Camarillo City Council
December 11, 2024

Camarillo, California • November 18, 2024
City of Camarillo
Statement of Qualification to Provide On-Call Professional CEQA Consulting Services

Rincon Consultants, Inc.
180 North Ashwood Avenue
Ventura, California 93003
805-644-4455

www.rinconconsultants.com
November 18, 2024
Jaclyn Lee, Planning Manager
Department of Community Planning
City of Camarillo
601 Carmen Drive
Camarillo, California 93010
Subject: Statement of Qualification to Provide On-Call Professional CEQA Consulting Services Dear Ms. Lee:

Rincon Consultants, Inc. (Rincon) appreciates this opportunity to submit this statement of qualifications to the City of Camarillo (City) to provide as -needed California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) consulting services in support of upcoming development projects. We have worked with the City on multiple on-call consulting contracts since 2018. Through these contracts, w e have successfully completed various CEQA-related projects in Camarillo. Additionally, as our headquarters is located in Ventura, we have extensive CEQA experience throughout Ventura County and the surrounding region. We regularly prepare environmental documents for the County of Ventura and the C ities of Ventura, Simi Valley, Agoura Hills, Thousand Oaks, Oxnard, Moorpark, Port Hueneme, Fillmore, and Ojai. For this statement of qualifications , we have assembled a team of highly skilled environmental science and planning professionals who possess extensive technical expertise in t he region and a thorough understanding of CEQA compliance.

As an industry leader with over 30 years of experience with CEQA and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), Rincon is uniquely qualified to support the City with environmental consulting services . We know a number of consultants in southern California can prepare supporting technical studies and documentation consistent with CEQA and NEPA, but few offer combined local knowledge, in -house expertise in community and sustainable planning, public engagement, and litigation support —all which comprises the f oundation of Rinc on’s business model. Our extensive team of skilled environmental scientists and planning professionals utilize their expertise and technical qualifications to support our CEQA and NEPA practice. In addition, the Rincon team stays current with case law updates to ensure our documents are compliant with the most recent regulatory requirements.

Danielle Griffith, will serve as the Principal-in-Charge and will support the management team and technical team to guide the City with CEQA and NEPA compliance . Over her 20 plus years, Danielle has overseen numerous CEQA and NEPA contracts in Ventura and Los Angeles counties. Susanne Huerta will serve as Director-in-Charge of the on -call, to supplement the leadership team should multiple projects require environmental compliance oversight. Additionally, we have thoughtfully assembled a senior management te am of CEQA and NEPA practitioners, that will be ready to mobilize support for the City. For this contract, we propose additional project management to support the leadership team, including Greg Martin and Jerry Hittleman, both residents of Ventura and Senior Environmental Planners with combined experience of over 50 years in Ventura County. Greg and Jerry will serve as the primary contact s for the County as they oversee individual projects. Nichole Yee, will serve as a Deputy Project Manager . She is an Environmental Planner with a strong track record in CEQA compliance.

Through our extensive experience with on-call contracts, we understand the importance of acting as an extension of City staff, providing timely, reliable, and expert guidance as needed. We recognize the need for the City to have project managers available to quickly mobilize to respond to City tasks. Our combination of highly qualified personnel, in-depth knowledge of environmental planning and permitting, and ability to manage both small and large-scale projects makes Rincon uniquely suited for this on-call CEQA consulting services contract with the City.

City of Camarillo
Statement of Qualification to Provide On-Call Professional CEQA Consulting Services 2 We are excited to continue our relationship with the City, as the Rincon team assists in meeting the environmental needs of the City. We welcome an opportunity to further discuss our team and qualifications. If you have any questions regarding this submittal, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Sincerely,
Rincon Consultants, Inc.

Greg Martin| Project Manager
[email protected]
Contact for clarification
Danielle Griffith | Principal-in-Charge
[email protected]
Authorized to contractually obligate and negotiate on
behalf of Rincon

Table of Contents
Rincon Consultants, Inc. i
Table of Contents
1 Identification and Qualifications ........................................................................................................................ 1 Consultant’s Experience ..................................................................................................................................... 1 Staff Experience .................................................................................................................................................. 5 Organization ...................................................................................................................................................... 12 2 Description of the Services and Current Availability ....................................................................................... 15 Overall Approach ............................................................................................................................................... 15 3 Insurance Requirement .................................................................................................................................... 22 4 Fees ................................................................................................................................................................... 23

Identification and Qualifications
Rincon Consultants, Inc. 1
1 Identification and Qualifications
Consultant’s Experience
Rincon has a proven record of supporting California cities with comprehensive environmental CEQA services through on-call contracts. Our team has successfully delivered environmental documentation, technical studies, and compliance support for diverse projects, includ ing complex urban developments, residential projects, and city-specific planning initiatives. Recent partnerships with cities like Simi Valley, Long Beach, Laguna Beach, and Thousand Oaks reflect our commitment to quality and adaptability, ensuring each pr oject aligns with CEQA requirements and community development goals. Our multidisciplinary approach and close collaboration with city staff highlight our capacity for responsive, expert environmental solutions.

City of Simi Valley
On-Call Contract Planning Services and Environmental Documentation Services
Simi Valley, California

Rincon has provided assistance to the City of Simi Valley’s Environmental Services Department, performing a range of tasks administrative, current planning, and long -range planning assignments to assist in relieving City staff workload. Rincon routinely reviews environmental technical reports prepared by applicant teams for CEQA and technical accuracy.

Recent projects with the City include the Oak Road Initial Study -Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS-MND). The Oak Road project involved 70 multifamily residential condominium units on a 3.61-acre site formerly occupied by a private school. Rincon prepared the IS-MND, circulated it to the public, responded to public comments on the IS-MND, and revised the IS-MND in response to the public comments. Rincon is currently assisting the City with the preparation of the Knolls Zone Water Facilities Project IS-MND. The project involves providing additional water storage in the Knolls community for both residential service connections and for firefighting water demands. Additionally, the City identified the need for water storage at a higher elevation to provide water at an appropriate pressure to higher-elevation se rvice connections. Rincon is currently assisting the City with peer review services for a storage yard facility where it was determined that certain components of the project are not in compliance with the conditions of approval and the mitigation monitoring reporting program that have been developed for the site.

Rincon teamed with Veronica Tam and Associates to prepare the City’s 6th cycle Housing Element Update team.

Rincon’s role involved facilitating regular meetings with City staff and working closely with our GIS team to review and analyze the site inventory from the 2013 ‐2021 Housing Element to prepare an updated inventory of opportunity sites. The City initially assumed that housing opportunities identified would be consistent with the land use densities described in the 2012 General Plan. As such, Rincon originally proposed an Addendum to the

Identification and Qualifications
2 General Plan Environmental Impact Report (EIR) as the appropriate level of environmental review for the proposed project. As Rincon developed the site inventory, it became apparent that the inclusion of new sites would warrant further environmental review. After bringing this to the City’s attention, Rincon prepared an Initial Study-Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS-MND) to comply with CEQA requirements.

Reference Information:

Stratis Perros, Environmental Services Director
City of Simi Valley
2929 Tapo Canyon Road
Simi Valley, California 93063
805-583-6307 | [email protected]
Dates: 2017 to Present
City of Long Beach
On-Call Environmental Services
Long Beach, California

Rincon has worked with the City of Long Beach since 2005 and has held an open services contract with the City since 2008 to provide environmental documentation for development projects. Projects include EIRs/EISs, Initial Studies, and MNDs for various commercial and residential developments, as well as City projects such as a new courthouse and the new Civic Center. In addition to documentation, Rincon has also performed technical studies for noise, air quality, historical resources, and hazards /hazardous materials. The following are projects under our consecutive on-call contracts:
• North Village Center Redevelopment Project EIR
• Dorado Residential Development Project EIR
• Civic Center Supplemental EIR
• Cerritos Bahia Marina IS-MND
• 3655 North Norwalk Boulevard Residential
Development EIR
• Riverwalk Residential Development EIR
• Studebaker Tank Removal Project EIR
• The Pike Outlets Remodel IS-MND
• Pacific Pointe East Development EIR
• Press-Telegram Mixed Use Project EIR
• Thomas Safran Senior Housing Project EIR
• 2nd & PCH Development Project EIR
• Auto Nation Automobile Auction EIR
• Plastic Bag Carryout Ordinance Addendum
• Long Beach Police Department Tunnel IS-MND
• Downtown Plan Final EIR Peer Review
• Pier S Marine Terminal and Backchannel
Improvement Project EIR Peer Review
• southern California International Gateway EIR
Peer Review
• 3917 Long Beach Boulevard Focused EIR
• 5860 Paramount Boulevard Peer Review
• 5900 Cherry Avenue Peer Review
• 2515-2545 Atlantic Avenue & 550-572 Vernon
Street
• Various CEQA and NEPA streamlining
documents for affordable housing projects
• Via Oro (Intex) Draft EIR (currently preparing
Final EIR)

