Smallwood, Ph.D., air quality expert Dr. James Clark, Ph.D., and noise expert Ani Toncheva of Wilson Ihrig, CEQA requires that an updated, new initial study and a subsequent EIR, or, at the very least, an MND be prepared for the Project prior to approval. Dr. Smallwood, Dr.
Clark, and Ms. Toncheva’s written comments and CVs are attached as Exhibits A, B, and C, respectively.
Therefore, SAFER requests that the City Council not approve this Project or the Addendum, and instead refer it back to staff to address these shortcomings in an initial study and subsequent mitigated negative declaration or environmental impact report.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Project proposes demolition of three existing buildings and associated ancillary structures (totaling 17,716 square feet) and the development of a 158,548 square-foot warehouse building and a 3,520 square-foot multi-tenant restaurant building, located on an approximately 7.35-acre site bounded by Schaefer Avenue and Oaks Avenue intersection in the City of Chino. The Project site is partially undeveloped.
The Project is anticipated to generate up to 72 employees (18 restaurant employees and 54 warehouse employees). The hours of operation for the proposed facilities include 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., 7 days per week for the restaurant tenants and 24 hours per day, and 7 days per week for the industrial tenants.
LEGAL STANDARD
CEQA contains a strong presumption in favor of requiring a lead agency to prepare an EIR. This presumption is reflected in the fair argument standard. Under that standard, a lead agency must prepare an EIR whenever there is substantial evidence in the whole record before the agency that supports a fair argument that a project may have a significant effect on the environment. (Pub. Res. Code § 21082.2 (“PRC”); Laurel Heights Improvement Ass’n v.
Regents of the University of California (1993) [“Laurel Heights II”] 6 Cal.4th 1112, 1123; No Oil, Inc., 13 Cal.3d at 75, 82; Quail Botanical Gardens v. City of Encinitas (1994) 29 Cal.App.4th 1597, 1602.)
Preparation of an Addendum Under CEQA
The City prepared the Addendum to the previously certified 2010 General Plan EIR.
Pursuant to the CEQA Guidelines, an addendum to a previous EIR is proper only where “some changes or additions are necessary but none of the conditions described in Section 15162 calling for preparation of a subsequent EIR have occurred.” (14 CCR § 15164(a).) Looking to Guidelines Section 15162, an addendum is not appropriate when:
(1) Substantial changes are proposed in the project which will require major revisions of the previous EIR or negative declaration due to the involvement of new 1-1
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significant environmental effects or a substantial increase in the severity of previously identified significant effects;
(2) Substantial changes occur with respect to the circumstances under which the project is undertaken which will require major revisions of the previous EIR or Negative Declaration due to the involvement of new significant environmental effects or a substantial increase in the severity of previously identified significant effects; or
(3) New information of substantial importance, which was not known and could not have been known with the exercise of reasonable diligence at the time the previous EIR was certified as complete or the negative declaration was adopted, shows any of the following:
(A)The project will have one or more significant effects not discussed in the previous EIR or negative declaration;
(B) Significant effects previously examined will be substantially more severe than shown in the previous EIR;
(C) Mitigation measures or alternatives previously found not to be feasible would, in fact, be feasible and would substantially reduce one or more significant effects of the project, but the project proponents decline to adopt the mitigation measure or alternative; or
(D)Mitigation measures or alternatives which are considerably different from those analyzed in the previous EIR would substantially reduce one or more significant effects on the environment, but the project proponents decline to adopt the mitigation measure or alternative. (14 CCR § 15162.)
Tiering Under CEQA
CEQA permits agencies to “tier” CEQA documents, in which general matters and environmental effects are considered in a document “prepared for a policy, plan, program or ordinance followed by narrower or site-specific [environmental review] which incorporate by reference the discussion in any prior [environmental review] and which concentrate on the environmental effects which (a) are capable of being mitigated, or (b) were not analyzed as significant effects on the environment in the prior [EIR].” (Pub. Res. Code [“PRC”] § 21068.5.) “[T]iering is appropriate when it helps a public agency to focus upon the issues ripe for decision at each level of environmental review and in order to exclude duplicative analysis of environmental effects examined in previous [environmental reviews].” (Id. § 21093.) CEQA regulations strongly promote tiering of environmental review. “Later activities in the program must be examined in light of the program [document] to determine whether an additional environmental document must be prepared.” (14 CCR § 15168(c).) The first consideration is whether the activity proposed is covered by the program. (Id. § 15168(c)(2).) If a later project is outside the scope of the program, then it is treated as a separate project and the previous environmental review may not be relied upon in further review. (See, Sierra Club v. County of Sonoma (1992) 6 Cal.App.4th 1307, 1320-21.) The 1-3
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second consideration is whether the “later activity would have effects that were not examined in the program.” (14 CCR § 15168(c)(1).) A program environmental review may only serve “to the extent that it contemplates and adequately analyzes the potential environmental impacts of the project . . . .” (Sierra Nevada Conservation v. County of El Dorado (2012) 202 Cal.App.4th 1156, 1171 [quoting Citizens for Responsible Equitable Envtl. Dev. v. City of San Diego Redevelopment Agency (2005) 134 Cal.App.4th 598, 615].) If the program environmental review does not evaluate the environmental impacts of the project, a tiered CEQA document must be completed before the project is approved. (Id. at 1184.) For these inquiries, the “fair argument test” applies. (Sierra Club, 6 Cal.App.4th at 1318; see also Sierra Club v. County of San Diego (2014) 231 Cal.App.4th 1152, 1164 [“when a prior EIR has been prepared and certified for a program or plan, the question for a court reviewing an agency’s decision not to use a tiered EIR for a later project ‘is one of law, i.e., ‘the sufficiency of the evidence to support a fair argument.’”] [quoting Sierra Club, 6 Cal.App.4th at 1318].) Under the fair argument test, a new EIR must be prepared “whenever it can be fairly argued on the basis of substantial evidence that the project may have significant environmental impact.” (Sierra Club, 6 Cal.App.4th at 1316 [quotations and citations omitted].) When applying the fair argument test, “deference to the agency’s determination is not appropriate and its decision not to require an EIR can be upheld only when there is no credible evidence to the contrary.” (Id. at 1318.) “[I]f there is substantial evidence in the record that the later project may arguably have a significant adverse effect on the environment which was not examined in the prior program EIR, doubts must be resolved in favor of environmental review and the agency must prepare a new tiered EIR, notwithstanding the existence of contrary evidence.” (Id. at 1319.)
DISCUSSION
I. UNDER CEQA’S TIERING PROVISIONS, AN EIR, NOT AN ADDENDUM, MUST BE PREPARED FOR THE PROPOSED PROJECT.
A. A Project-Level MND or EIR is Required Because the Project may Result in Significant Environmental Impacts not Previously Analyzed in the 2010 General Plan EIR.
A lead agency may tier EIRs where multiple individual projects or phased projects are to be undertaken, and the individual projects are linked geographically, temporally, or in an otherwise logical manner. (14 CCR §§ 15165, 15168.) Here, the 2010 General Plan EIR is a program EIR subject to CEQA Guidelines section 15168. Under section 15168, “[i]f a later activity would have effects that were not examined in the program EIR, a new initial study would need to be prepared leading to either an EIR or a negative declaration.” (14 CCR § 15168(c)(1) [emphasis added].) Importantly, in reviewing an agency’s decision whether to prepare a tiered EIR, the “fair argument” test applies. (Sierra Club v. Cnty. of Sonoma (1992) 6 Cal.App.4th 1307, 1318.) Under the fair argument test, a new EIR must be prepared “whenever it can be fairly argued on the basis of substantial evidence that the project may have a significant environmental impact.” (Id. at 1316; see also, Friends of Coll. of San 1-4
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Mateo Gardens v. San Mateo Cnty. Comm. College Dist. (2016) 1 Cal.5th 937, 960.) A program EIR may only serve for subsequent actions “to the extent that it contemplates and adequately analyzes the potential environmental impacts of the project . . . .” (Center for Sierra Nevada Conservation v. County of El Dorado (2012) 202 Cal.App.4th 1156, 1171 [emphasis added] [citations omitted].)
Here, there is substantial evidence of a fair argument that the Project will result in significant biological resources impacts to special-status species and their habitats, (Smallwood Comments, pp. 2-29, 30-34), and significant air quality, health risk, and noise impacts to construction workers and nearby residences of the Project, (Clark Comments, pp. 6-17; Wilson Ihrig Comments, pp. 3-8), which were not analyzed in the 2010 General Plan EIR.
1. There is substantial evidence supporting a fair argument that the Project will result in a significant impact to special-status species.
There is substantial evidence of a fair argument that the Project will have a significant impact on special-status species not analyzed in the General Plan EIR. Dr. Smallwood’s associate, Noriko Smallwood, performed a 3-hour site visit during the day and a 2-hour nocturnal survey of the site on July 24, 2025. (Smallwood, p. 2.) During these surveys, Noriko detected 30 species of vertebrate wildlife at or adjacent to the project site, including eight species with special status. (Smallwood, p. 3.) These special-status species included the Monarch butterfly, Allen’s hummingbird, Cooper’s hawk, red-tailed hawk, Great horned owl, American kestrel, Western yellow bat, and Silver-haired bat, which are listed as a candidate for listing under the federal Endangered Species Act, protected Birds of Prey (California Fish and Game Code 3503.5), California Species of Special Concern, Taxa to Watch List, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Bird of Conservation Concern, 1 and Western Bat
Working Group priority bats. (Smallwood, pp. 2-12.) As discussed below, Dr. Smallwood found that the Project’s construction and operation could result in significant impacts to these special-status species due to habitat loss and fragmentation and the increase in road mortalities. (See, Smallwood, pp. 28-29, 32-33.) Dr. Smallwood found that the current mitigation measures intended to reduce impacts to special-status species in the General Plan EIR are deficient, and recommends several other mitigation measures. (See, Smallwood, pp. 34-37.)
The Addendum fails to disclose, analyze, or mitigate significant impacts to specialstatus species, which was not analyzed in the 2010 General Plan EIR. Because Dr.
Smallwood’s expert review is substantial evidence of a fair argument of significant biological resources impacts, an EIR should be prepared to disclose and mitigate those impacts.
2. There is substantial evidence supporting a fair argument that the Project will result in a significant impact to wildlife from habitat loss and road mortality.
1 See https://www.fws.gov/sites/default/files/documents/birds-of-conservation-concern- 2021.pdf. 1-5
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i. Habitat loss and fragmentation.
Neither the 2010 General Plan EIR nor the Addendum analyzed the significant habitat loss and fragmentation that will occur as a result of the Project. Neither General Plan EIR nor the Addendum estimate the numerical or productive capacities of the site for nesting birds as a result of habitat loss and habitat fragmentation. (Smallwood, p. 28.) The Project’s destruction of 7.35 acres of habitat will have a corresponding impact on breeding capacity for species utilizing the site for nesting. Dr. Smallwood calculated that as a result of this habitat loss, the Project could result in “[t]he loss of 124 birds per year” which “would be a loss of significant habitat value that is currently provided by the project site,” and “[m]ost if not all these birds are protected by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and by California’s Migratory Bird Protection Act, both of which are intended to most strongly protect breeding migratory birds.” (Smallwood, p. 29.) The loss of that many birds would easily qualify as an unmitigated significant impact. (Id., p. 29.) Dr. Smallwood found that the current mitigation measures intended to reduce impacts to biological resources in the General Plan EIR are deficient, and recommends several other mitigation measures to reduce the effects of habitat loss. (See, Smallwood, pp. 34-37.)
The Addendum fails to disclose, analyze, or mitigate significant impacts to birds from habitat loss and fragmentation, which was not analyzed in the 2010 General Plan EIR.
Because Dr. Smallwood’s expert review is substantial evidence of a fair argument of significant biological resources impacts, an EIR should be prepared to disclose and mitigate those impacts.
ii. Road mortality.
Neither the 2010 General Plan EIR nor the Addendum address impacts to wildlife from collisions with traffic generated by the Project. According to the Addendum, the Project would result in 1,013,614 vehicle miles traveled annually. (Smallwood, p. 32.) Dr.
Smallwood estimates that collisions with vehicles as a result of the Project would kill 203 animals annually. (Id., pp. 32-33.) Especially due to the special-status species likely to occur at or near the Project, these collisions represent a significant impact to wildlife that has not been addressed, discussed, or mitigated in the Addendum or General Plan EIR. Dr.
Smallwood’s calculations constitute substantial evidence of a fair argument that an EIR is necessary to address and mitigate this impact. Dr. Smallwood found that the current mitigation measures intended to reduce impacts to biological resources in the General Plan EIR are deficient, and recommends several other mitigation measures to reduce the effects of road mortality. (See, Smallwood, pp. 34-37.)
The Addendum fails to disclose, analyze, or mitigate this significant impact to wildlife from an increase in traffic collision-related mortalities, which was not analyzed in the 2010 General Plan EIR. Because Dr. Smallwood’s expert review is substantial evidence of a fair argument of significant biological resources impacts, an EIR should be prepared to disclose and mitigate those impacts.
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3. There is substantial evidence supporting a fair argument that the Project will result in a significant cumulative air quality and health risk impact as a result of nearby warehouse projects and existing degraded air quality conditions.
In the 2010 General Plan EIR, the City found that the impact of the General Plan on air quality would be cumulatively significant and unavoidable because “[t]he proposed General Plan would increase the region’s VMT and air emissions beyond what was assumed in the 2007 SCAQMP. Consequently, the proposed General Plan would conflict with the adopted air plan, and would result in cumulative air quality impacts in the [South Coast Air Basin].” (Findings of Fact and Statement of Overriding Considerations for the Envision Chino - General Plan 2025 City of Chino (Apr. 19, 2010), p. 12.) Hence, the Project would likewise contribute to a significant cumulative air quality impact, which was not analyzed in the 2010 General Plan EIR. Therefore, an EIR should be prepared to disclose and mitigate those impacts.
Additionally, air quality expert Dr. James Clark, Ph.D., reviewed the Project and found that the Addendum’s cumulative impact analysis failed to adequately analyze the significant impacts from nearby warehouse projects. (Clark, pp. 6-7.) Dr. Clark’s expert comments and curriculum vitae are attached hereto as Exhibit B. Dr. Clark explains that the Project is located within the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD), an area that is already in non-attainment for particles with a diameter of 10 micrometers or smaller (“PM10”), particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or smaller (“PM2.5”), and ozone. (Id., p. 6.)
The Addendum fails to acknowledge the existing poor air quality and pollution burden in analyzing the Project’s cumulative impacts on air quality and human health.
Instead, the Addendum concludes that the Project “would not 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.” (Addendum, p. 2-49.) As Dr. Clark explains, the Addendum ignores the sheer scale of nearby industrial development. (Clark, pp. 6-7.) For example, within 5 kilometers of the Project site, there are 167 existing warehouse projects totaling 25,011,300 square feet and 9 vacant warehouses covering 1,288,700 square feet. (Id., p. 6.) According to Dr. Clark, these existing projects “generate 17,000 daily truck trips, producing 23.5 pounds (lbs) of diesel particulate matter (DPM) and 2,649 lbs of oxides of nitrogen (NOx) per day.” (Id., p. 7.) Dr. Clark concluded that this “cumulative analysis demonstrates that the Project will exacerbate regional issues with ozone and particulate matter, introducing additional toxic air contaminants (TACs) to an already impacted area.” (Id.)
In addition, the Project site is located in an area with existing degraded air quality conditions due to warehouse-related pollution. (Clark, pp. 7-9.) The Project site is located in an area that ranks in the top 11% statewide for exposure to overall pollution, the top 7% for exposure to PM2.5, and the top 12% for exposure to DPM in the South Coast Air Basin. (Id., 1-9
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pp. 7-8.) According to Dr. Clark, the Project site “has a cumulative cancer risk of 607 in 1 million placing it in the top 12% of communities in the South Coast Air Basin (SCAB) impacted by TACs.” (Id., p. 9.) Therefore, Dr. Clark concludes that “[i]ncreasing the number of sources of ozone precursors within the community via the construction of the Project will exacerbate pollution levels, resulting in a substantially greater health burden on the community which the Addendum to the EIR fails to disclose.” (Id.) As a result, there is substantial evidence of a fair argument that the Project will have a significant cumulative air quality impact as well as a significant health risk impact on nearby residences as a result of the site’s close proximity to other warehouse projects in the area that emit high levels of TAC emissions. An EIR should be prepared to disclose and mitigate those impacts.
4. There is substantial evidence supporting a fair argument that the Project will result in a significant health risk impact to construction workers and nearby residences from exposure to Valley Fever.
Dr. Clark’s comments are substantial evidence of a fair argument that the project will have a significant health risk impact on construction workers and nearby residents from Valley Fever that was not analyzed in the 2010 General Plan EIR or Addendum. (Clark, pp. 9-16.) According to Dr. Clark:
Valley Fever often manifests as a mild respiratory illness, but it can progress to serious chronic forms, especially in immunocompromised individuals, and may even become disseminated, impacting organs including the skin, bones, brain, and spinal cord. Disseminated Valley Fever is associated with severe symptoms like meningitis, painful lesions, and swollen joints. (Clark, pp. 13-14.) The Project proposes approximately 35 acres of soil disturbance during its site preparation and grading phases, which will release large quantities of dust. (Clark, p. 10.) Dr.
Clark explains that dust exposure is a primary risk factor for contracting Valley Fever (via Coccidioides immitis (cocci) exposure). (Id.) When soil containing the cocci spores are disturbed by construction activities, the fungal spores become airborne, exposing construction workers and nearby sensitive receptors. (Id., pp. 10-11.) Exposure to Valley Fever from the Project’s construction activities is a new significant health risk impact that the Addendum and General Plan EIR failed to disclose, analyze, or mitigate. (Id., pp. 10-14.) Additionally, the Addendum’s reliance on Rule 403 standard dust control measures to reduce nuisance dust are not designed to prevent the release and transport of infectious spores. (Clark, p. 14.) Dr. Clark explains that “the risk that nearby residences would be exposed to Valley Fever disturbed during Project construction is substantial,” and that “risk would not be mitigated by Rule 403 standard dust control measures...because the measures do not consider the drift of spores from a Project Site to the adjacent residential structures.” (Id.) Dr. Clark’s comments provide several available, effective, and feasible mitigation measures to safeguard both onsite workers and surrounding communities. (Id., pp. 14-16.) 1-11
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As a result, there is substantial evidence of a fair argument that the Project will have significant health risk impacts on construction workers and nearby residences from exposure to Valley Fever. An EIR should be prepared to disclose and mitigate those impacts.
5. There is substantial evidence supporting a fair argument that the Project will result in a significant noise impact.
Noise expert Ani Toncheva of Wilson Ihrig found that the Project could result in new significant construction and operational noise impacts that were not analyzed in General Plan EIR or Addendum. Wilson Ihrig’s comments and CVs are attached as Exhibit C. i. Construction noise.
There is substantial evidence of a fair argument that the Project will have a significant construction noise impact that was not analyzed in the 2010 General Plan EIR. Wilson Ihrig found that the City fails to disclose potentially significant construction noise impacts. (Wilson Ihrig, pp. 3-4.) The Addendum reports construction noise levels up to 70 dBA, even though the City of Chino General Plan and Municipal Code limit construction noise to 65 dBA. (Addendum, p. 2-83; General Plan, p. N-10; Wilson Ihrig, p. 3.) The analysis evaluates noise at a distance of 400 feet from the middle of the Project site, rather than from the nearest homes, which are only 90 feet away. (Wilson Ihrig, p. 3.) Using the construction equipment lists in the air quality analysis and applying the Federal Highway Administration’s Roadway Construction Noise Model, Wilson Ihrig estimates that construction noise levels from demolition and grading at nearby residences are as high as 81 dBA, which is 11 dB higher than the Addendum’s estimate, well above the General Plan’s 65 dBA limit, and 8 to 13 dB above existing ambient noise levels. (Id., pp. 3-4.) Wilson Ihrig recommends several mitigation measures to reduce construction noise impacts, including noise reduction, limiting high-noise activities during sensitive hours, and implementing real-time noise monitoring. (Id., p. 4.)
Because Wilson Ihrig’s comments are substantial evidence of a fair argument that the Project will exceed adopted construction noise limits in the General Plan and significantly increase ambient noise levels, an EIR should be prepared to disclose and mitigate those impacts. (Wilson Ihrig, pp. 3-4.)
ii. Truck noise.
There is substantial evidence of a fair argument that the Project will have a significant truck noise impact. Wilson Ihrig found that the City failed to analyze potentially significant truck noise impacts from the Schaefer Avenue driveway, which is located 90 feet from sensitive receptors. (Wilson Ihrig, pp. 5-6.) Even though the Project is expected to operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the Addendum provides no information about nighttime truck traffic or its potential effects. (Id., p. 5.) Using the Addendum’s reference level of 76 dBA at 20 feet, Wilson Ihrig found that “truck noise at the Schaefer Avenue driveway is estimated to be 63 dBA at the nearest residences (90 feet from the site),” which is far above 1-12
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the City’s daytime (50 dBA) and nighttime (45 dBA) noise standards, and 4 dB higher than measured nighttime ambient levels. (Id.)
Wilson Ihrig explains, “Single event truck noise at night can cause sleep disturbance.
Reliance on the hourly Leq as the significance threshold is inadequate to assess the significance of truck noise on sleep disturbance.” (Wilson Ihrig, p. 5.) At the Schaefer Avenue driveway, modeled interior Lmax levels of 46 dBA at the nearest residence “has an approximately 10% chance of disturbing sleep.” (Id.) These are significant new truck noise impacts not analyzed in the General Plan EIR or Addendum.
Wilson Ihrig also recommends several mitigation measures to reduce noise from trucks coming in and out of Shaefer Avenue, including:
Operational conditions such as prohibiting line-haul trucks during nighttime hours, or routing nighttime line-haul trucks away from residential areas, or off-site mitigation in the form of new windows and mechanical ventilation for bedrooms affected by the nighttime line-haul operations. (Wilson Ihrig, p. 6.) Additionally, General Plan Objective N-1.2, Policy P1 requires the minimization of transportation noise through street and right-of-way design or route coordination. (General Plan, p. N-31; Wilson Ihrig, p. 6.) In order to avoid conflicting with General Plan’s policies, the Project “should consider rerouting truck traffic away from the planned Schaeffer Avenue driveway and nearby residences.” (Id.) Because Wilson Ihrig’s comments are substantial evidence of a fair argument that project truck noise at the Schaefer Avenue driveway will exceed noise standards and conflict with General Plan policies, an EIR should be prepared to disclose and mitigate those impacts. (Wilson Ihrig, pp. 5-6.)
6. Because the 2010 General Plan EIR Concluded that the Effects of the General Plan Would have Significant and Unavoidable Impacts, a Tiered MND or EIR is Required to Mitigate Those Impacts.
The 2010 General Plan EIR admitted that the program would have significant, unavoidable impacts in the areas of air quality, greenhouse gases, and agriculture. (See, e.g., Findings of Fact and Statement of Overriding Considerations for the Envision Chino - General Plan 2025 City of Chino (Apr. 19, 2010), pp. 12-14.) Since the General Plan will have significant unavoidable impacts, the City must conduct project-level supplemental MNDs or EIRs for specific projects proposed within the program area. The supplemental MNDs or EIRs are required to determine whether mitigation measures exist to reduce the significant unavoidable impacts identified in the General Plan EIR.
In the case of Communities for a Better Environment v. Cal. Resources Agency (2002) 103 Cal.App.4th 98, 122-125, the court of appeal held that when a “first tier” EIR admits a significant, unavoidable environmental impact, then the agency must prepare second 1-19
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tier EIRs for later phases of the project to ensure that those unmitigated impacts are “mitigated or avoided.” (Id. [citing CEQA Guidelines §15152(f)].) The court reasoned that the unmitigated impacts were not “adequately addressed” in the first tier EIR since they were not “mitigated or avoided.” (Id.) Thus, significant effects disclosed in first tier EIRs will trigger second tier EIRs unless such effects have been “adequately addressed,” in a way that ensures the effects will be “mitigated or avoided.” (Id.) Such a second tier EIR is required, even if the impact still cannot be fully mitigated and a statement of overriding considerations will be required. The court explained that “[t]he requirement of a statement of overriding considerations is central to CEQA’s role as a public accountability statute; it requires public officials, in approving environmental detrimental projects, to justify their decisions based on counterbalancing social, economic or other benefits, and to point to substantial evidence in support.” (Id. at 124-125) The court specifically rejected a prior version of the CEQA guidelines regarding tiering that would have allowed a statement of overriding considerations for a program-level project to be used for a later specific project within that program. (Id. at 124.) Even though “a prior EIR’s analysis of environmental effects may be subject to being incorporated in a later EIR for a later, more specific project, the responsible public officials must still go on the record and explain specifically why they are approving the later project despite its significant unavoidable impacts.” (Id. at pp. 124-25.) As such, a tiered MND or EIR should be prepared to mitigate the significant and unavoidable impacts to air quality, greenhouse gases, and agriculture that were identified in the General Plan EIR.
B. Under CEQA’s Subsequent Review Provisions, the Addendum is Improper Because of the Availability of new Information Since the Certification of the 2010 General Plan EIR.
Under CEQA, an addendum is not allowed when “[n]ew information of substantial importance, which was not known and could not have been known with the exercise of reasonable diligence at the time the previous EIR was certified” shows that (1) the project will have one or more significant effects not discussed in the previous EIR or (2) mitigation measures considerably different from those analyzed in the previous EIR would substantially reduce one or more significant effects on the environment. (14 CCR §§ 15162, 15164.) Under the standard, the Addendum is improper because the Project’s potentially significant impact to special-status species that could not have been known when the 2010 General Plan EIR was certified.
As discussed above, the Project could result in a significant impact on special-status species that could not have been known at the time of the General Plan EIR’s certification in 2010. As Dr. Smallwood states, “There is no doubt that eight special-status species of wildlife occur on the project site, including the Monarch which is a candidate for listing under the federal Endangered Species Act.” (Smallwood, p. 20.) However, the Monarch butterfly did not become a candidate for listing under the federal Endangered Species Act until December 15, 2020—ten years after the General Plan EIR’s certification in 2010. The Monarch’s status as a candidate species has been reaffirmed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service annually, and the agency proposed listing the monarch as threatened in December 2024. Because the General Plan EIR was certified in 2010, the Monarch’s candidate listing 1-19
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and heighted protections in 2020 is new information of a significant impact to special-status species that occurred after the certification of the General Plan EIR, requiring the preparation of a subsequent EIR. As such, the Addendum is improper under CEQA Guidelines sections 15162 and 15164 and a subsequent EIR is required. (See, 14 CCR §§ 15162(a)(3), 15164(a).) II. THE ADDENDUM’S CONCLUSIONS ARE NOT SUPPORTED BY
SUBSTANTIAL EVIDENCE.
A. There is no Evidence that the Project Will not Result in New Significant Impacts to Special-Status Species.
1. The Addendum underestimated the diversity of species using the Project site.
As discussed above, Dr. Smallwood’s associate, Noriko Smallwood, performed a 3- hour site visit during the day and a 2-hour nocturnal survey of the site on July 24, 2025. (Smallwood, p. 2.) During these surveys, Noriko Smallwood detected 30 species of vertebrate wildlife at or adjacent to the project site, including eight species with special status. (Smallwood, p. 3.)
The Biological Resources Assessment prepared for the Addendum by LSA Associates, Inc. (“LSA Biological Report”) states that “[a]nimal species observed on the site are typical of urban environments,” but does not disclose which animal species were observed, except to report, “[n]o special-status wildlife species were observed.” (Smallwood, p. 16.) Therefore, it can be assumed that LSA did not observe all 30 species of vertebrate wildlife detected by Noriko Smallwood, including the eight special-status species she observed: the Monarch butterfly, Allen’s hummingbird, Cooper’s hawk, red-tailed hawk, Great horned owl, American kestrel, Western yellow bat, and Silver-haired bat. (Id., p. 16.) The failure of the LSA’s Report to detect these special-status species and an abundance of other wildlife at the Project site underscores the inadequacy of the Addendum’s documentation of baseline conditions, skewing the subsequent impact analysis. (Smallwood, pp. 12-13.)
Although Noriko Smallwood’s site visits lasted only 5 hours, Dr. Smallwood calculated that more thorough site visits would reveal an even greater diversity of wildlife. (Smallwood, pp. 13-15.) Given more time to survey the site, Dr. Smallwood predicts that Noriko would have observed an additional 17 special-status wildlife species. (Smallwood, pp. 14-15.) Based on his review of the Addendum and the site visit, Dr. Smallwood concluded, “the project site is indicative of a relatively species-rich wildlife community that warrants a serious survey effort. . . . The site is far richer in special-status species than the Addendum would have the reader believe. . . . The evidence is overwhelming that the project site is important to multiple special-status species of wildlife.” (Id., pp. 15, 20, 27.) 1-21
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An initial study and MND or EIR is needed to adequately address the impacts to special-status species from the proposed Project, and to mitigate those impacts accordingly.
2. The Addendum relied on an inadequate biological report.
In addition to the LSA Biological Report’s failure to adequately disclose the diversity of species that would be impacted by the Project, Dr. Smallwood found numerous other deficiencies in the LSA Biological Report. (Smallwood, pp. 19-20.) Dr. Smallwood found that LSA’s review of available literature and databases was incomplete because it relied on only one database, the California Natural Diversity Data Base (“CNDDB”) and failed to consult other available databases such as eBird and iNaturalist. (Smallwood, p. 19.) By including additional databases in the review, such as eBird and iNaturalist, Dr. Smallwood found that 139 special-status species (as opposed to the 34 species in the LSA Biological Report) were known to occur in the area. (Smallwood, pp. 19-
20.) By relying on cursory review of CNDDB, the LSA Biological Report improperly “screened out many special-status species from further consideration in the characterization of the wildlife community as part of the existing environmental setting.” (Smallwood, p. 19.) The LSA Biological Report also improperly relied on CNDDB to determine whether a species would not occur on the Project site. (Smallwood, pp. 19-20.) As Dr. Smallwood explains, “CNDDB is not designed to support absence determinations or to screen out species from characterization of a site’s wildlife community.” (Smallwood, p. 19.) In other words, although CNDDB can be useful in determining whether a species is likely to occur (because it has been detected and reported in CNDDB), it does not follow that the absence of a species from CNDDB means that a species is unlikely to occur. This error in the LSA Biological Report results in a further underestimation of the diversity of wildlife occurring or likely to occur at the Project site.
The Addendum and LSA Biological Report made additional flawed arguments in defending its determination that certain species were unlikely to occur on the Project site. For example, the Addendum states that “[d]ue to the absence of suitable habitat on-site and the develop[ed] nature of the project vicinity, all of the remaining special-status species identified in the literature search, including the white cuckoo bee (Neolarra alba), are considered absent from the project site and vicinity.” (Smallwood, p. 20.) However, as Dr.
Smallwood notes, “[t]here is no doubt that eight special-status species of wildlife occur on the project site, including the Monarch which is a candidate for listing under the federal Endangered Species Act.” (Id.) As such, Dr. Smallwood concluded that “[t]he Addendum presents a profoundly inaccurate analysis of whether special-status species of wildlife occur on the project site.” (Id.) Because “[a]n inaccurate baseline characterization of the wildlife community is ill-suited for accurate analysis of project impacts on wildlife, and therefore illsuited for formulating appropriate mitigation,” the Addendum’s impact analysis and conclusions should not be relied upon. (Id., p. 20.)
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Due to the above shortcomings in the LSA Biological Report, the Addendum’s conclusions about the Project’s impacts to biological resources are not supported by substantial evidence. As such, an initial study and MND or EIR is needed to adequately address the impacts to wildlife of the proposed Project, and to mitigate those impacts accordingly.
B. There is no Evidence that the Project Will not Result in New Significant Impacts on Wildlife Movement and Cumulative Impacts.
1. Wildlife movement.
Dr. Smallwood found that the Addendum, its LSA Biological Report, and the 2010 General Plan EIR’s analysis of the Project’s impacts to wildlife movement were all deeply flawed. (Smallwood, pp. 29-30.) According to Dr. Smallwood, the General Plan EIR lacks any serious analysis of the potential for the Project to interfere with wildlife movement in the region. (Id., p. 29.) The Addendum and LSA Biological Report adopt a false standard that the Project site must represent a regional wildlife movement corridor in order to serve wildlife movement in the region. (Id., p. 30.) However, under CEQA, the standard is whether the Project will impact wildlife movement “regardless of whether the movement is channeled by a corridor.” (Id.) As Dr. Smallwood explains,
[T]he species detected on site by Noriko would not have been detected there had their members not moved to the site for its habitat. For many species of wildlife, the project site provides stopover opportunities, and for many others it is a migratory destination.... Again, the CEQA question goes to wildlife movement in the region, and not specifically to whether the site is part of, or inclusive of, a corridor. What was needed, but not provided, was a program of observation to characterize how wildlife use the site for movement in the region. Biologists should have recorded flight paths, especially of birds and bats moving to or from the project site....
(Id., pp. 29-30.) Dr. Smallwood concludes that neither the Addendum nor the General Plan EIR provide substantial evidence that the Project’s impact on wildlife movement would be less than significant. (Id.) An initial study and MND or EIR is needed to adequately address the impacts to wildlife movement of the proposed Project, and to mitigate those impacts accordingly.
2. Cumulative Impacts.
Dr. Smallwood found that the Addendum failed to discuss cumulative impacts to wildlife. (Smallwood, pp. 33-34.) According to Dr. Smallwood, “Given the extent of habitat fragmentation in the region, leaving the open space of the project site as one of the last sizable patches of wildlife habitat within miles, the project’s contribution to cumulative habitat destruction would be consequential.” (Id., p. 33.) Thus, because the Project “would cause severe declines in wildlife abundance and species richness in the region,” an initial 1-29
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study and MND or EIR is needed to adequately address the impacts to wildlife movement of the proposed Project, and to mitigate those impacts accordingly. (Id., p. 34.) C. There is no Evidence that the Project Will not Result in a New Significant Construction or Operational-Related Air Quality Impact.
In determining that CEQA’s subsequent review provisions apply to the proposed Project, the City relied on emissions calculated with CalEEMod. 2022.1. (Addendum, p. 2-
46.) This model relies on recommended default values, or on site-specific information related to a number of factors. When more specific project information is known, the user may change the default values and input project-specific values, but CEQA requires that such changes be justified by substantial evidence. The model is used to generate a project’s construction and operational emissions. Dr. Clark reviewed the Project’s CalEEMod output files provided at Appendix A to the Addendum, and found that several model inputs used to generate a project’s operation emissions were not consistent with information disclosed in the Addendum. (Clark, pp. 5-6.) As a result, Dr. Clark concludes that the Project’s operational emissions are underestimated. (Id.) Because the Addendum uses incorrect estimates for emissions, its air quality analysis cannot be relied upon to determine the Project’s emissions, and the City’s conclusions are not supported by substantial evidence. The particular errors identified by Dr. Clark are discussed below. These errors should be corrected in a subsequent CEQA document prior to approval of the Project.
Specifically, Dr. Clark found that the Addendum’s air quality analysis failed to include back-up generators and fire pumps in its operational air quality impact analysis. (Clark, pp. 5-6.) An initial study and MND or EIR is needed to adequately address the air quality impacts of the proposed Project, and to mitigate those impacts accordingly.
D. There is no Evidence that the Project Will not Result in New Significant Hazards from Battery Storage on Site.
Neither the Addendum nor the 2010 General Plan EIR include any information regarding the capacity of the battery storage system or the type of batteries to be deployed at the Project site. (See, Clark, pp. 16-17.) Instead, the Addendum merely states, “Solar photovoltaic panels would be installed in collective arrangements on the project site such that the total power generated would augment 80 percent of the project’s power needs.” (Id., p.
16.) According to Dr. Clark, the Addendum’s “failure to include any specifications of the battery systems results in the failure to analyze the particular hazards presented by the presence of such infrastructure.” (Id.) Dr. Clark explains that the “hazards from battery storage systems include thermal runaway, off-gassing, and stranded energy, along with discharges of hazardous chemicals from the batteries themselves.” (Id., pp. 16-17.) The General Plan EIR did not analyze battery storage system and related hazard impacts at this site. The plan to include battery storage is new information and changed circumstances resulting in a potentially significant hazard impact. As such, an initial study and MND or EIR is needed to adequately address the hazards of the proposed battery storage on the Project site, and to mitigate those impacts accordingly.
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E. There is no Evidence that the Project Will not Result in a New Significant Noise Impact.
The Addendum’s noise analysis contains several deficiencies that underestimate the Project’s construction and operational noise impacts on nearby sensitive receptors. (See, Wilson Ihrig, pp. 6-8.) As discussed below, errors in modeling mechanical systems, validating traffic noise, and establishing baseline conditions resulted in the Addendum’s inadequate noise analysis and failure to disclose and mitigate the Project’s potentially significant noise impacts. (Id.)
