Hesperia City Council
July 15, 2025

HEALTH AND SAFETY
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affected neighborhoods in a timely manner in
languages and formats accessible to all residents.

Policy SF-5.4
Maintain a FEMA-certified and adopted Local
Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP). Implement and
regularly update the LHMP through a partnership
consisting of representatives from all City
departments, the San Bernardino County Fire
Protection District and Sheriff’s Department, local
quasi-governmental agencies, private businesses,
citizens, and other community partners involved in
emergency relief and/or community-wide services.

Policy SF-5.5
Upon update and certification by the Federal
Emergency Management Agency, incorporate the
Hesperia Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP)
into this Health and Safety Element by reference,
as permitted by California Government Code
Section 65302.6.

Policy SF-5.6
Continue to support the development of local
preparedness plans and multi-jurisdictional
cooperation and communication for emergency
situations consistent with regional, state (SIMS),
and federal standards, guidelines, and/or
recommendations (NIMS).

Policy SF-5.7
Maintain mutual aid agreements with neighboring
cities and the San Bernardino County Operational
Area. Cooperate with other public agencies to
ensure adequate medical and other emergency
services, including assessing and projecting future
emergency service needs.

Policy SF-5.8
Ensure to the fullest possible extent that, in the
event of a major disaster, including extreme
weather events, critical, dependent care, and high-
occupancy facilities remain functional.

Policy SF-5.9
To the greatest extent possible, locate new
essential public and critical facilities, such as
police stations, schools, and community centers,
outside of mapped hazard zones. If essential

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facilities must be located in these zones, site and
design them to minimize the risk of damage and
maintain their operational capacity during and
after a hazard. Require all essential and critical
facilities in an identified hazard zone (100-
year/500-year flood zone, dam inundation zone,
fire hazard severity zone, landslide susceptibility
zone, or others), to develop disaster response and
evacuation plans that address the actions that will
be taken in the event of an emergency.

Policy SF-5.10
Coordinate with local and regional agencies to
establish resilience centers to support residents, in
accordance with State guidance. Resilience centers
consist of well-used, existing, community-serving
facilities that are equipped to provide residents and
workers with shelter, water, restrooms, showers,
and electricity during poor air quality events,
extreme heat events, or disasters. Ensure that
resilience centers are not in areas at risk from
hazards and equitably located to the extent
possible, are equipped with renewable energy
generation and backup power supplies, and
accessible by the City's most vulnerable residents.

Work with transit, dial-a-ride, and paratransit
services to provide transit services to and from
resilience centers for seniors and people with
disabilities in the community.

Policy SF-5.11
Coordinate with the Victor Valley Transit
Authority and community service organizations to
assist with evacuation efforts for those with
limited English proficiency, who lack access to a
vehicle, and/or who have limited mobility.

Policy SF-5.12
Offer educational programs to promote measures
that residents and businesses should take prior to,
during, and after an emergency. Promote public
awareness of City emergency response plans,
resources, risk reduction, and preparation of
emergency kits. Provide emergency preparedness

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educational programs in languages and formats
accessible to all Hesperia residents and businesses.

Policy SF-5.13
In cooperation with the San Bernardino County
Fire Protection District, develop and hold regular
Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
training exercises to residents and members of the
business community to empower individuals and
neighborhoods and increase disaster awareness
and emergency response capability.

Policy SF-5.14
Support and participate in San Bernardino County
Transportation Authority’s regional evacuation
study to identify evacuation route capacity, safety,
and viability and evacuation locations under a
range of hazard scenarios.

CLIMATE CHANGE RESILIENCE
Changes to the global climate system are expected to affect future occurrences of natural hazards in and around Hesperia. Many hazards are projected to become more frequent and intense in coming years and decades, and in some cases, these trends have already begun. Key climate change considerations that affect Hesperia include increasing temperatures and changes in precipitation. Overall, precipitation levels are expected to increase slightly, with more years of extreme precipitation events and droughts that last longer and are more intense. According to California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, Hesperia can expect to experience various climate-related hazard events.

Climate change is expected to lead to an increase in wildfires across San Bernardino County due to hotter and drier conditions. M ore frequent and intense wildfires may also create poor air quality for Hesperia. As the climate changes, warmer temperatures will create more pollutants, such as ozone, wildfire smoke, dust, and pollen, contributing to poor air quality.

Warmer temperatures are projected to cause an increase in extreme heat events. The number of extreme heat days, defined in Hesperia as a day when the high temperature is at least 98°F, is expected to rise from a historical annual average of 5 days to 36 days by the middle of the century (2035 to 2064), and an average of 59 days by the end of the century (2070 to 2099).

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Both droughts and floods are expected to become more frequent because climate change is expected to cause rainfall in fewer, more intense storms.

Although Hesperia is likely to experience minimal change in overall annual rainfall levels from climate change, the region is also expected to see an increase in the number of extreme rainfall events. Also, climate change can increase infection rates from various diseases because many of the animals that carry diseases are more active during warmer weather. W hen temperatures are warmer earlier in the spring and later in the winter, animals are active for longer, increasing the time that diseases can be transmitted.

Resilient IE
The Resilient IE project is a joint effort between the Western Riverside Council of Governments and San Bernardino County Transportation Authority to prepare the western Riverside County‐San Bernardino County region for the increasing climate‐related hazards . Resilient IE supports regional and local efforts to prepare for and mitigate risks on the region's transportation infrastructure associated with climate adaptation.

The Resilient IE Toolkit is a collection of resources that provide data on the risk from climate‐related hazards and tools and resources for developing and implementing climate adaptation and resilience strategies to reduce these risks. The toolkit specifically addresses the anticipated increasing risks and impacts of climate‐related hazards on the inland areas of southern California. The primary function of this toolkit is to facilitate greater resilience and adaptive capacity in the face of climate‐related impacts in the western Riverside County‐San Bernardino County region. It is available online at: https://wrcog.us/285/Resilient-IE.

Air Quality
Air quality is determined by the composition of gases and particles in the atmosphere, and it is a critical aspect of environmental health. Air pollution comes from mobile sources (e.g., cars, trucks, airplanes) and stationary sources (e.g., agricultural and industrial uses). The Mojave Air Quality Management District has the responsibility to create strategies and monitor the targets set by State and federal standards for San Bernardino County’s High Desert.

The i ncreasing frequency of fire statewide creates more frequent degradation of air quality, leading to respiratory health effects. Wildfire smoke consists of a mix of gases and fine particulate matter from burning vegetation and materials. The pollutant of most concern from wildfire

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smoke is PM2.5, which can deeply penetrate lung tissue and affect the heart and circulatory system. Although wildfire smoke is a health risk to everyone, sensitive groups experience more severe acute and chronic symptoms from exposure to wildfire smoke. Sensitive groups include children (particularly younger children), older adults, people with chronic respiratory or cardiovascular disease, and low-resourced persons.

In many regions of the United States, climate -driven changes in weather conditions, including temperature and precipitation, are expected to increase ground-level ozone and particulate matter (such as windblown dust or smoke from wildfires). These changes worsen existing air pollution.

More wildfires will release particulate matter and other pollutants into the air. Possible changes in wind patterns may also trap air pollutants in Victor Valley, increasing exposure to air pollution.

Drought
A drought is an extended period when precipitation levels are well below normal. Drought may affect domestic water supply, regional energy production, public health, and wildlife and contribute to wildfire. Like most of California and the western United States, Hesperia chronically experiences drought cycles.

The US Drought Monitor recognizes a five -point scale for drought events:

D0 (abnormally dry), D1 (moderate drought), D2 (severe drought), D3 (extreme drought), and D4 (exceptional drought). According to the US Drought Monitor, the most intensive recent drought was during most of 2022, when all of San Bernardino County was classified as “severe” drought. As of June 2024, San Bernardino County, including Hesperia, was not classified in a drought. During severe drought, water shortages are common, and water re strictions may be imposed to meet essential community needs. The Hesperia Water District’s 2020 Water Shortage Contingency Plan contains actions to implement and enforce regulations and restrictions for managing a water shortage when it declares a water shortage emergency under the authority of the California Water Code.

Given Hesperia’s desert climate and reliance on groundwater, the City is generally not considered especially vulnerable to drought. However, chronic drought can affect groundwater levels if decreased basin inflow and increased demand for water are not managed effectively.

Although droughts are a regular feature of California’s climate, climate change will likely lead to more frequent and intense droughts statewide.

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Overall, precipitation levels are expected to stay similar to historic levels in Hesperia, potentially increasing by the end of the century.

