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HomeMy WebLinkAboutContracts & Agreements_21-1993_CCv0001.pdf This Agreement is made and entered into this 18th day of May 1), 1993 , by and between Blankenship Land Company, Inc. , a California corporation (hereinafter "Company") and the City of Redlands, a municipal corporation (hereinafter "City") . RECITALS WHEREAS, Company has proposed to construct a development project commonly referred to as the Hidden River County Club Estates Project ("Project") ; and WHEREAS, at the request of Company, and in accordance with its guidelines for implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act (110EQA11) , City has undertaken preliminary environmental work for the Project in the form of a notice of preparation and an initial study and has proposed to contract with The Chambers Group, Inc. ("CGI") for the preparation of an environmental impact report ("EIR") for the Project; and WHEREAS, CGI has provided to Company and City a written estimate of the costs associated with the preparation of the EIR and Company has agreed to reimburse City for such costs; and WHEREAS, Company and City desire by the terms and conditions of this Agreement to set forth the procedures for Company's full reimbursement to City of all costs City incurs in connection with preparation of the EIR; NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises contained herein, and for other good and valuable consideration the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, Blankenship Land Company, Inc. and the City of Redlands agree as follows: DJM165450 AGREEMENT Section 1. Payment of City Costs. Company shall reimburse City for all costs incurred by City in connection with the preparation of an EIR and associated environmental documents for the Project. Company's initial reimbursement to City shall be for the sum of eighty two thousand five hundred dollars ($82, 500) for the work described in the contract between City and CGI, a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit "All and incorporated herein by this reference. In addition to such sum, Company shall pay to City an amount equal to twenty percent (20%) of the total costs incurred by City in connection with preparation of the EIR and associated documents for the Project to offset City' s costs of reviewing and administering the EIR. Payment of the initial reimbursement and City's associated administrative costs shall be made in accordance with the following schedule: (a) Seventy percent (70%) upon City's execution of the contract described in Exhibit "All with CGI; and (b) Thirty percent (30%) upon delivery of a screen check draft EIR to City by CGI. Section 2. Additional Costs. In the event City and CGI from time to time determine that additional work over and above that described in Exhibit "All should be done for the Project, City and CGI shall enter into written amendments to the contract attached as Exhibit "All which fully describe such additional work and the costs associated therewith. Company shall be responsible for full reimbursement of city's costs associated with such work and City' s costs in reviewing and administering the work. Company DJM165450 ry , shall make payment to City for such costs at the time of City's execution of any amendments to the contract attached as Exhibit "A. It Section 3 . Suspension of Work. City shall have the unilateral right to suspend work under both this Agreement and the agreement attached hereto as Exhibit "A"" in the event City, in its sole discretion, determines that Company is in breach of any of the terms or conditions hereof. In the event City suspends work pursuant to this section, City shall promptly give written notice to Company of such suspension and the reasons therefor. Section 4. Termination. Company and City shall each have the right to terminate this Agreement upon ten (10) days prior written notice to the other. In the event this Agreement is terminated for any reason, Company shall reimburse City for any and all costs incurred by City, but not reimbursed by Company, as of the termination date. Section 5. Governing Law.Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of California. Section 6. Attorneys' Fees. In the event any action is commenced to enforce or interpret the terms or conditions of this Agreement, the prevailing party shall, in addition to any costs or other relief, be entitled to recover its reasonable attorneys" fees. Section 7. Indemnity. Company shall defend, indemnify and hold harmless City, its elected officials, officers, agents and employees from and against any and all loss or liability by any DJM165450 _3 reason of property damage, personal injury, death or other damage arising out of or in connection with the performance of the terms or conditions of this Agreement. Section 8. Limitation of Liability. Company expressly acknowledges and agrees that City has entered into this Agreement to prepare and process the EIR solely as a courtesy to Company. Company further acknowledges and agrees that it has not filed any application with City for review or approval of any land use entitlement for the Project. The description of, and the data for, the Project has been furnished to City by Company and City shall be under no obligation to Company to independently review for accuracy such description