RESOLUTION NO. 2023-03
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF STANTON, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE CITY’S LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN WHEREAS, the City is charged and entrusted with the protection of persons and property prior to, during, and after emergencies; and
WHEREAS, the City has prepared a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) in compliance with the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000; and
WHEREAS, this LHMP represents a comprehensive description of the City’s commitment to reducing, preventing, or eliminating potential impacts of disasters caused by natural and some human-caused hazards; and
WHEREAS, City staff has collaborated with numerous partner agencies and hazard experts to develop the LHMP by organizing resources, assessing risks, and forming a comprehensive hazard mitigation strategy and monitoring process; and WHEREAS, the community, surrounding cities, and all City Commissions and Boards were invited to provide feedback on the draft LHMP beginning July 19, 2022; and WHEREAS, on September 20, 2022, the public review period was completed, having received minor comments that required minimal revisions to the plan; and WHEREAS, on September 23, 2022, the City transmitted the LHMP to the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), initiating the formal review process; and
WHEREAS, on October 26, 2022, Cal OES approved the LHMP and transmitted the plan to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for review; and WHEREAS, on January 3, 2023, the City has received a letter from FEMA identifying the City’s LHMP as eligible for approval pending final adoption by the Stanton City Council; and
WHEREAS, City Council adoption of a current LHMP will make the City eligible to receive earmarked mitigation grant funding, as well as eligible to apply for additional federal mitigation grants.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY OF STANTON HEREBY RESOLVES AND ORDERS AS FOLLOWS:
1. The City of Stanton hereby approves and adopts the Stanton Local Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Attachment: A
Click here to return to the agenda.
RESOLUTION NO. 2023-03
2. The respective officials identified in the Plan are hereby directed to pursue implementation of the recommended actions assigned to them.
3. City officials designated in the Plan are authorized and directed to prepare future revisions and plan maintenance, as required by the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 and FEMA, and submit them to the City Council for approval for a period of five (5) years from the date of this resolution.
4. The City of Stanton will comply with all applicable Federal Statutes and Regulations in effect with respect to the periods for which it receives grant funding, in compliance with 44 CFR 13.11 (c); and will amend the Plan whenever necessary to reflect applicable changes in Tribe, State, or Federal Laws and Statues as required by 44 CFR 13.11 (d).
ADOPTED, SIGNED AND APPROVED this 24th day of January, 2023. _____________________________________
DAVID J. SHAWVER, MAYOR
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________________
HONGDAO NGUYEN, CITY ATTORNEY
ATTEST:
I, PATRICIA A. VAZQUEZ, City Clerk of the City of Stanton, California DO HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing Resolution, being Resolution No. 2023-03 has been duly signed by the Mayor and attested by the City Clerk, all at a regular meeting of the Stanton City Council, held on January 24, 2023 and that the same was adopted, signed and approved by the following vote to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
PATRICIA A. VAZQUEZ, CITY CLERK
2022
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Council Adopted Version
1/24/2023
Attachment: B
Click here to return to the agenda.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
ii
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1 – INTRODUCTION..................................................................................... 1 PLAN PURPOSE AND AUTHORITY .............................................................................................. 1 PLAN ORGANIZATION AND USE................................................................................................. 3 PREVIOUS STANTON LHMP...................................................................................................... 3 PLAN GOALS ........................................................................................................................... 3 PLANNING PROCESS ................................................................................................................ 4 CHAPTER 2 – COMMUNITY PROFILE........................................................................ 11 SETTING AND LOCATION..........................................................................................................11 HISTORY.................................................................................................................................11 DEMOGRAPHICS......................................................................................................................12 ECONOMY AND COMMUTE PATTERNS.......................................................................................14 DEVELOPMENT TRENDS ..........................................................................................................16 INFRASTRUCTURE ASSESSMENT ..............................................................................................17 CHAPTER 3 – HAZARD ASSESSMENT...................................................................... 21 HAZARD IDENTIFICATION .........................................................................................................21 HAZARD SCORING AND PRIORITIZATION ...................................................................................25 HAZARD PROFILES..................................................................................................................27 CHAPTER 4 – THREAT AND VULNERABILITY .......................................................... 67 THREAT ASSESSMENT PROCESS .............................................................................................67 THREAT PROFILES ..................................................................................................................70 CHAPTER 5 – HAZARD MITIGATION STRATEGY ..................................................... 87 STRATEGY DEVELOPMENT PROCESS .......................................................................................87 USE OF HAZARD AND THREAT ASSESSMENT ............................................................................87 CAPABILITIES ASSESSMENT ....................................................................................................87 HAZARD MITIGATION STRATEGIES AND ACTIONS......................................................................95 City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
iv
NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM.................................................................................97 CHAPTER 6 – PLAN MAINTENANCE........................................................................ 107 COORDINATING BODY ...........................................................................................................107 PLAN IMPLEMENTATION.........................................................................................................108 PLAN MAINTENANCE PROCESS..............................................................................................108 POINT OF CONTACT ..............................................................................................................110 APPENDIX A – HMPC MEETING MATERIALS
APPENDIX B – OUTREACH ENGAGEMENT MATERIALS
APPENDIX C – RESOLUTION OF ADOPTION
APPENDIX D – LIST OF KEY FACILITIES
APPENDIX E – HAZARD MITIGATION IMPLEMENTATION HANDBOOK
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
1 CHAPTER 1 – INTRODUCTION
PLAN PURPOSE AND AUTHORITY
Hazard events can lead to injuries or death, affect the overall health and safety of a community, damage or destroy public and private property, harm ecosystems, and disrupt key services. Although the hazard event itself often gets the most attention, it is only one part of a larger emergency management cycle.
Emergency planners and responders can take steps during the response, recovery, mitigation, and preparedness phases of the cycle to minimize the harm caused by a disaster. This Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) focuses on optimizing the mitigation phase of the cycle. Mitigation involves making a community more resilient so that when hazard events do ultimately occur, the community suffers less damage and can recover more quickly and effectively. It differs from preparedness, which involves advanced planning for how best to respond when a disaster occurs or is imminent. For example, a policy to make homes structurally stronger so they suffer less damage during an earthquake is a mitigation action, while fully equipping emergency shelters to accommodate people who lose their homes in an earthquake is a preparedness action. Some activities may qualify as both.
Like other communities, the City of Stanton (City) could potentially suffer severe harm from hazard events. Although large disasters may cause widespread devastation, even smaller disasters can have substantial effects. The City cannot make itself completely immune to hazard events, but this LHMP can help make the community a safer place to live, work, and visit. This LHMP provides a comprehensive assessment of the threats that the City faces from natural and human-caused hazard events and a coordinated strategy to reduce these threats. It identifies resources and information to help community members, City staff, and local officials understand local threats and make informed decisions. The LHMP can also support increased coordination and collaboration between the City, other public agencies, local employers, service providers, community members, and other key stakeholders.
Federal Authority
The City is not required to prepare an LHMP, but state and federal regulations encourage it. The federal Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief
KEY TERMS
HAZARD EVENT: AN EMERGENCY DUE
TO A NATURAL OR HUMAN-CAUSED
EVENT THAT HAS THE POTENTIAL TO
CAUSE HARM.
HAZARD MITIGATION: ANY
SUSTAINED ACTION OR SET OF
ACTIONS TAKEN TO REDUCE OR
ELIMINATE IMPACTS TO PEOPLE AND
PROPERTY FROM EVENTS
ASSOCIATED WITH NATURALLY
EXISTING OR HUMAN-CREATED
HAZARDS.
RESILIENCE: THE "CAPACITY OF ANY
ENTITY—AN INDIVIDUAL, A
COMMUNITY, AN ORGANIZATION, OR
A NATURAL SYSTEM—TO PREPARE
FOR DISRUPTIONS, TO RECOVER
FROM SHOCKS AND STRESSES, AND
TO ADAPT AND GROW FROM A
DISRUPTIVE EXPERIENCE."
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
2 and Emergency Act, amended by the Disaster Management Act of 2000, creates a federal framework for local hazard mitigation planning. It states that jurisdictions that wish to be eligible for federal hazard mitigation grant funding must prepare a hazard mitigation plan that meets a specific set of guidelines and submit it to the Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) for review and approval.
These guidelines are outlined in the Code of Federal
Regulations, Title 44, Part 201, and discussed in greater detail in FEMA's Local Mitigation Plan Review Tool.
State Authority
CALIFORNIA GOVERNMENT CODE SECTIONS 8685.9 AND 65302.6
California Government Code Section 8685.91 limits the
State of California's share of disaster relief funds paid out to local governments to 75% of the funds not paid for by
federal disaster relief efforts except when the jurisdiction has adopted a valid hazard mitigation plan consistent with the Disaster Management Act of 2000. This plan must be
incorporated into the hazard mitigation plan in the
jurisdiction's general plan. In these cases, the State may cover more than 75% of the remaining disaster relief costs.
All cities and counties in California must prepare a general plan, which must include a safety element that addresses various hazard conditions and other public safety issues. The safety element may be a standalone chapter or incorporated into another section, as the community wishes. California Government Code Section 65302.6 indicates that a community may adopt an LHMP into its safety element if the LHMP meets applicable state requirements. This adoption allows communities to use the LHMP to satisfy state requirements for safety elements. As the General Plan is an overarching long-term plan for community growth and development, incorporating the LHMP into it creates a stronger mechanism for implementing the LHMP. This LHMP and future updates will be integrated into the City's General Plan Safety Element.
CALIFORNIA GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 65302 (G)(4)
California Government Code Section 65302 (g)(4) 2 requires that the safety element of a community's general plan address the hazards created or exacerbated by climate change. The safety element must identify how climate change is expected to affect the community's hazard conditions and include measures to adapt and be more resilient to these anticipated changes.
Because the LHMP can be incorporated into the safety element, including these items in the LHMP can satisfy the state requirement. SB 379 requires that climate change be addressed in the safety element when the LHMP is updated after January 1, 2017, for communities that already have an LHMP, or by January 1, 2022, for communities without one. This LHMP is consistent with current standards and 1 also known as Assembly Bill 2140
2 also known as Senate Bill (SB) 379
FEMA’s Local Mitigation Planning Handbook, last
updated in 2013, is one of the key guidance documents
for local communities in preparing hazard mitigation
plans.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
3 regulations, as outlined by the California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) and FEMA. It uses the best available science, and its mitigation actions/strategies reflect best practices and community values.
It meets the requirements of the current state and federal guidelines and makes the City eligible for all appropriate benefits under state and federal law and practices. Note that while FEMA is responsible for reviewing and certifying this LHMP, and Cal OES is responsible for conducting a preliminary review, it does not grant FEMA or Cal OES any increased role in the governance of the City, nor authorize either agency to take any specific action in the community.
PLAN ORGANIZATION AND USE
The Stanton LHMP is both a reference document and an action plan. It has information and resources to educate readers and decision-makers about hazard events and related issues and a comprehensive strategy that the City and community members can follow to improve resilience in the City. It is divided into the following chapters:
Chapter 1: Introduction. This chapter describes the Plan's background, its goals and objectives, and the process used in its development.
Chapter 2: Community Profile. This chapter discusses Stanton's history, physical setting and land use, demographics, and other important community characteristics.
Chapter 3: Hazard Assessment. This chapter identifies and describes the hazards that pose a threat to Stanton and discusses past and future events and the effects of climate change.
Chapter 4: Vulnerability Assessment. This chapter describes each hazard's threat to Stanton’s key facilities and community members, including socially vulnerable individuals.
Chapter 5: Mitigation Strategy. This chapter lists the mitigation actions to reduce Stanton’s vulnerability to hazard events and provides an overview of the community's existing capabilities to improve hazard resilience.
Chapter 6: Plan Maintenance. This chapter summarizes implementing, monitoring, and updating the LHMP and opportunities for continued public involvement.
PREVIOUS STANTON LHMP
This is the City of Stanton’s first LHMP and opens eligibility, once approved and adopted, to apply for FEMA grants for hazard mitigation projects and monetary relief during emergency situations.
PLAN GOALS
This Plan was developed to broadly increase resilience in Stanton. The following new key goals were developed for the City's 2022 LHMP:
• Protect against threats from natural hazards to life, injury, and property damage for Stanton residents and visitors.
• Increase public awareness of potential hazard events. • Preserve critical services and functions by protecting key facilities and infrastructure. • Protect natural systems from current and future conditions.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
4 • Coordinate mitigation activities among City departments, neighboring jurisdictions, and with federal agencies.
• Prepare for long-term changes in hazard regimes.
These goals were designed and voted on by the Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee to reflect Stanton’s current priorities. These goals will set the tone for Stanton’s first ever LHMP and will help to guide future updates to the plan. Future updates will consider community growth, allow for anticipated new development in the City, changes to City policies, and the evolution of City priorities and goals. These goals also ensure greater consistency with the City's General Plan Safety Element and priorities over the next five years.
PLANNING PROCESS
State and federal guidance for LHMPs does not require that jurisdictions follow a standardized planning process. FEMA encourages communities to create a planning process that reflects local values, goals, and characteristics. FEMA does suggest a general planning process that follows the steps identified below:
For the City of Stanton, the planning process used to create this plan is described below.
Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee
The City established a Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee (hereafter referred to as the Committee).
The Committee comprises representatives from key City departments and stakeholder members that include representatives from local and regional agencies and companies that are key to hazard mitigation activities. Stakeholders invited from local agencies and neighboring jurisdictions include Southern California Edison, Southern California Gas Company, Orange County Public Works, Orange County Emergency Management Division, as well as the neighboring Cities of Garden Grove, Anaheim, Cypress, Identify the planning
and the resources it
contains
Build the planning
team
Create an outreach
team
Identify the risks and
threats to the
community
Review the
community's
capabilities
Develop a hazard
mitigation strategy
Review and adopt
the plan
Implement the plan
to create a safe and
resilient community
Keep the plan
current
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
5 and Buena Park. All prospective members were invited to the hazard mitigation planning committee via email and/or phone call by the HMPC leader.
Table 1-1 identifies the members who were invited and attended Committee meetings.
TABLE 1-1: STANTON HAZARD MITIGATION PLANNING COMMITTEE Name Title Department
Jarad Hildenbrand
(No longer with City)
City Manager City Manager's Office
Hannah Shin- Heydorn City Manager City Manager’s Office Jason Huynh Management Analyst City Manager's Office
James Wren Director Public Safety
Jose De La Torre Code Enforcement Officer Public Safety Zenia Bobadilla Director Community Services
Ashley Cain Community Service Manager Community Services Joseph Ames Director Public Works
Scott Jensen Public Works Manager Public Works
Michelle Bannigan Director Finance
Jennifer Lilley Director Community & Economic
Development
Aneli Gonzalez Planning Technician Community Development (Planning) Jennifer Zambrano Permit Technician Community Development (Building) Cynthia Guzman Human Resources Manager Human Resources and Risk Management
Cruz Alday Captain Orange County Sheriff's Dept.
Mike Petro Division 7 Chief Orange County Fire Authority Jeff Cole Orange County Sheriff's Dept
Bryan Mahon Battalion Chief: B Shift Orange County Fire Authority Aaron Pfannenstiel LHMP Project Manager Atlas Planning Solutions Crystal Stueve LHMP Planner Atlas Planning Solutions
Robert Jackson LHMP Planner Atlas Planning Solutions
* Denotes invitees that did not attend meetings.
The Committee held three meetings throughout the plan development process to lay out the methods and approach for the Plan, draft and review content, make revisions, and engage members of the public.
Committee Meeting #1 (August 24, 2021): The Committee members confirmed the Committee members' project goals and responsibilities. They revised the community engagement and outreach strategy, confirmed and prioritized the hazards included in the Plan, and identified critical threat assessment facilities.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
6 Committee Meeting #2 (December 1, 2021): Members held a detailed discussion about the hazard prioritization, results of the hazards assessment and mapping, and the risk assessment that showed the areas, populations, and assets facing elevated risk and vulnerability.
Committee Meeting #3 (January 11, 2022): The Committee discussed and reviewed mitigation actions and strategies, made revisions, and assigned priorities.
Invitationsto Committee meetings, and agendas/materials, were provided via email. Appendix A contains copies of invitations, meeting agendas, sign-in sheets, and other relevant materials distributed for these meetings.
Public Engagement
Under FEMA guidelines, local hazard mitigation planning processes should create opportunities for the public to be involved in plan development—at a minimum, during the initial drafting stage and plan approval. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic in-person, public workshops and meetings were replaced with virtual workshops, meetings, and discussion groups for health and safety reasons. Several key activities pertaining to the LHMP include the following:
Online Engagement
LetsTalkStanton provides a better look into Stanton’s very first Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) project. The site is home to a description of the project and how an LHMP benefits the community, a list of frequently asked questions with links to the answers, as well as access to the Hazard Mitigation Plan Survey available in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese. Using the survey link, the community members of Stanton were able to provide valuable data and personal experiences with natural and human-caused hazards in the City; this data was then used in the drafting the LHMP.
Online Survey
The City released an online survey to community members to gather feedback on the planning process and hazards of concern. The City received 17 responses from community members and stakeholders during the survey period. Responses were received from all zip codes and areas within Stanton, ensuring that geographically, the entire City was represented. Based on these responses, the following information was shared with the City:
• The top three hazards of concern for Stanton and their individual communities, rank seismic hazards (earthquakes) as the overall greatest hazard of concern, followed closely by power failure, and extreme heat events.
• Over 88% of respondents are concerned that earthquakes can affect the city, with approximately 35% indicating they have been affected by this hazard at their residence. • Over 64% of respondents are concerned that climate change may create new hazardous situations in Stanton or worsen existing natural hazards. • Approximately 41% of respondents believe that climate change has already impacted their health, property, livelihood, and overall wellbeing, about 47% believe that climate change will affect them in the next 5-20 years, while the remaining 11% believe that climate change will not affect them in their lifetime.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
7 • About 53% of respondents have taken steps to make their homes less vulnerable to hazards such as earthquakes, floods, and fires. These same respondents are confident that these actions will be sufficient to protect against more severe hazards that are expected because of climate change.
The results from the survey were provided to the HMPC. The data was then analyzed, reviewed, and incorporated by the HMPC within the LHMP content. The data provided by the survey presented unique local insight into hazard concerns, and assessed the overall opinion and perception of the public when it comes to the hazards that affect Stanton. The survey results are also provided within Appendix B of the LHMP, including the survey questions and answers.
City of Stanton Halloween Festival 2021
On October 30th, 2021, the City held its annual Halloween Festival at Stanton Central Park. The consultant firm Atlas Planning Solutions had the opportunity to set up an information booth introducing the community to Stanton’s first ever Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. Members of the community had the chance to engage with the consultants and learn about the LHMP planning process,the hazards of concern within the city, ask questions, and provide valuable feedback for the hazard mitigation planning committee.
Public Review Draft
On July 12, 2022, the City released a draft copy of the LHMP for public review and comment. The document was posted electronically on the LetsTalkStanton website. The City distributed notifications about the public review draft through social media accounts and other online sources. The Public Review Draft period extended from July 12, 2022, through August 12, 2022.
Plan Revision and Adoption
During the public review period, the City did not receive any public comments on the plan. Following public comment, the City submitted the plan to Cal OES and FEMA, initiating their review process. Upon completing this review process, City staff transmitted the final plan to the City Council for final adoption.
The Stanton City Council adopted the final LHMP on January 24, 2023. Appendix C contains a copy of the adoption resolution.
Plan Resources
The City used several different plans, studies, technical reports, datasets, and other resources to prepare the Plan's hazard assessment, mapping, threat assessment, and other components. Table 1-2 provides some of the primary resources the Committee used to prepare this Plan.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
8 TABLE 1-2: KEY RESOURCES FOR PLANNING DEVELOPMENT
Section Key Resources Reviewed Data Incorporated from
Resources
Multiple • Cal-Adapt
• California Department of Conservation
• California Geological Survey
• California Office of Emergency Services
• California State Hazard Mitigation Plan
• City of Stanton General Plan
• FEMA Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Guidance
• National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration
• National Weather Service
• US Geological Survey
• US Census Bureau 2015-2019 American
Community Survey
• Orange County Vulnerability
Assessment
• Orange County Hazard Mitigation Plan
• Science and background
information on different hazard
conditions
• Records of past disaster events
in and around Stanton
• Current and anticipated climate
conditions in and around
Stanton
• Projections of future seismic
conditions and events
Community Profile • US Census Bureau 2015-2019 American Community Survey
• City of Stanton Existing Condition
Reports:
• Noise and Vibration Existing Conditions
Report
• Air Quality Existing Conditions Report
• Economic and Market Trends Existing
Condition Report
• Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Climate
Change Vulnerability Assessment
Existing Conditions Report
• Community Mobility Existing Condition
Report
• California Energy Commission
• Demographic information for
Stanton and Orange County
• History of the region
• Economic trends in Stanton
• Commute patterns in Stanton
• Local land-use patterns
• Background information on
utilities serving Stanton
• Current Climate information in
Stanton
•
Hazard Assessment
(Flood Hazards, includes
Dam Failure)
• FEMA Map Service Center
• Orange County Flood Control District
• Metropolitan Water District of Southern
California
• US Army Corps of Engineers
• California Department of Water
Resources
• Records of past flood events in
and around Stanton
• Locations of flood-prone areas
in Stanton
• Mapping of dam failure
inundation areas
• Profiles and conditions of dams
in and around Stanton
Hazard Assessment
(Human-Caused Hazards)
• Global Terrorism Database • Historical records of terrorism Hazard Assessment
(Hazardous Materials
Release)
• Department of Toxic Substances and
Control
• Environmental Protection Agency
• Location and dates of past
hazardous materials release
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
9 • Effects of hazardous materials
release
Hazard Assessment
(Seismic Hazards)
• Southern California Earthquake Data
Center
• The Third California Earthquake Rupture
Forecast (UCERF3)
• California Geological Survey
• Location of fault zones
• Records of past earthquakes
Hazard Assessment
(Severe Weather
Hazards)
• Cal Adapt
• California Department of Water
Resources
• US Drought Monitor
• Western Regional Climate Center
• Historic drought information
• Current drought conditions
• Science and background
information on extreme
weather events
• Historical record of extreme
weather events in and
around Stanton
Note: Sections that are not individually called out in this table relied primarily on sources identified in multiple sections.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
10 Page Left Intentionally Blank
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
11 CHAPTER 2 – COMMUNITY PROFILE
The Community Profile section of the LHMP describes Stanton, including information about the community's physical setting, history, economy and demographics, current and future land uses, and key infrastructure. The Community Profile helps establish the baseline conditions in Stanton, which inform the development of the hazard mitigation strategies and actions in Chapter 5.
SETTING AND LOCATION
Stanton is located in northwestern Orange County and
encompasses roughly 3.1 square miles. The population,
according to the US Census, in 2019 was 38,377. It is
bordered by the cities of Cypress to the west, Anaheim to the north and east, and Garden Grove to the east and
south, and several county islands.
The City experiences an average of 278 sunny days per
year, compared to a national average of 205 days. There is rarely any recorded snowfall in Stanton, ranking it as one of the least snowy places in California. Stanton
experiences roughly 13.3 inches of rain every year,
compared to the national average of 38.1 inches per year.
The average temperature in Stanton ranges between 70-
85°F for most of the year.
3 Stanton was recently named one of the safest cities to live in California. According to the Safewise database, Stanton was the 46th safest city in California in 2021. 4 The City has been extremely successful in improving the quality of everyday life for its residents. Using strategic revitalization programs has been a crucial element in revitalizing the commercial and residential areas of the city. Major new developments have been brought to the City, which promises to sustain the City for years to come. 5 The City’s motto – Community Pride and Forward Vision, is embodied by the work of Stanton City Departments, which has contributed to making Stanton a better place to live, work, and play.
HISTORY
The area where Stanton is located today began as one of the largest land grants in the history of California, comprising over 300,000 acres of land. This land grant was initially given to Manuel Perez Nieto, granting stewardship over Rancho Los Coyotes and Rancho Los Alamitos. However, the padres of Mission San Gabriel protested the grant, and roughly half of the land Nieto was granted was awarded to the church.
Following his death in 1804, the land came under the stewardship of his son Juan Jose Nieto, who eventually sold off a portion of the land called Rancho Los Alamitos (28,000 acres) for $500 an acre to Governor Jose Figueroa. Rancho Los Alamitos eventually came into the possession of Don Able Stearns in 1842, purchased for $6,000 from the governor.
3 https://www.bestplaces.net/climate/city/california/stanton 4 https://www.safewise.com/blog/safest-cities-california/ 5 https://www.stantonca.gov/community/history.php Money Magazine ranked Stanton 42nd on its "Best
Places to Live" list in 2006.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
12 As the century changed, so did transportation to and from the city (then known as Benedict), with the Pacific Electric Railway beginning operations in the area in 1906. This gave the population a direct line to Los Angeles for business and allowed the Stearns Rancho Corporation to transport buyers to the area.
Within several years the train was so busy that two cars were needed to run both ways, and four cars were necessary on the weekends. By 1928, it was a portion of the railway’s thousand-mile system which provided a convenient mode of travel throughout Orange and Los Angeles Counties.
In 1911, Benedict changed its name to Stanton. The city was named after former Speaker of the California Assembly, Assemblyman Philip Stanton. Stanton was responsible for blocking the legislation proposed by the City of Anaheim, which would have turned the western area around the city into a sewage farm. This was accomplished by the incorporation of the city in May of 1911. Stanton remained incorporated until 1924, when they “disincorporated” to allow the State to build road infrastructure in the territory, avoiding the costs that the city would have incurred. Following World War II, the Orange County area experienced a population boom, and large swathes of land were being annexed by neighboring cities. To avoid being swallowed up and absorbed, Stanton decided to re-incorporate and voted to incorporate Stanton once again officially on June 4th, 1956.
DEMOGRAPHICS
Race/Ethnicity/Age
The data used in this section comes from the most comprehensive American Community Survey (ACS), administered by the United States Census Bureau (U.S. Census) released in 2019 and the California Department of Finance (DOF). According to the ACS, the 2019 population was estimated to be 38,377, with a median age of 34.9. This median age is 3.2 years younger than the Orange County median age of
38.1. Table 2-1 identifies the race/ethnicity and age demographics for both the City and Orange County, which indicates that the percentage of senior residents (aged 65 and older) in the City is 2.3 % less than the rest of Orange County. Additionally, a slightly larger proportion of Stanton's residents rent their housing 49.4%, compared to Orange County residents 42.6%.
Stanton, like most surrounding communities, is predominantly a family community. In both Stanton and Orange County, about two-thirds of households are families. At 3.38 persons per household, the average household size in Stanton is higher than the national average and .37 higher than Orange County's average household size of 3.01 persons per household. Both Stanton and the wider region have a similar mix of age groups Table 2-1.
In terms of its racial and ethnic composition, Stanton's majority race as a population is Hispanic or Latino at 47.8%. The second-largest population is Asian or Pacific Islander, with 30.1% of all residents. White, non-Hispanics come in as the third-largest population at 18.1%. As an ethnically diverse community, Hispanic or Latino residents comprise the largest ethnic group, followed by White-non-Hispanic, White, Asian, and Black residents Table 2-1.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
13 TABLE 2-1: RACE/ETHNICITY AND AGE IN STANTON AND ORANGE COUNTY, 2015-2019 Stanton Orange County
Number Share Number Share
Race and Ethnicity
White, non-Hispanic 6,932 18.1% 1,285,855 40.6%
Black or African American,
non-Hispanic
439 1.1% 51,269 1.6%
American Indian and
Alaska Native alone
265 0.7% 6,116 0.2%
Asian or Pacific Islander,
non-Hispanic
11,547 30.1% 651,876 20.6%
Hispanic or Latino 18,341 47.8% 1,078,726 34%
All other races, nonHispanic94 0.2% 6,032 0.2%
Two or more races, nonHispanic759 2% 88,170 2.8%
Total 38,377 100% 3,168,044 100%
Age
Under 18 9,802 25% 704,508 22.2%
18 to 24 3,452 10% 295,112 9.4%
25 to 44 11,181 29% 868,512 27.4%
45 to 64 9,293 24% 844,807 26.7%
65 and over 4,649 12% 455,105 14.3%
Total 38,377 100% 3,168,044 100%
Note: Percentage values are rounded to the nearest tenth decimal.
Sources: American Community Survey, 2015-2019
Language
The City has a range of non-English languages spoken at home among its residents, with varying proficiency levels. Generally, Spanish, and Asian languages are the second most-spoken languages in Stanton. Table 2-2 shows the most widely spoken languages in the home other than English and in what percentage.
