Town of Paradise
Town Council Adjourned Agenda
6:00 PM – November 07, 2022
Town of Paradise Council Chamber – 5555 Skyway, Paradise, CA
Meeting Procedures
I. The Mayor is the Presiding Chair and is responsible for maintaining an orderly meeting. The Mayor calls the meeting to order and introduces each item on the agenda.
II. The Town staff then provides a report to Council and answers questions from the Council.
III. Citizens are encouraged to participate in the meeting process and are provided several opportunities to address Council. Any speaker addressing the Council is limited to three minutes per speaker - fifteen minutes per agenda item A. If you wish to address the Council regarding a specific agenda item, please complete a “Request to Address Council” card and give it to the Town Clerk prior to the beginning of the meeting. This process is voluntary and allows for citizens to be called to the speaker podium in alphabetical order.
Comments and questions from the public must be directed to the Presiding Chair and Town Council Members (please do not address staff.) Town staff is available to address citizen concerns Monday through Thursday at Town Hall between the hours of 8am and 5pm.
B. If you wish to address Council regarding an item not on the agenda, you may do so under Item 4, “Public Communication.” Again, please fill out a card and give it to the Town Clerk before the meeting. State Law prohibits Council action on items not listed on a public agenda.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance, persons who need special accommodations to participate in the Town Council meeting may contact the Town Clerk at least three business days prior to the date of the meeting to provide time for any such accommodation.
Town Manager, Kevin Phillips
Town Attorney, Scott E. Huber
Town Clerk/Elections Official, Dina Volenski
CDD, Planning & Onsite, Susan Hartman
CDD, Building & Code Enforcement, Tony Lindsey
Finance Director/Town Treasurer – Ross Gilb
Public Works Director/Town Engineer, Marc Mattox
Division Chief, CAL FIRE/Paradise Fire, Patrick Purvis
Chief of Police, Eric Reinbold
Recovery & Economic Development Director, Colette Curtis Human Resources & Risk Management Director, Crystal Peters Information Systems Director, Luis Marquez
Mayor, Steve Crowder
Vice Mayor, Greg Bolin
Council Member, Steve “Woody” Culleton
Council Member, Jody Jones
Council Member, Rose Tryon
1 1. OPENING
1a. Call to Order
1b. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America 1c. Invocation
1d. Roll Call
1e. A moment of silence acknowledging the fourth anniversary of the November 8, 2018 Camp Fire.
1f. p6 Proclamation - Recognizing retiring VIP David Saul for 19 years of service.
1g. p7 Proclamation recognizing November as Homeless and Runaway Youth Awareness Month.
1h. Presentation - Camp Fire Recovery Update - Colette Curtis 1i. Camp Fire Recovery Updates - Written reports are included in the agenda packet.
p8 Colette Curtis, Recovery and Economic Development Director - Recovery projects, Advocacy, Economic Recovery and Development, Communications and Emergency Operations.
p11 Marc Mattox, Public Works Director/Town Engineer - Infrastructure and Sewer Update
p13 Tony Lindsey, CDD-Building and Code Enforcement - Code Enforcement Update
p19 Kate Anderson, Business and Housing Manager - Business and Housing Update
2. CONSENT CALENDAR
One roll call vote is taken for all items. Consent items are considered to be routine business that does not call for discussion.
2a. p21 Approve minutes of the October 11, 2022 Regular Council meeting. 2b. p27 Approve October 2022 Cash Disbursements in the amount of $4,585,759.74.
2c. p35 Adopt Resolution No. 2022-74, "A Resolution of the Town Council of the Town of Paradise Accepting Contract No. 7302.CON, On-System Hardscape Replacement Project, performed by Franklin Construction, Inc., Chico, CA."
2d. p38 Adopt Resolution No. 2022-75, "A Resolution of the Town Council of the Town of Paradise Accepting Contract No. 8403.CON, Skyway and Pearson Road Traffic Signal Repair Project, Performed by Bear Electrical Solutions, Inc., Alviso, CA."
2e. p41 Waive the second reading of the entire Town Ordinance No. 622 and approve reading by title only; and, Adopt Town Ordinance No. 622. " An Ordinance Of The Town Of Paradise Repealing Paradise Municipal Code 2 Chapters 15.01, 15.02, 15.03, 15.04, 15.05, 15.06, 15.07, 15.08, 15.09, 3 15.10, 15.11, 15.12, 15.13 And Adopting New Chapters 15.01, 15.02,
15.03, 15.04, 15.05, 15.06, 15.07, 15.08, 15.09, 15.10, 15.11, 15.12, 15.13,
15.14, And 15.15 And Making Findings Of Facts Relating To Local Climatic, Geological, And Topographic Conditions, All Relating To The Amendments And Adoption Of The 2022 California Building Standards Code." 2f. p74 Review and file the 1st Quarter Investment Report for the Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2023.
3. ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR
4. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION
For matters that are not on the Council business agenda, speakers are allowed three (3) minutes to address the Council. The Town Council is prohibited from taking action on matters that are not listed on the public agenda. The Council may briefly respond for clarification and may refer the matter to the Town staff.
5. PUBLIC HEARINGS
For items that require a published legal notice and/or a mailed notice.
Public Hearing Procedure:
A. Staff Report
B. Mayor opens the hearing for public comment in the following order:
i. Project proponents (in favor of proposal)
ii. Project opponents (against proposal)
iii. Rebuttals – if requested
C. Mayor closes the hearing
D. Council discussion and vote
5a. p97 1. Conduct the duly noticed and scheduled public hearing to solicit comments and/or suggestions regarding the Draft 2019-2023 Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) Plan; and, 2. Adopt the Draft 2019-2023 Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) Plan as submitted; or, 1.
Revise the Draft 2019-2023 Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) Plan as submitted; and, 2. Adopt Resolution No. 2022-____ “A Resolution of the Town Council of the Town of Paradise Authorizing the Application and Adopting The PLHA Plan For The Permanent Local Housing Allocation Program”. (ROLL CALL VOTE)
5b. p109 Upon conclusion of the duly noticed and scheduled public hearing of the Paradise Sewer Project, consisting of the design, right of way acquisition and construction for the core collection system, extended collection system, export pipeline and connection to the City of Chico Water Pollution Control Plant, consider adopting a resolution, or an alternative action:
a) Consider adopting Town of Paradise Resolution No. 2022-___, “A Resolution of the Town Council of the Town of Paradise Certifying the Final Programmatic Environmental Impact Report with CEQA findings for significant environmental impacts, and adoption of Mitigation, Monitoring and Reporting Program for the Paradise Sewer Project"; and b) Consider adopting the Final Programmatic Environmental Impact Report 3 (Final PEIR) for use in conjunction with the Paradise Sewer Project, or other action; or
c) Provide alternative action (ROLL CALL VOTE)
Due to the size of the document, the Paradise Sewer Project PEIR can also be found at https://paradisesewer.com/virtual-room/. A public view copy is also available for review at the Town Clerk’s window at Town Hall, at 5555 Skyway, Paradise, CA 95969.
6. COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
Action items are presented by staff and the vote of each Council Member must be announced. A roll call vote is taken for each item on the action calendar.
Citizens are allowed three (3) minutes to comment on agenda items. 6a. p1783 Consider adopting Resolution No. 2022-___, "A Resolution of the Town Council of the Town of Paradise Authorizing a Financial Assistance Application to the State Water Resources Control Board for the Paradise Sewer Project and Designating the Town Manager or Designee to Sign and Submit the Application." (ROLL CALL VOTE)
6b. p1787 Consider adopting Resolution No. 2022-___, “A Resolution of the Town Council of the Town of Paradise Authorizing and Approving Execution of a Grant Agreement to Receive an Allocation of Funding from the 2018 CDBG-DR Infrastructure Program and any Forthcoming Amendments, Thereto.” (ROLL CALL VOTE)
6c. p1792 After presentation, review and file the financial information provided by staff concerning the FY 2022-23 operating and capital budgets; and, Approve staff recommended budget adjustments. (ROLL CALL VOTE) 6d. p1865 Consider adopting Resolution No. 2022-___, "A Resolution of the Town Council of the Town of Paradise Approving the Plans and Specifications for the 2023 On-System Road Rehabilitation Project and Authorizing Advertisement for Bids on the Project." (ROLL CALL VOTE) 6e. p1872 Consider directing staff to submit a formal request to FEMA designating FEMA-4407-DR-CA PA ID: 007-55520-00 PW 363 as an Improved Project. (ROLL CALL VOTE)
6f. p1881 Consider adopting Resolution No.2022-___, "A Resolution of the Town Council of the Town of Paradise Approving the Plans and Specifications for the Off-System Road Rehabilitation Project and Authorizing Advertisement for Bids on the Project." (ROLL CALL VOTE) 6g. p1888 Upon conclusion of public discussion of the findings of the Transportation Master Plan supplemental Honey Run Road analysis, relating to the Honey Run Road reopening, consider a resolution, or an alternative action:
Consider adopting Town of Paradise Resolution No. 2022-____, “A Resolution of the Town Council of the Town of Paradise Expressing a Desire to Reopen Honey Run Road between Town Limits and Honey View Terrace as a Historical Community Route with Vehicular Speed, Weight, 4 5 and Length Restrictions”; or, Provide alternative action. (ROLL CALL VOTE)
6h. p1905 Consider awarding Contracts 9419.TH, 9419.FD, and 9419.PD for various improvements to Town Hall, Station 81 and Police Department buildings to the lowest, responsible, responsive bidder (actual bid results to be presented at Council meeting). (ROLL CALL VOTE)
6i. p1907 Consider reviewing and adopting the Long-Term Recovery Plan Update, prepared by Urban Design Associates. (ROLL CALL VOTE)
6j. p2094 Consider approving the guidelines for the Commercial Sign Removal Program; and the Business Investment Grant Program; or give alternate direction to staff. (ROLL CALL VOTE)
6k. p2100 Consider discussion and providing staff with consensus on proposed standards for an Ordinance relating to the creation of short-term rental zoning regulations to present for adoption at a future council meeting; or, provide alternative direction to Town staff.
7. COUNCIL INITIATED ITEMS AND REPORTS
7a. Council initiated agenda items
7b. Council reports on committee representation
7c. Future Agenda Items
8. STAFF COMMUNICATION
8a. Town Manager Report
Community Development Director
9. CLOSED SESSION - None
10. ADJOURNMENT
5 Town of Paradise, California
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, David Saul was appointed a Volunteer in Police Service (VIPS) by Police Chief Jerry Carrigan in 2003; and, WHEREAS, David Saul is retiring from serving the community of Paradise as a member of the VIPS after 19 years of service; and, WHEREAS, David Saul has served on the VIPS Patrol, Traffic and Disaster and Special Events details; and
WHEREAS, David Saul has volunteered for over 6000 hours of VIPS service; and
WHEREAS, The Town Council of the Town of Paradise
recognizes the valuable contribution to the betterment of the community from VIPS members who spend numerous hours in the service of the Town with no compensation.
WHEREAS, David Saul has generously donated his time and energy for the public good and performed his duties as a VIPS member with thoughtfulness and professionalism.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Steve Crowder, Mayor of the Town of
Paradise, do hereby recognize and express appreciation to David Saul for his dedicated service to the Town of Paradise.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and
caused the official seal of the Town of Paradise to be affixed hereto this 7 th day of November, 2022.
________________________________
Steve Crowder, Mayor
6 Town of Paradise, California
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, California has an estimated 200,000 homeless youth, including some 2,000 K-12 students in Butte County; and,
WHEREAS, Approximately 25% of youth exiting foster care will experience homelessness; and,
WHEREAS, Natural disaster and lack of affordable housing have exacerbated youth homelessness across rural California; and,
WHEREAS, A high percentage of homeless youth have been physically, sexually and/or emotionally abused by their guardians and are frequently re-victimized and exploited while living on the streets and in shelters; and, WHEREAS, due to the lack of stable housing, homeless youth face great difficulty in accessing stabilizing, and succeeding in school, reducing the likely hood of successful graduation; and,
WHEREAS, the citizens of Paradise, California are the key to preventing youth homelessness by acting as mentors and role models for youth, guiding them towards available resources, productive choices and creating opportunities for youth to successfully transition to adulthood; and,
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Steve Crowder Mayor of the Town of Paradise on behalf of the Town of Paradise and the citizens of Paradise, California, by virtue of the authority vested in me, do hereby proclaim November 2021 as Homeless and Runaway Youth Awareness Month in the Town of Paradise
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the official seal of the Town of Paradise to be affixed hereto this 7 th day of November, 2021.
________________________________
Steve Crowder, Mayor
7 Town of Paradise
Council Agenda Summary
Date: November 7, 2022
Agenda Item: 1(i)
ORIGINATED BY: Colette Curtis, Recovery and Economic
Development Director
REVIEWED BY: Kevin Phillips, Town Manager
SUBJECT: Monthly Recovery Update
LONG TERM
RECOVERY PLAN:
Yes
COUNCIL ACTION REQUESTED:
1. None
Background:
This report continues the Monthly Updates provided to keep the Town Council apprised of important developments related to the recovery of the Town of Paradise from the Camp Fire.
Included in this update are items related to recovery projects, advocacy economic recovery and development, communications and emergency operations.
Analysis:
ECONOMC DEVELOPMENT
Business Assistance Programs
Following Council approval in the 2022-23 Fiscal Year budget, a stakeholder committee drafted guidelines for two business assistance programs:
o A sign removal/replacement program.
o A program to incentivize commercial investment in Paradise, whether the business is new, returning, or existing.
Councilmembers Jones and Culleton were appointed to the committee. The draft program guidelines are on tonight’s Council agenda as item 6j.
Business Retention and Attraction
Big Lots is still moving forward in the old Rite Aid building. Opening November 2022. A national clothing retailer is planning to occupy the other side of the old Kmart building, next to Tractor Supply. We expect to receive their permit applications very soon. Paradise Brew Werks, a local microbrewery, is moving forward with plans to establish themselves in Town. They have acquired property on Skyway (old Big 5 Property).
CDBG-DR Economic Development
The Butte County allocation for CDBG DR Economic Development has been announced at $18.7 million.
The Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) is expected to be released in January 2023, 8 and we will have more information on what projects will be eligible. In preparation, the Town is working with our regional workforce partners on potential projects.
RECOVERY
Category 4 Tree Removal Program
We opened the program to applicants on July 25th and received over 577 applicants.
This represents 1,014 acres of private property across the Town. As of October 24, 2022, our arborists have assessed 421 of the properties and marked 5,132 trees for submission to FEMA/CalOES for removal. 156 Parcels remain in the assessment process.
Undergoing Federal Environmental Review of Removal Phase of Project. We anticipate this process will be complete this Fall.
Tree cutting process would commence after full phase 2 approval of submitted tree inventory.
Early Warning System
The Early Warning System was fully approved in April 2022 and a contract was awarded in July 2022.
Our contractor has ordered long lead-time materials and is working on coordinating utilities for each of the 21 sites.
We will be working with Police and Fire Departments to determine which towers (if any) would benefit from having internal video camera access to view major intersections and/or horizon lines for fire detection.
Residential Ignition Resistant Retrofit Program
Undergoing Federal Environmental Review. We anticipate this process will be complete this Fall.
All other Town required action items are complete
Phase 1 process of enrollment is being formalized with the intent to open to applicants this Winter.
Hazardous Fuels Reduction Program
Undergoing Federal Environmental Review. We anticipate this process will be complete this Fall.
All other Town required action items are complete.
Defensible Space Code Enforcement
Undergoing Federal Environmental Review. We anticipate this process will be complete this Fall.
All other Town required action items are complete.
Abatement Update
11 property owners enrolled in the private program and have not removed their hazardous trees. (3 have enrolled in CAT4 Program)
9 91 property owners who have not removed their hazardous trees. (-13 from October Council Report)
There are currently 102 non-compliant properties. This is down from 1500 in July 2020 and 850 in January of 2021.
We continue to move properties forward with a complaint driven legal abatement process.
COMMUNICATIONS
Paradise Rotary Vocational Committee Career Expo November 18th o Career expo planned for Paradise students in 5th-12th grades o Local businesses and agencies participating to promote vocational opportunities within our community.
4
th Anniversary of the Camp Fire
o Town staff will give a full update on recovery to date at the November Council meeting.
o A press packet with up-to-date recovery information will be supplied to any media looking for information on recovery.
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
Monthly training sessions for each EOC section have begun. A table top EOC exercise is being planned later this month. A full scale EOC exercise is in the initial planning stages for Spring 2023 o The exercise will involve the community and cooperator agencies o A months long information and education campaign will precede the exercise o The Early Warning System will be utilized as part of the exercise Financial Impact:
None.
10 1
TOWN OF PARADISE
Council Agenda Summary
Date: October 11, 2022
Agenda No. 1(i)
ORIGINATED BY: Marc Mattox, Public Works Director / Town Engineer REVIEWED BY: Kevin Phillips, Town Manager
SUBJECT: Camp Fire Recovery Updates - Infrastructure
COUNCIL ACTION REQUESTED:
1. None, written monthly update only.
Background:
This report continues the Monthly Disaster Recovery Updates provided to keep the Town Council apprised of important developments related to the recovery of the Town of Paradise from the Camp Fire.
Analysis:
Road Rehabilitation
As previously covered in related Agenda Summaries and Updates, the Town of Paradise has secured funding from both FEMA and Federal Highways Administration for the purposes of road rehabilitation associated with Camp Fire damages from the fire itself, debris removal and tree removal operations. These projects cover all Town of Paradise publicly owned and maintained roadways.
A revised paving plan has been published here:
https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1w-PjuvtL5rmmOj_EM-4IFaj7sVYVRs&ll=39.763511840651375%2C-121.61120815000001&z=13 This paving plan informs residents of which roads are expected to be paved in which calendar year. The plan will be updated frequently as actual field conditions change.
The first project in this series, Skyway between Crossroads and Westchester Way has started construction with minor road work during daytime hours and major work during evening hours in late August and September. Overall project completion is anticipated in November with only final striping remaining to be completed.
Further, staff is requesting approval for Plans, Specifications and Estimates and advertisement of 2023 planned paving projects.
Paradise Sewer Project
Efforts for Past Month:
Previous Updates: The Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board (Regional Board) hosts meetings of the Sewer Regionalization Project Advisory Committee (SRPAC).
The SRPAC last met on March 21, 2022 at the City of Chico council chambers and 11 2
finalized the first draft of the Principles of Agreement (POA). The POA will serve as a starting point for drafting an inter-municipal agreement (IMA) between Paradise and Chico to address treatment of Paradise wastewater at the Chico Water Pollution Control Plant.
Information about SRPAC meetings, including agendas and meeting minutes, are at www.paradisesewer.com.
Preparing the Final EIR. Worked on responses to Draft EIR comments, including comments received from the Butte County Department of Public Works. Continued to update the project’s public website (www.paradisesewer.com). Completed first draft of the IMA, and conveyed to City of Chico staff for review. Continued funding application efforts.
Efforts for Next Month:
Complete work on the Final EIR, including responses to the Draft EIR comments. A public hearing on the Final EIR will be held November 7th at 6:00 pm at the Paradise Town Hall Council chambers (see www.paradisesewer.com and attached for further information).
Work on the second draft of the IMA, obtaining input from City of Chico staff. Continue funding application efforts.
12
Town of Paradise
Council Agenda Summary
Date: November 7th, 2022
Agenda Item: 1(i)
ORIGINATED BY: Tony Lindsey, Community Development
Director, Building & Code Enforcement
REVIEWED BY: Kevin Philips, Town Manager
SUBJECT: Camp Fire Recovery Updates – Code Enforcement
LONG-TERM
RECOVERY PLAN:
No
COUNCIL ACTION REQUESTED:
1. Code Enforcement Update
Background:
The mission of the Code Enforcement Division is to promote and maintain a safe and desirable living and working environment. We help maintain and improve the quality of our community by administering a fair and unbiased enforcement program to correct violations of municipal codes and land use requirements. We work with residents, neighborhood associations, public service agencies, and other Town departments to:
Facilitate voluntary compliance with Town codes.
Empower community self-help programs.
Develop public outreach programs.
Establish community priorities for enforcement programs.
Analysis:
Code Enforcement receives complaints of violations from staff and general community members.
Each complaint is investigated and verified by our Officers.
Total Temporary Use Permits (TUPs) issued under Urgency Ordinance 612 were 264 (39 Storage/225 Occupied). As of 10/26/2022 (Exhibit A):
Storage only – 39
225 – Authorized to be Occupied (Only 128 are currently occupied) 6-Months in advance of Ordinance 612 expiration, informational notifications were distributed by certified and first-class mail to the current owners and emailed to all applicants. Information was also delivered to each site, either hand-delivered or posted.
Notice attached. (Exhibit C)
13
RV Code Enforcement activity for the reporting period (Sept. 30th- Oct. 28 th)(Exhibit B) :
Occupied sites without TUPs – 38 (53 in Oct.)
Occupied sites with TUP Violations – 2 (2 in Oct.)
Compliance gained/RV cases closed – 8 (13 in Oct.)
o 4 RVs removed
o 4 Violations resolved (1 building permit issued)
Civil Abatement Cases have been forwarded to Town Attorney – 32. Town Attorney gained compliance on 21 cases, and 11 remain eligible for abatement.
The Community Enhancement Outreach Team, consisting of Fire Prevention, Police, Housing, Disaster Case Managers (DCMs), and Code Enforcement staff, visited 52 RV sites (44 with TUPs). The team contacted 28 community members in September:
o 8 were tenants and did not own property
o 20 owner-occupied
o 2 purchased the property post-Camp Fire
o 18 supplied contact information to DCM staff
Other Code Enforcement Items:
Abandoned Vehicle Authority abatements – 6
o Five voluntarily self abated
o One towed (1 Pickup)
Complaints regarding waste and refuse, zoning, building without a permit, camping, fire hazards, cannabis, vehicles, substandard housing, etc.
Fire Prevention is built upon the philosophy of three main objectives: Education, Engineering, and Enforcement. Fire Prevention is a vital function in the community and our continued economic development. Our defensible space and hazardous fuel management ordinance require property owners to keep their parcels fire-safe, whether they live in Town or not. The Fire Prevention staff is tasked with performing weed abatement inspections on 11,081 parcels within our community.
Beginning April 1st, 2022, the Town started requiring property title transfers to obtain a Certificate of Compliance with our Defensible Space regulations. During October:
Clearance requests received – 64 (67 in Sept.)
First inspection compliance rate – 83% (87% in Sept.) Certificates issued – 53 (58 in Sept.)
Land Surveyor’s Certifications on file – 13 (12 in Sept.) The following is the number of town-wide Defensible Space Program inspections completed as of 10/27/2022:
Compliant – 7,346 (approx. 66%)
Non-compliant – 3,256
Code Enforcement Referrals for citation – 486 Active Code Cases o 44 – Commercial parcels, 442 – Residential parcels
14 TUPs under ORD 612 5/31/22
RV TUP STORAGE ONLY RV TUP OCCUPIED 7/27/2022
15 TUPs under ORD 612
RV TUP STORAGE ONLY RV TUP OCCUPIED
TUP Violations 5/31/22
Violations w/ TUP RV no TUP 7/27/2022
16 • August 10, 2021 – Paradise Town Council extended the deadline of the Urgency Ordinance, and the RV permits, until April 30, 2023.
• January 1, 2023 – The new 2022 California Building Codes will be in effect statewide.
If you are currently having rebuild plans designed, we will be accepting building permit applications under the older 2019 California Building Codes through Friday, January 6, 2023. Submittals after that date will need to comply with the new 2022 building codes.
• April 30, 2023 – The Urgency Ordinance and temporary RV permits will expire. To continue to keep an RV on the property beyond that date, a rebuild permit for a permanent dwelling must be issued.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
RVTEMPORARY USE PERMIT - TOWN OF
PARADISE URGENCY ORDINANCE NO. 612
Wearereachingout toyoutodaybecauseapermit foratemporaryrecreationalvehicle(RV)was issued followingthe2018CampFireforyourpropertyreferencedabove.Withtheexpirationof theUrgency OrdinancescheduledforApril2023,wewantedtomakesurethateachpermitholderwasawareof the followingimportantdates:
Onthebacksideof thisnoticearerebuildingresources ifyouneedassistancetorebuild.Ifyouwouldlike tospeaktosomeoneinperson,ourBusiness&HousingDivisionstaffatTownHall(5555Skyway)are availableMonday-Thursdaytohelpexplaindifferent rebuildingprograms thatyoumaybeeligiblefor.In addition,wearecoordinatingwiththeState’sReCoverCArebuildgrantprogramtohavearepresentative availableat theBuildingResiliencyCenter (6295Skyway) tomeetwithresidents interestedintheirgrant program.
Weunderstandrecoveryafter thefireiscomplex,andweareheretoassist inanywaywecanin connectingyouwiththetoolsandresourcesyouneedtotransitiontopermanenthousing.Ifyouhave anyquestionsabout thisnotice,pleasefeelfreetoreachout toourPlanningDivisionstaffat (530)872- [email protected].
Sincerely,
SusanHartman
CommunityDevelopmentDirector,Planning&Wastewater
17 Get connected with area resources
If you are a Camp Fire survivor, connect
with a Disaster Case Manager for longterm recovery help Help Central
http://helpcentral.org/ or call 211 or text
your zip code to 898211
REBUILDING RESOURCES
Income-limits apply
Value-limits apply
Available to former renters or
homeowners
USDA Section 502 Direct Loan
https://eligibility.sc.egov.usda.gov/ or (530)
534-0112
Available to veterans
No minimum credit scores
No income limits
Available to former renters or
homeowners
CalVet
https://www.calvet.ca.gov/HomeLoans
or 866-653-2510
Down payment assistance to purchase a
standing home in Paradise
Income-limits apply
Value-limits apply
Available to former renters or
homeowners
Town of Paradise First-Time Home Buyer
Program
https://www.townofparadise.com/housing/p
age/first-time-home-buyer-program
Up to $150,000, deferred loan, for rebuilding
or repairing a home in Paradise
Income-limits apply
Value-limits apply
Available to homeowners (must have been
on title at the time of the fire)
Town of Paradise Owner-Occupied
Rehabilitation Loan
https://www.townofparadise.com/housing/pag
e/owner-occupied-housing-rehabilitation-andreconstruction Grants to reimburse costs for survey,
architecture/engineering fees, water
expenses
Grants up to $7,500 to repair or replace
septic
Income-limits apply
Available to homeowners and former renters
in Paradise
Pre-approved building plans
Rebuild Paradise Foundation
https://www.rebuildparadise.org/
Self-help rebuild program, and waiting list
for Paradise Community Village apartments
Community Housing Improvement Program
(CHIP)
https://chiphousing.org/ or call (530)891-
6931
Self-help build program, available to former
homeowners and people who were renting
Habitat For Humanity
https://www.buttehabitat.org/
(530) 332-0821 or [email protected]
18 Town of Paradise
Council Agenda Summary
Date: November 7, 2022
Agenda Item: 1(i)
ORIGINATED BY: Kate Anderson, Housing Program Manager
REVIEWED BY: Kevin Phillips, Town Manager
SUBJECT: Housing Recovery Update
LONG TERM
RECOVERY PLAN:
No
COUNCIL ACTION REQUESTED:
1. None
Background:
This report provide the Town Council with an update of Housing activities. A summary of the programs, with overall interest and change from the last month, follows.
Analysis:
We have 28.28% (+0.62) of our pre-disaster housing stock to-date (1,377 surviving units + 2,021 new CofOs to-date -- +75 from last month = 3,398 habitable dwellings / 12,015 housing units before the Camp Fire). An additional 806 permits have been issued but have not received their CofO yet.
Rebuild Advocate Program ($99,345)
Rebuild Advocates help residents overcome the challenges of rebuilding; this program moved to the Housing Dept. at Town Hall.
Town of Paradise Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation/Reconstruction Program ($21 million) This program helps homeowners rehabilitate or reconstruct their home. To-date 25 (+0) homes rebuilt, 21 (+0) under construction and 32 (-1) in the application process.
State of California/ReCoverCA: Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation/Reconstruction Program ($47 million across state)
Grants of up to $500,000 for property owners.
To-date 2 (+1) home rebuilt, 8 (+0) permits issued, 2 (+0) have been submitted for plan review, 1,231 (+0) surveys received.
Town of Paradise First-Time Homebuyer Program ($2 million) Helping to make home ownership more affordable by providing assistance toward the purchase price and closing costs of an owner-occupied, affordable housing unit. To-date 6 (+0) homes purchased and 11 (+0) applications in process. Lots of interest from local lenders and realtors.
19 Town of Paradise Septic Grant Program ($570,000)
Grants up to $17,000 to assist Camp Fire survivors to repair or replace septic systems damaged or destroyed during the Camp Fire or subsequent clean-up efforts. To-date 37 (+1), applications in process, 15 (+0) applications approved, 5 (+0) completed.
CDBG-DR Multifamily Rental Housing Program ($55 million) Goal is to create affordable rental housing
Large projects (8+ units): 1 (+1) 43-unit project approved, 4 (+1) projects under review totaling 156 units, 1 (+0) 21-unit project preparing application, 12 (+4) projects in-theworks. Over-the-counter funding cancelled to reserve funding for small project program. Small projects (1-7 units) program State should have policies and procedures by end of October.
HOME Infill New Construction ($2,700,000)
Create affordable housing for first-time homebuyers.
HCD has suspended this program and these funds.
Financial Impact:
None.
20 TOWN COUNCIL
Meeting Minutes
6:00 PM – October 11, 2022
1. OPENING
The Regular meeting of the Paradise Town Council was called to order by Mayor Crowder at 6:03 p.m. in the Town Council Chamber located at 5555 Skyway, Paradise, California.
The Boy Scouts of America Troop 16-Durham, CA led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. An Invocation was offered by Council Member Culleton.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: Greg Bolin, Steve “Woody” Culleton, Jody Jones, Rose Tryon and Steve Crowder, Mayor
COUNCIL MEMBERS ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: Town Manager Kevin Phillips, Town Attorney Scott E. Huber, Town Clerk Dina Volenski, Finance Director/Town Treasurer Ross Gilb, Public Works Director/Town Engineer Marc Mattox, Community Development Director Susan Hartman, Community Development Director Tony Lindsey, Recovery and Economic Development Director Colette Curtis, Business and Housing Manager Kate Anderson, Police Chief Eric Reinbold, Police Lieutenant Anthony Borgman, Fire Chief Patrick Purvis, Senior Supervising Code Enforcement Officer Roy Wallis, Code Enforcement Admin Cindy Crounse, and Recovery and Economic Development Project Manager Brian Solecki. 1a. Charles Anderson from the League of California Cities presented the Helen Putnam Award to the Town Council.
1b. Mayor Crowder presented a proclamation to the Town’s Code Enforcement division recognizing the 2
nd week of October as Code Enforcement Officer
Appreciation Week. (180-40-027)
1c. Elizabeth Brewster presented on the Paradise Little League. 1d. Jim McCourt from Meeder Investments provided a financial update. 1e. Camp Fire Recovery Updates - Written reports are included in the agenda packet. (110-60-061)
Colette Curtis, Recovery and Economic Development Director - Recovery projects, Advocacy, Economic Recovery and Development,
Communications and Emergency Operations.
Marc Mattox, Public Works Director/Town Engineer - Infrastructure and Sewer Update
21 Public Works Director/Town Engineer Marc Mattox answered questions regarding the repaving projects in Town.
Tony Lindsey, CDD-Building and Code Enforcement - Code Enforcement Update
Kate Anderson, Business and Housing Manager - Business and Housing Update
2. CONSENT CALENDAR
MOTION by Bolin, seconded by Tryon, approved consent calendar items 2a through 2k. Roll call vote was unanimous.
2a. Approved minutes of the September 13, 2022 Regular Council meeting and September 15, 2022 Special Council meeting.
2b. Approved September 2022 Cash Disbursements in the amount of $3,904,576.57. (310-10-034)
2c. Authorized the Town Manager to execute an agreement with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) for acceptance of the USDA 2022 Volunteer Fire Capacity Grant award to purchase new structural and wildland personal protective equipment (PPE) and adopted Resolution 2022-70. (510-20-362, 440-91-001)
2d. Authorized the Town Council to sign a letter of endorsement for Paradise Little League to move forward with applying for grants and other available funding options. (180-30-100)
2e. 1. Authorized the Town Manager to enter into a contract with Aviat Networks, Incorporated, for the installation of an extension of Butte County’s BRICS radio network to the Town of Paradise radio networks, and related equipment; and, 2. Approved staff recommended budget adjustments. (510-20-359, 340-40-016)
2f. 1. Declared furniture from the Community Development Department as surplus property; and, 2. Adopted Resolution No. 2022-71, “A Resolution of the Town Council of the Town of Paradise Declaring Certain Town property to be Surplus and Authorizing Disposal Thereof”. (380-10-003) 2g. Authorized the Town Manager to execute an agreement for professional services with Management Partners for a not-to-exceed amount of $35,000. (510-20-288)
2h. Authorized the Town Manager to enter into a contract with Tashjian Towers Corporation, for an engineering evaluation and report on the capacity of the Bloomer Hill Tower to accept the installation of required microwave equipment. (510-20-360)
22 2i. Authorized the Town Manager to enter into a contract with Sutter Buttes Communications, for the removal, cleanup and reconfiguration of existing Dispatch radio equipment to be carried over into new Dispatch radio system; and, approved staff recommended budget adjustments. (510-20-344, 340-40-016)
2j. 1. Concurred with the recommended approvals provided by Exceptions Committee Members Culleton and Jones; and, 2. Authorized staff to accept and process a Temporary Use Permit application from applicant, Kimberly Omiela. (540-10-021)
2k. Accepted the $5,000.00 California for All Animals Welcome Grant awarded to the Town of Paradise Animal Control/Shelter. (410-10-008)
3. ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR - None
4. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION
1. Town Clerk Dina Volenski read a comment, summitted via email, from Ward Habriel thanking Council for the efforts to get the green waste facility reopened.
2. Rich Gowins announced that a Vote Center will be open in Paradise from October 29 through November 8 and thanked staff and Council for their continued efforts on private roads in Paradise and stopping unnecessary road work in his neighborhood and the identification of evacuation routes.
5. PUBLIC HEARINGS - None
6. COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
6a. Barry Long from Urban Design Associates presented the Long-Term Recovery Plan Update and requested comments from the Town Council to be included in the update.
Council Member Jones stated that the Town Council did not determine that a new Civic Center should be retired from the document, and requested it remain on the list but be moved to a lower-level priority. Town Manager Phillips suggested that the item be moved into the superseded facility project. (420-25-010)
6b. Community Development Director Tony Lindsey presented on the recommended changes to the 2022 Building Code Standards. If the Town does not make any changes, then the Standards recommended by the State would become effective on January 1, 2023.
Mr. Lindsey explained that carports are exempted, Electrical charging stations are included and the language regarding grading permits has been cleaned up.
MOTION by Bolin, seconded by Culleton, 1. Waived the first reading of Town Ordinance No. 622 and read by title only; and, 2. Introduced Town Ordinance No. 622, " An Ordinance of the Town of Paradise Repealing 23 Paradise Municipal Code Chapters 15.01, 15.02, 15.03, 15.04, 15.05,
15.06, 15.07, 15.08, 15.09, 15.10, 15.11, 15.12, 15.13 and Adopting New Chapters 15.01, 15.02, 15.03, 15.04, 15.05, 15.06, 15.07, 15.08, 15.09,
15.10, 15.11, 15.12, 15.13, 15.14, and 15.15 and Making Findings of Facts Relating to Local Climatic, Geological, and Topographic Conditions, All Relating to the Amendments and Adoption of the 2022 California Building Standards Code." Roll call vote was unanimous. If approved at the November 7, 2022 meeting, the building code standards will go into effect January 1, 2023. (540-16-191)
6c. Public Works Director/Town Engineer Marc Mattox provided an update on the analysis to re-open Honey Run Road which has been closed since the Camp Fire in November 2018 due to Hazardous Tree Removal, Narrow Roadway sections and limited access.
Council discussed the potential liability issues associated with the road if no changes or updates were made to the road.
Attorney Scott E. Huber stated that there is no vehicle code for a Town regarding unimproved conditions of a road, but the Town may be able to limit liability with signage or ask the County to also designate the road a Historical Community Route.
1. Jon Remalia suggested Honey Run be used as a fire access and could promote access to Covered Bridge as tourist attraction.
2. Cynthia Binyon, resident of Honey Run Road, asked about access to the road and maintenance from the Town of Paradise
3. Kurt Klackle, resident of Honey Run Road, stated that Honey Run is not closed, people are still traveling too fast and it is a dangerous road, not in favor of closing the road.
4. Ray Varlinsky, resident of Honey Run Road, stated that Honey Run Road is used as an alternative to Skyway making it a dangerous road and suggested closing the road after Honey Run Terrace.
Attorney Scott E. Huber shared that Gov’t Code 57329 has nothing stating that an unimproved county road needs to be brought up to standards.
MOTION by Jones, seconded by Bolin, to approve staff recommendation to continue forward with permitting the 2023 Wildflower with safety precautions and providing that Butte County adopt the entire corridor between Merlin Lane and Honey View Terrace as a Historical Community Route and the proposed paving project provide robust signage advising people about the limitation of the road and that they are proceeding at their own risk. Roll call vote was unanimous. (950-40-063)
6d. MOTION by Jones, seconded by Bolin, to award Contract No. 9417.CON, 2022 CDBG Sidewalk Infill Project to All American Construction, Inc. of Live Oak, CA in the amount of their base bid, $456,862.00; and, 2. Authorized the Town Manager to execute an agreement with All American 24 Construction, Inc. relating to Contract No. 9417.CON and approved contingency expenditures not exceeding 25%. Roll call vote was unanimous. (510-20-361, 950-40-068)
6e. MOTION by Bolin, seconded by Tryon, adopted Resolution No. 2022-72, “A Resolution of the Town Council of the Town of Paradise Authorizing and Approving Execution of a Grant Agreement to Receive an Allocation of Funding from the 2018 CDBG-DR Infrastructure Program and any Forthcoming Amendments, Thereto.” Roll call vote was unanimous. (710-10-099)
6f. Public Works Director/Town Engineer Mattox provided an overview of the facilities conditions and building losses from the Camp Fire. Mr. Mattox requested the money for the proposed improvements for Town Hall, Paradise Police Department and Fire Station 81 come from unallocated ARPA funding.
MOTION by Bolin, seconded by Culleton, approved requested budget adjustments for various repairs and improvements for Town Hall, Paradise Police Department and Fire Station 81. Roll call vote was unanimous. (280-05-006, 280-50-001, 280-60-005)
6g. Town Clerk Volenski read a comment from Ward Habriel stating the repair/replacement of the culvert under Stearns at Dry Creek; wow: really great action, decisions and results! Marc and staff, mega kudos to you all.
MOTION by Bolin, seconded by Jones, adopted Resolution No. 2022-73, “A Resolution of the Town Council of the Town of Paradise accepting Contract No. 9418.CON, Stearns Rd Dry Creek Culvert Emergency Repairs, performed by Visinoni Brothers, Inc.” Roll call vote was unanimous. (950-40-067, 510-20-348)
6h. Recovery and Economic Development Director Colette Curtis provided an overview of the requested additional funding for the Category 4 Arborist Services which is being asked to be funded from unallocated ARPA funds.
MOTION by Tryon, seconded by Culleton 1. Approved Amendment to Agreement between the Town of Paradise and P31, increasing the Not to Exceed amount for Category 4 Arborist Services; and, 2. Authorized the Town Manager to sign the agreement. Roll call vote was unanimous. (510-20-345)
7. COUNCIL INITIATED ITEMS AND REPORTS
7a. Council initiated agenda items - None
7b. Council reports on committee representation
Council Member Culleton attended a Solid Waste meeting and announced that the Green Waste Yard is now open on Friday and Saturdays and hopefully the Buy Back Center and Household Hazardous Waste will be open at the first of the year. 25 Council Member Tryon has been attending NRWS meetings the last six months working out the agreement for the green waste yard and shared that hopefully the Household Hazardous Waste and Recycling will be open the first of the year and attended Butte County Fire Safe Council check in and met regarding the Tier 4 trees.
Mayor Crowder staffed the Town booth at Johnny Appleseed Days, attended the swear in of a new officer and presented at the California Real Estate Appraiser Convention at South Lake Tahoe.
7c. Future Agenda Items
Council Member Culleton requested future discussion to form an Arts Commission to create Paradise as a destination for public art.
8. STAFF COMMUNICATION
8a. Town Manager Report
Town Manager Phillips appreciates the Town Councils support, attended Community Resiliency Collaboration and will be merging with the Park and Recreation to focus on bringing funding back for the buffer zone around Town and an alternative thought is how to bring the flumes back into working order; Officer Cooper is the newest addition to the Police Department; and six staff attended ICS 400 training.
9. CLOSED SESSION - None
10. ADJOURNMENT
10a. Mayor Crowder adjourned the meeting at 9:35 p.m. and announced that the Town Council will adjourn to November 7, 2022 at 6:00 p.m., Paradise Town Hall, 5555 Skyway, Paradise, CA 95969 for the purpose of holding a Regular Adjourned meeting pursuant to Government Code Section 54955.
Date approved:
By: Attest:
________________________ _________________________
Steve Crowder, Mayor Dina Volenski, CMC, Town Clerk
26 TOWN OF PARADISE
CASH DISBURSEMENTS REPORT
FOR THE PERIOD OF
October 1, 2022 - October 31, 2022
27 CASH DISBURSEMENTS REPORT
October 1, 2022 - October 31, 2022
Check Date Pay Period End Description Amount Total
10/14/2022 10/9/2022 Net Payroll - Direct Deposits and Checks $ 202,301.39 10/28/2022 10/23/2022 Net Payroll - Direct Deposits and Checks 196,301.17 $ 398,602.56
Accounts Payable
Payroll Vendors: Taxes, PERS, Dues, Insurance, Etc. 356,755.05 Operations Vendors: Supplies, Contracts, Utilities, Etc. $ 3,830,402.13 TOTAL CASH DISBURSEMENTS ACCOUNTS PAYABLE 4,187,157.18
GRAND TOTAL CASH DISBURSEMENTS $ 4,585,759.74
APPROVED BY:
Kevin Phillips, Town Manager
APPROVED BY:
Ross Gilb, Finance Director / Town Treasurer
28 Number Date Status Void Reason
Reconciled/
Voided Date
Transaction
Amount
Reconciled
Amount Difference
81647 10/03/2022 Open $781.25
81648 10/03/2022 Open $1,073.32
81649 10/03/2022 Open $166.50
81650 10/06/2022 Open $63,205.00
81651 10/06/2022 Open $101.41
81652 10/06/2022 Open $110.56
81653 10/06/2022 Open $186.54
81654 10/06/2022 Open $89.46
81655 10/06/2022 Open $211.65
81656 10/06/2022 Open $23.20
81657 10/06/2022 Open $2,242.57
81658 10/06/2022 Open $1,136.08
81659 10/06/2022 Open $59.20
81660 10/06/2022 Open $1,650.00
81661 10/06/2022 Open $175.00
81662 10/06/2022 Open $175.00
81663 10/06/2022 Open $175.00
81664 10/06/2022 Open $399.90
81665 10/06/2022 Open $1,326.70
81666 10/06/2022 Open $6,844.71
81667 10/06/2022 Open $4,000.00
81668 10/06/2022 Open $334.00
81669 10/06/2022 Open $40.00
81670 10/06/2022 Open $1,343.70
81671 10/06/2022 Open $4,548.21
81672 10/06/2022 Open $4,320.00
81673 10/06/2022 Open $1,040.00
81674 10/06/2022 Open $401.40
81675 10/06/2022 Open $411.40
81676 10/06/2022 Open $134.05
81677 10/06/2022 Open $285.99
81678 10/06/2022 Open $62.48
81679 10/06/2022 Open $18,970.49
81680 10/06/2022 Open $1,942.64
81681 10/06/2022 Open $6,799.14
81682 10/06/2022 Open $103.68
81683 10/06/2022 Open $135.00
81684 10/06/2022 Open $19,975.00
81685 10/06/2022 Open $598.00
81686 10/06/2022 Open $145.47
81687 10/06/2022 Open $350.00
81688 10/06/2022 Open $361.74
81689 10/06/2022 Open $30,000.00
81690 10/06/2022 Open $10,000.00
81691 10/06/2022 Open $12,500.00
81692 10/06/2022 Open $30,466.29
81693 10/06/2022 Open $403.54
Accounts Payable AT&T
AP - US Bank TOP AP Checking
Check
Accounts Payable De Lage Landen Public Finance LLC
Accounts Payable ENTERPRISE FM TRUST
Accounts Payable AT&T/CALNET3 - REPEATER LINES
TOWN OF PARADISE
Payment Register
From Payment Date: 10/1/2022 - To Payment Date: 10/31/2022 Source Payee Name
Accounts Payable SBA Monarch Towers III LLC
Accounts Payable 4LEAF, Inc
AT&T/CALNET3 - COMMUNITY PARK
Accounts Payable AT&T/CALNET3 - Summary
Accounts Payable AT&T & CALNET3 - CIRCUIT LINES
Accounts Payable AT&T MOBILITY
Accounts Payable AT&T MOBILITY
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable BIDWELL TITLE & ESCROW
Accounts Payable BIDWELL TITLE & ESCROW
Accounts Payable AT&T/CALNET3 - TH/FDPD FIBER LINES
Accounts Payable Batteries Plus Bulbs
Accounts Payable Bear Electrical Systems, Inc
Accounts Payable Broad & Gusman
Accounts Payable BUTTE CO RECORDER
Accounts Payable BUTTE REGIONAL TRANSIT
Accounts Payable Big O Tires
Accounts Payable Blaise, Parry
Accounts Payable Blue Flamingo Marketing Advocates
Accounts Payable CivicPlus, LLC
Accounts Payable COMCAST CABLE
Accounts Payable COMCAST CABLE
Accounts Payable CALIFORNIA BUILDING STANDARDS COMMISSION Accounts Payable CALIFORNIA STATE DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION Accounts Payable CDX Wireless Inc
Accounts Payable Dokken Engineering, Inc.
Accounts Payable Dokken Engineering, Inc.
Accounts Payable Dokken Engineering, Inc.
Accounts Payable Cooper, Andrew
Accounts Payable Creative Composition Inc
Accounts Payable Deja Vu Gardens Galore Nursery
Accounts Payable GOVERNOR'S OFFICE OF EMERGENCY SERVICES Accounts Payable GREAT AMERICA LEASING CORP.
Accounts Payable Gregory Cundiff
Accounts Payable DURHAM PENTZ TRUCK CENTER
Accounts Payable FP/FRANCOTYP-POSTALIA MAILING SOLUTIONS Accounts Payable Gates + Associates
Accounts Payable Hope Crisis Response Network, Inc
Accounts Payable I.M.P.A.C. PAYMENTS IMPAC GOV SVCS/US BANCORP Accounts Payable INTERSTATE OIL COMPANY
Accounts Payable Hollingsworth, Owen
Accounts Payable Hope Crisis Response Network, Inc
Accounts Payable Hope Crisis Response Network, Inc
Accounts Payable BIDWELL TITLE & ESCROW
29 Number Date Status Void Reason
Reconciled/
Voided Date
Transaction
Amount
Reconciled
Amount Difference
AP - US Bank TOP AP Checking
Check
TOWN OF PARADISE
Payment Register
From Payment Date: 10/1/2022 - To Payment Date: 10/31/2022 Source Payee Name
81694 10/06/2022 Open $914.88
81695 10/06/2022 Open $6,300.00
81696 10/06/2022 Open $3,161.00
81697 10/06/2022 Open $229.67
81698 10/06/2022 Open $65,171.95
81699 10/06/2022 Open $670.74
81700 10/06/2022 Open $1,944,680.83
81701 10/06/2022 Open $1,522.99
81702 10/06/2022 Open $384.34
81703 10/06/2022 Open $3,354.92
81704 10/06/2022 Open $8,737.45
81705 10/06/2022 Open $1,468.26
81706 10/06/2022 Open $582.00
81707 10/06/2022 Open $600.00
81708 10/06/2022 Open $40,000.00
81709 10/06/2022 Open $2,040.00
81710 10/06/2022 Open $508.00
81711 10/06/2022 Open $529.00
81712 10/06/2022 Open $475.93
81713 10/06/2022 Open $160,000.00
81714 10/06/2022 Open $412.91
81715 10/06/2022 Open $1,049.28
81716 10/06/2022 Open $1,680.68
81717 10/06/2022 Open $491.63
81718 10/06/2022 Open $5,590.17
81719 10/06/2022 Open $9,536.08
81720 10/06/2022 Open $94.00
81721 10/06/2022 Open $358.83
81722 10/06/2022 Open $3,376.53
81723 10/06/2022 Open $1,280.63
81724 10/06/2022 Open $3,841.77
81725 10/06/2022 Open $1,234.06
81726 10/06/2022 Open $51,803.99
81727 10/06/2022 Open $817.04
81728 10/06/2022 Open $2,592.40
81729 10/06/2022 Open $369.43
81730 10/06/2022 Open $292.28
81731 10/06/2022 Open $445.46
81732 10/06/2022 Open $3,666.28
81733 10/06/2022 Open $602.28
81734 10/06/2022 Open $24,827.52
81735 10/06/2022 Open $883.88
81736 10/06/2022 Open $4,434.54
81737 10/06/2022 Open $10,440.00
81738 10/06/2022 Open $770.00
81739 10/06/2022 Open $1,098.13
81740 10/06/2022 Open $219.29
Accounts Payable KEN'S HITCH & WELDING
Accounts Payable KNIFE RIVER CONSTRUCTION
Accounts Payable KNIFE RIVER CONSTRUCTION
Accounts Payable J.J.R. Enterprises Inc
Accounts Payable Jennifer Arbuckle
Accounts Payable JOHNNY ON THE SPOT PORTABLES
Accounts Payable Mark Thomas & Company Inc
Accounts Payable Mark Thomas & Company Inc
Accounts Payable Martin, Marie
Accounts Payable KNIFE RIVER CONSTRUCTION
Accounts Payable L.N. CURTIS & SONS
Accounts Payable Look Ahead Veterinary Services
Accounts Payable Meyers Police K-9 Training, LLC
Accounts Payable MID VALLEY TITLE & ESCROW
Accounts Payable MID VALLEY TITLE & ESCROW
Accounts Payable Mennonite Disaster Service
Accounts Payable Mennonite Disaster Service
Accounts Payable Mennonite Disaster Service
Accounts Payable Norris, Melanie
Accounts Payable North State Tire Co. Inc.
Accounts Payable Northern California Glove & Safety
Accounts Payable MOBILE MINI INC
Accounts Payable MOTOROLA
Accounts Payable Mt Shasta Spring Water Co., Inc
Accounts Payable NV5, Inc.
Accounts Payable NV5, Inc.
Accounts Payable O'REILLY AUTO PARTS
Accounts Payable NORTHERN RECYCLING & WASTE SERVICES, INC.
Accounts Payable NORTHGATE PETROLEUM CO
Accounts Payable NORTHSTAR
Accounts Payable PACIFIC GAS & ELECTRIC
Accounts Payable PARADISE IRRIGATION DIST
Accounts Payable PARADISE POST
Accounts Payable Oak Ridge Enterprise
Accounts Payable OFFICE DEPOT ACCT#36233169
Accounts Payable P31 Enterprises, Inc.
Accounts Payable Psomas
Accounts Payable Psomas
Accounts Payable Psomas
Accounts Payable PLATT ELECTRIC SUPPLY
Accounts Payable Psomas
Accounts Payable Psomas
Accounts Payable RE CONSTRUCTION
Accounts Payable RENTAL GUYS - CHICO
Accounts Payable Riebes Auto Parts- Motorpool
Accounts Payable Psomas
Accounts Payable RE CONSTRUCTION
30 Number Date Status Void Reason
Reconciled/
Voided Date
Transaction
Amount
Reconciled
Amount Difference
AP - US Bank TOP AP Checking
Check
TOWN OF PARADISE
Payment Register
From Payment Date: 10/1/2022 - To Payment Date: 10/31/2022 Source Payee Name
81741 10/06/2022 Open $1,422.00
81742 10/06/2022 Open $1,088.50
81743 10/06/2022 Open $4,647.65
81744 10/06/2022 Open $26,600.00
81745 10/06/2022 Open $1,289.81
81746 10/06/2022 Open $159.23
81747 10/06/2022 Open $5,000.00
81761 10/06/2022 Open $595.01
81762 10/06/2022 Open $208.75
81763 10/06/2022 Open $106.58
81764 10/06/2022 Open $14.80
81765 10/06/2022 Open $111.69
81766 10/06/2022 Open $2,049.73
81767 10/06/2022 Open $2,722.50
81768 10/06/2022 Open $79.73
81769 10/06/2022 Open $159,407.67
81770 10/06/2022 Open $81.49
81771 10/06/2022 Open $190.14
81772 10/06/2022 Open $5,287.90
81773 10/06/2022 Open $5,988.66
81774 10/11/2022 Open $57.98
81775 10/11/2022 Open $10,320.27
81776 10/11/2022 Open $1,003.00
81777 10/11/2022 Open $1,928.51
81778 10/11/2022 Open $6,440.69
81779 10/11/2022 Open $800.57
81780 10/11/2022 Open $120.00
81781 10/18/2022 Open $1,000.00
81782 10/18/2022 Open $194.76
81783 10/20/2022 Open $90.21
81784 10/20/2022 Open $13.46
81785 10/20/2022 Open $1,550.72
81786 10/20/2022 Open $858.06
81787 10/20/2022 Open $69.55
81788 10/20/2022 Open $186.54
81789 10/20/2022 Open $10,861.20
81790 10/20/2022 Open $14,451.73
81791 10/20/2022 Open $60.00
81792 10/20/2022 Open $33.00
81793 10/20/2022 Open $3,091.94
81794 10/20/2022 Open $83.00
81795 10/20/2022 Open $20,000.00
81796 10/20/2022 Open $391.40
81797 10/20/2022 Open $416.40
81798 10/20/2022 Open $143.40
81799 10/20/2022 Open $400.00
81800 10/20/2022 Open $1,200.00
Accounts Payable T & L Construction
Accounts Payable T MOBILE USA, INC.
Accounts Payable Tahoe Pure Water Co.
Accounts Payable Scotts PPE Recon Inc.
Accounts Payable SONSRAY MACHINERY LLC
Accounts Payable Spherion Staffing
Accounts Payable THOMAS ACE HARDWARE - FIRE DEPT.
Accounts Payable THOMAS ACE HARDWARE - MOTORPOOL
Accounts Payable THOMAS ACE HARDWARE - POLICE DEPT.
Accounts Payable The Ferguson Group
Accounts Payable THOMAS ACE HARDWARE - ENG. DEPT.
Accounts Payable VALLEY OAK VETERINARY CENTER
Accounts Payable Visinoni Brothers Construction
Accounts Payable Westlake Ace Hardware
Accounts Payable Tri Flame Propane
Accounts Payable UNITED RENTALS, INC.
Accounts Payable Urban Planning Partners Inc
Accounts Payable Aflac
Accounts Payable Met Life
Accounts Payable OPERATING ENGINEERS
Accounts Payable WITTMEIER AUTO CENTER
Accounts Payable Wood Rodgers, Inc.
Accounts Payable Wood Rodgers, Inc.