Extreme Heat
Extreme heat has no universal definition, but California guidance documents define extreme heat as hotter than 98 percent of the historical high temperatures for the area measured between April and October of 1961 to 1990. In Hesperia, the extreme heat threshold is 98°F. A heat wave is an event with five extreme heat days in a row , so in Hesperia, a heat wave would be five days in a row over 98°F.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recognizes extreme heat as a serious public health concern. The most vulnerable to extreme heat are children and youth, households in poverty, immigrant/linguistically isolated communities, low -resourced people of color, outdoor workers, persons experiencing homelessness, persons living in mobile homes, persons with chronic illnesses and/or disabilities, persons without access to lifelines, and older adults.

According to the US Census, roughly a quarter of all housing in the City was built before 1980 and is unlikely to have air conditioning or effective insulation to regulate indoor temperatures. During extreme heat days, temperatures in poorly insulated homes may reach unhealthy temperatures.

Therefore, people living in these homes, especially vulnerable populations, are at higher risk for heat-related illnesses during extreme heat events.

The warmer temperatures brought by climate change are likely to cause more extreme heat events locally. Depending on the location and emissions levels, the state Cal -Adapt database indicates the number of extreme heat days is expected to rise from a historical annual average of 5 to 36 days by the middle of the century (2035 to 2064), and an average of 59 days by the end of the century (2070 to 2099).

Severe Weather
Severe weather is generally any destructive weather event, but in Hesperia it manifests as localized storms that bring heavy rain, hail, thunderstorms, and strong winds. Severe weather is usually caused by intense storm systems, although strong winds can occur without a storm. The dangers posed by severe weather vary widely —injuries or deaths, damage to buildings and structures, fallen trees, roads, and railways blocked by debris, and fires sparked by lightning. Severe weather often produces high winds

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and lightning that can damage structures and cause power outages.

Lightning can ignite wildfires and structure fires that can damage buildings and endanger people.

In Hesperia, most severe weather is linked to high winds, often accompanying severe storms, that can cause significant property damage, threaten public safety, and have adverse economic impacts from business closures and power loss. Santa Ana winds have caused extensive damage and increased the fire damage level dramatically. Santa Ana winds are warm, dry winds that blow from the east or northeast (offshore). Santa Ana winds often blow with exceptional speed through the Cajon Pass, beginning in Hesperia. Wind speeds are typically east to west at 40 miles per hour (mph) through and below passes and canyons , with gusts to 74 mph.

Additionally, an “atmospheric river” is a relatively common weather pattern that brings southwest winds and heavy rain. Atmospheric rivers can be associated with heavy precipitation, landslides, and high winds.

Electricity utilities throughout California, including Edison, have begun to occasionally “de-energize” or turn off the electricity for power lines that run through areas with an elevated fire risk. Public Safety Power Shutoff s are intended to reduce the risk of power lines sparking or being damaged and starting a wildfire. As previously described, these activities result in a loss of power for customers served by the affected power lines. A Public Safety Power Shutoff can happen at any time of year, but usually during high wind events and dry conditions. Public Safety Power Shutoffs may be limited to specific communities or affect broad swaths of the state.

Climate change is expected to cause an increase in intense rainfall and strong storm systems, such as atmospheric rivers. However, the frequency of Santa Ana winds is expected to decrease, particularly in the fall and spring months. An increase in intense rainfall and strong storm systems means that Hesperia could see more intense weather in the coming years and decades, although not all forms of severe weather may increase.

However, heavy rainfall can increase the frequency and severity of other hazards, including flooding.

Human Health Hazards
Human health hazards are bacteria, viruses, parasites, and other organisms that cause diseases and illness in people. Some of these diseases may cause only mild inconvenience, but others are potentially life threatening. These diseases are often carried by animals, such as mice and rats, ticks, and mosquitos. Warmer temperatures and high precipitation levels can lead to

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larger populations of disease-carrying animals and therefore a greater risk of disease and higher rates of infection.

Populations most vulnerable to human health hazards are those who spend a disproportionate amount of time outdoors (such as outdoor workers or persons experiencing homelessness), those with fragile immune systems or existing illnesses (which may include persons with chronic illnesses and seniors), and those who live in substandard housing or do not have access to health insurance and medical care (households in poverty, low-resourced people of color, immigrant/linguistically isolated communities, and cost - burdened/low-income/overcrowded households). Many of the vector - carrying organisms thrive in warmer and wetter conditions, and therefore the overall risk of human health hazards is expected to increase.

The following goal and policies aim to make Hesperia more resilient to climate change.

Goal SF-6 A resilient community able to adapt to
climate change hazards.

Policy SF-6.1 Promote water conservation measures in all public and private development.

Policy SF-6.2
Work with regional water providers to implement
extensive water conservation measures and ensure
sustainable water supplies, including for fire
suppression needs.

Policy SF-6.3
Support local agencies to promote public
awareness on resilience initiatives related to poor
air quality, drought, extreme heat, severe weather,
water conservation, and human health hazards.

Policy SF-6.4
Coordinate with the Victor Valley Transit
Authority to increase shading and use of heat-
mitigating materials on pedestrian walkways and
at transit stops.

Policy SF-6.5 Develop and maintain an Extreme Heat Action Plan in accordance with State guidance.

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Policy SF-6.6 Promote the use of drought‐tolerant green infrastructure, including landscaped areas, as part
of cooling strategies in public and private spaces.

Policy SF-6.7
Encourage local businesses to develop workplace
heat safety protocols and provide training for
employers and employees in heat-exposed
occupations.

Policy SF-6.8
Improve the resiliency of City-owned structures to
severe weather events and support homeowners
and business owners to improve the resilience of
their buildings and properties through retrofits,
weatherization, and other improvements.

Policy SF-6.9
Coordinate with the City’s utility service providers
to upgrade, harden, and/or underground their
facilities and infrastructure in Hesperia, to
improve their survivability of a natural or human-
caused hazard event.

Policy SF-6.10
Participate in regional partnerships that support
increased community resilience, such as the Inland
Southern California Climate Collaborative.

Policy SF-6.11
Coordinate with the San Bernardino County
Department of Public Health and healthcare
providers to support free or reduced-cost medical
care for low-resourced households.

Policy SF-6.12
Coordinate with local agencies, healthcare
providers, and community-based organizations
that provide resources to help residents respond to
poor air quality events (e.g., transportation to
resilience centers and supply free N95 masks).

Policy SF-6.13
Work with local contractors and community-based
organizations to help low-income households and
community service providers obtain or upgrade
indoor air filtration systems.

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HEALTHY COMMUNITY
A City’s physical environment—its parks, public facilities, environmental pollution, housing, and so forth— affect the health and wellbeing of residents of a community. As a result, planners incorporate into general plans policy guidance and programs that are designed to improve the built environment and health and wellness. This section of the Health and Safety Element reflects the City’s recognition of the importance of residents’ health and its commitment to create a healthier living environment.

While many cities have long implemented healthy community programs, the “Planning for Healthy Communities Act” formalized that approach.

State law requires that cities with a “disadvantaged community” must adopt goals, policies, and objectives to address e nvironmental justice. The element must: a) identify objectives and policies to reduce the unique or compounded health risks in disadvantaged communities; b) promote civic engagement in the public decision- making process; and c) prioritize improvements and programs that address disadvantaged communities.

Environmental justice refers to the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people in the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental regulations and policies. Fair treatment means that no group should bear disproportionate conse quences from the operations of industrial, commercial, and governmental land uses. In short, environmental justice requires that all residents be treated in an equitable and fair manner with respect to environmental regulations and policies.

The Health and Safety Element establishes a broader healthy community framework that addresses SB 1000 topics, including:
 Reduction of pollution exposure
 Improvement of air quality
 Promotion of physical activity
 Promotion of access to healthy food choices
 Ensuring of safe, sanitary, and healthy housing
 Promotion of equitable access to public facilities and services  Promotion of civic involvement in public decision-making

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DISADV ANTAGED COMMUNITY
The Planning for Healthy Communities Act requires local governments to identify disadvantaged communities in their planning area and to develop policies and programs that improve health conditions in those areas.

SB 1000 defines “disadvantaged communities” as those disproportionally burdened by environmental pollution and with population characteristics that make these areas more sensitive to poor health. Policies must be designed to “reduce the unique or compounded health risks in disadvantaged communities” (Gov. Code, § 65302 (h)(1)(A).

As outlined in the healthy community technical report (Appendix EJ), three broad approaches are used to identify disadvantaged neighborhoods in Hesperia. These methods and results are summarized, followed by a map of the disadvantaged neighborhoods.

Method 1: Mandated criteria under CalEnviroScreen
The first methodology for identifying a disadvantaged tract is based solely on “mandated” criteria provided by CalEnviroScreen. According to this method, only one census tract in Hesperia qualifies as “disadvantaged” based on population and environmental c haracteristics in 2017 (CalEnviroScreen ver. 3). Compared to most communities, Hesperia has a cleaner physical environment, and no particular census tract is designated as disadvantaged due to environmental pollution. However, when CalEnviroScreen is updated in 2025, the number of census tracts that qualify as disadvantaged may change based on more recent data.

