Agenda packet — Bell Gardens City Council, February 14, 2022 (part 1 of 3)

CITY OF BELL GARDENS

CITY COUNCIL

REGULAR MEETING
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2022, 6:00 PM
AGENDA
On March 4, 2020, Governor Newsom proclaimed a State of Emergency in California as a result of the threat of COVID-19. On September 16, 2021, Governor Newsom signed Assembly Bill 361 ("AB 361"), which was effective immediately and amends Government Code section 54953 to allow a local legislative body to hold public meetings via teleconferencing and to make public meetings accessible telephonically or otherwise electronically to all members of the public seeking to observe and to address the local legislative body.

Pursuant to AB 361, please be advised that members of the Bell Gardens City Council may participate in meetings telephonically. The public may view the meeting and participate in public remotely.

ACCESSIBILITY: If requested, the agenda and backup materials will be made available in appropriate alternative formats to persons with a disability, as required by Section 202 of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C.

Sec. 12132), and the federal rules and regulations adopted in implementation thereof. Any person who requires a disability -related modification or accommodation, in order to observe and/or offer public comment may request such reasonable modification, accommodation, aid, or service by contacting the City Clerk's office by telephone at 562-806-7704 or via email to [email protected] no later than one (1) hour before the scheduled meeting.

CALL TO ORDER

ROLL CALL OF CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS
Marco Barcena, Council Member
Alejandra Cortez, Council Member
Lisseth Flores, Council Member
Jorgel Chavez, Mayor Pro Tern
Maria Pulido, Mayor

CLOSED SESSION REPORT

PRESENTATIONS
• GLOBAL LOVE DAY PROCLAMATION
• RECOGNITION OF EL CORALOENSE PAELLA
• RECOGNIZING BLACK HISTORY MONTH
1 PUBLIC HEARING (Items No. 1-2)

1. FINAL "DRAFT" 2021-2029 GENERAL PLAN HOUSING ELEMENT

UPDATE AND PROPOSED INITIAL STUDY/NEGATIVE DECLARATION
(FILE NO.2021-062)
Adoption of the Draft2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element pursuant to the requirements of the State of California Housing and Community Development Department.

Recommendation:

It is staff's recommendation that the City Council:

1. Open the public hearing on the Final "Draft" 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update (Exhibit 1) and Initial Study/Negative Declaration (Exhibit 2), receive public input, close the public hearing, and deliberate on the acceptance of the Final "Draft" of the 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update as proposed; and

2. Adopt the attached Resolution (Exhibit 3), adopting the Final "Draft" 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update and approving the CEQA Initial Study/Negative Declaration.

2. FINAL'DRAFT' GENERAL PLAN CIRCULATION AND TRANSPORTATION

ELEMENT UPDATE AND PROPOSED INITIAL STUDY/NEGATIVE
DECLARATION (FILE NO. 2021-068)
In 2019, the City of Bell Gardens received funding from the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant program to develop an update to the City's General Plan Circulation and Transportation Element which was last updated in 1995. The Plan provides a blueprint for establishing a convenient, safe, and sustainable transportation network in Bell Gardens, which serves users of all modes including walking, biking, rolling, riding transit, and driving. The City conducted outreach efforts and workshops for residents to provide their input. Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), an Initial Study/Negative Declaration (IS/ND) has been prepared for the project. On January 19, 2022, the Planning Commission approved the "Draft" General Plan Circulation and Transportation Element Update and I S/ND, recommending to the City Council the approval of the "Draft" General Plan Circulation and Transportation Element Update and the Initial Study/Negative Declaration. Adopting the attached Resolution is necessary to approve the F i n a I "Draft" Circulation & Transportation Element Update, and the Initial Study/Negative Declaration prepared in accordance to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requirements.

Recommendation:

It is staff's recommendation that the City Council by motion:

1. Open the public hearing on the Final "Draft" General Plan Circulation & Transportation Element Update (Exhibit 1) and Initial Study/Negative Declaration (Exhibit 2), receive public input, close the public hearing, and deliberate on the 2 acceptance of the Final "Draft" General Plan Circulation and Transportation Element as proposed; and

2. Adopt the attached Resolution (Exhibit 3), adopting the Final "Draft" General Plan Circulation & Transportation Element Update and approving the CEQA Initial Study/Negative Declaration.

PUBLIC COMMENTS ONAGENDAITEMS ONLY
(Three minutes per person)
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: Pursuant to Government Code Section 54953, recently amended by AB 361 , and given the current health concerns, members of the public can access meetings live at https://www.bellgardens.org/i-want-to/watch-city-council-meetings . Members of the public may participate via Zoom by clicking on the City Council's Meeting Calendar on the website. (Be sure to download the Zoom App), the meeting ID is: 813 3236 4343 and the Passcode is: 2021. Comments may also be made via the zoom app by using the "Raise Hand" feature on the zoom app, when it is your turn to speak the host will unmute you. Live comments mayalso be made by call -in users on zoom bydialing (669)900-9128, when prompted enter the Webinar ID:813 3236 4343#, followed by Passcode: *2021#. During the public comments press *9, when it is your turn to speak, the user will need to dial *6 to unmute. Comments will not be accepted in the QandA/Chat function of the zoom app. Members of the public may also submit comments electronically for consideration by the City Council by sending them to [email protected]. To ensure distribution to the members of the City Council prior to consideration of the agenda, please submit comments no later than one (1) hour prior to the meeting. Those comments, as well as any comments received after, will be distributed to the members of the City Council and will be made part of the official public record of the meeting. Contact the City Clerk's office at 562-806- 7704 or the receptionist's desk at 562-806-7700 for any questions.

CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
CONSENT CALENDAR (Items No. 3-15)
All matters listed under the Consent Calendar are considered to be routine and can be acted on by one roll call vote. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless members of the Successor Agency request specific items to be remowd from the Consent Calendar for separate action. Items called for separate discussion will be heard as the next order of business

3. GENERAL MOTION TO WAIVE FULL READING AND APPROVE

ORDINANCES BY TITLE ONLY PURSUANT TO CALIFORNIA
GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 36934
In order to expedite the conduct of business at City Council meetings, California State Law (California Government Code Section 36934) allows Ordinances to be read by title if a majority of the legislative body supports the motion to waive the full reading.

Recommendation:

It is staff recommendation that the City Council approve a general motion to waive full reading and approve Ordinances by title only pursuant to California Government Code Section 36934.

4. WARRANT REGISTERS AND WIRE TRANSFERS
51 In approving the action of receiving and filing the warrant registers, the official minutes of the Bell Gardens City Council should state that each individual member of the City Council is not voting on, influencing the outcome of, or participating in approving, accepting, receiving or filing any warrant which bears the name of the same council member, or pays for any costs or expenses, or otherwise benefits the same named council member. Each council member will not be participating, influencing or voting on any such warrant bearing their name or which benefits the same named council member, but with that exception is voting in favor of receiving and filing all other warrants contained in this report, unless otherwise noted on the record at the time of the approval of the action required by this report.

Recommendation:

It is staff's recommendation that the City Council receive and file the warrant registers, wire transfers, and net payrolls dated 01 /11 /22, 01 /12/22, 01 /13/22, 01 /18/22 and 01 /25/22.

5. APPROVE MINUTES OF THE OCTOBER 25, 2021 CITY COUNCIL

CLOSED SESSION AND REGULAR MEETING
October 25, 2021 - Closed Session and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes Recommendation:

It is staff's recommendation that the City Council approve the attached minutes.

6. CONSIDERATION OF A RESOLUTION REAFFIRMING RESOLUTION NO. 2020-21 WHICH DECLARED A LOCAL EMERGENCY DUE TO THE
PUBLIC THREAT CAUSED BY CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)
On March 17, 2020, the City of Bell Gardens City Council adopted Resolution No. 2020-21 declaring a local emergency due to COVI D-19 as authorized by Government Code Section 8630 and Title 2 (Administration and Personnel), Chapter 2.34 (Disaster Council), Section 2.34.030 (Created — Membership) of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code ("Code"). Government Code Section 8630(c) states that a City Council "shall review the need for continuing the local emergency at least once every 60 days until the governing body terminates the local emergency." The conditions of extreme peril to the safety of persons and property continue due to COVI D-19 in the City of Bell Gardens.

Recommendation:

It is staff's recommendation that the City Council approve the attached Resolution reaffirming the declared local emergency due to the public threat caused by coronavirus (COVI D-19).

7. CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF A 30-DAY RESOLUTION

REGARDING THE CONDUCT OF TELECONFERENCED MEETINGS OF

THE CITY COUNCIL AND OTHER CITY BODIES UNDER THE MODIFIED RULES SET FORTH UNDER GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54953(E)
AB 361 was signed in to law on September 16, 2021, and immediately went into effect, authorizing local government bodies continue to meet remotely contingent on their compliance of the newly amended Government Code Section 54953. 4 In compliance with the modified rules set forth under Government Code Section 54953(e), the City Council is requested to reconsider the circumstances regarding the previously approved 30-day resolution authorizing teleconferenced meetings of the City Council and all other city bodies and either extend the authorization or terminate.

Recommendation:

It is staff's recommendation that the City Council adopt or approve the attached Resolution permitting the City to conduct public meetings virtually for all public bodies subject to the Brown Act in accordance with the requirements of AB 361, which will require reauthorization every (thirty) 30 days.

8. RESOLUTION OPPOSING TO LEGALIZE SPORTS BETTING ON

AMERICAN INDIAN LANDS INITIATIVE RELATED TO SPORTS BETTING

AT AMERICAN INDIAN GAMING CASINOS AND LICENSED

RACETRACKS IN CALIFORNIA
A new initiative, the California Legalize Sports Betting and American Indian Lands Initiative, seeks to change the Constitution to allow tribal casinos to offer sports wagering and legalize other casino games thereby expanding their gaming exclusivity for craps and roulette with no specified taxes being paid to state or local governments. This initiative would allow tribal casinos and others to hire private trial lawyers and replace the role of the Attorney General to sue their non -tribal competitors and allow frivolous lawsuits that will negatively affect cardrooms such as The Bicycle Hotel & Casino and cities that rely on the tax revenues from cardrooms.

Recommendation:

It is staff's recommendation that the City Council consider adopting the attached Resolution affirming the City's opposition to "California Legalize Sports Betting on American Indian Lands Initiative" related to sports betting at American Indian gaming casinos and licensed racetracks in California.

9. RESOLUTION TO OPPOSE STATE BALLOT MEASURE RESTRICTING

VOTERS' INPUT AND LOCAL TAXING AUTHORITY
The Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act - Initiative No. 21- 0042A1 limits the voters' input, adopts new and stricter rules for raising taxes and fees, and makes it more difficult to hold state and local law violators accountable.

Recommendation:

It is staff's recommendation that the City Council consider adopting the attached Resolution affirming the City's opposition to Initiative 21-0026A1, a State ballot measure restricting voters' input and local taxing authority.

10. AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR THE WATER, SEWER AND ELECTRICAL

UTILITY INSTALLATION FOR A PRE -FABRICATED RESTROOM AT ABC FIELD (CIP# 3906)
On March 22, 2021, City Council authorized the purchase of a Pre -Fabricated 5 Restroom for the ABC sports field adjacent to John Anson Ford Park (Ford Park).

The Public Works Department has completed the bid process for the utility installations and site preparation needed prior to the installation of the new pre -fabricated restroom structure. The project scope of work consists of furnishing all materials, equipment, tools, labor and incidental as required by the plans, specifications, and contract documents to install the water service, electrical service and sewer service to create a functioning restroom. The project also includes site improvements that provide access from the ABC field and ADA compliant access around the restroom, from the field and parking lot. On November 10, 2021 City Council authorized approved plans and specs and authorized staff to solicit bids. After cancelling the first bid process, a second notice inviting bids was issued and on January 31, 2022 three bids were received. Staff conducted a review of the apparent lowest bidder, Zusser Company, and determined that Zusser Company Inc. is the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. Therefore, staff is recommending the award of contract to Zusser Company Inc. and an appropriation of $268,385 from the general fund to cover the additional project costs.

Recommendation:

It is staff's recommendation that the City Council by motion:
1 ) Award a construction contract to Zusser Company, Incorporated, in the amount of $205,292.10 for the Water, Sewer and Electrical Utility Installation for a Pre -Fabricated Restroom at ABC Field — C.I.P. No. 3906; and
2) Authorize staff to execute the agreement and approve change orders that may be necessary during construction to cover any unforeseen condition in an amount not to exceed 10% of the construction contract; and
3) Appropriate the amount of $268,385 from the General Fund to cover the additional project costs.

11. SECOND READING AND APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE 921 - ZONING CODE AMENDMENT NO.2021-058
Conduct second reading and approve Ordinance No. 921 amending the Electronic Billboard standards pursuant to Zoning Code Amendment No. 2021-058.

Recommendation:

It is staff's recommendation that the City Council conduct the second reading and approve Ordinance No. 921 regarding Electronic Billboard Regulations and Standards pursuant to Zoning Code Amendment No. 2021-058.

12. CLAIM REJECTION
A claim was filed with the City by Aiden Lopez. Staff directed the claims to the City's general liability claims administrator Carl Warren & Company for processing, review, and investigation. Following the investigation, Carl Warren & Company and City staff determined that the City is not liable for the claims.

Recommendation:

It is staff's recommendation that the City Council reject the following claims and the N.

claimants and/or their representatives be notified:
• Aiden Lopezv. City of Bell Gardens (DOE 11/2/2021; DO 1/26/2022) The City's general liability claims administrator, Carl Warren & Company, recommends that these claims be rejected. The claimants, subject to certain exceptions, shall have up to six (6) months to file a court action subsequent to the City Council's rejection.

13. CLAIM REJECTION
A claim was filed with the City by Yessica Ramirez. Staff directed the claims to the City's general liability claims administrator Carl Warren & Company for processing, review, and investigation. Following the investigation, Carl Warren & Company and City staff determined that the City is not liable for the claims.

Recommendation:

It is staff's recommendation that the City Council reject the following claims and the claimants and/or their representatives be notified:
• Yessica Ramirez v. City of Bell Gardens (DOE 12/14/2021;DOR 12/20/2021)
The City's general liability claims administrator, Carl Warren & Company, recommends that these claims be rejected. The claimants, subject to certain exceptions, shall have up to six (6) months to file a court action subsequent to the City Council's rejection.

14. CLAIM REJECTION
A claim was filed with the City by Maria Cruz. Staff directed the claims to the City's general liability claims administrator Carl Warren & Company for processing, review, and investigation. Following the investigation, Carl Warren & Company and City staff determined that the City is not liable for the claims.

Recommendation:

It is staff's recommendation that the City Council reject the following claims and the claimants and/or their representatives be notified:
• Maria Cruzv. City of Bell Gardens (DOE 12/26/2021; DOR 1/5/2022) The City's general liability claims administrator, Carl Warren & Company, recommends that these claims be rejected. The claimants, subject to certain exceptions, shall have up to six (6) months to file a court action subsequent to the City Council's rejection.

15. CLAIM REJECTION
A claim was filed with the City by Juan & Rina Paniagua. Staff directed the claims to the City's general liability claims administrator Carl Warren & Company for 7 processing, review, and investigation. Following the investigation, Carl Warren & Company and City staff determined that the City is not liable for the claims.

Recommendation:

It is staff's recommendation that the City Council reject the following claims and the claimants and/or their representatives be notified:
• Juan & Rina Paniagua v. City of Bell Gardens (DOE 1/21/2022; DOR 1 /31 /2022)
The City's general liability claims administrator, Carl Warren & Company, recommends that these claims be rejected. The claimants, subject to certain exceptions, shall have up to six (6) months to file a court action subsequent to the City Council's rejection.

DISCUSSION (Items No. 16-17)

16. CITY COUNCIL APPOINTMENTS TO ALTERNATES TO THE LOS

ANGELES COUNTY CITY SELECTION COMMITTEE AND THE

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS

COMMITTEES
City Council Members serve on various external boards and committees, representing the City of Bell Gardens. This report provides a listing of all the boards and committees and the names of the Council Members that serve on the boards/committees. Currently there are two vacant positions for alternates to the Los Angeles County City Selection Committee and the Southeast California Association of Governments.

Recommendation:

It is staff's recommendation that the City Council appoint alternates for the Los Angeles County City Selection Committee and the Southeast California Association of Governments and update the attached matrix of Council Appointments to External Regulatory and Advisory Boards, Commissions, and Committees.

17. AQUATIC CENTER PROJECT UPDATE
On February 24, 2021, the City entered into an agreement with RJ M Design Group (RJM) for design, architecture and engineering services for the Aquatics Center at John Anson Ford Park (Ford Park). The architectural and engineering plans are 80% complete. Prior to the start of demolition and construction, several key activities must be fulfilled. This update will be followed by monthly presentations to the Aquatics Center Ad Hoc Committee to highlight the progress of the construction.

Recommendation:

It is staff's recommendation that the City Council by motion:

Receive and file the John Anson Ford Park Aquatics Center update presentation. �:3

PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON -AGENDA ITEMS UNDER THE SUBJECT

MATTER JURISDICTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
(Three minutes per person)
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: Pursuant to Government Code Section 54953, recently amended by AB 361 , and given the current health concerns, members of the public can access meetings live at https://www.bellgardens.org/i-want-to/watch-city-council-meetings . Members of the public may participate via Zoom by clicking on the City Council's Meeting Calendar on the website. (Be sure to download the Zoom App), the meeting ID is: 813 3236 4343 and the Passcode is: 2021. Comments may also be made via the zoom app by using the "Raise Hand" feature on the zoom app, when it is your turn to speak the host will unmute you. Live comments mayalso be made by call -in users on zoom bydialing (669)900-9128, when prompted enter the Webinar ID:813 3236 4343#, followed by Passcode: *2021#. During the public comments press *9, when it is your turn to speak, the user will need to dial *6 to unmute. Comments will not be accepted in the QandA/Chat function of the zoom app. Members of the public may also submit comments electronically for consideration by the City Council by sending them to [email protected]. To ensure distribution to the members of the City Council prior to consideration of the agenda, please submit comments no later than one (1) hour prior to the meeting. Those comments, as well as any comments received after, will be distributed to the members of the City Council and will be made part of the official public record of the meeting. Contact the City Clerk's office at 562-806- 7704 or the receptionist's desk at 562-806-7700 for any questions.

CITY COUNCIL MEMBER COMMENTS

ADJOURNMENT
Posted by: Jane Halstead, CIVIC, City Clerk Date: February 10, 2022

CITY OF BELL GARDENS

OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER

AG E N DA RE P O RT
Item 1.

TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Michael B. O'Kelly, City Manager
BY: Gustavo Romo, Community Development Director
SUBJECT: FINAL "DRAFT" 2021-2029 GENERAL PLAN HOUSING ELEMENT

UPDATE AND PROPOSED INITIAL STUDY/NEGATIVE DECLARATION
(FILE NO.2021-062)
DATE: February 14, 2022
RECOMMENDATION:

It is staff's recommendation that the City Council:

2. Adopt the attached Resolution (Exhibit 3), adopting the Final "Draft" 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update and approving the CEQA Initial Study/Negative Declaration.

BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION:

The Housing Element is one of the seven required elements of a City's General Plan. The General Plan serves as the local government "blueprint" for the development and growth of the City. The State of California requires the General Plan Housing Elements to be updated and certified every eight years by the State Department of Housing and Community Development ("HCD"). In many instances, the certification of a local General Plan's Housing Element is placed as a condition for cities to submit and receive State approval on grant applications and development projects.

The General Plan's Housing Element is intended to outline goals and policies consistent with the City's General Plan, as well as with State requirements and laws. The General Plan's Housing Element analyses current and projected housing needs for all economic segments of the community and includes policies and programs for providing adequate housing during the set planning period.

On January 13, 2014, the City of Bell Gardens ("City") adopted the 5th Cycle of the General Plan's Housing Element for planning period 2013-2021. Since 2017, the State has passed numerous housing bills that have substantially changed the requirements for the 6th Cycle of the General Plan's Housing Element for Planning Period 2021-2029. These changes include:
• Requirements for the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) to address not only 10 future growth but also to compensate for the lack of housing construction during the last 20 years, resulting in cost burden and overcrowding.
• Requirements for adequate sites for RHNA have been tightened to:
o Limit the use of small sites
o Add new requirements for reusing available sites from the 5th Cycle o Add new requirements for sites to be rezoned to accommodate the RHNA o Add a replacement housing requirement
o Add a by -right approval requirement for projects with 20% affordable units o Add a no -net -loss monitoring requirement to replenish the sites inventory • New requirement for affirmatively furthering fair housing that necessitates to:
o Complete an assessment of fair housing conditions
o Distribute RHNA sites in a manner that further fair housing opportunities • New program requirements to:
o Affirmatively further fair housing
o IncentivizeADUs
o Establish timelines and specific outcomes
The proposed project involves the 6th Cycle of the General Plan's Housing Element Update which covers planning period 2021-2029. This process was initiated by the City on June 5, 2020.

The completion of the 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update process involves extensive research, data collection, coordination with state agencies, public outreach, and public hearings.

As part of the public outreach required for the completion of the General Plan's Housing Element Update, the City held two community workshops. The first community workshop was held on February 17, 2021, and the second workshop on August 25, 2021. Prior to the second community workshop the "Draft" 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update was made available for public review and comment from August 17, 2021, through October 29, 2021. During the public review period, the City received comments from Public Counsel, a nonprofit law firm that represents the needs of low-income residents in the Southeast Los Angeles subregion, which includes the City of Bell Gardens. On October 7, 2021, staff along with the Housing Element consultant met with representatives from Public Counsel and another non-profit named East Yard Communities for Environmental Justice ("EYCEJ") to discuss the concerns expressed during the comment period. On September 9, 2021, the "Draft" 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update was also submitted to HCD for review. Comments from HCD were received on November 8, 2021. Staff and the Housing Element consultant addressed HCD's comments in addition to comments from Public Counsel and EYCEJ in this final draft of the Element to be presented for approval and adoption to both the Planning Commission and City Council.

In addition, pursuant to Assembly Bill 52 and prior to the release of the Initial Study/Negative Declaration, the City sent Request for Consultation Letters to five tribal groups listed below on November 11, 2021 (Exhibit 4):
• Fernandeno Tataviam Band of Mission Indians
• Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians - Kizh Nation
• San Gabriel Band of Mission Indians
• San Manuel Band of Mission Indians
• Tejon Indian Tribe
11 The intent of Consultation Letters was to provide an opportunity for interested tribal groups to provide comments on the proposed project as required by state law under AB52. Within the required 30-day noticing period, the City received responses from the Fernandeno Tataviam Band of Mission Indians and the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. Both tribal groups indicated that consultation would not be necessary as the project is located outside of their territory. The City did not receive any communication from the remaining three tribal groups.

On January 19, 2022, staff presented to the Planning Commission the "Draft" 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update and the Initial Study/Negative Declaration. The Planning Commission adopted Planning Commission Resolution #PC 2022-01 (Exhibit 5), recommending to the City Council approval of the Final "Draft" 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update and the Initial Study with proposed Negative Declaration.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:

The General Plan's Housing Element serves as a tool to address housing problems and aims to identify constraints, barriers, and provide realistic solutions where feasible. State law sets forth extensive requirements to be included in the General Plan's Housing Element. The Final "Draft" 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update is structured into five parts:

Part 1 - Introduction
This section provides an overview of the legal framework, purpose and organization of the General Plan's Housing Element, consistency with the General Plan, community profile and public participation.

Part 2 - Housing Needs Assessment
This section includes the population trends and characteristics, employment trends, household characteristics, housing inventory and market conditions, housing needs, and housing for special needs group, as well as fair housing.

Part 3 - Housing Constraints
This section discusses and analyzes the constraints of housing development in the City. The housing constraints identified in this section are state and federal regulations, environmental and infrastructure, zoning regulations, and market constraints.

Part 4 - Housing Opportunities and Resources
This section discusses the resources available for the development, rehabilitation, and preservation of housing in the City of Bell Gardens. This section also includes an analyzes on the City's ability to satisfy its share of the region's future housing need, as well as the implementation of housing policies and programs.

Part 5 - Housing Plan
This section includes goals, policies, and programs the City will have to implement to address the identified housing needs. Goals included in this section are the goals the City desires to achieve over the 6th Cycle planning period. The policies are specific statements that will guide decision making during the planning period and the programs are the core of the City's housing strategy, translating goals and policies into action.

Appendices
This section provides background data, including Community Outreach (Appendix A), Review of 12 Past Accomplishments (Appendix B), Site Inventory (Appendix C), and Assessment of Fair Housing (AFH) (Appendix D).

ANALYSIS:

Housing Site Strategy— Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) The State General Plan's Housing Element law requires that local agencies accommodate a share of the region's projected housing needs for the specified planning period. The Regional Housing Needs Allocation ("RHNA") is important because state law mandates that local agencies provide sufficient land to accommodate a variety of housing opportunities for all economic segments of the community. The Southern California Association of Governments ("SCAG") is the responsible agency for allocating RHNA numbers to local agencies in the region. Under the current planning period from June 30, 2021, through October 15, 2029, the City of Bell Gardens was allocated 503 new units. As shown on Table No. 1 below, the RHNA allocation was divided into five income categories: extremely low, very low, low, moderate, and above moderate based on the area median income (AMI).

Table No. 1 — City of Bell Gardens RHNA
Income Category
# of Units
%of Units
Extremely Low (30%AMI)l
50 9.9%
Very Low (50% AMI)
50 9.9%
Law (80%AMI)
29 5.8%
Moderate (120%AMI)
72 14.3%
Above Moderate (>120%AMI)
302

60.0%
Total Units
503
100.0%
As part of the General Plan's Housing Element Update, the State law requires cities to perform a site analysis that will identify adequate number of properly zoned sites to facilitate the production of their RHNA. To determine whether a jurisdiction has sufficient land to accommodate its share of regional housing needs for all income groups, a jurisdiction must identify a certain number of "adequate sites" defined under State law as those with appropriate zoning designations and development regulations with services and facilities needed to facilitate and encourage the development of a variety of housing for all income levels.

Chapter 4 "Housing Opportunities and Resources" in the draft Housing Element identifies a number of projects approved by the City, projects in the pipeline for development, and past trends and anticipated number of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU's) expected to be permitted to successfully meet the assigned RHNA numbers within the specified planning period. The City's objective to meet the allocation involves recycling of sites, rezoning, and the promotion of mixed - use developments and accessory dwelling units ("ADU") as shown in Table No. 2 below.

Table No. 2 — Summary of RHNA Strategies
Lower
Moderate
Above
Moderate
Total
RHNA
129
72 302
503
Entitled/Approved/Pipeline Projects
0 7
75 82
ADUs
24 2
14 40
5th Cycle Reuse Sites - Gotham Street
Vacant Sites
0 0
10 10
13 6th Cycle New Sites
0 49
206
255
R-3 Site
0 0
9 9
Mixed Use Sites
0 49
197
246
5636 Shull Street
40 58
0 98
Additional Rezone Sites
180
0 0
180
Total Capacity
244
116
305
665
Surplus/(Shortfall)
115
44 3
162
Under the current State law, the City of Bell Gardens will not be penalized if the assigned RHNA allocation is not met within the specified planning period. However, the City may be required to streamline its approval process for qualifying housing developments if the housing production falls short of the RHNA allocation.

It is important for cities to have a certified General Plan Housing Element to guarantee greater local control and eligibility for available housing grants. Cities without a certified General Plan Housing Element may be subject to fines and loss of local control until the element is brought into compliance.

Housing Programs
The Final "Draft" General Plan Housing Element also includes 17 different programs to assist the City with achieving the assigned RHNA numbers and address community housing needs such as housing conservation and improvement, housing assistance, provision of adequate housing sites, removal or revision of governmental constraints, and promotion of equal housing opportunities.

The programs contain existing, modified, and new programs the City intends to implement during the 2021-2029 planning period. Each program presents a qualified objective with intent of completing the objective by 2029. These programs are as follows:

Program 1: Code Enforcement and Community Preservation
Program 2: Preservation of Affordable Housing
Program 3: Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)
Program 4: Affordable Housing Development
Program 5: Homebuyer/ Homeowner Assistance Program
Program 6: Adequate Sites for Lower Income RHNA
Program 7: Adequate Sites for Moderate and Above Moderate Income RHNA Program 8: Monitoring of no net loss
Program 9: Lot Consolidation
Program 10: Density Bonus Ordinance
Program 11: Accessory Dwelling Units
Program 12: Housing for Special needs
Program 13: Development Standards
Program 14: Fair Housing Outreach
Program 15: Housing Mobility and Housing Choices
Program 16: Place -Based Neighborhood Improvements
Program 17: Consideration of a Rent Control Ordinance
Timeline
On January 19, 2022, the Planning Commission held a public hearing on the draft Housing Element Update. The Planning Commission's recommendation on the final adoption of the Final "Draft" General Plan Housing Element will be considered by the City Council on February 14, 14 2022. Upon completion of the adoption process, the Final "Draft" General Plan Housing Element will be transmitted to HC D for certification.

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW:

Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), an Initial Study/Negative Declaration (IS/ND) has been prepared for the project. The Initial Study concluded that there were no significant impacts on the environment associated with the adoption of the Final "Draft" Housing Element Update, therefore, a Negative Declaration was prepared and made available for public comment for a 30-day period beginning December 16, 2021, ending January 14, 2022.

In response to the Notice of Intent to adopt the Initial Study/Negative Declaration, the City received comment letters from the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) on January 4, 2022, and from Los Angeles County Fire Department on January 24, 2022. At this time, a response from the City will not be necessary under the CEQA guidelines.

In addition, on January 14, 2022, the City received a letter from East Yard Communities For Environmental Justice (EYCEJ). The letter provided comments on the Draft General Plan Housing Element and requested an Environmental Impact Report ("EIR") be prepared instead of the IS/ND. Since the Housing Element is a General Plan policy document that addresses housing needs in the City and no actual development or rezoning/redesignation of land is proposed a response from the City will not be necessary under the CEQA guidelines.

CONCLUSION:

Adoption of the attached Resolution involves the adoption of the Final "Draft" 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update, prepared pursuant to the requirements of State law and HCD comments and the approval of a Negative Declaration pursuant to an Initial Study prepared in accordance with the CEQA Guidelines. Following the City Council's adoption of Final "Draft" 2021-2029 Housing Element Update and approval of the Initial Study/Negative Declaration, the City will transmit a copy of the "Adopted" 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update to HC D for final review and certification.

FISCAL IMPACT:

None. Preparation of the Final "Draft" 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update is being funded through the SB 2 Planning Grant awarded to the City by the State. Future implementation of the policies and programs identified in the "Adopted" 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update will be addressed and allocated in the City's next Annual Budget.

ATTACHMENTS:

Exhibit 1- Final "Draft" 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update Exhibit 2- Proposed Initial Study and Negative Declaration Exhibit 3 - City Council Resolution
Exhibit 4- Request for Consultation Letters
Exhibit 5- Adopted Planning Commission Resolution #PC 2022-01 Exhibit 6- Public Hearing Notice
15 APPROVED ELECTRONICALLY BY:

Michael B. O'Kelly, City Manager
Stephanie Vasquez, Assistant CityAttorneyfor Rick R. Olivarez, City Attorney Manuel Carrillo, Director of Finance and Administrative Services 16 2021-2029 Housing Element
City of Bell Gardens
Community Development Department
7100 Garfield Avenue
Bell Gardens, CA 90201
Exhibit 1 17

Table of Contents
List of Tables .......

List of Figures ......

1. Introduction......................................................................... 1

2. Housing Needs Assessment ..................................................

3. Housing Constraints............................................................ 45 4 Housing Opportunities and Resources ................................ 81 _
5 Housing Plan..................................................................... 105
Appendix A: Community Outreach ........................................... Al Appendix B: Review of Past Accomplishments ......................... 131 Appendix C: Sites Inventory..................................................... C1 Appendix D: Assessment of Fair Housing (AFH) ........................ D1 City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
Exhibit 1 18

IrfrSiff-17
Table 2-1: Population Trends of Neighboring Jurisdictions(1980-2020).......................................9 Table 2-2: Racial/Ethnic Composition (2018)..............................................................................11 Table 2-3: Resident Employment by Industry (2018)..................................................................13 Table 2-4: Labor Force Trends (2015-2020)................................................................................13 Table 2-5: Mean Salary by Occupation — Los Angeles Region (2020)..........................................1 Table 2-6: Major Employers in Bell Gardens (2021)....................................................................1 Table 2-7: Household Growth Trends (1990-2018).....................................................................17 Table 2-8: Change in Housing Stock by Tenure(1990-2018).......................................................17 Table 2-9: Vacant Housing Units by Type(2015-2018)................................................................1 Table 2-10: Income Distribution..................................................................................................1 Table 2-11: Cost Burden in Bell Gardens.....................................................................................3 Table 2-12: Housing Unit Growth (2000-2018)...........................................................................3 Table 2-13: Units in Structure.....................................................................................................4 Table 2-14: Overcrowded Households by Tenure (2018)............................................................ 26 Table 2-15: Median Home Sale Prices (April 2020-2021)............................................................7 Table 2-16: Market Rents and HUD Fair Market Rents (2021).................................................... 28 Table 2-17: Affordable Housing Costs(2020)..............................................................................3 Table 2-18: Inventory of Publicly Assisted Affordable Rental Housing........................................31 Table 2-19: Rental Subsidies Required........................................................................................33 Table 2-20: Estimated New Construction Costs..........................................................................34 Table 2-21: Special Needs Groups in Bell Gardens......................................................................3 Table 2-22: Senior Households by Tenure................................................................................... 3 Table 2-23: Types of Disabilities by Age Group...........................................................................3 Table 2-24: Household Size by Tenure........................................................................................1 Table 2-25: Single -Parent Households........................................................................................ 42 Table 3-1: General Plan Land Use Designations.......................................................................... 50 Table 3-2: Housing Types by Residential District.........................................................................3 Table 3-3: Development Standards by Residential Zone District.................................................7 Table 3-4: Residential Parking Requirements.............................................................................. 69 Table 3-5: Fee Schedule for Residential Development................................................................7 Table 3-6: Processing Time by Development Type......................................................................7 Table 3-7: Processing Time by Process/Permit............................................................................7 Table 3-8: Disposition of Home Loan Applications ( 2017)..........................................................7 Table 4-1: 2021-2029 61" Cycle RHNA Allocation......................................................................... 82 Table 4-2: Approved and Pipeline Projects.................................................................................3 Table 4-3: Projection of ADU Activities....................................................................................... 84 Table 4-4: Credits toward RHNA.................................................................................................4 Table 4-5: Gotham Street Neighborhood —Vacant Sites............................................................. 86 Table 4-6: R-3 and MU Overlay— Nonvacant Sites...................................................................... 88 Table 4-6: Nonvacant Sites Identified for Rezoning.................................................................... 92 Table 4-6: Summary of RHNA Strategies.....................................................................................3 City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update ii
Exhibit 1 19

|
| Table S-1:Quantified Housing Objectives ................................................................................. l2G Figure 1-1:Regional location ......................................................................................................... 5 Figure 2-1:Total Population 2O1O-2O2O...................................................................................... lO Figure 2-2:Population Changes inAge Distribution (2O1O-2O7O) ............................................... l2 Figure 2-3:Households bvIncome, Percentage ofPopulation .................................................... 20 Figure 2-4:Income Distribution bvTenure .................................................................................. 21 Figure 2-S:Units inStructure (2O18)........................................................................................... 24 Figure 3-1:General Plan Land Use Map ...................................................................................... 5l Figure 3-2:Bell Gardens Zoning Map .......................................................................................... 52 Figure 4-1:Sites Inventory for RHNA........................................................................................... 94 City ofBell Gardens

This Introduction provides an overview of the legal framework and contents for the Housing Element.

The Housing Element is an integral component of the City's General Plan. It addresses existing and future housing needs of all types for persons of all economic groups in the City. The Housing Element is a tool for use by citizens and public officials in understanding and meeting the housing needs in Bell Gardens.

Recognizing the importance of providing adequate housing in all communities, the State has mandated a Housing Element within every General Plan since 1969. It is one of the seven required elements required by the State. Article 10.6, Sections 65580 — 65589.8, Chapter 3 of Division 1 of Title 7 of the Government Code set forth the legal requirements of the Housing Element and encourage the provision of affordable and decent housing in all communities to meet statewide goals. Specifically, Section 65580 states the element shall consist of "... an identification and analysis of existing and projected housing needs and a statement of goals, policies, quantified objectives, financial resources, and scheduled programs for the preservation, improvement, and development of housing." The contents of the Element must be consistent with the other elements of the General Plan [Government Code § 65300.5].

Meeting the housing needs established by the State of California is an important goal for the City of Bell Gardens. As the population of the State continues to grow and scarce resources decline, it becomes more difficult for local agencies to create adequate housing opportunities while maintaining a high standard of living for all citizens in the community. State law recognizes that housing needs may exceed available resources and, therefore, does not require that the City's quantified objectives be identical to the identified housing needs. This recognition of limitations is critical, especially during this period of financial uncertainties in both the public and private sectors.

Section 65583(b)(2) states, "It is recognized that the total housing needs ... may exceed available resources and the City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
1 Exhibit 1 21

community's ability to satisfy this need within the content of the general plan requirements ... Under these circumstances, the quantified objectives need not be identical to the total housing needs. The quantified objectives shall establish the maximum number of housing units by income category, including
extremely low income, that can be constructed, rehabilitated, and conserved..."
This Housing Element (2021-2029) was created in compliance with State General Plan law pertaining to Housing Elements.

The State of California has declared that "the availability of housing is of vital statewide importance and the early attainment of decent housing and a suitable living environment for every California family is a priority of the highest order." In addition, government and the private sector should make an effort to provide a diversity of housing opportunities and accommodate regional housing needs through a cooperative effort, while maintaining a responsibility toward economic, environmental, and fiscal factors and community goals within the General Plan. Further, State Housing Element law requires "An assessment of housing needs and an inventory of resources and constraints relevant to the meeting of these needs." The law requires:
• An analysis of population and employment trends;
• An analysis of household characteristics;
• An inventory of suitable land for residential development; • An identification of a zone or zones where emergency
shelters are permitted by right;
• An analysis of the governmental and non -governmental constraints on the improvement, maintenance and
development of housing;
• An analysis of special housing needs;
• An analysis of opportunities for energy conservation; and • An analysis of publicly assisted housing developments that may convert to non -assisted housing developments.

The purpose of these requirements is to develop an understanding of the existing and projected housing needs within the community and to set forth policies and schedules, which promote
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
K
Exhibit 1 22

preservation, improvement and development of diverse types and costs of housing throughout Bell Gardens.

The Housing Element is generally organized according to the data and analyses required by State law:
• Chapter 1: Introduction
• Chapter 2: Housing Needs Assessment
• Chapter 3: Housing Constraints
• Chapter 4: Housing Resources
• Chapter 5: Housing Action Plan
A review of the City's accomplishments in implementing the previous Housing Element is included as an appendix.

California Government Code requires that "the General Plan and the parts and elements thereof shall comprise an integrated and internally consistent and compatible statement of policies." The purpose of requiring internal consistency is to avoid policy conflict and provide a clear policy guide for the future maintenance, improvement, and development of housing within the City.

This Housing Element recommends specific changes to the Land Use Element in order to meet the needs of the community. The City will amend the Land Use Element within three years to implement this recommendation. The City will also be updating the Safety Element pursuant to State law. As individual elements of the General Plan are updated in the future, the City will ensure internal consistency among the various General Plan Elements.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
3 Exhibit 1 23

Various sources of information were used to prepare the Housing Element. The 2018 American Community Survey (ACS) 1 five-year estimates provide the basis for population, household, and demographic characteristics. Several data sources were used to supplement and update the 2018 ACS and 2010 Census as follows:
• Pre -Certified Local Housing Data by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG);
• Housing market information, such as home sales, rents, and vacancies, is updated with real estate data;
• Public and nonprofit agencies are consulted for data on special needs groups, the services available to them, and gaps in the system; and
• Lending patterns for home purchase and home
improvement loans are provided through the Home
Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) database.

The City was incorporated as a general law city in 1961, and at the time of incorporation, the City's population was approximately 27,000. The City of Bell Gardens has a total land area of 1,536 acres, or 2.4 square miles. According to the 2018 ACS five-year estimates, there were 9,877 housing units in the City and a population of 42,449. The demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of the City are described in more detail in Section 2 of this Housing Element Update.

The City of Bell Gardens is located in the southern portion of Los Angeles County, approximately 13 miles southeast of the Los Angeles Civic Center. The City is bounded by the City of Commerce on the north, Downey on the east, South Gate on the south, and the Cities of Bell and Cudahy on the west. The City's corporate boundaries are generally delineated by man-made barriers, including the Southern Pacific Railroad to the north, the Rio Hondo 1 The Census collects detailed household and demographic information through a series of smaller surveys known as the American Community Surveys (ACS). Different data are collected every one, three, or five years and vary depending on the size of the jurisdiction. Results are averages over the survey timeframe. Therefore, multiple ACS datasets are used in this Housing Element, depending on the specific variable in question.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
4 Exhibit 1 24

River flood control channel to the east, and the Los Angeles River flood control channel and Interstate 710 to the west.

While the City is built out, efforts to provide adequate and affordable housing continues to be a priority of the City. This Housing Element Update seeks to address the challenges of further providing quality housing for all income levels.

Figure 1-1: Regional location
California Law requires that local governments make a diligent effort to engage public participation. Throughout the course of the preparation of this Housing Element Update, the City made a diligent effort to involve the public in the Housing Element's development. The City compiled a comprehensive list of key stakeholders, including service providers and potentially interested public agencies.

The City conducted public workshops before the Planning Commission on February 17, 2021 and August 25, 2021. The first meeting in February 2021 was held via a webinar and the second City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
6,1
Exhibit 1 25

meeting in August 2021 was held as a teleconference due to pandemic social distance requirements.

The City posted information in English and Spanish inviting the public to the Housing Element Workshops on social media outlets and the City's website. In addition, the City mailed postcards/flyers to local agencies and organizations, inviting their participation in the Housing Element Update process and to the Workshops. These agencies and organizations include housing professionals, housing developers, and service providers that cater to the needs of lower - and moderate -income households and those with special housing needs.

During the February 2021 meeting, a general presentation on Housing Element Update requirements and demographic
information regarding the City was given. Comments provided at the meeting included:
• Discussion about potential sites;
• City surplus land opportunities;
• Mixed use site opportunities;
• Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs); and
• Developer outreach efforts.

In response to these comments, the Housing Element identifies opportunities for mixed use development and includes programs to facilitate mixed use development and ADUs in the community.

The Draft Housing Element was available for public review between August 17 and October 29, 2021. Prior to submitting the Draft Housing Element to the State Department of Housing and
Community Development (HCD) for the mandatory review, the City conducted a review of the Draft Housing Element before the Planning Commission at a special meeting on August 25, 2021. The Draft Housing Element was submitted to HCD on September 9, 2021.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
N.

Exhibit 1 26

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
Exhibit 1 27

�•11 1 A I " , , , ., � � 11 - I i
This section provides an overview of the key housing needs in Bell Gardens based on demographic, socioeconomic, housing stock, and special need characteristics. These trends and community characteristics are a foundation for developing responsive housing goals, policies, and programs.

An assessment of the community's demographic and housing characteristics is necessary in order to address the specific housing needs of present and future Bell Gardens residents. The community profile serves as a foundation from which future housing objectives and recommendations may be developed.

These objectives provide direction for City programs that intend to meet local housing needs and to provide a fair share of regional affordable housing.

In context, this section of the Housing Element Update considers the following:
• Demographic Characteristics, including population growth trends in the City, age characteristics, ethnicity, and household characteristics;
• Economic Characteristics, describing economic and market factors relevant to the maintenance of existing housing and the need for production of new housing in the City;
• Neighborhood and Housing Profile, focusing on trends in residential development, housing unit types, and housing tenure; and,
• Special Needs, including a discussion of City residents that have special housing requirements.

Demographic changes, such as rapid population growth or changes in the racial and ethnic composition of a community, may affect a household's access to housing. Factors such as age, cultural preference, household size, occupation, and income influence the type of housing needed and the ability of existing and future City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
E3
Exhibit 1 28

residents to afford housing. Understanding the characteristics of a population is vital in the process of planning for the future needs of a community. The following section describes and analyzes the various population characteristics and trends that affect housing needs in Bell Gardens.

2.2.1 Population Growth and Trends
From its roots as a ranch and farming community, Bell Gardens has evolved into a vibrant, family -oriented city. By the 1930s, the Bell Gardens area became an important residential area. Similar to most Southern California cities, Bell Gardens experienced a post - World War II housing boom. The defense plants of the 1940s brought prosperity to the region and Bell Gardens became largely developed with single-family homes, bungalow courts, and strip commercial development along major arterials. The dramatic increase in the City's population during the 1960s was due both to an increased average household size and a population growth trend that reflected national trends during that period. By 1961, with a population of close to 27,000 persons, the City of Bell Gardens was incorporated. In recent decades, population growth in Bell Gardens has slowed dramatically, since much of the area within the City's jurisdiction is now fully developed (Table -1).

Table 2-1: Population Trends of Neighboring Jurisdictions (1980-2020) Jurisdiction
1980
1990
2000
2010
2020
Percent Change
1980-
1990
1990-
2000
2000-
2010
2010-
2020
Bell
24,450
34,365
36,664
35,477
36,531

40.6%

6.7%
-3.2%

3.0%
Bell Gardens
34,117
42,315
44,054
42,072
42,449

24.0%

4.1%
-4.5%

0.9%
Huntington Park
46,223
56,065
61,348
58,114
59,515

21.3%

9.4%
-5.3%

2.4%
Maywood
21,810
27,893
28,083
27,395
27,904

27.9%

0.7%
-2.5%

1.9%
South Gate
66,784
86,284
96,375
94,396
97,003

29.2%

11.7%
-2 1%
2 8%
Los Angeles County
7,477,503
8,863,164
9,519,338
9,818,605
10,172,951

18.5%

7.4%

3.1%

3.6%
Sources: California Department of Finance E-5 Report, 2010-2020.

American Community Survey (ACS) 2018, five-year estimates.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
Exhibit 1 29

43,000
42,750
2,500
42,250
,000
Figure 2-1: Total Population 2010-2020
42,126
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
Sources:

1. California Department of Finance E-5 Report, 2010-2020.

2. ACS 2018, five-year estimates
The 2018 American Community Survey (ACS) recorded the City's population at 42,449 persons, an increase of 0.9% from 2010 to 2021. Los Angeles County as a whole had a population increase of approximately 3.6% during the same time period.

Due to the built -out nature of the City, the population is projected to nominally increase in the future. The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) prepared anticipated
population projections when developing the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) goals. SCAG forecasts a population growth of 1.04% over the next 25 years with an estimated Bell Gardens population of approximately 44,300 in 2045.

2.2.2 Race and Ethnicity
The City of Bell Gardens is a densely populated and culturally diverse community. According to the 2018 ACS, 95.6% of the residents in Bell Gardens are Hispanic. A key aspect of Bell Gardens is its foreign -born population, which comprises 42.9% of the City's residents. These households often include extended or multi - generational families, and tend to have more modest incomes than City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
10 Exhibit 1 30

native-born residents. Furthermore, communities with a high proportion of Hispanic households tend to have a larger average household size due to the cultural practice of living with extended family members.

Table 2-2: Racial/Ethnic Composition (2018)
Bell Gardens
Los Angeles County
Persons
% of Total
Persons
% of Total
White
1,142

2.6%
2,620,206.92

26.1%
Asian
357

0.8%
1,546,022.47

15.4%
Black
275

0.6%
903,519.63

9.0%
Other
89 0.2%
90,351.96

0.9%
Hispanic
40,778

95.6%
4,879,006.00

48.6%
Source: ACS 2018, five-year estimates

2.2.3 Age Characteristics
Bell Gardens' current and future housing needs are determined in part by the age characteristics of residents in the community. Each age group has distinct lifestyles, income levels, and family types that influence housing preferences. As these housing choices evolve as people move through each stage of life, it is important to examine changes in the age structure of Bell Gardens' residents in order to identify any potential impacts on housing needs. Figure 2-2 shows a decrease of every age demographic, with the exception of children under 18 years of age.

The age distribution of Bell Gardens reflects a community of primarily young families with children. The decrease in family - forming adults along with an increase in children reflects families having more children, which will likely continue to place a strong demand on larger units to accommodate the growing families.

With the aging of the baby boom population, Bell Gardens can expect to see a modest decrease in a demand for senior housing as baby boomers continue aging into their later years, and a continued increase in the number of young families in the community.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
11 Exhibit 1 31

Figure 2-2: Population Changes in Age Distribution (2010-2020) M !4n
M
N
Under 18 1,8 to 24 25 to 44 45 to 64 65 and over
Source: ACS 2018, five-year estimates
A variety of economic characteristics influence the need for housing and the ability to afford housing. These characteristics include the jobs available in the community, resident occupations, and incomes earned by different types of households.