Identification and Qualifications
Rincon Consultants, Inc. 3
Reference Information:

Christopher Koontz, Deputy Director
Development Services Department
City of Long Beach
411 West Ocean Boulevard
Long Beach, California 90802
562-570-6288 | [email protected]
Dates: 2005 to Present
City of Laguna Beach
On-Call Environmental Services
Laguna Beach, California

Rincon has held an open services contract with the City of Laguna Beach since 20 19 to provide environmental documentation for development projects. Projects include Initial Studies and MNDs for various commercial and residential developments, as well as City projects such as a replacement fire station. In addition to documentation, Rincon has also performed technical studies for noise, air quality, biological resources, historical resources, and hazards/hazardous materials. The following are projects under the current contract:
• 31796 Coast Highway – Fire Station No. 4
Relocation IS-MND
• 32051 Coast Highway IS-MND
• 2345 South Coast Highway IS-MND
• 150 Vista Del Sol IS-MND
• Reservoir 2B Replacement IS-MND
• 31727 and 31735 Coast Highway Civic Site
IS-MND
• Laguna Beach Civic Site IS-MND
• Pacific Edge Hotel Remodel IS-MND
• Bluff Overlay District IS
Reference Information:

Anthony Viera, Principal Planner
City of Laguna Beach
Community Development Dept
505 Forest Avenue
Laguna Beach, California 92651
949-497-0398 | [email protected]
Dates: 2019 to Present

Identification and Qualifications
4 City of Thousand Oaks
On-Call Environmental Services
Thousand Oaks, California

Rincon provides comprehensive support to the City of Thousand Oaks, serving as a reliable on -call consultant for environmental consulting services. Our team actively collaborates with City staff to provide expert assistance in CEQA compliance and NEPA documentation. Rincon successfully completed the Thousand Oaks Ranch Mixed- Use and Multi-Family Residential Development (325 Hampshire Road) EIR , which includes the development of residential and commercial uses on a previously developed 10.97 -acre site, including 420 residential units (50 units are to be set aside for deed-restricted affordable units) on a 838,553 square foot (sf) site, and 15,000 sf of commercial uses, and amenities . Rincon also recently assisted in preparing a C EQA categorical exemption (CE) for the 384 Erbes Road project. The project site is approximately 3.38-acres and is currently developed with a 26,500 sf vacant building and surface parking . The proposed project consists of eight buildings with a total floor area of 51,632 sf, the construction of a 78-unit affordable “for sale” condominium development.

Additionally, we work closely with the City on major initiatives, such as the Thousand Oaks 2045 General Plan Update, providing seamless support throughout the planning and environmental review process.

Reference Information:

Fabiola Zelaya Melicher, Deputy Community
Development Director
City of Thousand Oaks
2100 Thousand Oaks Boulevard
Thousand Oaks, California 91362
805-449-2575 | [email protected]
Dates: 2020 to Present

Identification and Qualifications
Rincon Consultants, Inc. 5
Staff Experience
Our team at Rincon is composed of experienced professionals with a strong background in CEQA compliance, environmental planning, and technical analysis. Brief resumes for all key team members are included on the following pages.

Identification and Qualifications
6 Danielle T. Griffith, JD | Principal-in-Charge
Education: Juris Doctor, Western State University College of Law MA, Political Science, Specializing Public Policy, San Diego State University BA, Political Science, Sonoma State University
Affiliations: Association of Environmental Professionals Danielle has over 20 years of experience in environmental planning, environmental policy and analysis. Danielle worked for environmental regulation and land use transactional law firms for several years. Danielle’s CEQA experience includes working as a project manager leading large, interdisciplinary consultant teams in environmental planning efforts for a variety of residential, commercial, industrial and mixed- use land development projects throughout southern California. She also has experience in developing long- and short-term plans for land use, growth and revitalization of urban, suburban, and rural communities. Additionally, she has written and reviewed a variety of environmental planning documents, including technical reports.

Principal-in-Charge, City of Laguna Beach – On-Call CEQA Review Services, Laguna Beach As Program Manager for on-call CEQA review services, Danielle worked directly with the City’s planning team to provide environmental compliance and documentation on an as -needed basis. This program specifically highlights her experience with on-call service contracts, and her ability to meet the City of Laguna Beach’s criteria for flexibility and ongoing CEQA expertise.

Principal-in-Charge, City of Simi Valley – On-Call CEQA Consultant Services (two contracts, in addition to on- call contract planning services), Simi Valley
Rincon has provided assistance to the City of Simi Valley’s Environmental Services Department, performing a range of administrative tasks, current planning, and long -range planning assignments to assist in relieving City staff workload. Danielle is currently overseeing the Rincon team in assisting the City with multiple projects in both the P lanning Department and the Public Works Department. Rincon is also assisting the City ’s Planning Division with the review of certain environmental technical reports pre pared by applicant teams for CEQA adequacy and technical accuracy.

Principal-in-Charge, City of Thousand Oaks – On-Call Environmental Services, Thousand Oaks As Principal -in-Charge for Rincon’s on -call environmental services contract with the City of Thousand Oaks, Danielle provides leadership and oversight for a team supporting the City’s Community Development Department. She ensures the delivery of expert CEQ A and NEPA compliance documentation, as well as a wide array of planning services, tailored to meet the City’s evolving needs. Danielle’s leadership is instrumental in maintaining Rincon’s high standards of efficiency, transparency, and regulatory alignmen t, particularly in key initiatives like the Thousand Oaks 2045 General Plan Update. Under her guidance, Rincon’s team delivers on critical tasks such as environmental review, public engagement, and technical analysis, strengthening the City’s capacity to achieve its development objectives with confidence and clarity.

Principal, City of Long Beach – On-call, Planning & Affordable Housing Consultant Services, Long Beach Danielle has worked with the City of Long Beach for over 12 years on a variety of e nvironmental documents for CEQA compliance, including technical studies and providing planning staff services. Environmental services include preparing the appropriate documents for public and private development projects, peer review s, preparation of compliance reports, and providing coordination and consultation with major stakeholders and government agencies.

Identification and Qualifications
Rincon Consultants, Inc. 7
Greg Martin | Project Manager
Education: MCRP, Master of City and Regional Planning, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo BA, Pre-and Early Modern Literature, University of California at Santa Cruz Greg is a Senior Planner/Project Manager in Rincon’s Environmental Sciences and Planning group. He is responsible for management and preparation of planning and environmental documents and specialized technical studies. Greg has extensive experience in the planning field and has a background in preparation and project management of CEQA and NEPA documents such as Initial Studies and EIRs. His experience also includes work on General Plans (including Housing Elements), zoning ordinances, redevelopment plans, and municipal entitlement processing.

Project Manager, City of Camarillo – 280-330 Skyway Drive Darling Development IS-MND, Camarillo Greg was the Project Manager for an IS-MND for a proposed light industrial/commercial project on an 3.29-acre site near Camarillo Airport. The site was developed with mostly vacant buildings that were previously used for various purposes including a playhouse, an adult school, outdoor recreational uses, and a water tower. The proposed project involved demolition of the existing buildings throughout the project site (except the water tower) and construction of three new multi-tenant industrial/warehouse buildings. Rincon wrote and publicly circulated a Draft IS-MND for the project, at which point it included a retail food component. After receiving public feedback on the project and the Draft IS -MND expressing concerns with potential vehicular turning movemen t conflicts with traffic from nearby schools and other nearby uses, the applicant redesigned the project to eliminate the retail food component. Rincon and our traffic engineering subconsultant worked with the City and the applicant to revise the IS-MND (and the Traffic Study) to reflect this change in the Final IS-MND. Rincon also presented on the CEQA process and findings of the Draft IS-MND at the Planning Commission meeting for the project.

