ADMIN DRAFT
Initial Study/Negative Declaration
City of Rialto Focused
General Plan Update
OCTOBER 2023
Prepared for:
CITY OF RIALTO
150 S. Palm Avenue
Rialto, CA 92376
Contact: Siri A. Champion
Prepared by:
605 Third Street
Encinitas, California 92024
Contact: Asha Bleier, Practice Director
Printed on 30% post-consumer recycled material.
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Table of Contents
SECTION PAGE
Acronyms and Abbreviations ............................................................................................................................................ iii 1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Project Overview ..................................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 California Environmental Quality Act Compliance ................................................................................ 1
1.3 Initial Study Checklist Overview ............................................................................................................. 1
1.4 Background ............................................................................................................................................. 3 2 Project Description ............................................................................................................................................... 5
2.1 Project Location ...................................................................................................................................... 5
2.2 Project Components ............................................................................................................................... 5
2.2.1 Land Use Element Update ........................................................................................................ 5
2.2.2 Safety Element Update ............................................................................................................. 6
2.2.3 Environmental Justice Element ............................................................................................... 6
2.2.4 Circulation Element Update ..................................................................................................... 8 3 Initial Study Checklist........................................................................................................................................... 9
3.1 Aesthetics ............................................................................................................................................ 14
3.2 Agriculture and Forestry Resources ................................................................................................... 15
3.3 Air Quality ............................................................................................................................................. 17
3.4 Biological Resources ........................................................................................................................... 19
3.5 Cultural Resources .............................................................................................................................. 21
3.6 Energy .................................................................................................................................................. 22
3.7 Geology and Soils ................................................................................................................................ 23
3.8 Greenhouse Gas Emissions ................................................................................................................ 26
3.9 Hazards and Hazardous Materials ..................................................................................................... 27
3.10 Hydrology and Water Quality ............................................................................................................... 32
3.11 Land Use and Planning ....................................................................................................................... 35
3.12 Mineral Resources .............................................................................................................................. 36
3.13 Noise .................................................................................................................................................... 37
3.14 Population and Housing ...................................................................................................................... 39
3.15 Public Services .................................................................................................................................... 40
3.16 Recreation ............................................................................................................................................ 42
3.17 Transportation ..................................................................................................................................... 43
3.18 Tribal Cultural Resources .................................................................................................................... 45
3.19 Utilities and Service Systems .............................................................................................................. 46
3.20 Wildfire ................................................................................................................................................. 48
3.21 Mandatory Findings of Significance ................................................................................................... 50
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4 References and Preparers ................................................................................................................................... 1
4.1 References Cited .................................................................................................................................... 1
4.2 List of Preparers ..................................................................................................................................... 1
APPENDIX(CES)
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FIGURE(S)
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TABLE(S)
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Acronyms and Abbreviations
Acronym/Abbreviation Definition
AQMP Air Quality Management Plan
BMP Best Management Practice
City City of Rialto
CEQA California Environmental Quality Act
CPTED Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design
CWPP Community Wildfire Protection Plan
DAC Disadvantaged Community
EIR Environmental Impact Report
EJC Environmental Justice Community
EOC Emergency Operations Center
EOP Emergency Operations Plan
FHSZ Fire Hazard Severity Zone
I Interstate
IS Initial Study
ISA Impervious Surface Area
LAWA Los Angeles World Airport/Ontario International Airport MHFP Multi-Hazard Function Plan
NAAQS National Ambient Air Quality Standards
ND Negative Declaration
NPDES National Pollution Discharge Elimination System
RHNA Regional Housing Needs Assessment
SB 1000 Senate Bill 1000
SCAG Southern California Association of Governments
SCAQMD South Coast Air Quality Management District
SEMS Standard Emergency Management System
SoCAB South Coast Air Basin
SR State Route
SWPPP Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan
VMT Vehicle Miles Traveled
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1 Introduction
1.1 Project Overview
The City of Rialto (City) is preparing an amendment to the Rialto General Plan. The City’s General Plan serves as a "blueprint" for how the City of Rialto will grow. The proposed amendment is a Focused General Plan Update, which will include updates to the Land Use, Safety, and Circulation Elements, and the establishment of a new state - mandated Environmental Justice Element.
1.2 California Environmental Quality Act Compliance
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), a statewide environmental law described in California Public Resources Code, Sections 21000 –21177, applies to most public agency decisions to carry out, authorize, or approve actions that have the potential to adversely affect the environment. The overarching goal of CEQA is to protect the physical environment. To achieve that goal, CEQA requires that public agencies identify the environmental consequences of their discretionary actions and consider alternatives and mitigation measures that could avoid or reduce significant adverse impacts when avoidance or reduction is feasible. It also gives other public agencies and the public an opportunity to comment on the information. If significant adverse impacts cannot be avoided, reduced, or mitigated to b elow a level of significance, the public agency is required to prepare an environmental impact report (EIR) and balance the project’s environmental concerns with other goals and benefits in a statement of overriding considerations.
The City’s Community Development Department – Planning Division directed and supervised the preparation of this Initial Study (IS)/Negative Declaration (ND). Although prepared with assistance from the consulting firm Dudek, the content contained within and the conclusions drawn by this IS/ND reflect the independent judgment of the City.
1.3 Initial Study Checklist Overview
The following Environmental Checklist (i.e., IS) was prepared per CEQA Guidelines Sections 15063 –15065. The CEQA Guidelines include a suggested checklist to indicate whether a project would have an adverse impact on the environment. The checklist is found in Section 3 of this document. Following the Environmental Checklist, Sections
3.1 through 3.21 include an explanation and discussion of each significance determination made in the checklist for the project.
For this IS/ND, the following four possible responses to each individual environmental issue area are included in the checklist:
1. Potentially Significant Impact
2. Less-than-Significant Impact with Mitigation Incorporated
3. Less-than-Significant Impact
4. No Impact
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The checklist and accompanying explanation of checklist responses provide the information and analysis necessary to assess relative environmental impacts of the project. In doing so, the City will determine the extent of additional environmental review, if any, for the project.
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1.4 Background
The City of Rialto is located in western San Bernardino Valley, surrounded by the cities of Fontana to the west, Colton to the east, unincorporated Riverside County to the south, and unincorporated San Bernardino County to the north. The City is four (4) miles wide and eight (8) and one-half miles long.
The General Plan covers the entire City of Rialto and its “sphere of influence” (together referred to as the project area hereafter). The spere of influence is the unincorporated area within the jurisdiction of the County of San Bernardino that may have a bearing on planning activities in Rialto. Rialto has two large sphere of influence areas:
Bloomington and Lytle Creek. There are also several small pockets of unincorporated San Bernardino County “islands” located in the northern area of Rialto, near the SR-210 freeway and Linden Avenue (see Figure 1. Project Location and Figure 2, Aerial Photograph).
The population of the City of Rialto was approximately 104,100 people in 2020 (Rialto 202 3). In 2019, adults between 20 and 34 years of age made up the largest percentage of the population at 25.5 percent. Persons over the age of 50 made up 2 4.7 percent of the population in 2019. Rialto’s population is mostly made up of persons identifying as Hispanic or Latino (74.3 percent).
The City of Rialto had approximately 24,400 jobs in 2020. The largest portion of the employment opportunities were in the Education Services, Health Care, and Social Assistance sector, at a rate of 16.9 percent of total jobs.
The Rialto population also had high rates of employment in the Transportation and Warehousing , and Utilities industries (14.8 percent) and the Retai l Trade industry (13.7 percent). The median income in the City is approximately $61,518.
Rialto had 26,033 households in 2019. Over half are married-couple family households. Just under 20 percent of Rialto households are female households, with no spouse present. Non-family households represent 17.4 percent of total Rialto households. Non -family households include persons living alone and those living with roommates.
The City had approximately 27,198 housing units in 2019. Of these housing units, 70.8 percent were single -unit detached houses, 2 percent were single -unit attached houses, 20.8 percent were multi -unit house s, and 6.4 percent were mobile homes.
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2 Project Description
2.1 Project Location
The City of Rialto is in western San Bernardino Valley in the Southern California region known as the “Inland Empire”.
The City is four (4) miles wide and eight and a half ( 8.5) miles long and is bounded by the city of Fontana to the west, Colton to the east, unincorporated areas of Riverside County to the south, and unincorporated areas of San Bernardino County to the north. The city is geographically located between the foothills of the San Gabriel and San Bernardino Mountains, at the mouth of the Cajon Pass. Lytle Creek Wash runs down from the San Bernardino Mountains from the northwest to the southeast along the northern border of the incorporated area of the City, where it meets with the S anta Ana River southeast of the City (see Figure 1 Project Location and Figure 2, Aerial Photograph).
Interstate (I)-215 and I-15 freeways, traversing north-south, and I-10 freeway, traversing east-west, provide regional access to the City. State Route (SR) – 210 also provides access to the City as it traverses in the central portion of the City east-west. Two railroads also run through the City and are located adjacently east-west.
2.2 Project Components
The proposed updates include existing Land Use, Safety, and Circulation Elements of the City’s General Plan, and the new Environmental Justice Element. Descriptions of the proposed updated and new elements follow.
2.2.1 Land Use Element Update
The Land Use Element is currently part of the City’s General Plan located in Chapter 2, Managing Our Land Supply, and was adopted in December 2010 by City Council as Resolution No. 5931. The Land Use Element describes the general location, type, and intensity of development, and designates the distribution of land uses throughout Rialto.
Land uses such as residential, commercial, industrial, open space, and public uses are planned to meet the needs of residents, support the local economy, achieve the City’s fiscal goals, and create an environment that fosters a high quality of life in the City of Rialto. This Land Use Element sets policies for land uses in the City and in the Sphere of Influence, establishing the foundation for future development. Listed within the document are the permitted density and intensity of various land uses.
The Land Use Element Update is focused on assuring consistency with the City’s recently adopted 6th Cycle Housing Element and associated Residential Overlay Program. Updates will also be completed to maintain consistency with the Safety and Environmental Justice Elements as they relate to land use topics and issues. More specifically, the Land Use Overlays section and exhibits will reflect the new Residential Overlay Program, adopted July 25, 2023 by Resolution [8116]. Land use changes in the form of data and mapping clean-up will be completed to ensure that the updated land use element will be consistent with r ecently approved amendments to the General Plan. These changes are administrative in nature and would consist of land use revisions that were previously approved.
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2.2.2 Safety Element Update
The Safety Element was last adopted in December 2010 by City Council Resolution No. 5931. The proposed Safety Element Update will incorporate recently adopted State laws that will need to be performed, updated, and include the following:
a) Identify and update information related to:
• Seismic and geologic hazards;
• Evacuation routes;
• Military installations;
• Peak-load water supply requirements;
• Minimum road widths and clearances around structures; • Flood hazards; and
• Fire hazards.
b) Prepare a climate change vulnerability assessment and develop climate adaptation and resilience strategies.
c) Identify residential developments in any hazard area that does not have at least two (2) evacuation routes.