2.3.1 Economic Trends and Projections
Highly correlated to household income, employment has an important impact on housing needs. Higher -paying jobs provide broader housing opportunities for residents, while lower -paying jobs limit housing options. In addition, employment growth is a major factor affecting the demand for housing in a community.

Table -3 provides detailed employment information. The most prevalent industry is Manufacturing with 3,198 employees representing 17.7% of the total working individuals. The second most prevalent industry is Retail trade with 2,723 employees representing 15% of working individuals.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
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Table 2-3: Resident Employment by Industry (2018)
Industry Type
Number
Percent
Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting, and Mining
103

0.6%
Construction
1,365

7.5%
Manufacturing
3,198

17.7%
Wholesale trade
1,138

6.3%
Retail trade
2,723

15.0%
Transportation, Warehousing, and Utilities
1,872

10.3%
Information
288

1.5%
Finance, Insurance, Real Estate, Rental, and Leasing
485

2.6%
Professional, Scientific, Management, and Administration 1,396

7.7%
Educational, Health and Social services
2,346

12.9%
Arts, Entertainment, Recreation, and Services
1,948

10.7%
Other services
1,021

5.6%
Public Administration
180

1.0%
Source: ACS 2018, five-year estimates.

Table 2-4 shows the Bell Gardens' labor force. According to the State of California Employment Development Department (EDD), the City's labor force is estimated at approximately 18,500 persons, with 17,600 employed.

Table 2-4: Labor Force Trends (2015-2020)
Year
Labor
Force
Employment
Unemployment
Unemployment
Rate
2015
18,200
16,500
1,600
9 %
2016
17,800
16,700
1,100

6.1%
2017
18,000
17,000
1,000

5.3%
2018
18,000
17,100
900

5.1%
2019
18,100
17,200
900

5.2%
2020
18,500
17,600
900

4.9%
Source: State of California Employment Development Department (EDD), 2015-2020 January Unemployment rates.

The unemployment rate in Bell Gardens for March 2021 was recorded at 13%, which was higher than the 11.3% unemployment rate for the County of Los Angeles.

The higher unemployment rates are due to the current Covid-19 pandemic. Prior to the pandemic, the unemployment rates for Los Angeles County were approximately 5%. At the height of the pandemic, unemployment rates reached as high as 18% county- wide. It is anticipated that the unemployment rate will continue to decrease as the economy continues to reopen.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
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Table 2-5 displays mean annual wage data for occupations compiled by the California Employment Development Department (EDD) for the Los Angeles Metropolitan Statistical Area. Healthcare and professional service occupations such as Management, Legal, Architecture, and Engineering service occupations are among the highest paying in the region.

Table 2-5: Mean Salary by Occupation — Los Angeles Region (2020)
Occupations
Average Salary
Legal
$137,890
Management
$140,130
Architecture and Engineering
$101,910
Healthcare Practitioners and Technical
$102,480
Computer and Mathematical
$100,900
Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, and Media
$86,620
Business and Financial Operations
$85,160
Life, Physical, and Social Science
$90,480
Education, Training, and Library
$73,530
Protective Service
$63,010
Community and Social Service
$61,880
Construction and Extraction
$63,600
Installation, Maintenance, and Repair
$58,610
Sales
$49,140
Office and Administrative Support
$47,170
Transportation and Material Moving
$42,080
Production (Manufacturing)
$41,780
Healthcare Support
$34,190
Building, Grounds Cleaning, and Maintenance
$38,110
Personal Care and Service
$38,660
Farming, Fishing, and Forestry
$36,010
Food Preparation and Serving Related
$32,140
All Occupations
$63,660
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates, 2020.

Table 2-6 identifies major employers in Bell Gardens with 50 or more employees. Not reflected in this listing of large employers are the numerous small business retailers, which comprise nearly one-third of the City's business establishments.

City of Bell Gardens
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Table 2-6: Major Employers in Bell Gardens (2021)
Rank
Name
Type
Employees
1 The Bicycle Casino LP
Leisure and Hospitality
1,600
2 Briarcrest Nursing Center
Healthcare
250
3 Villa Del Rio Inc.

Healthcare
240
4 First Class Vending Inc.

Vending Services
150
5 Metal Surfaces International LLC
Metal Manufacturer
120
6 Wei-Chuan USA. Inc.

Food Distributor
100
7 Food 4 Less #307
Grocery Store
87 8
Parkhouse Tire Inc.

Tire Installation &
Repair
86 9
DCX-CHOL Enterprises Inc.

Manufacturing
70 10
Ross Dress For Less #981
Retail
65 11
Sole Transport L.C.

Fuel Distributer
63 12
Redondo Enterprises LLC
(McDonalds)
Fast Food
61 13
Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar
Restaurant
60 14
Parkhouse Tire Inc.

Tire Installation &
Repair
52 15
Knighted Ventures LLC
Leisure and Hospitality
50 16
Majesty Partners LLC
Leisure and Hospitality
50 17
Wilcox Machine Company
Machining and
Engineering
50 Source: City of Bell Gardens, 2021
In terms of the local retail market, Bell Gardens is recognized as a regional shopping destination because a significant amount of taxable sales are from nonresidents. The Downtown area at Florence Avenue and Eastern Avenue is the City's main commercial attraction, and is widely known throughout the surrounding community as a commercial, entertainment, and social center. The City's economy is dominated by leisure and hospitality, education and health, retail, and manufacturing industries.

The City also encourages mixed -use development to facilitate housing conveniently located to local jobs and job centers. The 1995 General Plan Land Use Map Designation has concentrated areas of mixed -use on parts of Eastern Avenue and parts of Gage Avenue. Mixed -use refers to a combination of commercial and residential uses to provide the community with much needed affordable housing and commercial facilities. It is essential for the City to take into consideration how employment and housing opportunities are interrelated. A balance between housing and jobs can reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and provide adequate labor supply for local businesses in Bell Gardens. Bell City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
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Gardens is a desirable place for housing, given the City's centralized location in Los Angeles County. Bell Gardens residents have direct access to Interstate 710 that connects the Greater Los Angeles area to the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. Various industrial hubs along 1-710, including the City's industrial areas, provide valuable manufacturing jobs to Bell Gardens.

Neighborhood and housing characteristics define the nature of housing needs in Bell Gardens. This section analyzes housing growth patterns, housing characteristics, tenure and vacancy trends, housing prices, and affordability. These characteristics are important in determining the housing needs for the City of Bell Gardens in order to identify how well the current housing stock meets the needs of current and future residents.

2.4.1 Neighborhood Characteristics
Bell Gardens has over 732.5 acres designated as residential land use, encompassing 59% of the City's total area. Few residential areas have retained their identity as lower density residential areas, despite historic development practices. The majority of residential neighborhoods zoned high -density residential (R-3) are redeveloped as a mix of single-family, duplex, triplex, and multiple - family developments.

2.4.2 Household Characteristics
The Census defines a household as all persons who occupy a housing unit. Given this definition, single persons living alone, families related through marriage or blood, and unrelated individuals living together all constitute a household. Persons living in retirement or convalescent homes, dormitories, or other group living situations are not considered households.

Household type and size, income levels, the presence of special needs populations, and other household characteristics determine the type of housing needed by residents, their preferences, and their ability to obtain housing that meets their needs. For example, residents of single -person households are often seniors or young adults, who tend to reside in apartment units or smaller single- family homes. Families typically prefer and occupy single-family City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
16 Exhibit 1 36

homes. This section details the various household characteristics affecting housing needs. Table -7 shows the household growth trends for the City of Bell Gardens since 1990.

Table 2-7: Household Growth Trends (1990-2018)
Year
Households
Numerical Change
Percent Change
1990
9,244
--
--
2000
9,466
222

2.4%
2010
9,655
189

2.0%
2018
9,663
8 0.1%
Source: ACS 2018, five-year estimates
Housing Tenure
A variety of homeownership and rental housing opportunities allow for residents and their children to live in Bell Gardens throughout their lives — as their families grow, as children leave home, and as individuals approach retirement. According to the 2018 American Community Survey (ACS), the City consists of 77.8% renter -occupied units, with the remaining 22.2% owner -occupied.

Although many residents first enter the housing market as renters, many will aspire to establish greater permanency in the community. The demand for homeownership opportunities is strong among first- and second -generation residents.

Homeownership can provide financial independence, economic stability, and personal safety. Home investment and pride in ownership also contribute to high quality neighborhoods and stability. Offering both rental and affordable homeownership opportunities for Bell Gardens residents remains a top priority for the City.

Table 2-8: Change in Housing Stock by Tenure (1990-2018) Resident Type
1990
2000
2010
2018
Owner -Occupied
2,082
23%
2,252
24%
2,318
24%
2,146
22%
Renter -Occupied
7,162
77%
7,214
76%
7,337
76%
7,517
78%
Total Households
9,244
100%
9,466
100%
9,655
100%
9,663
100%
Source: ACS 2018, five-year estimates
According to the 2018 ACS, the City had a total of 9,877 housing units, with 9,663 units being occupied by households. Between 2010 and 2018, the number of households in the City increased by City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
17 Exhibit 1 37

8, or 0.1%. By comparison, the City's population increased by 0.9% during this time period. However, the composition of the City's households has not significantly changed in the previous decade. Bell Gardens' households are still predominantly families, which comprise 89% of households. Nonfamily households, which consist of single or unrelated persons sharing housing, comprise 11% of the City's households. The residents in the City of Bell Gardens are primarily lower income suburban immigrant families that work in service or skill -based jobs with limited disposable income. Most have a high school education or lower, and some own their homes.

Housing Vacancy
An adequate supply of housing is essential to maintaining sufficient choices for residents, moderating housing prices, and encouraging the normal maintenance of properties. Low vacancy rates result in price and rent escalation, while excess vacancy rates result in price depreciation, rent declines, and deferred maintenance. Although market forces are beyond the control of any one city, maintaining an optimal balance of housing supply and demand is a desirable goa I.

Table 2-9 shows the total number of vacant housing units in the City by tenure. Of the 9,877 total units in the City, 214 units have been identified as vacant. As a household is defined by the 2018 ACS as an occupied housing unit, the City had 9,663 households.

Table 2-9: Vacant Housing Units by Type (2015-2018)
Type of Vacancy
Vacant Units
Rental Vacancy
214
Homeowner Vacancy
0 Tota 1
214
Source: ACS 2018, five-year estimates
The building industry assumes that vacancy rates of 2% for ownership housing and 5% for rental housing are optimal and offers a variety of choices for residents. According to the 2018 ACS, the homeowner vacancy rate in Bell Gardens was 0% while the rental vacancy rate was 2.2%, significantly below optimum rates.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
18 Exhibit 1 38

Household Size
Bell Gardens continues to have an average household size that is substantially greater than that of the County of Los Angeles as a whole. In 2018, the County had an average of 2.96 persons per household. The City's average household size in 2018 was 4.37 persons. The average household size for owner -occupied housing in Bell Gardens was 4.5, compared to 4.33 persons for renter - occupied housing.

According to the 2018 ACS, approximately 41% of Bell Gardens households have three people or fewer. About 7% of the City's households are single -person households, which is much lower than the County share of 25.6%. About 35% of all households in the City have at least five people or more.

Changes in household type and size significantly affect the need for different types of housing. The increase in family households with children will continue to result in a high demand for larger units that are well suited to accommodate children. Increasing the overall supply of housing may provide opportunities for these family households and help alleviate some of the overcrowding pressures in the City. At the same time, providing more housing opportunities for the aging baby boomers will allow seniors to move out of their oversized homes and into smaller units within their community, increasing the single-family housing stock.

2.4.3 Household Income
Household income is the most crucial factor in evaluating the size and type of housing available for any given household since income leads directly to the ability of households to balance housing costs with other basic necessities. Household income levels are often correlated with certain demographic factors, including race, gender, and household type. While housing choices, such as tenure and location of residences are income -dependent, household size and type affect the proportion of income that can be spent on housing.

Income Distribution
According to the 2018 ACS, the median household income reported for Bell Gardens residents was $42,223. However, median household income only provides partial insight into a community's City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
19 Exhibit 1 39

income profile. As shown in Figure 2-3, a more detailed breakdown of households by income category can provide more information about the proportion of households in Bell Gardens whose limited incomes may lead to a higher incidence of housing problems such as overpayment (paying more than 30% of income on housing) or overcrowding (having more than one person per room). Between 2010 and 2018, about 59% of households earned less than $50,000. About 30% of households earned between $50,000 and $100, 000.

Figure 2-3: Households by Income, Percentage of Population II Less than ,y MIA M
1111, I
O to ra I N M M
$50,000 to tix M M. 9A M
1OJ�!JC!:1
00 Source: ACS 2018, five-year estimates
N�w �iY MGM N
For planning and funding purposes, the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) uses five income categories to determine housing affordability and need: extremely low, very low, low, moderate, and above moderate income households. These terms are used throughout this Housing Element Update. For purposes of the Housing Element Update, the HCD utilizes the following income groups described as a percentage of Area Median Income (AMI):
• Extremely Low 0-30% AMI
• Very Low 31-50% AMI
• Low 51-80% AMI
• Moderate 81-120% AMI
• Above Moderate 120%+ AMI
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
20 Exhibit 1 40

Table 2-10: Income Distribution
2020
Percent of
Income
Los
Income
Bell
Median Family
Limits
Angeles
Category
Gardens
Income (AMI)
(4-person
County
household)
Very Low
0 % to 50% AMI
$56,300
36%
26%
Low
51% to 80% AMI
$90,100
27%
15%
Moderate
81% to 120% AMI
$92,750
19%
16%
Above Moderate
121% +AMI
>$92,751
19%
43%
Sources:

1. California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), 2020 income limits

2. Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) income distribution As shown in r_- renter -households in Bell Gardens were relatively evenly distributed among the lower income groups.

However, owner- households had proportionally more households toward the moderate and above moderate income levels.
m
M
2,500
111
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
Figure 2-4: Income Distribution by Tenure
111 Extremely Low IUlyyl Very Low INS Low Moderate/Above Moderate Renter Owner
Income Group
Renter
Owner
Moderate/Above Moderate
920
1,769
Low
1,650
2,204
Very Low
2,340
2,729
Extremely Low
2,605
2,955
Source: Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS), 2013-2017 21 Exhibit 1 41

On average, renters in all income categories spend a greater proportion of their incomes for housing than do homeowners, and thus face greater financial obstacles in securing decent, affordable housing. According to 2013-2017 CHAS data, 59% of renter - households experienced at least one housing problem compared to only 12% of owner -households. CHAS data also found that large renter -households experienced the greatest rate of housing problems (91%). CHAS defines housing problems as below:
1) Paying over 30 percent of their income on housing cost; 2) Inadequate housing (i.e., lacking a complete kitchen or plumbing facilities); or
3) Overcrowding (i.e., occupied by more than one person per room, excluding kitchens and bathrooms).

Cost Burden
Cost burden refers to a household that pays more than 30% of gross income for housing costs. Moderate cost burden refers to payments between 30% to 50% of gross income; severe cost burden refers to payments exceeding 50%. The extent of cost burden in Bell Gardens is presented in Table -11.

As shown in Table -11, renter -occupied households are more likely to experience cost burden (76% compared to 54% of owner - occupied households). In addition, 28% of total households in the City are experiencing a severe housing cost burden (spending more than 50% of their income on housing).

Approximately 30% of the City's total households fall within the extremely low income category. Overall, 91% of the total households within this category have experienced a problem with cost burden. Renter -occupied households are more likely to experience any housing problem (76%) than owner -occupied households (54%). Overall, 58% of the total households experience a housing cost burden greater than 30%, while 28% experience the same issue greater than 50%.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
22 Exhibit 1 42

Table 2-11: Cost Burden in Bell Gardens
Income Category
Total Owners
Total Renters
Total Households
Households
%
Households
%
Households
Extremely Low Income (< 30% AMI)
350
100%
2,605
100%
2,955
100%
%with any housing problems
270
77%
2,435
93%
2,705
91%
• Cost burden than 30%
265
75%
2,415
92%
2,680
90%
• Cost burden greater than 50%
190
54%
1,960
75%
2,150
72%
Very Low Household Income (30-50% AMI)
389
100%
2,340
100%
2,729
100%
%with any housing problems
245
62%
2,105
89%
2,350
86%
• Cost burden than 30%
203
52%
1,845
78%
2,048
75%
• Cost burden greater than 50%
135
34%
390
16%
525
19%
Low Household Income (50-80% AMI)
554
100%
1,650
100%
2,204
100%
%with any housing problems
304
54%
895
54%
1,199
54%
• Cost burden than 30%
266
48%
435
26%
701
31%
• Cost burden greater than 50%
104
18%
15 0.0%
119
5%
Total Households
2,142
100%
7,515
100%
9,657
100%
%with any housing problems
11178
54%
5,714
76%
6,892
71%
• Cost burden than 30%
892
41%
4,715
62%
5,607
58%
Cost burden greater than 50%
429
20%
2,365
31%
21794
28%
Note: The CHAS data is based on sample data collected through the American Community Survey (ACS) and therefore, the household numbers deviate from the 2019 Census.

Source: CHAS, 2013-2017

2.4.4 Housing Supply
Housing Production and Growth
Bell Gardens has experienced minimal housing growth since 2000.

According to the 2014-2018 ACS, the City has a housing stock of 9,984 units, representing a 2% increase from 2000. Overall, housing growth in nearby jurisdictions has also been limited.

Table 2-12: Housing Unit Growth (2000-2018)
2000
2018
Percent Change
Bell
9,215
9,298

0.9%
Bell Gardens
9,788
9,984

2.0%
Huntington Park
15,335
15,228
-0.7%
Maywood
6,701
6,768

1.0%
South Gate
24,269
24,540

1.1%
Los Angeles County
3,270,909
3,590,574

9.8%
Source: ACS 2018, five-year estimates
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
23 Exhibit 1 43

Housing Unit Type and Size
Multiple -family units make up only 22% of the City's housing stock.

The vast majority of the City's housing consists of single-family units (74%). Mobile homes make up the remaining 4% of housing in Bell Gardens. The variety of housing unit types produces a diverse residential neighborhood in the City. Given that 76% of the City's occupied units were renter -occupied, it can be inferred that a significant portion of the City's single-family homes are being used as rentals.

Figure 2-5: Units in Structure (2018)
Table 2-13: Units in Structure
Total Housing Units
9,984
1, Detached
5,863
1, Attached
1,525
Duplex
404
3 or 4 Units
569
5+ Units
1,223
Mobile Home
400
Boat, RV, Van, etc.
0 Source: ACS 2018, five-year estimates
As the population increased and housing needs became more varied, the City's housing stock began to diversify. There has been an increase in the construction of additional housing units on lots developed with existing single-family residences. It is important to note that most residential properties in Bell Gardens have multiple City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
24 Exhibit 1 44

single-family units on one lot. Typically, an average Bell Gardens lot (approximately 50 feet wide and 150 feet deep) contains two to four single-family detached units, depending on the density allowances permitted.

Housing Age and Condition
The Community Development Department (CDD) considers
housing units in compliance with the City's building codes to be standard units. Any housing unit that does not meet these requirements is considered substandard. Substandard units are considered suitable for rehabilitation if they are structurally sound and can be rehabilitated at a cost not to exceed 50 percent of the projected market value of the housing after
rehabilitation. Common housing code violations make a unit unsafe and/or unsanitary, including problems with wiring, roofs and exterior, heating and air conditioning systems, plumbing, and windows.

Often, a structure's age correlates to its need for
rehabilitation. Housing is subject to gradual deterioration over time. If a property is not regularly maintained, housing can deteriorate and discourage reinvestment, reduce neighboring property values, and impact the quality of life. As a general rule in the housing industry, structures older than 30 years begin to show signs of deterioration and require reinvestment to maintain quality.

According to the 2018 ACS, 80% of the units in the City were built before 1979. Housing built before 1979 could potentially have lead - based paint in addition to the rehabilitation needs of a typical unit more than 40 years of age.

According to the City's Building and Safety Division, there were 343 housing rehabilitation cases opened from 2013-2020 related to housing stock conditions. As of November 2020, the City's Building Official estimates that 20% of homes are in need of substantial rehabilitation. Homeowners must continue to invest in updating and expanding their homes in order to maintain and preserve the City's older housing stock.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
25 Exhibit 1 45

Overcrowding
Overcrowding is defined as a housing unit occupied by more than one person per room (including bedrooms, living and dining rooms, but excluding kitchens and bathrooms). Units with more than 1.5 persons per room are considered severely overcrowded.

Overcrowding increases health and safety concerns and stresses the condition of the housing stock and infrastructure. Typically, this housing problem occurs when there are not enough
adequately sized units within a community. High housing costs force individuals to share housing units or families to reside in smaller units. Overcrowding tends to accelerate the deterioration of housing. Maintaining reasonable levels of occupancy and alleviating overcrowding are critical to enhancing quality of life.

Table -14 identifies all overcrowded households in Bell Gardens by tenure. According to the 2018 ACS, there is an extremely high level of overcrowding in the City with 29% of occupied housing units with more than one person per room. Renter -occupied units in the City were much more likely to be overcrowded. About 22% of the City's owner -occupied units were overcrowded compared to 31% of renter -occupied units. In 2018, the number of persons per household in the City of Bell Gardens was approximately 4.33.

Table 2-14: Overcrowded Households by Tenure (2018)
Occupants
Per Room
Owner
Renter
Total
Units
% of Total
Units
% of Total
Units
% of Total

0.5 or less
503
24%
1,285
17%
1,788
18%

0.51 to 1.00
1,131
54%
4,021
52%
5,152
52%
Not Crowded
1,634
78%
5,306
69%
6,940
71%

1.01 to 1.50
376
18%
1,753
23%
2,129
22%

1.51 to 2.00
27 1%
532
7%
559
6%

2.01 or more
19 1%
135
j 2%
j 154
2%
Overcrowded
463
22%
1 2,420
1 31%
1 2,883
29%
Source: ACS 2018, five-year estimates
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
26 Exhibit 1 46

2.4.5 Housing Prices and Affordability
Affordability is determined by comparing the cost of housing to the income of local households. If the costs are high relative to the incomes, housing problems such as overcrowding and cost burden are more likely to occur. This section details the costs of housing in Bell Gardens and examines the overall affordability of housing within the City.

Housing Prices and Rents
As in other areas of the Los Angeles Basin, housing costs are quite high, though relative to surrounding communities (Bell, Commerce, Cudahy, and South Gate) the overall cost for housing in Bell Gardens is comparable. Even with a return to real estate for smaller -size dwelling units, it can be seen that the cost of ownership housing in the City excludes a large proportion of the population from the ownership housing market. According to SCAG's pre -certified local housing data, between 2000 and 2018 median home sale prices in the City increased 177%, jumping from $145,000 to approximately $400,000. The peak of the housing market was in 2007 when Bell Gardens median home price was $452,500. The market fell from 2007 to 2013 during a recession and has steadily recovered since 2013.

A search on Zillow.com identified the typical home value in Bell Gardens (as of April 2021) was $539,799. Table 2-15 shows median home prices for the City and surrounding jurisdictions. Between April 2020 and April 2021, there was a 7.7% incline in the City's median home sale price. This increase is slightly below that of nearby cities and the County.

Table 2-15: Median Home Sale Prices (April 2020-2021)
2020
2021
% Change
Bell
$476,465
$528,232

9.8%
Bell Gardens
$498,215
$539,779

7.7%
Commerce
$494,000
$532,293

7.7%
Downey
$609,424
$671,172

9.2%
South Gate
$484,610
$539,655

10.2%
Los Angeles County
$669,477
$748,020

10.5%
Source: Zillow.com
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
27 Exhibit 1 47

While some vacant property is available for new residential development, the majority of the new residential construction will occur on land that is presently developed. The demolition, removal, and cleanup of these existing properties contribute to the cost of development.

The Los Angeles County Development Authority (LACDA) rental search tool was used to sample rental properties available in the City of Bell Gardens (Table -1). On average, three -bedroom condominiums were available at a cost of $2,675 per month. Two - bedroom apartments were available at a cost of $1,175 to $1,800 per month, while one -bedroom apartments were available at a cost of $932 to $979 per month.

Table 2-16: Market Rents and HUD Fair Market Rents (2021) Location
Beds/Baths
Monthly Rent
HUD Fair Market
Rents (100%)
5736 Cecilia St
3/2.5
$2,400
$2,735
5734-5736 Fostoria St.
3/2.5
$2,950
8136 Wilcox Ave
2/1.0
$1,750
$2,058
6540Jaboneria Rd
2/1.0
$1,800
6728 Clara St.
2/1.0
$1,175
6728 Clara St.
1/1.0
$979
$1,605
5720 Clara Street
1/1.0
$932
Source: LACDA, Rental Housing Search Tool, 2021
Comparing the average rental prices to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set for the County of Los Angeles (Table -1) indicates that the average costs of rental units in Bell Gardens sit below the FMR estimates for the County. According to the 2018 ACS, the median contract rent for the City of Bell Gardens was $1,190 per month.

Housing Affordability
Housing affordability can be inferred by comparing the cost of renting or owning a home in the City with the maximum affordable housing costs for households at different income levels. Taken together, this information can generally show who can afford what size and type of housing and indicate the type of households most likely to experience overcrowding and overpayment.

The federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) conducts annual household income surveys nationwide to
determine a household's eligibility for federal housing City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
28 Exhibit 1 48

assistance. Based on this survey, the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) developed income limits, based on the Area Median Income (AMI), which can be used to determine the maximum price that could be affordable to households in the upper range of their respective income category. Households in the lower end of each category can afford less by comparison than those at the upper end. The estimated maximum affordable home and rental prices for residents in Los Angeles County are shown in Table -17. This maximum represents the amount that a household at the upper end of each income category can pay for housing each month without incurring a cost burden. This amount can be compared to current housing asking prices (Table -1) and market rental rates (Table -1) to approximate what types of housing opportunities a household in Bell Gardens can afford.

Extremely Low Income Households
Extremely low income households earn 30% or less of the County AMI. Extremely low income households cannot afford market -rate rental or ownership housing in Bell Gardens without assuming a substantial cost burden.

Very Low Income Households
Very low income households earn between 31% and 50% of the County AMI. Given the cost of housing in Bell Gardens, very low income households could not afford to rent or purchase a home in the City.

Low Income Households
Low income households earn between 51% and 80% of the County AMI. Most low income households in Bell Gardens would be able to find adequately sized affordable apartment units in the City (Table -1).

Moderate Income Households
Moderate income households earn between 81% and 120% of the County AMI. Moderate income households in Bell Gardens would find it challenging to be able to purchase a home in the City.

Appropriately sized market -rate rental housing is generally affordable to households in this income group.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
29 Exhibit 1 49

Table 2-17: Affordable Housing Costs (2020)
Annual Income
Affordable Monthly
Housing Cost
Utilities, Taxes and Insurance
Affordable Price
Rent
Purchase
Rent
Own
Taxes/ Insurance
Rent
FPurchase
Extremely
Low Income
(30% of MFI)
1-Person
$23,700
$442
$593
$151
$151
$207
$442
$61,790
2-Person
$27,050
$510
$676
$166
$166
$237
$510
$72,096
3-Person
$30,450
$571
$761
$190
$190
$266
$571
$80,244
4-Person
$33,800
$622
$845
$223
$223
$296
$622
$86,069
5-Person
$36,550
$650
$914
$264
$264
$320
$650
$86,953
Very Low Income (50% of MFI)
1-Person
$39,450
$836
$986
$151
$151
$345
$836
$129,241
2-Person
$45,050
$960
$1,126
$166
$166
$394
$960
$149,182
3-Person
$50,700
$1,077
$1,268
$190
$190
$444
$1,077
$166,966
4-Person
$56,300
$1,185
$1,408
$223
$223
$493
$1,185
$182,427
5-Person
$60,850
$1,257
$1,521
$264
$264
$532
$1,257
$191,020
Low Income (80% of MFI)
1-Person
$63,100
$1,427
$1,578
$151
$151
$552
$1,427
$230,524
2-Person
$72,100
$1,637
$1,803
$166
$166
$631
$1,637
$265,026
3-Person
$81,100
$1,837
$2,028
$190
$190
$710
$1,837
$297,157
4-Person
$90,100
$2,030
$2,253
$223
$223
$788
$2,030
$327,179
5-Person
$97,350
$2,170
$2,434
$264
$264
$852
$2,170
$347,334
Moderate
Income (120% of MFI)
1-Person
$64,900
$1,472
$1,623
$151
$151
$568
$1,472
$238,233
2-Person
$74,200
$1,689
$1,855
$166
$166
$649
$1,689
$274,020
3-Person
$83,500
$1,897
$2,088
$190
$190
$731
$1,897
$307,435
4-Person
$92,750
$2,096
$2,319
$223
$223
$812
$2,096
$338,527
5-Person
$100,150
$2,240
$2,504
$264
$264
$876
$2,240
$359,325
Source: California Department of Housing and Community Development, 2020 Income limits; and Veronica Tam and Associates Assumptions: 2020 HCD income limits; 30%gross household income as affordable housing cost; 20% of monthly affordable cost for taxes and insurance; 10% down payment; and 5.5% interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage loan. Utilities based on Los Angeles County Utility Allowance (2020).

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
30 Exhibit 1 50

2.4.6 Publicly Assisted Housing
Inventory of Publicly Assisted Rental Housing
The City of Bell Gardens has a number of publicly assisted rental housing affordable to lower and moderate income households.

Table 18 provides a summary listing of affordable projects in the City. Overall, five projects in the City include affordable units.

Specifically, 221 units are set aside as housing for lower and moderate income households.

Table 2-18: Inventory of Publicly Assisted Affordable Rental Housing Potential
Project Name
Tenant
Ownership
Funding Source
Applicable
Conversion
Type
Units
Date
74 units
Westminster Court
Senior
Non -Profit
Section 8 subsidy contract
Obr —18
July 2027
1br —56
Tax Credit Bond HOME City
71 units
Park View Terrace
Senior
Non-profit
of Industry, Bell Gardens CDC
1br — 65
January 2063
2br-6
65 units
Terra Bella
Senior
Non-profit
Tax Credit, Bell Gardens CDC
1br -64
March 2076
2br-1
Specht Avenue
Family
City -Owned
Bell Gardens CDC, CDBG
8 units
February 2046
Emil Avenue
Family
City -Owned
Bell Gardens CDC
3 units
January 2046
Preservation of At -Risk Housing
State law requires that the City identify, analyze, and propose programs to preserve existing affordable multi -family rental units that are eligible to convert to market -rate uses due to termination of subsidy contract, mortgage prepayment, or expiring use restrictions during the next ten years. Therefore, this at -risk housing analysis covers the period from October 15, 2021 through October 15, 2031.

At -Risk Housin
Within the 2021-2031 "at -risk" housing analysis period, only one of the City's affordable housing projects, Westminster Court, is considered at risk of being converted to market rate because the property maintains only a short-term Section 8 rental assistance contract; however, contract renewal is a fairly automatic procedure. Furthermore, the project is nonprofit owned, making City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
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conversion to market -rate housing unlikely. Nonetheless, consistent with Housing Element law, this project is considered at risk of conversion to market -rate housing due to the potential for expiration of subsidy contracts.

Preservation Options
To maintain the existing affordable housing stock, the City works to preserve the existing assisted units or facilitate the development of new units. Depending on the circumstances of the at -risk projects, different options may be used to preserve or replace the units.

Preservation options typically include:
1) Transfer of units to non-profit ownership;
2) Rental assistance; and
3) Purchase of affordability covenants.

In terms of replacement, the most direct option is the development of new assisted multi -family housing units. The following discussion highlights ways that the City's at -risk project could be preserved as affordable housing. All of the presented alternatives are costly and beyond the ability of the City of Bell Gardens to manage without large amounts of subsidy from federal and/or State resources.

These options are described below.

Transfer of Ownership: Typically, transferring ownership of an affordable housing project from for -profit to nonprofit ownership can ensure long-term affordability of the project. Because the at - risk project, Westminster Court, is already owned by a nonprofit, a transfer of ownership is not necessary or appropriate.

Rental Assistance: Tenant -based rent subsidies could be used to preserve the affordability of housing. Similar to Housing Choice Vouchers, the City could provide rent subsidies to tenants of at -risk units. The level of the subsidy required to preserve the at -risk units is estimated to equal the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for a unit minus the housing cost affordable by a lower income household. Table 2-19 estimates the rent subsidies required to preserve the affordability of the 74 at -risk units. Based on the estimates and assumptions shown in Table -1, approximately $548,568 in rent subsidies would be required annually.

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Table 2-19: Rental Subsidies Required
Total
Fair
Household
Household
Affordable Cost
Monthly per
Total Yearly
Unit Size
Units
Market
Size
Annual
(Minus
Unit Subsidy
Subsidy
Rent
Income
Utilities)
Very Low Income (50%AMI)
Studio
18 1 $1,369
1 $39,450
$836
$533
$115,128
1-BR
56 $1,605
2 $45,050
$960
$645
$433,440
Total
74 ---
---
---
---
---
$548,568
Notes:

1. Fair Market Rents (FMR) FY 2021 are determined by HUD.

2. Los Angeles County Area Median Household Income (AMI) limits set by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD).

3. Affordable cost = 30% of household income minus utility allowance.

Purchase of Affordability Covenants: Another option to preserve the affordability of the at -risk project is to provide an incentive package to the owner to maintain the project as affordable housing. Incentives could include bonds, writing down the interest rate on the remaining loan balance, providing a lump -sum payment, and/or supplementing the rents to market levels. The feasibility and cost of this option depends on whether the complex is too highly leveraged and interest on the owner's part to utilize the incentives found in this option. By providing lump sum financial incentives or ongoing subsidies in rents or reduced mortgage interest rates to the owner, the City could ensure that some or all of the units remain affordable.

Construction of Replacement Units: The construction of new low income housing units is a means of replacing the at -risk units should they be converted to market -rate units. The cost of developing housing depends upon a variety of factors, including density, size of the units (i.e., square footage and number of bedrooms), location, land costs, availability of infrastructure, and type of construction.

Assuming an average development cost of approximately $162,292 per unit for multi -family rental housing, replacement of the 74 at - risk units would require approximately $12,009,600 excluding land costs. When land costs and developer profits are included, the construction costs of new units can easily double.

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Table 2-20: Estimated New Construction Costs
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)
Unit Size
Total
Estimated
Estimated
Estimated Gross
Units
Average Unit Size
Gross Building Size
Building Costs
(sq. ft.)
Studio
18 450
9,720
$2,332,800
1-BR
156
600
40,320
$9,676,800
Total
74 50,040
$12,009,600
Average Per Unit Cost:
$162,292
Notes:

1. (C) _ (A) x (B) x 1.20 (i.e., 20% inflation to account for hallways and other common areas)

2. (D) _ (C) x $192 (per square foot construction costs) x 1.25 (i.e., 25% inflation to account for parking and landscaping costs)

3. $192 per square foot estimate was based on UC Riverside, School of Business February 2020 Economy White Paper Series, Demystifying the High Cost of Multifamily Housing Construction in Southern California.

Cost Comparisons
The above analysis attempts to estimate the cost of preserving the at -risk units under various options. However, because different projects have different circumstances and therefore different options available, the direct comparison would not be appropriate.

In general, providing additional incentives/subsidies to extend the affordability covenant would require the least funding over the long run, whereas the construction of new units would be the most costly option. Over the short term, providing rent subsidies would be least costly but this option does not guarantee the long-term affordability of the units.

The cost of constructing 74 housing units to replace the currently at -risk units is the highest cost option, with an estimated total cost of approximately $12 million, excluding land costs, fees, and other overhead costs and profits.

Resources for Preservation
Preservation of at -risk housing requires not onlyfinancial resources but also administrative capacity of nonprofit organizations. These resources are discussed in detail later in this Housing Element Update in the "Housing Resources" section.

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Certain segments of the population may have more difficulty in finding decent, affordable housing due to their special needs.

Special circumstances may be related to one's employment and income, family characteristics, disability and household characteristics, among other factors. Consequently, certain residents in Bell Gardens may experience higher incidences of housing overpayment (cost burden), overcrowding, or other housing problems. The special needs groups analyzed include seniors, persons with disabilities, homeless people, single parents, large households, military personnel, and farm workers (Table -1). Some of these groups overlap, for example many seniors have a disability of some type. The majority of these special needs groups could be assisted by an increase in affordable housing, especially housing located near public transportation and services.

Table 2-21: Special Needs Groups in Bell Gardens
% of Total
# of People or
Number of
Number
Special Needs Group
o
% Owner
o
% Renter
Households or
Households
Owners
of Renters
Population
Households with Seniors
1,962
--
--
--
--

20.3%
Senior Headed
Households
500
268
54%
232
46%

5.2%
Seniors Living Alone
343
97 28%
246
72%

3.5%
Persons with Disabilities
3,033
--
--
--
--

7.2%
Large Households
5,684
1,256
22%
4,428
78%
59%
Single -Parent
Households
3,655
--
--
--
--
o
38/
Female Headed
Households with
2,549
--
--
--
--
26%
Children
People Living in Poverty
8,652
--
--
--
--
27%
Farmworkers
103
j

0.3%
Homeless
83 1

0.2%
Sources: 2018 ACS, five-year estimates

2.5.1 Senior Households
Senior -headed households often have special needs due to their relatively low incomes, disabilities or limitations, and dependency needs. Of the 9,663 households in the City, approximately 21% (2,087 households) include elderly persons over 65 years of age.

The number of households containing elderly persons as a head of City of Bell Gardens
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household was 1,962, representing approximately 20% of all households.

Generally, people aged 65 years and older have four main concerns:
• Housing: Many seniors live alone and may have difficulty maintaining their homes;
• Income: People aged 65 and over are usually retired and living on a limited income;
• Healthcare: Seniors are more likely to have high healthcare costs;
• Transportation: Many of the elderly rely on public
transportation, especially those with disabilities.

According to the 2018 ACS, 35% of Bell Gardens' senior population was listed as having one or more disabilities. Furthermore, about 16% of the City's senior population had incomes below the poverty level between 2015 and 2018. In 2018, about 55% of the City's senior -headed households were renters and 45% owned their homes (Table -).

Table 2-22: Senior Households by Tenure
Age Group
Owners
Renters
Total
Households
Households
%
Households
65-74 Years Old
323
38%
526
62%
849
75-84 Years Old
189
58%
136
42%
325
85+ Years Old
49 50%
48 49%
97 Total
561
45%
710
1 55%
1,271
Source: ACS 2018, five-year estimates
Rncni irrac
Bell Gardens is home to Westminster Court, a 74-unit affordable apartment complex with Section 8 contracts for independent senior living. In addition, Park View Terrace Senior Housing Complex was constructed in 2007 to provide 72 units of affordable housing for ambulatory seniors.

The Terra Bella development is a 65-unit affordable senior housing complex. All 19 ground -floor units have been designed as wheelchair accessible. Amenities include a 2,000-square-foot City of Bell Gardens
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resident community center, a community garden, and laundry facilities.

2.5.2 Persons with Disabilities
Physical, mental, and/or developmental disabilities may prevent a person from working, restrict one's mobility, or make it difficult to care for oneself. Thus, disabled persons often have special housing needs related to limited earning capacity, a lack of accessible and affordable housing, and higher healthcare costs associated with a disability. Additionally, some residents suffer from disabilities that require living in a supportive or institutional setting.

A significant proportion of Bell Gardens' population includes residents with physical, sensory, mental, or other disabilities who may require special living arrangements and services designated to meet their needs. For example, persons with physical and/or sensory disabilities often require barrier -free housing, which allows for freedom of movement to and within the unit itself. Disabilities can also include hearing, vision, cognitive, ambulatory, self -care, independent living, and other conditions.

The 2018 ACS reported that 3,033 persons in the City suffered from one or more disabilities. Table -3 summarizes the types of disabilities that Bell Gardens residents suffer from. Housing modifications and services are often critical in assisting individuals to maintain independence and dignity. Accessibility modifications, proximity to services and transit, and group housing represent some of the accommodations that are important in serving this group. In addition, some residents suffer from disabilities that require living in supportive or institutional settings.

The special housing needs of disabled persons include accessible housing units in close proximity to public services and commercial centers with special design features that alleviate the disabilities. State and federal laws require that a portion of all rental apartments containing five or more units are made accessible to disabled persons. The City applies standard conditions of approval to residential development projects that reflect that mandate.

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Table 2-23: Types of Disabilities by Age Group
Age of Person and Type of Disability
Number
Total Disabilities Tallied
3,033
Total Disabilities Tallied for People 5 to 17 Years:
438
Hearing Difficulty
68 Vision Difficulty
25 Total Disabilities Tallied for People 18 to 64 Years:
1,539
Hearing Difficulty
269
Vision Difficulty
327
Cognitive Difficulty
502
Ambulatory Difficulty
820
Self -Care Difficulty
398
Independent Living Difficulty
659
Total Disabilities Tallied for People 65 Years and Over:
1,056
Hearing Difficulty
423
Vision Difficulty
160
Cognitive Difficulty
411
Ambulatory Difficulty
696
Self -Care Difficulty
469
Independent Living Difficulty
657
Source: ACS 2018, five-year estimates
Developmental Disability
State law requires that the Housing Element Update discuss the housing needs of persons with developmental disabilities. As defined by State law, "developmental disability' means a severe, chronic disability of an individual that:
• Is attributable to a mental or physical impairment or combination of mental and physical impairments;
• Is manifested before the individual attains age 18;
• Is likely to continue indefinitely;
• Results in substantial functional limitations in three or more of the following areas of major life activity:
a) Self -care;
b) Receptive and expressive language;
c) Learning;
d) Mobility;
e) Self -direction;
f) Capacity for independent living; or
g) Economic Self- sufficiency; and
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• Reflects the individual's need for a combination and
sequence of special, interdisciplinary, or generic services; individualized supports; or other forms of assistance that are of lifelong or extended duration and are individually planned and coordinated.

According to the State's Department of Developmental Services, Bell Gardens residents with developmental disabilities were being assisted at the South Central Los Angeles Regional Center. The South Central Los Angeles Regional Center serves the health districts of Compton, San Antonio, South, Southeast and Southwest within the County of Los Angeles. Annually they serve
approximately 16,000 individuals. Service records indicate that as of December 2020, 1,177 persons with developmental disabilities from ZIP Code 90201 (which encompasses Bell, Cudahy, and Bell Gardens) were served at the Regional Center. About 60% of these residents were children under the age of 18 and 93% were living at home with parents or guardians.

Many developmentally disabled persons can live and work independently within a conventional housing environment. More severely disabled individuals require a group living environment where supervision is provided. The most severely affected individuals may require an institutional environment where medical attention and physical therapy are provided. Because developmental disabilities exist before adulthood, the first issue in supportive housing for the developmentally disabled is the transition from the person's living situation as a child to an appropriate level of independence as an adult.

The most obvious housing need for persons with disabilities is housing that is adapted to their needs. Most single-family homes are inaccessible to people with mobility and sensory limitations.

Some housing units are not easily adaptable to accommodate widened doorways and hallways, access ramps, larger bathrooms, lowered countertops, and other features necessary for
accessibility. Location of housing is also an important factor for many persons with disabilities, as they often rely upon public transportation to travel to necessary services and shops. "Barrier free design" housing, accessibility modifications, proximity to services and transit, and group living opportunities are important in serving this group. Incorporating barrier -free design in new City of Bell Gardens
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multi -family housing developments is especially important to provide the widest range of choices for the disabled.

Racni irrac
Bell Gardens has undertaken a variety of programs in response to the housing needs of people with disabilities, including the assurance that developers of senior housing give special attention to the mobility limitations of seniors.

The City's Building and Safety Division provides ongoing assistance to complete rehabilitation work for single-family properties and public facilities to install necessary accommodations, including ramps and railings to meet handicapped accessibility. In addition, the City's Public Works Department has received grant funding in the past to construct improvements to curbs and gutters to include wheelchair ramps for increased accessibility for disabled residents along major corridors throughout the community.

2.5.3 Large Households
By definition according to The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), the term "large household" refers to a household containing five or more persons. They often require larger dwelling units that may not be available at costs the larger household can afford. The increase in the number of household members does not proportionally increase the earning power of the household. Large households would need large but inexpensive housing units in the City. Finding rental housing with higher than average bedroom counts is a typical problem for large households, particularly renters with lower income levels.

Bell Gardens is a family -oriented community which translates to a higher than average household size. According to the 2018 ACS, the average household size in the City was 4.33 persons. By contrast, the average household size in Los Angeles County was 2.96 persons. Table -4 shows household size by tenure.

Approximately 3,443 households in Bell Gardens were considered large households with five or more persons, making up 36% of total households in the City.

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Table 2-24: Household Size by Tenure
Household Size
Owners
Renters
Total
Households
% of
Owners
Households
% of
Renters
Households
% of
Total
1-4 Persons
1,321
62%
4,899
65%
6,220
64%
5+ Persons
1 825
38%
1 2,618
35%
3,443
36%
Total
1 2,146
100%
1 7,517
100%
9,663
100%
Source: ACS 2018, five-year estimates
Racnurrac
Lower and moderate income large households can benefit from various affordable housing programs offered by the City and County. In addition, the City encourages the development of housing that includes larger size units (with three or more bedrooms).

2.5.4 Single -Parent Households
It is important to recognize the needs that bear special concern to single -parent families, particularly female -headed families with children, as they often require special consideration and assistance because of their greater need for affordable housing and accessible day care, healthcare, and other supportive services. Housing opportunities can be improved through policies that call for the provision of affordable childcare, and for the location of family housing sites close to transportation, recreational facilities, healthcare, and supportive services.

According to the 2018 ACS, an estimated 45% of the City's households were headed by single parents (Table -) — the large majority of which were headed by females (76 percent).

Furthermore, approximately 35 percent of the total households in Bell Gardens (3,398 households) were female -headed households with children. The average single -parent household spends 12-25 percent of annual income for childcare, leaving less income available to pay for housing. According to the 2018 ACS, 43.8 percent of female -headed single -parent households in Bell Gardens had incomes below the poverty level.

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Table 2-25: Single -Parent Households
Single-
Percent
Female -Headed
% Single -
Total
Parent
Total
Households with
Parent
Households
Households
Households
Children
Households
Bell Gardens
9,663
4,430

45.8%
3,398

76.7%
Los Angeles County
3,306,109
721,972

22.0%
496,573

68.8%
Source: ACS 2018, five-year estimates.

Resources
Bell Gardens offers supportive services through the Recreation and Community Services Department (e.g., youth services and recreational programs) for lower and moderate income
households in Bell Gardens. The Bell Shelter, located in the City of Bell adjacent to Bell Gardens, provides transitional housing for women with dependent children. The focus of the shelter's services is to provide women who are victims of domestic violence with housing while they are making a transition to independent living.

2.5.5 Homeless
According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development (HUD), a person is considered homeless if he/she is not imprisoned and:
• Lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence; • The primary nighttime residence is a publicly or privately operated shelter designed for temporary living
arrangements;
• The primary residence is an institution that provides a temporary residence for individuals that should otherwise be institutionalized; or
• The primary residence is a public or private place not designed for or ordinarily used as a regular sleeping
accommodation.

Numerous factors contribute to homelessness —difficulties in obtaining employment, mental illness, family problems, and substance abuse, to name a few. Homeless individuals also have needs for medical care, job training, childcare assistance, mental healthcare, substance abuse treatment, English language education, and other services.

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The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority's (LAHSA's) 2020 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count identifies 63,706 persons that are homeless in the County on a given day. An estimated 83 unsheltered homeless persons were counted in Bell Gardens:
• 51% were on the street
• 15% were in makeshift shelters
• 15% were in RV/campers
• 19% were in vans and cars
Resources
The primary agency that deals with the issue of homelessness in the City is the Bell Gardens Police Department. Occasionally, transients are encountered who often can reference a permanent address. The Police Department acts as a referral resource to shelters in the area and sometimes transports those persons without a permanent address to sub -regional facilities.

Although no homeless shelters are located within the City of Bell Gardens, various facilities located in Los Angeles County are available to provide shelter for homeless individuals and families.

These shelter facilities include: Long Beach Rescue Mission, Long Beach Salvation Army, Bell Shelter Salvation Army, Catholic Charities/Homeless Programs, Mental Health Association/Los Angeles County, and East Rancho Dominguez Community Services.

Bell Gardens is home to Human Services Association, a community - based agency providing a wide range of social services to residents of southeast Los Angeles County. The agency provides family programs and senior services ranging from child abuse and domestic violence prevention and intervention, to food
distribution and care assistance.

The City also actively participates in the Gateway Cities Council of Governments (COG) Initiative to Reduce Homelessness to
collaborate in developing a plan to advance individuals from homelessness to a stabilized and productive life.

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2.5.6 Farmworkers
Farmworkers are traditionally defined as persons whose primary incomes are earned through permanent or seasonal agricultural labor. Permanent farm laborers work in the fields, processing plants, or support activities on a generally year-round basis. When workload increases during harvest periods, the labor force is supplemented by seasonal labor, often supplied by a labor contractor. For some crops, farms may employ migrant workers, defined as those whose travel distance to work prevents them from returning to their primary residence every evening.