Method 2: Cumulative burden based on local data
Cumulative health risks can also be used to identify a disadvantaged tract.

Cumulative risk refers to the impact of multiple pollution sources in an area.

Hesperia’s industrial district along the I-15 will eventually have millions of square feet of warehousing to capitalize on freeway access. Health risk assessments suggests that two census tracts zoned for industrial and commercial uses may result in a high enough pollution burden to make that tract disadvantaged once the tracts are fully developed. Because of the potential for cumulative pollution burden in the future, the City has designated both tracts as disadvantaged for planning purposes.

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Method 3: Population Characteristics
While the prior two methods addressed environmental pollution, the third method for identifying a disadvantaged tract is based solely on population characteristics:
 Tracts scoring as a low resourced tract based on economic, education, and income characteristics of the household.
 Tracts scoring in the worst quartile statewide for the healthy places index and population characteristics according to CalEnviroScreen 4.  Tracts scoring in the worst quartile for physical or mental health due in part to unhealthy lifestyle choices.

When the tracts identified earlier are included, most of Hesperia has some level of disadvantaged status; the issues just vary by location.

The Silverwood Master Plan in southern Hesperia will accommodate more than 15,000 homes and 50,000 new residents. Silverwood will be a full - service community, with new water and sewer service, park and recreation facilities, new roadways, and other key amenities. While future residents of Silverwood will receive a very high quality of new services, original Hesperia will still need housing, water, sewer, park facilities, roads and infrastructure, and other community amenities.

In contrast to Silverwood, Hesperia’s existing built environment will continue to need significant investment in community amenities—housing, parks, roadways, sewer service, sidewalks, etc. Provision of these services will be essential to maintaining quality of life, preserving property values, and creating a healthy community for residents.

Exhibit 11 identifies the disadvantaged census tracts in Hesperia that provide the basis for the issues, goals, and policies that follow.

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Exhibit 11 Disadvantaged Communities

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REDUCTION IN POLLUTION EXPOSURE
The State of California requires that all local governments, especially those with disadvantaged communities, focus on reducing exposure to pollution and improving air quality in their planning area. This task can be daunting for cities like Hesperia, whose local air quality is influenced by pollution emanating from the San Bernardino Valley that is transported to the High Desert with prevailing winds.

CalEnviroScreen notes several sources of pollutants that affect certain residential neighborhoods and nonresidential areas in Hesperia. Pollution sources include, but are not limited to:
 Criteria pollutants from heavy vehicle traffic along the I-15.  Diesel emissions from warehousing and associated trucking.  Potential exposure to lead in housing and from industrial uses.  High levels of noise from freeways, railroads, and industry.  Industries known to store, handle, or transport hazardous wastes.

Hesperia also has more localized sources of pollution in the community.

These include dumping of trash and debris, unkempt residential and nonresidential properties that pose health and safety concerns, and airborne dust that contains biological allergens and irritants. Areas along the I-15 are also susceptible to cumulative health risks due to land use policies and the concentration of industrial uses in that area.

Finally, though the City’s drinking water currently meets all state and federal water quality standards, there are potential threats to the City’s groundwater. These include elevated nitrate due to septic tanks, hexavalent chromium due to natural deposits, and arsenic around the freeway area. As required by state law, the City regularly tests groundwater and takes appropriate actions to ensure that drinking water is in compliance.

The City takes a multifaceted approach to reducing exposure to pollution and improving air quality for residents. This includes enforcing land use policies that separate incompatible land uses; funding community programs to clean up local sources of pollut ants; requiring new projects to mitigate their impacts as required by CEQA; regularly testing water quality and

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protecting the water supply; and enforcing local ordinances for noise, vibration, and other public nuisances.

The following goals and policies are intended to protect residents from unnecessary exposure to pollution and to improve air quality in Hesperia, which will improve the health and wellbeing of residents.

Goal HC-1
Minimize exposure to sources of pollution and
improve air quality in Hesperia to benefit the
health of the community
Policy HC-1.1
Create and maintain land use patterns that protect
residences and other sensitive receptors from
exposure to pollution, dust, noise, odor, vibration,
and other detrimental conditions to public health.

Policy HC-1.2
Require new commercial and industrial projects
west of the I-15 Freeway Corridor area to prepare a
cumulative health risk assessment and appropriate
mitigation plan prior to approval.

Policy HC-1.3
Work with residents, neighborhood groups, and
local agencies to reduce the occurrence of illegal
dumping, trash and debris accumulation, and
ensure the maintenance of private property.

Policy HC-1.4
Facilitate opportunities to increase landscaping and
tree canopy in public and private projects and
infrastructure, where appropriate, focusing on
underserved areas of Hesperia.

Policy HC-1.5
Require buffers, landscaping, and other mitigation
to minimize noise and vibration from railroads,
airports, trucking, warehousing, industry, and other
noise sources to acceptable levels.

Policy HC-1.6
Encourage the use of renewable sources of energy
that will improve air quality; work with regional
agencies to control and reduce potential
contaminants and threats to Hesperia’s aquifer.

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PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Expanding and implementing the opportunities for physical activity are important ways to improve residents’ health. Key opportunities include park and recreational facilities, pedestrian routes, and bicycle routes, among others. These amenities offer opportunities for those who live, work, or visit Hesperia to experience nature, gather with friends and family, and improve physical fitness in a recreational setting.

Parks and Recreational Facilities
Hesperia’s 25 parks and recreational facilities offer nearly 400 acres of land for recreational use. Useable acres excludes parking lots, washes, and facilities requiring fees. Hesperia parks are generally classified as follows:
 Private parks serving a subdivision
 Neighborhood parks that are 2 to 5 acres
 Community parks of 10 acres or more
 Special use parks that focus on specific activities
 Joint use facilities open after school hours
 Regional facilities that serve the entire City

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Despite this acreage, Hesperia faces a shortfall of parks and limited convenient access to parks that are free and open to the public. The City’s goal is to have five acres of parkland for 1,000 residents, which includes three acres for parks and two acres for open space. When undeveloped washes are excluded due to flood control concerns or fee -for service facilities, the City has 113 acres of usable parkland. Based on 113 park acres and a population of 100,000, Hesperia needs at least 187 acres of parkland to address the existing deficit and increase access to areas in southern and northern Hesperia. This deficit will grow over time.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Routes
Hesperia has been gradually developing a bicycle and pedestrian network.

The City’s proposed bicycle network offers 190 miles of bicycle routes at buildout, with two- thirds of the bicycle routes yet to be constructed. The current network includes three types of bicycle routes: Class 1 protected routes, which are separate from the street right of way; Class 2 bike lanes, which are striped lanes along the side of roadways; and Class 3 routes, which are not striped and share the same right-of-way as vehicles.

As provided for in the Circulation Element, goals and policies further clarify the intent of the City’s developing bicycle network. Emphasis is on ensuring that the bicycle network connects residents to key destinations, is designed to promote safe travel, and makes use of creative opportunities (e.g., flood control channels and easements) to expand the bicycle network. The bicycle plan, when implemented, will provide 90 percent of Hesperia’s housing units with a bicycle path, lane, or route within one-half a mile.

Because Hesperia was originally developed as a rural community, most of the City today does not include sidewalks, curb, or gutters. Sidewalks line only 15 percent of C ity streets. The majority of sidewalks are in western Hesperia where the City has seen a large number of tracts developed, the township area of the City across from the Civic Center, and south of Ranchero Road where tracts have been developed. As new devel opment projects are proposed, the City’s General Plan requires sidewalks that comply with City standards, except for older, built-out neighborhoods.

Sidewalks and bicycle routes also give residents additional opportunities for physical activity. A well -developed network of routes can also be an excellent investment in improving public safety. Approximately 32 pedestrian and bicycle collisions occur annually, the vast majority of which involve pedestrians. Main Street, Bear Valley Road, and Ranchero Road

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have the most collisions. Though sidewalks and bicycle routes will not eliminate all safety threats, they will help reduce the number of collisions.

The following goal and implementation policies aim to improve the availability and equity of parks, bicycle, and pedestrian routes in Hesperia and improve the health and well-being of residents.

Goal HC-2
Ample parks, trails, community facilities, and
services that meet community needs, are well
maintained, distributed equitably, and provide
opportunities for active living.

Policy HC-2.1
Create an integrated system of bike, trail, and
pedestrian routes that connect neighborhoods,
corridors, recreation, and other major facilities.

Policy HC-2.2
Collaborate with the Hesperia Recreation and Park
District to assess development impact fees of five
acres of parkland for every 1,000 new residents
served by new residential developments.

Policy HC-2.3
Work with the Hesperia Recreation and Park
District to provide an appropriately designed public
park within a 15-minute walk of all homes to ensure
equitable access from all neighborhoods.