TABLE 2-2: LANGUAGES OTHER THAN ENGLISH SPOKEN AT HOME
Language Percentage of Limited-English Population
Spanish 41%
Asian and Pacific Islander languages 24.7%
Other Indo-European Languages 1.3%
Total Limited-English Population 10,988
Source: American Community Survey, 2015-2019
*Note: This is a snapshot of those who speak a non-English language; therefore, these percentages will not add up to 100%.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
14 Education
Stanton's residents have lower educational attainment levels and lower incomes than Orange County. Approximately 20% of Stanton residents have bachelor's degrees or above, compared with 40% in Orange County (Figure 2-1). The City's median household income is approximately $32,000 lower than incomes throughout Orange County (Figure 2-2).
ECONOMY AND COMMUTE PATTERNS
Employment and commute patterns of Stanton residents and employees within the City focus on where jobs are located and where employees travel to and from for work. Commute patterns rely on the match
27.2%
26.1%
18.8%
8.1%
14.7%
5.1%
14.5%
17.2%
19.9%
7.7%
26.2%
14.5%
0.0% 5.0% 10.0% 15.0% 20.0% 25.0% 30.0%
Less than High School, no deploma
High School or equivalent
Some College, no degree
Associate’s degree
Bachelor’s degree
Graduate or professional degree
Educational Attainment for Population Over 25
Orange County Stanton
Source: U.S. Census American Community Survey, 2015-2019 FIGURE 2-1: EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT FOR POPULATION OVER 25 YEARS OF AGE IN STANTON AND THE ORANGE COUNTY, 2015-2019
$57,598
$90,234
$75,235
$62,843
$-
$20,000
$40,000
$60,000
$80,000
$100,000
Stanton Orange County California United States
Median Household Income
Sources: U.S. Census American Community Survey, 2015-2019 FIGURE 2-2:MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME IN STANTON AND THE ORANGE COUNTY, 2015-2019 City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
15 between residents' jobs and skill levels and the job opportunities currently found in Stanton. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Stanton had approximately 7,800 jobs and 17,200 employed residents. As illustrated in Table 2-3, meaning the City had a ratio of 0.45 jobs per employed resident (prior to COVID-19), though only 518 (6.6%) of residents both lived and worked in Stanton. This means the City is supplying jobs primarily to employees from outside of the City, and that most residents commute outside of the City for work.
TABLE 2-3: STANTON EMPLOYMENT OVERVIEW*
Jobs located in Stanton 7,812
Employed Residents in Stanton 17,186
Jobs / Employed Resident 0.45
Share of Residents also Working in Stanton 518 (3%)
*Note: Currently employed residents over the age of 25.
Sources: U.S. Census Longitudinal Employer-Household Dynamics, 2019 The five largest employers within the City are Rowntree Gardens, The Home Depot, Super King Market, CR Transfer Inc., and Great Scott Tree Service (Table 2-4). These employers account for approximately 11% of the total jobs located within the City.
Before the stay-at-home measures, 97% of resident workers commuted to nearby communities or employment centers,
primarily in Anaheim, Irvine, Los Angeles, and Santa Ana. The majority of employees not living in Stanton commute from Anaheim, Garden Grove, Santa Ana, Los Angeles, and Buena Park. While these commute patterns identify the past
commute trends, the effects of COVID-19 reduced commute volumes; however, it is not clear if these changes are
temporary or a more lasting shift as remote working
continues.
TABLE 2-4: LARGEST EMPLOYERS IN STANTON AS OF 2021
Employer Number of Employees Percentage of Employment
Located in Stanton*
Rowntree Gardens 334 4.3%
The Home Depot 165 2.1%
Super King Market 128 1.6%
CR Transfer Inc. 122 1.6%
Great Scott Tree Service 122 1.6%
Source: City of Stanton, Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for FY Ending June 30, 2021. *Totals rounded to nearest tenth percentage
Rowntree Gardens is the largest employer within
Stanton
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
16 DEVELOPMENT TRENDS
Stanton is located within a dense part of central Orange County that has experienced significant growth and development over the past 50 years. During this period, population growth has accounted for nearly 20,000 new residents. Since the early 2000s, the population has grown by approximately 700. Figure 2-3 shows population growth for the City between 1970 through 2020.
According to the 2021-2029 City of Stanton Housing Element Update, the City has a state housing development requirement of 1,231 units as identified by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) and its required Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) for 2021 through 2029 (Table 2-5). The goal of the RHNA is to ensure a fair distribution of housing needs among the SCAG region so that every community provides a mix of housing for all economic segments. The City’s progress to date includes 540 units that have been constructed, are under construction or have received building permits since June 30, 2021. The City also has an additional 413 units that have been approved/entitled. Stanton has 282 units remaining to be accommodated and according to the report, can be adequately accommodated. 6 For an in-depth breakdown of Stanton’s RHNA requirement, please see section 5, Resources, of the Stanton 2021-2029 Housing Element Background Report of the General Plan. 6 City of Stanton 2021-2029 Housing Element Background Report. 18,200
23,700
30,500
37,400 37,900 38,100
0 5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
25,000
30,000
35,000
40,000
45,000
1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030
Population Growth
FIGURE 2-3: POPULATIONGROWTHOF STANTON, 1970 TO 2020
Source: World Population Review, Stanton CA
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
17 TABLE 2-5: CITY OF STANTON REGIONAL HOUSING NEEDS ALLOCATION (RHNA) 2021-2029 Income Group Total Housing Units Allocated Percentage of Units Extremely/Very Low 165 13%
Low 145 12%
Moderate 231 19%
Above Moderate 690 56%
Total 1,231 100%
Source: City of Stanton 2021-2029 Housing Element Background Report
INFRASTRUCTURE ASSESSMENT
Infrastructure plays a vital role in mitigating the effects of hazard events. When infrastructure fails, it can exacerbate the effects of a hazard event or create complications for rescue workers trying to reach victims. For example, fallen utility poles resulting from strong winds or seismic activity can obstruct roadways and prevent emergency vehicles from reaching affected areas. The following are Stanton's electrical, gas, water and wastewater, and infrastructure transportation networks.
Electricity
Stanton receives its electrical supply from Southern California Edison (SCE). There is one substation located within the City, the Barre Substation (three additional substations are located just outside of the city limits in Anaheim, Garden Grove, and Westminster), as well as a peaker plant to provide additional power when demand exceeds normal thresholds, all of which connect the 220kV and 66kV powerlines that run east to west and north to south.
7 These lines bring power to Stanton and the surrounding cities and connect to other regional power sources. These connections help Stanton access auxiliary electricity sources should any of its immediate infrastructure fail. However, should the power grid experience a more substantial regional failure, this could disrupt power transmission to Stanton for an extended period until power is restored.
Public Safety Power Shutoff
The State's investor-owned utilities have general authority to shut off the electric power to protect public safety under California law. Utilities exercise this authority during severe wildfire threat conditions as a last resort preventative measure through Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) 8 , which were first
implemented in 2018. These incidents typically occur during high fire threat conditions (i.e., dry conditions and strong winds) and may affect communities located far away from any actively occurring fires. Stanton is far removed from the cities where these PSPS circuits are located; however, residents and businesses could experience the impacts of these events if a larger regional event should occur.
Natural Gas
The Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas) provides natural gas to Stanton and surrounding jurisdictions. To ensure sufficient transmission of natural gas throughout the region, SoCalGas owns and operates transmission linesthroughout Orange County. These main pipelines run east to west to the north 7 California Energy Commission (CEC), https://www.arcgis.com/home/webmap/viewer.html?useExisting=1 8 California Public Utilities Commission. 2020. Public Safety Power Shutoff information. https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/wildfiresinfo/ City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
18 and the south of the city. If these lines are damaged, there is a potential to interrupt the flow and delivery of natural gas throughout the City and region. Additionally, natural gas ignites very easily. Any rupture in a transmission line could cause additional damage to properties in the vicinity of the leak due to fire from the escaped natural gas. The presence of this infrastructure creates unique challenges for the City from an emergency management perspective. The inclusion of hazards associated with damage to this infrastructure is an important element of an effective response to future incidents involving natural gas use and transmission. 9
Water Service and Wastewater Treatment
Golden State Water Company provides water in Stanton (GSWC), West Orange County System (WOCS), and the service area covers the entire City boundary. Water supplies provided by WOCS are a mixture of local groundwater and imported water. Groundwater supplies are sourced from the Orange County Groundwater Basin and its 21 county wells. The local county wells have historically provided 85% of the water supply used by WOCS; the imported water is sourced and purchased from the Colorado River Aqueduct and State Water Project via the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California. GSWC has over 200 groundwater wells in its service area throughout the state.
The wastewater treatment for the city of Stanton is provided by the Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD). OCSD is a public agency that provides wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal services for approximately 2.6 million people in central and northwest Orange County. OCSD is a special district governed by a Board of Directors consisting of 25 board members appointed from 20 cities, 2 sanitary districts, 2 water districts, and 1 representative from the Orange County Board of Supervisors. OCSD has two operating facilities that treat wastewater from residential, commercial, and industrial sources. OCSD has two treatment plants serving the city of Stanton:
Reclamation Plant No. 1 in Fountain Valley and Treatment Plan No. 2 in Huntington Beach. Average flows for
Reclamation Plant No. 1 and Treatment Plan No. 2 are 81 million gallons per day (mgd) and 151 mgd, respectively. The combined average flow is 232 mgd. The Public Works
Department’s Sewer Maintenance Program maintains and
operates the sanitary sewer collection system. The Sewer Maintenance Program practices preventative maintenance
activities such as continual monitoring and maintenance of the entire system and hydraulic cleaning of the main lines.
In addition, the city now operates the portions of the city’s sewer system that was previously operated by Orange
County Water District and the Garden Grove Sanitation
District. 10
9 City of Stanton, https://www.stantonca.gov/community/moving_to_stanton/index.php 10 City of Stanton General Plan 5-8, Water and Wastewater Orange County Sanitation District Service Area. OC
San Map
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
19 Transportation System and Context
The City of Stanton has convenient access to local and regional transportation facilities, including freeways, arterial roadways, and access to Metrolink commuter rail connections in nearby neighboring cities Buena Park and Anaheim. The five major freeways surrounding the City include Interstates 5 and 605, CA State Routes 22, 39, and 91. Interstate 5 (I-5) is east of the City (about 3.5-4 miles), connecting Los Angeles County to the northwest and San Diego County to the southeast, with the SR-91 north of the city. Interstate 605 (I-605) runs west of the city (about 4.5 - 5 miles) and provides access to Los Angeles County; it also intersects with both SR-22 and SR-91. SR-22 is directly south of the city at the most southern part of the city limits. SR-39, also known as Beach Blvd, bisects the City connecting SR-22 to SR-91, serving as the primary north/south route through the City. Finally, SR-91 lies about 3 miles north of the City and is easily accessible from SR-39 Beach Blvd and provides a direct route to the Inland Empire and Riverside County. Stanton is located between Cypress to the west, Anaheim to the north and east, and Garden Grove to the east and south.
Public transportation via fixed-route bus services is provided by the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) bus service, which is the public transportation agency in Orange County. OCTA operates five bus routes within the City which connect Stanton to the surrounding cities of Fullerton, Huntington Beach, Brea, Long Beach, Orange, and Garden Grove. OCTA also provides a service called OCTA Access Transportation for seniors and others who cannot use the fixed-route bus services on their own. They will provide transportation to and from medical appointments, shopping, and even social visits. The ride program is organized by registering with OCTA or the Stanton Parks and Recreation Services and scheduling the ride.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
20 Page Left Intentionally Blank
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
21 CHAPTER 3 – HAZARD ASSESSMENT
This chapter discusses the types of hazards that might reasonably occur in Stanton. It describes these hazards and how they are measured, locations in Stanton where they may occur, a history of these hazards in and around Stanton, and the future risk they pose. The discussion of future risks includes any changes to the frequency, intensity, and/or location of these hazards due to climate change. This chapter also discusses how the Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee (HMPC) selected and prioritized this plan's hazards.
HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
FEMA guidance identifies several hazards that communities should evaluate for inclusion in a hazard mitigation plan. Communities may also consider additional hazards for their plans. The HMPC reviewed an extensive list of hazards and excluded those that do not pose a threat to Stanton. Table 3-1 lists the hazards considered and explains the reasoning for inclusion/exclusion. For context, this table also shows if a hazard is recommended for consideration by FEMA, if it is included in the 2018 California State Hazard Mitigation Plan (SHMP), and if it is included in the Orange County Hazard Mitigation Plan (OC HMP).
TABLE 3-1: HAZARD EVALUATION FOR STANTON LHMP
Hazard Recommended for
Consideration
Included in
LHMP?
Reason for Inclusion or Exclusion
Agricultural
Pests
SHMP No While agricultural uses were a key element of
the City when it was first developed, the City no
longer contains a significant amount of these
resources that could be vulnerable to
agricultural pests.
Air Pollution SHMP No Air pollution is a state and regional issue addressed through plans and regulations
administered by the South Coast Air Quality
Management District and/or California Air
Resources Board. Although air quality is a
concern of the City, Stanton has no authority to
mitigate air pollution.
Aircraft Incident SHMP No The City is not located near any major airports.
Given the lack of past incidents associated with
aircraft, the HMPC determined this hazard
should not be included in the plan.
Aquatic Invasive
Species
SHMP No There are no major bodies of water in Stanton
where aquatic invasive species could endanger
the community.
Avalanche FEMA guidance
SHMP
No Stanton is not located within potential
avalanche zones.
Civil Disturbance
or Riot
SHMP No The City of Stanton has no real history of civil disturbances or riots in its past. The HMPC felt
this was not a concern for the city.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
22 Climate Change SHMP
OC HMP
Yes Climate change is a concern of the HMPC, which
is discussed as a function of each relevant
hazard and is mentioned throughout the LHMP.
Coastal Flooding
and Storm
FEMA guidance
SHMP
No Stanton is not located along the coast of
California. Coastal flooding and storms are not
anticipated to impact the community.
Cyber Threats SHMP Yes With the increase in cyber threats occurring throughout California and the nation, the HMPC
considers them serious, requiring evaluation
within the LHMP.
Dam Failure /
Inundation
FEMA guidance
SHMP
SBC HMP
Yes Given the potential for the complete failure of
Prado Dam and the inundation that could impact
the community, the HMPC identified dam
failure/inundation as a hazard of concern.
Drought SHMP
OC HMP
Yes The HMPC identified droughts as a recurring and
potentially severe hazard in Stanton.
Energy Shortage SHMP No Southern California Edison serves as the electrical utility provider for Stanton, which is
outside of the City's control. While energy
shortage is a concern for the City and State, the
HMPC did not identify this hazard as a concern
that should be included in the LHMP. A
discussion of Public Safety Power Shutoff
concerns is included in this plan as it is closely
related to Severe Weather and Wildfires which
occur in the region.
Epidemic,
Pandemic,
Vector-Borne
Disease
SHMP No Stanton is in Orange County, which has
experienced several regional and global healthrelated incidents in the past. The City supports the County Department of Public Health as the
jurisdictional agency for public health
emergencies. The City will continue to work
closely and seek guidance from County, State,
and Federal partners to combat these types of
hazard events. Therefore, it was not deemed a
hazard that should be addressed in the LHMP.
However, public health emergencies are an issue
that is included in the City's emergency
management planning efforts.
Erosion FEMA guidance
SHMP
No Erosion was not identified as an issue within the
City that should be addressed in the LHMP.
Expansive Soil FEMA guidance No Expansive soils were not identified as an issue within the City that should be addressed in the
LHMP. The City requires compliance with the
California Building Code and site-specific
geotechnical report, which is equipped to
mitigate issues associated with expansive soils.
Extreme Cold FEMA guidance
SHMP
No Temperatures in Stanton do not fall to a level
that would be considered a danger to public
safety.
Extreme Heat FEMA guidance
SHMP
Yes Extreme heat has occurred in Stanton and is
expected to be an increasingly recurring issue
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
23 due to climate change. As a result, this hazard
was included in the LHMP.
Fault Rupture FEMA guidance
SHMP
OC HMP
No The City contains no known Alquist-Priolo
Special Study Zones. Several regional AlquistPriolo faults are located near the City and could cause powerful seismic hazards should an
earthquake occur along one of them. Given that
no faults are located within the City, this seismic
hazard was not identified as a concern to the
City.
Flooding FEMA guidance
SHMP
OC HMP
Yes Several dams and basins are located within the
region, and the entire City is located within
FEMA-designated flood hazard zones. Significant
flooding events have occurred in the past, which
have affected properties. Given the proximity to
the Santa Ana River watershed and Prado Dam,
flooding is still a key concern within the City.
Fracking SHMP No Fracking does not occur in Stanton.
Hail FEMA guidance No Hail that is severe enough to pose a threat to people and property is too rare in Stanton to be
included.
Hazardous
Materials
release
SHMP
OC HMP
Yes The presence of hazardous material use,
storage, manufacturing, disposing, and transport
was identified as a concern for the HMPC.
Several major roadways, freeways, and rail lines
transecting the City allow for transporting these
materials that could endanger the community if
a release into the environment were to occur.
Hurricane FEMA guidance
SHMP
No Hurricanes do not occur in Stanton.
Infrastructure
Failure
SHMP No Infrastructure failure can pose a threat to people and property in Stanton. A discussion of
infrastructure failure is discussed as a function of
other hazards, where applicable.
Earthquake
Induced
Landslide
FEMA guidance
SHMP
No There are not areas within the City of Stanton
considered to have a high potential for
earthquake-induced landslides. As a result, this
hazard is not included in the LHMP.
Levee Failure SHMP No The HMPC did not identify levee failure as a hazard of concern.
Lightning FEMA guidance No Although lightning occasionally occurs in Stanton, it does not pose a significant threat to
people or property.
Liquefaction FEMA guidance
SHMP
Yes Small portions of the City are located within
potential liquefaction areas, identifying a
concern of the HMPC. This hazard has been
included as part of the Seismic Hazards profile.
Methanecontaining SoilsNo The City does not have methane-containing soils that pose a threat to residents' and businesses'
public health and safety.
Natural Gas
Pipeline Hazards
SHMP No Natural gas pipelines exist within the City and could pose a danger to people and property if
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
24 they were to breach and release their contents
into the community. They were not identified as
a hazard of concern by the HMPC.
Oil Spills SHMP No There is no history of oil drilling and extraction within the City. Based on this, the HMPC did not
think this hazard needed to be addressed.
Power Failure Yes Power failure was identified as a key hazard of concern by the HMPC, the LHMP does discuss
Public Safety Power Shutoff concerns within the
LHMP.
Radiological
Accidents
SHMP No There are no known significant radiation sources in Stanton or the immediate surrounding area
that could pose a severe threat to the
community.
Sea-level Rise FEMA guidance
SHMP
No Stanton is not located along the State's coastal
portions where sea-level rise is a concern.
Seiche FEMA guidance
SHMP
No There are no major bodies of water in Stanton
that could be subjected to seiche.
Seismic Shaking FEMA guidance
SHMP
OC HMP
Yes Stanton is in a seismically active area; several
major fault lines run within and around the City,
where shaking can be severe enough to damage
property or cause loss of life. For this reason, the
HMPC determined it should be addressed in this
Plan as a primary concern.
Severe Wind FEMA guidance No Severe wind is a common occurrence within the Southern California. Severe wind events typically
occur during Santa Ana wind conditions.
However, the HMPC felt it is not a concern in
Stanton and not included in the LHMP.
Severe Weather FEMA guidance
SHMP
OC HMP
No Severe Weather includes discussions regarding
extreme heat, drought, and severe wind which
are weather-related hazards most common in
Southern California. Extreme heat and drought
are both covered in separate profiles.
Storm Surge FEMA guidance No Stanton is not a coastal community where storm surge is a concern.
Subsidence FEMA guidance No Subsidence is not a significant concern identified by the HMPC.
Mass-Casualty
Incident
(Terrorism)
SHMP No While the HMPC acknowledged the threat this
can pose to the city, due to the lack of past
historical events in Stanton, this was not deemed
a hazard of concern for the LHMP.
Thunderstorm SHMP No Thunderstorms that cause damage and endanger public safety are rare in the Southern
California region and were not identified by the
HMPC.
Tornadoes FEMA guidance
SHMP
No No tornadoes are known to have ever occurred
in Stanton.
Transportation
Accidents
SHMP No While transportation accidents can occur within the City, this hazard was not identified as a key
hazard of HPMC concern.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
25 Tree Mortality SHMP No The HMPC noted that the City's trees are a potential asset at risk; however, tree mortality
was not identified as a hazard of concern for the
City.
Tsunami FEMA guidance
SHMP
No Stanton is not a coastal community.
Urban Fire SHMP
OC HMP
Yes The HMPC identified urban fires as a risk to
property and life in Stanton. A discussion of this
topic is included in the wildfire section of the
document.
Volcano SHMP
SBC HMP
No There are no volcanoes near Stanton to pose a
valid threat.
Wildfire FEMA guidance
SHMP
OC HMP
No The HMPC did not identify wildfire as a major
threat to the City and is not included in the
LHMP.
After hazard evaluation and the organizational changes made by the Committee, this Plan discusses the following hazards in detail (consistent with the FEMA National Risk Index for Stanton). If the targeted hazard has a sub-category, they are listed in parenthesis:
• Seismic Hazards (Seismic Shaking,
Liquefaction)
• Power Failure
• Drought
• Extreme Heat
• Flooding
• Hazardous Materials Release
• Urban Fire
• Dam Failure
• Climate Change (Discussed in all
Relevant Hazards)
HAZARD SCORING AND PRIORITIZATION
The Committee followed FEMA guidance for hazard mitigation plans and prioritized each of the 11 hazards. The initial step assigned a score of 1 to 4 for each of the 10 hazards. The four criteria were as follows:
Probability: The likelihood that the hazard event will occur in Stanton in the future Location: The size of the area that the hazard event would affect Maximum probable extent: The severity of the direct damage of the hazard event to Stanton Secondary impacts: The severity of indirect damage of the hazard event to Stanton The Committee assigned a weighting value to each criterion, giving a higher weight to the criteria deemed more critical, and multiplied the score for each criterion by weighing the factor in determining each criterion's overall score. FEMA recommended the weighting values as follows:
• Probability: 2.0
• Location: 0.8
• Maximum probable extent: 0.7
• Secondary impacts: 0.5
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
26 Table 3-2 shows the Criterion Scoring used to assign a score for each criterion.
TABLE 3-2: CRITERION SCORING
Probability Maximum Probably Extent (Primary Impact)
The estimated likelihood of occurrence based on historical data The anticipated damage to a typical structure in the community
Probability Score Impact Score
Unlikely—less than a 1 percent chance each
year
1 Weak—little to no damage 1
Occasional—a 1 to 10 percent chance each year 2 Moderate—some damage, loss of service for days
2 Likely—a 10 to 90 percent chance each year 3 Severe—devastating damage, loss of service for months
3 Highly likely—more than a 90 percent chance
each year
4 Extreme—catastrophic damage,
uninhabitable conditions
4 Location Secondary Impact
The projected area of the community affected
by the hazard
The estimated secondary impacts to the community at
large
Affected Area Score Impact Score
Negligible—affects less than 10 percent of the
planning area.
1 Negligible—no loss of function, downtime,
and/or evacuations
1 Limited—affects 10 to 25 percent of the
planning area.
2 Limited—minimal loss of functions,
downtime, and/or evacuations
2 Significant—affects 25 to 75 percent of the
planning area.
3 Moderate—some loss of functions,
downtime, and/or evacuations
3 Extensive—affects more than 75 percent of the
planning area.
4 High—major loss of functions, downtime,
and/or evacuations
4 After calculating each hazard's total impact score (sum of the location, maximum probable extent, and the secondary impact), FEMA guidance recommends multiplying the total impact score by the overall probability of determining each hazard's final score. A final score between 0 and 12 is considered a lowthreat hazard, 12.1 to 42 is a medium-threat hazard, and a score above 42 is considered a high-threat hazard. This final score determines the prioritization of the hazards.
Table 3-3 shows each hazard's individual criterion scores, final score, and threat level based on the above prioritization process.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
27 TABLE 3-3: INDIVIDUAL CRITERION SCORES FOR THE STANTON HMPC Hazard Type* Probability Impact Total
Score
Hazard Planning
Consideration
LOCATION PRIMARY
IMPACT
SECONDARY
IMPACTS
Seismic Hazards1 4 4 4 4 64.00 High
Power Failure 4 2 2 3 36.00 Medium
Drought 3 4 2 2 33.60 Medium
Extreme Heat 3 4 2 2 33.60 Medium
Flooding 3 2 2 3 27.00 Medium
Haz Mat Release 3 2 2 3 27.00 Medium
Urban Fire 3 2 2 2 24.00 Medium
Dam Failure 1 4 4 4 16.00 Medium
* Climate Change considerations are discussed as part of each Hazard Profile identified in this table. 1 Seismic Hazard includes: Seismic Shaking, Liquefaction
HAZARD PROFILES
The following hazard profiles below discuss
the key hazards of concern identified by the
HMPC. These profiles include a description of
the hazard, discussion of the location,
magnitude/severity (extent) of potential
events, historical occurrences, and potential
for future events. In addition, each profile
includes a discussion of climate change
considerations.
Seismic Hazards
A seismic event is the result of the movement
of tectonic plates beneath the Earth’s surface.
Tectonic plates are the large
geologic formations upon which the Earth’s crust rests. Shifting in Earth’s molten rock causes the plates to move alongside boundaries called “faults.” The movement of the tectonic plates is a gradual process that occurs at an annual rate of approximately one to five inches. As the plates move past each other certain sections of the plates can become stuck to the other plate, locking the plates in place even though the plate’s kinetic energy is still pushing it forward. This creates a buildup of tension released into the crust once the plates dislodge from each other. The sudden discharge of energy into the crust is felt as Earthquakes are high-priority hazards because they are likely to happen, affect a wide area, and can be very damaging. Source Image:
from Jonathan Nourok.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
28 shaking on the surface and can lead to rupturing of land that sits on top of fault lines, liquefaction in areas with wet soil, or landslides in hilly or mountainous areas.
While no Alquist-Priolo fault zonesrun directly through Stanton, several regional Alquist-Priolo faults near the City could cause powerful seismic hazards should an earthquake occur along one of them. Seismic hazards that are likely to occur in Stanton include liquefaction and seismic shaking.
DESCRIPTION
Seismic shaking: Seismic shaking is the shaking felt on the surface caused by an earthquake. In most cases, earthquakes are not powerful enough for the shaking to be felt. However, particularly powerful earthquakes can generate significant shaking, causing widespread destruction resulting in property damage.
Liquefaction: Liquefaction occurs when seismic energy shakes an area with low-density, fine grain soil, like sand or silt, that is also saturated with water. When the shaking motion reaches these areas, it can cause these loosely packed soils to suddenly compact, making the waterlogged sediment behave more like a liquid than solid ground. During liquefaction events, the liquified soil can lose most of its stability which can cause damage to buildings and infrastructure built upon it. In severe cases, some buildings may completely collapse. Pipelines or other utility lines running through a liquefaction zone can be breached during a liquefaction event, potentially leading to flooding or the release of hazardous materials.
LOCATION AND EXTENT
Seismic Shaking: The intensity of seismic shaking occurs in relation to the amount of energy discharged by the seismic event, which is dictated by the length and depth of the fault.
The longer and nearer the surface the fault rupture is, the greater the seismic shaking. In most cases, areas nearest to the fault ruptures experience the greatest seismic shaking, while areas that are more distant experience less shaking.
Seismic shaking can damage or destroy structures leading to partial or even total collapse. The shaking of the ground can also damage or destroy underground utilities or
pipelines, potentially leading to releases of hazardous materials and flooding if water lines are breached.
Southern California is a highly seismic area because of the major faults that run through the region and is subject to experiencing seismic shaking. The intensity of seismic shaking is usually measured with the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale, which is based on the amount of observed damage. The MMI scale has replaced the Richter scale, which is no longer used since it loses effectiveness when measuring larger earthquakes. Since the degree of shaking, and consequently damage, generally decreases as the seismic energy travels further away from the fault rupture’s point of origin, different sections of a city or region can report different MMI measurements in different locations. Given Stanton’s small size, however, it is unlikely that different sections of the City would report different MMI measurements, but it is more likely that Stanton would report a different MMI measurement than a distant city in Orange County that was closer to a potential fault rupture. The MMI scale uses Roman numerals on a 12-point scale to measure each degree of shaking intensity. Table 3-4 shows the MMI scale.
Seismic shaking primarily affects unreinforced masonry
buildings, as seen here with this Long Beach middle
school damaged by the 1933 Long Beach earthquake.
Image from Los Angeles Times.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
29 TABLE 3-4: MODIFIED MERCALLI INTENSITY SCALE
Moment
Magnitude
Intensity Category Description
1.0M - 2.9M I Instrumental Felt only by a very few people, under especially favorable conditions.
3.0M - 3.9M
II Feeble Felt only by a few people at rest, especially on the upper floors of buildings.
III Slight Noticeable by people indoors, especially on upper floors, but not always recognized as an earthquake.