Project Manager, City of Camarillo – 2021-2029 Housing Element Update, Camarillo Greg was Rincon’s Project Manager for the City of Camarillo’s Housing Element Update, which Rincon carried out with our teaming partner Veronica Tam & Associates (VTA). Our work included evaluating the City’s Cycle 5 Housing Element for its effectiveness i n accomplishing its stated goals; a housing needs assessment analyzing factors such as demographics, income, employment trends, and household characteristics; a sites analysis to identify sites with sufficient capacity to accommodate the City’s Regional Ho using Needs Allocation ( RHNA) allocation taking into consideration the adequate site requirements under new Housing Element laws; a housing constraints analysis identifying potential governmental and non-governmental constraints to housing production including environmental and infrastructural constraints; and assessment of, and updates to, the goals, policies, and quantified objectives of the City’s Housing Element. The Rincon/VTA team prepared the Housing Element update, submitted it to HCD, and helped the City respond to HCD comments, revised the Draft Housing Element, and assisted the City with public outreach including public workshops, Planning Commission and City Council workshops, and public hearings. Rincon also developed content for and maintained a Housing Element update website for the City and provided CEQA review for the project.

Project Manager, City of Ventura – Anacapa Courts Project IS-MND, Ventura Greg was the Project Manager for an IS -MND for a proposed project that involved construction of a four -story mixed-use building with approximately 3,850 -square feet of street -level commercial space, a 41 -space street- level parking garage, and 24 residential condominium units, including four inclusionary units, arranged around a central courtyard and atrium space, over a podium, on a site in downtown Ventura on the same block as the Mission San Buenaventura. The site was vacant except for a historic structure that previously contained the Top Hat restaurant. The proposed project retained this structure in place. The IS-MND analyzed potential impacts to this historic resource using Rincon’s analysis and previous studies. The IS -MND included mitigation measures relating to preservation of the Top Hat, as well as measures regarding the preservation of subterranean cultural resources, unanticipated discovery of human remains or paleontological resources, and nesting bird avoidance.

Identification and Qualifications
8 Deanna M. Hansen | Technical Advisor
Education: BFA, Graphics, California State University, Fullerton Affiliations: Association of Environmental Professionals; American Planning Association Deanna has over 25 years of experience in environmental consulting and has contributed to a wide variety of residential, commercial, and industrial projects. She has developed a well- balanced expertise in environmental compliance for a variety of developme nt projects. She has developed a level of understanding required to clearly explain technical concepts and issues for public comprehension, particularly for projects that include complex technical analyses and controversial public policy and planning issue s. As a Principal, Deanna provides strategic guidance, project oversight, workload and personnel management, training, and serves as a client and agency liaison for projects located throughout California.

Principal-in-Charge, City of Thousand Oaks – T.O. Ranch, Thousand Oaks Deanna provided strategic guidance and senior technical review for the T.O. Ranch EIR project which include d residential and commercial uses on a previously developed site. The residential units were proposed to be distributed across two, four -story, podium style mixed -use structures and 13, three -story, townhome buildings, with an average building height of approximately 40 feet. The project include d demolition of existing buildings and encroachment into the protected zone of various oak and landmark trees.

Project Director, Department of Toxic Substances Control – Santa Susana Field Laboratory Remedial Activities Program EIR, Simi Valley
Deanna is leading the preparation of the Program EIR to evaluate soil and groundwater remediation activities at the Santa Susana Field Laboratory, a former test and research facility in Simi Valley. The use of hazardous substances like trichloroethylene, heavy metals, and radioactive material has led to contamination, prompting a comprehensive cleanup program by Boeing, the DOE, and NASA, overseen by DTSC. The Program EIR will provide a framework for tiered environmental documents to guide the development and refinement of remediation approaches.

Principal, Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles (HACLA) – On-Call Environmental Services, Los Angeles
Deanna is overseeing the on -call contract with HACLA for environmental services. She is currently providing strategic guidance for the development of the One San Pedro Specific Plan EIR/EIS, which includes the redevelopment of the 21 -acre, 478- unit Rancho San Pedro public housing complex. In addition, Deanna is providing strategic guidance for other HACLA properties, including Jordon Downs and William Meade. Many projects with HACLA include redevelopment to positively transform communities for current and future residents while reducing potential displacement of existing residents by expanding housing opportunities. ownership units, 85,000 sf of services, administration and amenities, and 45,000 sf of commercial/retail uses.

Project Director, City of Oxnard – General Plan Update & EIR, Oxnard Deanna provided senior QA/QC and peer review of documents. The documents included comprehensive updates to the existing Open Space, Conservation, and Safety Elements for the City’s update to its 1990 General Plan.

The scope of work included preparing several natural resource and public health/safety sections of the General Plan Background Report and preparation of the corresponding General Plan elements. Deanna managed the team in preparing a program EIR for the proposed project , which also included working with City staff to update its CEQA Threshold Guidelines handbook.

Principal, City of Long Beach – On-call, Planning & Affordable Housing Consultant Services, Long Beach Deanna is providing strategic guidance to the City for environmental services (CEQA/NEPA), technical studies and planning staff services. Environmental services include preparing the appropriate documents for public and private development projects, peer r eview, preparation of compliance reports, provide expert testimony and provide coordination and consultation with major stakeholders and government agencies. Planning tasks include, but are not limited to, development of planning documents, update of City zoning code, attendance at public hearings and zoning audits.

Identification and Qualifications
Rincon Consultants, Inc. 9
Susanne Huerta, AICP | Director-in-Charge
Education: Master of Urban Planning, New York University, Robert Wagner Graduate School of Public Service
BA, Geography, University of California, Los Angeles
Certifications: American Institute of Certified Planners (No. 026358) Susanne is Director of En vironmental Planning for Rincon’s Environmental Planning and Sustainability group responsible for managing and preparing environmental documents in accordance with CEQA and NEPA . She has worked on a wide range of projects including residential, commercial, industrial and community developments, utilities improvements and upgrades, and educational facilities. Her CEQA expertise ranges from exemptions, MNDs and addenda, to project and program -level EIRs. In recent years, she has prepared numerous streamlining documents for transit priority projects under Section 21155 and infill pro jects under Section 15183 of the CEQA Guidelines . In addiiton, as a leader for Rincon’s environmental operations in southern California, Susanne focuses on mentorship of Rincon’s environmental planning staff .

Project Manager, City of Santa Ana – On-Call Services Environmental for the Planning Division and Housing Division
Since 2015, Susanne has been the primary project manager for CEQA documents under Rincon’s on-call contract with the City’s Planning Division. She has managed the preparation of two MNDs, two EIR addenda, and a NEPA EA under this contract for mixed -use housing and commercial projects. Rincon prepares NEPA documents for affordable housing and capital improvement projects through our on -call contract with the City of Santa Ana.

While she was the primary project manager for the Housing Division, she managed th e preparation of 10 NEPA EAs for various affordable housing, park, and infrastructure improvement projects. Rincon is still contracted with the City to provide NEPA support.

Project Manager, City of El Monte – On-Call Environmental Services Beginning in 2021, Rincon established an on -call contract with the City of El Monte. Susanne is the primary project contact for the City. She recently managed the preparation of a MND for the Paseo Santa Fe residential project, and she is currently overseeing the preparation of a MND for the 3600 Peck Road commercial development as the project’s Director-in-Charge.

Project Manager, City of Los Angeles – On-Call Environmental Services Susanne is the primary project manager for three on -call environmental contracts with the City of Los Angeles for long-range planning documents, developments projects, and technical studies. Under these contracts, Rincon currently has five contracts for lo ng-range planning documents (two community plan updates, a specific plan update, and a zoning code update), and several ongoing projects with developers for CEQA categorical exemptions, sustainable community exemptions, and technical studies (air quality a nd noise).

Project Manager, City of Burbank – Multiple EIRs
Susanne coordinated with the Housing and Safety Element team and City staff to prepare the programmatic EIR for the City’s Housing and Safety Element Update. Rincon assisted with the scoping meeting, prepared the Draft EIR, and completed the Final EIR. The Housing and Safety Elements were approved and the EIR was certified in September 2022.

Susanne managed preparation of the EIR for the 777 North Front Street project, which involved a mixed -use residential, commercial and hotel along with open space areas. The project was approved and the EIR was certified in 2019.

Susanne is currently the Project Manager for the EIRs for the Downtown Burbank Transit Oriented Development Specific Plan and the Media District Specific Plan.

Project Manager, Los Angeles County Development Authority (LACDA) – On-Call Environmental Services, Los Angeles County
Rincon has had multiple consecutive contracts for on-call environmental services with LACDA for over 20 years.

From 2015 to 2018, Susanne was the primary project manager and managed eight NEPA EAs for affordable housing projects in unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County. The Rincon team continues to provide NEPA and CEQA services primarily for affordable housing infill projects.

