Table 7-3
Alternative 2 Compared to the Proposed Project
Alternative Dwelling Units Population
Nonresidential
Square Feet of
Development
Jobs
Jobs per
Housing
Unit
Alternative 2: Reduced Growth
Alternative 27,742 92,659 23,621,393 23,942 0.86
General Plan Update
(Proposed Project) *
32,092
32,081
107,187
107,152
24,367,961
24,409,917
26,978
26,986
0.84 Difference -4,350
-4,339
-14,528
-14,493
-746,568
-788,524
-3,036
-3,044
-
Notes:
*Assumes 2040 buildout of the proposed General Plan Update Draft EIR Page 7-15, Section 7.3, Environmental Analysis, has been modified in the Final EIR as follows:
As shown in Table 7-3, Alternative 2 would result in approximately 4,350 4,339 fewer housing units and 14,528 14,493 fewer residents within San Jacinto when compared to the proposed General Plan Land Use Map. Nonresidential development potential would be reduced by 746,568 788,524 square feet and employment opportunities would be decreased under this alternative, with approximately 3,036 3,044 fewer jobs created within the City limits when compared to the proposed General Plan Update.
Draft EIR Page 7-20, Section 7.3, Environmental Analysis, has been modified in the Final EIR as follows:
Similar to the General Plan Update, this Alternative would update the City’s environmental baseline conditions and development projections through 2040. As shown in Table 7-3, the Reduced Growth Alternative would anticipate 4,350 4,339 fewer residential units compared to the General Plan Update, which would result in 14,528 14,493 less residents compared to Alternative 2. Both the General Plan Update and Reduced Growth Alternative account for population growth and establish goals and policies to reduce potential growth-related impacts. The net increase in population and housing is nominal and would result in similar less than significant impacts.
This Alternative anticipates approximately 746,568 788,524 fewer square feet of non-residential development compared to the proposed Project. The reduction in non-residential development would result in a decrease of approximately 3,036 3,044 jobs. The amount and typology of allowable development under the General Plan Update and Alternative 2 has been crafted to meet City’s Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) for future housing needs. While Alternative 2 would provide sufficient development capacity to accommodate the City’s RHNA, the maximum density allowed under Alternative 2 (up to 22 du/acre) does not meet the State’s default density of 30 du/acre used to establish the affordability of new housing units. Absent of the ability to rely on the default density, the City would be
4.1.h
Packet Pg. 1828 Attachment: Final Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto – General Plan 2040
FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
October 2022 3-21 Errata
required to prove in the Housing Element based on substantial evidence that development at densities allowed under Alternative 2 would result in the production of units affordable to all income categories, including extremely very low, very low, low, and moderate income households.
Draft EIR Table 7-3, Alternative 2 Compared to the Proposed Project, has been modified in the Final EIR as follows:
Table 7-4
Alternative 3 Compared to the Proposed Project
Alternative Dwelling Units Population
Nonresidential
Square Feet of
Development
Jobs
Jobs per
Housing
Unit
Alternative 3: Employment
Focused Alternative 19,432 64,902 20,321,953 20,639 1.06 General Plan Update
(Proposed Project) *
32,092
32,081
107,187
107,152
24,367,961
24,409,917
26,978
26,986
0.84 Difference -12,660
-12,649
-42,285
-42,250
-4,046,008
-4,087,964
-6,339
-6,347
-
Notes:
*Assumes 2040 buildout of the proposed General Plan Update Draft EIR Page 7-24, Section 7.3, Environmental Analysis, has been modified in the Final EIR as follows:
As shown in Table 7-4, Alternative 3 would result in approximately 12,660 12,649 fewer housing units and 42,285 42,250 fewer residents within San Jacinto when compared to the proposed General Plan Land Use Map. Nonresidential square feet would be reduced by 4,046,008 4,087,964 square feet and employment opportunities would be decreased under this alternative, with approximately 6,339 6,347 fewer jobs created within the City limits when compared to the proposed General Plan.
Draft EIR Pages 7-29 through 7-30, Section 7.3, Environmental Analysis, has been modified in the Final EIR as follows:
Similar to the General Plan Update, this Alternative would update the City’s environmental baseline conditions and development projections through 2040. As shown in Table 7-4, the Employment Focus Alternative would anticipate 12,660 12,649 fewer residential units, which would result in 42,285 42,250 less residents compared to the General Plan Update. Both the General Plan Update and Employment Focus Alternative account for population growth and establish goals and policies to reduce potential growth-related impacts. The net increase in population and housing is nominal and would result in similar less than significant impacts.
This Alternative anticipates approximately 4,046,008 4,087,964 fewer square feet of non-residential development compared to the proposed Project. The reduction in non-residential development would result in a decrease of approximately 6,339 6,347 jobs. However, while the amount and typology of allowable development under the General Plan Update has been crafted to meet City’s Regional Housing
4.1.h
Packet Pg. 1829 Attachment: Final Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto – General Plan 2040
FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
October 2022 3-22 Errata
Needs Allocation (RHNA) for future housing needs, Alternative 3, similar to the existing General Plan, would not allow the City to adequately plan for population growth and housing to meet its RHNA obligations. As such, this Alternative would be considered environmentally inferior to the General Plan Update.
4.1.h
Packet Pg. 1830 Attachment: Final Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Kirby St
RamonaExpy
Soboba Rd
Mountain Ave
R
a
m
o
n
a
E
x
p
y
Ave
Soboba Rd
State St
Palm
W
a
s
h
i
n
g
t
o
n
A
v
e
CottonwoodAve
Espl
anadeA
v
e
Soboba Rd
State St
MenloAve
Hewitt St
Park Ave
M
a
i
n
S
t
C
o
m
m
o
n
w
e
a
l
t
h
Lyon Ave
Cawston Ave
7thSt
Ramona Blvd
Camino los Banos
7thSt
RecordRd
Odell Ave
Sanderson Av
D
e
e
e
g
a
n
S
t
Young St
Potter Rd
Warren Rd
R
a
m
o
n
a
E
x
p
y
Lake Park Dr
79 Ramona Expy
Palm Ave
olumbia St
Kirby St
Gilman Springs Rd
State St
Lyon Ave
Sanderson Ave
OaklandAve
79 79
CITYOFSANJACINTO
GENERALPLANUPDATE
Figure3-4.
ProposedGeneralPlan
LandUseMap
HEMET
BEAUMONT
0½1
Miles
San Jacinto
River
San Jacinto River
LegendC
ityofSanJacinto
SanJacintoSphereofInfluence
NeighboringCity
LandUseDesignation
VLDR:VeryLowDensityResidential
LDR:LowDensityResidential
MDR:MediumDensityResidential
HDR:HighDensityResidential
VHDR:VeryHighDensityResidential
MU:MixedUse
C:Commercial
DV:DowntownVillage
BP:BusinessPark
I:Industrial
PI:Public/Institutional
OS:OpenSpace
P:Park
SPA:SpecificPlanArea
Water
Sources:CityofSanJacinto;RiversideCounty.Mapdate:October7,2022.
TRAILSSP
SP01-03
VILLAGESSP
SP01-04
COVESP
SP01-01
ESPLANADESP
SP01-02
SOBOBA
SPRINGSSP
SP01-85
RANCHO
SANJACINTOSP
SP01-00
4.1.h
Packet Pg. 1831 Attachment: Final Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto
– General Plan 2040
FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
October 2022 3-25 Errata
This page intentionally left blank.
4.1.h
Packet Pg. 1832 Attachment: Final Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
FOR THE
SAN JACINTO GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
(SCH: 2020120312)
JULY 2022
Prepared for:
City of San Jacinto
Community Development Department
595 South San Jacinto Avenue
San Jacinto, CA 92583
Prepared by:
De Novo Planning Group
180 East Main Street, Suite 108
Tustin, CA 92780
D e N o v o P l a n n i n g G r o u p
A L a n d U s e P l a n n i n g , D e s i g n , a n d E n v i r o n m e n t a l F i r m
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1833 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1834 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
FOR THE
SAN JACINTO GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
(SCH: 2020120312)
JULY 2022
Prepared for:
City of San Jacinto
Community Development Department
595 South San Jacinto Avenue
San Jacinto, CA 92583
[email protected]
951-487-7330
Prepared by:
De Novo Planning Group
180 East Main Street, Suite 108
Tustin, CA 92780
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1835 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1836 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 TOC-1 Table of Contents Chapter Page Number
1.0 Executive Summary.................................................................................................................1-1
1.1 Project Location .........................................................................................................1-1
1.2 Project Background....................................................................................................1-1
1.3 Project Objectives ......................................................................................................1-2
1.4 Project Characteristics ...............................................................................................1-2
1.5 Environmental Impacts..............................................................................................1-3
1.6 Summary of Project Alternatives...............................................................................1-5
1.7 Summary of Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures ................................1-7
2.0 Introduction ............................................................................................................................2-1
2.1 Purpose & Type of EIR................................................................................................2-1
2.2 San Jacinto General Plan Update...............................................................................2-3
2.3 Intended Uses of the Program EIR.............................................................................2-4
2.4 Known Responsible and Trustee Agencies ................................................................2-4
2.5 Organization and Scope .............................................................................................2-5
2.6 Environmental Review Process..................................................................................2-7
2.7 Incorporated by Reference ........................................................................................2-8
2.8 Comments Received on the Notice of Preparation ...................................................2-9
3.0 Project Description..................................................................................................................3-1
3.1 Project Location .........................................................................................................3-1
3.2 Environmental Setting ...............................................................................................3-1
3.3 Project Background....................................................................................................3-3
3.4 Statement of Objectives ............................................................................................3-4
3.5 Project Characteristics ...............................................................................................3-4
3.6 Use of the EIR and Required Agency Approvals ......................................................3-17
4.0 Basis of Cumulative Analysis...................................................................................................4-1
4.1 Introduction ...............................................................................................................4-1
4.2 Cumulative Analysis in this EIR ..................................................................................4-2
5.1 Aesthetics.............................................................................................................................5.1-1
5.1.1 Purpose ................................................................................................................5.1-1
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1837 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 TOC-2 Table of Contents
5.1.2 Environmental Setting .........................................................................................5.1-2
5.1.3 Regulatory Setting................................................................................................5.1-4
5.1.4 Significance Criteria and Thresholds....................................................................5.1-7
5.1.5 Impacts and Mitigation Measures .......................................................................5.1-8
5.1.6 Cumulative Impacts ...........................................................................................5.1-19
5.1.7 Significant Unavoidable Impacts........................................................................5.1-20
5.1.8 References .........................................................................................................5.1-20
5.2 Agriculture Resources ..........................................................................................................5.2-1
5.2.1 Environmental Setting .........................................................................................5.2-1
5.2.2 Regulatory Setting................................................................................................5.2-4
5.2.3 Significance Criteria and Thresholds....................................................................5.2-7
5.2.4 Impacts and Mitigation Measures .......................................................................5.2-7
5.2.5 Cumulative Impacts ...........................................................................................5.2-12
5.2.6 Significant Unavoidable Impacts........................................................................5.2-12
5.2.7 References .........................................................................................................5.2-13
5.3 Air Quality ...........................................................................................................................5.3-1
5.3.1 Purpose ................................................................................................................5.3-1
5.3.2 Environmental Setting .........................................................................................5.3-1
5.3.3 Regulatory Setting..............................................................................................5.3-16
5.3.4 Significance Criteria and Thresholds..................................................................5.3-23
5.3.5 Impacts and Mitigation Measures .....................................................................5.3-27
5.3.6 Cumulative Impacts ...........................................................................................5.3-42
5.3.7 Significant Unavoidable Impacts........................................................................5.3-43
5.3.8 References .........................................................................................................5.3-43
5.4 Biological Resources.............................................................................................................5.4-1
5.4.1 Purpose ................................................................................................................5.4-1
5.4.2 Environmental Setting .........................................................................................5.4-2
5.4.3 Regulatory Setting..............................................................................................5.4-17
5.4.4 Significance Criteria and Thresholds..................................................................5.4-23
5.4.5 Impacts and Mitigation Measures .....................................................................5.4-24
5.4.6 Cumulative Impacts ...........................................................................................5.4-42
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1838 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 TOC-3 Table of Contents
5.4.7 Significant Unavoidable Impacts........................................................................5.4-43
5.4.8 References .........................................................................................................5.4-43
5.5 Cultural Resources ...............................................................................................................5.5-1
5.5.1 Purpose ................................................................................................................5.5-1
5.5.2 Environmental Setting .........................................................................................5.5-1
5.5.3 Regulatory Setting..............................................................................................5.5-19
5.5.4 Significance Criteria and Thresholds..................................................................5.5-23
5.5.5 Impacts and Mitigation Measures .....................................................................5.5-24
5.5.6 Cumulative Impacts ...........................................................................................5.5-30
5.5.7 Significant Unavoidable Impacts........................................................................5.5-31
5.5.8 References .........................................................................................................5.5-31
5.6 Energy ................................................................................................................................5.6-1
5.6.1 Purpose ................................................................................................................5.6-1
5.6.2 Environmental Setting .........................................................................................5.6-1
5.6.3 Regulatory Setting................................................................................................5.6-2
5.6.4 Significance Criteria and Thresholds....................................................................5.6-8
5.6.5 Impacts and Mitigation Measures .......................................................................5.6-8
5.6.6 Cumulative Impacts ...........................................................................................5.6-14
5.6.7 Significant Unavoidable Impacts........................................................................5.6-14
5.6.8 References .........................................................................................................5.6-14
5.7 Geology ................................................................................................................................5.7-1
5.7.1 Purpose ................................................................................................................5.7-1
5.7.2 Environmental Setting .........................................................................................5.7-1
5.7.3 Regulatory Setting..............................................................................................5.7-16
5.7.4 Significance Criteria and Thresholds..................................................................5.7-19
5.7.5 Impacts and Mitigation Measures .....................................................................5.7-20
5.7.6 Cumulative Impacts ...........................................................................................5.7-35
5.7.7 Significant Unavoidable Impacts........................................................................5.7-36
5.7.8 References .........................................................................................................5.7-36
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1839 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 TOC-4 Table of Contents
5.8 Greenhouse Gases Emissions...............................................................................................5.8-1
5.8.1 Purpose ................................................................................................................5.8-1
5.8.2 Environmental Setting .........................................................................................5.8-1
5.8.3 Regulatory Setting................................................................................................5.8-5
5.8.4 Significance Criteria and Thresholds..................................................................5.8-16
5.8.5 Impacts and Mitigation Measures .....................................................................5.8-18
5.8.6 Cumulative Impacts ...........................................................................................5.8-41
5.8.7 Significant Unavoidable Impacts........................................................................5.8-41
5.8.8 References .........................................................................................................5.8-41
5.9 Hazards and Hazardous Materials .......................................................................................5.9-1
5.9.1 Purpose ................................................................................................................5.9-1
5.9.2 Environmental Setting .........................................................................................5.9-1
5.9.3 Regulatory Setting................................................................................................5.9-8
5.9.4 Significance Criteria and Thresholds..................................................................5.9-14
5.9.5 Impacts and Mitigation Measures .....................................................................5.9-15
5.9.6 Cumulative Impacts ...........................................................................................5.9-42
5.9.7 Significant Unavoidable Impacts........................................................................5.9-42
5.9.8 References .........................................................................................................5.9-42
5.10 Hydrology and Water Quality ..........................................................................................5.10-1
5.10.1 Purpose ............................................................................................................5.10-1
5.10.2 Environmental Setting .....................................................................................5.10-1
5.10.3 Regulatory Setting............................................................................................5.10-6
5.10.4 Significance Criteria and Thresholds..............................................................5.10-15
5.10.5 Impacts and Mitigation Measures .................................................................5.10-16
5.10.6 Cumulative Impacts .......................................................................................5.10-36
5.10.7 Significant Unavoidable Impacts....................................................................5.10-37
5.10.8 References .....................................................................................................5.10-37
5.11 Land Use and Planning.....................................................................................................5.11-1
5.11.1 Environmental Setting .....................................................................................5.11-1
5.11.2 Regulatory Setting............................................................................................5.11-5
5.11.3 Significance Criteria and Thresholds..............................................................5.11-11
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1840 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 TOC-5 Table of Contents
5.11.4 Impacts and Mitigation Measures .................................................................5.11-11
5.11.5 Cumulative Impacts .......................................................................................5.11-29
5.11.6 Significant Unavoidable Impacts....................................................................5.11-30
5.11.7 References .....................................................................................................5.11-30
5.12 Mineral Resources ...........................................................................................................5.12-1
5.12.1 Environmental Setting .....................................................................................5.12-1
5.12.2 Regulatory Setting............................................................................................5.12-2
5.12.3 Significance Criteria and Thresholds................................................................5.12-2
5.12.4 Impacts and Mitigation Measures ...................................................................5.12-3
5.12.5 Cumulative Impacts .........................................................................................5.12-4
5.12.6 Significant Unavoidable Impacts......................................................................5.12-4
5.12.7 References .......................................................................................................5.12-4
5.13 Noise ..............................................................................................................................5.13-1
5.13.1 Purpose ............................................................................................................5.13-1
5.13.2 Environmental Setting .....................................................................................5.13-1
5.13.3 Regulatory Setting..........................................................................................5.13-17
5.13.4 Significance Criteria and Thresholds..............................................................5.13-26
5.13.5 Impacts and Mitigation Measures .................................................................5.13-26
5.13.6 Cumulative Impacts .......................................................................................5.13-47
5.13.7 Significant Unavoidable Impacts....................................................................5.13-49
5.13.8 References .....................................................................................................5.13-49
5.14 Population and Housing...................................................................................................5.14-1
5.14.1 Purpose ............................................................................................................5.14-1
5.14.2 Environmental Setting .....................................................................................5.14-1
5.14.3 Regulatory Setting............................................................................................5.14-3
5.14.4 Significance Criteria and Thresholds................................................................5.14-6
5.14.5 Impacts and Mitigation Measures ...................................................................5.14-7
5.14.6 Cumulative Impacts .......................................................................................5.14-11
5.14.7 Significant Unavoidable Impacts....................................................................5.14-12
5.14.8 References .....................................................................................................5.14-12
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1841 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 TOC-6 Table of Contents
5.15 Public Services..................................................................................................................5.15-1
5.15.1 Environmental Setting .....................................................................................5.15-1
5.15.2 Regulatory Setting............................................................................................5.15-9
5.15.3 Significance Criteria and Thresholds..............................................................5.15-15
5.15.4 Impacts and Mitigation Measures .................................................................5.15-15
5.15.5 Cumulative Impacts .......................................................................................5.15-30
5.15.6 Significant Unavoidable Impacts....................................................................5.15-31
5.15.7 References .....................................................................................................5.15-31
5.16 Recreation........................................................................................................................5.16-1
5.16.1 Environmental Setting .....................................................................................5.16-1
5.16.2 Regulatory Setting............................................................................................5.16-5
5.16.3 Significance Criteria and Thresholds................................................................5.16-7
5.16.4 Impacts and Mitigation Measures ...................................................................5.16-7
5.16.5 Cumulative Impacts .......................................................................................5.16-17
5.16.6 Significant Unavoidable Impacts....................................................................5.16-18
5.16.7 References .....................................................................................................5.16-18
5.17 Transportation .................................................................................................................5.17-1
5.17.1 Purpose ............................................................................................................5.17-1
5.17.2 Environmental Setting .....................................................................................5.17-1
5.17.3 Regulatory Setting..........................................................................................5.17-11
5.17.4 Significance Criteria and Thresholds..............................................................5.17-16
5.17.5 Impacts and Mitigation Measures .................................................................5.17-17
5.17.6 Cumulative Impacts .......................................................................................5.17-29
5.17.7 Significant Unavoidable Impacts....................................................................5.17-30
5.17.8 References .....................................................................................................5.17-30
5.18 Tribal Cultural Resources .................................................................................................5.18-1
5.18.1 Purpose ............................................................................................................5.18-1
5.18.2 Environmental Setting .....................................................................................5.18-1
5.18.3 Regulatory Setting............................................................................................5.18-5
5.18.4 Significance Criteria and Thresholds..............................................................5.18-10
5.18.5 Impacts and Mitigation Measures .................................................................5.18-11
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1842 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 TOC-7 Table of Contents
5.18.6 Cumulative Impacts .......................................................................................5.18-14
5.18.7 Significant Unavoidable Impacts....................................................................5.18-14
5.18.8 References .....................................................................................................5.18-15
5.19 Utilities and Services Systems..........................................................................................5.19-1
5.19.1 Purpose ............................................................................................................5.19-1
5.19.2 Environmental Setting .....................................................................................5.19-1
5.19.3 Regulatory Setting..........................................................................................5.19-21
5.19.4 Significance Criteria and Thresholds..............................................................5.19-34
5.19.5 Impacts and Mitigation Measures .................................................................5.19-35
5.19.6 Cumulative Impacts .......................................................................................5.19-54
5.19.7 Significant Unavoidable Impacts....................................................................5.19-56
5.19.8 References .....................................................................................................5.19-58
5.20 Wildfire ............................................................................................................................5.20-1
5.20.1 Environmental Setting .....................................................................................5.20-1
5.20.2 Regulatory Setting............................................................................................5.20-4
5.20.3 Significance Criteria and Thresholds................................................................5.20-9
5.20.4 Impacts and Mitigation Measures .................................................................5.20-10
5.20.5 Cumulative Impacts .......................................................................................5.20-25
5.20.6 Significant Unavoidable Impacts....................................................................5.20-26
5.20.7 References .....................................................................................................5.20-26
6.0 Other CEQA Considerations .................................................................................................6.0-1
6.1 Long-Term Implications of the Proposed Project ...................................................6.0-1
6.2 Significant Irreversible Environmental Changes .....................................................6.0-1
6.3 Growth-Inducing Impacts .......................................................................................6.0-3
6.4 Significant and Unavoidable Impacts......................................................................6.0-5
7.0 Alternatives.............................................................................................................................7-1
7.1 Introduction ...............................................................................................................7-1
7.2 Alternatives Considered in this EIR............................................................................7-1
7.3 Environmental Analysis..............................................................................................7-4
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1843 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 TOC-8 Table of Contents
8.0 Report Preparers.....................................................................................................................8-1
8.1 Lead Agency ...............................................................................................................8-1
8.1 Preparers of the Environmental Impact Report ........................................................8-1 Table Page Number
Table 1-1: General Plan Growth Assumptions.....................................................................1-3 Table 1-2: Summary of Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures.........................1-9 Table 3-1: Existing General Plan Land Use Designations .....................................................3-2 Table 3-2: Proposed General Plan Land Use Designations ..................................................3-8 Table 3-3: General Plan Land Use Designations Comparison by Acres ...............................3-9 Table 3-4: General Plan 2040 Buildout by Land Use Designation .....................................3-15 Table 3-5: General Plan Update Growth Assumptions......................................................3-17 Table 4-1: Riverside County Growth Projections.................................................................4-3 Table 5.2-1: Acres of FMMP Farmland within Study Area...................................................5.2-2 Table 5.3-1: Meteorological Summary ................................................................................5.3-3 Table 5.3-2: South Coast Air Basin Attainment Status.......................................................5.3-12 Table 5.3-3: Local Area Air Quality Levels..........................................................................5.3-15 Table 5.3-4: Maximum Regional Construction Emissions..................................................5.3-34 Table 5.3-5: Maximum Regional Operational Emissions (pounds/day) ............................5.3-34 Table 5.3-5: Maximum Regional Construction Emissions (pounds/day)...........................5.3-32 Table 5.4-1: Cover Types California Wildlife Habitat Relationship System.......................5.4-8 Table 5.4-2: Special-Status Plants Present or Potentially Present.....................................5.4-12 Table 5.4-3: Special-Status Animals Present or Potentially Present .................................5.4-14 Table 5.5-1: Cultural Resources Recorded within the Study Area.......................................5.5-7 Table 5.5-2: Office of Historic Preservation, Historic Resource Inventory (HRI) List.........5.5-13 Table 5.6-1: Maximum Regional Construction Emissions....................................................5.6-9 Table 5.6-2: On-Road Mobile Fuel Generated by Project Construction Activities By Phase ......................................................................................5.6-10 Table 5.7-1: Richter Magnitudes and Effects ......................................................................5.7-4 Table 5.7-2: Distance between Fault Lines and the City of San Jacinto...............................5.7-5 Table 5.7-3: Historically Active and Active Fault Zones in the Region.................................5.7-6 Table 5.7-4: Likelihood of Having One or More Earthquakes by Size in the Next 30 Years (Starting from 2014) .......................................................5.7-7
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1844 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 TOC-9 Table of Contents Table 5.7-5: Modified Mercalli Intensities and Effects ........................................................5.7-8 Table 5.7-6: Liquefaction Potential Based on Sediment Type and Age of Deposit ...........5.7-10 Table 5.7-7: Geologic Units and Their Paleontological Potential ......................................5.7-13 Table 5.8-1: City of San Jacinto GHG Emission Inventories and BAU Forecasts (MTCO2e) ...............................................................................5.8-19 Table 5.8-2: WRCOG Subregional Climate Action Plan GHG Reduction Measures ...........5.8-20 Table 5.8-3: General Plan Update Consistency with the 2017 Scoping Plan.....................5.8-23 Table 5.8-4: General Plan Update Consistency with the 2020 RTP/SCS............................5.8-38 Table 5.9-1: GeoTracker Database Sites ..............................................................................5.9-3 Table 5.11-1: Existing Land Use Summary ...........................................................................5.11-2 Table 5.11-2: Recently Completed Significant Projects.......................................................5.11-4 Table 5.11-3: SCAG 2020 RTP/SCS Goals Project Consistency Analysis.............................5.11-14 Table 5.12-1: Mineral Resources Classification System.......................................................5.12-1 Table 5.13-1: Decibel Addition.............................................................................................5.13-2 Table 5.13-2: Typical Noise Levels .......................................................................................5.13-3 Table 5.13-3: Perceived Changes in Noise Levels ................................................................5.13-4 Table 5.13-4: Noise Reduction Afforded by Common Building Construction .....................5.13-8 Table 5.13-5: Typical Human Reaction and Effect on Buildings Due to Ground-Borne Vibration ....................................................................5.13-9 Table 5.13-6: Short-Term Noise Measurement Summary.................................................5.13-12 Table 5.13-7: Long-Term Noise Measurement Summary..................................................5.13-13 Table 5.13-8: Existing Exterior Noise Levels Along Roadways ...........................................5.13-15 Table 5.13-9: FHWA Design Noise Levels...........................................................................5.13-19 Table 5.13-10: Designated Noise Zones...............................................................................5.13-22 Table 5.13-11: Allowable Exterior Noise Level Due to Stationary Noise Sources ...............5.13-23 Table 5.13-12: Allowable Interior Noise Level Due to Stationary Noise Sources ................5.13-24 Table 5.13-13: 2040 Future Traffic Noise Levels..................................................................5.13-28 Table 5.13-14: 2040 Future Traffic Noise Levels with General Plan Update .......................5.13-30 Table 5.13-15: Typical Construction Noise Levels................................................................5.13-36 Table 5.13-16: Vibration Source Levels for Construction Equipment..................................5.13-45 Table 5.13-17: Guidelines Vibration Damage Potential Threshold Criteria.........................5.13-46 Table 5.14-1: Historic Population Trends ............................................................................5.14-1 Table 5.14-2: SCAG Growth Forecasts .................................................................................5.14-2
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1845 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 TOC-10 Table of Contents Table 5.14-3: Existing Housing Supply Mix ..........................................................................5.14-2 Table 5.14-4: Labor Force Participation and Unemployment .............................................5.14-3 Table 5.14-5: San Jacinto 6th Cycle Regional Housing Needs Allocation..............................5.14-4 Table 5.14-6: General Plan Update Compared to SCAG......................................................5.14-8 Table 5.15-1: City of San Jacinto Response Statistics ..........................................................5.15-2 Table 5.15-2: Crimes by Category........................................................................................5.15-5 Table 5.15-3: San Jacinto Schools ........................................................................................5.15-7 Table 5.15-4: San Jacinto Unified School District School Capacity ......................................5.15-8 Table 5.15-5: San Jacinto Unified School District Student Generation Rates....................5.15-24 Table 5.16-1: Existing Parkland and Recreational/Community Uses...................................5.16-2 Table 5.16-2: Required Parkland Dedication .......................................................................5.16-8 Table 5.17-1: Riverside Transit Agency Lines and Ridership................................................5.17-7 Table 5.17-2: Pedestrian Facility Conditions in San Jacinto.................................................5.17-9 Table 5.17-3: Cumulative (2040) VMT Comparison...........................................................5.17-22 Table 5.19-1: City of San Jacinto Water Department Projected Water Supply ...................5.19-5 Table 5.19-2: City of San Jacinto Water Department Water Supply and Demand Normal Year...........................................................................5.19-5 Table 5.19-3: City of San Jacinto Water Department Water Supply and Demand Comparison Single Dry Year ..................................................5.19-6 Table 5.19-4: City of San Jacinto Water Department Water Supply and Demand Comparison Multiple Dry Years.............................................5.19-6 Table 5.19-5: EMWD Current Water Supplies .....................................................................5.19-8 Table 5.19-6: EMWD Water Supply and Demand Comparison Normal Year ...................5.19-8 Table 5.19-7: EMWD Water Supply and Demand Comparison Single Dry Year ...............5.19-9 Table 5.19-8: EMWD Supply and Demand Comparison Multiple Dry Years...................5.19-10 Table 5.19-9: LHMWD Current Water Supplies .................................................................5.19-11 Table 5.19-10: LHMWD Water Supply and Demand Comparison Normal Year...............5.19-12 Table 5.19-11: LHMWD Water Supply and Demand Comparison Single Dry Year...........5.19-12 Table 5.19-12: LHMWD Supply and Demand Comparison Multiple Dry Years ................5.19-13 Table 5.19-13: Estimated Water Flows for San Jacinto .......................................................5.19-15 Table 5.19-14: Solid Waste Generation Rates in City of San Jacinto ...................................5.19-19 Table 5.20-1: History of Fire in San Jacinto and Surrounding Area .....................................5.20-3 Table 7-1: Growth Projections by Alternative .....................................................................7-5
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1846 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 TOC-11 Table of Contents Table 7-2: Alternative 1: No Project Alternative Compared to the Proposed Project ........7-6 Table 7-3: Alternative 2 Compared to the Proposed Project ...........................................7-15 Table 7-4: Alternative 3 Compared to the Proposed Project ............................................7-24 Table 7-5: Comparison of Alternatives ..............................................................................7-33 Figure Page Number
Note: Figures are located at the end of the chapters.
Figure 3-1: Regional Location Map .....................................................................................3-19 Figure 3-2: General Plan Study Area ...................................................................................3-21 Figure 3-3: Existing General Plan Land Use Map ................................................................3-23 Figure 3-4: General Plan Update Land Use Map.................................................................3-25 Figure 5.2-1: Important Farmlands Map.............................................................................5.2-15 Figure 5.2-2: Agricultural Preserve Lands ...........................................................................5.2-17 Figure 5.4-1: Wildlife Habitat Relationship Cover Types ....................................................5.4-45 Figure 5.4-2: California Natural Diversity Database: One-Mile Search...............................5.4-47 Figure 5.4-3: California Natural Diversity Database: Twelve-Quad Search ........................5.4-49 Figure 5.4-4: The National Wetlands Inventory: Surface Waters and Wetlands................5.4-51 Figure 5.7-1: Fault Zones.....................................................................................................5.7-39 Figure 5.7-2: Liquefaction Susceptibility.............................................................................5.7-41 Figure 5.7-3: NRCS Soils Map ..............................................................................................5.7-43 Figure 5.7-4: Shrink-Swell Potential of Soils........................................................................5.7-45 Figure 5.7-5: Landslide Susceptibility..................................................................................5.7-47 Figure 5.7-6: Paleontological Sensitivity ............................................................................5.7-49 Figure 5.9-1: Airport Land Use Compatibility Zones ...........................................................5.9-45 Figure 5.10-1: Hydrologic Units...........................................................................................5.10-39 Figure 5.10-2: Hydrologic Areas..........................................................................................5.10-41 Figure 5.10-3: Groundwater Management Areas...............................................................5.10-43 Figure 5.10-4: FEMA Flood Map..........................................................................................5.10-45 Figure 5.10-5: Dam Inundation Map...................................................................................5.10-47 Figure 5.11-1: Existing Land Use Map.................................................................................5.11-31 Figure 5.12-1: Mineral Resource Zones ................................................................................5.12-7 Figure 5.13-1: Noise Measurement Locations ....................................................................5.13-51 Figure 5.13-2: Existing Roadway Noise Level Contours ......................................................5.13-53
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1847 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 TOC-12 Table of Contents Figure 5.13-3: Proposed Roadway Classifications Map ......................................................5.13-55 Figure 5.13-4: 2040 Future Roadway Noise Level Contours...............................................5.13-57 Figure 5.16-1: Parks and Open Space..................................................................................5.16-19 Figure 5.17-1: Existing Bicycle Facilities ..............................................................................5.17-31 Figure 5.17-2: Existing Transit Routes.................................................................................5.17-33 Figure 5.17-3: Existing Truck Routes...................................................................................5.17-35 Figure 5.17-4: TMP Proposed Bicycle Facilities...................................................................5.17-37 Figure 5.19-1: Water Service Areas.....................................................................................5.19-59 Figure 5.19-2: Sewer Lines and Service Area ......................................................................5.19-61 Figure 5.20-1: Fire Hazard Severity Zones...........................................................................5.20-27 Figure 5.20-2: Fire Threat Areas..........................................................................................5.20-29 Figure 7-1: Alternative 2 Land Use Map .............................................................................7-35 Figure 7-2: Alternative 3 Land Use Map .............................................................................7-37 Appendices
Appendix A NOP and NOP Comments
Appendix B Air Quality Report
Appendix C Biological Resources
Appendix D Cultural Resources Assessment
Appendix E Greenhouse Gas Report
Appendix F Noise Impact Study
Appendix G Transportation Impact Analysis
Appendix H Tribal Consultation Communications
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1848 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 1-1 Executive Summary
1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1.1 PROJECT LOCATION
The City of San Jacinto is located at the base of the San Jacinto Mountains and adjacent to the San Jacinto River, refer to Figure 3-1, Regional Location Map in Section 3.0, Project Description. The City is approximately 26 square miles (16,700 acres) and is located south of the City of Beaumont, west of the City of Perris and north of the City of Hemet in Western Riverside County. The City sits approximately 27 miles west of the San Bernardino National Forest and approximately 21 miles east of the City of Perris.
The 79 Expressway runs through the City and is a primary corridor for regional access to San Jacinto.
The Study Area is the geographic area for which the General Plan Update provides a framework for longterm growth and resource conservation. State law requires the Study Area for the General Plan Update which in the planning agency's judgment bears relation to its planning" (California Government Code Section 65300). The General Plan Update Study Area, as shown in Figure 3-2, General Plan Study Area, of Section 3.0, includes the entire city limits
Sphere of Influence (approximately 6,100 acres); the entire Study Area is approximately 22,800 acres.
1.2 PROJECT BACKGROUND
California Government Code Section 65300 et seq. requires all counties and cities to prepare and maintain a General Plan for the long-term growth, development, and management of the land within the General Plan
ad legal document in relation to growth, development, and resource management issues.
Development regulations (e.g., zoning and subdivision standards) are required by law to be consistent with the General Plan.
The General Plan includes the eight elements mandated by State law, including: Circulation, Conservation, Housing, Land Use, Noise, Open Space, Environmental Justice and Safety. General Plans must also address the topics of climate change and resiliency planning, either as separate elements or as part of other required elements. At the discretion of each jurisdiction, the General Plan may combine these elements and may add optional elements relevant to the physical features of the jurisdiction. The City may also address other topics of interest; this General Plan includes an element related to Economic Development.
The California Government Code also requires that a General Plan be comprehensive, internally consistent, and plan for the long term. This General Plan Update plans out to the year 2040.
San Jacinto circulated a Notice of Preparation (NOP) of an EIR for the proposed Project on December 17, 2020 to trustee and responsible agencies, the State Clearinghouse, and the public. A scoping meeting was held virtually on January 6, 2021 consistent with State of California Executive Order N-29-20 dated March 17, 2020, regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. The NOP public review period began on Thursday December 17, 2020 and ended on Tuesday January 19, 2021.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1849 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 1-2 Executive Summary
1.3 PROJECT OBJECTIVES
The following objectives were identified for the proposed update to the General Plan:
1. Reflect the current goals and vision expressed by city residents, businesses, decision-makers, and other stakeholders;
2. and character;
3. Promote San Jacinto as a safe, vibrant, and family-friendly community;
4. Proactively plan for and accommodate local and regional growth in a responsible manner;
5. Encourage the rev ;
6. Allow for a range of housing options;
7. Attract and retain businesses and industries that provide jobs for local residents;
8. Create a more balanced jobs-housing ratio within the community;
9. Continue to maintain and improve multimodal transportation opportunities;
10. Maintain strong fiscal sustainability and continue to provide efficient and adequate public services;
11. Address new requirements of State law; and
12. Address emerging transportation, housing, and employment trends.
1.4 PROJECT CHARACTERISTICS
The City of San Jacinto is preparing a comprehensive update to its existing General Plan. The updated San Jacinto General Plan is expected to be adopted in 2022 , growth, and conservation through land use objectives and policy guidance. The General Plan Update is intended Study Area, and constitutes the policy and
regulatory framework by which future development projects will be reviewed and public improvements will be implemented. The City will implement the General Plan Update by requiring development, infrastructure improvements, and other projects to be consistent with its policies, and by implementing the actions included in the General Plan Update.
The San Jacinto General Plan Update includes a comprehensive set of goals, policies, and actions (implementation measures), organized into Elements, as well as a revised Land Use Map (refer to Figure 3-4, General Plan Update Land Use Map, of Section 3.0). The goals and policies provide guidance to the City on how to direct change, manage growth, and manage resources over the 20-year life of the General Plan. In order to ensure that the goals and policies in the General Plan are effectively implemented, a series of actions, or implementation measures have been developed, and are presented in each Element alongside the goals and policies they implement.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1850 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 1-3 Executive Summary
The General Plan Update includes: Land Use Element; Resource Management Element (Conservation and Open Space); Environmental Justice Element; Mobility Element; Public Safety Element (Safety and Noise); Community Facilities Element; and Economic Development Element. Together, they present a consistent policy platform, as required by law.
1.4.1 GENERAL PLAN BUILDOUT ANALYSIS
The maximum density or intensity permitted for an individual parcel is controlled by the land use designation, unless a density bonus pursuant to San Jacinto Municipal Code Chapter 17.130, Affordable Housing Density Bonus applies. In addition to the land use designation, development of a parcel is influenced by a variety of factors including the physical characteristics of a parcel, compatibility with nearby uses, access and infrastructure limitations, market factors, and previous development trends.
While no specific development projects are proposed as part of the San Jacinto General Plan Update, the General Plan Update will accommodate future growth in San Jacinto, including new businesses, expansion of existing businesses, and new residential uses. The buildout analysis assumes a 20-year planning horizon (the level of development that could reasonably be expected by the year 2040), while the year 2060 is assumed to be the full buildout year of the General Plan (the point at which all parcels in the City are developed according to their General Plan land use designation). The 20-year planning horizon (2040) represents approximately 50 percent of total buildout; this expected pace of growth is based on historical development patterns in and around San Jacinto and development trends projected for Western Riverside County.
Table 1-1, General Plan Update Growth Assumptions, summarizes the growth anticipated by the General Plan Update based upon the buildout potential associated with the Proposed Land Use Map in 2040 compared to existing on-the-ground conditions by General Plan Update Land Use Designation (refer to Table 3-4, General Plan 2040 Buildout by Land Use Designation, of Section 3.0).
Table 1-1
General Plan Update Growth Assumptions
Description Housing Units Population
Non-Residential
Development
(Square Feet)
Jobs
Existing Conditions (2020) 15,830 52,872 2,573,593 7,312 2040 General Plan 32,081 107,152 24,413,227 26,986
Net Change +16,252 +54,280 +21,839,634 +19,674
1.5 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
The City determined that a Program EIR should be prepared pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines (CEQA Guidelines). The environmental issues identified by the City for assessment in the Program EIR are:
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1851 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 1-4 Executive Summary
Aesthetics
Agricultural 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
Noise
Population and Housing
Public Services
Recreation
Transportation
Tribal Cultural Resources
Utilities and Service Systems
Wildfire
Section 5.0, Environmental Analysis, of this EIR provides a description of potential environmental impacts of the General Plan Update. After implementation of the General Plan Update goals, policies, and actions, most of the potentially significant impacts associated with the proposed General Plan Update would be reduced to a less than significant level. However, the impacts listed below could not be feasibly mitigated and would result in a significant and unavoidable impact with implementation of the General Plan Update.
Agricultural Resources
General Plan implementation would result in the conversion of farmlands, including Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, and properties under a Williamson Act contract, to non-agricultural use.
Cumulative impact to agricultural lands and resources.
Air Quality
General Plan implementation would result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of criteria pollutants for which the project region is non-attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard.
General Plan implementation would expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1852 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 1-5 Executive Summary
Biological Resources
General Plan implementation could have a substantial adverse effect on candidate, sensitive, or special status species.
General Plan implementation could have a substantial adverse effect on riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
General Plan implementation would generate greenhouse gas emissions that would not satisfy the Greenhouse Gas reduction targets established by federal and State law and may have a significant effect on the environment.
Cumulative Greenhouse Gas emissions impact.
Noise
General Plan implementation would result in substantial permanent increases in existing noise levels at sensitive receptors.
Cumulative considerable impact relative to traffic noise.
1.6 SUMMARY OF PROJECT ALTERNATIVES
Pursuant to Section 15126.6 of the CEQA Guidelines an EIR shall describe a range of reasonable alternatives to the project, or to the location of the project, which would feasibly attain most of the basic objectives of the project but would avoid or substantially lessen any of the significant effects of the project, and evaluate the comparative merits of the alternatives. An EIR need not consider every conceivable alternative to a project. Rather it must consider a reasonable range of potentially feasible alternatives that will foster informed decision making and public participation. An EIR is not required to consider alternatives which are infeasible. The lead agency is responsible for selecting a range of project alternatives for examination and must publicly disclose its reasoning for selecting those alternatives. This EIR includes three alternatives as discussed below.
- Alternative 1 No Project Alternative
- Alternative 2 Reduced Growth Alternative
- Alternative 3 Employment Focused Alternative
Alternative 1: No Project Alternative
As required by CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(e), under Alternative 1, the City would not adopt the General Plan Update. The existing San Jacinto General Plan would continue to be implemented and no changes to the General Plan, including the Land Use Map, Circulation Diagram, goals, policies, or actions would occur. This Alternative assumes that ultimate development of the 2006 General Plan would occur and the 2006 General Plan would continue to provide outdated information regarding several issues, including projections and policy direction that were identified in the 2000s that are not reflective of the existing socioeconomic data and anticipated development patterns. Subsequent projects, such as amending the Municipal Code (including the zoning map), would not occur. The existing General Plan Land Use Map is shown on Figure 3-3, Existing General Plan Land Use Map in Section 3.0.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1853 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 1-6 Executive Summary
The development anticipated by the No Project General Plan Alternative would result in the following when compared to the General Plan Update:
9,789 fewer dwelling units;
32,697 fewer residents;
6,440,729 fewer nonresidential square feet of development; and 6,566 fewer jobs.
Alternative 2: Reduced Growth Alternative
Alternative 2 continues to provide for residential and nonresidential development in single-use and mixed-use formats throughout the City, but at residential densities and nonresidential intensities lower than those reflected in the proposed General Plan Update. This Alternative is defined by three major changes from the proposed General Plan Update:
1. Reduction in the maximum density and intensity associated with the Mixed-Use (MU) land use designation; in Alternative 2, the maximum density for residential development in areas designated for MU is reduced from 36 du/ac to 22 du/ac (consistent with the maximum density proposed for the High Density Residential land use designation) and the maximum intensity for nonresidential development is reduced from 1.0 FAR to 0.50 FAR (consistent with the maximum intensity proposed for the Commercial land use designation).
2. Elimination of the Downtown Village (DV) land use designation; in Alternative 2, areas previously designated for DV are designated for High Density Residential (HDR).
3. Elimination of the Very High Density Residential (VHDR) land use designation; in Alternative 2, areas previously designated for VHDR are designated for High Density Residential (HDR).
This alternative continues to allow for mixed-use opportunities with less development potential, and in more limited areas, than allowed under the General Plan Update. It also reflects a maximum residential density of 22 du/ac, consistent with the maximum residential density allowed under the current General Plan. This alternative was developed to potentially reduce the severity of significant and unavoidable impacts related to air quality, greenhouse gas emissions, and noise.
Figure 7-1, Alternative 2 Land Use Map, in Section 7.0, Alternatives, depicts the Land Use Map proposed for Alternative 2.
The development anticipated by the Reduced Growth General Plan Alternative would result in the following when compared to the General Plan Update:
4,339 fewer dwelling units;
14,493 fewer residents;
788,524 fewer nonresidential square feet of development; and
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1854 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 1-7 Executive Summary
3,044 fewer jobs.
Alternative 3: Employment Focused Alternative
Alternative 3 would revise the General Plan Land Use Map to place more emphasis on accommodating nonresidential development in non-mixed-use formats to create a more equal balance of housing and employment opportunities. This Alternative is defined by two major changes from the Proposed General Plan:
1. Refinement of the Mixed-Use (MU) land use designation to allow for a mix of only nonresidential uses (residential uses are prohibited); in Alternative 3, the land use definition for MU is updated allow for a mix of commercial, industrial, and business park uses and to preclude residential development (both as a stand-alone use or as part of a mixed-use project).
2. Elimination of the Downtown Village (DV) land use designation; in Alternative 3, areas previously designated for DV are designated for commercial uses.
This alternative emphasizes commercial development and business expansion in an effort to achieve a jobs-housing balance closer to 1.0. This alternative was developed to potentially reduce the severity of significant and unavoidable impacts related to air quality, greenhouse gas emissions and noise.
Figure 7-2, Alternative 3 Land Use Map, depicts the Land Use Map proposed for Alternative 3.
The development anticipated by the Employment Focused General Plan Alternative would result in the following when compared to the General Plan Update:
12,649 fewer dwelling units;
42,250 fewer residents;
4,087,964 fewer nonresidential square feet of development; and 6,347 fewer jobs.
1.7 SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES In accordance with the CEQA Guidelines, this EIR focuses on the P environment. The CEQA Guidelines defines a significant effect as a substantial adverse change in the physical conditions, which exist in the area affected by the proposed project. A less than significant effect is one in which there is no long or short-term significant adverse change in environmental conditions.
Some impacts are reduced to a less than significant level with the implementation of General Plan Update policies and actions, mitigation measures, and/or compliance with regulations.
The environmental impacts of the proposed Project, the impact level of significance prior to mitigation, the proposed mitigation measures to mitigate an impact, and the impact level of significance after mitigation are summarized in Table 1-2, Summary of Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1855 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 1-8 Executive Summary
This page intentionally left blank.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1856 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1857 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1858 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1859 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1860 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1861 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1862 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1863 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1864 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1865 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1866 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1867 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1868 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1869 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1870 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1871 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1872 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1873 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1874 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1875 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1876 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1877 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1878 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 2-1 Introduction
2.0 INTRODUCTION
2.1 PURPOSE & TYPE OF EIR
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requires that all State and local agencies consider the potential environmental impacts of projects over which they have discretionary authority. An Environmental Impact Report (EIR) is intended to provide decision-makers and the public with information concerning the potential environmental impacts of a proposed project, possible ways to reduce or avoid the possible significant environmental impacts, and identify alternatives to the project. An EIR must also disclose significant impacts that cannot be avoided; growth inducing impacts; effects found not to be significant; as well as significant cumulative impacts of all past, present, and reasonably anticipated future projects.
The City of San Jacinto is the Lead Agency under CEQA and is responsible for preparing this Program EIR for the General Plan Update (State Clearinghouse No. 2020120312). This Program EIR has been prepared in conformance with CEQA (California Public Resources Code Section 21000 et seq.), CEQA Guidelines (California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Section 15000 et seq.), and the rules, regulations, and procedures for implementation of CEQA, as adopted by the City of San Jacinto. The principal CEQA Guidelines sections governing content of this document are Sections 15120 through 15132 (Contents of Environmental Impact Reports), and Section 15168 (Program EIR).
The purpose of this Program EIR is to review the existing conditions, analyze potential environmental impacts, identify General Plan Update policies and programs that serve as mitigation, and identify additional mitigation measures to reduce potentially significant effects of the proposed City of San Jacinto General Plan Update (General Plan Update). For more detailed information regarding the proposed project, refer to Section 3.0, Project Description. The City of San Jacinto (which has the principal responsibility for processing and approving the Project) and other public (i.e., responsible and trustee) agencies that may use this Program EIR in the decisionmaking or permit process will consider the information in this Program EIR, along with other information that may be presented during the CEQA process. Environmental impacts are not always able to be mitigated to a level considered less than significant; in those cases, impacts are considered significant and unavoidable impacts. In accordance with Section 15093(b) of the CEQA Guidelines, if a public agency approves a project that has significant impacts that cannot be mitigated (i.e., significant unavoidable impacts), the agency shall state in writing the specific reasons for approving the project, based on the Final EIR and any other information in the public record for the project. This is termed, per Section 15093 This document analyzes the environmental effects of the General Plan Update to the degree of specificity appropriate to the current proposed actions, as required by Section 15146 of the CEQA Guidelines. The analysis considers the activities associated with the Project to determine the short-term and long-term effects associated with their implementation. This Program EIR discusses both the direct and indirect
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1879 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 2-2 Introduction
impacts of this Project, as well as the cumulative impacts associated with other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future projects at a programmatic level.
This EIR has been prepared as a Program EIR in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15168, which states the following:
a) General. A program EIR is an EIR which may be prepared on a series of actions that can be characterized as one large project and are related either:
1. Geographically,
2. As logical parts in the chain of contemplated actions,
3. In connection with issuance of rules, regulations, plans, or other general criteria to govern the conduct of a continuing program, or
4. As individual activities carried out under the same authorizing statutory or regulatory authority and having generally similar environmental effects which can be mitigated in similar ways.
b) Advantages. Use of a program EIR can provide the following advantages. The program EIR can:
1. Provide an occasion for a more exhaustive consideration of effects and alternatives than would be practical in an EIR on an individual action,
2. Ensure consideration of cumulative impacts that might be slighted in a case- by-case analysis,
3. Avoid duplicative reconsideration of basic policy considerations,
4. Allow the Lead Agency to consider broad policy alternatives and program-wide mitigation measures at an early time when the agency has greater flexibility to deal with basic problems or cumulative impacts, and
5. Allow reduction in paperwork.
c) Use with Later Activities. Subsequent activities in the program must be examined in the light of the program EIR to determine whether an additional environmental document must be prepared.
1. If a later activity would have effects that were not examined in the Program EIR, a new Initial Study would need to be prepared leading to either an EIR or a Negative Declaration.
2. If the agency finds that pursuant to Section 15162, no new effects could occur or no new mitigation measures would be required, the agency can approve the activity as being within the scope of the project covered by the program EIR, and no new environmental document would be required.
3. An agency shall incorporate feasible mitigation measures and alternatives developed in the program EIR into subsequent actions in the program.
4. Where the subsequent activities involve site-specific operations, the agency should use a written checklist or similar device to document the evaluation of the site and the activity to determine whether the environmental effects of the operations were covered in the program EIR.
5. A program EIR will be most helpful in dealing with subsequent activities if it deals with the effects of the program as specifically and comprehensively as possible. With a good and detailed analysis of the program, many subsequent activities could be found to be within the scope of the project described in the program EIR, and no further environmental documents would be required.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1880 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 2-3 Introduction
d) Use with Subsequent EIRs and Negative Declarations. A program EIR can be used to simplify the task of preparing environmental documents on later parts of the program. The program EIR can:
1. Provide the basis in an Initial Study for determining whether the later activity may have any significant impacts.
2. Be incorporated by reference to deal with regional influences, secondary effects, cumulative impacts, broad alternatives, and other factors that apply to the program as a whole.