4.0M - 4.9M
IV Moderate Felt by many indoors and by some outdoors. Sleeping people may be awakened. Dishes, windows, and doors are disturbed
V Slightly Strong Felt by nearly everyone, and many sleeping people are awakened.
Some dishes and windows broken, and unstable objects overturned.
5.0M - 5.9M
VI Strong Felt by everyone. Some heavy furniture is moved, and there is slight damage.
VII Very Strong
Negligible damage in well-built buildings, slight to moderate damage in ordinary buildings, and considerable damage in poorly built buildings.
6.0M - 6.9M
VIII Destructive
Slight damage in well-built buildings, considerable damage and partial collapse in ordinary buildings, and great damage in poorly built buildings.
IX Ruinous
Considerable damage in specially designed structures. Great damage and partial collapse in substantial buildings, and buildings are shifted off foundations.
7.0M and
higher
X Disastrous
Most foundations and buildings with masonry or frames are destroyed, along with some well-built wood structures. Rail lines are bent
XI Very Disastrous Most or all masonry structures are destroyed, along with bridges. Rail lines are greatly bent.
XII Catastrophic Damage is total. The lines of sight are distorted, and objects are thrown into the air.
Source: United States Geological Survey. 2019. The Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale. https://earthquake.usgs.gov/learn/topics/mercalli.php Another scale for measuring seismic shaking is the moment magnitude scale (MMS, denoted Mw or simply M). The MMS measures the energy released by the fault rupture beginning at 1.0 and increasing as the earthquake's energy grows. The MMS is a logarithmic scale, meaning that the difference between numbers on the scale multiplies as they increase. An earthquake with 5.0 M is approximately 1.4 times greater than 4.9 M, 32 times greater than 4.0 M, and 1,000 times greater than 3.0 M.
Seismic shaking can also be measured in relationship to the force of Earth’s gravity (g), or percent g. This method is useful for geographically displaying areas of seismic shaking potential. Percent g is computed by determining the acceleration of the earthquake’s motion relative to the force of gravity. The acceleration of gravity is 980 centimeters per second, so if, for example, an earthquake’s acceleration is measured at 765 centimeters per second, the shaking is modeled as 765/980, or .781 g (78.1% g). Figure 3-1 shows the predicted intensity of seismic shaking in Stanton using percent g.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
30 Liquefaction: Soils must be saturated with
water for liquefaction to occur. Areas with high water
tables generally have saturated soil since the distance between the shallowest aquifer and the surface is
minimal. Areas with alluvial soils—soft sands, silts, and clays—are also susceptible to liquefaction as these soils are fine grain and generally do not bond together
well. Liquefaction events do not have a scale of
measurement; however, other factors can be used to
assess the extent of damage associated with
a liquefaction event, such as:
• Soil type
• Strength of seismic shaking around liquefaction
• Size of the affected area
• Degree of destruction because of the liquefaction
According to the California Department of Conservation Division on Mines and Geology, the entire City of Stanton is in a liquefaction hazard zone which is consistent with other northwestern Orange County cities, including Cypress, Los Alamitos, Seal Beach, and La Palma. This is due to nearly all the area’s soil consisting of sandy alluvial soil, sandy loams, and the high-water table. 11 The Orange County Shallow Aquifer is located 30 to 40 feet underneath Stanton’s surface. 12 Figure 3-2 shows the liquefaction zones in Stanton as designated by Stanton’s General Plan.
11 California Geological Survey. 1998. “Seismic Hazard Zone Report for the Los Alamitos 7.5-Minute Quadrangle, Los Angeles and Orange Counties, California.” http://gmw.conservation.ca.gov/SHP/EZRIM/Reports/SHZR/SHZR_019_Los_Alamitos.pdf 12 Orange County Water District. June 2015. “Groundwater Management Plan 2015 Update.” https://www.ocwd.com/media/3503/groundwatermanagementplan2015update_20150624.pdf Car fully submerged due to the Canterbury earthquakes
that cause liquefaction on February 23, 2011, in
Christchurch New Zealand. (Credit: nz raw)
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
31 FIGURE 3-1: SEISMIC SHAKING POTENTIAL
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
32 FIGURE 3-2 LIQUEFACTION SUSCEPTIBILITY
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
33 PAST EVENTS
Seismic shaking: While no significant earthquake has originated within Stanton or Orange County within the last 100 years, Stanton has undoubtedly felt the shaking of regional earthquakes. The nearest earthquake event to Stanton that caused significant damage throughout the Southern California region was the 1933 Long Beach earthquake which caused the deaths of 120 people and more than $50 million in property damage. 13 Since Stanton was not incorporated until 1956, the city as it is known today didn’t exist during this particular earthquake. Since the area was not overly populated, it is unknown whether residents of the present-day Stanton area experienced any damage to their property.
Most of the deaths and damage from the 1933 Long Beach Earthquake occurred because of collapsing unreinforced masonry buildings. While farmers in the area most likely felt powerful seismic shaking, it is unlikely that they experienced significant property damage as other more urbanized areas in the region reported. Other strong, regional earthquakes have occurred in the Southern California region, but their epicenters have been so distant from Stanton that seismic shaking generated by the earthquake did not cause significant property damage or harm to the City. Table 3-5 shows significant earthquakes – magnitude 6.0 Mw or greater –within 100 miles of Stanton since the beginning of the 20th century. Although there was no substantial damage in Stanton from either earthquake, authorities made disaster declarations in Orange County for the 1994 Northridge Earthquake and 1987 Whittier Narrows Earthquake. 14
Note: Since 2017 there have been no significant seismic events within 100 miles of the City.
Liquefaction: There is limited information available on the occurrence of past liquefaction events in Stanton. The nearest and most recent liquefaction event occurred near the mouth of the San Gabriel River 13 Southern California Earthquake Data Center. 2011. Significant Earthquakes and Faults, Long Beach Earthquake. http://scedc.caltech.edu/significant/longbeach1933.html 14 Federal Emergency Management Agency. 2003. California Earthquake, Aftershocks (DR-799). https://www.fema.gov/disaster/799
15 Southern California Earthquake Data Center. 2011. Earthquake Catalogs SCSN Catalog Search (1932-Present). http://service.scedc.caltech.edu/eq-catalogs/radius.php TABLE 3-5: SIGNIFICANT EARTHQUAKES (6.0+ MW) WITHIN 100 MILES OF STANTON15 Event Name Distance (Miles)* Magnitude
1918 Hemet Earthquake 58 6.8
1933 Long Beach Earthquake 13 6.3
1971 San Fernando Earthquake 48 6.5
1986 North Palm Springs Earthquake 80 6.0
1992 Joshua Tree Earthquake 97 6.3
1992 Big Bear Earthquake 72 6.7
1992 Yucca Valley 94 7.6
1994 Northridge Earthquake 42 6.7
*Distance between the epicenter and Stanton City Hall
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
34 at Alamitos Bay because of the Long Beach Earthquake in 1933. It was reported that pavement buckled, cracks appeared in the ground, and “mud volcanoes” erupted in the Los Alamitos area. 16˒ 17
RISK OF FUTURE EVENTS
Seismic shaking: Stanton is in a seismically active area with many faults in the surrounding area and region-at-large. The danger posed by any seismic shaking could damage buildings or infrastructure. It is almost inevitable that an earthquake will occur along one of the adjacent or regional fault lines and cause a major seismic event. The Third Uniform California Earthquake Rupture Forecast (UCERF3) was released in 2015 and is the most recent assessment of the probability of a major earthquake on various faults between 2015 to 2044. Table 3-6 shows the nearby and regional fault lines for Stanton.
TABLE 3-6: EARTHQUAKE PROBABILITIES FOR KEY FAULTS NEARSTANTON(2015–2044)18 Fault Distance
(Miles)*
Probability
6.7+ Mw 7.0+ Mw 7.5+ Mw 8.0+ Mw
Anaheim 1 0.09% 0.07% <0.01% Negligible
Elysian Park 5 0.01% <0.01% <0.01% Negligible
Newport-Inglewood 7 0.95% 0.81% 0.42% Negligible
Peralta Hills 7 0.23% 0.15% 0.06% Negligible
Yorba Linda 7 0.08% 0.08% 0.03% <0.01%
Richfield 7 0.02% <0.01% Negligible Negligible
San Joaquin Hills 8 0.40% 0.38% 0.24% Negligible
Compton 9 0.60% 0.47% 0.04% <0.01%
Puente Hills 9 0.66% 0.58% 0.19% Negligible
Whittier 11 0.94% 0.85% 0.48% Negligible
Palos Verdes 16 3.09% 2.79% 0.10% Negligible
San Jose 17 0.31% 0.21% 0.02% Negligible
Chino 20 0.66% 0.11% 0.06% Negligible
San Jacinto 41 1.13% 1.13% 1.12% 0.49%
San Andreas† 44 20.31% 19.50% 16.69% 6.78%
* Distance between Stanton City Hall and the nearest point of the fault. All distances are approximate. † Southern California segments only.
Note: UCERF3 results consist of two individual models (3.1 and 3.2), each of which provides rupture probabilities for each segment of the fault.
This table shows the maximum probability for a section of the fault in either model. 16 California Geological Survey. 1998. “Seismic Hazard Zone Report for the Los Alamitos 7.5-Minute Quadrangle, Los Angeles and Orange Counties, California.”
17 Federal Emergency Management Agency. 2017. California Northridge Earthquake (DR-1008). https://www.fema.gov/disaster/1008
18 Southern California Earthquake Data Center. 2011. Earthquake Catalogs SCSN Catalog Search (1932-Present). http://service.scedc.caltech.edu/eq-catalogs/radius.php City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
35 In addition to UCERF3 forecasts, which project the odds of a major earthquake on local and regional faults, the U.S. Geological Survey forecasts the severity of seismic shaking in different locations for various plausible earthquake scenarios. Table 3-7 shows the anticipated shaking in Stanton from some of these scenarios.
TABLE 3-7: SELECTED SHAKING SCENARIOS FOR STANTON19
Fault Magnitude Distance to Epicenter
(Miles)*
MMI in Stanton
NewportInglewood7.2 10 VII (Very strong) – VIII (Destructive)
7.2 11 VII (Very strong) – VIII (Destructive)
7.0 34 VI (Strong) – VII (Very strong)
Anaheim 6.4 3 VIII (Destructive)
Peralta Hills 6.6 13 VII (Very strong)
Whittier 7.0 14 VII (Very strong) – VIII (Destructive)
Chino 6.6 17 VI (Strong)–VII (Very strong)
6.8 19 VI (Strong)–VII (Very strong)
Palos Verdes 7.4 16 VII (Very strong)
San Jacinto 7.3 47 VI (Strong)
San Andreas 7.9 50 VI (Strong)
*Distance between where Stanton City Hall and the epicenter (the point on the surface above the fault rupture began).
The U.S. Geological Survey scenarios show that the Anaheim Fault could cause the strongest seismic shaking in Stanton. The Newport-Inglewood and Peralta Hills could cause the next-strongest shaking. The more distant Palos Verdes, San Jacinto, and San Andreas faults could cause earthquakes that have an overall higher magnitude than the Newport-Inglewood, Anaheim, or Peralta Hills faults; however, due to the former faults’ distance from Stanton, the shaking intensity felt in Stanton would be reduced compared to the shaking that would be felt nearer the earthquakes’ epicenters. The overall magnitude of potential earthquake scenarios occurring along the Newport-Inglewood, Anaheim, and Peralta Hills faults is lower than some of the more regional faults, but their proximity to Stanton means that the City would be subjected to high intensity shaking from these earthquakes. In other words, these lower magnitude earthquake scenarios may be more destructive in Stanton than higher magnitude earthquake scenarios that are further away. As noted in Table 3-6, the likelihood of a powerful earthquake occurring along these faults within the next 25 years is exceptionally low.
Liquefaction: Due to the types of soil in Stanton and the surrounding area, the City will be perpetually at risk of a liquefaction event if the water table remains as high as it is. Liquefaction events are triggered by seismic shaking, so the likelihood of a liquefaction event occurring depends on the probability of an earthquake. An earthquake could occur along the numerous local faults running through northwestern Orange County, leading to a liquefaction event. However, the likelihood of one of these local faults experiencing an earthquake powerful enough to trigger a liquefaction event within the next 25 years is 19 Working Group on California Earthquake Probabilities. 2015. The Third California Earthquake Rupture Forecast (UCERF3). http://www.wgcep.org/ucerf3
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
36 quite low. Refer to Table 3-6 for the probability of a major earthquake occurring in faults close to Stanton.
Large and active regional faults such as the San Andreas or San Jacinto Faults are far more likely to experience a significant earthquake within the next quarter-century. However, these fault systems may be too distant from Stanton to generate a significant shaking intensity which could trigger a liquefaction event. Therefore, it is only possible to say that liquefaction could occur in the City, but it is impossible to say with certainty when and where a future liquefaction event could occur in Stanton.
CLIMATE CHANGE CONSIDERATIONS
Seismic shaking: There is no direct link between climate change and seismic activity that could impact Stanton, so climate change is not expected to cause any changes to the frequency or intensity of seismic shaking. Some research indicates that climate change could result in “isostatic rebounds,” or a sudden upward movement of the crust because of reduced downward weight caused by glaciers. As glaciers are known to melt when global temperatures increase, climate change could indirectly lead to increased seismicity in Southern California.
Liquefaction: Climate change is anticipated to change the usual precipitation patterns in Southern California. Periods of both rain and drought are anticipated to become more intense and frequent. This means that more precipitation will likely occur during rainy periods, and drought is expected to last even longer. As a result, the water table in Stanton could rise during intense periods of precipitation.
Alternatively, a longer-lasting drought may lead to more groundwater withdrawal and could lower the water table. Therefore, climate change could either increase or decrease the risk of liquefaction in Stanton.
Energy/Power Shortage
DESCRIPTION
An energy/power shortage is an event that occurs within an electric power system when the total real or reactive power of the power plants in the system is insufficient to supply all consumers with electric power of the required quality. These events are considered lifeline system failures. These shortages or outages can be the primary hazard, or these events can be the direct result of another hazard, such as an earthquake, extreme weather event, or flood. These failures can also be in conjunction with other lifeline system failures such as natural gas, communication, drinking water, wastewater disposal, or transportation. Power shortages can exacerbate and or create detrimental effects on these various operational and lifeline systems. For this hazard profile discussion, energy/power shortage incidents are the primary hazard of concern; however, power failure as the secondary impact resulting from other hazard events is a concern for many of the other hazards profiled in this plan.
Generally, these power shortage events are the direct result of events beyond the control of the City.
These events often occur during a time of extreme demand/need for power, such as an extreme heatwave that creates an enormous strain on the power grid as residents try to stay cool. Most of these energy outages are short-term in duration, but they can last for weeks if the situation is dire. There are three (3) types of power/energy shortages or outages; each of them is categorized based on duration and the actual effect of the shortage/outage event:
• Permanent is a massive loss of power typically caused by fault on a powerline; however, power is restored automatically once the fault has been cleared.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
37 • Brownout is a sag (or drop) in voltage in an electrical power supply. They can cause poor performance of equipment or various operational systems. • Blackout is a total loss of power in an area and is the worst form of a power outage that can happen. Blackouts can last from a few minutes to multiple weeks, depending on the nature of the causing event and the configuration of the actual electric network.
Another cause for potential energy/power outages is
solar storms. According to the Department of
Homeland Security, “Space Weather” is a naturally
occurring phenomenon in which the sun releases
solar flares, energetic particles and/or coronal mass
ejections (CME). These events are known as solar
storms. If a CME is directed towards Earth, it can
interact with the Earth’s magnetic field and cause
geomagnetic storms. Under these circumstances,
extra currents, known as geo-magnetically induced
currents (GIC), are created in the ground,
impacting the electric grid. These GICs can cause
widespread outages in two ways. First, they cause
permanent damage to critical grid components, such
as high-voltage power transformers. This is of
particular concern as high voltage transformers are
not easily replaceable. Second, the GICs can cause voltage instability in the grid and cause the system voltage to collapse, resulting in a widespread but temporary outage. Protecting the grid with localized GIC forecasting: The Space Weather Prediction Center currently provides regional-level space weather warnings and alerts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. A forecasting tool is under development to enable more localized and precise GIC forecast levels to provide grid owners and operators with actionable information. By providing accurate and tailored forecasts specific to a utility’s location and infrastructure, utility operators will be better informed to make operational decisions to mitigate the impacts of solar storms. This can range from canceling maintenance work to temporarily shutting down vulnerable grid components and preventing permanent damage. Utilities will also be informed when it is “all clear” and safe to resume normal operations. 20 Another potential cause of an energy/power shortage is the detonation of an EMP (Electro-magnetic pulse) device. An EMP is designed to wreak as much havoc as a traditional bomb blast on society, however, with less loss of life, since the blast results in power losses that can affect critical functions and facilities. According to researchers at the Foundation for Resilient Societies, the worst-case scenario EMP event would be a high-altitude nuclear detonation. This would create a series of blast waves that would ripple out and impact any electrical equipment on the ground, in the air, even in orbit. Much 20 “DHS Science and Technology Directorate: Solar Storm Mitigation” https://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/publications/Solar%20Storm%20Mitigation-508_0.pdf Permanent damage to the Salem New Jersey Nuclear Plant GSU Transformer caused by the severe geomagnetic storm of March 13, 1989 (Credit: PSE&G)
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
38 the same as a solar storm, the resulting EMP blast would send destructive currents raging through the electrical grid, crippling transformers, frying circuit breakers, and substations. 21 A Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) is a practice that Southern California Edison (SCE, provider of electricity for Stanton) and other utility companies may use to preemptively shut off power in high fire hazard areas to reduce fire risk during extreme and potentially dangerous weather conditions (hot, dry, and windy). According to the SCE, PSPS events are the option of last resort in a line of operational procedures employed to mitigate fire risk when conditions warrant. In considering whether to shut off power to lines in affected areas, SCE considers the following factors, which may include, but are not limited to:
• The National Weather Service has issued Red Flag Warnings* for counties that contain SCE circuits in High Fire Risk Areas.
• Ongoing assessments from the SCE in-house meteorologists regarding the local conditions related to wind speed, humidity, and temperature are informed by strategically deployed weather stations.
• Real-time situational awareness information from highly-trained personnel positioned locally in High Fire Risk Areas identified as at risk for extreme weather conditions. • Input from SCE fire management experts regarding any ongoing firefighting efforts. • Specific concerns from local and state fire authorities regarding the potential consequences of wildfires in select locations.
• Awareness of mandatory or voluntary evacuation orders in place. • Expected impact of de-energizing circuits on essential services such as public safety agencies, water pumps, traffic controls, etc.
• Other operational considerations to minimize potential wildfire ignitions.
In advance of PSPS events, SCE will meet with local governments to inform them about the PSPS protocol, including the location of circuits in their jurisdictions that may be shut off during an event. Notification is provided to residents 48 hours before the potential PSPS event, with follow-up notification occurring 24 hours before the power is shut off. Communication notifications will be made throughout the outage when power has been shut off and then finally again when it is restored. However, as extreme weather can be unpredictable, advance notification and coordination sometimes do not conform to this protocol. Notification may occur by phone call, text, the SCE.com website, email, and/or social media accounts.22
LOCATION AND EXTENT
The entire city of Stanton is vulnerable to energy/power shortages. Most power outage events are not necessarily always human-caused in nature. The cause can be an overwhelming demand for power due to an accident, equipment malfunction/failure, severe weather conditions, or any other natural hazards the City is susceptible to. Any of these can be the catalyst that creates a loss of 21 “How We’ll Safeguard Earth From a Solar Storm Catastrophe” https://www.nbcnews.com/mach/space/how-we-ll-safeguardearth-solar-storm-catastrophe-n760021 22 “SCE’s 2020 Planning for Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS)”.https://www.sce.com/sites/default/files/2020- 06/SCE%E2%80%99s%202020%20PSPS%20Preparations.pdf
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
39 energy/power. According to the California Energy Commission, electricity is transmitted and distributed to the City through a series of 220-287 kV transmission lines and 110-161 kV distribution lines (Figure 3- 3).
Power loss/shortage can occur in small areas of the city, like a single neighborhood, or the entire grid could potentially fail, resulting in the city suddenly losing power. Power/energy loss is indiscriminate in who, where, or what it affects; however, older infrastructure or infrastructure located above ground may be more susceptible to weather-related hazards. The duration of these power/energy shortages fluctuates depending upon the severity of the actual cause for the power loss and what actions are required to repair the issue or issues.
The electricity industry operated for years through utilities that were “vertically integrated,” meaning that they owned generation, transmission, and distribution, which typically had monopolies in their designated service areas. In 1996 the Federal Regulatory Commission issued orders 888 and 889 requiring utilities that own transmission infrastructure to provide nondiscriminatory access to all transmission customers.
One way for a utility company to comply with this new requirement was to allow an independent system operator (ISO) to operate their transmission system for them. ISOs do not own the electricity transmitted over the grid, and they allow market participants to transmit electricity at the best available price. In 1998, because of Order 888 and CA state legislation AB 1890, the California ISO was incorporated as a nonprofit public benefit corporation to fulfill this mission. ISOs are often compared to FIGURE 3-3: POWER TRANSMISSION LINES IN STANTON
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
40 air traffic controllers, as they independently manage the traffic on a power grid they do not own, much like air traffic controllers manage airplane traffic in the airways and on airport runways.
The California ISO is one of nine independent system operators in North America (refer to Figure 3- 4). Collectively, they deliver over 2.2 million gigawatt-hours of electricity each year and oversee more than 26,000 miles of high-voltage power lines. These independent grid operators serve two-thirds of the United States. 23
Figure 3-5 displays the approximate location and area of PSPS circuits within Orange County. Based on this information, the City of Stanton does not have any PSPS circuits that could be de-energized under this type of event. However, these circuits are strategically placed throughout Orange County to assist in the mitigation of the potential threat posed by wildfires in open spaces and forested areas. Even though no PSPS circuits are located within Stanton, the City needs to anticipate and prepare for potential effects, including power degradation, an influx of people from neighboring communities/cities affected by power loss and/or evacuation, and increased calls for emergency support services. 23 California ISO website: “ISO History” http://www.caiso.com/about/Pages/OurBusiness/ISO-history.aspx FIGURE 3-4: NORTH AMERICAN INDEPENDENT SYSTEM OPERATORS City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
41 PAST EVENTS
Small-scale power/energy loss frequently occurs throughout southern California due to maintenance and infrastructure failure. Energy shortages and blackouts tend to occur at a larger regional scale, affecting Stanton residents and businesses depending on the failure location. California has experienced some major statewide and regional energy shortages due to various reasons, including:
• December 1982 (near Tracy, California)- Loss of a transmission tower, two (2) 500-kV lines, and a pair of 230-kV lines. Five (5) million people were impacted. (Equipment Failure) 24 • October 1989 (Loma Prieta Earthquake)- Loss of substations; 1.4 million people impacted. (Seismic Event) 25
• August 1996 (region)- Cascading impacts from loss of power from 1996 North American Blackouts. 26
• December 1998 (San Francisco)- Loss of substations, impacting 350,000 buildings and 940,000 people. (Infrastructure failure, human error). 27
• 2000 (statewide)- Power outages due to electricity crisis. 28 24 “The 3 Worst Power Outages in the History of the U.S”.https://www.a-1-electric.com/the-3-worst-power-outages-in-thehistory-of-the-u-s/#:~:text=On%20December%2022nd%2C%201982,going%20without%20electricity%20for%20hours. 25 Eguchi, R. T.; Seligson, H. A. (1994), "Lifeline perspectives" Practical lessons from the Loma Prieta earthquake, National Academies Press, 26 Venkatasubramanian, Mani V. (2003-08-20) "Analyzing Blackout Events: Experience from the Major Western Blackouts in 1996"
27 “Technician's error caused 1998outage” https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/Technician-s-error-caused-1998-outage-1- death-2595806.php 28 Sweeney, James L. (Summer 2002" The California Electricity Crisis: Lessons for the Future" FIGURE 3-5: PSPS CIRCUITS IN THE ORANGE COUNTY REGION
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
42 • 2011 (Southwest Blackout)- Cascading impacts from the loss of power from the 23 distinct events that occurred on 5 separate power grids; impacted 1.4 million people. Largest power failure in California history.29
• July 2017 (Los Angeles)- Explosion at power plant; causes widespread outages in San Fernando Valley. 30
Recently the City has experienced small-scale power outages that have affected City operations. While these events may have been rare in the past few decades due to the age of infrastructure and other factors, the City has begun to see more frequent events that have affected City operations and functions. In 2021 three small-scale events affected City facilities.
RISK OF FUTURE EVENTS
Today, several mechanisms are in place to monitor, manage and adapt to changing conditions and demands to help reduce and/or eliminate energy shortages. California and regional departments (California Independent System Operator- Cal-ISO, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission- FERC, Western Electricity Coordinating Council- WECC, North American Electric Reliability Corporation- NERC, California Public Utilities Commission- CPUC, California Energy Commission- CEC) are focused on energy production, use, and management. Each agency plays a role in planning, managing, and coordinating the allocation of energy within the state of California. Stanton can experience a power/energy shortage at any time and place throughout the year. The probability of it occurring again will always be present, as the City is dependent on electricity to function.
CLIMATE CHANGE CONSIDERATIONS
Projections of changing climatic conditions through the end of the century suggest that the City should address future power/energy shortage concerns. While energy demands are not anticipated to increase significantly throughout the City (due to compliance with updated codes and requirements), electricity production occurs outside of the City, reducing opportunities for Stanton to be energy independent.
DROUGHT
DESCRIPTION
A drought is a period in which water supplies become scarce. This can occur for various reasons; in California, droughts occur when precipitation is limited for an extended period. Rain that arrives in California via atmospheric rivers channels moist air located high in the atmosphere. When the atmospheric rivers bring less than usual moisture to California, it can reduce the overall amount of precipitation that falls on the state. Rain also comes to California due to the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle, a regional meteorological phenomenon in the southern Pacific Ocean consisting of variations in the temperature of the ocean water and air. These variations give rise to two distinct phases known as El Niño, the warm and wet phase, or La Niña, the dry and cold phase. When the La Niña phase is active, it can cause California to receive lower than normal precipitation levels. Drought may also occur when infrastructure connecting communities to long-distance water sources fails. This can 29 Medina, Jennifer (September 10, 2011) "Human Error Investigated in California Blackout's Spread to Six Million". The New York Times
30 DWP Plant Explosion Causes Massive Power Outage In San Fernando Valley https://laist.com/2017/07/09/dwp_plant_explosion_causes_massive.php City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
43 occur due to deferred maintenance or may be the result of a natural disaster. For example, many Southern California cities would experience drought conditions if the State Water Project or Colorado River Aqueduct severed during a powerful earthquake event.
LOCATION AND EXTENT
Given Stanton’s small size, any drought that is significant enough to reduce water supply to the City would impact all parts of the City at the same time—there is no section of the City that is at greater or lesser risk of drought occurrence. Golden State Water Company (GSWC) serves as the water utility provider in Stanton. GSWC has three water sources that supply the city with water. The majority comes from the Orange County Groundwater Basin, supplemented by water from the Colorado River Aqueduct and the State Water Project (imported and distributed by Metropolitan Water District of Southern California). 31 Since the groundwater basin provides such a significant amount of Stanton’s water, it is unlikely that the city would undergo a long-distance drought —a drought that occurs when a distant water source becomes less available. Given that most of Stanton’s water comes from local groundwater sources, this type of event would have to be exceptional or prolonged for the City and its residents to feel the impact.
The U.S. Drought Monitor Classification Scheme is a common scale used to measure the impact of droughts in different communities across the United States. See Table 3-8 for a complete description of each drought event classification.
TABLE 3-8:U.S.DROUGHT MONITOR CLASSIFICATION SCHEME32
Category Description Possible impacts
D0* Abnormally dry Slower growth of crops and pastures.
D1 Moderate drought Some damage to crops and pastures. Water bodies and wells are low.
Some water shortages may occur or may be imminent. Voluntary water use restrictions can be requested.
D2 Severe drought Likely crop and pasture losses. Water shortages are common, and water restrictions can be imposed.
D3 Extreme drought Major crop and pasture losses. Widespread water shortages and restrictions.
D4 Exceptional drought Exceptional and widespread crop and pasture losses. Emergency water shortages develop.
* D0 areas are those under “drought watch” but not technically in a drought. They are potentially heading into drought conditions or 31West Orange County Water System, Consumer Confidence Report on Water Quality for 2020”, https://www.gswater.com/sites/main/files/file-attachments/water-quality-west-orange-county.pdf?1621390083 32 US Drought Monitor. 2019. Drought Classification. https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/AboutUSDM/AbouttheData/DroughtClassification.aspx City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
44 PAST EVENTS
Like the rest of California, Stanton has experienced many drought events throughout its history. Each event has been distinct, with varying lengths, severity, and frequency. One of the earliest recorded major droughts in state history is the “Great Drought,” which occurred in 1863 and 1864. This drought killed 46 percent of the cattle in the state and ultimately led to the decline of cattle ranching. 33 The “Dustbowl
Droughts” lasted from 1928 to 1935. The effects of this drought were so severe that it sparked the movement
to create some of California’s modern water irrigation
infrastructure, such as the California Aqueduct.