Identification and Qualifications
10 Jerry Hittleman | Project Manager
Education: MA, Urban and Regional Planning, University of Colorado, Denver BA, Environmental Design (Environmental Planning and Architecture), University of New Mexico, Albuquerque
Jerry is a Senior Planner with Rincon’s Environmental Planning and Sustainability Group. He has experience in urban planning and environmental consulting in the southern California region, where he most recently held the City of Malibu’s Principal Planner position along with a part-time transportation planner with the City of Santa Monica, and formerly was City Planner at the City of Oceanside. Jerry specializes in managing a variety long range and current planning project, including but not limited to, the entitlement review and processing of transit -oriented developments, infrastructure improvement projects, large commercial shopping centers, and large master planned community subdivisions. He is integrally involved in Rincon’s contract planning practice a nd provides management level assistance with preparation of CEQA documents. Jerry has written a variety of planning ordinance documents, including density bonus/affordable housing ordinances, accessory dwelling unit ordinances, and coastal zoning ordinance s.

Senior Contract Planner, County of Monterey – On-Call Planning and CEQA Review, Monterey County Under an on- call contract, Rincon has prepared dozens of initial studies and staff reports for the County of Monterey. Rincon functioned as an extension of County staff, fielding development review and environmental compliance tasks that due to their compl ex nature, required special expertise or a level of effort that would interfere with the day-to-day duties of County staff.

Senior Contract Planner, County of Monterey – On-Call Development Permit and Cannabis Permit Processing, Monterey County
Rincon was recently contracted by Monterey County to assist with processing cannabis permitting applications under an on-call agreement. Under this effort, Rincon staff operates as an extension of County staff for as-needed preparation of staff reports and resolutions for multiple applications. As part of this assignment, Rincon reviews each application for completeness as well as consistency with an adopted programmatic IS -MND, coordinates with County staff and project applicants, prepares incomplete and c omplete letters, and prepares staff reports.

Jerry is the lead planner and project manager for the permitting effort.

QA/QC, City of Salinas – On-Call Planning and Environmental Services, Salinas Rincon has provided contract planning and environmental review services to the City of Salinas under an on-call contract since 2017. Under this agreement, Rincon provides primary staffing for the oversight of the City’s cannabis-related permitting program, current planning support, and environmental review.

Senior Contract Planner, City of Malibu – On-Call Contract Planning Services, Malibu Jerry has been assisting the City of Malibu in reviewing and preparing planning reports and resolutions for a wide range of projects including the Malibu Jewish Center Expansion project, several southern California Edison improvement projects, as well as new tentative maps, single family residences, and residential remodel projects.

Senior Contract Planner, City of Concord – Contract Planning Services, Concord Jerry has served as Senior Contract Planner to the City of Concord since 2015 under an on-call contract. Services have consisted primarily of CEQA review and application processing for proposed projects and rezones throughout the City, as well as assistance with drafting and processing ordinance amendments.

Identification and Qualifications
Rincon Consultants, Inc. 11
Nichole Yee | Deputy Project Manager
Education: BA, Environmental Systems – Environmental Policy, University of California, San Diego
BA, International Relations, University of California, Davis Certifications: UCSD Extension CEQA Practice Program Certificate Nichole serves as an Environmental Planner/Project Manager within Rincon’s Environmental Science and Planning Group. Nichole has three years of experience in the environmental industry. Nichole has prepared EIRs, Initial Studies, ND/MNDs, and CEs, and has worked on both programmatic level and project level documents. Nichole also has extensive experience with conducting Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas modeling and analyses.

Technical Analyst, City of Camarillo – Springville Auto and Business Center Project, Camarillo Nichole authored the Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Emissions sections for the Springville Auto and Business Center Project which includes construction of approximately 218,000 square feet of auto center uses on 10 acres of land.

Technical Analyst, City of Port Hueneme – Port Hueneme Pipeline Connection Project, Port Hueneme Nichole authored the Air Quality, Energy, and Greenhouse Gas Emissions sections for the Port Hueneme Pipeline Connection Project which includes construction of approximately 7,200 linear feet (1.4 miles) of a new 18 -inch water pipeline which would provide improved flow and pressure to Port Hueneme’s northern service area and create a looped water system to increase the reliability of the City’s water infrastructure.

Technical Analyst, City of Santa Barbara – Air Quality Study, Santa Barbara Nichole authored the Air Quality Study for the 320 West Carrillo Street Project which includes demolition of an existing building and garage and construction of a new four -story 35-unit residential building and three parking spaces.

Project Manager, City of Palo Alto – 739 Sutter Avenue Categorical Exemption, Palo Alto Nichole prepared a CE for this project which involved demolition of an existing apartment building and construction of 12 townhomes in two three-story buildings.

Project Manager, City of Palo Alto – 420 Acacia Avenue Categorical Exemption, Palo Alto Nichole prepared a CE for this project which involved construction of 16 townhomes in four separate buildings.

Analyst, City of San Gabriel – San Gabriel Housing Element Update IS-ND, San Gabriel Nichole prepared the IS-ND for the San Gabriel 6th Cycle Housing Element Update to support its RHNA. Nichole conducted in-depth analysis to ensure that an EIR was not warranted, and that there were less than significant impacts to all resources under Appendix G.

Analyst, City of Concord – John Muir Health Concord Medical Center Project EIR Addendum, Concord Nichole prepared the EIR Addendum for the John Muir Health Concord Medical Center Project. The project site encompasses 29 acres and includes replacement and upgrades to some of the existing facilities in accordance with state-mandated seismic safety standards required under Senate Bill 1953 and the Alfred E. Alquist Hospital Facilities Seismic Safety Act of 1983 (collectively known as SB 1953) which must be complied with by 2030, as well as address other capacity and modernization needs.

Identification and Qualifications
12 Organization
Rincon Consultants, Inc. is a multi -disciplinary environmental science, planning, and engineering consulting firm that provides quality professional services to government and industry. Rincon prides itself on the considerable depth of its staff, which includes professional archaeologists and architectural historians; geologists, including a certified engineering geologist and geochemists; biologists, including certified wetland specialists, arborists, and botanists; noise and air quality experts; accredit ed LEED professionals; and certified urban planners. For this contract, we have identified Rincon staff experienced in technical analyses (i.e., air quality/greenhouse gas [GHG] emissions, health risk, noise), biological resources, cultural and historic resources, hazards and hazardous materials, and other related disciplines, including problem -solving services in specializing in energy efficiency/sustainability solutions, hydrology and water quality solutions and land use planning innovations. Our approach to projects is centered upon developing well-designed and creative solutions that respond to our clients’ specific needs cost-effectively.

One of our key strengths is our involvement in projects from “inception -to-implementation,” which spans from pre-planning activities (alternative analyses, environmental constraints analysis, and technical report preparation) to project analysis (CEQA/NEPA compliance, regulatory permitting) through project implementation (hazards remediation, construction monitoring, stormwater compliance services) to post -construction activities (habitat restoration, mitigation). As a result, we fully understand the demands of large- and small-scale projects, the interaction between different environmental issues, and the directives of the responsible regulatory agencies. We have been providing services throughout Ventura County since 1994, and as a result, Rincon offers definitive experience and in -depth knowledge of the City’s current environmental and planning laws, regulations, and standards of the City.

Services
We have categorized our environmental consulting services into seven core areas.

This comprehensive categorization ensures a focused and expert approach to addressing a wide range of environmental needs, which ensures swift access to specialized knowledge for timely and effective problem - solving when needed. The following is a summary of the full range of the services that Rincon provides .

Legal Name:

Rincon Consultants, Inc.

Legal Form:

California “S” Corporation
Founded: 1994
Professional Staff: 400+
California Offices: 13
Core Values: Trusted, Fair,
Transparent, Accountable,
Disciplined, Entrepreneurial
Identification and Qualifications
Rincon Consultants, Inc. 13
Core Services
Environmental and Land Use Planning
• CEQA Compliance: EIRs, ISs, CEs, Addenda, MMRPs
• NEPA Compliance: EISs, EAs, FONSIs
• Planning Services: General Plans, Specific Plans, and Neighborhood, Community, and Area Plans
• Community Involvement Programs
• Noise Studies, including Bio-Acoustic Evaluation
• Air Quality Analysis
• Recreation and Open Space Planning
• Grant Application Assistance
Biological Resources Assessment and Regulatory Compliance • Biological Construction and Mitigation Monitoring
• Baseline Biological Resources Inventories and
Vegetation Mapping
• Biological Resources Effects/Impacts Analyses:

Biological Assessments, Biological Evaluations,
Natural Environment Studies
• Rare, Threatened, and Endangered Plant and Wildlife
Species Surveys
• Nesting Bird Surveys
• Jurisdictional Delineations: U.S. Army Corp of
Engineers, Regional Water Quality Control Board,
California Department of Fish and Wildlife, U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service, and California Coastal
Commission Methodologies
• California Rapid Assessment Method for Wetlands
• Tree Inventory, Health Assessment, Risk Assessment,
and Tree Protection Plans
• Certified Arborist Tree Surveys and Impacts
Assessments
• Regulatory Permitting: USACE Clean Water Act Section
404, RWQCB CWA Section 401, CDFW Fish and Game
Code Section 1602
• Federal Endangered Species Act Section 7
Consultations and Section 10 Habitat Conservation
Plans
• California Endangered Species Act Section 2081
Permits/Memorandum of Understandings
• Wetland, Riparian, and Upland Habitat Revegetation
and Restoration Planning
Cultural Resources
• Literature Reviews/Records Searches/Archival
Research
• Native American Consultation
• Cultural Resource Surveys
• Paleontological Resource Surveys
• California Register of Historical Resources and
National Register of Historic Places Eligibility
Evaluations: Archaeological Site Testing, Historic
Built Environment Resource Evaluation, Traditional
Cultural Property Evaluation
• Archaeological Data Recovery Programs
• Paleontological Monitoring
• Native American Monitor Training Programs
• Section 106 Consultation
• Memoranda of Agreement
• Findings of Effects
• State Historic Preservation Officer Consultation
• Historic Preservation Plans
• Cultural Resources and Paleontological Management
Plans
• Third Party Peer Review
• Phase I, II, and III Cultural Resources Analysis
• Archeological and Native American Monitoring
Environmental Site Assessment and Remediation
• Phase I and II Environmental Site Assessments
• Hazardous Waste Characterization
• Site Remediation: Planning, Design, and
Construction
• Site Monitoring: Groundwater, Air, Soil, and Vapor
• Underground Storage Tank Removal and
Investigation
• Health Risk Assessments
• Environmental Construction/Grading Monitoring
• Methane Soil Gas Testing
• Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure Plan
• Transaction Screens
• Asbestos/Lead Based Paint Testing
• Geological and Seismic Studies
Water Resources
• Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plans
• Storm Water Management and Compliance
Monitoring
• Water Supply Assessments
• Water Rights Permitting
• Watershed Management and Planning
Identification and Qualifications
14 Core Services
Sustainability Services
• Climate Action Plans
• GHG Emissions (GHG) Inventories
• Assembly Bill (AB) 32 GHG/Gas Offset Verification
• Green Building Analysis – LEED® and Build It
Green™
• Strategic Growth Council Prop 84 Sustainable
Community Planning Grants Projects
• Energy Action Plans
• Grant Writing for Sustainability and Climate Action
Planning
• Comprehensive Public Engagement and Outreach
Programs
• ASHRAE Level 1 and 2 Energy Audit
Geographic Information Systems
• GPS and Field Data Collection with Real-time Sync
• Integrated Web-Based Survey Forms
• Data Conversion (Geodatabase, CAD, KML, etc.) and
Digitization
• High-Quality Digital and Physical Cartographic
Products and Displays
• Project Impact Analysis and Data Visualization
• Secure, Cloud-Based Data Management
• Multi-Program Integration and Process Automation
• Web-Based Data Viewers and Project Status
Dashboards
• Data Delivery Systems for Team Collaboration
• Drone Imagery Capture and Post-Processing
• Imagery and Elevation Analysis
• Complete GIS Systems Management
Organizational Structure
Rincon is overseen by a seven -member Board of Directors. There are 2 7 active Principals and 18 Directors of the firm, expanded from the four original founders. The company has a limited stock ownership program that is available to select employees in addition to the Principals. There are a total of 49 company shareholders.

Office Locations
This contract with the City of Camarillo will be managed and services will be performed out of Rincon’s Headquarters office in Ventura with assistance from the other offices as needed. Contact information for our Ventura office is listed below.

Rincon Consultants, Inc.
180 North Ashwood Avenue
Ventura, California 93003
805-644-4455 | [email protected]

Description of the Services and Current Availability
Rincon Consultants, Inc. 15
2 Description of the Services and Current
Availability
Overall Approach
At Rincon, we take a solution-oriented approach to the environmental review process that focuses on resolving problems. This is accomplished in a variety of ways, including:
• Conducting efficient kickoff meetings that identify potential issues or critical data needs for early discussion. • Developing a familiarity with the City's various development codes and unique approaches to CEQA. • Effectively engaging stakeholder groups and the general public. • Participating in the City's development review process. • Devising alternatives that respond to environmental conditions and good planning principles. • Developing effective mitigation measures for identified impacts.

Rincon project managers and analysts are skilled at assisting agencies in not only meeting the legal r
equirements of the CEQA process but also in ensuring a project is consistent with Camarillo’s CEQA E
nvironmental Guidelines, City ordinances, codes, the General Plan, and the relevant standards of other local or State agencies (e.g., the Ventura County Air Pollution Control District, California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB), the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW)).

At Rincon, we understand the need to become an extension of City staff in conducting the environmental review p
rocess. We will provide the City with regular progress reports on work status, as well as the budget. Our t
eamwork approach will ensure that the City has direct access to strong technical expertise, and our local experience helps to ensure an understanding of community issues and local political concerns.

C
EQA Documentation and Support Services
Our firm has successfully prepared hundreds of CEQA documents for agencies throughout the Ventura County and Los Angeles County region as well as more broadly in communities throughout the State. We can assist the City with preparation and processing of environmental review documents, including the following:
• Initial Study (IS) addressing all the environmental impact categories listed on the City’s IS checklist. • Required CEQA notices: Notice of Preparation (NOP), Notice of Intent (NOI), Notice of Availability (NOA), Notice of Determination (NOD), and Notice of Exemption (NOE). • Categorical Exemptions and Statutory Exemptions
• Specific Plan Consistency Checklist exemptions
• Sustainable Communities Environmental Assessment (SCEA) and Sustainable Co mmunities Project Exemptions (SCPE)
• ND/ MND.
• Draft and Final EIR (Project, Program, Focused, Master, Staged). • EIR Addendum, Supplemental EIR, Subsequent EIR.
• Infill Streamlining under Appendices M and N of the CEQA Guidelines. • MMRP.
• Response to Comments.
• Statement of Overriding Considerations.
• CEQA Findings.
• Statutory Worksheets.

Description of the Services and Current Availability
16 Our work products will meet the requirements of the State CEQA Guidelines , the City of Camarillo CEQA Thresholds of Significance , State planning and zoning law, and the National Historic Preservation Act. We have been involved in numerous projects in Camarillo, local communities of Ventura County and Los Angeles County from inception to implementation; therefore, we can prepare environmental review documents for development projects expeditiously and efficiently.

Preparing CEQA documentation commonly involves reviewing documents, attending meetings with the lead agency and project applicant, interacting with regulatory agencies, preparing reports, and attending public meetings and hearings. For the CEQA process, th is task typically starts with a review of the CEQA Guidelines to assess whether a project is exempt from more detailed environmental review. Categorical Exemptions are well- defined in the CEQA Guidelines and include the categories of projects that would not likely result in significant environmental effects (e.g., repairs or replacements of existing facilities, infill development). In non -exempt cases, we would complete an IS checklist to determine the appropriate environmental clearance document under CEQA. For projects where all impacts can clearly be mitigated and where there is not a strong base of public controversy, an ND or MND is prepared. For projects that may result in a significant environmental impact, an EIR is typically the appropriate CEQA doc ument. When an EIR is required, we utilize the IS and scoping process to focus the document on impacts that can potentially result in significant impacts.

In addition to assisting our clients with the CEQA process, our environmental planning group regularly prepares a broad range of technical studies (such as Air Quality, GHG Emissions, Health Risk, Noise, Biology, and Cultural Resources) to help design teams develop projects that avoid or minimize significant environmental effects. As described below in Technical Studies, our team members have prepared many of these studies in the Ventura County area, and therefore, we are highly familiar with both local and broader agency requirements. Our environmental planning team also supports developing and implementing MMRPs , including revegetation and habitat restoration, that may be required through the environmental planning process.

The scope of work for any environmental document or specialized technical study would depend upon the nature of the project being analyzed and will vary from project to project. We have assumed that most documentation will involve CEQA review and that a range of specialized studies will also be requested. The following briefly describes our approach to preparing the documents required under this contract.

Approach to CEQA Document Preparation
Upon receiving an inquiry from the City on a particular project, an early step will be determining what level of CEQA review will be required. Rincon’s project manager will obtain a detailed project description from the City staff members and consider the location, scale, and implementation timeframe. Preliminary site research will be conducted, and CEQA Guidelines for all technical studies and environmental documentation will be consulted.