In accordance with State law ( Government Code Section 65302), the City has prepared an update to its Safety Element, which focuses on addressing the following hazards and provides policies and actions that the City will implement as part of its General Plan:
• Extreme heat
• Flooding
• Geologic and seismic hazards
• Hazardous materials
• Wildfires
• Emergency preparation and response
The proposed Safety Element Update is available at: 2023 City of Rialto Focused General Plan Update | Rialto, CA (yourrialto.com)]
2.2.3 Environmental Justice Element
A new state mandated Environmental Justice Element is proposed as part of the City’s General Plan update. In 2016, the State of California passed Senate Bill 1000 (SB 1000) requiring cities and counties to address Environmental Justice in their general plans . The State of California defines Environmental Justice as “the fair treatment of people of all races, cultures, and incomes with respect to the development, adoption, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies.” (California Government Code § 65040.12.e.) .
The City has prepared a standalone Environmental Justice Element rather than integrating Environmental Justice policies among existing General Plan elements. As provided by State Government Code Section 65302(h), the Environmental Justice Element has the same weight as the mandatory elements of the General Plan and is internally consistent with the other elements.
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The purpose of the Environmental Justice Element is to address public health risks and environmental justice concerns of those living in disadvantaged communities as defined in Government Code Section 65302, subdivision (h)(4)(A), many of which are the re sult of geographic or procedural inequities. Consistent with requirements of SB 1000, the Environmental Justice Element contains goals and policies that identify:
1) Disadvantaged communities (DACs), also known as Environmental Justice Communities (EJCs), within the City’s General Plan planning area.
2) Objectives and policies to:
a. Reduce unique or compounded health risks in EJCs through assessing conditions in Environmental Justice Topic Areas that include but are not limited to:
i. Reducing pollution exposure and improving air quality; ii. Promoting public facilities, defined as public improvements, public services, and community amenities;
iii. Promoting food access;
iv. Promoting safe and sanitary homes; and
v. Promoting physical activity.
b. Promote civic engagement in public decision making.
c. Prioritize improvements and programs to address the needs of EJCs.
The proposed Environmental Justice Element organizes goals and policies into the following sections: Pollution; Air Quality; Promoting Access to Public Facilities; Promoting Access to Healthy Food; Promoting Access to Safe and Sanitary Homes; Promoting Access to Physical Activity; Promoting Civic Engagement; and Prioritizing Improvements and Programs for EJCs. The plan includes fifteen (15) goals, which provide policies and actions that the City will implement as part of its General Plan and are as follows:
1) Monitor public health outcomes.
2) Create shaded and safe corridors between transit stops and important community services, including schools, cooling centers, job centers, and residential areas where people depend on transit. 3) Establish and maintain a comprehensive system of pedestrian trails and bicycle routes that provide viable connections through the City and prioritize implementation in DACs with limited walking and biking infrastructure.
4) Increase safe and comfortable walking and wheelchair mobility. 5) Reduce air pollution impacts in EJCs.
6) Proactively address hazardous waste and water pollution concerns where possible, and aggressively pursue actions that correct spills and contamination when it occurs. 7) Prioritize urban greening in areas with limited parks and high pollution exposure. 8) Provide for all residents and businesses to have equal access to reliable and convenient public transit services.
9) Expand access and foster a welcoming environment for all at public facilities and events in Rialto. 10) Expand access to healthy food.
11) Encourage physical activity.
12) Improve methods for consistent meaning and proactive public engagement.
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13) Promote improvements and rehabilitation of unsafe housing in EJCs, while actively preventing displacement.
14) Fair housing options for all.
The proposed Environmental Justice Element to the City’s General Plan is available at: [ https://www.yourrialto.com/773/2023-City-of-Rialto-Focused-General-Plan]
2.2.4 Circulation Element Update
The Circulation Element was last adopted as part of the City’s General Plan in December 2010 by City Council Resolution No. 5931. The project proposes an update to the Circulation Map with no other components of the Circulation Element being updated or revised. The Circulation Map would be updated to revise the exi sting truck routes. Three truck routes are proposed to be added:
• Two blocks along Foothill Boulevard between Cedar Avenue and Maple Avenue (the boundary with City of Fontana)
• Two blocks along Arrow Boulevard between Cedar Avenue and Maple Avenue (the boun dary with City of Fontana)
• Agua Mansa Road between Riverside Avenue and the boundary with City of Fontana Four truck routes would be removed:
• Riverside Avenue from Locust Avenue to Ayala Drive
• Ayala Drive from Casmalia Street to Riverside Avenue
• Ayala Drive from I-210 freeway to Baseline Road
• Baseline Road from Cedar Avenue to east city limits
• Pepper Avenue from I-210 freeway to Rialto Avenue
• Santa Ana Avenue between west city limits and east city limits
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3 Initial Study Checklist
1. Project title:
The City of Rialto General Plan Update Project
2. Lead agency name and address:
City of Rialto
Community Development – Planning Division
150 S. Palm Avenue
Rialto, California 92376
3. Contact person and phone number:
Siri Champion
City of Rialto Community Development – Planning Division 150 S. Palm Avenue
Rialto, California 92376
4. Project location:
City of Rialto
5. Project sponsor’s name and address:
City of Rialto
Community Development – Planning Division
150 S. Palm Avenue
Rialto, California 92376
6. General plan designation:
N/A (includes entire City jurisdiction)
7. Zoning:
N/A (includes entire City jurisdiction)
8. Description of project. (Describe the whole action involved, including but not limited to later phases of the project, and any secondary, support, or off-site features necessary for its implementation. Attach additional sheets if necessary):
The proposed project is an update to the General Plan Land Use, Safety, and Circulation Elements, a nd introduction and development of a new Environmental Justice Element. The update would include new and revised goals and policies to better align with recent State laws and regulations, and the City’s needs and priorities.
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9. Surrounding land uses and setting: Briefly describe the project’s surroundings:
The City of Rialto is a developed city within an urbanized region of the County of San Bernardino with patches of developable vacant land . Surrounding cities in the region are Fontana, Colton, and San Bernardino.
10. Other public agencies whose approval is required (e.g., permits, financing approval, or participation agreement):
City of Rialto
11. Have California Native American tribes traditionally and culturally affiliated with the project area requested consultation pursuant to Public Resources Code section 21080.3.1? If so, is there a plan for consultation that includes, for example, the determination of significance of impacts to tribal cu ltural resources, procedures regarding confidentiality, etc.?
Tribal consultation pursuant to AB 52 and SB 18 was completed for the project. Notifications were mailed on May 26, 2023. To date, the following responses were received:
• Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation – received a request from Samuel for consultation. Staff met with Samuel on August 29th 2023. Staff provided additional information on September 20, 2023. Staff followed up on October 24th and October 31, 2023, and on November 10th . No comments have been received. • Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians – Kizh Nation – Received a letter on June 5, 2023, concurring with the General Plan Update. Requested consultation on all future projects. • Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians - Received an e-mail on May 31st 2023 deferring to other tribes in the area.
• Quechen Tribe of the Fort Yuma Reservation - received an e-mail on June 13th 2023 deferring to more local tribes.
Environmental Factors Potentially Affected
The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least one impact that is a “Potentially Significant Impact,” as indicated by the checklist on the following pages.
Aesthetics Agriculture and
Forestry Resources
Air Quality
Biological Resources Cultural Resources Energy
Geology and Soils Greenhouse Gas
Emissions
Hazards and Hazardous
Materials
Hydrology and Water Quality Land Use and
Planning
Mineral Resources
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Noise Population and
Housing
Public Services
Recreation Transportation Tribal Cultural Resources Utilities and Service Systems Wildfire Mandatory Findings of Significance
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Determination (To be completed by the Lead Agency)
On the basis of this initial evaluation:
I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the project have been made by or agreed to by the project proponent. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required.
I find that the proposed project MAY have a “potentially significant impact” or “potentially significant unless mitigated” impact on the environment, but at least one effect (1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and (2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTA L IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed.
I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environme nt, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further is required.
Signature
Date
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Evaluation of Environmental Impacts
A brief explanation is required for all answers except “No Impact” answers that are adequately supported by the information sources a lead agency cites in the parentheses following each question. A “No Impact” answer is adequately supported if the referenc ed information sources show that the impact simply does not apply to projects like the one involved (e.g., the project falls outside a fault rupture zone). A “No Impact” answer should be explained where it is based on project-specific factors as well as general standards (e.g., the project would not expose sensitive receptors to pollutants, based on a project -specific screening analysis).
All answers must take account of the whole action involved, including off-site as well as on-site, cumulative as well as project-level, indirect as well as direct, and construction as well as operational impacts.
Once the lead agency has determined that a particular physical impact may occur, then the checklist answers must indicate whether the impact is potentially significant, less than significant with mitigation, or less than significant. “Potentially Significant Impact” is appropriate if there is substantial evidence that an effect may be significant. If there are one or more “Potentially Significant Impact” entries whe n the determination is made, an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) is required. “Negative Declaration: Less Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated” applies where the incorporation of mitigation measures has reduced an effect from “Potentially Signifi cant Impact” to a “Less Than Significant Impact.” The lead agency must describe the mitigation measures, and briefly explain how they reduce the effect to a less than significant level.
Earlier analyses may be used where, pursuant to the tiering, program EIR, or other CEQA process, an effect has been adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or negative declaration. Section 15063(c)(3)(D). In this case, a brief discussion should identify the following:
a. Earlier Analysis Used. Identify and state where they are available for review. b. Impacts Adequately Addressed. Identify which effects from the above checklist were within the scope of and adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and state whether such effects were addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis. c. Mitigation Measures. For effects that are “Less Than Significant With Mitigation Measures Incorporated,” describe the mitigation measures which were incorporated or refined from the earlier document and the extent to which they address site-specific conditions for the project.
Lead agencies are encouraged to incorporate into the checklist references to information sources for potential impacts (e.g., general plans, zoning ordinances). Reference to a prev iously prepared or outside document should, where appropriate, include a reference to the page or pages where the statement is substantiated.
Supporting Information Sources: A source list should be attached, and other sources used or individuals contacted should be cited in the discussion.
This is only a suggested form, and lead agencies are free to use different formats; however, lead agencies should normally address the questions from this checklist that are relevant to a project’s environmental effects in whatever format is selected.
The explanation of each issue should identify:
a. the significance criteria or threshold, if any, used to evaluate each question; and b. the mitigation measure identified, if any, to reduce the impact to less than significance
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3.1 Aesthetics
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
I. AESTHETICS – Except as provided in Public Resources Code Section 21099, would the project:
a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a
scenic vista?
b) Substantially damage scenic resources,
including, but not limited to, trees, rock
outcroppings, and historic buildings within a
state scenic highway?
c) In non-urbanized areas, substantially
degrade the existing visual character or
quality of public views of the site and its
surroundings? (Public views are those that
are experienced from publicly accessible
vantage point). If the project is in an
urbanized area, would the project conflict
with applicable zoning and other regulations
governing scenic quality?
d) Create a new source of substantial light or
glare which would adversely affect day or
nighttime views in the area?
a) Would the project have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? No Impact. The proposed project includes updates to the existing Land Use, Safety, and Circulation Elements of the City’s Gene ral Plan, and the new Environmental Justice Element. The project would implement goals, policies, and land use designations to ensure consistency between all General Plan elements and State law . These policies and land use designation updates would be cons istent with the Housing Element Update and the Residential Overlay Program that was previously approved by the City. No actual development or construction is proposed as part of the updates. Therefore, the implementation of the proposed project would result in administrative and policy-level changes and would not result in physical development or affects to scenic vistas. No impact would occur. b) Would the project substantially damage scenic resources , including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway? No Impact. The Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update, and new Environmental Justice Element are policy docu ments and adoption of these Elements alone would not damage scenic resources. The City of Rialto does not contain any state scenic highways. The nearest state scenic highway is SR-330, located approximately 8.5 miles east of Rialto (Caltrans 2023). Implementation of the proposed updates would not involve development. Therefore, implementation of the proposed project would not have impacts to scenic resources within a state scenic highway. No impact would occur.
