CITY OF
SIGNAL HILL
2021 GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
Prepared by
Community Development Department
April 1, 2022
Attachment A
1 LAND USE ELEMENT
The Land Use Element was adopted in 2001. It contains four goals and 63 Implementation Programs. The significant projects and their status are described below:
Projects Completed:
• Civic Center Neighborhood:
o 1367, 1369, 1371, 1373, 1393, 1395, 1397, and 1399 E. 23rd Street (Summerland Residential Development) – Phase I (front eight homes). • West Side Neighborhood:
o 2383.5 Cerritos Avenue – Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU). o 2327 Orange Avenue – Cabe Toyota auto detailing center. • Central Neighborhood
o 2300 E. Spring Street - Second phase remodel to north-west parking area of Mercedes Benz automotive dealership and modification of freewayoriented sign. • Atlantic Spring Neighborhood:
o 999 E. Willow Street - Remodel of building for medical offices.
Projects Under Construction:
• Civic Center Neighborhood:
o 1600 E. Hill Street – American University of Health Sciences School of Pharmacy tenant improvements.
• Southeast Neighborhood:
o 1995 St. Louis Avenue – Custom two-story single-family dwelling (SFD).
Approved Projects:
• Civic Center Neighborhood:
• 2020 Walnut Avenue (Signal Hill Business Park) – a 150,000 square-foot industrial park consisting of nine buildings on both sides of Walnut Avenue. • North End Neighborhood:
o 950 E. 33rd Street and 3177 California Avenue (Gateway Center North) – Remodel of Target exterior, addition of new commercial retail buildings, a drive-thru restaurant, and self-storage facility and lot line adjustment. • Central Neighborhood:
o 1800 E. Spring Street – Conformity Report for Administration Site Plan and Design Review (SPDR) 21-02 and request to amend the existing sign program to accommodate a Tesla Service & Sales facility at the former Nissan site.
Projects Under Review:
• Civic Center Neighborhood:
o 2550 Orange Avenue – 100,866 square-foot warehouse and office with 17 dock doors.
• Southeast Neighborhood:
o 1939 Temple Avenue (Courtyard Residential Development) – 8 condominium units.
2 o 2599 Pacific Coast Highway – 7 condominium units.
• 1900 Temple Avenue – One-story 2,365 square-foot SFD with attached two-car garage and a detached two-car garage with an ADU.
Goal 1: Manage growth to achieve a well-balanced land use pattern that accommodates existing and future needs for housing, commercial and industrial land, open space, and community facilities and services, while maintaining a healthy, diversified economy adequate to provide future City revenues.
Policy 1.1: Encourage and manage growth to accommodate year 2021 moderate growth population, household, and employment projections.
• On February 9, 2021, the City Council approved a Professional Services Agreement between the City and Keyser Marston Associates, Inc., to complete the Housing Authority’s Annual Senate Bill 341 (SB 341) reporting for the Low- and Moderate-Income Housing Asset Fund (Implementation Programs #27, and #28). • On May 18, 2021, Staff provided the Planning Commission with a summary of California state’s mandate to meet the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) allocation for the 6th Cycle Housing Element (Implementation Program #28).
• On May 18, 2021, the Planning Commission held a public workshop and environmental scoping meeting regarding the 6th Cycle Housing Element Update (HEU).
• On May 25, 2021, the City Council approved the second reading and adoption of a Zoning Ordinance Amendment (ZOA) 21-01 to change an approximate 13.63- acre site located at 950 E. 33rd Street and 3177 California Avenue, from “Commercial General” and “Freeway Self-Storage Specific Plan” designations to “SP-12 Gateway Center North Specific Plan” and establishing development standards for a commercial center to be called “Gateway Center North” (Implementation Program #8, and #21).
• On August 17, 2021, the Planning Commission held a second public workshop to provide a status update on the City of Signal Hill’s progress on the completion of the 6th Cycle HEU.
• On September 21, 2021, the Planning Commission held a third public workshop to provide an update on development of the 6th Cycle HEU and associated environmental document (Implementation Programs #28 and #57). Workshop topics included:
o A strategy to meet the Regional Housing Needs Assessment Allocation; o The status of public outreach efforts;
o Ongoing analysis of potential housing sites;
o Conceptual site plans and illustrations for potential housing development; o A proposed schedule for adoption of the 6th Cycle Housing Element; and 3 o An overview of public input to date.
• On September 14, 2021, the City Council approved a Professional Services Agreement for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) Administration with Michael Baker International, Inc. for a term of two years with three optional one-year extensions (Implementation Program #62).
• On November 9, 2021, the City Council held a public hearing regarding the proposed development of Signal Hill Business Park at 2020 Walnut Avenue. The project consists of nine one-story concrete tilt-up buildings ranging in height from 30 feet, 6 inches to 34 feet and totaling 151,075 square feet (SF), 184 surfacelevel parking spaces, 77,527 SF of landscaping, and underground utility services improvements. Because of the site’s historical use as an oil refinery, the project also includes installation of a soil vapor extraction system, required by the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board for ongoing soils remediation. The City Council took the following actions (Implementation Program #34, #36, and #42):
o Adoption of a second Recirculated Mitigated Negative Declaration (SCH 2020029097);
o Adoption of General Plan Amendment 21-01, amending the General Plan Land Use Element Generalized Land Use Map to amend the general plan land use element and the generalized land use map to reclassify an approximate 2.56-acre portion of an 8.69-acre site at 2040 Walnut Avenue from “3.3 commercial office” to “4.1 light industrial”; o Adoption of Zoning Ordinance Amendment 21-02 to amend the Official Zoning Map to change an approximate 2.56-acre portion of an 8.69-acre site at 2040 Walnut Avenue from Commercial Office (CO) to Light Industrial (LI); and
o Adoption of Resolution No. 2021-11-6646 finding the proposed street vacation of a 14,349 SF section of E. 21st Street located between Walnut Avenue and Gundry Avenue in conformance with the General Plan. • The Department of Finance provided a 2021 population estimate for Signal Hill which was 11,617, a 78 person decrease from the 2020 estimate of 11,695 (Implementation Program #59).
• The City Council adopted a Resolution ordering the levy of assessments within Landscape and Lighting Maintenance District No. 1 for Fiscal Year 2020-21 to pay for the maintenance of common landscaped areas within the California Crown tract (Implementation Program #45).
• The State Department of Housing and Community Development established housing related grants generated by the Building Homes and Jobs Act (SB2) and other funding mechanisms to facilitate the production of housing. The City of Signal Hill was awarded $160,000 in SB2 grant funding, $65,482 for Year One of the 4 PLHA grant, and $65,000 of LEAP grant funding. In addition, Los Angeles County established an Innovation Grant fund for participating cities based on their state housing funding and the City was awarded $200,000 (Implementation Program #62).
Policy 1.2: Provide opportunities for a variety of residential densities and housing styles. • On January 19, 2021, the Planning Commission held a public workshop to review plans to construct a two-story duplex on a vacant site at 2250 Ohio Avenue in Planning Area 2 of the Hilltop Area Specific Plan (SP-2) zoning district (Implementation Program #27).
• On February 16, 2021, Staff provided the Planning Commission an update on the preparation of the 6th Cycle HEU and the Southern California News Group’s annual housing production report card (Implementation Program #27). • On June 15, 2021, the Planning Commission approved Resolution No. 845-06-15 amending the Site Plan & Design Review (SPDR) 21-02, to permit the demolition of an existing one-car garage and construct a new first-and-second-floor addition to an existing one-story, single-family dwelling at 2056 Dawson Avenue (Implementation Program #24, and #34).
• On June 22, 2021, City Council approved Resolution No. 2021-06-6627, approving Year Two of participation in the Los Angeles Urban County PLHA grant program (Implementation Program #62).
• On November 16, 2021, the Planning Commission held a public workshop regarding SPDR 21-08 for a new 2,343 SF one-story single-family dwelling with attached and detached garages and an ADU to be located at 1900 Temple Avenue (Implementation Program #34).
• On October 26, 2021, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2021-10-6643 declaring that pursuant to Government Code sections 54220-54234, former property owned by the Signal Hill Redevelopment Agency and City is non-exempt surplus land and authorizing the City Manager to comply with the Surplus Land Act by offering it to affordable housing developers (Implementation Program #60).
Policy 1.3: Support the maintenance of residential areas and encourage in-fill of vacant lots close to transportation, municipal facilities, and shopping opportunities. • The City Council adopted a Resolution ordering the levy of assessments within Landscape and Lighting Maintenance District No. 1 for Fiscal Year 2020-21 to pay for the maintenance of common landscaped areas within the California Crown tract (Implementation Program #45).
• On May 25, 2021, the City Council approved the second reading and adoption of ZOA 21-01 to change an approximate 13.63-acre site located at 950 E. 33rd Street and 3177 California Avenue, from “Commercial General” and “Freeway Self5 Storage Specific Plan” designations to “SP-12 Gateway Center North Specific Plan” and establishing development standards for a commercial center to be called “Gateway Center North” (Implementation Program #8, and #21). • See Policy 1.2 above for residential projects.
Policy 1.4: Provide for density bonuses, which exceed maximum densities specified in the land use plan and classification system, for development projects for low- and verylow income or “special” need households in low, medium, and high-density land use classification.
Policy 1.5: The distribution and density of land used shall be consistent with the land use map and descriptions for each of the land use categories in Section VI of the Land Use Element.
• See Policy 1.3 for Gateway Center North.
• See Policies 1.1 and 1.2 above for residential projects and 1.7 below for commercial projects.
Policy 1.6: Ensure an adequate supply of commercial and industrial land for potential commercial and industrial expansion and development.
• On March 16, 2021, the Planning Commission held a public workshop and subsequently a public hearing on April 20, 2021, for the establishment of the Gateway Center North commercial center. The project included a remodel of a 135,811 SF Target; a new 5,000 SF fast food pad; 18,500 SF of new retail/service space; and a 177,345 SF self-storage facility. The Planning Commission recommended City Council adoption of ZOA 21-01 to amend “Commercial General” and “Freeway Self-Storage Specific Plan” designations to “SP-12, Gateway Center North Specific Plan” and establishing development standards for a commercial center. The Planning Commission also took the following actions:
o Approval of SPDR application for exterior Target remodel and signage (21- 03);
o Approval of SPDR application for self-storage facility (21-04); o Recommend City Council approval of CUP 21-01 to allow alcohol sales for off-site consumption at Target;
o Recommend City Council approval of CUP 21-02 to allow for the operation of a self-storage facility in the Gateway Center North Specific Plan (SP-12) Zoning District;
o Recommend City Council approval of a Development Agreement between the City of Signal Hill and Signal Fields North, LLC; and o Recommend City Council approval of a Mitigated Negative Declaration (SCH 2021030665) and Mitigation, Monitoring, and Reporting program.
The City Council held a public hearing on May 11, 2021, which included an introduction of Ordinance No. 2021-05-1519 for approval of ZOA 21-01, establishing the Gateway Center North Specific Plan and Ordinance No. 2021-05- 1520 for approval of the Development Agreement. The City Council approved 6 CUPs 21-01 and 21-02, and the Mitigated Negative Declaration. On May 25, 2021, a second reading was held and the City Council approved Ordinance No. 2021- 05-1519 and Ordinance No. 2021-005-1520 (Implementation Program #31, #34, and #61).
• On January 12, 2021, the City Council approved the second reading of Ordinance No. 2020-12-1516 adopting ZOA 20-01 to conditionally permit full-service kitchens and food service in alcoholic beverage manufacturing facilities with tasting rooms in the Commercial Industrial (CI), Light Industrial (LI), and General Industrial (GI) zoning districts (Implementation Program #41).
• On July 20, 2021, the Planning Commission held a public hearing to consider a two-year extension of CUP 97-03 for seven consolidated drill sites owned and operated by Signal Hill Petroleum. The CUP allows oil and gas production at the seven sites, as well as storage, processing, and transport of products. SHP has agreed to a two-year extension until July 30, 2023, to allow them to continue their oil production activities uninterrupted, while preparations for a long-term extension continue. The Planning Commission recommended approval of CUP 97-03 to the City Council. On August 10, 2021, the City Council approved the two-year extension of CUP 97-03 (Implementation Program #37 and #42). • On June 22, 2021, the City Council approved a Right-of-Entry Permit for Signal Hill Petroleum, LLC, for one-year. The permit allows for ingress and egress to the former Majestic golf site at 2550 Orange Avenue for pre-development activities (Implementation Program #31 and #34).
• The City utilized Proposition A revenues for the following transportation programs:
o Dial-A-Lift;
o Fixed route bus services; and
o Dial-A-Taxi services (Implementation Program #60).
• See Policy 1.1 above for the Signal Hill Business Park at 2020 Walnut Avenue.
Policy 1.7: Broaden the City’s tax base by attracting commercial and industrial development to the City which will provide economic and employment benefits to the community while ensuring compatibility with other general plan goals and policies. • On April 20, 2022, the Planning Commission approved a Conformity Report for Administrative SPDR 21-02 – A Request to Amend the Existing Sign Program to Accommodate a Tesla Service and Sales Facility at the Former Nissan Site at 1800 E. Spring Street. The proposed Tesla signage is less in overall quantity and size in comparison to the previous, existing Nissan signage (Implementation Program #34).
• See Policy 1.6 regarding Development Agreement for Gateway Center North. 7 • On June 15, 2021, the Planning Commission approved a Conformity Report for minor modifications to the approved Freeway-Oriented Sign at Mercedes-Benz of Long Beach Auto Dealership. Minor modifications consist of minor changes to upgrade the digital display panel on the sign. The changes will increase its visibility to people traveling on I-405 (Implementation Program #34). • On July 27, 2021, Harris & Associates presented its Fiscal and Economic Analysis of different types of cannabis businesses to the City Council (Implementation Program #41).
• The City completed annual inspections of institutional permits for compliance with conditions of approval and property maintenance for the following businesses (Implementation Program #36):
o Cole Vocational Services - 2798 Junipero Avenue;
o Courtyard Care Center - 1880 Dawson Ave;
o Dungarvin Adult Day Care - 695 E. 27th Street;
o Las Brisas Child Care Center - 2399 California Avenue, Suite A; and o Unlimited Quest & California Mentor - 3350 N. Olive Avenue.
Policy 1.8: Focus major commercial activity into economically viable and attractive centers. Concentrate retail, office, and complimentary uses in or near the City’s Town Center. Support the Spring Street Corridor as a secondary commercial location.
Policy 1.9: Provide incentives to encourage lot consolidations and large parcel land assemblage to provide expanded opportunities for coordinated development and redevelopment.
• See Policy 1.4 above regarding Master Development Planning (Implementation Program #22).
• Certificates of Occupancy were issued for Phase I (first eight homes) of the Summerland Residential Development located at 1375 E. 23rd Street. Construction began on Phase II (remaining eight homes). The development has a total of 16 detached SFDs (Implementation Programs #34).
Policy 1.10: Discourage the expansion of industries, which by their nature produce noise, odors, dust, traffic, and air pollution, which pose a threat to human health or the environment.
• Implementation of the City’s Oil and Gas Code continued as follows (Implementation Programs #37 and #42):
o The City continued to implement the procedures for development over or near abandoned wells, including well discovery and surveying, leak testing and venting, well abandonment reports, methane site assessment, well abandonment, and site restoration.
o 4 leak test permits: At 2550 Orange Avenue, 16 wells were re-tested due to expiration of the initial 2019 leak tests (two permits issued); 1 well at 2750 E. 20th Street; and 1 well at 1900 Temple Avenue.
o 3 methane site assessments were conducted at:
8 ▪ Orange Avenue at E. 28th Street
▪ Walnut Avenue and E. Willow Street
▪ 1901 Freeman Avenue
o 1 well abandonment permit was issued for 3177 California Avenue.
Policy 1.11: Encourage a wide range of responsive and accessible public facilities and community services, including fire and police protection, library and educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities, and other municipal services. • On April 27, 2021, City Council recognized May 2021 as Building Safety Month.
The theme for the year was Prevent, Prepare, Protect. Due to on-going COVID restrictions, no activities or events took place (Implementation Program #36). • On July 27, the Accounting Manager presented the MyCivic Utilities App and the introduced the MyCivic Engagement App, which will be released soon (Implementation Program #58).
• On August 10, 2021, the City Council approved the second reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 2021-07-1525 amending Signal Hill Municipal Code (SHMC) section 13.04.130 for a low-income water discount (Implementation Program #62). • On September 22, 2021, the City Council authorized a Contract Services Agreement between the City and True North Research, Inc., to conduct a community survey and gather opinions around a variety of subjects, including city services and programs. The survey will also address issues related to diversity, equity and inclusion, quality of life, representation, access, and belonging (Implementation Program #57).
• The City Council authorized a Contract Services Agreement between the City and Miller Children’s and Women’s Hospital, to continue providing supplemental funding, in an amount not to exceed $5,000, for health and hospitalization care to uninsured and underinsured children of low-income Signal Hill families (Implementation Program #60).
• On January 26, 2021, the City Council approved the Los Angeles Urban County CDBG Program’s annual allocation to Signal Hill of $109,325 (Implementation Program #62).
• On January 26, 2021, the City Council amended the approved projects for the CDBG program to expand the food distribution program and additional CDBG funding made available through the Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES) in the amount of $24,000. (Implementation Programs #44 and #62).
Policy 1.12: Increase the amount and improve the network of public and private open space areas for active or passive recreation.
9 • On August 17, 2021, the Community Services Director presented an update to the Planning Commission on the Park Implementation Plan (Implementation Program #10 and #22).
Policy 1.13: Encourage landowners to contribute land and facilities to the City, which add to its beauty, convenience, amenities, and cultural enrichment. • The City entered into a Development Agreement with Signal Fields North, LLC regarding the development of its property at 3177 California Avenue for a selfstorage facility. The Agreement requires that the owner pay a $250,000 one-time public benefit fee and an on-going public benefit fee. The public benefit fee is one dollar ($1.00) per leased space per month for the self-storage and recreational vehicle and boat storage uses.
• The City acquired 1925 E. 21st Street for the expansion of Signal Hill Park (Implementation Program #10 and #22).
Goal 2: Ensure that new development is consistent with the City’s circulation system, availability of public facilities, existing development constraints, and the City’s unique characteristics and natural resources.
Policy 2.1: Coordinate and monitor the intensity and impact of land uses in Signal Hill and Long Beach on the City’s existing transportation and circulation systems so that they can provide for the efficient movement of people and goods with the least interference. • On March 23, 2021, the City Council authorized Amendment No. 2 to the Contract Services Agreement with Michael Baker International to provide additional environmental services for Signal Hill Business Park at 2020 Walnut Avenue (Implementation Program #34).
Policy 2.2: Preserve the integrity of the hillside areas through low-density development, regulating the maximum intensity of development through a specific plan review process.
Policy 2.3: Protect scenic vistas from public areas with special attention given to vistas adjacent to Panorama Drive, south of Skyline Drive and west of Stanley Avenue. • A code enforcement case was initiated for illegal planting of new trees on Skyline Drive behind the homes of 2124, 2120, 2114, and 2100 Ocean View Drive. These trees would eventually block views (Implementation Program #33).
Policy 2.4: Regulate development in identifiable hazardous areas as shown on the Special Management Areas Map or in areas that are environmentally sensitive. • The City continues to implement the Oil and Gas Code. o See Policy 1.10 above for Methane Site Assessment, Leak Test, and well abandonment permits issued in 2021 (Implementation Program #42). • See Policy 1.6 for Signal Hill Petroleum CUP.
10 Policy 2.5: Ensure an orderly extension of essential services and facilities and preservation of a free-flowing circulation system, by requiring the provision of essential services and facilities at the developer’s cost where these systems do not exist or are not already part of the City’s financed annual Capital Improvement Program. • On June 22, 2021, the City Council adopted a Resolution ordering the levy of assessments within Landscape and Lighting Maintenance District No. 1 for Fiscal Year 2021-22 to pay for the maintenance of common landscaped areas within the California Crown tract (Implementation Program #45).
• The City continued to require that utilities be undergrounded for new development (Implementation Program #14).
Policy 2.6: Encourage the development of oil field areas through the removal or relocation of wells and pipelines, or with site plan designs that encourage the joint use of land for oil production and other urban uses while maintaining essential access to petroleum resources.
• The City continued regular maintenance and landscaping inspections at individual well sites outside the drill sites (Implementation Program #37). • See Policy 1.10 above regarding Oil and Gas Code implementation (Implementation Program #42).
• See Policy 1.6 above regarding the two-year CUP extension (Implementation Program #37).
Goal 3: Assure a safe, healthy, and aesthetically pleasing community for residents and businesses.
Policy 3.1: Mitigate traffic congestion and unacceptable levels of noise, odors, dust, and glare which affect residential areas and sensitive receptors. • On February 8, 2022, the City Council completed its 2021 annual review of 54 properties with CUPs and found them to be in substantial compliance with their approved conditions (Implementation Program #36).
• The City closed 43 code enforcement cases in 2021 (Implementation Programs #2 and #36).
Policy 3.2: Enhance the interference between existing and future development and oil production activities to protect the access to the resource while mitigating adverse impacts of oil field operations within an urban area.
• See Policy 1.10 for Oil and Gas Code implementation (Implementation Program #42).
11 Policy 3.3: Ensure a sensitive transition between commercial or industrial uses and residential uses by means of such techniques as buffering, landscaping, and setbacks. • The City continues to implement the Site Plan and Design Review process to review all design, landscaping, setbacks, and buffering methods between uses for all development projects (Implementation Program #11).
Policy 3.4: Promote mixed-use development and ensure compatible integration of adjacent uses to minimize conflicts.
Policy 3.5: Encourage the elimination of nonconforming uses and buildings and limit the reuse of nonconforming buildings to less intensive uses more compatible with the underlying zoning.
• See Policy 3.1 above for code enforcement cases.
• See Policy 3.1 above for the 2021 CUP annual review.
Policy 3.6: Provide for undesirable or hazardous commercial or industrial uses while avoiding concentrating those uses near schools or residential neighborhoods, and ensure adequate monitoring of those uses, which involves hazardous materials to avoid industrial accidents, chemical spills, fire, and explosions.
• See Policies 1.10 and 2.6 above for Oil and Gas Code compliance.
Policy 3.7: Maintain and enhance the quality of residential neighborhoods. • On January 19, 2021, the Youth Leadership Institute provided a presentation on Secondhand Smoke in Multi-Unit Housing (Implementation Program #2). • The City continued to implement the Street Tree Ordinance and maintained an inventory of City-owned trees (Implementation Programs #33 and #45). • See Policy 3.11 below for public park and City facilities maintenance and beautification items.
• See Policies 1.2 and 2.2 for SPDR of residential developments. • See Policy 2.3 for View Policy considerations of a residential project.
Policy 3.8: Promote the rehabilitation, revitalization, or replacement of deteriorating residential properties, if necessary, without threatening the security and comfort of residents.
• See Policies 1.10 and 2.6 above for Oil and Gas Code compliance. • See Policies 1.2 and 2.2 for SPDR of residential developments. • See Policy 3.11 below for public park and City facilities maintenance and beautification items.
12 Policy 3.9: Safeguard residential neighborhoods from intrusion by nonconforming and disruptive uses.
• See Policies 1.10 and 2.6 above for Oil and Gas Code compliance. • See Policy 3.1 for closed code enforcement cases.
Policy 3.10: Encourage the revitalization and redevelopment of older commercial and industrial areas.
Policy 3.11: Maintain and improve, where necessary, the City’s infrastructure and facilities.
• On March 9, 2021, the City Council authorized a Contract Services Agreement with Golden Touch Cleaning for custodial maintenance services and included the expanded scope of services to the library (Implementation Program #44).
Policy 3.12: Encourage and promote high quality design and physical appearance in all development projects.
Policy 3.13: Reinforce Signal Hill’s image and community identity within the greater Long Beach Metropolitan area.
• On May 25, 2021, the City Council approved establishment of the Diversity Coalition Committee to engage the community and dialogue on various aspects of race and equity (Implementation Program #60).
• On June 22, 2021, the City Council recognized May 22, 2021, as Harvey Milk Day and the month of June as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning (LGBTQ) Pride Month. Commemorative flags were flown, and informative information was provided at the City Library (Implementation Program #44). • On June 22, 2021, Signal Hill Petroleum made a presentation to the City Council recognizing the 100th anniversary of oil discovery in Signal Hill (Implementation Program #37).
• On October 26, 2021, the City Council voted to rename View Park to Heritage Point Park (Implementation Program #32).
Policy 3.14: Preserve and enhance the City’s special residential character by encouraging the preservation, renovation, and relocation of historic structures in low intensity residential development and a harmonious blending of buildings and landscaping.
Policy 3.15: Improve the image of major highways by use of landscaping, lighting, graphics, and/or other streetscape treatments.
Policy 3.16: Review and revise, as necessary, the City’s development standards to improve the quality of new development and protect the public health and safety. 13 • The City adopted the 2019 California Building Codes and the 2020 County of Los Angeles Fire Code (Implementation Program #50).
• The Building Department continues to address building code violations through the code enforcement program (Implementation Programs #2 and #36). • National Building Safety Month is celebrated each year during the month of May.
Due to the COVID-19 limitations on group gatherings, staff did not conduct the typical group activity with the after-school program students to celebrate Building Safety Month. (Implementation Program #46).
Policy 3.17: Promote “smart growth” principles that encourage development that is economically viable, creates a sense of community, and preserves natural resources.
Smart growth includes narrower streets, mixed uses, smaller setbacks, open spaces, habitat preserves and parks, infill development and compact commercial centers, and the reuse of brownfields.
• See Policies 1.2, 1.6, 1.11, 2.1, and 3.16 above for residential and commercial projects, park development and public facilities that have incorporated “smart growth” principles.
Policy 3.18: Minimize the impacts of storm water runoff to the maximum extent practicable, on the biology, water quality and integrity of natural drainage systems and water bodies.
• The City distributed stormwater educational materials through the Point-ofPurchase outreach campaign. The program persuades store owners to distribute and display the materials to their customers. The brochures address stormwater pollution prevention topics relevant to the business in question, which included local auto shop facilities, hardware and home improvement stores, landscape and gardening centers, and pet shops. Pollutants targeted include bacteria, metals, pesticides, and fertilizers. This program was completed in December 2021. (For more information on this program see Section 5.1b) (Implementation Program #50).
Policy 3.19: Maximize to the extent practicable, the percentage of permeable surfaces to allow more percolation of storm water runoff into the ground. • As part of the City’s SPDR process, applicants of qualifying projects are required to prepare and submit Low Impact Development (LID) plans for City review and approval for compliance with stormwater regulations (Implementation Program #49).
Policy 3.20: Minimize to the extent practicable, the amount of storm water directed to impermeable areas and to the municipal separate storm water system. Build storm water pollution prevention systems into all development projects including maximizing landscaped areas and providing areas for storm water storage and sedimentation. 14 • See Policies 3.18 and 3.19 bullets above for storm water protection and monitoring details.
Policy 3.21: Require new projects to include permanent controls to reduce storm water pollutant loads from development sites including parking lots to the maximum extent practicable.
• In addition to the State LID and the MS4 regulations, the City has a small-site LID Ordinance which captures additional projects to reduce stormwater pollutants while still allowing maintenance of existing parking and landscape areas. The City processed a total of 10 small-site LID plans. (Implementation Programs #48 and 49)
Goal 4: Ensure that future land use decisions are the result of sound and comprehensive planning:
Policy 4.1: Consider all general plan goals and policies, including those in other general plan elements, in evaluating proposed development projects for general plan consistency. • On January 12, 2021, the City Council approved a Professional Consultant Services Agreement with Hawran & Malm for professional appraisal services (Implementation Programs #58, and #61).
• See Policy 1.11 about CDBG funds. (Implementation Program #62). • See Policy 1.11 about CARES Act funds. (Implementation Programs #44 and #62). • On January 26, 2021, the City Council entered into a contract services agreement with CliftonLarsonAllen for professional independent auditing services (Implementation Programs #58, and #61).
• On February 9, 2021, the Gateway Cities Council of Governments and City of Signal Hill entered into a Professional Services Agreement, for the City’s participation in implementing the Gateway Cities Innovation Plan. Funds in the amount of $200,000 will be provided to the City for predevelopment activities in support of the delivery of affordable housing to decrease and prevent homelessness (Implementation Programs #24, #28, and #58). • All projects noted in the policies above were evaluated for consistency with the City’s General Plan, Zoning, and other development and design standards during public and administrative review and approval. Consistency for projects subject to public review is documented by way of adopted resolutions with findings of consistency (Implementation Program #58).
• The City participates in the General Plan Annual Review process, submitting comprehensive reports on General Plan progress by April 1 of each year. (Implementation Program #58).
15 • On September 21, 2021, the Planning Commission held a public workshop and provided an update on the City of Signal Hill’s progress on the completion of the 6 th Cycle HEU. Staff reported the sites to meet the RHNA allocation, conceptual site plans for all proposed housing sites, and updated conceptual site plans for Town Center Northwest (Site No. 3) and Heritage Square (Site No. 4) (Implementation Program #57).
Policy 4.2: Maintain consistency between the Land Use Element, the other elements of the general plan, the zoning ordinance, and the SHMC regulations and standards. • The City completed annual inspections of institutional permits for compliance with conditions of approval and property maintenance for the following businesses (Implementation Program #36):
o Cole Vocational Services - 2798 Junipero Avenue;
o Courtyard Care Center - 1880 Dawson Ave;
o Dungarvin Adult Day Care - 695 E. 27th Street;
o Las Brisas Child Care Center - 2399 California Avenue, Suite A; and o Unlimited Quest & California Mentor - 3350 N. Olive Avenue. • See Policy 4.1 bullets above for project consistency details.
Policy 4.3: Endeavor to promote public interest in the understanding of the general plan and land use programs.
• In 2021, the City Council conducted interviews and completed appointments for Planning, Parks and Recreation, and Civil Service Commissions (Implementation Program #34).
• On April 13, 2021, the Community Development Director presented the kick-off public outreach activities for the 6th Cycle HEU. A total of three workshops were conducted. The City asked residents to complete a housing survey and promoted the survey at Concerts in the Park Summer 2021 (Implementation Program #57). • The Community Development Department maintained and distributed a Neighbor’s Guide to Development which is available to the public on the City’s website. The document explains the City’s SPDR process for development projects. The process described includes developer outreach, neighborhood and community meetings, and public workshops/hearings with the Planning Commission (Implementation Program #57).
• In 2021, the Planning Commission held a total of three public workshops for the 6 th Cycle HEU, which are aimed at giving the public a chance to comment, ask questions, and receive information prior to any formal decisions being made.
During these meetings, general plan and land use items are discussed (Implementation Programs #28, #32, #34, and #57).
16 • Staff used PowerPoint presentations to highlight project data and compliance with land use regulations and General Plan consistency at all public workshops and hearings (Implementation Program #10).
Policy 4.4: Encourage citizen participation in planning and the land use decision making process and development of land use programs and policies. • See Policy 4.3 for public engagement.
• The Planning Commission hosted 6 public workshops, 4 public hearings, and the Director made 4 presentations on various topics including the Housing Element and 2 Mayors Clean-Up events. (Implementation Program #57).
Policy 4.5: Foster inter-governmental cooperation and coordination to maximize the effectiveness of land use policies.
Policy 4.6: Develop comprehensive local and regional rather than piecemeal planning solutions and promote long-range solutions to land use issues. • Staff continued to meet and coordinate with the regional Gateway Cities Council of Governments, Transportation Advisory Committee, and monthly Directors and City Managers meetings to develop comprehensive and long-range solutions to land use issues (Implementation Program #60).
• The City continued to receive information and provide feedback on State and Federal legislation, grant funding, and the 6th Cycle HEU through its active participation in the Gateway Cities COG (Implementation Program #60).
Policy 4.7: Strengthen the framework for effective regional and local planning efforts. • On March 9, 2021, the City Council authorized a Contract Services Agreement between the City and Ralph Anderson & Associates to conduct a city-wide compensation study of full-time and part-time classifications (Implementation Programs #59 and #60).
• On March 9, 2021, the City entered a Contract Services Agreement with the State of California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment for Professional Services to review Human Health/Environmental Risk Assessments on an on-call basis (Implementation Program #58).
• The City participated in ongoing efforts by the Gateway Cities COG to provide accurate data and to provide feedback about various constraints to development in Signal Hill (e.g., oil wells, earthquake faults, etc.) as related to future RHNA numbers for new housing development within the City (Implementation Programs #27 and #28).
17 Jurisidiction Name
Reporting Calendar Year
First Name
Last Name
Title
Email
Phone
Street Address
City
Zipcode
v 9_10_21
Optional: Click here to import last year's data. This is best used when the workbook is new and empty. You will be prompted to pick an old workbook to import from. Project and program data will be copied exactly how it was entered in last year's form and must be updated.
2175 Cherry Avenue
Signal Hill
90755
Please Start Here
General Information
2021
Signal Hill
Contact Information
Colleen
Doan
Director of Community Development
[email protected]
5629897344
Mailing Address
Annual Progress Report January 2020
Housing Element Cover Page
18 Jurisdiction Signal Hill ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT Note: "+" indicates an optional field Reporting Year 2021 (Jan. 1 - Dec. 31) Housing Element Implementation Planning Period 5th Cycle 10/15/2013 - 10/15/2021
Date
Application
Submitted
Total
Approved
Units by
Project
Total
Disapproved
Units by
Project
Streamlining Application
Status Notes
2 3 4 6 7 8 9 11 12
Prior APN+ Current APN Street Address Project Name+
Local Jurisdiction
Tracking ID+
Unit Category
(SFA,SFD,2 to
4,5+,ADU,MH)
Tenure
R=Renter
O=Owner
Date
Application
Submitted+
(see
instructions)
Very LowIncome Deed
Restricted
Very LowIncome Non
Deed
Restricted
LowIncome
Deed
Restricted
Low-Income
Non Deed
Restricted
ModerateIncome Deed
Restricted
ModerateIncome
Non Deed
Restricted
Above
ModerateIncome
Total PROPOSED
Units by Project
Total
APPROVED
Units by project
Total
DISAPPROVED
Units by Project
Was APPLICATION
SUBMITTED
Pursuant to GC
65913.4(b)?
(SB 35
Streamlining)
Was a Density
Bonus requested
for this housing
development?
Was a Density
Bonus approved
for this housing
development?
Please indicate
the status of the
application.
Notes+
Summary Row: Start Data Entry Below 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 5 3 0 7148-002-022 3309.5 Lemon Ave. ADU R 1/13/2021 1 1 1 0 No No N/A Approved 7215-011-011 2154.5 Gaviota Ave. ADU R 2/8/2021 1 1 1 0 No No N/A Approved 7216-015-004 1965.5 Dawson ADU R 1/12/2021 1 1 No No N/A Pending 7217-015-090 2095 Freeman SFD O 2/11/2021 1 1 No No N/A Pending 7148-004-008 3733.5 Orange Ave. ADU R 3/18/2021 1 1 1 0 No No N/A Approved Table A
Housing Development Applications Submitted
Cells in grey contain auto-calculation formulas
1 5
Project Identifier Unit Types Proposed Units - Affordability by Household Incomes (CCR Title 25 §6202)
Density Bonus Applications
10 Table A
19 Jurisdiction Signal Hill ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT Reporting Year 2021 (Jan. 1 - Dec. 31) Housing Element Implementation Planning Period 5th Cycle 10/15/2013 - 10/15/2021
Table A2
Annual Building Activity Report Summary - New Construction, Entitled, Permits and Completed Units 2 3 5 6
Prior APN+ Current APN Street Address Project Name+
Local Jurisdiction
Tracking ID+
Unit Category
(SFA,SFD,2 to
4,5+,ADU,MH)
Tenure
R=Renter
O=Owner
Very LowIncome Deed
Restricted
Very LowIncome Non
Deed Restricted
Low- Income
Deed
Restricted
Low- Income
Non Deed
Restricted
ModerateIncome Deed
Restricted
ModerateIncome Non
Deed Restricted
Above
ModerateIncome
Entitlement
Date Approved # of Units issued
Entitlements
Summary Row: Start Data Entry Below 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 7148-002-022 3309.5 Lemon Ave. ADU R 1
1 7215-011-011 2154.5 Gaviota Ave. ADU R 1
1 7148-004-008 3733.5 Orange Ave. ADU R 1
1 7215-004-032 2260.5 Rose Ave. ADU R 1 1
7217-011-012 1870.5 Temple Ave. ADU R 1
1 7215-008-023 2239.5 Gaviota Ave. ADU R 1
1 7211-020-003 2383.5 Cerritos
Ave. ADU R 11
7211-030-101 1367 E. 23rd St. Summerland SFD O 1 1
7211-030-102 1369 E. 23rd St. Summerland SFD O 1 1
7211-030-103 1371 E. 23rd St. Summerland SFD O 1 1
7211-030-104 1373 E. 23rd St. Summerland SFD O 1 1
7211-030-113 1393 E. 23rd St. Summerland SFD O 1 1
7211-030-114 1395 E. 23rd St. Summerland SFD O 1 1
7211-030-115 1397 E. 23rd St. Summerland SFD O 1 1
7211-030-105 1375 E. 23rd St. Summerland SFD O 1 1
7211-030-106 1377 E. 23rd St. Summerland SFD O 1 1
7211-030-107 1379 E. 23rd St. Summerland SFD O 1 1
7211-030-108 1381 E. 23rd St. Summerland SFD O 1 1
7211-030-109 1383 E. 23rd St. Summerland SFD O 1 1
7211-030-110 1385 E. 23rd St. Summerland SFD O 1 1
7211-030-111 1389 E. 23rd St. Summerland SFD O 1 1
7211-030-112 1391 E. 23rd St. Summerland SFD O 1 1
7211-030-116 1399 E 23rd St. Summerland SFD O 1 1
7211-030-024 1365 E. 23rd St. Demo for SFD R 0
7211-030-025 1387 E. 23rd St. Demo for
Summerland SFD R0
7215-013-901 1905 E. 21st St. Signal Hill
ParkExpansion SFD R0
7215-013-901 1907 E. 21st St. Signal Hill Park
Expansion SFD R0
Project Identifier
(CCR Title 25 §6202)
1 Unit Types Affordability by Household Incomes - Completed Entitlement 4 Table A2
20 Cells in grey contain auto-calculation formulas
8 9 11 12
Very LowIncome Deed
Restricted
Very LowIncome Non
Deed Restricted
Low- Income
Deed
Restricted
Low- Income
Non Deed
Restricted
ModerateIncome Deed
Restricted
ModerateIncome Non
Deed Restricted
Above
ModerateIncome
Building Permits
Date Issued
# of Units Issued
Building Permits
Very LowIncome Deed
Restricted
Very LowIncome Non
Deed
Restricted
Low- Income
Deed
Restricted
Low- Income
Non Deed
Restricted
ModerateIncome Deed
Restricted
ModerateIncome Non
Deed Restricted
Above
ModerateIncome
Certificates of
Occupancy or other
forms of readiness
(see instructions) Date
Issued
# of Units
issued
Certificates of
Occupancy or
other forms of
readiness
0 0 0 0 0 0 13 13 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 10
0 0
1 9/22/2021 1 1 1
1 6/24/2021 1 1 1
1 10/5/2021 1 1 1
1 6/8/2021 1 1 1
1 6/29/2021 1 0
1 1 1 1/29/2021 1
1 1 1 2/16/2021 1
1 1 1 9/9/2021 1
1 1 1 9/9/2021 1
1 1 1 9/9/2021 1
1 1 1 9/9/2021 1
1 1 1 9/9/2021 1
1 1 1 9/9/2021 1
1 1 1 9/9/2021 1
1 1/6/2021 1 9/9/2021 0
1 1/6/2021 1 9/9/2021 0
1 1/6/2021 1 0
1 1/6/2021 1 0
1 1/6/2021 1 0
1 1/6/2021 1 0
1 1/6/2021 1 0
1 1/6/2021 1 0
1 1 1 9/9/2021 1
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 0
Note: "+" indicates an optional field
Affordability by Household Incomes - Building Permits Affordability by Household Incomes - Certificates of Occupancy 7 10
Table A2
21 Streamlining Infill
Housing without Financial
Assistance or Deed
Restrictions
Term of Affordability
or Deed Restriction Notes
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
How many of the
units were
Extremely Low
Income?+
Was Project
APPROVED using
GC 65913.4(b)?
(SB 35 Streamlining)
Y/N
Infill Units?
Y/N+
Assistance Programs
for Each Development
(may select multiple -
see instructions)
Deed Restriction
Type
(may select multiple -
see instructions)
For units affordable without
financial assistance or deed
restrictions, explain how the
locality determined the units
were affordable
(see instructions)
Term of Affordability or
Deed Restriction (years)
(if affordable in perpetuity
enter 1000)+
Number of
Demolished/Dest
royed Units
Demolished or
Destroyed Units
Demolished/Des
troyed Units
Owner or Renter
Total Density Bonus Applied to
the Project (Percentage
Increase in Total Allowable
Units or Total Maximum
Allowable Residential Gross
Floor Area)
Number of Other
Incentives,
Concessions, Waivers,
or Other Modifications
Given to the Project
(Excluding Parking
Waivers or Parking
Reductions)
List the incentives,
concessions,
waivers, and
modifications
(Excluding Parking
Waivers or Parking
Modifications)
Did the project receive a
reduction or waiver of
parking standards? (Y/N)
Notes+
0 0 4 0
1 Other Yes No Impact Fees
0 N Y 0 1 Other Yes No Impact Fees
0 N Y 0
0 N Y 0 1 Other Yes No Impact Fees
0 N Y 0 1 Other Yes No Impact Fees
0 N Y 0 1 Other Yes No Impact Fees
0 N Y 0 1 Other Yes No Impact Fees
0 N Y 0
0 N Y 0
0 N Y 0
0 N Y 0
0 N Y 0
0 N Y 0
0 N Y 0
0 N Y 0
0 N Y 0
0 N Y 0
0 N Y 0
0 N Y 0
0 N Y 0
0 N Y 0
0 N Y 0
0 N Y
1 1
0 1
1 Housing with Financial Assistance
and/or Deed Restrictions Demolished/Destroyed Units Density Bonus Table A2
22 Jurisdiction Signal Hill ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT Reporting Year 2021 (Jan. 1 - Dec. 31) Housing Element Implementation Planning Period 5th Cycle 10/15/2013 - 10/15/2021 (CCR Title 25 §6202) 1 3 4
RHNA Allocation
by Income Level 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Total Units to Date (all years) Total Remaining
RHNA by Income
Level
Deed Restricted - - 44 - - - - - -
Non-Deed Restricted - - - - - - - - -
Deed Restricted - - 27 - - - - - -
Non-Deed Restricted - - - - - - - - -
Deed Restricted - - - - - - - - -
Non-Deed Restricted 17 2 - - 1 1 - -
Above Moderate 70 1 - 3 24 1 3 9 13 54 16
169
18 73 3 24 2 4 9 13 146 23
Note: units serving extremely low-income households are included in the very low-income permitted units totals and must be reported as very low-income units. -
Please note: For the last year of the 5th cycle, Table B will only include units that were permitted during the portion of the year that was in the 5th cycle. For the first year of the 6th cycle, Table B will only included units that were permitted during the portion of the year that was in the 6th cycle.
Total RHNA
Total Units
Income Level
Very Low
Low
Please note: The APR form can only display data for one planning period. To view progress for a different planning period, you may login to HCD's online APR system, or contact HCD staff at [email protected]. 7 44
This table is auto-populated once you enter your jurisdiction name and current year data. Past year information comes from previous APRs.
21 Moderate
44 27
28 Please contact HCD if your data is different than the material supplied here 27 2
Table B
Regional Housing Needs Allocation Progress
Permitted Units Issued by Affordability
-
Table B
23 Jurisdiction Signal Hill
Reporting Year 2021 (Jan. 1 - Dec. 31)
1 2 3 4
Name of Program Objective Timeframe in H.E Status of Program Implementation Adequate Sites Program Minimum of 13 housing units for lower income households 12/3/2013
Completed by Dec. 3, 2013 by re-zoning affordable housing site to accommodate 72 units, resulting 78 total lower income units compared to 71 units required by the Jan. 2014 - Oct. 2021 RHNA.
Second Unit Development
Program 20 second units constructed October 2013-October 2021 In progress: In 2014, a bldg. permit was issued for 1 2nd unt at 3242 Cerritos Ave.
In 2015, a building permit was issued for a new duplex at 924 Vernon Street (an existing SFD was demolished) for a net increase of 1 unit.
In 2016, a building permit was issued for a second unit and a remodel of the existing SFD at 3347 Brayton Avenue for a net increase of 1 unit.
No second unit permits were issued in 2017.
In 2018, 2 bldg. permits were issued for ADU's at 2819 1/2 E. 19th St. and 2060 1/2 Raymond Ave.
In 2019, 3 bldg. permits were issued for ADU's at 3233 1/2 Lemon Ave., 2477 1/2 Gaviota Ave., and 1958 1/2 Dawson Ave.
In 2020, 1 bldg. permit was issued for an ADU at 2383 1/2 Cerritos Ave. and 3 ADUs plans have been submitted with permits pending.
In 2021, 5 ADU permits were issued at 3309 1/2 Temple Ave., 22601/2 Rose Ave., 2154 1/2 Gaviota Ave. , and 3733 1/2 Orange Ave. Two additional ADUs received Certificates of Occupancy at 2383 1/2 Cerritos Ave. and 2239 1/2 Gaviota Ave.
No Net Loss Program Establish the evaluation procedure to monitor housing capacity. June-July 2014
In 2021, all residential units identified in the 2013-2021 Housing Element to accommodate the City's share of regional planning need remain zoned for residential uses.
Housing Programs Progress Report
Describe progress of all programs including local efforts to remove governmental constraints to the maintenance, improvement, and development of housing as identified in the housing element.
Table D
Program Implementation Status pursuant to GC Section 65583
ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT
Housing Element Implementation
(CCR Title 25 §6202)
Table D
24 Zoning Ordinance
Amendments to Provide a
Variety of Housing Types
Adopted Amendments January 7, 2014 and JuneJuly 2014
Completed - On Nov. 8,2016, The City adopted a Reasonable Accommodations Ordinance to establish procedures to provide relief from the strict application of zoning
and other land use regulations to ensure equal access to housing for persons with disabilities.
On January 23, 2018, the City ammended their EmergencyShelters Ordinance to more accurately reflect that Emergency Shelters are allowed in the Commercial General (CG) rather than the Commercial Residential (CR) zoning district.
In 2019, construction of 24 SFDs approved under a Specific Plan zoning ordinance amendment was completed and C of Os issued. All homes are sold and occupied.
On April 16, 2020, ZOA 19-01 was approved for the Summerland Specific Plan SP22, for development of 16 SFDs.
In 2021, construction was completed and CofOs issued on 8 units in the Summerland project and 8 permits were issued and construction commenced on 8 additional Summerland units.
Section 8 Rental
Assistance for Cost
Burdened Lower Income
Households
55 units for lower income renter
households
October 2013-October
2021
Ongoing - The Housing Authority of the County of Los Angeles(HACoLA) administers the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program. Informational housing assistance links are provided on the City website.
In 2015, there were 56 families receiving housing assistance who reside in Signal Hill.
In 2016, there were 50 families receiving housing assistance who reside in Signal Hill.
In 2017, there were 43 families receiving housing assistance who reside in Signal Hill.
In 2018, there were 46 families receiving housing assistance who reside in Signal Hill.
In 2019, there were 49 families receiving housing assistance who reside in Signal Hill.
In 2020, there were 51 families receiving housing assistance who reside in Signal Hill.
In 2021, there were 45 families receiving housing assistance who reside in Signal Hill.
Hill Street Affordable
Housing Development
72 housing units for lower income
households
ZOA on December 3, 2013;
Development October
2013-October 2021
Completed - The 72 unit workforce housig project was issued a certificate of occupancy in 2018.
Table D
25 First Time Home Buyer
Assistance 5 lower income households October 2013-October 2021 In process - The City does not have money in the affordable housing fund due to the dissolution of the Signal Hill Redevelopment Agency.
In 2017, the City held a first time home buyers forum to educate and provide financial and real estate information and contacts to first time home buyers. The City maintains information about non-city programs on the City's web site.
In 2020, due to the restrictions of COVID-19, the City did not conduct any home buyer or rental asssistance forums; however, as part of the development of the 6th Cycle Housing Element, assistance programs will be implemented.
In 2021, due to the restrictions of COVID-19, the City did not conduct any home buyer or rental asssistance forums; however, as part of the development of the 6th Cycle Housing Element, assistance programs will be implemented.
Outreach Program for
Persons with
Developmental Disabilities
Coordinate with Harbor Regional Center Implement outreach components mid-year 2015
In process - The City is within the Long Beach Harbor Regional Center service area and disabled residents are eligible for programs and services.
Informational links are posted on the City website.
The Eucalyptus Sea Breeze Manor apartments located in the City were built using funding through HUD's Section 811 Supportive Housing for the Persons with Disabilities program. Residency is restricted to persons who earn 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) or less. Similar to other rental assistance programs such as Section 8, residents' rents are based on their income and the tenant contribution is set at 30% of the tenant's income.
In 2017, representatives from the Regional Housing Authority and City staff, including the Police Department, conducted an information sharing meeting to better implement available programs. In 2018, the
City confirmed their local contact with the LBHRC was Nancy Spiegel, Director of Information and Develpment.
In 2019, the City confirmed their local contact with LBHRC was Nancy Spiegel, Director of Information and Development.
In 2020, the City confirmed their local contract with LBHRC was Nancy Spiegel, Director of Information and Development.
In 2021, the City confirmed their local contract with LBHRC was Nancy Spiegel, Director of Information and Development.
Extremely Low Income
Housing Program
Assist 57 extremely low income
households
October 2013-October
2021
In 2021, all residential units identified in the 2013-2021 Housing Element to accommodate the City's share of regional planning need remain zoned for residential uses.
Table D
26 Zoning Ordinance
Amendments to Remove
Governmental Constraints
on Housing for the
Disabled
Adopted Amendments June-July 2014
In process -
On November 5, 2015, the Community Development Department had a training session regarding reasonable accommodations on the basis of disability/handicap. The City also entered into a conciliation agreement/voluntary compliance agreement for an addition to a existing
residential dwelling.
On Nov. 8, 2016, The City adopted a Reasonable Accommodations Ordinance to establish procedures to provide relief from the strict application of zoning and other land use regulations to ensure equal access to housing for persons with disabilities.
In 2019, the City received one request for reasonable accommodation to install an elevator in a residence. A permit was issued, but the construction never commenced.
In 2020, the City began due diligence to identify new sites to accommoddate the estimated 2021-2029 6th Cycle regional housing need allocation of 517 units, with anticipation that the Special Purpose Housing Specific Plan, SP-7, will be amended to include future housing sites to acommodate housing development for special needs residents.
In 2021 the City submitted a Draft 6th Cycle HEU to HCD with an inventory of sites sufficient to accommodate the 517 unt RHNA allocation.
Zoning Ordinance
Amendments to
Encourage and Facilitate
the Development of
Affordable Housing -
Update Density Bonus
Ordinance (DBO)
Adopted DBO June-July 2014
In 2018, staff began preparation of a draft DBO, which was expected to be reviewed by the Planning Commission in April or May 2019 and adopted by City Council in May or June 2019. However, City staff and resources ran short and DBO law has changed. Therefore, the City will be using their SB2, LEAP,, or PLHA approved funding to hire a consultant to prepare a DBO ordinance in 2020.
In 2020, the City was awarded SB2 funding and an update to the City's DBO will be an implementation program for the 6th Cycle 2021-2029 Housing Element Update.
Annual Housing
Monitoring Program
Monitor height limits and parking
standards as potential constraints
October 2013-October
2021
Completed - The City has eliminated the height limit and parking constraints by approving increased height limits and reduced parking requirements for housing developments with affordable housing units.
In 2020, the City began due diligence to identify new sites to accommoddate the estimated 2021-2029 6th Cycle regional housing need allocation of 517 units, with anticipation that the Special Purpose Housing Specific Plan, SP-7, will be amended to include future housing sites with relaxed development standards to acommodate housing development with affordable housing units.
Table D
27 Housing Code
Enforcement Program 2-5 new cases per month October 2013-October 2021 Completed and Ongoing -
In 2015, the City closed 58 code enforcement cases.
In 2016, the City closed 67 code enforcement cases.
In 2017, the City closed 68 code enforcement cases.
In 2018, the City closed 49 code enforcement cases.
In 2019, the City closed 39 code enforcement cases.
In 2020, the City closed 32 code enforcement cases.
In 2021, the City closed 43 code enforcement cases.
Housing Rehabilitation
Program 20 housing units October 2013-October 2021
In 2021, the City continued to monitor the program, but the CalHome Program did not make funds available for new applications.
Fair Housing Services
Program 65 lower-income households October 2013-October 2021 Ongoing - The City provides residents with flyers provided by the Housing Rights Center and posts information on the City web site. The City participated in a fair housing training session conducted by the City Attorney's office in 2015. A second session is anticipated to be scheduled for 2020.
In 2020, due to COVID-19 restrictions, the City did not hold a second fair housing training session, but staff fielded calls and provided guidance regarding rental assistance programs, Section 8 housing, and the Housing Rights Center.
In 2021, due to COVID-19 restrictions, the City did not hold a second fair housing training session, but staff fielded calls and provided guidance regarding rental assistance programs, Section 8 housing, and the Housing Rights Center.
Energy Conservation
Program
Promote Primer and encourage
weatherization and energy efficient
home improvements
October 2013-October
2021
Ongoing - The City implements the most current, 2019 CALGreen requirements and promotes Green Building by providing developers with information on the City's Green Building policy.
The City's Sustainable City Committee (SCC) also promotes energy conservation programs through accomplishment of local goals and received two Beacon Awards for Sustainability in 2018 In 2018.
A Gold Level Beacon Award for Sustainability Best Practices and a Silver Level Award for 6% Energy Savings.
In 2019, the SCC has had oversight of the 2020 application for additional Beacon awards.
In 2020, the City received a Platinum Level Beacon Spotlight Award for Sustainability Best Practices.
In 2021, the City received a Silver Energy Action Award from the Gateway Cities.
Table D
28 Jurisdiction Signal Hill
Note: "+" indicates
an optional field
Reporting Period 2021
(Jan. 1 - Dec.
31)
Cells in grey
contain autocalculation formulas
Designation Size Notes
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
APN Street Address/Intersection Existing Use Number of
Units
Surplus
Designation
Parcel Size (in
acres) Notes
7214-005-901-904 2435-2461, 2475, 2485 Gardena Ave. Vacant Surplus Land 1.91 Completed Surplus
Land Act process in
compliance with GC
section 54222
7212-008-913-914 2745 Walnut Ave. Vacant Surplus Land 1.3 Completed Surplus
Land Act process in
compliance with GC
section 54222
7212-013-901-916 1850 E. 28th St. Vacant Surplus Land 1.2 Completed Surplus
Land Act process in
compliance with GC
section 54222
7212-013-900, 902;
7212-014-900-906
2728-2730 Cherry Ave.; 2099 E. 27th St. and
2701 St. Louis Ave.; 2650, 2660 Cherry Ave. Vacant Surplus Land 1.3 Completed Surplus
Land Act process in
compliance with GC
section 54222
7207-004-900;
7207-004-271, 272;
7207-005-900;
7207-006-900-945;
7207-007-900-941
630-998 E. Spring St., 631-799 E. Canton St.,
801-999 E. Canton St., 630-798 E. Canton St.,
800-998 E. Canton St., 631-799 E. 29th St., and
801-999 E. 29th St.
Vacant Surplus Land 13
Completed Surplus
Land Act process in
compliance with GC
section 54222
7214-005-900 2200 Block of Gardena Ave. Vacant Surplus Land 0.5 Completed Surplus
Land Act process in
compliance with GC
section 54222
7215-007-900-902 2200 Block of Gaviota Ave. Vacant Surplus Land 0.34 Completed Surplus
Land Act process in
compliance with GC
section 54222
7215-026-900 Temple Ave. at Hill St. Vacant Surplus Land 0.18 Completed Surplus
Land Act process in
compliance with GC
section 54222
7215-024-900-901 Stanley Ave. at Hill St. Vacant Surplus Land 0.36 Completed Surplus
Land Act process in
compliance with GC
section 54222
Summary Row: Start Data Entry Below
Parcel Identifier
ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT
Housing Element Implementation
(CCR Title 25 §6202)
Table H
Locally Owned Surplus Sites
Table H
29 Jurisdiction Signal Hill
Reporting Year 2021 (Jan. 1 - Dec. 31)
Planning Period 5th Cycle 10/15/2013 - 10/15/2021
Current Year
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
13 13
Units by Structure Type Entitled Permitted Completed
SFA 0 0 0
SFD 0 8 8
2 to 4 0 0 0
5 + 0 0 0
ADU 0 5 2
MH 0 0 0
Total 0 13 10
5 5
3 0
0 0
0 0
Income Rental Ownership Total
Very Low 0 0 0
Low 0 0 0
Moderate 0 0 0
Above Moderate 0 0 0
Total 0 0 0
Cells in grey contain auto-calculation formulas
Total Units Constructed with Streamlining
Total Housing Applications Submitted:
Number of Proposed Units in All Applications Received:
Total Housing Units Approved:
Total Housing Units Disapproved:
Total Units
Housing Applications Summary
Use of SB 35 Streamlining Provisions
Note: Units serving extremely low-income households are included in the very low-income permitted units totals Number of Applications for Streamlining
Building Permits Issued by Affordability Summary
Income Level
Very Low
Low
Moderate
Above Moderate
Units Constructed - SB 35 Streamlining Permits
Number of Streamlining Applications Approved
Total Developments Approved with Streamlining
Summary
30 Jurisdiction Signal Hill
Reporting Year 2021 (Jan. 1 - Dec. 31)
Total Award Amount Total award amount is auto-populated based on amounts entered in rows 15-26.
Task $ Amount Awarded $ Cumulative Reimbursement
Requested
Other
Funding Notes
Task 1: Supplement to SB2 Grant
Subtask
1.3a Conceptual Site Plans
$4,000.00 $0.00 Other
SB2
Subtask 1.5a Complete
GPA/ZOA/CEQA $29,000.00 $0.00 Other
SB2
Task 2: Subtask 2.1 Housing
Element Community Outreach $3,000.00 $0.00 Other
SB2
Subtask 2.2 Prepare New Sections $4,000.00 $0.00 Other
SB2
Subtask 2.3 Prepare Draft Housing
Element $5,000.00 $0.00 None
Subtask 2.5 Prepare Public
Hearing Draft HE $2,000.00 $0.00 None
Task 3: Housing Element
Implementation
Subtask 3.1 Preparation of ADU
Checklist and Manual
$5,000.00 $0.00
Local
General
Fund
SB2
Subtask 3.2 Outreach to Land
Owners and Developers $6,550.00 $0.00 None
Task 4: City Attorney
Subtask 4.1 Attorney Review and
Comments
$2,600.00 $0.00
Local
General
Fund SB2
Task 5: Gateway Cities COG
Subtask 5.1 Gateway Cities COG
1% Charge
$650.00 $0.00
Local
General
Fund SB2
Summary of entitlements, building permits, and certificates of occupancy (auto-populated from Table A2) Current Year
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
0 0
Current Year
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
13 13
Current Year
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
Deed Restricted 0
Non-Deed Restricted 0
0 0
Moderate
Above Moderate
Total Units
Completed Entitlement Issued by Affordability Summary
Income Level
Very Low
Low
Moderate
Above Moderate
Total Units
Building Permits Issued by Affordability Summary
Income Level
Very Low
Low
Total Units
Certificate of Occupancy Issued by Affordability Summary Income Level
Very Low
Low
Moderate
Above Moderate
In Progress
Completed
In Progress
Completed
Completed
In Progress
In Progress
ANNUAL ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT
Local Early Action Planning (LEAP) Reporting
(CCR Title 25 §6202)
In Progress
Please update the status of the proposed uses listed in the entity’s application for funding and the corresponding impact on housing within the region or jurisdiction, as applicable, categorized based on the eligible uses specified in Section 50515.02 or 50515.03, as applicable.
$ 61,800.00
Task Status
Completed
In Progress
LEAP Reporting
31 CIRCULATION ELEMENT
The Circulation Element was adopted in 2010, contains eight goals and 33 Implementation Programs. The significant achievements for the year 2021 are below.
Goal 1: NEW DEVELOPMENT AND REGIONAL COOPERATION
Ensure that new development results in the preservation and enhancement of the City’s circulation system.
Policy 1.a: Ensure that necessary circulation system enhancements and expansions occur concurrently with new development and are consistent with the Los Angeles County Congestion Management Program.
• On December 14, 2021, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 2021-11-1529, and Zoning Ordinance Amendment 21-01, for development of a light industrial project totaling approximately 51,000 square feet on two sites on either side of Walnut Avenue, south of E. Hill Street. The project includes street dedications and improvements to both sides of Walnut Avenue along the project frontages and a portion of E. 21st Street. On October 19, 2021, the Planning Commission approved Site Plan and Design Review 21-07, contingent on City Council approval of the other aspects of the project and made a finding of consistency on the street vacation.
Policy 1.b: Require that new development include circulation and utility system improvements, including dedication of land for widening of roadways and pedestrian and bicycle facilities, where appropriate, and construction of new public works facilities reasonably related to the impacts of the development and intended use on the existing systems.
• See Policy 1.a. (Implementation Programs #1 and #3).
Policy 1.c: Develop and improve the circulation and utility systems by identifying and establishing a range of funding sources.
• On January 26, 2021, the City Council approved Amendment No. 4 with Long Beach Public Transportation Company for FY 2020-21 Contract Services for Proposition A Dial-A-Lift Services for a total not-to-exceed budget of $42,790. The City utilized Proposition A revenue for the following transportation programs (Implementation Program #60):
o Dial-A-Lift;
o Fixed Route Bus services; and
o Dial-A-Taxi services.
• On February 23, 2021, the City Council approved an Amendment to a Contract Services Agreement for Extension of On-Call City Engineer, City Traffic Engineer, City Survey, and Geotechnical Services (Implementation Program #6). 32 • On March 9, 2021, the City Council adopted a Resolution to approve a list of projects funded by SB 1 – The Road Repair and Accountability Act (Implementation Program #6).
Policy 1.d: Limit growth and development when the impacts of growth cannot be mitigated or will overtax the existing systems.
Policy 1.e: Strengthen the framework for effective regional and local circulation system planning efforts.
• On September 14, 2021, the City Council executed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority for preparation of design documents for the Willow Street Corridor Congestion Relief Project (Implementation Program #6).
• At its September 28, 2021, City Council meeting, District 7 Caltrans Metro Liaison, Hammer Sui, provided a presentation regarding the Clean California Program and the community engagement opportunities for the State Beautification enhancements proposed along the I-405 Freeway corridor (Implementation Program #10).
Policy 1.f: Ensure that new development provides adequate parking for anticipated uses; however, reductions in parking requirements should be considered where alternative modes of transportation or shared parking opportunities exist. • Staff reviewed preliminary plans for renovation of the Target store at 950 E. 33rd Street, construction of new retail pads, and a new self-storage facility at 3177 California Avenue. As part of the project, the applicant submitted a traffic and parking study to address shared parking and circulation (Implementation Program #3).
Policy 1.g: Examine shared parking strategies for developments in mixed-use areas. • See Policy 1.f. (Implementation Program #3).
Policy 1.h: Implement a parking management program for existing and new developments considering parking reductions or shared use parking strategies. • See Policy 1.f. (Implementation Program #3).
Goal 2: ROADWAYS
Provide a safe and efficient roadway system for all users.
Policy 2.a: Construct new roadways and improve existing roadways consistent with the classification system for minimum right-of-way widths described in the Official Plan Lines Map.
Policy 2.b: Vacate roadways that are redundant or unnecessary for new development and allow private roadways to reduce short- and long-term maintenance costs. 33 Policy 2.c: Promote proactive and systematic repair and replacement of worn roadways and infrastructure.
• On May 17, 2021, the City entered into a Temporary Construction Easement Agreement with the Glenn E. Thomas Dodge Dealership due to the Los Angeles County Sanitation District No. 2 planned upgrades to its 2200 E. Spring Street Pumping Plant. The pumping plant is a sewage lift station that serves the residents and businesses of the City of Signal Hill (Implementation Program #4).
Policy 2.d: Coordinate and monitor the physical condition and operation of existing transportation systems by analyzing activity areas and the various transportation links (roadway, pedestrian, bicycle, and others) that connect those activity areas.
Policy 2.e: Consider the implementation of a neighborhood traffic management strategic plan to mitigate traffic impacts to residents without impacting adjacent streets or neighborhoods, and while ensuring that the needs of emergency response, sanitation, and other vehicles are not unduly impeded.
• On May 17, 2021, the City Council approved a Resolution declaring final acceptance and completion of the traffic sign modification project on Junipero Avenue at Pacific Coast Highway (Project No. 90.19002) (Implementation Program #6).
• The City’s Traffic Safety Committee, which consists of employees from Public Works, Signal Hill Police Department, and Administration continued to meet monthly to discuss traffic related items, concerns, and requests throughout the City (Implementation Program #13).
Policy 2.f: As areas develop or are redeveloped, require the construction of “complete streets” which serve all users of the roadway, including motor vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists, and others.
See Policy 3.d. (Implementation Program #22).
Policy 2.g: Pursue Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), which may include traffic signal synchronization, bus and emergency vehicle priority signals, and the linking of traffic signal timing with traffic volumes, as a cost-effective method of achieving improved circulation system performance.
Policy 2.h: Coordinate with the City of Long Beach in the development of an ITS program that is consistent with regional goals in the development and prioritization of projects.
Goal 3: PEDESTRIAN AND BICYCLE CIRCULATION
Create a safe and comfortable environment for pedestrians and bicyclists, encouraging the use of these modes of transportation for the majority of shorter trips.
Policy 3.a: Promote healthy, energy-efficient, and sustainable living by promoting the expansion of the city trails and walkways system.
34 • The City’s 6th Cycle Housing Element Update Draft document was submitted to the State in September 2021 and includes four housing sites to accommodate the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) allocation of 517 units, and includes pedestrian connectivity between the sites and citywide, as well as close proximity to public transportation and commercial, medical, and educational facilities. (Implementation Programs # 19 and #20).
Policy 3.b: Preserve existing public access to the trails system to promote recreational walking and hiking, fitness, and alternative modes of transportation.
Policy 3.c: Support the conversion of the former Pacific Electric Railway right-of-way along the southwestern border of the city into a pedestrian and bicycle path.
Policy 3.d: Coordinate with the City of Long Beach to ensure that current and future pedestrian and bicycle facilities are properly linked at city boundaries. • On September 28, 2021, the City entered a Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Long Beach to share construction cost (for an amount not to exceed $502,000) for street improvements for the Spring Street Bicycle Lane Gap Closure Project within Long Beach’s right-of-way on Spring Street between Atlantic Avenue and Junipero Avenue. On October 12, 2021, the City entered into a Contract Services Agreement with FCG Consultants, Inc., for professional services, including Construction Management, Inspection, and Labor Compliance, related to the Spring Street Bicycle Lane Gap Closure Project. (Implementation Program #22).
• On October 26, 2021, the City Council authorized the purchase of 19 pedestrian light poles from Southern California Edison. The newly installed 19 light poles supplemented the existing streetlights located on Spring Street, as part of the Spring Street Bicycle Lane Gap Closure Project (Implementation Program #22 and #29).
Policy 3.e: Require the construction of sidewalks on streets abutting new residential and commercial development.
Policy 3.f: Require the construction of a trails system to connect buildings, parks, and schools to each other, to the street, and to transit facilities. • See Policy 3.a. (Implementation Programs # 19 and #20).
Policy 3.g: Prioritize pedestrian and bicycle projects that help meet the requirements of the ADA.
Policy 3.h: Participate in the Safe Routes to School program. • On April 27, 2021, the City Council approved a Contract Services Agreement for Crossing Guard Services for an annual contract amount of $125,044 and a total not-to-exceed contract amount of $375,132 with an initial term of three years with two optional one-year extensions (Implementation Program #24). 35 Policy 3.i: Coordinate pedestrian and bicycle linkages to the Metro Blue Line (now called “A” Line) with the City of Long Beach.
Goal 4: PUBLIC TRANSIT
Maintain and enhance the City’s public transportation network, increasing its role as a critical element for mobility in the area.
Policy 4.a: Encourage a wide range of responsive and accessible public transportation alternatives to the automobile.
• The City utilized Proposition A revenue for transportation-related programs provided by the Long Beach Public Transportation Company including Dial-A-Life, Fixed Route Bus services, and Dial-A-Taxi services. On June 23, 2021 the City Council authorized execution of three amendments to funding agreements between the City and various service companies (Implementation Program #25).
Policy 4.b: Support increased transit service frequency and capital improvements to serve high-density employment, commercial, residential, and mixed-use areas.
Policy 4.c: Support improvements to transit facilities that enhance the quality of transit service by providing real-time information, seating, shade structures, and other features.
Goal 5: GOODS MOVEMENT
Permit safe and efficient goods movement to support regional commerce industry, while minimizing undesirable impacts on Signal Hill residents.
Policy 5.a: Evaluate proposed projects on the I-405 and I-710 freeways to determine if significant impacts from increased truck traffic will result on roadways in Signal Hill.
Policy 5.b: Identify appropriate routes for trucks serving industrial, commercial, and mixed-use activity areas, discouraging truck traffic from entering residential neighborhoods.
Goal 6: UTILITIES
Provide safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly utilities systems and pipelines.
Policy 6.a: Maintain essential access to petroleum resources by preserving pipeline facilities, where appropriate.
• On October 12, 2021, the second reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 2021- 09-1528 was completed, which granted a franchise to Tesoro SoCal Pipeline Company, LLC. This franchise agreement allows Tesoro to lay and use pipes and appurtenances for transmitting and distributing oil and petroleum products for any and all lawful purposes under and along the public streets, alleys, and places (Implementation Program #30).
Policy 6.b: Concurrent with development of vacant land or with substantial reconstruction of existing development, encourage the relocation of overhead utility systems to underground systems, where appropriate and feasible.
36 Policy 6.c: Encourage the development of infrastructure that supports new power generating sources, such as solar and wind energy.
• On April 13, 2021, the City signed a Proclamation to Participate in the Energy Upgrade California (EUC) Program. The EUC promotes energy conservation and shares information with residents and local businesses on simple ways to conserve energy (Implementation Program #30).
• Consistent with State-mandated regulations, the City offered expedited review of EV chargers and rooftop solar projects (Implementation Program #31).
Goal 7: TRANSPORTATION DEMAND MANAGEMENT
Reduce single-occupant vehicle travel by establishing Transportation Demand Management (TDM) programs.
Policy 7.a: Encourage major traffic generators to develop and implement TDM programs.
Policy 7.b: Encourage major traffic generators to provide transit subsidies, bicycle facilities (including showers/changing rooms), alternative work schedules, ridesharing opportunities, telecommuting options, and preferential parking for carpools.
Policy 7.c: Implement TDM programs for City employees.
Policy 7.d: Encourage proposed development projects to integrate features and facilities that support alternative modes of transportation.
Policy 7.e: Consider TDM programs with achievable trip reduction goals as partial mitigation for project traffic impacts. Where TDM programs are used as a project mitigation, penalties should be instituted to prevent programs from being reduced in scope or eliminated after the project is constructed.
Goal 8: SUSTAINABILITY
Minimize the environmental impact of transportation systems in Signal Hill.
Policy 8.a: Encourage infill of vacant lots close to transportation, municipal facilities, and shopping opportunities to maximize the use and efficiency of the existing circulation system with high-density and/or high-floor area ratio development encouraging the use of alternative modes of transportation, which will help reduce total vehicular trips.
Policy 8.b: Promote mixed-use development to reduce the expansion of the roadway system and minimize maintenance costs.
• City staff continued to engage in long-range planning discussions with Signal Hill Petroleum, the City’s largest property owner, regarding potential future development of mixed-use commercial and high-density residential projects on multiple sites throughout the City to accommodate the 6 th Cycle RHNA allocation
of 517 units over the cycle’s eight-year period (Implementation Program #4).
Policy 8.c: Encourage the development of mixed-use and high-density projects near bus routes, particularly those serving the Metro Blue Line. 37 Policy 8.d: Consider reducing transportation impact fees for mixed-use projects near major transit corridors that offer extensive facilities and programs that will reduce vehicle miles traveled.
38 ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES ELEMENT
The Environmental Resources Element was last updated on February 16, 1988. The Parks and Recreation Master Plan (PRMP) was last updated on December 1989 and incorporated into the PRMP as Appendix A of the Environmental Resources Element (Ordinance No. 89-12-1047). Since then, several other planning documents have been completed including a Needs Assessment in 2008, a Park Master Plan for Signal Hill Park in 2011, an updated Community Recreation Needs Assessment in 2017, and a draft PRMP in 2018.
During finalization of the PRMP, additional areas of clarification were identified, including park development impact fees. In 2021, it became clear that a companion document was needed to further refine the City’s priorities in the form of a Prioritization and Implementation Plan (PIP). The PIP identifies trail, facility, and program priorities over the next 10 years and makes recommendations on park development impact fees. In 2021, a draft PIP was completed and will be reviewed by the City Council in 2022.
The Environmental Resources Element contains seven goals and 39 Implementation Programs. The significant achievements for the year 2021 are below:
Goal 1: Maintain and enhance the identity and aesthetic quality of Signal Hill as a city with striking view potential, and a City that is carefully managing its transportation from resource extraction to balance land uses.
Policy 1.1: Protect views both to and from the Hill and other scenic features. This will extend to all new development and to major rebuilding and additions. • In 2021, the City utilized $42,318 of the $2,000,000 from Proposition 1, Tier 1 funding through the Rivers and Mountains Conservancy (RMC) to develop the View Park Stormwater Infiltration Project for design and project management. On October 22, 2021, the City Council voted to rename the park Heritage Point Park. (Implementation Programs #5 and #25).
Policy 1.2: Design a greenbelt system that includes landscaped entranceways to the City, and landscaped medians and parkways on City streets. The greenbelt system should be linked to the civic center as a community focal point, the City’s park system, bicycle and pedestrian trail system, active and passive open space, with consideration given to developing guidelines to integrate the system with private open space. • The design of Heritage Point Park described in Policy 1.1 above, includes a trail that connects to the hilltop trail system and pedestrian access to the Civic Center Neighborhood, and other areas of the City. The park trail design will illustrate the City’s historic landmarks (Implementation Programs #3 and #5).
Policy 1.3: Develop design guidelines and themes that can be utilized throughout the City, and that are integrated with the greenbelt system, public signage, street furniture, public buildings, and similar facilities.
• In 2021, the City replaced bus stop benches and installed solar powered e-paper digital display equipment at key bus stops throughout the City. The bus stop 39 seating and message boards utilized the Signal Hill teal theme color as a unifying element (Implementation Program #5).
• In February 2021, the City entered into an agreement with the Conservation Corps of Long Beach to construct the Heritage Point Park which will include pedestrian walkways, landscape planting and irrigation, stormwater infiltration systems, bollard lighting, and other site amenities. A subcommittee was formed to assist with meeting the grant objective to include a community educational component and to advise on the historic design elements. Heritage Point Park is expected to be completed in Spring 2022 (Implementation Programs #3 and #25). • The City’s landscape contractors use mulching mowers to eliminate green waste and tree trimming contractors shred trimmings into mulch (Implementation Program #4)
• City trees are trimmed on a set (biannual) schedule (Implementation Program #4).
Policy 1.4: Protect and enhance the natural topography that exists in the City. • See Policy 1.1 above for Heritage Point Park.
Goal 2: Maintain and enhance the City’s unique, cultural, aesthetic, and historic areas.
Policy 2.1: Protect and enhance the State Historical Landmark at the Alamitos Well Site #1.
• Signal Hill Petroleum (SHP) made a presentation to the City Council on June 22, 2021, in recognition of the 100th Anniversary of oil discovery in Signal Hill at Alamitos Well Site #1 (Implementation Program #6).
Policy 2.2: Protect and enhance architectural resources in the City consistent with their significance and importance. Develop ways of encouraging these resources to remain intact as the City grows and develops.
• In 2021, the City approved demolition of two older homes on E. 21st Street on properties owned by the City and identified as properties to be added to the adjacent Signal Hill Park. Both homes ware listed on the City’s Windshield Survey of Historic Resources but had a “D” rating. The survey designated “D” rated homes as homes which were constructed pre-1940, but which either had no significant architecture, or had been substantially altered. Nevertheless, the City conducted inspections of the condition of the homes and did not find they should or could be preserved (Implementation Programs #8, #9, and #10).
Goal 3: Provide and maintain a variety of parks and recreational facilities, both passive and active that will be conveniently located throughout the community.
Policy 3.1: Provide parkland and recreational facilities in neighborhoods of the City currently not served with such facilities.
40 • On February 9, 2021, the City Council was presented with a status update regarding the 2021 PRMP. Upon review, the City directed staff to develop of a companion document identified as the PIP. In 2021, Staff worked on preparing a draft PIP. In 2022, Staff is planning to present the PIP to the City Council (Implementation Programs #9, #10, and #13).
Policy 3.2: Ensure accessibility of local and regional parklands of all types to all users, including the young, the elderly, and the handicapped.
• On January 26, 2021, the City Council approved a Contract Services Agreement with CivicPlus to continue providing online management of the Community Services Department with its CivicRec Recreation Management Software System.
The contract term is 5 years for $5,000 per year (Implementation Programs #13 and #14).
• On February 9, 2021, the City Council authorized Amendment No. 5 to the Contract Services Agreement with Allied Universal Security to provide park security services. The one-year contract is a not-to-exceed amount of $489,816 (Implementation Programs #13 and #14).
• The City Council entered into a Public Works Agreement with Green Giant Landscape, Inc. on October 12, 2021, for the removal of two single-family residences at 1905-1907 E. 21st Street as well as removal of a public restroom adjacent to Spud Field to allow for more greenspace and parking (Implementation Programs #8, #9, and #10).
Policy 3.3: Provide (within economic capabilities) as full a range of activities as possible, including active and passive recreations, biking, walking, jogging, picnicking, and “viewing”.
• The City continued to hold virtual events in early 2021, with protocols set forth by Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (Implementation Program #14). • Virtual Events included:
o Virtual Community Scavenger Hunt – Springtacular on the Hill o Virtual Book Club
o Active Adults +55 – Fairy Garden Kit
• A socially distanced Mayor’s Clean up event was held on April 24, 2021. • Summer in-person events included:
o Summer Concert series
o Movies in the Park
o Celebration of Signal Hill Library’s 2nd Anniversary
• Fall in-person events included:
o Celebration of 9-11 at the Unity Monument
o Halloween Carnival
41 o Day of the Dead Celebration
o Tree Lighting Ceremony
o Cookie decorating
• The Fall Mayor’s Clean-Up event was held on October 30, 2021. About 25 people attended the event in-person. The base camp was the playground in front of the Community Center. Children who volunteered received a free ticket to the Halloween Carnival. All participants were required to wear a face mask, properly covering the nose and mouth areas (Implementation Program #13). • During October, a socially distanced Halloween Scavenger Hunt to find “Ghostly Gus” was also held. There were over 70 participants from the community (Implementation Program #14).
• The City hosted special events throughout the year including:
o Preschool Story Time
o Babies Story Time
o Spanish Story time
o Homework helpers after school, grades K-8
o Drop-in after school club
o Drop-in after school club for tweens and teens
o Pajama movie night
o Theater workshops
o Book Tastings
o Adult Scary Movie Night
o First Friday Book Club
o CPR training
o Sunset Yoga
o Mindfulness and Meditation
• On August 17, 2021, in anticipation of the City’s 100th Anniversary, the Planning Commission selected one member to serve on the Centennial Celebration Committee along with City Council members and Community Services staff (Implementation Program #56).
Policy 3.4: Coordinate with Long Beach Unified School District to ensure the availability of school recreational facilities for public recreation after school hours. • During summer 2021, the City participated in the Summer Food Service Program provided by the California Department of Education and administered by the City of Long Beach. The program provides free lunches Monday through Friday for children. The program ran from June 21 to August 27, 2021 (Implementation Program #18).
• In 2021, the City of Signal Hill Child Care Program continued to assist residents with distance learning while schools were closed as a result from the COVID-19 42 pandemic. Currently, there are 40 students enrolled in the program (Implementation Program #17).
Policy 3.5: Coordinate with the Long Beach Parks and Recreation Department on park and recreation planning to ensure that all users of these facilities in both cities are well served.
Goal 4: Manage the production of economically valuable resources in the City to achieve a balance between current market forces and long-term community values.
Policy 4.1: Improve the interface between oil production activities and urban development, both for existing and new projects.
• The City Council approved a contract with Pascal & Ludwig Constructors for Well No. 8 Demolition and Well No. 10 Construction Project in January 2021 at 6065 Cherry Avenue in Long Beach. It was taken offline due to operational issues and a diminishing structural breakdown. The new Well No. 10 will be constructed at this location too. The total cost for construction of the new well is $3,514,091. The project is anticipated to be complete in early 2022 (Implementation Program #19). • As a part of the City’s annual inspection of properties with an active Conditional Use Permit (CUP), staff inspected SHP’s seven oil well drill sites to confirm that the sites are in good condition in relation to landscaping, fence screening, general maintenance, and equipment (Implementation Program #19). • In 2021, the City issued four leak test permits for 18 wells; 3 methane assessment permits; and 1 well abandonment permit (Implementation Program #19). • The Oil Operator continues regular maintenance and landscape inspections at individual well sites (Implementation Program #19).
Policy 4.2: Encourage the development and production of natural resources that are demanded by the market, and that release land for urban uses at a reasonable and controlled rate.
• See Policy 4.3 below for SHP’s seven consolidated drill sites.
Policy 4.3: Require the restoration and reuse of land no longer necessary or economical for oil-production activities.
• SHP has a CUP for seven consolidated drill sites. The CUP allows oil and gas production at the seven sites, as well as storage, processing, and transport of products. No new oil wells are allowed to be established outside of the drill sites.
In 2021, the City Council approved a two-year extension of CUP 97-03, with an expiration date of July 30, 2023. During the extension, staff will complete the Housing Element update and associated re-zonings and environmental documentation. A long-term CUP will require a CEQA document which is anticipated to be completed in two years (Implementation Program #19). 43 Policy 4.4: Minimize and eliminate where feasible the adverse environmental impact of resource-production activities. Also provide adequate setback and open space where oilproduction activities continue adjacent to urban development. • See Policies 4.1 and 4.3 above for SHP’s seven consolidated drill sites and citywide well inspections.
Goal 5: Protect water quality and conserve water supplies through reducing and eliminating contamination from industrial operations or resource development activities. Cooperate and participate in regional air quality management plans.
Programs, and enforcement measures.
Policy 5.1: Cooperate and participate in regional air quality management plans, programs, and enforcement measures
Policy 5.2: Protect water quality and conserve water supplies through reducing and eliminating contamination from industrial operations or resource development activities.
Cooperate and participate in regional air quality management plans, programs, and enforcement measures.
• City residents reduced water usage to meet the goal of decreasing usage by 12% (Implementation Program #25).
• On November 9, 2021, the City Council adopted a Resolution approving the 2020 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan. Under the Urban Water Management (UWMP) Planning Act, the City is mandated to assess the long-term reliability of its water sources once it is determined to serve more than 3,000 urban connections (Implementation Program #48). • On April 13, 2021, the second reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 2021-03- 1508 was completed, which formally adopted the minimum standards and requirements of the Federal Emergency Management Agency for compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program (Implementation Programs #1 and #4). • On April 13, 2022, the City executed Amendment No. 3 to the Contract Services Agreement with MCM Management Co. to provide continued project management services relating to the Los Cerritos Channel Sub-basin 4 Stormwater Infiltration Project No. 111 (Implementation Program #62) for a new total not-to-exceed contract amount of $1,269,410.
• Vacant Parcel Ordinance annual maintenance inspections were conducted in October 2021 for all 29 sites. All eight City-owned sites, 19 SHP sites, and two independent sites were deemed in compliance during the 2021 rainy season. It is important to stress that this is a dynamic process, and the infiltration devices require regular maintenance (Implementation Program #23). 44 • In 2021, the City issued a total of 19 Corrective Action Notices (NPDES) and 9 Notices of Violations (NOVs) for stormwater violations. Of the total, 26 items were resolved in 2021 (Implementation Program #25).
• The City of Signal Hill has prepared this Annual Self-Monitoring Report as required by the State Water Quality Control Board Order WQ 2014-0194-DWQ and Reporting Program, for discharges from drinking water systems to surface waters in California. There were zero non-compliant drinking water systems discharges in the 2021 reporting year, and no corrective actions were required. (Implementation Program #25).
• The City processed a total of 10 small-site Low Impact Development plans. (Implementation Program #25):
Policy 5.3: Eliminate the unsafe storage, use and transport of hazardous industrial and commercial chemicals and substances through regulation, planning and development review processes.
• The City performed 251 Industrial Waste inspections, issued 21 Industrial Waste permits in 2021. There were 46 NPDES inspections completed (Implementation Program #29).
Policy 5.4: Reduce and eventually eliminate current environmental degradation in all areas of the city. Require restoration of the environment in these areas where it is subsequently degraded.
Goal 6: Ensure and protect the public safety in natural hazard areas.
Policy 6.1: Regulate development to protect the public health, safety, and general welfare where studies indicate hazards due to earthquake faults, unstable soils, or steep slopes.
Where needed, maintain such lands in public or private open space uses. Restrict the proximity of buildings to existing oil production uses or petroleum storage facilities that present a high risk of explosion or fire.
Goal 7: Maintain and provide information to the community on environmental problems, opportunities, progress, and ideas.
Policy 7.1: Disseminate information about the values of alternative energy technology, including use of solar energy in Signal Hill.
• The Sustainable City Committee and staff awarded three residential Sunshine Awards for solar installations and two Kickin’ Gas Awards for installations of Electric Vehicle charging stations. The City delivered yard signs to recipients to publicly recognize them among neighbors (Implementation Program #36).
Policy 7.2: Develop a public information program in conjunction with the oil production industry to explain programs and progress toward improving the resource production/urban development interface.
45 • See Policy 4.3 above for SHP’s seven consolidated drill sites.
Policy 7.3: Provide information to the public on environmental conditions and issues in Signal Hill.
• In March 2021, the City Council received a quarterly report of the Long Beach Animal Care Services (Implementation Program #38).
• On March 17, 2021, the Parks and Recreation Commission held a study session and presented the status update regarding the 2021 Prioritization and Implementation Plan. During the community meeting, park and facility projects were identified and prioritized for the next 10 years (Implementation Program #5). • The 100th Anniversary of oil being discovered in Signal Hill was recognized at the City Council meeting on June 23, 2021. SHP provided a presentation to the City Council and pledged to place a plaque at Alamitos Well No. 1 located next to Discovery Well Park (Implementation Program #19).
• As part of the Heritage Point Park project, commission members and the public were appointed to sit on a subcommittee to assist with meeting the grant objectives and design of the education pieces (Implementation Program #5). • Staff provides monthly updates to the Parks and Recreation Commission on projects related to park development, community events, and other community service programs (Implementation Program #38).
• American University Health Sciences student pharmacists made presentations throughout the year about timely issues like COVID-19 as well as low vision awareness. (Implementation Program #38).
• On June 8, 2021, City Council presented a proclamation to the Outstanding Older American awardee, Pamela Dutch Hughes, in recognition of Older American Recognition Day (Implementation Program #38).
• On July 13, 2021, City Council presented a proclamation to the Parks and Recreation Commission Chair, Tim Anhorn, in recognition of July as Parks Make Life Better! © Month (Implementation Program #38).
• On September 14, 2021, the City Council approved the second reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 2021-08-1526, adopting SB 1383 and Ordinance No. 2021-08-1527, amending the Exclusive Franchise Agreement with EDCO. The changes included adopting new solid waste charges and adding Chapter 8.11 to Title 8 of the Signal Hill Municipal Code relating to organic waste disposal reduction (Implementation Program #29 and #58).
46 SAFETY ELEMENT
The Safety Element was last updated in November 2016. It contains three goals and 31 Implementation Programs. The significant achievements for the year 2021 are below.
Goal 1: PREVENTION
Strive to prevent man-made disasters and minimize the potential for natural disasters to impact the community.
Policy 1.a: Maintain a high level of interjurisdictional cooperation and communication on emergency planning and management.
• Every 30 days since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, the City Council has continued the Proclamation of the Existence of a Local Emergency in Response to COVID-19. The City Council last took action on December 14, 2021, and also directed all City legislative bodies to hold meetings virtually and determined that the meetings are exempt from the Brown Act teleconferencing rules based upon findings in AB 361 (Implementation Programs #1 and #9).
• Due to COVID-19 safety protocols, City Hall, Community Services, and the Library require visitors to wear a mask prior to entering city facilities. These safety regulations minimize contact between the public and staff. Additionally, staff members continued to observe and practice all COVID-19 safety guidelines and regulations of maintaining six feet social distance, wearing face coverings, and utilizing personal sanitization products (e.g., hand sanitation gel, cleaning wipes, disinfectant spray, etc.) (Implementation Programs #2 and #27).
Policy 1.b: Design future development located near water storage facilities and below the slope of the Hill to minimize the possibility of damage from flooding or a water storage facility leak or rupture.
Policy 1.c: Regulate the location, use, storage, and transportation of hazardous and toxic materials and protect the public from these hazards.
• City personnel maintained close contact with all operators of hazardous and potentially hazardous facilities, including Signal Hill Petroleum, the City’s largest petroleum and natural gas operator (Implementation Program #14). • Staff continued to follow the 2016 Safety Element, which includes a map that identifies designated evacuation routes within the City for transportation of hazardous and toxic materials (Implementation Program #19).
Policy 1.d: Maintain, revise, and enforce appropriate standards and codes to minimize seismic and geological risks.
47 Policy 1.e: Encourage the maintenance or improvement of building’s structural integrity to protect residents and preserve communities.
• The City’s Water Department staff conducted inspections of existing water storage facilities on a periodic (or as needed) basis. In 2021, there were no safety violations for water storage facilities within the City (Implementation Program #13).
Policy 1.f: Locate, staff, and equip fire stations to meet established response times.
Response time objectives are to be based on national standards.
Policy 1.g: Regulate the amount and type of new development in areas susceptible to fire hazards.
• Per the California Department of Forestry and Fire Prevention, there are no properties in the City that are located within a Fire Hazard Severity zone.
Policy 1.h: As development and population growth occurs, review service levels and adjust service accordingly to meet the demands of continued growth and development, tourism, and other factors which could change fire-rescue service needs.
Policy 1.i: Maintain communications with the Los Angeles County Fire Department to ensure that the department is continually equipped and trained to respond to fires and other emergencies.
• Due to restrictions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, LA County Fire modified their regular schedule of safety inspections of the five active institutional facilities in the City. The date of inspections and current inventory of institutional facilities includes (Implementation Program #6):
o Cole Vocational Services (2798 Junipero Avenue) was inspected on December 10, 2021, and passed inspection;
o Courtyard Care Center (1880 Dawson Ave) was inspected on April 9, 2021, and passed inspection;
o Dungarvin Adult Day Care (695 E. 27th Street) was inspected on July 7, 2021, and passed inspection;
o Las Brisas Child Care Center (2399 California Avenue, Suite A) was inspected on December 6, 2021 and passed inspection; and o Unlimited Quest & California Mentor (3350 N. Olive Avenue was inspected on April 19, 2021, and passed inspection.
Policy 1.j: Undertake preventive measures both for catastrophic events and for more frequent incidents such as structural fires and localized flooding. • Urgency Ordinance Number 2021-03-1518 was approved by the City Council on March 26, 2021 pertaining to flood damage prevention and flood plain management (Implementation Program #31).
48 • In March 2021, the City Council directed staff to put together a COVID-19 Face Covering Awareness Campaign. The Communications Specialist completed social media posts, e-newsletter messages, bus shelter signs, banners in the parks, and updated its messaging on the City’s website (Implementation Programs #2, #4, #22, #26, #27, and #29).
• The City’s Safety Committee met on a quarterly basis. The Safety Committee performed numerous actions such as testing panic alarms, replenishing emergency supplies, and conducting inspections for all departments to address staff’s safety and to minimize liability exposure (Implementation Program #30). • The Safety Committee planned an earthquake drill for City employees on October 21, 2021, which is the statewide “Great California Shakeout” (Implementation Programs #23 and #30).
• Emergency response personnel maintained open mutual aid agreements with law enforcement agencies across all operational areas, including the Long Beach Police Department, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, and the California Highway Patrol (Implementation Program #9).
Policy 1.k: Regulate development in Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones consistent with levels of acceptable risk. Require the submission of geologic and seismic reports, as well as soils engineering reports, in relation to applications for land development permits whenever seismic or geologic problems are suspected.
• The Building and Safety Division continues to require geological investigation reports for all new and existing projects located within Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones. In Signal Hill, the only earthquake fault zone is the NewportInglewood Fault Zone, which runs diagonally from northwest to southeast across the City. In 2021, no new development was proposed within the Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone; however, geologic investigations were conducted on the four housing sites intended to be rezoned for the 6th Cycle Housing Element Update (Implementation Program #3).
Policy 1.l: Recognize the need for greater protection and safety of critical use facilities through careful site selection and comprehensive geotechnical evaluation that considers seismic and other geotechnical hazards.
Policy 1.m: Update the local Hazard Mitigation Plan every five years and evaluate the mitigation plan annually to determine the effectiveness of programs and to reflect changes in land development or programs that may affect mitigation priorities. • Emergency Operations Center (EOC) staff and emergency response personnel continued to follow the Hazard Mitigation Plan, which was last updated in October 2017. The plan will be updated in January 2023 (Implementation Program #31). 49 Goal 2: PREPARATION
Take necessary steps to allow for effective responses to disasters.
Policy 2.a: Maintain an effective Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) and other emergency preparedness plans and programs, as necessary. • The Signal Hill Police Department utilized social media (e.g., Facebook) as a platform to educate the public by providing tips for keeping their personal property safe, deterring crime, and reporting crime to the dispatch line (Implementation Program #12).
Policy 2.b: Ensure operational readiness of the City’s EOC. • On October 21, 2021, staff at City Hall, SHPD, Public Library, and Community Center participated in the Annual EOC National Shakeout Functional Exercise.
This exercise tested the City’s capabilities on operational communications, onsite incident management, and community preparedness. This year, the City created a real time first response exercise to immediately follow the prompted duck, cover, and hold drill. Four critical infrastructure facilities were selected (SHPD, Public Library, Community Center, and City Hall) to have suffered earthquake damage due to an 8.0 earthquake on the southern segment of the San Andreas Fault. A Signal Hill Police unit, following procedures articulated in the Signal Hill EOP, conducted a windshield survey of the four sites. At each site the responding police unit was met by employees who evacuated to their designated muster site. The designated Safety Coordinators of each critical infrastructure were provided with pre-printed scripts that detailed the structural status and casualty information from each site. That information was relayed via police radio to SHPD Dispatch center.
The radio traffic was monitored by the SHPD’s Operations Lieutenant inside the Emergency Operations Center. The radio information gathered was entered into VEOCI. The details were automatically displayed on an incident map to create a situational awareness tool for the exercise (Implementation Programs #23 and #30).
• Due to COVID-19, all City employees continued to work under L.A. County Health regulations, including masking and distancing. City Hall remained open by appointment only until May 3, 2021 but provided full services online and by phone.
On May 3, 2021, City Hall opened allowing limited walk-in access to maintain distancing. The City Library moved from limited days of service with curbside services only, to limited in-person services May 1 to June 26, 2021, and re-opened to full in-person services with masked and distancing observed as of July 1, 2021 (Implementation Program #30).
• The EOC continues to be located at the Signal Hill Police Station. The alternate EOC is currently located at the Signal Hill City Yard. Due to COVID-19 and civil unrest in 2020, EOC Operations occurred in both locations. Improvements to stand up and continual operations of the EOC were conducted in the first phase of the 50 City’s EOC activation. These modifications have been updated in both VEOCI and EOPs (Implementation Program #9).
Policy 2.c: Adopt, monitor, and maintain service delivery objectives based on time standards for all fire, rescue, and emergency response services. • The City reviewed the Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), which details procedures for requesting emergency medical assistance in a city or area-wide emergency. Medical resources from outside the affected area were trained to respond initially, and the City’s primary medical responder is Engine 60. Engine 60 is a paramedic engine staffed by four personnel: firefighters and paramedic/firefighters. EOP emergency procedures establish aid stations at primary and secondary shelter sites, which are typically staffed by Red Cross volunteers. These sites cannot provide direct medical aid but were designated to serve as a casualty collection points for emergency medical responders to report to and begin treatment operations (Implementation Program #24). • Since early April 2020, the City has adopted the Virtual Meeting Protocol due to COVID-19. Under the City-wide protocol, City meetings have been held virtually via the Zoom teleconference platform (Implementation Program #10). • During the COVID-19 pandemic, the City’s Food Distribution Program expanded to include 31 new families and 45 new senior citizens. Donations were made to the Signal Hill Community Foundation to assist with expanding the Food Distribution Program to families and additional senior citizens. Families received a box of groceries each Tuesday while senior citizens received a box every Thursday. In April, staff coordinated with volunteers to help deliver the boxes of groceries so that participants could stay home during the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health Order (Implementation Program #11).
Policy 2.d: Coordinate with healthcare providers so that the expansion or construction of new healthcare facilities addresses General Plan and community plan goals. • See Policy 2.c (Implementation Program #24).
Policy 2.e: Coordinate with other area jurisdictions and local community groups and businesses to execute a variety of exercises to test operational and emergency plans and identify potential deficiencies in services that would occur during a disaster.
Policy 2.f: Address any deficiencies identified during emergency operations testing exercises by amending the City’s Emergency Operations Plan accordingly.
Goal 3: RECOVERY
Plan for efficient and rapid recovery from disasters.
51 Policy 3.a: To the maximum extent possible, assist in the orderly and efficient reconstruction of Signal Hill following a major disaster.
Policy 3.b: Ensure that disaster recovery efforts involving the disposal of materials adhere to federal, state, and City regulations when feasible.
Policy 3.c: To the extent possible, ensure that appropriate and effective action is taken to safeguard life and property during and immediately after emergencies, and assist in returning their lives and businesses to normal following a major event. 52 NOISE ELEMENT
The Noise Element was adopted in 2010. It has one goal and 20 Implementation Programs. The significant achievements for the year 2021 are below.
Goal 1: Protect the health, safety, and welfare of people living and working within the City from adverse noise impacts.
Policy 1.a: The City will consider the severity of noise exposure in the community planning process to prevent or minimize noise impacts to existing and proposed land uses.
• Two Construction Time Limit notices were sent to nearby property owners to disclose potential noise impacts from construction, the allowable hours for construction activity, and contact information (Implementation Program #3). • Staff maintained membership in the Gateway Cities Council of Governments (COG) and participated in regional reviews of transportation and airport operations (Implementation Program #8).
• The Signal Hill Police Department enforced compliance with the noise standards of the current Motor Vehicle Code (Implementation Program #11). • The City’s building plan check process incorporated noise standards covered in the 2019 California Building Code (Implementation Program #18). • During project review, staff analyzed noise impacts as part of the California Environmental Quality Act process. Following construction, noise impacts are addressed as part of the City’s code enforcement program (Implementation Program #2).
Policy 1.b: Noise-compatible commercial and industrial land uses will be planned along the I-405 freeway and major roadways.
• Public Works staff participated in the COG Technical Advisory Committee for the development and review of preliminary designs and required environmental documents for the expansion of State-owned highways such as the 710 Freeway Widening Project (Implementation Program #9).
Policy 1.c: Noise-sensitive land uses, including residential, transient lodging, hospitals, and long-term care facilities, educational facilities, libraries, churches, and places of public assembly will not be located near major stationary noise sources Policy 1.d: The City will inform those living and working within the City of the effects of noise pollution and will cooperate with all levels of government to reduce or minimize impacts.
53 • Staff communicated in response to noise inquiries (both verbally and in writing) the standards outlined in Signal Hill Municipal Code Chapter 9.16 Noise (Implementation Program #1).
• Four code enforcement cases were initiated for noise-related complaints from excessive dog barking, unpermitted construction, and unruly gatherings at illegal short-term rental (Airbnb) units. (Implementation Program #6).
Policy 1.e: Require noise mitigation to ensure that noise-sensitive land uses are not exposed to noise levels greater than 45 dB in habitable rooms and 65 dB in outdoor living areas.
• City staff-maintained communication with Long Beach Airport personnel regarding airport operations. In 2021, no aircraft-related noise complaints were received (Implementation Program #13).
• 64 well work notification letters were distributed by Signal Hill Petroleum, the City’s largest oil operator, to provide neighbors with information regarding well work. The notifications identify the type of work that will be done, the expected duration of the work, and contact information. Noise mitigation is incorporated into their operations (Implementation Program #20).
Policy 1.f: Where needed, the City will encourage the use of noise mitigation methods that minimize visual impacts and maintain necessary access.
Policy 1.g: The City will consider planning measures such as reduced street widths and traffic calming to reduce vehicular noise impacts on noise-sensitive land uses. 54