Lake Forest City Council
September 3, 2024

AGENDA

LAKE FOREST CITY COUNCIL
Regular Meeting of the City Council
Tuesday, September 3, 2024
Public Session 6:30 p.m.

City Council Chambers, 100 Civic Center Drive, Lake Forest, California NOTICE: Pursuant to Lake Forest Municipal Code Section 2.04.010, Regular Meetings of the City Council are held the First and Third Tuesday of each month at the hour of 5:30 p.m. for Closed Session matters, if required.

The Public Session of the meeting shall commence at 6:30 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible. Special Meeting times may be held at a different time and date as listed on the Agenda.

AGENDA DOCUMENT REVIEW: The Agenda and staff reports are available on the Internet at https://www.lakeforestca.gov/en/government/meeting-agendas-and-minutes/meeting-agendas and at the City Clerk’s Office, 100 Civic Center Drive, Lake Forest, California, on the Friday before the meeting on Tuesday.

AGENDA DESCRIPTION: The Agenda descriptions are intended to give notice to members of the public of a general summary of items of business to be transacted or discussed. The listed Recommended Action represents staff’s recommendation. The City Council may take any action which it deems to be appropriate on the agenda item and is not limited in any way by the recommended action.

AGENDA ON SOCIAL MEDIA: This meeting will be streamed through Facebook Live. Comments will not be taken via Facebook Live. The City provides the Facebook Live stream as an additional service to the public.

However, the City cannot guarantee that its network and/or the site will be uninterrupted. The City is not responsible for any interrupted service.

SPECIAL NOTICE REGARDING PUBLIC ACCESS TO THE MEETING AND PUBLIC COMMENT:

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: In addition to attending in person, members of the public may access the meeting live on our website at https://www.lakeforestca.gov/en/government/meeting-agendas-and-minutes/meeting-agendas.

PUBLIC COMMENT PRIOR TO THE MEETING: Members of the public may submit email comments to [email protected]. Email comments will be uploaded to the agenda packet and made part of the official public record of the meeting and will not be read at the meeting. To ensure staff reviews all comments prior to the City Council meeting, please submit email comments no later than 5:00 p.m. the day of the meeting.

PUBLIC COMMENT: Members of the public may provide comments in-person at the meeting. Public comments will no longer be accepted remotely. Those wishing to provide comments in-person at the meeting will be asked to submit a request to speak to the City Clerk. To ensure prompt distribution to the City Council, members of the public wishing to provide written materials to the City Council should do so prior to the start of the meeting or as close thereto as possible, as time will not be taken during the public comment period to distribute written materials to the City Council.

TRANSLATION SERVICE: Interpreters are available by request to members of the public that prefer to make their public comments in Spanish or Chinese. Requests for a translator need to be received by 8:00 a.m. the Monday before the scheduled City Council meeting. Such requests must be received via email at [email protected]
September 3, 2024 LAKE FOREST CITY COUNCIL AGENDA Page 1 Los intérpretes están disponibles previa solicitud para el público que prefiera hacer sus comentarios públicos en español o chino. Las solicitudes de traductor deben recibirse antes de las 8:00 a. m. del lunes anterior a la reunión programada del Concejo Municipal. Dichas solicitudes deben recibirse por correo electrónico a [email protected]
如果大眾願意用西班牙語或中文發表公開評論，我們可應要求提供口譯服務。需要在預定市議會會議之前的周一
上午 8:00 之前收到翻譯請求。此類請求必須透過電子郵件收到：[email protected] Rúguǒ dàzhòng yuànyì yòng xībānyá yǔ huò zhōngwén fābiǎo gōngkāi pínglùn, wǒmen kě yīng yāoqiú tígōng k ǒuyì fúwù. Xūyào zài yùdìng shì yìhuì huìyì zhīqián de zhōuyī shàngwǔ 8:00 Zhīqián shōu dào fānyì qǐngqiú. Cǐ l èi qǐngqiú bìxū tòuguò diànzǐ yóujiàn shōu dào: [email protected] CALL TO ORDER:

Council Members:

Mayor Pro Tem:

Mayor:

City Manager:

City Attorney:

City Clerk:
6:30 p.m.

Doug Cirbo
Robert Pequeño
Benjamin Yu
Scott Voigts
Mark Tettemer
Debra Rose
Matthew E. Richardson
Lisa Berglund
PUBLIC SESSION: 6:30 p.m.

PUBLIC SESSION: At this time, the City Council will convene to consider public matters. Those wishing to address the City Council must submit a completed “Request to Speak” form to the City Clerk prior to City Council action.

INVOCATION: The Invocation will be provided by Chaplain Serena Cummins, Orange County Sheriff’s Department.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of our Country to be led by Boy Scout Troop #639.

REPORT FROM STUDENT LIAISON: Report from Maya Lowrey, Student Liaison from El Toro High School.

PRESENTATIONS (Item Nos. 1 – 3)
September 3, 2024 LAKE FOREST CITY COUNCIL AGENDA Page 2

1. NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve the Proclamation designating September 2024 as National Preparedness Month.

2. PROCLAMATION DECLARING SEPTEMBER 2024 AS HUNGER ACTION MONTH
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Present a proclamation designating September 2024 as “Hunger Action Month.”

3. PROCLAMATION DECLARING SEPTEMBER 2024 AS WORLD

ALZHEIMER'S AWARENESS MONTH
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Present a proclamation designating September 2024 as "World Alzheimer's Awareness Month."

PUBLIC COMMENTS
Members of the public can submit an e-comment to [email protected]. E-comments will not be read at the meeting.

Members of the public may also provide comments in-person at the meeting or remotely. Those wishing to provide comments in- person at the meeting will be asked to submit a request to speak to the City Clerk.

CONSENT CALENDAR (Item Nos. 4 – 7)
All matters listed under the Consent Calendar are considered routine and will be enacted by one vote. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless Members of the City Council, the public, or staff request specific items be removed from the Consent Calendar for separate action.

4. MOTION TO WAIVE READING OF RESOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES RECOMMENDED ACTION: Said Ordinances and Resolutions which appear on the public agenda shall be determined to have been read by title and further reading waived.

5. MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL HELD ON AUGUST 20, 2024
September 3, 2024 LAKE FOREST CITY COUNCIL AGENDA Page 3 RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve as submitted.

6. AMENDMENT TO CLASSIFICATION PLAN AND COMPENSATION
SCHEDULE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-25
RECOMMENDED ACTION: 1. Adopt Resolution entitled: A RESOLUTION

OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAKE FOREST, CALIFORNIA,

ADOPTING A REVISED CLASSIFICATION PLAN AND COMPENSATION SCHEDULE. 2. Adopt Resolution entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY

COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAKE FOREST, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE 2023-2025 OPERATING BUDGET AND APPROPRIATIONS FOR FY 2024-25.

7. FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH BRIGHTLIFE

DESIGNS FOR SEASONAL AND YEAR-ROUND LIGHTING SERVICES
RECOMMENDED ACTION: 1. Approve the First Amendment to the Agreement with Brightlife Designs, LLC for Seasonal and Year-Round Lighting Services. 2. Authorize the Mayor to sign, and the City Clerk to attest, the First Amendment to the Agreement with Brightlife Designs, LLC, substantially in the form attached.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS (Item No. 8)
The following matters are for City Council consideration/discussion/action. Members of the public may have the opportunity to address these items if they wish to do so. Please complete the Request to Speak form and give to the City Clerk.

8. APPROVE AND ADOPT A LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Adopt a Resolution entitled: A RESOLUTION

OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAKE FOREST, CALIFORNIA

APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN

OF THE CITY OF LAKE FOREST

CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
At this time, the City Manager may comment on agenda and non-agenda items; and report on items of interest to the City Council September 3, 2024 LAKE FOREST CITY COUNCIL AGENDA Page 4 and community.

CITY COUNCIL COMMENTS
At this time, City Council Members may comment on agenda or non-agenda matters. No discussion may take place on any item not appearing on the posted agenda. Council Members may ask a question for clarification, respond to statements made or questions posed by the public, make a brief announcement, or make a brief report on his or her own activities. In addition, the City Council may refer to staff or other resources for factual information, request staff to report back at a subsequent meeting or direct staff to place a matter of business on a future agenda. No action may be taken on non-agenda matters unless authorized by law (Government Code Section 54954.2).

Council Member Cirbo:

Council Member Pequeño:

Council Member Yu:

Mayor Pro Tem Voigts:

Mayor Tettemer:

September 3, 2024 LAKE FOREST CITY COUNCIL AGENDA Page 5

ADJOURNMENT
In compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this Meeting, including auxiliary aids or services, you should contact the Office of the City Clerk at (949) 461-3400.

Notification 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting. The City Council agenda and agenda back-up materials can be obtained from the Office of the City Clerk on the Friday prior to the City Council meeting. Copies of all Agendas, Staff Reports and Supporting Materials can also be found on the City’s website – https://www.lakeforestca.gov/129/Agendas.

Agenda and agenda packets, if requested, will be made available in an appropriate alternative format to persons with a disability as required by the Americans With Disabilities Act. Copies of the agenda are provided at no cost and agenda back-up materials are available at the per page copy cost.

The City of Lake Forest mailing address is City Council Chambers, 100 Civic Center Drive, Lake Forest, California.

Phone: (949) 461-3400. FAX (949) 461-3511
CERTIFICATION: I,Thy Merritt, Assistant City Clerk of the City of Lake Forest, California, hereby certify that the foregoing agenda was posted for public review at City Hall on August 29, 2024.

Thy Merritt
Assistant City Clerk
September 3, 2024 LAKE FOREST CITY COUNCIL AGENDA Page 6

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: 9/3/2024
DEPARTMENT: Management Services
SUBJECT:

NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH
RECOMMENDED ACTION(S):

Approve the Proclamation designating September 2024 as National Preparedness Month.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

National Preparedness Month is observed each September in the United States.

The Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency (“FEMA”) encourages all residents to prepare for emergencies at home and at work. This year, the 2024 National Preparedness Month campaign focuses on Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities and helping those communities prepare for disasters and build resilience before disaster strikes. It is a great initiative that encourages individuals, families, and communities to take necessary steps to prepare for emergencies. Staff recommends the City Council approve the Proclamation designating September 2024 as “National Preparedness Month” in the City of Lake Forest.

FISCAL IMPACT:

There is no fiscal impact associated with the recommended action.

ATTACHMENTS:

Proclamation National Preparedness Month 2024
Initiated By: Sharlyn de la Paz, Administrative Services Manager Submitted By: Sean McGovern, Deputy City Manager
Approved By: Debra Rose, City Manager
Item: 1
7 Attachment
Item: 1
8 PROCLAMATION

THE LAKE FOREST CITY COUNCIL

HEREBY PROCLAIMS
September 2024
AS
“NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH”
_________________________________

MARK TETTEMER
MAYOR

SCOTT VOIGTS

MAYOR PRO TEM
__________________________

DOUG CIRBO

COUNCIL MEMBER
_______________________
ROBERT PEQUEÑO

COUNCIL MEMBER
__________________________

BENJAMIN YU

COUNCIL MEMBER
Item: 1
9 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: 9/3/2024
DEPARTMENT: City Clerk
SUBJECT:

PROCLAMATION DECLARING SEPTEMBER 2024 AS HUNGER ACTION
MONTH
RECOMMENDED ACTION(S):

Present a proclamation designating September 2024 as “Hunger Action Month.” EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

The Orange County Food Bank and Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County are requesting that the City Council support a proclamation declaring the month of September 2024 as “Hunger Action Month” in the City of Lake Forest.

Hunger Action Month is a national effort of Feeding America to raise awareness of the levels of food and nutritional insecurity in our country. Hunger can affect people from all walks of life. Millions of Americans are just one job loss, missed paycheck, or medical emergency away from hunger. Feeding America is a nonprofit organization that is a nationwide network of more than two hundred food banks that feed the hungry through food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and other community-based agencies. A representative from Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County will be in attendance to accept the proclamation.

FISCAL IMPACT:

There is no fiscal impact associated with the recommended action.

ATTACHMENTS:

September 2024 Hunger Action Month Proclamation
Initiated By: Ruthie Marroquin, Senior Office Specialist Submitted By: Lisa Berglund, City Clerk
Approved By: Debra Rose, City Manager
Item: 2
10 5
4 0
8 3
Attachment
Item: 2
11 5
4 0
8 3
City of Lake Forest Proclamation
Hunger Action Month – September 2024
WHEREAS, hunger and poverty are issues of vital concern in California, where one in five Californians face food insecurity on a daily basis and do not know where their next meal will come from; and WHEREAS, everyone needs nutritious food to thrive, and people are working hard to provide for themselves and their families—yet over 330,000 individuals, including over 85,000 children, here in Orange County are food insecure; and
WHEREAS, the City of Lake Forest is committed to taking steps to combat hunger in every part of our community and to provide additional resources that those in City of Lake Forest need; and WHEREAS, the City of Lake Forest is committed to working with the Orange County Hunger Alliance in educating people about the role and importance of food banks and food care in addressing hunger and raising awareness of the need to devote more resources and attention to hunger issues; and WHEREAS, in the first half of 2024, Orange County Food Bank and Second Harvest Food Bank collectively recorded an average of 806,985 individual food distribution visits per month from our neighbors facing food insecurity; and WHEREAS, in the first half of 2024, Orange County Food Bank and Second Harvest Food Bank have collectively distributed 29,588,278 million pounds of food through its partner network of food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, senior centers, schools, colleges, universities, and other community organizations; and WHEREAS, Abound Food Care helps to facilitate the recovery over 25 million pounds of excess edible food in Orange County each year, reducing food waste and diverting that food to those who need it; and WHEREAS, the month of September has been designated “Hunger Action Month” in order to bring attention to food insecurity in our communities and to enlist the public in the movement to end hunger by taking action – including volunteering, donating, and advocating – to ensure every community, and everybody in it, has the food they need to thrive; and
WHEREAS, food banks and other organizations across the country, including the members of the Orange County Hunger Alliance, will host numerous events throughout the month of September to bring awareness and help end food insecurity in our local community;
NOW, THERFORE, the City Council of the City of Lake Forest do hereby proclaim September 2024 as HUNGER ACTION MONTH.

MARK TETTEMER
Mayor

SCOTT VOIGTS
Mayor Pro Tem
ROBERT PEQUEÑO
Council Member

DOUG CIRBO
Council Member

BENJAMIN YU
Council Member
Item: 2
12 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: 9/3/2024
DEPARTMENT: City Clerk
SUBJECT:

PROCLAMATION DECLARING SEPTEMBER 2024 AS WORLD ALZHEIMER'S

AWARENESS MONTH
RECOMMENDED ACTION(S):

Present a proclamation designating September 2024 as "World Alzheimer's Awareness Month."
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative brain disorder, robs individuals of their moments and leads to progressive mental and physical impairments. Currently, more than 164,000 residents in Orange County and over 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s Orange County has been Orange County’s center for Alzheimer’s resources and provides quality care and support services to local residents who are affected by Alzheimer’s disease or another related dementia. They also partner with local researchers to populate clinical trials to help find a cure. Staff recommends presenting a proclamation designating September 2024 as "World Alzheimer's Awareness Month" to an Alzheimer’s Orange County representative.

FISCAL IMPACT:

There is no fiscal impact associated with the recommended action.

ATTACHMENTS:

World Alzheimer's Awareness Month Proclamation
Initiated By: Ruthie Marroquin, Senior Office Specialist Submitted By: Lisa Berglund, City Clerk
Approved By: Debra Rose, City Manager
Item: 3
13 Attachment

Item: 3
14 CITY OF LAKE FOREST PROCLAMATION
World Alzheimer's Awareness Day – September 2024

Whereas, the Nation, State of California, and City of Lake Forest observe World Alzheimer's Month during the month of September; and
Whereas, Alzheimer's disease, a progressive neurodegenerative brain disorder, tragically robs individuals of their moments and leads to progressive mental and physical impairments; and
Whereas, more than 164,000 residents in Orange County and over 6 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease; and Whereas, Alzheimer’s disease is the third leading cause of death in Orange County; and
Whereas, the mission of Alzheimer’s Orange County is to provide hands-on care and support, information, referrals, education and resources for families in Orange County and surrounding areas who experience memory loss, Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

Now, therefore, the City Council of the City of Lake Forest, California, do hereby proclaim September 2024 as WORLD ALZHEIMER’S AWARENESS MONTH.

________________________

MARK TETTEMER

Mayor

_________________________ _________________________
SCOTT VOIGTS ROBERT PEQUEÑO Mayor Pro Tem Council Member

_____________________________ ______________________________

DOUG CIRBO BENJAMIN YU
Council Member Council Member
Item: 3
15 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: 9/3/2024
DEPARTMENT: City Clerk
SUBJECT:

MOTION TO WAIVE READING OF RESOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES
RECOMMENDED ACTION(S):

Said Ordinances and Resolutions which appear on the public agenda shall be determined to have been read by title and further reading waived.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

California Government Code 36934 allows titles of ordinances and resolutions to be waived.

FISCAL IMPACT:

There is minimal fiscal impact associated with the recommended action.

ATTACHMENTS:

None.

Submitted By: Lisa Berglund, MPA, City Clerk
Approved By: Debra Rose, City Manager
14 Item: 4
16 MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING

OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAKE FOREST

The regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Lake Forest held Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at the Lake Forest City Council Chambers, 100 Civic Center Drive, Lake Forest, California, was called to order at 5:30 p.m. with all members present.

ROLL CALL:

Council Members:

Doug Cirbo
Robert Pequeño
Benjamin Yu
Mayor Pro Tem: Scott Voigts
Mayor: Mark Tettemer

City Manager: Debra Rose
City Attorney: Matthew E. Richardson
City Clerk: Lisa Berglund

CLOSED SESSION

1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL- ANTICIPATED LITIGATION Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to Government Code section 54956.9(d)(2)
Number of potential cases: 1

ACTION: Closed session was conducted.

2. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS
Pursuant to Government Code section 54957.6
Agency Designated Representatives: Mayor and City Manager Unrepresented Employee(s): All Employees
ACTION: Closed session was conducted.

3. PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION
Pursuant to Government Code section 54957
Title: City Attorney

ACTION: Closed session was conducted.

INVOCATION: The Invocation was provided by Chaplain Jim Davis, Orange County Sheriff’s Department.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of our Country was led by Boy Scout Troop #628.

Item: 5
17 August 20, 2024 LAKE FOREST CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES Page 2 of 7 CLOSED SESSION REPORT: City Attorney Richardson had no action to report.

PRESENTATIONS: (Item No. 4)
MOTION: It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Voigts, seconded by Council Member Yu, to approve Presentation Item No. 4. The motion was carried by a vote of 5-0.

4. RECOGNITION OF 2024 FOURTH OF JULY PARADE VOLUNTEERS,

SPECIAL GROUPS, SPONSORS, AND AWARD WINNERS
City Manager Rose introduced this item and invited Senior Recreation Supervisor Wysocki to provide a presentation. No public comment was offered.

ACTION: 1. The volunteers who helped plan and produce the 2024 Lake Forest 4th of July Parade were recognized. 2. The special groups that provided police services, street closures and neighborhood cleanups, and ambulatory services were recognized. 3. The parade sponsors were recognized. 4. Awards to winning parade entries were presented.

PUBLIC COMMENTS:

Gary Tennison expressed concerns with left turn signals at Muirlands and Ridge Route, landscape maintenance at townhomes, and construction projects throughout the city.

Anthony Sanclair thanked the Building Department and the Code Enforcement Division for their responsiveness and professionalism.

Andrew O’Connor expressed concerns with Council Member Yu.

Kim Silber Riley requested that a monument be installed at Veteran’s Park memorializing the Space Force.

CONSENT CALENDAR: (Item Nos. 5 – 14)
MOTION: It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Voigts, seconded by Council Member Yu, to approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 5 – 6, 8 – 9, and 12 – 13. The motion was carried by a vote of 5-0.

5. MOTION TO WAIVE READING OF RESOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES ACTION: Said Ordinances and Resolutions which appeared on the public agenda were determined to have been read by title and further reading was waived.

6. MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL HELD ON JULY 16, 2024
ACTION: The minutes were approved as submitted.

Item: 5
18 August 20, 2024 LAKE FOREST CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES Page 3 of 7

8. CERTIFICATION OF WARRANT REGISTER
ACTION: The warrant register in the amount of $8,029,878.17 was approved.

9. CERTIFICATION OF WARRANT REGISTER
ACTION: The warrant register in the amount of $8,074,744.11 was approved.

12. NOTICE OF COMPLETION FOR STRUCTURAL STEEL PATIO COVER AT LAKE FOREST CIVIC CENTER SENIOR CENTER (PW 2022-13)
ACTION: 1. Zuma Construction Group, Inc. was found to have completed construction of Lake Forest Civic Center Senior Center Structural Steel Patio Cover (PW 2022-13). 2. The Notice of Completion was approved and the Mayor was authorized to execute the document on behalf of the City. 3. The City Clerk was authorized to submit Notice of Completion for recordation to the Office of the County Recorder of Orange County within fifteen days of the City Council approval, as required by Section 9204 of the California Civil Code. 4. Staff was authorized to release any unencumbered retention in accordance with California law.

13. RESPONSE TO THE ORANGE COUNTY GRAND JURY REGARDING

RECYCLABLES AND ORGANIC WASTE, AND E-BIKES
ACTION: The City Council approved and authorized the City Manager to submit the City’s responses to the Orange County Grand Jury Reports regarding recyclables and organic waste, and E-bikes.

ITEMS PULLED FOR DISCUSSION (Item Nos. 7, 10 – 11, and 14)

7. QUARTERLY TREASURER'S REPORT - QUARTER ENDED JUNE 30, 2024 Council Member Cirbo asked for clarification on the City’s investment strategies.

Finance Director Shirah provided clarification. No public comment was offered.

ACTION: The report was received and filed.

10. AWARD CONTRACT FOR VIDEO CONFERENCE SYSTEM UPGRADE

PROJECT
Andrew O’Connor offered public comment and expressed concerns with the cost of the contract.

MOTION: It was moved by Council Member Yu, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Voigts, to: 1. Approve the contract documents for Video Conference System Item: 5
19 August 20, 2024 LAKE FOREST CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES Page 4 of 7 Upgrade Project. 2. Award a contract in the amount of $283,215.15 to Golden Star Technology, Inc. 3. Authorize the Mayor to sign, and the City Clerk to attest, the contract with Golden Star Technology, Inc, substantially in the form attached. The motion was carried by a vote of 5-0.

11. AWARD CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT FOR RANCHO PARKWAY & LAKE FOREST DRIVE STREET IMPROVEMENTS (24T05), JERONIMO ROAD & LAKE FOREST DRIVE (24T06), AND LOS ALISOS BOULEVARD &
ROCKFIELD BOULEVARD INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS (24T07)
Andrew O’Connor offered public comment and expressed concerns with the cost of the contract.

MOTION: It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Voigts, seconded by Council Member Yu, to: 1. Approve contract documents for construction of Rancho Parkway & Lake Forest Drive Street Improvements (24T05), Jeronimo Road & Lake Forest Drive (24T06), and Los Alisos Boulevard & Rockfield Boulevard Intersection Improvements (24T07). 2. Disqualify the apparent low bidder, Elecnor Belco Electric, Inc., for having interests as both a prime contractor and subcontractor on another bid for this project. 3. Adopt Resolution entitled, “A

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAKE FOREST, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE 2023-2030 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN; AMENDING APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-25. 4. Award a contract in the amount of $1,889,257.30 to the second lowest bidder, All American Asphalt. 5. Reject all other bids received and authorize return of the bid bonds upon receipt of the executed contract documents from All American Asphalt. 6. Authorize the Mayor to sign, and the City Clerk to attest the contract with All American Asphalt. The motion was carried by a vote of 5-0.

14. THIRD AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH KAYUGA SOLUTION, INC., FOR ASSET MANAGEMENT PROGRAM AND SERVICES
Andrew O’Connor offered public comment and expressed concerns with the cost of the agreement. Mayor Tettemer expressed opposition to the agreement.

Council questions were asked and answered.

MOTION: It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Voigts, seconded by Council Member Yu, to: 1. Approve the Third Amendment to the Professional Consultant Services Agreement with Kayuga Solution, Inc. ("Kayuga") for Asset Management Program Project and Services. 2. Authorize the Mayor to sign, and the City Clerk to attest to the Third Amendment, substantially in the form attached. The motion was carried by a vote of 4-1, with Mayor Tettemer voting no.

PUBLIC HEARING(S): (Item No. 15)
Item: 5
20 August 20, 2024 LAKE FOREST CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES Page 5 of 7

15. PUBLIC HEARING TO SET THE APPEAL AND IMPOUNDMENT FEES

RELATING TO UNPERMITTED SIDEWALK VENDORS
Mayor Tettemer opened the public hearing. City Manager Rose introduced this item and invited Senior Code Enforcement Officer Karuga to provide a presentation. Andrew O’Connor offered public comment and expressed concerns with enforcement of the municipal code related to sidewalk vendors.

Council questions were asked and answered. Mayor Tettemer closed the public hearing.

MOTION: It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Voigts, seconded by Council Member Yu, to: 1. Conduct the noticed public hearing. 2. Adopt a Resolution entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAKE

FOREST, CALIFORNIA, SETTING THE AMOUNT OF APPEAL AND

IMPOUNDMENT FEES RELATING TO SIDEWALK VENDORS PURSUANT TO LAKE FOREST MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 5.17.110. The motion was carried by a vote of 5-0.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS: (Item Nos. 16 – 18)

16. UPDATE ON THE CITY OF LAKE FOREST'S STRATEGIC ECONOMIC

INVESTMENT PROGRAM
City Manager Rose introduced this item and invited Economic Development/Housing Manager Grijalva to provide a presentation. Andrew O’Connor offered public comment expressing concerns with the way funds are being spent. Council questions were asked and answered.

MOTION: It was moved by Council Member Yu, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Voigts, to: 1. Direct staff to close out the Catalytic Converter Theft Mitigation Programs. 2. Direct staff to present a final SEIP spending plan to the Audit Committee. The motion was carried by a vote of 5-0.

17. KICK-OFF MEETING WITH KOSMONT COMPANIES FOR SHOPPING

CENTER ANALYSIS CONSULTING SERVICES
City Manager Rose introduced this item and invited Economic Development/Housing Manager Grijalva to introduce President of Kosmont Companies Ken Hira. Mr. Hira provided a presentation. Andrew O’Connor offered public comment and expressed concerns with the cost of the project.

Council questions were asked and answered.

ACTION: The presentation was received and filed.

Item: 5
21 August 20, 2024 LAKE FOREST CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES Page 6 of 7

18. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM UPDATE
City Manager Rose introduced this item and invited Principal Civil Engineer Mokarram to provide a presentation. Andrew O’Connor offered public comment and expressed concerns with the logistics of several projects. Council questions were asked and answered.

MOTION: The update was received and filed.

CITY MANAGER'S REPORT: No report was provided.

CITY COUNCIL COMMENTS:

Council Member Cirbo: Council Member Cirbo reported on his attendance at the ACC-OC Mayors and Council Members
Roundtable Discussion, Summer Concert in the Park,
National Night Out, and the Pacific Symphony
Orchestra concert.

Council Member Pequeño: Council Member Pequeño thanked staff for all their hard work. He reported on his attendance at National
Night, Summer Concert in the Park, the Pacific
Symphony Orchestra concert, and homeless
networking forum.

Council Member Yu: Council Member Yu reported on his attendance at National Night Out, Summer Concert in the Park, and
ribbon cutting ceremonies for Mathnasium and a
restaurant. He reminded everyone to not purchase
tacos from street vendors.

Mayor Pro Tem Voigts: Mayor Pro Tem Voigts reported on his attendance at Summer Concert in the Park, National Night Out, and
the Pacific Symphony Orchestra concert. He thanked
staff for their efforts at National Night Out.

Mayor Tettemer: Mayor Tettemer presented a photo of the Pacific Symphony Orchestra concert with the orchestra’s
conductor and Council members. He commended
staff for their efforts in organizing the event. He also reported on his attendance at the ribbon cutting
ceremony for Mathnasium, a tour of the Success
Center at the Orange County Rescue Mission, an
informational meeting at Second Harvest Food bank,
and an Orange County Fire Authority press event for a
display of new helicopters.

Item: 5
22 August 20, 2024 LAKE FOREST CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES Page 7 of 7 ADJOURNMENT: The Regular Meeting of the City Council was adjourned at 9:12 p.m.

Respectfully submitted:

APPROVED:

LISA BERGLUND MARK TETTEMER

CITY CLERK MAYOR
Item: 5
23 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: 9/3/2024
DEPARTMENT: City Manager
SUBJECT:

AMENDMENT TO CLASSIFICATION PLAN AND COMPENSATION
SCHEDULE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-25
RECOMMENDED ACTION(S):

1. Adopt Resolution entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF

THE CITY OF LAKE FOREST, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING A REVISED CLASSIFICATION PLAN AND COMPENSATION SCHEDULE.

2. Adopt Resolution entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAKE FOREST, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE 2023-2025 OPERATING BUDGET AND APPROPRIATIONS FOR FY 2024-25.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

The Lake Forest Classification Plan and Compensation Schedule (“Classification Plan”) identifies salary ranges for City job classifications and lists the number of budgeted full-time positions. Revisions to the Classification Plan are designed to meet the current needs of the City while also providing flexibility to address evolving work demands in the future.

The proposed Classification Plan for Fiscal Year (‘FY”) 2024-25 includes two new full-time limited term (2 years) Code Enforcement Officer positions (Attachment 1). The additional Code Enforcement Officer positions are intended to address issues which occur after business hours, such as noise complaints and illegal street vending.

The estimated additional cost to implement this updated plan, including the salaries, benefits, and other fringe benefits associated with the two proposed positions, is $260,000 for the remainder of the fiscal year. Staff recommends the City Council adopt the following resolutions: 1) Resolution adopting a revised Classification Plan and Compensation Schedule; and 2) Resolution amending the 2023-2025 Operating Budget and appropriations for FY 2024-25.

Item: 6
24 3
2 5
3 BACKGROUND:

The City evaluates the organization and makes necessary adjustments based on emerging issues or opportunities. Revisions to the Classification Plan are designed to meet the current needs of the City, while providing flexibility to assess evolving work demands in the future. Staff routinely analyzes the Classification Plan when vacancies occur and with the adoption of City’s biennial budget.

DISCUSSION:

The Community Development Department Code Enforcement Division is currently staffed with 3.5 employees. In August 2022, a part-time Code Enforcement Officer was hired to enforce the municipal code on Saturdays and Sundays. While this addition has helped address some code enforcement cases, it has not been sufficient in light of the increasing volume and complexity of issues which occur after-hours.

Since 2010, the City's population has increased from 77,395 to 85,811, along with a rise in the number of households. This growth has led to a substantial increase in enforcement cases and calls for service. Additionally, over 70% of homes in Lake Forest were built more than 35 years ago, creating challenges as these properties continue to age.

The combination of a growing population, and emerging issues such as illegal marijuana dispensaries, massage establishments, and unlicensed food vendors has made it difficult for staff to manage the increase in Code Enforcement violations. These complex problems require dedicated attention, further stretching available resources.

The Ask Lake Forest (“ALF”) system allows the public to submit online “tickets” to report issues and concerns. The number of ALF tickets for Code Enforcement issues submitted over the last four years has increased by approximately 81% as shown below.

Table 1 Code Enforcement Requests Submitted via Ask Lake Forest 2021 2022 2023 2024*
261 329 405 472
*Jan-Aug 2024
Staff recommend adding two Limited-term Code Enforcement Officers to the Classification Plan. The limited-term positions are intended for a fixed duration, and may last for up to, but no more than, 48 months. Limited-term employees receive the same benefits, rights, and privileges as regular full-time employees, with the sole distinction being the predetermined length of their employment.

Item: 6
25 3
2 5
3 The Code Enforcement Officers are envisioned to work four 10-hour days per week on an evening/night schedule (e.g., 3PM to 1AM or 5PM to 3AM). This provides consistent Code Enforcement services during hours that current staff cannot consistently cover via overtime.

This increase in staffing will ensure a late-night code enforcement presence in Lake Forest, allowing for better management of issues such unlicensed sidewalk vendors, noise complaints and outdoor restaurant violations, that frequently occur outside of regular business hours. The additional officers will also provide the needed personnel to respond to urgent matters affecting public safety in both commercial and residential areas. This enhanced coverage is expected to lead to faster response times, more effective deterrence of violations, and improved overall compliance with City regulations.

The proposed revisions to the City’s Classification Plan would add two full-time limited term positions, increasing the total number of authorized full-time positions to 73 for FY 2024-25. These changes to the Compensation Plan provide the City with the flexibility to fill authorized positions as needed, without requiring that all positions be filled immediately.

Staff is recommending the City Council adopt the following resolutions:
1) Resolution adopting a revised Classification Plan and Compensation Schedule; and 2) Resolution amending the 2023-2025 Operating Budget and appropriations for FY 2024-25.
______________
FISCAL IMPACT:

If adopted, the proposed budget resolution would increase general fund appropriations by $260,000 in FY 2024-25. Budget would be allocated for the remainder of the limited term in the next biennial budget cycle.