According to the 2018 ACS, 103 residents were employed in the agricultural, forestry, and fishing industries, representing less than 1% of the residents in 2018 and zero were farmworkers. According to the USDA Census on agricultural population, there were 413 farms in Los Angeles County and 3,266 farmworkers. Only 22 farms in Los Angeles County hired migrant farmworkers. An estimated 395 migrant workers worked in the County. Given that Bell Gardens has no farming activities, it is not likely there are any irant farmworkers in the Citv.

Resources
Because farmworkers make up such a minute proportion of the City's population, no specific programs are necessary.

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This section provides discussion about the various factors that can directly and indirectly restrict housing opportunities in the City.

The provision of adequate and affordable housing for all residents is an important goal of the City. There are, however, various interrelated factors, both public and private that restrict housing opportunities and influence the production and rehabilitation of housing. Many of these factors, particularly in the private and market sectors, are beyond the ability of local government to control. However, certain other factors can be influenced by strong local housing program efforts.

Housing Element Law, Government Code Section 65583(a),
requires an analysis of potential and actual governmental constraints. These constraints include land use controls, building codes and their enforcement, site improvements, and/or any fees related to the maintenance, development, or improvement of housing for all income levels. Moreover, the analysis must also include an analysis of nongovernmental constraints that negatively impact or hinder the development of housing. The extent to which these factors affect the supply and affordability of housing in the City is discussed in the proceeding paragraphs.

3.2.1 State and Prevailing Wage Requirements
Labor Code Section 1720, which applies prevailing wage rates to public works of over $1,000, defines "public works" to mean construction, alteration, installation, demolition, or repair work done under contract and paid for in whole or in part out of public funds. For example, public transfer of an asset for less than fair market value, such as a land write -down, would be construed to be paid for in part out of public funds and trigger prevailing wage requirements. While the cost differential in prevailing and standard wages varies based on the skill level of the occupation, prevailing wages tend to add to the overall cost of development. In the case of affordable housing projects, prevailing wage requirements could City of Bell Gardens
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effectively reduce the number of affordable units that can be achieved with public subsidies. However, state law does allow a number of exceptions for single-family homes and for projects intended to support affordable housing, such as the construction or expansion of emergency shelters or construction of some types of affordable housing units.

3.2.2 Environmental Protection
State and federal regulations require environmental review of proposed discretionary projects (e.g., subdivision maps, development review permits, etc.). Costs resulting from the environmental review process are also added to the cost of housing and are passed on to the consumer. These costs include the preparation of environmental analyses, and from delays caused by the mandated public review periods. However, the presence of these regulations helps preserve the environment and ensure environmental safety to Bell Gardens residents. Furthermore, recent State laws have established exemptions from CEQA for infill and affordable housing projects.

Environmental and infrastructural constraints can limit or affect the type and density of housing development in a particular city.

This can include natural resources or lack of sufficient infrastructure capacity. Adequate infrastructure and public services are essential in providing future residential development.

3.3.1 Infrastructure
Bell Gardens is a dense and urban community with very limited vacant land. The majority of the City's infrastructure systems is in place and was installed in the 1940s and 1960s when major transitional urbanization development of the City occurred. Future development will generally occur within infill areas. The undersized mains in many areas of the City have been an issue in the past, causing a major constraint for the future development of housing.

At one point, fire flows were too low to meet current and future development. Since it is too expensive for an individual developer of one or two lots serviced by the system to upgrade the entire City of Bell Gardens
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system, other measures have been undertaken by the City to address much needed infrastructure upgrades. A number of infrastructure Master Plans relating to water and sewer provide a strategy to address much needed upgrades of these systems. In addition, the Fire Department requires a Water Flow test be conducted prior to the issuance of permits for any new
development.

Water
One privately owned utility company, Golden State Water Company (GSWC), provides water service to the City. Presently, the City has one well and one connection with an imported water supply system of the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD). Service area is defined in the City's Water Master Plan as generally including the multi -residential area from Darwell Avenue westerly to the West City Boundary at the 710 (Long Beach) Freeway and north of the first alley north of Gage Avenue to the City northerly boundary at Randolph Street and the residential/industrial areas from Toler Avenue easterly to the City easterly boundary at the Rio Hondo River Channel and north of Florence Place to the City northerly boundary at Gage Avenue.

The groundwater supply pumped by Water Well No. 1 is
chlorinated by use of liquid chlorine at the Well Plant located in Bell Gardens Park. The MWD water supply is pre-treated by that agency at several of its Treatment Plants located outside of the City. The City evaluates water system needs on an annual basis through the City's Capital Improvements Program (CIP) annual budget process.

The most critical elements include wastewater and water distribution lines. In general, the water infrastructure will be adequate to supply water for domestic use. As to the issue of capacity for fire protection, an increase in capacity to meet peak demand and installation of additional fire hydrants will be required in all areas of proposed new developments. The cost of providing water infrastructure improvements to individual projects is borne by every developer and is not considered a barrier for housing, since the City is built out and fees are charged on a fair share basis.

The water supply test is streamlined for affordable housing projects.

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Sewer
The City owns and operates the local sewer collection system managing smaller repairs, while Los Angeles County Department of Public Works (LACDPW), handles the bigger repairs and
emergencies through a maintenance contract. Connection to sewers is not anticipated to be a barrier to housing since sewer capacity currently exists. Therefore, the cost of sewer connection is established on a site -by -site basis for laterals only. A developer would not be charged with expanding capacity citywide since such capacity already exists. Finally, the City does not currently have a 71,
citywide developer fee for sewer expansion //i

3.3.2 Flood Hazards
The entire City has been identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as being located in Zone X, or in an area with a minimal potential for flooding. Therefore, flood hazard is not a constraint to development in the City.

3.3.3 Noise and Air Quality
Noise and emissions generated by traffic on freeways and industrial uses result in irritation and possible health hazards to nearby residents. State noise guidelines recommend that residences be located in areas where the outdoor ambient noise levels are not greater than 65 decibels. Many homes in the City are exposed to levels greater than this. The sound walls along the freeway near the residential neighborhoods greatly reduce the traffic noise, but they do not eliminate the noise entirely. Other residential areas exposed to noise are located along heavily traveled roadways such as Eastern Avenue, Florence Avenue, Garfield Avenue, and Gage Avenue. Much of the traffic on these and other roads include heavy trucks traveling to the industrial areas within Bell Gardens and in the neighboring cities.

3.3.4 Soils Contamination
During the demolition phase of a proposed development, the discovery of asbestos -containing materials (ACMs) and lead particulates may occur due to the age of the structures in the City.

ACMs may include floor tiles, plumbing insulation, and wall City of Bell Gardens
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insulation. Lead particulates may be associated with flakes of paint (i.e., older paints typically contained limited amounts of lead). The nature and extent of these materials will be determined during the inspection of the structures that will be demolished. The sites identified as available sites for development to meet the City's share of housing needs are not contaminated

3.3.5 Earthquakes
Potential significant environmental constraints are also imposed by active earthquake fault zones within the City, including the Puente Hills Fault and Elysian Park Fault. The City requires engineering reports to establish appropriate design standards and mitigation measures taken to alleviate these hazards. However, the necessity of these reports is offset by the need for public safety and welfare, and thus the City does not consider the reports a constraint to housing development.

3.3.6 Farmland
None of the parcels identified in the residential sites inventory are covered by a Williamson Act.

3.4.1 Land Use Policy
Bell Gardens regulates the type, location, density, and scale of development through the General Plan and Zoning Code. For the most part, the regulations set forth in the Zoning Code are designed to preserve the character and integrity of existing neighborhoods while promoting smart growth that protects the health and safety of residents. The Land Use Element was last revised in 1995 and indicates the location and extent of permitted land uses and development within the City. One of the more significant constraints to the development of substantial numbers of new housing units is related to the availability of land to accommodate such development. The City has been fully developed since its incorporation in 1961. Very little undeveloped land remains and is limited to scattered vacant lots.

The City has a total land area of 1,536 acres, with 1,210 acres available for development (the difference of 326 acres is devoted City of Bell Gardens
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to streets, public rights -of -way, and easements). Of the total land area available for development, 701 acres, or 58%, is designated as residential. Table 3-1 itemizes the land area devoted to the various land use designations that comprise the City of Bell Gardens General Plan. The distribution of the City's land uses by General Plan designation and zoning district is shown on Figure 3-1 and Figure 3-2, respectively.

Table 3-1: General Plan Land Use Designations
Land Use Designation
(Zone District)
Land Use Description
Density Standard
Area
(acres)
% of
Land
Area
Residential
Low -Density Residential (R-1)
Single-family residential

8.7 du/acre

19.7 1.6%
Medium -Density Residential (R-2)
Single- and multi -family
9-15 du/acre

35.2 2.9%
High -Density Residential (R-3)
Single- and multi -family
20-30 du/acre
558.2

46.1%
Mixed -Use (M-U)
Commercial and residential
20-30 du/acre

88.1 7.3%
Subtotal Residential
701.2

58.0%
Other
General Commercial
Range of commercial uses
FAR 4.0

60.8 5.0%
Regional Commercial
High intensity commercial
FAR 5.0

61.3 5.1%
Industrial
Light industrial
FAR 2.0
157.8

13.0%
Public/Institutional
Public facilities
N/A

89.1 7.4%
Open Space/Parks
Conservation purpose
N/A
139.6

11.5%
Total
1,209.8
100.0 %
Source: City of Bell Gardens Land Use Element, 1995
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
50 Exhibit 1 70

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City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
51 Exhibit 1 71

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3.4.2 Provisions for a Variety of Housing Types
A city may facilitate the development of a variety of housing types through the General Plan and Zoning. Conversely, a city may intentionally or unintentionally limit the development of certain housing types. This Section of the City of Bell Gardens Housing Element Update evaluates the various types of housing that are permitted within the City. The majority of the City (58%) is designated for residential development, as indicated in Table -.

The General Plan and Zoning Code were developed so that there would be a one-to-one correlation between the respective land use designations.

State Housing Element Law specifies that jurisdictions must identify adequate sites to be made available through appropriate zoning and development standards to encourage the development of a variety of housing of all income levels, including multi -family rentals, manufactured homes, mobile homes, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs). Table 3-2 summarizes the different housing types and the specific residential zones in which they are permitted.

Table 3-2: Housing Types by Residential District
Housing Type
Residential Zone Districts
R-1
R-2
R-3
MU
Dwelling, One -Family
Permitted
Permitted
Permitted
Permitted
Accessory Dwelling Unit
Permitted
Permitted
Permitted
Not Permitted
Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit
Permitted
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
Dwellings, Two -Family
Not Permitted
Permitted
Permitted
Permitted
Dwellings, Multi -Family
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
Permitted
Permitted
Mixed -Use
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
Permitted
Manufactured Housing
Permitted
Permitted
Permitted
Permitted
Residential Care Facilities
6 Persons
7-15 persons
Permitted
Not Permitted
Permitted
Not Permitted
Permitted
Conditional
--
Conditional
Transitional Housing
Permitted
Permitted
Permitted
Permitted
Supportive House
Permitted
Permitted
Permitted
Permitted
Source: Bell Gardens Zoning Code, 2021
Exhibit 1 73

The four residential land use categories are outlined in the 1995 General Plan and include the following:
• Low Density Residential (R-1). This land use designation consists of single-family detached homes on a parcel. The maximum permitted development density for this land use designation is 8.7 units per acre. A total of 19.7 acres of land in the northwestern corner of the City are so
designated.
• Medium Density Residential (R-2). This land use
designation consists of both single- and multiple -family residences on a parcel. The maximum permitted
development density for this land use designation is
between 9 to 15 units per acre. A total of 35 acres of land in the City are designated as Medium Density Residential, generally located in the northwest corner of the City
adjacent to the R-1 zone.
• High Density Residential (R-3). Development in this land use designation is characterized by single-family attached and multiple -family residential uses. The maximum
permitted development density for this land use
designation is 20 to 30 units per acre. A total of 558.2 acres of land in the City, representing approximately 45% of the City's total land area, are so designated.
• Mixed -Use Residential (MU). The mixed -use designation allows for the development of commercial and residential uses on a single parcel with residential development
densities ranging from 20 to 30 dwelling units per acre.

Mixed -use development may involve the construction of
infill residential units above or to the rear of a ground floor commercial unit on street frontages.

However, the City has not amended the Zoning Code to
implement the Mixed Use Residential Designation. The City recently received its and first MU project application that utilizes the R-3 development standards for the residential component. This Housing Element includes a program for
the City to clarify the development standards for the MU Overlay.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
54 Exhibit 1 74

Single -Family Dwellings
A "single-family dwelling' is generally defined as a building designated for one family. Single-family dwellings are permitted in all residential zones.

Accessory Dwelling Units
An "Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)" is defined by the Zoning Code as a residential unit consistent with Government Code Section 65852.2. The City's last amendment to the Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinance occurred in 2017; however, subsequent amendments by the State to Government Code Section 65852.2 will require the City to amend the Zoning Code to ensure compliance with the recent State approvals.

Junior Accessory Dwelling Units
A "Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU)" is defined by the Zoning Code as a residential unit consistent with Government Code Section 65852.2. The City's last amendment to the Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinance occurred in 2017; however, subsequent amendments by the State to Government Code Section 65852.2 will require the City to amend the Zoning Code to ensure compliance with the new State law.

Duplex Units
The Zoning Code defines a two-family dwelling, or a "duplex," as two detached or attached units on one parcel. Duplex units are permitted in the R-2 and R-3 residential zones.

Multiple -Family Dwelling Units
Housing for three or more dwelling units is typically considered multiple -family. Multi -family housing is permitted in the R-2, R-3, and MU zones.

Mixed -Use
In 1995, the General Plan Update included the classification of a land use, referred to as "Mixed -Use", that allows a combination of commercial and residential uses. The intent of this land use designation is to have these uses work in tandem to supply the City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
55 Exhibit 1 75

community with much needed lower -income housing and
commercial facilities. This designation is concentrated on parts of Eastern Avenue and parts of Gage Avenue. Residential densities for mixed -use correspond to the High Density Residential designations and a guideline of a 4.0 floor area ratio (FAR) is used for the commercial development component.

These designated areas provide an opportunity for the City to both address legal non -conforming residential uses and promote the goals set forth in SB 375: Redesigning Communities to Reduce Greenhouse Gases. However, given the City's market conditions — the City is steadily recovering from the recession and just received its first mixed development proposal recently.

Manufactured Housing/Mobile Home Parks
The City makes an effort to accommodate a variety of housing for different types of households and incomes. Currently there are a total of 338 mobile home units in the City. This represents a total of 3.5% of the total housing stock, which for a city that is only 2.4 square miles in size is a substantial amount of its housing stock.

These mobile home units have severely deteriorated overtime and a majority of these units are overcrowded. As a result, more than half of these units have illegal additions that are in violation of the code and standards of the California Department of Housing and Community Development.

Mobile Home Parks are permitted in the R-3, C-3, C-4, and C-M zones, with the approval of a Conditional Use Permit. Section

9.20.125 of the City's Zoning Code outlines additional regulations that apply to mobile homes. Mobile Home Parks are regulated by the State and several were established prior to the City's current land use regulations and as a result, a Conditional Use Permit was not obtained.

Residential Care Facilities
The Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Services Act (Sections 5115 and 5116) of the California Welfare and Institutions Code declares that mentally and physically disabled persons are entitled to live in normal residential surroundings. The use of property for the care of six or fewer mentally disordered or otherwise handicapped persons is required by law. A State -authorized, certified or authorized family care home, foster home, or group City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
56 Exhibit 1 76

home serving six or fewer persons with disabilities or dependent and neglected children on a 24-hour-a-day basis is considered a residential use to be permitted in all residential zones. No local agency can impose stricter zoning or building and safety standards on these homes.

The Bell Gardens Zoning Code was updated in 2013 to address the provision of residential care facilities, which is defined as a family care home, foster home, or group home facility authorized, certified, or licensed by the State to serve disabled persons. A residential care facility with six or fewer persons is permitted in the R-1, R-2, and R-3 zones, pursuant to the Lanterman Act. Residential care facilities that serve seven to 15 persons are conditionally permitted in the R-3 and MU zones. Conditions for approval are similar to residential uses in the same zones. ��i�,%;i f- For aged person homes, there are two classifications that are also allowed in the City. The first includes homes for aged persons, or foster family, for four aged persons or less which are permitted by right in the R-3 zone and a site plan review is required for the use in the R-1 and R-2 zones. The second is defined as homes for aged persons (i.e., small group care) for a maximum of seven to fifteen persons which requires a conditional use permit in all of the residential zones and in the C-3, C-4, and C-M zones for this approval; however the use is permitted by right in the MU and C-S zones. Conditions for approval will be similar to similar uses in the M-WI -W•MIP-R I
Farm Employee Housing
The City of Bell Gardens is a fully urbanized community with no . , . , , �✓iiaiiiiiir��iiiii��iiiiiiiaiaiiiiiiiiiii��iairaaiirroiiiial�„��iiaiairrrrii The Census only identifies less than one
percent, or 103 residents, of the working population as employed in farming, fishing, or forestry occupations. These occupations typically include those who work in plant nurseries or in City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
57 Exhibit 1 77

landscaping. Given the City's urbanized character, the City has no need for farmworker housing.

Employee Housing
The Employee Housing Act (Health and Safety Code Section 17021.5) specifies that any employee housing providing
accommodations for six or fewer employees shall be deemed a single-family structure with a residential land use designation. The City will amend the Zoning Code to address employee housing.

Emergency Shelters
State law requires that local jurisdictions strengthen provisions for addressing the housing needs of the homeless, including the identification of a zone or zones where emergency shelters are allowed through a ministerial process. The City of Bell Gardens' Zoning Code defines "emergency shelters" as a residential facility, other than a residential care facility, operated by a provider which provides temporary accommodations to persons or families for a time period not to exceed six months per calendar year and which offers accommodations on a first -come, first -served basis.

No emergency shelters for the homeless are currently located within the City of Bell Gardens; however, in 2013 and 2015, the City amended its Zoning Code to permit emergency shelters within the Light Manufacturing (M-1) zoning district. This zone is the most appropriate zone for emergency shelters since it allows similar uses, including Mobile Home Parks as well as business and professional office uses. Properties zoned M-1 are primarily located along transportation corridors and services. The City's General Plan designates approximately 157.8 acres for Industrial Use, which encompasses the M-1 zoned properties. Properties zoned M-1 are predominantly located along Garfield Avenue, Clara Street, Shull Street, Florence Avenue, Scout Avenue, Suva Street, and Foster Bridge Boulevard.

Public transit routes along Garfield Avenue, Gage Avenue, Eastern Avenue, Florence Avenue, Florence Place, and Foster Bridge Boulevard are all located in close proximity to the M-1 properties in the City. Properties located in the M-1 zoning district are predominantly developed with active industrial uses; however, some vacant and underutilized properties exist offering adequate capacity for at least one emergency shelter, as required by State City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
58 Exhibit 1 78

law. Located in these areas are also service -oriented uses such as the Gardens Medical Center and Bell Gardens Baptist Church.

In 2015, the City amended the Zoning Code to address emergency shelters and established development standards to regulate the following aspects of these shelters:

1. Location Requirements: An emergency shelter shall not be located any closer than 300 feet to another emergency shelter or within 600 feet of a public park or school.

2. Maximum Number of Beds: The maximum number of beds for an emergency shelter shall be 20 beds plus a residential unit for a full-time on -site manager. Maximum occupancy at any one time shall be 20 residents plus a minimum of one on -site manager. The cumulative total number of beds on a City wide basis shall not exceed 200.

3. On -Site Facilities: Each emergency shelter shall provide central laundry and cooking facilities, a minimum of one toilet per 6 beds per gender, a minimum of one shower per 6 beds per gender, and private toilets and showers for family shelter facilities. Resident storage areas shall be provided. At least one of the following specific support services shall be provided:
a. Recreation room
b. Counseling center
c. Child care
d. Referral services
e. Other similar supportive services geared to the
homeless

4. Lighting: Security lighting shall be provided. A plan for security lighting shall be submitted for review and approval by the Police Department and be installed and fully operational prior to occupancy of the facility.

5. Waiting Areas: Intake and waiting areas, of a size adequate to accommodate queuing at peak hours, shall be located within the building. Queuing in the public right-of-way or a parking lot is prohibited.

6. Management and Operations:
a. On -site security personnel and an on -site manager shall be present at the facility during all hours of operation. b. Outdoor activities are prohibited.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
59 Exhibit 1 79

c. Shelter hours of operation shall be 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Resident check -in is permitted between the
hours of 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
d. Resident stays are limited to a maximum of six months per resident within a 12 month time period.
e. Loitering shall be prohibited.
f. Consumption of alcohol on the premises shall be
prohibited.
g. Areas for storage or parking of bicycles, shopping carts, wagons, and other similar items shall be provided and
not be visible from the public right-of-way.
h. A written management and operations plan shall be
submitted for review to the Director of Community
Development
The City's separation requirement for emergency shelters is not consistent with State law, which allows a maximum of 300 feet from another shelter only. No other separation requirement is permitted under State law. The City will amend the Zoning Code to comply with State law.

The State's adoption of AB 139 and AB 101 will require the City to amend the Zoning Code to address the new laws regarding emergency shelters and low -barrier navigation centers. AB 139 requires the City to base the needs for emergency shelter on the:
• Most recent homeless point -in -time count conducted
before the start of the planning period;
• Number of beds available on a year-round and seasonal basis;
• Number of shelter beds that go unused on an average
monthly basis within a one-year period; and
• percentage of those in emergency shelters that move to permanent housing solutions.

AB 139 also requires that parking for emergency shelters be based on staffing level only. The City will amend the Zoning Code to comply with State law requirements on emergency shelters.

Adopted in 2019, AB 101 defines a Low Barrier Navigation Center as "a Housing First, low -barrier, service -enriched shelter focused on moving people into permanent housing that provides
temporary living facilities while case managers connect individuals experiencing homelessness to income, public benefits, health City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
We
Exhibit 1 80

services, shelter, and housing." Low Barrier shelters may include options such as allowing pets, permitting partners to share living space, and providing storage for residents' possessions.

Low Barrier Navigation Centers (LBNC)
AB 101 requires jurisdictions to permit Low Barrier Navigation Centers that meet specified requirements by -right in mixed use zones and other nonresidential zones permitting multifamily residential development. The bill also imposes a timeline for cities to act on an application for the development of a Low Barrier Navigation Center. The provisions of AB 101 are effective until 2026. The City will amend the Zoning Code to address the provision of LBNC.

Transitional Housing
Under Housing Element law, supportive housing is defined as buildings configured as rental housing developments, but operated under program requirements that call for the termination of assistance and recirculation of the assisted unit to another eligible program recipient at some predetermined future point in time, which shall be no less than six months (California Health and Safety Code Section 50675.2). Transitional housing is a type of housing used to facilitate the movement of homeless individuals and families to permanent housing.

In August 2013, the Bell Gardens Zoning Code was amended to address the provision of transitional housing. For transitional housing facilities that operate as housing developments, meeting the Health and Safety Code definition, such uses are permitted by right where housing is permitted and in the MU zone.

Supportive Housing
Under Housing Element law, supportive housing is defined as housing with no limit on length of stay that is occupied by a target population, and that is linked to on- or off -site services that assist the supportive housing resident in retaining the housing, improving his/her health status, and maximizing his/her ability to live and, when possible, work in the community (Government Code
65582(f)).

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
61 Exhibit 1 81

Target population includes adults with low incomes having one or more disabilities, including mental illness, HIV or AIDS, substance abuse, or other chronic health conditions, or individuals eligible for services provided under the Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Services Act (Division 4.5, commencing with Section 4500, of the Welfare and Institutions Code) and may, among other populations, include families with children, elderly persons, young adults aging out of the foster care system, individuals exiting from institutional settings, veterans, or homeless people (Government Code 65582(g)).

The Bell Gardens Zoning Code was amended in August 2013 to address the provision of supportive housing. For supportive housing facilities that operate as housing developments, meeting the Government Code definition, such uses are permitted by right where housing is permitted.

However, additional amendments to the City's Zoning Code are required to address AB 2162, which streamlines affordable housing developments that include 100 percent affordable developments that include a percentage of supportive housing units, either 25 percent or 12 units whichever is greater, on sites that are zoned for residential use. Such supportive housing, if located within % mile from transit, is not subject to minimum parking requirements.

Single -Room Occupancy (SRO) Housing
The Bell Gardens Zoning Code was amended in August 2013 to conditionally permit SRO housing in the MU zone. Conditions for approval are similar to similar uses in the same zone. In amending the Zoning Code to address SRO housing as a conditionally permitted use, the City adopted special development standards for SROs, which include the following:

1. Location Requirements: An SRO cannot be located any closer than 300 feet from another SRO and no closer than 300 feet from a residential use, public park, or school.

2. On -Site Facilities: Each unit shall have a sink with a garbage disposal and counter surface, a toilet, and may include individual showers. Each floor shall have kitchen facilities to include a stove, refrigerator, a microwave oven, and
counters. If individual showers are not provided, shared shower facilities shall be provided at a ratio of 1 per 5 units.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
M
Exhibit 1 82

3. Storage Area: A minimum of 50 cubic feet of secured storage area per unit shall be provided within the building.

4. Security Lighting: Security lighting shall be provided on the building and in parking lot areas. A plan for security lighting shall be submitted for review and approval by the Police Department and be installed and fully operational prior to occupancy of the facility.

5. Management and Operations:
• On -site security personnel and an on -site manager shall be present at the facility during all hours of operation. • Loitering is prohibited.
• A management plan shall be submitted for review and
approval by the Director of Community Development
prior to occupancy and shall address provisions for staff training, neighborhood outreach, security, screening of residents, training programs for residents, and loitering control.

3.4.3 Housing for Persons with Disabilities
The City conducted an analysis of the Zoning Code, permitting procedures, development standards, and building codes to identify potential constraints for housing for persons with disabilities. The City's policies and regulations regarding housing for persons with disabilities are described below.

Zoning and Land Use
Under the State Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Services Act (aka Lanterman Act), small residential care facilities for six or fewer persons must be treated as regular residential uses and permitted by right in all residential districts. The Bell Gardens Zoning Code was amended in August 2013 to specifically address the provision of residential care facilities in compliance with the Lanterman Act.

Residential care facilities that are for seven to 15 persons are conditionally permitted in the MU and R-3 zones.

The Land Use Element and Zoning Code provide for the
development of multiple -family housing in the R-3 and MU zones.

Regular multiple -family housing for persons with special needs, City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
63 Exhibit 1 83

such as apartments for seniors and the disabled, are considered regular residential uses permitted by right in these zones.

Definition of Family
In the Bell Gardens Zoning Code, "family" is defined as an individual or two or more persons living together as a bona fide housekeeping unit in a domestic relationship based upon birth, marriage, or other domestic bond of social, economic, and psychological commitment to each other, as distinguished from a group occupying a boardinghouse, lodging house, club, dormitory, fraternity, sorority, hotel, motel, retirement complex, or rehabilitation facility.

Because this definition accommodates unrelated individuals living together as a bona fide housekeeping unit, it is inclusive and complies with State and federal laws.

Building Codes
Government Code Section 12955.1 requires that 10 percent of the total dwelling units in multi -family developments are subject to the following building standards for persons with disabilities:
• The primary entry to the dwelling unit shall be on an accessible route unless exempted by site impracticality tests.
• At least one powder room or bathroom shall be located on the primary entry level served by an accessible route.
• All rooms or spaces located on the primary entry level shall be served by an accessible route. Rooms and spaces
located on the primary entry level and subject to this
chapter may include but are not limited to kitchens, powder rooms, bathrooms, living rooms, bedrooms, or hallways.
• Common use areas shall be accessible.
• If common tenant parking is provided, accessible parking spaces are required.

No unique Building Code restrictions are in place that would constrain the development of housing for persons with disabilities.

Compliance with provisions of the City's Municipal Code, California Code of Regulations, California Building Standards Code, and federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is assessed and enforced by the Building Division as a part of the building permit submittal.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
64 Exhibit 1 84

Reasonable Accommodation
Both the federal Fair Housing Amendment Act (FHAA) and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act direct local governments to make reasonable accommodations (i.e.,
modifications or exceptions) in their zoning laws and other land use regulations when such accommodations may be necessary to afford disabled persons an equal opportunity to use and enjoyment of a dwelling.

Circumstances may arise when it would be reasonable to
accommodate requests from persons with disabilities to waive a setback requirement or another standard of the Zoning Code to ensure that homes are accessible for the mobility impaired.

Whether a particular modification is reasonable depends on the circumstances, and must be decided on a case -by -case basis. The City adopted a reasonable accommodation ordinance in August 2013 for persons with disabilities to seek relief from the strict or literal application of development standards to enable them to enjoy their dwellings like other residents in Bell Gardens.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
C:�".

Exhibit 1 85

Conclusion
The City updated the Zoning Code to provide a formal process for providing reasonable accommodation to persons with disabilities, and to address the provision of residential care facilities, transitional housing, supportive housing, and single -room - occupancy housing. No additional constraints to housing for persons with disabilities are identified.

3.4.4 Density Bonus
In 2013, the City adopted an Affordable Housing Density Bonus and Incentives ordinance consistent with State law at that time, to provide density bonuses and development incentives to all developers who propose an eligible project. The incentives are on a sliding scale, where the amount of density bonus and number of incentives vary according to the amount of affordable housing units provided. Specifically, the ordinance requires the provision of certain incentives for residential development projects that set aside a certain portion of total units to be affordable to lower and moderate income households.

However, the State Density Bonus law has been amended several times in recent years. AB 1763 made a number of changes to density bonus requirements for affordable projects. The bill requires a density bonus to be granted for projects that include 100 percent lower income units, but allows up to 20% of total units in a project that qualifies for a density bonus to be for moderate income households. Under the revised law, density bonus projects must be allowed four incentives or concessions, and for developments within % mile of a major transit stop, a height City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
Exhibit 1 86

increase of up to three additional stories or 33 feet. A density bonus of 80% is required for most projects, with no limitations on density placed on projects within % mile of a major transit stop. The bill also allows developers to request the elimination of minimum parking requirements for rental units affordable to lower -income families that are either supportive housing or special needs housing, as defined. AB 2345 signed by the Governor in September 2020 further incentivizes the production of affordable housing. The Housing Plan includes a program to amend the Zoning Code to ensure the affordable housing density bonus regulations conform to current state law. The City will amend the Zoning Code to incorporate the latest changes to the Density Bonus law.

3.5.1 Development Standards
Residential development standards delineate density allowances limiting the number and type of housing units that may be constructed on a particular parcel of land. Table 3-3 summarizes the development standards that are applicable to the residential zones.

Table 3-3: Development Standards by Residential Zone District Residential Zone Districts
Standard
R-1
R-2
R-3
M-U
Lot Standards
5,000 sf
5,000 sf
Minimum Lot
5,000 sf
(6,000 feet for
(6,000 feet for corner
15,000 sf
Area
corner lots)
lots)
50 feet
(+ 5 feet for every
50 feet
60 feet
1,000 sq. ft. of lot
60 feet
Width
(+ 10 feet for
(+ 10 feet for
area up to 100 feet
(+ 10 feet for corner lot)
corner lot)
corner lot)
max & 5 feet more for
corner lots < 70 feet
in width
Depth
80 feet
100 feet
100 feet
100 feet
Setbacks
15 feet for a
residential use and 5
Front
20 feet
20 feet
15 feet
feet for a commercial
use
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
67 Exhibit 1 87

Table 3-3: Development Standards by Residential Zone District Residential Zone Districts
Standard
R-1
R-2
R-3
M-U *
5 feet for a residential
Side
5 feet
5 feet
5 feet
use and none for a
commercial use
Street Side
10 feet
10 feet
10 feet
10 feet
Rear
10 feet
10 feet
10 feet
10 feet
Density
Under 5,000 sf:
1 du max.
5,000 - 14,999 sf:
3 units max.

Apartment: 1 du/2,500 sf
Condo: 1 du/2,000 sf
Under 5,000 sf:

Units per Lot
1 du
1 du
30 units per acre
15,000 - 43,560 sf:
(with a FAR of 4.0)
Apartment: 1 du/2,000 sf
Over 5,000 sf:

Condo: 1 du/1,625 sf
1 du/2,500 sf
43,560 sf and over:

Apartment: 1 du/1,750 sf
Condo: 1 du/1,400 sf
Lot Coverage %
45%
45%
45%
90%
1,000 sf for
primary and 600
Studio: 550 sf
sf for second
1-bedroom: 750 sf
1,000 sf for first
Minimum
unit, but no more
2-bedroom: 850 sf
and for
Dwelling Unit Size
than 50% of
3-bedroom: 1,000 sf
on
additionall units
primary unit
(+150 sf per additional
living area and
bedroom)
max of 1,000 sf
Distance between
Buildings on the Same Lot
Based on California
10 feet
10 feet
10 feet
Building Code
Primary to
6 feet
6 feet
6 feet
Based on California
Primary
Building Code
Based on California
6 feet
6 feet
6 feet
Building Code
Height
35 feet or 2
35 feet or 2
Primary Structure
stories
stories
35 feet or 2 stories
60 feet or 4 stories
(whichever is
(whichever is
(whichever is less)
less)
less)
Source: Bell Gardens Zoning Code, 2021
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
M.-
Exhibit 1 88

Parking Standards
Pursuant to the Zoning Code, two parking spaces are required per dwelling unit for projects with three dwelling units or fewer, one of which is to be in a garage or carport and the second one can be uncovered. Four or more dwelling units require the same parking ratio with the exception of also requiring one guest/visitor parking space for every two dwelling units. Table 3-4 outlines general parking requirements for the various housing types. Although the Zoning Code does not specifically have reduced parking
requirements for affordable housing projects, incentives in the form of reduced number of parking spaces have been granted in the past. With the adoption of the density bonus Zoning Code amendment, provisions are available for the granting of reduced parking requirements for eligible affordable housing projects.

Table 3-4: Residential Parking Requirements
Use
Off -Street Parking Requirements
Two parking spaces per dwelling unit, one of which shall be in a garage or carport.

One-, Two-, and Three-
For each room in a dwelling unit which is rented, one additional parking space.

Family Dwelling Units
This space may be in a garage or uncovered. Carports may be provided as additional, unrequired parking.

Two parking spaces for each dwelling unit, one in a garage and one additional Apartment Houses or Four or
uncovered parking. In addition, one space for each two dwelling unit for visitor More Dwelling Units
parking. Visitors' parking spaces shall be distributed throughout the project at convenient locations.

Two parking spaces for each dwelling unit in a garage and one additional Condominium or Townhome
uncovered parking space for each two dwelling units for visitor parking. Visitors' Development
parking spaces shall be distributed throughout the project at convenient locations.

One parking space on each trailer site and in addition thereto, one parking space Mobile Home Park
for each two trailer sites for guest parking. Said guest parking shall be conveniently located within the Mobile Home Park.

Source: City of Bell Gardens Zoning Code, 2021
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
Exhibit 1 89

3.5.2 Building Codes and Enforcement
California Building Code
In 2019, the City adopted the 2019 California Building Code along with amendments by the County of Los Angeles. This includes but is not limited to the plumbing, electrical, and mechanical codes.

These codes are necessary to protect public health, safety, and welfare and include minimum building requirements for such issues as insulation, foundation, and light fixtures that reduce energy consumption. The enforcement of the California Building Code by the City's Building Inspectors does not add significantly to the cost of housing.

Code Enforcement
The City's building codes and enforcement activities are not typically considered a constraint to housing production but they can influence the cost of housing. These codes are necessary regulations that protect the public's health, safety, and welfare.

The Code Enforcement program consists of two Code Enforcement Officers. The Code Enforcement officers enforce property maintenance and the Bell Gardens Zoning Code.

The City of Bell Gardens has implemented a systematic code enforcement program to eliminate those conditions that are detrimental to the health, safety, and public welfare, and which contribute to the deterioration of the housing stock. Emphasis has been placed on correcting building and other code violation and deficiencies in deteriorated structures and in removing units that cannot be rehabilitated. Since 2013, 343 housing rehabilitation cases have been opened by Code Enforcement to address the deteriorating housing stock in the City. It is estimated that 20 percent of the houses in the City are in need of substantial rehabilitation.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
70 Exhibit 1 90

In addition, the Code Enforcement program also includes nuisance abatement and an abandoned vehicle abatement program
designed to clean up unsightly and unsafe properties. The Code Enforcement Officers work with Community Development staff to educate residents and provide referrals to the City's housing programs in cases where the property owner/tenant might benefit from the available housing improvement programs. The Code Enforcement activities are funded by the City's General Fund and CDBG funds.

3.5.3 Planning and Impact Fees
The City has developed a number of developer fees in order to recover the cost of permit processing and to cover the costs of providing public services to the new developments. The planning fees for processing development cases in Bell Gardens are among the lowest in surrounding communities. The City does not derive full compensation for staff hours through filing fees. This policy, whereby fees do not reflect the actual costs of performing services, results in the reduction of front-end expense to developers.

The City does not retain an in-house engineering department.

Building services such as plan checks are contracted through an engineering firm. Permit issuance and inspections are handled by the Building and Safety Division of the Community Development Department, consisting of a Building Services Supervisor, a Building Inspector, and a permit issuance Clerk. Fees charged to the developer for plan check cover the costs of the City's contractual expenses.

The planning fees charged in the City of Bell Gardens include the following:

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
71 Exhibit 1 91

Table 3-5: Fee Schedule for Residential Development
Type of Fee
Fee
Site Plan Review Type 1
$25
Site Plan Review Type 2
$50
Site Plan Review Type 3
$200
Conditional Use Permit
$450
Conditional Use Permit (ABC)
$900
Variance
$450
General Plan Amendment
$750
Zone Change
$750
Tentative Tract Map
$750 plus engineer fees
Tentative Parcel Map
$500 plus engineer fees
Lot Line Adjustment/Lot Merger by Certificate of
Compliance
$500 plus engineer fees
not to exceed $5,000.00
School Fees
$2.97/Sq. ft.

Sewer Connection Fee
$2,550*
Source: City of Bell Gardens, 2021
*Single -Family Home only; lower connection fees apply for condos, multi -unit residential, and Mobile Home Parks
For a typical single-family unit, where only an administrative approval is required, the planning fee is minimal — $50 for site plan review. For projects with five of more units, planning fees total $425 for site plan review, environmental review, and Los Angeles County Clerk fee. If a subdivision map is required, then the added fees for Tentative Tract Map (up to $8,500) and Tentative Parcel Map (up to $5,000) are required, but these fees are shared among the number of units in the project.

State law authorizes school districts to collect impact fees for all new residential, commercial, and industrial construction. The current school district fee is $2.97 per square foot. At that rate, a 501 square -foot addition to a house results in a school district impact fee of $1,487.97. This fee will influence the overall construction cost, especially in a case of a low income family wishing to add on to their house to relieve overcrowded conditions.

Additions of 500 square feet or less are not subject to this fee.

However, the school fees are imposed by State legislation and are beyond the control of the City. The City does not charge any other development impact fees.

To incentivize the development of additional housing units and limit the constraints to create new units, the state mandated through recent amendments of the ADU law that the permitting of City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
72 Exhibit 1 92

an ADU that is less than 750 square feet is exempt from impact fees. However, ADUs over 750 square feet are required to pay school impact and sanitation fees.

The City currently does not charge any impact fees. Overall planning fees charged by the City are limited and do not constrain housing development.

3.5.4 On- and Off -Site Improvements
The City of Bell Gardens is built out and fully developed with its primary infrastructure including streets, water, and sewer in place.

As part of our planning review, the City can require on- and off -site improvements as part of the conditions of approval required for new construction. These improvements typically include landscape and irrigation, sidewalk and driveway approach improvements, installation of new streetlights, and utility under -grounding. Very rarely are these improvements considered to be a constraint to development. In the case that they are considered to be a burden, the City works with developers to provide comparable options that can minimize cost while retaining the integrity of neighborhood character or quality of the living environment.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
73 Exhibit 1 93

3.5.5 Processing and Permit Procedures
The processing time needed to obtain development permits and required approval is often a contributor to the high cost of housing.

This is not the case in the City of Bell Gardens. The City's policy is to discourage any backlog of cases and, as a result, City staff processes cases as soon as legally feasible. In 1978, the State of California passed a bill through the Assembly (AB 884) that helped reduce government delays by limiting processing time and City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
74 Exhibit 1 94

requiring agencies to specify the information required to complete an acceptable application. The City of Bell Gardens has fully implemented the provisions of AB 884.

Projects requiring discretionary approval are governed by two separate decision -making bodies: Planning Commission and City Council. Depending on the type of entitlement application and the proposed use, both of these groups may review a project.

The plan check review for new construction averages two to three weeks, which is considerably less than most surrounding cities.

Other pertinent reviews and permits are issued for engineering, drainage, grading, public works, electrical, and other aspects of new developments. Table 3-6 and Table 3-7 summarize the City's review process and timeframe for various types of housing development.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
75 Exhibit 1 95

Table 3-6: Processing Time by Development Type
Project Type
Reviewing
Public Hearing
Appeal Body
Estimated Total
Body
Required
(if any)
Processing Time
Single -Family
90 days includes a 15 day
Subdivision
PC
Yes
CC
appeal period otherwise
60 days
Multiple -Family
Administrative
No
PC
30 days
(SPR Type I & II)
Type III -
No, Discussion
90 days includes a 15 day
Multiple -Family
PC
Item Only
CC
appeal period otherwise
60 days
Subdivision - Yes
Mixed -Use (CUP)
PC
Yes
CC
60 days
Source: City of Bell Gardens, 2021
Table 3-7: Processing Time by Process/Permit
Process/Application
Time
Conditional Use Permit
PC Public Hearing-60 days
Design Review
Administrative Review & Approval — 30 days
General Plan Amendment
PC/CC Public Hearing-90 days
Environmental Impact Reports
9 to 12 months involving certification of EIR by the CC Plan Check/Building Permits
Approximately 3 weeks for 1st plan check corrections
Variance
PC Public Hearing-60 days
Zone Change
PC/CC Public Hearing-90 days
Source: City of Bell Gardens, 2021
The development of a new single-family dwelling unit triggers a Type II Site Plan Review that is processed administratively. The typical review period from submittal to approval is approximately four weeks, depending on how fast the project architect is able to resubmit plans.

The average review time for a residential development project is approximately three months from first submittal for Planning, Building and Safety approval, and Fire Department clearance.

Overall, the City can process residential development in an efficient manner and, therefore, the City's processing procedures do not constrain residential development.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
76 Exhibit 1 96

Environmental Review
Environmental review is required for all development projects under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Most residential projects in Bell Gardens are either Categorically Exempt or require an Initial Study and a Mitigated Negative Declaration.

Developments that have the potential of creating significant impacts that cannot be mitigated require the preparation of an Environmental Impact Report. Once deemed complete, most residential projects that require a Mitigated Negative Declaration take two to three months to complete, inclusive of mandatory public review periods. Categorically Exempt developments require a minimal amount of time. As a result, state -mandated
environmental review does not pose a significant constraint to housing development.

Transparency in Development Process
To increase transparency and certainty in the development application process as required by law, the City posts planning and development regulations and resources online:
• General Plan: https://www.bellgardens.org/government/city- departments/community-development/planning/general-plan • Planning Forms:
https://www.bellgardens.org/government/city-
departments/community-development/planning
• Zoning Code: https://www.bellgardens.org/services/city- services/municipal-code
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
77 Exhibit 1 97

*��k �•� k=
Market factors may hinder the development, improvement, and maintenance of housing. Examples of typical constraints include availability of financing, price of land, and cost of construction.

3.6.1 Availability of Financing
The availability of financing affects a person's ability to purchase or improve a home. Under the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act
(HMDA), lending institutions are required to disclose information on the disposition of loan applications and the income, gender, and race of loan applicants. The primary concern in a review of lending activity is to determine whether home financing is available to a City's residents. The data presented in this section include the disposition of loan applications submitted to financial institutions for home purchase, home improvement, and refinance loans in Bell Gardens.

Conventional financing involves market -rate loans provided by private lending institutions such as banks, mortgage companies, savings and loans, and thrift institutions. Overall, 342 households applied for mortgage loans for homes in Bell Gardens in 2017 (Table 3-8). Of the applications for conventional purchase loans,

64.7% were approved, and 17.6% were denied. An additional

11.8%were withdrawn or closed for incompleteness. The approval rate for government -backed home purchase loans was slightly higher at 65.5%. Less than half (47.7%) of refinance applications were approved. The denial rate was greatest for home
improvement loans (27.3%). Overall, these rates are fairly consistent with countywide rates.

Table 3-8: Disposition of Home Loan Applications ( 2017) Loan Type
Total
Applicants
Approved
Denied
Other
Government -Backed Purchase
55 65.45%

23.63%

9.09%
Conventional Purchase
17 64.70%

17.64%

11.76%
Refinance
237

47.67%

24.05%

25.73%
Home Improvement
33 54.54%

27.27%

12.12%
Tota 1
342

52.04 %

23.97 %

21.05 %
Notes:

1. "Appr. Not Accepted" are those applications approved by the lenders but not accepted by the applicants.

2. "Other" includes files closed for incompleteness, and applications withdrawn.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
78 Exhibit 1 98

3. Due to an FFIEC change in the format of reporting, more recent data was not yet available through lendingpatterns at the writing of this report.

Source: www.lendingpatterns.com , Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA), 2017

3.6.2 Price of Land
Land costs include all costs associated with obtaining governmental approval from purchasing the land to any development
improvements proposed. Very high land costs may make housing development more expensive and hinder development. Land costs typically account for a large share of the total housing production costs. High sales prices can make it more difficult for developers to ensure their project is feasible and often pass on the costs to future renters or owners through rents or sale prices. In April 2021, there was one vacant residential site for sale in the City according to Zillow.com. The cost per square foot for the property was $63.69.

An increase in demand increases the value of land. Residential vacancy rates and the location of the City within the Los Angeles Basin are two market constraints that affect the affordability of housing. As Los Angeles development areas continue to expand, Bell Gardens is becoming an increasingly convenient area in which to live.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
79 Exhibit 1 99

3.6.3 Cost of Construction
Construction factors, such as the type of construction, materials, finishing details, square footage, and structural configuration can have an impact on the overall cost of construction. The California Construction Cost Index' is developed based upon Building Cost Index (BCI) cost indices average as produced by Engineering News Record (ENR) to track the cost of construction. The Index identifies an average increase in construction cost of 3.1% year over year since 2015. Naturally, as the demand for housing increased since the recession, the cost of construction increased. In addition, the pandemic has caused a shortage of building material supplies further increasing costs.
,.
construction costs (i.e., permit and impact fees,excavation, .materials, etc.) for a single-familv market -rate home increased from $184,125 in 111 to $296,625 in 2019.
• «.
decreasedhomes has :12 square feet in 2015 to 2,594
.square feet in 1 •2019, total construction cost of a home. accounted for 61.1 percent of the total sales price.

Though construction costs comprise a large portion of the total development cost of a project, these costs are not atypical in Bell Gardens, compared to the County and therefore would not constitute an actual constraint on housing production in the City.

3.6.4 Timing and Density
Market can also constrain the timing between project approval and requests for building permits. In some cases, this may be due to developers' inability to secure financing for construction. In Bell Gardens, the average time between project approval and request for building permit is typically six months.

As described in the Housing Opportunities and Resources section of this Housing Element
wl%%"'%'°"'�' %/ ", " Table 4-2 shows recent mixed -use and multi -family residential projects that were approved in Bell Gardens �
z Source: DGS California Construction Cost Index CCCI
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
HM
Exhibit 1 100

Resources that are available for the development, rehabilitation, and preservation of housing in the City of Bell Gardens are discussed in this section. The analysis demonstrates the City's ability to satisfy its share of the region's future housing need, identifies financial and administrative resources available to support housing activities and facilitate implementation of City housing policies and programs. Opportunities for energy conservation are also explored.

State law requires each community to play a role in meeting the region's housing needs. As such, the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) has allocated the City Bell Gardens housing production goals for the 6t" cycle Housing Element update. This section demonstrates that Bell Gardens has adequate existing residential site capacity to accommodate its share of regional housing needs during the planning period.

4.1.1 Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA)
Requirement
State Housing Element law requires that a local jurisdiction accommodate a share of the region's projected housing needs for the planning period. This share, called the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA), is important because State law mandates that jurisdictions provide sufficient land to accommodate a variety of housing opportunities for all economic segments of the
community. Compliance with this requirement is measured by the jurisdiction's ability in providing adequate land to accommodate the RHNA. SCAG, as the regional planning agency, is responsible for allocating the RHNA to individual jurisdictions within the region.

The RHNA developed and adopted by SCAG covers the growth projection and planning period from June 30, 2021 through October 15, 2029. Bell Gardens must identify adequate land with City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
81 Exhibit 1 101

appropriate zoning and development standards to accommodate its allocation of the regional housing need.