Policy HC-2.4
Support partnerships that provide active and
passive recreational activities that are affordable
and accessible and sensitive to the needs of
different ages and abilities.

Policy HC-2.5
Work with local schools in the community to ensure
that all public schools have safe and walkable
routes to school that can encourage youth to be
physically active.

Policy HC-2.6
Ensure that the function and design of parks,
bicycle routes, and sidewalks meet the needs of
residents of different age groups and abilities, and
also serve northern and southern Hesperia.

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Healthy Food
When healthy food is available, affordable, and accessible in a community, it helps residents make healthier food choices. The High Desert, including Hesperia, has a demonstrated need to improve the health and well-being of residents—nutrition and lifestyle choices make a difference. At the same time, there are also opportunities to improve residents’ health through responsible tobacco and alcohol regulations that can discourage the use of products that can harm health.

Grocery Stores and Healthy Food
Hesperia is home to many full-service grocers—one of the highest ratios in San Bernardino County. Most grocery stores are along Main Street or along Bear Valley Road. Despite the abundance of stores, many residential neighborhoods still have limited access to food (i.e., a condition often called a food desert) and residents must travel more than three miles—sometimes much more—to shop at a full-service grocery. Food security remains a real concern for residents with lower or fixed incomes.

Opportunities to improve access to healthy food are many. Local schools offer healthy breakfasts and lunches to all students, from kindergarten to high school, regardless of income. Local community- based agencies, like the High Desert Food Collaborative, provide low cost food to families.

Hesperia seniors can obtain low cost meals at the Senior Center. And the City of Hesperia has begun approving development proposals for commercial uses, such as grocery stores, in southern Hesperia.

Residents are also at risk of poor health due to tobacco and alcohol.

Approximately one in five Hesperia adults consumes alcohol or tobacco.

Local school surveys also suggest a high prevalence of alcohol and tobacco use among youth and adolescents that is comparable to adults in Hesperia.

Alcohol and tobacco are known to significantly increase health risks, including from increased vehicle accidents.

Hesperia is proactive in addressing tobacco and alcohol health concerns.

The municipal code prohibits smoking lounges and shops, prohibits retail tobacco unless the business has been issued an off-sale alcohol license, and regulates tobacco sales. The City also enforces a social host and deemed - approved ordinance and requires the approval of a conditional use permit for any business that has an off-sale or on-sale alcohol permit.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

HS-60 City of Hesperia General Plan 2025

The following goal and implementation policies aim to improve the health of residents through nutrition, education, and land use policy.

Goal HC-3
Ample access to affordable, healthy food
choices, and appropriate regulations that curb
alcohol, tobacco, and drug use.

Policy HC-3.1
Prioritize the attraction of healthy food stores in
City economic development efforts, especially
where a retail store, farmers’ market, or community
garden is beyond a 10-minute drive from homes.

Policy HC-3.2
Support nonprofits, local healthcare providers, for-
profit organizations, and public agencies in
providing affordable food, nutrition assistance, and
related assistance to reduce food insecurity.

Policy HC-3.3
Support community efforts to expand farmers’
markets, community -supported agriculture,
community gardens, or other means to increase
opportunities to access healthy food options.

Policy HC-3.4
Allow for the cultivation and farming of plants,
including orchards; tree, field, berry, and bush
crops; and commercial flower and vegetable
gardens consistent with municipal code regulations.

Policy HC-3.5
Continue updating and enforcing regulations that
pertain to the location and practices of tobacco
retailers, prohibitions of smoking, and support
tobacco education and prevention.

Policy HC-3.6
Continue updating and enforcing controls that
pertain to the permitting, location, density, and
operation of alcohol retailers, and support alcohol
use education and prevention efforts.

HEALTH AND SAFETY
City of Hesperia General Plan 2025 HS-61

HOUSING SECURITY
The Housing Element is the primary chapter within the general plan for the City’s goals, policies, and objectives for housing. However, State law also requires that the environmental justice element improve the availability of safe and sanitary housing in the community because of its relationship to the health and wellbeing of residents. As demonstrated in the housing element, Hesperia residents experience high levels of overpayment and overcrowding which presents larger housing insecurity issues as well.

While a detail parcel survey is not available, windshield surveys indicate the need for improving residential properties and structures. Approximately 40 percent of the City ’s homes are approaching 50 years old, the point at which significant rehabilitation of plumbing, electrical, roofing, and other features are typically required. In addition, resident surveys indicate the need for better property and yard maintenance.

Achieving healthier homes for residents is an important goal for Hesperia.

According to the National Center for Healthy Housing, a healthy home is one that is dry, clean, safe, ventilated, free of pests, contaminant -free, well maintained, and thermally comfortable. In addition, homes should be affordable and accessible to all people, regardless of age or ability. Homes that satisfactorily address these issues provide the best chance of residents to live healthier and longer lives with less chance of illness.

In addition to housing conditions and the need for housing rehabilitation, Hesperia residents, like many in California, experience a high level of housing insecurity due to a long- standing shortage of affordable housing.

Due to the high cost of housing relative to residents’ income, many Hesperia residents double up (e.g., families living together in a home) or overpay (e.g., spend more than 30 percent of their income) for housing. These conditions make it more difficult to maintain a stable residence.

Hesperia’s mix of residential neighborhoods includes agricultural lots, standard residential subdivisions, higher density small lot areas, and developing mixed use districts. In some areas, older neighborhoods have aged, have a lower level of resources (e. g., amenities and income), and require greater investment to offer the desired quality of life to residents. As noted in the Housing Element, place-based efforts are needed across many of Hesperia’s neighborhoods to ensure their long-term viability.

Hesperia aspires to provide quality housing opportunities for residents. To achieve this goal, efforts will be directed at improving housing conditions.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

HS-62 City of Hesperia General Plan 2025

Code enforcement efforts will assist in furthering property maintenance.

Zoning regulations will allow a range of housing types and products to meet the affordability and lifestyle needs of residents. And finally, for neighborhoods of greater need, place -based efforts will be focused on improving conditions present in those neighborhoods.

The following goal and implementation policies aim to improve housing security, promote fair housing, and reinvest in neighborhoods.

Goal HC-4
Affordable, safe, and sanitary housing choices
and stable neighborhoods that contribute to a
high quality of life and enhance resident
security.

Policy HC-4.1
Facilitate opportunities for the provision,
construction, and improvement of affordable rental
and ownership housing, focusing on lower and
moderate income households.

Policy HC-4.2
Continue to inspect residential buildings; enforce
building, safety, and property maintenance codes;
and encourage the maintenance and repair of
housing in neighborhoods.

Policy HC-4.3
Collaborate with property owners to preserve the
structural quality and long- term affordability of
publicly assisted affordable housing, mobile home
properties, and special needs housing.

Policy HC-4.4
Direct place-based (e.g., neighborhood) efforts on
the provision of affordable housing, housing
rehabilitation, support services, and public services
in lower resource neighborhoods.

Policy HC-4.5
Administer municipal programs and activities
relating to housing and community development in
a manner consistent with the obligation to
affirmatively further fair housing.

HEALTH AND SAFETY
City of Hesperia General Plan 2025 HS-63

PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES
Quality of life is often defined by the public facilities and services available to residents (e.g., public improvements, public services, and other amenities). Public facilities and services include transit, streets and roadways, water and sanitation, fire and police, and other essential services.

These amenities should be distributed to neighborhoods and districts in an equitable manner rather than concentrated in fewer neighborhoods.

As a fast-growing community, Hesperia has significant needs for new and improved roadways, education and library services, park and recreational facilities, and other services for residents and the business community. New residential, commercial, and indus trial development proposed in the community requires a continued realignment of service delivery to meet the changing demand. At the same time, however, existing levels of services provided to the community must be maintained and adjusted as necessary.

Many of Hesperia’s public services are provided by a combination of special districts, County agencies, or local organizations. In other instances, the City contracts with service organizations or private business to provide services. Some of the organizat ions that provide public facilities and services include but are not limited to:
 Transit: Victor Valley Transit Authority
 Police Services: San Bernardino County Sheriff
 Fire Protection: San Bernardino County Fire District
 Parks and Recreation: Hesperia Recreation and Park District  Sanitation: Victor Valley Reclamation Authority (VVWRA)  Human Services: Various nonprofit organizations
 Education and Workforce Training: Hesperia Unified
 Social Services: San Bernardino County
The healthy community technical report that underpins this element documented improvements that are needed to park facilities, public safety, transit, and health care for neighborhoods in Hesperia. Because of the many agencies that serve Hesperia residents and business es, the City needs to monitor the output of services and where gaps exist. Establishing a more formal reporting and monitoring program would enable City decision- makers to better align services to meet community needs.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

HS-64 City of Hesperia General Plan 2025

The following goal and implementation policies aim to improve the public facilities and services and coordination between responsible agencies.