ATTACHMENTS:

1. Revised Classification Plan and Compensation Schedule FY 2024-25

2. Resolution Adopting a Revised Classification Plan

3. Resolution Amending the 2023-2025 Operating Budget and Appropriations for FY 2024-25.

Initiated By: Shelly Cisneros, Human Resources Manager
Submitted By: Keith Neves, Assistant City Manager
Approved By: Debra Rose, City Manager
Item: 6
26 ATTACHMENT 1
Item: 6
27 City Manager 1 $295,146 7/1/2024 6/18/2024
Assistant City Manager 83 $15,715 $20,430 1 2024-XX
Deputy City Manager 81 $19,445 1 2024-XX
Director of Public Works/City Engineer 79 $18,508 1 2024-XX Director of Community Development 78 $18,057 1 2024-XX
Director of Finance 78 $18,057 1 2024-XX
Director of Management Services 78 $18,057 0 2024-XX
Director of Community Services 75 $16,768 0 2024-XX
Director of Economic Development 73 $12,277 $15,960 0 2024-XX Assistant Director of Community Development 71 $11,685 $15,191 1 2024-XX Engineering Services Manager/Assistant City
Engineer 71 $11,685 $15,191 1 2024-XX
Planning Manager 69 $14,459 0 2024-XX
Assistant Director of Finance 68 $14,106 1 2024-XX
Information Technology Manager 68 $14,106 1 2024-XX
Human Resources Manager 67 $13,762 1 2024-XX
Traffic Engineering Manager 67 $13,762 1 2024-XX
Principal Civil Engineer 65 $13,099 2 2024-XX
Accounting Manager 64 1 2024-XX
City Clerk 64 1 2024-XX
Public Works Maintenance Manager 64 1 2024-XX
Facilities Manager 63 $9,591 $12,468 1 2024-XX
Monthly
Range
Maximum
$12,779
$12,779
$12,779
$9,830
$9,830
$9,830
$13,890
$11,122
$10,851
$10,851
$10,586
$12,898
Resolution # Council
Meeting Date
$14,958
# of Pos Auth
$10,586
$10,076
Full Time Job Classification* Salary Grade
Classification Plan and Compensation Schedule
FY 2024-25
Effective September 3, 2024
$14,237
$13,890
$13,890
Monthly Range
Minimum Annual Effective Date
if Different
Item: 6
28 Monthly
Range
Maximum
Resolution # Council
Meeting Date# of Pos AuthFull Time Job Classification* Salary Grade Classification Plan and Compensation Schedule
FY 2024-25
Effective September 3, 2024
Monthly Range
Minimum Annual Effective Date
if Different
Recreation Manager 62 $9,357 $12,164 2 2024-XX
Assistant to the City Manager 61 $9,128 $11,867 1 2024-XX Economic Development/Housing Manager 61 $9,128 $11,867 1 2024-XX Public Safety Manager 61 $9,128 $11,867 1 2024-XX
Principal Planner 60 $8,906 $11,577 0 2024-XX
Communications & Marketing Manager 59 $11,295 1 2024-XX Accounting Supervisor 57 $10,751 0 2024-XX
Administrative Services Manager 57 $10,751 1 2024-XX
Environmental Manager 57 $10,751 1 2024-XX
Senior Planner 56 $8,068 $10,489 3 2024-XX
Senior Financial Analyst 55 $10,233 0 2024-XX
Senior Management Analyst 55 $10,233 2 2024-XX
Code Enforcement Supervisor 53 $9,740 1 2024-XX
Economic Development Manager 53 $9,740 0 2024-XX
Facilities Supervisor 53 $9,740 1 2024-XX
Housing Manager 53 $9,740 0 2024-XX
Information Technology Analyst 53 $9,740 1 2024-XX
Public Works Supervisor 53 $9,740 0 2024-XX
Senior Communications & Marketing Analyst 53 $9,740 1 2024-XX Senior Recreation Supervisor 52 3 2024-XX
Senior Accountant 51 0 2024-XX
$9,502
$9,270
$7,309
$7,131
$7,492
$7,492
$7,492
$7,492
$7,492
$7,492
$8,270
$8,270
$8,270
$7,871
$7,871
$7,492
$8,688
Item: 6
29 Monthly
Range
Maximum
Resolution # Council
Meeting Date# of Pos AuthFull Time Job Classification* Salary Grade Classification Plan and Compensation Schedule
FY 2024-25
Effective September 3, 2024
Monthly Range
Minimum Annual Effective Date
if Different
Senior Landscape Administrator 51 1 2024-XX
Street Maintenance Administrator 51 1 2024-XX
Environmental Compliance Inspector 49 $6,787 $8,824 1 2024-XX Finance Analyst 49 $6,787 $8,824 1 2024-XX
GIS/Applications Analyst 49 $6,787 $8,824 1 2024-XX
Management Analyst 49 $6,787 $8,824 3 2024-XX
Associate Planner 49 $8,824 1 2024-XX
Communications & Marketing Analyst 49 $8,824 1 2024-XX
Recreation Supervisor 48 3 2024-XX
Accountant 47 1 2024-XX
Landscape Administrator 47 2 2024-XX
Senior Code Enforcement Officer 47 1 2024-XX
Senior Communications & Marketing Specialist 47 1 2024-XX Assistant City Clerk 46 $6,303 $8,194 1 2024-XX
Executive Assistant 46 $6,303 $8,194 1 2024-XX
Communications & Marketing Specialist 45 0 2024-XX
Information Technology Specialist 45 0 2024-XX
Management Assistant 45 2 2024-XX
Assistant Planner 44 $7,799 0 2024-XX
Records Coordinator 44 $7,799 1 2024-XX
Senior Accounting Technician 44 $7,799 2 2024-XX
$8,398
$8,398
$8,398
$8,398
$7,994
$9,270
$9,270
$8,608
$5,999
$7,994
$7,994$6,149
$6,149
$5,999
$5,999
$6,622
$6,460
$6,460
$6,460
$6,460
$6,149
$7,131
$7,131
$6,787
$6,787
Item: 6
30 Monthly
Range
Maximum
Resolution # Council
Meeting Date# of Pos AuthFull Time Job Classification* Salary Grade Classification Plan and Compensation Schedule
FY 2024-25
Effective September 3, 2024
Monthly Range
Minimum Annual Effective Date
if Different
Code Enforcement Officer 43 $7,609 3 2024-XX
GIS/Applications Technician 43 $7,609 0 2024-XX
Community Outreach Specialist 43 1 2024-XX
Engineering Technician 42 0 2024-XX
Senior Audio-Visual Technician 41 $5,571 1 2024-XX
Accounting Technician 40 0 2024-XX
Human Resources Technician 40 0 2024-XX
Senior Building Permit Technician 40 0 2024-XX
Senior Permit Technician 40 1 2024-XX
Engineering Aide 39 0 2024-XX
Management Aide 39 1 2024-XX
Planning Aide 39 0 2024-XX
Administrative Specialist 38 2 2024-XX
Building Permit Technician 38 0 2024-XX
Facilities Maintenance Specialist 38 1 2024-XX
Permit Technician 38 0 2024-XX
Audio-Visual Technician 37 0 2024-XX
Community Preservation Technician 37 0 2024-XX
Records Specialist 36 0 2024-XX
Senior Office Specialist 32 $4,461 0 2024-XX
Receptionist/Cashier 30 $4,246 0 2024-XX
$6,561
$6,561
$6,401
$5,799
$5,519
$6,893
$6,893
$6,725
$6,725
$6,725
$6,725
$7,065
$7,065
$7,065
$6,893
$7,609
$7,423
$4,924
$5,173
$5,173
$5,173
$5,173
$5,047
$5,047
$5,435
$5,435
$5,435
$5,302
$5,302
$5,302
$5,853
$5,853
$5,853
$5,710
$5,435
$7,242
$7,065
Item: 6
31 Monthly
Range
Maximum
Resolution # Council
Meeting Date# of Pos AuthFull Time Job Classification* Salary Grade Classification Plan and Compensation Schedule
FY 2024-25
Effective September 3, 2024
Monthly Range
Minimum Annual Effective Date
if Different
Office Specialist 28 $4,041 0 2024-XX
*Classifications listed above can be filled on a part time basis at the hourly equivalent of the monthly salary listed 73 Part Time Job Classification Pay Grade Hourly Step C Hourly Step D Hourly Step E Hourly Step F Hourly Step G Resolution # H17 $39.72 $41.71 $43.80 $45.99 $48.29 2024-XX
H16 $37.83 $39.72 $41.71 $43.80 $45.99 2024-XX
H15 $36.03 $37.83 $39.72 $41.71 $43.80 2024-XX
H14 $34.31 $36.03 $37.83 $39.72 $41.71 2024-XX
H13 $32.68 $34.31 $36.03 $37.83 $39.72 2024-XX
Recreation Coordinator H12 $31.12 $32.68 $34.31 $36.03 $37.83 2024-XX H11 $29.64 $31.12 $32.68 $34.31 $36.03 2024-XX
H10 $28.23 $29.64 $31.12 $32.68 $34.31 2024-XX
H9 $26.89 $28.23 $29.64 $31.12 $32.68 2024-XX
H8 $25.61 $26.89 $28.23 $29.64 $31.12 2024-XX
Parking Control Officer H7 $24.39 $25.61 $26.89 $28.23 $29.64 2024-XX Senior Intern H6 $23.23 $24.39 $25.61 $26.89 $28.23 2024-XX Recreation Specialist H5 $22.12 $23.23 $24.39 $25.61 $26.89 2024-XX H4 $21.07 $22.12 $23.23 $24.39 $25.61 2024-XX
Intern; Senior Recreation Leader; Park Attendant H3 $20.07 $21.07 $22.12 $23.23 $24.39 2024-XX H2 $19.11 $20.07 $21.07 $22.12 $23.23 2024-XX
Recreation Leader H1 $18.20 $19.11 $20.07 $21.07 $22.12 2024-XX $5,253
$25.61
$24.39
$23.23
$22.12
$21.07
$20.07
$36.03
$34.31
$32.68
$31.12
Hourly Step A Hourly Step B
$19.11
$18.20
$17.33
$16.50
$37.83
$36.03
$34.31
$32.68
$31.12
$29.64
$28.23
$26.89
$25.61
$24.39
$23.23
$22.12
$21.07
$20.07
$19.11
$18.20
$17.33
$29.64
$28.23
$26.89
Item: 6
32 5
2 7
3 9
ATTACHMENT 2
Item: 6
33 5
2 7
3 9
RESOLUTION NO. _____

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE

CITY OF LAKE FOREST, CALIFORNIA,

ADOPTING A REVISED CLASSIFICATION PLAN

AND COMPENSATION SCHEDULE

THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAKE FOREST DOES
HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:

WHEREAS, the Personnel Rules and Regulations for the City of Lake Forest provides for adoption, by resolution, of the Classification Plan and Compensation Schedule; and
WHEREAS, the Classification Plan and Compensation Schedule has been updated to add two (2) classifications; and
WHEREAS, the City Council’s adoption of the Classification Plan and Compensation Schedule will ensure compliance with the applicable state regulations that require the disclosure of position classifications and the corresponding compensation; and
WHEREAS, it is necessary to adopt the Classification Plan and Compensation Schedule by resolution.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAKE

FOREST, CALIFORNIA, DOES HEREBY RESOLVE, DETERMINE AND
ORDER AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. The revised Classification Plan and Compensation Schedule has been updated to add two (2) classifications; attached hereto as Attachment A incorporated herein by this reference, is hereby adopted with an effective date of September 3, 2024.

PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this ___ day of _____, 2024 by the following vote, to wit:
_____________________

MARK TETTEMER
MAYOR
Item: 6
34 5
2 7
3 9
ATTEST:
______________________________

LISA BERGLUND

CITY CLERK
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________

MATTHEW RICHARDSON

CITY ATTORNEY

STATE OF CALIFORNIA)

COUNTY OF ORANGE ) SS

CITY OF LAKE FOREST )
I, Lisa Berglund, City Clerk of the City of Lake Forest, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution No.__ was duly passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the Lake Forest City Council on the ___ day of _____, 2024 by the following vote, to wit:

AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
_______________________

LISA BERGLUND

CITY CLERK
Item: 6
35 5
2 7
3 9

City Manager 1 $295,1467/1/2024 6/18/2024Assistant City Manager 83 $15,715$20,430 1 2024-XXDeputy City Manager 81 $19,445 1 2024-XXDirector of Public Works/City Engineer 79 $18,508 1 2024-XXDirector of Community Development 78 $18,057 1 2024-XXDirector of Finance 78 $18,057 1 2024-XXDirector of Management Services 78 $18,057 0 2024-XXDirector of Community Services 75 $16,768 0 2024-XXDirector of Economic Development 73 $12,277$15,960 0 2024-XXAssistant Director of Community Development 71 $11,685$15,191 1 2024-XXEngineering Services Manager/Assistant City Engineer 71 $11,685$15,191 1 2024-XXPlanning Manager 69 $14,459 0 2024-XXAssistant Director of Finance 68 $14,106 1 2024-XXInformation Technology Manager 68 $14,106 1 2024-XXHuman Resources Manager 67 $13,762 1 2024-XXTraffic Engineering Manager 67 $13,762 1 2024-XXPrincipal Civil Engineer 65 $13,099 2 2024-XXAccounting Manager 64 1 2024-XXCity Clerk 64 1 2024-XXPublic Works Maintenance Manager 64 1 2024-XXFacilities Manager 63 $9,591 $12,468 1 2024-XXRecreation Manager 62 $9,357 $12,164 2 2024-XXAssistant to the City Manager 61 $9,128 $11,867 1 2024-XXEconomic Development/Housing Manager 61 $9,128 $11,867 1 2024-XXPublic Safety Manager 61 $9,128 $11,867 1 2024-XXPrincipal Planner 60 $8,906 $11,577 0 2024-XXCommunications & Marketing Manager 59 $11,295 1 2024-XXAccounting Supervisor 57 $10,751 0 2024-XXAdministrative Services Manager 57 $10,751 1 2024-XXEnvironmental Manager 57 $10,751 1 2024-XXSenior Planner 56 $8,068 $10,489 3 2024-XXSenior Financial Analyst 55 $10,233 0 2024-XXSenior Management Analyst 55 $10,233 2 2024-XXCode Enforcement Supervisor 53 $9,740 1 2024-XXEconomic Development Manager 53 $9,740 0 2024-XXFacilities Supervisor 53 $9,740 1 2024-XXHousing Manager 53 $9,740 0 2024-XXInformation Technology Analyst 53 $9,740 1 2024-XXPublic Works Supervisor 53 $9,740 0 2024-XXSenior Communications & Marketing Analyst 53 $9,740 1 2024-XXSenior Recreation Supervisor 52 3 2024-XXSenior Accountant 51 0 2024-XXSenior Landscape Administrator 51 1 2024-XXStreet Maintenance Administrator 51 1 2024-XXEnvironmental Compliance Inspector 49 $6,787 $8,824 1 2024-XXFinance Analyst 49 $6,787 $8,824 1 2024-XXGIS/Applications Analyst 49 $6,787 $8,824 1 2024-XXManagement Analyst 49 $6,787 $8,824 3 2024-XXAssociate Planner 49 $8,824 1 2024-XXCommunications & Marketing Analyst 49 $8,824 1 2024-XXRecreation Supervisor 48 3 2024-XXAccountant 47 1 2024-XXLandscape Administrator 47 2 2024-XXSenior Code Enforcement Officer 47 1 2024-XXSenior Communications & Marketing Specialist 47 1 2024-XXAssistant City Clerk 46 $6,303 $8,194 1 2024-XXExecutive Assistant 46 $6,303 $8,194 1 2024-XXCommunications & Marketing Specialist 45 0 2024-XXInformation Technology Specialist 45 0 2024-XXManagement Assistant 45 2 2024-XXAssistant Planner 44 $7,799 0 2024-XXRecords Coordinator 44 $7,799 1 2024-XXSenior Accounting Technician 44 $7,799 2 2024-XXCode Enforcement Officer 43 $7,609 3 2024-XXGIS/Applications Technician 43 $7,609 0 2024-XXCommunity Outreach Specialist 43 1 2024-XXEngineering Technician 42 0 2024-XXSenior Audio-Visual Technician 41 $5,571 1 2024-XXAccounting Technician 40 0 2024-XXHuman Resources Technician 40 0 2024-XXSenior Building Permit Technician 40 0 2024-XXSenior Permit Technician 40 1 2024-XXEngineering Aide 39 0 2024-XXManagement Aide 39 1 2024-XXPlanning Aide 39 0 2024-XXAdministrative Specialist 38 2 2024-XXBuilding Permit Technician 38 0 2024-XXFacilities Maintenance Specialist 38 1 2024-XXPermit Technician 38 0 2024-XXAudio-Visual Technician 37 0 2024-XXCommunity Preservation Technician 37 0 2024-XXRecords Specialist 36 0 2024-XXSenior Office Specialist 32 $4,461 0 2024-XXReceptionist/Cashier 30 $4,246 0 2024-XXOffice Specialist 28 $4,041 0 2024-XX*Classifications listed above can be filled on a part time basis at the hourly equivalent of the monthly salary listed73 $6,561$6,561$6,401$5,799$5,519$5,253
$6,893$6,893$6,725$6,725$6,725$6,725
$7,065$7,065$7,065$6,893
$8,398$8,398$8,398$8,398
$7,609$7,423
$7,994
$4,924
Monthly Range Maximum
$12,779$12,779$12,779
$9,502$9,270$9,270$9,270
$8,608
$5,173$5,173$5,173$5,173$5,047$5,047
$5,435$5,435$5,435$5,302$5,302$5,302
$5,999$5,853$5,853$5,853$5,710
$5,435
$7,994$7,994$6,149$6,149$5,999$5,999
$7,242$7,065
$6,622$6,460$6,460$6,460$6,460
$6,149
$7,309$7,131$7,131$7,131
$6,787$6,787
$7,492$7,492$7,492$7,492$7,492$7,492
$8,270$8,270$8,270
$7,871$7,871$7,492
$9,830$9,830$9,830
$8,688
$13,890
$11,122$10,851$10,851$10,586
$12,898
Resolution #Council Meeting Date
$14,958
# of Pos Auth
$10,586$10,076
Full Time Job Classification* Salary Grade
Classification Plan and Compensation ScheduleFY 2024-25Effective September 3, 2024 $14,237$13,890$13,890
Monthly Range Minimum Annual Effective Date if Different Attachment A
Item: 6
36 5
2 7
3 9
Part Time Job Classification Pay Grade Hourly Step CHourly Step DHourly Step EHourly Step FHourly Step GResolution #H17 $39.72 $41.71 $43.80 $45.99 $48.29 2024-XXH16 $37.83 $39.72 $41.71 $43.80 $45.99 2024-XXH15 $36.03 $37.83 $39.72 $41.71 $43.80 2024-XXH14 $34.31 $36.03 $37.83 $39.72 $41.71 2024-XXH13 $32.68 $34.31 $36.03 $37.83 $39.72 2024-XXRecreation Coordinator H12 $31.12 $32.68 $34.31 $36.03 $37.83 2024-XXH11 $29.64 $31.12 $32.68 $34.31 $36.03 2024-XXH10 $28.23 $29.64 $31.12 $32.68 $34.31 2024-XXH9 $26.89 $28.23 $29.64 $31.12 $32.68 2024-XXH8 $25.61 $26.89 $28.23 $29.64 $31.12 2024-XXParking Control Officer H7 $24.39 $25.61 $26.89 $28.23 $29.64 2024-XXSenior Intern H6 $23.23 $24.39 $25.61 $26.89 $28.23 2024-XXRecreation Specialist H5 $22.12 $23.23 $24.39 $25.61 $26.89 2024-XXH4 $21.07 $22.12 $23.23 $24.39 $25.61 2024-XXIntern; Senior Recreation Leader; Park Attendant H3 $20.07 $21.07 $22.12 $23.23 $24.39 2024-XXH2 $19.11 $20.07 $21.07 $22.12 $23.23 2024-XXRecreation Leader H1 $18.20 $19.11 $20.07 $21.07 $22.12 2024-XX $19.11$18.20$17.33$16.50
$37.83$36.03$34.31$32.68$31.12$29.64$28.23$26.89$25.61$24.39$23.23$22.12$21.07$20.07$19.11$18.20$17.33 $29.64$28.23$26.89$25.61$24.39$23.23$22.12$21.07$20.07
$36.03$34.31$32.68$31.12
Hourly Step AHourly Step B
Item: 6
37 ATTACHMENT 3
Item: 6
38 RESOLUTION NO. 2024-

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE

CITY OF LAKE FOREST, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING
THE 2023-2025 OPERATING BUDGET; AMENDING
APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-25
WHEREAS, the 2023-2025 Operating Budget was adopted by the City Council on June 20, 2023; and
WHEREAS, the appropriations for Fiscal Year 2024-25 were adopted by the City Council on June 4, 2024;
WHEREAS, modifications are now required as a result of changes during Fiscal Year 2024-25.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAKE

FOREST DOES HEREBY RESOLVE, DETERMINE, FIND AND ORDER AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1. The City Council’s adoption of this Resolution is not a project within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act. Specifically, the City’s adoption of the Resolution is an administrative and fiscal function of the City that does not commit the City to any specific project or course of action. (State CEQA Guidelines, sections 15378(b)(4) & (b)(5).) Thus, no environmental review of the Resolution is required. The City Council hereby directs staff to prepare, execute and file with the Orange County Clerk a Notice of Exemption within five working days of the adoption of this Resolution.

Section 2. The General Fund is amended to increase appropriations for Fiscal Year 2024-25 as demonstrated in Exhibit A.

Section 3. The Director of Finance is hereby authorized to move appropriations between programs within program area budgets in concurrence with Department Directors.

Section 4. The City Manager is hereby authorized to transfer appropriations from one program area to another or between funds within the Operating Budget with notification to the City Council Audit Committee.

Section 5. The City Manager is hereby authorized to transfer appropriations from a capital improvement project to another existing project within the adopted Capital Improvement Program with notification to the City Council Audit Committee.

Item: 6
39 Section 6. The City Clerk shall attest as to the adoption and execution of this Resolution and cause the same to be maintained in the permanent records of the City.

PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 3rd day of September
2024, by the following vote, to wit:

ATTEST:

MARK TETTEMER
MAYOR

LISA BERGLUND

CITY CLERK
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

MATTHEW RICHARDSON

CITY ATTORNEY
Item: 6
40 STATE OF CALIFORNIA )

COUNTY OF ORANGE ) SS

CITY OF LAKE FOREST )
I, Lisa Berglund, City Clerk of the City of Lake Forest, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 2024- was duly passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the Lake Forest City Council on the 3rd day of September 2024, by the following vote, to wit:

AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

LISA BERGLUND

CITY CLERK
Item: 6
41 EXHIBIT A
AMENDMENT TO 2023-2025

OPERATING BUDGET
FISCAL YEAR 2024-25

APPROPRIATIONS
General Fund Operating Appropriations
Expenditure
Major Program
Area
Current
Budget
Increase
(Decrease) Amended
Budget
Management and
Support 10,354,331 88,000 $10,442,331
Planning, Engineering,
Building & Safety 7,331,153 172,000 7,503,153
TOTAL $17,685,484 $260,000 $17,945,484
Item: 6
42 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: 9/03/2024
DEPARTMENT: Management Services
SUBJECT:

FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH BRIGHTLIFE DESIGNS

FOR SEASONAL AND YEAR-ROUND LIGHTING SERVICES
RECOMMENDED ACTION(S):

1. Approve the First Amendment to the Agreement with Brightlife Designs, LLC for Seasonal and Year-Round Lighting Services.

2. Authorize the Mayor to sign, and the City Clerk to attest, the First Amendment to the Agreement with Brightlife Designs, LLC, substantially in the form attached.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

The City displays seasonal and year-round lighting on El Toro Road from the I- 5/El Toro Road interchange to Muirlands Boulevard. Additionally, year-round lighting is provided at The Arbors and on the Civic Center Campus signature Tree. Lighting installation and maintenance services are currently provided by Brightlife Designs, LLC (“Brightlife”). The Professional Consultant Services Agreement with Brightlife (“Agreement”) was entered into on September 29, 2021, and includes a three-year term that is set to expire on September 15, 2024.

Strategic Plan Initiative SP #52 of the City’s Strategic Business Plan (“Strategic Plan”) calls for expanded seasonal lighting options. Based on the upcoming term expiration of the Agreement and the directive to expand seasonal lighting, staff presented options created by Brightlife to the City Council for consideration on June 18, 2024, and again on July 16, 2024. On July 16, 2024, the City Council directed staff to move forward with Option #2 (one of several options presented by staff), which includes additional lit trees and large wreaths on The Arbor structures. The City Council also directed staff to identify areas of holiday lighting expansion in the northeast area of the City. Staff identified the Alton Parkway monument sign as an ideal location to add non-illuminated garland and a professionally designed wreath, as no electric utility access is available.

The Agreement with Brightlife includes $44,370 in compensation to cover the costs of installation/removal and maintenance of seasonal and year-round Item: 7
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8 lighting services. The proposed First Amendment would extend the term of the Agreement by one year and increase the compensation amount by $43,315. If the First Amendment is approved, the new total compensation amount in the Agreement would be $87,685 and the term would expire on September 15, 2025.

The additional compensation would cover the costs of fulfilling the expanded lighting and decorating work included in Option #2, as previously presented to the City Council. Sufficient funding is available in the 2023-2025 Operating Budget to cover the costs of the proposed First Amendment. The proposed First Amendment was prepared by the Finance Department and approved as to form by the City Attorney.

BACKGROUND:

The City displays seasonal and year-round lighting on El Toro Road from the I- 5/El Toro Road interchange to Muirlands Boulevard. Additionally, year-round lighting is provided at The Arbors and on the Civic Center Campus signature Tree. Lighting installation and maintenance services are currently provided by Brightlife.

The initial three-year term of the Agreement with Brightlife is set to expire on September 15, 2024. In anticipation of the upcoming term expiration, staff engaged Brightlife in negotiations to exercise a one-year term extension that would include expanded holiday lighting options pursuant to SP #52 of the City’s Strategic Plan. The description of SP #52 in the Strategic Plan included a $50,000 budget allocation.

On June 18, 2024, staff presented options to the City Council for the expansion of the City’s holiday lighting display. These options are described in Table 1 below.

Table 1: Lighting Options Summary
Option Description Costs
1 Includes current décor of 41 lit trees, wall lighting, and an additional 31 lit trees $28,810
2 Includes current décor of 41 lit trees, wall lighting, additional 31 lit trees, and large wreaths on the Arbor Structures
$39,610
3 Includes current décor of 41 lit trees, wall lighting, with the addition of large décor in the medians $29,985
4 Includes current décor of 41 lit trees, wall lighting, additional 31 lit trees and large décor in the medians $43,260 Item: 7
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8 On June 18, 2024, expanded holiday lighting Option #2 was approved with added direction from the City Council to investigate the possibility of including holiday lighting options along Portola Parkway. Staff were further directed to return to a subsequent City Council meeting with a contract document to effectuate the additional lighting work to be performed by Brightlife.

On July 16, 2024, staff returned to give the City Council an update on the directive to investigate additional lighting options on Portola Parkway. Pursuant to City Council direction, staff identified potential areas on or near Portola Parkway to add holiday lighting in a manner consistent with the lighting displays on El Toro Road. Staff researched the ownership of these sites along with electric utility access. The results of this assessment are described in Table 2 below.

Table 2: Additional Lighting Options on Portola Parkway Location Ownership Electrical Available
City Monument Sign on Alton
Parkway
City No
Corner of Portola Parkway/El Toro
Road
Privately owned N/A
Corner of Portola Parkway/ Lake
Forest Drive
Privately owned N/A
Corner of Portola Parkway/ Bake
Parkway
Privately owned N/A
Medians on Portola Parkway between
241 Toll Road and El Toro Road
City No
Medians on Portola Parkway 241 Toll
Road to Alton Parkway
Privately owned N/A
Although the City owns the monument sign on Alton Parkway and portions of the medians on Portola Parkway, there is not sufficient electrical power access to illuminate holiday lighting at those locations. Additional research would be needed to determine the cost of adding the necessary electrical infrastructure to the City-owned monument sign and medians to support holiday lighting.

The City Council approved the staff’s recommendation to move forward with Option #2 and to continue to investigate alternative medians or other areas in the northeastern section of Lake Forest to receive holiday lights. Due to the lack of electric utility access and ownership constraints described in Table 2, staff worked with Brightlife to identify alternative ways to add holiday décor to the area. Staff identified the Alton Parkway monument sign, located on Alton Parkway just south of Commercentre Drive, as an ideal location to add non- illuminated decorations. As such, the First Amendment to the Agreement with Item: 7
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8 Brightlife includes the installation of garland and a professionally decorated wreath on the Alton Parkway monument sign.

DISCUSSION:

The scope of work in the Agreement with Brightlife includes installation and maintenance of various lighting and decorations at designated locations. The Agreement includes compensation for each year of lighting services over the course of the three-year term. A description of lighting locations and their associated annual costs is provided in Table 3 below.

Table 3: Annual Compensation for Brightlife Agreement
Year 1
El Toro Rd (Year-Round/Seasonal $16,470
Civic Center (Seasonal) $2,000
Civic Center (Year-Round) $8,000
Year 1 Total $26,470
Year 2
El Toro Rd (Year-Round/Seasonal $6,950
Civic Center (Seasonal) $2,000
Civic Center (Year-Round) No Cost
Year 2 Total $8,950
Year 3
El Toro Rd (Year-Round/Seasonal $6,950.00
Civic Center (Seasonal) $2,000.00
Civic Center (Year-Round) No Cost
Year 3 Total $8,950
Grand Total (3 Years) $44,370

The proposed First Amendment with Brightlife (Attachment 2) would extend the term of the Agreement for one year until September 15, 2025, and increase the compensation amount by $43,315. If approved, the new total compensation amount would be $87,685. The First Amendment would increase the scope of work in the Agreement to include these new features:
•Installation/removal and maintenance on El Toro Road of 72 lit trees (31 more trees than the previous year), wall lighting and large wreaths on the Arbors Structures.
•Installation/removal and maintenance of pre-decorated garland and a wreath on the Alton Parkway monument sign.

Item: 7
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8 •Maintenance of the year-round lighting on The Arbors structures and the signature tree at the Civic Center campus.

After the installation of holiday decorations at the Alton Parkway monument sign, staff plan to research and identify additional locations in the area to receive holiday decorations. Staff will report their findings to the City Council as part of the holiday decoration planning for 2025.

Staff believes Brightlife’s performance has met or exceeded the Agreement’s scope of work relative to the responsibilities associated with seasonal and year- round lighting services. Through the term of the Agreement, Brightlife staff have demonstrated their willingness to respond quickly to requests for services and consistently completed all requested work in a professional manner. Brightlife provides excellent customer service and has accommodated the dynamic needs of the City. As required by the City’s Purchasing and Contracting Guidelines, Table 4 below provides an overall summary of Brightlife’s performance over the initial term of the Agreement.

Table 4: Vendor Performance Assessment
Brightlife Designs Performance Assessment
September 15, 2021 – August 27, 2024
Category Rating
Performance Scope of
Services
☐Unsatisfied ☐Satisfied ☒Very Satisfied ☐NA
Timeliness ☐Unsatisfied ☐Satisfied ☒Very Satisfied ☐NA
Budget Performance ☐Unsatisfied ☐Satisfied ☒Very Satisfied ☐NA Customer Service ☐Unsatisfied ☐Satisfied ☒Very Satisfied ☐NA Based on Brightlife contract performance, as well as their ability to meet the needs of the City for additional holiday lighting as described in SP#52 of the City’s Strategic Plan, staff recommends approving the First Amendment to the Agreement. If approved, the proposed First Amendment would amend the scope of work to include additional seasonal lighting and décor. The First Amendment would also add $43,315 in compensation to the Agreement and extend the term by one year. The Finance Department prepared the attached First Amendment, and the City Attorney reviewed and approved it as to form.

FISCAL IMPACT:

The proposed First Amendment would add $43,315 for the new contract amount of $87,685. Sufficient funds are available in Fiscal Year 2024-25 of the 2023- 2025 Operating Budget.

Item: 7
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8 ATTACHMENTS:

1. Agreement with Brightlife Designs, LLC

2. First Amendment to Agreement with Brightlife Designs, LLC Initiated By: Victoria Blethen, Recreation Manager
Submitted By: Sean McGovern, Deputy City Manager
Approved By: Debra Rose, City Manager
Item: 7
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87 Attachment 2
Item: 7
88 Docusign Envelope ID: 1BB00A88-B384-40D0-BA2D-F666F111FB01

YEAR-ROUND LIGHTING SERVICES
(2021-066.1)
City of Lake Forest
100 Civic Center Dr.

Lake Forest, CA 92630
Item: 7
89 Docusign Envelope ID: 1BB00A88-B384-40D0-BA2D-F666F111FB01 City of Lake Forest
First Amendment to Professional Consultant Services Agreement Year-Round Lighting Services
I.

II.

III.

IV.

V.

PARTIES AND DATE. ..............................................................................

RECITALS...............................................................................................

TERMS...................................................................................................

SIGNATURES. ........................................................................................

EXHIBIT "A" SCOPE OF SERVICES...........................................................

EXHIBIT "C" - COMPENSATION..............................................................VI.

Item: 7
90 Docusign Envelope ID: 1BB00A88-B384-40D0-BA2D-F666F111FB01 Title: Year-Round Lighting Services

1. PARTIES AND DATE.

This First Amendment to the Agreement for Professional Consultant Services ("First Amendment") is entered into on the day of , by and ,
between the City of Lake Forest, a municipal corporation, organized under the laws of the State of California, with its principal place of business at 100 Civic Center Drive, Lake Forest, California 92630 (“City”) and Brightlife Designs LLC, a California Limited Liability Company (LLC), with its principal place of business at 16351 Gothard St, Ste C, Huntington Beach, CA 92647 (“Consultant”). City and Consultant are sometimes individually referred to herein as “Party” and collectively as “Parties.” 3 Item: 7
91 Docusign Envelope ID: 1BB00A88-B384-40D0-BA2D-F666F111FB01 Title: Year-Round Lighting Services

2. RECITALS.

2.1. Agreement
The Parties entered into that certain Agreement for Seasonal and Year Round Lighting Services dated September 29, 2021 "(Agreement").

2.2. First Amendment
The Parties now desire to amend the Agreement in order to extend the term of the Agreement, expand the scope of services, and increase the total amount of compensation under the Agreement. 4 Item: 7
92 Docusign Envelope ID: 1BB00A88-B384-40D0-BA2D-F666F111FB01 Title: Year-Round Lighting Services

3. TERMS.

3.1. Term.

Section 3.1.2 of the Agreement is hereby amended in its entirety to read as follows:

The term of this Agreement shall be from September 16, 2021 to September 15, 2025, unless earlier terminated as provided herein. The City shall have the unilateral option, at its sole discretion, to renew this Agreement annually for no more than one (1) additional one-year terms. Consultant shall complete the Services within the term of this Agreement, and shall meet any other established schedules and deadlines.

3.2. Compensation.

Section 3.3.1 of the Agreement is hereby amended in its entirety to read as follows:

Consultant shall receive compensation, including authorized reimbursements, for all Services rendered under this Agreement at the rates set forth in Exhibit “C” attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference. The total compensation shall not exceed EIGHTY-SEVEN THOUSAND SIX HUNDRED EIGHTY-FIVE DOLLARS ($87,685) without written approval of the City Council or City Manager as applicable. Extra Work may be authorized, as described below, and if authorized, will be compensated at the rates and manner set forth in this Agreement.

3.3. Extra Work.

The Scope of Services as set forth in Exhibit “A” of the Agreement is hereby amended to include the Services set forth in EXHIBIT "A" SCOPE OF SERVICES to this Amendment, attached hereto and incorporated herein.

3.4. Remaining Provisions of Agreement.

Except as otherwise specifically set forth in this First Amendment, the remaining provisions of the Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.
5 Item: 7
93 Docusign Envelope ID: 1BB00A88-B384-40D0-BA2D-F666F111FB01 Title: Year-Round Lighting Services

4. SIGNATURES.

4.1. SIGNATURES.

CITY OF LAKE FOREST Brightlife Designs LLC
By: By: VENDOR SIGNAT
Mark Tettemer
Mayor
Joe Castro
President
[If Corporation, TWO SIGNATURES,
President OR Vice President AND Secretary
OR Treasurer REQUIRED]
ATTEST:

By: By: T
Lisa Burgland
City Clerk
Will Gugerty
Chief Financial Officer (Corporation or LLC)
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

By: CITY ATTORNEY SIGNATURE]
Best Best & Krieger LLP
City Attorney
6 Item: 7
94 Docusign Envelope ID: 1BB00A88-B384-40D0-BA2D-F666F111FB01 Title: Year-Round Lighting Services

5. EXHIBIT "A" SCOPE OF SERVICES

5.1. EXHIBIT "A" SCOPE OF MAINTENANCE SERVICES
Services will focus on Seasonal and Year-Round Lighting and seasonal decorations.

A. Seasonal lighting on trees on El Toro Road from the freeway to Muirlands Boulevard and large wreath decorations on structures located on the corners of El Toro and Rockfield Boulevard (Attachment 1).

B. Pre-decorated garland and wreath on the Alton Park monument sign (Attachment 2).

C. Year-round lighting on the Arbor Structures located on the corners of El Toro and Rockfield Boulevard. (Attachment 3).

D. Signature tree in the roundabout at the Civic Center Campus (Attachment 4).

1. Scope for: Seasonal Lighting and Large Wreath decorations.

Time Frame: Turned on the weekend after Thanksgiving 2024 and "live" December/January; Unplugged January 2, 2025, and removed by the end of January.

Location: El Toro Road and Bridger Road from the freeway to Muirlands Boulevard. Arbor Structures corner of El Toro and Rockfield.


Per the Seasonal Lighting Site Map the contractor will install and maintain lights on trees and the large wreaths on the structures as designated in Attachment 1.

The contractor will work with City of Lake Forest' choice of electricians if needed to complete project.



The contractor will pull an encroachment permit and submit a traffic plan to City staff.

The contractor will coordinate the installation dates and times with the Project Manager.

The Project Manager will be the person in charge of all management and maintenance concerns during the months that the service is rendered.
 The contractor shall provide the necessary staff to ensure efficient and timely installation, maintenance, and removal of lights.



The contractor will provide all necessary operating equipment to install, maintain and remove lights.

The contractor shall use LED lights.

Calls for service will be completed within 48 hours of notice.

2. Scope for: Alton Parkway Monument Sign pre-decorated garland and wreath.

Time Frame: Installed the week after Thanksgiving and removed by the end of January 2025.

Location: Alton Parkway median.
7 Item: 7
95 Docusign Envelope ID: 1BB00A88-B384-40D0-BA2D-F666F111FB01 Title: Year-Round Lighting Services
 The contractor will install and remove pre-decorated on the Alton Parkway Monument sign as designated in Attachment 2.




The contractor will meet with staff to familiarize them with project area and site plan.

The contractor will pull an encroachment permit.

The contractor will coordinate the installation dates and times with the Project Manager.

The Project Manager will be the person in charge of all management and maintenance concerns during the months that the service is rendered.
 The contractor shall provide the necessary staff to ensure efficient and timely installation, maintenance, and removal decor.


The contractor will provide all necessary operating equipment to install, maintain and remove lights.

Calls for service will be completed within 48 hours of notice.

3. Scope for: Year-Round Lighting on Arbor Structures
Time Frame: Year Round
Location: El Toro Road and Rockfield Boulevard



Per the Seasonal Lighting Site Map the contractor will install and maintain lights year-round on the Arbor Structures as specified on Attachment 3.

The contractor will provide the Project Manager with a maintenance schedule for the year-round lighting displays.

The Project Manager will be the person in charge of all management and maintenance concerns for the year-round lighting displays.


The contractor shall use LED lights with magnetic adherents for the Arbor.

Calls for service will be completed within 48 hours of notice.