Another drought occurred in 1976 and 1977, leading to
agricultural losses estimated at nearly $1 billion. This drought led to water-saving practices still in effect
today across the state. Further water conservation
practices were enacted during a drought lasting from
1987 to 1993, which caused agricultural damages at an
estimated $250 million each year. 34
As of early 2022, California and the entire western United States have been in the grips of a major drought.
Precipitation levels have decreased, and the Sierras did not receive the average snow level, reducing the snowpack, which reduces the amount of water available for California. The current drought is on the heels of one of the worst droughts in California history, which began in 2012 and lasted until 2017. All areas of the state were impacted, and by 2014 it was reported as the most severe drought in 1,200 years. Figure 3-6 illustrates the severity of the drought conditions experienced over the past 20 years. By the summer 33 Crawford, R. June 1991. “The Great Drought: Fickle Weather in 1860s Led to Breakdown of Cattle Industry.” Los Angeles Times. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1991-06-13-nc-780-story.html 34 Grad, S. and Harrison, S. April 2015. “3 crippling droughts that changed California.” Los Angeles Times. https://www.latimes.com/local/california/la-me-california-retrospective-20150413-story.html Shasta Lake Reservoir seen during the 1976-1977 drought. Image from Steve Fontanini.
FIGURE 3-6: CALIFORNIA DROUGHT HISTORY (2000-2022)
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
45 of 2014, almost all of California was experiencing D2 (severe drought) conditions. Stanton, all of Orange County, and more than 75% of California was reported as experiencing D4 (Exceptional Drought) conditions. By 2015, emergency water-saving mandates were enacted, requiring all jurisdictions to reduce water use by 25%. In late 2016 and early 2017, successive heavy rains helped end the drought conditions in the state. The following winter, in late 2017 and early 2018, rains did not return in the same quantity, and slight drought conditions returned across California. This moderate drought was again abated in the winter season of late 2018 and early 2019 when heavy rains ended any existing drought conditions. As of July 2022, a majority of the state is experiencing drought conditions that range from moderate to exceptional drought. Stanton (and Orange County) is located in an area of the state experiencing severe drought (Figure 3-7). In addition, Figure 3-8 identifies the change in drought conditions between 2021 and 2022.
FIGURE 3-7: CALIFORNIA STATEWIDE DROUGHT CONDITIONS AS OF JULY 5, 2022 City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
46 RISK OF FUTURE EVENTS
Drought will continue to be a foreseeable event in the future of California, including Stanton. Since most droughts are almost entirely contingent on global weather phenomena, which vary from year to year, it is impossible to predict the frequency or severity of future drought events in Stanton. Droughts that result from infrastructure failure are equally impossible to predict since the circumstances that lead to infrastructure failure are unique to each situation.
CLIMATE CHANGE CONSIDERATIONS
Climate change is anticipated to abate drought in certain situations; however, projections suggest that future drought events could become more frequent and intense in the future. In some cases, climate change-intensified weather patterns, like ENSO, may bring more rain to California and Stanton, reducing drought conditions. In other years, climate change may also prolong the La Niña phase of ENSO, which could lead to longer periods with no precipitation in California.
FIGURE 3-8:DROUGHT CLASS CHANGES IN CALIFORNIA (JULY 2021– JULY 2022) City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
47 Climate change is also expected to increase the average temperature and cause more frequent and prolonged heat waves in the region. During these events, water supplies may be affected within the City.
Hotter temperatures may also lead to increased surface water evaporation, leading to greater water consumption. If a drought occurs coupled with heatwave events, additional strain could be placed on City infrastructure, including water supply.
From a regional perspective, warmer overall temperatures in California are anticipated to reduce statewide water supplies. Much of California’s water comes from melted snow in the High Sierra. As the average temperature grows warmer with climate change, the precipitation that falls as snow is expected to shift towards rain. As less snow falls, the amount of melted water from the snowpack in the Sierra Nevada will decrease, reducing the water that will flow into the reservoirs and aqueducts that supply Southern California. While the City does not currently rely primarily on water supplies from MWD, reductions in water availability could strain supplies for neighboring communities that do, affecting the quality and availability of water supplies within the Orange County Groundwater Basin, which could affect future generations’ water supplies.
EXTREME HEAT
DESCRIPTION
Extreme heat is a period when temperatures are abnormally high relative to a designated location’s normal temperature range. There are generally three types of extreme heat events: 35 • Extreme Heat Days: a day during which the maximum temperature surpasses 98 percent of all historic high temperatures for the area, using the time between April and October from 1961 to 1990 as the baseline.
• Warm Nights: a day between April to October when the minimum temperature exceeds 98 percent of all historic minimum daytime temperatures observed between 1961 to 1990. • Extreme Heat Waves: a successive series of extreme heat days and warm nights where extreme temperatures do not abate. While no universally accepted minimum length of time for a heatwave event exists, Cal-Adapt considers four successive extreme heat days and warm nights to be the minimum threshold for an extreme heatwave.
Extreme heat events will feel different from region to region since different areas have different historic high temperatures. For example, an extreme heat day on the coast will feel different than an extreme heat day in the High Desert. Humidity plays a factor in the perceived heat that people feel, as humid conditions will make a day feel hotter than a non-humid day even though the temperature may be the same on both days. The difference between the perceived and actual temperatures is known as the “heat index.” To illustrate the effect of the heat index, a 90-degree day with 50 percent humidity feels like 95°F, whereas a 90°F with 90 percent humidity feels like 122°F. Figure 3-9 shows National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s National Weather Service Heat Index.
Extreme heat poses several dangers to public health. The human body is vulnerable to long periods of high temperatures and will eventually enter a state of heat exhaustion and dehydration if exposure to 35 Cal-Adapt. 2019. Extreme Heat Days & Warm Nights. https://cal-adapt.org/tools/extreme-heat/ City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
48 heat is extended. If exposure to high temperatures is particularly prolonged to the point that internal body temperature surpasses 105°F, heatstroke may occur, and organ failure and death may soon follow without intervention.
LOCATION AND EXTENT
Extreme heat events are not limited to any part of the City. They occur with the same intensity and duration at the same time across all locations in Stanton. The minimum threshold for an extreme heat day in Stanton is 97.3°F. The minimum threshold for a warm night in Stanton is 68.4°F. 36
PAST EVENTS
Local data from within Stanton is not available; however, nearby Daugherty Field at the Long Beach Municipal Airport has recorded weather data since 1949. The data indicates that the average maximum temperature for the area from all years between 1949 and 2016 is 83.9°F, occurring in the month of August. In addition, data from a weather station at the Santa Ana Fire Station also indicates an average maximum temperature of 84.7°F for the same time frame. Given that the minimum threshold for an extreme heat day in Stanton is 97.3 °F, it is rare that the temperature exceeds this threshold on a regular basis. Still, extreme heat events have occurred in the region, which occasionally impact the City. Some significant historic extreme heat events include:
• September 1963, the temperature reached 113°F at the now-defunct El Toro Air Force Base; the surrounding region was also hot, including coastal areas. Temperatures in Carlsbad and Oceanside reached 108°F. School children and employees were sent home due to the heat, and some agricultural crops were destroyed.
36 Cal-Adapt. 2019. Extreme Heat Days & Warm Nights. https://cal-adapt.org/tools/extreme-heat/ FIGURE 3-9: NOAA’S NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE HEAT INDEX
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
49 • April 1989, daily high-temperature records were set for all weather monitoring stations in Southern California. Los Angeles and Riverside set records at 106°F and 104°F, respectively.37 More recent extreme heat events have also affected the greater region surrounding Stanton:
• July 2018, extreme heat waves occurred throughout Southern California, including Stanton. The hottest day of the heat waves occurred on July 6, when temperatures reached 114°F in Santa Ana, CA. A second but less intense extreme heatwave occurred on July 25, where regional temperatures went above 100°F in places like Burbank. While local temperature data for Stanton is not available, the weather monitoring station at nearby Long Beach Airport indicates that the temperature reached 95°F that day.38˒
39 • October 23, 2017, Southern California experienced two extreme heat days. The weather monitoring station at nearby Long Beach Airport indicates that temperatures reached 105°F that day. 40
• September 6th – 8th, 2022, Southern California experienced a record heatwave where temperatures soared into the triple digits for most of the region. Temperatures at nearby Long Beach Airport reached temperatures of 108°.41
RISK OF FUTURE EVENTS
The City has experienced an increase in extreme heat days over the past couple of years and has had cause to open cooling centers to aid some of the City’s more vulnerable populations that are affected. It can only be expected that they will continue into the future, largely in part due to climate change, as discussed in the next section.
CLIMATE CHANGE CONSIDERATIONS
The primary effect of climate change is warmer average temperatures. The warmest decade on record is 2011-2020, with the warmest three years on record occurring in 2016, 2019, and 2020. As climate change accelerates in the 21st century, it is anticipated that extreme heat events will become more frequent and intense in California, including Stanton. In Stanton specifically, the projected average number of extreme heat days per year could increase from 4 to 24, assuming global greenhouse gas emissions peak around 2040, then decline. If global greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise until 2100, the number of extreme heat days could increase to as many as 40 days per year. The number of warm nights could increase from 4 to 30, assuming an emissions peak and decline in 2040 but could increase to as many as 72 if emissions continue to rise until 2100.
37 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. May 2017. “A History of Significant Weather Events in Southern California.” https://www.weather.gov/media/sgx/documents/weatherhistory.pdf 38 Climate Signals. December 2018. Southern California Heat Wave July 2018. https://www.climatesignals.org/events/southerncalifornia-heat-wave-july-2018 39Weather Underground. 2019. Long Beach Airport, California – July 2018. https://www.wunderground.com/history/monthly/us/ca/long-beach/KLGB/date/2018-7 40 Weather Underground. 2019. Long Beach Airport, California – October 2017. https://www.wunderground.com/history/monthly/us/ca/long-beach/KLGB/date/2017-10 41 A Long-Lasting Western Heatwave. https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/150318/a-long-lasting-westernheatwave#:~:text=On%20September%207%2C%202022%2C%20more,western%20Arizona%20and%20southern%20Nevada.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
50 FLOODING
DESCRIPTION
Flooding occurs when an area becomes inundated with more water than it can drain in a specified period of time. This can range from a small, confined area, such as a grassy field in a park that floods for a few hours after a rainstorm, to whole sections of a city, such as numerous streets becoming impassable with floodwaters. When floods are small, they may represent a minor inconvenience if recreational pathways and some curb cuts become flooded. These smaller instances of flooding where water collects into a pool of standing water are referred to as “ponding.” On the other hand, larger flood events can hamper a city’s operations. For example, when multiple streets flood simultaneously, it could prevent emergency workers from reaching victims in need of help. Flooding can also damage critical pieces of city infrastructure. For instance, unprotected electronic equipment can short-circuit if it meets water. This could lead to outages in street lighting, traffic signals, and city government computer systems. City-owned vehicles can be waterlogged and experience engine stalling if floodwaters are particularly high.
Flooding can result from multiple different causes. In Southern California, the primary cause of flooding is heavy rain that usually occurs in the winter. Most precipitation in California arrives either via atmospheric rivers or the ENSO cycle. Atmospheric rivers are channels of moist air located high in the atmosphere. The ENSO cycle is a regional meteorological phenomenon in the southern Pacific Ocean consisting of variations in ocean water and air temperature. These variations give rise to two distinct phases known as El Niño, the warm and wet phase, or La Niña, the dry and cold phase. When the El Niño phase is active, it can cause California to receive higher than normal precipitation levels. These higher-than-normal levels of rainfall can quickly overwhelm the capacity of certain sections of land to effectively drain the precipitation before the rainwater begins to pool. A failure in infrastructure may also cause flooding. For example, a water main or sewage pipeline that bursts could cause some degree of flooding if left uncontained for a significant period. A more serious infrastructure failure, such as the failure of dams, reservoirs, or levees, could cause extensive flooding. Please refer to the Dam / Reservoir / Levee Failure section of this chapter for more information on this type of hazard.
LOCATION AND EXTENT
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) designates which areas in the United States are susceptible to flooding and how likely they are to experience flooding. FEMA uses a complex classification system to categorize the level of risk for each section of land, but the two most known measures of flood event likelihood are the 100-year flood and the 500-year flood. These designations do not refer to floods that occur every 100 or 500 years but rather refers to the likelihood of a flood occurring each year. For example, a 100-year flood is a flood that has a 1 in 100, or 1%, chance of occurring in any given year while a 500-year flood is a flood that has a 1 in 500, or 0.2%, chance of occurring in any given year. These measures of likelihood are combined with the specific geography of each locale to produce specific flood “zone” designations. Table 3-9 shows a detailed list of all the flood zone categories used by FEMA.
FEMA also uses Base Flood Elevation (BFE) to determine minimum depth of the floodwaters during one of these flood events. An area with a BFE of 3 feet, for example, means that area can expect to see a minimum floodwater depth of 3 feet with potentially additional depth in particularly severe flood events.
FEMA has designated all of Stanton as lying within Zone “X,” generally meaning that the City is not in danger of a 500-year flood. Given Stanton’s specific geography, however, FEMA has added additional stipulations about the level of flood risk in the City. The Coyote Creek channel and levee on the western City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
51 side of the City, for example, has effectively mitigated risk of a 100-year flood though it is still possible that the channel could overflow its embankments in an exceptionally powerful rainstorm. The section of the City east of Moody Street, being more distant from the Coyote Creek levee, has a slightly higher risk of flooding, with either a 500-year or 100-year flood event being possible but with no more than a maximum of a one-foot floodwater depth. Effectively, the City is protected against the risk of all but the most exceptional flood events. Figure 3-10 shows the areas in Stanton that are FEMA-designated flood zones. Ponding events occur on any flat surfaces where sufficient drainage is unavailable. This includes areas such as parking lots, landscaped areas or lawns, or roadways. Since ponding is so small in scale, it is impossible to predict exactly where it will occur in the City or how severe it will be.
TABLE 3-9: FEMAFLOODPLAINZONES42
Zone Description
A Within a 100-year flood plain, but the water height of the 100-year flood is not known.
A1-30 or
AE
Within a 100-year flood plain and the water height of the 100-year flood is known.
AO Within a 100-year flood plain, and the water height of the 100-year flood is between one and three feet but not specifically known.
A99 Within a 100-year flood plain, protected by flood protection infrastructure such as dams or levees.
AH Within a 100-year flood plain, and the water height of the 100-year flood is between one and three feet and is specifically known.
AR Within a 100-year flood plain, protected by flood protection infrastructure that is not currently effective, but is being rebuilt to provide protection.
V Within a 100-year flood plain for coastal floods, but the water height of the flood is not known.
V1-30 or
VE
Within a 100-year flood plain for coastal floods and the water height of the flood is known.
VO Within a 100-year flood plain for shallow coastal floods with a height between one and three feet.
B Within a 500-year flood plain, or within a 100-year flood plain with a water height less than one foot (found on older maps)
C Outside of the 500-year flood plain (found on older maps) X Outside of the 500-year flood plain (found on newer maps) X500 Within a 500-year flood plain, or within a 100-year flood plain with a water height less than one foot (found on newer maps)
D Within an area with a potential and undetermined flood hazard.
M Within an area at risk of mudslides from a 100-year flood event.
N Within an area at risk of mudslides from a 500-year flood event.
P Within an area at risk of mudslides from a potential and undetermined flood event.
E Within an area at risk of erosion from a 100-year flood event. 42 “Section 64.3 Flood Insurance Maps.” Code of Federal Regulations, title 44 (2016): 287-288. https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CFR-2012-title44-vol1/pdf/CFR-2012-title44-vol1-sec64-3.pdf City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
52 FIGURE 3-10: FEMA FLOOD HAZARD ZONES
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
53 PAST EVENTS
No significant flood event has been recorded in Stanton in recent years. During the LHMP creation process, City staff shared that there has been reoccurring flooding near Central Park, and the drainage channel along Western Ave has impacted properties, nearly inundating several homes in floodwater. Apart from these reoccurring instances, there are no records of other major flooding events in Stanton. However, significant flooding has occurred in neighboring communities and the surrounding region.
The following are some examples of significant historic flooding in the region: 43 • December 1861 to January 1862, there were 30 consecutive days of rain across all of Southern California from Los Angeles to San Diego. Thirty-five inches of rain fell in Los Angeles, causing mass flooding around the region’s rivers. Some rivers even changed course, such as the Los Angeles River, which shifted its mouth from Venice to Long Beach. In Orange County, the Santa Ana River swelled its banks on its course through Anaheim, creating a four-foot-deep layer of water that extended to the Coyote Hills in Fullerton. Twenty people were reported dead in Orange County. • New Year’s Eve, 1933 and New Year’s Day, 1934, an extraordinary amount of rain fell across the Southern California region. In Los Angeles, more than 7 inches fell within 24 hours, and 5 inches fell in nearby Buena Park on New Year’s Day. Forty-five deaths were reported across the region. • February to March of 1938, a weakened tropical
storm reached Southern California and dropped
11 inches of rain in Los Angeles and 30 inches in
some mountain areas. Flood control
infrastructure was overwhelmed with the surge
of water, and the Los Angeles, San Gabriel, and
Santa Ana Rivers flooded their banks. Two
hundred ten people were reported dead or
missing, forty-five of whom were reported from
Orange County.
• February 1983, heavy rain fell in Orange County,
leading to flooding of several streets. In Anaheim,
30 vehicles and a multi-family housing building
were damaged.
• April 1988, heavy rains led to flooding across Southern California, including Orange County. In Los Angeles, 26 motorists were injured in a major collision. Uprooted and felled trees caused power outages in the region when they tore down power lines as they fell.
RISK OF FUTURE EVENTS
Smaller instances of ponding occur at least annually or even multiple times a year in cities across Southern California during the winter when precipitation rises. During periods of drought, precipitation levels may decrease and similarly lower the likelihood of ponding. In most years, though, it is almost certain that Stanton will continue to experience some type of flood event in the future. Larger-scale flood events are rare in Stanton and will continue to be rare due to the City’s protection by levee and other regional flood 43National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. May 2017. “A History of Significant Weather Events in Southern California.” https://www.weather.gov/media/sgx/documents/weatherhistory.pdf Buena Park inundated with floodwatres as a result of the 1938 regionwide flooding.Image from Orange County
Historical Society.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
54 control infrastructure. During a particularly severe rainstorm or after a dam failure, however, it is possible that Stanton could experience some degree of large-scale flooding though the floodwaters are not anticipated to rise above one foot in depth. In the 1000-year flood scenario, an extremely rare flood event known as ARKstorm, Orange County would experience an estimated $50 billion in property damage, more damage than any other County in California. 44
CLIMATE CHANGE CONSIDERATIONS
Climate change is expected to exacerbate the conditions that lead to urban flooding in Southern California and Stanton. Climate change will cause more intense local, regional, and global weather patterns, intensifying atmospheric rivers.45 At this time, it is unknown exactly how climate change will impact the frequency of ENSO, but it is anticipated that it will become more intense. 46 Based on the atmospheric river and ENSO changes, precipitation in Southern California will increase in frequency and degree. This increases the likelihood of a particularly exceptional rain event in Stanton. One of these exceptional rain events could overwhelm the capacity of the region’s network of dams, levees, and watercourses to contain and drain all the precipitation that falls.
On the other hand, droughts are also expected to increase in length and frequency under climate change conditions. The soil dried by extensive drought periods isless able to absorb and drain water, which would likely exacerbate flood likelihood. Overall, climate change is expected to create conditions that will increase the likelihood of flooding in Stanton.
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS RELEASE
For the purposes of this profile, this section discusses all non-nuclear and non-radiological hazardous materials release events. Events relating to the release of radiological material were determined to not be relevant in this City.
DESCRIPTION
Hazardous materials release refers to a hazard event whereby harmful concentrations of hazardous or toxic substances are released into the environment. This occurs when storage containers of hazardous materials leak or fail. This can happen due to industrial accidents, vehicle crashes, as a direct result of other disasters (e.g., a flood or earthquake), or as a deliberate act.
The threat that hazardous materials pose to human health depends on the type of material, frequency, and duration of exposure, and whether chemicals are inhaled, penetrate the skin, or are ingested, among other factors. Exposure to hazardous materials can result in short- or long-term effects, including major damage to organs and systems in the body or death. Hazardous waste is any material with properties that make it dangerous or potentially harmful to human health or the environment. Hazardous materials can also cause health risks if they contaminate soil, groundwater, and air, potentially posing a threat long after the initial release.
44 U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Geological Survey, Overview of the Arkstorm Scenario, by Keith Porter, et al., Open-file report 2010-1312 (Reston, Virginia, 2011), https://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2010/1312/of2010-1312_text.pdf 45 Thompson, A. February 2015. How Warming May Alter Critical ‘Atmospheric Rivers’. https://www.climatecentral.org/news/global-warming-atmospheric-rivers-18645 46 Cai, W., et al., “Increased variability of eastern Pacific El Niño under greenhouse warming.” Nature 564, no. 7735 (12 December 2018): 201-2016, doi: 10.1038/s41586-018-0776-9. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-018-0776-9 City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
55 LOCATION AND EXTENT
Hazardous materials and chemicals are used daily in
households and businesses throughout Stanton. In
addition to the locations of large chemical and
industrial factories, sources of hazardous materials can originate from seemingly harmless places such as
service stations, dry cleaners, medical centers, and
almost any industrial business. Hazardous waste can
take the form of liquids, solids, contained gases, or
sludge and can be the by-products of manufacturing
processes or simply discarded commercial products,
like cleaning fluids and pesticides.
In severe situations, Stanton may also be at risk of
hazardous materials release events on a regional level.
With the right prevailing wind conditions, airborne
toxic material could spread to and impact various parts of the City’s air basin.
Table 3-10 identifies 31 spill releases of hazardous
materials in Stanton that have been reported. Figure 3-11 identifies the locations within the City where hazardous materials are present, including Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) Cleanup sites, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Regulated sites, and plugged wells. This also displays the CalEnviroScreen score for the residents in the city. CalEnviroScreen is a mapping tool that helps identify California communities that are most affected by many sources of pollution and where people are often especially vulnerable to pollution's effects. While there is no extent scale for hazardous materials release, the probability of an incident is anticipated to be occasional each year.
PAST OCCURRENCES
Stanton has experienced 8 significant hazardous spill release events of at least 100 gallons since 2010, the latest occurring in 2019. Table 3-11 highlights these events, which illustrate that all but three appear to have occurred due to accidents or equipment malfunctioning.
PROBABILITY OF FUTURE EVENTS
The majority of the significant release events within Stanton have occurred due to human error, malfunctioning equipment, or as a deliberate act. Given this, it is anticipated that future events within Stanton will include minor incidents similar to past occurrences as identified above.
CLIMATE CHANGE CONSIDERATION
Climate-related natural hazard events, such as an intense flood, could cause hazardous materials release associated with transportation crashes or damage to storage containers or vessels containing these substances. Climate-related hazards could also exacerbate the effects and impacts of such events. For example, heavier rains could lead to more runoff from a site contaminated with hazardous materials.
TABLE 3-10: STANTON SPILL RELEASE
REPORTING
Year Reported Release
2010 6
2011 3
2012 2
2013 3
2014 2
2015 2
2016 1
2017 3
2018 2
2019 1
2020 2
2021 4
Source: CalOES
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
56 URBAN FIRE
DESCRIPTION
An urban fire is a fire that causes damage to buildings or infrastructure in an urbanized area. In some minor situations, the fire prompts the evacuation of the building’s occupants, and the fire is contained within a short amount of time by firefighting teams or the building’s fire suppression systems. In severe cases, the fire leads to the complete destruction of the building and can spread to other surrounding properties. Common causes of urban fires include stoves that are accidentally left on, short-circuited electrical equipment, or mishandling of household tools. Larger urban fires may be caused by breaches in gas pipelines, large transportation accidents, or downed electrical transmission wires. Fires may also be intentionally started by arsonists.
LOCATION AND EXTENT
Most of Stanton’s buildings consist of wooden-frame construction, which is susceptible to catching fire. Even structures that do not have wooden frames, such as large medical facilities or office towers, are at risk of urban fires. These locations contain furniture, papers, plant material, textiles, and other objects that can be ignited. Given that a very large portion of Stanton is developed, urban fires can occur at any location in the City since any one of these structures has the potential to burn.
Fires are also likely to occur where significant pieces of infrastructure are located, such as gas pipelines, power lines, or highways. SoCalGas operates large high-pressure gas pipelines that run underneath streets and sidewalks of the City. If a pipeline were to breach and the released gas ignites, any structures located along the extent of the breach would likely catch fire. SoCal Edison owns and operates aboveTABLE 3-11: MAJOR HAZARDOUS SPILL RELEASE EVENTSOF 100 GALLONS OR MORE Date Location Gallons Incident type
3/4/2010 8101 Cerritos Ave. 15,000 Sewage: Grease blockage flowed into catch basin 11/25/2010 10698 Bell 100 Sewage: Blockage caused an overflow 7/25/2011 10971 Katella Ave. 110 Petroleum: Transformer release due to third party collision
3/16/2012 10502 Magnolia Ave. 9,640 Petroleum: Exceeded Maximum Daily Concentration Limit
7/30/2012 Grand Oaks and
Cerritos
1,500 Sewage: Blockage in main sewer line
8/13/2013 8401 Industrial St. 275 Chemical: Polly tank ruptured 1/4/2017 12540 Beach Blvd. 500 –
1,000
Sewage: Private lateral blockage
8/29/2019 Dale Ave. at Monroe
Ave.
1,000 Sewage: Blockage in the main line
Data collected from: https://www.caloes.ca.gov/cal-oes-divisions/fire-rescue/hazardous-materials/spill-release-reporting City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
57 FIGURE 3-11: CALENVIROSCREEN SCORING ANDHAZARDOUS MATERIALS SITES IN STANTON City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
58 ground, high-voltage transmission lines strung from towers on a right-of-way through the City. While there are no structures directly beneath the towers in the utility right-of-way, several trees and an extensive lawn could ignite if a downed power line encountered them. If this landscaped space caught fire, it could spread to surrounding homes and buildings if hot cinders from the fire came in contact with the buildings. State Route 39 (Beach Boulevard) also runs through the City and carries thousands of vehicles every day. If a major transportation accident were to occur on this highway, it could potentially cause a fire. Given that the highway is non-flammable, it is anticipated that a fire that begins on the highway would most likely be contained to the highway. It is possible that an intense fire on this highway could spread to nearby houses and neighborhoods that run along Beach Boulevard.
A fire can only ignite if there are three elements present: heat, fuel, and oxygen. If any one of these elements is removed, the fire will extinguish itself. In Stanton, there is abundant fuel given the thousands of structures and flammable objects that are contained in each of them. Oxygen is nearly always present in most situations. Activity that creates intense heat that is unmonitored or unregulated may lead to the ignition of a fire. The National Institute of Fire and Technology has developed a scale that measures the increase in temperature and the kind of fire response that develops. Table 3-12 shows the progression of temperature relative to fire response.
Once a fire has been ignited, it could conceivably grow to an indefinite size if abundant fuel and oxygen are available. For example, a fire that ignites in one house could hypothetically continue to expand and even spread to other adjacent houses if there was enough fuel to link the structures together. Fires in confined spaces may occasionally burn so intensely that they consume all the oxygen available to them and burn out before expanding.
TABLE 3-12: FIRE SUSCEPTIBILITYBASED ON TEMPERATURE INCREASE Temperature (°F) Response
98.6 °F Average normal human oral/body temperature.
101 °F Typical body core temperature for a working fire fighter. 109 °F Human body core temperature that may cause death. 111 °F Human skin temperature when pain is felt.
118 °F Human skin temperature causing a first-degree burn injury. 130 °F Hot water causes a scald burn injury with 30 second exposure. 131 °F Human skin temperature with blistering and second-degree burn injury. 140 °F Temperature when burned human tissue becomes numb. 162 °F Human skin temperature at which tissue is instantly destroyed. 212 °F Temperature when water boils and produces steam. 482 °F Temperature when charring of natural cotton begins. >572 °F Modern synthetic protective clothing fabrics begin to char. ≥752 °F Temperature of gases at the beginning of room flashover. ≈1832 °F Temperature inside a room undergoing flashover.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
59 PAST EVENTS
Like most other cities in the surrounding area in Orange County, Stanton has experienced urban fires.