The following are the typical procedures for an IS-MND and EIR.

IS-MND Process
• Task 1 Kickoff Meeting . A kickoff meeting will be held with City staff to confirm study objectives and approaches, communication protocol, and schedule.
• Task 2 Project Description. The project description will be submitted within approximately two weeks of the kickoff meeting and receipt of information regarding the project. • Task 3 Administrative Draft IS-MND. The Administrative Draft IS-MND will be prepared typically between four and six weeks, depending on the complexity of the project and the types of accompanying technical studies required.
• Task 4 Public Review Draft IS -MND. Rincon will typically deliver the Public Review Draft IS -MND within one to two weeks of receipt of comments on the Administrative Draft IS- MND. The Public Review Draft IS - MND will circulate for a period of 20 to 30 days. Rincon will also assist with preparing and filing the Notice of Intent, Notice of Completion, and Summary Form with the State Clearinghouse and the Notice of Intent with the County Clerk.
• Task 5 Final IS-MND. Rincon will prepare written responses and submit them to staff for review within one to two weeks of receipt of all comments received by close of the public review period. Corrections wi ll b
e made as necessary, and a final set of responses will be provided to enclose with the Final IS -MND to be considered for approval. The Final IS -MND will typically be provided within one week of receipt of all City Description of the Services and Current Availability
Rincon Consultants, Inc. 17
comments regarding the responses. The Final IS-MND will be in the form of a single document that includes the Draft IS -MND, mitigation measures, and MMRP as well as all agency and public comments and responses to comments. If desired, we can also prepare CEQA Findings for the project in conjunction with the Final IS-MND. Once the Final IS-MND is approved, Rincon will assist with preparing and filing the NOD.

EIR Process
• Task 1 Kickoff Meeting . A kickoff meeting will be held with City staff to confirm study objectives and approaches, communication protocol, and schedule.
• Task 2 EIR Project Description. Rincon will prepare a description of the proposal being analyzed in the EIR, including descriptions of the site and its location, project characteristics relevant to the EIR analysis, project objectives, and required discretionary approvals. This typically includes textual, tabular, and graphic presentations.
• Task 3 IS- NOP. Rincon will prepare an IS checklist with supporting discussion, typically within three to four weeks. The IS will cover all items on the City’s environmental checklist and will include facts and analysis to support all conclusions. Upon City approval of the IS, we will circulate a NOP of a Draft EIR. • Task 4 EIR Scoping Meeting. If required, a scoping meeting will be held during the 30-day NOP period to introduce the community to the proposed project and obtain input on the EIR scope of work (note: scoping meetings are required only for “regionally significant” projects). • Task 5 Administrative Draft EIR. Rincon will prepare an Administrative Draft EIR within six to eight weeks of release of the NOP. The EIR will include the following:
o Executive Summary: Summary of the proposed project and associated environmental consequences presented in tabular format to simplify review by decision-makers and the public. o Introduction and Environmental Setting: Introductory sections (required by CEQA) that lay the groundwork for and summarize the substantive analysis to follow. The introduction describes the purpose and legal authority of the study and provides a discussion of lead, responsible, and trustee agencies. The environmental setting provides a general description of the existing urban geographic character of the City and the site vicinity.
o Environmental Impact Analysis: Analysis of impacts determined in the IS to be potentially significant.

Includes four main components:
− Setting: Description of current conditions with respect to the issue in question, including the existing regulatory environment.
− Impact Analysis: Discussion of potentially significant effects of the proposed project, with impacts typically compared to established “thresholds of significance.” − Mitigation Measures: Methods by which significant effects can be reduced or eliminated. − Level of Significance after Mitigation: Discussion of whether proposed mitigation measures reduce impacts to below the adopted significance threshold. − Other CEQA -Required Discussions: EIRs also include other discussions required by the CEQ A
G
uidelines, including an analysis of potential growth -inducing impacts, a listing of significant irreversible changes, and a discussion of areas of public controversy. − Alternatives: See discussion below.
• Task 6 Draft EIR. Rincon will incorporate City comments on the Draft EIR and complete the Draft EIR, typically within two to three weeks. The Draft EIR will circulate for a period of 30 to 45 days. Rincon will also assist with preparing and filing the Notice of Availability, Notice of Completion, and Summary Form wit h
t
he State Clearinghouse and the Notice of Availability with the County Clerk.

Description of the Services and Current Availability
18 • Task 7 Final EIR: Rincon will complete the Final EIR after receipt of all written comments during the review period. The Final EIR will consist of the comments, responses, and corrections to the Draft EIR (if any are warranted), and the MMRP. If desired and required, we will also prepare CEQA Findings and a Statement of Overriding Consideration for the project.
o Response to Comments. Within two to three weeks of receipt of all comment letters on the Draft EIR, Rincon will submit draft Response to Comments. Within one week of receipt of City comments on the draft report, Rincon will prepare the final Responses to Comments. o MMRP. Concurrent with the Responses to Comments report, Rincon will prepare an MMRP, which will be included in the Final EIR.
o NOD. Within five days of EIR certification and project approval (if any), Rincon will submit the draft NOD to the City for delivery to the County Clerk and/or State Clearinghouse along with the California Fish and Wildlife fee.

Alternatives
For EIRs, a reasonable range of alternatives will be identified during the study in concert with City staff.

Alternatives will typically be evaluated in less detail than that for the proposed project. However, the analysis will give decision-makers and the public adequate information to decide between alternatives. This section will also identify the "environmentally superior alternative." If the "no project - no building" alternative is deemed environmentally superior, the EIR will identify the alternative among the remaining scenarios.

Public Hearings/Meetings
From Rincon’s experience working on many public works development projects and long -range planning programs, we understand the need to effectively engage the public in the planning and environmental analysis process. Communication with stakeholders will ensure the success of most large-scale EIRs. Rincon will prepare materials for, attend, and participate, as needed, in all major public meetings, including public workshops, open houses, and public hearings leading up to the certification of the EIRs. Depend ing on the City’s preference, noticing, public circulation, and filing notices with the County Clerk and State Clearinghouse are also part of Rincon’s scope of work.

Technical Studies
In addition to assisting our clients with the CEQA process, our environmental planners and scientists are skilled in the preparation of a broad range of technical studies, including air quality, aesthetics, biological resources (wetland delineation, special -status species analysis), cultural resources, health risk assessments, noise, GHG emissions, and water supply assessments. Often, these studies are performed before fina lizing a proposed project to assist project design teams in developing a project that avoids or minimizes significant environmental effects during the design phase. These studies have included simple special-status species surveys used in site selection and feasibility, and more detailed protocol- level surveys to meet specific ordinance an d permitting agency requirements (Caltrans, RWQCB, USACE, CDFW, etc.). Our environmental team also supports our clients with developing and implementing MMRPs, including revegetation and habitat restoration, that may arise through the environmental plannin g process. Rincon has extensive experience preparing the various types of technical reports that the City might require under a contract for environment and impact analysis.

As stated previously, when detailed studies for such issues as transportation/traffic, utility/sewer, and geotechnical concerns are required, we have excellent and long -standing relationships with subconsultants specifically qualified for those reports, including those with extensive regional and local experience, such as Fehr & Peers, Linscott Law & Greenspan, Ganddini Group, Fuscoe Engineering, and Geocon West.

Acoustical/Noise Studies
Noise analyses begin with ambient noise measurements taken in the field to characterize the existing noise conditions using an ANSI Type II sound level meter. These measurements involve 15 -minute samples at the individual locations selected to assess noise levels from existing roadway and/or stationary sources on or near a project site. Depending on the needs of the analysis, we can also conduct 24 -hour noise measurements. Our analysis includes evaluations of temporary impacts associated with construction and long -term impacts Description of the Services and Current Availability
Rincon Consultants, Inc. 19
associated with project operation. Operational impacts may include both increased noise due to the proposed project (typically, due to traffic increases) and/or exposure of new sensitive uses to high ambient levels (most typically a concern for new noise -sensitive uses such as residences, parks, and schools adjacent to noisy roadways or commercial/industrial facilities).

Temporary noise impacts associated with construction are typically estimated based on noise levels reported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and standard noise attenuation factors. Noise levels associated with construction activities are quantified and projected at sensitive use areas and compared to Noise Ordinance standards.

Operational impact analysis involves an estimation of noise on -site based on a combination of field measurements and modeling, an estimation of post -project noise both on-site and at nearby sensitive receptor locations, and a comparison of post-project noise levels to applicable thresholds.

For projects that exceed applicable noise standards or thresholds, noise reduction requirements are identified.