4.Scope for: Year-Round Lighting Large Signature Tree in roundabout with the ability to change colors for a variety of yearly themes via remote control.

Time Frame: Year Round
Location: Lake Forest Civic Center - Roundabout



Per the Civic Center Site Map the contractor will maintain color changing lights on the large signature tree in the roundabout as specified in Attachment 4.

The Project Manager will be the person in charge of all management and maintenance concerns for the year-round lighting displays.

The contractor shall use LED lights for any light strands that may need to be replaced. 8 Item: 7
96 Docusign Envelope ID: 1BB00A88-B384-40D0-BA2D-F666F111FB01 Title: Year-Round Lighting Services

6. EXHIBIT "C" - COMPENSATION

6.1. EXHIBIT "C" - COMPENSATION
Consultant shall be paid for services in accordance with Section 3.3 of the Agreement and as described above under Exhibit “A” Scope of Services and the not to exceed fee of EIGHTY-SEVEN THOUSAND SIX HUNDRED EIGHTY-FIVE DOLLARS ($87,685). Compensation shall be paid per the following schedule and terms.

Year 1
El Toro Rd (Year-Round/Seasonal
Civic Center (Seasonal)
$16,470.00
$2,000.00
$8,000.00
$26,470.00
Civic Center (Year-Round)
Year 1 Total
Year 2 Total
Year 3 Total
Year 2
El Toro Rd (Year-Round/Seasonal
Civic Center (Seasonal)
$6,950.00
$2,000.00
$0.00Civic Center (Year-Round)
$8,950.00
Year 3
El Toro Rd (Year-Round/Seasonal
Civic Center (Seasonal)
$6,950.00
$2,000.00
$0.00Civic Center (Year-Round)
$8,950.00
$44,370.00Original Agreement - Total Compensation
First Amendment - Year 4
Installation/removal and maintenance of 72 lit trees, wall lighting and large wreaths on the Arbors Structures $39,610.00
$1,205.00Installation/removal and maintenance of pre-decorated garland and a wreath on the Alton Parkway monument sign
Maintenance of the year-round lighting on the Arbors structures and the signature on the Civic Center campus $2,500
First Amendment Total: $43,315.00
9 Item: 7
97 Docusign Envelope ID: 1BB00A88-B384-40D0-BA2D-F666F111FB01 Title: Year-Round Lighting Services
First Amendment - Total Compensation (Year 1-4) $87,685.00 In the event that this Agreement is renewed pursuant to Section 3.1.2, the rates set forth above may be increased or reduced each year at the time of renewal, but any increase shall not exceed the Consumer Price Index, All Urban Consumers, Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim. 10 Item: 7
98 Docusign Envelope ID: 1BB00A88-B384-40D0-BA2D-F666F111FB01 A t t a c h 1 m — e S n c to p e p f Wo
A r e a O v e r v i e w
S w a r t z P l a z a t o M u i r l a n d s B o u l e v a r d 1 S e a s o n a l L i g h t i n g
Item: 7
99 Docusign Envelope ID: 1BB00A88-B384-40D0-BA2D-F666F111FB01 2 E x a mp l e o f L a r g e Wr e a t h
Item: 7
100

Docusign Envelope ID: 1BB00A88-B384-40D0-BA2D-F666F111FB01 Attachment 2 ~ Scope of Work
Alton Parkway Monument Sign
Item: 7
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Docusign Envelope ID: 1BB00A88-B384-40D0-BA2D-F666F111FB01 Attachment 3 -Scope of Work
Arbor Structure
Item: 7
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Docusign Envelope ID: 1BB00A88-B384-40D0-BA2D-F666F111FB01 Arbor Structure
Item: 7
103

Docusign Envelope ID: 1BB00A88-B384-40D0-BA2D-F666F111FB01 Attachment 4—Scope of Work
Year-Round Signature Tree
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CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: 9/3/2024
DEPARTMENT: Community Development
SUBJECT:

APPROVE AND ADOPT A LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
RECOMMENDED ACTION(S):

Adopt a Resolution entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE

CITY OF LAKE FOREST, CALIFORNIA APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE

LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN OF THE CITY OF LAKE FOREST EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

The Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (“LHMP”) is a comprehensive strategy developed by the City of Lake Forest to enhance community resilience against both natural and human-made disasters. As part of the broader emergency management cycle, which includes response, recovery, and preparedness, the LHMP focuses on mitigation to reduce disaster impacts and facilitate efficient recovery. Although not mandatory, the LHMP’s preparation aligns with state and federal guidelines and is crucial for obtaining Federal Emergency Management Agency ("FEMA”) funding for mitigation projects. The plan distinguishes between long-term mitigation efforts, such as infrastructure upgrades for seismic resistance, and immediate preparedness measures like emergency shelter operations.

In October 2022, the City initiated the LHMP with a grant, involving extensive collaboration with stakeholders to draft a document that addresses five key goals: reducing life and property risks, ensuring the continuity of critical services, safeguarding natural systems, coordinating mitigation activities, and bolstering community resilience. The LHMP’s development included a review of existing City plans to ensure a cohesive disaster planning approach, resulting in a draft that underwent public review and revisions based on feedback from California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (“CalOES”), FEMA, and the community. To finalize the document, FEMA requires City Council approval.

Staff recommends the City Council adopt a resolution approving and adopting the LHMP that was approved by FEMA (Attachment 1). The proposed LHMP is attached to the Resolution as Exhibit A (Attachment 1, Exhibit A) and the approval letter from FEMA is provided for reference (Attachment 2).

Item: 8
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BACKGROUND:

The LHMP is a strategic document developed to align with both state and federal guidelines. While not compulsory, the LHMP is crucial for accessing federal hazard mitigation grants as per the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Act and its amendments. To qualify for these grants, local jurisdictions must adhere to FEMA’s guidelines, detailed in the Code of Federal Regulations and FEMA’s Local Mitigation Plan Review Tool.

In California, legislation such as Assembly Bill 2140 plays a crucial role in disaster relief funding. This bill conditions the state’s contribution to disaster relief on the existence of a valid LHMP that is consistent with the Disaster Management Act of 2000 and integrated into the jurisdiction’s General Plan.

Additionally, the Safety Element of the General Plan, required for all cities and counties in California, must address various hazardous conditions and public safety issues, which can be fulfilled by adopting an LHMP that meets state standards. This integration ensures a more effective implementation of the LHMP and aligns with Senate Bill 379, which calls for the inclusion of climate change impacts in the Safety Element. To satisfy state mandates, the LHMP can be adopted into the Safety Element, reinforcing the plan’s implementation.

In 2021, a steering group composed of City staff and consultants from Jacob Green & Associates (“Steering Group”) initiated the development of the LHMP. In October of 2022, the City was granted funds for preparation of the LHMP. After extensive research, stakeholder engagement, document preparation, and reviews by CalOES and FEMA, the plan was approved by FEMA on July 31, 2024 (Attachment 2).

DISCUSSION:

A Local Hazard Mitigation Plan is a strategic document established to strengthen community resilience against natural disasters, such as floods, earthquakes, wildfires, and slope failures, and man-made disasters including hazmat/radiological incidents, riots, and terrorism. As a key component of the emergency management cycle, mitigation encompasses measures taken to increase resilience of a community to disasters, reduce the amount of damage caused, and facilitate a more effective recovery. The LHMP concentrates specifically on enhancing the mitigation phase of the cycle by thoroughly examining and outlining a coordinated strategy to minimize these threats. Figure 1 shows where mitigation falls in the emergency management cycle.

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Figure 1: Emergency Management Cycle
The LHMP provides access to information and resources, enabling community members, staff, and local officials to understand local hazards and make informed decisions. Additionally, the LHMP aims to improve coordination and collaboration among the City, community stakeholders, service providers, and the public. In October of 2022, the City was granted funds through the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (“CalFire”) for preparation of the City’s LHMP.

A Plan Overview of the LHMP, or Plan, is provided below, which briefly summarizes the purpose and key points in each chapter of the Plan.

Plan Overview
The Plan begins by outlining the purpose, authority, and structure of the Plan, detailing the goals and the planning process, including risk analysis and resource identification. It specifically outlines the plan goals, which include:
•Reducing the threat to life, injury, and property damage for residents, employees, and visitors;
•Keeping critical services and government functions operational by protecting key infrastructure;
•Protecting natural systems from current and future hazard conditions; •Coordinating mitigation activities among City departments and with neighboring jurisdictions; and,
•Strengthening resiliency through partnerships with community members, local businesses, and community organizations.

The Event
(Disaster)
Response
RecoveryMitigation
Preapredness
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The Introduction chapter also emphasizes the importance of public input and regular updates, which are essential for the Plan’s relevance and effectiveness in mitigating hazards.

The Community Profile of the Plan provides a comprehensive overview of Lake Forest by analyzing a variety of factors:
•history
•key characteristics
•demographic information
•geography
•environment
•natural resources
•population size and density
•local economy
•employment trends
•economic assets
•current land use patterns
•zoning regulations
•development trends
•critical infrastructure, including
transportation networks, utilities,
and public services.

This analysis is essential for understanding the community’s unique context and vulnerabilities, which informs targeted mitigation strategies and ensures that City operations and development plans are resilient and sustainable.

The Hazard Assessment evaluates potential hazards affecting Lake Forest based on severity and likelihood. Figure 2 includes an extensive list of potential hazard events that were assessed for their probability of impact and incorporated in a Hazard Matrix.

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Figure 2: Hazard Matrix
The LHMP includes detailed profiles of each hazard, supported by historical data and potential impacts. This comprehensive understanding of the hazards enables informed decision-making and the prioritization of mitigation efforts. This assessment can guide resource allocation, emergency preparedness, and response strategies, ensuring the City can effectively handle various hazards and minimize their impacts on the community.

The Threat and Vulnerability Assessment outlines the methodology and steps used to evaluate potential threats to Lake Forest, expanding on the descriptions of each identified threat. This assessment evaluates three fundamental aspects of each hazard: the potential physical threat to critical facilities and facilities of concern, the associated social threats to vulnerable populations, and the overall threat to other community assets (infrastructure and utilities) that may be affected by the hazard.

The Hazard Mitigation Strategy chapter outlines strategies to reduce or eliminate risks from hazards. Through a Capabilities Assessment, the Plan lists specific actions and improvement strategies that the City currently implements to mitigate impacts from hazards including various plans, policies, codes, and ordinances such as the Operating Budget, Building Code, Capital Improvement Plan (“CIP”), Emergency Operations Plan, and General Plan. The Mitigation Item: 8
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Actions section of this chapter provides a clear roadmap for reducing vulnerabilities and enhancing resilience. It serves as a guide to implement targeted mitigation actions, detailing potential funding sources, responsible agencies or departments accountable for carrying out each action, and identifying timeframes for the completion of these actions. The goal is to prioritize projects that will have the most significant impact on reducing hazard risks and protecting the community.

The Plan Maintenance chapter outlines procedures for maintaining and updating the LHMP, including steps and schedules for regular reviews and updates.

Specifically, monitoring the progress of mitigation actions will be ongoing throughout the five-year period between the adoption of the LHMP and the next update effort. In case of a significant disaster, responsible groups will convene within 30 days to update the LHMP. Updating meetings will align with the City’s annual budgeting process to ensure funding needs are considered.

Mitigation Action
The LHMP’s focus is on mitigation—a proactive approach to reduce the potential impact of disasters and ensure a more efficient recovery. Mitigation efforts, as outlined in the LHMP, are distinct from preparedness activities. They involve long-term solutions such as infrastructure improvements to resist seismic events, whereas preparedness encompasses immediate response plans like emergency shelter operations.

The mitigation actions in the City’s LHMP cover a range of strategies, from education and outreach initiatives to infrastructure projects. These actions were carefully selected based on criteria such as financial feasibility, administrative and technical capacity, and overall effectiveness in enhancing community resilience. Table 20 in the Plan (Attachment 1, Exhibit A) provides a comprehensive assessment, listing all the chosen mitigation actions. The City’s LHMP focuses on the following key areas:
•Informing and Educating the Public: Emphasize public awareness and education to enhance disaster preparedness. This includes disseminating information about hazards, safety measures, and emergency response protocols.
•Coordination with Other Agencies: Collaborate closely with agencies like the Orange County Fire Authority during emergencies. Effective communication and coordination efforts ensure a unified response to mitigate hazards.

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•Legal Compliance and Documentation: Update documents to align with state and federal laws. Consistency in documentation ensures efficient disaster management.
•Technological Advancements: Invests in technological improvements, such as the installation of a fiber optic network throughout the City. These advancements enhance communication and resilience.

Outreach
During the development of the LHMP, the Steering Committee actively engaged with the community, following FEMA guidelines for public involvement. The focus was on vulnerable and at-risk populations, including the elderly, non-English speakers, and low-income families. Specific efforts included a targeted outreach event at the Senior Clubhouse, where over 100 members learned about hazard profiles and emergency communication. To reach non-English speakers, informational materials in multiple languages, with an emphasis on Spanish, were widely distributed in areas throughout the City. Online engagement through social media platforms further facilitated communication and in-person meetings held at various locations played a central role in engaging the community.

LHMP Goals
The LHMP addresses the five primary goals: reducing threats to life and property, maintaining operational critical services, protecting natural systems, coordinating mitigation activities, and strengthening community resilience through partnerships. Throughout the development of the LHMP, a thorough review of key City documents was conducted to ensure a unified approach to disaster planning. This included integrating insights from the City’s Emergency Operations Plan, General Plan, Storm Water Management Plan, Strategic Business Plan, and Community Wildfire Protection Plan. The methodologies of these documents were compared with the LHMP’s approach, providing a comprehensive risk assessment for each identified hazard. Reviews of state and local hazard mitigation plans also contributed to refining the LHMP’s structure and mitigation strategies.

After the public review stage, the Steering Group revised the Plan and submitted it to Cal OES and FEMA. Once Cal OES and FEMA completed their review and additional adjustments were made, the final draft was approved by FEMA pending City Council approval.

Overall, the LHMP is a critical guide for City officials, emergency personnel, and residents, providing a clear understanding of local risks and fostering a collaborative environment for safety enhancement. The LHMP provides a thorough analysis of potential hazards and the development of a comprehensive Item: 8
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mitigation strategy. Overall, it represents the City’s proactive commitment to public safety and disaster resilience from any future emergencies.

Staff recommends the City Council adopt a resolution approving and adopting the LHMP that was approved by FEMA (Attachment 1). The proposed LHMP is attached to the Resolution as Exhibit A (Attachment 1, Exhibit A) and the approval letter from FEMA is provided for reference (Attachment 2).

FISCAL IMPACT:

There is no fiscal impact associated with the adoption of the LHMP. Future 5- year updates will be budgeted accordingly.

ATTACHMENTS:

1. Draft Resolution Adopting LHMP
Exhibit A. LHMP approved by FEMA

2. Approval Letter from FEMA
Initiated By: Amy Stonich, AICP, Assistant Director of Community Development
Submitted By: Gayle Ackerman, AICP, Director of Community Development Approved By: Debra Rose, City Manager
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RESOLUTION NO. 2024-XX

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF

LAKE FOREST, CALIFORNIA APPROVING AND

ADOPTING THE LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN OF

THE CITY OF LAKE FOREST
WHEREAS, the City of Lake Forest (City) recognizes the threat that natural and manmade hazards pose to people and property within our community; and
WHEREAS, the City recognizes that undertaking hazard mitigation actions will reduce the potential for harm to people and property from future hazard occurrences; and
WHEREAS, the U.S. Congress passed the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (“Disaster Mitigation Act”) emphasizing the need for pre-disaster mitigation of potential hazards; and
WHEREAS, the Disaster Mitigation Act made available hazard mitigation grants to state and local governments; and
WHEREAS, an adopted Local Hazard Mitigation Plan is required as a condition of future funding for mitigation projects under multiple Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) pre- and post-disaster mitigation grant programs; and
WHEREAS, the Disaster Mitigation Act requires local governments to develop and submit hazard mitigation plans to the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) and FEMA every five years; and WHEREAS, the City fully participated in the FEMA-prescribed mitigation planning process to prepare this local hazard mitigation plan; and WHEREAS, adoption of the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan by the City Council demonstrates the City’s commitment to fulfilling the mitigation goals and objectives outlined in the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan; and

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAKE FOREST HEREBY FINDS, RESOLVES, AND ORDERS AS FOLLOWS:

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Resolution No. 2024-XX

SECTION 1. The recitals above are true and correct and incorporated as a basis for the findings.

SECTION 2. The City Council of the City of Lake Forest approves and adopts the City’s Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (“Plan”), attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit “A”. While content related to the City’s Plan may require revisions to meet the Plans approval requirements, changes occurring after adoption will not require the City to re-adopt any further iterations of the Plan in accordance with the new FEMA Adoption process. Subsequent Plan updates following the approval period for this Plan will require separate adoption Resolutions.

SECTION 3. This Resolution shall be submitted to Cal OES and FEMA Region 9 officials to enable the Plan’s final approval in accordance with the requirements of the Disaster Mitigation Act.

SECTION 4. If any section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, or phrase in this Resolution or any part thereof is for any reason held to be unconstitutional, invalid, or ineffective by any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity or effectiveness of the remaining portions of this Resolution or any part thereof. The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted each section irrespective of the fact that any one or more subsections, subdivisions, sentences, clauses, or phrases be declared unconstitutional, invalid, or ineffective.

SECTION 5. This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon adoption.

SECTION 6. The City Manager or designee is hereby authorized to take all actions necessary to implement this Resolution.

SECTION 7. The City Clerk shall certify the passage and adoption of this Resolution.

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Resolution 2024-XX

PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Lake Forest at a regular meeting held this 3 rd day of September, 2024 by the following vote:
________________________

MARK TETTEMER,
MAYOR
ATTEST:
___________________________

LISA BERGLUND

CITY CLERK
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

MATTHEW RICHARDSON

CITY ATTORNEY
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Resolution No. 2024-XX

I, Lisa Berglund, City Clerk of the City of Lake Forest, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 2024-XX was duly passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the Lake Forest City Council on the 3rd day of September, 2024, by the following vote, to wit
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: CIRBO, PEQUEÑO, TETTEMER, VOIGTS, YU NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS:

LISA BERGLUND

CITY CLERK

STATEOFCALIFORNIA)COUNTYOFORANGE) SSCITYOF LAKEFOREST)
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ATTACHMENT 1

EXHIBIT A
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1 TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABBREVIATIONS ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................... 4 GLOSSARY ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ......... 5 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 6 PLAN PURPOSE AND AUTHORITY ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 6 PLAN ORGANIZATION AND USE ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 7 PLAN GOALS ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 8 PLANNING PROCESS................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 8 HAZARD MITIGATION WORKING GROUP AND STEERING GROUP ................................ ................................ .. 10 PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ 14 PLAN REVISION AND ADOPTION ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 14 PLAN RESOURCES ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 14 CHAPTER 2 COMMUNITY PROFILE................................ ................................ ................................ . 16 OVERVIEW ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 16 GEOGRAPHY AND ENVIRONMENT ................................ ................................ ................................ ............... 16 DEMOGRAPHICS ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ......... 17 ECONOMY AND PATTERNS ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 18 LAND USES & DEVELOPMENT TRENDS ................................ ................................ ................................ .......... 18 INFRASTRUCTURE ASSESSMENT................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 22 CHAPTER 3 HAZARD ASSESSMENT ................................ ................................ ................................ . 24 HAZARD IDENTIFICATION & SCORING ................................ ................................ ................................ .......... 24 HAZARD PROFILES ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 28 CHAPTER 4 THREAT AND VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENTS ................................ ............................ 57 THREAT ASSESSMENT PROCESS ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 57 THREAT PROFILES ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 61 CHAPTER 5 HAZARD MITIGATION STRATEGY ................................ ................................ ............... 73 STRATEGY DEVELOPMENT PROCESS ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 73 HAZARD MITIGATION ACTIONS ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 91 CHAPTER 6 PLAN MAINTENANCE ................................ ................................ ................................ . 100 PLAN MAINTENANCE AND UPDATE METHODOLOGY ................................ ................................ ................. 100 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................. 106 LIST OF SOURCES CITED ................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 107 APPENDIX A Meeting Materials ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 112 Item: 8
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2 APPENDIX B Community Outreach Materials ................................ ................................ ............... 123 APPENDIX C ADOPTION RESOLUTION................................ ................................ ........................... 181 City Council resolution of adoption ................................ ................................ ................................ .. 181 Item: 8
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3 Table 1: KEY RESOURCES FOR PLAN DEVELOPMENT ........................................................................15 Table 2: BASIC DEMOGRAPHICS .............................................................................................................17 Table 3: POPULATION BY RACE ...............................................................................................................17 Table 4: DISABILITY POPULATION ...........................................................................................................17 Table 5: 2023 WORKING GROUP HAZARD MATRIX ...............................................................................25 Table 6: CRITERION SCORING .................................................................................................................26 Table 7: HAZARD SCORE AND THREAT LEVEL .....................................................................................27 Table 8: MII SCALE .....................................................................................................................................35 Table 9: FEMA FLOOD PLAIN CATEGORIES ...........................................................................................40 Table 10:ORANGE COUNTY MAJOR FLOOD EVENTS ...........................................................................44 Table 11: US DROUGHT MONITOR CLASSIFICATION SCHEME ...........................................................49 Table 12: CRITICAL FACILITIES AND FACILITIES OF CONCERN .........................................................58 Table 13: FACILITIES IN WILDFIRE HAZARD ZONE ...............................................................................62 Table 14: FACILITIES IN FLOOD HAZARD ZONE ....................................................................................67 Table 15: CAPABILITIES ASSESSMENT ...................................................................................................75 Table 16: STAPLE/E CRITERIA ..................................................................................................................89 Table 17: MITIGATION ACTIONS ...............................................................................................................93

Figure 1 - Existing Land Use Map ...............................................................................................................20 Figure 2 - Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones .......................................................................................29 Figure 3 - Lake Forest Ground Shaking Potential .......................................................................................34 Figure 4 - Liquefaction Hazard Zones .........................................................................................................36 Figure 5 - Projected Earthquake Probability for Lake Forest, CA ...............................................................37 Figure 6 - Lake Forest 100 Year Flood Hazard Areas ................................................................................41 Figure 7 - Lake Forest Flood Hazard Zones ...............................................................................................43 Figure 8 - Statewide Drought Conditions as of February 2023 ...................................................................50 Figure 9 - Drought History (2004 - 2023) ....................................................................................................51 Figure 9 - Drought History (2004 - 2023) ....................................................................................................51 Figure 10 - Critical Facilities Map ................................................................................................................60 Figure 10 - Critical Facilities Map ................................................................................................................60

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4 ABBREVIATIONS

ACS: American Community Survey
CAL FIRE : California Department of
Forestry and Fire Prevention
Cal OES : California Governor’s Office of
Emergency Services
CERT: Community Emergency Response
Team
City: City of Lake Forest
CF: Critical Facilities
CFS: Cubic Feet Per Second
CPR: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation
DMA 2000: Disaster Mitigation Act 2000
EF: Enhanced Fujita scale
EOP: Emergency Operations Plan
ETWD: El Toro Water District
EPA: United States Environmental
Protection Agency
FEMA: Federal Emergency Management
Agency
FHSZ: Fire hazard severity zone
FOC: Facilities of Concern
FRA: Federal Responsibility Area
IRWD: Irvine Ranch Water District
LAWRP: Los Alisos Water Recycling Plant
LHMP: Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
MMI: Modified Mercalli Intensity scale
OCSD: Orange County Sheriff’s
Department
OCTA: Orange County Transportation
Authority
OCFA: Orange County Fire Authority
OCWD: Orange County Water District
SCE: Southern California Edison
SMWD: Santa Margarita Water District
SoCalGas: Southern California Gas
Company
TCA: Transportation Corridor Agency
TCWD: Trabuco Canyon Water District
US Census: United States Census
Bureau
USGS: United States Geological Survey
WELO: Water Efficient Landscape
Ordinance
Working Group : Hazard Mitigation
Working Group
WUI: Wildland-urban interface
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GLOSSARY

100-year flood: A flood that has a 1 percent chance (one in 100) of occurring in any given year. 500-year flood: A flood that has a 0.2 percent chance (one in 500) of occurring in any given year.

Atmospheric river: A narrow band of very moist air in the atmosphere, which can generate intense storms. Up to 50 percent of California’s rainfall comes from the relatively small number of atmospheric storms that affect the state annually.

Climate change: Long-term changes in the average meteorological conditions (temperature, precipitation, wind, etc.) of an area.

Epicenter: The point on the surface of the ground above which an earthquake begins.

Fault line: A boundary between sections of the earth’s surface.

Fault rupture: An event in which sections of the earth’s surface suddenly move past each other along part or all the length of a fault. The sudden movement generates the shaking that we perceive as an earthquake.

Flash flood: A dangerous type of flood that occurs very quickly, with little warning. Usually a result of sudden, intense precipitation.

Flood plain: The area that may be affected by a flood, usually named by the type of flood that can occur there (e.g., a 100-year flood plain).

Liquefaction: A phenomenon in which loose, wet soil is suddenly shaken, causing the soil to behave more like a fluid and lose its stability. Often caused by earthquakes.

Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale: A way of measuring the intensity of an earthquake based on the damage it causes at a specific location. As a result, an earthquake will register a different rating on the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale in different places.

Rupture: See “Fault rupture”
Sea level rise: A global increase in the level of the ocean, driven by melting land ice and increases in water temperature as a result of climate change.

Social Threat: Encompasses the socioeconomic and demographic elements that have an impact on the resilience of communities.

Utility Area: Designated zones or locations where utility services, such as electricity, water, sewage, and telecommunications, are provided.

Utility Infrastructure: Physical structures and networks used to deliver utility services from the utility areas to the end-users.

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CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

PLAN PURPOSE AND AUTHORITY
Hazardous events can result in harm to individuals, including death and injuries, and have a negative impact on overall well-being and safety. Hazardous events can also cause damage to both public and private property, harm the environment, and disrupt essential services. While the actual hazard is usually what receives the most attention, it is only one aspect of the comprehensive emergency management cycle:
• The Event (Disaster)
• Response
• Recovery
• Mitigation
• Preparedness
During the emergency management cycle (which includes the phases of response, recovery, mitigation, and preparedness), steps can be taken by emergency planners and responders to minimize the harm caused by disasters.

This is distinct from preparedness, which involves planning ahead for the best possible response when a disaster occurs or is imminent. For instance, reinforcing homes to withstand earthquakes is a mitigation action, while equipping emergency shelters to accommodate those who lose their homes during an earthquake is a preparedness action. Some measures may be classified as both mitigation and preparedness.

Like other communities, the City of Lake Forest (“City”) is vulnerable to natural and man-made events that can have a significant impact on the City. While it is not possible to eliminate the risks posed by such events, this Local Hazard Mitigation Plan can help make the City a safer place for residents, workers, and visitors. This LHMP conducts a thorough examination of the threats posed by both natural and human-made hazards to the City and outlines a coordinated strategy to minimize these threats. The LHMP offers access to information and resources that enable community members, City staff, and local officials to understand the local hazards and make informed decisions. It also aims to improve coordination and collaboration among the City, community stakeholders, service providers, and members of the public. This increased coordination and collaboration can be beneficial in bringing together various key stakeholders such as other public agencies, local employers, service providers, and community members to work together towards making the City safer.

This Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) concentrates specifically on enhancing the mitigation phase of the cycle. Mitigation encompasses measures taken to increase the resilience of a community to disasters, reducing the amount of damage caused, and facilitating a more effective recovery.

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FEDERAL AUTHORITY

The preparation of a LHMP is not mandatory for the City but is encouraged by state and federal regulations. The Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Act, amended by the Disaster Management Act of 2000, establishes a federal framework for local hazard mitigation planning. The act specifies that, to be eligible for federal hazard mitigation grant funding, jurisdictions must create a hazard mitigation plan that adheres to established guidelines and submit the plan to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for review and approval. These guidelines are defined in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 44, Part 201, and are described in more detail in FEMA's Local Mitigation Plan Review Tool.

STATE AUTHORITY

California Government Code Sections 8685.9 and 65302.6

California Government Code Section 8685.9 (also known as Assembly Bill 2140 or AB 2140) limits the State of California’s share of disaster relief funds paid out to local governments to 75 percent of the funds not paid for by federal disaster relief efforts, unless the jurisdiction has adopted a valid hazard mitigation plan consistent with DMA 2000 and has incorporated the hazard mitigation plan into the jurisdiction’s General Plan. In these cases, the State may cover more than 75 percent of the remaining disaster relief costs.

In California, all cities and counties must include a Safety Element addressing various hazardous conditions and other public safety issues. The Safety Element may be a stand-alone chapter or incorporated into another section of the General Plan. California Government Code Section 65302.6 indicates that a community may adopt an LHMP into its Safety Element, if the LHMP meets applicable state requirements. This allows communities to use the LHMP to satisfy state requirements for Safety Elements. As the General Plan is an overarching long-term plan for community growth and development, incorporating the LHMP into the General Plan by reference creates a stronger mechanism for implementing the LHMP.

California Government Code Section 65302 (g)(4)

Under California Government Code Section 65302 (g)(4), or Senate Bill (SB) 379, the Safety Element in a community's General Plan must address hazards arising from or intensified by climate change. This element should detail the projected impact of climate change on local hazard conditions and incorporate adaptive measures for increased resilience. Integrating the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) into the Safety Element fulfills the state requirement. SB 379 mandates the inclusion of climate change considerations in the Safety Element during LHMP updates post-January 1, 2017, or by January 1, 2022, for communities without an LHMP.

This LHMP is consistent with current standards and regulations as outlined by the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) and FEMA. It uses the best available science, and its mitigation measures reflect best practices and community values. It meets the requirements of current state and federal guidelines and makes the City eligible for opportunities or benefits under state and federal law and practices.

Note that while FEMA is responsible for reviewing and certifying this LHMP, and Cal OES is responsible for conducting a preliminary review, this Plan does not grant FEMA or Cal OES an increased role in the governance of the City or authorize either agency to take any specific action in the community.

PLAN ORGANIZATION AND USE

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The City’s LHMP is both a reference document and an action plan. This planning document will serve as the City’s long-term roadmap for community resiliency and sustainability. This is achieved through promoting sound policy to protect life, critical infrastructure and facilities, private property, and the environment from various hazards. The LHMP has information and resources to educate readers and decision makers about hazard events and related issues and includes a comprehensive strategy the City and community members can utilize to improve resiliency in the City.

This plan cumulates the process of assessing vulnerabilities, measuring risk, identifying strategies for risk reduction, and assigning responsible parties to carry out appropriate action.

This initiative involves a comprehensive study of multiple hazards that could impact the City including natural and human-caused hazards.

In order to create a comprehensive plan, many stakeholders, community members, business leaders, and specialists were involved to attain a common objective of mitigating future risks to the City. This collaborative effort included not only residents, but also Emergency Managers from neighboring districts, utility representatives, and representatives from neighboring colleges. By involving these key parties, the plan can draw upon their expertise and resources to ensure a more robust and resilient approach to addressing potential hazards.

PLAN GOALS

This Plan was developed to broadly increase resiliency in the City. There are five goals for the LHMP:

1. Reduce the threat to life, injury, and property damage for the City’s residents, employees, and visitors.

2. Keep critical services and government functions operational by protecting key infrastructure in the City.

3. Protect natural systems from current and future hazard conditions.

4. Coordinate mitigation activities among City departments and with neighboring jurisdictions.

5. Strengthen resiliency in the City through partnerships with community members, local businesses, and community organizations.

PLANNING PROCESS

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State and federal guidance for local hazard mitigation plans do not require jurisdictions to follow a standardized planning process. FEMA encourages communities to create their own planning process that reflects local values, goals, and characteristics. FEMA suggests a general planning process as outlined in the 2013 Local Hazard Mitigation Planning Handbook:

This section describes the process used by the City to develop its LHMP.

Determine the
Planning Area
& Resources
Build the
Planning Team
Create an
Outreach
Strategy
Develop a
Mitigation
Strategy
Conduct a Risk
Assessment
Review
Community
Capabilities
Keep the Plan
Current
Review and
Adopt the Plan
Create a
Resilient
Community
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HAZARD MITIGATION WORKING GROUP AND STEERING GROUP

The City established a Hazard Mitigation Working Group (“Working Group”) which is made up of representatives from key City departments as well as stakeholder members that include residents, business leaders, representatives from local and regional agencies, and companies that are key to hazard mitigation activities.

The Steering Group was comprised of select members from the Working Group. This group prominently featured representatives from Lake Forest’s Community Development and the consultants commissioned by the City who were tasked with planning and orchestrating the LHMP. As a part of the planning process, a clear distinction was drawn between the roles and responsibilities of the Steering Group and the Working Group, with both functioning synergistically towards achieving common objectives.

The Steering Group's primary mandate was to steer the strategic trajectory of the planning process, coordinate Working Group meetings, planning community outreach initiatives, and function as a crucial conduit facilitating communication between the multitude of stakeholders, the citizens of Lake Forest, and City staff, while simultaneously integrating input for the plan.

A comprehensive schedule of meetings was methodically designed and executed to ensure complete and accurate compilation of the LHMP (please refer to Appendix A for an in-depth account of planning meetings). During intervals between meetings, Steering Group members were entrusted with the task of acquiring relevant data, critically reviewing, and refining content to ensure the delivery of accurate and current information.

These members make up the Hazard Mitigation Steering and Working Group:

Name (Last, First) Department / Organization Group
Simmons, William Jacob Green and Associates Steering Group Cheung, Raymond Jacob Green and Associates Steering Group Faulkner, Katrina Jacob Green and Associates Steering Group Stonich, Amy Community Development /City of Lake Forest (“LF”) Steering Group Young (née Ford), Arianna Community Development/LF Steering Group Musler, Connor Community Development Planning Division/LF Steering Group Hunter, Baryic Fire/OCFA Working Group
Wheeler, Thomas Public Works/LF Working Group
Marzara, Fred/Yuan, Faye Community Development Building Division/LF Working Group Hill, Darrell Community Development Code Enforcement/LF Working Group Shin, Simon City Manager Department Information Technology/LF Working Group Mansur, Jennifer Community Development Planning Division (GIS)/LF Working Group Blethen, Victoria Community Services/LF Working Group
Ackerman, Gayle Community Development/LF Working Group
Volzke, Jonathan Management Services (PIO)/LF Working Group Slaven, Devin Public Works Environmental Compliance/LF Working Group Tran, Tran Public Works Traffic Division/LF Working Group Choi, Steve Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) Working Group Seitz, Sherri El Toro Water District Working Group
Lopez, Chris Santa Margarita Water District Working Group Item: 8
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Falkenstein, Zoran (Business Leaders) Applied Medical Working Group Albrecht, Jeremy (Business Leaders) Applied Medical Working Group Robert Craven Assistant Superintendent, Business Services (SVUSD) Working Group Sperazza, Sara South Orange County Community College District (SOCCCD) Working Group Roberston, Kevin Saddleback Valley Church Working Group Kuta, Cheryl (RSM) (Neighboring Jurisdictions Emergency Managers - RSM) Working Group Catsimanes, Paul (Mission Viejo) (Neighboring Jurisdictions Emergency Managers - Mission Viejo) Working Group Ames, Joe (Laguna Hills) (Neighboring Jurisdictions Emergency Managers - Laguna Hills) Working Group Kim, So (Aliso Viejo) (Neighboring Jurisdictions Emergency Managers - Aliso Viejo) Working Group Rivera, Rose (Aliso Viejo) (Neighboring Jurisdictions Senior Planner- Aliso Viejo) Working Group Meier, Peter Public Works Water Quality Inspector/LF Working Group Gates, Nick Management Services /LF Working Group

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PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT

Under FEMA guidelines, local hazard mitigation planning processes should create opportunities for members of the public to be involved in plan development—at a minimum, during the initial drafting stage and during plan approval. The Steering Group chose to go beyond minimum standards and conduct more extensive community outreach to help ensure that the LHMP reflects community values, concerns, and priorities.

Identifying Vulnerable and At-Risk Populations
In recognizing the diverse needs of our community, the City focused on engaging vulnerable and at-risk populations, including the elderly, non-English speakers, and low-income families, in the LHMP development process. A targeted outreach event at the Senior Clubhouse specifically addressed the concerns of the elderly, where over 100 members learned about hazard profiles and emergency communication. To include non-English speaking residents, informational materials were provided in multiple languages, particularly Spanish, and distributed extensively in areas with high concentrations of non-English speakers. Additionally, understanding the challenges faced by low-income families in accessing information, the City utilized local community centers for material distribution, ensuring these families were well-informed and their voices heard in the planning process. These strategic efforts ensured that the LHMP reflected the diverse needs and concerns of all segments of the community.