3. Focus an EIR on a subsequent project to permit discussion solely of new effects which had not been considered before.
2.2 SAN JACINTO GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
GENERAL PLAN
Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040 (General Plan Update or Project) is the overarching policy document that guides land use, housing, transportation, open space, public safety, community services, and other policy decisions throughout the City of San Jacinto and the Sphere of Influence (collectively referred to as the Study Area). The General Plan includes the eight elements mandated by State law, to the extent that they are relevant locally, including: Circulation, Conservation, Housing, Land Use, Noise, Open Space, Environmental Justice and Safety. General plans must also address the topics of climate change and resiliency planning, either as separate elements or as part of other required elements. At the discretion of each jurisdiction, the general plan may combine these elements and may add optional elements relevant to the physical features of the jurisdiction. The City may also address other topics of interest; this General Plan includes an element related to Economic Development. The General Plan Update sets out the goals, policies, and actions in each of these areas, serves as a policy guide for how the City will make key planning decisions in the future, and guides how the City will interact with the broader Riverside County, surrounding cities, and other local, regional, State, and federal agencies.
The General Plan Update contains the goals and policies that will guide future decisions within the Study Area. It also identifies implementation programs, in the form of actions, that will ensure the goals and policies in the General Plan Update are carried out. As part of the General Plan Update, the City and the consultant team prepared several support documents that serve as the building blocks for the General Plan Update and analyze the environmental impacts associated with implementing the General Plan Update.
EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT
The Existing Conditions Report discusses -2019) trends and conditions; what is on the ground. It provides a detailed description of a wide range of topics within the City, such as demographic and economic conditions, land use, public facilities, and environmental resources. The Existing Conditions Report provides decision-makers, the public, and local agencies with context for making policy decisions. The Existing Conditions Report also provides the environmental setting and description contained within this Draft EIR.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1881 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 2-4 Introduction
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
An EIR responds to the requirements of CEQA as set forth in Sections 15126, 15175, and 15176 of the CEQA Guidelines. The Community Development Department and City Council will use the EIR during the General Plan Update process in order to understand the potential environmental implications associated with implementing the General Plan Update. This EIR was prepared concurrently with the General Plan policy document in order to facilitate the development of a General Plan that is largely self-mitigating. In other words, as environmental impacts associated with the new General Plan Update, including the Land Use Map, were identified; policies and actions were incorporated into the General Plan Update policy document in order to reduce or avoid potential environmental impacts.
2.3 INTENDED USES OF THE PROGRAM EIR
The City of San Jacinto, as the lead agency, has prepared this EIR to provide the public and responsible and trustee agencies with an objective analysis of the potential environmental impacts resulting from adoption of the General Plan Update and subsequent implementation of projects consistent with the General Plan Update. The environmental review process enables interested parties to evaluate the proposed Project in terms of its environmental consequences, to examine and recommend methods to eliminate or reduce potential adverse impacts, and to consider a reasonable range of alternatives to the project. While CEQA requires that consideration be given to avoiding adverse environmental effects, the lead agency must balance adverse environmental effects against other public objectives, including the economic and social benefits of a project, in determining whether a project should be approved.
This EIR will be used as the primary environmental document to evaluate all subsequent planning and permitting actions associated with the General Plan Update. This EIR may also be used by other agencies within Riverside County.
2.4 KNOWN RESPONSIBLE AND TRUSTEE AGENCIES
The term
discretionary approval power over the project or an aspect of the project (CEQA Guidelines Section y law over natural resources that
are held in trust for the people of the State of California (CEQA Guidelines Section 15386). While no Responsible Agencies or Trustee Agencies are responsible for approvals associated with adoption of the General Plan Update, implementation of future projects within the Study Area may require permits and approvals from such agencies, which may include the following:
California Air Resources Board (CARB);
California Department of Conservation;
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW);
California Department of Forestry and Fire (CALFIRE);
California Department of Toxic Substances Control;
California Department of Transportation (Caltrans);
California Department of Water Resources;
California Emergency Management Agency;
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1882 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 2-5 Introduction
California Energy Commission;
California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA);
California Office of Emergency Services;
Eastern Municipal Water District;
Lake Hemet Municipal Water District;
Native American Heritage Commission;
Riverside County Department of Waste Resources;
Riverside County Fire Department (RCFD);
Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District; San Jacinto Valley Unified School District;
Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB); South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD);
Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG);
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE); and
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).
2.5 ORGANIZATION AND SCOPE
Sections 15122 through 15132 of the State CEQA Guidelines identify the content requirements for Draft and Final EIRs. An EIR must include a description of the environmental setting, an environmental impact analysis, mitigation measures for any significant impacts, alternatives, significant irreversible environmental changes, growth-inducing impacts, and cumulative impacts. The EIR prepared reviews environmental and planning documentation developed for the Project, environmental and planning documentation prepared for recent projects located within the Study Area, and responses to the Notice of Preparation (NOP).
This Draft EIR is organized in the following manner:
SECTION 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Executive Summary summarizes the characteristics of the proposed Project, known areas of environmental impacts and possible mitigation measures. This chapter identifies alternatives that reduce or avoid at least one significant environmental effect of the proposed project.
SECTION 2.0 INTRODUCTION
Section 2.0 briefly describes the proposed Project, the purpose of the environmental evaluation, identifies the lead, trustee, and responsible agencies, summarizes the process associated with preparation and certification of an EIR, identifies the scope and organization of the Draft EIR, and summarizes comments received on the NOP.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1883 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 2-6 Introduction
SECTION 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Section 3.0 provides a detailed description of the proposed Project, including the location of land uses, intended objectives, background information, the physical and technical characteristics, including the decisions subject to CEQA, subsequent projects and activities, and a list of related agency action requirements.
SECTION 4.0 BASIS OF CUMULATIVE ANALYSIS
Section 4.0 describes the approach taken and methodology for the cumulative environmental analysis.
SECTION 5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
Section 5.0 evaluates the impacts associated with implementation of the General Plan Update. This section is organized according to issue area. Each area includes a description of the environmental and regulatory setting relative to that issue; the CEQA thresholds for the specific issue area; and the environmental impacts of the proposed Project. Implementation of General Plan Update goals, policies, and actions and their ability to reduce potential impacts are described in the Impacts and Mitigation Measures subsection.
Impacts and General Plan Update goals, policies and actions are generally organized according to the topical areas. However, an impact or General Plan Update goals, policies, or actions location within the document should not restrict it from being considered under another issue topic, even though omitted from that section. Many of the impacts relating to the General Plan Update are multi-faceted. Similarly, the goals, policies, and actions may accomplish several objectives and reduce more than one impact. It is important that decision-makers be cognizant of this fact in their consideration and use of this document.
If goals, policies, and actions are altered, the affect that would have on other issues should be evaluated.
SECTION 6.0 OTHER CEQA CONSIDERATIONS
Section 6.0 discusses the long-term implications of the proposed action. Irreversible environmental changes that would be involved in the proposed action, should it be implemented, are considered. The -inducing impacts, including the potential for population growth, and energy conservation impacts are also discussed.
SECTION 7.0 ALTERNATIVES
Section 7.0 provides a comparative analysis between the merits of the proposed Project and the selected alternatives. State CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6 requires that an EIR describe a range of reasonable alternatives to the project, which could feasibly attain the basic objectives of the Project and avoid and/or lessen any significant environmental effects of the Project.
SECTION 8.0 REPORT PREPARERS
Section 8.0 lists all authors and agencies that assisted in the preparation of the Draft EIR, by name, title, and company or agency affiliation.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1884 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 2-7 Introduction
APPENDICES
This section includes all notices and other procedural documents pertinent to the Draft EIR, as well as technical material prepared to support the analysis.
2.6 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW PROCESS
The review and certification process for the EIR has involved, or will involve, the following general procedural steps:
NOTICE OF PREPARATION
The City of San Jacinto circulated a Notice of Preparation (NOP) of an EIR for the Project on December 17, 2020 to trustee and responsible agencies, the State Clearinghouse, and the public. A scoping meeting was held on January 6, 2021 utilizing teleconferencing and electronic means consistent with State Executive Order N-29-20. No public or agency comments on the NOP related to the EIR analysis were presented or submitted during the scoping meeting. However, during the 30-day public review period for the NOP, which ended on January 19, 2021, 10 written comment letters were received on the NOP. A summary of the NOP comments is provided later in this chapter. The NOP and all comments received on the NOP are presented in Appendix A, NOP and NOP Comments. DRAFT EIR The Draft EIR contains a description of the Project, description of the environmental setting, identification of the P
to be significant, as well as an analysis of Project alternatives, identification of significant irreversible environmental changes, growth-inducing impacts, and cumulative impacts. This Draft EIR identifies issues determined to have no impact or a less than significant impact, and provides detailed analysis of potentially significant and significant impacts. Comments received in response to the NOP were considered in preparing the analysis in this EIR. Upon completion of the Draft EIR, the City of San Jacinto and Research to begin the public review period.
PUBLIC NOTICE/PUBLIC REVIEW
Coinciding with the NOC, the City of San Jacinto will provide a public notice of availability for the Draft EIR, and invite comment from the general public, agencies, organizations, and other interested parties.
Consistent with CEQA requirements, the review period for this Draft EIR is forty-five (45) days. Public comment on the Draft EIR will be accepted in written form. All comments or questions regarding the Draft EIR should be addressed to:
Travis Randel, Deputy City Manager Development Services City of San Jacinto
595 South San Jacinto Avenue
San Jacinto, CA 92583
[email protected]
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1885 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 2-8 Introduction
RESPONSE TO COMMENTS/FINAL EIR
Following the public review period, a Final EIR will be prepared. The Final EIR will respond to both oral and written comments received during the public review period.
CERTIFICATION OF THE EIR/PROJECT CONSIDERATION
The City of San Jacinto City Council will review and consider the Final EIR. If the City finds that the Final EIR is "adequate and complete," the City Council may certify the Final EIR in accordance with CEQA. As set forth by CEQA Guidelines Section 15151, the standards of adequacy require an EIR to provide a sufficient degree of analysis to allow decisions to be made regarding the proposed project that intelligently take account of environmental consequences.
Upon review and consideration of the Final EIR, the City Council may take action to approve, revise, or deny the Project. If the EIR determines that the project would result in significant adverse impacts to the environment that cannot be mitigated to less than significant levels, the City Council would be required to adopt a statement of overriding considerations as well as written findings in accordance with State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15091 and 15093. If additional mitigation measures are required (beyond the General Plan Update policies and actions that reduce potentially significant impacts, as identified throughout this EIR), a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP) would also be adopted in accordance with Public Resources Code Section 21081.6(a) and CEQA Guidelines Section 15097 for mitigation measures that have been incorporated into or imposed upon the project to reduce or avoid significant effects on the environment. The MMRP would be designed to ensure that these measures are carried out during project implementation, in a manner that is consistent with the EIR.
2.7 INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Pertinent documents relating to this EIR have been cited in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section environmental reports. The documents listed below, which are available for public review at the City of San Jacinto, Planning Department, at 595 South San Jacinto Avenue are hereby incorporated by reference into this EIR. Information contained within these documents has been utilized for each section of this EIR.
A brief synopsis of the scope and content of these documents is provided below.
CITY OF SAN JACINTO MUNICIPAL CODE
The San Jacinto Municipal Code (Municipal Code) consists of all the regulatory and penal ordinances and administrative ordinances of the
to control land uses, in
regulations, incorporated as Title 17, Zoning, are instituted in a separate document known as the City of San Jacinto Development Code. This Development Code is adopted to protect and promote the public health, safety, comfort, convenience, prosperity, and general welfare and to provide the economic and social advantages resulting from
purposes are to: maintain community character, conserve resources, regulate patter of land use, avoid congestion, and ensure compatibility between land uses.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1886 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 2-9 Introduction
Municipal Code Title 15, Buildings and Construction, adopts the 2019 California Building Standards Code, considerations. Other relevant Municipal Code regulations include the following, among others: Title 8, Health and Safety; Title 10, Vehicles and Traffic; and Title 12, Streets, Sidewalks, and Public Places; and Title 13, Public Services. 2.8 COMMENTS RECEIVED ON THE NOTICE OF PREPARATION The City received 10 comment letters on the NOP. Copies of these letters are provide in Appendix A of this Draft EIR and the comments are summarized below.
California Geological Survey: The California Geological Survey (CGS) recommends the General Plan Update address liquefaction and landslide hazards; faulting hazards; and ground shaking hazards, as well as include a description of regional and site-specific geology and soils within the planning area.
Mitchell M. Tsai, Attorney at Law on behalf of the Southwest Regional Council of Carpenters: Mr.
Tsai suggests that due to the COVID-19 Crisis, the City must adopt a mandatory finding of significance that the Project may cause a substantial adverse effect on human beings and mitigated COVID-19 impacts and recommends mitigation measures be adopted to mitigate health consistency with regional housing plans; and recommends development of a climate action plan (CAP) and consider all feasible greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) reduction measures.
California Department of Fish and Wildlife: The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) recommends the Draft EIR address the following: assessment of biological resources; analysis of direct, indirect and cumulative impacts to biological resources; alternatives analysis; mitigation measures for project impacts to biological resources; California Endangered Species Act; Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan; and Lake and Streambed Alteration Program. Additional recommendations include incorporation of water-wise concepts in project landscape and design plans.
Eastern Municipal Water District: Eastern Municipal Water District (EMWD) recommends the EIR d sewer discharge and determine if remaining capacity
in the EMWD facilities can adequately serve the Project; if not, the EIR needs to identify the additional improvements and facilities necessary to serve the Project.
Native American Heritage Commission: The Native American Heritage Commission provided direction regarding tribal consultation in accordance with Assembly Bill 52 and Senate Bill 18.
Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians:
specific Area of Historic Interest (AHI).
Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District: The Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (District) indicates the Project would not be impacted by District Master Drainage Plan facilities, nor are other facilities of regional interest proposed.
Riverside County Department of Water Resources: The Riverside County Department of Water Resources (RCDWR) recommends the EIR include the project maximum amount of waste generated from buildout using appropriate waste generation factors for the proposed land uses
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1887 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 2-10 Introduction
and provides information regarding solid waste collection and disposal. Potential measures are identified to help reduce solid waste. It is noted RCDWR provided two comment letters providing similar, updated comments.
Southern California Association of Governments: The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) provides SCAG Connect SoCal Goals for discussion of consistency in the Draft EIR and background regarding demographic and growth forecasts. SCAG recommends the Final PEIR for Connect SoCal be reviewed for guidance.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1888 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 3-1 Project Description
3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
3.1 PROJECT LOCATION
The City of San Jacinto is located at the base of the San Jacinto Mountains and adjacent to the San Jacinto River, refer to Figure 3-1, Regional Location Map. The City is approximately 26 square miles (16,700 acres) and is located south of the City of Beaumont, west of the City of Perris and north of the City of Hemet in Western Riverside County. The City sits approximately 27 miles west of the San Bernardino National Forest and approximately 21 miles east of the City of Perris. The 79 Expressway runs through the City and is a primary corridor for regional access to San Jacinto.
The Study Area is the geographic area for which the General Plan Update provides a framework for longterm growth and resource conservation. State law requires the Study Area for the General Plan Update which in the planning agency's judgment bears relation to its planning" (California Government Code Section 65300). The General Plan Update Study Area, as shown in Figure 3-2, General Plan Study Area, s Sphere of Influence (approximately 6,100 acres); the entire Study Area is approximately 22,800 acres.
3.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING
The City of San Jacinto is a city of approximately 55,000 people (US Census Estimate July 2021). Founded in 1870, and incorporated on April 9, 1888, San Jacinto is one of the County of Riverside's oldest communities with roots that stretch back to the earliest days of California. The rich history of agricultural land uses within San Jacinto has contributed to the character and development of the City over time.
Thriving businesses and bumper crops such as grains, apricots, and peaches promoted economic success within San Jacinto through the early 1900s. More recently, the City has focused attention on residential opportunities for its existing and future residents who find themselves drawn to the excellent quality of life and the unique character of the City.
San Jacinto is dominated by single-family housing and non-preserved agricultural land. Other residential uses, including mobile home communities and multi-family housing developments exist in San Jacinto but are less prevalent than single-family developments within the City. Additionally, there are multiple pockets of commercial uses across the City, which are primarily located adjacent to San Jacinto and Sanderson Avenues and State Street. There is also a significant amount of vacant land within the City boundaries and across its sphere of influence.
al Plan was last comprehensively updated in 2006 and the Housing Element was adopted in February 2022. Existing General Plan Land Use Map (Figure 3-3, Existing General Plan Land Use Map) designates land uses within the Study Area, which includes the City and its Sphere of Influence.
Table 3-1, Existing General Plan Land Use Designations, summarizes land uses included in the Existing General Plan (2006 General Plan).
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1889 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 3-2 Project Description Table 3-1
Existing General Plan Land Use Designations
General Plan Designation
Within City Boundary Within Sphere of
Influence Total Study Area
Acres
% of
Total
Acres
Acres
% of
Total
Acres
Acres
% of
Total
Acres
Estate Residential (ER) 7.43 <1% 0 0% 7.43 <1%
Rural Residential (RR) 375.26 2% 397.14 6% 772.4 3%
Low Density Residential (LDR) 4,932.55 30% 85.99 1% 5,018.54 22% Medium Density Residential (MDR) 1,534.81 9% 230.03 4% 1,764.84 8% Medium High Density Residential (MHDR) 259.29 2% 0 0% 259.29 1% High Density Residential (HDR) 0 0% 0 0% 0 0%
Very High Density Residential (VHDR) 102.36 1% 0 0% 102.36 <1% Community Commercial (CC) 944.77 6% 3.45 <1% 948.22 4%
Downtown Commercial (DC) 38.59 <1% 0 0% 38.59 <1%
Regional Commercial (RC) 0 0% 0 0% 0 0%
Office Park (OP) 0 0% 0 0% 0 0%
Business Park (BP) 9.08 <1% 0 0% 9.08 <1%
Industrial (I) 385.82 2% 0 0% 385.82 2%
Public/Institutional (PI) 975.1 6% 0 0% 975.1 4%
General Open Space (OS) 1,406.58 8% 4,557.81 74% 5,964.38 26% Open Space-Recreation (OS-R) 122.03 1% 199.64 3% 321.67 1% Parks (P) 176.59 1% 0 0% 176.59 1%
Water Source/River 595.84 4% 516.96 8% 1,112.8 5%
Special Planning Area 1,529.75 9% 0 0% 1,529.75 7%
Gateway Special Plan Area 1,672.5 10% 0 0% 1,672.5 7%
Right-of-Way 1,593.09 0% 143.24 2% 1,736.32 8%
Total 16,661.44 100% 6,134.26 100% 22,795.7 100%
Source: De Novo Planning, City of San Jacinto General Plan Existing Conditions Report, 2021.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1890 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 3-3 Project Description San Jacinto has several major land use plans, and special planning areas that oversee the development of their respective planning areas. These plans act as tools for implementing the goals and policies of the General Plan through the regulation of use, density, height and other design standards to achieve the overall vision of the selected area. Several areas of the City are unique in ways that require special consideration. These Special Planning Areas include land use and development policies specific to these areas.
3.3 PROJECT BACKGROUND
California Government Code Section 65300 et seq. requires all counties and cities to prepare and maintain a General Plan for the long-term growth, development, and management of the land within the General Plan acts
Development regulations (e.g., zoning and subdivision standards) are required by law to be consistent with the General Plan.
The General Plan includes the eight elements mandated by State law, including: Circulation, Conservation, Housing, Land Use, Noise, Open Space, Environmental Justice and Safety. General Plans must also address the topics of climate change and resiliency planning, either as separate elements or as part of other required elements. At the discretion of each jurisdiction, the General Plan may combine these elements and may add optional elements relevant to the physical features of the jurisdiction. The City may also address other topics of interest; this General Plan includes an element related to Economic Development.
The California Government Code also requires that a General Plan be comprehensive, internally consistent, and plan for the long term. The General Plan should be clearly written, easy to administer, and Housing element law requires local governments to adequately plan to meet their existing and projected housing needs, including their share of the regional housing needs allocation (California Government Code Sections 65580-65588). Government Code Section 65583(a)(3) requires local governments to prepare an inventory of land suitable for residential development, including vacant sites and sites having the potential for redevelopment, and an analysis of the relationship of zoning and public facilities and services to these sites. The inventory of land suitable for residential development shall be used to identify sites that can be developed for housing within the planning period. The housing element must identify and analyze potential and actual governmental constraints to the maintenance, improvement, or development of housing for all income levels, including housing for people with disabilities. Each jurisdiction must identify specific programs in its housing element that will allow it to implement the stated policies and achieve the stated goals and objectives.
State planning and zoning law (California Government Code Section 65000 et seq.) establishes that zoning ordinances are required to be consistent with the General Plan and any applicable specific plans, area plans, master plans, and other related planning documents. When amendments to the General Plan are made, corresponding changes in the zoning ordinance may be required within a reasonable time to ensure consistency between the revised land use designations in the general plan (if any) and the permitted uses or development standards of the zoning ordinance (Gov. Code Section 65860, subd. [c]).
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1891 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 3-4 Project Description California General Plan law requires each city and county to have adequate land zoned to accommodate a fair share of the regional housing needs. The share is known as the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) and is based on a Regional Housing Needs Plan (RHNP) developed by councils of government. The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) is the lead agency for developing the RHNP for the area that includes Riverside County and the City of San Jacinto.
3.4 STATEMENT OF OBJECTIVES
The following objectives were identified for the proposed update to the General Plan:
1. Reflect the current goals and vision expressed by city residents, businesses, decision-makers, and other stakeholders;
2. 3. Promote San Jacinto as a safe, vibrant, and family-friendly community;
4. Proactively plan for and accommodate local and regional growth in a responsible manner;
5. 6. Allow for a range of housing options;
7. Attract and retain businesses and industries that provide jobs for local residents;
8. Create a more balanced jobs-housing ratio within the community;
9. Continue to maintain and improve multimodal transportation opportunities;
10. Maintain strong fiscal sustainability and continue to provide efficient and adequate public services;
11. Address new requirements of State law; and
12. Address emerging transportation, housing, and employment trends.
3.5 PROJECT CHARACTERISTICS
The City of San Jacinto is preparing a comprehensive update to its existing General Plan. The updated San Jacinto General Plan is expected to be adopted in 2022 , growth, and conservation through land use objectives and policy guidance. The General Plan Update is intended Study Area, and constitutes the policy and
regulatory framework by which future development projects will be reviewed and public improvements will be implemented. The City will implement the General Plan Update by requiring development, infrastructure improvements, and other projects to be consistent with its policies, and by implementing the actions included in the General Plan Update.
The San Jacinto General Plan Update includes a comprehensive set of goals, policies, and actions (implementation measures), organized into Elements, as well as a revised Land Use Map (refer to Figure 3-4, General Plan Update Land Use Map). The goals and policies provide guidance to the City on how to
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1892 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 3-5 Project Description direct change, manage growth, and manage resources over the 20-year life of the General Plan. In order to ensure that the goals and policies in the General Plan are effectively implemented, a series of actions, or implementation measures have been developed, and are presented in each Element alongside the goals and policies they implement.
A goal is a description of the general desired result that the City seeks to create through the implementation of the General Plan.
A policy is a specific statement that guides decision-making as the City works to achieve its goals.
Once adopted, policies repres
out the standards that will be used by City staff, the Planning Commission, and the City Council in their review of land development projects, resource protection activities, infrastructure improvements, and other City actions. Policies are on-going and require no specific action on behalf of the City.
An action is an implementation measure, procedure, technique, or specific program to be undertaken by the City to help achieve a specified goal or implement an adopted policy. The City must take additional steps to implement each action in the General Plan. An action is something that can and will be completed.
Additional elements that relate to the physical development of the City will also be addressed in the General Plan Update. The degree of specificity and level of detail of the discussion of each General Plan Update Element need only reflect local conditions and circumstances. The San Jacinto General Plan Update will include all of the State-mandated elements, and will address two optional topics: Economic Development and Community Facilities.
The General Plan Update is being prepared to address the requirements of State law and the relevant items addressed in Government Code Section 65300 et seq. The San Jacinto General Plan Update is intended to reflect the desires and vision of San Jacinto residents, businesses, the Planning Commission, and City Council.
3.5.1 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE ELEMENTS
As part of the General Plan Update, some of the elements have been renamed and reorganized, including combining topical areas, as described and summarized below.
Land Use Element
The Land Use Element designates the general distribution and intensity of residential, commercial, industrial, open space, public/semi-public, and other categories of public and private land uses. The Land Use Element includes the Land Use Map, which identifies land use designations for each parcel in the Study Area (Figure 3-3). The Land Use Element provides descriptions of land use designations and policy guidance to address urage
land use compatibility, special guidance for mixed-use activity centers, and direction on community character and design.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1893 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 3-6 Project Description Resource Management Element (Conservation and Open Space) The Resource Management Element focuses on the cultural, natural, environmental, and man-made resources and the provision of open spaces. The Element combines the State-mandated Open Space and long-term vision for the future and land use map. The Resource Management Element also guides decision control, solid waste collection and disposal, and storm drainage and water quality. Other public and semipublic community facilities are also addressed in this chapter, including police and fire protection, schools, civic services and functions, parks and recreation, public work maintenance, public health, and cultural facilities.
Environmental Justice Element
The Environmental Justice Element establishes goals, policies, and actions to improve environmental conditions within the community, especially for sensitive population groups. Environmental issue areas include pollution exposure (including air quality); access to public facilities, such as public improvements, public services and community amenities; access to healthy food; safe and sanitary living conditions; opportunities and access for physical activity; and improved opportunities for civic engagement. This Element includes strategies to reduce public health risks and address environmental justice concerns of those living in disadvantaged communities.
Mobility Element
The Mobility Element correlates closely with the Land Use Element and identifies the general locations and extent of existing and proposed major thoroughfares, transportation routes, and alternative transportation facilities necessary to support a multi-modal transportation system. This Element is intended to facilitate mobility of people and goods throughout San Jacinto by a variety of transportation modes, including bicycle, pedestrian, and transit.
Public Safety Element (Safety and Noise)
The Public Safety Element establishes goals, policies and actions to protect the community from risk associated with geologic, fire, and flood hazards, as well as setting standards for emergency preparedness. -Jurisdictional
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan and the Western Riverside County Council of Governments (WRCOG) Subregional Climate Action Plan (CAP). This Element also addresses the required topics related to noise, including standards and policies to protect the community from the harmful and annoying effects of exposure to excessive noise levels. This Element includes strategies to reduce land use conflicts that may result in exposure to unacceptable noise levels.
Economic Development Element
The Economic Development Element is intende
growing and strengthening the local economy. The policies contained within the Element are intertwined with those found in other elements of the General Plan.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1894 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 3-7 Project Description Housing Element
The Housing
development of housing withing San Jacinto. The Element provides an indication of the need for housing in the community in terms of affordability, availability, adequacy and accessibility. It provides a strategy to address housing needs and identifies a series of specific housing program actions to meet community needs at all income levels for the 6th Cycle Housing Element Planning Period (2021-2029).
Existing and Proposed General Plan 2040 Elements
Existing General Plan Elements General Plan 2040 Elements Land Use Land Use
Community Services and Facilities Resource Management
Resource Management Resource Management
Circulation Mobility
Public Safety Public Safety
Noise Public Safety
Housing Housing
Economic Development
Environmental Justice
3.5.2 LAND USE DESIGNATIONS
The General Plan Land Use Map identifies land use designations for each parcel within the Study Area (Figure 3-4). The Land Use Element of the General Plan Update defines various land use designations by their allowable uses and maximum and minimum development densities and intensities. Table 3-2, Proposed General Plan Land Use Designations, summarizes land uses included in the General Plan Update.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1895 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 3-8 Project Description Table 3-2
Proposed General Plan Land Use Designations
General Plan Land Use Designations Acres % of Total
Acres
Very Low Density Residential (VLDR) 1,073.39 5%
Low Density Residential (LDR) 4,025.06 18%
Medium Density Residential (MDR) 1,365.88 6%
High Density Residential (HDR) 854.422 4%
Very High Density Residential (VHDR) 41.27 <1%
Commercial I 1,225.23 5%
Business Park (BP) 726.69 3%
Industrial (I) 372.16 2%
Public Institution (PI) 1,392.81 6%
Open Space (OS) 6,188.89 27%
Parks (P) 175.46 1%
Specific Plan (SP) 1,529.75 7%
Mixed Use (MU) 871.21 4%
Downtown Village (DV) 59.85 <1%
Water Source/River 1,157.3 5%
Right-of-Way 1,736.32 8%
Total 22,795.69 100%
Table 3-3, General Plan Land Use Designations Comparisons by Acres, summarizes the changes in land acreage by land use designation between the 2006 General Plan and the General Plan Update.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1896 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1897 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1898 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 3-11 Project Description The following describes the proposed land use designations for the General Plan Update.
Residential Land Use Designations
Very Low Density Residential (VLDR); 0-2 du/ac
The Very Low Density Residential land use designation provides for the development of very low density single-family dwellings at a density of up to 2 dwelling units per gross acre of land. This designation is generally most suitable in rural areas and areas where scenic and natural resources should be protected, in areas that consist of small agricultural operations and rural-oriented residences, or where natural hazards limit development potential (such as hillsides).
Low Density Residential (LDR); 2-7 du/ac
The Low Density Residential land use designation provides for the development of low density detached single-family dwellings at a density between 2 and 7 dwelling units per gross acre.
Medium Density Residential (MDR); 5-14 du/ac
The Medium Density Residential land use designation allows for a range of housing types including singlefamily attached and detached units, condominiums, townhouses, and mobile home parks, as well as multiple-family dwellings such as apartments, and senior housing at a density of between 5 and 14 dwelling units per gross acre.
High Density Residential (HDR); 14-22 du/ac
The High Density Residential land use designation provides for a variety of single-family dwelling units and multiple-family dwellings including: garden style units, stacked flats, courtyard homes, patio homes, townhouses, apartments, condominiums, senior housing and mobilehome parks. Project densities between 14 and 22 dwelling units per gross acre allowed.
Very High Density Residential (VHDR); 22-32 du/ac
The Very High Density Residential land use designation provides for the development of a wide range of multiple-family living accommodations, such as townhomes, condominiums, apartments, and senior housing. Project densities between 22 and 32 dwelling units per gross acre are allowed.
Non-Residential Land Use Designations
Commercial (C); Maximum FAR 0.50
The Commercial land use designation provides for a variety of retail and service-oriented business activities, including both small and large scale commercial development with retail, entertainment, and/or service uses. This designation allows for uses such as hotels, auto sales, auto repair, auto repair related Uses such as offices, and others that are
determined to be employment generators and compatible with commercial uses may also be allowed.
The maximum intensity of development is a floor area ratio (FAR) of 0.50.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1899 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 3-12 Project Description Business Park (BP); Maximum FAR 1.0
The Business Park designation provides for employment and community serving uses including singletenant and multi-tenant configurations. Also included are small convenience or service commercial activities intended to meet the needs of the nearby business community. Other uses that are determined to be compatible with the primary uses may also be allowed. The maximum intensity of development is a floor area ratio (FAR) of 1.0.
Industrial (I); Maximum FAR 0.50
The Industrial designation allows for a variety of industrial and manufacturing activities that do not generate significant amounts of pollution, including limited regional and sub-regional commercial activities that are non- or low-polluting and which can co-exist compatibly with surrounding land uses.
Other uses that are determined to be compatible with primary uses may also be allowed. The maximum intensity of development is a floor area ratio (FAR) of 0.50.
Public Institution (PI); Maximum FAR 0.50
The Public Institutional designation provides for publicly owned properties and facilities including, schools, fire stations, police stations, community centers, utility substations, water facilities, administrative offices and City government office complexes. Other uses that are determined to be compatible with primary uses may also be allowed. The maximum intensity of development is a floor area ratio (FAR) of 0.50.
Open Space (OS); Maximum 0.025 du/ac and Maximum FAR 0.15 The Open Space designation allows for: open space areas; hiking, biking and equestrian trails; and outdoor recreational facilities, including golf courses, swimming schools, tennis clubs, equestrian clubs and caretaker facilities. The OS designation also allows for passive and active recreation sites operated by the City and regional agencies. Parks may include areas for active sports play, including large multipurpose fields for community events and informal recreation, sports fields and courts, concessions, tot lots, picnic areas, and support facilities. This designation provides for the conservation of natural and scenic resources and the protection of property from natural hazards.
Uses such as extremely low density single-family dwellings, and other uses that are compatible with and oriented toward preserving open space may also be allowed. The maximum allowable density is 1 unit per 40 acres. The maximum intensity of development is a floor area ratio (FAR) of 0.15.
Parks (P); No development potential
The Park designation allows for passive and active recreation sites operated by the City and regional agencies. Parks may include areas for active sports play, including large multipurpose fields for community events and informal recreation, sports fields and courts, concessions, tot lots, picnic areas, community centers, and support facilities. No development potential is allowed within the Park designation.
Water (W); No development potential
The Water designation recognizes the natural waterways in San Jacinto. No development potential is allowed within the Water designation.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1900 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 3-13 Project Description Mixed-Use Land Use Designations
Mixed Use (MU): 10.1-36 du/ac and Maximum FAR 1.0
The Mixed Use designation provides opportunities for mixtures of commercial, office, and residential uses in the same building, on the same parcel of land, or within the same area.
Mixed-use areas offer opportunities for people to live, work, shop, and recreate without having to use cars. This designation allows for vertical integration of compatible uses, whereby such uses share the same building or lot, or horizontal integration of uses, where compatible uses are located next to each other.
Single-use projects are allowed; stand-alone residential projects should be located in proximity to existing or future nonresidential development.
The Mixed Use designation allows residential densities between 10 and 36 dwelling units per gross acre and a floor area ratio (FAR) of up to 1.0. For projects which include residential and nonresidential components, the density requirements shall apply to the residential component and the FAR shall apply to the nonresidential component. Mixed-use projects that include both residential and non-residential uses may include both, between 10.1 and 36 dwelling units per gross acres and up to 1.0 FAR for nonresidential components.
Downtown Village (DV): 0-40 du/ac Maximum and Maximum FAR 2.0 The Downtown Village land use designation allows for a variety of commercial uses with a strong -town character. Development in these
areas will be subject to additional design and development standards intended to support the Downtown area.
Mixed commercial, office, and residential development (residential uses above or beside commercial uses) is also permitted in the DV designation. Single-use projects are allowed; stand-alone residential projects should be located in proximity to existing or future nonresidential development.
The Downtown Village designation allows residential densities up to 40 dwelling units per gross acre and non-residential developments with a floor area ratio (FAR) of up to 2.0. For projects which include residential and nonresidential components, the density requirements shall apply to the residential component and the FAR shall apply to the nonresidential component. Mixed-use projects that include both residential and non-residential uses may include both, up to 40 dwelling units per gross acres and up to 2.0 FAR for non-residential components.
Specific Plans
Specific Plan; Densities and Intensities Vary
The Specific Plan designation indicates an adopted Specific Plan for an area, which provides detailed Specific Plans generally consist of a land plan, circulation plan, development standards, design guidelines, and a phasing plan, which set forth detailed implementation programs necessary to serve the development.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1901 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 3-14 Project Description The actual designation of each area will be SP followed by a corresponding number (e.g., SP-1). Land uses within each SP are detailed in the Specific Plan documents (zoning). Amendments to the land use in a Specific Plan will not warrant a revision to the General Plan (General Plan Amendment).
3.5.3 GENERAL PLAN BUILDOUT ANALYSIS
The maximum density or intensity permitted for an individual parcel is controlled by the land use designation, unless a density bonus pursuant to San Jacinto Municipal Code Chapter 17.310, Affordable Housing Density Bonus applies. In addition to the land use designation, development of a parcel is influenced by a variety of factors including the physical characteristics of a parcel, compatibility with nearby uses, access and infrastructure limitations, market factors, and previous developments trends.
While no specific development projects are proposed as part of the San Jacinto General Plan Update, the General Plan Update will accommodate future growth in San Jacinto, including new businesses, expansion of existing businesses, and new residential uses. The buildout analysis assumes a 20-year planning horizon (the level of development that could reasonably be expected by the year 2040), while the year 2060 is assumed to be the full buildout year of the General Plan (the point at which all parcels in the City are developed according to their General Plan land use designation). The 20-year planning horizon (2040) represents approximately 50 percent of total buildout; this expected pace of growth is based on historical development patterns in and around San Jacinto and development trends projected for Western Riverside County.
Table 3-4, General Plan 2040 Buildout by Land Use Designation, provides a statistical summary of the buildout potential associated with the Proposed Land Use Map in 2040, compared to existing on-theground conditions by General Plan Update Land Use Designation.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1902 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1903 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1904 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 3-17 Project Description For each environmental issue addressed in Section 5.0, Environmental Analysis, the analysis of the General Plan Update is based on various assumptions regarding existing and future conditions in San Jacinto.
Unless otherwise stated, the assumptions are as specified in Table 3-5, General Plan Update Growth Assumptions, which are based on the General Plan 2040 Buildout shown in Table 3-4.
Table 3-5
General Plan Update Growth Assumptions
Description Housing Units Population
Non-Residential
Development
(Square Feet)
Jobs
Existing Conditions (2020) 15,830 52,872 2,573,593 7,312 2040 General Plan 32,081 107,152 24,413,227 26,986
Net Change +16,252 +54,280 +21,839,634 +19,674
3.6 USE OF THE EIR AND REQUIRED AGENCY APPROVALS
This EIR may be used for the following direct and indirect approvals and permits associated with adoption and implementation of the General Plan Update.
3.6.1 CITY OF SAN JACINTO
The City of San Jacinto is the lead agency for the proposed Project. The City of San Jacinto General Plan Update will be presented to the Planning Commission for review and recommendation and to the City Council for comment, review, and consideration for adoption. The City Council has the sole discretionary authority to approve and adopt the General Plan Update. In order to approve the proposed project, the City Council would consider the following actions:
Certification of the General Plan EIR;
Adoption of required CEQA findings and Statement of Overriding Considerations for the above action;
Adoption of a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program; and Approval of the General Plan Update.
3.6.2 SUBSEQUENT USES OF THE EIR
This EIR provides a review of environmental effects associated with implementation of the proposed General Plan Update. When considering approval of subsequent activities under the proposed General Plan Update, the City of San Jacinto would utilize this EIR as the basis in determining potential environmental effects and the appropriate level of environmental review, is any, of a subsequent activity.
Projects or activities successive to this EIR may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Approval and funding of major projects and capital improvements;
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1905 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 3-18 Project Description Future Specific Plan, Planned Unit Development, or Master Plan approvals; Revisions to the San Jacinto Municipal Code (Title 8 Health and Safety, Title 16 Subdivisions, and Title 17 Zoning) Update
Development plan approvals, such as tentative subdivision maps, variances, conditional use permits, and other land use permits;
Development Agreements;
Property rezoning consistent with the General Plan;
Permit issuances and other approvals necessary for public and private development projects; and Issuance of permits and other approvals necessary for implementation of the General Plan.
3.6.3 OTHER GOVERNMENT AGENCY APPROVALS
The 2021-2028 Housing Element must be referred to the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) for a determination of consistency with State housing law.
Subsequent projects and other actions to support implementation of the General Plan Update would require actions, including permits and approvals, by other public agencies that may include, but are not necessarily limited to:
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) approval of potential future streambed alteration agreements, pursuant to Fish and Game Code. Approval of any future potential take of State-listed wildlife and plant species covered under the California Endangered Species Act.
California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) approval of projects and encroachment permits for projects affecting State highway facilities.
Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) approval for National Pollution Discharge Elimination System compliance, including permits and Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan approval and monitoring.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) approvals involving any future potential take of Federally listed wildlife and plant species and their habitats, pursuant to the Federal Endangered Species Act.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1906 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1907 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1908 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) tS ybri K
evA
t S et atS ml aP
t Stti weH
ev AnoyL
evA nots waC
s onaBs ol oni maC
evAll edO
evA nosr ednaS
dR nerr a W
evA lmaP
t S ai b m
t S ybri K
t S et atS evAnoyL evA nosr ednaS
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1909 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1910 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) tS ybri K evA t S et atS ml aP t Stti weH ev AnoyL evA nots waC s onaBs ol oni maC evAll edO ev A nosr ednaS dR nerr a W evA ml aP t S ai b m t S ybri K t S et atS ev AnoyL evA nosr ednaS ver
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1911 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1912 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) tS ybri K
evA
t S et atS ml aP
t Stti weH
ev AnoyL
evA nots waC
s onaBs ol oni maC
evAll edO
evA nosr ednaS
dR nerr a W
evA lmaP
t S ai b m
t S ybri K
t S et atS evAnoyL evA nosr ednaS
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1913 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1914 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 4-1 Basis of Cumulative Analysis
4.0 BASIS OF CUMULATIVE ANALYSIS
4.1 INTRODUCTION
This section analyzes potential impacts resulting from reasonably foreseeable growth, including the San Jacinto General Plan Update (General Plan Update).
CEQA Guidelines Section 15355
when considered together, are considerable or which compound or increase other environmental impacts adequate discussion of cumulative impacts, as
noted in Sections 15130(b) through 15130(e) of the CEQA Guidelines:
(b) The discussion of cumulative impacts shall reflect the severity of the impacts and their likelihood of occurrence, but the discussion need not provide as great detail as is provided for the effects attributable to the project alone. The discussion should be guided by standards of practicality and reasonableness, and should focus on the cumulative impact to which the identified other projects contribute rather than the attributes of other projects which do not contribute to the cumulative impact. The following elements are necessary to an adequate discussion of significant cumulative impacts:
(1) Either:
(A) A list of past, present, and probable future projects producing related or cumulative impacts, including, if necessary, those projects outside the control of the agency; or, (B) A summary of projections contained in an adopted local, regional or statewide plan, or related planning document, that describes or evaluates conditions contributing to the cumulative effect. Such plans may include: a general plan, regional transportation plan, or plans for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. A summary of projections may also be contained in an adopted or certified prior environmental document for such a plan.
Such projections may be supplemented with additional information such as a regional modeling program. Any such document shall be referenced and made available to the public at a location specified by the lead agency.
(2) When utilizing a list, as suggested in paragraph (1) of subdivision (b), factors to consider when determining whether to include a related project should include the nature of each environmental resource being examined, the location of the project and its type. Location may be important, for example, when water quality impacts are at issue since projects outside the watershed would probably not contribute to a cumulative effect. Project type may be important, for example, when the impact is specialized, such as a particular air pollutant or mode of traffic. (3) Lead agencies should define the geographic scope of the area affected by the cumulative effect and provide a reasonable explanation for the geographic limitation used.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1915 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 4-2 Basis of Cumulative Analysis (4) A summary of the expected environmental effects to be produced by those projects with specific reference to additional information stating where that information is available; and (5) A reasonable analysis of the cumulative impacts of the relevant projects. An EIR shall examine reasonable, feasible options for mitigating or avoiding the project's contribution to any significant cumulative effects.
(c) With some projects, the only feasible mitigation for cumulative impacts may involve the adoption of ordinances or regulations rather than the imposition of conditions on a project-by-project basis. (d) Previously approved land use documents such as general plans, specific plans, and regional transportation plans may be used in cumulative impact analysis. A pertinent discussion of cumulative impacts contained in one or more previously certified EIRs may be incorporated by reference pursuant to the provisions for tiering and program EIRs. No further cumulative impacts analysis is required when a project is consistent with a general, specific, master or comparable programmatic plan where the lead agency determines that the regional or areawide cumulative impacts of the proposed project have already been adequately addressed, as defined in section 15152(f), in a certified EIR for that plan. (e) If a cumulative impact was adequately addressed in a prior EIR for a community plan, zoning action, or general plan, and the project is consistent with that plan or action, then an EIR for such a project should not further analyze that cumulative impact, as provided in Section 15183(j).
4.2 CUMULATIVE ANALYSIS IN THIS EIR
Cumulative impacts may be discussed in terms of impacts resulting from the General Plan Update, in combination with impacts anticipated for future development (including approved and planned development within the Study Area and surrounding affected area), and impacts associated with growth within the greater region. The geographic area for each impact varies, depending on the nature of the impact, whether it is regional, such as air quality or greenhouse gas emissions, or local, such as noise or aesthetics.
Quantification can pose as a challenge for cumulative impacts, as it requires speculative estimates of impacts including, but not limited to the following: the geographic diversity of impacts (impacts of future development may affect different areas); variations in time of impacts; and data for buildout projections may change following subsequent approvals. However, every attempt has been made herein to make sound qualitative judgments of the combined effects of, and relationship between, land uses and potential environmental impacts.
This EIR assesses the overall environmental effects of the General Plan Update at a program level of detail.
This EIR evaluates the overall (cumulative) effects of development in accordance with the community development types, land use assumptions, and all goals and policies contained in the General Plan Update.
The environmental analyses in Sections 5.1 through 5.20 of this EIR consider Project impacts in combination with regional impacts, where applicable, that could be expected as other cities within the Inland Empire region approach 2040.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1916 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 4-3 Basis of Cumulative Analysis In compliance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15130(1)(b), this section of the EIR describes the environmental effects of the General Plan Update in combination with the effects of regional growth, as forecasted in the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Regional Transportation egional Council on September 3, 2020. It is
important to note that the SCAG projections, which are compiled using a number of sources including adopted plans, historical trends, and interviews with local jurisdictions, tend to be more accurate on a regional level than on a local or city level. It is likely that through a combination of market changes, catalytic projects, updated land use direction in the General Plan Update, and other factors, San Jacinto could capture either more or less of expected regional growth than forecasted by SCAG.
Table 4.1, Riverside County Growth Projections, summarizes household, population, and employment growth forecasts for the County. While the Project considers growth patterns for the year 2040, SCAG forecasts growth for the year 2045; while slightly different end dates, projections is helpful because it demonstrates the overall direction of growth the region is moving towards. As shown in Table 4-1, SCAG forecasts Riverside 3,252,000 persons by 2045, an increase of approximately 30 percent over the existing 2020 population estimate of 2,493,000 persons. The number of households in the Riverside County region is projected to increase from approximately 785,000 households in 2020 to 1,086,000 households in 2045. Employment numbers are forecasted to increase from approximately 823,000 jobs in 2020 to 1,103,000 jobs in 2045 within the County. Section 5.14, Population and Housing, further elaborates on projected growth assumptions within the Study Area as well as within the Inland Empire region.
Table 4-1
Riverside County Growth Projections
Description Population Households Jobs
(Employment)
Existing Conditions (2020) 2,493,000 785,000 823,000
SCAG 2045 Forecasts 3,252,000 1,086,000 1,103,000
2045 SCAG: Existing Conditions Difference 759,000 301,000 280,000 2045 SCAG: Existing Conditions % Difference 30.4% 38.3% 34.0% Source: Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), Connect SoCal, Current Context Demographics and Growth Forecast, Table 13 (County Forecast of Population, Households, and Employment), September 2020.
As indicated in Section 3.0, Project Description, the City is forecast to have approximately 32,081 housing units by 2040 buildout, which would result in an approximate population of 107,152 persons. Therefore, the General Plan Update would facilitate the addition of 16,252 housing units through 2040 and would result in a population growth of approximately 54,280 persons in the City.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1917 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 4-4 Basis of Cumulative Analysis This page intentionally left blank.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1918 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.1-1 Aesthetics
5.1 AESTHETICS
5.1.1 PURPOSE
This section identifies the existing aesthetic and light/glare conditions withing the Study Area and provides an analysis of potential impacts associated with implementation of the General Plan Update. Potential impacts are identified and mitigation measures to address potentially significant impacts are recommended, as necessary.
Because of its inherent subjectivity, difficulties arise in the evaluation of visual quality and the degree of impact that may result from visual change. Additionally, there are limited objectives or quantitative standards to analyze visual quality and individuals respond differently to changes in the visual environment. What may be considered an adverse visual condition to one person may represent an improved visual condition to another.
CONCEPTS AND TERMINOLOGY
When viewing the same landscape, people may have different responses to that landscape and any proposed visual changes, based upon their values, familiarity, concern, or expectations for that landscape visual changes to that landscape inherently affect viewers differently. However, generalizations can be made about viewer sensitivity to scenic quality and visual changes. The visual sensitivity of a landscape is affected by the viewing distances at which it is seen, such as close-up or far away. The visual sensitivity of a landscape also is affected by the travel speed at which a person is viewing the landscape (high speeds on a highway, low speeds on a hiking trail, or stationary at a residence).
The same feature of a project can be perceived differently by people depending on the distance between the observer and the viewed object. When a viewer is closer to a viewed object in the landscape, more detail can be seen, and there is greater potential influence of the object on visual quality because of its form or scale (relative size of the object in relation to the viewer). When the same object is viewed at background distances, details may be imperceptible but overall forms of terrain and vegetation are evident, and the horizon and skyline are dominant. In the middle-ground, some detail is evident (e.g., the foreground), and landscape elements are seen in context with landforms and vegetation patterns (e.g., the background).
The following terms and concepts are used in this EIR section:
Scenic vista. An area that is designated, signed, and accessible to the public for the express purposes of viewing and sightseeing. This includes any such areas designated by a federal, State, or local agency.
Scenic highway. Any stretch of public roadway that is designated as a scenic corridor by a federal, State, or local agency.
Sensitive receptors. Viewer responses to visual settings are inferred from a variety of factors, including distance, viewing angle, types of viewers, number of viewers, duration of view, and
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1919 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.1-2 Aesthetics
viewer activities. The viewer type and associated viewer sensitivity are distinguished among project viewers in recreational, residential, commercial, military, and industrial areas. Viewer activities can range from a circumstance that encourages a viewer to observe the surroundings more closely (such as recreational activities) to one that discourages close observation (such as commuting in heavy traffic). Viewers in recreational areas are considered to have high sensitivity to visual resources. Residential viewers generally have moderate sensitivity but extended viewing periods. Viewers in commercial, military, and industrial areas are considered to have low sensitivity.
Viewshed. The viewshed for a project is defined as the surrounding geographic area from which the project is likely to be seen, based on topography, atmospheric conditions, land use patterns, and roadway orientations.
Visual character typically consists of the landforms, vegetation, water features, and cultural typically include open space, landscaped corridors, and viewsheds. Visual character is influenced by many different landscape attributes including color contrasts, landform prominence, repetition of geometric forms, and uniqueness of textures among other characteristics.
Light and Glare. Lighting effects are associated with the use of artificial light during the evening and nighttime hours. There are two primary sources of light: light emanating from building interiors passing through windows and light from exterior sources (i.e., street lighting, building illumination, security lighting, parking lot lighting, landscape lighting, and signage). Light introduction can be a nuisance. Uses such as residences and hotels are considered light sensitive, since occupants have expectations of privacy during evening hours and may be subject to disturbance by bright light sources. Light spill is typically defined as the presence of unwanted light on properties adjacent to the property being illuminated. With respect to lighting, the degree of illumination may vary widely depending on the amount of light generated, height of the light source, presence of barriers or obstructions, type of light source, and weather conditions.
Glare is primarily a daytime occurrence caused by the reflection of sunlight or artificial light on highly polished surfaces such as window glass or reflective materials and, to a lesser degree, from broad expanses of light-colored surfaces. Perceived glare is the unwanted and potentially objectionable sensation as observed by a person as they look directly into the light source of a luminaire. Daytime glare generation is common in urban areas and is typically associated with buildings with exterior facades largely or entirely comprised of highly reflective glass. Glare can also be produced during evening and nighttime hours by the reflection of artificial light sources such as automobile headlights. Glare generation is typically related to either moving vehicles or sun angles, although glare resulting from reflected sunlight can occur regularly at certain times of the year. Glare-sensitive uses include residences, hotels, transportation corridors, and aircraft landing corridors.