Accounts Payable TOP CONFIDENTIAL MID MGMT ASSOCIATION
Accounts Payable ICMA 457 - VANTAGEPOINT
Accounts Payable STATE DISBURSEMENT UNIT
Accounts Payable PARADISE POLICE OFFICERS ASSOCIATION
Accounts Payable SUN LIFE INSURANCE
Accounts Payable SUPERIOR VISION SVC NGLIC
Accounts Payable AT&T & CALNET3 - CIRCUIT LINES
Accounts Payable AT&T MOBILITY
Accounts Payable AT&T MOBILITY
Accounts Payable ACCESS INFORMATION PROTECTED
Accounts Payable ADVANCED DOCUMENT CONCEPTS
Accounts Payable AIRGAS SAFETY, INC.
Accounts Payable Biometrics4ALL, Inc
Accounts Payable Blue Flamingo Marketing Advocates
Accounts Payable Axon Enterprise Inc
Accounts Payable Bear Electrical Systems, Inc
Accounts Payable Big O Tires
Accounts Payable COMCAST CABLE
Accounts Payable COMCAST CABLE
Accounts Payable Cordico Psychological Corporation
Accounts Payable Bug Smart
Accounts Payable Butte County Construction Inc
Accounts Payable COMCAST CABLE
Accounts Payable COUNTY OF BUTTE
31 Number Date Status Void Reason
Reconciled/
Voided Date
Transaction
Amount
Reconciled
Amount Difference
AP - US Bank TOP AP Checking
Check
TOWN OF PARADISE
Payment Register
From Payment Date: 10/1/2022 - To Payment Date: 10/31/2022 Source Payee Name
81801 10/20/2022 Open $42.90
81802 10/20/2022 Open $15.00
81803 10/20/2022 Open $288.83
81804 10/20/2022 Open $315.00
81805 10/20/2022 Open $68,000.00
81806 10/20/2022 Open $60,000.00
81807 10/20/2022 Open $37,291.95
81808 10/20/2022 Open $2,046.98
81809 10/20/2022 Open $1,393.27
81810 10/20/2022 Open $5,951.89
81811 10/20/2022 Open $25.52
81812 10/20/2022 Open $400.00
81813 10/20/2022 Open $129.31
81814 10/20/2022 Open $5,404.16
81815 10/20/2022 Open $17.90
81816 10/20/2022 Open $425.50
81817 10/20/2022 Open $9,677.05
81818 10/20/2022 Open $2,607.55
81819 10/20/2022 Open $125.00
81820 10/20/2022 Open $590.80
81821 10/20/2022 Open $1,200.00
81822 10/20/2022 Open $30.00
81823 10/20/2022 Open $4,213.44
81824 10/20/2022 Open $320.79
81825 10/20/2022 Open $67.00
81826 10/20/2022 Open $601.04
81827 10/20/2022 Open $217.50
81828 10/20/2022 Open $36,390.84
81829 10/20/2022 Open $26,491.00
81830 10/20/2022 Open $10.00
81831 10/20/2022 Open $11,322.19
81832 10/20/2022 Open $32,600.57
81833 10/20/2022 Open $277,230.18
81834 10/20/2022 Open $209,190.53
81835 10/20/2022 Open $1,909.38
81836 10/20/2022 Open $122.74
81837 10/20/2022 Open $63,211.75
81838 10/20/2022 Open $1,808.00
81839 10/20/2022 Open $12,878.91
81840 10/20/2022 Open $40.87
81841 10/20/2022 Open $434.32
81842 10/20/2022 Open $1,560.00
81843 10/20/2022 Open $94.73
81844 10/20/2022 Open $14,024.50
81845 10/20/2022 Open $15.00
81846 10/20/2022 Open $96.27
81847 10/20/2022 Open $180.00
Accounts Payable MOTOROLA
PACIFIC GAS & ELECTRIC
Accounts Payable Pientak, Christina
Accounts Payable RoyalAire
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable MOTOROLA
Accounts Payable MOTOROLA
Accounts Payable MOTOROLA
Shelby's Pest Control, Inc.
OFFICE DEPOT ACCT#36233169
Accounts Payable MOTOROLA
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable Crowder, Steven
Accounts Payable DATCO SERVICES CORPORATION
Accounts Payable Design Path Studio
Accounts Payable Creative Composition Inc
Accounts Payable Critchfield, Pamela
Accounts Payable Eagle Security Systems
Accounts Payable ESPLANADE OFFICE
Accounts Payable FEDERAL EXPRESS
Accounts Payable Dirt to Doorknobs
Accounts Payable Dokken Engineering, Inc.
Accounts Payable DURHAM PENTZ TRUCK CENTER
Accounts Payable HireRight, Inc.
Accounts Payable Huggins, Jeannette
Accounts Payable I.M.P.A.C. PAYMENTS IMPAC GOV SVCS/US BANCORP Accounts Payable Granicher Appraisals, Inc
Accounts Payable GREAT AMERICA LEASING CORP.
Accounts Payable GREEN RIDGE LANDSCAPING
Accounts Payable KOEFRAN INDUSTRIES
Accounts Payable Kovacs, Cameron
Accounts Payable KP Research Services, Inc.
Accounts Payable INTERSTATE SALES
Accounts Payable James or Lavenia Riotto
Accounts Payable JOHNNY ON THE SPOT PORTABLES
Accounts Payable MID VALLEY TITLE & ESCROW
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable MID VALLEY TITLE & ESCROW
Accounts Payable LIFE ASSIST INC
Accounts Payable LOCATE PLUS CORPORATION
Accounts Payable Look Ahead Veterinary Services
Lui, Andrea
Accounts Payable Mark Thomas & Company Inc
MOTOROLA
NCCSIF TREASURER
Accounts Payable
Oroville Tow & Salvage
P31 Enterprises, Inc.
NORTHSTAR
Accounts Payable NV5, Inc.
Accounts Payable O'REILLY AUTO PARTS
Accounts Payable
32 Number Date Status Void Reason
Reconciled/
Voided Date
Transaction
Amount
Reconciled
Amount Difference
AP - US Bank TOP AP Checking
Check
TOWN OF PARADISE
Payment Register
From Payment Date: 10/1/2022 - To Payment Date: 10/31/2022 Source Payee Name
81848 10/20/2022 Open $50.00
81849 10/20/2022 Open $15.00
81850 10/20/2022 Open $3,404.51
81851 10/20/2022 Open $9,460.64
81852 10/20/2022 Open $6,753.77
81853 10/20/2022 Open $897.50
81854 10/20/2022 Open $10,000.00
81855 10/20/2022 Open $129.19
81856 10/20/2022 Open $186.08
81857 10/20/2022 Open $24.37
81858 10/20/2022 Open $31.33
81859 10/20/2022 Open $59.23
81860 10/20/2022 Open $675.00
81861 10/20/2022 Open $90.00
81862 10/20/2022 Open $14,022.75
81863 10/20/2022 Open $983.71
81864 10/20/2022 Open $287.96
81865 10/20/2022 Open $344.89
81866 10/20/2022 Open $246.00
81867 10/20/2022 Open $5,610.00
81868 10/20/2022 Open $265.48
81869 10/20/2022 Open $896.67
81870 10/20/2022 Open $10,659.12
81871 10/27/2022 Open $1,000.00
81872 10/27/2022 Open $194.76
$3,853,462.67
1350 10/06/2022 Open $125,291.12
1351 10/13/2022 Open $11,222.52
1352 10/13/2022 Open $38,052.75
1353 10/18/2022 Open $49,067.57
1354 10/18/2022 Open $7,460.00
1355 10/11/2022 Open $161.00
1356 10/27/2022 Open $49,525.76
1357 10/27/2022 Open $10,164.04
1358 10/27/2022 Open $7,460.00
1359 10/27/2022 Open $35,289.75
$333,694.51
Checks Status Count
Open 213
Reconciled 0
Voided 0
Stopped 0
Total 213
Type EFT Totals:
AP - US Bank TOP AP Checking Totals
Transaction Amount Reconciled Amount
$3,853,462.67 $0.00
VERIZON WIRELESS
Accounts Payable VERIZON WIRELESS
ING LIFE INS & ANNUITY COMPANY
STATE BOARD OF EQUALIZATION
CALPERS - RETIREMENT
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable
VERIZON WIRELESS
Accounts Payable Wallis, Roy
Accounts Payable
ICMA 457 - VANTAGEPOINT
Accounts Payable STATE DISBURSEMENT UNIT
EFT
THOMAS ACE HARDWARE - MOTORPOOL
TRUEPOINT SOLUTIONS, LLC
THOMAS ACE HARDWARE - POLICE DEPT.
Accounts Payable THOMAS HYDRAULIC & HARDWARE SUPPLY, INC.
T and S DVBE Inc.
The Ferguson Group
Snow, Ashley
THOMAS ACE HARDWARE - ENG. DEPT.
THOMAS ACE HARDWARE - FIRE DEPT.
Spherion Staffing
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable Tetra Tech - EMI
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable
Stratti
Accounts Payable Sigler Pest Control
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable EMPLOYMENT DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable
10 Transactions
White Glove Cleaning Svc Inc, Theresa Contreras
Accounts Payable Wood Rodgers, Inc.
Accounts Payable Wood Rodgers, Inc.
Accounts Payable
213 Transactions
EMPLOYMENT DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE
Wood Rodgers, Inc.
Accounts Payable
ING LIFE INS & ANNUITY COMPANY
INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE
CALPERS - RETIREMENT
Accounts Payable CALPERS
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable
Type Check Totals:
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$3,853,462.67
$0.00
TUCKER PEST CONTROL INC
Accounts Payable Urban Design Associates. LTD
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable
33 Number Date Status Void Reason
Reconciled/
Voided Date
Transaction
Amount
Reconciled
Amount Difference
AP - US Bank TOP AP Checking
Check
TOWN OF PARADISE
Payment Register
From Payment Date: 10/1/2022 - To Payment Date: 10/31/2022 Source Payee Name
EFTs Status Count
Open 10
Reconciled 0
Voided 0
Total 10
All Status Count
Open 223
Reconciled 0
Voided 0
Stopped 0
Total 223 $4,187,157.18
$333,694.51 $0.00
$4,187,157.18 $0.00
Transaction Amount Reconciled Amount
$0.00 $0.00
$0.00 $0.00
$0.00 $0.00
$0.00
$333,694.51 $0.00
Transaction Amount Reconciled Amount
$0.00 $0.00
$0.00 $0.00
34 Town of Paradise
Council Agenda Summary
Date: November 7, 2022
Agenda Item: 2(c)
ORIGINATED BY: Jessica Erdahl, Senior Capital Projects Manager REVIEWED BY: Kevin Phillips, Town Manager
SUBJECT: On-System Hardscape Replacement Project
Acceptance
LONG TERM
RECOVERY PLAN:
Yes, Tiers 1, Evacuation Routes
COUNCIL ACTION REQUESTED:
1. Adopt Resolution No. 2022-__, a Resolution of the Town Council of the Town of Paradise accepting Contract No. 7302.CON, On-System Hardscape Replacement Project, performed by Franklin Construction, Inc., Chico, CA.
Background:
As a result of the 2018 Camp Fire and on-going heavy fire debris removal, 30 hardscape locations were identified that sustained damage. The locations included damaged concrete curb, gutter and sidewalk, lighting, planters and amenities town wide.
The Town coordinated with Caltrans and Federal Highways Administration (FHWA) to secure Emergency Relief (ER) permanent restoration funding to repair the damaged infrastructure town wide. Through the Emergency Relief Program, the Town of Paradise has been approved for $866,900.00 for the on-system hardscape replacement project. The approved project is located on Federal-Aid “On-System” roads – meaning the Town’s primary collectors and arterials such as Skyway, Clark, Pearson, Elliott, Bille, Wagstaff, Pentz, etc.
On December 11, 2018, Paradise Town Council awarded a contract to Mark Thomas to perform engineering services on disaster related projects. Subsequently, in July 2020, a task order was issued to perform civil design services on the hardscape replacement project.
On October 12, 2021 Paradise Town Council adopted a resolution approving the Plans & Specifications for the On-System hardscape replacement project. Council further directed staff to advertise for bids.
On January 11, 2022 Paradise Town Council awarded contract No 7302.CON On-System Hardscape Replacement Project to Franklin Construction, inc. the amount of their base bid $456,756.00 and approved contingency expenditures not exceeding 10%.
Analysis:
Construction efforts began on March 14, 2022 and continued through September 7, 2022. Work was mutually suspended during the months of July-August 2022 due to material procurement lead times.
35 Financial Impact:
The total estimated construction cost of the Skyway and Pearson Road Traffic Signal Repair Project, including a 10% contingency, was $502,431.00. The actual total construction cost is $621,370.48. Actual construction expenditures exceeded the 10% contingency due to additional damage caused by the Camp Fire not previously included in the contract quantities. Franklin Construction, Inc. bid was below available construction funding, therefore ER funds are available to cover these additional costs.
Project expenditures and a funding summary is detailed below:
Contract Items
Participating
Reimb. Ratio Total Cost ER Local Match
88.53% $ 621,370.48 $ 550,099.29 $ 71,271.19
88.53% $ 117,040.72 $ 103,616.15 $ 13,424.57
Total $ 738,411.20 $ 653,715.44 $ 84,695.76
$ 797,400.00 $ 705,938.22 $ 91,461.78
Balance $ 58,988.80 $ 52,222.78 $ 6,766.02
Construction Contract - Actuals
Construction Management - Estimated
Available Funding CON/CE
36 TOWN OF PARADISE
RESOLUTION NO. 2022-__
A RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF PARADISE
ACCEPTING THE WORK PERFORMED UNDER THE ON-SYSTEM HARDSCAPE REPLACEMENT PROJECT (CONTRACT NO. 7302.CON).
WHEREAS, the Town of Paradise has heretofore contracted with Franklin Construction, Inc. for certain work performed under that certain project known as the OnSystem Hardscape Replacement Project, being Contract No. 7302.CON; and WHEREAS, said work of improvements, as called for by the contract between the Town of Paradise and Franklin Construction, Inc., referable to said project was completed on September 7, 2022 to the satisfaction of the Town; and WHEREAS, there has been posted a bond insuring the work of improvements from a maintenance standpoint for a period of one year from and after completion.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF PARADISE AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. The Town Council hereby accepts the work performed on those certain improvements, the subject of a contract between the Town of Paradise and Franklin Construction, Inc., known and referred to as the On-System Hardscape Replacement Project.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Town Council of the Town of Paradise at a regular meeting held on the 7
th day of November 2022 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Steve Crowder, Mayor
ATTEST:
Dina Volenski, CMC, Town Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Scott E. Huber, Town Attorney
37 Town of Paradise
Council Agenda Summary
Date: November 7, 2022
Agenda Item: 2(d)
ORIGINATED BY: Jessica Erdahl, Senior Capital Projects Manager REVIEWED BY: Kevin Phillips, Town Manager
SUBJECT: Skyway and Pearson Road Traffic Signal Repair Project Acceptance
LONG TERM
RECOVERY PLAN:
Yes, Tiers 1, Evacuation Routes
COUNCIL ACTION REQUESTED:
1. Adopt Resolution No. 2022-__, a Resolution of the Town Council of the Town of Paradise accepting Contract No. 8403.CON, Skyway and Pearson Road Traffic Signal Repair Project, performed by Bear Electrical Solutions, Inc., Alviso, CA.
Background:
Traffic signal equipment and adjacent hardscape were severely damaged as a result of the Camp Fire wildfire. Town staff completed a damage assessment post-fire and also arranged for temporary repairs (most notably the wood poles and span wire setup for a northbound signal indication) in order to keep the signal functional and safe for the travelling public. The work identified by the Town and incorporated in the final Plans, Specifications, and Estimate will replace the interim repairs and will bring the signal back to its pre-fire condition.
On December 11, 2018, Paradise Town Council awarded a contract to Mark Thomas to perform engineering services on disaster related projects. Subsequently, a task order was issued to perform civil design services on the Skyway and Pearson Road Traffic Signal Repairs Project.
The overall scope of work for the Project can be summarized as follows:
• Repair Camp Fire damaged Traffic signal equipment to achieve a pre-fire condition. • Repair Camp Fire damaged hardscape (curb and gutter, ramps, etc.) to achieve an ADA compliant pre-fire condition.
On July 13th, 2021 Paradise Town Council adopted a resolution approving the Plans & Specifications for the Skyway and Pearson Road Traffic Signal Repair Project. Council further directed staff to advertise for bids on the subject combined project.
On August 10, 2021 Paradise Town Council awarded contract No 8403.CON Skyway and Pearson Road Traffic Signal Repair Project to Bear Electrical Solutions, inc. the amount of their base bid $254,710.00 and approved contingency expenditures not exceeding 10%.
Analysis:
Construction efforts began on February 23, 2022 and continued through October 13, 2022. Work was mutually suspended during the months of September 2021-January 2022 due to traffic signal equipment procurement lead times.
38 Financial Impact:
The total estimated construction cost of the Skyway and Pearson Road Traffic Signal Repair Project, including a 10% contingency, was $280,181.00. The actual total construction cost is $263,632.77. Project expenditures and a funding summary is detailed below:
Contract Items Insurance
Construction Contract - Actuals $263,632.77
Construction Engineering - Estimated $71,411.35
Total $335,044.12
Available Funding $351,592.50
Balance $16,548.38
39 TOWN OF PARADISE
RESOLUTION NO. 2022-___
A RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF
PARADISE ACCEPTING THE WORK PERFORMED UNDER THE
SKYWAY AND PEARSON ROAD TRAFFIC SIGNAL REPAIR PROJECT
(CONTRACT NO. 8403.CON).
WHEREAS, the Town of Paradise has heretofore contracted with Bear Electrical Solutions, Inc. for certain work performed under that certain project known as the Skyway and Pearson Road Traffic Signal Repair Project, being Contract No. 8403.CON; and WHEREAS, said work of improvements, as called for by the contract between the Town of Paradise and Bear Electrical Solutions, Inc., referable to said project was completed on October 13, 2022 to the satisfaction of the Town; and WHEREAS, there has been posted a bond insuring the work of improvements from a maintenance standpoint for a period of one year from and after completion.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF PARADISE AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. The Town Council hereby accepts the work performed on those certain improvements, the subject of a contract between the Town of Paradise and Bear Electrical Solutions, Inc., known and referred to as the Skyway and Pearson Road Traffic Signal Repair Project.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Town Council of the Town of Paradise at a regular meeting held on the 7th day of November 2022 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Steve Crowder, Mayor
ATTEST:
Dina Volenski, CMC, Town Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Scott E. Huber, Town Attorney
40 Town of Paradise
Council Agenda Summary
Date: November 7, 2022
Agenda Item: 2(e)
ORIGINATED BY: Tony Lindsey, Community Development Director – Building & Code Enforcement
REVIEWED BY: Kevin Phillips, Town Manager
Scott Huber, Town Attorney
SUBJECT: Adoption of Ordinance No. 622
LONG-TERM
RECOVERY PLAN:
Yes – Residential Codes & Standards
COUNCIL ACTION REQUESTED:
1. Waive second reading of the entire Town Ordinance No. 622 and approve reading by title only; and,
2. Adopt Town Ordinance No.622. " AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF PARADISE REPEALING PARADISE MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTERS 15.01, 15.02, 15.03, 15.04,
15.05, 15.06, 15.07, 15.08, 15.09, 15.10, 15.11, 15.12, 15.13 AND ADOPTING NEW CHAPTERS 15.01, 15.02, 15.03, 15.04, 15.05, 15.06, 15.07, 15.08, 15.09, 15.10,
15.11, 15.12, 15.13, 15.14, AND 15.15 AND MAKING FINDINGS OF FACTS
RELATING TO LOCAL CLIMATIC, GEOLOGICAL, AND TOPOGRAPHIC
CONDITIONS, ALL RELATING TO THE AMENDMENTS AND ADOPTION OF THE 2022 CALIFORNIA BUILDING STANDARDS CODE."
Background:
On October 11, 2022, the Town Council introduced the above-noted Town ordinance for purposes of eventual adoption. If adopted, the proposed ordinance intends to amend the provisions of Chapters 15.01 through 15.15 of the Paradise Municipal Code to adopt the 2022 California Building Standards Code, with Findings of Fact and local amendments, to keep the Town in conformance with state regulations.
Analysis:
Town staff recommends the Town Council waive the second reading of this entire ordinance, read it by title only, and formally adopt Town Ordinance No. 622 [copy attached]. Once adopted, the provisions of this ordinance will be effective in January 1st, 2023.
Financial Impact:
There will be a nominal cost for publishing the ordinance in the local newspaper and codification. 41 LIST OF ATTACHMENTS
1. Ordinance No. 622 “An ordinance of the Town of Paradise Repealing Paradise Municipal Code Chapters 15.01, 15.02, 15.03, 15.04, 15.05, 15.06, 15.07, 15.08, 15.09, 15.10,
15.11, 15.12, 15.13 and Adopting New Chapters 15.01, 15.02, 15.03, 15.04, 15.05,
15.06, 15.07, 15.08, 15.09, 15.09, 15.10, 15.11, 15.12, 15.13, 15.14 and 15.15, and Making Findings of Facts Relating to Local Climatic, Geological, and Topographic Conditions, All Relating to the Adoption of the California Code of Regulations, TITLE 24, PART 2 VOLUME 1 & 2, PART 2.5, PART 3, PART 4, PART 5, PART 6, PART 8, PART 9, PART 10, PART 11, AND PART 12”.
2. Residential and Non-Residential checklist for permitting Electric Vehicles (EV) and Electric Vehicle Service Equipment (EVSE).
42
Town of Paradise
Ordinance No. 622
AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF PARADISE REPEALING PARADISE MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTERS 15.01, 15.02, 15.03, 15.04, 15.05, 15.06, 15.07, 15.08, 15.09, 15.10, 15.11, 15.12,
15.13, 15.14 AND ADOPTING NEW CHAPTERS 15.01, 15.02, 15.03, 15.04, 15.05, 15.06, 15.07,
15.08, 15.09, 15.10, 15.11, 15.12, 15.13, 15.14, AND 15.15 AND MAKING FINDINGS OF FACTS
RELATING TO LOCAL CLIMATIC, GEOLOGICAL, AND TOPOGRAPHIC CONDITIONS, ALL RELATING TO THE AMENDMENTS AND ADOPTION OF THE 2022 CALIFORNIA BUILDING STANDARDS CODE.
WHEREAS, the Town Council of the Town of Paradise hereby finds that the public health, safety, and welfare will be best protected and served by the adoption of the 2022 California Building Standards Code as established and maintained by the State Building Standards Commission with certain amendments; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Paradise finds that its jurisdiction has specific climatic, topographic, and geologic considerations, as set forth and incorporated herein, that can harm emergency services such as fire protection and emergency medical services and on structures and buildings; and
WHEREAS, except for the amendments authorized by Health and Safety Code sections 17958.5, 17958.7, and 18941.5, the Town of Paradise adopts ordinances and regulations imposing the building regulations contained in the rules adopted by the State according to the Health and Safety Code Section 17922; and
WHEREAS, sections 17958.5, 17958.7, and 18941.5 of the Health and Safety Code authorize the Town of Paradise to make changes or modifications to the California Building Standards Code as are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, topographic, and geologic conditions; and WHEREAS, the California Building Standards Code applies to all occupancies throughout the State; and
WHEREAS, the State of California recently adopted Assembly Bill 1236 and Assembly Bill 970, which requires local agencies to adopt an ordinance that creates an expedited and streamlined permitting process for electric vehicle charging systems; and creation of an expedited, streamlined permitting process for electric vehicle charging stations would facilitate convenient charging of electric vehicles and help reduce the Town's reliance on environmentally damaging fossil fuels; and
43
WHEREAS, pursuant to Health and Safety Code section 17958.7, the Town of Paradise has filed the amendments, additions, or deletions expressly marked and identified as to the applicable findings with the California Building Standards Commission at 2525 Natomas Park Drive, Sacramento, Suite 130, Sacramento, California 95833-2936.
NOW, THEREFORE, The Town Council of the Town of Paradise does now ordain as follows:
SECTION 1. Chapters 15.01, 15.02, 15.03, 15.04, 15.05, 15.06, 15.07, 15.08, 15.09, 15.10,
15.11, 15.12, 15.13 and 15.14 of the Paradise Municipal Code are repealed.
SECTION 2. Chapters 15.01, 15.02, 15.03, 15.04, 15.05, 15.06, 15.07, 15.08, 15.09, 15.10,
15.11, 15.12, 15.13, 15.14 and 15.15 are hereby added to the Paradise Municipal Code read as follows:
15.01.010 Facts and findings.
A. Changes or Modifications. Pursuant to Sections 17958.5, 17958.7 and 18941.5 of the State of California Health and Safety Code, the Town of Paradise adopts and amends the 2022 California Building Standards Code (Title 24, Part 2) based on the 2021 International Building Code (ICC); the 2022 California Residential Code (Title 24, Part 2.5) based on the 2021 International Residential Code (ICC); the 2022 California Electrical Code (Title 24, Part 3) based on the 2020 National Electrical Code (NFPA); the 2022 California Mechanical Code (Title 24, Part 4) based on the 2021 Uniform Mechanical Code (IAPMO); the 2022 California Plumbing Code (Title 24, Part 5) based on the 2021 Uniform Plumbing Code (IAPMO); the 2022 California Fire Code (Title 24, Part 9) based on the 2021 International Fire Code (IFC); the 2022 California Administrative Code (Title 24, Part 1); the 2022 California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6); the 2022 California Historical Building Code (Title 24, Part 8); the 2022 California Existing Building Code (Chapter 10; Title 24, Part 10); the 2022 California Green Building Standards Code (Cal Green, Title 24, Part 11) and the 2022 California Referenced Standards Code (Title 24, Part 12).
NOTE: The State of California officially adopted the 2022 California Administrative, Building, Residential, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Energy, Historical, Fire, Existing Building, Green Building Standards and Referenced Standards Codes in July of this year, and they become mandatory at the local level effective January 1, 2023.
B. Findings. According to Sections 17958.5, 17958.7, and 18941.5 of the State of California Health and Safety Code, the Town of Paradise has determined and found the attached amendments, additions, and/or modifications are needed reasonably necessary because of its local climatic, geologic, and topographical conditions.
C. Local Conditions. Local conditions have an adverse effect on the potential for life and property loss, making necessary changes and modifications to the 2022 California Building Standards Code to establish and maintain an environment that will provide the community with a desirable level of protection.
1. Climatic Conditions.
1A. On average, the Town of Paradise has an annual rainfall of fifty-two (52) to fifty-four (54) inches of rain. However, there is little, if any, measurable precipitation in the summer months. Heavy rains can characterize winter months, and occasionally heavy snowfalls with accumulations above the one thousand eight hundred (1,800) feet level. During the year, the temperatures range from the mid-20s to low 100's degrees in the summer months with light to gusty westerly winds. These drying winds, mixed with the density of vegetation, which is dominant throughout the Town, create a hazardous fuel condition that can have severe consequences.
2. Geographical and Topographical Conditions.
44
2A. The Town of Paradise is located within Butte County in Northern California. It is approximately one hundred (100) miles north of Sacramento and fifteen (15) miles east of the urban community of Chico. The Town of Paradise's population was approximately 26,000+, and the second largest community in Butte County. The Town encompassed 18.6 square miles and was incorporated in 1979. Before incorporation, the Town was a County mountain community with older construction of light commercial and industrial with a predominantly residential character. 2B. The Town of Paradise is located one thousand four hundred (1,400) to two thousand two hundred feet (2,200) above sea level. It is bordered by rugged canyons, creating somewhat of a triangular-shaped area in which the Town is situated.
2C. This environment has natural vegetative growth that is dense, both in the canyon areas and throughout the Town, which presents a challenge and difficulty in fighting and controlling the spread of wildfires. The Town of Paradise has been identified as a very high fire hazard severity zone according to Government Code Sections 51178.5 and 51179, based on the climatic, topographic, and geologic conditions combined with the dense vegetation throughout the Town. 2D. The Town's topography presents problems in the delivery of emergency services, including fire protection. Hilly terrain with narrow, winding roads with little circulation, limited escape routes, and limited ingress and egress to access the Town prevent rapid access and orderly evacuations.
Many miles of public streets and private roads were built years ago, and many private roads are substandard in design and access capability due to topography. 2E. Combined with these features, all-weather surfaces based upon the soil and topographic conditions may not be able to support the imposed loads of fire apparatus and reduce accessibility to emergency response personnel. These conditions increase the likelihood of difficulty with approach angles, steep slopes, grades, and emergency response personnel's ability to be effective.
D. Conclusion. Local climatic, geologic, and topographic conditions impact the built environment and necessitate California Building Standards Code amendments. Therefore, it is reasonably necessary to change or modify the State Building Standards Codes to mitigate the effects of the above conditions by adopting this Ordinance. Furthermore, California Health and Safety Code Section 17958.7 require that the modifications or change be expressly marked and identified as to each finding to which it refers. Therefore, the Town of Paradise finds that Exhibit "A" [below] provides the code sections that have been modified according to the Ordinance that are building standards as defined in the Health and Safety Code Section 18909, and the associated referenced conditions or modifications are due to local climatic, geologic and topographical considerations.
EXHIBIT "A"
FACTS & FINDING CORRELATION
PARADISE MUNICIPAL
CODE SECTION
CALIFORNIA
CODE
CODE
SECTION
AMENDED
SHORT TITLE REFERENCED
FACT/FINDING
15.02.010 CBC Adoption Health & Safety
Code 17958.5
15.02.020 CBC 105.2 Work Exempt from
Permits
Administrative
15.02.030 CBC 107.6 Expiration of Plan Review Administrative
15.02.040 CBC 109.4 Commencing Work/Permit Administrative
15.02.050 CBC 109.6 Refunds Administrative
15.02.060 CBC 114.4 Violation Penalties Administrative
45
15.02.070 CBC 202 Definitions Administrative
15.02.080 CBC 1505.1.3 Roof Coverings 1A, 2A, 2B, 2C
15.02.090 CBC 1603.1.3 Roof Snow Loads 1A, 2A
15.02.100 CBC J101.1 Scope Administrative
15.02.110 CBC J101.3 Purpose Administrative
15.02.120 CBC J101.4 Hazards Administrative
15.02.130 CBC J102 Definitions Administrative
15.02.140 CBC J103 Permits Required Administrative
15.02.150 CBC J104.2 Site Plan Requirements Administrative
15.02.160 CBC J104.5 Bonds Administrative
15.02.170 CBC J105.3 Inspections Administrative
15.02.180 CBC J106.2 Rounding of cut slopes 1A, 2A, 2B, 2D, 2E
15.02.190 CBC J106.3 Private road construction 1A, 2A, 2B, 2D, 2E
15.02.200 CBC J106.3.1 Private road construction 1A, 2A, 2B, 2D, 2E
15.02.210 CBC J107.7 Rounding of fill slopes 1A, 2A, 2B, 2D
15.02.220 CBC J109.5 Overflow protection 1A, 2A, 2B, 2D, 2E
15.02.230 CBC J110.3 Disturbed surfaces 1A, 2A, 2B, 2D, 2E
15.02.240 CBC J110.4 Storm damage
precautions
1A, 2A, 2B, 2D, 2E
15.03.010 CRC Adoption Health & Safety
Code 17958.5
15.03.020 CBC R105.2 Work Exempt from
Permits
Administrative
15.03.030 CRC R108.5 Refunds Administrative
15.03.040 CRC R108.6 Commencing Work Before
Permit
Administrative
15.03.050 CRC R202 Definitions Administrative
15.03.060 CRC R313.2.2 Alarms 1A, 2C, 2D
15.03.070 CRC R337.1.3,
Exceptions
(1) & (2)
and
R337.5.4
Wildland Urban Interface
& Non-combustible
gutters
Health & Safety
Code 17958.5
15.03.080 CRC R902.1 Roof Coverings 1A, 2A, 2B, 2C
15.04.010 CEC Adoption Health & Safety
Code 17958.5
15.05.010 CMC Adoption Health & Safety
Code 17958.5
15.06.010 CPC Adoption Health & Safety
Code 17958.5
15.07.010 Ca. Energy
Code
Adoption Health & Safety
Code 17958.5
15.08.010 Ca. Historical
Code
Adoption Health & Safety
Code 17958.5
46
15.09.010 CFC Adoption Health & Safety
Code 17958.5
15.09.020 CFC 103 Dept. of Fire Prevention Administrative
15.09.030 CFC 105.2.3 Time Limitation of
Application
Administrative
15.09.040 CFC 106.6.29 Miscellaneous
Combustibles
2A, 2B, 2D,
15.09.050 CFC 109.3 Violation Penalties Administrative
15.09.060 CFC 111.4 Failure to Comply Administrative
15.09.070 CFC 113.3 Work Commencing Administrative
15.09.080 CFC 113.5 Refunds Administrative
15.09.090 CFC 202 Sky Lantern Administrative
15.09.100 CFC 307.1 General Open Burning 1A, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D
15.09.110 CFC 308.6.3 Sky Lantern 1A, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D
15.09.120 CFC 503.2.1 Dimensions 1A, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D,
2E
15.09.130 CFC 503.2.3 Surface-Access Roadways 1A, 2A, 2B, 2D, 2E
15.09.140 CFC 503.4.1 Roadway Design Features 1A, 2A, 2B, 2D, 2E
15.09.150 CFC 503.6 Gates 2D, 2E
15.09.160 CFC 505.3 Map/Directory 2D
15.09.170 CFC 507.1.2 Required Water Supply 1A, 2A, 2B, 2D
15.09.180 CFC 510.6.1 Testing and Proof Administrative
15.09.190 CFC 901.4.2 Non-Required Fire Prot.
System
2D
15.09.200 CFC 2306.2.3 Aboveground Storage
Tanks
1A, 2A, 2B
15.09.210 CFC Chapter 56 Fireworks 1A, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D
15.09.220 CFC B105.2
Exception 1
Reduced Fire Flow 1A, 2A, 2B, 2D
15.09.230 CFC D103.4 Dead End Access 1A, 2A, 2B, 2D, 2E
15.10.010 Ca. Existing
Building Code
Adoption Health & Safety
Code 17958.5
15.11.010 Ca. Green
Building
Standards
Code
Adoption Health & Safety
Code 17958.5
15.12.010 Ca.
Administrative
Code
Adoption Health & Safety
Code 17958.5
15.13.010 Ca. Ref. Stds. Adoption Health & Safety
Code 17958.5
47
Chapter 15.02 2022 California Building Standards Code (Title 24, Part 2) Based upon the International Building Code (ICC)
15.02.010 Adoption.
The 2022 California Building Standards Code, Part 2, Volumes 1 and 2, including Chapter 7A, Appendices "B", "F," "G", "H", "I", "J", known as the California Building Code, as published and adopted by the California Building Standards Commission, including the Town's amendments, deletions, and additions set forth in this Chapter, is hereby adopted by reference and incorporated herein.
15.02.020 Chapter 1, Division II, Section 105.2, Work Exempt from Permits, added.
14. Floor sheathing, decking, and exterior siding repair - limited to 100 square feet of floor sheathing or siding and less than 100 linear board feet of decking.
15. Replacement, repair, or overlay of less than 10% not to exceed 100 square feet of an existing roof within any 12-month period. All repairs shall be Class A only.
16. Approved prefabricated carports serving residential land uses open on two or more sides, do not exceed 480 square feet in footprint, are installed per the manufacturer's instructions, and are located in compliance with applicable building or structure setbacks.
15.02.030 Chapter 1, Division II, Section 107.6, Expiration of Plan Review, added.
Applications for which no permit has been issued shall expire one year following the date of application or on the effective date of a new Town adopted edition of any part of the California Building Standards Code, whichever comes later. Plans and other data submitted for review may thereafter be returned to the applicant or destroyed by the Building Official. In order to renew action on an application after expiration, the applicant shall resubmit plans and pay a new plan review fee.
Exception: Such applications shall not expire under the following circumstances:
1. If the Building Official determines the new code changes are minor, additional reviews of the plans to determine compliance with the new codes may be done in lieu of expiration. The normal hourly rate, as determined by the Master Fee Schedule adopted by the Town of Paradise Town Council, shall apply to any additional review.
2. Applications for which plans have been submitted as a result of a compliance investigation shall expire 180 days following the date of application. No extensions will be granted except in emergency situations approved prior to the expiration by the Building Official.
15.02.040 Chapter 1, Division II, Section 109.4, Work Commencing Before Permit Issuance, amended.
Any person who commences any work on a building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system before first obtaining the necessary permits shall be subject to an investigation fee equal to the permit fee to be paid in addition to the permit fee when obtaining the building permit. All fees must be paid prior to release of the permit.
48
15.02.050 Chapter 1, Division II, Section 109.6 Refunds, amended.
The Building Official may authorize refunding of a fee paid hereunder which was erroneously paid or collected. The Building Official may authorize refunding of not more than 80 percent of the permit or plan review fee paid when no work or plan examination has been done under an application or permit issued in accordance with this code, provided a written refund application is filed by the original permittee prior to the expiration of the permit.
15.02.060 Chapter 1, Division II, Section 114.4 Violation Penalties, amended. (a) It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, improve, remove, convert, demolish, equipment use, occupy or maintain any real property, building, structure, or building service equipment or cause or permit the same to be done in violation of Title 15 of the Paradise Municipal Code (PMC), this code or the technical codes as amended and adopted by the Town. Any person who violates any of the provisions of Title 15 of the PMC, this code, or the technical codes adopted by this jurisdiction or fails to comply with any order made there under, or who builds in violation of any detailed statement of specifications or plans submitted or approved there under, or any certificate or permit issued there under, and from which no appeal has been taken, or who fails to comply with such an order as affirmed or modified by the Board of Appeals or by a court of competent jurisdiction within the time fixed herein, is severally for each violation or noncompliance respectively guilty of an infraction punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00). Each separate day or any portion thereof during which any violation occurs or continues is a separate offense, and upon conviction thereof shall be punishable as provided in this section. Any person, firm or corporation found guilty of any such violation shall be fully responsible for all of the Town's costs relating to the enforcement, investigation and prosecution of the offender.
The imposition of a penalty for any violation or noncompliance shall not excuse the violation of noncompliance or permit it to continue; and all such persons shall be required to correct or remedy such violations or defects within a reasonable time; and when not otherwise specified, each day that prohibited conditions are maintained shall constitute a separate offense. (b) The application of the above penalty shall not be held to prevent the enforced removal of the prohibited conditions,
(c) The issuance or granting of a permit or approval of plans and specifications shall not be deemed or construed to be a permit for, or an approval of, any violation of any of the provisions of these codes and shall not prevent the administrative authority from thereafter requiring the correction of errors in said plans or specifications or from preventing construction operations being carried on there under when in violation of these codes or any other ordinance or from revoking any certificate of occupancy or approval when issued in error. No permit presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this Chapter shall be valid, except insofar as the work or use which it authorized is lawful. (d) Any violation of the provisions of Title 15 or of the technical codes as adopted by the Town shall be and is hereby declared to be unlawful and a public nuisance and may be abated in the manner provided by law. (e) The Town Attorney shall, upon the order of the Town Manager or his/her designee, immediately commence action or proceedings for the abatement and removal and enjoinment of any violation of Title 15 or of any technical codes as adopted by the Town as provided by law, and shall take such action and shall apply to such courts of competent jurisdiction to grant such relief as will abate and remove such building or structure or use, and restrain and enjoin any person from setting up, building, maintaining, or using such real property, building, structure, use or occupancy contrary to this code or the technical codes. 49
15.02.070 Chapter 2, Section 202, Definitions, added.
New Construction: For the purposes of enforcing the provisions of the California Fire Code, California Building Code, and the California Residential Building Code, any work, addition to, remodel, repair, renovation, or alteration of any building(s) or structure(s) shall be considered "New Construction" when 50 percent or more of the exterior weight bearing walls are removed or demolished.
15.02.080 Chapter 15, Section 1505.1.3, Roof Coverings, amended.
All roofing materials shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions. The entire roof covering of every new structure shall be a minimum Class "A" roof covering. Any roof covering material applied in the alteration, repair or replacement of the roof of the existing structure shall be a minimum of a Class "A" roof covering. The entire roof covering of every existing structure where more than 50 percent of the total roof area is replaced within a one-year period shall be a minimum of a Class "A" roof covering. The owner of any structure regulated by this code shall comply with the provisions of this section relating to roofing materials.
15.02.090 Chapter 16, Section 1603.1.3 Roof Snow Loads, amended.
Snow loads full or unbalanced shall be considered in place of loads set forth in Table No. 1607.1, where such loading will result in larger members and connections. The minimum design snow load and roof live load for the Town of Paradise shall be twenty (20) pounds per square foot below elevation 1,800 feet and thirty (30) pounds per square foot at 1,800 feet and elevations above.
Potential accumulations of snow at roof valleys, parapets, roof structures and offsets in roofs of uneven configuration shall be considered. Where snow loads occur, the snow loads shall be determined by the Building Official.
15.02.100 Section J101.1 Scope, amended.
Section J101.1. This Chapter sets forth rules and regulations to control excavation, grading and earthwork construction, including fills and embankments, and erosion and sediment control; establishes the administrative procedure for issuance of permits; and provides for approval of plans and inspection of grading, erosion and sediment control operations.
15.02.110 Section J101.3, added.
Section J101.3. The purpose of this Chapter is to safeguard life, limb, property and the public welfare, and to preserve and enhance the natural environment by preventing and eliminating conditions of accelerated erosion and by regulating grading on private and public property in the incorporated areas of the Town of Paradise.
15.02.120 Section J101.4, added.
(a) Hazardous Conditions. Whenever the Building Official /or the Town Engineer determines that any existing excavation, embankment or fill has become a hazard to life and limb, or endangers structures, or adversely affects the safety, use, or stability of a public way or drainage channel, the owner of the property upon which the excavation, embankment, or fill is located, or other person or agent in control of said property, upon receipt of notice in writing from the Building Official or Town Engineer shall within the period specified therein repair, reconstruct or remove such excavation, embankment, or fill so as to eliminate the hazard. (b) Maintenance of Protective Devices and Rodent Control. The owner of any property on which grading has been performed and a permit issued under the provisions of this code, or any other person or agent in control of such property, shall maintain in good condition and repair all drainage structures and other 50
protective devices and burrowing rodent control when shown on the grading plans filed with the application for grading permit and approved as a condition precedent to the issuance of such permit.
15.02.130 Section J102 Definitions, amended.
The following definitions are amended or added to Section J102 with all other definitions in the section remaining unchanged:
"Certifications" shall mean the specific inspections or tests required by the Building Official or Town Engineer have been performed and that the results of such tests are satisfactory and that all work complies with the conditions of the permits and the requirements of this Chapter. "Design Engineer" shall be the Civil Engineer responsible for the preparation of the plans for the grading work.
"Drainage Course" shall be a natural or man-made channel which conveys storm runoff either year-round or intermittently.
"Hazardous Condition" shall be any natural ground, natural slope, excavation, fill, drainage device or erosion control device on public or private property is a menace to life and limb, or a danger to public safety, or endangers or adversely affects the safety, usability or stability of adjacent property, structures, or public or private facilities. "Hill Area" shall be any part of the Town with street grades of ten percent (10%) or greater. "Landscape Architect" shall be a person who holds a certificate to practice landscape architecture in the State of California.
"Natural Grade" shall be the vertical location of the ground surface prior to excavation or fill. "Soil Testing Agency" shall be an agency regularly engaged in the testing of soils under the direction of a Civil Engineer experienced in soil mechanics.
"Surface Drainage" shall be water flows over the ground surface.
15.02.140 Section J103 Permits required, amended.
Section J103. No person shall do any grading, clearing, or grubbing without first having obtained a grading permit from the Town Engineer except for the following:
1. Grading associated with a commercial development required to obtain planning approval prior to issuance of a building permit, or required to obtain a building permit. Grading associated with the Commercial Development shall be tied to the issuance of the building permit, and associated environmental reviews and clearances.
2. An excavation which does not exceed two feet in vertical depth at its deepest point measured from the original ground surface and which does not create a cut slope greater than four feet in height and steeper than one and one-half horizontal to one vertical and does not exceed fifty cubic yards (1,350 cubic feet) of material.
3. A fill that does not exceed one foot in vertical depth and is placed on natural terrain with a slope flatter than five horizontal to one vertical at its deepest point measured from the natural ground surface, or less than three feet in depth, not intended to support structures, which do not exceed fifty cubic yards on any one lot and does not change the existing drainage pattern.
4. Temporary excavations in a public street or right-of-way for which a permit has been issued by the Department of Public Works.
51
5. An excavation below finish grade for a basement, footing, retaining wall, swimming pool, or other structure authorized by a valid permit, which excavation will be completely occupied by and retained by the structure authorized by valid building permit.
6. A fill above existing grade, which fill will be retained by the exterior wall of a building, a retaining wall, swimming pool or other structure authorized by a valid building permit.
7. Gardening and routine agricultural crop management practices.
8. Excavations for utilities installed pursuant to permits issued by the Building Department and/or the Department of Public Works.
9. Refuse disposal sites controlled by other regulations.
10. Mining, quarrying, excavating, processing, stockpiling of rock, sand, gravel, aggregate or clay where established and provided for by law, provided such operations do not affect the lateral support or increase the stresses in or pressure upon any adjacent or contiguous buildings or property and required permits are obtained.
11. Exploratory excavations under the direction of soils engineers or engineering geologist.
12. Routine maintenance of private roads.
13. Clearing of vegetation for fire protection purposes within one hundred (100) feet of a dwelling unit. Any additional clearing for fire prevention, control or suppression purposes is exempt when authorized or required in writing by a fire prevention or suppression agency.
In addition, all excavations or fills that disturb one (1) acre or greater must comply with the State Construction Stormwater Permit and supply a copy of the required Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) and Waste Discharger Identification (WDID) number, to the Town Engineer.
15.02.150 Section J104.2 Permit Application and Submittals, Site Plan Requirements, amended.
Section J104.2 Information on Plans and in Specifications. Plans shall be drawn to scale upon substantial paper and shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the nature and extent of work proposed and shown in detail that they will conform to provisions of ordinances, rules and regulations. The first sheet shall give the location of the work and the name and address of the owner and the person by whom they were prepared. At the sole discretion of the Building Official/Town Engineer, the plans may be required to be professionally prepared, and/or stamped and signed by a Registered Civil Engineer, and additional information may be required, if applicable to the site or grading operation proposed.
The plans shall include the following information, at a minimum:
1. Vicinity Map showing the project site in relationship to surrounding areas, water courses, water bodies and other significant geographic features, roads and structures.
2. Site Map and Grading plan showing: topographic and boundary survey with existing and proposed contours, with enough off-site contours included to show how surface water will flow onto and off the site; slope arrows and slopes; proposed limits of cuts and fills and other earthwork; proposed retaining structures; existing off-site structures within fifteen (15) feet of the site boundary and other off-site improvements, including but not limited to underground utilities, septic systems, water wells and french drains which may be affected by the grading work; public and private easements of record; typical sections of areas to be graded and profiles of all proposed traveled ways for vehicles and pedestrians; all proposed uses for the site; all proposed divisions; rock disposal areas, buttress fills or other specials features.
52
3. Drainage plan showing: all drainage devices, walls, cribbing or other protective devices and estimated runoff; building site including elevations of floors with respect to finish site grade and locations of proposed stoops, slabs and fences that may affect drainage.
4. A statement of the quantities of material to be excavated and/or filled and the amount of such material to be imported to or exported from the site.
5. A statement of the estimated starting and completion dates for work covered by the permit.
6. Erosion and Sediment control plans when required by the Town Engineer shall be prepared, stamped and signed by a Registered Civil Engineer or Erosion Control Professional and shall include all the following:
(a) Interim measures designed to prevent excessive storm runoff of water or solid materials onto adjacent property, streets or watercourses including, but not limited to short term erosion control planting, waterproof slope covering, check dams, interceptor ditches, benches, storm drains, dissipation structures, diversion dikes, retarding berms and barriers, devices to trap, store and filter out sediment and storm water retention basins. (b) A narrative description of measure to be taken, planting materials and specifications, maintenance provisions and fertilizers. A statement: the plans are subject to change as conditions change.
(c) Calculations of anticipated storm water runoff or runon and sediment volumes shall be included, if required by the Building Official or the Town Engineer. (d) The name, address and contact telephone number of the person responsible for emergency call out in the event of apparent danger to life or property as determined by the Town Engineer or Building Official.
15.02.160 Section J104.5 Grading Bonds, added.
Section J104.5 Grading Bonds.
(a) Bond Requirements. Whenever an application for grading permit is filed for the excavation or fill and the nature of the work is such that if left incomplete, will create a hazard to human life or endanger adjoining property, or the volume of the work is over 200 cubic yards, or property at a higher or lower level, or to any street or street improvement or any other public property, the Building Offficial/Town Engineer shall, before issuing the grading permit, have the discretion to require the applicant to guarantee faithful performance and payment of labor and material in a bond amount determined by the Town Engineer, which shall be not less than one hundred percent (100%) of the total estimated cost of the work, including corrective work necessary to remove or eliminate geological hazards. An additional cash deposit may be required by the Town Engineer in the form of a cash bond sufficient to cover the cost of site cleanup and debris removal.
Where grading is required on property adjacent to the grading site to complete a project satisfactorily, the owner of the adjacent property need not provide additional security if the original guarantee is of sufficient amount to include such additional grading. Each bond and agreement shall remain in effect until the work authorized by the grading permit is completed and approved by the Town Engineer. (b) Type of Bond. A guarantee of faithful performance and payment of labor and material, when required under the provisions of this section, shall be provided by one of the following methods:
1. Bonds executed by the applicant, as principal, and a corporate surety authorized to do business in the State, as surety, and in a form furnished by the Town Engineer and approved by the Town Attorney.
2. A cash deposit with the Town.
53
3. An instrument or instruments of credit from one or more financial institutions subject to regulation by the state or federal government pledging that the funds necessary to meet the performance are on deposit and guaranteed for payment, and an agreement that the funds designated by the instrument shall become trust funds for the purpose of securing faithful performance and payment of labor and material. The instrument of credit and agreement shall first be approved by the Town Attorney. (c) Procedure on Default.
1. Whenever the Town Engineer finds that a default has occurred in the performance of any term or condition of any grading permit, written notice of the fact of default shall be given to the principal and to the corporate surety, financial institution or the depositor, stating the work to be done and the period of time deemed by the Town Engineer to be reasonably necessary for the completion of such work. Thirty days after the receipt of such notice the principal or the surety shall perform or cause the required work to be performed by commencing and diligently prosecuting the work to its completion.
If either or both of them fail to commence such work within thirty (30) days, or having so commenced the work, fail, neglect or refuse to proceed diligently to complete the same within the time so specified in the notice, then the Town may enter the premises and do the work, and the cost and expense of doing the work so specified shall be the obligation of the principal and the surety, and shall be a part of the terms of the performance bond in consideration of the issuance of the grading permit.
2. If a cash bond has been posted, notice of default as provided by subdivision 1 of this subsection is given to the depositor, and if the depositor fails to cause the required work to be resumed as set forth in the notice within thirty (30) days after receipt thereof, the Town Engineer shall proceed without delay and without further notice or proceedings whatsoever to use the cash deposited, or any portion thereof, and cause the required work to be completed by such mode as he deems convenient. The balance of such cash deposit, if any, shall, upon the completion of the work, be returned to the depositor or his successor or assigns after deducting ten percent (10%) thereof.
3. If an instrument of credit is used to guarantee performance, notice of default shall be given, as provided in subdivision 1 of this subsection to the principal and to the financial institution issuing the instrument of credit, and if the principal fails to cause the required work to be resumed as set forth in the notice within thirty (30) days after receipt thereof, the Town Engineer shall make a demand upon the financial institution for the payment of the estimated costs from the trust fund held by the financial institution pursuant to the agreement. Upon receipt of said sum, the Town Engineer shall proceed without delay and without further notice or proceedings whatsoever to use the sum, or any portion thereof, and cause the required work to be completed by such mode as he deems convenient. The balance of such sum, if any, shall, upon the completion of the work, be returned to the financial institution, its successors or assigns, after deducting ten percent (10%) thereof; but if the financial institution fails or refuses to pay over said sum, then the Town Engineer shall proceed as in subdivision 1 of this subsection and shall look to said institution for the costs and expenses of the work, and the contractual liability of such institution therefore shall be a term or condition of its agreement.
15.02.170 Section J105.3 Grading Inspections, added.
Section J105.3 Inspections. If required in the Grading Permit, or if notified by the Town Engineer or Inspector that an inspection notice is required, the owner or his agent shall notify the Town Engineer/Inspector twenty-four (24) hours in advance of the time when the grading operation is ready for each of the following inspections.
Required Inspection Notices:
1. Initial inspection. When the permittee is ready to begin work, but before any grading is started;
2. Toe Inspection. After the natural ground is exposed and prepared to receive fill, but prior to the placement of any fill;
54
3. Excavation Inspection. After the excavation is started, but before the vertical depth of the excavation exceeds ten (10) feet;
4. Fill Inspection. After the fill emplacement is started, but before the vertical height of the lifts exceeds ten (10) feet;
5. Drainage Device Inspection. After forms, pipe and wire mesh are in place, but before any concrete is placed;
6. Final Inspection. When all work, including installation of all drainage structures, other protective devices, irrigation systems, planting and slope stabilization has been completed as per the approved grading plan and required reports have been submitted;
7. Other Inspection. In addition to the called inspections above, the Town Engineer may make periodic inspections of the grading operations to ascertain compliance with the provisions of this Chapter.
15.02.180 Section J106.2 Rounding of Cut Slopes, added.
Section J106.2 Rounding of cut slopes. All cut slopes shall be rounded/conformed into the existing terrain to produce a contoured transition from cut face to natural ground where conditions permit.
15.02.190 Section J106.3 Private Road Construction, added.
Section J106.3.1 Private Road Construction. (1) All private road construction involving grading shall be done under permit pursuant to the provisions of this section and shall be subject to the requirements stated in the Town of Paradise "Public and Private Road Standards of the Town of Paradise."
15.02.200 Section J107.7 Rounding of Fill Slopes, added.
Section J107.7 Rounding of Fill Slopes. All fill slopes shall be rounded/conformed into the existing terrain to produce a contoured transition from fill face to natural ground where conditions permit.
15.02.210 Section J109.5 Overflow Protection, added.
Section J109.5 Overflow Protection. Berms, swales or other devices shall be provided at the top of cut or fill slopes to prevent surface waters from overflowing onto and damaging the face of the slope. Gutters or other special drainage controls shall be provided where the proximity of runoff from buildings or other structures is such as to pose a potential hazard to slope integrity.
15.02.220 Section J110.3 Disturbed Surfaces, added.
Section J110.3 Disturbed Surfaces. All disturbed surfaces resulting from grading operations shall be prepared and maintained to control erosion. Dust from grading operations must be controlled. The owner or contractor may be required to keep adequate equipment on the grading site to prevent dust problems.
15.02.230 Section J110.4 Rainy Season Grading Precautions, added.
Section J110.4 Rainy Season Grading Precautions.
1. The period between the first day of October and the following fifteenth day of April is found and determined to be the period in which heavy rainfall normally occurs in the Town. During this period, regardless of an actual rain event, no grading work in excess of two hundred fifty (250) cubic yards may be commenced on any single grading site if the Town Engineer determines that such work will endanger the public health or safety, or performance of the proposed grading activity is deemed not feasible to protect with erosion 55
control measures, or in the best engineering judgement of the Town Engineer, should not be performed due to other related circumstances. Issuance of Grading Permits of any amount during this time are at the sole discretion of the Building Official/Town Engineer.