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c) In non-urbanized areas, would the project substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of public views of the site and its surroundings? (Public views are those that are experienced from publicly accessible vantage point). If the project is in an urbanized area, would the project conflict with applicable zoning and other regulations governing scenic quality?
No Impact. Per PRC Section 21071, an “urbanized area” is defined as “(a) An incorporated city that meets either of the following criteria: (1) Has a population of at least 100,000 persons. [or] (2) Has a population of less than 100,000 persons if the population of that city and not more than two contiguous incorporated cities combined equals at least 100,000 persons.” The City of Rialto has a population of 103,545, therefore classifying it as an urbanized area (U.S. Census Bureau 202 2. The Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update, and new Environmental Justice Element are policy documents and adoption of these Elements alone would not propose development or damage scenic resources. These policies and land use designation updates would be consistent with the existing General Plan polices. No impact would occur.
d) Would the project create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area?
No Impact. The proposed project would implement goals, policies, and land use designations to ensure consistency between all General Plan elements and State law . Updates and adoption of these Elements alone would not produce environmental impacts because the project does not propose actual development or construction. Future development projects would be consistent with General Plan polices and development code regulations to avoid new light sources or gl are, therefore, the proposed project would have no impact.
3.2 Agriculture and Forestry Resources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
II. AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY RESOURCES – In determining whether impacts to agricultural resources are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to the California Agricultural Land Evaluation and Site Assessment Model (1997) prepared by the California Department of Conservation as an optional model to use in assessing impacts on agriculture and farmland. In determining whether impacts to forest resources, including timberland, are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to information compiled by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection regarding the state’s inventory of forest land, including the Forest and Range Assessment Project and the Forest Legacy Assessment Project; and forest carbon measurement methodology provided in Forest Protocols adopted by the California Air Resources Board. Would the project:
a) 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?
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Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural
use, or a Williamson Act contract?
c) 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))?
d) Result in the loss of forest land or
conversion of forest land to non-forest use?
e) 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?
a) Would the project 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? b) Would the project conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract? c) Would the project 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))? d) Would the project result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use? e) Would the project 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?
No Impact. The City of Rialto contains some areas of Grazing Land, Prime Farmland, and Farmland of Statewide Importance (DOC 2023a) but does not contain lands under the Williamson Act Contract (DOC 2023b). The City of Rialto General Plan does not include land designated for agricultural uses or farmland, but it does contain a Historic Agriculture Overlay, which provides for the preservation of historic orchards, tree crops, and other similar historical agricultural enterprises . T he City does not contain forest land, timberland, or agriculture land use designations (City of Rialto 2010).
The proposed project would implement goals, policies, and land use designations to ensure consistency between all General Plan elements and State law . Updates and adoption of these Elem ents alone would not produce environmental impacts . The project does not propose actual development or construction.
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These policies and land use designation updates would be consistent with the Housing Element Update and the Residential Overlay Program that was previously approved by the City. Consistency with the land use element would ensure that future development would comply with land use designations and would not convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance to non-agricultural uses, or conflict with existing zoning for agriculture use , forest land, timberland , or a Williamson Act Contract. No impact would occur.
3.3 Air Quality
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
III. AIR QUALITY – Where available, the significance criteria established by the applicable air quality management district or air pollution control district may be relied upon to make the following determinations. Would the project:
a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of
the applicable air quality plan?
b) 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?
c) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial
pollutant concentrations?
d) Result in other emissions (such as those
leading to odors) adversely affecting a
substantial number of people?
a) Would the project conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan? b) Would the project 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? c) Would the project expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations? No Impact. The City lies within the South Coast Air Basin (SoCAB). The South Coast Air Quality Management District ( SCAQMD) and Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) are responsible for developing and implementing the clean air plans for attainment and maintenance of ambient air quality standards in the SoCAB, specifically for large areas of Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernadino counties. The SoCAB is classified as an “extreme” nonattainment area for the 2015 national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS). In December 2022, the SCAQMD adopted the 2022 Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP) to address the requirements for meeting this standard (South Coast AQMD 2023).
The Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update, and new Environmental Justice Element are policy documents and adoption of these Elements alone would not produce
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environmental impacts. The Land Use Element Update consists of an updated land use map with additional residential overlays to be consistent with the City's recently adopted 6th Cycle Housing Element and associated Residential Overlay Program which have been previously approved. The 6th Cycle Housing Element identified potential opportunities f or housing in the City to accommodate the City’s RHNA allocation, and the associated the Residential Overlay Program implemented a zoning overlay to facilitate these housing opportunities;. The Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update, and new Environmental Justice Element would not conflict with or obstruct implementation of the 2022 AQMP, because the growth anticipated in the Housing Element Update (RHNA allocation) is based on with SCAG’s growth projections for the City and region that were also factored into the Regional Air Quality Strategy.
The Safety Element is a policy document that establishes the City’s goals, policies and actions related to the natural and human -caused hazards and the risk to human life, property damage, and economic and social dislocation from hazard events within the City. The current Safety Element Update does not propose any policies or actions that would result in impacts to air quality. Additionally, the Circulation Element Update proposes an update to the Circulation Map recommended truck routes and would not result in impacts to air quality.
The Environmental Justice Element is a policy document that establishes the City’s goals, policies and actions related to public health risks and environmental justice concerns of those living in DACs. The Environmental Ju stice Element does not propose any policies or actions that would result in negative impacts to air quality. The policies and actions related to Goal 5, reduce air pollution impacts in DACs, are anticipated to improve the City’s air quality. Policies 9-5.1 through 9-5.8 propose measures to reduce air pollution such as connecting low-income households to programs that offer large financial incentives to provide low-emission vehicles, designating and enforcing truck routes, and applying conditions of approval for any industrial or warehouse use to minimize the public health impact of that use.
The proposed project would not violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation, nor would it result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is in nonattainment under an applicable Federal or State ambient air quality standard. Based on the above, the Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circ ulation Element Update, and new Environmental Justice Element would have no impact on air quality. d) Would the project result in other emissions (such as those leading to odors) adversely affecting a substantial number of people?
No Impact. The Land Use Element Update does not affect land uses that are typically associated with the creation of objectionable odors (such as rendering plants, landfills, treatment plants, etc.) . Its adoption would have no impact from odors. The proposed project consists of updates to the Land Use Element, Safety Element, Circulation Element, and a new Environmental Justice Element. The project does not propose actual development or construction. Therefore, no impact would occur.
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3.4 Biological Resources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
IV. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES – Would the project:
a) 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 California Department of Fish and
Wildlife or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any
riparian habitat or other sensitive natural
community identified in local or regional
plans, policies, regulations, or by the
California Department of Fish and Wildlife or
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
c) Have a substantial adverse effect on state
or federally protected wetlands (including,
but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool,
coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling,
hydrological interruption, or other means?
d) 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 native wildlife
nursery sites?
e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances
protecting biological resources, such as a
tree preservation policy or ordinance?
f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted
Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural
Community Conservation Plan, or other
approved local, regional, or state habitat
conservation plan?
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a) Would the project have a substantial adverse ef fect, 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 California Department of Fish and Wildlife or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? b) Would the project have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
c) Would the project have a substantial adverse effect on state or federally protected wetlands (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means?
d) Would the project 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 native wildlife nursery sites?
e) Would the project conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance?
f) Would the project 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. The proposed project consists of new and updated policies within the Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update, and new Environmental Justice Element .
Because the project is a programmatic policy document, no physical development is proposed as part of the update. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, produce environmental impacts.
The Land Use Element Update is focused on assuring consistency with the City’s recently adopted 6th Cycle Housing Element and associated Residential Overlay Program. Future residential development to meet the RHNA allocation established in the Housing Element is expected to be located on infill sites within urbanized areas that are currently developed with other uses or vacant, where little or no native vegetation exists and where little potential exists for the occurrence of sensitive species habitat, riparian habitat, a sensitive natural community, federally protected wetlands, or wildlife corridors or nursery sites . When specific development projects are proposed for a particular site, project-specific environmental assessment would occur prior to project approval and development.
The Safety Element Update contains policies related to Goal 5-3 that would maintain the urban forest to reduce the urban heat island affect. This goal and related policies, such as Policy 5-3.1: incentivizing cool roofs, Policy 5-3.2: developing an Urban Forest Management Plan that considers hazards , Policy 5-3.3:
prioritizing tree planning from the approved street tree list, Policy 5-3.4: updating the minimum landscape requirements for large commercial and residential developments , Policy 5-3.5: promoting green space networks, and Policy 5-3.6: increasing and maintaining the tree canopy. These policies would likely improve the overall habitat within the City.
Additionally, the Circulation Element Update and Environment Justice Element do not involve changes or impacts to biological resources. The Circulation Element Update involves revisions to the exis ting truck
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routes; the update does not propose new roads or construction. The Environmental Justice Element addresses public health risks and environmental justice concerns of those living in DACs.
The Land Use, Safety, Circulation, and Environmental Just ice Elements do not alter any local, regional, State, or Federal biological protection standards, nor would they alter the City’s existing general plan policies related to protection and preservation of sensitive biological resources . The updates do not encourage housing or development to be located in stream corridors, wetlands, riparian areas, or any other type of habitats for endangered or threatened species. Therefore, the project would have no impact on biological resources.
3.5 Cultural Resources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
V. CULTURAL RESOURCES – Would the project:
a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the
significance of a historical resource
pursuant to Section 15064.5?
b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the
significance of an archaeological resource
pursuant to Section 15064.5?
c) Disturb any human remains, including those
interred outside of formal cemeteries?
a) Would the project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource pursuant to Section 15064.5?
b) Would the project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to Section 15064.5?
c) Would the project disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries? No Impact. The proposed updates include existing Land Use, Safety, and Circulation Elements of the City’s General Plan, and the new Environmental Justice Element. No actual development is proposed as part of the update, therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, produce environmental impacts.
The City of Rialto General Plan contains policies for the protection of cultural and histo rical resources in Rialto. Policies 7 -1.1 through 7 -1.4 are aimed at preserving Rialto’s significant historical resources, and policies 7-3.1 through 7-3.4 aim to identify, document, and protect significant archeological resources in Rialto. Additionally, Chapter 2.20 (Historical Preservation Commission) of the Municipal Code focuses on the identification and preservation of historic resources. AB 52 requires early consultation with culturally affiliated tribes in the area. As future projects are planned an d developed, they must adhere to these
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General Plan policies, Municipal Code regulations, and AB 52 as it pertains to historical and culturally sensitive resources.
The Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update, and Environ mental Justice Element would not change or alter policies to protect and/or review cultural resources. No impact would occur.
3.6 Energy
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
VI. Energy – Would the project:
a) Result in potentially significant
environmental impact due to wasteful,
inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of
energy resources, during project
construction or operation?
b) Conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan
for renewable energy or energy efficiency?
a) Would the project result in potentially significant environmental impact due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy resources, during project construction or operation? b) Would the project conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency? No Impact . The Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update, and Environmental Justice Element are proposed updates to the General Plan. Adoption of the elements would not, in itself, produce environmental impacts. The Land Use Element Update is focused on assuring consistency with the City’s recently adopted 6th Cycle Housing Element and associated Residential Overlay Program. Future residential development would undergo project-specific CEQA review, which would evaluate potential project specific environmental impacts, and would be required to adhere to all state and/or local plans for renewable energy or energy efficiency.