Online Engagement
The City recognized not all community members were able to attend public meetings and conducted public engagement through social media and online platforms. The Steering Group set up an information page on the City’s website as a simple one-stop location for community members to learn about the LHMP. This information page was provided in Spanish and English to engage more members of the community. The page included information about what an LHMP is and why the City was preparing one. It had links to materials and plan documents as they became available and notified members of the public about upcoming events.

The Steering Group also used social media accounts, such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and NextDoor to send quick notifications or bursts of information about the Plan and the development process.

A central part of the online engagement was an online survey. This survey was provided in both Spanish and English and asked community members about their experience and familiarity with emergency conditions, their level of preparedness for future emergencies, and preferred actions for the City to take to increase resiliency in Lake Forest.

The survey had responses from 239 community members. Those responses are summarized here:
• Wildfire was the hazard of greatest concern to the largest number of respondents, followed by earthquakes.
• Approximately 46% of respondents have been affected by a disaster in their current home, and 89% of these respondents reported being impacted by wildfire. • Most respondents listed active shooter incidents and long-term power outages as their top two concerns for manmade hazards.
• The top three public education community events requested by the City were as follows:

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Team (CERT) Training.
• 80% of survey participants expressed concern that their neighborhood could be impacted by a disaster.
• Email, NIXLE, television, and the internet were cited as the most effective ways to provide emergency preparation information.
• 53% of survey participants expressed interest in learning more and being involved with the City’s Local Hazard Mitigation Plan.

Public Outreach Events

In-person public meetings were a central component of the City’s engagement efforts. These meetings provided an opportunity for members of the public to learn about the LHMP in depth—the plan development process, the hazards of concern, the mitigation strategies, and individual actions. At these events members of the public spoke directly to City staff, the City’s consultant, and other stakeholders who provided detailed feedback. The City organized several public outreach events including two public meetings. Notification of the outreach events was shared on the City’s website, local radio (AM 1690), in social media posts, the City’s Spring Leaflet, City e-newsletters, and paper notices. Each event was widely distributed in advance to solicit as much participation as possible.

• Outreach Event #1 (January 18, 2023): Steering Group Members provided handouts and an opportunity to participate in the LHMP survey during the annual New Business Reception cohosted by the Chamber of Commerce. Participants learned about the importance of an LHMP, what the Plan would include, and the timeline for developing the Plan. • Outreach Event #2 (February 8, 2023): Flyers with QR code to the survey and an invitation to the community outreach meeting were handed out at a City pop-up booth during the Farmer’s Market at the City's Sports Park.
• Outreach Event #3 (February 22, 2023): This was a special outreach event held at City Hall during which members of the public learned about the importance of an LHMP, what the Plan would include, and the timeline for developing it. Participants engaged in a hands-on activity and discussion to identify the hazards of most concern. An all-hazards approach was taken and participants submitted their assessment of potential impacts of each hazard back to the planning team.
• Outreach Event #4 (February 23, 2023): To ensure a comprehensive community assessment was conducted, City staff and the Consultant provided a presentation explaining the plan, held a Q&A, and provided a survey to senior citizens at the City’s Senior Clubhouse. At this event, over 100 members of the public learned about the hazard profiles developed for the plan and were engaged to assess their hazard concerns, assess individual preparedness, and best methods of contact in the event of a disaster. 98 survey responses were received during the presentation. • Outreach Event #5 (April 15, 2023): A Southwest Outreach Event was hosted by the City on April 15, 2023, as part of the City’s Neighborhood Improvement Task Force. The event was held at Cavanaugh Park, a central location for stakeholders in the subject neighborhood. Flyers for the survey were distributed to approximately 40 residents who attended the event. • Planning Commission Meeting (TBD)
• City Council Meeting (TBD):

Additional Engagement Conducted

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participation from the community as possible. These included:

• Physical flyers in Spanish and English distributed for posting on bulletin boards at City Hall, Foothill Ranch Public Library, El Toro Public Library, Lake Forest’s Sports Park Recreation Center, and 15 Spanish owned/speaking businesses. • Digital flyers sent to current and past Sheriff’s Team of Active Retired Seniors (STARS) classes, current and past Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) classes, and over 80 Lake Forest homeowners associations (HOAs).
• Internal email campaign to 146 personnel to encourage City Staff engagement. • The Plan and details were featured in the City’s March 2023 E-Newsletter with over 7k subscribers which was also accessible on the City’s website. https://www.lake- forest.360civic.com/en/departments/community-services/programs/city-publications • City Manager’s message in the Leaflet Spring 2023 edition. The Leaflet is an official publication of the City of Lake Forest and is distributed as a public service to over 35,000 Lake Forest homes and businesses. The Leaflet and Spring Recreation Guide 2023 | Lake Forest, CA - Official Website (lakeforestca.gov)
• Ongoing radio outreach ad on AM 1690 featured across the City. • Announcement in the Mayor’s State of the City presentation, which was attended by community members and local business owners, as well as other stakeholders. The presentation was shared on social media and is available on the City’s website and YouTube channel. 2023 State of the City - Magic of Lake Forest | Lake Forest, CA - Official Website (lakeforestca.gov) https://youtu.be/dmFPlwl2OaQ?t=346

Appendix B contains copies of all materials used for public outreach, including the full results of the community survey.

PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT

On October 11, 2023, the City released a draft copy of the LHMP for a 2-week public review and comment period with a closing date of October 27, 2023. The document was posted electronically on the City’s website. The City distributed notifications about the public review draft through the city website, social media accounts, radio station and Home Owner Associations in the City.

PLAN REVISION AND ADOPTION

After the public review stage, the Steering Group revised the Plan and submitted it to Cal OES and FEMA. Once Cal OES and FEMA completed their review, the Steering Group made additional adjustments based on comments from state and federal agencies. The final draft was then presented to the City decision-makers. The City of Lake Forest City Council adopted the final LHMP on [DATE], 2024. Appendix C contains a copy of the adoption resolution.

PLAN RESOURCES

During the LHMP preparation and development, several other documents were reviewed to ensure consistency in planning efforts. Information from the following documents has been incorporated throughout this plan: the City’s Emergency Operations Plan, General Plan (specifically, the City’s Safety and Housing Elements of the General Plan), Storm Water Management Plan, the Strategic Business Plan, and the Community Wildfire Protection Plan.

Reviewing the various methodologies used in these plans compared to the methodology in the LHMP was useful in evaluating the risk and impact associated with each hazard. Other plans and documents provided base level data, either for statistical purposes or based on scientific research surrounding potential hazard impacts in the City. Finally, state, and other local hazard mitigation plans were reviewed to evaluate format and content. Some of the key documents, reports, and Item: 8
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studies reviewed by the Steering Group are depicted in the Table 1 below:

Table 1: KEY RESOURCES FOR PLAN DEVELOPMENT
Section Key Resources Example Uses
Multiple sections • Cal-Adapt
• California Geological Survey
• California State Hazard Mitigation Plan
• City of Lake Forest General Plan
• FEMA Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Guidance
• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
• National Weather Service
• United States Geological Survey
• US Census Bureau 2017 -2021 American Community
Survey
• Science and background information
on different hazard conditions
• Records of past disaster events in and
around Lake Forest
• Current and anticipated climate
conditions in and around Lake
Forest
• Projections of future seismic
conditions and events
Community Profile • City of Lake Forest financial and economic reports • California Energy Commission
• El Toro Water District
• Trabuco Canyon Water District
• Irvine Ranch Water District

• Demographic information for Lake
Forest
• History of the region
• Economic trends in Lake Forest
• Commute patterns in Lake Forest
• Local land uses patterns
• Background information on utilities
serving Lake Forest
Hazard Assessment
(Drought )
• California Department of Water Resources
• US Drought Monitor
• Western Regional Climate Center
• Science and background information
of extreme weather events.
• Historical record of extreme weather
events in and around Lake Forest
Hazard Assessment
(Flood)
• FEMA Map Service Center
• Orange County Flood Control District
• Records of past flood events in and
around Lake Forest
• Locations of flood-prone areas in
Lake Forest
Hazard Assessment
(Earthquake )
• Southern California Earthquake Data Center • Locations of fault zone • Records of past earthquakes
Hazard Assessment
(Wildfire)
• California Department of Forestry and Fire Prevention • Records of past fire events • Location of fire hazard zones in and
around Lake Forest
Note: Sections that are not individually called out in this table relied primarily on sources identified in multiple

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CHAPTER 2

COMMUNITY PROFILE

This chapter of the LHMP is a summary of the City with information about the community’s physical setting, history, economy and demographics, current and future land uses, and key infrastructure. The Community Profile establishes the baseline conditions that inform the development of the hazard mitigation actions in Chapter 5.

OVERVIEW

Prior to incorporation, the City of Lake Forest was known as "El Toro". It was established in 1863 as an agricultural area and served as a stagecoach stop between San Diego and Los Angeles.

The community flourished, being quintessential in bringing the Santa Fe Rail Line through the region and later establishing El Toro Road at the I-5 freeway - the epicenter of the Saddleback Valley.

In 1991, residents chose to incorporate the City, renaming it “Lake Forest”. Nine years after its incorporation, the City expanded its limits to the northeast to include the Foothill Ranch and Portola Hills neighborhoods, bringing additional homes and business centers into the City. The City's name was inspired by its two man-made lakes, as well as around 400 acres of eucalyptus trees tucked alongside Ridge Route Drive, which serves as the "forest".

Today, the City is home to over 30 parks, and several corporate headquarters of fashion, technology, and restaurant industries. The City offers a wide range of municipal services to its 85,000-plus citizens. Many services are contracted by the City, including law enforcement, which is provided by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, and fire services which is provided through the Orange County Fire Authority.

GEOGRAPHY AND ENVIRONMENT

The City is located in southeast Orange County, in an area known as the Saddleback Valley, and is nestled up against the foothills of the Santa Ana Mountain range to the east and the Pacific Ocean approximately 8 miles to the west. The City is 16.8 square miles in size and is bordered by the cities of Irvine to the west, Laguna Hills and Laguna Woods to the south, Mission Viejo to the east, and unincorporated Trabuco Canyon to the northeast, and Modjeska Canyon and Limestone Canyon Regional Park to the north. Interstate 5 traverses the southwestern edge of the City.

The City sees an average annual rainfall of 14 inches and a humidity of 4 percent. The City enjoys an average summer high temperature of 83 degrees, a winter average high of 67 degrees, and rarely dips below 40 degrees. These averages are facilitated through the City’s average elevation of 489 feet as reported by the USGS, its close proximately to the Pacific Ocean, and its abundance of open space, parks and trails.

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DEMOGRAPHICS

The data used in this section comes from the American Community Survey (ACS), administered by the United States Census Bureau (US Census), completed in 2021. Based on this dataset, Lake Forest’s population was estimated to be 85,742 with a median age of 39, one year younger than the average median age in Orange County. Table 2 (below) shows the basic demographics of the City, which has gained on average 900 residents annually over the past 10 years.

The latest data depicts a diverse community, as shown in Tables 2 and 3 below.

Table 2: BASIC DEMOGRAPHICS
Percentage of Total Lake Forest Population
Persons under 5 years 6.4%
Persons under 18 years 21.4%
Persons between 18 - 65 58.7 %
Persons 65 years and over 13.5%
Source: US Census Bureau 2021

Table 3: POPULATION BY RACE
Percentage of Total Lake Forest Population
Non-Hispanic White 54.0%
Hispanic of any race 24.5%
Non-Hispanic Asian 15.4%
Non-Hispanic Black 1.8%
All Other Non-Hispanic Races 4.3%
Source: US Census Bureau 2021

32.98% of City residents are bilingual, speaking both English and at least one other language.

The remaining 67.02% of residents speak only English. Among those who are bilingual, the largest group, constituting 15.27% of the population, speaks Asian and Pacific Island languages, while Spanish is spoken by 15.05% of the population.

In 2021, the U.S. Census Bureau estimated that 11.81% of the noninstitutionalized population in the City was living with a disability. This percentage increases among the older population, with nearly 41.5% of the population 65 and older having some form of disability Table 4 contains amplifying details that were considered during the planning process.

Table 4: DISABILITY POPULATION
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Percentage of Total Lake Forest Population
Persons under 20 5.5%
Persons 21-64 13.0%
Persons over 64 41.5%
Ambulatory 3.0%
Cognitive 2.4%
Vision 0.9%
Hearing 2.5%
Source: US Census Bureau 2021
Note the percentages provided in Table 4, sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau, may not sum to exactly 100% due to rounding errors, statistical imprecision, or the possibility of respondents being able to select multiple categories.

ECONOMY AND PATTERNS

The City has a diverse mix of industries, including fashion, healthcare, technology, retail, and manufacturing. The largest employer in the City is Oakley Inc., a sports performance equipment and lifestyle company employing 1,275 people as of 2022. Other major employers include Cox Communications, Wal-Mart, and Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.

Commuting patterns in the City are largely influenced by the City's location within Orange County, which is known for its extensive freeway system. Many residents commute to other cities within the County for work. The average commute time for residents is around 27 minutes, slightly lower than the national average.

LAND USES & DEVELOPMENT TRENDS

Lake Forest has experienced significant growth and development in recent decades. The City has a diverse mix of land uses including residential, commercial, and industrial, and a focus on creating a balanced and sustainable community.

Residential development in the City consists primarily of single-family homes, multi-family homes, and apartments. Over the past decade, the City has undergone residential development of over 800 acres as part of the Opportunities Study1 and 126 acres of the Meadows Residential Community subdivision. Other residential developments, including a 71-unit affordable housing project (Mountain View), have increased housing opportunities in the City. Five focus areas, recently rezoned to mixed-use as part of the City’s 2040 General Plan update, are also anticipated to accommodate future residential development.

Commercial development in Lake Forest is focused on several shopping centers and retail districts located along the City’s major corridors El Toro Road, Lake Forest Drive, and the 241 Toll Road. The Orchard at Saddleback, El Toro Square, Heritage Hill, and the Foothill Ranch Towne Centre are a few of the commercial centers within the City.

Industrial development in the City is primarily focused on the manufacturing and technology sectors. The City is home to several major corporations, including Kawasaki Motors Corp. USA and Apria Healthcare, and has a number of industrial parks and office complexes.

1Opportunities Study: The City's comprehensive planning process to transition acres across 5 properties from business and industrial to residential, paving the way for amenities such as a sports park and community center.

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Figure 1 depicts the land use designations in the City.

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Figure 1 - Existing Land Use Map
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INFRASTRUCTURE ASSESSMENT

Maintaining key infrastructure networks in the City, as well as external partners supporting the community, is crucial. Any damage to these networks can result in additional hazards, such as a burst water tank causing flooding or downed power lines leading to a fire.

ELECTRICITY

The City is powered by Southern California Edison (SCE), which is the primary electricity supplier for much of Southern California. SCE is responsible for the ownership, maintenance, and operation of the power transmission and distribution infrastructure that serves the City. This infrastructure includes a complex system of power lines, transformers, and substations that work together to deliver electricity to homes, businesses, and other facilities in the area.

Substations are a critical component of the electrical grid infrastructure, as they play a key role in transforming the voltage of the electricity to a level that can be safely and efficiently distributed to homes and businesses. There are several substations located near Lake Forest that are owned and operated by SCE, as well as one within the City limits. These substations are responsible for regulating the flow of electricity, controlling voltage levels, and preventing power outages in the area.

Substations serving the City area include the Portola Substation located in nearby Irvine, the El Toro Substation located just outside of the City limits, the 220/66/12 kilovolt (kV) substation (Viejo Substation) on a 12.5-acre site located in the City of Lake Forest supported by a 3.1-mile 66 kV sub-transmission line along the corridor between the Viejo Substation, and the Chiquita Substation located in the City of Mission Viejo.

NATURAL GAS

Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas) is the provider of natural gas service in the City.

According to So Cal Gas, there is a significant transmission line running parallel to and in between Jeronimo Road and Muirlands Boulevard in the northwesterly part of the City, with no other major pipelines in the area. However, it is important to note that damage to the transmission line or facilities in neighboring communities may impact the natural gas service in the City. Due to the potential flammability and combustibility of natural gas, incidents such as a pipeline rupture or sparks near natural gas can lead to serious consequences, such as fire or explosion.

WATER AND WASTEWATER

The City relies on robust and reliable water and wastewater infrastructure to support the needs of its residents, businesses, and visitors. This infrastructure is comprised of a complex network of pipes, pumps, treatment plants, and storage facilities designed to collect, treat, and distribute water and wastewater throughout the City.

Water Infrastructure: The primary water supply for the City is processed at the Baker Water Treatment Plant, a facility operated by the Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) with a daily capacity of 28.1 million gallons. This plant, a joint regional facility serving the Santa Margarita Water District (SMWD) and four South Orange County water districts, enhances water supply reliability, quality, and local control. Since its launch in January 2017, the plant has effectively treated, processed, and distributed water at a cost lower than imported treated water, highlighting its cost-effectiveness and efficiency.

The City is primarily reliant on imported water from the Municipal Water District of Orange County, and the Metropolitan Water District also runs a pipeline through the City. The City has multiple water districts - IRWD, El Toro Water District (ETWD), and Trabuco Canyon Water District (TCWD). IRWD manages Item: 8
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approximately 3/4 of the City's water supply, while about 1/4 is served by ETWD, which also uses imported water.

The IRWD operates the City's water distribution system, which includes over 300 miles of pipes, storage tanks, and pumping stations. This system delivers water to more than 20,000 customers, including residential, commercial, and industrial users.

The City also uses recycled water from IRWD for various purposes. Several parks, parkways and common landscape areas in the City use recycled water, and IRWD has significant infrastructure for recycled water operating within the City.

Wastewater Infrastructure: The City’s wastewater infrastructure prioritizes efficiency and cost- effectiveness through advanced technology in water treatment and recycling. The Los Alisos Water Recycling Plant (LAWRP), operating since 1964, has undergone numerous upgrades, increasing its recycled water production capacity to 7.5 million gallons per day. Recycled water accounts for over a quarter of the district's water demands and conserves drinking water resources.

The wastewater at LAWRP undergoes a multi-step process, resulting in tertiary recycled water suitable for non-potable uses. These processes include coagulation, flocculation, clarification, filtration, and sodium hypochlorite disinfection. In addition to LAWRP, the El Toro Water District Water Recycling Plant also serves the City, representing a significant portion of the City's water and wastewater lines.

TRANSPORTATION

Lake Forest has a well-established transportation system that utilizes several major highways to provide convenient access to other cities and regions in Southern California. The primary highways serving Lake Forest include Interstate 5 and State Route 241.

Interstate 5, the primary north-south interstate highway on the West Coast of the United States, runs along and parallel to the southwestern edge of the City. Northbound lanes provide quick access to nearby cities such as Irvine, Santa Ana, and Anaheim, as well as the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area. Southbound lanes provide access to Mission Viejo, San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point and San Clemente, as well as Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton and the City of San Diego. State Route 241 is a toll road that connects from State Route 91 and runs from the eastern edge of Orange County to Rancho Santa Margarita and provides a convenient alternative to I-5 for commuters and travelers looking to avoid traffic congestion.

Lake Forest is also served by a network of local roads and streets that provide access to neighborhoods, commercial areas, and public facilities. The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) provides public transit services in the City and the surrounding areas. This includes bus routes and paratransit services that connect the City to other parts of Orange County.

The City is also connected through the Southern California Regional Rail Authority's Metrolink system, which operates intercity passenger trains throughout the region. The nearest Metrolink station to Lake Forest is the Irvine Station, located approximately 7 miles northwest of Lake Forest. This rail network is shared with the BNSF Railway, which manages freight traffic, enhancing the City's connection to various commercial transportation networks. The closest major airport is John Wayne Airport, located in nearby Santa Ana.

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CHAPTER 3

HAZARD ASSESSMENT

This chapter discusses the types of hazards that might reasonably happen within the City. It describes these hazards and how they are measured, provides a history of these hazards in and around the City, identifies where they may occur, and discusses the risks they pose. The discussion of risks include any changes to the frequency, intensity, and/or location of these hazards as a result of climate change. This chapter also discusses how the Working Group identified and prioritized the hazards in this Plan. The prioritization was accomplished through a series of meetings involving the broader group, wherein open discussions were conducted among all Working Group members in a virtual setting. Various factors were considered in the decision-making process, including public concerns expressed through surveys, historical data, subject matter expert opinions, hazardous events impacting neighboring communities, and additional information contributed by the members.

HAZARD IDENTIFICATION & SCORING

FEMA guidance identifies a number of hazards communities should evaluate for inclusion in a hazard mitigation plan. Communities may also consider additional hazards for their plans. The Working Group reviewed an extensive list of hazard events and excluded the ones that pose the least threat or are assessed to have the lowest probability of impact from the LHMP. Table 5 below indicates the hazards discussed and their ranking measured on the Hazard Matrix.

The following criteria, based on historical and recent events, were used to determine the rating of each potential hazard, validating their frequency and impacts:

Probability

• Likely: There may or may not have been historic occurrences of the hazard in the community or region, but experts feel that it is likely that the hazard will occur in the community. Between 10% and 100% annual probability.
• Possible: There may or may not have been a historic occurrence of the hazard in the community or region, but experts feel that it is possible the hazard could occur in the community. Less than 10% annual probability.
• Unlikely: There have been no historic occurrences of the hazard in the community or region and experts agree it is highly unlikely that the hazard will occur in the community. Less than 1% annual probability.

Impact

• High: Catastrophic/Critical. The consequences will be significant in terms of building damage and loss of life.
• Moderate: Limited. The consequences are thought to be modest in terms of building damage and loss of life, limited either in geographic extent or magnitude. • Low: Negligible. Little building damage and trivial impact to infrastructure and critical facilities.

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Table 5: 2023 WORKING GROUP HAZARD MATRIX

Probability of Occurrence
Impact and Extent
Likely Possible Unlikely
High
• Wildfires • Earthquake • Epidemic / Infectious Disease Moderate
• Floods
• Drought
• Climate Change
• Hazmat / Radiological
Incident

• Slope Failure / Landslides
• Utility Resource Destruction
• Terrorism
• Contamination
• Technology Disruption
Low
• Extreme Temperature • Severe Storms • Rail Incident
• Civil Unrest / Protest / Riots
• Aircraft Incident
• Transportation Disruption

The Working Group reviewed the results of the January 2023 Hazard Assessment, along with the Community Hazard & Risk Assessment Survey, and developed the following list of natural hazards for inclusion in the 2023 LHMP:

• Wildfires
• Earthquakes
• Floods
• Drought
• Slope Failure/Landslides

The Steering Group then followed FEMA guidance for hazard mitigation plans and prioritized each of the five hazards. A score of 1 to 4 was assigned to four criteria for each of the five hazards. The four criteria are:

• Probability: the likelihood that the hazard will occur in Lake Forest in the future. • Location: The size of the area that the hazard would affect. • Maximum probable extent: The severity of the direct damage of the hazard to Lake Forest. • Secondary impacts: The severity of indirect damage of the hazard to Lake Forest.

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The Steering Group assigned a weighting value to each criterion, giving a higher weight to the criteria deemed more important, and multiplied the score for each criterion by the weighting factor to determine the overall score for each criterion. The weighting values were recommended by FEMA:

• Probability: 2.0
• Location: 0.8
• Maximum probable extent: 0.7
• Secondary impacts: 0.5

Table 6 shows the rubric used to assign a score for each criterion.

Table 6: CRITERION SCORING

Probability Maximum Probable Extent
(Primary Impact)
The estimated likelihood of occurrence based on historical data.

The anticipated damage to a typical structure in the
community.

Probability Score Impact Score
Unlikely—less than a 1 percent chance in a given
year.
1 Weak—little to no damage 1
Occasional—a 1 to 10 percent chance in a given
year. 2 Moderate—some damage, loss of service
for days 2
Likely—a 10 to 90 percent chance in a given year. 3 Severe—devastating damage, loss of service for months 3
Highly likely—more than a 90 percent chance in a
given year. 4 Extreme—catastrophic damage,
uninhabitable conditions 4
Location Secondary Impact
The projected area of the community affected by the hazard. The estimated secondary impacts to the community at large.

Affected Area Score Impact Score
Negligible—affects less than 10 percent of the
planning area. 1 Negligible—no loss of function,
downtime, and/or evacuations 1
Limited—affects 10 to 25 percent of the planning
area.
2 Limited—minimal loss of functions,
downtime, and/or evacuations 2
Significant—affects 25 to 75 percent of the
planning area. 3 Moderate—some loss of functions,
downtime, and/or evacuations 3
Extensive—affects more than 75 percent of the
planning area. 4 High—major loss of functions, downtime, and/or evacuations 4

After calculating the overall score for each criterion for each hazard, the scores for location, maximum probable extent, and the secondary impact were summed to determine the total impact score for each hazard. FEMA guidance recommends multiplying the total impact score by the overall probability score to determine the final score for each hazard. A final score between 0 and 12 is considered a low -threat hazard, 12.1 to 42 is a medium -threat hazard, and a score above 42 is considered a high -threat hazard.

This final score determines the prioritization of the hazards. Table 7 shows the individual criterion scores, the final score, and the threat level for each hazard based on the above prioritization process.

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Table 7: HAZARD SCORE AND THREAT LEVEL

Hazard

Probabilit
y (2.0)
Impact (2.0)
Final
Score

Threat
Level
Location
(0.8)
Primary
Impact
(0.7)
Secondar
y
Impact
(0.5)
Wildfire 4 (Highly
Likely)
4 (Extensive) 4 (Extreme) 4 (High) 64 High
Earthquake 3 (Likely) 4 (Extensive) 4 (Extreme) 4 (High) 48 High Drought 4 (Highly
Likely)
4 (Extensive) 3 (Severe) 4 (High) 44 High
Flood 4 (Highly
Likely)
2 (Limited) 3 (Severe) 4 (High) 36 Medium
Landslide and
Mudflow 3 (Likely) 2 (Limited) 4 (Extreme) 4 (High) 30 Medium

The following information details each of the five natural hazards addressed in the LHMP, their effect on the City in the past, and the portion of the City’s population, infrastructure, and environment that has been historically vulnerable to each specific hazard, based on available data.

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HAZARD PROFILES

WILDFIRE

Description

California experiences large, destructive wildfires almost every year and the City is no exception.

Wildfires have occurred throughout the county, ranging from small, localized fires to disastrous fires covering thousands of acres.

Wildfires burn primarily in undeveloped and natural spaces and are a common part of ecosystems across California. These fires assist in removing brush and debris from natural environments and are essential for the health of many ecosystems and the life cycles of numerous species. However, it has been standard practice since the early twentieth century to suppress naturally occurring fires in wilderness regions. This practice of suppressing fires has caused dry plant materials and other fuels to accumulate.

Simultaneously, human activity has altered the buffer zone between developed and undeveloped regions, known as the wildland-urban interface (WUI). The natural environment of a WUI may make these zones particularly appealing locations to live in. WUIs have become developed in many regions of California, albeit at lower densities than fully urbanized areas. This building activity, however, has drawn more people into wildfire-prone areas. Because of the abundance of fuel and the rising incursion into the WUI, wildfires have become one of the most prevalent and hazardous dangers in California.

Wildfires, unlike the other natural catastrophes, can be started by either natural or man-made causes.

Wildfires can be sparked by lightning, accidents, or arson. The extent and intensity of every fire is determined by the availability of fuel, meteorological conditions, and geography. Wildfires in the WUI do not have to be enormous to be destructive. Wildfires pose major threats to property and life. Smoke and other particulate matter from wildfires are hazardous to one's health, even to those not in proximity of the burn area. Because flames remove the vegetation that slows water flow and keeps slopes stabilized, burned regions may be more vulnerable to flooding and landslides.

Location and Extent

Wildfires are not measured on a precise scale, but rather by magnitude (e.g., acres burnt) or impact (buildings destroyed or damaged, injuries or deaths, cost of damage, etc.). Wildfire risk is graded on a three-tier scale of fire hazard severity zones (FHSZs): extremely high, high, and moderate. These classifications do not correlate to a precise danger or severity of fire but are more qualitative phrases that take into account a variety of elements. The agency in charge of fire prevention also classifies fire-prone locations. Federal Responsibility Areas (FRAs) are managed by federal organizations such as the US Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and the National Park Service.

The terrain of the City's San Joaquin Hills and Santa Ana Mountain foothills is highly susceptible to wildfires. Directly northeast of the City, there are natural, undisturbed hillsides/mountains. To the southwest of the City, there are open space regions. The majority of the City is situated between these two areas. Cal FIRE has labeled most of these untouched areas as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (VHFHSZ). This zone covers the Santa Ana Mountain range located in the northeastern part of the City, as shown in Figure 2.

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Figure 2 - Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones
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PAST EVENTS

Santiago Canyon Fire – On October 21, 2007, a wildfire, set by an unidentified arsonist, began in the foothills north of Irvine and spread towards the areas to the east of the City of Orange. The fire consumed more than 28,000 acres, destroyed 32 structures, and damaged 12 others, with no fatalities reported. Notably, the fire reached the backyards of residences in Foothill Ranch and Portola Hills, but no homes were lost in these communities.

Holy Fire – The Holy Fire began on August 6, 2018, in the Holy Jim Canyon area of the Cleveland National Forest as a result of arson. This fire ravaged over 23,000 acres and destroyed 24 structures.

Thousands of residents in the City were forced to evacuate and although there were no major injuries reported, its impact was felt on Lake Forest and the surrounding communities.

Silverado Fire 2– On October 26, 2020, a fire began in the City of Irvine when a lashing wire in one of Southern California Edison’s telecommunications lines sparked. The fire quickly spread, burning thousands of acres of brush and chaparral, eventually reaching nearly 13,000 acres and forcing thousands of residents to evacuate. The fire caused significant damage, destroying at least 5 structures and injuring several people.

Bond Fire – In December of 2020, the Bond Fire burned nearly 7,500 acres in the Santiago Canyon area and destroyed more than 30 structures. The fire began from an explosion at a home with an electric generator, which had propane tanks stored nearby. The fire necessitated the evacuation of 25,000 residents and injured two firefighters.

Hazard Declarations – Between 1991 and 2023, the State of California was included in 278 wildfire- related federal DR, EM, Farm Service Agency (FSA), or fire management (FM) declarations. Generally, these disasters cover a wide region of the state; therefore, they may have impacted many counties.

Orange County was included in seventeen of the federal declarations for California, therefore the City has been included in nine declarations (FEMA 2023); refer to Table 8.

Table 8: WILDFIRE DECLARATIONS INCLUDING ORANGE COUNTY BETWEEN 1991 AND 2023

Designation Number

Date Declared

Event Name
DR-1005-CA October 28, 1993 California Fires, Mud & Landslides, Soil Erosion, Flooding EM-3120-CA October 23, 1996 California Severe Fires
FSA-2405-CA May 14, 2002 California Antonio Fire
FM-2630-CA February 06, 2006 California Sierra Fire
EM-3279-CA October 23, 2007 California Wildfires
DR-1731-CA October 23, 2007 California Wildfires
FM-2683-CA March 11, 2007 California 241 Fire
FM-2737-CA October 22, 2007 California Santiago Fire
DR-1810-CA November 18, 2008 California Wildfires
FM-2792-CA November 15, 2008 California Freeway Complex Fire

2 There was another significant fire named the "Silverado Fire" that occurred in 2014, which also impacted Orange County. However, limited data is available regarding its effects and aftermath.

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FM-5213-CA September 26, 2017 California Canyon Fire
DR-4344-CA October 10, 2017 California Wildfires
FM-5268-CA August 09, 2018 California Holy Fire
FM-5380-CA October 26, 2020 California Silverado Fire
FM-5381-CA October 26, 2020 California Blue Ridge Fire
FM-5383-CA December 03, 2020 California Bond Fire
FM-5439-CA May 12, 2022 California Coastal Fire
Source: FEMA 2023

RISK OF FUTURE EVENTS

The likelihood of a wildland fire threat in the City and Orange County rises in direct proportion to the number of buildings developed in the WUI. Over time, the expanding population encroaches higher into the foothills. The expanded "interface" between urban/suburban areas and open spaces generated by new development has resulted in a major increase in fire hazards to life and property, as well as challenges to the design and capability of fire prevention systems.

The extensive history of wildfires in Orange County, as well as the presence of VHFHSZs in and around the City, underscores the tangible risk of similar incidents in the future. The immediate risk highest in the foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains and San Joaquin Hills. These areas are prone to wildfires due to their ideal conditions such as vegetation type, terrain, and climate.

CLIMATE CHANGE CONSIDERATIONS

Climate change exacerbates the risk of wildfires in the City through various mechanisms. The rise in temperatures associated with climate change is anticipated to lead to more frequent and severe drought conditions. This will likely result in greater amounts of dry plant matter available as fuel, heightening the susceptibility to wildfires statewide. Additionally, climate change may lead to an increase in the frequency of lightning strikes, a well-known ignition source for wildfires.

The City is situated in a region of Southern California that is known for Santa Ana winds. Santa Ana winds are a type of hot and dry wind that typically blows in Southern California during the fall and winter months. The winds are characterized by their strong and gusty nature and their ability to rapidly dry out vegetation, increasing the risk of wildfires. The winds are caused by high-pressure systems that develop over the Great Basin and flow towards the coast, accelerating and warming as they descend through mountain passes and canyons. Santa Ana winds can reach speeds of up to 80 miles per hour and are often accompanied by low humidity levels, making them a significant hazard to the region.

EARTHQUAKE

Description

An earthquake is the sudden movement of the earth’s surface caused by the release of stress accumulated within or along the edge of the earth’s tectonic plates, a volcanic eruption, or a manmade explosion. Most earthquakes occur at the boundaries where the earth’s tectonic plates meet (faults); less than 10% of earthquakes occur within plate interiors.

According to the United States Geological Society (USGS) Earthquake Hazards Program, an earthquake Item: 8
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hazard is any disruption associated with an earthquake that may affect residents’ normal activities. This includes surface faulting, ground shaking, landslides, liquefaction, tectonic deformation, tsunami, and seiches. Ground shaking and liquefaction are the primary causes of earthquake damage to man-made structures.

Ground Shaking: Also known as, “seismic shaking” is the ground shaking caused by an earthquake.

Plate tectonics, or the slow shifting of parts of the Earth's surface, causes earthquakes. As the pieces along fault lines travel past each other at a pace ranging from a fraction of an inch to nearly five inches per year, friction causes the portions to "stick" and stress increases. The tension ultimately overcomes the friction that holds the parts together, enabling them to suddenly slide past each other. This quick movement ruptures the fault, resulting in the ground shaking associated with an earthquake.

Faults form at the borders of vast parts of the earth's surface known as plates. This ongoing process of sticking and releasing tension, on the other hand, can deform the plate and generate faults far from the boundaries themselves. The majority of California lies on the North American plate, while the coastal areas south of San Francisco are on the Pacific plate. The major border between these plates is the San Andreas Fault, but additional fault lines can be detected up to 200 miles away. The San Andreas Fault and several other fault lines are responsible for California's regular seismic shaking and other tectonic activity.

Shaking can be powerful enough to cause widespread damage or so mild that only scientific instruments can detect it. The quantity of energy released by the fault rupture (how much of the accumulated tension was released), the length of the rupture (the longer the slide along the fault line, the greater the shaking), and the depth at which the rupture occurs all contribute to the intensity of seismic shaking (ruptures that occur closer to the surface often cause stronger shaking). The locations nearest to the rupture usually suffer the most shaking.

Buildings and structures can be damaged or destroyed by seismic shaking, which can result in partial and complete collapse. Infrastructure on or below the surface, such as roads, rail lines, power lines, and pipelines, can be harmed or destroyed by ground movement. Hazardous material leaks, water line breaks that result in flooding, threats to human and environmental health due to broken wastewater lines, and other dangerous scenarios brought on by infrastructure failure can all arise from this. There is a possibility of fatalities or serious injuries due to falling objects and structures during seismic shaking.

Liquefaction: This transpires when water-saturated, loosely packed material, such as sand or silt, is violently disturbed. The saturated substance behaves less like solid ground and more like a liquid due to the force of the shaking. The danger of liquefaction is influenced by the soil's composition as well as the height of the groundwater table. If the soil is made up of material prone to liquefaction, it may be more likely to occur in locations where the groundwater level is higher due to wetter soil.

For liquefaction to occur, soils must be saturated with water. High water table areas typically have saturated soil because the distance between the shallowest aquifer and the surface is short. Alluvial soils—soft sands, silts, and clays—are similarly prone to liquefaction since they are fine grain and do not bind well together. Any structure built on liquefied earth may sustain damage since it has lost most or all stability. During some liquefaction events, buildings may be destroyed. Utility wires buried in the ground may be damaged or destroyed by liquefied soils. Additional risk considerations are flooding (if water lines are damaged), or fire (if natural gas lines are damaged). Additionally, liquefied soils may cause mudslides.