Mitigation measures may include restrictions on construction equipment use, the construction of temporary sound barriers, recommendations for th e re-routing of traffic, and the use of noise attenuation features and sound barriers to reduce long-term traffic and operational noise levels.

Air Quality/Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Air quality and GHG emissions impact analysis is regularly required to comply with CEQA and local requirements.

Rincon’s services range from quantifying short -term construction emissions and long -term operational, stationary, and mobile source emissions for individual projects from a variety of sources to conducting air quality modeling and health risk analyses to quantify emissions of diesel particulate matter from project -related activities. We consistently track the periodic updates of federal and local guidelines and air quality plans for jurisdictions throughout California. We can also conduct source control analyses and Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Mitigation Fee Calculations.

To quantify the potential air quality and greenhouse gas emissions impacts of projects, Rincon uses state-of-the- art computer models and assessment protocols developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, California Air Resources Board, Caltrans, Federal Aviation Administration , and local air quality management and air pollution control districts. Rincon presents analytical information in clear, non-technical language that is easy for decision-makers and the public to understand.

Our professionals have years of experience preparing air quality and greenhouse gas emissions studies as required by CEQA and/or as separate technical studies. As GHG emissions have become an important factor in environmental studies, Rincon has grown the practice to encompass these services. Rincon is one of a few select firms in California that are accredited by CARB as a GHG Verification Body (Executive Order H -10-176) and a GHG Offset Verification Body (Executive Order H-10-176). In addition, the Rincon technical team includes three staff members who are individually accredited by CARB as Lead GHG Verifiers and Lead GHG Offset Verifiers.

Historic Preservation
Rincon has ten in-house historians/historical archaeologists located in our Ventura and Los Angeles offices to assist with historic preservation as needed. Rincon offers extensive experience providing on -call cultural resources and staff extension services to California municipalities, and our team brings unique qualifications to assist with ensuring that projects will be managed in an efficient an d legally defensible manner. Our staff has experience managing, processing, and reviewing various projects, fro m simple to complex. We have direct experience working as in-house staff to review plans, prepare certificates of appropriateness, address potential impacts on historical resources, and assist with preservation planning , including ordinance updates, Mills Act applications, and design guidelines.

Tribal Consultation Assistance
Under AB 52 (California Government Code Section 21080.3.1 (a)) and SB 18 (California Government Code Sections 65352.3 and 65352.4), the CEQA lead agency (in this case the City of Camarillo), is required to begin consultation with California Native American Tribes that are traditionally and culturally affiliated with the project site prior to the release of a ND , MND, or EIR. Rincon typically requests an AB 52 and SB 18 consultation list Description of the Services and Current Availability
20 from the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), as described above, then assists the lead agency with consultation under AB 52 and SB 18 by providing the lead agency with letter templates, checklists, and detailed instructions to help ensure meaningful consultation with interested Native American groups. Typically, NAHC list requests are fulfilled within four weeks. After receipt of letters, Native American Tribes have 30 days to reply to a request for consultation under AB 52 and 90 days under SB 18; the 30-day wait period for AB 52 is subsumed in the 90-day wait period for SB 18. Rincon's AB 52/SB 18 assistance typically does not include meetings, outreach, consultation, or mailing letters to Tribal governments. Rincon assumes the City of Camarillo will officially contact all applicable Tribes. Rincon will summarize the results of this tribal consultation in the cultural resources and tribal cultural resources sections of the relevant CEQA document.

Biological Resources and Arboriculture
Rincon routinely assists public and private clients with biological and arboricultural resource issues related to federal, State, and local laws, ordinances, regulations, and statutes. We specialize in compliance with the requirements of CEQA, Clean Water Act, Migratory Bird Treaty Act, Endangered Species Acts, California Fish and Game Code, Porter -Cologne Water Quality Control Act , and California Coastal Act . Furthermore, our biologists are well-versed with local regulations addressing biological resources within Ventura County. Rincon biologists and arborists hold the following permits, qualifications, and certifications:
• Federal 10(a)(1)(A) permit for Coastal California Gnatcatcher • Federal 10(a)(1)(A) permit for Southwestern Willow Flycatcher • Federal 10(a)(1)(A) permit for Vernal Pool Fairy Shrimp • Qualified Herpetologists for Western Pond Turtle
• Qualified Biologist for Bats
• Qualified Avian Biologists for Least Bell’s Vireo and Tricolored Blackbird • CDFW Scientific Collecting Permit for Amphibians, Reptiles, Mammals, and Birds • CDFW Rare, Threatened, and Endangered Plant Voucher Collecting Permit • Trained Wetland Delineation and California Rapid Assessment Method Practitioners • International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborists Our biological and arboricultural resources staff is supported by GIS and graphics staff, technical editors, and document production specialists. Rincon is committed to providing high -quality and timely services for independent studies in support of the City’s environmental reviews for private projects. A summary of our biological and arboricultural resources services is as follows:
• Objective Peer Reviews of Biological and Tree Reports • Baseline Biological Resources Inventories and Vegetation Mapping • Biological Resources Effects/Impacts Analyses: Biological Assessments, Biological Evaluations, Natural Environment Studies
• Rare, Threatened, and Endangered Plant and Wildlife Species Surveys. • Nesting Bird and Raptor Surveys
• Jurisdictional Delineations: USACE, RWQCB, CDFW, and CCC Methodologies • California Rapid Assessment Method for Wetlands
• Regulatory Compliance, Mitigation, and Conservation Planning • Regulatory Permitting: USACE CWA Section 404, RWQCB CWA Section 401, CDFW CFGC Section 1602, CCC CCA Section 30233
• FESA Section 7 Consultations and Section 10 Habitat Conservation Plans • CESA Section 2081 Permits/MOUs and Natural Community Conservation Plans • Wetland, Riparian, and Upland Habitat Revegetation and Restoration Planning • Construction and Mitigation Monitoring
• ISA Certified Arborist Tree Surveys, Health Assessments, and Impacts Evaluation Description of the Services and Current Availability
Rincon Consultants, Inc. 21
Quality Control
In every project that Rincon manages, we endeavor to provide each client with a high-quality product that meets or exceeds expectations and for which all applicable professional standards and regulatory requirements are met. To meet this quality standard, QA/QC procedures are developed for each project at the planning stage, outlining the management techniques to be used. Adherence to these standard methods is particularly important due to the variety of properties, locations, and projects that may be included in this program. Consistency in project implementation can provide the City with confidence that the same quality and rigor of analysis will be delivered on each and every project regardless of the location, size, scope, or technical complexity. Danielle Griffith will be the Primary Contact for the City and oversee the Rincon team to ensure consistency in project implementation and effective communication with regulatory agency personnel and other stakeholders, as appropriate.

Rincon takes pride in the structured management of all assessment and remediation projects. The major components of our management program are as follows:
• Technical Direction and Control
• Communication and Documentation Procedures
• Cost and Schedule Control
• Project Reporting and Editorial Review
• Problem Anticipation and Management
Technical Direction and Control
The consistent and effective application of QA/QC procedures is central to successful project/program delivery.

The following sections discuss the primary principles and practices Rincon routinely implements to ensure that our contractual obligations to the client are met, our work is conducted in a n efficient and defensible manner, and that the final product of our efforts satisfy the needs of our clients. Rincon will provide the City with cost - effective, technically sound, and sustainable solutions to your environmental needs.

Communication and Documentation Procedures
Clear, concise, and thorough communication among team members is a critical component in the successful implementation of every project, regardless of size. Rincon’s project management communication procedures are designed to accomplish the following objectives:
• Specify the formal communication and documentation procedures to be used by the team. • Institute a uniform method of recording actions and maintaining reference files. • Assure appropriate data flow to and between team members. • Control the flow of data from the field to the project manager.

Each project manager is responsible for coordinating internal communication among the in-house team, as well as with City staff. To facilitate coordination and communication among staff members, we will convene focused weekly planning and coordination meetings/teleconferences using an agenda developed and circulated in advance. The project manager will convene these meetings to re view work in progress, plans, and schedules, and to ensure effective communication among the project team and City staff . The objective of these meetings is to ensure that communication—internal and external—is clear and consistent.

Rincon has a formal process for tracking and disseminating information and data for all of our projects. We employ an electronic, centralized recordkeeping system for all data relevant to the projects. The database is maintained by housing all the information in the central file dedicated to the project, with data back -up and security measures in place. Our method of electronic file organization allows team members to easily and remotely access the most up-to-date project information.