The Safety Element Update includes polices aimed at reducing energy, such as policy 5-3.1, which encourages cool roofs for existing residential and existing/new commercial, industrial, institutional, and similar structures in the City. In addition, the General Plan includes measures to ensure that development in the City are in compliance with the latest energy efficiency standards, such as Measure 8.18: California Energy Standards, Measure 8.19: Green Building, and Measure 8.20 LEED or Similar Professi onal Accreditation. Based on the above, the proposed updates would not result in impacts to energy and no impact would occur.
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3.7 Geology and Soils
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
VII. GEOLOGY AND SOILS – Would the project:
a) Directly or indirectly cause potential
substantial adverse effects, including the
risk of loss, injury, or death involving:
i) 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? Refer to
Division of Mines and Geology Special
Publication 42.
ii) Strong seismic ground shaking?
iii) Seismic-related ground failure, including
liquefaction?
iv) Landslides?
b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss
of topsoil?
c) 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?
d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in
Table 18-1-B of the Uniform Building Code
(1994), creating substantial direct or
indirect risks to life or property?
e) Have soils incapable of adequately
supporting the use of septic tanks or
alternative waste water disposal systems
where sewers are not available for the
disposal of waste water?
f) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique
paleontological resource or site or unique
geologic feature?
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a) Would the project directly or indirectly cause potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving:
i) 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? Refer to Division of Mines and Geology Special Publication 42. ii) Strong seismic ground shaking?
iii) Seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction? iv) Landslides?
No Impact. The Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update, and new Environmental Justice Element are policy documents; no actual dev elopment is proposed as part of the update. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, produce environmental impacts. Future development would comply with the goals and policies in the General Plan to minimize environmental impacts.
The City of Rialto contains gently sloping lands in the south and the San Gabriel Mountains in the north, which is a result of tectonic movement of the San Andreas Fault and its subsidiary faults. Alquist -Priolo Fault Zones are present to the north of the City, along Lytle Creek Wash. Proximity to these fault zones and poorly consolidated alluvium underlying the City has the potential to create risk in the event of an earthquake (City of Rialto 2010). In addition, liquefaction is unlikely to occur in most portions of Rialto.
Liquefaction could be a concern in the Lytle Creek Wash area where there are sand soils and a high water table, and in the areas near the Santa Ana River due to an extremely high water table (City of Rialto n.d).
The Land Use Element Update contains land use designation updates consistent with the Housing Element Update and the Residential Overlay Program that was previously approved by the City. Future residential development consistent with the Residential Overlay Program would not cause an increase the liquefaction potential.
The Safety Element Update contains goals and policies that would mitigate the potential effects to geology and soils. Goal 5-5 of the Safety Element Update is to minimize impacts to public health, safety, and welfare as a result of seismic and geologic hazards. Policy 5-5.3, Renovations, requires seismic retrofits for major renovations in accordance with Historic and Building Code provisions. Additionally, when supporting revitalization or rehabilitation of substandard housing, requi re seismic retrofits as needed, such as for unreinforced masonry buildings.
Additionally, the potential for significant adverse impacts to result from these phenomena would be substantially reduced through adherence to requirements specified in the Alquis t– Priolo Act, Title 24 of the California Building Code and all development regulations of the City. Compliance with these building standards would minimize impacts associated with seismic hazards.
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However, adoption of these updates would not, in itself, produce environmental impacts. Future development would comply with the goals and policies in the General Plan to minimize environmental impacts. No impact as a result of the approval of the General Plan updates would occur. b) Would the project result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? No Impact. The Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update, and new Environmental Justice Element are policy documents; no actual development is proposed as part of th e update. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, produce environmental impacts. Future development would comply with the goals and policies in the General Plan to minimize environmental impacts.
According to the General Plan, the City of Rialto has a history of extensive windstorms, that can cause damage to soils susceptible to wind erosion (City of Rialto 2010). Goal 14 of the Safety Element Update is to minimize the risks associated with wind hazards. This includes Policy 14.1: Notify all developer s, particularly those of multi-story or critical structures, of potential impacts resulting from Santa Ana Winds, and require appropriate structural and design treatment . This Safety Element Update policy aims to minimize environmental damage from wind.
The project involves policy and element updates; no actual development is proposed as part of the project.
However, future development would undergo project specific CEQA review and would comply with the General Plan and proposed elements to minimize any environmental impacts. No impact would occur as a result of the proposed project.
c) Would the project 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?
d) Would the project be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18 -1-B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial direct or indirect risks to life or property? e) Would the project have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative waste water disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of waste water? No Impact. The Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update, and new Environmental Justice Element are policy documents; no actual development is proposed as part of the update. Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, produce environmental impacts.
The General Plan contains police s and measures to address geologic hazards. Measure 8.77: Geologic Hazards Assessment requires applicants to prepare site-specific geologic and/or geotechnical studies and soil investigations for proposed new development projects located in areas with expa nsive soils, or areas identified as susceptible to landslides and liquefaction. In addition, a ny future development would be subject to project specific CEQA review, which would evaluate potential project specific environmental impacts relative to their location. Future development would comply with the goals and policies in the General Plan to minimize environmental impacts. As such, the proposed general plan updates would not change or alter policies to protect and/or review geology and soils. No impact would occur.
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f) Would the project directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature?
No Impact. Depending on the location, future development in th e City has the potential to directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature. The Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update, and new Environmental Justice Element would not change or alter these policies regarding paleontological resources . No actual development is proposed as part of the update, therefore, implementation of the updates would have no impact on paleontological resources.
3.8 Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
VIII. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS – Would the project:
a) Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either
directly or indirectly, that may have a
significant impact on the environment?
b) Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or
regulation adopted for the purpose of
reducing the emissions of greenhouse
gases?
b) Would the project generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the environment? No Impact. The proposed project establishes goals, policies, and land use designations to ensure consistency between all General Plan elements and State law . The Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update, and new Environmental Justice Element are policy documents and adoption of these Elements alone would not generate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
The Circulation Element Update consists of revisions to the Circulation map, including the removal and addition of recommended truck routes. No additional tru cks or traffic is proposed with the update.
Implementation of the update would not change greenhouse gas emissions.
The Land Use Element Update consists of changes in the form of data and mapping clean up to ensure that the updated land use element will be consistent with recently approved amendments to the General Plan.
These changes are administrative in nature and would consist of land use revisions that were previously approved. The Land Use Element Update includes additional Residential Overlay designa tions to be consistent with the City’s recently adopted 6 th Cycle Housing Element and associated Residential Overlay Program. The update does not propose development; therefore, implementation of the update would not generate greenhouse gas emissions.
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The Environmental Justice Element includes goals and policies promoting pedestrian and bicycle routes that could indirectly reduce the use of vehicles and greenhouse gas emissions emitted. The Safety Element Update does not contain polices impacting greenhouse gas emissions.
As such, the project does not include physical construction or changes that would result in the generation of greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, no impacts to greenhouse gas emissions would occur. b) Would the project generate conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases?
No Impact. The City of Rialto adopted the Climate Adaptation Plan on September 28, 2021. The Climate Adaptation Plan lays the groundwork to help prepare the City of Rialto and its residents for the expected impacts of climate change, as required by State law. It builds on the General Plan Safety Element and Local Hazard Mitigation Plan to propose policies around climate related hazards (City of Rialto 2021). The proposed element updates would not change or alter policies relating to greenhouse gas emissions, therefore, no impact would occur.
3.9 Hazards and Hazardous Materials
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
IX. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS – Would the project:
a) Create a significant hazard to the public or
the environment through the routine
transport, use, or disposal of hazardous
materials?
b) 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?
c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle
hazardous or acutely hazardous materials,
substances, or waste within one-quarter
mile of an existing or proposed school?
d) Be located on a site that 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?
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Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
e) 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?
f) Impair implementation of or physically
interfere with an adopted emergency
response plan or emergency evacuation
plan?
g) Expose people or structures, either directly
or indirectly, to a significant risk of loss,
injury or death involving wildland fires?
a) Would the project create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials?
b) Would the project create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable u pset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment?
No Impact. The Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update, and new Environmental Justice Element are policy documents and adopti on of these Elements alone would no t result in potential impacts from hazards and hazardous material that may endanger residents or the environment. The proposed project does not propose actual development or construction.
The Safety Element is a policy d ocument that establishes the City’s goals, policies and actions related to the natural and human -caused hazards and the risk to human life, property damage, and economic and social dislocation from hazard events within the City. Goal 4 of the Safety Element, minimize generation of hazardous waste and ensure safe and responsible management by hazardous waste facilities and households alike , contains policies that would likely reduce the risks of hazards to the public or the environment.
The new Environmental Justice Element addresses public health risks and environmental justice concerns of those living in DACs. Goal 9-6 of the element is to proactively address hazardous waste and water pollution concerns where possible, and aggressively pursue actions that correct spills and contamination when it occurs. This goal includes policies to reduce hazardous wastes, including Policy 9-6.6: Create a hub on the City website for household hazardous waste educational resources and information on safe disposal options; Policy 9-6.7: Provide public education to encourage local consumers to choose the cleanest paints and other non-pollutant consumer products (also referenced as Land Use, Community Design, Open Space, and Conservation Element Policy 2-38.3 in the General Plan); Policy 9-6.8: Reduce spreading of high nitrate
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fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, and other chemicals in City landscaping that can contaminate groundwater; encourage the public to reduce the use of chemicals in maintenance of landscapin g (also referenced as Land Use, Community Design, Open Space, and Conservation Element Policy 2 -29.8 in the General Plan); Policy 9-6.9: Focus the establishment of new industries using, manufacturing, transporting, or storing hazardous or toxic materials o r wastes within the Agua Mansa Industrial Corridor Area ( also referenced as Land Use, Community Design, Open Space, and Conservation Element Policy 2 -9.3 in the General Plan); and Policy 9-6.10: Work with the County of San Bernardino to limit expansion of the sanitary landfills on Bohnert Avenue ( also referenced as Land Use, Community Design, Open Space, and Conservation Element Policy 2-9.4 in the General Plan).
Based on the above, implementation of these elements would also not result in the routine use, transport, or disposal of hazardous materials or generate significant quantities of hazardous materials. No impact would occur.
c) Would the project emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? No Impact. As described above, the Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update, and new Environmental Justice Element are policy documents and adoption of these Elements alone would not result in potential impacts from hazards and hazardous material that may endanger residents or the environment . Rialto Unified School District governs the schools in the City, including 3 comprehensive high schools, one alternative/adult educa tion school, one continuation high school, 5 middle schools, 19 elementary schools and 20 preschools (RUSD 2023). Future development would be subject to project specific CEQA review, which would evaluate potential project specific environmental impacts relative to their location. As such, the proposed project does not propose actual development or construction and implementation of these elements and would not emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste. No impact would occur. d) Would the project be located on a site that 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?