The risk of liquefaction in Lake Forest is also directly proportional to the likelihood of an earthquake occurring. The City is in close proximity to several local faults3 that run across Orange County, increasing

3 Local Faults: According to the USGS, Lake Forest is in close proximity to several significant fault lines that could

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the possibility of seismic activity. An earthquake along any of these faults has the potential to cause significant ground shaking that can trigger liquefaction in the City.

Location and Extent

The magnitude of ground shaking is evaluated by the quantity of energy discharged by the seismic event, which is determined by the length and depth of the fault. The stronger the shaking, the longer and closer the fault rupture is to the surface. In most situations, places closest to the fault rupture experience the most seismic effects, while areas further away experience fewer tremors. Seismic shaking can cause structural damage or destruction, resulting in partial or total collapse. Ground shaking can also damage or destroy subsurface infrastructure or pipelines, potentially resulting in hazardous material spills as well as flooding if water lines burst.

The southern region of California, encompassing Lake Forest, is characterized by considerable seismic activity attributable to substantial geological fault lines. Minor faults, while present in Lake Forest, contribute minimally to the potential for seismic disturbance. Figure 3 illustrates the pronounced increase in ground shaking potential resultant from other, more significant faults.

impact the City. These include the San Andreas, Elsinore, Newport-Inglewood, San Joaquin Hills, Whittier, and Puente Hills Faults.

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The Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale, which is based on the amount of documented damage, is Figure 3 - Lake Forest Ground Shaking Potential
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typically used to gauge the intensity of seismic shaking. The Richter scale was superseded by the MMI scale because it was no longer accurate for measuring greater earthquakes. Different parts of a city or area may report varying MMI measures at various locations because the intensity of the shaking and, subsequently, the extent of the damage, often diminishes as the seismic energy moves farther from the point of origin of the fault rupture. Given the size of Lake Forest, it is conceivable that different areas of the City would record varying MMI readings. Roman numerals on a 12-point scale are used to represent each degree of shaking intensity on the MMI scale as shown on Table 9 below.

Table 9: MII SCALE
Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale
Value Shaking Description
I Not felt Not felt, except by a very few under especially favorable conditions.

II Weak Felt only by a few persons at rest, especially on upper floors of buildings.

III Weak
Felt quite noticeably by persons indoors, especially on upper floors of buildings.

Many people do not recognize it as an earthquake. Standing motor cars may rock slightly. Vibrations similar to the passing of a truck. Duration estimated.

IV Light
Felt indoors by many, outdoors by few during the day. At night, some awakened.

Dishes, windows, doors disturbed; walls make cracking sound. Sensation like heavy truck striking building. Standing motor cars rocked noticeably.

V Moderate Felt by nearly everyone; many awakened. Some dishes, windows broken.

Unstable objects overturned. Pendulum clocks may stop.

VI Strong Felt by all, many frightened. Some heavy furniture moved; a few instances of fallen plaster. Damage slight.

VII Very Strong
Damage negligible in buildings of good design and construction; slight to moderate in well-built ordinary structures; considerable damage in poorly built or badly designed structures; some chimneys broken.

VIII Severe
Damage slight in specially designed structures; considerable damage in ordinary substantial buildings with partial collapse. Damage great in poorly built structures.

Fall of chimneys, factory stacks, columns, monuments, walls. Heavy furniture overturned.

IX Violent
Damage considerable in specially designed structures; well-designed frame structures thrown out of plumb. Damage great in substantial buildings, with partial collapse. Buildings shifted off foundations.

X Extreme
Most masonry and frame structures destroyed with their foundations. Some well- built wooden structures and bridges destroyed. Serious damage to dams, dikes, embankments. Large landslides. Water thrown on banks of canals, rivers, lakes, etc. Sand and mud shifted horizontally on beaches and flat land. Rails bent slightly.

Liquefaction events do not have a scale of measurement; however, other factors such as soil type, the strength of ground shaking in the area of liquefaction, size of the affected area, and degree of destruction as a result of the liquefaction can be used to assess the extent of damage associated with a liquefaction event. Figure 4 below displays the liquefaction hazard zones for the City of Lake Forest.

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Past Events

As of September 2023, the City has a very high earthquake risk, with a total of 7,966 earthquakes since Figure 4 - Liquefaction Hazard Zones
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1931. The largest earthquake in recent history within 30 miles of the City was a 5.5 Magnitude. The Chino Hills Earthquake struck Southern California on July 29, 2008, causing damage to structures and eight injuries across the region. Despite being 30 miles from the epicenter, Lake Forest experienced shaking and structural damage including cracked walls, broken windows, and damaged chimneys, in residential and commercial buildings. The earthquake caused temporary power outages and gas leaks, leading to emergency repairs.

Despite the relatively moderate effects of the 2008 Chino Hills Earthquake on the City, the event underscores the region's susceptibility to seismic activity and highlights the ongoing risk earthquakes pose to the Community.

Hazard Declarations – Between 1991 and 2023, the State of California was included in 14 earthquake- related federal DR, EM declarations. Generally, these disasters cover a wide region of the state; therefore, they may have impacted many counties. However, Orange County was not included in any DRs or Ems, therefore the City has not been included in any declarations (FEMA 2023).

Risk of Future Events

In 2015, a study by the USGS, California Geological Survey, and the Southern California Earthquake Center, the third Uniform California Earthquake Rupture Forecast, calculated the probability of a future earthquake on a variety of fault systems. The study suggests a probability of 50% or higher for the occurrence of an earthquake with a magnitude ranging from 5.0 to 6.1 within a 51-mile radius of the City over the next 50 years. Additional information on the implications of this study for the City of Lake Forest is available in Figure 5 below.

Figure 5 - Projected Earthquake Probability for Lake Forest, CA Item: 8
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The City is located in a seismically active zone. Given its history and its proximity to significant fault lines, it is highly likely that it will experience major seismic events in the future. The presence of major faults in the region suggests an imminent risk of substantial seismic shaking.

Climate Change Considerations

There is no evidence of a relationship between climate change and seismic activity that might alter conditions in the City. Therefore, climate change is not likely to change the frequency or intensity of earthquake occurrences. However, variations in precipitation patterns may influence groundwater levels, which may affect the vulnerability of the City soils to liquefaction. Nevertheless, there are no records of liquefaction episodes within the City, and it is uncertain if climate change will have any influence on liquefaction. There is no evidence of a direct relationship between climate change and earthquake occurrences that cause liquefaction.

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FLOODS

Description

Flooding can occur following periods of excessive rainfall, whether as a single severe event or as a succession of storms. Flooding can also result from the failure of a water control structure, such as a levee or dam failure or from debris that jam a river or stream causing it to overflow onto the surrounding area. If precipitation exceeds the capacity of drainage and stream channels, they may flood their banks and shores. Flooding is likely when heavy rain falls in a region where the ground is already wet. The existence of pavement and other impermeable surfaces in urbanized regions means that the earth is less able to absorb water.

Floods endanger communities and public safety in a variety of ways. Flooding may damage property, ruin homes, transport automobiles, and other large objects. Floodwater can wash away topsoil and plants, causing erosion. Floodwater may obstruct the mobility of flood victims or first responders seeking to reach persons in need of assistance.

Location and Extent

Floods within Lake Forest are influenced by several waterways, including Borrego Canyon Wash, Serrano Creek, and Aliso Creek, among others. These floods are characterized by their predicted frequency, such as a 100-year or 500-year event. Specifically, a 100-year flood indicates a 1% probability (1 in 100) of the event occurring in any given year, while a 500-year flood represents a 0.2% likelihood (1 in 500). Notably, 100-year floods are considered significant and are often referred to as "base floods." The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is responsible for mapping flood zones, as depicted in Figures 6 and 7, which highlight these zones within Lake Forest.

Flood plains are areas that flood frequently and are classified by the intensity of the flood projected. The 100-year flood plain, for example, refers to a region that may be flooded by a 100-year flood. In principle, any location can be flooded if the flood event is strong enough, but low-lying regions near natural or man-made bodies of water are most vulnerable. FEMA defines flood plains as follows: the 100-year flood plain (or "special flood hazard area"), the area outside of the 100-year flood plain but within the 500-year flood plain (or "moderate flood hazard area"), and the area outside of the 500-year flood plain (or "minimum flood hazard area"). Table 10 below shows these detailed flood plain categories.

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Table 10: FEMA FLOOD PLAIN CATEGORIES
Category Description
A Within a 100-year flood plain, but the water height of the 100-year flood is not known.

A1-30 or AE Within a 100-year flood plain and the water height of the 100-year flood is known.

AO Within a 100-year flood plain, and the water height of the 100-year flood is between one and three feet but not specifically known.

A99 Within a 100-year flood plain, protected by flood protection infrastructure such as dams or levees.

AH Within a 100-year flood plain, and the water height of the 100-year flood is between one and three feet and is specifically known.

AR Within a 100-year flood plain, protected by flood protection infrastructure that is not currently effective, but is being rebuilt to provide protection.

V Within a 100-year flood plain for coastal floods, but the water height of the flood is not known.

V1-30 or VE Within a 100-year flood plain for coastal floods and the water height of the flood is known.

VO Within a 100-year flood plain for shallow coastal floods with a height between one and three feet.

B Within a 500-year flood plain, or within a 100-year flood plain with a water height less than one foot
(found on older maps)
C Outside of the 500-year flood plain (found on older maps) X Outside of the 500-year flood plain (found on newer maps) X500 Within a 500-year flood plain, or within a 100-year flood plain with a water height less than one foot (found on newer maps)
D Within an area with a potential and undetermined flood hazard.

M Within an area at risk of mudslides from a 100-year flood event.

N Within an area at risk of mudslides from a 500-year flood event.

P Within an area at risk of mudslides from a potential and undetermined flood event.

E Within an area at risk of erosion from a 100-year flood event.

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Figure 6 - Lake Forest 100 Year Flood Hazard Areas

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Figure 7 - Lake Forest Flood Hazard Zones

Past Events
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Although the City itself does not have a long and extensive history of major flooding, the wider Orange County area has experienced several instances of flooding throughout its history. The County covers 948 square miles, including mountain terrain and floodplains, which have been significantly affected by the region's rapid urbanization and transformation from an agriculturally based community.

Following prolonged periods of rain in the past, Orange County has been prone to devastating floods that impacted the entire region. In 1938, Southern California experienced its worst flood when several inches of rain fell over three days, leading to the overflow of the Santa Ana River and flooding in areas of Fullerton and Anaheim, as highlighted in Table 11.

While there is a countywide system of flood control facilities in place, many of these are inadequate for conveying runoff from major storms and the frequency of very large floods further compounds the County's flood hazard. Severe storms have occurred less than 10 times in the past 175 years, making it challenging to accurately assess the risk of flooding. Nonetheless, major floods in Orange County are documented in Table 11, demonstrating the potential for significant flooding events in the area.

Table 11: ORANGE COUNTY MAJOR FLOOD EVENTS
Date Description
1770, Jan. • Information regarding this flood is gathered from Father Juan Crespi's diary. 1780, Dec. • Information regarding this flood is gathered from Father Juan Crespi's diary. 1825 • Greatest flood of the previous 100 years.
• Santa Ana River changed its main course from Anaheim Bay to Newport Bay. 1862, Jan. • The greatest flood in California's history. • The rain began on Christmas Eve 1861 and continued for 30 days. The sun shone for a
• total of 45 minutes in that thirty-day period.
• Fifty inches of rain fell during December and January. • Water ran four feet deep through downtown Anaheim.
1862 • During the great flood, the entire population of Agua Mansa survived in a small church, where granite monuments marked the highest water level. In 1967, archeologists found the Agua Mansa Mission foundation near Route 60 in Riverside. Water surface data from mission monuments and old irrigation works allowed for a flow calculation of 315,000 Cubic Feet Per Second (cfs) at Agua Mansa. With nearly 700 square miles tributary to Prado Dam downstream, the estimated flow in Santa Ana Canyon was 400,000 cfs. 1884, Feb. • Santa Ana River created a new ocean outlet 1888-1891 • Annual floods
1914 • Heavy flooding
1916 • Hundreds of square miles inundated Orange County. The flow in the Santa Ana River was about 75,000 cfs, overflowing into Anaheim Bay. • Santiago Creek overflowed into El Modena and Tustin.
1921 • Flooding
1927 • Moderate Flood
1938, Mar. • Devastation to all of Orange County.
• Greatest flood since 1862 - about 100,000 cfs in Santa Ana River. • 22" of rain fell in 5 days in the San Bernardino Mountains. • Santa Ana River levees failed in many places and waters flowed into Anaheim Bay.
• 34 lives lost in Orange County.

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• Damage reached $14 million (1938).
1969 • Great damage, especially to governmental infrastructure. • The January storm was the greatest since 1938. There was one heavy flood after a 9-day storm and another moderate flood.
• February storm greater than January but both were moderate intensity, long duration (i.e., large volume) events. 1-hour intensity and 24-hour volume. • Prado Dam inflow: 77,000 cfs, outflow 6,000 cfs.
• Maximum Santa Ana River capacity is 40,000 cfs.
• 1 ¬Ω million cubic yards of sediment carried by Santa Ana River nearly caused levee failure due to the invert rising over five feet near the river mouth. • Prado Dam was 60% filled.
1974 • 100-year rainfall along the coast of Orange County. • Damage limited by substantial flood control improvements and 3-hour duration of high intensity rainfall.
1983 • Damaging record-breaking storm.
• 6-hours in duration, covering about 100 square miles of western Orange County. • Severe property damage in Huntington Beach, Fountain Valley, and Costa Mesa. • The storm influenced the criteria published in the 1986 Orange County Hydrology Manual.
1995 • A very damaging storm with record breaking intensities for 2 - and 3-hour duration 1997 • The most severe storm ever measured in Orange County. • New records set for 30-minute, 1 hour, 2-hour, 3-hour, 6-hour, 12-hour, and 24-hour rainfall.
• Severe damage to Laguna Beach, Lake Forest, Irvine, and to the I-5 Freeway. • 100-year rainfall covered over 200 square miles of our 948 square mile county. • This storm and the similar (but slightly less severe) 1983 and 1995 events revealed vulnerability of older flood control facilities built. It was thought this type of intense storm was too rare to consider protective measures.
• Too many record-breaking storms hit in too short a period. 2005 • A series of "Pineapple Express" storms in January and February were the most significant since El Nino of 1998, causing mud flows and flooding throughout Orange County.
• Both state proclamations and federal declarations of disaster were made for these storms.
2010 • Significant storms occurring in January and December resulted in damage from flooding and mud flows in Laguna Beach.
• Levee damage occurred in San Juan Capistrano along Trabuco Creek. 2019 • Significant storm occurred in February which resulted in channel lining failures in Laguna Beach alongside Laguna Canyon Rd and San Juan Capistrano alongside Trabuco Creek Rd.

Source: Santa Ana River Mainstem Project – OC Public Works/Santa Ana River Division

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National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) History – The NFIP makes federally backed flood insurance available to homeowners, renters, and business owners in participating communities. For most communities participating in the NFIP, FEMA has prepared a detailed Flood Insurance Study. The study presents water surface elevations for floods of various magnitudes, including the 1-percent annual chance flood and the 0.2-percent annual chance flood (the 500-year flood). Base flood elevations and the boundaries of the 100- and 500-year floodplains are shown on Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs).

Lake Forest entered the NFIP on September 15, 1994. The date of the City’s current effective FIRM is December 03, 2009. As a participant in the NFIP, the City must, at a minimum, regulate development in its floodplain areas in accordance with NFIP criteria. Before a permit to build in a floodplain area is issued, the City must ensure that two basic criteria are met:
• All new buildings and developments undergoing substantial improvements must, at a minimum, be elevated to protect against damage by the 100-year flood. • New floodplain development must not worsen existing flood problems or increase damage to other properties.

Properties constructed after a FIRM has been adopted are eligible for reduced flood insurance rates.

Such structures are less vulnerable to flooding since they were constructed after regulations and codes were adopted to decrease vulnerability. Properties built before the FIRM was adopted may be more vulnerable to flooding and related damage because they do not meet code or are located in hazardous areas).

Implementation and Enforcement of Local Flood Management Regulations – The City of Lake Forest implements and enforces local flood management regulations to regulate and permit development in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA). The City's floodplain management regulations are designed to minimize the risk of flood damage to new and existing structures within the SFHA. These regulations include requirements for elevation, floodproofing, and other measures to reduce flood risk. The City's Building Division is responsible for reviewing building permit applications and ensuring compliance with the City's floodplain management regulations.

It should be noted that the City of Lake Forest does not currently have any mapped SFHAs within its jurisdiction. However, the City recognizes the importance of maintaining and enforcing its floodplain management regulations to ensure that future development does not increase the risk of flooding.

Appointment of NFIP Designee – The Director of Public Works for the City of Lake Forest is designated as the official responsible for implementing the addressed commitments and requirements of the NFIP.

The Director of Public Works oversees the City's floodplain management program and ensures that the City remains in compliance with NFIP regulations.

Implementation of Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage Provisions – In the event of a flood, the City of Lake Forest will implement the substantial improvement/substantial damage provisions of its floodplain management regulations. These provisions require that any structure located within the SFHA that sustains damage or undergoes improvements that exceed 50% of the structure's market value must be brought into compliance with the City's floodplain management regulations. This may include elevating the structure, floodproofing, or other measures to reduce flood risk.

The City's Building Division will be responsible for conducting damage assessments and determining whether a structure has sustained substantial damage or is undergoing substantial improvements.

Property owners will be required to obtain building permits and comply with the City's floodplain management regulations before rebuilding or repairing damaged structures.

National Flood Insurance Program Loss Analysis – A repetitive loss property is defined by FEMA as an NFIP-insured property that has experienced any of the following since 1978, regardless of any Item: 8
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changes in ownership:
• Four or more paid losses in excess of $1,000
• Two paid losses in excess of $1,000 within any rolling 10-year period • Three or more paid losses that equal or exceed the current value of the insured property.

A severe repetitive loss property is further defined as follows:
• Four or more paid losses in excess of $5,000 each, with the cumulative amount of such claim payments exceeding $20,000
• At least two separate claim payments made, with the cumulative amount of the building portion of such claims exceeding the market value of the building
• At least two of the above referenced claims occurring within any rolling 10-year period and more than 10 days apart.

Several federal government programs encourage communities to identify and mitigate “repetitive loss” properties. Nationwide, repetitive loss properties make up only 1 to 2 percent of the flood insurance policies currently in force, yet they account for 40 percent of the flood insurance claim payments. A report on repetitive loss structures by the National Wildlife Federation found that 20 percent of these structures are listed as outside the 100-year floodplain. In 1998, FEMA reported that the NFIP’s 75,000 repetitive loss structures had already cost $2.8 billion in flood insurance payments.

FEMA identifies repetitive loss structures based on flood insurance payments. A repetitive loss area is the portion of the floodplain where numerous buildings have been subject to repetitive flooding. The purpose of identifying repetitive loss areas is to identify structures that are subject to the same risk but are not on FEMA’s list because a flood insurance policy was not in force at the time of loss.

The City of Lake Forest does not participate in the Community Rating System (CRS) program. This is largely due to the city's successful management of flood risk, as evidenced by the absence of reported repetitive loss properties within its jurisdiction.

Since there are no repetitive loss properties in Lake Forest, the City has not had to engage in the intensive flood projects that are common in other areas. This situation is beneficial for both the residents of Lake Forest and federal flood insurance programs, as it minimizes the financial and emotional toll of flood-related damages and reduces the reliance on post-disaster assistance from the federal government and taxpayers.

Hazard Declarations – Between 1991 and 2023, the State of California was included in 9 flood-related federal DR, EM declarations. Generally, these disasters cover a wide region of the state; therefore, they may have impacted many counties. Orange County was included in six of the federal declarations for California, therefore the City has been included in six declarations (FEMA 2023); refer to Table 12.

Table 12: FLOOD DECLARATIONS INCLUDING ORANGE COUNTY BETWEEN 1991 AND 2023

Designation Number

Date Declared

Event Name
DR-935-CA February 10, 1992 California Snow Storm, Heavy Rain, High Winds, Flooding, Mudslide
DR-979-CA February 03, 1993 California Severe Storm, Winter Storm, Mud & Landslides, Flooding
DR-1952-CA February 02, 1998 California Severe Winter Storms and Flooding Item: 8
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DR-4305-CA March 16, 2017 Severe Winter Storms, Flooding, and Mudslides DR-3591-CA January 09, 2023 California Severe Storms, Flooding, and Mudslides DR-3592-CA March 10, 2023 California Severe Winter Storms, Flooding, Landslides, and Mudslides
Source: FEMA 2023

Risk of Future Events

Although the City has not experienced significant flooding events in the past, it is essential to note that the risk of flooding is still present. This is particularly true for areas near creek beds, which can overflow during heavy rainfall, posing a significant threat to nearby residents and infrastructure.

Orange County has a documented history of flooding events, as shown in prior disasters. The regular occurrence of heavy rainfall that produces floods is expected to continue in the region, including the City, making it crucial to consider flood hazards in any hazard mitigation plan.

Climate Change Considerations

Climate change is expected to have a significant impact on flooding in the City and the surrounding areas. The extent of these impacts will depend on several factors, including the local topography, land use patterns, and infrastructure. One of the significant impacts of climate change is rising temperatures, which can lead to more intense rainfall events and an increased risk of flash flooding in areas with poor drainage.

Furthermore, changes in snowmelt patterns can increase the risk of flooding during heavy rain events.

The Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, which provides much of Southern California's water supply, is particularly vulnerable to these changes. As temperatures rise, snowmelt occurs earlier, leading to earlier runoff and lower water availability during the summer months. Earlier and more rapid snowmelt leads to higher water flow in rivers and streams. When this coincides with heavy rainfall, it can overwhelm watercourses, causing flooding. Altered snowmelt patterns can also saturate soil, reducing its capacity to absorb rainwater and increasing runoff. Moreover, these changes can impact vegetation, which stabilizes soil and absorbs excess water, further exacerbating flood risks. These factors highlight the need for effective flood management and adaptation strategies to protect communities and ecosystems.

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DROUGHT

Description

Drought, unlike other natural disasters, does not emerge suddenly and catastrophically. Because drought may last for years, determining when a drought begins and ends is challenging. A drought is defined as a lengthy period of exceptionally low precipitation that has negative consequences for humans, vegetation, and animals. A drought is a transient phenomenon, as opposed to aridity, which is a climatic condition of a certain place. Droughts occur regularly in all climatic zones, although some locations are more prone to drought than others.

Drought primes conditions for a variety of other hazards, indirectly damaging the soil by drying it out and reducing its capacity to absorb water. Thus, when precipitation returns, the soil is less likely to hold onto water, increasing runoff and the risk of floods. Due to the soil’s reduced ability to bond together, dry earth is more prone to erosion and landslides. In addition, the lack of precipitation affects plants and other vegetation in natural places as the lack of nutrients makes them more vulnerable to pests and diseases thereby raising the susceptibility to wildfires.

Location and Extent

Drought can occur regionally across the City, Orange County, and Southern California. Droughts are a recurring feature of California’s climate, but climate change is projected to increase the frequency, intensity, and duration of droughts. The U.S. Drought Monitor is a map released every Thursday, showing parts of the U.S. that are in drought. There are numerous scales for measuring drought conditions, although one of the most common is the US Drought Monitor Classification Scheme. This rating system is a synthesis of multiple different scales into a descriptive index, shown in Table 13 below.

Table 8: US DROUGHT MONITOR CLASSIFICATION SCHEME
Category Description Possible Impacts
D0* Abnormally dry Slower growth of crops and pastures.

D1

Moderate drought
Some damage to crops and pastures. Water bodies and wells are low. Some water shortages may occur or may be imminent.

Voluntary water uses restrictions can be requested.

D2 Severe drought Likely crop and pasture losses. Water shortages are common, and water restrictions can be imposed.

D3 Extreme drought Major crop and pasture losses. Widespread water shortages and restrictions.

D4 Exceptional drought Exceptional and widespread crop and pasture losses. Emergency water shortages develop.

Figure 8 showcases the Classification Scheme and the various drought conditions that the City and State of California are in as of February 2023.

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Figure 8 - Statewide Drought Conditions as of February 2023

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Past Events

Drought is an enduring characteristic of California's climatic conditions, with a historical record of significant drought events that have varying intensity, duration, and recurrence. The "Great Drought" of 1863 and 1864 was a devastating event that impacted the cattle industry throughout the state and contributed to the hastening of rancho land grants. Similarly, the "Dustbowl Droughts" from 1928 to 1935 brought forth severe damage to agriculture, prompting the modernization of California's water infrastructure.

The 1976-1977 drought event lowered reservoir levels throughout California and spurred water conservation practices that continue to date. The state has faced significant drought events in recent times, including those that occurred from 1987 to 1992 and from 2007 to 2009, resulting in adverse effects on agriculture, the environment, and public health.

The most recent drought began in 2012 and lasted until 2017. The entire state was affected, and by 2014, it had been deemed the worst drought in 1,200 years. The intensity of the drought conditions during the past 20 years is depicted in the image below. Nearly the whole state of California was suffering D2 (extreme drought) conditions by the summer of 2014. D4 (Exceptional Drought) conditions were observed in the City, all of Orange County, and more than 75% of California Figure 9.

Figure 9 - Drought History (2004 - 2023)

Figure 10 - Drought History (2004 - 2023)
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Hazard Declarations – Between 1991 and 2023, the State of California was included one drought- related federal EM declaration. Generally, these disasters cover a wide region of the state; therefore, they may have impacted many counties. However, Orange County was not included in that EM, therefore the City has been included in one declaration (FEMA 2023).

Risk of Future Events

Drought is a phenomenon that has wide-ranging impacts across various sectors of the economy, which extend beyond the physical location experiencing water scarcity. The impacts of drought are intricate and multifaceted, posing a complex web of challenges to diverse industries and society at large.

One of the significant impacts of drought is to the agricultural sector, which heavily depends on water for irrigation. During drought, reduced water availability leads to crop failures, low yields, and diminished productivity, resulting in severe financial losses for farmers. This has ripple effects on the food industry, leading to decreased crop availability, reduced quality of produce, and increased food prices.

Apart from the agricultural sector, drought also has ramifications on other industries such as tourism, manufacturing, and energy production. For example, hydroelectric power plants, which rely on water to generate electricity, experience decreased energy production during a drought. Additionally, recreational activities such as boating and fishing, which rely on water bodies such as lakes and rivers, can be significantly affected, leading to reduced tourism and related economic activities.

Moreover, drought can have profound environmental and social impacts. Reduced water availability can lead to the decline of biodiversity, harm to wildlife habitats, and increased risk of wildfires, among other environmental concerns. Socially, drought can lead to social tensions and conflicts as different sectors of society compete for limited water resources, with the most vulnerable communities hit the hardest.

The threat of drought is expected to persist in California, including the City, for the foreseeable future.

Most drought events are heavily influenced by global meteorological phenomena, which vary from year to year, making it challenging to predict the frequency and severity of future drought episodes.

Climate Change Considerations

Climate change is also expected to increase the average temperature and could cause increased evaporation and water loss from soils and plants, exacerbating drought conditions and reducing water availability for agriculture, urban areas, and ecosystems. Changes in precipitation patterns can also result in less frequent but more intense rainfall events, increasing the risk of flash floods and soil erosion.

However, this may not necessarily alleviate drought conditions. Declining snowpack in the Sierra Nevada Mountain range can also reduce water availability during the summer months, further exacerbating drought conditions and limiting water availability for urban areas and agriculture. During these events, water supplies may be diverted for cooling functions in the City. Hotter temperatures may also lead to increased surface water evaporation which could lead to greater water consumption. Additionally, rising sea levels can also cause saltwater intrusion, contaminating freshwater sources and reducing water availability.

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SLOPE FAILURE / LANDSLIDE

Description

Landslides are a general term for the movement of rock, soil, or other materials down a slope. They can be caused by a variety of factors including heavy rain, earthquakes, drought, and human activities such as logging and mining. Landslides can range in size from small, localized events to large devastating events that can impact entire communities.

Landslides can occur suddenly and without warning, making them particularly dangerous. When a landslide occurs, it can cause significant damage to homes, businesses, roads, bridges, and other infrastructure. In addition, landslides can lead to loss of life and injury, as well as displacement of residents. The effects of landslides can be particularly devastating in areas with steep slopes or loose soils. In these areas, even small amounts of rainfall can trigger a landslide. In addition, areas that have been impacted by natural disasters such as earthquakes or wildfires are also at increased risk of landslides as the ground can become unstable due to the loss of vegetation or other factors.

Location and Extent

The steeper areas in the foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains to the northeast and the San Joaquin Hills to the southwest of the City are at risk of experiencing landslides. These areas have steep topography and geologic formations that can become unsteady. Despite this, these areas are considered to have a low to moderate risk of landslides due to seismic conditions. The likelihood of a landslide occurring under other circumstances is low (as per the Department of Conservation, 1976). Although no standard method for measuring landslides exists, the magnitude of these events is often assessed by the amount of material that has shifted (i.e., cubic feet of earth).

Locations at risk from landslides or debris flows include areas with one or more of the following conditions:

• On or close to steep hills
• Steep road cuts or excavations
• Areas with existing landslides or places historically prone to landslides. Indicators at such sites often include tilted power lines, trees slanting in various directions, visible cracks in the ground, and irregular ground surfaces
• Steep areas where surface runoff is channeled, such as below culverts, V-shaped valleys, canyon bottoms, and steep stream channels
• Fan-shaped areas of sediment and boulder accumulation at the outlets of canyons • Canyon areas below hillside and mountains that have recently (within 1-6 years) been subjected to a wildland fire

Past Events

The City of Lake Forest has been fortunate enough to not have been significantly impacted by this threat.

Unfortunately, nearby communities located in the unincorporated County area and other local cities have experienced significant land movement. The following landslide accounts comprise only a fraction of the landslide history throughout Orange County and Southern California over the past 20 years. These are provided as a sample for mitigation planning.

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2005 Bluebird Canyon Landslide - The Bluebird Canyon landslide in Laguna Beach, California, consisted of a bedrock mass that was 60 to 80 feet deep. Five injuries were confirmed, and 28 homes were either destroyed or severely damaged; over 375 homes were directly affected. Rainfall in typical years leading up to the landslide averaged about 12.6 inches of rain, but from July 1, 2004, up until the landslide, there was twice as much rainfall—27.85 inches. Additionally, there were allegations that a home under construction at the time may have contributed to the landslide. Private property damage was estimated between $15 million and $23 million. Over 500 feet of roadway and parallel utilities were destroyed. Waterlines, sewers and storm drains were destroyed.

2007-2008 Post-Santiago Fire Debris Flows - After the Santiago Fire stripped the vegetation bare in the canyon communities of Orange County, a debris flow task force was convened to address the potential impact that post-fire winter storms could have on the slopes in the burn areas. There were several cases of mudflows that damaged homes in the Modjeska Canyon area.

2008-2009 Post Freeway Complex Fire Debris Flows - After the Freeway Complex fire stripped the vegetation bare in the communities of Yorba Linda and Brea, a debris flow task force was convened to address the potential impact that post-fire winter storms could have on the slopes in the burn areas.

There were several cases of debris flows in the following winters in Yorba Linda and Brea.

2010 Winter Storm Mud Flows - In December 2010, a series of storms passed over Orange County, dropping several inches of rain and triggering a series of mud and debris flows in Orange County canyon and coastal areas. While not specifically associated with a fire or other event, these slides tended to occur in areas already identified as being prone to such activity.

2014-2016 Post Silverado Fire Debris Flows - Following the Silverado Fire in 2014, similar conditions were generated in the Silverado Canyon area of Orange County. There were several cases of small debris and mud flows in canyon areas for the next two winters.

2017-2018 Post Canyon 2 Debris Flows - Following the Canyon 2 Fire in 2017, a debris flow task force was convened to address the potential impact that post-fire winter storms could have on the slopes in the burn areas and impacts to Anaheim, Orange and unincorporated areas. There were several cases of small debris and mud flows over the next two winters.

2018-2019 Post Holy Fire Debris Flows - Following the Holy Fire in 2018, a debris flow task force was convened to address the potential impact that post-fire winter storms could have on the slopes in the burn areas and impacts to the Trabuco canyon areas. Several significant debris flows occurred in the winter months of 2018-2019 in the area of Trabuco Creek.

2020-2021 Post Bond Fire Debris Flows - Following the Bond Fire in 2020, a debris flow task force was convened to address the potential impact that post-fire winter storms could have on the slopes in the burn areas and impacts to the Silverado, Williams, and Modjeska Canyon areas. A few small debris and mud flows occurred in the canyon areas from subsequent storms.

Hazard Declarations – Between 1991 and 2023, specific data on the number of landslide-related federal disaster and emergency declarations in the State of California is not readily availble. Generally, these disasters is a consequence of a larger natural hazards that cover a wide region of the state; therefore, they may have impacted many counties. Orange County was included in six of the federal declarations for California, therefore the City has been included in six declarations (FEMA 2023); refer to Table 14.

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Table14: LANDSLIDE DECLARATIONS INCLUDING ORANGE COUNTY BETWEEN 1991 AND 2023

Designation Number

Date Declared

Event Name
DR-935-CA February 10, 1992 California Snow Storm, Heavy Rain, High Winds, Flooding, Mudslide
DR-979-CA February 03, 1993 California Severe Storm, Winter Storm, Mud & Landslides, Flooding
DR-1005-CA October 28, 1993 California Fires, Mud & Landslides, Soil Erosion, Flooding DR-4305-CA March 16, 2017 Severe Winter Storms, Flooding, and Mudslides DR-3591-CA January 09, 2023 California Severe Storms, Flooding, and Mudslides DR-3592-CA March 10, 2023 California Severe Winter Storms, Flooding, Landslides, and Mudslides
Source: FEMA 2023

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Risk of Future Events

In the City of Lake Forest, the risk of future landslides is closely tied to distinct environmental conditions and landscape features. The city, nestled against the foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains and San Joaquin Hills, is characterized by steep slopes and loose and expansive soil, which are particularly prone to instability under certain conditions. This inherent vulnerability is compounded by factors like the region's susceptibility to heavy rainfall events, the frequency of wildfires that strip vegetation and destabilize soil, and the occasional seismic activity associated with the area's geology.

These conditions converge to create a landscape where landslides are a significant concern. For instance, in areas with steep terrain, heavy rain can lead to rapid soil saturation, increasing the likelihood of soil and rock movement. Similarly, in regions recovering from wildfires, the absence of root systems, which normally help to bind and stabilize the soil, makes these slopes particularly susceptible to landslides during rainstorms. Additionally, seismic events, even those of moderate intensity, can weaken already precarious hillside areas, setting the stage for future landslides.

The combination of these specific environmental factors – steep and varied terrain, soil types prone to instability when wet or destabilized, patterns of heavy rainfall, post-wildfire landscapes, and seismic activity – creates a situation in Lake Forest where the potential for landslides is an ongoing concern.

Climate Change Considerations

While there is no known link between climate change and seismic activity, such as earthquakes, due to the variety of factors that lead to landslides, it is possible that climate change could indirectly affect the conditions for landslides. Specifically, on moisture-induced and fire-induced landslides.

As a consequence of climate change, atmospheric river storms are expected to become more intense, leading to increased precipitation that can destabilize hillsides and increase the frequency of landslide events. Furthermore, warmer temperatures and more frequent drought conditions may lead to more fires, which could destabilize soils and make future landslide events more likely.

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CHAPTER 4

THREAT AND VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENTS

The previous chapter of the LHMP evaluated various hazards and their impacts on Lake Forest, including people, structures, ecosystems, services, and other community assets. The frequency and scope of these hazards also determine their effects on the area. While Chapter 3 analyzed the risks of these hazards, this chapter assesses their overall threat and identifies specific populations and physical assets that may be at risk. Additionally, this chapter examines the vulnerability of Lake Forest based on the risk and threat assessments.

THREAT ASSESSMENT PROCESS
The threat assessment conducted within this chapter rigorously evaluates three fundamental aspects of each hazard. Specifically, the assessment considers the potential physical threat posed to critical facilities and facilities of concern, the associated social threats4 to vulnerable populations, as well as the overall threat to any other community assets that may be affected by the hazard.

CRITICAL FACILITIES AND FACILITIES OF CONCERN
Critical facilities represent integral properties that are essential to the efficient functioning of the municipal government and the well -being of the Lake Forest community. This category encompasses various assets, such as City administration buildings, public safety structures (e.g., police and fire stations), water tanks and pumps . Conversely, facilities of concern, while less vital to the safety and well -being of the City, can serve as assembly points, temporary shelters, or support systems in the event of a hazard. Facilities of concern can play a critical role in facilitating evacuations and overall preparedness and recovery efforts. It is noteworthy that both critical facilities and facilities of concern may be owned by the City, other agencies, or private entities.