Some examples of urban fires in Stanton and the region include:
• Stanton, CA: July 18, 2021, Firefighters were called to a fire reported at a duplex. They found and rescued an unconscious man and his dog. The man was taken to the hospital in critical condition; his dog was left in the care of neighbors. Firefighters were able to douse the blaze before it got out of control and spread to other homes.47
• Stanton, CA: May 3, 2021, Firefighters were called to combat a structure fire at an auto repair shop on Beach Blvd. Once the blaze was extinguished, firefighters found the remains of a single deceased individual inside the structure. 48
• Fullerton, CA: An unknown serial arsonist started a series of 15 fires in trash bins and dumpsters throughout Fullerton across a five-month period from 2016 to 2017. Nobody was injured, and no significant property was destroyed, though some of the containment sheds for the dumpsters were burned. 49
• Seal Beach, CA: The retirement community
of Leisure World has experienced numerous
fires within the last ten years. A carport
caught fire in 2017, destroying eight
vehicles and resulting in
property damages worth $220,000. In
2014, five homes in the community caught
fire and caused damages worth an
estimated $1 million. In both instances,
there were no fatalities. 50
• Buena Park, CA: In 2017, An OCFA fire
station near the theme park of Knott’s Berry
Farm caught fire in the early morning
resulting in the destruction of firefighting equipment worth $1.5 million, including a 100-foot fire engine, an SUV, and two swift-water emergency vehicles. Nobody was harmed by the fire. The cause of the fire was uncertain, but it is suspected that the building’s age was a contributing factor.51
47 Licas, Eric, https://www.ocregister.com/2021/07/18/man-in-critical-condition-after-rescue-from-duplex-fire-in-stanton/ 48 Fausto, Alma. https://www.ocregister.com/2021/05/03/1-person-found-dead-after-firefighters-extinguish-stanton-autoshop-fire/ 49 CBS Los Angeles. February 2017. 4 Early Morning Fullerton Fires Likely Linked to Arson Spree, Policy Say. https://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2017/02/07/4-early-morning-fullerton-fires-likely-linked-to-arson-spree-police-say/ 50 Fausto, A. July 2017. “Fire at Leisure World in Seal Beach destroys 7 cars 1 golf cart.” OC Register. https://www.ocregister.com/2017/07/03/fire-at-leisure-world-in-seal-beach-destroys-7-cars-1-golf-cart/ 51 Sudock, J. and Whitehead, B. January 2017. “Fire at fire station near Knott’s destroys 4 fire vehicles, including $1 million aerial truck. OC Register. https://www.ocregister.com/2017/01/13/fire-at-fire-station-near-knotts-destroys-4-fire-vehicles-including1-million-aerial-truck/ Aftermath of an OCFA fire station after it caught fire and burned in Buena Park. Image from the Orange County Register.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
60 • Anaheim, CA: In April 1982, numerous homes and multi-family housing units caught fire, causing damages worth $18.5 million and displacing 1,288 residents. The fire ignited in a palm tree after it repeatedly encountered a power line. The blaze eventually spread to surrounding buildings because of the intense Santa Ana winds.52
RISK OF FUTURE EVENTS
If the conditions for an urban fire exist in Stanton, the City will forever be at risk of experiencing an urban fire event. It is impossible to predict the precise likelihood of an urban fire emerging in the City, given how each fire event has unique origins. Some areas, however, are at an increased risk of an urban fire igniting, including the buildings along the SoCalGas pipeline’s course through the City, the Greenbelt along the SoCal Edison right-of-way, and the properties along State Route 91. Given that no records of urban fire outbreaks in Stanton could be found, the overall likelihood of an urban fire starting in Stanton is exceptionally low.
CLIMATE CHANGE CONSIDERATIONS
While climate change has been linked to a potential increase in wildfire events, it is not clear exactly how climate change could influence the ignition or behavior of urban fires in Stanton.
DAM FAILURE
DESCRIPTION
Dam, reservoir, and levee failure can result from several causes such as earthquakes, rapidly rising floodwaters, and structural design flaws. These hazards can occur instantaneously or very gradually, depending on the source of the failure. Inundation associated with these events has the potential to cause loss of life, damage to property, and other ensuing hazards, as well as the displacement of persons residing in the inundation path.
LOCATION AND EXTENT
Inundation from Prado Dam could potentially result in the flooding of Stanton in the event of failure.
Prado Dam is located approximately 27 miles east of the City, along the Santa Ana River in Riverside County. This dam facility poses the greatest risk to the City (and a majority of northern Orange County); due to its size and the amount of water impounded at full capacity. In the event of dam failure, the flood wave would take 6.5 hours to reach Stanton and be around four feet deep. Inundation from this facility would affect the entire City. Prado Dam is under the jurisdiction of the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACOE) and, therefore, is subject to its Dam Safety Action Classification scale, a rating system that identifies the relative safety ratings of these facilities, displayed in Table 3-13. Dams that could impact Stanton have been identified in bold within this table. Figure 3-13 identifies the potential inundation areas that could impact the City of Stanton. This figure shows the areas downstream that would be inundated by an unintentional breach from a dam’s reservoir. The areas that could flood in the case of a dam breach are not necessarily the same areas that could be inundated by a 100-year or 500- year flood.
52Murphy, K. September 1985. “Anaheim Settles with Victims of 1982 Firestorm.” Los Angeles Times. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1985-09-12-me-21107-story.html City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
61 FIGURE 3-12: FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONES IN STANTON
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
62 TABLE 3-13: DAM SAFETY ACTION CLASSIFICATION (DSAC) RATINGS Numeral Rating Name Description USACOE Los Angeles
District Dams
I Urgent and
Compelling
(Unsafe)
Dams where progression toward failure is
confirmed to be taking place under normal
operations, and the dam is almost certain to fail
under normal operations within a time frame
from immediately to within a few years without
intervention; or the combination of life or
economic consequences with probability of
failure is extremely high.
Whittier Narrows Dam
II Urgent (Unsafe
or Potentially
Unsafe)
Dams where failure could begin during normal
operations or be initiated as the consequence of
an event. The likelihood of failure from one of
these occurrences prior to remediation is too
high to assure public safety, or the combination
of life or economic consequences with
probability of failure is very high.
Prado Dam, Lopez Dam, San
Antonio Dam, Santa Fe Dam,
Corona National Housing
Dike and Corona Sewer
Treatment Dike, and Carbon
Canyon Dam
III High Priority
(Conditionally
Unsafe)
Dams that have issues where the dam is
significantly inadequate or the combination of
life, economic or environmental consequences
with probability of failure is moderate to high.
Brea Dam, Haines Canyon
Debris Dam, Hansen Dam,
Painted Rock Dam, and
Sepulveda Dam
IV Priority
(Marginally
Safe)
Dams are inadequate with low risk such that the
combination of life, economic or environmental
consequences with a probability of failure is
low, and the dam may not meet all essential
USACE engineering guidelines.
Alamo Dam, Fullerton Dam,
Mathews Canyon Dam,
Mojave Dam, Pine Canyon
Dam, and Whitlow Ranch
Dam
V Normal
(Adequately
Safe)
Dams considered adequately safe, meeting all
essential agency guidelines, and the residual risk
is considered tolerable.
None
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
63 FIGURE 3-13: PRADO DAM INUNDATION AREAS
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
64 LOCALIZED FLOODING CONCERNS
Localized flooding is of concern within the City. Stanton is a relatively flat City, with several storm drains that traverse the City and eventually reach the Pacific Ocean. While these facilities can convey drainage, localized flooding could still impact neighborhoods within the City. Concern for flooding in Central Park and along the drainage of Western Ave are the areas identified by city staff.
PAST EVENTS
While California’s dam infrastructure is recent in the state’s history, there have already been major catastrophic dam failure events. One of the earliest in Southern California was the failure of the San Francisquito Canyon Dam. The dam experienced a structural failure because of insufficient geotechnical engineering by the then-Los Angeles Bureau of Water Works and Supply. At midnight on March 13, 1928, the 205-foot-tall structure gave way, unleashing a 120-foot-high wave of water traveling 18 miles per hour down the canyon. By 5:30 AM, the wave had traveled 54 miles from the dam site to the Pacific Ocean, killing at least 438 people, razing towns, and destroying infrastructure. It was reported that victims' bodies were recovered from the ocean as far south as the Mexico border. The disaster is considered one of the worst engineering failures in US history.53 Another, more recent dam failure in the region occurred at the Baldwin Hills Dam. On December 14, 1963, a structural failure in the dam caused a breach that unleashed 250 million gallons of reservoir water.
Diligent work by maintenance crews detected the developing failure in the dam four hours before it breached. With the cooperation of local law enforcement, they were able to successfully evacuate and save nearly 1,500 people downstream from the reservoir. Five lives were lost in the ensuing wave of water, 65 homes were destroyed, and nearly $11 million worth of property damage was incurred. The Baldwin Hills Dam was not rebuilt and is now a grassy basin in Kenneth Hahn Park, which is why it is not listed in Table 3-13.
54 The most recent incident in California is the Oroville Dam spillway failure that occurred in February 2017.
The failure in the concrete chute caused a 60-foot-deep hole to develop in the lower third of the primary spillway because of normal operations undertaken to lower the reservoir in advance of a moderately large storm. A subsequent storm in the days after the initial incident and the inability to fully use the primary spillway led to the filling of the reservoir and the use of its unlined (natural) emergency spillway for the first time ever. After two days of usage causing erosion of the unlined hillside and head cutting (erosion upstream towards the earthen dam), concerns regarding the stability of the emergency spillway caused an evacuation of nearly 200,000 people downstream, prompting both immediate repairs and a reevaluation of this dam facility and many others throughout the State of California since. 55 Near Stanton, only one dam incident has occurred, which involved an extensive episode of winter rains in 2005 inundating the Brea Dam reservoir, causing water to spill over its crest. The Fullerton Golf Course 53 Riley, K. March 2018. 90 Years Later, The St. Francis Dam Failure Remains A Vital Safety Lesson. Association of State Dam Safety Officials. https://damsafety.org/article/awareness/90-years-later-st-francis-dam-failure-remains-vital-safety-lesson 54 The Center for Land Use Interpretation. nd. Baldwin Hills Dam Failure Site. http://clui.org/section/baldwin-hills-dam-failuresite 55 California Office of Emergency Services. 2018. California State Hazard Mitigation Plan. https://www.caloes.ca.gov/cal-oesdivisions/hazard-mitigation/hazard-mitigation-planning/state-hazard-mitigation-plan City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
65 and sections of Bastanchury Road were flooded with water, but no lives were lost. The golf course was damaged, and the floodwaters eroded an adjacent storm channel. 56 RISK OF FUTURE EVENTS
Due to the looming presence of Prado Dam and the potential danger that it poses, the City could be at risk of inundation in the case of a significant dam failure. Potential consequences of dam failure are death or injury, people displaced from their homes, damage to existing public and private buildings, damage to infrastructure, loss of services from utilities, loss of government services, and economic losses. The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) evaluates, and rates dams based on confirmed or unconfirmed safety issues, probability of failure, and the potential consequences.
Prado Dam is an earth-filled dam built in 1941 by the Army Corps of Engineers on the Santa Ana River near the City of Corona in Riverside County. It is the primary flood control facility of the Santa Ana River watershed and has an area of more than 11,500 acres. The Army Corps of Engineers
Dam Safety Program has recently re-rated the dam to be a high urgency (DSAC Rating II); it was scheduled to undergo modification to the existing spillway in 2021 to address safety concerns. Currently, this project has not been
completed. Another project behind the dam is the Alcoa
Aluminum Plant Dike, which is anticipated to protect
several neighboring properties along Rincon Road in the City of Corona from a 190-year flood event.
Generally, there is water impounded behind the dam during most of the year, but the reservoir can be empty during drought events.
57 CLIMATE CHANGE CONSIDERATIONS
Climate change could increase the risk of a dam failure in the future. More intense rainstorms may increase the likelihood of reservoir infrastructure becoming overwhelmed, including the dams that control floodwaters from inundating Stanton and the rest of Orange County. Indirectly, increased climate changeinduced rains may cause more erosion, which could compromise the dam's structural integrity or the foundation it sits on.
56 Rancho Santiago Community College District. nd. Part IV-D – Dam Failure. https://rsccd.edu/Departments/RiskManagement/Documents/Risk%20Management/IV-D%20Dam%20Failure.pdf 57U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Los Angeles District. May 2019. Corps reclassifies Prado Dam, implements risk-reduction measures. https://www.spl.usace.army.mil/Media/News-Releases/Article/1849301/corps-reclassifies-prado-dam-implementsrisk-reduction-measures/ City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
66 Page Left Intentionally Blank
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
67 CHAPTER 4 – THREAT AND VULNERABILITY
THREAT ASSESSMENT PROCESS
The threat assessment process looks at the harm that Stanton may experience from a hazard event but does not consider its likelihood, so it gives equal consideration to hazards that are more likely (e.g., earthquakes, drought) as well as hazards that are less probable (e.g., urban fire, dam failure). Each hazard event that may cause harm to the City is discussed in three different areas: the physical threat to Critical Facilities (CFs) and Facilities of Concern (FOC), the social threat to vulnerable populations, and the threat to any other assets that may be affected.
Critical Facilities and Facilities of Concern
Critical facilities consist of properties and structures that play important roles in government operations and their services to the community. Examples of CFs include local government offices and yards, community centers, public safety buildings like police and fire stations, schools, and any other properties a city has deemed essential for its operations. Critical Facilities may also serve dual roles if a city designates them as public assembly points during an emergency. The City often owns CFs, but many are also owned and operated privately, such as some utilities and telecommunication infrastructure.
The Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee identified 17 CFs and 16 FOCs in Stanton that fall into 3 different categories based on their function or characteristics. Table 4-1 shows the number of CFs and FOC in each category, the total estimated value of the facilities in each category, and examples of the facilities in each. Appendix D has a complete list of the CFs and FOC.
The potential loss value is the total insured value of the CFs that fall within the hazard zone. It is intended to provide the ballpark estimate of replacement cost if the property is completely or severely damaged.
The actual repair costs could be smaller or larger than the provided estimate. The data relies on the City’s Insured Asset Values, and therefore, information for facilities not owned by the City are not shown (e.g., bridges, private buildings). In some instances, replacement cost information was not made available.
Where this occurs, “N/A” has been used within the table. Based on the available data provided by the City, there is a minimum of $34,745,096 worth of City-owned assets. The greatest potential for loss among the City-owned assets comes from the City Facilities category, including City Hall, Fire, and Police Stations located in the City. The next category with the greatest potential for loss is the Park Facilities, including Stanton Central Park and the multitude of other city parks. To better understand the magnitude of impacts, this plan identifies representative percentages of potential impact based on the total valuation of City assets. For planning purposes, we identified different tiers of potential impact. It is reasonable to assume that impacts would not exceed 50% of the total asset value city-wide. The following are parameters to help understand how much a proposed investment/improvement compares to the existing assets within the City:
• 1% Impact - $347,450
• 5% Impact - $1,737,254
• 10% Impact - $3,474,509
• 20% Impact - $6,949,019
• 50% Impact - $17,372,548
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
68 The likelihood that all facilities are completely damaged simultaneously is extremely remote. Most impacts are anticipated to be isolated to certain locations based on the hazard. This estimate does not include the value of underground infrastructure and surface drainage facilities owned and operated by the City.
TABLE 4-1: CRITICAL FACILITIES AND FACILITIES OF CONCERN Category Number of Facilities Potential Loss
Critical Concern
City Facilities (City Hall, Fire, Police) 17 1 $30,926,200 Community Centers 0 2 $1,089,200
Park Facilities 0 13 $2,729,696
Total 17 16 $34,745,096
* Potential loss data are estimates only, as replacement values for some facilities were not available. Actual losses may be greater than the estimate presented in this table.
Vulnerable Populations
Factors such as age, physical and/or mental condition, socioeconomic status, access to key services, and many other factors affect the ability of people to prepare for and protect themselves and their property from a hazard event. Even though some hazard events may impact all parts of Stanton equally, different people may experience the impacts differently. Higher-income households, for instance, are likely more able to afford the cost of retrofitting their homes to resist flooding or move to a location that is less prone to flooding than a lower-income household. As a result, the higher-income household is less likely to experience significant damage during a flood event than the lower-income household, even if the same amount of rain falls on both.
A social threat analysis examines the ways hazard events are likely to impact different demographic populations in Stanton and where these different demographic populations live in the City. This includes assessing whether the people in an area of an elevated hazard risk are more likely than the average person to be considered a threatened population. The social threat analysis uses the following criteria to assess the threat to vulnerable populations:
• Disability status: Persons with disabilities may often have reduced mobility and experience difficulties living independently. As a result, they may have little or no ability to prepare for and mitigate hazard conditions without assistance from others. • Income levels: Lower-income households are less likely to have the financial resources to implement mitigation activities on their residences. They may also struggle with having the necessary time to find and access educational resources discussing hazard mitigation strategies.
Furthermore, lower-income households are less likely to afford to move to safer areas or less at risk of being impacted by a hazard. The national poverty limit standard for the U.S. for a fourperson family is approximately an income of $26,500 or less. For Orange County, the FY 2020 Low- City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
69 Income Limits for a four-person family, according to Housing and Urban Development (HUD), is $102,450.
• Seniors (individuals at least 65 years of age): Seniors are more likely to have reduced mobility, physical and/or mental disabilities, and lower-income levels, all of which may decrease their ability to prepare for and mitigate a hazard event.
Table 4-2 shows the amounts of people in Stanton who meet at least one of the criteria for threatened, vulnerable populations. The data used is based on 2021 ACS projections data. It will differ slightly from the demographics data in Chapter 2 as that data is based upon 2015-2019 ACS U.S. census survey data.
TABLE 4-2: STANTON THREATENED-POPULATION METRICS 58
Threatened Population Metrics Community-Wide Data
Population 42,115
Households 11,399
Median household income $63,681
Renter Households 50.2%
Percentage of households with at least one person living with a disability 26.6% Percentage of households living under the poverty limit 15.5% Percentage of households with one member aged 65+ 30.8% The social threat analysis also shows the threat other populations may encounter, such as persons experiencing homelessness or persons without access to lifelines (vehicles or communication networks).
Since data for these groups are not readily available, there is no definitive way to determine the amount of these persons in areas of elevated risk, so this assessment will discuss how these other threatened groups may also be affected on a general level.
Data Limitations and Notes on Vulnerability Tables
Due to data limitations, the data comparing the hazard zone population with the Citywide population comes from two separate sources. The Citywide data comes from the US Census Bureau’s American Community Survey, and the hazard zone population data comes from ESRI’s Business Analyst reports. As a result, there may be minor discrepancies in comparing the two data sets. The data that should be considered correct for this plan is the ACS data reported in Chapter 2.
OTHER ASSETS
In addition to the City’s designated inventory of CFs/FOC and vulnerable populations, hazard events could threaten other important assets to Stanton. These assets may include services, artistic or cultural landmarks, or local economic activities. The threat assessment describes the potential harm to these other assets based on available information.
58 US Census Bureau, American Community Survey, 2015-2019 5-Year Estimates. 2019. “Table DP03: Selected Economic Characteristics in the United States.”
https://factfinder.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_17_5YR_DP03&prodType=table City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
70 THREAT PROFILES
Seismic Hazards
PHYSICAL THREAT
Seismic Shaking
Many physical assets in the City are estimated to experience the same seismic shaking intensity, ranging from .75g to .85g (shaking intensity in relation to earth’s gravity). Therefore, all facilities could potentially be damaged during a significant seismic event, which would likely be extremely costly for the City. If all facilities were to be damaged at the same time during a seismic shaking event, it can be assumed that the City would incur a percentage of the maximum potential loss of its physical assets. Assuming 20% of the City’s assets are impacted, this potential loss could equate to approximately $5.6 million. Underground physical assets, like pipelines or utilities, could be damaged if the intensity of the seismic shaking is severe enough. In such a scenario, natural gas and water delivery service to Stanton homes and businesses would be out of commission until repairs are completed. Table 4-3 data analysis shows that 17 CFs and 16 FOCs could be affected by a seismic shaking event, with approximately $34.7 million in potential loss to the city.
Figure 4-1 displays the locations of those mapped CFs and FOCs that could potentially be impacted by a seismic shaking event in the City.
TABLE 4-3: CRITICAL FACILITIES AND FACILITIES OF CONCERN (SEISMIC SHAKE 0.75 TO 0.85G) Category Number of Facilities Potential Loss*
Critical Concern
City Facilities (City Hall, Fire, Police) 17 1 $30,926,200 Community Centers 0 2 $1,089,200
Parks 0 13 $2,729,696
Total 17 16 $34,745,096
* Based on the City of Stanton insured replacement values Liquefaction
Due to the City’s location near so many potentially active faults capable of generating large earthquakes, the potential for CFs and FOC to be affected by liquefaction is a concern. Like the other northwestern cities in Orange County (Cypress, Los Alamitos, Seal Beach, Seal Beach, and La Palma), Stanton is located in a geographical area where the soil makeup (sandy alluvial soils and sandy loams) is conducive to liquefaction hazards. According to city staff, the City’s public works corporate yard has been sinking approximately an inch annually due to the effects of liquefaction. Table 4-4 identifies the CFs and FOCs located within these areas, accounting for approximately $34.7 million in potential losses affecting a total of 17 CFs and 16 FOCs in the City. Figure 4-2 displays the locations of the mapped CFs and FOCs within the City located in liquefaction areas.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
71 FIGURE 4-1: CRITICAL FACILITIES AND FACILITIES OF CONCERNLOCATED WITHINSEISMIC SHAKING AREA
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
72 FIGURE 4-2: CRITICAL FACILITIES AND FACILITIES OF CONCERN LOCATED WITHIN LIQUEFACTION ZONES
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
73 TABLE 4-4: CRITICAL FACILITIES AND FACILITIES OF CONCERN (LIQUEFACTION) Category Number of Facilities Potential Loss*
Critical Concern
City Facilities (City Hall, Fire, Police) 17 1 $30,926,200 Community Centers 0 2 $1,089,200
Parks 0 13 $2,729,696
Total 17 16 $34,745,096
* Based on the City of Stanton insured replacement values
SOCIAL THREAT
Seismic Shaking
Seniors, pregnant women, and persons with disabilities are more threatened by seismic shaking since they may have limited mobility and may not reach shelter in time. Even if these groups reach shelter in time, they may find themselves trapped if furniture or building components have fallen around them. Renters and low-income persons are also more threatened by seismic shaking since these groups may live in homes that are not properly retrofitted to survive the stresses of a seismic event. These groups may not be able to absorb the costs associated with repairing their homes or looking for new housing should their existing housing be too damaged for occupancy. Table 4-5 compares the populations within the seismic shaking hazard zones with citywide populations. Of the approximately 42,115 residents of Stanton, roughly 1,720 residents live within the 0.75g seismic shake zone, while the remaining 40,395 live within the 0.75-0.85g seismic shake zone. The table breaks the areas into two (2) groups, those located within the seismic shake 0.75g threshold area and those located within the seismic shake 0.75-0.85g threshold area. Households located in these areas have a median household income of approximately $2,432 (0.75g area) and $113 (0.75-9.85g area) less than the Citywide median of $63,681. Persons living with a disability in the 0.75g area (32.1%) is higher than the City average, while those living in the 0.75-0.85g area is slightly lower (26.3%) than the City average of (26.6%). The same can be said for the percentages of households living with a member aged 65+, 0.75g area is higher (43.5%) than the City percentage of (30.8%) while those in the 0.75-0.85g area is slightly lower at (30.3%).
Liquefaction
The entire City’s population is located within a designated zone of liquefaction. Thankfully, much of the construction throughout the City over the years has considered liquefaction. Newer buildings constructed in these areas are anticipated to contain moderate and high-income tenants with greater amounts of disposable income to use during recovery after an incident. However, lower-income residents and residents located in areas of older construction may be impacted greater due to the lack of financial resources needed to make repairs and/or the cost associated with retrofitting older buildings.
Table 4-6 compares the populations within the liquefaction hazard zones with citywide populations. Since the entire city is located in a liquefaction hazard zone, there is nothing to compare.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
74 OTHER THREATS
Seismic Shaking
As early earthquake warning systems become operational soon, it can be expected that utilities will take advantage of these warnings to shut off gas, water, and power transmission to control any potential leaks following the event. Authorities may have enough time to halt the use of bridges or move workers to a safe distance away from hazardous locations. Workers will cease their activity and take shelter until they can be safely evacuated. Therefore, all services will be non-operational during the seismic shaking and remain inactive until authorities are confident that it is safe to reactivate utilities and return employees to their workplaces. The length of this time would vary depending on the magnitude of the event. A significant earthquake would likely put utilities out of commission and halt any employment activity in the City for a few hours or several days. The City and the region would lose the economic activity that normally occurs. Like telephone poles or power transmission towers that are felled by the shaking, structures could block roadways and prevent first responders from reaching victims or evacuees who need assistance.
TABLE 4-5: SEISMIC SHAKE HAZARD THREATENED POPULATIONS
Threatened Population Metrics Seismic Shake
0.75 Seismic Shake
0.75 to 0.85
City of Stanton
Population 1,720 40,395 42,115
Households 422 10,977 11,399
Median household income $61,249 $63,794 $63,681
Renter Occupied Households 44.8% 50.5% 50.2%
Percentage of households with at least one
person living with a disability
32.1% 26.3% 26.6%
Percentage of households living under the
poverty limit
10.6% 15.7% 15.5%
Percentage of households with one-member
aged 65+
43.5% 30.3% 30.8%
TABLE 4-6: LIQUEFACTION HAZARD THREATENED POPULATIONS
Threated Population Metrics Liquefaction
Zones
City of Stanton
Population 42,115 42,115
Households 11,399 11,399
Median household income $63,681 $63,681
Renter Occupied Households 50.5% 50.5%
Percentage of households with at least one person living with a disability
26.2% 26.2%
Percentage of households living under the poverty limit 15.5% 15.5% Percentage of households with one member aged 65+ 30.8% 30.8% City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
75 Liquefaction
Services and mobility may be disrupted during and following a liquefaction event. Sidewalks, roadways, and pipelines may become fractured and disjointed because of the liquefying soils. Roads and sidewalks may be usable in some form, but a severe liquefaction event may render them impassible until they are repaired. Broken gas and water pipelines would result in utility outages, with services delayed until this infrastructure is repaired/replaced. Damage to power lines is unlikely since they are not rigid structures and can move if any transmission towers experience slight leaning. Homes and mid-rise office buildings may be damaged if the soils beneath lose strength, rendering these locations unsafe for occupancy.
Power Failure
PHYSICAL THREAT
Power shortages throughout the City can affect any CF or FOC at any time. Traffic control infrastructure, communications networks, and emergency services are just a few critical services/infrastructuresthat can be disrupted during a power outage. Facilities such as police stations and fire stations are equipped with backup generators to ensure continuity of operations in the event of power outages; however, generators can sometimes fail. In addition, physical damage to systems could result from intermittent or unexpected power loss that damages electrical and computer equipment. These events could result from maintenance, isolated power outages due to equipment failure, or loss of power from infrastructure (powerlines, powerplants, transformers, sub-stations) failure.
SOCIAL THREAT
Persons with health issues are more vulnerable to this hazard since they may rely on medical equipment that requires the use of power. Vital medical treatments such as dialysis are at risk of being canceled or postponed if a medical facility does not have enough backup generator power to conduct appointments.
If the power outage occurs during the warmer months, young children, the elderly, or people suffering from serious medical conditions are more vulnerable to heat-related complications if they are unable to relocate to a cooler location. Additionally, lower-income residents may be affected if the power outage lasts for an extended amount of time, as they may not be able to afford to replace the food spoiled from the loss of refrigeration.
OTHER THREAT
Power loss events can cause significant damage to equipment and infrastructure. With older structures, electrical wiring and outlets may not meet current building code requirements, which could become damaged during power surges or damage the devices connected to them. In addition, many businesses and residents may not use proper equipment to help prevent power surges or power loss, which can impact the functions and operations of businesses, City services, or affect residents in negative ways.
Given the potential for future power loss events, protective measures (improved outlets, ground fault circuit interceptor outlets, surge protectors, and backup battery (uninterruptible power supply) technologies should be promoted in any retrofits and improvements within the City. Current and future climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts in Stanton should prioritize energy efficiency measures, generate energy locally from clean and renewable sources, and build reliability & redundancy using the latest technologies in energy storage and backup systems.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
76 Drought
PHYSICAL THREAT
Since the primary threat from drought is reduced water supply and availability, there are no foreseeable threats to any of the physical assets in the City. Most of the City’s water comes from local groundwater sources, which are drought resilient. It is possible that any water delivery infrastructure that is not used or used less than usual may fall into some degree of disrepair if maintenance is deferred. Lower water pressures may cause some aged water pipes to release rust particles into the water supply.
SOCIAL THREAT
Droughts are unlikely to cause serious social threats to households in Stanton, though residents and business owners in the City may experience financial impacts associated with water conservation efforts.