No Impact. The proposed project includes goals, policies, and land use designations to ensure consistency between all General Plan elements and State law. The proposed project does not propose actual development or construction. In addition, any future development would be subject to project specific CEQA review, which would evaluate potential project specific environmental impacts relative to their location. The sites of proposed future residential projects will be evaluated using appropriate databases including the California Department of Toxic Substances Control EnviroStor database that, pursuant to Government Code section 65962.5, lists Federal Superfund, State Response, Voluntary Cleanup, School Cleanup, Hazardous Waste Permit, and Hazardous Waste Corrective Action sites. The potential impacts related to any listed hazardous materials sites associated with any specific future residential projects will be assessed at the time the projects are proposed. Mitigation measures would then be adopted as necessary, in conformance with CEQA. No impact would occur as a result of the project.
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e) 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 air port, would the project result in a safety hazard or excessive noise for people residing or working in the project area? No Impact. Several municipal and regional airports are located near the City of Rialto, including Los Angeles World Airport’s (LAWA) LA/Ontario International Airport, located approximately 12 miles to the west of Rialto, and San Bernadino International Airport, located approximately eight miles east of Rialto (City of Rialto 2010).
The proposed elements would be consistent with the General Plan and its policies regarding airport land use. The proposed project does not propose actual development or construction; any future development would be subject to project specific CEQA review, which would evaluate potential project specific environmental impacts relative to their location. No impact would occur. f) Would the project impair implementation of or physically interf ere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan?
No Impact. The proposed project includes updates to the existing Land Use, Safety, and Circulation Elements of the City’s General Plan, and the new Environmental Justice Element. The project does not propose actual development or construction.
The City of Rialto’s Standard Emergency Management System (SEMS) Multi-Hazard Function Plan (MHFP) outlines the City’s emergency response procedures, including evacuation types, evacuation routes, and location of evacuation centers (City of Rialto 2010). Additionally, the City of Rialto’s Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) addresses the City's planned res ponse to emergencies associated with natural disasters and technological incidents (City of Rialto n.d.). The proposed Safety Element Update contains policies and goals that support the adopted emergency operations plan and emergency response procedures, including Policy 5-6.6: Continue to study and monitor the conditions of existing evacuation routes to incorporate a range of emergency scenarios including differences in hazard types, locations, and timing. Consider collaboration with neighboring jurisdictions for hazard scenarios that may cause regional evacuation; Policy 5-6.7: When possible and deemed necessary, or during regular road maintenance, upgrade existing roads to meet California Fire Safe Regulations minimum road widths, surface, grade, radius, and turnarounds to ensure emergency vehicle access is possible. To ensure vegetation allows for continued emergency vehicle access, perform maintenance on city roads and enforcement on private roads; Goal 5-8, ensure that first responders and the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) have adequate capacity to respond to hazard events; and Goal 5-9: Include provisions for vulnerable populations in emergency response procedures and recovery efforts. As such, the proposed project supports the City’s adopted Emergency Operations Plan and would not impair or interfere with it. Therefore, no impact would occur. g) Would the project expose people or structures, either directly or indirectly, to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires?
No Impact. The City of Rialto contains areas of moderate to very high Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ) to the north of the City, around Lytle Creek Wash (CAL FIRE 2023). The proposed project includes updates to the existing Land Use, Safety, and Circulation Elements of the City’s General Plan, and the new Environmental Justice Element. The project does not propose actual development or construction.
However, the Land Use Element Update contains land use designation updates consistent with the Housing
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Element Update and the Residential Overlay Program that was previously approved by the City. Future residential development consistent with the Residential Overlay Program would be concentrated within already developed areas of the City and would not be within any moderate to very high FHSZs. Additionally, the Safety Element Update contains goals and polices that would reduce future development’s impacts to wildland fires, such as Goal 1: Continue to build the City’s fire protection and prevention progr ams and requirements to minimize fire hazards . New policies in the Safety Element Update include: Policy 5-1.1:
Landscape plans in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone shall be reviewed and accepted by the Fire Department prior to installation. Landscap e architects must submit each plan species on the landscape plan and indicate its fire resistive and drought tolerant characteristics .; Policy 5-1.2: Continue to enforce strict vegetation management requirements as stated in City Ordinance, the California Fire Code Chapter 49, and the Public Resources Code 4290 and 4291. Develop a method to track problem areas including repeat offenders or areas with special risks to the surrounding community, such as critical assets or permitted hazardous material users. E nsure ongoing vegetation management for City -maintained open space areas, future fire breaks, or other potential city -led fire hazard reduction projects ; Policy 5-1.3:
Require that all site plans, subdivision plans, and building plans be reviewed by the Fi re Department to ensure compliance with appropriate fire regulations, such as California Fire Safe Regulations; Policy 5-1.4:
Promote and incentivize development to occur outside of Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones.
Development in the City’s Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones shall meet the most recent version of the California Fire Code and California Building Code. A Fire Protection Plan that describes ways to minimize and mitigate potential for loss from wildfire exposure, including project specific fuel modification methods and maintenance that achieve compliance with City of Rialto and state requirements for defensible space, shall be required. If the development involves roadway development, enforce the most recent version of the California Fire Code as adopted by the State of California and the City of Rialto as it relates to roadway design, street addressing, and signage. If the development has only one point of access consider the potential for additional access points; Policy 5-1.5: Ensure that a defensible perimeter is maintained around residential located in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, as per California Fire Code. Provide homeowners with assistance or resources as possible. Resources to consider include development of a list of local home maintenance companies, the development of a volunteer vegetation maintenance program, or the pursuit of grants for low -income homeowners; Policy 5-1.6: Require new developments in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones have adequate fire flow as defin ed by the most recent California Fire Code ; and Policy 5-
1.7: Develop a Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP). Prior to development, contact neighboring jurisdictions and regional agencies to pursue multi -jurisdictional partnerships that improve the effectiveness of programs and share costs.
Future development would be subject to project specific CEQA review, which would evaluate potential project specific environmental impacts, and would comply with the General Plan polices to reduce impacts to wildland fires. No impact would occur as a result of the General Plan updates.
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3.10 Hydrology and Water Quality
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
X. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY – Would the project:
a) Violate any water quality standards or waste
discharge requirements or otherwise
substantially degrade surface or ground
water quality?
b) Substantially decrease groundwater
supplies or interfere substantially with
groundwater recharge such that the project
may impede sustainable groundwater
management of the basin?
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:
i) result in substantial erosion or siltation
on- or off-site;
ii) substantially increase the rate or
amount of surface runoff in a manner
which would result in flooding on-
or offsite;
iii) create or contribute runoff water which
would exceed the capacity of existing or
planned stormwater drainage systems
or provide substantial additional
sources of polluted runoff; or
iv) impede or redirect flood flows?
d) In flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche zones,
risk release of pollutants due to project
inundation?
e) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of
a water quality control plan or sustainable
groundwater management plan?
a) Would the project violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements or otherwise substantially degrade surface or ground water quality?
No Impact. The proposed project establishes goals, policies, and land use designations to ensure consistency between all General Plan elements and State law . The Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update, and new Environmental Justice Element are policy documents and adoption of these Elements alone would not impact water quality . Compliance with the
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goals and polices in the Safety Element Update would minimize environmental effects related to future development. Goal 5-2 in the Safety Element Update is to c reate a m ore flood-safe community through development standards and infrastructure improvements . Policy 5-2.2 is to d evelop a green streets program to support a sustainable approach to stormwater, drainage, groundwater recharge, and landscaping and incorporate green streets standards and guidelines in all streetscape improvements.
The Environmental Justice Element includes goals and policies to reduce water pollution. Policy 9-6.1 is to pursue all appropriate methods, including litigation, site monitoring, and follo w-up mediation implementation so that all responsible parties compensate for the cleanup of perchlorate contamination.
Aggressively pursue all funding sources available to employ the latest technology in water cleanup. Policy 9-6.2 is to shut down any drin king water wells that have perchlorate contamination, and install wellhead treatments to reduce perchlorate to non -detection levels (also referenced as Economic Development, Redevelopment, and Infrastructure Element Policy 3 -8.3 in the General Plan). Policy 9-6.3 is to advocate regular evaluation of the entire water supply and distribution system to ensure its continued adequacy, reliability, and safety (also referenced as Economic Development, Redevelopment, and Infrastructure Element Policy 3-8.4 in the General Plan). Policy 9-6.4 is to apply methodologies and assign responsibility to protect the quality of groundwater from pollution by landfills and industrial uses (also referenced as Land Use, Community Design, Open Space, and Conservation Element Policy 2-29.5 in the General Plan). Policy 9-6.5 is to r educe future groundwater pollution by implementing green street strategies to support a sustainable approach to stormwater, drainage, groundwater recharge, landscaping, and incorporating green streets standard and guidelines in all right-of-way and streetscape improvements where feasible.
Additionally, all demolition, relocation and/or construction phases of future housing development would be subject to compliance with applicable local, regional, state and federal regulations designed to protect water resources, including those regulations requiring implementation of Best Management Practices (BMPs), preparation of Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPPs), and submittal of Erosion Control Plans in compliance with National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) provisions. Consistency with this regulatory framework would adequately ensure that no impacts would occur. b) Would the project substantially decrease groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that the project may impede sustainable groundwater management of the basin? No Impact. The updates to the General Plan Element establish goals, policies, and land use designations; adoption of these Elements alone would not produce environmental impacts or propose development. The proposed project does not approve or facilitate any specific development, nor does it grant development entitlements. The Safety Element Update, Environmental Justice Element, and Circulation Element Update would not introduce new development or uses in the city that would result in impacts to groundwater supplies. The Land Use Update includes updates to the land use map to be consistent with the 6th Cycle Housing Element and Residential Overlay Program. Future development could potentially increase the City’s impervious surface area (ISA) , however, implementation of the Element update does not approve or propose development. Future development would be subject to project specific CEQA review, which would evaluate potential project specific environmental impacts, compliance with applicable regulation, and potential mitigation measures. With the proper implementation of stormwater BMPs, the impact of potential future projects on groundwater resources would be minimized. The project would not decrease groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge and no impact would occur.
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c) Would the project 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:
i) Result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-site? ii) Substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or offsite?
iii) Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff? iv) Impede or redirect flood flows?
No Impact. The Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update, and new Environmental Justice Element are policy documents and adoption of these Elements alone would not alter drainage patterns. Individual developments would be subject to project specific CEQA review, which would evaluate potential impacts related to hydrology. Goal 5-2 of the Safety Element Update is to create a more flood-safe community through development standards and infrastructure improvements . New policies include Policy 5-2.1: Conduct a mud and debris flow study to determine best sizing and mitigation for culverts immediately downstream from fire hazard severity zones and in the 100- and 500-year flood plain to accommodate wildfire. Prioritize resizing and mitigation for any known culverts that require increased debris cleaning during the rainy season ; Policy 5-2.2: Develop a green streets program to support a sustainable approach to stormwater, drainage, groundwater recharge, and landscaping and incorporate green streets standards and guidelines in all streetscape improvements ; and Policy 5-2.6: Design new developments with water retention devices and permeable surfaces to minimize flooding of the surface drainage system by peak flows. Consult with water agencies and the San Bernardino County Flood Control District to consider the potential for larger-scale capture via diversion to large-scale spreading grounds or other options on a site-by-site basis. These policies would reduce any impacts to drainage or flooding that could result from future development. No impact as a result of the General Plan updates would occur. d) In flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche zones, would the project risk release of pollutants due to project inundation?