Insurance Requirement
22 Project Reporting and Editorial Review
In-house, Rincon holds formal monthly status review meetings in which project analysts meet with the project manager for a technical, schedule, and budgetary assessment of progress. Monthly status reviews provide a continuing forum for mutual discussion and peer review of the quality of our work, often leading to i mportant improvements in performance that result from the widest possible sharing of information. In addition to discussing project issues, project managers conduct editorial reviews of the work produced to ensure concise and effective delivery of information.

Management of Subcontractors
Rincon has a long history of using subcontractors on assignments for any transportation/traffic, utility/sewer, and geotechnical analysis beyond our internal capacity. We have developed a comprehensive system for managing our subcontractors. Each subcontractor is issued a purchase order that states the scope of their work, the deliverables and due dates, and the associated cost estimate. The purchase order also contains the required billing and progress reporting instructions. These purchase orders serve as our contracts with each of the subcontractors.

In addition, project managers monitor the performance of each subcontractor. The monitoring activities include daily communication and monthly meetings , which are a combination of activities that both assess progress relative to schedule and budget and forecast work activities expected to occur during the next month.

Staff Availability
Rincon is of a sufficient size that we have the availability and time to dedicate personnel and resources to manage and successfully assist the City with environmental compliance services, as well as execute a number of projects concurrently. We are actively building our team of talented and experienced CEQA and NEPA practitioners to ensure adequate staff availability to meet project needs. We have supplemented our team with environmental practitioners to support multiple projects and have local staff to provide support and mobilize as needed. We are experts in managing compliance programs involving multiple concurrent assignments and are successfully executing several similar services agreements and encourage that you contact our current clients about our ability to manage a high volume of work with in strict time frames characterized by intensive activity.

We are confident that our current workload, while strong, will not interfere with this assignment with the City. 3 Insurance Requirement
Rincon confirms that it can meet the City’s mandatory insurance requirements as outlined in Exhibit C of the Professional Services Agreement (Attachment A). We are prepared to provide proof of insurance, including all applicable endorsements, within one week upon request.

Fees
Rincon Consultants, Inc. 23
4 Fees

Fees
24 Standard Fee Schedule for Environmental Sciences and Planning Services Professional, Technical
and Support Personnel*
Hourly Rate
January 1 –
December 31, 2024
January 1 –
December 31, 2025
January 1 –
December 31, 2026
January 1 –
December 31, 2027
Senior Principal $319 $330 $342 $354
Principal $307 $318 $329 $341
Director $307 $318 $329 $341
Senior Supervisor II $292 $302 $313 $324
Supervisor I $272 $282 $292 $302
Senior Professional II $255 $264 $273 $283
Senior Professional I $238 $246 $255 $264
Professional IV $211 $218 $226 $234
Professional III $196 $203 $210 $217
Professional II $174 $180 $186 $193
Professional I $155 $160 $166 $172
Associate III $130 $135 $140 $145
Associate II $117 $121 $125 $129
Associate I $109 $113 $117 $121
Field Technician $94 $97 $100 $104
Data Solutions Architect $196 $203 $210 $217
Senior GIS Specialist $187 $194 $201 $208
GIS/CADD Specialist II $167 $173 $179 $185
GIS/CADD Specialist I $150 $155 $160 $166
Technical Editor $147 $152 $157 $162
Project Accountant $125 $129 $134 $139
Billing Specialist $107 $111 $115 $119
Publishing Specialist $120 $124 $128 $132
Clerical $107 $111 $115 $119
* Professional classifications include environmental scientists, urban planners, biologists, geologists, marine scientists, GHG verifiers, sustainability experts, cultural resources experts, and other professionals. Expert witness services consisting of deposition s or in-court testimony are charged at the hourly rate of $400.

Reimbursable Expenses
Direct Cost Rates
Photocopies – B/W $0.25 (single-sided), $0.45 (double-sided) Photocopies – Color $1.55 (single-sided), $3.10 (double-sided) Photocopies – 11” by 17” $0.55 (B/W), $3.40 (color)
Oversized Maps $8.50/square foot
Digital Production $15/CD, $20/flash drive
Light-Duty and Passenger Vehicles* $90/day
4WD and Off-Road Vehicles* $150/day
*Current IRS mileage rate for mileage over 50 and for all miles incurred in employee-owned vehicles.

Other Direct Costs. Other direct costs associated with the execution of a project, that are not included in the hourly rates above, are billed at cost plus 16%. These may include, but are not limited to, laboratory and drilling services, subcontractor services, authorized travel expenses, permit charges and filing fees, mailings and postage, performance bonds, sample handling and shipment, rental equipment, and vehicles other than covered by the above charges.

Annual Escalation. Standard rates subject to 3.5% annual escalation, on January 1.

Payment Terms. All fees will be billed to Client monthly and shall be due and payable upon receipt or as indicated in the contract provisions for the assignment. Invoices are delinquent if not paid within 10 days from receipt or per the contractually requi red payment terms.

Fees
Rincon Consultants, Inc. 25
Equipment Rate
Environmental Site Assessment
Soil Vapor Extraction Monitoring Equipment $160
Four Gas Monitor $137
Flame Ionization Detector $110
Photo Ionization Detector $82
Hand Auger Sampler $62
Water Level Indicator, DC Purge Pump $46
CAPDash $7,500
Natural Resources Field Equipment
UAS Drone $300
Spotting or Fiberoptic Scope $170
Petterson Bat Ultrasound Detector/Recording Equipment $170 Sound Level Metering Field Package (Anemometer, Tripod and Digital Camera) $113 GPS (Sub‐meter Accuracy) $67
Infrared Sensor Digital Camera or Computer Field Equipment $57 Scent Station $23
Laser Rangefinder/Altitude $11
Pit‐fall Traps, Spotlights, Anemometer, GPS Units, Sterilized Sample Jar $9 Mammal Trap, Large/Small $1.55/$0.55
Water and Marine Resources Equipment
Boat (20 ft. Boston Whaler or Similar) $800
Multi Parameter Sonde (Temp, Cond, Turbidity, DO, pH) with GPS $170 Water Quality Equipment (DO, pH, Turbidity, Refractometer, Temperature) $62 Refractometer (Salinity) or Turbidity Meter $38
Large Block Nets $114
Minnow Trap $98
Net, Hand/Large Seine $57
Field Equipment Packages
Standard Field Package (Digital Camera, GPS, Thermometer, Binoculars, Tablet, Safety Equipment, and Botanic Collecting Equipment)
$114
Remote Field Package (Digital Camera, GPS, Thermometer, Binoculars, Tablet and Mifi, Delorme Satellite Beacon, 24‐Hour Safety Phone)
$144
Amphibian/Vernal Pool Field Package (Digital Camera, GPS, Thermometer, Decon Chlorine, Waders, Float Tube, Hand Net, Field Microscope)
$170
Fisheries Equipment Package (Waders, Wetsuits, Dip Nets, Seine Nets, Bubblers, Buckets) $57 Underwater and Marine Sampling Gear (U/W Photo/Video Camera, Scuba Equipment (Tanks, BCD, Regulators, Wetsuits, etc.)
$57/diver
Marine Field Package (PFDs – Personal Flotation Devices, 100-foot Reel Tapes with Stainless Carabiners, Pelican Floats, Underwater Slates, Thermometer, Refractometer, Anemometer, Various Field Guides)
$100
Insurance, Hazard and Fees
Historic Research Fees $55
L&H Dive Insurance $57/diver
Level C Health and Safety $70/person

Carlsbad
2215 Faraday Avenue
Suite A
Carlsbad, California 92008
760-918-9444
Fresno
4589 North Marty Avenue
Suite 102
Fresno, California 93722
559-228-9925
Los Angeles
250 East 1st Street
Suite 1400
Los Angeles, California 90012
213-788-4842
Monterey
80 Garden Court
Suite 240
Monterey, California 93940
831-333-0310
Oakland
66 Franklin Street
Suite 300
Oakland, California 94607
510-834-4455
Palm Springs
777 East Tahquitz Canyon Way
Suite 200-127
Palm Springs, California 92262
760-203-5120
Riverside
11801 Pierce Street
Suite 200
Riverside, California 92505
951-405-0979
Sacramento
4825 J Street
Suite 200
Sacramento, California 95819
916-706-137 4
San Diego
8825 Aero Drive
Suite 120
San Diego, California 92123
760-918-9444
San José
99 South Almaden Boulevard
San José, California 95113
408-577-3008
San Luis Obispo
1530 Monterey Street
Suite D
San Luis Obispo, California 93401
805-547-0900
Santa Barbara
319 East Carrillo Street
Suite 105
Santa Barbara, California 93101
805-319-4092
Ventura (headquarters)
180 North Ashwood Avenue
Ventura, California 93003
805-644-4455
Office Locations