or data. In no event shall City be liable to Company or any other person or entity for any incidental, special or consequential damages in connection with or arising out of City's entry into this Agreement. DJM165450 Section 9. Entire Agreement. This Agreement represents the entire agreement of the parties hereto as to the matters r referred to herein. This Agreement shall be amended only by 101 11, written agreement executed by the parties hereto. CITY OF REDLAN S� By: aygr, lands ATTEST By: g , BLANKENSH LAND C ANY,=' �NC. By: `Ma I. Blankenship J/ President, Board of Directors ATTEST r By: Secretar to the bard WM165450 AGREEMENT This agreement is made and entered into this 13th the day of April 1993 by and between the CHAMBERS GROUP, INC. (hereinafter referred to as "CGP') and the CITY OF REDLANDS, (hereinafter referred to as "City"). I. PURPOSE. The purpose of this Agreement is to establish the terms and conditions for CGI's preparation of an Environmental Impact Report ("EIR") pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA"). II. GENERAL A. Incorporated of Documents This Aureement incorporates the following documents which are made a part hereof by this reference: Scope of Work and Services (Attachment A) ► Schedule of Fees (Attachment B) B. Conflicts in Documents City shall dive written notice to CGI within twenty one (21) days after execution of this Aueement of any conflicts it determines exist among or between the above referenced documents. Failure to provide such written notification shall not result in the waiver of any rights of City. Recommendations by City for interpretation, clarification,resolution,or correction I of of the documents shall accompany the notification of conflict and shall not be implemented without CGI and City written approval. III. PRICE Compensation for the services performed by CGI under this Agreement shall not exceed 82,500.00, unless increased by written amendment to the Scope of Work and Services, executed by the parties hereto. IV. APPLICABLE LAW This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of California. No rights, remedies and warranties available to CGI or City under this. Agreement or by operation of law are waived or modified unless expressly waived or modified by CGI or City in writing. V. SEVERABILITY If any provision of this ,agreement is held invalid by a court of competent :jurisdiction, such invalidity shall not affect any other provision of this agreement, and the remaining provisions of this Agreement Shall remain in full force and effect. Therefore, the provisions of this Agreement are and shall be deemed severable. of 8 VI. TERMINATION, SUSPENSION, AND CHANGES IN SCOPE OF WORK A. Termination In the event City terminates this Agreement for any reason prior to complete and final delivery of all products and services specified in the Scope of Nark and Services, City shall reimburse CGI for actual expenses incurred by CCI to that date. CGI shall stop work immediately upon receiving written notice frorn City that services shall be terminated and the date of receipt by CGI of the notice shall constitute the date of termination. B. Suspension of Work In the event City suspends work for any reason, CGI agrees to immediately suspend work upon receipt of written notice, from the City until further written notice from City to resume work is received by CCI. City shall reimburse CCI for actual expenses incurred by CGI to that date. If such suspension results in unavoidable increases in costs, an equitable adjustment to the price of this Agreement will be negotiated with City in accordance with Subsection C of this paragraph. C. Amendment to Scope of Work or Schedule No amendment shall be rade to this Agreement except by written agreement executed by CGI's Project Manager or Project Principal and an authorized representative for City. Amendment of the Scope of Work and Services Schedule of Fees or Agreement price shall only occur as set forth in this paragraph. In the event. City provides written notice to CCI of a proposed amendment of the work requirement, under this Agreement, as soon as possible, but in no event later than one week after receipt of the proposed amendment. CGI shall provide written notice to City of the amount of any price increase or decrease dare to such change, supported by 3 of 8 full and complete documentation. CGI shall also propose any adjustment in the Schedule of Work and Services set for completion of the entire work that is directly attributable to the change of work. VII. ADJUSTMENTS TO COMPENSATION FOR SUSPENSION OF WORK OR AMENDMENTS TO THE COPE OF WORK OR SCHEDULE A. Adjustment to Compensation or Schedule If City agrees to adjustments to compensation proposed by CGI for suspension of work or amendments to the Scope of Work and Services or Schedule of Fees according to the provisions of Section VI, then CGI shall proceed with the work at the, agreed price and Schedule of Work and Services as amended. CGI does not Hereby waive the right to further pursue a claim for a cost or schedule adjustment if such adjustment is warranted by actual work required and documentation supporting the extent of such necessary work is performed in accordance with all applicable requirements of this Agreement, including any amendments hereto. VIII. SCHEDULE AND DELIVERABLE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES A. Schedule CGI's performance under this Agreement shall be completed in accordance with the Scope of Work and Services described in Attachment A. B. Deliverable Products and Services The Scope of Work and Services, set forth in Attachment A, describe.:, the deliverable products and services CGI shall provide, under this Agreement. Deliveries of products shall be made on or before: the dates specified in Attachment A. If a delay in delivery is caused 4 of 8 by unforeseeable events beyond the control and without the fault or negligence of CGI, CGI shall not be liable for such delays. CGI shall notify the City in writing of any delays and the reasons thereof. All deliverable products and services shall be in accordance with generally accepted standards within the industry. Ix. FORCE MA EURE Neither City nor CGI shall be deemed to be in default in the performance of the terms of this Agreement if either party is prevented from performing by causes beyond its control, including, but not limited to: acts of God or the public enemy, interference, -rulings or decisions by municipal, federal, state or other governmental agencies, boards or commission; any laws and/or regulations of such municipal, state, federal, or other governmental bodies; any catastrophe resulting frorn flood, fire, explosion, or other causes beyond the control of the defaulting party. If any of the stated contingencies occur, the party delayed by force majeure shall immediately give the other party or parties written notice of the cause of the delay. The party delayed by force majeure shall use reasonable diligence to correct the cause of the delay, if correctable, and if the condition that caused the delay is corrected, the party delayed shall immediately ggive the other party or parties written notice thereof and shall resume, operations under this Agreement. In the event of a delay or other actions of the state instrumentalities,departments, or agencies which delay or other actions result in additional work. costs, or expenses incurred by CGI, and equitable price adjustment may be negotiated to cover such increased costs of work, provided that CGI can clearly demonstrate the nature and amount 5 of of such increases in cost. Disagreements as to adjustments to compensation or schedule will be resolved as defined in paragraph VI. X. INDEMNITY A. City shall defend, indemnify and hold harmless CGI, its officers. agents and. employees from any loss or liability by reason of property damage, personal injury or death arising out of City's negligent acts or omissions in performing its obligations under this Agreement. B. CGI shall defend, indemnify and hold hanrlle.ss City, its elected officials, officers, agents, employees and attorneys from and against any loss or liability by reason of properly damage, personal injury or death arising out of CGI, its agents wid employees negligent acts or omissions in performing their obligations under this Agreement. XI. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY In no event shall CGI be liable to City for incidenttl, special or consequential damages in connection with or arising out of its entry into this Agreement or the furnishing of products or services hereunder. XII. QUALITY All delivered products and services shall be as described irr Attachment A and are subject to approval by City within a reasonable time after- delivery. If delivered products acid 6ofl services are not acceptable to the City, CGI shall endeavor to correct any documented deficiencies within a reasonable tirne after being notified of said deficiencies. XIII. PROGRESS PAYMENTS AND INVOICIN(T Unless otherwise agreed to in writing, payment shall be made utilizing the following schedule of payments: ► Thirty percent (30%) on contract initiation ' Thirty percent (30%) on delivery of Scree.ncheck Draft EIR to City by CGI ► Ten percent (10%) on circulation of Draft EIR to State Clearinghouse by CGI ► Twenty percent (20%) on delivery of Screenche.ck Final ETR to City by CGI ► Ten percent (10%) on decision by City Council or three months after deliv=ery of Screencheck Final EIR to City by CGI, whichever occurs first. Payment is due not later than thirty (30) days from the date the invoice is received by the City. XIV. EFFECTIVE DATE This Agreement shall not become effective until the City and the applicant for the Project enter into and execute a written agreement relating to the funding and processing; of the Environmental Impact Report, XV. ENTIRE AGREEMENT This Agreement, to4gether with Attachments and materials referenced herein. constitutes the entire agreement of the parties hereto as to the matters contained herein. 7 of CHAMBERS GROUP, INC. CITY OF REDLA.NDS 1--1 BY: G r Thomas C. Ryan Mayas C of s w- TITLE: Vice President ATTEST: ... City Clerk, .