First, the Addendum’s mechanical noise analysis contains errors and omissions. (Wilson Ihrig, pp. 6-7.) Wilson Ihrig found that the Addendum underestimates the Project’s mechanical noise by modeling only four HVAC units, when a warehouse of that size would realistically require at least 25 units. (Id.) Moreover, even the four HVAC units assumed would exceed residential noise limits. (Id., p. 6.) The analysis should be corrected to reflect actual ventilation needs of the planned building and include enforceable mitigation. (Id., p.
7.)
Second, the Addendum’s traffic analysis is missing validation. (Wilson Ihrig, p. 7.) Wilson Ihrig found that the “modeled levels for existing traffic along Shaeffer Avenue are lower than measured levels reported in the Addendum,” with modeled CNEL levels 8 dB lower than measured levels.” (Id.) As a result, the traffic noise modeling along Shaeffer Avenue is inconsistent and unreliable. (Id.) The Addendum fails to explain this discrepancy, apply a calibration factor, or reconcile the use of different metrics (CNEL vs. Ldn). (Id.) As such, Wilson Ihrig recommends that the Project “address this discrepancy and validate the traffic model using measured baseline data” in a subsequent EIR or MND. (Id.) Lastly, the Addendum “does not properly characterize the existing noise environment.” (Wilson Ihrig, p. 8.) Wilson Ihrig found that the Addendum failed to establish an adequate baseline because the second monitoring measurement location was conducted at the back of the Project site rather than at residences most affected by truck traffic on Shaeffer Avenue. (Id.) Wilson Ihrig explains that this omission obscures the existing noise environment for sensitive receptors. (Id.) Without an accurate baseline, the Project’s noise impact analysis is inadequate.
An initial study and MND or EIR is needed to adequately address the noise impacts of the proposed Project, and to mitigate those impacts accordingly.
CONCLUSION
For the foregoing reasons, reliance on the Addendum for the Project is in violation of CEQA. Thus, an initial study and a subsequent EIR or MND must be prepared for the proposed Project and should be circulated for public review and comment in accordance with CEQA. Thank you for considering these comments.
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Sincerely,
Victoria Yundt
LOZEAU | DRURY LLP
cc: Eunice M. Ulloa, Mayor — [email protected]
Curtis Burton, Mayor Pro Tem — [email protected]
Karen Comstock, Councilmember — [email protected] Christopher Flores, Councilmember — [email protected] Marc Lucio, Councilmember — [email protected]
Walt Pocock, Councilmember — [email protected]
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EXHIBIT A
484
1 Shawn Smallwood, PhD
3108 Finch Street
Davis, CA 95616
Kim Le, Senior Planner
City of Chino
Community Development Department, Planning Division
13220 Central Avenue
Chino, California 91710 27 July 2025
RE: Chino Gateway Terminal Project
Dear Mr. Perez,
I write to comment on the analysis of potential impacts to biological resources that is reported in the Addendum to a Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR Addendum) prepared for the proposed Chino Gateway Terminal Project. I understand the project would add 158,548 square-foot warehouse building and a 3,520 square-foot multitenant restaurant building on 7.35 acres at the southwest corner of Schaefer Ave and Oaks Ave in Chino, California. My comments that follow address my concerns that the Addendum mischaracterizes the existing environmental setting, and that its impacts analysis is flawed and its mitigation measures are inadequate.
My qualifications for preparing expert comments are the following. I hold a Ph.D. degree in Ecology from University of California at Davis, where I also worked as a postgraduate researcher in the Department of Agronomy and Range Sciences. My research has been on animal density and distribution, habitat selection, wildlife interactions with the anthrosphere, and conservation of rare and endangered species. I authored many papers on these and other topics. I served as Chair of the Conservation Affairs Committee for The Wildlife Society – Western Section. I am a member of The Wildlife Society and Raptor Research Foundation, and I’ve lectured part-time at California State University, Sacramento. I was Associate Editor of wildlife biology’s premier scientific journal, The Journal of Wildlife Management, as well as of Biological Conservation, and I was on the Editorial Board of Environmental Management. I have performed wildlife surveys in California for thirty-seven years. My CV is attached.
THE WILDLIFE COMMUNITY AS BIOLOGICAL RESOURCE
Most environmental reviews pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) focus on special-status species because CEQA’s Checklist Evaluation of Environmental Impacts specifies that such evaluation includes potential impacts to special-status species. However, an important policy of CEQA is “to prevent the elimination of fish or wildlife species due to man’s activities, insure that fish and wildlife populations do not drop below self-perpetuating levels, and preserve for future generations representations of all plant and animal communities and examples of the major periods of California history.” Pub. Res. Code § 21001(c). This policy is not restricted to special-status species, but applies to wildlife populations and plant and Comment
LeƩ er
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2 animal communities. In fact, the CEQA Guidelines Section 21155.1 defines wildlife habitat as “the ecological communities upon which wild animals, birds, plants, fish, amphibians, and invertebrates depend for their conservation and protection.” This definition is consistent with the scientific definition of habitat, which is that portion of the environment that is used by members of a species for survival and reproduction (Hall et al. 1997). The CEQA Checklist Evaluation assigns priority to special-status species to balance information and cost, but it does not exclude the need to evaluate environmental impacts to other species, which, after all, are members of the very communities within which special-status species inter-depend for survival and reproduction.
All wildlife species should be of concern in a CEQA review, but the CEQA prioritizes special-status species. The species I consider to be special-status species are those listed in California’s Special Animals List inclusive of threatened and endangered species under the California and federal Endangered Species Acts, candidates for listing under CESA and FESA, California’s Fully Protected Species, California species of special concern, and California’s Taxa to Watch List (https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/ FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=109406), continental and region-specific US Fish and Wildlife Service Birds of Conservation Concern (https://www.fws.gov/sites/default/ files/documents/birds-of-conservation-concern-2021.pdf), and naturally rare species such as raptors protected by California’s Birds of Prey laws, Fish and Game Code Sections 3503, 3503.5, 3505 and 3513 (see https://wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/ Birds/Raptors).
SITE VISIT
On my behalf, Noriko Smallwood, a wildlife biologist with a Master of Science Degree from California State University Los Angeles, visited the site of the proposed project for 3 hours of morning diurnal survey from 6:16 to 9:16 hours, for 1.67 hours of evening diurnal survey from 18:25 to 20:05 hours, and for 2 hours of nocturnal survey from 19:48 to 21:48 hours on 24 July 2025. During daylight, Noriko walked the site’s perimeter where accessible, stopping to scan for wildlife with use of binoculars. During the night. Noriko mounted a Pettersson M500 bat detector on a 30-foot pole, and she identified bat species by sonograms of their foraging calls with use of Sonobat Live.
Noriko recorded all species of vertebrate wildlife she detected, including those whose members flew over the site or were seen nearby, off the site. Animals of uncertain species identity were either omitted or, if possible, recorded to the Genus or higher taxonomic level.
Conditions were sunny with 2 MPH west wind and temperatures of 57-70° F in the morning, and sunny with 9 MPH west wind and temperatures of 81-76° F in the evening. The western portion of the site is annual grassland that’s regularly mowed, and the eastern portion of the site is a church and houses. There are multiple mature trees on site such as oak, sycamore, palm, magnolia, Chinese elm, and crepe myrtle (Photos 1 and 2).
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3 Noriko saw Cooper’s hawk and American kestrel (Photos 3 and 4), monarch (Photo 5), Allen’s hummingbird and Anna’s hummingbird (Photos 6 and 7), mourning dove (Photo 8), northern mockingbird (Photos 9 and 10), bushtit and house finch (Photos 11 and 12), hooded oriole (Photo 13), barn swallow and Eurasian collared-dove (Photos 14 and 15), Cassin’s kingbird and black phoebe (Photos 16 and 17), European starling (Photo 18), house sparrow and American crow (Photos 19 and 20), snowy egret and Great Basin fence lizard (Photos 21 and 22), western yellow bat and silver-haired bat (Photos 23 and 24), among the other species listed in Table 1. Noriko detected 30 species of vertebrate wildlife at or adjacent to the project site, including 8 species with special status (Table 1).
Noriko Smallwood certifies that the foregoing and following survey results are true and accurately reported.
Photos 1 and 2. Views of the project site, 24 July 2025. Photos by Noriko Smallwood. 1-A-3
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4 Photos 3 and 4. Cooper’s
hawk (top), and American
kestrel (bottom) on the
project site, 24 July 2025.
Photos by Noriko
Smallwood.
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5 Photo 5. Monarch just off of the project site, after flying from the project site, 24 July 2025. Photo by Noriko Smallwood.
Photos 6 and 7. Allen’s hummingbird (left), and Anna’s hummingbird (right) on the project site, 24 July 2025. Photos by Noriko Smallwood. 1-A-3
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6 Photo 8. Mourning dove on the project site, 24 July 2025. Photo by Noriko Smallwood.
Photos 9 and 10. Northern mockingbird with insects (left), and nest material (right) on the project site, 24 July 2025. Photos by Noriko Smallwood. 1-A-3
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7 Photos 11 and 12. Bushtit (left), and house finch (right) on the project site, 24 July 2025. Photos by Noriko Smallwood.
Photo 13. Hooded oriole with an insects on the project site, 24 July 2025. Photo by Noriko Smallwood.
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8 Photos 14 and 15. Barn swallow (left) and Eurasian collared-dove (right) on the project site, 24 July 2025. Photos by Noriko Smallwood.
Photos 16 and 17. Cassin’s kingbird (left), and black phoebe (right) on the project site, 24 July 2025. Photos by Noriko Smallwood.
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9 Photo 18. Many juvenile European starlings on the project site, 24 July 2025. Photo by Noriko Smallwood.
Photos 19 and 20. House sparrow dust bathing (left), and American crow (right) on the project site, 24 July 2025. Photos by Noriko Smallwood. 1-A-3
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10 Photos 21 and 22.
Snowy egret (top) and
Great Basin fence lizard
(bottom) on the project
site, 24 July 2025. Photos
by Noriko Smallwood.
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11 Photos 23 and 24. Sonogram of western yellow bat (top) and silver-haired bat (bottom) detected on site using Sonobat Live and a Pettersson M500, 24 July 2025. 1-A-3
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12 Table 1. Species of wildlife Noriko observed during 3 hours of morning diurnal survey, 1.67 hours of evening diurnal survey, and 2 hours of nocturnal survey on 24 July 2025.
Common name Species name Status1 Notes
Monarch Danaus plexippus FC Landed on plants
Great Basin fence lizard
Sceloporus occidentalis
longipes
Canada goose Branta canadensis Flew over off site
Rock pigeon Columba livia Non-native
Eurasian collared-dove Streptopelia decaocto Non-native Mourning dove Zenaida macroura Foraged; likely nested
Anna’s hummingbird Calypte anna Foraged
Allen’s hummingbird Selasphorus sasin BCC Territorial, foraged Snowy egret Egretta thula Flew over
Cooper’s hawk Accipiter cooperii WL, BOP Perched on sycamore Red-tailed hawk Buteo jamaicensis BOP Just off site
Great horned owl Bubo virginianus BOP Called during bat survey American kestrel Falco sparverius BOP Flew over
Cassin’s kingbird Tyrannus vociferans
Black phoebe Sayornis nigricans
American crow Corvus brachyrhynchos
Common raven Corvus corax
Barn swallow Hirundo rustica Foraged over site
Cliff swallow Petrochelidon pyrrhonota Just off site
Bushtit Psaltriparus minimus
Many foraged in oak and
sycamore
Northern mockingbird Mimus polyglottos
Nesting on site - gathered
food & nest material
European starling Sturnus vulgaris Non-native Many juveniles Western bluebird Sialia mexicana Just off site
House sparrow Passer domesticus Non-native
Dust bathed in fresh soil
from gopher mounds
House finch Haemorphous mexicanus Foraged; likely nested Hooded oriole Icterus cucullatus Foraged
Brown-headed cowbird Molothrus ater Many
Western yellow bat Lasiurus xanthinus SSC, WBWG:H
Silver-haired bat Lasionycteris noctivagans WBWG:M
California ground
squirrel Otospermophilus beecheyi Burrows
Botta’s pocket gopher Thomomys bottae Burrows
1 On CDFW’s Special Animals List (https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=109406) as FC = federal candidate for listing, BCC = U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Bird of Conservation Concern (https://www.fws.gov/sites/ default/files/documents/birds-of-conservation-concern2021.pdf); SSC = California Species of Special Concern, WL = Taxa to Watch List; BOP = protected by Birds of Prey (California Fish and Game Code 3503.5), WBWG = Western Bat Working Group with priority rankings, of low (L), moderate (M), and high (H). 1-A-3
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13 Noriko detected 30 species of vertebrate willdife, which was a relatively large number for the brevity of her survey effort. However, the species of wildlife Noriko detected at the project site were not the only species that were present during her surveys, as some species typically go undetected. To demonstrate this, I fit nonlinear regression models to Noriko’s cumulative numbers of vertebrate species detected with time into her surveys to predict the numbers of species that she would have detected with longer surveys or perhaps with additional biologists available to assist her. The model is a logistic growth model which reaches an asymptote that corresponds with the theoretical maximum number of vertebrate wildlife species that could have been detected during the survey.
The model fit to Noriko’s morning survey data, for example, predicts 26 species of vertebrate wildlife were available to be detected, which equalled the number she detected (Figure 1). Her rate of species detections during both surveys mostly followed the upper bound of the 95% confidence interval I estimated from other . surveys in the region (Figure 1).
Figure 1. Actual
and predicted
relationships
between the
numbers of
vertebrate
wildlife species
detected and the
elapsed survey
time based on
Noriko’s visualscan surveys on
24 July 2025.
The species that Noriko did and did not detect on 24 July 2025 composed only a fraction of the species that would occur at the project site over the period of a year or longer.
This is because many species are seasonal in their occurrence, some require more survey effort due to their are high crypticity, and the members of other species would visit the 0 50 100 150 200 250 300
Minutes into survey
0 5
10 15
20 25
30 Cumulative number of wildlife species detected
95% CI 2019-2024 in region
YAM 0.99
YPM 0.99
r
2 1-A-3
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14 site only periodically while patrolling large home ranges. A survey on only one day cannot possibly detect all of the species of the local wildlife community.
At least a year’s worth of surveys would be needed to more accurately report the number of vertebrate species that occur at the project site, but I only have Noriko’s two surveys.
However, by use of an analytical bridge, a modeling effort applied to a large, robust data set from a research site can predict the number of vertebrate wildlife species that likely make use of the site over the longer term. This analytical bridge draws inference from the pattern of species detections more than it does from the research site, and I note that the pattern, i.e., rate, of species detections is consistent from site to site.
As part of my research, I completed a much larger survey effort across 167 km2 of annual grasslands of the Altamont Pass Wind Resource Area, where from 2015 through 2019 I performed 721 1-hour visual-scan surveys, or 721 hours of surveys, at 46 stations. I used binoculars and otherwise the methods were the same as the methods I and other consulting biologists use for surveys at proposed project sites. At each of the 46 survey stations, I tallied new species detected with each sequential survey at that station, and then related the cumulative species detected to the hours (number of surveys, as each survey lasted 1 hour) used to accumulate my counts of species detected. I used combined quadratic and simplex methods of estimation in Statistica to estimate least-squares, best-fit nonlinear models of the number of cumulative species detected regressed on hours of survey (number of surveys) at the station: 𝑅̂ = 1 1⁄𝑎+𝑏×(𝐻𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠)
𝑐
, where 𝑅̂
represented cumulative species richness detected. The coefficients of determination, r 2,
of the models ranged 0.88 to 1.00, with a mean of 0.97 (95% CI: 0.96, 0.98); or in other words, the models were excellent fits to the data.
I projected the predictions of each model to thousands of hours to find predicted asymptotes of wildlife species richness. The mean model-predicted asymptote of species richness was 57 after 11,857 hours of visual-scan surveys among the 46 stations of my research site. I also averaged model predictions of species richness at each incremental increase of number of surveys, i.e., number of hours (Figure 2). On average I would have detected 16.6 species over my first 4.67 hours of diurnal surveys at my research site in the Altamont Pass (4.67 hours to match the 4.67 hours Noriko surveyed during daylight hours at the project site), which composed 29.2% of the predicted total number of species I would detect with a much larger survey effort at the research site. Given the example illustrated in Figure 2, the 27 diurnally active species Noriko detected after her
4.67 hours of daylight survey at the project site likely represented 29.2% of the species to be detected after many more visual-scan surveys over another year or longer. With many more repeat surveys through the year, Noriko would likely detect 27
0.292 ⁄ = 92
species of diurnally active vertebrate wildlife at the site. Assuming Noriko’s ratio of special-status to non-special-status species was to hold through the detections of all 92 predicted species, then continued surveys would eventually detect 17 special-status species of diurnally active vertebrate wildlife.
Because my prediction of 92 species of vertebrate wildlife, including 17 special-status species, is derived from daytime visual-scan surveys, and would detect few nocturnal 1-A-3
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15 mammals such as bats, the true number of species composing the wildlife community of the site must be larger. Noriko’s reconnaissance surveys should serve only as a starting point toward characterization of the site’s wildlife community, but it certainly cannot alone inform of the inventory of species that use the site. More surveys are needed than her two surveys to inventory the project site’s wildlife community. Nevertheless, the large number of species I predict at the project site is indicative of a relatively speciesrich wildlife community that warrants a serious survey effort. The patterns in the data and what I know of nocturnal species, I predict at least 110 species of vertebrate wildlife rely on the project site as habitat.
Figure 2. Mean (95% CI)
predicted wildlife species
richness, 𝑅̂, as a nonlinear
function of hour-long
survey increments across
46 visual-scan survey
stations across the
Altamont Pass Wind
Resource Area, Alameda
and Contra Costa
Counties, 2015‒2019. Note
that the location of the
study is largely irrelevant
to the utility of the graph
to the interpretation of
survey outcomes at the
project site. It is the
pattern in the data that is
relevant, because the
pattern is typical of the
pattern seen elsewhere.
EXISTING ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING
The first step in analysis of potential project impacts to biological resources is to accurately characterize the existing environmental setting, including the wildlife community and any key ecological relationships and known and ongoing threats to special-status species. A reasonably accurate characterization of the environmental setting can provide the baseline against which to analyze potential project impacts. For these reasons, characterization of the environmental setting, including the project site’s regional setting, is one of the CEQA’s essential analytical steps. Methods to achieve this first step typically include (1) surveys of the site for biological resources, and (2) reviews of literature, databases and local experts for documented occurrences of special-status species. In the case of the proposed project, these required steps remain incomplete and misleading.
0 20 40 60 80 100
0 10
20 30
40 50
Cumulative number of surveys (hours)
(95% CI)
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16 Environmental Setting informed by Field Surveys
To the CEQA’s primary objective to disclose potential environmental impacts of a proposed project, the analysis should be informed of which biological species are known to occur at the proposed project site, which special-status species are likely to occur, as well as the limitations of the survey effort directed to the site. Analysts need this information to characterize the environmental setting as a basis for opining on, or predicting, potential project impacts to biological resources. In the case of this project, however, the reconnaissance survey was inadequate for the needed analysis, and the analysis misinterpreted the survey’s findings.
The survey’s first shortfall was the attitude going into it. The Addendum (p. 10) characterizes the project site as “routinely disced for weed abatement and is covered in ruderal vegetation,” implying there is no habitat to be found on this site. Except for possibly proving nesting opportunities for birds, LSA (2025:1) starts by asserting “No endangered, rare, or threatened species are expected to inhabit the project site. The site is not within the designated critical habitat of any species. No substantial project impacts to other special-status species are anticipated.” All this decided already, then one must wonder why LSA bothered to survey for wildlife. But a survey was performed.
According to LSA (2025:2), two biologists “conducted a general biological resources assessment and arborist study on August 13, 2024,” beginning at 09:15 hours and lasting 1.75 hours. The survey was conducted to record “notes on general site conditions, vegetation, wildlife, potential jurisdictional waters, and suitability of habitat for various special-status species.” Specific to wildlife, LSA (2025:2) reports “Animal species observed on the site are typical of urban environments,” thereby indicating that LSA’s biologists observed wildlife. Although LSA (2025) discloses a complete list of plant species observed on the project site, it does not disclose which animal species were observed, except to report, “No special-status wildlife species were observed.” Remarkably, perhaps, Noriko detected seven special-status species among the 30 species of vertebrate wildlife, and additionally she detected monarch which is a candidate for listing under the federal Endangered Species Act. How many of these were observed by LSA’s biologists cannot be known without additional disclosures of what they observed. Considering that one in four species detected by Noriko were specialstatus species, it is likely that LSA’s biologists observed at least one special-status species assuming they observed at least four species altogether. (Noriko detected her first four species within her first four minutes from the start of her morning survey, and she detected her first six species within the first three minutes from the start of her evening survey.)
LSA (2025:3) notes that “The project site has trees suitable for nesting.” Yet LSA reports no observations of signs of breeding on the project site. In contrast, Noriko reports members of one bird species nesting on site (see Photo 10), and three more bird species that likely nested on site due to the presence of juveniles. More than being suitable, the trees on site serve as nest substrate, and it is likely that ground-nesting birds also nest on site.
1-A-5
1-A-6
500
17 LSA (2025:3) reports “The eastern portion of the project site has habitat potentially suitable for burrowing owl … A survey for burrows of this species was conducted during the initial site visit. No burrows suitable for burrowing owls were found. However, ground squirrels are active on the site, and there is a possibility that the squirrels could create suitable burrows, and that burrowing owl could move in and occupy the site prior to construction.” However, LSA cannot assert that no burrows suitable for burrowing owls were found while also reporting to have found California ground squirrels on the project site. California ground squirrels construct burrows, and burrowing owls utilize ground squirrel burrows. I have never found California ground squirrels in the absence of burrows, and I have never found ground squirrel burrows that are unsuitable for burrowing owls. Moreover, LSA’s biologists did not achieve the minimum standards of the CDFW (2012) survey guidelines for burrowing owls.
Further downplaying the potential occurrence of burrowing owls, LSA (2025:5) speculates, “Although the project site has low vegetation, it is surrounded by trees, which provide cover for avian predators of burrowing owls, is surrounded by urban development, and is frequently disked, all of which reduce the quality of the habitat and its potential for use by burrowing owl.” Yet, I have found burrowing owls nesting under and near trees (e.g., Photo 25). Rather than speculating about the likelihood of occurrence of a special-status species, the appropriate action is to implement the existing survey protocol (CDFW 2012).
Finally, LSA appeals to the existence of a larger mitigation strategy that would conserve burrowing owls even if the project would result in take. LSA (2025:5) assures that “The Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) [ to the City of Chino General Plan] specifies mitigation for impacts of development projects to burrowing owl, including the establishment of a 300-acre conservation area to provide burrowing owl habitat, and relocation, in accordance with CDFW protocols, of any burrowing owls that are found on development project sites.” LSA is silent on whether this 300-acre conservation area has been established or whether burrowing owls reside on it. Regardless, a breeding-season detection survey is warranted, as explained below.
There are three types of surveys recommended and described in the CDFW’s (2012) survey and mitigation guidelines: (1) Habitat assessment, (2) Detection surveys, and (3) Preconstruction survey. The habitat assessment is intended to evaluate the likelihood that the site supports burrowing owls, and to decide whether detection surveys should be performed. The detection surveys, otherwise described as either or both breedingseason or non-breeding-season surveys, are intended to detect whether the site truly does presently support burrowing owls, and if so, where and how many. The preconstruction survey, otherwise known as a take-avoidance survey, is intended to determine whether burrowing owls immigrated to the site since completion of the detection survey, or whether they returned to the site since passive or active relocations were performed as mitigation. The three types of survey carry distinct but inter-related purposes, and they are to be completed in chronological order. 1-A-7
1-A-8
1-A-9
1-A-10
501
18 Photo 25.
Burrowing owl
chick standing
to the right of
its mother and
its natal burrow
located under
an oak tree in
east Davis,
California,
2020. This chick
was one of
three. This was
the last nest
attempt in
Davis, as it
appears the
species has been
extirpated from
Davis.
The first two types of survey support impacts analysis, whereas the third type of survey is a mitigation measure. Burrowing owls can be determined absent based on evidence derived from the habitat assessment or detection survey, but only if the surveys achieved the minimum standards of CDFW (2012). Whereas an absence determination naturally follows from the negative findings of properly performed detection surveys, the following three questions must be answered negatively to determine absence based on the habitat assessment, which would be the closest type of survey to what LSA (2025) completed:
A) Are there occurrence records nearby the project site? B) Is the site’s vegetation cover and height typical of where burrowing owls are found? C) Are there fossorial mammals present which typically construct burrows useable by burrowing owls, or are there surrogate cavities that can serve as nest sites? If the answers to these questions are compellingly negative, then detection surveys are not necessary, but the surveys could be implemented to make certain the site is absent of burrowing owls. If the answers to these questions are affirmative or not compellingly negative, then it should be assumed that burrowing owl habitat exists on the site until detection surveys prove otherwise.
To question A, there are burrowing owl occurrence records very close to the project site.
To question B, the vegetation on site is typical of vegetation often used by burrowing owls. Noriko and I have detected burrowing owls at sites in the region with very similar vegetation cover. To question C, LSA (2025) reports that California ground squirrel occurs on the project site. The answers to all three questions are affirmative. Burrowing owl habitat is present on the project site. Breeding-season detection surveys are needed. 1-A-10
cont.
1-A-11
502
19 Environmental Setting informed by Desktop Review
The purpose of literature and database reviews and of consulting with local experts is to inform the field survey, and to augment interpretation of its outcome. Analysts need this information to identify which species are known to have occurred at or near the project site, and to identify which other special-status species could conceivably occur at the site due to geographic range overlap and migration flight paths. In the case of this project, the desktop review was incomplete, and the review that was completed was distorted to minimalize the likelihoods of occurrence of special-status species.
In its desktop review, LSA (2025) reportedly queried the California Natural Diversity Data Base (CNDDB) for species occurrence records within USGS Quadrangles abutting to and inclusive of the project site. LSA (2025) does not report having reviewed eBird (https://eBird.org) or iNaturalist (https://www.inaturalist.org), which are additional species occurrence databases. By querying the CNDDB to establish the pool of specialstatus species for analysis of occurrence likelihoods, LSA (2025) screened out many special-status species from further consideration in the characterization of the wildlife community as part of the existing environmental setting. The CNDDB is not designed to support absence determinations or to screen out species from characterization of a site’s wildlife community. As noted by the CNDDB, “The CNDDB is a positive sighting database. It does not predict where something may be found. We map occurrences only where we have documentation that the species was found at the site. There are many areas of the state where no surveys have been conducted and therefore there is nothing on the map. That does not mean that there are no special status species present.” LSA (2025) and hence the Addendum misuse the CNDDB.
The CNDDB relies entirely on volunteer reporting from biologists who were allowed access to whatever properties they report from. Many properties have never been surveyed by biologists. Many properties have been surveyed, but the survey outcomes never reported to the CNDDB. Many properties have been surveyed multiple times, but not all survey outcomes reported to the CNDDB. Furthermore, the CNDDB is interested only in the findings of special-status species, which means that species more recently assigned special status will have been reported many fewer times to the CNDDB than were species assigned special status since the inception of the CNDDB. Therefore, occurrence records in the CNDDB are most abundant for species assigned special status decades ago, but fewest for species only recently assigned special status. And because negative findings are not reported to the CNDDB, the CNDDB is also inappropriate as a basis for weighting occurrence likelihoods such as absent, not expected, unlikely, low, moderate or high. Whereas the CNDDB can be confirmatory of species presence, it cannot support absence determinations or assignments of low likelihood of occurrence.
And again, the screening out of a species due to lack of occurrence records in the CNDDB is the same as an absence determination, and this step is being taken without adequate support of field surveys.
In my assessment based on a database review and a site visit, 139 special-status species of wildlife are known to occur near enough to the site to warrant analysis of occurrence 1-A-12
1-A-13
503
20 potential (Table 2). Of these 139 special-status species, 8 (6%) were recorded on or just off the project site, and another 28 (20%) special-status species have been documented within 1.5 miles of the site (Very close), another 27 (19%) within 1.5 and 4 miles (Nearby), and another 64 (46%) within 4 to 30 miles (In region). Almost half (45%) of the species in Table 2 have been reportedly seen within 4 miles of the project site. The site therefore supports multiple special-status species of wildlife and carries the potential for supporting many more special-status species of wildlife based on the proximities of recorded occurrences. The site is far richer in special-status species than the Addendum would have the reader believe.
Of the 139 special-status species listed in Table 2, the Addendum analyses the occurrence likelihoods of only 34 (24%) of them, all of which are given occurrence likelihoods of “Absent.” Of the species determined to be “absent,” four of them have been observed within 4 miles of the site, and seven of them have been observed within
1.5 miles of the site. Two of the species determined to be “absent,” western yellow bat and monarch, were detected on site by Noriko. The occurrence likelihoods assigned to 34 special-status species fail to comport with the available occurrence records in public databases and with what Noriko saw on the project site. LSA’s and the Addendum’s absence determinations are not credible.
Of the 139 special-status species listed in Table 2, the DEIR fails to analyze the occurrence likelihoods of 75% of them. Of these species not analyzed for occurrence potential, Noriko detected six of them on the project site. LSA’s and the Addendum’s analyses of occurrence likelihoods are incomplete.
An inaccurate baseline characterization of the wildlife community is ill-suited for accurate analysis of project impacts on wildlife, and therefore ill-suited for formulating appropriate mitigation.
Special-status Species
The Addendum presents a profoundly inaccurate analysis of whether special-status species of wildlife occur on the project site. According to the Addendum (p. 2-61), “Due to the absence of suitable habitat on-site and the develop nature of the project vicinity, all of the remaining special-status species identified in the literature search, including the white cuckoo bee (Neolarra alba), are considered absent from the project site and vicinity.” These absence determinations were not supported by protocol-level detection surveys, nor by appropriate interpretation of species occurrence records. And too often they were proven inaccurate.
There is no doubt that eight special-status species of wildlife occur on the project site, including the Monarch which is a candidate for listing under the federal Endangered Species Act. Modeling the rate of species detections during Noriko’s survey, and analytically bridging Noriko’s survey results to a larger research effort, predicts 17 diurnally-active special-status species should be detectable on the project site after a larger survey effort conducted over the period of a year or longer. Indeed, species 1-A-13
cont.
1-A-14
1-A-15
504
21 Table 2. Occurrence likelihoods of special-status bird species at or near the proposed project site, according to eBird/iNaturalist records (https://eBird.org, https://www.inaturalist.org) and on-site survey findings, where ‘Very close’ indicates within 1.5 miles of the site, “nearby” indicates within 1.5 and 4 miles, and “in region” indicates within 4 and 30 miles, and ‘in range’ means the species’ geographic range overlaps the site. Entries in bold font identify species detected by Noriko Smallwood.
Common name Species name Status1
Occurrence potential
LSA
2025
Databases, Site
visits
Vernal pool fairy shrimp Branchinecta lynchi FT In region San Diego fairy shrimp Branchinecta sandiegonensis FE In region Riverside fairy shrimp Streptocephalus woottoni FE In region Delhi sands flower-loving fly Rhaphiomidas terminatus
abdominalis
FE Absent In region
Monarch Danaus plexippus FC Absent Very close/On site
Quino checkerspot butterfly Euphydryas editha quino FE In region Crotch’s bumble bee Bombus crotchii CCE Absent Nearby
Western spadefoot Spea hammondii FC, SSC Absent In region Western pond turtle Emys marmorata FC, SSC Absent In region Blainville’s horned lizard Phrynosoma blainvillii SSC Absent In region Orange-throated whiptail Aspidoscelis hyperythra WL Absent In region Coastal whiptail Aspidoscelis tigris stejnegeri SSC Absent In region San Diegan legless lizard Anniella stebbinsi SSC Absent In region California glossy snake Arizona elegans occidentalis SSC Absent In region Coast patch-nosed snake Salvadora hexalepis virgultea SSC In region Two-striped gartersnake Thamnophis hammondii SSC Absent In region South coast gartersnake Thamnophis sirtalis pop. 1 SSC In region Red-diamond rattlesnake Crotalus ruber SSC Absent Nearby Fulvous whistling-duck Dendrocygna bicolor SSC1 In region Brant Branta bernicla SSC2 In region
Cackling goose (Aleutian) Branta hutchinsii leucopareia WL Nearby Redhead Aythya americana SSC2 Nearby
Western grebe Aechmophorus occidentalis BCC Nearby
Clark’s grebe Aechmophorus clarkii BCC Nearby
Western yellow-billed cuckoo Coccyzus americanus occidentalis FT, CE Absent In region 1-A-15
cont.
505
22 Common name Species name Status
1 Occurrence potential
LSA
2025
Databases, Site
visits
Black swift Cypseloides niger SSC3, BCC In region
Vaux’s swift Chaetura vauxi SSC2 Very close
Calliope hummingbird Selasphorus calliope BCC In region Rufous hummingbird Selasphorus rufus BCC Very close
Allen’s hummingbird Selasphorus sasin BCC Very close/On site Mountain plover Charadrius montanus SSC2, BCC In region Snowy plover Charadrius nivosus BCC In region
Western snowy plover Charadrius nivosus nivosus FT, SSC In region Long-billed curlew Numenius americanus WL Nearby
Marbled godwit Limosa fedoa BCC Nearby
Red knot (Pacific) Calidris canutus BCC In region
Pectoral sandpiper Calidris melanotos BCC Nearby
Short-billed dowitcher Limnodromus griseus BCC In region Lesser yellowlegs Tringa flavipes BCC Nearby
Willet Tringa semipalmata BCC Nearby
Laughing gull Leucophaeus atricilla WL In region
Franklin’s gull Leucophaeus pipixcan BCC In region
Heermann’s gull Larus heermanni BCC In region
Western gull Larus occidentalis BCC In region
California gull Larus californicus BCC, WL Very close
California least tern Sternula antillarum browni FE, CE, CFP In region Black tern Chlidonias niger SSC2, BCC In region
Elegant tern Thalasseus elegans BCC, WL In region
Black skimmer Rynchops niger BCC, SSC3 In region
Common loon Gavia immer SSC In region
Double-crested cormorant Phalacrocorax auritus WL Very close American white pelican Pelacanus erythrorhynchos SSC1 Very close Least bittern Ixobrychus exilis SSC2 In region
Reddish egret Egretta rufescens BCC In region
White-faced ibis Plegadis chihi WL Very close
1-
A-15
cont.
506
23 Common name Species name Status1
Occurrence potential
LSA
2025
Databases, Site
visits
Turkey vulture Cathartes aura BOP Very close
Osprey Pandion haliaetus WL, BOP Nearby
White-tailed kite Elanus luecurus CFP, BOP Absent Very close Golden eagle Aquila chrysaetos BGEPA, CFP, BOP, WL Absent Very close Northern harrier Circus cyaneus BCC, SSC3, BOP Very close Sharp-shinned hawk Accipiter striatus WL, BOP Very close Cooper’s hawk Accipiter cooperii WL, BOP Very close/On site Bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus CE, BGEPA, BOP Nearby Red-shouldered hawk Buteo lineatus BOP Very close
Swainson’s hawk Buteo swainsoni CT, BOP Absent Very close Red-tailed hawk Buteo jamaicensis BOP Very close/Very close Ferruginous hawk Buteo regalis WL, BOP Nearby
Zone-tailed hawk Buteo albonotatus BOP Nearby
Harris’ hawk Parabuteo unicinctus WL, BOP In region
Rough-legged hawk Buteo lagopus BOP In region
American barn owl Tyto furcata BOP Very close
Western screech-owl Megascops kennicotti BOP Nearby
Great horned owl Bubo virginianus BOP Very close/On site Burrowing owl Athene cunicularia BCC, CCE, SSC2, BOP Absent Very close Long-eared owl Asio otus BCC, SSC3, BOP Absent In region Short-eared owl Asia flammeus BCC, SSC3, BOP In region
Lewis’s woodpecker Melanerpes lewis BCC In region
Nuttall’s woodpecker Picoides nuttallii BCC Nearby
American kestrel Falco sparverius BOP Very close/ On site Merlin Falco columbarius WL, BOP Nearby
Peregrine falcon Falco peregrinus BOP Very close
Prairie falcon Falco mexicanus WL, BOP Nearby
Olive-sided flycatcher Contopus cooperi BCC, SSC2 In region Willow flycatcher Empidonax trailii CE Nearby
Southwestern willow flycatcher Empidonax traillii extimus FE, CE Absent In region 1-A-15
cont.
