SR-12-10-2013-8ACity Council Meeting: December 10, 2013
Agenda Item: — °A
To: Mayor and City Council
From: David Martin, Director of Planning and Community Development
Subject: Adoption of the 2013 -2021 Housing Element of the City's General Plan
and a Negative Declaration in Compliance with the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt the attached resolutions:
1. Adopting the Initial Study /Negative Declaration, prepared in compliance with the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), which concludes that the project
would not result in any significant impacts on the environment; and
2. Adopting the 2013 -2021 Housing Element as part of the City's General Plan.
Executive Summary
Pursuant to Council's direction on August 27 2013 and recommendation by the
Planning Commission on November 6, 2013, the 2013 -2021 draft Housing Element is
presented to the City Council for adoption. The Housing Element is a required
component of the City's General Plan, subject to the guidance of State law regarding its
content and review for certification by the California State Department of Housing and
Community Development (HCD).
The Housing Element update maintains the goals of the current (2008 -2014) Housing
Element, and the majority of its programs, which the City implements to promote high
quality, safe housing stock with continued maintenance and seismic upgrading, address
homelessness, protect tenants, and preserve, rehabilitate and develop housing that is
affordable for lower income households. Additionally, the draft Housing Element
implements the Land Use and Circulation Element (LUCE) objectives to protect existing
residential neighborhoods and provide for anticipated housing needs in mixed -use
districts near transit, services and other amenities. It includes additional programmatic
emphasis on housing needs of the growing senior population and those of persons with
disabilities to help them live more independently. This Housing Element also
acknowledges that the City must reset its course to fund future affordable housing
production following dissolution of the Redevelopment Agency. Nevertheless, the
Housing Element includes a quantitative objective of 1,371 units, approximately half of
which would be deed - restricted affordable units, and many of which are already in the
building permit process or under construction.
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Planning Commission and Council directions on the July 2013 Draft were incorporated
into the August 2013 Draft and a summary of these changes was provided to the
Council in an October 21 2013 Information Item. HCD received the revised August
2013 Draft Housing Element on September 3, 2013. On November 1, 2013, HCD sent
a letter affirming that the draft Housing Element meets all criteria for certification with
inclusion of several requested additions described in this report, and will be valid for an
eight year term if adopted within the State - required timeframe (by February 12, 2014).
An Initial Study was prepared pursuant to the requirements of the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), finding that adoption of the proposed 2013 -2021
Housing Element would not result in any significant impacts on the environment. No
comments were received during the 30 -day comment period, which concluded on
November 4, 2013.
At its November 6, 2013 meeting, the Planning Commission unanimously
recommended that the Council adopt the Negative Declaration and adopt the 2013-
2021 Housing Element, with one minor language adjustment to the terminology used in
reference to workforce housing.
Background
An inter - departmental working group headed by the Planning & Community
Development Department and including Housing & Economic Development, Community
& Cultural Services, Rent Control, the City Attorney's Office began preparation of Santa
Monica's Housing Element update in April 2012. During the first outreach phase of the
project between July and November 2012, staff gathered broad input at ten meetings of
boards, commissions and stakeholders, and received comments from interested
individuals and organizations. A Housing Element website was launched and has been
regularly updated throughout the planning process.
The first Housing Element Public Review Draft was released and posted on the Housing
Element web page in July 2013. On August 7 2013, the Planning Commission
reviewed the Draft and provided suggestions for Council's consideration at its Au ust
27, 2013 study session. Council considered the Commission's suggestions and
discussed issues including the RHNA allocation for Extremely Low Income units,
housing and services for seniors and persons with disabilities, and the City's
commitment to prioritizing retention and development of affordable housing.
Council's comments on the July Draft Housing Element and other community input were
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incorporated into the August 2013 draft submitted to HCD, and posted on the Housing
Element web page. The bullets below summarize the revisions, provided in full in the
October 21 2013 Information Item:
• Focused additions were made to six of the objectives to more explicitly
emphasize the City's commitment to affordability, senior needs, housing
diversity, neighborhood conservation, and tenant protection. These additions, for
instance, clarified the need for a variety of unit sizes and types, and put
additional emphasis on developing appropriate senior housing and services to
facilitate those choosing to live independently.
• The quantified objective for extremely low income housing was revised from 58
units to 83 units to reflect Council's discussion. This resulted in a new quantified
objective total of 1,371 units.
• Language proposed by the Westside Center for Independent Living (WCIL) was
added to the definition of "disability."
• A map (Figure A -1) showing the locations of areas included in the Suitable Sites
Inventory has been added to the Appendix.
• The Community Input section in the Introduction was revised to reflect the
Planning Commission and City Council reviews that took place in August.
During the City Council study session, the Los Angeles Foundation for Legal Aid
( LAFLA) brought up a number of concerns, which were carefully considered in revising
the Public Review Draft for submittal to HCD. Their concern regarding the proposed
Quantitative Objective for Extremely Low Income Units has been addressed as
discussed above. Another concern about the preservation of "at- risk" affordable units is
fully addressed both by City practices that help maintain these units as affordable and
by Objective 3.d.
LAFLA also expressed a concern that the Housing Element did not address potential
loss of existing lower rent apartments along transit corridors due to increased property
values. Staff assessed this issue and concluded that additional rental units, including
new deed - restricted affordable units, will almost exclusively replace existing commercial
or industrial uses, with minimal loss of existing housing stock. Properties on the
Suitable Sites Inventory (Appendix A) are located in mixed -use districts and currently
contain non - residential land uses. City policies will continue to focus on neighborhood
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conservation, providing incentives for mixed -use properties rather than adjacent
residential neighborhoods, including the Pico neighborhood where concerns were
particularly focused. No changes to the draft document were necessary to address this
comment.
Discussion
The State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) is required to
review a draft of the City's housing element before it is adopted for compliance with
State regulations governing the housing element process. The August 2013 Draft
Housing Element was sent to HCD on August 30, and also posted on that date to the
Housing Element website, with hard copies available at the City Hall Planning Counter
and all City library branches. `
HCD staff response to the Draft Housing Element was positive, citing the improved
format and readability, demonstration of public participation and incorporation of
comments received, and the innovative approach to housing policies within a transit -
oriented context. During the review period, HCD staff received three comment letters
on Santa Monica's draft Housing Element. HCD identified five items for which they
requested additional language to address State mandates, and these are included in
the proposed errata sheet (Attachment D). The following summarizes the revisions
HCD staff requested:
1. In the Housing Needs Assessment, include an estimate of the number of
housing units in the City that may be in need of rehabilitation. The proposed
estimate is based on a survey done by the City's Code Compliance Division in
2006 informed by their continuing field work. It is estimated that approximately
3,000 units may be in need of major upgrading, primarily due to plumbing,
insulation, heating and electrical obsolescence.
2. Add a footnote to Appendix B to specify that affordable units are protected
through deed - restrictions.
3. Add language to Appendix A (Suitable Sites Inventory) to indicate that there are
no known environmental constraints on identified properties that would preclude
housing development.
4. Under Objective 2.c, specify that the timeframe for considering new strategies
for obtaining State and Federal funding is at least annually, as well as ongoing.
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5. Under Objective 3.d, the preservation of at -risk units, add language to indicate
that the City will work with non - profit organizations, as necessary, to secure at-
risk units
HCD's November 1, 2013, letter (Attachment E) confirms that as revised, the Housing
Element meets qualifications for State certification once adopted. For the full eight -year
term of certification, the Housing Element must be adopted within 120 days of the
October 15, 2013, deadline set by the State (February 12, 2014).
Other revisions in Attachment D proposed for the final draft include updating the
Community Input section in Chapter 1 to reflect outreach since August, correction of
some minor errors, and the change in terminology regarding workforce housing
recommended by the Planning Commission, discussed below. None of these are
substantive changes.
Additional Outreach
Following release of the August 2013 draft, presentations were made to the Housing
Commission, Disabilities Commission, and the Commission for the Senior Community.
A discussion also took place in September at the North of Montana Association (NOMA)
monthly meeting at their request to discuss housing issues. Subsequent to the Planning
Commission recommendation hearing, a presentation was made on November 14th to
the Rent Control Board. Board members expressed concern regarding the continued
affordability of housing in the City and interest in being kept informed during the Zoning
Ordinance review process in regard to residential district standards. No additional
suggestions relative to Housing Element policies or content were made at these
meetings.
Planning Commission Recommendation
The Planning Commission reviewed the 2013 -2021 Housing Element at a public
hearing on November 6, 2013 and unanimously recommended that the Council adopt it
as an element of the General Plan, with revisions included in the staff report. They also
recommended adoption of the Negative Declaration prepared in compliance with the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). In making their recommendation, they
added one revision to the terminology used in regard to Workforce housing, defined as
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120% -180% of AMI, noting that "workforce' encompasses many households earning
less than 120% of AMI. The term "High- Moderate" income was suggested as a
substitute. Staff recommends a hybrid term of "Workforce (Higher- Moderate)."
Environmental Analysis
For the most part, the Housing Element does not propose substantive changes to the
City's adopted housing policies and programs, including those contained in the LUCE,
and does not propose any changes to standards in the Zoning Ordinance. Additionally,
the Housing Element provides for the continuation of policies and programs that were
adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element. Under CEQA, the continuation of
preexisting policies does not constitute a change to the existing environment. In
addition, there are some new policies and programs in the Housing Element (such as
Objective /Program 2.f, 2.G, and 5.a), that reflect policies and programs adopted in the
LUCE and emphasize the need to increase housing opportunities for seniors, disabled,
and the City's workforce. No changes in the environment would occur as a result of
these new policies and programs. Based on the above, the Initial Study /Negative
Declaration has concluded that adoption of the proposed 2013 -2021 Housing Element
would not result in significant impacts on the environment.
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In accordance with CEQA guidelines, the Notice of Intent to adopt the Negative
Declaration was published in the Santa Monica Daily Press on Friday, October 4, 2013,
and posted at the Los Angeles County Recorder and State Office of Planning and
Research. In addition, staff e- mailed the Notice of Determination to interested parties
and agencies on the City's mailing list. The 30 -day public comment period ended on
November 4, and no comments were received within that timeline. A response has
been provided to one letter that was received after close of comments.
Financial Impacts & Budget Actions
There is no immediate financial impact or budget action necessary as a result of the
recommended action.
Prepared by:
Elizabeth Bar-El, AICP, Senior Planner
Approved:
Forwarded to Council:
t�nj
David Martin, Director Rod Gould
Planning and Community Development City Manager
Attachments
A. Draft Resolution to adopt the Housing Element
B. Draft Resolution to adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration
C. Planning Commission recommendation resolution
D. Errata: Proposed Revisions to the August 2013 draft for adoption
E. HCD letter of compliance
F. Initial Study /Negative Declaration
G. Draft 2013 -2021 Housinq Element
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RESOLUTION NO. 013 -003 (PCS)
(Planning Commission Series)
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SANTA
MONICA RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE AN
AMENDMENT OF THE GENERAL PLAN TO ADOPT THE
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT
WHEREAS, in compliance with SMMC 9.04.20.18.080, on October 2, 2013,
the Planning Commission adopted a resolution of intention to consider
recommending to the City Council that it amend the General Plan in order to adopt
the 2013 -2021 Housing Element; and,
WHEREAS, the proposed 2013 -2021 Housing Element continues the goals,
policies and programs of the City to increase housing affordability to meet the
needs of lower income sectors of the community; provide options for those working
in Santa Monica; provide housing with services to resolve the highest priority cases
of homelessness; maintain high quality housing for the entire community, including
the growing proportion of seniors in the community; and is consistent with other City
policies including the Land Use & Circulation Element and other Elements of the
City's General Plan, the Sustainable City Plan, the Action Plan for Homelessness,
and the Consolidated Plan; and,
WHEREAS, prior to bringing the proposed Final Draft 2013 -2021 Housing
Element forward for adoption proceedings, the public was provided with numerous
opportunities to provide input on the City's housing needs and policies and to
comment on the Public Review Draft through availability of the document in hard
copy at the City Hall Planning Counter and all branches of the Santa Monica Public
Library and on -line at the City's website, a stakeholders meeting with
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representatives of community and housing advocacy organizations, and public
hearings of the City Council and several City boards and commissions including
the Housing Commission, Rent Control Board, and Planning Commission; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a public hearing on August 7,
2013, to consider the Public Review Draft Housing Element and made
recommendations to the City Council for consideration in its review of the
document; and,
WHEREAS, the City Council held a public hearing on August 27, 2013, to
consider the Public Review Draft, directing staff to make certain revisions and
submit the proposed Housing Element to the California State Department of
Housing and Community Development (HCD) for review; and,
WHEREAS, staff revised the Public Review Draft in accordance with City
Council recommendation; and submitted the revised August 2013 draft, which was
received by HCD for review on September 3, 2013, and,
WHEREAS, HCD staff has reviewed the August 2013 draft Housing Element
and requested five revisions, which are all included in the proposed errata sheet
and have been accepted by HCD staff as responsive to their concerns; and,
WHEREAS, a Notice of Intent to Adopt an Initial Study and Proposed
Negative Declaration for the 2013 -2021 Housing Element was published on
October 4, 2013, in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) and the City of Santa Monica CEQA Guidelines, providing a 30 -day
comment period that concluded on November 4, 2013; and,
PA
WHEREAS, the proposed amendment complies with SMMC
9.04.20.18.070, which limits the number of amendments to each mandatory
General Plan element to four times per calendar year,
NOW THEREFORE THE PLANNING C -
COMMISSION O(" THE CITY OF
SANTA MONICA DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The Planning Commission finds that it is necessary to amend
the City's General Plan Housing Element to comply with State legal requirements.