Those with less access to financial resources, such as low-income households or seniors, could be harder hit if higher water rates or additional fees are imposed during a severe drought event.
OTHER THREATS
A typical drought is not anticipated to lead to any outages in service in Stanton. However, an exceptional drought may lead to restricted water use for residents or businesses in the City. Trees that are not adequately adapted to lower irrigation levels could perish, which would alter the City’s aesthetic appearance. Please refer to the Tree Mortality discussion under Diseases and Pests for more specific information on tree health. Any open spaces with extensive lawns may start to die, turning brown in color, which could discourage residents from using these parks and open spaces.
Extreme Heat
PHYSICAL THREAT
Very high temperatures can cause roads to deform and buckle as the concrete expands in the heat, especially weaker spots in the pavement, such as areas that have not been maintained well. Power lines and other sections of the electrical grid are less effective in higher temperatures and may suffer damage due to stress during extreme heat events.
Buildings with dark materials and pavements will absorb more heat than vegetated surfaces or lighter materials, which are better at reflecting the sun’s energy. This urban heat island effect is strongest during hot periods when the sun is strongest.
SOCIAL THREAT
Whereas a heat event can be relatively harmless for those with a reliable means for staying hydrated and cool, it can be deadly for others. Young children, the elderly, or people suffering from serious medical conditions are physiologically more vulnerable to heatstroke. Some senior citizens also take medication that can make it harder for their bodies to maintain a safe internal temperature, creating an additional threat from extreme heat events. Young children may be more vulnerable since they are not aware of the signs of dehydration or ways of protecting themselves from heatstroke.
Homeless people are at a high risk of health complications during heat waves, especially if they are unsheltered. According to the OC Homeless Management Information System data, in 2019, there were approximately 6,860 individuals experiencing homelessness in the county, with 57% unsheltered and 42% City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
77 sheltered.59 These people are vulnerable to heatstroke during a heatwave, especially if they cannot reach a cooling center.
Sudden spikes in heat can catch people by surprise. Stores can rapidly sell out of fans, air-conditioning units, or drinking water during a heatwave. Lower-income households or those with limited mobility may be unable to acquire enough insulation or cooling devices without significant preparations. This can be further compounded by the threat of Public Safety Power Shutoff events. During these events, extreme heat impacts may affect larger portions of the City and populations that would not be viewed as vulnerable under normal circumstances.
OTHER THREAT
Extreme heat causes power lines to function less efficiently, resulting in less power being transmitted to the City. At the same time, extreme heat usually prompts homes and businesses to rely on air-conditioning units, which increases the demand for electricity. When the demand for electricity exceeds the rate of supply, it can result in “brownouts” or power outages in certain areas. During an intense regional heat event, where hundreds of thousands of people may be drawing on the regional power network, it is possible that a blackout, or a complete power outage, could occur in the City as well as surrounding jurisdictions. Since extreme heat can occur suddenly, some people may be caught by surprise. Stores in the City may quickly run out of air-conditioning units or fans. In some cases, it may be too hot outside for outdoor activities to take place. Outdoor programming or events by the City may need to be canceled or rescheduled to a day that is cooler.
Urban Flooding
PHYSICAL THREAT
All of Stanton is located within the 500-year flood zone (0.2% Annual Chance of Flooding). Any physical assets located within these mapped boundaries can expect to be inundated if enough precipitation were to fall, exceeding the storm drain infrastructure design capacity in these areas. Electronic or mechanical equipment on the ground could become waterlogged and nonfunctional. The City has several key underpasses beneath major freeways that, if flooded, could impact circulation throughout the City. Table 4-7 identifies the physical assets in Stanton located within the 100-year and 500-year flood zone. There are no CFs or FOCs located within the 100-year zone; however, 17 CFs and 16 FOCs are located within the 500-year flood zone and account for approximately $34.7 million in potential losses to assets exposed to flooding damage within the City. Figure 4-3 displays the locations of the mapped CFs and FOCs within the FEMA 500-year flood zone; this is also the potential inundation zone for Prado Dam (discussed in the Dam Failure section).
SOCIAL THREAT
Floodwaters in these areas are not anticipated to rise to more than a maximum of one foot. Flooding of this type would likely inundate curb cuts and sidewalks to some extent. Any people in Stanton who walk or bike as their primary form of transportation may encounter greater difficulties with their mobility if they do not have access to an alternative means of transportation. Seniors, persons with disabilities, and low-income persons are those most likely to be threatened. Table 4-8 shows the proportions of Stanton’s vulnerable populations likely to face a greater threat from a flood event in the City. Based on the analysis 59 OCHMIS.org. 2019. Orange County Point in Time Count 2019: Homelessness in Orange County. http://ochmis.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/2019-PIT-Infographic-7.30.2019.pdf City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
78 in Table 4-8, the median household income in the 500-year flood zone is the same as the citywide average because the whole city would be affected by a flood.
Additionally, persons experiencing homelessness may be caught outside during flood conditions without any shelter. Though floodwaters in Stanton are not expected to exceed a depth of one foot, even a floodwater depth of six inches may render any makeshift structures uninhabitable during the flood event.
Possessions such as sleeping bags or electronic devices may be damaged or swept away by the floodwaters.
TABLE 4-7: CRITICAL FACILITIES AND FACILITIES OF CONCERN (100-YEAR & 500-YEARFLOODZONES) Category Number of
Facilities
Potential Loss*
100-Year Flood
Zone
Number of
Facilities
Potential Loss*
500-Year Flood
Critical Concern Critical Concern Zone
City Facilities
(City Hall, Fire,
Police)
N/A N/A $0 17 1
$30,926,200
Community Centers N/A N/A $0 0 2 $1,089,200
Parks N/A N/A $0 0 13 $2,729,696
Total N/A N/A $0 17 16 $34,745,096
* Replacement Values Unavailable
** Based on the City of Stanton insured replacement values TABLE 4-8: FLOOD FAILURE HAZARD THREATENED POPULATIONS
Threatened Population Metrics Flood Hazards
(100-Years)
Flood Hazards
(500-Years)
City of Stanton
Population N/A 42,115 42,115
Households N/A 11,399 11,399
Median household income N/A $63,681 $63,681
Renter Occupied Households N/A 50.2% 50.2%
Percentage of households with at least one
person living with a disability
N/A 26.6% 26.6%
Percentage of households living under the
poverty limit
N/A 15.5% 15.5%
Percentage of households with one member
aged 65+
N/A 30.8% 30.8%
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
79 FIGURE 4-3: CRITICAL FACILITIES AND FACILITIES OF CONCERN LOCATED IN THE FEMA 500-YEAR
FLOOD ZONE
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
80 OTHER THREATS
Flooding may temporarily stop any type of transportation in the City. Debris carried by floodwaters can block roadways, hinder access for vehicles, and potentially affect emergency response services. Rushing water only one foot deep is enough to carry small vehicles. A severe flood situation where the maximum anticipated flood depth of one foot is realized may prevent people who own smaller vehicles from driving to work, leading to reduced economic activity. Severe flooding that causes serious damage to homes and businesses would most likely also reduce economic activity until repair work is completed.
Hazardous Materials Release
PHYSICAL THREAT
Hazardous materials can cause damage to physical assets in Stanton if they are released into the environment. Corrosive hazardous materials can damage building exteriors of CFs or FOC. Flammable hazardous materials can potentially start fires and may cause any CFs or FOC nearby to flashover.
Generally, sites closer to the origin for the release of hazardous materials are threatened greater than those further away.
Table 4-9 shows the numbers of physical assets in Stanton threatened by a hazardous materials release within 500 feet of a site storing or using hazardous materials. There are no CFs or FOCs within 500 feet of a potential hazardous materials release.
Table 4-10 identifies the number of facilities located within areas of increased pollution (Census Tracts in the 50th percentile or greater), as indicated by Cal EPA’s Cal Enviro Screen dataset. Based on this dataset, 17 CFs and 16 FOCs are located within these census tracts. Based on this analysis, approximately $34.7 million in potential losses could occur if a hazardous materials incident were to occur. Figure 4-4 displays the locations of CFs and FOCs that are located within areas of the City where a Cal Enviro Screen score of 50% or above is present.
TABLE 4-9: CRITICAL FACILITIES AND FACILITIES OF CONCERN (HAZMAT BUFFER 500 FT) Category Number of Facilities Potential Loss*
Critical Concern
City Facilities (City Hall, Fire, Police) 0 0 $0
Community Centers 0 0 $0
Parks 0 0 $0
Total 0 0 $0
* Replacement Values Unavailable
** Based on the City of Stanton insured replacement values City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
81 SOCIAL THREAT
The threat of a hazardous materials release event affects those closest to a source of hazardous materials, including industrial sites, gas stations, gas transmission lines, or sewer mains. Table 4-11 shows the City’s vulnerable populations living within 500 feet of a hazardous materials storage/waste site. The median household income is approximately $36,000 more than the rest of the City. This suggests that higherincome populations may be living near hazardous materials locations. This data also suggests higher percentages of households with at least one person living with a disability and a higher percentage of households with one member aged 65+.
TABLE 4-11: HAZARDOUS MATERIALS THREATENED POPULATIONS (500 FEET) Threatened Population Metrics 500 Feet from Hazardous
Materials Site
City of Stanton
Population 804 42,115
Households 202 11,399
Median household income $100,000 $63,681
Renter Occupied Households 26.7% 50.2%
Percentage of households with at least one person
living with a disability
33.3% 26.6%
Percentage of households living under the poverty
limit
8.5% 15.5%
Percentage of households with one member aged 65+ 39.2% 30.8% TABLE 4-10: CRITICAL FACILITIES AND FACILITIES OF CONCERN (CAL ENVIRO SCREEN – 50% OR ABOVE)
Category Number of Facilities Potential Loss*
Critical Concern
City Facilities (City Hall, Fire, Police) 17 1 $30,926,200 Community Centers 0 2 $1,089,200
Parks 0 13 $2,729,696
Total 17 16 $34,745,096
* Based on the City of Stanton insured replacement values City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
82 FIGURE 4-4: CRITICAL FACILITIES AND FACILITIES OF CONCERNLOACATED IN AREAS WITHCALENVIROSCREENSCORE OF AT LEAST 50% City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
83 Stanton residents living next to major transportation infrastructures, such as highways or major arterial streets, also face a greater threat of being affected by a hazardous materials release since vehicles transporting hazardous materials may release their contents into the environment if involved in a collision.
Groups such as the elderly, low-income persons, or renters face a greater risk of exposure since they may not have the financial resources necessary to retrofit their homes against infiltration by hazardous materials or move away to a home that is further from the potential sources of hazardous materials release events. Figure 4-4 also displays the areas of the city where a high Cal Enviro Screen score can potentially negatively affect the population living in these areas.
OTHER THREATS
Hazardous materials release could threaten the City’s transportation networks and potentially the region’s. Large areas of the local road or rail systems may be closed to keep people away from areas contaminated with hazardous materials to allow remediation and cleanup activities to occur. If a highly corrosive hazardous material is released, it could potentially cause significant damage to the exteriors of any homes or businesses in the area surrounding the release. Hazardous materials could also harm the City’s urban forest, resulting in the premature death of vegetation in the affected areas.
Urban Fires
PHYSICAL THREAT
Structures and physical assets in Stanton that are not equipped with fire suppression technology or design features that mitigate fire vulnerability are at risk of fire. Generally, these buildings are older, may not be well maintained, or not meet current code requirements and regulations. While all structures can be impacted by urban fire, older structures may have increased vulnerability to this hazard. Power lines located around overgrown trees, where the tree crown envelops part or all the power lines, are also at risk of catching fire. When the wires overheat, they may ignite a fire in the tree, spread back to the power lines themselves, and burn the power line infrastructure. Underground utilities, like water delivery systems, residential electrical systems, or natural gas pipelines, are not threatened by the occurrence of fire since any urban fires that emerge in Stanton are likely to occur on the surface. According to Cal Fire, the City has a moderate fire-threat area, which would be most prone to a fire event. Table 4-12 data analysis shows that no CFs or FOCs are located within these fire hazard severity zones; however, the potential for an urban fire will always be present.
SOCIAL THREAT
A fire hazard most immediately threatens seniors and persons with disabilities. These groups may have limited mobility and weakened environmental awareness. For example, a senior who lives alone may not be aware that a fire has been ignited in their house until the room begins to fill with smoke or even flashover, at which point escape may be more difficult or impossible. Therefore, a fire that starts in or spreads to any senior residences in Stanton could be highly threatening to those populations. Persons with disabilities may require special mobility devices or caregiver assistance to go outside, which may not be readily available when the fire ignites. Other groups with increased threat levels include lower-income persons and renters. These persons may live in substandard housing with outdated materials known to be flammable. Renters and lower-income persons may also live in housing units with improperly designed or maintained electrical or heating systems that could lead to a fire. Additionally, these groups may not possess enough financial resources to rebuild their homes or search for new homes after an urban fire.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
84 Based on Table 4-13, the City does not have residents located within high fire hazard areas but does in moderate fire hazard areas. Data suggests that persons living in the moderate fire threat zone have a higher median income than the rest of the city and have greater financial resources to recover after a fire.
OTHER THREATS
Urban fires can consume power lines and force utility operators to shut off electrical and gas transmission activity, leading to utility outages in Stanton homes and businesses. Any streets surrounded by blazes or blocked by burning debris would hinder transportation, prevent victims from escaping, and block emergency response crews from reaching the source of the fire. Anyone living towards the end of a culde-sac faces an elevated threat of being trapped if the fire occurs or spreads to the mouth of the street.
Fires that destroy trees or vegetation (especially within parks and open space areas) could limit or prevent the use of these areas affecting recreational opportunities for residents.
Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) will become a significant issue for many communities throughout California. Although there are no designated PSPS circuits within Stanton, the potential for large-scale TABLE 4-12: CRITICAL FACILITIES AND FACILITIES OF CONCERN (FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONE) Category Moderate Fire–
Number of
Facilities
Potential
Loss*
High Fire – Number of
Facilities
Potential
Loss*
Critical Concern Critical Concern
City Facilities
(City Hall, Fire, Police) N/A N/A - N/A N/A -
Community Centers N/A N/A - N/A N/A -
Parks N/A N/A - N/A N/A -
Total N/A N/A - N/A N/A -
* Replacement Values Unavailable
** Based on the City of Stanton insured replacement values TABLE 4-13: FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONE THREATENED POPULATIONS Threatened Population Metrics Moderate Fire
Hazards
High Fire
Hazards
City of
Stanton
Population 309 N/A 42,115
Households 106 N/A 11,399
Median household income $84,866 N/A $63,681
Renter Occupied Households 54.7% N/A 50.2%
Percentage of households with at least one person
living with a disability
29.1% N/A 26.6%
Percentage of households living under the poverty
limit
12.0% N/A 15.5%
Percentage of households with one member aged 65+ 38.5% N/A 30.8% City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
85 events affecting residents and businesses should be an ongoing concern. In the event of a PSPS outage in neighboring cities within the region, the City’s resources could be strained as residents of affected areas seek refuge in communities that have power. Outreach to residents and businesses to help them understand and prepare for these future events will become an important aspect of the City’s overall hazard mitigation strategy.
Dam Failure
PHYSICAL THREATS
Various factors, such as the amount of water released, the distance between the dam failure site, and the topography of the surrounding land, all influence the extent to which physical assets in Stanton are threatened. Prado Dam has large storage capacities that could lead to widespread inundation of large areas in Stanton if the reservoir waters are released due to a dam breach. Table 4-14 identifies the physical assets in Stanton that are threatened by the potential failure of Prado Dam. If Prado Dam were to fail at maximum capacity and release the water in its reservoir, it would threaten a variety of CFs and FOCs in Stanton. Based on this analysis, dam inundation could affect a total of 17 CFs and 16 FOCs in the City, potentially causing $34.7 million in loss damage. Figure 4-3 (found in the Flood section above) also displays the inundation zone of Prado Dam and the CFs and FOCs located in the inundation area.
TABLE 4-14: CRITICAL FACILITIES AND FACILITIES OF CONCERN (DAM FAILURE) Category Number of Facilities Potential Loss*
Critical Concern
City Facilities (City Hall, Fire, Police) 17 1 $30,926,200 Community Centers 0 2 $1,089,200
Parks 0 13 $2,729,696
Total 17 16 $34,745,096
* Based on the City of Stanton insured replacement values
SOCIAL THREATS
Dam failure hazards in the City would impact a variety of downstream properties and the residents that live or work there. Table 4-15 identifies potential dam impacts from the failure of Prado Dam. Since the entire city would be affected by the Prado Dam, the total city population would be at risk of dam inundation.
OTHER THREATS
Dam failures are often triggered by other events (seismic shaking, intense rainstorms, etc.). There would almost certainly be service disruptions in Stanton when these events occur. Floodwaters would quickly inundate the City, disrupting utilities, such as water, power, heating, and other services such as communications or transportation infrastructure. Residents may find that street lighting and traffic signals may be temporarily disabled. The rapid inundation of water would sweep up any debris, which could block roads, impeding traffic flow. Water would most likely inundate roadways and other low-lying, flat areas, such as parking lots, open spaces, and schoolyards. In severe scenarios, people’s mobility in these areas City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
86 would likely be restricted or even impossible. Any unprotected or unhoused mechanical or electronic equipment that is not properly elevated would become waterlogged and inoperable until crews can conduct repairs or replacement, if necessary.
TABLE 4-15: DAM INUNDATION HAZARD THREATENED POPULATIONS Threated Population Metric Prado Dam City of Stanton
Population 42,115 42,115
Households 11,399 11,399
Median household income $63,681 $63,681
Renter Occupied Households 50.2% 50.2%
Percentage of households with at least one person
living with a disability
26.6% 26.6%
Percentage of households living under the poverty
limit
15.5% 15.5%
Percentage of households with one member aged
65+
30.8% 30.8%
Percentage of Stanton potentially inundated (acres) 100% 100% City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
87 CHAPTER 5 – HAZARD MITIGATION STRATEGY
STRATEGY DEVELOPMENT PROCESS
Stanton’s hazard mitigation strategy is a comprehensive set of actions intended to reduce the impacts of hazard events. These hazard mitigation actions will help protect the safety and well-being of residents, visitors, CFs and FOC, other buildings and structures, key services, the local economy, and other important community assets. Some actions will also help with emergency preparedness, allowing for a more effective community response to hazard events. Preparedness actions are not a required component of an LHMP, but they support and complement mitigation activities. The HMPC chose to include them as part of the overall hazard mitigation strategy.
USE OF HAZARD AND THREAT ASSESSMENT
The HMPC relied partly on the hazard profiles and threat assessments in this Plan to develop the mitigation strategy's actions. A comprehensive set of mitigation actions that respond to the relevant hazard situations and provide protection to residents, businesses, and community assets in Stanton was prepared. The HMPC ensured that the mitigation actions will help reduce damage from the most frequent types of hazard events, the most significant that may reasonably occur, and those with the greatest potential to harm the community. The Committee also drafted mitigation actions to help protect the most vulnerable community members and the most vulnerable local assets.
CAPABILITIES ASSESSMENT
As part of the effort to draft mitigation actions, the City completed a capabilities assessment, which included reviewing existing policies, personnel, and technical resources to support hazard mitigation activities in Stanton. The hazard mitigation actions build off these resources' existing success and leverage their capabilities to support improved resiliency in the community. The capabilities assessment looked at the following types of resources:
• Personnel resources: City employees and volunteers, and employees and volunteers at other agencies
• Plan resources: Advisory or enforceable plans adopted by the City or other agencies. • Policy resources: Policies adopted and implemented by the City or other agencies • Technical resources: Data and tools available to the City • Financial resources: Funding mechanisms available to the City that support mitigation activities
CAPABILITIES IMPROVEMENT/EXPANSION
The ability to expand current mitigation capabilities will generally be reliant upon the budgeting allocated for each department/program for that fiscal year. The level at which these programs may or may not be expanded upon, will be dependent upon the amount of funding received. FEMA has released a series of guides over the past few years which highlight some of the ways in which jurisdictions can expand mitigation. Some strategies for increasing current mitigation capabilities may include:
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
88 1. City should actively identify, adopt, and enforce the most current set of development codes and standards available. Strongly encouraging new development to be constructed to higher standards than currently required, increasing resilience within the community.
2. Engaging parts of the community that may not be actively involved in mitigation efforts.
3. Expanding the number and types of organizations involved in mitigation planning and implementation, increasing both efficiency and bandwidth.
4. Fostering new relationships to bring underrepresented populations and partners to the hazards mitigation planning process.
5. During the annual LHMP review, the committee should look for opportunities to fund and expand/enhance the effectiveness of current mitigation actions.
Table 5-1 shows the capabilities assessment for Stanton.
TABLE 5-1: CAPABILITIES ASSESSMENT FOR STANTON
Resource Resource Description Connection to Mitigation
Planning and Regulatory Capabilities
Capital
Improvement
Program
The CIP implements long-range planning for
improvements to the City's infrastructure. The
CIP plans, designs, and constructs these
improvements. The Plan is vital for planning
and managing the City’s growth and
development and maintaining existing
infrastructure. During Plan development,
capital projects affecting public health and
safety and/or legal mandates receive the
highest priority; emphasis is also placed on
projects maintaining service levels or
preventing facilities' deterioration. As new
grant opportunities become available, the CIP
may have projects consistent with the LHMP
that can easily be used for grant submittals.
Leveraging these two plans can help secure
needed funds to reduce vulnerabilities
throughout the City.
Integration of this Plan into the CIP can
assist in mitigation efforts by identifying
new funding sources for future
improvements.
(2021)
Zoning
Ordinance
Zoning divides the city into specific areas
(most typically Residential, Commercial, and
Industrial) to regulate the development
standards like the number of units, building
height, setbacks, and appearance required for
each zone.
Mitigation actions related to the siting,
construction, and operation of new
developments in Stanton may be
implemented through the Zoning Code to
ensure these locations address risks
identified in the plan.
(2018)
Flooding
Ordinance
Stanton Municipal Code “Floodplain
Management, sections 11.04 – 11.14.”
This can be directly applied to any
mitigation strategies that are developed or
modified from existing policy.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
89 Floodplain management is a communitybased effort to prevent or reduce the risk of flooding, resulting in a more resilient
community. State and federal agencies, local
communities, and property owners have a
role in reducing flood risk and helping
communities become more resilient.
Public Works &
Maintenance
The City of Stanton Public Works Department
is responsible for maintaining and improving
the City's vital infrastructure, including
streets, sidewalks, parks, landscaping, sewers,
storm drains, and public facilities. Services are
provided using a combination of in-house
personnel and private contractors and are
divided into two subdivisions: Maintenance
and Engineering. The Maintenance Division
maintains public facilities for the City of
Stanton using a combination of in-house
personnel and private vendors. These services
include maintenance of public buildings and
facilities, landscaping and park upkeep, street
and sidewalk maintenance and repair, storm
drain and sewer servicing, and graffiti
abatement.
Support for mitigation activities from this
department may include assessing mobility
options for residents with Access and
Functional Needs and identifying future
transportation projects that can reduce
evacuation vulnerabilities or enhance the
roadway network, so it is less prone to
damage during hazard events. Aid in the
identification of public needs and the
resulting mitigation policies.
Public Safety /
Code
Enforcement
Our Code Enforcement Team is dedicated to
community improvement and neighborhood
enhancement. We contribute to public and
private properties' safety and aesthetic
maintenance by enforcing City codes
regarding commercial signage, land
use/zoning, inoperable vehicles, public
nuisances, and other hazards/violations that
left unchecked harm citizens’ health, welfare,
and safety. This program is carried out
through field investigations, notification,
citation issuance, public education, and
coordination with other agencies.
Mitigation activities could include the
identification of violations, then
implementing the necessary correction to
reduce vulnerability and mitigate damage.
Orange County
Hazard
Mitigation Plan
Mitigation actions for Stanton that require
coordination with the county may be
integrated into the County’s Hazard
Mitigation Plan. Similar mitigation actions in
both the county’s and Stanton’s hazard
mitigation plans can lead to a more regionally
unified hazard mitigation strategy, improving
effectiveness.
The Orange County Hazard Mitigation Plan
identifies and describes the hazard events
that may occur in the unincorporated areas
of Orange County and provides a suite of
mitigation actions to help decrease the
potential damage from these hazards.
(2020)
California State
Hazard
Mitigation Plan
The California State Hazard Mitigation Plan
assesses the types of hazards that may be
present in California. It includes descriptions
of these hazards, summaries of past hazard
events, descriptions of how these hazards
may occur in the future, and how these
hazards may harm California's people and
The Committee can use the State Hazard
Mitigation Plan as a source of information
to refine the hazard profiles and
vulnerability assessments in future Stanton
LHMPs.
(2018)
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
90 assets. Like a local hazard mitigation plan, the
State Hazard Mitigation Plan is updated every
five years.
Administrative and Political Capabilities
City Council The City of Stanton operates under a
Council/Manager form of government, under
which the City Council is the policymaking
body, and the City Manager is responsible for
carrying out Council policy. The City Council is
made up of Stanton's mayor, who is elected at
large, and four City Council members elected
by voters in their districts. The City Council
addresses the current and future needs of the
City through the adoption of policies that
promote the best interests of the community
and the City's relationships with citizens,
businesses, community organizations, and
other governmental agencies. The three
forms of action that the City Council may take
are ordinances, resolutions, and minute
orders. The City Council ultimately approves
and officially adopts the LHMP for Stanton.
The City Council supports mitigation
through strategic planning and goal setting
for the city.
City Clerk The City Clerk administers the City’s legislative processes. This entails conducting the City’s
elections and serving as filing officer for the
Political Reform Act, preparing agendas for
City meetings, keeping accurate records of the
meetings, and complying with the open
meeting law (Ralph M. Brown Act, California
Government Code §54950 et seq.). The City
Clerk maintains the City’s historical records as
well as the Stanton Municipal Code and
administers a City-wide Records Management
program. The City Clerk is responsible for
documenting and maintaining records of the
adopted code changes.
Mitigation activities implemented by this
office may include direction setting with the
City Council and City Departments and
prioritizing new initiatives that support
mitigation activities within the City.
City Manager The City Manager is appointed by the City
Council to serve as the City's chief
administrative officer and is responsible for
providing effective municipal services through
the administrative direction of City
departments, activities, and personnel. The
City Manager's Office oversees various
interdepartmental activities, programs, and
provides direct support for the City Council.
These activities include preparing the annual
budget, ensuring City Council Goals and
Strategies, priorities, and action plans are
met, directing law enforcement, fire
protection, animal control, crossing guard
services, etc.
Mitigation activities implemented by this
office may include direction setting with the
City Council and City departments and the
prioritization of new initiatives, ordinances
that will support mitigation projects, and
activities within the city.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
91 California
Governor’s Office
of Emergency
Services
The California Governor’s Office of Emergency
Services (Cal OES) is the state agency
responsible for reducing hazards in the state
through mitigation activities, conducting
emergency planning, supporting emergency
response and recovery activities, and acting as
a liaison between local and federal agencies
on emergency-related issues. Cal OES guides
hazard mitigation planning activities, shares
best practices, and distributes funding
opportunities.
The Committee can work with Cal OES to
obtain funding to implement LHMP
mitigation strategies and to receive
guidance on future updates.
Federal
Emergency
Management
Agency
The Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA) is responsible for hazard mitigation,
emergency preparedness, and emergency
response and recovery activities. It guides
state and local governments on hazard
mitigation activities, including best practices
and compliance with federal requirements.
FEMA also provides funding for hazard
mitigation actions through grant programs.
Finance
Department
The Finance Department is tasked with
maintaining reliable accounting records,
payment of approved demands against the
City treasury, financial statement reporting,
preparation of the annual budget, prudent
fiscal planning, payroll processing and debt
administration. The Department also
administers the business license, transient
occupancy tax and utility users tax programs.
The City's Investment Policy directs the
investment of City, Successor Agency and
Housing Authority monies with the following
priorities established: preservation and safety
of principal, liquidity necessary to meet daily
cash flow requirements, and maximized yield
after the first two priorities are met.
Financial management and strategic
planning functions (and personnel) within
the City can assist with mitigation activities
by tracking costs associated with hazard
events and disasters, identifying grant
funding opportunities, and establishing
financial risk calculations that can help
departments budget operations and
maintenance, and capital improvements.
Human
Resources and
Risk
Management
The Human Resources Department oversees
the City's Human Resources and Risk
Management functions. The Human
Resources Department's mission is to
contribute to the City's organizational vision
by providing a personnel system that ensures
the selection of qualified individuals for City
employment, equal opportunity for
candidates for position in the City's service,
and legal adherence to federal, state, and
local employment laws and guidelines.