507
24 Common name Species name Status1
Occurrence potential
LSA
2025
Databases, Site
visits
Vermilion flycatcher Pyrocephalus rubinus SSC2 Very close Least Bell’s vireo Vireo bellii pusillus FE, CE Absent Very close Loggerhead shrike Lanius ludovicianus SSC2 Very close
Oak titmouse Baeolophus inornatus BCC Very close
California horned lark Eremophila alpestris actia WL Very close Bank swallow Riparia riparia CT Nearby
Purple martin Progne subis SSC2 Very close
Wrentit Chamaea fasciata BCC Nearby
California gnatcatcher Polioptila c. californica FT, SSC2 Absent In region California thrasher Toxostoma redivivum BCC Very close
Cassin’s finch Haemorhous cassinii BCC In region
Lawrence’s goldfinch Spinus lawrencei BCC Very close
Grasshopper sparrow Ammodramus savannarum SSC2 Absent Nearby Black-chinned sparrow Spizella atrogularis BCC In region Gray-headed junco Junco hyemalis caniceps WL In region
Bell’s sparrow Amphispiza b. belli WL In region
Oregon vesper sparrow Pooecetes gramineus affinis SSC2 In range Southern California rufouscrowned sparrowAimophila ruficeps canescens WL Nearby Yellow-breasted chat Icteria virens SSC3 Absent Nearby
Yellow-headed blackbird Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus SSC3 Nearby Bullock’s oriole Icterus bullockii BCC Very close
Tricolored blackbird Agelaius tricolor CT, BCC, SSC1 Absent Very close Lucy’s warbler Leiothlypis luciae SSC3 In region
Virginia’s warbler Leiothlypis virginiae WL, BCC In region Prothonotary warbler Protonotaria citrea BCC In region
Prairie warbler Setophaga discolor BCC In region
Yellow warbler Setophaga petechia SSC2 Absent Very close Summer tanager Piranga rubra SSC1 Nearby
Little brown bat Myotis lucifugus WBWG: M In range
1-A-15
cont.
508
25 Common name Species name Status1
Occurrence potential
LSA
2025
Databases, Site
visits
Yuma myotis Myotis yumanensis WBWG: LM In region
Long-eared myotis Myotis evotis WBWG: M In region
Fringed myotis Myotis thysanodes WBWG: H In range
Long-legged myotis Myotis volans WBWG: H In range
California myotis Myotis californicus WBWG:L In region
Small-footed myotis Myotis ciliolabrum WBWG: M In range Canyon bat Parastrellus hesperus WBWG: M In region
Big brown bat Episticus fuscus WBWG: L In region
Silver-haired bat Lasionycteris noctivagans WBWG: M In range/On site Hoary bat Lasiurus cinereus WBWG: M In region
Western red bat Lasiurus blossevillii SSC, WBWG: H Absent In region Western yellow bat Lasiurus xanthinus SSC, WBWG: H Absent In region/On site Spotted bat Euderma maculatum SSC, WBWG: H In range
Townsend’s big-eared bat Corynorhinus townsendii SSC, WBWG: H In range Pallid bat Antrozous pallidus SSC, WBWG: H Absent In range Mexican free-tailed bat Tadarida brasiliensis WBWG: L Very close Pocketed free-tailed bat Nyctinomops femorosaccus SSC, WBWG: M Absent In range Western mastiff bat Eumops perotis SSC, WBWG: H Absent In range San Diego black-tailed jackrabbit Lepus californicus bennettii SSC In region Northwestern San Diego pocket
mouse
Chaetodipus fallax fallax SSC Absent In region
Pallid San Diego pocket mouse Chaetodipus fallax pallidus SSC In range Stephens’ kangaroo rat Dipodomys stephensi FE, CT Absent In region Los Angeles pocket mouse Perognathus longimembris
brevinasus
SSC Absent In region
San Diego Bryant’s woodrat Neotoma bryanti SSC Absent In region Southern grasshopper mouse Onychomys torridus ramona SSC In range 1 Listed on Special Animals List (https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=109406) as FT, FE or FC = federal threatened, endangered, or candidate for listing, BCC = US Fish and Wildlife Service Bird of Conservation Concern (https://www.fws.gov/sites/default/files/documents/birds-of-conservation-concern-2021.pdf), CT or CE = California threatened or 1-A-15
cont.
509
26 endangered, CCT or CCE = Candidate California threatened or endangered, CFP = California Fully Protected (California Fish and Game Code 3511), SSC = California Species of Special Concern (not threatened with extinction, but rare, very restricted in range, declining throughout range, peripheral portion of species' range, associated with habitat that is declining in extent, and SSC1, SSC2 and SSC3 = California Bird Species of Special Concern priorities 1, 2 and 3, respectively, WL = Taxa to Watch List, WBWG = Western Bat Working Group with priority rankings, of low (L), moderate (M), and high (H); BOP = protected by Birds of Prey (California Fish and Game Code 3503.5, see https://wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Birds/Raptors); and BGEPA = Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.
1-A-15
cont.
510
27 occurrence records reveal that 36 special-status species of vertebrate wildlife have been detected within 1.5 miles of the site, and 63 have been detected within four miles of the site. The evidence is overwhelming that the project site is important to multiple specialstatus species of wildlife.
The occurrences of eight special-status species observed on the project site by Noriko, and the occurrence records of multiple other special-status species very close to the project site defines the project site as habitat, consistent with the accepted definition of habitat (Hall et al. 1997). These species are using the site for survival and reproduction.
These species are members of the local wildlife community.
BIOLOGICAL IMPACTS ASSESSMENT
Whether the impacts analysis is made by the lead agency or by an expert, the analysis involves prediction. Predictions are necessary because measuring the impacts directly could not happen until after the impacts occur, and this type of measurement would prevent the formulations of avoidance and minimization mitigation strategies that are prioritized by the CEQA. Impact predictions are necessary as part of the environmental review. The accuracy of the predictions of impacts and their significance ultimately relies on the degree of accuracy in the characterization of the existing environmental setting (Figure 3).
Figure 3. General flow of information from the gathering stage through the characterization of the existing environment to predictions of impacts and their significance.
Impact predictions can derive from speculation or from some level of experience (Figure 4). Speculation is repeatedly discouraged in the CEQA Guidelines, and for good reason because prediction accuracy improves with experience. But the experience that can be Assess species occurrence likelihoods
1. Desktop review
a. Species geographic range overlap or database occurrence records b. Crosswalk habitat associations with mapped ground cover
2. Reconnaissance survey/Habitat assessment
3. Detection surveys for special-status species
Outcomes
5. Predict impacts
6. Formulate mitigation strategy
7. Determine significance of impacts
Characterize wildlife community
4. Lists of species detected and of those expected but
not yet detected, and any known trends
Note: Impact predictions and
significance determinations have
been of unknown accuracy in the
absence of experimental
measurement
1-A-15
cont.
1-A-16
511
28 brought to bear on impact predictions ranges from anecdotes to careful use of scientific inference. Any type of experience is usually better than relying on speculation, but careful scientific inference, especially inference drawn from experiments, have proven most effective. An analogy would be predicting the boiling temperature of water at a certain place with a known atmospheric pressure after having measured it hundreds of times at other places under various atmospheric pressures. The experience of measuring the boiling temperature at all these other places would certainly result in a more accurate prediction of the boiling point as compared to a speculative prediction. We know that use of inference in this example is certainly more predictive, and not potentially more predictive, because we have a long successful history with the application of this type of experimentation to draw predictive inference.
Figure 4. A framework for arriving at predicted project impacts based on experience with other project sites. Ideally, there is a pool of similar projects in similar circumstances where predicted impacts were compared to realized impacts, and into which the proposed project can also contribute to experience.
In the following, I analyze several types of impacts likely to result from the project, none of which is adequately analyzed in the Addendum.
REDUCED PRODUCTIVE CAPACITY FROM HABITAT LOSS
Habitat loss results in a reduced productive capacity of affected wildlife species, but the Addendum does not attempt to estimate the numerical or productive capacities of the site for nesting birds. Noriko’s observations prove that the site provides habitat for at least 30 species of wildlife, but the number of avian nest sites remains unknown.
Because Noriko’s surveys were only reconnaissance surveys and therefore unsuitable for Inference
Project site
Preconstruction
study
Predict
project impacts
Preconstruction
studies
Post-construction
studies
Pool of experience
Post-construction
study
Test predictions
1-A-16
cont.
1-A-17
512
29 detecting all bird nests on the site, estimating total nest density of birds was not possible. The alternative method would be to infer productive capacity from estimates of total nest density elsewhere. Noriko has completed several studies to estimate total avian nest density in similar environments in the local area.
Noriko estimated 5.56 nests/acre on a 3.6-acre site of ruderal grassland bordering a woodland strip in Murrieta, and 1.86 nests/acre on another 4.83-acre grassland site bordering a strip of woodland in Murietta. The average of the above two estimates is
3.71 nests/acre. This density applied to the 7.35 acres of the project site would predict 27 nest sites. Due to periodic weed control, the grassland portion of the site might support fewer nests sites per acre than found at Noriko’s study sites, but the trees on the site likely more than make up for any difference. Assuming 1.39 broods per nest site based on a review of 322 North American bird species, which averaged 1.39 broods per year, then I estimate 38 nest attempts per year on the project site. Assuming Young’s (1948) study site typifies bird productivity of 2.9 fledged birds per nest attempt, then I predict 110 fledglings/year at the project site.
The loss of 27 nest sites and 38 nest attempts per year would qualify as significant impacts that have not been analyzed in the Addendum. But the impacts would not end with the immediate loss of nest sites. The reproductive capacity of the site would be lost.
The project would prevent the production of 110 fledglings per year. Assuming an average bird generation time of 4 years, the lost capacity of both breeders and annual fledgling production can be estimated from an equation in Smallwood (2022):
{(nests/year × chicks/nest × number of years) + (2 adults/nest × nests/year) × (number of years ÷ years/generation)} ÷ (number of years) = 124 birds per year denied to California.
The loss of 124 birds per year would be a loss of significant habitat value that is currently provided by the project site. Most if not all these birds are protected by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and by California’s Migratory Bird Protection Act, both of which are intended to most strongly protect breeding migratory birds.
INTERFERENCE WITH WILDLIFE MOVEMENT
One of CEQA’s principal concerns regarding potential project impacts is whether a proposed project would interfere with wildlife movement in the region. Unfortunately, the DEIR provides no serious analysis of the potential for the project to interfere with wildlife movement in the region. LSA (2025:6) claims, “The project site is not in a wildlife corridor, and, being surrounded by dense urban development, would not substantially limit wildlife movement. The Addendum (p. 2-61) claims, “Due to the developed nature of the surrounding properties and distance to open space, the project site does not act as a migratory corridor for wildlife.” However, the species detected on site by Noriko would not have been detected there had their members not moved to the site for its habitat. For many species of wildlife, the project site provides stopover opportunities, and for many others it is a migratory destination. 1-A-17
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30 The Addendum’s focus on whether the site represents a regional wildlife movement corridor is misdirected. The principal phrase of the CEQA question at issue goes to wildlife movement in the region regardless of whether the movement is channeled by a corridor. The CEQA question uses the existence of a corridor as an example of a feature that pertains to wildlife movement in the region, but only a fraction of wildlife movement occurs along corridors,1 most of which are human artefacts of habitat fragmentation (Smallwood 2015). Again, the CEQA question goes to wildlife movement in the region, and not specifically to whether the site is part of, or inclusive of, a corridor.
What was needed, but not provided, was a program of observation to characterize how wildlife use the site for movement in the region. Biologists should have recorded flight paths, especially of birds and bats moving to or from the project site. Biologists know how to detect patterns of wildlife movement; they were just not assigned the task in the case of this environmental review. A consequence is that LSA and the City of Chino can only speculate on whether and how the site is important to wildlife movement in the region. And in this case, the speculation lacks credibility due to Noriko’s observations of wildlife that only got to the project site by moving to it.
TRAFFIC IMPACTS TO WILDLIFE
The Addendum neglects to address one of the project’s most obvious, substantial impacts to wildlife, and that is wildlife mortality and injuries caused by projectgenerated traffic. Project-generated traffic would endanger wildlife that must, for various reasons, cross roads used by the project’s traffic (Photos 26―29), including along roads far from the project footprint but which would nevertheless by traversed by automobiles head to or from the project’s building. Vehicle collisions have accounted for the deaths of many thousands of amphibian, reptile, mammal, bird, and arthropod fauna, and the impacts have often been found to be significant at the population level (Forman et al. 2003). Across North America traffic impacts have taken devastating tolls on wildlife (Forman et al. 2003). In Canada, 3,562 birds were estimated killed per 100 km of road per year (Bishop and Brogan 2013), and the US estimate of avian mortality on roads is 2,200 to 8,405 deaths per 100 km per year, or 89 million to 340 million total per year (Loss et al. 2014). Local impacts can be more intense than nationally. 1 Wildlife are often channeled in their movements by natural features such as streams and valleys, but if all wildlife moved along such features, then predators would always know where to capture prey, and prey would always know where to expect predators. For these reasons, wildlife often move outside of natural corridors. Constructed corridors are different by serving as the only pathways remaining to wildlife in the face of habitat fragmentation (see Smallwood 2015).
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31 Photo 26. A white-tailed
antelope squirrel runs across the
road just in the Coachella Valley,
26 May 2022. Such road
crossings are usually successful,
but too often prove fatal to the
animal.
Photo 27. A coyote uses the
crosswalk to cross a road on 2
February 2023. Not all drivers
stop, nor do all animals use the
crosswalk. Too often, animals
are injured or killed when they
attempt to cross roads.
Photos 28 and 29. Raccoon killed on Road 31 just east of Highway 505 in Solano County (left; photo taken on 10 November 2018), and mourning dove killed by vehicle on a California road (right; photo by Noriko Smallwood, 21 June 2020.) The nearest study of traffic-caused wildlife mortality was performed along a 2.5-mile stretch of Vasco Road in Contra Costa County, California. Fatality searches in this study 1-A-20
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32 found 1,275 carcasses of 49 species of mammals, birds, amphibians and reptiles over 15 months of searches (Mendelsohn et al. 2009). This fatality number needs to be adjusted for the proportion of fatalities that were not found due to scavenger removal and searcher error. This adjustment is typically made by placing carcasses for searchers to find (or not find) during their routine periodic fatality searches. This step was not taken at Vasco Road (Mendelsohn et al. 2009), but it was taken as part of another study next to Vasco Road (Brown et al. 2016). Brown et al.’s (2016) adjustment factors for carcass persistence resembled those of Santos et al. (2011). Also applying searcher detection rates from Brown et al. (2016), the adjusted total number of fatalities was estimated at 9,462 animals killed by traffic on the road. This fatality number projected over 1.25 years and 2.5 miles of road translates to 3,028 wild animals per mile per year. In terms comparable to the national estimates, the estimates from the Mendelsohn et al. (2009) study would translate to 188,191 animals killed per 100 km of road per year, or 22 times that of Loss et al.’s (2014) upper bound estimate and 53 times the Canadian estimate.
An analysis is needed of whether increased traffic generated by the project site would similarly result in local impacts on wildlife.
For wildlife vulnerable to front-end collisions and crushing under tires, road mortality can be predicted from the study of Mendelsohn et al. (2009) as a basis, although it would be helpful to have the availability of more studies like that of Mendelsohn et al. (2009) at additional locations. My analysis of the Mendelsohn et al. (2009) data resulted in an estimated 3,028 animals killed per mile along a county road in Contra Costa County. The estimated numbers of fatalities were 1.75% birds, 26.4% mammals (many mice and pocket mice, but also ground squirrels, desert cottontails, striped skunks, American badgers, raccoons, and others), 67.4% amphibians (large numbers of California tiger salamanders and California red-legged frogs, but also Sierran treefrogs, western toads, arboreal salamanders, slender salamanders and others), and 4.4% reptiles (many western fence lizards, but also skinks, alligator lizards, and snakes of various species). VMT is useful for predicting wildlife mortality because I was able to quantify miles traveled along the studied reach of Vasco Road during the time period of the Mendelsohn et al. (2009), hence enabling a rate of fatalities per VMT that can be projected to other sites, assuming similar collision fatality rates.
Predicting project-generated traffic impacts to wildlife The Addendum’s Air Quality analysis predicts 1,013,614 annual VMT for the warehouse and 897,716 annual VMT for the retail portion of the project, or a total 1,911,330 annual VMT generated by the project. During the Mendelsohn et al. (2009) study, 19,500 cars traveled Vasco Road daily, so the vehicle miles that contributed to my estimate of nonvolant fatalities was 19,500 cars and trucks × 2.5 miles × 365 days/year × 1.25 years = 22,242,187.5 vehicle miles per 9,462 wildlife fatalities, or 2,351 vehicle miles per fatality.
This rate divided into the predicted annual VMT would predict 813 vertebrate wildlife fatalities per year due to project-generated traffic. Assuming wildlife abundance is lower in the vicinity of the project site as compared to Vasco Road in Contra Costa County, collision mortality could also be assumed lower. However, even if it is 75% lower, the predicted mortality would be 203 wildlife fatalities per year, which would still be many 1-A-20
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33 fatalities, the impact of which the Addendum has not analyzed nor formulated mitigation.
Based on my analysis, the project-generated traffic would cause substantial, significant impacts to wildlife. The Addendum does not address this potential impact, let alone propose to mitigate it. Mitigation measures to improve wildlife safety along roads are available and are feasible, and they need exploration for their suitability with the proposed project. Given the predicted level of project-generated traffic-caused mortality, and the lack of any proposed mitigation, it is my opinion that the proposed project would result in potentially significant adverse biological impacts, and that, as the Addendum is currently written, these impacts would be unmitigated.
CUMULATIVE IMPACTS
The CEQA Guidelines state that “an EIR shall discuss cumulative impacts of a project when the project’s incremental effect is cumulatively considerable, as defined in section 15065 (a)(3).” Incremental effects are those in combination with related effects of other projects. Additionally, the Guidelines state, “The discussion of cumulative impacts shall reflect the severity of the impacts and their likelihood of occurrence…” The Guidelines describe two general approaches to analyzing cumulative impacts, one approach consisting of a listing of past, ongoing, planned and foreseeable future projects. Despite the CEQA’s stated requirements and despite the suggested approaches to analysis, the Addendum provides no analysis of potential project contributions to cumulative impacts related to biological resources.
Given the extent of habitat fragmentation in the region, leaving the open space of the project site as one of the last sizable patches of wildlife habitat within miles, the project’s contribution to cumulative habitat destruction would be consequential. Habitat fragmentation acts as a multiplier of the adverse effects of simple habitat loss (Smallwood 2015), but the loss of one of the final habitat patches vastly expands the magnitude of the multiplied effect. This added effect of the loss of the last patches of habitat in severely fragmented settings is evident in a study summarized below.
In collaboration with Noriko Smallwood, I measured the impacts – inclusive of cumulative impacts – of wildlife habitat loss that was caused by mitigated development projects. We revisited 80 sites of proposed projects that we had originally surveyed in support of comments on the CEQA review documents (Smallwood and Smallwood 2023). We revisited the sites to repeat the survey methods at the same time of year, the same start time in the day, and the same methods and survey duration to measure the effects of mitigated development on wildlife. We structured the experiment in a beforeafter, control-impact experimental design, as some of the sites had been developed since our initial survey and some had remained undeveloped. We found that mitigated development resulted in a 66% loss of species on site, and 48% loss of species in the project area. Counts of vertebrate animals declined 90%. “Development impacts measured by the mean number of species detected per survey were greatest for amphibians (-100%), followed by mammals (-86%), grassland birds (-75%), raptors (-53%), special-status species (-49%), all birds as a group (-48%), non-native birds 1-A-20
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34 (-44%), and synanthropic birds (-28%). Our results indicated that urban development substantially reduced vertebrate species richness and numerical abundance, even after richness and abundance had likely already been depleted by the cumulative effects of loss, fragmentation, and degradation of habitat in the urbanizing environment,” and despite all the mitigation measures per existing laws, policies and regulations. We also specifically tested for the cumulative effects of projects on wildlife in neighboring habitats, and found significant decreases in species richness and overall abundance in those areas as well. Regarding the effects of losing the last remaining patches of habitat in a region, as discussed above, Figure 12 of Smallwood and Smallwood (2023) shows the added effect, which was significant and very substantial. The proposed project would cause severe declines in wildlife abundance and species richness in the region, as has been measured elsewhere.
MITIGATION MEASURES
Before I comment specifically on the mitigation strategy, I will repeat that the formulation of an appropriate mitigation strategy can follow only from an adequate survey effort for wildlife on and around the project site. The characterizations of the plant and wildlife communities need to be sufficiently accurate to accurately characterize the existing environmental setting. This accuracy is needed to formulate the appropriate mitigation strategy.
The Addendum refers to measures in the Preserve Master Plan EIR to reduce impacts to migratory birds and raptors, and to measures in the Edgewater Communities EIR. The Addendum is ambiguous about whether these measures would be required, but these measures are the only mitigation measures presented in the Addendum. Because these measures were formulated to mitigate the impacts of other projects, it would be inappropriate to rely on them to mitigate impacts of the proposed project. The mitigation strategies in the referenced EIR were not designed or intended to mitigate the impacts of additional projects.
Below I summarize each of the Preserve Master Plan EIR and Edgewater Communities EIR measures in italics, followed by my comment(s) in regular font.
The Preserve Master Plan EIR:
♦ Conservation Area. A 300-acre conservation area will be established to provide burrowing owl habitat. A weed removal program will be established for this area to create high-quality raptor foraging habitat. Twenty artificial burrowing owl nesting sites will be constructed on the site. Stands of trees will be planted to provide burrowing owl habitat.
The Addendum does not identify the location or status of this 300-acre conservation area. It does not disclose whether burrowing owls already occur on the conservation area, nor how the owls there are faring. There is no explanation how the weed removal program would create high-quality raptor foraging habitat. 1-A-21
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1-A-22
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35 The construction of 20 artificial burrowing owl nest boxes would not help to conserve burrowing owls. I have monitored many such artificial nest sites and found that their benefits to burrowing owls last no longer than a few years, after which time the owls decline as the boxes are destroyed by neglect and predators (Smallwood and Morrison 2018, 2024).
Contrary to the statement in the measure, the planting of stands of trees would not provide burrowing owl habitat. While burrowing owls occasionally nest under or near trees, stands of trees are not burrowing owl habitat. As the stands of trees mature, the burrowing owls would disappear, just as I have witnessed before. ♦ Relocation. If burrowing owls are found on any development site, the developer will be required to follow CDFG burrowing owl relocation protocols, including the creation of artificial burrows.
The burrowing owl is a candidate for listing under California’s Endangered Species Act.
An incidental take permit would be needed. To obtain this permit, the City of Chino would need to consult with the CDFW before taking any other actions that could affect burrowing owls. Relocation would probably not be permitted. ♦ Existing Windrows. Existing windrows that provide raptor habitat will be incorporated into the design of future development wherever practical. If incorporated windrows are not practical, the developer will provide replacement windrow trees as specified by an ornithologist specializing in raptor biology. … Although the mitigation measures listed above would potentially reduce the effects of development on raptors, including burrowing owls, The Preserve Master Plan EIR finds that this impact would remain significant after mitigation.
The planting of windrow trees would not benefit burrowing owls, and would instead pose an added threat to burrowing owls. But the project, as planned, includes no plan to plant windrow trees, and doing so in the context of the project would add no habitat value to burrowing owls. This measure is irrelevant to burrowing owls that might occur on the project site.
Edgewater Communities EIR:
♦ Establish 30 acres of restored native grassland habitat as a conservation easement and deed it to a land stewardship organization.
The Addendum does not identify where these 30 acres would be located, whether they already support burrowing owls, and how the acreage would be managed for burrowing owls.
♦ Provide a planting plan to establish and manage vegetation for three detention basins and perimeter slopes.
1-A-23
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1-A-24
1-A-25
519
36 This measure might be relevant to the Edgewater Communities project, but not to the Chino Gateway project.
♦ Avoid burrowing owls by 75 meters during the nesting season and by 50 meters outside of the nesting season. Do not disturb occupied burrows during the nesting season.
This measure is irrelevant. The burrowing owl is a candidate for listing under California’s Endangered Species Act. An incidental take permit would be needed. To obtain this permit, the City of Chino would need to consult with the CDFW before taking any other actions that could affect burrowing owls.
♦ Use passive relocation techniques if burrowing owls must be moved away from disturbance areas.
The burrowing owl is a candidate for listing under California’s Endangered Species Act.
An incidental take permit would be needed. To obtain this permit, the City of Chino would need to consult with the CDFW before taking any other actions that could affect burrowing owls. Relocation would probably not be permitted. ♦ Conduct a 30-day preconstruction survey for burrowing owls to map all occupied burrows and develop a strategy to avoid harm resulting from project construction.
This measure would be out of sequence to the steps recommended in CDFW (2012). The survey guidelines specify that detection surveys need to be completed prior to preconstruction survey.
♦ Submit a burrowing owl relocation and habitat management plan prior to passive relocation.
The burrowing owl is a candidate for listing under California’s Endangered Species Act.
An incidental take permit would be needed. To obtain this permit, the City of Chino would need to consult with the CDFW before taking any other actions that could affect burrowing owls. Relocation would probably not be permitted.
RECOMMENDED MEASURES
Habitat loss: Should the project go forward, compensatory mitigation is needed for the loss of habitat. Habitat of equal or greater area should be protected as close to the project site as feasible.
Road Mortality: Compensatory mitigation is needed for the increased wildlife mortality that would be caused by the project-generated road traffic in the region. I suggest that this mitigation can be directed toward funding research to identify fatality patterns and effective impact reduction measures such as reduced speed limits and wildlife under-crossings or overcrossings of particularly dangerous road segments. 1-A-25
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1-A-26
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37 Compensatory mitigation can also be provided in the form of donations to wildlife rehabilitation facilities (see below).
Fund Wildlife Rehabilitation Facilities: Compensatory mitigation ought also to include funding contributions to wildlife rehabilitation facilities to cover the costs of injured animals that will be delivered to these facilities for care. Many animals would likely be injured by collisions with automobiles traveling to and from the buildings.
Landscaping: If the project goes forward, California native plant landscaping (i.e., grassland and locally appropriate scrub plants) should be considered to be used as opposed to landscaping with lawn and exotic shrubs and trees. Native plants offer more structure, cover, food resources, and nesting substrate for wildlife than landscaping with lawn and ornamental trees. Native plant landscaping has been shown to increase the abundance of arthropods which act as importance sources of food for wildlife and are crucial for pollination and plant reproduction (Narango et al. 2017, Adams et al. 2020, Smallwood and Wood 2022.). Further, many endangered and threated insects require native host plants for reproduction and migration, e.g., monarch butterfly. Around the world, landscaping with native plants over exotic plants increases the abundance and diversity of birds, and is particularly valuable to native birds (Lerman and Warren 2011, Burghardt et al. 2008, Berthon et al. 2021, Smallwood and Wood 2022). Landscaping with native plants is a way to maintain or to bring back some of the natural habitat and lessen the footprint of urbanization by acting as interconnected patches of habitat for wildlife (Goddard et al. 2009, Tallamy 2020). Lastly, not only does native plant landscaping benefit wildlife, it requires less water and maintenance than traditional landscaping with lawn and hedges.
Thank you for your consideration,
______________________
Shawn Smallwood, Ph.D.
LITERATURE CITED
Adams, B. J., E. Li, C. A. Bahlai, E. K. Meineke, T. P. McGlynn, and B. V. Brown. 2020.
Local and landscape-scale variables shape insect diversity in an urban biodiversity hot spot. Ecological Applications 30(4):e02089. 10.1002/eap.2089 Berthon, K., F. Thomas, and S. Bekessy. 2021. The role of ‘nativenes’ in urban greening to support animal biodiversity. Landscape and Urban Planning 205:103959. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.landurbplan.2020.103959
Bishop, C. A. and J. M. Brogan. 2013. Estimates of avian mortality attributed to vehicle collisions in Canada. Avian Conservation and Ecology 8:2. http://dx.doi.org/10.5751/ACE-00604-080202.
1-A-27
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1-A-28
1-A-29
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38 Brown, K., K. S. Smallwood, J. Szewczak, and B. Karas. 2016. Final 2012-2015 Report Avian and Bat Monitoring Project Vasco Winds, LLC. Prepared for NextEra Energy Resources, Livermore, California.
Burghardt, K. T., D. W. Tallamy, and W. G. Shriver. 2008. Impact of native plants on bird and butterfly biodiversity in suburban landscapes. Conservation Biology 23:219- 224.
CDFW (California Department of Fish and Wildlife). 2012. Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation. Sacramento, California.
Calvert, A. M., C. A. Bishop, R. D. Elliot, E. A. Krebs, T. M. Kydd, C. S. Machtans, and G.
J. Robertson. 2013. A synthesis of human-related avian mortality in Canada. Avian Conservation and Ecology 8(2): 11. http://dx.doi.org/10.5751/ACE-00581-080211 Forman, T. T., D. Sperling, J. A. Bisonette, A. P. Clevenger, C. D. Cutshall, V. H. Dale, L.
Fahrig, R. France, C. R. Goldman, K. Heanue, J. A. Jones, F. J. Swanson, T.
Turrentine, and T. C. Winter. 2003. Road Ecology. Island Press, Covello, California.
Franzeb, K. E. 1978. Breeding bird densities, species composition, and bird species diversity of the Algodones Dunes. Western Birds 9:9-20.
Goddard, M. A., A. J. Dougill, and T. G. Benton. 2009. Scaling up from gardens:
biodiversity conservation in urban environments. Trends in Ecology and Evolution 25:90-98. doi:10.1016/j.tree.2009.07.016
Hall, L. S., P. R. Krausman, and M. L. Morrison. 1997. The habitat concept and a plea for standard terminology. Wildlife Society Bulletin 25:173-82.
Lerman, S. B. and P. S. Warren. 2011. The conservation value of residential yards:
linking birds and people. Ecological Applications 21:1327-1339.
Loss, S. R., T. Will, and P. P. Marra. 2014. Estimation of bird-vehicle collision mortality on U.S. roads. Journal of Wildlife Management 78:763-771.
LSA. 2025. Biological Resources Assessment for the Chino Gateway Terminal Project in Chino (LSA Project No. 20241860). Letter Report to Annie Tavetian Gallagher, HK Ventures Inc., Chino Hills, California.
Mendelsohn, M., W. Dexter, E. Olson, and S. Weber. 2009. Vasco Road wildlife movement study report. Report to Contra Costa County Public Works Department, Martinez, California.
Narango, D. L., D. W. Tallamy, and P. P. Marra. 2017. Native plants improve breeding and foraging habitat for an insectivorous bird. Biological Conservation 213:42-50. 522
39 Santos, S. M., F. Carvalho, and A. Mira. 2011. How long do the dead survive on the road? Carcass persistence probability and implications for road-kill monitoring surveys.
PLoS ONE 6(9): e25383. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0025383 Smallwood, K. S. 2015. Habitat fragmentation and corridors. Pages 84-101 in M. L.
Morrison and H. A. Mathewson, Eds., Wildlife habitat conservation: concepts, challenges, and solutions. John Hopkins University Press, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
Smallwood, K. S. 2022. Utility-scale solar impacts to volant wildlife. Journal of Wildlife Management: e22216. https://doi.org/10.1002/jwmg.22216
Smallwood, K. S. and M. L. Morrison. 2018. Nest-site selection in a high-density colony of burrowing owls. Journal of Raptor Research 52:454-470.
Smallwood, K. S. and M. L. Morrison. 2024. Burrowing owls require mutualist species and ample interior habitat space. Diversity 2024, 16, 590. https://doi.org/10.3390/d16090590
Smallwood, K. S., and N. L. Smallwood. 2023. Measured effects of anthropogenic development on vertebrate wildlife diversity. Diversity 15, 1037. https://doi.org/10.3390/d15101037.
Smallwood, N.L. and E.M. Wood. 2022. The ecological role of native plant landscaping in residential yards to urban wildlife. Ecosphere 2022;e4360.
Tallamy, D.W. 2020. Nature’s Best Hope: A New Approach to Conservation that Starts in Your Yard. Timber Press.
Wood, E. M., and S. Esaian. 2020. The importance of street trees to urban avifauna.
Ecological Applications. 0:e02149.
Young, H. 1948. A comparative study of nesting birds in a five-acre park. The Wilson Bulletin 61:36-47.
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1 Kenneth Shawn Smallwood
Curriculum Vitae
3108 Finch Street Born May 3, 1963 in
Davis, CA 95616 Sacramento, California.
Phone (530) 756-4598 Married, father of two.
Cell (530) 601-6857
[email protected]
Ecologist
Expertise
• Finding solutions to controversial problems related to wildlife interactions with human industry, infrastructure, and activities;
• Wildlife monitoring and field study using GPS, thermal imaging, behavior surveys; • Using systems analysis and experimental design principles to identify meaningful ecological patterns that inform management decisions.
Education
Ph.D. Ecology, University of California, Davis. September 1990.
M.S. Ecology, University of California, Davis. June 1987.
B.S. Anthropology, University of California, Davis. June 1985.
Corcoran High School, Corcoran, California. June 1981.
Experience
477 professional publications, including:
81 peer reviewed publications
24 in non-reviewed proceedings
370 reports, declarations, posters and book reviews
8 in mass media outlets
87 public presentations of research results at meetings Reviewed many professional papers and reports
Testified in 4 court cases.
Editing for scientific journals: Guest Editor, Wildlife Society Bulletin, 2012-2013, of invited papers representing international views on the impacts of wind energy on wildlife and how to mitigate the impacts. Associate Editor, Journal of Wildlife Management, March 2004 to 30 June 2007.
Editorial Board Member, Environmental Management, 10/1999 to 8/2004. Associate Editor, Biological Conservation, 9/1994 to 9/1995.
Member, Alameda County Scientific Review Committee (SRC), August 2006 to April 2011. The 524
Smallwood CV 2
five-member committee investigated causes of bird and bat collisions in the Altamont Pass Wind Resource Area, and recommended mitigation and monitoring measures. The SRC reviewed the science underlying the Alameda County Avian Protection Program, and advised the County on how to reduce wildlife fatalities.
Consulting Ecologist, 2004-2007, California Energy Commission (CEC). Provided consulting services as needed to the CEC on renewable energy impacts, monitoring and research, and produced several reports. Also collaborated with Lawrence-Livermore National Lab on research to understand and reduce wind turbine impacts on wildlife.
Consulting Ecologist, 1999-2013, U.S. Navy. Performed endangered species surveys, hazardous waste site monitoring, and habitat restoration for the endangered San Joaquin kangaroo rat, California tiger salamander, California red-legged frog, California clapper rail, western burrowing owl, salt marsh harvest mouse, and other species at Naval Air Station Lemoore; Naval Weapons Station, Seal Beach, Detachment Concord; Naval Security Group Activity, Skaggs Island; National Radio Transmitter Facility, Dixon; and, Naval Outlying Landing Field Imperial Beach.
Fulbright Research Fellow, Indonesia, 1988. Tested use of new sampling methods for numerical monitoring of Sumatran tiger and six other species of endemic felids, and evaluated methods used by other researchers.
Peer Reviewed Publications
Smallwood, K. S. 2017. Long search intervals under-estimate bird and bat fatalities caused by wind turbines. Wildlife Society Bulletin 41:224-230.
Smallwood, K. S. 2017. The challenges of addressing wildlife impacts when repowering wind energy projects. Pages 175-187 in Köppel, J., Editor, Wind Energy and Wildlife Impacts:
Proceedings from the CWW2015 Conference. Springer. Cham, Switzerland.
May, R., Gill, A. B., Köppel, J. Langston, R. H.W., Reichenbach, M., Scheidat, M., Smallwood, S., Voigt, C. C., Hüppop, O., and Portman, M. 2017. Future research directions to reconcile wind turbine–wildlife interactions. Pages 255-276 in Köppel, J., Editor, Wind Energy and Wildlife Impacts: Proceedings from the CWW2015 Conference. Springer. Cham, Switzerland.
Smallwood, K. S. 2017. Monitoring birds. M. Perrow, Ed., Wildlife and Wind Farms - Conflicts and Solutions, Volume 2. Pelagic Publishing, Exeter, United Kingdom. www.bit.ly/2v3cR9Q Smallwood, K. S., L. Neher, and D. A. Bell. 2017. Siting to Minimize Raptor Collisions: an example from the Repowering Altamont Pass Wind Resource Area. M. Perrow, Ed., Wildlife and Wind Farms - Conflicts and Solutions, Volume 2. Pelagic Publishing, Exeter, United Kingdom. www.bit.ly/2v3cR9Q
Johnson, D. H., S. R. Loss, K. S. Smallwood, W. P. Erickson. 2016. Avian fatalities at wind energy facilities in North America: A comparison of recent approaches. Human–Wildlife Interactions 10(1):7-18.