According to the RHNA, Bell Gardens share of regional future housing needs is a total of 503 new units. This allocation is distributed into four income categories, as depicted in Table 32.

The RHNA includes a fair share adjustment which allocates future (construction) need by each income category in a way that meets the State mandate to reduce over -concentration of lower income households in historically lower income communities or areas within the region.

Table 4-1: 2021-2029 6t" Cycle RHNA Allocation
Income Category
# of Units
% of Units
Extremely Low (30% AMI)'
50 9.9%
Very Low (50% AMI)
50 9.9%
Low (80% AMI)
29 5.8%
Moderate (120% AMI)
72 14.3%
Above Moderate (>120% AMI)
302

60.0%
Total Units
503
100.0%
Source: SCAG 6th Cycle Final RHNA Adopted 3/4/2021, approved by HCD on 3/22/21.

AMI = Area Median Income.

Note: * The City has a RHNA allocation of 99 very low income units (inclusive of extremely low income units). Pursuant to State law (AB 2634), the City must project the number of extremely low income housing needs based on Census income distribution or assume 50 percent of the very low income units as extremely low.

4.1.2 Approved and Pipeline Projects
The 61h cycle RHNA projection period began on June 30, 2021.

Therefore, housing units to be permitted after this date can be credited toward the RHNA. As of June 2021, 82 units have been entitled, approved, or in the pipeline. Apartments and ADUs are assumed to be affordable to moderate income households based on the analysis of market rents in Section 2 (see Table -1Market Rents and HUD Fair Market Rents (1) and Table -17: Affordable Housing Costs ()). In part, due to the low rents in the City, rental multi -family housing construction in the City has been limited. All oroiects can be constructed within the eight-vear .. .. underpro*ects was .-
October 2021.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
EM
Exhibit 1 102

Table 4-2: Approved and Pipeline Projects
Project
Zoning
Existing Use
Acres
Densit
Type of
Units
No. of
Units
Income/
Affordability
Status
5953 Florence
Ave
C4
Vacant
parking lot

0.27 14.8
Condos
4 4 Above Mod
Approved
8000 Bell
Gardens
R3
Vacant lot

2.17 22.1
Condos
48 48 Above Mod
Entitled
6430 Foster
Bridge Blvd
R3
Parking lot

0.33 12.1
Condos
4 4 Above Mod
Under
Construction
Chiropract
or office,
6231 & 6301
Eastern Avenue
MU
single-
familv
home. &

0.68 23.5
Condos
and
Retail
16 16 Above Mod
Application
Submitted
vacant
commercial
buildin
6515 Florence
Place
R3
Single-
fail
home

0.16 31.3
3 homes
and 2
ADUs
5 3 Above Mod
2 Mod
Plan Checks
APN 6330-017-
052
R3
Vacant lot

0.30 16.7
A ts.
5 5 Mod
Application
Submitted
Total
82 75 Above Mod
7 Mod

4.1.3 Anticipated Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
New State laws passed since 2017 have substantially relaxed the development standards and procedures for the construction of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). As a result, the City has seen an increase in ADU activities in the community, increasing from just two permitted units in 2018, five permitted units in 2019, and five units permitted in 2020 (with another nine units approved). In 2021, the City has seen a significant increase in ADU submittals and have approved over 30 units to date (as of June 2021) with more anticipated. Based on this trend, the City anticipates permitting 60 ADUs in 2021.

The City is updating its Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Ordinance to comply with recent changes in State law. The Planning Commission conducted a public hearing regarding the ADU Ordinance October

20. 2021. T ; i %��✓
This Housing Element also includes a
;;
program to facilitate the development ADUs. For the purpose of RHNA credits, the City assumes five ADUs annually for a total of 40 ADUs over the eight -year planning period of the Housing Element.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
83 Exhibit 1 103

Following the SCAG Regional Accessory Dwelling Unit Affordability Analysis, the City assumed the affordability distribution for ADUs as shown in Table -3.

Table 4-3: Projection of ADU Activities
Income Level
# of Units
SCAG Affordability
Distribution
Extremely Low Income (30% AM 1)
6 15%
Very -Low Income (31-50% AM 1)
1 2%
Low Income (51-80% AM 1)
17 43%
Moderate Income (81-120% AM 1)
2 6%
Above Moderate Income (>120% AM 1)
14 34%
TOTAL
40 100
Source: SCAG Regional Accessory Dwelling Unit Affordability Analysis 2021

4.1.4 Remaining RHNA
Based on entitled/approved and pipeline projects, as well as the projected ADUs, the City has met a portion of its 61" cycle RHNA already, with a remaining RHNA of 251 units, primarily in the above moderate income level.

Table 4-4: Credits toward RHNA
Income Category
RHNA
Approved/
Entitled/
Pipeline
ADUs
Remaining
RHNA
Extremely Low (30% AMI)1
50 0
6 44
Very Low (50% AM 1)
50 0
1 49
Low (80% AM 1)
29 0
17 12
Moderate (120% AM 1)
72 55
2 15
Above Moderate (>120% AM 1)
302
27 14
251
Total Units
503
82 40
381
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
84 Exhibit 1 104

4.1.5 Available Land for Housing
Affordability and Density
State law establishes specific criteria for feasible sites to accommodate lower income RHNA. For a community with over 25,000 population, the default density is 30 units per acre and the site must be at least 0.5 acre. In Bell Gardens, the R-3 and Mixed Use (MU) zoning districts meet this default density requirement.

The entitled tono e project at 8000 Bell Gardens yielded slightly above 22 units per acre, whereas another pipeline project in -3 zone — 6515 Florence Place — reached the maximum density.

Two other recently built projects also reached similar densities.

The 1-unit project at 71 Eastern Avenue was constructed at a density of 21 units per acre and the 1-unit project at 5600 Shull Street reached . units per acre. While other pipeline -3 projects in Table 4-2 are proposing at lower intensity, that is primarily due todevelopers' choice and product type rather than feasibility based on the City's development standards. The City's first mixed use project achieved 23.5units plus 3,000 square feet of commercial use. Therefore, this achieved density of 22 units per acre is used to estimate future development potential on -3 an MU properties. Furthermore, the mixed use project involves lot consolidation of three different existing uses. With limited vacant land remaining in the City, future residential development is anticipated to occur as recycling of similar existing uses.

For this sites inventory, only sites at or larger than 0.5 acre in size are used to meet the lower income RHNA. Detailed parcel -level data is available in the Appendix.

Sites Previously Identified in 5t' Cycle Housing Element The City of Bell Gardens has identified a neighborhood on the west side of the City as a good candidate for affordable and market -rate housing opportunities. The Gotham Street neighborhood is generally bounded by Bell Gardens Avenue on the west, Clara Street on the north, Eastern Avenue on the east, and Gotham Street on the south, and includes deep lots (more than 300 feet deep) that could be redeveloped for efficient housing with appropriate open space and sufficient parking. Currently, many of the properties are densely populated but underutilized from a land use perspective. There are also several vacant properties within this neighborhood that present excellent opportunities for housing City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
E�".

Exhibit 1 105

development. Facilitating residential development in this neighborhood through recycling of underutilized properties and/or construction on vacant properties also has the potential to alleviate overcrowding issues. The City has identified the following two vacant properties within the Gotham Street neighborhood (Table ).

Table 4-5: Gotham Street Neighborhood — Vacant Sites
Address/
Potential
Income/
GP
Zoning
Existing Use
Acres
APN
Units
Affordability
5500 Quinn St.

High Density
Above
6227-026-001
Multiple Res.

R-3
Vacant

0.18 4
Moderate
6030 Gage Ave.

High Density
Above
6330-017-052
Multiple Res.

R-3
Vacant

0.26 6
Moderate
Sites Not Previously Identified in 5t" Cycle Housing Element Additional opportunities are available in the City's R-3 and MLI Overlay. One R-3 property on Fostoria Street that was recently available on sale. The property is only developed with an old single- family home and some warehousing use.

Significant opportunities exist in the City's MLI Overlay (see Figure 3-1). The areas along Eastern Avenue (between Randolph Street and Lubec Street), Gage Avenue (between Long Beach Freeway and Darwell Avenue), and Eastern (between Clara Street and Quinn Street) are developed with antiquated commercial and
manufacturing uses with occasional, nonconor ing residential homes interspersed throughout these corridors. Typical uses include auto -related, restaurants, and retail with large surface parking lots. Many homes appear to be used for commercial/office uses. However, as a conservative estimate, unless commercial signs are displayed or the assessor data explicitly indicates the homes are used for nonresidential uses, these homes are included as existing residential units and therefore resultiniz in a lower net increase in •� 1=1941MISWITMOMW
.,
old office and retail uses, and nonconforming residential uses are being recycled into residential uses. Specifically, the mixed use City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
E.

Exhibit 1 106

existing FAR of less than 0.20, Another project at 5953 Florence Avenue, approved for four condominium units, is a parking lot located between old commercial uses.

The Mixed Use Overlay allows 3Ounits per acre with anFAR of4.O and uptofour stories. Existing development in the overlay area was developed during the 1950sand 1960s. Current FAR rarely exceeds 0.25 and most properties have not undergone any significant improvements since they were built. Most properties have deferred maintenance or are blighted. Several properties identified in the inventory have delinguent tax status and multiple properties are boarded up and vandalized. The age of these structures combined with the low improvement to land ratio, indicate deferred maintenancellack of significant tenant improvements. Otherwise, reassessment would have occurred to result in a higher improvement to land ratio.
housing continues to outpace the demand for commercial or light industrial uses.

The [bv has not yet amended the Zoning Code to implement the Mixed Use designation but utilizes the R-3standards for the recent project application. Based on density, the MU sites (2O-3Ounits per acre) can also facilitate lower income housing. However, for the purpose ofidentifying sites for all RHNAincome groups, the K4U City ofBell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
87 sites are assigned to the moderate and above moderate income RHNA categories.
condominiums are p• .d Use ResidentiaV .**
Use Permit. Residentiald commercial uses may exist in
mixed-use.conjunction with one another or individually. The proposal of a. residential multi -family pro*ect with or without a commercial use in a approval
.standards residential
designation are set forth in BGMC section 9.12.040, a b9.2113. previouslyAs
requirecondominium pro*ect with or without a commercial use in a mixed - .use zone will
subdivision, a tentative tract map will also be required. Therefore, residentialdesignation
requirewill .
approval .
••
set forth in BGMC section 9.20.140.

Table 4-6: R-3 and MU Overlay — Nonvacant Sites
Address/
Potential
Income/
GP
Zoning
Existing Use
Acres
APN
Units
Affordability
High
R-3 Site
Single-family home and
Density
5629 Fostoria St.

R-3
warehousing;

0.42 9
9 Above Moderate
Multiple
6227-030-026
site was recently on sale
Res.

MU Site #A
Antiquated commercial
6328003047
uses with significant

0.34 6328003052
surface parking

0.34 10 Moderate
6328003049
MU
CM

0.17 30
20 Above Moderate
6328003048
Average I LR — 0.23

0.17 6328003050
Average Year Built —1952

0.17 6328003051
Average FAR — 0.32

0.17 Old retail stores and
services (e.g., laundromat
and dry cleaner) with
MU Site #B
large surface parking,
6330014032
donut shop, barbershop,

0.70 10 Moderate
6330014033
MU
CM
etc.

0. 07
18 8 Above Moderate

0.117 7
6330014035
Average ILR — 0.57
Average Year Built —1960
Average FAR — 0.30
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
E.U.

Exhibit 1 108

Table 4-6: R-3 and MU Overlay - Nonvacant Sites
Address/
Potential
Income/
GP
Zoning
Existing Use
Acres
APN
Units
Affordability
MU Site #C
6328002067

0.13 Antiquated commercial
6328002068

0.13 uses with significant
6328002066

0.13 surface parking
6328002069

0.13 10 Moderate
MU
CM
39 6328002065

0.12 ®
29 Above Moderate
Average ILR - 0.64
6328002075
Average Year Built -1958

0.35 6328002074

0.38 Average FAR - 0.31
6328002070

0.14 6328002072

0.36 Mostly auto -related uses
such as repair and
MU Site #D
equipment rental

0.16 6328003035
MU
CM

0.32 16
16 Above Moderate
6328003034
Average ILR - 0.86

0.21 6328003036
Average Year Built -1968
Average FAR - 0.48
Mostly auto -related uses
MU Site #E
and corner market (liquor

0.26 6328004045
store)

0.25 6328004046
MU
CM

0.21 17
17 Above Moderate
6328004048
Average ILR-1.06

0.25 6328004047
Average Year Built -1962

0.05 6328004049
Average FAR - 0.30
A variety of old retail
MU Site #F
(such as liquor store and
6330015024
corner market), auto, and

0.25 6330015025
restaurant uses (one is

0.18 10 Moderate
6330015026
MU
CM
closed).

0.12 31
19 Above Moderate
6330015023

0.25 6330015050
Average ILR - 0.99

0.26 6330015051
Average Year Built -1953

0.27 Average FAR - 0.22
MU Site #G
6227018002
A variety of old

0.15 6227019008
commercial uses, such as

0.12 6227018003
auto -related, laundromat,

0.15 6227018005
corner market, and

0.06 9 Moderate
6227019007
MU
CM
services

0.12 33
24 Above Moderate
6227018004

0.08 6227018006
Average ILR - 0.84

0.20 6227019020
Average Year Built -1949

0.29 6227018001
Average FAR - 0.32

0.15 6227019019

0.33 City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
E61
Exhibit 1 109

Table 4-6: R-3 and MU Overlay — Nonvacant Sites
Address/
Potential
Income/
GP
Zoning
Existing Use
Acres
APN
Units
Affordability
MU Site #H
Two small restaurants
6227016026
with large surface parking

0.33 6227016005

0.12 MU
CM
19 19 Above Moderate
6227016004
Average ILR — 0.34

0.12 6227016003
Average Year Built —1956

0.12 6227016002
Average FAR — 0.14

0.12 A mix of auto -related,
MU Site #1
office, and laundromat
6328003053
uses, and a small Christian

0.39 6328003040
MU
CM
ministries

0.17 27
27 Above Moderate
6328003041

0.17 6328003042
Average ILR — 0.61

0.34 6328003043
Average Year Built —1954

0.14 Average FAR — 0.30
A mix of old industrial and
MU Site #J
auto -related uses, with

0.15 6328004027
two dilapidated homes

0.13 6328004028
MU
CM

0.27 18
18 Above Moderate
6328004029
Average ILR —1.17

0.26 6328004030
Average Year Built —1952

0.26 6328004031
Average FAR — 0.19
ILR = Improvement to Land Ratio; FAR = Floor Area Ratio Affordable si Development t' -5636 Shull Street
became effective on January 1, 2020,
potential •.b
Purchaseworking on the draft d
DevelopmentAgreement
applications.submittal of the land use entitlement
applications will consist of a General Plan Amendment and zone c an«. rom industrial to residential and a Conditional Use Permit for-
msmm
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
Exhibit 1 110

from contaminants left from the Oil COMDany. Althou rlpqn up has been completed to allow non-residential development, additional clean-up is needed for residential construction. The 'Department of Toxic Substances Control is working,_ NWith the, environmental clean-up consultant to complete the clean-up fo residential purposes. The developer is required to complete this work before actual development can commence.

Additional Sites Identified for Rezoning
The City also identified two properties for rezoning properties that are appropriate for rezoning for residential uses. Rezone Site #1iscomprised oftwo parcels and virtually vacant with asmall 6OO-square-footboarded uphome ona2.8-acrelot. Rezone Site #2iscomprised offive parcels, totaling S.36acres. Four ofthe five parcels are vacant (3.96acres). The remaining parcel isused for light manufacturing with anexisting FAR ofabout O.1O.

City ofBell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
91 Exhibit 1 ill

Table 4-7: Sites Identified for Rezoning
Address/
APN
Current
GP/Zoning
Proposed
Zoning
Existing Use
Acres
Potential
Units
Income/
Affordability
Mostly vacant site
Rezone Site #1
with split zoning;
6262 Gage Ave.

C-3 and R-3
R-3
site has a boarded

2.80 62
Lower
6330-018-075
up home
Rezone Site #2
6358-019-005
(Vacant — No
Address)
This site is
6863 Florence PI
comprised of three
6358-019-006
parcels, two of
(Vacant)
which are vacant.

One parcel has a
6814 Suva St
6,545-square-foot
6358-019-026
M-1
R-3
building on a 1.4-

5.36 118
Lower
(Small building)
acre lot (or an
existing FAR of only
6358-019-027

0.11). The building
(Vacant — No
was constructed in
Address)
1979
6845 Florence PI
6348-019-028
(Vacant)
Summary of RHNA Strategies
All the sites identified in the sites inventory meet the default density of 30 units per acre. However, most sites are located in the MU Overlay where the City is only beginning to see interest in redevelopment. Given that these sites may be more challenging for lower income development, the City has also identified two sites for rezone into R-3 residential uses. With the candidate sites for rezone, the City is able to fully meet its RHNA with an overall buffer of about 20 percent. Furthermore, the City will be fulfilling more than 98 percent of its lower income RHNA on the vacant sites (17 units of the 129 lower income units can be fulfilled on vacant City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
'j
Exhibit 1 112

Table 4-8: Summary of RHNA Strategies
Lower
Moderate
Above
Moderate
Total
5 1h Cycle Reuse Sites - Gotham Street Vacant Sites
0 0
10 10

4.1.6 Availability of Infrastructure and Services
The sites identified above are aninfiUsites within fully developed neighborhoods. Existing infrastructure and services are available toserve residential development onthe sites, asenvisioned bythe General Plan. Some infrastructure may be aging and require replacement orimprovements. However, such improvements are not unique constraints that may impede residential development. 4,1,7 Availability of Water Supply and Sewage Capacity
Existing water delivery and wastewater collection infrastructure is available to all properties identified above and the City has adequate water supply and wastewater treatment capacity to accommodate the required 2O21-2O29RHNAunits.

City ofBell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
93 Figure 4-1: Sites Inventory for RHNA
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City of Bell Gairdens Housing Element Sites Inventory
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City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
94 Exhibit 1 114

The costs associated with the maintenance, preservation, and development of affordable housing, especially for the lowest income households, have continued to increase in recent years.

With income rising at a much slower pace than development costs, the level of required subsidies deepens.

Pepartment of Housing and Community Development (HCD) in. 2020 and again a $4.651
homebuyer mortgage assistance and owner -occupied home

4.2.2 Community Development Block Grants (CDBG)
The federally funded Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) is one of the most important resources for housing and community development activities. CDBG funds can be used for a variety of activities, including housing rehabilitation, supportive services, and public facilities and infrastructure improvements.

The City of Bell Gardens participates in the CDBG program through the County of Los Angeles. With a population less than 50,000, Bell Gardens is not eligible to receive CDBG funding directly from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

However, through Los Angeles County, the City receives an annual CDBG allocation of approximately $650,000. The City uses CDBG funds to make public improvements, provide a variety of supportive services, and perform housing code enforcement activities.

4.2.3 Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC)
Created by the 1986 Tax Reform Act, the LIHTC program has been used to encourage the construction and rehabilitation of rental housing for lower -income households. The program allows investors an annual tax credit over a ten-year period, provided that the housing meets the low-income occupancy requirements: a minimum of 20 percent of the units must be affordable to households at 50 percent of area median income (AMI), or 40 City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
M,
Exhibit 1 115

percent affordable to those at 60 percent of AMI. The tax credit is typically sold to large investors at a syndication value. Park View Terrace in Bell Gardens was developed in part with LIHTC.

8.2.5 S1132 and LEAP Grant Funds
In 2017, Governor Brown signed a $15 billion housing package aimed at addressing the State's housing shortage and high housing costs. Specifically, it included the Building Homes and Jobs Act (SB 2, 2017), which establishes a $75 recording fee on real estate documents to increase the supply of affordable homes in California. Because the number of real estate transactions recorded in each county will vary from year to year, the revenues collected will fluctuate. The first year the state administered Planning Grants knowns as S132 Grants, and the following year a second grant program, Local Early Action Planning, or LEAP grants, was made available to cities. Bell Gardens applied for and obtained founding for both of these grant opportunities.

Grant
On October 14, 2019, the City of Bell Gardens applied for $160,000 in S132 grant funding for the completion of three projects. The projects include the following:
• Project 1 — Update to the Housing Element for the Next Cycle due in 2021.
• Project 2 - General Plan Annual Report and New Sustainability Element.

Projects under the S132 Grant must be completed prior to September 2023.

LF P Grant
On June 30, 2020, the City of Bell Gardens applied for $150,000 in LEAP grant funding. These funds in combination with S132 Grant funding provide the means to complete the Housing Element and one of the other remaining six elements that make up the General Plan.

Projects under the LEAP Grant must be completed prior to December 31, 2023.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
W.

Exhibit 1 116

8.2.6 Home Ownership Program (HOP)
Home Ownership Program HOP - HOP is financed with HOME
funds provided through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and is subject to the applicable federal regulations. Designed to meet the needs of low-income families, HOP provides loans of up to 20 percent of the purchase price for down payment and closing costs assistance, not to exceed $75,000.

Each loan is a second Trust Deed loan, provided at 0 percent interest with all payments deferred until sale, transfer, refinancing, no longer owner -occupied, or full repayment of the first mortgage.

HOP loans are available to first-time homebuyers in the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County and cities participating in the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Urban County Program.

Affordable housing developers have access to a range of funding resources for the construction and acquisition/rehabilitation of affordable housing, including the preservation of existing affordable housing at risk of converting to market -rate housing.

8.3.1 Nonprofit Housing Developers
The City of Bell Gardens partners with a number of nonprofit housing developers to provide affordable housing opportunities.

These organizations can assist the City in the construction, acquisition/ rehabilitation, and preservation of affordable housing, including housing that is at risk of converting to market rate:
■ Nehemiah West: The City partnered with Nehemiah West
in the development of Vinas Las Campanas, a 126-
condominium project for low and moderate income
households.
■ Habitat for Humanity: The City has partnered with Habitat for Humanity to provide four owner occupied affordable
housing units for very low income families using
redevelopment funds.
■ UDI Development: The City partnered with UDI
Development Company to provide the development of 14
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
97 Exhibit 1 117

detached residential dwelling units. This in -fill housing development provided home ownership opportunities to
low and moderate income households in the City.
■ Vista Del Rio, LLC: The City partnered with Telacu
Affordable Housing, Inc., Breamar Urban Ventures and The Lee Group, Inc to develop the Vista Del Rio project. This development provided 53 single-family residential housing units located at 6343 Greenwood Avenue. Of the 53 units constructed, 27 units were deed restricted for low and
moderate income first time home buyers in the City.
■ Clara Vista Homes: The City partnered with Mayan
Development, Inc. to provide the development of single- family residential dwelling units. This in -fill housing development provides home ownership opportunities for
low and moderate income households in the City.
■ National CORE (includes the former Southern California Housing Development Corporation): The City partnered
with National CORE to develop the 72-unit Park View
Terrace Senior Apartments with Low Income Housing Tax
Credits (LIHTC) and redevelopment funds.
■ Abode Communities: The City partnered with Abode
Communities, formerly the Los Angeles Community Design
Center, and developed a 65-unit affordable senior
apartment project, Terra Bella Senior Apartments. This
project provides service -enhanced affordable housing for lower income households.

8.3.2 Other Public Agencies
In addition to the nonprofit developers identified above, the Los Angeles County Community Development Authority (LACDA)
administrative capacity to the City of Bell Gardens. LACDA administers the Mortgage Credit Certificates (MCC), CDBG, and the Housing Choice Vouchers for the City.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
M.

Exhibit 1 118

Energy -related housing costs can directly impact the affordability of housing. While state building code standards contain mandatory energy efficiency requirements for new development, the City and utility providers are also important resources to encourage and facilitate energy conservation and to help residents minimize energy -related expenses.

8.4.1 State Regulations
Title 24 of the California Administrative Code establishes energy conservation standards that must be applied to all new residential buildings. The regulations specify energy saving design for walls, ceilings, and floor installations, as well as heating and cooling equipment and systems, gas cooling devices, conservation standards and the use of non -depleting energy sources, such as solar energy or wind power. Compliance with the energy standards is achieved by satisfying certain conservation requirements and an energy budget. Among the alternative ways to meeting the energy standards are the following:
• Alternative 1: The passive solar approach which requires proper solar orientation, appropriate levels of thermal mass, south facing windows, and moderate insulation
levels.
• Alternative 2: Generally, requires higher levels of insulation than Alternative 1, but has no thermal mass or window
orientation requirements.
• Alternative 3: Also is without passive solar design but requires active solar water heating in exchange for less stringent insulation and/or glazing requirements.

Residential developers must comply with these standards while localities are responsible for enforcing the energy conservation regulations.

8.6.2 State and Federal Programs
The California Department of Community Services and
Development in partnership with the network of local community services agencies that assist lower -income households, administers the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
Exhibit 1 119

LEER tor Existing Buildings
Total Possible Points" 110*
25 sustainaahtesues 2
!%- dater Ettiiciemcy 14
Energy & Mmneaphere
25 htateNals&Resmufrces
to
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4 LIHEAP provides financial assistance to lower income households to offset the costs of heating and/or cooling their residences.

8.6.3 Southern California Edison (SCE) and Southern
California Gas Company Energy Efficiency
Programs
Southern California Edison (SCE) and the Southern California Gas Company offer energy conservation programs to residents of Rolling Hills Estates including audits of home energy use to reduce electricity consumption, refrigerator rebates, appliance repair and weatherization assistance to qualified low income households, buyer's guides for appliances and incentives, by the Gas Company, to switch from electric to gas appliances. Direct assistance to low- income households is provided by the Gas Company through the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) Program and by SCE through its Energy Management Assistance Program.

Both companies have programs to encourage energy conservation in new construction. SCE's energy rebate program applies to residential developers as well as individual customers. SCE also offers an Energy STAR new home program, and Sustainable Communities Program offering design assistance and financial incentives for sustainable housing development projects. The Gas Company's Energy Advanced Home Program is offered to
residential developers who install energy -efficient gas appliances that exceed California energy standards by at least 15%.

8.6.4 Building and Site Design Conservation
Conventional building construction, use and demolition along with the manufacturing of building materials have multiple negative impacts on the environment. A rise in environmental
consciousness has led to the development of various building and site designs that promote conservation. This includes site design standards associated with the orientation of the building, installation of solar panels, and so forth.

In the State of California, the Green Building Order challenges the State government to demonstrate leadership by becoming a model of energy and resource efficiency at state-owned buildings. This has been achieved through attainment of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. Some local jurisdictions City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
100
Exhibit 1 120

have taken this certification as an opportunity to further promote a green building program.

LEED Certification
LEED is an internationally recognized green building certification system that provides different levels of certification in terms of energy efficiency. In summary, it is a third -party verification that a building was designed and built using strategies aimed at improving performance across the following metrics: energy savings, water efficiency, CO2 emissions reduction, improved indoor
environmental quality, and stewardship of resources and sensitivity to their impacts.

There are four levels of progressive certification, based on the total number of points earned within each of the LEED categories noted above, as follows: Certified; Silver; Gold; and Platinum.

A total of six performance measures are utilized to review and promote a whole -building approach to sustainability:
■ Sustainable Site Development
■ Water Efficiency
■ Energy and Atmosphere
■ Materials and Resources
■ Indoor Environmental Quality
■ Innovation and Design
While this is a relatively new concept and certification process, the City has several participants in the LEED program, including an affordable senior housing project. It is the developer's goal to generate enough energy to power all common areas including the community center and all hallways.

It is the City's intent to facilitate the permitting process for commercial and residential property owners wishing to pursue a LEED certification.

Glazing
Energy efficient window glazing resists heat flow. The strategic placement of such windows can reduce energy consumption for more efficient interior climate control. Glazed windows on south - facing walls allow for passive solar heating by allowing direct City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
101
Exhibit 1 121

sunlight to enter a room and warm the space. Because the windows minimize heat flow, this warmth remains in the building.

The sun is higher in the sky during the summer. Therefore, less direct sunlight enters the building during these months than in winter. Also, during winter weather, the glazing minimizes the amount of heat that is transferred directly through the window to the cooler air outside. Typically, avoidance of window placement on the west side of a building will minimize the overheating effects of direct afternoon sun.

Landscaping
Strategically placed vegetation can help regulate the amount of direct sunlight on windows, as well as reduce indirect heating from concrete and other hardscape materials. The incorporation of deciduous trees and vines in landscaping plans along the south and west facing sides of buildings can buffer the heating effects of direct sun light in summer, while allowing winter sun light to warm the building. The use of native or low-water use plants and efficient irrigation, such as drip systems, can minimize water needs for outside landscaping. Time clocks with multiple stations can offer options for varying water needs.

Building Design
There are several variables in the design of a building that impacts the energy efficiency of the structure. The building orientation, placement and specification on windows, and design of details, such as exterior overhead structures and roof overhangs, can affect the passive solar performance of a building. These measures reduce the need for energy -consuming heating and cooling system use. The installation of over -head structures such as eaves, arbors, and roof overhangs can reduce the amount of direct sunlight that passes through windows, thus preventing overheating. An arbor directly above a south -facing window can limit solar access in the summer and allow for passive heating in winter when combined with deciduous vines.

Cooling/Heating Systems
There are several energy -saving alternatives to using traditional energy sources for cooling and heating systems that can reduce the cost of housing. Attic ventilation systems allow rising heat to escape the building. This type of system, such as a whole -house City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
102
Exhibit 1 122

fan, can create an air circulation pattern that encourages the movement of cooler air to circulate through a building with the use of traditional energy sources. Solar heating systems for swimming pool facilities reduce energy costs. Hot water solar panels can provide solar -heated domestic water with minimal use of flow restrictors on all hot water faucets and showerheads.

Weatherization Techniques
Weatherization techniques such as insulation, caulking, and weather-stripping can reduce energy use for air-conditioning up to 55 percent and for heating as much as 40 percent. These techniques help to seal a dwelling unit to guard against heat gain in the summer and prevent heat loss in the winter. Other comfortable benefits include noise and dust reduction.

Efficient Use of Appliances
Most households contain a variety of appliances. Regardless of the types present, appliances can be used in ways which increase their energy efficiency. Elimination of unnecessary appliances and proper maintenance and use of the stoves, ovens, clothes dryers, clothes washers, dishwashers, refrigerators, and other major appliances will keep energy costs to a minimum.

Efficient Use of Lighting
Costs of lighting a home can be reduced through the purchase of efficient light bulbs that produce the most lumens per watt. New fluorescent bulb fixtures can greatly improve lighting levels while reducing energy costs. Compact fluorescent bulbs replace existing incandescent bulbs in average fixtures. These compact fluorescent bulbs are 10 times more efficient and last longer than regular incandescent bulbs. Time clocks, photocell sensors, and motion sensors for security lights and areas where lights might be left on otherwise can make a significant reduction in lighting usage.

Load Management
The time and day when power is used can be as important as how much power is used. Power plants must have enough generating capacity to meet the highest level of consumer demand for electricity. Peak demands for electricity occur on summer afternoons and coincide with higher costs for electric generation.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
103
Exhibit 1 123

Therefore, reduction use of appliances during these peak load hours can reduce the need for new power plants just to meet unusually high power demands and will reduce overall energy costs.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
104
Exhibit 1 124

Previous sections of the Housing Element established the housing needs, constraints, opportunities and resources in the City of Bell Gardens. The Housing Plan presented in this section sets forth the City's goals, policies and programs to address Bell Gardens' identified housing needs:
• Goals are the results that the City desires to achieve over the housing planning period. They are general expressions of values or preferred outcomes, and therefore, are abstract in nature and may not be fully attained. The goals are the basis for City policies and actions during this period.
• Policies are specific statements that will guide decision - making. Policies serve as the directives to developers, builders, service providers, decision makers and others who will initiate or review new development projects or seek to provide housing -related services in Bell Gardens. Some policies stand alone as directives, but others require that additional actions be taken. These additional actions are listed under "programs" below.
• Programs are the core of the City's housing strategy.

Programs translate goals and policies into actions. These include on -going programs, procedural changes, Zoning
Code changes, and other actions that implement the housing policies and help achieve housing goals. Each program
identifies the responsible agency, funding source, timeframe for implementation, and specific objectives.

9.1.1 Conserve and Improve the Condition of the
Existing Affordable Housing Stock.

Housing and neighborhood conservation are important to
maintaining and improving quality of life. While the majority of housing in Bell Gardens is in fair condition, some units show signs of deterioration. Efforts to improve and revitalize housing must address existing conditions, but also focus on encouraging preventive efforts to ensure that housing stock quality is City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
105
Exhibit 1 125

maintained. The policies listed below address the issue of housing and neighborhood conservation.

Goal 1: Housing Preservation
Provide and preserve decent housing within a satisfying living environment for households of all socioeconomic backgrounds.

Policies

1. 1: Promote the rehabilitation of substandard housing units including single-family, multi -family, and mobile homes.

1.2: Encourage the maintenance and repair of existing
owner -occupied and rental housing units to prevent
deterioration.

1.3: Provide and maintain a high level of public facilities and services in all areas of the City.

1.4: Investigate and pursue programs and funding sources available to assist in the improvement of residential
properties.

1.5: Encourage private and public investments to alleviate neighborhood deterioration.

9.1.2 Assist in the Development of Housing for those
with Limited Incomes or Special Needs.

Providing affordable and accessible housing is essential for a healthy community. In addition to a diverse mix of housing types, it is necessary to make available housing for residents of all income levels. Seeking funding from varied sources increases the opportunities for development of affordable housing units. The City actively works with both non-profit and for -profit developers in the production of affordable for -sale and rental housing.

Goal 2: Affordable and Special Needs Housing Opportunities Promote and encourage the provision of decent and affordable housing for all socioeconomic segments of Bell Gardens residents.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
106
Exhibit 1 126

Policies

2.1: Encourage new housing construction for
homeownership in a mixture of price ranges ad housing
types.

2.2: Continue to pursue and utilize federal and state
assistance for the provision of affordable housing,
including extremely low income households and those
with special needs.

9.1.3 Identify Adequate Residential Sites
A major element in meeting the housing needs of all segments of the community is the provision of adequate sites of all types, sizes, and prices of housing. Persons and households of different ages, types, incomes, and lifestyles have a variety of housing needs and preferences that evolve over time and in response to changing life circumstances. Providing an adequate supply and diversity of housing accommodates changing housing needs of residents. The Bell Gardens General Plan and Zoning Code establish where housing may locate. To provide adequate housing and maximize use of limited land resources, new development should be constructed at appropriate densities that maximize the intended use of the land. To facilitate new residential development, the City plays an important role in both assisting in the identification and promotion of potential sites for future development.

Goal 3: Identification of Adequate Sites
Provide suitable sites for housing development which can accommodate a range of housing by type, size, location, price, and tenure to accommodate the City's share of the regional housing need.

Policies

3.1: Maintain an up-to-date residential sites inventory and provide to interested developers with information on
available development incentives.

3.2: Continue to pursue federal and state funds designed to facilitate land acquisition.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
107
Exhibit 1 127

3.3: Encourage the recycling of underutilized residential and mixed use parcels where such recycling is consistent
with established land use plans.

3.4: Ensure that all residential areas are provided with adequate public facilities and services.

3.5: Promote mixed -use development and accessory
dwelling units (ADUs) to facilitate smart growth and
reduction in automobile trips, vehicle miles traveled,
and associated energy consumption.

3.6 Implement land use policies that allow for a range of residential densities and products, including low -
density single-family uses, moderate -density
townhomes, and higher -density apartments,
condominiums, and units in mixed -use development.

9.1.4 Address and Remove Governmental Constraints
to the Maintenance, Improvement, and
Development of Housing.

Market factors and government regulations can significantly impact the production and affordability of housing. Although market conditions are often beyond the direct influence of any jurisdiction, efforts can be directed at ensuring the reasonableness of land use controls, development standards, permit -processing, fees and exactions, and governmental requirements to encourage housing production.

Goal 4: Removal of Governmental Constraints
Continue to explore and implement strategies designed to remove unnecessary governmental constraints to the maintenance, improvement and development of housing.

Policies

4.1: Periodically review the City's regulations, ordinances, fees/exactions to ensure they do not unduly constrain
the production, maintenance, and improvement of
housing.

4.2: Maintain lower fees for qualifying projectsto encourage construction of affordable housing.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
108
Exhibit 1 128

4.3: Offer regulatory incentives and concessions for
affordable housing, such as relief from development
standards, density bonuses, or fee waivers where
deemed to be appropriate.

4.4: Provide for streamlined, timely, and coordinated
processing of residential projects to minimize holding
costs and encourage housing production.

4.5: Support infill development at suitable locations and provide, where appropriate, incentives to facilitate their development.

9.1.5 Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing
The City seeks to expand the range of housing opportunities provided in Bell Gardens, including housing for seniors on fixed incomes, lower and moderate income residents (including extremely low income households), the disabled, large families, female -headed households with children, and the homeless. In order to make adequate provision for the housing needs of all segments of the community, the City must ensure equal and fair housing opportunities are available to all residents whether through mediating disputes, investigating bona fide complaints of discrimination, or through the provision of education services. The provision of fair housing services is an important tool to ensure fair and equal access to housing. Implementation of place -based strategies to address equal access to resources is also a theme of the affirmatively furthering fair housing goal. The following policies are designed to continue implementation of applicable fair housing laws.

Goal 5: Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing
Ensure that all residents have equal housing opportunities, regardless of their special characteristics as protected under State and Federal fair housing laws.

Policies

5.1: Affirmatively further fair housing and promote equal housing opportunities for persons of all socioeconomic
segments of the community.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
109
Exhibit 1 129

5.2: Promote housing along with supportive services to
meet the special housing needs of seniors, homeless
individuals and families, and the disabled.

5.3: Encourage the provision of housing to meet the needs of families of all sizes.

5.4: Facilitate increased participation among traditionally underrepresented groups in the public decision -making
process.

5.5: Provide increased outreach and education for the
broader community of residents, residential property
owners and operators, regarding fair housing practices
and requirements, especially through non-traditional
media.

5.6: Promote increased enforcement of fair housing laws.

9.2 Housing Programs d Implementation
Measures
The goals and policies outlined in the prior section address Bell Gardens' identified housing needs and are implemented through a series of housing programs offered primarily through the City's Community Development Department. Housing programs define the specific actions the City will undertake to achieve the stated goals and policies with the eight -year (2021-2029) planning period.

The City's housing programs for addressing community housing needs is described according to the following five issue areas. • Housing Conservation and Improvement
• Housing Assistance
• Provision of Adequate Housing Sites
• Removal of Governmental Constraints
• Promotion of Equal Housing Opportunity
This section describes the programs that Bell Gardens will implement to address these areas. The housing programs
described as follows contain existing, modified, and new programs needed to address the housing needs identified in Sections 2 through 4. Below is a summary of each program, the eight -year City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
110
Exhibit 1 130

quantified objective, the proposed funding source, and the agency responsible for implementing the program.

5.2.1 Preserve and Improve Existing Housing
Conserving and improving the housing stock is an important goal for the City of Bell Gardens. Approximately 80 percent of housing units in Bell Gardens were constructed prior to 1990 and are therefore more likely to have rehabilitation needs than newer housing units. Due to the advanced age of the City's housing stock, programs to address building conditions will facilitate the upkeep of housing for the benefit of resident health. Programs to monitor, preserve, and improve the existing supply of affordable housing can also help accomplish the City's goal to build stronger and more vibrant residential neighborhoods
Program 1: Code Enforcement and Community Preservation
Activities
The City of Bell Gardens has implemented a systematic code enforcement program to eliminate those conditions that are detrimental to the health, safety, and public welfare, and which contribute to the deterioration of the housing stock. Emphasis has been placed on correcting building and other code violation and deficiencies in deteriorated structures and in removing units that cannot be rehabilitated.

The Code Enforcement program is divided into two separate programs:
• Property Maintenance Program —This program focuses on nuisance abatement and the City's landscaping codes.
• Housing Rehabilitation Code Enforcement Program — This program focuses on housing conditions and
building/housing code corrections.

The Code Enforcement Officers work with Community
Development staff to educate residents and provide referrals to the City's housing programs in cases where the property owner/tenant might benefit from the available housing
improvement programs.

Responsible Agency: Community Development
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
111
Exhibit 1 131

Financing: CDBG and General Fund
Actions and Timeframe:
• To encourage the conservation and maintenance of existing units in compliance with building code, zoning and
environmental standards, on an annual basis the City will provide public educational information on their social
media sites about property maintenance requirements.

Information on common code violations will be provided at the public counter, on the City's website, and periodically in the City newsletter.
• Ongoing implementation and annual monitoring
throughout the planning period.

Qualified Objectives: One annual educational campaign about maintenance requirements on social media.

Address substandard housing conditions for
five units annually.

Program 2: Preservation of Affordable Housing
One project, the 74-unit Westminster Court senior housing, is considered at risk of converting to market -rate housing due to the potential expiration of its Section 8 contract. The City will work to preserve the affordability of the project.

Responsible Agency: LACDA and Community Development
Financing: HUD
Actions and Timeframe:
• Monitor the status of Westminster Court by maintaining contact with the property owner and operator. Contact
property owner by 2024 (three years before potential
conversion) to gain understanding of the owner's intent. • If owner intents to opt out of affordable housing, research State and federal funds available for preservation of at -risk housing and support funding application by the property owner to maintain affordability.
• In the event of conversion to market -rate housing, ensure the property owner provides proper notifications to tenants.

New State law requires noticing tenants at least three years before the intent to opt out of affordable housing, with City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
112
Exhibit 1 132

Exhibit 1
follow-up noticing one-year and six-month prior to
conversion.
• Educate tenants on resources available for assistance.

Qualified Objectives: Work to preserve all 74 affordable units at Westminster Court.

5.2.2 Assist in the Provision of Affordable Housing
The City seeks to assist the real estate market provide decent housing and a suitable living environment for all Bell Gardens residents. The following programs provide assistance to developers of new affordable housing development or expand housing choices for income qualified residents of Bell Gardens.

Program 3: Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)
The Los Angeles County Development Authority (LACDA)
administers the Section 8 Program on behalf of the City of Bell Gardens. The Section 8 Program extends rental subsidies to very low income households (50% AMI), including families, seniors, and persons with disabilities. The program offers a voucher that pays the difference between the current fair market rent (FMR) as established by HUD and what a tenant can afford to pay (i.e., 30% of household income). The voucher allows a tenant to choose housing that costs above the payment standard, providing the tenant pays the extra cost.

Responsible Agency:

Financing:

Actions and Timeframe:

LACDA
HUD Section 8 allocation
• Continue to promote the Housing Choice Voucher to
residents and property owners through dissemination of
brochures and public counters, providing information on the City's website, and referring residents and property owners to LACDA.
• Add LACDA programs to the City's Affordable Housing
Opportunity webpage by the end of 2021.
• By 2022, work with LACDA and its fair housing contractor to promote acceptance of Housing Choice Vouchers through
outreach and education to renters and rental property
managers. Specifically, California legislature passed SB 329 City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update 113
133

in 2019, which redefines source of income as "lawful,
verifiable income paid directly to a tenant or to a
representative of a tenant, or paid to a housing owner or landlord on behalf of a tenant, including federal, state or local public assistance, and federal, state, or local housing subsidies, including, but not limited to, federal housing assistance vouchers issues under Section 8 of the United States Housing Act of 1937." SB 222 passed in 2019 also extends the same protection to VASH (Veterans Affairs
Supportive Housing) voucher recipients.
• By 2022, include Source of Income protection materials from LACDA's fair housing service contractor in ADU
application/ promotion materials.

Qualified Objectives: Annually promote the use of Housing Choice Vouchers by providing informational
materials to rental property managers.

Program 4: Affordable Housing Development
Lower income (including those with extremely low income) and special needs populations have more difficulty obtaining affordable housing. Special needs groups include the elderly, disabled (including developmentally disabled), large households, female - headed households, and homeless. To encourage and facilitate affordable housing development in Bell Gardens, the City will provide the following incentives to private developers, along with information regarding the availability of funding, through federal and state housing assistance:
• Provide technical assistance to developers regarding City R- 3 zoning and Mixed Use Overlay, and density bonus
incentives.
• Encourage the use of density bonus to facilitate affordable housing development.
• As needed to enhance project feasibility, provide relaxed development standards for development projects that
include an affordable housing component.
• Provide letters of support for funding applications by developers.

Responsible Agency
Financing:

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
Exhibit 1 134
Community Development
General Fund
114

Actions & Timeframe:
• Outreach to affordable housing developers annually to explore opportunities for affordable housing. Outreach
should include developers with experience in development projects that include units affordable to extremely low income households and households with special needs.
• Continue to provide regulatory and technical assistance to affordable housing developers.
• Annually explore various sources (e.g., HCD and HUD) for funding opportunities, including those available for housing for extremely low income and special needs households.
• Apply for, or support, applications for affordable housing funds, for projects or programs that are consistent with the goals and objectives of the Housing Element.

Qualified Objectives: Expand affordable housing inventory by 129 units over eight years.

Program 5: Homebuyer Assistance Programs
.Department
2020 and again a $4.651
homebuyer mortgage assistance and owner -occupied home
rehabilitation. The CalHome Program is intended to assist deferred.individual first-time home buyers through
rehabilitation,for Down Payment assistance, owner -occupied home self-help(ADUs), homebuyer counseling, technical assistance for programs that provide direct match services. The City has five years to use the grants. Thus far, more than housing pro*ects, and/or technical assistance for shared housing inquiries have
1 • �01
Responsible Agency: Community Development
Financing: Cal o e
Actions & Timeframe:

Promote the CalHome program on City .,and
marketing flyers.

Qualified Objectives: By 2026,
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
115
Exhibit 1 135

Exhibit 1

5.2.3 Identify Adequate Residential Sites
Bell Gardens is a near built out community. Recent and future residential development relies primarily on the redevelopment of nonvacant properties, specifically where mixed use development is permitted. Based on current zoning, the City has a shortfall of 93 lower income units. The City has identified three areas for rezoning to R3 to meet this shortfall (see Table 4-7: Sites Identified for Rezoning), including a site that the City is pursuing a development agreement for an affordable housing project of 98 units. Projects on reuse and rezone sites are subject to by -right approval if the projects set aside 20% of the units as lower income housing.

State law (AB 1397) also requires that when development occurs on nonvacant sites with existing residential units, that as a condition of project approval, the project must replace the existing units on site that were deed -restricted or occupied by lower income households.

Responsible Agency: Community Development
Financing: None Required
Actions & Timeframe:
• By October 15, 2024, rezone at least five acres of land to R3 meeting the following requirements:
- Minimum density is at least 20 units per acre
- Maximum density is at least 30 units per acre
- Sites will permit rental and ownership housing and each site is adequate to accommodate at least 16 units to
accommodate a total shortfall of 93 lower income units.

Pursuant to State law (AB 1397), amend the Zoning
Ordinance in 2022 to provide by -right approval for projects that set -aside 20 percent of the units affordable to lower income households if the projects are located on:
- Reuse sites from the 51" cycle Housing Element (Table 4-: Gotham Street Neighborhood —Vacant Sites).

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update 116
136

City ofBell Gardens
��n.
��zonesitesforthe6mcyc|e|ovver income RHNA (jab e
4-7: Sites Identified for Rezoning)
� Pursuant toState law (AB 1397)amend the Zoning Code to require the replacement ofexisting affordable units or units occupied by lower income households on sites
the City's lower income .

OProvide information on available sites and development incentives to interested developers and property owners on Qualified Objectives: Provide adequate sites toaccommodate the [it's lower income RHNAa||ocation ofl29 units (100very |ovv income and 29 low income units).

Income RHINIA
MORRUM
Cit4 has a shortfall of 14 moderate income units i which can be Responsible Agency: Community Development
Financing: None Required
By the end of 2022, amend the Zoning Code to include
clevelooment standards to imolement the Mixed Use
By October 15, 2024, rezone "5636 Shull Street as
or to identify additional replacement sites in the Mixed U area to fulfill the Citv's remainine-niodp-x,3tp--hacomp--RHNI incentives to interested developers and propert =ownersl City website.
117

11 1 1 1 111lizil''itI11:11 -I gl�
CitV's moderate and above moderate income RHNA allocation of 374 units (72 moderate income and 302 above moderate income IWOTM.-Jan
capacity as development occurs to ensure continued ability to meet the full RHNA during the eight -year planning period. Given the City's small size, Bell Gardens is able to monitor the status of Potential sites and will continue to provide sites information to. interested developers. To ensure that the City monitors its compliance with SB 166 (No Net Loss), the City will develop a procedure to track:
included in the sites inventory.

Actual units constructed and income
parcels are developed.

ONO=
in meeting remaining Regional Housing Needs Allocati
(RHNA). I
Responsible Agency: Community Development
Financing: None Required
Actions & Tirnefrarne:

Pursuant to State law (SB 166), develop a procedure in 2022 to monitor the development of vacant and nonvacant sites in the sites inventory and ensure that adequate sites are available to meet the remaining RHNA by income categor
throughout the eight -year planning period.
continued ability to meet its full RHNA of 503 units bV all income .IXff4,EMEWMj=IvMM
� 9 M-MMO
more efficieptXIachieve economies of scale, and offer gppgrtunitNt for improved site design and amenities. The CitV encourages the consolidation of small lots to facilitate the development of mixed - City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
118
Exhibit 1 138

consolidation potential.