The Working Group identified 2 5 critical facilities and 2 facilities of concern for incorporation into the threat and vulnerability assessment. Table 15 and Figure 10 provide amplifying information to the facility’s ownership, location, and classification.

4 Social threat: Encompasses the socioeconomic and demographic elements that have an impact on the resilience of communities.

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Table 15: CRITICAL FACILITIES AND FACILITIES OF CONCERN Map
ID Name Type
Owner/
Responsible
Agency
Location Critical
Facility
Facility of
Concern
Response and Services Infrastructure
1 Lake Forest Civic Center (City
Hall, Police Services, EOC,
Senior Center, and Community
Center)
Government City 100 Civic Center Dr.

Lake Forest X
2 Lake Forest Sports Park
Recreation Center
Government City 28000 Vista Terrace
Lake Forest X
3 OCFA Station 19 Fire Station OCFA 23022 El Toro Road
Lake Forest X
4 OCFA Station 42 Fire Station OCFA 19150 Ridgeline Road Trabuco Canyon X
5 OCFA Station 54 Fire Station OCFA 19811 Pauling Avenue Lake Forest X
6 El Toro High School Public School SVUSD 25255 Toledo Way Lake Forest X
7 Saddleback Church Church Saddleback
Church
1 Saddleback Parkway
Lake Forest X
8 El Toro Water District
Headquarters
Water /
Wastewater
Headquarters
ETWD 24251 Los Alisos Blvd.

Lake Forest X
Utility Infrastructure
9 Baker Water Treatment Plant Water IRWD 21082 Wisteria, Lake Forest X
10 Los Alisos Water Recycling
Plant
Sewer IRWD 22312 Muirlands
Boulevard, Lake
Forest
X

11 Dimension Water Treatment
Plant
Water TCWD 20904 Dimension
Drive, Lake Forest X
12 Sewer Lift Station Sewer TCWD 19862 El Toro Rd,
Silverado, CA 92676 X
13 Ridgeline Pump Station Water TCWD 19121 El Toro Rd,
Silverado, CA 92676 X
14 El Toro Pump Station Water TCWD 19061 Live Oak
Canyon Rd X
15 Sewer Lift Stations Sewer City 25420 Jeronimo Rd,
Lake Forest, CA X
16 Sewer Lift Stations Sewer City 22001 Tamarisk Lake
Forest, CA X
17 Irrigation Pump Water City 23102 Ridge Rte Dr,
Lake Forest X
18 R-5 (Reservoir at the Pheasant
Creek apartments off of El Toro
and Portola)

Sewer ETWD 20732 El Toro Road,
Lake Forest X

19 Shenandoah Pump Station Water ETWD 21808 El Toro Road, Lake Forest X
20 Cherry Pump Station Water ETWD 22711 Brookhaven Dr,
Lake Forest X
21 ETWD Administrative Office Water ETWD 25241 Los Alisos Blvd, Lake Forest X
22 Viejo Substation Electrical Edison 88 Icon X
Transportation Infrastructure
23 State Route 241 (SR 241) Transportation Caltrans and TCA
Alton/Exit 23 South to
Aliso Creek Bridge
(55-0704)
X

24 Alton Parkway Transportation City Portola Parkway to Commercentre Drive X
25 Bake Parkway Transportation City Portola Parkway to
Jeronimo Road X
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26 Lake Forest Drive Transportation City Bake Parkway/Rue De Valore to Interstate 5 X
27 El Toro Road Transportation City Marguerite Parkway to Interstate 5 X

The evaluation of the danger posed to critical facilities and facilities of concern examines the quantity and categories of establishments situated in regions that are exposed to heightened risks from various hazards. Such hazards have the potential to cause harm or destruction to these facilities, resulting in their inability to operate normally or with restricted capacity. Repair or reconstruction efforts may be required to restore these facilities to full functionality. While facilities located outside of the hazard-prone areas may still be impacted by such hazards, the likelihood of damage is lower due to the reduced risk.

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Figure 11 - Critical Facilities Map

Figure 12 - Critical Facilities Map
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SUSCEPTIBLE POPULATIONS

Various factors (age, physical and/or mental health status, socioeconomic status, and access to essential services) can influence individuals' ability to prepare for and safeguard themselves and their assets from hazardous events. Although some hazardous events may equally affect all regions of Lake Forest, the impact experienced by individuals can differ based on their circumstances. For instance, higher-income households are more likely to afford the cost of retrofitting their homes to withstand flooding or move to a less flood-prone area than lower-income households. Therefore, during a flood event, higher-income households are less likely to suffer significant damage than their lower-income counterparts, even if both receive the same amount of rainfall.

A social threat analysis entails a comprehensive evaluation of the potential impact of hazardous events on diverse demographic groups and their distribution within the City. This assessment involves scrutinizing whether individuals in high-risk areas are more likely to be classified as vulnerable populations than the general populace. The social threat analysis employs specific criteria to determine the level of risk to susceptible populations:

• Disability status: Persons with disabilities may often have reduced mobility and experience difficulties living independently. As a result, they may have little or no ability to prepare for and mitigate hazard conditions without assistance from others. • Income levels: Lower-income households are less likely to have the financial resources to implement mitigation activities on their residences. They may also struggle with having the necessary time to find and access educational resources discussing hazard mitigation strategies.

Furthermore, lower-income households are less likely to be able to afford to move to areas that are safer or less at risk of being impacted by a hazard. • Seniors (individuals at least 65 years of age): Seniors are more likely to have reduced mobility, physical and/or mental disabilities, and lower income levels, all of which may decrease their ability to prepare for and mitigate a hazard event.

The evaluation of social threats also considers the vulnerability of other at-risk groups, such as homeless individuals, those lacking access to transportation or communication, and undocumented immigrants.

However, due to the lack of readily available data, it is difficult to accurately estimate the number of people in high-risk areas. Therefore, this assessment will provide a more general overview of how these vulnerable populations may be impacted.

ADDITIONAL ASSETS

Apart from the critical facilities/facilities of concern and vulnerable populations, other assets in Lake Forest may also be susceptible to damage from hazardous events. These assets could encompass crucial services, infrastructure networks, ecosystems, and local economic activities.

THREAT PROFILES

WILDFIRE

Physical Threat

Several critical facilities and facilities of concern are situated on the perimeter or within the high-risk wildfire hazard zone. While these facilities may be built from non-flammable materials such as metal and concrete, the intense heat generated by a wildfire can result in significant damage to the structures and equipment housed within. Table 16 provides a breakdown of the number of critical facilities and facilities of concern within the wildfire hazard zone, categorized by type.

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Table 9: FACILITIES IN WILDFIRE HAZARD ZONE
Category Facility Type Category
OCFA Station 42 Fire Station Critical Facility
Viejo Substation Water Critical Facility
Sewer Lift Station Water Critical Facility

Social Threat

The City is vulnerable to a significant social threat posed by a wildfire hazard zone located in the northeastern region, just adjacent to State Route 241 (SR 241). The wildfire hazard zone is characterized by a unique combination of open areas and pockets of single and multifamily housing, making it particularly susceptible to wildfire spread that can rapidly trap hundreds of residents. The open areas, coupled with wind and other variables, create conditions that have the potential to facilitate unimpeded wildfires, leading to a catastrophic event.

The high-risk zone poses significant challenges to the population, particularly to those who lack access to transportation. During a wildfire event, people without access to transportation are at an increased risk since wildfires can spread rapidly, often necessitating immediate evacuation. Such individuals may have limited time to arrange alternative transportation or make other arrangements, putting them at an elevated risk of harm.

The wildfire hazard zone in Lake Forest is a critical concern that requires continuous monitoring and management to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents. It is essential to develop effective response plans that cater to the unique challenges posed by this region to minimize the impact of any potential wildfire hazard.

Other Threats

The City is no stranger to the impact of wildfire events. These events can cause severe disruptions to the energy services in the community as power lines may be destroyed and natural gas supplies shut off.

Emergency responders may face difficulties accessing the affected areas, and roadways can become blocked by flames, making it challenging to move around. In the worst-case scenario, one or more wildfires could block all roads in and out of the community, creating a significant challenge for emergency management.

While the ecosystems in Southern California are largely adapted to wildfires, a major wildfire event could cause extensive damage to the surrounding habitat, resulting in a long recovery period. Additionally, significant wildfire damage to the community could lead to a long-term decrease in business activity.

Therefore, it is critical to continue monitoring and developing effective response plans to minimize the impact of wildfire events on the energy infrastructure, transportation, and ecosystems of Lake Forest.

Vulnerable Populations

In the City of Lake Forest, social vulnerability to natural hazards like wildfires is a critical concern. This vulnerability encompasses the susceptibility of various social groups to adverse impacts, including the disproportionate experience of harm, loss, or disruption. Key factors contributing to this vulnerability in Lake Forest include economic status, language barriers, and housing situations. For instance, low- income communities, non-English speaking populations, and families living in high-rent areas where multiple households share a single dwelling face unique challenges. These groups may struggle with access to emergency information, adequate evacuation means, and recovery resources post-disaster.

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The situation is further complicated for undocumented residents who may fear seeking help due to immigration status concerns.

Additionally, the City's homeless population is particularly susceptible to the direct and indirect effects of wildfires. The lack of shelter and access to resources puts them at a heightened risk of exposure to environmental hazards, including poor air quality caused by fires. The aftermath of a wildfire can exacerbate homelessness, as individuals may return to find their homes destroyed. Addressing these vulnerabilities requires a multifaceted approach in Lake Forest’s disaster preparedness and response plans, ensuring that all community members, especially the most vulnerable, have the support and resources they need during and after natural hazards.

Facility and Infrastructure Impact

OCFA Station 42 and the Viejo Substation are both critical facilities located within the northeastern region’s Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. In the event of a major wildfire, these structures risk sustaining significant fire and smoke damage. Wildfires can release massive heat energy, potentially resulting in exterior wall damage, broken windows, compromised roofs and collapsed ceilings. The intense smoke permeation during a wildfire event may irreparably harm sensitive computers, medical equipment, vehicles, and other essential apparatus relied upon by first responders and utility providers.

Furthermore, wildfire events have previously disabled fire stations across California for extended periods due to the tremendous restoration efforts required. In 2003, the Old Fire ravaged 91,000 acres across California and forced the complete shutdown of a San Bernardino County fire station for over 3 months.

The closure severely hampered emergency response capabilities for the entire district.

A comparable outcome in Lake Forest, stemming from wildfire-inflicted destruction to OCFA Station 42 or the Viejo Substation, would dramatically reduce critical public safety and electrical infrastructure provision -- necessitating the diversion of resources from neighboring locales to uphold adequate standards of operation.

Land Use and Population Pattern Impacts

As Lake Forest continues to grow and develop, changes in land use and population patterns are expected to occur. These changes can significantly affect the impact of wildfires on critical facilities, the general population, and vulnerable populations. For instance, new residential developments in areas prone to wildfires will increase the number of people and structures at risk. Similarly, changes in land use, such as the conversion of natural areas to developed land, can alter the behavior and spread of wildfires.

It is essential for the City to consider these factors when assessing the threat of wildfires and developing mitigation strategies. This may involve implementing stricter building codes in wildfire-prone areas, promoting fire-resistant landscaping, and educating residents about wildfire preparedness. Additionally, as the population grows and demographics change, the City must ensure that emergency response plans and resources are adequate to protect all residents, especially vulnerable populations

Climate Change

Climate change could exacerbate the risk and impact of wildfires in Lake Forest by extending the duration of fire seasons, decreasing moisture levels, and increasing the frequency of extreme heat events. These conditions not only threaten the safety and health of populations, especially the elderly and those with respiratory issues. Additionally, the local environment, including native vegetation and wildlife habitats, faces increased susceptibility to fire damage and subsequent ecosystem disruptions, such as soil erosion and loss of biodiversity.

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EARTHQUAKE

Physical Threat

All structures within the City, encompassing both critical facilities and facilities of concern, are vulnerable to seismic shaking. The level of threat they face varies, largely dependent on which fault line triggers the seismic event. The Elsinore Fault Zone, found approximately 8 miles east of the City’s boundary, extends for 180 miles north of Chino Hills running southeast ending near the Salton Sea and poses a significant risk due to its history of producing moderate to large earthquakes. A clear illustration of its potential occurred in 1987 when it generated a 6.0 magnitude earthquake that reverberated throughout Southern California. Despite its capacity for unleashing considerable force, it's noteworthy that the Elsinore Fault Zone, one of the largest fault zones, has not yet inflicted damage on the City. However, this does not diminish the looming risk it represents due to its substantial seismic activity potential.

The San Andreas Fault, located about 45 miles to the east, is another major fault line capable of producing significant earthquakes, including the infamous 1906 San Francisco earthquake. While it is not immediately adjacent to Lake Forest, it remains a potential seismic threat that requires continued monitoring and preparedness.

Several other active fault lines in the region, such as the Newport-Inglewood Fault and the Rose Canyon Fault, could also pose a significant seismic threat to the City and surrounding areas.

Social Threat

Given the potential impact of earthquakes on the region, it is crucial to recognize that all members of the Lake Forest community may face risks associated with such events. Senior citizens and individuals with disabilities may face additional challenges evacuating weakened buildings, thereby increasing their susceptibility to harm from falling debris.

In the event of an earthquake triggering a liquefaction event, these factors may exacerbate the vulnerability of those living in these areas, underscoring the importance of proactive risk management strategies to safeguard the community's well-being.

Other Threats

Earthquakes and seismic hazards can have severe consequences on the infrastructure networks within the City. In the event of an earthquake, critical infrastructure such as electricity, water and wastewater, transportation, natural gas, and communication services may be severely disrupted or even completely interrupted, leading to significant economic and societal repercussions. The damage to government facilities may hinder essential public services and administrative operations, while seismic damage to medical clinics could impede medical care and exacerbate health issues.

Vulnerable Populations

In the City of Lake Forest, earthquake vulnerability is particularly pronounced among socially vulnerable populations, including the very young, the elderly, and those experiencing poverty. These groups are more susceptible to the adverse impacts of earthquakes due to factors like their physical and financial limitations in responding to and recovering from such incidents. Additionally, these populations may reside in structures not up to seismic building codes, increasing the risk of damage and injury during earthquakes. Homeless individuals face a heightened risk as well, due to their lack of stable shelter and potential proximity to hazardous structures like bridges.

The City of Lake Forest, recognizing the widespread risk of earthquakes, emphasizes the importance of preparedness and resilience. This includes strict enforcement of building codes to ensure seismic safety, Item: 8
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public education initiatives, and support for vulnerable populations before, during, and after an earthquake. Ensuring that all community members, particularly those most at risk, have access to information, resources, and support is crucial in mitigating the impact of earthquakes and enhancing the city's overall resilience to such natural disasters.

Facility and Infrastructure Impact

Every critical facility and area of concern in Lake Forest is at risk of harm or interruption due to earthquakes. This includes all residents. Earthquakes can cause structural damage, break gas and water pipelines, cut off electricity, and disrupt communication systems.

Specifically, structures like the City Hall/Police building, OCFA fire stations, and water/wastewater facilities, as well as the transportation network located in seismic hazard areas, are expected to experience moderate to severe damage in the event of a powerful earthquake. Previous seismic incidents, such as the 1994 Northridge earthquake, have led to partial or complete destruction of similar structures in the area. Such damage would greatly hinder emergency response efforts, utility services, and transportation throughout Lake Forest.

Land Use and Population Pattern Impacts

As Lake Forest continues to grow and develop, changes in land use and population patterns can significantly affect the impact of earthquakes on critical facilities, the general population, and vulnerable populations. New developments, particularly in areas with higher seismic risk, can increase the number of people and structures vulnerable to earthquake damage. Changes in building codes and construction practices over time can also influence the resilience of structures to seismic events.

Population growth and demographic shifts can alter the distribution of vulnerable populations within the City. For example, an increase in the elderly population or a concentration of low-income households in certain areas may require additional resources and targeted mitigation strategies to ensure their safety during an earthquake.

It is crucial for the City to consider these evolving factors when assessing earthquake threats and developing mitigation plans. This may involve regular updates to seismic hazard maps, stringent enforcement of earthquake-resistant building codes, and public education campaigns that reach all segments of the population. As the City grows and changes, it is essential to adapt emergency response plans and allocate resources accordingly to protect the entire community, especially the most vulnerable, from the impacts of earthquakes.

Climate Change

Although earthquakes are primarily influenced by tectonic activities rather than climate change, the secondary effects of a changing climate could compound the risks and impacts associated with seismic events. Earthquakes have the potential to cause widespread structural damage, disrupt utilities like gas and water pipelines, and lead to electricity and communication breakdowns. Critical facilities, including the City Hall/Police building, OCFA fire stations, and water/wastewater facilities, are particularly vulnerable, especially those located in seismic hazard zones. The transportation network also faces significant risk, as earthquake damage could severely limit mobility and access, crucial for emergency response and recovery.

Given historical precedents, such as the 1994 Northridge earthquake, the city recognizes the potential for moderate to severe damage to its infrastructure and facilities in the event of a major seismic event. Such incidents have previously resulted in extensive destruction of similar facilities, highlighting the need for enhanced structural resilience and emergency preparedness. In light of climate change, heightened precipitation and subsequent events like landslides may further exacerbate these vulnerabilities, Item: 8
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particularly in post-earthquake scenarios.

FLOOD

Physical Threat

Certain areas of the City are situated within the 100-year and 500-year Flood Hazard Zones (reference Figures 6 & 7), corresponding to a 1.0% and 0.2% Annual Chance of Flooding, respectively. Within these delineated boundaries, physical assets may be susceptible to inundation if precipitation surpasses the capacity of the storm drain infrastructure. Electronic or mechanical equipment situated on the ground may become waterlogged and rendered inoperative. Table 17 shows the critical facilities and facilities of concern by category in the flood hazard zones.

Table 10: FACILITIES IN FLOOD HAZARD ZONE
Category Facility Type Category
Dimension Water Treatment Plant Water Critical Facility Sewer Lift Station Water Critical Facility
Cherry Pump Station Water Critical Facility

Social Threat

The greater part of the Flood Hazard Zone lies to the south of SR 241, spanning through vast areas of single and multi-family residences. Individuals with limited financial means residing in flood hazard zones may encounter difficulties in covering the cost of flood insurance premiums or implementing flood- proofing measures, leading to disproportionate adversity in the event of a flood. Moreover, individuals with mobility impairments or limited access to transportation may experience complications evacuating, particularly during a flash flood.

Other Threats

Floodwaters in Lake Forest have the potential to block roadways due to the relatively low threshold of water required to stall vehicles. Even shallow waters as little as a few inches can immobilize cars, and rushing water as shallow as one foot can sweep away small vehicles. Moreover, floodwaters may contain debris that can obstruct roadways, creating difficulties in transportation, hindering emergency response efforts, and impeding evacuations. Although rare, severe floods may erode the soil surrounding critical infrastructure such as water, wastewater, and natural gas pipes, which could lead to service disruptions.

Vulnerable Populations

In the City of Lake Forest, the impact of flooding is particularly severe for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and low-income residents. These groups may face heightened risks during flood events, such as limited access to clean water, increased exposure to disease vectors like mosquitoes, and challenges in evacuating safely. The aftermath of floods often exacerbates these issues, leading to longer-term public health concerns and difficulties in accessing essential services and resources. Addressing these vulnerabilities requires targeted outreach and support to ensure that these populations are adequately prepared for, and can effectively respond to, flooding emergencies.

Moreover, families living in areas more prone to flooding, such as Aliso creek, in may encounter unique Item: 8
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challenges, especially in securing their properties and finding temporary shelter during evacuations. The City's approach to flood risk management for vulnerable populations includes proactive communication strategies, ensuring that warnings and safety information are accessible to all residents, including those who might not have access to conventional communication channels.

Facility and Infrastructure Impact

Critical facilities situated within mapped flood hazard zones in Lake Forest, such as the Dimension Water Treatment Plant, Sewer Lift Station, and Cherry Pump Station, are vulnerable to flooding. Although these facilities are elevated, floodwaters can still impair the operation of their electrical and mechanical equipment and restrict workforce access.

Past flood incidents in the region, such as the 2005 California Floods, have inundated water infrastructure, leading to drinking water contamination and wastewater overflows across Southern California. Compromises to the water supply and sanitation abilities of these crucial Lake Forest facilities would have severe impacts on public health and regular economic activity.

Land Use and Population Pattern Impacts

Land use changes and population patterns can significantly influence the City of Lake Forest's vulnerability to floods and the potential impacts on critical facilities, the general population, and vulnerable groups. As the City continues to grow and develop, changes in land use and the built environment can alter the natural landscape and affect the way water moves through the watershed.

The conversion of natural areas, such as wetlands, forests, and grasslands, to urban or suburban developments can reduce the land's ability to absorb and store water, leading to increased surface runoff and a higher risk of flooding. The expansion of impervious surfaces, such as roads, parking lots, and buildings, can further exacerbate this problem by preventing water from infiltrating into the ground and increasing the speed and volume of runoff.

Population growth and the development of new residential and commercial areas can also put more people and structures at risk of flooding. As the population increases, there may be greater pressure to develop land in flood-prone areas, such as floodplains or low-lying regions near water bodies. This can increase the potential for property damage and loss of life in the event of a flood.

Moreover, changes in population demographics can affect the City's vulnerability to flooding. For example, an increase in the elderly population or a growth in low-income households may require special considerations in terms of emergency response and evacuation planning, as these groups may face unique challenges in the face of a flood event.

Climate Change

Climate change could increase the severity and frequency of flooding in Lake Forest, posing significant risks to both vulnerable populations and essential infrastructure. Heightened unpredictability and intensity of rainfall, a consequence of changing climate patterns, can lead to more frequent and severe flooding.

This especially impacts families in flood-prone areas, such as those near Aliso Creek, who face considerable challenges in safeguarding their homes and finding safe shelters during flood events.

Regarding the impact on facilities and infrastructure, key utilities like the Dimension Water Treatment Plant, Sewer Lift Station, and Cherry Pump Station, situated within Lake Forest’s designated flood hazard zones, are particularly susceptible to the effects of climate-enhanced flooding. Despite measures like elevation, these vital facilities face the risk of operational disruptions, with floodwaters potentially compromising their electrical and mechanical systems and restricting access for essential personnel.

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DROUGHT

Physical Threat

Although there is not a method to assess drought’s impact on infrastructure, it is important to note that drought conditions in the City can cause soil to become dry, which can result in cracks and shifting. This phenomenon can have adverse effects on infrastructure such as buildings, roads, and bridges, particularly when they are built on expansive clay soils that are vulnerable to shrink and swell cycles.

Structural damage and safety hazards may ensue as a result of the propagation of cracks in the soil into the foundation of these structures.

In addition, during a drought, trees and vegetation may become dry, increasing their susceptibility to falling, and posing hazards to infrastructure such as power lines, buildings, and roads. This can cause power outages and disruptions to transportation, with additional safety concerns.

Social Threat

The occurrence of droughts in the City is unlikely to pose significant social threats to households.

However, residents and business owners in the City may experience financial costs as a result of water conservation efforts. These might include higher water rates due to scarcity, costs for upgrading to water- efficient systems, increased maintenance, regulatory compliance, and education costs. Industries such as hospitality or landscaping could potentially lose business due to water restrictions. Additionally, vulnerable populations such as low-income households or seniors with limited access to financial resources may be disproportionately affected if higher water fees are imposed during a severe drought event.

Drought conditions can also lead to poor air quality as dry conditions can increase the amount of dust and other particles in the air. This can cause respiratory problems, particularly for those with pre-existing health conditions.

Other Threats

A typical drought is not anticipated to lead to any outages of services in the City. An exceptional drought, however, may lead to restricted water use for residents or businesses in the City. Trees that are not properly adapted to lower levels of irrigation could perish, which would alter the City’s aesthetic appearance and may contribute to poor air quality and the creation of heat islands.

Vulnerable Populations

In the City of Lake Forest, droughts pose distinct challenges for socially vulnerable groups, including the very young, the elderly, and those experiencing poverty. These groups are particularly susceptible to the adverse impacts of drought due to factors like physical limitations, financial constraints, and the inability to stockpile essential supplies. During droughts, which often coincide with extreme heat, densely populated areas in Lake Forest may experience even higher temperatures, exacerbating the risk for vulnerable populations. These groups may also lack access to emergency warning systems and social media alerts due to economic disparities, hindering their ability to receive timely information and guidance.

The homeless population in Lake Forest is especially vulnerable during drought conditions. Without stable shelter, they are at an increased risk of heat-related illnesses and face difficulties in accessing potable water and food, as droughts can affect local food supply chains. Traditional cooling methods, such as seeking shelter near waterways, are less effective during droughts, as reduced water flow diminishes natural cooling effects. The city's response to these challenges involves ensuring that cooling centers, shelters, and food distribution centers are accessible and adequately equipped to meet the Item: 8
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needs of these populations, providing essential resources to help them cope with the compounded challenges of drought and extreme heat.

Facility and Infrastructure Impact

Prolonged drought conditions can damage critical facilities and infrastructure in Lake Forest through soil shrinkage and expanding vegetation dryness. Drought-related soil contraction can propagate extensive foundation cracks in civic buildings, water tanks, and bridges if constructed atop expansive clay substrates. Furthermore, an exceptional drought may compromise the integrity of power lines due to nearby forest overgrowth experiencing broadened vegetation mortality. These impacts can substantially impair building stability, spark wildfires, obstruct transportation pathways, and amplify electrical network vulnerability throughout the City.

Land Use and Population Pattern Impacts

Land use changes and population patterns in Lake Forest can significantly influence the City's vulnerability to drought and its impacts on critical facilities, the general population, and vulnerable groups. As the City continues to grow and develop, the demand for water resources is likely to increase, putting additional strain on the water supply during drought periods.

Changes in land use, such as the conversion of natural areas to urban or suburban developments, can alter the local water cycle and reduce the land's ability to absorb and retain water. This can lead to increased surface runoff and reduced groundwater recharge, exacerbating the effects of drought.

Furthermore, the expansion of impervious surfaces, such as roads and buildings, can contribute to the urban heat island effect, which can intensify the impacts of drought by increasing evaporation rates and water demand for cooling and irrigation purposes.

Population growth and demographic shifts can also affect the City's vulnerability to drought. As the population increases, so does the demand for water resources, both for residential and commercial purposes. This increased demand can put additional pressure on the water supply system, particularly during prolonged periods of drought. Moreover, changes in population demographics, such as an increase in the elderly population or a growth in low-income households, may require targeted strategies to ensure that these vulnerable groups have access to adequate water resources during drought conditions.

Climate Change

During drought periods, often accompanied by extreme heat, densely populated areas in Lake Forest may face increased heat stress. This heightened heat stress poses significant health risks, particularly to vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and those with chronic health conditions, who are more susceptible to heat-related complications.

For Lake Forest's homeless population, drought conditions exacerbate their vulnerability. They face increased heat exposure, and the effectiveness of conventional cooling methods, like seeking shade near water bodies, is significantly diminished due to the unreliability of these natural cooling sources.

This leaves them with limited options to find relief from the oppressive heat.

In terms of facilities and infrastructure, prolonged droughts pose substantial risks to the city. Notably, the augmented dryness of vegetation in the northeastern sector of the city, above Highway 241 in the Very High Wildfire Severity Zone, substantially increases the likelihood of wildfires. These conditions not only raise the potential for wildfire outbreaks but also threaten the integrity of critical infrastructure like power lines.

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LANDSLIDE AND MUDFLOW

Physical Threat

Landslides and mudflows pose a risk to buildings located on hillsides or directly above or below slopes.

Since an assessment regarding this hazard's impact on the City’s critical facilities and facilities of concern has not been conducted, information on the number of affected facilities cannot be provided.

Social Threat

Due to the City’s geography and environment (referenced in Chapter 2) the community is more prone to landslides and mudflows. One of the primary social threats associated with landslides and mudflows in the City is the potential for loss of life. These natural disasters can cause fatalities, especially if they occur in densely populated areas. The loss of life resulting from landslides and mudflows can have far- reaching social implications, causing grief and trauma to the families and friends of the victims, and disrupting the social fabric of communities.

In addition to loss of life, landslides and mudflows can cause significant property damage, leading to the displacement of individuals and communities. This can result in social and economic disruptions, especially if the displaced individuals are unable to find alternative housing or employment.

Vulnerable populations such as low-income households or seniors with limited access to financial resources may be disproportionately affected by these natural disasters. These individuals may be unable to afford adequate insurance coverage or to make necessary repairs to their homes, making them more vulnerable to the social and economic impacts of landslides and mudflows.

Other Threats

Landslides and mudflows can disrupt transportation and communication systems, leading to further social and economic disruptions. In many cases, landslides and mudflows can block roads, making it difficult for people to access essential services such as medical facilities and emergency response services. In addition, landslides and mudflows can damage communication systems, making it difficult for individuals to communicate with each other or with emergency services. These threats can damage natural habitats, destroy vegetation, and alter the landscape. This can have significant social and economic implications, especially if the affected areas are used for recreational or commercial purposes.

Vulnerable Populations

Landslides are often secondary events, triggered by preceding natural disasters such as wildfires, heavy rainfall, or earthquakes. This cascading effect poses a heightened risk to socially vulnerable groups, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, low-income families, and the homeless. After such primary events, these groups find themselves disproportionately affected by landslides due to their existing vulnerabilities. For instance, wildfires can destabilize slopes, making areas where vulnerable populations reside more prone to subsequent landslides. Heavy rainfall and seismic activities similarly exacerbate the risk, especially in areas already weakened by other environmental factors.

The aftermath of primary events like wildfires or earthquakes often leaves these populations with diminished resources and resilience, making the additional threat of landslides more challenging to manage. The elderly and disabled may struggle with rapid evacuation needs, while low-income residents might lack the means to reinforce or repair their homes against landslide risks.

Facility and Infrastructure Impact

Landslides triggered by earthquakes or anomalous weather events are likely to inflict severe Item: 8
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infrastructural harm within Lake Forest. Critical transportation routes could be fully blocked, obstructing mobility and isolating neighborhoods. El Toro Road, for instance, constitutes a crucial roadway at high landslide risk providing access to essential retail amenities and public park spaces in the community. Any activity rendering this route impassable would sensationally hamper daily life and emergency responder access.

Land Use and Population Pattern Impacts

Land use changes and population patterns can significantly influence the City of Lake Forest's vulnerability to landslides and mudflows, as well as the potential impacts on critical facilities, the general population, and vulnerable groups. As the City continues to grow and develop, changes in land use and the built environment can alter the natural landscape and affect the stability of slopes and hillsides.

The conversion of natural areas to urban or suburban developments, particularly in hilly or mountainous regions, can increase the risk of landslides and mudflows. The removal of vegetation, which helps to stabilize slopes and absorb water, can make the land more susceptible to erosion and failure during heavy rainfall events. Additionally, the construction of roads, buildings, and other infrastructure can alter natural drainage patterns and contribute to the destabilization of slopes.

Population growth and the expansion of residential areas into landslide-prone regions can put more people and structures at risk. As the population increases, there may be greater pressure to develop land in areas that are more susceptible to landslides and mudflows, such as steep hillsides or areas with a history of slope instability. This can increase the potential for property damage and loss of life in the event of a landslide or mudflow.

Moreover, changes in population demographics can affect the City's vulnerability to these hazards. For example, an increase in the elderly population or a growth in low-income households may require special considerations in terms of emergency response and evacuation planning, as these groups may face unique challenges in the face of a landslide or mudflow event.

Climate Change

Landslides often occur as secondary events, triggered by primary natural disasters such as wildfires, heavy rainfall, or earthquakes. These incidents, amplified by the effects of climate change, pose increased risks to socially vulnerable groups.. Events like wildfires can destabilize slopes, increasing the likelihood of landslides in areas where these vulnerable groups reside. Additionally, heavy rainfall, intensified by climate change, can further elevate the risk in already compromised areas.

Landslides induced by earthquakes or extreme weather events, could occur more frequently due to climate change. Crucial transportation routes, such as El Toro Road, a key access point to vital retail amenities and public spaces, would be at an increased risk. A landslide blocking this route would not only disrupt daily life but also significantly hinder emergency response efforts.

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CHAPTER 5

HAZARD MITIGATION STRATEGY

STRATEGY DEVELOPMENT PROCESS

Lake Forest's hazard mitigation plan consists of a comprehensive collection of steps known as “mitigation actions” that are designed to lessen the effects of hazard events by enhancing the safety and well-being of residents and visitors, safeguarding critical facilities and facilities of concern, protecting various buildings and structures, securing key services, bolstering the local economy, and preserving other substantial community assets. These efforts will also aid in emergency preparedness, enabling a more effective community response to disasters. Preparedness actions are not a required component of an LHMP, but they support and complement mitigation activities. The Hazard Mitigation Working Group (“Working Group”) chose to include them as part of the overall hazard mitigation strategy.

USE OF HAZARD AND THREAT ASSESSMENT

The input of the community was critical in shaping the development of the mitigation strategy. The Steering Group engaged in various community engagement activities, including public meetings, surveys, and outreach to local organizations and stakeholders. Through these efforts, the group obtained valuable insights into the needs and concerns of the community, which helped guide the development of mitigation actions.

The Working Group relied in part on the hazard profiles and threat assessments in this Plan to develop the actions in the mitigation strategy. The Working Group prepared a comprehensive set of mitigation actions that respond to the relevant hazard situations and provide protection to residents, businesses, and community assets in Lake Forest. The Working Group took care to ensure that the mitigation actions will help to reduce damage from the most frequent types of hazard events, the most significant that may reasonably occur, and those with the greatest potential to harm the community. The Steering Group drafted initial mitigation actions that are intended to help protect the most vulnerable members of the community and the most vulnerable local assets. These were reviewed and added to by members of the Working Group.

CAPABILITIES ASSESSMENT

The planning team in Lake Forest performed a comprehensive inventory and analysis of existing authorities and capabilities, known as a “capability assessment.” This assessment is crucial in creating an inventory of the jurisdiction’s codes, programs, policies, and evaluating its capacity to implement them effectively. It serves as a toolkit for implementing the hazard mitigation plan and identifies opportunities to enhance the City’s core capabilities to support mitigation actions. Additionally, this assessment helps in pinpointing potential gaps in core capabilities, which, when addressed, may become key mitigation actions in the plan.

Findings from the capability assessment were shared with various City departments, facilitating the development of recommended mitigation actions. Opportunities for adding or expanding capabilities identified by departments have been recognized as crucial mitigation actions. The adaptability of each core capability to meet the evolving needs and best interests of the City is a significant overarching capability, acknowledged by this reference.

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Specific Capability Categories and Improvement Strategies:

• Planning and Regulatory:
o Current Status: Lake Forest currently implements various plans, policies, codes, and ordinances that mitigate impacts from hazards.
o Improvement Strategies: The City aims to improve upon these by updating zoning laws, revising building codes for enhanced resilience, and integrating climate change projections into planning documents.
• Administrative and Technical:
o Current Status: The City possesses skilled staff and technical tools for hazard mitigation. o Improvement Strategies: Strategies include staff training in advanced mitigation techniques, investment in technological tools, and forming partnerships for technical guidance.
• Financial:
o Current Status: Lake Forest has access to various funding sources for mitigation strategies.
o Improvement Strategies: The City plans to explore additional funding avenues, such as state and federal grants, and public-private partnerships, as well as optimize budget allocations.
• Education and Outreach:
o Current Status: Current programs in place focus on fire safety, earthquake awareness, and other hazard-related education.
o Improvement Strategies: Expanding these programs to wider audiences, incorporating interactive educational methods, and regularly updating community information are key planned improvements.

Table 18 shows the capabilities assessment for Lake Forest, clearly presenting the current status and proposed improvements for each capability.

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Table 11: CAPABILITIES ASSESSMENT
Planning and Regulatory
Document Title Year
Does the document address or
identify projects/updates for hazards
or mitigation strategies?
How can the document be used to
implement mitigation strategies Website
Annual Budget Plan 2023-
2024
Yes. The current budget plan identifies
the drafting of the Local Hazard
Mitigation Plan (“LHMP”). The General
Fund included $75,000 in the FY 2022-
23 budget. Mitigation strategies in the
LHMP will be included in the financial
breakdown for City projects outlined in
future budget plans.