5.1.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING
The City of San Jacinto and the surrounding areas possess numerous visual resources that contribute to Many scenic resources are found in the natural areas surrounding the City, while within San Jacinto visual resources include natural parks and trails, as well as defining visual elements including trees, landscaping, and structures.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1920 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.1-3 Aesthetics
SCENIC VISTAS
San Jacinto is located in eastern and northern borders are largely defined by steep sloping hillsides and ridgelines associated with the San Jacinto Mountain Range. the valley along the foothills of the San Jacinto Mountains, provide it with scenic vistas throughout the City. The summit of Mount San Jacinto is the highest point in the r sub-alpine forests provide a scenic backdrop for San Jacinto. Scenic resources include the Lakeview Mountains to the west, the San Jacinto Mountain foothills to the northeast, and the San Timoteo badlands to the northwest. Other features that contribute to the character of San Jacinto include public parks and open space, the density and distribution of existing development, architecture of the built environment, and the overall agricultural heritage of the area.
SCENIC HIGHWAYS
There are no Eligible or Designated State Scenic Highways within the Study Area. The nearest officially designated State Scenic Highway is State Route 243, located approximately nine miles east of the Study Area. The nearest Eligible State Route Scenic Highway is State Route 74, located approximately 1.8 miles south of the Study Area.
The County of Riverside General Plan Land Use Element and Circulation Element officially recognizes several county roadways as County Eligible Scenic Highways. Within the Study Area, County Eligible Scenic Highways include Ramona Expressway, Lake Park Drive, and Soboba Road/Gilman Springs Road. These are not officially Designated County Scenic Highways according to the State of California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) (Caltrans 2021).
LIGHT & GLARE
Sensitive light and glare receptors in and around the City are generally represented by residential uses, natural wildlife habitat areas, and open space lands adjacent to existing or planned development.
During the day, sunlight reflecting from structures is a primary source of glare, while nighttime light and glare can be divided into both stationary and mobile sources. Stationary sources of nighttime light include structure illumination, interior lighting, decorative landscape lighting, and streetlights. The principal mobile source of nighttime light and glare is vehicle headlamp illumination. This ambient light environment can be accentuated during periods of low clouds or fog.
The variety of urban land uses in the Study Area are the main source of daytime and nighttime light and glare. They are typified by single and multi-family residences, commercial structures, industrial areas, and streetlights. These areas and their associated human activities (inclusive of vehicular traffic) characterize the existing light and glare environment present during daytime and nighttime hours in the urbanized portions of the Study Area. Areas which are less developed in the Study Area, including the western, northern, and eastern areas are characterized primarily by agricultural and open space uses and lower intensity residential development, and generally have lower levels of ambient nighttime lighting and daytime glare. However, areas along the 79 corridor and in the southern portion of the Study Area generally have more sources of glare.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1921 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.1-4 Aesthetics
Within the City of San Jacinto, existing light sources generally include buildings, recreational facilities (i.e., sports fields), and nighttime safety lighting along roadways and parking lots. Interior light emanating from a structure; exterior light sources (i.e., security lighting); or, lighting to illuminate features for safety or decorative purposes may be visible within the existing landscape.
Sunlight reflecting off a reflective surface can result in glare effects and unsafe visual conditions that may interfere with the vision of motorists operating vehicles in the area or that may otherwise generally degrade scenic views. Few structures within the Study Area exhibit highly reflective materials (i.e., taller buildings with extensive glazing), and therefore, potential glare effects are not considered to be of major concern under existing conditions.
5.1.3 REGULATORY SETTING
STATE
California Scenic Highways and Historic Parkways Program The California Scenic Highways and Historic Parkways Program was created in 1963 to preserve and protect highway corridors located in areas of outstanding natural beauty from changes that would diminish the aesthetic value of the adjacent lands. Caltrans maintains its State Scenic Highways and Historic Parkways Program, through which segments of the State highway system are designated as being of particular scenic value or interest. A highway may be designated scenic depending upon how much of the natural landscape can be seen by travelers, the scenic quality of the landscape, and the extent to byways, and parkways are eligible for designation or for recognition as eligible for designation. The Program is governed by the regulations found in the California Streets and Highways Code, Section 260 et seq.
California Streets and Highway Code Section 261 requires local government agencies to take the following actions to protect the scenic appearance of the scenic corridor:
Regulate land use and density of development;
Provide detailed land and site planning;
Prohibit offsite outdoor advertising and control of on-site outdoor advertising; Pay careful attention to and control of earthmoving and landscaping; and Scrutinize the design and appearance of structures and equipment.
California Streets and Highway Code Section 263 allows the California State Legislature the authority to identify highways as eligible for designation as a scenic highway. The government with jurisdiction over opment, outdoor advertising, and earthmoving activities along the affected segment meets established criteria for the roadway or segment to be designated as scenic.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1922 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.1-5 Aesthetics
California Building Standards Code
Title 24 of the California Building Standards Code serves as the basis for the design and construction of buildings in California. In addition to safety, sustainability, new technology and reliability, the California Building Standards Code addresses light pollution and glare hazards through the establishment of maximum allowable backlight, up light, and glare (BUG) ratings.
LOCAL
County of Riverside General Plan
The County of Riverside General Plan identifies the importance of the C natural visual resources, including low-lying valleys, mountain ranges, rock formations, rivers, and lakes, and acknowledges that views of these features are frequently experienced by travelers along the C roadways. The San Jacinto Valley Area Plan of the County General Plan addresses the areas of the County that wrap around Due to the visual
significance of these scenic corridors, several roadways have been officially recognized as either State or County designated or eligible scenic highways. Within the San Jacinto Valley Area Plan, Ramona Expressway, Gilman Springs Road, State Route 79, and Soboba Road are identified as County Eligible Scenic Highways in San Jacinto Valley (County of Riverside 2016). Although not within the Study Area, State Route 74 (Florida Avenue), as it passes east to west through Hemet, is considered a State Eligible Scenic Highway. These highways traverse urban and rural land, providing scenic views of the San Jacinto Valley. The County General Plan addresses the regulation of scenic corridors through managed development along scenic highways. More specifically, the Circulation, Land Use, and Multipurpose Open Space elements identify the following policies concerning scenic highways:
LU 14.3 Ensure that the design and appearance of new landscaping, structures, equipment, signs, or grading within Designated and Eligible State and County scenic highway corridors are compatible with the surrounding scenic setting or environment.
LU 14.4 Maintain an appropriate setback from the edge of the right-of way for new development adjacent to Designated and Eligible State and County Scenic Highways based on local surrounding development, topography, and other conditions.
LU 14.5 Require new or relocated electric or communication distribution lines, which would be visible from Designated and Eligible State and County Scenic Highways, to be placed underground.
LU 14.6 Prohibit offsite outdoor advertising displays that are visible from Designated and Eligible State and County Scenic Highways.
LU 14.7 Require that the size, height, and type of on-premises signs visible from Designated and Eligible State and County Scenic Highways be the minimum necessary for identification. The design, materials, color, and location of the signs shall blend with the environment, utilizing natural materials where possible.
C 19.1 Preserve scenic routes that have exceptional or unique visual features in accordance with OS 22.1 Design developments within designated scenic highway corridors to balance the objectives of maintaining scenic resources with accommodating compatible land uses.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1923 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.1-6 Aesthetics
OS 22.2 Study potential scenic highway corridors for possible inclusion in the Caltrans Scenic Highways Plan.
OS 22.3 Encourage joint efforts among federal, state, and county agencies, and citizen groups to ensure compatible development within scenic corridors.
OS 22.4 Impose conditions on development within scenic highway corridors requiring dedication of scenic easements consistent with the Scenic Highways Plan, when it is necessary to preserve unique or special visual features.
OS 22.5 Utilize contour grading and slope rounding to gradually transition graded road slopes into a natural configuration consistent with the topography of the areas within scenic highway corridors.
County of Riverside Ordinance 655
of certain light fixtures emitting into the night sky undesirable light rays which have a detrimental effect on astronomical observation and research. Ordinance 655 defines the zones where light pollution could impact Palomar Observatory: Zone A is within 15 miles; Zone B is between 15 and 45 miles of the observatory. The Study Area is approximately 30 miles from the Palomar Observatory in Zone B.
City of San Jacinto Municipal Code
Title 17 of the City of San Jacinto Municipal Code, also known as the San Jacinto Development Code (SJDC), restrict lighting. The SJDC implements the General Plan goals and policies by classifying and regulating the specific uses of land and structures within the City. Article 2, Zones, Allowable Land Uses, and Zone-Specific Standards, of the SJDC establishes development standards that include, but are not limited to:
Minimum lot size;
Maximum lot coverage;
Maximum building height;
Building setbacks;
Parking and garage/carport placement;
Landscaping and screening requirements; and
Lighting requirements.
SJDC Section 17.300.080, Outdoor Light and Glare, regulates light and glare by providing that exterior lights be shielded or modified, and located so as to eliminate spillover illumination or glare onto adjoining properties and to prohibit any interference with the normal operation or enjoyment of adjacent property.
SJDC Section 17.330.080, Parking Design and Development Standards, provides lighting requirements for parking areas. These include requirements that parking area light standards have a maximum height of 25 feet as measured from the usable parking or driving surface, and that illumination of parking lots and adjacent pedestrian areas does not exceed one-half foot-candle along lot lines of a project.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1924 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.1-7 Aesthetics
SJDC Chapter 17.630, Site Plan and Design Review, requires site plan and design review for the construction of any structure, or to relocate, rebuild, or significantly enlarge or modify any existing structure or site. The reviewing body reviews the location, design, site plan configuration and the effect of the proposed development on adjacent properties by comparing the project plans to established development standards, regulations, and applicable design guidelines/policies. Criteria to be considered includes efficiency of site layout and design, compatibility in scale and aesthetic treatment of proposed structures with public areas, and consistency with design guidelines/standards, the General Plan, or any other applicable specific plan.
SJDC Chapter 17.510, Historic Preservation, provides guidelines to assist in the identification and preservation of historic and cultural resources within the City. Further, it establishes the San Jacinto Register of Historic Resources contains the name, location, pertinent historic data, and date of entry on the register of structures, or natural or manmade features receiving a Historic Resource designation.
SJDC Section 17.600.090, Environmental Review, requires development projects to be reviewed for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) prior to development of the subject site.
San Jacinto Municipal Code Chapter 15.28, Hillside Development, regulates development of hillside areas by relating the number and distribution of dwelling units and other buildings to the topography to prevent disfigurement of the terrain through extensive cut and fill.
City of San Jacinto Landscape Design Guidelines
Adopted in 2005, the City of San Jacinto Landscape Design Guidelines establish standards for the design and development of landscape within the City for all project types, including streetscapes, parks and recreational facilities, open spaces, residences, and commercial/industrial facilities. The Landscape Design Guidelines require City approval of landscape plans prior to development in order to maintain community resources.
5.1.4 SIGNIFICANCE CRITERIA AND THRESHOLDS
Appendix G of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines contains the Initial Study Environmental Checklist, which includes questions related to aesthetics and light/glare. The issues presented in the Initial Study Environmental Checklist have been utilized as thresholds of significance in this section. Accordingly, a project may create a significant environmental impact if it would:
Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista;
Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a State scenic highway;
In non-urbanized areas, substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of public views of the site and its surroundings and/or in an urbanized area, conflict with applicable zoning and other regulations governing scenic quality; and/or
Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1925 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.1 8 Aesthetics
5.1.5 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
AES 1: Would the project have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? Impact Analysis: The Study Area is surrounded by mountain and hillside terrain that offer scenic vistas, the view of which are available throughout the Study Area and major roadways. Scenic resources include the Lakeview Mountains to the west, the San Jacinto Mountain foothills to the northeast, and the San Timoteo badlands to the northwest.
Implementation of the Project would result in new development and intensification of existing urban uses throughout the Study Area that may detract from the existing scenic vistas. However, as shown in Figure 3 3, Existing General Plan Land Use Map, and Figure 3 4, General Plan Update Land Use Map, the General Plan Update Land Use Map would maintain existing designated Open Space areas in the San Jacinto Mountain foothills to the northeast and Lakeview Mountains to the west. Further, SJDC Article 2, Zones, Allowable Land Uses, and Zone Specific Standards, would regulate maximum building height, building setbacks, building type and intensity, and other development characteristics in place in each zoning district to protect scenic vistas within the Study Area.
SJDC Chapter 17.630 provides for project specific design review of future development proposals within City limits, which would ensure that development pursuant to the General Plan Update is attractive and cohesive without diminishing the quality of the natural beauty of the general vicinity. Design review would be required for the construction of any structure, or to relocate, rebuild, or significantly enlarge or modify any existing structure or site within the City. Criteria to be considered includes efficiency of site layout and design, compatibility in scale and aesthetic treatment of proposed structures with public areas, and consistency with design guidelines/standards, the General Plan, or any other applicable specific plan.
Additionally, San Jacinto Municipal Code Chapter 15.28, Hillside Development, regulates development of hillside areas by relating the number and distribution of dwelling units and other buildings to the topography to prevent disfigurement of the terrain through extensive cut and fill. Accordingly, projects which may impact views of ridgelines would be given particular attention. Future development within the Citys SOI that is under the Countys land use control would be subject to the Countys entitlement requirements, regulations, and design review process. Furthermore, the General Plan Update goals, policies, and actions are intended to ensure that urbanization of the Study Area would not result in substantial adverse effects on a scenic vista. For example, Policy LU 3.1 ensures the compatibility of new development with surrounding uses and the ability of new development to enhance the character of the surrounding area. Policy LU 5.3 identifies and preserves the positive characteristics and features of a site, such as viewsheds, heritage trees, and rock outcroppings, during the design and development of new projects. Policy RM 1.1 supports a balanced and integrated system of open space that reflects aesthetics and community identity considerations. Policy RM 1.2 preserves scenic resources in San Jacinto, including mature trees, rock outcroppings, hillsides, ridgelines, and other prominent natural landforms. Policy RM
1.5 requires orderly development of hillside areas through compliance with the Citys Hillside Development Ordinance. Action RM 1e retains the significant hillsides and ridgelines on San Jacintos eastern and western borders as Open Space, allowing areas of non intensive development on the more gently sloped areas at the base of the eastern and western hillsides. Action RM 1h directs the City to identify local scenic routes and vistas and explore developing guidelines for development visible from
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1926 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.1-9 Aesthetics
these scenic routes to minimize impacts to scenic vistas. Therefore, implementation of the General Plan Update impacts related to having a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista would be less than significant.
Proposed General Plan Update Goals, Policies, and Actions:
LAND USE ELEMENT
Policy LU-2.2: Infill Development. Encourage new development to occur in infill locations in a balanced and efficient pattern that reduces sprawl, preserves open space, and creates convenient connections to other land uses and activity centers.
Policy LU-3.1 Surrounding Uses. Consider as part of the development review process the compatibility of new development with surrounding uses and the ability of new development to enhance the character of the surrounding area.
Policy LU-3.7: Hillside Development. Conserve hillsides by limiting development on slopes greater than 25 percent and allowing unique planning techniques such as Specific Plans, Planned Unit Developments, and clustered development to reduce grading.
Action LU-3b: Through the development review process, evaluate development proposals for land use and transportation network compatibility with existing surrounding or abutting development or neighborhoods.
Action LU-3c: Analyze land use compatibility through the development review process to require adequate buffers and/or architectural enhancements that protect sensitive receptors from intrusion of development activities that may cause unwanted nuisances and health risks.
Action LU-3e: During both redevelopment and the development of new projects, encourage the provision and maintenance of setbacks and buffers, such as roadways, topographic features, and open space, to prevent incompatibilities between agricultural and nonagricultural land uses.
Policy LU-5.1: Design Features. Enhance the City's identity with attractive high-quality gateways, city entry signs and design features, cohesive street signs, and other design features at public gathering spaces and other areas, where appropriate.
Policy LU-5.2: Standards and Guidelines. Develop and enforce development standards and objective design guidelines that provide clear direction for achieving quality community design in new development and redevelopment projects.
Policy LU-5.3: Site Planning. Identify and preserve, as feasible, the positive characteristics and features of a site, such as viewsheds, heritage trees, and rock outcroppings, during the design and development of new projects.
Policy LU-5.5: Sustainable Design.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1927 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.1-10 Aesthetics
Policy LU-5.7: Landscaping. Use landscaping for screening, solar control, parking lot shade, and other beautification purposes throughout the City.
Policy LU-5.8: Streetscapes. Promote drought tolerant landscaping, tree planting, and tree preservation along City streets as a means of improving aesthetics, making neighborhoods more pedestrian-friendly, and providing environmental and economic benefits.
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ELEMENT
Policy RM-1.1: Balanced Open Space System. Support a balanced and integrated open space system that reflects a variety of considerations, including resource conservation, recreation, aesthetics, and community identity.
Policy RM-1.2: Scenic Resources.
mature trees, rock outcroppings, hillsides, ridgelines, and other prominent natural landforms, to the extent practical.
Policy RM-1.4: Regional Cooperation. Recognize areas of overlapping jurisdiction with respect to open space and biological resources, such as the County of Riverside Multiple Species Habitat cities, agencies, and Riverside County to protect and maximize regional open space.
Policy RM-1.5: Hillside Development. Require the orderly development of hillside areas through Action RM-1e: For Hillside Development Projects, implement the City's Hillside Development Standards borders as Open Space, allowing areas of non-intensive development on the more gently sloped areas at the base of the eastern and western hillsides.
Action RM-1h: Identify local scenic routes and vistas and explore developing guidelines for development visible from these scenic routes to minimize impacts to scenic vistas.
Policy RM-3.5: Public Art. Promote the use of public art that celebrates the diverse and culturally rich history of San Jacinto at key gateways, major projects, and public gathering places.
Policy RM-7.9: Open Space in Nonresidential Development. Encourage outdoor gathering spaces, such as mini-parks and plazas, be incorporated into nonresidential development to encourage social interaction, create experience-oriented centers, and enhance the visual character of the community.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
Level of Significance: Less Than Significant Impact.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1928 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.1-11 Aesthetics
AES-2: Would the project substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway? Impact Analysis: As discussed in the settings section above, there are no officially designated State Scenic Highways that traverse San Jacinto. The nearest officially designated State Scenic Highway is State Route 243, located approximately nine miles east of the Study Area. The nearest Eligible State Route Scenic Highway is State Route 74, located approximately 1.8 miles south of the Study Area. However, within the Study Area, a segment of Ramona Expressway (from the northwestern San Jacinto City limit to Main Street and Lake Park Drive), Lake Park Drive, and a segment of Soboba Road/Gilman Springs Road (following Soboba Road from Lake Park Drive, which turns into Gilman Springs Road at State Street, and continuing northwest towards Mystic Lake) have been designated by Riverside County as County eligible scenic highways.
Although the General Plan Update does not propose any changes to the highways, future development could occur adjacent to County eligible scenic highways. Future development would be subject to conformance with applicable San Jacinto Municipal Code requirements and be guided by relevant General Plan Update policies, including Policy LU-3.1, which ensures the compatibility of new development with surrounding uses and the ability of new development to enhance the character of the surrounding area. Policy LU-5.3 identifies and preserves the significant features of a site, such as viewsheds, heritage trees, and rock outcroppings, during the design and development of new projects. Policy RM-1.1 supports a balanced and integrated system of open space that reflects aesthetics and community identity considerations. Policy RM-1.2 preserves scenic resources in San Jacinto, including mature trees, rock outcroppings, hillsides, ridgelines, and other prominent natural landforms. Policy RMDevelopment Ordinance. Action RM-1e retains the significant hillsides and ridgelines on San Jacin eastern and western borders as Open Space, allowing areas of non-intensive development on the more gently sloped areas at the base of the eastern and western hillsides. Action RM-1h directs the City to identify local scenic routes and vistas and explore developing guidelines for development visible from these scenic routes to minimize impacts to scenic vistas.
Title 17 of the San Jacinto Municipal Code would regulate maximum building height, building setbacks, parking and garage/carport placement, landscaping and screening requirements, and other development characteristics in place in each zoning districts. In accordance with SJDC Chapter 17.630, project-specific design review of future development proposals within City limits would afford the City the opportunity to consider visual attributes of projects as well as their potential impacts on visual resources and along County eligible scenic highways. Further, future development projects would be reviewed for compliance under idelines. If necessary, mitigation would be recommended to reduce potential impacts to reduce potentially impacts to scenic resources associated with new development.
Special attention would be given to all development proposals that could affect views of, or otherwise alter, ridgelines. Pursuant to SJDC Chapter 17.630, all development located on hillsides having a natural slope gradient of 15 percent or greater is subject to Municipal Code Chapter 15.28, Hillside Development, which regulates development of hillside areas by relating the number and distribution of dwelling units and other buildings to the topography to prevent disfigurement of the terrain through extensive cut and
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1929 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.1-12 Aesthetics
fill. Historic buildings would be preserved as required by federal, State, and local policies, including SJDC Chapter 17.510, which provides guidelines to assist in the identification and preservation of historic and cultural resources within the City. General Plan Update policies provide additional protections for historic buildings, including Policy RM-3.1 which protects areas containing significant historic, archaeological, and paleontologic resources. Policy RM-3.6 identifies, designates, and protects buildings, districts, and sites of historic importance within San Jacinto. Action RM-3a ensures that the City would continue to assess development proposals for potential impacts to sensitive historic, archaeological, and paleontological resources pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Action RM-3b requires that for structures that potentially have historic significance, a study be conducted by a professional archaeologist or historian to determine the actual significance of the structure and potential impacts of the proposed development in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5. Action RM-3o directs the City to conduct a historic properties inventory that takes into consideration buildings, neighborhoods, and other features of historic, architectural, or cultural significance.
Futu
The General Plan Update
goals, policies, and actions described above and the SJDC are intended to ensure that development within the Study Area would not result in substantial damage to scenic resources. Therefore, implementation of the General Plan Update would not significantly impact scenic resources within a State scenic highway and impacts would be less than significant.
Proposed General Plan Update Goals, Policies, and Actions:
LAND USE ELEMENT
Policy LU-2.2: Infill Development. Encourage new development to occur in infill locations in a balanced and efficient pattern that reduces sprawl, preserves open space, and creates convenient connections to other land uses and activity centers.
Policy LU-3.1 Surrounding Uses. Consider as part of the development review process the compatibility of new development with surrounding uses and the ability of new development to enhance the character of the surrounding area.
Policy LU-3.7: Hillside Development. Conserve hillsides by limiting development on slopes greater than 25 percent and allowing unique planning techniques such as Specific Plans, Planned Unit Developments, and clustered development to reduce grading.
Action RM-3a Continue to assess development proposals for potential impacts to sensitive historic, archaeological, and paleontological resources pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
Action LU-3b: Through the development review process, evaluate development proposals for land use and transportation network compatibility with existing surrounding or abutting development or neighborhoods.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1930 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.1-13 Aesthetics
Action LU-3c: Analyze land use compatibility through the development review process to require adequate buffers and/or architectural enhancements that protect sensitive receptors from intrusion of development activities that may cause unwanted nuisances and health risks.
Action LU-3e: During both redevelopment and the development of new projects, encourage the provision and maintenance of setbacks and buffers, such as roadways, topographic features, and open space, to prevent incompatibilities between agricultural and nonagricultural land uses.
Policy LU-5.1: Design Features. Enhance the City's identity with attractive high-quality gateways, city entry signs and design features, cohesive street signs, and other design features at public gathering spaces and other areas, where appropriate.
Policy LU-5.2: Standards and Guidelines. Develop and enforce development standards and objective design guidelines that provide clear direction for achieving quality community design in new development and redevelopment projects.
Policy LU-5.3: Site Planning. Identify and preserve, as feasible, the significant features of a site, such as viewsheds, heritage trees, and rock outcroppings, during the design and development of new projects.
Policy LU-5.5: Sustainable Design.
conserve t
Policy LU-5.7: Landscaping. Use landscaping for screening, solar control, parking lot shade, and other beautification purposes throughout the City.
Policy LU-5.8: Streetscapes. Promote drought tolerant landscaping, tree planting, and tree preservation along City streets as a means of improving aesthetics, making neighborhoods more pedestrian-friendly, and providing environmental and economic benefits.
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ELEMENT
Policy RM-1.1: Balanced Open Space System. Support a balanced and integrated open space system that reflects a variety of considerations, including resource conservation, recreation, aesthetics, and community identity.
Policy RM-1.2: Scenic Resources. resources, including
mature trees, rock outcroppings, hillsides, ridgelines, and other prominent natural landforms, to the extent practical.
Policy RM-1.4: Regional Cooperation. Recognize areas of overlapping jurisdiction with respect to open space and biological resources, such as the County of Riverside Multiple Species Habitat cities, agencies, and Riverside County to protect and maximize regional open space.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1931 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.1-14 Aesthetics
Policy RM-1.5: Hillside Development. Require the orderly development of hillside areas through Action RM-1e: For Hillside Development Projects, implement the City's Hillside Development Standards borders as Open Space, allowing areas of non-intensive development on the more gently sloped areas at the base of the eastern and western hillsides.
Action RM-1h: Identify local scenic routes and vistas and explore developing guidelines for development visible from these scenic routes to minimize impacts to scenic vistas.
Policy RM-3.1: Preservation. Protect areas containing significant historic, archaeological, and paleontologic resources, as defined by the California Public Resources Code.
Policy RM-3.5: Public Art. Promote the use of public art that celebrates the diverse and culturally rich history of San Jacinto at key gateways, major projects, and public gathering places.
Policy RM-3.6: Historic Preservation. Identify, designate, and protect buildings, districts, and sites of historic importance within San Jacinto.
Action RM-3b: For structures that potentially have historic significance, the City shall require that a study be conducted by a professional archaeologist or historian to determine the actual significance of the structure and potential impacts of the proposed development in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5. The City may require modification of the project and/or mitigation measures to avoid any impact to a historic structure, when feasible, such as retaining or rehabilitating historic buildings pursuant to City of San Jacinto guidelines or relocating the historic building as feasible.
Action RM-3o: Conduct a historic properties inventory that takes into consideration buildings, neighborhoods, and other features of historic, architectural, or cultural significance.
Policy RM-7.9: Open Space in Nonresidential Development. Encourage outdoor gathering spaces, such as mini-parks and plazas, be incorporated into nonresidential development to encourage social interaction, create experience-oriented centers, and enhance the visual character of the community.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
Level of Significance: Less Than Significant Impact.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1932 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.1-15 Aesthetics
AES-3: 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?
Impact Analysis:
VISUAL CHARACTER SHORT TERM
Construction activities for future development accommodated through implementation of the General Plan Update could temporarily degrade the visual character and quality of the respective development site and/or its immediate surrounding. Visible features associated with construction activities would include exposed building pads and staging areas for grading, excavation, and construction equipment. In addition, temporary structures could be located on the respective development site during various stages of construction, within materials storage areas, or associated with construction debris piles on site.
Exposed trenches, roadway bedding, spoils/debris piles, and steel plates would be visible during construction of street and utility infrastructure improvements. These materials could temporarily degrade the existing visual character and quality of the respective development sites and surrounding areas.
All construction activities related to the General Plan Update would be temporary in nature and all construction equipment would ultimately be removed from individual project sites following completion of construction activities. Therefore, changes to local visual character and quality associated with construction of future development would be temporary, and impacts would be less than significant.
VISUAL CHARACTER LONG TERM
The General Plan Update would support additional development beyond existing conditions. This development could increase residential densities and non-residential land use intensities in specific areas -term. In general, the General Plan Update Land
Use Element proposes an increase in building density and intensity, in accordance with State and regional housing and climate change goals. For instance, residential land uses increase from a maximum density of 22 dwelling units per acre under the existing 2006 General Plan to a maximum of 32 dwelling units per acre under the General Plan Update. Certain non-residential floor area ratio (FAR) maximums also increase, such as the Business Park designation, which increases from a maximum FAR of 0.35 under the existing 2006 General Plan to a maximum of 1.0 FAR under the General Plan Update. Refer to Section 3.0, Project Description, for a description of land use designations proposed under the General Plan Update.
As shown in Figure 3-3 and Figure 3-4, as part of the General Plan Update, an increase in permissible floor area ratio (FAR) and densities is proposed generally along the following areas:
Along Ramona Expressway, from western City limits to Potter Road, and from North San Jacinto Avenue to Main Street;
The downtown area, generally centered around the intersection of Ramona Boulevard and Main Street; and
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1933 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.1-16 Aesthetics
In the western portion of the City, along Sanderson Avenue and north of Cottonwood Avenue between Warren Road and Sanderson Avenue.
In addition, the General Plan Update introduces the Mixed Use land use designation, which supports a density of 10 to 36 dwelling units per acre (du/ac) and 1.0 FAR, and the Downtown Village land use designation which supports a density of up to 40 du/ac and 2.0 FAR.
The General Plan Update incorporates consistent and compatible development intensities that would maintain and enhance the overall visual character/quality of the Study Area. Specifically, the Land Use Element includes goals and policies, maps, and diagrams to control and direct the general distribution, location, and extent of land uses within the Study Area. For example, Policy LU-3.1 ensures the compatibility of new development with surrounding uses and the ability of new development to enhance the character of the surrounding area. Policy LU-5.3 identifies and preserves the significant features of a site, such as viewsheds, heritage trees, and rock outcroppings, during the design and development of new projects. Policy RM-1.2 preserves scenic resources in San Jacinto, including mature trees, rock outcroppings, hillsides, ridgelines, and other prominent natural landforms. Policy RM-1.5 requires orderly RM-1h directs the City to identify local scenic routes and vistas and explore developing guidelines for development visible from these scenic routes to minimize impacts to scenic vistas. Future growth would largely occur in areas that are already developed, as described above. Additionally, the General Plan Update would maintain existing designated Open Space areas in the San Jacinto Mountain foothills to the northeast and Lakeview Mountains to the west. Policy LU 2.2 would encourage new development to occur in infill locations in a pattern that preserves open space. Policy RM-1.1 supports a balanced and integrated system of open space that reflects aesthetics and community identity considerations. Action RM-1e retains the significant hillsides and ridgelines on
allowing areas of non-intensive development on the more gently sloped areas at the base of the eastern and western hillsides. Guiding future growth and development based on the General Plan Update would ensure future development complements and protects the quality of the existing environment.
All future development would also be subject to conformance with applicable SJDC requirements. SJDC Article 2, Zones, Allowable Land Uses, and Zone-Specific Standards, would regulate maximum building height, building setbacks, parking and garage/carport placement, landscaping and screening long-term visual character. Pursuant to SJDC Chapter 17.630, future development projects would be subject to project-specific design review to ensure compatibility in scale and aesthetic treatment of proposed structures with public areas, and consistency with design guidelines/standards, the General Plan, or any other applicable specific plan (refer to Impact AES-2). Pursuant to SJDC Section 17.600.090, Environmental Review, future land use and development review applications would undergo environmental review on a project-by-project basis prior to consideration by the decision-making authority. If necessary, mitigation would be recommended to reduce potential impacts to a less than significant level.
The implementation of policies and actions contained in the General Plan Update and compliance with the SJDC would ensure that new development in the Study Area would be designed to enhance the visual
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1934 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.1-17 Aesthetics
quality of the area and be visually compatible with existing development and open space resources.
Therefore, implementation of the General Plan Update would not substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of public views or conflict with applicable zoning and other regulations governing scenic quality. Impacts would be less than significant in this regard.
Proposed General Plan Update Goals, Policies, and Actions:
LAND USE ELEMENT
Policy LU-2.2: Infill Development. Encourage new development to occur in infill locations in a balanced and efficient pattern that reduces sprawl, preserves open space, and creates convenient connections to other land uses and activity centers.
Policy LU-3.1 Surrounding Uses. Consider as part of the development review process the compatibility of new development with surrounding uses and the ability of new development to enhance the character of the surrounding area.
Policy LU-3.7: Hillside Development. Conserve hillsides by limiting development on slopes greater than 25 percent and allowing unique planning techniques such as Specific Plans, Planned Unit Developments, and clustered development to reduce grading.
Action LU-3b: Through the development review process, evaluate development proposals for land use and transportation network compatibility with existing surrounding or abutting development or neighborhoods.
Action LU-3c: Analyze land use compatibility through the development review process to require adequate buffers and/or architectural enhancements that protect sensitive receptors from intrusion of development activities that may cause unwanted nuisances and health risks.
Action LU-3e: During both redevelopment and the development of new projects, encourage the provision and maintenance of setbacks and buffers, such as roadways, topographic features, and open space, to prevent incompatibilities between agricultural and nonagricultural land uses.
Policy LU-5.1: Design Features. Enhance the City's identity with attractive high-quality gateways, city entry signs and design features, cohesive street signs, and other design features at public gathering spaces and other areas, where appropriate.
Policy LU-5.2: Standards and Guidelines. Develop and enforce development standards and objective design guidelines that provide clear direction for achieving quality community design in new development and redevelopment projects.
Policy LU-5.3: Site Planning. Identify and preserve, as feasible, the significant features of a site, such as viewsheds, heritage trees, and rock outcroppings, during the design and development of new projects.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1935 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.1-18 Aesthetics
Policy LU-5.5: Sustainable Design.
conserve t
Policy LU-5.7: Landscaping. Use landscaping for screening, solar control, parking lot shade, and other beautification purposes throughout the City.
Policy LU-5.8: Streetscapes. Promote drought tolerant landscaping, tree planting, and tree preservation along City streets as a means of improving aesthetics, making neighborhoods more pedestrian-friendly, and providing environmental and economic benefits.
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ELEMENT
Policy RM-1.1: Balanced Open Space System. Support a balanced and integrated open space system that reflects a variety of considerations, including resource conservation, recreation, aesthetics, and community identity.
Policy RM-1.2: Scenic Resources. resources, including
mature trees, rock outcroppings, hillsides, ridgelines, and other prominent natural landforms, to the extent practical.
Policy RM-1.4: Regional Cooperation. Recognize areas of overlapping jurisdiction with respect to open space and biological resources, such as the County of Riverside Multiple Species Habitat cities, agencies, and Riverside County to protect and maximize regional open space.
Policy RM-1.5: Hillside Development. Require the orderly development of hillside areas through Action RM-1e: For Hillside Development Projects, implement the City's Hillside Development Standards borders as Open Space, allowing areas of non-intensive development on the more gently sloped areas at the base of the eastern and western hillsides.
Action RM-1h: Identify local scenic routes and vistas and explore developing guidelines for development visible from these scenic routes to minimize impacts to scenic vistas.
Policy RM-3.5: Public Art. Promote the use of public art that celebrates the diverse and culturally rich history of San Jacinto at key gateways, major projects, and public gathering places.
Policy RM-7.9: Open Space in Nonresidential Development. Encourage outdoor gathering spaces, such as mini-parks and plazas, be incorporated into nonresidential development to encourage social interaction, create experience-oriented centers, and enhance the visual character of the community.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
Level of Significance: Less Than Significant Impact.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1936 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.1-19 Aesthetics
AES-4: Would the project create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area?
Impact Analysis: Future development accommodated through implementation of the General Plan Update could introduce new sources of light or glare with the potential to adversely affect day or nighttime views. Light and glare impacts could result from new light sources such as street lighting, interior and exterior building lighting (including for safety purposes), vehicle headlights, illuminated signage, traffic signals, and new glare sources such as reflective building materials, roofing materials, and windows.
These new sources of light and glare would be most visible from development along adjacent roadways, and to receptors such as residents and traveling motorists. Light pollution can also interfere with nocturnal wildlife, particularly night-hunting or foraging animals, such as owls, rodents, and others, or lead to skyglow, which interferes with the operation of astronomical observatories.
All lighting installed in future development projects as a result of the implementation of the General Plan Update would be subject to conformance with applicable SJDC requirements and guided by General Plan Update Land Use Element Action LU-3c, which would ensure sensitive receptors are protected from the intrusion of development activities that may cause unwanted nuisances through the development review process. Pursuant to SJDC Section 17.300.080, Outdoor Light and Glare, all exterior lighting would be shielded or modified, and located so as to eliminate spillover illumination or glare beyond the property line or upward into the sky. SJDC Section 17.300.080 would also ensure lighting fixtures used to illuminate an outdoor advertising display be directed downward. Further, SJDC Section 17.330.080, Parking Design and Development Standards, provides a maximum height limit of 25 feet tall for parking lot light standards and ensures illumination of parking lots does not exceed one-half foot-candle along lot lines of a project.
Pursuant to SJDC Section 17.600.090, all future land use and development review applications would undergo environmental review on a project-by-project basis prior to consideration by the decision-making authority. If necessary, mitigation would be recommended to reduce potential impacts to a less than significant level. Therefore, implementation of the General Plan Update would not result in adverse light and glare impacts. Impacts would be less than significant in this regard.
Proposed General Plan Update Goals, Policies, and Actions:
Action LU-3c: Analyze land use compatibility through the development review process to require adequate buffers and/or architectural enhancements that protect sensitive receptors from intrusion of development activities that may cause unwanted nuisances and health risks.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
Level of Significance: Less Than Significant Impact.
5.1.6 CUMULATIVE IMPACTS
Impact Analysis: As described above, the General Plan Update would support additional development beyond existing conditions and could increase residential densities and non-residential land use intensities in specific areas within the Study Area. This new development may result in changes to the skyline throughout the Study Area, which may obstruct or interfere with views of surrounding visual
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1937 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.1-20 Aesthetics
features, including the Lakeview Mountains to the west, the San Jacinto Mountain foothills to the northeast, and the San Timoteo badlands to the northwest. Furthermore, 2040 buildout under the proposed General Plan Update has the potential to result in new and expanded development along highway corridors with high scenic values, even though these corridors are not officially designated as State Scenic Highways. Additionally, expanded development could occur alongside County Eligible Scenic Highways within the Study Area designated by the Riverside County General Plan, which include Ramona Expressway, Lake Park Drive, and Soboba Road/Gilman Springs Road.
Regional growth has and will continue to result in a cumulative aesthetic effect by converting undeveloped land into developed and occupied areas, and increasing overall levels of nighttime lighting. In general, the General Plan Update Land Use Element proposes an increase in building density and intensity, which could increase the number and distribution of dwelling units and other buildings, as well as supporting infrastructure. This is considered a potentially significant cumulative impact. Subsequent projects implemented under the General Plan Update would be required to be consistent with the General Plan Update policies and actions and adopted regulations pertaining to aesthetics and lighting in San Jacinto.
With implementation of the adopted policies and regulations described above, the proposed General Plan Update would not considerably contribute to permanent changes in visual character, such as obstruction of scenic views, conversion of existing visual character, and increased lighting resulting in a substantial degradation. The polices and actions included within the General Plan Update and compliance with the SJDC would reduce the cumulative effect of the General Plan Update on visual character to a less-thansignificant level. Therefore, the General Plan Update aesthetic impacts would be less than cumulatively considerable.
Proposed General Plan Update Goals, Policies, and Actions: Refer to the General Plan goals, policies, and actions cited above.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
Level of Significance: Less Than Significant Impact.
5.1.7 SIGNIFICANT UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS
Aesthetics impacts associated with the implementation of the General Plan Update would be less than significant and no significant unavoidable aesthetics impacts would occur as a result of the General Plan Update.
5.1.8 REFERENCES
City of San Jacinto, Landscape Design Guidelines, May 2005.
County of Riverside, Riverside County General Plan, December 2015.
County of Riverside, San Jacinto Valley Area Plan, December 2016.
State of California Department of Transportation, Officially Designated County Scenic Highways, https://dot.ca.gov/-/media/dot-media/programs/design/documents/od-county-scenic-hwys2015-a11y.pdf, accessed September 16, 2021.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1938 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.1-21 Aesthetics
State of California Department of Transportation, California State Scenic Highways, https://dot.ca.gov/programs/design/lap-landscape-architecture-and-community-livability/lapliv-i-scenic-highways, accessed September 16, 2021.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1939 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.1-22 Aesthetics
This page intentionally left blank.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1940 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.2-1 Agriculture Resources
5.2 AGRICULTURE RESOURCES
This section identifies the existing agricultural conditions within the Study Area and provides an analysis of potential impacts associated with implementation of the General Plan Update. Potential impacts are identified and mitigation measures to address potentially significant impacts are recommended, as necessary.
5.2.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING
AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES
The City of San Jacinto has historically been an agricultural community with its rich valley soils providing for a wide variety of agricultural crops. Agricultural uses include groves and orchards, field croplands, and dairy and livestock feed yards. The central, western, southwestern, and northwestern portions of the City are primarily comprised of field croplands, with some dairy and livestock feed yards intermixed throughout the agricultural areas. There are also field croplands and a scattering of dairy and livestock feed yards surrounding the developed areas of the City. The groves and orchards are in the westernmost portion of the City along Casa Loma Canal and in the southeastern portion of the City. There are also agricultural preserve areas within the western and northwestern portions of the City. Within City limits, there are approximately 3,272 acres of non-preserved agricultural land and approximately 514 acres of preserved agricultural land in use. Within the Sphere of Influence area, there are approximately 112 acres of non-preserved agricultural land in use and there are no preserved agricultural lands, resulting in a total of 3,898 acres of agricultural land in use within the Study Area. While there are preserved agricultural lands within City limits, there are no active Williamson Act Contract lands within the Study Area.
The California Department of Conservation (DOC), Division of Land Resource Protection, identified important farmland throughout the state through its Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program (FMMP). The FMMP is non-regulatory and was developed to inventory land and provide categorical definitions of important farmlands and consistent and impartial data to decision makers for use in resources. The program does not necessarily reflect local General Plan actions, urban needs, changing economic conditions, proximity to market, and other factors, which may be taken into consideration when government considers agricultural land use policies. The FMMP periodically prepares Important Farmland Maps, which are a hybrid of resource quality (soils) and land use information intended to document the suitability of land for agricultural production.
Figure 5.2-1, Important Farmlands Map, presents the distribution of FMMP resources within the Study Area. These include lands designated as Prime and Unique Farmlands, Farmland of Statewide and Local Importance, Grazing Land, Urban and Built-Up, Other Land, and bodies of Water. A description of each of these categories is provided below. Table 5.2-1, Acres of FMMP Farmland within Study Area, presents the approximate acreage of each FMMP category within the Study Area.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1941 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.2-2 Agriculture Resources Table 5.2-1
Acres of FMMP Farmland within Study Area
Category City Sphere of
Influence Total
Prime Farmland 409.92 2.69 412.61
Farmland of Statewide Importance 1,757.94 0 1,757.94
Unique Farmland 1,028.63 109.84 1,138.47
Farmland of Local Importance 3,730.77 302.16 4,032.93
Grazing Land 0 0 0
Urban and Built-Up Land 5,716.18 396.98 6,113.16
Other 4,023.66 5,324.93 9,348.59
Total 16,667.09 6,136.60 22,803.69
Source: California Department of Conservation (DOC), Farmland Mapping & Monitoring Program, https://maps.conservation.ca.gov/DLRP/CIFF/, accessed October 14, 2021.
Prime Farmland
Prime Farmland has the most favorable combination of physical and chemical features, enabling it to sustain long-term production of agricultural crops. This land possesses the soil quality, growing season, and moisture supply needed to produce sustained high yields. In order to qualify for this classification, the land must have produced irrigated crops at some point during the two update cycles prior to Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) mapping. The Study Area contains approximately 413 acres of Prime Farmland. Pockets of Prime Farmland are found along the southern perimeter of the Study Area; northwest and northeast of Park Hill, west of Palm Avenue, and west of Cawston Avenue. Prime Farmland is also found throughout the western region of the Study Area; small pockets along the western side of Lyon Avenue, as well as between Sanderson Avenue and Odell Avenue. There are also a few pockets in the northern portion of the City, above the Ramona Expressway.
Farmland of Statewide Importance
Farmland of Statewide Importance is similar to Prime Farmland; however, it possesses minor shortcomings, such as greater slopes and/or less ability to store moisture. In order to qualify for this classification, the land must have produced irrigated crops at some point during the two update cycles prior to NRCS mapping. The Study Area contains approximately 1,758 acres of Farmland of Statewide Importance. Farmland of Statewide Importance is found in the western half of the Study Area, mainly north of Cottonwood Avenue and west of the 79 Expressway. In addition, there is a pocket of farmland in the southwestern region (west of Cawston Avenue) and north of the 79 Expressway (on the eastern side of the Expressway).
Unique Farmland
Unique Farmland is of lesser quality soils used for the production of the leading agricultural crops.
Unique Farmland includes areas that do not meet the above stated criteria for Prime Farmland or Farmland of Statewide Importance, but that have been used for the production of specific high economic value crops during the two update cycles prior to the mapping date. It has the special combination of soil quality, location, growing season, and moisture supply needed to produce sustained high quality and/or
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1942 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.2-3 Agriculture Resources high yields of a specific crop when treated and managed according to current farming methods. This land is usually irrigated, but may include non-irrigated orchards or vineyards, as found in some climatic zones in California. Land must have been farmed at some time during the four years prior to the mapping date.
The Study Area contains approximately 1,138 acres of Unique Farmland. Unique Farmland is scattered throughout the Study Area with nearly all of it located north of Cottonwood Avenue; there is an area along the San Jacinto River in the eastern half of the Study Area; a sizeable area between Warren Road and Sanderson Avenue; and a pocket east of the 79 Expressway and south of Record Road.
Farmland of Local Importance
Farmland of Local Importance is important to the local agricultural economy, as determined by the County Board of Supervisors and a local advisory committee. The County defines Farmland of Local Importance as land with the same characteristics as Prime Farmland or Farmland of Statewide Importance, with the exception of irrigation. The Study Area contains approximately 4,033 acres of Farmland of Local Importance. The majority of this farmland is within the western and southwestern regions of the Study Area, mainly west of Sanderson Avenue, with one pocket north of Record Road in the northeastern portion of the City.
Grazing Land
Grazing Land is land on which the existing vegetation is suited to the grazing of livestock. This category was developed in cooperat
Cooperative Extension, and other groups interested in the extent of grazing activities. The minimum mapping unit for Grazing Land is 40 acres. The Study Area does not contain grazing land.
Urban and Built-Up Land
Urban and Built-Up Land consists of land occupied by structures with a building density of at least one unit to one and a half acres, or approximately six structures to a 10-acre parcel. This land is used for residential, industrial, commercial, construction, institutional, public administration, railroad and other transportation yards, cemeteries, airports, golf courses, sanitary landfills, sewage treatment, water control structures, and other developed purposes. The Study Area contains approximately 6,113 acres of land designated as Urban and Built-Up Land; with the majority of the central region of the Study Area, and continuing down South towards Hemet and West towards Lakeview Mountains, being identified as urban and built up. There is also an urban and built up pocket of land in the northern portion of the Study Area within the Sphere of Influence, north of the San Jacinto River.
Other Land
Other Land consists of land not included in any other mapping category. Common examples include lowdensity rural developments; brush, timber, wetland, and riparian areas not suitable for livestock grazing; confined livestock, poultry, or aquaculture facilities; strip mines and borrow pits; and water bodies smaller than 40 acres. Vacant and non-agricultural land surrounded on all sides by urban development and greater than 40 acres is mapped as Other Land. The Study Area contains approximately 9,349 acres of land designated as Other Land. Much of the land along the eastern and western Study Area borders and some smaller pockets located centrally in the Study Area, are designated as Other Land. Park Hill is considered Other Land as well.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1943 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.2-4 Agriculture Resources Water
Water consists of perennial water bodies with an extent of at least 40 acres. The Study Area contains two bodies of water recognized by the FMMP: the San Jacinto River and Cottonwood Lake.
FARMLAND PRESERVATION
The California Land Conservation Act, also known as the Williamson Act, was adopted in 1965 to encourage the preservation of the state's agricultural lands and to prevent their premature conversion to urban uses. The Williamson Act is described in greater detail below.
Figure 5.2-2, Agricultural Preserve Lands, show the 514 acres (18 parcels) within the City of San Jacinto and Sphere of Influence that are classified as preserved agricultural lands by the Riverside County Assessor, however there are no active Williamson Act Contracts within the Study Area.
FORESTRY RESOURCES
Forest land is defined by Public Resources Code Section 12220(g), and includes "land that can support 10 percent native tree cover of any species, including hardwoods, under natural conditions, and that allows for management of one or more forest resources, including timber, aesthetics, fish and wildlife, Timber land is defined by Public Resources Code Section 4526, and by the federal government and land designated by the board as experimental forest land, which is available for, and capable of, growing a crop of trees of a commercial species used to produce lumber and other forest products, including Christmas trees. Commercial species shall be determined by the board on a district basis.
There are no forest lands or timber lands located within the Study Area.
5.2.2 REGULATORY SETTING
FEDERAL
Farmland Protection Policy Act
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), an agency within the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is responsible for implementation of the Farmland Protection Policy Act (FPPA). The purpose of the FPPA is to minimize federal programs' contribution to the conversion of farmland to non-agricultural uses by ensuring that federal programs are administered in a manner that is compatible with state, local, and private programs designed to protect farmland. The NRCS provides technical assistance to federal agencies, state and local governments, tribes, and nonprofit organizations that desire to develop farmland protection programs and policies. The NRCS summarizes FPPA implementation in an annual report to Congress.
Farm and Ranch Lands Protection Program
The NRCS administers the Farm and Ranch Lands Protection Program (FRPP), a voluntary program aimed at keeping productive farmland in agricultural uses. Under the FRPP, the NRCS provides matching funds
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1944 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.2-5 Agriculture Resources to state, local, or tribal government entities and nonprofit organizations with existing farmland protection programs to purchase conservation easements. According to the 1996 Farm Bill, the goal of the program is to protect between 170,000 and 340,000 acres of farmland per year. Participating landowners agree not to convert the land to non-agricultural use and retain all rights to use the property for agriculture. A conservation plan must be developed for all lands enrolled based upon the standards contained in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide. A minimum of 30 years is required for conservation easements and priority is given to applications with perpetual easements. The NRCS provides up to 50 percent of the fair market value of the easement being conserved (NRCS, 2004). To qualify for a conservation easement, farm or ranch land must meet several criteria. The land must be:
Prime, Unique, or other productive soil, as defined by NRCS based on factors such as water moisture regimes, available water capacity, developed irrigation water supply, soil temperature range, acid-alkali balance, water table, soil sodium content, potential for flooding, erodibility, permeability rate, rock fragment content, and soil rooting depth; Included in a pending offer to be managed by a nonprofit organization, state, tribal, or local farmland protection program;
Privately owned;
Placed under a conservation plan;
Large enough to sustain agricultural production;
Accessible to markets for the crop that the land produces; and Surrounded by parcels of land that can support long-term agricultural production.
STATE
California Department of Conservation
The California Department of Conservation (DOC) administers and supports a number of programs, including the Williamson Act, the California Farmland Conservancy Program (CFCP), the Williamson Act Easement Exchange Program (WAEEP), and the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program (FMMP).
These programs are designed to preserve agricultural land and provide data on conversion of agricultural land to urban use. The DOC has authority for the approval of agreements entered into under the WAEEP.
Key DOC tools available for land conservation planning are conservation grants, tax incentives to keep land in agriculture or open space, and farmland mapping and monitoring.
California Land Conservation Act of 1965 (Williamson Act) The California Land Conservation Act of 1965, better known as the Williamson Act (California Administrative Code Section 51200 et seq.), creates an arrangement whereby private landowner s contract with local governments to voluntarily restrict land to agricultural or related open space uses. In return, restricted parcels are assessed for property tax purposes, at a rate consistent with their actual use, rather than potential market value, which saves landowners from 20 percent to 75 percent in property tax liability each year. Local governments receive an annual subvention of forgone property tax revenues from the state via the Open Space Subvention Act of 1971 (California Government Code Section 16140- 16154). Initially signed for a minimum 10-year period, the contracts are automatically renewed each year
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1945 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.2-6 Agriculture Resources for a successive minimum 10-year period unless a notice of non-renewal is filed, or a contract cancellation is approved by the local government.
Farmland Security Zone
A Farmland Security Zone is an area created within an agricultural preserve by a board of supervisors (board) or city council (council) upon request by a landowner or group of landowners. An agricultural preserve defines the boundary of an area within which a city or county will enter into contracts with landowners. The boundary is designated by resolution of the board or council having jurisdiction.
Agricultural preserves must generally be at least 100 acres in size. Farmland Security Zone contracts offer landowners greater property tax reduction. Land restricted by a Farmland Security Zone contract is valued for property assessment purposes at 65 percent of its Williamson Act valuation or 65 percent of its Proposition 13 valuation, whichever is lower.