Continuing to utilize a ministerial process for IcM
consolidation unless other discretionary reviews a
required as part of the pro*ect. i
Responsible Agency: Community Development
Financing: None Required
Identify appropriate tools and incentives to facilitate loll consolidation, especially in Mixed Use area, in 2022.
tools and incentives are adequate and appropriatle
incen
facilitate development of small lots, and ad*ust7tiv
or utilize other mechanisms as appropriate.

Program 10: Density Bonus Ordinance
The State has recently passed several bills that change the State Density Bonus law. These include:
� AB 1763 (Density Bonus for 100 Percent Affordable
Housing)— Density bonus and increased incentives for 100 percent affordable housing projects for lower income
households.
� SB 1227 (Density Bonus for Student Housing) Density
bonus for student housing development for students
enrolled atafull-time college, and toestablish prioritization for students experiencing homelessness.
� AB234S(Increase Maximum Allowable Density) Revised
the requirements for receiving concessions and incentives, and the maximum density bonus provided.

Responsible Agency: Community Development
Financing: None Required
City ofBell Gardens
119

• Revise the Zoning Code to update density bonus provisions consistent with State law in 2022.
• Promote the use of density bonus incentives and provide technical assistance to developers in utilizing density bonus provisions to maximize feasibility and meet local housing needs.

Qualified Objectives: Not applicable.

Program : Accessory Dwelling Units
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) represent an important affordable housing option to lower- and moderate -income households. The State has passed multiple bills in recent years to remove constraints to the development ADUs (including AB 587, AB 671, AB 68, and SB 13, among others). The City has updated its ADU ordinance in 2017 to comply with State law, and has created user friendly ADU handouts detailing the process, sample site and floor plans, and development standards. However, additional revisions are necessary to comply with recent changes to ADU requirements.

The new ADU ordinance to comply with State law is anticipated to e considered y the City Council on November 8, 2021 with the ordinance being effective in early 2022.

Responsible Agency: Community Development
Financing: CalHome Fund
Actions & Timeframe:
• Amend Zoning Code in 2021 to comply with new State law on ADU provisions.
• By the end of 2022, review and update informational
handouts as needed to ensure clarity and ease of use.
• Develop additional incentives and tools to facilitate ADU construction by the end of 2022. Incentives may include, but at not limited to, expedited review, pre -approved plans, or website information on resources and technical assistance. • Promote the availability of Cal o e funs to assist
households in construction ADUs (see Program 5).

Monitor the ADU development trend annually to ensure
production is in line with the estimate presented in the Housing Element. If production falls short of estimate by 2025, reassess the City's sites inventory for RHNA and
ensure adequate capacity remains to accommodate the
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
120
Exhibit 1 140

City's RHNA for all income levels, and explore additional incentives for ADU construction kli
Qualified Objectives: Facilitate the construction of 40 ADUs over eight years.

5.2.4 Address and Remove Governmental Constraints
Program : Housing for Special Needs
Recent changes to State law regarding housing for the homeless and persons with special needs also warrant amendments to the Zoning Code. These include:
• Low Barrier Navigation Centers (AB 101): AB 101 requires cities to allow a Low Barrier Navigation Center development by right in areas zoned for mixed uses and nonresidential zones permitting multifamily uses if it meets specified requirements. A "Low Barrier Navigation Center" is defined as "a Housing First, low -barrier, service -enriched shelter focused on moving people into permanent housing that
provides temporary living facilities while case managers connect individuals experiencing homelessness to income, public benefits, health services, shelter, and housing." Low Barrier shelters may include options such as allowing pets, permitting partners to share living space, and providing storage for residents' possessions.

Emergency and Transitional Housing (AB 139): Local
governments may include parking requirements for
emergency shelters specifying that adequate parking must be provided for shelter staff only, but overall parking requirements for shelters may not exceed the requirements for residential and commercial uses in the same zone. The City's Zoning Code includes specific parking requirements for emergency shelters that are not consistent with AB 139.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
121
Exhibit 1 141

• Supportive Housing (AB 2162): AB 2162 requires
supportive housing projects of 50 units or fewer to be
permitted by right in zones where multi -family and mixed - use developments are permitted, when the development
meets certain conditions. The bill also prohibits minimum parking requirements for supportive housing within % mile of a public transit stop.

Employee Housing: Pursuant to the Employee Housing Act, employee housing for six or fewer persons should be
treated as a single-family residential use to be similarly permitted as single-family homes in the same zone.

Responsible Agency: Community Development
Financing: None Required
Actions & Timeframe: Revise the Zoning Code by the end
of 2022 to address AB 101, AB 139,
AB 2162, Employee Housing Actl��/��
///iiri h �/f rri� /y///O%/ll/'%///�///'////%
Qualified Objectives: Not applicable
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
122
Exhibit 1 142

5.2.5 Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing
The following programs represent the City's proactive actions to affirmatively further fair housing and to address the issues and contributing factors identified in Appendix D: Assessment of Fair Housing.

Program 1 : Fair Housing Outreach and Education
The City participates in the Regional Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice (AI) as part of the Urban County program. The Al identifies a number regional and jurisdictional specific impediments to fair housing choice. The City will continue to participate in the Urban County program and take actions to fair housing impediments.

Responsible Agency: LACDA; Housing Authority of the
County of Los Angeles
Financing: Urban County CDBG Allocation
Actions & Timeframe:
• Coordinate with Fair Housing Foundation to conduct annual fair housing workshops in the subregion and assist in the promotion of fair housing workshops available in the
subregion.
• By 2023, advocate to LACDA to expand fair housing scope of work for fair housing provide to collect and report fair housing records that are specific to each jurisdiction in the Urban County program.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
123
Exhibit 1 143

Qualified Objectives: Not applicable
Program 1 : Housing Mobility and Housing Choices
The City will expand housing choices for lower income households through the following actions:
• Actively pursue affordable housing opportunities in the City. Specifically, promote homeownership housing
opportunities such as condominiums and townhomes
through the City's Mixed Use Overlay.

Promote the use of Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV) by
educating the community about Source of Income
protection (see Program 3).

Responsible Agency:

Financing:

Actions & Timeframe:

Community Development
None required
'; ///,Work with LACDA and Fair Housing Foundation (fair housing contractor) to educate the community about the HCV
program and Source of Income protection 8, , , %,%
• Expand affordable housing opportunities by 100 units over eight years (Program 4).

Qualified Objectives: Increase use of HCV by 10% and expand affordable housing opportunities by 129
units.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
124
Exhibit 1 144

Program 15: Place -Based Neighborhood Improvements
The City participates in the and receives an annual allocation of CDBG funds from HUD through the County of Los Angeles Community Development Authority (LACDA). These funds are used to install and upgrade public facilities (streets, curb, gutter, drainage facilities, and utilities) in lower income neighborhoods. The infrastructure improvements encourage increased private market investment in declining or deteriorating neighborhoods.

Responsible Agency: LACDA and Community Development
Department
Financing: CDBG
Actions and Timeframe: Annually apply to LACDA for CDBG funds.

Qualified Objectives: Complete eight infrastructure and public facility improvement projects
by 20290
" o . -
was signed, the City immediately took action to protect tenants during the period of September 2019 through the end of 2019 by adopting an urgencV rent control ordinance. The City allowed its ordinance to expire the Covid-19 pandemic, the City decided to hold off on Dursuit of its own ordinance. However, at the start of 2021, the City was approached o non-profit organizations to once againoo* at additional tenant protections that State law does not address. The Rent Control Ad Hoc Committee was re -activated with seven members consisting of two Councilmembers,two tenants, two landlords,d a non-profit City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
125
Exhibit 1 145

Responsible Agency: Community Development
Financing: None required
Actions and Timeframe:
• Conduct public workshops in
• Adopt a rent control ordinance that complements AB 1482 in 2022.

Qualified Objectives: Not applicable.

5.3 Quantified Objectives
The City of Bell Gardens has established the following quantified objectives for the 2021-2029 Housing Element:

Table 9-1: Quantified Housing Objectives
I'M
ME
11 New Construction
50 50
29 72
302
503
Preservation
(Code Enforcement of
10 10
20 0
0 40
substandard housing)
Conservation
37 37
0 0
0 74
(At -Risk Housing)
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update 126
Exhibit 1 146

A.1 Outreach List
Section 65583(c)(5) of the Government Code states that "The local government shall make diligent effort to achieve public participation of all the economic segments of the community in the development of the housing element, and the program shall describe this effort." Public participation played an important role in the formulation and refinement of the City's housing goals and policies and in the development of a Land Use Plan which determines the extent and density of future residential development in the community.

The following is the list of individuals and organizations that were notified of community workshops and public hearings for the 2021-2029 Housing Element. Postcards in English and Spanish were sent to these agencies and organizations.

Business
Contact Information
Rio Hondo boys and Girls club
info(d�becmla.org
Bell Gardens Community Services Center
becommunity(ftellgardens.org
Habitat for Humanity
USSupportCenter(cDhabitat.org
Azure Development
int@c zuredevelopmentco.com
Bell Gardens Lions Club
bglions(dittmail.com
Bell Gardens Convalescent Center/ Briarcrest Nursing Home staff (cDbriarcrestnursing.com
San Pedro Region of Catholic Charities
bhackman(d�ccharities.org
Sunrise Community Counseling
info(cDsunriseccc.org
Maravilla Foundation
Info(Waravilla.orq
Mayans Development
scott(doavansdevelopment.com
Mexican American Opportunity Foundation
rrla(@maof.org
Fraternal Order of Eagles
frate rnaleagles(d�sbcglobal. net
East Rancho Dominguez Service Center
TBrookins(c�wdacs.lacounty.gov
New Image Emergency Shelter
newimage-inc(c�msn.com
The Enki Center
562) 806-5000
Salvation Army Homeless Shelter
Steve.Lytle(@usw.salvationarmy.org
TELACU Development Corporation
info(d�TELACU.com
National Core
info(@nationalcore.org
Abode Communities
info(d�abodecommunities.org
The Lee Group; and
475 WASHINGTON BLVD, Marina Del Rey, CA
90292
Olson Company
3010 Old Ranch Parkway, Suite 100, Seal Beach, CA
90740
Steven Senemar
18340 YORBA LINDA BLVD # 107 YORBA
LINDA, CA 92886
American Legion Post 465
7550 Eastern Ave, Bell Gardens, CA 90201
Human Services Association
6800 Florence Ave, Bell Gardens, CA 90201
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
Al
Exhibit 1 147

Business
Contact Information
Bell Gardens Family Medical Center
6501 Garfield Ave, Bell Gardens, CA 90201
Bell Gardens Association of Merchants and Commerce
7535 Perry Rd. Bell Gardens CA 90201
Del Rio Convalescent Center
7004 E Gage Ave, Bell Gardens, CA 90201
Old Timers Foundation
No Answer and website is not Valid
Rancho Southeast Association of Realtors
10900 E. 183rd Street Suite #120, Cerritos, CA
90703
Park View Terrace
6728 Clara St, Bell Gardens, CA 90201
Westminster Court
6850 Florence Ave., Bell Gardens, CA 90201
Young at Heart Senior Citizens Group
6662 Loveland Street, Bell Gardens, CA, 90201
Luis Rincon
562.756.8839
Bell Gardens Neighborhood Watch
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
A2
Exhibit 1 148

I
MIERCOLES 17 DE FEBRERO DE 2021,
La Ciudad de Bell Gardens esta en proceso de adUali7ar el Flernento de Vivienda para et Pe(todo de Planiftcaci6n 2021-2029 y solicita su participaci6n. Esta es su oportunidad de aprender acerca de [a actualtzact6ri del Elemento de Vivienda.

Tatter de to Comunidad #1 cubrirA los conceptos b6sicos die tos requisitos de actualtzaci6n del Elemento de Vivienda y esta destinado a identIficar Las necesidades de vivienda que deben abordarse.

El Elemento de Vivienda Oicluye metas, p6tizas, prograrrias y objetivos cuantifiLcaclos pars atbergar adeCIIJadamente a nUestra poblaci6n fUtura.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17,2021
6:00 PM
The City of Bell Gardens is in the process of updating the Housing Element for the 2021-2029 Ptanning Period and would Re your participation. This is your chance to tearn about the Housing Element Update.

Community Workshop #1 wilt cover th,e basics of the Housing Etement Update requirements and is intended to identify housing needs that should be addressed.

The Hiousing Element includes goals, PORCieSr programs, and quantified objectives for adequately housing our future population.

For molp informahon, please cot? tact HotisingEIL-n?entgbgllcaiden-5-oL or c. nu711 the mbet on ffiispostcafd q
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update A3
Exhibit 1 149

f 1
J f
I
444
.
s the City is in the process of completing the
General Plan Housing Element Update for the
2021-2029 Planning Period, the second. orn--
nmunity Workshop will be taking place during a
Special Planning Commission rincetin ; can
Wednesday, AugLISt 25 Ihat 6:oo p.m. During
the workshop staff and the consultant will in-
troduce and provide the Planning Commission
and the connnnnnnity with an overview of key is-
sues discussed in the "DRAFT Housing, Ele-
ment. I he Workshop will allow the. opportuni-
ty for the community and stakeholders to pro-
vide their input and ask questions to staff and
the consultant regarding the future of housing
and growth throughout the City.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
WHEN
2021 @6PM

EQUAL HOUSING
OPP'OR
A4
Exhibit 1 150

A.2 Public Workshops
The City conducted two public workshops before the Planning Commission on the Draft Housing Element. The February 17, 2021 meeting provided an overview of the scope of the Housing Element and solicit public input on housing needs, opportunities for new housing, and housing programs. The discussions focused on the ability of the City in meeting the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) on underutilized sites and how to attract new development to the City.

On August 25, 2021, the City conducted a second workshop before the Planning Commission to review the Draft Housing Element.

A.3 Draft Housing Element for Public Review
The Draft Housing Element was made available for public review on the City website on August 17, 2021 prior to the August 25, 2021 workshop, with a public comment period through October , 2021. During the comment period, the City received a comment letter from the Public Counsel (see attached). The Citv met with reresentatives of the Public Counsel to discuss their . ,rC "7"'11WI -. r
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
A5
Exhibit 1 151

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D.1 Introduction and Overview of AB 686
In January 2017, Assembly Bill 686 (AB 686) introduced an obligation to affirmatively further fair housing (AFFH) into California state law. AB 686 defined "affirmatively further fair housing" to mean "taking meaningful actions, in addition to combat discrimination, that overcome patterns of segregation and foster inclusive communities free from barriers that restrict access to opportunity" for persons of color, persons with disabilities, and other protected classes. The Bill added an assessment of fair housing to the Housing Element which includes the following components:
• a summary of fair housing issues and assessment of the City's fair housing enforcement and outreach capacity;
• an analysis of segregation patterns and disparities in access to opportunities; • an assessment of contributing factors; and
• an identification of fair housing goals and actions.

The AFFH rule was originally a federal requirement applicable to entitlement jurisdictions (with population over 50,000) that can receive HUD Community Planning and Development (CPD) funds directly from HUD. Before the 2016 federal rule was repealed in 2019, entitlement jurisdictions were required to prepare an Assessment of Fair Housing (AFH) or Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice (AI). AB 686 states that jurisdictions can incorporate findings from either report into the Housing Element.

D.2 Assessment of Fair Housing Issues
D.2.1 Fair Housing Enforcement and Outreach
Los Angeles County jurisdictions including Bell Gardens, have the option of contracting with the Housing Rights Center (HRC). The Housing Rights Center investigates and resolves discrimination complaints, conduct discrimination auditing and testing, and education and outreach, including the dissemination of fair housing information such as written material, workshops, and seminars. They also provide landlord/tenant counseling, which is another fair housing service that involves informing landlords and tenants of their rights and responsibilities under fair housing law and other consumer protection regulations, as well as mediating disputes between tenants and landlords. The Housing Rights Center has a main office location in downtown Los Angeles. The City of Bell Gardens provides links to all of the Housing Rights Center's brochures on their Fair Housing Informational city web page, which include information on rights of households with different characteristics such as disability and family size/type, as well as providing information for landlords.

The Housing Authority of the County of Los Angeles (HACoLA) provides fair housing resources for residents via its website, such as links to file complaints of a violation of fair housing, a link to the Housing Rights Center, a link to HUD's webpage on Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity, link to the National Fair Housing Advocate Online blog, a copy of City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update D1
Exhibit 1 167

HACoLA's non-discrimination policy, and a link to information on the Assessment of Fair Housing.

The Fair Housing Stakeholder Survey conducted from January through April 2017 by the HACoLA for the Al was administered electronically and collected a total of 108 responses.

One question asked respondents where they would file a complaint if they felt that their fair housing right had been violated. Twelve of the 63 respondents who answered this question (45 skipped) did not know where they would file such a complaint. Thirteen respondents answered that they would file with HUD, while several others mentioned the local housing authority. Only 7 answered with the Housing Rights Center. The other answers varied between a smattering of local and state agencies or attorneys. Another questions asked if they feel that fair housing laws are adequately enforced in the City or County and 28 out of 77 answered no, while 19 answered yes. Thirty answered don't know, although 31 skipped the question. When asked, in the next question, if fair housing laws should be changed, 44 percent (34 out of 77) answered don't know. Twenty-five answered yes, while 18 answered no. Of those who answered in the affirmative, they were asked how they should be changed and the responses varied greatly. One cogent answer included having a more accurate assessment of rental and housing market prices and processes to ensure access to the protected categories. Several of the responses dealt with rental caps in an effort to make rental housing affordable, while other respondents felt that violation of fair housing laws should be more stringently enforced.

And finally, respondents were asked if they were aware of educational activities or training opportunities available to learn more about fair housing laws; 42 answered yes, while 27 answered no. Five answered don't know and 34 skipped the question entirely. If respondents answered yes to this question, they were then asked if they have ever participated in fair housing activities or training. Thirty-two answered that they had participating in such, while 18 had not. Five said they didn't know if they had participating in these kinds of activities or training.

For the County, pertinent factors include communication with the public from a given agency or organization, which can be hindered by failing to disseminate necessary details for public engagement on its webpage or via social media engagement. This factor may impact all the housing issues listed above, as it directly has an effect on who is present at community meetings and which voices help shape policy through direct interaction with the local politicians and policy makers. Another factor to consider is inadequate resource allocation with a given organization or agency. This may result in not enough bodies present to answer a phone or reply to emails, thus inhibiting that agency's efficiency and expedition at responding to needs within its jurisdiction. This factor may directly impact disproportionate housing needs, as it may render said agency impotent to advocate for those residents laden with exceptional or unreasonable housing burdens.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update D2
Exhibit 1 168

D.2.2 Integration and Segregation
Race and Ethnicity
Ethnic and racial composition of a County is useful in analyzing housing demand and any related fair housing concerns, as it tends to demonstrate a relationship with other characteristics such as household size, locational preferences, and mobility. area. It is the most commonly used and accepted method of measuring segregation.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
D3
Exhibit 1 169

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According to the 2014-2018 ACS, approximately 96 percent of Bell Gardens' population belong to a racial or ethnic minority group and 43 percent being foreign -born. HUD defines Racially or Ethnically Concentrated Areas of Poverty (R/ECAPs) as census tracts with a non-White population over 50 percent and with 40 percent or three times the overall poverty rate. Currently, there are no R/ECAPs located in the City. Figure D-2shows racial/ethnic concentrated block groups from in 2010 and Figure -3 shows them in 2018. Citywide, all block groups in Bell Gardens have seen an increase in racial/ethnic minority populations since 2010. It can also be seen that in the surrounding communities the increase in racial/ethnic minority populations has also been apparent since 2010.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update D4
Exhibit 1 170

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City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update

9. Exhibit 1 172

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
D7
Exhibit 1 173

Persons with Disabilities
"' """' ,�!'n the County, about 10 percent of the population has a disability. The 2014-2018 ACS identifies six different disability categories: 1) hearing difficulty, 2) vision difficulty, 3) cognitive difficulty, 4) ambulatory difficulty, 5) self -care difficulty, and 6) independent living difficulty. Persons with disabilities often require public assistance, including housing assistance. According to the 2014-2018 ACS, a total of 3,033 persons (7.2 percent of the population) in Bell Gardens have a disability which is comparable to the County as a whole.

According to the 2018 Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice for the CDC and HACoLA (AI), an estimated 9.2 percent of persons in the Urban County had a disability.

The ability for persons with disabilities to access infrastructure, public facilities, and housing units is limited by barriers to mobility, such as physical accommodations for access. Some 37.6 percent of survey respondents with a disability indicated that it was difficult or somewhat difficult getting about their neighborhood or housing complex. In addition, an estimated 10.5 percent of respondents in Los Angeles County indicated that there are problems with their home that create physical/accessibility issues for their households.

The 2015 County Health survey in the Al found that 22.6 percent of the population had a disability and 41.9 percent of those over 65 had a disability. Independence is reliant on access to a variety of components, including accessibility and services. Barriers to mobility and access to accessible housing are two primary hurdles to increasing independence. Limited independence for the elderly or families with disabilities is a primary barrier for access to housing options and opportunity. Homelessness continues to be a major issue in Los Angeles County and increased by 23 percent between 2016 and 2017 to 57,794 county -wide. In 2016, more than 15 percent of the homeless population had a physical disability, and more than 3 percent had a developmental disability.

Within Bell Gardens, there is no concentration of persons with disabilities as all tracts within the City have a population with a disability ranging from 10 to 20 percent or less than 10 percent (Figure D-). The ACS tallied the number of disabilities by type for residents with one or more disabilities. Among the disabilities tallied, 25 percent were hearing difficulties, 17 percent were vision difficulties, 30 percent were cognitive difficulties, 50 percent were ambulatory difficulties, 29 percent were self -care difficulties, and 43 percent were independent living difficulties.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update D8
Exhibit 1 174

Bell Gardens' RHNA units are not disproportionately concentrated in areas with a concentration of persons with disabilities. All of Bell Gardens' RHNA sites are located in census tracts with less than 10 percent of the population with disabilities ( i. r -).

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
a
Exhibit 1 175

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2021-2029 Housing Element Update D1
Exhibit 1 177

Familial Status
Figure D-7: Regional Households with Children by Household Type (2019) City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update D2
Exhibit 1 178

Local Trend. According to the HCD AB686/AFFH data tool maps (Figure D-10), there are no areas with a concentration of households with adults living alone in the City. Adults living with their spouse are concentrated in northern tracts of the City, where the population of adults living with their spouse is 40 to 60 percent or 60 to 80 percent, compared to the 20 to 40 percent in other tracts to the south (Figure Q-11).

According to the 2014-2018 ACS, an estimated 45 percent of the City's households were headed by single parents, the large majority of which were headed by females (76 percent). Furthermore, approximately 35 percent of the total households in Bell Gardens (3,398 households) were female -headed households with children. The average single - parent household spends 12-25 percent of annual income for childcare, leaving less income available to pay for housing. According to the 2014-2018 ACS, 43.8 percent of female -headed single -parent households in Bell Gardens had incomes below the poverty level.

According to the HCD AFFH map in Figure Q-1, children in married households are most concentrated in the northern tracts of the City. The percent of households with children in these tracts is above 60 percent (probably due to the housing types available and the correlation between the location of householders living with a spouse), higher than the other tracts where the percentage ranges from 20 to under 60 percent. The majority of the City's RHNA units are located in census tracts with 40 to 60 or 60 to 80 percent of children in married -couple households (Table -3).

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Female -headed households with children require special consideration and assistance because of their greater need for affordable housing and accessible day care, health care, and other supportive services. In Bell Gardens, female headed households with children are in census tracts with concentrations of 20 to 40 percent (Figure Q-13). According to the 2014-2018 ACS, 3,398 households are female -headed households with no husband present. According to the 2014-2018 ACS, the percentage of families and people whose income in the past 12 months is below the poverty level for all families is six percent, whereas 43.8 percent of female -headed households were below the poverty level. By City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update D3
Exhibit 1 179

comparison, only three percent of married -couple families were below the poverty level.

The City's RHNA sites are located in the census tracts with less than 20 or 20 to 40 percent of children in female -headed households (Table D-4). These are the only percentages that tracts fall within the City.

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2021-2029 Housing Element Update
Exhibit 1 180
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City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
Exhibit 1
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2021-2029 Housing Element Update
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2021-2029 Housing Element Update
Exhibit 1
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2021-2029 Housing Element Update D5
Exhibit 1 186

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2021-2029 Housing Element Update
Exhibit 1 187

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2021-2029 Housing Element Update
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D.2.3 Racially and Ethnically Concentrated Areas
Racially/Ethnically Concentrated Areas of Poverty
In an effort to identify racially/ethnically-concentrated areas of poverty (RECAPs), HUD has identified census tracts with a majority non-White population (greater than 50 percent) and has a poverty rate that exceeds 40 percent or is three times the average tract poverty rate for the metro/micro area, whichever threshold is lower. In Los Angeles County, there are RECAPs scattered around major highways and in the Downtown area (Figure D-17).

The larger RECAP clusters can be seen in Downtown Los Angeles. There are no RECAPs in Bell Gardens.

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City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update D1
Exhibit 1 190

Figure D-17: Regional Racially Concentrated Areas of Poverty (R/ECAPs) 4�
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City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update D2
Exhibit 1 191

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City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update D3
Exhibit 1 192

Racially Concentrated Areas of Affluence
While racially concentrated areas of poverty and segregation (RECAPs) have long been the focus of fair housing policies, racially concentrated areas of affluence (RCAAs) must also be analyzed to ensure housing is integrated, a key to fair housing choice. According to a policy paper published by HUD, RCAA is defined as affluent, White communities.$ According to HUD's policy paper, Whites are the most racially segregated group in the United States and in the same way neighborhood disadvantage is associated with concentrated poverty and high concentrations of people of color, conversely, distinct advantages are associated with residence in affluent, White communities." RCAAs have not been studied extensively nor has a standard definition been published by HCD or HUD, this fair housing assessment uses the percent White Alone population and median household income as proxies to identify potential areas of affluence. As Figure -1 n Figure - show, census tracts with a large White population (over 50 percent) and highest median income are located outside of the Bell Gardens and outside of Downtown Los Angeles. The central Los Angeles, San Gabriel Valley, and Gateway cities have Hispanic, African American, or Asian majority populations. The central Los Angeles areas are composed of mostly block groups with median incomes below the 2020 State median of $87,100. Block groups with median incomes exceeding $125,000 are more concentrated in coastal communities and the areas around Santa Monica and Beverly Hills. In Bell Gardens there are no block groups with racial/ethnic minority populations smaller than 60 percent and most of the block groups have median incomes lower than the State median of $87,100. There are no areas in Bell Gardens that are considered RCAAs.
8 Goetz, Edward G., Damiano, A., & Williams, R. A. (2019) Racially Concentrated Areas of Affluence: A Preliminary Investigation.' Published by the Office of Policy Development and Research (PD&R) of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in Cityscape: A Journal of Policy Development and Research (21,1, 99-123).

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update D4
Exhibit 1 193

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City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
0-1
Exhibit 1 194

D.2.4 Access to Opportunities
HUD developed an index for assessing fair housing by informing communities about disparities in access to opportunity based on race/ethnicity and poverty status. Table D- 10shows index scores for the following opportunity indicator indices (values range from 0 to 100)..
• Low Poverty Index: The higher the score, the less exposure to poverty in a neighborhood. • School Proficiency Index: The higher the score, the higher the school system quality is in a neighborhood.
• Labor Market Engagement Index: The higher the score, the higher the labor force participation and human capital in a neighborhood.
• Transit Trips Index: The higher the trips transit index, the more likely residents in that neighborhood utilize public transit.
• Low Transportation Cost Index: The higher the index, the lower the cost of transportation in that neighborhood.
• Jobs Proximity Index: The higher the index value, the better access to employment opportunities for residents in a neighborhood.
• Environmental Health Index: The higher the value, the better environmental quality of a neighborhood.

To assist in this analysis, the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) and the California Tax Credit Allocation Committee (TCAC) convened in the California Fair Housing Task Force (Task Force) to "provide research, evidence -based policy recommendations, and other strategic recommendations to HCD and other related state agencies/departments to further the fair housing goals (as defined by HCD)." The Task force has created Opportunity Maps to identify resources levels across the state "to accompany new policies aimed at increasing access to high opportunity areas for families with children in housing financed with 9% Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTCs)".

These opportunity maps are made from composite scores of three different domains made up of a set of indicators. Higher composite scores mean higher resources. Table D-9 shows the full list of indicators that go into the calculation of the index scores.

Table®: Domains and List of Indicators for Opportunity Maps Domain
Indicator
Economic
Poverty
Adult education
Employment
Job proximity
Median home value
Environmental
CalEnviroScreen 4.0 pollution Indicators and values
Education
Math proficiency
Reading proficiency
High School graduation rates
Student poverty rates
Source: California Fair Housing Task Force, Methodology for the 2020 TCAC/HCD Opportunity Maps, December 2020.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update D6
Exhibit 1 195

Regional Trend. HUD Opportunity Indicator scores for Los Angeles County are shown in Table D-1 0. The White population, including the population below the federal poverty line, received the highest scores in low poverty, school proficiency, labor market participation, jobs proximity, and environmental health. Hispanic communities scored the lowest in low poverty and labor market participation and Black communities scored the lowest in school proficiency, jobs proximity, and environmental health. Black residents were most likely to use public transit and have the lowest transportation costs.

Table-1 : Los Angeles County HUD Opportunity Indicators by Race/Ethnicity Low
School
Labor
Transit
Low Transp.

Jobs
�Proximity
Env. Health
Poverty
Prof.

Market
Cost
Total Population
White, non-

62.59 65.09

65.41 82.63

74.09 55.80

18.99 Hispanic
Black, non-

34.95 32.37

34.00 87.70

79.18 40.13

11.66 Hispanic
Hispanic

33.91 38.38

33.18 87.19

77.74 41.53

11.91 Asian or Pacific
Islander, non-

53.57 59.34

55.94 86.52

76.45 51.82

12.16 Hispanic
Native American,

45.04 46.90

44.50 83.17

75.65 44.24

16.74 non -Hispanic
Population below federal poverty
line
White, non-

50.68 58.06

57.49 86.42

79.48 57.52

16.66 Hispanic
Black, non-

23.45 27.16

25.52 88.65

81.18 36.59

11.62 Hispanic
Hispanic

23.66 32.87

27.66 89.45

81.02 42.84

10.30 Asian or Pacific
Islander, non-

42.97 54.52

50.06 89.62

81.49 54.19

9.84 Hispanic
Native American,

29.85 35.12

32.02 85.23

78.70 46.35

16.01 non -Hispanic
Source: HUD AFFH Database - Opportunity
Indicators, 2020
The following opportunity map scores are for the census tracts that make up Bell Gardens (Table -11). One census tract is of moderate resource, five are designated as low City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update D7
Exhibit 1 196

resource and three are of high segregation
Census tract are presented in Figure Q-22.
scores for the City are further detailed below.
resource levels within City limits.
and poverty. Opportunity map scores by
Economic, environmental, and education
The Citv's RHNA is dispersed between all
Table-11: Opportunity Map ScoresTract
Census
Tract
Economic
Domain Score
Environmental
Domain Score
Education
Domain Score
Composite
Index Score
Final Category
6037534101

0.25 0.10

0.13 0.00
High Segregation &
Poverty
6037534201

0.29 0.09

0.18 0.00
High Segregation &
Poverty
6037534202

0.05 0.35

0.17 0.00
High Segregation &
Poverty
6037534001

0.29 0.30

0.21 -0.41
Low Resource
6037533902

0.20 0.27

0.07 -0.59
Low Resource
6037533901

0.45 0.17

0.10 -0.48
Low Resource
6037534203

0.25 0.38

0.26 -0.37
Low Resource
6037534102

0.15 0.25

0.16 -0.54
Low Resource
6037534002

0.33 1 0.18
1 0.48
1 -0.25
1 Moderate Resource
Source: California Fair Housing Task Force, TCAC/HCD Opportunity Maps, 2021 Statewide Summary Table.

December 2020.

Table-1 : RHNA
Units b TCAC Opportunit Areas
Opportunity Area
Lower
Moderate
Above
Moderate
Total Units
High Segregation & Poverty

0.0%

63.2%

85.1 %

48.8%
Low Resource

34.4%

36.8%

14.9%

25.7%
Moderate Resource

65.6%

0.0%

25.5%
Grand Total
180
68 215
463
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
Exhibit 1 197

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City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
Exhibit 1
199
D1

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the seven schools in Bell Gardens are Title 1 schools. These schools coordinate and integrate resources and services from federal, state, and local sources.

To be considered for Title 1 school funds, at least 40 percent of the students must be considered low-income. Kidsdata.org, a program of the Lucile Packard Foundation for Children's Health, estimated that 57 percent of children aged 0-17 in the City of Bell Gardens were living in low-income working families between 2012 and 2016.9 Kidsdata.org also reported that in 2019, 79 percent of students are considered high -need (i.e. those who are eligible for free or reduced price school meals, are English Learners, or are foster youth —as reported in the Unduplicated Pupil Count) compared to 71 percent of students in Los Angeles County.

As described above, the Fair Housing Task Force determines education scores based on math and reading proficiency, high school graduation rates, and student poverty rates.

Figure -3 shows the education scores of each census tract in the City. Education scores in the City are mostly less than positive. All high segregation and poverty tracts identified in the Citv received in scores in the lowest auartile. /
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(R) TCAC OPPcrlunity Areas (2021) - Education 8 orm -Tract .� 050 - 0.75 0 as or r a k,, 0 25 (Less P—t— Ed ... ta MEN 10 IS (Nl re P.sih— EdwceK OW-r—) 9 Definition of "low income working family": children ages 0-17 living in families with incomes below 200 percent of their federal poverty threshold and with at least one resident parent who worked at least 50 weeks in the 12 months prior to the survey.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update D2
Exhibit 1 200

As described previously, the Fair Housing Task Force calculates economic scores based on poverty, adult education, employment, job proximity, and median home values.

According to the 2021 Task Force maps presented in Figure D-24, the census tracts in the City are of low to moderate economic scores ranging from 5 to 45. The most recent unemployment rates published by the California Employment and Development Department (March 2021) show that Bell Gardens' unemployment rate is higher than the County as a whole (13 percent and 11.3 percent, respectively). The higher unemployment rates are due to the current Covid-19 pandemic. Prior to the pandemic, the unemployment rates for Los Angeles County were approximately 5%. At the height of the pandemic, unemployment rates reached as high as 18% county -wide. It is anticipated that the unemployment rate will continue to decrease as the economy continues to reopen.

B12412021. 6:03:40 PM 1;18.056
0 City(Tawe B—dames I0.25-050 0 1).17 0.11
(R)TCACOpp.m,,ItyA,,—(202'I)-F.--icScore-Tracy ]0.50-0.75 0 4.3 0.6 12k l��l 0.25 (Less Posti- Ecorvomis Outcome) WO > 9.75 (Mare Positive Eoorromic outcome) _ Transportation
All Transit is a data source that explores metrics that reveal the social and economic impact of transit, specifically looking at connectivity, access to jobs, and frequency of service. According to the data provided by All Transit, Bell Gardens' All Transit Performance score of 6.1 was among the highest for the County, illustrating a moderate combination of trips per week and number of jobs accessible that enable a moderate number of people to take transit to work. The County All Transit score (6.8) was higher than the City's. Bell Gardens has a slightly lower proportion of commuters that use transit City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update D3
Exhibit 1 201

(6.17 percent) than the County (6.66 percent). Figure D-25 shows the All Transit Performance Scores for Bell Gardens and the surrounding County.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
D4
Exhibit 1 202

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HUD's Job Proximity Index, described previously, can be used to show transportation need geographically. Block groups with lower jobs proximity indices are located further from employment opportunities and have a higher need for transportation. As shown in Figure -6, block groups in the City have scores between 40 to more than 80 showing that there is low to above moderate proximity to jobs for residents. The City does not have severe isolation when it comes to job proximity. The north part of the City has some of the highest scores when it comes to job proximity in the County. 812412021, 6:04.64 PM
7-1 CdtylT— B—d.ries
(A) Jobs Proximity Index (HUD. 2014.2017)
«0 (Furthest Proximity)
20-40
Environmental
1 46 - 60
51ock4oup 86-89
III > 60 (Closest Proximity}
1 18,056
03 06 1�2 kin
Environmental health scores are determined by the Fair Housing Task Force based on CalEnviroScreen 4.0 pollution indicators and values. Eigure D-27 shows that all but one census tract in the City have very high environment scores. All of the City's RHNA are located in high environmental scores in the range of 83 to 99 as these are the lowest and highest range of scores in the City (Table -13). The majority of the City's lower income RHNA units are in the tracts with the lowest score in the City.

According to the American Lung Association's State of the Air report, Los Angeles County received an Ozone score of "F", which means that the County experienced numerous days of unhealthy air pollution as compared to other counties and cities in the study.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update D6
Exhibit 1 204

Table D-13: RHNA Unit Distribution by CalEnviroScreen 4.0 Scores % LMI HH
Lower
Moderate
Above
Moderate
Total Units
1 -10% (Lowest
Score

0.0%

0.0%
11 - 20%

0.0%

0.0%
21 - 30%

0.0%

0.0%
31 - 40%

0.0%

0.0%
41 - 50%

0.0%

0.0%
51 - 60%

0.0%

0.0%
61 - 70%

0.0%

0.0%
71 - 80%

0.0%

0.0%
81 - 90%

65.6%

0.0%

25.5%
91 -100%
Score

34.4%
100.0%
100.0%

74.5%
-(Highest
Total Units
180
68 215
463
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
Exhibit 1 205
D7

iity of Bell Gardens 021 - 20219 IH Housing Element Update Enviro,antental Justice Coninitunities & Sites s InventoryCIS C°.a]Enviro'Scree 7 4.,0'
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City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
Exhibit 1 206

D.2.5 Disproportionate Housing Needs
The AFFH Rule Guidebook defines `disproportionate housing needs' as `a condition in which there are significant disparities in the proportion of members of a protected class experiencing a category of housing needs when compared to the proportion of a member of any other relevant groups or the total population experiencing the category of housing need in the applicable geographic area.' 24 C.F.R. § 5.152" The analysis is completed by assessing cost burden, severe cost burden, overcrowding, and substandard housing.

The Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) developed by the Census for HUD provides detailed information on housing needs by income level for different types of households in Bell Gardens. Housing problems considered by CHAS include:
• Housing cost burden, including utilities, exceeding 30 percent of gross income; • Severe housing cost burden, including utilities, exceeding 50 percent of gross income; • Overcrowded conditions (housing units with more than one person per room); and/or • Units with physical defects (lacking complete kitchen or bathroom) Cost Burden
Measuring the portion of a household's gross income that is spent for housing is an indicator of the dynamics of demand and supply. This measurement is often expressed in terms of "over payers": households paying an excessive amount of their income for housing, therefore decreasing the amount of disposable income available for other needs.

This indicator is an important measurement of local housing market conditions as it reflects the affordability of housing in the community. Federal and state agencies use overpayment indicators to determine the extent and level of funding and support that should be allocated to a community. State and federal programs typically define over - payers as those lower income households paying over 30 percent of household income for housing costs. A household is considered experiencing a severe cost burden if it spends more than 50 percent of its gross income on housing.

Regional Trend. As shown in Figure D-28, cost burdened renters tend to be less concentrated in jurisdictions along the perimeter of Los Angeles County compared to the central County areas. However, tracts with large populations of overpaying renters are located throughout the County. Similarly, tracts with higher concentrations of overpaying owners are distributed throughout the County, but are most concentrated in the central County regions around the Cit of Los An eles and South Gate and in the Westside and San Gabriel Vallev cities
Trend.Local Table D-14provides overpayment and severe overpayment details by income and household type for Bell Gardens between 2013 and 2017. Renter -occupied households are more likely to experience cost burden (76 percent compared to 54 percent of owner -occupied households). In addition, 28 percent of total households in the City are experiencing a severe housing cost burden (spending more than 50 percent of their income on housing). Approximately 30 percent of the City's total households fall within the extremely low income category. Overall, 91 percent of the total households within this City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update D9
Exhibit 1 207

category have experienced a problem with cost bur
more likely to experience any housing problem
households (54 percent). Overall, 58 percent o
housing cost burden greater than 30 percent while
den. Renter -occupied households are
(76 percent) than owner -occupied
f the total households experience a
28 percent exaerience the same issue
. Figure -3 shows the census tracts in the City and the percent of households in renter - occupied housing units that have a cost burden. A majority of the census tracts in the city have 40 to 80 percent of the renter households overpaying for their housing unit.. Figure -31 shows the percent of owner households that have a mortgage or mortgages with monthly owner costs that are 30 percent or more of household income. All but one census tract in the City have 20 to 40 or 40 to 60 percent of households that pay more than 30 percent of their household income to their monthly housing costs.

Table-1 : Cost Burden in Bell Gardens
Income Category
g
Total Owners
Total Renters
Total Households
HHs
%
%
%
Extremely Low Income
< 30% AMI
350
100%
2,605
100%
2,955
100%
% with any housing problems
270
77%
2,435
93%
2,705
91 %
% Cost burden than 30%
265
75%
2,415
92%
2,680
90%
%Cost burden greater than 50%
190
54%
1,960
75%
2,150
72%
Very Low Household Income
(30-50% AMI)
389
100%
2,340
100%
2,729
100%
%with any housing problems
245
62%
2,105
89%
2,350
86%
% Cost burden than 30%
203
52%
1,845
78%
2,048
75%
% Cost burden greater than 50%
135
34%
390
16%
525
19%
Low Household Income
(50-80% AMI)
554
100%
1,650
100%
2204
'
100%
%with any housing problems
304
54%
895
54%
1,199
54%
% Cost burden than 30%
266
48%
435
26%
701
31 %
% Cost burden greater than 50%
104
18%
15 0.0%
119
5%
Total Households
2,142
100%
7,515
100%
9,657
100%
% with any housing problems
1,178
54%
5,714
76%
6,892
71 %
% Cost burden than 30%
892
41 %
4,715
62%
5,607
58%
% Cost burden greater than 50%
429
20%
2,365
31 %
2,794
28%
Source: HUD CHAS data (based on 2013-2017 ACa 2020.

The City's RHNA is all located in census tracts with 60 to 80 percent of renter households being cost burdened (Figure -3 ).

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
D10
Exhibit 1 208

Table D-15: RHNA Units by Cost Burdened Households
- Owner
% Cost Burdened
HHs
Lower
Moderate
Above
Moderate
Total Units
80%

0.0%

0.0%
Total Units
180
68 215
463
The City's RHNA is mostly located in census tracts with 20 to 40 percent of owner households being cost burdened (Table -1). This is also where a majority of the low income units are located (Figure D-1).

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
D11
Exhibit 1 209

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- 2029 Housing Ell nnent Update
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City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
Exhibit 1
212
D14

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fay,Y,
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City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
D15
Exhibit 1 213

<,K
Overcrowding is defined as housing units with more than one person per room (including dinin and livin�q rooms but excludin bathrooms and kitchen) ; ,, Trend.Local Table D-16 identifies all overcrowded households in Bell Gardens by tenure. According to the 2014-2018 ACS, there is an extremely high level of overcrowding in the City with 29 percent of occupied housing units with more than one person per room. Renter -occupied units in the City were much more likely to be overcrowded. About 22 percent of the City's owner -occupied units were overcrowded compared to 31 percent of renter -occupied units. In 2018, the number of persons per household in the City of Bell Gardens was approximately 4.33.

Table®1 : Overcrowded Housing Units
Occupants per room
Owner Households
Renter Households
Total Households
Number
% of
Owners
Number
% of
Renters
Number
% of
Total

0.5 or less
503
24%
1,285
17%
1,788
18%

0.51 to 1.00
1,131
54%
4,021
52%
5,152
52%
Not Crowded
1,634
78%
5,306
69%
6,940
71%

1.01 to 1.50
376
18%
1,753
23%
2,129
22%

1.51 to 2.00
27 1 %
532
7%
559
6%

2.01 or more
19 1 %
135
2%
154
2%
Overcrowded
463
22%
2,420
31 %
2,883
29%
Sources: 2014-2018 ACS.

According to Figure D-33, most of the City's census tracts have overcrowded households.

The City's RHNA is mainly located in census tracts with over 20 percent of households being overcrowded, which is the majority of the census tracts in the City (Table -17).

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update D16
Exhibit 1 214

Table D-17: RHNA Units
by Overcrowded Households
% Overcrowded HHs
Lower
Moderate
Above
Moderate
Total Units
20%
100.0%

66.2%

88.4%

89.6%
Total Units
180
68 215
463
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
Exhibit 1 215
D17

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City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
Income Categoiy
= itea
Table, B Non -Rezone Sites
DI I SICO 3,000
Income Category
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D19
Exhibit 1 217

Substandard Conditions
The Community Development Department (CDD) considers housing units in compliance with the City's building codes to be standard units. Any housing unit that does not meet these requirements is considered substandard. Substandard units are considered suitable for rehabilitation if they are structurally sound and can be rehabilitated at a cost not to exceed 50 percent of the projected market value of the housing after rehabilitation. Common housing code violations make a unit unsafe and/or unsanitary, including problems with wiring, roofs and exterior, heating and air conditioning systems, plumbing, and windows.

Often, a structure's age correlates to its need for rehabilitation. Housing is subject to gradual deterioration over time. If a property is not regularly maintained, housing can deteriorate and discourage reinvestment, reduce neighboring property values, and impact the quality of life. As a general rule in the housing industry, structures older than 30 years begin to show signs of deterioration and require reinvestment to maintain quality.

According to the 2014-2018 ACS, 80 percent of the units in the City were built before 1979. Housing built before 1979 could potentially have lead -based paint in addition to the rehabilitation needs of a typical unit more than 40 years of age. In the County, 86 percent of the housing stock was built prior to 1990, including 60.5 percent built prior to 1970 According to the City's Building and Safety Division, there were 343 housing rehabilitation cases opened from 2013-2020 related to housing stock conditions. As of November 2020, the City's Building Official estimates that 20 percent of homes are in need of substantial rehabilitation. Homeowners must continue to invest in updating and expanding their homes in order to maintain and preserve the City's older housing stock.

Displacement Risk
HCD defines sensitive communities as "communities [that] currently have populations vulnerable to displacement in the event of increased development or drastic shifts in housing cost." The following characteristics define a vulnerable community:

The share of very low income residents is above 20 percent; and The tract meets two of the following criteria:
o Share of renters is above 40 percent,
o Share of people of color is above 50 percent,
o Share of very low-income households (50 percent AM I or below) that are severely rent burdened households is above the county median,
o They or areas in close proximity have been experiencing displacement pressures (percent change in rent above County median for rent increases), or o Difference between tract median rent and median rent for surrounding tracts above median for all tracts in county (rent gap).

Local Trend. Figure -3 identifies all census tracts in the City are considered to be vulnerable to urban displacement. These communities are areas that have a higher City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update D20
Exhibit 1 218

concentration of non-White populations (Figure D-4), low- and moderate -income persons (Figure D-16) and higher housing overpayment by renters (Figure D-30).

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City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
D21
Exhibit 1 219

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Homelessness
Trend.Regional The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) estimates there were 66,436 persons experiencing homelessness in the Los Angeles County, based on the 2020 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Point -in -Time (PIT) Count. Figure D-3 shows the Los Angeles County homeless populations from 2015 to 2020. Approximately 72 percent of the homeless population is unsheltered and 28 percent is sheltered. The homeless population has increased by nearly 50 percent since 2015, and 12.7 percent since 2019. According to Department of Finance (DOF) estimates, the entire Los Angeles County population grew by only 0.5 percent between 2015 and 2020.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
D22
Exhibit 1 220

Source: Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), 2015-2020 LA County/LA Continuum of Care (CoC) Homeless Counts.