Goal HC-5
Equitable access to quality public facilities and
services for all neighborhoods, including lower
resource areas.

Policy HC-5.1
Regularly repair and maintain streets in residential
neighborhoods and other locations to provide safe
and convenient access to homes, community
amenities, and other destinations.

Policy HC-5.2
Provide responsive public safety service, including
fire and police service, to all residential,
commercial, and industrial areas, regardless of
location.

Policy HC-5.3
Work with the Victor V alley Transit Authority to
establish, maintain, and increase the frequency of
transit routes to provide improved access to all
areas of the community.

Policy HC-5.4
Explore strategies to attract healthcare providers to
Hesperia who will address the shortage of primary,
mental health, and dental care and support schools,
healthcare providers, County, and community-
based groups to expand medical care.

Policy HC-5.5
Collaborate with schools and businesses to improve
the educational attainment of residents and to
attract new businesses that expand the opportunities
for living wage jobs for residents.

Policy HC-5.6
Ensure that an adequate level of water, sanitation,
and drainage service is provided to meet the needs
of homes, business, and public uses, with a focus
on addressing areas
that are underserved with
respect to infrastructure and services.

HEALTH AND SAFETY
City of Hesperia General Plan 2025 HS-65

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
Creating a healthy community that furthers environmental justice is best achieved when community stakeholders (residents, businesses, etc.) participate in the process. All community members should have the opportunity to provide meaningful input into decis ions that affect their health and well -being. Civic engagement is particularly important in Hesperia because the City relies on a wide array of private and nonprofit organizations and outside government agencies to provide services.

Inclusive and meaningful participation can be achieved in different ways— by ensuring that meetings are accessible in terms of language, time, and location; by addressing the public’s concerns soon after they arise; and by using facilitation methods that en courage all participants’ contributions.

Continued engagement after a policy decision is also important to ensure that land use decisions, specific projects, and programs achieve the environmental justice objectives that were intended with legislative actions.

Internal and external communication can be a vehicle for engagement.

Internally, the City of Hesperia needs to be capable of anticipating issues and problems and making decisions in a timely manner. Information should be regularly available through formal channels, so that residents can understand key issues and how the City will address them. The City’s “State of the City” address, website, social media channels, budgeting process, and monitoring are important tools to “report” progress to the community.

The following goal and policies aim to improve opportunities for meaningful participation in creating a healthier community.

Goal HC-6
Meaningful opportunities for civic engagement
in the public decision- making process and
implementation of programs.

Policy HC-6.1
Use broad communication techniques and social
media tools, including virtual participation, to
convey and receive information from the public.

Policy HC-6.2
Continue to raise the public’s and decisionmakers ’
awareness of the importance of a healthy
environment, the issues affecting a healthy city, and
the opportunities to improve health.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

HS-66 City of Hesperia General Plan 2025

Policy HC-6.3
Provide appropriate aids and services leading to
effective communication for persons with
disabilities so they can participate in the City
programs, services, and activities.

Policy HC-6.4
Encourage and support public -private partnerships
that assist in providing services that meet a range of
health, social service, and wellness needs of
residents of Hesperia.

Policy HC-6.5
Establish and maintain a performance monitoring
system for health and safety goals, policies, and
metrics to ensure that adequate service levels are
provided for each planning area of the City.

City of Hesperia

STAFF REPORT
DATE: June 12, 2025
TO: Planning Commission Members
FROM: Nathan R. Freeman, Director of Development Services BY: Ryan Leonard, Principal Planner
SUBJECT: 2025 General Plan Update

RECOMMENDED ACTION
It is recommended that the Planning Commission adopt Resolution No s. PC-2025-08 and PC- 2025-09 recommending that the City Council: 1) Certify the Addendum as being complete and in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); and 2) Adopt the updated Land Use Element, Circulation Element, and Health and Safety Element.

BACKGROUND
The City Council adopted Hesperia’s last General Plan update on September 7, 2010. Since then, state legislation has evolved, requiring specific revisions to maintain legal compliance. In 2024, the City engaged PlaceWorks, Inc. (Placeworks) to update the Land Use, Circulation, and Safety Elements and prepare an Addendum to the 2010 General Plan Environmental Impact Report (EIR). PlaceWorks was also contracted to draft Objective Design Standards in support of the City's recently adopted Housing Element. These standards will be advanced separately at a future date.

To prepare the update, the City and Placeworks hosted several public meetings and workshops.

In 2024, four public meetings and two study sessions were held with the Planning Commission and City Council. The Commission and Council reviewed and discussed critical components of each element, as well as the Objective Design Standards . The project team also consulted stakeholder groups and distributed a public survey to gather input, particularly for the Health and Safety Element.

ISSUES/ANALYSIS
The General Plan is the City’s “Constitution” and guide for development, outlining the City’s vision for itself and how it will develop over time and maintain quality of life. All decisions made by the City, from the adoption of the annual budget and implementation of capital improvements to the issuance of building permits, must be consistent with the General Plan.

Since the last General Plan update in 2010, the City’s popul ation has increased from approximately 90,000 to over 100,000, and employment has grown from 11,000 to 17,000.

Ongoing development interest has helped sustain this economic growth, which is expected to continue. The updated General Plan must also respond to new laws, regulations, and conditions that have emerged since 2010. For instance, recent state legislation on climate adaptation and resiliency requires cities to take steps to better withstand extreme weather events. Additionally,

Attachment 6

Staff Report to the Planning Commission
2025 General Plan Update
June 12, 2025

new mandates have been enacted by the State legislature to address community health, education, and economic equity.

General Plan Goals

As a focused update, the primary objective of the project team was to integrate new policies and programs that comply with State law while preserving the overall vision and direction established by the 2010 General Plan. Throughout the process, input from community members, stakeholders, and City staff consistently reaffirmed that the goals set forth in the original plan remain relevant today. The focused General Plan Update supports the following goals:

 Preserve existing neighborhoods;
 Enhance the quality of residential areas across a variety of densities, with landscap ing and architectural standards;
 Reinforce efforts to build a local job base and establish sales tax-producing businesses along Bear Valley Road, Main Street and the Freeway Corridor;  Preserve lot sizes and prevent premature subdivision of land;  Enhance the quality of life in higher residential density developments with paseos, parks and other amenities;
 Establish a circulation system of arterial and connector streets to carry traffic efficiently within and across the City;
 Support the urban design framework, which includes two new greenways to link the freeway corridor with the downtown area;
 Dedicate housing units for senior citizens as well as for all income levels; and  Permit mixed-use developments in the downtown area and along the freeway corridor.

General Plan Elements

The General Plan Update consists of three chapters, or elements. A summary of each element and the associated issues are as follows:

Land Use: The motivating force behind updates to the Land Use Element stems from programs contained within the City’s adopted Housing Element. Crucially, the update process focused on revising development standards for the R -3, C-2, and R -C designations that more clearly and concisely communicate the City’s intent for these areas. The changes are summarized as follows:

 R-3 Multiple Family Residence : The R3 land use designation is amended to increase the maximum density of residential development from 15 dwelling units per acre to 30 dwelling units per acre and to conditionally permit group homes for seven or more persons.

 C-2 General Commercial : The C2 land use designation is amended to allow 100 -percent residential development ranging from 20 to 30 dwelling units per acre and to permit group homes for six or fewer persons.

 R-C Regional Commercial: The RC zone (part of Main Street and Freeway Corridor Specific Plan) is amended to increase the maximum density of residential development from 25 dwelling units per acre to 30 dwelling units per acre. The zone is also amended to allow 100- percent residential development and to permit group homes for six or fewer persons. The development of residential uses is limited primarily to the east side of Interstate 15.

Staff Report to the Planning Commission
2025 General Plan Update
June 12, 2025

The most frequently referenced part of the General Plan is the Land Use Map. This map shows the location of residential, commercial, industrial us es, as well as schools and parks. The map also shows other features such as railroads, the airport, and the California Aqueduct. Residential uses are classified by density in dwelling units per acre. The proposed land use map does not propose new changes beyond reflecting all General Plan Amendments processed since the 2010 General Plan was adopted.

The text of the Land Use Element includes a description of the City’s existing development pattern, infrastructure, and public services. In addition, the intent for each land use designation is described alongside general density and intensity standards. The goals intended to guide future growth and development include:

 Ensuring compatibility between adjacent uses;
 Preserving and enhancing residential areas;
 Promoting balanced, efficient commercial development to generate sales taxes;  Providing for industrial development to increase opportunities for local employment;  Investing in high-quality public facilities;
 Sustainable development measures, including water conservation, energy efficient design and Leadership in Energy Efficient Design (LEED) building certification;  Improving the quality of life for all community members; and  Ensuring that future growth is fiscally sustainable.