No Impact. The City contains areas outside 500 -year flood pain or areas where flood hazards are undetermined. Outside of the Rialto incorporated area, surrounding Lytle Creek Wash, are areas of 100- year floodplain (City of Rialto 2010). There are no areas of tsunami or seiche zones in the City of Rialto.
The Land Use Element Update contains residential overlay land use designation updates consistent with the Housing Element Update and the Residential Overlay Program that was previously approved by the City.
Residential overlay designations would be situated in the developed area of the City, away from fire hazardous areas near Lytle Creek Area. Additionally, future development would be subject to project specific CEQA review, which would evaluate potential project specific environmental impacts, and would comply with the General Plan polices to reduce risks.
The Safety Element Update contains goals and policies designed to reduce floodin g hazards in the City.
Goal 5-2 of the Safety Element Update is to Create a more flood -safe community through development
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standards and infrastructure improvements. New polices in the update include Policy 5-2.1: Conduct a mud and debris flow study to dete rmine best sizing and mitigation for culverts immediately downstream from fire hazard severity zones and in the 100- and 500-year flood plain to accommodate wildfire flows. Prioritize resizing and mitigation for any known culverts that require increased de bris cleaning during the rainy season; Policy 5-2.2: Develop a green streets program to support a sustainable approach to stormwater, drainage, groundwater recharge, and landscaping and incorporate green streets standards and guidelines in all streetscape improvements; and Policy 5-2.6: Design new developments with water retention devices and permeable surfaces to minimize flooding of the surface drainage system by peak flows. Consult with water agencies and the San Bernardino County Flood Control District to consider the potential for larger - scale capture via diversion to large-scale spreading grounds or other options on a site-by-site basis.
The Environmental Justice Element and Circulation Element do not contain updates relating to hydrology or flooding. The policies included in the proposed Safety Element Update improve flooding and drainage, therefore minimizing the risks of future development. Implementation of the element updates would not risk release of pollutants due to project inundation; no impact would occur. e) Would the project conflict with or obstruct implementation of a water quality control plan or sustainable groundwater management plan?
No Impact. The City of Rialto General Plan contains measures to improve and protect water quality, such as Measure 8.17: National Pollutant Discharge and Elimination System (NPDES) Compliance, and Measure
8.37: Monitor Water Quality and Perchlorate Contamination (City of Rialto 2010). Additionally, as described in the thresholds above, the Safety Element Update contains polices associated with Goal 2 that minimize flooding damage. The Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update, and new Environmental Justice Element are policy documents and adoption of these Elements would not conflict with or obstruct any plans regarding water quality. No impact would occur.
3.11 Land Use and Planning
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
XI. LAND USE AND PLANNING – Would the project:
a) Physically divide an established
community?
b) Cause a 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?
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a) Would the project physically divide an established community? No Impact. The General Plan’s Land Use Element describes the general location, type, and intensity of development, and designates the distribution of land uses throughout Rialto. Land uses such as residential, commercial, industrial, open space, and public uses are p lanned to meet the needs of residents, support the local economy, achieve the City’s fiscal goals, and create an environment that fosters a high quality of life in the City of Rialto. The proposed Land Use Element Update is consistent with the adopted 6 th Cycle Housing Element and associated Residential Overlay Program. The proposed project updates do not approve or facilitate any specific development. Furthermore, individual developments would be subject to project specific CEQA review, which would evaluate potential impacts related to land use and planning. The Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update, and new Environmental Justice Element are policy documents and adoption of these Elements would not physically divide an established community. No impact would occur.
b) Would the project cause a 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. The Safety Element Update includes goals, policies, and implementation actions to minimize risks from the effects of natural and non -natural hazards, none of which conflict with any land use plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of av oiding or mitigating an environmental effect. The Land Use Element Update is focused on ensuring that the updated land use element will be consistent with recently approved amendments to the General Plan. The Environmental Justice Element addresses public health risks and environmental justice concerns of those living in DACs and would not conflict with land uses. The Circulation Element Update proposes an update to the Circulation Map; no other components of the Circulation Element are being updated or revised. These General Plan updates would have no conflict with any land use plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect. No impact would occur.
3.12 Mineral Resources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
XII. MINERAL RESOURCES – Would the project:
a) Result in the loss of availability of a known
mineral resource that would be of value to
the region and the residents of the state?
b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally
important mineral resource recovery site
delineated on a local general plan, specific
plan or other land use plan?
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a) Would the project result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state?
b) Would the project result in the loss of availability of a locally important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan or other land use plan? No Impact. The City of Rialto contains areas where geologic data indicates that significant PCC -grade aggregate resources are present (MRZ -2), and areas designated by the State Mining and Geology Board (1987) as containing regional significant PCC -grade aggregated resources (City of Rialto 2010). The proposed project includes updates to the existing Land Use, Safety, and Circulation Elements of the City’s General Plan, and the new Environmental Justice Element. The project does not propose actual development or construction. The Land Use Element Update contains land use designatio n updates consistent with the Housing Eleme nt Update and the Residential Overlay Program that was previously approved by the City. Any future residential development consistent with the updated Land Use Element would be subject to project specific CEQA rev iew, which would evaluate potential project specific environmental impacts relative to their location. No impact to mineral resources would occur as a result of the proposed elements.
3.13 Noise
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
XIII. NOISE – Would the project result in:
a) Generation of 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 applicable
standards of other agencies?
b) Generation of excessive groundborne
vibration or groundborne noise levels?
c) For a project 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 public use airport, would the project
expose people residing or working in the
project area to excessive noise levels?
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a) Would the project result in generation of 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 applicable standards of other agencies?
b) Would the project result in generation of excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels? No Impact. Goal 12 of the Safety Element , and the polices relating to it, minimize the impact of point source and ambient noise levels throughout the community. Goal 13 of the Safety Element, and its related polices, minimize the impacts of traffic related noise. The Safety Element Update does not contain goals or policies related to noise, nor would it impact the existing goals or polices relating to noise.
The Land Use Element Update contains land use designation updates that would be consistent with the Housing Element Update and the Residential Overlay Program that was previously approved by the City. No actual development or construction is proposed as part of the updates.
The Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update, and new Environmental Justice Element are policy documents and adoption of these Elemen ts alone would not generate noise impacts. Furthermore, project specific CEQA analysis would be required for all future development to evaluate potential noise and vibration impacts and mitigation, if applicable. No impacts associated with noise or vibration would occur.
c) For a project 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 public use airport, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? No Impact. As discussed in Section 3.9(e), there are several municipal and regional airports located near the City of Rialto, including Ontario International Airport, located approximately 12 miles to the west of Rialto, and San Bernadino International Airport, located approximately eight miles east of Rialto (City of Rialto 2010). However, the proposed elements would be consistent with the General Plan and its policies regarding airport land use. T he proposed project does not propose actual development or construction generating excessive noise levels; any future development would be subject to project specific CEQA review, which would evaluate potential project specific environmental impacts relative to their location. No impact would occur.
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3.14 Population and Housing
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
XIV. POPULATION AND HOUSING – Would the project:
a) Induce substantial unplanned population
growth in an area, either directly (for
example, by proposing new homes and
businesses) or indirectly (for example,
through extension of roads or other
infrastructure)?
b) Displace substantial numbers of
existing people or housing, necessitating
the construction of replacement
housing elsewhere?
a) Would the project induce substantial unplanned population growth in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of roads or other infrastructure)?
b) Would the project displ ace substantial numbers of existing people or housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere?
Less than Significant Impact. The 2021-2029 (Sixth Cycle) General Plan Housing Element was adopted on March 8, 2022. Consistent with State law, the updated Housing Element demonstrates the City’s ability to accommodate the City’s required Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) through existing parcels and through a rezoning program. According to the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), Rialto’s population has grown and is projected to increase 7.6 percent between 2020 and 2040 . The Housing Plan describes the specific housing-related goals, policies and programs the City will undertake in order to provide additional housing opportunities, remove governmental constraints to affordable housing, improve the condition of existing housing, and provide equal housing opportunities (6 th Cycle Housing Element).
The Land Use Element Update is focused on assuring consistency with the City’s recently adopted 6th Cycle Housing Element and associated Residential Overlay Program. Additional proposed residential overlay designations in the Land Use Element Update would reflect the growing population and housing needs, specified in the approved Housing Element. The Land Use Element Update would not approve or propose housing; it would ensure that the updated land use element will be consistent with recently ap proved amendments to the General Plan. These changes are administrative in nature and would consist of land use revisions that were previously approved. Future residential development would undergo project specific CEQA review, which would evaluate potential project specific environmental impacts related to population and housing.
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The Environmental Justice Element includes Goal 9-13: Promote improvements and rehabilitation of unsafe housing in DACs, while actively preventing displacement; and Goal 9-14: Fair housing options for all. These goal and the related polices aim to address housing concerns of those living in DACs. However, implementation of the related polices does not approve or propose development. Additionally, the Safety Element Update and Circulation Element Update do not contain policies or changes associated with population and housing, and no impact would occur. Implementation of the Land Use Element Update would result in administrative and policy -level changes and would not result in physi cal development.
Impacts to population and housing would be less than significant.
3.15 Public Services
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
XV. PUBLIC SERVICES – Would the project:
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 public services:
Fire protection?
Police protection?
Schools?
Parks?
Other public facilities?
a) Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically alt ered 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 public services:
Fire protection?
Police protection?
Schools?
Parks?
Other public facilities?
No Impact. Fire protection for the City is provided by Rialto Fire Department. Police protection for the City is provided by the Rialto Police Department. Rialto Unified School District governs the schools in the City.
The Rialto park system consists of various neighborhood parks, community parks, and mini-parks of varying
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sizes to meet the needs of residents . Other public facilities within the City include the Rialto Civic Center, Rialto Cemetery, Rialto Community Center, and Rialto Branch Library (City of Rialto 2010).
The proposed project consists of the Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update, and new Environmental Justice Element; no actual development is proposed as part of the update.
Therefore, its adoption would not, in itself, produce environmental impacts. The Land Use Element Update contains an updated land use map and will reflect the new Residential Overlay Program, adopted July 25, 2023. Future residential development would undergo project specific CEQA review, which would evaluate potential project specific environmental impacts related to public services.
Additionally, the Safety Element contains goals and policies supporting the City’s public services, including Goal 5-10: provide effective , timely, and comprehensive policing services that meet the safety needs of Rialto. The policies corresponding to this goal include: Policy 5-10.1: Provide timely responses to emergency and nonemergency call for service 24 hours a day, per the City standards; Policy 5-10.2: Establish the satellite Police Department in the northwest neighborhood; Policy 5-10.3: Continue to encourage design concepts that inhibit and discourage criminal behavior, such as Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) techniques; and Policy 5-10.4: Initiate proactive crime suppression and prevention strategies throughout the community. The Safety Element Update does not contain new policies regarding public services. The Circulation Element consists of revisions to the existing recommended truck routes; no impact to public services would occur.