Table-1 shows the homeless populations in 2019 and 2020 by population type, gender, and health/disability. Approximately 19 percent of the homeless population belongs to a family with one or more child, 38.4 percent are chronically homeless, and

22.3 percent have a serious mental illness. Since 2019, the population of homeless family members (+45.7 percent), persons experiencing chronic homelessness (+54.2 percent), persons fleeing domestic violence (+40 percent), non-binary/gender non -conforming persons (+325.5 percent), and persons with a substance use disorder (+104 percent) have increased the most drastically. The population of transgender persons and persons with HIV/AIDS experiencing homelessness have decreased by 81.4 percent and 4.7 percent, respectively.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
D23
Exhibit 1 221

Table D-18: Los Angeles County Homeless Population Demographics (2019-2020) 2019
2020
Percent
Change
Persons
Percent
Persons
Percent
Total
58,936
100.0%
66,436
100.0%

12.7%
Individuals
50,071

85.0%
53,619

80.7%

7.1%
Transitional Aged Youth (18-24)
3,635

6.2%
4,278

6.4%

17.7%
Unaccompanied Minors (under 18)
66 0.1%
74 0.1%

12.1%
Family Members*
8,799

14.9%
12,817

19.3%

45.7%
Veterans
3,878

6.6%
3,902

5.9%

0.6%
People Experiencing Chronic
Homelessness
16,528

28.0%
25,490

38.4%

54.2%
Fleeing Domestic/Intimate Partner
Violence
3,111

5.3%
4,356

6.6%

40.0%
Gender
Male
39,348

66.8%
44,259

66.6%

12.5%
Female
18,331

31.1%
21,129

31.8%

15.3%
Non-Binary/Gender Non -Conforming
200

0.3%
851

1.3%
325.5%
Transgender
1,057

1.8%
197

0.3%
-81.4%
Health and Disability**
Substance Use Disorder
7,836

13.3%
15,983

24.1%
104.0%

HIV/AIDS
1,306

2.2%
1,245

1.9%
-4.7%
Serious Mental Illness
13,670

23.2%
14,790

22.3%

8.2%
Percent of Total County
Population

0.6%
--

0.7%
*Members of families with at least one child under 18.
** Indicators are not mutually exclusive.

Source: Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority LAHSA , 2019-2020 LA County/LA Continuum of Care CoC Homeless Counts.

The following data refers to the Los Angeles Continuum of Care (CoC) region, covering all Los Angeles County jurisdictions except for the cities of Long Beach, Pasadena, and Glendale. Special needs groups are considered elderly or disabled (including developmental disabilities), female -headed households, large families, farmworkers, and people experiencing homelessness.

Nearly 20 percent of the homeless population are members of families with one or more child under the age of 18, 9.9 percent are elderly persons aged 62 and older, 17 percent have a physical disability, and 8.3 percent have a developmental disability. Only 32 percent of homeless persons with a developmental disability, 17.3 percent with a physical disability, and 21.5 percent of homeless seniors are sheltered. However, most families (76.3 percent) are sheltered (Table -1 ).

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update D24
Exhibit 1 222

Table D-19: Homeless Populations and Special Needs Groups Special Needs Group
Sheltered
Unsheltered
Total
Developmental Disability

32.1%

67.9%
5,292
Physical Disability

17.3%

82.7%
10,833
Family Members

76.3%

23.7%
12,416
62+

21.5%

78.5%
6,290
Source: LAHSA, 2020 LA CoC Homeless Counts; 2015-2019 ACS (5-Year Estimates Trend.Local In Bell Gardens there are no sheltered persons experiencing homelessness. The homeless population summary includes homeless populations by census tract, homeless population trend, and dwelling type of unsheltered persons (Figure D-37). Census tract 5341.02 has the largest homeless population based on the 2020 PIT count with 21 persons.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
D25
Exhibit 1 223

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D.2.6 Other Relevant Factors
Lending Practices
A key aspect of fair housing choice is equal access to credit for the purchase or improvement of a home, particularly in light of the recent lending/credit crisis. In the past, credit market distortions and other activities such as "redlining" were prevalent and prevented some groups from having equal access to credit. The Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) in 1977 and the subsequent Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) were designed to improve access to credit for all members of the community and hold the lender industry responsible for community lending. Under HMDA, lenders are required to disclose information on the disposition of home loan applications and on the race or national origin, gender, and annual income of loan applicants.

Table- summarizes home purchase and improvement loan applications in Bell Gardens for 2017. Under the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HDMA), lending institutions are required to disclose information on the disposition of loan applications along with the income, gender, and race of loan applicants. Overall, 342 households applied for mortgage loans for homes in Bell Gardens in 2017. Of the applications for conventional purchase loans, 64.7 percent were approved, and 17.6 percent were denied. An additional 11.8 percent were withdrawn or closed for incompleteness. The approval rate for government -backed home purchase loans was slightly higher at 65.5 percent. Less than half (47.7 percent) of refinance applications were approved. The denial rate was greatest for home improvement loans (27.3 percent). Overall, these rates are fairly consistent with countywide rates.

Table: Home Purchase and Improvement Loan Applications, 2017 Loan Type
Total Applications
Approved
Denied
Other
Conventional Purchase
55 65.45%

23.63%

9.09%
Government -Backed Purchase
17 64.70%

17.64%

11.76%
Home Improvement
237

47.67%

24.05%

25.73%
Refinance
33 54.54%

27.27%

12.12%
Total
342

52.04%

23.97%

21.05%
Environmental Justice Communities
Disadvantaged communities in California are specifically targeted for investment of proceeds from the State's cap -and -trade program. Known as California Climate Investments (CCI), these funds are aimed at improving public health, quality of life and economic opportunity in California's most burdened communities at the same time they're reducing pollution that causes climate change.

Any jurisdiction can choose to include policies focused on environmental justice (EJ) in their General Plan, but an EJ Element is required under state law for any city or county that includes disadvantaged communities. For the purposes of environmental justice, a disadvantaged community is defined as, "An area identified by the California Environmental Protection Agency (CaIEPA) pursuant to Section 39711 of the Health and City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update D27
Exhibit 1 225

Safety Code or an area that is a low-income area that is disproportionately affected by environmental pollution and other hazards that can lead to negative health effects, exposure, or environmental degradation."
Senate Bill 535 defines disadvantaged communities as the top 25 percent scoring areas from CalEnviroScreen. Assembly Bill 1550 defines low-income communities using census data, statewide median income data, and state Department of Housing and Community Development income limits. As shown below (Figure D-3 ), all census tracts meet one or both of the definitions.

Based on the pollution data for Bell Gardens, the entire city is disproportionately affected by environmental pollution.

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D.2.7 Summary of Fair Housing Issues
According to the 2018 Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice, the County's fair housing service provider receives a majority of its fair housing discrimination complaints on the basis of disability. Throughout the County, the state, and nationally, disability - related complaints are the leading basis of discrimination cited by residents, accounting for approximately two-thirds of all complaints, demonstrating a lack of understanding and sensitivity of the fair housing rights of persons with disabilities. Persons with disabilities may have difficulties requesting reasonable modifications or accommodations or knowing their rights when it comes to fair housing. Barriers to mobility limits access to opportunities, creating a disproportionate access and contributing to fair housing issues.

As such, this factor has been rated as a high priority.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update D28
Exhibit 1 226

While 2015 ACS data states that 9.2 percent of persons in the Urban County had a disability, according to the County's 2015 Health Survey, 22.6 percent had a disability countywide. Barriers to mobility are compounded with limited access to affordable housing to create a lack of accessible housing options. Service providers echo this sentiment, highlighting the need for additional accessible units for varying households.

The 2017-2018 Resident Survey found that, countywide, the rated need for housing for persons with disabilities was 3.28 out of 4. Lack of sufficient accessible housing in a range of unit sizes is rated as a high priority due to its impact on persons with disability to access fair housing options. This factor is a core function of both the CDC and HACoLA to address fair housing issues in the County.

According to the 2017 HUD AFFH data, approximately 74 percent of family households with five or more members experience housing problems such as cost burdens or overcrowding. The high percentage of families that need appropriately sized housing makes this contributing factor a high priority.

The location of accessible and affordable housing units in the Urban County may indicate that land use and planning decisions are restricting the housing options for eligible households. Land use and planning decisions restricting fair housing choice for persons with disabilities and affordable housing in general plays an immediate impact on fair housing issues by limiting housing choices, diminishing access to opportunity, and further exacerbates segregations among minorities and for persons with disabilities. For these reasons, this factor has been places as a high priority.

Public input brought to light the limitation of current outreach practices that do not provide sufficient reach for eligible households to access information regarding affordable housing opportunities in the Urban County. Limited access to information on affordable housing directly impacts access to housing options. Disparities in access to housing options relates directly to fair housing issues and is placed as a high priority.

The Urban County has seen moderate to high levels of segregation since the 1990s. Most of these levels have remained high into 2018, with Black/White segregation and Hispanic/White segregation remaining virtually unchanged since 2000. The rate of segregation is a direct limiting factor in access to fair housing opportunities. As the rate of segregation in the Urban County remain high, the priority of this contributing factor remains high as well.

As seen in the Disparities in Access to Opportunity section of this document, R/ECAPs have a markedly lower level of access to education, employment, and healthy neighborhoods. A lack of affordable housing options in higher opportunity areas, with access to transportation, jobs, and education, limit access to these areas for low income and racial and ethnic minority households. Lack of opportunities for residents to obtain housing in higher opportunity areas directly contributes to fair housing issues of dipartites in access to opportunity. This contributing factor has been rated as a priority due to the level of disparate impact on fair housing choice for minority and low income households.

City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update D29
Exhibit 1 227

D.3 Identification and Prioritization of Contributing Factors The following are contributing factors that affect fair housing choice in Bell Gardens.

D.3.1 Fair Housing Enforcement and Outreach Capacity
With the high number of fair housing complaints filed on the basis of disability, residents in the City may need additional information on their fair housing rights. Increased fair housing enforcement and education for landlords as well as education and information available for all residents is needed.

Contributing Factors:
■ Lack of a variety of inputs media (e.g., meetings, surveys, interviews) ■ Lack of local private fair housing outreach and enforcement ■ Lack of resources for fair housing agencies and organizations ■ Lack of state or local fair housing laws to support strong enforcement ■ Lack of sources available on the City's website for residents D.3.2 Segregation and Integration
The City of Bell Gardens has seen an increase in the concentration of minority households in all census tracts in the City. These tracts also had a higher concentration of single - female headed households with children and low to moderate resources compared to other census tracts in the City. These tracts were also found to have higher environmental burdens. These households need increased access to affordable housing and improved infrastructure and public facilities.

Contributing Factors:
■ Lack of private investments
■ Location and type of affordable housing
■ Private discrimination
■ Land use and zoning laws
D.3.3 Disproportionate Housing Needs, Including Displacement Risks All census tracts in the City are at risk of displacement as a high portion of their renters experience cost burdens and gross rents continue to increase.

Contributing Factors:
■ The availability of affordable units in a range of sizes ■ Displacement of residents due to economic pressures
■ Lack of private investments in specific neighborhoods D.3.4 Disparities in Access to Opportunity
There are many areas in the City that have disparities in access to opportunities.

Contributing Factors:

Lack of private investments in specific neighborhoods
Lack of public investments in specific neighborhoods, including services or amenities Location and type of affordable housing
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
D30
Exhibit 1 228

■ Private discrimination
D.4 Implementation Actions
Fair Housing Issue
Contributing Factors and Priority
Fair Housing
■
Lack of a variety of inputs media (e.g., meetings, surveys, Enforcement and
interviews)
Outreach Capacity
■
Lack of local private fair housing outreach and enforcement ■
Lack of resources for fair housing agencies and
organizations
■
Lack of state or local fair housing laws to support strong enforcement
■
Lack of sources available on the Cit 's website for resident Segregation and
■
Lack of private investments
Integration
■
Location and type of affordable housing
■
Private discrimination
■
Land use and zoning laws
Disproportionate
■
The availability of affordable units in a range of sizes Housing Needs,
■
Displacement of residents due to economic pressures
Including Displacement
■
Lack of private investments in specific neighborhoods
Risks
Disparities in Access to
■
Lack of private investments in specific neighborhoods
Opportunity
■
Lack of public investments in specific neighborhoods,
including services or amenities
■
Location and type of affordable housing
■
Private discrimination
City of Bell Gardens
2021-2029 Housing Element Update
D31
Exhibit 1 229

2021-2029 Housing Element
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
December 2021
City of Bell Gardens
Community Development Department
7100 Garfield Avenue
Bell Gardens, CA 902
Exhibit 2 230

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Exhibit 2
I. INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................I-1 A. INTRODUCTION AND REGULATORY GUIDANCE................................................................... 1-1 B. LEAD AGENCY....................................................................................................................... 1-1 C. PURPOSE AND DOCUMENT ORGANIZATION....................................................................... 1-1 II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST................................................................................................II-1 A. PROJECT DESCRIPTION........................................................................................................ II-1 B. ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED...................................................... II-12 C. DETERMINATION...............................................................................................................11-12 D. EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS................................................................... II-13

1. Aesthetics.................................................................................................................. 11-14

2. Agriculture and Forestry Resources........................................................................... 11-17

3. Air Quality.................................................................................................................. 11-19

4. Biological Resources.................................................................................................. 11-25

5. Cultural Resources..................................................................................................... 11-28

6. Energy........................................................................................................................11-30

7. Geology and Soils....................................................................................................... 11-32

8. Greenhouse Gas Emissions........................................................................................ 11-36

9. Hazards and Hazardous Materials............................................................................. 11-43

10. Hydrology and Water Quality.................................................................................... 11-46

11. Land Use and Planning.............................................................................................. 11-51

12. Mineral Resources..................................................................................................... 11-53

13. Noise..........................................................................................................................11-54

14. Population and Housing............................................................................................ 11-57

15. Public Services........................................................................................................... 11-59

16. Recreation................................................................................................................. 11-62

17. Transportation...........................................................................................................11-63

18. Tribal Cultural Resources........................................................................................... 11-65

19. Utilities and Service Systems..................................................................................... 11-67

20. Wildfire......................................................................................................................11-69

21. Mandatory Findings of Significance........................................................................... 11-71 Housing Element 2021-2029 City of Bell Gardens
Initial Study/Negative Declaration December 2021
231

TABLE OF CONTENTS

LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1, Regional Location Map.............................................................................................................. II-2 Figure 2, Location Sites For RHNA.......................................................................................................... II-11

LIST OF TABLES
Table 1, Bell GardensHousing Needs For 2021-2029 Housing Element ................................................... II-4 Table 2, Approved and Pipeline Projects.................................................................................................. II-4 Table 3, Projection of ADU Activities........................................................................................................ II-5 Table 4, Credits Toward RHNA.................................................................................................................. II-6 Table 5, Gotham Street Neighborhood — Vacant Sites............................................................................. II-7 Table 6, R-3 and MU Overlay — Nonvacant Sites...................................................................................... II-8 Table 7, Nonvacant Sites Identified for Rezoning................................................................................... II-10 Table 8, Summary fo RHNA Strategies.................................................................................................... II-10 Table 9, South Coast Air Basin Attainment Status.................................................................................. II-20 Table 10, Consistency with CARB 2208 and 2017 Scoping Plan Policies and Measures ......................... II-38 Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
ii
Exhibit 2 232

I. INTRODUCTION
A. INTRODUCTION AND REGULATORY GUIDANCE
An Initial Study (IS) is conducted by a lead agency to determine if a project may have a significant effect on the environment (CEQA Guidelines Section 15063[a]). If there is substantial evidence that a project may have a significant effect on the environment, an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) must be prepared, in accordance with California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15064(a). However, if the lead agency determines the impacts are, or can be reduced to, less than significant, a Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) or Negative Declaration (ND) may be prepared instead of an EIR (CEQA Guidelines Section 15070[b]). Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15070, a MND or ND is appropriate when the project's Initial Study identifies potentially significant effects, but:
a. Revisions to the project plan were made that would avoid or reduce the effects to a point where clearly no significant effects would occur; and
b. There is no substantial evidence that the project, as revised, may have a significant effect on the environment.

This IS prepared by the City of Bell Gardens (including an attached Environmental Checklist form) determined that the proposed project will not have a significant environmental effect, and the preparation of an EIR is not required. No mitigation measures are required; therefore, an ND can be prepared. This IS/ND has been prepared in accordance with Section 15070 of the State California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines.

B. LEAD AGENCY
The lead agency is the public agency with primary responsibility over a proposed project. In accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15051(b)(1), "the lead agency will normally be the agency with general governmental powers." The project would be approved and carried out by the City of Bell Gardens.

Therefore, based on the criteria described above, the City of Bell Gardens, Community Development Department is the lead agency for the proposed project.

C. PURPOSE AND DOCUMENT OGRANIZATION
The City is proposing to implement the Housing Element 2021-2029 Update (project). The purpose of this IS/ND is to evaluate the potential environmental effects and the document is divided into the following sections:

INTRODUCTION
This section provides an introduction and describes the purpose and organization of this document.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
1-1
Exhibit 2 233

I. INTRODUCTION
II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
This section includes the project background and a detailed description of the project. This section describes the environmental setting for each of the environmental subject areas; evaluates a range of impacts classified as "no impact," "less than significant impact," "less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated," or "potentially significant impact" in response to the environmental checklist and provides an environmental determination for the project.

III. REFERENCES
This section identifies resources used in the preparation of the IS/ND.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
1-2
Exhibit 2 234

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
A. PROJECT DESCRIPTION

1. Project Title:

City of Bell Gardens Housing Element 2021-2029

2. Lead Agency Name and Address:

City of Bell Gardens
Community Development Department
7100 Garfield Avenue
Bell Gardens, CA 90201

3. Lead Agency Contact Person and Phone Number:

Carmen Morales, City Planner, (562) 806-7772

4. Project Location:

Bell Gardens, California
County of Los Angeles
The City of Bell Gardens Housing Element 2021-2029 would apply to the entire geographic area located within the boundaries of the City of Bell Gardens (City), located in the southern portion of Los Angeles County approximately 13 miles southeast of the Los Angeles Civic Center. Figure 1, Regional Location Map shows the boundaries of the City within the region.

S. Applicant's Name and Address:

City of Bell Gardens
Community Development Department
7100 Garfield Avenue
Bell Gardens, CA 90201

6. General Plan Land Use Designation:

Various, Citywide
The Bell Gardens General Plan provides for a range of land use designations/zones in the City that can accommodate residential units. Multiple residential General Plan land use designations within the City provide opportunities for development of housing projects, including: Low Density Residential, Medium Density Residential, High Density Residential, Very High Density, and Mixed Use. The Housing Element 2021-2029 Update does not propose to change any particular parcel's General Plan land use designation.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
II-1
Exhibit 2 235

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..................................................................................... .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... .................................................................................. .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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Housing Element Sites Inventory
................................................................................................................ ............ ........... ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Exhibit 2 236

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST

7. Zoning Designation:

Various, Citywide
Multiple residential General Plan land use designations within the City provide opportunities for development of housing projects, including: Low Density Residential (R-1), Medium Density Residential (R-2), High Density Residential (R-3) and Mixed Use (M-U).

The Housing Element 2021-2029 proposes zoning changes to two parcels, Rezone Site #1, located at 6262 Gage Avenue (APN 6330-018-075) and which would be rezoned from C-3 and R-3 to R-3 and Rezone Site #2, located at 6845 Florence Place (APN 6348-019-028), 6814 Suva Street (APN 6358-019- 026) and 6863 Florence Place (APN 6358-019-0060) which would be rezoned from M-1 to R-3.

8. Description of Project:

The project is the adoption and implementation of the Bell Gardens Housing Element 2021-2029 (project). The Bell Gardens Housing Element consists of the following major components:
• Introduction: An overview of the purpose and contents of the Housing Element (Section 1); • Housing Needs Assessment: An analysis of the demographic and housing characteristics and trends (Section 2);
• Housing Constraints: A review of potential market, governmental, and environmental constraints to meeting the identified housing needs (Section 3); • Housing Resources: An evaluation of resources available to address housing goals (Section 4); • Housing Action Plan: A statement of the Housing Plan to address the identified housing needs, including housing goals, policies and programs (Section 5).

Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA)
State Housing Element law requires that a local jurisdiction accommodate a share of the region's projected housing needs for the planning period. This share, called the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA), is important because State law mandates that jurisdictions provide sufficient land to accommodate a variety of housing opportunities for all economic segments of the community.

Compliance with this requirement is measured by the jurisdiction's ability in providing adequate land to accommodate the RHNA. The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), as the regional planning agency, is responsible for allocating the RHNA to individual jurisdictions within the region.

The RHNA developed and adopted by SCAG covers the growth projection and planning period from June 30, 2021 through October 15, 2029. For the 2021 Housing Element update, the City of Bell Gardens is allocated a RHNA of 503 units. These units are distributed by income category as shown Table 1, Bell Gardens Housing Needs for 2021-2029 Housing Element. The RHNA includes a fair share adjustment which allocates future (construction) need by each income category in a way that meets the State mandate to reduce the over -concentration of lower income households in one community or areas within the region.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-3
Exhibit 2 237

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Table 1
Bell Gardens Housine Needs for 2021-2029 Housine Element I,,hcome Categgry (% of Cou.niy AMI)
Number of Ufiits
Percent,
Extremely Low (30%AMI)
50 9.9%
Very Low (50% AMI) 1
50 9.9%
Low (80% AMI)
29 5.8%
Moderate (120%AMI)
72 14.3%
Above Moderate (>120% AMI)
302
60%
Total
503
100%
Source: SCAG 6th Cycle Final RHNA Adopted 3/4/2021, approved by HCD on 3/22/21.

AMI = Area Median Income.

Source: City of Bell Gardens, 2021-2029 Housing Element, August 2021.

Approved and Pipeline Projects
The 61h cycle RHNA projection period began on June 30, 2021. Therefore, housing units to be permitted after this date can be credited toward the RHNA. As of June 2021, 82 units have been entitled, approved, or in the pipeline. Apartments and ADUs are assumed to be affordable to moderate income households based on the analysis of market rents in the Housing Element. In part, due to the low rents in the City, rental multi -family housing construction in the City has been limited.

Approved and pipeline projects are shown in Table 2, Approved and Pipeline Projects.

Table 2
Approved and Pipeline Projects
No. of
Income/
Project
Zoning
Type of Units
Status
Units
Affordability
5953 Florence Ave
C4
Apartments
4 4 Above Moderate
Approved
8000 Bell Gardens
R3
Condos
48 48 Above Moderate
Entitled
6430 Foster Bridge
R3
Apartments
4 4 Above Moderate
Approved
Blvd
6231 & 6301 Eastern
Condos and Retail
Application
MU
16 16 Above Moderate
Avenue
Submitted
3 homes and 2
3 Above Moderate
6515 Florence Place
R3
5 Plan Checks
ADUs
2 Moderate
Application
APN 6330-017-052
R3
Apartments
5 5 Moderate
Submitted
7 Moderate
Total
82 75 Above Moderate
Source: City of Bell Gardens, 2021-2029 Housing Element, August 2021.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-4
Exhibit 2 238

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Anticipated Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
New State laws passed since 2017 have substantially relaxed the development standards and procedures for the construction of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). As a result, the City has seen an increase in ADU activities in the community, increasing from two units in 2018, five units in 2019, and five units permitted in 2020 (with another nine units approved).

In 2021, the City has seen a significant increase in ADU submittals and have approved over 30 units to date (as of June 2021) with more anticipated. Based on this trend, the City anticipates permitting 60 ADUs in 2021.

The City updated its Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Ordinance in 2020, resulting in significantly increased ADU interests. The Housing Element also includes a program to facilitate the development ADUs. For the purpose of RHNA credits, the City assumes five ADUs annually for a total of 40 ADUs over the eight -year planning period of the Housing Element. Following the SCAG Regional Accessory Dwelling Unit Affordability Analysis, the City assumed the affordability distribution for ADUs as shown in Table 3, Projection of ADU Activities.

Table 1
Projection of ADU Activities
Income Level
# of Units
SCAG Affordability
Distribution
Extremely Low Income (30% AMI)
6 15%
Very -Low Income (31-50% AMI)
1 2%
Low Income (51-80%AMI)
17 43%
Moderate Income (81-120% AMI)
2 6%
Above Moderate Income (>120%AMI)
14 34%
Tota 1
40 100 %
Source: SCAG Regional Accessory Dwelling Unit Affordability Analysis 2021 Credits and Remaining RHNA
Based on entitled/approved and pipeline projects, as well as the projected ADUs, the City has met a portion of its 6t" cycle RHNA already, with a remaining RHNA of 251 units, primarily in the above moderate income level. Table 4, Credits Toward RHNA shows the City's credits and remaining RHNA.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-5
Exhibit 2 239

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Table 4
Credits Toward RHNA
Income Category
RHNA
Approved/
Entitled/
Pipeline
ADUs
Remaining
RHNA
Extremely Low (30% AMI)1
50 0
6 44
Very Low (50% AMI)
50 0
1 49
Low (80% AM I)
29 0
17 12
Moderate (120%AMI)
72 55
2 15
Above Moderate (>120% AMI)
302
27 14
251
Total Units
503
82 40
381
Source: City of Bell Gardens, 2021-2029 Housing Element, August 2021.

Available Land for Housing
Affordability and Density
State law establishes specific criteria for feasible sites to accommodate lower income RHNA. For a community with over 25,000 population, the default density is 30 units per acre and the site must be at least 0.5 acre. In Bell Gardens, the R-3 and Mixed Use (MU) zoning districts meet this default density requirement. The entitled Condominium project at 8000 Bell Gardens yielded slightly above 22 units per acre. Therefore, this achieved density of 22 units per acre is used to estimate future development potential on R-3 and MU properties. Only sites at or larger than 0.5 acre in size are used to meet the lower income RHNA.

Sites Previously Identified in 5th Cycle Housing Element The City of Bell Gardens has identified a neighborhood on the west side of the City as a good candidate for affordable and market -rate housing opportunities. The Gotham Street neighborhood is generally bounded by Bell Gardens Avenue on the west, Clara Street on the north, Eastern Avenue on the east, and Gotham Street on the south, and includes deep lots (more than 300 feet deep) that could be redeveloped for efficient housing with appropriate open space and sufficient parking. Currently, many of the properties are densely populated but underutilized from a land use perspective. There are also several vacant properties within this neighborhood that present excellent opportunities for housing development. Facilitating residential development in this neighborhood through recycling of underutilized properties and/or construction on vacant properties also has the potential to alleviate overcrowding issues. Table 5, Gotham Street Neighborhood — Vacant Sites shows the four vacant properties within the Gotham Street neighborhood that the City has identified that have more than adequate capacity to accommodate the City's RHNA.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-6
Exhibit 2 240

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Table 5
Gotham Street Neighborhood —Vacant Sites
Address/
Potential
Income/
GP
Zoning
Existing Use
Acres
APN
Units
Affordability
5500 Quinn St.

High Density
R-3
Vacant

0.18 4
Moderate
6227-026-001
Multiple Res.
5829 Muller St.

High Density
R-3
Vacant

0.24 5
Moderate
6230-009-024
Multiple Res.
5614 Clara St.

High Density
R-3
Vacant

0.53 12
Lower
6227-020-010
Multiple Res.
6030 Gage Ave.

High Density
R-3
Vacant

0.26 6
Moderate
6330-017-052
Multiple Res.

Source: City of Bell Gardens, 2021-2029 Housing Element, August 2021.

Sites Not Previously Identified in 51h Cycle Housing Element Additional opportunities are available in the City's R-3 and MU Overlay. One R-3 property on Fostoria Street that was recently available on sale. The property is only developed with an old single-family home and some warehousing use.

Significant opportunities exist in the City's MU Overlay. The areas along Eastern Avenue (between Randolph Street and Lubec Street), Gage Avenue (between Long Beach Freeway and Darwell Avenue), and Eastern (between Clara Street and Quinn Street) are developed with antiquated commercial and manufacturing uses with occasional single-family homes interspersed throughout these corridors.

Typical uses include auto -related, restaurants, and retail with large surface parking lots.

The Mixed Use Overlay allows 30 units per acre with an FAR of 4.0 and up to four stories. Existing development in the overlay area was developed during the 1950s and 1960s. Current FAR rarely exceeds 0.25 and most properties have not undergone any significant improvements since they were built. Most properties have deferred maintenance or are blighted.

The City has not yet amended the Zoning Code to implement the Mixed Use designation but utilizes the R-3 standards for the recent project application. Based on density, the MU sites (20-30 units per acre) can also facilitate lower income housing. However, for the purpose of identifying sites for all RHNA income groups, the MU sites are assigned to the moderate and above moderate income RHNA categories. Table 6, R-3 and MU Overlay — Nonvacant Sites shows sites in the City with additional opportunities for housing development.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-7
Exhibit 2 241

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Table 2
R-3 and MU Overlay - Nonvacant Sites
Address/
Potential
Income/
GP
Zoning
Existing Use
Acres
APN
Units
Affordability
High
R-3 Site
Single-family home and
Density
5629 Fostoria St.

R-3
warehousing;

0.42 9
9 Moderate
Multiple
6227-030-026
site was recently on sale
Res.

MU Site #1
Antiquated commercial
6328003047
uses with significant

0.34 6328003052
surface parking

0.34 1Moderate
6328003049
MU
CM

0.17 30
20 Above Moderate
6328003048
Average ILR - 0.23

0.17 6328003050
Average Year Built -1952

0.17 6328003051
Average FAR - 0.32

0.17 Old retail stores and
services (e.g., laundromat
and dry cleaner) with
MU Site #2
large surface parking,

0.70 6330014032
donut shop, barbershop,
10 Moderate
MU
CM

0.07 21
6330014033
etc.
11 Above Moderate

0.17 6330014035
Average ILR - 0.57
Average Year Built -1960
Average FAR - 0.30
MU Site #3
6328002067

0.13 Antiquated commercial
6328002068

0.13 uses with significant
6328002066

0.13 surface parking
6328002069

0.13 10 Moderate
MU
CM
42 6328002065

0.12 32 Above Moderate
Average ILR - 0.64
6328002075

0.35 Average Year Built -1958
6328002074

0.38 Average FAR - 0.31
6328002070

0.14 6328002072

0.36 Mostly auto -related uses
such as repair and
MU Site #4
equipment rental

0.16 6328003035
MU
CM

0.32 16
16 Above Moderate
6328003034
Average ILR - 0.86

0.21 6328003036
Average Year Built -1968
Average FAR - 0.48
Mostly auto -related uses
MU Site #5
and corner market (liquor
6328004045

0.26 store)
6328004046

0.25 MU
CM
24 24 Above Moderate
6328004048
0 21
Average ILR -1.06
6328004047

0.25 Average Year Built -1962
6328004049

0.05 Average FAR - 0.30
Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-8
Exhibit 2 242

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Table 2
R-3 and MU Overlay - Nonvacant Sites
Address/
Potential
Income/
GP
Zoning
Existing Use
Acres
APN
Units
Affordability
A variety of old retail
MU Site #6
(such as liquor store and
6330015024
corner market), auto, and

0.25 6330015025
restaurant uses (one is

0.18 1Moderate
6330015026
MU
CM
closed).

0.12 31
21 Above Moderate
6330015023

0.25 6330015050
Average ILR - 0.99

0.26 6330015051
Average Year Built -1953

0.27 Average FAR - 0.22
MU Site #7
6227018002
A variety of old

0.15 6227019008
commercial uses, such as

0.12 6227018003
auto -related, laundromat,

0.15 6227018005
corner market, and

0.06 1Moderate
6227019007
MU
CM
services

0.12 35
25 Above Moderate
6227018004

0.08 6227018006
Average ILR - 0.84

0.20 6227019020
Average Year Built -1949

0.29 6227018001
Average FAR - 0.32

0.15 6227019019

0.33 MU Site #8
Two small restaurants
6227016026
with large surface parking

0.33 6227016005

0.12 MU
CM
19 19 Above Moderate
6227016004
Average ILR - 0.34

0.12 6227016003
Average Year Built -1956

0.12 6227016002
Average FAR - 0.14

0.12 A mix of auto -related,
MU Site #9
office, and laundromat
6328003053
uses, and a small Christian

0.39 6328003040
MU
CM
ministries

0.17 27
27 Above Moderate
6328003041

0.17 6328003042
Average ILR - 0.61

0.34 6328003043
Average Year Built -1954

0.14 Average FAR - 0.30
A mix of old industrial and
MU Site #10
auto -related uses, with
6328004027

0.15 two dilapidated homes
6328004028

0.13 MU
CM
20 20 Above Moderate
6328004029
0 27
Average ILR -1.17
6328004030

0.26 Average Year Built -1952
6328004031

0.26 Average FAR - 0.19
Source: City of Bell Gardens, 2021-2029 Housing Element, August 2021.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-9
Exhibit 2 243

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Sites Identified for Rezoning
The City also identified two properties for rezoning properties that are appropriate for rezoning for residential uses.

Table 7
Nonvacant Sites Identified for Rezoning
Address/
Current
Proposed
Potential
Income/
APN
GP/Zoning
Zoning
Existing Use
Acres
Units
Affordability
Rezone Site #1
Mostly vacant site with
C-3 and R-
6262 Gage Ave.

R-3
split zoning; site has a

2.80 62
Lower
6330-018-075
3 boarded up home
Rezone Site #2
This site is comprised
6845 Florence PI
of three parcels, two of
6348-019-028
which are vacant. One
parcel has a 6,545-
6814 Suva St
M-1
R-3
square -foot building on

5.36 118
Lower
6358-019-026
a 1.4-acre lot (or an
existing FAR of only
6863 Florence PI

0.11). The building was
6358-019-006
constructed in 1979
Source: City of Bell Gardens, 2021-2029 Housing Element, August 2021.

Summary of RHNA Strategies
All the sites identified in the sites inventory meet the default density of 30 units per acre. However, most sites are located in the MU Overlay where the City is only beginning to see interest in redevelopment. Given that these sites may be more challenging for lower income development, the City has also identified two sites for rezone into R-3 residential uses. With the candidate sites for rezone, the City is able to fully meet its RHNA with an overall buffer of about 20 percent. Table 8, Summary of RHNA Strategies shows all projects, ADUs, reuse, new, and rezone sites to satisfy the RHNA. Figure 2, Sites Inventory for RHNA shows the location of the sites.

Table 8
Summary of RHNA Strategies
Lower
Moderate
Above
Moderate
Total
RHNA
129
72 302
503
Entitled/Approved/Pipeline Projects
0 7
75 82
ADUs
24 2
14 40
51h Cycle Reuse Sites - Gotham Street Vacant Sites
12 15
0 27
61h Cycle New Sites
0 59
215
274
R-3 Site
0 9
0 9
Mixed Use Sites
0 50
215
265
Rezone Sites
180
0 0
180
Total Capacity
216
83 304
603
Surplus/(Shortfall)
87 11
2 100
Source: City of Bell Gardens, 2021-2029 Housing Element, August 2021.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
II-10
Exhibit 2 244

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..................................................................................... .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... .................................................................................. .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Figure 2
Housing Element Sites Inventory
................................................................................................................ ............ ........... ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Exhibit 2 245

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST

9. Surrounding Land Uses and Setting:

Various, Citywide
The sites are surrounded by High Density, Mixed Use (Commercial/Residential), and Very High Density Residential land uses. The sites are surrounded by Commercial Manufacturing (CM), Medium Commercial (0), Medium Density Residential (R3), and Low Density Multiple Residential (R2) zoning.

10. Other Public Agencies Whose Approval Is Required:

The California Department of Housing and Community Development reviews and determines whether the Housing Element Update complies with State of California law. No other approvals by outside public agencies are required.

11. Have California Native American Tribes Traditionally and Culturally Affiliated with the Project Area Requested Consultation Pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21080.3.1:

The City of Bell Gardens typically initiates consultation with the Fernandeno Tataviam Band of Mission Indians, Gabrieleno Tongva, San Gabriel Band of Mission Indians, Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians — Kizh Nation, San Manuel Bank of Mission Indians, and Tejon Indian Tribe and their designated tribal representative for their participation in the Housing Element update and requested information regarding tribal cultural resources within the City on November 11, 2021. None of the Native American Tribes contact have requested consultation.

B. ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED
The environmental factors that would be potentially affected by this project and are mitigated to a less than significant impact are indicated below.
❑ Aesthetics
❑ Biological Resources
❑ Geology/Soils
❑ Agriculture and Forestry Resources ❑ Air Quality
❑ Cultural Resources
❑ Greenhouse Gas Emissions
❑ Hydrology/Water Quality ❑ Land Use/Planning
❑ Noise ❑ Population/Housing
❑ Recreation
❑ Utilities/Service Systems
C. DETERMINATION
❑ Transportation/Traffic
❑ Wildfire
On the basis of this initial evaluation:
❑ Energy
❑ Hazards & Hazardous Materials
❑ Mineral Resources
❑ Public Services
❑ Tribal Cultural Resources
❑ Mandatory Findings of
Significance
❑X 1 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 of the incorporated mitigation measures and revisions in the Housing Element 2021-2029 City of Bell Gardens
Initial Study/Negative Declaration December 2021
II-12
Exhibit 2 246

11. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
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) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further is required.

Si o 11 ate��^ �_ Date
Carmen Morales
City Planner
D. EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
1) A brief explanation is required for all answers except "No Impact" answers that are adequately supported by the information sources cited. A "No Impact" answer is adequately supported if the referenced information sources show that the impact simply does not apply to projects like the one involved (e.g., the project falls outside a fault rupture zone). A "No Impact" answer should be explained where it is based on project -specific factors as well as general standards. 2) All answers must take account of the whole action involved, including off -site as well as on -site, cumulative as well as project -level, indirect, and construction as well as operational impacts. 3) A "Less Than Significant Impact" applies when the proposed project would not result in a substantial and adverse change in the environment. This impact level does not require mitigation measures.
4) "Potentially Significant Impact" is appropriate if there is substantial evidence that an effect is significant. If there are one or more "Potentially Significant Impact' entries when the determination is made, an EIR is required.
5) "Potentially Significant Unless Mitigation Incorporated" applies where the incorporation of mitigation measures has reduced an effect from "Potentially Significant Impact' to a "Less Than Significant Impact." The initial study must describe the mitigation measures and briefly explain how they reduce the effect to a less than significant level.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
II-13
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
Exhibit 2 247

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact

1. AESTHETICS. Except as provided in Public Resources Code Section 21099 would the project:
a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? ❑
❑
❑
b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including,
but not limited to, trees, rock outcrops, and historic
❑
❑
❑
buildings within a state scenic highway?
c) In non -urbanized areas, substantially degrade the
existing visual character or quality of public views of the site and its surroundings? (Public views are those
that are experienced from publicly accessible
❑
❑
❑
vantage point.) If the project is in an urbanized area, would the project conflict with applicable zoning
and other regulations governing scenic quality?
d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare
which would adversely affect day or nighttime views
❑
❑
❑
in the area?
Environmental Setting
Scenic Vistas and Scenic Resources
The City's General Plan does not define any designated scenic vistas or resources in the City. The General Plan includes an Open Space/Parks designation applied to areas that are public parks or private land reserved for open spaces. However, all these lands are either developed with park uses or utility infrastructure and surrounded by urbanized areas. The City is bounded by urban developmentto the north and south and by the Rio Hondo River, a concrete lined channel, to the east. The western edge of the City is bounded by 1-710.

Visual Character
Bell Gardens is a dense and urban community with very limited vacant land. The City has been fully developed since its incorporation in 1961. Very little undeveloped land remains and is limited to scattered vacant lots. The predominate land use in the City is residential, with 58% of the land in the City designated as residential. The remainder of land is designated either commercial, industrial, public/institutional, or park uses.

Light and Glare
The City is developed with established existing sources of light and glare, such as street lights and parking lights, walkway lights, lighted recreational facilities, and light emitted from residential and nonresidential buildings. The City is surrounded by other urbanized development on all sides. Many of the City's residential neighborhoods are surrounded or flanked with commercial, light manufacturing uses, and highway uses which may create greater lighting effects.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
II-14
Exhibit 2 248

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Regulatory Setting
Regulations exist at state and local levels that guide development and influence the physical form and aesthetic character of the City and include:
• California Scenic Highway Program
• Bell Gardens General Plan
• Bell Gardens Zoning Ordinance
Checklist Discussion
aJ & c) No Impact.

The 2021-2029 Housing Element Update in and of itself does not propose or authorize any projects or development plan. The Housing Element sets forth the City's policies and detailed programs for meeting existing and future housing needs as determined by the RHNA process, for conserving and enhancing affordable housing, providing adequate housing sites, and for increasing affordable housing opportunities for extremely low, very -low, low and moderate income persons and households. The Housing Element was prepared for consistency with the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance to the extent feasible.

Future development will be required to adhere to all city design guidelines and standards including the Zoning Ordinance, General Plan policies, and any additional specific development guidelines for a particular area. The City's Zoning Ordinance contains development standards for each zoning district, consistent with the land use designations of the General Plan, to ensure quality development in the community.

No sites are proposed in Open Space/Parks designated areas. All future projects would be developed on sites that are zoned for residential or mixed -use and commercial areas. No areas currently designated as open space would be converted to urban uses and no development would be permitted to encroach on open space.

All future projects would be treated as individual projects and may be subject to specific environmental analysis. Nevertheless, there are no policies in the Housing Element which either permit or promote development in areas that aren't currently developed with existing uses. There are no policies or programs in the Housing Element that would directly affect scenic vistas nor any that would degrade the visual character of the City. The project would therefore have no impact. b) No Impact.

There are no state scenic highways in the vicinity of Bell Gardens. Therefore, there would be no impact. d) No Impact.

As previously stated, the 2021-2029 Housing Element Update in itself does not propose or authorize any projects or development plan. Future development would occur in areas that are currently urbanized and commonly experience the impacts of existing light sources. Future development would likely replace existing development and would therefore not introduce additional light and glare impacts. Future development in the City would be required to be designed and constructed in accordance with the Bell Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
II-15
Exhibit 2 249

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Gardens Zoning Ordinance to prevent spillover light effects or the use of materials that would create new glare. Therefore, the Housing Element 2021-2029 Update would have no impact on light and glare.

Mitigation Measures
None required.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
II-16
Exhibit 2 250

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than No
Significant
Impact Impact

2. 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 nonagricultural use?
b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a ❑
❑
❑
Williamson Act contract?
c) Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of, forestland (as defined in Public Resources Code
Section 12220(g)), timberland (as 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 forestland or conversion of ❑ ❑ ❑ forestland 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 nonagricultural use or
conversion of forestland to non -forest use?
Environmental Setting
The City of Bell Gardens is an urban environment designated for residential, commercial, and manufacturing use and is essentially built out. There is no land within the City of Bell Gardens designated or zoned for agricultural use, farmland, forest, or timber production nor are there any existing agricultural, farmland, forest or timber production uses. Pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program, the City is designated as Urban and Built Up Land and Non -Agricultural or Natural Vegetation (California Department of Conservation 2018).

Checklist Discussion
o), b), c), d), e) No Impact.

The Housing Element update does not propose or authorize any development. The project would not convert any Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance to a non-agricultural use. No land within the City of Bell Gardens is subject to the Williamson Act contract. As mentioned above, the City of Bell Gardens does not have any land that is designated or zoned for forest use or timber production. Additionally, there are no nearby agricultural sites that would be affected by development within Bell Gardens. The project would have no impact on agricultural or forest resources.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
II-17
Exhibit 2 251

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Mitigation Measures
None required.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
II-18
Exhibit 2 252

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact

3. AIR QUALITY. Would the project:
a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the
❑
❑
®
❑
applicable air quality plan?
b) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is
❑
❑
®
❑
nonattainment under an applicable federal or state
ambient air quality standard?
c) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant
❑
❑
®
❑
concentrations?
d) Result in other emissions (such as those leading to
odors) adversely affecting a substantial number of
❑
❑
®
❑
people?
Environmental Setting
Both the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) have established ambient air quality standards for common pollutants. Ambient air quality standards are set to protect public health and are levels of pollutants which represent safe levels that avoid specific adverse health effects. The ambient air quality standards cover what are called "criteria" pollutants because the health and other effects of each pollutant are described in criteria documents. The major criteria pollutants are ozone, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and particulate matter. Both federal and state ambient air quality standards apply, as established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and state air quality agencies (CALEPA for California). California air quality standards are generally more stringent that federal standards.

The City of Bell Gardens is within the South Coast Air Basin (basin). In Los Angeles County, the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) is the agency responsible for protecting the public health and welfare through the administration of federal and state air quality laws and policies. This regional agency regulates air quality through its permit authority over most types of stationary emission sources and through its planning and review process.

Attainment Designations
Specific geographic areas that do not meet federal air quality standards (National Ambient Air Quality Standards [NAASQS]) or state air quality standards (California Ambient Air Quality Standards [CAAQS]) for a particular air quality pollutant are in "nonattainment" areas for the pollutant. The current federal and state attainment status for the basin is provided in Table 9, Federal and State Air Quality Designations in the South Coast Air Basin.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
II-19
Exhibit 2 253

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Table 9
South Coast Air Basin Attainment Status
Pollutant
Standard'
Averaging Time
Designation'
Attainment Date
NAAQS
1979 1-Hour
Nonattainment (Extreme)
2/6/2023
1-Hour
(0.12 ppm)
(not attained)'
1-Hour
Nonattainment
N/A
Ozone
CAAQS
(0.09 ppm)
NAAQS
1997 8-Hour
Nonattainment (Extreme)
6/15/2024
(0.08 ppm)
NAAQS
2008 8-Hour
Nonattainment (Extreme)
7/20/2032
8-Hour
(0.075 ppm)
Ozone'
8/3/2038
NAAQS
2015 8-Hour
Nonattainment (Extreme)
(0.070 ppm)
CAAQS
8-Hour
Nonattainment
Beyond 2032
(0.070 ppm)
NAAQS
1-Hour (35 ppm)
Attainment (Maintenance)
6/11/2007 (attained)
CO
CAAQS
8-Hour (9 ppm)
Attainment
6/11/2007 (attained)
NAAQS
1-Hour (0.1 ppm)
Unclassifiable/Attainment
N/A (attained)
NAAQS
Annual (0.053
Attainment (Maintenance)
9/22/1998 (attained)
NO2 6
ppm)
1-hour (0.18
CAAQS
ppm) Annual
Attainment
-
(0.030 ppm)
NAAQS
1-Hour (75 ppb)
Designations Pending
N/A (attained)
(expect Uncl./Attainment)
24-Hour (0.14
S027
NAAQS
ppm)
Unclassifiable/Attainment
3/19/1979 (attained)
Annual (0.03
ppm)
NAAQS
1987 24-Hour
(150 µg/m3)
Attainment (Maintenance)'
7/26/2013 (attained)
PM10
24-Hour (50
CAAQS
µg/m3) Annual
Nonattainment
N/A
(20 µg/m3)
NAAQS
2006 24-Hour
(35 µg/m3)
Nonattainment (Serious)
12/31/2019
e
NAAQS
1997 Annual
(15.0 µg/m3)
Attainment
8/24/2016
PM2.5
NAAQS
2021 Annual
(12.0 µg/m3)
Nonattainment (Serious)
12/31/2025
CAAQS
Annual
(12.0 µg/m3)
Nonattainment
N/A
Lead
NAAQS
3-Months Rolling
Nonattainment
12/31/2015
(0.15 µg/m3)
(Partial)"
Notes:

Source: http://www.agmd.gov/dots/default-source/clean-air-plans/air-quality-management-plans/naaqs-caags-feb2016.pdf NAAQS = National Ambient Air Quality Standards, CAAQS = California Ambient Air Quality Standards U.S. EPA often only declares Nonattainment areas; everywhere else is listed as Unclassifiable/Attainment or Unclassifiable.
3 A design value below the NAAQS for data through the full year or smog season prior to the attainment date is typically required for attainment demonstration.
° 1-hour 03 standard (0.12 ppm) was revoked, effective June 15, 2005 ; however, the Basin has not attained this standard based on 2008-2010 data and is still subject to anti -backsliding requirements.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-20
Exhibit 2 254

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Table 9
South Coast Air Basin Attainment Status
1 1997 8-hour 03 standard (0.08 ppm) was reduced (0.075 ppm), effective May 27, 2008; the revoked 1997 03 standard is still subject to anti -backsliding requirements.
6 New NO2 1-hour standard, effective August 2, 2010; attainment designations January 20, 2012; annual NO2 standard retained.

The 1971 annual and 24-hour S02 standards were revoked, effective August 23, 2010; however, these 1971 standards will remain in effect until one year after U.S. EPA promulgates area designations for the 2010 S02 1-hour standard. Area designations are still pending, with Basin expected to be designated Unclassifiable /Attainment. 8 Annual PM10 standard was revoked, effective December 18, 2006; 24-hour PM10 NAAQS deadline was 12/31/2006; SCAQMD request for attainment redesignation and PM10 maintenance plan was approved by U.S. EPA on June 26, 2013, effective July 26, 2013.
9 Attainment deadline for the 2006 24-Hour PM2.5 NAAQS (designation effective December 14, 2009) is December 31, 2019 (end of the 10th calendar year after effective date of designations for Serious nonattainment areas). Annual PM2.5 standard was revised on January 15, 2013, effective March 18, 2013, from 15 to 12 µg/m3. Designations effective April 15, 2015, so Serious area attainment deadline is December 31, 2025. 11 Partial Nonattainment designation — Los Angeles County portion of Basin only for near -source monitors. Expect redesignation to attainment based on current monitoring data.

Air Quality Management Plan
Every three (3) years the SCAQMD prepares a new AQMP, updating the previous plan and having a 20- year horizon. On March 23, 2017 CARB approved the 2016 AQMP. The 2016 AQMP is a regional blueprint for achieving the federal air quality standards and healthful air. The 2016 AQMP includes both stationary and mobile source strategies to ensure that rapidly approaching attainment deadlines are met, that public health is protected to the maximum extent feasible, and that the region is not faced with burdensome sanctions if the Plan is not approved or if the NAAQS are not met on time.