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Sadar, M. J., D. S.-M. Guzman, A. Mete, J. Foley, N. Stephenson, K. H. Rogers, C. Grosset, K. S.
Smallwood, J. Shipman, A. Wells, S. D. White, D. A. Bell, and M. G. Hawkins. 2015. Mange Caused by a novel Micnemidocoptes mite in a Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos). Journal of Avian Medicine and Surgery 29(3):231-237.
Smallwood, K. S. 2015. Habitat fragmentation and corridors. Pages 84-101 in M. L. Morrison and H. A. Mathewson, Eds., Wildlife habitat conservation: concepts, challenges, and solutions. John Hopkins University Press, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
Mete, A., N. Stephenson, K. Rogers, M. G. Hawkins, M. Sadar, D. Guzman, D. A. Bell, J. Shipman, A. Wells, K. S. Smallwood, and J. Foley. 2014. Emergence of Knemidocoptic mange in wild Golden Eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) in California. Emerging Infectious Diseases 20(10):1716- 1718.
Smallwood, K. S. 2013. Introduction: Wind-energy development and wildlife conservation.
Wildlife Society Bulletin 37: 3-4.
Smallwood, K. S. 2013. Comparing bird and bat fatality-rate estimates among North American wind-energy projects. Wildlife Society Bulletin 37:19-33. + Online Supplemental Material.
Smallwood, K. S., L. Neher, J. Mount, and R. C. E. Culver. 2013. Nesting Burrowing Owl Abundance in the Altamont Pass Wind Resource Area, California. Wildlife Society Bulletin:
37:787-795.
Smallwood, K. S., D. A. Bell, B. Karas, and S. A. Snyder. 2013. Response to Huso and Erickson Comments on Novel Scavenger Removal Trials. Journal of Wildlife Management 77: 216-225.
Bell, D. A., and K. S. Smallwood. 2010. Birds of prey remain at risk. Science 330:913.
Smallwood, K. S., D. A. Bell, S. A. Snyder, and J. E. DiDonato. 2010. Novel scavenger removal trials increase estimates of wind turbine-caused avian fatality rates. Journal of Wildlife Management 74: 1089-1097 + Online Supplemental Material.
Smallwood, K. S., L. Neher, and D. A. Bell. 2009. Map-based repowering and reorganization of a wind resource area to minimize burrowing owl and other bird fatalities. Energies 2009(2):915- 943. http://www.mdpi.com/1996-1073/2/4/915
Smallwood, K. S. and B. Nakamoto. 2009. Impacts of West Nile Virus Epizootic on Yellow-Billed Magpie, American Crow, and other Birds in the Sacramento Valley, California. The Condor 111:247-254.
Smallwood, K. S., L. Rugge, and M. L. Morrison. 2009. Influence of Behavior on Bird Mortality in Wind Energy Developments: The Altamont Pass Wind Resource Area, California. Journal of Wildlife Management 73:1082-1098.
Smallwood, K. S. and B. Karas. 2009. Avian and Bat Fatality Rates at Old-Generation and 526
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Repowered Wind Turbines in California. Journal of Wildlife Management 73:1062-1071.
Smallwood, K. S. 2008. Wind power company compliance with mitigation plans in the Altamont Pass Wind Resource Area. Environmental & Energy Law Policy Journal 2(2):229-285.
Smallwood, K. S., C. G. Thelander. 2008. Bird Mortality in the Altamont Pass Wind Resource Area, California. Journal of Wildlife Management 72:215-223.
Smallwood, K. S. 2007. Estimating wind turbine-caused bird mortality. Journal of Wildlife Management 71:2781-2791.
Smallwood, K. S., C. G. Thelander, M. L. Morrison, and L. M. Rugge. 2007. Burrowing owl mortality in the Altamont Pass Wind Resource Area. Journal of Wildlife Management 71:1513- 1524.
Cain, J. W. III, K. S. Smallwood, M. L. Morrison, and H. L. Loffland. 2005. Influence of mammal activity on nesting success of Passerines. J. Wildlife Management 70:522-531.
Smallwood, K.S. 2002. Habitat models based on numerical comparisons. Pages 83-95 in Predicting species occurrences: Issues of scale and accuracy, J. M. Scott, P. J. Heglund, M.
Morrison, M. Raphael, J. Haufler, and B. Wall, editors. Island Press, Covello, California.
Morrison, M. L., K. S. Smallwood, and L. S. Hall. 2002. Creating habitat through plant relocation:
Lessons from Valley elderberry longhorn beetle mitigation. Ecological Restoration 21: 95-100.
Zhang, M., K. S. Smallwood, and E. Anderson. 2002. Relating indicators of ecological health and integrity to assess risks to sustainable agriculture and native biota. Pages 757-768 in D.J.
Rapport, W.L. Lasley, D.E. Rolston, N.O. Nielsen, C.O. Qualset, and A.B. Damania (eds.), Managing for Healthy Ecosystems, Lewis Publishers, Boca Raton, Florida USA.
Wilcox, B. A., K. S. Smallwood, and J. A. Kahn. 2002. Toward a forest Capital Index. Pages 285- 298 in D.J. Rapport, W.L. Lasley, D.E. Rolston, N.O. Nielsen, C.O. Qualset, and A.B. Damania (eds.), Managing for Healthy Ecosystems, Lewis Publishers, Boca Raton, Florida USA.
Smallwood, K.S. 2001. The allometry of density within the space used by populations of Mammalian Carnivores. Canadian Journal of Zoology 79:1634-1640.
Smallwood, K.S., and T.R. Smith. 2001. Study design and interpretation of Sorex density estimates. Annales Zoologi Fennici 38:141-161.
Smallwood, K.S., A. Gonzales, T. Smith, E. West, C. Hawkins, E. Stitt, C. Keckler, C. Bailey, and K. Brown. 2001. Suggested standards for science applied to conservation issues. Transactions of the Western Section of the Wildlife Society 36:40-49.
Geng, S., Yixing Zhou, Minghua Zhang, and K. Shawn Smallwood. 2001. A Sustainable Agroecological Solution to Water Shortage in North China Plain (Huabei Plain). Environmental Planning and Management 44:345-355.
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Smallwood, K. Shawn, Lourdes Rugge, Stacia Hoover, Michael L. Morrison, Carl Thelander. 2001.
Intra- and inter-turbine string comparison of fatalities to animal burrow densities at Altamont Pass. Pages 23-37 in S. S. Schwartz, ed., Proceedings of the National Avian-Wind Power Planning Meeting IV. RESOLVE, Inc., Washington, D.C.
Smallwood, K.S., S. Geng, and M. Zhang. 2001. Comparing pocket gopher (Thomomys bottae) density in alfalfa stands to assess management and conservation goals in northern California.
Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment 87: 93-109.
Smallwood, K. S. 2001. Linking habitat restoration to meaningful units of animal demography.
Restoration Ecology 9:253-261.
Smallwood, K. S. 2000. A crosswalk from the Endangered Species Act to the HCP Handbook and real HCPs. Environmental Management 26, Supplement 1:23-35.
Smallwood, K. S., J. Beyea and M. Morrison. 1999. Using the best scientific data for endangered species conservation. Environmental Management 24:421-435.
Smallwood, K. S. 1999. Scale domains of abundance among species of Mammalian Carnivora.
Environmental Conservation 26:102-111.
Smallwood, K.S. 1999. Suggested study attributes for making useful population density estimates.
Transactions of the Western Section of the Wildlife Society 35: 76-82.
Smallwood, K. S. and M. L. Morrison. 1999. Estimating burrow volume and excavation rate of pocket gophers (Geomyidae). Southwestern Naturalist 44:173-183.
Smallwood, K. S. and M. L. Morrison. 1999. Spatial scaling of pocket gopher (Geomyidae) density. Southwestern Naturalist 44:73-82.
Smallwood, K. S. 1999. Abating pocket gophers (Thomomys spp.) to regenerate forests in clearcuts. Environmental Conservation 26:59-65.
Smallwood, K. S. 1998. Patterns of black bear abundance. Transactions of the Western Section of the Wildlife Society 34:32-38.
Smallwood, K. S. 1998. On the evidence needed for listing northern goshawks (Accipter gentilis) under the Endangered Species Act: a reply to Kennedy. J. Raptor Research 32:323-329.
Smallwood, K. S., B. Wilcox, R. Leidy, and K. Yarris. 1998. Indicators assessment for Habitat Conservation Plan of Yolo County, California, USA. Environmental Management 22: 947-958.
Smallwood, K. S., M. L. Morrison, and J. Beyea. 1998. Animal burrowing attributes affecting hazardous waste management. Environmental Management 22: 831-847.
Smallwood, K. S, and C. M. Schonewald. 1998. Study design and interpretation for mammalian 528
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carnivore density estimates. Oecologia 113:474-491.
Zhang, M., S. Geng, and K. S. Smallwood. 1998. Nitrate contamination in groundwater of Tulare County, California. Ambio 27(3):170-174.
Smallwood, K. S. and M. L. Morrison. 1997. Animal burrowing in the waste management zone of Hanford Nuclear Reservation. Proceedings of the Western Section of the Wildlife Society Meeting 33:88-97.
Morrison, M. L., K. S. Smallwood, and J. Beyea. 1997. Monitoring the dispersal of contaminants by wildlife at nuclear weapons production and waste storage facilities. The Environmentalist 17:289-295.
Smallwood, K. S. 1997. Interpreting puma (Puma concolor) density estimates for theory and management. Environmental Conservation 24(3):283-289.
Smallwood, K. S. 1997. Managing vertebrates in cover crops: a first study. American Journal of Alternative Agriculture 11:155-160.
Smallwood, K. S. and S. Geng. 1997. Multi-scale influences of gophers on alfalfa yield and quality. Field Crops Research 49:159-168.
Smallwood, K. S. and C. Schonewald. 1996. Scaling population density and spatial pattern for terrestrial, mammalian carnivores. Oecologia 105:329-335.
Smallwood, K. S., G. Jones, and C. Schonewald. 1996. Spatial scaling of allometry for terrestrial, mammalian carnivores. Oecologia 107:588-594.
Van Vuren, D. and K. S. Smallwood. 1996. Ecological management of vertebrate pests in agricultural systems. Biological Agriculture and Horticulture 13:41-64.
Smallwood, K. S., B. J. Nakamoto, and S. Geng. 1996. Association analysis of raptors on an agricultural landscape. Pages 177-190 in D.M. Bird, D.E. Varland, and J.J. Negro, eds., Raptors in human landscapes. Academic Press, London.
Erichsen, A. L., K. S. Smallwood, A. M. Commandatore, D. M. Fry, and B. Wilson. 1996. Whitetailed Kite movement and nesting patterns in an agricultural landscape. Pages 166-176 in D. M.
Bird, D. E. Varland, and J. J. Negro, eds., Raptors in human landscapes. Academic Press, London.
Smallwood, K. S. 1995. Scaling Swainson's hawk population density for assessing habitat-use across an agricultural landscape. J. Raptor Research 29:172-178.
Smallwood, K. S. and W. A. Erickson. 1995. Estimating gopher populations and their abatement in forest plantations. Forest Science 41:284-296.
Smallwood, K. S. and E. L. Fitzhugh. 1995. A track count for estimating mountain lion Felis 529
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concolor californica population trend. Biological Conservation 71:251-259 Smallwood, K. S. 1994. Site invasibility by exotic birds and mammals. Biological Conservation 69:251-259.
Smallwood, K. S. 1994. Trends in California mountain lion populations. Southwestern Naturalist 39:67-72.
Smallwood, K. S. 1993. Understanding ecological pattern and process by association and order.
Acta Oecologica 14(3):443-462.
Smallwood, K. S. and E. L. Fitzhugh. 1993. A rigorous technique for identifying individual mountain lions Felis concolor by their tracks. Biological Conservation 65:51-59.
Smallwood, K. S. 1993. Mountain lion vocalizations and hunting behavior. The Southwestern Naturalist 38:65-67.
Smallwood, K. S. and T. P. Salmon. 1992. A rating system for potential exotic vertebrate pests.
Biological Conservation 62:149-159.
Smallwood, K. S. 1990. Turbulence and the ecology of invading species. Ph.D. Thesis, University of California, Davis.
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EXHIBIT B
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September 10, 2025
Lozeau Drury LLP
1939 Harrison Street, Suite 150
Oakland, CA 94612
Attn: Ms. Victoria Yundt
Subject: Comment Letter on Addendum To The City Of Chino General Plan Environmental Impact Report, City of
Chino, CA. SCH No. 2008091064
Dear Ms. Yundt:
At the request of Lozeau Drury LLP (Lozeau Drury), Clark and Associates (Clark) has reviewed materials related to the above referenced project.
Clark’s review of the materials in no way constitutes a validation of the conclusions or materials contained within the Addendum to the GP-EIR. If we do not comment on a specific item, this does not constitute acceptance of the item.
Project Description:
In 2010, the City certified the City of Chino General Plan Environmental Impact Report (GPEIR), State Clearinghouse No. 2008091064, for the City of Chino General Plan (General Plan). The Chino Gateway Terminal Project (herein referred to as the “project,” or “proposed project,”) consists of a 158,548 square-foot warehouse and a 3,520 square-foot multi-tenant restaurant building on a 7.35-acre project site at 5885 Schaefer Avenue in Chino. The Project would include 128 passenger vehicle parking spaces, 10 truck parking spaces, 20 loading Clark & Associates
Environmental Consulting, Inc.
OFFICE
12405 Venice Blvd
Suite 331
Los Angeles, CA 90066
PHONE
310-907-6165
EMAIL
[email protected]
Comment
LeƩ er
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docks, and 1 ground-level roll-up door. Development of the project site for industrial uses was evaluated programmatically in the GPEIR because specific details of a project-specific development on the site were not known at the time of certification of the GPEIR. According to the Addendum, the purpose for creating the Addendum was to analyze any potential differences between the impacts identified in the GPEIR for buildout of the General Plan and impacts that would be associated with the proposed project.
Project Location: The project site is southwest of the Schaefer Avenue and Oaks Avenue intersection in Chino, western San Bernardino County, California. The project site is in Section 13 of Township 2 South, Range 8 West of the San Bernardino Baseline and Meridian, as depicted on the United States Geological Survey 7.5-minute series Ontario, California quadrangle.5 Specifically, the center of the project site is at latitude 34°00'13.60" N and longitude 117°40’38.31" W at an elevation of 697 feet above mean sea level and consists of four parcels (Assessor’s Parcel Numbers 1021-052- 04, 1021-052-06, 1021-052-09, and 1021-052-11).
Access to the project site is provided via three existing driveways along Oaks Avenue that facilitate access to the church and one of the former residential properties, and five existing driveways along Schaefer Avenue, one of which serves the church, two of which serve the former residential property west of the church, and two of which lead to the vacant lot on the western portion of the site.
The Project Site is designated as light industrial (L1) in the general plan and (M1) light industrial in the zoning district.
The City Municipal Code does not include maximum building heights for the M1 zoning district; therefore, in accordance with Section 504.3 (Height in feet) of the California Building Code (CBC), the height of the proposed buildings would not exceed 75 feet. The warehouse building would reach a maximum height of approximately 47 feet. The multi-tenant restaurant building would reach a maximum height of approximately 25 feet.
The warehouse building would be a concrete tilt-up building with a contemporary architectural design, consisting of various exterior materials including spandrel glass and metal accents. Building design would use vertical and horizontal lines and color and material changes to provide visual relief and varied massing. Solar photovoltaic panels would be installed in collective arrangements on the project site such that the total power generated would augment 80 percent of the project’s power needs.
The proposed project is anticipated to generate up to 72 employees, with 18 employees generated by the restaurant uses and 54 employees generated by the warehouse use. The hours of 1-B-2
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operation for 10 the proposed facilities include 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. 7 days per week for the restaurant tenants and 24 hours per day and 7 days per week for the industrial tenant.
Figure 1: Project Site Location
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Construction of the project is anticipated to commence in October 2025 and finish in late 2026, resulting in a total construction duration of approximately 14 months. Construction activities would include the emolition of three existing buildings and associated ancillary structures (totaling 17,716 square feet), pavement, and fencing, and removal of all existing vegetation. Construction would also include grading, paving, and construction of the proposed buildings and parking areas. Construction would also include the installation of perimeter fencing and screen walls, landscaping, lighting, curb, gutter, sidewalk, and utility interconnections within the Oaks Avenue and Schaefer Avenue ROWs.
During grading, on-site soils would be excavated and recompacted in accordance with the CBC to accommodate the proposed buildings, drive aisles, and parking areas. Construction equipment anticipated to be used includes bulldozers, loaders/backhoes, scrapers, cranes, forklifts, rollers, concrete pumps, and paving equipment equipped with Tier 2 or better engines and Level 3 diesel particulate filters.
Figure 2: Conceptual Site Plan
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The air quality analysis for the Project assumes that construction of the proposed project is anticipated over a period of 14 months, beginning in October 2025 and ending in late 2026.
Construction activities include demolition of three existing buildings and associated ancillary structures (totaling 17,716 square feet). Construction equipment anticipated to be used includes bulldozers, loaders/backhoes, scrapers, cranes, forklifts, rollers, concrete pumps, and paving equipment. The CalEEMod analysis assumed that construction equipment would use Tier 2 engines with Level 3 diesel particulate filters. In addition, the proposed project would result in a cut of approximately 112 cubic yards of soil for export. Default CalEEMod parameters were used for remaining construction details, such as construction equipment, construction worker and truck trips, and fleet activities.
This conclusion that no mitigation measures are required for air quality impacts is in conflict with the facts provided within the Addendum to the EIR.
Specific Comments:
1. The Air Quality Analysis Of The Operational Phase Of The Project Fails To Include Back-Up Generators And Fire Pumps In The Analysis.
To be compliant with the California Fire Code (CFC) and local fire authorities, the Project will be required to install fire pump systems and are likely to have a back-up generator (BUG) onsite. The fire pump and BUG will need to be tested and maintained annually. Under the California Air Resources Board (CARB) Airborne Toxic Control Measure (ATCM) for Stationary Compression Ignition Engines Guidance, the District may allow a new stationary emergency standby diesel-fueled Cl engine (> 50 hp) to operate up to 100 hours per year for maintenance and testing purposes on a sitespecific basis, provided the diesel PM emission rate is less than or equal to 0.01 g/bhp-hr. In addition to the testing emissions the air quality analysis in the IS must include the substantial increase in operational emissions from BUGs in the Air Basin due to unscheduled events, including but not limited to Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events and extreme heat events. Nowhere in the City’s analysis of the operational emissions of stationary equipment (i.e., fire pumps and or BUGs) or emissions from those sources included in the CalEEMOD analysis. 1-B-2
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Figure 3: CalEEMOD Analysis Of Operational Emissions
This failure to include the emissions from the fire pumps and BUGS are a significant unaddressed emission source for the Project. The City’s analysis is therefore incomplete and must be corrected in a revised addendum to the EIR for the Project.
2. The City’s Cumulative Impact Analysis Fails To Incorporate A Quantitative Analysis To The Substantial Impacts From Nearby Warehouse Projects.
The Project is located within the South Coast Air Quality Management District’s (SCAQMD’s) boundaries, an area currently in non-attainment for ozone (O3), respirable particles (PM10), and fine particulate matter (PM2.5). The City1concludes that “the project would not 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. Impacts are less than significant, and there is no new information requiring the preparation of an EIR or new or more severe impact beyond that previously identified in the GPEIR.” Within 5 kilometers of the project site, there are 167 existing warehouse projects totaling 25,011,300 square feet, with an additional nine (9) vacant warehouses covering 1,288,700 square feet. 1 LSA 2025. Addendum to GP-EIR. Pg 2-49.
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Figure 4: Existing And Approved Warehouse Projects Near Project According to data from the Redford Conservancy at Pitzer College and Radical Research LLC (presented on the Warehouse CITY website)2, the existing projects generate 17,000 daily truck trips, producing 23.5 pounds (lbs) of diesel particulate matter (DPM) and 2,649 lbs of oxides of nitrogen (NOx) per day. The Project itself will further contribute to air pollution during both construction and operation.
The cumulative analysis demonstrates that the Project will exacerbate regional issues with ozone and particulate matter, introducing additional toxic air contaminants (TACs) to an already impacted area. The City has concluded that no mitigation measures are required for the air quality impacts, yet it is clear that the cumulative air quality and public health impacts from the Project have not been fully evaluated and appropriately mitigated, providing transparency and protection for the public.
3. The Project Site Is Located In The Top 11% Of Zipcodes In California For Exposure To Air Pollutants, The Top 7% For Exposure To PM2.5, And Is In The Top 12% Of Zipcodes In The South Coast Air Basin For Exposure To Diesel Particulate Matter 2 Warehouse City v. 1.21. Accessed September 10, 2025. https://radicalresearch.shinyapps.io/WarehouseCITY/ Project Site
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The Project Site is located in census tract 6071000504 (zip code 91710). Using the Office of Environmental Health and Hazard Assessment’s (OEHHA’s) California Communities Environmental Health Screening Tool Version·4.0 (CalEnviroScreen) it is possible to assess the existing concerns for the census tract in which the Project is located.
Figure 5: Enviroscreen 4.0 Map Of Project Site
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Based on the CalEnviroScreen summary of zipcode 91070, it is clear that the area is in the top 11% of all communities in the State of California impacted by pollution.
According to the SCAQMD’s Multiple Air Toxics Exposure Study (MATES) study, zip code 91070 (the location of the Project Site) has a cumulative cancer risk of 607 in 1 million placing it in the top 12% of communities in the South Coast Air Basin (SCAB) impacted by TACs.
Figure 5: MATES Cancer Risk Analysis Of Project Location Increasing the number of sources of ozone precursors within the community via the construction of the Project will exacerbate pollution levels, resulting in a substantially greater health burden on the community which the Addendum to the EIR fails to disclose.
4. The Project May Result in Significant Health Risk to Construction Workers and Nearby Residences from Exposure to Valley Fever.
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Given the proximity of the Project Site to nearby residential receptors to the west of the Site, it is clear that sensitive receptors as well as workers at the project site could be exposed to Valley Fever (Coccidiodes imimitis) from fugitive dust generated during construction.
Figure 6: Construction Schedule
According to the CalEEMod model provided in the Air Quality Analysis, the Project will involve 30 days of site preparation and grading. During that time approximately 35.0 acres will be disturbed during the site preparation and grading phases. These activities will release large quantities of dust.
Figure 7: Earthmoving Activities
Dust exposure is a primary risk factor for contracting Valley Fever (via Coccidiodes imimitis (cocci) exposure). When soil containing the cocci spores are disturbed by construction activities, 1-B-6
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the fungal spores become airborne, exposing construction workers and other nearby sensitive receptors.
The fungus lives in the top 2 to 12 inches of soil. When soil containing this fungus is disturbed by activities such as digging, vehicles, construction activities, dust storms, or during earthquakes, the fungal spores become airborne. The most at-risk populations are construction and agricultural workers.3 Here, construction workers are the population that would be most directly exposed by the Project. A refereed journal article on occupational exposures notes that “[l]abor groups where occupation involves close contact with the soil are at greater risk, especially if the work involves dusty digging operations.”4
The potentially exposed population in surrounding areas is much larger than construction workers because the nonselective raising of dust during Project construction will carry the very small spores, 0.002–0.005 millimeters (“mm”), into nonendemic areas, potentially exposing large nonProject-related populations.5 ,
6 These very small particles are not controlled by conventional construction dust control mitigation measures.
Recent data from the California Department of Public Health underscore the severity of this public health issue. Since 2016, the number of cases of Valley Fever in San Bernardino County has increased from 1.8 per 100,000 in 2016 to 10.5 in 2022 (an increase of 583%).7 In 2021, the number 3 Lawrence L. Schmelzer and R. Tabershaw, Exposure Factors in Occupational Coccidioidomycosis, American Journal of Public Health and the Nation’s Health, v. 58, no. 1, 1968, pp. 107–113, Table 3; available at http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1228046/?page=1. 4 Ibid., p. 110.
5 Schmelzer and Tabershaw, 1968, p. 110; Pappagianis and Einstein, 1978 6 Pappagianis and Einstein, 1978, p. 527 (“The northern areas were not directly affected by the ground level windstorm that had struck Kern County but the dust was lifted to several thousand feet elevation and, borne on high currents, the soil and arthrospores along with some moisture were gently deposited on sidewalks and automobiles as ‘a mud storm’ that vexed the residents of much of California.” The storm originating in Kern County, for example, had major impacts in the San Francisco Bay Area and Sacramento).
7 CDPH. 2022. Epidemiologic Summary of Valley Fever (Coccidiodomycosis) In California, 2022. Surveillance and Statistics Section, Infection Diseases Branch, Division of Communicable Disease Control, Center For Infectious Diseases, 1-B-6
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of cases of Valley Fever in San Bernardino County reached a high of 250 cases. In the first 8 months of 2024, San Bernardino County reported 210 cases, representing a nearly 552% increase over the baseline year of 2016 in only three quarters of the year. Since Valley Fever cases are directly related to the disturbance of soils in the area, the City must directly address the impacts that the project’s construction phase will have on the community.
A study in Antelope Valley identified a clear link between soil disturbance - due to largescale renewable energy construction projects, agricultural management practices and PM10 fugitive dust emissions - and increased incidence of coccidioidomycosis.8 Figure 8: Valley Fever Incidence And Soil Disturbance
It is evident from the figure above that, as the number of acres of soil in the Antelope Valley were disturbed, the incidence rate of Valley Fever also increased. The mass disturbance of soils California Department of Public Health.
https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/CDPH%20Document%20Library/CocciEpiSummary2022.pdf 8 Colson. 2017. Large-Scale Land Development, Fugitive Dust, and Increased Coccidioidomycosis Incidence in the Antelope Valley of California, 1999-2014. https://knowthecause.com/wpcontent/uploads/2017/03/Colson2017FugitiveDustCoccidiodes.pdf 1-B-6
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anticipated by the proposed Project will create the same conditions that were detailed in the study by Colson. 9
According to research on Valley Fever, outbreaks in populations with intense exposure to aerosolized arthroconidia are at greater risk for infection.10 These groups include agricultural or construction workers, or persons who participate in outdoor activities such as hunting or digging in the soil. Outbreaks of coccidioidomycosis have been linked to a variety of activities involving disturbance of impacted soils.
11,12,13,14
Since Valley Fever cases are directly related to the disturbance of soils in the area, the City must directly address the impacts that the project’s construction phase will have on the community.
Valley Fever often manifests as a mild respiratory illness, but it can progress to serious chronic forms, especially in immunocompromised individuals, and may even become disseminated, 9 ibid
10 Frederick S. Fisher, Mark W. Bultman, and Demosthenes Pappagianis, Operational Guidelines (version 1.0) for Geological Fieldwork in Areas Endemic for Coccidioidomycosis (Valley Fever), U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 00-348, 2000, pp. 5, 7; https://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2000/0348/pdf/of00-348.pdf. 11 Brown. Et al. 2013. Coccidioidomycosis: epidemiology. Clinical Epidemiology. 5:185-197. 12 Rafael Laniado-Laborin, Expanding Understanding of Epidemiology of Coccidioidomycosis in the Western Hemisphere, Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, v. 111, 2007, pp. 20–22, available at https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1196/annals.1406.004; Frederick S. Fisher, Mark W. Bultman, Suzanne M. Johnson, Demosthenes Pappagianis, and Erik Zaborsky, Coccidioides Niches and Habitat Parameters in the Southwestern United States, a Matter of Scale, Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, v. 111, 2007, pp. 47–72 (“All of the examined soil locations are noteworthy as generally 50% of the individuals who were exposed to the dust or were excavating dirt at the sites were infected.”), available at https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1196/annals.1406.031. 13 Lawrence L. Schmelzer and R. Tabershaw, Exposure Factors in Occupational Coccidioidomycosis, American Journal of Public Health and the Nation’s Health, v. 58, no. 1, 1968, pp. 107–113, Table 3; available at http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1228046/?page=1. 14 Frederick S. Fisher, Mark W. Bultman, and Demosthenes Pappagianis, Operational Guidelines (version 1.0) for Geological Fieldwork in Areas Endemic for Coccidioidomycosis (Valley Fever), U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 00-348, 2000, pp. 5, 7; https://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2000/0348/pdf/of00-348.pdf. 1-B-6
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impacting organs including the skin, bones, brain, and spinal cord. Disseminated Valley Fever is associated with severe symptoms like meningitis, painful lesions, and swollen joints.
As shown above, the risk that nearby residences would be exposed to Valley Fever disturbed during Project construction is substantial. This risk would not be mitigated by Rule 403 standard dust control measures, as discussed in the Addendum to the EIR, because the measures do not consider the drift of spores from a Project Site to the adjacent residential structures.
The City should require that the Applicant implement mitigation measures to actively suppress the spread of Valley Fever by implementing the following methods:
1. Include specific requirements in the Project’s Injury and Illness Prevention Program (as required by Title 8, Section 3203) regarding safeguards to prevent Valley Fever.
2. Control dust exposure:
- Rule 403 requires application of nontoxic chemical soil stabilizers according to manufacturers’ specifications to inactive construction areas. Additionally, chemical stabilizers should be applied at least 24-hours prior to high wind event. - In addition to Rule 403’s requirement to apply water to all disturbed areas a minimum of three times per day, watering frequency should be increased to a minimum of four times per day if there is any evidence of visible wind-driven fugitive dust.
- Provide National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)-approved respirators for workers with a prior history of Valley Fever. - Half-face respirators equipped with a minimum N-95 protection factor for use during worker collocation with surface disturbance activities. Half-face respirators equipped with N-100 or P-100 filters should be used during digging activities. Employees should wear respirators when working near earth-moving machinery.
- Prohibit eating and smoking at the worksite, and provide separate, clean eating areas with hand-washing facilities.
- Avoid outdoor construction operations during unusually windy conditions or in dust storms.
- Consider limiting outdoor construction during the fall to essential jobs only, as the 1-B-6
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risk of cocci infection is higher during this season.
3. Prevent transport of cocci outside endemic areas:
- Thoroughly clean equipment, vehicles, and other items before they are moved offsite to other work locations. - Prevent spillage or loss of bulk material from holes or other openings in the cargo compartment’s floor, sides, and/or tailgate.
- Load all haul trucks such that the freeboard is not less than six inches when material is transported on any paved public access road and apply water to the top of the load sufficient to limit VDE to 20 percent opacity; or cover haul trucks with a tarp or other suitable cover.
- Provide workers with coveralls daily, lockers (or other systems for keeping work and street clothing and shoes separate), daily changing and showering facilities. - Clothing should be changed after work every day, preferably at the work site. - Train workers to recognize that cocci may be transported offsite on contaminated equipment, clothing, and shoes; alternatively, consider installing boot-washing. - Post warnings onsite and consider limiting access to visitors, especially those without adequate training and respiratory protection.
4. Improve medical surveillance for employees:
- Employees should have prompt access to medical care, including suspected workrelated illnesses and injuries. - Work with a medical professional to develop a protocol to medically evaluate employees who have symptoms of Valley Fever.
- Consider preferentially contracting with 1-2 clinics in the area and communicate with the health care providers in those clinics to ensure that providers are aware that Valley Fever has been reported in the area. This will increase the likelihood that ill workers will receive prompt, proper and consistent medical care. - Respirator clearance should include medical evaluation for all new employees, annual re-evaluation for changes in medical status, and annual training, and fittesting. 1-B-6
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- Skin testing is not recommended for evaluation of Valley Fever.15 - If an employee is diagnosed with Valley Fever, a physician must determine if the employee should be taken off work, when they may return to work, and what type of work activities they may perform.
The City must disclose the risk of Valley Fever exposure as a significant impact and should adopt these evidence-based mitigation measures – proven effective in similar construction projects in endemic areas – in a revised addendum to the EIR to ensure comprehensive protection of public health.
Standard dust control measures are insufficient for preventing Valley Fever exposure, and only concrete, enforceable steps like those listed above will safeguard both onsite workers and surrounding communities.
The City should also add a requirement to offer filtration for the residences near the Project Site.
The use of minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) 16 filters on the residences nearby would reduce exposure to the spores by as much as 95 percent (95%). Given that the Project will be directly responsible for the generation of the spores into the local environment it is reasonable that they provide the necessary mitigation measures for the surrounding community. This measure should be included in an EIR for the Project.
5. The City Fails To Account For The Potential Hazards From Battery Storage On Site.
According to the Addendum to the EIR, “Solar photovoltaic panels would be installed in collective arrangements on the project site such that the total power generated would augment 80 percent of the project’s power needs.” The Addendum to the EIR fails to include any information regarding the capacity of the battery storage system or the type of batteries to be deployed at the site.
The City’s failure to include any specifications of the battery systems results in the failure to analyze the particular hazards presented by the presence of such infrastructure. Frequently identified hazards from battery storage systems include thermal runaway, off-gassing, and stranded energy, along with 15 Short-term skin tests that produce results within 48 hours are now available. See Kerry Klein, NPR for Central California, New Valley Fever Skin Test Shows Promise, But Obstacles Remain, November 21, 2016; available at http://kvpr.org/post/new-valley-fever-skin-test-shows-promise-obstacles-remain. 1-B-6
cont.
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discharges of hazardous chemicals from the batteries themselves. • Thermal runaway - Thermal runaway is the uncontrollable self-heating of a battery cell. It begins when the heat generated within a battery exceeds the amount of heat that can be dissipated to its surroundings. The initial overheated cell then generates flammable and toxic gasses and can reach a heat high enough to ignite those gasses. This phenomenon can cascade to adjacent cells and progress through the battery energy storage system (BESS), thus the term “runaway”.
• Off Gassing – The gasses that ae released from battery energy storage systems are highly flammable and toxic. The type of gas released depends on the battery chemistry involved but typically includes gases such as: carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrogen, methane, ethane, and other hydrocarbons. If the gas is able to reach it’s lower explosive limit before finding an ignition source then there is the potential for an explosion • Stranded Energy – Standard energy is the term used for when a battery has no safe way of discharging its stored energy. This commonly occurs after an BESS fire has been extinguished and the battery terminals have been damaged. This is a shock hazard to those working with the damaged BESS since it still contains an unknown amount of electrical energy. Stranded energy can also lead to reignition of a fire within minute, hours, or even days after the initial event.
Additionally, the environmental impacts from the placement of batteries in the environment needs to be assessed. Specifically, environmental impacts can lead to battery failure. This can be the result of ambient temperature extremes, seismic activity, floods, ingress of debris or corrosive mists such as dust (deserts) or salt fog (marine locations), or rodent damage to wiring. Rapid temperature variations that exist in the foothills of the Sacramento Valley can result in dewing leading to damage within the battery storage systems located outdoors if not well-controlled. The Addendum to the EIR fails to include any meaningful information regarding the proposed battery storage systems. The City must prepare a revised addendum to the EIR to analyze and mitigate the foreseeable environmental impacts from the use of battery storage at the Project site. 1-B-7
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Conclusion
The facts identified and referenced in this comment letter lead me to reasonably conclude that the Project could result in significant impacts if allowed to proceed. A revised addendum to the EIR should be prepared to address these substantial concerns.
Sincerely,
1-B-8
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James J. J. Clark, Ph.D.
Principal Toxicologist
Toxicology/Exposure Assessment Modeling
Risk Assessment/Analysis/Dispersion Modeling
Education:
Ph.D., Environmental Health Science, University of California, 1995 M.S., Environmental Health Science, University of California, 1993 B.S., Biophysical and Biochemical Sciences, University of Houston, 1987 Professional Experience:
Dr. Clark is a well recognized toxicologist, air modeler, and health scientist. He has 20 years of experience in researching the effects of environmental contaminants on human health including environmental fate and transport modeling (SCREEN3, AEROMOD, ISCST3, Johnson-Ettinger Vapor Intrusion Modeling); exposure assessment modeling (partitioning of contaminants in the environment as well as PBPK modeling); conducting and managing human health risk assessments for regulatory compliance and risk-based clean-up levels; and toxicological and medical literature research.
Significant projects performed by Dr. Clark include the following:
LITIGATION SUPPORT
Case: James Harold Caygle, et al, v. Drummond Company, Inc. Circuit Court for the Tenth Judicial Circuit, Jefferson County, Alabama. Civil Action. CV-2009 Client: Environmental Litgation Group, Birmingham, Alabama Dr. Clark performed an air quality assessment of emissions from a coke factory located in Tarrant, Alabama. The assessment reviewed include a comprehensive review of air quality standards, measured concentrations of pollutants from factory, an inspection of the facility and detailed assessment of the impacts on the community. The results of the assessment and literature have been provided in a declaration to the court.