Circulation: The Circulation Element describes the City’s roadway network and identifies operational standards. The Transportation Plan maps the location and classification of streets within the City and illustrates the right-of way widths, as well as the curb-to-curb widths, for each classification, including special street -sections. Roadway performance is measured in terms of Level of Service (LOS), with the City’s acceptable threshold s remaining at LOS D for roadway segments and LOS C for intersections.

The Circulation Element also addresses other modes of transportation like walking, biking, and transit. The Non-Motorized Transportation Plan shows the location and classification of bicycle facilities throughout the City . Most streets include space for bike lanes to encourage their use.

This supports the goal of providing viable alternatives to the automobile.

The Circulation Element also addresses challenges faced by the City, including the need for additional freeway interchanges, more crossings at the railroa d and the Mojave River , and the reclassification of select roadways to better serve vehicular demand . Notable changes to the roadway network are as follows:

 Relocated future I-15 interchange from Muscatel Street to Cedar Street;  Reclassified Sultana Street from Seventh Avenue to I Avenue as Secondary Arterial (formerly Arterial);
 Reclassified Sultana Street from I Avenue to Main Street as Secondary Arterial (formerly local road);
 Modified the alignment of the Mauna Loa Street extension from Third Avenue to Hesperia Road / Lemon Street; and
 Reclassified Seventh Avenue as a Special Street section from Bear Valley Road to Ranchero Road.

Staff Report to the Planning Commission
2025 General Plan Update
June 12, 2025

The goals intended to guide the City as it continues to build out its roadway network address the following issues:

 Ensuring a safe and efficient roadway network;
 Facilitating goods movement without negatively impacting sensitive areas;  Providing opportunities for non-motorized alternatives to vehicular travel; and  Supporting safe and convenient regional transit.

Health and Safety: The Health and Safety Element includes both safety and environmental equity components pursuant to the California Government Code sections 65302(g) and 65302(h).

The safety components focus on natural and human caused hazards, as well as emergency preparedness and response to protect the community from the effects of natural disasters and environmental hazards. The healthy community components focus on strategies to improve health and environmental equity.

Safety Topics
In Hesperia, the key safety issues include seismic and geological hazards, flood and inundation hazards, wildfires, hazardous waste and materials, emergency preparedness and response, and climate change resilience. Th e Safety Element works in tandem with the City’s Local Hazard Mitigation Plan and Emergency Operations Plan to provide a cohesive safety approach for Hesperia.

Since the previous update to the Safety Element in 2010, several new laws have come into effect, requiring updates to the Safety Element:

 AB 2140 (2006): Allows for the incorporation of the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan into the Safety Element;
 SB 1241 (2012): Requires the review and update of the flood and wildfire sections to minimize risk to new buildings and essential facilities and identify responsible agencies and ensure coordination among agencies;
 SB 379 (2015): Requires the preparation of a climate change vulnerability assessment that identifies risks to hazards, and develop goals, policie s, and implementation actions to build resilience in the community;
 SB 99 (2019): Requires the identification of residential areas in hazard zones with less than two ingress/egress routes; and
 AB 747 (2019)/1409 (2021): Requires the identification of evacu ation route capacity, safety, and viability, and evacuation locations under a range of hazard scenarios.

Following extensive technical analysis, staff updated the Safety Element hazard descriptions, goals, and policies to meet current Government Code requ irements. The key changes are summarized as follows:

 Incorporate the Hesperia Local Hazard Mitigation Plan by reference , as supported by AB 2140;
 Update hazard background information and mapping with the most current data from federal, state, and local sources;
 Update policies in the seismic and geologic hazards, flooding hazards, fire hazards, hazardous materials, and emergency preparation and response sections, based on the technical Background Report and California Government Code requirements;

Staff Report to the Planning Commission
2025 General Plan Update
June 12, 2025

 Address climate change vulnerability and adaptation as directed by SB 379 through a new Climate Change Resilience section, including a goal and policies based on the findings of the Climate Vulnerability Assessment; and
 Provide a matrix of actions for implementing the goals and policies of the Safety Element.

Pursuant to California Government Code Section 65302.5(b), the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection reviewed the draft Safety Element and consulted with the City from December 2024 to Janu ary 2025. The State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection’s Resource Protection Committee reviewed the Safety Element on March 4, 2025, during its regular meeting and approved the City to move forward with the public hearings and adoption of the Safety Element without revisions.

Healthy Community Topics
With the passage of S B 1000, the Planning for Healthy Communities Act, a City’s general plan must incorporate goals, policies, and actions to improve health and environmental equity. In addition to SB 1000, the 2021-2029 City’s Housing Element contained commitments to address issues with the built environment as a condition for its certification by the State of California. As a result, the City’s General Plan Safety Element contains a Healthy Communities sec tion that addresses both requirements and builds upon the City’s Resolution 2010-030, which affirms the commitment to promoting and developing a safe and healthy Hesperia for all residents.

To inform goals, policies and programs in the Health and Safety Element, a Healthy Community Technical Report was prepared, supported by information gathered from community workshops, stakeholder interviews, and a public survey. Based on the findings and as required by Section 653902(h) of the Government Code, the Element provides goals, policies, and programs that address the following topics:

 Reduction of pollution exposure;
 Improvement in air quality;
 Opportunities for physical activity;
 Access to healthy food;
 Affordable, safe, and sanitary homes;
 Access to public facilities and services; and
 Increasing opportunities for civic involvement.

Addendum to the 2010 Environmental Impact Report: PlaceWorks prepared the Addendum to the 2010 Certified Environmental Impact Report ( Certified EIR) for Hesperia’s General Plan.

The Addendum evaluates whether the General Plan Update (proposed project) would modify the existing General Plan in such a way that it would create new environmental impacts or substantially increase the severity of previously identified significant effects, potentially requiring further environmental review. The Addendum, in conjunction with the Certified EIR, serve as the environmental review for the proposed modifications to the existing General P lan, ensuring compliance with CEQA. The Addendum eva luates the potential environmental impacts associated with the existing General Plan as modified by the General Plan Update.

The proposed project will update the Land Use, Circulation, and Health and Safety elements, as well as the environmental equity policies to address state laws and support projected growth over the next 25 years. The proposed project is a focused update of the current General Plan to conform with new State laws related to community health, climate adaptation, resiliency, and mobility, and to bring long -term growth projections into alignment with current economic

Staff Report to the Planning Commission
2025 General Plan Update
June 12, 2025

conditions and state mandates. Differences in population, jobs, housing units, and non-residential square feet between the existing General Plan and General Plan Update at buildout are shown in the following table.

Comparison of Buildout Conditions for Existing General Plan and General Plan Update Existing General Plan1
(2050)
General Plan Update
(2050) Difference
Population 144,538 162,835 +18,297
Jobs 48,527 48,502 -25
Housing Units 54,430 61,570 +7,140
Non-Residential
Square Feet
67,613,266 66,733,917 -879,349
1 The 2010 Certified EIR did not include a planning horizon, and therefore, the buildout under the existing General Plan was adjusted to account for a 2050 horizon year. The buildout under the proposed project is within the overall buildout as envisioned in the 2010 Certified EIR

Addendum Process: Pursuant to the CEQA Guidelines Section 15164, an Addendum to a previously certified EIR may be prepared under specific circumstances. The Addendum process allows for the documentation of minor project changes or technical updates that do not result in new or substantially more severe environmental impacts.

The proposed project qualifies for an Addendum under CEQA Guidelines Section 15164, as the proposed changes are consistent with the scope of the previously Certified EIR and do not meet any of the conditions outlined in Section 15162(a) and Section 15163(a) of the CEQA Guidelines, that would require preparation of a Subsequent or Supplemental EIR. The environmental impacts remain within the range analyzed in the Certified EIR, and no new significant impacts or substantial increases in the severity of impacts have been identified. Therefore, preparation of a full Subsequent EIR is not warranted, and the Addendum process is both appropriate and compliant with CEQA requirements.

Tribal Consultation: In compliance with Senate Bill 18 (Government Code Section 65352.3), the City of Hesperia initiated tribal consultation by contacting California Native American tribes identified by the Native American Heritage Commission. Notification letters were sent on May 21, 2024, to the Desert Cahuilla Indians, the Cabazon Band of Mission Indians, and the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel. The Yuhaaviatam of the San Manuel tribe responded on May 24, 2024, and requested formal consultation with the City. The City indicated th at the proposed project would not allow for any ground-disturbing activities that would preclude a project from going through the standard CEQA requirements, and the Tribe concluded consultation on October 30, 2024.

In addition, since the proposed project is being evaluated through a CEQA Addendum and not a new EIR, consultation pursuant to Assembly Bill 52 (Public Resources Code Sections 21073 to 21084.3) do not apply in this instance.