The City of Lake Forest has several
planning and regulatory documents that
address hazards and mitigation
strategies. The Annual Budget Plan for
FY 2023-2024 identifies the drafting of
the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP)
and includes $75,000 in the General
Fund for its preparation. The LHMP
preparation was also included as part of
the FY 2022-2023 budget. The City will
continue to seek grants to allocate funds
towards the implementation of approved
mitigation strategies, with funding to be
added during year four of the adopted
LHMP in preparation for the 5-year
update. Mitigation strategies in the
LHMP will be included in the financial
breakdown for City projects outlined in
future budget plans.

Budgets and Financial Statements
| Lake Forest, CA - Official
Website (lakeforestca.gov)
Building Code 2023 Yes. The City's Building Standards
Code, including the Building Code,
Mechanical Code, Electrical Code, and
Plumbing Code, have been designed to
mitigate against known hazards for new
construction. The LHMP will be reviewed
during the next scheduled update of City
building codes, along with the General
Plan Goal PS-1 (Seismic and Geologic
Hazards), to update the codes as related
to identified hazards and mitigations.

The City's Building Standards Code,
including the Building Code, Mechanical
Code, Electrical Code, and Plumbing
Code, have been designed to mitigate
against known hazards for new
construction. These codes, required to
construct buildings to safe standards, are
part of triennial building code updates.

These code updates may include
measures to better resist damage during
a hazard event. The LHMP will be
reviewed during the next scheduled
update of City building codes, along with
the General Plan Goal PS-1 (Seismic
and Geologic Hazards), to update the
codes as related to identified hazards
and mitigations.

Community Development | Lake
Forest, CA - Official Website
(lakeforestca.gov)
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Capital
Improvement
Projects Plan

2022-
2023
Yes. The Capital Improvement Projects
Plan outlines construction projects for
City-owned buildings, facilities, and
infrastructure. It is updated annually as
part of the budget, covering the next 10
years but with funding only for the first
two. The plan currently includes sidewalk
repairs and street safety to support
hazard mitigation.

The Capital Improvement Projects Plan
outlines construction projects for City-
owned buildings, facilities, and
infrastructure. It is updated annually as
part of the budget, covering the next 10
years but with funding only for the first
two. The plan currently includes sidewalk
repairs and street safety to support
hazard mitigation. Future updates may
include capital improvements that
support identified mitigation factors as
listed in the LHMP.

Budgets and Financial Statements
| Lake Forest, CA - Official
Website (lakeforestca.gov)
Emergency
Operation Plan
(EOP)
2023 Yes. The current EOP describes the
structure and processes used during an
emergency event and utilizes an all-
hazards approach.

The current Emergency Operation Plan
(EOP) describes the structure and
processes used during an emergency
event and utilizes an all-hazards
approach. During the next scheduled
EOP update, Lake Forest will consider
how the LHMP mitigation strategies
support EOP goals and Emergency
Support Functions (ESF's).

General Plan 2020 Yes. The Lake Forest General Plan
provides general guidance for future land
use, transportation, infrastructure,
environmental and resource decisions;
hazards include seismic, fire, flooding,
and climate change.

The Lake Forest General Plan provides
general guidance for future land use,
transportation, infrastructure,
environmental and resource decisions.

Hazards addressed include seismic, fire,
flooding, and climate change. Public
Safety Goals (Goal PS 1-7) identify
policies and actions the City may deploy
to mitigate risk. During the next update in
2040, the City will ensure the General
Plan includes and maintains reference to
the LHMP to inform future budget
priorities.

Lake Forest General Plan
(excluding Housing
Element)_202110051212558852.
pdf (lakeforestca.gov)
Strategic Business
Plan
2021-
2028
Yes. Strategic Plan Initiative number 30
(SP#30), titled 'Local Hazard Mitigation
Plan,' aims to identify risks and
vulnerabilities linked to natural disasters
and formulate long-term strategies to
protect people and property. Initiatives
SP#31 and SP#32 focus on establishing
the City's AM 1690 radio transmission
and a Comprehensive Emergency
The Strategic Business Plan's Initiative
number 30 (SP#30), titled 'Local Hazard
Mitigation Plan,' aims to identify risks and
vulnerabilities linked to natural disasters
and formulate long-term strategies to
protect people and property. Initiatives
SP#31 and SP#32 focus on establishing
the City's AM 1690 radio transmission
and a Comprehensive Emergency
Strategic Business Plan - Final
(004) (lakeforestca.gov)
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Management Plan, respectively,
bolstering the City's readiness for
unpredictable events. Goal A, under the
priority area "Safe" seeks to further
enhance comprehensive emergency
management strategies, ensuring an
effective response to unforeseen
incidents.

Management Plan, respectively,
bolstering the City's readiness for
unpredictable events. Goal A, under the
priority area "Safe," seeks to further
enhance comprehensive emergency
management strategies, ensuring an
effective response to unforeseen
incidents. The Strategic Business Plan
can be used to forecast future funding of
identified mitigation projects in alignment
with SP#30, SP#31, and SP#32.

Water Efficient
Landscape
Ordinance

2016 No. The purpose of the Water Efficient
Landscape Ordinance (“WELO”) is to
promote the conservation and efficient
use of water and to prevent the waste of
this valuable resource. The intent is to
establish alternative regulations that are
at least as effective as the model
ordinance established by the State
Department of Water Resources. The
WELO was not specifically intended to
mitigate against hazards.

The Water Efficient Landscape
Ordinance (WELO) establishes
regulations that relate to outdoor water
use. While intended for the conservation
and efficient use of water, approved
permits for projects located in a flood or
land movement area may include
mitigation strategies. The Zoning Code is
an implementation tool for the City's
General Plan. It establishes regulations
for land uses throughout the community,
including where different types of
development and land use activity can
occur, how these developments can
look, and how they may be operated. As
part of a future comprehensive update to
the Zoning Code and planned
community documents, hazards and
mitigations listed in the LHMP shall be
reviewed as part of the approval and
submission package. Mitigation actions
that relate to the siting, construction, and
operation of new developments may be
implemented through the Zoning Code to
ensure these projects address risks
identified in the plan.

Water Efficient Landscape
Ordinance (9.146.110).pdf
(lakeforestca.gov)
Zoning Code 2023 Yes. The Zoning Code is an
implementation tool for the City’s
General Plan. It establishes regulations
for land uses throughout the community,
including where different types of
As part of a future comprehensive
update to the Zoning Code and planned
community documents, hazards and
mitigations listed in the LHMP shall be
reviewed as part of the approval and
Community Development | Lake
Forest, CA - Official Website
(lakeforestca.gov)
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development and land use activity can
occur, how these developments can
look, and how they may be operated.

submission package. Mitigation actions
that relate to the siting, construction, and
operation of new developments may be
implemented through the Zoning Code to
ensure these projects address risks
identified in the plan.

County of Orange
General Plan
2015-
2022
Yes. The Orange County General Plan is
the long-term blueprint for growth and
development primarily in the
unincorporated areas of Orange County;
hazards include: seismic, fire, flooding,
dam, watercourses and generating
nuclear power.

The Orange County General Plan is the
long-term blueprint for growth and
development primarily in the
unincorporated areas of Orange County.

Hazards addressed include seismic, fire,
flooding, dam, watercourses and
generating nuclear power. Mitigation
actions that require coordination with the
County may be supported by including
these actions in the Orange County
General Plan.

General Plan | OC Development
Services California
(ocpublicworks.com)
County of Orange
Hazard Mitigation
Plan
The Orange County Hazard Mitigation
Plan identifies and describes the hazard
events that may occur in the
unincorporated areas of Orange County
and provides a suite of mitigation actions
to help decrease the potential damage
from these hazards.

The Orange County Hazard Mitigation
Plan identifies and describes the hazard
events that may occur in the
unincorporated areas of Orange County
and provides a suite of mitigation actions
to help decrease the potential damage
from these hazards. Mitigation actions
for Lake Forest that may involve the
County may require additional
coordination with the County's Hazard
Mitigation Program. This can help create
a more unified approach to hazard
mitigation in the region, as similar
actions may be included in both plans,
making them more effective together.
2021 County of Orange and
Orange County Fire Authority
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan.pdf
(ocsheriff.gov)
California State
Hazard Mitigation
Plan
The California State Hazard Mitigation
Plan assesses the types of hazards that
may be present in California. It includes
descriptions of these hazards,
summaries of past hazard events,
descriptions of how these hazards may
occur in the future, and how these
hazards may harm the people and
assets of California. Like a local hazard
mitigation plan, the State Hazard
Mitigation Plan is updated every five
The California State Hazard Mitigation
Plan assesses the types of hazards that
may be present in California. It includes
descriptions of these hazards,
summaries of past hazard events,
descriptions of how these hazards may
occur in the future, and how these
hazards may harm the people and
assets of California. Like a local hazard
mitigation plan, the State Hazard
Mitigation Plan is updated every five
Hazard Mitigation Planning |
California Governor's Office of
Emergency Services
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years. years. The City can use the State
Hazard Mitigation Plan as a source of
information to refine the hazard profiles
and vulnerability assessments in future
Lake Forest's LHMPs.

Administrative and Technical
Administration Skills/Tools Ability to Support Mitigation Hazard Mitigation Working Group The Hazard Mitigation Working Group was formed in 2022 and consists of core City departments:

Management Services, City Manager’s Office,
Community Development, Community Services,
Economic Development, Finance, and Public Works.

External partnerships also include representatives of
public utilities, public safety agencies, fire services, school district, neighboring cities, etc.

The City of Lake Forest has several administrative and
technical capabilities that can support mitigation efforts.

The Hazard Mitigation Working Group, formed in 2022,
consists of core City departments, including Management Services, City Manager's Office, Community Development, Community Services, Economic Development, Finance,
and Public Works. External partnerships also include
representatives of public utilities, public safety agencies, fire services, school district, neighboring cities, etc.

Comprised of subject matter experts, this group provides current and relevant insights on capabilities within the City to inform mitigation planning and implementation efforts.

Steering Group The Steering Group was formed in 2022 and consists of core members of the City’s Community Development
department alongside consultants that serve as a SME in Emergency Management and local government.

The Steering Group, formed in 2022, consists of core
members of the City's Community Development department
alongside consultants that serve as subject matter experts in Emergency Management and local government. This group
also provides current and relevant insights on capabilities within the City and Hazard Mitigation planning.

Community Development The Community Development Department plays a crucial role in managing the physical development of
the community by overseeing the approval of building
permits and ensuring that all buildings and properties
comply with appropriate standards. These standards
may include fire codes, building codes, and zoning
The Community Development Department plays a crucial
role in managing the physical development of the
community by overseeing the approval of building permits and ensuring that all buildings and properties comply with appropriate standards, including fire codes, building codes, and zoning regulations. The department conducts current Item: 8
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regulations.

To carry out its duties, the department conducts current and long-range planning activities, including land use
planning, which involves developing comprehensive
plans that determine the appropriate use of land within a community. The department also enforces all land
use regulations, which include zoning regulations that
determine where certain types of structures can be built within the community.

and long-range planning activities, including land use
planning, which involves developing comprehensive plans that determine the appropriate use of land within a
community. The department also enforces all land use
regulations. Mitigation actions related to the construction of structures, or retrofits or improvements to existing
structures, may be implemented through planning
processes by Community Development Department staff.

Community Emergency
Response Team (CERT)
CERT is a group of trained volunteers who specialize in disaster preparedness, public safety, traffic control, and emergency response. They are capable of performing
light emergency response activities and conducting
disaster preparedness activities when a disaster
situation arises. The program is run by the
Management Services staff and falls under the
jurisdiction of the Federal Emergency Management
Agency and is standardized across the nation.

The City's CERT (Community Emergency Response
Team) program is a group of trained volunteers who
specialize in disaster preparedness, public safety, traffic control, and emergency response. They are capable of
performing light emergency response activities and
conducting disaster preparedness activities when a
disaster situation arises. The program is run by the
Management Services staff and falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Emergency Management Agency and is
standardized across the nation. Expanding the CERT
program can be an effective strategy for implementing
mitigation actions related to community training and
education. This can help to improve the overall level of disaster preparedness in the community and increase the capacity for emergency response in the event of a
disaster.

Finance The Finance Department is responsible for managing the City's financial affairs. This includes preparing the annual budget, managing the receipt and distribution of City funds, and generating various financial reports.

The Finance Department is responsible for managing the
City's financial affairs, including preparing the annual budget, managing the receipt and distribution of City
funds, and generating various financial reports. Based on City Council's Direction and the adopted Strategic Plan, the Finance Department can incorporate mitigation actions into the City's budget, ensuring that sufficient resources are allocated towards mitigation efforts. Additionally, staff can provide support in administering grant funding related to mitigation activities.

Human Resources Human Resources is responsible for recruiting and training City staff.

Mitigation actions that relate to staff training may be implemented through the Human Resources Division. The
City is a member of the Orange County Operation Area
and the Orange County Emergency Management
Organization. Also, Public Works holds an agreement with the County of Orange. The agreement has set pricing for Item: 8
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essential equipment rentals during an emergency. Both
the Orange County Operation Area and the Orange
County Emergency Management Organization provide
mutual aid to communities via the Orange County Sheriff's Department, Orange County Fire Authority and the State
of California Office of Emergency Services..

Mutual Aid Agreements, Joint
Power Authority, Inter-local
Agreements, etc.

The City is a member of the Orange County Operation
Area and the Orange County Emergency Management
Organization. Also, Public Works holds an agreement
with the County of Orange. The agreement has set
pricing for essential equipment rentals during an
emergency.

Forming partnerships with neighboring jurisdictions, state and federal agencies, and community organizations could also strengthen the City's mitigation capabilities. For example, collaborating with the Orange County Fire
Authority on wildfire mitigation efforts, working with the Orange County Sheriff's Department on evacuation
planning, and partnering with local businesses and
nonprofits on community outreach and education programs.

Public Safety The Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) is contracted to provide police services. OCSD is
responsible for protecting citizens, enforcing laws, and crime prevention. Law enforcement services include
patrol, traffic enforcement, accident analysis and
investigation, parking enforcement, general and special investigations, a School Resource Officer, and a
Homeless Liaison Officer.

Mitigation actions that relate to the safe movement of traffic (e.g., during evacuations), the public safety of residents during emergency events, and terrorism-related activities may be implemented through OCSD staff. They can also
widely implement other types of mitigation actions through coordination with the City and other agencies.

Public Works The Public Works Department is responsible for the oversight of constructing and maintaining City-owned
facilities and infrastructure, including roadways,
sidewalks, parks, and open space areas. The
department also handles the contract for solid waste
collection activities in the community.

The Public Works Department is responsible for the
oversight of constructing and maintaining City-owned
facilities and infrastructure, including roadways, sidewalks, parks, and open space areas. The department also handles the contract for solid waste collection activities in the community. Mitigation actions that involve constructing or retrofitting City-owned facilities and infrastructure may be implemented through Public Works Department staff.

Fire Services The Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) provides contracted fire services to the community, encompassing fire protection, suppression, inspection, paramedic
emergency medical assistance, and hazardous material
response.

The Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) provides
contracted fire services to the community, encompassing fire protection, suppression, inspection, paramedic
emergency medical assistance, and hazardous material
response. Fire-related mitigation actions that require
coordination with the County may be implemented in
collaboration with OCFA staff.

The California Department of
Transportation (Caltrans),
CalTrans is the state agency with jurisdiction over
designated highways.

Mitigation measures related to ensuring the resiliency of state-designated freeways will be implemented through
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Orange County Transportation
Authority (OCTA), and
Transportation Corridor
Agencies (TCA)

The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) is a
public agency responsible for planning, financing, and
coordinating transportation services in Orange County.

OCTA oversees a variety of transportation options,
including bus service, Metrolink commuter rail, and the planning and implementation of road improvements and
freeway projects. The organization's mission is to
enhance the mobility, accessibility, and quality of life for the residents of Orange County by delivering efficient, reliable, and safe transportation solutions.

Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) are two public
agencies, the Foothill/Eastern Transportation Corridor
Agency and the San Joaquin Hills Transportation
Corridor Agency, operating in Orange County. TCA's
primary responsibility is to plan, finance, construct, and manage toll roads in the region.

coordination with Caltrans, OCTA and TCA. City staff can work with Cal OES and FEMA to obtain future funding to
implement LHMP mitigation strategies and to receive
guidance on future updates.

The California Governor’s Office
of Emergency Services (Cal
OES)
CalOES is the state agency responsible for reducing
hazards in the state through mitigation activities,
conducting emergency planning, supporting emergency
response and recovery activities, and acting as a liaison between local and federal agencies on emergency-
related issues.

Cal OES is the state agency responsible for reducing
hazards in the state through mitigation activities, conducting emergency planning, supporting emergency response and
recovery activities, and acting as a liaison between local and federal agencies on emergency-related issues.

City staff can work with Cal OES to obtain future funding to implement LHMP mitigation strategies and to receive
guidance on future updates. This could involve applying for grants through Cal OES's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program or Pre-Disaster Mitigation Program, which provide funding for a wide range of mitigation projects. Cal OES also offers technical assistance and training to local governments on hazard mitigation planning and project implementation,
which the City could take advantage of to build its internal capacity.

The Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA)
FEMA is the federal agency responsible for hazard
mitigation, emergency preparedness, and emergency
response and recovery activities. It provides guidance
to state and local governments on hazard mitigation
activities, including best practices and how to comply
with federal requirements.

City staff can work with FEMA to obtain future funding to implement LHMP mitigation strategies and to receive
guidance on future updates. This could involve applying for grants through FEMA's Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program, which provides funding for a wide range of mitigation projects, or the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) program, which focuses specifically on flood mitigation. FEMA also offers technical assistance and training to local governments on hazard mitigation planning Item: 8
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and project implementation, similar to Cal OES.

In addition to these grant programs, the City could also work with FEMA to access other resources and tools, such as the National Risk Index, which provides data on natural hazard risk across the United States, and the Community Lifelines framework, which helps communities to identify and
prioritize critical services and infrastructure. By leveraging these resources and collaborating closely with FEMA, the City can enhance its overall mitigation capabilities and better protect the community from future hazards.

Southern California Edison (SCE) SCE is the electrical service provider for the community.

Mitigation actions relating to the resiliency of the electrical grid will be implemented through coordination with SCE.

Southern California Edison - SCE
Southern California Gas
Company (SoCalGas)
SoCalGas is the natural gas provider and also owns the
natural gas infrastructure in the community.

Mitigation actions that address the resiliency of natural gas infrastructure will be implemented through coordination with SoCalGas.

Home | SoCalGas
Irvine Ranch Water District
(IRWD)
IRWD is an independent government agency that
provides water services. Water and sewer services are
provided by separate public agencies and not by the City.

Most Lake Forest residents are served by the Irvine
Ranch Water District (formerly the Los Alisos Water
District).

Mitigation actions related to water use may be implemented with support and collaboration with IRWD.

IRWD
El Toro Water District (ETWD) ETWD is an independent government agency that provides water services. Water and sewer services are
provided by separate public agencies and not by the City.

A portion of Lake Forest residents are served by El Toro Water District.

Mitigation actions related to water use may be implemented with support and collaboration with ETWD.

ETWD Home Page
Trabuco Canyon Water District
(TCWD)
TCWD is an independent government agency that
provides water services. Water and sewer services are
provided by separate public agencies and not by the City.

A small number of Lake Forest residents in the north part of the City are served by the Trabuco Canyon Water
District.

Mitigation actions related to water use may be implemented with support and collaboration with TCWD.

Trabuco Canyon Water District | Home

Financial
Funding Resource Has funding been leveraged for hazard mitigation? If so, how? Can this resource be leveraged for future mitigation projects?
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Capital Improvement Project
Funding
Yes. CIP funds are regularly budgeted for design and construction of improvements such as Citywide traffic signal management.

The City of Lake Forest has leveraged funding
for hazard mitigation through various sources.

CIP funds are regularly budgeted for design
and construction of improvements such as
Citywide traffic signal management. Future CIP
funds will be budgeted and utilized on an
annual basis.

Authority to levy taxes for
specific purposes
Yes. In accordance with Prop 218. In accordance with Prop 218, the City has the authority to levy taxes for specific purposes.

The City applied for and received funding from
FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program to
fund the development of this plan. This
resource can be leveraged for future mitigation
projects.

FEMA Hazard Mitigation
Grant Program
The City applied for and received funding from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program to fund the development of this plan.

To expand and improve the City's financial
capabilities for mitigation, the City could
explore additional grant opportunities, such as
the Building Resilient Infrastructure and
Communities (BRIC) program and the Flood
Mitigation Assistance (FMA) program, both
administered by FEMA. Pursuing partnerships
with private sector entities and nonprofits could
also open up new funding streams for
mitigation projects. For example, collaborating
with a local business on a flood control project
that benefits both the City and the business, or
working with a community foundation to
establish a mitigation grant program for local
organizations.

Other fees such as M2, gas
tax, city sales tax, etc.

Yes, property tax revenue from the General Plan. Other fees such as M2, gas tax, city sales tax, etc., are utilized annually for funding. Some
new development projects require a
development agreement wherein public
improvements are paid for by developers.

These public improvements may include
roadway and traffic control infrastructure,
proposed as a component of a project and paid
for by the developer. For example, the
Opportunities Study was a comprehensive
planning process that the City of Lake Forest
undertook to rezone nearly 838 acres of land
zoned for business and industrial use on 5
properties. The zoning changes allowed for a
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new plan with residential uses and public
improvements and facilities such as a sports
park and community / civic center which were
paid for by the developers. A development
agreement is required for any General Plan
Amendment. Development agreements are
intended to strengthen the public planning
process, to encourage private participation in
comprehensive planning and to reduce the
economic costs of development by providing
earlier vesting than otherwise available under
California law.

Developer Fees Yes. Some new development projects require a development agreement wherein public improvements are paid for by developers. These public improvements may include roadway and traffic control infrastructure, proposed as a component of a project and paid for by the developer. For example, the Opportunities Study was a comprehensive planning process that the City of Lake Forest undertook to rezone nearly 838 acres of land zoned for business and industrial use on 5 properties. The zoning changes allowed for a new plan with residential uses and public improvements and facilities such as a sports park and community / civic center which were paid for by the developers.

To expand the use of developer fees for
hazard mitigation, the City could consider
updating its development agreement
requirements to specifically address mitigation
needs. This could involve requiring developers
to contribute funds to a mitigation project or
program as part of their agreement or
mandating that certain mitigation measures be
incorporated into the design and construction
of new developments. For example, the City
could require that all new developments in
flood-prone areas be built with elevated
foundations or that developers install green
infrastructure to manage stormwater runoff.

Education and Outreach
Program/Organization Year Describe the program and how it relates to resiliency and mitigation Describe the process
CERT Since
2019
CERT is a group of trained volunteers who
specialize in disaster preparedness, public safety,
traffic control, and emergency response. They are
capable of performing light emergency response
activities and conducting disaster preparedness
activities when a disaster situation arises.

The City of Lake Forest has several education and
outreach programs that relate to resiliency and
mitigation. The CERT program, which has been
active since 2019, is a group of trained volunteers
who specialize in disaster preparedness, public
safety, traffic control, and emergency response. They
are capable of performing light emergency response
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activities and conducting disaster preparedness
activities when a disaster situation arises. Residents
complete the FEMA CERT Basic Training Course.

Upon completion, residents have an option to
become a certified Lake Forest CERT Volunteer.

Requirements include completing 2 FEMA Classes,
completing a City Volunteer application and
background process.

The Great Shake Out The Great Shake Out is an annual earthquake preparedness drill held on the third Thursday of
October. It is the world's largest earthquake drill, and participants all over the world use this opportunity to practice what they would do in case an earthquake
occurred suddenly. The City participates annually,
raising awareness among City staff and residents
The Great Shake Out is an annual earthquake
preparedness drill held on the third Thursday of
October. It is the world's largest earthquake drill, and participants all over the world use this opportunity to practice what they would do in case an earthquake
occurred suddenly. The City participates annually,
raising awareness among City staff and residents.

The City conducts an annual test of the Alert OC
system to provide awareness to the community.

Information is also shared on social media sites.

Emergency Preparedness Month National Preparedness Month is an observance each September to raise awareness about the
importance of preparing for disasters and
emergencies that could happen at any time. The City
Council proclaims September as National
Preparedness Month
National Preparedness Month is an observance each
September to raise awareness about the importance
of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could
happen at any time. The City Council proclaims
September as National Preparedness Month during
the first meeting in September. Preparedness tips
and recommendations are shared on social media.

Disaster Service Worker All full-time City employees are designated Disaster Service Workers.

All full-time City employees are designated Disaster
Service Workers. Upon hiring, all full-time employees
take an oath as Disaster Service Workers. When a
disaster affects the City or County, employees are
required to report to the City.

Pop Up Events Neighborhood Improvement Task Force works to assist with improving neighborhoods.

The Neighborhood Improvement Task Force works
to assist with improving neighborhoods. A pop-up
event is held in the neighborhood to gain better
insight into local issues and disburse resource
information. Representatives from OCFA, OCSD and
City Code Enforcement representatives also share
information as it relates to resiliency and mitigation.

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EVALUATION OF POTENTIAL HAZARD MITIGATION ACTIONS

The Hazard Mitigation Working Group (“Working Group”) has created a variety of potential mitigation measures based on the identified hazard profiles, threat, and capability evaluations, as well as the findings of community surveys. The Working Group then assessed these acts using predetermined standards.

Per FEMA guidelines, local governments are required to assess both the monetary and nonmonetary costs and benefits of proposed mitigation actions. While it is not mandatory to assign specific dollar values to each action, a general estimation of costs and benefits should be provided. The Working Group may consider measures with high costs or low benefits, but only if they are deemed to be of clear benefit to the community and an appropriate use of local resources.

Furthermore, FEMA stipulates that local governments should consider the following questions as part of the financial analysis:

• What is the frequency and severity of the hazard type to be addressed by the action and how vulnerable is the community to this hazard?
• What impacts of the hazard will the action reduce or avoid? • What benefits will the action provide to the community? • What critical facilities, if any, will benefit from the action? How many facilities will benefit, and how important are they to the community?
• What are the environmental benefits or impacts of the action?

The Working Group elected to conduct a review and revision of the potential hazard mitigation actions based on a third set of criteria called STAPLE/E (Social, Technical, Administrative, Political, Legal, Economic, and Environmental). While the Working Group did not carry out a formal assessment of every potential mitigation action under all STAPLE/E criteria, they utilized these criteria as a reference and a basis for discussion. Furthermore, the group deliberated on how the criteria could be used to evaluate grant applications submitted by the City for the purpose of funding LHMP implementation. Please refer to Table 19 for the STAPLE/E criteria.

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Table 12: STAPLE/E CRITERIA
Issue Criteria
Social • Is the action socially acceptable to Lake Forest community members? • Would the action treat some individuals unfairly?
• Is there a reasonable chance of the action causing a social disruption? Technical • Is the action likely to reduce the risk of the hazard occurring or will it reduce the effects of the hazard?
• Will the action create new hazards or make existing hazards worse? • Is the action the most useful approach for Lake Forest to take given the goals of the City and of community members?
Administrative • Does the City have the administrative capabilities to implement the action? • Are there existing City staff or consultant services to lead and coordinate implementation of the measure?
• Does the City have enough staff, funding, technical support, and other resources to carry out implementation?
• Are there administrative barriers to implementing the action? Political • Is the action politically acceptable to City officials and to other relevant jurisdictions and political entities?
• Do community members support the action?
Legal • Does the City have the legal authority to implement and enforce the action? • Are there potential legal barriers or consequences that could hinder or prevent implementation of the action?
• Is there a reasonable chance that implementation of the action would expose the City to legal liabilities?
• Could the action reasonably face other legal challenges? Economic • What are the monetary costs of the action and do the costs exceed the monetary benefits?
• What are the start-up and maintenance costs of the action, including administrative costs?
• Has funding for action implementation been secured or is a potential funding source available?
• How will funding the action affect the City’s financial capabilities? • Could implementation of the action reasonably burden the Lake Forest economy or tax base?
• Could there reasonably be other budgetary and revenue impacts to the City?
Environmental • What are the potential environmental impacts of the action? • Will the action require environmental regulatory approvals? • Will the action comply with all applicable federal, state, regional, and local environmental regulations?
• Will the action reasonably affect any endangered, threatened, or otherwise sensitive species of concern?

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PRIORITIZATION

As a component of the hazard mitigation action review, the Working Group placed emphasis on prioritizing the actions. The prioritization endeavors entailed examining risks and threats associated with each hazard, financial costs and benefits, technical feasibility, and community values, among other considerations. Working Group members were requested to indicate their priority actions via a voting exercise. Actions that obtained prioritization from at least four members are classified as high priority, while those prioritized by one to three members are deemed medium priority. Actions that did not obtain prioritization from any Working Group member are classified as low priority.

COST ESTIMATES

To comply with the cost estimation requirements of the hazard mitigation planning process, the Steering Group determined relative cost estimates by drawing on their comprehension of the intent of the mitigation action and their prior involvement in developing identical or similar programs/implementing projects. For budgeting purposes, three cost categories were adopted, which were in line with the City's usual cost criteria:

• Low cost ($): $100,000 or less
• Medium cost ($$): $100,001 to $250,000
• High cost ($$$): Greater than $250,000

HAZARD MITIGATION GOALS

The overarching goals identified in Chapter One were pivotal in laying the foundation for the hazard mitigation plan. These goals not only guided the formulation of policies aimed at protecting community members, ecosystems, and other vital assets from hazard events but also ensured alignment with the broader objectives of the City's General Plan Safety Element. The incorporation of these goals by reference in this process underscores their significance.

Moreover, these established goals were integral to the development of targeted mitigation actions.

They provided critical benchmarks for City staff, enabling consistent evaluation and tracking of the progress in implementing these actions. By serving this dual purpose – guiding policy formulation and acting as a measure of progress – the goals in Chapter One have been essential in shaping a robust and cohesive hazard mitigation strategy for the City.

Outlined below are the key mitigation goals that have been established based on the foundational objectives discussed in Chapter One. These goals are essential for guiding the City's efforts in hazard mitigation and ensuring a resilient and safe community.

1. Minimize loss of life, injuries, and property damage due to earthquakes, wildfires, floods, droughts, and landslides.

2. Maintain functionality of critical services and government operations by safeguarding infrastructure against earthquakes, wildfires, floods, droughts, and landslides.

3. Preserve and adapt natural systems to be resilient against earthquakes, wildfires, floods, droughts, and landslides.

4. Enhance coordinated efforts among City departments and neighboring jurisdictions for mitigation against earthquakes, wildfires, floods, droughts, and landslides.

5. Strengthen the City’s resilience through community partnerships, focusing on Item: 8
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preparedness and response to earthquakes, wildfires, floods, droughts, and landslides.

HAZARD MITIGATION ACTIONS

In the development of this Plan, the Working Group conducted a comprehensive review and analysis of a wide array of potential mitigation actions and projects for Lake Forest. This thorough evaluation process included considering the full spectrum of possibilities, ranging from education and outreach initiatives to infrastructure projects. The criteria for selection encompassed various factors such as financial feasibility, administrative and technical capacity, and overall effectiveness in enhancing community resilience. Table 20 in the Plan encapsulates this comprehensive assessment, listing all the mitigation actions that were considered and selected to pursue for the City of Lake Forest.

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Table 20: MITIGATION ACTIONS
Mitigation Action
Potential
Funding
Sources
Responsible Agency / Department

Timeframe
Multiple hazards

1.1 Capitalize on City-sponsored events to inform and
educate the public regarding hazards with the potential to affect the community and ways they can protect
themselves and reduce impacts from the
hazards. Information will be gathered, then disseminated via handouts and other methods.

General
Fund /
HMGP /
BRIC
Community Development / PIO /
Economic Development
(Ongoing) The City will capitalize on
City-sponsored events to inform and
educate the public regarding hazards
with the potential to affect the
community and ways they can protect
themselves and reduce impacts from
the hazards. Information will be
gathered, then disseminated via
handouts and other methods.

1.2 Continue to update emergency related planning
documents to ensure consistency with state and federal
law, best practices, local conditions, and recent
information and advances.

General
Fund /
HMGP /
BRIC
Public Works / Community Development
/ Management Services
(Ongoing) The City will continue to
update emergency related planning
documents to ensure consistency with
state and federal law, best practices,
local conditions, and recent information
and advances. This action will be the
responsibility of the Public Works,
Community Development, and
Management Services departments.

1.3 Coordinate with the water districts on an as-needed basis to install and harden emergency backup generators at
water pump stations and sewer lift stations.

General
Fund / FMA
Water Districts / Public Works /
Community Development
(Ongoing) The City will continue to
coordinate with the water districts on an
as-needed basis to install and harden
emergency backup generators at water
pump stations and sewer lift stations.

1.4 Facilitate the deployment/expansion of fiber optic
network throughout the City.

General
Fund /
HMGP /
PDM
Public Works / IT 1 - 5 Years
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1.5 Work with Caltrans, OCTA, TCA, and neighboring
jurisdictions to ensure emergency transportation routes are maintained, repaired, and strengthened, as
necessary.

Capital
Improvemen
t Projects /
General
Fund
Public Works (Ongoing) The City will continue to work with Caltrans, OCTA, TCA, and
neighboring jurisdictions to ensure
emergency transportation routes are
maintained, repaired, and strengthened,
as necessary.

1.6 Determine equipment deficiencies or extra requirements for the City's backup EOC if the main facility at City Hall becomes inoperable or inaccessible.

General
Fund
Management Services 1 - 2 Years

1.7 Expand the City’s comprehensive educational campaign for residents and businesses that describes the hazards present in the community and emphasizes cost-effective
mitigation efforts, such as proper construction
techniques, bracing of furniture and appliances, and
purchase of additional insurances. Distribute information through social networking, websites, print media, radio, television, at special events and in City facilities, and/or other media as appropriate.

General
Fund / BRIC
Management Services (Ongoing) The City will expand its comprehensive educational campaign
for residents and businesses that
describes the hazards present in the
community and emphasizes cost-
effective mitigation efforts, such as
proper construction techniques, bracing
of furniture and appliances, and
purchase of additional insurances.

Information will be distributed through
social networking, websites, print media,
radio, television, at special events and in
City facilities, and/or other media as
appropriate.

1.8 Closely monitor changes to the boundaries of hazard- prone areas and adopt new mitigation activities or revise existing ones as appropriate to protect health, safety, property, and overall community well-being.

General
Fund /
HMGP /
PDM
Community Development  (Ongoing) The City will continue to closely monitor changes to the boundaries of
hazard-prone areas and adopt new
mitigation activities or revise existing ones
as appropriate to protect health, safety,
property, and overall community well-being.

1.9 Reference policy direction and other information from this LHMP into other City documents, including the General
Plan Safety Element and Capital Improvements Program.

General
Fund
Community Development  1 - 5 Years

1.10 Continue to partner with the American Red Cross, the County, neighboring cities, public and private schools, and HOAs to provide evacuation and reunification
locations and shelters in an emergency.

General
Fund /
HMGP /
PDM
Public Safety Division (Ongoing) The City will continue to partner with the American Red Cross, the County,
neighboring cities, public and private
schools, and HOAs to provide evacuation
and reunification locations and shelters in an
emergency.

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1.11 Seek funding to hire a consultant to assist in the implementation of mitigation strategies.

General
Fund /
HMGP /

PDM / BRIC
Community Development / Management
Services
1 - 2 Years
Wildfires

2.1 Partner with OCFA to expand outreach regarding home fire safety inspections for residents and businesses in fire-prone areas. Provide information about ways to
retrofit homes and maintain landscapes to improve
resiliency to wildfires.

FMAG/
PDM /
NFPA
Fire / Community Development / PIOs  1 - 5 Years

2.2 Encourage HOAs and property owners in high fire threat districts to replace vegetation with those listed on the OCFA approved plant list.

California
Climate
Investments
Fire
Prevention
Grant
Community Development, Public Works,
in coordination with OCFA
1 - 2 Years

2.3 Coordinate with the HOAs and property owners to ensure the creation of defensible spaces and fuel modification around homes and neighborhoods to reduce vulnerability
and increase the success potential of fire fighters in the case of a wildfire emergency. Partner with the OCFA to
ensure enforcement.

HMGP Community Development (Code
Enforcement) in coordination with
OCFA
1 - 5 Years

2.4 Coordinate with Cal Fire, OCFA, and OCSD during
wildfire events to ensure areas of evacuation are clearly articulated to the community through social media, radio, television, and other platforms as necessary.

FEMA
Public
Assistance
Fund /
EMPG
Management Services/Police Services/
PIO / in collaboration with OCFA
(Ongoing) The City will coordinate with Cal
Fire, OCFA, and OCSD during wildfire
events to ensure areas of evacuation are
clearly articulated to the community through
social media, radio, television, and other
platforms as necessary.