Clark & Associates
Environmental Consulting, Inc
OFFICE
12405 Venice Blvd.
Suite 331
Los Angeles, CA 90066
PHONE
310-907-6165
FAX
310-398-7626
EMAIL
[email protected]
550
Case Result: Settlement in favor of plaintiff.
Case: Rose Roper V. Nissan North America, et al. Superior Court of the State Of California for the County Of Los Angeles – Central Civil West. Civil Action.
NC041739
Client: Rose, Klein, Marias, LLP, Long Beach, California Dr. Clark performed a toxicological assessment of an individual occupationally exposed to multiple chemicals, including benzene, who later developed a respiratory distress. A review of the individual’s medical and occupational history was performed to prepare an exposure assessment. The exposure assessment was evaluated against the known outcomes in published literature to exposure to respiratory irritants. The results of the assessment and literature have been provided in a declaration to the court.
Case Result: Settlement in favor of plaintiff.
Case: O’Neil V. Sherwin Williams, et al. United States District Court Central District of California
Client: Rose, Klein, Marias, LLP, Long Beach, California Dr. Clark performed a toxicological assessment of an individual occupationally exposed to petroleum distillates who later developed a bladder cancer. A review of the individual’s medical and occupational history was performed to prepare a quantitative exposure assessment. The results of the assessment and literature have been provided in a declaration to the court.
Case Result: Summary judgment for defendants.
Case: Moore V., Shell Oil Company, et al. Superior Court of the State Of California for the County Of Los Angeles
Client: Rose, Klein, Marias, LLP, Long Beach, California Dr. Clark performed a toxicological assessment of an individual occupationally exposed to chemicals while benzene who later developed a leukogenic disease. A review of the individual’s medical and occupational history was performed to prepare a quantitative exposure assessment. The exposure assessment was evaluated against the known outcomes in published literature to exposure to refined petroleum hydrocarbons. The results of the assessment and literature have been provided in a declaration to the court. 551
Case Result: Settlement in favor of plaintiff.
Case: Raymond Saltonstall V. Fuller O’Brien, KILZ, and Zinsser, et al. United States District Court Central District of California
Client: Rose, Klein, Marias, LLP, Long Beach, California Dr. Clark performed a toxicological assessment of an individual occupationally exposed to benzene who later developed a leukogenic disease. A review of the individual’s medical and occupational history was performed to prepare a quantitative exposure assessment. The exposure assessment was evaluated against the known outcomes in published literature to exposure to refined petroleum hydrocarbons. The results of the assessment and literature have been provided in a declaration to the court.
Case Result: Settlement in favor of plaintiff.
Case: Richard Boyer and Elizabeth Boyer, husband and wife, V. DESCO Corporation, et al. Circuit Court of Brooke County, West Virginia. Civil Action Number 04-C-7G.
Client: Frankovitch, Anetakis, Colantonio & Simon, Morgantown, West Virginia.
Dr. Clark performed a toxicological assessment of a family exposed to chlorinated solvents released from the defendant’s facility into local drinking water supplies. A review of the individual’s medical and occupational history was performed to prepare a qualitative exposure assessment. The exposure assessment was evaluated against the known outcomes in published literature to exposure to chlorinated solvents. The results of the assessment and literature have been provided in a declaration to the court.
Case Result: Settlement in favor of plaintiff.
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Case: JoAnne R. Cook, V. DESCO Corporation, et al. Circuit Court of Brooke County, West Virginia. Civil Action Number 04-C-9R
Client: Frankovitch, Anetakis, Colantonio & Simon, Morgantown, West Virginia.
Dr. Clark performed a toxicological assessment of an individual exposed to chlorinated solvents released from the defendant’s facility into local drinking water supplies. A review of the individual’s medical and occupational history was performed to prepare a qualitative exposure assessment. The exposure assessment was evaluated against the known outcomes in published literature to exposure to chlorinated solvents. The results of the assessment and literature have been provided in a declaration to the court.
Case Result: Settlement in favor of plaintiff.
Case: Patrick Allen And Susan Allen, husband and wife, and Andrew Allen, a minor, V. DESCO Corporation, et al. Circuit Court of Brooke County, West Virginia. Civil Action Number 04-C-W
Client: Frankovitch, Anetakis, Colantonio & Simon, Morgantown, West Virginia.
Dr. Clark performed a toxicological assessment of a family exposed to chlorinated solvents released from the defendant’s facility into local drinking water supplies. A review of the individual’s medical and occupational history was performed to prepare a qualitative exposure assessment. The exposure assessment was evaluated against the known outcomes in published literature to exposure to chlorinated solvents. The results of the assessment and literature have been provided in a declaration to the court.
Case Result: Settlement in favor of plaintiff.
Case: Michael Fahey, Susan Fahey V. Atlantic Richfield Company, et al. United States District Court Central District of California Civil Action Number CV-06 7109 JCL.
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Client: Rose, Klein, Marias, LLP, Long Beach, California Dr. Clark performed a toxicological assessment of an individual occupationally exposed to refined petroleum hydrocarbons who later developed a leukogenic disease. A review of the individual’s medical and occupational history was performed to prepare a qualitative exposure assessment. The exposure assessment was evaluated against the known outcomes in published literature to exposure to refined petroleum hydrocarbons.
The results of the assessment and literature have been provided in a declaration to the court.
Case Result: Settlement in favor of plaintiff.
Case: Constance Acevedo, et al., V. California Spray-Chemical Company, et al., Superior Court of the State Of California, County Of Santa Cruz. Case No. CV 146344
Dr. Clark performed a comprehensive exposure assessment of community members exposed to toxic metals from a former lead arsenate manufacturing facility. The former manufacturing site had undergone a DTSC mandated removal action/remediation for the presence of the toxic metals at the site. Opinions were presented regarding the elevated levels of arsenic and lead (in attic dust and soils) found throughout the community and the potential for harm to the plaintiffs in question.
Case Result: Settlement in favor of defendant.
Case: Michael Nawrocki V. The Coastal Corporation, Kurk Fuel Company, Pautler Oil Service, State of New York Supreme Court, County of Erie, Index Number I2001-11247
Client: Richard G. Berger Attorney At Law, Buffalo, New York Dr. Clark performed a toxicological assessment of an individual occupationally exposed to refined petroleum hydrocarbons who later developed a leukogenic disease. A review of the individual’s medical and occupational history was performed to prepare a qualitative exposure assessment. The exposure assessment was evaluated against the 554
known outcomes in published literature to exposure to refined petroleum hydrocarbons.
The results of the assessment and literature have been provided in a declaration to the court.
Case Result: Judgement in favor of defendant.
SELECTED AIR MODELING RESEARCH/PROJECTS
Client – Confidential
Dr. Clark performed a comprehensive evaluation of criteria pollutants, air toxins, and particulate matter emissions from a carbon black production facility to determine the impacts on the surrounding communities. The results of the dispersion model will be used to estimate acute and chronic exposure concentrations to multiple contaminants and will be incorporated into a comprehensive risk evaluation.
Client – Confidential
Dr. Clark performed a comprehensive evaluation of air toxins and particulate matter emissions from a railroad tie manufacturing facility to determine the impacts on the surrounding communities. The results of the dispersion model have been used to estimate acute and chronic exposure concentrations to multiple contaminants and have been incorporated into a comprehensive risk evaluation.
Client – Los Angeles Alliance for a New Economy (LAANE), Los Angeles, California
Dr. Clark is advising the LAANE on air quality issues related to current flight operations at the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) operated by the Los Angeles World Airport (LAWA) Authority. He is working with the LAANE and LAX staff to develop a comprehensive strategy for meeting local community concerns over emissions from flight operations and to engage federal agencies on the issue of local impacts of community airports.
555
Client – City of Santa Monica, Santa Monica, California Dr. Clark is advising the City of Santa Monica on air quality issues related to current flight operations at the facility. He is working with the City staff to develop a comprehensive strategy for meeting local community concerns over emissions from flight operations and to engage federal agencies on the issue of local impacts of community airports.
Client: Omnitrans, San Bernardino, California
Dr. Clark managed a public health survey of three communities near transit fueling facilities in San Bernardino and Montclair California in compliance with California Senate Bill 1927. The survey included an epidemiological survey of the effected communities, emission surveys of local businesses, dispersion modeling to determine potential emission concentrations within the communities, and a comprehensive risk assessment of each community. The results of the study were presented to the Governor as mandated by Senate Bill 1927.
Client: Confidential, San Francisco, California
Summarized cancer types associated with exposure to metals and smoking. Researched the specific types of cancers associated with exposure to metals and smoking. Provided causation analysis of the association between cancer types and exposure for use by non-public health professionals.
Client: Confidential, Minneapolis, Minnesota
Prepared human health risk assessment of workers exposed to VOCs from neighboring petroleum storage/transport facility. Reviewed the systems in place for distribution of petroleum hydrocarbons to identify chemicals of concern (COCs), prepared comprehensive toxicological summaries of COCs, and quantified potential risks from carcinogens and non-carcinogens to receptors at or adjacent to site. This evaluation was used in the support of litigation.
Client – United Kingdom Environmental Agency
Dr. Clark is part of team that performed comprehensive evaluation of soil vapor intrusion of VOCs from former landfill adjacent residences for the United Kingdom’s Environment 556
Agency. The evaluation included collection of liquid and soil vapor samples at site, modeling of vapor migration using the Johnson Ettinger Vapor Intrusion model, and calculation of site-specific health based vapor thresholds for chlorinated solvents, aromatic hydrocarbons, and semi-volatile organic compounds. The evaluation also included a detailed evaluation of the use, chemical characteristics, fate and transport, and toxicology of chemicals of concern (COC). The results of the evaluation have been used as a briefing tool for public health professionals.
EMERGING/PERSISTENT CONTAMINANT RESEARCH/PROJECTS
Client: Ameren Services, St. Louis, Missouri
Managed the preparation of a comprehensive human health risk assessment of workers and residents at or near an NPL site in Missouri. The former operations at the Property included the servicing and repair of electrical transformers, which resulted in soils and groundwater beneath the Property and adjacent land becoming impacted with PCB and chlorinated solvent compounds. The results were submitted to U.S. EPA for evaluation and will be used in the final ROD.
Client: City of Santa Clarita, Santa Clarita, California Dr. Clark is managing the oversight of the characterization, remediation and development activities of a former 1,000 acre munitions manufacturing facility for the City of Santa Clarita. The site is impacted with a number of contaminants including perchlorate, unexploded ordinance, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The site is currently under a number of regulatory consent orders, including an Immanent and Substantial Endangerment Order. Dr. Clark is assisting the impacted municipality with the development of remediation strategies, interaction with the responsible parties and stakeholders, as well as interfacing with the regulatory agency responsible for oversight of the site cleanup.
Client: Confidential, Los Angeles, California
Prepared comprehensive evaluation of perchlorate in environment. Dr. Clark evaluated the production, use, chemical characteristics, fate and transport, toxicology, and remediation of perchlorate. Perchlorates form the basis of solid rocket fuels and have recently been detected in water supplies in the United States. The results of this research 557
were presented to the USEPA, National GroundWater, and ultimately published in a recent book entitled Perchlorate in the Environment.
Client – Confidential, Los Angeles, California
Dr. Clark is performing a comprehensive review of the potential for pharmaceuticals and their by-products to impact groundwater and surface water supplies. This evaluation will include a review if available data on the history of pharmaceutical production in the United States; the chemical characteristics of various pharmaceuticals; environmental fate and transport; uptake by xenobiotics; the potential effects of pharmaceuticals on water treatment systems; and the potential threat to public health. The results of the evaluation may be used as a briefing tool for non-public health professionals.
PUBLIC HEALTH/TOXICOLOGY
Client: Brayton Purcell, Novato, California
Dr. Clark performed a toxicological assessment of residents exposed to methyl-tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) from leaking underground storage tanks (LUSTs) adjacent to the subject property. The symptomology of residents and guests of the subject property were evaluated against the known outcomes in published literature to exposure to MTBE. The study found that residents had been exposed to MTBE in their drinking water; that concentrations of MTBE detected at the site were above regulatory guidelines; and, that the symptoms and outcomes expressed by residents and guests were consistent with symptoms and outcomes documented in published literature.
Client: Confidential, San Francisco, California
Identified and analyzed fifty years of epidemiological literature on workplace exposures to heavy metals. This research resulted in a summary of the types of cancer and non-cancer diseases associated with occupational exposure to chromium as well as the mortality and morbidity rates.
Client: Confidential, San Francisco, California
Summarized major public health research in United States. Identified major public health research efforts within United States over last twenty years. Results were used as a briefing tool for non-public health professionals.
558
Client: Confidential, San Francisco, California
Quantified the potential multi-pathway dose received by humans from a pesticide applied indoors. Part of team that developed exposure model and evaluated exposure concentrations in a comprehensive report on the plausible range of doses received by a specific person. This evaluation was used in the support of litigation.
Client: Covanta Energy, Westwood, California
Evaluated health risk from metals in biosolids applied as soil amendment on agricultural lands. The biosolids were created at a forest waste cogeneration facility using 96% whole tree wood chips and 4 percent green waste. Mass loading calculations were used to estimate Cr(VI) concentrations in agricultural soils based on a maximum loading rate of 40 tons of biomass per acre of agricultural soil. The results of the study were used by the Regulatory agency to determine that the application of biosolids did not constitute a health risk to workers applying the biosolids or to residences near the agricultural lands.
Client – United Kingdom Environmental Agency
Oversaw a comprehensive toxicological evaluation of methyl-tertiary butyl ether (MtBE) for the United Kingdom’s Environment Agency. The evaluation included available data on the production, use, chemical characteristics, fate and transport, toxicology, and remediation of MtBE. The results of the evaluation have been used as a briefing tool for public health professionals.
Client – Confidential, Los Angeles, California
Prepared comprehensive evaluation of tertiary butyl alcohol (TBA) in municipal drinking water system. TBA is the primary breakdown product of MtBE, and is suspected to be the primary cause of MtBE toxicity. This evaluation will include available information on the production, use, chemical characteristics, fate and transport in the environment, absorption, distribution, routes of detoxification, metabolites, carcinogenic potential, and remediation of TBA. The results of the evaluation were used as a briefing tool for nonpublic health professionals.
Client – Confidential, Los Angeles, California
Prepared comprehensive evaluation of methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) in municipal drinking water system. MTBE is a chemical added to gasoline to increase the octane 559
rating and to meet Federally mandated emission criteria. The evaluation included available data on the production, use, chemical characteristics, fate and transport, toxicology, and remediation of MTBE. The results of the evaluation have been were used as a briefing tool for non-public health professionals.
Client – Ministry of Environment, Lands & Parks, British Columbia Dr. Clark assisted in the development of water quality guidelines for methyl tertiary-butyl ether (MTBE) to protect water uses in British Columbia (BC). The water uses to be considered includes freshwater and marine life, wildlife, industrial, and agricultural (e.g., irrigation and livestock watering) water uses. Guidelines from other jurisdictions for the protection of drinking water, recreation and aesthetics were to be identified.
Client: Confidential, Los Angeles, California
Prepared physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) assessment of lead risk of receptors at middle school built over former industrial facility. This evaluation is being used to determine cleanup goals and will be basis for regulatory closure of site.
Client: Kaiser Venture Incorporated, Fontana, California Prepared PBPK assessment of lead risk of receptors at a 1,100-acre former steel mill.
This evaluation was used as the basis for granting closure of the site by lead regulatory agency.
RISK ASSESSMENTS/REMEDIAL INVESTIGATIONS
Client: Confidential, Atlanta, Georgia
Researched potential exposure and health risks to community members potentially exposed to creosote, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, pentachlorophenol, and dioxin compounds used at a former wood treatment facility. Prepared a comprehensive toxicological summary of the chemicals of concern, including the chemical characteristics, absorption, distribution, and carcinogenic potential. Prepared risk characterization of the carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic chemicals based on the exposure assessment to quantify the potential risk to members of the surrounding community. This evaluation was used to help settle class-action tort. 560
Client: Confidential, Escondido, California
Prepared comprehensive Preliminary Endangerment Assessment (PEA) of dense nonaqueous liquid phase hydrocarbon (chlorinated solvents) contamination at a former printed circuit board manufacturing facility. This evaluation was used for litigation support and may be used as the basis for reaching closure of the site with the lead regulatory agency.
Client: Confidential, San Francisco, California
Summarized epidemiological evidence for connective tissue and autoimmune diseases for product liability litigation. Identified epidemiological research efforts on the health effects of medical prostheses. This research was used in a meta-analysis of the health effects and as a briefing tool for non-public health professionals.
Client: Confidential, Bogotá, Columbia
Prepared comprehensive evaluation of the potential health risks associated with the redevelopment of a 13.7 hectares plastic manufacturing facility in Bogotá, Colombia The risk assessment was used as the basis for the remedial goals and closure of the site.
Client: Confidential, Los Angeles, California
Prepared comprehensive human health risk assessment of students, staff, and residents potentially exposed to heavy metals (principally cadmium) and VOCs from soil and soil vapor at 12-acre former crude oilfield and municipal landfill. The site is currently used as a middle school housing approximately 3,000 children. The evaluation determined that the site was safe for the current and future uses and was used as the basis for regulatory closure of site.
Client: Confidential, Los Angeles, California
Managed remedial investigation (RI) of heavy metals and volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) for a 15-acre former manufacturing facility. The RI investigation of the site included over 800 different sampling locations and the collection of soil, soil gas, and groundwater samples. The site is currently used as a year round school housing approximately 3,000 children. The Remedial Investigation was performed in a manner 561
that did not interrupt school activities and met the time restrictions placed on the project by the overseeing regulatory agency. The RI Report identified the off-site source of metals that impacted groundwater beneath the site and the sources of VOCs in soil gas and groundwater. The RI included a numerical model of vapor intrusion into the buildings at the site from the vadose zone to determine exposure concentrations and an air dispersion model of VOCs from the proposed soil vapor treatment system. The Feasibility Study for the Site is currently being drafted and may be used as the basis for granting closure of the site by DTSC.
Client: Confidential, Los Angeles, California
Prepared comprehensive human health risk assessment of students, staff, and residents potentially exposed to heavy metals (principally lead), VOCs, SVOCs, and PCBs from soil, soil vapor, and groundwater at 15-acre former manufacturing facility. The site is currently used as a year round school housing approximately 3,000 children. The evaluation determined that the site was safe for the current and future uses and will be basis for regulatory closure of site.
Client: Confidential, Los Angeles, California
Prepared comprehensive evaluation of VOC vapor intrusion into classrooms of middle school that was former 15-acre industrial facility. Using the Johnson-Ettinger Vapor Intrusion model, the evaluation determined acceptable soil gas concentrations at the site that did not pose health threat to students, staff, and residents. This evaluation is being used to determine cleanup goals and will be basis for regulatory closure of site.
Client –Dominguez Energy, Carson, California
Prepared comprehensive evaluation of the potential health risks associated with the redevelopment of 6-acre portion of a 500-acre oil and natural gas production facility in Carson, California. The risk assessment was used as the basis for closure of the site.
Kaiser Ventures Incorporated, Fontana, California
Prepared health risk assessment of semi-volatile organic chemicals and metals for a fiftyyear old wastewater treatment facility used at a 1,100-acre former steel mill. This evaluation was used as the basis for granting closure of the site by lead regulatory agency.
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ANR Freight - Los Angeles, California
Prepared a comprehensive Preliminary Endangerment Assessment (PEA) of petroleum hydrocarbon and metal contamination of a former freight depot. This evaluation was as the basis for reaching closure of the site with lead regulatory agency.
Kaiser Ventures Incorporated, Fontana, California
Prepared comprehensive health risk assessment of semi-volatile organic chemicals and metals for 23-acre parcel of a 1,100-acre former steel mill. The health risk assessment was used to determine clean up goals and as the basis for granting closure of the site by lead regulatory agency. Air dispersion modeling using ISCST3 was performed to determine downwind exposure point concentrations at sensitive receptors within a 1 kilometer radius of the site. The results of the health risk assessment were presented at a public meeting sponsored by the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) in the community potentially affected by the site.
Unocal Corporation - Los Angeles, California
Prepared comprehensive assessment of petroleum hydrocarbons and metals for a former petroleum service station located next to sensitive population center (elementary school).
The assessment used a probabilistic approach to estimate risks to the community and was used as the basis for granting closure of the site by lead regulatory agency.
Client: Confidential, Los Angeles, California
Managed oversight of remedial investigation most contaminated heavy metal site in California. Lead concentrations in soil excess of 68,000,000 parts per billion (ppb) have been measured at the site. This State Superfund Site was a former hard chrome plating operation that operated for approximately 40-years.
Client: Confidential, San Francisco, California
Coordinator of regional monitoring program to determine background concentrations of metals in air. Acted as liaison with SCAQMD and CARB to perform co-location sampling and comparison of accepted regulatory method with ASTM methodology. 563
Client: Confidential, San Francisco, California
Analyzed historical air monitoring data for South Coast Air Basin in Southern California and potential health risks related to ambient concentrations of carcinogenic metals and volatile organic compounds. Identified and reviewed the available literature and calculated risks from toxins in South Coast Air Basin.
IT Corporation, North Carolina
Prepared comprehensive evaluation of potential exposure of workers to air-borne VOCs at hazardous waste storage facility under SUPERFUND cleanup decree. Assessment used in developing health based clean-up levels.
Professional Associations
American Public Health Association (APHA)
Association for Environmental Health and Sciences (AEHS) American Chemical Society (ACS)
California Redevelopment Association (CRA)
International Society of Environmental Forensics (ISEF) Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) Publications and Presentations:
Books and Book Chapters
Sullivan, P., J.J. J. Clark, F.J. Agardy, and P.E. Rosenfeld. (2007). Synthetic Toxins In The Food, Water and Air of American Cities. Elsevier, Inc. Burlington, MA.
Sullivan, P. and J.J. J. Clark. 2006. Choosing Safer Foods, A Guide To Minimizing Synthetic Chemicals In Your Diet. Elsevier, Inc. Burlington, MA.
Sullivan, P., Agardy, F.J., and J.J.J. Clark. 2005. The Environmental Science of Drinking Water. Elsevier, Inc. Burlington, MA.
Sullivan, P.J., Agardy, F.J., Clark, J.J.J. 2002. America’s Threatened Drinking Water:
Hazards and Solutions. Trafford Publishing, Victoria B.C.
Clark, J.J.J. 2001. “TBA: Chemical Properties, Production & Use, Fate and Transport, Toxicology, Detection in Groundwater, and Regulatory Standards” in Oxygenates in the Environment. Art Diaz, Ed.. Oxford University Press: New York.
Clark, J.J.J. 2000. “Toxicology of Perchlorate” in Perchlorate in the Environment.
Edward Urbansky, Ed. Kluwer/Plenum: New York.
Clark, J.J.J. 1995. Probabilistic Forecasting of Volatile Organic Compound Concentrations At The Soil Surface From Contaminated Groundwater. UMI. 564
Baker, J.; Clark, J.J.J.; Stanford, J.T. 1994. Ex Situ Remediation of Diesel Contaminated Railroad Sand by Soil Washing. Principles and Practices for Diesel Contaminated Soils, Volume III. P.T. Kostecki, E.J. Calabrese, and C.P.L. Barkan, eds. Amherst Scientific Publishers, Amherst, MA. pp 89-96.
Journal and Proceeding Articles
Tam L. K.., Wu C. D., Clark J. J. and Rosenfeld, P.E. (2008) A Statistical Analysis Of Attic Dust And Blood Lipid Concentrations Of Tetrachloro-p-Dibenzodioxin (TCDD) Toxicity Equialency Quotients (TEQ) In Two Populations Near Wood Treatment Facilities. Organohalogen Compounds, Volume 70 (2008) page 002254.
Tam L. K.., Wu C. D., Clark J. J. and Rosenfeld, P.E. (2008) Methods For Collect Samples For Assessing Dioxins And Other Environmental Contaminants In Attic Dust: A Review. Organohalogen Compounds, Volume 70 (2008) page 000527 Hensley A.R., Scott, A., Rosenfeld P.E., Clark, J.J.J. (2007). “Attic Dust And Human Blood Samples Collected Near A Former Wood Treatment Facility.” Environmental Research. 105:194-199.
Rosenfeld, P.E., Clark, J. J., Hensley, A.R., and Suffet, I.H. 2007. “The Use Of An Odor Wheel Classification For The Evaluation of Human Health Risk Criteria For Compost Facilities” Water Science & Technology. 55(5): 345-357.
Hensley A.R., Scott, A., Rosenfeld P.E., Clark, J.J.J. 2006. “Dioxin Containing Attic Dust And Human Blood Samples Collected Near A Former Wood Treatment Facility.” The 26th International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Pollutants – DIOXIN2006, August 21 – 25, 2006. Radisson SAS Scandinavia Hotel in Oslo Norway.
Rosenfeld, P.E., Clark, J. J. and Suffet, I.H. 2005. “The Value Of An Odor Quality Classification Scheme For Compost Facility Evaluations” The U.S. Composting Council’s 13th Annual Conference January 23 - 26, 2005, Crowne Plaza Riverwalk, San Antonio, TX.
Rosenfeld, P.E., Clark, J. J. and Suffet, I.H. 2004. “The Value Of An Odor Quality Classification Scheme For Urban Odor” WEFTEC 2004. 77th Annual Technical Exhibition & Conference October 2 - 6, 2004, Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, New Orleans, Louisiana.
Clark, J.J.J. 2003. “Manufacturing, Use, Regulation, and Occurrence of a Known Endocrine Disrupting Chemical (EDC), 2,4-Dichlorophnoxyacetic Acid (2,4-D) in California Drinking Water Supplies.” National Groundwater Association Southwest Focus Conference: Water Supply and Emerging Contaminants. Minneapolis, MN.
March 20, 2003.
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Rosenfeld, P. and J.J.J. Clark. 2003. “Understanding Historical Use, Chemical Properties, Toxicity, and Regulatory Guidance” National Groundwater Association Southwest Focus Conference: Water Supply and Emerging Contaminants. Phoenix, AZ. February 21, 2003.
Clark, J.J.J., Brown A. 1999. Perchlorate Contamination: Fate in the Environment and Treatment Options. In Situ and On-Site Bioremediation, Fifth International Symposium. San Diego, CA, April, 1999.
Clark, J.J.J. 1998. Health Effects of Perchlorate and the New Reference Dose (RfD).
Proceedings From the Groundwater Resource Association Seventh Annual Meeting, Walnut Creek, CA, October 23, 1998.
Browne, T., Clark, J.J.J. 1998. Treatment Options For Perchlorate In Drinking Water.
Proceedings From the Groundwater Resource Association Seventh Annual Meeting, Walnut Creek, CA, October 23, 1998.
Clark, J.J.J., Brown, A., Rodriguez, R. 1998. The Public Health Implications of MtBE and Perchlorate in Water: Risk Management Decisions for Water Purveyors.
Proceedings of the National Ground Water Association, Anaheim, CA, June 3-4, 1998.
Clark J.J.J., Brown, A., Ulrey, A. 1997. Impacts of Perchlorate On Drinking Water In The Western United States. U.S. EPA Symposium on Biological and Chemical Reduction of Chlorate and Perchlorate, Cincinnati, OH, December 5, 1997.
Clark, J.J.J.; Corbett, G.E.; Kerger, B.D.; Finley, B.L.; Paustenbach, D.J. 1996.
Dermal Uptake of Hexavalent Chromium In Human Volunteers: Measures of Systemic Uptake From Immersion in Water At 22 PPM. Toxicologist. 30(1):14.
Dodge, D.G.; Clark, J.J.J.; Kerger, B.D.; Richter, R.O.; Finley, B.L.; Paustenbach, D.J. 1996. Assessment of Airborne Hexavalent Chromium In The Home Following Use of Contaminated Tapwater. Toxicologist. 30(1):117-118.
Paulo, M.T.; Gong, H., Jr.; Clark, J.J.J. (1992). Effects of Pretreatment with Ipratroprium Bromide in COPD Patients Exposed to Ozone. American Review of Respiratory Disease. 145(4):A96.
Harber, P.H.; Gong, H., Jr.; Lachenbruch, A.; Clark, J.; Hsu, P. (1992). Respiratory Pattern Effect of Acute Sulfur Dioxide Exposure in Asthmatics. American Review of Respiratory Disease. 145(4):A88.
McManus, M.S.; Gong, H., Jr.; Clements, P.; Clark, J.J.J. (1991). Respiratory Response of Patients With Interstitial Lung Disease To Inhaled Ozone. American Review of Respiratory Disease. 143(4):A91.
Gong, H., Jr.; Simmons, M.S.; McManus, M.S.; Tashkin, D.P.; Clark, V.A.; Detels, R.; Clark, J.J. (1990). Relationship Between Responses to Chronic Oxidant and Acute 566
Ozone Exposures in Residents of Los Angeles County. American Review of Respiratory Disease. 141(4):A70.
Tierney, D.F. and J.J.J. Clark. (1990). Lung Polyamine Content Can Be Increased By Spermidine Infusions Into Hyperoxic Rats. American Review of Respiratory Disease. 139(4):A41.
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EXHIBIT C
568
WI #25-002.12
August 6, 2025
Victoria Yundt
Lozeau | Drury LLP
1939 Harrison Street, Suite 150
Oakland, CA 94612
SUBJECT: Chino Gateway Terminal Project
City of Chino, CA
Review and Comment on Noise Study
Dear Ms. Yundt,
Per your request, Wilson Ihrig has reviewed the information and noise impact analysis in the following documents:
Envision Chino, City of Chino General Plan 2025, July 2010 (General Plan) Chino Gateway Terminal Project
Addendum to the City of Chino General Plan EIR, June 2025 (Addendum) Appendix A Vehicles and Light Dury Truck Custom Report (App. A) Appendix I.1 Noise Survey Sheets (App. I.1)
Appendix 1.2 SoundPLAN Day and Night Noise Levels (App. I.2) Appendix J Traffic Impact Analysis (App. J)
The Proposed Chino Gateway Terminal Project (Project) would result in the demolition of existing structures and construction of a 158,548 square-foot warehouse building and a 3,520 square-foot multi-tenant restaurant building. The project site is surrounded by industrial uses to the east, west and south and single family house across Schaefer Avenue to the north.
Wilson Ihrig, Acoustical Consultants, has practiced exclusively in the field of acoustics since 1966.
During our 57 years of operation, we have prepared hundreds of noise studies for Environmental Impact Reports and Statements. We have one of the largest technical laboratories in the acoustical consulting industry. We also utilize industry-standard acoustical programs such as Roadway Construction Noise Model (RCNM), SoundPLAN, and CADNA. In short, we are well qualified to prepare environmental noise studies and review studies prepared by others.
Comment
LeƩ er
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RTC Responses
Adverse Effects of Noise1
Although the health effects of noise are not taken as seriously in the United States as they are in other countries, they are real and, in many parts of the country, pervasive.
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss. If a person is repeatedly exposed to loud noises, he or she may experience noise-induced hearing impairment or loss. In the United States, both the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) promote standards and regulations to protect the hearing of people exposed to high levels of industrial noise.
Speech Interference. Another common problem associated with noise is speech interference. In addition to the obvious issues that may arise from misunderstandings, speech interference also leads to problems with concentration fatigue, irritation, decreased working capacity, and automatic stress reactions. For complete speech intelligibility, the sound level of the speech should be 15 to 18 dBA higher than the background noise. Typical indoor speech levels are 45 to 50 dBA at 1 meter, so any noise above 30 dBA begins to interfere with speech intelligibility. The common reaction to higher background noise levels is to raise one’s voice. If this is required persistently for long periods of time, stress reactions and irritation will likely result.
Sleep Disturbance. Noise can disturb sleep by making it more difficult to fall asleep, by waking someone after they are asleep, or by altering their sleep stage, e.g., reducing the amount of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Noise exposure for people who are sleeping has also been linked to increased blood pressure, increased heart rate, increase in body movements, and other physiological effects. Not surprisingly, people whose sleep is disturbed by noise often experience secondary effects such as cognitive decline, increased fatigue, depressed mood, and decreased work performance.
Cardiovascular and Physiological Effects. Human’s bodily reactions to noise are rooted in the “fight or flight” response that evolved when many noises signaled imminent danger. These include increased blood pressure, elevated heart rate, and vasoconstriction. Prolonged exposure to acute noises can result in permanent effects such as hypertension and heart disease.
Impaired Cognitive Performance. Studies have established that noise exposure impairs people’s abilities to perform complex tasks (tasks that require attention to detail or analytical processes) and it makes reading, paying attention, solving problems, and memorizing more difficult. This is why there are standards for classroom background noise levels and why offices and libraries are designed to provide quiet work environments.
1 More information on these and other adverse effects of noise may be found in Guidelines for Community Noise, eds B Berglund, T Lindvall, and D Schwela, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland, 1999. (https://iris.who.int/handle/10665/66217)
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RTC Responses
Potentially Significant Construction Noise Impacts
The Addendum underestimates construction noise and does not disclose potentially significant impacts. The anticipated construction noise levels reported in the Addendum are up to 70 dBA [p. 2- 83]. The City of Chino General Plan limits noise from construction activities below 65 dBA, in accordance with Municipal Code Section 9.40.040(B) [General Plan, p. N-10]. The Addendum does not mention this limit or discuss how this impact will be addressed.
Further, the construction noise analysis is unsupported. The Addendum discusses noise levels predicted from the middle of the site (400 feet), even though the Addendum acknowledges that the nearest single-family residences are located 90 feet north of the edge of the site [p. 2-83]. The source of the range of construction levels shown in the Addendum is not cited and the report does not provide an equipment list for construction phases or equipment reference levels.
The air emissions report provided in Appendix A does contain construction equipment lists. The Federal Highway Administration’s Roadway Noise Construction Model (RCNM) provides reference Lmax levels for construction equipment and usage factors, which account for power variation and the fraction of time each piece is typically used on site. The Addendum could have used this information to calculate noise levels based on the actual anticipated construction activities on site.
As shown in Table 1 below, noise levels from construction activities at residences closest to the Project site are expected to be up to 81 dBA, 11 dB higher than the reported construction levels.
Table 1 Estimated Construction Noise Levels at Nearest Residences Activity Equipment Usage
(%)
Ref. Lmax at
50 ft. (dBA)
Dist. to
Nearest
Residence (ft.)
Lmax at
Residence
(dBA)
Leq at
Residence
(dBA)
Demo
concrete saw 20 90 90 85 78
excavator 40 85 90 80 76
dozer 40 85 90 80 76
Total: 81
Site Prep
dozer 40 85 90 80 76
loader/backhoe 40 80 90 75 71
Total: 77
Grading
excavator 40 85 90 80 76
grader 40 85 90 80 76
dozer 40 85 90 80 76
loader/backhoe 40 80 90 75 71
Total: 81
California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines cited in the Addendum state that impacts to noise would be significant if the proposed project would result in “generation of a substantial temporary or permanent increase in ambient noise levels” [p. 2-33]. The Addendum lacks a significance threshold for “substantial increase” for Project construction noise. Daytime ambient levels measured at nearby homes (LT-2) are reported to be 68 to 73 dBA in the Addendum [p. 2-85]. The estimated 1-C-6
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construction noise levels from demolition and grading of 81 dBA are not only above the General Plan limit, but 8 to 13 dB above the measured ambient.
As shown in Figure 3-6 of the Federal Transit Authority Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment Manual Noise (FTA Manual)2, which is based on actual case studies, community reaction to newly introduced noise gets stronger as noise above existing levels increases. Reactions to increases between 5 to 10 dB varied from “widespread complaints” to “threats of legal action.” Figure 1 FTA Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment, Section on Construction Noise and Vibration (FTA page 18)
The Addendum indicates that the Project will prepare a construction management plan to ensure construction does not take place outside of allowable hours, but again omits any mention of the General Plan limit for construction noise [p. 2-85]. The report states that temporary noise barriers would be used. However, it does not indicate where the barriers would be placed (which impacts their effectiveness) or how much reduction they are expected to provide. The noise barriers are not explicitly called out as a mitigation measure.
The errors and omissions in the underlying data render the construction noise analysis unreliable.
Noise impacts must be re-evaluated utilizing anticipated construction activities and properly established criteria. Mitigation measures such as enclosures, relocating staging areas and stationary equipment, temporary noise barriers, and noise monitoring should be considered to reduce potentially significant construction noise impacts.