�._ of 8 EXHIBIT A - SCOPE OF WORK AND SERVICES The proposed project will require approvals at the local, county. state, and federal levels. Upon completion of the Initial Study on this project, it was determined by the City of Redlands that an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) is to be prepared in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). This contract covers the preparation of an EIR, but does not cover the preparation of a focused or full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) or Environmental Assessment (EA) per NEPA should one be determined to be necessary at some later point in this contract period. This contract will cover the evaluation of environmental impacts that result from the development of the proposed Hidden River Country Club Estates Specific Plan dated December 1991, and as described in the Initial Study released by the City of Redlands in September of 1992. Any action or description of proposed actions by the U.S. Anny Corps of Engineers (COE) regarding the use of this property for flood control purposes is not covered or implied by this Scope of Work, and Services. As the proposed project covers parcels of land that are not under the control of die applicant or the City of Redlands, the project applicant shall be responsible for obtaining permission from affected property owners allowing Chambers Group and its Subcontractors access to the properties in question to allow analysis of these areas. 1. GENERAL APPROACH Preparation of a fully adequate EIR will require the completion of several important steps from study initiation through development of the project description and Draft EIR, to attendance at public hearings and Final EIR preparation. All of the necessary tasks are discussed in the following sections. 1.1 Review of Project Information The content of the EIR will relate to several inputs. Inputs on scope will be, obtained front responses to the Notice of Preparation/Initial Study that was distributed to responsible agencies and other interested parties identified by the City of Redlands (City). Close coordination with the City of Redlands will also be undertaken to assure that all environrnental issues of concern to the City are addressed in the EIR. Consultation will also be conducted with the COE relative to this project. From the Initial Study prepared for this project and a review of other available documents, the following ten resources will be evaluated in the EIR: I ► Earth Resources ► Air Quality ► Hydrology ► Biology ► Noise ► Aesthetics ► Land Use ► Transportation/Circulation ► Public Services ► Cultural Resources Chambers Group and its subcontractors will also undertake a comprehensive review of project information to determine whether there are additional potential environmental impacts which should be addressed in the EIR. Such additional environmental issues may result from information contained in the EA prepared by the COE for a portion of the project site, the Redlands Southeast General Plan Amendment and EIR, the Redlands General Plan and MEA/EIR, and other available technical reports. The City shall specify upon contract execution its preference for which General Plan should be used in the evaluation of impacts; either the existing General Plan, or the current Draft General Plan. Chambers Group will also independently evaluate information provided by the applicant or his representative to the City. Chambers Group will provide the City with a written description of any deficiencies in the provided information as well as our opinions as to whether the NOP process has identified additional environmental impacts which should be evaluated. 1.2 Preparation of Special Studies Chambers Group and its subcontractors will prepare the following special studies in support of the EIR: biological resources, cultural resources (including paleontology), traffic and circulation study, air quality and noise studies, and geotechnical evaluation. These studies will be completed as part of the assessment of baseline conditions for the Draft EIR. The scope of these studies are discussed under the appropriate resource technical approach included in Section 2. 1.3 Preparation of the Screencheck Draft EIR 1.3.1 Development of the Project Description We will develop the project description based on the applicant's Specific Plan documentation, design specifications for the proposed sediment basins, and other information provided to the City by the applicant as part of the Specific Plan review process. The project description will summarize and illustrate, the various elements of the proposed project including residential character, commercial uses, use of open space, recreational facilities, circulation characteristics. utility and drainage design, as well as phasing of the project. We will also summarize the proposed development standards, landscaping plan, grading plan, and other relevant elements of 2 the proposed project. This project description will be a summary of the Hidden River Country Club Estates Specific Plan document. It is assumed that the Specific Plan will be available for review or purchase at the City if detailed information is needed, and that the Specific Plan will not be circulated as part of the EIR. Chambers Group will work with City staff in developing a list of projects in the Redlands area to be used for development of the cumulative impact analysis. This list will include existing, proposed, approved and reasonably foreseeable projects for the region impacted by the project and will incorporate General Plan projections. 