The Environmental Justice Element contains policies promoting Rialto’s public services, such as Goal 9-7:
Prioritize urban greening in areas with limited parks and high pollution exposure. Policy 9-7.1, also referenced as Land Use, Community Design, Open Space, and Conservation Element Policy 2 -28.1 in the General Plan, is to establish a Master Plan for Parks and Recreation that achieves a park ratio of 3.0 acres per 1,000 residents, evenly distributes park facilities throughout the community, and contains strategies for funding facilities and maintenance. Policy 9-7.4, also referenced as Land Use, Community Design, Open Space, and Conservation Element Policy 2 -27.3 in the General Plan, is to i dentify locations, community partners, and funding opportunities to create pocket parks within urbanized areas for public and/or private use). Policy 9-7.5, also referenced as Land Use, Community Design, Open Space, and Conservation Element Policy 2-28.2 in the General Plan, is to plan for and designate adequate funding to maintain new and existing parks and fa cilities. Policy 9-7.6 is to work with the Rialto Unified School District to further discussions on potential joint-use outdoor facilities in areas where parks are not within walking or biking distance of residential areas. These polices prioritize Rialto’ s public services to mitigate potential environmental effects. Additionally, Goal 9-9 of the Environmental Justice Element is to expand access and foster a welcoming environment for all at public facilities and events in Rialto.
Based on the above, the proposed updates would result in administrative and policy -level changes and would not result in physical development. Increased densities involved with future development could result in a need for additional public services, however, any future development impacting public services would be subject to CEQA review and would comply with the General Plan polices regarding the City’s Public Services. Furthermore, the land use designation and zoning changes which facilitate increased densities have been analyz ed as part of Residential Overlay Program and associated CEQA document, as this program provided a zoning overlay to facilitate the development of residential uses in the specific areas.
Adoption and implementation of the proposed updates would not result in any physical environmental changes and no impacts related to the provision of new or altered governmental facilities would occur.
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3.16 Recreation
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
XVI. RECREATION
a) Would the project 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?
b) Does the project include recreational
facilities or require the construction or
expansion of recreational facilities which
might have an adverse physical effect on
the environment?
a) Would the project 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? No Impact. The Land Use Element Update contains an updated land use map with residential overlay designations to be consistent with the approved 6 th Cycle Housing Element and associated Residential Overlay Program; the update would not approve or propose housing. Future residential development could increase recreational uses; however, the Land Use Update changes are administrative in nature, and would not, in itself, result in an increase in recreational facility uses. F uture residential development would undergo project specific CEQA review, which would evaluate potential project specific environmental impacts. The Safety Element Update includes goals, policies, and implementation actions to minimize risks from the effects of natural and non-natural hazards, none of which would increase the use of recreational facilities. The Circulation Element Update proposes an update to the Circulation Map; no other components of the Circulation Element are proposed to be updated or revised.
The Environmental Justice Element addresses public health risks and environmental justice concerns of those living in DACs and would not increase the use of recreational facili ties. The Environmental Justice Element supports existing neighborhood and regional parks through Goal 9-7: Prioritize urban greening in areas with limited parks and high pollution exposure. Policy 9-7.1, also referenced in the General Plan as Land Use, Co mmunity Design, Open Space, and Conservation Element Policy 2 -28.1, is to establish a Master Plan for Parks and Recreation that achieves a park ratio of 3.0 acres per 1,000 residents, evenly distributes park facilities throughout the community, and contain s strategies for funding facilities and maintenance.
The implementation of the proposed project would result in administrative and policy -level changes, and would not result in physical development, therefore, no impact would occur.
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b) Does the project i nclude recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities, which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment? No Impact. As described above, t he proposed project establishes goals, policies, and land use designations to ensure consistency between all General Plan elements and State law . The Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update, and new Environmental Justice Element are policy documents and adoption of these Elements alone do not include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational activities. The Environmental Justice Element includes goals and policies to support recreational activities in the City. Policy 9-11.2 is to evalu ate recreational and park programs, facilities , and services to ensure they meet evolving community needs.
Programs and services should remain accessible and relevant to today’s residents, responding to unique cultural, historic, and social needs, as well as changing demographics and income levels. This policy has a positive impact on the needs of public facilities. Therefore, no impact would occur.
3.17 Transportation
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
XVII. TRANSPORTATION – Would the project:
a) Conflict with a program, plan, ordinance, or
policy addressing the circulation system,
including transit, roadway, bicycle, and
pedestrian facilities?
b) Conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA
Guidelines Section 15064.3, subdivision (b)?
c) Substantially increase hazards due to a
geometric design feature (e.g., sharp curves
or dangerous intersections) or incompatible
uses (e.g., farm equipment)?
d) Result in inadequate emergency access?
a) Would the project conflict with a program, plan, ordinance, or policy addressing the circulation system, including transit, roadway, bicycle and pedestrian facilities? b) Would the project conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3, subdivision (b)? c) Would the project substantially increase hazards due to a geometric design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? d) Would the project result in inadequate emergency access? No Impact. The Land Use Element Update is focused on updates for consistency with the City’s recently adopted 6th Cycle Housing Element and associated Residential Overlay Program. The 6 th Cycle Housing Element and Residential Overlay Program are previously approved documents that have been thr ough
CITY OF RIALTO FOCUSED GENERAL PLAN UPDATE/NEGATIVE DECLARATION 14998 44
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CEQA review. The proposed project is consistent with the approved General Plan and applicable programs, plans, ordinances, or polices. The Land Use Element includes policies to ensure consistency with the 6 th Cycle Housing Element and Residential Over lay Program intended to accommodate housing needs associated with the RHNA allocation. Future housing development that could be facilitated by implementation of the Land Use Element Update along with the 6 th Cycle Housing Element and the Residential Overlay Program could result in more dense residential uses in certain areas . Increases in residential development could result in an increase in demand on traffic or circulation, or increase in vehicle miles traveled (VMT) which would be in conflict with CEQA G uidelines Section 15064.3, subdivision (b).
While the proposed policy update would not result in an impact or potential conflict, future residential development facilitated by the policy update could result in increased VMT. Potential traffic impacts related to increased transportation system demands or increased VMT associated with specific future residential projects would be assessed at the time the projects are proposed , prior to approval and development .
Mitigation measures would then be adopted as nec essary, in conformance with CEQA. Proposed policies would not alter roadway design features or propose incompatible uses such that it would result in increased hazards or effect emergency access.
The Circulation Element Update consists of revisions to the existing recommended truck routes. No other components of the Circulation Element would be updated or revised. The Circulation Element Update, described in Section 2.2.4, does not involve physical changes or construction, and would not inc rease hazards due to a design feature. The Circulation Element Update involves removing the following recommended truck routes: Riverside Avenue from Locust Avenue to Ayala Drive, Ayala Drive from Casmalia Street to Riverside Avenue, Ayala Drive from I -210 freeway to Baseline Road, Baseline Road from Cedar Avenue to east city limits, Pepper Avenue from I -210 freeway to Rialto Avenue, and Santa Ana Avenue between west city limits and east city limits. In addition, the following truck routes would be added by the project: two blocks along Foothill Boulevard between Cedar Avenue and Maple Avenue (the boundary with City of Fontana), two blocks along Arrow Boulevard between Cedar Avenue and Maple Avenue (the boundary with City of Fontana), and Agua Mansa Road bet ween Riverside Avenue and the boundary with City of Fontana.
The Environmental Justice Element supports pedestrian and transit facilities, such as Policy 9-2.3:
Implement bikeway improvements in DAC’s , as outlined in the San Bernardino County non-motorized transportation plan, prioritizing those with shade improvements where the right-of-way allows. Add parklets with mature trees along routes where feasible; Goal 9-3: Establish and maintain a comprehensive system of pedestrian trails and bicycle routes that provide viable connections throughout the City (also referenced in Circulation Element Goal 4 -8), and prioritize implementation in DACs with limited walking and biking infrastructure; Goal 9-4: Increase Safe and Comfortable Walking and Wheel chair Mobility; and Goal 9-8:
Provide for all residents and businesses to have equal access to reliable and convenient public transit services (also referenced in Circulation Element Goal 4-6).
The General Plan Updates would not conflict with current transportation planning in the City. Additionally, no existing roadways or design features would be affected by the project. Therefore, given the discussion above, the implementation of the Land Use Element Update, Circulation Element Update, Safety Element Update, and the Environmental Justice Element would not result in an impact on regulations, plans, or policies governing transportation systems, conflict with VMT guidelines, or otherwise result in impacts on roadways.
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d) Would the project result in inadequate emergency access? No Impact. The proposed project includes updates to the existing Land Use, Safety, and Circulation Elements of the City’s General Plan, and the new Environmental Justice Element. The proposed project does not incorporate any actual development or construction.
The Circulation Element Update consists of revisions to the recommended truck routes as described above.
These new routes do not affect the City’s emergency access. In addition, the Safety Element Update contains policies and goals that support the City’s adopted emergency operations plan and emergency response procedures, including Policy 5-6.6: C ontinue to study and monitor the conditions of existing evacuation routes to incorporate a range of emergency scenarios inclu ding differences in hazard types, locations, and timing. Consider collaboration with neighboring jurisdictions for hazard scenarios that may cause regional evacuation; Policy 5-6.7: When possible and deemed necessary, or during regular road maintenance, up grade existing roads to meet California Fire Safe Regulations minimum road widths, surface, grade, radius, and turnarounds to ensure emergency vehicle access is possible. To ensure vegetation allows for continued emergency vehicle access, perform City main tenance on city roads and enforcement on private roads; Goal 5-8, ensure that first responders and the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) have adequate capacity to respond to hazard events; and Goal 5-9: Include provisions for vulnerable populations in emergency response procedures and recovery efforts. The proposed project supports the City’s adopted Emergency Operations Plan and would not interfere with emergency access; therefore, no impact would occur.
3.18 Tribal Cultural Resources
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
XVIII. TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES
Would the project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource, defined in Public Resources Code Section 21074 as either a site, feature, place, 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:
a) Listed or eligible for listing in the California
Register of Historical Resources, or in a
local register of historical resources as
defined in Public Resources Code Section
5020.1(k), or
b) 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 Public Resources Code Section
5024.1? In applying the criteria set forth in
subdivision (c) of Public Resources Code
Section 5024.1, the lead agency shall
consider the significance of the resource to
a California Native American tribe.
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Would the project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cul tural resource, defined in Public Resources Code Section 21074 as either a site, feature, place, 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:
a) Listed or eligible for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources, or in a local register of historical resources as defined in Public Resources Code Section 5020.1(k)? b) 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 Public Resources Code Section 5024.1 ? In applying the criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resource Code Section 5024.1, the lead agency shall consider the significance of the resource to a California Native American tribe.
No Impact. The Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update, and new Environmental Justice Element are policy documents and adoption of these Elements alone would not produce environmental impacts. The Land Use Element Update consists of an updated land use map with additional residential overlays to be consistent with the City's recently adopted 6th cycle Housing Element and associated Residential Overlay Program; these revisions have been previously approved, and no actual development is proposed as part of the update. The Safety Element Update consists of updates to the City’s goals, policies and actions related to the natural and human-caused hazards and the risk to human life, property damage, and economic and social dislocation from hazard events within the City. The Environmental Justice Element addresses public health risks and environmental justice concerns of those living in DACs. The Circulation Element Update consists of an update to the Circulation Map. The proposed updates are administrative in nature and would not cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource. No impact would occur.
3.19 Utilities and Service Systems
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
XIX. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS – Would the project:
a) Require or result in the relocation or
construction of new or expanded water,
waste water treatment or storm water
drainage, electric power, natural gas, or
telecommunications facilities, the
construction or relocation of which could
cause significant environmental effects?
b) Have sufficient water supplies available to
serve the project and reasonably
foreseeable future development during
normal, dry, and multiple dry years?