2 https://www.transit.dot.gov/sites/fta.dot.gov/files/docs/research-innovation/118131/transit-noise-andvibration-impact-assessment-manual-fta-report-no-0123_0.pdf 1-C-6
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RTC Responses
Potentially Significant Truck Noise Impacts
The Addendum does not address potentially significant impacts from trucks coming in and out of the Schaefer Avenue driveway. The Project Description indicates that trucks will use the western driveway along Schaefer Avenue and the southern driveway along Oaks Avenue [p. 12]. As shown in Figure 4 of the Addendum, the Schaefer Avenue driveway is planned to be directly across from sensitive residences, located 90 feet from the Project site. As further discussed in the Project Description, the industrial facility is anticipated to have 24 hour per day and 7 days a week hours of operation [p. 12]. The traffic analysis in Appendix J shows that the warehouse building will generate 28 total truck trips during the P.M. peak hour [App. J, Table A]. There is no information on anticipated nighttime truck traffic activity.
The Addendum discusses truck noise at the loading docks, which are shielded from homes, but does not give a quantitative analysis of truck noise in the driveway, which is not shielded from homes. The operational noise SoundPLAN model shown in Appendix J.2 does not include either driveway as a noise source. The Addendum cites a level of 76 dBA at 20 feet for “short term noise levels that occur during the docking process” based on previous measurements for another warehouse project and acknowledges that trucks would arrive on site and maneuver their trailers to the loading docks [p. 2- 88].
Using the reference level provided by the Addendum, truck noise at the Schaefer Avenue driveway is estimated to be 63 dBA at the nearest residences (90 feet from the site), which exceeds both the daytime (50 dBA) and nighttime (45 dBA) noise standards cited in the Addendum. The estimated truck noise is 4 dB above the nighttime ambient measured by the Project. The Addendum lacks a significance threshold for “substantial increase” for operational noise. However, it acknowledges that a 3 dB difference would be perceptible to residents [p. 2-85].
The Leq represents noise from multiple truck events over a period of time (in this case, one hour).
Single event truck noise at night can cause sleep disturbance. Reliance on the hourly Leq as the significance threshold is inadequate to assess the significance of truck noise on sleep disturbance. A 2018 review article by Basner and McGuire, titled WHO Environmental Noise Guidelines for the European Region: A Systematic Review on Environmental Noise and Effects on Sleep and published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (shown in Figure 2) uses data from two fairly large studies of sleep disturbance due to road traffic to estimate the effect of single traffic noise events on sleep.3
Lmax levels used in Figure 2 describe the highest “instantaneous” noise level during a specified time period, caused by short duration noises such as a truck passby, pneumatic brake air release, backup alarm, etc. As explained by FHWA-HEP-17-053, the maximum sound level is important in judging the interference caused by a noise event with common activities.4 FHWA RCNM uses a reference Lmax of 84 dBA for truck noise at 50 feet. As show below, this would result in an interior Lmax level of 46 dBA at the nearest residence. This assumes 15-dB reduction from a partially open window, which is standard practice for acoustical analyses in California. As shown in Figure 2, this level has an approximately 10% chance of disturbing sleep.
3 International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2018, 15, 519; doi:10.3390/ijerph15030519 4 https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/Environment/noise/resources/sound_descr.cfm 1-C-8
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Figure 2 From Basner (2018), Figure 4 Probability of Sleep Disturbance Mitigation measures could include operational conditions such as prohibiting line-haul trucks during nighttime hours, or routing nighttime line-haul trucks away from residential areas, or off-site mitigation in the form of new windows and mechanical ventilation for bedrooms affected by the nighttime line-haul operations. General Plan Objective N-1.2, Policy P1 requires the minimization of transportation noise through street and right-of-way design or route coordination [General Plan, p.
N-31]. The Project should consider rerouting truck traffic away from the planned Schaeffer Avenue driveway and nearby residences.
Mechanical Noise Analysis Contains Errors and Omissions The Addendum acknowledges that the results of the SoundPLAN model presented in Appendix I.2 exceed nighttime limits but does not discuss mitigation measures [p. 2-88]. Further, it appears that the SoundPLAN contours in Appendix I.2 do not include the contribution from all of the noise sources in the model and underestimates mechanical noise. The Addendum states the analysis used a reference sound power level of 87 dBA for HVAC units [p. 2-88]. The SoundPLAN model shows four HVAC units for the warehouse facility, about 180 feet from sensitive receptors, but does not show a contour from these sources. Four HVAC units at the referenced sound power level would result in a sound pressure level of 50 dBA at 180 feet, which is over the daytime and nighttime residential limits.
Further, four HVAC units are not sufficient for the ventilation needs of the planned building. For warehouses, The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) minimum ventilation rate is 0.06 CFM per square foot, per person, which must be adjusted 1-C-9
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for occupancy rates, indoor air quality, and other factors.5 The most common large unit size is 25 tons. A simple calculation using a rule of thumb for industrial buildings (see Figure 1 below) shows that a warehouse of this size would need at least 25 units (spread out across the roof) to properly ventilate the space. Ten of these units along the edge of the building would result in noise levels of 54 dBA at 180 feet.
158,148 sq. ft ÷ 250 sq. ft. per ton = 634 ton load
634 ton load ÷ 25 tons per unit = 25 units
The SoundPlan model for operational noise should have at the very least included the units along the roof parameter closest to sensitive receptors. The HVAC noise predictions should be updated to reflect realistic equipment assumptions.
Figure 3 Industrial Building Cooling Load, Rule of Thumb6 Traffic Analysis Missing Validation
The modeled levels for existing traffic along Shaeffer Avenue are lower than measured levels reported in the Addendum. Table K shows a CNEL of 67.4 dBA between Benson Avenue and Oaks Avenue [p. 2-86]. Table J shows a measured Ldn of 75.3 dBA at LT-2, 8 dB higher [p. 2-85]. The DEIR does not discuss this discrepancy or apply a calibration factor to the traffic noise model. Further, there is no explanation for why two different metrics were used to show measured and modeled existing levels. The CNEL level includes an additional 5 dB penalty for evening hours.
The Caltrans Technical Noise Supplement to the Traffic Noise Analysis Protocol (TeNS) provides procedures for traffic studies, including a discussion of model accuracy tolerances.7 The TeNS recommends that “differences of 5 dBA or more should be approached with caution” when validating traffic noise models [TeNS p. 4-13]. The Project should address this discrepancy and validate the traffic model using measured baseline data.
5https://www.ashrae.org/file%20library/technical%20resources/standards%20and%20guidelines/standards%20ad denda/62_1_2013_p_20150707.pdf
6 https://www.engproguides.com/hvac-rule-of-thumb-calculator.html 7 https://dot.ca.gov/-/media/dot-media/programs/environmental-analysis/documents/env/tens-sep2013- a11y.pdf
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RTC Responses
Baseline Noise is Not Properly Established
The Addendum does not properly characterize the existing noise environment. The second measurement location is at the back of the site, which does not represent any sensitive receivers. A second measurement would have been better suited at residences further down Schaeffer Avenue to show noise levels from the existing warehouse driveways on Shaeffer and compare those levels to the tomes across the Project site.
Conclusion
The Addendum operational and construction noise analysis contains errors and fails to identify potentially significant impacts. The Addendum fails to establish a proper baseline for traffic noise.
Please feel free to contact me with any questions on this information.
Very truly yours,
Ani Toncheva, Senior Consultant, WILSON IHRIG
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ANI TONCHEVA
Senior Consultant
Since joining the firm in 2011, Ani has conducted analyses for transit systems, vibration-sensitive research facilities, public infrastructure, construction, and other environmental noise. She has contributed to literature reviews, including research on current practices of historical preservation. She has extensive experience working on construction projects in New York City and is well-versed in local noise codes.
Education
• B.A., Physics; Bard College, New York
Professional Associations
• Member, National Council of Acoustical Consultants (NCAC) • Member, Acoustical Society of America (ASA)
• Board Member, Transportation Research Forum (TRF), NY Chapter and International Board Research Paper
• NCHRP 25-25, Current Practices to Address Construction Vibration and Potential Effects to Historic Buildings Adjacent to Transportation Projects
Project Experience
ARCHITECTURAL
180 Jones Street Mixed-Use Development, San Francisco, CA Prepared a CCR Title 24 Noise Study Report for a new mixed-use building. The project included 70 residential units and on-site community facilities.
1801 Haight Street Mixed-Use Development, San Francisco, CA Prepared a CCR Title 24 Noise Study Report for a new low-rise mixed-use building.
Analog (ArtX) Hotel, Palo Alto, CA
Prepared preliminary basis of design guidelines for a new five-story boutique hotel in a residential area. Work included evaluation of exterior noise from a project that may affect guest areas and interior noise and vibration isolation measures.
First Congregational Church of Berkeley Pilgrim Hall Replacement, Berkeley, CA Responsible for developing 3D computer model of a new hall to prepare a basis of design guidelines for room acoustics and noise control and assist in the development of acoustic specifications for various disciplines.
Gansevoort Cooperative, New York, NY
Conducted measurements inside several units in a mixed-use building to characterize commercial noise levels and recommend mitigation measures.
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Hollis Life Science, Emeryville, CA
Conducted a drawing review regarding the new air handler units, exhaust fans, and related noise, and vibration-generating equipment, to recommend base isolation requirements to control vibration within the building, and to assess noise control requirements.
Sunnydale Block 3A & 3B Mixed-Use Residential Development, San Francisco, CA Prepared a CCR Title 24 Noise Study Report for two, mixed-use, 5-story buildings. The project was part of the complete rebuild of the existing Sunnydale-Velasco Housing Authority site through the HOPE SF Program.
CONSTRUCTION
Columbia University Medical Center Medical and Graduate Education Building, New York, NY Conducted baseline noise survey and performed attended noise measurements during preliminary construction work. Installed long-term noise monitors and assisted with the implementation of a sophisticated remote noise monitoring system for a six-month construction phase including building demolition.
East Side Coastal Resiliency Noise Monitoring Plan, New York, NY Prepared noise monitoring plan for residences located near planned construction activities involving the use of pile driving methods for the installation of a flood protection system.
Fulton Municipal Manufactured Gas Plant Environment Remediation, New York, NY Conducted a baseline noise and vibration study in the vicinity of planned Gowanus Canal remediation for the former MGP site, including long-term unattended and short-term noise and vibration measurements.
Former Citizens Gas Works MGP Site Pilot Test Program, New York, NY Collected long-term baseline noise and vibration data. Conducted short-term attended noise and vibration measurements at during pile operations. Vibration measurements were conducted at nearby residence and at the MTA NYCT structure near the project site.
Gowanus Canal Remediation, New York, NY
Conducted baseline noise measurements and ongoing long-term noise and vibration monitoring in vicinity of Gowanus Canal Superfund Site 4th street turning basin dredging and capping pilot study.
Hudson Yards Tower C Foundations and Utilities, New York, NY Conducted a baseline noise survey prior to construction work including a combination of long-term unattended and short-term attended noise measurements.
PANYNJ Lincoln Tunnel Helix Rehabilitation, NJ
Assisted in developing construction noise control and mitigation plan and implementing a remote long-term noise monitoring program at three locations. Performed noise measurements of nighttime construction activities in vicinity of sensitive receptors.
MSK 74th Street, New York, NY
Conducted baseline noise survey, assisted in developing construction noise control and mitigation plan, and implemented a long-term noise monitoring program at two locations. Provided weekly reports of monitoring data with on-going assessments of Contractor compliance with project noise limits and coordinated interior short-term measurements in nearby residential buildings. 578
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NYMTA No. 7 Line Subway Extension, New York, NY
Performed long-term noise monitoring for the ventilation shaft construction site.
NYMTA No. 7 Line Subway Extension Site L Ventilation Facility Construction, New York, NY The project involved the mining and lining of two shafts and the construction of a 2-story ventilation building at Site L near Dyer Avenue on West 41st Street. Assisted with long-term noise compliance monitoring and preparation of monthly noise monitoring reports.
NYMTA ESA/LIRR Grand Central Terminal Fit-Out, New York, NY Prepared the Contractor’s noise and vibration control plan updates for fit-out work conducted underground at the Grand Central Terminal Suburban Level. Performed field measurements of construction equipment noise and prepared noise emission certificates.
San Francisco Planning Department, Alameda Street Wet Weather Tunnel and Folsom Area Sewer Improvement, San Francisco, CA
Project Manager in charge of noise and vibration analysis for Folsom Area stormwater infrastructure improvements, as part of the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission’s (SFPUC) flood resilience efforts under the Sewer System Improvement Program. Work included baseline noise survey, noise and vibration predictions, evaluation of applicable criteria and recommendations for noise and vibration control measures.
SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, San Mateo, CA
Generated a site-specific vibration propagation model and analyzed the potential for vibration impacts to ongoing scientific experiments during the construction of a new building on the SLAC campus. Testing included measuring transfer mobilities, determining the vibration response of particle beamline equipment, and vibration generated by construction equipment.
World Trade Center Vehicle Security Center, New York, NY Conducted baseline noise surveys, assisted in developing construction noise control plans, and implementing a remote long-term noise monitoring program at six locations around the perimeter of the site at noise sensitive receptors. Provided weekly reports of monitoring data with on-going assessments of Contractor compliance with project noise limits.
ENVIRONMENTAL
CEQA Peer Reviews, CA
Peer review of noise and vibration analyses prepared per CEQA. These projects have primarily focused on the construction and operation of new facilities including residential in-fill, office and mixed-use projects, and educational buildings.
Millennium Bulk Terminal, Longview, WA
Prepared noise analysis for the project’s NEPA and SEPA environmental impact statements. Tasks included future rail traffic modeling using CadnaA and preparation of noise contours using GIS.
Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA Haskin Hill Sanctuary, Loma Mar, CA Prepared an environmental study for a planned animal sanctuary in Loma Mar. Work included baseline noise measurements, predictions of expected noise from the completed project and a review of compliance with local regulations and CEQA.
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HIGHWAY AND OTHER TRAFFIC STUDIES
Alameda CTC, I-880 Interchange Improvements Project (Whipple Road-Industrial Southwest and Industrial Parkway West), Hayward, CA
Project Manager for a traffic noise study. The work included noise modelling and impact assessments consistent with FHWA and Caltrans procedures and methodology for multiple project alternatives.
Alameda CTC, I-80/Ashby Avenue Interchange Improvements, Berkeley, CA Project Manager for a traffic noise study. The work included noise modelling and impact assessments consistent with FHWA and Caltrans procedures and methodology for multiple project alternatives.
Riverstone Apartments, Seattle, WA
This street will serve the future Star Lake Station currently under construction for Sound Transit’s Federal Way Link Extension. As part of the Federal Way project, improvements to the street include the addition of a turning lane and traffic light (currently in place) at the end of a roadway. The study provided an independent assessment of the potential for traffic noise impacts on the residents of Riverstone based on FTA project noise criterion.
Junipero Serra Roadway Noise, South San Francisco, CA
Noise analysis of existing traffic noise and potential benefits of noise abatement measures such as sound walls and quieter pavement.
LEGAL
50 Pine Street Condominiums, New York, NY
The project involved evaluating noise at residential dwelling units for NYC noise code compliance.
Measured noise levels from mechanical equipment in an enclosed courtyard.
Uptown Newport, Newport Beach, CA
Evaluation of noise levels due to mechanical equipment at adjacent property. Assisted heavily with data analysis from long-term monitoring and data presentation for the legal team.
RAIL TRANSIT
BART Berryessa Station Transit Noise Impact and Mitigation, San Jose, CA Assisted with noise predictions and barrier design recommendations. Project is a 10.2-mile extension of a heavy rail transit system in the San Francisco Bay Area, and this is one of the stations along the new route.
BART to Silicon Valley Phase II
Acoustics, noise, and vibration discipline lead for a large single-bore tunnel project through downtown San Jose. The largest single public infrastructure project ever constructed in Santa Clara County, this phase of VTA’s BART to Silicon Valley project will extend BART service six miles from the Berryessa Transit Center into San Jose and ending in the City of Santa Clara. Responsibilities include station acoustics and speech intelligibility design and evaluation of operational train noise and vibration.
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California High-Speed Rail Fresno-Merced Corridor, Fresno-Merced, CA Lead noise analyst for the project’s environmental impact assessment. Tasks included characterizing the existing noise conditions and assessing noise impacts from transit operations and construction-related activities.
Caltrain Peninsula Corridor Electrification, San Francisco Peninsula, CA Analysed previous noise study. Assisted in developing current noise prediction model and GIS model for vibration. Helped prepare FEIR. This project included extensive ambient noise and vibration measurement surveys; the development of noise and vibration prediction models for HST operations; prediction of wayside noise and vibration levels for HST operations; evaluation of environmental noise and vibration impacts using FRA procedures and criteria and determining the need for and type of noise mitigation.
LA Metro Purple Line Section 3 Design-Build, Los Angeles, CA Responsible for developing detailed 3D computer models for two transit stations using EASE software.
Maryland Purple Line Station Acoustics, Baltimore, MD
Responsible for developing detailed 3D computer models for three transit stations using EASE software.
Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) Green Line Extension (GLX), Boston, MA Lead analyst on noise predictions and barrier design. Work included planning field measurements, conducting data analysis, predicting noise impacts from project operations, and making barrier design recommendations.
RTD Eagle P3 Northwest Corridor Noise and Impacts, Denver, CO Assisted with data analysis and helped prepare the final technical report. The project consists of 33 miles of EMU Commuter Rail connecting downtown Denver Union Station to the Denver International Airport. This project also includes a Commuter Rail Maintenance Facility with a capacity to store and service 100 EMU.
Santa Clara VTA, Vasona LRT Corridor Tire-Derived Aggregate (TDA) Underlayment Performance Testing, San Jose, CA
Project Manager in charge of planning a series of tests to document the performance of TDA ballast underlayment over time, as required by FTA. Previous tests were done in 2006, 2006, and 2009.
Work will include documenting vibration isolation performance, rail strain, and rail deflection.
Sound Transit Northgate Link Vibration Attenuation Estimates, Seattle, WA Provided general field support for all elements of testing. Tasks included moving equipment into/out of the tunnel, deploying sensors on campus, and attending to wireless antennas during testing. To derive the relationship between vibration measured in the Northgate link tunnel and building vibration at research facilities on the University of Washington campus, field tests were conducted using a shaker in the tunnel while simultaneously measuring the vibration response in UW buildings using a wireless data collection system.
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Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) Eglinton Crosstown LRT, Toronto, ON, Canada Reviewed historic reports for relevant data, assisted with GIS model and preparation for noise and vibration measurements. The TTC is planning to construct the Eglinton Tunnel subway line and needed to address what mitigation could be necessary to reduce ground-borne noise and vibration impacts. The proposed study would determine the most likely range of ground-borne noise and vibration levels in residences and other sensitive buildings along the planned alignment.
Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) Scarborough Subway Extension, Toronto, ON, Canada Conducted force density level (FDL) measurements and analysis for the Toronto Rocket vehicles on TTC standard double ties on the Toronto-York Spadina Subway Extension. Predicted ground-borne noise and vibration levels at sensitive receptors along the Scarborough extension and prepared project memos.
Transbay Program Downtown Rail Extension (DTX), San Francisco, CA Project Manager in charge of preliminary engineering noise and vibration analysis. The project consists of a 2.4-mile at-grade and tunnel alignment starting at the existing Caltrain terminal station and railyard and ending at the Salesforce Transit Center. Provided updated noise and vibration predictions for the project based on current design and abasement measure design recommendations based on new field testing and updated analysis.
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) On-Call Services, Washington, DC Conducted extensive field measurements inside homes and along tunnels to document groundborne noise and vibration due to WMATA Green Line trains. Performed rail roughness measurements along sections of track within the study area. Analyzed recordings to determine train passby levels and plotted data to compare results for the different vehicle fleets and compare to applicable criteria.
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) Vehicles Out-of-Round Wheel Study, DC
Assisted with modal analysis on nine wheelsets of WMATA vehicles.
STRUCTURES
101 Mass Avenue (aka Parcel 12), Boston, MA
Responsible for developing a Finite Element model of mixed-use development, built over MBTA commuter railway tracks, and spanning I-90 to analyse predicted building response to groundborne vibration. 206th Street Theater Vibration Study, New York, NY
Analyzed ground vibration measurements at the site of the planned theater located near NYCT rail lines.
Centene Corporation Theater, Clayton, MO
Conducted vibration measurements on the site to define and identify frequency and levels of vibration. The purpose of the study was to assess possible intrusion from trains and other sources into the proposed auditorium.
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WILSON IHRIG
Ani Toncheva – Page 7
David Geffen Hall Renovation, Lincoln Center Development, New York, NY Conducted vibration measurements on multiple levels of the existing David Geffen Hall structure to measure ground-borne vibration from subway trains. Performed background noise measurements inside the hall to determine ground-borne noise from subway trains.
Pace University Performing Arts, New York, NY
Conducted a vibration feasibility study for the proposed fit-out in an existing mixed-use commercial/residential building to accommodate the university’s dance program. The analysis included vibration measurements of the existing space to characterize the floor response and determine vibration transmission between the dance spaces and residences on the upper floors.
Estimated dance-induced vibration and provided recommendations on possible structural modifications to reduce vibration.
The Perelman Performing Arts Center at World Trade Center, New York, NY Conducted structure-borne vibration measurements as part of building vibration isolation design for future flexible space performing arts center. Conducted quality control field visits during isolation pad installation.
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10/4/25 (https://hkventures.sharepoint.com/sites/FileServer/Shared Documents/07_RE/EVP-2104_GatewayTerminal/02_Dev/04_A&E/CEQA (LSA)/SAFER Response/LSA Responses to the SAFER Appeal Comment Letter on Chino Gateway Terminal Project.docx) 56 This page intentionally left blank
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RESOLUTION NO. 2025-058
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHINO,
CALIFORNIA, DENYING SUPPORTERS ALLIANCE FOR ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY’S (SAFER) APPEAL AND APPROVING PL24-0097 (SPECIAL CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT). PL24-0098 (SITE APPROVAL), AND PL24-0120 (SPECIAL CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT) FOR THE
CONSTRUCTION OF THE CHINO GATEWAY TERMINAL PROJECT
CONSISTING OF A 158,548 SQUARE FOOT INDUSTRIAL WAREHOUSE BUILDING, A 3,540 SQUARE FOOT FOOD AND BEVERAGE BUILDING,
AND TO CONDITIONALLY PERMIT AN INDUSTRIAL BUILDING GREATER THAN 50,000 SQUARE FEET AND TO ALLOW RESTAURANTS IN THE LIGHT INDUSTRIAL (M1) ZONING DISTRICT, LOCATED AT THE
SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SCHAEFER AVENUE AND OAKS AVENUE
(APN: 1021-052-04, -06, -09, AND -11)
WHEREAS, on July 6, 2010, the City certified the City of Chino General Plan Environmental Impact Report (GPEIR) (SCH# 2008091064); and WHEREAS, Gateway Terminal LLC (the “Applicant”), has filed an application with the City of Chino (the “City”) for approval of PL24-0097 (Special Conditional Use Permit), PL24-0098 (Site Approval), and PL24-0120 (Special Conditional Use Permit) (the “Project”) to construct the Chino Gateway Terminal Project consisting of a 158,548 square foot warehouse industrial building, a 3,540 square foot restaurant building with an outdoor dining area, and to conditionally permit restaurants and a warehouse industrial building greater than 50,000 square feet, located on approximately 7.35 acres of land within the Light Industrial (M1) zoning district at the southwest corner of Schaefer Avenue and Oaks Avenue (APN: 1021-052-04, -06, -09, and -11); and WHEREAS, in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), an Addendum to the General Plan Environmental Impact Report (SCH# 2008091064) for the Chino Gateway Terminal Project, dated June 2025, has been prepared by LSA Associates, Inc.; and WHEREAS, a notice was published in the Chino Champion on July 5, 2025. Additionally, a 10-day notice was mailed to all property owners within a 300-foot radius of the project site, the City sent information out on the City’s social media platforms, and two freestanding signs were posted along each of the project’s street frontages in accordance with Section 20.23.140.D.1 of the City’s Zoning Code; and
WHEREAS, on July 15, 2025, Louzeau Drury, LLP, on behalf of the Supporters for Environmental Responsibility (SAFER) submitted an objection to the Project, objecting to the City’s reliance on an Addendum to the City of Chino General Plan Environmental Impact Report; and
WHEREAS, on July 16, 2025, the Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing for the Project in compliance with the law, and, after entertaining the written and oral report of staff, and taking public testimony from Mr. Jorge Zavala with Western States Regional Council of Carpenters who requested the Project be delayed until the developer could commit to hiring a local, skilled, and trained workforce, approved the Project by a vote of 6-1; and WHEREAS, SAFER (the “Appellant”) filed a timely appeal of the approval of the project; and
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WHEREAS, on September 16, 2025, prior to the City Council hearing, SAFER submitted additional information that was not included in their original appeal, detailing why the City’s reliance on an Addendum to the City of Chino General Plan Environmental Impact Report was insufficient; and
WHEREAS, on September 16, 2025, the City Council held a duly noticed public hearing to consider appellant’s appeal; and
WHEREAS, the Applicant requested a continuance of the Project to the October 21, 2025, City Council public hearing to allow adequate time to address the issues raised in SAFER’s letter; and
WHEREAS, on October 21, 2025, the City Council held a duly noticed public hearing to consider Appellant’s appeal, considered the written and oral report of staff and all oral and written evidence presented and closed the public hearing.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Chino, California, does hereby FIND, DETERMINE, and RESOLVE as follows:
A. The foregoing recitals are true and correct and incorporated herein.
B. Based on substantial evidence, both written and oral, from the public hearing, the City Council makes the following findings and takes the following actions on the appeal and on PL24- 0097 (Special Conditional Use Permit), PL24-0098 (Site Approval) and PL24-0120 (Special Conditional Use Permit):
1. PL24-0098 (Site Approval)
a. The proposed Project is consistent with the goals and policies of the City’s adopted General Plan and/or applicable specific plan(s). The Project site has a General Plan land use designation of Light Industrial (LI). The LI land use designation is intended for industrial uses with fewer impacts on traffic, noises, odors and pollutants and allows for a broad range of uses. The Project has been designed to meet applicable development standards and design guidelines. The Project serves General Plan Goal LU-2 and Objective LU-2.1 which aim to foster the development of new industrial uses in the City while preventing negative impacts on the health, safety, and welfare of residents and General Plan Objective LU-1.3 which encourages commercial development that will support and enhance vibrant commercial areas and serve existing neighborhoods;
b. The proposed Project is permitted within the zoning district in which it is proposed and complies with all applicable provisions of the City’s Zoning Code. The Project is located in the Light Industrial (M1) zoning district and consists of a 158,548 square foot warehouse industrial building and a 3,540 square foot food and beverage building with an outdoor dining area. The restaurant uses and the size of the warehouse building, which exceeds 50,000 square feet, require approval of a Special Conditional Use Permit. Additionally, the Project meets or exceeds all minimum development standards related to setbacks, building height, lot coverage, parking, and landscaping;
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c. The subject site is physically suitable, including, but not limited to, parcel size, shape, access and availability of utilities, for the type and intensity of use proposed, as all minimum zoning requirements governing parcel size, shape, access, type and intensity of development have been met or exceeded. The 7.35-acre site is flat and will have adequate infrastructure and four points of vehicular access from Schaefer Avenue and Oaks Avenue. Utilities and stormwater improvements will be extended to serve the site;
d. The subject site for the Project relates to streets and highways properly designed, both as to width and type of pavement to carry the type and quantity of traffic generated by the proposed Project, in that the Project site is located along Schaefer Avenue, which is designated as a primary arterial and Oaks Avenue, which is designated as an urban industrial collector. Access to the site is provided from the adjacent streets. Additionally, Schaefer Avenue is designated as a truck route. Both streets are currently improved and have adequate capacity to serve the proposed Project;
e. The proposed Project is compatible with those abutting properties and in the surrounding area. The Project is located within an area designated for industrial uses and is surrounded by existing industrial developments to the east, south and west. To the north, Schaefer Avenue separates the single-family residential development from the Project. The Project will have no significant negative light, noise, and aesthetic impacts, as the building has been designed to meet all development and design requirements of the M1 zoning district, in which it is located;
f. The proposed location, size, and operating characteristics of the proposed Project will not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety or general welfare, as the proposed Project consists of a mixed-use development with an industrial building and a food and beverage building, which is consistent with the M1 zoning district. In addition, certain safeguards have been required of the proposed Project, which the Planning Commission deems necessary to protect the public health, safety, and general welfare. These safeguards (Conditions of Approval) are attached hereto as Exhibit “A”;
g. The proposed Project will not have a significant adverse impact on the environment as an Addendum to the City of Chino General Plan Environmental Impact Report (SCH# 2008091064) for the Chino Gateway Terminal Project has been prepared for this Project pursuant to Section 15164 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines. The Project is within the scope of the EIR, which adequately describes the activity for the purposes of CEQA. The Addendum satisfies the requirement of CEQA and the CEQA Guidelines (California Public Resources Code §§ 21000 et seq.; 14 Cal. Code Regs. §§ 15000 et seq.); and h. The minimum safeguards necessary to protect the public health, safety and general welfare have been required of the proposed Project and have been imposed as conditions of Project approval by the Chino Planning Commission. In addition, certain safeguards have been required of the proposed Project, which the Planning Commission deems necessary to protect the public health, safety, and general welfare. These safeguards (Conditions of Approval) are attached hereto as Exhibit “A”.
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2. PL24-0097 (Special Conditional Use Permit – Warehouse Building ≥ 50,000SF) a. The proposed use is consistent with the goals and policies of the City’s adopted General Plan and/or applicable specific plan(s), in that the proposed use consists of an industrial building exceeding 50,000 square feet, which is permitted subject to approval of a SCUP. The use supports General Plan Goal LU-2 and Objective LU-2.1, which aims to foster the development of new industrial uses that contributes to the City’s economic development, while ensuring such uses are planned and designed to prevent negative impacts on the health, safety, and welfare of residents;
b. The subject site is physically suitable, including but not limited to, parcel size, shape, access and availability of utilities, for the type and intensity of use proposed, as all minimum zoning requirements governing parcel size, shape access, type and intensity of the use have already been met or exceeded and the appropriate infrastructure and public improvements are conditioned to be constructed with the development. Additionally, the proposed 158,548 square foot industrial building meets all requirements and development standards in the Zoning Ordinance; c. The subject site relates to streets and highways properly designed, both as to width and type of pavement to carry the type and quantity of traffic generated by the proposed use; as the 158,548 square foot industrial building will have direct access from one driveway off Schaefer Avenue and a second driveway off Oaks Avenue.
Schaefer Avenue is designated as a primary arterial and truck route and Oaks Avenue is designated as an urban industrial collector, both streets designed to carry the volume of traffic typically generated by the use; d. The proposed use is compatible with those on abutting properties and in the surrounding neighborhood. The Project is located within an area designated for industrial uses and is surrounded by existing industrial developments to the east, south and west. To the north, Schaefer Avenue, separates the single-family residential development from the use. The use will have no significant negative light, noise, and aesthetic impacts, as the building has been designed to meet all development and design requirements of the M1 zoning district, in which it is located. Additionally, the M1 zoning district is intended for industrial uses that are less intensive;
e. The proposed location, size, and operating characteristics of the proposed use will not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety or general welfare, as the 158,548 square foot industrial building is allowed in the M1 zoning district, subject to the approval of a SCUP. In addition, certain safeguards have been required of the proposed use, which the Planning Commission deems necessary to protect the public health, safety, and general welfare. These safeguards (Conditions of Approval) are attached hereto as Exhibit “A”;
f. The proposed Project will not have a significant adverse impact on the environment as an Addendum to the City of Chino General Plan Environmental Impact Report (SCH# 2008091064) for the Chino Gateway Terminal Project has been prepared for this Project pursuant to Section 15164 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines. The Project is within the scope of the EIR, which 588
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adequately describes the activity for the purposes of CEQA. The Addendum satisfies the requirement of CEQA and the CEQA Guidelines (California Public Resources Code §§ 21000 et seq.; 14 Cal. Code Regs. §§ 15000 et seq.); and g. The minimum safeguards necessary to protect the public health, safety and general welfare have been required of the proposed Project and have been imposed as conditions of Project approval by the Chino Planning Commission. In addition, certain safeguards have been required of the proposed use, which the Planning Commission deems necessary to protect the public health, safety, and general welfare. These safeguards (Conditions of Approval) are attached hereto as Exhibit “A”.
3. PL24-0120 (Special Conditional Use Permit - Restaurant):
a. The proposed use is consistent with the goals and policies of the City’s adopted General Plan and/or applicable specific plan(s); in that the proposed use consists of individual restaurants located within a multi-tenant building. The proposed use is permitted, subject to approval of a SCUP Furthermore, Objective LU-1.3 of the City’s General Plan encourages commercial development that will support and enhance vibrant commercial areas to serve existing neighborhoods with a combination of daily and specialty daily needs;
b. The subject site is physically suitable, including, but not limited to, parcel size, shape, access and availability of utilities, for the type and intensity of use proposed, as all minimum zoning requirements governing parcel size, shape access, type and intensity of development have already been met or exceeded and the appropriate infrastructure and public improvements are conditioned to be constructed with the development;
c. The subject site relates to streets and highways properly designed, both as to width and type of pavement to carry the type and quantity of traffic generated by the proposed use; as the restaurant building will have direct access from one driveway off Schaefer Avenue a second driveway off Oaks Avenue. Schaefer Avenue is designated as a primary arterial and Oaks Avenue is designated as an urban industrial collector, both streets designed to carry the volume of traffic typically generated by the proposed restaurant use;
d. The proposed use is compatible with those on abutting properties and in the surrounding neighborhood, in that restaurants in the M1 zoning district are allowed, subject to approval of a SCUP. The proposed food and beverage building is located within an area designated for industrial uses and is surrounded by existing industrial developments to the east, south and west. The restaurant component is strategically located at the northeast corner of the project site, serving as a transitional buffer between the single-family residential neighborhood, separated by Schaefer Avenue, and the larger warehouse industrial building to the south. The use will have no significant negative light, noise, and aesthetic impacts, as the building has been designed to meet all development and design requirements of the M1 zoning district, in which it is located;
e. The proposed location, size, and operating characteristics of the proposed use will not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety or general welfare, as 589
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restaurant uses are allowed in the M1 zoning district, subject to the approval of a SCUP. In addition, certain safeguards have been required of the proposed Project, which the Planning Commission deems necessary to protect the public health, safety, and general welfare. These safeguards (Conditions of Approval) are attached hereto as Exhibit “A”;
f. The proposed Project will not have a significant adverse impact on the environment as an Addendum to the City of Chino General Plan Environmental Impact Report (SCH# 2008091064) for the Chino Gateway Terminal Project has been prepared for this Project pursuant to Section 15164 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines. The Project is within the scope of the EIR, which adequately describes the activity for the purposes of CEQA. The Addendum satisfies the requirement of CEQA and the CEQA Guidelines (California Public Resources Code §§ 21000 et seq.; 14 Cal. Code Regs. §§ 15000 et seq.); and g. The minimum safeguards necessary to protect the public health, safety and general welfare have been required of the proposed Project and have been imposed as conditions of Project approval by the Chino Planning Commission. In addition, certain safeguards have been required of the proposed Project, which the Planning Commission deems necessary to protect the public health, safety, and general welfare. These safeguards (Conditions of Approval) are attached hereto as Exhibit “A”.
4. CEQA Findings. An Addendum to the City of Chino General Plan Environmental Impact Report (SCH# 2008091064) for the Chino Gateway Terminal Project has been prepared by LSA Associates, Inc. for this Project pursuant to Section 15164 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines. The City Council has considered the Addendum and Environmental Impact Report as part of its decision on this Project pursuant to Section 15164. The City Council hereby finds that the Project is within the scope of the EIR, which adequately describes the activity for the purposes of CEQA. The City Council hereby finds that the Project will not have any impacts that would require a revision to the EIR or any other additional environmental review.
5. Deny the appeal and grant approval of PL24-0097 (Special Conditional Use Permit), PL24-0098 (Site Approval) and PL24-0120 (Special Conditional Use Permit). The City Council hereby makes the following findings:
a. SAFER’s appeal presents vague and unsupported claims that new information, significant environmental impacts and/or mitigation measures may have emerged since the 2010 GPEIR was certified and therefore claims that a new EIR or Negative Declaration is required. However, the Addendum and the Planning Commission’s decision were based on comprehensive technical analysis that evaluated the Project’s environmental impacts.
b. The Addendum provided: 1) a detailed summary of relevant General Plan policies for each environmental topic addressed in the GPEIR; 2) the level of impact for each environmental topic identified in the GPEIR; and 3) an evaluation of the Project’s impacts compared to those analyzed in the GPEIR. The Addendum appropriately compared the impacts of the Project with those anticipated from full General Plan buildout. This is backed by the numerous technical studies that evaluated potential impacts and concluded that no additional mitigation would be 590
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required for the Project. Based on this analysis, the Planning Commission found no evidence that the Project would result in new or more severe significant impacts than those previously identified in the GPEIR.
c. As documented in the Addendum, the Project would not result in any new significant impacts, nor would it cause a substantial increase in the severity of existing impacts beyond those addressed in the GPEIR. The Project’s potential impacts are equal or less than those evaluated in the GPEIR. Additionally, there have been no substantial changes in the Project’s conditions or location that would lead to new or more severe environmental impacts. Therefore, no new information has been identified that would require further CEQA review under Section 15162.