2. If grading operations are to be conducted during such period, plans for erosion control devices shall be submitted to the Town Engineer and design approval obtained prior to starting work.
3. All persons performing any grading operations during such period shall put into effect all safety precautions which are necessary to protect public and private property and access ways. All loose dirt shall be removed from the grading site and adequate erosion control or drainage devices, debris basins, or other safety devices shall be installed to protect persons and property from damage of any kind. All temporary erosion control devices, including desilting basins, shall be installed and be operative no later than the first day of November of each year, or as required to comply with local and State erosion control requirements.
Chapter 15.03 2022 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE (TITLE 24, PART 2.5) BASED UPON THE 2021 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE (ICC)
15.03.010 2022 California Residential Code Title 24, Part 2.5, adopted.
The 2022 California Residential Code, Title 24, Part 2.5 including Appendices "A.H.", "A.J.", "A.K.", "A.Q.", "A.W.", and "A.X.", known as the California Residential Code, as published and adopted by the California Building Standards Commission, including the Town's amendments and additions, is hereby adopted by reference and incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
15.03.020 Chapter 1, Division II, Section R105.2, Work Exempt from Permits, added.
14. Floor sheathing, decking and exterior siding repair - limited to 100 square feet of floor sheathing or siding and less than 100 linear board feet of decking.
15. Replacement, repair or overlay of less than 10% not to exceed 100 square feet of an existing roof within any 12-month period, all repairs shall be Class A only.
16. Approved prefabricated carports serving residential land uses open on two or more sides, do not exceed 480 square feet in footprint, are installed per the manufacturer's instructions, and are located in compliance with applicable building or structure setbacks.
15.03.030 Chapter 1, Division II, Section R108.5, Refunds, amended.
The Building Official may authorize refunding of a fee paid hereunder which was erroneously paid or collected. The Building Official may authorize refunding of not more than 80 percent of the permit or plan review fee paid when no work or plan examination has been done under an application or permit issued in accordance with this code, provided a written refund application is filed by the original permittee prior to the expiration of the permit.
15.03.040 Chapter 1, Division II, Section R108.6, Work Commencing Before Permit Issuance, amended.
Any person who commences any work on a building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system before first obtaining the necessary permits shall be subject to a penalty equal to the permit fee to be paid in addition to the permit fee when obtaining the building. All fees must be paid prior to release of the permit. 56
15.03.050 Chapter 2, Section 202, Definitions, added.
New Construction: For the purposes of enforcing the provisions of the California Fire Code, California Building Code, and the California Residential Building Code, any work, addition to, remodel, repair, renovation, or alteration of any building(s) or structure(s) shall be considered "New Construction" when 50 percent or more of the exterior weight bearing walls are removed or demolished.
15.03.060 Chapter 3, Section R313.2.2 Alarms, added.
One exterior approved audible sprinkler water flow alarm device shall be connected to every automatic fire sprinkler system in an approved location. Such device shall be activated by water flow equivalent to the flow of a single sprinkler of the smallest orifice size installed in the system.
Multipurpose Piping Sprinkler System: In this system, the piping is intended to serve both domestic needs and the fire protection needs from one common piping system throughout the dwelling unit. A passive purge system is a multipurpose type, where a single toilet (or multiple toilets) is supplied in addition to the fire sprinklers.
A single check valve is required in this type of system. Water flow device shall be activated by water flow equivalent to the flow of a single sprinkler of the smallest orifice size installed in the system. Water flow device may have an alarm delay of no more than 90 seconds.
15.030.070 Chapter 3, Section R337.1.3, Exceptions 1 & 2: Accessory Structures and Section R337.5.4 Roof Gutters, amended.
R337.1.3, Exception 1: Buildings of an accessory character classified as Group U occupancy and not exceeding 120 square feet in floor area, when located at least 30 feet from an applicable building (as written in current code).
R337.1.3, Exception 2: Buildings of an accessory character classified as Group U occupancy exceeding 120 square feet in size, based on the exterior measurements of the structure, shall comply with Section R337 and Wildland Urban Interface requirements.
R337.5.4: Roof gutters of a non-combustible material shall be provided with means of preventing accumulation of leaves and debris in the gutter.
15.030.080 Chapter 9, Section 902.1, Roofing Covering Material, amended.
All roofing materials shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions. The entire roof covering of every new structure shall be a minimum Class "A" roof covering. Any roof covering material applied in the alteration, repair or replacement of the roof of the existing structure shall be a minimum of a Class "A" roof covering. The entire roof covering of every existing structure where more than 50 percent of the total roof area is replaced within a one-year period shall be a minimum of a Class "A" roof covering. The owner of any structure regulated by this code shall comply with the provisions of this section relating to roofing materials. 57
Chapter 15.04 2022 CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE (TITLE 24, PART 3) BASED UPON THE 2020 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE (NFPA)
15.04.010 Adoption.
The 2022 California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 3, California Electrical Code, including the informative Annexes "A", "B", "C", "D", "F", "G", "I", and "J" as published and adopted by the California Building Standards Commission, is adopted by reference and incorporated herein as if fully set forth in this Chapter.
Chapter 15.05 2022 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE (TITLE 24, PART 4) BASED ON THE 2021 UNIFORM MECHANICAL CODE (IAPMO)
15.05.010 Adoption.
The 2022 California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 4, California Mechanical Code including Appendices "B", "C", "D", "F", and "G" as published and adopted by the California Building Standards Commission is adopted by reference and incorporated herein as if fully set forth in this Chapter.
Chapter 15.06 2022 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE (TITLE 24, PART 5) BASED UPON THE 2021 UNIFORM PLUMBING CODE (IAPMO)
15.06.010 Adoption.
The 2022 California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 5, California Plumbing Code, including Appendices "A", "B", "F", "G", "H", "I", and "J" as published and adopted by the California Building Standards Commission is adopted by reference and incorporated herein as if fully set forth in this Chapter.
Chapter 15.07 2022 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE (TITLE 24, PART 6)
15.07.010 Adoption.
The 2022 California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 6, California Energy Code, including Appendices "1-A" and "1-B" as published and adopted by the California Building Standards Commission is adopted by reference and incorporated herein as if fully set forth in this Chapter. 58
Chapter 15.08 2022 CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE
(TITLE 24, PART 8)
15.08.010 Adoption.
The 2022 California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 8, California Historical Building Code, including Appendix A as published and adopted by the California Building Standards Commission is adopted by reference and incorporated herein as if fully set forth in this Chapter.
Chapter 15.09 2022 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE (TITLE 24, PART 9)
15.09.010 2022 California Fire Code (Title 24, Part 9), adopted.
The 2022 California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 9, including Appendix Chapters 4, "B", "B.B.", "C", "CC", "D", "E", "F", "G", "H", "I", "K" "N" and "O" known as the California Fire Code, as published and adopted by the California Building Standards Commission, including the Town's amendments and additions, is hereby adopted by reference and incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
15.09.020 Chapter 1, Division II, Section 103, Dept. of Fire Prevention, amended.
The California Fire Code shall be enforced by the Fire Prevention Bureau within the Town of Paradise, which is hereby established, and which shall be operated under the direction of the Fire Chief of the Fire Department. The Fire Chief of the Fire Department may detail to the fire prevention bureau such members of the Fire Department as may from time to time be necessary. The Fire Chief of the Fire Department shall review, authorize, or require technical experts as may be necessary in order to ensure that life and property protection requirements have met the requirements of this and all other Title 24 codes and standards.
Sections 103.1; 103.2; and 103.3 are hereby deleted in their entirety.
15.09.030 Chapter 1, Division II, Section 105.2.3, Time Limitation of Application, amended.
An application for a permit for any proposed work shall expire one (1) year after the date of filing unless the permit has been issued.
15.09.040 Chapter 1, Division II, Section 106.6.29, Miscellaneous Combustible Storage, amended.
An operational permit is required to store in any building or upon any premises in excess of 2,500 cubic feet gross volume of combustible empty packing cases, boxes, barrels or similar containers, rubber tires, rubber, cork, firewood (retail or storage) or similar combustible material.
15.09.050 Chapter 1, Division II, Section 109.3, Violation Penalties, amended.
Persons who shall violate a provision of this code or shall fail to comply with any of the requirements thereof or shall erect, install, alter, repair or do work in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the fire code official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code, shall be subject to penalties as set forth in section 15.02.210. Each day that a violation continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense.
59
15.09.060 Chapter 1, Division II, Section 111.4, Failure to Comply, amended.
Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be liable to a fine of not less than $100 or more than $500.
15.09.070 Chapter 1, Division II, Section 113.3, Work commencing before permit issuance, amended.
Any person who commences any work, activity or operation regulated by this code before obtaining the necessary permits shall be subject to an investigation fee that is equal to 50% of the original permit fee, which shall be in addition to the required permit fees.
15.09.080 Chapter 1, Division II, Section 113.5, Refunds, amended.
The Fire Marshal may authorize refunding of a fee paid hereunder which was erroneously paid or collected. The Fire Marshal may authorize refunding of not more than 80 percent of the permit or plan review fee paid when no work or plan examination has been done under an application or permit issued in accordance with this code, provided a written refund application is filed by the original permittee prior to the expiration of the permit.
15.09.090 Chapter 2, Section 202, Definitions, Sky Lantern, added.
SKY LANTERN: An unmanned device with a fuel source that incorporates an open flame in order to make the device airborne.
NEW CONSTRUCTION: For the purposes of enforcing the provisions of the California Fire Code, California Building Code, and the California Residential Building Code, any work, addition to, remodel, repair, renovation, or alteration of any building(s) or structure(s) shall be considered "New Construction" when 50 percent or more of the exterior weight bearing walls are removed or demolished.
15.09.100 Chapter 3, Section 307.1, General Open Burning, amended.
Burn permits are required for all outdoor burning within the Town of Paradise limits with the exception of barbeque equipment used for the preparation of food and outdoor fireplaces or warming devices used in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications, approved screening not to exceed 3/8-inch opening and in a safe manner.
Residential Burn Permits: Permits shall be issued annually, July 1 through June 30 and may be suspended, restricted, or prohibited as determined by the Fire Chief and a fee in accordance with the Master Fee schedule of the Town of Paradise shall be charged. Permits shall only be valid for the address, and name of the individual cited on the permit. Permits shall not be transferable to other addresses or individuals. Permits may be issued to persons to perform maintenance on residential property, providing the owner of the residential property has given their written consent and that is produced and verified as to the owner of record. The owner shall be responsible for the cost of a Fire Department response caused by the maintenance person as a result of an escape burn in violation of the rules of the burn permit on behalf of the maintenance person. Residential burn permits shall be issued for parcels containing one- and two-family residences, for which an address has been issued by the Town of Paradise, and only for the purpose of maintenance of vegetation growth on the parcel. Garbage, rubbish, demolition, construction debris, lumber, painted or treated lumber, plywood, particle board, petroleum waste, tires, plastics, cloth or other similar smoke producing materials are strictly prohibited from being burned. All requirements provided for on the burn permit must be followed at all times Burn bans shall be strictly adhered to. 60
Failure to follow the burn ban restrictions may result in the requirements of Section 109.3 as amended to apply and any emergency response cost recovery.
Land Clearing Permits: Land clearing permits are issued for a specific timeframe to coincide with the time when open, outdoor burning is permitted and may be suspended, restricted, or prohibited as determined by the Fire Chief. Land clearing permits expire when seasonal burn bans go into effect in the late spring of each year and shall be null and void. Persons burning on the property for which a permit is issued shall be responsible for following all of the requirements of that permit until the permit has expired or is revoked. The Fire Department may revoke the permit at any time due to unsafe conditions, practices, or violations of the permit. Burning of wood waste from trees, vines, or bushes on property being developed for commercial or residential purposes, may be disposed of by open outdoor fires on the property where it was grown, pursuant to the provisions of section 41802-41805 of the California Health and Safety Code and in compliance with the conditions of Butte County Air Quality Management District Rule 300, and authorized by the Town of Paradise Fire Department. Permits are required by both agencies prior to burning. All burning times must be strictly adhered to otherwise it may require another method of disposal. The land clearing burn site must be determined and inspected prior to releasing the permit by the Paradise Fire Department. This site must be the only site authorized to burn once the permit is issued. Any changes in site location will require additional inspections and fees. The owner shall be responsible for the cost of a Fire Department response caused by the maintenance person as a result of an escape burn in violation of the rules of the burn permit on behalf of the maintenance person. Garbage, rubbish, demolition, construction debris, lumber, painted or treated lumber, plywood, particle board, petroleum waste, tires, plastics, cloth or other similar smoke producing materials are strictly prohibited from being burned.
Fuel Reduction Permits: Fuel reduction permits are issued for parcels 2/3 acre or larger on an annual basis July 1 through June 30 may be suspended, restricted, or prohibited as determined by the Fire Chief. Fuel reduction permits expire when the seasonal burn ban goes into effect in the late spring of each year. Persons burning on the property for which the permit is issued shall be responsible for following all of the requirements of that permit as indicated until the permit expires or is revoked. The Fire Department may revoke the permit at any time due to unsafe burning conditions, practices, or violations of the permit. Burning of wood waste from trees, vines, or bushes on existing improved property, may be disposed of by open outdoor fires on the property where it was grown, pursuant to the provisions of section 41802-41805 of the California Health and Safety Code and in compliance with the conditions of Butte County Air Quality Management District Rule 300, and authorized by the Town of Paradise Fire Department. All burning times must be strictly adhered to otherwise it may require another method of disposal. The fuel reduction burn site must be determined and inspected prior to releasing the permit by the Paradise Fire Department. This site must be the only site authorized to burn once the permit is issued. Any changes in site location will require additional inspections and fees. The owner shall be responsible for the cost of a Fire Department response caused by the maintenance person as a result of an escape burn in violation of the rules of the burn permit on behalf of the maintenance person. Garbage, rubbish, demolition, construction debris, lumber, painted or treated lumber, plywood, particle board, petroleum waste, tires, plastics, cloth or other similar smoke producing materials are strictly prohibited from being burned.
Campfires/Bon Fires/Recreational Fires and Special Event Fires: Permits are required for these activities and a permit fee will be charged in accordance with the Master Fee schedule adopted by the Town Council. A minimum of 48 hours' notice is required for the inspection. Such activities shall be in strict conformance with the requirements provided for on the permit and the requirements within Section 307 of the California Fire Code.
Permits are issued on an annual basis to coincide with the time when open, outdoor burning is permitted, unless they are approved by the Fire Chief.
15.09.110 Chapter 3, Section 308.6.3, added.
Sky Lanterns or similar devices. The ignition and/or launching of a Sky Lantern or similar device is prohibited.
Exceptions: Upon approval of the fire code official, sky lanterns may be used as necessary for religious or cultural ceremonies providing that adequate safeguards have been taken as approved by the fire code official. Sky Lanterns 61
must be tethered in a safe manner to prevent them from leaving the area and must be constantly attended until extinguished.
15.09.120 Chapter 5, Section 503.2.1 Dimensions, amended.
Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 20 feet, exclusive of shoulders, except for approved security gates in accordance with Section 503.6, and an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 13 feet 6 inches. Exception: Residential driveways shall comply with Town of Paradise Road Standards.
15.09.130 Chapter 5, Section 503.2.3, Surface, amended.
Fire apparatus access roads shall be designed and maintained to support the imposed load of fire apparatus at 75,000 pounds and shall be surfaced so as to provide all-weather driving capabilities.
15.09.140 Chapter 5, Section 503.4.1, Roadway Design Features, added.
Roadway design features (speed bumps, speed humps, speed control dips, etc.) which may interfere with emergency apparatus responses shall not be installed on fire apparatus access roadways.
15.09.150 Chapter 5, Section 503.6, Gates, amended.
The installation of security gates across a fire apparatus access road shall be approved by the Fire Marshal. Where security gates are installed, they shall have an approved means of emergency operation. The emergency gates and emergency operation shall be maintained operational at all times. Electric gate operators are required when serving five or more residential lots, Assembly occupancies, Hazardous occupancies, Institutional occupancies, and Storage occupancies and shall be listed in accordance with UL 325. Gates intended for automatic operation shall be designed, constructed and installed to comply with the requirements of ASTM F-2200. Access keypads shall be provided that are coded with the fire department emergency access code as specified. Plans and specifications shall be submitted for review and approval by the Fire Prevention Bureau prior to installation.
15.09.160 Chapter 5, Section 505.3, Map/Directory, added.
A lighted directory map, meeting current Fire Department standards, shall be installed at each driveway entrance to a multiple unit residential project and mobile home parks, where the number of units in such projects exceeds
15. 15.09.170 Chapter 5, Section 507.1.2, Required Water Supply, added.
Group R Division 3 Occupancies (Residential one- and two-family dwellings, mobile homes, manufactured housing, or modular home) shall comply with the fire flow requirements of Appendix "B". Fire Flow may be reduced to 750 GPM at 20 PSI for two hours when the unit is fully protected in accordance with NFPA 13D and there are no exposures of other buildings within twenty (20) feet of each other; otherwise the minimum required water supply capability will be in accordance with Appendix "B". In no case shall the water supply capability be less than 1000 GPM at 20 PSI for two hours within the requirements found in Appendix "B".
The required water supply for a detached "U" occupancy accessory to a Residential one and two family dwelling is not required to meet the water supply requirements of Appendix "B" if the "U" occupancy is less than 1500 square feet and separated from the dwelling unit by a minimum of 20 feet. If both requirements cannot be met then the requirements of Appendix "B" will apply.
62
15.09.180 Chapter 5, Section 510.6.1 Testing and proof of compliance, added.
5. At the conclusion of the testing, a report, which shall verify compliance with Section 510.5.4, shall be submitted to the fire code official. In addition, one complete copy of the report shall be posted in the building, on the wall immediately adjacent to the Fire Alarm Control Panel.
15.09.190 Chapter 9, Section 901.4.2, Non-required Fire Protection Systems, amended.
Any fire protection system not required by this code or the California Building Code shall be allowed to be furnished for complete protection only provided such installed system meets the requirements of this code and the California Building Code.
15.09.200 Chapter 22, Section 2306.2.3, Aboveground Storage Tanks, amended.
The storage of class I, II, and III liquids in aboveground tanks outside of buildings is prohibited in all areas of the Town except in areas zoned as Industrial Services (I.S.).
Exception: The installation of approved listed above ground storage tanks shall be allowed in areas zoned for commercial purposes. Such tanks shall meet with State and County Environmental codes, and the California Fire and Building Code requirements. Aggregate quantities and type(s) of liquid(s) to be stored shall not exceed 2,000 gallons. Tanks shall be located outside of buildings and in accordance with the requirements of the California Fire and Building Codes. On those rare occasions when there may be need for additional tank capacity beyond the 2,000 gallons, the applicant can submit a written request to the Fire Marshal. The Fire Marshal, after evaluating the circumstances, shall have the authority to modify the conditions to the installation of such tanks. Above ground storage tanks used only for heating fuels to heating appliances in areas zoned residential shall meet the requirements of the California Fire Code and the Town of Paradise Administrative policy but in no case shall tanks exceed 250 gallons.
15.09.210 Chapter 56, Fireworks, is deleted, amended.
Refer to Paradise Municipal Code Title 8 Chapter 8.44 for prohibition on fireworks.
The storage of explosives and blasting agents is prohibited within the limits of the Town of Paradise, except for temporary storage between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. for use in connection with blasting operations approved by the Fire Marshal. This prohibition shall not apply to stock of small arms ammunition and supplies for retail or approved manufacturing facilities as outlined under the California Fire Code.
15.09.220 Appendix B, Section B105.2 Exception 1, Reduced Fire Flow, amended.
A reduction in required fire flow of 50 percent is allowed when the building is provided with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with section 903.1.1 or 903.3.1.2. The resulting fire flow shall not be less than 1,500 GPM at 20 PSI for prescribed hours provided for in Table B105.1.
15.09.230 Appendix D, Table D103.4, Requirements for Dead-End Access, amended.
Table D103.4, Requirements for Dead End Access and Turn Around requirements shall be used as a guide only. The Town of Paradise Fire Department Administrative Policy for turn-around requirements shall be complied with as though set forth in this amendment.
63
Chapter 15.10 2022 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE
(TITLE 24, PART 10)
15.10.010 Adoption.
The 2022 California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 10, California Existing Building Code, as published and adopted by the California Building Standards Commission is adopted by reference and incorporated herein as if fully set forth in this Chapter.
Chapter 15.11 2022 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE (TITLE 24, PART 11)
15.11.010 Adoption.
The 2022 California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 11, California Green Building Standards Code, including Appendices A4 and A5 as published and adopted by the California Building Standards Commission is adopted by reference and incorporated herein as if fully set forth in this Chapter.
Chapter 15.12 2022 CALIFORNIA ADMINISTRATIVE CODE (TITLE 24, PART 1)
15.12.010 Adoption.
The 2022 California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 1, California Administrative Code, as published and adopted by the California Building Standards Commission is adopted by reference and incorporated herein as if fully set forth in this Chapter.
Chapter 15.13 2022 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE (TITLE 24, PART 12)
15.13.010 Adoption.
The 2022 California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Part 12, California Referenced Standards Code, as published and adopted by the California Building Standards Commission is adopted by reference and incorporated herein as if fully set forth in this Chapter.
Chapter 15.14 SMALL RESIDENTIAL ROOFTOP SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
15.14.010 Purpose.
A. California Government Code Section 65850.5 provides that every city, county, or city and county shall adopt an ordinance that creates an expedited, streamlined permitting process for small residential rooftop solar energy systems.
B. California Government Code Section 65850.5 provides that in developing an expedited permitting process, the city, county, or city and county shall develop a checklist of all requirements with which small rooftop solar energy systems shall comply to be eligible for expedited review. The building official is hereby authorized and directed to develop such checklist.
64
15.14.020 Definitions.
A. "Small residential rooftop solar energy system" means all of the following:
1. A solar energy system that is no larger than ten (10) kilowatts alternating current nameplate rating or thirty (30) kilowatts thermal.
2. A solar energy system that conforms to all applicable state fire, structural, electrical, and other building codes as adopted or amended by the Town and Civil Code Section 714(c)(iii), as such section or subdivision may be amended, renumbered, or redesignated from time to time.
3. A solar energy system that is installed on a single or duplex family dwelling.
4. A solar panel or module array that does not exceed the maximum legal building height as defined by the authority having jurisdiction.
B. "Solar energy system" has the same meaning set forth in Civil Code Section 801.5(a)(1) and (2), as such section or subdivision may be amended, renumbered, or redesignated from time to time.
15.14.030 Review process.
A. The checklist shall be published on the Town's internet web site. An applicant may submit the permit application and associated documentation to the Town's building division in person or mailed together with any required permit processing and inspection fees.
B. Prior to submitting an application, the applicant shall:
1. Verify to the applicant's reasonable satisfaction through the use of standard engineering evaluation techniques that the support structure for the small residential rooftop solar energy system is stable and adequate to transfer all wind, seismic, and dead and live loads associated with the installation and the maintenance thereof; and
2. At the applicant's cost, verify to the applicant's reasonable satisfaction using standard electrical inspection techniques that the existing electrical system including existing line, load, ground and bonding wiring as well as main panel and subpanel sizes are adequately sized, based on the existing electrical system's current use, to carry all new photovoltaic electrical loads, C. For a small residential rooftop solar energy system eligible for expedited review, only one inspection shall be required, which shall be done in a timely manner. If a small residential rooftop solar energy system fails inspection, a subsequent inspection is authorized; however, the subsequent inspection need not conform to the requirements of this subsection.
D. An application that satisfies the information requirements in the checklist, as determined by the building official, shall be deemed complete. Upon receipt of an incomplete application, the building official shall issue a written correction notice detailing all deficiencies in the application and any additional information required to be eligible for expedited permit issuance.
E. Upon confirmation by the building official of the application and supporting documentation being complete and meeting the requirements of the checklist, the building official shall administratively approve the application and issue all required permits or authorizations. Such approval shall not include any necessary approval or permission by a local utility provider to connect the small residential rooftop energy system to the provider's electricity grid. The applicant is responsible for obtaining such approval or permission from the local utility provider.
65
Chapter 15.15 ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATIONS
15.15.010 Purpose.
This Chapter aims to promote and encourage the use of electric vehicles by creating an expedited, streamlined permitting process for electric vehicle charging stations while promoting public health and safety and preventing specific adverse impacts in the installation and use of such charging stations. This Chapter is also purposed to comply with California Government Code Section 65850.7.
15.15.20 Definitions.
A. "Electric vehicle charging station" or "charging station" means any level of electric vehicle supply equipment station that is designed and built-in compliance with Article 625 of the California Electrical Code, as it reads on the effective date of this Chapter, and delivers electricity from a source outside an electric vehicle into a plug-in electric vehicle.
B. "Specific, adverse impact" means a significant, quantifiable, direct, and unavoidable impact based on objective, identified, and written public health or safety standards, policies, or conditions as they existed on the date the application was deemed complete.
C. "Electronic submittal" means the utilization of one or more of the following:
1. Electronic mail or email.
2. The internet.
3. Facsimile.
15.15.030 Expedited Permitting Processes.
Consistent with Government Code Section 65850.7, the Building Official shall implement an expedited, streamlined permitting process for electric vehicle charging stations, and adopt a checklist of all requirements with which electric vehicle charging stations shall comply to be eligible for expedited review. The expedited streamlined permitting process and checklist may refer to the recommendations contained in the most current version of the "Plug-In Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Permitting Checklist" of the "Zero-Emission Vehicles in California:
Community Readiness Guidebook" as published by the Governor's Office of Planning and Research. The Town's adopted checklist shall be published on the Town's website.
A. Deems an application to install an E.V. charging station complete if the building official of the city, county, or city and county has not either deemed the application complete or written a correction notice detailing the deficiencies in the application within the following periods:
1. Five business days of the application being submitted to construct at least one and up to 25 charging stations at a single site.
2. Ten business days of the application being submitted to construct more than 25 charging stations at a single site.
B. Deems approved an application to install an E.V. charging station 20 business days after the application was deemed complete for an installation of up to 25 charging stations at a single site or 40 business days for an installation of more than 25 charging stations if all the following are valid:
66
1. The building official has not administratively approved or denied the application based on the requirements of AB 1236.
2. The building official has not found that the E.V. charging station could have a specific adverse impact on public health or safety or require the applicant to apply for a use permit.
3. An appeal has not been made to the planning commission of the Town.
15.15.040 Permit Application Processing.
A. Before submitting an application for processing, the applicant shall verify that installing an electric vehicle charging station will not have a specific, adverse impact on public health and safety and building occupants. Verification by the applicant includes but is not limited to: electrical system capacity and loads; electrical system wiring, bonding, and overcurrent protection; building infrastructure affected by charging station equipment and associated conduits; areas of charging station equipment and vehicle parking.
B. A permit application that satisfies the information requirements in the Town's adopted checklist shall be deemed complete and be promptly processed. Upon confirmation by the Building Official that the permit application and supporting documents meet the requirements of the Town adopted checklist and are consistent with all applicable laws and health and safety standards, the Building Official shall, consistent with Government Code Section 65850.7, approve the application and issue all necessary permits. Such approval does not authorize an applicant to energize or utilize the electric vehicle charging station until the Town grants approval. If the Building Official determines that the permit application is incomplete, they shall issue a written correction notice to the applicant detailing all deficiencies in the application and any additional information required to be eligible for expedited permit issuance.
C. Consistent with Government Code Section 65850.7, the Building Official shall allow for the electronic submittal of permit applications covered by this Ordinance and associated supporting documentation. In accepting such permit applications, the Building Official shall also accept electronic signatures on all forms, applications, and other documentation in place of a wet signature by any applicant.
15.15.050 Technical Review.
A. This Ordinance intends to encourage the installation of electric vehicle charging stations by removing obstacles to permitting charging stations so long as the action does not supersede the Building Official's authority to address higher-priority life-safety situations. If the Building Official makes a finding based on substantial evidence that the electric vehicle charging station could have a specific adverse impact on public health or safety, as defined in this Chapter, the Town may require the applicant to apply for a use permit.
B. In the technical review of a charging station, consistent with Government Code Section 65850.7, the Building Official shall not condition the approval for any electric vehicle charging station permit on the approval of such a system by an association, as that term is defined by Civil Code Section 4080. 67
15.15.060 Electric Vehicle Charging Station Installation Requirements.
A. Electric vehicle charging station equipment shall meet the requirements of the California Electrical Code, the Society of Automotive Engineers, the National Electrical Manufacturers Association, and accredited testing laboratories such as Underwriters Laboratories, and rules of the Public Utilities Commission or a Municipal Electric Utility Company regarding safety and reliability.
B. Installation of electric vehicle charging stations and associated wiring, bonding, disconnecting means, and overcurrent protective devices shall meet the requirements of Article 625 and all applicable provisions of the California Electrical Code.
C. Installation of electric vehicle charging stations shall be incorporated into the load calculations of all new or existing electrical services and shall meet the requirements of the California Electrical Code. Electric vehicle charging equipment shall be considered a continuous load.
D. Anchorage of either floor-mounted or wall-mounted electric vehicle charging stations shall meet the requirements of the California Building or Residential Code as applicable per occupancy and the manufacturer's installation instructions provisions. Mounting of charging stations shall not adversely affect building elements.
SECTION 2. Pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines section 15308 this Ordinance is exempt from CEQA in that it is a Class 8 categorical exemption for actions taken by a regulatory agency to establish procedures for the protection of the environment.
SECTION 3. This Ordinance shall take effect on January 1, 2023. Before the expiration of fifteen (15) days after its passage, this Ordinance or a summary thereof shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation published and circulated within the Town of Paradise along with the names of the members of the Town Council of Paradise voting for and against same. 68
PASSED AND ADOPTED BY THE Town Council of the Town of Paradise, County of Butte, State of California, on this ___ day of ______2022, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
_______________________________
Steve Crowder, Mayor
ATTEST:
__________________________________
Dina Volenski, CMC, Town Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
___________________________________
Scott E. Huber, Town Attorney
69 Town of Paradise
Community Development Department
Building Resiliency Center
6295 Skyway
Paradise, CA 95969
(530) 872-6291 x411
Working together to rebuild a thriving community.
RESIDENTIAL AND NON-RESIDENTIAL
CHECKLIST FOR PERMITTING ELECTRIC VEHICLES
AND ELECTRIC VEHICLE SERVICE EQUIPMENT (EVSE)
Job Address: Permit No.
☐ Single-Family ☐ Multi-Family (Apartment) ☐ Multi-Family (Condominium) ☐ Commercial (Single Business) ☐ Commercial (Multi-Businesses) ☐ Mixed-Use ☐ Public Right-of-Way
Location and Number of EVSE to be Installed:
Garage ______ Parking Level(s) _____ Parking Lot _____ Street Curb _____ Please complete the following information related to permitting and installation of Electric Vehicle Service Equipment (EVSE) as a supplement to the application for a building permit. This checklist contains the technical aspects of EVSE installations and is intended to help expedite permitting and use for electric vehicle charging.
Upon this checklist being deemed complete, a permit shall be issued to the applicant. However, if it is determined that the installation might have a specific adverse impact on public health or safety, additional verification will be required before a permit can be issued.
This checklist substantially follows the “Plug-In Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Permitting Checklist” contained in the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research “Zero Emission Vehicles in California:
Community Readiness Guidebook” and is purposed to augment the guidebook’s checklist. 70 Town of Paradise
Community Development Department
Building Resiliency Center
6295 Skyway
Paradise, CA 95969
(530) 872-6291 x411
Working together to rebuild a thriving community.
Applicant Name:
Applicant Phone & email:
Contractor Name: License Number & Type:
Contractor Phone & email:
Owner Name:
Owner Phone & email:
EVSE Charging Level: ☐ Level 1 (120V) ☐ Level 2 (240V) ☐ Level 3 (480V)
Maximum Rating (Nameplate) of EV Service Equipment = ___________ kW Voltage EVSE = ______ V Manufacturer of EVSE: ___________________________ Mounting of EVSE: ☐ Wall Mount ☐ Pole Pedestal Mount ☐ Other _____________ System Voltage:
☐ 120/240V, 1ϕ, 3W ☐ 120/208V, 3ϕ, 4W ☐ 120/240V, 3ϕ, 4W ☐ 277/480V, 3ϕ, 4W ☐ Other ________________
Rating of Existing Main Electrical Service Equipment = __________ Amperes Rating of Circuit for EVSE: __________ Amps / __________ Poles 71 Town of Paradise
Community Development Department
Building Resiliency Center
6295 Skyway
Paradise, CA 95969
(530) 872-6291 x411
Working together to rebuild a thriving community.
AIC Rating of EVSE Circuit Breaker (if not Single Family, 400A) = __________ A.I.C. (or verify with Inspector in the field)
Specify Either the Connected, Calculated or Documented Demand Load of the Existing Panel:
Connected Load of Existing Panel Supplying EVSE = __________ Amps Calculated Load of Existing Panel Supplying EVSE = __________ Amps Demand Load of Existing Panel or Service Supplying EVSE = _________ Amps (Provide Demand Load Reading from Electric Utility)
Total Load (Existing plus EVSE Load) = __________ Amps
For Single Family Dwellings, if the Existing Load is not known by any of the above methods, then the Calculated Load may be estimated using the “Single-Family Residential Permitting Application Example” in the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research “Zero Emission Vehicles in California: Community Readiness Guidebook” https://www.opr.ca.gov
EVSE Rating __________ Amps x 1.25 = __________ Amps = Minimum Ampacity of EVSE Conductor = # __________ AWG
72 Town of Paradise
Community Development Department
Building Resiliency Center
6295 Skyway
Paradise, CA 95969
(530) 872-6291 x411
Working together to rebuild a thriving community.
For Single-Family: Size of Existing Service Conductors = # __________ AWG or kcmil - or -: Size of Existing Feeder Conductor
Supplying EVSE Panel = # __________ AWG or kcmil
(or Verify with Inspector in the field)
I now acknowledge that the information presented is an accurate and correct representation of existing conditions at the job site and that any causes for concern regarding life-safety verifications may require further substantiation.
Signature of Permit Applicant: ____________________ Date: _______________ 73 Town of Paradise
Council Agenda Summary
Date: November 7, 2022
Agenda Item: 2(f)
ORIGINATED BY: Ross Gilb, Finance Director/Town Treasurer REVIEWED BY: Kevin Phillips, Town Manager
SUBJECT: Quarterly Investment Report
COUNCIL ACTION REQUESTED:
Review and file the 1st Quarter Investment Report for the Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2023.
Background:
Attached is the report on the Town’s cash and investments for the quarter ended September 30, 2022.
A US Bank checking account is currently being used for payroll, accounts payable and other operating purposes. Most accounts payable disbursements are drawn through checks, and most payroll disbursements are processed through direct deposit. Deposits are fully collateralized. With COVID-19 and the impacts to the economy, the credit rate is currently less than 0.01%.
The Town received a $5 million cash advance from CalOES in December 2018 for projects and restoration that will be funded through FEMA’s public assistance grant program. As FEMA eligible expenses and/or projects are completed, funds are transferred to the Town operating checking account to fund those activities. The remaining advance funds are required to be held in a noninterest-bearing account. A US Bank non-interest-bearing checking account was established to track the funds. As of September 30, 2022, the remaining funds yet to be drawn upon was $1,672,356. Additional funds are expected to be received into this account during the following fiscal year as the Town secures additional reimbursement for ongoing FEMA public assistance grants.
The Town has historically primarily utilized the State of California managed Local Agency Investment Fund (LAIF) for investment of General Fund cash in excess of immediately needed operating capital. LAIF provides for same day liquidity as funds can be transferred electronically through computer authorization between LAIF and the Town checking account. LAIF has also provided historically competitive yields, with an average return of 1.35% for the quarter ended September 30, 2022. LAIF has been a great investment option for the Town’s General Fund short term reserves.
To provide additional opportunity for asset diversification, during the quarter ended September 30, 2022, the Town began utilizing the California Cooperative Liquid Assets Securities System (California CLASS) in conjunction with the aforementioned investment accounts to hold shortterm reserves. 74 California CLASS is a joint exercise of powers entity authorized under Section 6509.7, California Government Code. California CLASS is a pooled investment option that was created via a joint exercise of powers agreement (JPA Agreement) by and among California public agencies.
California CLASS provides the Town with a convenient method for investing in high-quality, shortto medium-term securities carefully selected to optimize interest earnings while maximizing safety and liquidity. The California CLASS Prime fund has provided the Town with an opportunity to strengthen and diversify its cash management programs in accordance with the safety, liquidity, and yield hierarchy that governs the investment of public funds. During the first quarter of the fiscal year, CLASS has provided a very competitive yield, with an average return of 2.14% for the quarter ended September 30, 2022.
In July 2020, the Town received a net settlement from PG&E related to the 2018 Camp Fire in the amount of $219,187,262. Since that time, the Town continues to utilize two investment vehicles to manage these funds. Securities purchases are held in a custodial account with US Bank. The Town has contracted with Meeder Investments to assist with management of these funds. Excess funds that are not invested in specific securities are held in the State of California managed Local Agency Investment Fund (LAIF). These funds are held separate from the Town’s General Fund LAIF account. Future use of these funds continues to be evaluated through a longterm fiscal sustainability model. Based on current rebuild rates and revenue growth trends, at this time it is expected that at least 80% of the total fund balance will be required to be utilized for long-term revenue backfill to ensure continued fiscal sustainability.
During the first quarter of the 2022-23 fiscal year, the Town transferred a total of $3,000,000 from the LAIF account to the Town’s US Bank operating account in order to fund operations for the quarter.
In June of 2011, the Town established an irrevocable trust to begin funding the future obligations associated with retiree health as required by GASB 45. The funds are being managed by SelfInsured Schools of California (SISC) and can only be used for the payment of retiree health benefits.
Financial Impact:
Total investment earnings for the quarter ended September 30, 2022 was $336,024, which trends in line with total budgeted investment earnings for the 2022-23 fiscal year in the amount of $1,100,000.
75 TOWN OF PARADISE
QUARTERLY SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS
For Quarter Ended September 30, 2022
Investment Type Yield Book Value Market Value Interest Earnings Yield Book Value Market Value Net Change US Bank Checking 0.00% 2,945,582.69 2,945,582.69 - 0.00% 3,916,053.04 3,916,053.04 (970,470.35) US Bank - Cal OES Advance Checking 0.00% 1,672,356.86 1,672,356.86 - 0.00% 1,672,356.86 1,672,356.86 - Local Agency Investment Fund (LAIF) (General Fund) Savings 1.35% 3,283,498.59 3,220,327.24 * 11,172.54 0.75% 3,277,362.68 3,235,167.99 (14,840.76) Local Agency Investment Fund (LAIF) (PG&E Settlement Fund) Savings 1.35% 5,404,571.20 5,300,592.45 * 33,954.45 0.75% 15,374,224.95 15,176,288.17 (9,875,695.72) California CLASS Prime Fund Savings 2.14% 7,021,420.85 7,020,309.64 ** 21,420.85 N/A - - 7,020,309.64 US Bank Custodial Investment Account Various**** 1.02% 199,845,464.82 184,132,633.48 *** 269,476.36 0.67% 199,597,388.36 187,002,466.05 (2,869,832.57) SISC GASB 45 Trust B Various 0.00% 283,844.18 283,844.18 - 0.51% 283,844.18 283,844.18 - Fiscal Agents & Petty Cash Other 0.00% 1,350.00 1,350.00 - 0.00% 1,350.00 1,350.00 - Totals 220,458,089.19 204,576,996.54 336,024.20 224,122,580.07 211,287,526.29 (6,710,529.76) Total Quarterly Earnings on Accrual Basis 336,024.20
Year-to-Date Earnings (July 1st - June 30th) 336,024.20 * Market Value determined by LAIF
** Market Value determined by California CLASS Prime Fund *** Market Value determined by US Bank
**** Detail investment type listing attached
For Quarter Ended September 30, 2022 For Quarter Ended June 30, 2022 In compliance with the California Code Section 53646; the Treasurer of the Town of Paradise herby certifies that sufficient investment liquidity and anticipated revenues are available to meet the Town's budgeted expenditure requirements for the next six months.
Investments in the report meet the requirements of the Town of Paradise's adopted investment policy.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/ Ross Gilb Finance Director/Town Treasurer
76 Investment Type Total
LAIF (General) 3,220,327.24 $
LAIF (PGE Settlement Funds) 5,300,592.45
California CLASS Prime Fund 7,020,309.64
US Bank Bank Operations 2,945,582.69
US Bank Custodial Investment Fund 184,132,633.48
Cal OES Advance 1,672,356.86
GASB 45 Trust 283,844.18
Petty Cash 1,350.00
Grand Total 204,576,996.54 $
TOWN OF PARADISE
INVESTMENT BALANCES AT A GLANCE
For Quarter Ended September 30, 2022
77 $-
$50
$100
$150
$200
$250 Sep-17 Dec-17 Mar-18 Jun-18 Sep-18 Dec-18 Mar-19 Jun-19 Sep-19 Dec-19 Mar-20 Jun-20 Sep-20 Dec-20 Mar-21 Jun-21 Sep-21 Dec-21 Mar-22 Jun-22 Sep-22 Sep-17 Dec-17 Mar-18 Jun-18 Sep-18 Dec-18 Mar-19 Jun-19 Sep-19 Dec-19 Mar-20 Jun-20 Jun-21 Sep-21 Dec-21 Mar-22 Jun-22 Sep-22 Series1 1.68 3.66 4.80 5.19 1.91 8.42 12.89 22.67 20.13 20.67 22.86 22.64 231.93 227.87 223.35 213.75 211.30 204.58
TOWN OF PARADISE
Timeline of Investment Market Value Balances (in millions) From Fiscal Year 2017/18 to Fiscal Year 2022/23
78 6125 Memorial Drive, Dublin Ohio 43017 | 866-633-3371 | www.meederpublicfunds.com Page 2 of 27 Town of Paradise Operating Account PORTFOLIO SUMMARY As of September 30, 2022 79 6125 Memorial Drive, Dublin Ohio 43017 | 866-633-3371 | www.meederpublicfunds.com Page 10 of 27 Town of Paradise Operating Account POSITION STATEMENT As of September 30, 2022 80 6125 Memorial Drive, Dublin Ohio 43017 | 866-633-3371 | www.meederpublicfunds.com Page 11 of 27 Town of Paradise Operating Account POSITION STATEMENT As of September 30, 2022 81 6125 Memorial Drive, Dublin Ohio 43017 | 866-633-3371 | www.meederpublicfunds.com Page 12 of 27 Town of Paradise Operating Account POSITION STATEMENT As of September 30, 2022 82 6125 Memorial Drive, Dublin Ohio 43017 | 866-633-3371 | www.meederpublicfunds.com Page 13 of 27 Town of Paradise Operating Account POSITION STATEMENT As of September 30, 2022 83 6125 Memorial Drive, Dublin Ohio 43017 | 866-633-3371 | www.meederpublicfunds.com Page 14 of 27 Town of Paradise Operating Account POSITION STATEMENT As of September 30, 2022 84 6125 Memorial Drive, Dublin Ohio 43017 | 866-633-3371 | www.meederpublicfunds.com Page 15 of 27 Town of Paradise Operating Account POSITION STATEMENT As of September 30, 2022 85 6125 Memorial Drive, Dublin Ohio 43017 | 866-633-3371 | www.meederpublicfunds.com Page 16 of 27 Town of Paradise Operating Account POSITION STATEMENT As of September 30, 2022 86 6125 Memorial Drive, Dublin Ohio 43017 | 866-633-3371 | www.meederpublicfunds.com Page 17 of 27 Town of Paradise Operating Account POSITION STATEMENT As of September 30, 2022 87 6125 Memorial Drive, Dublin Ohio 43017 | 866-633-3371 | www.meederpublicfunds.com Page 18 of 27 Town of Paradise Operating Account POSITION STATEMENT As of September 30, 2022 88 6125 Memorial Drive, Dublin Ohio 43017 | 866-633-3371 | www.meederpublicfunds.com Page 19 of 27 Town of Paradise Operating Account POSITION STATEMENT As of September 30, 2022 89 Total 6125 Memorial Drive, Dublin Ohio 43017 | 866-633-3371 | www.meederpublicfunds.com Page 20 of 27 Town of Paradise Operating Account TRANSACTION STATEMENT As of September 30, 2022 90 250,000.00 250,000.00 100,000.00 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00 5,000,000.00 5,000,000.00 250,000.00 3,125,000.00 969,500.00 974,250.00 1,398,270.00 6125 Memorial Drive, Dublin Ohio 43017 | 866-633-3371 | www.meederpublicfunds.com Page 21 of 27 Town of Paradise Operating Account TRANSACTION STATEMENT As of September 30, 2022 91 6125 Memorial Drive, Dublin Ohio 43017 | 866-633-3371 | www.meederpublicfunds.com Page 22 of 27 Town of Paradise Operating Account TRANSACTION STATEMENT As of September 30, 2022 92 6125 Memorial Drive, Dublin Ohio 43017 | 866-633-3371 | www.meederpublicfunds.com Page 23 of 27 Town of Paradise Operating Account TRANSACTION STATEMENT As of September 30, 2022 93 6125 Memorial Drive, Dublin Ohio 43017 | 866-633-3371 | www.meederpublicfunds.com Page 24 of 27 Town of Paradise Operating Account TRANSACTION STATEMENT As of September 30, 2022 94 6125 Memorial Drive, Dublin Ohio 43017 | 866-633-3371 | www.meederpublicfunds.com Page 25 of 27 Town of Paradise Operating Account TRANSACTION STATEMENT As of September 30, 2022 95 6125 Memorial Drive, Dublin Ohio 43017 | 866-633-3371 | www.meederpublicfunds.com Page 26 of 27 Town of Paradise Operating Account TRANSACTION STATEMENT As of September 30, 2022 96 Town of Paradise
Council Agenda Summary
Date: November 7, 2022
Agenda Item: 5(a)
ORIGINATED BY: Kate Anderson, Housing Program Manager
REVIEWED BY: Kevin Phillips, Town Manager
SUBJECT: Housing Recovery Update
LONG TERM
RECOVERY PLAN:
No
COUNCIL ACTION REQUESTED:
1. Conduct the duly noticed and scheduled public hearing to solicit comments and/or suggestions regarding the Draft 2019-2023 Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) Plan; and,
2. Adopt the Draft 2019-2023 Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) Plan as submitted; OR
3. Revise the Draft 2019-2023 Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) Plan as submitted; AND
4. Adopt Resolution No. 2022-____ “A Resolution of the Town Council of the Town of Paradise Authorizing the Application and Adopting The PLHA Plan For The Permanent Local Housing Allocation Program”. (ROLL CALL VOTE) Background:
The Town of Paradise has been a U.S. Department of Housing and Development (HUD) entitlement city since 1994. HUD awards grants to entitlement communities to carry out a wide range of community development activities directed toward housing, public infrastructure and improvements, economic development, and public services. In addition, the State of California awards grants to entitlement communities, as well.
The California Department of Housing and Community Development (Department or HCD) announced the release of the 2022 Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) Program’s Formula Component Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for approximately $335 million in calendar year 2021 funds in addition to the $131 million in calendar year 2019 and calendar year 2020 funds for Entitlement and NonEntitlement Local governments. This NOFA is funded from moneys deposited in the Building Homes and Jobs Trust Fund (Fund) in calendar year 2021 and includes any remaining unawarded funds not requested for calendar years 2019 and 2020.
Funding for this NOFA is provided pursuant to Senate Bill 2 (SB 2) (Chapter 364, Statutes of 2017). SB 2 established the Fund and authorizes the Department to allocate 70 percent of moneys collected and deposited in the Fund, beginning in calendar year 2019, to Local governments for eligible housing and homelessness activities. The intent of the bill is to provide a permanent, on-going source of funding to Local governments for housing-related projects and programs that assist in addressing the unmet housing needs of their local communities.
97 Analysis:
The Town of Paradise is eligible to receive a PLHA grant, in an amount not to exceed the five-year estimate of the PLHA formula allocations, as stated in Appendix C of the current NOFA $561,576 in accordance with all applicable rules and laws.
An eligible activity for this funding includes matching portions of funds placed into Local or Regional Housing Trust Funds. By doing so, the local or regional housing trust can use these funds to attract additional funding for projects serving other eligible activities under this PLHA grant, such as 1) the predevelopment and development of multifamily, residential live-work, rental housing that is affordable to extremely-low to moderate-income households, including necessary operating subsidies, 2) the predevelopment and development of affordable rental and ownership housing, including Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) that meet the needs of a growing workforce earning up to 120% AMI. ADUs shall be available for occupancy for a term of no less than 30 days, and 3) assisting persons who are experiencing or at-risk of homelessness by providing new construction of permanent housing.
Financial Impact:
The impact of this agenda item is positive, as it will result in the award of approximately $561,576 in state funds and the opportunity to significantly increase that amount to be used in the production of affordable housing in our community. There is no impact to the General Fund. 98 99
100
101
102
103
104
TOWN OF PARADISE
RESOLUTION NO. 22-____
A RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF PARADISE
AUTHORIZING THE APPLICATION AND ADOPTING THE PLHA PLAN FOR THE PERMANENT
LOCAL HOUSING ALLOCATION PROGRAM
A majority of the council members of the Town of Paradise (“Applicant”) hereby consents to, adopts, and ratifies the following resolution:
WHEREAS, the Department is authorized to provide up to $335 million under the SB 2 Permanent Local Housing Allocation Program Formula Component from the Building Homes and Jobs Trust Fund for assistance to Cities and Counties (as described in Health and Safety Code section 50470 et seq. (Chapter 364, Statutes of 2017 (SB 2)); WHEREAS, the State of California (the “State”), Department of Housing and Community Development (“Department”) issued a Notice of Funding Availability (“NOFA”) dated 8/17/2022 under the Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) Program; WHEREAS, the Town of Paradise is an eligible Local government who has applied for program funds to administer one or more eligible activities, or a Local or Regional Housing Trust Fund to whom an eligible Local government delegated its PLHA formula allocation; and
WHEREAS, the Department may approve funding allocations for PLHA Program, subject to the terms and conditions of the Guidelines, NOFA, Program requirements, the Standard Agreement, and other contracts between the Department and PLHA grant recipients;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF PARADISE AS FOLLOWS:
1. If Applicant receives a grant of PLHA funds from the Department pursuant to the above referenced PLHA NOFA, it represents and certifies that it will use all such funds in a manner consistent and in compliance with all applicable state and federal statutes, rules, regulations, and laws, including without limitation all rules and laws regarding the PLHA Program, as well as any and all contracts Applicant may have with the Department.
2. Applicant is hereby authorized and directed to receive a PLHA grant, in an amount not to exceed the five-year estimate of the PLHA formula allocations, as stated in Appendix C of the current NOFA $561,576 in accordance with all applicable rules and laws.
3. Applicant hereby agrees to use the PLHA funds only for eligible activities as approved by the Department and in accordance with all Program requirements, Guidelines, other rules and laws, as well as in a manner consistent and in 105
compliance with the Standard Agreement, its Application, and other contracts between the Applicant and the Department.
4. Pursuant to Section 302(c)(4) of the Guidelines, Applicant’s PLHA Plan for the 2019-2023 Allocations is attached to this resolution, and Applicant hereby adopts this PLHA Plan and certifies compliance with all public notice, public comment, and public hearing requirements in accordance with the Guidelines.
5. Applicant certifies that it has or will subgrant some or all of its PLHA funds to another entity or entities. Pursuant to Guidelines Section 302(c)(3), “entity” means a housing developer or program operator.
6. Applicant certifies that, if funds are used for the acquisition, construction or rehabilitation of for-sale housing projects or units within for-sale housing projects, the grantee shall record a deed restriction against the property that will ensure compliance with one of the requirements stated in Guidelines Section 302(c)(6)(A),(B) and (C).
7. Applicant certifies that, if funds are used for the development of an Affordable Rental Housing Development, the Local government shall make PLHA assistance in the form of a low-interest, deferred loan to the Sponsor of the Project, and such loan shall be evidenced through a Promissory Note secured by a Deed of Trust and a Regulatory Agreement shall restrict occupancy and rents in accordance with a Local government-approved underwriting of the Project for a term of at least 55 years.
8. Applicant shall be subject to the terms and conditions as specified in the Standard Agreement, the PLHA Program Guidelines, and any other applicable SB 2 guidelines published by the Department.
9. Mayor or Town Manager are authorized to execute the PLHA Program Application, the PLHA Standard Agreement and any subsequent amendments or modifications thereto, as well as any other documents which are related to the Program or the PLHA grant awarded to Applicant, as the Department may deem appropriate
PASSED AND ADOPTED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF PARADISE THIS 7TH DAY OF NOVEMBER, 2022, BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: _____
NOES: _____
ABSENT: _____
NOT VOTING: _____
106
_________________________________
Scott Crowder, Mayor
ATTEST:
Dina Volenski, Town Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Scott E. Huber, Town Attorney
107
CERTIFICATE OF THE ATTESTING OFFICER
The undersigned, Officer of the Town of Paradise, Town Clerk, Dina Volenski, does hereby attest and certify that the attached Resolution is a true, full and correct copy of a resolution duly adopted at a meeting of the Town Council, Town of Paradise which was duly convened and held on the date stated thereon, and that said document has not been amended, modified, repealed or rescinded since its date of adoption and is in full force and effect as of the date hereof.
ATTEST: _______________________________________
Signature of Attesting Officer
Dina Volenski, Town Clerk
108
Town of Paradise
Council Agenda Summary
Date: November 7, 2022
Agenda Item: 5(b)
ORIGINATED BY: Marc Mattox, Public Works Director &Town Engineer Ashley Stanley, Engineering Division Manager
REVIEWED BY: Kevin Phillips, Town Manager
SUBJECT: Paradise Sewer Project – Certification of Final Programmatic Environmental Impact Report (PEIR) with CEQA findings for Significant Environmental Impacts, adoption of a Mitigation and Monitoring Plan and other related findings.
LONG TERM
RECOVERY PLAN:
Yes, Tier 1 “Sewer”
COUNCIL ACTION REQUESTED:
Upon conclusion of the public hearing of the Paradise Sewer Project, consisting of the design, right of way acquisition and construction for the core collection system, extended collection system, export pipeline and connection to the City of Chico Water Pollution Control Plant, consider a resolution, or an alternative action:
a) Introduce Town of Paradise Resolution No. 22-_________, “A Resolution of the Town Council of the Town of Paradise Certifying the Final Programmatic Environmental Impact Report with CEQA findings for significant environmental impacts, and adoption of Mitigation, Monitoring and Reporting Program for the Paradise Sewer Project; and b) Adoption of the Final Programmatic Environmental Impact Report (Final PEIR) for use in conjunction with the Paradise Sewer Project, or other action; and c) Direct staff to continue the next steps in the Paradise Sewer Project implementation including Federal environmental reviews and processes, Design and Right of Way phases, including solicitation of Staff Augmentation and Design Build contract(s) in compliance with secured and potential funding sources’ policies and procedures; or d) Provide alternative action (ROLL CALL VOTE)
Background:
Since its incorporation in 1979, the Town has sought a formal wastewater treatment solution for the community, with service for commercial and densely populated residential areas being a priority. Failed and failing septic systems create public health and environmental concerns and have limited economic growth. Prior to the Camp Fire, which almost completely destroyed the town in 2018, Paradise was the largest unsewered community in California. The Town has prepared numerous studies to address its need for a centralized wastewater treatment solution, and in its most recent study, the Town identified a proposed sewer service area. The proposed sewer service area includes the Town’s commercial corridors, and as described in the 2017 feasibility study, it represented the area that had the most septic systems that had failed or were projected to fail by 2022.