Human Resources staff conducts recruitment
and selection of candidates for positions in
City service; administers the City's Personnel
Rules and Regulations, and related policies;
administers the City's employee benefits
program including health, dental, vision,
retirement, and life insurance; and
The Human Resources Department is
focused on employment, benefits and
wellness, employee relations, and risk
management, which can play key role in
understanding risks to employees within
the city. This can prove to be valuable
insight for mitigation planning purposes in
the city.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
92 coordinates various employee training and
recognition programs.
Community
Engagement
Advisory
Committee
The Committee works to motivate and
mobilize residents that want to create
meaningful change in the Stanton
Community. The Community Engagement
Advisory Committee (CEAC) is a group that
meets to make positive improvements in the
community. CEAC members are ambassadors
for the FRC and promote programs, activities,
and volunteer opportunities in the City of
Stanton.
Mitigation actions t provided by the
committee can include assistance with
public outreach and engagement and
adding valuable community insight to the
planning process.
Community
Services
Department
The Community Services Department's role is
to serve the community by creating
opportunities to play, celebrate, connect,
explore, and be entertained through quality
programs, safe parks, and well-maintained
facilities
Mitigation actions implemented by this
department can assist in the dissemination
of hazard awareness information, provide
insight into the unique conditions hazards
may impose to the various elements within
the community, and create programs
intended to increase overall life quality in
the city.
Building Division The Building Division is dedicated to providing the highest level of plan review and inspection
services to our community. The goal of our
staff is to help our customers build safe and
sustainable buildings that comply with
applicable codes and regulations.
Mitigation actions related to the
construction of new structures or retrofits
or improvements to existing structures may
be implemented through future planprocessing.
Engineering
Division
The Engineering Division manages the City’s
infrastructure by administering the planning,
programming, budgeting, construction, and
maintenance in the most cost-effective
method to meet the needs of the community.
The Engineering Division is responsible for the
design and construction of the City’s Capital
Improvement Program (CIP). This includes
improvements to the street, traffic signals,
storm drains and sewer systems along with
public facilities and parks. The Engineering
Division also reviews proposed private
developments and recommends conditions of
approval, provides plan check services, issues
permits for construction in the City right-ofway, and manages the City’s solid waste program. The Engineering Division also
represents the City on OCTA, Caltrans, Orange
County grant programs, and regional
engineering projects.
Mitigation activities include the input,
design, creation of, and implementation of
new designs, improvement to current
infrastructure as identified in the LHMP or
City Council meetings.
Planning Division The City of Stanton Planning Division reviews and processes project applications to ensure
that future land use decisions and
development proposals are aligned with the
City's General Plan and adopted land use
Mitigation actions implemented by the
planning department would be successfully
integrating the LHMP, general plan safety
element, and zoning code. Department
staff would also implement the plans
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
93 regulations. The Planning Division is also
responsible for administering the Zoning
Code.
focusing on projects that reduce residents'
and businesses' risks associated with
natural and human-caused hazards.
Planning
Commission
The Planning Commission consists of five
members appointed by the City Council. The
functions of the planning commission are:
prepare, review and revise the General Plan;
implement the General Plan through actions
including, but not limited to, the
administration of specific plans and zoning
and subdivision ordinances; promote public
interest in, and comment on, the general plan
and regulations relating to it; promote the
coordination of local plans and programs with
the plans and programs of other public
agencies and perform other functions as the
legislative body provides, including
conducting studies and preparing plans other
than those required or authorized by this title.
Mitigation activities could include the
implementation of policies and codes and
overseeing the development processes.
Orange County
Fire Authority
The Orange County Fire Authority is a regional
fire service agency that serves 23 cities in
Orange County and all unincorporated areas.
The OCFA protects nearly 2 million residents
from its 77 fire stations located throughout
Orange County. The OCFA, founded in 1995, is
a premier public safety agency providing
superior fire protection and medical
emergency services to our communities.
Orange County Fire Authority provides service
to Stanton, Buena Park, La Palma, and Cypress
through Operations Division 7.
Fire-related mitigation actions that require
coordination with the county may be
implemented in collaboration with OCFA
staff.
Orange County
Sheriff’s
Department
The Orange County Sheriff's Department has
provided law enforcement services for
Stanton since February of 1988 when the city
Police Department and Sheriff’s Department
merged. Stanton Police Services includes five
sergeants, twenty patrol deputies, one motor
deputy, two deputies assigned to the city’s
Community Enhancement Team, two
investigators, two investigative assistants,
two office specialists, and a part time cadet.
Community programs offered by Stanton
Police Services include GRIP, Neighborhood
Watch, Business Watch, homeless outreach,
and community events.
As emergency preparedness is part of the
department’s responsibilities, the Sheriff’s
department can also widely implement
other types of mitigation actions through
coordination with other departments and
agencies. Mitigation actions that relate to
the safe movement of traffic (e.g., during
evacuations), the public safety of residents
during emergency events, and terrorismrelated activities may be implemented through police department staff.
Technical Capabilities
Cal-Adapt Cal-Adapt is an online tool that provides
detailed projections for future climate-related
conditions in California, including factors such
as temperature, precipitation, and sea-level
rise. These projections can help inform future
The City can use Cal-Adapt to monitor
anticipated changes in future climate
conditions and adjust mitigation actions
accordingly.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
94 hazard events and explain how hazard
conditions are expected to change.
California
Department of
Transportation
The California Department of Transportation
(Caltrans) is the state agency with jurisdiction
over designated highways, including State
Route 210 and Interstate Routes 10 and 15.
Mitigation measures related to ensuring the
resiliency of state-designated routes will be
implemented through coordination with
Caltrans.
CR&R
Environmental
Services
CR&R has an extensive network of processing
facilities that manages every facet of
Stanton’s waste stream including solid waste,
recyclables, green waste, food waste,
construction and demolition waste, electronic
waste, and several other materials.
Through their extensive collection and
processing systems, CR&R strive to reduce
the negative impact that solid waste can
potentially have on Stanton’s environment
for generations to come.
Orange County
Sanitation
District
The Orange County Sanitation District (OCSan)
is the agency that provides wastewater
collection, treatment, and disposal services
for approximately 2.6 million people in central
and northwest Orange County.
Mitigation strategies focused on the
enhancement of infrastructure within the
City may be implemented with support and
assistance from OCSan.
Southern
California Edison
Southern California Edison (SCE) is the
primary electrical service provider for
Stanton. SCE also owns the electrical
distribution grid in the community.
Mitigation actions relating to Stanton’s
electrical grid's resiliency will be
implemented through coordination with
SCE.
Southern
California Gas
Company
The Southern California Gas Company
(SoCalGas) is the natural gas provider for
Stanton and owns the community's natural
gas infrastructure.
Mitigation actions that address the
resiliency of natural gas infrastructure and
services in Stanton will be implemented
through coordination with SoCalGas.
Golden State
Water Company
Golden State Water Company currently serves
approximately 27,200 customers in Stanton,
Cypress, Los Alamitos, and portions of Buena
Park, Garden Grove, La Palma, Rossmoor, and
Seal Beach. Water delivered to customers in
the West Orange County System is a blend of
groundwater pumped from the Orange
County Groundwater Basin and imported
water from the Colorado River Aqueduct and
State Water Project (imported and distributed
by Metropolitan Water District of Southern
California).
As the City’s primary water provider, GSWC
can effectively manage and monitor water
use and ensure adequate water supplies to
mitigate severe drought.
Fiscal Capabilities
Adopted FY
Budget
The City adopts its budget every year, which
identifies the funding available for each fiscal
year that can be used to support
governmental operations.
This budget is a key location where future
mitigation projects can be identified from a
funding perspective.
(2021-22)
Education and Outreach Capabilities
Community
Outreach Media
Resources
In order to better inform the community and
keep them apprised on current city programs
and projects, the City of Stanton maintains
active social media accounts including
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
The city has a very active Instagram and
Facebook presence with weekly and daily
posts to the account’s.
This can aid in mitigation activities by
promoting the various mitigation projects
and programs by becoming a source of
information and direction during
emergencies and evacuations.
(2021)
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
95 OCFA
Ready, Set, Go!
OCFA has an active program for its
communities that educates residents and
businesses, how to proactively plan for fires
and other active emergencies. It gives the
community the tools needed to protect their
lives, their family, and their property.
This program allows residents to be aware
of wildfires and how to prepare in case of a
sudden emergency.
HAZARD MITIGATION STRATEGIES AND ACTIONS
Hazard Mitigation Goals
The goals identified in Chapter 1 help develop policies to protect community members, ecosystems, and other important assets from hazard events. These goals were developed to ensure consistency with the City’s General Plan Safety Element, which plays an important role in risk reduction within Stanton. These goals informed the development of mitigation actions and acted as checkpoints to help City staff determine implementation progress.
Evaluation of Potential Hazard Mitigation Actions
The Committee prepared a set of potential mitigation actions based on the hazard profiles, threat assessment, capabilities assessment, community survey results, discussions among Committee members, and existing best practices. Next, the Committee evaluated these potential actions using the following criteria:
FEMA requires local governments to evaluate potential mitigation actions' monetary and non-monetary costs and benefits. While local governments are not required to assign specific dollar values to each action, they should identify the general size of costs and benefits. The Committee may elect to include measures with a high cost or low benefits, but such measures should benefit the community and be an appropriate use of local resources.
Also, FEMA directs local governments to consider the following questions as part of the financial analysis:
• What is the frequency and severity of the hazard type to be addressed by the action, and how vulnerable is the community to this hazard?
• What impacts of the hazard will the action reduce or avoid? • What benefits will the action provide to the community? The Committee also chose to review and revise the potential hazard mitigation actions using the STAPLE/E (Social, Technical, Administrative, Political, Legal, Economic, and Environmental) criteria Table 5-2. The Committee did not formally assess every potential mitigation action under all STAPLE/E criteria but used the criteria to guide and inform the discussion. The Committee also discussed how the criteria might evaluate grant applications the City may submit to receive funding for LHMP implementation.
Prioritization
As part of the mitigation actions development and review, the HMPC also prioritized the actions. The prioritization efforts looked at the risks and threats from each hazard, financial costs and benefits, technical feasibility, and community values. Committee members were asked to identify their priority actions through a voting exercise. Items are prioritized based on the number of votes received by the City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
96 HMPC members. These quantitative scores were then converted to qualitative categories of low, medium, and high priority.
TABLE 5-2: STAPLE/E CRITERIA
Issues Criteria
Social • Is the action socially acceptable to Stanton community members? • Would the action mistreat some individuals?
• Is there a reasonable chance of the action causing a social disruption? Technical • Is the action likely to reduce the risk of the hazard occurring, or will it reduce the hazard's effects?
• Will the action create new hazards or make existing hazards worse? • Is the action the most useful approach for Stanton to take, given the City and community members' goals?
Administrative • Does the City have the administrative capabilities to implement the action? • Are there existing City staff who can lead and coordinate the measure's implementation, or can the City reasonably hire new staff for this role? • Does the City have enough staff, funding, technical support, and other resources to implement the action?
• Are there administrative barriers to implementing the action? Political • Is the action politically acceptable to City officials and other relevant jurisdictions and political entities?
• Do community members support the action?
Legal • Does the City have the legal authority to implement and enforce the action? • Are there potential legal barriers or consequences that could hinder or prevent the implementation of the action?
• Is there a reasonable chance that the implementation of the action would expose the City to legal liabilities?
• Could the action reasonably face other legal challenges? Economic • What are the monetary costs of the action, and do the costs exceed the monetary benefits?
• What are the start-up and maintenance costs of the action, including administrative costs?
• Has the funding for action implementation been secured, or is a potential funding source available?
• How will funding the action affect the City’s financial capabilities? • Could the implementation of the action reasonably burden the Stanton economy or tax base?
• Could there reasonably be other budgetary and revenue impacts to the City? Environmental • What are the potential environmental impacts of the action? • Will the action require environmental regulatory approvals? • Will the action comply with all applicable federal, state, regional, and local environmental regulations?
• Will the action reasonably affect any endangered, threatened, or otherwise sensitive species of concern?
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
97 Cost Estimates
The Committee identified relative cost estimates to meet the hazard mitigation planning process's cost estimation requirements based on their understanding of the mitigation action intent and their experience developing identical or similar programs/implementing projects. Three cost categories based on the City’s typical cost criteria were used for budgeting purposes:
Low cost ($): $20,000 or less
Medium cost ($$): $20,001 to $150,000
High cost ($$$): Greater than $150,001
Based on the criteria and evaluation processes used during Plan development, the Committee prepared a prioritized list of mitigation actions to improve Stanton’s resilience to hazard events. Table 5-3 lists the mitigation actions, prioritization of each action, and other details related to implementation. In addition to mitigation action and strategies, several” Preparedness Activities” were identified and denoted with a letter “P.”
NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM
Stanton participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), created by Congress in 1968 to provide flood insurance at subsidized rates to homeowners who live in flood-prone areas. Stanton has participated in NFIP since September of 1984.60
Although participation is not a dedicated hazard mitigation action, Stanton will continue to participate in the NFIP and comply with the program’s requirements through continued enforcement of the City’s Floodplain Management Regulations.
61 This regulation applies to all areas identified as flood-prone within the City. This chapter of the Municipal Code identifies the purpose of the regulation, methods of reducing flood losses, basis for establishing flood hazard areas, development permit requirements, duties and responsibilities of the City’s Floodplain Administrator (City Engineer), development standards that apply in flood-prone areas, and required documentation and analysis for construction within these areas. As part of the City’s efforts to comply with NFIP, Stanton will make updates and revisions to the Floodplain Management regulations to minimize the threat of harm from flood events. These updates and revisions may be promoted by changes in local demographics, shifts in land use, changes to flood regimes such as frequency and intensity of flood events, and other factors that may warrant municipal action. The City will also continue to incorporate any changes to mapped flood plains' locations and designations into future planning documents, including future updates to this Plan.
The City of Stanton contains Special Flood Hazard Areas that include 16 policies in force. Total insurance coverage for these policies amounts to $4,150,000. There are no repetitive loss properties that were identified by FEMA; however, there have been $54,544 in damages paid out over 10 closed paid cases. 60 Community Status Book Report – California: Communities Participating in the National Flood Program. https://www.fema.gov/cis/CA.pdf
61 Stanton Municipal Code. Title 19 Environmental Protection, 19.2 Floodplain Management Regulations. https://qcode.us/codes/stanton/
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
98 TABLE 5-3: MITIGATION ACTIONS IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
Mitigation Action
Potential
Funding
Sources
Responsible
Department
Relative
Cost* Time frame Priority
Preparedness Activities
P1 Expand emergency preparedness and response capabilities throughout the City of Stanton;
A. Conduct regular emergency preparedness drills and training exercises for City staff.
B. Expand participation with local businesses and organizations.
C. Expand trainings to include active shooter drills and exercises.
D. Expand participation in the CalOES Safety Assessment Program (SAP) by City staff.
General Fund,
Other Grants
Public Safety $ N/A N/A
P2 Coordinate with local school districts to ensure that school facilities can act as evacuation sites during major emergencies.
General Fund,
Other Grants
Public Safety $ N/A N/A
P3 Expand participation in the West County CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) program for residents and businesses.
General Fund,
Other Grants
Public Safety $ N/A N/A
P4 Ensure that community evacuation plans include provisions for community members who do not have access to private vehicles or are otherwise unable to drive.
General Fund,
Other Grants
Public Safety $ N/A N/A
P5 Continue to ensure effective emergency notifications through multiple media formats about pending, imminent, or ongoing emergency events. Ensure that information is accessible to persons where English is not their primary language, and for residents with access and functional needs.
General Fund,
Other Grants
OC Sheriff $ N/A N/A
P6 Maintain at least one emergency power-generating station in all City critical facilities such as City Hall, Community Centers, and any other location used for critical services.
General Fund,
Other Grants
Public Works $$$ N/A N/A
P7 Periodically update the Stanton Emergency Operations Plan to identify backup power, cooling center locations, and communications infrastructure within all City critical facilities.
General Fund,
Other Grants
Public Safety $ N/A N/A
P8 Ensure that the City has an adequate supply of sandbags for residents and businesses, including prefilled sandbags for individuals who may be unable to fill them on their own.
General Fund,
Other Grants
Public Works $ N/A N/A
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
99 P9 Update the Safety Element to include the 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan General Fund, Other Grants
Community
Development
$$ N/A N/A
Multiple Hazards
1.1 Explore the feasibility of connecting critical facilities, including the Civic Center and Community Center to a microgrid power-supply network. (Hazards addressed: All)
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works $$$ 2026 High
1.2 Install energy-efficient equipment to increase the longevity of the fuel supply for backup generators.
(Hazards addressed: All)
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works $$$ 2023 High
1.3 Conduct routine updates of the Facility Conditions Assessment for City-owned infrastructure, buildings, and other utilities and coordinate with other agencies to ensure inspections of other important infrastructure. (Hazards addressed: All)
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works $$ Ongoing Medium
1.4 Repair, as feasible, all major deficiencies discovered by inspections to prevent collapse, failure, or damage in the event of a natural disaster. (Hazards addressed: All)
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works $$$ Ongoing High
1.5 Incentivize public and private utility operators to harden their infrastructure within the City or passing through the City from potential breaches.
Encourage enhancement of supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) to allow instantaneous shut down of line breaches. Use mitigation grants to incentivize entities to partner with the City to complete these projects. (Hazards addressed: All)
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
City
Administration,
Public Works
$$ Ongoing Low
1.6 Install and harden emergency backup generators at Civic and Community Centers, and other critical facilities (cooling centers) as the city may determine necessary. Encourage utility providers to enhance and harden emergency backup infrastructure for the facilities. (Hazards addressed: All) General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works,
PIO
$$$ 2025 High
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
100
1.7 Conduct a feasibility assessment of installation of solar and battery backup systems at key critical facilities within the City.
(Hazards addressed: All)
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works $$ 2025 High
1.8 Work closely with community groups to increase awareness of hazard events and resiliency opportunities among socially vulnerable community members. (Hazards addressed: All)
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
PIO,
Community
Services
$ Ongoing Medium
1.9 Avoid building new City-owned key facilities in mapped hazard areas. If no feasible sites outside of mapped areas exist, ensure that such facilities are hardened against hazards beyond any minimum building requirements/ mitigation standards.
(Hazards addressed: All)
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Community
Development,
Public Works
$ Ongoing Low
1.10 Coordinate with regional social service agencies and nonprofit care providers to obtain temporary shelter for homeless persons in advance of potential hazard events.
(Hazards addressed: All)
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Safety,
City
Administration
$ Ongoing Medium
1.11 Closely monitor changes in the boundaries of mapped hazard areas resulting from land use changes or climate change and adopt new mitigation actions or revise existing ones to ensure continued resiliency.
(Hazards addressed: All)
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Community
Development
$ Ongoing Low
1.12 Integrate policy direction and other information from this Plan into other City documents, including the General Plan, Emergency Operations Plan, and Capital Improvements Program.
(Hazards addressed: All)
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
All
Departments
$ 2023 Low
1.13 Monitor funding sources for hazard mitigation activities. (Hazards addressed: All)
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Finance
Departments
(All
Departments)
$ Ongoing Medium
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
101
1.14 Expand the City’s comprehensive educational campaign for residents and businesses that describes the hazards present in the community and emphasizes cost-effective mitigation efforts, such as proper construction techniques, bracing of furniture and appliances, and purchase of additional insurances. Distribute information through social networking, websites, print media, radio, television, in utility bills, at special events and in City facilities, and/or other media as appropriate.
(Hazards addressed: All)
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
PIO,
Community
Development,
Public Works,
Public Safety
$$ Ongoing Medium
Seismic Hazards (Seismic Shaking, Liquefaction)
2.1 Encourage the installation of resilient (seismically appropriate) piping for new or replacement pipelines, in close coordination with local water, natural gas, and other providers.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works,
Community
Development
$ Ongoing Medium
2.2 Assess soft story conditions for seismically vulnerable structures constructed prior to 1990.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Community
Development
$$ 2025 Medium
2.3 Conduct an educational campaign and identify incentives to encourage the use of reinforced chimneys, anchored rooftop-mounted equipment, window film, and other preventative measures to reduce damage at private buildings.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
PIO,
Community
Development
$$ TBD Low
2.4 Encourage community groups and industry representatives to assist in outreach to residents and businesses to obtain earthquake insurance.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
PIO,
Community
Development
$ Ongoing Low
2.5 To the extent feasible, construct all new and significantly retrofitted Cityowned facilities to remain operational in the event of a major earthquake.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works $$$ 2023 High
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
102
2.6 Coordinate with Golden State Water Company on seismic surveys and evaluations for water infrastructure within the City
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works $ Ongoing Low
2.7 Pursue ground improvement projects, such as constructing a high strength capping layer, soil mixing, stone columns, soil wicks, chemical and pressure grouting, and other soil improvement techniques that reduce liquefaction susceptibility for key critical facilities in the event of an earthquake.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works $$$ TBD Medium
Energy/Power Failure
3.1 Establish and routinely update a confidential inventory of critical infrastructure and ensure development activities coordinate with future resilience enhancements by utility providers.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works $ Ongoing Low
3.2 Expand access to alternative energy technologies, energy efficiency improvements and appliances, and programs for vulnerable populations to reduce energy consumption and the need for City services during extreme heat events.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
PIO,
Community
Development
$ TBD Medium
3.3 Expand battery backup power supplies for traffic signals, to ensure functionality in the event of power failure.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works $$$ 2024 High
3.4 Monitor changes to Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) circuits in and around the City that could affect residents, businesses, and organizations, and increase awareness of the effects of these events on the City's resources.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works $ Ongoing Low
Drought
4.1 Require plumbing within medians, that allows for future reclaimed water use (Stanton General Plan: Action ICS 3.1.2a).
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works $$$ TBD Low
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
103
4.2 Ensure the City’s emergency water connections and agreements are sufficient to provide a short-term supply during a hazard event. Coordinate inspections with Golden State Water Company of connection infrastructure to ensure it is resilient to emergency conditions and retrofit as needed.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works $ Ongoing Low
4.3 Encourage drought tolerant native landscaping, low-flow water fixtures beyond the state minimum code, and daytime watering restrictions on properties throughout the city to reduce water consumption.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Community
Development,
Public Safety
$ Ongoing Low
4.4 Collaborate with Golden State Water Company (GSWC) and Municipal Water District of Orange County (MWDOC), to pursue water efficiency best practices to reduce water demand.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works $ Ongoing Medium
4.5 Use drought-tolerant plants when installing new or significantly redoing Cityowned landscapes. Limit turf that is not drought tolerant to recreational fields and lawns, and only in instances where no feasible drought-tolerant alternatives exist.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works,
Community
Services
$$$ Ongoing Low
Extreme Heat
5.1 Notify residents through public service announcements a couple of days in advance of a severe weather event. Focus on media methods that target vulnerable populations, such as elderly, sick, lower-income, or persons with limited mobility to better ensure they have adequate time to prepare for a heatwave in advance.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
PIO $ Ongoing Low
5.2 Implement a tree-planting program to diversify tree age and increase shaded areas in the City to reduce the effects of extreme heat events.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works,
Community
Development
$$$ TBD Medium
5.3 Expand use of public facilities (libraries, community centers, etc.) as cooling centers for vulnerable populations during extreme heat events, and assess facility needs in order to automatically open these facilities as cooling centers when temperatures exceed approximately 97 degrees (temperature threshold can be lowered at city discretion).
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Community
Services
$$ Ongoing Medium
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
104
5.4 Promote passive cooling design (brise soleil, long roof overhangs, locating windows away from southern facades, etc.) in new developments during the design review process.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Community
Development
$ Ongoing Low
5.5 Upgrade HVAC within City facilities to more efficient systems that may include split systems or decentralized systems that allow for heating and cooling the spaces needed, not entire buildings.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works $$$ TBD Medium
5.6 Evaluate the long-term capacity of designated cooling centers and shelters in the City to provide sufficient relief from extreme heat. Assess the need to expand services as the frequency, length, and severity of future heatwaves potentially change as a result of climate change.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Community
Services, Public
Works
$$ Ongoing Low
5.7 Increase the use and construction of shade structures within new developments, City facilities, parks, and trails to reduce urban heat island impacts.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Community
Development,
Public Works,
Community
Services
$$$ Ongoing Low
Flooding
6.1 Investigate permeable paving and use landscaped swales for new and replacement City-owned hardscaped areas.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, FMA
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works $ TBD Low
6.2 Require the use of porous surfaces on new and significantly retrofitted residential and commercial developments to reduce runoff.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, FMA
Grants, Other
Grants
Community
Development,
Public Works
$ Ongoing Low
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
105
6.3 Conduct frequent cleanings of storm drain intakes, especially before and during the rainy season.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, FMA
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works $ Ongoing Medium
6.4 Coordinate with Orange County Flood Control on upgrades and maintenance to storm drains and channels and expand capacity to meet future needs.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, FMA
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works $$$ Ongoing Medium
6.5 Analyze if new critical facilities can be built a minimum of 1 foot higher than the anticipated 500-year flood elevation height, to determine where it is feasible.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, FMA
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works $ TBD Low
6.6 Retrofit roadway medians to capture storm water during rain events.
Prioritize improvements to address flooding in the drainage channel along Western Ave, and near Central Park.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, FMA
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works $$$ 2025 High
Hazardous Materials Release
7.1 Discourage new sensitive land uses, including schools, parks, childcare centers, adult and senior assisted living facilities, and community centers, from locating near identified hazardous material facilities. Discourage or prohibit new hazardous material facilities from locating near sensitive land uses.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Community
Development
$ Ongoing Low
7.2 Pursue full alignment of the General Plan with policies and actions outlined in state and regional plans such as the California Accidental Release Prevention (CalARP) Program and the Orange County Fire Authority Hazardous Materials Area Plan.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Community
Development,
OCFA
$ 2023 High
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
106
7.3 Continuously inspect businesses and other properties storing hazardous materials and create an inventory of storage locations that require updates, maintenance, or renovation.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
OCFA
(Public Safety
Liaison)
$ Ongoing Low
7.4 Coordinate with hazardous materials generators/operators (So Cal Gas, Edison) regularly to understand changes to operations within the City.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
OC Health Care
Agency
(Environmental
Health)
$ Ongoing Low
Urban Fire
8.1 Promote the proper maintenance and separation of power lines and efficient response to fallen power lines.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Works
(So Cal Edison
resource)
$ Ongoing Low
8.2 Provide information and resources to residents citywide on ways to improve resilience to home fires.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
OCFA, Public
Safety
$ Ongoing Medium
8.3 Conduct regular vegetation management activities to reduce fire hazard risks, such as clearing out dead vegetation in parks, open spaces, rights-of-way, and other areas that could become fuel for fires.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
OCFA, Public
Works, Public
Safety
$ Ongoing Low
8.4 Establish thresholds for fire sprinkler installation in retrofitted buildings and structures undergoing use changes or remodel.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
OCFA,
Community
Development
$ TBD Low
8.5 Conduct regular inspections of bridges and underpasses for debris and other materials that could become a fire hazard.
General Fund,
BRIC/ HMGP
Grants, Other
Grants
Public Safety,
Public Works,
OC Sheriff
$$ Ongoing Low
* Relative Cost Categories: $ = less than $20,000 | $$ = $20,001 - $150,000 | $$$ = greater than $150,001 City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
107
CHAPTER 6 – PLAN MAINTENANCE
For this LHMP to remain effective and useful to the community of Stanton, it must remain up to date. An updated version of the LHMP will continue to guide Stanton hazard mitigation activities and help keep the City eligible for state and federal hazard mitigation funding. The HMPC has structured this LHMP so individual sections can easily be updated as new information becomes available and as new needs arise, helping to keep this Plan current.
This chapter discusses how to update this Plan to comply with applicable state and federal requirements.
This chapter also describes how the City can incorporate the mitigation actions described in Chapter 5 into existing programs and planning mechanisms and how public participation will remain an important part of Plan monitoring and future update activities.
COORDINATING BODY
The HMPC will remain responsible for maintaining and updating the Plan, including evaluating the Plan's effectiveness as needed. Members of the HMPC will also coordinate the Plan's implementation through their respective positions. Table 1-1 contains a list of current members. In future years, staff and representatives (either current Committee members or other individuals) from the following departments, districts, and agencies should be included in maintenance and update activities:
• Administration
• City Manager’s Office
• City Clerk
• City Attorney
• Personnel and Risk Management
• Finance
• Community & Economic Development
• Planning Division
• Building Division
• Economic Development
• Community Services
• Public Safety
• Code Enforcement
• Public Works & Engineering
• Engineering Division
• Maintenance Division
• Orange County Sheriff’s Department
• Orange County Fire Authority
The staff member currently serving as the HMPC leader (the person responsible for coordinating future updates) is in the Administration Department. He/she will serve as the project manager during the update process or designate this role to another staff member. The HMPC leader or their designee will coordinate City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
108
maintenance of this Plan, lead the formal Plan review and evaluation activities, direct the Plan update, and assign tasks to other members of the HMPC to complete these activities. Such tasks may include collecting data, developing new mitigation actions, updating mitigation actions, making presentations to City staff and community groups, and revising the Plan sections.
PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
The Plan's effectiveness depends on the successful implementation of the mitigation actions.
Implementation includes integrating mitigation actions into existing City plans, policies, programs, and other implementation mechanisms. The mitigation actions in this Plan are intended to reduce the damage from hazard events, help the City secure funding, and provide a framework for hazard mitigation activities.
Committee members prioritized the hazard mitigation actions in Table 5-4 in Chapter 5. These priorities will guide the implementation of these actions through new or existing City mechanisms as resources become available. The LHMP project manager is responsible for overseeing the implementation, promotion, and maintenance of this Plan and is responsible for facilitating meetings and coordinating activities related to Plan implementation and maintenance.
The key City Plans that should incorporate content from this LHMP include:
• Stanton General Plan Safety Element – this element should incorporate relevant mapping and analysis from the LHMP to ensure this plan's goals and policies are reinforced throughout future developments and projects proposed within the City.
• Stanton Emergency Operations Plan – The EOP focuses on the effective preparedness and response to hazard events that occur within the City. Incorporating relevant content from this plan into the EOP ensures consistency regarding the hazards addressed in both plans. • The Stanton Capital Improvements Program – The CIP identifies key infrastructure investments throughout the city, including hazard mitigation elements. Incorporating this plan into the CIP may enhance infrastructure investment through additional funding and/or modification of improvements to include hazard mitigation elements.
This integration of the LHMP into the Stanton General Plan also allows the City to comply with AB 2140 requirements, as identified in Chapter 1 of this plan.
PLAN MAINTENANCE PROCESS
The City’s plan maintenance process will rely on the Stanton Mitigation Implementation Handbook, located in Appendix E. The handbook is intended to function as a stand-alone document that gives concise and accessible guidance to City and Fire District staff to implement and maintain the Plan. A key component of the handbook is the specific mechanisms that the City and Fire District can use to integrate this plan into the other City planning mechanisms.
Plan Monitoring and Evaluation
When members of the Committee are not updating the Plan, they should meet at least once a year to go over mitigation action implementation and evaluate the Plan’s effectiveness. These meetings should include:
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
109
• Discussion of the timing of mitigation action implementation • Mitigation action implementation evaluation and determination of success • Mitigation action prioritization revisions, if deemed necessary • Mitigation action integration into other mechanisms, as needed The first of these meetings will be held in the 2022-2023 fiscal calendar year. To the extent possible, Committee meetings should be scheduled at an appropriate time in the City’s annual budgeting process, which will help ensure that funding and staffing needs for mitigation actions are considered.
When the Committee meets to evaluate the Plan, members should consider these questions:
• What hazard events, if any, have occurred in Stanton in the past year? What were the impacts of these events on the community? Were the impacts mitigated, and if so, how? • What mitigation actions have been successfully implemented? Have any mitigation actions been implemented but not successfully, and if so, why?
• What mitigation actions, if any, have been scheduled for implementation but have not yet been implemented?
• What is the schedule for implementing future mitigation actions? Is this schedule reasonable? Does the schedule need to be adjusted for future implementation, and are such adjustments appropriate and feasible?
• Have any new concerns arisen, including hazard events in other communities or regions not covered by existing mitigation actions?
• Are new data available to inform the Plan's updates, including data relevant to the hazard profiles and threat assessments?
• Are there any new planning programs, funding sources, or other mechanisms to support hazard mitigation activities in Stanton?
Plan Updates
The information in this Plan, including the hazard profiles, threat assessments, and mitigation actions, is based on the best available information, practices, technology, and methods available to the City and Committee when this Plan was prepared. As factors change, including technologies, community demographics and characteristics, best practices, and hazard conditions, it is necessary to update the Plan to remain relevant. Additionally, Title 44, Section 201.6(d)(3) of the Code of Federal Regulations requires that LHMPs be reviewed, revised, and resubmitted for approval every five years to remain eligible for federal benefits.
Update Method and Schedule
The update process should begin no later than four years after this Plan is adopted, allowing a year for the update process before the Plan expires. Depending on the circumstances, the LHMP project manager or designee may also choose to begin the update sooner. Some reasons for accelerating the update process may include:
• A presidential disaster declaration for Stanton or an area that includes part or the entire City • A hazard event that results in one or more fatalities in Stanton City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
110
The update process will add new and updated methods, demographic data, community information, hazard data and events, considerations for threat assessments, mitigation actions, and other necessary information, keeping the Plan relevant and current. The Committee will determine the best process for updating the Plan, which should include the following steps:
Update Adoption
The Stanton City Council is responsible for adopting this Plan and all future updates. As previously mentioned, adoption should occur every five years. The City should begin the update process at least one year before expiration to ensure the plan remains active. If the City has a grant application that relies on the LHMP, an update to the plan should occur no later than 18 months before expiration. Adoption should occur after FEMA notifies the City that the Plan is Approved Pending Adoption. Once the City Council adopts the Plan following FEMA's approval, the adopted plan should be transmitted to FEMA.
Continued Public Involvement
The City will continue to keep the public informed about the Committee’s actions to review and update the LHMP. The Committee will develop a revised community engagement strategy that reflects the City’s updated needs and capabilities. The updated strategy should include a tentative schedule and plan for public meetings, recommendations for using the City's website and social media accounts, and content for public outreach documentation. The Committee will also distribute information annually through the most appropriate method to ensure the most significant information is disseminated to residents and businesses. These updates are anticipated to occur after the City's annual HMPC meeting.
POINT OF CONTACT
The leader of the Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee (HMPC) is the one responsible for maintaining this Handbook. Unless otherwise delegated, the HMPC leader is the City Manager. The City Manager may delegate this responsibility to someone else should they so choose.
Engage the Hazard
Mitigation Planning
Committee (with at least
one member from each City
department).
Contact non-City
organizations (that
previously participated or
are interested stakeholders)
to participate in the update.
Review and update the
hazard mapping and threat
assessment for critical
facilities.
Revise the threat assessment
for populations and other
assets.
Determine what measures
have been completed,
changed, cancelled, or
postponed and review and
revise mitigation actions, as
needed.
Prepare an updated plan to
be distributed to
stakeholders and the public.
Conduct a public review
period of the Draft Plan
allowing residents and
interested stakeholders to
provide comment.
Following public review,
send a draft of the updated
plan to Cal OES and FEMA
for review and approval.
Adopt the final updated
Plan within one year of
beginning the update
process and within five years
of the adoption of the
previous Plan.
APPENDIX A HMPC MEETING MATERIALS
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan A-1
LHMP Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee Meetings: List of Invitees / Attendees X = Attended the Meeting
Name Title Department HMPC
Meeting
1 HMPC
Meeting
2 HMPC
Meeting
3 James Wren Director Public Safety X X X
Jose De La Torre Code Enforcement
Officer
Public Safety X X
Zenia Bobadilla Director Community Services X X X
Ashley Cain Community Service
Supervisor/PIO
Community Services X X X
Joseph Ames Director Public Works X X X
Scott Jensen Facilities Maintenance
Supervisor
Public Works X X
Michelle Bannigan Director Finance X X X
Jennifer Lilley Director Community & Economic
Development
x
Aneli Gonzalez Planning Technician Community Development (Planning)
X X
Jennifer Zambrano Permit Technician Community Development (Building) Cynthia Guzman HR/RM Analyst Human Resources and Risk
Management
X X
Cruz Alday Captain Orange County Sheriff's Dept. X X
Mike Petro Division 7 Chief Orange County Fire Authority X X Jeff Cole Orange County Sheriff's Dept X X
Bryan Mahon Batallion Chief: B Shift Orange County Fire Authority X X City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan A-2
Aaron Pfannenstiel LHMP Project Manager Atlas Planning Solutions X X X Crystal Stueve LHMP Planner Atlas Planning Solutions
Robert Jackson LHMP Planner Atlas Planning Solutions X X X City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan A-3
August 24, 2021
City of Stanton
2021-22 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
HMPC Meeting #1 Agenda:
1. City of Stanton Project Overview (10 minutes)
2. Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Overview (10
minutes)
3. Project Goals and Expectations (10 minutes)
4. Hazard Mitigation Planning Team Roster (10
minutes)
5. Communication Protocols (5 minutes)
6. Break (5 minutes)
7. (2022) City of Stanton LHMP (15 minutes)
8. Data Needs (Critical Facilities List, vulnerable
populations, recent/past hazards, GIS) (10
minutes)
9. Community Engagement and Outreach Strategy
(10 minutes)
10. Hazard Identification/Prioritization (20 minutes)
11. Next Steps and To-Do List (5 minutes)
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan A-4
Next Steps
Hazard Mitigation Planning Process June 2021 - March 2022 Community Outreach July 2021 - Ongoing
Administrative Draft LHMP Winter 2021
Public Review Draft LHMP Document Spring 2022
Cal OES/FEMA Review Draft Document Spring 2022
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan A-5
December 1, 2021
City of Stanton
2021-22 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
HMPC Meeting #2 Agenda:
1. Introductions
2. Review of Project Goals
3. Review of Critical Facilities
4. Review of Hazard Prioritization
5. Review of Hazard Profiles/Mapping Discussion/Threat
Assessment
6. Mitigation Strategies/Actions
7. Next Steps
Next Steps
HMPC Meeting #3 – Mitigation Action
Review/Prioritization
TBD
Community Outreach July 2021 - Ongoing
Administrative Draft LHMP Winter 2022
Public Review Draft LHMP Document Spring 2022
Cal OES/FEMA Review Draft Document Spring 2022
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan A-6
January 11, 2022
City of Stanton
2021-22 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
HMPC Meeting #3 Agenda
8. Overview of Mitigation Strategies
9. Discussion of STAPLE/E Criteria
10. Discussion of Relative Cost Estimates
11. Review and Discussion of Draft Mitigation
Strategies
12. Next Steps
Typical Mitigation Categories
Plans and Regulations
• Ordinances, Regulations
Structural Projects
• Utility Undergrounding,
Structural Retrofits
Natural Systems Protection
• Stream restoration,
erosion control
Education Programs
• Outreach materials,
websites, presentations
Preparedness and Response
Actions
• Mutual aid agreements,
equipment purchases,
notification protocols
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan A-7
Table 1: STAPLE/E Criteria
Issue Criteria
Social • Is the action socially acceptable to Stanton community members? • Would the action treat some individuals unfairly? • Is there a reasonable chance of the action causing a social disruption?
Technical • Is the action likely to reduce the risk of the hazard occurring, or will it reduce the effects of the hazard? • Will the action create new hazards or make existing hazards worse? • Is the action the most useful approach for Stanton to take, given the City's goals and community members?
Administrative • Does the City have the administrative capabilities to implement the action?
• Are there existing City staff who can lead and coordinate the measure's implementation, or can the City reasonably hire new staff for this role?
• Does the City have enough staff, funding, technical
support, and other resources to carry out
implementation?
• Are there administrative barriers to implementing the action? Political • Is the action politically acceptable to City officials and other relevant jurisdictions and political entities?
• Do community members support the action?
Legal • Does the City have the legal authority to implement and enforce the action?
• Are there potential legal barriers or consequences that could hinder or prevent the implementation of the action? • Is there a reasonable chance that implementation of the action would expose the City to legal liabilities?
• Could the action reasonably face other legal challenges? Economic • What are the monetary costs of the action, and do the costs exceed the economic benefits? • What are the start-up and maintenance costs of the action, including administrative costs?
• Has the funding for action implementation been secured, or is a potential funding source available? • How will funding the action affect the City's financial capabilities?
• Could the implementation of the action reasonably burden the Stanton economy or tax base? • Could there reasonably be other budgetary and revenue impacts to the City? City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan A-8
* Relative Cost Categories:
$ Less than $XXX
$$ $XXX to $YYY
$$$ Greater than $YYY
Next Steps
Community Outreach July 2021 - Ongoing
Administrative Draft LHMP February 2022
Public Review Draft LHMP Document Spring 2022
Cal OES/FEMA Review Draft Document Spring/Summer 2022
Environmental • What are the potential environmental impacts of the action? • Will the action require environmental regulatory approvals? • Will the action comply with all applicable federal, state, regional, and local environmental regulations?
• Will the action reasonably affect any endangered,
threatened, or otherwise sensitive species of concern?
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan A-9
APPENDIX B – OUTREACH ENGAGEMENT MATERIALS
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-1
Handout for the City of Stanton Local Hazard Mitigation Plan City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-2
Atlas Planning Solutions Local Hazard Mitigation Planning Information Booth at the annual City of Stanton Halloween Festival on October 30, 2021
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-3
2021 Stanton Hazard Mitigation Plan Survey
I. Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Survey
Dear Community Member,
The City of Stanton is preparing a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan or LHMP. Like all other communities, Stanton could potentially face widespread devastation in the event of a natural disaster. While no community can completely protect itself against all potential hazardous situations, this plan will help identify those situations, assess our current provisions, and outline a strategy to lessen the vulnerability and severity of future disasters.
Your responses to this survey will inform the preparation of the plan. Thank you for your time and cooperation.
II. Hazard Awareness
1. Please indicate whether you live or work in the City of Stanton. a. I live in the City of Stanton.
b. I work in the City of Stanton.
c. I live and work in the City of Stanton.
d. Neither applies to me, but I am interested in the City's resiliency.
2. What is the ZIP code of your home?
3. Have you been impacted by a hazard event in your current residence? a. Yes
b. No
4. If you answered yes to the previous question, please select the type of hazard event that you have been impacted by (select all that apply).
Seismic Hazards Power Failure
Drought Extreme Heat
Flooding Hazardous Materials Release
Urban Fire Dam Failure
Please list any additional hazards that have previously impacted your neighborhood or home.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-4
5. The following hazards could potentially impact the City. Please mark the THREE (3) hazards that are of most concern to your neighborhood or home.
Seismic Hazards Power Failure
Drought Extreme Heat
Flooding Hazardous Materials Release
Urban Fire Dam Failure
Please list any additional hazards that present a threat to your neighborhood or home.
6. The planning team is using various data sources to identify hazards in your community; however, some of these data sources do not provide data at a general citywide level. Are there any small-scale issues, such as ponding at a specific intersection during rain, that you would like the planning team to consider? a. I am not aware of local hazards
b. I am aware of local hazards
Please provide as much detail as possible, including location and type of hazard.
7. How concerned are you that climate change may create new hazardous situations in Stanton or make existing natural hazards worse?
a. Very concerned.
b. Somewhat concerned.
c. Somewhat unconcerned.
d. Not at all concerned.
e. Unsure.
8. If you have taken any action to protect yourself against natural hazards, how confident are you that these actions will be sufficient to protect against more severe hazards that are expected because of climate change?
a. Very confident.
b. Somewhat confident.
c. Somewhat unconfident.
d. Not at all confident.
e. Unsure.
9. When do you think climate change will pose a threat to your health, property, livelihood, or overall wellbeing?
a. It already is.
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-5
b. Within the next five years.
c. In five to twenty years
d. Not for at least another twenty years.
e. Never, or not in my lifetime.
10. If you are a homeowner, do you have adequate homeowners' insurance to cover the hazards that could impact your home?
a. Yes, my insurance coverage should be adequate.
b. No, I don't believe my insurance coverage would be adequate for a major disaster. c. Unsure.
d. I do not have an insurance policy.
e. Not applicable; I rent my current residence.
11. If you rent your residence, do you have renters' insurance? a. Yes
b. No
c. Not applicable; I own my residence.
12. Do you have flood insurance for your home?
a. Yes, I own my home and have flood insurance.
b. Yes, I rent my home and have flood insurance.
c. No, but I am interested in reviewing flood insurance options (http://www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/).
13. Have you done anything to your home to make it less vulnerable to hazards such as earthquakes, floods, and fires?
a. Yes
b. No
c. Not applicable; I rent my residence.
d. If not, do you plan to?
14. If a severe hazard event occurred today such that all services were cut off from your home (power, gas, water, sewer) and you were unable to leave or access a store for 72 hours, which of these items do you have readily available?
a. Potable water (3 gallons per person)
b. Cooking and eating utensils
c. Can opener
d. Canned / nonperishable foods (ready
to eat)
e. Gas grill / camping stove
f. Extra medications and contact lenses
(if applicable)
g. First aid kit / supplies
h. Portable AM/FM radio (solar
powered, hand crank, or batteries)
i. Handheld "walkietalkie" radios (with batteries)
j. Important family photos / documentation in a
water- and fireproof container
k. Extra clothes and shoes
l. Blanket(s) / sleeping bag(s)
m. Cash
n. Flashlight (with batteries)
o. Gasoline
p. Telephone (with batteries)
q. Pet supplies
r. Secondary source of heat
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-6
15. Are you familiar with the special needs of your neighbors in the event of a disaster situation (special needs may include limited mobility, severe medical conditions, memory impairments)? a. Yes
b. No
16. Are you a trained member of your Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)? a. Yes
b. No, but I would like to learn more about CERT.
c. No, I am not interested in being a trained CERT member.
For more information about CERT, please visit:
https://www.ci.stanton.ca.us/Departments/Public-Safety-Services/Emergency-Preparedness
17. How can the City help you become better prepared for a disaster? (choose all that apply) a. Provide effective emergency notifications and communication. b. Provide training and education to residents and business owners on how to reduce future damage.
c. Provide community outreach regarding emergency preparedness. d. Create awareness of special needs and vulnerable populations. e. Other (please specify)
If you do NOT work in the City of Stanton, please skip to question 21.
18. What is the ZIP code of your workplace?
19. Does your employer have a plan for disaster recovery in place? a. Yes
b. No
c. I don't know
20. Does your employer have a workforce communications plan to implement following a disaster, so they can contact you?
a. Yes
b. No
III. Recommendations and Future Participation
21. Would you like to be contacted when the Draft 2020 Stanton Hazard Mitigation Plan is City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-7
available for review?
a. Yes; please notify me using my contact information in the next question. b. No
22. If you would like to be notified of future opportunities to participate in hazard mitigation and resiliency planning, please provide your name and e-mail address. If you do not have an e-mail address, please provide your mailing address.
Full Name:
Email Address:
Street Address:
City, State, Zip:
23. Please provide us with any additional comments/suggestions/questions regarding your risk of future hazard events.
Thank you for taking the time to complete this survey. If you have any questions, or if you know of other people/organizations that should be involved, please contact Jarad Hildenbrand at [email protected] or Jason Huynh at [email protected] City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-8
Project Report
01 March 2021 - 24 April 2022
Let's Talk Stanton
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Highlights
TOTAL
VISITS
105
MAX VISITORS PER
DAY
17 NEW
REGISTRATI
ONS
0 ENGAGED
VISITORS
17 INFORMED
VISITORS
42 AWARE
VISITORS
85 Aware Participants 85
Aware Actions Performed Participants
Visited a Project or Tool Page 85
Informed Participants 42
Informed Actions Performed Participants
Viewed a video 0
Viewed a photo 0
Downloaded a document 0
Visited the Key Dates page 0
Visited an FAQ list Page 12
Visited Instagram Page 0
Visited Multiple Project Pages 24
Contributed to a tool (engaged) 17
Engaged Participants 17
Engaged Actions Performed
Registered Unverified Anonymous
Contributed on Forums 0 0 0
Participated in Surveys 1 0 16
Contributed to Newsfeeds 0 0 0
Participated in Quick Polls 0 0 0
Posted on Guestbooks 0 0 0
Contributed to Stories 0 0 0
Asked Questions 0 0 0
Placed Pins on Places 0 0 0
Contributed to Ideas 0 0 0
Visitors Summary
Pageviews Visitors Visits
New Registrations
1 Jan '22 1 Apr '22
100
200
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-9
Tool Type
Engagement Tool Name Tool Status Visitors
Registered Unverified Anonymous
Contributors
Survey Tool LHMP Community Survey (English) Published 33 1 0 16 Survey Tool LHMP Encuesta a la comunidad Published 1 0 0 0 Survey Tool LHMP Khảo sát cộng đồng Published 1 0 0 0
Let's Talk Stanton : Summary Report for 01 March 2021 to 24 April 2022
ENGAGEMENT TOOLS SUMMARY
0 FORUM TOPICS
3 SURVEYS
0 NEWS FEEDS
0 QUICK POLLS
0 GUEST BOOKS
0 STORIES
0 Q&A S
0 PLACES
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-10
Widget Type
Engagement Tool Name Visitors Views/Downloads
Faqs faqs 12 13
Let's Talk Stanton : Summary Report for 01 March 2021 to 24 April 2022
INFORMATION WIDGET SUMMARY
0 DOCUMENTS
0 PHOTOS
0 VIDEOS
1 FAQS
0 KEY DATES
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-11
Visitors 33 Contributors 17 CONTRIBUTIONS 17
Let's Talk Stanton : Summary Report for 01 March 2021 to 24 April 2022 ENGAGEMENT TOOL: SURVEY TOOL
LHMP Community Survey (English)
Please indicate whether you live or work in the City of Stanton 10 (58.8%)
10 (58.8%)
5 (29.4%)
5 (29.4%)
2 (11.8%)
2 (11.8%)
I live in the City of Stanton I work in the City of Stanton I live and work in the City of Stanton Question options
Optional question (17 response(s), 0 skipped)
Question type: Radio Button Question
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-12
Let's Talk Stanton : Summary Report for 01 March 2021 to 24 April 2022 Have you been impacted by any of the following hazard events in your current residence? (Please select all that apply.)
Seismic Hazards (Earthquakes) Drought Flooding Urban Fire Power Failure Extreme Heat Hazardous Materials Release I have not been impacted by any hazard events in my current residence Question options
1 2
3 4
5 6
7 8
9 10
11 12
6 4
2 1
11 6
1 5
Optional question (16 response(s), 1 skipped)
Question type: Checkbox Question
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-13
Let's Talk Stanton : Summary Report for 01 March 2021 to 24 April 2022 The following hazards could potentially impact the City. Please mark the THREE (3) hazards that are of most concern to your neighborhood or home.
Seismic Hazards (Earthquakes) Drought Flooding Urban Fire Power Failure Extreme Heat Hazardous Materials Release
Question options
2 4
6 8
10 12
14 16
15 6
3 4
12 7
3
Optional question (17 response(s), 0 skipped)
Question type: Checkbox Question
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-14
Let's Talk Stanton : Summary Report for 01 March 2021 to 24 April 2022 How concerned are you that climate change may create new hazardous situations in Stanton or make existing natural hazards worse?
5 (29.4%)
5 (29.4%)
6 (35.3%)
6 (35.3%)
5 (29.4%)
5 (29.4%)
1 (5.9%)
1 (5.9%)
Very concerned Somewhat concerned. Not very concerned. Not at all concerned.
Question options
Optional question (17 response(s), 0 skipped)
Question type: Radio Button Question
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-15
Let's Talk Stanton : Summary Report for 01 March 2021 to 24 April 2022 If you have taken any action to protect yourself against natural hazards, how confident are you that these actions will be sufficient to protect against more severe hazards that are expected because of climate change?
1 (5.9%)
1 (5.9%)
8 (47.1%)
8 (47.1%)
2 (11.8%)
2 (11.8%)
1 (5.9%)
1 (5.9%)
1 (5.9%)
1 (5.9%)
4 (23.5%)
4 (23.5%)
Very confident. Somewhat confident. Not very confident. Not at all confident. Unsure.
Not applicable; I have not taken any action to protect myself against natural hazards.
Question options
Optional question (17 response(s), 0 skipped)
Question type: Radio Button Question
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-16
Let's Talk Stanton : Summary Report for 01 March 2021 to 24 April 2022 When do you think climate change will have a negative impact on your health, property, livelihood, or overall wellbeing?
7 (41.2%)
7 (41.2%)
2 (11.8%)
2 (11.8%)
5 (29.4%)
5 (29.4%)
1 (5.9%)
1 (5.9%)
2 (11.8%)
2 (11.8%)
It already has/is. Within the next five years. In the next five to twenty years.
Not for at least another twenty years. Never, or not in my lifetime.
Question options
Optional question (17 response(s), 0 skipped)
Question type: Radio Button Question
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-17
Let's Talk Stanton : Summary Report for 01 March 2021 to 24 April 2022 If you are a homeowner, how confident are you that your homeowners’ insurance adequately covers the hazards that could impact your home? 7 (41.2%)
7 (41.2%)
7 (41.2%)
7 (41.2%)
1 (5.9%)
1 (5.9%)
1 (5.9%)
1 (5.9%) 1 (5.9%)
1 (5.9%)
Somewhat confident. Not very confident. Not at all confident. Unsure.
Not applicable; I do not have homeowners' insurance.
Question options
Optional question (17 response(s), 0 skipped)
Question type: Radio Button Question
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-18
Let's Talk Stanton : Summary Report for 01 March 2021 to 24 April 2022 If you rent your residence, do you have renters' insurance? 1 (6.3%)
1 (6.3%)
1 (6.3%)
1 (6.3%)
14 (87.5%)
14 (87.5%)
Yes No Not applicable; I own my residence
Question options
Optional question (16 response(s), 1 skipped)
Question type: Radio Button Question
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-19
Let's Talk Stanton : Summary Report for 01 March 2021 to 24 April 2022 Do you have flood insurance for your home?
2 (12.5%)
2 (12.5%)
14 (87.5%)
14 (87.5%)
Yes, I own my home and have flood insurance. No, I do not have flood insurance.
Question options
Optional question (16 response(s), 1 skipped)
Question type: Radio Button Question
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-20
Let's Talk Stanton : Summary Report for 01 March 2021 to 24 April 2022 Are you a trained member of your Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)? 2 (11.8%)
2 (11.8%)
7 (41.2%)
7 (41.2%)
8 (47.1%)
8 (47.1%)
Yes No, but i would like to learn more about CERT. No, and I am not interested in becoming a trained CERT member.
Question options
Optional question (17 response(s), 0 skipped)
Question type: Radio Button Question
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-21
Let's Talk Stanton : Summary Report for 01 March 2021 to 24 April 2022 Are you familiar with the special needs of your neighbors in the event of a disaster situation?
4 (23.5%)
4 (23.5%)
13 (76.5%)
13 (76.5%)
Yes No
Question options
Optional question (17 response(s), 0 skipped)
Question type: Radio Button Question
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-22
Let's Talk Stanton : Summary Report for 01 March 2021 to 24 April 2022 If a severe hazard event occurred today, cut your home off from all services (electricity, gas, water, sewer), and left you unable to leave or access a store for 72 hours (3 days), which of these items do you have readily available? (Please select ...
Potable water (3 gallons per person) Cooking and eating utensils Can opener Canned / nonperishable foods (ready to eat) Gas grill / camping stove Extra medications and contact lenses (if applicable) First aid kit / supplies Portable AM/FM radio (solar-powered, hand-crank, or battery-powered) Handheld “walkie-talkie” radios (with batteries) Important family photos / documentation in a water- and fire-proof container Extra clothes and shoes Blanket(s) / sleeping bag(s) Cash Flashlight (with batteries) Gasoline Telephone (with batteries) Secondary source of heat Pet supplies
Question options
2 4
6 8
10 12
14 16
18 10
16 16
13 11
8 11
8 3
9 15
13 12
13 3
9 3
7
Optional question (17 response(s), 0 skipped)
Question type: Checkbox Question
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-23
Let's Talk Stanton : Summary Report for 01 March 2021 to 24 April 2022 Does your employer have a disaster recovery plan in place? 4 (40.0%)
4 (40.0%)
1 (10.0%)
1 (10.0%)
5 (50.0%)
5 (50.0%)
Yes No I don't know
Question options
Optional question (10 response(s), 7 skipped)
Question type: Radio Button Question
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-24
Let's Talk Stanton : Summary Report for 01 March 2021 to 24 April 2022 Does your employer have a workforce communications plan to implement following a disaster, so that they can contact you?
7 (70.0%)
7 (70.0%)
3 (30.0%)
3 (30.0%)
Yes I don't know
Question options
Optional question (10 response(s), 7 skipped)
Question type: Radio Button Question
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-25
Let's Talk Stanton : Summary Report for 01 March 2021 to 24 April 2022 How can the City help you become better prepared for a disaster? (Please select all that apply.)
Provide effective emergency notifications and communication.
Provide training and education to residents and business owners on how to reduce future damage from hazard events.
Provide community outreach regarding emergency preparedness.
Promote awareness of special needs and vulnerable populations. Other (please specify) Question options
2 4
6 8
10 12
14 16 15
13 12
10 1
Optional question (16 response(s), 1 skipped)
Question type: Checkbox Question
City of Stanton 2022 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan B-26
Let's Talk Stanton : Summary Report for 01 March 2021 to 24 April 2022 Would you like to be contacted when the Draft 2021 Stanton Hazard Mitigation Plan is available for review?
8 (50.0%)
8 (50.0%)
8 (50.0%)
8 (50.0%)
Yes No
Question options