Based on such findings, the City Council hereby denies the appeal and approves PL24- 0097 (Special Conditional Use Permit), PL24-0098 (Site Approval) and PL24-0120 (Special Conditional Use Permit) subject to the Conditions of Approval attached hereto as Exhibit “A”. Applicant, including its successors and assigns, shall be responsible for implementing and complying with all conditions set forth in Exhibit “A”.
6. Actions by the City Clerk. The City Clerk is hereby directed to attest to the adoption of this Resolution as of the date set forth below and forthwith transmit a copy of this Resolution, by regular mail, to the Applicant at the address of record set forth in the Application.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED THIS 21ST DAY OF OCTOBER 2025.
EUNICE M. ULLOA, MAYOR
ATTEST:
NATALIE GONZAGA, CITY CLERK
State of California )
County of San Bernardino ) §
City of Chino )
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I hereby certify the foregoing Resolution was duly adopted by the Chino City Council at a meeting held on the 21st day of October 2025 and entered in the minutes of said Commission.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS:
CITY CLERK
Attachment: Exhibit A – Conditions of Approval
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EXHIBIT A
DEPARTMENTAL
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
DATE: July 16, 2025
PROJECT FILE NO.: PL24-0097 (Special Conditional Use Permit), PL24-0098 (Site Approval), and PL24-0120 (Special Conditional Use Permit) LOCATION: Southwest corner of Schaefer Avenue and Oaks Avenue (APN: 1021-052-04, -06, -09 and -11)
APPLICANT: Gateway Terminal LLC
The departments listed below have reviewed the above referenced application. Those departments marked with an “X” have required conditions of approval to be imposed on the project.
Development Services Department –
[X] Planning Division
[ ] ADA Accessibility Division
Public Works Department –
[X] Engineering Division
[ ] Traffic Division
[X] Chino Valley Independent Fire District
[ ] Police Department
[ ] Finance Department
[ ] Community Services, Parks & Recreation Department
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DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT
PLANNING DIVISION CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
DATE: July 16, 2025
PROJECT FILE NO.: PL24-0097 (Special Conditional Use Permit), PL24-0098 (Site Approval) and PL24-0120 (Special Conditional Use Permit) LOCATION: Southwest corner of Schaefer Avenue and Oaks Avenue (APN: 1021-052-04, -06, -09 and -11)
APPLICANT: Gateway Terminal LLC
NOTE: CONDITION IN BOLD WAS ADDED BY THE PLANNING COMMISSION.
1.0 TIME LIMITS:
1.1. The above referenced Site Approval and Special Conditional Use Permits shall expire on July 16, 2026, if building permits are not obtained and/or the approved uses have not commenced. The expiration date may be extended upon written request by the applicant on a City application form.
The request must be received by the Director of Development Services at least 30 days prior to expiration of the application.
1.2. Should any of the special conditionally permitted uses cease to exist for 180 or more consecutive days, then the permit shall be deemed null and void.
2.0 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:
2.1. Failure to comply with any conditions of approval shall be deemed just cause for revocation of project approval by the Planning Commission and/or City Council.
2.2. The project shall proceed only in accordance with the approved plans on file with the Development Services Department, and with the conditions contained herein and the Chino Municipal Code.
2.3. The Director of Development Services shall have the authority to approve minor deviations in the site plan, architecture and/or landscape providing the total approved building area is not exceeded. If it is determined that 594
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT PLANNING DIVISION
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
FILE NO.: PL24-0097 (SCUP), -0098 (SA) & -0120 (SCUP) DATE: July 16, 2025 the changes will be substantial, approval from the Planning Commission will be required.
2.4. Approval of this request shall not waive compliance with any section of the Chino Municipal Code, or any other applicable City ordinances, or applicable specific plan provision.
2.5. Pursuant to Government Code Section 66020, upon approval of the project, the applicant has a 90-day period in which to protest the fees, dedications, reservation or other exaction imposed on this project through the conditions of approval.
2.6. In the event that any condition contained herein is determined to be invalid or legally unenforceable, all remaining conditions shall remain in force.
2.7. In the event that any condition imposing a fee, exaction, dedication, or other mitigation measure is challenged by the applicant and/or other parties in an action filed in a court of law, which action is brought within the time period provided for by law, this approval shall be suspended pending dismissal of such action, the expiration of the limitation period applicable to such action, or final resolution of such action. If any condition is invalidated by a court of law, the applicable section of the entire project shall be reviewed by the City and substitute conditions may be imposed.
2.8. The applicant shall indemnify the City and its elected boards, commissions, officers, agents and employees and will hold and save them and each of them harmless from any and all actions, claims, liabilities, losses, damages, penalties, obligations and expenses, including but not limited to attorneys’ fees and costs, (collectively “claims”) against the City for any such claims and shall be responsible for any judgment arising therefrom. The City shall provide the applicant with notice of the pendency of such action and shall request that the applicant defend such action. The applicant may utilize the City Attorney’s office or use legal counsel of its choosing, but shall reimburse the City for any necessary legal cost incurred by City, including for the City’s required participation in defense of the claims. The applicant shall provide a deposit in the amount of 100% of the City’s estimate, in its sole and absolute discretion, of the cost of litigation, including the cost of any award of attorney’s fees, and shall make additional deposits as requested by City to keep the deposit at such level. If the applicant fails to provide or maintain the deposit, the City may abandon the action and the applicant shall pay all costs resulting therefrom and City shall have no liability to the applicant.
2.9. The City of Chino has an executive contract with Waste Management for all solid waste collection and hauling services within the City. The 595
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CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
FILE NO.: PL24-0097 (SCUP), -0098 (SA) & -0120 (SCUP) DATE: July 16, 2025 applicant shall be responsible for making arrangements with Waste Management for disposal of any/all construction debris or trash generated as a result of this permit. Waste Management can be reached at 1-800 423-9986.
2.10. Any change in the project shall be reviewed by the Development Services Department for compliance with CEQA.
2.11. All proposed signs shall be designed to conform with the City’s Sign Code (Chino Municipal Code, Title 16 – Signs) and shall require separate application and approval by the Director of Development Services prior to installation.
2.12. Pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21089 and Fish and Wildlife Code Section 711.4, the developer shall provide those fees marked [X] below in the form of a check made payable to the San Bernardino County Clerk of the Board of Supervisors within 5 days of Planning Commission approval. Project approval shall not be complete until the required fee(s) is (are) paid:
[X] $50 for the Notice of Determination filing fee.
3.0 PRIOR TO THE ISSUANCE OF A BUILDING AND/OR GRADING PERMIT:
3.1. The applicant/developer shall pay development impact fees at the established rate. Such fees may include, but not be limited to, new construction fee, park or open space fees, school fees, drainage fees, sewer fees, building permit and plan check fees.
3.2. Revised plans, incorporating all conditions of approval, shall be submitted and approved by the Director of Development Services.
3.3. All plans shall be coordinated for consistency.
3.4. The applicant/developer shall submit two sets of structural plans/construction documents. The plans shall include one set of structural calculations, one set of Title 24 energy calculations, and one soils report. The applicant/developer shall also submit the above documents in digital format to the Building Division once approved.
3.5. A construction management plan shall be submitted and approved by the Director of Development Services. The plan shall coordinate and address construction activities that may impact residents and/or surrounding businesses in adjacent areas. Elements of the plan shall contain, but not be limited to, the following:
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CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
FILE NO.: PL24-0097 (SCUP), -0098 (SA) & -0120 (SCUP) DATE: July 16, 2025 a. Routing of construction equipment
b. Hours of operation
c. Dust control
d. Vector control
e. Vehicle, equipment, and personnel staging
f. Pre-construction meetings
g. Contractor/subcontractor acknowledgement, obligations, and penalties h. Traffic control and coordination
i. Security and interim fencing
j. Signs posted on the site with a contact number for the job site construction manager and the City’s Code Enforcement Division. Signs shall measure at least four feet by eight feet and shall be posted along every street frontage. The developer shall contact the City immediately upon any change in contact numbers.
k. Building and landscape phasing. This plan shall show which buildings and landscaping will be completed in which phases, and how each completed phase will be closed off from phases under construction so as to minimize conflict between construction vehicles, construction equipment, employees, and residents, as applicable.
3.6. A precise wall plan identifying the design, location and construction details of all walls and fences shall be submitted and approved by the Planning and Building Divisions. All perimeter and street-facing walls, including retaining walls, shall be decorative in nature.
3.7. Prior to the issuance of any grading permit, detailed on-site landscaping and irrigation construction drawings along with a copy of the Planning Commission approved conceptual landscape plans and a copy of the conditions of approval shall be submitted for review and approval by the Director of Development Services. A grading permit will not be issued until the City’s outside plan checker has completed one review of detailed landscape and irrigation plans for the development. Payment of the Landscape & Irrigation Plan Review Fee shall be due at the time of submittal. Plans shall be prepared to comply with the City’s Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance, adopted on October 6, 2015, Ordinance No. 2015-008, meet the requirements for a Landscape Documentation Package in accordance with Section 20.19.030 of the Landscape Ordinance, and shall bear the seal of a landscape architect registered with the state of California. If the site includes areas proposed to be placed within a City-maintained Landscape Maintenance District, then the plans shall be prepared on City of Chino, Engineering Division base sheets, and shall bear the seal of a landscape architect registered with the state of California. Original mylars shall be submitted to the City upon approval of plans by the City Engineer.
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CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
FILE NO.: PL24-0097 (SCUP), -0098 (SA) & -0120 (SCUP) DATE: July 16, 2025
3.7.1. To minimize damage to paved areas due to tree root growth, trees located within five (5) feet of any paved surface area, shall be provided with root barriers unless it can be demonstrated, to the satisfaction of the Planning Division, that the root growth characteristics of the type of tree proposed does not warrant their installation.
3.8. Approval of the conceptual landscape plan by the Planning Commission does not constitute final approval. The final landscape approval (during the plan check process and/or following installation) shall be subject to the review and approval of the City’s Landscape Architect Consultant and the Director of Development Services. The City Landscape Architect or Director of Development Services may require additional/fewer trees, shrubs, vines, and ground cover as necessary, based on final site conditions during the landscape plan check process or field review process in order to mitigate any site conditions that were not apparent during either the Planning Commission review or plan check review process.
3.9. All new ground-mounted utilities, including but not limited to cable television facilities, and telephone/fiber optic facilities, shall be undergrounded. Equipment that is not placed underground such as SCE transformers, backflow prevention devices, irrigation valves and controllers used for common landscape areas shall be placed in areas out of public view and sufficiently screened. The location and method of screening shall be reflected in a plan and shall be subject to the review and approval by the Director of Development Services.
3.10. All electrical panels and cabinets shall be completely screened. All electrical panels and cabinets shall be fully enclosed and integrated into and architecturally compatible with the building to the satisfaction of the Director of Development Services. The locations of the electrical panels and cabinets shall be reflected on a site plan and elevation(s) to be reviewed and approved by the Director of Development Services.
3.11. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, the approved grading plans shall be attached to the construction plan set. The project shall be built according to the plans approved by the Planning Commission on July 16, 2025, as prepared by Gateway Terminal LLC, O.C. Design & Engineering, Phil May Landscape Architecture and Pacific Consulting Group, Inc. Any substantial modification to the project shall require Planning Commission review and approval. If minor in nature, the modification may be reviewed and approved by the Development Services Director.
598
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT PLANNING DIVISION
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
FILE NO.: PL24-0097 (SCUP), -0098 (SA) & -0120 (SCUP) DATE: July 16, 2025
3.12. A detailed on-site exterior lighting plan shall be submitted and approved by the Director of Development Services. Plans shall be designed pursuant to Chino Municipal Code Section 20.10.090 (Outdoor Lighting) and shall identify fixture design, illumination (photometric), location, height and method of shielding, so as not to adversely affect adjacent properties.
3.13. Upon submittal of construction drawings to the Building Division for plan check review, all departmental conditions of approval for the project shall be included on the sheet following the title sheet, or the first sheet of the plans. A site plan shall also be attached to all sets of construction drawings. The condition shall be a minimum requirement for acceptance of construction drawings for the Building plan check review.
3.14. The applicant is required to contact the West Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District to determine if an inspection or field survey of potential vectors and their ectoparasites is necessary. If the District so determines, an inspection or field survey shall be conducted by the District, at the applicant’s expense, prior to demolition or grading in order to protect the health of and reduce the risk of neighboring residents to vector-borne diseases. Based on the inspection or survey results, the applicant shall take appropriate vector control methods as recommended by the District.
3.15. A Water Quality Management Plan shall be prepared in accordance with County of San Bernardino requirements and submitted and approved by the City.
3.16. No grading permits shall be issued until all applicable biological resource mitigation measures, identified in the Addendum to the City of Chino General Plan Certified Environmental Impact Report (SCH# 2008091064) for the Chino Gateway Terminal Project, prepared by LSA Associates, Inc., dated June 2025, as they apply to the project area, have been complied with to the satisfaction of the Director of Development Services.
3.17. Special Condition:
3.17.1. The applicant shall reinforce the outdoor seating area to protect patrons and minimize damage in the event of a
vehicular collision, subject to review and approval of the Director of Development Services.
4.0 PRIOR TO START OF CONSTRUCTION:
4.1. A pre-construction meeting, scheduled with the Building Division, shall be held with all applicable City staff members, developer, contractor, superintendent, and all applicable subcontractors.
599
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT PLANNING DIVISION
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
FILE NO.: PL24-0097 (SCUP), -0098 (SA) & -0120 (SCUP) DATE: July 16, 2025
4.2. The final landscape and irrigation plans for the development shall be approved by the Director of Development Services.
4.3. The approved construction management plan shall be distributed to all contractors and subcontractors and shall be maintained on-site through the duration of construction.
5.0 PRIOR TO THE ISSUANCE OF A CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY:
5.1. All conditions of approval shall be completed to the satisfaction of the Director of Development Services.
5.2. The fee for review of the landscaping and irrigation plans by both the City and the City’s landscape architect shall be paid by the developer.
5.3. All landscaping and irrigation shall be installed in accordance with the approved Planning Commission plans on file with the Development Services Department, and irrigation systems fully operational. In addition, all hardscaped and landscaped areas shall be free of trash and debris.
5.4. A licensed landscape architect or contractor, or other licensed certified professional in a related field shall conduct a final field inspection and shall prepare a certificate of completion, which shall be filed with the Director of Development Services. The certificate of completion shall be prepared in accordance with Section 20.19.030.J of the Landscape Ordinance, and shall specifically indicate that plants were installed as specified by the landscape design plan, that the irrigation system was installed as specified by the irrigation design plan, and that an irrigation audit has been performed. All landscape and irrigation audits shall be conducted by a landscape irrigation auditor. Landscape audits shall not be conducted by the person who designed the landscape or installed the landscape.
5.5. A landscape maintenance program for the entire project site shall be reviewed and approved by the Director of Development Services. The maintenance program shall include general landscape maintenance provisions for pruning, trimming, the replacement of any dead, decayed, or diseased vegetation, ongoing weed abatement, and replacement/repair of the irrigation system, when necessary. The landscape maintenance program shall be included with the contract with the landscape maintenance company to ensure they implement the maintenance program. In addition, the maintenance program should include provisions for periodic inspections to ensure the irrigation system is working properly, and all landscaping is being properly maintained.
600
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT PLANNING DIVISION
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
FILE NO.: PL24-0097 (SCUP), -0098 (SA) & -0120 (SCUP) DATE: July 16, 2025
5.6. Prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the final unit, any temporary sales and/or construction office buildings/trailers shall be removed from the site.
5.7. The project site shall be clean and free of trash and construction debris, and all construction equipment shall be removed from the site.
6.0 ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS & MITIGATION MEASURES:
6.1. Comply with all mitigation measures identified in the attached Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program contained within the Addendum to the City of Chino General Plan Certified Environmental Impact Report (SCH# 2008091064) for the Chino Gateway Terminal Project and attached as Exhibit “A” to the conditions of approval, which identifies each environmental mitigation measure, the time in which it will be implemented and the responsible party for monitoring its implementation.
7.0 OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
7.1. The applicant shall disclose to all potential tenants or owners of units or buildings that the businesses/uses must be consistent with the standards of the land use designation/zoning district in which the project site is located.
7.2. All existing buildings or structures on the project site that are proposed to be demolished shall be removed or razed within 90 days of the existing church vacating the site or issuance of a grading permit, whichever occurs first. The Director of Development Services may approve an extension of time to complete the demolition, based on evidence that the applicant has exercised reasonable progress. Approval of this application shall be deemed null and void upon failure of the applicant to comply with this condition within the aforementioned time periods.
7.3. The project site shall be cleared of all trash, debris, weeds, and other discarded items within two weeks of Planning Commission approval.
Approval of this application shall be deemed null and void upon failure of the applicant to comply with this condition within the aforementioned time period.
7.4. A coating that will facilitate the removal of graffiti shall be applied over the complete height of one side/both sides of walls and/or fences, and to a height of eight feet on building walls. If a coating is not provided, the owner of the property shall paint the buildings and/or walls to remove graffiti within 72 hours of notice.
601
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT PLANNING DIVISION
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
FILE NO.: PL24-0097 (SCUP), -0098 (SA) & -0120 (SCUP) DATE: July 16, 2025
7.5. All signs, including subdivision and/or realty signs proposed for this development shall be designed to conform to the Sign Ordinance and shall require separate application and approval by the Planning and Building Divisions prior to installation.
7.6. Building and Site Design:
7.6.1. Exterior building color shall be reviewed and approved by the Director of Development Services. Colors shall be coordinated between structures, utilizing compatible hues and intensities.
Final review and approval of paint colors utilizing a color test may be required prior to painting any structure, if determined necessary in the field by the Director of Development Services.
7.6.2. All building drainage gutters, downspouts, vents, etc., located on the exterior walls shall be architecturally compatible with the exterior building design and color, to the satisfaction of the Director of Development Services, or shall be completely concealed from view. They shall not be located on the exterior of building walls near office areas or other prominent locations on the building(s).
7.6.3. All new mechanical equipment and appurtenances of any type (including, but not limited to, electrical cabinets, HVAC equipment, skylights, stack vents or fans) whether located on rooftops, ground level or anywhere on the building structure, shall be completely screened so as not to be visible from any public street and/or adjacent property, subject to review and approval by the Director of Development Services. The parapet wall should serve as the primary method of screening, or the facilities shall be enclosed within the structure of the building. Such enclosure of facilities shall be of compatible design related to building structure for which such facilities are intended to serve.
7.6.4. Returns for parapet walls shall not be visible from public view and shall be evaluated in the field during construction, and modified if necessary so as not to be visible. All parapet returns shall be a minimum of 4 feet deep.
7.6.5. New ladders for roof access shall be mounted on the inside of the building or shall be completely concealed from view for commercial and industrial projects.
7.6.6. All new overhead doors, mechanical doors and/or man doors shall be color coordinated with the building.
602
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT PLANNING DIVISION
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
FILE NO.: PL24-0097 (SCUP), -0098 (SA) & -0120 (SCUP) DATE: July 16, 2025
7.6.7. An outdoor employee break area shall be provided at the northwest corner of the project site, in front of the industrial warehouse building. This area shall be provided with seating, tables, enhanced paving treatments, hose bibs, decorative trash receptacles, a shade trellis structure, and shade trees, to the satisfaction of the Director of Development Services.
7.6.8. All landscaping shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section 20.19 of the Chino Municipal Code.
7.7. Parking and Lighting:
7.7.1. All exterior lighting fixtures shall be installed in accordance with plans on file with the Development Services Department and shall be fully operational prior to occupancy.
7.7.2. All building-mounted light fixtures within public areas shall be decorative in nature and architecturally compatible with the building. Building-mounted light fixtures shall be reviewed and approved by the Director of Development Services prior to installation. “Wall-paks” or other standardized exterior lighting shall not be permitted within public areas.
7.7.3. All parking and loading areas shall be paved and double-striped in accordance with plans on file with the Development Services Department, Chino Municipal Code Chapter 20.18 (Parking) and the disabled parking and accessibility requirements of state law (see the CalDAG—California Disabled Accessibility Guidebook).
7.7.4. Drive surfaces contiguous with planter areas shall have a 6-inch raised curb separation.
7.7.5. All parking spaces, aisles, entrances and exits shall be doublestriped per City standards.
7.7.6. All parking spaces for compact cars shall be clearly identified as "Compact Car Only" on the pavement, at the opening of the space. Compact parking spaces shall be reasonably distributed throughout the parking area, subject to review and approval by the Director of Development Services.
7.8. Refuse and Recycling:
7.8.1. Separate receptacles (bins) for the collection of refuse, recyclable, and organics materials shall be provided. An adequate 603
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT PLANNING DIVISION
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
FILE NO.: PL24-0097 (SCUP), -0098 (SA) & -0120 (SCUP) DATE: July 16, 2025 number of bins to allow for the collection of refuse recyclable, and organic materials generated by the development shall be provided.
7.8.2. Refuse, recyclable, and organics materials bins shall be enclosed by a 6-foot-high (1.83 m) wall with a solid roof that is designed to be architecturally compatible with the building(s), with solid view obstructing gates fitted with self-closing door devices and be designed with cane bolts in front of the block walls to secure the gates when in the open position. The gates should also be equipped with rod locks and corresponding rod holes in both the open and closed gate positions. Bins containing recyclable materials shall be provided protection from adverse environmental conditions that might render the collection materials
unmarketable.
7.8.3. No refuse/recycling/organic enclosure shall be located within any required setback area.
7.8.4. All refuse, recyclable and organic material bin enclosures not located in private yard areas shall be screened with landscaping on all sides, with the exception of the gate area. All sides of the enclosure, with the exception of the gate area, shall be surrounded by a minimum 18” wide planter area for the purpose of providing landscape material.
7.8.5. Refuse storage, recycling and organic areas shall not be used for the storage of materials other than that for which it is designed (refuse, recyclable and organic materials). The premises shall be kept in a neat and orderly condition, and in good repair and appearance at all times.
7.9. Phased Projects:
7.9.1. All required street improvements and a minimum of 10 feet of landscaping on private property shall be installed in conjunction with the construction of Phase 1 of the proposed project. The landscaping within this area shall be included in the landscape maintenance program.
7.9.2. Prior to the first occupancy permit, all undeveloped building pads shall be improved according to the following requirements:
7.9.3. For an undeveloped building pad located adjacent to the street or main drive aisle of the site, the area shall be landscaped with a 604
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT PLANNING DIVISION
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
FILE NO.: PL24-0097 (SCUP), -0098 (SA) & -0120 (SCUP) DATE: July 16, 2025 planting scheme consisting of a low-maintenance drought tolerant erosion control mix of Cucamonga brome (20 lbs/acre), tomcat clover (4 lbs/acre and small fescue (8 lbs/acre) at a minimum of 85% PLS (pure live seed). The irrigation system shall consist of low precipitation sprinkler heads and/or drip system. In addition, shrubs may be required to provide screening from the street, if determined needed by the Director of Development Services.
Said treatment shall be incorporated into the required landscape and irrigation plans.
7.9.4. For a larger phased area located on the interior of the site, a construction fence/green screen may be provided in lieu of the landscape treatment. The fence shall be maintained in good condition at all times.
7.10. Chino Climate Action Plan:
7.10.1. Per Section 15.45.070 of the Chino Municipal Code, demonstrate consistency with the Chino Climate Action Plan by implementing one of the following three options:
a) Exceed the mandatory California Energy Code Title 24, Part 6 standards in effect at the time of application submittal by 5%; or b) Achieve an equivalent reduction through voluntary measures in the California Green Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 11 (CALGreen) in effect at the time of application submittal; or c) Provide other equivalent greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions through measures including but not limited to, non-vehicle transportation infrastructure, transit, ZEV (zero emission vehicle) infrastructure or other incentives, waste diversion, water conservation, tree planting, renewable energy option packages, or any combination of these or other measures such that GHG emissions are reduced by 0.74 MT CO2e per residential dwelling unit per year and/or per TSF of commercial/industrial use per year.
Applicants that choose Option a described above will be required to verify that their project meets the 5% improvement above the mandatory standards through the appropriate certificate of compliance form for residential construction (CF-1R) or for commercial/industrial construction (PERF-1C). Applicants that choose Options b or c described above will be required to utilize the GHG Performance Standard Checklist developed by the City, or provide other valid documentation, such as CalEEMod or other methodologies, as verified by the Director of Development 605
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT PLANNING DIVISION
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
FILE NO.: PL24-0097 (SCUP), -0098 (SA) & -0120 (SCUP) DATE: July 16, 2025 Services to demonstrate the required GHG reductions consistent with the City's CAP.
8.0 CONSTRUCTION SITE SECURITY:
8.1. Each site shall be completely encircled by a minimum 6' tall securityquality chain link fence once precise grading has been completed or as determined by the Deputy Director of Development Services.
8.2. Tennis court or similar screening material shall be securely attached for the length of the fence, excluding gates and 10' on either side of gates.
8.3. Each site shall have only one entry/exit gate, or as approved by the Planning Division.
8.4. Gate hinge pins shall be spot-welded or altered in such a way as to prevent easy removal.
8.5. Each gate shall have a casehardened lock and chain, or other equivalent security hardware.
8.6. “No Trespassing” signs shall be attached to the exterior of the fence at a minimum distance of a third of a mile and at all entrances.
8.7. On or near the exterior of each gate will be a sign with the address of the site in no less than 6" letters. Both the number and street name will be listed on the sign. The address posted will be used for the entire site until the fence is removed and individual addresses assigned.
8.8. Office trailers and tool bins shall be placed adjacent to gates inside the property to allow observation from outside.
8.9. Lighting on trailers and bins is desirable but shall be directed into the property so as not to impede outside observation or endanger nearby traffic with glare.
8.10. Tool bins shall be secured with casehardened locks, preferably with lock guards.
8.11. A sign stating that theft is not acceptable on the site and will be reported to the police, or wording to that effect, will be displayed prominently near each entrance.
8.12. Each site will have an assigned Crime Prevention Manager who is responsible for the following:
606
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT PLANNING DIVISION
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
FILE NO.: PL24-0097 (SCUP), -0098 (SA) & -0120 (SCUP) DATE: July 16, 2025 a. Providing his/her name and 24-hour telephone access number to the Chino Police Department.
b. Have available at all times the names and 24-hour contact numbers for all subcontractors.
c. Have the authority to speak for the development/owners on matters concerning trespassing and other criminal matters.
d. Complete routine fence inspections and arrange for prompt repairs or removal of any damage, graffiti, or loose screening. e. Ensure that no work or maintenance of construction equipment is being performed on the site between 8 PM and 7 AM.
f. Ensure that all above security requirements are complied with, and that all security hardware, fencing, and lighting are maintained in working order.
g. Ensure that thefts are immediately reported to the police department and that reasonable steps are taken, if evident, to prevent future similar incidents.
9.0 THE APPROVED USES SHALL BE OPERATED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING:
9.1. All operations shall not create a nuisance due to noise, odor, dust, mud, smoke, steam, vibration or other similar causes.
9.2. The operation or activity shall not cause the emission of any smoke, fly ash, dust, fumes, vapors, gases, or other forms of air pollution that can cause damage to human health, vegetation, or other forms of air pollution that can cause excessive soiling on any other parcel. No emission shall be permitted which exceeds the requirements of the South Coast Air Quality Management District or the requirements of any Air Quality Plan adopted by the City of Chino.
9.3. The operation or activity shall not emit odorous gases or other odorous matter in such quantities as to be dangerous, injurious, noxious, or otherwise objectionable to a level that is detectable with or without the aid of instruments at or beyond the project site boundary.
9.4. The operation shall not discharge, at any point, into any public or private street, public sewer, storm drain, private stream, body of water, or into the ground, any material which can contaminate any water supply, interfere with bacteriological processes in sewerage treatment, or otherwise cause the emission of dangerous or offensive elements, except in accordance with the standards approved by the California Department of Public Health, or any other federal, state or local government agency. 607
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT PLANNING DIVISION
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
FILE NO.: PL24-0097 (SCUP), -0098 (SA) & -0120 (SCUP) DATE: July 16, 2025
9.5. No operation or activity shall emit heat or cold that would cause a temperature increase or decrease on any adjacent parcel in excess of 100F (5.560C).
9.6. No operation or activity shall cause any impermissible source of electronic disturbance that adversely affects persons or the operation of any equipment on any other parcel that is not in conformance with the regulations of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
Impermissible interference for the purposes of this document shall mean any interference that violates the rules and regulations of the FCC and/or the Communications Act of 1934, as amended.
9.7. No operation or activity shall be permitted to cause a steady state, earthborne oscillation which is continuous and occurring more frequently than 100 times per minute beyond the project site. Ground vibration caused by moving vehicles, trains, aircraft, or temporary construction or demolition is exempted from this requirement.
9.8. Noise emanating from the project site, and which is received by adjacent land uses, shall not exceed the levels specified below, except that loudspeakers, bells, gongs, buzzers or other noise attention or attracting devices shall not exceed a maximum daytime dBA level of 60 and nighttime dBA of 40, measured anywhere beyond the boundaries of the property within which the noise is created.
Attachment:
Exhibit “A” – Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Maximum Time of
Exposure
Noise
Metric
Noise Level Not To Be Exceeded
7 a.m. to 10 p.m. 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.
30 Minutes/Hour L50 55 dBA 50 dBA
15 Minutes/Hour L25 60 dBA 55 dBA
5 Minutes/Hour L8.3 65 dBA 60 dBA
One Minute/Hour L1.7 70 dBA 65 dBA
Any Period of Time Lmax 75 Dba 70 dBA
608
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
CHINO GATEWAY TERMINAL PROJECT
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program 1
This Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program has been prepared for use in implementing mitigation for the:
Chino Gateway Terminal Project
Special Conditional Use Permits (PL24-0097 and PL24-0120), Site Approval (PL24-0098) The program has been prepared in compliance with State law and Addendum to The City of Chino General Plan Environmental Impact Report (State Clearinghouse No. 2008091064) prepared for the project by the City of Chino (City).
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requires adoption of a reporting or monitoring program for those measures placed on a project to mitigate or avoid significant effects on the environment (Public Resource Code Section 21081.6). The law states the reporting or monitoring program shall be designed to ensure compliance during project implementation.
The monitoring program contains the following elements:
1) The mitigation measures are recorded with the action and procedure necessary to ensure compliance. In some instances, one action may be used to verify implementation of several mitigation measures.
2) A procedure for compliance and verification has been outlined for each action necessary. This procedure designates who will take action, what action will be taken and when, and to whom and when compliance will be reported.
3) The program has been designed to be flexible. As monitoring progresses, changes to compliance procedures may be necessary based upon recommendations by those responsible for the program. As changes are made, new monitoring compliance procedures and records will be developed and incorporated into the program.
This Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program includes mitigation identified in The City of Chino General Plan Environmental Impact Report (State Clearinghouse No. 2008091064).
MITIGATION MONITORING AND RESPONSIBILITIES
As the Lead Agency, the City is responsible for ensuring full compliance with the mitigation measures adopted for the proposed project. The City shall monitor and report on all mitigation activities.
Mitigation measures shall be implemented at different stages of development throughout the project site. In this regard, the responsibilities for implementation have been assigned to the Applicant, City, Contractor, or a combination thereof. If, during the course of project implementation, any of the mitigation measures identified herein cannot be successfully implemented, the City shall be immediately informed, and the City shall then inform any affected responsible agencies. The City, in conjunction with any affected responsible agencies, shall then determine if modification to the project is required and/or whether alternative mitigation is appropriate.
REGULATORY COMPLIANCE MEASURES
Regulatory Compliance Measures are presented in instances where the proposed project would not create a significant impact but would be required to adhere to regulatory requirements in order to ensure impacts do not become significant. Regulatory Compliance Measures outline compliance with various federal, State, and/or local acts, laws, rules, regulations, municipal codes, policies, etc. 609
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
CHINO GATEWAY TERMINAL PROJECT
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program 2
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610
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
CHINO GATEWAY TERMINAL PROJECT
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program 3
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM CHECKLIST
Project Name: Chino Gateway Terminal Project Applicant: Gateway Terminal, LLC.
Date: June 13, 2025
Mitigation Measure No. / Implementing Action
Responsible
for
Monitoring Timing of Verification Method of Verification Verified
Date/
Initials
Sanctions for
NonCompliance
V.1. AESTHETICS
Since there are no significant impacts related to aesthetics as a result of the project, no mitigation measures are required.
V.2. AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES
Since there are no significant impacts related to agricultural resources as a result of the project, no mitigation measures are required.
V.3. AIR QUALITY AND GREENHOUS EGAS EMISSIONS
Since there are no significant impacts related to air quality and greenhouse gas emissions as a result of the project, no mitigation measures are required.
V.4. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Since there are no significant impacts related to biological resources as a result of the project, no mitigation measures are required.
V.5. CULTURAL RESOURCES
Since there are no significant impacts related to cultural resources as a result of the project, no mitigation measures are required.
V.6. GEOLOGY/SOILS and MINERAL RESOURCES
Since there are no significant impacts related to geology/soils and mineral resources as a result of the project, no mitigation measures are required.
V.7. HAZARDS & HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Since there are no significant impacts related to hazards and hazardous materials as a result of the project, no mitigation measures are required.
V.8. HYDROLOGY/WATER QUALITY
Since there are no significant impacts related to hydrology/water quality as a result of the project, no mitigation measures are required.
V.9. LAND USE and PLANNING
Since there are no significant impacts related to land use and planning as a result of the project, no mitigation measures are required. 611
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
CHINO GATEWAY TERMINAL PROJECT
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program 4
Project Name: Chino Gateway Terminal Project Applicant: Gateway Terminal, LLC.
Date: June 13, 2025
Mitigation Measure No. / Implementing Action
Responsible
for
Monitoring Timing of Verification Method of Verification Verified
Date/
Initials
Sanctions for
NonCompliance
V.10. NOISE
Since there are no significant impacts related to noise as a result of the project, no mitigation measures are required.
V.11. POPULATION/HOUSING
Since there are no significant impacts related to population/housing as a result of the project, no mitigation measures are required.
V.12. PARKS and PUBLIC SERVICES
Since there are no significant impacts related to parks and public services as a result of the project, no mitigation measures are required.
V.13. TRANSPORTATION/TRAFFIC
Since there are no significant impacts related to transportation/traffic as a result of the project, no mitigation measures are required.
V.14. UTILITY SYSTEMS and INFRASTRUCTURE
Since there are no significant impacts related to utility systems and infrastructure as a result of the project, no mitigation measures are required.
V.15. ENERGY
Since there are no significant impacts related to energy as a result of the project, no mitigation measures are required.
V.16. VEHICLE MILES TRAVELED
Since there are no significant impacts related to vehicle miles traveled as a result of the project, no mitigation measures are required.
V.17. TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES
Since there are no significant impacts related to tribal cultural resources as a result of the project, no mitigation measures are required.
V.18. WILDFIRE
Since there are no significant impacts related to wildfire as a result of the project, no mitigation measures are required. 612
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
CHINO GATEWAY TERMINAL PROJECT
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program 5
REGULATORY COMPLIANCE MEASURES
Project Name: Chino Gateway Terminal Project Applicant: Gateway Terminal, LLC.
Date: June 16, 2025
Regulatory Compliance Measure / Implementing
Action
Responsible
for Monitoring Timing of Verification Method of Verification Verified
Date/
Initials
Sanctions for
NonCompliance
V.4. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
REGUATORY COMPLIANCE MEASURE BIO-1: A
preconstruction survey for burrowing will be conducted
within 30 days prior to initial ground disturbance. If
burrowing owl is found on the site, the developer will
consult with California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and relocate the owls in accordance with CDFW
burrowing owl relocation protocols, including the
creation of artificial burrows.
City of Chino
Director of
Development
Services, or
designee.
Within 30 days prior to initial
ground disturbance and during
construction.
Evidence to the City a
qualified biologist is
retained, the required
pre-construction survey
has been completed, and,
if necessary, appropriate
consultation with the
CDFW and relocation of
owls in accordance with
CDFW burrowing owl
relocation protocols,
including the creation of
artificial burrows, has
occurred.
Withhold
grading permit
and/or issuance
of a stop work
order.
REGUATORY COMPLIANCE MEASURE BIO-2: If tree
removal is to be conducted during the nesting season
(February through August), a preconstruction nesting
bird survey shall be conducted by a qualified avian
biologist to ensure that active bird nests would not be disturbed or destroyed. The survey shall be completed no more than three days prior to initial clearing of
vegetation. The nesting bird survey shall include the
project site and adjacent areas where project activities have the potential to affect active nests, either directly or indirectly, due to construction activity, noise, human
activity, or ground disturbance.