Forest Practice Rules
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) implements the laws that regulate timber harvesting on privately-owned lands. These laws are contained in the Z'berg-Nejedly Forest Practice Act of 1973 which established a set of rules known as the Forest Practice Rules (FPRs) to be applied to forest management related activities (i.e., timber harvests, timberland conversions, fire hazard removal, etc.). They are intended to ensure that timber harvesting is conducted in a manner that will preserve and protect fish, wildlife, forests, and streams. Under the Forest Practice Act, a Timber Harvesting Plan (THP) is submitted to CAL FIRE by the landowner outlining what timber is proposed to be harvested, harvesting method, and the steps that will be taken to prevent damage to the environment. If the landowner intends to convert timberland to non-timberland uses, such as a winery or vineyard, a Timberland Conversion Permit (TCP) is required in addition to the THP. It is CAL FIRE's intent that a THP will not be approved which fails to adopt feasible mitigation measures or alternatives from the range of measures set out or provided for in the Forest Practice Rules, which would substantially lessen or avoid significant adverse environmental impacts resulting from timber harvest activities. THPs are required to be prepared by Registered Professional Foresters (RPFs) who are licensed to prepare these plans (CAL FIRE, 2007). For projects involving TCPs, CAL FIRE acts as lead agency under CEQA, and the county or city acts as a responsible agency.
LOCAL
San Jacinto Municipal Code
San Jacinto Development Code (SJDC) Section 17.305.040, Agriculture Preservation (Right-to-Farm) statement that acknowledges the subdivider's and owner's understanding of the presence of the adjoining agricultural use and the City's policy regarding its right to continue. It is the declared policy of the City to preserve, protect, and encourage development of its agricultural land consistent with Civil Code Section 3482.5. Section 3482.5 provides that no agricultural activity, operation, or facility, or appurtenances, conducted or maintained for commercial purposes, and in a manner consistent with proper and accepted customs and standards, as established and followed by similar agricultural operations in the same locality,
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1946 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.2-7 Agriculture Resources shall be or become a nuisance, private or public, due to any changed condition in or about the locality, after it has been in operation for more than three years if it was not a nuisance at the time it began.
5.2.3 SIGNIFICANCE CRITERIA AND THRESHOLDS
Appendix G of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines contains the Initial Study Environmental Checklist, which includes questions related to agricultural and forestry resources. The issues presented in the Initial Study Environmental Checklist have been utilized as thresholds of significance in this section. Accordingly, a project may create a significant environmental impact if it would:
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;
Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract; 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)); Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use; and/or 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.
There are no forest lands or timber lands located within the Study Area. There are also no parcels that are currently zoned as forest land, timber, or timber production. Therefore, implementation of the proposed General Plan Update would have no impact on forest land, timber, or timber production and these impacts will not be discussed further.
5.2.4 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
AG-1: 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 nonagricultural use? Impact Analysis: As shown in Table 5.2-1, there are approximately 3,309 acres of Important Farmlands located within the Study Area, including approximately 413 acres of Prime Farmland, 1,758 acres of Statewide Importance, and 1,138 acres of Unique Farmland. However, not all land designated as Important Farmlands (Prime, Statewide Importance, and Unique) are currently being utilized for agricultural uses.
Some of the agricultural lands in use or identified as Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland and Farmland of Statewide Importance by the FMMP are within adopted Specific Plan areas (The Villages of San Jacinto, The Trails, and The Esplanade). These Specific Plan areas have been identified for development and the
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1947 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.2-8 Agriculture Resources conversion of farmlands to non-agricultural use were previously contemplated and analyzed as part of the certified EIRs for each Specific Plan area. Implementation of the proposed General Plan Update would not result in new or increased impacts to Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland and Farmland of Statewide Importance within the Villages of San Jacinto, The Trails or The Esplanade Specific Plan areas.
Although there are existing agricultural activities within the Study Area, the San Jacinto General Plan Land Use Map does not designate lands specifically for agricultural use. Areas identified as Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland and Farmland of Statewide Importance, including within approved Specific Plan areas, are mostly designated for a mix of residential and non-residential development, which would continue with the General Plan Update.
Future development associated with the implementation of the General Plan Update and changes in the economy would likely result in the conversion of many of these areas for urban uses. Because there are no exclusive agricultural land use designations included as part of the General Plan Update, future development could convert existing agricultural resources and Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, and Farmland of Statewide Importance to non-agricultural uses. It is assumed that as development occurs, the agricultural viability of the Important Farmlands within the Study Area would be reduced. However, it is anticipated that some agricultural uses would continue to operate during the 20-year life of the General Plan and the General Plan Update Land Use Element includes policies and actions to support continued agricultural activities. For example, Policy LU-2.4 which allows and supports for the continuation of agricultural operations on lands within the City limits that are designated for development uses. Action LU-2e gives priority to redevelopment and infill projects that reduce development pressure on agricultural lands. Action LU-2f directs the City to work with property owners and agricultural operations interested in retaining agricultural lands.
Adoption of the proposed General Plan Update would not lead to the direct conversion of designated Important Farmland, but rather, would continue the existing land use pattern in San Jacinto that calls for ongoing infill development and urbanization within the City. However, since the General Plan Update does not require the preservation of designated farmland, implementation of the General Plan Update could result in the conversion of farmland to non-agricultural uses. Any additional mitigation measures, such as the preservation of designated farmland, are not feasible and conflict with the other objectives of the General Plan Update, specifically to
nesses and industries that provide jobs for local
Although the General Plan Update includes policies and actions to support continued agricultural use within the Study Area, the potential for the conversion of Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland and Farmland of Statewide Importance as identified by the FMMP to non-agricultural use would be a significant unavoidable impact.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1948 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.2-9 Agriculture Resources Proposed General Plan Update Goals, Policies, and Actions:
LAND USE ELEMENT
Policy LU-2.4: Agricultural Uses Allow and support the continuation of agricultural operations on lands within the City limits that are designated for development uses, until such time as new development is proposed for the land.
Action LU-2e: Give priority to redevelopment and infill projects that reduce development pressure on agricultural lands and other sensitive resources.
Action LU-2f: Work with property owners and agricultural operations interested in retaining agricultural land to identify feasible ways to maintain the land in agricultural production.
Apply agricultural conservation easements to land desired by the City and the property owner to remain as agricultural land.
Mitigation Measures: There is no feasible mitigation available for this impact.
Level of Significance: Significant Unavoidable Impact.
AG-2: Would the project conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract?
Impact Analysis: Although the General Plan Update does not include any zone changes at this time, a future zoning update is anticipated to bring zoning into compliance with the General Plan Update.
However, since the City does not have any zoning districts exclusive to agriculture uses, the General Plan Update, and subsequent zoning code update, would not conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use.
Future development projects resulting from implementation of the General Plan Update, could potentially conflict with parcels assessed as agriculturally preserved. As discussed, 18 parcels totaling 514 acres located within the western portion of the Study Area, and within a pocket area towards the northern perimeter of the City limits, are currently assessed by the Riverside County Assessor as agriculturally preserved. The General Plan Update land use designations for these parcels allow for non-agricultural uses including mixed-use and residential. Additionally, lands within the surrounding area are identified for urban development. Because there are no exclusive agricultural land use designations included as part of the General Plan Update, it is possible that future development associated with the implementation of the General Plan Update and changes in the economy would result in the conversion of preserved agricultural properties to urban uses. The General Plan Update Land Use Element includes policies and actions to support continued agricultural activities, including Policy LU-2.4 which allows and supports the continuation of agricultural operations on lands within the City limits that are designated for development uses, until such time as new development is proposed for the land. Action LU-2f directs the City to work with property owners and agricultural operations interested in retaining agricultural land to identify ways to maintain agricultural production; agricultural conservation easements may be applied to land desired to remain as agricultural land.
Adoption of the proposed General Plan Update would not lead to the direct conversion of preserved agricultural lands, but rather, would continue the existing land use pattern in San Jacinto that calls for
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1949 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.2-10 Agriculture Resources ongoing infill development and urbanization within the City. Since the General Plan Update does not require the preservation of agricultural land, implementation of the General Plan Update could result in the conversion of agriculturally-utilized properties to non-agricultural uses as future development occurs.
Development of land surrounding preserved parcels may indirectly cause these parcels to transition to non-agricultural use in the future. Any additional mitigation measures, such as the preservation of designated farmland, are not feasible and conflict with the other objectives of the General Plan Update, potentially discourage future development envisioned in the General Plan Update.
Although the General Plan Update includes policies and actions to support continued agricultural use within the Study Area, the potential for future development to conflict with a preserved or Williamson Act contract would be a significant unavoidable impact.
Proposed General Plan Update Goals, Policies, and Actions:
LAND USE ELEMENT
Policy LU-2.4: Agricultural Uses. Allow and support the continuation of agricultural operations on lands within the City limits that are designated for development uses, until such time as new development is proposed for the land.
Action LU-2f: Work with property owners and agricultural operations interested in retaining agricultural land to identify feasible ways to maintain the land in agricultural production.
Apply agricultural conservation easements to land desired by the City and the property owner to remain as agricultural land.
Mitigation Measures: There is no feasible mitigation available for this impact.
Level of Significance: Significant Unavoidable Impact.
AG-3: 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?
Impact Analysis: There are no forest lands within the Study Area, nor are there suitable environmental conditions for forest land to be developed; therefore, implementation of the proposed Project will not result in the conversion of forest land to non-forest use.
As discussed above, the General Plan Update does not designate any lands specifically for agricultural use, nor does it propose the direct conversion of existing Farmland to non-agricultural use. Nonetheless, implementation of the General Plan Update could intensify uses within the Study Area in a manner that would further reduce the feasibility of agricultural production. Development of land surrounding current agricultural parcels may cause the operational and economic constraints of agricultural production to increase. Increase in the operational and economic constraints of agricultural production may make farming on existing agricultural parcels economically infeasible and result in their conversion to more profitable uses. Furthermore, the development of land consistent with the General Plan Update could
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1950 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.2-11 Agriculture Resources also indirectly affect the feasibility of agricultural production through increased urbanization of the Study Area. Therefore, implementation of the proposed General Plan Update would result in other changes in the existing environment which, due to location or nature, could result in conversion of farmland to nonagricultural use.
The General Plan Update Land Use Element includes policies and actions to support continued agricultural activities. For example, Policy LU-3.6 ensures that new urban uses proposed adjacent to lands designated for agricultural uses include adequate buffers to reduce potential land use conflicts and nuisance impacts to sensitive receptors. Action LU-3e states that during both redevelopment and new development projects, the provision and maintenance of setbacks an buffers, such as roadways, and topographic features is to be encouraged to prevent incompatibilities between agricultural and non-agricultural use.
Additionally, SJDC Section 17.305.040, Agriculture Preservation (Right-to-Farm) provides the declared policy of the City to preserve, protect, and encourage development of its agricultural land consistent with Civil Code Section 3482.5. Section 3482.5 provides that no agricultural activity, operation, or facility, or appurtenances, conducted or maintained for commercial purposes, and in a manner consistent with proper and accepted customs and standards, as established and followed by similar agricultural operations in the same locality, shall be or become a nuisance, private or public, due to any changed condition in or about the locality, after it has been in operation for more than three years if it was not a nuisance at the time it began. Any additional mitigation measures, such as the preservation of designated farmland, are not feasible and conflict with the other objectives of the General Plan Update, specifically discourage future development envisioned in the General Plan Update. Although implementation of the General Plan Update policies and actions and the SJDC would assist in reducing the potential for some existing Farmland to convert to non-agricultural uses, it is anticipated that changes in the existing environment associated with future development anticipated by the General Plan Update would result in the conversion of Farmland to non-agricultural use and impacts would be significant and unavoidable.
Proposed General Plan Update Goals, Policies, and Actions:
LAND USE ELEMENT
Policy LU-3.6: Agricultural Compatibility. Ensure that new urban uses that are proposed adjacent to lands designated for agricultural uses include adequate buffers to reduce potential land use conflicts and nuisance impacts to sensitive receptors.
Action LU-3e: During both redevelopment and the development of new projects, encourage the provision and maintenance of setbacks and buffers, such as roadways, topographic features, and open space, to prevent incompatibilities between agricultural and nonagricultural land uses.
Mitigation Measures: There is no feasible mitigation available for this impact.
Level of Significance: Significant Unavoidable Impact.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1951 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.2-12 Agriculture Resources
5.2.5 CUMULATIVE IMPACTS
Impact Analysis: The City does not have any zoning classifications for forestland, timberland, or timberland production zones, nor does the Study Area include any forestland; therefore, the General Plan Update would not contribute to a significant impact relative to forestland, timberland or timberland production zones.
As shown in Table 5.2-1, there are approximately 3,309 acres of Important Farmlands located within the Study Area, including approximately 413 acres of Prime Farmland, 1,758 acres of Statewide Importance, and 1,138 acres of Unique Farmland. As shown on the General Plan Update Land Use Map (Figure 3-4), all of the land within the Study Area is planned for urban development, with the exception of areas designated as Open Space, Park, or Water. While some agricultural uses would continue to operate, future development associated with the implementation of the General Plan Update and changes in the economy would likely result in the conversion of many of these areas for urban uses, including lands under a Williamson Act contract. Further, it is assumed that as development occurs, the agricultural viability of lands within the Study Area would be reduced. The General Plan Update includes policies and actions that support the continuance of agricultural activities within the Study Area. Although the General Plan Update would not result in the direct conversion of designated Important Farmland or agricultural land under a Williamson Act contract, the General Plan Update does not require the preservation of agricultural land.
Additionally, any additional mitigation measures, such as the preservation of designated farmland, are busine
development envisioned in the General Plan Update. Therefore, implementation of the General Plan Update could result in the permanent loss of agricultural resources within the Study Area, resulting in a significant unavoidable cumulative impact.
Proposed General Plan Update Goals, Policies, and Actions: Refer to the General Plan goals, policies, and actions cited above.
Mitigation Measures: There is no feasible mitigation available for this impact.
Level of Significance: Significant Unavoidable Impact.
5.2.6 SIGNIFICANT UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS
Impacts to agricultural resources associated with the implementation of the General Plan Update would be significant and unavoidable.
If the City of San Jacinto approves the General Plan Update, the City will be required to make findings in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15091 and prepare a Statement of Overriding Considerations
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1952 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.2-13 Agriculture Resources
5.2.7 REFERENCES
California Department of Conservation (DOC), Important Farmland Categories, https://www.conservation.ca.gov/dlrp/fmmp/Pages/Important-Farmland-Categories.aspx, accessed September 29, 2021.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1953 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.2-14 Agriculture Resources This page intentionally left blank.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1954 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) tS ybri K
evA
t S et atS ml aP
t Stti weH
ev AnoyL
evA nots waC
s onaBs ol oni maC
evAll edO
evA nosr ednaS
dR nerr a W
evA lmaP
t S ai b m
t S ybri K
t S et atS evAnoyL evA nosr ednaS
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1955 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1956 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) tS ybri K
evA
t S et atS ml aP
t Stti weH
ev AnoyL
evA nots waC
s onaBs ol oni maC
evAll edO
evA nosr ednaS
dR nerr a W
evA lmaP
t S ai b m
t S ybri K
t S et atS evAnoyL evA nosr ednaS
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1957 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1958 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-1 Air Quality
5.3 AIR QUALITY
5.3.1 PURPOSE
This section identifies the existing air quality conditions within the Study Area and provides an analysis of potential impacts associated with implementation of the General Plan Update. Potential impacts are identified and mitigation measures to address potentially significant impacts are recommended, as necessary.
This section is primarily based upon The City of San Jacinto 2040 General Plan Environmental Impact Report Air Quality, prepared by MD Acoustics, LLC and dated June 2022; refer to Appendix B, Air Quality Report. 5.3.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING
The City of San Jacinto is part of the South Coast Air Basin (SCAB) that includes the non-desert portions of Riverside, Los Angeles, and San Bernardino Counties, as well as all of Orange County. SCAB is located on a coastal plain with connecting broad valleys and low hills to the east. Regionally, SCAB is bounded by the Pacific Ocean to the southwest and high mountains to the east forming the inland perimeter.
LOCAL CLIMATE AND METEOROLOGY
Dominant airflows provide the driving mechanism for transport and dispersion of air pollution. The mountains surrounding the region form natural horizontal barriers to the dispersion of air contaminants.
Air pollution created in the coastal areas and around the Los Angeles area is transported inland until it reaches the mountains where the combination of mountains and inversion layers generally prevent further dispersion. This poor ventilation results in a gradual degradation of air quality from the coastal areas to inland areas. Air stagnation may occur during the early evening and early morning periods of transition between day and nighttime flows. The region also experiences periods of hot, dry winds from the desert, known as Santa Ana winds. If the Santa Ana winds are strong, they can surpass the sea breeze, which blows from the ocean to the land, and carry the suspended dust and pollutants out to the ocean.
If the winds are weak, they are opposed by the sea breeze and cause stagnation, resulting in high pollution events.
The annual average temperature varies little throughout much of the basin, ranging from the low to middle 60s, measured in degrees Fahrenheit (°F). With more pronounced oceanic influence, coastal areas show less variability in annual minimum and maximum temperatures compared to inland areas where the Study Area is located.
The majority of the annual rainfall in the basin occurs between November and April. Summer rainfall is minimal and is generally limited to scattered thunderstorms in the coastal regions and slightly heavier showers in the eastern portion of the basin along the coastal westerly side of the mountains. Year-to-year patterns in rainfall are unpredictable because of fluctuations in the weather.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1959 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-2 Air Quality
Temperature inversions limit the vertical depth through which pollution can be mixed. Among the most common temperature inversions in the basin are radiation inversions, which form on clear winter nights when cold air off mountains sink to the valley floor while the air aloft over the valley remains warm. These inversions, in conjunction with calm winds, trap pollutants near the source. Other types of temperature inversions that affect the basin include marine, subsidence, and high-pressure inversions.
Summers are often periods of hazy visibility and occasionally unhealthful air. Strong temperature inversions may occur that limit the vertical depth through which air pollution can be dispersed. Air pollutants concentrate because they cannot rise through the inversion layer and disperse. These inversions are more common and persistent during the summer months. Over time, sunlight produces photochemical reactions within this inversion layer that creates ozone, a particularly harmful air pollutant.
Occasionally, strong thermal convections occur which allows the air pollutants to rise high enough to pass over the mountains and ultimately dilute the smog cloudtrap pollutants such as automobile exhaust near their source.
In the winter, light nocturnal winds result mainly from the drainage of cool air off of the mountains toward the valley floor while the air aloft over the valley remains warm. This forms a type of inversion known as a radiation inversion. Such winds are characterized by stagnation and poor local mixing and trap pollutants in heavily developed coastal areas of the basin, there is not enough traffic to cause any winter air pollution problems. Despite light wind conditions, especially at night and in the early morning, winter is generally a period of good air quality in the Study Area.
The temperature and precipitation levels for the City of Hemet, the closest station with data, are in Table
5.3-1, Metrological Summary. Table 5.3-1 shows that August is typically the warmest month and December is typically the coolest month. Rainfall in the Study Area varies considerably in both time and space. Almost all the annual rainfall comes from the fringes of mid-latitude storms from late November to early April, with summers being almost completely dry.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1960 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-3 Air Quality
Table 5.3-1
Meteorological Summary
Month Average Precipitation
Average High Average Low (inches)
January 69.2 38.0 69.2
February 67.9 39.1 67.9
March 72.7 41.6 72.7
April 77.0 44.1 77.0
May 85.3 49.8 85.3
June 91.8 54.0 91.8
July 99.0 59.3 99.0
August 99.1 60.0 99.1
September 94.6 56.5 94.6
October 84.8 49.7 84.8
November 72.9 41.0 72.9
December 68.4 37.7 68.4
Annual Average 82.2 47.7 82.2
Source: Western Regional Climate Center, Period of Record Monthly Climate Summary, https://wrcc.dri.edu/cgi-bin/cliMAIN.pl?ca3896, accessed on October 25, 2021.
CRITERIA POLLUTANTS
All criteria pollutants can have human health and environmental effects at certain concentrations. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) uses six "criteria pollutants" as indicators of air quality, and has established for each of them a maximum concentration above which adverse effects on human health may occur. These threshold concentrations are called National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). In addition, California establishes ambient air quality standards, called California Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS).
The ambient air quality standards for the six criteria pollutants are set for public health and the environment within an adequate margin of safety (as provided under Section 109 of the Federal Clean Air Act). Epidemiological, controlled human exposure, and toxicology studies evaluate potential health and environmental effects of criteria pollutants, and form the scientific basis for new and revised ambient air quality standards. Principal characteristics and possible health and environmental effects from exposure to the six primary criteria pollutants generated by future growth accommodated by the General Plan Update are discussed below.
Ozone (O3) is a photochemical oxidant and the major component of smog. While ozone in the upper atmosphere is beneficial to life by shielding the earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun, high concentrations of ozone at ground level are a major health and environmental concern. Ozone is not
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1961 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-4 Air Quality
emitted directly into the air but is formed through complex chemical reactions between precursor emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOC) and oxides of nitrogen (NOx) in the presence of sunlight.
These reactions are stimulated by sunlight and temperature so that peak ozone levels occur typically during the warmer times of the year. Both VOCs and NOx are emitted by transportation and industrial sources. VOCs are emitted from sources as diverse as autos, chemical manufacturing, dry cleaners, paint shops, and other sources using solvents.
The reactivity of ozone causes health problems because it damages lung tissue, reduces lung function and sensitizes the lungs to other irritants. Scientific evidence indicates that ambient levels of ozone not only affect people with impaired respiratory systems, such as asthmatics, but healthy adults and children as well. Exposure to ozone for several hours at relatively low concentrations has been found to significantly reduce lung function and induce respiratory inflammation in normal, healthy people during exercise. This decrease in lung function generally is accompanied by symptoms including chest pain, coughing, sneezing, and pulmonary congestion.
Studies show associations between short-term ozone exposure and non-accidental mortality, including deaths from respiratory issues. Studies also suggest long-term exposure to ozone may increase the risk of respiratory-related deaths. The concentration of ozone at which health effects are observed depends on sure. Studies show
large individual differences in the intensity of symptomatic responses, with one study finding no symptoms to the least responsive individual after a 2-hour exposure to 400 parts per billion of ozone and a 50 percent decrement in forced airway volume in the most responsive individual. Although the results vary, evidence suggest that sensitive populations (e.g., asthmatics) may be affected on days when the 8- hour maximum ozone concentration reaches 80 parts per billion. The average background level of ozone in California and Nevada is approximately 48.3 parts per billion, which represents approximately 77 percent of the total ozone in the western region of the United States.
In addition to human health effect, ozone has been tied to crop damage, typically in the form of stunted growth, leaf discoloration, cell damage, and premature death. Ozone can also act as a corrosive and oxidant, resulting in property damage such as the degradation of rubber products and other materials.
Ozone concentrations tend to be highest in summer and lowest in winter.
Over long-term timeframes, ozone concentrations in California have decreased. On a more local level, data from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) shows an approximately 47 percent reduction in ozone levels in the SCAB region from 1992 to 2011. CARB also forecasts that emissions of VOCs and NOx in the SCAB will continue to reduce over time due to an assumption of stricter vehicle standards and increased efficiency (NOx is projected to be reduced from 451 tons/day in 2015 to 257 tons/day in 2035, and VOCs are projected to decrease from 429 tons/day in 2015 to 391 tons/day in 2035).
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and poisonous gas produced by incomplete burning of carbon in fuels. Carbon monoxide is harmful because it binds to hemoglobin in the blood, reducing the common effects of CO exposure are fatigue, headaches, confusion, and dizziness due to inadequate oxygen delivery to the brain. For people with cardiovascular disease, short-term CO exposure can further
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1962 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-5 Air Quality
exertion, or stress. Inadequate oxygen delivery to the heart muscle leads to chest pain and decreased exercise tolerance. Unborn babies whose mothers experience high levels of CO exposure during pregnancy are at risk of adverse developmental effects. Exposure to CO at high concentrations can also cause fatigue, headaches, confusion, dizziness, and chest pain. There are no ecological or environmental effects to ambient CO.
Very high levels of CO are not likely to occur outdoors. However, when CO levels are elevated outdoors, they can be of particular concern for people with some types of heart disease. These people already have a reduced ability for getting oxygenated blood to their hearts in situations where the heart needs more oxygen than usual. They are especially vulnerable to the effects of CO when exercising or under increased stress. In these situations, short-term exposure to elevated CO may result in reduced oxygen to the heart accompanied by chest pain also known as angina. Such acute effects may occur under current ambient conditions for some sensitive individuals, while increases in ambient CO levels increases the risk of such incidences.
CO concentrations tend to be highest in fall and winter and lowest in spring and summer. Over the longterm, CO concentrations have decreased throughout the United States. In California and Nevada, average concentrations of CO have reduced from approximately 333 parts per billion in 2000 to approximately 132 parts per billion in 2017.
Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is a brownish, highly reactive gas that is present in all urban atmospheres. The main effect of increased NO2 is the increased likelihood of respiratory problems. Under ambient conditions, NO2 can irritate the lungs, cause bronchitis and pneumonia, and lower resistance to respiratory infections. Nitrogen oxides are an important precursor both to ozone and acid rain, and may affect both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Longer exposures to elevated concentrations of NO2 may contribute to the development of asthma and potentially increase susceptibility to respiratory infections.
People with asthma, as well as children and the elderly are generally at greater risk for the health effects of NO2. The major mechanism for the formation of NO2 in the atmosphere is the oxidation of the primary air pollutant nitric oxide (NOx). NOx plays a major role, together with VOCs, in the atmospheric reactions that produce ozone. NOx forms when fuel is burned at high temperatures. The two major emission sources are transportation and stationary fuel combustion sources such as electric utility and industrial boilers.
NO2 concentrations tend to be highest in winter and lowest in summer. Over the long-term, nitrogen dioxide concentrations have generally been decreasing throughout the United States. Average concentrations of NO2 have reduced from approximately 69 parts per billion in 2000 to approximately 48 parts per billion in 2017, in California and Nevada (i.e. the West region, as defined by the EPA). Data from CARB shows an approximately 51 percent reduction in NO2 emissions in the SCAB region from 1992 to 2011.
Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is one of the multiple gaseous oxidized sulfur species and is formed during the combustion of fuels containing sulfur, primarily coal and oil. The largest anthropogenic source of SO2 emissions in the U.S. is fossil fuel combustion at electric utilities and other industrial facilities. SO2 is also
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1963 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-6 Air Quality
emitted from certain manufacturing processes and mobile sources, including locomotives, large ships, and construction equipment.
SO2 affects breathing and may aggravate existing respiratory and cardiovascular disease in high doses.
Sensitive populations include asthmatics, individuals with bronchitis or emphysema, children and the elderly. SO2 is also a primary contributor to acid deposition, or acid rain, which causes acidification of lakes and streams and can damage trees, crops, historic buildings, and statues. In addition, sulfur compounds in the air contribute to visibility impairment in large parts of the country. This is especially noticeable in national parks. Ambient SO2 results largely from stationary sources such as coal and oil combustion, steel mills, refineries, pulp and paper mills, and from nonferrous smelters.
Short-term exposure to ambient SO2 has been associated with various adverse health effects. Multiple human clinical studies, epidemiological studies, and toxicological studies support a causal relationship between short-term exposure to ambient SO2 and respiratory morbidity. The observed health effects include decreased lung function, respiratory symptoms, and increased emergency department visits and hospitalizations for all respiratory causes. These studies further suggest that people with asthma are potentially susceptible or vulnerable to these health effects. In addition, SO2 reacts with other air pollutants to form sulfate particles, which are constituents of fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Inhalation exposure to PM2.5 has been associated with various cardiovascular and respiratory health effects.
Increased ambient SO2 levels would lead to increased risk of such effects.
SO2 emissions that lead to high concentrations of SO2 in the air generally also lead to the formation of other sulfur oxides (SOx). SOx can react with other compounds in the atmosphere to form small particles.
These particles contribute to particulate matter (PM) pollution. Small particles may penetrate deeply into the lungs and in sufficient quantity can contribute to health problems.
Over the long-term, sulfur dioxide concentrations have decreased throughout the United States. At monitoring sites in California and Nevada (i.e. the West region, as defined by the EPA), average concentrations of SO2 have reduced from approximately 17.6 parts per billion in 2000 to approximately
6.2 parts per billion in 2017.
Particulate matter (PM) includes dust, dirt, soot, smoke and liquid droplets directly emitted into the air by sources such as factories, power plants, cars, construction activity, fires, and natural windblown dust.
Particles formed in the atmosphere by condensation or the transformation of emitted gases such as SO2 and VOCs are also considered particulate matter. PM is generally categorized based on the diameter of the particulate matter: PM10 is particulate matter 10 micrometers or less in diameter (known as respirable particulate matter), and PM2.5 is particulate matter 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter (known as fine particulate matter).
Based on studies of human populations exposed to high concentrations of particles (sometimes in the presence of SO2) and laboratory studies of animals and humans, there are major effects of concern for human health. These include effects on breathing and respiratory symptoms, aggravation of existing respiratory and cardiovascular disease, alterations in the body's defense systems against foreign materials, damage to lung tissue, carcinogenesis, and premature death. Small particulate pollution has
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1964 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-7 Air Quality
health impacts even at very low concentrations; no threshold has been identified below which no damage to health is observed.
Respirable particulate matter (PM10) consists of small particles, less than 10 microns in diameter, of dust, smoke, or droplets of liquid which penetrate the human respiratory system and cause irritation by themselves, or in combination with other gases. Particulate matter is caused primarily by dust from grading and excavation activities, from agricultural uses (as created by soil preparation activities, fertilizer and pesticide spraying, weed burning and animal husbandry), and from motor vehicles, particularly dieselpowered vehicles. PM10 causes a greater health risk than larger particles, since these fine particles can more easily penetrate the defenses of the human respiratory system.
Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) consists of small particles, which are less than 2.5 microns in size. Similar to PM10, these particles are primarily the result of combustion in motor vehicles, particularly diesel engines, as well as from industrial sources and residential/agricultural activities such as burning. It is also formed through the reaction of other pollutants. As with PM10, these particulates can increase the chance of respiratory disease, and cause lung damage and cancer. In 1997, the EPA created new Federal air quality standards for PM2.5. The major subgroups of the population that appear to be most sensitive to the effects of particulate matter include individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary or cardiovascular disease or influenza, asthmatics, the elderly, and children. Particulate matter also soils and damages materials, and is a major cause of visibility impairment.
Numerous studies have linked PM exposure to premature death in people with preexisting heart or lung disease, nonfatal heart attacks, irregular heartbeat, aggravated asthma, decreased lunch function, and increased respiratory symptoms. Studies show that every 1 microgram per cubic meter reduction in PM2.5 results in a one percent reduction in mortality rate for individuals over 30 years old. Long-term exposures, such as those experienced by people living for many years in areas with high particle levels, have been associated with problems such as reduced lung function and the development of chronic bronchitis, and even premature death. Additionally, depending on its composition, both PM10 and PM2.5 can also affect water quality and acidity, deplete soil nutrients, damage sensitive forests and crops, affect ecosystem diversity, and contribute to acid rain.
PM concentrations tend to be highest in winter and spring and lowest in summer. CARB identifies that total emissions of PM in the SCAB region have decreased from 88 tons/day in 2000 to 67 tons per day in 2015. Additionally, CARB forecasts that emissions of PM in the SCAB will remain relatively constant from 2015 to 2035 (increasing from 67 tons per day in 2015 to 71 tons per day in 2035).
Lead (Pb) exposure can occur through multiple pathways, including inhalation of air and ingestion of Pb in food, water, soil, or dust. Once taken into the body, lead distributes throughout the body in the blood and is accumulated in the bones. Depending on the level of exposure, lead can adversely affect the nervous system, kidney function, immune system, reproductive and developmental systems, and the cardiovascular system. Lead exposure also affects the oxygen carrying capacity of the blood. Excessive Pb exposure can cause seizures, mental retardation, and/or behavioral disorders. Low doses of Pb can lead
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1965 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-8 Air Quality
to central nervous system damage. Recent studies have also shown that Pb may be a factor in high blood pressure and subsequent heart disease.
Lead is persistent in the environment and can be added to soils and sediments through deposition from sources of lead air pollution. Other sources of lead to ecosystems include direct discharge of waste streams to water bodies and mining. Elevated lead in the environment can result in decreased growth and reproductive rates in plants and animals, and neurological effects in vertebrates.
Lead exposure is typically associated with industrial sources; major sources of lead in the air are ore and metals processing and piston-engine aircraft operating on leaded aviation fuel. Other sources are waste incinerators, utilities, and lead-acid battery manufacturers. The highest air concentrations of lead are usually found near lead smelte
from motor vehicle gasoline, levels of lead in the air decreased by 98 percent between 1980 and 2014.
Based on this reduction of lead in the air over this period, and since most new developments do not generate an increase in lead exposure, the health impacts of ambient lead levels are not typically monitored by CARB.
TOXIC AIR CONTAMINANTS
In addition to the criteria air pollutants listed above, another group of pollutants, commonly referred to as toxic air contaminants (TACs) or hazardous air pollutants can result in health effects that can be quite severe. Many TACs are confirmed or suspected carcinogens or are known or suspected to cause birth defects or neurological damage. Additionally, many TACs can be toxic at very low concentrations. For some chemicals, such as carcinogens, there are no thresholds below which exposure can be considered risk-free.
It is important to understand that TACs are not considered criteria air pollutants and thus, are not specifically addressed through the setting of ambient air quality standards. Instead, the EPA and CARB regulate hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) and TACs through statutes and regulations that generally require the use of the maximum or best available control technology (MACT and BACT) to limit emissions. MACT and BACT standards, in conjunction with additional rules set forth by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD), establish the regulatory framework for regulating TACs. The SCAQMD maintains approximately 23 rules regulating toxics and other non-criteria pollutants.
Industrial facilities and mobile sources are significant sources of TACs. Sources of TACs go beyond industry.
Various common urban facilities also produce TAC emissions, such as gasoline stations (benzene), hospitals (ethylene oxide), and dry cleaners (perchloroethylene). Automobile exhaust also contains TACs such as benzene and 1,3-butadiene. Diesel particulate matter has also been identified as a TAC by CARB.
Diesel PM differs from other TACs in that it is not a single substance, but rather a complex mixture of hundreds of substances. The SCAQMD research indicates that mobile-source emissions of diesel PM, benzene, and 1,3-butadiene represent a substantial portion of the ambient background risk from TACs in the SCAB.
Sensitive receptors, which include children, the sick, and the elderly, may be especially impacted by TACs.
Sensitive receptors located within San Jacinto include, but are not limited to: residences, schools, and senior care facilities. However, sources of TACs (such as industrial facilities and gasoline stations) are
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1966 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-9 Air Quality
generally located at a sufficient distance from sensitive receptors that the potential for substantial deleterious health effects to these sensitive receptors from TACs is minimized.
Examples of current SCAQMD Rules relating to TACs are as follows: SCAQMD Rule 1401 requires a new source review of TACs from new permit units, relocations, or modifications to existing permit units which emit TACs. Rule 1401.1 provides requirements for new and relocated TAC-emitting facilities near schools.
Rule 1403 provides work practice requirements to limit asbestos emissions from building demolition and renovation activities. Rule 1404 reduces the level of hexavalent chromium emissions allowed from cooling towers. Rule 1469-1 provides limitations on spraying operations using coatings containing chromium.
Additionally, Rule 1472 provides requirements for facilities with multiple stationary emergency standby diesel-fueled internal combustion engines.
Diesel Exhaust
According to the California Almanac of Emissions and Air Quality, the majority of the estimated health risks from TACs can be attributed to relatively few compounds, the most important being particulate matter from the exhaust of diesel-fueled engines, i.e., diesel particulate matter (DPM). DPM differs from other TACs in that it is not a single substance, but rather a complex mixture of hundreds of substances.
Diesel exhaust is composed of two phases, gas and particle, both of which contribute to health risks. The gas phase is composed of many of the urban hazardous air pollutants, such as acetaldehyde, acrolein, benzene, 1,3-butadiene, formaldehyde, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The particle phase is also composed of many different types of particles by size or composition. Fine and ultra-fine diesel particulates are of the greatest health concern, and may be composed of elemental carbon with adsorbed compounds such as organic compounds, sulfate, nitrate, metals, and other trace elements. Diesel exhaust is emitted from a broad range of diesel engines; the on-road diesel engines of trucks, buses, and cars and the off-road diesel engines that include locomotives, marine vessels, and heavy-duty equipment. Although DPM is emitted by diesel-fueled internal combustion engines, the composition of the emissions varies depending on engine type, operating conditions, fuel composition, lubricating oil, and whether an emission control system is present.
The most common exposure to DPM is breathing air that contains diesel exhaust. The fine and ultra-fine particles are respirable (similar to PM2.5), which means that they can avoid many of the human respiratory system defense mechanisms and enter deeply into the lung. Exposure to DPM comes from both on-road and off-road engine exhaust that is either directly emitted from the engines or lingering in the atmosphere.
Gasoline Exhaust
Similar to diesel exhaust, exhaust from gasoline-fueled engines is composed of two phases, gas and particle, both of which contribute to health risks. The gas phase is composed of the same hazardous air pollutants, such as acetaldehyde, acrolein, benzene, 1,3-butadiene, formaldehyde, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The particle phase is also composed of many different types of particles by size or composition. Fine and ultra-fine diesel particulates are of the greatest health concern, and may be composed of elemental carbon with adsorbed compounds such as organic compounds, sulfate, nitrate, metals, and other trace elements. Gasoline exhaust is primarily emitted from light-duty passenger
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1967 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-10 Air Quality
vehicles. The compounds in the gas and particles phases can cause health effects from short and longterm exposures.
Visibility Reducing Particles
Visibility-reducing particles are any particles in the atmosphere that obstruct the range of visibility by creating haze. These particles vary in shape, size, and chemical composition, and come from a variety of natural and manmade sources including windblown metals, soil, dust, salt, and soot. Other haze-causing particles are formed in the air from gaseous pollutant (e.g., sulfates, nitrates, organic carbon particles) which are the major constituents of fine PM, such as PM2.5 and PM10, and are caused from the combustion welfare effects, such as reduced visibility and damage to materials, plants, forests, and ecosystems.
ODORS
Typically, odors are regarded as an annoyance rather than a health hazard. However, manifestations of a physiological (e.g., circulatory and respiratory effects, nausea, vomiting, and headache).
With respect to odors, the human nose is the sole sensing device. The ability to detect odors varies considerably among the population and overall is quite subjective. Some individuals have the ability to smell minute quantities of specific substances; others may not have the same sensitivity but may have sensitivities to odors of other substances. In addition, people may have different reactions to the same odor; in fact, an odor that is offensive to one person (e.g., from a fast-food restaurant) may be perfectly acceptable to another.
It is also important to note that an unfamiliar odor is more easily detected and is more likely to cause complaints than a familiar one. This is because of the phenomenon known as odor fatigue, in which a person can become desensitized to almost any odor and recognition only occurs with an alteration in the intensity.
Quality and intensity are two properties present in any odor. The quality of an odor indicates the nature of the smell experience. For instance, if a person describes an odor as flowery or sweet, then the person is describing the quality of the odor. Intensity refers to the strength of the odor. For example, a person n odor. Odor intensity depends on the odorant
concentration in the air.
When an odorous sample is progressively diluted, the odorant concentration decreases. As this occurs, the odor intensity weakens and eventually becomes so low that the detection or recognition of the odor is quite difficult. At some point during dilution, the concentration of the odorant reaches a detection threshold. An odorant concentration below the detection threshold means that the concentration in the air is not detectable by the average human.
SENSITIVE RECEPTORS
Sensitive receptors are considered land uses or other types of population groups that are more sensitive to air pollution than others due to their exposure. Sensitive population groups include children, the
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1968 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-11 Air Quality
elderly, the acutely and chronically ill, and those with cardio-respiratory diseases. For CEQA purposes, a sensitive receptor would be a location where a sensitive individual could remain for 24-hours or longer, such as residencies, hospitals, and schools (etc.).
As a planning document, the General Plan Update identifies Land Use Designations within the Study Area, which specify the type of allowed uses associated with each designation. However, site-specific development is not proposed. San Jacinto has numerous sensitive land uses, in particular, residential communities. These sensitive land uses would continue to exist and new sensitive land uses are anticipated to occur within implementation of the General Plan Update. As a conservative estimate of impacts, sensitive receptors are anticipated to be located directly adjacent to new development.
AMBIENT AIR QUALITY
Attainment Status
The EPA and CARB designate air basins where ambient air quality standards are exceeded as inadequate or inconclusive data to make a definitive attainment designation, they are considered severe, or extreme as a function of deviation from standards. Each standard has a different definition, or - hour CO standard is not to be exceeded more than once per year; therefore, an area is in attainment of the CO standard if no more than one 8-hour ambient air monitoring values exceeds the threshold per year. In contrast, the federal annual PM2.5 standard is met if the three-year average of the annual average PM2.5 concentration is less than or equal to the standard. Table 5.3-2, South Coast Air Basin Attainment Status, lists the attainment status for the criteria pollutants in the basin.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1969 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-12 Air Quality
Table 5.3-2
South Coast Air Basin Attainment Status
Pollutant Standard1 Averaging
Time Designation2 Attainment Deadline Date3
1-Hour
Ozone
NAAQS
1979 1-Hour
(0.12 ppm) Nonattainment (Extreme) 2/6/2023(not attained)4 CAAQS 1-Hour
(0.09 ppm) Nonattainment N/A
8-Hour
Ozone5 NAAQS
1997 8-Hour
(0.08 ppm) Nonattainment (Extreme) 6/15/2024
NAAQS
2008 8-Hour
(0.075 ppm) Nonattainment (Extreme) 7/20/2032
NAAQS
2015 8-Hour
(0.070 ppm) Nonattainment (Extreme) 8/3/2038
CAAQS 8-Hour
(0.070 ppm) Nonattainment Beyond 2032
CO
NAAQS 1-Hour (35
ppm) Attainment (Maintenance) 6/11/2007 (attained)
CAAQS 8-Hour (9
ppm) Attainment 6/11/2007 (attained)
NO2
6 NAAQS 1-Hour (0.1
ppm) Unclassifiable/Attainment N/A (attained)
NAAQS
Annual
(0.053 ppm) Attainment (Maintenance) 9/22/1998 (attained) CAAQS
1-hour (0.18
ppm) Annual
(0.030 ppm)
Attainment - SO2
7 NAAQS 1-Hour (75
ppb)
Designations Pending
(expect Uncl./Attainment) N/A (attained)
NAAQS
24-Hour
(0.14 ppm)
Annual (0.03
ppm)
Unclassifiable/Attainment 3/19/1979 (attained)
PM10
NAAQS
1987 24-Hour
(150 µg/m3)
Attainment
(Maintenance)8
7/26/2013 (attained)
CAAQS
24-Hour (50
µg/m3
)
Annual (20
µg/m3
)
Nonattainment N/A
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1970 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-13 Air Quality
Table 5.3-2 (continued)
South Coast Air Basin Attainment Status
Pollutant Standard1 Averaging
Time Designation2 Attainment Deadline Date3 PM2.5 9 NAAQS 2006 24-Hour
(35 µg/m3) Nonattainment (Serious) 12/31/2019
NAAQS
1997 Annual
(15.0 µg/m3) Attainment 8/24/2016
NAAQS
2021 Annual
(12.0 µg/m3) Nonattainment (Serious) 12/31/2025
CAAQS
Annual
(12.0 µg/m3) Nonattainment N/A
Lead NAAQS
3-Months
Rolling
(0.15 µg/m3)
Nonattainment
(Partial)10 12/31/2015
Source: South Coast Air Quality Management District, National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and California Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS) Attainment Status for South Coast Air Basin, February 2016.
Notes: 1 NAAQS = National Ambient Air Quality Standards, CAAQS = California Ambient Air Quality Standards 2 U.S. EPA often only declares Nonattainment areas; everywhere else is listed as Unclassifiable/Attainment or Unclassifiable. 3
A design value below the NAAQS for data through the full year or smog season prior to the attainment date is typically required for attainment demonstration. 4
1-hour O3 standard (0.12 ppm) was revoked, effective June 15, 2005 ; however, the Basin has not attained this standard based on 2008-2010 data and is still subject to anti-backsliding requirements. 5 1997 8-hour O3 standard (0.08 ppm) was reduced (0.075 ppm), effective May 27, 2008; the revoked 1997 O3 standard is still subject to anti-backsliding requirements. 6 New NO2 1-hour standard, effective August 2, 2010; attainment designations January 20, 2012; annual NO2 standard retained. 7
The 1971 annual and 24-hour SO2 standards were revoked, effective August 23, 2010; however, these 1971 standards will remain in effect until one year after U.S. EPA promulgates area designations for the 2010 SO2 1-hour standard. Area designations are still pending, with Basin expected to be designated Unclassifiable /Attainment. 8 Annual PM10 standard was revoked, effective December 18, 2006; 24-hour PM10 NAAQS deadline was 12/31/2006; SCAQMD request for attainment redesignation and PM10 maintenance plan was approved by U.S. EPA on June 26, 2013, effective July 26, 2013. 9 Attainment deadline for the 2006 24-Hour PM2.5 NAAQS (designation effective December 14, 2009) is December 31, 2019 (end of the 10th calendar year after effective date of designations for Serious nonattainment areas). Annual PM2.5 standard was revised on January 15, 2013, effective March 18, 2013, from 15 to 12 µg/m3. Designations effective April 15, 2015, so Serious area attainment deadline is December 31, 2025. 10 Partial Nonattainment designation Los Angeles County portion of Basin only for near-source monitors. Expect redesignation to attainment based on current monitoring data.
Riverside County Monitoring
The SCAQMD is divided into 38 air-monitoring areas with a designated ambient air monitoring station representative of each area. The City of San Jacinto is in the Hemet-San Jacinto Valley (Area 28). The nearest air monitoring station is the Banning Station. The Banning Station is located approximately 11 miles northeast of the City of San Jacinto at 200 S. Hathaway Street in the City of Banning; however this
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1971 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-14 Air Quality
location does not provide all ambient weather data. Therefore, additional data was obtained from the SCAQMD historical data for the San Gorgonio Pass (Area 29) (SCAQMD historical data does not have Hemet-San Jacinto Valley SRA 28 listed; therefore, the next closest SRA was utilized) for both sulfur dioxide and carbon monoxide to provide the existing levels. Table 5.3-3, Local Air Quality Levels, presents the monitored pollutant levels within the vicinity. However, it should be noted that due to the air monitoring station distance from the City of San Jacinto, recorded air pollution levels at the air monitoring station reflect with varying degrees of accuracy, local air quality conditions at the Study Area.
The monitoring data presented in Table 5.3-3 shows that ozone and particulate matter (PM10) are the air pollutants of primary concern in the Study Area, which are detailed below.
Ozone
During the 2018 to 2020 monitoring period, the State 1-hour concentration standard for ozone has been exceeded between 24 and 33 days each year at the Banning Station. The State 8-hour ozone standard has been exceeded between 62 and 71 days each year over the past three years at the Banning Station. The Federal 8-hour ozone standard has been exceeded between 59 and 69 days each year over the past three years at the Banning Station.
Ozone is a secondary pollutant as it is not directly emitted. Ozone is the result of chemical reactions between other pollutants, most importantly hydrocarbons and NO2, which occur only in the presence of bright sunlight. Pollutants emitted from upwind cities react during transport downwind to produce the oxidant concentrations experienced in the area. Many areas of the SCAQMD contribute to the ozone levels experienced at the monitoring station, with the more significant areas being those directly upwind.
Carbon Monoxide
CO is another important pollutant that is due mainly to motor vehicles. The San Gorgonio Pass Area did not record an exceedance of the state or federal 1-hour or 8-hour CO standards for the last three years.
Nitrogen Dioxide
The Banning Station did not record an exceedance of the State or Federal NO2 standards for the last three years.
Sulfur Dioxide
The San Gorgonio Pass Area did not record an exceedance of the State SO2 standards for the last three years.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1972 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-15 Air Quality
Table 5.3-3
Local Area Air Quality Levels
Pollutant (Standard)1 Year
2018 2019 2020
Ozone:
Maximum 1-Hour Concentration (ppm) 0.119 0.119 0.150
Days > CAAQS (0.09 ppm) 33 24 29
Maximum 8-Hour Concentration (ppm) 0.106 0.096 0.115
Days > NAAQS (0.07 ppm) 69 59 68
Days > CAAQS (0.07 ppm) 69 62 71
Carbon Monoxide:
Maximum 1-Hour Concentration (ppm) * * *
Days > NAAQS (20 ppm) 0 0 0
Maximum 8-Hour Concentration (ppm) * * *
Days > NAAQS (9 ppm) 0 0 0
Nitrogen Dioxide:
Maximum 1-Hour Concentration (ppm) 0.051 0.056 0.051
Days > NAAQS (0.25 ppm) 0 0 0
Sulfur Dioxide:
Maximum 1-Hour Concentration (ppm) * * *
Days > CAAQS (0.25 ppm) 0 0 0
Inhalable Particulates (PM10):
Maximum 24-Hour Concentration (ug/m3) 39.3 63.8 69.3
Days > NAAQS (150 ug/m3) 0 0 0
Days > CAAQS (50 ug/m3) 0 2 1
Annual Average (ug/m3) 20.1 17.7 21.2
Annual > NAAQS (50 ug/m3) No No No
Annual > CAAQS (20 ug/m3) Yes No Yes
Ultra-Fine Particulates (PM2.5):
Maximum 24-Hour Concentration (ug/m3) 32.0 23.4 46.7
Days > NAAQS (35 ug/m3) * * * Annual Average (ug/m3
) * 9.5 10.5
Annual > NAAQS (15 ug/m3) * No No
Annual > CAAQS (12 ug/m3) * No No
Source: South Coast Air Quality Management District, Historical Air Quality Data by Year, https://www.aqmd.gov/home/air-quality/historical-air-quality-data/historical-data-by-year, accessed October 25, 2021.
Notes: 1 CAAQS = California Ambient Air Quality Standard; NAAQS = National Ambient Air Quality Standard; ppm = parts per million
2 No data available.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1973 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-16 Air Quality
Particulate Matter
During the 2018 to 2020 monitoring period, the State 24-hour concentration standard for PM10 was exceeded for two days in 2019 and one day in 2020 at the Banning Station. Over the same time period, the Federal 24-hour and annual standards for PM10 have not been exceeded at the Banning Station.
During the 2018 to 2020 monitoring period, there was insufficient data for the Federal 24-hour standard for PM2.5 at the Banning Station.
According to the EPA, some people are much more sensitive than others to breathing fine particles (PM10 and PM2.5). People with influenza, chronic respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, and the elderly may suffer worsening illness and premature death due to breathing these fine particles. People with bronchitis can expect aggravated symptoms from breathing in fine particles. Children may experience decline in lung function due to breathing in PM10 and PM2.5. Other groups considered sensitive are smokers and people who cannot breathe well through their noses. Exercising athletes are also considered sensitive, because many breathe through their mouths during exercise.
5.3.3 REGULATORY SETTING
FEDERAL
Clean Air Act
The Federal Clean Air Act (FCAA) was first signed into law in 1970. In 1977, and again in 1990, the law was substantially amended. The FCAA is the foundation for a national air pollution control effort, and it is composed of the following basic elements: NAAQS for criteria air pollutants, hazardous air pollutant standards, state attainment plans, motor vehicle emissions standards, stationary source emissions standards and permits, acid rain control measures, stratospheric ozone protection, and enforcement provisions.
The EPA is responsible for administering the FCAA. The FCAA requires the EPA to set NAAQS for several problem air pollutants based on human health and welfare criteria. Two types of NAAQS were established:
primary standards, which protect public health (with an adequate margin of safety, including for sensitive populations such as children, the elderly, and individuals suffering from respiratory diseases), and secondary standards, which protect the public welfare from non-health-related adverse effects such as visibility reduction.
NAAQS standards define clean air and represent the maximum amount of pollution that can be present in outdoor air without any harmful effects on people and the environment. Existing violations of the ozone and PM2.5 ambient air quality standards indicate that certain individuals exposed to these pollutants may experience certain health effects, including increased incidence of cardiovascular and respiratory ailments.
NAAQS standards have been designed to accurately reflect the latest scientific knowledge and are reviewed every five years by a Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee (CASAC), consisting of seven members appointed by the EPA administrator. Reviewing NAAQS is a lengthy undertaking and includes the following major phases: Planning, Integrated Science Assessment (ISA), Risk/Exposure Assessment
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1974 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-17 Air Quality
(REA), Policy Assessment (PA), and Rulemaking. The process starts with a comprehensive review of the relevant scientific literature. The literature is summarized and conclusions are presented in the ISA. Based on the ISA, EPA staff perform a risk and exposure assessment, which is summarized in the REA document.
The third document, the PA, integrates the findings and conclusions of the ISA and REA into a policy context, and provides lines of reasoning that could be used to support retention or revision of the existing NAAQS, as well as several alternative standards that could be supported by the review findings. Each of these three documents is released for public comment and public peer review by CASAC. Members of CASAC are appointed by the EPA Administrator for their expertise in one or more of the subject areas covered i
the thinking of the scientific community, and advise the Administrator on the technical and scientific aspects of standard setting. Each document goes through two to three drafts before CASAC deems it to be final.
Although there is some variability among the health effects of the NAAQS pollutants, each has been linked to multiple adverse health effects including, among others, premature death, hospitalizations, and emergency department visits for exacerbated chronic disease, and increased symptoms such as coughing and wheezing. NAAQS standards were last revised for each of the six criteria pollutants as listed below, with detail on what aspects of NAAQS changed during the most recent update:
Ozone: On October 1, 2015, the EPA lowered the national eight-hour standard from 0.075 ppm to
0.070 ppm, providing for a more stringent standard consistent with the current California state standard.
CO: In 2011, the primary standards were retained from the original 1971 level, without revision.
The secondary standards were revoked in 1985.
NO2: The national NO2 standard was most recently revised in 2010 following an exhaustive review of new literature pointed to evidence for adverse effects in asthmatics at lower NO2 concentrations than the existing national standard.
SO2: On June 2, 2010, a new 1-hour SO2 standard was established and the existing 24-hour and annual primary standards were revoked. To attain the 1-hour national standard, the 3-year average of the annual 99th percentile of the 1-hour daily maximum concentrations at each site must not exceed 75 ppb.
PM: the national annual average PM2.5 standard was most recently revised in 2012 following an exhaustive review of new literature pointed to evidence for increased risk of premature mortality at lower PM2.5 concentrations than the existing standard.
Lead: The national standard for lead was revised on October 15, 2008 to a rolling 3-month average. In 2016, the primary and secondary standards were retained.
The law recognizes the importance for each state to locally carry out the requirements of the FCAA, as special consideration of local industries, geography, housing patterns, etc. are needed to have full comprehension of the local pollution control problems. As a result, the EPA requires each state to develop a State Implementation Plan (SIP) that explains how each state will implement the FCAA within their jurisdiction. A SIP is a collection of rules and regulations that a particular state will implement to control
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1975 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-18 Air Quality
air quality within their jurisdiction. The CARB is the state agency that is responsible for preparing and implementing the California SIP.
Transportation Conformity
Transportation conformity requirements were added to the FCAA in the 1990 amendments, and the EPA adopted implementing regulations in 1997. See Section 176 of the FCAA (42 U.S.C. Section 7506) and 40 CFR Part 93, Subpart A. Transportation conformity serves much the same purpose as general conformity:
it ensures that transportation plans, transportation improvement programs, and projects that are developed, funded, or approved by the United States Department of Transportation or that are recipients of funds under the Federal Transit Act or from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), conform to the SIP as approved or promulgated by EPA.
Currently, transportation conformity applies in nonattainment areas and maintenance areas (maintenance areas are those areas that were in nonattainment that have been redesignated to attainment, under the FCCA). Under transportation conformity, a determination of conformity with the applicable SIP must be made by the agency responsible for the project, such as the Metropolitan Planning Organization, the Council of Governments, or a federal agency. The agency making the determination is also responsible for all the requirements relating to public participation. Generally, a project will be considered in conformance if it is in the transportation improvement plan and the transportation improvement plan is incorporated in the SIP. If an action is covered under transportation conformity, it does not need to be separately evaluated under general conformity.
Transportation Control Measures
One particular aspect of the SIP development process is the consideration of potential control measures as a part of making progress towards clean air goals. While most SIP control measures are aimed at reducing emissions from stationary sources, some are typically also created to address mobile or transportation sources. These are known as transportation control measures (TCMs). TCM strategies are designed to reduce vehicle miles traveled and trips, or vehicle idling and associated air pollution. These goals are achieved by developing attractive and convenient alternatives to single-occupant vehicle use.
Examples of TCMs include ridesharing programs, transportation infrastructure improvements such as adding bicycle and carpool lanes, and expansion of public transit.
STATE
California Clean Air Act
The California Clean Air Act (CCAA) was first signed into law in 1988. The CCAA provides a comprehensive planning and regulatory strategies, and performance. CARB is the agency responsible for administering the CCAA. CARB established ambient air quality standards pursuant to the California Health and Safety Code (CH&SC) [Section 39606(b)], which are similar to the federal standards.
California Air Quality Standards
Although NAAQS are determined by the EPA, states have the ability to set standards that are more stringent than the federal standards. As such, California established more stringent ambient air quality
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1976 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-19 Air Quality
standards. Federal and State ambient air quality standards have been established for ozone, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, suspended particulates (PM10), and lead. In addition, California has created standards for pollutants that are not covered by federal standards. Although there is some variability among the health effects of the CAAQS pollutants, each has been linked to multiple adverse health effects including, among others, premature death, hospitalizations, and emergency department visits for exacerbated chronic disease, and increased symptoms such as coughing and wheezing. The existing state and federal primary standards for major pollutants are shown in Table 5.3-3.
Air quality standard setting in California commences with a critical review of all relevant peer reviewed scientific literature. The Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) uses the review of health literature to develop a recommendation for the standard. The recommendation can be for no change, or can recommend a new standard. The review, including the OEHHA recommendation, is summarized in a document called the draft Initial Statement of Reasons (ISOR), which is released for comment by the public, and also for public peer review by the Air Quality Advisory Committee (AQAC). AQAC members are appointed by the President of the University of California for their expertise in the range of subjects covered in the ISOR, including health, exposure, air quality monitoring, atmospheric chemistry and physics, and effects on plants, trees, materials, and ecosystems. The Committee provides written comments on the draft ISOR. CARB staff next revises the ISOR based on comments from AQAC and the public. The revised ISOR is then released for a 45-day public comment period prior to consideration by the Board at a regularly scheduled Board hearing.
In June of 2002, CARB adopted revisions to the PM10 standard and established a new PM2.5 annual standard. The new standards became effective in June 2003. Subsequently, staff reviewed the published scientific literature on ground-level ozone and nitrogen dioxide and CARB adopted revisions to the standards for these two pollutants. Revised standards for ozone and nitrogen dioxide went into effect on May 17, 2006 and March 20, 2008, respectively. These revisions reflect the most recent changes to the CAAQS.
CARB Mobile-Source Regulation
The State of California is responsible for controlling emissions from the operation of motor vehicles in the vehicle standards specify the allowable grams of pollution per mile driven. In other words, the regulations focus on the reductions needed rather than on the manner in which they are achieved. Towards this end, CARB has adopted regulations which required auto manufacturers to phase in less polluting vehicles.
CARB Air Quality and Land Use Handbook
Air Quality and Land Use Handbook: A Community Health Perspective addresses the importance of considering health risk issues when siting sensitive land uses, including residential development, in the vicinity of intensive air pollutant emission sources including freeways or high-traffic roads, distribution centers, ports, petroleum refineries, chrome plating operations, dry cleaners, and gasoline dispensing facilities. The CARB Handbook draws upon studies evaluating the health effects of traffic traveling on major interstate highways in metropolitan California centers within Los Angeles (Interstate [I] 405 and I710), the San Francisco Bay, and San Diego areas. The recommendations identified by CARB, including
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1977 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-20 Air Quality
siting residential uses a minimum distance of 500 feet from freeways or other high-traffic roadways, are consistent with those adopted by the State of California for location of new schools. Specifically, the CARB with 100,000 vehicles/day, or rural roads with 50,000 vehicles/day.
Tanner Air Toxics Act
California regulates TACs primarily through the Tanner Air Toxics Act (AB 1807) and the Air Toxics Hot Spots Information and Assessment Act of 1987 (AB 2588). The Tanner Act sets forth a formal procedure for CARB to designate substances as TACs. This includes research, public participation, and scientific peer review before CARB can designate a substance as a TAC. To date, CARB has identified more than 21 TACs and has ado
Once a TAC is identified, CARB then adopts an Airborne Toxics Control Measure (ATCM) for sources that emit that particular TAC. If there is a safe threshold for a substance at which there is no toxic effect, the control measure must reduce exposure below that threshold. If there is no safe threshold, the measure must incorporate Best Available Control Technology (BACT) to minimize emissions.
AB 2588 requires that existing facilities that emit toxic substances above a specified level prepare a toxicemission inventory, prepare a risk assessment if emissions are significant, notify the public of significant risk levels, and prepare and implement risk reduction measures. CARB has adopted diesel exhaust control measures and more stringent emission standards for various on-road mobile sources of emissions, including transit buses and off-road diesel equipment (e.g., tractors, generators). In February 2000, CARB adopted a new public-transit bus-fleet rule and emission standards for new urban buses. These rules and standards provide for (1) more stringent emission standards for some new urban bus engines, beginning with 2002 model year engines; (2) zero-emission bus demonstration and purchase requirements applicable to transit agencies; and (3) reporting requirements under which transit agencies must demonstrate compliance with the urban transit bus fleet rule. Other recent milestones include the lowsulfur diesel-fuel requirement, and tighter emission standards for heavy-duty diesel trucks (2007) and offroad diesel equipment (2011) nationwide.
LOCAL
South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD)
The SCAQMD shares responsibility with CARB for ensuring that all state and federal ambient air quality standards are achieved and maintained over an area of approximately 10,743 square miles. This area includes all of Orange County and Los Angeles County except for the Antelope Valley, the non-desert portion of western San Bernardino County, and the western and Coachella Valley portions of Riverside County.
The SCAQMD reviews projects to ensure that they do not (1) cause or contribute to any new violation of any air quality standard; (2) increase the frequency or severity of any existing violation of any air quality standard; or (3) delay the timely attainment of any air quality standard or any required interim emission reductions or other milestones of any federal attainment plan.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1978 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-21 Air Quality
The SCAQMD is responsible for controlling emissions primarily from stationary sources. The SCAQMD maintains air quality monitoring stations throughout SCAB. In coordination with the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), SCAQMD is also responsible for developing, updating, and implementing the Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP) for SCAB. An AQMP is a plan prepared and implemented by an air pollution district for a county or region designated as nonattainment of the national and/or California ambient air quality standards.
In 2003, an AQMP was prepared by SCAQMD to bring SCAB, as well as portions of the Salton Sea Air Basin under the SCAQMD jurisdiction, into compliance with the 1-hour ozone and PM10 national standards. The 2003 AQMP also replaced the 1997 attainment demonstration for the federal CO standard and provided a basis for a maintenance plan for CO for the future. It also updated the maintenance plan for the federal NO2 standard, which SCAB has met since 1992.
A subsequent AQMP for the Basin was adopted by the SCAQMD on June 1, 2007. The goal of the 2007 AQMP was to lead SCAB into compliance with the national 8-hour ozone and PM2.5 standards. The 2007 AQMP outlined a detailed strategy for meeting the national health-based standards for PM2.5 by 2015 and 8-hour ozone by 2024 while accounting for and accommodating future expected growth. The 2007 AQMP incorporated significant new emissions inventories, ambient measurements, scientific data, control strategies, and air quality modeling. Most of the reductions were to be from mobile sources, which are currently responsible for about 75 percent of all smog and particulate-forming emissions.
SCAQMD approved the 2012 AQMP on December 7, 2012. The 2012 AQMP incorporated the latest scientific and technological information and planning assumptions, including the 2012 2035 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS) and updated emission inventory methodologies for various source categories. The 2012 AQMP outlines a comprehensive control strategy that meets the requirement for expeditious progress toward attainment with the 24-hour PM2.5 federal ambient air quality standard with all feasible control measures and demonstrates attainment of the standard by 2014. The 2012 AQMP also updates the 8-hour ozone control plan with new emission 182 (e)(5) commitments. The goal of the Final 2012 AQMP is to lead the Basin into compliance with the national 8-hour ozone and PM2.5 standards.
SCAQMD approved the Final 2016 AQMP on March 3, 2017. The 2016 AQMP includes transportation control measures developed by SCAG from the 2016 2040 RTP/SCS, as well as the integrated strategies and measures needed to meet the NAAQS. The 2016 AQMP demonstrates attainment of the 1-hour and 8-hour ozone NAAQS as well as the latest 24-hour and annual PM2.5 standards.
SCAQMD has also prepared the 2010 Clean Communities Plan (Formerly the Air Toxics Control Plan), the Air Quality Monitoring Network Plan, the Vision for Air: A Framework for Air Quality and Climate Plan.
The SCAQMD is responsible for limiting the amount of emissions that can be generated throughout the basin by various stationary, area, and mobile sources. Specific rules and regulations have been adopted by the SCAQMD Governing Board that (1) limit the emissions that can be generated by various uses and activities; and (2) identify specific pollution reduction measures, which must be implemented in association with various uses and activities. These rules regulate the emissions of not only the federal and
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1979 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-22 Air Quality
state criteria pollutants, but also TACs and acutely hazardous materials. The rules are also subject to ongoing refinement by the SCAQMD.
Among the SCAQMD rules that may be applicable to future development projects within the Study Area are Rule 401 (Visible Emissions), Rule 402 (Nuisance), Rule 403 (Fugitive Dust), Rule 1113 (Architectural Coatings), Rule 1138 (Control of Emissions from Restaurant Operations), Rule 1146.2 (Emissions of Oxides of Nitrogen from Large Water Heaters and Small Boilers and Process Heaters), and Rule 1403 (Asbestos Emissions from Demolition/Renovation Activities). Rule 401 restricts the emissions of air contaminants that significantly reduce air opacity. Rule 402 restricts discharges that cause nuisance to the public. Rule 403 requires the use of stringent best available control measures (BACMs) to minimize PM10 emissions during grading and construction activities. Rule 1113 requires reductions in the VOC content of coatings.
Rule 1138 specifies PM and VOC emissions and odor control requirements for some kinds of commercial cooking operations. Rule 1146.2 restricts the NOx emissions from natural gas-fired water heaters, boilers, and process heaters as defined by this rule. Compliance with SCAQMD Rule 1403 requires the owner or operator of any demolition or renovation activity to have an asbestos survey performed prior to demolition and to provide notification to the SCAQMD prior to commencing demolition activities.
CEQA guidelines are voluntary initiatives recommended for consideration by local planning agencies. The CEQA Air Quality Handbook (Handbook) published by SCAQMD provides local governments with guidance for analyzing and mitigating project-specific air quality impacts. SCAQMD is currently updating some of the information and methods in the Handbook, such as the screening tables for determining the air quality significance of a project and the on-road mobile source emission factors. While this process is underway, the SCAQMD recommends using other approved models to calculate emissions from land use projects, such as CalEEMod.
The SCAQMD Guidance Document for Addressing Air Quality Issues in General Plans and Local Planning considers impacts on air quality sensitive receptors from TACdistance recommendations are the same as those provided by the CARB (e.g., a 500-foot siting distance for air quality sensitive receptors proposed in proximity to freeways and high-traffic roads, and the same siting criteria for distribution centers and dry-cleaning facilities).
Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS)
SCAG is the metropolitan planning organization (MPO) for the region in which the City of San Jacinto is located. In 2020, SCAG adopted Connect SoCal, the 2020-2045 RTP/SCS, which is an update to the previous 2016 RTP/SCS.
The 2020 RTP/SCS considers the role of transportation in the broader context of economic, environmental, and quality-of-life goals for the future, identifying regional transportation strategies to address mobility needs. The 2020 RTP/SCS describes how the region can attain the GHG emissionreduction targets set by CARB by achieving a 19 percent reduction by 2035 compared to the 2005 level.
Although the focus of the 2020 RTP/SCS is on GHG emission-reduction, compliance with and implementation of 2020 RTP/SCS policies and strategies would also have co-benefits of reducing per capita criteria air pollutant and TAC emissions associated with reduced per capita vehicle miles traveled
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1980 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-23 Air Quality
(VMT). Improved air quality with implementation of the 2020 RTP/SCS policies would decrease reactive organic gases (ROG) (i.e., VOCs), CO, NOx, and PM2.5. provides specific strategies for successful implementation. These strategies include implementing the Sustainable Communities Program (SCP) Housing and Sustainable Development (HSD) which will both accelerate housing production as well as enable implementation of the Sustainable Communities Strategy of Connect SoCal; encouraging use of active transportation, or human powered transportation such as bicycles, tricycles, wheelchairs, electric wheelchairs/scooters, skates, and skateboards; and supporting alternative fueled vehicles. The 2020 RTP/SCS overall land use pattern reinforces the trend of focusing new housing and employment in infill areas well served by transit.
In addition, the 2020 RTP/SCS includes goals and strategies to promote active transportation and improve transportation demand management (TDM). The 2020 RTP/SCS strategies support local planning and projects that serve short trips, increase access to transit, expand understanding and consideration of public health in the development of local plans and projects, and support improvements in sidewalk quality, local bike networks, and neighborhood mobility areas. The 2020 RTP/SCS proposes to better align active transportation investments with land use and transportation strategies, increase competitiveness of local agencies for federal and state funding, and to expand the potential for all people to use active transportation.
Riverside County General Plan
Riverside County adopted its most current General Plan in 2015, with a number of amendments since that Circulation, Multipurpose Open Space, Safety, Noise, Housing, Air Quality, Healthy Communities, and Administration.
5.3.4 SIGNIFICANCE CRITERIA AND THRESHOLDS
Consistent with Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines and the SCAQMD thresholds of significance, the project will have a significant impact on the environment associated with air quality if it will:
Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan; Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is in non-attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard; Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations; and/or Result in other emissions (such as those leading to odors) adversely affecting a substantial number of people.
METHODOLOGY AND ASSUMPTIONS
A brief discussion of the methodology and assumptions used to estimate proposed P emissions is provided below. For further detail on air emissions modeling parameters and assumptions, and other related calculations; refer to Appendix B, Air Quality Report.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1981 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-24 Air Quality
Construction
Construction of the growth anticipated by implementation of the General Plan Update would have the potential to temporarily emit criteria air pollutant emissions through the use of heavy-duty construction equipment, such as excavators, cranes, and forklifts, and through vehicle trips generated from workers and haul trucks traveling to and from project sites. In addition, fugitive dust emissions would result from demolition and various soil-handling activities. Construction emissions of VOC, NOx, CO, SO2, PM10 and PM2.5 are included in this analysis. Construction emissions can vary substantially from day-to-day, depending on the intensity and specific type of construction activity. The maximum daily regional emissions are predicted values for the worst-case day and do not represent the emissions that would actually occur during every day of construction.
The proposed General Plan Update is a planning-level document, and, as such, there are no specific projects, project construction dates, or specific construction plans identified. Therefore, quantification of emissions associated with buildout cannot be specifically determined at this time. However, the type and size of total anticipated growth is known. Construction emissions are based on the type and amount of off-road construction equipment and the scope of future development that could be allowed under the General Plan Update. Therefore, since CalEEMod provides default construction scenarios based on size and land use type, a reasonable worst case annual construction scenario was analyzed to provide an idea of daily emissions that could occur due to construction under the proposed Project.1 Buildout of the General Plan Update (based on the land use assumptions provided by the proposed Project) expected to occur by 2040 were modeled in CalEEMod.2
Construction was estimated to begin in June of 2020 and continue throughout 2040. Emission calculations assumed construction in 2021 as a conservative peak emissions year. In a year later, construction emissions would be less because cleaner construction equipment and vehicle fleet mix are expected as a result of State regulations that require cleaner construction equipment to be phased-in for heavy-duty equipment. Thus, construction emissions occurring in later years would be less than the impacts disclosed herein.
Construction activities were modeled to include site preparation, excavation/grading, building construction, paving, and architectural coating. CalEEMod defaults were used to determine construction equipment based on the type of construction. Modeling assumed the land uses contained in Table 3-4 of Section 3.0, Project Description. Daily regional criteria air pollutant emissions for the different phases of construction were forecast based on construction activities, on-road and off-road mobile sources, and fugitive dust emission factors associated with the specific construction activity. Off-road mobile source emissions would result from the 1 Note that CalEEMod estimates daily emissions based on the size and type of the development, the number of days that would be needed to complete the activity (CalEEMod default), and the amount of equipment that would be needed to accomplish construction (CalEEMod default). 2
For the sake of a conservative analysis, the modeling for both project construction and operational phases account for total development that is projected to exist in the Study Area at 2040 buildout, which includes both current development and all development that would occur in the Study Area in year 2040. This acts as a proxy for the - for the purposes of CEQA analysis.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1982 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-25 Air Quality
use of heavy-duty construction equipment such as bulldozers, loaders, and cranes. These off-road mobile sources emit VOC, NOx, CO, SO2, PM10 and PM2.5. The emissions were estimated using CalEEMod (v.2020.4.0) software, an emissions inventory software program recommended by SCAQMD. CalEEMod is based on outputs from the OFFROAD model and Emission Factor (EMFAC) model, which are emissions estimation models developed by CARB and used to calculate emissions from construction activities, heavy-duty off-road equipment, and on-road vehicles. Activities parameters, such as number of equipment and equipment usage hours were included.
Fugitive dust emissions (using PM10 as a surrogate) during construction activities were estimated in CalEEMod, which are based on the methods described in the EPA AP-42 Compilation of Air Pollutant Emission Factors. During the application of architectural coatings, evaporation of solvents contained in surface coatings result in VOC emissions. CalEEMod was used to calculate VOC emissions based on the tewide limits.
On-road mobile sources during construction also have the potential to generate temporary criteria air pollutant emissions through worker vehicles and haul trucks traveling to and from project sites during construction. Mobile source emissions were calculated using VMT data in the Transportation Impact Assessment developed for the proposed Project (Kittelson & Associates 2021). CalEEMod default vehicle trips and trip lengths were used.
Operational
Operation of development contemplated by the General Plan Update would generate criteria air pollutant emissions from vehicle trips throughout the City, energy sources, such as natural gas combustion, and area sources, such as operation of landscaping equipment and use of consumer products, including solvents used in non-industrial applications which emit VOCs during their product use, such as cleaning supplies, kitchen aerosols, cosmetics, and toiletries. Operational impacts were assessed for the General Plan Update buildout year of 2040, inclusive of all development within San Jacinto projected to exist at that time. Daily maximum criteria air pollutant emissions were compared with the SCAQMD operational thresholds to determine the operational impacts of the General Plan Update.
The operational area emissions from the future development accommodated by the General Plan Update were estimated using the CalEEMod software. Area source emissions are based on hearth emissions, architectural coatings, landscaping equipment, and consumer product usage rates provided in CalEEMod.
CalEEMod default values were used for area source emissions except that wood stoves and wood fireplaces were removed from the emissions calculations as they are not permitted within SCAQMD jurisdiction.
Intersection Hot Spots
Operation of the future development accommodated under the General Plan Update has the potential to generate traffic congestion and increase delay times at intersections within the Study Area. The pollutant of primary concern when assessing the impacts at local intersections is carbon monoxide because an elevated concentration of CO tends to accumulate near areas of heavy traffic congestion and where average vehicle speeds are low. Tailpipe emissions are of concern when assessing localized impacts of CO along paved roads.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1983 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-26 Air Quality
NAAQS or CAAQS. SCAQMD does not currently have guidance for conducting intersection hot spot analysis. However, Caltrans has guidance for evaluating CO hot spots in their Transportation Project-Level Carbon Monoxide Protocol (CO Protocol). Detailed guidance discussing which modeling programs to use, calculating emission rates, receiver placement, calculating 1-hour and 8-hour concentrations, and utilizing The potential for future development accommodated by the General Plan Update to cause or contribute Impact Assessment (Kittelson & Associates 2021) with prior studies conducted by SCAQMD in support of their AQMPs and considering existing background CO concentrations.
Toxic Air Contaminant Impacts (Construction and Operation) Construction and operational activities have the potential to result in health risk impacts (cancer, or other acute or chronic conditions) related to TACs exposure from airborne emissions, specifically the emissions of DPM. Health risk from TACs exposure is a cumulative localized impact-based exposure of nearby sensitive receptors to specific construction activities as well as on location to the construction and operational activities that emit TACs. To determine the magnitude of health risks associated with TACs exposure, a Health Risk Assessment (HRA) is required. HRAs include dispersion modeling of TACs and in order to determine the specific numerical cancer and non-cancer (acute and chronic) risks associated with the TACs on nearby individual receptors (including residences and workers). In order to accurately model the magnitude of TAC exposure on individual receptors, the following information is required:
Type of TACs emitted during construction and operational activities (e.g. diesel particulate matter, benzene, acrolein, aniline, etc.) (note: there are 187 hazardous air pollutants currently regulated by the EPA that are considered TACs);
TACs source location(s) and configuration (note: this is typically provided by the project applicant for the operational phase via a site plan and detail on the specific project type, and for the construction phase via construction plans);
TAC emissions rate(s);
TAC release height(s); and
The precise location of nearby residential and workplace receptors.
This information is incorporated into dispersion modeling software (such as AERMOD), which is used in conjunction with facility health risk assessment software (such as the Hotspots Analysis and Reporting Program, otherwise known as HARP-2). The results of such analysis provide a numerical estimate of maximum health risks, which are incorporated into the HRA (with detailed methodology and a list of assumptions provided). However, since the General Plan Update is a long-range planning document and therefore does not provide sufficient detail on specific development projects that would potentially occur as part of implementation of the General Plan Update (such as providing detailed information on the type, location, and sizing of potential sources of TACs such as warehouses, gasoline/diesel refueling stations, light industrial facilities, etc.), there is insufficient information available at this level of analysis to conduct a reasonable or scientifically valid analysis of TACs. Specific development projects in San Jacinto that have
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1984 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-27 Air Quality
the potential to generate potentially significant risks associated with the release of TACs are required to undergo an analysis of their potential health risks associated with TACs, based upon the specific details of each individual project.
Overall, because there are no specific development projects identified or approved under the General Plan Update, the location of the development projects, and the exact nature of the development are unknown, determining health risk as this time is speculative. Therefore, the analysis of TAC health risk is discussed qualitatively in this analysis.
5.3.5 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
AQ-1: Would the project conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan?
Impact Analysis: The following analysis addresses the consistency with applicable plans and policies that govern air quality. In particular, the analysis addresses consistency with the applicable ozone, PM10, and PM2.5 standards.
As discussed above, SCAQMD has adopted a series of AQMPs to lead the Air Basin into compliance with several criteria air pollutant standards and other federal requirements, while taking into account construction and operational emissions associated with population and economic growth projections The SCAQMD recommends that, when determining whether a project is consistent with the relevant AQMPs, the lead agency should assess whether the project would directly obstruct implem
to any criteria air pollutant for which it is currently not in attainment of the NAAQS and CAAQS (e.g., ozone, PM10, and PM2.5) and whether it is consistent with the demographic and economic assumptions (typically land use related, such as employment and population/residential units) upon which the plan is based. The SCAQMD guidance indicates that projects whose growth is included in the projections used in the formulation of the AQMP are considered to be consistent with the plan and would not interfere with its attainment.
The SCAQMD thresholds for construction and operational emissions are designed for the analysis of individual projects and not for long-term planning documents, such as the General Plan Update, which would be implemented over a 20-year period. Emissions are dependent on the exact size, nature, and location of an individual land use type, combined with reductions in localized impacts from the removal of existing land use types, as applicable (i.e. conversion of light industrial uses). Emissions associated with the operation of individual projects, could exceed project-specific thresholds established by SCAQMD.
CEQA requires that general plans be evaluated for consistency with the AQMP. Because the AQMP strategy is based on projections from local general plans, only new or amended general plan elements, specific plans, or individual projects under the general plan need to undergo a consistency review. Projects considered consistent with the local general plan are consistent with the air quality-related regional plan.
Indicators of consistency include:
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1985 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-28 Air Quality
Control Strategies: Whether implementation of a project would increase the frequency or severity of existing air quality violations; would cause or contribute to new violations; or would delay the timely attainment of AAQS or interim emissions reductions within the AQMP.
Growth Projections: Whether implementation of the project would exceed growth assumptions within the AQMP, which in part, bases its strategy on growth forecasts from local general plans.
CONSTRUCTION
Control Strategies
The Air Basin is designated nonattainment for ozone and PM2.5 under the CAAQS and NAAQS, and nonattainment for PM10 under the CAAQS. Future development accommodated by the General Plan Update involves long-term growth associated with buildout of the City of San Jacinto. Therefore, the emissions of criteria pollutants associated with future developments under the General Plan Update could exceed the SCAQMD thresholds for criteria pollutants. Future development of individual projects under the General Plan Update -term
emissions from on-road and off-road diesel equipment, including the ATCM to limit heavy-duty diesel motor vehicle idling to no more than five
as Rule 403 for controlling fugitive dust and Rule 1113 for controlling VOC emissions from architectural coatings. Furthermore, as applicable to the type of growth, individual projects under the proposed General Plan Update would comply with fleet rules to reduce on-road truck emissions (i.e., 13 CCR, Section 2025 (CARB Truck and Bus regulation)). Compliance with these measures and requirements would be consistent with and meet or exceed the AQMP requirements for control strategies intended to reduce emissions from construction equipment and activities. Therefore, the construction anticipated by the proposed would be consistent with the AQMP under the first indicator.
Growth Projections
Implementation of the General Plan Update would result in an increase in short-term employment compared to existing conditions. Future development accommodated by the General Plan Update would involve construction, but implementation of the General Plan Update would not necessarily create new construction jobs, since construction-related jobs generated by future development would likely be filled by employees within the construction industry within the City of San Jacinto and the greater Riverside County region. Construction industry jobs generally have no regular place of business, as construction workers commute to job sites throughout a given region, which may change several times a year.
Moreover, these jobs would be temporary in nature. Therefore, the construction jobs generated by future development accommodated by the General Plan Update would not conflict with the long-term employment or population projections upon which the AQMPs are based.
OPERATION
Control Strategies
Future development under the General Plan Update would be required to comply with CARB motor vehicle standards, SCAQMD regulations for stationary sources and architectural coatings, Title 24 energy efficiency standards, and, to the extent applicable, the 2020 RTP/SCS.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1986 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-29 Air Quality
As discussed above, the 2016 AQMP includes land use and transportation strategies from the 2016 RTP/SCS that are intended to reduce VMT and resulting regional mobile source emissions. The applicable land use strategies include: planning for growth around livable corridors; providing more options for short trips/neighborhood mobility areas; supporting zero emission vehicles and expanding vehicle charging stations; and supporting local sustainability planning. The applicable transportation strategies include:
managing through the Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Program and the Transportation System Management (TSM) Plan including advanced ramp metering, and expansion and integration of the traffic synchronization network; promoting active transportation. The majority of the transportation strategies are to be implemented by cities, counties, and other regional agencies such as SCAG and SCAQMD, although some can be furthered by individual development projects.
The location, design, and land uses of the growth anticipated by the General Plan Update would implement land use and transportation strategies related to reducing vehicle trips for residents and employees of the City by increasing commercial and residential density near public transit with the new land use designations such as Downtown Village and Mixed-Use. The City of San Jacinto is served by the Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC). RCTC provides bus service in Riverside County. It connects San Jacinto with several nearby cities (including Moreno Valley, Beaumont, Banning, and Hemet). RCTC also provides paratransit service. A significant portion of the bus stops in the City of San Jacinto have a bench or a shaded bus shelter. The availability of public transportation and the focus on increasing density relative to the existing public transportation, enables implementation of the General Plan Update to potentially reduce vehicle trips, VMT, and associated transportation-related emissions per capita, compared to the existing conditions. Therefore, the General Plan Update would result in a less than significant impact associated with air quality. The proposed Project would be consistent with the AQMP under the first indicator.
Growth Projections
The emissions inventory for SCAB is formed, in part, by existing city and county general plans. The AQMP is based on population, employment and VMT forecasts by SCAG. A project might be in conflict with the projections. Future development in the City of San Jacinto that is consistent with the General Plan Update would increase vehicle trips and VMT that would result in emissions of ozone precursors and particulate matter. Individual projects under the General Plan Update would be required to undergo subsequent environmental review pursuant to CEQA, and would be required to demonstrate compliance with the AQMP. Individual projects would also be required to demonstrate compliance with SCAQMD rules and regulations governing air quality.
The City of San Jacinto continues to coordinate with SCAQMD and SCAG to ensure Citywide growth projections, land use planning efforts, and local development patterns are accounted for in the regional planning and air quality planning processes. Additionally, the General Plan Update includes policies and actions to further minimize potential impacts to air quality in support of the AQMP. Goal RM-4 of the General Plan Update Resources Management Element addresses potential air quality impacts by supporting projects, programs, policies and regulations that reduce impacts to air quality by private and public construction projects. Also, Policy LU-1.1 of the General Plan Update Land Use Element promotes
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1987 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-30 Air Quality
a land use pattern that would reduce pollution and air quality impacts. Therefore, the operation of the proposed General Plan Update would not conflict with or obstruct the implementation of the applicable air quality plan and impacts would be less than significant.
Proposed General Plan Update Goals, Policies, and Actions:
LAND USE ELEMENT
Policy LU-1.1: Land Use Pattern. Promote an appropriate land use plan that fosters and enhances community livability and public health; sustains economic vitality; promotes efficient development and multiple transportation options; reduces pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and the expenditure of energy and other resources; and ensures compatibility between uses consistent with the land use designations identified in this Element and Land Use Map (LU-2).
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ELEMENT
Goal RM-4: Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Emissions. Improved air quality in San Jacinto and the region through reductions in air pollutants and greenhouse gas (GHG emissions).
Policy RM-4.1: Regional Cooperation. Support regional efforts, including those organized through the South Coast Air Quality Management District, Southern California Association of Governments, the Western Riverside Council of Governments, and the California Air Resource Board (CARB) to implement the regional Air Quality Management Plan.
Policy RM-4.2: Measurement and Enforcement. Coordinate with the California Air Resources Board and South Coast Air Quality Management District to properly measure air quality at emission sources and enforce the standards of the Clean Air Act.
Policy RM-4.4: Transportation Options. Promote alternative modes of transportation to reduce vehicular emissions and improve air quality. (See Mobility Element) Policy RM-4.5: Walkability. Encourage pedestrian-scale development and pedestrian-friendly design features to reduce vehicle emissions. (See Mobility Element) Policy RM-4.6: Sustainable Development. Encourage and incentivize higher density and mixed-use development opportunities within designated areas of the City to lessen the impacts of traffic congestion on local air quality. (See Land Use Element) Policy RM-4.7: Sensitive Receptors. Insulate sensitive receptors from areas of heightened air quality pollution, by utilizing land use planning to buffer and protect residential areas.
Policy RM-4.8: Mitigation. Require the implementation of relevant mitigation measures for all future development upon identification of potential air quality impacts.
Policy RM-4.8: Public Engagement. Promote regional air quality programs in order to inform the public on regional air quality concerns and encourage the engagement of all San Jacinto residents in future planning decisions related to air quality.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1988 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-31 Air Quality
Action RM-4b: Review all new industrial and commercial development projects for potential air quality impacts to residences and other sensitive receptors. Ensure that mitigation measures and best management practices are implemented to reduce significant emissions of criteria pollutants.
Action RM-4c: Review development, infrastructure, and planning projects for consistency with SCAQMD requirements during the CEQA review process. Require project applicants to prepare air quality analyses to address SCAQMD and General Plan requirements, which include analysis and identification of:
1. Air pollutant emissions associated with the project during construction, project operation, and cumulative conditions.
2. Potential exposure of sensitive receptors to toxic air contaminants.
3. Significant air quality impacts associated with the project for construction, project operation, and cumulative conditions.
4. Mitigation measures to reduce significant impacts to less than significant or the maximum extent feasible where impacts cannot be mitigated to less than significant.
Action RM-4d: Work with the South Coast Air Quality Management District, Southern California Association of Governments, the Western Riverside Council of Governments, and the California Air Resource Board (CARB) to implement programs aimed at improving regional air quality.
Action RM-4n: Future development projects implemented under the General Plan will be required to demonstrate consistency with SCAQMD construction emission thresholds. Where emissions from individual projects exceed SCAQMD thresholds, the following actions shall be incorporated as necessary to minimize impacts. These measures do not exclude the use of other, equally effective mitigation measures.
Require all off-road diesel equipment greater than 50 horsepower (hp) used for this Project to meet USEPA Tier 4 final off-road emission standards or equivalent. Such equipment shall be outfitted with Best Available Control Technology (BACT) devices including a California Air Resources Board Certified Level 3 Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) or equivalent. The DPF reduces diesel particulate matter and NOx emissions during construction activities.
Require a minimum of 50 percent of construction debris be diverted for recycling.
Require building materials to contain a minimum 10 percent recycled content.
Require materials such as paints, primers, sealants, coatings, and glues to have a low volatile organic compound concentration compared to conventional products. If low VOC materials are not available, architectural coating phasing should be extended sufficiently to reduce the daily emissions of VOCs.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1989 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-32 Air Quality
Action RM-4o: Future development projects implemented under the General Plan will be required to n thresholds. For projects
where operational emissions exceed regulatory thresholds, the following measures may be used to reduce impacts. Note the following measures are not all inclusive and developers have the option to add or substitute measures that are equally or more appropriate for the scope of the project.
Develop a project specific TDM program for residents and/or employees that provides opportunities for carpool/vanpools.
Provide onsite solar/renewable energy in excess of regulatory requirements.
Require that owners/tenants of non-residential or multi-family residential developments use architectural coatings that are 10 grams per liter or less when repainting/repairing properties.
Require dripless irrigation and irrigation sensor units that prevent watering during rain storms.
Ensure all parking areas are wired for capability of future EV charging and include EV charging stations that exceed regulatory requirements.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
Level of Significance: Less Than Significant Impact.
AQ-2: Would the project result in cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is in non-attainment under the applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard?
Impact Analysis: Ozone, NO2, VOC and PM10 and PM2.5 are pollutants of concern, as SCAB has been designated as a nonattainment area for State ozone, PM10 and PM2.5 and as a federal nonattainment area for ozone and PM10. SCAB is currently in attainment and/or unclassified for State and federal CO, SOx, NO2, lead and federal attainment for PM10. SCAQMD has established numerical significance thresholds for regional emissions during construction and operation. The numerical significance thresholds are based on the recognition that the Basin is a distinct geographic area with a critical air pollution problem for which ambient air quality standards have been promulgated to protect public health. The General Plan Update would potentially cause or contribute to an exceedance of an ambient air quality standard if the following would occur:
Regional construction emissions from both direct and indirect sources would exceed any of the following SCAQMD prescribed daily emissions thresholds:
75 pounds a day for VOC;
100 pounds per day for NOx;
150 pounds per day for PM10; and
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1990 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-33 Air Quality
55 pounds per day for PM2.5. Regional operational emissions exceed any of the following SCAQMD prescribed daily emissions thresholds:
55 pounds a day for VOC;
55 pounds per day for NOx;
150 pounds per day for PM10; and
55 pounds per day for PM2.5. CONSTRUCTION
Construction of the growth anticipated by the proposed General Plan Update has the potential to temporarily emit criteria air pollutant emissions through the use of heavy-duty construction equipment, and through vehicle trips generated by workers and haul trucks. In addition, fugitive dust emissions would result from demolition and various soil-handling activities. Mobile source emissions, primarily NOx and PM emissions (i.e., PM10 and PM2.5), would result from the use of diesel-powered on- and off-road vehicles and equipment. Construction emissions can vary substantially from day-to-day, depending on the level of activity and the specific type of construction activity.
Information regarding the specific development projects and location of receptors for those projects is required in order to model specific emissions throughout the buildout horizon. Construction activities are anticipated to occur at various levels throughout the 20-year buildout horizon (2020 to 2040). Since specific projects are unknown at this time, as is the level of intensity of construction over the 20 years, the analysis provides emissions from an anticipated reasonable worst-case construction scenario.
Specifically, emissions were modeled for all development within the Study Area in buildout year 2040.3 As detailed in the methodology section above, daily emissions were estimated for the construction of the land uses provided in Table 3-4 of Section 3.0, Project Description. Detailed information on modeling parameter inputs is provided in Appendices A and B. The results of the criteria air pollutant calculations are presented in Table 5.3-4, Maximum Regional Construction Emissions. The calculations used to develop construction emissions incorporate compliance with applicable dust control measures required to be implemented during each phase of construction by SCAQMD Rule 403 (Control of Fugitive Dust), and fugitive VOC control measures required to be implemented by architectural coating emission factors based on SCAQMD Rule 1113 (Architectural Coatings).
As shown in Table 5.3-4, construction-related daily emissions would exceed the SCAQMD significance thresholds for VOCs. Therefore, short-term regional construction emissions would be potentially significant. 3 Note that this approach provides an overestimate of the emissions generated by the proposed project within the Study Area (since it models total development that is projected to exist within the Study Area in 2040, including development that currently exists and would continue to exist in 2040). This approach to estimate proposed project emissions -
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1991 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-34 Air Quality
Table 5.3-4
Maximum Regional Construction Emissions
Source VOC NOx CO SO2 PM10 PM2.5 Maximum Daily Emissions 556.69 40.55 29.84 0.07 35.74 11.87 SCAQMD Threshold 75 100 550 150 150 55
Above Threshold? Yes No No No No No
Source: MD Acoustics, LLC, The City of San Jacinto 2040 General Plan Environmental Impact Report Air Quality, June 2022.
OPERATION
Operation of future development accommodated by the General Plan Update would generate criteria air pollutant emissions from project-generated vehicle trips traveling within the City, energy sources such as natural gas combustion, and area sources such as landscaping equipment and consumer products usage.
The on-road mobile sources related to the operation of future development accommodated by the General Plan Update include passenger vehicles, onsite use of off-road equipment and delivery trucks.
VMT data, takes into account ridership, mode, and distance on freeways and local streets as provided in Section 5.17, Transportation. Projected emissions resulting from operational activities of future development accommodated by the General Plan Update are presented in Table 5.3-5, Maximum Regional Operational Emissions (pounds/day). Table 5.3-5 Maximum Regional Operational Emissions (pounds/day)
Source VOC NOx CO SO2 PM10 PM2.5 Maximum Daily Emissions 2,283.48 1,382.81 13,348.02 27.32 3,594.57 991.42 SCAQMD Threshold 55 55 550 150 150 55
Above Threshold? Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes
Source: MD Acoustics, LLC, The City of San Jacinto 2040 General Plan Environmental Impact Report Air Quality, June 2022.
As identified in Table 5.3-5, operational emissions for future development accommodated by the General Plan Update would exceed regulatory thresholds for VOC, NOx, CO, PM10, and PM2.5. While these thresholds are the only thresholds available for numerically determining significance, it should be noted that these thresholds were specifically developed for use in determining significance for individual projects and not for program-level documents, such as the General Plan Update. However, as emissions
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1992 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-35 Air Quality
for VOC, NOx, CO, PM10, and PM2.5 exceed regulatory thresholds, the regional operational emissions would be potentially significant.
CONCLUSION
The exact level of construction emissions from the development anticipated by future development accommodated by the General Plan Update cannot be quantified without full detail of the development projects to be implemented and the extent to which mitigation can be applied. Individual projects anticipated by the General Plan Update would be required to implement their own environmental review.
The proposed policies and actions of the General Plan Update would potentially reduce emissions, which could potentially address impacts related to conflicts with an applicable air quality plan. These policies and actions are oriented toward the reduction of the air quality impacts of individual projects. Action RM4n requires that future development projects implemented under the General Plan Update would be required to demonstrate consistency with SCAQMD construction threshold emissions.
With respect to operational emissions, future development under the General Plan Update would be required to comply with AQMP, SIP, CARB, SCAQMD regulations, Title 24 energy efficiency standards, and the policies and actions. Policy RM-4.2 of the General Plan Update Resources Management Element requires the City to coordinate with CARB and SCAQMD to enforce the standards of the Clean Air Act. Policy RM-4.6 encourages and incentivizes higher density and mixed-use development opportunities to lessen the impacts of traffic congestion on local air quality. Policy RM-4.8 requires the implementation of relevant mitigation measures for all future development upon identification of potential air quality impacts. Action RM-5e provides for the continue review of development projects to ensure that all new public and private development complies with Title 24 energy standards, as well as the energy efficiency standards established by the General Plan Update and the Municipal Code. However, as there is no way to determine the effectiveness of such regulations, policies, and actions for individual projects, it is impossible to determine if potential impacts would be reduced to below regulatory thresholds.
There are no feasible criteria air pollutant reduction measures beyond those identified within the policies and actions listed above and those listed below, that would reduce impacts. While implementation of these policies and actions would reduce criteria pollutant emissions, the extent to which the impacts would need to be determined on a project-by-project basis, as necessary. Therefore, this impact is significant and unavoidable.
Proposed General Plan Update Goals, Policies, and Actions:
LAND USE ELEMENT
Policy LU-1.1: Land Use Pattern. Promote an appropriate land use plan that fosters and enhances community livability and public health; sustains economic vitality; promotes efficient development and multiple transportation options; reduces pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and the expenditure of energy and other resources; and ensures compatibility between uses consistent with the land use designations identified in this Element and Land Use Map (LU-2).
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1993 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-36 Air Quality
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ELEMENT
Goal RM-4: Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Emissions. Improved air quality in San Jacinto and the region through reductions in air pollutants and greenhouse gas (GHG emissions).
Policy RM-4.1: Regional Cooperation. Support regional efforts, including those organized through the South Coast Air Quality Management District, Southern California Association of Governments, the Western Riverside Council of Governments, and the California Air Resource Board (CARB) to implement the regional Air Quality Management Plan.
Policy RM-4.2: Measurement and Enforcement. Coordinate with the California Air Resources Board and South Coast Air Quality Management District to properly measure air quality at emission sources and enforce the standards of the Clean Air Act.
Policy RM-4.4: Transportation Options. Promote alternative modes of transportation to reduce vehicular emissions and improve air quality. (See Mobility Element) Policy RM-4.5: Walkability. Encourage pedestrian-scale development and pedestrian-friendly design features to reduce vehicle emissions. (See Mobility Element) Policy RM-4.6: Sustainable Development. Encourage and incentivize higher density and mixed-use development opportunities within designated areas of the City to lessen the impacts of traffic congestion on local air quality. (See Land Use Element) Policy RM-4.7: Sensitive Receptors. Insulate sensitive receptors from areas of heightened air quality pollution, by utilizing land use planning to buffer and protect residential areas.
Policy RM-4.8: Mitigation. Require the implementation of relevant mitigation measures for all future development upon identification of potential air quality impacts.
Policy RM-4.8: Public Engagement. Promote regional air quality programs in order to inform the public on regional air quality concerns and encourage the engagement of all San Jacinto residents in future planning decisions related to air quality.
Action RM-4b: Review all new industrial and commercial development projects for potential air quality impacts to residences and other sensitive receptors. Ensure that mitigation measures and best management practices are implemented to reduce significant emissions of criteria pollutants.
Action RM-4c: Review development, infrastructure, and planning projects for consistency with SCAQMD requirements during the CEQA review process. Require project applicants to prepare air quality analyses to address SCAQMD and General Plan requirements, which include analysis and identification of:
1. Air pollutant emissions associated with the project during construction, project operation, and cumulative conditions.
2. Potential exposure of sensitive receptors to toxic air contaminants.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1994 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-37 Air Quality
3. Significant air quality impacts associated with the project for construction, project operation, and cumulative conditions.
4. Mitigation measures to reduce significant impacts to less than significant or the maximum extent feasible where impacts cannot be mitigated to less than significant.
Action RM-4d: Work with the South Coast Air Quality Management District, Southern California Association of Governments, the Western Riverside Council of Governments, and the California Air Resource Board (CARB) to implement programs aimed at improving regional air quality.
Action RM-4n: Future development projects implemented under the General Plan will be required to demonstrate consistency with SCAQMD construction emission thresholds. Where emissions from individual projects exceed SCAQMD thresholds, the following actions shall be incorporated as necessary to minimize impacts. These measures do not exclude the use of other, equally effective mitigation measures.
Require all off-road diesel equipment greater than 50 horsepower (hp) used for this Project to meet USEPA Tier 4 final off-road emission standards or equivalent. Such equipment shall be outfitted with Best Available Control Technology (BACT) devices including a California Air Resources Board Certified Level 3 Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) or equivalent. The DPF reduces diesel particulate matter and NOx emissions during construction activities.
Require a minimum of 50 percent of construction debris be diverted for recycling.
Require building materials to contain a minimum 10 percent recycled content.
Require materials such as paints, primers, sealants, coatings, and glues to have a low volatile organic compound concentration compared to conventional products. If low VOC materials are not available, architectural coating phasing should be extended sufficiently to reduce the daily emissions of VOCs.
Action RM-4o: Future development projects implemented under the General Plan will be required to where operational emissions exceed regulatory thresholds, the following measures may be used to reduce impacts. Note the following measures are not all inclusive and developers have the option to add or substitute measures that are equally or more appropriate for the scope of the project.
Develop a project specific TDM program for residents and/or employees that provides opportunities for carpool/vanpools.
Provide onsite solar/renewable energy in excess of regulatory requirements.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1995 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-38 Air Quality
Require that owners/tenants of non-residential or multi-family residential developments use architectural coatings that are 10 grams per liter or less when repainting/repairing properties.
Require dripless irrigation and irrigation sensor units that prevent watering during rain storms.
Ensure all parking areas are wired for capability of future EV charging and include EV charging stations that exceed regulatory requirements.
Goal RM-5: Energy and Mineral Resources. A community that safely manages its energy and mineral resources.
Policy RM-5.1: San Jacinto Power. Continue to make clean, modern, and cost-effective energy options available to individuals who live and work in San Jacinto.
Policy RM-5.2: Compliance with State Legislation. Comply with all state requirements regarding the generation of power and encourage energy providers to investigate the use or expansion of renewable sources of energy.
Policy RM-5.3: Renewable Energy. Promote the development and use of renewable energy resources to reduce dependency on fossil fuels.
Policy RM-5.4: Energy-Efficient Materials. Promote the use of energy-efficient materials, equipment, and design in public and private facilities and infrastructure.
Policy RM-5.9: Promote Energy Conservation in Existing Building Stock. Promote energy conservation by residents and businesses in existing structures, t
and website, in close coordination with other agencies and local energy providers, including the SCAQMD and Southern California Edison.
Mitigation Measures: There is no feasible mitigation available for this impact.
Level of Significance: Significant and Unavoidable Impact.
AQ-3: Would the project expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations? Impact Analysis: Criteria air pollutant emissions have the potential to result in health impacts on sensitive receptors located near new development within the Study Area. As discussed previously, localized impacts are associated with onsite activities. In addition to these localized impacts, vehicle travel associated with future development accommodated by the General Plan Update has the potential to result in exposure of sensitive receptors to CO emissions from intersection congestion. Based on the nature and extent of new development, nearby sensitive receptors could be exposed to levels of toxic air contaminants that could result in a potential increase in cancer, acute, and/or chronic risk. The proposed Project would potentially cause a significant impact if one of the following would occur:
Localized emissions from NO2 and CO for future development accommodated by the General Plan Update, when combined with existing ambient concentrations, would exceed the CAAQS.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1996 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-39 Air Quality
Localized emissions from PM10 and PM2.5 would result in exceedance of the following incremental increase thresholds:
10.4 µg/m3(24-hour) and 1 µg/m3 of PM10 (Annual) for construction;
10.4 µg/m3(24-hour) of PM2.5 for construction;
2.5 µg/m3(24-hour) and 1.0 µg/m3(Annual) of PM10 for operations; and
2.5 µg/m3(24-hour) of PM2.5 for operation.
Buildout of the General Plan Update would emit carcinogenic materials or TACs that exceed the maximum incremental cancer risk of ten in one million or an acute or chronic hazard index of 1.0; or if cancer burden corresponds to an increase in more than 0.5 excess cancer cases in areas where the Project-related increase in individual cancer risk exceeds 1 in one million.
LOCAL AIR QUALITY
SCAQMD recommends the evaluation of localized air quality impacts on sensitive receptors in the immediate vicinity of project-specific level proposed projects (following the SCAQMD Localized Significant Threshold, or LST, methodology). However, the SCAQMD explicitly advises that the LST methodology is not applicable to regional projects such as general plans. Therefore, an analysis of localized emissions during construction activities is not provided herein. Because the exact nature, location, and operation of the future developments are unknown, quantification of potential localized operational risk would be speculative. However, as construction and operation of these future developments would occur within close proximity to sensitive receptors, there is the potential for localized emissions to exceed regulatory levels. Therefore, localized construction and operational emissions with respect to the proposed Project would be potentially significant.
INTERSECTION HOT SPOT ANALYSIS
The potential for future development accommodated by the General Plan Update to cause or contribute to CO hotspots is evaluated by comparing Study Area intersections (both intersection geometry and traffic volumes) with prior studies conducted by the SCAQMD in support of their AQMPs and considering existing background CO concentrations. As discussed below, this comparison demonstrates that the implementation of the General Plan Update would not cause or contribute considerably to the formation of CO hotspots, that CO concentrations at project impacted intersections would remain well below the ambient air quality standards, and that no further CO analysis is warranted or required.
CO levels in the Study Area are substantially below the federal and State standards. CO levels decreased dramatically in the Air Basin with the introduction of the catalytic converter in 1975. No exceedances of CO have been recorded at monitoring stations in the Air Basin for some time and the Air Basin is currently designated as a CO attainment area for both the CAAQS and NAAQS. Thus, it is not expected that CO levels within the Study Area at project-impacted intersections would rise to the level of an exceedance of these standards.
Additionally, SCAQMD conducted CO modeling for the 2003 AQMP for the four worst-case intersections in the Air Basin: (1) Wilshire Boulevard and Veteran Avenue; (2) Sunset Boulevard and Highland Avenue;
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1997 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-40 Air Quality
(3) La Cienega Boulevard and Century Boulevard; and (4) Long Beach Boulevard and Imperial Highway. vehicles per day at any proposed project-impacted intersection, there would be the potential for significant impacts and dispersion modeling would need to be conducted to determine project level impacts.
As provided within the data in the Transportation Impact Analysis by Kittelson & Associates (see Appendix G, Transportation Impact Analysis), there are no intersections would exceed 100,000 vehicles per day within the Study Area. As a result, CO concentrations are expected to be less than those estimated in the 2003 AQMP, which would not exceed the applicable thresholds. Thus, this comparison demonstrates that implementation of the General Plan Update would not contribute considerably to the formation of CO hotspots and no further CO analysis is required. The proposed Project would result in less than significant impacts with respect to CO hotspots.
TOXIC AIR CONTAMINANTS
Construction and operation of the future development accommodated by the General Plan Update would result in emissions of TACs, predominantly from diesel particulate emissions from on- and off-road vehicles during construction and from the operation of diesel fueled equipment or generators during operational activities. Because the exact nature, location, and operation of the future developments are unknown, and because health risk impacts from TACs are cumulative over the life of the nearby receptors, quantification of potential health risks would be speculative. However, as construction and operation of these future developments would occur within close proximity to sensitive receptors, there is the potential for risk to exceed regulatory levels. Therefore, health risks with respect to the development anticipated by the General Plan Update would be potentially significant.
HEALTH IMPACTS
Because regional emissions exceed the SCAQMD regulatory thresholds during construction and operational activities, there is the potential that these emissions would exceed the CAAQS and NAAQS thus resulting in a health impact. Without knowing the exact specifications for all projects that may be developed under the General Plan Update, there is no way to accurately calculate the potential for health impacts from the overall General Plan Update. Individual projects would be required to provide their own environmental assessments to determine health impacts from the construction and operation of their projects. Because there is no way to determine the potential for these projects to affect health of sensitive receptors within the City of San Jacinto, the proposed Project would result in potentially significant health impacts.
The proposed policies of the General Plan Update would potentially reduce emissions, which could potentially reduce impacts related to conflicts with an applicable air quality plan. Goal RM-4 of the General Plan Update Resources Management Element addresses potential air quality impacts by supporting projects, programs, policies and regulations that reduce impacts to air quality by private and public construction projects. Specifically, Policy RM-4.7 addresses potential air quality impacts to sensitive receptors. Policy LU-1.1 of the General Plan Update Land Use Element promotes a land use pattern that would reduce pollution and air quality impacts.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1998 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-41 Air Quality
CONCLUSION
With respect to local air quality emissions, toxic air contaminant emissions, and health impacts, future development under the General Plan Update would be required to comply with AQMP, SIP, CARB, SCAQMD regulations, Title 24 energy efficiency standards, and the proposed General Plan Update policies and actions. Implementation of the General Plan Update policies and actions listed below would mitigate and reduce such emissions. However, the exact location, type, nature, and size of future projects that may expose sensitive receptors to pollutant concentrations cannot be calculated at this time, as the details of potential future projects are not currently known. As such, there is no way to determine the extent to which these regulations will be, or need to be, implemented, and it is impossible to determine if potential impacts would be reduced to below regulatory thresholds. Additionally, there are no feasible mitigation measures beyond the policies and actions listed below. Therefore, localized operational impacts, construction and operational health and toxic air impacts would remain significant and unavoidable.
Proposed General Plan Update Goals, Policies, and Actions: Refer to the General Plan Update goals, policies and actions cited above in AQ-1 and AQ-2.
Mitigation Measures: There is no feasible mitigation available for this impact.
Level of Significance: Significant and Unavoidable Impact.
AQ-4: Would the project result in other emissions (such as those leading to odors) adversely affecting a substantial number of people?
Impact Analysis: Potential sources that may emit odors during construction activities include the use of architectural coatings and solvents. SCAQMD Rule 1113 (Architectural Coatings) limits the amount of VOCs from architectural coatings and solvents. According to the SCAQMD CEQA Air Quality Handbook, construction equipment is not a typical source of odors. Odors from the combustion of diesel fuel would be minimized by complying with the CARB ATCM that limits diesel-fueled commercial vehicle idling to five minutes at any given location, which was adopted in 2004. Future development accommodated by the General Plan Update would also comply with SCAQMD Rule 402 (Nuisance), which prohibits the emissions of nuisance air contaminants or odorous compounds. Through adherence with mandatory compliance with SCAQMD Rules and State measures, construction activities and materials would not create objectionable odors. Construction of future development would not be expected to generate nuisance odors at nearby air quality sensitive receptors. Therefore, impacts with respect to odors would be less than significant.
According to the SCAQMD CEQA Air Quality Handbook, land uses associated with odor complaints typically include agricultural uses, wastewater treatment plants, food processing plants, chemical plants, composting, refineries, landfills, dairies, and fiberglass molding. Potential operational airborne odors could be created commercial and industrial uses developed under the General Plan Update. However, from being a source of offensive odors, and which prohibits the emissions of nuisance air contaminants or odorous compounds would reduce potential impacts. The other potential source of odors would be new waste receptacles within the Study Area. The receptacles would be stored
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 1999 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-42 Air Quality
in areas and in containers, as required by the City (Municipal Code Chapter 8.32, Garbage Collection and Disposal), and be emptied on a regular basis, before potentially substantial odors have developed.
Additionally, the policies included as part of the General Plan Update (described above) would reduce mobile and stationary source emissions and odors associated with diesel fuel by focusing on land use patterns that improve air quality, reduce air pollution from stationary sources, and encourage/enable increased transit behavior. Consequently, implementation of the General Plan Update would not create operational-related objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people within the City. Impacts would be less than significant in this regard.
Proposed General Plan Update Goals, Policies, and Actions: The General Plan Update does not include goals, policies, or actions specific to odors.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
Level of Significance: Less Than Significant Impact.
5.3.6 CUMULATIVE IMPACTS
Impact Analysis: Construction of the growth anticipated by the General Plan Update has the potential to temporarily emit criteria air pollutant emissions through the use of heavy-duty construction equipment, and through vehicle trips generated by workers and haul trucks. In addition, fugitive dust emissions would result from demolition and various soil-handling activities. Mobile source emissions, primarily NOx and PM emissions (i.e., PM10 and PM2.5), would result from the use of diesel-powered on- and off-road vehicles and equipment. Construction emissions can vary substantially from day-to-day, depending on the level of activity and the specific type of construction activity. As shown in Table 5.3-4, construction-related daily emissions would exceed the SCAQMD significance thresholds for VOCs.
Operation of the future development accommodated by the General Plan Update would generate criteria air pollutant emissions from project-generated vehicle trips traveling within the City, energy sources such as natural gas combustion, and area sources such as landscaping equipment and consumer products usage. As identified in Table 5.3-5, potential operational emissions for the proposed Project would also exceed regulatory thresholds (for VOC, NOx, CO, PM10, and PM2.5). Feasible mitigation measures are incorporated into the policies and actions included within the General Plan Update. However, there are no feasible criteria air pollutant reduction measures beyond those identified within the policies and actions identified, that would reduce impacts. While implementation of these policies and actions would reduce criteria pollutant emissions, the extent to which the impacts would be generated by future development and infrastructure projects have to be determined on a project-by-project basis, as necessary.
Moreover, with respect to local air quality emissions, toxic air contaminant emissions, and health impacts, future development under the General Plan Update would be required to comply with AQMP, SIP, CARB, SCAQMD regulations, Title 24 energy efficiency standards, and the proposed General Plan Update policies and actions. Implementation of the policies and actions listed above would mitigate and reduce such emissions. However, as there is no way to determine the extent to which these regulations would be, or need to be, implemented, it is impossible to determine if potential impacts would be reduced to below
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2000 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-43 Air Quality
regulatory thresholds because the details and potential emissions levels of future development projects is not known at this time, as there are no specific development projects proposed as part of the General Plan Update. Additionally, there are no feasible mitigation measures beyond the policies and actions listed above. Therefore, localized operational impacts, construction and operational health and toxic air impacts would remain significant and unavoidable.
Lastly, with respect to other emissions, future development under the General Plan Update would be required to comply with AQMP, SIP, CARB, SCAQMD regulations, Title 24 energy efficiency standards, and the proposed General Plan Update policies and actions. However, as there is no way to determine the extent to which these regulations would be, or need to be, implemented, it is impossible to determine if potential impacts would be reduced to below regulatory thresholds. There are no feasible mitigation measures except for those listed in above. Based on these impacts, the General Plan Update would contribute to a cumulative impact with regard to air quality in the region and within the air basin (i.e. the South Coast Air Basin) as a whole. Therefore, this impact is considered a cumulatively considerable and significant and unavoidable impact.
Proposed General Plan Update Goals, Policies, and Actions: Refer to the General Plan goals, policies, and actions cited above.
Mitigation Measures: There is no feasible mitigation available for this impact.
Level of Significance: Significant and Unavoidable Impact.
5.3.7 SIGNIFICANT UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS
The General Plan Update would result in a significant unavoidable impact for the following areas:
General Plan implementation would result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of criteria pollutants for which the project region is non-attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard.
General Plan implementation would expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations.
All other air quality impacts associated with implementation of the General Plan Update would be less than significant.
If the City of San Jacinto approves the General Plan Update, the City will be required to make findings in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15091 and prepare a Statement of Overriding Considerations decision makers in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15093.
5.3.8 REFERENCES
California Air Resources Board, ARB Almanac, Chapter 4: Regional Trends, https://ww3.arb.ca.gov/aqd/almanac/almanac13/pdf/chap413.pdf, 2013.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2001 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.3-44 Air Quality
California Air Resources Board, Background Material: Almanac of Emissions and Air Quality 2013 Edition, Chapter 4 Regional Trends and Forecasts, https://ww3.arb.ca.gov/aqd/almanac/almanac13/chap413.htm, 2014.
California Air Resources Board, California Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS), http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/aaqs/caaqs/caaqs.htm, 2019.
MD Acoustics, LLC, The City of San Jacinto 2040 General Plan Environmental Impact Report Air Quality, June 2022.
NASA, Background Ozone a Major Issue in U.S. West, https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/nasa-backgroundozone-a-major-issue-in-us-west, September 29, 2015.
South Coast Air Quality Management District, CEQA Air Quality Handbook, 1993.
South Coast Air Quality Management District, Guidance Document for Addressing Air Quality Issues in General Plans and Local Planning, May 06, 2005.
South Coast Air Quality Management District, National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and California Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS) Attainment Status for South Coast Air Basin, February 2016.
South Coast Air Quality Management District, South Coast AQMD Air Quality Significance Thresholds, April 2019.
South Coast Air Quality Management District, Historical Air Quality Data by Year, https://www.aqmd.gov/home/air-quality/historical-air-quality-data/historical-data-by-year, accessed October 25, 2021.
Southern California Association of Governments, Connect SoCal: 2020-2045 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy, adopted September 3, 2020.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Basic Information about Carbon Monoxide (CO) Outdoor Air Pollution, 2016.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National Air Quality: Status and Trends of Key Air Pollutants, 2018.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Health Effects of Ozone Pollution, 2019a.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Health Effects of Ozone In the General Population, 2019b.
Western Regional Climate Center, Period of Record Monthly Climate Summary, https://wrcc.dri.edu/cgibin/cliMAIN.pl?ca3896, accessed on October 25, 2021.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2002 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-1 Biological Resources
5.4 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
5.4.1 PURPOSE
This section describes biological resources within the Study Area and provides an analysis of potential impacts associated with implementation of the General Plan Update. Potential impacts are identified and mitigation measures to address potentially significant impacts are recommended, as necessary.
KEY TERMS
The following key terms are used throughout this section to describe biological resources and the framework that regulates them:
Hydric Soils: One of the three wetland identification parameters, according to the Federal definition of a wetland, hydric soils have characteristics that indicate they were developed in conditions where soil oxygen is limited by the presence of saturated soil for long periods during the growing season. There are approximately 2,000 named soils in the United States that may occur in wetlands.
Hydrophytic Vegetation: Plant types that typically occur in wetland areas. Nearly 5,000 plant types in the United States may occur in wetlands. Plants are listed in regional publications of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and include such species as cattails, bulrushes, cordgrass, sphagnum moss, bald cypress, willows, mangroves, sedges, rushes, arrowheads, and water plantains.
Sensitive Natural Community: A sensitive natural community is a biological community that is regionally rare, provides important habitat opportunities for wildlife, is structurally complex, or is in other ways of special concern to local, State, or Federal agencies. The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) identifies the elimination or substantial degradation of such communities as a significant impact. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) tracks sensitive natural communities in the California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB).
Special-Status Species: Special-status species are those plants and animals that, because of their recognized rarity or vulnerability to various causes of habitat loss or population decline, are recognized by federal, State, or other agencies. Some of these species receive specific protection that is defined by federal or State endangered species legislation. Others have been designated as "sensitive" on the basis of adopted policies and expertise of State resource agencies or organizations with acknowledged expertise, or policies adopted by local governmental agencies such as counties, cities, and special districts to meet local conservation objectives. These species are referred to collectively as "special status species" in this report, following a convention that has developed in practice but has no official sanction. For the Federally listed or proposed for listing under the Federal Endangered Species Act (50 CFR 17.11-
17.12);
Candidates for listing under the Federal Endangered Species Act (61 FR 7596-7613); State listed or proposed for listing under the California Endangered Species Act (14 CCR 670.5);
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2003 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-2 Biological Resources Species listed by the USFWS or the CDFW as a species of concern (USFWS), rare (CDFW), or of special concern (CDFW);
Fully protected animals, as defined by the State of California (California Fish and Game Code Section 3511, 4700, and 5050);
Species that meet the definition of threatened, endangered, or rare under CEQA (CEQA Guidelines Section 15380);
Plants listed as rare or endangered under the California Native Plant Protection Act (California Fish and Game Code Section 1900 et seq.); and
Plants listed by the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) as rare, threatened, or endangered (List 1A and List 2 status plants in Skinner and Pavlik 1994).
Waters of the U.S.: The Federal government defines waters of the U.S. as "lakes, rivers, streams, intermittent drainages, mudflats, sandflats, wetlands, sloughs, and wet meadows" [33 C.F.R. §328.3(a)].
Waters of the U.S. exhibit a defined bed and bank and ordinary high-water mark (OHWM). The OHWM is shore established by the fluctuations
of water and indicated by physical character of the soil, destruction of terrestrial vegetation, the presence [33 C.F.R. §328.3(e)].
Wetlands: Wetlands are ecologically complex habitats that support a variety of both plant and animal life. groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support and under normal circumstances do §328.3(b)]. Wetlands require wetland hydrology, hydric soils, and hydrophytic vegetation. Examples of wetlands include freshwater marsh, seasonal wetlands, and vernal pool complexes that have a hydrologic link to waters of the U.S.
5.4.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING
BIOREGIONS
San Jacinto is located within the Southern California Coast bioregion. This bioregion is bounded on the north by the southern edge of the Los Padres National Forest and the northern base of the San Gabriel and San Bernardino Mountains. This bioregion is bounded on the east by the western edge of the Bureau of Land Management California Desert Conservation Area, and is bordered on the south by the Mexican border. Landscapes in this bioregion range from flatlands to mountains, and ecosystems range from ocean s largest cities (Los Angeles and San Diego). More
than any other bioregion in the State, urbanization has caused intense effects of natural resources (SWRCB 2021). Urbanization in the Southern California Coast bioregion has resulted in the loss of habitat, spread of nonnative species, and the loss of native species.
WESTERN RIVERSIDE COUNTY MULTIPLE SPECIES HABITAT CONSERVATION PLAN The Study Area lies within the Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) area. The Western Riverside County MSHCP is a comprehensive multi-jurisdictional habitat
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2004 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-3 Biological Resources conservation plan focusing on the conservation of species and their associated habitats within a 1.26- million-acre jurisdictional area in Western Riverside County. The MSHCP provides coverage (including take authorization for listed species) for special-status plant and wildlife species, as well as mitigation measures for impacts to sensitive species. Through agreements with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), the MSHCP designates 146 special-status wildlife and plant species ( Covered Species ) that receive some level of coverage under the plan. Of that total, the majority of these species are considered to be adequately conserved and have no additional survey requirements as set forth in Section 6.3.2 of the MSHCP. Covered Species for which surveys may be required by applicants for public and private development projects include four birds, three mammals, three amphibians, three crustaceans, 14 Narrow Endemic Plants, and 13 other sensitive plants within the Criteria Area, which is the area identified by the MSHCP as having conservation potential. Sensitive species with potential to occur include plant and wildlife species that occur within habitats or soils conditions that are also present within the City.
Generally, local jurisdictions implement the MSHCP through their normal land use, planning, and approval process. The MSHCP requires all cities to adopt an ordinance imposing the Local Development Mitigation Fee, as described within the MSHCP document. In addition, cities within the jurisdiction are required to adopt an ordinance or resolution that adopts the MSHCP and establishes procedures and requirements for the implementation of its terms and conditions. All required ordinances have been adopted by the City of San Jacinto, including Ordinance No. 03-25, which establishes a local development mitigation fee as outlined within the MSHCP.
The City of San Jacinto is located within the San Jacinto Valley Area Plan of the MSHCP. During the initial MSHCP development in 2003, jurisdiction acreage targets to measure performance within municipal jurisdictions were created. In order to build the Reserve from the 347,000 acres of conserved lands in Public/Quasi-Public ownership at the time the MSHCP was adopted, an additional 153,000 acres of land is in the process of being conserved within the Criteria Area. The target conservation acreage range for the San Jacinto Valley Area Plan is 21,740 to 29,665 acres; it is composed of approximately 10,200 acres of existing Public/Quasi-Public Lands and 11,540 to 19,465 acres of Additional Reserve Lands. The target acreage range within the City of San Jacinto is 1,580 to 2,680 acres. According to the Western Riverside County MSHCP Annual Report 2019, San Jacinto has conserved a total of 1,130 Additional Reserve Land Acres between February 2000 and December 31, 2019, falling under the target acreage range.
As described above, the MSHCP Conservation Area is comprised of Criteria Area, which is the area identified by the MSHCP as having conservation potential and from which approximately 153,000 acres of new Conservation will be achieved. The Criteria Area can be further broken down into individual 160- acre U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) map quarter section cells, called Criteria Cells. The Criteria Area that falls within the Study Area is generally located in the northeast, along the San Jacinto River, Gilman Hot Springs, and Soboba Hot Springs, and in the west, near the Lakeview Mountains. The MSHCP also establishes a variety of existing and proposed Cores and Linkages. A Core refers to a block of Habitat of appropriate size, configuration, and vegetation characteristics to generally support the life history requirements of one or more Covered Species. A Linkage is a connection between Core Areas with adequate size, configuration and vegetation characteristics to generally provide for "Live-In" Habitat and/or provide for genetic flow for identified Planning Species. Areas identified as Linkages in the MSHCP
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2005 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-4 Biological Resources may provide movement Habitat but not Live-In Habitat for some species, thereby functioning more as movement corridors that facilitate wildlife movement.
The San Jacinto Valley Area Plan is divided into five Subunits. For each Subunit, target conservation acreages are established along with a description of the Planning Species, Biological Issues and Considerations, and Criteria for each Subunit. The Planning Species and Biological Issues and Considerations for each Subunit are outlined below.
San Jacinto Valley Area Plan Subunit 1: Gilman Springs/Southern Badlands Planning Species:
arroyo toad
Bell's sage sparrow
burrowing owl
cactus wren
loggerhead shrike
mountain plover
Southern California rufous-crowned sparrow
white-faced ibis
bobcat
Los Angeles pocket mouse
mountain lion
San Bernardino kangaroo rat
Stephens' kangaroo rat
Coulter's goldfields
Davidson's saltscale
San Jacinto Valley crownscale
spreading navarretia
vernal barley
Wright's trichocoronis
Biological Issues and Considerations:
Conserve Willow-Domino-Travers soils supporting sensitive plants such as spreading navarretia, San Jacinto Valley crownscale, Coulter's goldfields, Davidson's saltscale, vernal barley and Wright's trichocoronis;
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2006 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-5 Biological Resources Conserve intact upland Habitat in the southern Badlands for the benefit of burrowing owl, Bell's sage sparrow, raptors and other species;
Conserve open grasslands and sparse shrublands that support populations of Stephens' kangaroo rat, with a focus on suitable Habitat in the southern Badlands; Maintain Core Area for bobcat;
Maintain Core and Linkage Habitat for mountain lion;
Maintain Core Area for the San Bernardino kangaroo rat; and Determine presence of potential Core Area for the Los Angeles pocket mouse along the San Jacinto River and its tributaries.
San Jacinto Valley Area Plan Subunit 2: Lakeview Mountains East Planning Species:
Bell's sage sparrow
burrowing owl
bobcat
Los Angeles pocket mouse
Biological Issues and Considerations:
Conserve upland habitat blocks in the Lakeview Mountains for raptors, burrowing owl, Bell's sage sparrow and other upland species;
Conserve grasslands adjacent to sage scrub as foraging Habitat for raptors; and Determine presence of potential Core Area for Los Angeles pocket mouse.
San Jacinto Valley Area Plan Subunit 3: Upper San Jacinto River/Bautista Creek Planning Species:
arroyo toad
mountain yellow-legged frog
burrowing owl
Cooper's hawk
least Bell's vireo
southwestern willow flycatcher
yellow warbler
Quino checkerspot butterfly
bobcat
Los Angeles pocket mouse
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2007 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-6 Biological Resources mountain lion
San Bernardino kangaroo rat
western pond turtle
slender-horned spine flower
Biological Issues and Considerations:
Conserve existing known populations of least Bell's vireo and southwestern willow flycatcher along the upper San Jacinto River and Bautista Creek. Maintain existing breeding Habitat for these species at Bautista Creek;
Maintain alluvial scrub Habitat for slender-horned spine flower; Maintain and enhance linkage value of the upper San Jacinto River and Bautista Creek for wildlife movement and Live-In Habitat;
Conserve stream courses and adjacent coastal sage scrub, grasslands and chaparral supporting arroyo toad, mountain yellow-legged frog and western pond turtle, with a focus on suitable breeding, foraging, and/or aestivating Habitats along the upper San Jacinto River and Bautista Canyon;
Conserve existing habitat values of the upper San Jacinto River and Bautista Creek for the benefit of the San Bernardino kangaroo rat;
Maintain linkage area for bobcat along the San Jacinto River; Maintain linkage area for mountain lion along the San Jacinto River; Determine presence of potential Core Area for the Los Angeles pocket mouse along the San Jacinto River and Bautista Creek and tributaries; and
Maintain Core Area for Quino checkerspot butterfly.
San Jacinto Valley Area Plan Subunit 4: Hemet Vernal Pool Areas East Planning Species:
burrowing owl
mountain plover
vernal pool fairy shrimp
California Orcutt grass
Davidson's saltscale
little mousetail
spreading navarretia
thread-leaved brodiaea
vernal barley
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2008 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-7 Biological Resources Biological Issues and Considerations:
Conserve alkali soils supporting California Orcutt grass, Davidson's saltscale, little mousetail, spreading navarretia, thread-leaved brodiaea and vernal barley; Conserve existing vernal pool complexes;
Maintain vernal pool hydrology;
Maintain Core Area for vernal pool fairy shrimp and Riverside fairy shrimp; and Conserve grassland Habitat for wintering mountain plover and burrowing owl.
San Jacinto Valley Area Plan Subunit 5: Mica Butte
Planning Species:
Bell's sage sparrow
cactus wren
loggerhead shrike
Quino checkerspot butterfly
bobcat
Los Angeles pocket mouse
mountain lion
Stephens' kangaroo rat
Biological Issues and Considerations:
Conserve the existing mosaic of upland Habitat east of Diamond Valley Lake and west of the San Bernardino National Forest. Conservation efforts should focus on maintenance of large block(s) of interconnected Habitat for populations of Quino checkerspot butterfly, Bell's sage sparrow, cactus wren and other species. Conservation should occur in large, interconnected habitat blocks, linking existing Public/Quasi-Public Lands;
Conserve open grasslands and sparse shrub lands that support populations of Stephens' kangaroo rat, with a focus on suitable Habitat in the Mica Butte area; Maintain Core Area for bobcat;
Maintain Core and Linkage Habitat for mountain lion; and Determine presence of potential Core Area for the Los Angeles pocket mouse.
CALIFORNIA WILDLIFE HABITAT RELATIONSHIP SYSTEM
The California Wildlife Habitat Relationship (CWHR) habitat classification scheme has been developed to support the CWHR System, a wildlife information system and predictive model for California's regularlyoccurring birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. When first published in 1988, the classification scheme had 53 habitats. At present, there are 59 wildlife habitats in the CWHR System, including: 27 tree,
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2009 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-8 Biological Resources 12 shrub, six herbaceous, four aquatic, eight agricultural, one developed, and one non-vegetated (CDFW 2021).
According to the CWHR System, there are 12 cover types (wildlife habitat classifications) in the Study Area out of 59 found in the State. These include: Annual Grassland, Coastal Oak Woodland, Coastal Scrub, Cropland, Dryland Grain Crops, Eucalyptus, Fresh Emergent Wetland, Irrigated Hayfield, Lacustrine, Mixed Chaparral, Valley Foothill Riparian, and Urban.
Table 5.4-1, Cover Types California Wildlife Habitat Relationship System, identifies the total area by acreage for each cover type (wildlife habitat classification) found in the Study Area. Figure 5.4-1, Wildlife Habitat Relationship Cover Types, illustrates the location of each cover type (wildlife habitat classification) within the Study Area. A brief description of each cover type follows.
Table 5.4-1
Cover Types - California Wildlife Habitat Relationship System Name Total Acres1 City Acres SOI Acres
Annual Grassland 726.74 343.76 382.98
Coastal Oak Woodland 24.41 22.02 2.40
Coastal Scrub 5,674.63 2,038.85 3,635.79
Cropland 4,797.96 4,640.09 157.86
Dryland Grain Crops 3,353.52 3,326.42 27.10
Eucalyptus 32.02 17.74 14.29
Fresh Emergent Wetland 100.10 45.24 54.86
Irrigated Hayfield 256.15 256.15 0.00
Lacustrine 251.05 193.23 57.82
Mixed Chaparral 949.05 56.53 892.52
Urban 6,194.36 5,588.90 605.46
Valley Foothill Riparian 445.48 138.16 307.32
Total 22,805.48 16,667.09 6,138.39
Note:
1 Sums may not be equal due to rounding.
Source: City of San Jacinto General Plan Existing Conditions Report 2021.
Developed Cover Types
Cropland in California includes a variety of sizes, shapes, and growing patterns. Field corn can reach ten feet while strawberries are only a few inches high. Although most crops are planted in rows, alfalfa hay and small grains (rice, barley, and wheat) form dense stands with up to 100 percent canopy closure. Most croplands support annuals, which are planted in spring and harvested during summer or fall. In many areas, second crops are commonly planted after harvesting the first. Wheat is planted in fall and harvested in late spring or early summer. Croplands are located on flat to gently rolling terrain. When flat terrain is put into crop production, it usually is leveled to facilitate irrigation. Rolling terrain is either dry farmed or irrigated by sprinklers. Soils often dictate the crops grown, and climate influences the type of crops grown.
Within the Study Area, there are approximately 4,797.96 acres of cropland habitat.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2010 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-9 Biological Resources Dryland Grain Crops in California are typically seed producing grasses, primarily barley, cereal rye, oats, and wheat. These seed and grain crops are annuals. They are usually planted by drilling in rows which produce solid stands, forming 100 percent canopy at maturity in good stands. They are normally planted in fall and harvested in spring. However, they may be planted in rotation with other irrigated crops and winter wheat or barley may be planted after harvest of a previous crop in the fall, dry farmed (during the wet winter and early spring months), and then harvested in late spring. Non-irrigated grain and seed crops are often located on flat to gently rolling terrain. When flat terrain is put into crop production, it usually is leveled to facilitate irrigation. Rolling terrain is either dry farmed or irrigated by sprinklers. Soils often dictate the crops grown. Barley can grow on poor quality soils, such as, saline or alkaline soils. Climate also influences the types of crops grown. Within the Study Area, there are approximately 3,353.52 acres of dryland grain crop habitat.
Irrigated Hayfield in California typically includes alfalfa fields and grass hayfields. Alfalfa usually exists unplowed for approximately three years or more, followed by a cereal grain crop, vegetables, potatoes or tomatoes for one to four years before being planted to alfalfa again. Most hay fields in the warmer parts of California are monocultures of alfalfa. In cooler areas, both alfalfa and introduced grass hay are common and are regularly irrigated. Occasionally, "native" hay fields are irrigated to enhance their productivity. Native hay fields may include introduced grasses and forbs, but they are managed less intensively and contain a variety of naturally-occurring graminoids and forbs, as well. This habitat is found throughout California, from below sea level to about 2,100 meters (7,000 feet). Within the Study Area, there are approximately 256.15 acres of irrigated hayfield habitat.
Urban habitats are not limited to any particular physical setting. Three urban categories relevant to wildlife are distinguished: downtown, urban residential, and suburbia. The heavily-developed downtown is usually at the center, followed by concentric zones of urban residential and suburbs. There is a progression outward of decreasing development and increasing vegetative cover. Species richness and diversity is extremely low in the inner cover. The structure of urban vegetation varies, with five types of vegetative structure defined: tree grove, street strip, shade tree/lawn, lawn, and shrub cover. A distinguishing feature of the urban wildlife habitat is the mixture of native and exotic species. Within the Study Area, there are approximately 6,194.36 acres of urban habitat.
Herbaceous Dominated Cover Types
Annual Grassland habitat occurs mostly on flat plains to gently rolling foothills. Climatic conditions are typically Mediterranean, with cool, wet winters and dry, hot summers. The length of the frost-free season averages 250 to 300 days. Annual precipitation is highest in northern California. Within the Study Area, there are approximately 726.74 acres of annual grassland habitat.
Fresh Emergent Wetland habitat occurs on virtually all exposures and slopes, provided a basin or depression is saturated or at least periodically flooded. However, they are most common on level to gently rolling topography. They are found in various landscape depressions or at the edge of rivers or lakes. The length of the frost-free season averages 250 to 300 days. This habitat is characterized by erect, rooted, herbaceous hydrophytes. Dominant vegetation is generally perennial monocots to two meters (6.6 feet) tall. All emergent wetlands are flooded frequently, enough so that the roots of the vegetation prosper in
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2011 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-10 Biological Resources an anaerobic environment. Annual precipitation is highest in northern California. Within the Study Area, there are approximately 100.10 acres of fresh emergent wetland habitat.
Hardwood Woodland Cover Types
Coastal Oak Woodland habitats occupy a variety of Mediterranean type climates that vary from north to south and west to east. Precipitation occurs in the milder winter months, almost entirely as rainfall, followed by warm to hot, dry summers. Near the coast, the summers are tempered by fogs and cool, humid sea breezes. Mean annual precipitation varies from about 40 inches in the north to about 15 inches in southern and interior regions. Mean minimum winter temperatures are 29 to 44 °F, and the mean maximum summer temperatures are 75 to 96 °F. The growing season ranges from six months (180 frostfree days) in the north to the entire year in mild coastal regions to the south. The soils and parent material on which coastal oak woodlands occur are extremely variable. Coastal oak woodlands generally occur on moderately to well-drained soils that are moderately deep and have low to medium fertility. Within the Study Area, there are approximately 24.41 acres of coastal oak woodland habitat.
Valley-Foothill Riparian habitats are found in valleys bordered by sloping alluvial fans, slightly dissected terraces, lower foothills, and coastal plains. They are generally associated with low velocity flows, flood plains, and gentle topography. Valleys provide deep alluvial soils and a high water table. The substrate is coarse, gravelly, or rocky soils more or less permanently moist, but probably well aerated. Frost and short periods of freezing occur in winter (200 to 350 frost-free days). This habitat is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild and wet winters. Temperatures range from 75 to 102 °F in the summer to 29 to 44 °F in the winter. Average precipitation ranges from six to 30 inches, with little or no snow. The growing season is seven to 11 months. Within the Study Area, there are approximately 445.48 acres of valleyfoothill riparian habitat.
Tree-Dominated Cover Types
Eucalyptus habitat occurs in California from San Diego and Imperial counties in the south, usually at elevations below 500 meters (1,500 feet), but it has been found up 700 meters (2,100 feet); and to Shasta in the north. Most eucalyptus, however, is found around populated areas of southern and central California. Eucalyptus habitats range from single-species thickets with little or no shrubby understory to scattered trees over a well-developed herbaceous and shrubby understory. In most cases, eucalyptus forms a dense stand with a closed canopy. Within the Study Area, there are approximately 32.02 acres of eucalyptus habitat.
Shrub-Dominated Cover Types
Coastal Scrub habitat is typified by low to moderate-sized shrubs with mesophytic leaves, flexible branches, semi-woody stems growing from a woody base, and a shallow root system. Coastal Scrub seems to tolerate drier conditions than its associated habitats. It is typical of areas with steep, south-facing slopes; sandy, mudstone or shale soils; and average annual rainfall of less than 12 inches. However, coastal scrub habitat also regularly occurs on stabilized dunes, flat terraces, and moderate slopes of all aspects where average annual rainfall is up to 24 inches. Stand composition and structure differ markedly in response to these physiographic features. Within the Study Area, there are approximately 5,674.63 acres of coastal scrub habitat.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2012 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-11 Biological Resources Mixed Chaparral is a structurally homogeneous brushland type dominated by shrubs with thick, stiff, heavily cutinized evergreen leaves. Shrub height and crown cover vary considerably with age since last burn, precipitation regime, aspect, and soil type. At maturity, cismontane Mixed Chaparral typically is a dense, nearly impenetrable thicket with greater than 80 percent absolute shrub cover. Canopy height ranges from one to four meters (3.3 to 13.1 feet), occasionally to six meters (19.6 feet). Mixed Chaparral is a floristically rich type that supports approximately 240 species of woody plants. Composition changes between northern and southern California and with precipitation regime, aspect, and soil type. Dominant species in cismontane Mixed Chaparral include scrub oak, chaparral oak, and several species of ceanothus and manzanita. Within the Study Area, there are approximately 949.05 acres of mixed chaparral habitat.
Aquatic Cover Types
Lacustrine habitats are inland depressions or dammed riverine channels containing standing water. These habitats may occur in association with any terrestrial habitats, Riverine, or Fresh Emergent Wetlands. They may vary from small ponds less than one acre to large areas covering several square miles. Depth can vary from a few inches to hundreds of feet. Typical lacustrine habitats include permanently flooded lakes and reservoirs, and intermittent lakes and ponds (including vernal pools) so shallow that rooted plants can grow over the bottom. Most permanent lacustrine systems support fish life; intermittent types usually do not. Within the Study Area, there are approximately 251.05 acres of lacustrine habitat.
SPECIAL-STATUS SPECIES
As previously described, special-status species are those plants and animals that, because of their recognized rarity or vulnerability to various causes of habitat loss or population decline, are recognized by federal, State, or other agencies. The following discussion is based on a background search of specialstatus species that are documented in the California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB), the California Native Plant Survey (CNPS) Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants, and the USFWS endangered and threatened species lists. The background search was regional in scope and focused on the documented occurrences within a 12-quad (which includes the following U.S. Geological Survey quadrangles:
Sunnymead, El Casco, Beaumont, Cabazon, Perris, Lakeview, San Jacinto, Lake Fulmor, Romoland, Winchester, Hemet, and Blackburn Canyon), and a one-mile search area; refer to Appendix C, Biological Resources. Special-Status Plants
The search revealed documented occurrences of 45 special-status plant species within the 12-quad search area. Of these 45 special-status plant species within the 12-quad search area, 14 species are located within one-mile of the Study Area; refer to Appendix C.
Table 5.4-2, Special-Status Plants Present or Potentially Present, provides a list of special-status plant species that are documented within a 12-quad search area of San Jacinto, and current protective status.
Figure 5.4-2, California Natural Diversity Database: One-Mile Search, illustrates the special-status species located within one-mile of the Study Area. Figure 5.4-3, California Natural Diversity Database: TwelveQuad Search, illustrates the special-status species located within the 12-quad search area.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2013 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-12 Biological Resources Table 5.4-2
Special-Status Plants Present or Potentially Present
Scientific Name Common Name Federal
Status State Status CNPS* MSHCPStatus
Galium californicum ssp.
primum Alvin Meadow bedstraw None None 1B.2 --
Penstemon californicus California beardtongue None None 1B.2 Covered Orcuttia californica California Orcutt grass Endangered Endangered 1B.1 Covered, NE
Imperata brevifolia California satintail None None 2B.1 -- Tortula californica California screw moss None None 1B.2 -- Abronia villosa var. aurita chaparral sand-verbena None None 1B.1 -- Astragalus lentiginosus var.
coachellae
Coachella Valley milkvetch Endangered None 1B.2 Covered Lasthenia glabrata ssp.
coulteri Coulter's goldfields None None 1B.1 Covered
Atriplex serenana var.
davidsonii Davidson's saltscale None None 1B.2 Covered
Astragalus hornii var. hornii Horn's milk-vetch None None 1B.1 -- Calochortus weedii var.
intermedius
intermediate mariposalily None None 1B.2 Covered
Astragalus pachypus var.
jaegeri Jaeger's milk-vetch None None 1B.1 Covered
Streptanthus bernardinus Laguna Mountains
jewelflower None None 4.3 --
Saltugilia latimeri Latimer's woodland-gilia None None 1B.2 -- Lilium parryi lemon lily None None 1B.2 Covered
Myosurus minimus ssp. apus little mousetail None None 3.1 Covered Chorizanthe polygonoides var.
longispina long-spined spineflower None None 1B.2 Covered Horkelia cuneata var.
puberula mesa horkelia None None 1B.1 --
Deinandra mohavensis Mojave tarplant None Endangered 1B.3 Covered Nama stenocarpa mud nama None None 2B.2 Covered
Allium munzii Munz's onion Endangered Threatened 1B.1 Covered, NE
Petalonyx linearis narrow-leaf sandpaperplant None None 2B.3 -- Harpagonella palmeri Palmer's grapplinghook None None 4.2 Covered Calochortus palmeri var.
palmeri Palmer's mariposa-lily None None 1B.2 --
Atriplex parishii Parish's brittlescale None None 1B.1 Covered Chorizanthe parryi var. parryi Parry's spineflower None None 1B.1 Covered Caulanthus simulans Payson's jewelflower None None 4.2 Covered Calochortus plummerae Plummer's mariposa-lily None None 4.2 Covered
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2014 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-13 Biological Resources Table 5.4-2 (continued)
Special-Status Plants Present or Potentially Present
Scientific Name Common Name Federal
Status State Status CNPS* MSHCP
Lepidium virginicum var.
robinsonii Robinson's pepper-grass None None 4.3 -- Sidalcea neomexicana salt spring checkerbloom None None 2B.2 -- Symphyotrichum defoliatum San Bernardino aster None None 1B.2 -- Monardella nana ssp.
leptosiphon San Felipe monardella None None 1B.2 --
Calochortus palmeri var.
munzii San Jacinto mariposa-lily None None 1B.2 --
Galium angustifolium ssp.
jacinticum
San Jacinto Mountains
bedstraw None None 1B.3 Covered,
NE
Atriplex coronata var. notatior San Jacinto Valley
crownscale Endangered None 1B.1 Covered
Dodecahema leptoceras slender-horned
spineflower Endangered Endangered 1B.1 Covered, NE
Centromadia pungens ssp.
laevis smooth tarplant None None 1B.1 Covered
Scutellaria bolanderi ssp.
austromontana
southern mountains
skullcap None None 1B.2 --
Mentzelia tricuspis spiny-hair blazing star None None 2B.1 -- Navarretia fossalis spreading navarretia Threatened None 1B.1 Covered, NE
Brodiaea filifolia thread-leaved brodiaea Threatened Endangered 1B.1 Covered Pseudognaphalium
leucocephalum white rabbit-tobacco None None 2B.2 --
Chorizanthe xanti var.
leucotheca
white-bracted
spineflower None None 1B.2 --
Trichocoronis wrightii var.
wrightii Wright's trichocoronis None None 2B.1 Covered, NE Allium marvinii Yucaipa onion None None 1B.2 Covered,
NE
Notes: 12-quad search area of San Jacinto.
*California Native Plant Society (CNPS) Key:
1 CNPS Rare, Threatened, or Endangered
2 CNPS Rare, Threatened, or Endangered in California, But More Common Elsewhere 3 CNPS Review list: plants which more information is needed 4 CNPS Plants of limited distribution - a watch list
MSHCP Key
Covered Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Program covered species NE Narrowly Endemic
Source: CDFW CNDDB 2021 and 2022; Western Riverside MSHCP 2003.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2015 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-14 Biological Resources Special-Status Animals
The search revealed documented occurrences of 59 special-status animal species within the 12-quad search areas; refer to Appendix C. This includes: three amphibians, 23 birds, 15 mammals, eight invertebrates and 10 reptiles. Of the 59 special-status animal species within the 12-quad search areas, 30 species are located within one-mile of the Study Area. Table 5.4-3, Special-Status Animals Present or Potentially Present, provides a list of the special-status animal species that are documented within the 12- quad search area, and current protective status. Figure 5.4-2 and Figure 5.4-3 illustrate the special-status species located within one-mile of the Study Area and within the 12-quad search area, respectively.
Table 5.4-3
Special-Status Animals Present or Potentially Present
Scientific Name Common Name Federal
Status State Status CDFWStatus*
MSHCP
Status
Amphibians
Anaxyrus californicus arroyo toad Endangered None SSC Covered Rana muscosa southern mountain yellowlegged frog Endangered Endangered WL Covered Spea hammondii western spadefoot None None SSC Covered
Birds
Artemisiospiza belli belli Bell's sage sparrow None None WL Covered Cypseloides niger black swift None None SSC Covered
Athene cunicularia burrowing owl None None SSC Covered
Eremophila alpestris actia California horned lark None None WL Covered Campylorhynchus
brunneicapillus sandiegensis coastal cactus wren None None SSC Covered Polioptila californica
californica
coastal California
gnatcatcher Threatened None SSC Covered
Accipiter cooperii Cooper's hawk None None WL Covered
Buteo regalis ferruginous hawk None None WL Covered
Aquila chrysaetos golden eagle None None FP; WL Covered Toxostoma lecontei Le Conte's thrasher None None SSC -- Vireo bellii pusillus least Bell's vireo Endangered Endangered None Covered Lanius ludovicianus loggerhead shrike None None SSC Covered Circus hudsonius northern harrier None None SSC Covered Progne subis purple martin None None SSC Covered
Aimophila ruficeps
canescens
southern California rufouscrowned sparrow None None WL Covered Empidonax traillii extimus southwestern willow
flycatcher Endangered Endangered None Covered
Agelaius tricolor tricolored blackbird None Candidate
Endangered SSC Covered
Coccyzus americanus
occidentalis
western yellow-billed
cuckoo Threatened Endangered None Covered
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2016 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-15 Biological Resources Table 5.4-3 (continued)
Special-Status Animals Present or Potentially Present
Scientific Name Common Name Federal
Status State Status CDFWStatus*
MSHCP
Plegadis chihi white-faced ibis None None WL Covered
Elanus leucurus white-tailed kite None None FP Covered
Setophaga petechia yellow warbler None None SSC Covered Icteria virens yellow-breasted chat None None SSC Covered Xanthocephalus
xanthocephalus yellow-headed blackbird None None SSC -- Mammals
Taxidea taxus American badger None None SSC --
Chaetodipus californicus
femoralis Dulzura pocket mouse None None SSC --
Perognathus longimembris
brevinasus Los Angeles pocket mouse None None SSC Covered Chaetodipus fallax fallax northwestern San Diego
pocket mouse None None SSC Covered
Antrozous pallidus pallid bat None None SSC --
Chaetodipus fallax pallidus pallid San Diego pocket
mouse
None None SSC --
Xerospermophilus
tereticaudus chlorus
Palm Springs round-tailed
ground squirrel None None SSC --
Dipodomys merriami parvus San Bernardino kangaroo
rat Endangered None SSC Covered
Lepus californicus bennettii San Diego black-tailed
jackrabbit None None SSC Covered
Neotoma lepida intermedia San Diego desert woodrat None None SSC Covered Onychomys torridus ramona southern grasshopper
mouse
None None SSC --
Dipodomys stephensi Stephens' kangaroo rat Endangered Threatened None Covered Corynorhinus townsendii Townsend's big-eared bat None None SSC -- Eumops perotis californicus western mastiff bat None None SSC -- Lasiurus xanthinus western yellow bat None None SSC --
Invertebrates
Stenopelmatus cahuilaensis Coachella Valley jerusalem
cricket None None None --
Bombus crotchii Crotch bumble bee None None None --
Palaeoxenus dohrni Dohrn's elegant eucnemid
beetle None None None --
Socalchemmis icenoglei Icenogle's socalchemmis
spider None None None --
Euphydryas editha quino quino checkerspot butterfly Endangered None None Covered Streptocephalus woottoni Riverside fairy shrimp Endangered None None Covered
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2017 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-16 Biological Resources Table 5.4-3 (continued)
Special-Status Animals Present or Potentially Present
Scientific Name Common Name Federal
Status State Status CDFWStatus*
MSHCP
Branchinecta lynchi vernal pool fairy shrimp Threatened None None Covered Neolarra alba white cuckoo bee None None None --
Reptiles
Arizona elegans occidentalis California glossy snake None None SSC -- Phrynosoma blainvillii coast horned lizard None None SSC -- Salvadora hexalepis virgultea coast patch-nosed snake None None SSC -- Aspidoscelis tigris stejnegeri coastal whiptail None None SSC -- Aspidoscelis hyperythra orange-throated whiptail None None WL Covered Crotalus ruber red-diamond rattlesnake None None SSC Covered Coleonyx variegatus abbotti San Diego banded gecko None None SSC Covered Anniella stebbinsi southern California legless
lizard None None SSC --
Charina umbratica southern rubber boa None Threatened None Covered Emys marmorata western pond turtle None None SSC Covered Notes: 12-quad search area of San Jacinto.
*CDFW Status Key:
FP California Fully Protected
SSC CDFW Species of Special Concern
WL CDFW Watch List
MSHCP Key
Covered Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Program covered species Source: CDFW CNDDB 2021 and 2022; Western Riverside MSHCP 2003.
Sensitive Natural Communities
The CDFW considers sensitive natural communities to have significant biotic value, with species of plants and animals unique to each community. The CNDDB search revealed seven sensitive natural communities within the 12-quad search area, and four sensitive natural communities within one-mile of the Study Area; refer to Appendix C. Sensitive natural communities within the 12-quad search area include Canyon Live Oak Ravine Forest, Desert Fan Palm Oasis Woodland, Southern Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest, Southern Cottonwood Willow Riparian Forest, Southern Mixed Riparian Forest, Southern Riparian Scrub, and Southern Sycamore Alder Riparian Woodland.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2018 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-17 Biological Resources
5.4.3 REGULATORY SETTING
FEDERAL
Federal Endangered Species Act
Federally listed threatened and endangered species and their habitats are protected under provisions of the Federal Endangered Species Act (FESA) o
kill, trap, capture, or collect, or to attempt to engage in any of the specifically enumerated co presence of any Federally threatened or endangered species that are in a project area generally imposes its habitat. Under the regulations o
but not the purpose of, an otherwise lawful act.
upreme Court, in Babbit v. Sweet Home, 515 U.S. 687, ruled that tivities that may
ontains the elements and features
that are essential for the survival and recovery of the species. In the event a project may result in take or provide mitigation. If the project has a federal nexus (i.e., occurs on federal land, is issued federal permits, or receives any other federal oversight or funding), the proponent would be required to enter into Section 7 informal and/or formal consultations with the USFWS to obtain, if possible, a biological opinion allowing for incidental take of the species in question. If the project is on private land or would not require any federal permits, the proponent would be required to prepare a habitat management plan to address the impacts.
that is in danger of extinction throughout
species is one that has been officially proposed by
USFWS for addition to the federal threatened and endangered species list.
USFWS produced an updated list of candidate species for listing in June 2002 (Federal Register: Volume 67, Number 114, 50 CFR Part 17 2002). Candidate species are regarded by USFWS as candidates for not afforded legal protection under the FESA, they typically receive special attention from Federal and State agencies during the environmental review process. need of concentrated conservation actions. As the species of concern designated by USFWS do not receive
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2019 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-18 Biological Resources formal legal protection, the use of the term does not necessarily ensure that the species would be proposed for listing as a threatened or endangered species.
Migratory Bird Treaty Act
The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) (16 United States Government Code [USC] 703) makes it unlawful to pursue, capture, kill, or possess or attempt to do the same to any migratory bird or part, nest, or egg of any such bird listed in wildlife protection treaties between the United States, Great Britain, Mexico, Japan, and the countries of the former Soviet Union, and authorizes the U.S. Secretary of the Interior to protect and regulate the taking of migratory birds. It establishes seasons and bag limits for hunted species and protects migratory birds, their occupied nests, and their eggs (16 USC 703; 50 CFR 10, 21).
Bald and Golden Eagle Preservation Act
The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act provides for the protection of the bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) and the golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) by prohibiting, except under certain specified conditions, the taking, possession, and commerce of such birds (16 U.S. Government Code Section 668(a)). the Act includes actions which significantly disturb eagles (50 CFR Section 22.3). 1972 amendments increased penalties for violating provisions of the Act and strengthened other enforcement measures. A 1978 amendment authorized the Secretary of the Interior to permit the taking of golden eagle nests that interfere with resource development or recovery operations, and recent amendments authorize USFWS to issue permits for incidental and practically unavoidable take of eagles.
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act
Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 404 requires that a permit be obtained from the United States Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) prio
include navigable waterways, their tributaries, lakes, ponds, and w areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that normally do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soi (United States
Environmental Protection Agency [EPA] 2021). Wetlands that are not specifically exempt from Section 404 regulations (such as drainage channels excavated on dr
Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County v. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Court acted to limit the regulatory jurisdiction of the Corps under CWA Section 404 as it applies to adjacent waters (2001). Specifically, the Court ruled that waters that are non-navigable, isolated, and intrastate are not subject to the Corps jurisdiction (Guzy and Anderson 2001). The Corps is required to consult with the USFWS, EPA, and State Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB), among other agencies, in carrying out its discretionary authority under Section 404.
The Corps grants two types of permits, individual and nationwide. Project-specific individual permits are required for certain activities that may have a potential for more than a minimal impact and necessitate a detailed application. The most common type of permit is a nationwide permit. Nationwide permits authorize activities on a nationwide basis unless specifically limited and are designed to regulate with little delay or paperwork certain activities having minimal impacts. Nationwide permits typically take two to
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2020 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-19 Biological Resources three months to obtain whereas individual permits can take a year or more. To qualify for a nationwide permit, specific criteria must be met. If the criteria restrictions are met, permittees may proceed with certain activities without notifying the Corps. Some nationwide permits require a pre-construction notification before activities can begin.
Section 401 of the Clean Water Act
Applicants for a federal license or permit for activities which may discharge to waters of the U.S. must seek Water Quality Certification from the State or Indian tribe with jurisdiction. Such Certification is based on a finding that the discharge would meet water quality standards and other applicable requirements.
In California, RWQCBs issue or deny Certification for discharges within their geographical jurisdiction.
Water Quality Certification must be based on a finding that the proposed discharge would comply with Plan. Where applicable, the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) has this responsibility for to all waters of the State and to all waters of the U.S., including wetlands. to waters of the State, shall provide the Federal permitting agency a certification from the State in which the discharge is proposed that states that the discharge would comply with the applicable provisions under the f
applicants must apply for and receive a Section 401 water quality certification from the RWQCB.
STATE
California Endangered Species Act (California Fish and Game Code Section 2050 et seq.) State-listed threatened and endangered species are protected under provisions of the California Endangered Species Act (CESA). Activities that
habitat necessary to maintain a viable breeding population of protected species.
The State of California considers an endangered species as one whose prospects of survival and reproduction are in immediate jeopardy. A threatened species is considered as one present in such small numbers throughout its range that it is likely to become an endangered species in the near future in the absence of special protection or management. A rare species is one that is considered present in such small numbers throughout its range that it may become endangered if its present environment worsens.
State threatened and endangered species are fully protected against take, as defined above.
The CDFW has also produced a Species of Special Concern list to serve as a species watch list. Species on this list are either of limited distribution or their habitats have been reduced substantially, such that a threat to their populations may be imminent. Species of special concern may receive special attention during environmental review, but they do not have formal statutory protection.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2021 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-20 Biological Resources California Environmental Quality Act
CEQA Guidelines Section 15380 independently de
fined
as those who are in such low numbers that they could become endangered if their environment worsens.
Lake and Streambed Alteration Program (California Fish and Game Code Sections 1600 through 1616) California Fish and Game Code Sections 1600 through 1616 establish a fee-based process to ensure that projects conducted in and around lakes, rivers, or streams do not adversely impact fish and wildlife resources, or, when adverse impacts cannot be avoided, ensures that adequate mitigation and/or compensation is provided.
Fish and Game Code Section 1602 requires any person, State, or local governmental agency or public utility to notify the CDFW before beginning any activity that would do one or more of the following:
Substantially obstruct or divert the natural flow of a river, stream, or lake; Substantially change or use any material from the bed, channel, or bank of a river, stream, or lake; or
Deposit or dispose of debris, waste, or other material containing crumbled, flaked, or ground pavement where it can pass into a river, stream, or lake.
Fish and Game Code Section 1602 applies to all perennial, intermittent, and ephemeral rivers, streams, wetlands) supported by a river, stream, or lake regardless of the presence or absence of hydric soils and saturated soil conditions. Generally, the CDFW takes jurisdiction to the top of bank of the stream or to the outer limit of the adjacent riparian vegetation (outer drip line), whichever is greater. Notification is generally required for any project that would take place in or in the vicinity of a river, stream, lake, or their tributaries. This includes rivers or streams that flow at least periodically or permanently through a bed or channel with banks that support fish or other aquatic life and watercourses having a surface or subsurface flow that support or have supported riparian vegetation.
Native Plant Protection Act (Fish and Game Code Sections 1900 through 1913) Fish and Game Code Sections 1900 through 1913 were developed to preserve, protect, and enhance Rare and Endangered plants in the State of California. The act requires all State agencies to use their authority to carry out programs to conserve Endangered and Rare native plants. Provisions of the Native Plant Protection Act prohibit the taking of listed plants from the wild and require notification of the CDFW at least ten days in advance of any change in land use which would adversely impact listed plants. This allows the CDFW to salvage listed plant species that would otherwise be destroyed.
California Fish and Game Code Sections 3503, 3503.5, 3511, 3513, 4700, 5050, and 5515 The CDFW administers the Fish and Game Code. There are particular sections of the Fish and Game Code that are applicable to natural resource management. For example, Section 3503 of the Code makes it unlawful to destroy the nests or eggs of any birds that are protected under the MBTA. Furthermore, any
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2022 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-21 Biological Resources birds in the orders Falconiformes or Strigiformes (Birds of Prey, such as hawks, eagles, and owls) are protected under Fish and Game Code Section 3503.5 which makes it unlawful to take, possess, or destroy their nest or eggs. A consultation with CDFW would be required prior to the removal of any bird of prey nest that may occur on a project site. Fish and Game Code Sections 3511, 4700, 5050, and 5515 list fully protected bird, mammal, reptile and amphibian, and fish species, respectively. The CDFW is unable to authorize the issuance of permits or licenses to take these species. Examples of species that are State fully protected include golden eagle and white-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus). Fish and Game Code Section 3513 makes it unlawful to take or possess any migratory nongame bird as designated in the MBTA or any part of such migratory nongame bird except as provided by rules and regulations adopted by the Secretary of the Interior under provisions of the MBTA.
California Native Plant Society Rare or Endangered Plant Species Vascular plants listed as rare or endangered by the CNPS, but which have no designated status under State and Federal endangered species legislation are defined as follows:
California Rare Plant Rank
1A. Plants Presumed Extirpated in California and either Rare or Extinct Elsewhere 1B. Plants Rare, Threatened, or Endangered in California and Elsewhere 2A. Plants Presumed Extirpated in California, But More Common Elsewhere 2B. Plants Rare, Threatened, or Endangered in California, But More Common Elsewhere
3. Plants about Which More Information is Needed - A Review List
4. Plants of Limited Distribution - A Watch List
Threat Ranks
1. Seriously threatened in California (over 80% of occurrences threatened/high degree and immediacy of threat)
2. Moderately threatened in California (20-80% occurrences threatened/moderate degree and immediacy of threat)
3. Not very threatened in California (<20% of occurrences threatened/low degree and immediacy of threat or no current threats known)
LOCAL
Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan The Western Riverside MSHCP is a comprehensive multi-jurisdictional habitat conservation plan focusing on the conservation of species and their associated habitats. It is one of several large multi-jurisdictional habitat-planning efforts in southern California with the overall goal of maintaining biological and ecological diversity within a rapidly urbanizing region. The MSHCP allows the County of Riverside and its cities to better control local land use decisions and maintain a strong economic climate in the region while addressing the requirements of the FESA (Western Riverside County Regional Conservation Authority [WRCRCA] 2003). The MSHCP area encompasses 1.26 million acres (1,966 square miles), including all unincorporated Riverside County land west of the crest of the San Jacinto Mountains to the Orange County
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2023 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-22 Biological Resources line, as well as the cities of Temecula, Murrieta, Lake Elsinore, Canyon Lake, Norco, Corona, Riverside, Moreno Valley, Banning, Beaumont, Calimesa, Perris, Hemet, Menifee, Eastvale, Jurupa Valley, and San Jacinto.
The MSHCP serves as a habitat conservation plan pursuant to Section 10(a)(1)(B) of the FESA, as amended, as well as a Natural Community Conservation Plan under the Natural Community Conservation Planning species identified within the plan area. The MSHCP designates Criteria Area boundaries, which contain Criteria Cells approximately 160 acres in size that have been identified as having conservation potential.
The establishment of Criteria Area boundaries is intended to facilitate the process by which jurisdictions will evaluate property that may be needed for inclusion in the MSHCP Conservation Area. The Criteria Area is an analytical tool within which property will be evaluated using MSHCP Conservation Criteria to determine what properties are needed for the MSHCP Conservation Area, and does not impose land use restrictions. Public and private development within the Criteria Area that is determined to be consistent with the MSHCP Conservation Criteria is considered a Covered Activity, and land not needed for the MSHCP Conservation Area shall receive Take Authorization for Covered Species Adequately Conserved through the permits issued by jurisdictions pursuant to the MSHCP.
The MSHCP requires all cities to adopt an ordinance imposing the Local Development Mitigation Fee, as described within the MSHCP document. In addition, cities within the jurisdiction are required to adopt an ordinance or resolution that adopts the MSHCP and establishes procedures and requirements for the implementation of its terms and conditions.
In 1996, USFWS approved a long-term habitat conservation plan an incidental take permit for Riverside County, covering an estimated 30,000 acres of occupied habitat (Riverside County Habitat Conservation Agency [RCHCA] 1996). The Plan authorizes the incidental take of half of the occupied habitat remaining in the Plan area while using development fees to implement the Plan, purchase private property, and create a reserve system. The reserve areas include suitable and occupied habit A portion of the Potrero Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC) Reserve, owned and managed by the Bureau of Land Management with approximately 900 acres cooperatively managed with the RCHCA, is located northeast of the SOI (RCHCA 2021). Habitat Conservation Plan and corresponding permits are Habitat Conservation
Plan and the MSHCP r
abitat Conservation Plan (RCHCA
1996) and as subsequently modified. The City of San Jacinto is not a part of the St Habitat Conservation Plan and is thus excluded from the Habitat Conservation Plan Fee Area; however, a portion of , northeast of City limits, is included in the Fee Area.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2024 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-23 Biological Resources City of San Jacinto Municipal Code
The City of San Jacinto Municipal Code Chapter 15.50, Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Program (MSHCP), Local Development Mitigation Fee Schedule as set forth by the WRCRCA, MSHCP, and associated documents.
The City of San Jacinto Municipal Code Chapter 12.20, Street Trees and Shrubs tree planting and street improvement plan and requires authorization for the planting, removal, and replacement of City trees within public parks, public grounds, public streets, and/or parking places.
SJDC Chapter 17.200, Establishment of Zones, Adoption of Zoning Map, Open Space General (OSG) and Open Space Recreation (OSR) zones, which are intended to provide open space for active and passive recreational activities and the conservation of natural and scenic resources.
SJDC Chapter 17.520, Natural Resource Conservation, provides uniform standards for proposed development and new land uses within the City to ensure the protection of important habitat, plant, soil, and water resources. SJDC Section 17.520.030, Plant and Habitat Conservation, ensures development projects comply with the applicable terms of the Western Riverside County MSHCP, including, but not limited to, the payment of mitigation fees, narrow endemic surveys, riparian/riverine policy, and other applicable surveys. Additionally, it requires applicants for a discretionary permit for property located in Criteria Area/Criteria Cell(s) as designated in MSHCP to submit a Habitat Evaluation and Acquisition Negotiation Strategy (HANS) application to the Riverside County Environmental Programs Department and subsequently to the Western Riverside Regional Conservation Authority (RCA) for Joint Project Review (JPR).
5.4.4 SIGNIFICANCE CRITERIA AND THRESHOLDS
Appendix G of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines contains the Initial Study Environmental Checklist, which includes questions related to biological resources. The issues presented in the Initial Study Environmental Checklist have been utilized as thresholds of significance in this section.
Accordingly, a project may create a significant environmental impact if it would:
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 Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; 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 Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service;
Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means; 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;
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2025 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-24 Biological Resources Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance; and
Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan.
CEQA Guidelines Section 15065(a), Mandatory Findings of Significance, states that a project may have a 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, reduce the number or restrict the range of an endangered, rare or threatened species An evaluation of whether an impact on biological resources would be substantial must consider both the resource itself and how that resource fits into a regional and/or local context. Substantial impacts would be those that would substantially diminish or result in the loss of, an important biological resource or those that would obviously conflict with local, State, or federal resource conservation plans, goals, or regulations. Impacts are sometimes locally adverse but not significant because, although they would result in an adverse alteration of existing conditions, they would not substantially diminish or result in the permanent loss of an important resource on a population- or region-wide basis.
CEQA Guidelines Section 15380, Endangered, Rare or Threatened Species, states that a lead agency can consider a non-listed species to be Rare, Threatened, or Endangered for the purposes of CEQA if the species can be shown to meet the criteria in the definition of Rare, Threatened, or Endangered. For the purposes of this discussion, the current scientific knowledge on the population size and distribution for each special-status species was considered according to the definitions for Rare, Threatened, and Endangered listed in CEQA Guidelines Section 15380.
5.4.5 IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
BIO-1: Would the project 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 Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? Impact Analysis: Future development associated with the General Plan Update would increase urbanization throughout the City with the potential to result in direct or indirect impacts to candidate, sensitive, or special-status species. The General Plan Update does not include any specific development proposals and would not result in significant direct impacts to existing biological resources; however, potential impacts may occur as a result of Project implementation. Potential impacts vary according to future proposed projects and include potential habitat loss and diminished habitat quality. Special-status species determined to have the potential to occur within the general vicinity of the Study Area are presented in Table 5.4-2 and Table 5.4-3. The following analysis is limited to those species that, based on habitat requirements, are known to regularly occur within the Study Area.
Pursuant to the special-status species search, 45 special-status plant species and 59 special-status wildlife species are located within a 12-quad search of San Jacinto and are considered candidate, sensitive, or
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2026 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-25 Biological Resources special status under FESA, CESA and/or CNPS/CRPR designation. These include species that are listed as endangered or threatened under FESA, species proposed, or candidates for such listing and species similarly listed under CESA. This list also includes species covered and not covered by the Western Riverside County MSHCP. Proposed planning actions could result in the permanent loss of habitat by allowing future development to occur. In addition, a CNDDB search revealed seven sensitive natural communities within the 12-quad search area (refer to Appendix C).
The implementation of the MSHCP for future implementing projects consistent with the General Plan Update at a project-specific level would minimize direct, indirect, and cumulative biological impacts. The MSHCP was prepared to provide for the take and mitigation of the 146 species covered under the MSHCP pursuant to the FESA, which includes most of the species listed above in Table 5.4-2 and Table 5.4-3. The MSHCP allows for the issuance of take at the local level, by MSHCP Permittees including the City, thereby streamlining the take authorization process on a project by-project basis.
Any open space set aside on a site or conserved elsewhere (for example, as part of MSHCP requirements) would provide protected habitat for the benefit of the common species as well as sensitive and protected species. As required by the MSHCP Implementing Agreement (Section 8.5), payment of the Local Development Mitigation Fee and compliance with all applicable requirements of the MSHCP provides full mitigation under CEQA, NEPA, FESA, and CESA for all direct, indirect and cumulative impacts to MSHCP covered species and habitats. The MSHCP also addresses indirect impacts through defined sub-areas consisting of habitats of appropriate size, configuration, and vegetation characteristics that specific covered species may live in or move through, as well as MSHCP fees. Furthermore, for MSHCP covered species, the Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Impact Statement (EIR/EIS) (State Clearinghouse No. 2001101108, CEQ Number 020463, ERP Number SFW-K99032-CA) prepared for the MSHCP was a project-specific EIR/EIS and found that with a combination of impact reduction features incorporated into the MSHCP, including reserve configuration, adaptive management and monitoring, and species survey and avoidance/minimization policies, development consistent with the MSHCP would have less than significant impacts to covered species.
Subsequent development under the proposed General Plan Update could result in direct impacts to certain species found present on an individual project site, particularly those not covered by the MSHCP.
Future development projects would be required to adhere to applicable federal, State, and local regulations that provide for sensitive species as part of the discretionary approval process for site-specific development projects. Compliance with applicable regulations at the time of future development would minimize adverse impacts to sensitive species. Additionally, the General Plan Update Resource Management Element includes policies and actions to preserve and protect biological resources within the Study Area. Policy RM-1.1 supports a balanced and integrated open space system that reflects a variety of considerations, including resource conservation, recreation, aesthetics, and community identity. Policy RM-1.3 preserve and enhances
biodiversity, with a special focus on sensitive, rare, or endangered plant and wildlife species in accordance with State and federal resource agency requirements. Policy RM-1.4 addresses regional cooperation by recognizing areas of overlapping jurisdiction with respect to open space and biological resources, such as the County MSHCP, and coordinating
Riverside County to protect and maximize regional open space. Policy RM-1.6 would conserve existing
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2027 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-26 Biological Resources native vegetation where possible and integrate regionally native plant species into development and infrastructure projects where appropriate. Action RM-1c directs the City to work closely with the USACE, USFWS, and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) during the discretionary project permitting and CEQA review of any project that may result in the alteration of a stream bed, involve the removal of vegetation in wetland and riparian habitats, disturb Waters of the United States or otherwise impact sensitive biological resources. Action RM-1d directs the City to cooperate with the County to develop and manage preserve areas within the urban landscape. During the review of development proposals, the City would use the MSHCP (particularly Section 3.2.13 San Jacinto Valley Area Plan) to help assess potential project impacts and mitigation requirements. Development in the City shall be required to comply with the applicable terms of the MSHCP including, but not limited to, the payment of mitigation fees, narrow endemic surveys, riparian/riverine policy, and other applicable surveys. Projects located within criteria cell areas shall be reviewed through the MSHCP Joint Project Review as appropriate.
Further, Action RM-1i addresses potential resources outside of the MSHCP area to ensure they are identified and addressed as part of the development review process. Action RM-1j would ensure that surveys are conducted if vegetation and tree removal is proposed to occur during the nesting bird season and to provide for buffers if active nests are confirmed. Adherence to these policies and actions during the discretionary review of future development projects would serve to minimize impacts to sensitive species.
Although numerous regulations including implementation of the MSHCP and General Plan Update policies and actions would minimize impacts to sensitive species, at a program level of review, it cannot be ensured that all impacts could be reduced to less than significant at the site-specific level. Therefore, potential impacts to candidate, sensitive, or special status species would be considered significant and unavoidable.
Proposed General Plan Update Goals, Policies, and Actions:
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ELEMENT
Goal RM-1: Natural Resources. A community that conserves and protects its natural resources.
Policy RM-1.1: Balanced Open Space System. Support a balanced and integrated open space system that reflects a variety of considerations, including resource conservation, recreation, aesthetics, and community identity.
Policy RM-1.3: Biological Resource Protection. Preserve and enhance biological communities that endangered plant and wildlife species in accordance with state and federal resource agency requirements.
Policy RM-1.4: Regional Cooperation. Recognize areas of overlapping jurisdiction with respect to open space and biological resources, such as the County of Riverside Multiple Species Habitat cities, agencies, and Riverside County to protect and maximize regional open space.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2028 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-27 Biological Resources Policy RM-1.6: Native Vegetation. Conserve existing native vegetation where possible and integrate regionally native plant species into development and infrastructure projects where appropriate.
Action RM-1c: Work closely with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) during the discretionary project permitting and CEQA review of any project that may result in the alteration of a stream bed, involve the removal of vegetation in wetland and riparian habitats, disturb Waters of the United States or otherwise impact sensitive biological resources.
Action RM-1d: Cooperate with the County of Riverside to develop and manage preserve areas within the urban landscape. During the review of development proposals, use the Western Riverside County MSHCP Habitat Conservation Plan (particularly Section 3.2.13 San Jacinto Valley Area Plan) to help assess potential project impacts and mitigation requirements.
Development in the City shall be required to comply with the applicable terms of the MSHCP including, but not limited to, the payment of mitigation fees, narrow endemic surveys, riparian/riverine policy, and other applicable surveys. Projects located within criteria cell areas shall be reviewed through the MSHCP Joint Project Review as appropriate.
Action RM-1i: During the development review process, require Applicants of developments with the potential to reduce or eliminate habitat for native plant and wildlife species or sensitive habitats not covered by the MSHCP, as
Development Department, to prepare a site-specific general biological resources survey to identify the presence of any sensitive biological resources, including any sensitive plant or wildlife species. The report shall identify the need for focused presence/absence surveys and identify the presence of state or federal regulated wetlands or waters.
Required surveys shall be conducted by qualified biologists and/or botanists in accordance with California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and/or United States Fish and Wildlife Services (USFWS) survey protocols for target species. If no sensitive species are observed during the field survey then no further mitigation will be required.
If sensitive species or habitats, including wetlands are documented on the project site, the project applicant shall comply with the applicable requirements of the regulatory agencies and shall apply mitigation determined through the agency permitting process.
Action RM-1j: Where feasible, vegetation and tree removal should occur outside of the bird nesting season (February 1 to August 31). If not feasible, the project applicant shall retain a qualified biologist to conduct a nesting bird survey no more than three days prior to the commencement of construction activities. The biologist conducting the clearance survey shall document the negative results if no active bird nests are observed on the project site or within the vicinity during the clearance survey with a brief letter report, submitted to the City of San Jacinto Community Development Department prior to construction, indicating that no impacts to active bird nests would occur before construction can proceed. If an active avian nest is discovered during the pre-construction clearance
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2029 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-28 Biological Resources survey, construction activities shall stay outside a 300-foot buffer around the active nest.
For listed and raptor species, this buffer shall be 500 feet. A biological monitor shall be present to delineate the boundaries of the buffer area and to monitor the active nest to ensure the nesting behavior is not adversely affected by construction activity, pursuant to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). Prior to the commencement of construction activities and the issuance of any permits, results of the pre-construction survey and any subsequent monitoring shall be provided to the City of San Jacinto Community Development Department, California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), and other appropriate agencies.
Mitigation Measures: There is no feasible mitigation available for this impact.
Level of Significance: Significant and Unavoidable Impact.
BIO-2: 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 Game or US Fish and Wildlife Service? Impact Analysis: The CDFW considers sensitive natural communities to have significant biotic value, with species of plants and animals unique to each community. The CNDDB search revealed seven sensitive natural communities within the 12-quad search area. The sensitive natural communities within the 12- quad search area include Canyon Live Oak Ravine Forest, Desert Fan Palm Oasis Woodland, Southern Coast Live Oak Riparian Forest, Southern Cottonwood Willow Riparian Forest, Southern Mixed Riparian Forest, Southern Riparian Scrub, and Southern Sycamore Alder Riparian Woodland. All seven of these community types were once more widely distributed throughout California, but have been modified or destroyed by grazing, cultivation, and urban development. Since the remaining examples of these sensitive natural communities are under continuing threat from future development, CDFW considers Of these seven sensitive natural communities
documented within the 12-quad search, four are located within one-mile of the Study Area.
While not always documented as a sensitive natural community in the CNDDB, streams, rivers, wet meadows, and vernal pools are of high concern because they provide unique aquatic habitat for many endemic species, including special status plants, birds, invertebrates, and amphibians. The Study Area contains numerous aquatic habitats that qualify as sensitive habitat. Figure 5.10-1, Hydrologic Units, and Figure 5.10-2, Hydrologic Areas, show local waterways in relation to the City. Aquatic resources found in the Study Area include: San Jacinto River, Potrero Creek, Colorado River Aqueduct, San Diego Aqueduct, Casa Loma Canal, San Diego Canal, Bautista Wash, San Jacinto Reservoir, and Cottonwood Lake. These aquatic resources are further discussed in Section 5.10, Hydrology and Water Quality. Additionally, Figure
5.4-4, The National Wetlands Inventory: Surface Waters and Wetlands, identifies surface waters and wetland resources within the City, as mapped by the USFW. Wetland resources are distributed throughout the Study Area.
Subsequent development under the proposed General Plan Update could result in impacts to riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community. This is considered a potentially significant impact.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2030 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-29 Biological Resources Potential impacts would need to be assessed on a project-specific basis once site-specific development is proposed. Under the MSHCP, any proposed Project would require an assessment for impacts to riparian habitat to determine the presence/absence of such habitat and the measures necessary to mitigate potential direct and indirect impacts associated with the specific development. The General Plan Update Resource Management Element also includes policies and actions intended to protect sensitive natural communities, including riparian habitat, from adverse effects associated with future development and improvement projects within the Study Area. Policy RM-1.1 supports a balanced and integrated open space system that reflects a variety of considerations, including resource conservation, recreation, aesthetics, and community identity. Policy RM-1.3 preserves and enhances biological communities that contribute to the regi
wildlife species in accordance with State and federal resource agency requirements. Policy RM-1.4 addresses regional cooperation by recognizing areas of overlapping jurisdiction with respect to open space and biological resources, such as the MSHCP, and coordinating surrounding cities, agencies, and Riverside County to protect and maximize regional open space. Policy RM-1.6 would conserve existing native vegetation where possible and integrate regionally native plant species into development and infrastructure projects where appropriate. Action RM-1c directs the City to work closely with the USACE, USFWS, and the CDFW during the discretionary project permitting and CEQA review of any project that may result in the alteration of a stream bed, involve the removal of vegetation in wetland and riparian habitats, disturb Waters of the United States or otherwise impact sensitive biological resources. Action RM-1d directs the City to cooperate with the County to develop and manage preserve areas within the urban landscape. During the review of development proposals, the City would use the MSHCP (particularly Section 3.2.13 San Jacinto Valley Area Plan) to help assess potential project impacts and mitigation requirements. Development in the City shall be required to comply with the applicable terms of the MSHCP including, but not limited to, the payment of mitigation fees, narrow endemic surveys, riparian/riverine policy, and other applicable surveys. Projects located within criteria cell areas shall be reviewed through the MSHCP Joint Project Review as appropriate. Further, Action RM1i addresses potential resources outside of the MSHCP area to ensure they are identified and addressed as part of the development review process. Action RM-1j would ensure that vegetation and tree removal occurring during the nesting bird season conduct surveys prior to the commencement of construction activities and to provide for buffers if active nests are confirmed. Policy RM-2.4 encourages development that avoids impacts to watershed areas, wetlands, natural drainage channels, riparian areas, and creeks, retaining these resources in their natural condition if feasible. Action RM-2b directs the City to cooperate with the RWQCB to develop a plan to assist agricultural operations to reduce nitrate and sediment input to surface waters. Such a plan will enhance water quality and benefit aquatic plants and wildlife within the planning area as well as downstream. Future development projects would be required to comply with the General Plan Update and adopted federal, State, and local regulations for the protection of sensitive natural communities, including riparian habitat.
Although numerous regulations including implementation of the MSHCP and General Plan Update policies and actions would minimize impacts to sensitive riparian habitat, at a program level of review, it cannot be ensured that all impacts could be reduced to less than significant at the site-specific level. Therefore, potential impacts to riparian habitat and other sensitive natural communities would be considered significant and unavoidable.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2031 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-30 Biological Resources Proposed General Plan Update Goals, Policies, and Actions:
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ELEMENT
Goal RM-1: Natural Resources. A community that conserves and protects its natural resources.
Policy RM-1.1: Balanced Open Space System. Support a balanced and integrated open space system that reflects a variety of considerations, including resource conservation, recreation, aesthetics, and community identity.
Policy RM-1.3: Biological Resource Protection. Preserve and enhance biological communities that rare, or
endangered plant and wildlife species in accordance with state and federal resource agency requirements.
Policy RM-1.4: Regional Cooperation. Recognize areas of overlapping jurisdiction with respect to open space and biological resources, such as the County of Riverside Multiple Species Habitat cities, agencies, and Riverside County to protect and maximize regional open space.
Policy RM-1.6: Native Vegetation. Conserve existing native vegetation where possible and integrate regionally native plant species into development and infrastructure projects where appropriate.
Action RM-1c: Work closely with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), and the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) during the discretionary project permitting and CEQA review of any project that may result in the alteration of a stream bed, involve the removal of vegetation in wetland and riparian habitats, disturb Waters of the United States or otherwise impact sensitive biological resources.
Action RM-1d: Cooperate with the County of Riverside to develop and manage preserve areas within the urban landscape. During the review of development proposals, use the Western Riverside County MSHCP Habitat Conservation Plan (particularly Section 3.2.13 San Jacinto Valley Area Plan) to help assess potential project impacts and mitigation requirements.
Development in the City shall be required to comply with the applicable terms of the MSHCP including, but not limited to, the payment of mitigation fees, narrow endemic surveys, riparian/riverine policy, and other applicable surveys. Projects located within criteria cell areas shall be reviewed through the MSHCP Joint Project Review as appropriate.
Action RM-1i: During the development review process, require Applicants of developments with the potential to reduce or eliminate habitat for native plant and wildlife species or sensitive habitats not covered by
Development Department, to prepare a site-specific general biological resources survey to identify the presence of any sensitive biological resources, including any sensitive plant or wildlife species. The report shall identify the need for focused presence/absence
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2032 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-31 Biological Resources surveys and identify the presence of state or federal regulated wetlands or waters.
Required surveys shall be conducted by qualified biologists and/or botanists in accordance with California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and/or United States Fish and Wildlife Services (USFWS) survey protocols for target species. If no sensitive species are observed during the field survey then no further mitigation will be required.
If sensitive species or habitats, including wetlands are documented on the project site, the project applicant shall comply with the applicable requirements of the regulatory agencies and shall apply mitigation determined through the agency permitting process.
Action RM-1j: Where feasible, vegetation and tree removal should occur outside of the bird nesting season (February 1 to August 31). If not feasible, the project applicant shall retain a qualified biologist to conduct a nesting bird survey no more than three days prior to the commencement of construction activities. The biologist conducting the clearance survey shall document the negative results if no active bird nests are observed on the project site or within the vicinity during the clearance survey with a brief letter report, submitted to the City of San Jacinto Community Development Department prior to construction, indicating that no impacts to active bird nests would occur before construction can proceed. If an active avian nest is discovered during the pre-construction clearance survey, construction activities shall stay outside a 300-foot buffer around the active nest.
For listed and raptor species, this buffer shall be 500 feet. A biological monitor shall be present to delineate the boundaries of the buffer area and to monitor the active nest to ensure the nesting behavior is not adversely affected by construction activity, pursuant to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). Prior to the commencement of construction activities and the issuance of any permits, results of the pre-construction survey and any subsequent monitoring shall be provided to the City of San Jacinto Community Development Department, California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), and other appropriate agencies.
Policy RM-2.4: Natural Conditions. Encourage development that avoids impacts to watershed areas, wetlands, natural drainage channels, riparian areas, and creeks, retaining these resources in their natural condition if feasible.
Action RM-2b: Cooperate with the Regional Water Quality Control Board to develop a plan to assist agricultural operations to reduce nitrate and sediment input to surface waters. Such a plan will enhance water quality and benefit aquatic plants and wildlife within the planning area as well as downstream.
Mitigation Measures: There is no feasible mitigation available for this impact.
Level of Significance: Significant and Unavoidable Impact.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2033 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-32 Biological Resources BIO-3: 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? Impact Analysis: Streams, rivers, wet meadows, and vernal pools (wetlands and jurisdictional waters) are of high concern because they provide unique aquatic habitat (perennial and ephemeral) for many endemic species, including special status plants, birds, invertebrates, and amphibians. These aquatic habitats oftentimes qualify as protected wetlands or jurisdictional waters and are protected from disturbance through the CWA.
As indicated in Impact BIO-2 and described in Section 5.10 of this Draft EIR, the Study Area contains numerous aquatic habitats that qualify as federally protected wetlands and jurisdictional waters. Section 404 of the CWA requires any project that involves disturbance to a wetland or water of the U.S. to obtain a permit that authorizes the disturbance. If a wetland or jurisdictional water is determined to be present, then a permit must be obtained from the USACE to authorize a disturbance to the wetland. Although subsequent projects may disturb protected wetlands and/or jurisdictional waters, the regulatory process jurisdictional waters. If, through the design process, it is determined that a future development project cannot avoid a wetland or jurisdictional water, then the USACE would require that there be an equal amount of wetland created elsewhere to mitigate any loss of wetland.
Construction activities associated with individual future projects could result in the disturbance or loss of waters of the United States. This includes perennial and intermittent drainages; unnamed drainages; vernal pools; freshwater marshes; and other types of seasonal and perennial wetland communities.
Wetlands and other waters of the United States could be affected through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption (including dewatering), alteration of bed and bank, and other constructionrelated activities.
The General Plan Update is a planning document that enables additional development but does not include any specific development proposals; therefore, adoption of the General Plan Update would not directly impact the environment. However, the Project could have an indirect change on the physical environment through subsequently approved projects that are consistent with the buildout under the General Plan Update. Subsequent development under the proposed General Plan Update could result in impacts to wetlands. This is considered a potentially significant impact. Individual projects would require a detailed and site-specific review of the site to determine the presence or absence of water features. If water features are present and disturbance is required, federal and State laws require measures to reduce, avoid, or compensate for impacts to these resources. The requirements of these federal and State laws are implemented through the permit process. Additionally, the General Plan Resource Management Element includes policies and actions intended to protect sensitive natural communities, including wetlands, from adverse effects associated with future development and improvement projects within the Study Area. Policy RM-1.1 supports a balanced and integrated open space system that reflects a variety of considerations, including resource conservation, recreation, aesthetics, and community identity. Policy RM-1.3 preserves and enhances biological communities tha a special focus on sensitive, rare, or endangered plant and wildlife species in accordance with State and
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2034 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-33 Biological Resources federal resource agency requirements. Policy RM-1.4 addresses regional cooperation by recognizing areas of overlapping jurisdiction with respect to open space and biological resources, such as the MSHCP, and coordinating
and maximize regional open space. Policy RM-1.6 would conserve existing native vegetation where possible and integrate regionally native plant species into development and infrastructure projects where appropriate. Action RM-1c directs the City to work closely with the USACE, USFWS, and the CDFW during the discretionary project permitting and CEQA review of any project that may result in the alteration of a stream bed, involve the removal of vegetation in wetland and riparian habitats, disturb Waters of the United States or otherwise impact sensitive biological resources. Action RM-1d directs the City to cooperate with the County to develop and manage preserve areas within the urban landscape. During the review of development proposals, the City would use the MSHCP (particularly Section 3.2.13 San Jacinto Valley Area Plan) to help assess potential project impacts and mitigation requirements. Development in the City shall be required to comply with the applicable terms of the MSHCP including, but not limited to, the payment of mitigation fees, narrow endemic surveys, riparian/riverine policy, and other applicable surveys. Projects located within criteria cell areas shall be reviewed through the MSHCP Joint Project Review as appropriate. Further, Action RM-1i addresses potential resources outside of the MSHCP area, including the requirement to identify the presence of state or federal regulated wetlands or waters and to ensure compliance with the applicable requirements of the regulatory agencies and application of any mitigation determined through the agency permitting process. Policy RM-2.4 encourages development that avoids impacts to watershed areas, wetlands, natural drainage channels, riparian areas, and creeks, retaining these resources in their natural condition if feasible. Action RM-2b directs the City to cooperate with the RWQCB to develop a plan to assist agricultural operations to reduce nitrate and sediment input to surface waters. Such a plan will enhance water quality and benefit aquatic plants and wildlife within the planning area as well as downstream. Compliance with federal, State, and local regulations, and implementation of General Plan Update policies and actions, and implementation would reduce potential impacts to wetlands to a less than significant level.
Proposed General Plan Update Goals, Policies, and Actions:
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ELEMENT
Goal RM-1: Natural Resources. A community that conserves and protects its natural resources.
Policy RM-1.1: Balanced Open Space System. Support a balanced and integrated open space system that reflects a variety of considerations, including resource conservation, recreation, aesthetics, and community identity.
Policy RM-1.3: Biological Resource Protection. Preserve and enhance biological communities that contrib
endangered plant and wildlife species in accordance with state and federal resource agency requirements.
Policy RM-1.4: Regional Cooperation. Recognize areas of overlapping jurisdiction with respect to open space and biological resources, such as the County of Riverside Multiple Species Habitat
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2035 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-34 Biological Resources cities, agencies, and Riverside County to protect and maximize regional open space.
Policy RM-1.6: Native Vegetation. Conserve existing native vegetation where possible and integrate regionally native plant species into development and infrastructure projects where appropriate.
Action RM-1c: Work closely with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) during the discretionary project permitting and CEQA review of any project that may result in the alteration of a stream bed, involve the removal of vegetation in wetland and riparian habitats, disturb Waters of the United States or otherwise impact sensitive biological resources.
Action RM-1d: Cooperate with the County of Riverside to develop and manage preserve areas within the urban landscape. During the review of development proposals, use the Western Riverside County MSHCP Habitat Conservation Plan (particularly Section 3.2.13 San Jacinto Valley Area Plan) to help assess potential project impacts and mitigation requirements.
Development in the City shall be required to comply with the applicable terms of the MSHCP including, but not limited to, the payment of mitigation fees, narrow endemic surveys, riparian/riverine policy, and other applicable surveys. Projects located within criteria cell areas shall be reviewed through the MSHCP Joint Project Review as appropriate.
Action RM-1i: During the development review process, require Applicants of developments with the potential to reduce or eliminate habitat for native plant and wildlife species or sensitive Development Department, to prepare a site-specific general biological resources survey to identify the presence of any sensitive biological resources, including any sensitive plant or wildlife species. The report shall identify the need for focused presence/absence surveys and identify the presence of state or federal regulated wetlands or waters.
Required surveys shall be conducted by qualified biologists and/or botanists in accordance with California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and/or United States Fish and Wildlife Services (USFWS) survey protocols for target species. If no sensitive species are observed during the field survey then no further mitigation will be required.
If sensitive species or habitats, including wetlands are documented on the project site, the project applicant shall comply with the applicable requirements of the regulatory agencies and shall apply mitigation determined through the agency permitting process.
Policy RM-2.4: Natural Conditions. Encourage development that avoids impacts to watershed areas, wetlands, natural drainage channels, riparian areas, and creeks, retaining these resources in their natural condition if feasible.
Action RM-2b: Cooperate with the Regional Water Quality Control Board to develop a plan to assist agricultural operations to reduce nitrate and sediment input to surface waters. Such a
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2036 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-35 Biological Resources plan will enhance water quality and benefit aquatic plants and wildlife within the planning area as well as downstream.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
Level of Significance: Less Than Significant Impact.
BIO-4: 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? Impact Analysis: Habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation resulting from land use changes or habitat conversion can alter the use and viability of wildlife movement corridors (i.e., linear habitats that naturally connect and provide passage between two or more otherwise disjunct larger habitats or habitat fragments). Wildlife habitat corridors maintain connectivity for daily movement, travel, mate-seeking, and migration; plant propagation; genetic interchange; population movement in response to environmental change or natural disaster; and recolonization of habitats subject to local extirpation or removal. The suitability of a habitat as a wildlife movement corridor is related to, among other factors, the habitat species in question.
as thru-ways between outlying habitats. The habitat requirements for passage species are generally less than those for corridor dwellers. Passage species use corridors for brief durations, such as for seasonal migrations or movement within a home range. As such, movement corridors do not necessarily have to meet any of the habitat requirements necessary for a passage species everyday survival. a category that includes most plants,
insects, reptiles, amphibians, small mammals, and birds and use corridors for a greater length of time.
Future development under the General Plan Update could result in creation of new barriers to animal movement in the urbanizing portions of the City; however, impacts to wildlife movement would be mitigated through the establishment of corridors and linkages established by compliance with the Western Riverside MSHCP.
As described above, the Western Riverside MSHCP establishes Criteria Area/Cells along with a system of corridors and linkages to accommodate areas with conservation potential and enable wildlife movement within the open areas. These Criteria Cells, corridors, and linkages occur generally along open space areas along the northeastern portion of the Study Area (San Jacinto River, Gilman Hot Springs, and Soboba Hot Springs) and western portion of the Study Area (Lakeview Mountains).
Future intensified development within these areas would have the potential to result in direct or indirect impacts. Direct impacts to wildlife movement corridors generally occur from blockage or interference with the connectivity between blocks of habitat, a decrease in the width of a corridor or linkage that constrains movement, or the loss of visual continuity within a linkage or corridor. Even when not directly constrained by development, corridors are also vulnerable to edge effects and human encroachment as well. In accordance with SJDC Section 17.520.030, Plant and Habitat Conservation, future development projects
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2037 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-36 Biological Resources would be required to comply with the applicable terms in the MSHCP, including, but not limited to, the payment of mitigation fees, narrow endemic surveys, riparian/riverine policy, and other applicable surveys. Additionally, applicants for a discretionary permit for property located in Criteria Area/Criteria Cell(s) as designated in Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan must submit a Habitat Evaluation and Acquisition Negotiation Strategy (HANS) application to the Riverside County Environmental Programs Department and subsequently to the Western Riverside Regional Conservation Authority (RCA) for Joint Project Review (JPR). Compliance with the SJDC would prevent substantial interference with wildlife movement and corridors.
Wildlife nursery sites include areas that provide the resources necessary for reproduction of a species, including foraging habitat, breeding habitat and water sources. Direct impacts to nursery sites from implementation under the General Plan Update could include removal of habitat for development and infrastructure. Indirect impacts to nursery sites would have the potential to result from noise, lighting and changes in drainage patterns, introduction of pests or domestic animals, and other edge effects. These impacts can substantially interfere with native wildlife nursery sites. Determining whether or not a specific area is a nursery site requires field surveys, which are often only valid for a given breeding season depending on the wildlife species present.
In compliance with the Natural Community Conservation Planning Act, the Western Riverside County MSHCP is required by federal and State permitting authorities to provide for the movement of species, protect wildlife corridors and facilitate genetic flow. The MSHCP protects native wildlife nursery sites by requirements and the essential ecological processes of species which depend on such habitats. The EIR/EIS for the MSHCP concluded that the Plan provides for the movement of species through established wildlife corridors and protects the use of native wildlife nursery sites; therefore, compliance with the conservation requirements for the Cores, Linkages, and Habitat Blocks in the Study Area mentioned above would ensure wildlife nursery sites are not adversely impacted. In addition, the General Plan Resource Management Element includes policies and actions intended to preserve ecological and biological resources. Policy RM1.1 supports a balanced and integrated open space system that reflects a variety of considerations, including resource conservation, recreation, aesthetics, and community identity. Policy RM-1.3 preserves and enhances biological communit
sensitive, rare, or endangered plant and wildlife species in accordance with State and federal resource agency requirements. Policy RM-1.4 addresses regional cooperation by recognizing areas of overlapping jurisdiction with respect to open space and biological resources, such as the MSHCP, and coordinating the regional open space. Policy RM-1.6 would conserve existing native vegetation where possible and integrate regionally native plant species into development and infrastructure projects where appropriate.
Action RM-1c directs the City to work closely with the USACE, USFWS, and the CDFW during the discretionary project permitting and CEQA review of any project that may result in the alteration of a stream bed, involve the removal of vegetation in wetland and riparian habitats, disturb Waters of the United States or otherwise impact sensitive biological resources. Action RM-1d directs the City to cooperate with the County to develop and manage preserve areas within the urban landscape. During the review of development proposals, the City would use the MSHCP (particularly Section 3.2.13 San Jacinto
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2038 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-37 Biological Resources Valley Area Plan) to help assess potential project impacts and mitigation requirements. Development in the City shall be required to comply with the applicable terms of the MSHCP including, but not limited to, the payment of mitigation fees, narrow endemic surveys, riparian/riverine policy, and other applicable surveys. Projects located within criteria cell areas shall be reviewed through the MSHCP Joint Project Review as appropriate. Further, Action RM-1j requires vegetation and tree removal that would occur during the bird nesting season would be required to conduct surveys to determine whether active bird nests are observed within the site or vicinity. If active nests are identified, buffers would be required to be implemented and compliance with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) would be required. Thus, through the protections afforded by the MSHCP, the MBTA, and General Plan Update goals, policies, and actions, future development under the General Plan Update would have a less than significant impact associated with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or the use of native wildlife nursery sites.
Proposed General Plan Update Goals, Policies, and Actions:
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ELEMENT
Goal RM-1: Natural Resources. A community that conserves and protects its natural resources.
Policy RM-1.1: Balanced Open Space System. Support a balanced and integrated open space system that reflects a variety of considerations, including resource conservation, recreation, aesthetics, and community identity.
Policy RM-1.3: Biological Resource Protection. Preserve and enhance biological communities that contrib
endangered plant and wildlife species in accordance with state and federal resource agency requirements.
Policy RM-1.4: Regional Cooperation. Recognize areas of overlapping jurisdiction with respect to open space and biological resources, such as the County of Riverside Multiple Species Habitat cities, agencies, and Riverside County to protect and maximize regional open space.
Policy RM-1.6: Native Vegetation. Conserve existing native vegetation where possible and integrate regionally native plant species into development and infrastructure projects where appropriate.
Action RM-1c: Work closely with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) during the discretionary project permitting and CEQA review of any project that may result in the alteration of a stream bed, involve the removal of vegetation in wetland and riparian habitats, disturb Waters of the United States or otherwise impact sensitive biological resources.
Action RM-1d: Cooperate with the County of Riverside to develop and manage preserve areas within the urban landscape. During the review of development proposals, use the Western Riverside County MSHCP Habitat Conservation Plan (particularly Section 3.2.13 San Jacinto Valley
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2039 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-38 Biological Resources Area Plan) to help assess potential project impacts and mitigation requirements.
Development in the City shall be required to comply with the applicable terms of the MSHCP including, but not limited to, the payment of mitigation fees, narrow endemic surveys, riparian/riverine policy, and other applicable surveys. Projects located within criteria cell areas shall be reviewed through the MSHCP Joint Project Review as appropriate.
Action RM-1j: Where feasible, vegetation and tree removal should occur outside of the bird nesting season (February 1 to August 31). If not feasible, the project applicant shall retain a qualified biologist to conduct a nesting bird survey no more than three days prior to the commencement of construction activities. The biologist conducting the clearance survey shall document the negative results if no active bird nests are observed on the project site or within the vicinity during the clearance survey with a brief letter report, submitted to the City of San Jacinto Community Development Department prior to construction, indicating that no impacts to active bird nests would occur before construction can proceed. If an active avian nest is discovered during the pre-construction clearance survey, construction activities shall stay outside a 300-foot buffer around the active nest.
For listed and raptor species, this buffer shall be 500 feet. A biological monitor shall be present to delineate the boundaries of the buffer area and to monitor the active nest to ensure the nesting behavior is not adversely affected by construction activity, pursuant to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). Prior to the commencement of construction activities and the issuance of any permits, results of the pre-construction survey and any subsequent monitoring shall be provided to the City of San Jacinto Community Development Department, California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), and other appropriate agencies.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
Level of Significance: Less Than Significant Impact.
BIO-5: Would the project conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? Impact Analysis: Future development under the General Plan Update would be subject to all applicable federal, State, regional, and local policies and regulations related to the protection of biological resources as outlined above. The City does not have a tree preservation policy or ordinance; however, San Jacinto Municipal Code tree planting and street improvement plan and requires authorization for the removal of trees in public parks, public grounds, public streets or parking places in the City. In addition, the General Plan Resource Management Element includes policies and actions intended to protect biological resources. Policy RM-1.3 preserves and enhances biological endangered plant and wildlife species in accordance with State and federal resource agency requirements. Policy RM-1.4 addresses regional cooperation by recognizing areas of overlapping jurisdiction with respect to open space and biological resources, such as the MSHCP, and coordinating the
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2040 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-39 Biological Resources d Riverside County to protect and maximize
regional open space. Action RM-1c directs the City to work closely with the USACE, USFWS, and the CDFW during the discretionary project permitting and CEQA review of any project that may result in the alteration of a stream bed, involve the removal of vegetation in wetland and riparian habitats, disturb Waters of the United States or otherwise impact sensitive biological resources. During the review of development proposals, the City would use the MSHCP (particularly Section 3.2.13 San Jacinto Valley Area Plan) to help assess potential project impacts and mitigation requirements. Development in the City shall be required to comply with the applicable terms of the MSHCP including, but not limited to, the payment of mitigation fees, narrow endemic surveys, riparian/riverine policy, and other applicable surveys. Projects located within criteria cell areas shall be reviewed through the MSHCP Joint Project Review as appropriate.
Future development projects would be assessed for consistency with the San Jacinto Municipal Code and General Plan Update goals, policies, and actions. Thus, the General Plan Update would not conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources and impacts would be less than significant tin this regard.
Proposed General Plan Update Goals, Policies, and Actions:
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ELEMENT
Goal RM-1: Natural Resources. A community that conserves and protects its natural resources.
Policy RM-1.1: Balanced Open Space System. Support a balanced and integrated open space system that reflects a variety of considerations, including resource conservation, recreation, aesthetics, and community identity.
Policy RM-1.3: Biological Resource Protection. Preserve and enhance biological communities that endangered plant and wildlife species in accordance with state and federal resource agency requirements.
Policy RM-1.4: Regional Cooperation. Recognize areas of overlapping jurisdiction with respect to open space and biological resources, such as the County of Riverside Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (M
cities, agencies, and Riverside County to protect and maximize regional open space.
Policy RM-1.6: Native Vegetation. Conserve existing native vegetation where possible and integrate regionally native plant species into development and infrastructure projects where appropriate.
Action RM-1c: Work closely with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) during the discretionary project permitting and CEQA review of any project that may result in the alteration of a stream bed, involve the removal of vegetation in wetland and riparian habitats, disturb Waters of the United States or otherwise impact sensitive biological resources.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2041 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-40 Biological Resources Action RM-1d: Cooperate with the County of Riverside to develop and manage preserve areas within the urban landscape. During the review of development proposals, use the Western Riverside County MSHCP Habitat Conservation Plan (particularly Section 3.2.13 San Jacinto Valley Area Plan) to help assess potential project impacts and mitigation requirements.
Development in the City shall be required to comply with the applicable terms of the MSHCP including, but not limited to, the payment of mitigation fees, narrow endemic surveys, riparian/riverine policy, and other applicable surveys. Projects located within criteria cell areas shall be reviewed through the MSHCP Joint Project Review as appropriate.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
Level of Significance: Less Than Significant Impact.
BIO-6: 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?
Impact Analysis: There are two Habitat Conservation Plans/Natural Community Conservation Plans within the Study Area: the and the Western Riverside County
Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP).
As described in Section 5.4.3 above, the northeastern portion of the Study Area, within the City of San lies within the . The portion of the Study Area within the located within unincorporated Riverside County. As shown in Figure 3-4, General Plan Update Land Use Map, the General Plan Update designates the area within the . The General Plan Update is in conformance with the
, as evidenced by the area remaining as Open Space in
the Potrero ACEC Reserve area, as designated by the Habitat Conservation Plan.
As described in Section 5.4.2 above, the Study Area lies within the Western Riverside County MSHCP, which is a comprehensive multi-jurisdictional habitat conservation plan focusing on the conservation of species and their associated habitats within a 1.26-million-acre jurisdictional area in Western Riverside County. The MSHCP provides coverage (including take authorization for listed species) for special-status plant and wildlife species, as well as mitigation measures for impacts to sensitive species.
As shown in Figure 3-3, Existing General Plan Land Use Map, and Figure 3-4, General Plan Update Land Use Map, the General Plan Update has been designed to direct future development and redevelopment to areas that are already developed or designated for development, and would maintain 6,189 acres of existing Open Space areas in the San Jacinto Mountain foothills in the northeast and Lakeview Mountains in the western portion of the Study Area. Focusing development and redevelopment within areas that consist primarily of developed and/or disturbed land would minimize conflicts with the MSHCP. However, future development and redevelopment may include future projects within MSHCP Conserved Lands, Criteria Cells, and Public/Quasi Public Lands. Such future development would be required to undergo project-specific environmental and design review to determine whether the project would be consistent
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2042 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-41 Biological Resources with the MSHCP. Additionally, the General Plan Update includes goals, policies, and actions that would maintain, protect, and preserve biologically significant habitats where practical, which would serve to maintain consistency with the MSHCP. Policy RM-1.3 preserves and enhances biological communities that co
wildlife species in accordance with State and federal resource agency requirements. Policy RM-1.4 addresses regional cooperation by recognizing areas of overlapping jurisdiction with respect to open space and biological resources, such as the MSHCP, and coordinating surrounding cities, agencies, and Riverside County to protect and maximize regional open space. Action RM-1c directs the City to work closely with the USACE, USFWS, and the CDFW during the discretionary project permitting and CEQA review of any project that may result in the alteration of a stream bed, involve the removal of vegetation in wetland and riparian habitats, disturb Waters of the United States or otherwise impact sensitive biological resources. Action RM-1d directs City to cooperate with the County to develop and manage preserve areas within the urban landscape. During the review of development proposals, the City would use the MSHCP (particularly Section 3.2.13 San Jacinto Valley Area Plan) to help assess potential project impacts and mitigation requirements. Development in the City shall be required to comply with the applicable terms of the MSHCP including, but not limited to, the payment of mitigation fees, narrow endemic surveys, riparian/riverine policy, and other applicable surveys. Projects located within criteria cell areas shall be reviewed through the MSHCP Joint Project Review as appropriate. As such, implementation of the General Plan Update would not conflict with the provisions of the Western Riverside County MSHCP or other approved local,
regional, or State habitat conservation plan and impacts would be less than significant.
Proposed General Plan Update Goals, Policies, and Actions:
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ELEMENT
Goal RM-1: Natural Resources. A community that conserves and protects its natural resources.
Policy RM-1.1: Balanced Open Space System. Support a balanced and integrated open space system that reflects a variety of considerations, including resource conservation, recreation, aesthetics, and community identity.
Policy RM-1.3: Biological Resource Protection. Preserve and enhance biological communities that endangered plant and wildlife species in accordance with state and federal resource agency requirements.
Policy RM-1.4: Regional Cooperation. Recognize areas of overlapping jurisdiction with respect to open space and biological resources, such as the County of Riverside Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (M
cities, agencies, and Riverside County to protect and maximize regional open space.
Policy RM-1.6: Native Vegetation. Conserve existing native vegetation where possible and integrate regionally native plant species into development and infrastructure projects where appropriate.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2043 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-42 Biological Resources Action RM-1c: Work closely with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) during the discretionary project permitting and CEQA review of any project that may result in the alteration of a stream bed, involve the removal of vegetation in wetland and riparian habitats, disturb Waters of the United States or otherwise impact sensitive biological resources.
Action RM-1d: Cooperate with the County of Riverside to develop and manage preserve areas within the urban landscape. During the review of development proposals, use the Western Riverside County MSHCP Habitat Conservation Plan (particularly Section 3.2.13 San Jacinto Valley Area Plan) to help assess potential project impacts and mitigation requirements.
Development in the City shall be required to comply with the applicable terms of the MSHCP including, but not limited to, the payment of mitigation fees, narrow endemic surveys, riparian/riverine policy, and other applicable surveys. Projects located within criteria cell areas shall be reviewed through the MSHCP Joint Project Review as appropriate.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
Level of Significance: Less Than Significant Impact.
5.4.6 CUMULATIVE IMPACTS
Impact Analysis: Cumulative development anticipated throughout Riverside County would result in impacts to biological resources, including the permanent loss of habitat for special status species, corridor fragmentation, direct and indirect impacts to special status species, and reduction and degradation of sensitive habitat. Growth pressure not just from the General Plan Update, but including other surrounding cities and the County areas would contribute to potential sprawl and conversion of open lands into developed areas. Biological resources are a limited resource and the cumulative loss is considered significant.
The General Plan Update does not change land use designations from open space to development; rather the General Plan Update merely intensifies land uses in areas already considered for development.
Subsequent projects implemented under the General Plan Update would be required to be consistent with the proposed General Plan policies and actions. The implementation of an individual project would require site-specific review to determine the presence or absence of movement corridors, special-status species, and sensitive habitat on a given project site. If movement corridors, special-status species, or sensitive habitat are present and disturbance is required, federal and State laws require measures to reduce, avoid, or compensate for impacts to these resources.
Additionally, the implementation of the Western Riverside County MSHCP for future implementing projects consistent with the General Plan Update at a project-specific level would minimize direct, indirect, and cumulative biological impacts. The MSHCP allows for the issuance of take at the local level, by MSHCP Permittees including the City, thereby streamlining the take authorization process on a projectby-project basis. Compliance with the provisions of the MSHCP fully mitigate impacts to covered species and habitats. An impact is not considered cumulatively considerable if a project is required to implement
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2044 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-43 Biological Resources or fund its fair share of mitigation measures designed to alleviate a cumulative impact (CEQA Guidelines Section 15130 (a)(3)). Compliance with the MSHCP, as well as the polices and mitigation measures identified in Section 5.4.3 and State and federal regulations governing biological resources, will result in less than cumulatively considerable impacts. Therefore, the incremental contribution to this cumulative impact would be less than cumulatively considerable.
Proposed General Plan Update Goals, Policies, and Actions: Refer to the General Plan goals, policies, and actions cited above.
Mitigation Measures: Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
Level of Significance: Less Than Significant Impact.
5.4.7 SIGNIFICANT UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS
The General Plan Update would result in a significant unavoidable impact for the following areas:
General Plan implementation could have a substantial adverse effect on sensitive species associated with site-specific development.
General Plan implementation could have a substantial adverse effect on riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community associated with site-specific development.
All other impacts to biological resources associated with implementation of the General Plan Update would be less than significant.
If the City of San Jacinto approves the General Plan Update, the City will be required to make findings in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15091 and prepare a Statement of Overriding Considerations
5.4.8 REFERENCES
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), Wildlife Habitats - California Wildlife Habitat Relationships System, https://wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CWHR/Wildlife-Habitats, accessed September 20, 2021.
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), National Wetlands Inventory: Surface Waters and Wetlands, https://www.fws.gov/wetlands/data/Mapper.html, accessed October 29, 2021.
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB), accessed in October 2021.
County of Riverside and United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) Final EIR/EIS, June 2003.
Guzy, G. and Anderson, R., Memorandum: Supreme Court Ruling Concerning CWA Jurisdiction of Isolated Waters: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Army Corps of Engineers, January 2001.
Riverside County Habitat Conservation Agency (RCHCA), Habitat Conservat Kangaroo Rat in Western Riverside County, March 1996.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2045 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.4-44 Biological Resources Riverside County Habitat Conservation Agency (RCHCA), Reserves, https://www.rchca.us/159/Reserves, accessed October 25, 2021.
State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB), OWTS Policy Preliminary Substitute Environmental Document Version 1, Section 4: Environmental Setting, https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/owts/docs/pre_sub_env_doc/4_envir onsetting_093011.pdf, accessed September 22, 2021.
United States Environmental Protection Agency, Section 404 of the Clean Water Act: How Wetlands are Defined and Identified, https://www.epa.gov/cwa-404/how-wetlands-are-defined-andidentified-under-cwa-section-404, accessed September 20, 2021.
Western Riverside County Regional Conservation Authority (WRCRCA), Final Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (Western Riverside County MSHCP), June 2003.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2046 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) tS ybri K
evA
t S et atS ml aP
t Stti weH
ev AnoyL
evA nots waC
s onaBs ol oni maC
evAll edO
evA nosr ednaS
dR nerr a W
evA lmaP
t S ai b m
t S ybri K
t S et atS evAnoyL evA nosr ednaS
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2047 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2048 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2049 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2050 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2051 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2052 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) tS ybri K evA t S et atS ml aP t Stti weH ev AnoyL evA nots waC s onaBs ol oni maC evAll edO ev A nosr ednaS dR nerr a W evA ml aP t S ai b m t S ybri K t S et atS ev AnoyL evA nosr ednaS ver
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2053 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040)
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2054 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.5-1 Cultural Resources
5.5 CULTURAL RESOURCES
5.5.1 PURPOSE
This section identifies existing cultural (including historic and archeological resources) resources within the Study Area, and provides an analysis of potential impacts associated with implementation of the General Plan Update. Potential impacts are identified and mitigation measures to address potentially significant impacts are recommended, as necessary.
This section is primarily based upon the Cultural and Paleontological Resource Study for the General Plan Update and EIR: City of San Jacinto, Riverside County (Cultural Study), prepared by Duke Cultural Resources Management, LLC and dated December 2021; refer to Appendix D, Cultural Resources Assessment. For impacts specific to tribal cultural resources, refer to Section 5.18, Tribal Cultural Resources. 5.5.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING
PREHISTORIC CONTEXT
Numerous chronological sequences have been devised to understand cultural changes for various areas within Southern California over the past century. The most referenced chronology for the Southern California coastal region, including western Riverside County, consists of four periods defined by material culture: Early Man, from approximately 9,000 to 8,500 years before present (BP); Milling Stone, from approximately 8,500 to 4,000 years BP; Intermediate, from approximately 4,000 to 1,500 years BP; and Late Prehistoric, from approximately 1,500 to 200 years before present. Other chronologies focus less on the material culture and more on environmental or cultural behavior.
Generally, the western Riverside region was occupied by four major complexes: PaleoIndian, San Dieguito, Encinitas (Millingstone), and Del Rey (Shoshonean or Takic). In the San Jacinto area, the earliest human occupations date to the Early Holocene, and are affiliated with the Millingstone Horizon, also known as the Encinitas Tradition.
Early Holocene
The earliest human occupation in the San Jacinto Valley has been affiliated with the San Dieguito, a broadly defined cultural complex composed of small bands of hunter-gatherers occupying large territories and living in temporary encampments. They were the first inhabitants of the Southern California region after the end of the Ice Age and inhabited the chaparral habitat in the region. They used stone tools such as scraper-planes, choppers, flake tools, and cobble tools. Few if any groundstone implements have been recovered from these sites.
There are no known San Dieguito sites in the San Jacinto Valley; however, there are a few Early Holocene sites such as the Lakeview site (CA-RIV-6069). The Lakeview site, located southeast of Lake Perris reservoir was composed of three distinct occupational components. Artifacts recovered from the lowest component include groundstone, hammerstones, discoidals, shell beads, bifaces, cores, and possible
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2055 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.5-2 Cultural Resources ceramic fragments, all dating from 9,400 to 8,900 BP. This assemblage has been affiliated with the Encinitas Tradition, the major cultural tradition of the Middle Holocene.
Middle Holocene (8,500 4,200 years BP)
The middle Holocene is a time of change and transition with population contraction across Southern California. During this period in Southern California, the climate warmed and dried, sea levels stabilized, and lake systems of the Mojave Desert and Great Basin dried up. Throughout the Middle Holocene, Mojave Desert cultures are most discernable from the use of distinctive projectile point types (Pinto, Elko, Gypsum, etc.), but all point types belonged to highly mobile hunter-gathers with wide resource catchment areas that circulate around small permanent water sources.
In Southern California, inland hunter-gatherer populations likely increased, and cultural boundaries of occupation became more solidified. Food procurement shifted to plant exploitation and gathering as groundstone tool use become more prevalent. This period is commonly known as the Millingstone Period or Encinitas cultural tradition. Groundstone implements such as milling slabs, metates, handstones (manos), and bedrock mortar features become more common after 5,000 years BP. Like other Encinitas Tradition cultures, manos and metates or milling slabs are highly prevalent, but non-utilitarian items such as shell jewelry and charmstones are rare. Resource procurement is relegated to animals and seed processing. Early studies focused on few sites from this period, but the Crowder Canyon sites (CA-SBR421A-D), Lake Elsinore site (CA-RIV- -SBR-1000) are three major study areas that formed a nucleus for Encinitas culture in the inland Southern California region.
Late Holocene (4,200 233 years BP)
The Late Holocene is a period of climatic shifts oscillating every few hundred years (e.g., Neopluvial, the Medieval Climatic Anomaly, and the Little Ice Age). Archaeologically, the Late Holocene traditionally been divided into the Intermediate Horizon (Campbell Tradition, Hunting Culture, Sayles Complex or the Pacific Period), and the Late Prehistoric period with the Canaliño, Malaga Cove, San Luis Rey, Del Rey Tradition and subdividing patterns.
A major shift occurred within the Late Holocene between 4,000 and 1,000 years BP. Takic language family speakers move into Southern California, creating the so- .
Intermediate Horizon can be thought of as a period of cultural change, especially along the Southern California coast. Greater use of mortar and pestles, bedrock mortars, and an increase in hunting are all hallmarks of this period. The adoption of new technologies such as bow-and-arrow and ceramics, and the development of plank canoes are elements that show an intensification of cultural contact. By 3,500 BP, local variations of the Encinitas Tradition in the Los Angeles basin and northern Orange County were replaced by Takic speakers. These people brought with them a new material culture assemblage called the Del Rey Tradition which was more technologically diverse with more hunting and fishing activities and arguably was also more ecologically diverse in resource procurement.
In the San Jacinto area, like other valleys of the inland Southern California, the Takic expansion occurred much later, probably around 1,000 years BP. These Takic-speakers would become the Cupan and Serrano cultures inhabiting the region well into the European colonial period. Many of the prehistoric sites in the San Jacinto Valley date from this period. Most prehistoric sites appear along the margins of the valley
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2056 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.5-3 Cultural Resources around bedrock outcrops which would have been used for milling slicks and bedrock mortars. Bedrock milling features, geomorphic pictographs, small triangular projectile points, and habitations around permanent water sources such as springs are hallmarks of the Late Holocene prehistoric sites.
ETHNOGRAPHIC OVERVIEW
The City of San Jacinto is located within the traditional territory of the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians.
Historically, the group was comprised of people from both the Luiseño and Cahuilla groups. The reservation is located along the western slopes and foothills of the San Jacinto Mountains and the Poppet and Indian Creek drainages. The reservation was established in 1883 by Executive Order, and further enlarged in 1911. The reservation today is almost 7,000 acres, and there are approximately 1,200 enrolled members. The following is a brief ethnographic summary the Luiseño and Cahuilla peoples, compiled from ethnographic and historic documents.
Luiseño
The Luiseño are Cupan speakers historically related to Mission San Luis Rey. The Luiseño spoke a dialect of the Cupan group of the Takic language family. This language was part of the larger Uto-Aztecan language stock which migrated south from the southern San Joaquin Valley or the Great Basin. The Luiseño homeland includes portions of present-day Orange, San Diego, and Riverside counties, the region south of the Aliso Creek drainage, east into the Santa Ana Mountains and the Temecula Valley, the Palomar Mountains and the San Jacinto Valley, and south along the coast to the San Luis Rey River drainage. There are six bands of Luiseño people today.
The Luiseño lived in sedentary and independent village groups, each with specific subsistence territories encompassing hunting, food gathering, and fishing areas. Villages were usually located in valley basins, along creeks and streams adjacent to mountain ranges where water was available and where the villages would be protected from environmental conditions and potential enemies. Most inland populations had access to fishing and food gathering sites on the coast. There was some indication of seasonal movement from major villages to smaller camps and hamlets.
Villages were organized around an inherited chief (nó·t) who exerted sole control over the economy, religious rituals, and territorial matters within the village. Villages consisted of partially subterranean residential structures made of brush or reeds, ramadas, partially subterranean sweat lodges, and a ceremonial structure ( ). The chief at times would consult with an assistant chief, a council of elders and shamans on matters of religious practices and on environmental conditions effecting village life. Large villages may have had a complex behavioral and political structure due to their territorial size and s limited by their territorial size.
The Luiseño, like other coastal Native American tribes, exploited a wide variety of plants and animals. The Luiseño were heavily dependent on acorns as well as other seeds and plants and a variety of large and small game inland and marine mammal, fish and shellfish along the coast. Acorns encompassed as much as 50 percent of the Luiseño diet. Acorns provided a reliable and abundant food source that was high in calories and could be easily stored for future use. Hunting activities were conducted both on an individual basis and/or organized into group activities, depending on seasonal factors and the game hunted. Tool technologies were organized around food collection, storage, and preparation strategies, which were
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2057 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.5-4 Cultural Resources reflected in the type, size, and quantity of food items gathered. Material culture included a variety of ground stone implements (manos, metates, mortar, pestles, etc.), brownware ceramics, basketry, decorative shell objects and jewelry, bone fish hooks, bone tools, and lithic tools (arrow projectile points, drills, scrapers, etc.). Luiseño traded coastal goods inland and traded coastal goods to interior tribes.
The Luiseño today occupy some areas of their ancestral homelands including the Pechanga, Pala, and Soboba Reservations. The six contemporary bands of Luiseño which are recognized by the U.S. government are the La Jolla Band of Luiseño Indians, the Pala Band of Luiseño Indians, the Pauma Band of Luiseño Indians, the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians, the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians, and the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians. A seventh group, the San Luis Rey Band of Mission Indians is not formally traditional territory includes the
City of San Jacinto.
Cahuilla
The Project is also located within the ethnographic boundaries of Cahuilla Indians, a Takic language group within the Uto-Aztecan family of languages. In their own dialect, ivia, they called themselves the Iviatim.
The word Cahuilla is likely derived from the ivia word for master, kawi'a. Their territory included the Coachella Valley as well as the San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountain ranges. It is estimated that the Cahuilla numbered between 6,000 and 10,000 people at the time of Spanish Contact. The Cahuilla lived in small villages located in canyons and alluvial fans near permanent water sources that were protected from prevailing winds in the area. The areas immediately around the village were owned in common by family lineage or moiety. Villages were composed of housing structures made of brush structures and ramadas, a ceremonial structure, a communal sweathouse, and several granaries.
Politically and ceremonially Cahuilla clans were led by a Chief or Net. The Net had charge of the sacred dance house and the sacred bundle, masut, which consisted of matting which was wrapped around items sacred to the clan such as ritual paraphernalia. Importantly, the masut was the sacred expression of each clan. A Paha, or ritual assistant, is also found among other Takic speaking groups. The office of Paha varied however, as it was not always present within some of the southern-most Desert Cahuilla clans. As other Takic speaking groups did, the Cahuilla would publicly gather for the naming of children, marriage, female and male initiation ceremonies, for the ascendency of a Net, for an Eagle-Killing Ceremony and the mourning ceremony. The mourning ceremony took place as a way to collectively mourn all those that died since the previous mourning ceremony. Each person was cremated along with his or her individual possessions in a ceremony separate from the mourning ceremony. Mourning ceremonies were one of the most important ceremonies for clan in that sacred songs were sung, sacred dances were danced, and moieties exchanged food and valued goods.
The three ethnographically documented zones of Cahuilla habitation (Pass, Mountain, and Desert) serve as general guidelines for understanding their subsistence practices. In general, Mountain and Pass Cahuilla diet emphasized acorn, yucca, agave, and pinyon gathering in the mountain and foothill regions. In contrast, Desert Cahuilla focused on the gathering of mesquite, cactus, and hard seeds such as screwbean, juniper, and mesquite. However, all Cahuilla moved to higher and lower elevations to capture various resources as the seasons permitted. Hunting of small and large animals took place in all major environmental zones. The material culture of Cahuilla is a mixture of Californian and Southwest influences.
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2058 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.5-5 Cultural Resources Cahuilla used basketry, paddle, and anvil ceramics, a variety of ground stone implements (manos, metates, mortar, pestles, etc.), a variety of ceremonial objects (charmstones, musical instruments, etc.), bone tools, and lithic tools (arrow projectile points, drills, scrapers, etc.). Trade with the California coast to the Colorado River occurred fairly regularly. Cahuilla groups traded mainly mountain resources, such as pinion seeds and yucca to lowland tribes and groups. The Cahuilla were also observed to cultivate small quantities of corn, beans, squashes, pumpkins, melons, and wheat as early as 1824 by the Romero expedition. The inhabitants of the Coachella did not practice flood recessional agriculture of the Colorado River groups. Corn would likely have been available to the Cahuilla via exchange systems between foraging groups who have access to resources outside of the Colorado River and horticulturalists along the river.
By the 1850s, oasis gardens, and to a lesser extent canyon gardens, were important sources of foodstuffs.
The Cahuilla today inhabit some of their ancestral homelands including the Aqua Caliente Reservation, the Cahuilla Reservation, the Torres-Martinez Reservation, and the Morongo Reservation. The eight bands of the Cahuilla are the Cahuilla Band of Mission Indians, the Ramona Band of Cahuilla Indians, the Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla and Cupeño Indians, the Torres-Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians, the Augustine Band of Cahuilla Indians, the Cabazon Band of Mission Indians, the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, and the Morongo Band of Mission Indians.
According to Holmes, there were seven Native American villages in the San Jacinto Valley when the Spanish arrived in the region. They are named as Ivah, Ararah, Pochea, Huachippah, Pahsitnah, Corova, and Soboba. The village of Ivah has been recorded as CA-RIV-124 and CA-RIV-408 (Gilman Hot Springs).
Holmes also relays the story of the Massacre Canyon battle between the people of Ivah and Temecula that led to the abandonment of Ivah, and states that Ivah was just outside the mouth of Massacre Canyon (CA-RIV-175). Gilman Hot Springs (CA-RIV-408) is southeast of Massacre Canyon. There is some confusion regarding the actual number of villages. Hoover et al. also name the villages of Jusispah and Pochea. Jusispah is likely the same village as Huachippah, although this cannot be confirmed at this time. The exact locations of most of these villages are unknown except for Pochea, Pahsitnah, and Soboba. According to California Historical Landmarks, Pochea was one of a cluster of villages along the ridge behind the Ramona Bowl in the City of Hemet that made up the more widely known settlement of Pahsitnah, now designated California Historical Landmark Number 104. A smallpox epidemic swept through the valley in 1862-1863, decimating the population to the point that all the villages were abandoned except Soboba. The village of Soboba (Sobova) can be observed in General Land Office maps of the region dating from 1867 and 1880.
HISTORICAL CONTEXT
The first Europeans to explore what would become the state of California belonged to the 1542 expedition of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, who sailed along and occasionally landed on the coast. Europeans are thought to have first visited portions of the interior in 1769, when Gaspar de Portola led a 62-person overland expedition from San Diego to Monterey. Two later expeditions, led by Juan Bautista de Anza in 1774 and 1775, from Sonora through southwestern Arizona and Southern California, traveled through Coyote Canyon in the Santa Rosa Mountains and came down Bautista Canyon into the San Jacinto Valley in December 1774. The expedition camped in an area called San Patricio, near the head of Bautista Canyon (Canada de San Patricio), southeast of present-day San Jacinto. De Anza called the San Jacinto Valley the San Joseph Valley; it was a heavily inundated and marshy area that took the expedition a laborious time
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2059 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.5-6 Cultural Resources to travel through. They camped along the San Jacinto River some place north of the historic downtown San Jacinto. The expedition traveled through the valley relatively quickly, noting Native American villages and camps in the hills and mountains and Lake Mystic, called by de Anza Laguna de San Antonio de Bucareli.
The Spanish government subsequently established missions and military outposts in San Diego in 1769 to facilitate colonization and to keep rival European nations out of the area. Mission San Luis Rey controlled several large ranchos or cattle ranches throughout San Diego and Riverside Counties; the Rancho of San Jacinto was one. An adobe building for ranch hands as well as religious events was built on a small hill in the middle of the San Jacinto Valley. This building was located at the present-day Casa Loma site. The adobe building burned down in 1969. After Mexico won independence from Spain in 1822, colonization efforts in Alta California decreased. The Spanish mission system was largely abandoned and the Mexican government bestowed land grants or ranchos to those loyal to the Mexican government including some Anglo settlers. The Mexican period (1822-1848) is largely identified with the ranchos acquired by individuals through the land grant system, as well as the secularization of the missions. Mission secularization began on July 25, 1826 with a decree by Governor Jose Maria Echeandia and was completed by 1836 after an additional decree in 1831. In the San Jacinto area, the mission rancho was divided into two land grants: Rancho San Jacinto Viejo (1842) and Rancho San Jacinto Nuevo y Potrero (1846).
The end of the Mexican period in California began on June 14, 1846 when a band of American settlers, supported by the American explorer John C. Fremont and his team, captured Mexican General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo in a dawn raid in Sonoma. The Americans raised a flag for the "California Republic" and their actions became known as the "Bear Flag Revolt." The so-called California Republic was short-lived however, as on July 7, 1846, U.S. Navy forces captured Monterey, California, where the U.S. flag was raised. On February 2, 1848, the war between the U.S. and Mexico ended with the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which greatly expanded U.S. territory (including California) and resulted in Mexico being paid $15 million for the land.
Although gold had been found prior to this in various parts of California, the well-publicized discovery of gold in the Sierra Nevada foothills in 1848 dramatically increased the Anglo-American settlement of California. Despite property rights of rancho owners being secured by provisions in the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, California in the early American period experienced the transfer and subdivision of many of the ranchos as well as a shift from ranching to agriculture as the primary means of subsistence.
The City of San Jacinto
The area that would become the City of San Jacinto was composed mostly of the Rancho San Jacinto Viejo, a Mexican land grant created in 1842 and granted to Jose Antonio Estudillo. The land was mainly used for cattle ranching until after the Mexican-American War and the 1948 Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. After the cessation of the California territories, the land grants were to be re-surveyed and land titles submitted in 1852 but was not patented until 1880. The Estudillo family began to sell portions of the rancho beginning in the late 1860s to Anglo-American settlers and farmers. The City of San Jacinto was founded in 1870, and incorporated in 1888, making it the second earliest municipality, after the City of Riverside, to incorporate in current-day Riverside County. In 1888, the San Jacinto spur of the Southern
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2060 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.5-7 Cultural Resources California Railroad was completed. The population of San Jacinto has grown from 661 people in 1890 to an estimated population of 51,269 in 2021 (Department of Finance 2021).
CULTURAL RESOURCES
A search of the California Historic Resources Inventory System (CHRIS) at the Eastern Information Center (EIC) located at the University of California, Riverside was conducted on December 12, 18, and 19, 2018 by Duke CRM archaeologist Dean Duryea, Jr. The records search covered the entire City of San Jacinto and SOI (Study Area). In addition, a variety of other sources were consulted, including the California State Historic Property Data File (which includes the National Register of Historic Places, California Register of Historical Resources, California Historical Landmarks, and California Points of Historical Interest), the County of Riverside , the Online Archives of California, and historic aerials and surveys.
Further, a reconnaissance field survey was conducted in order to gather baseline data on the present state of previously recorded archaeological and historic resources within the Study Area.
Results of the EIC records search indicate that there are 233 cultural resources mapped within the Study Area. These resources include 49 prehistoric archaeological sites, seven prehistoric isolates, one Tribal Cultural Resource, three multicomponent sites, 20 historic archaeological sites, one historic isolate, and 152 historic built environment resources. Table 5.5-1, Cultural Resources Recorded within the Study Area, and Table 5.5-2, Office of Historic Preservation, Historic Resource Inventory (HRI) List, list the previously recorded cultural resources within the Study Area.
Table 5.5-1
Cultural Resources Recorded within the Study Area
Primary No. Site Type Description Address
NHRP/
CRHP
Status*
P-33-000124 Multicomponent Site Village Site, Ivah N/A 7 P-33-000125 Unidentified Soboba Hot Springs N/A 7
P-33-000175 Multicomponent Site Lithic tools, lithic scatter, Spanish Lime Kilns and quarry N/A 7
P-33-000399 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Pictograph, rock carins N/A 7 P-33-000400 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Unidentified N/A 7 P-33-000402 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature, lithic scatter, ceramic scatter N/A 7
P-33-000403 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature, petroglyphs N/A 7
P-33-000404 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Unknown N/A 7 P-33-000408 Multicomponent Site Bedrock milling feature, historic hot springs pools N/A 7
P-33-000545 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature N/A 7 P-33-000546 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling features, lithic scatter, midden N/A 7
P-33-000547 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling features, lithic scatter N/A 7
P-33-000548 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature N/A 7
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2061 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.5-8 Cultural Resources Table 5.5-1 (continued)
Cultural Resources Recorded within the Study Area
Primary No. Site Type Description Address
NHRP/
CRHP
Status*
P-33-000549 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature N/A 7 P-33-000550 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling features, lithic scatter, pictographs, hearths N/A 7
P-33-000551 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature, lithic scatter N/A 7
P-33-000552 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature N/A 7 P-33-000553 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature N/A 7 P-33-000554 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature, lithic scatter, rockshelter N/A 7
P-33-000569 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature, rockshelter N/A 7
P-33-000570 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature, lithic scatter N/A 7
P-33-000571 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature, lithic scatter N/A 7
P-33-000575 Prehistoric Archaeological Site
Bedrock milling feature, lithic
scatter, ceramic scatter,
midden
N/A 7
P-33-000791 Historic Resource Single family property,
Vernacular wood frame: 1926
35750 Ramona
Expressway 7R
P-33-000806 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Rockshelter, midden N/A 7 P-33-000949 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Rockshelter, midden N/A 7 P-33-001138 Prehistoric Archaeological Site
Bedrock milling feature, lithic
scatter, pictograph "Ramona
Maze stone", hearths
7 P-33-001407 Prehistoric Isolate Mano and metate N/A 7 P-33-001739 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature, lithic scatter, ceramic scatter N/A 7
P-33-003199 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature N/A 7 P-33-003309 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature N/A 7 P-33-003310 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature N/A 7 P-33-003311 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature, lithic scatter N/A 7
P-33-003312 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature, lithic scatter N/A 7
P-33-003313 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature N/A 7 P-33-003314 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature N/A 7 P-33-003315 Prehistoric Archaeological Site
Bedrock milling feature, lithic
tools, lithic scatter, ceramic
sherd
N/A 7
P-33-003316 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature N/A 7
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2062 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.5-9 Cultural Resources Table 5.5-1 (continued)
Cultural Resources Recorded within the Study Area
Primary No. Site Type Description Address
NHRP/
CRHP
Status*
P-33-003317 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature N/A 2 P-33-003318 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature N/A 7 P-33-003319 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature N/A 7 P-33-003379 Prehistoric Isolate Olla N/A 7
P-33-003958 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature N/A 7 P-33-003970 Historic Archaeological Site Refuse deposit N/A 7 P-33-003971 Historic Archaeological Site Refuse deposit N/A 7 P-33-004202 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature N/A 7 P-33-005789 Historic Resource Hotel, Vernacular wood
frame, "Pioneer Hotel": 1886
248 East Main
Street 3S
P-33-006287 Historic Resource
Single family property,
Classical Revival style,
"Hanson Stock Farm": 1901
37613
Esplanade 7
P-33-007297 Historic Archaeological Site
Foundations, structure pads,
structural debris, formerly the
Art deco/Streamline style
"Raymar Milking Barn": 1957
40280 Bergin
Street 5S2
P-33-007301 Historic Resource
Single family property,
Craftsman Bungalow style:
1920
37255 7th
Street 7
P-33-007311 Historic Resource
1-3 story commercial
property, Vernacular style,
"The Hogan": 1936
202 East Main
Street 3S
P-33-007312 Historic Resource
1-3 story commercial
property, unidentified style,
"San Jacinto Public Library":
1946
300 East Main
Street 5S2
P-33-007318 Historic Resource Single family property,
Bungalow style: 1926
11060
Eucalyptus 7
P-33-007320 Historic Resource
Single family property,
Mediterranean/Spanish
Revival style: 1922
41400
Mockingbird
Lane
7 P-33-007321 Historic Resource
Single family property,
Vernacular wood frame style:
1890s
22523 San
Jacinto
Avenue
5S2
P-33-007335 Historic Resource
Single family property,
Vernacular wood frame style:
1926
39150 West
7th Street 5S2
P-33-007345 Historic Resource Barn: 1924 39320
Cottonwood 7N
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2063 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.5-10 Cultural Resources Table 5.5-1 (continued)
Cultural Resources Recorded within the Study Area
Primary No. Site Type Description Address
NHRP/
CRHP
Status*
P-33-007347 Historic Resource
Single family property,
Vernacular wood frame style:
1900
555 De Anza
Drive 6Y
P-33-007348 Historic Resource
Single family property,
Mediterranean/Spanish
Revival style: 1930
575 De Anza
Drive 6Y
P-33-007386 Historic Resource Single family property,
Vernacular brick style: 1900
22757 San
Jacinto
Avenue
3S
P-33-007387 Historic Resource
Single family property,
Vernacular wood frame style:
1920
22789 San
Jacinto
Avenue
5S2
P-33-007392 Historic Resource
Single family property,
Vernacular wood frame style:
1920
430 Scovell
Avenue 5S2
P-33-007393 Historic Resource
Single family property,
Vernacular wood frame style:
1915
450 Scovell
Avenue 5S2
P-33-007399 Historic Resource
Single family property,
Craftsman Bungalow style:
1910
42140
Washington
Drive
3S
P-33-007401 Historic Resource
Single family property,
Vernacular wood frame style:
1936
330 South
Wateka Street 5S2
P-33-009697 Historic Resource
California Registered
Historical Landmark, "Russian
Trans-Polar Landing Site
N/A 7
P-33-010911 Prehistoric Isolate Cobble chopper and chert flake N/A 7
P-33-011265 Historic Resource Road, "Old Aqueduct Road" N/A 7 P-33-012194 Historic Resource
Single Family Residence,
Italianate style, "Estudillo
Mansion": 1840
22700 Soboba
Road 1S
P-33-013145 Historic Archaeological Site Petroglyph N/A 7 P-33-013241 Historic Archaeological Site Concrete foundations N/A 7 P-33-013269 Prehistoric Archaeological Site
Bedrock milling features,
ceramic scatter, lithic scatter,
midden
N/A 7
P-33-013895 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling features N/A 7 P-33-013896 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling features N/A 7 P-33-013897 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling features N/A 7 P-33-014282 Historic Archaeological Site Foundations N/A 7
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2064 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.5-11 Cultural Resources Table 5.5-1 (continued)
Cultural Resources Recorded within the Study Area
Primary No. Site Type Description Address
NHRP/
CRHP
Status*
P-33-014317 Historic Resource Reservoir, "Bothin
Estate":1909 N/A 7
P-33-014318 Historic Resource Reservoir, "Bothin
estate":1907 N/A 7
P-33-014319 Historic Resource Garage, "Bothin Estate": 1908 N/A 7 P-33-014709 Historic Isolate Water conveyance system,
concrete standpipe N/A 7
P-33-014716 Prehistoric Isolate Basin metate N/A 7
P-33-014836 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling features and lithic scatter N/A 7
P-33-014888 Prehistoric Isolate Mano N/A 7
P-33-014889 Prehistoric Isolate Mano N/A 7
P-33-014964 Historic Resource Single family property,
unidentified style: 1920
375 Kirby
Street 7
P-33-014994 Historic Resource
Two single family properties,
unidentified styles: late
1950s-early 1960s
Ramona
Expressway
and
Alessandro
Avenue
7 P-33-015267 Historic Resource Single family property, Modern Ranch Style: 1954
2670 7th
Street 7
P-33-015664 Historic Archaeological Site Refuse scatter N/A 7 P-33-015735 Historic Resource
Single family property,
Craftsman style and
outbuilding: 2006
Ramona
Expressway
and Anderson
Avenue
7 P-33-015743 Historic Resource Railroad, "Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe": 1888 N/A 7
P-33-015748 Historic Resource Single family property,
unidentified style: pre 1953 N/A 7
P-33-015752 Historic Resource Road: post 1945 N/A 7
P-33-015791 Prehistoric Isolate Metate fragment N/A 7
P-33-016028 Historic Resource Single family property,
unidentified style:
975 Shaver
Street 7
P-33-016221 Historic Archaeological Site Mining pit and claim carin N/A 7 P-33-016225 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature N/A 7 P-33-016637 Historic Resource Road, "North Ramona Blvd.":
undated N/A 7
P-33-016638 Historic Archaeological Site Refuse scatter N/A 7 P-33-016639 Historic Archaeological Site Refuse scatter N/A 7 P-33-016640 Historic Archaeological Site Water conveyance system N/A 7
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2065 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.5-12 Cultural Resources Table 5.5-1 (continued)
Cultural Resources Recorded within the Study Area
Primary No. Site Type Description Address
NHRP/
CRHP
Status*
P-33-016708 Historic Archaeological Site Water conveyance system N/A 7 P-33-016958 Historic Archaeological Site Historic refuse scatter, camp site N/A 7
P-33-017050 Historic Resource
Single family property,
unidentified style, "Jose
Estudillo Mansion: 1885
275 East
Soboba Road 7
P-33-017051 Historic Resource Single family property, cinder block and wood: 1948
275 East
Soboba Road 7
P-33-017052 Historic Resource Single family property, cinder block and wood: 1948
275 East
Soboba Road 7
P-33-017053 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature N/A 7 P-33-017054 Historic Resource Outbuildings 275 East
Soboba Road 7
P-33-017055 Historic Resource Single family property, one room wood structure: 1960s
275 East
Soboba Road 7
P-33-017056 Historic Resource Water Conveyance System,
pumphouse
275 East
Soboba Road 7
P-33-017304 Historic Archaeological Site Refuse scatter N/A 7 P-33-017364 Tribal Cultural Resource Cottonwood grove N/A 7 P-33-017394 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature N/A 7 P-33-017395 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature N/A 7 P-33-017396 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature N/A 7 P-33-017414 Prehistoric Archaeological Site Bedrock milling feature N/A 7 P-33-017928 Historic Resource Single Family Property, Ranch style: 1947 N/A 6Z
P-33-018035 Historic Archaeological Site Foundations, water conveyance system
N/A 7
P-33-019840 Historic Resource
14 single family properties,
Vernacular Bungalow style,
work sheds, "Kuhns Housing
Compound": 1950s
7 P-33-019841 Historic Archaeological Site Refuse deposit, Francisco Estudillo's Adobe Site N/A 7
P-33-020418 Historic Archaeological Site Foundations N/A 7 P-33-024106 Historic Archaeological Site Refuse deposit, foundations N/A 7 P-33-024874 Historic Archaeological Site Water conveyance system, foundations N/A 7
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2066 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.5-13 Cultural Resources Table 5.5-1 (continued)
Cultural Resources Recorded within the Study Area
Primary No. Site Type Description Address
NHRP/
CRHP
Status*
P-33-028069 Historic Archaeological Site Water conveyance system, foundations N/A 7
P-33-028070 Historic Resource
Social club, unidentified style,
"Valley trap club": Unknown
age
N/A 7
Source: Duke Cultural Resources Management 2021.
*NHRP/CRHP Key
1CL Automatically listed in the California Register Includes State Historical Landmarks 770 and above and Points of Historical Interest nominated after December 1997 and recommended for listing by the SHRC. 1S Individual property listed in NR by the Keeper. Listed in the CR 3S Appears eligible for NR as an individual property through survey evaluation 4CM Appears eligible for the National Register or the California Register through other evaluation; Master List State Owned Properties PRC §5054
5S2 Individual property that is eligible for local listing or designation 6X Determined ineligible for the NR by SHRC or Keeper.
6Y Determined ineligible for NR by consensus through Section 106 process 7 Not evaluated for CR or local listing
7K Resubmitted to OHP for action but not reevaluated
7N Needs to be reevaluated
7R Identified in Reconnaissance Level Survey: Not Evaluated Notes: The listing identifies previously recorded cultural resources; however, additional reconnaissance determined some sites remained, but others could not be located due to development, or confirmed due to overgrown vegetation or were located on private property.
Table 5.5-2
Office of Historic Preservation, Historic Resource Inventory (HRI) List HRI Site Type Description Address NHRP/CRHP
Status*
62504 Historic Resource HRI Listing 37255 7th Street 5S2 62548 Historic Resource HRI Listing 40390 Artesia Street 5S2 62549 Historic Resource HRI Listing 21950 Chase Street 3S 62550 Historic Resource HRI Listing 41730 Commonwealth Avenue 7R 62551 Historic Resource HRI Listing 39320 Cottonwood Avenue 7N 150646 Historic Resource HRI Listing 111 De Anza Drive 6Y 62501 Historic Resource HRI Listing 200 De Anza Drive 5S2 62502 Historic Resource HRI Listing 220 De Anza Drive 3S 62552 Historic Resource HRI Listing 488 De Anza Drive 5S2 62555 Historic Resource HRI Listing 790 De Anza Drive 5S2 62556 Historic Resource HRI Listing 868 De Anza Drive 3S 62557 Historic Resource HRI Listing 38460 De Anza Drive 5S2 62558 Historic Resource HRI Listing 38691 De Anza Drive 5S2 62540 Historic Resource HRI Listing 344 E 7th Street 5S2 69033 Historic Resource HRI Listing 152 East Main Street 7K
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2067 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.5-14 Cultural Resources Table 5.5-2 (continued)
Office of Historic Preservation, Historic Resource Inventory (HRI) List HRI Site Type Description Address NHRP/CRHP
Status*
69032 Historic Resource HRI Listing 163 East Main Street 7K 62516 Historic Resource HRI Listing 300 East Main Street 5S2 62571 Historic Resource HRI Listing 340 East Main Street 3S 62572 Historic Resource HRI Listing 380 East Main Street 7N 62505 Historic Resource HRI Listing 24340 Hewitt Street 5S2 62509 Historic Resource HRI Listing 23177 Kirby Street 3S 62564 Historic Resource HRI Listing 23290 Kirby Street 5S2 62510 Historic Resource HRI Listing 23453 Kirby Street 5S2 62511 Historic Resource HRI Listing 23885 Kirby Street 5S2 62565 Historic Resource HRI Listing 24395 Kirby Street 3S 62512 Historic Resource HRI Listing 22051 Lyon Avenue 3S 62566 Historic Resource HRI Listing 22881 Lyon Avenue 5S2 62513 Historic Resource HRI Listing 23505 Lyon Avenue 5S2 62567 Historic Resource HRI Listing 23675 Lyon Avenue 5S2 62568 Historic Resource HRI Listing 23851 Lyon Avenue 5S2 62569 Historic Resource HRI Listing 24031 Lyon Avenue 5S2 62570 Historic Resource HRI Listing 24301 Lyon Avenue 3S 62521 Historic Resource HRI Listing 42221 Mountain Avenue 7N 62543 Historic Resource HRI Listing 165 North Alessandro Street 3S 62544 Historic Resource HRI Listing 22607 North Alessandro Street 7R 62545 Historic Resource HRI Listing 145 North Algona Avenue 5S2 62546 Historic Resource HRI Listing 154 North Algona Avenue 7R 62547 Historic Resource HRI Listing 180 North Algona Avenue 3S 166181 Historic Resource HRI Listing 105 North De Anza 6Y 62609 Historic Resource HRI Listing 163 North Jordan Avenue 7N 62610 Historic Resource HRI Listing 187 North Jordon Avenue 5S2 62611 Historic Resource HRI Listing 333 North Ramona Blvd 7K, 3S 62522 Historic Resource HRI Listing 991 North Ramona Blvd 5S2 62523 Historic Resource HRI Listing 1015 North Ramona Blvd 7R 62524 Historic Resource HRI Listing 1073 North Ramona Blvd 5S2 62508 Historic Resource HRI Listing 1047 North SR 79 5S2 62606 Historic Resource HRI Listing 305 North Wateka Street 5S2 62589 Historic Resource HRI Listing 21450 Potter Road 5S2 62526 Historic Resource HRI Listing 35750 Ramona Expressway 7R 62525 Historic Resource HRI Listing 35750 Ramona Expressway 7N 62590 Historic Resource HRI Listing Record Road 5S2
62591 Historic Resource HRI Listing 39200 Record Road 5S2 166177 Historic Resource HRI Listing 681 Rosario Avenue 6Y 62608 Historic Resource HRI Listing 215 South Alessandro Street 7N 131368 Historic Resource HRI Listing 150 South Dillon Avenue 6X. 125366 Historic Resource HRI Listing 150 South Dillon Avenue 1S 166180 Historic Resource HRI Listing 770 South Hewitt Street 6Y 62542 Historic Resource HRI Listing 138 South Jordan Avenue 3S 177402 Historic Resource HRI Listing 681 South Rosario Avenue 6Y
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2068 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.5-15 Cultural Resources Table 5.5-2 (continued)
Office of Historic Preservation, Historic Resource Inventory (HRI) List HRI Site Type Description Address NHRP/CRHP
Status*
62615 Historic Resource HRI Listing 132 South San Jacinto Avenue 7N 107159 Historic Resource HRI Listing 132 South San Jacinto Avenue 4CM 152629 Historic Resource HRI Listing 674 South San Marcos Place 6Y 152630 Historic Resource HRI Listing 686 South San Marcos Place 6Y 62529 Historic Resource HRI Listing 630 South Santa Fe Street 3S 62603 Historic Resource HRI Listing 176 South Victoria Avenue 5S2 62607 Historic Resource HRI Listing 330 South Wateka Street 582 62594 Historic Resource HRI Listing 22805 San Jacinto Avenue 582 62595 Historic Resource HRI Listing 22815 San Jacinto Avenue 582 62528 Historic Resource HRI Listing 22148 Sanderson Avenue 7R 62596 Historic Resource HRI Listing 289 Santa Fe Street 582 62597 Historic Resource HRI Listing 560 Santa Fe Street 582 62530 Historic Resource HRI Listing Soboba Road 38
62600 Historic Resource HRI Listing Soboba Road 7N
62531 Historic Resource HRI Listing 22700 Soboba Road 38 62532 Historic Resource HRI Listing 22770 Soboba Road 38 62533 Historic Resource HRI Listing 22850 Soboba Road 582 62614 Historic Resource HRI Listing SR 74 7R
62506 Historic Resource HRI Listing SR 74 7N
62507 Historic Resource HRI Listing 20871 SR 79 7R
62601 Historic Resource HRI Listing 136 Victoria Avenue 5S2 62602 Historic Resource HRI Listing 155 Victoria Avenue 552 62604 Historic Resource HRI Listing 212 Victoria Avenue 35 180311 Historic Resource HRI Listing 151 West 2nd Street 6Y 62612 Historic Resource HRI Listing 166 West 2nd Street 552 62534 Historic Resource HRI Listing 486 West 2nd Street 552 62535 Historic Resource HRI Listing 320 West 3rd Street 7N 62503 Historic Resource HRI Listing 165 West 5th Street 7N 62536 Historic Resource HRI Listing 288 West 5th Street 35 62537 Historic Resource HRI Listing 406 West 5th Street 552 62538 Historic Resource HRI Listing 151 West 6th Street 552 62539 Historic Resource HRI Listing 230 West 6th Street 35 62541 Historic Resource HRI Listing 39150 West 7th Street 552 62576 Historic Resource HRI Listing 250 West Main 552
62577 Historic Resource HRI Listing 268 West Main 552
62518 Historic Resource HRI Listing 294 West Main 35
62519 Historic Resource HRI Listing 301 West Main 35
62578 Historic Resource HRI Listing 306 West Main 552
62579 Historic Resource HRI Listing 342 West Main 552
62580 Historic Resource HRI Listing 376 West Main 552
62581 Historic Resource HRI Listing 390 West Main 552
62582 Historic Resource HRI Listing 402 West Main 552
62583 Historic Resource HRI Listing 414 West Main 552
62584 Historic Resource HRI Listing 420 West Main 552
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2069 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.5-16 Cultural Resources Table 5.5-2 (continued)
Office of Historic Preservation, Historic Resource Inventory (HRI) List HRI Site Type Description Address NHRP/CRHP
Status*
62585 Historic Resource HRI Listing 435 West Main 552
62520 Historic Resource HRI Listing 485 West Main 552
62586 Historic Resource HRI Listing 531 West Main 552
62587 Historic Resource HRI Listing 616 West Main 552
167459 Historic Resource HRI Listing 658 West Main 6Y
62588 Historic Resource HRI Listing 683 West Main 552
BR 56-178 Historic Resource Bridge SR 74 6
BR 56-179 Historic Resource Bridge SR 74 6
Source: Duke Cultural Resources Management 2021.
*NHRP/CRHP Key
1CL Automatically listed in the California Register Includes State Historical Landmarks 770 and above and Points of Historical Interest nominated after December 1997 and recommended for listing by the SHRC. 1S Individual property listed in NR by the Keeper. Listed in the CR 3S Appears eligible for NR as an individual property through survey evaluation 4CM Appears eligible for the National Register or the California Register through other evaluation; Master List State Owned Properties PRC §5054
5S2 Individual property that is eligible for local listing or designation 6X Determined ineligible for the NR by SHRC or Keeper.
6Y Determined ineligible for NR by consensus through Section 106 process 7 Not evaluated for CR or local listing
7K Resubmitted to OHP for action but not reevaluated
7N Needs to be reevaluated
7R Identified in Reconnaissance Level Survey: Not Evaluated Prehistoric Archeological Resources
There are 49 previously recorded prehistoric archaeological sites resources, seven prehistoric isolates, and three multicomponent sites within the Study Area. Most prehistoric archaeological sites are located along the east side of the Lakeview Mountains. The majority of these sites are bedrock milling features, exploiting the plethora of granite outcrops for milling along the margins of the San Jacinto Valley. Other major prehistoric sites are located around permanent water sources located at Soboba Hot Springs, Gilman Hot Springs, and an unnamed spring on the west side of the Lakeview Mountains. Two sites are possible locations of recorded proto-historic villages: CA-RIV 124 and CA-RIV-408. Site CA-RIV-175 is the site of Massacre Canyon, the location of the massacre of Cahuilla residents of the village of Ivah by the Luiseño from the Temecula area. Site CA-RIV 124 was recorded as both the prehistoric Village of Ivah and the Village of Jusispah; however, neither village location has been confirmed by archaeological investigation. Subsurface archeological testing would be necessary to either confirm or disprove the existence of the village at the recorded location.
Historic Archaeological Resources
There are 20 historic archaeological sites and one historic isolates previously recorded within the Study Area. Most of the resources are related to agricultural features such as foundations for barns and dairies or water conveyance systems such as reservoirs and pumps, as well as historic refuse scatters. Site P-33-
4.1.i
Packet Pg. 2070 Attachment: Draft Environmental Impact Report (Envision San Jacinto - General Plan 2040) Envision San Jacinto General Plan 2040
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Public Review Draft | July 2022 5.5-17 Cultural Resources 9697 is the location of the landing of the Soviet Trans-Polar expedition. It is on the CRHS and a Point of Historic Interest. There is no marker at this location; rather the marker is located in Hoffman Park.
Two built environment resources that are of interest to the area are the San Jacinto Valley Railway (P-33- 015743, CA-RIV-8196H) and the Colorado River Aqueduct (P-33-11265, CA-RIV-6726H). Additionally, the Estudillo Mansion and Ranch (P-33-17050-17056) was built near the Soboba Hot Springs in 1885.
Historic Resources
Early Settlement and Townsite Development, 1868-1905
San Jacinto contains relatively few late-19th century properties and more early-20th century properties.
In general, brick structures like commercial blocks, businesses, schoolhouses, and residences were either rebuilt or perished after the earthquakes of 1899 and 1918, and brick was not used in construction after 1918. Property types associated with this period of development include residential properties such as the brick Estudillo Mansion, Dunham House, Kammeyer House, Shaver House/Hyacinth Inn, Scherman House, and others; residential/commercial properties, including hotels, boarding houses, or residential properties that offered room and board like the former Pioneer (Lockwood) Hotel, Vosburg (Farmer) Hotel, and St. Hyacinth Inn; railroad-, agricultural-, or industrial-related buildings, structures, and objects such as the original railroad alignment at the Agri-Empire packinghouse, lumber-related properties, and limestone quarry and kiln structures; streetscape features such as water fountains, streetlights, street trees, hitching posts, rockwork, and granite curbing; or the Five-Points intersection/alignment itself; property remnants such as walls, foundations, wells, and tree rows; and properties associated with founding fathers, early pioneers, or those related to town development and promotion, water development, and tourism such as Gilman Hot Springs, and the San Jacinto Valley Cemetery. Architectural Styles of this period may include an array of Victorian era styles from high style Queen Anne to modest Folk Victorian; Victorian cottages, transitional one- and one-and-a-half story cottages, and early Arts and Crafts/Craftsman bungalows, Western False Front, and Two- and Three-part Commercial Block, although it is uncertain if any intact brick commercial buildings remain in the downtown core.