Significant Impacts: CEQA requires that the EIR identify the impacts of a project and propose mitigation measures to reduce those impacts. CEQA also requires disclosure of any impacts that cannot be mitigated to a non -significant level, even if all feasible mitigations are req uired. The Certified EIR determined that implementation of the existing General Plan would result in significant and unavoidable impacts related to air quality, noise, and transportation. The

Staff Report to the Planning Commission
2025 General Plan Update
June 12, 2025

Addendum determined that these impacts would continue to be sign ificant and unavoidable as part of the proposed project, as summarized:

 Air Quality

o Results in construction emissions that would contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation;
o Results in operational emissions that would contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation; and
o Results in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is nonattainment under an applic able federal or state ambient air quality standard (including releasing emissions, which exceed quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors).

 Noise

o Results in a substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity.

 Transportation1

o Causes an increase in traffic, which is substantial in relation to the existing traffic load and capacity of the street system; and
o Exceed, either individually or cumulatively, a level of service standard established by the county congestion management agency for designated roads or highways.

No new significant environmental impacts have been identified beyond those already assessed in the Certified EIR. While the proposed project may result in physical impacts due to future improvements, the analysis and mitigation measures from the Certified EIR will still apply. While the project involves physical impacts, it does not result in new significant environmental effects or substantially increase the severity of previously identified impacts. The analysis and mitigation measures from the previously Certified EIR remain applicable to the proposed project.

CITY GOAL SUPPORTED BY THIS ITEM

Future Development: Facilitate balanced growth to ensure cohesive community development and pursue economic development.

CONCLUSION

Adoption of the General Plan Update will bring the City’s primary policy document into compliance with new state laws and mandates and ensure continued compliance with CEQA . The update will also address the changes the City has experienced in the previous 15 years since the General Plan was last updated. The update will provide guidance to the City’s decision makers and staff to carry out the overall vision for the City of Hesperia. The Addendum substantiates that the proposed changes do not induce new significant environmental impacts beyond those already addressed by the 2010 General Plan EIR.

1 The 2010 Certified EIR found impacts to Level of Service (LOS) to be significant and unavoidable.

However, since CEQA no longer uses LOS as a threshold standard, and has replaced it with Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT), the LOS significance is no longer applicable to CEQA.

Staff Report to the Planning Commission
2025 General Plan Update
June 12, 2025

ALTERNATIVE

1. Provide alternative direction to staff.

ATTACHMENT(S)

1) Resolution No. PC-2025-08 (Certifying the Addendum in compliance with CEQA) 2) Resolution No. PC-2025-09 (Adoption of the 2025 General Plan Update) 3) Addendum to the 2010 General Plan EIR*
4) Land Use Element*
5) Circulation Element*
6) Health and Saftey Element*

The attachments above noted by an * are available on the City’s website at www.cityofhesperia.us and are provided under separate cover.

RESOLUTION NO. PC-2025-08

A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE

CITY OF HESPERIA, RE COMMENDING THAT THE CITY
COUNCIL ADOPT THE ADDENDUM TO THE CITY ’S 2010

GENERAL PLAN FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
(EIR) PURSUANT TO CEQA IN SUPPORT OF THE 2025

GENERAL PLAN UPDATE

WHEREAS, on September 7, 2010, the City Council of the City of Hesperia adopted Resolution No. 2010-057 certifying the Final EIR for the City’s 2010 General Plan, which also remains applicable to development within the City; and

WHEREAS, fifteen (15) years have passed since the City of Hesperia adopted the 2010 General Plan and changes to t he City ’s size and population, as well as new laws, regulations, and circumstances that did not exist when the original General Plan was adopted, require an update to the General Plan described herein (hereinafter referred to as " 2025 General Plan Update" or “Project”); and

WHEREAS, the 2025 General Plan Update is a focused update to the three mandatory elements required by the State of California, including Land Use, Circulation and Health and Safety Elements; and

WHEREAS, the Addendum has been prepared pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Se ction 15164 to evaluate whether the proposed 2025 General Plan Update would result in any new significant impacts, substantially more severe impacts, or trigger the need for a subsequent or supplemental EIR under Sections 15162 or 15163; and

WHEREAS, the 2010 General Plan EIR identified significant and unavoidable impacts to air quality, noise, and traffic, but the significant and unavoidable impacts pertaining to traffic no longer apply as Level of Service (LOS) was replaced with Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) per Senate Bill 743 (SB 743) and CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3, and VMT has been determined to be the applicable metric for analyzing transportation impacts under CEQA, thereby r endering LOS - based impacts no longer applicable; and

WHEREAS, the Addendum to the 2010 General Plan EIR reflects this change in CEQA law and confirms that this transition from LOS to VMT does not result in new or more severe environmental effects; and

WHEREAS, the Addendum concludes that all impacts remain within the sc ope of analysis in the certified 2010 General Plan EIR, and that none of the criteria in CEQA Guidelines Section 15162 or Section 15163 are met; and

WHEREAS, on June 12, 2025, the Planning Commission of the City of Hesperia conducted a duly noticed public hearing pertaining to the Addendum to the 2010 General Plan EIR in connection with the 2025 General Plan Update and concluded said hearing on that date; and

WHEREAS, all legal prerequisites to the adoption of this Resolution have occurred.

ATTACHMENT 1

Resolution No. PC-2025-08

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY OF HESPERIA PLANNING COMMISSION AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1. The Planning Commission hereby specifically finds that all of the facts set forth in this Resolution are true and correct.

Section 2. Based upon substantial evidence presented to this Planning Commission during the above-referenced June 12, 2025, hearing, including public testimony and written and oral staff reports, this Planning Commission specifically finds as follows:

(a) An Addendum to the 2010 General Plan EIR has been prepared for the 2025 General Plan Update. The 2025 General Plan Update qualifies for an Addendum under CEQA Guidelines Section 15164, as the proposed project is consistent with the scope of the 2010 General Plan EIR and does not meet any of the conditions outlined in Section 15162(a) or Section 15163(a) of the CEQA Guidelines, th at would require preparation of a Subsequent or Supplemental EIR. The environmental impacts remain within the range analyzed in the 2010 General Plan EIR, and no new significant impacts or substantial increases in the severity of impacts have been identifi ed. Therefore, preparation of a full Subsequent EIR is not warranted, and the Addendum process is both appropriate and compliant with CEQA requirements.

(b) The Planning Commission has independently reviewed and analyzed the Addendum, and finds that it reflects the independent judgment of the Planning Commission, and that there is no substantial evidence, in light of the whole record, that the project may result in new significant impacts or substantial increases in the severity of impacts that were previously identified.

Section 3. The Planning Commission hereby recommends that the City Council certify the Addendum to the 2010 General Plan EIR as being complete pursuant to Resolution No.

PC-2025-08.

Section 4. The Secretary shall certify to the adoption of this Resolution.

ADOPTED AND APPROVED on this 12th day of June 2025

___________________________________
Roger Abreo, Chair, Planning Commission
ATTEST:

__________________________________
Maricruz Montes, Secretary, Planning Commission

RESOLUTION NO. PC-2025-09

A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF

HESPERIA, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT THE 2025 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE.

WHEREAS, on September 7, 2010, the City Council of the City of Hesperia adopted the City’s General Plan, currently applicable with regards to development within the City; and

WHEREAS, on September 2, 2008, the City Council of the City of Hesperia adopted Resolution No. 2008-12, thereby adopting the Main Street and Freeway Corridor Specific Plan; and

WHEREAS, fifteen (15) years have passed since the City of Hesperia adopted its 2010 General Plan and changes to the City’s size and population as well as new laws, regulations, and circumstances that did not exist when the original plan was adopted, require an update to the General Plan described herein (hereinafter referred to as "General Plan Update" or “Project”); and

WHEREAS, on May 2, 2023 the City Council adopted the 2021-2029 Housing Element (6th Cycle Housing Element Update) which includes several program actions that require the City to amend the Development Code and update the General Plan to allow for up to 30 dwelling units per acre (du/ac) in the Multi-Family (R3) zone ; to allow for 100 -percent residential development ranging from 20 to 30 du/ac in the General Commercial (C -2) zone; and to allow for up to 30 du/ac in the Regional Commercial (RC) zone within the Main Street and Freeway Corridor Specific Plan.