If an active nest is identified, a qualified avian biologist shall establish an appropriately sized non-disturbance
City of Chino
Director of
Development
Services, or
designee.
No more than three days prior
to initial clearing of vegetation
if tree removal is to be
conducted during the nesting
season (February through
August).
Evidence to the City a
qualified avian biologist is
retained, the required
pre-construction survey
has been completed, and,
if necessary, appropriate
buffers have been
implemented and
enforced until the nest is
deemed inactive by the
qualified avian biologist.
Withhold
grading permit
and/or issuance
of a stop work
order.
613
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
CHINO GATEWAY TERMINAL PROJECT
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program 6
Project Name: Chino Gateway Terminal Project Applicant: Gateway Terminal, LLC.
Date: June 16, 2025
Regulatory Compliance Measure / Implementing
Action
Responsible
for Monitoring Timing of Verification Method of Verification Verified
Date/
Initials
Sanctions for
NonCompliance
buffer between 100 and 300 feet (500 feet for raptors)
around the nest, depending on bird species, behavior,
and level of construction activity, using flagging or
staking. Construction activities shall not occur within any non-disturbance buffer zones until the nest is deemed
inactive by the qualified avian biologist.
614
PUBLIC WORKS CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
Reviewed/Approved By: JP Date: 7/1/2025
Template Rev. 2/11/2025
PROJECT NO. PL24-0097 (SCUP)/-0098 (SA)/-0120(SCUP)
DATE: July 1, 2025 PC MEETING DATE: July 16, 2025
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Proposal for a new mixed use development of two buildings: a building with 158,548 sq ft of industrial warehouse uses and 3,520 sq ft of food and beverage use building. Existing structures, totaling 17,716 SF, are to be demolished. Four (4) lots will be merged into two (2) lots.
PROJECT LOCATION: 5849 Schaefer Avenue
APPLICANT: Gateway Terminal LLC PROJECT ENGINEER: Daniel Aguirre
PRIOR TO THE THREE MAJOR DEVELOPMENT EVENTS, THE APPLICANT SHALL SATISFY AND FULFILL ALL CONDITIONS OUTLINED BELOW. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH ANY CONDITIONS OF
APPROVAL SHALL BE DEEMED JUST CAUSE FOR REVOCATION OF PROJECT APPROVAL BY THE PLANNING COMMISSION. HOWEVER, THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR SHALL HAVE THE
AUTHORITY TO APPROVE MINOR DEVIATIONS IN THE CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL, AND ALL PLANS INCLUDING THE CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS.
1.0 PRIOR TO ISSUANCE OF BUILDING OR CONSTRUCTION PERMITS:
1.1. All required plans and studies shall be prepared by a Registered Professional Engineer and submitted to the Project Engineer for review and approval. All project plans must be approved by the City Engineer's office before a Building Permit will be issued. All maps, studies, calculation sheets, reports, etc. must be on and/or folded in an 11-inch by 8½-inch standard format.
1.2. Make the following dedications:
Street Name Distance Direction From C/L
Oaks Ave 33-ft total from CL to ROW West
(3-ft dedication)
1.2a Dedicate to the City of Chino, a corner cutoff dedication at the southwest corner of Schaefer Ave. and Oaks Ave., per the City’s Municipal Code.
1.2b Prepare and record necessary drainage easements to implement the project in accordance with drainage law.
1.3. Apply for and record a Lot Merger (LM) prior to the issuance of building permits. Record a Conforming Deed with the County of San Bernardino within six months of the recordation of the LM to conform the new legal description. Submit a copy of the recorded Conforming Deed to the Public Works Department.
1.4. Prepare and submit a drainage study, including supporting hydraulic and hydrological data to the project engineer for approval. The study shall confirm or recommend changes to the City’s adopted Master Drainage Plan by identifying off-site and on-site storm water runoff impact resulting from build-out of permitted General Plan land uses. In addition, the study shall identify the project’s contribution and shall provide locations and sizes of catchments and system connection points and all downstream drainage mitigation measures.
615
PROJECT NO. PL 24-0098 (SA) 2 July 1, 2025
1.5. Prepare and submit a final grading plan showing building footprints, pad elevations, finished grades, drainage routes, retaining walls, erosion control, slope easements and other pertinent information in accordance with Appendix J of the California Building Code, latest edition.
1.6. Provide a certificate, from a Registered Civil Engineer, certifying that the finished grading has been completed in accordance with the City approved grading plan.
1.7. Submit a soils/geology report in accordance with Appendix J of the California Building Code, latest edition to the project engineer for review and approval.
1.8. Design per City Standards and construct full public improvements for all impacted and interior streets/facilities in accordance with City Code, Standards and Specifications. Such public improvements shall include, but not be limited to, the following (1):
Street Names
Schaefer
Ave
Oaks
Ave
Curb & Gutter (Offset from Centerline) 36’ 22’
Sidewalk (Width) 5’ (2) 5’ (2)
Asphalt Concrete Pavement on Aggregate
Base (Width from Centerline)
Asphalt Concrete Overlay (3) X X
Street Lights (4) X X
Median Island and Landscaping
Parkway Landscaping (5) X X
Striping and Traffic Controls (6) X X
Traffic Signal Interconnect
Conduit System for CATV
Sewer (7) X
Storm Drain X
Domestic Water (8) X X
Recycled Water
Fire Hydrants as required by CVIFD (9) X X
Driveways approaches (10) X X
1. The public improvements listed above are required along the south side of Schaefer Avenue and the west side of Oaks Avenue as specified in our municipal code and per the City of Chino’s General Plan. All required street improvements should follow the new City standard for street trenching backfill and repair. Repair all damage to existing public improvements due to the proposed construction activities and as requested by the Public Works Inspector.
2. The sidewalk shall be extended along the project frontage on Schaefer Ave to the existing catch basin located near the northwesterly corner of the project site. ADA ramps shall be constructed at the southwest and southeast corners of Schaefer and Oaks to align with ADA standards.
3. Grind and overlay a minimum of 2 inches of the existing asphalt pavement along the project frontage in accordance with City of Chino standards. The limits of work shall extend to the street centerline along Oaks Avenue. The extent of asphalt pavement along Schaefer Avenue shall be determined based on the limits shown on the approved precise grading plan, including any areas impacted by new driveway installation, utility connections, or accessibility improvements.
4. Streetlights shall be installed per City of Chino standards and shall utilize an unmetered service pedestal.
5. The parkway maintenance shall be the responsibility of the property owner.
6. Extent of the signing & striping plan shall be dictated by the City Traffic Engineer.
7. Abandon unused sewer service(s) where applicable, per City standards. 616
PROJECT NO. PL 24-0098 (SA) 3 July 1, 2025
8. Provide new water meters and services and abandon unused water meters and services where applicable, per City standards.
9. All existing fire hydrants that require relocation will need to be upgraded to the latest model per City of Chino standards.
10. All proposed driveway approaches shall be constructed per City Std. No. 250 with 5-ft sidewalks.
Minimum width shall be 30-ft. Minimum radii per City and Chino Valley Independent Fire District (CVIFD) requirements.
1.9. All improvements shall comply with federal, state, and local accessibility regulations and standards. a. The review or approval of plans and specifications by the City does not permit the violation of any section of the federal law, state law, building code, or local ordinance. b. Where accessibility standards are contradictory, the provision that provides the most accessible (restrictive) condition shall apply.
c. Where the project’s conditions of approval conflict with accessibility regulations and standards, the prevailing provision shall be determined by City’s Accessibility Coordinator and City Engineer.
Pedestrian facilities (privately or publicly owned) that are open to the public shall comply with the City's Policy on Accessible Pedestrian Facilities, accessibility standards in the CBC, and ADA regulations at Part 36 of Title 28, which include the 2010 (ADA) Standards.
Accessibility of existing and proposed building improvements will be evaluated by the City’s building department. Those comments and requests are in addition to those provided herein.
1.10. Design and install a monitoring manhole (per City Standard No. 530) on each domestic sewer lateral connection from any industrial building into the City's main sewer or into a private sewer main that is tributary to the City's main sewer. In addition, design and install a sampling Wye on a stubbedout sewer lateral connection into the main sewer for each industrial building in this development.
1.11. Execute a Public Improvement Agreement and submit security in an amount acceptable to the City Engineer to guarantee construction of the public improvements listed in 1.8. All security must be accessible to the City at any time and in a form acceptable to the City Engineer, pursuant to Government Code, Section 66499.
1.12. Complete and file the petition for annexation of your project property to the City's Landscape and Street Lighting Maintenance District MD 2002-01.
1.13. Annex into the current services special tax community facilities district of the City (the “City Services CFD”) through the submission of an application to the City’s Finance Department along with the payment of $11,000.00 plus the per parcel fee, for the City’s outside costs of the annexation process, or (II) form a new City community facilities district with a services special tax component commensurate with the City Services CFD, or (III) provide a lump sum payment to the City which, based on current interest rate conditions, is projected to finance in perpetuity the same services projected to be provided through annexation into the City Services CFD. Upon completion of the annexation, an annual special tax will be assessed on the property tax bill to each Assessor Parcel at an established rate set by the City Services CFD document entitled “Rate and Method of Apportionment” available for review in the CFD Annual Report located at:
https://www.cityofchino.org/222/Community-Facilities-District-Mello-Roos This annual tax is used to fund Police, Fire and other municipal services provided to residents and businesses in the general City.
617
PROJECT NO. PL 24-0098 (SA) 4 July 1, 2025
1.14. Obtain design and plan approval from appropriate utility companies for undergrounding all utility lines adjoining and interior to the project, including power lines of 34.5kV or less in accordance with City Code, Chapter 13.32.
1.15. Comply with all applicable requirements of the City Code.
1.16. The project must ensure that all pedestrian facilities (private or publicly owned) that are open to the public shall comply with accessibility standards in the City’s Policy on Accessible Pedestrian Facilities, the current edition of the CBC in effect at the time of building permit issuance or, if no permit, the date construction commences, and Part 36 of Title 28 of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations, which include the 2010 ADA Standards. This includes the following structures and facilities:
a. Sidewalks and walks (public right of way sidewalk, walks within the development); b. Curb ramps (should be directional with one curb ramp provided for each pedestrian crossing and shall comply with the City’ Policy on Accessible Pedestrian Facilities); c. Pedestrian crossings at driveways; and
d. Crosswalks (marked, unmarked, signalized)
1.17. Existing pedestrian facilities on the frontage of the development, open to the public within the development, shall be evaluated for accessibility. The street frontage includes all adjacent pedestrian facilities, created by, extended from, or connected to any required or provided sidewalks improvements. The frontage may include sidewalks, curb ramps, connecting crosswalks (marked and unmarked), and other associated pedestrian facilities (on-street parking space, etc.). a. The following existing improvements shall be made compliant with accessibility regulations as a part of this project:
i. sidewalks/walks
ii. curb ramps near the southwest and southeast corners of Schaefer Ave and Oaks Ave iii. crosswalk pavement and associated pedestrian facilities (pedestrian push buttons, maneuvering space, clear space)
iv. driveway approaches crossings
v. parking space
b. Improvements that are non-compliant with the accessibility standards in effect at the time of construction or alteration, shall be brought up to current accessibility standards. This work shall be incorporated into the scope of this project and shall be completed prior to acceptance by the City.
c. Improvements that are compliant with the accessibility standards in effect at the time of construction, shall be documented on a separate construction plan with detailed specifications (running and cross slopes of all pedestrian walking surfaces, locations, dimensions and slopes of maneuvering spaces and landings, width of sidewalk, clear width and vertical clearance from obstructions). The accessibility of existing improvements will be verified by City inspection staff upon completion of the project. Discrepancies between documented existing conditions and existing conditions as measured by City staff shall be remediated and brought up to accessibility standards as part of the project.
1.18. Pay all applicable fees pursuant to City Code including, but not limited to, the Development Impact Fees (DIF) and Sewage Facilities Development Fee (SFDF). The actual amount of fees due to the City will be based on the fee schedule in place on the date that the fees are due, or the date that they are paid, whichever occurs last. The fee amount stated in this notice is subject to change based on (1) annual adjustments for inflation, pursuant to Chino Municipal Code Section 3.40.100 618
PROJECT NO. PL 24-0098 (SA) 5 July 1, 2025
or 3.45.100, (2) revisions to the Chino Municipal Code, and (3) updates to the fee studies and nexus reports adopted by the City.
Developer is solely responsible for remaining informed about changes in the fee amounts. City shall have no obligation to inform Developer of changes in the fee amounts unless Developer requests notice of such changes, pursuant to Government Code Section 66019(b) and Chino Municipal Code Section 3.40.080(B) or 3.45.080(B).
1.19. All projects developing one (1) acre or more of total land area, or which are part of a larger phased development that will disturb one acre of land, are required to obtain coverage under the State Water Resources Control Board’s (SWRCB) General Permit for storm water discharges associated with construction activity. Proof of filing a Notice of Intent (NOI) with the SWRCB for coverage under this permit is required. A copy of the Waste Discharger’s Identification Number (WDID), issued by the SWRCB, must be submitted to the Project Engineer prior to issuance of grading permits. More detailed information regarding this General Permit, applicable fee information and the necessary forms to complete the NOI are available by calling (916) 341-5537 or on the SWRCB web site at:
http://www.swrcb.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/stormwater/constpermits.shtml.
1.20. Pursuant to Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board Order Number R8-2010-0036, NPDES Permit No. CAS618036, prepare a project-specific Water Quality Management Plan (WQMP) and submit to the project engineer for review and approval. To address NPDES Permit requirements to the maximum extent practicable, the project shall be designed to specify preferential use of Low Impact Development Best Management Practices that reduce pollutants and runoff volume through structural measures (e.g., infiltration, harvesting, and bio-treatment) and non-structural measures (e.g., preserving natural areas, clustering development, and reducing impervious areas). The WQMP shall conform to the requirements of the San Bernardino County Stormwater Program, 2013 WQMP Technical Guidance Document and include the Trash Order Implementation Plan requirements.
1.21. Any future maintenance and repair of sewer laterals, except for the portion of lateral located within the public right-of-way or public easement, and domestic water or fire service laterals to the project site shall be the sole responsibility of the applicant/property owner in accordance with City Code, Chapter 13.04.175 and 13.12.150.
1.22. City staff shall determine the type of water (potable or recycled) to be used for grading operations, dust control activities, and common area/public landscape irrigation at the time of permit issuance.
1.23. All public street corners shall have a minimum curb radii per City Code, Chapter 19.06 and City Standards and Specifications.
1.24. Provide adequate sight distance per City Standard No. 865 for each project driveway and at all intersections. Landscaping type and height shall be maintained to ensure sight distance requirements are perpetuated.
1.25. Comply with all requirements of the Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) dated May 21, 2025 including participation in fair share contributions (if applicable) and construction of required improvements.
1.26. If the design of the proposed curb ramps requires modifications to the existing traffic signal at the intersection of Schaefer Avenue and Oaks Avenue, the developer shall be responsible for implementing those modifications. During construction, the developer shall be responsible for any damages attributed to the construction of related public improvements and shall coordinate with the Transportation Division and the City’s designated traffic signal maintenance company for technical support of the traffic signal during construction until such time as the improvements are accepted by the City to the satisfaction of the City Engineer.
1.27. Submit to the City electronic files, in Adobe Acrobat PDF format, of all submittals, including reports, studies, improvement plans and City redlines of previous submittals. Include AutoCAD and Esri GIS shape files as an e-transmitted zip file of all approved improvement plans. 619
PROJECT NO. PL 24-0098 (SA) 6 July 1, 2025
1.28. The Developer may coordinate with the City to identify any eligible development impact fee (DIF) credits in accordance with the Chino Municipal Code. If any credits are identified, the Developer shall enter into a mutually agreed-upon DIF credit agreement with the City, which shall be subject to City Council approval.
2.0 PRIOR TO REQUEST FOR AND RELEASE OF OCCUPANCY PERMITS/ACCEPTANCE OF PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS:
2.1. Construct and secure Public Works Department approval of all public facilities enumerated under Section 1.0 above (per Resolution No. 88-23).
2.2. Underground all utility lines adjoining and interior to the project, including power lines of 34.5kV or less in accordance with City Code, Chapter 13.32
2.3. Distribute for signature of all buyers, the information and disclosure notice announcing that the development will be annexed to the City's Landscape and Street Lighting Maintenance Assessment District before transfer of property title and completion and acceptance of all public improvements.
2.4. The applicant’s Civil Engineer shall field verify that all BMPs are designed, constructed, and functional in accordance with the approved WQMP. BMPs shall also be inspected by Public Works Environmental staff. Coordinate inspection with staff and submit a completed City of Chino BMP field verification form for review and approval.
2.5. Provide and record a reciprocal use and maintenance agreement to assure common ingress and egress and joint maintenance of all common access, parking areas and drives.
2.6. Pay all remaining applicable fees pursuant to City Code.
2.7. Rehabilitate all street pavement impacted by utility trench repairs as directed by City staff. Install signing and striping per approved plans.
2.8. Submit to the City, electronic files of Tract/Parcel Map and “as-built” improvement plans in AUTOCAD, Esri GIS shape and Adobe Acrobat PDF formats. AUTOCAD files shall be submitted as an etransmitted zip file of the CAD drawings with all base files attached. Scanned resolution of PDF shall be a minimum of 360 dpi.
3.0 PRIOR TO FINAL ACCEPTANCE/PROJECT CLOSEOUT:
3.1 Complete all Conditions of Approval listed under Sections 1-3 above.
3.2 Submit to the City, electronic files of “as-built” improvement plans in AUTOCAD, Esri GIS shape and Adobe Acrobat PDF formats. AUTOCAD files shall be submitted as an etransmitted zip file of the CAD drawings with all base files attached. Scanned resolution of PDF shall be a minimum of 360 dpi.
Attachment
620
Rev 6/6/23
CITY OF CHINO
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
DEVELOPMENT ENGINEERING DIVISION
PROJECT NO. PL24-0097(SCUP)/-0098 (SA)/-0120 (SCUP)
PROJECT ENGINEER: Daniel Aguirre
DATE: 7/1/2025
A COPY OF THIS CHECK LIST MUST BE PROVIDED ALONG WITH A COMPLETED PLAN CHECK REVIEW APPLICATION TO THE
ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN WHEN MAKING AN APPOINTMENT FOR FIRST PLAN CHECK SUBMITTAL Copy of Development Engineering Division Conditions of Approval Plan Check Fee Calculation Form
Maps (Subdivision Only)
Preliminary Title Report (no older than six months) (Subdivision Only) Closure Calculations (Subdivision Only)
Referenced Maps (Subdivision Only)
Preliminary Soils Report (no older than sixty days)
Lot line adjustment certificate
Lot merger
Right-of-way dedication
Rough Grading Plans
Precise Grading Plans
Storm Drain Plans
Hydrology and Hydraulic Calculations with Backup Data (Signed and Sealed by a Registered Civil Engineer)
Engineering Cost Estimate (On City Forms) with Engineer’s Wet Signature and Stamp Street Improvements Plans
Cross-Sections (if street plans are required) at 50’ intervals and extended a minimum of 100’ beyond limits of improvements
Sewer Plans (Delta revisions for proposed connections)
Domestic Water Plans (Delta revisions for proposed connections) Recycled Water Plans
Street Light Plans
Voltage Drop Calculations (Signed and Sealed by a Registered Engineer) Signing and Striping Plans
Traffic Signal Interconnect Plans
Traffic Signal Plans (dependent on curb ramp design)
Water Quality Management Plan
Construction Management Plan
621
Special Districts Leadership Foundation - District of Distinction Since 2008 June 25, 2025
It is a recommendation of the Fire District that the developer of every new construction project facilitate a preconstruction meeting. The meeting is to be scheduled with the Fire District Inspector for said project.
The following are the conditions of the above referenced permit/project. All conditions shall be adhered to, failure to comply with said conditions may result in the revocation of said permit and/or punitive fines as outlined in the Fire District fee schedule.
We look forward to a cooperative working relationship throughout the project. Should you have any questions regarding the project, including the conditions as set forth herein, please feel free to contact our office at (909) 902-5280.
1.0 THE ITEMS BELOW ARE CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL AND ARE TO BE COMPLETED PRIOR TO RECORDATION:
1.1 Fire access roads shall be designed and plans submitted to the Fire District for approval.
Fire access roads shall be constructed of an all-weather hard surface, such as, asphalt or concrete, and be a minimum unobstructed width of 26 feet and minimum clear height of 13’6”. The road grade shall not exceed twelve percent (12%) maximum. An approved turn around shall be provided at the end of each roadway in excess of 150 feet in length. Aerial access shall be provided for any buildings 30’ ft. and higher per 2019 CFC. Appendix D. A 26’ ft. wide access road shall be a minimum of 15’ ft. to the building and a maximum of 30’ ft. from the building. Access roads shall comply with Fire District Standard No. 111.
Chino Valley Fire District
14011 City Center Drive
Chino Hills, CA 91709
(909) 902-5260 Administration
(909) 902-5250 Fax
Chinovalleyfire.org
2024-00002066
Fire Protection Requirements
GATEWAY TERMINAL LLC
13925 CITY CENTER DR STE 200
CHINO HILLS, CA - California 91709
Project Name: GATEWAY TERMINAL, PL24-
0097(SCUP), PL24-0098 (SA), PL24-0120
Project Address: 5835 & 5885 Schaefer Ave.
Chino, CA. 91710
Board of Directors
Sarah-Ramos Evinger
President
Mike Kreeger
Vice President
Tom Haughey
Harvey Luth
Andrew Romaine
Fire Chief
Dave Williams
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Special Districts Leadership Foundation - District of Distinction Since 2008
1.2 The development and each phase shall have two (2) points of vehicular access during construction. Fire District Standard No. 111 shall be complied with.
1.3 Water systems shall be designed to meet the required fire flow of this development and be approved by the Community Risk Reduction Division. Buildings in excess of 100,000 square feet shall have a minimum of two (2) connections to a public main. The developer shall furnish the Community Risk Reduction Division with three (3) copies of the water system working plans done by the installing contractor for approval, along with the Fire Flow Availability Form completed by the water purveyor prior to recordation. The required fire flow shall be determined by using the California Fire Code, current adopted edition. For all private systems, the water systems shall comply with Fire District Standard Nos. 101, 102, and 103. In areas without water-serving utilities, fire protection water systems shall be based on NFPA Pamphlet 1231. For water connections and work conducted in the public right of way, please refer to separate plans reviewed and approved by the water purveyor.
1.4 Fire hydrants shall be six-inch (6") diameter with a minimum one four-inch (4") and one two and one-half inch (2-1/2") connections. All fire hydrants shall be spaced a maximum of three hundred feet (300') apart. Private water systems shall comply with Fire District Standard Nos. 101, 102, and 114. All hydrants shall be installed with pavement markers to identify their locations.
1.5 Access drives which cross property lines shall be provided with CC & R's, access easements or reciprocating agreements and shall be recorded on the titles of affected properties. Copies of the recorded documents shall be provided at the time of Fire District plan review.
1.6 Underground fire mains which cross property lines shall be provided with CC & R's, easements, or reciprocating agreements addressing the use and maintenance of the mains and hydrants and shall be recorded on the titles of affected properties. Copies of the recorded documents shall be provided at the time of Fire District plan review.
2.0 THE ITEMS BELOW ARE CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL AND ARE TO BE COMPLETED PRIOR TO ISSUANCE OF BUILDING PERMIT:
2.1 Fire access roads shall be constructed and approved by the Community Risk Reduction Division prior to combustibles being brought onto the site.
2.2 Approved street signs shall be installed prior to issuance of building permits, as well as a job site address.
2.3 Fire Protection water systems shall be tested, operational, and approved by the Community Risk Reduction Division prior to combustible materials being brought to the site.
2.4 All flammable vegetation shall be removed from each building site for a minimum distance of thirty feet (30') from any flammable building material including all structures. 623
Special Districts Leadership Foundation - District of Distinction Since 2008
2.5 A detailed site plan of the development is required to be submitted in electronic (pdf.) format. The plan must show and be limited to: locations of property lines, buildings, and equipment and hazards for emergency response purposes. Please refer to Fire District Standard No. 143. Additional or revised files may be required during construction and/or prior to final signoff.
2.6 The Developer shall submit, as an electronic file, a drawing of the new streets in pdf format to the Fire District with the building construction plans. Format must contain and be restricted to the following layers: A. Right of way; B. Parcel Lines; C. Street Names; D. Address numbers; E. Fire Hydrants. Additional or revised files may be required during construction and/or prior to final signoff.
3.0 THE ITEMS BELOW ARE CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL AND ARE TO BE COMPLETED PRIOR TO OCCUPANCY:
3.1 An automatic protection fire sprinkler system is required for all buildings 5,000 sq. ft or greater. and/or when used for allowable area increase, if applicable. This system shall comply with NFPA Standard No. 13 and Fire District Standard No. 110. An electronic/PDF set of detailed plans along with hydraulic calculations and material specifications shall be submitted to the Community Risk Reduction Division. The system shall be installed, tested and approved prior to system final. Fire sprinkler systems shall be installed by a licensed C-16 contractor and the contractor is required to submit a report to The Compliance Engine (TCE).
3.2 An automatic fire alarm system is required. An electronic/PDF set of detailed plans shall be submitted showing the design, system components, signaling devices, fire alarm power supply, control panel and auxiliary devices and functions of the alarm system. Please refer to Fire District Standard No. 133 and current adopted editions of the California Building Code, as well as NFPA Standard 72. The contractor is required to submit a report to The Compliance Engine (TCE).
3.3 Approved in-building, two-way emergency responder communication coverage for emergency responders shall be provided in all new buildings, if ERRC evaluation determines the need for installation of system. In-building, two-way emergency responder communication coverage within the building shall be based on the existing coverage levels of the public safety communication systems utilized by the jurisdiction, measured at the exterior of the building. System shall comply with current adopted edition of the California Fire Code, NFPA 70, 72 & 1221 and the contractor is required to submit a report to The Compliance Engine (TCE).
3.4 An automatic fixed fire extinguishing system may be required. An electronic/PDF set of detailed plans shall be submitted to the Community Risk Reduction Division for approval.
System shall comply with current adopted edition of the California Fire Code, NFPA Standard 17-A, and UL 300. Please refer to Fire District Standard No. 112. The contractor is required to submit a report to The Compliance Engine (TCE).
3.5 Insulated liquid carbon dioxide systems with more than 100 pounds (45.4 kg) of carbon dioxide used in beverage dispensing applications shall comply with CFC, Section 5307.3.1., and shall be provided with mechanical ventilation or a gas detection system. The contractor is required to submit a report to The Compliance Engine (TCE). 624
Special Districts Leadership Foundation - District of Distinction Since 2008
3.6 A maximum occupant load sign shall be posted in a conspicuous location neat the main entrance/exit of the room, if occupant load is greater than 49 people. Such sign shall be legible.
3.7 Hand-held portable fire extinguishers are required to be installed. The location, type and cabinet design shall be approved by the Community Risk Reduction Division.
3.8 Exits, doors, signs and approved path marking shall be installed in accordance with the current adopted edition of the California Building Code, Section 1007
3.9 "No Parking - Fire Lane" signs shall be installed in interior access drives at locations designated by the Community Risk Reduction Division. Curbs shall be painted red at locations designated by the Community Risk Reduction Division. Please refer to Fire District Standard No. 121.
3.10 An approved recessed Fire Department "KNOX" brand key box is required. The key box shall be located at or near the main entrance(s), and shall be provided with a tamper switch and shall be monitored by an approved central station monitoring service. Please refer to Fire District Standard No. 117.
3.11 An approved Knox key switch and/or Knox lock is required on each automatic electric or manual gate that crosses an EVA. All automatic gates shall be provided with a manual override. Fire District Standard No. 116 & 117 shall be complied with.
3.12 Commercial, industrial, and multi-family building addresses shall be posted with a minimum eight inch (8") numbers, visible from the street and during the hours of darkness they shall be internally or externally electrically illuminated. Posted numbers shall contrast with the background used and be legible from the street.
Where building set back exceeds 100 feet from the roadway, additional non-illuminated six inch (6") numbers shall be displayed at the property access entrance. These numbers shall also contrast with the background used. Fire District Standard No. 122 must be complied with.
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Special Districts Leadership Foundation - District of Distinction Since 2008
3.13 An electronic/PDF set of plans shall be submitted separately for each of the following listed items to the Fire District for review, approval and permit prior to any installation or work being done. Approved plans must be maintained at the worksite during construction. Fees are due at the time of submittal.
a) Building Construction, includes tenant improvement work b) Private (onsite) Underground Fire Protection Water Systems, if applicable c) Fire Sprinkler Systems, designed by C16 contractor or registered engineer d) Fire Alarm Systems or Sprinkler Monitoring Systems designed by a C7, C10 contractor or registered engineer.
e) Knox box and/or security gate locations.
f) Gas detection systems
g) Emergency Responder Radio Coverage Systems
Applicable Standards:
101, 102, 103, 110, 111, 114, 117, 121, 122, 133, 141, 143 CVFD Standards available online at http://www.chinovalleyfire.org 626
MEMORANDUM
CITY OF CHINO
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT
CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: OCTOBER 21, 2025
TO: LINDA REICH, CITY MANAGER
FROM: WARREN MORELION, AICP, DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
SUBJECT
..titl e
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) FY 2022-23 Action Plan – Substantial Amendment.
..end
RECOMMENDATION
..recommendation
1) Conduct a Public Hearing; 2) adopt Resolution 2025-067, approving the substantial amendment to the City of Chino's FY 2022-23 Annual Action Plan for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program; 3) transfer $31,500 in Fund 350 allocated funds from project G6231 to project SN240; 4) authorize the City Manager to execute all required documents pertaining to the amendment; and 5) approve submission of the amendment to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). ..body
FISCAL IMPACT
Requires the transfer of $31,500 from the Economic Development Façade Improvements Project (G6231) to the Alley Improvement Project (SN240) with an adjustment to revenue in an equal amount.
CITY OF CHINO MISSION / VISION / VALUES / STRATEGIC ISSUES The recommendation detailed above furthers the City’s values and strategic issues that serve as key pillars on which identified priorities, goals, and action plans are built, by fostering:
Positive City Image
Responsible Long-Range Planning
Revenue: Expenditure: CDBG FUND 350
Transfer In: Transfer Out:
627
CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: OCTOBER 21, 2025
TITLE: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FY 2022-23 ACTION PLAN - SUBSTANTIAL AMENDMENT.
PAGE: 2
BACKGROUND
Amendments to a CDBG Annual Action Plan are required whenever proposed changes to current project/program allocations are equal to or greater than 20% of the project funds, or if a project will be newly added or cancelled. Amendments that meet or exceed this standard are considered “Substantial Amendments.” In compliance with the City’s Citizen Participation Plan under regulation 24 CFR 91.105, Substantial Amendments require that a public hearing be conducted to solicit comment on the proposed amendment.
Staff is proposing that the City of Chino’s FY 2022-23 CDBG Annual Action Plan be amended to reallocate $31,500 in funding from the Economic Development Façade Improvements Project (G6231) to the Alley Improvement Project (SN240). This amendment, which qualifies as a “Substantial Amendment” under CDBG Program regulations, will provide the following benefits:
1) ensure fund utilization during the current fiscal year; 2) aid in meeting HUD’s timeliness compliance requirements; and 3) meet immediate funding needs for the completion of the Alley Improvement Project (SN240).
On September 20, 2025, a public notice was published in the Chino Champion, advising the public of 1) the availability of the proposed amendment for review; 2) the opportunity to submit comments or concerns regarding the amendment; and 3) a public hearing to consider the proposed amendment and receive public comment at the October 21, 2025, City Council meeting. Tonight’s public hearing fulfills HUD’s public hearing requirements.
Following final adoption, the Substantial Amendment as shown in Exhibit 1-CDBG 2022-23 Action Plan-Substantial Amendment to the FY 2022-23 CDBG Annual Action Plan, will be submitted to HUD for review and approval.
ISSUES/ANALYSIS
The FY 2025-26 CDBG Annual Action Plan outlines the City of Chino’s planned use of CDBG funds, including unspent CDBG funds carried over from prior years. The proposed changes outlined in the amendment are as follows:
Alley Improvement Project (SN240) Amended Budget
Original Budget - $518,124.65 (FY 2023-2024 funds)
Additional Allocation - $31,500.00 (FY 2022-23 funds)
$549,624.65
Economic Development Façade Improvement Program (G6231) Amended Budget Original Budget - $31,500 (FY 2022-23 funds)
Revised Budget - $0
$0
It is recommended that the City Council conduct a Public Hearing, adopt Resolution 2025-067, approving the substantial amendment to the City of Chino's FY 2022-23 Annual Action Plan for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, transfer $31,500 in Fund 350 allocated funds from project G6231 to project SN240, authorize the City Manager to execute all required documents pertaining to the amendment, and approve submission of the amendment to HUD.
Attachments: Exhibit 1 – CDBG 2022-23 Action Plan-Substantial Amendment 628
CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: OCTOBER 21, 2025
TITLE: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FY 2022-23 ACTION PLAN - SUBSTANTIAL AMENDMENT.
PAGE: 3
Resolution No. 2025-067
629
Exhibit 1:
CDBG 2022-2023 Action Plan-Substantial Amendment
The proposed amendment will reallocate funding within the City’s CDBG program to enable sufficient funding for the completion of the project as described below.
Alley Improvement Project SN240:
The proposed project expands the limits of work for SN240 - CDBG FY25-26 Alley Rehabilitation to fully capture the east-west alley between D Street and Chino Avenue (from Monte Vista Avenue to 5th Street).
This area is primarily residential and entirely within the City’s CDBG Low- and Moderate-Income area.
The scope of work includes pavement rehabilitation of the asphalt alley, installation of a concrete ribbon gutter to facilitate drainage, and improved ADA access at alley driveway-approaches. This project will enhance pedestrian access and remove barriers, allowing increased access to the western-adjacent Monte Vista Park.
The program performance categories for this project promote Availability/Accessibility and Livable or Viable Communities. The project targets the older part of the community, Census Tract 605, block group 1. Improvement of both the motorist and pedestrian travel ways will enhance the overall appearance of the neighborhood and will directly benefit 12 households adjacent to the alleyway.
The City’s Public Works Department will administer and monitor the project design and construction.
The estimated cost of design and construction to complete the project scope is $588,000.
Proposed Project Budget Increase over 25% Amended Allocation FY 2023-24 Alley Improvement Project SN240 Original Budget Allocation $219,256.00 Action Plan Reallocation of Funds
FY 2024-25 Community Garden Pumpkin Patch Project- (FY 2024-2025 subamendment)$298,868.65 FY 2023-24 Alley Improvement Project SN240 Total Budget Allocation $518,124.65 Proposed Action Plan Reallocation of Funds
FY 2022-23 Economic Development Façade Improvement Program- G6231 (cancel and reallocate)
$31,500
FY 2025-26 Alley Improvement Project SN240 New Total Budget Allocation $549,624.65 630
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-067
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHINO APPROVING
A SUBSTANTIAL AMENDMENT TO THE CITY OF CHINO COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) ANNUAL ACTION PLAN FOR FISCAL YEAR (FY) 2022-2023.
WHEREAS, the City of Chino is proposing a Substantial Amendment to the City of Chino’s CDBG Annual Action Plan 2022-23 and adopted FY 2025-26 CDBG program budget; and WHEREAS, the proposed amendment will transfer $31,500 in CDBG program funds as outlined in the table below:
Proposed Project Budget Increase Amended Budget Allocation FY 2023-24 Alley Improvement Project SN240 Original
Budget Allocation
FY 2024-2025 Sub-Amendment Alley Improvement
Project SN240 (additional funds allocated in PY 24-25
due to cancelled project)
$219,256.00
$298,868.65
Proposed Action Plan Reallocation of Funds
FY 2022-23 Façade Improvement Program G6231 -
(cancel and reallocate)
$31,500.00
FY 2025-26 Alley Improvement Project SN240 Total
Budget Allocation
$549,624.65
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHINO DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. That the City Council approves the proposed amendment to the City’s FY 2025- 26 CDBG Program budget described above by adopting this Resolution.
Section 2. That a certified copy of this resolution shall be filed in the offices of the City Manager, City Attorney, City Treasurer, and City Clerk.
Section 3. That the Mayor shall sign, and the City Clerk shall attest to the adoption of this resolution.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED THIS 21ST DAY OF OCTOBER 2025.
EUNICE M. ULLOA, MAYOR
ATTEST:
NATALIE GONZAGA, CITY CLERK
631
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-067