109
The Proposed Project would consist of three primary components: Core Collection System, Export Pipeline System, and Extended Collection System. The Core Collection System would support the centralized businesses and housing in Town, including approximately 1,500 parcels along the Skyway, Clark Road, and Pearson Road corridors. The proposed Export Pipeline System would start at the southern end of the Core Collection System as a gravity sewer line and would continue southwest approximately 18 miles to the City of Chico for connection to the Chico Water Pollution Control Plant. Other than the Town of Paradise flow, no other connections will be allowed to the export pipeline. The Extended Collection System would be an extension of the Core Collection System that would allow collection of sewage from parcels outside the Core Collection System, but within the Town limits.
Analysis:
The Final Programmatic Environmental Impact Report (Final PEIR) assessed the potential environmental impacts of the proposed Project on the physical, human, and natural environment.
A wide variety of resource areas were studied to identify potential impacts, including aesthetics, agriculture and forestry resources, air quality and greenhouse gas emissions, biological resources, cultural resources, energy, geology and soils, hazards and hazardous materials, hydrology and water quality, land use and planning, noise, population and housing, public services, recreation, transportation, tribal cultural resources, utilities and service systems, wildfire, and additional topics as required by the CEQA Guidelines including significant irreversible environmental changes, growth inducement, cumulative impacts, and alternatives. Measures to avoid, minimize, and mitigate any potential adverse impacts were identified and evaluated in the Draft PEIR.
The Town published the required documents for availability, distribution, and comments on the Draft PEIR, including a 45-day public review and comment period (July 14, 5pm, to August 29, 2022) and held three public meetings (August 8 (6:00pm), August 10 (12:30 and 6:00 pm), 2022).
Responsible and trustee agencies, involved federal agencies, interest groups, and members of the public were invited to provide input on the Draft PEIR. Comments were submitted in person, at Town Hall and through www.paradisesewer.com. All input received was documented and addressed in the Final Programmatic Environmental Impact Report.
Financial Impact:
There are no financial impacts associated with this specific action requested. Project funding is addressed separately through various Council Actions and various funding sources.
Attachments:
The Final Programmatic Environmental Impact Report (Final PEIR), Mitigation and Monitoring Plan, and Findings are available for public inspection at Town of Paradise Town Hall, located at 5555 Skyway, Paradise, California, 95938 and www.paradisesewer.com.
Notice of Determination is included as an attachment and will be filed within three days of Town Council Certification of the Final PEIR.
110
1 Town of Paradise
Council Agenda Attachment
Date: November 7, 2022
Agenda Item: 5(b)
The Final Paradise Sewer PEIR may be viewed by visiting the link copied below:
https://paradisesewer.com/virtual-room/
or
A physical printed copy is also available for public viewing at Town Hall, Clerk’s Office at
5555 Skyway, Paradise.
111
00090006.1
TOWN OF PARADISE
RESOLUTION NO. 22-__________
A RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF PARADISE
CERTIFYING THE FINAL PROGRAMMATIC ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
REPORT WITH CEQA FINDINGS FOR SIGNIFICANT ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACTS, AND ADOPTION OF A MITIGATION, MONITORING AND REPORTING
PROGRAM FOR THE PARADISE SEWER PROJECT
WHEREAS, the Town has identified the Paradise Sewer Project as that consisting of the design, right of way acquisition and construction for the core collection system, extended collection system, export pipeline and connection to the Town of Chico Water Pollution Control Plant (as more fully described in this Programmatic Environmental Impact Report (PEIR; the “Project”) and
WHEREAS, on December 8, 2020, the Town voted unanimously to advance a regional approach for the Paradise Sewer Project by directing staff to perform a full Environmental Impact Report for the Project pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”); and WHEREAS, the Town is the lead agency for the Paradise Sewer Project PEIR pursuant to CEQA; and
WHEREAS, thereafter Town employees and consultants, acting as the Project team, have been actively involved in the preparation of the Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Report ("Draft PEIR”), and several methods were used to build awareness about the Project, the Notice of Preparation and the subsequent public comment period and scoping meetings; and WHEREAS, scoping meetings were conducted on May 13 and May 25, 2021 when materials were made available to the public and other public agencies and comments were solicited and obtained; and
WHEREAS, using the established Project website (www.paradisesewer.com) and the Town’s social media accounts (Facebook and YouTube), the Project team posted and updated key information regarding environmental review as well as initial project activities; and WHEREAS, additionally, the Project team submitted notices in local Paradise and Chico media publications, and conducted public and Town Council engagement meetings; and WHEREAS, on April 30, 2021, the Town filed a Notice of Preparation ("NOP") with the State Office of Planning and Research (“OPR") to determine the scope of environmental review for the Paradise Sewer Project; and
WHEREAS, the Town thereafter prepared a Draft PEIR (SCH No. 2021050008) for the Paradise Sewer Project; and
112
00090006.1
WHEREAS, on July 14, 2022, the Town filed the Notice of Completion ("NOC") informing OPR that the Town had completed the Draft PEIR, and recommending distribution of the Draft PEIR to certain state agencies for review.
WHEREAS, prior to circulating the Draft PEIR for public review, the Town distributed and published the Notice of Availability ("NOA") for the Draft PEIR to all interested groups, to organizations, and individuals; and posted on the Project website.
WHEREAS, the Draft PEIR was available for public review and comment for forty-five (45) days, between July 14, 2022 and August 29, 2022; and WHEREAS, noticed public meetings were held during the comment period on August 8 (in Chico) and August 10 (in Paradise); notices were sent out by: electronic notifications, legal noticing in paper, and website; and
WHEREAS, the draft PEIR was available at the following locations:
Town Clerk at Paradise Town Hall (5555 Skyway, Paradise) Butte County Library, Paradise Branch (5922 Clark Rd, Paradise) Terry Ashe Recreation Center (6626 Skyway, Paradise)
City Clerk at Chico City Hall (411 Main Street, Chico)
Butte County Library, Chico Branch (1108 Sherman Avenue, Chico) CARD Community Center (545 Vallombrosa Avenue, Chico)
Butte County Clerk (155 Nelson Avenue, Oroville)
WHEREAS, the Town received a total of 51 comments relating to the Paradise Sewer Project Draft PEIR during the public review period, including 11 by email and post, and 40 by use of the website comment link; and
WHEREAS, the Town has evaluated and responded to all of the comments received on the Draft PEIR, as well as those received outside of public review periods; and WHEREAS, the Town now has prepared the Final Programmatic Environmental Impact Report ("Final PEIR") for the Paradise Sewer Project, which incorporates the Draft PEIR, the written comments, the Town's responses to those written comments, and identifies five proposed text additions to the Draft PEIR; Final PEIR is attached and incorporated as Exhibit “A”; and WHEREAS, such additions to the Draft PEIR do not constitute new information but more clearly restate an existing requirement; and
WHEREAS, there were no deletions from the Draft PEIR; and WHEREAS, pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15091, the Town has prepared Findings regarding mitigation of the significant adverse environmental impacts that may result from approval and implementation of the Project ("CEQA Findings") which findings are attached and incorporated as Exhibit B; and
113
00090006.1
WHEREAS, pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15091 and 15097, the Town has prepared a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program ("MMRP") for mitigation measures imposed to avoid or mitigate such significant environmental impacts, which MMRP is attached and incorporated as Exhibit C; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15090, the Town Council shall review the Final PEIR and certify that the Final PEIR was prepared in compliance with CEQA; and
WHEREAS, on or about October 26, 2022 the Town gave notice of the public hearing to be held on November 7, 2022 to certify the Final EIR and adopt this Resolution and its attachments by posting on the Town website prior to the hearing; and WHEREAS, the Town Council has reviewed all documents, exhibits and testimony based upon its independent judgment and has heard all testimony for and against the certification of the Final PEIR.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Town Council resolves and certifies as follows:
1. The Recitals set out above are true and correct.
2. The Final PEIR has been completed in compliance with CEQA.
3. The Final PEIR was presented to the Town Council, which has reviewed and considered all of the information contained in it before taking action.
4. The Final PEIR reflects the Town Council’s independent judgment and analysis.
5. The Town Council hereby certifies the Final Programmatic Environmental Impact Report which is incorporated hereto as Exhibit A.
6. The Town Council hereby approves and adopts the CEQA Findings Regarding Significant Environmental Impacts which are attached and incorporated as Exhibit B.
7. The Town Council hereby approves and adopts the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program which is attached and incorporated as Exhibit C. These Mitigation Measures are not merely informational but constitute a binding set of obligationsforthe Town and responsible parties, which obligations will take effect upon adoption of this Resolution and implementation thereafter of the Paradise Sewer Project.
8. The Town Council further finds that there are no remaining significant and unavoidable impacts identified, as all potential impacts were able to be mitigated to a level of less than significant.
114
00090006.1
9. Location and Custodian of Documents and the Record of Proceedings The record of the Town’s decision concerning certification of the Final PEIR for the proposed project includes the following:
• Draft PEIR (July 14, 2022)
• Final PEIR (November 2, 2022)
• Appendices and Technical Memoranda to the Draft and Final PEIRs • All documents and other materials listed as references or incorporated by reference in the Draft PEIR and Final PEIR, including but not limited to the materials identified in the Chapter 7, References, of the Draft and Final PEIRs • All reports, applications, memoranda, maps, letters, and other documents prepared by the Town’s staff and consultants for the proposed Project • All notices issued by the Town to comply with CEQA, the CEQA Guidelines, or any other law governing the processing and approval of the Project or the Final PEIR • The Findings for the Project as adopted by the Town Council and all documents cited or referred to therein
• The Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program for the Project as adopted by the Town Council
• All documents or other materials submitted by interested people or public agencies in connection with the Project, Draft PEIR or the Final PEIR • Minutes, recordings, and verbatim transcripts, if any, of the public hearing to be held on November 7, 2022, concerning the Final PEIR and the proposed project • Any documentary or other evidence submitted to the Town at informational sessions, public meetings, and public hearings concerning the Final PEIR and the project
• Any other materials required to be in the record of proceedings by California Public Resources Code, Section 21167.6(e)
• Any other written materials relevant to the Town’s compliance with CEQA and its decision on the merits of the project, including documents that have been released for public review and copies of reports, studies, or other documents relied on in any environmental documentation for the project and either made available to the public during the public comment period or included in the Town’s files • All materials posted on ParadiseSewer.com up to the time of certification of the PEIR.
The custodian of the documents and other materials composing the administrative record of the Town’s decision concerning certification of the Final PEIR is the Town Clerk. The location of the administrative record is 5555 Skyway, Town Hall, Engineering Department, Paradise, California, 95969 (California Public Resources Code, Section 21081.6[a][2]).
10. Notice of Determination. Town staff is hereby directed to file a Notice of Determination at the Butte County, City of Chico and Town of Paradise Recorders’ Offices in the manner provided by law.
115
00090006.1
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Town Council of the Town of Paradise this 7th day of November 2022 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
NOT VOTING:
TOWN OF PARADISE
By___________________________
Steve Crowder, Mayor
ATTEST:
By:________________________
Dina Volenski, CMC, Town Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Office of the Town Attorney
By:___________________________
Scott Huber, Town Attorney
116
Paradise Sewer Project
Final Program
Environmental Impact Report
Paradise, California
November 3, 2022
117
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report
Page Intentionally Blank
118
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Contents
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report i
Contents
Contents ................................................................................................................................................... i Appendices ............................................................................................................................................. xi Terms and Abbreviations ....................................................................................................................... xii ES1 Executive Summary ..................................................................................................................... xix ES1.1 Project Background ........................................................................................................... xix ES1.2 Project Location ................................................................................................................ xxi ES1.3 Project Need and Objectives ........................................................................................... xxi ES1.4 Required Permits and Approvals .................................................................................. xxiii ES1.5 Proposed Project Components ...................................................................................... xxv ES1.5.1 Core Collection System................................................................................................... 26 ES1.5.2 Export Pipeline System ................................................................................................. xxix ES1.5.3 Extended Collection System ....................................................................................... xxxiii ES1.6 Proposed Schedule ....................................................................................................... xxxiii ES1.7 Proposed Staging, Traffic Management, and Access Points ........................................ xxxiv ES1.8 Proposed Operation and Maintenance ........................................................................ xxxvi ES1.9 Project Alternatives ...................................................................................................... xxxvi ES1.9.1 No Project Alternative ................................................................................................ xxxvii ES1.9.2 Entler Avenue Hybrid Alternative ............................................................................... xxxvii ES1.9.3 Crouch Avenue Alternative ........................................................................................ xxxvii ES1.9.4 Entler Avenue Hybrid and Crouch Avenue Alternative ............................................... xxxvii ES1.10 Environmental Impacts from the Proposed Project ..................................................... xxxvii ES1.11 Environmental Impacts from the Project Alternatives .......................................................... li ES1.12 Areas of Known Controversy ............................................................................................ lxi ES1.13 Issues to be Resolved ...................................................................................................... lxi ES1.14 Significant and Unavoidable Impacts ................................................................................ lxi ES1.15 Environmentally Superior Alternative ............................................................................... lxii
1. Introduction ......................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 CEQA Review and Decision-Making Process ..................................................................... 1
1.1.1 Overview .............................................................................................................. 1
1.1.2 Scope of this Program Environmental Impact Report ........................................... 2
1.2 Required Permits and Approvals ........................................................................................ 4
1.3 Agency Coordination and the Public Involvement Process ................................................. 5
1.3.1 Public Scoping ..................................................................................................... 5
1.3.2 Sewer Regionalization Project Advisory Committee Coordination ....................... 7
1.3.3 Stakeholder Engagement ..................................................................................... 7
1.3.4 Tribal Consultation ............................................................................................... 8
1.3.5 Draft Environmental Impact Report ...................................................................... 9
1.3.6 Final Program Environmental Impact Report ...................................................... 10
1.4 Areas of Known Controversy ............................................................................................ 10 119
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Contents
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report ii
1.5 Issues to be Resolved ....................................................................................................... 10
1.6 Organization of the Environmental Impact Report ............................................................. 12
2. Project Description ............................................................................................................ 15
2.1 Project Location ................................................................................................................ 16
2.2 Project Background ........................................................................................................... 18
2.2.1 Pre-Fire History .................................................................................................. 18
2.2.2 Post-Fire History ................................................................................................ 22
2.3 Project Need and Objectives ............................................................................................. 23
2.3.1 Project Need ...................................................................................................... 23
2.3.2 Project Objectives and Goals ............................................................................. 25
2.4 Existing Wastewater Treatment Facilities ......................................................................... 27
2.4.1 Town of Paradise ............................................................................................... 27
2.4.2 Chico Water Pollution Control Plant ................................................................... 28
2.5 Proposed Project Components ......................................................................................... 29
2.5.1 Core Collection System ...................................................................................... 30
2.5.2 Export Pipeline System ...................................................................................... 38
2.5.3 Extended Collection System .............................................................................. 58
2.6 Proposed Schedule .......................................................................................................... 59
2.7 Proposed Staging, Traffic Management, and Access Points ............................................. 61
2.7.1 Potential Staging Areas ...................................................................................... 61
2.7.2 Traffic Management and Temporary Construction Road Closures ..................... 61
2.7.3 Access and Truck Routes .................................................................................. 63
2.8 Proposed Operation and Maintenance .............................................................................. 63
2.9 Energy Consumption during Operations ........................................................................... 67
2.9.1 Energy Use of the Core Collection System ........................................................ 67
2.9.2 Energy Use at Chico WPCP ............................................................................... 68
3. Environmental Impact Analysis ......................................................................................... 69
3.1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................... 69
3.1.1 Regional Environmental Setting ......................................................................... 69
3.1.2 Baseline ............................................................................................................. 70
3.1.3 Structure of the Environmental Impact Analysis ................................................. 70
3.1.4 General Methodology for Assessing Impacts ..................................................... 71
3.1.5 Impacts Found to Be Not Significant .................................................................. 73
3.2 Agriculture and Forestry Resources .................................................................................. 75
3.2.1 Environmental Setting ........................................................................................ 75
3.2.2 Regulatory Framework ....................................................................................... 76
3.2.3 Method of Analysis ............................................................................................. 81
3.2.4 Impact Analysis .................................................................................................. 82
3.2.5 Impacts Summary .............................................................................................. 85
3.2.6 References ......................................................................................................... 86
3.3 Air Quality ......................................................................................................................... 87
3.3.1 Environmental Setting ........................................................................................ 87
3.3.2 Regulatory Framework ....................................................................................... 90 120
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Contents
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report iii
3.3.3 Method of Analysis ............................................................................................. 97
3.3.4 Impact Analysis .................................................................................................. 98
3.3.5 Impacts Summary ............................................................................................ 104
3.3.6 References ....................................................................................................... 104
3.4 Biological Resources ...................................................................................................... 106
3.4.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................... 106
3.4.2 Regulatory Framework ..................................................................................... 116
3.4.3 Method of Analysis ........................................................................................... 123
3.4.4 Impact Analysis ................................................................................................ 124
3.4.5 Impacts Summary ............................................................................................ 140
3.4.6 References ....................................................................................................... 142
3.5 Cultural Resources ......................................................................................................... 145
3.5.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................... 145
3.5.2 Regulatory Framework ..................................................................................... 151
3.5.3 Method of Analysis ........................................................................................... 158
3.5.4 Impact Analysis ................................................................................................ 159
3.5.5 Impacts Summary ............................................................................................ 164
3.5.6 References ....................................................................................................... 164
3.6 Energy ............................................................................................................................ 166
3.6.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................... 166
3.6.2 Regulatory Framework ..................................................................................... 167
3.6.3 Method of Analysis ........................................................................................... 171
3.6.4 Impact Analysis ................................................................................................ 172
3.6.5 Impacts Summary ............................................................................................ 174
3.6.6 References ....................................................................................................... 174
3.7 Geology, Soils, and Paleontological Resources .............................................................. 176
3.7.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................... 176
3.7.2 Regulatory Framework ..................................................................................... 180
3.7.3 Method of Analysis ........................................................................................... 183
3.7.4 Impact Analysis ................................................................................................ 185
3.7.5 Impacts Summary ............................................................................................ 193
3.7.6 References ....................................................................................................... 194
3.8 Greenhouse Gas Emissions ........................................................................................... 196
3.8.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................... 196
3.8.2 Regulatory Framework ..................................................................................... 197
3.8.3 Method of Analysis ........................................................................................... 200
3.8.4 Impact Analysis ................................................................................................ 202
3.8.5 Impacts Summary ............................................................................................ 204
3.8.6 References ....................................................................................................... 205
3.9 Hazards and Hazardous Materials .................................................................................. 207
3.9.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................... 207
3.9.2 Regulatory Framework ..................................................................................... 208
3.9.3 Method of Analysis ........................................................................................... 215 121
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Contents
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report iv
3.9.4 Impact Analysis ................................................................................................ 216
3.9.5 Impacts Summary ............................................................................................ 224
3.9.6 References ....................................................................................................... 225
3.10 Hydrology and Water Quality .......................................................................................... 227
3.10.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................... 227
3.10.2 Regulatory Framework ..................................................................................... 231
3.10.3 Method of Analysis ........................................................................................... 237
3.10.4 Impact Analysis ................................................................................................ 238
3.10.5 Impacts Summary ............................................................................................ 248
3.10.6 References ....................................................................................................... 249
3.11 Land Use and Planning ................................................................................................... 251
3.11.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................... 251
3.11.2 Regulatory Framework ..................................................................................... 254
3.11.3 Method of Analysis ........................................................................................... 256
3.11.4 Impact Analysis ................................................................................................ 257
3.11.5 Impacts Summary ............................................................................................ 262
3.11.6 References ....................................................................................................... 262
3.12 Noise and Groundborne Vibration ................................................................................... 264
3.12.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................... 264
3.12.2 Regulatory Framework ..................................................................................... 267
3.12.3 Method of Analysis ........................................................................................... 271
3.12.4 Impact Analysis ................................................................................................ 272
3.12.5 Impacts Summary ............................................................................................ 278
3.12.6 References ....................................................................................................... 278
3.13 Population and Housing .................................................................................................. 280
3.13.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................... 280
3.13.2 Regulatory Framework ..................................................................................... 283
3.13.3 Method of Analysis ........................................................................................... 285
3.13.4 Impact Analysis ................................................................................................ 286
3.13.5 Impacts Summary ............................................................................................ 288
3.13.6 References ....................................................................................................... 288
3.14 Public Services ............................................................................................................... 290
3.14.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................... 290
3.14.2 Regulatory Framework ..................................................................................... 297
3.14.3 Method of Analysis ........................................................................................... 299
3.14.4 Impact Analysis ................................................................................................ 300
3.14.5 Impacts Summary ............................................................................................ 304
3.14.6 References ....................................................................................................... 305
3.15 Recreation ...................................................................................................................... 308
3.15.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................... 308
3.15.2 Regulatory Framework ..................................................................................... 311
3.15.3 Method of Analysis ........................................................................................... 312
3.15.4 Impact Analysis ................................................................................................ 313 122
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Contents
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report v
3.15.5 Impacts Summary ............................................................................................ 316
3.15.6 References ....................................................................................................... 316
3.16 Transportation ................................................................................................................. 318
3.16.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................... 318
3.16.2 Regulatory Framework ..................................................................................... 319
3.16.3 Method of Analysis ........................................................................................... 324
3.16.4 Impact Analysis ................................................................................................ 326
3.16.5 Impacts Summary ............................................................................................ 331
3.16.6 References ....................................................................................................... 332
3.17 Tribal Cultural Resources ............................................................................................... 334
3.17.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................... 334
3.17.2 Regulatory Framework ..................................................................................... 335
3.17.3 Method of Analysis ........................................................................................... 341
3.17.4 Impact Analysis ................................................................................................ 344
3.17.5 Impacts Summary ............................................................................................ 346
3.17.6 References ....................................................................................................... 346
3.18 Utilities and Service Systems .......................................................................................... 348
3.18.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................... 348
3.18.2 Regulatory Framework ..................................................................................... 350
3.18.3 Method of Analysis ........................................................................................... 352
3.18.4 Impact Analysis ................................................................................................ 353
3.18.5 Impacts Summary ............................................................................................ 358
3.18.6 References ....................................................................................................... 359
3.19 Wildfire ............................................................................................................................ 361
3.19.1 Environmental Setting ...................................................................................... 361
3.19.2 Regulatory Framework ..................................................................................... 363
3.19.3 Method of Analysis ........................................................................................... 369
3.19.4 Impact Analysis ................................................................................................ 370
3.19.5 Impacts Summary ............................................................................................ 374
3.19.6 References ....................................................................................................... 375
3.20 Summary of Environmental Impacts ............................................................................... 377
4. Other CEQA Considerations ........................................................................................... 391
4.1 Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 391
4.2 Irreversible Impacts ......................................................................................................... 391
4.3 Significant and Unavoidable Impacts .............................................................................. 393
4.4 Growth Inducing Impacts ................................................................................................ 397
4.5 Cumulative Impacts ........................................................................................................ 402
4.5.1 Methods Used in the Cumulative Analysis ....................................................... 403
4.5.2 Cumulative Impact Analysis ............................................................................. 407
5. Alternatives ..................................................................................................................... 447
5.1 Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 447
5.1.1 CEQA Requirements ........................................................................................ 447
5.1.2 Project Objectives and Goals ........................................................................... 447 123
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Contents
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report vi
5.2 Alternatives Considered but Eliminated from Detailed Consideration ............................. 448
5.2.1 Local Construction of New Wastewater Treatment Plant ................................. 449
5.2.3 Butte Creek Alignment Spur within the Skyway Export Pipeline Alignment Alternative ........................................................................................................ 454
5.3 Alternatives Evaluated in the EIR .................................................................................... 454
5.3.1 No Project Alternative ...................................................................................... 455
5.3.2 Entler Avenue Hybrid Alternative ..................................................................... 455
5.3.3 Crouch Avenue Alternative ............................................................................... 456
5.3.4 Entler Avenue Hybrid and Crouch Avenue Alternative ..................................... 456
5.4 Methodology and Organization for Evaluating Alternatives ............................................. 459
5.4.1 Method for Evaluating Alternatives ................................................................... 459
5.4.2 Organization for Alternatives Impact Analysis .................................................. 459
5.5 Alternatives Impact Analysis ........................................................................................... 460
5.5.1 Agriculture ........................................................................................................ 460
5.5.2 Air Quality ........................................................................................................ 468
5.5.3 Biological Resources ........................................................................................ 476
5.5.4 Cultural Resources ........................................................................................... 493
5.5.5 Energy.............................................................................................................. 500
5.5.6 Geology, Soils, and Paleontological Resources ............................................... 505
5.5.7 Greenhouse Gas Emissions ............................................................................ 525
5.5.8 Hazards and Hazardous Materials ................................................................... 529
5.5.9 Hydrology and Water Quality ........................................................................... 545
5.5.10 Land Use and Planning .................................................................................... 566
5.5.11 Noise and Groundborne Vibration .................................................................... 570
5.5.12 Population and Housing ................................................................................... 578
5.5.13 Public Services................................................................................................. 582
5.5.14 Recreation ........................................................................................................ 595
5.5.15 Transportation .................................................................................................. 599
5.5.16 Tribal Cultural Resources ................................................................................. 607
5.5.17 Utilities and Service Systems ........................................................................... 612
5.5.18 Wildfire ............................................................................................................. 622
5.6 Comparison of Proposed Project and Alternative Impacts .............................................. 635
5.7 Environmentally Superior Alternative .............................................................................. 643
6. List of Preparers ............................................................................................................. 645
7. References ..................................................................................................................... 647 124
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Contents
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report vii
Tables
Table ES-1. Anticipated Required Permits and Approvals ............................................................ xxiv Table ES-2. Summary of Proposed Project Impacts ........................................................................ xi Table ES-3. Comparison of Proposed Project Alternative Impacts ................................................... li Table 1-1. Anticipated Required Permits and Approvals ................................................................... 4 Table 2-1. Core Collection System Pipeline Measurements ........................................................... 35 Table 2-2. Summary of Construction Crews and Equipment for Core Collection System ............... 36 Table 2-3. Export Pipeline System Measurements ......................................................................... 43 Table 2-4. Trenchless Crossing Location Details ............................................................................ 45 Table 2-5. Summary of Construction Crews and Equipment for Export Pipeline System ............... 55 Table 2-6. Approximate and Easement, Encroachment and Access Agreement Requirements for Export Pipeline System .............................................................................................. 58 Table 2-7. Construction Schedule for the Proposed Project ............................................................ 59 Table 3.2-1. 2016 Farmland Classification in Butte County ............................................................. 75 Table 3.2-2. Agriculture and Forestry Resources Impacts Summary .............................................. 85 Table 3.3-1. BCAQMD Thresholds of Significance .......................................................................... 95 Table 3.3-2. BCAQMD Screening Levels for Potential Odor Sources ............................................. 96 Table 3.3-3. Unmitigated Construction Criteria Air Pollutant Emissions .......................................... 99 Table 3.3-4. Air Quality Impacts Summary .................................................................................... 104 Table 3.4-1. Special-status Species with the Potential to Occur in the Study Area and their Associated Habitats ....................................................................................................... 113 Table 3.4-2. Biological Resources Impacts Summary ................................................................... 140 Table 3.5-1. Cultural Resources within the Project Area ............................................................... 151 Table 3.5-2. Cultural Resources Impacts Summary ...................................................................... 164 Table 3.6-1. Energy Impacts Summary ......................................................................................... 174 Table 3.7-1. Geology, Soils, and Paleontological Resources Impacts Summary .......................... 193 Table 3.8-1. Unmitigated Construction GHG Emissions ................................................................ 202 Table 3.8-2. GHG Emissions Impacts Summary ........................................................................... 204 Table 3.9-1. Hazards and Hazardous Materials Impacts Summary .............................................. 224 Table 3.10-1. Hydrology and Water Quality Impacts Summary ..................................................... 248 Table 3.11-1. Consistency with State and Local Land Use Plans, Policies, and Regulations ............................................................................................................. 259 Table 3.11-2. Land Use and Planning Impacts Summary ............................................................. 262 Table 3.12-1. Groundborne Vibration Structural Damage Criteria ................................................. 268 Table 3.12-2. Groundborne Vibration Human Annoyance Criteria ................................................ 269 Table 3.12-3. Noise Ordinance Specifications ............................................................................... 271 Table 3.12-4. Typical Construction Equipment Noise Levels ........................................................ 273 Table 3.12-5. Typical Construction Equipment Vibration Levels ................................................... 276 Table 3.12-6. Noise and Groundborne Vibration Impacts Summary ............................................. 278 Table 3.13-1. Population Before and After the Paradise Camp Fire ............................................. 280 Table 3.13-2. Housing Units Before and After the Paradise Camp Fire ........................................ 281 Table 3.13-3. Households Before and After the Paradise Camp Fire ........................................... 281 Table 3.13-4. Historic Population Trend ........................................................................................ 281 Table 3.13-5. Current Population Trend Since Paradise Camp Fire ............................................. 282 Table 3.13-6. Historic Housing Trend ............................................................................................ 282 125
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Contents
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report viii
Table 3.13-7. Historic Household Trends ...................................................................................... 282 Table 3.13-8. Population and Housing Impacts Summary ............................................................ 288 Table 3.14-1. Public Services Impacts Summary .......................................................................... 305 Table 3.15-1. Parks and Recreation Centers within 2 miles of the Study Area ............................. 308 Table 3.15-2. Water-Based Recreation within 2 miles of the Study Area ...................................... 310 Table 3.15-3. Recreational Trails within 2 miles of the Study Area ............................................... 311 Table 3.15-4. Recreation Impacts Summary ................................................................................. 316 Table 3.16-1. Butte County Peak Hour LOS Thresholds by Facility Type ..................................... 325 Table 3.16-2. Existing and Future PM Peak Hour Traffic Volume ................................................. 326 Table 3.16-3. Butte County VMT ................................................................................................... 326 Table 3.16-4. 2026 No Construction and Construction Traffic Volumes ........................................ 327 Table 3.16-5. Butte County VMT ................................................................................................... 329 Table 3.16-6. Transportation Impacts Summary ........................................................................... 331 Table 3.17-1. Tribes and Tribal Representatives Identified by the Native American Heritage Commission Who May Have an Interest in the Project ................................................. 343 Table 3.17-2. Tribal Cultural Resources Impacts Summary .......................................................... 346 Table 3.18-1. Summary of Utility Providers in the Study Area ....................................................... 348 Table 3.18-2. Butte County Solid Waste Landfill and Capacity Information .................................. 349 Table 3.18-3. Consistency with State and Local Plans, Policies, and Regulations ....................... 358 Table 3.18-4. Utilities and Service Systems Impacts Summary .................................................... 359 Table 3.19-1. Wildfire Impacts Summary ....................................................................................... 375 Table 3.20-1. Proposed Project Impact Summary Table ............................................................... 379 Table 4.3-1. Significant Impacts Mitigated from the Proposed Project .......................................... 393 Table 4.5-1. Cumulative Activities ................................................................................................. 404 Table 4.5-2. Summary of Proposed Project Impact Contribution to Cumulative Agriculture and Forestry Resources Impacts ................................................................................... 408 Table 4.5-3. Summary of Proposed Project Impact Contribution to Cumulative Air Quality Impacts .......................................................................................................................... 411 Table 4.5-4. Summary of Proposed Project Impact Contribution to Cumulative Biological Resources Impacts ........................................................................................................ 414 Table 4.5-5. Summary of Proposed Project Impact Contribution to Cumulative Cultural Resources Impacts ........................................................................................................ 416 Table 4.5-6. Summary of Proposed Project Impact Contribution to Cumulative Energy Impact ... 417 Table 4.5-7. Summary of Proposed Project Impact Contribution to Cumulative Geology, Soils, and Paleontological Resources Impacts .............................................................. 419 Table 4.5-8. Summary of Proposed Project Impact Contribution to Cumulative Greenhouse Gas Emissions Impacts ................................................................................................. 422 Table 4.5-9. Summary of Proposed Project Impact Contribution to Cumulative Hazards and Hazardous Materials Impacts ........................................................................................ 425 Table 4.5-10. Summary of Proposed Project Impact Contribution to Cumulative Hydrology and Water Quality Impacts ................................................................................................... 429 Table 4.5-11. Summary of Proposed Project Impact Contribution to Cumulative Land Use and Planning Impacts ........................................................................................................... 431 Table 4.5-12. Summary of Proposed Project Impact Contribution to Cumulative Noise and Groundborne Impacts .................................................................................................... 433 Table 4.5-13. Summary of Proposed Project Impact Contribution to Cumulative Population and Housing Impacts ............................................................................................................ 435 126
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Contents
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report ix
Table 4.5-14. Summary of Proposed Project Impact Contribution to Cumulative Public Services Impacts .......................................................................................................................... 436 Table 4.5-15. Summary of Proposed Project Impact Contribution to Cumulative Recreation Impacts .......................................................................................................................... 437 Table 4.5-16. Summary of Proposed Project Impact Contribution to Cumulative Transportation Impacts .......................................................................................................................... 439 Table 4.5-17. Summary of Proposed Project Impact Contribution to Cumulative Tribal Cultural Resources Impacts ........................................................................................................ 440 Table 4.5-18. Summary of Proposed Project Impact Contribution to Cumulative Utilities and Service Systems Impacts .............................................................................................. 443 Table 4.5-19. Summary of Proposed Project Impact Contribution to Cumulative Wildfire Impacts445 Table 5.2-1. Local Alternatives and Reasons for Elimination from Consideration. ........................ 450 Table 5.5-1. Alternatives Impacts Summary for Agriculture and Forestry Resources ................... 467 Table 5.5-2. Alternatives Impacts Summary for Air Quality ........................................................... 476 Table 5.5-3. Alternatives Impacts Summary for Biological Resources .......................................... 493 Table 5.5-4. Alternatives Impacts Summary for Cultural Resources ............................................. 500 Table 5.5-5. Alternatives Impacts Summary for Energy ................................................................ 504 Table 5.5-6. Alternatives Impacts Summary for Geology, Soils, and Paleontological Resources . 524 Table 5.5-7. Alternatives Impacts Summary for GHG Emissions .................................................. 528 Table 5.5-8. Alternatives Impacts Summary for Hazards and Hazardous Materials ..................... 544 Table 5.5-9. Alternatives Impacts Summary for Hydrology and Water Quality .............................. 565 Table 5.5-10. Alternatives Impacts Summary for Land Use and Planning .................................... 570 Table 5.5-11. Alternatives Impacts Summary for Noise and Groundborne Vibration .................... 578 Table 5.5-12. Alternatives Impacts Summary for Population and Housing ................................... 582 Table 5.5-13. Alternatives Impacts Summary for Public Services ................................................. 594 Table 5.5-14. Alternatives Impacts Summary for Recreation ........................................................ 599 Table 5.5-15. Alternatives Impacts Summary for Transportation .................................................. 607 Table 5.5-16. Alternatives Impacts Summary for Tribal Cultural Resources ................................. 611 Table 5.5-17. Alternatives Impacts Summary for Utilities and Service Systems ........................... 621 Table 5.5-18. Alternatives Impacts Summary for Wildfire .............................................................. 635 Table 5.6-1. Comparison of Proposed Project and Alternative Impacts ........................................ 636 Figures
Figure 1-1. Project Location .............................................................................................................. 3 Figure 2-1. Proposed Project Location .............................................................................................16 Figure 2-2. Pine Grove Mobile Home Park Effluent ......................................................................... 21 Figure 2-3. Individual Conventional Septic System .......................................................................... 27 Figure 2-4. Town of Paradise Proposed Core and Extended Collection System Boundaries .......... 31 Figure 2-5. Examples of Below-grade Pump Stations (left: large, approximately 8 feet in diameter; right: small, approximately 3 feet in diameter) ................................................................. 32 Figure 2-6. Core Collection System ................................................................................................. 34 Figure 2-7. Connection to Core Collection System ........................................................................... 35 Figure 2-8. Export Pipeline System .................................................................................................. 40 Figure 2-9. Example Transition Chamber with Vehicular Bollard Protection .....................................41 Figure 2-10. Transition Chamber and Flow Control and Metering Chamber Examples ................... 42 127
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Contents
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report x
Figure 2-11. Typical Open-cut Pipe Installation (left: pipe layout; right: open cut and shoring) ........44 Figure 2-12. Overview of Export Pipeline Trenchless Crossings ..................................................... 46 Figure 2-13. Typical HDD Installation ............................................................................................... 47 Figure 2-14. Butte Creek and Butte Creek Canyon Ecological Reserve HDD Crossing .................. 49 Figure 2-15. Comanche Creek HDD Crossing ................................................................................ 50 Figure 2-16. Little Chico Creek HDD Crossing .................................................................................51 Figure 2-17. Typical Microtunneling Installation ............................................................................... 52 Figure 2-18. State Route 99 Microtunnel Crossing ...........................................................................53 Figure 2-19. UPRR Microtunnel Crossing ....................................................................................... 54 Figure 2-20. Potential Staging Areas ............................................................................................... 62 Figure 2-21. Access and Truck Routes ........................................................................................... 65 Figure 3.2-1. Farmland Classifications in the Study Area ................................................................. 77 Figure 3.2-2. Williamson Act Parcels in the Study Area ................................................................... 78 Figure 3.3-1. Sensitive Receptors within 1,000 feet of the Proposed Project .................................. 91 Figure 3.11-1. Land Use Designation and Zoning within the Study Area ....................................... 252 Figure 3.12-1. Typical A-weighted Sound Levels ........................................................................... 264 Figure 3.12-2. Typical Groundborne Vibration Levels .................................................................... 266 Figure 3.14-1. Fire Protection Facilities within the Study Area .......................................................291 Figure 3.14-2. Police Protection Facilities within the Study Area .................................................... 293 Figure 3.14-3. Schools within the Study Area ................................................................................ 295 Figure 3.15-1. Recreation in the Study Area................................................................................... 309 Figure 3.16-1. Paradise Export Pipeline System Routes ................................................................320 Figure 5.3-1. Entler Avenue Hybrid Alternative .............................................................................. 457 Figure 5.3-2. Crouch Avenue Alternative ....................................................................................... 458 128
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Contents
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xi
Appendices
Appendix A: NOP Scoping Report
Appendix B: Town of Paradise 1994 General Plan Resolution and Amendments Appendix C: Regulatory Framework
Appendix D: Emissions Modeling
Appendix E: Vegetation Community Descriptions and Special-Status Species Accounts Attachment 1: Aquatic Resources and Vegetation Communities Mapbook Attachment 2: Database Queries
Attachment 3: Sensitive Biological Resources Table
Appendix F: Swainson’s Hawk Survey and Elderberry Shrub Mapping Report Appendix G: Tribal Consultation
Appendix H: Pump Station Energy Consumption Calculation Appendix I: Public Comments and Responses on Draft PEIR 129
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Abbreviations
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xii
Terms and Abbreviations
AB Assembly Bill
AB 52 Assembly Bill 52, Native Americans: California Environmental Quality Act ABAG Association of Bay Area Governments
ARB California Air Resources Board
BACT Best Available Control Technology
Basin Plan Water Quality Control Plan for the California Regional Water Quality Control Board Central Valley Region
BCAG Butte County Association of Governments
BCAQMD Butte County Air Quality Management District
BCFD Butte County Fire Department
BCSO Butte County Sheriff’s Office
B-Line Butte Regional Transit
BMP Best Management Practice
B.P. Before Present
BRCP Butte Regional Conservation Plan
BTUs British Thermal Units
Butte LAFCo Butte Local Agency Formation Commission
CAAQS California Ambient Air Quality Standards
Cal. Calibrated
CALFIRE California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Cal Water California Water Service
CalEEMod California Emissions Estimator Model
Caltrans California Department of Transportation
CARD Chico Area Recreation and Park District
CCR California Code of Regulations
CDC Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
CDFW California Department of Fish and Wildlife
CEC California Energy Commission
CEQA California Environmental Quality Act
CESA California Endangered Species Act
130
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Abbreviations
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xiii
CFD Chico Fire Department
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
CGP Construction General Permit
Chico WPCP Chico Water Pollution Control Plant
City City of Chico (governmental entity and geographic location) CMC Chico Municipal Code
CNPS California Native Plant Society
CO carbon monoxide
CO2 carbon dioxide
CO2e carbon dioxide equivalent
COVID-19 Coronavirus Disease 2019
County County of Butte (governmental entity and geographic location) CPD Chico Police Department
CRHR California Register of Historical Resources
CUSD Chico Unified School District
CWA Clean Water Act
cy cubic yard
dB decibel
dBA A-weighted decibel
DOC California Department of Conservation
DOF California Department of Finance
DOI US Department of the Interior
DTSC Department of Toxic Substances Control
DWR California Department of Water Resources
EFH Essential Fish Habitat (NMFS)
EIR environmental impact report
EMFAC Emissions Factor Model
EO Executive Order
FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency
FGC Fish and Game Code
FHSZ Fire Hazard Severity Zone
131
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Abbreviations
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xiv
FMMP DOC Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program
FR Federal Register
FRA Federal Responsibility Area
FTA Federal Transit Administration
GHG greenhouse gas
GPS Global Positioning System
GWh gigawatt-hours
HAPC Habitat Areas of Particular Concern (NMFS)
HCD California Department of Housing and Community Development HDD horizontal directional drilling
HDR HDR Engineering, Inc.
HFC-23 fluoroform
HFC-134a 1,1,1,2 tetrafluoroethane
HFC-152a difluoroethane
Hot Spots Act AB 2588, Air Toxics “Hot Spots” Information and Assessment Act of 1987 hp horsepower
HUC Hydrologic Unit Code
in/sec inch per second
kV kilovolt
kWh kilowatt hours
LAFCo Local Agency Formation Commission
lb pounds
Ldn Day-Night Average Sound Level
Leq Equivalent Sound Level
Lmax Maximum Sound Level
LHMP Butte County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
LID Low Impact Development
LOS level of service
LRA Local Responsibility Area
LTCRP Long Term Recovery Plan
LTS less than significant
132
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Abbreviations
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xv
LUST leaking underground storage tank
Lv Vibration Velocity Level
MBTA Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918
mgd million gallons per day
µg/m3 micrograms per cubic meter
MM mitigation measure
MS4 Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System
MT metric tons
N2O nitrous oxide
NAAQS National Ambient Air Quality Standards
NAHC Native American Heritage Commission
Natural Strategy The National Strategy: The Final Phase in the Development of the National Cohesive Wildland Fire Management Strategy
NEPA National Environmental Policy Act
NH4 methane
NHPA National Historic Preservation Act
NHTSA National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration NI no impact
NO nitric oxide
NO2 nitrogen dioxide
NOP Notice of Preparation
NOx nitrogen oxide
NMFS National Marine Fisheries Service
NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
NRCS Natural Resources Conservation Service
NHRP National Register of Historic Places
O3 ozone
OHWM ordinary highwater mark
Pac USFWS Information for Planning and Consultation system Pb lead
PEIR Program Environmental Impact Report
133
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Abbreviations
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xvi
PFD Paradise Fire Department
PFYC Potential Fossil Yield Classification
PG&E Pacific Gas and Electric Company
PID Paradise Irrigation District
PM2.5 particulate matter 2.5 micrometers and smaller
PM10 particulate matter 10 micrometers and smaller
PPD Paradise Police Department
PPV Peak Particle Velocity
PRC Public Resources Code
Proposed Project Paradise Sewer Project
PRPD Paradise Recreation and Park District
PUSD Paradise Unified School District
PVC polyvinyl chloride
RHNA Regional Housing Needs Allocation
RMS Root Mean Square
ROG reactive organic gases
ROW right-of-way
RTP/SCS Butte County 2020 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy
RWQCB Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board SB Senate Bill
SI significant impact
S/M significant impact but mitigable to a less-than-significant level SMAQMD Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District SO2 sulfur dioxide
SOI sphere of influence
SOx sulfur oxides
SR California State Route
SRA State Responsibility Area
SRPAC Sewer Regionalization Project Advisory Committee
SSA Sewer Service Area
134
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Abbreviations
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xvii
SSSGO Sanitary Sewer Systems General Order
SWPPP Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan
SWRCB State Water Resources Control Board
TACs toxic air contaminants
Tanner Act Toxic Air Contaminant Identification and Control Act TCR tribal cultural resource
THPO Tribal Historic Preservation Officer
Town Town of Paradise (governmental entity and geographic location) UPRR Union Pacific Railroad
USACE United States Army Corps of Engineers
USC United States Code
USDA United States Department of Agriculture
USEPA United States Environmental Protection Agency
USFWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service
USGS United States Geological Surveys
VdB vibration decibel
VMT vehicle miles traveled
WIFIA Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act
Williamson Act California Land Conservation Act of 1965 zone Town of Paradise Onsite Wastewater Management Zone 135
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Abbreviations
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xviii
Page Intentionally Blank
136
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xix
ES1 Executive Summary
This Program Environmental Impact Report (PEIR) has been prepared by the Town of Paradise (Town), California, which is the lead agency for the Paradise Sewer Project (Proposed Project) in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Per CEQA, the lead agency for a project is the “public agency with principal responsibility for carrying out or approving a project. The Lead Agency will decide whether an EIR (Environmental Impact Report) or Negative Declaration will be required for the project and will cause the document to be prepared” (CEQA Guidelines Section 15367).
The City of Chico (City), the Butte Local Agency Formation Commission (Butte LAFCo), the Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB), Butte County (County), and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) are considered Responsible Agencies under CEQA based on their discretionary approval power over some aspects of the Proposed Project and would consider use of this PEIR for their CEQA compliance.
This PEIR addresses the potential environmental effects of construction, operation and maintenance of the Proposed Project.
ES1.1 Project Background
For a number of years, the Town has pursued a municipal solution for wastewater treatment to address failed septic systems that have degraded local groundwater quality and constrained affordable housing, essential community services, and related economic growth. Reliance on septic systems has resulted in two areas of concern: environmental impacts and economic impediment. Failed septic systems release untreated wastewater into groundwater or at the ground surface, resulting in environmental degradation and public health risk due to water contamination or exposure to untreated wastewater. Economically, the lack of a sewer system has suppressed the development of a sustainable business community by limiting the size and types of businesses that can affordably operate in the community. Development of affordable housing and workforce housing also has been hindered as larger housing facilities require more sewer treatment capacity than a traditional septic system can provide within the available parcel sizes. As a result of these concerns, the Town worked diligently for more than 50 years, even prior to its incorporation in 1979, to identify a feasible wastewater treatment solution for the community, with a priority to provide service to those commercial and densely populated residential areas with failed and failing septic systems.
Results of a Phase I wastewater management study conducted for the Town in 1983 showed evidence of high levels of fecal coliform and septic system effluent in the water supply, resulting in degradation of water quality (Montgomery 1983). This study recommended that a sewer system or centralized wastewater management facility be considered for the Town (Montgomery 1983). Since 1983, numerous wastewater management studies have been prepared for the Town. On October 25, 1990, via Town of Paradise Resolution No. 90-47, the Town Council officially formed a Wastewater Design Assessment District for the purpose of developing a wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal facility. The proposed sewer system was to serve only the core commercial area of the community. In a letter dated May 4, 1992, the RWQCB approved the Town’s plans to establish an “Onsite Wastewater Management Zone” (zone) to address public health and environmental concerns noted in previous 137
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xx
studies (RWQCB 1992). The purpose of the formation of this zone, which remains in existence today, was to identify, permit, inspect, monitor, and regulate repairs and new construction of on-site wastewater systems that are required for new development (Town of Paradise 2022a). As of 2021, the zone permits and regulates more than 11,000 various wastewater systems. The collective individual septic systems vary in complexity, from standard septic tanks and absorption fields to small biological wastewater treatment systems (Town of Paradise 2022a). If the Proposed Project were implemented, the zone would remain active for those parcels that do not connect or have not yet connected to the sewer system.
In 2017, the Town completed a feasibility study, which evaluated advancing a sustainable wastewater solution for the benefit of the Town’s economy, environment, and community. The Town of Paradise Sewer Project, Alternatives Analysis and Feasibility Report: Determining a Preferred Option for Implementation (Bennett Engineering 2017) analyzed several options, including a “No Project” option, and identified the most feasible solution and next steps. Three local options and the Chico Water Pollution Control Plant (Chico WPCP) regional connection option were analyzed to address sewer service reliability problems and select the best alternative for the Town to carry forward to district formation, preliminary design, and environmental review. The socioeconomic study projected benefits to the Town and region, including an additional 161 jobs, additional $12.8 million in sales and output to the region in all sectors, regional long-term impact of $68 million in private and public investment, and $56 million increase in the property tax base (Bennett Engineering 2017). The study also predicted a 5 to 13 percent property value increase for parcels within the sewer district. The regional connection to the Chico WPCP was recommended by the study as the best long-term solution for the Town (Bennett Engineering 2017).
On November 8, 2018, the Camp Fire severely impacted the Town. More than 26,000 Town residents were displaced; 90 percent of structures in the Town, including more than 11,000 homes and 1,000 businesses, were burned to the ground; and, most tragically, 85 people lost their lives. The 2018 Camp Fire affected the Town’s business and management operations as resources were redirected toward recovery, which temporarily delayed further development of a municipal wastewater solution for the Town. Concurrently, private septic systems within the Town were found to be damaged by the fire, which in turn further degraded local groundwater quality and compounded the pre-fire sewer needs.
These additional impacts from the Camp Fire again constrained affordable housing, essential community services, and overall economic growth, while the Town endeavored to rebuild without a municipal sewer system in place.
In late 2019, the Town re-evaluated the previous study performed by Bennett Engineering in 2017 to explore a wastewater collection system in light of the additional impacts resulting from the 2018 Camp Fire, including septic system replacements, re-population within the sewer service area, and sewer impacts that had continued to occur since the 2017 study.
The Town continued to study wastewater discharge and treatment alternatives, including local treatment and disposal, as well as a regional treatment alternative at the Chico WPCP. In 2020, the Town received an Evaluation of Wastewater Treatment Plant Options, Town of Paradise, Butte County memorandum from the RWQCB. In the memorandum, RWQCB stated that the regional option presents 138
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xxi
an objectively more sustainable long-term solution to the Town’s wastewater infrastructure needs (RWQCB 2020).
The Town performed a detailed analysis of alternatives, in coordination with the City and RWQCB, from an environmental impact, cost, and operational standpoint. In partnership with the RWQCB and City, the regional approach to providing sewer service to the Town, by connecting to the existing Chico WPCP, was pursued over alternative options to build a new stand-alone treatment facility for the Town.
During these studies, it was also determined that the estimated average wastewater conveyance and treatment need for the sewer service area would be 0.464 million gallons per day (mgd). This flow rate would accommodate current repopulation and possible future growth, consistent with the current Town of Paradise 1994 General Plan and Town of Paradise 2022–2030 Housing Element Update (Town of Paradise and Quad Consultants 2008, Town of Paradise 2022a). The Town is preparing this PEIR to determine the feasibility of a regional wastewater treatment solution to fulfill this 0.464 mgd wastewater treatment need.
ES1.2 Project Location
Paradise is within eastern Butte County, California, in the western foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Its topography is characterized by intervening ridges and valleys sloping to the southwest, with elevations ranging from around 1,080 to 2,320 feet. The Town is bordered on the east by the western branch of the Feather River and on the west by Little Butte Creek. It is approximately 12 miles east of Chico, 20 miles northwest of Oroville, and 90 miles north of Sacramento. The Town is connected to Chico via Skyway, a Butte County roadway, and to Oroville via California State Route (SR) 191, which is known as Clark Road upon entering the Town from the south.
Chico, also in Butte County, sits on the Sacramento Valley floor, close to the foothills of the Sierra Nevada range to the east. Chico’s terrain is generally flat, with increasingly hilly terrain beginning at the eastern City limits. Chico is traversed by two creeks: Big Chico and Little Chico Creeks. These waterbodies discharge into the Sacramento River. SRs 32 and 99 comprise Chico’s regional transportation network. SR 32 connects Chico residents to Glenn and Plumas Counties to the west and east, respectively. SR 99 connects residents to Tehama and Sutter Counties to the north and south, respectively. Chico is the most populous city in Butte County, with a population of 102,892 in January 2022 (California Department of Finance [DOF] 2022).
The project location is shown in Figure ES-1.
ES1.3 Project Need and Objectives
Paradise is the largest town in California that relies solely on septic systems for the treatment and disposal of its wastewater (BCAG 2019a). Relying on private septic systems due to the lack of a municipal sewer collection system has a twofold implication: (1) the effect on the human and natural environment, and (2) the effect on the area’s economy and recovery from the 2018 Camp Fire. 139
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xxii
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
Figure ES-1. Proposed Project Location
140
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xxiii
The lack of reliable sewer infrastructure, due to the probability of failure and limitations on treatment and discharge within the current septic system network, poses an environmental threat to groundwater and surface water quality. When a septic system fails, it can either contaminate the groundwater underneath it or surface water nearby, creating environmental concerns for nearby streams and lakes as well as polluting the drinking water supply. Prior to the 2018 Camp Fire, the Town struggled to support a thriving economy, in part due to the lack of sewer availability. Conditions since the 2018 Camp Fire are amplified with even fewer businesses able to open or reopen due to septic failures or required upgrades that are cost prohibitive. Commercial parcels in Town are generally small in size and concentrated in a core commercial area that provides limited space for septic tanks and leach fields.
These restrictions are compounded by siting restrictions such as high groundwater and poor drainage due to the local soil composition. As a result, existing Town businesses have been severely constrained due to their septic system discharge exceeding the available capacity of the land itself, while new businesses are often forced to open elsewhere due to the limitations placed on them to operate with an on-site septic system. Three primary objectives and associated goals drove the development of the Proposed Project:
Provide long-term, efficient, reliable treatment of wastewater in a cost-effective, environmentally beneficial manner to current and returning Town residents, in a manner acceptable to the RWQCB and other permitting agencies:
o Accommodate regrowth while reducing further environmental degradation of groundwater and surface water from failing septic systems
o Reduce the public health risk associated with failing septic systems Generate economic recovery by eliminating septic-related capacity limitations, as well as the general burden of on-site wastewater management for businesses:
o Promote the return or arrival of essential community services and businesses by removing restrictions caused by on-site septic systems
Provide for the ability to construct and maintain affordable housing, specifically multi-family housing:
o Support centralizing affordable housing to Paradise’s urban core, along major evacuation routes
ES1.4 Required Permits and Approvals
The required federal, State, and local permits and approvals to move the Proposed Project forward are listed in Table ES-1.
141
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xxiv
Table ES-1. Anticipated Required Permits and Approvals
Agency and Jurisdiction Permit, Approval, or Clearance Relevance Federal
US Army Corps of Engineers:
Clean Water Act
Section 404 Permit Permanent or temporary placement and/or removal of material in waters of the US or
state, including wetlands
US Fish and Wildlife Service:
Endangered Species Act
Section 7 Consultation, Letter of Concurrence Presence of federally listed plant and wildlife species and critical habitat within the
impact area if unable to avoid through siting
of horizontal directional drilling or temporary
disturbance areas
National Marine Fisheries
Service: Endangered Species
Act, Magnuson Stevens
Essential Fish Habitat
Section 7 Consultation, No Effect
Determination
Intent to pursue no effect determination
through avoidance of federally listed
anadromous fish and critical habitat within
the impact area
State Historic Preservation
Officer: Section 106 of the
National Historic Preservation
Act (NHPA)
Concurrence on adequacy of identification
effort, National Register of Historic Places
eligibility determinations, and Finding of Effect
Aligned with federal permits and
consultations
Native American Tribes:
Konkow Valley Band of
Maidu
Mechoopda Indian Tribe
Tribal consultation per Section 106 of the
NHPA
Tribal consultation, aligned with Assembly
Bill 52, Native Americans: California
Environmental Quality Act (AB 52)
consultation
State
Native American Tribes:
Konkow Valley Band of
Maidu
Mechoopda Indian Tribe
Tribal consultation per AB 52 Tribal consultation, aligned with the CEQA process
State Water Resources Control
Board
NPDES Construction Stormwater General
Permit
Land disturbance exceeding thresholds
CDFW (Responsible Agency) Section 2081 Incidental Take Permit Lake and Streambed Alteration
Agreement
Both applications require a completed CEQA
clearance
Presence of state-listed
(threatened) Swainson’s hawks
nesting within the impact area
Three trenchless stream
crossings
California Department of
Transportation
Section 660 of the California Streets and
Highways Code
Specific to the trenchless crossing of
Highway 99 by the export pipeline
Local
Butte County (Responsible
Agency)
Approval for installation and operations and
maintenance of the export pipeline and any
appurtenant facilities located within County
rights of way; specifically, for
encroachment permits within County
rights of way.
Specific to the proposed export pipeline that
would be constructed within Butte County
ROW
142
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xxv
Agency and Jurisdiction Permit, Approval, or Clearance Relevance Private Landowner Permanent or temporary easements Specific to the proposed export pipeline installation on two private parcels in City
limits when pipeline would leave Skyway
and to connect portions of the sewer
system to each other within the Core
Collection Area
City of Chico (Responsible
Agency)
Approval to connect the sewer system to the
Chico WPCP
Specific to the export pipeline connection to
the Chico WPCP
RWQCB (Responsible
Agency)
Water Quality Certification for dredge or fill
impacts
Sanitary Sewer General Order permit
Permanent or temporary placement
and/or removal of material in waters of
the US or state, including wetlands;
three proposed trenchless crossing
could trigger the need for a Water
Quality Certification due to risk of fracout during construction. The Town will need coverage under the
General Order as an owner/operator of
a collection system that is longer than 1
mile
Butte LAFCo (Responsible
Agency)
Approval to extend the Chico sewer service
area
Extension of the Chico sewer service area
to include Town
Other
Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) Permit or Easement Agreement Specific to the export pipeline use of an abandoned UPRR parcel when leave
Skyway and trenchless export pipeline
crossing of active UPRR track
ES1.5 Proposed Project Components
The Proposed Project would consist of three primary components: Core Collection System, Export Pipeline System, and Extended Collection System. The first two components are analyzed in this PEIR at a project level because sufficient information is available about the characteristics, timing, and locations of these proposed components. Because the Extended Collection System is conceptual in definition and the characteristics, timing, and/or locations of the necessary buried gravity and pressure lines, maintenance holes, and pump stations are not available at the time of PEIR preparation, the Extended Collection System build-out is analyzed at a programmatic level in this PEIR.
Although not a physical change to the environment and, therefore, not required to be included in this PEIR (CEQA Guidelines 15064(d)), the Proposed Project would require the City and Town to enter into an inter-municipal agreement to capture the contractual terms for the provision of wastewater treatment services from the Chico WPCP to the Town (Government Code Section 56133) and a formal agreement or other mechanism for the construction and maintenance of facilities within the Butte County-maintained rights-of-way.
143
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xxvi
Approval from the Butte County LAFCo is required for the extension of services beyond the boundaries of Chico to allow the City to provide wastewater treatment services to the Town (Government Code Section 56133); therefore, this action is considered in this PEIR.
The following sections describe each of the three Project components and associated constructionrelated activities, where applicable.
ES1.5.1 Core Collection System
Location and Description. The infrastructure proposed to serve Paradise’s sewer service area within a portion of the Town is called the Core Collection System, which aligns with what is defined as the Sewer Service Area (SSA) in the Town of Paradise 2022 Housing Element. The Core Collection System would support the centralized businesses and housing in Town, including approximately 1,500 parcels along the Skyway, Clark Road, and Pearson Road corridors (approximately 13 percent of the 11,500 total parcels within Town limits). Construction of the Core Collection System would disturb approximately 10.67 acres. The Core Collection System is shown in Figure ES-2.
The Proposed Project would add an additional 0.109 mgd of wastewater from the Town to the Chico WPCP influent at the time of initial connection (estimated for late 2026). The estimated maximum wastewater conveyance and treatment need for the sewer service area is 464,000 gallons per day (0.464 mgd). This accounts for current and future estimated growth consistent with the current Town of Paradise General Plan and Town of Paradise 2022-2040 Housing Element Update, and would be realized over a projected 30-year planning horizon (Town of Paradise and Quad Consultants 2008, Town of Paradise 2022a).
The Core Collection System would be sized to serve parcels within the Town’s sewer service area and would consist of:
A system of gravity sewers, which would use energy resulting from a difference in elevation to remove wastewater;
Small pump stations used to move wastewater to higher elevations to allow subsequent transport by gravity flow;
Force (pressurized) mains, which are pressurized sewer pipes that convey water under pressure from the discharge side of the pump and are often used where gravity is not enough to move wastewater through a sewer line; and
A system of gravity sewers, which would use energy resulting from a difference in elevation to remove wastewater.
Most of the Core Collection System components would be constructed within the existing Town right-ofway (ROW). Temporary private easements could be required to install components of the Core Collection System, such as pipelines or pump stations. Because of the varied topography within the sewer service area, pump stations and pressurized force mains would be required to pump flows out of valleys and other low-lying areas to adjacent gravity sewers.
The Core Collection System would consist of approximately 157,000 feet of 6- to 8-inch-diameter gravity sewers, 29,000 feet of 2- to 4-inch-diameter force mains, and up to 28 pump stations. The 144
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xxvii
pipelines would be buried approximately 3 to 15 feet below the ground surface, depending on local topography and sewer system design features and constraints. At individual parcels (residential dwellings and businesses), public sewer laterals (typically 4 inches in diameter) would extend from the Core Collection System’s gravity sewer main to the property line, transitioning to a private sewer lateral within the parcel, leading to the structure.
145
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xxviii
Figure ES-2. Town of Paradise Proposed Core and Extended Collection System Boundaries 146
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xxix
Construction Methods. Construction within the Town’s ROW would use open-cut trenching methods to install the pipes and structures that comprise the Core Collection System. Open cut trenching is a method of installation that requires opening up the surface of the ground to install, repair or replace a new structure, such as a pipe, conduit, or cable. Where located within public streets, portions of the Town’s ROW would serve as a temporary construction zone, with restricted access to the ROW to allow trenching equipment to dig trenches. Work crews would install the pipe and structures, then backfill the excavation, restore the ground surface to its previous or better conditions and re-establish full access to the area. The required maintenance holes and pump stations would involve similar construction methods of open cut, installation, backfill, and restoration.
Materials. The following excavated and fill materials are anticipated for Core Collection System construction (HDR 2022): export of 169,400 cubic yards of soil and import of 62,600 cubic yards of fill material. Other materials that would be used in the Core Collection System construction (HDR 2022) include: polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe and miscellaneous fittings, pre-built pump stations and associated mechanical/electrical components, temporary and permanent paving (asphalt), and backfill material.
Schedule. Based on an anticipated 22-month construction period for the Core Collection System, an average of 750 round-trip truck trips distributed across an average of 11 crews working at a given time would be generated each working day during construction (HDR 2022). Based on an anticipated 22- month construction period, installation of the Core Collection System would require multiple crews to be working at the same time (HDR 2022).
Easement Requirements. The majority of the Core Collection System would be installed within the Town’s ROWs (i.e., Town streets, existing public ROW). However, small segments of the Core Collection System may need to cross private parcels to install components of the Core Collection System, such as pipelines or pump stations. In those cases, easements would be acquired from the property owners.
ES1.5.2 Export Pipeline System
Location and Description. The proposed Export Pipeline System would start at the southern end of the Core Collection System as a gravity sewer line and would continue southwest approximately 18 miles to the City for connection to the Chico WPCP. In total, construction of the Export Pipeline System would disturb approximately 5.95 acres. The system would be primarily constructed within Butte County public ROW, except for approximately 5,700 feet (1.1 miles) of pipeline in southern Chico on privately owned parcels and at the connection with the Chico WPCP . In the southern Chico location, the proposed pipeline alignment leaves the Butte County public ROW at Skyway and runs first along an inactive Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR)-owned parcel before crossing two private parcels located within the City limits just east of SR 99. This segment comprising the UPRR parcel and the two private parcels in the City is the only section along the proposed Export Pipeline System that is not in the public ROW, other than the connection with the Chico WPCP. The segment for connection to the Chico WPCP would fall within the WPCP site, which is City property. Further, the crossing of the two private parcels and the final connection at the Chico WPCP are the only segments of the Proposed Project that would fall within City boundaries. Figure ES-3 shows the Export Pipeline System route. 147
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xxx
The Proposed Export Pipeline System would include the following sub-components:
Ridge Gravity Section: The Export Pipeline System begins with the Ridge Gravity Section. In this section, the wastewater flows by gravity and no pump stations would be required. To handle both the initial low wastewater flows and future build out flows, two separate gravity sewer pipes, with an accompanying fiber-optic conduit for pipeline operations, will be installed within the County ROW.
Transition Chamber: The Transition Chamber would provide the necessary transition of the wastewater flow from the steep Ridge Gravity Section to the Gravity Force Main Section that runs along the flatter portions of the valley floor, connecting the Gravity Force Main Section to the Chico WPCP. The Transition Chamber would be installed along Skyway, just before the pipeline reaches the City limits. The chamber would be a below-ground (likely cylindrical) structure with a small box-like structure above ground to house electronics associated with measurement devices within the chamber.
Gravity Force Main Section: Flow leaving the Transition Chamber would be pressurized based on the gravity flow from the Ridge Gravity Section, and the pipe would flow full, creating a beneficial force main based on the hydraulic behavior of the sewer, so the effluent can reach the Chico WPCP. The Gravity Force Main Section would consist of a pipe, with an accompanying fiber-optic conduit. The pipeline would be installed along existing roads within the County ROW, or within permanent sewer easements obtained from private property owners, if necessary.
Maintenance Holes: Approximately 80 maintenance holes, which are required for the maintenance of the pipelines, would be placed along the Ridge Gravity and Gravity Force Main Sections.
Flow Control and Metering Structure: A Flow Control and Metering Structure, located at or near the Chico WPCP, would consist of two below-ground circular chambers (or similar) next to each other. Similar to the Transition Chamber, a small, above-ground, box-like structure would house electronics associated with the flow control and measurement devices installed below ground. The first below-ground chamber would be dry (the wastewater would remain within the pipe that is exposed within the chamber) and would contain a magnetic flow meter and a pressure gauge on the pipeline. The second chamber would be wet, with the wastewater discharging into the chamber via a modulating plug valve. A modulating plug valve would keep the Transition Chamber and Gravity Force Main Sections full, to maintain the hydraulic function of the Gravity Force Main Section. In this chamber, the wastewater would travel through the modulating valve, discharge into the open chamber, and then flow by gravity from the second chamber to the existing Influent Sewer Junction Box A at the Chico WPCP. This would be the terminus of the Export Pipeline System.
148
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xxxi
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
Figure ES-3. Export Pipeline System
149
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xxxii
Fiber-optic Conduit: The Proposed Project includes two below-ground structures along the Export Pipeline System: a Transition Chamber and a Flow Control and Metering Structure.
These two structures include instruments that would monitor various parameters of the wastewater, such as water levels, valve positions, and wastewater flow rate. To reliably communicate the signals from those electrical instruments to the Town and the Chico WPCP, the Proposed Project would include installation of a fiber-optic conduit in the same trench as the Export Pipeline System. The conduit would be made of metal, PVC, or fiberglass braiding, and would be placed above the pipelines.
Chico WPCP Connection: The southern end of the Export Pipeline System would connect to the existing Chico WPCP. This connection would involve using an existing stub-out pipe or drilling a hole in an existing below-ground concrete box at the facility and connecting the new pipeline. Consistent with existing operations, the wastewater would be treated at the Chico WPCP and discharged to the Sacramento River through a submerged outfall diffuser. It is anticipated that the Town’s connection would fall within the requirements of the current National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit.
Construction Methods. The Export Pipeline System would generally be constructed using open-cut methods (also known as open-trench method). The construction sequence would consist of (1) backhoe excavation; (2) shoring systems installation for trench excavation protection to achieve the excavation depth; (3) pipe installation; and (4) trench backfill placement, with subsequent shoring system removal and ground surface restoration.
A trenchless construction method is proposed at five locations (Butte Creek and Butte Creek Canyon Ecological Reserve, Comanche Creek, Little Chico Creek, SR 99, and UPRR) along the proposed Export Pipeline System route. The trenchless crossings would be constructed using either horizontal directional drilling (HDD) or microtunneling methods, depending on the feature being crossed. Both methods would involve excavated pits at either end of the crossing to allow pipe installation beneath the feature (e.g., creek, highway, railroad), and avoiding the disruption of excavation at the surface of the specific feature location.
Materials. The following excavated and fill materials are anticipated for Export Pipeline System construction (HDR 2022): export of 60,800 cubic yards of soil and import of 22,900 cubic yards of fill material. Other materials that are anticipated to be used on the Export Pipeline System construction (HDR 2022) include: PVC pipe and miscellaneous fittings, concrete maintenance holes, precast concrete cylinders, metal carrier pipe, temporary and permanent paving (asphalt), and backfill material.
Schedule. Installation of the Export Pipeline System would occur over an 18-month construction period and would require multiple crews to be working at the same time.
Easement, Encroachment, or Access Permission Requirements. The Skyway segment of the Export Pipeline System is located within the County public ROW; therefore, construction would require a form of access agreement with general and special County conditions, as well as an ongoing access agreement for maintenance activities. Once the pipeline alignment departs from Skyway to head towards the Chico WPCP, it would remain within an inactive UPRR rail corridor parcel before bisecting two private parcels, owned by a single landowner; these crossings would require ROW acquisitions 150
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xxxiii
from UPRR and the private property owner. The total length of pipeline that would be on private parcels is approximately 5,700 feet (1.1 miles). For crossing the private parcels, the Town would purchase both temporary (construction) and permanent easements from the parcel owner. The construction easements would provide sufficient space to install the export pipeline as well as for construction vehicles to move across the parcels and reach public roads. The permanent easements would be necessary to allow future access to the pipelines, should maintenance work be required. The pipeline would then cross SR 99, requiring a Caltrans encroachment permit, and finally reconnect to the County public ROW at Entler Avenue. The pipeline would follow County public roads to the Chico WPCP, again requiring County permits. Along this segment, the pipeline makes a trenchless crossing of an active UPRR rail corridor, requiring an additional UPRR encroachment permit.
ES1.5.3 Extended Collection System
The Extended Collection System would be an extension of the Core Collection System that would allow collection of sewage from parcels outside the Core Collection System, within the Town limits. The Extended Collection System is shown in Figure ES-2. The flow from the Extended Collection System and Core Collection System combined would be limited to the total discharge agreed to between the Town and City, which is currently set at 0.464 mgd, the estimated build-out of the sewer service area.
However, the overall purpose of the Proposed Project is not to serve the entire Town. Areas will continue to exist that are served by the existing District. Instead, the Extended Collection System will provide an opportunity for other property owners within Town limits to connect, particularly those owners with properties near the Core Collection System boundaries that aim to serve higher density uses, such as commercial or multi-family housing. In addition, no portion of the Extended Collection System would extend beyond the Town limits in any case. No sewer service connections would be considered outside the Town and pursuant to the principals of agreement with Chico, the project is not designed or intended to serve properties in unincorporated Butte County.
The Extended Collection System would consist of force mains, gravity trunk lines, and additional pump stations. It would likely be constructed as multiple smaller efforts, with geographically similar clusters of parcels within the Town limits being treated as separate individual projects. The methods and materials used to construct the Extended Collection System would be similar to the Core Collection System. If an Extended Collection System is implemented in the future, it is assumed that similar crew composition and sizes as well as construction equipment would be used, but for shorter durations.
ES1.6 Proposed Schedule
Construction of the Core Collection System would occur over approximately 22 months, with mobilization beginning in August 2024 and completion by May 2026. The Export Pipeline System would be constructed over an 18-month period beginning in August 2024 and ending in January 2026. The Core Collection System and the Export Pipeline System would go through their own individual startup periods, to confirm operation of each one individually. The entire Project would then go through a 2- month system start-up period in June and July 2026. Construction of the Extended Collection System would occur following completion of construction of the Core Collection System and Export Pipeline System, and would be expected to occur between 2026 and 2056. 151
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xxxiv
The Proposed Project within the Core Collection System area would be operational in 2026, with consideration of the Extended Collection System connections through 2056. While the Proposed Project would be in place and able to receive inflow and discharge to the Chico WPCP in 2026, actual sewer flow would be discharged into the pipeline as the private properties connect to it. Initially, the Proposed Project would add 0.109 mgd of wastewater from the Town to the Chico WPCP influent. The full build-out flow of 464,000 gallons per day (0.464 mgd) may not be realized until 2057 or beyond.
ES1.7 Proposed Staging, Traffic Management, and Access Points Figure ES-4 shows the location of the potential staging areas. Up to 11 staging areas for equipment and materials have been identified for potential use by the contractor to maximize access to work areas and store material. These areas have also been selected because they avoid effects on sensitive environmental resources. Staging areas would have temporary fencing installed to provide a secure storage area and might require minor grading to create a level work surface. No permanent paving would be done. Any unpaved areas temporarily used for construction staging would be returned to their original or better condition. If staging areas are located on public property, encroachment permits would be obtained from the public agency that owns the property. If staging areas are located on private property, temporary construction easements would be acquired from the private property owner.
No permanent road closures would result from construction of the Proposed Project. Temporary full road closures are not anticipated; however, could occur, if necessary for public safety for a short duration (approximately 2 to 4 hours). No road closures are planned within City limits. For locations where the pipeline is being installed along existing Town or County public ROW, temporary, single-lane road closures with traffic controls around the work areas could occur along the following roads:
Skyway
Entler Avenue
Midway
Hegan Lane
Elk Avenue
Lone Pine Avenue
Crouch Avenue
Chico Avenue
Taffee Avenue
Chico River Road
The Export Pipeline System would be primarily constructed within the County public ROW, except for approximately 5,700 feet (1.1 miles) of pipeline construction in southern Chico. Where the proposed pipeline alignment leaves the Butte County public ROW at Skyway, it would remain within an inactive UPRR corridor parcel before bisecting two private parcels located within the City limits. For all construction, trucks moving equipment in and out, hauling away excess material, and importing material would move across the parcels within boundaries outlined in temporary construction easements to reach the public roads or remain within public ROW. Trucks hauling loose materials, such as soil and gravel, would be covered to prevent damage to other vehicles. 152
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xxxv
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
Figure ES-4. Potential Staging Areas
153
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xxxvi
ES1.8Proposed Operation and Maintenance
The Town would own, operate, and maintain the Core Collection System, Export Pipeline System and Extended Collection System. The Town may hire additional staff to handle these operation and maintenance activities. The wastewater operations team would include the following support positions, some of which may be provided by current Town staff: administrative and reception staff, accounting staff, three field crew/utility staff, and one on-site service technician. The existing Public Works director would serve in the management role over sewer functions.
The Statewide General Waste Discharge Requirements for Sanitary Sewer Systems (Sanitary Sewer Systems General Order, or SSSGO) was adopted by the SWRCB in May 2006 to provide a consistent statewide approach for reducing sanitary sewer overflows (including leakages). The SSSGO applies to all publicly owned sanitary sewer collection systems in California with more than one mile of sewer pipe. Since the Town’s collection system will have more than one mile of sewer pipe, and the Town will own and operate the collection system, the Town will comply with the SSSGO. The RWQCB will oversee the permitting of the Town’s collection system under the SSSGO. Per the SSSGO, and subject to its terms, the Town will develop a sewer system management plan. The sewer system management plan will include policies, procedures and activities covering the planning, management, operation and maintenance of the collection system. As part of this sewer system management plan, the Town must also develop and implement an overflow emergency response plan to identify measures to protect public health and the environment. Pursuant to the SSSGO, the Town will be required to report sanitary system overflows to the RWQCB using an electronic reporting system. Review and approval by the City and County of the Town’s proposed sewer system management plan would be required prior to start of operations.
In addition to the sewer system management plan and related requirements, and prior to the start of operations, the Town will adopt applicable ordinances and establish internal administrative procedures to permit and regulate future property owner connections to the Proposed Project .
ES1.9Project Alternatives
The following four alternatives were selected for comparative analysis in this PEIR:
No Project Alternative: The No Project Alternative is required by CEQA and consists of the circumstances under which the Proposed Project does not proceed. Entler Avenue Hybrid Alternative: Proposed Project with alternative pipeline alignment for crossing SR 99.
Crouch Avenue Alternative: Proposed Project with alternative pipeline alignment for crossing Little Chico Creek.
Entler Avenue Hybrid and Crouch Avenue Alternative: Proposed Project with alternative pipeline alignment for crossing SR 99 and alternative pipeline alignment for crossing Little Chico Creek.
The following sections describe each of the four alternatives. 154
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report xxxvii
ES1.9.1 No Project Alternative
Under the No Project Alternative, the Town would not construct a Core Collection System, an Export Pipeline System, or an Extended Collection System. The Town would continue to rely on private, individual septic systems for wastewater management.
ES1.9.2 Entler Avenue Hybrid Alternative
The Entler Avenue Hybrid Alternative would include the same Core Collection System within the Town and the same Export Pipeline System along Skyway but would provide an alternative route between Skyway and Entler Avenue (see Figure ES-5). This alternative would cross Butte Creek with trenchless HDD at the same location as the Proposed Project but would cross SR 99 north of the Proposed Project alignment, crossing the California Highway Patrol property and another private parcel. Similar to the Proposed Project, the Entler Avenue Hybrid Alternative would cross SR 99 with a trenchless crossing aligned with Norfield Avenue. The pipeline would then rejoin the Proposed Project alignment along Entler Avenue. The total length of this alternative segment is approximately 2,622 feet. All other components of the Proposed Project would remain the same as defined in Section ES1.5.
ES1.9.3 Crouch Avenue Alternative
The Crouch Avenue Alternative would include the same Core Collection System within the Town and the same Export Pipeline System along Skyway but would provide an alternative route for the pipeline to cross Little Chico Creek (see Figure ES-6). After the Proposed Project alignment would cross Comanche Creek and turn north along Crouch Avenue, the Crouch Avenue Alternative would continue along Crouch Avenue to Chico River Road, crossing Little Chico Creek along the way. Little Chico Creek would be crossed using trenchless technology via HDD methods. The Crouch Avenue Alternative would then turn west to rejoin the Proposed Project alignment as it travels west along Chico River Road to the Chico WPCP. The total length of this alternative segment is approximately 7,353 feet.
All other components of the Proposed Project would remain the same as defined in Section ES1.5.
ES1.9.4 Entler Avenue Hybrid and Crouch Avenue Alternative The Entler Avenue Hybrid and Crouch Avenue Alternative would include the same Core Collection System within the Town and the same Export Pipeline System along Skyway but would provide alternative routes for the pipeline to cross Highway SR 99 and Little Chico Creek. This alternative comprises a combination of the Entler Avenue Hybrid and Crouch Avenue alternatives discussed above. The total length of the combined alternative segments is approximately 9,975 feet. All other components of the Proposed Project would remain the same as defined in Section ES1.5.
ES1.10 Environmental Impacts from the Proposed Project
Table ES-2 summarizes direct and indirect impacts from construction and operation of the Proposed Project.
155
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report xxxviiiFigure ES-5. Entler Avenue Hybrid Alternative 156
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report xxxix Figure ES-6. Crouch Avenue Alternative
157
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report xl
Table ES-2. Summary of Proposed Project Impacts
Impact Level of Significance Before Mitigation Mitigation Measure Level of Significance After Mitigation Agriculture and Forestry Resources Impact AG-1: Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to non-agricultural use No Impact Not Applicable No Impact
Impact AG-2: Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract No Impact Not Applicable No Impact
Impact AG-3: Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of, forest land (as defined in PRC § 12220(g)), timberland (as defined by PRC § 4526), or timberland zoned Timberland Production (as defined by California Government Code § 51104(g)) No Impact Not Applicable No Impact
Impact AG-4: Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use No Impact Not Applicable No Impact
Impact AG-5: Involve other changes in the existing environment which, due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of Farmland to nonagricultural use or conversion of forest land to non-forest use Less-than-Significant Impact
Not Applicable Less-than-Significant
Impact
Air Quality Impact AIR-1: Conflict with or obstruct implementation of an applicable air quality plan Less-than-Significant Impact
Not Applicable Less-than-Significant
Impact
Impact AIR-2: Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the Project region is nonattainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard Less-than-Significant Impact
Not Applicable Less-than-Significant
Impact
Impact AIR-3: Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations Less-than-Significant Impact
Not Applicable Less-than-Significant
Impact
Impact AIR-4: Result in other emissions, such as those leading to odors, adversely affecting a substantial number of people Less-than-Significant Impact
Not Applicable Less-than-Significant
Impact
158
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report xli Impact Level of Significance Before Mitigation Mitigation Measure Level of Significance After Mitigation Biological Resources Impact BIO-1: Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the CDFW or USFWS: Special-Status Plant Species Significant Impact MM-BIO-1: Minimize Disturbance
Footprint MM-BIO-2: Special-status Plant Surveys MM-BIO-3: Special-status Plant Avoidance MM-BIO-4: Biological Monitoring and Worker Environmental Awareness Training MM-BIO-5: Restoration of Temporarily Disturbed Areas Less-Than-Significant Impact
Impact BIO-1: Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the CDFW or USFWS: Vernal Pool Crustaceans Significant Impact MM-BIO-1: Minimize Disturbance
Footprint MM-BIO-6: No Net Loss of Aquatic Resources MM-BIO-7: Sensitive Community Fencing MM-BIO-8: Dry Work Areas Less-Than-Significant Impact
Impact BIO-1: Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the CDFW or USFWS: Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle Significant Impact MM-BIO-1: Minimize Disturbance
Footprint MM-BIO-9: Mapping of Elderberry Shrubs and Section 7 Consultation MM BIO-10: No Net Loss of Elderberry Shrubs MM-BIO-11: Elderberry Transplanting MM BIO-12: Avoidance Area MM-BIO-13: Chemical Use MM-BIO-14: Mowing Less-Than-Significant Impact
Impact BIO-1: Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the CDFW or USFWS: Special-Status Fishes Significant Impact MM-BIO-15: Frac-Out Plan Less-than-Significant Impact
159
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report xlii Impact Level of Significance Before Mitigation Mitigation Measure Level of Significance After Mitigation Impact BIO-1: Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the CDFW or USFWS: Special-status Amphibians and Reptiles Significant Impact MM-BIO-1: Minimize Disturbance
Footprint MM-BIO-6: No Net Loss of Aquatic Resources MM-BIO-7: Sensitive Community Fencing MM-BIO-8: Dry Work Areas MM-BIO-16: Western Pond Turtle Visual Encounter Surveys MM-BIO-17: Foothill Yellowlegged Frog Surveys MM-BIO-18: California Redlegged Frog Surveys. MM-BIO-19: Conduct Construction Activities during the Active Period for Giant Garter Snakes. MM-BIO-20: Minimize Potential Effects on Giant Garter Snake Habitat.
Less-Than-Significant Impact
Impact BIO-1: Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the CDFW or USFWS: MBTA and FGC-Protected Birds and Raptors Significant Impact MM-BIO-1: Minimize Disturbance
Footprint MM-BIO-21: MBTA and FGCProtected Bird and Raptor Surveys MM-BIO-22: Protocol Swainson’s Hawk Surveys MM-BIO-23: Nest Avoidance Less-Than-Significant Impact
Impact BIO-1: Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the CDFW or USFWS: Special-Status Bats Significant Impact MM-BIO-1: Minimize Disturbance
Footprint MM-BIO-24: Bat Surveys
Less-Than-Significant Impact
Impact BIO-1: Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the CDFW or USFWS: American Badger Significant Impact MM-BIO-1: Minimize Disturbance
Footprint MM-BIO-25: American Badger Detection Surveys
Less-Than-Significant Impact
160
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report xliii Impact Level of Significance Before Mitigation Mitigation Measure Level of Significance After Mitigation Impact BIO-2: Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, and regulations or by the CDFW or USFWS Significant Impact MM-BIO-1: Minimize Disturbance
Footprint MM-BIO-5: Restoration of Temporarily Disturbed Areas MM-BIO-6: No Net Loss of Aquatic Resources MM-BIO-7: Sensitive Community Fencing MM-BIO-8: Dry Work Areas Less-Than-Significant Impact
Impact BIO-3: Have a substantial adverse effect on state or federally protected wetlands Significant Impact MM-BIO-1: Minimize Disturbance
Footprint MM-BIO-5: Restoration of Temporarily Disturbed Areas MM-BIO-6: No Net Loss of Aquatic Resources MM-BIO-7: Sensitive Community Fencing MM-BIO-8: Dry Work Areas MM-BIO-26: State or Federally Protected Wetlands Mitigation Less-Than-Significant Impact
Impact BIO-4: Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of wildlife nursery sites No Impact Not Applicable No Impact
Impact BIO-5: Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance No Impact Not Applicable No Impact
Impact BIO-6: Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan No Impact Not Applicable No Impact
Cultural Resources Impact CUL-1: Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource pursuant to section 15064.5 Less-than-Significant Impact
Not Applicable Less-than-Significant
Impact
Impact CUL-2: Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to section 15064.5 Significant Impact MM-CUL-1: Targeted
archaeological monitoring MM-CUL-2: Follow inadvertent discovery procedures Less-Than-Significant Impact
161
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report xliv Impact Level of Significance Before Mitigation Mitigation Measure Level of Significance After Mitigation Impact CUL-3: Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries Less-than-Significant Impact
Not Applicable Less-than-Significant
Impact
Energy Impact ENG-1: Result in potentially significant environmental impact due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy resources, during project construction, operation, or maintenance Less-than-Significant Impact
Not Applicable Less-than-Significant
Impact
Impact ENG-2: Conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency No Impact Not Applicable No Impact
Geology, Soils, and Paleontological Resources Impact GEO-1(a): Directly or indirectly cause potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving: Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault No Impact Not Applicable No Impact
Impact GEO-1(b): Directly or indirectly cause potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving: Strong seismic ground shaking Significant Impact MM-GEO-1: Minimize Geologic
Hazards
Less-than-Significant Impact
Impact GEO-1(c): Directly or indirectly cause potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving: Seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction Significant Impact MM-GEO-1: Minimize Geologic
Hazards
Less-than-Significant Impact
Impact GEO-1(d): Directly or indirectly cause potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving: Landslides Significant Impact MM-GEO-1: Minimize Geologic
Hazards
Less-than-Significant Impact
Impact GEO-2: Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil Less-than-Significant Impact
Not Applicable Less-than-Significant
Impact
Impact GEO-3: Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the Project, and potentially result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction, or collapse Significant Impact MM-GEO-1: Minimize Geologic
Hazards
Less-than-Significant Impact
Impact GEO-4: Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial direct or indirect risk to life or property Significant Impact MM-GEO-1: Minimize Geologic
Hazards
Less-than-Significant Impact
Impact GEO-5: Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of wastewater No Impact Not Applicable No Impact
162
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report xlv Impact Level of Significance Before Mitigation Mitigation Measure Level of Significance After Mitigation Impact GEO-6: Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature Significant Impact MM-GEO-2: Inadvertent
Discovery Protocol
Less-Than-Significant Impact
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Impact GHG-1: Generate GHG emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the environment Less-than-Significant Impact
Not Applicable Less-than-Significant
Impact
Impact GHG-2: Conflict with an applicable plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of reduction the emissions of GHG No Impact Not Applicable No Impact
Hazards and Hazardous Materials Impact HAZ-1: Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials Significant Impact MM-HAZ-1: Vehicle Equipment
Access and Fueling
Less-than-Significant Impact
Impact HAZ-2: Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment Less-than-Significant Impact
Not Applicable Less-than-Significant
Impact
Impact HAZ-3: Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school Less-than-Significant Impact
Not Applicable Less-than-Significant
Impact
Impact HAZ-4: Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code § 65962.5 and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment Significant Impact MM-HAZ-2: Cypress Lane Site
Specific Contaminated Soil Management Plan
Less-than-Significant Impact
Impact HAZ-5: For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project result in a safety hazard or excessive noise for people residing or working in the project area No Impact Not Applicable No Impact
Impact HAZ-6: Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan Significant Impact MM-HAZ-3: Road Closure
Restrictions MM-HAZ-4: Rapid Demobilization Plan MM-HAZ-5 : Evacuation Warning Procedures MM-HAZ-6: Traffic Management Plan Less-than-Significant Impact
163
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report xlvi Impact Level of Significance Before Mitigation Mitigation Measure Level of Significance After Mitigation Impact HAZ-7: Expose people or structures, either directly or indirectly, to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires Significant Impact MM-HAZ-1: Vehicle Equipment
Access and Fueling MM-HAZ-7: Incorporate Fire Prevention Measures MM-HAZ-8: Incorporate Public Safety Measures MM-HAZ-9: Wildland Fire Area Less-than-Significant Impact
Hydrology and Water Quality Impact HYD-1: Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements or otherwise substantially degrade surface or ground water quality Significant Impact MM-HAZ-1: Vehicle and
Equipment Access and Fueling MM-HYD-1: Stormwater Management and Treatment Plan MM-HYD-2: Construction Best Management Practices MM-BIO-15: Frac-out Plan Less-than-Significant Impact
Impact HYD-2: Substantially decrease groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that the Project may impede sustainable groundwater management of the basin Less-than-Significant Impact
Not Applicable Less-than-Significant
Impact
Impact HYD-3(a): Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river or through the addition of impervious surfaces, in a manner which would: Result in substantial erosion or siltation on or off-site Significant Impact MM-HYD-1: Stormwater
Management and Treatment Plan
Less-than-Significant
Impact HYD-3(b): Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river or through the addition of impervious surfaces, in a manner which would: Substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or off-site Significant Impact MM-HYD-1: Stormwater
Management and Treatment Plan MM-HYD-3: Flood Protection Plan Less-than-Significant Impact
Impact HYD-3(c): Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river or through the addition of impervious surfaces, in a manner which would: Create or contribute runoff water that would exceed the capacity of existing or planned storm water drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff Significant Impact MM-HYD-1: Stormwater
Management and Treatment Plan MM-HYD-3: Flood Protection Plan Less-than-Significant Impact
164
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report xlvii Impact Level of Significance Before Mitigation Mitigation Measure Level of Significance After Mitigation Impact HYD-3(d): Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river or through the addition of impervious surfaces, in a manner which would: Impede or redirect flood flows Less-than-Significant Impact
Not Applicable Less-than-Significant
Impact
Impact HYD-4: In flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche zones, risk release of pollutants due to Project inundation Significant Impact MM-HYD-3: Flood Protection Plan Less-than-Significant Impact
Impact HYD-5: Conflict with or obstruct implementation of a water quality control plan or sustainable groundwater management plan Significant Impact MM-HYD-1: Stormwater
Management and Treatment Plan
Less-than-Significant Impact
Land Use and Planning Impact LU-1: Physically divide an established community No Impact Not Applicable No Impact Impact LU-2: Cause any significant environmental impact due to a conflict with any land use plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect No Impact Not Applicable No Impact
Noise and Groundborne Vibration Impact NSE-1: Generate a substantial temporary or permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the Project in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or in applicable standards of other agencies Significant Impact MM-NSE-1: Minimize
Construction Noise
Less-Than-Significant Impact
Impact NSE-2: Generate excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels
Significant Impact MM-NSE-1: Minimize
Construction Noise
Less-Than-Significant Impact
Impact NSE-3: Be located within the vicinity of a private airstrip or an airport land-use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within 2 miles of a public airport or public-use airport, expose people residing or working in the Project area to excessive noise levels Less-than-Significant Impact
Not Applicable Less-than-Significant
Impact
Population and Housing Impact POP-1: Induce substantial unplanned population growth in an area, either directly (e.g., by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (e.g., through extension of roads or other infrastructure) Less-than-Significant Impact
Not Applicable Less-than-Significant
Impact
Impact POP-2: Displace substantial numbers of existing people or housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere No Impact Not Applicable No Impact
165
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report xlviii Impact Level of Significance Before Mitigation Mitigation Measure Level of Significance After Mitigation Public Services Impact PS-1(a): Result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the following public services: Fire Protection Significant Impact MM-HAZ-6: Traffic Management
Plan
Less-than-Significant Impact
Impact PS-1(b): Result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the following public services: Police Protection Significant Impact MM-HAZ-6: Traffic Management
Plan
Less-than-Significant Impact
Impact PS-1(c): Result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the following public services: Schools Significant Impact MM-HAZ-6: Traffic Management
Plan
Less-than-Significant Impact
Impact PS-1(d): Result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the following public services: Other Public Facilities Significant Impact MM-HAZ-6: Traffic Management
Plan
Less-than-Significant Impact
Recreation Impact REC-1: Increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated Less-than-Significant Impact
Not Applicable Less-than-Significant
Impact
Impact REC-2: Include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities, which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment Less-than-Significant Impact
Not Applicable Less-than-Significant
Impact
Transportation Impact TRA-1: Conflict with a program plan, ordinance or policy addressing the circulation system, including transit, roadway, bicycle and pedestrian facilities Significant Impact MM-HAZ-6: Traffic Management
Plan
Less-than-Significant Impact
166
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report xlix Impact Level of Significance Before Mitigation Mitigation Measure Level of Significance After Mitigation Impact TRA-2: Conflict with or be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines section 15064.3, subdivision (b) Less-than-Significant Impact
Not Applicable Less-than-Significant
Impact
Impact TRA-3: Substantially increase hazards due to a geometric design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment) No Impact Not Applicable No Impact
Impact TRA-4: Result in inadequate emergency access Significant Impact MM-HAZ-6: Traffic Management Plan
Less-than-Significant Impact
Tribal Cultural Resources Impact TCR-1: Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource, defined in PRC §21074 as either a site, feature, place, or cultural landscape that is geographically defined in terms of the size and scope of the landscape, sacred place, or object with cultural value to a California Native American tribe, and that is:
Listed or eligible for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources, or in a local register of historical resources as defined in PRC § 5020.1(k), or A resource determined by the lead agency, in its discretion and supported by substantial evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of PRC §5024.1. In applying the criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of PRC §5024.1, the lead agency will consider the significance of the resource to a California Native American tribe.
Significant Impact MM-TCR-1: Coordination with
Konkow Valley Band of Maidu and Mechoopda Indian Tribe MM-TCR-2: Tribal Cultural Monitoring Less-than-Significant Impact
Utilities and Service systems Impact UTIL-1: Require or result in the relocation or construction of new or expanded water, wastewater treatment, storm water drainage, electric power, natural gas, or telecommunications facilities, the construction or relocation of which could cause significant environmental effects Significant Impact MM-UTIL-1: Minimize Utility and
Service System Disruptions
Less-Than-Significant Impact
Impact UTIL-2: Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the Project and reasonably foreseeable future development during normal, dry and multiple dry years No Impact Not Applicable No Impact
Impact UTIL-3: Result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider, which serves or may serve the Project, that it has inadequate capacity to serve the Project’s projected demand in addition to the provider’s existing commitments No Impact Not Applicable No Impact
Impact UTIL-4: Generate solid waste in excess of State or local standards, or in excess of the capacity of local infrastructure, or otherwise impair the attainment of solid waste reduction goals No Impact Not Applicable No Impact
167
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report l
Impact Level of Significance Before Mitigation Mitigation Measure Level of Significance After Mitigation Impact UTIL-5: Comply with federal, state, and local management and reduction statutes and regulations related to solid waste No Impact Not Applicable No Impact
Wildfire Impact FIRE-1: Substantially impair an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan Significant Impact MM-HAZ-3: Road Closure
Restrictions MM-HAZ-4: Rapid Demobilization Plan MM-HAZ-5: Evacuation Warning Procedures MM-HAZ-6: Traffic Management Plan Less-than-Significant Impact
Impact FIRE-2: Exacerbate wildfire risks due to slope, prevailing winds, and other factors, and thereby expose project occupants to pollutant concentrations from a wildfire or the uncontrolled spread of a wildfire Significant Impact MM-HAZ-1: Vehicle and
Equipment Access and Fueling MM-HAZ-7: Incorporate Fire Prevention Measures MM-HAZ-8: Incorporate Public
Safety Measures MM-HAZ-9: Wildland Fire Area
Less-than-Significant Impact
Impact FIRE-3: Require the installation or maintenance of associated infrastructure (such as roads, fuel breaks, emergency water sources, power lines, or other utilities) that may exacerbate fire risk or that may result in temporary or ongoing impacts to the environment Significant Impact MM-HAZ-1: Vehicle and
Equipment Access and Fueling MM-HAZ-7: Incorporate Fire Prevention Measures MM-HAZ-8: Incorporate Public
Safety Measures MM-HAZ-9: Wildland Fire Area
Less-than-Significant Impact
Impact FIRE-4: Expose people or structures to significant risks, including downslope or downstream flooding or landslides, as a result of runoff, postfire slope instability, or drainage changes Significant Impact MM-HYD-1: Stormwater
Management Plan MM-HYD-3: Flood Protection Plan MM-GEO-1: Minimize Geologic Hazards Less-than-Significant Impact
168
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report li
ES1.11 Environmental Impacts from the Project Alternatives Table ES-3 summarizes the impacts of the alternatives, as described in Section ES1.9, and compares it with the Proposed Projectimpacts. Table ES-3. Comparison of Proposed Project Alternative Impacts Impact Proposed Project No Project Alternative Entler Avenue Hybrid Alternative Crouch Avenue Alternative Entler Avenue Hybrid and Crouch Avenue Alternative Agriculture and Forestry Resources Impact AG-1: Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to nonagricultural use NI NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) NI (=)
Impact AG-2: Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract NI NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) Impact AG-3: Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of, forest land (as defined in Public Resources Code section 12220(g)), timberland (as defined by Public Resources Code section 4526), or timberland zoned Timberland Production (as defined by Government Code section 51104(g)) NI NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) NI (=)
Impact AG-4: Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use NI NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) Impact AG-5: Involve other changes in the existing environment which, due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of Farmland to nonagricultural use or conversion of forest land to non-forest use LTS NI (-) LTS (=) LTS (=) LTS (=)
Air Quality Impact AIR-1: Conflict with or obstruct implementation of an applicable air quality plan NI NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) Impact AIR-2: Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the Project region is non-attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard LTS NI (-) LTS (=) LTS (=) LTS (=)
169
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report lii Impact Proposed Project No Project Alternative Entler Avenue Hybrid Alternative Crouch Avenue Alternative Entler Avenue Hybrid and Crouch Avenue Alternative Impact AIR-3: Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations LTS NI (-) LTS (=) LTS (=) LTS (=) Impact AIR-4: Result in other emissions, such as those leading to odors, adversely affecting a substantial number of people LTS LTS (+) LTS (=) LTS (=) LTS (=)
Biological Resources Impact BIO-1: Substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the CDFW or USFWS S/M NI (-) S/M (+) S/M (=) S/M (+)
Impact BIO-2: Substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, and regulations or by the CDFW or USFWS S/M NI (-) S/M (+) S/M (=) S/M (+)
Impact BIO-3: Substantial adverse effect on state or federally protected wetlands S/M NI (-) NI (-) S/M (+) S/M (+) Impact BIO-4: Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of wildlife nursery sites NI NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) NI (=)
Impact BIO-5: Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance NI NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) NI (=)
Impact BIO-6: Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan NI NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) NI (=)
Cultural Resources Impact CUL-1: Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource pursuant to section 15064.5 LTS NI (-) LTS (=) LTS (=) LTS (=)
Impact CUL-2: Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to section 15064.5 S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
170
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report liii Impact Proposed Project No Project Alternative Entler Avenue Hybrid Alternative Crouch Avenue Alternative Entler Avenue Hybrid and Crouch Avenue Alternative Impact CUL-3: Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries LTS NI (-) LTS (=) LTS (=) LTS (=) Energy Impact ENG-1: Result in potentially significant environmental impact due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy resources, during project construction or operation LTS NI (-) LTS (=) LTS (=) LTS (=)
Impact ENG-2: Conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency NI NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) Geology, Soils, and Paleontological Resources Impact GEO-1(a): Directly or indirectly cause potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving: Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault NI NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) NI (=)
Impact GEO-1(b): Directly or indirectly cause potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving: Strong seismic ground shaking S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
Impact GEO-1(c): Directly or indirectly cause potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving: Seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
Impact GEO-1(d): Directly or indirectly cause potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving: Landslides S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
Impact GEO-2: Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil LTS NI (-) LTS (=) LTS (=) LTS (=) Impact GEO-3: Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the Project, and potentially result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction, or collapse S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
Impact GEO-4: Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial direct or indirect risk to life or property S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
171
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report liv Impact Proposed Project No Project Alternative Entler Avenue Hybrid Alternative Crouch Avenue Alternative Entler Avenue Hybrid and Crouch Avenue Alternative Impact GEO-5: Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of wastewater NI SU (+) NI (=) NI (=) NI (=)
Impact GEO-6: Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=) Greenhouse Gas Emissions Impact GHG-1: Generate GHG emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the environment LTS NI (-) LTS (=) LTS (=) LTS (=)
Impact GHG-2: Conflict with an applicable plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of reduction the emissions of GHG NI NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) NI (=)
Hazards and Hazardous Materials Impact HAZ-1: Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
Impact HAZ-2: Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment LTS NI (-) LTS (=) LTS (=) LTS (=)
Impact HAZ-3: Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school LTS NI (-) LTS (=) LTS (=) LTS (=)
Impact HAZ-4: Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
Impact HAZ-5: For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project result in a safety hazard or excessive noise for people residing or working in the project area NI NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) NI (=)
172
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report lv
Impact Proposed Project No Project Alternative Entler Avenue Hybrid Alternative Crouch Avenue Alternative Entler Avenue Hybrid and Crouch Avenue Alternative Impact HAZ-6: Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
Impact HAZ-7: Expose people or structures, either directly or indirectly, to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
Hydrology and Water Quality Impact HYD-1: Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements or otherwise substantially degrade surface or ground water quality S/M SU (+) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
Impact HYD-2: Substantially decrease groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that the Project may impede sustainable groundwater management of the basin LTS NI (-) LTS (=) LTS (=) LTS (=)
Impact HYD-3(a): Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river or through the addition of impervious surfaces, in a manner which would: Result in substantial erosion or siltation on or off-site S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
Impact HYD-3(b): Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river or through the addition of impervious surfaces, in a manner which would: Substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or off-site S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
Impact HYD-3(c): Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river or through the addition of impervious surfaces, in a manner which would: Create or contribute runoff water that would exceed the capacity of existing or planned storm water drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
173
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report lvi Impact Proposed Project No Project Alternative Entler Avenue Hybrid Alternative Crouch Avenue Alternative Entler Avenue Hybrid and Crouch Avenue Alternative Impact HYD-3(d): Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river or through the addition of impervious surfaces, in a manner which would: Impede or redirect flood flows LTS NI (-) LTS (=) LTS (=) LTS (=)
Impact HYD-4: In flood hazard, risk release of pollutants due to Project inundation S/M SU (+) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=) Impact HYD-5: Conflict with or obstruct implementation of a water quality control plan or sustainable groundwater management plan S/M SU (+) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
Land Use and Planning Impact LU-1: Physically divide an established community NI NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) Impact LU-2: Cause any significant environmental impact due to a conflict with any land use plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect NI NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) NI (=)
Noise and Groundborne Vibration Impact NSE-1: Generate a substantial temporary or permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the Project in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or in applicable standards of other agencies S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (-) S/M (=)
Impact NSE-2: Generate excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (-) S/M (=) Impact NSE-3: Be located within the vicinity of a private airstrip or an airport land-use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or publicuse airport, expose people residing or working in the Project area to excessive noise levels LTS NI (-) NI (-) LTS (+) LTS (+)
Population and Housing Impact POP-1: Induce substantial unplanned population growth in an area, either directly (e.g., by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (e.g., through extension of roads or other infrastructure) LTS NI (-) LTS (=) LTS (=) LTS (=)
174
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report lvii Impact Proposed Project No Project Alternative Entler Avenue Hybrid Alternative Crouch Avenue Alternative Entler Avenue Hybrid and Crouch Avenue Alternative Impact POP-2: Displace substantial numbers of existing people or housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere NI NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) NI (=)
Public Services Impact PS-1(a): Result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the following public services: Fire Protection S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
Impact PS-1(b): Result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the following public services: Police Protection S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
Impact PS-1(c): Result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the following public services: Schools S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
Impact PS-1(d): Result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the following public services: Other Public Facilities S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
175
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report lviii Impact Proposed Project No Project Alternative Entler Avenue Hybrid Alternative Crouch Avenue Alternative Entler Avenue Hybrid and Crouch Avenue Alternative Recreation Impact REC-1: Increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated LTS NI (-) LTS (=) LTS (=) LTS (=)
Impact REC-2: Include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities, which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment LTS NI (-) LTS (=) LTS (=) LTS (=)
Transportation Impact TRA-1: Conflict with a program plan, ordinance or policy addressing the circulation system, including transit, roadway, bicycle and pedestrian facilities S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
Impact TRA-2: Conflict with or be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3, subdivision (b) LTS NI (-) LTS (=) LTS (=) LTS (=) Impact TRA-3: Substantially increase hazards due to a geometric design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment) NI NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) NI (=)
Impact TRA-4: Result in inadequate emergency access S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=) Tribal Cultural Resources Impact TCR-1: Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource, defined in PRC Section 21074 as either a site, feature, place, or cultural landscape that is geographically defined in terms of the size and scope of the landscape, sacred place, or object with cultural value to a California Native American tribe, and that is:
Listed or eligible for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources, or in a local register of historical resources as defined in PRC Section 5020.1(k), or A resource determined by the lead agency, in its discretion and supported by substantial evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of PRC Section 5024.1. In applying the criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of PRC Section 5024.1, the lead agency shall consider the significance of the resource to a California Native American tribe.
S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
176
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report lix Impact Proposed Project No Project Alternative Entler Avenue Hybrid Alternative Crouch Avenue Alternative Entler Avenue Hybrid and Crouch Avenue Alternative Utilities and Service Systems Impact UTIL-1: Require or result in the relocation or construction of new or expanded water, wastewater treatment, storm water drainage, electric power, natural gas, or telecommunications facilities, the construction or relocation of which could cause significant environmental effects S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
Impact UTIL-2: Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the Project and reasonably foreseeable future development during normal, dry and multiple dry years NI NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) NI (=)
Impact UTIL-3: Result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider, which serves or may serve the Project that it has inadequate capacity to serve the Project’s projected demand in addition to the provider’s existing commitments NI NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) NI (=)
Impact UTIL-4: Generate solid waste in excess of state or local standards, or in excess of the capacity of local infrastructure, or otherwise impair the attainment of solid waste reduction goals NI NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) NI (=)
Impact UTIL-5: Comply with federal, state, and local management and reduction statutes and regulations related to solid waste NI NI (=) NI (=) NI (=) NI (=)
Wildfire Impact FIRE-1: Substantially impair an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=) Impact FIRE-2: Exacerbate wildfire risks due to slope, prevailing winds, and other factors, and thereby expose project occupants to pollutant concentrations from a wildfire or the uncontrolled spread of a wildfire S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
Impact FIRE-3: Require the installation or maintenance of associated infrastructure (such as roads, fuel breaks, emergency water sources, power lines, or other utilities) that may exacerbate fire risk or that may result in temporary or ongoing impacts to the environment S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
177
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Executive Summary
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report lx
Impact Proposed Project No Project Alternative Entler Avenue Hybrid Alternative Crouch Avenue Alternative Entler Avenue Hybrid and Crouch Avenue Alternative Impact FIRE-4: Expose people or structures to significant risks, including downslope or downstream flooding or landslides, as a result of runoff, post-fire slope instability, or drainage changes S/M NI (-) S/M (=) S/M (=) S/M (=)
Note: LTS = Less than Significant Impact, NI = No Impact, N/A = Not Applicable, SU = Significant and Unavoidable Impact, S/M = Significant Impact but Mitigable to a Less than Significant Level, (+) indicates a greater level of impacts compared to the Proposed Project; (-) indicates less impacts compared the Proposed Project; (=) indicates the same level of impacts as the Proposed Project
178
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report lxi
ES1.12 Areas of Known Controversy
CEQA Guidelines Section 15123 states that an EIR must identify areas of known controversy that may have been raised by other agencies, the public, or other stakeholders. Areas of communicated controversy related to the Proposed Project or identified in the PEIR scoping process include, but are not limited to:
Growth-inducing impacts, specifically in the City of Chico and rural Butte County outside Town and City limits.
Reconsideration of local treatment plant construction instead of the proposed connection to the Chico WPCP, which was evaluated in 2017 and 2020.
ES1.13 Issues to be Resolved
CEQA Guidelines Section 15123 calls for the lead agency to include issues to be resolved in the EIR, including the choice among alternatives and whether or how to mitigate significant effects. Issues to be resolved related to the Proposed Project or PEIR include, but are not limited to, the following:
Political details of connecting the export pipeline to the Chico WPCP. The Town and the City will enter into an inter-municipal agreement that will capture the mutually determined details of the connection. SRPAC (discussed previously in Section 1.3.2) has developed a principles of agreement document, which captures the overall approaches to various aspects of the connection and will be turned into the formal inter-municipal agreement, which is being completed in parallel with this CEQA process.
Encroachment permits and applicable agreements from Butte County, as needed, for field investigations and installation of the pipeline system located within County rights-of-way.
Applicable easements from private landowners.
Establishing Town administrative procedures to permit future connections to the Proposed Project core collection system.
Establishing Town administrative procedures to permit future connections to the Proposed Project extended collection system.
Establishing sewer standards and regulations for the Town, including operations and maintenance for the core wastewater collection system and export pipeline Project components, as well as the extended collection system service area within Town limits being considered programmatically in this PEIR.
ES1.14 Significant and Unavoidable Impacts
CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.2(c) requires an EIR to discuss significant effects, including those that can be mitigated but not reduced to a level of insignificance. The CEQA Guidelines state that: “[w]here there are impacts that cannot be alleviated without imposing an alternative design, their implications, and reasons why the project is being proposed, notwithstanding their effect, should be described.” Significant impacts would occur for the following resource topic areas: biological resources; cultural resources; geology, soils and paleontological resources; hazards and hazardous materials; hydrology and water quality; noise and groundborne vibration; public services; transportation; tribal cultural 179
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report lxii
resources; utilities and service systems; and wildfire. However, as shown in Table ES-2, all impacts could be mitigated to a less than significant level, and no significant and unavoidable impacts are anticipated.
ES1.15 Environmentally Superior Alternative
CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6 requires that an “environmentally superior” alternative be selected among the alternatives that are evaluated in the EIR. Generally, the environmentally superior alternative is the alternative that would be expected to generate the fewest adverse impacts. For the purpose of this analysis, the alternatives considered are:
Proposed Project
No Project
Entler Avenue Hybrid Alternative – Proposed Project with alternative pipeline alignment for crossing SR 99
Crouch Avenue Alternative – Proposed Project with alternative export pipeline alignment for crossing Little Chico Creek.
Entler Avenue Hybrid and Crouch Avenue Alternative – Proposed Project with alternative pipeline alignment for crossing SR 99 and alternative pipeline alignment for crossing Little Chico Creek.
Based on the results of the alternatives analysis, the Crouch Avenue Alternative would be the environmentally superior alternative because fewer impacts would occur on air quality, noise and groundborne vibration, and biological resources (special-status species and sensitive communities) when compared to the Proposed Project and other action alternatives. However, as noted above, the Crouch Avenue Alternative would also result in a greater level of impacts on state or federally protected wetlands than the Proposed Project. Since impact findings for the Proposed Project and all action alternatives with mitigation incorporated show less than significant impacts or no impacts for all resource areas, selection of any of the three action alternatives would not significantly alter the potential for effects of implementing the Proposed Project.
180
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Introduction
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 1
1. Introduction
This Program Environmental Impact Report (PEIR) has been prepared in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), which is found in the California Public Resources Code (PRC), Division 13; and with the CEQA Guidelines, which are found in the California Code of Regulations, Title 14, beginning with Section 15000. This PEIR has been prepared by the Town of Paradise, California (Town), which is the lead agency for the Paradise Sewer Project (Proposed Project). Per CEQA, the lead agency for a project is the public agency with primary responsibility for carrying out or approving the project as well as implementing CEQA requirements. This PEIR addresses the potential environmental effects of construction and operation of the Proposed Project, which is briefly described below and defined in detail in Chapter 2 of this PEIR.
1.1 CEQA Review and Decision-Making Process
1.1.1 Overview
As the public agency proposing to approve and implement the Proposed Project, the Town is the lead agency under CEQA. The City of Chico (City), Butte Local Agency Formation Commission (Butte LAFCo), Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB), Butte County (County), and California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) are considered Responsible Agencies under CEQA based on their discretionary approval over aspects of the Proposed Project and their utilization of this PEIR for their CEQA compliance. Specifically:
City of Chico: Connection of the proposed wastewater collection and export pipeline components to the Chico Water Pollution Control Plant (Chico WPCP) will require a decision by the City.
Butte LAFCo: State law requires that Butte LAFCo approve services provided outside a public agency’s service area. Therefore, the Proposed Project will require the City and Town to approve an inter-municipal agreement to facilitate the extension of wastewater treatment services from the Chico WPCP to the Town. Butte LAFCo will then make its decision regarding whether to approve the service extension. Details on this extension are included in Chapter 2 of this PEIR.
RWQCB: The RWQCB will rely on this CEQA analysis to make its decision regarding whether to issue a Clean Water Act Section 401 water quality certification for the three proposed water crossings if wetlands, waters of the US, or waters of the State are impacted by the Proposed Project.
Butte County: The County will rely on this CEQA analysis to make its decision on project elements impacting County-owned and maintained rights of way (ROW), including encroachment permits for field investigations and pipeline installation and operations.
CDFW: CDFW will rely on this CEQA analysis to make its decision regarding whether to issue a Fish and Game Code Section 1602 Lake and Streambed Alteration Agreement for the three proposed water crossings. If an incidental take permit is required for potential take of the statelisted Swainson’s hawk, this CEQA process would also support that decision process. 181
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Introduction
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 2
According to CEQA Guidelines 15002, “the basic purposes of CEQA are to:
Inform governmental decision makers and the public about the potential, significant environmental effects of proposed activities.
Identify ways that environmental damage can be avoided or significantly reduced. Prevent significant, avoidable damage to the environment by requiring changes in projects through the use of alternatives or mitigation measures when the governmental agency finds the changes to be feasible.
Disclose to the public the reasons why a governmental agency approved the project in the manner the agency chose if significant environmental effects are involved.” As stated in the CEQA Guidelines Section 15121(a), “an EIR is an informational document which will inform public agency decision makers and the public generally of the significant environmental effects of a project, identify possible ways to minimize significant effects, and describe reasonable alternatives to the project.”
1.1.2 Scope of this Program Environmental Impact Report This EIR functions as a PEIR but includes project-level analysis for those components where sufficient information is available to do so. The Proposed Project for this PEIR is the implementation of the Paradise Sewer Project, namely (1) the construction and operation of a new wastewater collection system for a core area within the Town limits and (2) the construction, operation, and maintenance of an export pipeline from the Town to the City WPCP (Figure 1-1). This PEIR presents a project-level analysis of these two components, detailed descriptions of which are provided in Chapter 2 Project Description. The scope of this PEIR does not include removal or remediation of the existing private septic systems.
The Proposed Project also includes a potential future component that is less defined but is connected in action to the Proposed Project: the construction, operation, and maintenance of an extended wastewater collection service area that would allow landowners with parcels within Town limits, but outside of the initial core collection area, to apply for connection to the proposed sewer system, up to the limits of the sewer system and Chico WPCP capacity. The overall purpose of the Proposed Project is not to serve the entire Town; areas will continue to exist that are served by the existing Onsite Wastewater Management Zone. Instead, the Extended Collection System will provide an opportunity for other property owners within Town limits to connect. The details of extending the sewer system to additional property owners, including the implementation process and final boundaries of service, are not currently defined; therefore, this component is considered at a programmatic level of review.
According to the CEQA Guidelines Section 15168(a), a lead agency should prepare a PEIR when it proposes: (1) a series of related actions that are linked geographically; (2) logical parts of a chain of contemplated events, rules, regulations, or plans that govern the conduct of a continuing program; or (3) individual activities carried out under the same authorizing statutory or regulatory authority and having generally similar environmental effects that can be mitigated in similar ways. 182
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 3
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Introduction
Figure 1-1. Project Location
183
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Introduction
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 4
A PEIR “may be prepared on a series of actions that can be characterized as one large project and are related ... in connection with the issuance of rules, regulations, plans, or other general criteria to govern the conduct of a continuing program” (CEQA Guidelines Section 15168(a)(3)). Because the construction, operation, and maintenance of an extended wastewater collection system is connected and within the context, capacity, and framework of the overall project, the Town is including this action at a programmatic level of analysis in this PEIR to optimize the purpose and scope of this CEQA process as laid out in CEQA Guidelines Section 15168(b).
As such, this PEIR presents two different levels of analysis for different project components. It presents a detailed project-level analysis of the Proposed Project components that consist of the wastewater collection system in the core collection area and export pipeline because sufficient information is available about the characteristics, timing, and locations of these activities. It also presents a more general programmatic analysis of extending the wastewater collection service area beyond the core area to other landowners within Town limits, for which detailed information on the characteristics, timing, and/or locations was not available at the time of PEIR preparation.
1.2 Required Permits and Approvals
The required federal, State, and local permits and approvals to move the Proposed Project forward are listed in Table 1-1.
Table 1-1. Anticipated Required Permits and Approvals
Agency and Jurisdiction Permit, Approval, or Clearance Relevance Federal
US Army Corps of Engineers:
Clean Water Act
Section 404 Permit Permanent or temporary placement and/or removal of material in waters of the US or state, including
wetlands
US Fish and Wildlife Service:
Endangered Species Act
Section 7 Consultation, Letter of
Concurrence
Presence of federally listed plant and wildlife
species and critical habitat within the impact area if
unable to avoid through siting of horizontal
directional drilling or temporary disturbance areas
National Marine Fisheries Service:
Endangered Species Act,
Magnuson Stevens Essential Fish
Habitat
Section 7 Consultation, No Effect
Determination
Intent to pursue no effect determination through
avoidance of federally listed anadromous fish and
critical habitat within the impact area
State Historic Preservation Officer:
Section 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act (NHPA)
Concurrence on adequacy of
identification effort, National
Register of Historic Places
eligibility determinations, and
Finding of Effect
Aligned with federal permits and consultations
Native American Tribes:
Konkow Valley Band of Maidu
Mechoopda Indian Tribe
Tribal consultation per Section 106
of the NHPA
Tribal consultation, aligned with Assembly Bill 52,
Native Americans: California Environmental Quality
Act (AB 52) consultation
State
Native American Tribes:
Konkow Valley Band of Maidu
Mechoopda Indian Tribe
Tribal consultation per AB 52 Tribal consultation, aligned with the CEQA process 184
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Introduction
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 5
Agency and Jurisdiction Permit, Approval, or Clearance Relevance State Water Resources Control
Board
NPDES Construction Stormwater
General Permit
Land disturbance exceeding thresholds
CDFW (Responsible Agency) Section 2081 Incidental Take Permit
Lake and Streambed
Alteration Agreement
Both applications require a
completed CEQA clearance
Presence of state-listed (threatened)
Swainson’s hawks nesting within the
impact area
Three trenchless stream crossings could
trigger the need for a Lake and
Streambed Alteration Agreement due to
risk of frac-out during construction.
California Department of
Transportation
Section 660 of the California
Streets and Highways Code
Specific to the trenchless crossing of Highway 99
by the export pipeline
Local
Butte County (Responsible
Agency)
Approval for installation and
operations and maintenance of the
export pipeline and any
appurtenant facilities located within
County rights of way; specifically,
for encroachment permits within
County rights of way.
Specific to the proposed export pipeline that would
be constructed within Butte County ROW
Private Landowner Permanent or temporary
easements
Specific to the export pipeline installation on two
private parcels in City limits when pipeline would
leave Skyway and to connect portions of the sewer
system to each other within the Core Collection
Area
City of Chico (Responsible
Agency)
Approval to connect the sewer
system to the Chico WPCP
Specific to the export pipeline connection to the
Chico WPCP
RWQCB (Responsible Agency) Water Quality Certification for dredge or fill impacts
Sanitary Sewer General Order
permit
Permanent or temporary placement and/or
removal of material in waters of the US or state,
including wetlands; three proposed trenchless
crossing could trigger the need for a Water
Quality Certification due to risk of frac-out during
construction.
The Town will need coverage under the
General Order as an owner/operator of a
collection system that is longer than 1 mile
Butte LAFCo (Responsible
Agency)
Approval to extend the Chico
sewer service area
Extension of the Chico sewer service area to
include Town
Other
Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) Permit or Easement Agreement Specific to the export pipeline use of an abandoned UPRR parcel when leave Skyway and trenchless
export pipeline crossing of active UPRR track
1.3 Agency Coordination and the Public Involvement Process
1.3.1 Public Scoping
CEQA encourages an early consultation or scoping process to help identify the range of actions, alternatives, mitigation measures, and significant effects to be analyzed and considered in an EIR, and to help resolve the concerns of affected regulatory agencies, organizations, and the public. Scoping is 185
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Introduction
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 6
designed to explore issues for environmental evaluation, ensuring that important considerations are not overlooked and uncovering concerns that might otherwise go unrecognized.
Therefore, the first step in the EIR process is to solicit public input regarding the scope and content of environmental information to be included in the EIR. As the CEQA lead agency, the Town circulated a Notice of Preparation (NOP) from May 3 to June 3, 2021 (Appendix A NOP Scoping Report). The NOP notified the public that the PEIR was being prepared and provided information regarding the public comment period and how the public could provide comments on the scope of the PEIR, project location, project background, project description, and the probable environmental effects of the Proposed Project. The NOP was posted at the State Clearinghouse (SCH# 2021050008) and circulated to public agencies and other interested parties in compliance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15082(a).
The NOP was also posted on the project website at www.paradisesewer.com. Due to restrictions under State of California Executive Order N-33-20, scoping for the Proposed Project occurred under Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) restrictions; therefore, electronic postings, virtual meetings and physical mailings were the appropriate venues for information distribution.
The Town received comment letters from the following organizations in response to the NOP:
Butte LAFCo, dated May 20, 2021
CDFW, dated May 24, 2021
Central Valley Flood Protection Board, dated May 28, 2021 Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), dated May 3, 2021 Paradise Irrigation District, dated June 4, 2021
Butte County Department of Development Services, dated May 27, 2021 The Town hosted two virtual public scoping meetings to seek public and stakeholder input on the environmental scope of the Proposed Project. The first virtual public meeting took place on May 13, 2021, and included 29 public attendees. The second virtual public meeting took place on May 25, 2021, and included 14 public attendees. Public meeting attendees were encouraged to ask questions and provide input on the Proposed Project and process. Nine comments were provided during the public meetings. Commonly asked questions were related to potential Proposed Project costs to property owners within the Town and if the Proposed Project would be able to handle future growth in the Town.
Additionally, several commenters requested more information about current funding sources for the Proposed Project, the pipeline route, and recommendations for property owners considering constructing septic tank systems before Proposed Project construction. Comments were also received via email (1 comment) and on the project website (14 comments) during the public scoping period.
Overall, 26 individual commenters submitted 68 comments during the public scoping period. After the scoping period, and as COVID-19 restrictions allowed, the Town continued to accept comments via inperson meetings and email.
Appendix A includes a scoping report that summarizes comments received in response to the NOP and at the public scoping meetings.
186
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Introduction
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 7
1.3.2 Sewer Regionalization Project Advisory Committee Coordination As a means of advancing the concept of the Town discharging its wastewater to the Chico WPCP, the Paradise Town Council and Chico City Council formed a Sewer Regionalization Project Advisory Committee (SRPAC). The SRPAC consists of two Council members each from the City and Town (totaling four members). The role of the SRPAC has been to develop principles of agreement for the City to provide the Town with wastewater treatment services; this effort has been completed. These principles of agreement will now be used to create an inter-municipal agreement to be approved by both the Town and City Councils. The prerequisites for, and required contents of, an inter-municipal agreement for regulation of waste received from other jurisdictions are defined in the Chico, California Code of Ordinances, Code 15.40.285. The SRPAC will also monitor overall progress of the Proposed Project, including the PEIR process and associated public comment periods, and will provide updates and recommendations to the two councils. The RWQCB facilitates SRPAC activities and meetings, which are generally held bimonthly and publicly noticed.
1.3.3 Stakeholder Engagement
The Town met with Responsible Agencies, stakeholder agencies, stakeholders, and the public during the planning process to clarify concerns, identify opportunities, refine the Proposed Project definition, and otherwise optimize the planning process. Engagements included:
The Town met with Butte LAFCo to discuss the proposed extension of the City’s sewer service area and the approval process.
The Town met with the RWQCB to discuss its interest in the Proposed Project, agreements with the City and funding opportunities. The Town otherwise participates regularly in the RWQCB’s SRPAC meetings, as discussed in Section 1.3.2.
The Town met with the City to discuss concurrent planning of the Chico WPCP improvements. The Town Public Works/Engineering Department, which is leading the Proposed Project, met with Susan Hartman of the Town’s Planning Department to discuss the Town’s existing Onsite Wastewater Management Zone district (which covers existing septic tank systems) and the status of The Town of Paradise 1994 General Plan As Amended Through 2008 (Town of Paradise General Plan or General Plan; Town of Paradise and Quad Consultants 2008) update, including the Housing Element update in progress at that time. The Town met separately with County Supervisors Tod Kimmelshue, Bill Connelly, and Doug Teeter to introduce and provide clarity regarding Proposed Project components. Another meeting was held for the same purpose with County Supervisors Debra Lucero and Tami Ritter, as well as County staff members Paula Daneluk and Joshua Pack. The Town offered opportunities for community group presentations on its website. Rotary Club of Chico and the Chico Chamber of Commerce each requested presentations and were provided with project--specific presentations and facilitation for questions/answer sessions. Each month, the Town provided written progress updates and presentations as requested to Butte LAFCo, Butte County Board of Supervisors, and the Town Council for their regular agendas.
The Proposed Project received formal letters of support from the following organizations/ agencies:
187
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Introduction
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 8
o 3Core
o Butte County Board of Supervisors
o Chico Chamber of Commerce
o League of California Cities Sacramento Valley Division o North Valley Community Foundation
o Paradise Citizen’s Alliance
o Paradise Chamber of Commerce
o Paradise Irrigation District
o Paradise Unified School District
o Rebuild Paradise Foundation
o Valley Contractor’s Exchange
The Paradise Sewer Project website (www.paradisesewer.com) includes an open invitation for stakeholders and the public to engage on the Proposed Project. The Town met with various stakeholders to provide clarity, receive comments or concerns, or provide updates on the process.
1.3.4 Tribal Consultation
PRC 21080.3.1 and Assembly Bill 52, Native Americans: California Environmental Quality Act (AB 52) require formal consultation with California Native American tribes during the CEQA process for projects that have an NOP filed on or after July 1, 2015, because “California Native American tribes traditionally and culturally affiliated with a geographic area may have expertise concerning their tribal cultural resources” (PRC 21080.3.1[a]). “California Native American tribe” refers to a Native American tribe located in California that is on the contact list maintained by the California NAHC (PRC 21073). The purpose of tribal consultation is to determine, as part of the CEQA review process, whether tribal cultural resources (TCRs) are present within a project area, and if so, whether the project will significantly impact those resources. If TCRs may be significantly impacted, then consultation will also help determine the most appropriate way to avoid or mitigate those impacts.
To fulfill obligations pursuant to PRC 21080.3.1(b) and (c), on April 26, 2021, the Town requested assistance from the NAHC to identify California Native American tribes that are traditionally and culturally affiliated with the Proposed Project area. On April 27, 2021, the NAHC provided a list of California Native American tribes in support of these efforts. The Town sent notification letters via certified mail on May 10, 2021, to each of the contacts identified by NAHC, providing a brief description of the Proposed Project and an opportunity to request consultation.
Chairperson Jessica Lopez of the Konkow Valley Band of Maidu noted via a telephone call on May 14, 2021, the Tribe’s desire to consult on the Proposed Project. Tribal Historic Preservation Officer (THPO) Kyle McHenry of the Mechoopda Indian Tribe confirmed via a telephone call and email on May 25, 2021, the Tribe’s desire to consult on the Proposed Project. Chairperson Lopez and THPO McHenry agreed to a joint consultation meeting with the Town, and an initial consultation meeting was held virtually on August 10, 2021. The Town agreed to provide additional information so the Konkow Valley Band of Maidu and the Mechoopda Indian Tribe could review their respective internal databases and other information for potential TCRs within the Proposed Project area, and the Town provided the requested information via email on August 16, 2021. The Town and HDR Engineering, Inc. (HDR), the 188
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Introduction
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 9
Town’s consultants, provided confidential meeting notes to all participants of this meeting, as well as materials requested for further review by the Tribes.
A subsequent joint consultation meeting was coordinated via email and phone calls, and a meeting was held virtually on September 9, 2021. Both Tribes indicated they had reviewed the materials provided by the Town. THPO McHenry identified a concern for potential Proposed Project-related impacts in sensitive areas and requested incorporation of measures for the Proposed Project to retain Tribal Cultural Monitors during construction activities in sensitive areas designated by the Tribes. Chairperson Lopez stated a concern for sensitive plant species that may be considered TCR and requested relevant biological assessment information for review to provide any necessary information related to TCR identification or impact avoidance. The Town agreed to provide the biological assessment information, as well as the draft TCR section language to both Tribes for review.
Additional phone calls and emails were exchanged, and as a result, updates were made to the cultural resources report to address concerns regarding the potential for rediscovery of cultural resources that had been previously recorded but not relocated during survey. Matthew Gramps-Williford, Vice Chair and Cultural Resources Director of the Konkow Valley Maidu Band, requested an in-person consultation meeting with the Town and HDR. The meeting was held on December 20, 2021, at the Town’s offices. Chairperson Lopez concluded AB 52 consultation on January 13, 2022, and THPO Kyle McHenry concluded AB 52 consultation on January 14, 2022, with the understanding that communication between the Town and the Konkow Valley Band of Maidu and Mechoopda Indian Tribe will continue with regard to the commitments made in this PEIR, which include coordination with both Tribes for identifying sensitive areas and Tribal Cultural Monitoring during construction. As part of continued communication, the Town reached out to the Tribes on April 7, 2022, via email from HDR, to solicit input and hear concerns regarding potential impacts to TCRs caused by a change to the pipeline alignment for the Proposed Project.
1.3.5 Draft Environmental Impact Report
The Town has issued a Notice of Availability to provide agencies and the public with formal notification that the Draft PEIR is available for review and comment. Stakeholders and the public may request printed copies of the Draft PEIR and selected appendices at the following websites: Town of Paradise or Town of Paradise Sewer Project. Printed copies of the Draft PEIR and all appendices are available for review at the following locations:
Town Clerk at Paradise Town Hall (5555 Skyway, Paradise, CA 95969) City Clerk at Chico (411 Main Street, Chico, CA 95928) Butte County Library, Chico Branch (1108 Sherman Ave, Chico, CA 95926) Butte County Library, Paradise Branch (5922 Clark Rd, Paradise, CA 95969) The Town is circulating this Draft PEIR for a 45-day public review and comment period (July 14, 2022 to August 29, 2022) and will host three public meetings during this period; two meetings will be held in Paradise and one meeting will be held in Chico (dates and times of meetings will be posted at paradisesewer.com). The purpose of public circulation and the public meetings is to provide agencies and interested individuals with opportunities to comment on Draft PEIR contents. 189
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Introduction
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 10
Comments should be emailed or postmarked at the earliest possible date; written comments or questions concerning this Draft PEIR should be mailed or emailed during this review period and should be directed to the name and address listed below: comments should be e-mailed or postmarked at the earliest possible date, but no later than 45 calendar days from release of the Draft PEIR (August 29, 2022), to:
Marc Mattox, Director of Public Works
Town of Paradise
5555 Skyway
Paradise, CA 95969
530-872-6291 Ext. 125
[email protected]
Written comments received on the Draft PEIR will be included and addressed in the Final PEIR.
1.3.6 Final Program Environmental Impact Report
The Town will be considering adoption of the Final PEIR at an open Town Council meeting to be held on November 7, 2022. The Final PEIR is hosted online at Town of Paradise or Town of Paradise Sewer. Printed copies of the Draft PEIR and all appendices are available for review at the following locations:
Town Clerk at Paradise Town Hall (5555 Skyway, Paradise, CA 95969) City Clerk at Chico (411 Main Street, Chico, CA 95928) Butte County Library, Chico Branch (1108 Sherman Ave, Chico, CA 95926) Butte County Library, Paradise Branch (5922 Clark Rd, Paradise, CA 95969) If adopted and certified at the Town Council meeting on November 7, a Notice of Determination will be filed with the County, City and Town clerks within five (5) working days after approval of the project. The Notice of Determination would be posted at the clerk offices for a period of 30 days (November 8, 2022 to December 8, 2022); a hardcopy of the full Final PEIR will be available at paradisesewer.com and at the locations noted above. “The filing of the Notice of Determination… and the filing and posting of the Notice of Determination for local agencies, start a 30-day statute of limitations on court challenges to the approval under CEQA” (CEQA Guidelines 15094 (g)).
1.4 Areas of Known Controversy
CEQA Guidelines Section 15123 states that an EIR must identify areas of known controversy that may have been raised by other agencies, the public, or other stakeholders. Areas of communicated controversy related to the Proposed Project or identified in the PEIR scoping process include, but are not limited to:
Growth-inducing impacts, specifically in the City of Chico and rural Butte County outside Town and City limits.
Reconsideration of local treatment plant construction instead of the proposed connection to the Chico WPCP, which was evaluated in 2017 and 2020.
1.5 Issues to be Resolved
190
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Introduction
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 11
CEQA Guidelines Section 15123 calls for the lead agency to include issues to be resolved in the EIR, including the choice among alternatives and whether or how to mitigate significant effects. Issues to be resolved related to the Proposed Project or PEIR include, but are not limited to, the following:
Political details of connecting the export pipeline to the Chico WPCP. The Town and the City will enter into an inter-municipal agreement that will capture the mutually determined details of the connection. SRPAC (discussed previously in Section 1.3.2) has developed a principles of agreement document, which captures the overall approaches to various aspects of the connection. The principles of agreement will be turned into the formal inter-municipal agreement.
Approval by Butte LAFCo for the service extension beyond the boundaries of Chico to allow the City to provide wastewater treatment services to the Town (Section 2.5 Project Components). Permits and applicable agreements from the County, as needed, for installation and maintenance of the pipeline system located within County rights of way (ROW). Applicable easements from private landowners.
Establishing administrative procedures for public connection to the core wastewater collection system.
191
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Introduction
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 12
Establishing administrative procedures for the Town to permit future connections to the Proposed Project extended collection system.
Establishing sewer standards and regulations for the Town, including operations and maintenance for the core wastewater collection system and export pipeline Project components, as well as the extended service area within Town limits being considered programmatically in this PEIR.
1.6 Organization of the Environmental Impact Report
The content and format of this PEIR are designed to meet the requirements of CEQA and the CEQA Guidelines Sections 15122 through 15132. This PEIR is organized into the following chapters:
Executive Summary: Presents an overview of the Proposed Project, summarizes the impacts of the Proposed Project and mitigation measures, summarizes the alternatives being considered, and discusses known areas of controversy and any issues to be resolved. Chapter 1, Introduction: Explains the CEQA process, describes the scope and purpose of this PEIR, explains the approach to both the project and programmatic levels of environmental analysis, provides information on the review and approval process, and outlines the organization of this PEIR.
Chapter 2, Project Description: Provides information about the location, setting, and background of the Proposed Project; identifies project-specific objectives; and provides a detailed description of the Proposed Project components and its construction and operation. Chapter 3, Environmental Impact Analysis: Explains the general approach used in impact analysis and provides the environmental setting, impacts, and mitigation measures for the topics identified for detailed analysis in this PEIR. Section 3.1.5, Impacts Found to Be Not Significant, describes the topics that do not warrant further analysis. Subsequent sections pertain to the environmental resource topics for which a detailed analysis is provided, and each section presents information in three parts: environmental setting, method of analysis, and impact analysis. Materials cited in each resource area are listed following that specific section; a full list of references for all resources is also included in Chapter 7, References. Chapter 4, Other CEQA Considerations: Evaluates additional topics required to be included in an EIR, including irreversible impacts, significant and unavoidable impacts, growth-inducing impacts, and cumulative impacts.
Chapter 5, Alternatives: Evaluates alternatives to the Proposed Project that would eliminate or substantially reduce significant impacts identified in this PEIR while reasonably attaining Proposed Project objectives. Alternatives that were reviewed but eliminated from further consideration in the PEIR are also discussed.
Chapter 6, List of Preparers: Identifies individuals who were involved in preparing this PEIR. Chapter 7, References: Provides a comprehensive list of all reference materials cited in this PEIR.
Appendices: Contains additional information used in preparing this EIR. o Appendix A: NOP Scoping Report
o Appendix B: Town of Paradise 1994 General Plan Resolution and Amendments 192
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Introduction
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 13
o Appendix C: Regulatory Framework
o Appendix D: Emissions Modeling
o Appendix E: Vegetation Community Descriptions and Special-Status Species Accounts Attachment 1: Aquatic Resources and Vegetation Communities Mapbook Attachment 2: Database Queries
Attachment 3: Sensitive Biological Resources Table
o Appendix F: Swainson’s Hawk Survey and Elderberry Shrub Mapping Report o Appendix G: Tribal Consultation
o Appendix H: Pump Station Energy Consumption Calculation o Appendix I: Public Comments and Responses on Draft PEIR
193
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Introduction
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 14
Page Intentionally Blank
194
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 15
2. Project Description
The Town is proposing to construct, operate, and maintain a new sewer collection system within the Town limits, with an export pipeline from the Town to the Chico WPCP. The Proposed Project would allow for the replacement of individual septic systems within the Town’s sewer service area that are managed, owned, and maintained by individual property owners. This Proposed Project further includes the provision of wastewater treatment services from the City to the Town, to be approved by Butte LAFCo.
Specifically, the Proposed Project would consist of three primary components. The first two components (Figure ES-1) are analyzed at a project level because sufficient information is available regarding the characteristics, timing, and locations of these proposed facilities. The third component is analyzed at a programmatic level. The three components include the following and are detailed further in Section 2.5:
1. Core Collection System: The Core Collection System would consist of pipelines and 28 small pump stations (also referred to as lift stations) to serve approximately 1,500 individual parcels within the Town’s core sewer service area. The Core Collection System would include construction of sewer mains (buried gravity and pressure lines), sewer laterals extending from sewer mains to individual properties, maintenance holes, and pump stations along the sewer mains. Most of the facilities would be located within the Town right-of-way (ROW), although limited temporary or permanent easements may be required from private landowners to install components of the Core Collection System, such as pipelines or pump stations. The parcels served would include Residential, Commercial, Industrial, Community Service, Public Institutional, and Recreational land use designations.
2. Export Pipeline System: The 18-mile Export Pipeline System is proposed to convey wastewater from the Core Collection System to the Chico WPCP. The Export Pipeline System would be comprised of the sewer pipeline, a transition chamber, a flow control and metering structure, a fiber-optic conduit that will run the length of the pipeline, and maintenance holes.
There are no pump stations required along the Export Pipeline System. Most of the sewer pipeline would be installed by open-trench construction methods, with five trenchless (tunneled) crossings at locations described in Section 2.5.2. The Export Pipeline System would terminate with connection to the existing Chico WPCP.
3. Extended Collection System: The Extended Collection System would be an extension of the Core Collection System that would allow parcels within the Town limits to connect to the sewer system up to the capacity of the system infrastructure and the Town's allocation within the Chico WPCP capacity. The number of pump stations would be dependent on the locations of the sewer connections within the Town boundaries.
The Extended Collection System is conceptual in definition; the characteristics, timing, and/or locations of the necessary buried gravity and pressure lines, maintenance holes, and pump stations are not available at the time of this PEIR preparation; therefore, the Extended Collection System build-out is analyzed at a programmatic level. Once the Extended Collection 195
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 16
System construction is defined, the Town would consider whether subsequent CEQA documentation is required.
Although not a physical change to the environment, and therefore, not assessed in this PEIR, the Proposed Project would require multiple agency agreements and approvals. The City and Town will enter into an inter-municipal agreement to define the contractual terms for the provision of wastewater treatment services from the Chico WPCP to the Town. The prerequisites for, and required contents of, an inter-municipal agreement for regulation of waste received from other jurisdictions are defined in the Chico, California Code of Ordinances, Code 15.40.285. Further, as discussed in Section 1.3.2, Sewer Regionalization Project Advisory Committee, the SRPAC has developed principles of agreement for the City to provide the Town with wastewater treatment services. These principles of agreement will now be used to create the inter-municipal agreement to be approved by both the Town and City Councils. In addition, the proposed Export Pipeline System will also require a formal agreement or other mechanism for the construction and maintenance of facilities within the Butte County-maintained rights-of-way.
Finally, Butte LAFCo must approve the extension of services beyond the boundaries of Chico to allow the City to provide wastewater treatment services to the Town. Government Code Section 56133(a) provides that “a city or district may provide new or extended services by contract or agreement outside its jurisdictional boundary only if it first requests and receives written approval from the commission of the county (LAFCo) in which the affected territory is located”. Provisions for extension of service requests are found in Government Code Section 56133 and in Section 4.5 of the LAFCo Policies and Procedures. Service extensions outside of an agency's Sphere of Influence may only be approved by a LAFCo to respond to “an existing or impending threat to the health or safety of the public or the residents of the affected territory” (Government Code Section 56133[c]). Should the sewer service extension be approved by Butte LAFCo for the proposed sewer service area within the Town’s boundary, any future adjustments to that boundary or additional sewer connections would require the consent of the City as the contracted provider and Butte LAFCo as the approving authority for the service extension request.
The project does not include removal of the existing septic systems which would be replaced by the Proposed Project sewer system.
2.1 Project Location
Paradise is within eastern Butte County, California, in the western foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Topography is characterized by intervening ridges and valleys sloping to the southwest, with elevations ranging from around 1,080 to 2,320 feet. The Town is bordered on the east by the western branch of the Feather River and on the west by Little Butte Creek. It is approximately 12 miles east of Chico, 20 miles northwest of Oroville, and 90 miles north of Sacramento. The Town is connected to Chico via Skyway, a Butte County roadway, and to Oroville via California State Route (SR) 191, which is known as Clark Road upon entering the Town from the south (Figure ES-1).
Chico, also in Butte County, sits on the Sacramento Valley floor, close to the foothills of the Sierra Nevada range to the east. Chico’s terrain is generally flat, with increasingly hilly terrain beginning at the 196
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 17Figure 2-1. Proposed Project Location Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
197
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 18
eastern City limits. Chico is traversed by two creeks: Big Chico and Little Chico Creeks. These waterbodies discharge into the Sacramento River (Figure ES-1). SRs 32 and 99 comprise Chico’s regional transportation network. SR 32 connects Chico residents to Glenn and Plumas Counties to the west and east, respectively. SR 99 connects residents to Tehama and Sutter Counties to the north and south, respectively. Chico is the most populous city in Butte County, with a population of 102,892 in January 2022 (California Department of Finance [DOF] 2022).
2.2 Project Background
Paradise’s population peaked at 26,465 in 2000 (Biggest US Cities 2022) and it has long been considered a “bedroom” community (a residential suburb inhabited largely by people who commute to a nearby city for work) to Chico. For a number of years, the Town has pursued a municipal solution for wastewater treatment to address failed septic systems that have degraded local groundwater quality and constrained affordable housing, essential community services, and overall economic growth.
Reliance on septic systems has resulted in two areas of concern: environmental impacts and economic impediment. Failed septic systems can release untreated wastewater into groundwater at the ground surface or cause pipe failures in buildings, resulting in environmental degradation and public health risk due to water contamination or exposure to untreated wastewater. Economically, the lack of a sewer system has suppressed the development of a sustainable business community by limiting the size and types of businesses that can affordably operate in the community. Development of affordable housing and workforce housing has also been hindered as larger housing facilities require more sewer treatment capacity than a traditional septic system can provide within the available parcel sizes.
Considering these concerns, the Town worked diligently for more than 50 years, even prior to its incorporation in 1979, to identify a feasible wastewater treatment solution for the community, with a priority to provide service to those commercial and densely populated residential areas with failing septic systems.
2.2.1 Pre-Fire History
In 1983, James M. Montgomery, Consulting Engineers, conducted a Phase I wastewater management study for the Town to identify existing and potential water quality or public health problems associated with the continued use of individually managed on-site wastewater treatment systems (Montgomery 1983). Results of this study showed evidence of high levels of fecal coliform and septic system effluent in the water supply, resulting in degradation of water quality. Therefore, this study recommended that a sewer system or centralized wastewater management facility be considered for the Town (Montgomery 1983).
This Phase I report found that the most severe water quality degradation occurred in the Upper and Middle Honey Run and Lower Skyway basins underlying the Town, which encompass approximately 1,000 acres of dense commercial development (Montgomery 1983). The report recommended that centralized wastewater management facilities be considered for these areas. The principal objective of a subsequent supplementary Phase I report titled Wastewater Management Study Supplementary Phase I Report (Tchobanoglous 1984), was to further assess the need for centralized wastewater management facilities along the Skyway corridor, where there was evidence of localized deterioration of water quality. This report also recommended that as the Town continued to develop, centralized 198
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 19
facilities should be located along portions of the Central Skyway area, primarily due to the hydrogeological limitations of the area. The report concluded that the Town needed to develop a longrange plan for “providing centralized wastewater management in the central Skyway area, as future commercial development may not be possible without a wastewater treatment facility” (Tchobanoglous 1984).
In 1985, the Wastewater Management Plan Phase II Report evaluated alternatives and provided recommendations to manage wastewater disposal (R.A. Ryder & Associates 1985). While the first two Phase I reports focused primarily on Skyway, this report adds that Clark Road commercial and industrial areas would also need treatment in the future due to shallow soils and the increased capacity for density in the future (R.A. Ryder & Associates 1985).
Continued study of the feasibility of different types of treatment and collection were the subject of a later report (Kennedy/Jenks/Chilton 1989). The recommendation was to proceed with the formation of a Special Assessment District to fund the design and construction of a conventional gravity sewer system for Skyway and Clark commercial corridors within Paradise, with an aerated lagoon system and an advanced treatment system for further treatment prior to discharge (Kennedy/Jenks/Chilton 1989).
On October 25, 1990, via Town of Paradise Resolution No. 90-47, the Town Council officially formed a Wastewater Design Assessment District for the purpose of developing a wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal facility. The proposed sewer system was to serve only the core commercial area of the community. However, in 1992, plans to continue with the sewer system were stopped due to a proposed assessment and related political recall, coupled with the Town having a viable plan to selfgovern and restrict septic systems on site (Town of Paradise 2012).
In a letter dated May 4, 1992, the RWQCB approved the Town’s plans to establish an “Onsite Wastewater Management Zone” to address public health and environmental concerns noted in previous studies (RWQCB 1992). The purpose of the formation of this zone, which remains in existence today, was to identify, permit, inspect, monitor, and regulate repairs and new construction of on-site wastewater systems that are required for new development (Town of Paradise 2022a). At its inception, the maximum number of new equivalent units allowed in the zone was 3,040, with an approximate flow of 0.9 million gallons per day (mgd). This was in addition to the number of existing systems to be served by the zone at the time, which was approximately equal to 10,500, with an approximate flow equal to
1.5 mgd (RWQCB 1992). As of 2021, the zone currently permits and regulates more than 11,000 various wastewater systems. The collective individual septic systems vary in complexity, from standard septic tanks and absorption fields to small biological wastewater treatment systems (Town of Paradise 2022a). Because the core collection area includes only a small percentage of the 11,000 existing wastewater systems, and connection to the sewer system by other properties in Town, but outside of the core collection area, is only part of a proposed future program under consideration at this time, the wastewater management zone would remain in place for those parcels which would not or had not yet connected to the sewer system.
In 1994, the Town released the Town of Paradise General Plan (Town of Paradise and Quad Consultants 2008). The version of the General Plan being used in this PEIR includes amendments through 2008, hence the 2008 publishing date. References to multi-family housing, particularly affordable housing and promoting economic development and development that would include public 199
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 20
services and infrastructure can be found in Chapter 4.0 (Quad Consultants 2008). The Town also confirmed “it is an objective of the General Plan to fully implement and sustain the operations of the town onsite wastewater management district” (Town of Paradise and Quad Consultants 2008).
Amendments to the Town of Paradise General Plan since 1994 can be found in Appendix B Town of Paradise 1994 General Plan Resolution and Amendments and are assumed incorporated when referenced in this document.
After establishing a self-regulating wastewater management zone for the individual septic systems, the Town’s desire to provide a municipal sewer treatment infrastructure in the high-risk septic failure areas remained. In 2000, The Town published a Downtown Revitalization Master Plan, which identified inadequate septic systems and capacity deficiencies on many commercial properties as a key deterrent to increased business activity (Town of Paradise 2000). As a result, the Town issued a Downtown Revitalization Area Clustered Wastewater Treatment System(s) Master Plan (Town of Paradise 2004); however, it was not implemented due to a variety of factors, including funding and availability of suitable land for disposal sites. Another study, Final Wastewater Treatment & Collection Feasibility Study for the Town of Paradise Downtown Community Cluster System, was prepared (NorthStar Engineering 2010).
This report analyzed the feasibility and cost associated with the construction of a community wastewater collection system designed to serve a defined area that would transport the wastewater to an off-site location. All the economic analyses conducted through 2010 had concurred that eliminating reliance on individual septic systems would allow businesses to develop and expand based upon the needs of the business and customer demand, instead of being subject to the strict limitations of on-site wastewater disposal.
On August 2, 2011, the Town Council considered and discussed a Council Agenda Summary prepared by key Town staff, providing an outline of three primary conceptual options for a community wastewater system for the Town’s downtown area and other Town commercial corridors. These three options included: (1) a Septic Tank Effluent Pump collection system with construction of a secondary treatment plant located within Town limits; (2) partnership with the owner of an 18-hole golf course located on lower Skyway, including wastewater re-use for the golf course irrigation and a potential future housing development project; and (3) an arrangement between the jurisdictions of the City and Town to allow the Town to tie into the City’s existing sewer collection system. At the conclusion of the Town Council meeting, the council directed staff to further research the advantages and disadvantages for Options 2 and 3 (partnership with golf course owner and arrangement with the City, respectively). Since 2011, Option 2 evolved into four separate local alternatives being assessed by the Town; results of these assessments are included in Section 5.2 of this document. Option 3 has advanced as the current Proposed Project.
Concurrent to and since the Town’s numerous wastewater management studies, public health, economic, and environmental impacts associated with septic system usage continue to persist.
One example of a system limitation is the long-standing challenges faced by restaurants forced to rely on temporary holding tanks. In a 2017 alternative analysis and feasibility study conducted for the Town, it was reported that “businesses without access (to a sewer system) must operate a holding tank to be pumped on a regular basis and hauled to a septage receiving facility. Commercial property owners that cannot afford these options will likely have businesses fail as they cannot be re-sold without a viable 200
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 21
Figure 2-2. Pine Grove Mobile Home Park Effluent
sewer system. This is the fate for many of
the businesses in the main corridors of the
Town as systems fail” (Bennett Engineering
2017). In some cases, restaurants have
been forced to pump their tanks every week
or two weeks, which is cost-prohibitive,
partially due to the inability to expand their
businesses due to small parcel restrictions.
This contributed to some restaurant
closings, such as at La Comida’s Paradise
location, which closed in September 2018
(Urseny 2018).
An example of a system failure would be the
pervasive issues at a local mobile home
park. In late 2000 and early 2001, Pine
Grove Mobile Home Park began
experiencing systemic failures associated
with their on-site wastewater disposal
system. These failures resulted in surfacing
effluent and significant public health
hazards. Historical documentation of this location indicates numerous warnings, citations, and corrective actions were required. The mobile home park was also a source for complaints of these hazards adjacent to a seasonal stream and children’s park. In 2007, an alternative septic system was installed; however, issues with the site continued. In 2015, multiple complaints were received and subsequently observed by wastewater professionals. Inspections revealed the system was failing, causing wastewater overflows and backups through showers and toilets (Figure 2-2). On May 15, 2015, the Town received a Code Enforcement complaint from a public health nurse related to an entire family at the property experiencing symptoms of cryptosporidium contamination (fecal-oral parasites). The Pine Grove Mobile Home Park was entirely destroyed in the 2018 Camp Fire, making attempts at septic resolution infeasible.
As recently as 2017, the Town completed another feasibility study, which evaluated advancing a sustainable wastewater solution for the benefit of the Town’s economy, environment, and community.
The Town of Paradise Sewer Project, Alternatives Analysis and Feasibility Report: Determining a Preferred Option for Implementation (Bennett Engineering 2017) analyzed several options, including a “No Project” option, and identified the most feasible solution and next steps. Three local options and the Chico WPCP regional connection option were analyzed to address sewer service reliability problems and select the best alternative for the Town to carry forward to district formation, preliminary design, and environmental review. Some of the additional efforts included in this study that prior studies did not include were public outreach and engagement, and a socioeconomic study to assess both the beneficial economic aspects of building a major infrastructure project and the negative economic aspects of the “No Project” option. The socioeconomic study projected benefits to the Town and region, including an additional 161 jobs, additional $12.8 million in sales and output to the region in all sectors, 201
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 22
regional long-term impact of $68 million in private and public investment, and $56 million increase in the property tax base (Bennett Engineering 2017). The study also predicted a 5 to 13 percent property value increase for parcels within the sewer district. The regional connection to the Chico WPCP was recommended by the study as the best long-term solution for the Town (Bennett Engineering 2017).
2.2.2 Post-Fire History
On November 8, 2018, the Camp Fire severely impacted the Town. More than 26,000 Town residents were displaced; 90 percent of structures in the Town, including more than 11,000 homes and 1,000 businesses, were burned to the ground; and, most tragically, 85 people lost their lives.
Prior to the 2018 Camp Fire, the Town population was 26,423, making it the second most populated city in the County and the largest unsewered community in California (Butte County Association of Governments [BCAG] 2019a). Following the 2018 Camp Fire, population estimates dropped 83 percent to 4,474 in 2019 (DOF 2021a); in 2021, the recovering population had only grown to 6,046 residents (DOF 2021b). Although this demonstrated a 35 percent population increase over 2 years (2019 to 2021), it still reflected a 77 percent drop in population from pre-fire conditions. The 2018 Camp Fire affected the Town’s business and management operations as resources were redirected toward recovery, which temporarily delayed further development of a municipal wastewater solution for the Town. Concurrently, private septic systems within the Town were found to be damaged by the fire, which in turn further degraded local groundwater quality and compounded the pre-fire sewer needs.
These additional impacts from the Camp Fire again constrained affordable housing, essential community services, and overall economic growth, while the Town endeavored to rebuild without a municipal sewer system in place.
In response to the 2018 Camp Fire, the Town was gifted the funds for a contract through the North Valley Community Foundation and Butte Strong Fund to prepare a Long-Term Community Recovery Plan (LTCRP) (Town of Paradise 2019). LTCRP efforts represented one of the most comprehensive planning and response efforts in response to a community disaster, capturing the intensity and need of public participation and visioning for a path forward.
The community engagement process began with a meeting in February 2019. In total, seven listening sessions and community meetings were held to solicit feedback and input from residents regarding developing a community vision and setting Town goals for recovery. With feedback from these meetings and other documented engagement tools, the LTCRP was presented to the community and Town Council on June 25, 2019.
Throughout the process, it was apparent that while the Camp Fire had changed many of the Town’s priorities and needs, the perceived and actual need for a centralized wastewater solution had not changed. The Paradise Sewer Project is identified as a “Tier 1 Recovery Priority Project” in the LTCRP, which included those plans that were considered “catalyst projects that serve as important interventions for the long-term recovery from the physical damage of the disaster” (Town of Paradise 2019). The LTCRP states “A sewer system should be installed in commercial areas to incentivize economic growth and reduce environmental impacts. It could allow for clustered uses, such as restaurants and apartments, that are currently not feasible” (Town of Paradise 2019). 202
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 23
Starting in late 2019 and through 2020, the Town re-evaluated the most recent Town of Paradise Sewer Project, Alternatives Analysis and Feasibility Report: Determining a Preferred Option for Implementation (Bennett Engineering 2017) to explore a wastewater collection system in light of the additional impacts resulting from the 2018 Camp Fire. New considerations included a more expansive need for septic system replacements, incorporation of and consistency with the LTCRP findings and recommendations, including how repopulation within the sewer service area would proceed and how to address those ongoing sewer impacts that had continued to exacerbate since the 2017 study.
The Town continued to study wastewater discharge and treatment alternatives, including local treatment and disposal, as well as a regional treatment alternative at the Chico WPCP. In 2020, the Town received an Evaluation of Wastewater Treatment Plant Options, Town of Paradise, Butte County memorandum from the RWQCB (2020). In the memorandum, the RWQCB recognized that the Town was considering both a local treatment and disposal option as well as the option to connect to the Chico WPCP; documentation of a qualitative evaluation and comparison of the two options by the RWQCB was included in the memorandum (RWQCB 2020). A summary of the findings states “… it is the opinion of the Board’s technical staff that the regionalization option presents an objectively more sustainable long-term solution to the Town’s wastewater infrastructure needs. Due to the apparent overwhelming advantages of the regionalization option, it is the Board’s strong recommendation for the Town to conserve limited financial resources and focus its feasibility analysis on the regionalization option” (RWQCB 2020).
Following a detailed analysis of alternatives, and in coordination with the City and RWQCB, the environmental impacts, costs, and operations of the alternatives were considered. In partnership with the RWQCB and City, the regional approach to providing sewer service to the Town, by connecting to the existing Chico WPCP, was pursued over alternative options to build a new stand-alone treatment facility for the Town. Section 5.2 describes the reasoning for rejecting as infeasible the local alternatives as part of this environmental review process.
During these studies, it was also determined that the estimated average wastewater conveyance and treatment need for the sewer service area would be 464,000 gallons per day (0.464 mgd). This would accommodate current repopulation and possible future growth, consistent with the current Town of Paradise General Plan and Town of Paradise 2022–2030 Housing Element Update (Town of Paradise and Quad Consultants 2008; Town of Paradise 2022a). The Town is preparing this PEIR to determine feasibility of a regional wastewater treatment solution to fulfill this 0.464 mgd wastewater treatment need.
2.3 Project Need and Objectives
2.3.1 Project Need
Based on the number of developed and developable parcels, Paradise is the largest town in California that relies solely on septic systems for the treatment and disposal of its wastewater (BCAG 2019a).
Relying on private septic systems due to the lack of a municipal sewer collection system has a twofold implication: (1) the effect on the human and natural environment, and (2) the effect on the area’s economy and recovery from the 2018 Camp Fire. The Camp Fire, which occurred in the Town and 203
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 24
some surrounding areas in the County, was one of the most destructive wildfires in California history.
The Camp Fire resulted in the loss of 85 lives, nearly 19,000 structures, the more than 150,000 acres over a period of 2 weeks as well as $9 billion in insurance claims (Town of Paradise 2022a).
The lack of reliable sewer infrastructure, due to the probability of failure and limitations on treatment and discharge within the current septic network, poses an environmental threat to groundwater and surface water quality, and has been shown to have a recurring impact within the Town’s sewer service area. The Proposed Project’s Core Collection System area is consistent with the Town’s sewer service area, as defined in the Town of Paradise General Plan (Town of Paradise and Quad Consultants 2008).
When a septic system fails, it would either contaminate the groundwater underneath it or surface water nearby, creating environmental concerns for nearby streams and lakes as well as polluting the drinking water supply. In extreme cases, a failing septic system may leak improperly treated sewage into the environment, leading to the spread of diseases such as hepatitis and dysentery. In other cases, improperly treated septic system effluent may percolate into underlying groundwater, feeding an excessive amount of nitrates into the water supply. Research on septic system failure is limited, but some research indicates that septic systems should be studied more carefully. “In 2013, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) looked at nearly four decades of data on disease outbreaks linked to drinking untreated groundwater. The data was drawn from 248 outbreaks that were reported to the CDC between 1971 and 2008. Of the 172 cases in which a source of contamination was determined, 67 percent were linked to a septic tank or an improperly designed well” (Circle of Blue 2015).
Prior to the 2018 Camp Fire, the Town struggled to support a thriving economy, in part due to the lack of sewer availability. Currently, for any property in the Town, the degree and intensity of use of a parcel is limited to the capacity to safely dispose of wastewater on site. Commercial parcels in Town are generally smaller in size and concentrated in a core commercial area that provides limited space for septic tanks and leach fields. These restrictions are compounded by siting restrictions such as high groundwater and poor drainage due to the local soil composition. As a result, existing Town businesses were severely constrained due to their septic system discharge exceeding the available capacity of the land itself, while new businesses were often forced to open elsewhere due to the limitations placed on them to operate with an on-site septic system. Higher water usage businesses like restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops, and nail and hair salons are particularly affected, resulting in very limited local businesses in these categories.
Following the impact of what is reported to be the “globe’s costliest natural disaster in 2018” (Associated Press 2019), conditions since the 2018 Camp Fire are amplified with even fewer businesses able to open or reopen due to septic failures or required upgrades that are cost prohibitive.
As Paradise residents continue to seek goods and services elsewhere, they take their tax dollars with them. This has resulted in approximately 73 percent retail leakage in food and beverage establishments according to the Camp Fire Regional Economic Impact Analysis Final Report (Economic & Planning Systems and Industrial Economics 2021). Even lower water-usage business categories such as home furnishings and appliance, clothing, and general merchandise stores suffered 61 percent, 98 percent, and 71 percent retail leakage, respectively.
204
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 25
2.3.2 Project Objectives and Goals
The intent of the Proposed Project is to provide a municipal wastewater management solution that would reduce public health and environmental concerns caused by failed or failing septic systems, and support economic recovery and sustainability following the 2018 Camp Fire.
Three primary objectives and associated goals piloted the development of the Proposed Project:
Provide long-term, efficient, reliable treatment of wastewater in a cost-effective, environmentally beneficial manner to current and returning Town residents, in a manner acceptable to the RWQCB and other permitting agencies:
o Accommodate regrowth while reducing further environmental degradation of groundwater and surface water from failing septic systems
o Reduce the public health risk associated with failing septic systems Generate economic recovery by eliminating septic-related capacity limitations, as well as the general burden of on-site wastewater management for businesses:
o Promote the return or arrival of essential community services and businesses by removing restrictions caused by on-site septic systems
Provide for the ability to construct and maintain affordable housing, specifically multi-family housing:
o Support centralizing affordable housing to Paradise’s urban core, along major evacuation routes
The first primary objective of the Proposed Project is to provide a cost-effective, long-term sewage management solution that supports local and regional water quality preservation as well as reduces risk to public health. From a health and safety standpoint, failed or failing septic systems create a public health risk due to the potential for direct or indirect public contact with wastewater. The California State Water Resources Control Board’s (SWRCB) 2010 Update to Strategic Plan 2008-2012 (SWRCB 2010), demonstrates its focus on improving water quality in the state with two goals: one targets protection of groundwater in high-use basins; and the second focuses on comprehensively addressing the relationship between water supply, water quality, and climate change (SWRCB 2010, Goals 2 and 4).
The document also describes SWRCB’s Strategic Priority Actions, and in a discussion on wastewater infrastructure and sustainability, states:
The need for updated and new infrastructure is particularly critical for small communities with very limited resources. The State Water Board will emphasize a renewed focus on small community wastewater projects and make it a priority to help ensure that small and/or disadvantaged communities have the resources needed to protect water quality and public health related to wastewater (SWRCB 2010).
The Town’s current practice of collecting wastewater and processing it through individual septic tanks and soil absorption disposal systems (referred to as leach fields) in a geologically constrained foothill 205
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 26
community has a direct impact on both water quality and water supply when systems fail. As a result, the Town has been coordinating with the City and the RWQCB to respond to the existing threat to the health and safety of the public, specifically Town residents. The Proposed Project and alternatives were developed, in part, as a result of this coordination. Removing the need for septic systems in areas where septic systems have failed, or are projected to fail, would directly respond to the goals and priorities identified in SWRCB’s Strategic Plan. According to the Town of Paradise Sewer Project Alternatives Analysis and Feasibility Report, even before the Camp Fire occurred, “on Skyway alone, 122 septic systems had failed in the last years or are predicted to fail in the next 10 years (Bennett Engineering 2017).
The second objective of the Proposed Project is to enable the recovery and sustainability of the Town’s economy, thus providing essential community services. The lack of a reliable wastewater solution was a limiting factor to projected Town growth prior to the 2018 Camp Fire and remains a major barrier to existing and new commercial business in the Town. Fewer businesses in the Town also means fewer in-Town jobs, particularly in the retail and service industries. These types of jobs and the businesses that provide them are critical in a “bedroom community”-like Paradise to support the returning population and keep the local economy sustainable.
Multi-family housing recovery and development within the Town is the third objective of the Proposed Project. The reliance on private septic systems has always hindered the development of multi-family housing in the Town, as larger housing developments require wastewater infrastructure that exceeds the capacity of a traditional onsite septic system. Those housing developments that were able to navigate this barrier did so at great expense, with the cost of necessary wastewater treatment serving as a barrier to most multifamily projects. This has reduced the number of affordable housing units in Town and has contributed to an ongoing housing shortage in the Town and County. Per the Camp Fire Regional Economic Impact Analysis Final Report (Economic & Planning Systems and Industrial Economics 2021), “The Town lost almost 90 percent of its supply of single family detached homes, over 70 percent of its supply of single-family attached and other multifamily residential units, and all 2,100 mobile home units.” Some reconstruction did occur in 2019, including 648 temporary residential units (Fehr and Peers 2021). Before the 2018 Camp Fire, Paradise provided housing for a workforce whose work was distributed throughout the County. BCAG states that in 2018, the County had a job to housing unit ratio of 0.83, while in 2020 the ratio jumped to 0.96 as a result of the housing loss associated with the Camp Fire (BCAG 2019b). After the 2018 Camp Fire, property owners who would otherwise build or re-build multi-family developments have been unable to do so partially due to the constraints of on-site septic system capacity. This loss of affordable housing development has caused a workforce shortage in surrounding communities due to the lack of available housing. A regional economic impact analysis of the 2018 Camp Fire found that “the ability of the Region to replace workers and re-balance income distribution hinges on its ability to plan for and successfully construct an adequate supply of new, affordable housing, particularly in Butte County” (Economic & Planning Systems and Industrial Economics 2021).
Additionally, as a recipient of a Home Investment Partnerships Program grant from the California Department of Housing and Community Development, the Town is required to offer a certain number of low-income housing units. The Town is currently unable to meet that requirement because of the existing septic system constraints, which are unable to support housing development densification. 206
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 27
Development of low-income, multi-family housing made possible by a sewer system could help the Town comply with these regulations, while also addressing the County’s workforce shortage and providing affordable housing to the community.
2.4 Existing Wastewater Treatment Facilities
2.4.1 Town of Paradise
Currently, the Town has nearly 11,500 parcels (California State University Chico 2020). All of those parcels rely on private wastewater treatment facilities, which primarily consist of individual, privately owned septic tanks and leach fields. Larger private septic tank systems serving commercial, institutional, and multi-family properties are also used. Each property owner contracts with a private septage hauling company to periodically pump out their septic tanks and haul the septage away. A representative individual conventional septic system, typical of those which serve a majority of the Town, is shown in Figure 2-3.
Figure 2-3. Individual Conventional Septic System
Residential septic tanks typically hold 1,000 to 1,500 gallons of septage and are pumped out every 5 to 10 years. Industrial or high flow commercial facilities are larger, include holding tanks, and are pumped several times per year. In a properly sized, installed, and well-maintained septic tank with ideal soil and groundwater conditions, solids, including microorganisms and nutrients, remain in the septic tank, and liquid (effluent) discharges to the soil through the leach field (drain field). Effluent from the septic tank enters the leach field within the soil layer through discharge pipes and gravel, where physical, chemical, and biological processes within the soil provide further treatment and disposal of the wastewater.
However, septic tank effluent still contains large quantities of pathogenic microorganisms and nutrients when discharged into the soil, which are problematic in poor soil conditions, high groundwater, or compromised systems. Failed leach field filtration systems represent a portion of the known septic 207
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 28
system failures and associated soil degradation; present the largest concern for individual septic systems; and can often contribute to additional failures, including effluent discharge at the ground surface.
Septage from the Town currently is hauled by truck to one of the following locations:
A receiving station at the Neal Road Recycling and Waste Facility, a landfill just south of the Town (approximately 2 miles southeast of the Proposed Project); from there, a single company (Thrifty Rooter) hauls the septage to Thrifty Rooter’s septage treatment facility near Lincoln, California (approximately 71 miles south of the Proposed Project); and NorCal Environmental Solutions, a facility in Orland, California, 35 miles west of the Town.
2.4.2 Chico Water Pollution Control Plant
The Chico WPCP is located approximately 5 miles southwest of the City on 120 acres of land. The City owns and operates the property and the Chico WPCP. The Chico WPCP sewer service area is composed of the incorporated area of Chico and some parcels within unincorporated Butte County, adjacent to the City limits. The Proposed Project does not include changes to the current Chico WPCP sewer service area or the availability of sewer service to residents of the City, other than the addition of the Town’s sewer service discussed below.
The Chico WPCP is a 12 mgd capacity, secondary treatment, activated sludge, wastewater plant with future expandability of up to 15 mgd (City of Chico 2021a). The Chico WPCP treats incoming wastewater through screening (large solids removal), grit removal, primary clarification, activated sludge treatment with secondary clarification, and chlorination/dechlorination. The sludge (biosolids) portion of the wastewater is treated by anaerobic digestion, followed by mechanical dewatering. The resulting biosolids are then hauled directly from the Chico WPCP for land application in unincorporated Sacramento County, California. The treated wastewater from the Chico WPCP is discharged to the Sacramento River through a submerged outfall diffuser and is regulated in accordance with National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit No. CA0079081 (Order No. R5-2016-0023).
The annual average flow coming into the Chico WPCP is 6.3 mgd (Chico WPCP monitoring data, RWQCB 2021). The Proposed Project would add an additional 0.109 mgd of wastewater from the Town to the Chico WPCP influent at the time of initial connection (estimated for 2026) and 0.464 mgd at build-out (estimated for 2057) and would not increase nor substantially decrease the availability of sewer service within the City or County (see more details in Section 2.5.1 Core Collection System and assessment of effects in Section 3.18.4, Impact Analysis [Utilities and Service Systems]). Therefore, the Town’s connection falls within the requirements of this NPDES permit. Any requirements to modify the Chico WPCP NPDES permit would occur with future expansion of the facility to the 15 mgd capacity; it is not anticipated that modifications to the permit would be required with implementation of the Proposed Project since it does not require a change in the current facility’s capacity or primary infrastructure.
A Cooperative Funding Agreement between the Town and City was executed for the purpose of assessing impacts of a potential Town connection to the Chico WPCP. The Regionalization Planning Report for the Paradise Sewer Project (Carollo Engineers 2022) reviewed the Chico WPCP operating needs and plant capacity, including the proposed Town connection in the year 2026. Results of this 208
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 29
assessment have indicated that the potential 0.464 mgd Town discharge to the WPCP is within the existing plant’s capacity (12 mgd). The study further identified that due to estimated future wastewater flow increases to the Chico WPCP based on the City’s current and future population, including the estimated Town sewer discharge in 2026, the City would need to implement a project at the WPCP, consisting of the addition of a fourth secondary clarifier. This clarifier would be installed within the footprint of the existing plant, adjacent to three existing secondary clarifiers. The fourth clarifier is required whether Paradise connects to the Chico WPCP or not. Considering the Town’s maximum of
0.464 mgd flow anticipated to connect to the City’s WPCP in 2026, the fourth clarifier would be needed in 2028. Without the Town’s additional flow, the fourth clarifier is needed in 2029. The City would evaluate this clarifier project in a separate CEQA process; therefore, it is not a part of the Proposed Project addressed in this PEIR.
2.5 Proposed Project Components
As stated at the beginning of this chapter, the Proposed Project would consist of three primary components: Core Collection System, Export Pipeline System, and Extended Collection System. The first two components are analyzed in this PEIR at a project level because sufficient information is available about the characteristics, timing, and locations of these proposed components. Because the Extended Collection System is conceptual in definition and the characteristics, timing, and/or locations of the necessary buried gravity and pressure lines, maintenance holes, and pump stations are not available at the time of PEIR preparation, the Extended Collection System build-out is analyzed at a programmatic level in this PEIR. Once the Extended Collection System construction is defined, the Town would consider whether subsequent CEQA documentation is required.
Although not a physical change to the environment and, therefore, not required to be included in this PEIR (CEQA Guidelines 15064(d)), it is recognized that the Proposed Project would require the City and Town to enter into an inter-municipal agreement to capture the contractual terms for the provision of wastewater treatment services from the Chico WPCP to the Town (Government Code Section 56133) and a formal agreement or other mechanism for the construction and maintenance of facilities within the Butte County-maintained rights-of-way.
Also, as described in the introduction of Chapter 2 Project Description, the Butte LAFCo must approve the extension of services beyond the boundaries of Chico to allow the City to provide wastewater treatment services to the Town (Government Code Section 56133); therefore, this is considered in this PEIR.
Subsections 2.5.1 and 2.5.2 describe the two Proposed Project components that would be assessed at a project level of review, including associated construction methods; equipment, crews, and materials; and easement requirements for the Core Collection System and Export Pipeline System.
Section 2.5.3 provides a description of the Extended Collection System, which is assessed at a programmatic level of review, as stated above.
209
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 30
2.5.1 Core Collection System
2.5.1.1 Location and Description
The infrastructure proposed to serve Paradise’s sewer service area within the Town is called the Core Collection System. This component aligns geographically with what is defined as the Sewer Service Area (SSA) in the Town of Paradise 2022-2030 Housing Element Update (Town of Paradise 2022a).
The Core Collection System would support the centralized businesses and housing in Town, including approximately 1,500 parcels along the Skyway, Clark Road, and Pearson Road corridors (Figure ES-2; approximately 13-percent of the 11,500 total parcels within Town limits). Construction of the Core Collection System would disturb approximately 10.67 acres.
The parcels identified for the Core Collection System represent those with the highest probability for groundwater degradation associated with more concentrated uses, poor soils, high groundwater, and limited parcel sizes. The Proposed Project would add an additional 0.109 mgd of wastewater from the Town to the Chico WPCP influent at the time of initial connection (estimated for 2026; Section 2.6, Proposed Schedule). The estimated maximum wastewater conveyance and treatment need for the sewer service area is 464,000 gallons per day (0.464 mgd). This sewer estimate accounts for current and future estimated growth consistent with the current Town of Paradise General Plan and Town of Paradise 2022-2030 Housing Element Update, and would be realized over a projected 30-year planning horizon (Town of Paradise and Quad Consultants 2008; Town of Paradise 2022a). The Core Collection System and Extended Collection System combined is limited to the 0.464 mgd maximum and would be included in the inter-municipality agreement between the Town and City.
The Core Collection System would be sized to accommodate the Town population within the 30-year planning horizon (Town of Paradise 2022a), with the capacity to serve parcels within the Town’s sewer service area and would consist of:
Force (pressurized) mains, which are pressurized sewer pipes that convey water under pressure from the discharge side of the pump and are often used where gravity is not enough to move wastewater or stormwater runoff through a sewer line; Small pump stations used to move wastewater to higher elevations to allow subsequent transport by gravity flow; and
A system of gravity sewers, which would use energy resulting from a difference in elevation to remove wastewater.
Most of the Core Collection System components would be constructed within the existing Town ROW.
Temporary private easements could be required to install components of the Core Collection System, such as pipelines or pump stations. Remediation and disposition of existing on-site septic tanks and leach fields would be the responsibility of the individual parcel owner, as described further below.
Because of the varied topography within the sewer service area, pump stations and pressurized force mains would be required to pump flows out of valleys and other low-lying areas to adjacent gravity sewers. Figure 2-5 presents examples of pump stations (one large and one small) that could be placed, as required, along the Town or County roadway ROW. Figure 2-6 shows the sewer main and sewer laterals proposed alignment within the Core Collection System area. 210
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 31
Figure 2-4. Town of Paradise Proposed Core and Extended Collection System Boundaries 211
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 32
Figure 2-5. Examples of Below-grade Pump Stations (left: large, approximately 8 feet in diameter; right: small, approximately 3 feet in diameter)
The Core Collection System would consist of approximately 157,000 feet of 6- to 8-inch-diameter gravity sewers, 29,000 feet of 2- to 4-inch-diameter force mains, and up to 28 pump stations. The pipelines would be buried approximately 3 to 15 feet below the ground surface, depending on local topography and sewer system design features and constraints. At individual parcels (residential dwellings and businesses), public sewer laterals (typically 4 inches in diameter) would extend from the Core Collection System’s gravity sewer main to the property line, transitioning to a private sewer lateral within the parcel, leading to the structure (Figure 2-7). As part of the Proposed Project, the portion of the sewer lateral extending from the core collection system to the cleanout, and the cleanout itself, will be installed; the Town will be responsible for maintaining those portions of the sewer lateral. The private owner will be responsible for installing and maintaining the remainder of the sewer lateral up to the building, using the cleanout as the point of connection. The cleanout provides a direct access point to the sewer lateral, and is installed for the purpose of cleaning or clearing a clog located along the sewer lateral. A cleanout looks like a capped pipe sticking a few inches above the ground. The cleanout allows the Town and private owner to maintain their respective portions of the sewer lateral.
If there is an opportunity to construct multiple segments of the Core Collection System at the same time, construction methods can be accelerated to construct the segments simultaneously. Construction of the Core Collection System pump stations and sewer force mains would occur at the same time as the gravity sewers. Construction of the gravity sewer mains in the Core Collection System would likely be completed in segments, block by block, or multiple blocks at a time, starting from the downstream end of the system (at the southwestern edge of the Town) and working upstream, based on standard construction methods and installation of gravity sewers.
The Core Collection System would transition to the Export Pipeline System at the southwestern edge of Town, on the Skyway (Figure ES-1). The connection of a parcel’s sewer to the Proposed Project would eliminate the need for an individual parcel to use an on-site septic system and leach field. The transition 212
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 33
to the Core Collection System for existing structures with functioning septic system and no plans for substantial building expansion would be at a property owner’s discretion, although the Town is pursuing 213
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 34
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
Figure 2-6. Core Collection System
214
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 35
Figure 2-7. Connection to Core Collection System
Table 2-1. Core Collection System Pipeline Measurements Collection System Feature Approximate Pipe Length
(feet)
Pipe Diameter
(inches)
Gravity Sewers 157,000 6–8
Force Mains 29,000 2–4
Sewer Laterals (approximately 1,500) 30–50 each (varies) 4–6 (varies) grants to incentivize sewer connection within the Core Collection System area. Those properties in the Core Collection System area that would be required to connect to the sewer system would include: (1) new construction that generates wastewater, (2) an existing structure with a failed onsite wastewater system, as determined by the Onsite Sanitary Official, or (3) structure expansions greater than 750 square feet for residential or 1,000 square feet for commercial; this criteria is consistent with exemption thresholds included in Chapter 12.20 of the Town’s Municipal Code for Improvements – Right of Way Dedication (Town of Paradise 2022b). A sewer ordinance would be adopted by the Town and is anticipated to include the same parameters. Remediation and disposition of existing on-site septic tanks and leach fields would be the responsibility of the individual parcel owner, and these actions are not considered in this PEIR as part of the Proposed Project; a parcel’s septic system would need to be remediated (abandoned or removed) pursuant to existing regulations as a condition of connecting to the Proposed Project. A process for abandonment of a private septic system has been established under the County’s existing standards and the Town’s on-site septic management processes.
Information is available to the public on the Town’s website (https://www.townofparadise.com/septic/ page/abandonment-septic-system). Additionally, permitted clustered septic wastewater treatment would 215
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 36
remain allowable within the Town boundaries under the Proposed Project. The clustered septic system combines several discharges, treats the waste in a single treatment plant, and discharges to subsurface land disposal, thereby eliminating adverse impacts associated with the individual septic leach line systems (Town of Paradise 2022a). Although this option can be feasible for larger projects or consortiums of property owners, it is not viable for small individual projects due to relatively high associated costs (Town of Paradise 2022a).
2.5.1.2 Construction Methods
Construction within the Town’s ROW would use open-cut trenching methods to install the pipes and structures that comprise the Core Collection System. Open cut trenching is a method of installation that requires opening up the surface of the ground to install, repair or replace a new structure, such as a pipe, conduit, or cable. The excavation is then backfilled, and the surface restored. Section 2.5.2.2 Construction Methods, Figure 2-11, shows examples of typical open-cut pipe installation. Where located within public streets, portions of the Town’s ROWs would serve as a temporary construction zone, with restricted access to the ROW to allow trenching equipment to dig trenches. Work crews would install the pipe and structures, then backfill the excavation, restore the ground surface to its previous or better conditions, and re-establish full access to the area. The required maintenance holes and pump stations would involve similar construction methods of open cuts, installation, backfill, and restoration.
Water encountered in trenches during Core Collection System construction would be managed according to local and state standards, which may include water collection and storage prior to disposal or reuse (via local temporary sump pumps and Baker Tanks to improve water quality or quantity, as needed). Discharge or reuse may include pre-settlement of solids, and reuse may include use in water trucks for dust control during construction.
2.5.1.3 Equipment, Crews, and Materials
The following construction quantities were estimated for the Core Collection System (HDR 2022).
Construction Crews and Equipment
Table 2-2 summarizes the construction crew size and equipment types required for Core Collection System construction.
Table 2-2. Summary of Construction Crews and Equipment for Core Collection System Number
Crews and
Per Crew Equipment
of Workers
Asphalt Removal Crew
1 Sawcutting machine
1 Water truck/trailer
1 Backhoe/loader 95hp, Cat 420
1 Excavator 1.5 cy, 165hp Cat 320
2 Truck tandem 16 cy
1 Skidsteer 80hp
7 Total Workers
216
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 37
Number
Crews and
Per Crew Equipment
of Workers
Small-diameter Pipe Installation Crew
2 Excavator 1.5 cy, 165hp Cat 320
1 Loader 170hp, Cat 930
2 Concrete truck
1 Roller compactor, walk behind, 20hp
3 Vibratory plate/jumping jack compactor
2 Truck tandem 16 cy
11 Total Workers
Asphalt Replacement Crew
1 Backhoe/loader 95hp, Cat 420
1 Loader 170hp, Cat 930
1 Skidsteer 80hp
1 Water truck/trailer
1 Asphalt paver 75hp
2 Roller compactor, riding, 25T, 170hp
2 Vibratory plate compactor
2 Truck tandem 16 cy
2 Striping truck
13 Total Workers
Pump Station Installation Crew
2 Excavator 2.5 cy, 310hp Cat 336
1 Loader 170hp, Cat 930
1 Roller compactor, walk behind, 20hp
4 Vibratory plate/jumping jack compactor
1 Truck tandem 16 cy
1 Mobile soil-cement mixer, Cement Tech M30, 425hp
1 Excavator 2.5 cy, 310hp Cat 336
1 Loader 170hp, Cat 930, soil processor bucket
12 Total Workers
Notes: cy = cubic yard; hp = horsepower
Based on an anticipated 22-month construction period, installation of the Core Collection System would require multiple crews to be working at the same time (HDR 2022). The following is the estimated number of crews working at any given time:
Asphalt Removal: 1 crew
Small-diameter Pipe Installation: 7 crews
Asphalt Replacement: 1 crew
Pump Station Installation: 2 crews
Excavated and Fill Materials
The following excavated and fill materials are anticipated for Core Collection System construction (HDR 2022):
217
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 38
Soil exported: 169,400 cubic yards
Fill material imported: 62,600 cubic yards
Construction Materials
The following materials would be used in the Core Collection System construction (HDR 2022):
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe and miscellaneous fittings Pre-built pump stations and associated mechanical/electrical components Temporary and permanent paving (asphalt)
Backfill material
Estimated Truck Trips
Based on an anticipated 22-month construction period for the Core Collection System, an average of 750 round-trip truck trips distributed across an average of 11 crews working at a given time would be generated each working day during construction (HDR 2022). This equates to approximately eight trucks per crew per hour, which would be dispersed across multiple locations within the Core Collection System construction area.
2.5.1.4 Easement Requirements
The majority of the Core Collection System would be installed within the Town’s ROWs (i.e., Town streets, existing public ROW). However, small segments of the Core Collection System may need to cross private parcels to install components of the Core Collection System, such as pipelines or pump stations. In those cases, temporary or permanent easements would be acquired from the property owners. As noted above, remediation and disposition of existing on-site septic tanks and leach fields would be required to connect to the sewer system and would be the responsibility of the individual parcel owner; therefore, no easement requirements would be associated with septic remediation.
2.5.2 Export Pipeline System
2.5.2.1 Location and Description
The proposed Export Pipeline System would start at the southern end of the Core Collection System as a gravity sewer line and would continue southwest to the City for connection to the Chico WPCP. In total, construction of the Export Pipeline System would disturb approximately 5.95 acres. The system would be primarily constructed within the Butte County public ROW, except for approximately 5,700 feet (1.1 miles) of the 18-mile proposed pipeline construction in southern Chico and at the connection with the Chico WPCP. Where the proposed pipeline alignment leaves the Butte County public ROW at Skyway, east of SR 99, it would remain within an inactive UPRR corridor before bisecting two private parcels located within the City limits. This segment including the UPRR corridor, and the two private parcels is the only segment along the proposed Export Pipeline System that is not in the public ROW. The segment for connection to the Chico WPCP would fall within the WPCP site, which is City property. Further, the crossing of the two private parcels and the final connection at the Chico WPCP are the only segments of the Proposed Project that would fall within City boundaries. Easements for the UPRR and private crossings are discussed in Section 2.5.2.4 Easement or Access Permission Requirements. See Figure ES-3 for the pipeline route location, with the section of proposed crossing of private parcels identified. 218
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 39
The proposed Export Pipeline System would include the following sub-components:
Ridge Gravity Section: At the terminus of the Core Collection System, the Export Pipeline System begins with the Ridge Gravity Section. In this section, the wastewater flows by gravity.
No pump stations would be required. To handle both the initial low wastewater flows and future build out flows, two separate gravity sewer pipes are needed: one 8 inches in diameter to handle low flows, and one 10 inches in diameter that would accommodate the build out flows.
The 10 inch-diameter pipe would be placed directly above the 8-inch-diameter pipe, with an accompanying fiber-optic conduit for pipeline operations. All three items would be installed at the same time and are needed based on the hydraulic parameters of sewer gravity flow. These parameters are dependent on flow velocity, which is in part dictated by the amount of flow in the system and the size of the pipe. Both sewer pipes and conduit would be approximately 7.5 miles in length, installed approximately 10 feet deep, and remain within the County ROW. Transition Chamber: The Transition Chamber would provide the necessary transition of the wastewater flow from the steep Ridge Gravity Section to the Gravity Force Main Section that runs along the flatter portions of the valley floor, connecting the Gravity Force Main Section to the Chico WPCP. The Transition Chamber would be installed along Skyway, just before the pipeline reaches the City limits. The chamber would be a below-ground (likely cylindrical) structure, approximately 10 to 12 feet in diameter and 10 to 15 feet deep, with a small box-like structure above ground to house electronics associated with measurement devices within the chamber. Examples of what the above-ground structure and the below-ground structure could look like are included in Figure 2-9 and Figure 2-10, respectively. Gravity Force Main Section: Flow leaving the Transition Chamber would be under pressure based on the gravity flow from the steep Ridge Gravity Section, and the pipe would flow full, creating a beneficial force main based on the hydraulic behavior of the sewer (eliminating the need for a pump station, which is not a part of this system), so the effluent can reach the Chico WPCP. No pump stations would be required. The Gravity Force Main Section would consist of
10.5 miles of a 12 inch-diameter pipe, with an accompanying fiber-optic conduit above, at a minimum depth of 3 feet (depth varies). The pipeline would be installed along existing roads within the County ROW, or within permanent sewer easements obtained from private property owners, if necessary. There is one segment of this section that crosses perpendicularly under SR 99 (in a tunneled crossing), which is a state highway. For that section, approval from the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) would be obtained. Maintenance Holes: Along the Ridge Gravity and Gravity Force Main Sections, approximately 80 maintenance holes, which are required for the maintenance of the pipelines, would be spaced approximately 500 feet apart.
Flow Control and Metering Structure: A Flow Control and Metering Structure, located at or near the Chico WPCP, would consist of two below-ground circular chambers (or similar) next to each other, each approximately 8 feet in diameter and 10 to 15 feet deep. Similar in size to the aboveground structure supporting the Transition Chamber described previously and shown in Figure 2-9, a small, above-ground, box-like structure would house electronics associated with the flow control and measurement devices installed below ground. An example of what the 219
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
Figure 2-8. Export Pipeline System hdrinc.com
220 Final Program Environmental Impact Report 40
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 41
Figure 2-9. Example Transition Chamber with Vehicular Bollard Protection 221
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 42
Figure 2-10. Transition Chamber and Flow Control and Metering Chamber Examples 222
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 43
below-ground structure could like is included in Figure 2-10. The first below-ground chamber would be dry (the wastewater would remain within the pipe that is exposed within the chamber) and would contain a magnetic flow meter and a pressure gauge on the pipeline, with the chamber being the access point to this flow meter. The second chamber would be wet, with the wastewater discharging into the chamber via a modulating plug valve. A modulating plug valve would keep the Transition Chamber and Gravity Force Main Sections full, to maintain the hydraulic function of the Gravity Force Main Section. In this chamber, the wastewater would travel through the modulating valve, discharge into the open chamber, and then flow by gravity from the second chamber to the existing Influent Sewer Junction Box A at the Chico WPCP.
This would be the terminus of the Export Pipeline System. Fiber-optic Conduit: As discussed above, the Proposed Project includes two below-ground structures along the Export Pipeline System: a Transition Chamber and a Flow Control and Metering Structure. These two structures include instruments that would monitor various parameters of the wastewater, such as water levels, valve positions, and wastewater flow rate.
To reliably communicate the signals from those electrical instruments to the Town and the Chico WPCP, the Proposed Project would include installation of a 2-inch-diameter, fiber-optic conduit in the same trench as the Export Pipeline System. The conduit would be made of metal, PVC, or fiberglass braiding, and would be placed above the pipelines. This component is essential to the extension of the wastewater services from the City to the Town, as it is the mechanism to track flow volume, characteristics, and timing of discharges, and would be used in ongoing evaluation and operation decisions between the Town and City. Chico WPCP Connection: The southern end of the Export Pipeline System would connect to the existing Chico WPCP. This connection would involve drilling a hole in an existing belowground concrete box at the facility and connecting the new pipeline. Consistent with existing operations, the wastewater would be treated at the Chico WPCP and discharged to the Sacramento River through a submerged outfall diffuser. It is anticipated that the Town’s connection would fall within the requirements of the current NPDES permit, as discussed in Section 2.4.2.
Construction of the Export Pipeline System would be divided into segments, with multiple segments under construction at any single point in time. A summary of measurements and installation depths for the proposed Export Pipeline System components is provided in Table 2-3.
Table 2-3. Export Pipeline System Measurements
Export Pipeline System Component Approximate Diameter L Approximate
r
Approximate Installation
ength/Numbe Depth (feet)
Ridge Gravity Section 8 and 10 inches 7.5 miles 10
Transition Chamber 10–12 feet 1 10–15
Gravity Force Main Section 12 inches 10.5 miles 3–10
Flow Control and Metering Structure 8 feet 2 10–15
Fiber-Optic Conduit 2 inches 18.0 miles 2–14
223
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 44
2.5.2.2 Construction Methods
Open-Cut
The Export Pipeline System would generally be constructed using open-cut methods (also known as open-trench method; Figure 2-11). The trench would be approximately 5 feet wide and up to 10 feet deep. The construction sequence would consist of (1) backhoe excavation; (2) shoring systems installation for trench excavation protection to achieve the excavation depth; (3) pipe installation; and (4) trench backfill placement, with subsequent shoring system removal and ground surface restoration.
Excess soil produced by the excavation would be disposed of consistent with all regulatory requirements. Along the Skyway segment and segments along other county roads, construction activities would generally be limited to the County ROW within and adjacent to those roads. For this analysis, it is expected that approximately 200 to 500 feet of pipeline may be installed per day of construction, with installation rates expected to be at least twice that in the valley areas, where the terrain is flat. Up to 11 staging areas are identified for potential use by the contractor to store pipe, backfill materials, and construction equipment. Staging areas are discussed further in Section 2.7.1.
Figure 2-11. Typical Open-cut Pipe Installation (left: pipe layout; right: open cut and shoring) Trenchless Crossings
A trenchless construction method is proposed at five locations along the proposed Export Pipeline System route, as shown in Figure 2-12. The trenchless crossings would be constructed using either horizontal directional drilling (HDD) or microtunneling methods, depending on the feature being crossed. Both methods would involve excavated pits at either end of the crossing to allow pipe installation beneath the feature (e.g., creek, highway, railroad), and avoiding the disruption of excavation at the surface of the specific feature location. Table 2-4 provides the potential crossing type at specific locations. The following subsections describe the specifics for these methods. 224
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 45
Table 2-4. Trenchless Crossing Location Details
Anticipated
Location Trenchless Approximate Crossing Dimensions Figure Number Crossing Type
Butte Creek and Butte Creek
Canyon Ecological Reserve HDD 1,065’ L x 20’ D (below creek bed) Figure 2-14 Comanche Creek HDD 500’ L x 20’ D (below creek bed) Figure 2-15 Little Chico Creek HDD 500’ L x 20’ D (below creek bed) Figure 2-16 State Route 99 Microtunnel 1,100’ L x 30’ D (below roadway centerline) Figure 2-18 Union Pacific Railroad Microtunnel 500’ L x 30’ D (below rail line centerline) Figure 2-19 Notes: HDD = Horizontal Directional Drilling; ' = foot; D = depth; L = length Horizontal Directional Drilling Crossings
HDD crossings are proposed in three locations along the Gravity Force Main Section to avoid affecting creeks and the Butte Creek Canyon Ecological Reserve:
Butte Creek and Butte Creek Canyon Ecological Reserve (single crossing below both features) Comanche Creek
Little Chico Creek
After excavation of an open pit on either side of the creek, outside the sensitive areas (one launching and one receiving pit, each approximately 10 feet long by 5 feet wide by 5 feet deep), the HDD pipe installation method involves three phases (shown in Figure 2-13):
Pilot Hole Drilling: The HDD machine drills a small-diameter pilot hole on a directional path (guided by a Global Positioning System [GPS] unit) from the launch pit to the receiving pit, leaving a drill string in place in the pilot hole. Drilling fluid is pumped into the pilot hole to maintain the integrity of the hole and flush out cuttings. Preream: Once the pilot hole has been completed, the borehole must be enlarged to a suitable diameter for the pipeline. Generally, the reamer is attached to the drill string at the receiving pit and pulled back into the pilot hole towards the launch pit. Again, drilling fluid is pumped into the enlarged borehole to maintain the integrity of the hole and flush out cuttings. Back Reaming and Pull Back: Once the directionally drilled hole is enlarged, the pipeline can be pulled through it. The pipeline is prefabricated at the receiving pit. A reamer is attached to the drill string, and then connected to the pipeline by a pulling head. The HDD machine then begins the pullback operation, rotating and pulling on the drill string as well as circulating drilling fluids. The pullback continues until the reamer exits the bore at the launch pit and the pipeline is in place.
The HDD crossings would be required to have a minimum depth of 20 feet and a maximum depth of 30 feet below the waterbody.
To comply with local and state construction standards, and to protect the waterbody at the proposed crossing location, the contractor would prepare an Inadvertent Release Plan, which the Town would approve prior to the start of the HDD effort. The plan would establish required construction practices to minimize risk of a release, establish monitoring requirements, and define contingency procedures that 225
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report 46
Figure 2-12. Overview of Export Pipeline Trenchless Crossings 226
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report 47
Figure 2-13. Typical HDD Installation
227
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
would be followed if the directional bores or pipeline installations caused movement of the soil (referred to as a frac-out) in the waterbody. This scenario is an unlikely, but possible, result of the HDD crossing of the creek.
The work area would include a stockpile area, isolated from any waterbodies, for the excavated material from the launching and receiving pit. The HDD crossing length is a function of the minimum depth requirement and the maximum bend or arch that can be placed on the pipeline, based on the pipeline material properties. Depending on the crossing length and the topography on each side of the crossing, the depth of the pipeline below the surface would vary. Both launching and receiving pits would be shallow (approximately 5 feet deep) and would have work areas around them to facilitate installation and protect the creek. Figure 2-14, Figure 2-15, and Figure 2-16 show the three proposed HDD locations. Section 3.4 provides an assessment of the potential for effects from construction on sensitive resources.
Microtunnel Crossings
Caltrans and Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) require pipelines to be installed inside an outer casing pipe when crossing below their facilities (highways and railroads, respectively). Both crossings are in highly disturbed areas, not zoned as residential and no residences are present. Nighttime work could occur during microtunneling, when work would need to be completed so as to avoid tunnel failure. If required, as discussed in Section 2.6 Proposed Schedule, the contractor will be required to obtain a special permit from the County Public Works Department that will be appended to the utility encroachment permit for the Proposed Project along with additional conditions. The contractor will be held to permit conditions by the Town and County.
Microtunneling (Figure 2-17) is a construction method that allows installation first of a casing pipe, and then insertion of the primary pipe. Therefore, microtunnel crossings are proposed at SR 99 and UPRR within the Gravity Force Main Section. Microtunneling involves excavation at an estimated depth of 30 feet, with a 30- by 12-foot launching pit, a 12- by 12-foot receiving pit, and work areas surrounding each pit. The work area would be within a previously disturbed area and include a stockpile area for the excavated material of the launching and receiving pit. The pits would be outfitted with temporary water inflow controls and watertight shoring to stabilize the pits during construction. The shoring is typically installed using a pile driver (vibratory or impaction) or an auger with a drill rig during excavation of the launching and receiving pits. Water encountered during pit excavation would be placed into a settling tank before being transported for discharge or reuse, according to local and state standards.
Once the launching and receiving pits are constructed, one 26- or 28-inch-diameter steel casing would be installed to provide the pathway for the underground crossing of the Gravity Force Main Section pipe at this segment. Once completed, the Gravity Force Main Section pipe would be installed inside the steel casing, as shown in Figure 2-17.
After the temporary construction features (slurry pipes, thrust blocks, shoring) are removed, the launching and receiving pits would be backfilled. As they are backfilled, the export pipeline would be installed vertically, to extend the buried pipeline at the crossing to a shallower depth on each side, on the receiving and discharge ends of the pipeline, completing the pipe segment. See Figure 2-18 and Figure 2-19 for the vertical pipeline alignment at the SR 99 and UPRR crossings, respectively. hdrinc.com
228 Final Program Environmental Impact Report 48
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report 49
Figure 2-14. Butte Creek and Butte Creek Canyon Ecological Reserve HDD Crossing 229
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report 50
Figure 2-15. Comanche Creek HDD Crossing
230
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report 51
Figure 2-16. Little Chico Creek HDD Crossing
231
Figure 2-17. Typical Microtunneling Installation
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
232 Final Program Environmental Impact Report 52
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report 53
Figure 2-18. State Route 99 Microtunnel Crossing
233
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report 54
Figure 2-19. UPRR Microtunnel Crossing
234
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 55
Transition Chamber and Flow Control and Metering Structure Construction Methods At the termination of the Export Pipeline System at the northeastern corner of the Chico WPCP, the Transition Chamber and the Flow Control and Metering Structure would be constructed by excavating an area approximately 35 feet square by 15 feet deep. Backhoes would remove the soil, and equipment would be used to install the structures (assumed to be precast cylinders). The Transition Chamber and the Flow Control and Metering Structure would also involve installation of mechanical and electrical equipment. The excavation would then be backfilled, and the ground surface restored. Excess soil produced by the excavation would be hauled to a local landfill or disposed according to local and state standards. Above-ground access structures and electrical equipment would be required; a photograph of what would be above-ground at a transition chamber is provided in Figure 2-9.
Chico WPCP Connection Construction Methods
The southern end of the Export Pipeline System would be connected to the existing Chico WPCP. All monitoring and electrical equipment required to facilitate the connection would be contained in the Flow Control and Metering Structure. This connection between the Flow Control and Metering Structure and the WPCP would involve drilling a hole in an existing below-ground concrete box at the WPCP facility and connecting the new pipeline.
2.5.2.3 Equipment, Crews, and Materials
The following construction quantities were estimated for the Export Pipeline System (HDR 2022).
Construction Crews and Equipment
Table 2-5 summarizes the construction crew size and equipment types required for Export Pipeline System construction.
Table 2-5. Summary of Construction Crews and Equipment for Export Pipeline System Crews and Number of Workers Per Equipment Crew
Asphalt Removal Crew
1 Sawcutting machine
1 Water truck/trailer
1 Backhoe/loader 95hp, Cat 420
1 Excavator 1.5 cy, 165hp Cat 320
2 Truck tandem 16 cy
1 Skidsteer 80hp
7 Total Workers
Small-diameter Pipe Installation Crew
2 Excavator 1.5 cy, 165hp, Cat 320
1 Loader 170hp, Cat 930
2 Concrete truck
1 Roller compactor, walk behind, 20hp
3 Vibratory plate/jumping jack compactor
2 Truck tandem 16 cy
11 Total Workers
235
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 56
Crews and Number of Workers Per Equipment
Crew
Asphalt Replacement Crew
1 Backhoe/loader 95hp, Cat 420
1 Loader 170hp, Cat 930
1 Skidsteer 80hp
1 Water truck/trailer
1 Asphalt paver 75hp
2 Roller compactor, riding, 25T, 170hp
2 Vibratory plate compactor
2 Truck tandem 16 cy
2 Striping truck
13 Total Workers
Structure Installation Crew
2 Excavator 2.5 cy, 310hp, Cat 336
1 Loader 170hp, Cat 930
1 Roller compactor, walk behind, 20hp
4 Vibratory plate/jumping jack compactor
1 Truck tandem 16 cy
1 Mobile soil-cement mixer, Cement Tech M30, 425hp
1 Excavator 2.5 cy, 310hp, Cat 336
1 Loader 170hp, Cat 930, soil processor bucket
12 Total Workers
HDD Crew
2 Backhoe/loader 95hp, Cat 420
1 Drilling Rig 600–700hp
1 Generator
1 Separator
2 Bentonite pumps
2 Truck tandem 16 cy
9 Total Workers
Bore and Jack Crew
2 Backhoe/loader 95hp, Cat 420
1 Boring machine 600-700hp
1 Generator
1 Separator
2 Truck tandem 16 cy
7 Total Workers
Notes: cy = cubic yard; hp = horsepower
Installation of the Export Pipeline System would require multiple crews to be working at the same time.
Based on an assumed 18-month construction period, the following is the estimated number of crews working at any given time (HDR 2022):
236
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 57
Asphalt Removal: 1 crew
Small-diameter Pipe Installation: 3 crews
Asphalt Replacement: 1 crew
Structure Installation: 1 crew
HDD: 1 crew
Bore and Jack: 1 crew
Excavated and Fill Materials
The following excavated and fill materials are anticipated on the Export Pipeline System construction (HDR 2022):
Soil exported: 60,800 cubic yards
Fill material imported: 22,900 cubic yards
Construction Materials
The following materials are anticipated to be used on the Export Pipeline System construction (HDR 2022):
PVC pipe and miscellaneous fittings
Concrete maintenance holes
Precast concrete cylinders for the Transition Chamber, the Flow Control and Metering Structure, and associated mechanical and electrical equipment for installation at each of the two structures
Metal carrier pipe at each of the five trenchless crossings Temporary and permanent paving (asphalt)
Backfill material
Estimated Truck Trips
Based on an anticipated 18-month construction period for the Export Pipeline System, an average of 320 round-trip truck trips distributed across an average of 7 crews working at a given time would be generated each working day during construction (HDR 2022). This equates to approximately five trucks per crew per hour, which would be dispersed across multiple locations within the Export Pipeline System construction area. All transport would be completed during daytime hours. Allowable work hours within the County ROW will be defined by an access agreement with general and special conditions that would be issued by the County and included in the County’s permission to construct and operate in the ROW. Noise effects are evaluated in Section 3.12.
2.5.2.4 Easement, Encroachment and Access Permission Requirements The Skyway segment of the Export Pipeline System is located within the County public ROW; therefore, construction would require a construction access agreement with general and special conditions from the County, as well as an ongoing access agreement for maintenance or other similar mechanism.
Once the pipeline alignment departs from Skyway to head towards the Chico WPCP, it would remain within an inactive UPRR rail corridor before bisecting two private parcels, owned by a single landowner; these crossings would require ROW acquisitions from UPRR and the private property owner. The total 237
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 58
length of pipeline that would be on private parcels is approximately 5,700 feet (1.1 miles). For crossing the private parcel, the Town would purchase both permanent and temporary (construction) easements from the parcel owner. The construction easements would provide sufficient space to install the export pipeline as well as for construction vehicles to move across the parcels and reach the public roads, shown in Figure 2-21. The permanent easements would be necessary to allow future access to the pipelines, should maintenance work be required. The pipeline would then cross SR 99, requiring a Caltrans encroachment permit, and finally reconnect to the County public ROW at Entler Avenue (Figure ES-3). The pipeline would follow County public roads to the Chico WPCP, again requiring a County access agreement with general and special conditions. Along this segment, the pipeline makes a trenchless crossing of an active UPRR rail corridor, requiring an additional UPRR encroachment permit. Table 2-6 provides estimates of the dimensions of temporary and permanent easements required for the various Export Pipeline System facilities.
Table 2-6. Approximate and Easement, Encroachment and Access Agreement Requirements for Export Pipeline System
Facility Approximate Permanent Access Approximate Temporary (Construction) Access Permission Agreement
Pipeline 15 feet wide, along the pipeline 55 feet wide, along the pipeline (includes the 15 feet of permanent easement)
Transition Chamber 35 by 35 feet (fee title) 60 by 60 feet Flow Control and
Metering Structure
25 feet wide by 50 feet long, direction
of pipe (fee title or on Chico WPCP
site)
75 feet wide by 80 feet long, direction of pipe
HDD Crossing 15 feet wide, along the pipeline Launching Pit: 75 feet wide by 150 feet long, direction of pipe Receiving Pit: 75 feet wide by 50 feet long, direction of pipe Microtunnel Crossing 15 feet wide, along the pipeline Launching Pit: 75 feet wide by 125 feet long, direction of pipe Receiving Pit: 75 feet wide by 100 feet long, direction of pipe
2.5.3 Extended Collection System
As described previously in this document, the Extended Collection System is part of the Proposed Project, but it is still conceptual in definition and the characteristics, timing, and/or locations of the facilities are not available at the time of this PEIR preparation. Therefore, it is being assessed at a programmatic level. Once the Extended Collection System construction is defined, the Town would consider whether subsequent CEQA documentation is required.
The Extended Collection System would be an extension of the Core Collection System that would allow collection of sewage from parcels outside the Core Collection System, within the Town limits. The flow from the Extended Collection System and Core Collection System combined would be limited to the total discharge agreed to between the Town and City, which is currently set at 0.464 mgd, the estimated build-out of the sewer service area (Section 2.2.2). Connection of the Extended Collection System to the Core Collection system leverages the proposed sewer infrastructure to serve additional parcels if the capacity in the system supports this extension. Expanding beyond the Core Collection System or sewer service area would magnify the benefits of reducing private septic systems, maximize use of the Chico WPCP treatment capacity allocated to the Town, and expand on the health and economic benefits to the Town. Further, the addition of the Expanded Collection System moves closer 238
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 59
towards a provision for a regional sewer system, which is a priority of the RWQCB (RWQCB 2020).
However, the overall purpose of the Proposed Project is not to serve the entire Town. Areas will continue to exist that are served by the existing District. Instead, the Extended Collection System will provide an opportunity for other property owners within Town limits to connect, particularly those owners with properties near the Core Collection System boundaries that aim to serve higher density uses, such as commercial or multi-family housing. In addition, no portion of the Extended Collection System would extend beyond the Town limits in any case, as presented in Figure ES-2. No sewer service connections would be considered outside the Town and pursuant to the principals of agreement with Chico (Section 1.3.2, Sewer Regionalization Project Advisory Committee Coordination), the project is not designed or intended to serve properties in unincorporated Butte County. Therefore, this PEIR is limited to consideration of physical effects that could result from sewer service connections that would be made within the Town limits.
The Extended Collection System would connect to the Core Collection System along its periphery. The Extended Collection System would consist of 2- to 6-inch-diameter force mains, 8-inch-diameter gravity trunk lines, and additional pump stations. It would likely be constructed as multiple smaller efforts, with geographically similar clusters of parcels within the Town limits being treated as separate individual projects. Other than a single private parcel crossing after leaving Skyway, the pipes would be constructed within existing Town public ROW. The methods and materials used to construct the Extended Collection System would be similar to the Core Collection System (Section 2.5.1). If an Extended Collection System is implemented in the future, it is assumed that similar crew composition and sizes as well as construction equipment would be used, but for shorter durations.
2.6 Proposed Schedule
Construction of the Core Collection System would occur over approximately 22 months, with mobilization beginning in August 2024 and completion by May 2026. The Export Pipeline System would be constructed over an 18-month period beginning in August 2024 and ending in January 2026. Each of these two Proposed Project components would go through their own individual startup periods, to confirm operation of each one individually. Then the entire system, composed of both Proposed Project components, would go through a 2-month system start-up period in June and July 2026, to confirm operation of the entire Proposed Project. Construction of any part of the Extended Collection System would occur following completion of construction of the Core Collection System and Export Pipeline System, and would be expected to occur between 2026 and 2056. Table 2-7 shows the anticipated construction schedule and sequencing for the Core Collection System, Extended Collection System, and Export Pipeline System, broken down by task.
Table 2-7. Construction Schedule for the Proposed Project Task Duration Projected Timeframe
Core Collection System
Mobilization 8 weeks August 2024 – October 2024
Gravity Mains and Collectors 1 year, 6 months October 2024 – March 2026 Force Mains 1 year, 10 months June 2025 – March 2026
Pump Stations 1 year, 10 months June 2025 – March 2026
239
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 60
Task Duration Projected Timeframe
Testing 8 weeks March 2026 – May 2026
Startup 2 weeks May 2026 – May 2026
Extended Collection System
Design and Construction Similar durations as above, but defined on project-by-project basis
2026 – 2056
Export Pipeline System
Mobilization 8 weeks August 2024 – October 2024
Open Cut Gravity and Force Mains 13 months October 2024 – October 2025 Transition Chamber 3 months October 2024 – December 2024 Flow Control and Metering Structure 4 months December 2024 – March 2025 HDD 4 months October 2024 – January 2025
Butte Creek Crossing 8 weeks October 2024 – November 2024 Comanche Creek Crossing 8 weeks November 2024 – December 2024 Little Chico Creek Crossing 8 weeks December 2024 – January 2025 Microtunneling (Bore and Jack) 3 months October 2024 – January 2025 SR 99 at Southgate 10 weeks October 2024 – December 2024 UPRR at Huss Lane 8 weeks December 2024 – January 2025 Testing 3 months October 2025 – December 2025
Startup 6 weeks December 2025 – January 2026
System Start‐up and Final Chico
WPCP Connection
8 weeks June 2026 – July 2026
As noted in Section 2.5.1, construction of the gravity sewer mains in the Core Collection System would likely be completed in segments, block by block, or multiple blocks at a time, starting from the downstream end of the system (at the southwestern edge of the Town) and working upstream, based on standard construction methods and gravity sewer installation. Construction of the Core Collection System pump stations and sewer force mains would occur at the same time as the gravity sewers.
Construction of the Export Pipeline System would also likely be divided into segments, with multiple segments under construction at the same time. The connection to the Chico WPCP would occur with Export Pipeline System construction.
The construction schedule assumes that work would occur in line with the noise ordinances of the Town, City, and County, which generally allows daytime work Monday through Saturday, excluding holidays. Noise-generating construction activities located within 1,000 feet of residential uses are further limited to daytime hours between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on weekdays and non-holidays by the Butte County General Plan 2030 (Butte County 2012). Night work might be needed so as to avoid tunnel failure during microtunneling at the UPRR active rail and SR 99 crossings (Section 2.5.2.2 Construction Methods). Both crossings are in highly disturbed areas, not zoned as residential and no residences are present. At these locations, as discussed in Section 2.5.2.2 Construction Methods, the contractor will be required to obtain a special permit from the County Public Works Department that will be appended to the utility encroachment permit for Proposed Project construction, along with additional conditions. The contractor will be held to all permit conditions. 240
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 61
The Proposed Project within the Core Collection System area would be operational in 2026, with consideration of the Extended Collection System connections through 2057. While the Proposed Project would be in place and able to receive inflow and discharge to the Chico WPCP in 2026, actual sewer flow would be discharged into the pipeline as the private properties connect to it. Initially, it is estimated that the Proposed Project would add 0.109 mgd of wastewater from the Town to the Chico WPCP influent. The full build-out flow of 464,000 gallons per day (0.464 mgd) may not be realized until 2057 or beyond.
2.7 Proposed Staging, Traffic Management, and Access Points This section describes the proposed locations of temporary staging areas, traffic management and anticipated temporary road closures during construction, and access points and truck routes anticipated during construction.
2.7.1 Potential Staging Areas
As shown in Figure ES-4, up to 11 staging areas for equipment and materials have been identified for potential use by the contractor to maximize access to work areas and store material. These areas have also been selected because they avoid effects on sensitive environmental resources. Because construction would be occurring at the same time on the Core Collection System and the Export Pipeline System, staging areas are considered here for the entire system. Staging areas would have temporary fencing installed to provide a secure storage area and might require minor grading to create a level work surface. No permanent paving would be done. Any unpaved areas temporarily used for construction staging would be returned to their original or better condition. If staging areas are located on public property, encroachment permits would be obtained from the public agency that owns the property. If staging areas are located on private property, temporary construction easements would be acquired from the private property owner.
2.7.2 Traffic Management and Temporary Construction Road Closures No permanent road closures would result from construction of the Proposed Project. Temporary full road closures are not anticipated; however, could occur, if necessary for public safety, for a short duration (approximately 2-4 hours). For locations where the pipeline is being installed along existing Town or County public ROW, temporary, single-lane road closures with traffic controls around the work areas could occur along the following roads:
Skyway
Entler Avenue
Midway
Hegan Lane
Elk Avenue
Lone Pine Avenue
Crouch Avenue
Chico Avenue
Taffee Avenue
Chico River Road
241
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 62
Figure 2-20. Potential Staging Areas
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
242
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 63
Only the County Public Works Director has the authority to approve road closures on Countymaintained roads subject to specific requirements for such road closures. See Section 3.9.4, Impact Analysis (Hazardous Materials) for a description of proposed construction mitigation measures that would be implemented in the event of an emergency evacuation. No road closures are planned within City limits.
2.7.3 Access and Truck Routes
The Export Pipeline System would be primarily constructed within the County public ROW except for approximately 5,700 feet (1.1 miles) of pipeline construction in southern Chico. When the proposed pipeline alignment leaves the Butte County public ROW at Skyway, east of SR 99, it would remain within an inactive UPRR corridor before bisecting two private parcels located within the City limits. See Figure ES-3 for the pipeline route location with the section of proposed crossing of private parcels identified. For crossing the private parcel, the Town would purchase both permanent and temporary (construction) easements from the parcel owner. The construction easements would provide sufficient space to install the export pipeline as well as for construction vehicles to move across the parcels and reach the public roads, shown in Figure 2-21. The permanent easements would be necessary to allow future access to the pipelines, should maintenance work be required (see Table 2-6 for additional information on easement requirements). For all construction, trucks moving equipment in and out, hauling away excess material, and importing material would follow these same routes or remain within public ROW. Trucks hauling loose materials, such as soil and gravel, would be covered to prevent damage to other vehicles.
2.8 Proposed Operation and Maintenance
The Town would own, operate, and maintain the Core Collection System, Export Pipeline System and Extended Collection System. The Town may hire additional staff to handle these operation and maintenance activities. These operations and maintenance staff will need a location for offices and equipment storage. The Town lost its corporation yard during the 2018 Camp Fire and is in the final stages of securing funding to commence rebuilding efforts. At this time, the Town does not have a location set for a new corporation yard, which could be at the old location (933 American Way) or could be at a location yet to be determined. In either case, the Town plans to co-locate at the corporation yard any wastewater operations staff and equipment with the traditional Public Works team and staff. The wastewater operations team would include the following support positions, some of which may be provided by current Town staff: administrative and reception staff, accounting staff, three field crew/utility staff, and one on-site service technician. The existing Public Works director would serve in a management role over sewer functions.
Prior to the start of operations, the Town will adopt applicable ordinances and establish internal administrative procedures to permit and regulate future property owner connections to the Proposed Project.
The Statewide General Waste Discharge Requirements for Sanitary Sewer Systems (Sanitary Sewer Systems General Order, or SSSGO) was adopted by the SWRCB in May 2006. The purpose of the SSSGO was to provide a consistent statewide approach for reducing sanitary sewer overflows 243
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 65
Figure 2-21. Access and Truck Routes
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
244
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 66
(including leakages). The SSSGO applies to all publicly owned sanitary sewer collection systems in California with more than one mile of sewer pipe. Since the Town’s collection system will have more than one mile of sewer pipe, and the Town will own and operate the collection system, the Town will comply with the SSSGO. The RWQCB will oversee the permitting of the Town’s collection system under the SSSGO. Per the SSSGO, and subject to its terms, the Town will need to develop a sewer system management plan. The sewer system management plan will include policies, procedures and activities covering the planning, management, operation and maintenance of the collection system. As part of this sewer system management plan, the Town must also develop and implement an overflow emergency response plan to identify measures to protect public health and the environment. Pursuant to the SSSGO, the Town will be required to report sanitary system overflows to the RWQCB using an electronic reporting system. Review and approval by the City and County of the Town’s proposed sewer system management plan would be required prior to start of operations.
Further, as previously discussed, the Town and the City will enter into an inter-municipal agreement that will capture the mutually determined details of the connection of the Town’s export pipeline to the Chico WPCP and will include system operations and maintenance protocols that will be required by the City. Additionally, the Butte County Department of Public Works will require an access agreement and/or permit with general and special conditions for maintenance of Town facilities located within the County’s ROW.
Therefore, review and approval of the Town’s proposed operations and maintenance standards and procedures by the RWQCB, the City, and the County (relevant to each one’s area of oversight) would be required prior to the start of operations.
Inspection, monitoring, and maintenance procedures that would be included in the Town’s sewer system management plan include, but are not limited, to the following. The Town, or other provider, would perform these protocols according to future agreements between the Town and City:
Inspections of the Core Collection System and the Export Pipeline System would occur one to two times per year, depending on deposition observed within the system. Inspection of pipelines within the system involves use of a camera system and not physical inspection of the pipeline. As needed, based upon the results of the camera inspections, the pipelines would be flushed to push deposited material farther down the pipelines to the Chico WPCP. During the early years of service, when flows are low, these flushing activities may need to occur several times per year, then less frequently as flows increase. Flushing is done by sending water through the pipes.
Physical on-site inspection and maintenance of the air release valves and odor control canisters would be done according to the maintenance protocols that accompany the devices, and would occur every 6 months to ensure optimal performance of these devices. Air release valves would be inspected to ensure they are operating properly. The odor control canisters would be replaced as needed when the carbon media becomes saturated and loses the ability to absorb odors.
Physical inspection and maintenance of instrumentation would occur monthly according to the maintenance protocols that accompany the instruments. This would include the flow meter, electric-actuated valve, level sensors, and pressure transducers within the transition chamber as well as the flow control and metering structure. This equipment would be replaced approximately every 5 to 10 years.
245
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 67
Flow data and wastewater samples would be collected from the flow control and metering structure. The flow measurement data would be transmitted continuously via radio or fiber-optic lines; therefore, site visits would not be required to obtain flow measurement data. Wastewater samples would be collected at the structure at a frequency established by agreement with the City and could be as frequently as daily.
While the Proposed Project components would be designed and constructed to maintain integrity during operations, it is always possible that a pipeline segment could break and result in a leak or overflow, for example during excavations by others near a pipeline. The Export Pipeline System would have pressure gauges in place to help detect the loss of pressure resulting from a break, which in turn would notify the Town Public Works Department that such a break has occurred. As part of the sewer system management plan developed under the SSSGO (see above), the Town would develop a sewer overflow response plan, which would require at a minimum:
o Proper notification procedures so that the primary responders and the regulatory agencies are informed of all overflows in a timely manner. o A program to ensure appropriate response to all overflows. o Procedures to ensure that appropriate staff and contractor personnel are aware of and follow the sewer overflow response plan and are appropriately trained to do so.
o Procedures to address emergency operations, such as traffic, crowd control and other necessary response activities.
o A program to ensure that all reasonable steps are taken to contain untreated wastewater and prevent discharge of untreated wastewater to waters of the US and minimize or correct any adverse impact on the environment. o The Town Public Works Department would have on-hand the equipment and spare parts necessary to rapidly implement a repair. During any excavations or other work on the pipeline by the Town Public Works Department, the same procedures and standards would apply as described immediately above for pipeline breaks.
2.9 Energy Consumption during Operations
The Proposed Project would use energy for wastewater collection and treatment during operations. The estimated energy demand for the Proposed Project is described in the following subsections; assessment of effects of the use of energy resources can be found in Section 3.6 Energy.
2.9.1 Energy Use of the Core Collection System
The Core Collection System would consist of an arrangement of gravity sewers, small pump stations, and force mains. Gravity sewers use energy resulting from a difference in elevation to remove wastewater, and no electricity is required to move the wastewater along the sewer. Because of the varied topography within the sewer service area, pump stations and pressurized force mains would be required to pump flows out of valleys and other low-lying areas to adjacent gravity sewers. The pump stations would consume electricity to move wastewater to higher elevations. Based on an average flow 246
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Project Description
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 68
of 0.464 mgd and standard pump efficiency, the pump stations would consume approximately 601,000 kilowatt hours per year of electrical energy. Refer to Appendix I Pump Station Energy Consumption Calculation for the energy demand calculations.
2.9.2 Energy Use at Chico WPCP
The annual average flow coming into the Chico WPCP is currently 6.3 mgd (Chico WPCP monitoring data, RWQCB 2021). The Proposed Project would add an additional 0.109 mgd of wastewater to the Chico WPCP influent at the time of initial connection (estimated for 2026) and 0.464 mgd at build-out (estimated for 2057). The Chico WPCP operates a 1.1-megawatt, solar photovoltaic facility that provides electric power to the WPCP, which reduces the plant’s use of utility power by approximately 35 percent. Further, an on-site 335-kilowatt co-generator uses methane produced by the plant processes as a fuel source to produce electricity, which is in turn used at the WPCP (City of Chico 2021a).
Therefore, energy efficiency and sustainability measures have already been built into the design of the Chico WPCP. While the Proposed Project would increase the amount of energy needed to treat wastewater at the existing Chico WPCP, it would be within current capacity at the time of connection and would not result in an inefficient use of energy.
247
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 69
3. Environmental Impact Analysis
3.1 Introduction
This chapter presents an evaluation of impacts that could result from implementation of the Proposed Project for 18 resource areas. Section 3.1 provides a brief regional environmental setting and overview of the Proposed Project baseline, defines the overall organization of Chapter 3 and explains the general methodology for assessing Project impacts. This section also identifies resource areas that were evaluated and found to have no potential for significant impacts based on the scope and nature of the Proposed Project activities and provides the justification for eliminating them from detailed analysis in this PEIR. Sections 3.2 through 0 describe the environmental setting, regulatory setting, method of analysis, impact analysis, and impact summary for each individual resource area. Section 0 summarizes the environmental impacts of the Proposed Project.
3.1.1 Regional Environmental Setting
As discussed in Section 2.1 Project Location, the Proposed Project is located within Butte County.
Butte County is located in north central California at the northern end of the Sacramento Valley, approximately 150 miles northeast of San Francisco and 70 miles north of Sacramento. Butte County adjoins Tehama County to the north and northwest, Plumas County to the east, Glen and Colusa Counties to the west, and Sutter and Yuba Counties to the south and southeast. The Sacramento River and Butte Creek form the western boundary of Butte County, while the South Fork of Honcut Creek forms the southeastern boundary of Butte County.
Elevation in Butte County ranges from approximately 60 feet above sea level in the southwestern corner of the county, adjacent to the Sacramento River, to approximately 8,100 feet above sea level in the northeastern corner of the county, near Butte Meadows. Butte County has three general topographical areas: the valley region, the foothills east of the valley, and the mountain region east of the foothills. The foothill region encompasses a quarter of Butte County’s land area. Occupying almost half of the county’s land, the valley region is a wide and expansive green plain, neatly divided with hedge rows that protect acres of cropland, nut and fruit orchards, and meadows for livestock grazing.
The foothill region includes hillside communities, such as Paradise. The foothill region also includes Feather Falls, the sixth tallest waterfall in the United States, and the Lake Oroville State Recreation Area. The mountain region makes up the remainder of Butte County and encompasses the majority of its eastern border. There is little urban development in this part of the county, and a large amount of the land is state- and federally owned.
This regional setting applies to all of the resource areas discussed in Section 3.2 Agriculture and Forestry Resources through Section 0 Wildfire. In addition, each of the resource sections includes a detailed description of the environmental setting specific to that resource and defines the study area used in the evaluation.
248
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 70
3.1.2 Baseline
In this chapter, the effects of Proposed Project implementation are compared with baseline physical conditions (environmental setting) as described under each resource area. The use of the resourcespecific baseline condition provides a basis for assessing the impacts of the Proposed Project in accordance with CEQA requirements. The baseline year for the Proposed Project is 2021 (post-fire conditions), which aligns with the release of the Notice of Preparation for the Proposed Project, which was released on May 3, 2021. The intent is to give the public and decision makers “the most accurate and understandable picture practically possible of the project’s likely near-term and long-term impacts” (CEQA Guidelines 15125 (a)).
3.1.3 Structure of the Environmental Impact Analysis
After certain resource areas have been eliminated, as set out in Section 3.1.5 below, this chapter has sections analyzing the following resource areas:
Section 3.2 Agriculture and Forestry Resources
Section 3.3 Air Quality
Section 0 Biological Resources
Section 0 Cultural Resources
Section 0 Energy
Section 0 Geology, Soils, and Paleontological Resources Section 3.8 Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Section 0 Hazards and Hazardous Materials
Section 0 Hydrology and Water Quality
Section 0 Land Use and Planning
Section 0 Noise and Groundborne Vibration
Section 0 Population and Housing
Section 0 Public Services
Section 0 Recreation
Section 0 Transportation
Section 0 Tribal Cultural Resources
Section 0 Utilities and Service Systems
Section 0 Wildfire
Each resource area analyzed in this chapter includes the following subsections:
Environmental Setting: Provides an overview of the existing physical conditions of an environmental resource in the study area at the time of publication of the NOP that could be affected by implementation of the Proposed Project. Establishing the existing conditions provides a basis of the analysis of potential impacts related to each environmental resource. Regulatory Framework: Provides an overview of the federal, state, regional, and local laws, regulations, policies, and plans relevant to the analysis of potential impacts related to each environmental resource.
249
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 71
Method of Analysis: Outlines the analysis methodology (quantitative and/or qualitative) for assessing the Proposed Project’s potential to impact each resource area. This section also identifies the sources of data used for the analysis and identifies the criteria used to determine the significance of potential impacts.
Impact Analysis: Provides a discussion of impacts associated with implementation of the Proposed Project. For each potential impact, a significance determination is made (that is, no impact, less than significant, less than significant with mitigation, or significant and unavoidable). If required, feasible mitigation measures are identified to reduce significant impacts.
Impacts Summary: A table summarizing the impact significance determinations for each criterion in each resource area.
References: Provides the references relevant to each resource area.
3.1.4 General Methodology for Assessing Impacts
3.1.4.1 Determining Significance under CEQA
Thresholds of significance for each resource were developed consistent with CEQA Guidelines Appendix G to determine the significance of potential impacts. Additionally, the CEQA Guidelines Appendix G checklist was augmented, where necessary, to ensure that all potential impacts of the Proposed Project are addressed.
The environmental review focuses on the potentially significant environmental effects of the Proposed Project. As defined in CEQA Guidelines Section 15382, a “significant effect on the environment” is “a substantial, or potentially substantial, adverse change in any of the physical conditions within the area affected by the project, including land, air, water, minerals, flora, fauna, ambient noise, and objects of historic or aesthetic significance. An economic or social change by itself would not be considered a significant effect on the environment. A social or economic change related to a physical change may be considered in determining whether a physical change is significant.” In evaluating the significance of the environmental effect of a project, the CEQA Guidelines require the lead agency to consider direct physical changes in the environment and reasonably foreseeable indirect physical changes in the environment that may be caused by the project (CEQA Guidelines Section 15064[d]). A direct physical change in the environment is a physical change in the environment that is caused by, and immediately related to, the project (CEQA Guidelines Section 15064[d][1]). An indirect physical change in the environment is a physical change in the environment that is not immediately related to the project, but that is caused indirectly by the project (CEQA Guidelines Section 15064[d][2]). An indirect physical change is to be considered only if that change is a reasonably foreseeable impact that may be caused by the project (CEQA Guidelines Section 15064[d][3]).
Further, as defined in CEQA Guidelines Section 15064(e), “economic and social changes resulting from a project will not be treated as significant effects on the environment. Economic or social changes may be used, however, to determine that a physical change would be regarded as a significant effect on the environment. Where a physical change is caused by economic or social effects of a project, the 250
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 72
physical change may be regarded as a significant effect in the same manner as any other physical change resulting from the project.”
3.1.4.2 Impact Analysis
CEQA requires a lead agency to determine the significance of all environmental impacts (California PRC Section 21082.2; CEQA Guidelines Section 15064). A threshold of significance for a given environmental impact defines the level of effect above which the lead agency will consider impacts to be significant and below which it will consider impacts to be less than significant. Thresholds of significance are identifiable, quantitative, qualitative, or performance levels for a particular environmental effect, whichever is most applicable to each specific type of environmental impact (CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.7[a]). The following terminology is used in this PEIR to describe the various levels and types of environmental impacts associated with the Proposed Project:
Significance threshold: A significance threshold is a criterion used by the Town, as lead agency under CEQA, to determine whether the magnitude of an adverse physical environmental impact would be significant. In accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15022(a), the Town used significance criteria that are based on CEQA Guidelines Appendix G and augmented, as necessary; factual and scientific information and data; and the regulatory standards of the federal, state, regional and local jurisdictions (as applicable) where the Proposed Project activities are proposed.
No Impact: No impact indicates that the construction, operation, and maintenance of the Proposed Project would not have a direct or indirect effect on the environment. It means no measurable or observable change from existing conditions would occur. This impact level does not require mitigation.
Less than Significant Impact: An impact is less than significant if the analysis concludes that the implementation of the Proposed Project would not exceed the applicable significance threshold. This impact level does not require mitigation, even if feasible, under CEQA. Significant Impact: A significant impact is defined by CEQA Section 21068 as one that would cause “a substantial, or potentially substantial adverse change in any of the physical conditions within the area affected by the project.” Levels of significance can vary by project, based on the change in the existing physical condition. Under CEQA, mitigation measures or alternatives to the project must be provided, where feasible, to reduce the magnitude of significant impacts. Significant and Unavoidable Impacts: A significant, unavoidable impact is one that would result in a substantial or potentially substantial adverse effect on the environment, and that could not be justifiably reduced to a less than significant level even with any feasible mitigation.
Under CEQA, a project with significant and unavoidable impacts could proceed, but the lead agency would be required to prepare a “statement of overriding considerations” in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15093, explaining why the lead agency would proceed with the project despite the potential for significant impacts.
3.1.4.3 Mitigation Measures
CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.4(a)(1) states that an EIR “will describe feasible measures which could minimize significant adverse impacts.” Mitigation measures identified in this PEIR were developed during the analysis and designed to reduce, minimize, or avoid potential environmental impacts 251
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 73
associated with construction, operations, and maintenance of the Proposed Project. Since measures may apply to multiple resource areas, they are labelled by the resource area where they are first defined, so full descriptions can be easily located in this PEIR. Full details for each mitigation measure are provided in the resource section where it is first applied; summaries and a reference to where the details can be found will be included in any subsequent resource section that applies that measure. The description of a mitigation measure states which specific Proposed Project activity the measure applies to.
3.1.5 Impacts Found to Be Not Significant
Resources eliminated from further analysis under CEQA include aesthetics and visual resources as well as mineral resources, for the reasons described below. CEQA Guidelines Appendix G criteria were used to evaluate the potential for effects for both resource areas.
3.1.5.1 Aesthetics and Visual Resources
The aesthetics and visual resources section should include an assessment of the potential for the Proposed Project to have a substantial adverse effect on designated scenic vistas, state scenic highways, and designated scenic resources in an area, such as conservation and open space areas by damage to the viewshed or introduction of new sources of substantial light or glare that would adversely affect views in the area. This also includes the potential to substantially degrading the visual character or quality of public views or conflict with applicable zoning and other regulations governing scenic quality (CEQA Guidelines Appendix G).
Butte County encompasses a number of natural vistas, landscapes, water resources, and scenic byways. Residential zonings are located immediately adjacent to (that is, within viewshed or next to) the Proposed Project study area (Figure 2-1). However, there are no areas designated for resource conservation in the study area nor immediately adjacent to the study area, and the study area does not contain areas designated as scenic vistas by the Caltrans Scenic Route Project (Butte County 2012; Caltrans 2021). Further, the Proposed Project would primarily be constructed below the surface within the public ROW and would only rise to the surface for parcel connections, at pump station locations within the Core and Extended Collection System alignments, at the transition chamber along the Export Pipeline System, and at the flow control and metering structure where the Export Pipeline System terminates at the Chico WPCP (Section 2.5 Proposed Project). The ROW associated with the Core Collection System is owned by the Town and private landowners (Section 2.5.1.4 Easement or Encroachment Requirements [Core Collection System]); the ROW associated with the Export Pipeline System is owned by the County and private landowners (Section 2.5.2.5 Easement or Encroachment Requirements [Export Pipeline System]). Project construction activities would be temporary and would be completed during daylight hours (Section 2.6 Proposed Schedule), outside of microtunneling at the UPRR active rail and SR 99 crossings (Section 2.5.2.2 Construction Methods) when night work could need to be completed so as to avoid tunnel failure. Both crossings are in highly disturbed areas, not zoned as residential and no residences are present. At the microtunneling locations, as discussed in Section 2.5.2.2 Construction Methods, the contractor will be required to obtain a special permit from the County Public Works Department that will be appended to the utility encroachment permit for the Proposed Project along with additional conditions. The contractor will be held to all permit conditions, including those related to lighting restrictions.
252
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 74
Project implementation will include installing permanent motion-detection security lights at aboveground facilities at each pump station within the Core Collection System (Section 2.5.1.1 Location and Description [Core Collection System]), and the Transition Chamber on Skyway (Section 2.5.2.1 Location and Description [Export Pipeline System]). The motion-detection lights would illuminate during maintenance estimated to occur monthly (Section 2.8 Proposed Operation and Maintenance) or if unauthorized access were to occur. These lights will be positioned to point away from residences and species habitats to avoid impacts on the public and wildlife species from light or glare. Because the Proposed Project would not result in a permanent adverse effect on a scenic resources or vista points, it would not change the aesthetic character in the Proposed Project area, and no new substantial sources of light or glare would occur, and no potential to significantly affect aesthetic resources would result from Proposed Project implementation.
3.1.5.2 Mineral Resources
The California Geological Survey produces Mineral Land Classification studies pursuant to the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act. Mineral Land Classification studies help identify areas with potentially important mineral resources that should be considered in local and regional planning. Based on a review of the California Department of Conservation’s (DOC) Mineral Land Classification interactive map, the Proposed Project is not located within a Mineral Land Classification study area (DOC 2015a).
The Core and Extended Collection Systems would be located within the Town limits. The Town is not characterized as a heavily mineralized zone, and no current mining operations occur in the Town (Town of Paradise and Quad Consultants 2008). A review of the US Geological Survey’s (USGS) Mineral Resources Online Spatial Data indicates that no past or present mineral resources occur within the Core and Extended Collection Systems area (USGS 2021). Therefore, construction, operation, and maintenance of the Core and Extended Collection Systems would result in no impacts to mineral resources
The Export Pipeline System would be located within the City and unincorporated Butte County. No active mines and no known areas with mineral resource deposits are located within the City (City of Chico 2010). Two mineral resource areas are within Butte County: M&T Chico Ranch and Martin Marietta Materials Table Mountain Quarry (Butte County 2010). The Export Pipeline System is not located within or near the mineral resource areas in Butte County.
Past or present mineral resources may occur along the Skyway segment of the Export Pipeline System in unincorporated Butte County (USGS 2021). No past or present mineral resources occur in the areas proposed for HDD and/or microtunneling. However, the Skyway segment of the Export Pipeline System would be constructed underground within the Butte County ROW. Parcels immediately adjacent to the Skyway segment of the Export Pipeline System are located in the Residential, Commercial, Industrial, Agriculture, and Manufacturing/Warehousing land use designations (see Figure 3.11-1 in Section 0 Land Use and Planning). None of the parcels immediately adjacent to the Export Pipeline System are designated for mineral resource conservation or mining and mining is not allowed in any of those zones. Therefore, construction, operation, and maintenance of the Proposed Project would not result in impacts to known mineral resources nor result in the loss of availability of a locally important resource recovery site, resulting in a less-than-significant impact. 253
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 75
3.2 Agriculture and Forestry Resources
This section describes the environmental setting and regulatory framework for agriculture and forestry resources and identifies direct and indirect impacts of the Proposed Project during construction, operation, and maintenance. In particular, the agriculture and forestry resources analysis focuses on prime farmland, unique farmland, farmland of statewide importance, Williamson Act contract parcels, forest land, and timberland in the study area where agriculture and forestry resources are most susceptible to change as a result of the Proposed Project’s construction, operation, and maintenance.
The study area for agriculture and forestry resources refers to the areas within and directly adjacent to the Town, City, and areas of unincorporated Butte County, where the proposed pipeline alignment runs.
3.2.1 Environmental Setting
3.2.1.1 Regional Setting
Butte County is located in the vast floodplain of the Sacramento River, an area that is particularly amenable to farming (Butte County 2010). Agriculture is the largest land use in Butte County, with the majority of farmland aggregated in the flat, western, rural areas of the County (Butte County 2012).
Existing agricultural lands within Butte County include field and row crops, orchards, grazing, dry farming, and timber (Butte County 2010). The DOC’s Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program (FMMP) identifies four classes of farmland in Butte County: Prime Farmland, Farmland of Statewide Importance, Unique Farmland, and Grazing Land. Refer to Section 3.2.2, Regulatory Framework, for a description of FMMP’s farmland classes. Table 3.2-1 summarizes the 2016 FMMP data for Butte County, which is the most recent year for which data is available.
Table 3.2-1. 2016 Farmland Classification in Butte County Farmland Category Acres Percent of Total
Prime Farmland 192,561 30
Farmland of Statewide Importance 21,598 3
Unique Farmland 23,279 4
Farmland of Local Importance 0 0
Grazing Land 400,165 63
Total 637,603 100
Source: DOC 2016
According to Table 3.2-1, the majority of agricultural land in Butte County is Grazing Land. Grazing Land occurs primarily in the mountain and foothill regions. Prime Farmland is located on the alluvial plain of the Sacramento River in the western portion of the county (Butte County 2010). Small areas classified as Farmland of Statewide Importance and Unique Farmland exist in the central, northwestern, and southwestern portions of the County (Butte County 2010).
Butte County participates in the California Land Conservation Act of 1965 (or Williamson Act) agricultural land preservation program. As of 2017, 1,425 parcels and 210,155 acres of land in Butte County are enrolled in the Williamson Act (Butte County 2021a). 254
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 76
The combination of ample rainfall, a long growing season, and deep soils result in good growing conditions for mixed conifer forest in Butte County (Butte County 2012). These timber resources are primarily located in the northern and eastern portions of the county at elevations between approximately 2,200 and 6,200 feet (Butte County 2012).
3.2.1.2 Local Setting
A review of the Butte County Important Farmland Map of 2018 (DOC 2021b) indicates that both the Town and City are designated as Urban and Built-Up Land. Based on a review of the Butte County Development Services Information interactive GIS map (Butte County 2021b), Williamson Act parcels are not present within the Town and City. No forest land nor timberland zoned parcels are located within the Town and City limits (City of Chico 2020b, Town of Paradise 2021a). No forest resources occur within the Town and City (Google Earth 2022).
3.2.1.3 Project Setting
The Core and Extended Collection Systems would be constructed within the Town limits, primarily within the public ROW. The Export Pipeline System would be primarily constructed within the Butte County public ROW, including the full length of the Skyway segment of the proposed pipeline When the proposed pipeline alignment leaves the Butte County public ROW at Skyway, it would remain within an inactive UPRR corridor before bisecting two privately owned parcels (single owner) located within the City. This would account for approximately 5,700 feet or 1.1 miles of the 18-mile proposed pipeline alignment and would require temporary or permanent easements from the landowner. The two parcels are designated as Urban and Built-Up Land and Other Land, have a zoning of CR – Regional Commercial, and are not enrolled in the Williamson Act (DOC 2021b, City of Chico 2020b, and Butte County 2021b). The proposed pipeline alignment would rejoin the Butte County public ROW at Entler Avenue after crossing SR 99. Continuing westward, the proposed pipeline alignment would remain in the Butte County public ROW and cross an active UPRR corridor until it connects to the Chico WPCP, which is designated as Urban and Built-Up Land (DOC 2021b) and has a land use designation of Public. Figure 3.2-1 shows the farmland classifications within the study area. Figure 3.2-2 shows the Williamson Act parcels within the study area.
A review of aerial imagery and street view images indicates that no forest nor timber resources occur within the study area (Google Earth 2022).
3.2.2 Regulatory Framework
This section summarizes the federal, state, regional, and local laws, regulations, policies, and plans relevant to evaluation of the Proposed Project’s impacts on agriculture and forestry resources.
Additional information on the relevant regulations, laws, and plans is provided in Appendix C, Regulatory Framework.
255
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report 77
Figure 3.2-1. Farmland Classifications in the Study Area 256
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.comFinal Program Environmental Impact Report 78
Figure 3.2-2. Williamson Act Parcels in the Study Area
257
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 79
3.2.2.1 Federal
Farmland Protection Policy Act
The Farmland Protection Policy Act is intended to minimize the impact federal programs have on the unnecessary and irreversible conversion of farmland to non-agricultural uses. The act ensures that federal programs are administered in a manner that is compatible with state, local, and private programs designed to protect farmland. The act does not authorize the federal government to regulate the use of private or non-federal land nor does it, in any way, affect owner property rights. Projects are subject to Farmland Protection Policy Act requirements if they may irreversibly convert farmland (directly or indirectly) to non-agricultural use and are completed by a federal agency or with assistance from a federal agency.
Although considered during the analysis, the Farmland Protection Policy Act would not apply to the Proposed Project because it would not convert farmland to non-agricultural use.
3.2.2.2 State
California Department of Conservation
The DOC provides services and information that promote environmental health, economic vitality, informed land-use decisions, and sound management of the state's natural resources. The DOC administers and supports a number of programs that are designed to preserve agricultural land and provide data on conversion of agricultural land to urban use. These programs include, but are not limited to, the FMMP and the Williamson Act.
The Proposed Project will be held to the programs administered by the DOC.
Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program
The FMMP produces maps and statistical data used for analyzing impacts on California’s agricultural resources. The maps are updated every two years using a computer mapping system, aerial imagery, public review, and field reconnaissance. The following FMMP categories are mapped by the DOC (DOC 2021a):
Prime Farmland: This farmland has the best combination of physical and chemical features able to sustain long-term agricultural production. Prime Farmland has the soil quality, growing season, and moisture supply needed to produce sustained high yields. Land must have been used for irrigated agriculture production at some time during the 4 years prior to the mapping date.
Farmland of Statewide Importance: This farmland is similar to Prime Farmland, but with minor shortcomings, such as greater slopes or less ability to store soil moisture. Land must have been used for irrigated agricultural production at some time during the 4 years prior to the mapping date.
Unique Farmland: Farmland of lesser quality soils used for the production of the state's leading agricultural crops. This land is usually irrigated but may include non-irrigated orchards or vineyards as found in some climatic zones in California. Land must have been cropped at some time during the 4 years prior to the mapping date. 258
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 80
Farmland of Local Importance: Land of importance to the local agricultural economy as determined by each county’s board of supervisors and a local advisory committee. Grazing Land: Land on which the existing vegetation is suited to the grazing of livestock. Urban and Built-up Land: Land occupied by structures with a building density of at least one unit to 1.5 acres, or approximately six structures to a 10-acre parcel. This land is used for residential, industrial, commercial, construction, institutional, public administration, railroad and other transportation yards, cemeteries, airports, golf courses, sanitary landfills, sewage treatment, water control structures, and other developed purposes. Other Land: Land not included in any other mapping category. Common examples include low density rural developments; brush, timber, wetland, and riparian areas not suitable for livestock grazing; confined livestock, poultry, or aquaculture facilities; strip mines or borrow pits; and waterbodies smaller than 40 acres. Vacant and non-agricultural land surrounded on all sides by urban development and greater than 40 acres is mapped as Other Land.
The Proposed Project will be held to the categories set forth by the FMMP.
California Land Conservation Act of 1965 (Williamson Act) The California Land Conservation Act of 1965, commonly referred to as the Williamson Act, is a nonmandated state program, administered by counties and cities to preserve agricultural land and discourage the premature conversion of agricultural land to urban uses. The act authorizes local governments and property owners to (voluntarily) enter into contracts to commit agricultural land to specified uses for 10 or more years. Once restricted, the land is valued for taxation based on its agricultural income rather than unrestricted market value, resulting in a lower tax rate for owners. In return, the owners guarantee that these properties remain under agricultural production for an initial 10-year period. The contract is renewed automatically unless the owner files a notice of nonrenewal, thereby maintaining a constant 10-year contract.
The Proposed Project will be held to the principles set forth by this act.
Z’berg-Nejedly Forest Practice Act
The Z’berg-Nejedly Forest Practice Act of 1973 established a set of rules known as the Forest Practice Rules to be applied to forest management-related activities (e.g., timber harvests, timberland conversions, fire hazard removal) on privately owned timberlands in California. They are intended to ensure that timber harvesting is conducted in a manner that will preserve and protect fish, wildlife, forests, and streams.
Although considered during the analysis, the Z’berg-Nejedly Forest Practice Act would not apply to the Proposed Project because this area does not include any forest resources nor forest managementrelated activities.
3.2.2.3 Regional and Local
Town of Paradise General Plan
The Town of Paradise General Plan (Town of Paradise and Quad Consultants 2008) includes the following policies related to agriculture and forestry resources that are relevant to the Proposed Project:
259
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 81
Policy OCEP-31: Retention of agricultural lands within the Town limits should be encouraged while recognizing that changing circumstances may necessitate a change in use for some lands.
Policy OCEP-32: Significantly important agricultural and timber production lands, particularly those located in the secondary and tertiary planning areas, will be identified and protected from incompatible development.
The Proposed Project will be held to the policies in the Town of Paradise General Plan.
Butte County General Plan 2030
The Butte County General Plan 2030 (Butte County 2012) includes the following policies related to agriculture and forestry resources that are relevant to the Proposed Project:
Policy LU-P13.1: Maintain the Chico Area Greenline, which will be located as shown on Figure LU-7.
Policy LU-P13.3: Recognize the Chico Area Greenline as the boundary between the “Urban Side of the Chico Area Greenline” and the “Agricultural Side of the Chico Area Greenline.” Policy LU-P13.7: Conserve and protect for agricultural use the lands in the Chico area that are situated on the Agricultural Side of the Chico Area Greenline. Policy COS-P11.3: Urban development will not limit the financial sustainability of timber operations.
Policy COS-P11.6: Public facilities will generally not be located in the Timber Production Zone if the facility will have a significant adverse effect on the production of timber unless alternative sites for an essential public use cannot be located elsewhere.
The Proposed Project will be held to the policies in the Butte County General Plan 2030.
Chico 2030 General Plan
The Chico 2030 General Plan (City of Chico 2017) includes the following policies related to agriculture and forestry resources that are relevant to the Proposed Project:
Policy OS-5.1, Urban/Rural Boundary: Protect agriculture by maintaining the Greenline between urban and rural uses.
Policy OS-5.2, Agricultural Resources: Minimize conflicts between urban and agricultural uses by requiring buffers or use restrictions.
The Proposed Project will be held to the policies in the Chico 2030 General Plan.
3.2.3 Method of Analysis
This section describes the methods used to analyze impacts on agriculture and forestry resources within the study area.
3.2.3.1 CEQA Significance Criteria
For the purposes of this PEIR, the Proposed Project would result in a significant impact on agriculture if it would:
260
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 82
Impact AG-1: Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to non-agricultural use. Impact AG-2: Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract. Impact AG-3: Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of, forest land (as defined in PRC Section 12220(g)), timberland (as defined by PRC Section 4526), or timberland zoned Timberland Production (as defined by California Government Code Section 51104(g)). Impact AG-4: Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use. Impact AG-5: Involve other changes in the existing environment which, due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of Farmland to non-agricultural use or conversion of forest land to non-forest use.
3.2.3.2 Approach to Analysis
Construction, Operation, and Maintenance
Impacts on agriculture and forestry resources were identified qualitatively based on the Proposed Project’s potential to affect agricultural lands and timber resources.
A desktop analysis was completed to collect and analyze data in the study area. Aerial imagery and street view images were used to identify the land uses that encompass the study area. Additionally, the following resources were used for data collection:
Butte County Important Farmland Map of 2018 (DOC 2021b) Butte County Development Services Information interactive GIS map (Butte County 2021b) City of Chico Zoning Map (City of Chico 2020b)
Butte County Zoning Map (Butte County 2019a)
The analysis of environmental effects focuses on foreseeable changes to agriculture and forestry resources in the context of effects listed in Section 3.2.3.1 CEQA Significance Criteria. The analysis considers the Core Collection System, Export Pipeline System, and Extended Collection System, as appropriate, in the context of construction, operation, and maintenance.
3.2.4 Impact Analysis
This section describes the potential environmental impacts on agriculture and forestry resources as a result of implementation of the Proposed Project.
3.2.4.1 Impact AG-1: Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to nonagricultural use (No Impact) Construction, Operation, and Maintenance
The Core and Extended Collection Systems would be located within the Town limits, primarily within the public ROW. Based on a review of the Butte County Important Farmland Map of 2018, Paradise is designated as Urban and Built-Up Land (DOC 2021b).
261
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 83
The Export Pipeline System would be located primarily within the Butte County public ROW. When the proposed pipeline alignment leaves the Butte County public ROW at Skyway, it would remain within an inactive UPRR corridor before bisecting two private parcels located within the City that are designated as Urban and Built-Up Land and Other Land (DOC 2021b). The remaining proposed pipeline alignment would be located within the Butte County public ROW, with a small segment of the pipeline crossing an active UPRR corridor.
Therefore, construction, operation, and maintenance of the Proposed Project would not convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance to non-agricultural use, resulting in no impact.
Mitigation. No mitigation required.
3.2.4.2 Impact AG-2: Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract (No Impact)
Construction, Operation, and Maintenance
The Core and Extended Collection Systems would be located within the Town limits, primarily within the public ROW. Based on a review of the Butte County Development Services Information interactive GIS map (Butte County 2021b), no Williamson Act parcels are present within the Town.
The Export Pipeline System would be primarily constructed within the Butte County public ROW. When the proposed pipeline alignment leaves the Butte County public ROW at Skyway, it would remain within an inactive UPRR corridor before bisecting two private parcels located within the City limits that have a zoning of CR – Regional Commercial (City of Chico 2020b) and are not enrolled in the Williamson Act (Butte County 2021b). The remaining proposed pipeline alignment would be located within the Butte County public ROW, with a small segment of the pipeline crossing an active UPRR corridor.
Therefore, construction, operation, and maintenance of the Proposed Project would not conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract, resulting in no impact.
Mitigation. No mitigation required.
3.2.4.3 Impact AG-3: Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of, forest land (as defined in PRC Section 12220(g)), timberland (as defined by PRC Section 4526), or timberland zoned Timberland Production (as defined by California Government Code Section 51104(g)) (No Impact)
Construction, Operation, and Maintenance
No lands zoned forest land, timberland, or timberland zoned Timberland Production occur within the study area (City of Chico 2020b, Town of Paradise 2021a, Butte County 2019a). Therefore, construction, operation, and maintenance of the Proposed Project would have no impact on zoning of forest land, timberland, or timberland zoned Timberland Production.
Mitigation. No mitigation required.
262
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 84
3.2.4.4 Impact AG-4: Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to nonforest use (No Impact) Construction, Operation, and Maintenance
A review of aerial imagery and street view images indicates no forest or timber resources occur within the study area (Google Earth 2022). Therefore, construction, operation, and maintenance of the Proposed Project would not result in the loss of forest land nor conversion of forest land to non-forest use, resulting in no impact.
Mitigation. No mitigation required.
3.2.4.5 Impact AG-5: Involve other changes in the existing environment which, due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of Farmland to non-agricultural use or conversion of forest land to non-forest use (Less than Significant Impact) As noted under Impact AG-4, no forest resources occur within the study area.
Construction
The Core and Extended Collection Systems would be constructed primarily within the Town ROW. No farmlands occur within the Town limits (Google Earth 2022).
The Export Pipeline System would be constructed primarily within the Butte County public ROW. No farmlands are adjacent to the Skyway segment of the Export Pipeline System. As the Export Pipeline System leaves the Butte County public ROW at Skyway and until it connects to the Chico WPCP, it would be adjacent to farmlands (Google Earth 2022).
Construction activities associated with the Export Pipeline System have the potential to result in temporary effects involving dust and stormwater runoff at adjacent farmlands (Google Earth 2022). The Proposed Project will be required to implement best practice measures to control fugitive dust emissions. Refer to Section 3.3 Air Quality for information on dust control measures that will be implemented during construction. As part of the Proposed Project, the Town will also be required to prepare a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) that includes best management measures to reduce stormwater runoff. Refer to Section 0 Hydrology and Water Quality for more information on SWPPP that will be implemented during construction. The temporary effects at adjacent farmlands would cease once construction is complete.
Therefore, construction of the Proposed Project would not result in conversion of farmland to nonagricultural use nor conversion of forest land to non-forest use. This is considered a less-thansignificant impact.
Mitigation. No mitigation required.
Operation and Maintenance
As discussed in Section 2.8 Proposed Operations and Maintenance, while the Core Collection System, Export Pipeline System, and Extended Collection System pipelines are designed to maintain their integrity during operations, it is always possible that a segment of pipeline could break, for example during excavations near a pipeline by others. Procedures to address a pipeline break are discussed in 263
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 85
Section 2.8. Operation and maintenance activities would be performed periodically according to the schedule discussed in Section 2.8.
Operation and maintenance activities, as described in Section 2.8, would not include ground-disturbing activities, except if a pipe broke and a section of pipeline needed to be replaced. In the case of a pipe break, the section will be repaired and returned to previous conditions as expeditiously as possible to limit impacts to the public and sewer service. Operation and maintenance activities would mostly occur in previously disturbed areas (within paved roads). Operation and maintenance activities, as described in Section 2.8, would not generate excessive dust nor substantially increase stormwater runoff near farmlands due to the infrequency of these activities. Therefore, operation and maintenance of the Proposed Project would not result in conversion of farmland to non-agricultural use nor conversion of forest land to non-forest use. As a result, no impact would occur.
Mitigation. No mitigation required.
3.2.5 Impacts Summary
Table 3.2-2 summarizes the agriculture and forestry resources impacts of the Proposed Project.
Table 3.2-2. Agriculture and Forestry Resources Impacts Summary Level of Level of
Impact Significance Mitigation Significance
Before with Mitigation
Mitigation Incorporated
Impact AG-1: Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to non-agricultural use
NI N/A NI
Impact AG-2: Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract
NI N/A NI
Impact AG-3: Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of, forest land (as defined in PRC Section 12220(g)), timberland (as defined by PRC Section 4526), or timberland zoned Timberland Production (as defined by California Government Code Section 51104(g))
NI N/A NI
Impact AG-4: Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use
NI N/A NI
Impact AG-5: Involve other changes in the existing environment which, due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of Farmland to non-agricultural use or conversion of forest land to non-forest use
LTS N/A LTS
Notes: LTS = Less than Significant Impact, NI = No Impact, N/A = Not Applicable, SI = Significant Impact, S/M = Significant Impact but Mitigable to a Less than Significant Level
264
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 86
3.2.6 References
Butte County. 2010. Butte County General Plan 2030 Draft EIR. April 8, 2010. https://www.buttecounty.net/Portals/10/Docs/GP2030/ButteCountyGP_PublicReview_ EIR.pdf?ver=2019-07-25-160952-113.
Butte County. 2012. Butte County General Plan 2030. Adopted October 26, 2010. Updated November 6, 2012. http://www.buttecounty.net/Portals/10/Planning/ButteCountyGeneralPlan2030_ May2018red.pdf?ver=2019-12-18-141822-357.
Butte County. 2019a. Butte County Zoning Map. April 2019. https://www.buttecounty.net/Portals/10/ Docs/Zoning/Zoning_Map_Poster.pdf?ver=2019-04-30-104419-940.
Butte County. 2021a. “The Land Conservation (Williamson) Act.” Development Services. Accessed July 30, 2021. https://www.buttecounty.net/dds/Planning/Williamson-Act-Information.
Butte County. 2021b. Development Services Information Interactive GIS Map. Accessed April 2021 and July 30, 2021. http://gis.buttecounty.net/Public/index.html?viewer=dssearch.
City of Chico. 2017. Chico 2030 General Plan. Adopted April 2011. Amended March 2017. https://chico.ca.us/post/chico-2030-general-plan.
City of Chico. 2020b. City of Chico Zoning Map. July 1, 2020. https://chico.ca.us/sites/main/files/fileattachments/citywebmap_zoning20170901aug2017.pdf?1594054713.
DOC. 2016. 2014–2016 California Farmland Conversion Report. Appendix A: 2014–2016 County Conversion Tables, Table A-3: Butte County 2014-2016 Land Use Conversion. https://www.conservation.ca.gov/dlrp/fmmp/Pages/Butte.aspx.
DOC. 2021a. “Important Farmland Categories.” Accessed July 29, 2021. https://www.conservation.ca.gov/dlrp/fmmp/Pages/Important-Farmland-Categories.aspx.
DOC. 2021b. Butte County Important Farmland Map 2018. March 2021. https://www.conservation.ca.gov/dlrp/fmmp/Pages/Butte.aspx.
Google Earth. 2022. Aerial imagery and street view of the study area. Accessed March 20, 2022. https://earth.google.com/web/.
Town of Paradise. 2021a. Town of Paradise Interactive GIS Viewer. Accessed April 2021. https://www.townofparadisemapping.com/.
Town of Paradise and Quad Consultants. 2008. Town of Paradise 1994 General Plan. Prepared for Town of Paradise Community Development Department. Amended January 2008. https://www.townofparadise.com/sites/default/files/fileattachments/planning/page/3251/townofp aradise-generalplan_1994.pdf.
265
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 87
3.3 Air Quality
This section describes the environmental setting and regulatory framework for air quality, and identifies direct and indirect impacts of the Proposed Project during construction, operation, and maintenance. In particular, the air quality analysis focuses on emissions of criteria air pollutants, toxic air contaminants (TACs), and odors in the study area where air quality is most susceptible to change as a result of the Proposed Project’s construction, operation, and maintenance. The study area for air quality is the entire Butte County because this is the area for which the Butte County Air Quality Management District (BCAQMD) has prepared plans for reducing specific types of air emissions, and manages air quality to meet federal and state air quality standards.
3.3.1 Environmental Setting
The Proposed Project is located in Butte County, which is within the Sacramento Valley Air Basin. The Sacramento Valley Air Basin encompasses approximately 14,994 square miles and is bordered on its east, north, and west by the Sierra Nevada, Cascade, and Coast Mountain ranges, respectively (BCAQMD 2014). The 11-county Sacramento Valley Air Basin is divided into two air quality planning areas based on the amount of pollutant transport from one area to the other and the level of emissions within each. Butte County is within the Northern Sacramento Valley Air Basin, which is composed of Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Shasta, Sutter, Tehama, and Yuba Counties (BCAQMD 2014).
3.3.1.1 Climate and Meteorology
Seasonal weather patterns affect regional and local air quality. The Sacramento Valley and Butte County have a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters (BCAQMD 2014). Winter weather is governed by cyclonic storms from the North Pacific, while summer weather is typically subject to a high-pressure cell that deflects storms from the region (BCAQMD 2014).
In Butte County, winters are generally mild, with daytime average temperatures in the low 50s°F and nighttime temperatures in the upper 30s°F (BCAQMD 2014). Temperatures range from an average January low of approximately 36°F to an average July high of approximately 96°F, although periodic lower and higher temperatures are common (BCAQMD 2014). Rainfall between October and May averages approximately 26 inches, but varies considerably year to year. Heavy snowfall often occurs in the northeastern mountainous portion of Butte County. Periodic rainstorms contrast with occasional stagnant weather and thick ground, or “tule,” fog in the moister, flatter parts of the valley. Winter winds generally come from the south, although north winds also occur.
Diminished air quality within Butte County largely results from local air pollution sources, transport of pollutants into the area from the south, the Northern Sacramento Valley Air Basin topography, prevailing wind patterns, and certain inversion conditions that differ with the season (BCAQMD 2014).
During summer, sinking air forms a “lid” over the region, confining pollution within a shallow layer near the ground that leads to photochemical smog and visibility problems. During winter nights, air near the ground cools, while the air above remains relatively warm, resulting in little air movement and localized pollution “hot spots” near emission sources. Carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, particulate matters, and 266
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 88
lead particulate concentrations tend to elevate during winter inversion conditions, when little air movement may persist for weeks (BCAQMD 2014).
3.3.1.2 Air Pollutants of Concern
The pollutants emitted into the ambient air by stationary and mobile sources are categorized as primary and/or secondary pollutants. Primary air pollutants are those that are emitted directly from sources.
Carbon monoxide (CO), reactive organic gases (ROG), nitrogen oxide (NOX), sulfur dioxide (SO2), inhalable particulate matter 10 micrometers and smaller (PM10), fine particulate matter 2.5 micrometers and smaller (PM2.5), and lead (Pb) are primary air pollutants. ROG and NOX are criteria pollutant precursors that form secondary criteria air pollutants such as ozone (O3) through chemical and photochemical reactions in the atmosphere. Each of the primary and secondary criteria air pollutants and its known health effects is described below (US Environmental Protection Agency [USEPA] 2021a).
Carbon Monoxide (CO). CO is a colorless, odorless gas produced by incomplete combustion of carbon substances, such as gasoline or diesel fuel. CO is a primary criteria air pollutant. CO concentrations tend to be the highest during winter mornings with little to no wind, when surface-based inversions trap the pollutant at ground levels. The highest ambient CO concentrations are generally found near traffic-congested corridors and intersections. The primary adverse health effect associated with CO is interference with normal oxygen transfer to the blood, which may result in tissue oxygen deprivation.
Reactive Organic Gases (ROG). ROG is a reactive chemical gas, composed of hydrocarbon compounds that may contribute to the formation of smog by their involvement in atmospheric chemical reactions. ROGs are emitted from a variety of sources, including liquid and solid fuel combustion, evaporation of organic solvents, and waste disposal. No ambient air quality standards have been established for ROGs.
Nitrogen Oxide (NOX). NOX is a by-product of fuel combustion and contributes to the formation of ground-level O3, PM10, and PM2.5. The two major forms of NOX are nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). NO is a colorless, odorless gas formed from atmospheric nitrogen and oxygen when combustion takes place under high temperature and/or high pressure. The principal form of NO2 produced by combustion is NO, but NO reacts with oxygen quickly to form NO2, creating the mixture of NO and NO2 commonly called NOX. NO2 is a reddish-brown gas that acts as an acute irritant and is more injurious than NO in equal concentrations. NO2 exposure concentrations near roadways are of concern for susceptible individuals, including people with asthma, children, and the elderly. Short-term NO2 exposures, ranging from 30 minutes to 24 hours, are known to result in adverse respiratory effects, including airway inflammation in healthy people and increased respiratory symptoms in people with asthma.
Sulfur Dioxide (SO2). SO2 is a colorless, pungent, irritating gas formed by the combustion of sulfurous fossil fuels. It enters the atmosphere as a result of burning high-sulfur-content fuel oils and coal as well as from chemical processes at chemical plants and refineries. When SO2 forms sulfates in the atmosphere, together these pollutants are referred to as sulfur oxides (SOX). Thus, SO2 is both a primary and secondary criteria air pollutant. At sufficiently high concentrations, SO2 may irritate the upper respiratory tract. Short-term exposures to SO2, ranging from 5 minutes to 24 hours, are known to 267
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 89
result in adverse respiratory effects, including bronchoconstriction and increased asthma symptoms. At lower concentrations and when combined with particulates, SO2 may do greater harm by injuring lung tissue.
Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5). Suspended particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) consists of finely divided solids or liquids such as soot, dust, aerosols, fumes, and mists. Inhalable coarse particles, or PM10, include particulate matter with a diameter of 10 micrometers or less. Fine particles, or PM2.5, have a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less. Particles that are 10 micrometers in diameter or smaller are of greatest concern because those are the particles that generally pass through the throat and nose, then enter the lungs. Once inhaled, these particles can affect the heart and lungs, and cause serious health effects. Particulate discharge into the atmosphere results primarily from industrial, agricultural, construction, and transportation activities. Health effects of particulate matter include premature death in people with heart or lung disease, nonfatal heart attacks, irregular heartbeat, aggravated asthma, decreased lung function, and increased respiratory symptoms (e.g., airway irritation, coughing, difficulty breathing). Particulate matter can also cause environmental effects such as visibility impairment, environmental damage, and aesthetic damage.
Lead (Pb). Pb is a metal found naturally in the environment as well as in manufactured products. The major sources of Pb emissions have historically been mobile and industrial sources. As a result of the USEPA’s regulatory efforts to remove Pb from motor vehicle gasoline, levels of Pb in the air decreased by 98 percent between 1980 and 2014. Today, the highest levels of Pb in air are usually found near lead smelters. Depending on the level of exposure, Pb can adversely affect the nervous system, kidney function, immune system, reproductive and developmental systems, and the cardiovascular system. Pb exposure also affects the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. The most commonly encountered effects of Pb in current populations are neurological effects in children and cardiovascular effects (e.g., high blood pressure, heart disease) in adults.
Ozone (O3). O3 is commonly referred to as “smog” and is a gas that is formed when ROGs and NOX, both by-products of internal combustion engine exhaust, undergo photochemical reactions in the presence of sunlight. O3 is a secondary criteria air pollutant. O3 poses a health threat to those who already suffer from respiratory diseases as well as to healthy people. Breathing O3 can trigger a variety of health problems, including chest pain, coughing, throat irritation, and congestion. It can worsen bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma. Ground-level O3 also can reduce lung function and inflame the linings of the lungs. Repeated exposure may permanently scar lung tissue. O3 also affects sensitive vegetation and ecosystems, including forests, parks, wildlife refuges, and wilderness areas.
3.3.1.3 Toxic Air Contaminants
California law defines a TAC as “an air pollutant which may cause or contribute to an increase in mortality or an increase in serious illness, or which may pose a present or potential hazard to human health” (California Air Resources Board [ARB] 2021a). TACs are pollutants that cause or may cause cancer or other serious health effects such as birth defects; neurological and reproductive disorders; or chronic eye, lung, or skin irritation. TACs also may cause adverse environmental and ecological effects.
They include such substances as volatile organic compounds; chlorinated hydrocarbons; asbestos; dioxin; toluene; gasoline engine exhaust; particulate matter emitted by diesel engines; and metals such as cadmium, mercury, chromium, and lead compounds, among many others. 268
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 90
Diesel engines emit a complex mixture of pollutants, including very small carbon particles, or “soot” coated with numerous organic compounds, known as diesel particulate matter. Diesel exhaust also contains more than 40 cancer-causing substances, most of which are readily adsorbed onto the soot particles. Diesel engine emissions are responsible for approximately 70 percent of California’s estimated cancer risk attributable to TACs (ARB 2021b). In 1998, the ARB identified diesel particulate matter as a TAC.
A primary source of diesel particulate matter emissions is combustion from diesel engines, such as those in trucks and other motor vehicles. Diesel particulate matter is of concern because it is a potential source of both cancer and non-cancer health effects, and because it is present at some concentration in all developed areas of the state. Diesel particulate matter contributes to numerous health impacts that have been attributed to particulate matter exposure, including increased hospital admissions, particularly for heart disease, but also for respiratory illnesses and even premature death.
3.3.1.4 Sensitive Receptors
Sensitive receptors are people that have an increased sensitivity to air pollution or environmental contaminants. Sensitive receptor locations include schools, parks and playgrounds, day care centers, nursing homes, hospitals, and residential dwelling units (BCAQMD 2014). The BCAQMD recommends evaluation of sensitive receptors within 1,000 feet of the project parcel(s) (BCAQMD 2014). Several sensitive receptors, including residential dwelling units, schools, nursing homes, hospitals, and day care centers, are found within a 1,000-foot radius buffer surrounding the Proposed Project. The closest sensitive receptors to the Proposed Project are the residential dwelling units along Entler Avenue in the City, which are located within 50 feet of the proposed pipeline alignment (Google Earth 2022). See Figure 3.3-1 for the location of sensitive receptors within a 1,000-foot buffer surrounding the Proposed Project.
3.3.2 Regulatory Framework
This section summarizes the federal, state, regional, and local laws, regulations, policies, and plans relevant to evaluation of the Proposed Project’s impacts on air quality. Additional information on the relevant regulations, laws, and plans is provided in Appendix C, Regulatory Framework.
3.3.2.1 Federal
Federal Clean Air Act and National Ambient Air Quality Standards The Federal Clean Air Act is the primary federal law governing air quality. The Federal Clean Air Act is regulated by the USEPA, which sets standards for the concentration of pollutants in the air. At the federal level, these standards are called National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). NAAQS have been established for six criteria air pollutants that have been linked to potential health concerns:
CO, NO2, O3, SO2, PM10, and PM2.5. Additionally, national standards exist for Pb. The NAAQS are set at levels that protect public health with a margin of safety and are subject to periodic review and revision. The Federal Clean Air Act requires USEPA to designate areas as attainment, nonattainment, or maintenance (an area that was previously nonattainment and is currently attainment) for each criteria pollutant based on whether the NAAQS have been achieved. 269
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 91
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
Figure 3.3-1. Sensitive Receptors within 1,000 feet of the Proposed Project 270
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 92
Butte County is designated as nonattainment for national O3 standards and attainment for all other federal standards (BCAQMD 2018).
The Proposed Project will be held to the NAAQS set forth by the Federal Clean Air Act.
Non-Road Diesel New Engine and Fuel Standards
The USEPA has adopted multiple tiers of emission standards for non-road (or off-road) diesel engines.
The non-road standards cover mobile non-road diesel engines of all sizes used in a wide range of construction, agricultural, and industrial equipment. Currently, the most stringent federal standards are Tier 4, which were adopted in 2014. The Tier 4 emissions standards have more stringent NOX, particulate matter, and hydrocarbon limits than the lower tiers. The CO emission limits for Tier 4 standards remain unchanged from the Tier 2 and Tier 3 standards.
The Proposed Project will be held to these standards.
National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants are stationary source standards for hazardous air pollutants. Hazardous air pollutants are those pollutants that are known or suspected to cause cancer or other serious health effects, such as reproductive effects or birth defects, or adverse environmental effects.
The Proposed Project will be held to these standards.
3.3.2.2 State
California Clean Air Act and California Ambient Air Quality Standards The ARB is responsible for meeting the state requirements of the Federal Clean Air Act, administering the California Clean Air Act, establishing the California Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS), establishing motor vehicle emissions standards, establishing passenger vehicle fuel specifications, and overseeing the functions of air districts (which, in turn, administer air quality activities at the regional and county levels).
In California, the California Clean Air Act is administered by the ARB at the state level and by the air quality management districts and air pollution control districts at the regional and local levels (air districts). CAAQS are generally more stringent than the corresponding federal standards, and incorporate additional standards for sulfates, hydrogen sulfide, vinyl chloride, and visibility-reducing particles. The California Clean Air Act requires the ARB to designate areas in California as either attainment or nonattainment for each criteria pollutant based on whether the CAAQS have been achieved. The California Clean Air Act requires an air quality attainment plan to be prepared for areas designated as nonattainment with regards to the NAAQS and CAAQS. Air quality attainment plans must outline emissions limits and control measures to achieve and maintain these standards by the earliest practical date.
Butte County is designated as nonattainment for state O3, PM10, and PM2.5 standards, attainment or unclassified for all other state standards (BCAQMD 2018, ARB 2021c).
The Proposed Project will be held to the CAAQS set forth by the California Clean Air Act. 271
Paradise Sewer Project | Final Program Environmental Impact Report Environmental Impact Analysis
hdrinc.com
Final Program Environmental Impact Report 93
Health Impacts of Regional Criteria Air Pollutants
In December 2018, the California Supreme Court released a decision in Sierra Club v. County of Fresno, 6 Cal. 5th 502, also known as the Friant Ranch Case, finding that CEQA requires that a connection be drawn between project emissions and human health impacts.
As explained in the amicus curiae brief submitted by the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District for the Friant Ranch case, air district significance thresholds were set at emissions levels tied to the region’s attainment status; they are emissions levels at which stationary pollution sources permitted by air districts must offset their emissions and CEQA projects must use feasible mitigation measures, and they are not intended to indicate any localized human health impact that a project may have.
Therefore, a project’s exceedance of the air district’s mass regional emission thresholds does not necessarily indicate that the project would cause or contribute to the exposure of sensitive receptors to ground-level concentrations of ozone greater than health-protective levels.
As suggested in the amicus curiae brief submitted for the Friant Ranch case, given the complexity of ozone formation and the current state of environmental science modeling, it is infeasible to determine whether, or the extent to which, a single project’s emissions of precursors (NOX and ROG) would result in the formation of secondary ground-level ozone, and to identify the geographic and temporal distribution of such secondary formed emissions. Furthermore, available models today are designed to determine regional, population-wide health impacts, and cannot accurately quantify ozone-related health impacts caused by project-related NOX or ROG emissions on the local (project) level. Therefore, it is infeasible to connect ozone precursor emissions at a project level to ozone-related health impacts.
The Proposed Project will be held to the conclusions in the amicus curiae brief submitted for the Friant Ranch Case.
Mobile Source Toxics and Toxic Air Contaminants
California regulates TACs primarily through Assembly Bill (AB) 1807, Toxic Air Contaminant Identification and Control Act (Tanner Act), and AB 2588, Air Toxics “Hot Spots” Information and Assessment Act of 1987 (Hot Spots Act). The Tanner Act sets forth a formal procedure for the ARB to designate substances as TAC and adopt an “airborne toxics control measure” for sources that emit designated TACs. If there is a safe threshold for a substance (a point below which there is no toxic effect), the control measure must reduce exposure to below that threshold. If there is no safe threshold, the measure must incorporate best available toxics control technology to minimize emissions. Under the Hot Spots Act, TAC emissions from individual facilities are quantified and prioritized by the air quality management district or air pollution control district. High-priority facilities are required to perform a health risk assessment and, if specific thresholds are exceeded, are required to communicate the results to the public in the form of notices and public meetings.