WHEREAS, the General Plan Update establishes the City’s overall policy development framework to help realize the community’s vision to the year 2050 planning horizon; and

WHEREAS, the General Plan Update is a focused update to the Land Use, Safety, and Circulation Elements of the General Plan; and

WHEREAS, the City of Hesperia, as the lead agency, prepared an Addendum to the 2010 General Plan Environmental Impact Report (“EIR”) pursuant to Section 15164 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelin es, and determined that no new significant environmental impacts would occur beyond those previously analyzed in the 2010 General Plan EIR, and that the existing analysis and mitigation measures remain applicable to the proposed project; and

WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held five workshops on April 11, 2024, May 23, 2024, July 11, 2024, August 8, 2024 and September 26, 2024 to review and discuss critical components of each element; and

WHEREAS, on November 18, 2024, the City Council held a workshop to review and discuss the 2025 General Plan Update; and

WHEREAS, pursuant to California Government Code Section 65302.5(b), the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection reviewed the draft Safety Element and consulted with the City from December 2024 to January 2025. The State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection’s Resource Protection Committee reviewed the Safety Element on March 4, 2025, during its regular meeting and approved the City to proceed with the pu blic hearings and adoption of the Safety Element without revisions; and

ATTACHMENT 2

Resolution No. 2025-09

WHEREAS, on June 12, 2025, the Planning Commission of the City of Hesperia conducted a duly noticed public hearing pertaining to the proposed 2025 General Plan Update and concluded said hearing on that date; and

WHEREAS, all legal prerequisites to the adoption of this Resolution have occurred.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY OF HESPERIA PLANNING COMMISSION AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1. The Planning Commission hereby specifically finds that all the facts set forth in this Resolution are true and correct.

Section 2. Based upon substantial evidence presented to this Planning Commission during the above-referenced June 12, 2025, hearing, including public testimony and written and oral staff reports, this Planning Commission specifically finds as follows:

(a) An Addendum to the 2010 General Plan EIR has been prepared for the 2025 General Plan Update . The 2025 General Plan Update qualifies for an Addendum under CEQA Guidelines Section 15164, as the proposed project is consistent with the scope of the 2010 General Plan EIR and does not meet any of the conditions outlined in Section 15162(a) or Section 15 163(a) of the CEQA Guidelines, that would require preparation of a Subsequent or Supplemental EIR. The environmental impacts remain within the range analyzed in the 2010 General Plan EIR, and no new significant impacts or substantial increases in the sever ity of impacts have been identified. Therefore, preparation of a full Subsequent EIR is not warranted, and the Addendum process is both appropriate and compliant with CEQA requirements.

(b) The Planning Commission has independently reviewed and analyzed the Addendum and finds that it reflects the independent judgment of the Commission, and that there is no substantial evidence, in light of the whole record, that the project may result in new significant impacts or substantial increases in the severity of impacts that were previously identified.

(c) Adoption of the 2025 General Plan Update will achieve the following goals:

 Ensuring compatibility between adjacent uses;
 Preserving and enhancing residential areas;
 Promoting balanced, efficient commercial developme nt to generate sales taxes;
 Providing for industrial development to increase opportunities for local employment;
 Investing in high-quality public facilities;
 Sustainable development measures, including water conservation, energy efficient design and Leadership in Energy Efficient Design (LEED) building certification;
 Improving the quality of life for all community members;

Resolution No. 2025-09

 Ensuring that future growth is fiscally sustainable.
 Ensuring a safe and efficient roadway network;
 Facilitating goods movement without negatively impacting sensitive areas;  Providing opportunities for non-motorized alternatives to vehicular travel;  Supporting safe and convenient regional transit;
 Reducing pollution exposure;
 Improving air quality;
 Opportunities for physical activity;
 Access to healthy food;
 Affordable, safe, and sanitary homes;
 Access to public facilities and services; and
 Increasing opportunities for civic involvement
Section 3. Based on the findings and conclusions set forth in this Resolution, this Commission hereby recommends that the City Council approve the 2025 General Plan Update and certify the Addendum to the 2010 General Plan EIR.

Section 4. That the Secretary shall certify to the adoption of this Resolution.

ADOPTED AND APPROVED on this 12th day of June 2025.
_______________________________
Roger Abreo, Chair, Planning Commission
ATTEST:
_________________________________________
Maricruz Montes, Secretary, Planning Commission

City of Hesperia

STAFF REPORT

DATE: July 15, 2025
TO: Mayor and Council Members

FROM: Rachel Molina, City Manager
BY: Cassandra Sanchez, Director of Public Works/City Engineer Kevin Sin, Deputy City Engineer
Dena Alcayaga, Administrative Analyst

SUBJECT: Amending Final Tract Map No. 17915-2

RECOMMENDED ACTION

It is recommended that the City Council hold a public hearing to receive public comments and adopt Resolution No. 2025-23 to approve Amending Final Tract Map No. 17915-2 to correct an error on the Owner’s Statement of the map which is located on the north side of Mojave Street and the south side of Valencia Street, west of Topaz Avenue (Applicant: NV Hesperia Investors, LLC APN: 0405-052-37).

BACKGROUND

On October 21, 2008, the City Council approved Tentative Tract Map No. 17915 to create 268 Single-family Residential lots on approximately 46 gross acres within the low density residential (LDR) zone of the Main Street and Freeway Corridor Specific Plan located on the north side of Mojave Street and the south side of Valencia Street, 335 feet west of Topaz Avenue . The map was approved for 6 phases. Tentative Tract Map No. 17915 was subsequently extended by the City and State of California multiple times . The first phase Final Tract Map No. 17915 -1 was originally recorded on July 28, 2022. Consequently, the remaining phases of Tentative Tract Map No. 17915 received extensions until May 23, 2026.

Final Tract Map No. 17915-2 was approved by City Council on February 18, 2025, and has been recorded with the San Bernardino County . This map creates 205 Single-family Residential lots and 5 Lettered lots . The portion cover s approximately 35.15 gross acres. This map includes phases 2 through 6. The Developer is a mending Final Tract Map 17915 -2 to correct an error within the Owner’s Statement that lists the wrong street names to be dedicated to the City of Hesperia for right-of-way. The proper street names need to be listed in the Owner’s Statement to be dedicated to the City of Hesperia for right-of-way and public use.

Staff reviewed Amending Final Tract Map No. 1 7915-2 and determined that it complies with all General Plan and zoning regulations and with all local ordinances related to the creation of these parcels

ISSUES/ANALYSIS

There are no issues identified with this item.

Staff Report to the Mayor and Council Members
Amending Final Tract Map No. 17915-2
July 15, 2025

CITY GOAL SUPPORTED BY THIS ITEM

Future Development - Facilitate balanced growth to ensure cohesive community development and pursue economic development.

FISCAL IMPACT

There are no significant fiscal impacts to the City related to this action.

ALTERNATIVE(S)

1. Provide alternative direction to staff.

ATTACHMENT(S)

1. Resolution No. 2025-23

2. Final Tract Map No. 17915-2

3. Amending Final Tract Map No. 17915-2

RESOLUTION NO. 2025-23

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HESPERIA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AMENDING FINAL TRACT MAP NO. 17915 -2 TO CORRECT AN ERROR ON THE OWNER’S STATEMENT WHICH IS LOCATED

ON THE NORTH SIDE OF MOJAVE STREET AND THE SOUTH SIDE OF VALENCIA, WEST OF TOPAZ AVENUE (APPLICANT: NV HESPERIA INVESTORS, LLC APN: 0405-052-37).

WHEREAS, on October 21, 2008, the City Council approved Tentative Tract Map No.17915 to create 268 Single-family Residential lots on approximately 46 gross acres within the low density residential (LDR) zone of the Main Street and Freeway Corridor Specific Plan located on the north side of Mojave Street and the south side of Valencia Street, 335 feet west of Topaz Avenue.

Tentative Tract Map No.17915 consists of 6 phases; and

WHEREAS, Tentative Tract Map No. 17915 was subsequently extended by the City and State of California multiple times; and

WHEREAS, on July 28, 2022, the first phase Final Tract Map No.17915-1 was recorded with the San Bernardino County. Consequently, Tentative Tract Map No. 17915 received an extension until May 23rd, 2026; and

WHEREAS, Final Tract Map No. 17915-2 creates 205 Single-family Residential lots and 5 lettered lots on approximately 35.15 gross acres; and

WHEREAS, Final Tract Map No. 17915-2 includes phases 2 through 6; and

WHEREAS, Final Tract Map No. 17915 -2 was approved by City Council on February 18, 2025 and has been recorded with the San Bernardino County; and

WHEREAS, the Developer is amending Final Tract Map 17915 -2 to correct an error within the Owner’s Statement that lists the wrong street names to be dedicated to the City of Hesperia for right-of-way; and

WHEREAS, the proper street names need to be listed to be dedicated to the City of Hesperia for right-of- way and public use; and

WHEREAS, all legal prerequisites to the adoption of this resolution have occurred.

NOW THEREFORE , BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY OF HESPERIA CITY COUNCIL AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1. Amending Final Tract Map No. 17915-2 is hereby approved, and the City Clerk is authorized to present same to the County Recorder to be filed for record.

Section 2. That the City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this resolution and enter it into the book of original resolutions.

ADOPTED AND APPROVED this 15th day of July 2025.

Allison Lee
Mayor
ATTEST:

Jessica Giber
Assistant City Clerk

Attachment 2

Attachment 3