SECTION 2. The Planning Commission has reviewed and considered the
Initial Study and Proposed Negative Declaration and the August 2013 Draft 2013-
2021 Housing Element and proposed revisions thereto and recommends adoption
of the Negative Declaration and 2013 -2021 Housing Element as revised, and
incorporating the Planning Commission's additional recommendations, and
respectfully submits this recommendation to the City Council.
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
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Adopted and approved this 6th day of November, 2013.
Chip Cori
I hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 13 -003 was duly and
regularly introduced and approved at a meeting of the Planning Commission on
the 6th day of November, 2013 by the following vote:
Ayes:, Himmelra.ch, Kennedy, McKinnon, Newbold, Parry, Ries
Noes: None.
Abstain: None.
Absent:
ATTEST:
.a �J� I
DAVID MARTIN
Planning and Community Development Director
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Attachment D
Errata: Proposed Revisions to the August 2013 draft for adoption
1. Under Objective 2.c (in both Chapter 2 and the Executive Summary): the timeframe will be
revised to state as follows:
Timeframe: 2013: Consideration of New Impact Fees; strategy development will be considered
at least annually and ongoing
2. Under Objective 2.g (in both Chapter 2 and the Executive Summary), revise the Program
language to read:
Explore the development of housing that is affordable to the City's workforce, including rental,
ownership, and forms of employer - provided transitional housing. Consider the workforce as a
span of affordability levels including those levels defined in the Affordable Housing Production
Pram and an additional laver of "Workforce /High- Moderate Income" with "VVGFk�me
Housing- defined as between 120% and 180% of the County Area Median Income (AMI). In
addition to the Affordable Housing Production Program, prioritize incentives to develop
werkfnree Workforce /High- Moderate Income housing units, with particular emphasis on housing
for larger households in need of units with two or more bedrooms.
Possible parameters of the program are as follows
Provide regulatory development incentives, particularly in locations with proximity to transit,
in the Zoning Ordinance or in specific and area plans to encourage inclusion of units
affordable to households defined as moderate income or "workforce /high- moderate Income."
Incorporate incentives such as:
- Floor- area -ratio (FAR) calculation based on reduced floor area for square footage in
moderate or moderate and workforce /high- moderate Income units in projects that also
provide on -site affordable housing in compliance with the AHPP.
- Expedited processing of projects that provide housing units guaranteed through deed
restrictions or other means to be maintained at rent levels affordable to moderate or
workforce /high- moderate Income households as defined above.
- Flexibility with open space requirements, such as substituting or partially substituting
common for private open space.
Encourage workforce /high- moderate Income housing as a community benefit that
supplements but does not replace the provision of deed - restricted affordable housing
Revise the term Workforce to Workforce /High- Moderate Income as appropriate throughout the
document.
3. Under Objective 3.d (in both Chapter 2 and the Executive Summary): the timeframe will be
revised to state as follows:
Annually: staff will identify funds and work with non - profits as necessary to secure at -risk units,
where appropriate and as feasible; Ongoing: Monitoring
4. Under Objective 4.b., the responsible agency (Column 4) will be revised as follows:
Building & Safety DWis�, Code Compliance Division; Housing Division
5. In Introduction, under E. Public Participation (page 18), the first section (1. Community input)
will be revised to read as follows:
1. Community Input
Table 1 -1 lists the meetings at which opportunities for public and agency input on the Housing
Element were provided. The two phases of public outreach conducted to get community input for
the Plan included:
• A project website documenting project progress in regard to public outreach, draft documents,
the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA), and relevant links. (http: / /www.smgov.net/
housingelement)
• "Gathering Input for the Plan" presentations to City boards and commissions in July and August
2012. Three additional meetings targeted toward a variety of stakeholders were held in the fall.
• The stakeholders' roundtable meeting brought together 23 affordable housing producers and
advocates with particular knowledge and experience in housing issues. Participants included:
- Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles
- Community Corporation of Santa Monica (CCSM)
- Ocean Park Community Center (OPCC)
- California Housing Partnership Corporation
- Santa Monica Renters Rights
- Westside Regional Center
- Santa Monica Commissioners: Housing, Planning, Rent Control
- Private architects, for - profit and non - profit housing developers
• Presentations of the August 2013 Draft, which took place between September and November
2013, highlighting the proposed updates to the Housing Element for Commissions Boards and
neighborhood groups as requested. The meetings did not yield any specific recommendations to
revise the document.
• A Notice of Intention to Adopt a Negative Declaration was published on October 4 2013 and a
30 -day comment period was provided prior to consideration of adoption of the Housinq Element.
The first public draft was released in July 2013. The Planning Commission held a public hearing on
August 7, 2013, followed by the City Council on August 27, 2013. Comments and direction provided
at these meetings have been were incorporated into this the August 2013 draft, which was reviewed
by the State of California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD). HCD
received three letters from the Santa Monica public and reviewed and addressed their concerns
during their review.
All City meetings are open to the public. The City provides the public with advance notice of the
public hearing and makes hard copies of all related materials available for public review at City
Hall and all City library branches as soon as the notice is published. Notice of public hearings is
published in the Santa Monica Daily Press at least 10 days prior to the hearing date.
Following each meeting held during the initial phase of the community outreach effort,
comments were summarized and posted on the project webpage. Table 1 -2 summarizes these
comments by topics and indicates where issues have been addressed in this document.
Individual meeting summaries can be found in Appendix D.
Table 1 -1 City Board and Commission and other Outreach Meetings
Meeting
Date (s)
Commission for the Senior
Community
7/10/12,
10/16/13
Planning Commission
7/25/12,
8/7/13,
11/6/13
Disabilities Commission
8/6/12,
9/9/13
Commission on the Status of Women
8/8/12
Rent Control Board
8115/12,
11/14/13
Social Services Commission
8/27/12
Housing Commission
9120/12,
9/19/13
Stakeholders Roundtable
9/19/12
Chamber and Land Use Committee
10/25/12
Neighborhood Councils - Monthly
Meeting
11/17/12
North of Montana Association (NOMA)
9 -12/13
Note, The rinnl News nn Clemept-. ill
Table 4 1
updat
, 66 Add bong' nid.nnnh n r to adeptinn
(Table 1 -2 will remain unchanged)
6. In Introduction (page 20), Sub - section 3 (Next Steps) will be removed in its entirety.
7. In Housing Needs Assessment (page 72), add the following language after the last
paragraph:
Also in 2006. the City's Code Compliance Division conducted a windshield survey. notina the
exterior condition of all residential rental buildings in the City. They also examined the Code
Compliance cases generated by resident complaints to understand the issues most commonly
reported, and whether the conditions alleged were confirmed. Based on the information
gathered, it is estimated that approximately 10% of the City's rental stock (about 3,000 units)
are in structures that may be in need of major repair /rehabilitation. The main issues in these
structures in order of prevalence, relate to obsolete plumbing systems, electrical upgrades and
provision of HVAC systems. Additionally, there are units with windows, such as louvered
windows, that do not comply with current Code requirements for insulation and should be
replaced. Code Compliance staff has not identified any residential structures with conditions
that would indicate the need to demolish and replace the building.
8. The following statement will be added to Appendix A (Suitable Sites Inventory) (page 166)
At this time, the City is not aware of any environmental constraints that would preclude housing
development on any of the properties listed after proper remediation is completed as necessary.
9. In Appendix B. (Permitted Projects Anticipated to Complete After 1/1/2014) (p.172) —Add
the following note at the bottom of the table:
All affordable units are deed - restricted based on AHPP obligations or public subsidy conditions
for 100% affordable projects.
Any typos and spelling errors found during the final production of the 2013 -2021 Housing
Element shall be corrected, ensuring no change of context or meaning.
CI
STATE OF CALIFORNIA - BUSINESS CONSI IMER SERVICES AND HOUSING AGENCY EDMUND G BRQWN .IR.. Govamor
DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
DIVISION OF HOUSING POLICY DEVELOPMENT
2020 W. El Camino Avenue, Suite 500°
Sacramento, CA 95833 ~'� `'� -
(916) 263-29111 FAX (916) 263.7453
www.hcd_ca.gov
November 1, 2013
Mr. David Martin, Director
Planning & Community Development Department
City of Santa Monica
1685 Main Street, Room 212
Santa Monica, CA 90407
Dear Mr. Martin:
RE: Review of the City of Santa Monica's 5th Cycle (2013 -2021) Draft Housing
Element
Thank you for submitting the City of Santa Monica's draft housing element update received
for review on September 3, 2013 along with revisions received on October 16 and 21,
2013. Pursuant to Government Code (GC) Section 65585(b), the Department is reporting
the results of its review. Communications with Elizabeth Bar-El, Senior Planner, facilitated
the review. In addition, the Department considered comments from Denise Barton,
Mathew Millen and Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles pursuant to GC Section 65585(c).
The draft element meets the statutory requirements of State housing element law. The
element will comply with State housing element law (GC, Article 10.6) when adopted and
submitted to the Department, pursuant to GC Section 65585(g).
To remain on an eight year planning cycle, pursuant to Senate Bill 375 (Chapter 728,
Statutes of 2008) the City must adopt its housing element within 120 calendar days from
the statutory due date of October 15, 2013 for SCAG localities. If adopted after this date,
the City will be required to revise the housing element every four years until adopting at
least two consecutive revisions by the statutory deadline (GC Section 65588(e)(4)). For
more information on housing element adoption requirements, please visit our website at:
http: / /www.hcd.ca.gov /hpd /hrc /plan /he /he review adoptionsteps110812.r)df.
Public participation in the development, adoption and implementation of the housing
element is essential to effective housing planning. Throughout the housing element
process, the City must continue to engage the community, including organizations that
represent lower- income and special needs households, by making information regularly
available and considering and incorporating comments where appropriate. For example,
the Department received comments from Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles ( LAFLA)
regarding a variety of issues under housing element law. The City should continue to
engage the community and LAFLA to address those issues as part of the adoption and
implementation of the housing element.
Mr. David Martin, Director
Page 2
The Department is pleased to inform the City that 4`" cycle housing element compliance
meets one of the threshold requirements of the Housing Related Parks (HRP) Program
which rewards local governments for approving housing affordable to lower- income
households. The HRP Program, funded by Proposition 1 C, provides grant funds to
eligible local governments for every qualifying unit permitted since 2010. Grant awards
can be used to fund park - related capital asset projects. The HRP Program 2013 Notice of
Funding Availability (NOFA), released October 3, 2013, announced the availability of $25
million in grant funds to eligible applicants. Applications are due January 22, 2014. More
information about the HRP Program is on the Department's website at
http://www,hcd.ca.gov/hpd/hrpp/.
The Department appreciates the hard work and dedication of Ms. Bar-El provided in
preparation of the housing element and looks forward to receiving Santa Monica's adopted
housing element. If you have any questions or need additional technical assistance,
please contact Paul McDougall, of our staff, at (916) 263 -7420.
Sincerely,
Alenlpora
Assistant Deputy Director
Cc: Liz Bar-El, City of Santa Monica, Planning & Community Development Department
x�
City of
Santa Monica
City of Santa Monica
2013 -2021 Dousing Element
Initial Study /Negative Declaration
October 2013
City of Santa Monica
Planning and Community Development Department
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
INTRODUCTION
This document is an Initial Study to evaluate the potential environmental effects of the proposed
2013 -2021 Housing Element (herein referenced as the "Project" or "Housing Element "). This
document has been prepared in accordance with the relevant provisions of the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) of 1970 (as amended) and the State CEQA Guidelines as
implemented by the City of Santa Monica. The 2013 -2021 Housing Element is a project subject to
the guidelines and regulations of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). This Initial
Study /Negative Declaration evaluates the potential direct, indirect, and cumulative
environmental effects associated with the Project, as proposed.
The Housing Element sets forth the City's Goals, Objectives, and Policies concerning housing and
housing - related services and the City's approach to addressing its share of the regional housing
need. The Project is described in detail in Section 2.3, Project Characteristics.
BACKGROUND
The Council adopted the City of Santa Monica's 2008 -2014 Housing Element in November 2008
and it was certified by the State in January 2009. Although there is still more than one year left in
the planning cycle, the State legislature advanced the next housing element period (October
10, 2013 through June 2021) in order to coincide with the timing for developing the region's long
range transportation plan, the Regional Transportation Plan /Sustainable Communities Strategy
(RTP /SCS). The RTP /SCS links regional land use with transportation investments throughout
Southern California to address challenges of climate change, livability and mobility. The RTP /SCS
that SCAG adopted on April 4, 2012 met the State requirements to show how its programs and
projects would reduce greenhouse gas emissions and climate change potential through
integrated land use and transportation planning. SCAG followed up by adopting the Regional
Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) on October 4, 2012, based on the data input for the RTP /SCS.
The RHNA was certified by HCD on November 26, 2012. State law requires that jurisdictions adopt
their new Housing Elements within 12 months of SCAG's RHNA adoption, with a grace period of
120 days.
Public Outreach, Planning Commission, and City Council Review
The first outreach phase for developing the Housing Element took place between July and
November 2012, consisting of presentations on State housing element requirements, emerging
data trends, the RHNA and the City's preparation schedule. Presentations were made to a
number of City commissions and boards as well as other community stakeholders. These
included:
• Commission for the Senior Community
• Planning Commission
• Disabilities Commission
• Commission on the Status of Women
• Rent Control
• Social Services Commission
• Housing Commission
• Stakeholders Roundtable
• Chamber Land Use Committee
• Neighborhood Councils Monthly Meeting
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 1 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
Public input was incorporated into the draft Housing Element, which was released for public
review in July 2013. On August 7, 2013, the Planning Commission held a discussion and provided
comments on the draft. On August 27, 2013, the Council held a study session and also provided
comments. The August 2013 draft Housing Element, currently being reviewed by HCD,
incorporated comments received in these discussions.
The Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA)
A core component of the Housing Element is a response to the requirements of the Regional
Housing Allocation contained in the RHNA, a State - mandated process that determines the
amount of future housing growth for which each city and county must plan in order to be
prepared to accommodate a fair share of statewide population change.
The RHNA process begins with the California Department of Housing and Community
Development's (HCD) projection of future statewide housing need, and apportionment of this
need to regional councils of government throughout the state. SCAG is the regional council for
the counties of Los Angeles, Orange, Imperial, Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura and
allocates a share of affordable housing to each county and city within its region. For the 2014-
2021 RHNA period, applicable to this Housing Element, the City of Santa Monica was assigned
an allocation of 1,674 units. This allocation is more than 250% higher than the 2008 -2014 RHNA
allocation of 662 units. Of the 1,674 units, the RHNA specifies that 974 (58 %) are to be affordable
units targeted to households meeting defined criteria for incomes ranging from extremely low
through moderate.
The Housing Element is required to identify a sufficient number of sites with appropriate zoning
and market potential to accommodate the construction of the allocated number of housing
units in the jurisdiction. Jurisdictions are not required to actually construct all units to comply with
the RHNA, but must identify "suitable sites" and demonstrate feasibility for building housing in
these locations for all economic segments of the community. The tool that is used to meet this
requirement is known as the "Suitable Sites Inventory" (See Housing Element Appendix B). The
Housing Element demonstrates that the City has suitable sites to meet its RHNA target without
changes to existing land use regulations. State Housing Element law recognizes that the RHNA
may exceed available resources and the community's ability to satisfy this need. Consequently,
a city may establish a lower quantified objective for housing units by income category, including
extremely low income, to be constructed, rehabilitated, and conserved over the period of the
element. The 2013 -2021 Housing Element's quantified objective is 1,371 units divided into
specified income categories.
Housing Element and the LUCE
The Housing Element incorporates a complete list of the adopted housing policies in the 2010
Land Use and Circulation Element (LUCE). The Housing Element provides for the protection of
existing housing and supports diverse housing opportunities, including affordable and workforce
housing. The LUCE created a framework to integrate housing with existing and future transit
investment. The anticipated completion of the Exposition Light Rail line by 2015, including three
Santa Monica stations, creates opportunities for developing affordable and market rate housing
within walking distance of transit while encouraging the conservation of existing residential
neighborhoods. Specifically, the LUCE preserves 96% of the City with growth concentrated in
only 4% of the City's land area. The Housing Element relies upon LUCE strategies to support a
mixed -use Downtown, create new housing near the stations in former industrial areas adjacent
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
- •-• Page 2 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
to Bergamot Station and Memorial Park, and encourage housing as a priority on high- capacity
transit corridors, such as Wilshire Boulevard. Additionally, consistent with the LUCE and the 2008-
2014 Housing Element, the Housing Element emphasizes income - restricted affordable housing in
transit - oriented districts because living near public transit can reduce household transportation
costs and increase mobility, as well as contribute to the City's goal of no net new PM peak hour
trips.
PURPOSE AND LEGAL AUTHORITY
In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code Section
21000, et. Seq.) and the 2013 State CEQA Guidelines, the City of Santa Monica as lead agency is
required to undertake the preparation of an Initial Study to determine whether the Project would
have a significant environmental impact.
If, as a result of the Initial Study, the lead agency finds that there is evidence that any aspect of
the Project may cause a significant environmental effect, the lead agency shall further find that
an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) is warranted to analyze Project - related and cumulative
environmental impacts. Alternatively, if the lead agency finds that there is no evidence that the
Project, either as proposed or as modified to include the mitigation measures identified in the
Initial Study, may cause a significant effect on the environment, the lead agency shall find that
the Project would not have a significant effect on the environment and shall prepare a negative
declaration or mitigated negative declaration for the Project. Such determination can be made
only if "there is no substantial evidence, in light of the whole record before the lead agency"
that such an effect may occur (Section 21080(c), Public Resources Code).
The City of Santa Monica has prepared this Initial Study /Negative Declaration to evaluate the
potential environmental effects of the 2013 -2021 Housing Element. For the most part, the
Housing Element does not propose substantive changes to the City's adopted housing policies
and programs, including those contained in the LUCE, and does not propose any changes to
standards in the Zoning Ordinance. Additionally, the Housing Element provides for the
continuation of policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Under CEQA, the continuation of preexisting policies do not constitute changes to the existing
environment (See Black Property Owners Association v. City of Berkeley (1994) 22 Cal. App. 4th
974). In addition, there are some new policies and programs in the Housing Element (such as
Objective /Program 2.f, 2.G, and 5.a), that are reflective of policies and programs adopted in
the LUCE and emphasize the need to increase housing opportunities for seniors, disabled, and
the City's workforce. No changes in the environment would occur as a result of these new
policies and programs. Based on the above, the Initial Study /Negative Declaration has
concluded that adoption of the proposed 2013 -2021 Housing Element would not result in
significant impacts on the environment.
This IS /ND, which is ultimately required to be adopted by the City Council in accordance with
CEQA, is intended as an informational document. Should future residential development require
discretionary action by the City of Santa Monica, project -level CEQA review will be required to
determine project- specific impacts. Evaluation of future project -level impacts would be too
speculative to include in this IS /ND (see CEQA Guidelines Section 15145).
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
This IS /ND incorporates, by reference, the City's previously certified Program Environmental
Impact Report [EIR] (June 2010) prepared for the Land Use and Circulation Element (LUCE)
pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15150. As discussed in Section 15150 of the CEQA
0 City of Santa Monica
October 2013
• Page 3 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY/NEGATIVE DECLARATION
Guidelines, "an EIR or negative declaration may incorporate by reference all or portion of
another document which is a matter of public record or is generally available to the public....
Incorporation by reference is most appropriate for including long, descriptive, or technical
materials that provide general background but do not contribute directly to the analysis of the
problem at hand." The LUCE EIR is available for review at the City of Santa Monica City Hall,
located at 1685 Main Street in Santa Monica.
® City of Santa Monica Land Use and Circulation Element (LUCE) Program Environmental
Impact Report (EIR), April 2010, State Clearinghouse No. 2009041117
0� City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 4 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
CITY OF SANTA MONICA
INITIAL STUDY
AND NEGATIVE DECLARATION
1. Project title:
City of Santa Monica 2013 -2021 Housing Element
2. Lead agency name and address:
City of Santa Monica
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90407
3. Contact person and phone number:
Elizabeth Bar-El, AICP, Senior Planner
(310) 458 -8341
4. Project location:
Citywide
The City of Santa Monica is an urban community located in west Los Angeles County,
approximately 20 miles west of downtown Los Angeles. The City is bounded on the north,
south, and east by the City of Los Angeles, and on the west by the Pacific Ocean.
S. Project applicant /sponsor's name and address:
City of Santa Monica, Strategic and Transportation Planning Division
6. General plan designation:
Various
7. Zoning:
Various
8. Description of project:
The 2013 -2021 Housing Element is an element of the General Plan that provides guidance to
plan for broad -based long -range housing needs. The 2013 -2021 Housing Element is essentially
an update of the 2008 -2014 Housing Element that retains the same goals that guide the
City's commitment to high quality housing for a diverse community, with an emphasis on
efforts to produce affordable housing units and retain affordability and access to housing for
households at all income levels. The 2013 -2021 Housing Element has been developed to
meet California State legal requirements and is subject to review and certification by the
State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD).
The Housing Element contains six chapters as follows:
0, City of Santa Monica
October 2013
�. ;....... Page 5 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
1. Introduction: This chapter provides the State and local context for the document and
summaries of the community outreach process and research methods and sources.
2. Housing Plan: This chapter sets forth the goals, objectives and programs, highlighting some
of the most significant goals, including the quantified objectives for housing production and
rehabilitation, and the City's broad range of services that support the City's long -term
commitment to making housing policy a priority.
3. Housinq Needs Assessment: This chapter provides demographic and housing data that
describe the characteristics and needs of the community and form the basis for analysis in
the document.
4. Potential Constraints on Housinq: This chapter presents the State - required analysis of
governmental and non - governmental constraints to housing production and conservation.
5. Housing Resources: This chapter analyzes available resources for building and subsidizing
housing and presents the required suitable sites analysis.
6. Review of Past Performance: This chapter reviews the City's implementation of the
programs included in the current 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
The Housing Element includes four appendices: (A) the Suitable Sites Inventory; (B) a list of
permitted projects in process; (C) a complete list of housing - related goals in the LUCE and
(D) meeting summary notes from the Housing Element public outreach process.
9. Existing land uses in the City:
Almost all of the land in the City of Santa Monica is developed with established residential
neighborhoods, commercial corridors, mixed -use districts, light industrial and creative office
uses, a civic center, parks, schools and other community- serving facilities, public services,
and utilities.
10. Approval required (e.g., permits, financing approval, or participation agreement.)
® Adoption of Negative Declaration (City of Santa Monica City Council)
® Adoption of Housing Element
® Approval of Housing Element from the California Department of Housing and Community
Development (HCD)
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
........ Page 6 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED:
The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project as
indicated by the checklist on the following pages.
❑
Aesthetics
❑
Agriculture and Forestry
Resources
❑
Air Quality
❑
Biological Resources
❑
Construction Effects
❑
Cultural Resources
❑
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
❑
Geology /Soils
❑
Hazards & Hazardous
Materials
❑
Hydrology /Water Quality
❑
Land Use /Planning
❑
Mineral Resources
❑
Neighborhood Effects
❑
Noise
❑
Population/ Housing
❑
Public Services
❑
Recreation
❑
Shadows
❑
Transportation /Traffic
❑
Utilities /Service Systems
❑
Mandatory Findings of
Significance
e City of Santa Monica
October 2013
:r^ Page 7 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
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.
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 proponent. A MITIGATED
NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
❑ 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 2) 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) its effects are less than or equal to the effects disclosed in the
earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, nothing further is required.
l0 3
Fr cie tef I Date
St' to a Transportation Planning Manager
a� City of Santa Monica
October 2013
• ..... Page 8 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
-
!Less Than i
-
-
Significant
Significant
- -
and
Impactwith
Less Than
-
Unavoidable
':Mitigation
Significant
-
-
Impact
Incorporated
Impact
No Impact
I. AESTHETICS /VISUAL RESOURCES. Would the project:
a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a
El
El
El
Z
scenic vista?
No Impact. Major scenic vistas in the City are those associated with the beach, the bay, the Pier,
and the bluffs. As stated in the Program EIR (pg. 4.1 -59), the City's LUCE includes policies
intended to preserve public view corridors, including western views of the ocean from east -west
streets and boulevards, public views of the ocean and the Pier from Palisades Park, and public
views from the Pier to the City. The Housing Element is a policy document that addresses housing
need in the City; no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part
of the Housing Element. Therefore, adoption of the Housing Element, in itself, would not result in
physical impacts on scenic vistas.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the Housing Element would not create new
impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.1 -59).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. The LUCE EIR acknowledged that, on certain project sites, future new land
uses within existing standards may result in taller structures than currently exist. However, existing
Santa Monica Municipal Code requirements and development standards, together with
applicable goals and policies of the Conservation Element and Local Coastal Program Land Use
Plan, help to protect scenic vistas throughout the City. Furthermore, in compliance with CEQA,
any potential impacts to scenic vistas of any specific future residential project would be
analyzed at the time of their proposal. Therefore, no impact on scenic vistas would occur.
b) Substantially damage scenic resources,
including, but not limited to, trees, rock
outcroppings, and historic buildings El El El E
within a state scenic highway?
No Impact. There are no State - designated scenic highways in the City of Santa Monica. The
Housing Element is a General Plan policy document that addresses housing need in the City; no
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
u•• *-•- Page 9 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part of the Housing
Element. Therefore, adoption of the Housing Element would not damage scenic resources.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the Housing Element would not create new
impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE FIR (pg. 4.1 -58).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. Future land uses in the City would comply with the existing standards set
forth in the City's Municipal Code, as well as applicable LUCE policies protecting scenic
resources. Furthermore, in compliance with CEQA, any potential impacts to scenic resources of
any specific future residential project would be. analyzed at the time of their proposal.
Therefore, no impact on scenic resources would occur.
c) Substantially degrade the existing
visual character or quality of the site ❑ El El
and its surroundings?
No Impact. The General Plan Housing Element is a policy document that addresses housing
need in the City; no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part
of the Housing Element. Therefore, no changes in the visual character would result from
adoption of the Housing Element.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the Housing Element would not create new
impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.1 -60).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. New future residential projects would be subject to design review by the
City's Architectural Review Board to ensure high quality design as required by Chapter 9.32 of
the Santa Monica Municipal Code (SMMC). Furthermore, in compliance with CEQA, any
potential impacts on visual character of any specific future residential project would be
analyzed at the time of their proposal and would be required to comply with the City's
Municipal Code, as well as applicable policies set forth in the City's LUCE. Therefore, no impact
related to visual character would occur as a result of the Housing Element.
�y.. City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 10 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
d) Create a new source of substantial
light or glare that would adversely El El El affect day or nighttime views in the
area?
No Impact. The City is primarily built -out, and a significant amount of ambient light from urban
uses already exists. The Housing Element is a General Plan policy document that addresses
housing need in the City; no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed
as part of the Housing Element. Consequently, the Housing Element would not create a new
source of substantial light or glare.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the Housing Element would not create new
impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.1 -62).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. As stated in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4- 1 -62), new housing development would
generally occur as infill of vacant or underutilized parcels within already built -out areas of the
City. Thus, the majority of land use changes would be located in areas that already experience
existing light sources. In addition, design review by the City's Architectural Review Board would
include the evaluation of new lighting and glare sources. Furthermore, in compliance with
CEQA, any potential impacts related to light and glare of any specific future residential projects
would be analyzed at the time of their proposal. Therefore, no impact related to light and glare
would occur as a result of the Housing Element.
-_
:Less Than
Significant
Significant .-
-
-
_
and
Impact with -_
Less Than
-
-
Unavoidable
Mitigation -
Significant-
Impact-
Incorporated=
Impact
No Impact
e) Create a new source of shade or
shadow that would adversely affect
❑
❑
❑
sensitive structures or uses?
No Impact. The Housing Element is a General Plan policy document that addresses housing
need in the City; no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part
of the Housing Element. Consequently, the Housing Element would not result in physical
changes in the environment that could produce new shade shadow impacts.
o City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 11 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Adopting the Housing Element would not create new impacts or
increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.1 -63).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element would accommodate new
housing to address the City's RHNA allocation. As stated in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.1 -63), it is possible
that buildings could cast shadows onto nearby shadow - sensitive land uses such as residential
uses or open space. However, the goals and policies provided in the LUCE encourage and
require the preservation and enhancement of the distinct visual characters of the City's
individual neighborhoods and districts. Furthermore, in compliance with CEQA, any potential
impacts related to shading of any specific future residential projects would be analyzed at the
time of their proposal. Therefore, no impact related to shade /shadow would occur as a result of
the Housing Element.
-
-less Than =.
-
- - -
Significant
_
Significant,_
-
and
Impact with '•
Less Than
=
_ -
Unavoidable
- Mitigation +
Significant
-
Impact
Incorporated.
impact
No Impact
II. AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY RESOURCES. 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?
b) Conflict with existing zoning for
agricultural use, or a Williamson Act
❑
❑
❑
contract?
c) Conflict with existing zoning for, or
cause rezoning of, forest land (as
defined in Public Resources Code
section 12220(g)), timberland (as
❑
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El
defined by Public Resources Code
section 4526), or timberland zoned
Timberland Production (as defined by
Government Code section 51104(g))?
d) Result in the loss of forest land or
conversion of forest land to non - forest
❑
❑
❑
use?
e) Involve other changes in the existing
environment which, due to their
location or nature, could result in
❑
❑
❑
conversion of Farmland to non-
agricultural use or non - forest uses?
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 12 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
No Impact. There are no agricultural uses /land or forest land in the City of Santa Monica. The
City is fully developed with urban uses and is not utilized or zoned for agricultural or forestry
resources. Consequently, the Housing Element would not convert farmland to non - agricultural
uses. The Housing Element is a General Plan policy document that addresses housing need in the
City; no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part of the
Housing Element. Adopting the Housing Element would not create new impacts or increase the
significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, no impact on agricultural resources or forestry resources
would occur.
III. AIR QUALITY. Would the project:
a) Conflict with or obstruct
implementation of the applicable air
❑
❑
❑
quality plan?
b) Violate any air quality standard or
contribute substantially to an existing or
❑
❑
❑
projected air quality violation?
c) Result in a cumulatively considerable
net increase of any criteria pollutant for
which the project region is in non -
attainment under an applicable
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federal or state ambient air quality
standard (including releasing emissions
that exceed quantitative thresholds for
ozone precursors)?
No Impact. A project would not conflict with an applicable air quality plan if its population
and /or employment growth are consistent with the growth estimates in the Air Quality
Management Plan (AQMP). The AQMP growth projections is based on growth projections
adopted by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), which in turn, relies
upon cities' adopted general plan growth projections. Consequently, a project that complies
with the City's LUCE is considered to be in compliance with the AQMP. As previously stated, the
Housing Element is a General Plan policy document that addresses housing need in the City; no
actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part of the Housing
Element. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, result in air pollutant emissions.
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 13 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Adopting the Housing Element would not create new impacts or
increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.2 -16).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. Future residential development anticipated under the Housing Element
would generate pollutant emissions due to new vehicle trips, stationary sources (e.g., use of
natural gas and electricity for heating, cooling, and lighting of residential units), and use of
construction equipment. However, because the 2013 -2021 Housing Element would not change
the standards for residential uses within the LUCE, the level of emissions associated with
residential development under the Housing Element has been analyzed within the LUCE EIR.
Additionally, the Housing Element would further the air quality reduction goals of the LUCE by
supporting new housing near transit while protecting existing residential neighborhoods.
Furthermore, in compliance with CEQA, any potential impacts related to the AQMP and air
quality of any specific future residential projects would be analyzed at the time of their proposal.
Therefore, the 2013 -2021 Housing Element would not conflict with the AQMP and would not
violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality
violation. No impact would occur.
d) Expose sensitive receptors to ❑ ❑ ❑
substantial pollutant concentrations?
e) Create objectionable odors affecting ❑ ❑ ❑
a substantial number of people?
No Impact. As previously stated, the Housing Element is a General Plan policy document that
addresses housing need in the City; no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land
is proposed as part of the Housing Element. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, expose
sensitive receptors to pollutants or create odors.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element Update contains policies encouraging
housing in transit -rich areas in order to reduce vehicle trips and associated air quality impacts.
The Housing Element policies are consistent with current LUCE policies as they relate to the
identification of potential sites for housing. The Housing Element also provides for the
continuation of the preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014
Housing Element. Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have
any potential to affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the Housing Element would not
create new impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE FIR (pg. 4.2-
20).
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
_,.. Page 14 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. In compliance with CEQA, any potential impacts related to the siting of any
specific future residential projects near substantial pollutant concentrations or odor sources
would be analyzed at the time of their proposal. Therefore, the 2013 -2021 Housing Element
would not expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations or create
objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people. No impact would occur.
-
less Than
-
_
_ -
Significant
Significant
-
-
and
Impact with '-
Less Than
Unavoidable
- Mitigation -
Significant
Impact
Incorporated
Impact
No Impact
IV. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES. Would the project:
a) Have a substantial adverse effect,
either directly or through habitat
modifications, on any species identified
as a candidate, sensitive, or special
11
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status species in local or regional plans,
policies, or regulations, or by the
California Department of Fish and
Game or US Fish and Wildlife Service?
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?
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,
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marsh, vernal pool, coastal wetlands,
etc.), through direct removal, filling,
hydrological interruption or other
means?
d) Interfere substantially with the
movement of any native resident or
migratory fish or wildlife species or with
❑
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El
established native resident or migratory
wildlife corridors, or impede the use of
native wildlife nursery sites?
v _ City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page IS of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
e) Conflict with the provisions of an
adopted Habitat Conservation Plan,
Natural Community Conservation Plan, ❑ ❑ ❑
or other approved local, regional or
state habitat conservation plan?
No Impact. The LUCE EIR (pg. 4.3 -20) determined that there are no riparian or sensitive habitats
known to occur in the City of Santa Monica. The City has little undisturbed native vegetation. In
addition, there are no blueline streams or wetland habitat. The City is not recognized as an
existing or proposed, or Significant Ecological Area (SEA) that links wildlife populations. No
habitat conservation plans, natural community conservation plans, or other approved local,
regional, or state habitat conservation plans apply to the City. Consequently, the Housing
Element would not affect any sensitive habitats or sensitive species, wetlands, or SEA. No impact
on sensitive habitats, wildlife population, wetlands, migratory wildlife, and habitat conservation
areas would occur.
No Impact. As previously stated, the General Plan Housing Element is a policy document that
addresses housing need in the City; no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is
proposed as part of the Housing Element. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, result in
impacts on biological resources.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing- related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the Housing Element Update would not create new
impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.3 -24).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. Federal, state, regional, and local policies and regulations related to the
protection of important biological resources include: Federal Endangered Species Act, Federal
Migratory Bird Treaty Act, California Endangered Species Act, California Fish and Game Code,
and the City of Santa Monica's Urban Forest Master Plan (UFMP) and Tree Code. As stated in the
LUCE EIR (pg. 4.3 -22), the types of development that would occur in the City would largely
consist of redevelopment and would not extend the boundaries of the City into previously
o City of Santa Monica
October 2013
„.... Page 16 of 49
less Than-
- -_
-_
Significant
Significant
and
Impact with
less Than
-
Unavoidable
Mitigation
Significant
-
_
- Impact
-
Incorporated
Impact
No impact -
f) Conflict with any local
policies or
ordinances protecting
biological
❑
❑
❑
resources, such as a tree
preservation
policy or ordinance?
No Impact. As previously stated, the General Plan Housing Element is a policy document that
addresses housing need in the City; no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is
proposed as part of the Housing Element. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, result in
impacts on biological resources.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing- related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the Housing Element Update would not create new
impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.3 -24).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. Federal, state, regional, and local policies and regulations related to the
protection of important biological resources include: Federal Endangered Species Act, Federal
Migratory Bird Treaty Act, California Endangered Species Act, California Fish and Game Code,
and the City of Santa Monica's Urban Forest Master Plan (UFMP) and Tree Code. As stated in the
LUCE EIR (pg. 4.3 -22), the types of development that would occur in the City would largely
consist of redevelopment and would not extend the boundaries of the City into previously
o City of Santa Monica
October 2013
„.... Page 16 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
undisturbed areas. As a result, potential impacts to the habitat and range of known sensitive
species in the area are not anticipated. Furthermore, all new residential development would be
required to be consistent with the General Plan and /or current zoning designations. New
projects would also be required to adhere to the UFMP and Tree Code requirements as well as
existing LUCE policies that protect /enhance the urban forest. Furthermore, in compliance with
CEQA, any potential impacts on biological resources of any specific future residential projects
would be analyzed at the time of their proposal. Therefore, no impacts would occur as a result
of the Housing Element.
I V. CULTURAL RESOURCES. Would the oroiect: I
a) Cause a substantial adverse change in
the significance of a historical resource ❑ ❑ ® ❑
as defined in § 15064.5?
Less Than Significant Impact. There are a number of historical resources in the City of Santa
Monica. As previously stated, the Housing Element is a General Plan policy document that
addresses housing need in the City; no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is
proposed as part of the Housing Element. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, result in
impacts on historical resources.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the Housing Element would not create new impacts
or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.4 -43).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. Depending on location, future housing development in the City would have
the potential to result in the removal of a historical resource but, as analyzed in the LUCE FIR (pg.
4.4 -43), the LUCE established a rigorous regulatory framework that would preserve historic
structures within the City. In addition to establishing preservation and conservation policies that
aim to protect the defining features that make the City unique, the LUCE also established
Neighborhood Conservation Overlay Districts and criteria that would provide additional
regulatory tools for preserving and enhancing residential neighborhoods. In addition, the City's
Landmarks Commission reviews all applications for demolition of structures over 40 years of age.
Furthermore, in compliance with CEQA, any potential impacts on historical resources of any
specific future residential projects would be analyzed at the time of their proposal. New housing
projects occurring in the City would be required to adhere to existing City requirements that
protect historical resources. Therefore, the Housing Element would result in a less than significant
impact on historical resources.
p _ City of Santa Monica
October 2013
_.. Page 17 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
b) Cause a substantial adverse change in
the significance of an archaeological
resource pursuant to § 15064.5?
❑
❑
®
❑
c) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique
El
El
El
El
paleontological resource or site or
unique geological feature?
d) Disturb any human remains, including
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El
0
El
those interred outside of formal
cemeteries?
Less Than Significant Impact. As previously stated, the General Plan Housing Element is a policy
document that addresses housing need in the City; no actual development or rezoning /re-
designation of land is proposed as part of the Housing Element. Therefore, its adoption would
not, in itself, uncover archaeological resources, paleontological resources, or human remains.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the Housing Element would not create new impacts
or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.4 -45).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. As discussed in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.4 -45), there is the possibility that important
prehistoric and historic -age archaeological resources, paleontological resources, and human
remains could be found in the subsurface of the City and be discovered during earthwork
activities. The extent and condition of such subsurface resources would be dependent upon the
amount of intrusive ground disturbing activities required for the construction of existing buildings
and associated infrastructure.
However, new development projects would be subject to all applicable federal, state,
regional, and local policies and regulations related to the protection of important archeological
resources, paleontological resources, and buried human remains. Therefore, the Housing
Element would result in a less than significant impact.
VI. GEOLOGY AND SOILS. Would the project:
e City of Santa Monica
October 2013
„.... Page 18 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of
loss, injury or death, involving:
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.
I ii. Strong seismic ground shaking? I ❑ I ❑ I ® I ❑
Less Than Significant Impact. There are no designated Alquist - Priolo Earthquake Fault Rupture
zones in the City. However, there are City- designated Fault Hazard Management Zones crossing
through the City.) Therefore, the City could be exposed to groundshaking during a seismic
event. Because no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part
of the Housing Element, its adoption would not, in itself, expose people or structures to seismic
risks.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the Housing Element would not create new impacts
or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg 4.5 -21).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. Depending on the location, future housing development could be exposed
to fault risks and groundshaking during a seismic event. However, compliance with policies
already adopted as part of the City's Safety Element, as well as requirements in the Santa
Monica Building Code ensures that all new construction adhere to the most current building and
seismic codes. New development occurring in the City would be subject to all applicable
federal, state, regional, and local policies and regulations related to seismic safety including
those contained in the Santa Monica Municipal Code (SMMC) and Santa Monica Building
Code. In addition, in accordance with the City's Guidelines for Geotechnical Reports, new
projects in the City must submit a site - specific geotechnical investigation that includes standards
City of Santa Monica, Geologic Hazards Map, online at htto://gismao sonta- monica ora /GISMaps /pdf /aeohoz.odP
accessed May 13, 2013.
a City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 19 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
and requirements for addressing seismic safety.2 The geotechnical investigation must be
submitted to the City for review and approval before a grading or building permit can be issued
by the City for a proposed project. Therefore, the Housing Element would result in a less than
significant impact associated with an earthquake fault.
-
-
-Less Than
_
_-
Significant
Significant
-
-
and
Impact with `
Less Than
_
_
Unavoidable
Mitigation
Significant
-
Impact
Incorporated
Impact
No Impact !.
iii. Seismic - related ground failure,
including liquefaction?
Less Than Significant Impact. Strong ground shaking occurring in areas with high ground water
tables and poorly consolidated soils can result in liquefaction. As identified in the LUCE EIR (pg.
4.5 -22), the areas along the coastline, southwestern city limits, and the northern portion between
Colorado Avenue and Santa Monica Boulevard are believed to be susceptible to liquefaction
during seismic events. In the event of an earthquake, liquefaction could occur. No actual
development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part of the Housing Element,
which is a policy document only. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, result in impacts
related to liquefaction.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the 2013 -2021 Housing Element Update would not
create new impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.5-
22) .
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. New projects in the City would be required to first assess the potential for
liquefaction at the building site and to provide a site - specific Geotechnical Report with design
recommendations to mitigate the site's liquefaction potential. The geotechnical investigation
must be submitted to the City for review and approval before a grading or building permit can
be issued by the City for a proposed project. In addition, new projects would be required to
comply with the standards and requirements of the SMMC and Santa Monica Building Code to
ensure the maximum practicable seismic protection for structures. Therefore, the Housing
Element would result in a less than significant impact.
-
=: -Less Than
_
Significant
Significant :
-
-
7 and
Impact with
Less Than
-_
- =
Unavoidable
_Mitigation
Significant
Impact
Incorporated
impact
No Impact
1 City of Santa Monica, Guidelines for Geotechnical Reports, online at
httjp:llwww.smciov.net/`uiploodedFiles/DeK)artments/Building and Safety /Plan Check/SMGeotechGuidelines%20-
%20March %202010 %20final.p• accessed May 13, 2013.
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
r_,., Page 20 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
Less Than Significant Impact. Landslides are often associated with earthquakes, but there are
other factors that can influence the occurrence of landslides. These factors include the slope,
the moisture content of the soil, and the composition of the subsurface geology. The City of
Santa Monica is generally flat; however, landslides could occur along the coastline and the
northern edge of the City, both of which exhibit steeper grades. Because no actual
development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part of the Housing Element, its
adoption would not, in itself, expose people or structures to landslide risks.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the 2013 -2021 Housing Element Update would not
create new impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg 4.5 -20).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. New land uses would be required to comply with all sections of the SMMC,
including SMMC Section 8.20 (Special Provisions for Hillside Buildings), which sets forth specific
building requirements beyond the CBC that relate directly to development in hillside areas. New
development projects occurring in the City would be required to provide site - specific
geotechnical investigations to determine the potential for geological hazards.3 The
geotechnical investigation must be submitted to the City for review and approval before a
grading or building permit can be issued by the City for a proposed project. Therefore, the
2013 -2021 Housing Element would result in a less than significant impact associated with
landslides.
'less Than
-
_
Significant
Significant
-
and
Impact with:
Less Than
Less Than
Unavoidable
- Mitigation -
Significant
-
_
impact
incorporated
impact
-No Impact -
iv) Landslides?
❑
❑
®
❑
Less Than Significant Impact. Landslides are often associated with earthquakes, but there are
other factors that can influence the occurrence of landslides. These factors include the slope,
the moisture content of the soil, and the composition of the subsurface geology. The City of
Santa Monica is generally flat; however, landslides could occur along the coastline and the
northern edge of the City, both of which exhibit steeper grades. Because no actual
development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part of the Housing Element, its
adoption would not, in itself, expose people or structures to landslide risks.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the 2013 -2021 Housing Element Update would not
create new impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg 4.5 -20).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. New land uses would be required to comply with all sections of the SMMC,
including SMMC Section 8.20 (Special Provisions for Hillside Buildings), which sets forth specific
building requirements beyond the CBC that relate directly to development in hillside areas. New
development projects occurring in the City would be required to provide site - specific
geotechnical investigations to determine the potential for geological hazards.3 The
geotechnical investigation must be submitted to the City for review and approval before a
grading or building permit can be issued by the City for a proposed project. Therefore, the
2013 -2021 Housing Element would result in a less than significant impact associated with
landslides.
Less Than Significant Impact. Land in the City is largely developed, and therefore, the potential
for large areas of exposed topsoil that could be subject to erosion is considered minimal. As
previously stated, the Housing Element is a General Plan policy document that addresses
3 City of Santa Monica, Guidelines for Geotechnical Reports, online at
htto: / /www.smciov. net/ uotoodedFi les /Deoortments /Buildina and Safety /Plan Check 1SMGeotechGuidelines %20-
%20March %2020107,20final.odf• accessed May 13, 2013.
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
;..._. Page 21 of 49
Less Than --
- - =
Significant
Significant
-
and
-impact
with -.
Less Than
Unavoidable
Mitigation
Significant
-
Impact
Incorporaied'.
impact
No Impact
b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the
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®
El
of topsoil?
Less Than Significant Impact. Land in the City is largely developed, and therefore, the potential
for large areas of exposed topsoil that could be subject to erosion is considered minimal. As
previously stated, the Housing Element is a General Plan policy document that addresses
3 City of Santa Monica, Guidelines for Geotechnical Reports, online at
htto: / /www.smciov. net/ uotoodedFi les /Deoortments /Buildina and Safety /Plan Check 1SMGeotechGuidelines %20-
%20March %2020107,20final.odf• accessed May 13, 2013.
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
;..._. Page 21 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
housing need in the City; no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed
as part of the Housing Element. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, result in impacts
related to soil erosion.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the Housing Element would not create new impacts
or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.5 -23).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. Demolition and construction activities for new housing projects within the
City would be required to comply with the erosion and sediment controls mandated by the
National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program and /or Section 7.10 of the
Santa Monica Municipal Code (Urban Runoff Pollution Control Ordinance). Therefore,
compliance with existing regulatory requirements would ensure that new housing uses do not
increase the level of soil erosion and loss of topsoil within the City. Therefore, the proposed
Housing Element would result in a less than significant impact.
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?
Less Than Significant Impact. Liquefaction -prone areas could also be susceptible to lateral
spreading. As previously stated, the Housing Element is a General Plan policy document that
addresses housing need in the City; no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is
proposed as part of the Housing Element. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, result in
impacts related to liquefaction.
Additionally, the Housing Element does not propose any changes to the City's existing land use
and residential standards, and is consistent with policies set forth in the LUCE. Therefore,
adopting the 2013 -2021 Housing Element Update would not create new impacts or increase the
significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR.
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. New housing projects occurring in the City would be required to prepare
site - specific geotechnical investigations to ensure that new land uses would not be located on
unstable soils or geologic units. The geotechnical investigation must be submitted to the City
for review and approval before a grading or building permit can be issued by the City for a
proposed project. In addition, new projects would be required to comply with the standards
a City of Santa Monica
October 2013
„w, Page 22 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
and requirements of the SMMC and Santa Monica Building Code to ensure the maximum
practicable seismic protection for structures. Therefore, the proposed Housing Element would
result in a less than significant impact.
d) Be located on expansive soil, as
defined in Table 18 -1 -B of the Uniform ❑ ❑ ❑
Building Code (1994), creating
substantial risks to life or property?
Less Than Significant Impact. A soil's potential to shrink and swell depends on the amount and
types of clay in the soil. The soil type of most concern in the City is the Diablo series, which has a
high expansion potential. According to the CDFA, Diablo soils are located in the northwestern
portion of the City. As previously stated, the Housing Element is a General Plan policy document
that addresses housing need in the City; no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of
land is proposed as part of the Housing Element. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself,
create substantial risks to life or property from expansive soils.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the 2013 -2021 Housing Element Update would not
create new impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.5-
25).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. New housing developments in the City would be required to prepare a site -
specific geotechnical investigation that would identify potentially unsuitable soil conditions and
appropriate measures and /or design features to address expansive soils. Thus, adherence to the
building code requirements, as well as the geotechnical investigation requirements, would
reduce impacts related to expansive soils. Therefore, the proposed Housing Element would result
in a less than significant impact.
e) Have soils incapable of adequately
supporting the use of septic tanks or El ❑ ❑
alternative wastewater disposal
systems where sewers are not available
for the disposal of wastewater?
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 23 of 49
3 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
No Impact. As stated in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.5 -19), the entirety of the City of Santa Monica is
served by established wastewater conveyance and treatment services. All housing
development occurring in the City would connect to the existing sewer system and would not
require the use of septic tanks. Therefore, no impact would occur.
VII. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS. Would the project:
a) Generate greenhouse gas emissions,
either directly or indirectly, that may ❑ El ❑
have a significant impact on the
environment?
b) Conflict with an applicable plan, policy
or regulation adopted for the purpose El ❑ ❑
of reducing the emissions of
greenhouse gases?
No Impact. As previously stated, the Housing Element is a General Plan policy document that
addresses housing need in the City; no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is
proposed as part of the Housing Element. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, generate
greenhouse gas emissions.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the 2013 -2021 Housing Element Update would not
create new impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.14-
49). The LUCE addresses GHG emissions through its land use and transportation policies such as
focusing development near transit, creating complete neighborhoods, supporting infill mixed -
use projects, affordable and transit - oriented housing located near jobs and transit. The Housing
Element reinforces the LUCE goal of focusing housing near transit, which would help to achieve
goals of greenhouse gas emissions reductions. As stated in the Housing Element, the City has
incorporated a number of green building measures to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions
which include:
• Require that new housing be solar ready for future photovoltaic installation]
• Require that new construction exceed minimum state energy standards by at least 15%
• Require water efficient landscaping and irrigation system
• Provide incentives for rainwater and graywater capture and reuse
In addition, the Housing Element includes continuing policies aimed at developing sustainable
housing through green building incentives and requirements, conserving water and energy
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 24 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
citywide and reducing GHG gases through strategic connections between housing,
employment and transit opportunities.
Therefore, adoption of the Housing Element would result in a less than significant impact on
greenhouse gas emissions and adopted plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Less Than Significant Impact. The Housing Element is a General Plan policy document that
addresses housing need in the City; no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is
proposed as part of the Housing Element. No hazards are associated with the policies or
programs contained in the Housing Element Update. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself,
create hazards as a result of the transport, storage, and use of hazardous materials or the
accidental release of hazardous materials. Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure
does not propose changes to the City's adopted housing - related policies and programs
including those set forth in the LUCE and the 2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element
also provides for the continuation of the preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in
the 2008 -2014 Housing Element. Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed
would not have any potential to affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the 2013 -2021
Housing Element Update would not create new impacts or increase the significance of impacts
identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.6 -22).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. Although new housing projects could increase the quantity of hazardous
materials used and hazardous waste generated, such materials and wastes would be typical of
those used and generated by existing uses. Furthermore, it is anticipated that such hazardous
materials would be used and disposed of in accordance the regulations, standards, and
guidelines established by the EPA, Cal /EPA, the adopted regulations of Los Angeles County, and
City of Santa Monica related to storage, use, and disposal of hazardous materials. Therefore,
adoption of the Housing Element would result in a less than significant impact.
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 25 of 49
`Less Than
-
_
Significant
(Significant - -.
and
Impact with
Less Than
=
-
Unavoidable
Mitigation
Significant
-
- - -
Impact
Incorporated=
Impact
No Impact -.
VIII. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS. Would the project:
a) Create a significant hazard to the
public or the environment through the
❑
❑
®
❑
routine transport, use or disposal of
hazardous materials?
b) Create a significant hazard to the
public or the environment through
reasonably foreseeable upset and
0
❑
®
0
accident conditions involving the
release of hazardous materials into the
environment?
Less Than Significant Impact. The Housing Element is a General Plan policy document that
addresses housing need in the City; no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is
proposed as part of the Housing Element. No hazards are associated with the policies or
programs contained in the Housing Element Update. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself,
create hazards as a result of the transport, storage, and use of hazardous materials or the
accidental release of hazardous materials. Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure
does not propose changes to the City's adopted housing - related policies and programs
including those set forth in the LUCE and the 2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element
also provides for the continuation of the preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in
the 2008 -2014 Housing Element. Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed
would not have any potential to affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the 2013 -2021
Housing Element Update would not create new impacts or increase the significance of impacts
identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.6 -22).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. Although new housing projects could increase the quantity of hazardous
materials used and hazardous waste generated, such materials and wastes would be typical of
those used and generated by existing uses. Furthermore, it is anticipated that such hazardous
materials would be used and disposed of in accordance the regulations, standards, and
guidelines established by the EPA, Cal /EPA, the adopted regulations of Los Angeles County, and
City of Santa Monica related to storage, use, and disposal of hazardous materials. Therefore,
adoption of the Housing Element would result in a less than significant impact.
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 25 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle
hazardous or acutely hazardous
materials, substances or waste within ❑ ❑ ❑
one - quarter mile of an existing or
proposed school?
No Impact. As previously stated, the Housing Element is a General Plan policy document that
addresses housing need in the City; no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is
proposed as part of the Housing Element. No hazards are associated with the policies or
programs contained in the Housing Element Update. The Housing Element addresses the City's
housing need. Housing developments do not pose significant risks to schools. Therefore, its
adoption would not, in itself, result in hazards within 'A mile of an existing or proposed school.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the 2013 -2021 Housing Element Update would not
create new impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.6-
25). No impacts on schools would occur as a result of adopting the Housing Element.
d) Be located on a site which is
included on a list of hazardous materials
sites compiled pursuant to Government ❑ ❑ ® ❑
Code §65962.5, and as a result, would it
create a significant hazard to the public or
the environment ?
Less Than Significant Impact. As stated in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.6 -26), the City contains known
hazardous materials sites including sites containing LUSTS, voluntary cleanup sites, and small -
quantity generators of hazardous waste. The EIR further states that land use changes on these
sites could increase potential hazards risks to the public and /or environment. No actual
development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part of the Housing Element.
Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, expose people or structures to hazardous materials
sites.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 26 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the 2013 -2021 Housing Element Update would not
create new impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.6-
26).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. Future residential projects associated with implementation of the Housing
Element update would be subject to site - specific CEQA review in order to assess whether the site
is listed as a hazardous materials site, pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5. If a
residential project is located in an area identified as a hazardous materials site, the responsible
party would be required to undertake remediation procedures prior to ground disturbance
under the supervision of the appropriate regulatory oversight agencies (County Environmental
Health Division, Department of Toxic Substances Control [DTSC], or Regional Water Quality
Control Board [RWQCB]), depending upon the nature of any identified contamination.
Therefore, adopting the Housing Element would result in a less than significant impact.
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 a public use ❑ ❑ ® ❑
airport, would the project result in a
safety hazard for people residing or
working in the project area?
Less Than Significant Impact. The Santa Monica Municipal Airport is located in the southeastern
portion of the City. As analyzed in the LUCE FIR, all air traffic within the City are subject to many
stringent regulations to protect the public from potential aircraft hazards or other safety
concerns, such as Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and Caltrans regulations. In
addition, the LUCE FIR states that all development surrounding any airport is required to comply
with that airport's Airport Land Use Plan (ALUP) which addresses airport operations on public
safety. As discussed previously, the Housing Element does not include specific development
projects. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, expose people or structures to airport risks.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the 2013 -2021 Housing Element Update would not
create new impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.6-
27).
y - City of Santa Monica
October 2013
.,...... Page 27 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing.
Future housing projects could occur near the Santa Monica Airport; however, these projects
would be subject to site - specific CEQA review in order to assess potential airport hazards. These
projects would also be required to be compatible with the land use standards established in the
City's Municipal Code, the LUCE, and the ALUP. Therefore, adopting the Housing Element would
result in a less than significant impact.
f) 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 ❑ 1 ❑ I
No Impact. As stated in the LUCE EIR (pg.4.6 -28), there are no existing private airstrips within the
City. As a result, no safety hazard associated with location near a private airstrip would occur
under the 2013 -2021 Housing Element. Therefore, no impact would occur.
g) Impair implementation of, or physically
interfere with, an adopted emergency ❑ ❑ ® ❑
response plan or emergency
evacuation plan?
Less Than Significant. The Santa Monica Fire Department (SMFD) conducts disaster
preparedness training sessions, drills, and exercises for the general public and city employees.
The City also adopted the Santa Monica Emergency Response Plan in 2006, which is based on
the National Incident Management System (NIMS) guidelines and the state Standardized
Emergency Management System (SEMS) guidelines. The Plan provides guidance for the City's
response to emergency situations associated with natural and manmade disasters. The Plan
concentrates on management concepts and response procedures relative to large -scale
disasters. Since no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part of
the Housing Element, its adoption would not, in itself, result in adverse impacts on an emergency
management plan.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
.� City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 28 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDYMEGATIVE DECLARATION
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the 2013 -2021 Housing Element Update would not
create new impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.6-
28).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. New housing development occurring in the City would be subject to review
by the SMFD to ensure that they would not impair or interfere with an adopted emergency
response plan. Therefore, the Housing Element would result in a less than significant impact.
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 wildlands?
No Impact. As stated in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.6 -22), the City is characterized by features typical of
the urban landscape and vegetation is dominated by nonnative ornamentals. No wildlands exist
within the City limits. Therefore, the 2013 -2021 Housing Element would not expose people or
structures to significant risks due to wildland fires. No impact associated with wildland fires would
occur.
IX. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY. Would the project:
a) Violate any water quality standards or ❑ ❑ ❑
waste discharge requirements?
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 uses or
planned uses for which permits have
been granted)?
o City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 29 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
c) Substantially alter the existing drainage
pattern of the site or area, including
through the alteration of the course of El 1:1 El a stream or river, in a manner which
would result in substantial erosion or
siltation on- 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 that would result in
flooding on- 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?
f) Otherwise substantially degrade water El
quality?
No Impact. As a General Plan policy document that addresses housing need in the City, no
actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part of the Housing
Element. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, result in adverse impacts on water quality or
water runoff.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the Housing Element would not create new impacts
or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.7 -32).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. New housing projects will be required to adhere to water quality and runoff
regulations including those set forth by the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES)' Construction General Permit and the City's Urban Runoff Pollution Ordinance (Section
7.10 of the Santa Monica Municipal Code) to address potential water quality impacts or water
runoff. It should also be noted that new development projects occurring in the Plan area would
be subject to environmental review to assess the potential for water quality impacts. Therefore,
no impact would occur as a result of the Housing Element.
a City of Santa Monica
October 2013
�. Page 30 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
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?
h) Place within a 100 -year flood hazard
area structures that would impede or ❑ ❑ ❑
redirect flood flows?
No Impact. As stated in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.7 -29), the City of Santa Monica is not located within
a 100 -year flood hazard area as mapped on a Federal Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood
Insurance Rate Map. Therefore, new housing development occurring under the Housing Element
would not place structures within a 100 -year flood hazard area. Thus, no impact would occur.
No impact associated with flood hazards would occur.
i) Expose people or structures to a
significant risk of loss, injury or death ❑ ❑ ® ❑
involving flooding, including flooding as
a result of a failure of a levee or dam?
Less Than Significant Impact. As stated in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.7 -37), the General Plan Safety
Element defines the risks in the City of Santa Monica from inundation or flooding resulting from
the failure of a dam or levee as low. In addition, while the Stone Canyon Reservoir and the
Riviera Reservoir could cause flood impacts, the City of Santa Monica adopted the Standard
Emergency Management System /National Incident Management System (SEMS /NIMS)
Emergency Response Plan. The Plan provides guidance for the City's response to emergency
situations associated with natural and manmade disasters, including inundation as a result of the
failure of a dam or levee, should a human -made or natural disaster occur. Therefore, adoption
of the Housing Element would result in a less than significant impact.
D Inundation by seiche, tsunami, or ❑ ❑ ® ❑
mudflow?
Less Than Significant Impact. As a General Plan policy document that addresses housing need in
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 31 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
the City, no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part of the
Housing Element. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, result in adverse impacts related to
inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow.
A seiche is a standing wave occurring in an enclosed or partially enclosed body of water, such
as a lake, reservoir, or bay. There are no enclosed or partially enclosed large bodies of water in
the City. Therefore, the potential for inundation from a seiche is considered remote. Mudflows
(also called debris flows) result from the downslope movement of soil and /or rock under the
influence of gravity. The City is not located downslope from any steep hillsides. The City is not at
risk from inundation by mudflow.
A tsunami is a large ocean wave caused by a significant undersea disturbance such as
earthquakes. The low -lying beachfront areas of the City are designated as tsunami hazard area.
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. The City of Santa Monica has adopted the Standard Emergency
Management System /National Incident Management System (SEMS /NIMS) Emergency
Response Plan. The Plan provides guidance for the City's response to emergency situations
associated with natural and manmade disasters, including inundation as a result of the failure of
a dam or levee, should a human -made or natural disaster occur. Therefore, adoption of the
Housing Element would result in a less than significant impact.
No Impact. No actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part of the
Housing Element. The Housing Element policies guide housing, emphasizing provision of
affordable housing and new housing developed in conjunction with services that would also
serve the existing community. In this sense, its policies may serve to unite and provide more civic
activity in contrast to concerns about physically dividing an established community. One of the
guiding principles in the 2010 LUCE was to preserve neighborhoods and create complete
communities. The Housing Element would not rezone or change the land use designations
established by the LUCE. Furthermore, no actual development is proposed by the Housing
Element nor would the Housing Element grant entitlements for future development. The Housing
Element establishes goals, policies, and objectives (such as Goal 1.0, Policies 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5,
1.9, and Objective l.f) to reinforce the LUCE goal to preserve existing neighborhoods. Therefore,
the Housing Element would not physically divide an established community.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
a� City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 32 of 49
Than -
=
Significant
_less
.Significant
and
- with -
Less Than
_
Unavoidable
- Mitigation =-
Significant
Impact
incorporated`
ImpacV
No Impact
X. LAND USE AND PLANNING.
Would the project:
a) Physically divide an
established
❑
community?
No Impact. No actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part of the
Housing Element. The Housing Element policies guide housing, emphasizing provision of
affordable housing and new housing developed in conjunction with services that would also
serve the existing community. In this sense, its policies may serve to unite and provide more civic
activity in contrast to concerns about physically dividing an established community. One of the
guiding principles in the 2010 LUCE was to preserve neighborhoods and create complete
communities. The Housing Element would not rezone or change the land use designations
established by the LUCE. Furthermore, no actual development is proposed by the Housing
Element nor would the Housing Element grant entitlements for future development. The Housing
Element establishes goals, policies, and objectives (such as Goal 1.0, Policies 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5,
1.9, and Objective l.f) to reinforce the LUCE goal to preserve existing neighborhoods. Therefore,
the Housing Element would not physically divide an established community.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
a� City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 32 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the Housing Element would not create new impacts
or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.8 -114).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. New residential development would be required to comply with all
applicable plans and regulations including the LUCE, adopted specific plans, and the City's
Municipal Code. All development projects are subject to environmental review as appropriate
in compliance with CEQA prior to approval. Therefore, no impact on established communities
would occur.
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?
No Impact. No actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part of the
Housing Element. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, physically divide an established
community.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element. The
proposed Housing Element is an update and revision of the previous Housing Element and
predominately consists of new technical data and updated policies and implementation
programs to be consistent with current State law and the City's LUCE. The LUCE created a
framework to integrate housing with existing and future transit investment. The Housing Element is
consistent with the LUCE goal of providing affordable housing near transit - oriented districts.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the Housing Element would not create new impacts
or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.8 -109).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. New residential development would be required to comply with all
applicable plans and regulations including the LUCE, adopted specific plans, and the City's
Municipal Code. Additionally, all development projects are subject to environmental review as
appropriate to comply with CEQA prior to approval. Therefore, no impact would occur.
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
za „„.. Page 33 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
c) Conflict with any applicable habitat
conservation plan or natural ❑ ❑ ❑ LE
community conservation plan?
No Impact. As analyzed in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.8 -114), the City does not have a habitat
conservation or natural community conservation plan because the City does not contain any
significant habitat capable of supporting sensitive species or any significant ecological areas.
Since there is no habitat conservation plan or natural community conservation plan applicable
to the City, the Housing Element would not conflict with an applicable habitat conservation or
community conservation plan. No impact on habitat conservation areas would occur.
XI. MINERAL RESOURCES. Would the 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?
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?
No Impact. There are no valued mineral resources or mineral resource recovery sites in the City
of Santa Monica. As was determined in the LUCE EIR, the entire City is urbanized and does not
contain any mineral resources. Therefore, the Housing Element would not result in impacts on
mineral resources. Therefore, no impact on mineral resources would occur.
XII. NOISE. Would the project result in:
o� City of Santa Monica
October 2013
,....,, Page 34 of 49
201$ -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
b) Exposure of persons to or generation of
-
Less Than
noise levels in excess of standards
Significant
Significant --
- -
established in the Santa Monica
❑
❑
El
General Plan, the City Noise
Unavoidable
Mitigation -
Significant
Ordinance, or applicable standards of
impact
Incorporated -
Impact
No Impact _.
other agencies?
d) Exposure of persons to or generation of
excessive groundborne vibration or
❑
❑
❑
groundborne noise levels?
e) A substantial permanent increase in
ambient noise levels in the project
❑
❑
❑
vicinity above levels existing without
the project?
f) A substantial temporary or periodic
increase in ambient noise levels in the
❑
❑
❑
project vicinity above levels existing
without the project?
No Impact. The General Plan Housing Element is a policy document that addresses housing
need in the City; no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part
of the Housing Element. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, generate temporary or
permanent noise or groundborne vibration.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. he Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the Housing Element would not create new impacts
or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.9 -27).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. All future new residential development projects would be subject to site -
specific analysis of noise impacts. Additionally, future housing projects would be required to
adhere to the City of Santa Monica Noise Ordinance with regard to construction and operation
noise. Therefore, no impacts would occur as a result of the Housing Element.
- - - -
-
Less Than
Significant
Significant --
- -
-_ - - -_
and
with
Less Than
-
Unavoidable
Mitigation -
Significant
- -
impact
Incorporated -
Impact
No Impact _.
Q City of Santa Monica
October 2013
„ w.. Page 35 of 49
HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
h) For a project located within an airport
land use plan area or, where such a
plan has not been adopted, within two
miles of a public airport or a public use ❑ ❑ ® ❑
airport, would the project expose
people residing or working in the
project area to excessive noise levels?
Less Than Significant Impact. The Santa Monica Airport is located in the southeast corner of the
City. As discussed previously, the Housing Element only provides a framework for the City's
anticipated future residential growth and housing demand. The Housing Element is a policy
document that addresses housing need in the City; no actual development or rezoning /re-
designation of land is proposed as part of the Housing Element. Therefore, its adoption would
not, in itself, expose people to airport noise.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the Housing Element would not create new
impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.9 -51).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. All future new residential development projects would be subject to site -
specific analysis of airport noise impacts. Additionally, future residential land uses surrounding
the Santa Monica Airport would be required to comply and be compatible with the land use
standards established in the City's Municipal Code, the LUCE, and the Santa Monica Airport
Land Use Plan. Therefore, the Housing Element would result in a less than significant impact.
_ - - -
--
Less Than s
-
-_
Significant
_
Significant
-
and
with
Less Than
- -
Unavoidable
_Mitigation --
Significant
-
- - -
Impact
Incorporated-
Impact
No Impact
a) 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?
No Impact. There are no private airstrips in the vicinity of the City. Therefore, the Housing
Element would not result in noise impacts related to a private airstrip. No impact would occur.
e City of Santa Monica
October 2013
,,... „., Page 36 of 49
HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
XIV. POPULATION AND HOUSING. Would the project:
a) Induce substantial population growth
in an area, either directly (e.g., by
proposing new homes and businesses) ❑ ❑ ❑
or indirectly (e.g., through extension of
roads or other infrastructure)?
No Impact. The General Plan Housing Element addresses housing need in the City and includes
a Housing Plan to address the City's RHNA housing allocation for the 2013 -2021 period and
support focusing housing near multi -modal transportation hubs, including a strong component of
deed - restricted affordable housing. No actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land
is proposed as part of the Housing Element. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, indirectly
or directly generate population growth.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element. The
Housing Element is consistent with the the LUCE and as such, the Housing Element would not
result in population increases over what the LUCE had forecasted. The Housing Element also
supports LUCE strategies to integrate land use and transportation to achieve a sustainable
community by strategically locating affordable and workforce housing in areas associated with
transit, and encouraging the creation of walkable complete neighborhoods with local- serving
commercial and housing uses. Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed
would not have any potential to affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the Housing
Element would not create new impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the
LUCE EIR (pg. 4.10 -12).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. As individual housing projects are proposed, they will be analyzed
individually for their potential impacts on population and housing. Therefore, as a policy
document, the Housing Element would not induce substantial population growth, and no
impacts would occur.
b) Displace substantial numbers of existing El 1:1 1:1 housing, necessitating the construction
of replacement housing elsewhere?
c) Displace substantial numbers of El El 1:1 people, necessitating the construction
of replacement housing elsewhere?
fl - City of Santa Monica
October 2013
.,c,.... Page 37 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
No Impact. The Housing Element provides policies that address housing need in the City; no
actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part of the Housing
Element. No actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part of the
Housing Element. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, displace housing or people.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adopting the Housing Element would not create new impacts
or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.10 -13).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. The Housing Element is required to include Suitable Sites Inventory that
identifies sites that are located in mixed -use commercial districts, mostly on vacant or
commercial parcels. This was specifically developed to avoid the loss of existing housing, which
would displace residents. Future development of these parcels and other parcels not identified
would be subject to review and analysis of potential displacement impacts on a case by case
basis. Although displacement is not anticipated, projects that could result in displacement may
be required to provide relocation assistance and /or replacement housing in accordance with
federal, state, and local requirements. As a policy document, the Housing Element would not
result in the displacement of people or housing. Therefore, no impacts would occur.
XV. PUBLIC SERVICES. 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:
a) Fire protection? I ❑ I ❑ 1 ® ❑
Less Than Significant Impact. Fire protection services in the City are provided by the Santa
Monica Fire Department (SMFD), which has four fire stations with emergency response time
estimated at approximately four minutes. According to the SMFD, they are currently operating
at acceptable levels of fire protection services. The General Plan Housing Element is a policy
document that addresses housing need in the City and does not include any specific
development or rezoning /re- designation of land. Adoption of the Housing Element would not
directly generate a demand for fire protection services. Therefore, its adoption would not, in
itself, create increased demand for SMFD services.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adoption of the Housing Element would not create new
impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE FIR (pg. 4.11 -9).
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
w , Page 38 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. As part of the planning and development review process, new residential
development projects would be evaluated by the SMFD to determine the level of and demand
for fire protection services that would be generated by each project. Therefore, impacts on fire
protection services would be less than significant.
-
-Less Than
-
Significant
Significant
and
with
Less Than
-_
- _
Unavoidable
Mitigation
Significant
- - - -
Impact
Incorporated':
Impact
No Impact
b) Police protection?
❑
❑
®
❑
Less Than Significant Impact. Police protection services in the City are provided by the Santa
Monica Police Department (SMPD). The SMPD does have a 5 -year staffing plan created by the
department and approved by the City Council to increase police personnel levels based on
demand, contingent on budgetary constraints. SMPD also has equipment enhancement
programs, also contingent upon budgetary constraints. SMPD expansion might be
accommodated on the site of the Department's existing facility through new construction
and /or remodel or by the development of a police substation. The General Plan Housing
Element is a policy document that addresses housing need in the City and does not include any
specific development or rezoning /re- designation of land. Therefore, its adoption would not, in
itself, create increased demand for SMPD services.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adoption of the Housing Element would not create new
impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.11 -14).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. As part of the planning and development review process, new residential
development projects would be evaluated by the SMPD to determine the level of and demand
for police protection services that would be generated by each project. Therefore, impacts on
police protection services would be less than significant.
-
�Less Than !.
Significant
;Significant
and
with
Less Than
-_
Unavoidable
Mitigation
Significant
- - - -
Impact
Incorporated
Impact
No Impact -
c) Schools?
❑
❑
®
❑
Less Than Significant Impact. The Santa Monica - Malibu Unified School (SMMUSD) provides public
education to school -age students in the City. The General Plan Housing Element is a policy
document that addresses housing need in the City and does not include any specific
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
r...u.. Page 39 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
development or rezoning /re- designation of land. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself,
generate new students.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adoption of the Housing Element would not create new
impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.11 -23).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. As documented in the Housing Element, the average size of households and
the percentage with children in Santa Monica is below the regional median. In general, Housing
Element policies will not lead to a significant number of new school -age children that has not
been anticipated by the SMMUSD. In addition, all new residential development occurring in the
City is required to contribute funds in accordance with SMMUSD's currently adopted developer
fees (as authorized by SB 50 Leroy Green School Facilities Program [19981). This fee would go
towards expanding and upgrading SMMUSD facilities to accommodate enrollment at Santa
Monica public schools associated with development. According to Government Code Section
65996, the developer fees authorized by SB 50 are deemed as a matter of law to be full and
complete school facilities mitigation. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant.
_
-Less Than
-
Significant
Significant -
- - _
and
with
Less Than
Unavoidable
'Mitigation
Significant
-
Impact
Incorporated -
Impact
No Impact
d) Parks?
❑
❑
❑
e) Other public facilities?
❑
❑
❑
Less Than Significant Impact. The City of Santa Monica has 27 public parks, which includes the
recently opened Tongva Park, as well as the beach areas. Library services in the City are
provided by four SMPL libraries: the Main Library, the Montana Avenue Branch, the Fairview
Branch, and the Ocean Park Branch. In addition, the Pico Branch Library is currently under
construction and expected to open by 2014. The Housing Element contains policies to address
the City's housing needs. Because no specific development or rezoning /re- designation of land
is included, its adoption would not, in itself, generate new students.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adoption of the Housing Element would not create new
impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.11-28 and 4.11-
42).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 40 of 49
3 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
workforce housing. New developments would be required to contribute open space and other
facilities to satisfy the demand for parks and other public facilities. As part of the planning and
development review process, all new residential development projects would be evaluated on
a case -by -case basis to determine the level of and demand for public services that would be
generated by the project. Therefore, the impacts would be less than significant.
XVI. RECREATION.
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?
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?
Less Than Significant Impact. Please refer to discussion above Section XV - Parks.
XVIII. TRANSPORTATION /TRAFFIC. Would the project:
a) Conflict with an applicable plan,
ordinance or policy establishing
measures of effectiveness for the
performance of the circulation system,
taking into account all modes of
transportation including mass transit and
non- motorized travel and relevant
components of the circulation system,
including but not limited to intersections,
streets, highways and freeways,
pedestrian and bicycle paths, and mass
transit?
❑ I ❑ 1
e City of Santa Monica
October 2013
_.<, Page 41 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
b) Conflict with an applicable congestion
management program, including but
not limited to a level of service
standards and travel demand
standards, or other standards E ® El ❑
established by the county Congestion
Management Agency for designated
roads or highways?
c) Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or
programs regarding public transit,
bicycle, or pedestrian facilities, or El ❑ ❑
otherwise decrease the performance or
safety of such facilities?
Less Than Significant Impact. The LUCE created a framework to integrate housing with existing
and future transit investment. The Housing Element is consistent with adopted policies addressing
circulation and /or alternative modes of transportation. The Housing Element includes policies to
plan for future housing in transit -rich areas including Santa Monica's three future Expo light rail
stations. As a General Plan policy document, the Housing Element addresses housing need in
the City; no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part of the
Housing Element. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, generate new students.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element. The
Housing Element includes a Housing Plan to address the City's RHNA housing allocation for the
2013 -2021 period, which is consistent with the LUCE and as such, the Housing Element would not
result in traffic increases over what the LUCE had forecasted. Moreover, the new policies and
programs that are proposed would not have any potential to affect the environment. Therefore,
adopting the 2013 -2021 Housing Element Update would not create new impacts or increase the
significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg 4.12 -53).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. Project- specific traffic impacts that could result from future residential
development in the City will be evaluated on case -by -case basis through an appropriate level
of environmental review under CEQA as projects come forward. Therefore, impacts would be
less than significant.
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 42 of 49
-Less Than
-
-
Significant
Significant
-
_=
and
with
Less Than
=
_ - - -
Unavoidable
Mitigation
Significant
-
- -
impact
Incorporated
Impact
No Impact --
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 42 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
d) Result in a change in air traffic
patterns, including either an increase in El 1:1 El traffic levels or change in location that
results in substantial safety risks?
No Impact. As discussed previously, the Housing Element update does not include specific
development projects, and instead, only provides a framework for the City's anticipated future
residential growth and housing demand. Adoption of the Housing Element itself would not
involve building any structures and thus would not result in any changes to air traffic patterns
and in any substantial safety risks related to aircraft traffic.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adoption of the Housing Element would not create new
impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.12 -51).
Therefore, no impact would occur.
e) Substantially increase hazards due to a
design feature (e.g., sharp curves or
dangerous intersections) or ❑ ❑ ❑
incompatible uses (e.g., farm
equipment)?
No Impact. The Housing Element is a General Plan policy document that addresses housing
need in the City; no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part
of the Housing Element. The Housing Element would not result in physical impacts or the
development of hazardous design features.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adoption of the Housing Element would not create new
impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.12 -51).
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 43 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL
DECLARATION
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. Ongoing development proposals would be reviewed on a case -by -case
basis as they arise to determine if project layouts, driveway locations, land use types, or actual
intensities would result in hazardous conditions. Therefore, no impact would occur.
-
No Impact. As a policy document that addresses housing need in the City and does not
specifically include development or rezoning /re- designation of land, the Housing Element would
not result in physical impacts or inadequate emergency access.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing- related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adoption of the Housing Element would not create new
impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.12 -52).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. New residential development would be reviewed on a case -by -case basis to
determine if project layouts, driveway locations, land use types, or actual intensities could
impact emergency access. New development would be required to meet all applicable local
and State regulatory standards for adequate emergency access, including California Building
Code, Municipal Code and Fire Code requirements. Therefore, no impact would occur.
IX. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS. Would the project:
a) Require or result in the construction of
new water treatment facilities or
expansion of existing facilities, the ❑ ❑ ® ❑
construction of which could cause
significant environmental effects?
b) Have sufficient water supplies available
to serve the project from existing ❑ ❑ ® ❑
entitlements and resources, or are new
or expanded entitlements needed?
e City of Santa Monica
October 2013
„,,. Page 44 of 49
Less Than
=
-
Significant
_Significant - -.
_
and
- with -
Less Than
Unavoidable
Mitigation -
Significant
- -
impact
Incorporated.
Impact
No impact
f) Result in inadequate emergency
❑
❑
❑
access?
No Impact. As a policy document that addresses housing need in the City and does not
specifically include development or rezoning /re- designation of land, the Housing Element would
not result in physical impacts or inadequate emergency access.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing- related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adoption of the Housing Element would not create new
impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.12 -52).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. New residential development would be reviewed on a case -by -case basis to
determine if project layouts, driveway locations, land use types, or actual intensities could
impact emergency access. New development would be required to meet all applicable local
and State regulatory standards for adequate emergency access, including California Building
Code, Municipal Code and Fire Code requirements. Therefore, no impact would occur.
IX. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS. Would the project:
a) Require or result in the construction of
new water treatment facilities or
expansion of existing facilities, the ❑ ❑ ® ❑
construction of which could cause
significant environmental effects?
b) Have sufficient water supplies available
to serve the project from existing ❑ ❑ ® ❑
entitlements and resources, or are new
or expanded entitlements needed?
e City of Santa Monica
October 2013
„,,. Page 44 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
c) Exceed wastewater treatment
requirements of the applicable
Regional Water Quality Control Board?
d) Require or result in the construction of
new wastewater treatment facilities or
expansion of existing facilities, the
construction of which could cause
significant environmental effects?
❑ ❑
❑ ❑
e) Result in a determination by the
wastewater treatment provider that
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?
Less Than Significant Impact. The Housing Element is a General Plan policy document that
addresses housing need in the City; no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is
proposed as part of the Housing Element. As such, adoption of the Housing Element, by itself,
would not generate water or wastewater.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adoption of the Housing Element would not create new
impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.13 -41).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. The City adopted a 2010 Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP)4, which
reflects the City's aggressive efforts to achieve local water supply autonomy (i.e., ,no longer
relying on imported supplies) by 2020. In order to achieve local water supply autonomy, the City
has committed to reducing per capita demand to 123 gallons per capita per day (gpcd).
Based on the 2010 UWMP, water supplies are sufficient to meet Citywide water demands of
future growth. Furthermore, as future residential development projects are proposed, each
project would be evaluated on a case by case basis to ensure that adequate water and
wastewater infrastructure capacity exists to serve the project and if necessary, mitigate for its
impacts. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant.
J City of Santa Monica, 2010 Urban Water Management Plan
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
- ;..... Page 45 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
No Impact. The City actively implements waste reduction /diversion programs in compliance with
State law. In 2012, the City diverted more than 70 percent of its wastes from the landfill,
exceeding the target established in the Sustainable City Plan and the state's diversion rate.5 To
continue this success and further increase recycling and composting, Santa Monica is
developing a Zero Waste Strategic Plan to reach a diversion goal of 95 percent by 2035.6 The
Housing Element is a General Plan policy document that addresses housing need in the City; no
actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part of the Housing
Element. As such, adoption of the Housing Element, by itself, would not generate solid waste
impacts.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adoption of the Housing Element would not create new
impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.13 -51).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. Therefore, Housing Element would result in no impact.
-
Less Than
-
Significant
Significant
-
-
and
+ with
Less Than
-
-_ - -
Unavoidable
Mitigation
Significant
-
=
Impact
Incorporated _
Impact_
No Impact -
f) Fail to comply with federal, state and
El
El
El
local statutes and regulations related
to solid waste?
g) Be served by a landfill with insufficient
permitted capacity to accommodate
❑
❑
❑
the project's solid waste disposal
needs?
No Impact. The City actively implements waste reduction /diversion programs in compliance with
State law. In 2012, the City diverted more than 70 percent of its wastes from the landfill,
exceeding the target established in the Sustainable City Plan and the state's diversion rate.5 To
continue this success and further increase recycling and composting, Santa Monica is
developing a Zero Waste Strategic Plan to reach a diversion goal of 95 percent by 2035.6 The
Housing Element is a General Plan policy document that addresses housing need in the City; no
actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part of the Housing
Element. As such, adoption of the Housing Element, by itself, would not generate solid waste
impacts.
Additionally, the Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes to the City's
adopted housing - related policies and programs including those set forth in the LUCE and the
2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for the continuation of the
preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014 Housing Element.
Moreover, the new policies and programs that are proposed would not have any potential to
affect the environment. Therefore, adoption of the Housing Element would not create new
impacts or increase the significance of impacts identified in the LUCE EIR (pg. 4.13 -51).
Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element could result in new housing
that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies supporting affordable and
workforce housing. Therefore, Housing Element would result in no impact.
! City of Santa Monica, Sustainable City Report Card 2012; online at
htto7/ /www smaov net /uoloodedFiies /Departments /OSE /Categories /Sustainabi /ity /Sustainable City Report Card 2012.r)
of accessed September 18. 2013.
6 City of Santa Monica City Council Agenda, March 19, 2013; online at
htto7/ /www smaov net /departments/ council / agendas /20 13/20 1303 19/s20 1303 1 904 -A htm accessed September 13,
2013.
% City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 46 of 49
Less Than
Significant
- -
Potentially
With-
Less Than
- - =
Significant
Mitigation
Significant
No
-
=- Impact
Incorporated
Impact
Impact !.
! City of Santa Monica, Sustainable City Report Card 2012; online at
htto7/ /www smaov net /uoloodedFiies /Departments /OSE /Categories /Sustainabi /ity /Sustainable City Report Card 2012.r)
of accessed September 18. 2013.
6 City of Santa Monica City Council Agenda, March 19, 2013; online at
htto7/ /www smaov net /departments/ council / agendas /20 13/20 1303 19/s20 1303 1 904 -A htm accessed September 13,
2013.
% City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 46 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
XXI. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE
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 wild -life
population to drop below self- sustaining
levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or ❑ ❑ ❑
animal community, reduce the number or
restrict the range of rare or endangered
plants or animals, or eliminate important
examples of the major periods of California
history or prehistory?
No Impact. The Housing Element is a General Plan policy document that addresses housing
need in the City; no actual development or rezoning /re- designation of land is proposed as part
of the Housing Element. The Housing Element does not authorize any development. Therefore,
its adoption would not significantly 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. Therefore, no impact would occur.
b) Does the project have impacts that are
individually limited, but cumulatively
considerable? "Cumulatively considerable"
means that the incremental effects of a E] El ® El
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.
Less Than Significant Impact. The proposed project involves the adoption of the City's General
Plan Housing Element, which guides future housing. No specific development projects would
occur as a result of the Housing Element; and no redesignation /rezoning of land is proposed.
Therefore, adoption of the Housing Element, in itself, would not result in cumulative impacts.
Furthermore, cumulative impacts associated with future housing development have been
evaluated at a program level in the LUCE EIR. The Housing Element in large measure does not
propose changes to the City's adopted housing - related policies and programs including those
City of Santa Monica
October 2013
-..• Page 47 of 49
2013 -2021 HOUSING ELEMENT INITIAL STUDY /NEGATIVE DECLARATION
set forth in the LUCE and the 2008 -2014 Housing Element. The Housing Element also provides for
the continuation of the preexisting policies and programs that were adopted in the 2008 -2014
Housing Element. Since the Housing Element is consistent with the LUCE, therefore, adopting the
Housing Element would not create new cumulative impacts or increase the significance of
cumulative impacts identified in the LUCE EIR. Impacts would be less than significant.
c) Does the project have environmental effects
that will cause substantial adverse effects on ❑ ❑ ® ❑
human beings, either directly or indirectly?
Less Than Significant Impact. As identified throughout the analysis herein, the Housing Element
would not have an environmental effect that would cause substantial adverse effects on
human beings either directly or indirectly. Impacts would be less than significant.
s City of Santa Monica
October 2013
Page 48 of 49
ATTACHMENT G
Is available at the City Clerk's
Office, the City's libraries and
Online at
Attachment is within Legislative
File 400 - 001 -03
Reference:
Resolution No. 10788 (CCS) &
Resolution No. 10789 (CCS)