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Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
c) Result in a determination by the waste
water treatment provider which serves or
may serve the project that it has adequate
capacity to serve the project’s projected
demand in addition to the provider’s
existing commitments?
d) 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?
e) Comply with federal, state, and local
management and reduction statutes and
regulations related to solid waste?
a) Would the project require or result in the relocation or construction of new or expanded water, waste water treatment or storm water drainage, electric power, natural gas, or telecommunications facilities, the construction or relocation of which could cause significant environmental effects? b) Would the project have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project and reasonably foreseeable future development during normal, dry and multiple dry years? c) Would the project result in a determination by the waste water treatment provider which serves or may serve the project that it has adequate capacity to serve the project’s projected demand in addition to the provider’s existing commitments?
d) Would the project 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? e) Would the project comply with federal, state, and local management and reduction statutes and regulations related to solid waste?
No Impact. The Land Use Element Update contains land use designation updates consistent with the Housing Element Update and the Residential Overlay Program previously approved by the City. Any future residential development consistent with the updated Land Use Element would be subject to project specific CEQA review, which would evaluate potential project specific environmental impacts. Because th e development anticipated by the 6th Cycle Housing Element would occur primarily on infill sites already served by well-established utilities service systems, the need for the expansion of existing systems or the construction of new systems, in compliance with applicable statutes and regulations, would be less than significant. As such, adoption of the proposed Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Environmental Justice Element, and Circulation Element Updates do not propose actual development or construction. Therefore, adoption of the updates would not result in impacts to water, waste water
CITY OF RIALTO FOCUSED GENERAL PLAN UPDATE/NEGATIVE DECLARATION 14998 48
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treatment or storm water drainage, electric power, natural gas, telecommunications, or solid waste services or facilities in Rialto. No impacts associated with utilities and service systems would occur.
3.20 Wildfire
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
XX. WILDFIRE – If located in or near state responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, would the project:
a) Substantially impair an adopted emergency
response plan or emergency evacuation
plan?
b) Due to slope, prevailing winds, and other
factors, exacerbate wildfire risks, and
thereby expose project occupants to
pollutant concentrations from a wildfire or
the uncontrolled spread of a wildfire?
c) 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?
d) 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?
a) Would the project substantially impair an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan?
No Impact. The proposed project includes updates to the existing Land Use, Safety, and Circulation Elements of the City’s General Plan, and the new Environmental Justice Element. The project does not propose actual development or construction.
As previously described in Section 3.9(f), the City of Rialto’s Standard Emergency Management System (SEMS) Multi-Hazard Function Plan (MHFP) outlines the City’s emergency response procedures (City of Rialto 2010) and the City of Rialto’s Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) addresses the City's planned response to emergencies associated with natural disasters and technological incidents (City of Rialto n.d.).
Additionally, the Safety Element Update contains policies and goals that support the adopted emergency operations plan and emergency response procedures, including Policy 6.6, Policy 6.7, Goal 8, and Goal 9.
The proposed project is consistent with the City’s adopted Emergency Operations Plan; therefore, no impact would occur.
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b) Due to slope, prevailing winds, and other factors, would the project exacerbate wildfire risks, and thereby expose project occupants to pollutant concentrations from a wildfire or the uncontrolled spread of a wildfire?
No Impact. The proposed project contains updates to the existing Land Use, Safety, and Circulation Elements of the City’s General Plan, and the new Environmental Justice Element ; the project does not propose actual development or construction. As discussed in Section 3.9(g), t he City of Rialto contains areas of moderate to very high Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ) to the north of the City, around Lytle Creek Wash (CAL FIRE 2023). The Safety Element Update contains goals and policies that minimize fire hazards.
Goal 1, and its supporting policies, aims to continue to build the City’s fire protection and prevention programs and requirements to minimize fire hazards. In addition, see section 3.9(g) for Safety Element policies related to fire hazards.
According to the General Plan, the City of Rialto has a history of extensive windstorms. These windstorms, related to the Santa Ana winds, are strong and extremely dry. Winds have the pot ential to push wildland fires in the Lytle Creek Area (City of Rialto 2010). Goal 14 of the Safety Element is to minimize the risks associated with wind hazards. This includes policy 14.1: Policy 14.1: Notify all developers, particularly those of multi -story or critical structures, of potential impacts resulting from Santa Ana Winds, and require appropriate structural and design treatment.
The Circulation Element Update and the Environmental Justice Element do not contain policies regarding or affecting wi ldfires. The Land Use Element Update contains residential overlay land use designation updates consistent with the Housing Element U pdate and the Residential Overlay Program that was previously approved by the City. Residential overlay designations would b e situated in the already developed area of the City, away from fire hazardous areas near Lytle Creek Area. Future development would be subject to project specific CEQA review, which would evaluate potential project specific environmental impacts, and would comply with the General Plan polices to reduce impacts to wildland fires.
No impact would occur.
c) Would the project 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? No Impact. As described above, the proposed project includes updates to the existing Land Use, Safety, and Circulation Elements of the City’s General Plan, and the new Environmental Justice Element. The project does not propose actual development or construction. Approval and implementation of these documents would not require the installation or maintenance of infrastructure. No impact would occur. d) Would the project 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? No Impact. The City contains areas outside of the 500-year flood plain or areas where flood hazards are undetermined. Outside of the Rialto incorporated area, surrounding Lytle Creek Wash, are areas of 100 - year floodplain (City of Rialto 2010). The Land Use Element Update contains residential ov erlay land use designation updates consistent with the Housing Element Update and the Residential Overlay Program that was previously approved by the City. Residential overlay designations would be situated in the already developed area of the City, away from fire hazardous areas near Lytle Creek Area. Additionally, future
CITY OF RIALTO FOCUSED GENERAL PLAN UPDATE/NEGATIVE DECLARATION 14998 50
OCTOBER 2023
development would be subject to project specific CEQA review, which would evaluate potential project specific environmental impacts, and would comply with the General Plan polices to reduce risks.
Goal 5-2 of the Safety Element Update is to Create a more flood -safe community through development standards and infrastructure improvements. New polices in the update include Policy 5-2.1: Conduct a mud and debris flow study to determine best sizing and mitigation for culverts immediately downstream from fire hazard severity zones and in the 100- and 500-year flood plain to accommodate wildfire flows. Prioritize resizing and mitigation for any known cul verts that require increased debris cleaning during the rainy season; Policy 5-2.2: Develop a green streets program to support a sustainable approach to stormwater, drainage, groundwater recharge, and landscaping and incorporate green streets standards and guidelines in all streetscape improvements; and Policy 5-2.6: Design new developments with water retention devices and permeable surfaces to minimize flooding of the surface drainage system by peak flows. Consult with water agencies and the San Bernardino County Flood Control District to consider the potential for larger - scale capture via diversion to large-scale spreading grounds or other options on a site-by-site basis.
The Environmental Justice Element is a policy document that establishes the City’s go als, policies and actions related to improving communities and reducing inequities within the City. The Environmental Justice Element does not propose any policies or actions that would result in impacts related to flooding or landslides. The Circulation Element does not contain updates that would impact flooding or landslides. The policies included in the proposed Safety Element Update improve flooding and drainage, therefore minimizing the risks of future development. No impact would occur.
3.21 Mandatory Findings of Significance
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
XXI. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE
a) Does the project have the potential to
substantially degrade the quality of the
environment, substantially reduce the
habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a
fish or wildlife population to drop below self-
sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a
plant or animal community, substantially
reduce the number or restrict the range of a
rare or endangered plant or animal, or
eliminate important examples of the major
periods of California history or prehistory?
b) Does the project have impacts that are
individually limited, but cumulatively
considerable? (“Cumulatively considerable”
means that the incremental effects of a
project are considerable when viewed in
connection with the effects of past projects,
the effects of other current projects, and the
effects of probable future projects.)
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Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
Impact With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
c) Does the project have environmental effects
which will cause substantial adverse effects
on human beings, either directly or
indirectly?
a) Does the project have the potential to substantially degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self - sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, substantially reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal , or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory?
b) Does the project have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? (“Cumulatively considerable” means that the incremental effects of a project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects.)
c) Does the project have environmental effects which will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly?
No Impact. As discussed throughout the above portions of the Initial Study Checklist, the Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update and new Environmental Justice Element are policy documents and adoption of these elements alone would not produce environmental impacts.
Although the proposed Residential Overlay Program would accommodate residential development required to meet Rialto’s RHNA allocation, the Land Use Element alone does not identify, describe, promote, entitle, or permit any particular residential development project. The Environmental Justice Element, Safety Element, and Circulation Element are also policy documents that do not identify, describe, promote, entitle, or permit any particular residential development projects.
The act of adopting the Land Use Element Update, Safety Element Update, Circulation Element Update and new Environmental Justice Element would not result in physical development, therefore, would not have the have the potential to result in environmental impacts, either limited or cumulative, affecting habitat; plant or animal communities; rare, endangered or threatened species; historic resources; or human beings.
4 References and Preparers
4.1 References Cited
CAL FIRE. 2023. Fire Hazard Severity Zones in State Responsibility Area. Accessed May 5, 2023. https://calfire- forestry.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=4466cf1d2b9947bea1d4269997e86553 Caltrans. 2023. California State Scenic Highway System Map. Accessed May 19, 2023. https://caltrans.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=465dfd3d807c46cc8e8057116f1 aacaa
City of Rialto. 2010. Rialto General Plan. December 2010. https://yourrialto.com/DocumentCenter/View/1494/2010-General-Plan City of Rialto. N.d. Emergency Operations Plan. N.d.
https://www.yourrialto.com/DocumentCenter/View/943/Emergency-Operations-Plan-PDF City of Rialto. 2021. City of Rialto Climate Adaptation Plan. September 28, 2021. https://www.yourrialto.com/DocumentCenter/View/2248/Final-Rialto-Climate-Adaptation-Plan City of Rialto. 2023. Plan to House Our Rialto, 6th Cycle Housing Element 2021-2029. January 28, 2023. https://www.yourrialto.com/DocumentCenter/View/4018/City-of-Rialto-2021-2029-Sixth-Cycle-Housing- Element-Update
DOC (California Department of Conservation). 2023a. California Important Farmland Finder. Accessed May 10, 2023. https://maps.conservation.ca.gov/DLRP/CIFF/
DOC. 2023b. California Williamson Act Enrollment Finder. Accessed May 10, 2023. https://maps.conservation.ca.gov/dlrp/WilliamsonAct/
RUSD (Rialto Unified School District). 2023. Our History. Accessed May 15, 2023. https://kec.rialto.k12.ca.us/domain/1098
South Coast AQMD. 2023. Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP). Accessed May 15, 2023. http://www.aqmd.gov/home/air-quality/clean-air-plans/air-quality-mgt- plan#:~:text=The%20South%20Coast%20Air%20Basin%20is%20classified%20as,%E2%80%9Csevere- 15%E2%80%9D%20nonattainment%20area%20for%20the%202015%20Ozone%20NAAQS.
U.S. Census Bureau. 2022. QuickFacts Rialto City, California. July, 1, 2022. https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/rialtocitycalifornia
4.2 List of Preparers
Organization 1
Asha Bleier, AICP LEED AP BD=C, Practice Director
Ronelle Candia, Senior Project Manager
Emily Seklecki, Environmental Planner
Tuesday Christopher, Environmental Planner
Carrie Kubacki, GIS Analyst
INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK