Agenda — Solvang City Council, July 8, 2024 (part 2 of 6)

situations requiring an unusual or extraordinary response, including traffic control and management. Implementation of these plans involve coordination with all facilities and personnel of City and County government, along with the jurisdictional resources in the County, to effectively respond to an emergency (City of Solvang 2013a; County of Santa Barbara 2023). Furthermore, development facilitated by the proposed project would be required to comply with road standards and would be reviewed by the Solvang Emergency Services Coordinator and Fire Marshal to ensure new development would not interfere with evacuation routes or impede the effectiveness of evacuation plans. The 2045 General Plan would not introduce new features or policies that would preclude implementation of or alter these plans or procedures. Therefore, the proposed project would not impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan. Therefore, impacts were determined to be less than significant.

The adequacy of emergency access as it pertains to transportation and traffic is discussed on Pages

4.14-19 through 4.14-20 of the DEIR. As stated therein, in addition to existing State and local requirements, the 2045 General Plan proposes policies that would ensure transportation safety and maintain adequate emergency access. These policies include the following:
 Policy MOB-1.5: New Development Access. The City shall require new development to be served by roads of adequate capacity and design standards to provide reasonable access in accordance with City standards.
 Policy MOB-1.6: Rights-of-way Preservation. The City shall reserve and protect adequate rightsof-way to accommodate future roadway widening projects.  Policy MOB-1.9: Safe Speeds. The City shall enforce speed limits and consider lower posted speeds as warranted.

In addition, future development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan would be reviewed by City staff to ensure consistency with all applicable City and State design standards, including standards for project access points, location, and design, sight lines, roadway modifications, provisions for bicycle, pedestrian, and transit connections, and emergency access. As a result, these impacts were determined to be less than significant.

Response 7.3
The commenter notes potential concerns regarding existing conditions on the Alamo Pintado Road, Old Mission Drive, and Nielson’s Shopping Center intersection and the impact on pedestrian and bicycle traffic.

This comment has been noted and passed onto decision makers for further consideration. The DEIR includes a discussion of existing conditions related to individual impact areas specific to CEQA Guidelines Appendix G questions. Individual impact areas include a discussion of the existing conditions which are then compared to the anticipated change induced by the project. While the concerns of the commenter regarding the issues listed in the comment are noted, no specific comments regarding the analysis and conclusions of the EIR were made. No revisions to the Draft EIR are necessary in response to this comment.
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Response 7.4
The commenter recommends continued usage of LOS data for safety.

This comment has been passed on to decision makers for consideration.

Senate Bill (SB) 743 changed transportation impact analysis under the Guidelines for the Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA Guidelines). As a result, "vehicle miles traveled" (VMT) is now used rather than "level of service" (LOS) or similar measures of vehicular capacity or traffic congestion to evaluate a project's transportation impacts under CEQA.

SB 743, which was signed into law in 2013, directed OPR to develop revisions to the CEQA Guidelines by July 1, 2014 to establish new criteria for determining the significance of transportation impacts and define alternative metrics instead of traffic level of service. SB 743 requires the new criteria to “promote the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, the development of multimodal transportation networks, and a diversity of land uses.” It also states that alternative measures of transportation impacts may include “vehicle miles traveled, vehicle miles traveled per capita, automobile trip generation rates, or automobile trips generated.” SB 743 changes the way that public agencies evaluate the transportation impacts of projects under CEQA by recognizing that roadway congestion, while an inconvenience to drivers, is not itself an environmental impact (PRC Section 21099, subdivision [b][2]). The Draft EIR follows SB 743 and the CEQA Guidelines recommendations for impact analysis for traffic.

Response 7.5
The commenter suggests that the City of Solvang request a tribal cultural report from the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History.

Records searches are not required by CEQA for cultural resources or tribal cultural resources and are only included in the environmental review regarding cultural resources once a specific project has been identified. As identified in Section 4.4, Cultural Resources, Mitigation Measure CUL-2 requires that prior to approval of a project carried out under the 2045 General Plan that will involve ground disturbance activities in native or previously undisturbed soils that may include, but are not limited to, pavement removal, potholing, grubbing, tree removal, excavation or grading, an archaeological resources assessment shall be prepared under the supervision of an archaeologist that meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications Standards (PQS) in either prehistoric or historic archaeology. Assessments shall include a California Historical Resources Information System (CHRIS) records search at the Central Coast Information Center (CCIC) and of the Sacred Lands File Search maintained by the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC). 131
CALTRANS DISTRICT 5
50 HIGUERA STREET | SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA 93401-5415
(805) 549-3101 | FAX (805) 549-3329 TTY 711
www.dot.ca.gov
April 15, 2024
SB SR 246
SCH: 2023060448
Rafael Castillo, Planning and Building Manager
City of Solvang
411 2nd Street
Solvang, CA 93463
Via Email: [email protected]
RE: Caltrans Comments on City of Solvang’s Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR)
Dear Rafael Castillo:

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) appreciates the opportunity to review the Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) for the City of Solvang’s General Plan Update and Rezoning. Caltrans offers the following comments:

General Comments:

Caltrans supports local development that is consistent with State planning priorities that promote equity, strengthen the economy, protect the environment, and promote public health and safety. We accomplish this by working with local jurisdictions to achieve a shared vision of how the transportation system should and can accommodate interregional and local travel and development. Projects that support smart growth principles which include improvements to pedestrian, bicycle, and transit infrastructure (or other key Transportation Demand Strategies) are supported by Caltrans and are consistent with our mission, vision, and goals.

As a result of Senate Bill (SB) 743, effective July 2020 Caltrans replaced vehicle level of service (LOS) with vehicle miles traveled (VMT) as the primary metric for identifying transportation impacts from local development. Additionally, the Caltrans Transportation Impact Study Guide (TISG) replaces the Guide for the Preparation of Traffic Impact Studies (Caltrans, 2002) and is for use with local land use projects. The focus now will be on how projects are expected to influence the overall amount of automobile use instead of traffic congestion as a significant impact.

Employing VMT as the metric of transportation impact Statewide will help to promote Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emission reductions consistent with SB 375 and can be achieved through influencing on-the-ground development. Implementation of this change will rely, in part, on local land use decisions to reduce GHG emissions associated with the Letter 8
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Rafael Castillo
April 15, 2024

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transportation sector, both at the project level, and in long-term plans (including general plans, climate action plans, specific plans, and transportation plans) and supporting Sustainable Community Strategies developed under SB 375. In addition to any sitespecific access or safety concerns attributed to future development projects occurring as part of the City’s general plan vision, it is likely that the Caltrans correspondence will focus attention on meeting overall VMT reducing goals.

Caltrans encourages integration of Transportation Demand Strategies (TDM) strategies into long range planning to increase the efficiency of the transportation system by providing options for users other than driving alone, or by shifting travel away from peak periods to help lower VMT. Examples include: locating higher density projects near transit, incorporating Complete Streets and transit, mixed-use developments, mobility hubs, and traffic calming measures to enhance walkability.

Caltrans would like to acknowledge the City of Solvang for the thorough VMT analysis provided in the DEIR and for including policies to help reduce future VMT, including but not limited to, a bicycle master plan, pedestrian and bicycle facility improvements, complete streets guidelines, and transportation demand (TDM) strategies.

Furthermore, SB 1000 (2016) required local jurisdictions to identify communities that are disproportionately burdened by environmental justice issues within their boundaries and address environmental justice in their general plans. This includes developing goals and policies to reduce pollution exposure, reduce unique or compounded health risks, promote safe and sanitary homes, and prioritize the needs of disadvantaged communities, among other focus areas. Caltrans appreciates the discussion around environmental justice and supports the policies aimed at addressing equity, especially as they relate to transit mobility and accessibility, as put forth in the DEIR.

To further support complete streets and active transportation enhancements, the Caltrans District 5 Active Transportation Plan is now available. The plan identifies bicycle and pedestrian needs on, across, and parallel to the State Highway System (SHS) throughout California’s Central Coast. Partnership with transportation stakeholders and the public are critical to supporting a safe transportation network and encouraging healthy communities. The main deliverable of the plan is the prioritized list of Location Based Needs (LBN’s) (available here). This prioritized list could be utilized to identify needs for the General Plan Update.

Specific Comments:

For analyzing freight infrastructure, Caltrans suggests referring to the California Central Coast Sustainable Freight Study, rather than the Commercial Flows Study. This new Study is expected to be completed in July 2024. The California Freight Mobility Plan can also be referenced in identifying the City’s freight needs.
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Rafael Castillo
April 15, 2024

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Caltrans requests to continue to be included in any future public noticing regarding this project to allow us to prepare for and participate in the public process.

We look forward to continued coordination with the City of Solvang on this effort. Should you have any questions regarding this letter, or need further clarification on items discussed above, please contact me at (805) 903-3395 or [email protected].

Sincerely,
Shelby Fredrick
Local Development Review Coordinator
Caltrans, District 5
Cc:

State Clearinghouse
Veronica Lezama, Caltrans D5 Branch Chief for Regional Planning and Local Development Review
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Letter 8
COMMENTER: Shelby Frederick, Local Development Review Coordinator at Caltrans District 5 DATE: April 15, 2024
Response 8.1
The commenter expresses appreciation to review the DEIR.

This comment is noted.

Response 8.2
The commenter notes in a general comment the District’s obligation to review the project and explains the shift from LOS to VMT. The commenter acknowledges the City of Solvang’s VMT analysis.

This comment is noted.

Response 8.3
The commenter notes the requirement to discuss environmental justice and acknowledges the City of Solvang’s inclusion of this.

This comment is noted.

Response 8.4
The commenter notes the District’s Active Transportation Plan as a resource.

This comment is noted. The City’s Transportation Plan is in compliance with Caltrans District 5 requirements, and Transportation Demand Management programs in the Draft 2045 General Plan include the promotion of active transportation.

Response 8.5
The commenter suggests referring to the California Central Coast Sustainable Freight Study rather Commercial Flows Study expected to be completed in July 2024.

This comment has been noted. Please note that the baseline for analysis is typically set at the time the NOP is published, consistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15125. The NOP for this DEIR was published on June 15, 2023. Therefore, no revisions to the EIR are necessary.

Response 8.6
The commenter concludes their comment letter and expressed gratitude for continued coordination with the District.

This comment is noted.
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Comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) for the Update of the Solvang General Plan
By Lansing Duncan 4/14/24
Executive Summary
The very first sentence and following paragraph of the Project Description points out a problem that undermines the accuracy of the DEIR in numerous areas. That first sentence claims that the “EIR has been prepared to examine the potential environmental effects of the 2045 General Plan.” But the “Project” analyzed does not include the Housing Element which was separated and adopted in 2023.

Because the Housing Element is not part of the “Project” it appears that the direction for Sites B, C, and D found within the General Plan is not included in the analysis. As a result, numerous statements that claim to compare the impacts of Alternative scenarios to those of the General Plan found on pages ES-5, ES-6, ES7 and throughout the Alternatives chapter are inaccurate and deceptive.

On page ES-3 the text which attempts to describe what is included within the General Plan for Site C is confusing. What does “The City Council authorized the review of the lower half of the site” mean? This text needs to be clarified and the paragraphs describing Sites B, C, and D should all make clear whether the direction found in the General Plan is part of the “project” analyzed and compared to other “Alternatives”.

The third paragraph under Site C on page ES-3 introduces the different plan that the developer has requested be analyzed within the EIR. In order to avoid confusion with the “Alternatives” analyzed by the DEIR this plan should be clearly and consistently named differently. I suggest “Developer’s Alternate Plan (DAP)” and will use that nomenclature in these comments.

The DAP is not consistent with the General Plan and should not be the basic scenario analyzed by the DEIR. The DAP is inherently at odds with the internal consistency of the General Plan in numerous different areas. The Environmental Review for the update attempts a holistic comprehensive analysis of the community’s vision for the future and it should not be based on this poison pill.

But if the DAP is the basic scenario analyzed that should be clearly stated. 1 Letter 9
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Adding to that confusion is the inclusion of “Alternative” scenarios for the Old Lumberyard site and Site C by two different developers. Judging by the discussion of Alternatives found on pages ES-5, ES-6, E-7 and in the Alternatives section it appears that both scenarios are substituted for the direction found in the 2045 General Plan where the DEIR analyzes the impacts of the “Project”.

For example, on page ES-5, where “Alternative 2 (No Old Lumberyard Project)” is discussed, it is claimed that Alternative 2 “would involve implementation of the 2045 General Plan “, suggesting that the default “Project” itself analyzed in the DEIR, does not involve the direction found in the 2045 General Plan. The analysis goes on to say that the current zoning (DR-20) would allow “a total of 50 units and 120 new residents” but later on it is stated that “Alternative 2 would not involve high-density development” on page ES-6. But development at a density of 20 units per acre is considered “high-density”. The sentence also claims that lack of “high-density development on the Old Lumberyard site” would fulfill the objectives of “improving mobility, and supporting diverse housing options, to a lesser extent than the 2045 General Plan.”
This is nonsense on top of nonsense. The comparison is not with the direction found in the 2045 General Plan, the comparison is with the developer’s proposed TRC project with miniscule housing units and a hotel. How does confining the housing to a small proportion of the site support diverse housing options. It constrains housing options to miniscule units. Claiming that building the housing and hotel project and determining it improves mobility, may be making lemonade out of lemons, but it does not speak to the additional traffic added to Mission Drive by patrons of the hotel.

There is also no reason why Alternative 2 “would result in a decreased emphasis on the provision of housing units” when the majority of the site would be used for housing. How does Alternative 2 result in “an increase in VMT per capita” and “less strategic land-use planning”? Does the provision of 1 less residential unit somehow warp VMT analysis in a meaningful manner? It is not clear how not adding a hotel to the site, which is located on a roadway subject to chronic congestion, could worsen transportation in Solvang.

The discussion of Alternative 3 on page ES-6 also contains misinformation.

Once again it is claimed that not building the Developer’s Alternate Project (DAP) will result in “implementation of the 2045 General Plan”. In the real world this is true, but in the DEIR it is not, because the “project” does not include the Housing 4 5
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Element’s direction for Site C. The direction for Site C included in the actual 2045 General Plan would not exclude “the Alamo Pintado site as an area of potential growth.” The Site C discussion on page ES-3 says that “the lower half of the site” would have a land use designation of DR-20 with “an estimated buildout of 40-50 units” with “the other half of the site designated 20-R-1 or Open Space as noted in the adopted housing Element”. Since the lower half was previously designated 20- R-1 also, the 2045 General Plan clearly identifies “the Alamo Pintado site as an area of potential growth”. The lower half is proposed to be developed at a density almost ten times what was previously allowed.

Later the discussion claims that without the DAP “housing could still be built on the Alamo Pintado Project site, for a total of 2 units and 5 new residents.” The misdirected computations that follow are like “the blind leading the blind.” Nevertheless, the DEIR can’t fail to correctly assert that not building the DAP “would result in fewer impacts to all environmental issue areas” before pointing out certain exceptions, land use and planning, and transportation. If the DAP were not built and that is compared to the previous General Plan direction for the site, land use and planning impacts probably would be “comparable.” But if not building the DAP were actually compared to the direction in the Housing Element found in the 2045 General Plan, it is clear that the direction in the Housing Element results in better land use and planning and thus a reduced impact.

It is claimed that “..Alternative 3 would not involve high-density development on the Alamo Pintado site..” but the Housing Element’s direction would allow highdensity development on the lower half of the site, and would support “strategic land uses” and “diverse housing options.” But the DEIR claims otherwise because it is not actually looking at the 2045 General Plan.

Perhaps most confounding however, is the claim that not building the 109 unit DAP will actually result in greater transportation impacts. This is presumably based on a flawed VMT analysis that flies in the face of real-world facts. It is “gaslighting,” an attempt to persuade Solvang and Valley residents that what they see with their own eyes and experience in their own lives is misinformation, when in fact, it is the VMT analysis that is flawed. Despite it’s importance to Solvang’s circulation system, Alamo Pintado Road is not included in the VMT modeling.

It is clear that the traffic from the DAP will add to the gridlock that regularly develops at the intersection of Old Mission Drive and Alamo Pintado Road. This intersection with a four-way stop, serves Solvang’s two major shopping centers, 6 (cont.)
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two major supermarkets, two banks, two drug stores and the headquarters of the Forest Service for Los Padres National Forest.

The intersection is routinely affected by the congestion at Mission Drive and Alamo Pintado as traffic attempts to go through Solvang at rush hour, lunch time, when a shift at the Casino changes, when the high-school gets out, Farmer’s Market days and busy holidays. Currently, vehicles fill the turn lanes between Mission Drive and Old Mission Drive, backing into the intersection that serves the two shopping centers, causing gridlock. Residents are rightly concerned that adding a thousand vehicle trips per day will make the situation even worse.

This is a very important health and safety concern for numerous reasons. Most residents on Old Mission Drive have only a single entry and exit, through that intersection. And the same will be true for the hundreds of residents in the proposed Alamo Pintado Project. Emergency traffic (County Sheriff, Fire Department, and Ambulance Service) heading towards Ballard and Los Olivos typically use this intersection, as do ambulances going to nearby Cottage Hospital.

More congestion at this intersection will adversely affect the response time for these first responders.

Theoretical communitywide VMT analysis that ignores the functionality of specific roadways and intersections that are critical to Solvang’s circulation system puts our entire community at risk.

The DEIR’s discussion of Alternative 4 contains various erroneous buildout numbers because the updated Housing Element’s direction is not incorporated into the analysis. However, the overriding analysis that “Alternative 4 would fulfill Project Objectives of fostering a distinct community character, promoting economic diversity and sustainability, providing adequate facilities, conserving open space, and ensuring public safety” is definitely correct.

But the following sentence that claims other objectives would be fulfilled to a lesser extent is based on flawed logic because it is claimed “...Alternative 4 would not involve high-density development on the Old Lumberyard and Alamo Pintado sites...” In both cases, high-density development could occur on the sites if the developer’s alternative projects were not developed. The existing DR-20 zoning on the Old Lumberyard site would allow for high-density, and the direction of the updated Housing Element on Site C would allow for high-density. 10 (cont.)
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The DEIR is correct when it states that Alternative 4 (Neither Project Implemented) is the “Environmentally Superior Alternative” for the numerous reasons listed. But the suggestion that transportation impacts would be greater without the development of a hotel or 109 units is hogwash, for the reasons cited above.

These comments are focused on the discussion found within the Executive Summary but apply equally to the specific areas of the DEIR where these issues are discussed in more detail, such as the Project Description, Transportation, and Alternatives, etc..

Environmental Review is supposed to inform decision-making so that impacts can be avoided or mitigated. The repeated references to the 2045 General Plan that do not reflect the direction of the updated Housing Element result in a document that is full of errors and misinformation. The document should be revised to include the direction of the Housing Element. The text should be rewritten to reflect that direction accurately and be internally consistent. It should then be recirculated so the public and decision-makers can be 100% confident in the content and analysis.

Thank you for your consideration,
Lansing Duncan
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Letter 9
COMMENTER: Lansing Duncan
DATE: April 14, 2024
Response 9.1
The commenter notes that the DEIR does not include the Housing Element in its analysis of the General Plan which may lead to inaccurate comparisons between alternative scenarios and General Plan impacts.

Please see Response 2.2 for clarification regarding Site C’s inclusion in the Housing Element as a vacant site with proposed rezoning.

Response 9.2
The commenter requests clarification on what is included within the General Plan for Site C and whether Site C, B, and D are part of the project.

Please see Response 6.3.

Response 9.3
The commenter suggests renaming the plan proposed by the developer to "Developer’s Alternate Plan (DAP)" to distinguish it from the alternatives analyzed in the Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR). The commenter notes that the DAP is not consistent with the General Plan and should not be the primary scenario analyzed in the DEIR, as it contradicts the community's vision for the future.

The Developer’s Alternate Plan is analyzed in the DEIR because it provides the most conservative analysis for decision makers and the public to understand the greatest possible environmental impact of all scenarios for the 2045 General Plan. In Section 6, Alternatives, Alternative 3 and Alternative 4 omit the Developer’s Alternate Plan to provide environmental analysis for a 2045 General Plan scenario in which the Developer’s Alternate Plan is not included.

Response 9.4
The commenter notes the confusion caused by analyzing alternative scenarios for the Old Lumberyard site and Site C by different developers in the Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR).

The commenter also notes that the comparison with the 2045 General Plan is inaccurate and misleading, particularly regarding housing density and mobility improvements. The comment suggests that the analysis does not adequately address the impact of proposed developments on traffic and housing options.

The proposed project (2045 General Plan) analyzed in the DEIR includes the applicant-proposed projects on the Old Lumberyard and Alamo Pintado sites because this scenario provides the most conservative scenario to assess the greatest possible environmental impacts. Alternatives 2, 3 and 4 provide alternative analysis for City decision makers to consider alternatives without implementing the applicant-proposed project, or revisions to land use proposed in the update to the General Plan.

However, the following revision is made on Page ES-6 for clarification (changes shown in strikeout/underline):
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Alternative 2 would fulfill Project Objectives of fostering a distinct community character, promoting economic diversity and sustainability, providing adequate facilities, conserving open space, and ensuring public safety. As Alternative 2 would not involve high-density the development of new hotel buildings on the Old Lumberyard site, it would fulfill Project Objectives of supporting strategic land uses, and improving mobility, and supporting diverse housing options, to a lesser extent than the 2045 General Plan. Alternative 2 would fulfill these Project Objectives to a lesser extent as the exclusion of the Old Lumberyard site would result in a decreased emphasis on the provision of housing units, an increase in VMT per capita, and less strategic land use decision-making, when compared to the 2045 General Plan This revision is made for clarification. It does not result in any changes to the conclusions of the environmental impact analysis in the Draft EIR.

Response 9.5
The commenter questions the logic behind claims that Alternative 2 would decrease housing provision and increase vehicle miles traveled (VMT) per capita, particularly when the majority of the site would still be used for housing. The commenter also challenges the assertion that not adding a hotel would worsen transportation in Solvang, especially considering the chronic congestion on the roadway.

Transportation-related impacts of Alternative 2 are discussed on Page 6-18 of the DEIR. As stated therein, reduced density, which would occur if the Old Lumberyard project is not approved (Alternative 2), would result in visitors and residents of Solvang traveling greater lengths to reach destinations, as the Old Lumberyard site is located in close proximity to several commercial areas to which visitors and residents would be expected to travel. Based on the Traffic Analysis Data Memorandum prepared by DKS Associates in December 2023 (Appendix G), Alternative 2 would result in a VMT per capita of 22.19 and a VMT per employee of 21.54. These VMT values are greater than the VMT per capita and VMT per employee of Solvang with implementation of the 2045 General Plan, which would be 22.18 and 21.52, respectively. Therefore, Alternative 2 would have greater impacts to transportation, including VMT, and these impacts would be significant and unavoidable, similar to the proposed project
Response 9.6
The commenter notes there is a discrepancy in the discussion of Alternative 3. The comment points out that not building the developer-proposed project at Site C would indeed align with the implementation of the 2045 General Plan in the real world, but not in the DEIR due to its exclusion of the Housing Element’s direction for Site C. It emphasizes that the lower half of the site, designated for higher density development in the DEIR, was previously identified as an area of potential growth in the 2045 General Plan, contradicting the DEIR's claims.

Please see Response 2.2 for clarification regarding Site C’s inclusion in the Housing Element as a vacant site with proposed rezoning.

Response 9.7
The commenter highlights the DEIR's acknowledgment that not building the DAP would result in fewer impacts to environmental issues. It suggests that comparing not building the DAP to the direction in the Housing Element of the 2045 General Plan would likely lead to better land use and planning outcomes and reduced impacts.
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Please see Response 2.2 for clarification regarding Site C’s inclusion in the Housing Element as a vacant site with proposed rezoning.

Response 9.8
The commenter highlights a discrepancy between the DEIR's claim about Alternative 3 not involving high-density development on the Alamo Pintado site and the Housing Element's allowance for such development, suggesting the DEIR's analysis does not accurately reflect the 2045 General Plan.

Please see Response 2.2 for clarification regarding Site C’s inclusion in the Housing Element as a vacant site with proposed rezoning. As stated on Page 6-19 of the DEIR, the project site is currently zoned Residential, 20,000 square feet (20-R-1), which allows for single-family residential development, and has a General Plan land use designation of Low/Medium Residential (2 dwelling units per acre).

Response 9.9
The commenter questions the assertion that not constructing the 109-unit DAP would lead to increased transportation impacts, suggesting it contradicts real-world observations and implies flawed VMT analysis, and suggests Alamo Pintado Road was excluded from the modeling.

Refer to Response 5.1 regarding the inclusion of Alamo Pintado Road in the traffic analysis.

Transportation impacts related to not constructing the 109-unit project on Site C are discussed on

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proposed high-density residential land use on the Alamo Pintado site would not be implemented.

This reduced density would result in residents of Solvang traveling greater lengths to reach destinations, as the Alamo Pintado site is located in close proximity to several commercial areas to which residents would be expected to travel.

Response 9.10
The commenter highlights concerns about traffic congestion at the intersection of Old Mission Drive and Alamo Pintado Road, noting its role in serving major shopping centers and emergency services.

It emphasizes the potential safety hazards and adverse impacts on response times for first responders due to increased congestion from the proposed Alamo Pintado Project.

Please refer to Response 5.3 regarding emergency access and safety.

Response 9.11
The commenter points out potential errors in the buildout numbers for Alternative 4 due to the lack of incorporation of the updated Housing Element's direction in the analysis. The commenter acknowledges the correctness of the analysis stating that Alternative 4 would fulfill project objectives related to community character, economic diversity, sustainability, facilities, open space conservation, and public safety.

Please see Response 2.2 for clarification regarding Site C’s inclusion in the Housing Element as a vacant site with proposed rezoning.
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Response 9.12
The commenter states the opinion that the lesser fulfillment of objectives in Alternative 4 is flawed because it states that high-density development wouldn't occur on certain sites, despite the possibility under existing zoning and the updated Housing Element's direction.

Please see Response 6.3 for clarification regarding Site C’s inclusion in the Housing Element as a vacant site with proposed rezoning.

As stated on Page 6-11, assuming the Old Lumberyard site would be developed under existing conditions, Alternative 2 would result in 2 fewer residents and 1 fewer housing unit in Solvang in 2045.

However, the following revision is made on Page 6-37 for clarification (changes shown in strikeout/underline):

Alternative 4 would fulfill Project Objectives of fostering a distinct community character, promoting economic diversity and sustainability, providing adequate facilities, conserving open space, and ensuring public safety. As Alternative 4 would not involve high-density development on the Old Lumberyard and Alamo Pintado sites, it would fulfill Project Objectives of supporting strategic land uses, improving mobility, and supporting diverse housing options, to a lesser extent than the 2045 General Plan. Alternative 4 would fulfill these Project Objectives to a lesser extent as the exclusion of the Old Lumberyard and Alamo Pintado sites would result in a decreased emphasis on the provision of housing units, an increase in VMT per capita, and less strategic land use decision-making, when compared to the 2045 General Plan. However, Alternative 4 would fulfill the Project Objective of conserving open space to a greater extent than the 2045 General Plan, as the Alamo Pintado site is currently vacant and consists of a grassy field with mature trees that would be preserved.

This revision is made for clarification. It does not result in any changes to the conclusions in the Draft EIR.

Response 9.13
The commenter agrees that alternative 4 is environmentally superior but disagrees with the transportation analysis.

Transportation impacts regarding Alternative 4 are discussed on page 6-9 and 6-10 of the DEIR. As described therein, the No Project Alternative would have a reduced buildout potential compared to the 2045 General Plan and therefore would generate less vehicle trips; however, the No Project Alternative would not implement the 2045 General Plan policies and implementation actions to reduce VMT. Unlike the 2045 General Plan, the No Project Alternative would not place an emphasis on mixed-use and infill development in Solvang. Without policies to guide mixed-use and infill development, it is anticipated that regional VMT would increase as residents and employees commute at longer distances. Based on the Traffic Analysis Data Memorandum prepared by DKS Associates in December 2023 (Appendix G), the No Project Alternative would result in a VMT per capita of 22.49 and a VMT per employee of 22.14. These VMT values are greater than the VMT per capita and VMT per employee of Solvang with implementation of the 2045 General Plan, which would be 22.18 and 21.52, respectively. Therefore, the No Project Alternative would have greater impacts on transportation, including VMT, and these impacts would remain significant and unavoidable, similar to the proposed project.
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Response 9.14
The commenter notes that these comments have mainly been regarding the executive summary but should be reflected across the entire DEIR.

This comment has been noted.

Response 9.15
The commenter emphasizes the importance of accurate information in Environmental Review to guide decision-making, highlighting errors stemming from outdated references to the 2045 General Plan instead of the updated Housing Element, suggesting a revision and recirculation for confidence in the analysis.

Please see Response 6.3 for clarification regarding Site C’s inclusion in the Housing Element as a vacant site with proposed rezoning.
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Letter 10
From: Mcroberts, Ingrid@DOT <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, April 15, 2024 2:19 PM
To: General Plan <[email protected]>
Subject: Solvang Comprehensive General Plan Update and Rezoning Project-SCH 2023060448 146
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Hello Mr. Castillo: The California Department of Transportation, Caltrans Aeronautics has reviewed the draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the Solvang Comprehensive General Plan Update sophospsmartbannerend
Hello Mr. Castillo:

The California Department of Transportation, Caltrans Aeronautics has reviewed the draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the Solvang Comprehensive General Plan Update and Rezoning Project, State Clearinghouse No. 2023060448. One of the goals of the California Department of Transportation, Aeronautics Program, is to assist cities, counties, and Airport Land Use Commissions (ALUC) or their equivalent, to understand and comply with the State Aeronautics Act pursuant to the California Public Utilities Code (PUC) Section 21001 et seq. Caltrans encourages collaboration with our partners in the planning process and thanks you for including the Aeronautics Program in the review of the draft EIR.

The Aeronautics Program commends the City of Solvang on the preparation of the EIR and the continued collaboration with aviation stakeholders on regional aviation planning issues.

Thank you,
Ingrid McRoberts
Office of Aviation Planning
Caltrans Aeronautics Program
Phone: (805) 835-6555
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Letter 10
COMMENTER: Ingrid McRoberts, Caltrans Aeronautics Program DATE: April 15, 2024
Response 10.1
The commenter notes that they have reviewed the DEIR and expresses appreciation for the current and future continued collaboration with the District.

This comment is noted.
148
From: Stephen Marn <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, April 13, 2024 6:49 PM
To: Rafael Casllo <[email protected]>; [email protected]; Planning Dept Public List <[email protected]>; General Plan <[email protected]> Subject: Comments on General Plan Dra EIR
Letter 11
149
Please accept the following comments on the draft Solvang General Plan Environmental Impact Review.

1. I strongly agree with the draft EIR conclusion that
Alternative # 4 (as it relates to no development of DEVELOPER'S ALTERNATE plan at Alamo Pintado and Old Mission Drive on Site C) is the environmentally preferred alternative.

2. Thr EIR drew conclusions that there was adequate City water and sewer capacity at the proposed rezoned high density building sites but said they did not analyze traffic issues because there were no specific building project applications and proposals. This is faulty logic. The conclusions as to water and sewer must have properly been based on assumptions of maximum allowed occupancy at 20 units per acre and average consumption data. Likewise, traffic could and should have been analyzed on the basis of that same maximum occupancy and area traffic data.

3. In addition, added traffic analyses should be
based on cumulative figures from ALL existing development, including new residences recently constructed on Old Mission Drive; approved development such as Sansum Clinic on Rte 246, the approved 32 unit development at Alamo Pintado and Village Lane, and the new hotel at Allisal Rd and Mission Drive; as well as the proposed100 unit development for Alamo Pintado and Old Mission Drive; and the potential high density development now allowed by rezoning on Allisal road and the corner of Alamo Pintado and Viborg. It appears the EIR did not make a complete evaluation based on ALL this cumulative added existing and likely traffic.

4. The EIR did not adequately evaluate the overflow,
flooding and pollution potential from developing the steep Site C ALTERNATE proposal, with water and silt likely overflowing into Alamo Pintado Creek and ultimately the Santa Ynez River.

5. The draft EIR needs more specific analysis ofl the
destruction of a designated view shed, open space and habitat in one of the only places where diverse wildlife exist within the city limits of Solvang. The EIR simply dismisses the wildlife subject by saying that they did not observe certain species on Site C and then omitting them from listings. This ommission, included amazingly, the herds of deer that routinely roam Site C, together with species that are primarily nocturnal.

Nor did the EIR address the effect of loss of open habitat and new high density buildings and traffic on the adjacent Mission Oaks land where over 30 acres has been set aside as open space, currently serving as a safe habitat for many wildlife species, a habitat that is unique to Solvang.

Thank you.

Stephen C. Martin
698 Hillside Drive
1 2
3 4
5 150
Solvang, CA 93463
[email protected]
Stephen C. Martin
151
Letter 11
COMMENTER: Stephen Martin
DATE: April 13, 2024
Response 11.1
The commenter expresses agreement with the DEIR conclusion that Alternative 4 would be the environmentally superior option.

This comment has been noted.

Response 11.2
The commenter states the opinion that traffic, water and sewer analysis should have assumed maximum allowed occupancy of 20 units per acre.

Water and sewer impacts are addressed in Section 4.16, Utilities and Service Systems, of the DEIR.

As described on Page 4.16-13 water demand is calculated in the DEIR using the assumed maximum growth facilitated by the 2045 General Plan of up to 1,398 people. Wastewater generation is calculated based on the anticipated water demand; therefore, wastewater generation is also calculated in the DEIR using the assumed maximum growth facilitated by the 2045 General Plan.

Regarding traffic, the commenter does not make a specific reference within the DEIR, however, the Traffic Analysis Memo included as Appendix G includes analysis of all project scenarios and alternatives including the full buildout of the high-density rezone sites.

Response 11.3
The commenter states the opinion that cumulative projects were not adequately considered in the traffic analyses.

Cumulative transportation and traffic impacts are discussed on Page 4.14-20 of the DEIR. As stated therein, regional cumulative impacts consider the City-wide impacts together with similar impacts of reasonably anticipated regional projects/programs. Compliance with applicable regulations and oversight, including Caltrans design guidelines, City design guidelines, and Santa Barbara County Fire Department standards would effectively reduce the potential for individual projects to create a cumulative transportation hazard or emergency access impacts within Solvang, as well as Santa Barbara County. Therefore, cumulative impacts related to transportation hazards and emergency access were determined to be less than significant and no additional analysis or changes to the Draft EIR are required.

Response 11.4
The commenter states the opinion that the DEIR did not adequately evaluate the potential for the alternative development at Site C to overflow, flood, and or discharge pollution into the Alamo Pintado Creek/Santa Ynez River.

Impacts related to flooding and pollutant discharge into local waters are discussed in Section 4.9, Hydrology and Water Quality. As stated therein, operation of future development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan would be required to comply with the provisions of California’s Phase II MS4 Permit. Section 14-3 of the City’s Municipal Code requires any owner or person developing real 152
property to integrate post-construction requirements that would control the volume, rate, and potential pollutant load of runoff. In addition, projects that create or replace greater than or equal to 2,500 square feet of impervious surface must implement post-construction BMPs and submit a Stormwater Control Plan listing applicable BMPs to the City for review and approval. Pursuant to the Municipal Code, post construction requirements must comply with the RWQCB Central Coast Region Resolution No. R3-2013-0032. In addition, the Municipal Code requires industrial and commercial facilities and other new development, as applicable, to minimize the discharge of pollutants through the implementation of BMPs that are consistent with the CASQA BMP Handbooks or equivalent, such as the County’s Stormwater Technical Guide for Low Impact Development.

The City enforces project-specific operational BMP requirements by incorporating these as conditions of approval into land use entitlements and building permits specific to a project, and requires applicants to ensure the proper long-term operation and maintenance of selected BMPs.

Any future development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan that would be categorized under Standard Industrial Classification codes would be subject to the Industrial General Permit, which requires development of a site-specific operational SWPPP. Implementation of the operational SWPPP would reduce the risk of water degradation on-site and off-site from soil erosion and other pollutants related to project operation, because an operational SWPPP requires the design, installation, and maintenance of post-construction stormwater controls. The operational SWPPP identifies the site-specific sources of pollutants and describes the BMPs implemented at the facility to prevent dry weather runoff and to reduce pollutants in storm water discharges. Adherence to permit and Municipal Code requirements would minimize impacts related to water quality and ensure development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan would not violate water quality standards or waste discharge requirements or otherwise substantially degrade surface or groundwater quality.

Impacts related to water quality were determined be less than significant and no additional analysis or changes to the Draft EIR are required.

Construction facilitated by the 2045 General Plan would alter the existing drainage patterns of individual project sites which has the potential to cause erosion and flooding, exceed stormwater drainage capacity, provide additional sources of polluted runoff, or alter flood flows. Projects subject to the NPDES Construction General Permit would be required to prepare a SWPPP which includes project-specific BMPs to control erosion, sediment release, and otherwise reduce the potential for discharge of pollutants from construction into stormwater. Projects not subject to the NPDES Construction General Permit would be required to implement a project-specific Erosion and Sediment Control Plan which must include BMPs to minimize adverse impacts associated with the alteration of drainage patterns. As described in Impact HYD-4 of the DEIR, Chapter 13 of the City’s Municipal Code requires flood control measures to be implemented during construction for projects in flood hazard areas, including development to be elevated above the base flood elevation.

Runoff during operation of development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan would be regulated under the Phase II MS4 Permit. Projects that create or replace greater than or equal to 2,500 square feet of impervious surface must implement post-construction BMPs and submit a Stormwater Control Plan listing applicable BMPs to the City for review and approval. Pursuant to the Municipal Code, post construction requirements must comply with the RWQCB Central Coast Region Resolution No. R3-2013-0032. Compliance with existing regulations would ensure development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan would not substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of a site or area such that substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-site, flooding on- or off-site, exceedance of the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provision of additional sources of polluted runoff, or impediment or redirection of flood flows would occur. 153
Therefore, impacts were determined to be less than significant and no additional analysis or changes to the Draft EIR are required.

Response 11.5
The commenter states the opinion that additional analysis of the destruction of designated viewsheds, open space, and wildlife habitat is needed. The commenter states that the analysis omits species that are not specifically named by the DEIR. The commenter also expresses concerns regarding the Mission Oaks open space adjacent to Site C.

Regarding viewsheds, impacts related to scenic vistas are discussed on pages 4.1-5 through 4.1-7 of the DEIR. As stated therein, one of the primary objectives of the 2045 General Plan is to conserve and protect open space to preserve the scenic beauty of Solvang’s natural surroundings. Policies in the proposed Environment and Sustainability Element would encourage the protection of scenic vistas. Goal ENV-2 aims to protect important scenic resources within the Planning Area; this goal would be implemented through Policy ENV-2.1, which requires protection of scenic views of rolling hillsides and agricultural lands; Policy ENV-2.3, which requires protection of scenic qualities of transportation corridors; and Policy ENV-2.4, which requires preservation of the scenic character of the greenbelts and buffers surrounding Solvang. These policies would ensure development would not adversely affect scenic vistas throughout Solvang.

Several policies in the 2045 General Plan’s Community Design Element are intended to preserve specific vistas of the hillsides that surround Solvang including Policy CD-1.34 which ensures that new development on sites with high visibility, such as on hillsides or in the highway corridors, is designed to minimize adverse visual impact; Policy CD-1.38 which requires new development on major ridge lines, canyon edges, and hilltops to be designed and constructed to blend into the natural environment without creating adverse visual impacts; Policy CD-1.41 which hillside residential development projects to use plant materials which screen structures and present an appearance that integrates residences with the natural appearance of the area; and Policy CD-2.40 which requires that hillside properties be designed to minimize formal landscape planting and hardscapes and locate them close to the residence, follow the natural topography, and preserve native trees, native plant and wildlife habitats, and migration corridors.

As stated on Page 4.1-6 of the DEIR, the abovementioned 2045 General Plan goals and policies pertaining to protection of scenic vistas and hillside vistas would apply to development at the Alamo Pintado site and would minimize the potential for this development to adversely affect scenic vistas in Solvang. Therefore, the proposed project’s impact on scenic vistas was determined to be less than significant, and no additional analysis or changes to the Draft EIR are required.

Regarding wildlife species and wildlife habitat, pursuant to Section 15380 of the CEQA Guidelines, the DEIR evaluates the potential for the project to have a substantial adverse effect either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Analysis of other wildlife that does not meet this criteria is not required by CEQA. The DEIR also evaluates the project’s potential impacts on established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors. Impacts to these biological resources are discussed in Section 4.3, Biological Resources, of the DEIR. As stated therein, 2045 General Plan policies would minimize impacts to protected biological resources and provide open space that preserves habitat that may support special-status species and sensitive habitats. Mitigation Measures BIO-1 through BIO-3 are included in the DEIR to reduce potential impacts to less than significant levels, and no additional analysis or changes to the Draft EIR are required. 154
Regarding the commenter’s concern about open space adjacent to Site C, areas adjacent to Site C currently have designated land uses for high-density residential, professional office, and retail commercial. None of the lots adjacent to Site C have an existing land use designation of open space under the currently adopted General Plan. No additional analysis or changes to the Draft EIR are required.
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Errata to the Draft EIR
Chapter 3 presents specific changes to the text of the Draft EIR that are being made in response to comments received or to make corrections. In no case do these revisions result in a greater number of impacts or impacts of a substantially greater severity than those set forth in the Draft EIR. Where revisions to the main text are called for, the page number is set forth, followed by the appropriate revision. Added text is indicated with underlined and deleted text is indicated with strikeout. Page numbers correspond to the page numbers of the Draft EIR.

3.1 Revisions to the Draft EIR
Page ES-3:

The City Council authorized the adopted the Housing Element in December 2023 which includes Site C as a vacant site with proposed rezoning. Review of The Housing Element considers a rezone of the lower half of the site with a land use designation of DR-20 units per acre. The estimated buildout would be 4036 to 50 units with the other half of the site designated for 20- R-1 or Open Space as noted in the adopted Housing Element.

Page ES-6:

Alternative 3 (No Alamo Pintado Project) would involve implementation of the 2045 General Plan and exclusion of the Alamo Pintado site as an area of potential growth. Although the Alamo Pintado Project would not be included under Alternative 3, this would not preclude development from occurring on the site in the future. Under Alternative 3, the proposed Alamo Pintado Project would not be implemented, and the zoning and General Plan designations would not change from the existing designations. However, housing could still be built on the Alamo Pintado Project site, for a total of 2 to 11 units and 5 to 27 new residents. Therefore, in comparison to the 2045 General Plan’s anticipated 2045 population of 7,253 and housing stock of 3,019 units, Alternative 3 would result in 235 to 256 fewer additional residents and 107 to 98 fewer housing units in Solvang in 2045. As a result, the anticipated growth in Solvang would be less than the 2045 General Plan.

Page ES-6:

Alternative 2 would fulfill Project Objectives of fostering a distinct community character, promoting economic diversity and sustainability, providing adequate facilities, conserving open space, and ensuring public safety. As Alternative 2 would not involve high-density the development of new hotel buildings on the Old Lumberyard site, it would fulfill Project Objectives of supporting strategic land uses, and improving mobility, and supporting diverse housing options, to a lesser extent than the 2045 General Plan. Alternative 2 would fulfill these Project Objectives to a lesser extent as the exclusion of the Old Lumberyard site would result in a decreased emphasis on the provision of housing units, an increase in VMT per capita, and less strategic land use decision-making, when compared to the 2045 General Plan Page ES-9:

AQ-1 SBCAPCD’s Construction Impact Mitigation: PM10 Mitigation Measures 157
The applicant shall require all construction contractors to implement the basic construction mitigation measures recommended by SBCAPCD to reduce fugitive dust emissions. These measures should be required for all projects involving earthmoving activities regardless of the project size or duration. Projects are expected to manage fugitive dust emissions such that emissions do not exceed APCD’s visible emissions limit (APCD Rule 302), create a public nuisance (APCD Rule 303), and are in compliance with the APCD’s requirements and standards for visible dust (APCD Rule 345). Emission reduction measures will include, at a minimum, the following measures:
 During construction, water trucks or sprinkler systems shall be used to keep all areas of vehicle movement damp enough to prevent dust from leaving the site and from exceeding SBCAPCD’s limit of 20 percent opacity for greater than three minutes in any 30-minute period. At a minimum, this should include wetting down such areas in the late morning and after work is completed for the day. Increased watering frequency shall be required whenever the wind speed exceeds 15 miles per hour (mph). Reclaimed water shall be used whenever possible. However, reclaimed water shall not be used in or around crops for human consumption.
 The amount of disturbed area shall be minimized.
 On-site vehicle speeds shall be no greater than 15 mph when traveling on unpaved surfaces.  A track-out prevention device shall be installed and operated where vehicles enter and exit unpaved roads onto paved streets. The track-out prevention device can include any device or combination of devices that are effective at preventing track out of dirt such as gravel pads, pipe-grid track-out control devices, rumble strips, or wheel washing systems.  If stockpiling of material is involved, soil stockpiled for more than one day shall be covered, kept moist, or treated with soil binders to prevent dust generation.  After clearing, grading, earth moving or excavation is completed, the disturbed area shall be treated by watering, or using roll-compaction, or revegetating, or by spreading soil binders until the area is paved or otherwise developed so that dust generation will not occur. All driveways and sidewalks to be paved/surfaced shall be completed as soon as possible.  The contractor or builder shall designate a person or persons to monitor the dust control program and to order increased watering, as necessary, to prevent transport of dust offsite. Their duties shall include holiday and weekend periods when work may not be in progress. The name and telephone number of such persons shall be provided to the SBCAPCD prior to grading/building permit issuance and/or map clearance.  The project applicant shall comply with SBCAPCD Rule 345: Control of Fugitive Dust from Construction and Demolition Activities, including all applicable standards and measures therein.
 If importation, exportation, and stockpiling of fill material is involved, soil stockpiled for more than one day shall be covered, kept moist, or treated with soil binders to prevent dust generation. Trucks transporting fill material to and from the site shall be tarped from the point of origin.
 Schedule clearing, grading, earthmoving, and excavation activities during periods of low wind speed to the extent feasible. During periods of high winds (>25 mph) clearing, grading, earthmoving, and excavation operations shall be minimized to prevent fugitive dust created by onsite operations from becoming a nuisance or hazard. 158
The commenter recommends inclusion of the District’s recommended measures to reduce diesel particulate and NOx emissions in order to address construction related impacts in MM AQ-2.

Page ES-11:

AQ-12 Construction Equipment Exhaust Control Measures
For individual residential projects facilitated by the 2045 General Plan that would develop three or more units, would involve demolition, mass grading, or excavation and trenching phases longer than two months and would be located within 1,000 feet of existing sensitive receptors, the City shall enforce a project specific Condition of Approval requiring the following: off-road heavy-duty diesel engines to meet CARB-certified Tier 3 or higher emission standards or employ CARB-certified Level 3 diesel particulate filters to the extent that this equipment is commercially available. “Commercially available” shall be defined as the availability of required equipment in geographic proximity to the project site and within a reasonable timeframe relative to critical path construction timing. If Tier 3 or higher emission standard equipment or Level 3 diesel particulate filters are not commercially available, documentation shall be provided by the project applicant to the City stating that Tier 3 equipment or higher emission standard or Level 3 diesel particulate filters are not commercially available with supporting evidence from the contractor. If CARB-certified Level 3 diesel particulate filters are utilized, they shall be kept in working order and maintained in operable condition according to manufacturer’s specifications, as applicable.
 Off-road heavy-duty diesel equipment with engines certified to meet U.S. EPA Tier 4 emission standards should be used to the maximum extent feasible.  On-road heavy-duty equipment with model year 2010 engines or newer should be used to the maximum extent feasible.
 Diesel powered equipment should be replaced by electric equipment whenever feasible.

Electric auxiliary power units should be used to the maximum extent feasible.  Equipment/vehicles using alternative fuels, such as compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural gas (LNG), propane or renewable diesel, should be used on-site where feasible.  Catalytic converters shall be installed on gasoline-powered equipment, if feasible.  All construction equipment shall be maintained in tune per the manufacturer’s specifications.
 The engine size of construction equipment shall be the minimum practical size.  The number of construction equipment operating simultaneously shall be minimized through efficient management practices to ensure that the smallest practical number is operating at any one time.
 Construction worker trips should be minimized by requiring carpooling and by providing for lunch onsite.
 Construction truck trips should be scheduled during non-peak hours to reduce peak hour emissions whenever feasible.
 Proposed truck routes should minimize impacts to residential communities and sensitive receptors.
 Construction staging areas should be located away from sensitive receptors such that exhaust and other construction emissions do not enter the fresh air intakes to buildings, air conditioners, and windows.
159
Implementation of Mitigation Measure AQ-1 would reduce potential residual health risk impacts associated with exposure of sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations of diesel particulate matter and toxic air contaminants to the extent feasible. However, as U.S. EPA Tier 43 or higher emission standard equipment or Level 3 diesel particulate filters cannot be guaranteed to be commercially available, impacts are conservatively assessed as significant and unavoidable.

Page ES-16:

Mitigation Measure CUL-1 Historical Resources
Prior to project approval of a development project carried out under the 2045 General Plan, City staff shall determine the age of the structure(s) present. If a structure is determined to be greater than 45 years of age or older, the project applicant shall submit preliminary information (i.e., photographs) identifying any historical age features (i.e., structures over 45 years of age or older) proposed to be substantially altered, relocated, or demolished. If a building, structure, object, or other built environment feature that is 45 years of age or older is proposed to be substantially altered, relocated, or demolished, and after reviewing this documentation, the Planning Manager or their designee, supported by an architectural historian as needed, shall make a preliminary determination as to whether the building qualifies as a historical resource. “Historical resource” shall mean a property listed or found eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places, the California Register of Historical Resources, or identified as historically and/or architecturally significant by the City pursuant to Section 15064.5(a) of the CEQA Guidelines. A property that is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places or the California Register of Historical Resources must retain its historic integrity and meet one of the following eligibility criteria:
 Is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history.
 Is associated with the lives of persons significant in our past.  Embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of construction, or represents the work of a master, or possesses high artistic values, or represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction.  Has yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in history or prehistory.

The evaluation shall be prepared by a qualified architectural historian or historian who meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications Standards (PQS) in architectural history or history. The qualified architectural historian or historian shall conduct an intensive-level evaluation in accordance with the guidelines and best practices promulgated by the State Office of Historic Preservation to identify potential historical resources within the proposed development site. All properties 45 years of age or older shall be evaluated within their historic context and documented in a report meeting the State Office of Historic Preservation guidelines. All evaluated properties shall be documented on Department of Parks and Recreation Series 523 Forms. The report will be submitted to the City for review and concurrence. If the property is already listed in the NRHP or CRHR, the historical resources evaluation described above shall not be required.

If historical resources are identified through the survey and evaluation within the development site of a proposed development, efforts shall be made to the extent feasible to ensure that impacts are mitigated. Application of mitigation shall generally be overseen by a qualified architectural historian 160
or historic architect meeting the PQS, unless unnecessary in the circumstances (e.g., preservation in place). In conjunction with a development application that may affect the historical resource, the historical resources evaluation report shall also identify and specify the treatment of characterdefining features and construction activities.

Efforts shall be made to the greatest extent feasible to ensure that the relocation, rehabilitation, or alteration of the resource is consistent with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatments of Historic Properties (Standards). In accordance with CEQA, a project that has been determined to conform with the Standards generally would not cause a significant adverse direct or indirect impact to historical resources (14 CCR § 15126.4(b)(1)). Application of the Standards shall be overseen by a qualified architectural historian or historic architect meeting the PQS. In conjunction with any development application that may affect the historical resource, a report identifying and specifying the treatment of character-defining features and construction activities shall be provided to the City for review and concurrence. As applicable, the report shall demonstrate how the project complies with the Standards and be submitted to the City for review and approval prior to the issuance of permits.

Mitigation measures may include documentation of the historical resource in the form of a Historic American Building Survey report. The report shall comply with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Architectural and Engineering Documentation and shall generally follow the Historic American Building Survey Level III requirements, including digital photographic recordation, detailed historic narrative report, and compilation of historic research. The documentation shall be completed by a qualified architectural historian or historian who meets the Professional Qualifications Standards as defined by 36 CFR Part 61 and submitted to the City prior to issuance of any permits for demolition or alteration of the historical resource. 161
Page ES-37:

Impact UTIL-2 2045 General Plan implementation would have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project and reasonably foreseeable future development during normal, dry, and multiple dry years. Impacts would be less than significant. the overall growth anticipated by the 2045 general plan would generate additional water demand in solvang that could exceed projected water supplies. With the implementation of 2045 general plan policies, which require the city to restrict development until adequate water supplies are available to serve additional development, this impact would be less than significant.

Page 1 ends

This document is a programmatic Environmental Impact Report (EIR) that assesses the potential environmental impacts associated with the implementation of an update to the Solvang General Plan (collectively referred to in this EIR as the “2045 General Plan” or “proposed project”). including eight respective The proposed project includes updates to seven of the City General Plan elements.

Page 2 ends

The 2045 General Plan covers approximately 3.1 square miles (1,968 acres) of land within Solvang’s Planning Area. Solvang is characterized as a compact city which has evolved into a widely recognized tourist destination in the village core due to its unique architecture. The Mission District contains the Mission Santa Inés and the surrounding open space around the mission. Other influences in the surrounding region include surrounding wineries and agricultural uses, and the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians Chumash reservation and casino.

Page 2 ends

The Land Use Element contains the Land Use Map (also referred to as the Land Use Diagram) as well as the policies and standards that directly shape land use decisions and the resulting physical development of Solvang.

Page 4 ends

AQ-1 SBCAPCD’s Construction Impact Mitigation: PM10 Mitigation Measures The applicant shall require all construction contractors to implement the basic construction mitigation measures recommended by SBCAPCD to reduce fugitive dust emissions. These measures should be required for all projects involving earthmoving activities regardless of the project size or duration. Projects are expected to manage fugitive dust emissions such that emissions do not exceed APCD’s visible emissions limit (APCD Rule 302), create a public nuisance (APCD Rule 303), and are in compliance with the APCD’s requirements and standards for visible dust (APCD Rule 345). Emission reduction measures will include, at a minimum, the following measures:
 During construction, water trucks or sprinkler systems shall be used to keep all areas of vehicle movement damp enough to prevent dust from leaving the site and from exceeding SBCAPCD’s limit of 20 percent opacity for greater than three minutes in any 30-minute period. At a minimum, this should include wetting down such areas in the late morning and after work is completed for the day. Increased watering frequency shall be required whenever the wind speed exceeds 15 miles per hour (mph). Reclaimed water shall be used 162
whenever possible. However, reclaimed water shall not be used in or around crops for human consumption.
 The amount of disturbed area shall be minimized.
 On-site vehicle speeds shall be no greater than 15 mph when traveling on unpaved surfaces.  A track-out prevention device shall be installed and operated where vehicles enter and exit unpaved roads onto paved streets. The track-out prevention device can include any device or combination of devices that are effective at preventing track out of dirt such as gravel pads, pipe-grid track-out control devices, rumble strips, or wheel washing systems.  If stockpiling of material is involved, soil stockpiled for more than one day shall be covered, kept moist, or treated with soil binders to prevent dust generation.  After clearing, grading, earth moving or excavation is completed, the disturbed area shall be treated by watering, or using roll-compaction, or revegetating, or by spreading soil binders until the area is paved or otherwise developed so that dust generation will not occur. All driveways and sidewalks to be paved/surfaced shall be completed as soon as possible.  The contractor or builder shall designate a person or persons to monitor the dust control program and to order increased watering, as necessary, to prevent transport of dust offsite. Their duties shall include holiday and weekend periods when work may not be in progress. The name and telephone number of such persons shall be provided to the SBCAPCD prior to grading/building permit issuance and/or map clearance.  The project applicant shall comply with SBCAPCD Rule 345: Control of Fugitive Dust from Construction and Demolition Activities, including all applicable standards and measures therein.
 If importation, exportation, and stockpiling of fill material is involved, soil stockpiled for more than one day shall be covered, kept moist, or treated with soil binders to prevent dust generation. Trucks transporting fill material to and from the site shall be tarped from the point of origin.
 Schedule clearing, grading, earthmoving, and excavation activities during periods of low wind speed to the extent feasible. During periods of high winds (>25 mph) clearing, grading, earthmoving, and excavation operations shall be minimized to prevent fugitive dust created by onsite operations from becoming a nuisance or hazard.

Page 4 ends

SMARTSMRT Breeze 200 Bus: Route runs from Santa Maria to Buellton and Solvang.

Page 4 ends

Impact AQ-3 development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan could result in construction activity that could produce toxic air contaminant emissions in proximity to residential receptors. Mitigation Measure AQ1-2 would require large construction projects to use equipment meeting CARB tier 3 U.S. EPA Tier 4 or higher for off-road heavy-duty diesel engines, which would reduce toxic air contaminant emissions. However, Tier 34 or higher emission standard equipment or level 3 diesel particulate filters cannot be guaranteed to be commercially available. Therefore, impacts would be significant and unavoidable.
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Page 4 ends

Individual residential development projects within 1,000 feet of sensitive receptors, that have construction durations longer than two months, and are larger than single-family residences, ADUs, or duplexes can result in potentially significant health risk impacts when Tier 34 or higher construction equipment, which results in substantially lower TAC emissions than older construction equipment, is not utilized. SBCAPCD recommends diesel equipment meeting the CARB Tier 3 U.S.

EPA Tier 4 or higher emission standards be used in place of older construction equipment to the maximum extent feasible (SBCAPCD 2022a). As a result, the construction of certain individual housing development projects – those with three or more units and a construction duration longer than two months that take place within 1,000 feet of sensitive receptors – could result in potentially significant health risk impacts if construction equipment does not meet this criteriaCARB Tier 3 or higher for off-road heavy-duty diesel engines. Therefore, this impact would be potentially significant, requiring mitigation.

Page 4 ends

Electric auxiliary power units should be used to the maximum extent feasible.  Equipment/vehicles using alternative fuels, such as compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural gas (LNG), propane or renewable diesel, should be used on-site where feasible.  Catalytic converters shall be installed on gasoline-powered equipment, if feasible.  All construction equipment shall be maintained in tune per the manufacturer’s specifications.
 The engine size of construction equipment shall be the minimum practical size. 164
 The number of construction equipment operating simultaneously shall be minimized through efficient management practices to ensure that the smallest practical number is operating at any one time.
 Construction worker trips should be minimized by requiring carpooling and by providing for lunch onsite.
 Construction truck trips should be scheduled during non-peak hours to reduce peak hour emissions whenever feasible.
 Proposed truck routes should minimize impacts to residential communities and sensitive receptors.
 Construction staging areas should be located away from sensitive receptors such that exhaust and other construction emissions do not enter the fresh air intakes to buildings, air conditioners, and windows.

Page 4 ends

Mitigation Measure CUL-1 Historical Resources
Prior to project approval of a development project carried out under the 2045 General Plan, City staff shall determine the age of the structure(s) present. If a structure is determined to be greater than 45 years of age, the project applicant shall submit preliminary information (i.e., photographs) identifying any historical age features (i.e., structures over 45 years of age or older) proposed to be substantially altered, relocated, or demolished. If a building, structure, object, or other built environment feature that is 45 years of age or older is proposed to be substantially altered, relocated, or demolished, and after reviewing this documentation, the Planning Manager or their designee, supported by an architectural historian as needed, shall make a preliminary determination as to whether the building qualifies as a historical resource. “Historical resource” shall mean a property listed or found eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places, the California Register of Historical Resources, or identified as historically and/or architecturally significant by the City pursuant to Section 15064.5(a) of the CEQA Guidelines. A property that is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places or the California Register of Historical Resources must retain its historic integrity and meet one of the following eligibility criteria:
 Is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history.
 Is associated with the lives of persons significant in our past.  Embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of construction, or represents the work of a master, or possesses high artistic values, or represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction.  Has yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in history or prehistory.

If the Planning Manager or their designee determines the built environment resource may have the potential to qualify as a historical resource, then a historical resources evaluation shall be required. The evaluation shall be prepared by a qualified architectural historian or historian who meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications Standards (PQS) in architectural history or history. The qualified architectural historian or historian shall conduct an intensive-level evaluation in accordance with the guidelines and best practices promulgated by the State Office of Historic Preservation to identify potential historical resources within the proposed development site. All properties 45 years of age or older shall be evaluated within their historic context and 165
documented in a report meeting the State Office of Historic Preservation guidelines. All evaluated properties shall be documented on Department of Parks and Recreation Series 523 Forms. The report will be submitted to the City for review and concurrence. If the property is already listed in the NRHP or CRHR, the historical resources evaluation described above shall not be required.

If historical resources are identified through the survey and evaluation within the development site of a proposed development, efforts shall be made to the extent feasible to ensure that impacts are mitigated. Application of mitigation shall generally be overseen by a qualified architectural historian or historic architect meeting the PQS, unless unnecessary in the circumstances (e.g., preservation in place). In conjunction with a development application that may affect the historical resource, the historical resources evaluation report shall also identify and specify the treatment of character-defining features and construction activities.

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As discussed in Section 4.4.1, Setting, there are threefour known archaeological resources located in the Planning Area. In addition to these known archaeological resources, there may be other yet unidentified archaeological resources which may be eligible for inclusion in the NRHP or CRHR.

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The updated Housing Element, which was adopted by the City in December 2023 and certified by the state in February 2024, includes a detailed analysis of housing needs, resources, and constraints; an analysis and identification of any areas that may perpetuate housing inequities in the community; and policies and programs with the goal of achieving more equitable housing practices
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Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) is a measure used in transportation planning. VMT measures the amount of travel for all vehicles in a geographic region over a given period of time, typically a one year period. VMT is calculated by adding up all the miles driven by all the cars and trucks on all the roadways in a region. Since 2005, daily miles traveled within Solvang has increased by 13 percent. VMT on local roads within Solvang has seen a net increase of nearly 28 percent since 2005. Approximately 55 percent of the city’s total VMT is on SR 246, with the remaining 45 percent on local roads. The City currently uses the existing regional SBCAG thresholds for VMT.

The Technical Advisory recommends that general plans, area plans, or community plans may have a significant impact on transportation if the VMT increases would exceed a threshold of 15 percent lower per capita or per employee VMT than existing regional development. As shown in Table 4.14-1, the SBCAG region’s existing VMT per capita is 21.74 and VMT per employee is

25.07. Table 4.14-1 Existing Vehicle Miles Traveled Summary Area Scenario VMT 15 Percent Below Existing VMT
SBCAG Region Existing Per Capita (2015) 21.74 18.48
Existing Per Employee (2015) 25.07 21.31
Source: Appendix G

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AQ-12 Construction Equipment Exhaust Control Measures

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This alternative would not remove the Agriculture Land Use designation, focus on affordable housing, or result in other updates to comply with current State law, or updates to address preservation of natural resources. Under the No Project Alternative, the existing zoning would not provide adequate residential zones and capacity necessary to meet the housing needs identified under the current Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) 6th Cycle. This could result in inconsistency between the 2045 General Plan and the adopted Housing Element, which was adopted by the City in December 2023 and certified by the state in February 2024.

Considering the 2045 General Plan would guide development through 2045, land use decisions made now would impact the City’s ability not only to meet the State’s current 6th Cycle RHNA, but also future RHNA cycles through 2045.
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The No Project Alternative would result in fewer construction emissions, compared to the 2045 General Plan, as there would be less overall development under the No Project Alternative.

Using methodology described in Section 4.2, Air Quality, California Emissions Estimator Model (CalEEMod) was used to estimate approximate emissions during No Project Alternative operations. As shown in Appendix C, the No Project Alternative would result in an approximate six to eighteen percent decrease in ROC, NOX, CO, PM10, and PM2.5 emissions compared to the proposed project as a result of the reduced buildout. Therefore, similar to the 2045 General Plan, the No Project Alternative operations would not result in a cumulatively conservable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is in non-attainment, and operational impacts would be less than significant, similar to the proposed project.

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The No Project Alternative would result in reduced buildout potential compared to the 2045 General Plan. Therefore, the No Project Alternative would involve less overall new development as compared to the 2045 General Plan. The goals, policies, and actions in the 2045 General Plan that would protect archaeological and historic resources would not be implemented under the No Project Alternative. Although 2045 General Plan updated goals and policies would not be implemented, existing regulations would still be in effect. Development under both the No Project Alternative and the 2045 General Plan would be required to comply with federal and State regulations as well as the City’s Municipal Code, which would require identification, evaluation, and protection of historic resources throughout the City. Overall, the No Project Alternative would result in reduced impacts to archaeological and historic resources compared to the 2045 General Plan because development under this alternative is anticipated to be reduced compared to the 2045 General Plan. Additionally, each individual project under the No Project Alternative would be required to implement mitigation to reduce impacts to a less-thansignificant level, similar to the 2045 General Plan. Therefore, impacts to cultural resources under the No Project Alternative would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated, similar to the proposed project.

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Operation of future development under the No Project Alternative would not involve substantial vibration or groundborne noise. Therefore, impacts would be similar to the 2045 General Plan. Overall, impacts involving groundborne vibration and noise would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated, similar to the proposed project. 168

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SBCAPCD does not have quantitative thresholds of significance for plan-level activity that would apply to the 2045 General Plan. Therefore, construction impacts for the 2045 General Plan are discussed qualitatively. As described in 4.2, Air Quality, there is not sufficient data to allow project-level construction analysis. Therefore, construction-related impacts of Alternative 2, with adherence to SBCAPCD fugitive dust control measures, may still exceed SBCAPCD’s threshold and construction impacts would be significant and unavoidable. Although, due to the reduced buildout potential, Alternative 2 would result in a minor emissions reduction compared to the 2045 General Plan. Using methodology described in Section 4.2, Air Quality, CalEEMod was used to estimate approximate emissions during Alternative 2 operations. As shown in Appendix C, Alternative 2 would result in an approximate two percent decrease in ROC, NOX, CO, PM10, and PM2.5 emissions compared to the proposed project operations because of a reduction of area and energy consumption, due to a reduced residential buildout. Therefore, similar to the 2045 General Plan, Alternative 2 would not result in a cumulatively conservableconsiderable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is in non-attainment, and operational impacts would be less than significant, similar to the proposed project.

Similar to the 2045 General Plan, Alternative 2 would potentially expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations in the form of TACs during construction. Mitigation Measure AQ-2 would still be required under Alternative 2 and DPM and TAC emissions would be substantially reduced at sensitive receptors. However, U.S. EPA Tier 34 or higher engines tiers or Level 3 diesel particulate filters cannot be guaranteed to be commercially available. Therefore, construction related impacts are conservatively assessed as significant and unavoidable, similar to the 2045 General Plan. Although, due to the reduced buildout potential, Alternative 2 would result in a minor TAC emission reduction, specifically near single-family residences that are north and east of the Old Lumberyard site, compared to the 2045 General Plan. The buildout of Alternative 2 would not include land uses that would emit substantial amount of operational TAC emissions, and stationary sources would be required to be permitted by SBCPACD.

Therefore, similar to the 2045 General Plan, Alternative 2 would not expose sensitive receptors to substantial operational TAC emissions and operational impacts would be less than significant.

As with the 2045 General Plan, construction-related odors would be short-term and temporary, and odor-related impacts would be less than significantthe Alternative 2 would not result in other emissions that would adversely affect a substantial number of people.

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Alternative 2 would result in reduced buildout potential compared to the 2045 General Plan.

Nonetheless, Alternative 2 would have similar potential as the proposed project to affect historical resources substantially and adversely since this alternative could still facilitate development on parcels containing historic structures. Similar to the 2045 General Plan, Alternative 2 would implement policies to protect historical and culturally significant resources and would implement Mitigation Measure CUL-1 to identify historic-age features that an individual development would alter or demolish. However, there would still be potential for development to impact historical resources. Therefore, Alternative 2 would have similar impacts to historical resources as the 2045 General Plan, and this alternative’s impact on historical resources would be less than significant with mitigation, similar to the proposed project. As Alternative 2 would result in reduced buildout potential, this alternative would therefore have 169
less potential to disturb subsurface archaeological resources, as development and grounddisturbing activities would not occur on the Old Lumberyard site. Similar to the 2045 General Plan, Alternative 2 would implement Mitigation Measures CUL-2 through CUL-4 and would require archaeological resources assessments, archaeological resources monitoring, or implementation of unanticipated discovery procedures for development involving grounddisturbing activities. Therefore, Alternative 2 would have fewer impacts than the 2045 General Plan, and this alternative’s impact on archaeological resources would be less than significant with mitigation, similar to the proposed project. Similar to the 2045 General Plan, excavations during construction activities facilitated by Alternative 2 could have the potential to disturb human remains in the Planning Area which could include Native American burial sites, however, adherence to California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5 would ensure impacts would be less than significant.

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The project site is currently zoned Residential, 20,000 square feet (20-R-1), which allows for single-family residential development, and has a General Plan land use designation of Low/Medium Residential (2 dwelling units per acre, with up to 3 accessory dwelling units). The proposed General Plan Update would involve a zone change to Design Residential 20 (DR-20).

Under the proposed General Plan Update, the project site would have a land use designation of High Density Residential.

Although the Alamo Pintado Project would not be included under Alternative 3, this would not preclude development from occurring on the site in the future. There are currently two existing lots and therefore 2 units were assumed to be developed under the existing zoning of Residential, 20,000 square feet (20-R-1), which allows for single-family residential development, and a General Plan land use designation of Low/Medium Residential (2 dwelling units per acre, with up to 3 accessory dwelling units). Based on the zoning of 20-R-1 there is a potential for up to 11 units or lots to be designed for this 5.5-acre property. Additionally, there is potential for Accessory Dwelling Units. This level of development would require the process of a Development Plan and additionally a Tentative Tract Map. These discretionary applications would require process of the applications, environmental review and a public hearing at the Planning Commission.

Under Alternative 3, the proposed Alamo Pintado Project would not be implemented, and the zoning and General Plan designations would not change from the existing designations.

However, housing could still be built on the Alamo Pintado Project site, for a total of 2 to 11 units and 5 to 27 new residents.

Therefore, in comparison to the 2045 General Plan’s anticipated 2045 population of 7,253 and housing stock of 3,019 units, Alternative 3 would result in 235 to 256 fewer additional residents and 107 to 98 fewer housing units in Solvang in 2045. As a result, the anticipated growth in Solvang would be less than the 2045 General Plan. Furthermore, Alternative 3 would not fulfill the Project Objectives of supporting strategic land uses and diverse housing options.

This revision is included in the DEIR for clarification. These changes do not alter the conclusions of the findings or analysis in the DEIR and do not result in a new or substantial increase in any environmental impacts compared to the DEIR.
170

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Using methodology described in Section 4.2, Air Quality, CalEEMod was used to estimate approximate emissions during Alternative 3 operations. As shown in Appendix C, Alternative 3 would result in an approximate one to six percent decrease in ROC, NOX, CO, PM10, and PM2.5 emissions compared to the proposed project operations because of a reduction of area and energy consumption, due to a reduced residential buildout. Therefore, similar to the 2045 General Plan, Alternative 3 would not result in a cumulatively considerableconservable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is in non-attainment, and operational impacts would be less than significant, similar to the proposed project.

Similar to the 2045 General Plan, Alternative 3 would potentially expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations in the form of TACs during construction. Mitigation Measure AQ-2 would still be required under Alternative 3 and DPM and TAC emissions would be substantially reduced at sensitive receptors. However, Tier U.S. EPA 43 or higher engines tiers or Level 3 diesel particulate filters cannot be guaranteed to be commercially available. Therefore, construction related impacts are conservatively assessed as significant and unavoidable, similar to the 2045 General Plan. Although, due to the reduced buildout potential, Alternative 3 would result in a minor TAC emission reduction, specifically near single-family residences that are north, west, and southwest of the Alamo Pintado site, compared to the 2045 General Plan. The buildout of Alternative 3 would not include land uses that would emit substantial amount of operational TAC emissions, and stationary sources would be required to be permitted by SBCPACD. Therefore, Alternative 3 would not expose sensitive receptors to substantial operational TAC emissions and operational impacts would be less than significant. As with the proposed project, construction-related odors would be short-term and temporary, odor-related impacts would be less than significantthe Alternative 3 would not result in other emissions that would adversely affect a substantial number of people.

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Alternative 3 would result in reduced buildout potential compared to the 2045 General Plan; however, the Alamo Pintado site is known to contain remnants of a mission-era aqueduct which may qualify as a historical resource under CEQA is currently vacant and therefore does not contain historical resources. Therefore, both the 2045 General Plan and Alternative 3 would have a similar potential impact on historical resources, as development that could impact preexisting historical resources would be identical in location. Similar to the 2045 General Plan, Alternative 3 would implement policies to protect historical and culturally significant resources, and would implement Mitigation Measure CUL-1 to identify historic-age features that an individual development would alter or demolish. Therefore, Alternative 3 would have a similar level of impact when compared to the 2045 General Plan, and this alternative’s impact on historical resources would be less than significant with mitigation, similar to the proposed project. As Alternative 3 would result in reduced buildout potential, this alternative would 171
therefore have less potential to disturb subsurface archaeological resources, as development and ground-disturbing activities would not occur on the Alamo Pintado site. Similar to the 2045 General Plan, Alternative 3 would implement Mitigation Measures CUL-2 through CUL-4 and would require archaeological resources assessments, archaeological resources monitoring, or implementation of unanticipated discovery procedures for development involving grounddisturbing activities. Therefore, Alternative 3 would have fewer impacts than the 2045 General Plan, and this alternative’s impact on archaeological resources would be less than significant with mitigation, similar to the proposed project. Similar to the 2045 General Plan, excavations during construction activities facilitated by Alternative 3 could have the potential to disturb human remains in the Planning Area which could include Native American burial sites, however, adherence to California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5 would ensure impacts would be less than significant.

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Using methodology described in Section 4.2, Air Quality, CalEEMod was used to estimate approximate emissions during Alternative 4 operations. As shown in Appendix C, Alternative 4 would result in an approximate one to seven percent decrease in ROC, NOX, CO, PM10, and PM2.5 emissions compared to the proposed project operations because of a reduction of area and energy consumption, due to a reduced residential buildout. Therefore, similar to the 2045 General Plan, Alternative 4 would not result in a cumulatively conservable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is in non-attainment, and operational impacts would be less than significant, similar to the proposed project.

Similar to the 2045 General Plan, Alternative 4 would potentially expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations in the form of TACs during construction. Mitigation Measure AQ-2 would still be required under Alternative 4 and DPM and TAC emissions would be substantially reduced at sensitive receptors. However, U.S. EPA Tier 34 or higher engines tiers or Level 3 diesel particulate filters cannot be guaranteed to be commercially available. Therefore, construction related impacts are conservatively assessed as significant and unavoidable, similar to the 2045 General Plan. Although, due to the reduced buildout potential, Alternative 4 would result in a minor TAC emission reduction, specifically near single-family residences that are adjacent to the Old Lumberyard and Alamo Pintado sites, compared to the 2045 General Plan.

The buildout of Alternative 4 would not include land uses that would emit substantial amount of TAC emissions, and stationary sources would be required to be permitted by SBCPACD.

Therefore, Alternative 4 would not expose sensitive receptors to substantial TAC emissions during operations and operational impacts would be less than significant As with the 2045 General Plan, construction-related odors would be short-term and temporary, odor-related impacts would be less than significantthe Alternative 2 would not result in other emissions that would adversely affect a substantial number of people.
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Alternative 4 would result in reduced buildout potential compared to the 2045 General Plan.

Additionally, the existing Solvang Mill, Lumberyard building, and single-family residence located on the Old Lumberyard site would not be demolished or relocated. These buildings are not listed on the National Register of Historic Places or the California Register of Historic Resources (See Section 4.4, Cultural Resources); however, these structures could meet the age threshold (45 years or older) for potential historical resources, pursuant to CEQA. Additionally, the Alamo Pintado site is vacant and does not contain historical resources. Nonetheless, Alternative 4 would have similar potential as the proposed project to affect historical resources substantially and adversely since this alternative could still facilitate development on parcels containing historic structures. Similar to the 2045 General Plan, Alternative 4 would implement policies to protect historical and culturally significant resources, and would implement Mitigation Measure CUL-1 to identify historic-age features that an individual development would alter or demolish.

Therefore, Alternative 4 would have a similar level of impact to historical resources when compared to the 2045 General Plan., and this alternative’s impact on historical resources would be less than significant with mitigation, similar to the proposed project As Alternative 4 would result in reduced buildout potential, this alternative would therefore have less potential to disturb subsurface archaeological resources, as development and grounddisturbing activities would not occur on the Old Lumberyard and Alamo Pintado sites. Similar to the 2045 General Plan, Alternative 4 would implement Mitigation Measures CUL-2 through CUL4 and would require archaeological resources assessments, archaeological resources monitoring, or implementation of unanticipated discovery procedures for development involving ground-disturbing activities. Therefore, Alternative 4 would have fewer impacts than the 2045 General Plan, and this alternative’s impact on archaeological resources would be less than significant with mitigation, similar to the proposed project. Similar to the 2045 General Plan, excavations during construction activities facilitated by Alternative 4 could have the potential to disturb human remains in the Planning Area which could include Native American burial sites, however, adherence to California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5 would ensure impacts would be less than significant.

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GEO-1 Protection of Paleontological Resources
For projects that would involve excavation below 12 inches in depth in undisturbed soils underlain by sedimentary geologic units with high paleontological sensitivity, The City of Solvang shall add the following policies providing for the protection of paleontological resources to the 2045 General Plan prior to its adoption. These policies shall include require projects to adhere to the following stipulations:
 A Qualified Professional Paleontologist, as defined by the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology (SVP), must be retained to conduct a paleontological resources analysis prior to the initiation of projects that may impact sediments with high paleontological sensitivity to determine whether there is a potential for the project to significantly impact paleontological resources.
 If potential impacts to paleontological resources are found to be significant, then a Qualified Professional Paleontologist shall be retained to develop and implement a Paleontological Resources Mitigation Program (PRMP) to ensure that impacts to paleontological resources are mitigated. This PRMP may include:
 Worker Environmental Awareness Program (WEAP) training;  Pre-construction surveys;
 Paleontological construction monitoring;
 Retention of an on-call Qualified Professional Paleontologist;  Salvage, laboratory preparation, and curation of paleontological resources; and/or  Reporting to regulatory agencies.
 Should paleontological resources be encountered during any construction activity, all activity that could damage or destroy the resources shall be suspended until a Qualified Professional Paleontologist has examined the site. Construction shall not resume until the resource is properly evaluated and, if necessary, mitigation actions are carried out to address the impacts of the project on these resources.

Page ES-25 through ES-26, Page 4.11-27:

NOI-1 Adopt and Implement Construction Noise Reduction Measures To minimize noise during construction, the City shall adopt a policy to include the following:
construction contractors shall implement the following measures for construction activities conducted within the City. Construction plans submitted to the City shall identify the following minimum measures on demolition, grading, and construction plans submitted to the City. The City Building Department shall verify that grading, demolition, and/or construction plans submitted to the City include these notations prior to issuance of demolition, grading and/or building permits.
 Mufflers. During excavation and grading construction phases, all construction equipment, fixed or mobile, shall be operated with closed engine doors and shall be equipped with properly operating and maintained mufflers consistent with manufacturers’ standards.  Stationary Equipment. All stationary construction equipment shall be placed so that emitted noise is directed away from the nearest sensitive receivers. 174
 Equipment Staging Areas. Equipment staging shall be located in areas that will create the greatest distance feasible between construction-related noise sources and noise-sensitive receivers.
 Smart Back-up Alarms. Mobile construction equipment shall have smart back-up alarms that automatically adjust the sound level of the alarm in response to ambient noise levels.

The disturbance coordinator shall determine the cause of any noise complaint and shall require that reasonable measures be implemented to correct the problem. A telephone number for the disturbance coordinator and the City shall be posted at the construction site.
 Temporary Noise Barriers. Erect temporary noise barriers, where feasible, when construction noise is predicted to exceed the acceptable standards (e.g., 80 dBA Leq at residential receivers, schools or other sensitive receptors during the daytime) or when the anticipated construction duration is greater than is typical (e.g., two years or greater) and there are sensitive receptors within 500 feet of the construction site. Temporary noise barriers shall be constructed with solid materials (e.g., wood) with a density of at least 1.5 pounds per square foot with no gaps from the ground to the top of the barrier. If a sound blanket is used, barriers shall be constructed with solid material with a density of at least 1 pound per square foot with no gaps from the ground to the top of the barrier and be lined on the construction side with acoustical blanket, curtain or equivalent absorptive material rated sound transmission class (STC) 32 or higher.

Page ES-26 through ES-27, Page 4.11-29:

NOI-2 Adopt and Implement Vibration Control Measures and Screening Distances
To reduce potential construction vibration impacts, the City shall adopt the following 2045 General Plan Policy require the following measures for applicable projects:
 Prior to issuance of a building permit for a project requiring pile driving during construction a) within 135 feet of fragile structures (historical resources, 100 feet of non-engineered timber and masonry buildings [e.g., most residential buildings], b) within 75 feet of engineered concrete and masonry (no plaster); c) a vibratory roller within 40 feet of fragile historical resources or 25 feet of any other structure; and/or d) a dozer or other large earthmoving equipment within 20 feet for a fragile historical structure or 15 feet of any other structure, the project applicant shall prepare a ground borne vibration analysis to assess and mitigate potential vibration impacts related to these construction activities. This vibration analysis shall be conducted by a qualified and experienced acoustical consultant or engineer. The vibration levels shall not exceed FTA architectural damage thresholds (e.g.,

0.12 in/sec PPV for fragile or historical resources, 0.2 in/sec PPV for non-engineered timber 175
and masonry buildings, and 0.3 in/sec PPV for engineered concrete and masonry). If vibration levels would exceed these thresholds, alternative uses such as drilling piles as opposed to pile driving, static rollers as opposed to vibratory rollers, and lower horsepower earthmoving equipment shall be used. If necessary, construction vibration monitoring shall be conducted to ensure FTA vibration thresholds are not exceeded. 176
4 Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
Program
Public Resources Code Section 21081.6(a)(1) requires that a Lead Agency adopt a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP) before approving a project in order to mitigate or avoid significant impacts that have been identified in an Environmental Impact Report (EIR). The purpose of the MMRP is to ensure that the required mitigation measures identified in the EIR are implemented as part of the overall project development process. In addition to ensuring implementation of mitigation measures, the MMRP provides guidance to agency staff and decisionmakers during project implementation and identifies the need for enforcement action before irreversible environmental damage occurs. The MMRP must be adopted when the City Council makes a final decision on the project.

The following table summarizes the mitigation measures identified in the Solvang General Plan Final EIR for the proposed project. Specifically, the table identifies each mitigation measure; the action required for the measure to be implemented; the time at which the monitoring is to occur; the monitoring conditions; and the agency or party responsible for ensuring that the monitoring is performed. Once completed, all monitoring actions will be reported in writing to or by the City, which will maintain mitigation monitoring records for the proposed project. 177
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178
Mitigation Measure Action Required When Monitoring to Occur Monitoring
Frequency Responsible Agency or Party
Compliance Verification
Initial Date Comments
Air Quality
MM AQ-1 SBCAPCD’s Construction Impact Mitigation
The applicant shall require all construction contractors to implement the basic construction mitigation measures recommended by SBCAPCD to reduce fugitive dust emissions. These measures should be required for all projects involving earthmoving activities regardless of the project size or duration. Projects are expected to manage fugitive dust emissions such that emissions do not exceed APCD’s visible emissions limit (APCD Rule 302), create a public nuisance (APCD Rule 303), and are in compliance with the APCD’s requirements and standards for visible dust (APCD Rule 345). Emission reduction measures will include, at a minimum, the following measures:
 During construction, water trucks or sprinkler systems shall be used to keep all areas of vehicle movement damp enough to prevent dust from leaving the site and from exceeding SBCAPCD’s limit of 20 percent opacity for greater than three minutes in any 30- minute period. At a minimum, this should include wetting down such areas in the late morning and after work is completed for the day. Increased watering frequency shall be required whenever the wind speed exceeds 15 miles per hour (mph). Reclaimed water shall be used whenever possible. However, reclaimed water shall not be used in or around crops for human consumption.  The amount of disturbed area shall be minimized.
 On-site vehicle speeds shall be no greater than 15 mph when traveling on unpaved surfaces.  A track-out prevention device shall be installed and operated where vehicles enter and exit unpaved roads onto paved streets. The track-out prevention device can include any device or combination of devices that are effective at preventing track out of dirt such as gravel pads, pipe-grid track-out control devices, rumble strips, or wheel washing systems.  After clearing, grading, earth moving or excavation is completed, the disturbed area shall be treated by watering, or using rollcompaction, or revegetating, or by spreading soil binders until the area is paved or otherwise developed so that dust generation will not occur. All driveways and sidewalks to be paved/surfaced shall be completed as soon as possible.  The contractor or builder shall designate a person or persons to monitor the dust control program and to order increased watering, as necessary, to prevent transport of dust off-site. Their duties shall include holiday and weekend periods when work may not be in progress. The name and telephone number of such persons shall be provided to the SBCAPCD prior to grading/building permit issuance and/or map clearance.
 If importation, exportation, and stockpiling of fill material is involved, soil stockpiled for more than one day shall be covered, kept moist, or treated with soil binders to prevent dust generation. Trucks transporting fill material to and from the site shall be tarped from the point of origin.
 Schedule clearing, grading, earthmoving, and excavation activities during periods of low wind speed to the extent feasible. During periods of high winds (>25 mph) clearing, grading, earthmoving, and excavation operations shall be minimized to prevent fugitive dust created by onsite operations from becoming a nuisance or hazard.

Require all construction
contractors to
implement the basic
construction mitigation
measures
recommended by
SBCAPCD to reduce
fugitive dust emissions.

Requirements shall be shown on plans prior
to grading/building permit issuance and/or
recorded with the map during map
recordation
Once City of Solvang
Conditions shall be adhered to throughout all
grading and construction periods
As needed
MM AQ-2 Construction Exhaust Control Measures
For individual residential projects facilitated by the 2045 General Plan that would develop three or more units, would involve demolition, mass grading, or excavation and trenching phases longer than two months and would be located within 1,000 feet of existing sensitive receptors, the City shall enforce a project specific Condition of Approval requiring the following:
 Off-road heavy-duty diesel equipment with engines certified to meet U.S. EPA Tier 4 emission standards should be used to the maximum extent feasible.
 On-road heavy-duty equipment with model year 2010 engines or newer should be used to the maximum extent feasible.  Diesel powered equipment should be replaced by electric equipment whenever feasible. Electric auxiliary power units should be used to the maximum extent feasible.
 Equipment/vehicles using alternative fuels, such as compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural gas (LNG), propane or renewable diesel, should be used on-site where feasible.  Catalytic converters shall be installed on gasoline-powered equipment, if feasible.  All construction equipment shall be maintained in tune per the manufacturer’s specifications.  The engine size of construction equipment shall be the minimum practical size.  The number of construction equipment operating simultaneously shall be minimized through efficient management practices to ensure that the smallest practical number is operating at any one time.  Construction worker trips should be minimized by requiring carpooling and by providing for lunch onsite.  Construction truck trips should be scheduled during non-peak hours to reduce peak hour emissions whenever feasible.  Proposed truck routes should minimize impacts to residential communities and sensitive receptors.  Construction staging areas should be located away from sensitive receptors such that exhaust and other construction emissions do not enter the fresh air intakes to buildings, air conditioners, and windows.

Enforce a project
specific Condition of
Approval requiring
construction exhaust
control measures.

Prior to grading/building permit issuance
and/or map recordation, all requirements
shall be shown as conditions of approval on
grading/building plans, and/or on a separate
sheet to be recorded with the map
Once City of Solvang
179
Mitigation Measure Action Required When Monitoring to Occur Monitoring
Frequency Responsible Agency or Party
Compliance Verification
Initial Date Comments
Biological Resources
MM BIO-1 Conduct Pre-construction Bird Surveys and Implement Avoidance and Minimization Measures For construction activities initiated during the bird nesting season (February 1 through September 15, and as early as January 1 for raptors), involving removal of vegetation, abandoned structures, man-made features, or other nesting bird habitat, a pre-construction nesting bird survey shall be conducted no more than 5 days prior to initiation of ground disturbance and vegetation removal. The nesting bird pre-construction survey shall be conducted on foot and shall include an area on and around the construction site at a distance determined by a qualified biologist, including staging and storage areas. The minimum survey radii surrounding the work area shall be 500 feet. The survey shall be conducted by a qualified biologist familiar with the identification of avian species known to occur in the Solvang region. If construction lapses for 5 days or longer, the qualified biologist shall conduct another focused survey before project activities are reinitiated. If nests are found, an avoidance buffer shall be determined by the biologist dependent upon the species, the proposed work activity, and existing disturbances associated with land uses outside the site. The qualified biologist shall observe the active nest to establish a behavioral baseline of the adults and nestlings, if present. The qualified biologist shall monitor the active nests, while construction activities are happening to detect signs of disturbance and behavioral change as a result of construction impacts, such as noise, vibration, odors, or worker/equipment motion. If signs of disturbance and behavioral changes are observed, the qualified biologist shall stop all construction work causing those changes and until a larger avoidance buffer is established or until it is determined that the nesting period is completed. The buffer shall be demarcated by the biologist with bright orange construction fencing, flagging, construction lathe, or other means to demarcate the boundary. All construction personnel shall be notified of the buffer zone as an “Nesting Bird Area” and to avoid entering the buffer zone until a biologist determines that the nest is no longer active.

No ground-disturbing activities shall occur within the buffer until the biologist has confirmed that breeding/nesting is completed and the young have fledged the nest. A report summarizing the pre-construction survey(s) shall be prepared by a qualified biologist and shall be included on project site plans and submitted to the City prior to the commencement of construction activities.

Schedule construction
activities to commence
outside the general
avian nesting season
(September 16 to
January 31) if feasible.

If project construction
commences within the
general avian nesting
season (February 1 to
September 15), retain a
qualified biologist to
conduct a preconstruction nesting
bird survey and
establish buffer areas, if
necessary.

Prior to construction Once City of Solvang
No more than 5 days prior to initiation of
ground disturbance and vegetation removal
Once
Verify compliance with
avoidance
requirements, if any.

During construction As needed
MM BIO-2 Special Status Bat Species Habitat Assessment Survey and Emergence Surveys For future projects where trees, abandoned structures, or other habitat for roosting bats is present and construction activities may occur during seasonal periods of bat activity, construction activities shall occur outside the maternity season, as feasible. Should construction timing not allow for it, a special-status bat habitat assessment survey shall be conducted by a qualified biologist prior to any construction activities during the bat maternity season from April 1 through August 31. The survey will document any evidence of special-status bat species that may occur in proposed work areas through direct observation (e.g., roosting bats) and/or sign (e.g., bat guano). If no observance and/or sign of special-status bats are detected during these surveys, then construction-related activities may proceed. If observance or sign of special status bat species are detected during the survey, special-status bat species emergence survey(s) will need to be conducted.

If observance and/or sign of special-status bat species use is documented within the project site during implementation of BIO-2, and construction activities occur during the bat maternity season (April 1 through August 31), special-status bat species emergence survey(s) will be conducted. As part of BIO-3, a habitat assessment survey generally outlined in BIO-2 will be conducted on the first night of the emergence survey(s) to document the areas of suitable bat habitat within the Project site. Emergence surveys will be conducted in areas of suitable bat habitat (e.g., near buildings or trees) during the bat maternity season to document any special-status bat species emerging from features identified during the habitat assessment survey. Multiple emergence surveys may be required depending on the size and number of suitable habitat locations. The emergence survey(s) will be conducted one hour prior to sunset and last up to a minimum of two hours after sunset. Depending on potential species that may occur, surveys may need to be conducted until midnight.

Passive acoustic monitoring equipment will be utilized during the emergence surveys to identify bats to the species level. Any specialstatus bat species observed maternity roosting within or adjacent to the Project site should be avoided and provided a minimum buffer as determined by the qualified biologist (a 100-foot to 300-foot buffer is recommended) or in consultation with USFWS and/or CDFW prior to the commencement of construction. Should special-status bat species only be day roosting and not maternity roosting, a bat mitigation and/or management plan should be developed for roost relocation. Mitigation and management plans would also require consultation with USFWS and/or CDFW prior to the commencement of construction.

Schedule construction
activities to commence
outside the general bat
maternity season
(September 1 to
March 31) if feasible.

Prior to construction Once City of Solvang
If project construction
commences within the
general avian nesting
season (April 1 to
August 31), retain a
qualified biologist to
conduct a special-status
bat habitat assessment
survey and specialstatus bat species
emergence survey, if
necessary.

Prior to any construction activities Once
Verify compliance with
avoidance
requirements, if any.

During construction As needed
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MM BIO-3 Conduct Pre-construction Crotch’s Bumblebee Surveys and Implement Avoidance Measures For construction activities located in vacant or undeveloped areas containing open grasslands, shrublands, or chaparral, a habitat assessment for Crotch’s bumblebee shall be performed. If it is determined that suitable habitat for Crotch’s bumblebee is present, a focused survey shall be performed during the species active flight period for Crotch’s bumblebee and peak blooming period of nectar and pollen sources (May 1 through July 31). The survey shall be conducted by a qualified biologist to determine presence of Crotch’s bumblebee no more than 5 days prior to initiation of construction activities. The Crotch’s bumblebee survey shall be conducted on foot and shall encompass the entirety of a project site and focus on areas that allow for the highest probability of detection, such as high abundance nectar or pollen sources and rodent burrows that may be used for breeding and nesting, subject to the discretion of the qualified biologist. Prior to the start of construction, the qualified biologist shall map areas with abundant nectar or pollen sources that have potential use by Crotch’s bumblebee and active nesting sites. A report summarizing the habitat assessment and pre-construction survey (if required) shall be prepared by the qualified biologist and shall be submitted to the City prior to the commencement of construction activities.

If Crotch’s bumblebee is determined to be present, the project proponent shall consult with CDFW and obtain an Incidental Take Permit in accordance with the CESA prior to initiating any ground disturbance on the site.

If project construction
occurs in Crotch’s
Bumblebee habitat, a
qualified biologist
should be retained to
conduct a preconstruction survey
during the species
active flight period for
Crotch’s Bumblebee and
peak blooming period of
nectar and pollen
sources (May 1 through
July 31).

Prior to construction Once City of Solvang
No more than 5 days prior to initiation of
construction activities
Once
Verify that the
summarized habitat
assessment and preconstruction survey
report is submitted to
the City.

Prior to construction Once
Verify compliance with
proper avoidance
measures.

During construction As needed
Cultural Resources
MM CUL-1 Historical Resources
Prior to project approval of a development project carried out under the 2045 General Plan, City staff shall determine the age of the structure(s) present. If a structure is determined to be 45 years of age or older, the project applicant shall submit preliminary information (i.e., photographs) identifying any historical age features (i.e., structures 45 years of age or older) proposed to be substantially altered, relocated, or demolished. If a building, structure, object, or other built environment feature that is 45 years of age or older is proposed to be substantially altered, relocated, or demolished, and after reviewing this documentation, the Planning Manager or their designee, supported by an architectural historian as needed, shall make a preliminary determination as to whether the building qualifies as a historical resource. “Historical resource” shall mean a property listed or found eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places, the California Register of Historical Resources, or identified as historically and/or architecturally significant by the City pursuant to Section 15064.5(a) of the CEQA Guidelines. A property that is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places or the California Register of Historical Resources must retain its historic integrity and meet one of the following eligibility criteria:
 Is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history.  Is associated with the lives of persons significant in our past.  Embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of construction, or represents the work of a master, or possesses high artistic values, or represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction.
 Has yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in history or prehistory.

If the Planning Manager or their designee determines the built environment resource may have the potential to qualify as a historical resource, then a historical resources evaluation shall be required. The evaluation shall be prepared by a qualified architectural historian or historian who meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications Standards (PQS) in architectural history or history. The qualified architectural historian or historian shall conduct an intensive-level evaluation in accordance with the guidelines and best practices promulgated by the State Office of Historic Preservation to identify potential historical resources within the proposed development site. All properties 45 years of age or older shall be evaluated within their historic context and documented in a report meeting the State Office of Historic Preservation guidelines. All evaluated properties shall be documented on Department of Parks and Recreation Series 523 Forms. The report will be submitted to the City for review and concurrence. If the property is already listed in the NRHP or CRHR, the historical resources evaluation described above shall not be required.

If historical resources are identified through the survey and evaluation within the development site of a proposed development, efforts shall be made to the extent feasible to ensure that impacts are mitigated. Application of mitigation shall generally be overseen by a qualified architectural historian or historic architect meeting the PQS, unless unnecessary in the circumstances (e.g., preservation in Verify a historical
resources evaluation
has been conducted for
projects with potential
to impact historical
resources.

If necessary, verify
implementation of
avoidance and/or
reduction measures.

During project/permitting review Once City of Solvang
Prior to and during project construction Continuously
during
grading,
excavation,
and
demolition
181
Mitigation Measure Action Required When Monitoring to Occur Monitoring
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Initial Date Comments
place). In conjunction with a development application that may affect the historical resource, the historical resources evaluation report shall also identify and specify the treatment of character-defining features and construction activities.

If significant historical resources are identified on a development site and compliance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatments of Historic Properties and or avoidance is not possible, appropriate site-specific mitigation measures shall be established and undertaken. Mitigation measures may include documentation of the historical resource in the form of a Historic American Building Survey report. The report shall comply with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Architectural and Engineering Documentation and shall generally follow the Historic American Building Survey Level III requirements, including digital photographic recordation, detailed historic narrative report, and compilation of historic research. The documentation shall be completed by a qualified architectural historian or historian who meets the Professional Qualifications Standards as defined by 36 CFR Part 61 and submitted to the City prior to issuance of any permits for demolition or alteration of the historical resource.

MM CUL-2 Archaeological Resources Assessment
Prior to approval of a project carried out under the 2045 General Plan that will involve ground disturbance activities in native or previously undisturbed soils that may include, but are not limited to, pavement removal, potholing, grubbing, tree removal, excavation or grading, an archaeological resources assessment shall be prepared under the supervision of an archaeologist that meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications Standards (PQS) in either prehistoric or historic archaeology. Assessments shall include a California Historical Resources Information System (CHRIS) records search at the Central Coast Information Center (CCIC) and of the Sacred Lands File Search maintained by the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC). The records searches shall characterize the results of previous cultural resource surveys and disclose any cultural resources that have been recorded and/or evaluated in and around the project site. A Phase I pedestrian survey shall be undertaken in proposed project areas that are on previously undeveloped land to locate any surface cultural materials. By performing a records search, consultation with the NAHC, and a Phase I survey, a qualified archaeologist shall be able to classify the project area as having high, medium, or low sensitivity for archaeological resources.

If the Phase I archaeological survey identifies resources that may be affected by the project, the archaeological resources assessment shall also include Phase II testing and evaluation. If resources are determined significant or unique through Phase II testing and site avoidance is not possible, appropriate site-specific mitigation measures shall be identified in the Phase II evaluation. These measures shall include, but would not be limited to, a Phase III data recovery program, avoidance, or other appropriate actions to be determined by a qualified archaeologist. If significant archaeological resources cannot be avoided, impacts may be reduced to less-than-significant levels by filling on top of the sites rather than cutting into the cultural deposits. Alternatively, and/or in addition, a data collection program may be warranted, including mapping the location of artifacts, surface collection of artifacts, or excavation of the cultural deposit to characterize the nature of the buried portions of sites. Curation of the excavated artifacts or samples would occur as specified by the archaeologist.

Verify an archaeological
resources evaluation
has been completed for
applicable projects.

During permitting review Once City of Solvang
If necessary, verify
implementation of
avoidance and/or
reduction measures.

Prior to and during project construction Continuously
during
grading,
excavation,
and
demolition
MM CUL-3 Archaeological Monitoring
For projects whose Phase I archaeological survey identifies archaeological resources that may be affected, the applicant shall retain a qualified cultural resource specialist to monitor construction activities that involve ground-disturbing activities greater than 12 inches in depth and occur within 60 feet of a potentially significant cultural resource.

Retain a qualified
cultural resource
specialist to monitor
construction activities
that involve ground
disturbing activities
greater than 12 inches
in depth and occurring
within 60 feet of a
potentially significant
cultural resource.

Prior to commencement of construction
activities
As needed City of Solvang
182
Mitigation Measure Action Required When Monitoring to Occur Monitoring
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Initial Date Comments
MM CUL-4 Unanticipated Discoveries
In the event that archaeological resources are unexpectedly encountered during ground-disturbing activities, work within 50 feet of the find shall halt and an archaeologist meeting the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications Standards for archaeology (National Park Service 1983) shall be contacted immediately to evaluate the resource. If the resource is determined by the qualified archaeologist to be prehistoric, then a Chumash representative shall also be contacted to participate in the evaluation of the resource. If the qualified archaeologist and/or Chumash representative determines it to be appropriate, archaeological testing for CRHR eligibility shall be completed. If the resource proves to be eligible for the CRHR and significant impacts to the resource cannot be avoided via project redesign, a qualified archaeologist shall prepare a data recovery plan tailored to the physical nature and characteristics of the resource, per the requirements of the CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.4(b)(3)(C). The data recovery plan shall identify data recovery excavation methods, measurable objectives, and data thresholds to reduce any significant impacts to cultural resources related to the resource. Pursuant to the data recovery plan, the qualified archaeologist and Chumash representative, as appropriate, shall recover and document the scientifically consequential information that justifies the resource’s significance. The City shall review and approve the treatment plan and archaeological testing as appropriate, and the resulting documentation shall be submitted to the regional repository of the CHRIS at the CCIC, per CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.4(b)(3)(C).

Require in the
construction contract
that work be halted
upon discovery of an
archaeological resource.

Prior to construction Once City of Solvang
Retain a qualified
archaeologist to
evaluate the find and
prepare a data recovery
plan, if warranted.

During construction As needed
Contact a Chumash
representative if the
find is prehistoric.

During construction As needed
Review and approve the
archaeological testing
and treatment plan.

During construction As needed
Geology and Soils
MM GEO-1 Protection of Paleontological Resources
For projects that would involve excavation below 12 inches in depth in undisturbed soils underlain by sedimentary geologic units with high paleontological sensitivity, City of Solvang shall require projects to adhere to the following stipulations:
 A Qualified Professional Paleontologist, as defined by the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology (SVP), must be retained to conduct a paleontological resources analysis prior to the initiation of projects that may impact sediments with high paleontological sensitivity to determine whether there is a potential for the project to significantly impact paleontological resources.  If potential impacts to paleontological resources are found to be significant, then a Qualified Professional Paleontologist shall be retained to develop and implement a Paleontological Resources Mitigation Program (PRMP) to ensure that impacts to paleontological resources are mitigated. This PRMP may include:
 Worker Environmental Awareness Program (WEAP) training;  Pre-construction surveys;
 Paleontological construction monitoring;
 Retention of an on-call Qualified Professional Paleontologist;  Salvage, laboratory preparation, and curation of paleontological resources; and/or  Reporting to regulatory agencies.
 Should paleontological resources be encountered during any construction activity, all activity that could damage or destroy the resources shall be suspended until a Qualified Professional Paleontologist has examined the site. Construction shall not resume until the resource is properly evaluated and, if necessary, mitigation actions are carried out to address the impacts of the project on these resources.

Conduct a
paleontological
resources analysis
Prior to the initiation of projects that may
impact sediments with high paleontological
sensitivity
Once City of Solvang
Require that work be
halted upon discovery
of a paleontological
resource.

During Construction As needed
Retain a qualified
paleontologist to
evaluate the find and
identify appropriate
mitigation measures, if
warranted.

If paleontological resources are encountered As needed
Noise
MM NOI-1 Adopt and Implement Construction Noise Reduction Measures To minimize noise during construction, construction contractors shall implement the following measures for construction activities conducted within the City. Construction plans submitted to the City shall identify the following minimum measures on demolition, grading, and construction plans submitted to the City. The City Building Department shall verify that grading, demolition, and/or construction plans submitted to the City include these notations prior to issuance of demolition, grading and/or building permits.  Mufflers. During excavation and grading construction phases, all construction equipment, fixed or mobile, shall be operated with closed engine doors and shall be equipped with properly operating and maintained mufflers consistent with manufacturers’ standards.
 Stationary Equipment. All stationary construction equipment shall be placed so that emitted noise is directed away from the nearest sensitive receivers.
 Equipment Staging Areas. Equipment staging shall be located in areas that will create the greatest distance feasible between construction-related noise sources and noise-sensitive receivers.  Smart Back-up Alarms. Mobile construction equipment shall have smart back-up alarms that automatically adjust the sound level of the alarm in response to ambient noise levels. Alternatively, back-up alarms shall be disabled and replaced with human spotters to Implement noise
reduction measures
Prior to issuance of demolition, grading
and/or building permits
Continuously
during
project
construction
City of Solvang
Verify noise reduction
measures are included
on grading, demolition,
and/or construction
plans
Prior to issuance of demolition, grading
and/or building permits
Continuously
during
project
construction
183
Mitigation Measure Action Required When Monitoring to Occur Monitoring
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ensure safety when mobile construction equipment is moving in the reverse direction in compliance with applicable safety laws and regulations.
 Electrically-Powered Tools and Facilities. Electrical power shall be used to run air compressors and similar power tools and to power any temporary structures, such as construction trailers or caretaker facilities, where feasible.  Noise Disturbance Coordinator. The project applicant shall designate a “noise disturbance coordinator” responsible for responding to any local complaints about construction noise. The disturbance coordinator shall determine the cause of any noise complaint and shall require that reasonable measures be implemented to correct the problem. A telephone number for the disturbance coordinator and the City shall be posted at the construction site.  Temporary Noise Barriers. Erect temporary noise barriers, where feasible, when construction noise is predicted to exceed the acceptable standards (e.g., 80 dBA Leq at residential receivers, schools or other sensitive receptors during the daytime) or when the anticipated construction duration is greater than is typical (e.g., two years or greater) and there are sensitive receptors within 500 feet of the construction site. Temporary noise barriers shall be constructed with solid materials (e.g., wood) with a density of at least

1.5 pounds per square foot with no gaps from the ground to the top of the barrier. If a sound blanket is used, barriers shall be constructed with solid material with a density of at least 1 pound per square foot with no gaps from the ground to the top of the barrier and be lined on the construction side with acoustical blanket, curtain or equivalent absorptive material rated sound transmission class (STC) 32 or higher.

MM NOI-2 Adopt and Implement Vibration Control Measures and Screening Distances To reduce potential construction vibration impacts, the City shall require the following measures for applicable projects:
 Prior to issuance of a building permit for a project requiring pile driving during construction a) within 135 feet of fragile structures (historical resources, 100 feet of non-engineered timber and masonry buildings [e.g., most residential buildings], b) within 75 feet of engineered concrete and masonry (no plaster); c) a vibratory roller within 40 feet of fragile historical resources or 25 feet of any other structure; and/or d) a dozer or other large earthmoving equipment within 20 feet for a fragile historical structure or 15 feet of any other structure, the project applicant shall prepare a groundborne vibration analysis to assess and mitigate potential vibration impacts related to these construction activities. This vibration analysis shall be conducted by a qualified and experienced acoustical consultant or engineer. The vibration levels shall not exceed FTA architectural damage thresholds (e.g., 0.12 in/sec PPV for fragile or historical resources, 0.2 in/sec PPV for non-engineered timber and masonry buildings, and 0.3 in/sec PPV for engineered concrete and masonry). If vibration levels would exceed these thresholds, alternative uses such as drilling piles as opposed to pile driving, static rollers as opposed to vibratory rollers, and lower horsepower earthmoving equipment shall be used. If necessary, construction vibration monitoring shall be conducted to ensure FTA vibration thresholds are not exceeded.

Include vibration
control measures in
construction contractor
specifications.

Apply condition at time of permitting Once City of Solvang Verify vibration
reduction measures are
being implemented as a
standard condition of
approval.

During project construction Continuously
during
project
construction
Transportation
MM TRA-1 Achieve VMT Reductions for Development Projects In the interim, prior to the City establishing VMT thresholds for determining transportation impacts for CEQA, per Policy MOB-1.4 of the 2045 General Plan, for individual projects that exceed the City’s recommended threshold below the VMT average based on projectspecific VMT analysis, the City shall require the project applicant to implement project-level VMT reduction strategies. The City shall design strategies for the proposed project to reduce VMT from existing land uses, where feasible, and from new discretionary residential or employment land use projects. The design of programs and project-specific mitigation shall focus on VMT reduction strategies that increase travel choices and improve the comfort and convenience of sharing rides in private vehicles, using public transit, biking, or walking. VMT reduction strategies may include, but are not limited to, the following:
1) Provision of bus stop improvements
2) Pedestrian improvements, on-site or off-site, to connect to nearby transit stops, services, schools, shops, etc. by paying in lieu fees. 3) Bicycle programs, including bike rentals, storage, maintenance programs, and on-site education programs 4) Enhancements to the citywide bicycle network by paying in lieu fees 5) Parking reductions and/or fees set at levels sufficient to incentivize transit, active transportation, or shared modes 6) Cash allowances, passes, or other public transit subsidies 7) Employee-based housing options
Following the City’s establishment of VMT thresholds, individual projects shall be evaluated and mitigated in accordance with the procedures outlined in the City’s VMT Program.

Require project
applicants to implement
project-level VMT
reduction strategies.

Prior to the City establishing VMT thresholds Continuously, as needed
City of Solvang
Evaluate and mitigate in
accordance with the
procedures outlined in
the City’s VMT Program
Following the City’s adoption of VMT
thresholds
Continuously,
as needed
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Tribal Cultural Resources
MM TCR-1 Workers Environmental Awareness Program
The Applicant will invite a City-approved archaeologist to provide a cultural resources awareness training program (Worker Environmental Awareness Program [WEAP]) for all personnel involved in project construction, including field consultants and construction workers. The City will invite consulting Chumash Tribe(s) to provide a tribal cultural resources awareness training program WEAP for all personnel involved in project construction, including field consultants and construction workers. The WEAP training shall be conducted prior to any project-related ground disturbing activities in the project area. The WEAP will include relevant information regarding sensitive cultural resources and tribal cultural resources, including applicable regulations, protocols for avoidance, and consequences of violating State laws and regulations. The WEAP will also describe appropriate avoidance and impact minimization measures for cultural resources and tribal cultural resources that could be located at the project site and will outline what to do and who to contact if any potential cultural resources or tribal cultural resources are encountered. The WEAP will emphasize the requirement for confidentiality and culturally appropriate treatment of any discovery of significance to Native Americans and will discuss appropriate behaviors and responsive actions, consistent with Chumash tribal values.

Retain a City-approved
archaeologist and
Chumash tribe
consultants to provide a
cultural resources
awareness training
program.

Require attendance of
all personnel involved in
project construction.

Prior to any project-related ground-disturbing
activities in the project area
Once, as
needed
City of Solvang
MM TCR-2 Retain Chumash Tribal Monitors
For any project with the potential to encounter tribal cultural resources as determined through consultation, prior to issuance of any City Grading or Construction Permit, the Applicant or its designee shall work with consulting Chumash Tribe(s) to retain Tribal Monitor(s) to assist in the monitoring, mitigation, and curation activities for the specific project.

Where multiple areas of work are concurrently permitted for grading or disturbance, or where multiple pieces of equipment are operating within the same work area, there shall be multiple monitors, at least one for each area, and a sufficient number of Tribal Monitors shall be onsite to ensure all concurrent activities are monitored. The tribal monitors may be rotated to ensure that consulting Chumash Tribe(s) can observe the work areas. The City shall be responsible for creating monitoring schedules for the Chumash Tribal Monitors, and specifying the locations where they will monitor in consultation with the consulting Chumash Tribe(s).

Any interference with monitoring activities, removal of a monitor from duties , or direction to a monitor to relocate or cease monitoring activities by anyone other than the City shall be considered a non-compliance event. In the event a Chumash Tribal Monitor is dismissed from monitoring and the City determines this to be in error, the Chumash Tribal Monitor will be compensated for time lost by the Applicant. Any disagreements between the Project Archaeologist and Chumash Tribal Monitors shall be brought to the City’s attention for resolution.

The Project Archaeologist or consulting Chumash Tribe(s) shall notify the Applicant and the City by telephone or email, of any incidents of non-compliance with any cultural resource mitigation measure or condition within 24 hours of becoming aware of the situation. The Project Archaeologist and consulting Chumash Tribe(s) shall also recommend corrective action(s) to resolve the problem or achieve compliance with the mitigation measure or project condition.

In the event of a non-compliance issue, the Project Archaeologist shall write a report within two weeks after resolution of the issue that describes the issue, resolution of the issue, and the effectiveness of resolution measures. The report shall be provided in the next Monthly Compliance Report, which is submitted to the City. The Applicant or its designee shall also provide a copy of the noncompliance report to the consulting Chumash Tribe(s) when issued to the City.

Consult with Chumash
Tribes and retain Tribal
Monitors on a project
level basis, when
necessary.

Prior to commencement of construction
activities
Once City of Solvang
Retain a Project
Archaeologist to
monitor and report
noncompliance and
recommend corrective
actions.

Within 24 hours of becoming aware of the
non-compliant situation
As needed
MM TCR-3 Retain a Project Osteologist
For any project with the potential to encounter human remains as determined through consultation and/or during the preparation of archaeological assessments carried out under CUL-2, prior to issuance of any City Grading or Construction Permit, a Project Osteologist shall be retained by the Applicant or its designee to assist in the identification of any human remains. The Project Osteologist shall have the following minimum qualifications:
 A graduate degree in archaeology, forensic anthropology, or related discipline, with four years’ experience working with archaeological and Tribal Cultural resources in California. If an Osteologist with four years’ experience is not available, a candidate with no less than two years' experience may be considered.  A copy of the Project Osteologist’s qualifications shall be provided to the City for review and approval. The Project Osteologist’s qualifications shall be provided by the City to consulting Chumash Tribe(s) for review and comment prior to approval by the City.

Retain a Project
Osteologist to assist in
identification of human
remains
Prior to issuance of any City Grading or
Construction Permit
Once City of Solvang
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MM TCR-4 Develop a Cultural Resources Monitoring and Discovery Plan For any project with the potential to encounter cultural and/or tribal cultural resources as determined through consultation and/or the preparation of archaeological assessments carried out under CUL-2, prior to issuance of any City Grading or Construction Permit, the Project Archaeologist shall develop and submit a Cultural Resources Monitoring and Discovery Plan (CRMDP) to the City for review and approval. No ground disturbing activities can occur until the CRMDP is approved by the City. A draft of the CRMDP shall be provided by the City to consulting Chumash Tribe(s) and an independent third-party City-qualified archaeologist for a 45-day review and comment period. No ground disturbance can occur before approval of any construction-related permits by the City.

At a minimum, the CRMDP shall include the following:
 An introduction outlining the project description, purpose for monitoring, summary of resources studies or description of known resources, anticipated construction schedule, anticipated impacts to cultural resources, curation and treatment options. Permanent curation of Tribal Cultural Resources will not take place unless approved in writing by consulting Chumash Tribe(s) in compliance with CalNAGPRA (if applicable) along with any other applicable state and federal laws.  A description of the monitoring personnel involved with the Project (Project Archaeologist, Archaeological Monitors, and Chumash Tribal Monitors as appointed by consulting Chumash Tribe(s)) and their responsibilities, which shall include but are not limited to:
 A list of personnel involved in the monitoring activities and their availability;  A description of how the monitoring shall occur;
 A description of how the monitoring schedule will be developed and implemented given that different areas of ground disturbance may occur simultaneously;
 A description of what resources are expected to be encountered and where they are expected to be encountered; and  A description of monitoring reporting procedures.
 A description of the Cultural Resources Worker Environmental Awareness Program training and Tribal Cultural Resources Worked Environmental Awareness Program Training as provided by consulting Chumash Tribe(s) (see MM CUL-5) and when and how that will take place.
 Identification of the areas on the site, plus a buffer, where earthwork and site disturbance will be avoided. This should include the following:
 A description of the exclusion zone which shall be placed around each avoidance area and labeled as “Environmentally Sensitive Area” in all relevant project documents and engineering drawings, as needed. Environmentally Sensitive Areas shall exclude all construction equipment and personnel. Exclusion zone fencing shall be installed prior to any site disturbance (and later removed) under the direction of the Project Archaeologist in consultation with the City and consulting Chumash Tribe(s). The construction contractor will be responsible for maintaining the exclusion zone fencing throughout the duration of decommissioning.
 Definition and description of authorities, protocols, and procedures for halting and/or pausing work in order to record, evaluate, and identify any necessary treatment for any cultural resources encountered. This shall include protocols for ensuring all treatment or recovery of cultural resources is completed prior to work resuming in the area of the find.  Information that the Project Archaeologist, Archaeological Monitor(s), and the Chumash Tribal Monitor(s) shall have the authority to halt ground disturbing activities in the event previously unknown cultural resources or tribal cultural resources are encountered or if known resources may be impacted in a previously unanticipated manner as a result of that ground disturbing activity.  Details regarding the immediate cessation of ground disturbing activities within a minimum of 100 feet of the discovery of any cultural resources/tribal cultural resources or human remains and measures to delineate the area with clearly visible lath, flagging tape, or other marking. The City and the consulting Chumash Tribe(s) shall be consulted on a determination of significance. If potential human remains are identified, the project archaeologist, the project osteologist, City designee(s), and the consulting Chumash Tribe(s) shall be invited to be present during determination and development of protective measures of find until the Most Likely Descendant (MLD) is notified as appropriate.  Notification procedures of unanticipated discoveries of cultural resources/tribal cultural resources including human remains. The City and consulting Chumash Tribe(s) shall be notified of a discovery as soon as possible but no later than 24 hours of the find. If the discovery occurs on a Friday, the City can be notified the following Monday morning.  Specific in-field procedures for collecting, handling, and categorizing cultural resources, including human remains, encountered and a detailed process for evaluating unanticipated discoveries.  Development of a preliminary treatment plan which shall, at a minimum, include:
 A description of the treatment options for each type of resource which include, in order of priority: 1) preservation in place, where feasible; 2) the development of a treatment plan, archaeological testing, or data recovery; 3) reburial as close as possible to the location where all artifacts, remains, and/or funerary objects were found; and 4) reburial in a predetermined area. Any Retain a Project
Archaeologist to
develop and submit a
CRMDP.

Prior to issuance of any City Grading or
Construction Permit
Once City of Solvang
Ensure the consulting
Chumash Tribe and an
independent third-party
City-qualified
archaeologist receives a
copy of the CRMDP.

Prior to issuance of any City Grading or
Construction Permit
Once
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Mitigation Measure Action Required When Monitoring to Occur Monitoring
Frequency Responsible Agency or Party
Compliance Verification
Initial Date Comments
Chumash cultural materials disinterred as a result of specific projects shall be curated or reinterred upon determination by the City and consulting Chumash Tribe(s).
 The location of a secured, on-site storage area for recovered cultural/tribal resources shall be identified before any ground disturbing activities occur by the City and consulting Chumash Tribe(s).  In the event of a human remains discovery, the City and consulting Chumash Tribe(s), and Coroner’s office shall be notified no later than 24 hours of the find by the Applicant or their designee. The Coroner will contact the NAHC to identify the MLD of the human remains. The Applicant or their designee must follow HSC § 7050.5 and proceed under PRC § 5097.98 within 48 hours.

Once a MLD has been assigned, they and the applicant shall be given 48 hours from the time of notification to provide a proposed treatment option to the City. No photographs, removal of remains (unless already disinterred), nor further disturbance may take place without written approval of the MLD.
 For the predetermined area for reburial of human remains and cultural resources, the location must be surveyed in advance of its inclusion in the CRMDP, to determine if the location may be used (i.e., there are no biological and/or cultural/tribal resources sensitivities). The location must be under a deed restriction, protecting any reburials of human remains and artifacts in perpetuity.
 A commitment from the Applicant to pay all treatment costs for artifacts, funerary objects, and remains discovered, from discovery to reinternment, and for related documentation produced, if any, during cultural resources investigations conducted for the Project.
 Procedures for the Project Archaeologist, the Applicant, or its contractors to provide immediate notification to the City and consulting Chumash Tribe(s) and immediately cease any earthwork conducted outside the limits of the approved grading plan or land use permit as these activities require prior approval by the City.  Outline of reporting procedures, including monthly summary reports and an annual archaeological monitoring report to be submitted by the Project Archaeologist to the City and consulting Chumash Tribe(s) for review throughout the duration of Project disturbance activities. The City shall provide copies of the plan to the consulting Chumash Tribe(s) for review. Formal technical reports are required for any archaeological testing or data recovery conducted. Annual archaeological monitoring reports and any technical testing or data recovery reports shall be submitted to the City and Central Coast Information Center. Upon completion of all monitoring or treatment activities at Project completion, the Project Archaeologist shall submit a final report under confidentiality to the City summarizing all monitoring/treatment activities. The City shall provide copies of the confidential final report to the consulting Chumash Tribe(s).
 The Applicant or its designee(s) will consult with consulting Chumash Tribe(s) to develop measures for long term management of the resources including any routine operation and maintenance that may need to occur within culturally sensitive areas that retain resource integrity, including tribal cultural integrity, and including archaeological material, Traditional Cultural Properties, and cultural landscapes, in accordance with state and federal guidance including National Register Bulletin 30 (Guidelines for Evaluating and Documenting Rural Historic Landscapes), Bulletin 36 (Guidelines for Evaluating and Registering Archaeological Properties), and Bulletin 38 (Guidelines for Evaluating and Documenting Traditional Cultural Properties.

MM TCR-5 Soil Remediation Activities Affecting Previously Known Cultural and/or Tribal Resources The Applicant or its designee shall consult with the City prior to conducting any soil remediation activities which could affect native soils and provide the City with adequate information to determine compliance with CEQA Guidelines Sections 15162-15164 and PRC §21074.

The City shall consult with locally affiliated Chumash Tribe(s) prior to approving any soil remediation activities affecting previously known cultural and/or tribal resources.

Ensure Project
Applicants consult with
the City and provide
adequate information
on the activities when
the project will affect
native soils.

Prior to conducting any soil remediation
activities
As needed City of Solvang
Consult with locally
affiliated Chumash
tribes regarding soil
remediation activities.

Prior to approving any soil remediation
activities
As needed
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CEQA Findings of Fact and
Statement of Overriding Considerations
for the
2045 General Plan
Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Sections 15091 and 15093
and Public Resources Code Section 21081
The Final Environmental Impact Report (Final EIR) prepared by the City of Solvang (City) for the 2045 General Plan consists of the Draft EIR and Response to Comments on the Draft EIR. The Final EIR identifies significant environmental impacts that will result from implementation of the project. The City finds that the inclusion of certain mitigation measures as part of project approval will reduce all but the following significant impacts to levels that are less than significant: air quality, cultural resources, noise, and transportation. No feasible mitigation measures have been identified to reduce these impacts to a less-than-significant level or mitigation measures have been identified but would not reduce impacts to a level of less than significant; thus, these impacts will remain significant unavoidable impacts of the project. Based on substantial evidence in the FEIR and the record and consistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15093, the City Council finds specific economic, legal, social, technological or other benefits described in this document outweigh these unavoidable adverse environmental impacts.

As required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the City, in adopting these CEQA Findings of Fact and Statement of Overriding Considerations, also adopts a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP) for the project. The City finds that the MMRP, which is incorporated by reference, meets the requirements of Public Resources Code Section 21081.6 and CEQA Guidelines Section 15091(d) by providing for the implementation and monitoring of measures intended to mitigate potentially significant effects of the project. In accordance with CEQA and the CEQA Guidelines, the City adopts these Findings of Fact and Statement of Overriding Considerations as part of the project approval. Pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21082.1(c)(3), the City also finds that the Final EIR reflects the City’s independent judgment as the lead agency for the project.
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190
Table of Contents
1 Introduction....................................................................................................................................1 Statutory Requirements for Findings..............................................................................................1 Procedural Findings ........................................................................................................................1 Findings Required Under CEQA ......................................................................................................3 Record of Proceedings....................................................................................................................3 Findings...........................................................................................................................................4 2 2045 General Plan...........................................................................................................................5 Project Objectives...........................................................................................................................5 Project Description .........................................................................................................................5 Alternatives .....................................................................................................................................6 3 Topical Areas Determined to Have Less than Significant or No Impacts........................................8 Aesthetics .......................................................................................................................................8 Air Quality .......................................................................................................................................8 Biological Resources .......................................................................................................................8 Cultural Resources..........................................................................................................................9 Energy .............................................................................................................................................9 Geology and Soils............................................................................................................................9 Greenhouse Gas Emissions.............................................................................................................9 Hazards and Hazardous Materials............................................................................................... 10 Hydrology and Water Quality ...................................................................................................... 10 Land Use and Planning................................................................................................................. 11 Noise ............................................................................................................................................ 11 Population and Housing............................................................................................................... 12 Public Services and Recreation.................................................................................................... 12 Transportation ............................................................................................................................. 12 Utilities and Service Systems....................................................................................................... 13 Wildfire ........................................................................................................................................ 13 4 Topical Areas Determined to have Potentially Significant Impacts Mitigated to a Less Than Significant Level ........................................................................................................................... 14 Air Quality .................................................................................................................................... 14 Biological Resources .................................................................................................................... 15 191
Cultural Resources....................................................................................................................... 18 Geology and Soils......................................................................................................................... 20 Noise ............................................................................................................................................ 21 Tribal Cultural Resources............................................................................................................. 23 5 Topical Areas Determined to have Significant and Unavoidable Impacts................................... 28 Air Quality .................................................................................................................................... 28 Cultural Resources....................................................................................................................... 31 Noise ............................................................................................................................................ 33 Transportation ............................................................................................................................. 35 Cumulative Impacts..................................................................................................................... 36 6 Feasibility of Project Alternatives................................................................................................ 38 Alternatives Considered and Rejected ........................................................................................ 38 Alternatives Studied in the EIR .................................................................................................... 38 Alternative 1: No Project Alternative....................................................................................38 Alternative 2: No Old Lumberyard Project............................................................................39 Alternative 3: No Alamo Pintado Project ..............................................................................40 Alternative 4: Neither Project Implemented.........................................................................41 Environmentally Superior Alternative ......................................................................................... 41 7 Significant Irreversible Effects and Growth Inducement............................................................. 42 Significant Irreversible Effects..................................................................................................... 42 Growth Inducement .................................................................................................................... 43 8 Statement of Overriding Considerations..................................................................................... 44 9 Findings Regarding Recirculation of the Draft EIR....................................................................... 46 10 Conclusion.................................................................................................................................... 48 192
1 Introduction
Statutory Requirements for Findings
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15091 states that:
(a) No public agency shall approve or carry out a project for which an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) has been certified which identifies one or more significant environmental effects of the project unless the public agency makes one or more written findings for each of those significant effects, accompanied by a brief explanation of the rationale for each finding. The possible findings are:
(1) Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effect as identified in the final EIR.
(2) Such changes or alterations are within the responsibility and jurisdiction of another public agency and not the agency making the finding. Such changes have been adopted by such other agency or can and should be adopted by such other agency. (3) Specific economic, legal, social, technological, or other considerations, including provision of employment opportunities for highly trained workers, make infeasible the mitigation measures or project alternatives identified in the final EIR.

In short, CEQA requires that the lead agency adopt mitigation measures or alternatives, where feasible, to avoid or mitigate significant environmental impacts that will otherwise occur with implementation of the project. Project mitigation or alternatives are not required; however, where they are infeasible or where the responsibility for modifying the project lies with another agency.1

For those significant effects that cannot be mitigated to a less-than-significant level, the public agency is required to find that specific overriding economic, legal, social, technological, or other benefits of the project outweigh the significant effects on the environment.2 The CEQA Guidelines state in Section 15093 that:
“If the specific economic, legal, social, technological, or other benefits . . . of a proposed project outweigh the unavoidable adverse environmental effects, the adverse environmental effects may be considered ‘acceptable.’”
Procedural Findings
The City Council of the City of Solvang finds as follows:

Based on the nature and scope of the 2045 General Plan, State Clearinghouse No. 2023060448, the City Council of Solvang determined, based on substantial evidence, that the project may have a significant effect on the environment and prepared an EIR. The EIR was prepared, noticed, published, circulated, reviewed, and completed in full compliance with the CEQA Public Resources 1 CEQA Guidelines Section 15091 (a), (b). 2 Public Ressources Code Section 21081(b). 193
Code Sections 21000 et seq. CEQA and the CEQA Guidelines (14 California Code of Regulations Sections 15000 et. Seq.), as follows:
 Notice of Preparation and Initial Study. The City prepared and filed an NOP of the Draft EIR for a 30-day agency and public review period that began on June 15, 2023, and ended on July 14, 2023. The NOP was also sent to parties requesting notice. (CEQA Guidelines Section 15082; Public Resources Code [PRC] Section 21092.2).
 Draft EIR Prepared. The City prepared a Draft EIR and circulated the Draft EIR for a 46-day public review period that began on February 29, 2024 and ended on April 15, 2024. A corresponding Notice of Availability (NOA) was published to provide notification when the Draft EIR became available for public review. (PRC Section 21091).
 Notice of Completion (NOC). The City prepared and submitted a notice of completion to the State Clearinghouse with the Draft EIR on February 26, 2024. The NOC was also placed in the County Clerk’s office for 30 days, sent to parties requesting it. Public notice of the draft EIR availability was given and the City solicited input from other agencies and the public and respond in writing to all comments received. (PRC Section 21092, CEQA Guidelines Section 15087, PRC Section 21104).
 Final EIR. The City prepared a Final EIR, which was published and submitted to the State Clearinghouse on May 29, 2024.
 Certification of Final EIR. Prior to making a decision on a proposed project, the lead agency must certify that a) the Final EIR has been completed in compliance with CEQA; b) the Final EIR was presented to the decision-making body of the lead agency; and c) the decision-making body reviewed and considered the information in the Final EIR prior to approving a project (CEQA Guidelines Section 15090).
 Lead Agency Project Decision. The lead agency may a) disapprove the project because of its significant environmental effects; b) require changes to the project to reduce or avoid significant environmental effects; or c) approve the project despite its significant environmental effects, if the proper findings and statement of overriding considerations are adopted (CEQA Guidelines sections 15042 and 15043).
 Findings/Statement of Overriding Considerations. For each significant impact of the project identified in the EIR, the lead agency must find, based on substantial evidence, that a) the project has been changed to avoid or substantially reduce the magnitude of the impact; b) changes to the project are within another agency's jurisdiction and such changes have or should be adopted; or c) specific economic, social, or other considerations make the mitigation measures or project alternatives infeasible (CEQA Guidelines Section 15091). If an agency approves a project with unavoidable significant environmental effects, it must prepare a written Statement of Overriding Considerations that sets forth the specific social, economic, or other reasons supporting the agency’s decision.
 Mitigation Monitoring Reporting Program. When the lead agency makes findings on significant effects identified in the EIR, it must adopt a reporting or monitoring program for mitigation measures adopted or made conditions of project approval to mitigate significant effects.  Notice of Determination (NOD). The lead agency must file a NOD after deciding to approve a project for which an EIR is prepared (CEQA Guidelines Section 15094). A local agency must file the NOD with the county clerk. The NOD must be posted for 30 days and sent to anyone requesting notice previously. Posting of the NOD starts a 30-day statute of limitations on CEQA legal challenges (PRC Section 21167[c]).
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Findings Required Under CEQA
The City Council (the final decision-making body) of the City of Solvang (the CEQA Lead Agency) will determine whether to certify the EIR for the project. Because the Draft EIR identified a potentially significant environmental impact, the City Council must also make certain “findings” as part of its action to certify that the EIR has been completed in compliance with CEQA and to approve the 2045 General Plan. Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15091 and CEQA Section 21081, no public agency shall approve or carry out a project for which an environmental impact report has been certified, which identifies one or more significant effects on the environment that would occur if the project is approved or carried out, unless the public agency makes one or more findings for each of those significant effects, accompanied by a brief explanation of the rationale of each finding. The possible findings, which must be supported by substantial evidence in the record, are:
 Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effect as identified in the Final EIR.  Such changes or alterations are within the responsibility and jurisdiction of another public agency and not the agency making the finding. Such changes have been adopted by such other agency or can and should be adopted by such other agency.  Specific economic, legal, social, technological, or other considerations, including provision of employment opportunities for highly trained workers, make infeasible the mitigation measures or project alternatives identified in the Final EIR.

The decision-making agency to balance the benefits of a project against its significant unavoidable impacts when determining whether to approve a project. Further pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15093, if the benefits of the project outweigh its unavoidable adverse environmental effects, those effects may be considered acceptable provided the lead agency makes a statement of overriding considerations stating the specific reasons for considering a project acceptable when significant impacts are not avoided or substantially lessened.

Record of Proceedings
For purposes of CEQA and these findings, the record before the City Council includes the following:
 The Draft EIR and all appendices to the Draft EIR
 The Final EIR including an errata, comments on the Draft EIR and responses to comments, and all appendices to the Final EIR
 Public notices required by CEQA
 Studies conducted for the 2045 General Plan and contained in, or referenced by, the Draft EIR or the Final EIR
 For documentary and informational purposes, the Findings and Statement of Overriding Conditions, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, and other documentation relevant to planned growth in the area
 Additional items not listed above if otherwise required by law All records and materials constituting the record of the proceedings upon which these Findings are based are available at the offices of the City of Solvang, located at City Hall, City Clerk's Office 1644 Oak Street Solvang, CA 93463 (Public Resources Code Section 21081.6(a)(2)). 195
Findings
The Final EIR is incorporated into these findings in its entirety. Without limitation, this incorporation is intended to elaborate on the scope and nature of mitigation measures, the basis for determining the significance of impacts, the comparative analysis of alternatives, and the reasons for approving the 2045 General Plan in spite of the potential for associated significant and unavoidable adverse impacts.

For the purposes of these findings, the impact discussions include the relevant policies and actions, as well as the separate mitigation measures imposed to reduce the impacts where the policies did not result in a less than significant impact. In the findings that follow, impact numbers are provided.

The impact numbers correspond to sections of the Draft EIR that contain an expanded discussion of impacts. Please refer to the referenced impact sections of the EIR for more detail. 196
2 2045 General Plan
Project Objectives
Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15124(b), the EIR project description must include “[a] statement of objectives sought by the proposed project. The statement of objectives should include the underlying purpose of the project.” The 2045 General Plan is intended to achieve the following project objectives:

1. Support strategic land uses. Strategically accommodate future growth and change while preserving and enhancing the qualities that make Solvang a desirable place to live and work through strategic land use designations and zoning.

2. Foster a distinct community character. Maintain Solvang’s urban form and architectural style in order to maintain the city’s distinct community character.

3. Promote economic diversity and sustainability. Promote a vibrant business mix, supportive workforce development, 21st century communications infrastructure, and regional collaboration to connect Solvang to the broader economy and enhance the fiscal health of the community.

4. Improve mobility. Improve the mobility of people and goods within and through Solvang while emphasizing improving accessibility for visitors to park and move around Solvang.

5. Provide adequate facilities. Ensure the provision of adequate public facilities, including water, wastewater, stormwater, solid waste and recycling, emergency response, community health, parks and recreation, education, and medical services.

6. Conserve open space. Conserve and protect open space to preserve the scenic beauty of Solvang’s natural surroundings.

7. Ensure public safety. Provide a safe community through public safety services, resilient infrastructure, public awareness, preparedness, and action plans for both human-caused and natural disasters.

8. Support diverse housing options. Conserve and improve the quality of existing housing while facilitating the development of a range of housing types, densities, and affordability levels to meet the diverse needs of the community.

Project Description
The 2045 General Plan (“the project”) is a comprehensive update to the City of Solvang’s existing General Plan. The 2045 General Plan establishes the community’s vision for future development in the city through the planning horizon year of 2045. As part of the general plan update process, the City’s existing General Plan has been rewritten with updated goals, policies, and implementation actions that reflect the community’s current vision for Solvang. Upon adoption of the 2045 General Plan, the City would review its Municipal Code, including its Zoning Map, to ensure consistency with the 2045 General Plan.
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The project involves updates to all of the City’s existing General Plan Elements, except for the Housing Element which was updated as part of a separate project and adopted in 2023. The 2045 General Plan elements include: Land Use; Community Design; Economic Development; Mobility; Public Facilities, Services, and Infrastructure; Environment and Sustainability; and Safety.

The 2045 General Plan emphasizes infill development within underutilized land or on parcels built with existing uses. A focus is placed on increasing opportunities for new development on sites with existing on-site uses such as the Old Lumberyard Site Project, the village core, and the Alamo Pintado sites. The 2045 General Plan emphasizes maintenance of existing residential neighborhoods while revitalizing underutilized land with mixed-use development with primary implementation through amendments to the existing zoning ordinance. This emphasis is intended to establish more complete neighborhoods that meet the daily needs of residents by providing housing, jobs, shopping, and recreational opportunities in close proximity to one another. New development would occur primarily where existing roads, water, and sewer are in place and in a manner that would minimize the impact of development on existing infrastructure and services, as well as the need to expand infrastructure and services. The 2045 General Plan also provides the policy framework to guide future development toward land uses and zoning amendments that support walking, biking, and transit networks.

Alternatives
Based on the project objectives and anticipated environmental consequences, and pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6, the following project alternatives were selected for analysis:
 Alternative 1: No Project. The No Project Alternative would involve continued implementation of the City’s current General Plan. The No Project Alternative assumes the 2045 General Plan would not be adopted and therefore future development would be carried out in accordance with the City’s existing General Plan policies and land use designations through the horizon year of 2045. Thus, while growth in the region and in the Planning Area would still occur, any new development in Solvang would occur consistent with the existing land use designations and the allowed uses in each designation. Similarly, any new infrastructure would occur as envisioned in the existing General Plan.
 Alternative 2: No Old Lumberyard Project. The 2045 General Plan includes the Old Lumberyard site as an area of potential growth. Alternative 2 would involve implementation of the 2045 General Plan and exclusion of the Old Lumberyard site as an area of potential growth. Although the Old Lumberyard Project would not be included under Alternative 2, this would not preclude development from occurring on the site in the future. Under Alternative 2, the proposed Old Lumberyard Project would not be implemented, and the zoning and General Plan designations would not change from the existing designations, therefore defaulting to its existing General Plan Land Use designation and zoning as a primarily housing site.  Alternative 3: No Alamo Pintado Project. The 2045 General Plan would include the Alamo Pintado site as an area of potential growth. The No Alamo Pintado Alternative assumes no proposed high density residential would develop on the site. Although the Alamo Pintado Project would not be included under Alternative 3, this would not preclude development from occurring on the site in the future. Under Alternative 3, the proposed Alamo Pintado Project would not be implemented, and the zoning and General Plan designations would not change from the existing designations.
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 Alternative 4: Neither Project Implemented. The 2045 General Plan would include the Old Lumberyard and Alamo Pintado sites as areas of potential growth. The Neither Project Implemented Alternative would exclude both sites as areas of potential growth. Under Alternative 4, both the proposed Old Lumberyard Project and the Alamo Pintado Project would not be implemented, and the zoning and General Plan designations would not change from the existing designations. Although the Old Lumberyard Project and the Alamo Pintado Project would not be included under Alternative 4, this would not preclude development from occurring on these sites in the future.

Refer to Chapter 6, Alternatives, of the Draft EIR for the complete alternatives analysis. 199
3 Topical Areas Determined to Have Less
than Significant or No Impacts
The City finds that, based upon substantial evidence in the record, as discussed below, the 2045 General Plan’s impacts associated with the following topical areas would be less than significant.

Aesthetics
Impact AES-1. The 2045 General Plan would not facilitate development that would substantially obstruct scenic vistas, and this impact would be less than significant.

Impact AES-2. There are no designated state scenic highways in Solvang. Therefore, there would be no impact.

Impact AES-3. While development under the proposed project could change the visual character and quality of portions of the Planning Area, the proposed project contains goals and policies specifically designed to protect areas of high visual character and quality and improve areas of low visual character and quality. Impacts would be less than significant.

Impact AES-4. New development carried out under the proposed project would add new sources of light and glare to the Planning Area, but development would be required to comply with the City’s lighting regulations. Impact would be less than significant.

Air Quality
Impact AQ-2 (Operations). Operation of development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan would generate criteria air pollutant emissions with areas sources, energy sources and mobile sources.

Operational emissions generated from the 2045 General Plan would not exceed SBCAPCD operational emissions thresholds and impacts related to cumulatively considerable net increase in criteria pollutants during operation would be less than significant.

Impact AQ-4. The project would not create objectionable odors that could adversely affect a substantial number of people. Impacts related to odors would be less than significant.

Biological Resources
Impact BIO-2. Development facilitated by the proposed project would be subject to adopted federal, State, and local policies, including those the proposed project would implement, which would ensure that riparian habitat, wetlands, and other sensitive natural communities would not be substantially degraded or removed. Therefore, these impacts would be less than significant.

Impact BIO-3. Implementation of the proposed project would not substantially impede the movement of native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species, or conflict with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors due to existing City policies within the Municipal Code and implementation of policies proposed by the project. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant.
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Impact BIO-4. Development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan would be required to conform with applicable local policies and ordinances protecting biological resources. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant.

Impact BIO-5. Implementation of the proposed project would not conflict with the provision of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan. No impact would occur.

Cultural Resources
Impact CUL-3. Ground disturbance associated with development facilitated by proposed project could potentially disturb or damage known or unknown human remains. This impact would be less than significant with adherence to existing regulations.

Energy
Impact E-1. The proposed project would facilitate the development of buildings that would adhere to existing California energy standards and 2045 General Plan policies. Implementation of the 2045 General Plan would not conflict with or obstruct a State or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency. The proposed project would support transportation systems that rely less heavily on internal combustion vehicles and more on active transportation. The development facilitated by the proposed project would not result in a wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy and would not result in potentially significant environmental effects due to the wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy. Impacts would be less than significant.

Geology and Soils
Impact GEO-1. Construction of new development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan may exacerbate seismic hazards risk, such as liquefaction or landslides. Adherence to requirements of the California Building Code and implementation of 2045 General Plan goals and policies would minimize the potential for loss, injury, or death following a seismic event, landslide, liquefaction, or other geologic hazards. This impact would be less than significant.

Impact GEO-2. Construction of development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan would include ground disturbance that would result in loose or exposed soil that could result in the loss of topsoil.

Compliance with the Construction General Permit, the California Building Code, and City Municipal Code would minimize the potential for erosion and loss of topsoil and would ensure this impact would be less than significant.

Impact GEO-3. Development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan would occur where existing sewer systems are present. Therefore, implementation of the 2045 General Plan would not result in a significant impact to soils that are incapable of supporting septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems. No impact would occur.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Impact GHG-1. Although construction and operation of projects carried out under the 2045 General Plan would generate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, the 2045 General Plan includes policies and 201
actions that reduce GHG emissions and align with the goals of applicable plans, policies, and regulations related to GHG emissions. The 2045 General Plan would therefore not conflict with applicable plans, policies, and regulations adopted for the purpose of reducing GHG emissions.

Impacts would be less than significant.

Hazards and Hazardous Materials
Impact HAZ-1. Mandatory compliance with all applicable State, and federal laws and the proposed policies from the 2045 General Plan relating to the transport, use, and disposal of hazardous materials during construction and operation of future development facilitated by the proposed project would minimize the potential to create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, and disposal of hazardous materials or reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment.

Impacts would be less than significant.

Impact HAZ-2. Compliance with existing regulations would reduce the potential for a school and its occupants to be exposed to hazardous materials. Future development facilitated by the proposed project would be required to identify and clean-up hazardous materials sites in accordance with proposed policies and remove such hazardous materials in accordance with applicable State and local regulations. This impact would be less than significant.

Impact HAZ-3. The City of Solvang is not located on a site that is included on a list of hazardous material sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5. The 2045 General Plan includes a policy requiring testing and remediation of contaminated sites before development. The proposed project would also follow existing applicable regulations. Impacts would be less than significant.

Impact HAZ-4. Development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan could occur within the City’s current Sphere of Influence which partially overlaps contours established by the Santa Ynez Airport Land Use Plan. Adherence to regulatory requirements and implementation of 2045 General Plan polices would reduce potential impacts related to airport hazards to a less than significant level.

Impact HAZ-5. Development facilitated by the proposed project must comply with road standards and would be reviewed by the Solvang Emergency Services Coordinator and Fire Marshal to ensure development would not interfere with evacuation routes or impede the effectiveness of evacuation plans. Therefore, the proposed project would not impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan. This impact would be less than significant.

Impact HAZ-6. The 2045 General Plan includes policies to minimize wildland fire risk. Development facilitated by the proposed project would adhere to the California Fire Code and be reviewed by the Santa Barbara County Fire District to ensure people or structures would not be exposed to significant risk of loss, injury, or death involving wildland fires. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant.

Hydrology and Water Quality
Impact HYD-1. Compliance with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Construction General Permit, NPDES Industrial General Permit, SWPPPs, City regulations, and the 2045 General Plan’s proposed policies would ensure BMPs are implemented during new 202

construction and operations to minimize potential impacts to water quality. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant.

Impact HYD-2. Development associated with the proposed project would be required to comply with the Central Coast RWQCB, Solvang Municipal Code and the 2045 General Plan’s proposed policies, which would ensure a reduced impact on groundwater supplies. Therefore, the proposed project would not substantially decrease groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that the proposed project may impede sustainable groundwater management of the basin. This impact would be less than significant.

Impact HYD-3. Compliance with existing regulations and the 2045 General Plan’s proposed policies would ensure development facilitated by the proposed project would not substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of a site or area such that substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-site, flooding on- or off-site, exceedance of the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provision of additional sources of polluted runoff, or impediment or redirection of flood flows would occur. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant.

Impact HYD-4. Future development facilitated by the proposed project within flood hazard zones would adhere to the requirements of the Solvang Municipal Code and the policies proposed by the project’s Safety Element. With adherence to applicable regulations and the 2045 General Plan policies, the proposed project would not risk release of pollutants due to inundation. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant.

Impact HYD-5. Future development facilitated by the proposed project would implement State and local regulatory requirements, including the provisions of the Construction General Permit, the Industrial General Permit, and the City’s Municipal Code. Furthermore, the proposed project would also be required to comply with the Eastern Management Groundwater Sustainability Agency management practices which would minimize potential impacts to water quality in accordance with the programs in the Basin Plan. Therefore, the proposed project would not conflict with or obstruct the implementation of a water quality control plan. This impact would be less than significant.

Land Use and Planning
Impact LU-1. Implementation of the 2045 General Plan would provide for orderly development in the Planning Area and would not physically divide an established community. Impacts would be less than significant.

Impact LU-2. Implementation of the 2045 General Plan would be consistent with applicable regional land use plans, policies, or regulations such as SBCAG’s Connected 2050. Impacts would be less than significant.

Noise
Impact NOI-2 (Operation). New residential, commercial, industrial, and retail development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan would not involve substantial operational vibration sources such as railroads and subways. Therefore, operation of development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan would not result in substantial ground borne vibration and the 2045 General Plan’s operational groundborne vibration and noise impacts would be less than significant.

Impact NOI-3. The project would not expose people residing or working in the Planning Area to excessive noise levels related to airstrip/airport operation. No impact would occur. 203
Population and Housing
Impact POP-1. Implementation of the proposed project could accommodate more growth than envisioned in SBCAG’s latest Regional Growth Forecast. However, growth resulting from the 2045 General Plan is anticipated and would not constitute substantial unplanned population growth.

Further, the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments would update their growth projections to be consistent with the 2045 General Plan during the next planning cycle. Thus, the proposed project is designed for planned and orderly growth that improves the balance of jobs and housing. This impact would be less than significant.

Impact POP-2. Implementation of the 2045 General Plan would not displace substantial numbers of existing housing or people, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere.

Impacts would be less than significant.

Public Services and Recreation
Impact PS-1, PS-2, and PS-4. Future development facilitated by the project could increase the population in the Planning Area, which would result in an increase in demand for fire, police, and library services, which would potentially create the need for new fire, police, and library facilities.

Compliance with proposed policies in the 2045 General Plan and continued environmental review would minimize adverse environmental effects associated with the provision of new or physically altered fire, police, or library facilities. These impacts would be less than significant.

Impact PS-3. Development associated with the 2045 General Plan would add school-aged children to Solvang. However, facilities have adequate capacity and new development would be required to pay impact fees, which would result in less than significant impacts with regards to the provision of school facilities.

Impact REC-1. Future development facilitated by the project could increase the population in the Planning Area, which could increase the use of parks and recreational facilities. Adherence to the proposed 2045 General Plan policies and payment of mandatory parkland dedication fees would ensure impacts related to parks and recreational facilities would be less than significant.

Transportation
Impact TRA-1. The proposed project would not conflict with the Connected 2050 Regional Transportation/Sustainable Communities Strategy, Santa Ynez Valley Bicycle Master Plan, the Santa Ynez River Trail Alignment Study, or any other applicable program, plan, ordinance, or policy relevant to the transportation system. This impact would be less than significant.

Impact TRA-3. Development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan would comply with State, Santa Barbara County Fire Department, and City requirements related to transportation design safety and emergency access. With adherence to these requirements, the 2045 General Plan would not substantially increase hazards due to a geometric design feature or result in inadequate emergency access, and this impact would be less than significant. 204
Utilities and Service Systems
Impact UTIL-1. Development facilitated by the proposed project would increase demand for additional utility infrastructure; however, no substantial relocation or construction of utility services would be required to service the proposed project beyond existing conditions and the waste water treatment plant would have enough capacity to serve the 2045 General Plan buildout. Impacts would be less than significant.

Impact UTIl-2. The overall growth anticipated by the 2045 General Plan would generate additional water demand in Solvang, but adequate water supplies are available to serve additional development, and this impact would be less than significant.

Impact UTIL-3. The proposed project would not generate solid waste in excess of State or local standards or in excess of the capacity of local infrastructure. Growth and development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan would be developed in accordance with solid waste reduction statutes and regulations. These impacts would be less than significant.

Wildfire
Impact W-1. The 2045 General Plan includes policies to address emergency access, response, and preparedness. Therefore, the 2045 General Plan would not substantially impair an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan. This impact would be less than significant.

Impact W-2. The 2045 General Plan includes policies to ensure development would not exacerbate wildfire risk due to slope, prevailing winds, or other factors. Furthermore, development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan would adhere to the CFC and be reviewed by Santa Barbara County Fire District to ensure wildfire risk would not be exacerbated. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant.

Impact W-3. The 2045 General Plan would not require the installation or maintenance of substantial infrastructure that may exacerbate fire risk or result in temporary or ongoing impacts to the environment associated with fire risk. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant.

Impact W-4. The 2045 General Plan includes policies to ensure development would not exacerbate risks from flooding or landslides due to wildfire. Therefore, this impact would be less than significant.
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4 Topical Areas Determined to have
Potentially Significant Impacts Mitigated
to a Less Than Significant Level
These topical areas contain impacts of the 2045 General Plan that are reduced to a less-thansignificant level through the implementation of mitigation measures. Pursuant to California Public Resources Code Section 21081(a)(1) and CEQA Section 15091(a)(1), as to each impact, the City, based on the evidence in the record before it, finds that changes or alterations incorporated into the 2045 General Plan mitigate, avoid, or substantially lessen to a level of insignificance these environmental impacts of the Project. The basis for the finding for each impact is set forth below.

Air Quality
Impact AQ-1

FACTS IN SUPPORT OF FINDING
Growth resulting from the 2045 General Plan is anticipated and would not constitute substantial unplanned population growth. The Santa Barbara County Association of Governments would update their growth projections to be consistent with the 2045 General Plan during the next planning cycle.

Through Mitigation Measure AQ-1, the project would incorporate Santa Barbara Air Pollution Control District (SBAPCD) standard fugitive dust control measures that are required by the SBCAPCD Guidelines to be consistent with the Clean Air Plan. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant with mitigation.

Mitigation Measure AQ-1 SBCAPCD’s Construction Impact Mitigation The applicant shall require all construction contractors to implement the basic construction mitigation measures recommended by SBCAPCD to reduce fugitive dust emissions. These measures should be required for all projects involving earthmoving activities regardless of the project size or duration. Projects are expected to manage fugitive dust emissions such that emissions do not exceed APCD’s visible emissions limit (APCD Rule 302), create a public nuisance (APCD Rule 303), and are in compliance with the APCD’s requirements and standards for visible dust (APCD Rule 345).

Emission reduction measures will include, at a minimum, the following measures:
 During construction, water trucks or sprinkler systems shall be used to keep all areas of vehicle movement damp enough to prevent dust from leaving the site and from exceeding SBCAPCD’s limit of 20 percent opacity for greater than three minutes in any 30-minute period. At a minimum, this should include wetting down such areas in the late morning and after work is completed for the day. Increased watering frequency shall be required whenever the wind speed exceeds 15 miles per hour (mph). Reclaimed water shall be used whenever possible. However, reclaimed water shall not be used in or around crops for human consumption.
 The amount of disturbed area shall be minimized.
 On-site vehicle speeds shall be no greater than 15 mph when traveling on unpaved surfaces. 206
 A track-out prevention device shall be installed and operated where vehicles enter and exit unpaved roads onto paved streets. The track-out prevention device can include any device or combination of devices that are effective at preventing track out of dirt such as gravel pads, pipe-grid track-out control devices, rumble strips, or wheel washing systems.  After clearing, grading, earth moving or excavation is completed, the disturbed area shall be treated by watering, or using roll-compaction, or revegetating, or by spreading soil binders until the area is paved or otherwise developed so that dust generation will not occur. All driveways and sidewalks to be paved/surfaced shall be completed as soon as possible.  The contractor or builder shall designate a person or persons to monitor the dust control program and to order increased watering, as necessary, to prevent transport of dust offsite. Their duties shall include holiday and weekend periods when work may not be in progress. The name and telephone number of such persons shall be provided to the SBCAPCD prior to grading/building permit issuance and/or map clearance.  If importation, exportation, and stockpiling of fill material is involved, soil stockpiled for more than one day shall be covered, kept moist, or treated with soil binders to prevent dust generation. Trucks transporting fill material to and from the site shall be tarped from the point of origin.
 Schedule clearing, grading, earthmoving, and excavation activities during periods of low wind speed to the extent feasible. During periods of high winds (>25 mph) clearing, grading, earthmoving, and excavation operations shall be minimized to prevent fugitive dust created by onsite operations from becoming a nuisance or hazard.

FINDING
The City finds that implementation of Mitigation Measure AQ-1, which is hereby adopted and incorporated into the Project and which would require the implementation of best management practices recommended by SBCAPCD to reduce fugitive dust emissions, would reduce impacts related to the implementation of applicable air quality plans to a less than significant level. The City finds implementation of Mitigation Measure AQ-1 to be feasible and that the mitigation measure would reduce fugitive dust emissions during construction activities. The City hereby determines that any impacts related to conflicts with or obstruction of implementation of applicable air quality plans would be less than significant after implementation of Mitigation Measure AQ-1. Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15091 (a)(1), changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the proposed project that avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effect to the extent feasible.

Biological Resources
Impact BIO-1

FACTS IN SUPPORT OF FINDING
The 2045 General Plan could have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on special-status species. Potentially significant effects on candidate, sensitive, or special-status species would occur if temporary disturbance associated with construction projects or permanent impacts due to development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan would result in incremental direct loss of habitat, fragmentation of larger open areas and wildlife corridors, or 207
disturbance to protected species or loss of suitable habitat that support protected species. The 2045 General Plan’s Environment and Sustainability Element includes Policy ENV-1.1: Open Space Management, Policy ENV-3.1: Natural Resource Protection, Policy ENV-3.3: Minimize Impacts of Development, Policy ENV-3.4: Support Local and Regional Efforts, and Policy ENV-3.5 to minimize impacts to protected biological resources and provide opens spaces to support species.

Removal of vegetation, particularly trees and landscaping shrubs that may serve as perching or nesting sites for migratory birds could result in direct adverse effects on listed or special-status bird species would represent a potentially significant impact. However, implementation of Mitigation Measure BIO-1 (conduct pre-construction bird surveys and implement avoidance measures) would be required for future projects where mature trees and other habitat is present and construction activities are scheduled within early spring to late summer, and would be applied to future projects when applicable based on site conditions at the City’s discretion.

Although the Planning Area does consist largely of developed urban areas, large trees, abandoned structures, and buildings occurring throughout the city provide suitable roosting habitat for specialstatus bat species. Disturbance of maternity roosts by construction activities resulting in roost destruction or abandonment would be a potentially significant impact to bat species. However, implementation of Mitigation Measure BIO-2 (conduct pre-construction roosting bat surveys and implement avoidance measures) would be required for future projects where trees, abandoned structures, or other habitat for roosting bats is present and construction activities may occur during seasonal periods of bat activity, and would be applied to future projects when applicable based on site conditions at the City’s discretion.

Disturbance of underground nesting locations of the Crotch’s bumblebee by construction activities resulting in nest destruction or abandonment would be a potentially significant impact to the species and would potentially constitute violations of CESA. Such adverse effects on the species would be a potentially significant impact. However, implementation of Mitigation Measure BIO-3 (conduct pre-construction surveys and implement avoidance measures) would be required for future projects where direct ground disturbance is necessary, where suitable habitat for nesting Crotch’s bumble bee may be present, and direct ground disturbing construction activities may occur during seasonal periods of nesting bee activity, and would be applied to future projects when applicable based on site conditions at the City’s discretion.

Implementation of federal, State, and local regulations and policies, as well as Mitigation Measures BIO-1 through BIO-3 would ensure development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan would not have a substantial adverse effect on candidate, sensitive, or special-status species. Impacts related to a substantial adverse effect on candidate, sensitive, or special-status species would be less than significant with Mitigation Measures BIO-1, BIO-2 and BIO-3 incorporated.

Mitigation Measure BIO-1 Conduct Pre-construction Bird Surveys and Implement Avoidance and Minimization Measures
For construction activities initiated during the bird nesting season (February 1 through September 15, and as early as January 1 for raptors), involving removal of vegetation, abandoned structures, man-made features, or other nesting bird habitat, a pre-construction nesting bird survey shall be conducted no more than 5 days prior to initiation of ground disturbance and vegetation removal.

The nesting bird pre-construction survey shall be conducted on foot and shall include an area on and around the construction site at a distance determined by a qualified biologist, including staging and storage areas. The minimum survey radii surrounding the work area shall be 500 feet. The survey shall be conducted by a qualified biologist familiar with the identification of avian species 208
known to occur in the Solvang region. If construction lapses for 5 days or longer, the qualified biologist shall conduct another focused survey before project activities are reinitiated. If nests are found, an avoidance buffer shall be determined by the biologist dependent upon the species, the proposed work activity, and existing disturbances associated with land uses outside the site. The qualified biologist shall observe the active nest to establish a behavioral baseline of the adults and nestlings, if present. The qualified biologist shall monitor the active nests, while construction activities are happening to detect signs of disturbance and behavioral change as a result of construction impacts, such as noise, vibration, odors, or worker/equipment motion. If signs of disturbance and behavioral changes are observed, the qualified biologist shall stop all construction work causing those changes and until a larger avoidance buffer is established or until it is determined that the nesting period is completed. The buffer shall be demarcated by the biologist with bright orange construction fencing, flagging, construction lathe, or other means to demarcate the boundary. All construction personnel shall be notified of the buffer zone as an “Nesting Bird Area” and to avoid entering the buffer zone until a biologist determines that the nest is no longer active. No ground-disturbing activities shall occur within the buffer until the biologist has confirmed that breeding/nesting is completed and the young have fledged the nest. A report summarizing the pre-construction survey(s) shall be prepared by a qualified biologist and shall be included on project site plans and submitted to the City prior to the commencement of construction activities.

Mitigation Measure BIO-2 Special Status Bat Species Habitat Assessment Survey and Emergence Survey(s)
For future projects where trees, abandoned structures, or other habitat for roosting bats is present and construction activities may occur during seasonal periods of bat activity, construction activities shall occur outside the maternity season, as feasible. Should construction timing not allow for it, a special-status bat habitat assessment survey shall be conducted by a qualified biologist prior to any construction activities during the bat maternity season from April 1 through August 31. The survey will document any evidence of special-status bat species that may occur in proposed work areas through direct observation (e.g., roosting bats) and/or sign (e.g., bat guano). If no observance and/or sign of special-status bats are detected during these surveys, then construction-related activities may proceed. If observance or sign of special status bat species are detected during the survey, special-status bat species emergence survey(s) will need to be conducted.

Depending on potential species that may occur, surveys may need to be conducted until midnight.

Passive acoustic monitoring equipment will be utilized during the emergence surveys to identify bats to the species level. Any special-status bat species observed maternity roosting within or adjacent to the Project site should be avoided and provided a minimum buffer as determined by the qualified biologist (a 100-foot to 300-foot buffer is recommended) or in consultation with USFWS and/or CDFW prior to the commencement of construction. Should special-status bat species only be 209
day roosting and not maternity roosting, a bat mitigation and/or management plan should be developed for roost relocation. Mitigation and management plans would also require consultation with USFWS and/or CDFW prior to the commencement of construction.

Mitigation Measure BIO-3 Conduct Pre-construction Crotch’s Bumblebee Surveys and Implement Avoidance Measures
For construction activities located in vacant or undeveloped areas containing open grasslands, shrublands, or chaparral, a habitat assessment for Crotch’s bumblebee shall be performed. If it is determined that suitable habitat for Crotch’s bumblebee is present, a focused survey shall be performed during the species active flight period for Crotch’s bumblebee and peak blooming period of nectar and pollen sources (May 1 through July 31). The survey shall be conducted by a qualified biologist to determine presence of Crotch’s bumblebee no more than 5 days prior to initiation of construction activities. The Crotch’s bumblebee survey shall be conducted on foot and shall encompass the entirety of a project site and focus on areas that allow for the highest probability of detection, such as high abundance nectar or pollen sources and rodent burrows that may be used for breeding and nesting, subject to the discretion of the qualified biologist. Prior to the start of construction, the qualified biologist shall map areas with abundant nectar or pollen sources that have potential use by Crotch’s bumblebee and active nesting sites. A report summarizing the habitat assessment and pre-construction survey (if required) shall be prepared by the qualified biologist and shall be submitted to the City prior to the commencement of construction activities.

FINDING
The City finds that implementation of Mitigation Measures BIO-1, BIO-2, and BIO-3, which are hereby adopted and incorporated into the proposed project and which would require preconstruction surveys for birds, bats and crotch’s bumblebee, and implementation of subsequent avoidance and minimization measures, would reduce impacts related to substantial adverse effect on candidate, sensitive, or special-status species to a to a less than significant level. The City finds implementation of Mitigation Measures BIO-1, BIO-2 and BIO-3 to be feasible. The City hereby determines that any impacts related to substantial adverse effect on candidate, sensitive, or specialstatus species remaining after implementation of Mitigation Measures BIO-1, BIO-2, and BIO-2 would not be significant. Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15091 (a)(1), changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the proposed project that avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effect to the extent feasible.

Cultural Resources
Impact CUL-2

FACTS IN SUPPORT OF FINDING
Ground disturbing activities associated with development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan could result in disturbance or damage to archaeological resources. The 2045 General Plan Environment and Sustainability Element includes Policy ENV-4.1: Protect Archaeological Resources to preserve and protect site-specific archaeological resources. Additionally, existing regulations require project210 specific avoidance of archaeological resources, or if an archaeological resource cannot be avoided, mitigation would be implemented in accordance with applicable federal and State law regarding data collection and preservation of archaeological resources. However, there is potential for unknown historic-aged and prehistoric archaeological resources to exist throughout the Planning Area which could be damaged or destroyed during ground-disturbing activities. Mitigation Measures CUL-2, CUL-3, and CUL-4, which would require an archeological resources assessment, archaeological monitoring, and the evaluation of unanticipated discoveries. Implementation of applicable 2045 General Plan policies, State and federal regulations, and the Solvang Municipal Code would minimize or avoid potential adverse impacts to archaeological resources less-than-significant level by requiring the identification and evaluation of any archaeological resources that may be present prior to construction and by providing steps for the evaluation and protection of unanticipated finds encountered during construction.

Mitigation Measure CUL-2 Archaeological Resources Assessment Prior to approval of a project carried out under the 2045 General Plan that will involve ground disturbance activities in native or previously undisturbed soils that may include, but are not limited to, pavement removal, potholing, grubbing, tree removal, excavation or grading, an archaeological resources assessment shall be prepared under the supervision of an archaeologist that meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications Standards (PQS) in either prehistoric or historic archaeology. Assessments shall include a California Historical Resources Information System (CHRIS) records search at the Central Coast Information Center (CCIC) and of the Sacred Lands File Search maintained by the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC). The records searches shall characterize the results of previous cultural resource surveys and disclose any cultural resources that have been recorded and/or evaluated in and around the project site. A Phase I pedestrian survey shall be undertaken in proposed project areas that are on previously undeveloped land to locate any surface cultural materials. By performing a records search, consultation with the NAHC, and a Phase I survey, a qualified archaeologist shall be able to classify the project area as having high, medium, or low sensitivity for archaeological resources.

Mitigation Measure CUL-3 Archaeological Monitoring
For projects whose Phase I archaeological survey identifies archaeological resources that may be affected, the applicant shall retain a qualified cultural resource specialist to monitor construction activities that involve ground-disturbing activities greater than 12 inches in depth and occur within 60 feet of a potentially significant cultural resource. 211
Mitigation Measure CUL-4 Unanticipated Discoveries
In the event that archaeological resources are unexpectedly encountered during ground-disturbing activities, work within 50 feet of the find shall halt and an archaeologist meeting the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications Standards for archaeology (National Park Service 1983) shall be contacted immediately to evaluate the resource. If the resource is determined by the qualified archaeologist to be prehistoric, then a Chumash representative shall also be contacted to participate in the evaluation of the resource. If the qualified archaeologist and/or Chumash representative determines it to be appropriate, archaeological testing for CRHR eligibility shall be completed. If the resource proves to be eligible for the CRHR and significant impacts to the resource cannot be avoided via project redesign, a qualified archaeologist shall prepare a data recovery plan tailored to the physical nature and characteristics of the resource, per the requirements of the CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.4(b)(3)(C). The data recovery plan shall identify data recovery excavation methods, measurable objectives, and data thresholds to reduce any significant impacts to cultural resources related to the resource. Pursuant to the data recovery plan, the qualified archaeologist and Chumash representative, as appropriate, shall recover and document the scientifically consequential information that justifies the resource’s significance. The City shall review and approve the treatment plan and archaeological testing as appropriate, and the resulting documentation shall be submitted to the regional repository of the CHRIS at the CCIC, per CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.4(b)(3)(C).

FINDING
The City finds that implementation of Mitigation Measures CUL-2, CUL-3, and CUL-4, which are hereby adopted and incorporated into the proposed project, would reduce impacts related to archaeological resources to a less than significant level. The City finds that implementation of Mitigation Measures CUL-2, CUL-3, and CUL-4 is feasible. The City hereby determines that any impacts related to archaeological resources remaining after implementation of Mitigation Measures CUL-2, CUL-3, and CUL-4 would not be significant. Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15091 (a)(1), changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the proposed project that avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effect to the extent feasible.

Geology and Soils
Impact GEO-4

FACTS IN SUPPORT OF FINDING
Ground-disturbing activities associated with construction of development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan has the potential to impact paleontological resources, particularly in areas that have not previously been developed with urban uses, have the potential to encounter and damage or destroy paleontological resources that may be present on or below the ground surface in areas of high paleontological sensitivity. Sites B and C and the Old Lumberyard site are partially or entirely underlain by geologic units with high paleontological sensitivity. Development of these sites has the potential to significantly impact paleontological resources. The 2045 General Plan Goal ENV-4, and Policy ENV-4.1: Protect Archaeological Resources would help protect paleontological resources.

Mitigation Measure GEO-1 would require retention of a qualified professional paleontological for certain projects, development of a Paleontological Resources Mitigation Program if potential impacts to paleontological resources are found to be significant, and suspension of all construction 212
activity if paleontological resources are encountered. Impacts to paleontological resources would be less than significant with Mitigation Measure GEO-1 incorporated.

Mitigation Measure GEO-1 Protection of Paleontological Resources For projects that would involve excavation below 12 inches in depth in undisturbed soils underlain by sedimentary geologic units with high paleontological sensitivity, City of Solvang shall require projects to adhere to the following stipulations:
 A Qualified Professional Paleontologist, as defined by the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology (SVP), must be retained to conduct a paleontological resources analysis prior to the initiation of projects that may impact sediments with high paleontological sensitivity to determine whether there is a potential for the project to significantly impact paleontological resources.  If potential impacts to paleontological resources are found to be significant, then a Qualified Professional Paleontologist shall be retained to develop and implement a Paleontological Resources Mitigation Program (PRMP) to ensure that impacts to paleontological resources are mitigated. This PRMP may include:
 Worker Environmental Awareness Program (WEAP) training;  Pre-construction surveys;
 Paleontological construction monitoring;
 Retention of an on-call Qualified Professional Paleontologist;  Salvage, laboratory preparation, and curation of paleontological resources; and/or  Reporting to regulatory agencies.
 Should paleontological resources be encountered during any construction activity, all activity that could damage or destroy the resources shall be suspended until a Qualified Professional Paleontologist has examined the site. Construction shall not resume until the resource is properly evaluated and, if necessary, mitigation actions are carried out to address the impacts of the project on these resources.

FINDING
The City finds that implementation of Mitigation Measure GEO-1, which is hereby adopted and incorporated into the proposed project, would reduce impacts to paleontological resources to a less than significant level. The City finds Mitigation Measure GEO-1 to be feasible. The City hereby determines that any impacts to paleontological resources remaining after implementation of Mitigation Measure GEO-1 would be less than significant. The City hereby determines that any impacts to paleontological resources remaining after implementation of Mitigation Measure GEO-1 would be less than significant. to CEQA Guidelines Section 15091 (a)(1), changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the proposed project that avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effect to the extent feasible.

Noise
Impact NOI-2 (Construction)

FACTS IN SUPPORT OF FINDING
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Construction of development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan would temporarily generate ground borne vibration, potentially affecting nearby land uses. Vibration levels from typical equipment such as bulldozers and jackhammers would not exceed FTA thresholds for historic structures and residential buildings at a distance of 25 feet or greater. However, vibration levels from pile driving equipment and vibratory rollers may exceed FTA thresholds. The Goal SAF-11 and Policy SAF-11.4 in the 2045 General Plan would reduce construction vibration noise. However, because project level details are not currently available construction vibrations may be potentially significant. Implementation of Mitigation Measure NOI-2, which requires construction vibration control measures and screening distances for applicable projects, would reduce potential impacts from groundborne vibration by to less than significant levels by providing screening distances, within which vibration analysis and vibration reductions measures may be required to reduce project vibration impacts to less than significant levels. Construction impact related to groundborne vibration would be less than significant with implementation of Mitigation Measure NOI-2.

Mitigation Measure NOI-2 Adopt and Implement Vibration Control Measures and Screening Distances
To reduce potential construction vibration impacts, the City shall require the following measures for applicable projects:
 Prior to issuance of a building permit for a project requiring pile driving during construction a) within 135 feet of fragile structures (historical resources, 100 feet of non-engineered timber and masonry buildings [e.g., most residential buildings], b) within 75 feet of engineered concrete and masonry (no plaster); c) a vibratory roller within 40 feet of fragile historical resources or 25 feet of any other structure; and/or d) a dozer or other large earthmoving equipment within 20 feet for a fragile historical structure or 15 feet of any other structure, the project applicant shall prepare a ground borne vibration analysis to assess and mitigate potential vibration impacts related to these construction activities. This vibration analysis shall be conducted by a qualified and experienced acoustical consultant or engineer. The vibration levels shall not exceed FTA architectural damage thresholds (e.g., 0.12 in/sec PPV for fragile or historical resources, 0.2 in/sec PPV for non-engineered timber and masonry buildings, and 0.3 in/sec PPV for engineered concrete and masonry). If vibration levels would exceed these thresholds, alternative uses such as drilling piles as opposed to pile driving, static rollers as opposed to vibratory rollers, and lower horsepower earthmoving equipment shall be used. If necessary, construction vibration monitoring shall be conducted to ensure FTA vibration thresholds are not exceeded.

FINDING
The City finds that implementation of Mitigation Measure NOI-2, which is hereby adopted and incorporated into the proposed project, would reduce construction impacts related to ground borne vibration to a less than significant level. The City finds implementation of Mitigation Measure NOI-2 to be feasible. The City hereby determines that any construction impacts related to groundborne vibration remaining after implementation of Mitigation Measure NOI-2 would be less than significant. Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15091 (a)(1), changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the proposed project that avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effect to the extent feasible. 214
Tribal Cultural Resources
Impact TCR-1

FACTS IN SUPPORT OF FINDING
No specific tribal cultural resources were identified during consultation and no tribal cultural resources eligible for the California Register of Historical Resources or local register were identified as being impacted by the 2045 General Plan; however, potential tribal cultural resources are likely to exist throughout the Planning Area. Development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan may impact previously unidentified tribal cultural resources. Development facilitated by 2045 General Plan would undergo project-specific tribal cultural resource consultation pursuant to the requirements of PRC Section 21084 and 2045 General Plan Policy ENV-4.2: Collaboration with the Chumash. There is always potential for unknown tribal cultural resources to exist throughout the Planning Area which could be damaged or destroyed during ground-disturbing activities. Therefore, the 2045 General Plan’s impact on tribal cultural resources is potentially significant. Mitigation Measures TCR-1, TCR-2, TCR-3, TCR-4, and TCR-5 which require a Workers Environmental Awareness Program, retaining Chumash Tribal monitors and a Project Osteologist, a Cultural Resources Monitoring and Discovery Plan, and consulting of tribal soil remediation experts, would mitigate potential impacts to a less than significant level by requiring the identification and evaluation of any tribal cultural resources that may be present prior to construction and by providing steps for the evaluation and protection of unanticipated finds encountered during construction. Adherence to State and 2045 General Plan regulations and implementation of Mitigation Measures TCR-1, TCR-2, TCR-3, TCR-4, and TCR-5 would ensure impacts to tribal cultural resources would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated.

Mitigation Measure TCR-1 Workers Environmental Awareness Program The Applicant will invite a City-approved archaeologist to provide a cultural resources awareness training program (Worker Environmental Awareness Program [WEAP]) for all personnel involved in project construction, including field consultants and construction workers. The City will invite consulting Chumash Tribe(s) to provide a tribal cultural resources awareness training program (Worker Environmental Awareness Program [WEAP]) for all personnel involved in project construction, including field consultants and construction workers. The WEAP training shall be conducted prior to any project-related ground disturbing activities in the project area. The WEAP will include relevant information regarding sensitive cultural resources and tribal cultural resources, including applicable regulations, protocols for avoidance, and consequences of violating State laws and regulations. The WEAP will also describe appropriate avoidance and impact minimization measures for cultural resources and tribal cultural resources that could be located at the project site and will outline what to do and who to contact if any potential cultural resources or tribal cultural resources are encountered. The WEAP will emphasize the requirement for confidentiality and culturally appropriate treatment of any discovery of significance to Native Americans and will discuss appropriate behaviors and responsive actions, consistent with Chumash tribal values.

Mitigation Measure TCR-2 Retain Chumash Tribal Monitors For any project with the potential to encounter tribal cultural resources as determined through consultation, prior to issuance of any City Grading or Construction Permit, the Applicant or its designee shall work with consulting Chumash Tribe(s) to retain Tribal Monitor(s) to assist in the monitoring, mitigation, and curation activities for the specific project. 215
Where multiple areas of work are concurrently permitted for grading or disturbance, or where multiple pieces of equipment are operating within the same work area, there shall be multiple monitors, at least one for each area, and a sufficient number of Tribal Monitors shall be onsite to ensure all concurrent activities are monitored. The tribal monitors may be rotated to ensure that consulting Chumash Tribe(s) can observe the work areas. The City shall be responsible for creating monitoring schedules for the Chumash Tribal Monitors, and specifying the locations where they will monitor in consultation with the consulting Chumash Tribe(s).

Any interference with monitoring activities, removal of a monitor from duties, or direction to a monitor to relocate or cease monitoring activities by anyone other than the City shall be considered a non-compliance event. In the event a Chumash Tribal Monitor is dismissed from monitoring and the City determines this to be in error, the Chumash Tribal Monitor will be compensated for time lost by the Applicant. Any disagreements between the Project Archaeologist and Chumash Tribal Monitors shall be brought to the City’s attention for resolution.

In the event of a non-compliance issue, the Project Archaeologist shall write a report within two weeks after resolution of the issue that describes the issue, resolution of the issue, and the effectiveness of resolution measures. The report shall be provided in the next Monthly Compliance Report, which is submitted to the City. The Applicant or its designee shall also provide a copy of the non-compliance report to the consulting Chumash Tribe(s) when issued to the City.

Mitigation Measure TCR-3 Retain a Project Osteologist
For any project with the potential to encounter human remains as determined through consultation and/or during the preparation of archaeological assessments carried out under CUL-2, prior to issuance of any City Grading or Construction Permit, a Project Osteologist shall be retained by the Applicant or its designee to assist in the identification of any human remains. The Project Osteologist shall have the following minimum qualifications:
 A graduate degree in archaeology, forensic anthropology, or related discipline, with four years’ experience working with archaeological and Tribal Cultural resources in California. If an Osteologist with four years’ experience is not available, a candidate with no less than two years' experience may be considered.
 A copy of the Project Osteologist’s qualifications shall be provided to the City for review and approval. The Project Osteologist’s qualifications shall be provided by the City to consulting Chumash Tribe(s) for review and comment prior to approval by the City.

Mitigation Measure TCR-4 Develop a Cultural Resources Monitoring and Discovery
For any project with the potential to encounter cultural and/or tribal cultural resources as determined through consultation and/or the preparation of archaeological assessments carried out under CUL-2, prior to issuance of any City Grading or Construction Permit, the Project Archaeologist shall develop and submit a Cultural Resources Monitoring and Discovery Plan (CRMDP) to the City for review and approval. No ground disturbing activities can occur until the CRMDP is approved by 216
the City. A draft of the CRMDP shall be provided by the City to consulting Chumash Tribe(s) and an independent third-party City-qualified archaeologist for a 45-day review and comment period. No ground disturbance can occur before approval of any construction-related permits by the City.

At a minimum, the CRMDP shall include the following:
 An introduction outlining the project description, purpose for monitoring, summary of resources studies or description of known resources, anticipated construction schedule, anticipated impacts to cultural resources, curation and treatment options. Permanent curation of Tribal Cultural Resources will not take place unless approved in writing by consulting Chumash Tribe(s) in compliance with CalNAGPRA (if applicable) along with any other applicable state and federal laws.
 A description of the monitoring personnel involved with the Project (Project Archaeologist, Archaeological Monitors, and Chumash Tribal Monitors as appointed by consulting Chumash Tribe(s)) and their responsibilities, which shall include but are not limited to:
 A list of personnel involved in the monitoring activities and their availability;  A description of how the monitoring shall occur;
 A description of how the monitoring schedule will be developed and implemented given that different areas of ground disturbance may occur simultaneously;  A description of what resources are expected to be encountered and where they are expected to be encountered; and
 A description of monitoring reporting procedures.
 A description of the Cultural Resources Worker Environmental Awareness Program training and Tribal Cultural Resources Worked Environmental Awareness Program Training as provided by consulting Chumash Tribe(s) (see MM CUL-5) and when and how that will take place.  Identification of the areas on the site, plus a buffer, where earthwork and site disturbance will be avoided. This should include the following:
 A description of the exclusion zone which shall be placed around each avoidance area and labeled as “Environmentally Sensitive Area” in all relevant project documents and engineering drawings, as needed. Environmentally Sensitive Areas shall exclude all construction equipment and personnel. Exclusion zone fencing shall be installed prior to any site disturbance (and later removed) under the direction of the Project Archaeologist in consultation with the City and consulting Chumash Tribe(s). The construction contractor will be responsible for maintaining the exclusion zone fencing throughout the duration of decommissioning.
 Definition and description of authorities, protocols, and procedures for halting and/or pausing work in order to record, evaluate, and identify any necessary treatment for any cultural resources encountered. This shall include protocols for ensuring all treatment or recovery of cultural resources is completed prior to work resuming in the area of the find.  Information that the Project Archaeologist, Archaeological Monitor(s), and the Chumash Tribal Monitor(s) shall have the authority to halt ground disturbing activities in the event previously unknown cultural resources or tribal cultural resources are encountered or if known resources may be impacted in a previously unanticipated manner as a result of that ground disturbing activity.
 Details regarding the immediate cessation of ground disturbing activities within a minimum of 100 feet of the discovery of any cultural resources/tribal cultural resources or human remains 217
and measures to delineate the area with clearly visible lath, flagging tape, or other marking. The City and the consulting Chumash Tribe(s) shall be consulted on a determination of significance.

If potential human remains are identified, the project archaeologist, the project osteologist, City designee(s), and the consulting Chumash Tribe(s) shall be invited to be present during determination and development of protective measures of find until the Most Likely Descendant (MLD) is notified as appropriate.
 Notification procedures of unanticipated discoveries of cultural resources/tribal cultural resources including human remains. The City and consulting Chumash Tribe(s) shall be notified of a discovery as soon as possible but no later than 24 hours of the find. If the discovery occurs on a Friday, the City can be notified the following Monday morning.  Specific in-field procedures for collecting, handling, and categorizing cultural resources, including human remains, encountered and a detailed process for evaluating unanticipated discoveries.
 Development of a preliminary treatment plan which shall, at a minimum, include:
 A description of the treatment options for each type of resource which include, in order of priority: 1) preservation in place, where feasible; 2) the development of a treatment plan, archaeological testing, or data recovery; 3) reburial as close as possible to the location where all artifacts, remains, and/or funerary objects were found; and 4) reburial in a predetermined area. Any Chumash cultural materials disinterred as a result of specific projects shall be curated or reinterred upon determination by the City and consulting Chumash Tribe(s).
 The location of a secured, on-site storage area for recovered cultural/tribal resources shall be identified before any ground disturbing activities occur by the City and consulting Chumash Tribe(s).
 In the event of a human remains discovery, the City and consulting Chumash Tribe(s), and Coroner’s office shall be notified no later than 24 hours of the find by the Applicant or their designee. The Coroner will contact the NAHC to identify the MLD of the human remains.

The Applicant or their designee must follow HSC § 7050.5 and proceed under PRC § 5097.98 within 48 hours. Once a MLD has been assigned, they and the applicant shall be given 48 hours from the time of notification to provide a proposed treatment option to the City. No photographs, removal of remains (unless already disinterred), nor further disturbance may take place without written approval of the MLD.
 For the predetermined area for reburial of human remains and cultural resources, the location must be surveyed in advance of its inclusion in the CRMDP, to determine if the location may be used (i.e., there are no biological and/or cultural/tribal resources sensitivities). The location must be under a deed restriction, protecting any reburials of human remains and artifacts in perpetuity.
 A commitment from the Applicant to pay all treatment costs for artifacts, funerary objects, and remains discovered, from discovery to reinternment, and for related documentation produced, if any, during cultural resources investigations conducted for the Project.  Procedures for the Project Archaeologist, the Applicant, or its contractors to provide immediate notification to the City and consulting Chumash Tribe(s) and immediately cease any earthwork conducted outside the limits of the approved grading plan or land use permit as these activities require prior approval by the City.
 Outline of reporting procedures, including monthly summary reports and an annual archaeological monitoring report to be submitted by the Project Archaeologist to the City and 218
consulting Chumash Tribe(s) for review throughout the duration of Project disturbance activities. The City shall provide copies of the plan to the consulting Chumash Tribe(s) for review. Formal technical reports are required for any archaeological testing or data recovery conducted. Annual archaeological monitoring reports and any technical testing or data recovery reports shall be submitted to the City and Central Coast Information Center. Upon completion of all monitoring or treatment activities at Project completion, the Project Archaeologist shall submit a final report under confidentiality to the City summarizing all monitoring/treatment activities. The City shall provide copies of the confidential final report to the consulting Chumash Tribe(s).
 The Applicant or its designee(s) will consult with consulting Chumash Tribe(s) to develop measures for long term management of the resources including any routine operation and maintenance that may need to occur within culturally sensitive areas that retain resource integrity, including tribal cultural integrity, and including archaeological material, Traditional Cultural Properties, and cultural landscapes, in accordance with state and federal guidance including National Register Bulletin 30 (Guidelines for Evaluating and Documenting Rural Historic Landscapes), Bulletin 36 (Guidelines for Evaluating and Registering Archaeological Properties), and Bulletin 38 (Guidelines for Evaluating and Documenting Traditional Cultural Properties.

Mitigation Measure TCR-5 Soil Remediation Activities Affecting Previously Known Cultural and/or Tribal Resources
The Applicant or its designee shall consult with the City prior to conducting any soil remediation activities which could affect native soils and provide the City with adequate information to determine compliance with CEQA Guidelines Sections 15162-15164 and PRC §21074. The City shall consult with locally affiliated Chumash Tribe(s) prior to approving any soil remediation activities affecting previously known cultural and/or tribal resources.

FINDING
The City finds that implementation of Mitigation Measures TCR-1 through TCR-5, which are hereby adopted and incorporated into the Project, would reduce impacts related to tribal cultural resources to a less than significant level. The City finds implementation of Mitigation Measures TCR-1, TCR-2, TCR-3, TCR-4, and TCR-5 to be feasible. The City hereby determines that any impacts related to tribal cultural resources remaining after implementation of Mitigation Measures TCR-1, TCR-2, TCR3, TCR-4, and TCR-5 would be less than significant. Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15091 (a)(1), changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the proposed project that avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effect to the extent feasible. 219
5 Topical Areas Determined to have
Significant and Unavoidable Impacts
Air Quality
Impact AQ-2 - Construction

FACTS IN SUPPORT OF FINDINGS
Individual development projects carried out under the 2045 General Plan would generate construction and operational-related emissions. Construction activities such as demolition, grading, construction worker travel, delivery and hauling, and fuel combustion by construction equipment would temporarily create emissions of dust, fumes, equipment exhaust, and other air contaminants.

Such emissions may result in adverse impacts to regional air quality. Implementation of policies in the proposed 2045 General Plan Update, including Policy ENV 8.2: Particulate Emissions Reduction, Policy ENV-8.3: Air Quality Mitigation Measures, and Policy ENV-8.4 Mitigation Measures, and compliance with existing regulations would reduce construction emissions. Implementation of Mitigation Measure AQ-1 to reduce fugitive dust emissions would further reduce construction impacts related to cumulative considerable net increase in criteria pollutants. However, specific project-level details for construction are unknown at this level of planning and individual projects may exceed SBCAPCD thresholds. Therefore, construction impacts related to cumulative considerable net increase in criteria pollutants would be significant and unavoidable.

Mitigation Measure AQ-1 (refer to Impact AQ-1 above)

FINDING
The City finds that development facilitated by the proposed project would result in a cumulatively considerable net increase in criteria pollutants during construction. Implementation of Mitigation Measure AQ-1 would be reduce impacts related to cumulatively considerable net increase in criteria pollutants during construction, but not to a less than significant level . The General Plan and related EIR are planning level documents that look at overall potential impacts that might occur on a regional level. As future development is proposed, consideration will be given on a project-byproject basis addressing potential air quality impacts and identify specific mitigation to address those impacts, if necessary. At this point, however, future project-level details are unknown and individual projects may exceed Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District thresholds after mitigation. Although the City finds Mitigation Measure AQ-1 to be feasible, without project-level details, there are no known additional feasible mitigation measures that would be applicable to the 2045 General Plan that will reduce impacts related to cumulatively considerable net increase in criteria pollutants during construction to a less than significant level. Therefore, the City hereby determines that construction impacts related to a cumulatively considerable net increase in criteria pollutants would be significant and unavoidable.

OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS
Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines 15093 and as stated more fully in Section 7 Statement of Overriding Considerations, the City Council finds based on substantial evidence in the FEIR and the record that 220
specific economic, legal, social, technological or other benefits described in this document outweigh these unavoidable adverse environmental impacts to a cumulatively considerable net increase in criteria pollutants.

Impact AQ-3

FACTS IN SUPPORT OF FINDING
Development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan could result in construction activity that could produce toxic air contaminant (TAC) emissions in proximity to residential receptors. Development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan in accordance with land use and zoning regulations would not site land uses that typically generate TAC near sensitive receptors. Additionally, if the proposed commercial and retail uses site a new stationary TAC source, like an emergency generator, then said stationary source would be required to receive a permit, which would ensure that the stationary source does not present a health risk to existing nearby sensitive receptors. Therefore, operations under the 2045 General Plan would not result in exposure of existing sensitive receptors to significant carcinogenic or toxic air contaminants and would be consistent with CARB and SBCAPCD guidelines. The 2045 General Plan also includes Policy MOB-1.12: Air Quality Impact Reduction and Policy ENV-9.6: City Fleet Equipment that aim to improve air quality and minimize exposure to TAC.

Construction-related activities facilitated by the 2045 General Plan would result in DPM exhaust emissions from off-road, heavy-duty diesel equipment associated with site preparation (e.g., excavation, grading, clearing), building construction, and other construction activities. Mitigation Measure AQ-2 would require large construction projects to use equipment meeting U.S. EPA Tier 4 or higher for off-road heavy-duty diesel engines, which would reduce toxic air contaminant emissions. However, Tier 4 or higher emission standard equipment cannot be guaranteed to be commercially available. As a result, the construction of certain individual housing development projects – those with three or more units and a construction duration longer than two months that take place within 1,000 feet of sensitive receptors – could result in potentially significant health risk impacts if construction equipment does not meet U.S. EPA Tier 4 or higher for off-road heavy-duty diesel engines. Therefore, impacts related to exposure of sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations would be significant and unavoidable.

Mitigation Measure AQ-2 Construction Equipment Exhaust Control Measures For individual residential projects facilitated by the 2045 General Plan that would develop three or more units, would involve demolition, mass grading, or excavation and trenching phases longer than two months and would be located within 1,000 feet of existing sensitive receptors, the City shall enforce a project specific Condition of Approval requiring the following:

Off-road heavy-duty diesel equipment with engines certified to meet U.S. EPA Tier 4 emission standards should be used to the maximum extent feasible.  On-road heavy-duty equipment with model year 2010 engines or newer should be used to the maximum extent feasible.
 Diesel powered equipment should be replaced by electric equipment whenever feasible.

Electric auxiliary power units should be used to the maximum extent feasible.  Equipment/vehicles using alternative fuels, such as compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural gas (LNG), propane or renewable diesel, should be used on-site where feasible.  Catalytic converters shall be installed on gasoline-powered equipment, if feasible. 221
 All construction equipment shall be maintained in tune per the manufacturer’s specifications.
 The engine size of construction equipment shall be the minimum practical size.  The number of construction equipment operating simultaneously shall be minimized through efficient management practices to ensure that the smallest practical number is operating at any one time.
 Construction worker trips should be minimized by requiring carpooling and by providing for lunch onsite.
 Construction truck trips should be scheduled during non-peak hours to reduce peak hour emissions whenever feasible.
 Proposed truck routes should minimize impacts to residential communities and sensitive receptors.
 Construction staging areas should be located away from sensitive receptors such that exhaust and other construction emissions do not enter the fresh air intakes to buildings, air conditioners, and windows.

FINDING
The City finds that development facilitated by the proposed project would result in increased toxic air contaminant emissions in proximity to residential receptors. Implementation of Mitigation Measure AQ-2, which is hereby adopted and incorporated into the Project, would reduce impacts related to exposure of sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations, but not to a less than significant level. The General Plan and related EIR are planning level documents that look at overall potential impacts that might occur on a regional level. As future development is proposed, consideration will be given on a project-by-project basis addressing potential air quality impacts and identify specific mitigation to address those impacts, if necessary. At this point, however, future project-level details are unknown and individual projects may exceed Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District thresholds after mitigation. Although the City finds Mitigation Measure AQ-2 to be feasible, without project-level details, there are no known additional feasible mitigation measures that would be applicable to the 2045 General Plan that will reduce impacts related to exposure of sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations to a less than significant level. Therefore, the City hereby determines that impacts related to exposure of sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations would be significant and unavoidable.

OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS
Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines 15093 and as stated more fully in Section 7 Statement of Overriding Considerations, the City Council finds based on substantial evidence in the FEIR and the record that specific economic, legal, social, technological or other benefits described in this document outweigh these unavoidable adverse environmental impacts related to related to exposure of sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations.
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Cultural Resources
Impact CUL-1

FACTS IN SUPPORT OF FINDING
Development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan has the potential to cause substantial adverse changes to the significance of historical resources. Currently, there are no development plans included in the 2045 General Plan which would substantially alter the historical resource; however, the 2045 General Plan could facilitate development on parcels containing buildings that meet the age threshold (45 years or older) for potential historical resources, pursuant to CEQA.

Implementation of Policies ENV-5.1 and ENV-5.2 and compliance with applicable federal and state law would reduce impacts to historical resources. Implementation of Mitigation Measure CUL-1, would reduce impacts to historical resources by identifying and evaluating significant historical resources and managing relocation, rehabilitation, or alteration in compliance with the Standards as applicable. Nonetheless, even with implementation of Mitigation Measure CUL-1, existing and eligible historical resources could still be materially impaired by future development that would be carried out under the 2045 General Plan. Impacts to historical resources would be significant and unavoidable.

Mitigation Measure CUL-1 Historical Resources
Prior to project approval of a development project carried out under the 2045 General Plan, City staff shall determine the age of the structure(s) present. If a structure is determined to be 45 years of age or older, the project applicant shall submit preliminary information (i.e., photographs) identifying any historical age features (i.e., structures 45 years of age or older) proposed to be substantially altered, relocated, or demolished. If a building, structure, object, or other built environment feature that is 45 years of age or older is proposed to be substantially altered, relocated, or demolished, and after reviewing this documentation, the Planning Manager or their designee, supported by an architectural historian as needed, shall make a preliminary determination as to whether the building qualifies as a historical resource. “Historical resource” shall mean a property listed or found eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places, the California Register of Historical Resources, or identified as historically and/or architecturally significant by the City pursuant to Section 15064.5(a) of the CEQA Guidelines. A property that is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places or the California Register of Historical Resources must retain its historic integrity and meet one of the following eligibility criteria:
 Is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history.
 Is associated with the lives of persons significant in our past.  Embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of construction, or represents the work of a master, or possesses high artistic values, or represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction.  Has yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in history or prehistory.

The evaluation shall be prepared by a qualified architectural historian or historian who meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications Standards (PQS) in architectural history or history. The qualified architectural historian or historian shall conduct an intensive-level evaluation 223
in accordance with the guidelines and best practices promulgated by the State Office of Historic Preservation to identify potential historical resources within the proposed development site. All properties 45 years of age or older shall be evaluated within their historic context and documented in a report meeting the State Office of Historic Preservation guidelines. All evaluated properties shall be documented on Department of Parks and Recreation Series 523 Forms. The report will be submitted to the City for review and concurrence. If the property is already listed in the NRHP or CRHR, the historical resources evaluation described above shall not be required.

If historical resources are identified through the survey and evaluation within the development site of a proposed development, efforts shall be made to the extent feasible to ensure that impacts are mitigated. Application of mitigation shall generally be overseen by a qualified architectural historian or historic architect meeting the PQS, unless unnecessary in the circumstances (e.g., preservation in place). In conjunction with a development application that may affect the historical resource, the historical resources evaluation report shall also identify and specify the treatment of characterdefining features and construction activities.

FINDING
The City finds that development facilitated by the proposed project could have an adverse effect on historical resources. Implementation of Mitigation Measure CUL-1, which is hereby adopted and incorporated into the Project, would reduce and, in some cases, avoid potential adverse impacts on historic resources. However, even with implementation of mitigation, the demolition of historic resources could still be possible. Although the City finds Mitigation Measure CUL-1 to be feasible, there are no additional feasible mitigation measures that will reduce this impact to a less than significant level. Accordingly, the City hereby determines that impacts related to historical resources would be significant and unavoidable.
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Overriding Considerations
Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines 15093 and as stated more fully in Section 7 Statement of Overriding Considerations, the City Council finds based on substantial evidence in the FEIR and the record that specific economic, legal, social, technological or other benefits described in this document outweigh these unavoidable adverse environmental impacts to cultural resources, and specifically historical resources.

Noise
Impact NOI-1

FACTS IN SUPPORT OF FINDING
Development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan would introduce new noise sources, such as air conditioning units, loading dock activities, outdoor restaurant dining and music activities, and parking lot vehicle movements, and contribute to increases in operational noise. The 2045 General Plan includes Updated Goal SAF-11, Updated SAF-11.2, New Policy SAF-11.3, Goal 1, Policy 1.1, Action Item B, Action Item C, Goal 3, Policy 3.1, and Action Item A to ensure noise from new development stationary sources is analyzed and mitigated to acceptable levels prior to individual project approval. Implementation of the 2045 General Plan would allow additional development to occur in the Planning Area, which would generate new vehicle trips that could incrementally increase the exposure of land uses along roadways to operational roadway vehicle noise. The 2045 General Plan includes Goal SAF-11, SAF 11.1 - Roadway Project Noise Mitigation, Policy SAF-11.3, Goal 2, Policy 2.1, Action Item A, and Policy 2.2 to reduce roadway vehicle noise Policy MOB-1.11:

Regional Coordination for Roadway Management, Policy MOB-2.7: New Facilities in Existing Neighborhoods, Policy MOB-4.1: Complete Streets, Policy MOB-5.1: VMT Management, and Policy MOB-5.2: TDM to encourage alternative travel, equitable access, and a reduction in vehicle trips.

Stationary operational and mobile noise would not exceed standards and operational impacts related to a substantial temporary or permanent increase in ambient noise levels would be less than significant.

Construction of individual projects facilitated by the 2045 General Plan would temporarily increase noise levels, potentially affecting nearby noise-sensitive land uses due to noise from demolition, site preparation, grading, building construction, and paving activities. Implementation of Mitigation Measure NOI-1 and the continued regulation of noise, consistent with the City Code and implementation of policies from the 2045 General Plan, including Goal SAF-11, Goal 3, Policy 3.2, and Action Item A would minimize disturbance to adjacent land uses. However, as exact details of future project-specific construction activities are unknown at this time, Mitigation Measure NOI-1 would not ensure that short-term construction noise impacts would be reduced below the significance threshold of 80 dBA Leq during the daytime at residential uses and other sensitive receptors in all cases. The 2045 General Plan’s short-term construction noise impacts related to a substantial temporary or permanent increase in ambient noise levels would be significant and unavoidable even with mitigation.

Mitigation Measure NOI-1 Adopt and Implement Construction Noise Reduction Measures
To minimize noise during construction, construction contractors shall implement the following measures for construction activities conducted within the City. Construction plans submitted to the 225
City shall identify the following minimum measures on demolition, grading, and construction plans submitted to the City. The City Building Department shall verify that grading, demolition, and/or construction plans submitted to the City include these notations prior to issuance of demolition, grading and/or building permits.
 Mufflers. During excavation and grading construction phases, all construction equipment, fixed or mobile, shall be operated with closed engine doors and shall be equipped with properly operating and maintained mufflers consistent with manufacturers’ standards.  Stationary Equipment. All stationary construction equipment shall be placed so that emitted noise is directed away from the nearest sensitive receivers.  Equipment Staging Areas. Equipment staging shall be located in areas that will create the greatest distance feasible between construction-related noise sources and noise-sensitive receivers.
 Smart Back-up Alarms. Mobile construction equipment shall have smart back-up alarms that automatically adjust the sound level of the alarm in response to ambient noise levels.

Alternatively, back-up alarms shall be disabled and replaced with human spotters to ensure safety when mobile construction equipment is moving in the reverse direction in compliance with applicable safety laws and regulations.
 Electrically-Powered Tools and Facilities. Electrical power shall be used to run air compressors and similar power tools and to power any temporary structures, such as construction trailers or caretaker facilities, where feasible.
 Noise Disturbance Coordinator. The project applicant shall designate a “noise disturbance coordinator” responsible for responding to any local complaints about construction noise. The disturbance coordinator shall determine the cause of any noise complaint and shall require that reasonable measures be implemented to correct the problem. A telephone number for the disturbance coordinator and the City shall be posted at the construction site.  Temporary Noise Barriers. Erect temporary noise barriers, where feasible, when construction noise is predicted to exceed the acceptable standards (e.g., 80 dBA Leq at residential receivers, schools or other sensitive receptors during the daytime) or when the anticipated construction duration is greater than is typical (e.g., two years or greater) and there are sensitive receptors within 500 feet of the construction site. Temporary noise barriers shall be constructed with solid materials (e.g., wood) with a density of at least 1.5 pounds per square foot with no gaps from the ground to the top of the barrier. If a sound blanket is used, barriers shall be constructed with solid material with a density of at least 1 pound per square foot with no gaps from the ground to the top of the barrier and be lined on the construction side with acoustical blanket, curtain or equivalent absorptive material rated sound transmission class (STC) 32 or higher.

FINDING
Noise impacts from operational use of residential-scale HVAC units, industrial equipment, and other stationary noise sources would be reduced by policies and actions in the 2045 General Plan.

Therefore, the 2045 General Plan’s stationary operational noise impact would be less than significant. The City finds that potential construction of development projects facilitated by the proposed project could temporarily increase noise levels which could affect noise-sensitive land uses. Implementation of Mitigation Measure NOI-1, which is hereby adopted and incorporated into the Project, would reduce impacts to related to a substantial temporary or permanent increase in ambient noise levels, but not to a less than significant level. Considering that specific project-level details are unknown at this level of planning, individual projects may exceed noise thresholds after 226
mitigation. Proposed future development will be looked at on a project-by-project case to determine whether potential construction related noise impacts will occur and mitigation incorporated that is site specific, if needed. Although the City finds Mitigation Measure NOI-1 to be feasible, without project-level details, there are no additional feasible mitigation measures that would be applicable to the 2045 General Plan that will reduce impacts related to a substantial temporary or permanent increase in ambient noise levels to a less than significant level. Therefore, the City hereby determines that impacts related to a substantial temporary or permanent increase in ambient noise levels from construction would be significant and unavoidable.

OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS
Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines 15093 and as stated more fully in Section 7 Statement of Overriding Considerations, the City Council finds based on substantial evidence in the FEIR and the record that specific economic, legal, social, technological or other benefits described in this document outweigh these unavoidable adverse environmental impacts related to a substantial temporary or permanent increase in ambient noise levels.

Transportation
Impact TRA-2

FACTS IN SUPPORT OF FINDING
The future year citywide vehicle miles traveled (VMT) per Capita and VMT per Employee with implementation of the 2045 General Plan would not achieve at least a 15 percent reduction below the existing regional average and therefore would exceed the threshold of significance. Mitigation Measure TRA-1 would require applicants of individual projects to with potentially significant VMT impacts to implement VMT reduction strategies. However, there is uncertainty in the feasibility and timing of implementing VMT reduction strategies for individual projects and the effectiveness of reducing an individual project’s VMT impact is speculative at this programmatic stage. Individual developments facilitated by the 2045 General Plan may exceed VMT thresholds. As a result, the 2045 General Plan would be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3, subdivision (b).

Even with implementation of Mitigation Measure TRA-1, this impact would be significant and unavoidable.

Mitigation Measure TRA-1 Achieve VMT Reductions for Development Projects In the interim, prior to the City establishing VMT thresholds for determining transportation impacts for CEQA, per Policy MOB-1.4 of the 2045 General Plan, for individual projects that exceed the City’s recommended threshold below the VMT average based on project-specific VMT analysis, the City shall require the project applicant to implement project-level VMT reduction strategies. The City shall design strategies for the proposed project to reduce VMT from existing land uses, where feasible, and from new discretionary residential or employment land use projects. The design of programs and project-specific mitigation shall focus on VMT reduction strategies that increase travel choices and improve the comfort and convenience of sharing rides in private vehicles, using public transit, biking, or walking. VMT reduction strategies may include, but are not limited to, the following:
1) Provision of bus stop improvements
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2) Pedestrian improvements, on-site or off-site, to connect to nearby transit stops, services, schools, shops, etc. by paying in lieu fees.
3) Bicycle programs, including bike rentals, storage, maintenance programs, and on-site education programs
4) Enhancements to the citywide bicycle network by paying in lieu fees 5) Parking reductions and/or fees set at levels sufficient to incentivize transit, active transportation, or shared modes
6) Cash allowances, passes, or other public transit subsidies 7) Employee-based housing options
Following the City’s establishment of VMT thresholds, individual projects shall be evaluated and mitigated in accordance with the procedures outlined in the City’s VMT Program.

FINDING
The City finds that the proposed project would be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines section 15064.3, subdivision (b). Adoption and implementation of the City’s VMT Analysis Guidelines in accordance with Policy MOB-1.4 would ensure that development facilitated by the programmatic project would generally be consistent with SB 743. However, individual projects may exceed the thresholds in the adopted VMT Analysis Guidelines and there may not be feasible mitigation to reduce VMT below thresholds. Implementation of Mitigation Measure TRA-1, which is hereby adopted and incorporated into the Project, would reduce VMT impacts, but not to a less than significant level because the effectiveness of VMT reduction measures is uncertain and speculative at this stage. Any future proposed projects will be looked at on a case-by-case basis, such as any development of the old lumber yards and the Alamo Pintado apartment project, and these projects would contain project specific mitigation, if required. Considering that specific project-level details are unknown at this level of planning, individual projects may exceed VMT thresholds after mitigation. Therefore, although the City finds Mitigation Measure TRA-1 to be feasible, without project-level details, there are no additional feasible mitigation measures that would be applicable to the 2045 General Plan that would reduce this impact to a less than significant level. Therefore, the City hereby determines that the project’s impacts related to VMT would be significant and unavoidable.

Overriding Considerations
Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines 15093 and as stated more fully in Section 7 Statement of Overriding Considerations, the City Council finds based on substantial evidence in the FEIR and the record that specific economic, legal, social, technological or other benefits described in this document outweigh these unavoidable adverse environmental impacts related to transportation.

Cumulative Impacts
With the exception of the unavoidable impacts to air quality, cultural resources, noise, and transportation, the 2045 General Plan would have no impact, a less than significant impact, or a less than significant impact after mitigation with respect to all environmental issues. 228
Because the project is a general plan, including related long-range planning components, cumulative impacts are treated somewhat differently than would be the case for a project-specific development. CEQA Guidelines Section 15130 provides the following direction relative to cumulative impact analysis and states that the following elements are necessary for an adequate discussion of environmental impacts:

A summary of projections contained in an adopted local, regional or statewide plan, or related planning document, that describes or evaluates conditions contributing to the cumulative effect. Such plans may include: a general plan, regional transportation plan, or plans for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. A summary of projections may also be contained in an adopted or certified prior environmental document for such a plan. Such projections may be supplemented with additional information such as a regional modeling program. Any such document shall be referenced and made available to the public at a location specified by the lead agency.

By its nature, a general plan considers cumulative impacts insofar as it considers cumulative development that could occur within the City limits. For example, the transportation analysis considers the overall change in VMT due to implementing several development projects under the 2045 General Plan that would add to the City buildout. As such, the analysis in this EIR considers the cumulative impacts in the City from implementation of the 2045 General Plan. These cumulative VMT calculations are accounted for in the air quality, energy, greenhouse gas emissions, and noise analyses; therefore, these analyses would also be considered cumulative. Additionally, cultural resources impacts associated with historical resources would be cumulatively significant. Therefore, the analysis of project impacts in the Draft EIR also constitutes the cumulative analysis and the findings related to each of those impacts would apply.
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6 Feasibility of Project Alternatives
CEQA requires that an EIR include an analysis of a reasonable range of feasible alternatives to a project capable of avoiding or substantially lessening any significant adverse environmental impact associated with the Project. The discussion of alternatives is required to include the “No Project” alternative. CEQA requires further that the City identify an environmentally superior alternative. If the “No Project” alternative is the environmentally superior alternative, an environmentally superior alternative must be identified from among the other alternatives (CEQA Guidelines, Section 15126.6). However, “CEQA did not require the City to choose the environmentally superior alternative. It simply required the City to consider environmentally superior alternatives, explain the considerations that led it to conclude that those alternatives were infeasible, weigh those considerations against the environmental harm that the Plan would cause, and make findings that the benefits of those considerations outweighed the harm.” (California Native Plant Society v. City of Santa Cruz (2009) 177 Cal.App.4th 957, 1005–1006).

Whether to reject or approve any of the alternatives is a decision only for the decisionmakers. “They may reject alternatives that are undesirable from a policy standpoint as well as alternatives that fail to meet project objectives.” (Ocean Street Extension Neighborhood Assn. v. City of Santa Cruz (2021) 73 Cal.App.5th 985, 1016 (citations omitted).) “While it is up to the EIR preparer to identify alternatives as potentially feasible, the decision-making body “may or may not reject those alternatives as being infeasible” when it comes to project approval. Rejection by the decision-makers does not undermine the validity of the EIR's alternatives analysis.” (California Native Plant Society v. City of Santa Cruz (2009) 177 Cal.App.4th 957, 999 [99 Cal.Rptr.3d 572, 602 (citations omitted).)
Alternatives Considered and Rejected
Alternatives to increase the density of the High-Density Residential land use designation and the Tourist Commercial land use designation and increase the maximum allowable height of buildings in the Tourist Commercial land use designation were considered but ultimately rejected due to public opposition.

Alternatives Studied in the EIR
Alternative 1: No Project Alternative
The No Project Alternative involves continued implementation of the City’s current General Plan, originally adopted in 1989, with various amendments completed including the land use element which was last amended in 2008. The No Project Alternative assumes the proposed project would not be adopted and therefore future development would be carried out in accordance with the City’s existing General Plan policies and land use designations through the horizon year of 2045, as adopted in the 2008 land use element. Thus, while growth in the region and in the Planning Area would still occur, any new development in Solvang would occur consistent with the existing land use designations and the allowed uses in each designation. Similarly, any new infrastructure would occur as envisioned in the existing General Plan. SBCAG has projected Solvang would have a population of approximately 6,300, and a housing stock of approximately 2,700. The No Project 230
Alternative’s build out would occur in accordance with SBCAG’s population and housing. In comparison to the proposed project’s anticipated 2045 population of 7,253 and housing stock of 3,019 residential units, the No Project Alternative would result in 953 fewer additional residents and 319 fewer housing units in Solvang in 2045, consistent with SCAG projections. As a result, the anticipated growth in Solvang under the No Project Alternative would be less than the proposed project.

FINDING
The No Project Alternative would generally result in reduced environmental impacts compared to the proposed project. While this alternative would reduce the number of development sites, it also would not include updated policies to reduce environmental impacts, nor would the alternative allow for compact, mixed-use development that is to be implemented with the 2045 General Plan and its zoning ordinance amendments. Therefore, this alternative would result in greater impacts to greenhouse gas emissions, land use and planning in the continuation of separation of uses, transportation, and wildfire. This alternative would result in fewer impacts to aesthetics, air quality, biological resources, cultural resources, energy, geology and soils, hazards and hazardous materials, hydrology and water quality, noise, population and housing, public services and recreation, tribal cultural resources, and utilities and service systems. However, this alternative would not meet the project objectives since the purpose of the project is to update the existing General Plan and under this alternative, no changes to the existing General Plan would occur.

The City rejects Alternative 1 because it would not achieve the objectives of the proposed project.

Furthermore, Alternative 1 would result in greater impacts to greenhouse gas emissions, land use and planning, transportation, and wildfire compared to the proposed project.

The findings for the proposed project set forth in this document and the overriding social, economic and other considerations set forth in the Statement of Overriding Considerations provide support for the proposed project and the elimination of this alternative from further consideration.

Alternative 2: No Old Lumberyard Project
The 2045 General Plan includes the Old Lumberyard site as an area of potential growth in Solvang.

The “No Old Lumberyard Project” Alternative (Alternative 2) would exclude the Old Lumberyard site as an area of potential growth. Although the Old Lumberyard Project would not be included under Alternative 2, this would not preclude development from occurring on the site in the future. Under Alternative 2, the proposed Old Lumberyard Project would not be implemented, and the zoning and General Plan designations would not change from the existing designations being primarily residential. However, housing could still be built on the Old Lumberyard Project site, for a total of 50 units and 120 new residents. Alternative 2 would fulfill Project Objectives of fostering a distinct community character, promoting economic diversity and sustainability, providing adequate facilities, conserving open space, and ensuring public safety. As Alternative 2 would not involve the development of the proposed new hotel buildings and micro-apartments on the Old Lumberyard site, it would fulfill Project Objectives of supporting strategic land uses, improving mobility, and supporting diverse housing options, to a lesser extent than the 2045 General Plan. Alternative 2 would fulfill these Project Objectives to a lesser extent as the exclusion of the Old Lumberyard site would result in an increase in VMT per capita, and less strategic land use decision-making, when compared to the 2045 General Plan.
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FINDING
Alternative 2 would generally result in reduced environmental impacts to all impact measures except for land use and planning and transportation compared to the proposed project. Impacts to land use and planning would be similar to the proposed project and impacts to transportation would be greater than the proposed project.

As Alternative 2 would not involve development of the proposed new hotel buildings and microapartments on the Old Lumberyard site, Alternative 2 would lessen some impacts compared to the proposed project, while still achieving some of the objectives of the proposed project. The City rejects Alternative 2 as it would fulfill Project Objectives of supporting strategic land uses, and improving mobility to a lesser extent than the 2045 General Plan. Alternative 2 would fulfill these Project Objectives to a lesser extent as the exclusion of the Old Lumberyard site would result in a decreased emphasis on the provision of housing units, an increase in VMT per capita, and less strategic land use decision-making, when compared to the 2045 General Plan.

Alternative 3: No Alamo Pintado Project
The 2045 General Plan would include Alamo Pintado site as an area of potential growth. The “No Alamo Pintado Project” Alternative would exclude the Alamo Pintado site as an area of potential growth. Although the Alamo Pintado Project would not be included under Alternative 3, this would not preclude development from occurring on the site in the future. Under Alternative 3, the proposed Alamo Pintado Project would not be implemented, and the zoning and General Plan designations would not change from the existing designations. However, housing could still be built on the Alamo Pintado Project site, for a total of 2 to 11 units and 5 to 27 new residents. Alternative 3 would fulfill Project Objectives of fostering a distinct community character, promoting economic diversity and sustainability, providing adequate facilities, conserving open space, and ensuring public safety. As Alternative 3 would not involve high-density development on the Alamo Pintado site, it would fulfill Project Objectives of supporting strategic land uses, improving mobility, and supporting diverse housing options, to a lesser extent than the 2045 General Plan. Alternative 3 would fulfill these Project Objectives to a lesser extent as the exclusion of the Alamo Pintado site would result in a decreased emphasis on the provision of housing units, an increase in VMT per capita, and less strategic land use decision-making, when compared to the 2045 General Plan.

FINDING
Alternative 3 would result in fewer impacts to all impact measures except for land use and planning and transportation when compared to the proposed project. Impacts to land use and planning would be similar to the proposed project and impacts to transportation would be greater than the proposed project, due to the high VMT that would be likely generated.

While Alternative 3 would not involve high-density development on the Alamo Pintado site, the City rejects Alternative 3 as it would fulfill Project Objectives of supporting strategic land uses, improving mobility, and supporting diverse housing options, to a lesser extent than the 2045 General Plan.

Alternative 3 would fulfill these Project Objectives to a lesser extent as the exclusion of the Alamo Pintado site would result in a decreased emphasis on the provision of housing units, an increase in VMT per capita, and less strategic land use decision making, when compared to the 2045 General Plan.
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Alternative 4: Neither Project Implemented
The 2045 General Plan would include the Old Lumberyard site and Alamo Pintado site as areas of potential growth. The Neither Project Implemented Alternative would exclude both sites as areas of potential growth. Alternative 4 would fulfill Project Objectives of fostering a distinct community character, promoting economic diversity and sustainability, providing adequate facilities, conserving open space, and ensuring public safety. As Alternative 4 would not involve development of the proposed projects on the Old Lumberyard and Alamo Pintado sites, it would fulfill Project Objectives of supporting strategic land uses, improving mobility, and supporting diverse housing options, to a lesser extent than the 2045 General Plan. Alternative 4 would fulfill these Project Objectives to a lesser extent as the exclusion of the Old Lumberyard and Alamo Pintado sites would result in a decreased emphasis on the provision of housing units, an increase in VMT per capita, and less strategic land use decision-making, when compared to the 2045 General Plan.

FINDING
Alternative 4 would generally result in fewer environmental impacts to all impact measures except for land use and planning and transportation compared to the proposed project. Impacts to land use and planning would be similar to the proposed project and impacts to transportation would be greater than the proposed project. The City rejects Alternative 4 because it would fulfill Project Objectives to a lesser extent than the 2045 General Plan.

Environmentally Superior Alternative
The CEQA Guidelines state an EIR shall identify an environmentally superior alternative. If the environmentally superior alternative is the No Project Alternative, the EIR shall also identify an environmentally superior alternative among the other alternatives (CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(e)(2)).

Alternative 4 would not involve development to the same extent on the Old Lumberyard site and Alamo Pintado site, and thus would involve a reduced buildout when compared to the proposed project, Alternative 2, and Alternative 3. This reduced buildout would result in lesser impacts to all environmental issue areas except land use and planning (where impacts would be similar) and transportation (where impacts would be greater). The decreased buildout associated with Alternative 4, when paired with general furtherance of Project Objectives, would result in Alternative 4 being the environmentally superior alternative. However, Alternative 4 would notfulfill Project Objectives to the same extent as the 2045 General Plan.

As Alternative 4 would not involve high-density development on the Old Lumberyard and Alamo Pintado sites, it would fulfill Project Objectives of supporting strategic land uses, improving mobility, and supporting diverse housing options, to a lesser extent than the 2045 General Plan. Alternative 4 would fulfill these Project Objectives to a lesser extent as the exclusion of the Old Lumberyard and Alamo Pintado sites would result in a decreased emphasis on the provision of housing units, an increase in VMT per capita, and less strategic land use decision-making, when compared to the 2045 General Plan.

Finding
While Alternative 4 was determined to be the environmentally superior alternative, the City rejects Alternative 4 because it would fulfill Project Objectives to a lesser extent than the 2045 General Plan, specifically in areas such as housing which have been mandated by the State as key objectives, and has a greater impact on VMT per capita, an already significant impact. 233
7 Significant Irreversible Effects and Growth
Inducement
Significant Irreversible Effects
CEQA Guidelines Section 15126(c) requires a discussion of significant irreversible environmental changes that could result from a project, should a project be implemented. This section addresses non-renewable resources, the commitment of future generations to the proposed uses, environmental accidents, and irreversible impacts associated with the 2045 General Plan.

Finding
Implementation of the 2045 General Plan could irreversibly increase local demand for nonrenewable energy resources such as petroleum products and natural gas. However, increasingly efficient building design would offset this demand to some degree by reducing energy demands of future development. As described in Section 4.5, Energy, development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan would be subject to the energy conservation requirements of the California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6 of the California Code of Regulations, California’s Energy Efficiency Standards for Residential and Nonresidential Buildings) and Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen; California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 11). The California Energy Code provides energy conservation standards for all new and renovated buildings, and CALGreen requires solar access, natural ventilation, and stormwater capture. New and existing development in Solvang is provided electricity procured by Central Coast Community Energy (3CE), which emphasizes the use of renewable energy resources. In accordance with Senate Bill 100, new and existing development will eventually be powered entirely by renewable energy procured by 3CE. Furthermore, the 2045 General Plan would implement several policies which would require efficient energy use and promote renewable energy programs. Consequently, development facilitated by the 2045 General Plan would not use unusual amounts of energy or construction materials. Consumption of these resources would occur with any development in the region and is not unique to the 2045 General Plan. Therefore, implementation of the 2045 General Plan would not result in significant irreversible environmental changes related to energy use.

Growth facilitated by the 2045 General Plan could require an irreversible commitment of fire protection, law enforcement, water supply, wastewater treatment, and solid waste disposal services. As discussed in Section 4.13, Public Services and Recreation, and Section 4.16, Utilities and Service Systems, potential impacts to public services and utilities and service systems would be less than significant following implementation of policies included in the 2045 General Plan, as well as future project-specific environmental review that would be required for any future public service or utility facility constructed in accordance with the 2045 General Plan.

The anticipated increase in buildout associated with the 2045 General Plan could contribute to air quality. As described in Section 4.2, Air Quality, the 2045 General Plan has the potential to result in the irreversible emission of cumulatively considerable criteria pollutant emissions and exposure of sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations. Even with implementation of Mitigation Measures AQ-1 and AQ-2, which require use of emission reduction measures, Tier 4 or higher emission standard equipment during construction of future 234
development projects, construction of those projects could result in an irreversible environmental effect in the Planning Area with regards to air quality emissions.

Demolition and ground-disturbing activities facilitated by the 2045 General Plan could cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource. Even with implementation of applicable 2045 General Plan policies and Mitigation Measure CUL-1, damage to or destruction of a known or previously unknown historical resource could occur because of the proposed project.

Therefore, the 2045 General Plan could irreversibly impact historical resources in the Planning Area.

Growth Inducement
Section 15126(d) of the CEQA Guidelines requires a discussion of a proposed project’s potential to foster economic or population growth, including ways in which a project could remove an obstacle to growth. Growth does not necessarily create significant physical changes to the environment.

However, depending upon the type, magnitude, and location of growth, it can result in significant adverse environmental effects. The proposed project’s growth inducing potential is therefore considered significant if project-induced growth could result in significant physical effects in one or more environmental issue areas.

The 2045 General Plan buildout is anticipated to enable an additional 497 residential units and 211 employees. As described in Section 4.12, Population and Housing, based on Solvang’s average household size of 2.39 persons per household, implementation of the 2045 General Plan could lead to an increase of approximately 1,187 residents in the city, increasing Solvang’s total population to 7,042, which is above the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments’ (SBCAG) 2045 population forecast of 6,300 residents in Solvang (a difference of 747 people or approximately 11.1 percent) (SBCAG 2019). Therefore, the 2045 General Plan could facilitate population growth in the area. However, implementation of the policies and associated programs included in the 2045 General Plan would assist in managing growth and infill development such that development and redevelopment would occur in an orderly manner.

Finding
Growth in Solvang would occur regardless of implementation of the 2045 General Plan. While growth is anticipated by the 2045 General Plan that would exceed current projections by SBCAG, the growth would not be unplanned since it is contemplated by the 2045 General Plan. As described in the 2045 General Plan, the proposed project’s vision for Solvang was developed with extensive community input and in recognition of the State’s planning and housing priorities. The 2045 General Plan identifies major strategies and physical improvements for Solvang through 2045, including, but not limited to, use of mixed-use areas, strengthening locally owned business and community supported tourism, enhancing existing neighborhoods, and maintaining adequate public facilities and services for anticipated growth. Because the 2045 General Plan is designed for orderly growth, as mandated by the state, the 2045 General Plan would not result in substantial impacts related to population and economic growth.
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8 Statement of Overriding Considerations
CEQA requires the decision-making agency to balance the benefits of a project against its significant unavoidable impacts when determining whether to approve a project. If the benefits of the project outweigh its unavoidable adverse environmental effects, those effects may be considered acceptable (CEQA Guidelines Section 15093(a)). CEQA requires the agency to state in writing the specific reasons for considering a project acceptable when significant impacts are not avoided or substantially lessened. Those reasons must be based on substantial evidence in the Final EIR or elsewhere in the administrative record (CEQA Guidelines Section 15093(b)). The General Plan Update, as proposed, could result in significant unavoidable impacts related to air quality, cultural resources, noise, and transportation. These significant unavoidable impacts are identified and discussed in Section 5 of these Findings.

The City identified Alternative 4 as the environmentally superior alternative because it fulfills project objectives similar to other alternatives but has fewer overall impacts. Alternative 4 would not involve development to the same extent on the Old Lumberyard site and Alamo Pintado site, and thus would involve a reduced buildout when compared to the proposed project, Alternative 2, and Alternative 3. This reduced buildout would result in lesser impacts to all environmental issue areas except land use and planning (where impacts would be similar) and transportation (where impacts would be greater). Most notably, although some of the significant and unavoidable impacts of the Project would be slightly less under Alternative 4, none of these impacts would be reduced to less than significant and the significant and unavoidable impact to transportation (VMT) would be greater under Alternative 4.

The City certifies that it has considered the information on alternatives provided in the EIR and in the record and finds that, as described in the EIR, and for the reasons identified in Section 6, above, there are no feasible alternatives that would avoid all of the above-listed significant and unavoidable impacts.

The City adopts and makes this Statement of Overriding Considerations regarding the significant unavoidable impacts of the 2045 General Plan and the anticipated benefits of the 2045 General Plan. The City finds that each of the benefits set forth below in this Statement constitutes a separate and independent ground for finding that the benefits of the 2045 General Plan outweigh the risks of their potential significant adverse environmental impacts. The benefits of the 2045 General Plan, which constitute the specific economic, legal, social, technological and other considerations that justify the approval of the 2045 General Plan are as follows:
 The proposed project would support strategic land uses by accommodating future growth and development through compact, infill development while preserving and enhancing the qualities that make Solvang a desirable place to live, work, and visit through land use designations and zoning ordinance amendments that strike a balance between accommodating infill development and maintaining and creating neighborhood character through policies. The proposed project’s policies would foster a distinct community character by maintaining Solvang's urban form and architectural style to preserve its unique identity and charm through implementation.
 The proposed project would promote economic diversity and sustainability by encouraging a vibrant mix of businesses, workforce development, modern infrastructure, and regional 236
collaboration to enhance Solvang's economic vitality for the existing residents and visitors to the city.
 The proposed project would improve mobility by adopting policies that enhance multi-modal transportation options for residents and visitors to ensure easy access within and around Solvang.
 The proposed project would provide adequate facilities by ensuring the provision of essential public services and facilities, including water, wastewater, emergency response, healthcare, and recreational amenities.
 The proposed project would conserve open space by protecting Solvang's natural settings beauty and open spaces within the city and to support maintaining the scenic surroundings in the county.
 The proposed project would ensure public safety by prioritizing public safety through effective emergency response measures and resilient infrastructure.  The proposed project would support diverse housing options through implementation policies that facilitate the development of a range of housing types and affordability levels to meet the needs of Solvang's diverse population and the state RHNA numbers.

As the CEQA lead agency for the proposed action, the City has reviewed the Project description and the EIR and fully understands the Project. Based on the entire record before the City, and having considered the unavoidable adverse impacts of the Project, the City hereby determines that all feasible mitigation has been adopted to reduce the potentially significant impacts identified in the EIR and that no additional feasible mitigation is available to further reduce significant impacts. On balance, the City finds that there are specific beneficial considerations associated with the 2045 General Plan that serve to override and outweigh the proposed project’s significant unavoidable effects. Therefore, pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15093, the significant unavoidable environmental impacts associated with the proposed project are considered acceptable. 237
9 Findings Regarding Recirculation of the
Draft EIR
Under Section 15088.5 of the State CEQA Guidelines, recirculation of an EIR is required “when significant new information is added to the EIR after public notice is given of the availability of the Draft EIR for public review” but prior to certification of the Final EIR. The term “information” can include changes in the project or environmental setting as well as additional data or other information. (State Guidelines Section 15088.5.) New information added to an EIR is not “significant” unless the EIR is changed in a way that deprives the public of a meaningful opportunity to comment upon a substantial adverse environmental effect of the project or a feasible way to mitigate or avoid such an effect (including a feasible project alternative) that the project’s proponents have declined to implement.” (State CEQA Guidelines § 15088.5(a).) “‘Significant new information’ requiring recirculation includes, for example, a disclosure showing that:
(1) A new significant environmental impact would result from a project or from a new mitigation measure proposed to be implemented.
(2) A substantial increase in the severity of an environmental impact would result unless mitigation measures are adopted that reduce the impact to a level of insignificance. (3) A feasible project alternative or mitigation measure considerably different from others previously analyzed would clearly lessen the significant environmental impacts of the project, but the project’s proponents decline to adopt it.
(4) The Draft EIR was so fundamentally and basically inadequate and conclusory in nature that meaningful public review and comment were precluded.” (State CEQA Guidelines, Section 15088.5).
“Recirculation is not required where the new information added to the EIR merely clarifies or amplifies or makes insignificant modifications in an adequate EIR.” State CEQA Guidelines § 15088.5(b).

The City Council recognizes that the FEIR contains additions, clarifications, modifications, and other changes to the Draft EIR. Some comments on the Draft EIR either expressly or impliedly sought changes to proposed mitigation measures identified in the Draft EIR as well as additional mitigation measures. As explained in the Responses to Commentssome suggestions were not appropriate or feasible. Where changes have been made to mitigation measures, these changes do not change the significance of any conclusions presented in the Draft EIR.

The City Council finds that none of the revisions to the Draft EIR made by, or the discussion included in, the FEIR involves “significant new information” that would trigger recirculation because the changes would not result in any new significant environmental effects, a substantial increase in the severity of previously identified significant effects, or feasible project alternatives that would clearly lessen the environmental effects of the Project. Similarly, no documentation produced by, or submitted to, the City and relied on by the City after publication of the FEIR, including, but not limited to, public comments, identifies any new significant effect, substantial increase in the severity of any environmental effect, or feasible project alternatives that would clearly lessen the environmental effects of the Project. All Project modifications or amendments to the FEIR were either environmentally benign or environmentally neutral, and all additional documentation relied 238
on by the City merely clarifies or amplifies conclusions in the Draft EIR and thus represents the kinds of common changes that occur and supplemental information that is received during the environmental review process as it works toward its conclusion. Under such circumstances, the City Council hereby finds that recirculation of the Daft EIR is not required. 239
10 Conclusion
In summary, after balancing the specific economic, legal, social, technological, and other benefits of the proposed project, the City Council finds that the unavoidable adverse environmental impacts identified may be considered “acceptable” due to the specific considerations listed above, which outweigh the unavoidable, adverse environmental impacts of the proposed project.

The City Council has considered information contained in the EIR prepared for the proposed project as well as the public testimony and record of proceedings in which the project was considered.

Recognizing that significant unavoidable air quality, cultural resources, noise, and transportation impacts may result from implementation of the proposed project, the Council finds that the benefits of the proposed project and overriding considerations outweigh the adverse effects of the proposed project. Having included all feasible mitigation measures and recognized all unavoidable significant impacts, the City Council hereby finds that each of the separate benefits of the proposed project, as stated herein, is determined to be unto itself an overriding consideration, independent of other benefits, that warrants adoption of the proposed project and outweighs and overrides its unavoidable significant effects, and thereby justifies the adoption of the proposed project.

In reaching this conclusion and approving the proposed project:

1. The City Council has considered the information contained in the Final EIR and fully reviewed and considered all of the public testimony, documentation, exhibits, reports, and presentations included in the record of these proceedings. The City Council specifically finds and determines that this Statement of Overriding Considerations is based upon and supported by substantial evidence in the record.

2. The City Council has carefully weighed the benefits of the proposed project against any adverse impacts identified in the Final EIR that could not be feasibly mitigated to a level of insignificance. While the Council have required all feasible mitigation measures, some impacts remain potentially significant.

3. This Statement of Overriding Considerations applies specifically to those impacts found to be potentially significant and unavoidable as set forth in the Final EIR and the record of these proceedings.
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RESOLUTION NO. 24-1254

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOLVANG, CALIFORNIA ADOPTING THE CITY OF SOLVANG 2045 GENERAL PLAN CONSISTING OF THE FOLLOWING ELEMENTS: LAND USE, COMMUNITY DESIGN, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT,

MOBILITY, ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY, SAFETY AND PUBLIC FACILITIES,

SERVICES AND INFRASTRUCTURE
WHEREAS, California Government Code Section 65300 requires the City of Solvang (“City”) to adopt and maintain a General Plan that contains certain elements, describes the City's long-term goals for growth and development, and identifies policies and programs to achieve those goals; and WHEREAS, the last comprehensive update to the City's General Plan was in 1989, with various elements updated since the last comprehensive update; and WHEREAS, in 2020, the City began the process of comprehensively updating the City's General Plan, and since this time City officials, City staff, and community members have been actively involved in the preparation of the 2045 General Plan Update ("2045 General Plan"); and WHEREAS, the 2045 General Plan applies to lands within City limits (“City Planning Area”).

The City's Planning Area covers a total of 2.4 square miles of land; and WHEREAS, in December 2020, the City selected Minter Harnish and Rincon Consultants to prepare the 2045 General Plan and a corresponding Environmental Impact Report; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Government Code Section 65351, the City engaged the community to help formulate the 2045 General Plan by holding six (6) community workshops on February 6, 2021, April 8, April 9, 2021, March 24, 2022, May 11, 2022, and July 18, 2022 and providing other public engagement opportunities; and
WHEREAS, the City formed a General Plan Advisory Committee ("GPAC") made up of fifteen (15) members from the community to provide input and review the policy directions contained in the 2045 General Plan; and
WHEREAS in accordance with Government Code sections 65351 through 65352.5, the City has provided opportunities for public input and involvement on the 2045 General Plan, and provided opportunities for consultation to affected public agencies and California Native American tribes on the 2045 General Plan; and
WHEREAS, in conformance with Government Code section 65302 describing the mandatory elements of a general plan, the 2045 General Plan contains the following chapters, which address the mandatory elements: Land Use, Mobility, Environment and Sustainability, Safety and Public Facilities, Services, and Infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, the Housing Element was adopted by the Solvang City Council (“City Council”) on December 11, 2023 and was certified by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) for the 6th Cycle Housing element (2023-2031) on February 12, 2024; and WHEREAS, for the purpose of the City Council’s determination contained herein the 2045 General Plan includes the following elements: Land Use, Community Design, Economic Development, Mobility, Environment and Sustainability, Safety, and Public Facilities, Services, and Infrastructure; and does not include the Housing Element; and
WHEREAS, there are no proposed changes to the City's Sphere of Influence accompanying the 2045 General Plan, nor has the City submitted any applications to the Santa Barbara County Local Agency Formation Commission in connection with the 2045 General Plan; and 241
WHEREAS, the Land Use Diagram for the 2045 General Plan re-designates certain properties to high density residential uses, commercial mixed-use, and other re-designations, adds, a new land use category, “Guest Ranch”, and eliminates the “Agriculture” land use designation, as it will no longer be a land use designation within City limits; and
WHEREAS, the City is the lead agency for the 2045 General Plan project pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA"); and
WHEREAS, the City has completed the 2045 General Plan and analyzed potential environmental impacts in compliance with CEQA; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to CEQA, the City has prepared a Final Environmental Impact Report ("Final EIR") for the 2045 General Plan representing the City’s independent judgement and analysis and prepared CEQA Findings of Fact, Statement of Overriding Considerations, and a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (“MMRP”); and
WHEREAS, under State law and the Solvang Municipal Code, the Solvang Planning Commission ("Planning Commission") is charged with reviewing updates and amendments to the City's General Plan, and making recommendations to the City Council; and WHEREAS, following notice duly provided as required by law, the Planning Commission held a public hearing on June 3, 2024 at which all interested parties were given an opportunity to comment on the 2045 General Plan, Final EIR, CEQA Findings of Fact, Statement of Overriding Considerations, and MMRP prior to the Planning Commission's recommendation to the Solvang City Council; and WHEREAS, during such duly noticed public hearing on June 3, 2024, the Planning Commission considered the 2045 General Plan, Final EIR, CEQA Findings of Fact, Statement of Overriding Considerations, and MMRP, all written and oral reports of City staff, and all comments by interested parties on the matter as reflected in the record prior to the Planning Commission’s recommendation to the Solvang City Council; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 18706 of Title 2, Division 6, Chapter 7, Article 1 of the California Code of Regulations, due to conflicts of interests among one or more Commissioners, the Planning Commission segmented decisions regarding re-designation of the land use designations applicable to Mission Santa Ynez, the Old Lumber Yard Site, Site “B” and Site “C”/Wildwood Site proposed by the 2045 General Plan; and
WHEREAS, Commissioner Petersen recused himself from consideration of the re-designation of the Mission Santa Ynez and Older Lumber Yard Sites, Chair Williams and Vice Chair Jamieson recused themselves from consideration of the re-designation of Site “B”, and Chair Williams recused himself from consideration of the re-designation of Site “C”/Wildwood Site; and WHEREAS, for the remainder of the 2045 General Plan and corresponding CEQA recommendations, there were no conflicts of interest requiring recusal; all five Commissioners were permitted to participate in the remaining recommendations to the Solvang City Council; and WHEREAS, after such duly noticed public hearing on June 3, 2024, and consistent with the above described segmented decisions, the Planning Commission recommended the City Council adopt a resolution certifying the Final EIR and adopting the CEQA Findings of Fact and Statement of Overriding Considerations and the MMRP and adopt a resolution adopting the 2045 General Plan; and WHEREAS, the 2045 General Plan and corresponding environmental review documents are now before the City Council for consideration, certification, and adoption; and 242
WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed the Final EIR, the CEQA Findings of Fact and the Statement of Overriding Considerations, and the MMRP; and WHEREAS, following notice duly provided as required by law, the City Council held a public hearing on July 8, 2024 at which all interested parties were given an opportunity to comment on the 2045 General Plan, Final EIR, CEQA Findings of Fact, Statement of Overriding Considerations, and MMRP prior to the City Council’s decision on the 2045 General Plan; and WHEREAS, during such duly noticed public hearing on July 10, 2024, the City Council considered the 2045 General Plan, Final EIR, CEQA Findings of Fact, Statement of Overriding Considerations, and MMRP, the Planning Commission’s recommendation, all written and oral reports of City staff, and all comments by interested parties on the matter, as reflected in the record, prior to the prior to the City Council’s decision on the 2045 General Plan; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 18706 of Title 2, Division 6, Chapter 7, Article 1 of the California Code of Regulations, due to financial conflicts of interests pursuant to the Political Reform Act (Government Code § 81000 et seq.) among one or more Council Members, the City Council segmented decisions regarding re-designation of the land use designations of properties owned by the City of Solvang and Santa Barbara County from “tourist related commercial” to “public”, the Mission Santa Inez property where the primary structure and an ancillary parking lot are located from “agricultural” to “public”, the area within the grounds of Mission Santa Ines that remains vacant from “agricultural” to “open space”, and the Alisal property from “agricultural” to “open space” for passive recreation and golf course areas own by the Alisal Ranch as proposed by the 2045 General Plan; and WHEREAS, Council Member C. Orona recused herself from consideration of the re-designation of the certain properties from “tourist related commercial” to public, and the re-designation of Mission Santa Ynez from “Agricultural” to either “public” or “open space” and Council Member Clark recused himself from consideration of the re-designation of the Alisal property from “Agricultural” to “Open Space”; and
WHEREAS, for the remainder of the 2045 General Plan and corresponding CEQA certification and adoption, there were no conflicts of interest requiring recusal; all Council Members were permitted to participate in the remaining decisions; and
WHEREAS, on July 10, 2045, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 24-1253 and thereby certified the Final EIR for the 2045 General Plan project and adopted the corresponding CEQA Findings of Fact, Statement of Overriding Considerations and MMRP.

NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOLVANG DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. The Recitals set forth above are true and correct and are incorporated herein and adopted as findings in support of this Resolution.

SECTION 2. The City Council hereby finds:

1. The City has prepared a Final EIR for the 2045 General Plan representing the City’s independent judgement and analysis and prepared CEQA Findings of Fact, Statement of Overriding Considerations, and a MMRP.

2. Prior to the City Council’s determination on the 2045 General Plan, on July 10, 2045, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 24-1253 and thereby certified the Final Environmental Impact Report for the 2045 General Plan project and adopted the corresponding CEQA Findings of Fact, Statement of Overriding Considerations and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program and thereby satisfied its obligation as lead agency under CEQA. 243

3. The MMRP for the Project was developed in order to mitigate or avoid significant effects on the environment, and further, the MMRP is hereby adopted and made enforceable as part of the adoption of the 2045 General Plan by the City Council.

SECTION 3. The City Council hereby finds that:

1. The 2045 General Plan and all its elements comprise a comprehensive, long-range, internally consistent statement of the City's goals, policies, and actions relating Land Use; Community Design; Economic Development; Mobility; Public Facilities, Services, and Infrastructure Environment and Sustainability; and Safety.

2. The Land Use, Mobility, Environment and Sustainability, Safety and Public Facilities, Services, and Infrastructure chapters of the 2045 General Plan, and the previously adopted Housing Element, include the elements required by Government Code section 65302.

3. The 2045 General Plan will promote the public health, safety, and welfare of the City's residents by establishing goals, policies, and actions to guide the City's future growth and development within the City's Planning Area.

4. The Land Use Element, Community Design Element; Economic Development Element; Mobility Element; Public Facilities, Services and Infrastructure Element; Environment and Sustainability Element; and Safety Element of the Comprehensive 2045 Solvang General Plan have all been prepared in conformance with applicable State planning and zoning laws, including but not limited to Government Code Section 65302.

SECTION 4. In accordance with Section 18706 of Title 2, Division 6, Chapter 7, Article 1 of the California Code of Regulations, the City Council segmented decisions regarding certain land use redesignations proposed by the 2045 General Plan in which one or more Council Members had a financial interest pursuant to the Political Reform Act (Government Code § 81000 et seq.). Based on the aforementioned findings and all the evidence in the record, the City Council, pursuant to the following votes, hereby adopts the following as part of the 2045 General Plan:

1. Land Use Re-Designation of certain properties from “tourist related commercial” to “public” and the Mission Santa Ynez from “agricultural” to “public” or “agricultural” to “open space”. Due to a conflict of interest, Council Member C. Orona recused herself from consideration of the redesignation of certain properties from “tourist related commercial” to “public” and the Mission Santa Ynez from “agricultural” to “public” or “agricultural” to “open space”. The remaining present Council members voted __-__ to re-designate certain properties from “tourist related commercial” to “public” and the Mission Santa Ynez from “agricultural” to “public” or “agricultural” to “open space” in accordance with the 2045 General Plan, as shown in Exhibit B.

2. Land Use Re-Designation of the Alisal property from “agricultural” to “open space”. Due to a conflict of interest, Council Member Clarke recused himself from consideration of the redesignation of the Alisal property from “agricultural” to “open space”. The remaining present Council members voted __-__ to re-designate the Alisal property from “agricultural” to “open space” in accordance with the 2045 General Plan, as shown in Exhibit B.

SECTION 5. Based on the foregoing and all the evidence in the record, and in accordance with the segmented decisions approved in Section 4 of this Resolution, the City Council hereby adopts the 2045 Solvang General Plan, which for the purposes of this recommendation consists of the following elements: Land Use, Community Design; Economic Development; Mobility; Environment and Sustainability; Safety and Public Facilities, Services and Infrastructure, in substantial form as attached hereto as Exhibit A, with the following modifications, to be incorporated into the final 2045 General Plan:
244

1. Figure LU-1 Land Use Map. To be amended to incorporate changes including re-designations of properties for consistency with the adopted Housing Element, additional mixed-use site opportunities, and other clean-ups consistent with previously adopted documents, as shown in Exhibit B.

2. Table 2-3 Guest Ranch Land Use Designation Description to be amended to read as follows:
“This designation is established to recognize the approximately 30 acres of the Alisal Ranch located within the city. Allowed uses include guest lodging, employee housing, restaurants, and recreation and entertainment, and agriculture.”

3. LU Policy 1.7 to be amended to read as follows: “The City shall encourage the development of more industrial uses in the M-1 zone to expand the City’s job base sources and diversify the City’s revenue, including but not limited to: light industrial facilities, research and development parks, and heavy equipment maintenance yards.”

4. Text edits of the Community Design element shall be replaced with the text, including goals, policies, and implementation measures that have been compiled by the General Plan Advisory Committee, including more concise language to the design aesthetic envisioned by the General Plan for the Village and Mission design districts as shown in Exhibit C.

5. Figures CD-1 Design Districts and CD-2 Village Area Design District. To be amended to include Copenhagen Drive from 5th Street to Alisal Road as part of the Village Core Design District as shown in Exhibit D.

6. Minor graphic edits for consistency with the adopted Final EIR.

7. Minor text and grammatical edits throughout the document and other conforming edits identified by staff and the Planning Commission.

SECTION 5. This Resolution is effective immediately upon adoption.

SECTION 6. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this Resolution and shall cause a certified copy to be filed in the book of original resolutions. 245
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 10th day of July, 2024.

__________________________________
Mark Infanti, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: ATTEST:
__________________________________ __________________________________ Chelsea O’Sullivan, City Attorney Annamarie Porter, City Clerk 246

STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF SANTA BARBARA )ss

CITY OF SOLVANG )
I, Annamarie Porter, City Clerk of the City of Solvang, California do hereby certify that Resolution No. 24-1254 was __________ and __________ by the City Council of the City of Solvang at a regular meeting of said City Council held on the 10 day of July, 2024, and thereafter signed and approved by the Mayor and attested by the City Clerk, and that said resolution was adopted by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:
________________________________
Annamarie Porter, City Clerk
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2045 GENERAL PLAN

PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT
APRIL 2023
248

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Public Review Draft Table of Contents, April 2023 | TOC-1 Table of Contents
Introduction ......................................................................................... INT-1 Purpose and Use of the General Plan ...................................................... INT-3 What is a General Plan? ....................................................................... INT-3 Using the General Plan......................................................................... INT-4 Maintaining the General Plan............................................................... INT-5 Preparing the 2045 General Plan ............................................................. INT-6 General Plan Guiding Principles............................................................... INT-9 Analyses Informing the 2045 General Plan ............................................ INT-11 The Solvang Community......................................................................... INT-11 Organization of the General Plan........................................................... INT-17 Readers’ Guide ....................................................................................... INT-20 Land Use (LU) ........................................................................................ LU-1 Land Use Diagram and Designations......................................................... LU-3 Planning Boundaries.............................................................................. LU-3 Land Use Diagram.................................................................................. LU-4 Land Use Designations ...................................................................... LU-5 Goals and Policies.................................................................................... LU-12 Balanced Land Use Mix........................................................................ LU-12 Residential........................................................................................... LU-14 Commercial.......................................................................................... LU-15 Village Area.......................................................................................... LU-16 Mixed-use............................................................................................ LU-17 Industrial.............................................................................................. LU-18 Public and Institutional Uses............................................................... LU-19 Urban Growth Boundary ..................................................................... LU-20 General Plan Use and Maintenance.................................................... LU-21 Community Design (CD)......................................................................... CD-1 Introduction ..............................................................................................CD-3 Purpose of the Element.........................................................................CD-3 Historic Community Identity .................................................................CD-3 Land Use Pattern ...................................................................................CD-5 Urban Form of Solvang..............................................................................CD-6 Landmarks, Focal Points, and Gateways...............................................CD-6 Scenic Vistas and Open Space ...............................................................CD-6 Streetscape............................................................................................CD-6 Landscaping ...........................................................................................CD-6 Architecture...........................................................................................CD-6 249
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Urban Form Fundamentals....................................................................CD-6 Architecture ...........................................................................................CD-7 Landscaping ...........................................................................................CD-7 Streetscape ............................................................................................CD-8 Landmarks, Focal Points, and Gateways................................................CD-8 Landmarks and Focal Points ..............................................................CD-8 Gateways ...........................................................................................CD-9 Scenic Vistas and Open Space..............................................................CD-10 Goals and Policies....................................................................................CD-11 Design and Identity..............................................................................CD-11 Gateways .............................................................................................CD-12 Streetscape ..........................................................................................CD-12 Public Realm and Signage ....................................................................CD-13 Landscaping and Open Space ..............................................................CD-14 Site Planning ........................................................................................CD-15 Hillside Areas .......................................................................................CD-16 Design Districts ........................................................................................CD-18 Village Area Design District..................................................................CD-20 Elements of Old-World Danish Architectural Design...............................CD-21 Color.....................................................................................................CD-21 Half-timbered Architecture .................................................................CD-21 Wood Frame Styling.............................................................................CD-22 Roof Structure......................................................................................CD-22 Filling Materials....................................................................................CD-22 Overhanging Second Stories................................................................CD-23 Mission Design District ........................................................................CD-29 Elements of Spanish Colonial Revival Architecture .............................CD-31 General Design Parameters and Exterior Appearance ....................CD-31 Areas Outside the Design Districts ......................................................CD-34 General Design Parameters.............................................................CD-34 Economic Development (ED) ..................................................................ED-1 Economic Development.............................................................................ED-3 Tourism..................................................................................................ED-3 Commercial Services..............................................................................ED-3 Fiscal Health of the Community.............................................................ED-3 Labor Force ............................................................................................ED-3 Solvang’s Place in the Regional Economy..............................................ED-4 Economic Infrastructure ........................................................................ED-4 Mobility (MOB).................................................................................. MOB-1 Roadway and Functional Classifications................................................MOB-3 Senate Bill 743 ...................................................................................MOB-4 Pedestrian and Bicycle Network............................................................MOB-8 250

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Public Review Draft Table of Contents, April 2023 | TOC-3 Parking................................................................................................. MOB-13 Complete Streets................................................................................. MOB-14 Transportation Demand/ System Management ................................. MOB-16 Transit.................................................................................................. MOB-17 Public Facilities, Services, and Infrastructure (PFS)....................................PFS-1 Water Supply............................................................................................PFS-3 Wastewater..............................................................................................PFS-4 Solid Waste and Recycling........................................................................PFS-5 Law Enforcement, Fire Protection, and Emergency Services...................PFS-6 Law Enforcement..................................................................................PFS-6 Emergency Services..............................................................................PFS-7 Community Health ...................................................................................PFS-8 Parks and Recreation................................................................................PFS-9 Recreation Facilities ...........................................................................PFS-10 Education and Libraries..........................................................................PFS-14 Environment and Sustainability (ENV).................................................. ENV-1 Open Space and Conservation ................................................................ENV-3 Biological Resources................................................................................ENV-6 Historic and Cultural Resources ..............................................................ENV-8 Chumash..............................................................................................ENV-8 Tribal Consultation ..........................................................................ENV-9 Mission Santa Inés...............................................................................ENV-9 Danish Heritage and Early Settlement ..............................................ENV-10 Mineral Resources.................................................................................ENV-11 Water Resources...................................................................................ENV-12 Water Quality ....................................................................................ENV-13 Air Quality and Climate Change ............................................................ENV-14 Air Quality..........................................................................................ENV-14 Greenhouse Gas Emissions ...............................................................ENV-17 Energy................................................................................................ENV-20 Solid Waste............................................................................................ENV-22 Solid Waste Reduction and Recycling ...............................................ENV-22 Major California Recycling and Waste Reduction Legislation...........ENV-22 Safety (SAF).........................................................................................SAF-1 Emergency Preparedness and Response..................................................SAF-3 Disaster Preparedness and Avoidance .................................................SAF-3 Seismic Hazards........................................................................................SAF-8 Flooding..................................................................................................SAF-14 Reducing the Flood Risk .....................................................................SAF-14 Fire Hazards............................................................................................SAF-18 251
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Wildfire Risk....................................................................................... SAF-18 Hazardous Materials.............................................................................. SAF-23 Public Safety........................................................................................... SAF-26 Aircraft Hazards ................................................................................. SAF-26 Other Local Hazards........................................................................... SAF-27 Hazardous Trees ............................................................................ SAF-27 Noise ...................................................................................................... SAF-28 Noise Measurement .......................................................................... SAF-28 Public Health Emergencies .................................................................... SAF-34 Climate Impacts..................................................................................... SAF-36 Administration (ADMIN) .................................................................ADMIN-1 Land Use Element Programs.............................................................. ADMIN-3 Community Design Element Programs.............................................. ADMIN-4 Economic Development Element Programs...................................... ADMIN-7 Mobility Element Programs............................................................... ADMIN-8 Public Facilities, Services, and Infrastructure Element Programs ... ADMIN-10 Environment and Sustainability Element Programs........................ ADMIN-12 Hazard and Safety Element Programs............................................. ADMIN-15 252

1. INTRODUCTION
Public Review Draft Introduction, April 2023 | INT-1
Introduction
This Introduction to the 2045 Solvang General Plan begins with the purpose and use of the General Plan; explains how the General Plan was prepared; states the vision and guiding principles of the General Plan; describes the different analyses that informed the General Plan; gives an overview of the City of Solvang; explains the organization of the General Plan; and lastly, provides a guide on how to read the General Plan. 1 253
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Purpose and Use of the
General Plan
What is a General Plan?
Every jurisdiction in California must have a General Plan, which is the local government’s long-term framework or “constitution” for future growth and development. The General Plan is prepared with extensive community engagement to create a plan that expresses the community’s vision for its future.

California State law requires that each town, city, and county must adopt a General Plan for the physical development of the jurisdiction and any land outside its boundaries that bears relation to its planning. Typically, a General Plan is designed to address the issues facing the jurisdiction for the next 25 years. A General Plan typically has four defining features:
• General. A General Plan provides general policy guidance that will be used to direct future land use and resource decisions.
• Comprehensive. A General Plan consists of various Elements that are comprehensive, covering topics such as land use; housing; mobility/circulation economic development; sustainability and resiliency; public safety; recreation; natural resources; racial, social, and environmental justice ;and much more.
• Long-Range. A General Plan provides guidance on reaching a future envisioned 20 or more years in the future. To achieve the vision, a General Plan includes goals, policies, and implementation programs that address both immediate and long-term needs.
• Integrated and Coherent. The goals, policies, and implementation programs in a General Plan present a comprehensive, unified program for development, resource conservation, and other issues that impact the community. A General Plan uses a consistent set of assumptions and projections to assess future demands for housing, employment, and public services (e.g., infrastructure). A General Plan has a coherent set of policies and implementation programs that enables citizens to understand the vision of the General Plan, and enables landowners, businesses, and industry to be more certain about how policies will be implemented.

A General Plan is made up of a collection of “elements” that cover mandatory topics as well as topics important to the community. Eight elements are required 255
INT-4 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
to be included in the General Plan by the State. These are: land use, circulation, housing, conservation, open space, noise, safety, and environmental justice.

Though the required topics must be addressed in the General Plan, communities can organize their General Plan anyway they choose. Communities may also include other optional elements that address issues of local interest, such as Community Design and Economic Development for Solvang.

The General Plan is not to be confused with zoning. Although both the General Plan and the zoning ordinance designate how land may be developed, they do so in different ways. The General Plan has a long-term outlook. It identifies the types of development that will be allowed, the spatial relationships among land uses, and the general pattern of future development. Zoning regulates development through specific standards such as lot size, building setbacks, and allowable uses. However, the land uses shown on the General Plan diagrams will typically be reflected in the local zoning maps as well, as they are both required to be consistent per State law. Development must not only meet the specific requirements of the zoning ordinance, but also the broader policies set forth in the General Plan.

The 2045 Solvang General Plan meets the requirements of State law by containing the required elements and two optional elements as described in more detail later in this chapter under “Organization of the General Plan.” Some of the required elements address additional issues of local interest. Each element contains goals and policies that will guide future decisions within the City. They each also identify a set of implementation programs that will be used to ensure the goals and policies in the General Plan are carried out.

Using the General Plan
The General Plan is used by the City Council, Planning Commission, and City staff to make decisions with direct or indirect land use implications. It also provides a framework for inter-jurisdictional coordination of planning efforts among officials and staff of the City and other Federal, State, county, and local agencies.

City residents, property owners, and businesses use the General Plan for guidance on City policies for particular geographic areas or for particular subjects of interest to them.

The General Plan is the basis for a variety of regulatory measures and administrative procedures. California planning law requires consistency between the General Plan and its implementing programs, such as zoning and subdivision ordinances, capital improvement programs, specific plans, environmental impact procedures, and building and housing codes. The specific roles of the City Council, Planning Commission, and City Departments with respect to the approval and use of the General Plan are described below. 256

1. INTRODUCTION
Public Review Draft Introduction, April 2023 | INT-5
City Council
The City Council is the political body which adopts policies in Solvang. It is the City Council, through its decision-making authority, that affirms the policy direction and priorities contained within this General Plan. The City Council is ultimately responsible for adoption of the General Plan, as well as the regulations, capital improvement programs, and financing mechanisms that implement the General Plan.

Planning Commission
The Planning Commission is responsible for conducting public hearings on the General Plan and Zoning Code modifications, considering the input of the public, and making recommendations to the City Council on these matters. After the General Plan is adopted, the Planning Commission must ensure that all following land use ordinances, policies, guidelines, and development applications are consistent with the goals, objectives, and policies in the General Plan.

Other City Departments
All City Departments use the General Plan for policy guidance as it pertains to their operations, service delivery, and planning for future capital projects and potential service level changes. The City’s Planning staff ensure that that the General Plan is implemented on an everyday basis so that: the right land uses are proposed in the right locations, the right levels of service are provided, proposed land uses conform to development regulations, and the environment has been adequately protected. The General Plan is a resource for all City services and provides an internally consistent checkpoint for assessing alternatives for the future of Solvang.

Maintaining the General Plan
Over time, the City’s population will probably increase, its goals will develop, and the physical environment in which its residents live, and work will change. In order for the General Plan to be a helpful document, it must be monitored and periodically revised to respond to and reflect changing conditions and needs over time.

The General Plan should be reviewed every year, with a more comprehensive and thorough review and revision done every ten to twenty years ,as needed, to reflect changes in local conditions, new local priorities, or State law. State law permits the General Plan to be amended up to four times in any calendar year, unless special conditions apply as defined by Government Code Sections 257
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65358(c) and (d). Each amendment may contain more than one change to the General Plan.

General Plan Amendments can be initiated by the City or at the request of a property owner. Each General Plan Amendment goes through a public review process, including hearings with the Planning Commission and City Council.

Each Amendment is also subject to review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

Preparing the 2045 General
Plan
The development of the General Plan began in October 2020. The 2045 General Plan was shaped over a three-year period by an extensive public outreach process that engaged residents, businesses, developers, and decision-makers (see Community Engagement section later in this chapter).

Through the update process, the City and its consultants (General Plan Team), with input from the public and stakeholders, considered new, pertinent topics, such as climate change and resiliency, environmental justice, and public health, to ensure that Solvang is positioned to achieve its vision for the future.

Community Engagement
The update process involved multiple opportunities for the public to engage in the development of the 2045 General Plan. The City gathered community input through the following methods:
• In-person and virtual community workshops;
• General Plan Update website – www.plansolvang.com;
• eBlasts;
• General Plan Advisory Committee meetings;
• Design Review Committee meetings; and
• Planning Commission and City Council meetings, study sessions, and public hearings.

Community Workshops
The City hosted five community workshops for residents and stakeholders to share their ideas on how to shape the future of Solvang. 258

1. INTRODUCTION
Public Review Draft Introduction, April 2023 | INT-7
• On February 6, 2021, the City hosted (via Zoom) their first workshop. The purpose of the workshop was to provide an overview of the General Plan Update (PlanSolvang), relay opportunities to get involved in the process, collect input on issues and opportunities that should be addressed through the Plan, and receive initial feedback on a citywide vision for Solvang through 2045. The first workshop also included a series of interactive online activities to assist in identifying overarching challenges and opportunities, establish a clear vision for the future of the city, and assist in setting expectations for the project. • On April 8 and 9, 2021, the City held three identical workshops, two of which were held on the same day, at the Solvang Veterans Memorial Hall and via Zoom simultaneously. The purpose of these workshops was to provide an overview of the General Plan update process, present information on the existing conditions and trends that influences the future of Solvang and provide an opportunity for the public to provide input and ideas on the issue and opportunities that are addressed in the General Plan. During the workshops, we also gathered community input to help establish a long-term vision for Solvang’s future. In-person attendees were asked to participate in five workshop activity stations, whereas virtual attendees were encouraged to take part in the online workshop exercises.
• On January 13, 2022, the City hosted (via Zoom) their third workshop.

The purpose of the workshop was for the community to learn about the General Plan and provide their input on the City’s future, specifically related to future land use choices/mobility options and findings presented in the Land use Alternatives Report.
• On March 24, 2022, the City hosted (via Zoom) their fourth workshop.

The purpose of this workshop was to introduce the Housing Element and new State requirements, as well as an opportunity for the public to provide comments on housing concerns in the community.
• On May 11, 2022, the City hosted (via Zoom) their fifth workshop. This workshop had the same purpose as the fourth workshop, however there was a discussion on potential housing sites with residential capacity. • On July 18, 2022, the City hosted their sixth workshop, which was an inperson. The workshop focused on the whether the City should consider development of a pedestrian-oriented European Plaza in Downtown. 259
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General Plan Update Website
To help expand the outreach efforts of the General Plan, this project included a project website (www.plansolvang.com) to provide information on the process including information on the General Plan, meeting dates and locations, and related documents. The City used regular updates to the project website throughout the update process to keep community members informed and involved.
eBlasts
Throughout the update process, the City sent timely eBlasts announcing every workshop, all Planning commission and city council meetings, and announcing the availability on the Project Website of new publications. to the General Plan contact list, which included elected and appointed officials, City Staff, stakeholders, and engaged community members. People could join the contact list through a link on the project website, by signing-in at a General Plan community workshop or public meeting, or by directly contacting the City of Solvang.

General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC)
Meetings
To help City staff and the consulting team develop the update to the General Plan, the City formed a General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC). The GPAC serves as a sounding board for the discussion of issues, opportunities, and the development of the General Plan that will guide the community’s future.

Design Review Committee Meetings
To help preserve and enhance historical Danish and northern European architectural styles and the streetscape and the inherent qualities of a livable community that Solvang has, the Design Review Committee gave the City staff and the consulting team guidance on community design.

Planning Commission and City Council Meetings,
Study Sessions, and Public Hearings
The City held various Planning Commission and City Council meetings, study sessions, and public hearings throughout the update process to inform decisionmakers and the public, discuss key milestones, and provide direction for the next steps.
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Public Review Draft Introduction, April 2023 | INT-9
General Plan Guiding
Principles
On August 23, 2021, at a Joint Study Session, the City Council and Planning Commission adopted a set of General Plan Guiding Principles for the Solvang General Plan Update.

Guiding Principles
Heritage and Identity
We welcome visitors while maintaining our small-town character and honoring our multi-cultural heritage. Although originally established as a Danish community, we honor the positive traditions and values modeled by those who preceded our founders and their successors.

The Village
The Village is a small charming, safe, and walkable environment modeled on an Old-World Danish village that attracts visitors while supporting the social interaction, community events, and commerce of residents.

Economic Vitality
Our resilient, diverse, and sustainable economy supports both existing and new locally-owned businesses, including community-supported tourism. Residents and visitors continue to enjoy the benefits of a healthy business environment.

Neighborhoods
Our diverse residential neighborhoods are safe and quiet, buffered from the impacts of traffic, overflow visitor parking, and events. Residents enjoy the quality of life and social interaction provided by our multi-generational neighborhoods.

Cultural Resources
Residents and visitors value the unique character of our historic and cultural assets. The Danish Village, library, museums, art venues, theaters, and historic structures provide social, educational, and emotional richness.

Natural Environment
Our entire community values and champions the natural beauty of the Santa Ynez Valley and its agricultural traditions. The Santa Ynez River is recognized as 261
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a life-sustaining resource to be valued and protected. Our tree-lined streets, open spaces, parks, and landscaping continue to connect us to the natural environment and provide healthy living spaces and recreational opportunities despite the challenge of a changing climate.

Mobility and Access
Safe and accessible streets, multi-purpose trails, and sustainable multimodal transportation options conveniently connect people and places throughout town and to surrounding destinations in the broader Santa Ynez Valley while reducing the impacts of traffic on the community.

Regional Cooperation
Our community continues to avail itself of opportunities provided by regional planning and partnership to support the quality of life and safety of residents, and the experience of visitors.

Infrastructure and Amenities
Solvang maintains sustainable, efficient, equitable, site-appropriate, and resilient infrastructure and public amenities. We prioritize conserving all natural resources.

Resident Services
We provide a range of public services that support a diverse and multigenerational community.

Jobs and Housing
A wide range of housing options and living wage jobs provide a high quality of life. Solvang is committed to providing a variety of obtainable amenity-rich housing and sustainable neighborhoods for its residents.

Good Governance
Our government is transparent, supportive, and collaborative. It responds to the needs of all segments of the population with fair and equal protection.

Analyses Informing the 2045
General Plan
As part of the City of Solvang General Plan update process, the City prepared the following General Plan supporting documents:
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• Existing Conditions and Trends Workbook. The Existing Conditions and Trends Workbook tells the story of Solvang – where it has been, where it is today, and the trends that will shape its future and focuses on providing the foundational information about the physical, natural, cultural, and economic conditions and trends that set the stage for updating the General Plan.
• Land Use Alternatives Report. The Land Use Alternatives Report contains a series of potential land use alternatives, specifically related to future land use choices (alternatives) and circulation/mobility options. The potential land use alternatives are based on community feedback collected at the beginning of the project. This Report outlines a range of scenarios and the impact of each for the community’s consideration.
• Environmental Impact Report. The Environmental Impact Report (EIR) responds to the requirements of the CEQA as set forth in Sections 15126, 15175, and 15176 of the CEQA Guidelines Act. The Planning Commission and City Council will use the EIR during the General Plan update process to consider potential environmental implications associated with implementing the General Plan and to identify feasible mitigation measures for significant impacts. The General Plan EIR may also be used in the environmental evaluation of future projects. Future projects may be able to build (tier) their environmental review on the General Plan EIR if they are consistent with the General Plan.

The Solvang Community
In 1910, three Danish immigrants (Reverend Benedict Nordentoft, Reverend J. M.

Gregersen, and Professor P. P. Hornsyld), established the Danish-American Colony Corporation in hopes of creating the first Californian Danish-American colony. In January 1911, the Corporation purchased approximately 9,000 acres from the Santa Ynez Development Company, which had been instrumental in founding the towns of Santa Ynez and Los Olivos. The three founders named the colony Solvang, meaning “Sunny Fields” in Danish.

Early settlers to Solvang moved fast to create a strong and independent community. By 1914, Solvang constructed a hotel, multiple schools, a general store, a bank, and a vehicle repair shop to service vehicles on their way to southern California. During this period, Solvang established itself as a self-reliant agricultural community, in which many of the early settlers founded dairies and creameries.
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With the arrival of electricity and the automobile in the 1920s, Solvang continued to grow. As its economy grew, so did its population. To meet the needs of the community, more homes and businesses were constructed. This growth ultimately shaped Solvang into the city it is today. Many businesses had located on Main Street (today’s Copenhagen Drive) and Gaviota Road (today’s Alisal Road). Most of the residences were built along Lompoc Road, which is today’s Mission Drive (Highway 246).

By the 1930s, Solvang had become the largest town in the Santa Ynez Valley.

Lumber yards, drugstores, feed stores, meat markets, and car dealerships were all added to serve the growing population. In 1936, the 25th anniversary of Solvang’s founding, the residents held a three-day celebration honoring their Danish heritage. The celebration (June 5-7) included a torch-light procession, plays, pageants, a parade, and folk dancing and singing. In 1937, Solvang organized another communitywide celebration tied to its Danish history and the tradition of Danish Days was created.

By the mid to late 1940s, Solvang was losing its economic base. With World War II in full swing, many residents either joined the war effort or moved out of the area to find better job opportunities. After being named the “Danish Capital of America” by the Saturday Evening Post magazine in 1947, Solvang decided to fully embrace the concept of tourism. Businesses remodeled their storefronts and new buildings were constructed in the traditional Danish provincial style.

Danish style windmills, thatched roofs, and Danish street names became commonplace.

Solvang residents voted to incorporate May 1, 1985. The driving factors in the successful incorporation effort was independence from Santa Barbara County, making decisions locally, and control of the community’s finances. The first Mayor was Willi Campbell and the first city Administrator was Leo Mathieson.

Today, Solvang is much like it has been for the past several decades. Most neighborhoods consist of single-family homes. Solvang has evolved into a widely recognized tourist destination due to its unique architecture, surrounding wine country, and its proximity to Mission Santa Inés. The city’s economy and approximately 5,800 residents rely heavily on tourism. The city’s architecture and setting are well known throughout California and the nation, and the city’s identity and economic vitality are aligned closely to the aesthetic character of the community. The city’s compact development contributes to its charm and pedestrian-friendly atmosphere.
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Regional Setting
The city is located in Santa Barbara County, approximately 35 miles northwest of Santa Barbara and 15 miles north of the Pacific coast as shown in Figure I-1. The city of Buellton is located to the west, the town of Santa Ynez to the east, and the communities of Los Olivos and Ballard to the north. Solvang is located in the Santa Ynez Valley in the central part of Santa Barbara County. The city is surrounded by the Purisima Hills to the north, the upper Santa Ynez Valley to the east, the Santa Ynez Mountains to the south, and the lower Santa Ynez Valley to the west. Solvang is situated primarily along an alluvial plain formed by the Santa Ynez River and on the southeastern edge of the Purisima Hills State Route 246 bisects Solvang and provides a key regional east-west link between Highway 101 and State Route 154.
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Figure 1: Regional Context
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Solvang Planning Boundaries
Established as a General law city in 1985, and approved by the voters in November 2006 as a charter City, Solvang encompasses approximately 2.4 square miles. Existing land uses in the city consist primarily of the Village commercial, single-family homes, and open space,. The area surrounding the city consists primarily of low density residential, open space, and agricultural uses.

The Solvang General Plan uses several terms to describe the city and its planning boundaries:
• City Boundary. The political boundary that defines land that has been incorporated into a city. Solvang has land use authority over all land within its city boundary.
• Sphere of Influence. A sphere of influence (SOI) is the probable physical boundary and service area of the city, as adopted by a Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO). An SOI typically includes both incorporated and unincorporated areas within which the City will have primary responsibility for the provision of public facilities and services. • Planning Area. A General Plan, pursuant to State law, must address all areas within the jurisdiction’s Planning Area. The Planning Area encompasses all incorporated and unincorporated territory that bears a relationship to the long-term physical planning of the city. • Urban Growth Boundary. Cities use urban growth boundaries (UGBs) to establish where they intend to encourage and discourage land development through public-infrastructure investments, land-use regulations, land acquisitions, and other actions. Within the UGB, cities typically adopt land use policies that encourage urban development.

Solvang adopted its UGB in June 2020. The UGB is the same boundary as the Solvang city boundary.
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Organization of the General
Plan
The Solvang 2045 General Plan addresses the mandatory elements and includes several optional elements. Table 1 lists the elements of the Solvang 2045 General Plan and shows how the elements are organized to meet the mandatory requirements of State law.

Table 1: Elements of The Solvang 2045 General Plan
Solvang
Elements
State-Mandated Elements
Optional
Land Use
Circulation
Housing
Conservation
Noise
Open Space
Safety
Air Quality
Land Use ◼
Community
Design ◼
Economic
Development ◼
Mobility ◼
Public
Facilities,
Services, and
Infrastructure
◼
Environment
and
Sustainability
◼ ◼ ◼
Safety ◼ ◼
Housing ◼
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The 2045 General Plan is organized into 11 chapters (an introductory chapter, eight elements, a glossary, and an administration chapter), allowing users to find topics or sections that interest them. The policies throughout all elements work together and users must consider them comprehensively when making planning decisions. The chapters of the General Plan are as follows.

1.Introduction
The Introduction to the 2045 Solvang General Plan begins with the purpose and use of the General Plan; explains how the General Plan was prepared; states the vision and guiding principles of the General Plan; describes the different analyses that informed the General Plan; gives an overview of the City of Solvang; explains the organization of the General Plan; and lastly, provides a guide on how to read the General Plan.

2.Land Use (LU)
The Land Use Element establishes the pattern and intensity of land use in the city and sets forth policies and standards to guide future development. This Element serves as the primary vehicle for ensuring that new land uses are logically organized and developed in a way that preserves Solvang’s small-town charm.

3.Community Design (CD)
The Community Design Element looks at the key components of the City’s unique Danish style architecture as well as the overall physical environment and describes the features that, together, contribute to the distinct community character of Solvang.

4.Economic Development(ED)
The Economic Development Element focuses on supporting traditional employment sectors, including tourism, retail and service industries, manufacturing, construction, transportation, and warehousing, while ensuring the City is responsive to cost pressures, shifting consumer demands, and competition.

5.Mobility/Circulation (MOB)
The Mobility Element is designed to address all aspects of safely moving people and goods. This Element serves to meet the requirements of the Circulation Element as required for a General Plan. Mobility in tandem with land use patterns, 270

1. INTRODUCTION
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infrastructure, and access to active transportation options influence the character of neighborhoods, the location of specific land uses, and the overall form of the city.

6.Public Facilities, Services, and
Infrastructure (PFS)
The Public Facilities, Services, and Infrastructure Element guides decisionmaking concerning public and private infrastructure, utilities, and services.

7.Environment and Sustainability (E&S)
The Environment Element aims to preserve, protect, and enhance the natural and historical resources that make Solvang a unique place.

8.Safety (SAF)
The Safety Element establishes a policy framework for protecting people and property from unreasonable risks from natural disasters, noise, and other events.

It also focuses on disaster and emergency response.

9.Housing (HE)
The Housing Element ensures that there is adequate land in place to accommodate Solvang’s fair share of new residents. The Housing Element focuses on a pre-determined eight-year cycle extending from 2023-2031. The Housing Element will identify and address housing needs in the city in compliance with State housing law.

10. Glossary
This chapter provides a definition of the key terms and acronyms used in the Solvang 2045 General Plan. THE GLOSSARY WILL BE FINALIZED AFTER THE

INITIAL REVIEW OF THE GENERAL PLAN BY THE PLANNING COMMISSION AND CITY COUNCIL.

11.Administration
This chapter contains a consolidated list of all implementation programs. 271
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Readers’ Guide
Goals and Policies
Each element contains the goals and policies that the City will use to guide future land use, development, resource management, and environmental protection decisions. Figure 2 explains the standard format for goals and policies, using a sample goal and policy.

Figure 2: How to Read Goals and Policies
Goal
A goal is a statement that describes in general terms a desired future condition or “end” state. Goals describe ideal future conditions for a topic and tend to be very general and broad.
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Policy
A policy is a clear and unambiguous statement that guides a specific course of action for decision-makers to achieve a desired goal.
“Policies and implementation measures throughout the General Plan use terms such as “shall” and “should” to define the intentions of the City relative to these components. These modifiers are used as follows in the General Plan:
“Must” or “shall” or “required” are used to signify a mandatory requirement that the City will follow. For example, Policy SAF-4.2 says: “The City shall require new development and redevelopment to incorporate flood reduction measures into the project design in areas known to be prone to flooding.” Words such as “should” or “may” are used to signify a less rigid directive, that will be honored in the absence of compelling or contravening considerations. For example, Policy ENV-14.5 says: “The City should promote and encourage cogeneration projects for commercial and industrial facilities, provided they meet all applicable air quality standards and provide a net reduction in GHG emissions associated with energy production.” This provides flexibility in addressing the policy in the context of the project or proposal.

Implementation Tools and Actions
Many policies are specific enough to be applied and carried out directly as consistency with the General Plan is evaluated for future projects and actions.

The types of tools or actions the City can use to carry out these policies generally fall into the eight categories listed below. For each policy, a set of two- to fourinitial identifiers (shown in parenthesis at the end of each policy) tell the reader the tools or actions typically used to implement that policy. • Regulation and Development Review (RDR)
• Master Plans, Strategies, and Programs (MPSP)
• Financing and Budgeting (FB)
• Planning Studies and Reports (PSR)
• Services and Operations (SO)
• Inter-Governmental Coordination (IGC)
• Joint Partnerships with the Private Sector (JP)
• Public Information (PI)
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Regulation and Development Review (RDR)
Many General Plan policies are implemented through regulations adopted by the City based on the City’s constitutional police power to protect the public health, safety, and welfare. City ordinances also create a development review process that provides for City review of individual project proposals and authorizes the City to approve, deny, and condition projects based on their consistency with the General Plan. The following is a list of state, regional and County laws and regulations commonly used to implement the General Plan:
• City of Solvang Zoning Ordinance
• City of Solvang Subdivision Regulations
• City of Solvang Building Code
• CEQA
• Development Review Process (review and processing of discretionary permit applications)
Master Plans, Strategies, and Programs (MPSP)
The City has adopted strategies and programs focusing City attention on various types of services and facilities, types of development, or geographic areas.

These are prepared to provide more specific direction for City decision-makers, staff, and the public on how the General Plan will be implemented. They are not elements or components of the General Plan. The following is a list of some of the plans, strategies, and programs that the City has adopted:
• Water Master Plan
• Emergency Management Plan
• Santa Barbara County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan Financing and Budgeting (FB)
The development, maintenance, and operation of public facilities such as parks and drainage facilities and the provision of City services require financial resources that are derived from various sources. Programming of City capital projects and their funding over time is outlined in the City’s Capital Improvement Program. The following is a list of revenue sources used by or available to the City to support development, maintenance, or operation of public facilities and services:
• Property tax revenue
• Sales tax revenue
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• User fees
• Rents
• Development fees
• Quimby Act (Park) dedications
• Community facilities
• Bonds
• Special taxes
• Regional, State, and Federal funding
Planning Studies and Reports (PSR)
The City conducts studies and produces reports to collect and evaluate information related to specific issues. These studies and reports are undertaken at the direction of the City Council as needed or are prepared annually to report on the status and implementation of the General Plan.

Services and Operations (SO)
The City provides a broad range of services to its residents, businesses, and visitors and manages and operates its facilities to meet community needs. How the City provides services and carries out its operations makes a significant difference in how effectively the General Plan is implemented.

Inter-governmental Coordination (IGC)
The City must coordinate with numerous local, regional, State, and Federal agencies to implement the General Plan. These agencies provide services, facilities, or funding and administer regulations that directly or indirectly affect many issues addressed in the General Plan. The following is a partial list of public agencies that may play a role in implementing the General Plan:
• Local agencies such as other cities, Santa Barbara County, special districts, and school districts;
• Regional agencies such as the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District and Santa Barbara County Association of Governments • State agencies such as the Native American Heritage Commission; and • Federal agencies.

The County also recognizes unique public and private partnerships, which are described in more detail below.
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Joint Partnerships with the Public Sector (JP)
The City can combine its efforts with private sector efforts to improve public service delivery, manage public sector assets, or leverage private sector investment. By expanding the role of the private sector, the City can use its technical, management, and financial resources in creative ways to achieve objectives of the General Plan.

Public Information (PI)
The City can use a wide range of techniques to keep residents informed of City services or other issues of interest. Public information can be distributed through media such as brochures, pamphlets, the City’s website, workshops, seminars, public access television, radio, newspapers, public hearings, neighborhood and community meetings, City social media channels, and customer service hotlines. 276

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Implementation Programs
While many policies can be implemented as part of standard City operations, some policies require specific programs to ensure their implementation. The last section of each element includes a table of implementation programs in a format illustrated on Figure 3. Similar to policies, implementation programs that address one or both of the cross-cutting topics include an icon to highlight the implementation program’s relationship to these topics, as applicable.

Figure 3: How to Read Implementation Programs
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2. LAND USE
Public Review Draft Land Use Element, April 2023 | LU-1 Land Use
The Land Use Element establishes goals, policies, and programs to strategically accommodate future growth and change while preserving and enhancing the qualities that make Solvang a desirable place to live and work. The Element also contains the Land Use Diagram, a map of land uses within the planning area, and a description of the land use designations.
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Public Review Draft Land Use Element, April 2023 | LU-3 Land Use Diagram and
Designations
The 2040 General Plan designates land uses defining the type of development planned to occur throughout the city through the planning horizon year of 2040 (approximately 20 years). Development projections for the General Plan were determined by analyzing vacant and underutilized parcels within the city and the realistic level of development potential based on what is allowed under the applicable land use designation factoring for known physical constraints and/or regulatory requirements. (Source: New)
The core of the Land Use Element is the land use diagram and description of land use designations that classify and distinguish the various land uses in the City.

Corresponding levels of intensity, density, and allowable uses are defined in this section, as required by Government Code Section 65302(a). (Source: New) Planning Boundaries
The following planning boundaries are included as part of the 2040 Solvang General Plan:
• City Boundary. The city boundary is the jurisdictional limits of the city (incorporated area). The city boundary includes the area over which the City exercises land use authority and provides public facilities and services. State law requires jurisdictions to adopt a General Plan that, at a minimum, addresses physical development within this boundary. (Source: Alternatives Memorandum)
• Urban Growth Boundary. Cities use urban growth boundaries (UGBs) to establish where they intend to encourage and discourage land development through public infrastructure investments, land-use regulations, land acquisitions, and other actions. Solvang adopted its UGB in June 2020. The UGB is the same boundary as the Solvang city boundary. (Source: Alternatives Memorandum)
• Sphere of Influence. A sphere of influence (SOI) is the potential ultimate boundary and service area of the city, as adopted by a Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO). An SOI typically includes both incorporated and unincorporated areas within which the City will have primary responsibility for the provision of public facilities and services. (Source: Alternatives Memorandum)
Important Note
It is common for the Land Use
Diagram to be updated over
time. Please check with the
Solvang Planning Department
to ensure you have the current
version.
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• Planning Area. A General Plan, pursuant to State law, must address all areas within a jurisdiction’s Planning Area. The Planning Area encompasses all incorporated and unincorporated territory that bears a relationship to the long-term physical planning of the city. (Source:

Alternatives Memorandum)
Land Use Diagram
Figure LU-1, the General Plan Land Use Diagram, shows the distribution of the land use designations allowed within the City’s Planning Area. There are a total of 15 different land use designations that depict the types of land uses that will be allowed within the Planning Area.

The Land Use Diagram is intended to be more general than the Zoning Map.

While the Land Use Diagram guides zoning, it is not the same as the City’s Zoning Map. Each land use designation has corresponding compatible zoning districts.

Whereas the land use designations are intentionally broad, the zoning designations are more detailed and provide specific development standards, including permitted and conditional uses, building heights, setbacks, lot coverage, parking, landscaping, and architectural review requirements. 282

2. LAND USE
Public Review Draft Land Use Element, April 2023 | LU-5 Land Use Designations
Table 2-1 describes the land use designations along with their corresponding density/intensity standards:
• Designation. This provides the name of each land use designation and the acronym used when referring to the designation. (Source: New) • Color. Each land use designation has an assigned color used in the Land Use Diagram (Figure LU-1). (Source: New)
• Description. This describes the purpose and application of each land use designation. The City’s Zoning regulations provide further detail about uses allowed and permitted in zoning districts that implement the land use designations. (Source: New)
• Density/Intensity Standards. This describes development density or intensity. Designations allowing residential uses include a minimum and maximum density, expressed as dwelling units per acre (du/ac).

Non-residential uses include a maximum building intensity standard, expressed as Floor Area Ratio (FAR). Most non-residential land use designations also allow residential uses and include density standards as well. (Source: New)
Residential Density
Residential development is categorized by allowed
density (minimum and maximum) measured in dwelling
units growth per acre (du/ac). Accessory dwelling units are not included. Residential density is calculated by
dividing the number of dwelling units on a site (excluding accessory dwelling units) by the gross acreage of the
site. The image to the right shows prototypical
examples of different residential densities for one-acre properties.

State planning law requires general plans to include
standards for measuring population density. Population
density is determined by multiplying the maximum number of dwelling units allowed in a given land use designation by the average number of persons per household (as determined by the California Department of Finance). 283
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Floor Area Ratio (FAR)
Standards of building intensity for nonresidential uses such as office, commercial, industrial, and institutional development can be defined in terms of floor area ratio (FAR). FAR is an indicator of how much building space is permitted on a given site. The ratio is typically determined by dividing the total floor area of the structure by the area of the site. In the case of mixed-use developments that include residential uses, density standards are applied to the residential component while FAR standards are applied to the nonresidential component. A site includes all contiguous parcels that will share parking or access.

While FAR provides for overall development intensity, it does not specify the form or character of the building. Different interpretations of the same FAR can result in buildings of different character. To address aesthetic standards and infrastructure needs and encourage similar interpretations of allowed FARs, other City regulations such as zoning height limits, building setbacks, lot coverage, or open space requirements guide the form of buildings with a given FAR.
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Public Review Draft Land Use Element, April 2023 | LU-7 Figure LU-1: Land Use Diagram
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Table 2-1: Land Use Designations
Guest Ranch (GR)
This designation is established to recognize the approximately 30 acres of the Alisal Ranch located within the city. Allowed uses include guest lodging, employee housing, restaurants, and recreation and entertainment. (Source: Existing General Plan, modified) Density/Intensity Range
• Density: N/A
• Intensity: Up to 15,000 square feet per acre (0.34 FAR) Estate Residential (ER)
This designation allows for low-density, large lot single-family residential development. This designation is characterized by estate ranchettes with detached single-family residences. (Source: Existing General Plan, modified)
Density/Intensity Range
• Density: 0- 1.0 du/ 3 ac
• Intensity: N/A
• Corresponding Zoning: 3-E-1
Low Density Residential (LDR)
This designation allows for single-family residential development. This designation is characterized by detached single-family residences on large parcels. (Source: Existing General Plan, modified)
Density/Intensity Range
• Density: 0 - 1.0 du/ac
• Intensity: N/A
• Corresponding Zoning: 1-E-1
Low/Medium Density Residential (LMDR)
This designation allows for single-family residential development. This designation is characterized by detached single-family residences on large parcels. (Source: Existing General Plan, modified)
Density/Intensity Range
• Density: 0 - 2.0 du/ac
• Intensity: N/A
• Corresponding Zoning: 20-R-1, DR 1.8
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Public Review Draft Land Use Element, April 2023 | LU-9 Medium Density Residential (MDR)
This designation allows for single- and multifamily residential development. This designation is characterized by detached single-family and/or medium-density, multifamily residences on smaller parcels. (Source: Existing General Plan, modified) Density/Intensity Range
• Density: 3.0 to 7.0 du/ac
• Intensity: N/A
• Corresponding Zoning: 7-R-1, 8-R-l, 10-R-1, DR- 7
High Density Residential (HDR)
This designation allows for multifamily residential development. This designation is characterized by, duplexes, triplexes, row houses, apartments, and/or condominiums.

These properties could have increased density based on State Law. (Source: Existing General Plan, modified)
Density/Intensity Range
• Density: 8.0 to 20.0 du/ac
• Intensity: N/A
• Corresponding Zoning: DR-8 through DR-20
Mobile Home Park (MHR)
This designation allows for the development of mobile home parks. (Source: Existing General Plan, modified)
Density/Intensity Range
• Density: 0.0 to 8.0 du/ac
• Intensity: N/A
• Corresponding Zoning: MHP Mobile Home Park
Light Industry (LI)
This designation allows for a range of light industrial land uses. This designation is characterized by light manufacturing, research and development facilities, warehouses, and processing facilities. (Source: Existing General Plan, modified) Density/Intensity Range
• Density: N/A
• Intensity: 0.23 FAR
• Corresponding Zoning: M-1, GC
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Open Space/Recreation (OSPR)
This designation allows for public parks, indoor and outdoor recreation and entertainment uses, and open space. (Source: Existing General Plan, modified) Density/Intensity Range
• Density: N/A
• Intensity: N/A
Tourist Commercial (TC)
The Tourism Commercial designation allows for a mix of commercial establishments, residential, professional office, hotels, hospitality uses, visitor-serving uses, and entertainment venues. This designation provides for a variety of uses with an emphasis on visitors-serving within the Danish theme downtown area. The ground floor shall remain a non-residential use for all vertical mixed-use developments. (Source: New)
Density/Intensity Range
• Density: Up to 20.0 du/ac
• Intensity: 0.65 FAR
• Corresponding Zoning: TRC
Retail Commercial (RC)
This designation allows for commercial establishments intended to serve the everyday needs of Solvang residents. This designation is characterized by specialty shops, grocery stores, personal service establishments, and residential mixed-use development.

Residential is permitted in this designation only in a vertical mixed-use format. For vertical mixed-use developments, the ground floor shall remain a non-residential use. (Source:

Existing General Plan, modified)
Density/Intensity Range
• Density: 0.0 to 20.0 du/ac
• Intensity: 0.65 FAR
• Corresponding Zoning: C-2
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Public Review Draft Land Use Element, April 2023 | LU-11 General Commercial (GC)
This designation allows for large scale commercial establishments and is characterized by wholesale, heavy commercial uses, and residential mixed-use development. Residential is permitted in this designation only in a vertical mixed-use format. For vertical mixed-use developments, the ground floor shall remain a non-residential use. (Source: Existing General Plan, modified)
Density/Intensity Range
• Density: Up to 20.0 du/ac
• Intensity: 0.65 FAR
• Corresponding Zoning: C-3
Public/Institutional (PI)
This designation allows for a variety of public and quasi-public uses, and is characterized by schools, places of assembly, hospitals, and public utility facilities. (Source: Existing General Plan, modified)
Density/Intensity Range
• Density: N/A
• Intensity: 0.23 FAR
• Corresponding Zoning: I
Professional/Office (PO)
This designation allows for a range of office uses and is characterized by medical centers, general office uses, and residential mixed-use development. Residential is permitted in this designation only in a vertical mixed-use format. The ground floor shall remain a nonresidential use for all vertical mixed-use developments. (Source: Existing General Plan, modified)
Density/Intensity Range
• Density: Up to 20.0 du/ac
• Intensity: 0.65 FAR
• Corresponding Zoning: PO
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Goals and Policies
Balanced Land Use Mix
This General Plan emphasizes a balanced mix of land uses and infill development within the city limits and does not conflict with land uses that are rural and agricultural beyond the city’s Urban Growth Boundary. New development will occur where existing roads, water, and sewer are in place and in a manner that minimizes the impact of development on existing infrastructure and services. The General Plan focuses on city-centered growth and provides the policy framework to guide future development toward land uses that support walking, biking, and transit ridership. This approach is intended to maintain Solvang’s small-town atmosphere and encourage sustainable land use patterns, while increasing opportunities to grow the local economy.

Goal LU-1:

To promote high-quality development of a well-balanced and functional mix of land uses that preserves and enhances Solvang’s community character and tourism. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal 1, modified) Policies
LU-1.1: Compact Urban Form. The City shall maintain a compact urban form. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy 5.1, modified) RDR, [MPSP]
LU-1.2: Infill Development. The City shall support and promote infill development that is compact, mixed-use, and pedestrianfriendly. (Source: Existing General Plan Action 5.1.A, modified) [RDR, MPSP]
LU-1.3: Residential Land Use. Although most of the city is built out, the City shall designate a full range of residential land uses that provide for a variety of housing types, locations, and densities, including accessory dwelling units. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy 1.1, modified) [MPSP]
LU-1.4: Commercial Land Use. The City shall designate a mix of commercial uses, including retail, general, and tourist commercial, to promote both the tourist economy and the needs of residents of Solvang and the Santa Ynez valley. (Source:
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2. LAND USE
Public Review Draft Land Use Element, April 2023 | LU-13 Existing General Plan Policy 1.2 and Action 1.2.A, modified) [MPSP]
LU-1.5: Village Area. The City shall continue to encourage a mix of uses in close proximity to each other in the Village Area (including both the Village Core and Mission Design Districts), including governmental services and facilities, cultural and recreational activities, a broad range of retail activities, business offices, entertainment, transit services, and housing. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy 4.2 and Action 4.2.A, modified) [MPSP] LU-1.6: Mixed-use. The City shall encourage mixed-use developments with a residential component to further enhance the range of housing opportunities provided to residents. (Source: Existing General Plan Action 1.1.B, modified) [MPSP]
LU-1.7: Industrial Land Use. The City shall encourage the development of more industrial uses in the M-1 zone to expand the City’s job base, including light industrial facilities, research and development parks, and heavy equipment maintenance yards. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy 1.3 and Action 1.3.B, modified) [RDR]
LU-1.8: Support Existing Industrial Development. The City shall support maintaining and expanding existing industrial uses within the Urban Growth Boundary area, including changes that require a popular vote, if necessary. (Source: New Policy) [MSPS] LU-1.9: Open Space and Recreational Land Use. The City shall maintain and correctly designate an adequate amount of open space and recreational land uses to meet the needs of the entire
community, consistent with City park standards. (Source:

Existing General Plan Policy 1.4 and Action 1.4.B, modified) [MPSP]
LU-1.10: Public and Institutional Land Use. The City shall designate institutional land uses to meet the social, economic, cultural, spiritual, and educational needs of the community. (Source:

Existing General Plan Policy 1.5) [MPSP]
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LU-14 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
Residential
Residential neighborhoods will continue to be the predominant development pattern in Solvang. The magnitude of change anticipated for these areas is substantially less than what is anticipated for other areas of the city. Changes proposed in residential neighborhoods are more subtle, focusing on how to enhance the quality of these areas by improving characteristics such as connectivity, pedestrian safety, neighborhood character, and housing choice.

The General Plan encourages higher density residential uses to locate in areas with good transit access and close to shopping and service areas. When properly designed, this can encourage more walking, biking, and transit use, and provides a larger customer base for nearby businesses.

Goal LU-2:

To provide a variety of housing types that offer choices for Solvang residents and create complete, livable neighborhoods. (Source: New Goal)
LU-2.1: Regional Housing Needs Fair Share. The City shall provide an adequate amount of appropriately zoned land to accommodate new housing units to meet the City's fair share regional housing needs allocations. (Source: Existing General Plan Action 1.1.A, modified) [MPSP]
LU-2.2: Existing Neighborhoods. The City shall attempt to maintain and enhance the quality of existing residential neighborhoods, ensuring adequate public facilities such as parks, streets, water supply, wastewater, and drainage while implementing required State Housing Laws (Source: New Policy) [SO]
LU-2.3: Neighborhood Infill. The City shall allow infill development .as required by State Law include ADU’s, JADU and density bonus. (Source: New Policy) [RDR]
LU-2.4: High-density Residential Development. The City shall encourage new high-density residential development located in areas close to services and transit with appropriate site planning, and comply with objective design standards, and landscape criteria. (Source: Existing General Plan Action 2.1.B) [RDR]
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2. LAND USE
Public Review Draft Land Use Element, April 2023 | LU-15 Commercial
Commercial uses are intended to provide areas for retail sales and services demanded by residents and visitors. These locations are for commerce, employment, entertainment, culture, and appropriately sited residential uses.

Pedestrian-oriented activities are encouraged with public spaces and uses that draw a variety of people and offer a welcome setting. Commercial uses shall be designed to operate in harmony with adjacent neighborhoods and uses through the siting of buildings, transitions in scale, and appropriate land use mix.

Goal LU-3:

To ensure that existing and proposed commercial development in the city is consistent with the overall character of the city(Source: Existing General Plan Goal 2, modified)
LU-3.1: New Commercial Development. The City shall ensure that new commercial development is appropriately located and is
consistent with the Community Design Element of the General Plan. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy 2.2)
LU-3.2: High-quality Building Design. The City shall require distinctive and high-quality commercial building design, construction, and site planning that respects the character of Solvang and does not allow the use of “franchise architecture”. (Source: New Policy) [RDR]
LU-3.3: Commercial Amenities and Impact Mitigation. The City shall require new or expanded commercial or office areas to include provisions for adequate off-street parking, pathways connecting building entries to the public sidewalk, bicycle parking, mitigation of traffic impacts, adherence to architectural and lowwater landscaping standards, and mitigation of land use conflicts with adjacent residential uses. (Source: New Policy) [RDR]
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LU-16 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
Village Area
The Village Area is the heart of Solvang and plays a key role for the city. A mixture of recreational, dining, arts and entertainment, retail, commercial uses, and residential area make up the Village Area. The Village Area is comprised of two design districts including the Village Core Design District and Mission Design District. Both districts combined create unique gathering spaces that reinforce the organic and diverse built environment in Solvang. The vision for the Village Core Design District within the Village Area is to preserve and enhance Solvang as the “Danish Capital of America” and ensure that it is an economically vibrant, pedestrian-oriented, locally owned and operated premier destination. The vision for the Mission Design District within the Village Area is to connect the early settlement of the Santa Ynez Valley and construction of the Mission Santa Inés through consistent architectural design. For additional policies relating to both design districts, see the Community Design Element in the General Plan.

The Village Area also serves the community as a local gathering place where people socialize and engage. Policies in this section aim to preserve the historic Danish character of the Village, while supporting new development, including mixed-use, residential, and commercial projects. Additionally, this section guides development for infrastructure and amenities needed for the growth of the Village Area while attracting and retaining business.

Goal LU-4:

To protect, promote, and enhance the Village Area and the Village Core and Mission Design Districts. It is Solvang’s principal tourist attraction and the essential component of the City’s identity.
(Source: Existing General Plan Goal 4, modified)
LU-4.1: Tourist-Related Land Uses. The City shall assure that the Village Area is the primary focus of tourist related land uses. (Source:

Existing General Plan Action 2.1.A, modified) [RDR]
LU-4.2: Village Area Mixed-use Development. The City shall encourage a mix of uses and mixed-use developments that integrate housing and commercial uses in the Village Area. (Source:

Existing General Plan Policies 4.2 and 4.3, modified) [RDR] LU-4.3: Safe Pedestrian Environment. The City shall encourage and/or undertake design improvements in the Village Area to create a safe, convenient, and pleasant pedestrian environment. (Source:

Existing General Plan Policy 4.4) [RDR, MPSP, SO]
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2. LAND USE
Public Review Draft Land Use Element, April 2023 | LU-17 LU-4.4: New Pedestrian Facilities. The City shall require new development in the Village Area to include pedestrian-oriented amenities such as, but not limited to, lighting, wider sidewalks, clearly marked pedestrian crossings, seating areas,
landscaping, signage, and shaded areas. (Source: Existing General Plan Action 4.4.A, modified) [RDR]
LU-4.5: Pedestrian Facility Design. The City shall design and manage City roadway and pedestrian facilities to minimize conflicts between vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists, and encourage Caltrans to do the same on State highway facilities. (Source:

Existing General Plan Action 4.4.C, modified) [SO, IGC] Mixed-use
Mixed-use development blends residential and non-residential uses vertically within a single building within a larger development. The intention of mixing uses is to create vibrant and economically vital places for residents to gather, socialize, work, shop, and recreate close to where they live. This development pattern should create walkable centers of activity.

Goal LU-5:

To encourage mixed-use development projects that create vibrant, walkable districts. (Source: New Goal)
LU-5.1: Compatibility with Adjacent Uses. The City shall require new mixed-use development to be compatible with adjacent land uses, through site and architectural design techniques that establish buffers between uses and minimize negative impacts. (Source: New Policy) [RDR]
LU-5.2: Mixed-use Design. The City shall require new mixed-use development to minimize the number of access driveways, and provide pedestrian friendly access. (Source: New Policy) [RDR] LU-5.3: Pedestrian Orientation. The City shall require new mixed-use development to include amenities that create a comfortable environment for walking, sitting, and socializing. (Source: New Policy) [RDR]
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Industrial
Industrial district provides for manufacturing, research and development, flex space, industry incubators, and similar uses that range from to manufacturing and other industrial areas. The Light Industry designation supports “clean” industries including agricultural related industries that take advantage of the education and skills of the local and regional population. Industrial land use policies promote improvements in site planning to create places with attractive architecture and landscaping, and make employment areas accessible to vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit.

Goal LU-6:

To encourage, facilitate, and support the development of new employment and industrial uses. (Source: New Goal)
LU-6.1: Attract Industrial Uses. The City shall encourage and support new development of industrial uses that provide jobs for city residents, increase the tax base, and are designed and operated in a way that is compatible with surrounding uses. (Source: New Policy) [RDR]
LU-6.2: Industrial Design Standards. The City shall ensure that new industrial development contributes to the overall attractiveness of the community through appropriate site design, architectural design, and landscaping. And particularly at gateways to the city. (Source: New Policy) [RDR]
LU-6.3: Industrial Area Screening. The City shall require industrial development to screen loading and open storage areas so that they are not visible from public roadways. (Source: New Policy) [RDR]
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Public Review Draft Land Use Element, April 2023 | LU-19 Public and Institutional Uses
Like many other cities, Solvang includes a variety of public and institutional land uses that are both widely distributed throughout the city and reflective of the community’s rich history. Old Mission Santa Ines, other churches, the Veteran’s Memorial Building, City Hall, the schools, the library, the fire station, and other community serving institutions are all essential to the quality of life of residents. (Parks and recreational facilities are fully addressed in the Public Facilities, Services, and Infrastructure Element.)
Goal LU-7:

To ensure and preserve adequate space throughout the city for public and institutional uses. (Source: New Goal)
LU-7.1: Institutional Land Use Designation. The City shall allow the development of publicly owned facilities, schools, churches, hospitals and medical centers, cemeteries, and retirement care facilities and convalescent homes where appropriate. (Source:

Existing General Plan Action 1.5.A, modified) [RDR]
LU-7.2: Solvang Veteran’s Memorial Building. The City shall preserve and maintain the Solvang Veteran’s Memorial Building and encourage its use for appropriate community events. (Source:

New Policy) [RDR]
LU-7.3: City Hall. The City shall provide conveniently located public facilities to support local government and city services with appropriate public access and participation. (Source: New Policy) [RDR]
LU-7.4: Library. The City shall support a conveniently located public library facility with appropriate services, public access and participation. (Source: New Policy) [RDR]
LU-7.5: Senior Serving and Retirement Care Facilities. The City shall support senior serving and retirement care facilities.

LU-7.6: Mission Santa Ines. The City shall support religious, cultural, educational, community oriented, and agricultural uses at Mission Santa Ines that are compatible with existing land uses. (Source: Existing General Plan Action 1.5.B, modified) [RDR] 297
LU-20 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
Urban Growth Boundary
In early 2020 the Solvang City Council adopted, the Urban Growth Boundary Initiative (UGB) which sunsets in 2040. The UGB has several objectives, including promoting long-term planning stability, protecting agricultural land and open space surrounding the city, and ensuring maintenance of a greenbelt separating Solvang from other communities in the Santa Ynez Valley. The UGB also encourages infill development within the UGB and avoids sprawl. The City will not approve any development beyond the UGB, without a vote of the citizens, apart from certain exceptions described in the UGB (public schools, facilities, and services).

Goal LU-8:

To preserve the City's identity as separate and unique from surrounding areas. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal 6)
LU-8.1: Community Separators. The City shall work with Santa Barbara County and the City of Buellton to protect the agricultural areas surrounding the city boundaries and Sphere of Influence to serve as "greenbelt" open space to separate communities in the Santa Ynez Valley. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy 6.1, modified) [IGC]
LU-8.1: Open Space Designations. The City shall designate riparian and publicly owned lands along the Santa Ynez River, Alisal Creek, Adobe Creek, Alamo Pintado Creek, and other appropriate locations as open space. (Source: Existing General Plan Action

1.4.A, modified) [RDR]
LU-8.2: Compact Development Pattern. The City shall maintain a compact development pattern by promoting infill development that minimizes urban sprawl and is compact, mixed-use, and pedestrian friendly. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy 5.1 and Actions 5.1and 5.1.A, modified) [RDR]
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Public Review Draft Land Use Element, April 2023 | LU-21 General Plan Use and Maintenance
The Solvang 2045 General Plan is designed to be a living document that reflects the City’s needs and desires, which will evolve over time. The effectiveness of the General Plan ultimately depends on how the City implements and maintains the General Plan over its lifetime. This section is designed to ensure that the City provides for regular review and updating of this General Plan to ensure that it reflects the community’s needs and aspirations, as well as consistency with changes in State law.

Goal LU-9:

To promote the effective use and implementation of the General Plan Land Use Diagram. (Source: New Goal)
LU-9.1: Land Use Diagram. The City shall maintain and implement a Land Use Diagram describing the types of allowed land uses by geographic location and the density of allowed uses within each designation. (Source: New Policy) [MPSP]
LU-9.2: Zoning Designations. The City shall ensure that zoning designations and maps are consistent with the Land Use
Diagram (Figure LU-1) In addition, the City shall ensure that amendments to the General Plan land use designations, Land Use Diagram or General Plan text are consistent with the Guiding Principles, and relevant goals and policies. (Source: New Policy) [MPSP]
Goal LU-10:

To provide a clear framework for the ongoing administration, maintenance, and implementation of this General Plan consistent with State law. (Source: New Goal)
LU-10.1: General Plan Review. The City shall conduct a technical review of the General Plan every eight years and revise and update as necessary to assure compliance with State law and
responsiveness to current City needs, including a jobs/housing balance and adequate municipal revenues to maintain adequate level of public services. (Source: Existing General Plan Action

1.6.C, modified) [MPSP]
LU-10.2: Implementation Program Monitoring. The City shall maintain and annually review the General Plan Implementation Programs. 299
LU-22 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
As part of this process, the City shall update the prioritization of programs based on applicability, relevance, timing of initiation, and availability of funding. (Source: New Policy) [MPSP] LU-10.3: Eight Year Review of the Housing Element Update. The City shall, as directed by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), update and implement a
Housing Element every eight years that provides policy and programs to encourage the provision of safe, well-designed, accessible, sanitary, and affordable residential areas where people of all ages can live, work, and play. This includes an equitable distribution of parks and public facilities to all residential areas consistent with legal requirements. (Source:

New Policy) [MPSP]
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3. COMMUNITY DESIGN
Public Review Draft Community Design Element, April 2023 | CD-1 Community Design
The Community Design Element looks at the key components of urban form and architectural style in Solvang and describes the physical features that, together, create the city’s distinct community character. This Element provides a local context and anticipated urban design enhancements for the next 20 years relating to the urban form, architectural styles, landscape, lighting, pedestrian-oriented environments, and Design Districts. 3 Photo Credit: Elverhoj Museum of History & Art
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Public Review Draft Community Design Element, April 2023 | CD-3 Introduction
The Community Design Element describes Solvang’s existing character and needs with respect to urban form, landmarks, focal points, and gateways, scenic views and other features which influence the community’s unique identity. This element also sets forth the city’s goals and policies aimed at enhancing the city’s visual character. Design guidelines provide an overall framework for achieving the city’s design goals and policies.

Solvang has evolved into a highly popular tourist destination with the city's identity and economic vitality closely linked to the aesthetic character of the community. A community design framework ensures that the city's character is maintained and enhanced.

Feedback solicited from community members identified two primary design objectives: (1) maintain the distinctive Old-World Danish design and atmosphere in the Village Area and (2) ensure that development in areas of the city outside of the Village Area is of high quality and reflects the historic and rural character of the community. Both issues are addressed in this community design element.

Purpose of the Element
The purpose of this element is fourfold:
• To identify the existing character-defining features associated with community design in Solvang.
• To set forth goals, objectives, and policies which direct the City's efforts to respond appropriately to key community design issues. • To provide a cohesive design vision for both public and private development in the city.
• To establish priorities for both short-term and long-term actions to be taken by the City which implements the policies of this element and fulfills the cohesive design vision set forth in the element. (Source:

Existing General Plan Text, modified)
Historic Community Identity
The city of Solvang, with its Old-World Danish architecture and atmosphere, is one of California’s most unique communities. It is in an area settled originally by Native American tribes associated with the Chumash Peoples. In the early 19th century, a community took shape around Mission Santa Inés, one of 21 missions 303
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established in California by Spanish priests and settlers. But by the turn of the 20th century, Mission Santa Inés had fallen into disrepair. (Source: New Text) The contemporary history of Solvang begins in 1911 when Danish settlers purchased 8,882 acres of land to establish a Danish colony in the Santa Ynez Valley. They named their new town Solvang – “sunny field” in Danish – and the community grew quickly as Danes and Danish American farmers and entrepreneurs bought land and built homes and businesses. The community was centered around a Danish-style folk school for young adults and the downtown took shape as businesses were constructed to meet the needs of the new town.

Prior to World War II, Solvang’s Danish culture was very much a part of the community, but the town’s outward appearance did not reflect its cultural roots.

Buildings developed in the downtown area reflected rural American and Spanish Mission styles rather than the Danish style seen today. The landmark Veterans Memorial Hall was constructed in 1937 in the Spanish Colonial Revival style.

Bethania Lutheran Church, completed in 1928, was an exception and became the town’s first structure to reflect traditional Danish architecture. (Source: New Text) For decades, Solvang was a center of commerce serving the rural Santa Ynez Valley. In the 1940s and 1950s, Solvang underwent a major transformation, driven in part by the influx of visitors attracted by a feature story in the January 1947 edition of the immensely popular Saturday Evening Post magazine. New downtown buildings were constructed in the architectural style of Old-World Denmark with peaked roofs and faux half timbers while existing buildings were “redressed” in Danish style. The first of Solvang’s iconic downtown windmills was built in 1957 with two more constructed by 1964. (Source: New Text) During the 1960s and 1970s, tourism and retail sales grew substantially, generated primarily by weekend and seasonal tourism. The expansion of tourist related commercial activity continued for decades, primarily along First Street, Second Street, Copenhagen Drive, Mission Drive, and Alisal Road. Today, these streets represent the heart of Solvang’s Village Area. (Source: New Text) 304

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Public Review Draft Community Design Element, April 2023 | CD-5 Land Use Pattern
Solvang’s land use pattern is influenced by the intersection of Mission Drive (Highway 246) with two important Valley roadways; Alisal Road, which historically served as an entry to the Valley, and Alamo Pintado Road, which historically connected the community to Ballard, Los Olivos and the Pacific Coast Railway. (Source: New Text)
The Village Area is anchored by the Alisal Road intersection and is a unique concentration of tourist / recreation / commercial / residential uses developed with an Old-World Danish design theme. The Village Area includes the geographic center of the city and is the focus of many activities. (Source: New Text)
The City is encouraging the strengthening of the Village Area through pedestrian connections between properties and “face lifting” the backs of buildings for usage as cafes, public space, etc. (Source: Existing General Plan Text, modified) Immediately adjacent to the eastern edge of the Village Area is Mission Santa Ines, beyond which are agricultural land uses and Alamo Pintado Creek. The Alamo Pintado Road intersection anchors another important hub of commercial activity on the eastern edge of the city. It is characterized by retail stores and services, medical facilities, financial services, and offices, and is surrounded by residences. (Source: Existing General Plan Text)
The area to the south of the Village Area consists primarily of single-family residences and the Santa Ynez River. The city extends beyond the river to encompass the golf course, single-family residences along Rancho Alisal Road, and a guest ranch and resort. (Source: Existing General Plan Text) The western portion of the city is dominated by Hans Christian Andersen Park along Adobe Creek and the residential development of Skytt Mesa. Other land uses in the area south of Mission Drive include commercial and industrial uses at the westernmost edge of the city and mobile home park residences closer to the river.

The area immediately to the north of the Village Area is characterized primarily by residential neighborhoods. The northernmost portion of the city encompasses estate residential areas that extend into the foothills. Existing land use in the general plan study area surrounding the city consists primarily of open space land including the relatively undeveloped areas of the Santa Ynez River and the Santa Ynez Mountains flanking the southern portion of the city. Some of this area acts as de facto open space. (Source: Existing General Plan Text) 305
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Urban Form of Solvang
Urban form and urban design in Solvang are critical to the long-term success of the community. The unique urban form of the city has made it world famous and recognized as the “Danish Capital of America.” This Element perpetuates the intentional community design vision of the past and builds upon its success with additional design areas that are important and relevant for the Solvang community. (Source: New Text)
Five fundamental underpinnings make up the urban form of Solvang:
architecture; landscape; streetscape; landmarks, focal points, and gateways; and scenic vistas and open space. The Community Design Element focuses on these five fundamentals and will help shape future development in Solvang, embracing the City’s heritage while recognizing and planning for the future. (Source: New Text)
Architecture
Landscaping
Streetscape
Landmarks, Focal Points, and
Gateways
Scenic Vistas and Open Space
Urban Form Fundamentals
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Public Review Draft Community Design Element, April 2023 | CD-7 Architecture
The architecture used in the Village Area uses traditional Old-World Danish design elements. This architectural style is the primary feature contributing to Solvang’s identity and visual character. Perpetuating this traditional Danish themed architecture in the Village Area is key to maintaining community character. It is also important to ensure that development in the Village Area is high quality and authentic, and that the Village Area maintains a charming “small town” atmosphere. (Source: Existing General Plan Text, modified) Outside of the Village Area, the city is not uniformly developed with a single architectural style. For example, most residential neighborhoods are developed with traditional California ranch style. As a result, the Danish character of the city remains focused within the Village Area. (Source: Existing General Plan Text, modified)
The city has an opportunity to take advantage of the existing architectural difference between the Village Area and the remainder of the city. This is accomplished by establishing Design Guidelines to ensure high quality development within the Village Area, maintaining the rural character of areas outside of the Village Area, and providing a greater distinction between the Village Area and the rest of the city. (Source: Existing General Plan Text, modified) Landscaping
Landscaping is an important and valuable aspect of urban form that serves many functions. Apart from linking the community’s-built environment with the natural environment, landscaping contributes to a pedestrian-friendly area with shade, screening, decorative color, softening of architectural features, delineation of outdoor spaces, and erosion control. (Source: Existing General Plan Text, modified)
Cohesive functional landscaping within public or private areas can also complement the architectural character of development whether it is within the two distinct Design Districts or the remainder of the city. Landscaping can be used to emphasize gateways and focal points and frame the scenic vistas that link the city with the surrounding area. (Source: Existing General Plan Text, modified)
Considering Solvang’s constrained water supply, well-designed landscaping that meets the requirements of the state’s Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) is essential. It is also an invaluable component of the pedestrian-friendly small-town environment and streetscape enjoyed by tourists and residents. (Source: Existing General Plan Text, modified) 307
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Streetscape
Streetscapes offer immediate and lasting impressions of Solvang’s overall character, especially for pedestrians. The pedestrian’s perspective includes the material, width, and condition of the sidewalks, the availability of amenities such as street furniture, light fixtures, landscaping, and shade, , the use of signage, and the nature of street crossings. (Source: Existing General Plan Text) Streetscapes are also important to the experience of motor vehicles. This perspective emphasizes features such as parkways, medians, roadway signage, and utility lines. (Source: Existing General Plan Text) In Solvang, opportunities exist to enhance streetscapes in the Village Area to complement the area's architectural character. The enhancement of streetscapes can also provide greater differentiation between the Village Area and the surrounding areas. (Source: Existing General Plan Text) Landmarks, Focal Points, and Gateways
Landmarks and Focal Points
Landmarks and focal points are prominent natural or man-made features that are easily recognized and provide points of reference that people can use for orientation purposes. Also, landmarks often provide a sense of place and can make a lasting impression on visitors who may come to identify the community in terms of a landmark. (Source: Existing General Plan Text) Several landmarks and focal points exist in Solvang, including Mission Santa Inés, the Veterans Memorial Building, Bethania Luthern Church, Elverhøj Museum, numerous windmills throughout town, and the Rundetaarn Tower.

These structures are considered as landmarks based on considerations such as historic and cultural significant, location, and visibility. (Source: Existing General Plan Text, modified)
Development that includes major changes or demolition of these landmark structures should require enhanced City review that considers their importance to the community. (Source: Existing General Plan Text, modified) 308

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Public Review Draft Community Design Element, April 2023 | CD-9 Gateways
Major entrances to the city provide visitors with first impressions of Solvang and represent opportunities to enhance the city's identity. Most of Solvang’s visitors enter the city on Route 246 from the west or east, but others use Alamo Pintado Road or Alisal Road. These entry points should include special features (e.g., distinctive landscaping or signage) designed to offer a sense of arrival to the community. Naturally occurring features can be emphasized and / or enhanced.

New development proposed near these gateways should make positive contributions to these first impressions. (Source: Existing General Plan Text, modified)
The cedar trees lining Highway 246 between Buellton and Solvang are outside the city limits but create a memorable delineation of the entry into Solvang that can be further enhanced. The eastern gateway on Highway 246 near Alamo Pintado Road is an opportunity to create a more welcoming statement. Sunny Fields Park provides a similar opportunity at the northern gateway, and an entry statement could be made along Alisal Road at the Santa Ynez River bridge to the south. (Source: Existing General Plan Text, modified)
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Scenic Vistas and Open Space
The availability of scenic vistas and open space contributes positively to the visual character of the community and to the City’s economic viability. Scenic views are available throughout Solvang to residents and visitors. In the area south of the Village Area, scenic vistas include views overlooking the Santa Ynez River and views of the Santa Ynez Mountains. Given the high-quality of Solvang’s hillside areas, a key consideration is the need to establish a Hillside Development Ordinance with hillside development standards. Such standards would ensure that future development in hillside areas would not result in adverse effects upon the scenic quality of Solvang. (Source: Existing General Plan Text, modified) From a community design standpoint, open space is necessary to provide visual relief from the built environment. Part of the reason for Solvang’s successful tourism industry is that many visitors come to the area to enjoy the Village Area nestled in the rural setting. Solvang is endowed with a variety of open space features both within the city limits and in the surrounding area that contribute to the rural character of the community such as the Santa Ynez River, Alamo Pintado Creek, Alisal Creek, Adobe Creek, the golf courses, Hans Christian Andersen Park, Sunny Fields Park, Solvang Park, undeveloped land adjacent to Mission Santa Ynez, and entrance vistas. (Source: Existing General Plan Text, modified)
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Public Review Draft Community Design Element, April 2023 | CD-11 Goals and Policies
The following goal and policies build upon and include the City’s existing Design Guidelines and will drive the future community form and urban design characteristics of Solvang for the next 20 years. While all policies in this section are under a single goal, they are divided into sub-categories for added clarity. (Source: New Text)
Goal CD-1:

To establish the natural and man-made environmental balance of the city and to design and coordinate a unified community that will enhance the two Design Districts (Village Area and Mission) and the historic and rural image and character of the entire city. (Source: Existing General Plan, Goal

3.1, modified)
Design and Identity
Policies
CD-1.1: Community Identity. The City shall strengthen the visual identity of the city at its borders and in its spheres of influence to reflect the unique character of the community. (Source: Existing General Plan Objective, 1.0, modified)
CD-1.2: Design Elements. The City shall maintain a comprehensive, but flexible, design vocabulary of shapes, colors, textures, materials, fixtures, and symbols to maintain the city’s image in the design districts to differentiate the city from adjacent areas. (Source:

Existing General Plan Policy, 6.b, modified)
CD-1.3: Neighborhood Centers. The City shall promote the establishment of citywide recognizable village or neighborhood centers as part of future developments to enhance public and community gathering places. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy, 6.c, modified)
CD-1.4: Building Element Proportion. The City shall encourage building elements to be in proportion with existing development in all neighborhoods, including building massing and height. (Source:

New Policy)
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CD-1.5: Preservation of Community Identifiers. The City shall encourage the preservation or establishment of significant landmarks, view corridors, and focal points. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy, 1.d, modified)
CD-1.6: Commercial Development Maintenance. The City shall require commercial developments to regularly maintain their properties. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy, 7.l, modified)
Gateways
Policies
CD-1.7: Gateway Identification. The City shall identify and develop gateways including, pathways, primary entry points, and landmarks that distinguish the city from the surrounding region. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy, 1.a, modified)
CD-1.8: Gateway Components. The City shall support the
implementation of distinctive signage, paving materials, and environmentally friendly, drought-tolerant landscaping for primary entries to the city. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy,

2.b, modified)
CD-1.9: Wayfinding. The City shall establish consistent and coordinated roadway signage to direct visitors and residents from entry points to areas of interest throughout the city, including areas for parking. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy, 2.c, modified) Streetscape
Policies
CD-1.10: Collaboration with Cal Trans. The City shall coordinate with Cal Trans to find innovative approaches for roadway design
enhancements that are consistent with the design vision for which the city is known. (Source: New Policy)
CD-1.11: Streetscape Continuity. The City shall promote visual continuity along city streets through consistent use of hardscape
materials, landscape plantings, street lighting, and directional signage which reinforce the hierarchy of the street system established in the Mobility Element of the General Plan. (Source:

Existing General Plan Policy, 3.a, modified)
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3. COMMUNITY DESIGN
Public Review Draft Community Design Element, April 2023 | CD-13 CD-1.12: Multi-Modal Streetscapes. The City shall require new development to create and/or upgrade streetscapes to be multimodal, thus creating streetscapes that are walkable, pedestrianoriented, tree-shaded, and bike-friendly. (Source: New Policy) CD-1.13: Emphasis of Nodes. The City shall encourage streetscape treatments at activity nodes and major decision-making points by use of changes in paving materials and lighting, accent plantings and theme signage to reinforce their importance. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy, 3.c)
CD-1.14: Street Trees and Tree Canopy. The City shall require street trees citywide, including in medians, to create an expanded tree canopy and to reduce the urban heat island effect. (Source:

Existing General Plan Policy, 3.e, modified)
Public Realm and Signage
Policies
CD-1.15: Streamlined Public Places. The City shall reduce visual clutter along city streets, particularly temporary sidewalk signs and sidewalk merchandise sales. (Source: Existing General Plan Objective, 4.0, modified)
CD-1.16: Compliance with Sign Standards. The City shall require all signs to meet design standards criteria and to be consistent with the overall streetscape design. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy,

4.a, modified)
CD-1.17: Implementation of Public and Municipal Signs. The City shall restrict public and municipal signs to those that are necessary to ensure public safety, control, or direct traffic, and provide locational information. The use of internationally recognized symbols to display information shall be required wherever possible. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy, 4.b, modified) CD-1.18: Design of Public and Municipal Signs. The City shall require that public and municipal signs be designed per the streetscape standards and installed to minimize their adverse aesthetic impact. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy, 4.b, modified) CD-1.19: Multi-tenant Signs. The City shall require multi-tenant buildings or developments to provide consolidated commercial signage 313
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to limit the overuse of signs on a single building and/or site. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy, 4.d, modified)
CD-1.20: Cohesive Signage. The City shall require signage to be integrated into the overall site and architectural design process to provide signs that are consistent with architectural style, color, material, and landscaping themes. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy, 4.f)
CD-1.21: Promotion of Outdoor Community Gathering Spaces. The City shall promote the location and development of outdoor public focal points and gathering places in a hierarchy of interest ranging from neighborhoods, design districts (Village Area and Mission Area), to citywide. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy,

6.e, modified)
Landscaping and Open Space
Policies
CD-1.22: Application of Open Space and Landscaping. The City shall apply open space, landscaping, and urban design standards and guidelines for commercial and residential developments to strengthen the identity and image of the city. (Source: Existing General Plan Objective, 6.0, modified)
CD-1.23: Drought-tolerant Landscaping. The City shall require that all public landscaping in medians, on City property, and within public gathering spaces is drought tolerant. (Source: New Policy) CD-1.24: Sustainable Landscape Design. The City shall require landscaping plans for all development to include drought tolerant plants with low water irrigation consistent with State law and to maximize the use of trees for energy efficiency, climate control, screening, shading (especially of parking lots), and aesthetics. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy, 9.c and Existing General Plan Design Guideline, Landscape/Hardscape Outside the Village Area, 16, modified)
CD-1.25: Linkages through Open Space. The City shall promote citywide linkages using open spaces areas, parks, trails, and paths to connect activity centers, residential neighborhoods, commercial centers, and the Village Area. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy, 6.d, modified)
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Public Review Draft Community Design Element, April 2023 | CD-15 CD-1.26: Landscaping Buffering. The City shall require the use of landscaping such as trees, shrubs, and trellised vines to mitigate the effects of building mass and provide benefits to the environment. (Source: New Policy)
CD-1.27: Landscape and Open Space Buffering. The City shall require open space uses or landscaped buffers into new development where appropriate to improve aesthetic appeal and provide buffers between potentially incompatible uses within the city. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy, 7.a, modified)
CD-1.28: Use of Form to Define Edges. The City shall use greenbelts, open space areas, signage, and gateway features to define
community edges and form. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy, 6.f, modified)
CD-1.29: Tree and Natural Feature Preservation. The City shall require the preservation of existing trees and natural features (e.g., drainage courses, rock outcrops) in the overall landscape design to the maximum extent feasible. (Source: Existing General Plan Design Guideline, Landscape/Hardscape Outside the Village Area, 16, modified)
Site Planning
Policies
CD-1.30: Compatibility with Existing Development. The City shall ensure that new development incorporates design features that provide transition from existing development, specifically when adjacent development is of lesser density and/or intensity. (Source: New Policy)
CD-1.31: Undergrounding of Utilities. The City shall require that utilities be underground in new development to the maximum extent feasible. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy, 7.b, modified) CD-1.32: Incorporate of the Natural Grade. The City shall require new streets and development to be designed to follow and
incorporate the natural features of the landscape. (Source:

Existing General Plan Policy, 7.d, modified)
CD-1.33: Sustainable Site Design. The City shall encourage new development to incorporate climate considerations into site 315
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design and include sustainable design methods to address solar access, water conservation and retention, and wind conditions. (Source: New Policy)
CD-1.34: Developments in High Visibility Areas. The City shall ensure that new development on sites with high visibility, such as on hillsides or in the highway corridors is designed to minimize adverse visual impact. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy, 7.e, modified)
CD-1.35: Variation in Multifamily Residential Site Planning. The City shall require the use of varied setbacks, lot orientation, and placement of dwelling units for new multifamily residential developments. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy, 7.g, modified)
CD-1.36: Clustering of Development. The City shall encourage cluster style development to maximize open space preservation and density for diversity of housing types. (Source: New Policy) CD-1.37: Residential Lot Width. The City shall encourage lot width along residential streets to be varied. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy, 7.h)
Hillside Areas
Policies
CD-1.38: Hillside Development. The City shall require new development on major ridge lines, canyon edges, and hilltops to be designed and constructed to blend into the natural environment without creating adverse visual impacts. Such design and construction techniques should include siting, massing, scale, and grading that are visually consistent with the natural topography. (Source:

Existing General Plan Policy, 8.d, modified)
CD-1.39: Natural Grade and Slopes. The City shall ensure any all-hillside grading maintain the natural appearance of slopes. (Source:

Existing General Plan Policy, 8.a, modified)
CD-1.40: Slope Stabilization. The City shall require revegetation of graded slopes to assist in slope stabilization. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy, 8.b)
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Public Review Draft Community Design Element, April 2023 | CD-17 CD-1.41: Hillside Landscape Design. The City shall require hillside residential development projects to use plant materials which screen structures and present an appearance that integrates residences with the natural appearance of the area. (Source:

Existing General Plan Design Guideline, Landscape/Hardscape Outside the Village Area, 15)
CD-1.42: Fencing in Hillside Areas. The City shall require fences on hillsides to be of open design to allow passage of native wildlife. (Source: New Policy)
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Design Districts
Community design in Solvang involves three basic themes. These themes are further defined in a set of Design Districts (see Figure CD-1). For the purpose of the Community Design Element, the city is divided into three areas: (Source: New Text)
• Village Area Design District (Village Area)
• Mission Design District
• Areas Outside the Design Districts
The intent of the Design Districts within the Community Design Element is to continue the tradition in Solvang of creating unique and identifiable districts in the city that provide differences in both development and community gathering spaces. Rather than focusing on specific uses or densities in these areas, which are addressed in the Land Use Element, the Community Design Element focuses on the integration of design, overall urban form, design driven connectivity, and compatibility between varying development types. Both Design Districts and areas outside the Design Districts are described below with supporting policies.

While all policies in this section are under a single goal, they are divided into subcategories for added clarity. (Source: New Text) Goal CD-2:

To maintain and enhance unique, vibrant, and architecturally diverse districts in the city that evoke community traditions and history. (Source:

New Goal)
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3. COMMUNITY DESIGN
Public Review Draft Community Design Element, April 2023 | CD-19 Figure CD-1: Design Districts
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CD-20 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
Village Area Design District
The Village Area Design District has been developed based on the Old-World Danish design theme. This theme suggests the character and feeling of a small Danish village with an orientation to pedestrians. It is the “old world” charm of such design that provides Solvang with its unique identity and attracts tourism.

It is the intent of this district to focus primarily on pedestrian movement and have the automobile be secondary. The Village Area Design District includes all properties currently with the Tourist Commercial General Plan Designation and Tourist Related Commercial (TRC) Zoning Designation (see Figure CD-2). In addition, the district includes properties directly adjacent to Mission Drive (Highway 246) heading west of the Village Area, from Fifth Street to the city limits. This district currently includes several buildings that reflect Old-World Danish style architecture and act as a thematic gateway to the city for residents and visitors coming from Highway 101 and Buellton. (Source: New Text) 320

3. COMMUNITY DESIGN
Public Review Draft Community Design Element, April 2023 | CD-21 Elements of Old-World Danish
Architectural Design
Color
Old-World Danish style buildings are often known for their vibrant colored paint alongside dark wood framing and half timbers. Buildings were painted to protect the materials from weather but was also a stylistic choice and a sign of wealth, social status, and the overall style of the time. The most common paint colors used throughout Denmark in the Middle Ages were red and dark ochre (a dark earth tone yellow) along with white window frames because these were the cheapest and most accessible pigments in the region and held up the most against the elements. Some buildings were painted blue or green, however, these pigments were expensive and rare, so they were often a sign of wealth and high social status. It was important that the colors varied from building to building to distinguish between each individual property and prevent monotony. However, this often was not an issue in older towns because overtime colors, especially red, would fade adding various lighter hues such as pink, pale yellow, and light blue or green. In the 17th and 18th centuries pale colors – such as white, cream, and grey – became popular to mimic stone, which was a scarce and high-quality building material in Denmark. (Source: New Text)
Half-timbered Architecture
Traditional European half-timbered architecture is where external and internal walls are constructed of timber frames, and the spaces between the structural members are filled with materials such as brick, plaster, or wattle and daub. Halftimbered architecture has been used for thousands of years in various regions of the world. It is characteristic of Medieval and early modern Denmark, England, Germany, and parts of France and Switzerland. The term half-timbered came from the practice of splitting logs in half so one log could be used for two or more posts and the cut side was traditionally on the exterior of the building. This style of architecture was used in regions where stone was in short supply and where wood craftmanship was a more common skill. It was used for a variety of development of the time, from single-story countryside homes to six-seven story buildings in populated towns. In the 15th century it became common for lower floors of a building to be masonry and upper floors half-timbered. This structural design made the first floor more protected from thieves, but also provided a strong base that could support tall wooden structures. (Source: New Text) 321
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Wood Frame Styling
The characteristic contrast between dark timber frames and light or bright fillings became popular in the 15th and 16th centuries as a decorative architectural style. The exposed wooden beams, usually on the lower levels, were often adorned with elaborate designs or carvings that represented regional traditions and motifs and demonstrated highly skilled wood craftmanship. (Source: New Text)
Roof Structure
The steep roofs, characteristic of European half-timbered architecture, were designed to be less likely to collapse under heavy snow buildup in the winter.

Since the roofs were so steep, it was common to have several stories under the roof plane, which is why many buildings have dormer windows (smaller roofed window structures constructed in the middle of the roof) or gable windows (windows in the triangle portion of the wall between the roof pitches). (Source:

New Text)
Filling Materials
The filling between the wood frames was reflective of wealth, social status, and the materials available to people in each region. The cheapest and most common infill material used in the Middle Ages in Europe was wattle and daub, a composite material where small twigs are woven together (wattle) and coated with a thick sticky material made usually of clay, mud, or sand (daub). Buildings using wattle and daub were typically plastered and painted for better appearance and protection from the elements. More expensive building materials, such as stone and brick, were sometimes used for the infill of half-timbered buildings, however, it was not common since these materials were in short supply in Denmark. A popular infill material design in the 15th and 16th centuries was brick infill laid in a herringbone pattern. If more expensive materials were used, they were almost never painted as they were a sign of wealth and high social status. (Source: New Text)
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3. COMMUNITY DESIGN
Public Review Draft Community Design Element, April 2023 | CD-23 Overhanging Second Stories
Medieval European architecture will often show upper floors overhanging the lower ones. One of the theories on why this occurred is that buildings in cities were often taxed based on the street frontage used. So, a high, narrow house would be taxed less, but interior space on the upper floors was maximized to the benefit of the property owner. This style also protected lower floors and street from rain and snow.

General Design Parameters
Policies
CD-2.1: Village Area Old-World Danish Architecture. The City shall require all new development and redevelopment of existing properties to be designed using the theme and design
vernaculars of traditional and historic Old-World Danish architecture. (Source: Existing General Plan Design Guideline, 1, modified)
CD-2.2: Village Area Design Standards. The City shall retain comprehensive and consistent design standards for the Village Area that sustain and enhance the existing trademark
architectural vernacular that reflects Old-World Danish architecture. (Source: Existing General Plan Objective, 5.0, modified)
CD-2.3: Village Area Expansion. The City shall retain the Village Area Design District. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy, 5.b, modified)
CD-2.4: Signs in the Village Area Design District. The City shall collaborate with public and private groups to promote special events using a designed and consistently located and applied to banner per a temporary sign plan for areas within the Village Area. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy, 5.d, modified) CD-2.5: Parking Lot and Alley Maintenance. The City shall require ongoing maintenance by property owners of private parking lots and alleys in the Village Area. (Source: New Policy)
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CD-2.6: Village Area Lighting. The City shall require street and structure lighting using Dark Skies standards to minimize visual and ecological impacts by preventing glare, limiting the amount of light that falls on neighboring properties, and avoiding light pollution of the night sky. (Source: New Policy)
CD-2.7: Village Area Wayfinding. The City shall provide wayfinding to denote the location and route for visitors to visit landmarks and focal points in the Village Area. (Source: New Policy)
CD-2.8: Village Area Parking Lots and Structures. The City shall require all parking lot and structures to include design or screening methods to minimize the visual and lighting impact on
surrounding neighborhoods and the environment. (Source: New Policy)
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3. COMMUNITY DESIGN
Public Review Draft Community Design Element, April 2023 | CD-25 Figure CD-2: Village Area Design District
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CD-26 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
Exterior Appearance
Policies
CD-2.9: Architectural Design Features. The City shall require the use of Old-World Danish architectural style throughout the Village Area and shall enforce the Design Guidelines as adopted. (Source:

Existing General Plan Design Guideline, 10, modified)
CD-2.10: Awnings. The City shall encourage awnings on doors and windows to accentuate the architectural character of buildings. (Source: Existing General Plan Design Guideline, 9, modified) CD-2.11: Varied Elevations. The City shall require new buildings within the Village Area to incorporate varied elevations to create additional visual interest. (Source: Existing General Plan Design Guideline, 7, modified)
CD-2.12: Blank Walls. The City shall prohibit the use of blank walls fronting a primary or secondary street. (Source: New Policy) CD-2.13: Roof Styles. The City shall require all new buildings to incorporate roof designs and pitch that reflect Old-World Danish design. (Source: Existing General Plan Design Guideline, 4, modified)
Siting
Policies
CD-2.14: Fenestration in relation to Building Orientation. The City shall encourage new buildings in the Village Area, specifically along Mission Drive, to be oriented toward the primary street front and include fenestration in the form of doors and windows. (Source:

Existing General Plan Design Guideline, Exterior Appearance 2, modified)
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3. COMMUNITY DESIGN
Public Review Draft Community Design Element, April 2023 | CD-27 CD-2.15: Parking Access. The City shall require when feasible, that vehicular parking is accessed from an alley, easement, or secondary street, and not the primary street, to limit interference with the pedestrian experience. (Source: Existing General Plan Design Guideline, Siting 3, modified)
CD-2.16: Parking Location. The City shall require that parking is not located or oriented at the front of the building. (Source: Existing General Plan Design Guideline, Exterior Appearance 4, modified) CD-2.17: Parking Areas. The City shall require that parking areas do not conflict with pedestrian-oriented areas and pathways. (Source:

Existing General Plan Design Guideline, Siting 6, modified) CD-2.18: Pedestrian Experience. The City shall encourage new development to provide internal pedestrian spaces, pathways, walkways, and/or openings that face the street. (Source: Existing General Plan Design Guideline, Siting 9, modified)
CD-2.19: Courtyards and Gathering Spaces. The City shall encourage all developments to include courtyards and gathering spaces to emulate that of European cities. Developments are encouraged to include seating areas, lighting, public art, landscaping, dining areas, and other public amenities in courtyards. (Source: Existing General Plan Design Guideline, Siting 11, modified)
Landscape/Hardscape
Policies
CD-2.20: Landscaping. The City shall encourage landscaping to be used to relieve the appearance of solid unbroken elevations. (Source:

Existing General Plan Design Guideline, Landscape/Hardscape in the Village Area, 3)
CD-2.21: Modern Landscaping. The City shall prohibit modern landscaping techniques (e.g., earth mounding and the use of boulders) in the Village Area. (Source: Existing General Plan Design Guideline, Landscape/Hardscape in the Village Area, 6, modified)
CD-2.22: Tree Grates. The City shall require the use of tree grates around trees in walkways. (Source: Existing General Plan Design 327
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Guideline, Landscape/Hardscape in the Village Area, 10, modified)
CD-2.23: Landscaping and Lighting. The City shall require, for safety reasons, that all trees and landscaping do not block or obscure parking lot and street lighting. (Source: Existing General Plan Design Guideline, Landscape/Hardscape Outside the Village Area, 4, modified)
CD-2.24: Landscaping Visibility. The City shall require that landscaping does not block the vision of motorists at pedestrian crossings. (Source: Existing General Plan Design Guideline, Landscape/ Hardscape in the Village Area, 12, modified)
CD-2.25: Walking Surface Paving. The City shall require decorative paving materials for all walking surfaces consistent with the surroundings. (Source: Existing General Plan Design Guideline, Landscape/Hardscape in the Village Area, 17, modified)
CD-2.26: Solid Waste and Recycling Enclosures. The City shall require that solid waste and recycling enclosures be treated and integrated into the overall site design and are screened. (Source:

Existing General Plan Design Guideline, Landscape/Hardscape in the Village Area, 25, modified)
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3. COMMUNITY DESIGN
Public Review Draft Community Design Element, April 2023 | CD-29 Mission Design District
Solvang has a rich history cross cutting multiple ethnic and cultural groups with different architectural styles and histories. In addition to the world famous OldWorld Danish inspired Village Area, Solvang is also home to Mission Santa Inés, established in 1804 and is part of the 21 Spanish Missions that stretch 600 miles across California along the El Camino Real.

The Mission Design District is intended to provide a visual and architectural connection to the Mission Santa Inés, which is located southeast of the intersection of Alisal Road and Mission Drive (Highway 246). The Mission Design District includes the Mission Santa Inés site and runs east of Solvang along Highway 246. The district encompasses properties fronting the highway, including adjacent commercial centers and residential developments along Alamo Pintado Road (See Figure CD-3). The Mission Design District will focus on the Spanish Colonial Revival architectural style. An assortment of the existing buildings and developments in the district already embrace the Spanish Colonial Revival design style and architectural features. The Mission Design District is meant to remain separate from the Village Area Design District and provide yet another unique themed area for community members to socialize and for visitors to shop and visit.
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Figure CD-3: Mission Design District
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3. COMMUNITY DESIGN
Public Review Draft Community Design Element, April 2023 | CD-31 Elements of Spanish Colonial Revival
Architecture
The following graphic illustrates many of the standard architectural elements and design applications that are associated with the Spanish Colonial Revival architectural style. The Mission Design Districts includes a series of policies intended to implement several of these critical design elements.

General Design Parameters and Exterior Appearance
Policies
CD-2.27: Spanish Colonial Revival Architecture Requirement. The City shall require all new development and redevelopment to be designed using the theme and design vernaculars of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. (Source: New Policy and Existing General Plan Design Guideline, Outside the Village 1, modified) CD-2.28: Spanish Style Signage. The City shall require cohesive sign designs that are consistent with the Spanish Colonial Revival architectural style of the Mission Design District. (Source: New Policy)
Drought-Tolerant
Landscaping
Low-pitched Gable Roof
Decorative Venting
Arched Fenestration
Front Porch or Stoop
Stucco Cladding
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CD-32 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
CD-2.29: Landscaping. The City shall require landscaping to be drought tolerant, with an emphasis on native and Mediterranean
landscaping. Palm trees are prohibited as part of any
landscaping plan in this Mission Design District. (Source: New Policy)
CD-2.30: Stucco Cladding. The City shall require the exterior of buildings to use stucco cladding as the primary, but not exclusive, exterior building material. (Source: New Policy)
CD-2.31: Arcades. The City shall encourage the use of arcades with porticos. (Source: New Policy)
CD-2.32: Roof Style. The City shall require that roof structures are low in pitch using the gable application. Roof materials and
configurations shall be compatible with the architectural style.

The use of wood or composite shingles is prohibited. (Source:

New Policy)
CD-2.33: Decorative Elements. The City shall encourage the use of decorative elements, such as adobe and brick in foundations, tile on entrance steps, decorative attic vents, and chimney caps. (Source: New Policy)
CD-2.34: Front Entries. The City shall encourage the incorporation of a front entry porch, stoop, or similar covered front entry element at the primary entrance to the building. (Source: New Policy) CD-2.35: Gathering Spaces. The City shall encourage developments to include gathering spaces in the form of paseos, courtyards, and patios, and gardens similar to those found in traditional Spanish and Mission design. (Source: New Policy)
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3. COMMUNITY DESIGN
Public Review Draft Community Design Element, April 2023 | CD-33 CD-2.36: Design Theme for Streetscape. The City shall encourage a consistent design theme with the Spanish Colonial Revival architectural style for all public realm and streetscape features including but not limited to lighting, benches, wayfinding, and landscaping (Source: New Policy)
CD-2.37: Fencing. The City shall require that new or remodeled development to include fencing that is either wrought iron, split rail wood, or solid stucco wall. The inclusion of solid wall or pillar components is encouraged. Chain link fencing and vinyl fencing is prohibited. (Source: New Policy)
These are examples of acceptable
fencing types in the Mission Design
District.
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CD-34 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
Areas Outside the Design Districts
For multi-family and commercial developments outside the designated Design Districts, the overall thematic approach is based on traditional ranch style with an emphasis on the rural and agricultural roots of the area. These areas are intended to reflect Solvang’s early history in the Santa Ynez Valley. Furthermore, these areas are meant to be differentiated from both the Village Area and Mission Area so that each of those respective areas retains their unique identity.

General Design Parameters
Policies
CD-2.38: Architecture. The City shall encourage high-quality architecture in the style of rural California origins and ranch styles using minimal massing, low rooflines, façade articulation,
fenestration, and simple rooflines that reflect a human scale environment. (Source: New Policy)
CD-2.39: Colors. The City shall encourage the use of colors that blend with the surrounding buildings and natural setting. (Source:

Existing General Plan Design Guideline, Outside the Village 5, modified)
CD-2.40: Hillside Landscaping Design. The City shall require that hillside properties be designed to minimize formal landscape planting and hardscapes and locate them close to the residence, follow the natural topography, and preserve native trees, native plant and wildlife habitats, and migration corridors.
(Source: New Policy)
CD-2.41: Hillside Development. The City shall prohibit development on steep slopes and require additional review to ensure that the siting and design of structures preserve hillside areas. (Source:

New Policy)
CD-2.42: Screening of Parking and Storage Areas. The City shall encourage screening to be used to obscure the view of parking and/or storage areas, including trash enclosures, adjacent to a public street or pedestrian area. (Source: Existing General Plan Design Guideline, Outside the Village, Landscape/Hardscape 5, modified)
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4. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Public Review Draft Economic Development Element, April 2023 | ED-1 Economic Development
(ED)
A guiding principle in the General Plan is that Solvang’s resilient, diverse, and sustainable economy should support both existing and new locally-owned businesses, including community-supported tourism. This element includes policies to promote a vibrant business mix, supportive workforce development, 21st century communications infrastructure, regional collaboration to connect Solvang to the broader economy and enhance the fiscal health of the community. 4 335
ED-2 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
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4. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Public Review Draft Economic Development Element, April 2023 | ED-3 Economic Development
Tourism
Tourism is the largest sector in Solvang’s economy, accounting for one third of jobs and nearly two thirds of the City’s General Fund revenue. It is estimated that Solvang received more than 1.5 million visitors in 2019, about 8.2 percent of the County total of 18.8 million visitor. Solvang visitors spent about $132.7 million in the City for accommodations, retail goods and services, restaurants and entertainment. According to the Solvang Chamber of Commerce, about 85 percent of visitors come from California locations, with New York, Arizona, Washington, and Texas rounding out the top five origins for Solvang visitors.

Commercial Services
Retail establishments are the second largest employer in the City and serve multiple roles for the community. They serve as places of commerce, while simultaneously adding to the quality of life by providing goods and services to local residents, visitors, commuting workers, and other businesses. Retail stores generate sales tax revenue that helps support public services and local government operations.

Fiscal Health of the Community
Strong fiscal health is essential to providing a high level of public services and community amenities that contribute significantly to the quality of life in Solvang.

Tourism and local serving retail businesses both generate much of the needed tax base for Solvang to fund services for the community. However, it is important to have a diversified economy to add strength and resiliency during economic downturns.

Although Solvang has a relatively small resident population the median household income is higher than both the County and the State. There is a high percentage of home ownership and that generates property that supports the city as well.

Labor Force
Solvang had almost 3,100 residents employed in the labor force in 2019.

Residents in Solvang are most commonly employed in the tourism-related sector (arts, entertainment, recreation, retail, accommodation and food service), but 337
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about one third of residents are in jobs related to manufacturing, professional, scientific, and management and administrative services. Educational services, health care and social assistance also employ a significant number. Solvang generally has a lower unemployment rate than the countywide average, but this can change dramatically during cycles when tourism is down.

Attracting, developing, and retaining qualified workers is a challenge for many local businesses and the need for workforce housing, relevant education and training opportunities and transportation solutions that meet the needs of a widely dispersed workforce are paramount. These complex problems require collaboration among the development and business community, the City, educational institutions, and a variety of local and regional organizations who can pool expertise and resources to achieve innovative solutions.

Solvang’s Place in the Regional Economy
Solvang is part of the regional economy. Santa Barbara County and the Central Coast make up a noteworthy part of California’s tourism market and Solvang is a significant contributor. At the same time, Solvang benefits from other attractions in the area such as wine country, the Chumash Casino, and beach communities along the coast. Local residents are also employed in major work centers in the area such as Vandenberg Space Force Base and the business parks throughout Santa Barbara County. Local businesses have the opportunity to serve some of these broader regional markets beyond, or in addition to, local tourism and retail shoppers. Regional collaboration for economic development can be an effective means of leveraging the City’s limited resources to improve the prosperity and quality of life for local businesses and residents.

Economic Infrastructure
While Solvang provides a quaint old-world respite for travelers and residents, it must also be prepared to offer 21st century infrastructure and services such as high-speed broadband capacity and future-oriented transportation infrastructure. It is a competitive economic environment and retail, entertainment, and services are having to become ever more creative to stay at the forefront of the consumer market.
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4. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Public Review Draft Economic Development Element, April 2023 | ED-5 Goal ED-1:Community Supported Tourism
To provide a unique and attractive visitor experience that highlights the cultural heritage of Solvang and the surrounding region and offers world class amenities appropriate to the scale of the community. (Source: New Goal)
Policies
ED-1.1: City Beautification. The City shall invest in the beautification of the City and efficient and appropriate wayfinding signage to offer the best possible visitor experience.

ED-1.2: Destination Image and Amenities. The City shall encourage the development of modern services such as electric vehicle charging stations and high-speed internet availability. (Source:

New Policy) [MPSP]
ED-1.3: Visitor Facilities. The City shall support the development of facilities that would attract business travel and other mid-week trade, such as a conference center or other meeting facilities. (Source: New Policy) [MPSP, FB]
ED-1.4: Visitor Attractions. The City shall work with the Chamber of Commerce, other organizations, the business community, and cultural institutions to offer a wide range of visitor experiences such as evening 5activities, agri-tourism, museums, galleries, wine tasting and breweries. (Source: New Policy) [MPSP, JP] ED-1.5: Marketing. The City shall support the coordination of local and regional tourism marketing efforts and events to ensure efficient visitor attractions that reaches diverse markets. (Source: New Policy) [PI]
ED-1.6: Public Facilities. The City shall encourage comfortable and useful public facilities to support a positive visitor experience, including parking, restrooms, public gathering spaces, water fountains, and pedestrian spaces., etc. (Source: New Policy) [PI] 339
ED-6 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
Goal ED-2:Entrepreneurship and Jobs
To encourage a vibrant mix of businesses that supports the tourism economy while also providing essential services for residents and living wage job opportunities. (Source: New Goal)
ED-2.1: Business Start-ups. The City shall ensure that City permitting processes are conducive to business start-ups and expansions. (Source: New Policy) [RDR, JP]
ED-2.2: Business Development. The City shall work with the Chamber of Commerce, event coordinators, and other economic
development organizations to encourage locally owned
businesses and attractions that complement the unique and distinctive character of the Solvang community. (Source: New Policy) [RDR, MPSP]
ED-2.3: Business Attraction. The City shall work with other organizations like REACH and the Chamber of Commerce to encourage new businesses and visitor attractions that would enhance the existing business mix to benefit both local residents and visitors. (Source: New Policy) [RDR, MPSP] ED-2.4: Remote Work Opportunities. The City shall promote Solvang as a location for remote work opportunities by working with the hotels and other businesses to provide access to broadband and strategic workspaces around the city. (Source: New Policy) [PI]
ED-2.5: Light Industrial Jobs. The City shall consider opportunities for compatible industries with long-term viability in the City’s industrial zones within the Urban Growth Boundary and Sphere of Influence. (Source: New Policy) [RDR, MPSP]
Goal ED-3:Workforce Development and Support
To expand education and training opportunities for local workers as well as housing and transportation options that support employees of all income levels. (Source: New Goal)
Policies
ED-3.1: Workforce Training. The City shall encourage area colleges, community groups and training agencies to establish programs 340

4. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Public Review Draft Economic Development Element, April 2023 | ED-7 that would benefit the Solvang workforce. (Source: New Policy) [IGC]
ED-3.2: Workforce Housing. As part of the City’s overall housing goals, the City shall encourage housing designed and priced to be affordable to workers employed in Solvang, particularly in new mixed-use developments. (Source: New Policy) [RDR]
ED-3.3: Transportation. The City shall support efforts to improve local and regional transit options to increase worker accessibility to job opportunities in Solvang and the broader region. (Source:

New Policy) [IGC]
Goal ED-4:Regional Collaboration
To ensure that Solvang remains a vital member of the regional economy through collaboration with economic development and planning partner agencies. (Source: New Goal)
ED-4.1: Business Expansion. The City will coordinate with the Chamber of Commerce, event planners, vintner organizations and REACH to encourage businesses to expand in Solvang and not in the surrounding communities. (Source: New Policy) [IGC, JP] ED-4.2: Economic Infrastructure. The City shall support regional efforts to establish future-oriented infrastructure systems and human capital resources that can benefit Solvang, such as sustainable energy, improved broadband, expanded transportation options, workforce housing and workforce training. (Source: New Policy) [MPSP, IGC, JP]
Goal ED-5:Fiscal Health
To maintain a vibrant economy that provides a strong and resilient fiscal foundation for City Government. (Source: New Goal)
ED-5.1: Tourism Funding. The City shall continue to support local and regional tourism promotional funding efforts. (Source: New Policy) [FB, JP]
ED-5.2: Fiscal Management. The City shall recognize the important but volatile fiscal benefit of the tourism industry for Solvang by 341
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maintaining strong budget reserve policies to help weather economic downturns. (Source: New Policy) [FB]
ED-5.3: Local Financing Programs. The City shall support financing mechanisms such as assessment districts to facilitate business and property owner financing of new facilities to support economic development. (Source: New Policy) [MPSP, FB]
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5. MOBILITY
Public Review Draft Mobility Element, April 2023 | MOB-1 Mobility (MOB)
Solvang's transportation network and services provide mobility for residents, the workforce, and visitors, and support the movement of goods throughout the Planning Area through 2045. It’s easy to think of transportation as primarily the roadway network, serving vehicles; but this network also serves a wide range of public transit, including bicyclists, pedestrians, and buses. The network also includes tourist- and recreation-oriented travel modes.
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Public Review Draft Mobility Element, April 2023 | MOB-3 Introduction
The Mobility Element is designed to address all aspects of safely moving people and goods. This Element serves to meet the requirements of the Circulation Element as required for a General Plan. Mobility combines with land use patterns, infrastructure, and access to active transportation options, to influence the character of neighborhoods, the location of specific land uses, and the overall form of the city. Mobility for the city of Solvang will be centered on the creation of transportation methods that focus on strategies for reducing vehicle miles traveled (VMT), enhancing a multimodal transportation system, creating complete streets, and enhancing infrastructure for bicyclists and pedestrians as well as for transit riders.

The Mobility Element establishes goals and policies to improve the mobility of people and goods within and through the city of Solvang. Due to the unique character of Solvang as a tourism destination and as the “Danish Capital of America” this Element will place an important emphasis on improving accessibility for visitors to park and moving around Solvang. This Element also addresses the typical aspects of a transportation network including parking, access, and safety. The goals, policies, and implementation programs in the Mobility Element are consistent and interdependent with the other elements of the General Plan.

Roadway and Functional
Classifications
Solvang’s roadway network can be divided into four levels. CalTrans uses five major levels of roadway classification, four of which are represented in Solvang. • State Highways. Caltrans State Route 246 (SR 246) is the major eastwest route through Solvang. SR 246 is classified as a State Highway at the east and west ends of the city and is classified as a Primary Arterial within the city limits.
• Arterials. Primary arterials serve major activity centers and neighboring areas; they are highest traffic volume corridors and provide a continuous network to facilitate both local and regional travel. Secondary arterials provide access from collectors and local roads to the primary arterial network and facilitate travel for moderate length trips. Mission Drive (SR 246) is the major east-west route through the city that has two travel 345
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lanes with intermittent center turn lanes. Mission Drive serves as the city’s main street where many local businesses, restaurants, and hotels are located. Pedestrians and cyclists are common Mission Drive users within Solvang. Alisal Road is one of the main north-south arterials in Solvang, classified as a Primary Arterial south of Mission Drive, and as a Secondary Arterial north of Mission Drive. South of Solvang, Alisal Road terminates to the southwest near US 101. Alamo Pintado Road, at the east end of Solvang, is a two-lane north-south Primary Arterial that starts in Solvang at Mission Drive and terminates at SR 154 in Los Olivos and Buellton at US 101.
• Collectors. Major and minor collectors provide local access to the overall roadway network, channeling traffic from local roadways into the arterial network, Chalk Hill Road, Laurel Avenue, Oak Street, Viborg Road, and Fjord Drive are all examples of Collectors in Solvang. Chalk Hill Road is a two-lane local road that connects to Ballard Canyon Road. Ballard Canyon Road provides a connection from SR 246 west of Solvang to the north at SR 154 in Los Olivos.
• Local Roads. Local roads provide direct access to neighboring land and primarily facilitate local travel to and through residential neighborhoods Examples of local roads include Sky Mesa Drive, Old Mission Drive, Maple Avenue, and Elm Avenue.

Senate Bill 743
One notable piece of legislation impacting roadway policy is SB 743 (2013). As part of an effort to capture the negative externalities of automobile usage more accurately, SB 743 revised how transportation impacts are identified as part of the California Environmental Quality Act from level of service (LOS) to vehicle miles traveled (VMT).
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5. MOBILITY
Public Review Draft Mobility Element, April 2023 | MOB-5 Figure 1: Solvang Roadway Functional Classifications
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Goal MOB-1:

To provide a street network to move people and goods safely and efficiently. (Source: Existing General Plan, Goal 1)
Policies
MOB-1.1: Transportation Funding. The City shall identify roadway needs and identify and evaluate potential revenue sources for financing roadway system development and improvement
projects and pursue viable revenue sources to meet the roadway system funding needs. This includes coordinating with SBCAG to pursue competitive Federal/State grant funding
opportunities. (Source: Existing General Plan, Policy 1.1 C & 1.1D) [MPSP, PSR, IGC]
MOB-1.2: Transportation System Capacity. The City shall use its discretionary authority over land use development to ensure that development levels do not exceed the capacity of the City’s transportation systems. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action

1.1.E) [RDR]
MOB-1.3: Level of Service. The City shall maintain a minimum level of service D at all intersections during normal peak hours and level of service E during “average tourist season peak hours” to ensure that traffic delays are kept to a minimum. (Source:

Existing General Plan, Policy 1.1) [MPSP]
MOB-1.4: VMT Thresholds. The City shall establish VMT thresholds for determining transportation impacts for CEQA as well as
screening criteria for CEQA streamlining. (Source: New Policy) [MPSP]
MOB-1.5: New Development Access. The City shall require new development to be served by roads of adequate capacity and design standards to provide reasonable access in accordance with City standards. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 1.1.B) [RDR]
MOB-1.6: Rights-of-way Preservation. The City shall reserve and protect adequate rights-of-way to accommodate future roadway
widening projects. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 1.1.D) [MPSP]
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5. MOBILITY
Public Review Draft Mobility Element, April 2023 | MOB-7 MOB-1.7: Mission Drive Improvement. The City shall coordinate with the California Department of Transportation to make modifications to Mission Drive (SR 246) to improve traffic flow. (Source:

Existing General Plan, Action 1.1.G) [IGC]
MOB-1.8: Residential Area Parking and Traffic Control. The City shall preserve the quality of residential neighborhoods by
discouraging tourism related parking by providing adequate Village Center parking, enforcing speed limits, and prohibiting truck and bus traffic in these areas. (Source: Existing General Plan, Policy 1.2, Actions 1.2B and 4.2.D, modified) [MPSP, SO] MOB-1.9: Safe Speeds. The City shall enforce speed limits and consider lower posted speeds as warranted. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 1.2.A, modified) [SO]
MOB-1.10: Residential Traffic Diversion. The City shall maintain minimum levels of service on city streets in order to avoid diversion of through traffic into residential neighborhoods. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 1.2.C, modified) [SO]
MOB-1.11: Regional Coordination for Roadway Management. The City shall coordinate with SBCAG, the City of Buellton, the Chumash Tribe, Santa Barbara County, the California Department of Transportation, and other jurisdictions in the planning and funding of regional transportation alternatives. Mission Drive (SR 246) shall not be widened to four lanes through the Village Area instead, emphasis shall be placed on developing regional transportation alternatives. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 1.1.H, modified) [IGC]
MOB-1.12: Air Quality Impact Reduction. The City shall work to reduce the air quality impacts of motor vehicle use by reducing traffic congestion and promoting efforts to reduce fossil fuel-based motor vehicle use, including support for a citywide network of all electric charging station types (e.g., Level 1, Level II, Tesla, Mega-charging). (Source: Existing General Plan, Policy 5.3, modified) [MPSP, PI]
MOB-1.13: Future Automotive Technology. The City shall work with Caltrans and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that City streets are designed and striped to safely accommodate
connected and autonomous vehicles. (Source: New Policy) [IGC] 349
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MOB-1.14: Tribal Coordination on Circulation. The City shall coordinate with the Chumash Tribe on alternative traffic and circulation mitigation solutions for future projects funded or managed by the Tribe in the City. (Source: New Policy) [IGC]
MOB-1.15: Roadway Capacity. The City shall require roads to be of adequate width for use in times of emergency. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 2.5.E) [RDR]
Pedestrian and Bicycle
Network
Over the last decade, walking to work has increased within Solvang from 2 percent of commuters in 2014 to 15 percent in 2018. In the last six years of available data, the mode share of commuters walking increased by 15 percent.

As walking is important in the city of Solvang, the City uses pedestrian wayfinding in the downtown to direct people to common locations. Additionally, many people use bicycles for recreation or visiting local business.

The 2015 Santa Barbara County Association of Governments Regional Active Transportation Plan incorporates a variety of goals to enhance mobility, increase connectivity, promote equity for all users in all communities and improve safety and public health. The plan identified a list of projects to realize these goals. The City of Solvang identified 10 projects that include sidewalk infill and repair, pedestrian bridges, bicycle facility improvements and more. The Solvang Circulation Element 2008 identified support for expanding the pedestrian and bicycle network to promote safe alternatives to driving alone.

In 2017, the Santa Ynez Valley Traffic Circulation & Safety Study was conducted by the SBCAG which provided an analysis of pedestrian and bicycle facilities and volumes. The analysis identified an increase in commuters walking to work in the city of Solvang, as well as bicycles being a form of transportation for recreational use by those living, working, and visiting Solvang.

As bicycles are primarily used for recreation in the area, the 2019 Santa Ynez Bicycle Master Plan was developed as a joint effort among the City of Solvang, the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, SBCAG, the County of Santa Barbara and the City of Buellton to provide a cohesive vision for recreational and utilitarian bicycle travel in the Santa Ynez Valley. The Bicycle Master Plan also identifies project and responsibilities to improve the bicycle mobility within the city of Solvang, as well as provide connections to existing bicycle networks with other jurisdictions.
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5. MOBILITY
Public Review Draft Mobility Element, April 2023 | MOB-9 In 2020, the Santa Ynez River Trail Alignment Study identified multimodal pedestrian trails to connect Solvang and Buellton. This study identified in the 2019 Santa Ynez Valley Bicycle Master Plan to address the lack of infrastructure and unsafe conditions for active transportation that currently exist to connect residential, recreational, and commercial destinations. A goal for this study is to connect the River View Park in Buellton with Fjord Drive in Solvang, with other termini possible.

With bicycling being a key element in the SBCAG Active Transportation Plan, the Santa Ynez Valley Transit buses operate a route through Solvang and are equipped with bicycle racks which allow transit riders to provide their own last mile transportation by bicycle. Additionally, as recreational bicycling is popular in the region, there are a variety of regional and local routes for bicyclists to explore. Alamo Pintado Road from Solvang to Los Olivos currently has dedicated bike lanes which make up the Dan Henry Bike Route. In 2018, Solvang installed bike lanes on Chalk Hill Road within the city limits to serve students traveling to Solvang Elementary School. A separated two-way bicycle path exists along SR 246 to the east of Solvang, from the Alamo Pintado Creek bridge to Refugio Road. A section of Alisal Road from Elverhoy Way to Juniper Avenue has bicycle lanes in both directions.

Bikeways are classified by Caltrans as Class I, Class II, Class III, and Class IV, as described below.

Class I Bikeway. Class I Bikeway (Bike Path) is a completely separated right-ofway designated for the exclusive use of bicycles and pedestrians, with crossflows by motorists minimized. City of Solvang bicycle facilities with a Class I classification include SR-246/Mission Drive (north side) between Alamo Pintado Road and Refugio Road
Class II Bikeway. Class II Bikeway (Bike Lane) provide a restricted right-of-way designated for the exclusive or semi-exclusive use of bicycles with through travel by motor vehicles or pedestrians prohibited, but with vehicle parking and crossflows by pedestrians and motorist. Regional facilities and their classifications within Solvang include Alamo Pintado Road from Solvang to Los Olivos (Dan Henry Bike Route)
Class III Bikeway. Class III Bikeway (Bike Route) provide a right-of-way on-street or off-street, designated by signs or permanent markings and shared with pedestrians and motorists. A class III bikeway is planned along Viborg Road.

Class IV Bikeway. Class IV Cycle Tracks or Separated Bikeways promote active transportation and provide a right-of-way designated exclusively for bicycle travel adjacent to a roadway and which are protected from vehicular traffic. No class IV bikeways currently exist in or are planned for Solvang. 351
MOB-10 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
Figure 2: City maintained Pedestrian Facilities
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5. MOBILITY
Public Review Draft Mobility Element, April 2023 | MOB-11 Figure 3. Existing Class I, Class II, Class III facilities in the Santa Ynez Valley Source: Santa Ynez Valley Bicycle Master Plan
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Goal MOB-2:

To promote safe alternatives to motorized transportation that meet the needs of all city residents. (Source: Existing General Plan, Goal 3) Policies
MOB-2.1: Bicycle Master Plan. The City shall adopt a master plan of bikeways on public property and shall develop bikeways as needed and feasible. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 3.1.A, modified) [MPSP]
MOB-2.2: Bicycle and Pedestrian Routes on New Roadways. The City shall incorporate bicycle routes or trails into the design of new or expanded roadways when feasible. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 3.1.B) [RDR, SO]
MOB-2.3: Safe Bikeway System. The City shall allocate resources to maintain a safe bikeway system by ensuring pavement is of good quality, mode separation is implemented where feasible, and signs and markings are maintained. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 3.1.C) [FB, SO]
MOB-2.4: Pedestrian Facilities. The City shall provide a system of sidewalks or pathways that provides a safe environment for pedestrians. (Source: Existing General Plan, Policy 3.2) [SO] MOB-2.5: New Pedestrian Access. The City shall require new development to provide adequate pedestrian access. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 3.2.A, modified) [RDR]
MOB-2.6: Wheelchair Ramps. The City shall require the installation of wheelchair ramps on all new sidewalks. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 3.2.B) [RDR, SO]
MOB-2.7: New Facilities in Existing Neighborhoods. The City shall encourage the installation of sidewalks, pedestrian paths, bikeways, and wheelchair ramps in existing neighborhoods, where appropriate and support Safe Routes to Schools funding. (Source: Existing General Plan, Actions 3.2.C and 3.2.D, modified) [RDR, FB, SO]
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Public Review Draft Mobility Element, April 2023 | MOB-13 Parking
Solvang residents and visitors generally want to have parking readily available on their neighborhood streets and in commercial centers. On-street parking is provided on most roadways in both residential and commercial areas of the city.

Solvang has a variety of parking options throughout the city, including on and offstreet parking. On-street parking is managed by the city of Solvang. Off-street parking consists of four public parking lots, overseen by the City.

The City owns and maintains public parking facilities in the village area. The City of Solvang Maintenance Division of the Public Works Department is responsible for the operation and maintenance of many of the public improvements and facilities, including parking lots.

Policies in this section support the provision and management of parking, recognizing that parking provision should be balanced with other City objectives such as encouraging transit uses, bicycling, and walking, as well as reduction in vehicle emissions. The following goals and policies address parking availability, management, and siting.

Goal MOB-3:

To provide an adequate supply of public parking to meet the needs of residents and visitors to the city. (Source: Existing General Plan, Goal 4) MOB-3.1: Monitor Parking Needs. The City shall continue to monitor the parking situation in the downtown area and consider the creation of programs limiting parking if needs arise. This may include revising existing standards, programs, or fees, the implementation of paid parking, the implementation of timed parking, or other programs to limit long-term parking, increase parking capacity, and encourage economic activity. (Source:

Downtown Solvang Parking Study) [MPSP, PSR]
MOB-3.2: Parking Construction Coordination. The City shall work cooperatively with developers and the business community to identify funding mechanisms for the construction of future public parking facilities or maximize use of current underutilized private parking facilities. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action

4.1.C) [JP]
MOB-3.3: Alternative Parking Measures. The City shall consider all parking alternatives such as valet parking, the construction of a 355
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parking structure, remote parking lots, or engaging in a public private partnership as alternative parking measures to address demand. (Source: Downtown Solvang Parking Study) [MPSP] MOB-3.4: Parking for New Development. The City shall require new or expanded development to provide adequate off-street parking or offer the financial means for parking to be provided. (Source:

Existing General Plan, Policy 4.1, modified) [RDR]
MOB-3.5: Micro-Mobility Parking. The City shall review and consider he use of alternative transportation modes by providing adequate parking for small vehicles such as zero emission vehicles, scooters, and bicycles. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action

4.3.A, modified) [SO]
MOB-3.6: Increase Turnover of Prime On-street Parking Spaces. The City shall consider parking time limits in the most in-demand parking areas to increase turnover of parking spaces, increase parking opportunities to active shoppers, and reduce instances of employees parking in prime downtown parking. (Source:

Downtown Solvang Parking Study) [MPSP, SO]
Complete Streets
The City has supported a balanced circulation system that provides adequate capacity to support the travel demands of existing and future development. This Complete Streets section of the Mobility Element provides a holistic and balanced approach to standards that provide complete streets that are safe, comfortable, and convenient for all users which include pedestrians, cyclists, motorist, and transit riders of all ages and abilities.

The California Complete Streets Act of 2008, as well as recent changes in CEQA and congestion management law, highlight a need for mobility elements to have a broader focus that emphasize other travel modes beyond driving personal vehicles. It requires jurisdictions to provide local streets with facilities that meet the needs of all transportation system users (i.e., pedestrians, bicyclists, persons with disabilities, motorists, movers of commercial goods, users and operators of public transportation, seniors, youth, and families).

Goal MOB-4:

To provide a safe network of streets that reduce automobile dependence without sacrificing mobility are safe for all users. (Source: New Goal) 356

5. MOBILITY
Public Review Draft Mobility Element, April 2023 | MOB-15 MOB-4.1: Complete Streets. The City shall create guidelines to facilitate the installation of non-automobile serving infrastructure along its streets, including sidewalks and bike trails. (Source: New Policy) [MPSP]
MOB-4.2: Street Closures. The City shall analyze the potential for streets to be closed to vehicular traffic or otherwise modified to improve travel routes available to pedestrians and bicyclists. (Source:

New Policy) [PSR]
MOB-4.3: Safe Streets. The City shall pursue and enact traffic calming measures as appropriate to meet the policy objectives, as conditions warrant. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 1.2.E) [SO]
MOB-4.4: Curbside Management. The City shall analyze access to highuse curb space to facilitate curbside pick-up and drop-off for transportation network and delivery companies without unduly obstructing access for pedestrians and bicyclists. (Source: New Policy) [PSR]
MOB-4.5: E-Scooters. The City shall study the implementation micromobility transportation alternatives. (Source: New Policy) [SO] 357
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Transportation Demand/
System Management
The existing roadway network represents vast quantities of investment, and efficient maintenance and upkeep of the roadway network is essential to the vitality of the city of Solvang. Transportation demand management (TDM) programs promote alternatives to single occupant vehicles. Promotion of active transportation (walking and bicycling) and transit, carpool and vanpool, use of tolling, and certain intelligent transportation system (ITS) interventions can be considered TDM. Transportation system management (TSM) programs increase existing roadway efficiency without the construction of new roadway capacity.

TSM programs can range from operational improvements, such as signal timing management, park-and-ride lots, and pavement management and fix-it-first programs, to ITS improvements.

Goal MOB-5:

To reduce traffic congestion and vehicle trips through more efficient infrastructure and support for trip reduction programs. (Source: Existing General Plan, Goal 5.3)
MOB-5.1: VMT Management. The City shall work with SBCAG and the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution District to identify trip and VMT reduction opportunities. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 5.2.C) [IGC]
MOB-5.2: TDM. The City shall encourage employers to promote carpooling, public transportation, and allow telecommuting. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 5.1.C) [JP]
MOB-5.3: Park-and-Ride Lots. The City shall work with the SBCAG to plan park and ride lots at suitable locations serving long distance and local commuters. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 5.3.B) [IGC]
MOB-5.4: TSM. The City shall explore options for telematics-based parking and route management systems to smooth traffic flow. (Source: New Policy) [PSR]
MOB-5.5: Supporting ITS Infrastructure. The City shall assess the suitability and adequacy of broadband infrastructure in the city 358

5. MOBILITY
Public Review Draft Mobility Element, April 2023 | MOB-17 to support future ITS implementation and capacity for telework within the City. (Source: New Policy) [PSR]
Transit
The city of Solvang is a small community with rural surroundings, Solvang is a destination of tourism both because of its unique community character and proximity to wineries and other agriculture-based tourism. The primary transit service for the city of Solvang is Santa Ynez Valley Transit, or SYVT.

Transit Services and Facilities
The transit system that provides transit service to Solvang is made up of bus services provided by Santa Ynez Valley Transit (SYVT), City of Lompoc Transit (COLT), and Clean Air Express (CAE). Transit routes serving the city of Solvang are as follows:
• SYVT Express Route – Route runs between Buellton, Solvang, and Santa Ynez.
• SYVT Los Olivos Loop – The Los Olivos Loop runs between Solvang, Santa Ynez, and Los Olivos.
• COLT Wine County Express – The Wine County Express runs between Lompoc, Buellton, and Solvang.
• CAE Santa Ynez Valley to Goleta – Route runs from Goleta to Buellton and Solvang. The route serves residents of the Valley commuting to their jobs in Goleta.
• CAE Santa Ynez Valley to Santa Barbara – Route runs from Santa Barbara to Buellton. The route serves residents of the Valley commuting to their jobs in Santa Barbara.
• SMART Breeze 200 Bus – Route runs from Santa Maria to Buellton and Solvang.
• SYVT – provides curb-to-curb dial-a-ride service for seniors and ADA certified patrons.

Goal MOB-6:

To participate in a public transportation system that is safe, convenient, efficient and meets the identified need of the Solvang community. (Source: Existing General Plan, Goal 2)
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MOB-6.1: Transit Service Use and Expansion. The City shall support the use of the public transportation system as well as the expansion of transit operations when demand levels are sufficient to warrant increased service. (Source: Existing General Plan, Actions 2.1.A and 5.1.B, modified) [IGC]
MOB-6.2: Regional Transit Network. The City shall work with SBCAG and other nearby cities and jurisdictions to ensure that the regional transit network offers access for those with limited mobility options. (Source: New Policy) [IGC]
MOB-6.3: Transportation Access for Mobility Impaired. The City shall support the public transportation system to accommodate the mobility needs of residents, especially of transit dependent persons such as the elderly and disabled. (Source: Existing General Plan, Policy 2.1) [IGC]
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6. PUBLIC FACILITIES, SERVICES, AND INFRASTRUCTURE
Public Review Draft Public Facilities and Services Element, April 2023 | PFS-1 Public Facilities, Services,
and Infrastructure (PFS)
Ensuring provision of public facilities and services to its residents is one of the core responsibilities of a city. Access to adequate public facilities and services contribute the quality of life for both individuals and groups in the community. This element presents an overview of public facilities and community services within the city limits. It addresses water, wastewater, stormwater, solid waste and recycling, emergency response, community health, parks and recreation, education, medical services 6 361
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6. PUBLIC FACILITIES, SERVICES, AND INFRASTRUCTURE
Public Review Draft Public Facilities and Services Element, April 2023 | PFS-3 Water Supply
The Utilities Department operates and maintains the City's water supply and distribution facilities and provides potable water for the community. Three water storage tanks, six production water wells, two pump stations, chlorination, and ammonia facilities, and 41 miles of water line are located throughout the city.

Water supply is provided by a combination of State water, upland wells, river wells, and the Santa Ynez River Water Conservation District.

The Department of Water Resources (DWR) operates the State Water Project, of which the City holds entitlement to 1,500 acre-feet per year (AFY) of State Water.

However, based on the rainfall, Sierra snowpack, and State reservoir levels each year the percentage allocation of State Water varies. In recent years the allocation of State Water has varied from five percent (during drought) to as much as 85 percent.

The City is in process of updating the Water System Master Plan. The updated master plan will address increased supply needs to provide additional housing and development, climate change, and drought conditions. In addition, Water Wise in Santa Barbara County is a network of water providers with educational outreach on how to reduce water consumption and provides additional guidance for community water conservation.

Goal PFS-1:

To maintain an adequate level of service in the City's water system to meet the needs of existing and future residents, businesses, and new development. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal 2.2, modified) Policies
PFS-1.1: Water Supply Sources. The City shall continue to maintain a water supply program consisting of multiple sources of water, water conservation and groundwater management to
accommodate projected water demand and provide for reliable water supply. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy 2.2, modified) [MPSP]
PFS-1.2: Adequate Fire Flows. The City shall insure the provision of water supply, storage, and adequately sized pipelines to provide fire flows to meet the recommendations of the Fire Chief, City 363
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Engineer, and Utilities Director. (Source: Existing General Plan Action 2.2F, modified) [MPSP, FB]
PFS-1.3: Water Supply and Infrastructure. The City shall ensure there is adequate water supply and infrastructure in place or that will be available in place and prior to approving any new development.

The City will consider existing and future water supply and demand prior to project approval. (Source: New Policy) [MPSP, FB]
PFS-1.4: Water Line Maintenance. The City shall systematically replace or repair leaking and deteriorated water lines. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 2.2.E) [MPSP]
PFS-1.5: Cost of New Infrastructure. The City shall require that costs of improvements to the water distribution system that are
necessary for new developments are financed by the property owner and/or developer. (Source: New Policy) [RDR]
PFS-1.6: Water Efficient Landscaping. The City shall require new development to comply with the State water efficient
landscaping requirements. (Source: New Policy) [RDR]
Wastewater
The City operates the sewer collection system under a Permit issued by the Regional Water Quality Control Board. The City of Solvang sewer collection system consists of approximately 31 miles of gravity sewer mains, 645 manholes, 85 cleanouts, and 0.56 miles of force mains. The Wastewater Division also operates and maintains two sewer lift (pumping) stations. The Wastewater Division maintains and periodically updates the Sewer System Management Plan to ensure smooth operation of the sewer collection system.

Under a Waste Discharge Permit issued by the Regional Water Quality Control Board, the City of Solvang operates a Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR) type Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) with a design capacity of 1.5 million gallons per day (MGD). The WWTP currently receives and treats wastewater from the City of Solvang and the Santa Ynez Community Services District (SYCSD) which serves the town of Santa Ynez. The SYCSD owns 0.30 MGD capacity in the Solvang WWTP. The Plant provides full secondary treatment of the wastewater received and discharges treated wastewater to percolation ponds located adjacent to the Plant. The City is working on Wastewater 364

6. PUBLIC FACILITIES, SERVICES, AND INFRASTRUCTURE
Public Review Draft Public Facilities and Services Element, April 2023 | PFS-5 Treatment Plant Upgrade Project to meet future demand and anticipated regulations.

Goal PFS-2:

To operate and maintain the City’s sanitary sewer system and wastewater treatment plant facilities to provide adequate capacity for existing residents, businesses, and future development. (Source: New Goal).

Policies
PFS-2.1: Wastewater System Capacity. The City shall continue to expand water treatment, distribution, and storage facility systems for potable and non-potable systems as necessary to
accommodate the needs of existing and planned development. (Source: Existing General Plan Action 2.2.B) [MPSP]
PFS-2.2: Cost of New Infrastructure. The City shall require that costs of improvements to the wastewater and water reclamation system that are necessary for new development are financed by the property owner or developer. (Source: New Policy) [RDR] PFS-2.3: Pursue Infrastructure Funding. The City will pursue available funding from county, state and federal grants. (Source: New Policy) [FP]
PFS-2.4: Protect Groundwater Quality. The City shall preserve and protect groundwater quality through the implementation of best practices and innovative methods for modern wastewater
disposal. (Source: New Policy) [MPSP]
Solid Waste and Recycling
The City of Solvang contracts with a third-party company to provide solid waste collection services to its residents. All municipal solid waste is transferred to the Tajiguas Landfill of Santa Barbara County located at 14470 Calle Real Rd. in Santa Barbara, CA. This landfill can process up to 1,500 tons of trash per day. In July 2021, the Resource Recovery Center at the Tajiguas Landfill opened. This new facility separates organics from waste and is in the testing phases of being a High Diversion Organic Waste Processing Facility. All recycled and green waste material from Solvang is transferred to a third-party material recovery facility. 365
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Goal PFS-3:

To reduce solid waste entering local landfills through waste management and recycling. (Source: New Goal)
Policies
PFS-3.1: Waste Management. The City shall continue to coordinate with the contractor to improve its solid waste management system through emphasis on waste prevention, reuse, recycling, composting, and appropriate disposal. (Source: New Policy) [MPSP]
PFS-3.2: Reduce Municipal Solid Waste. The City shall reduce municipal solid waste generation by employing a wide range of innovative techniques, including electronic communications to reduce paper usage and buying products with less packaging or in bulk, where feasible. (Source: New Policy) [MPSP]
PFS-3.3: Recycling Collection. The City shall require all new projects, , to provide sufficient and accessible space for the storage and collection of recyclable materials and organic waste separate in addition to, space for refuse storage and collection. (Source:

New Policy) [RDR]
Law Enforcement, Fire
Protection, and Emergency
Services
Law Enforcement
The City of Solvang contracts with the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office for law enforcement services. The Solvang Sheriff Substation is located at 1745 Mission Drive in Solvang. The City has one full-time deputy serving the city.

Fire Protection
Solvang is in the Santa Barbara County Fire District (SBCFD), which provides fire protection services. Station No. 30 is located in the City limits on Second street and has two fire trucks. The County fire Administration office is located on Oak Street. The SBCFD serves an area covering 2,289 square miles including the cities of Goleta, Buellton, and Solvang. Fire protection for other land surrounding 366

6. PUBLIC FACILITIES, SERVICES, AND INFRASTRUCTURE
Public Review Draft Public Facilities and Services Element, April 2023 | PFS-7 the city is provided by Cal Fire and the US Forest Service through mutual aid agreements with Santa Barbara County.

Emergency Services
The EMS Division of the Santa Barbara County Fire District is responsible for the oversight and coordination of all emergency medical service-related functions of the District. American Medical Response (AMR), located at 240 State Route 246, provides first response emergency medical services.

For goals and policies relating to public health emergencies, please refer to Section SAF-12 (Public Health Emergencies) in the Safety Element.

Goal PFS-4:

To coordinate with law enforcement, fire protection, and emergency service providers to ensure a safe community and protect city residents and property. (Source: Existing Goal 5.2, modified)
Policies
PFS-4.1: Police Staffing. The City shall coordinate with the county to ensure adequate staffing and facilities to achieve desired levels of public safety. (Source: New Policy) [FB, IGC]
PFS-4.2: Community Policing Strategies. The City shall promote community policing strategies that support community
partnerships and problem-solving techniques that build public trust and proactively address public safety issues. (Source: New Policy) [IGC]
PFS-4.3: School Security and Safety. The City shall encourage local law enforcement to collaborate with the Solvang School District to study and implement measures that enhance the security of schools and the safety of students, teachers, and
administrators. (Source: New Policy) [IGC]
PFS-4.4: Tourist and Visitor Safety. The City shall coordinate with the Chamber of Commerce, hotels, and downtown business to train employees about crime prevention. (Source: New Policy) [JP] PFS-4.5: Mutual Aid Agreements. The City shall maintain mutual aid agreements among fire protection and emergency service
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providers to ensure residents and property are adequately served and to facilitate the efficient use of available resources. (Source: Existing General Plan Action 5.2C) [IGC]
PFS-4.6: Emergency Medical Services. The City shall coordinate emergency medical services between agencies serving the city. (Source: New Policy) [IGC]
Goal PFS-5:

The City shall work to reduce fire risk to structures, property, and residents. (Existing General Plan Goal 5.3, modified).
 For goals and policies relating to fire hazard risks and areas, please refer to Sections SAF-5and SAF-6 (Fire Hazards) in the Safety Element.

PFS-5.1: Fire Safety Information. The City shall coordinate with County Fire Department to inform homeowners of the risk of fire and ways to prevent loss, including information about methods for fire protection at the urban/wildland interface. (Source: Existing General Plan Action 5.3A, modified) [PI]
PFS-5.2: Defensible Space. The City shall coordinate with County Fire Department to work with residents and businesses to provide “defensible space” around structures to provide fire fighters with sufficient room to defend structures and maneuver. (Source:

Existing General Plan Actions 5.3B, 5.3D, modified) [RDR, PI] PFS-5.3: Fire Flows. The City shall ensure that adequate peak load water fire-flows are maintained throughout the city and shall regularly monitor fire-flows to ensure adequacy. (Source: Existing General Plan Action 5.3C) [MPSP, SO]
Community Health
Healthcare providers within the city of Solvang include the Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital, urgent care facilities, and numerous medical providers. The Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital is located at 2050 Viborg Road in Solvang, The hospital includes 24/7 emergency services as well as a full range of medical care.
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6. PUBLIC FACILITIES, SERVICES, AND INFRASTRUCTURE
Public Review Draft Public Facilities and Services Element, April 2023 | PFS-9 
For goals and policies relating to public health emergencies, please refer to Section SAF-12 (Public Health Emergencies) in the Safety Element.

Goal PFS-6:

Improve the health and quality of life for all Solvang residents. (Source:

New Goal)
Policies
PFS-6.1: Collaboration for Improved Health. The City shall collaborate with local health officials, planners, nonprofit organizations, businesses, schools, hospitals, local health clinics, and community groups to improve community health. (Source: New Policy, City staff) [IGC]
PFS-6.2: Health in All Policies. The City shall prioritize the overall health of Solvang residents in its strategies, programs, daily operations, and practices. (Source: New Policy) [MPSP/CSO].

PFS-6.3: Address Health Inequities. The City shall address health inequities in Solvang by striving to remove barriers to healthy living, avoiding disproportionate exposure to unhealthy living environments, and providing a high quality of life for all residents, regardless of income, age, or ethnicity. (Source: New Policy) [RDR/MPSP].

Parks and Recreation
The City of Solvang operates approximately 205 acres of parkland, recreational areas, and city facilities that function as community gathering places. These facilities are shown on Figure 8-3 and described below. Designated open space areas and associated policies and programs are covered in the Environment and Sustainability Element.
• Hans Christian Andersen Park is a 51.29-acre park located at 633 Chalk Hill Road in the northeast portion of the city. The park stretches from Fredensborg Canyon Road north of Chalk Hill Road to SR 246 near Nykobing. The Park offers a unique interaction with the natural landscape through distinct topography and riparian habitat of Adobe 369
PFS-10 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
Creek consisting of oak woodland and coastal scrub communities.

Approximately 48 percent of the city is within half a mile walking radius from Hans Christian Andersen Park.
• Solvang Park is a 0.58-acre park located on Mission Drive. and serves as a central gathering place.
• Sunny Fields Park is a 6.68-acre park located at 900 Alamo Pintado Road.
• Creekside Place Park is a 6.76-acre open space area located along Rebild Drive.
• Alisal Commons Park is a 1.01-acre open space area located at the north end of Glen Way, near Alisal Road, just north of the Alisal Golf Course.

The City of Solvang provides fun, safe, exciting, and entertaining program for all ages.

The city has two natural open space parcels. The first is a 2.67-acre parcel located south of SR 246 near Nykobing, opposite the southern tip of Hans Christian Andersen Park. The second is a 9.00-acre parcel behind the homes along Aarhus Drive, east of Oster Sted Court. This area is owned by the Nyborg Estates Homeowners Association and contains a steep canyon with some walking trails. Figure 8-1 shows open space parcels within the Planning Area.

Although only a few parcels are designated as open space by the General Plan, some residential subdivisions within the Planning Area incorporate open space areas, particularly between neighborhoods.

For goals and policies relating to open space and conservation, please refer to Section ENV-1 and ENV-2 (Open Space and Conservation) in the Environment and Sustainability Element.

Recreation Facilities
The Solvang Veterans’ Memorial Building community facility owned by the City of Solvang located at 1745 Mission Drive. A local landmark built in 1937 and the Legion Wing added in 1963, the Veterans’ Memorial Building is utilized for community events.

Goal PFS-7:
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6. PUBLIC FACILITIES, SERVICES, AND INFRASTRUCTURE
Public Review Draft Public Facilities and Services Element, April 2023 | PFS-11 To provide and maintain park facilities with a range of recreational opportunities for City residents of all ages and abilities. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal 2, modified)
Policies
PFS-7.1: Recreation Services. The City shall continue to provide and facilitate quality recreational services, including programs, classes, special events, and facilities to all members of the community in a courteous and efficient manner. (Source:

Existing General Plan Policy 1.1, modified) [SO]
PFS-7.2: Parks and Recreation System. The City shall continue to operate and maintain a parks and recreation system which provides important environmental, social, personal and economic
benefits to meet the needs of the City’s residents. (Source:

Existing General Plan Goal 1, modified) [MPSP, SO]
PFS-7.3: Park Facility Use. The City shall continue to maximize the use of each park facility by creatively adapting the recreation opportunities available, as community needs change and
evolve. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy 2.1) [SO] PFS-7.4: Facility Master Plans. The City shall create Master Plans for each park or recreation facility and periodically review and update the plans and estimate implementation costs to respond to changing needs. (Source: Existing General Plan Action 2.2.1A, modified) [MPSP]
PFS-7.5: Neighborhood Impacts. When preparing new, or updating existing, park and facility plans, the City shall consider the effects on surrounding neighborhoods for issues such as noise, light and glare, and traffic and parking in order to minimize impacts on neighborhood quality of life. (Source: Existing General Plan Action 2.1.B) MPSP]
PFS-7.6: Intergovernmental Coordination. The City shall maintain open communication with the State, the County, the City of Buellton, local organizations and the school districts to establish mutual goals and timelines for achieving those goals. (Source: Existing General Plan Action 2.2.C) [IGC]
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PFS-12 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
PFS-7.7: Park Safety. The City shall continue to maintain and improve safety in existing parks and design park improvements to facilitate security and policing. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy 2.3, modified) [[SO]
PFS-7.8: Park Patrols. The City shall coordinate with the law enforcement to provide mobile patrols of parks and recreation events. (Source: Existing General Plan Action 2.3.A, modified) [IGC] PFS-7.9: Neighborhood Watch. The City shall coordinate with neighborhood watch programs to provide added security in park areas. (Source: Existing General Plan Action 2.3.B) [SO] PFS-7.10: Public Awareness. The City shall increase resident awareness of available park and recreational facilities and opportunities by periodically providing public information and activity guides and maintaining cooperative relationships with local media outlets and local organizations. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy 3.2 and Actions 3.2.A and 3.2.B, modified) [PI]
PFS-7.11: Undeveloped Natural Areas. The City shall conserve and enhance the publicly owned undeveloped natural areas of Adobe Creek and Alamo Pintado Creek for the passive use and enjoyment of the public. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal 4. modified) [MPSP]
PFS-7.12: Recreation Activities at State Parks. The City shall coordinate with the State to maintain recreational activities for residents and visitors at the Santa Ines Mission Mills State Park, State Parks Department, and Santa Barbara Trust for Historic
Preservation management objectives. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy 4.1, modified) [SO, IGC]
PFS-7.13: Urban Trails Plan. The City shall prepare an urban trails plan and program in coordination with neighboring Cities. (Source:

Existing General Plan Policy 4.2) [MPSP, PSR]
Goal PFS-8:

To provide high-quality, cost-effective park operation and maintenance. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal 7, modified)
PFS-8.1: ADA Compliant Parks and Facilities. The City shall design park and recreation facilities that are ADA accessible and energy and 372

6. PUBLIC FACILITIES, SERVICES, AND INFRASTRUCTURE
Public Review Draft Public Facilities and Services Element, April 2023 | PFS-13 resource efficient. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal 5, Policy

5.1, and Action 5.1.A, modified) [MPSP, SO]
PFS-8.2: Energy Efficient Parks and Facilities. When creating new, or updating existing park and facility plans, the city should incorporate energy and resource efficient concepts to the extent feasible. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy 5.2) [MPSP] PFS-8.3: Water Efficient Parks. The City shall use drip irrigation and other water efficient methods in parks to the extent feasible. (Source:

Existing General Plan Action 5.2.A) [SO]
PFS-8.4: Drought Tolerant Landscaping. The City shall use drought tolerant landscaping, solar oriented structures, and structures with natural lighting during daylight hours, where feasible. (Source: Existing General Plan Action 5.2.B, modified) [SO] PFS-8.5: Park Facility Maintenance. The City shall reduce City Park facility maintenance costs wherever feasible including use of durable materials. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy 5.3 and Actions 5.3.A and 5.3.B, modified) [SO]
PFS-8.6: Long-term Park Maintenance and Operating Cost Estimate. The City shall estimate the long-term maintenance and operating costs associated with a proposed project in conjunction with accepting or developing a new park. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy 7.1) [FB, SO]
PFS-8.7: Park Net Benefit. The City shall ensure that it receives a net benefit to the City park and recreation system when an existing or proposed park is impacted by private or quasi-public infrastructure and other easements. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy 7.1, modified) [RDR, FB]
Goal PFS-9:

To use a variety of funding sources to acquire, develop, expand, and maintain the City’s parks, facilities, recreation opportunities and natural areas. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal 6, modified) PFS-9.1: Capital Improvement Program. The City shall continue to list potential park projects in the City’s Ten-Year Capital
Improvement Program project list. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy 6.1) [FB]
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PFS-14 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
PFS-9.2: Development Impact Fees. The City shall maintain and update projected costs for new park and recreation facilities to provide a basis of reviewing and updating development impact fees collected by the City to be used to fund improvements. (Source:

Existing General Plan Action 6.1.A) [FB]
PFS-9.3: Quimby Act. The City shall adopt a Quimby Act Park dedication ordinance at the ratio of one acre of parkland for each 1,000 in population added by proposed subdivisions, or payment of park in lieu fees. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy 6.2, modified) [RDR, FB]
PFS-9.4: Park Grant and Bond Funding. The City shall continue to pursue grants and park bond funding for construction of new parks, major park maintenance projects, or to upgrade or add new facilities to existing parks. (Source: Existing General Plan Action

6.3A) [FB]
PFS-9.5: Local Partnerships. The City shall explore funding arrangements and partnerships with other regional agencies. o (Source: Existing General Plan Policy 6.4, modified) [IGC, JP] Education and Libraries
Solvang School, located at 565 Atterdag Road, is the only public school located within the city. Solvang School is also the only school in the Solvang School District which serves students from kindergarten through eighth grade. The school attendance boundaries include the City of Solvang, as well as the unincorporated area northwest of the city along Ballard Canyon Road and a large area south of the Santa Ynez River.

Santa Ynez Valley Union High School serves Solvang residents. It is part of the Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District and is one of only two public high schools in the District. The other being Refugio High School, which is a special program high school located on the same campus as Santa Ynez Valley High School.

The Solvang Library provides digital resources, circulating items, and a variety of educational programs. On July 1, 2019, the City of Goleta took over the operation of libraries in the Santa Ynez Valley, including the Solvang Library. All libraries managed by Goleta are part of the Black Gold Cooperative Library System. The Solvang Library is located on 1745 Mission Drive. At the end of July 2020, Solvang had a total of 18,375 circulating items which include books, audiobooks, 374

6. PUBLIC FACILITIES, SERVICES, AND INFRASTRUCTURE
Public Review Draft Public Facilities and Services Element, April 2023 | PFS-15 DVDs, and magazines. During the 2019-2020 fiscal year, the library circulated these items 61,724 times. The library hosts a number of programs for children and adults, such as Preschool Storytime and Coding Club.

Goal PFS-10:

To provide Solvang with distinguished schools, programs, and learning opportunities. (Source: New Goal).

Policies
PFS-10.1: Solvang School District Partnership. The City shall continue to confer with and work jointly with the Solvang School District on issues of mutual interest, including new school sites or facilities. (Source: New Policy) [IGC].

PFS-10.2: School District Facility Planning. The City shall continue to forward all residential development proposals to the Solvang School District and the Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District for review with regard to school capacity and potential school sites. (Source: New Policy) [IGC].

PFS-10.3: Solvang Library. The City shall continue to support the Solvang Library to improve the library facilities and expand their service to the community. (Source: New Policy) [JP]
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7. ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY
Public Review Draft Environment and Sustainability Element, April 2023 | ENV-1 Environment and
Sustainability (ENV)
The Environment section describes the existing conditions related to environmental resources and sustainability in Solvang. This section includes, but is not limited to water quality and supply, air quality, greenhouse gas emissions and climate change, open space, cultural and natural resources, mineral resources, and biological resources. 7 377
ENV-2 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
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7. ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY
Public Review Draft Environment and Sustainability Element, April 2023 | ENV-3 Open Space and Conservation
Solvang desires to conserve and protect open space to preserve the scenic beauty of its natural surroundings. The city is located in the Santa Ynez Valley, known for its agricultural lands, rolling hills, open spaces, rural character, scenic roadways, and natural features. The unincorporated areas of the Santa Ynez Valley are governed by County of Santa Barbara and the Santa Ynez Valley Community Plan which designates allowed land uses, including a large amount of agricultural land.

The city contains two open space parcels, shown in Figure ENV-1:. The first is a

2.67-acre parcel located south of SR 246 near Nykobing, opposite the southern tip of Hans Christian Andersen Park. The second is a 9.00-acre parcel behind the homes along Aarhus Drive, east of Oster Sted Court. This second area is owned by the Nyborg Estates Homeowners Association and contains a steep canyon with some walking trails. Other important open space areas for the city include the two local golf courses, River Course at Alisal and the Alisal Golf Course at the Alisal Guest Ranch Resort. The Alisal Guest Ranch is a working 10,000-acre cattle ranch located in the southern portion of the city
Although only two parcels are officially designated as open space by the General Plan, some residential subdivisions within the city incorporate open space areas, particularly between neighborhoods. Within the Design Residential and Planned Residential Development Districts, the City requires a minimum of 40 percent of the gross acreage of a planned residential development be dedicated to landscaping that is owned and maintained by Homeowners Associations. 
For goals and policies relating to parks and recreation, please refer to Section PFS-7, PFS-8, and PFS-9 (Parks and Recreation) in the Public Facilities, Services, and Infrastructure Element.
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ENV-4 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
Figure ENV-1: Designated Open Space
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7. ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY
Public Review Draft Environment and Sustainability Element, April 2023 | ENV-5 Goal ENV-1:

To protect and provide access to important space areas within the city and within the region. (Source: Existing General Plan, Goal 8.1, modified) Policies
ENV-1.1: Open Space Management. The City shall manage city-owned open space designated land for the protection of sensitive biological resources primarily as a preserve. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 8.1.C, modified) [SO]
ENV-1.2: Support Regional Open Space. The City shall support the efforts of Santa Barbara County, and other jurisdictions, the Land Trust for Santa Barbara County and other agencies, organizations, and private landowners to establish and maintain open space lands in the region. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 8.1.F, modified) [IGC]
ENV-1.3: Maintain Agricultural Lands. The City shall support Santa Barbara County to retain the Agriculture designation in viable farming units on lands surrounding the City and support implementation of the Santa Ynez Valley Community Plan. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 8.1.G, modified) [IGC] ENV-1.4: Open Space Access. The City shall continue to provide access to open space resources, with interpretive information, when doing so is consistent with protection of the resources, and with the security and privacy of affected landowners and occupants. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 8.1.J) [SO]
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Goal ENV-2:

To protect important scenic resources within the city’s plan area. (Source:

Existing General Plan, Goal 8.2)
Policies
ENV-2.1: Protect Scenic Qualities. The City shall protect and enhance the important scenic qualities within the City Limits, including scenic views of rolling hillsides and agricultural lands. (Source:

Existing General Plan, Policy 8.2) [SO, RDR]
ENV-2.2: Urban Forest. The City shall protect the urban forest created by mature trees in existing developed areas and require planting of approved trees and landscaping in new development. (Source:

Existing General Plan, Action 8.2.E) [SO, RDR]
ENV-2.3: Scenic Transportation Corridors. The City shall support efforts by Santa Barbara County to protect the scenic qualities of transportation corridors serving the City and region. (Source:

Existing General Plan, Action 8.2.F) [IGC]
ENV-2.4: Greenbelts. The City shall work with the County of Santa Barbara, the City of Buellton, and other jurisdictions and agencies, to preserve the scenic character of the greenbelts and buffers surrounding Solvang, and enhance the gateways to the City. (Source: New Policy) [IGC]
ENV-2.5: City Gateways. The City shall support efforts to enhance and improve city gateways. (Source: New Policy) [MSPS}
Biological Resources
Solvang is located along the southern edge of the Santa Ynez Valley where three creeks, Alamo Pintado Creek, Alisal Creek and Adobe Creek, flow into the Santa Ynez River. The river and its watershed from a riparian habitat with nearby chaparral and oak woodland supported a variety of species. The watershed is also identified as a Critical Habitat for Steelhead Trout, which are endangered in Southern California. The State Water Resources Control Board adopted an order to protect the steelhead trout population and downstream senior water right holders for Cachuma Reservoir in Santa Barbara County. This will assist in restoration for the Santa Ynez River watershed ecosystem. (Source: Existing Conditions and Trends Workbook)
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7. ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY
Public Review Draft Environment and Sustainability Element, April 2023 | ENV-7 Habitats within the city include designated wetland, annual grassland, barren land, coastal oak woodland, coastal scrub, deciduous orchard, mixed chapparal, valley foothill riparian, and valley oak woodland. There are three California Protected Areas within Solvang for conservation purposes: Alisal Commons Park, Hans Christian Anderson Park, and Sunny Fields Park. California Protected Areas are lands that are protected for open space purposes and can include regional parks, forests, preserves, and wildlife areas as well as urban parks that are mainly open space. (Source: Existing Conditions and Trends Workbook) Goal ENV-3:

To protect natural open space areas, sensitive native vegetation, and wildlife communities and habitat. (Source: Existing General Plan, Goal 3.1) Policies
ENV-3.1: Natural Resource Protection. The City shall protect sensitive natural resources, wildlife communities and habitats within the open spaces. (Source: Existing General Plan, Policy 3.1) [RDR] ENV-3.2: Educational Programs. The City shall encourage and support educational programs in the local schools and park programs that enhance public appreciation and awareness of the natural environment, and programs on how to manage development to preserve native wildlife populations. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 3.1.A) [PI]
ENV-3.3: Minimize Impacts of Development. The City shall ensure new development does not significantly deplete, damage, or alter existing critical wildlife habitat or populations such as coastal oak woodland along Alamo Pintado Creek, Alisal Creek, and Adobe Creek and riparian habitat along the Santa Ynez River. (Source: New Policy) [RDR]
ENV-3.4: Support Local and Regional Efforts. The City shall support and participate in local and regional efforts of local, State and federal resource agencies (e.g., Santa Barbara County, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, U.S. Army Corps, United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Cost Guard, local land trusts and conservation organizations) to protect, restore and maintain viable, contiguous areas of habitat for sensitive plant and animal species along Alamo Pintado Creek, Alisal Creek, and Adobe 383
ENV-8 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
Creek and the Santa Ynez River. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 3.1.D, modified) [IGC]
ENV-3.5: Preserve Creek Corridors. The City shall preserve the ecological integrity of creek corridors that support riparian resources by preserving native riparian plants and, to the extent feasible, removing invasive nonnative plants. If preservation of the ecological integrity of existing resources is found to be infeasible, adverse impacts to riparian resources shall be fully mitigated consistent with the requirements of applicable State and Federal regulations. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action

3.1.E) [SO, RDR]
Historic and Cultural
Resources
Based on archeological records, humans have resided in and around the areas surrounding Solvang for over 7,500 years. The Chumash were the first known people to inhabit the area. Pre-historic and historic resources have been discovered throughout the area, particularly near permanent water supplies such as the Santa Ynez River, Alamo Pintado Creek, and Alisal Creek. Additionally, it is likely these areas contain archaeological and historic resources that have not yet been discovered. Solvang contains many buildings and landmarks of historical significance including Mission Santa Inés, certain 20th Century structures, and some that reflect early Danish settlement. (Source: Existing General Plan) Chumash
The Chumash were the original inhabitants of the region. A subsect of the Chumash known as the Ynezeño, occupied the Alisos Canyon area of the Santa Ynez Valley, which includes modern-day Solvang. During the 18th century, the Chumash population was estimated to be in the tens of thousands, with territory covering approximately 7,000 square miles spanning from Malibu to Paso Robles and stretching inland to the western edge of the San Joaquin Valley. Many Chumash tribal members currently reside on the Chumash Indian Reservation, located approximately three miles northeast of Solvang, which was established in 1901. The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians is the only Federallyrecognized Chumash tribe in the United States and is the central location for Chumash tribal government. Due to extensive Native American settlement in the Santa Ynez Valley, archaeological resources are regularly uncovered in the vicinity of Solvang, predominately near waterways including the Santa Ynez 384

7. ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY
Public Review Draft Environment and Sustainability Element, April 2023 | ENV-9 River. Based on the pattern and extent of pre-historic and historic settlement, previously undiscovered resources may be present within the city. (Source:

Existing Conditions and Trends Workbook)
Tribal Consultation
The City works with the local Santa Ynez Valley Band of Chumash Indians to ensure the protection of cultural and tribal resources. In addition to ongoing communication with local tribal governments, Solvang fully adheres to required consultation procedures as outlined in State legislation:
• Senate Bill 18 (2004) – SB 18 requires local governments to consult with California Native American Tribes prior to making certain planning decisions, such as adoption or amendment of general plans and specific plans or designation of open space, and to provide notice to tribes at certain key points during the planning process. The purpose of SB 18 is to engage tribes in decision making early in the planning process.
• Assembly Bill 52 (2014) – AB 52 requires public agencies to consult with California Native American Tribes during the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) process about potential tribal cultural resources in the project area and the potential significance of project impacts. AB 52 is intended to include California Native American Tribes within the decision making and protect tribal cultural resources.

Mission Santa Inés
Mission Santa Inés, located at 1760 Mission Drive in Solvang, was founded in 1804 as part of the Spanish Missions of California. The Mission was constructed as a midway point between Mission Santa Barbara and Mission La Purisima Concepcion. Most of the original church structure was destroyed during the 1812 Santa Barbara earthquake. It was reconstructed in 1817 to better withstand seismic events. Today the Mission serves as parish church of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and incorporates a historical museum and burial ground. It is recognized as a historic landmark at both the State and national level and is a major tourist attraction. (Source: Existing Conditions and Trends Workbook) 385
ENV-10 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
Goal ENV-4:

To protect the historic and cultural resources in order to preserve the heritage of native peoples and the area’s earliest settlers. (Existing General Plan, Goal 4.1, modified)
Policies
ENV-4.1: Protect Archaeological Resources. The City shall provide for the protection of both known and potential archaeological
resources citywide. To avoid significant damage to important archaeological sites, all available measures shall be explored at the time of a development proposal. Where such measures are not feasible and development would adversely affect identified archaeological or paleontological resources, mitigation shall be required in accordance with the relevant provisions of federal and State laws. (Source: Existing General Plan, Policy 4.1, modified) [RDR]
ENV-4.2: Collaboration with Chumash. The City shall continue a positive and collaborative working relationship with the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians through continued consultation and
collaboration with respect to the preservation of, or the mitigation of impacts to, specified Native American places, features, and objects. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action

4.1.B, modified) [IGC]
ENV-4.3: Central Coast Information Center Referrals. The City shall continue to refer development proposals that may adversely affect archaeological sites to the University of California Santa Barbara Central Coast Information Center for review and comment. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 4.1.A) [RDR] Danish Heritage and Early Settlement
Danish American culture has existed in Solvang since its founding in 1911. Early in its history, Solvang looked like many other small rural California towns and did not outwardly reflect its Danish cultural heritage through architecture. Bethania Lutheran Church, completed in 1928, was the first structure to reflect the Danish heritage with many more following in the years after WWII. The Veterans Memorial Building, a community treasure constructed in 1937, incorporates Mission-style arches as does the promenade constructed in the 1930s on store fronts along Copenhagen Drive.
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7. ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY
Public Review Draft Environment and Sustainability Element, April 2023 | ENV-11 Danish culture is on display throughout contemporary Solvang in architecture and icons, including the downtown with its half-timber facades and replicas of Danish structures. Many of the early buildings remain, redressed in Danish style, as does the Mission-style promenade constructed along Copenhagen Drive in Solvang is home to several museums including the Elverhøj Museum of History and Art. Housed in a historic Danish-style structure, Elverhøj celebrates the community’s history and heritage. (Source: Existing Conditions and Trends Workbook)
Goal ENV-5:

To preserve and enhance Solvang's Historic and Danish heritage. (Source:

Existing General Plan, Goal 4.2, modified)
Policies
ENV-5.1: Protect Significant Sites and Buildings. The City shall protect and enhance Solvang’s historically and architecturally
significant sites and buildings. (Source: Existing General Plan, Policy 4.2) [SO, RDR]
ENV-5.2: Support Property Owners. The City shall encourage the efforts of property owners to preserve and renovate historic and architecturally significant structures. Where such buildings cannot be preserved intact, the City shall seek to preserve the building facades and ensure renovations are consistent with the applicable standards set forth in the Community Design Element and design guidelines. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action

4.2.B) [RDR, JP]
Mineral Resources
Mineral resources are naturally occurring minerals that have, or are expected to have, economic value. In Solvang these include sand and gravel. There are no known oil or gas fields within or in proximity to the city. The policies in this section encourage continued accessibility to native minerals, while avoiding significant harm to the environment or human health from their extraction. (Source: Existing General Plan)
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ENV-12 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
Goal ENV-6:

To achieve environmentally responsible reclamation of mineralextraction sites. (Source: Existing General Plan, Goal 7.1) Policies
ENV-6.1: Mineral Extraction Site Reclamation. The City shall require the environmentally responsible reclamation of mineral extraction sites within the City and shall work with other agencies in the area to do the same. (Source: Existing General Plan, Policy 7.1) [RDR]
ENV-6.2: Prohibit Mineral Extraction in Open Space. The City shall prohibit mineral extraction within open space owned by the City in fee or as an easement. (Source: Existing General Plan, Policy

7.2, modified) [RDR]
ENV-6.3: Mineral Extraction. The City shall work with existing mineral extraction operations to minimize impacts to human health and the environment. (New Policy) [RDR, JP]
Water Resources
The Water Division of the Utilities Department operates and maintains the City's water supply and distribution facilities and provides potable water to the residents and businesses of Solvang. The Water Division is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the entire water system. Like most of California, Solvang are subjected to intensified drought conditions. These droughts have led to local mandatory reductions in water use. It is likely that droughts will become more common in the future due to climate change. (Source: Existing Conditions and Trends Workbook)
The City has four water supply sources: State Water, Upland Wells, River Wells and the Santa Ynez River Water Improvement District. The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) operates the State Water Project which allocates a maximum of 1,500 acre-feet per year (AFY) of State Water to the City. However, the percentage of this allocation granted to the City varies each year based on rainfall, Sierra snowpack, and State reservoir levels. In recent years the allocation of State Water has varied from 5 percent (during drought) to as much as 85 percent. (Source: Existing Conditions and Trends Workbook) 388

7. ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY
Public Review Draft Environment and Sustainability Element, April 2023 | ENV-13 The City manages the local groundwater supply in partnership with the Santa Ynez River Water Conservation District (SYRWCD). The City, Central Coast Water Authority, and SYRWCD regularly monitor water levels pursuant to applicable standards. SYRWCD also publishes an annual water quality report. (Source:

Existing Conditions and Trends Workbook)
Water Quality
Water quality in Solvang is monitored through the Water Division’s State-Certified water operators’ drinking water testing. The Water Division's State-certified water operators perform daily, monthly, and annual testing of Solvang's drinking water to verify residents are receiving a safe supply of municipal water. The City publishes the annual Consumer Confidence Report to share the results of water monitoring. The City also provides brochures and posters of Stormwater Best Management Practices Guides for residents and business owners. (Source:

Existing Conditions and Trends Workbook)
Goal ENV-7:

To maintain an adequate level of service in the City’s water system to meet the needs of existing and future development. (Source: Existing General Plan, Goal 2.2)
Policies
ENV-7.1: Adequate Water Supply. The City shall continue to work with water providers to ensure adequate water supply is available to the community. Further, the City shall impose limitations or moratoriums on new development or redevelopment when the water supply of existing customers will be adversely impacted. (Source: New Policy) [IGC]
ENV-7.2: Diverse Water Supply. The City shall pursue a water supply program consisting of the development of multiple sources of water, water conservation, and groundwater management to accommodate projected water demand and provide as best
possible for water supply security. (Source: Existing General Plan, Policy 2.2, modified) [PSR]
ENV-7.3: Water Conservation Measures. The City shall require new development and redevelopment projects to incorporate water conservation measures to reduce water demand through the 389
ENV-14 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO), relevant
sections of Title 24 and LEED certification, and other
conservation policies and programs. (Source: New Policy). [RDR] Air Quality and Climate
Change
Air Quality
Solvang is located in the South Central Coast Air Basin (SCCAB), which includes all of San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura Counties, and is within the jurisdiction of the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District (SBCAPCD).

The SBAPCD conducts continuous air monitoring to assess regional air quality, updating its website with hourly measurements and issuing alerts when conditions reach hazardous levels. The primary air pollutants in Santa Barbara County are ground-level ozone, particulate matter, and air toxins. The majority of local air pollution sources in Solvang are from the operation of on-road vehicles tied to local and regional traffic on State Route 246. Another source of air pollution, especially particulate matter, and greatly affects air quality in Solvang and the greater Santa Ynez Valley during fire events. Wildfires are expected to have a greater impact to the region and the state as climate change increases their frequency and severity.

Santa Barbara County generally has good air quality as measured by State and Federal standards. Certain land uses are more sensitive to air pollution, such as those that support people who may have a significantly increased sensitivity or exposure to air pollution by virtue of their age and health (e.g., schools, day care centers, hospitals, and nursing homes), plants or animals with a special status (e.g. sensitive or endangered species), or those who are in close proximity to the pollution source.
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Public Review Draft Environment and Sustainability Element, April 2023 | ENV-15 Goal ENV-8:

To foster effective communication, cooperation, and coordination in developing and operating community and regional air quality programs. (Source: Existing General Plan, Goal 5.1)
Policies
ENV-8.1: Reduce Air Pollution. The City shall cooperate with the efforts of the SBCAPCD to reduce emission of air pollutants and their precursors and ensure ongoing attainment of federal and State ambient air quality standards. (Source: Existing General Plan, Policy 5.1) [IGC]
ENV-8.2: Particulate Emissions Reduction. The City shall work with the SBCAPCD to reduce particulate emissions from construction, grading, excavation, and demolition to the maximum extent feasible. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 5.1.K, modified) [IGC]
ENV-8.3: Air Quality Mitigation Measures. The City shall ensure all air quality mitigation measures are feasible, implementable, and cost effective. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 5.1.D) [RDR] ENV-8.4: Mitigation Measures. The City shall require new development and redevelopment to incorporate measures from the most recent SBCAPCD Clean Air Plan to reduce air quality impacts to a less than significant level. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 5.1.E, modified) [RDR]
ENV-8.5: Air Quality Education Programs. The City shall support the efforts of local public and private groups that provide air quality education programs. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action

5.1.J) [JP]
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ENV-16 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
Goal ENV-9:

To reduce the air quality impacts of motor vehicle and small engine use. (Source: Existing General Plan, Goal 5.2, modified)
Policies
ENV-9.1: Workforce Housing Opportunities. The City shall support expansion of workforce housing opportunities in Solvang to reduce the volume and distance of home-to-work commute trips by motor vehicle. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 5.2.C, modified) [RDR]
ENV-9.2: Commuter Trip Reduction. The City shall support regional transportation programs that reduce single-rider commuter related vehicle trips. (Source: New Policy) [SO, IGC]
ENV-9.3: Alternative Modes of Transportation. The City shall encourage the use of alternative transportation modes, including transit, walking, and bicycling. (Source: New Policy) [IGC, JP]
ENV-9.4: Electric Vehicle Infrastructure. The City shall encourage the installation of solar photovoltaic systems and electric vehicle charging facilities in commercial, residential, and industrial development. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 5.2.D) [RDR, JP, PI]
ENV-9.5: Fuel Efficient Vehicles. The City shall encourage adoption of alternative fuel vehicles including electric, hybrid, hydrogen fuel cell, or other fuel-efficient vehicles, for personal transportation. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 6.2.A) [PI]
ENV-9.6: City Fleet and Equipment. The City shall work toward converting 100 percent of non-emergency City vehicles to electric, hybrid, flex-fuel, or alternative fuels. In addition, the City shall replace gas-powered mowers and other equipment with electric or hybrid models and to use alternative carbon-free models where possible. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 6.2.C) [SO] ENV-9.7: Sustainable Development Patterns. The City shall continue to promote patterns of development that minimize dependence on personal automobiles and reduce VMT and GHG. (Source:

Existing General Plan, Action 6.1.C modified) [RDR]
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Public Review Draft Environment and Sustainability Element, April 2023 | ENV-17 Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Greenhouse gases (GHG) trap heat in the Earth’s atmosphere and influence the surface temperature of Earth. The main sources of GHG emissions in California include cars, energy production, and large-scale business activity. The State of California has passed legislation setting GHG reduction targets including Assembly Bill (AB) 32, Senate Bill (SB) 32, Executive Order (EO) B-55-18, and SB 100 which outline a path to carbon neutrality by 2045. The State has made substantial efforts to lower GHG emissions and decarbonize the economy by investing in clean energy and encouraging building and vehicle electrification.

Similarly, cities such as Solvang are working to further the transition to a carbon free economy by implementing local mitigation strategies that reduce GHG emissions or capture GHGs before they are released into the atmosphere. These mitigation strategies include actions such as planting trees to sequester carbon dioxide in the air, transitioning to renewable sources of energy, and increasing energy and fuel efficiency for buildings and vehicles.

Goal ENV-10:

To reduce the emission of greenhouse gases. (Source: Existing General Plan, Goal 5.5)
Policies
ENV-10.1: State GHG Reduction Goals. The City shall work with the SBCAPCD, SBCAG and Santa Barbara County to comply with
statewide greenhouse gas reduction goals as established in AB 32, SB 375 and subsequent Executive Orders and legislation. (Source: Existing General Plan, Policy 5.5)
ENV-10.2: Regional Climate and Sustainability Plans. The City shall implement the relevant provisions of the Santa Barbara County Energy plans to reduce emissions. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 5.5.A, modified)
ENV-10.3: GHG Reduction Preference. The City shall give preference to vendors which reduce or eliminate indirect greenhouse gas emissions. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 5.2.G, modified)
ENV-10.4: GHG Thresholds. The City shall establish and maintain GHG thresholds to evaluate non-exempt discretionary projects 393
ENV-18 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
consistent with CEQA. Projects above those thresholds shall mitigate their GHG emissions and locally offset the remaining GHG emissions if necessary. (Source: New Policy)
ENV-10.5: Prioritize GHG Reduction in Development. The City shall support new development that is compact, mixed-use, transit oriented, and reduces GHG emissions by lowering vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and promoting energy-efficient building design and site planning. (Source: New Policy)
Goal ENV-11:

To encourage community action to mitigate and adapt to climate change. (Source: New Goal)
Policies
ENV-11.1: Green Business Program. The City shall encourage businesses to obtain certification under the Santa Barbara County Green Business Program. (Source: Existing General Plan, Policy 6.1) ENV-11.2: Sustainability Education. The City shall partner with the local school districts, waste haulers, food banks, and other local organizations to integrate sustainability and environmental literacy into the academic curriculum and educate the
community on waste diversion and recycling. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 6.1.B)
ENV-11.3: Local Partnerships. The City shall partner with local businesses and organizations to secure grants and incentives for facilitating GHG reduction projects such as energy efficiency and
renewable energy projects. (Source: New Policy)
Goal ENV-12:

To incorporate sustainable building and development practices into the city's development regulations. (Source: Existing General Plan, Goal 6.4) Policies
ENV-12.1: Green Building Code. The City shall require through the State Building Code energy efficient construction and sustainable 394

7. ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY
Public Review Draft Environment and Sustainability Element, April 2023 | ENV-19 building practices by continuing to implement the Green Building Code. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 6.3.B, modified) ENV-12.2: Green Building Practices. The City shall support the use of green building practices in the planning, design, construction, management, renovation, operations, and demolition of all public and private buildings and projects, including: (Source:

Existing General Plan, Action 6.4.A)
• Land planning and design techniques that preserve the natural environment and minimize disturbance of the land. • Site development to reduce erosion, minimize paved
surfaces and runoff and protect vegetation, especially trees. • Water conservation indoors and outdoors.
• Energy efficiency in heating/cooling systems, appliances, lighting and the building envelope.
• Selection of materials based on recyclability, durability and the amount of energy used to create the material.
• Waste reduction, reuse and recycling during construction and throughout the life of the project.
• Other new aspects of green design and construction
included in LEED™ or other certification programs.
• Control nighttime lighting to lower energy use, reduce glare, and prevent illumination of the night sky.

ENV-12.3: LEED Certified City Buildings. The City shall design and construct all new or renovated City buildings to achieve Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold rating requirements. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 6.4.B, modified)
ENV-12.4: Passive Temperature Regulation. The City shall to the extent feasible, require the orientation of buildings to maximize passive solar heating during cool seasons, avoid solar heat gain in warm seasons, enhance natural ventilation and effective use of daylight, and to maximize opportunities for the installation of solar panels. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 6.4.C) ENV-12.5: Co-Generation Facilities. The City should promote and encourage co-generation projects, office, and industrial 395
ENV-20 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
facilities, provided they meet all applicable air quality standards and provide a net reduction in GHG emissions associated with energy production. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 6.4.F, modified)
ENV-12.6: Emerging Technologies. The City shall remain informed of and support the inclusion of new and emerging technologies for carbon-free and energy efficient design. Support may include permit streamlining procedures, reduced fees, rebate and financing information, or other incentives at the City’s discretion. (Source: New Policy)
Energy
Energy for lighting, heating and cooling, and powering buildings is a major component of GHG emissions in Solvang. Reducing GHG emissions related to energy can be accomplished by reducing energy use and by transitioning to clean energy sources. Implementing energy efficient design in new construction and retrofitting existing buildings with fuel efficient fixtures and superior insulation reduces energy demand. Installation of renewable energy sources such as solar eliminates the carbon footprint associated with the energy that is consumed.

Because renewable energy can provide carbon free electricity, electrification of buildings and vehicles works to eliminate GHG emissions associated with energy and fuel consuming activities. Currently, many buildings in Solvang use natural gas as a source of energy. Moving away from dependency on natural gas will reduce the city’s GHG emissions. Reducing GHG emissions through electrification and renewable energy will help the City of Solvang achieve the statewide goal of carbon neutrality by 2045, set by EO B-55-18 and SB 100.

Goal ENV-13:

To reduce Green House emissions (GHG) related to energy consumption. (Source: Existing General Plan, Goal 6.3, modified)
Policies
ENV-13.1: Energy Efficiency Incentives. The City shall work with energy providers and developers on voluntary incentive-based
programs to encourage the use of energy efficient designs and 396

7. ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY
Public Review Draft Environment and Sustainability Element, April 2023 | ENV-21 equipment in existing buildings. (Source: Existing General Plan, Policy 6.3)
ENV-13.2: Renewable Energy for Homes. The City shall encourage installation of renewable energy sources for new homes per the new state building codes. (Source: New Policy)
ENV-13.3: Building Emissions Reductions Plan. The City shall consider the adoption of an ordinance for all new buildings to meet State emissions reductions targets by 2045. (Source: New Policy) ENV-13.4: Energy Retrofit Program. The City shall encourage homeowners and building owners to retrofit their structures with energy efficiency improvements. (Source: New Policy)
ENV-13.5: Low Income Energy Efficiency. The City shall partner with community service agencies and organizations to support energy efficient projects for low-income residents. Eligible projects may include, but are not limited to, the installation of heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems, lighting, water heating equipment, and insulation and weatherization. (Source:

Existing General Plan, Action 5.2.D)
ENV-13.6: Renewable Energy in Open Space. The City shall allow renewable energy projects in areas zoned for open space, where consistent with all the elements of this General Plan, and other uses and values. (Source: Existing General Plan, Action 6.4.H) Solid Waste
Solid Waste Reduction and Recycling
The City of Solvang contracts with a third party provider to provide solid waste collection services. A portion of the solid waste generated by residents and businesses in Solvang is diverted from landfills through recycling and reuse. The Solvang Municipal Code Title 5 Chapter 2, Trash and Disposal Maintenance, regulates the management of solid waste and recycling in the city, including the services of franchise waste haulers. The Solid Waste Collection Program includes programs for diversion of recyclable materials and organic waste from landfills. State law requires that the City create a waste management plan to direct the City’s waste source reduction, recycling and composting, and 397
ENV-22 | Public Review Draft, April 2023
environmentally safe transformation and disposal in order to achieve the statewide goal of source-reduction, recycling, or composting of 75 percent of solid waste generated in California.

Solvang City CouncilJuly 8, 2024

Solvang City Council
July 8, 2024