The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requires a discussion of any inconsistencies between a proposed project and applicable General Plans and Regional Plans (CEQA Guidelines Section 15125). The regional plan that applies to the proposed project includes the SCAQMD Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP). The SCAQMD CEQA Handbook states that "New or amended General Plan Elements (including land use zoning and density amendments), Specific Plans, and significant projects must be analyzed for consistency with the AQMP." Strict consistency with all aspects of the plan is usually not required. A proposed project would be consistent with the AQMP if it furthers one or more policies and does not obstruct other policies.

Sensitive Receptors
CARB and the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) have identified the following groups of individuals as the most likely to be affected by air pollution: the elderly over 65, children under 14, infants (including in utero in the third trimester of pregnancy), and persons with cardiovascular and chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma, emphysema, and bronchitis. Some land uses are considered more sensitive to air pollution than others due to the types of population groups or activities involved and are referred to as sensitive receptors. Examples of these sensitive receptors are residences, schools, hospitals, and daycare centers.

Regulatory Setting
Regulations exist at federal, state, and local levels with regard to air quality and include:
a) Federal Clean Air Act
Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-21
Exhibit 2 255

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
b) California Clean Air Act
c) State Implementation Plan
d) California Energy Code
e) Regional Air Quality Strategy
f) South Coast Air Quality Management District Rules and Regulations:

Checklist Discussion
a) Less Than Significant impact.

The proposed project is an update to the City of Bell Gardens Housing Element. SCAG's Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) for the City for the 2021-2029 planning period is 503 units. To meet the RHNA requirements, the Housing Element identifies possible housing sites to address Bell Garden's RHNA obligation. These sites consist of entitled/approved/pipeline projects, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), sites identified in the 5t" Cycle Housing Element that remain undeveloped (reuse sites), new sites, and two sites that would require a rezone.

The entitled/approved/pipeline projects, ADUs, reuse sites, and most of the new sites would not require any land use designation changes or rezoning. Rezoning on Rezone Site #1would not result in an increase in the current density allowed on the site. Housing is not a permitted use on Rezone Site #2; however, the current Floor Area Ratio (FAR) on the site allows for development at a 2.0 FAR, which would total up to 466,963 square feet of development. The Housing Element proposes construction of 118 residential units.

Assuming an average of 1,000 square feet per unit, development on the site could potentially total up to 118,000 square feet, which would result in development far below the currently allowed FAR square footage on this site. Therefore, there would be no increase in density on either Rezone Site #1 or #2.

The rezoning on these sites also requires changes to the City's Zoning Map. Therefore, the estimated population for Rezone Site #2 would be higher than the population forecasted for this site in the General Plan since that estimate was based on a different use (manufacturing). Although the Housing Element would result in slightly higher population than those estimated in the General Plan, the increased residential density of the future development of the Housing Element is in response to SCAG forecasts in relation to the City's RHNA and SCAG's Regional Council recently approved and fully adopted the Connect SoCal (2020-2045 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS)). Although the 2016 AQMP does not include the emissions of the additional population growth associated with the Housing Element, as the AQMP is based on population, employment, and VMT in the South Coast Air Basin region as projected by SCAG and operation of the new land uses associated with the Housing Element would not cumulatively contribute to the nonattainment designations of the South Coast Air Basin, the Housing Element would be consistent with the AQMP.

Therefore, the project would have a less than significant impact on implementation of the applicable air quality plan.
b), c) Less Than Significant Impact.

Short -Term (Construction) Emissions
Future development consistent with the General Plan could result in an increase in criteria pollutants during construction activities, such as excavation and grading, exhaust emissions of construction Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-22
Exhibit 2 256

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
equipment, and the use of typical construction materials such as asphalt and other construction materials that tend to volatilize into the atmosphere.

Information regarding each specific development project accommodated under the Housing Element (such as construction timeline, earthworks information, amount and type of construction equipment etc.) would be needed in order to quantify the level of impact associated with construction activity.

Construction activities associated with the buildout of the future development of the Housing Element are anticipated to occur sporadically over an approximately 9-year period (i.e., 2021-2029) or longer.

Future development would be comprised of multiple smaller development projects, each having its own construction timeline and activities. The individual construction projects would be subject to regulatory measures including Rule 403 for fugitive dust control, Rule 1113 for architectural coatings, and other applicable SCAQMD regulatory measures as well as applicable policies and implementation measures of the General Plan Update. In addition, potential mitigation could be imposed at the project level including extension of construction schedules and/or use of special equipment etc. In addition to compliance with SCAQMD rules, the construction activity associated with each individual project would also be subject to all applicable policies and implementation measures contained in the City's Zoning Code. Adherence to applicable regulations and policies would contribute to minimizing construction -related criteria air pollutant emission. Additionally, any future project resulting from adoption and implementation of the Housing Element would be required to comply with SCAQMD's and Bell Garden's regulations, which include implementation of dust control measures.

Long -Term (Operational) Emissions
Future residential development would potentially increase population in the City and expose existing sensitive receptors to pollutant concentrations. The potential operational air quality impacts of future residential projects largely would be associated with motor vehicle trips generated by the proposed developments. Since most of the anticipated development sites would result in the replacement of existing development with new housing and mixed -use projects, the increase in the number of vehicle trips is not expected to be significant. Additionally, public transit routes are located along Garfield Avenue, Gage Avenue, Eastern Avenue, Florence Avenue, Florence Place, and Foster Bridge Boulevard. The development sites are located along or within walking distance of these major transportation corridors with existing transit stops. This placement of development sites is intended to encourage transit use and reduce auto dependency. Any minor increase in vehicle trips generated would only marginally increase daily emissions of ozone precursors and particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) and would likely be below SCAQMD established thresholds for consideration of a significant impact. rAnrlucinn
The project is the adoption of the City of Bell Garden's Housing Element 2021-2029 Update. Any individual development project would be subject to environmental review pursuant to CEQA and the City's local procedures to determine if any long-term air quality impacts would occur from the operation of a specific new development. As such, the project would not result in a cumulatively net increase of any criteria pollutant in which the project region is in nonattainment under the federal and state ambient air quality standard. Therefore, the project would have a less than significant impact in the region's nonattainment criteria pollutants and exposure to sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-23
Exhibit 2 257

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
d) Less Than Significant Impact.

Short -Term (Construction) Emissions
Future residential development construction activities could result in minor amounts of odor compounds associated with diesel heavy equipment exhaust and architectural coatings. These compounds would be emitted in various amounts at various locations during construction and potentially effect nearby sensitive receptors. However, odors are highest near the source and would quickly dissipate away from the source.

Such odors are temporary and generally occur at magnitudes that would not affect a substantial number of people. Therefore, impacts related to construction -generated odors would be less than significant.

Long -Term (Operational) Emissions
Typical long-term operational characteristics of residential development are not associated with the creation of odors nor anticipated to generate odors affecting a substantial number of people.

Implementation of the Housing Element 2021-2029 would result in possible construction of additional residential units. The Housing Element 2021-2029 would not create uses that, in the long-term operation, would be typically associated with the creation of such odors, nor are they anticipated to generate odors affecting a substantial number of people. Therefore, impacts related to odors generated from residential operations as a result of the Housing Element 2021-2029 would be less than significant.

Mitigation Measures
None required.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-24
Exhibit 2 258

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than No
Significant
Impact Impact

4. 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 -status ❑
❑
® ❑
species in local or regional plans, policies, or
regulations, or by the California Department of Fish
and Wildlife 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 Wildlife or US Fish and Wildlife Service?
c) Have a substantial adverse effect on state or
federally protected wetlands a (including, but not
limited to marsh, vernal pool, coastal, 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 established native resident or migratory
❑
❑
®
❑
wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native
wildlife nursery sites?
e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances
protecting biological resources, such as a tree
❑
❑
❑
preservation policy or ordinance?
f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted habitat
conservation plan, natural community conservation
❑
❑
❑
plan, or other approved local, regional, or state
habitat conservation plan?
Environmental Setting
The City of Bell Gardens is a dense and urban community with very limited vacant land. The City has been fully developed since its incorporation in 1961. Very little undeveloped land remains and is limited to scattered vacant lots. The General Plan includes an Open Space/Parks designation applied to areas that are public parks or private land reserved for open spaces. However, all these lands are either developed with park uses or utility infrastructure and surrounded by urbanized areas.

The City is bounded by urban development to the north and south and by the Rio Hondo River, a concrete lined channel, to the east. The western edge of the City is bounded by 1-710, with the concrete -lined Los Angeles River. One area of the City is shown as Freshwater Emergent Wetland and Freshwater Pond on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Wetlands Inventory. This area is located in the northeastern Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-25
Exhibit 2 259

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
area of the City and includes an arm of the Rio Hondo Coastal Spreading Grounds. The Rio Hondo Coastal Spreading Grounds serves as a water storage/groundwater recharge facility that retains and conserves local, imported, and reclaimed water to augment groundwater recharge in the groundwater basin. Other than this area, there are no sensitive habitats, riparian habitats, or wetlands in the City. The City does not have a tree preservation policy or ordinance.

The proposed Housing Element sites are located in urbanized area that have been developed previously.

Regulatory Setting
Regulations exist at federal, state, and local levels with regard to biological resources and include:
a) Federal Endangered Species Act
b) Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act
c) Federal Clean Water Act
d) California Endangered Species Act
e) California Fish and Game Code
f) Natural Community Conservation Planning Act
g) Porter -Cologne Water Quality Control Act
h) City of Bell Gardens General Plan
i) City of Bell Gardens Zoning Code
Checklist Discussion
a) b) c) d) Less than Significant Impact.

Inasmuch as the Housing Element could indirectly result in residential development and improvement, the project could result in increased density in residential and mixed -use areas of the City. However, the City is largely built -out and the City's General Plan Land Use Element and zoning code focuses residential growth into urbanized portions of the City. No development is proposed on or near the Rio Hondo Coastal Spreading Grounds. Because the areas where potential development may occur have already been disturbed through urban development, no significant changes are anticipated in the diversity or number of species of plants or animals, or in the deterioration of existing wildlife habitat. No riparian habitat, wetlands, wildlife corridors or nurseries would be impacted.

Existing applicable federal, state, and/or local policies would prevent development in areas that support sensitive or special status species, federally protected wetlands, or migration corridors.

Accordingly, adoption of the Housing Element 2021-2029 would have a less than significant impact on biological resources, including candidate, sensitive, or special -status species; riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community; federally protected wetlands a (including, but not limited to marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.); or native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species, corridors, or nurseries.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-26
Exhibit 2 260

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
e) No Impact.

The project is the adoption of the City of Bell Gardens Housing Element 2021-2029. The General Plan Housing Element is a policy document that addresses the housing need in the City; no actual development of land is proposed as part of the Housing Element. The City does not have a tree preservation ordinance for trees on public or private property. Therefore, the project would not conflict with tree preservation policies or ordinances and there would be no impact.
f) No Impact.

The City does not have a Habitat Conservation Plan nor Natural Community Conservation Plan. The General Plan Housing Element is a policy document that addresses the housing need in the City; no actual development or rezoning/redesignation of land is proposed as part of the Housing Element As discussed above, the project would not result in the approval of any physical improvements and does not propose any changes non -urbanized areas. The areas of the City identified for potential development sites are located within fully developed, urban settings surrounded by office, commercial, and residential land uses void of native plant or animal life and limited cover and foraging habitat and the project would not significantly impact biological resources. There are no Habitat Conservation Plans or Natural Community Conservation Plans applicable to these areas. Therefore, the project would not conflict with the provisions of an adopted habitat conservation plan, natural community conservation plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan and no impacts would occur.

Mitigation Measures
None required.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-27
Exhibit 2 261

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact

5. CULTURAL RESOURCES. Would the project:
a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the
significance of a historical resource pursuant to
❑
❑
®
❑
Section 15064.5?
b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the
significance of an archaeological resource pursuant
❑
❑
®
❑
to Section 15064.5?
c) Disturb any human remains, including those
❑
❑
®
❑
interred outside of formal cemeteries?
Environmental Setting
Bell Gardens has a history dating back to the late 1700's. In 1771 Antonio Lugo, a 35-year-old corporal in the Spanish army, was given a land grant of more than 29,514 acres, which today is known as the cities of Bell Gardens, Maywood, Vernon, Huntington Park, Walnut Park, Cudahy, South Gate, Lynwood and Commerce.

Bell Gardens incorporated on August 1, 1961. The City was entirely developed at the time of incorporation and currently there is very little vacant land.

Regulatory Setting
Regulations exist at federal, state, and local levels with regard to cultural resources and include:
j) National Historic Preservation
k) National Register of Historic Places
1) Federal Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act m) California Register of Historic Resources
n) CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5
o) California Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act p) California Public Resources Code Section 5097
q) Assembly Bill 52
r) Senate Bill 18
s) Bell Gardens General Plan Conservation Element
t) Bells Gardens Zoning Code
Checklist Discussion
a), b) Less Than Significant Impact.

The Housing Element is a General Plan policy document that addresses housing need in the City. The Housing Element Update does not propose or authorize any specific development and would not result in physical alterations or improvements. Future development would occur in urban areas that are currently Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-28
Exhibit 2 262

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
developed. It is unknown if or when any development would occur on the sites. Therefore, buildings that are not considered historic resources at this time, would need to be evaluated to determine if any are historic resources. It is unknown if there are any archaeological resources on the sites, which are located on previously developed and disturbed areas. In the unlikely event that future development does disturb archaeological resources, compliance with state regulations pertaining to discovery of archaeological resources would ensure that impacts are avoided. The project would result in a less than significant impact. cJ Less Than Significant impact.

The 2021-2029 Housing Element is a policy document and does not propose, permit, nor authorize any development. Future residential uses to meet the RHNA demand would be located in areas that are entirely urbanized and have experienced past grading or excavation. There are no specific development projects proposed for the project that would include excavation or grading. In the unlikely event that future development does disturb human remains, compliance with state regulations pertaining to discovery of human remains would ensue. The project would result in a less than significant impact.

Mitigation Measures
None required.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-29
Exhibit 2 263

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Less Than
Potentially
Significant
Less Than
No
Significant
Impact with
Significant
Impact
Impact
Mitigation
Impact
Incorporated

6. ENERGY. Would the project:
a) Result in potentially significant environmental
impact due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary
❑
❑
®
❑
consumption of energy resources, during project
construction or operation?
b) Conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for
❑
❑
®
❑
renewable energy or energy efficiency?
Environmental Setting
Electricity
Electricity is provided to the City by Southern California Edison (SCE). SCE provides electric power to more than 15 million persons, within a service area encompassing approximately 50,000 square miles. SCE derives electricity from varied energy resources including: fossil fuels, hydroelectric generators, nuclear power plants, geothermal power plants, solar power generation, and wind farms. SCE also purchases from independent power producers and utilities, including out-of-state suppliers.

Natural Gas
Natural gas is provided to the City by Southern California Gas (SoCalGas).

Regulatory Setting
Regulations exist at federal, state, and regional levels with regard to energy and include:
a) Federal Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) Standards b) Federal Energy Independence and Security Act
c) California Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24, Part 6) d) California Green Building Standards (Title 24, Part 11) e) California's Renewable Portfolio Standard
f) Senate Bill 350
g) Senate Bill 100
h) Assembly Bill 32 (California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006) and Senate Bill 32 i) Assembly Bill 1493 (Pavley 1)
j) Executive Order 5-1-07 (California Low Carbon Fuel Standard) k) California Air Resources Board:
1) Advanced Clean Car Regulation
m) Airborne Toxic Control Measure to Limit Diesel -Fueled Commercial Motor Vehicle Idling n) Regulation to Reduce Emissions of Diesel Particulate Matter, Oxides of Nitrogen, and other Criteria Pollutants from In -Use Heavy -Duty Diesel -Fueled Vehicles o) Sustainable Communities Strategy (SB 375)
p) Assembly Bill 758
Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-30
Exhibit 2 264

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
q) Senate Bill 1389
r) California Environmental Quality Act
Checklist Discussion
a), b) Less Than Significant Impact.

The project is the adoption of the City of Bell Gardens Housing Element 2021-2029 Update. The General Plan Housing Element is a policy document that addresses the housing need in the City; no actual development is proposed as part of the Housing Element. The project would not directly result in the approval of any physical improvements. Therefore, no direct consumption of energy will occur. Inasmuch as Housing Element could indirectly result in residential development and improvement, such development would be infill development on sites that currently consume energy. In general, infill and redevelopment results in more efficient consumption of electrical and natural gas energy as new structures would be constructed in accordance with current energy regulations, such as Title 24 standards and applicable CALGreen requirements which are stricter than previous, earlier regulations.

The City has adopted a Green Building Standards Code, which introduces sustainable construction practices in planning, design, energy, resource and water efficiency, material conservation and environmental quality. Policies and programs of this Housing Element would encourage and facilitate the redevelopment of underutilized residential and manufacturing sites within the City, including along primary transit corridors and some sites are near commercial uses. Residential development that is both pedestrian- and transit -oriented conserves energy by reducing the number of vehicular trips and efficient use of land and construction materials.

Furthermore, in accordance with state, regional, and local plans and polices, infill development sites including those located in proximityto transit, would reduce vehicle miles traveled resulting in a reduction in the consumption of petroleum -based fuels. Therefore, future development would not be expected to consume energy in wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary way. As such, adoption of the Housing Element 2021-2029 would not conflict with or obstruct plans for renewable energy or energy efficiency.

Accordingly, impacts would be less than significant.

Mitigation Measures
None required.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-31
Exhibit 2 265

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Less Than
Potentially Significant Less Than No
Significant Impact with Significant
Impact Mitigation Impact Impact
Incorporated

7. GEOLOGY AND SOILS. Would the project:
a) Directly or indirectly cause 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?
ii) Strong seismic ground shaking?
❑
❑
®
❑
iii) Seismic -related ground failure, including
❑
❑
®
❑
liquefaction?
iv) Landslides?
❑
❑
❑
b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of
❑
❑
®
❑
topsoil?
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?
d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table
18-1-B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating
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❑
®
❑
substantial direct or indirect risks to life or property? e) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the
use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater
❑
❑
❑
disposal systems where sewers are not available for
the disposal of wastewater?
f) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique
paleontological resource or site or unique geologic
❑
❑
®
❑
feature?
Environmental Setting
Faulting and Seismicity
There are no major fault zones located within the City of Bell Gardens. However, ther are several faults within the region that could have an impact on the City. The nearest faults to the City are the Newport - Inglewood and the Whittier -Elsinore Faults. Other potentially active faults near the City include the Norwalk, Raymond, Santa Monica, Sierra Madre, Verdugo, and Palos Verdes Fault Zones. The San Andreas Fault is approximately 66 miles northeast of the City, and is considered the most seismically active fault Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-32
Exhibit 2 266

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
in the southern California region. These faults are all close enough or expected to generate strong enough shaking that could affect the City. However, the level of seismicity in Bell Gardens, both as to maximum credible earthquake intensity and likely earthquake occurrences, is the same as for the rest of the Los Angeles Basin.

The City is not at significant hazard from surface rupture as the nearest fault is the Newport -Inglewood, which is 6 miles from the City.

Terrain and Soil Conditions
The City is relatively flat; therefore, the risk of landsliding is low. The City is located on alluvial soils deposited by the nearby Los Angeles River before it was channelized. The City is underlain by late Holocene alluvium consisting of silt, gravel, sand, and clay. These soils are considered susceptible to liquefaction. Additionally, groundwater is relatively shallow under the City. Therefore, the City is at high to moderate risk for liquefaction.

Paleontological Resources
As stated in the City's General Plan, the Los Angeles County Museum of Natural History has indicated that the City of Bell Gardens has a low potential and sensitivity for paleontological resources.

Regulatory Setting
Regulations exist at state and local levels with regard to geology and soils and include:
a) California Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act b) California Seismic Hazards Mapping Act
c) California Building Code
d) Bell Gardens Building Code
e) Bell Gardens General Plan Safety Element
Checklist Discussion
a.i-ii) Less Than Significant Impact.

Indirect impacts could occur through potential future development. The Housing Element includes an inventory of sites that are adequate to accommodate the City's assigned share of regional housing need, but it does not propose development projects. As all areas of the City are essentially built -out, all future development would be infill and/or replacement of existing uses.

As southern California is seismically active, potential impacts associated with seismic hazards, including rupture of a fault, strong seismic shaking and seismic -related ground failure currently exist. Earthquakes that could affect the City would most likely originate from the Newport -Inglewood, Whittier -Elsinore, or San Andreas Fault Zones. These faults are close enough in proximity or expected to generate strong Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-33
Exhibit 2 267

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
enough shaking that could affect the City. As future development would only occur on sites currently or previously developed, impacts resulting from potential construction would be the same as under current conditions.

The General Plan addresses geology and soils in the Safety Element, and the City has adopted the California Building Code that includes provisions for construction in seismically active areas, and on different types of soils. The level of seismicity in Bell Gardens, both as to maximum credible earthquake intensity and likely earthquake occurrences, is approximately the same as for the Los Angeles Basin.

Adherence to regulatory codes, such as Uniform Building Code (UBC) and California Building Code (CBC), would ensure that all new development would be built to adequately withstand strong seismic ground shaking through proper engineering and design. Depending on location and scope, may be required to prepare geologic reports to address potential geologic impacts associated with the development of the site. The City ensures compliance with development requirements at the time of building permits are issued.

Neither adoption of the Housing Element update nor any future development within the urban/developed core would result in potential impacts associated with seismic hazards that don't currently exist.

Therefore, impacts related to geology and soil, such as faulting, groundshaking, and soil instability would be less than significant.
a.iii) Less than Significant Impact.

Strong seismic ground shaking could result in liquefaction of poorly consolidated and saturated soils.

Liquefaction occurs when water -saturated sediments are subjected to extended periods of shaking. The Safety Element of the Bell Gardens General Plan states that groundwater levels beneath the City range between 10 to 30 feet deep and have historically gotten lower as more ground water is pumped. Although the Housing Element itself does not propose, permit nor authorize any development, meeting the required housing needs would require future development. Adherence to regulatory codes, such as UBC and CBC, would ensure new structures be built to adequately withstand liquefaction or ground failure associated with strong seismic ground shaking through proper engineering and design. This would limit the potential impact to less than significant.
a. iv) No Impact.

The project would not result in the approval of any physical improvements. The City is relatively flat, therefore, the sites are all located in areas that are predominately flat. Therefore, the potential for seismically -induced landslides to occur is low. Though landslides in the urban area are unlikely, future development in the City would be required to adhere to all applicable UBC and CBC standards therefore, therefore there would be no impact.
b) Less than Significant Impact.

The proposed project is the adoption of the Housing Element update which in and of itself does not authorize any future development. Moreover, soil erosion or loss of topsoil would generally not occur as the City is primarily built out. No specific development is proposed, and no changes to policies resulting in increased erosion would occur. Continued adherence to the standards of the existing CBC and compliance with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit and Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) requirements, as well as implementation of best management Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-34
Exhibit 2 268

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
practices, would limit impacts related to soil erosion. Additionally, all future development would be required to implement Best Management Practices (BMPs) for construction activities as specified by the California Storm Water Best Management Practices Handbook and/or the City's Storm Water BMP Manual. The BMPs include measures guiding the management and operation of construction sites to control and minimize the volume of surface runoff. These measures address procedures for controlling erosion and sedimentation and managing all aspects of the construction process. All development projects must comply with all City, state, and federal standards pertaining to stormwater run-off and erosion. As such, impacts would be less than significant related to erosion. c), d) Less than Significant Impact.

The project is the adoption of the City of Bell Gardens Housing Element 2021-2029 Update. The General Plan Housing Element is a policy document that addresses the housing need in the City; no actual development is proposed as part of the Housing Element Update. The project would not result in the approval of any physical improvements. New developments would be located on sites that have already been developed. It is unlikely that a new structure on a previously or currently occupied site designated for urban use would experience unstable conditions that were not previously encountered. Future risks would be similar those that currently exist. Additionally, proper engineering and adherence to required building standards, such as the UBC and CBC should ensure that impacts would be less than significant. e) No Impact.

The opportunity sites identified for potential future development supported by the Housing Element are all located within urban sites within the City. The City, including the opportunity sites are served by existing sewer infrastructure. No septic tanks would be required and no impact would occur. f) 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 is proposed as part of the Housing Element. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, impact paleontological resources. Future development would be constructed on infill sites or other sites that are currently occupied with structures and have previously been graded. Although future development would not likely disturb paleontological resources, geotechnical evaluations should be conducted if redevelopment or construction would require deeper excavation than current conditions. As such, impacts would be less than significant.

Mitigation Measures
None required.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-35
Exhibit 2 269

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Less Than
Potentially
Significant
Less Than
No
Significant
Impact with
Significant
Impact
Impact
Mitigation
Impact
Incorporated

8. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS. Would the project:
a) Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either
directly or indirectly, that may have a significant
❑
❑
®
❑
impact on the environment?
b) Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions
❑
❑
®
❑
of greenhouse gases?
Environmental Setting
Global temperatures are moderated by naturally occurring atmospheric gases. These gases are commonly referred to as greenhouse gases (GHGs) because they function like a greenhouse, allowing solar radiation (sunlight) into the Earth's atmosphere but prevent heat from escaping, thus warming the Earth's atmosphere. GHGs, as defined under California's Assembly Bill (AB) 32, include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), perfluorocarbons (PFCs), and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6). GHGs are emitted by natural processes and human (anthropogenic) activities.

Anthropogenic GHG emissions are primarily associated with (1) the burning of fossil fuels during motorized transport, electricity generation, natural gas consumption, industrial activity, manufacturing, and other activities; (2) deforestation; (3) agricultural activity; and (4) solid waste decomposition. GHG emissions from human activities are the most significant driver of observed climate change since the mid- 20th century.' Global climate change refers to changes in average climatic conditions over the entire Earth, including temperature, wind patterns, precipitation, and storms.

Regulatory Setting
Regulations exist at federal, state, regional, and local levels with regard to GHGs and include:
• Federal Clean Air Act
• Light Duty Vehicle Greenhouse Gas Emissions Standards and Corporate Average Fuel Economy Standards
• California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 6
• California Green Building Standards Code
• Executive Order 5-3-05
• Assembly Bill 32 — Global Warming Solution Act of 2006 • Senate Bill 375
• Senate Bill 743
• Senate Bill 97
s United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, Climate Change 2013: The Physical Science Basis, Working Group 1 Contribution to the Fifth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, 2013.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-36
Exhibit 2 270

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
• Executive Order B-30-15
• Senate Bill 32 and Assembly Bill 197
• Assembly Bill 1493 —Vehicular Emissions of Greenhouse Gases • Assembly Bill 341
• Executive Order 5-01-07
• Senate Bill 350
• Senate Bill 100
• California Air Resources Board: Scoping Plan
Checklist Discussion
a) Less Than Significant Impact.

The project is the adoption of the City of Bell Gardens Housing Element 2021-2029 Update. The General Plan Housing Element is a policy document that addresses the housing need in the City; no actual development is proposed as part of the Housing Element. The project would not result in the approval of any physical improvements. The Housing Element includes an inventory of sites that are adequate to accommodate the City's assigned share of regional housing need, but it does not propose development projects. Inasmuch as Housing Element could indirectly result in residential development and improvement, the project could result in GHG emissions from construction activities, increased vehicle use, energy consumption, natural gas combustion, water usage (i.e., water transport energy consumption), and other building sources. Such emissions would incrementally contribute to the global GHG levels.

However, since the project would not directly result in the approval of any physical improvements, no direct generation of greenhouse gases would occur. Inasmuch as Housing Element could indirectly result in residential development and improvement, such development would be infill development on sites that currently generate greenhouse gases. In general, infill and redevelopment results in fewer greenhouse gases as new structures would be constructed in accordance with current energy regulations, such as Title 24 standards and applicable CALGreen requirements which are stricter than previous, earlier regulations.

The City adopted a Green Building Code, which introduces sustainable construction practices in planning, design, energy, resource and water efficiency, material conservation and environmental quality.

Policies and programs of this Housing Element would encourage and facilitate the redevelopment of underutilized residential and manufacturing sites within the City, including along primarytransit corridors and some sites are near commercial uses. Residential development that is both pedestrian- and transit - oriented reduces greenhouse gas emissions by reducing the number of vehicular trips, vehicle miles traveled, and efficiently using land and construction materials.

Accordingly, future residential development supported bythe Housing Element Update would be required to implement policies and programs that reduce GHG emissions through more energy efficient residential buildings sited proximate to transit opportunities. Therefore, the project would not generate significant greenhouse gas emissions or conflict with greenhouse gas plans and impacts would be less than significant.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-37
Exhibit 2 271

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
b) Less Than Significant Impact.

The Housing Element would not have the potential to conflict with any applicable plan, policy or regulation of an agency adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of GHGs. The Housing Element's consistency with applicable plans is discussed below.

CARE Scoping Plan Consistency
In November 2017, CARB released the 2017 Scoping Plan. This Scoping Plan incorporates, coordinates, and leverages many existing and ongoing efforts and identifies new policies and actions to accomplish the State's climate goals, and includes a description of a suite of specific actions to meet the State's 2030 GHG limit. In addition, Chapter 4 provides a broader description of the many actions and proposals being explored across the sectors, including the natural resources sector, to achieve the State's mid and long- term climate goals.

Guided by legislative direction, the actions identified in the 2017 Scoping Plan reduce overall GHG emissions in California and deliver policy signals that will continue to drive investment and certainty in a low carbon economy. The 2017 Scoping Plan builds upon the successful framework established by the Initial Scoping Plan and First Update, while identifying new, technologically feasible, and cost-effective strategies to ensure that California meets its GHG reduction targets in a way that promotes and rewards innovation, continues to foster economic growth, and delivers improvements to the environment and public health, including in disadvantaged communities. The Plan includes policies to require direct GHG reductions at some of the State's largest stationary sources and mobile sources. These policies include the use of lower GHG fuels, efficiency regulations, and the Cap -and Trade Program, which constrains and reduces emissions at covered sources.

As the latest, 2017 Scoping Plan builds upon previous versions. Project consistency with applicable strategies of both the 2008 and 2017 Plan are assessed in Table 10, Consistency with CARE 2008 and 2017 Scoping Plan Policies and Measures. As discussed below, the future development accommodated in the Housing Element is consistent with the applicable strategies of the CARB Scoping Plan.

Table 10
Consistency with CARE 2208 and 2017 Scoping Plan Policies and Measures 2008 Scoping Plan Measures to Reduce Greenhouse
Gas Emissions
Project Compliance with Measure
California Light -Duty Vehicle Greenhouse Gas
Consistent. These are CARB enforced standards;
Standards — Implement adopted standards and
vehicles that access the future development sites of
planned second phase of the program. Align zero-
the Housing Element that are required to comply with
emission vehicle, alternative and renewable fuel and
the standards will comply with the strategy.
vehicle technology programs with long-term climate
change goals.

Energy Efficiency— Maximize energy efficiency
Consistent. The future development projects
building and appliance standards; pursue additional
accommodated under the Housing Element will be
efficiency including new technologies, policy, and
required to comply with the current Title 24
implementation mechanisms. Pursue comparable
standards.
investment in energy efficiency from all retail
providers of electricity in California.

Low Carbon Fuel Standard — Develop and adopt the
Consistent. These are CARB enforced standards;
Low Carbon Fuel Standard.
vehicles that access the future development sites of
Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-38
Exhibit 2 272

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Table 10
Consistency with CARE 2208 and 2017 Scoping Plan Policies and Measures 2008 Scoping Plan Measures to Reduce Greenhouse
Gas Emissions
Project Compliance with Measure
the Housing Element that are required to comply with
the standards will comply with the strategy.

Vehicle Efficiency Measures— Implement light -duty
Consistent. These are CARB enforced standards;
vehicle efficiency measures.
vehicles that access the future development sites of
the Housing Element that are required to comply with
the standards will comply with the strategy.

Medium/Heavy-Duty Vehicles —Adopt medium and
Consistent. These are CARB enforced standards;
heavy-duty vehicle efficiency measures.
vehicles that access the future development sites of
the Housing Element that are required to comply with
the standards will comply with the strategy.

Green Building Strategy — Expand the use of green
Consistent. The California Green Building Standards
building practices to reduce the carbon footprint of
Code (proposed Part 11, Title 24) was adopted as part
California's new and existing inventory of buildings.
of the California Building Standards Code in the CCR.

Part 11 establishes voluntary standards, that are
mandatory in the 2019 edition of the Code, on
planning and design for sustainable site development,
energy efficiency (in excess of the California Energy
Code requirements), water conservation, material
conservation, and internal air contaminants. The
future development accommodated in the Housing
Element will be subject to these mandatory standards.

High Global Warming Potential Gases —Adopt
Consistent. CARB identified five measures that reduce
measures to reduce high global warming potential
HFC emissions from vehicular and commercial
gases.
refrigeration systems; vehicles that access the future
development sites of the Housing Element that are
required to comply with the measures will comply
with the strategy.

Recycling and Waste — Reduce methane emissions at
Consistent. The state is currently developing a
landfills. Increase waste diversion, composting, and
regulation to reduce methane emissions from
commercial recycling. Move toward zero -waste.
municipal solid waste landfills. The future
development of the Housing Element will be required
to comply with City programs and regulations related
to solid waste, which comply, with the 75 percent
reduction required by 2020 per AB 341.

Water — Continue efficiency programs and use
Consistent. The future development projects
cleaner energy sources to move and treat water.
accommodated under the Housing Element will be
required to comply with all applicable City ordinances
and CAL Green requirements.
2017 Scoping Plan Recommended Actions to Reduce
Project Compliance with Recommended Action
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Implement Mobile Source Strategy: Further increase
Consistent. These are CARB enforced standards;
GHG stringency on all light -duty vehicles beyond
vehicles that access the future development sites of
existing Advanced Clean Car regulations.
the Housing Element that are required to comply with
the standards will comply with the strategy.

Implement Mobile Source Strategy: At least 1.5
Consistent. These are CARB enforced standards;
million zero emission and plug-in hybrid light -duty
vehicles that access the future development sites of
electric vehicles by 2025 and at least 4.2 million zero Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-39
Exhibit 2 273

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Table 10
Consistencv with CARE 2208 and 2017 Scopine Plan Policies and Measures 2008 Scoping Plan Measures to Reduce Greenhouse
Gas Emissions
Project Compliance with Measure
emission and plug-in hybrid light -duty electric
the Housing Element that are required to comply with
vehicles by 2030.
the standards will comply with the strategy.

Implement Mobile Source Strategy: Innovative Clean
Consistent. These are CARB enforced standards;
Transit: Transition to a suite of to -be -determined
vehicles that access the future development sites of
innovative clean transit options. Assumed 20 percent
the Housing Element that are required to comply with
of new urban buses purchased beginning in 2018 will
the standards will comply with the strategy.
be zero emission buses with the penetration of zero -
emission technology ramped up to 100 percent of
new sales in 2030. Also, new natural gas buses,
starting in 2018, and diesel buses, starting in 2020,
meet the optional heavy-duty low-NOX standard.

Implement Mobile Source Strategy: Last Mile
Consistent. These are CARB enforced standards;
Delivery: New regulation that would result in the use
vehicles that access the future development sites of
of low NOX or cleaner engines and the deployment of
the Housing Element that are required to comply with
increasing numbers of zero -emission trucks primarily
the standards will comply with the strategy.
for class 3-7 last mile delivery trucks in California. This measure assumes ZEVs comprise 2.5 percent of new
Class 3-7 truck sales in local fleets starting in 2020, increasing to 10 percent in 2025 and remaining flat
through 2030.

Implement SB 350 by 2030: Establish annual targets
Consistent. The future development projects
for statewide energy efficiency savings and demand
accommodated under the Housing Element will be
reduction that will achieve a cumulative doubling of
required to comply with the current Title 24
statewide energy efficiency savings in electricity and
standards.
natural gas end uses by 2030.

By 2019, develop regulations and programs to
Consistent. The future development of the Housing
support organic waste landfill reduction goals in the
Element will be required to comply with City programs
SLCP and SB 1383.
and regulations related to solid waste, which comply,
with the 75 percent reduction required by 2020 per
AB 341.

Notes:
1 Source: CARB Scoping Plan (2008 and 2017)
Executive Orders S-03-05 and 8-30-15
The future development accommodated under the Housing Element is consistent with the State's Executive Orders S-3-05 and B-30-15, which are orders from the State's Executive Branch for the purpose of reducing GHG emissions. These strategies call for developing more efficient land -use patterns to match population increases, workforce, and socioeconomic needs for the full spectrum of the population. The project includes elements of smart land use as it is the re -zoning and re -designation of sites within the City of Bell Gardens in order to match forecasted population growth within the City. Furthermore, the sites identified for future development within the Housing Element are well -served by transportation infrastructure.

Although the emissions levels of the future development accommodated under the Housing Element in 2050 cannot be reliably quantified, statewide efforts are underway to facilitate the State's achievement of that goal and it is reasonable to expect the emissions profile of the proposed uses would only decline Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-40
Exhibit 2 274

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
as the regulatory initiatives identified by ARB in the First Update are implemented, and other technological innovations occur. As such, given the reasonably anticipated decline in emissions once fully constructed and operational, the future development accommodated under the Housing Element is consistent with the Executive Order's horizon -year goal.

Many of the emission reduction strategies recommended by ARB would serve to reduce the project's emissions level to the extent applicable by law and help lay the foundation "...for establishing a broad framework for continued emission reductions beyond 2020, on the path to 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050," as called for in ARB's First Update to the AB 32 Scoping Plan. As such, the project's emissions trajectory is expected to follow a declining trend, consistent with the 2030 and 2050 targets and Executive Order 5-3-05 and B-30-15.

SCAG's RTP/SCS
SCAG's Regional Council approved and fully adopted the Connect SoCal (2020-2045 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy) and the addendum to the Connect SoCal Program Environmental Impact Report in September 2020. Connect SoCal is a long-range visioning plan that builds upon and expands land use and transportation strategies established over several planning cycles to increase mobility options and achieve a more sustainable growth pattern. Connect SoCal is supported by a combination of transportation and land use strategies that help the region achieve state greenhouse gas emission reduction goals and federal Clean Air Act requirements, preserve open space areas, improve public health and roadway safety, support our vital goods movement industry and utilize resources more efficiently. By integrating the Forecasted Development Pattern with a suite of financially constrained transportation investments, Connect SoCal can reach the regional target of reducing greenhouse gases, or GHGs, from autos and light -duty trucks by 8 percent per capita by 2020, and 19 percent by 2035 (compared to 2005 levels).

The proposed project is that of the City of Bell Gardens Housing Element and requires amending the City's zoning designations on some proposed Housing Element opportunity sites, which requires changes to the City's Zoning Map. The increased residential units accommodated under the Housing Element is in response to SCAG developing a Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) for the City of Bell Gardens for the City's 2021-2029 Housing Element planning period. As the City of Bell Gardens does not currently have an adequate number of sites with zoning in place to meet the RHNA requirements, the City identified possible housing sites to address Bell Gardens' RHNA obligation. These identified sites are the future development analyzed in this report and identified in the Housing Element.

The future sites for rezoning identified in the Housing Element are all located in developed areas with existing roadway networks and near existing transit stops. Furthermore, the sites are located proximate to other surrounding existing residential, commercial, and institutional uses. Therefore, as the increased residential density of the future development of the Housing Element is in response to SCAG forecasts and the future development would be located in developed areas in proximity to existing transportation networks, the Housing Element is considered to be consistent with the measures identified in the SCAG RTP/SCS.

Therefore, the Housing Element would not conflict with any applicable plan, policy or regulation of an agency adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases. Furthermore, the future development accommodated in the Housing Element will be required to comply with applicable Green Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-41
Exhibit 2 275

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Building Standards and City of Bell Gardens' policies regarding sustainability (as dictated by the City's General Plan). Impacts would be less than significant.

Mitigation Measures
None required.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-42
Exhibit 2 276

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact

9. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS. Would the project:
a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment through the routine transport, use, or
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®
❑
disposal of hazardous materials?
b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment through reasonable foreseeable upset
❑
❑
®
❑
and accident conditions involving the release of
hazardous materials into the environment?
c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or
acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste
❑
❑
®
❑
within one -quarter mile of an existing or proposed
school?
d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of
hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to
Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result,
❑
❑
®
❑
would it create a significant hazard to the public or
the environment?
e) For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within
2 miles or a public airport or public use airport,
❑
❑
❑
would the project result in a safety hazard or
excessive noise for people residing or working in the
project area?
f) Impair implementation of or physically interfere
with an adopted emergency response plan or
❑
❑
❑
emergency evacuation plan?
g) Expose people or structures, either directly or
indirectly, to a significant risk of loss, injury, or death ❑
❑
❑
involving wildland fires?
Environmental Setting
Hazardous Materials
Hazardous materials encompass a wide range of substances, some of which are naturally occurring and some of which are man-made. Examples of hazardous materials include pesticides, herbicides, petroleum products, metals (e.g., lead, mercury, arsenic), asbestos, and chemical compounds used in manufacturing.

Hazardous materials are used for a variety of purposes, including service industries, various small businesses, medical uses, schools, and households. Many chemicals used in household cleaning, construction, dry cleaning, film processing, landscaping, and automotive maintenance and repair are considered hazardous. Small -quantity hazardous waste generators include facilities such as automotive Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-43
Exhibit 2 277

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
repair, dry cleaners, and medical offices. Hazardous materials could pose a substantial present or future hazard to human health or the environment when improperly handled, disposed, or otherwise managed. r)f-hPr i4n7nr/If
According to CAL FIRE, the City of Bell Gardens is not located in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone.

Regulatory Setting
Regulations exist at federal, state, and local levels with regard to hazards and hazardous materials and include:
• Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act • Resources Conservation and Recovery Act
• Hazardous Materials Transportation Act
• Federal Aviation Regulations Part 77
• California Code of Regulations
• Hazardous Materials Release Response Plans and inventory Act • Emergency Response to Hazardous Materials Incidents
• California Government Code Section 65962.5
• Emergency Response to Hazardous Materials Incidents
• Los Angeles County Multi -Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan • City of Bell Gardens Zoning Code
Checklist Discussion
a), b), c), d) Less Than Significant Impact.

The project is the adoption of the City of Bell Gardens Housing Element 2021-2029. The Housing Element is a policy -level document that encourages the provision of a range of housing types and affordability levels and does not include specific development proposals or development entitlements. However, future development of residential units constructed consistent with the General Plan could create a significant hazard to future residents through the exposure to the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials into the environment; through the exposure to reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment; through the exposure of handling or emission of hazardous materials, or by locating residential development on a site included on a list pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5.

The project would not result in the approval of any physical improvements. The Housing Element includes an inventory of sites that are adequate to accommodate the City's assigned share of regional housing need, but it does not propose development projects. Inasmuch as the Housing Element Update could indirectly result in residential development and improvement, each potential development site would be evaluated at the time of development proposal in accordance with the requirements of CEQA. As hazardous substances have properties that, above certain thresholds, ar-e toxic to humans and/or the ecosystem, multiple regulatory programs in place are designed to minimize the chance for unintended releases and/or exposures to occur. The City of Bell Gardens and other state and local agencies, such as the Department of Toxic Substances Control and San Diego County Environmental Health and Quality Department (Hazardous Materials Division), regulate hazardous materials in coordination with one Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-44
Exhibit 2 278

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
another. The County enforces Title 26, Division 6, California Highway Patrol, of the California Code of Regulations (CCR) to reduce impacts associated with accidental release from the transportation of hazardous materials on roads in Los Angeles County, and the potential for an increased demand for incident emergency response.

Other programs establish remediation requirements for sites where contamination has occurred. If development sites are determined to contain contaminants, proper remediation will be required in accordance with these regulatory programs. Furthermore, the types of hazardous materials used, stored, and generated by residential uses consist of typical household cleaners, solvents, and fuel waste oils, etc., which are well regulated by federal and state laws. Therefore, adoption of the Housing Element 2021- 2029 would not create a significant hazard to the public or the environment with regard to the handling, use, storage, release, or emissions of hazardous materials, including in proximity to schools. Accordingly, impacts related to hazardous materials would be less than significant. e) No Impact.

Compton Woodley Airport is located approximately 7.5 miles from the City. Therefore, there would be no impact related to airport safety hazards and excessive noise potentially resulting from future development supported by the Housing Element.
f) No Impact.

As stated in the General Plan Safety Element, the City has a Multi -Hazard Functional Plan that outlines responsibilities and procedures to follow in the event of an emergency or City-wide disaster. Future construction and development activities that may indirectly occur as a result of the project, would be performed consistent with City engineering and fire safety standards, and are not expected to physically interfere with the Multi -Hazard Functional Plan. Therefore, there would be no impact.

Potential future residential and/or mixed -use development supported by the Housing Element would not interfere with adopted emergency response or evacuation plan because such projects are not anticipated to alter street locations or access. All new development in the City is required to comply with existing fire codes and ordinances regarding emergency access, such as widths, surfaces, vertical clearance, brush clearance, and allowable grades. None of the projects would result in such an increase in population on the site that traffic would impede evacuation routes. Therefore, adoption of the Housing Element 2021- 2029 Update would not impede or conflict with any adopted emergency response or evacuation plans and the project would have no impact on emergency response or evacuation plans. g) No Impact.

According to CAL FIRE, the City of Bell Gardens is not located in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone.

Therefore, none of the Housing Element sites are located within the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone.

The Housing Element sites would not be subject to any more risk than other development in the City not located within a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. Therefore, there would be no impact related to wildfire.

Mitigation Measures
None required.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-45
Exhibit 2 279

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Less Than
Potentially Significant Less Than No
Significant Impact with Significant
Impact Mitigation Impact Impact
Incorporated

10. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY. Would the project:
a) Violate any water quality standards or waste
discharge requirements or otherwise substantially
❑
❑
®
❑
degrade surface or groundwater quality?
b) Substantially decrease groundwater supplies or
interfere substantially with groundwater recharge
❑
❑
®
❑
such that the project may impede sustainable
groundwater management of the basin?
c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of
the course of a stream or river or through the
addition of impervious surfaces, in a manner which
would:
i) result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off- ❑
❑
®
❑
site?
ii) substantially increase the rate or amount of
surface runoff in a manner which would result in
❑
❑
®
❑
flooding on- or off -site?
iii) 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?
iv) impede or redirect flood flows?
❑
❑
®
❑
d) In flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche zones, risk
❑
❑
®
❑
release of pollutants due to project inundation?
e) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of a water
quality control plan or sustainable groundwater
❑
❑
®
❑
management plan?
Environmental Setting
Groundwater
The City is located within the Central Groundwater Basin. Natural recharge to the Central Basin includes surface infiltration of precipitation and applied water (such as landscape irrigation), subsurface inflow from the surrounding mountains (referred to as mountain -front recharge), through the Los Angeles and Whittier Narrows and along the boundary with the Orange County Basin, and through stormwater percolation at the spreading grounds and unlined portions of rivers. Groundwater in the Central Basin is recharged via surface spreading at the Whittier Narrows Dam, Montebello Forebay Spreading Grounds (MFSG), which consists of the Rio Hondo Spreading Grounds and San Gabriel Coastal Spreading Grounds, Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-46
Exhibit 2 280

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
infiltration in the unlined portions of the Lower San Gabriel River, and via direct injection at the Alamitos Barrier Project. Sources of artificial recharge include recycled water, imported water, and stormwater.

Surface Water
The City is bounded by the Rio Hondo River, a concrete lined channel, to the east. The western edge of the City is bounded by 1-710, with the concrete -lined Los Angeles River further west. One area of the City is shown as Freshwater Emergent Wetland and Freshwater Pond on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Wetlands Inventory. This area is located in the northeastern area of the City and includes an arm of the Rio Hondo Coastal Spreading Grounds. The Rio Hondo Coastal Spreading Grounds serves as a water storage/groundwater recharge facility that retains and conserves local, imported, and reclaimed water to augment groundwater recharge in the groundwater basin.

Flooding
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is mandated by the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 and the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 to evaluate flood hazards and provide Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMS) for local and regional planners to promote sound land use and floodplain development. Further, the Flood Disaster Protection Act requires owners of all structures in identified Special Flood Hazard Areas to purchase and maintain flood insurance as a condition of receiving Federal or federally related financial assistance, such as mortgage loans from federally insured lending institutions. The National Flood Insurance Reform Act of 1994 further strengthened the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) by providing a grant program for State and communityflood mitigation projects.

The act also established a system (Community Rating System - CRS) for crediting communities that implement measures to protect the natural and beneficial functions of their floodplains, as well as managing the erosion hazard.

Bell Gardens is located within Zone X, as identified on the FIRM. Zone X is areas of moderate or minimal hazard from the principal source of flood in the area.

Regulatory Setting
Regulations exist at federal, state, regional, and local levels with regard to hydrology and water quality and include:
• Clean Water Act/National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Requirements • National Flood Insurance Program
• NPDES Construction General Permit
• NPDES Groundwater Permit
• NPDES Municipal Permit
• Porter -Cologne Water Quality Control Act
• Water Quality Control Plan for the San Diego Basin
• Los Angeles County Multi -Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan • City of Bell Gardens Zoning Code
Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-47
Exhibit 2 281

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Checklist Discussion
a) Less Than Significant Impact.

The General Plan Housing Element is a policy document that addresses the housing need in the City; no actual development or rezoning/redesignation of land is proposed as part of the Housing Element. The Housing Element includes an inventory of sites that are adequate to accommodate the City's assigned share of regional housing need, but it does not propose development projects.

Future residential development would either be through replacement, infill or upgrade, no undeveloped areas would be developed. The federal Clean Water Act and California's Porter -Cologne Water Quality Control Act are the primary laws related to water quality. Regulations set forth by the U.S. EPA and the State Water Resources Control Board have been developed to fulfill the requirements of this legislation.

U.S. EPA's regulations include the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit program, which controls sources that discharge pollutants into waters of the United States (e.g., streams, lakes, bays, etc.). These regulations are implemented at the regional level by water quality control boards, which for the Bell Gardens area is the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB).

Proposed projects are required to comply with the City's NPDES permit and local policies and ordinances regarding urban runoff and water quality. In practical terms, the requirements seek to reduce water pollution by both reducing the volume of stormwater runoff and the amount of pollutants that are contained within the runoff. The methods used to achieve these objectives vary from site to site, but can include measures such as a reduction in impervious surfaces, onsite detention facilities, biofiltration swales, settlement/debris basins, etc. Therefore, future development supported by the Housing Element would not violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements or otherwise substantially degrade surface or groundwater quality. As such, impacts would be less than significant. b) Less Than Significant Impact.

The City is located within the Central Groundwater Basin. Water enters the Basin from countless natural and man-made location, including natural recharge and recharge through surface spreading at the Whittier Narrows Dam, Montebello Forebay Spreading Grounds (MFSG), which consists of the Rio Hondo Spreading Grounds and San Gabriel Coastal Spreading Grounds, infiltration in the unlined portions of the Lower San Gabriel River, and via direct injection at the Alamitos Barrier Project.

The City's primary source of water supply is from the Golden State Water Company. Water delivered to customers in the Bell/Bell Gardens System is a blend of groundwater pumped from the Central Groundwater Basin and imported water from the Colorado River Aqueduct and State Water Project.

As the City is largely build -out, future residential development would potentially increase population in the City, but not to the extent that it would increase water demand and decrease groundwater supplies.

Additionally, development would occur on sites previously developed with impervious surfaces.

Therefore, development resulting from the Housing Element would not increase impervious surface area overall, and substantial changes to groundwater infiltration would not occur. Any future site plans would be reviewed by the City to include site -specific design measures that would allow for infiltration as part of erosion and runoff prevention. Future development projects would not contribute to the depletion of groundwater supplies and would not substantially interfere with groundwater recharge. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-48
Exhibit 2 282

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
c) i), ii), iii), iv)Less Than Significant Impact.

The Housing Element Update includes an inventory of sites that are adequate to accommodate the City's assigned share of regional housing need, but it does not propose development projects. As all of the sites would be infill or replacement, it is not likely that any future grading and vegetation removal would could expose soil to erosion during construction activities.

All future development would be required to comply with codes that address stormwater runoff control.

New housing projects would 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 grading regulations and ordinance. As such, development projects are required to implement Best Management Practices (BMPs) for construction activities as specified by the California Storm Water Best Management Practices Handbook, and/or the City's Minimum Best Management Practices and Storm Water BMP Manual. The BMPs include measures guiding the management and operation of construction sites to control and minimize the potential contribution of pollutants to storm runoff from these areas. These measures address procedures for controlling erosion and sedimentation and managing all aspects of the construction process to ensure control of potential water pollution sources. All development projects must comply with all City, state, and federal standards pertaining to stormwater run-off and erosion.

In addition, given that the City is primarily build -out, future residential development would not be expected to result in increased in impervious surface area, substantial changes to drainage patterns, or changes to groundwater infiltration. Accordingly, impacts related to the alteration of drainage patterns would be less than significant.
d) Less than Significant Impact.

The City is located inland and is not located near the Pacific Ocean or near any bodies of water than could create tsunami or seiche. The City is bounded by the Rio Hondo River, a concrete lined channel, to the east. The Rio Hondo River is bounded by levees and does not hold water for extended periods. The western edge of the City is bounded by 1-710, with the concrete -lined Los Angeles River further west.

The City is located within Zone X, as identified on the FIRM. Zone X is areas of moderate or minimal hazard from the principal source of flood in the area. Therefore, the City would only be subject to moderate or minimal risk from flooding. Furthermore, the project is a policy document and does not propose any development nor changes to any existing land use designations. Accordingly, impacts related to the risk from flooding would be less than significant.
e) Less Than Significant Impact.

The project is the adoption of the City of Bell Gardens Housing Element 2021-2029. The project would not result in the approval of any physical improvements. The Housing Element includes an inventory of sites that are adequate to accommodate the City's assigned share of regional housing need, but it does not propose development projects. Inasmuch as Housing Element Update could indirectly result in residential development and improvement, such development would be subject to regulations and policies specifically designed to prevent surface and groundwater water quality and hydrology effects as well as Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-49
Exhibit 2 283

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
prevent flooding. Therefore, future development supported by the Housing Element would not conflict with water quality or groundwater management plans and impacts related to hydrology and water quality would be less than significant.

Mitigation Measures
None required.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-50
Exhibit 2 284

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Less Than
Potentially
Significant
Less Than
No
Significant
Impact with
Significant
Impact
Impact
Mitigation
Impact
Incorporated

11. LAND USE AND PLANNING. Would the project:
a) Physically divide an established community?
❑
❑
❑
b) Cause a significant environmental impact due to a
conflict with any land use plan, policy, or regulation
❑
❑
®
❑
adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an
environmental effect?
Environmental Setting
The City of Bell Gardens has a total land area of 1,536 acres, or 2.4 square miles. The City of Bell Gardens is located in the southern portion of Los Angeles County, approximately 13 miles southeast of the Los Angeles Civic Center. The City is bounded by the City of Commerce on the north, Downey on the east, South Gate on the south, and the Cities of Bell and Cudahy on the west. The City's corporate boundaries are generally delineated by man-made barriers, including the Southern Pacific Railroad to the north, the Rio Hondo River flood control channel to the east, and the Los Angeles River flood control channel and Interstate 710 to the west.

Bell Gardens has over 732.5 acres designated as residential land use, encompassing 59% of the City's total area. Few residential areas have retained their identity as lower density residential areas, despite historic development practices. The majority of residential neighborhoods zoned high -density residential (R-3) are redeveloped as a mix of single-family, duplex, triplex, and multiple -family developments.

Regulatory Setting
Regulations exist at state and local levels with regard to land use and include:
• California Planning and Zoning Law, Government Code Sections 65000 et seq. • Southern California Association of Governments Connect SoCal Plan • City of Bell Gardens General Plan
• City of Bell Gardens Zoning Ordinance
Checklist Discussion
a) No Impact.

Projects with the potential to divide a community include highways, railways, and large building or infrastructure projects that change the street grid. The project is the adoption of the City of Bell Gardens Housing Element 2021-2029. The project would not result in the approval of any physical improvements or development projects. The Housing Element policies guide housing, emphasizing provision of affordable housing and a range of housing types and locations. The Housing Element includes an inventory of sites that are adequate to accommodate the City's assigned share of regional housing need, but it does not propose development projects. Future residential development would be primarily infill both through Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-51
Exhibit 2 285

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
redevelopment of an existing site or the development of higher density mixed use projects. As such, adoption of the Housing Element 2021-2029 would not physically divide an established community and no impact would occur.
b) Less Than Significant Impact.

The project is the adoption of the City of Bell Gardens Housing Element 2021-2029. The project would not result in the approval of any physical improvements and does not propose any changes to the General Plan Land Use Element. As the Housing Element is a mandatory element of the General Plan, it must be consistent with it. The Housing Element includes an inventory of sites that are adequate to accommodate the City's assigned share of regional housing need, but it does not propose development projects.

In order to meet the RHNA, the Housing Element 2021-2029 proposes zoning changes to two parcels, Rezone Site #1, located at 6262 Gage Avenue (APN 6330-018-075) and which would be rezoned from C-3 and R-3 to R-3 and Rezone Site #2, located at 6845 Florence Place (APN 6348-019-028), 6814 Suva Street (APN 6358-019-026) and 6863 Florence Place (APN 6358-019-0060), which would be rezoned from M-1 to R-3. The rezoning of these sites would not require any General Plan Amendments.

The zoning established for these areas provides development standards intended to provide for new development to have similar characteristics (such as mass, bulk, height, and density) as the surrounding areas. Future development would occur on sites already zoned for housing and would follow the City's standard procedures for review, including public notice, environmental review, and consideration of design and neighborhood context. The identified opportunity sites could be developed in the future with or without the Housing Element. New residential development would be required to comply with all applicable plans and regulations including the General Plan and the City's Municipal Code. All development projects are subject to environmental review as appropriate in compliance with CEQA prior to approval. Project and site -specific concerns would be evaluated and addressed as development projects for specific sites are proposed. As such, impacts related to conflicts with land use plans, policies, and regulations would be less than significant.

Mitigation Measures
None required.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-52
Exhibit 2 286

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Less Than
Potentially
Significant
Less Than
No
Significant
Impact with
Significant
Impact
Impact
Mitigation
Impact
Incorporated

12. MINERAL RESOURCES. Would the project:
a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be a 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?
Regulations and responsible agencies exist at the state level with regard to mineral resources and include:
• Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975
• Division of Oil, Gas, and Geothermal Resources
• Division of Mines and Geology
Checklist Discussion
a), b) No Impact.

No portion of the City is delineated as a mineral resource or mineral resource recovery site in the City's General Plan. There are no active mines or mineral resource extraction occurring in the City and all of the Housing Element sites are currently developed with land uses that are not related to mining or mineral extraction. Due to lack of resources available and the urban nature of the City, no impact would occur.

Mitigation Measures
None required.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-53
Exhibit 2 287

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Less Than
Potentially Significant Less Than No
Significant Impact with Significant Impact
Impact Mitigation Impact
Incorporated
1 13. NOISE. Would the project result in:
a) Generation of a substantial temporary or permanent
increase in ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the project in excess of standards established in the local ❑ ❑ general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable
standards of other agencies?
b) Generation of excessive groundborne vibration or ❑ ❑ groundborne noise levels?
c) For a project located within the vicinity of a private airstrip or an airport land use plan or, where such a
plan has not been adopted, within 2 miles of a public ❑ airport or public use airport, expose people residing
or working in the project area to excessive noise
levels?
Noise Fundamentals
❑ ❑
Sound is described in terms of amplitude (i.e., loudness) and frequency (i.e., pitch). The standard unit of sound amplitude measurement is the decibel (dB). The dB scale is a logarithmic scale that describes the physical intensity of the pressure vibrations that make up any sound. The pitch of the sound is related to the frequency of the pressure vibration. Since the human ear is not equally sensitive to a given sound level at all frequencies, a special frequency -dependent rating scale has been devised to relate noise to human sensitivity. The A -weighted dB scale (dBA) provides this compensation by emphasizing frequencies in a manner approximating the sensitivity of the human ear.

Noise, on the other hand, is typically defined as unwanted sound audible at such a level that the sound becomes an undesirable by-product of society's normal day-to-day activities. Sound becomes unwanted when it interferes with normal activities, causes actual physical harm, or results in adverse health effects.

The effects of noise on people can be placed into four general categories:
• Subjective effects (e.g., dissatisfaction, annoyance); • Interference effects (e.g., communication, sleep, and learning interference); • Physiological effects (e.g., startle response); and
• Physical effects (e.g., hearing loss).

The definition of noise as unwanted sound implies that it has an adverse effect, or causes a substantial annoyance, to people and their environment. However, not every unwanted audible sound interferes with normal activities, causes harm, or has adverse health effects. For unwanted audible sound (i.e., noise) to be considered adverse, it must occur with sufficient frequency and at such a level that these adverse impacts are reasonably likely to occur.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-54
Exhibit 2 288

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Vibration Fundamentals
Vibration can result from a source (e.g., train operations, motor vehicles, machinery equipment, etc.) causing the adjacent ground to move and creating vibration waves that propagate through the soil to the foundations of nearby buildings. This effect is referred to as groundborne vibration. The peak particle velocity (PPV) or the root mean square (RMS) velocity is usually used to describe vibration levels. PPV is defined as the maximum instantaneous peak of the vibration level, while RMS is defined as the square root of the average of the squared amplitude of the vibration level. PPV is typically used for evaluating potential building damage, while RMS velocity in decibels (VdB) is typically more suitable for evaluating human response.

Environmental Setting
Noise in Bell Gardens comes from transportation sources, including freeways, arterials, and roadways and non -transportation sources, such as commercial/industrial activities, construction equipment and various community activities. The City is also bounded to the north and south by rail lines, which while not main lines do experience rail traffic. The noise environment in Bell Gardens is dominated by vehicular traffic including vehicular generated noise along Interstate 710 (1-710) and primary and secondary arterials. In addition, a number of other sources contribute to the total noise environment. These noise sources include construction activities, power tools and gardening equipment, loudspeakers, auto repair, radios, children playing and dogs barking.

Regulatory Setting
Various private and public agencies have established noise guidelines and standards to protect citizens from potential hearing damage and other adverse physiological and social effects associated with noise.

Federal, state, regional, and local guidelines include the following:
• Federal Transit Administration and Federal Railroad Administration Standards • Federal Aviation Administration Standards
• California Noise Control Act
• California Code of Regulations
• City of Bell Gardens General Plan
• City of Bell Gardens Municipal Code
Checklist Discussion
a), b) Less Than Significant Impact.

The project is the adoption of the City of Bell Gardens Housing Element 2021-2029. The project would not result in the approval of any physical improvements and does not propose any changes to the General Plan Land Use Element. The Housing Element includes an inventory of sites that are adequate to accommodate the City's assigned share of regional housing need, but it does not propose development projects. As no specific development projects are proposed by the project, no specific noise and vibration impacts can be evaluated. Indirect construction activity associated with future potential development could possibly result in temporary increases in noise levels. All construction activities would continue to be required to comply with the City's noise ordinance and undergo project -level CEQA review to analyze impacts related Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-55
Exhibit 2 289

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
to noise when more specific project details are known. Such compliance would reduce noise levels associated with construction activities.

Noise sources associated with potential future development would include those typical of suburban areas (e.g., mechanical equipment, dogs/pets, landscaping activities, weekly garbage collection, cars parking). These noise sources are typically intermittent and short in duration, and would be comparable to existing sources of noise experienced at surrounding residential uses. As most of the identified opportunity sites are located in established residential and mixed -manufacturing and residential districts with existing noise sources, potential increases would be below established thresholds for consideration of a significant impact.

Temporary construction activities as a result of future development could result in excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise. The exact nature of potential future construction that could occur is not known at this time; thus, construction noise levels cannot be estimated. However, all construction activities would be required to comply with the City's noise ordinance and discretionary projects would undergo project -level CEQA review to analyze impacts related to noise when more specific project details are known. Such compliance would reduce noise groundborne vibration and noise levels associated with construction activities. Impacts would be less than significant. c) No Impact.

Compton Woodley Airport is located approximately 7.5 miles from the City. Therefore, the Housing Element sites would not be exposed to airport noise that is any greater than the rest of Bell Gardens.

There would be no impact related to exposure to excessive noise potentially resulting from future development supported by the Housing Element.

Mitigation Measures.

None required.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-56
Exhibit 2 290

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Less Than
Potentially
Significant
Less Than
No
Significant
Impact with the
Significant
Impact
Impact
Incorporated
Impact
Mitigation

14. POPULATION AND HOUSING. Would the project:
a) Induce substantial unplanned population growth in
an area, either directly (for example, by proposing
new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for
❑
❑
❑
example, through extension of roads or other
infrastructure)?
b) Displace substantial numbers of existing people or
housing, necessitating the construction of
❑
❑
❑
replacement housing elsewhere?
Environmental Setting
From its roots as a ranch and farming community, Bell Gardens has evolved into a vibrant, family -oriented city. By the 1930s, the Bell Gardens area became an important residential area. Similar to most Southern California cities, Bell Gardens experienced a post -World War II housing boom. The defense plants of the 1940s brought prosperity to the region and Bell Gardens became largely developed with single-family homes, bungalow courts, and strip commercial development along major arterials. The dramatic increase in the City's population during the 1960s was due both to an increased average household size and a population growth trend that reflected national trends during that period.

The City was incorporated as a general law city in 1961. At the time of incorporation, the City's population was approximately 27,000. The U.S. Census recorded the City's population at 42,012 persons (as of July 1, 2019), an increase of 0.1%from 2010 to 2019. Los Angeles County as a whole had a population increase of approximately 3.6% during the same time period.

According to the 2018 ACS, the City had a total of 9,877 housing units, with 9,663 units being occupied by households. Between 2010 and 2018, the number of households in the City increased by 8, or 0.1%. By comparison, the City's population increased by 0.9% during this time.

Regulatory Setting
Regulations and plans exist at state, regional, and local levels related to populations and housing and include:
• California Government Code Section 65583 and 655849(a)(1) • Senate Bill 375
• Southern California Association of Governments Connect SoCal • Regional Housing Needs Assessment
Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-57
Exhibit 2 291

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Checklist Discussion
a) No Impact.

The project is the adoption of the City of Bell Gardens Housing Element 2021-2029. The General Plan Housing Element is a policy document that addresses the housing need in the City; no actual development is proposed as part of the Housing Element. The Housing Element contains housing goals intended to encourage housing to meet the City's housing needs. The expectation is that as growth occurs consistent with the existing General Plan, housing would be provided to serve all income levels of the city, including both moderate- and low-income residents. The project would not result in the approval of any physical improvements and does not propose any changes to the General Plan Land Use Element. Although the project does not propose development projects itself, it identifies opportunity sites that are adequate to accommodate up to 503 new housing units.

The City's population in 2019 was 42,012 and SCAG 2016-2040 RTP/SCS Final Growth Forecast byjurisdiction estimates the City to increase to 43,300 by 2035 and 44,000 by 2040. Based on the persons per household rate of 4.4 used by SCAG in the 2016-2040 RTP/SCS Final Growth Forecast, the development of 503 housing units would generate 2,214 new residents for a total of 44,663 residents.

Although the Housing Element would result in slightly higher population than those estimated by SCAG, the increased residential density of the future development of the Housing Element is in response to SCAG RHNA housing numbers distributed for the City. State housing law requires that the RHNA be consistent with the development pattern of the SCS (Connect SoCal) but does not specify any other requirements between the two plans.

Therefore, the Housing Element Update demonstrates that the state -mandated share of housing for the City can be accommodated and is consistent with development levels anticipated by regional and local planning documents. The Housing Element, as a policy document accommodates rather than inducing population growth and no impact would occur.
b) No Impact.

The project is the adoption of the City of Bell Gardens Housing Element 2021-2029. The General Plan Housing Element is a policy document that addresses the housing needs in the City. No actual development is proposed as part of the Housing Element Update. The purpose of Government Code Section 65863 (No Net Loss Law), is to ensure development opportunities remain available throughout the planning period to accommodate a jurisdiction's regional housing need allocation (RHNA), especially for lower- and moderate- income households. Implementing the Housing Element would not result in any displacement. Therefore, no impacts would occur.

Mitigation Measures
None required.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-58
Exhibit 2 292

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact

15. 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?
❑
❑
®
❑
b) Police protection?
❑
❑
®
❑
c) Schools?
❑
❑
®
❑
d) Parks?
❑
❑
®
❑
e) Other public facilities?
❑
❑
®
❑
Environmental Setting
Fire Protection
The City of Bell Gardens is a member of the Los Angeles County Fire Protection District. The Los Angeles County Fire Department provides the City of Bell Gardens with fire suppression and emergency medical services. Fire Station 29, Battalion 3, Division 6 provides its services from one Fire Station strategically located at 7000 Garfield Avenue, within the City boundaries. In addition, the Los Angeles County Fire Department provides for the public's safety by deploying and staffing a variety of emergency response vehicles Air and Wildland, Emergency Medical Services, Fire Prevention, Rescue, Forestry, Health Hazardous Material and Emergency Operations.

Police Protection
The Bell Gardens Police Department provides law enforcement services to residents and businesses in the City of Bell Gardens. The services provided include the following: crime prevention; traffic and congestion control; safety management; emergency response; and, homeland security The Bell Gardens Police Department consists of 84 dedicated professionals including 51 sworn officers, 21 civilian staff and 12 part-time staff. The Police Department is located at 7110 S. Garfield Avenue. The Department provides field services/patrol, a Records Bureau, and oversees a neighborhood watch program.

Schools
Schools in the City are under the Montebello Unified School District. The City has four elementary schools, two intermediate schools, and one high school. The District also has two adult education centers in Bell Gardens.

State Assembly Bill (AB) 2926 authorized school districts to assess all new development a fee to offset. impacts proposed projects might have on the school facilities. Whenever possible, the Districts have requested that developers provide full impact mitigation on development. The establishment of special tax districts, full cost recovery agreements or the provision of relocatable classrooms in lieu of fees are just a few examples of such mitigation measures.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-59
Exhibit 2 293

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Parks
The City has five parks and a golf course that provide a variety of recreation opportunities. Parks include the Bell Gardens John Anson Ford Park (includes the Bell Gardens Sports Complex and Bell Gardens Golf Course), Bell Gardens Veterans Park, Gallant Park, and the Julia Russ Asmus Park, Marlow Park. The City has two senior centers, the Bell Gardens Senior Center and Veterans Park Senior Center. The City has a Youth Center that provides after -school programming, classes, and cultural arts. The City also has a community garden
Other Public Facilities
The City has one public library located at 7110 S. Garfield Avenue. The library is operated by Los Angeles County and is 5,119 square feet in size. The library has space for children and teens, including online homework help and LearningExpress Library. Additionally, the library includes materials in both English and Spanish, public computers for online research, OverDrive eBooks, audiobooks, magazines and newspapers, Freegal music, and Hoopla Streaming services.

Regulatory Setting
Regulations and policies exist the state and local level with regard to public services and include:
• California Mutual Aid Plan
• Senate Bill 50
• Quimby Act and Assembly Bill 1359
• City of Bell Gardens General Plan
Checklist Discussion
a) Less Than Significant Impact.

The Housing Element is a policy document that does not authorize specific development projects.

However, 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 addressing a range of housing needs including affordable housing. While the Housing Element update would not directly introduce new structures, future infill development and redevelopment could continue to occur to accommodate future demands.

The County estimates fire protection needs based on growth as projected in the City's General Plan and Housing Element. It is anticipated that as new development and service levels would be consistent with existing projections. Additionally, as part of the planning and development review process, new residential development projects would be evaluated by the Los Angeles County Fire Department to determine the level of and demand for fire protection services that would be generated by each project.

Therefore, impacts to fire protection services will be less than significant. b) Less Than Significant Impact.

The General Plan Housing Element is a policy document that addresses housing need in the City and does not include any specific development of land. Therefore, adoption would not, in itself, create increased demand for City of Bell Gardens Police Department services. The possible increase in population that may occur from adoption of the Housing Element would not increase the demand for law enforcement Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-60
Exhibit 2 294

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
protection service to the extent that new law enforcement protection facilities would be required. The demand for law enforcement services in Bell Gardens is determined not only by the needs of residents but also by visitors to the City. Future residential development projects, consistent with the City's housing needs would be evaluated by the Bell Gardens Police Department to determine the level of and demand for police protection services that would be generated by each project. Therefore, impacts to fire protection services will be less than significant.
c) Less Than Significant Impact.

Implementation of the programs contained in the Housing Element should result in new housing that addresses the City's RHNA allocation and the City's policies addressing a range of housing needs including affordable housing. Planning for future school facilities is the responsibility of the school districts. The environmental effects of expansion, construction, and operation of additional school facilities would be evaluated by the Montebello Unified School District.

In accordance with state law pursuant to Government Code Section 65996 and SB 50, California legislation holds that an acceptable method of offsetting a project's effect on the adequacy of school facilities is payment of a school impact fee prior to issuance of a building permit. Once paid, the school impact fees would serve as mitigation for any project -related impacts to school facilities. As such, the City is legally prohibited from imposing any additional mitigation related to school facilities, as payment of the school impact fees constitutes full and complete mitigation. Therefore, future development at identified opportunity sites would not result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered school facilities. Impacts related to schools would be less than significant. d) Less Than Significant Impact.

The General Plan Housing Element is a policy document that addresses housing need in the City and does not include any specific development of land. Future development to meet projected population would be infill in established neighborhoods. The City, at its discretion, may require dedication of land and/or payment of fees for the purpose of providing and preserving open space and recreational facilities and improvements in developing areas. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant. e) Less Than Significant Impact.

The General Plan Housing Element is a policy document that addresses housing need in the City and does not include any specific development of land. Library services are provided by Los Angeles County and the library is funded by Los Angeles County. The County would continue to fund the Bell Gardens Library from taxes collected for that purpose. Impacts from potential future development on the library will be less than significant.

Mitigation Measures
None required.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-61
Exhibit 2 295

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Less Than
Potentially Significant Less Than No
Significant Impact with Significant
Impact Mitigation Impact Impact
Incorporated

16. RECREATION. Would the project:
a) 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) Include recreational facilities or require the
construction or expansion of recreational facilities, ❑ ❑ ® ❑ which might have an adverse physical effect on the
environment?
Environmental Setting
Please refer to Environmental Setting above Section 15 — Parks.

Checklist Discussion
a), b) Less Than Significant impact.

Please refer to discussion above Section 15.d — Parks.

Mitigation Measures
None required.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-62
Exhibit 2 296

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact

17. TRANSPORTATION. Would the project:
a) Conflict with a program plan, ordinance or policy
addressing the circulation system, including transit
❑
❑
®
❑
roadway, bicycle and pedestrian facilities?
b) Conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines
❑
❑
®
❑
section 15064.3, subdivision (b)?
c) Substantially increase hazards due to a geometric
design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous
❑
❑
®
❑
intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm
equipment)?
d) Result in inadequate emergency access?
❑
❑
®
❑
Environmental Setting
The City of Bell Gardens has an established system of streets and roadways. Bell Gardens is currently served by a system of major highways, secondary highways, collector streets, and local streets. The arterial roadways through the City of Bell Gardens extend beyond the city boundaries into neighboring cities. Circulation issues and travel patterns, likewise, extend beyond the Bell Gardens city limits. The land use decisions and traffic patterns in these other jurisdictions have the potential to affect the quality of traffic flow and mobility in the City of Bell Gardens, and conversely, traffic conditions and decisions made by the City of Bell Gardens can affect its neighbors. The City is served for transit by Metro, with bus lines on
Regulatory Setting
Regulations and policies exist at the state, regional, and local levels as follows:
• Senate Bill 743
• SCAG Connect SoCal
• City of Bell Gardens General Plan
Checklist Discussion
a), b) Less Than Significant Impact.

The project is the adoption of the City of Bell Gardens Housing Element 2021-2029. The project does not propose any specific development projects as the Housing Element only identifies opportunity sites that are feasible for development. These sites are located on developed lots and would not change the existing street grid if developed.

The majority of the sites are located near or on Gage Avenue and Eastern Avenue proximate to transit.

These locations would be consistent with SCAG Connect SoCal policies that support increasing residential Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-63
Exhibit 2 297

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
concentrations in areas served by transit and implementation of smart growth designed to strengthen the integration of land use and transportation.

Inasmuch as Housing Element Update could indirectly result in residential development and improvement, the development would occur primarily in residential and mixed -use areas of the City designated in the General Plan for housing. Therefore, development within these sites and their associated transportation impacts have already been accounted for in association with the adopted land use plan and Circulation Element. In addition, any future development projects supported by the Housing Element Update would be evaluated at the project proposal stage and subject to the state, regional, and local plans, and the policies therein. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant. c) Less Than Significant Impact.

Future development supported by the Housing Element would result in typical types of traffic associated with residential and mixed -use development (i.e., residents, visitors, and employee commutes). The Housing Element 2021-2029 does not propose any uses that would generate traffic from incompatible uses such as farm equipment. No specific plans for any development projects are proposed at this time; however, the design of roadway improvements, access roads, intersections, and driveways of any future project would be required to adhere to City of Bell Gardens design guidelines and standards and the final design must be approved by the City prior to the issuance of development permits. Accordingly, impacts related to design hazards potentially resulting from future development supported by the Housing Element would be less than significant.
d) Less Than Significant Impact.

As discussed previously, the Housing Element does not include specific development projects, and instead, only provides a framework for the City's anticipated future residential growth and housing demand.

Potential future residential and/or mixed -use development supported by the Housing Element would not interfere with emergency access because such projects are not anticipated to alter street locations or access. All new development in the city is required to comply with existing fire codes and ordinances regarding emergency access, such as widths, surfaces, vertical clearance, brush clearance, and allowable grades. Future access and roadways would be reviewed for consistency with City of Bell Gardens design guidelines and standards and the final design must be approved by the City. Therefore, impacts to emergency access resulting from future development supported by the Housing Element would be less than significant.

Mitigation Measures
None required.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-64
Exhibit 2 298

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Less Than
Significant
Potentially Impact with Less Than
Significant Mitigation Significant No
Impact Incorporated Impact Impact

18. TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES. Consultation with a California Native American tribe that has requested such consultation may assist a lead agency in determining whether the project may adversely affect tribal cultural resources, and if so, how such effects may be avoided or mitigated. Whether or not consultation has been requested, would the project cause a substantial adverse change in a site, feature, place, cultural landscape, sacred place, or object, with cultural value to a California Native American tribe, which is any of the following:
a. Would the project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource, defined in Public Resources Code section 21074 as either a site, feature, place, cultural landscape that is geographically defined in terms of the size and scope of the landscape, sacred place, or object with cultural value to a
California Native American tribe, and that is:
i) Listed or eligible for listing in the California
Register of Historical Resources, or in a local ❑ ❑ ❑
register of historical resources as defined in Public
Resources Code section 5020.1(k), or
ii) A resource determined by the lead agency, in its
discretion and supported by substantial evidence,
to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in
subdivision (c) of Public Resources Code Section
5024.1. In applying the criteria set forth in ❑ ❑ ❑
subdivision (c) of Public Resource Code Section
5024.1, the lead agency shall consider the
significance of the resource to a California Native
American tribe.

Environmental Setting
Assembly Bill 52 (AB 52, Gatto. Native Americans: California Environmental Quality Act) and CEQA Public Resources Code Section 21080.31, subdivisions (b), (d)), requires a lead agency to consult with any California Native American tribe that requests consultation and is traditionally and culturally affiliated with the geographic area of a proposed project.

California Government Code Section 65352.3 (adopted pursuant to the requirements of Senate Bill (SB) 18) requires local governments to contact, refer plans to, and consult with tribal organizations prior to making a decision to adopt or amend a general or specific plan, or to designate open space that includes Native American Cultural Places. The tribal organizations eligible to consult have traditional lands in a local government's jurisdiction, and are identified, upon request, by the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC). As noted in the California Office of Planning and Research's Tribal Consultation Guidelines (2005), "the intent of SB 18 is to provide California Native American tribes an opportunity to participate in local land use decisions at an early planning stage, for the purpose of protecting, or mitigating impacts to cultural places."
Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-65
Exhibit 2 299

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Regulatory Setting
The regulation that guides the consideration and treatment of tribal cultural resources is:
• Assembly Bill 52
• Senate Bill 18
Checklist Discussion
a) i), ii) No Impact.

The Housing Element is a policy document consistent with the General Plan. The project is the adoption of the City of Bell Gardens Housing Element 2021-2029. The project would not result in the approval of any physical improvements and does not propose any changes to the General Plan Land Use Element, to a base designation, or to any physical development standards. The Housing Element will not, in and of itself, result in impacts to tribal cultural resources. Therefore, no impact would occur.

Pursuant to Assembly Bill 52, California tribes now have the ability to establish, through a formal notice letter, a standing request to consult with a lead agency regarding any proposed project subject to CEQA in the geographic area with which the tribe is traditionally and culturally affiliated. The Native American Heritage Commission has authority to verify the tribes' cultural affiliation. A lead agency must provide written notification to requesting tribes on its notice list within 14 days of a decision to undertake a project or a determination that a project application is complete. Notice to the tribes must include a brief project description, the project location, and the lead agency's contact information. A tribe then has 30 days to request consultation. If the tribe does not respond in that period or writes to decline consultation, the lead agency has no further obligation. The City of Bell Gardens typically initiates consultation with the Fernandeno Tataviam Band of Mission Indians, Gabrieleno Tongva, San Gabriel Band of Mission Indians, Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians — Kizh Nation, San Manuel Bank of Mission Indians, and Tejon Indian Tribe and their designated tribal representative for their participation in the Housing Element update and requested information regarding tribal cultural resources within the City on November 11, 2021. None of the Native American Tribes contact have requested consultation.

Mitigation Measures
None required.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-66
Exhibit 2 300

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Less Than
Potentially Significant Less Than No
Significant Impact with Significant
Impact Mitigation Impact Impact
Incorporated

19. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS. Would the project:
a) Require or result in the relocation or construction of new or expanded water, wastewater treatment or
storm water drainage, electric power, natural gas, ❑ ❑ ® ❑ or telecommunications facilities, the construction
or relocation of which could cause significant
environmental effects?
b) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project and reasonably foreseeable future
❑
❑
®
❑
development during normal, dry and multiple dry
years?
c) Result in a determination by the wastewater
treatment provider which serves or may serve the
project that it has adequate capacity to serve the
❑
❑
®
❑
project's projected demand in addition to the
provider's existing commitments?
d) Generate solid waste in excess of State or local
standards, or in excess of the capacity of local
❑
❑
®
❑
infrastructure, or otherwise impair the attainment
of solid waste reduction goals?
e) Comply with federal, state, and local management
and reduction statutes and regulations related to
❑
❑
®
❑
solid waste?
Environmental Setting
Water
The City is served for water supply by the Golden State Water Company. Water delivered to customers in the Bell/Bell Gardens System is a blend of groundwater pumped from the Central Groundwater Basin and imported water from the Colorado River Aqueduct and State Water Project. The City of Bell Gardens and the Golden State Water Company deliver water to residents, businesses and agencies in Bell Gardens. The water system owned by the City of Bell Gardens is contracted and maintained through Liberty Utilities.

Senate Bill 1087 (enacted 2006) requires that water providers develop written policies that grant priority to proposed development that includes housing affordable to lower -income households. The legislation also prohibits water providers from denying or conditioning the approval of development that includes housing affordable to lower income households unless specific written findings are made. The City will provide a copy of the adopted Housing Element to the Golden State Water Company within 30 days of adoption. The City will continue to coordinate with the Golden State Water Company to ensure priority service provision to affordable housing developments.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-67
Exhibit 2 301

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Wastewater
The City has an agreement with the County of Los Angeles for the conveyance, treatment and disposal of wastewater. The City of Bell Gardens is a part of the Consolidated Sewer Maintenance District (CSMD), and currently contracts with Los Angeles County Department of Public Works (LADPW) for their sanitary sewer cleaning and industrial waste enforcement. Additionally, as a part of the CSMD, the City is included in the County's Accumulative Capital Outlay Program (ACO Program). The ACO program identifies, rehabilitates and reconstructs sewer pipes within the CSMD that have structural deficiencies. However, it is still the responsibility of the City to implement recommendations identified herein that are not covered by CSMD.

Senate Bill 1087 also mandates priority sewage collection and treatment service to housing developments providing units affordable to lower -income households.

Solid Waste
Athens Services provides residential solid waste services in the City. These services include trash pickup, recycling, bulky item pickup and bin service, and green waste collection. In 2011, AB 341 was adopted establishing a policy goal that 75% of statewide solid waste should be reduced, recycled, or composted by 2020. This is an expansion of previous state goals to divert 50% of community -wide waste. This measure complies with state goals of waste reduction.

Checklist Discussion
a), b), c), d), e) Less Than Significant Impact.

The Housing Element itself does not propose specific developments nor does it conflict with any other element of the General Plan. Given the built -out character of Bell Gardens, most residential areas are already served with water and wastewater infrastructure and solid waste services. Existing water delivery, wastewater collection infrastructure and solid waste disposal is available to all properties located in the residential sites inventory. Moreover, the City has adequate water and wastewater capacity to accommodate the RHNA of 503 units identified in the Housing Element. Any new development in the City would continue to comply with all provisions of the NPDES program as well as federal, state, and local management and reduction statutes and regulations related to solid waste. The City has established specific standards for potential improvements and facilities required to serve new development, including curb/gutter and drainage facilities, sidewalks, paved streets, landscaping, undergrounding utilities, and water and sewer service. Such improvements are required as a condition of the subdivision map, or if there is no required map, improvements are required as part of the building permit process. Therefore, implementation of the Housing Element would have a less than significant impact.

Mitigation Measures
None required.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-68
Exhibit 2 302

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Less Than
Potentially Significant Less Than No
Significant Impact with Significant
Impact
Impact Mitigation Impact
Incorporated

20. WILDFIRE: If located in or near state responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, would the project:
a) Substantially impair an adopted emergency response
❑
❑
®
❑
plan or emergency evacuation plan?
b) Due to slope, prevailing winds, and other factors,
exacerbate wildfire risks, and thereby expose project
❑
❑
❑
occupants to, pollutant concentrations from a
wildfire or the uncontrolled spread of a wildfire?
c) Require the installation or maintenance of associated infrastructure (such as roads, fuel breaks, emergency
water sources, power lines or other utilities) that may ❑
❑
❑
exacerbate fire risk or that may result in temporary
or ongoing impacts to the environment?
d) Expose people or structures to significant risks,
including downslope or downstream flooding or
❑
❑
❑
landslides, as a result of runoff, post -fire slope
instability, or drainage changes?
Environmental Setting
The City of Bell Gardens is completely developed with urban uses and is not located in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. The closes State -designated fire hazard zone is in Hacienda Hills and more than 7 miles away from the City.

Checklist Discussion
a) Less Than Significant Impact.

The City currently has a Multi -Hazard Functional Plan. The MHFP addresses the City's planned response to emergencies associated with natural disasters and technological incidents. It provides an overview of operational concepts, identifies components of the City's emergency management organization within the SEMS and describes the overall responsibilities of Federal, State and county entities and the City for protecting life and property and assuring the overall wellbeing of the population.

All new development in the city is required to comply with existing fire codes and ordinances regarding emergency access, such as widths, surfaces, vertical clearance, brush clearance, and allowable grades.

None of the projects would result in such an increase in population on the site that traffic would impede evacuation routes. Therefore, adoption of the Housing Element 2021-2029 would not impede or conflict with any adopted emergency response or evacuation plans and the project would have a less than significant impact on emergency response or evacuation plans.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-69
Exhibit 2 303

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
b) No Impact.

Wildfires do not represent a significant threat to the City due its urbanized nature and the urbanized nature of surrounding areas. No parts of the City are located in areas mapped as a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. Therefore, potential future projects would not exacerbate risks from wildland fires. There would be no impact.
c) No Impact.

The Housing Element is a policy document that do not propose specific development. Potential future development would occur as infill, replacement or mixed use within the existing urbanized core. Thus, future development projects would not require the installation or maintenance of associated infrastructure (such as roads, fuel breaks, emergency water sources, power lines, or other utilities) that may exacerbate fire risk or that may result in temporary or ongoing impacts to the environment. There would be no impact.
d) No Impact.

The City is relatively flat; therefore, the risk of landslides is low. Therefore, potential future projects would not expose people or structures to significant risks, including downslope or downstream flooding or landslides, as a result of runoff, post -fire slope instability, or drainage changes, Thus, there would be no impact.

Mitigation Measures
None required.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-70
Exhibit 2 304

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact with
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than No
Significant
Impact Impact

21. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE. Would the project:
a) Have the potential to substantially degrade the
quality of the environment, substantially reduce the
habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or
wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining
levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal
❑
❑
❑
community, substantially 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?
b) Have impacts that are individually limited, but
cumulatively considerable? ("Cumulatively
considerable" means that the incremental effects of
a project are considerable when viewed in ❑ ❑ ® ❑
connection with the effects of past projects, the
effects of other current projects, and the effects of
probable future projects.)
c) Have environmental effects which will cause
substantial adverse effects on human beings, either ❑ ❑ ® ❑ directly or indirectly?
Checklist Discussion
a) 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 major periods of California history or prehistory. Therefore, no impact would occur.
b) 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 General Plan EIR. The Housing Element in large measure does not propose changes Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-71
Exhibit 2 305

II. INITIAL STUDY CHECKLIST
to the City's adopted housing related policies and programs including those set forth in the General Plan (Land Use Element) and the 2013-2021 Housing Element. Since the Housing Element is consistent with the General Plan, adopting the Housing Element would not create new cumulative impacts or increase the significance of cumulative impacts identified in the General Plan EIR. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant.
c) Less Than Significant Impact.

Future development supported by the Housing Element would be required to comply with numerous required measures related to human safety and the quality of the environment, as described throughout this document. Therefore, adoption of the Housing Element 2021-2029 would result in no environmental effects that would cause substantial director indirect adverse effects on human beings and impacts would be less than significant.

Mitigation Measures
None required.

Housing Element 2021-2029
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Bell Gardens
December 2021
11-72
Exhibit 2 306

RESOLUTION NO. 2022-09

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BELL
GARDENS, CALIFORNIA ADOPTING THE FINAL "DRAFT" 2021-2029

GENERAL PLAN HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE AND APPROVING THE
INITIAL STUDY/NEGATIVE DECLARATION (FILE NO. 2021-062)
WHEREAS, the preparation, adoption, and periodic update of the City of Bell Gardens' ("City") Housing Element is mandated by California State Law (Govt. Code Sections 65580-65589); and
WHEREAS, the City has completed a Final "Draft" of the General Plan Housing Element Update for the 2021-2029 planning period; and
WHEREAS, State law requires that the California Department of Housing and Community Development ("HCD") conduct a review of a local jurisdiction's Housing Element Update for compliance with State housing law; and WHEREAS, the Housing Element is a policy document that, among other things, identifies programs intended to facilitate meeting and the housing needs of all of the City's residents, including those special and very low-income populations most in need, and explains how the City intends to accommodate the City's share of projected regional housing need, as determined by the Southern California Association of Government's Regional Housing Needs Assessment ("RHNA"); and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held virtual community workshops on February 17, 2021, and August 25, 2021, for purposes of discussion of the Draft 2021- 2029 General Plan Housing Element Update and directed staff to submit the Draft 2021- 2029 General Plan Housing Element Update to HCD for review; and WHEREAS, the City submitted a copy of the Draft 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update to HCD for review on September 9, 2021, in accordance with Govt, Code Sections 65585(b)(1); and
WHEREAS, the City received written comments dated November 8, 2021, from the HCD on the Draft 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update and the City has incorporated revisions in the Final "Draft" 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update in accordance with HCD recommendations; and
WHEREAS, the City prepared an Initial Study pursuant to the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") which determined that the project would not have any significant impacts on the environment and therefore, a Negative Declaration was prepared and made available for public comment for a period of 30 days beginning December 16, 2021, and ending January 14, 2022; and Exhibit 3 307

Resolution No. 2022-09
WHEREAS, the Draft 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update was available for public review from December 16, 2021, to January 14, 2022, on the City website; and
WHEREAS, the Final "Draft" 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update is properly integrated, internally consistent, and compatible with the remaining elements of the General Plan; and
WHEREAS, on January 19, 2022, the Planning Commission conducted a public hearing and adopted Resolution #PC 2022-01 recommending adoption of the Final "Draft" 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update and approval of the proposed Initial Study/Negative Declaration to the City Council; and
WHEREAS, the City Council conducted a duly noticed public hearing on February 14, 2022, adopting this Resolution for the Final "Draft" 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update (File No. 2021-062) and approving the Initial Study/Negative Declaration prepared for the Final "Draft" 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Bell Gardens as follows:

SECTION 1. The City Council hereby finds the above recitals are true and correct and incorporates them herein by this reference.

SECTION 2. The adoption of the Final "Draft" 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update will not be detrimental to the health, safety, and welfare of the general public and will not have a significant effect on the environment, therefore a Negative Declaration has been prepared in accordance with CEQA.

SECTION 3. The Final "Draft" of the 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update constitutes a comprehensive element of the City's General Plan which contains analysis, strategies, policies and programs to address provision of sufficient housing for all income groups, preservation of affordable housing stock, methods to minimize governmental constraints to provision of housing, provision of affordable housing opportunities for low and moderate income households, and compliance with all applicable state and local laws, regulations, and guidelines relating to housing.

SECTION 4. The City Council hereby adopts the Final "Draft" 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update and approves the Initial Study/Negative Declaration and transmit the Final "Draft" 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element Update to HCD for final review and certification.

SECTION 5. The City Clerk shall attest and certify to the passage and adoption of this Resolution and enter it into the book of original resolutions, and it shall become effective immediately upon its approval.
2of3
Exhibit 3 308

Resolution No. 2022-09
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this 14t" day of February 2022.

THE CITY OF BELL GARDENS
Maria Pulido, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: ATTEST:

Rick Olivarez
City Attorney
3of3
Jane Halstead
City Clerk
Exhibit 3 309

10quo°fua��Jd venue , IReH �l� m � an*damun^, CA 90201 56^.06 7700 ^^wmWl)dlllgude.u.us.oua November 11, 2021

SENT VIA EMAIL

SENT VIA CERTIFIED MAIL
Jairo Avila
Tribal Historic and Cultural Preservation Officer
1019 Second Street
San Fernando CA, 91340
RE: Invitation to Consult Pursuant to Assembly Bill 52 — City of Bell Gardens 2021-2029 Housing Element Initial Study/Negative Declaration (File No. 2021-062) Dear Mr. Avila:

The Bell Gardens Community Development Department has prepared an update to the General Plan's 2013- 2021 Housing Element. The Housing Element is one of the eight state -mandated elements of the General Plan.

The Housing Element identifies the City's housing conditions and needs, establishes the goals, objectives, and policies that are the foundation of the City's housing strategy, and provides an array of programs to create sustainable, mixed -income neighborhoods across the City.

The current Housing Element was adopted in 2014 and set forth an action plan covering the planning period from 2013 to 2021. The Housing Element 2021-2029 proposes zone changes to two parcels:

Site No. 1 — 6262 Gage Avenue (APN 6330-018-075) to be rezoned from C-3 and R-3 to R-3; and Site No. 2 — 6845 Florence Place (APN 6348-019-028), 6814 Suva Street (APN 6358-019-026) and 6863 Florence Place (APN 6358-019-0060) to be rezoned from M-1 to R-3.

However, no changes to the underlying General Plan designations are proposed for any of these properties.

The Housing Element assesses the existing and future housing needs of persons in all economic segments of the City and serves as a tool for decision -makers and the public for understanding and meeting housing needs in Bell Gardens.

As state law mandates, the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) is included in the Housing Element.

The major goal of the RHNA is to assure a fair distribution of housing among cities and counties. Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) is mandated to allocate the regional housing needs in the Southern California region. The City of Bell Garden's share of regional future housing needs is a total of 503 new units, including 50 extremely low-income, 50 very low-income and 29 low-income units, for the 2021-2029 Housing Element. Under the RHNA allocation, the City is required to provide the zoned capacity to accommodate the development of at least 503 residential units using various land use planning strategies.

This letter is to formally invite you to request consultation pursuant to Assembly Bill 52 on the proposed project prior to the release of the negative declaration. The intent of consultation is to provide an opportunity for interested tribes to provide early input into the planning process toward protection of Native American cultural places that might not appear on cultural resources registries. You may also request to waive consultation by Exhibit 4
310

submitting a letter to that effect. Please submit any request in writing for a consultation or to waive consultation within 30 days of the date of this letter to:

Carmen H. Morales, City Planner
Community Development Department
7100 Garfield Avenue
Bell Gardens, California 90201
Sincerely,
CITY 0 ;,BELL GARDENS
Gustavo Romo
Director of Community Development
Exhibit 4 311

November 11, 2021

SENT VIA EMAIL

SENT VIA CERTIFIED MAIL
Andrew Salas, Chairman
Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians - Kizh Nation
P.O. Box 393
Covina, CA 91723
+ RI p 11fP J� a 6Bllln' a". 1C&6111P�Re........... ,g
RE: Invitation to Consult Pursuant to Assembly Bill 52 — City of Bell Gardens 2021-2029 Housing Element Initial Study/Negative Declaration (File No. 2021-062) Dear Chairperson Salas:

The current Housing Element was adopted in 2014 and set forth an action plan covering the planning period from 2013 to 2021. The Housing Element 2021-2029 proposes zone changes to two parcels:

However, no changes to the underlying General Plan designations are proposed for any of these properties.

As state law mandates, the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) is included in the Housing Element.

Bell Gardens City CouncilFebruary 14, 2022

Bell Gardens City Council
February 14, 2022