2.5 Develop a fire response time analysis that determines the key factors that affect emergency response issues,
such as street width, type of response apparatus, and
parking restrictions. Outcomes from this analysis should be incorporated into new City policy and standards, if
necessary.

AFG OCFA 1 - 5 Years
Earthquake

3.1 Prepare an inventory of seismically vulnerable City- owned facilities. Explore feasible solutions to mitigate vulnerable buildings and structures to be retrofitted.

BRIC /
HMGP /
Earthquake
Brace and
Public Works 1 - 5 Years
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Bolt
Program

3.2 Monitor changes/updates to building codes and seismic regulations to determine if City owned critical facilities may need seismic retrofits as they age and building
codes are updated.

PDM Community Development  (Ongoing) The City will continue to monitor changes/updates to building codes and
seismic regulations, including the California
Existing Building Code, Appendix A, which
provides guidelines for upgrading the
seismic-resistance capacity of different
types of existing buildings. The City will
assess whether these guidelines have been
adopted by the relevant state agency or
local enforcing agency and determine if City-
owned critical facilities may need seismic
retrofits as they age and building codes are
updated.

3.3 Encourage owners of Critical Facilities as outlined in Chapter 4 to ensure facilities are evaluated for seismic safety. If any critical facilities are determined to be seismically vulnerable, work with the owner to identify potential funding sources to implement seismic retrofits.

HMGP /
CSMIP
Community Development / Public Works

1 - 3 Years

3.4 Improve local understanding of the threat of a major earthquake by conducting a City-wide scenario modeling
potential loss of life and injuries, destroyed and damaged structures, and interruptions to key services.

NEHRP OCFA / Management Services (Ongoing) The City will improve local understanding of the threat of a major
earthquake by conducting a City-wide
scenario modeling potential loss of life and
injuries, destroyed and damaged structures,
and interruptions to key services.

3.5 Encourage the installation of resilient (seismically appropriate) piping for new or replacement pipelines, in close coordination with local water, natural gas, and
other utility service providers.

General
Fund
Public Works 1 - 5 Years

3.6 Conduct an educational campaign to encourage the use of reinforced chimneys, anchored rooftop-mounted
equipment, window film, and other preventative
measures to reduce damage at private buildings.

General
Fund / BRIC
Community Development 1 - 3 Years

3.7 Educate community groups and industry representatives and assist in outreach to residents and businesses to
obtain earthquake insurance through the California
Earthquake Authority
General
Fund
Public Safety / Management Services 1 - 3 Years
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Flood

4.1 Encourage the use of porous surfaces on new and
significantly retrofitted residential and commercial
developments to reduce runoff.

FMA / PDM Community Development / Public
Works
1 - 5 Years

4.2 Conduct periodic cleanings of City owned storm drain intakes in accordance with the City’s NPDES permits.

Similarly encourage HOAs and other property owners to
proactively remove debris from their drainage systems.

FMA / PDM Public Works  (Ongoing) The City will continue to conduct periodic cleanings of City owned storm drain
intakes in accordance with the City's
NPDES permits. Similarly, the City will
encourage HOAs and other property owners
to proactively remove debris from their
drainage systems.

4.3 Educate citizens about safety during flood conditions, including the dangers of driving on flooded roads.

FMA / PDM Management Services/ Public Works/
Public Safety
(Ongoing) 1 - 5 Years

4.4 Retrofit roadway medians to capture storm water during rain events.

FMA / PDM Public Works / Community Development 3 - 5 Years

4.5 Prioritize retrofit improvements along major arterials/ roadways throughout the City.

FMA / PDM Public Works / Community Development 1 - 5 Years

4.6 Encourage all property owners within 100-year and 500- year floodplains to obtain flood insurance and flood proof their structures.

FMA / PDM Community Development / Management
Services
1 - 5 Years
Drought

5.1 When installing new landscapes or significantly redoing existing landscaping on City property, use drought-
tolerant plants or xeriscaping. On City property, limit turf that is not drought-tolerant to recreational fields and lawns, and only if no feasible drought-tolerant alternative exists.

HMGP /
PDM
Public Works / Water Districts 1 - 5 Years

5.2 Coordinate with the City’s water providers to make
drought education materials available and other related incentives for residents and businesses to conserve
water.

HMGP /
PDM
Management Services / Water Districts 1 - 3 Years

5.3 Encourage low-flow water fixtures and daytime watering restrictions on properties throughout the City to reduce water consumption.

HMGP /
PDM
Management Services / Community
Development / Water Districts / PIO
(Ongoing) 1 - 3 Years
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5.4 Educate the community on drought-tolerant landscaping and xeriscaping methods.

HMGP /
PDM
Community Development 1 - 3 Years
Landslides / Mudflows

6.1 Maintain slope stabilization measures on publicly owned hillsides above roads, buildings, and other facilities.

HMGP /
PDM
Public Works  (Ongoing) The City will continue to maintain slope stabilization measures on publicly
owned hillsides above roads, buildings, and
other facilities.

6.2 Educate private property owners on inspection and
maintenance of effective drainage systems and
stabilizing vegetation on and above landslide-prone
slopes.

HMGP /
PDM
Public Works / Community Development 1 - 3 Years

6.3 Following wildfire events, continue to partner with Cal Fire, Orange County Office of Emergency Preparedness,
OCFA, and OCSD, to identify the potential and location
for landslide and/or mudflow events associated with
heavy rainfall.

HMGP /
PDM
Public Works / Management Services
and Public Information Officer, in
coordination with OCSD
(Ongoing) Following wildfire events, the City
will continue to partner with Cal Fire, Orange
County Office of Emergency Preparedness,
OCFA, and OCSD, to identify the potential
and location for landslide and/or mudflow
events associated with heavy rainfall.

6.4 Maintain and update local regulations regarding building and development as needed in landslide-prone areas.

HMGP /
PDM
Public Works  1 - 5 Years
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CHAPTER 6

PLAN MAINTENANCE

This LHMP must be kept up to date to remain functional and relevant to the City. An updated LHMP will continue to guide hazard mitigation actions in the City and will help the City remain eligible for state and federal hazard mitigation funds. The LHMP was created by the Steering Group and Local Hazard Mitigation Working Group with the intention of allowing the City to readily update specific parts as new information becomes available and new requirements arise, hence keeping this Plan up to date.

This chapter describes how to maintain this Plan to comply with applicable state and federal obligations.

This chapter also discusses how the City may incorporate the mitigation efforts (indicated in Chapter 5) into current programs and planning procedures, as well as how public input will continue to play a vital role in Plan monitoring and future update activities.

PLAN MAINTENANCE AND UPDATE METHODOLOGY

PURPOSE AND AUTHORITY

Section 201.6.(d)(3) of Title 44 of the Code of Federal Regulations requires that local hazard mitigation plans be reviewed, revised if appropriate, and resubmitted for approval in order to remain eligible for benefits awarded under DMA. To support maintenance and implementation, this Plan is supported by the Lake Forest Mitigation Implementation Worksheet, provided in Appendix C for reference. The worksheet is intended to function as a stand-alone document that gives concise and accessible guidance to jurisdiction staff for implementing the Plan.

The City plans to review the plan every five years and incorporate updates as needed from the date of initial adoption. The update process will typically commence at least one year before the existing plan expires. City staff will continue to be in charge of maintaining and updating the Plan, as well as reviewing its efficacy as needed. This will be done in coordination with the Steering and Working Groups referenced in Chapter 1. In future years, personnel from the following City departments and contract agencies (existing members or others) should be included in maintenance and update activities:

• Lake Forest Community Development Department
• Orange County Fire Authority
• Orange County Sheriff’s Department
• Lake Forest Public Works Department (including Environmental Compliance and Traffic Divisions)
• Lake Forest Management Services (including Community Services, Public Safety Division and PIO)
• Lake Forest City Manager

As appropriate, staff from other organizations who sat on the Working Group during the preparation of this Plan should be invited to participate in future maintenance and update activities. Other organizations that should be asked to participate in this process are:

• Trabuco Canyon Water District
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• El Toro Water District
• Irvine Ranch Water District
• Emergency managers from neighboring jurisdictions
• Orange County Transportation Authority
• Southern California Edison
• South Orange County Wastewater Authority
• Southern California Edison
• Southern California Gas Company

The Director of Community Development is responsible for future LHMP updates and shall coordinate the Steering Group and Working Group as necessary. The Director and his/her designee will serve as the project manager. The Working Group may alternatively be coordinated by the acting Emergency Manager or Emergency Services Coordinator. The Director of Community Development or his/her designee will organize Plan maintenance, lead formal Plan review and evaluation processes, direct Plan updating, and delegate duties to other Working Group members to execute these efforts. Collecting data, establishing new mitigation activities, updating mitigation actions, providing presentations to City personnel and community groups, and rewriting portions of the Plan document are examples of such responsibilities. Details on Plan monitoring, maintenance update, approval, and adoption are outlined in the process below.

ANNUAL PLAN MONITORING AND MAINTENANCE

As described below, monitoring the progress of the mitigation actions will be ongoing throughout the five- year period between the adoption of the LHMP and the next update effort. The Steering Group will meet on an annual basis to monitor the status of the implementation of mitigation actions and develop updates as necessary. Although FEMA guidance does not outline a monitoring schedule, the City will adopt an annual review model predicated on best practices modeled throughout the nation. In the event of a significant disaster within Lake Forest, the Steering Group will convene within 30 days of the disaster to review and update the LHMP as needed. In addition to City staff, partner agencies, organizations, and stakeholders, may be identified for participation.

These meetings should:

• Discuss the timing of implementing mitigation actions. • Evaluate the actions that are being implemented and determine if these actions are succeeding. • Revise, as needed, the prioritization of mitigation actions. • Integrate the mitigation actions into other mechanisms as needed.

The first of these meetings will be held in the 2024 calendar year. To the extent possible, meetings should be scheduled at an appropriate time in the City’s annual budgeting process, which will help ensure that funding needs for mitigation actions are considered.

When the Steering Group meets to evaluate the Plan, members should consider these questions:

• What hazard events, if any, have occurred in Lake Forest in the past year? What were the impacts of these hazards on the community? Were the impacts mitigated, and if so, how? • What mitigation actions have been successfully implemented? Have any mitigation actions been implemented but not successfully, and if so, why?
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• What mitigation actions, if any, have been scheduled for implementation but have not yet been implemented?
• What is the schedule for implementing future mitigation actions? Is this schedule reasonable? Does the schedule need to be adjusted for future implementation, and are such adjustments appropriate and feasible?
• Have any new issues of concern arisen, including hazard events in other communities or regions, that are not covered by existing mitigation actions?
• Are new data available that could inform updates to the Plan, including data relevant to the hazard profiles and threat assessments?
• Are there any new planning programs, funding sources, or other mechanisms that can support hazard mitigation activities in Lake Forest?

PLAN UPDATE

Title 44, Section 201.6(d)(3) of the Code of Federal Regulations requires that LHMPs be reviewed, revised, and resubmitted for approval every five years to remain eligible for federal benefits. As factors change, including technologies, community demographics and characteristics, best practices, and hazard conditions, it is necessary to update the Plan, so it remains relevant.

The 5-year update process should begin no later than four years after this Plan is adopted, allowing a year for the update process before the Plan expires. The Director of Community Development may also choose to begin the update process sooner, depending on the circumstances. Reasons for accelerating the update process may include:

• A Presidential disaster declaration for the City of Lake Forest or for an area that includes part or the entire city.
• A hazard event that results in one or more fatalities in the City of Lake Forest.

The update process will add new and updated methods, demographic data, community information, hazard data and events, considerations for threat assessments, mitigation actions, and other information as necessary. This will help keep the Plan relevant and current. The Director will determine the best process for updating the Plan, which should include the following steps:

• Involve at least one member from each City department in the Working Group or as a supporting role to contribute as needed.
• Contact non-City organizations that sat on the Working Group during preparation of the Plan or other relevant entities to gauge their interest and involve them in the update process. • Review and update the hazard mapping and threat assessment for Critical Facilities. • Revise the threat assessment for populations and other assets. • Review and revise the mitigation actions as needed, including in response to actions that have been completed, changed, cancelled, or postponed.
• Send a draft of the updated Plan to appropriate external agencies. • Make a draft of the updated Plan available to members of the public for comment. • Following public review, send a draft of the updated plan to Cal OES and FEMA for review and approval.
• City Council will adopt the final updated Plan within one year of beginning the update process and within five years of the adoption of the previous plan.

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ADOPTION

The Lake Forest City Council is responsible for adopting this Plan and all future updates. As previously mentioned, adoption should occur every five years, within one year of the commencement of the update process and before the current Plan expires. The adoption should take place after FEMA notifies the City that the Plan is “Approved Pending Adoption”. Once the City Council adopts the Plan following its approval by FEMA, the Community Development Department will transmit a copy of the adopted Plan to FEMA.

PLAN INCORPORATION

The Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) is integral to the City’s strategic planning, underscoring our commitment to reducing hazard risks through well-coordinated, actionable measures. These measures are meticulously crafted to dovetail with the City's existing planning documents, policies, and regulatory frameworks. The LHMP's implementation is a multi-faceted process, keenly focused on weaving its recommendations into the operational fabric of the City's ongoing and forthcoming plans.

In alignment with the Safety Element of the City's General Plan, the LHMP serves as an actionable extension, detailing specific mitigation actions that build upon the General Plan’s broader safety strategies. To articulate the integration of the LHMP into the City’s planning mechanisms more explicitly, we will establish procedural links that ensure the seamless incorporation of LHMP insights into the Safety Element revisions, zoning regulations, and other planning documents.

The project manager tasked with the LHMP’s stewardship will ensure these connections are not merely theoretical but are actively pursued and reinforced through continuous inter-departmental collaboration.

This includes, but is not limited to, the translation of LHMP's mitigation strategies into language and actions within the City's General Plan updates, Safety Element enhancements, and other related planning efforts.

Furthermore, the LHMP's actions, as identified in Table 19 of Chapter 5, will inform and shape the direction of City initiatives. This approach ensures a strategic alignment with resources as they become available, fostering a resilient community structure. Regular updates, through annual reviews and progress reports, will highlight the integration milestones achieved and will be made accessible to the public through the City’s communication channels.

By interlacing the LHMP with the City's General Plan and Safety Element, we reinforce a cohesive approach to hazard mitigation. This synthesis of plans fortifies the City's resiliency, actively safeguarding Lake Forest’s residents, businesses, visitors, infrastructure, and environmental treasures against the specter of hazards.

PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT

The City will persist in its efforts to inform the public about updates to the LHMP, with particular attention to enhancing participation from vulnerable communities in Lake Forest. The development of a revised community engagement strategy will reflect the City’s updated needs and capabilities, ensuring that outreach efforts are inclusive and accessible. This strategy will include a detailed schedule for public meetings, tailored to accommodate and actively engage all segments of the community, especially those most at risk. Recommendations will be formulated for effective use of the City website and social media accounts to reach diverse audiences, along with the creation of public outreach materials that are clear and readily understood by all community members. The content of these materials will be sensitive to the needs of vulnerable populations, providing them with relevant information and opportunities for active Item: 8
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participation in the planning process. Annual reviews, summarizing mitigation actions, upcoming plans, funding secured, and forthcoming updates, will be made more accessible. These reports will be disseminated through multiple channels, ensuring transparency and encouraging feedback, with the aim of fostering a more resilient community through collaborative effort. All annual progress reports will be made available on the City’s website, with considerations for alternative formats to ensure information is reachable to those in vulnerable circumstances.

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POINT OF CONTACT

The primary point of contact for this Plan:

Amy Stonich, AICP
Assistant Director of Community Development
City of Lake Forest
100 Civic Center Drive
Lake Forest, CA 92630
(949) 461-3479
[email protected]
[email protected]

AUTHORS/KEY CONTRIBUTORS

Jacob Green and Associates
13217 Jamboree Road, Suite 248
Tustin, CA 92782
(888) 454-2178
[email protected]
Arianna Young (née Ford)
Management Assistant – Community Development
City of Lake Forest
100 Civic Center Drive
Lake Forest, CA 92630
(949) 461-3474
[email protected]
Connor Musler
Assistant Planner – Community Development
City of Lake Forest
100 Civic Center Drive
Lake Forest, CA 92630
(949) 461-3491
[email protected]

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

CALIFORNIA CLIMATE INVESTMENTS

This Plan is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide initiative that puts billions of Cap-and- Trade dollars to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy, and improving public health and the environment — particularly in disadvantaged communities.

CAL FIRE’s Wildfire Prevention Grants Program

Funding for this project provided by CAL FIRE’s Wildfire Prevention Grants Program.

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LIST OF SOURCES CITED

AB-2140 General plans: safety element, 1 (2006).
https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=200520060AB2140 Arcadis U.S., Inc. (2021). 2020 Urban Water Management Plan Final. https://eltorowater.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/ETWD-2020-UWMP- FINAL-2021.06.22.pdf
Cal Fire. (2019). Welcome to Cal Fire. Ca.gov. https://www.fire.ca.gov/ Cal-Adapt. (n.d.). Cal-Adapt.org. https://cal-adapt.org/ California Energy Commission. (2019). California Energy Commission. California Energy Commission. https://www.energy.ca.gov/
California Geological Survey. (2020). Ca.gov. https://www.conservation.ca.gov/cgs Capital Improvement Program | OC Public Works: Orange County California. (n.d.).

Ocpublicworks.com. Retrieved August 29, 2023, from https://ocpublicworks.com/ocpw/capital- improvement-program
City of Lake Forest. (2023, August). Current Projects and Recent Decisions | Lake Forest, CA - Official Website. Www.lakeforestca.gov. https://www.lakeforestca.gov/en/departments/community- development/planning/planning-and-development/current-projects-and-recent Department of Homeland Security. (2019). Supply Chain Resilience Guide. chrome- extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/2020- 07/supply-chain-resilience-guide.pdf
Federal Emergency Management Agency. (2022). National Incident Management System Emergency Operations Center How-to Quick Reference Guide.
https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_eoc-quick-reference-guide.pdf Item: 8
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FEMA Flood Map Service Center | Welcome! (2019). Fema.gov. https://msc.fema.gov/portal/home Geographic Names Information System. (n.d.). Edits.nationalmap.gov. Retrieved August 29, 2023, from https://edits.nationalmap.gov/apps/gaz-domestic/public/summary/1656503 Hazard Mitigation Planning | California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services. (n.d.). Caloes.ca.gov. https://www.caloes.ca.gov/office-of-the-director/operations/recovery-directorate/hazard- mitigation/state-hazard-mitigation-planning/
History of Lake Forest | LakeForest.com. (2019, February 21). Lake Forest. https://lakeforest.com/history-of-lake-forest/
Home. (2019). Ca.gov. https://water.ca.gov/
Lake Forest, California History. (n.d.). Www.orangecounty.net. Retrieved August 29, 2023, from https://www.orangecounty.net/cities/LakeForest_history.html Lake Forest, California Population 2022 (Demographics, Maps, Graphs). (2023).

Worldpopulationreview.com. https://worldpopulationreview.com/us-cities/lake-forest-ca- population
Local Mitigation Planning Handbook . (2023). Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Master Plan | Trabuco Canyon Water District. (n.d.). Www.tcwd.ca.gov. Retrieved August 29, 2023, from https://www.tcwd.ca.gov/district-services/engineering/master-plan National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. (2008). National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Noaa.gov. https://www.noaa.gov/
National Weather Service. (2018). National Weather Service. Weather.gov. https://www.weather.gov/ Orange County Public Works. (n.d.). Santa Ana River Project | OC Infrastructure Programs California.

Ocip.ocpublicworks.com. https://ocip.ocpublicworks.com/service-areas/oc-infrastructure- programs/santa-ana-river-project
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Planning Guides | FEMA.gov. (n.d.). Www.fema.gov. https://www.fema.gov/emergency- managers/national-preparedness/plan
Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG). (2019). Profile of the City of Lake Forest. https://scag.ca.gov/sites/main/files/file-attachments/lakeforest_localprofile.pdf?1606012700 Southern California Earthquake Data Center at Caltech. (n.d.). Scedc.caltech.edu. https://scedc.caltech.edu/
U.S. Drought Monitor. (2011, December 31). Unl.edu. https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/ United States Census Bureau. (2022, June). U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: Lake Forest city, California.

Www.census.gov.
https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/lakeforestcitycalifornia/PST045222 United States Geological Survey. (n.d.-a). Geographic Names Information System. Edits.nationalmap.gov.

Retrieved August 29, 2023, from https://edits.nationalmap.gov/apps/gaz- domestic/public/summary/1656503
United States Geological Survey. (n.d.-b). The Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale | U.S. Geological Survey. Www.usgs.gov. Retrieved August 29, 2023, from
https://www.usgs.gov/programs/earthquake-hazards/modified-mercalli-intensity- scale#:~:text=The%20scale%20lists%20criteria%20that
United States. Federal Emergency Management Agency. (2013). Local mitigation planning handbook.

U.S. Dept. Of Homeland Security, Fema.

US Census Bureau. (2019). American Community Survey (ACS). Census.gov. https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/acs
User, S. (n.d.-a). Los Alisos Water Recycling Plant. Irvine Ranch Water District. Retrieved August 29, 2023, from https://www.irwd.com/construction/los-alisos-recycled-water-plant Item: 8
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User, S. (n.d.-b). Urban Water Management Plan. Irvine Ranch Water District. Retrieved August 29, 2023, from https://www.irwd.com/doing-business/urban-water-management-plan USGS. (2019). USGS.gov | Science for a changing world. Usgs.gov. https://www.usgs.gov/ USGS. (2020). When will it happen again? Usgs.gov.
https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/events/1906calif/18april/whenagain.php Western Regional Climate Center. (n.d.). Wrcc.dri.edu. https://wrcc.dri.edu/

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CITY OF LAKE FOREST

APPENDICES

LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN

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APPENDIX A
Meeting Materials

1. Hazard Mitigation Working Group Meeting #1 materials and sign-in sheet

2. Hazard Mitigation Working Group Meeting #2 materials and sign-in sheet

3. Hazard Mitigation Working Group Meeting #3 materials and sign-in sheet

4. Hazard Mitigation Working Group Meeting #4 materials and sign-in sheet

5. Hazard Mitigation Working Group Meeting #5 materials and sign-in sheet

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City of Lake Forest LHMP Kick-Off Agenda

HMWG Meeting #1
Wednesday, November 16, 2022, 3:00 – 4:00 pm (PST)
Location: Remote (Zoom)

Purpose/Expectations
• Purpose, Goals, and Opportunities
• FEMA Expectations
• Participant Expectations
Introductions
• Position
• Years in Service
• Prior LHMP Experience
Plan Overview
• Lake Forest LHMP Components
• Involvement
Timeline
• Estimated Milestones/Completion Date
Community Outreach Discussion
• Brainstorm Community Outreach Methods & Locations
Due Outs/Next Meeting
• Document Locations
• Expectations Moving Forward
• Demographics, Community Profiles, and Updates

1. Hazard Mitigation Working Group Meeting #1 materials and sign-in sheet

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Meeting ID Topic Start Time End Time

8.4368E+10
Lake Forest Hazard Mitigation
Working Group Meeting 1 ##########
#########
#

Name (Original Name) User Email
Total
Duration
(Minutes) Guest
William Simmons (Jacob Green
and Associates Specialist) 59 No
Raymond Cheung 57 Yes
fmarzara1 57 Yes
Cheryl Kuta - Rancho Santa Margarita 54 Yes
Robert Craven 54 Yes
Jonathan Volzke 54 Yes
City of Lake Forest - Tom Wheeler 53 Yes
Amy Stonich# AICP 52 Yes
ArFord 52 Yes
VBlethen 52 Yes
Steve Choi 52 Yes
chrisl 52 Yes
Kevin Robertson 51 Yes
Rob Stauffacher (#3 Rob Stauffacher) 51 Yes
Connor Musler 50 Yes
Joe Ames# City of Laguna Hills 49 Yes
Zoran Falkenstein 47 Yes

1.7144E+10 44 Yes
Sherri Seitz# ETWD 44 Yes
So Kim (So Kim) 42 Yes

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City of Lake Forest LHMP Agenda
14 December 2022

HMWG Meeting #2
Wednesday, December 14, 2022, 3:00 – 4:00 pm (PST)
Location: Remote (Zoom)

Previous Meeting Recap
• Community Outreach
• Progress
• Roadblocks
Demographics
• Current Data
• Committee Feedback (additions or requests)
• Roadblocks
Community Profile Overview
• Progress
• Committee Input
• Roadblocks
Close
• Due outs by next meeting (11 January 3pm PST)
• Next Meeting Topic

2. Hazard Mitigation Working Group Meeting #2 materials and sign-in sheet

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Meeting ID Topic Start Time End Time

8.4368E+10
Lake Forest Hazard Mitigation
Working Group Meeting 2 ##########
#########
#

Name (Original Name) User Email
Total
Duration
(Minutes) Guest
William Simmons (Jacob Green
and Associates Specialist) 48 No
Baryic Hunter 44 Yes
Darrell Hill (Darrell Hill) 42 Yes
Raymond Cheung 42 Yes
Amy Stonich# AICP 40 Yes
fmarzara1 40 Yes
Simon Shin 39 Yes
Nick Gates 39 Yes
Connor Musler 37 Yes
City of Lake Forest - Tom Wheeler 36 Yes
Jeremy Albrecht (Jeremy) 37 Yes
ArFord 37 Yes
Rose Rivera 37 Yes
Jennifer Mansur# AICP 36 Yes
Jonathan Volzke# Lake Forest 36 Yes
Tran Tran 33 Yes
Robert Craven 28 Yes
Joe Ames# City of Laguna Hills 31 Yes

1.9494E+10 20 Yes
Peter Meier 17 Yes
Cheryl Kuta - Rancho Santa Margarita 5 Yes

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City of Lake Forest LHMP Agenda
11 January 2023

HMWG Meeting #3
Wednesday, January 11, 2023, 3:00 – 4:00 pm (PST)
Location: Remote (Zoom)

Community Outreach
• Spreadsheet Review
• Progress
• Needs
Community Profile Component Review
• Progress
• Needs
Risk and Vulnerability Assessment
• Hazard Identification
• Community Assets & Critical Infrastructure
• Needs
Close
• Due outs
• Next Meeting Timing & Topic
• Closing Thoughts

3. Hazard Mitigation Working Group Meeting #3 materials and sign-in sheet

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Meeting ID Topic Start Time End Time

8.4368E+10
Lake Forest Hazard Mitigation
Working Group Meeting 3 ##########
#########
#

Name (Original Name) User Email
Total
Duration
(Minutes) Guest
William Simmons (Jacob Green
and Associates Specialist) 123 No
Amy Stonich# AICP 77 Yes
Raymond Cheung 76 Yes
rabasal 7 Yes
ArFord 72 Yes
Connor Musler 72 Yes
Darrell Hill# Lake Forest 71 Yes
Jonathan Volzke# Lake Forest 60 Yes
Baryic Hunter 60 Yes
Sara Sperazza (Sara Sperazza) 59 Yes
VBlethen 59 Yes
fmarzara1 29 Yes
Mary V 51 Yes
Jeremy Albrecht# Applied Medical 57 Yes
City of Lake Forest - Tom Wheeler 57 Yes
City of Mission Viejo - Paul Catsimanes 1 Yes
CHRIS LOPEZ 55 Yes
Tran Tran 56 Yes
Joe Ames# City of Laguna Hills 55 Yes

1.7144E+10 55 Yes
Devin Slaven 55 Yes
So Kim 55 Yes
Paul’s iPhone 29 Yes
Sherri Seitz# ETWD 53 Yes
Zoran Falkenstein 52 Yes
Jennifer Mansur# AICP 51 Yes
Gayle Ackerman 50 Yes
Simon Shin 43 Yes

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City of Lake Forest LHMP Agenda
08 February 202 3

HMWG Meeting #4
Wednesday, February 08, 2023, 3:00 – 4:00 pm (PST)
Location: Remote (Zoom)

Welcome Items
• Congratulations
• Introductions

Community Outreach
• Progress
• Community Outreach Meeting Discus sion
o Timeline
o Agenda
o Supplies
Hazard Identification & Critical Infrastructure Review & Ranking • Progress
• Needs
HMP Review
• Chapters 1-3 Discussion
Close
• Due outs
• Next Meeting Timing & Topic
• Closing Thoughts

4. Hazard Mitigation Working Group Meeting #4 materials and sign-in sheet

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Meeting ID Topic Start Time End Time

8.4368E+10
Lake Forest Hazard Mitigation
Working Group Meeting 4 ##########
#########
#

Name (Original Name) User Email
Total
Duration
(Minutes) Guest
William Simmons (Jacob Green
and Associates Specialist) 55 No
Raymond Cheung 55 Yes
fmarzara1 54 Yes
Cheryl Kuta - Rancho Santa Margarita 54 Yes
Robert Craven 54 Yes
Jonathan Volzke 54 Yes
City of Lake Forest - Tom Wheeler 53 Yes
Amy Stonich# AICP 52 Yes
ArFord 52 Yes
VBlethen 53 Yes
Steve Choi 52 Yes
chrisl 52 Yes
Kevin Robertson 51 Yes
Rob Stauffacher (#3 Rob Stauffacher) 51 Yes
Connor Musler 51 Yes
Joe Ames# City of Laguna Hills 49 Yes
Zoran Falkenstein 48 Yes

1.7144E+10 44 Yes
Sherri Seitz# ETWD 43 Yes
So Kim (So Kim) 41 Yes

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City of Lake Forest LHMP Agenda
22 March 2023

HMWG Meeting #5
Wednesday, March 22, 2023, 3:00 – 4:00 pm (PST)
Location: Remote (Zoom)

Progress to Date
• Outreach
• Hazards
• Vulnerabilities

Mitigation Planning
• Goals
• Risk Assessment
o Hazards
o Vulnerabilities
• Mitigation Actions Discussed
• Additional Actions
Close
• Due outs
o Capabilities
• Upcoming Events
o Public Review
o CAL OES
• Questions

5. Hazard Mitigation Working Group Meeting #5 materials and sign-in sheet

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Meeting ID Topic Start Time End Time

8.4368E+10
Lake Forest Hazard Mitigation Working
Group Meeting 5 ##########
#########
#

Name (Original
Name) User Email
Total Duration
(Minutes) Guest
William
Simmons 81 No
Amy Stonich# AICP 64 Yes
Connor Musler 58 Yes
Sara Sperazza# SOCCCD (Sara Sperazza) 56 Yes
ArFord 56 Yes
Raymond Cheung 52 Yes
Katrina Faulkner 48 Yes
Sherri Seitz 43 Yes
Jeremy Albrecht (Jeremy) 33 Yes
Faye Yuan 41 Yes
So Kim 39 Yes
Joe Ames# City of Laguna Hills 40 Yes
Simon Shin 40 Yes
Darrell Hill 39 Yes
CHRIS LOPEZ 39 Yes
Zoran Falkenstein 37 Yes
Tran Tran 28 Yes
Jennifer Mansur# City of Lake Forest 26 Yes

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APPENDIX B
Community Outreach Materials

1. Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) Website

2. Social Media Outreach Information

3. Community Outreach Meeting Presentation 2.22.2023

4. Community Outreach Flyers (English and Spanish)

5. Community Outreach Survey (English)

6. Community Outreach Survey (Spanish)

7. Community Outreach Survey Results (English)

8. Community Outreach Survey Results (Spanish)

9. Community Outreach Survey Results (Senior Event)

10. City e-Newsletter

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1. Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) Website

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2. Social Media Outreach Information

DATE PLATFORM INTERACTION LINK
7 February '23 Facebook 3 likes / 3 shares / 11k
followers
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=549078673917894&set=a.46 8826348609794
13 January '23 Facebook 5 likes / 1 share / 11k
followers
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=532375825588179&set=a.46 8826348609794
7 February '23 Twitter 2 retweets / 2 like /
512 views / 7,111
followers
https://twitter.com/LakeForestCA/status/1623019720646569985 13 January '23 Twitter 1 retweet / 2 likes /
545 views / 7,111
followers
https://twitter.com/LakeForestCA/status/1614059694225604609 17 January '23 Nextdoor 26,871 subscribers https://nextdoor.com/agency-post/ca/lake-forest/city-of-lake- forest/we-want-your-input-254131744/
7 February '23 Instagram 6 likes / 8,177
followers
https://www.instagram.com/cityoflakeforestca/
13 January '23 Instagram 17 likes / 8,177
followers
https://www.instagram.com/cityoflakeforestca/

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City of Lake Forest
Hazard Mitigation Community Outreach
Meeting
February 22, 2023

3. Community Outreach Meeting Presentation 2.22.2023

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Agenda Items

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Introduction

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The What

A plan that assesses hazard
vulnerabilities and identifies mitigation
actions that the City will pursue in order to
reduce the level of injury, property
damage, and community disruption that
might otherwise result from such events.

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The Why

To promote
discussion
among
community
members
about creating
a safer, more
resilient
community
that reflects
the City’s
values.

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Hazard Identification

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Federal Disaster Declarations for Orange County since 1969 Disaster
Type
Frequency Amplifying Data
Fire 18 (13 since 2006)
Flood 9 (2 in the past 10 years)
Severe Storm 6 (Most recent 2005)
Other 4 2x Earthquakes 1x Hurricane
1x Biological

Federal Disaster Declarations for Lake Forest
(Fiscal)
Year
Incident Type Incident Title
2020 Fire Silverado Fire
2020 Biological COVID-19
2007 Fire SANTIAGO FIRE
1998 Severe Storm SEVERE WINTER STORMS AND FLOODING
1995 Severe Storm SEVERE WINTER STORMS, FLOODING, LANDSLIDES, MUD FLOWS 1993 Flood SEVERE WINTER STORM, MUD & LAND SLIDES, & FLOODING

Local Hazard History
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Hazard Identification Discussion

Low Impact

medium Impact

High Impact
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Future Opportunities

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Draft Review WWW.LAKEFORESTCA.GOV

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Survey

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Completion

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Questions?

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M o r e i n f o r m a t i o n a t : l a k e f o r e s t c a .g o v / LH M P Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
WE WANT YOUR INPUT:

What are the threats of disaster facing the City? Share your thoughts at a Community Meeting on February 22. The feedback provided will be considered when developing the City's disaster mitigation plan.

The City's outreach meeting is on:

Wednesday, February 22 | 6 - 7 p.m.

Maple Room at the Lake Forest Civic Center, 10 0 Civic Center Dr.

Those who cannot attend
can take the 5-minute
online survey here
bit.ly/ lakeforestsurvey
Survey ends March 17
M o r e i n f o r m a t i o n a t : l a k e f o r e s t c a .g o v / LH M P Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
WE WANT YOUR INPUT:

What are the threats of disaster facing the City? Share your thoughts at a Community Meeting on February 22. The feedback provided will be considered when developing the City's disaster mitigation plan.

The City's outreach meeting is on:

Wednesday, February 22 | 6 - 7 p.m.

Maple Room at the Lake Forest Civic Center, 10 0 Civic Center Dr.

Those who cannot attend
can take the 5-minute
online survey here
bit.ly/ lakeforestsurvey
Survey ends March 17

4. Community Outreach Flyers (English and Spanish)

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5. Community Outreach Survey (English)

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6. Community Outreach Survey (Spanish)

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7. Community Outreach Survey Results (English)

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8. Community Outreach Survey Results (Spanish)

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9. Community Outreach Survey Results (Senior Event)

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10. City e-Newsletter

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APPENDIX C

ADOPTION RESOLUTION
City Council resolution of adoption

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ATTACHMENT 2
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U.S. Department of Homeland Security
FEMA Region 9
1111 Broadway, Suite 1200
Oakland, CA 94607-4052

www.fema.gov

July 31, 2024

Amy Stonich
Assistant Director of Community Development
Community Development
100 Civic Center Drive
Lake Forest, CA 92630

Dear Amy Stonich:

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has completed its review of the Lake Forest Local Hazard Mitigation Plan 2023 and has determined that this plan is eligible for final approval pending its adoption by the City of Lake Forest.

Formal adoption documentation must be submitted to FEMA Region 9 within one calendar year of the date of this letter, or the entire plan must be updated and resubmitted for review. FEMA will approve the plan upon receipt of the documentation of formal adoption.

If you have any questions regarding the planning or review processes, please contact the FEMA Region 9 Hazard Mitigation Planning Team at [email protected].

Sincerely,

Alison Kearns
Planning and Implementation Branch Chief
Mitigation Division
FEMA Region 9

Enclosure (1)
Lake Forest Plan Review Tool, dated July 31, 2024

cc: Robyn Fennig, State Hazard Mitigation Officer, California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services
Victoria LaMar-Haas, Hazard Mitigation Planning Chief, California Governor’s Office of Emergency Service
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