1.3.2 Description of Existing Conditions The existing environment will be characterized from the existing literature base as well as from field studies. We intend to conduct studies for the following resource areas: cultural resources and paleontology, biology, traffic and circulation, air quality, and noise. Chambers Group Will also independently evaluate the existing data base provided by studies and reports which have been prepared by the applicant's consultants. Regional information will generally be compiled from the available databases including the City of Redlands' General Plan and its elements, and SCAG reports. We will coordinate closely with the City staff during preparation of the baseline studies. Any action or description of proposed actions by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) regarding the use of this property for flood control purposes is not covered or implied by this Scope of Work and Services. 1.3.3 Environmental Impact Analysis Through our experience in preparing comprehensive EIRs for residential and mixed-use specific plan projects, Chambers Group has developed a formalized process of impact analysis. A key element in the impact analysis will be the identification of those adverse se impacts that are considered significant. We will develop a set of impact significance thresholds for each resource area identified (see Section 1.11). These criteria will be quantitative wherever possible, and will include an explanation of how each measure was derived. These measures will also be written so that they can be understood by the general public. Adverse impacts that meet and/or exceed these thresholds will be considered significant. Additionally, all impacts will be characterized as relating to project construction or operations and Will be quantified in terms of short-tenn and long-term impacts. 1.3.4 Mitigation Measures Mitigation measures will be identified for all significant adverse impacts. The effectiveness of these mitigation measures will be determined by measuring the residual impact after application of the mitigation measures against the same criteria used for determining impact significance. In this manner, we can determine whether significant impacts have been reduced to insignificant levels. 1.,3.5 Cumulative Impacts The overall cumulative impacts will be identified for all resource discipline issues identified in Section 1.1 and discussed in detail in Section 2. Significance will be determined using the same criteria as defined for the proposed project impacts and mitigation measures.` The contribution of the proposed project to the overall cumulative impact will also be estimated and discussed:. The cumulative project baseline will be developed early in the study (see Section 1.3.1). 1.3.6 Analysis (if Alternatives A full range of alternativeswill be considered, and will be reviewed and agreed to by the City: As required by the City of Redlands, Local Guidelines for the Impl mentat on of CEQA, "the discussion of alternatives shall focus on alternatives capable of eliminating any significant adverse environmental effects or reducing there to a level of insignificance..." We will address the no project alternative ,as required by CEQA, and will consider other alternatives that address and reduce the significance of all impact identified in the EIR. 'T'hese alternatives may include alternative'densities, alternative land uses; or variations in the specific plan such as landscaping, land usage, limiting building heights, minimum lot size and considering ether uses of the area. 1.3.7 Other CEQA Sections Chambers Group will provide all other required sections as outlined in the CEQA Guidelines for the EIR document. A key element will be the discussion of the growth inducement that may result from the proposed project. 1..3.5 Compilation of the Scr encheck Draft EIR The sections described above will be compiled into a complete EIR document in the, format preferred by the City of Redlands, This contract does not cover the preparation of a full or focused EIS or EA. If a NEPA document is required, a aendnient to this contract will be necessary. Tern (10) copies of the Screenc heck Draft EIS will be submitted to the City o Redlands for review by the Cite, 4 1.4 Preparation of the Draft EIR The City staff's comments on the Screencheck FIR will be reviewed and discussed with City staff as appropriate. Pertinent changes to the EIR will be tirade and orte (1) camera ready copy of the EIR document, and Technical Appendices, will be submitted to the City for printing and distribution. If desired, Chambers Group, Inc. will also prepare a Notice of Completion for City signature which will be submitted with FIR copies. Printing and distribution of the Draft FIR are not included in this contract. 1.5 Public Hearings and Meetings A representative of Chambers Group will attend eight (8) public hearings before the Environmental Review Committee, eight(8)public hearings before the Planning Commission and four (4) public hearings before the City Council relative to the proposed project. The City of Redlands has determined that no scoping hearing will be needed. 1.6 Preparation of the Final EIR Chambers Group will prepare responses to all written and oral comments to the Draft EIR and modify the Draft EIR where required. A screencheck Final EIR will be prepared. The Screencheck Final and Final FIR will be prepared as a addendum docurnent, and direct changes to the Draft EIR document and recirculation of the Draft EIR with the Final documents is not included in this contract. The City will be provided with ten (10) copies of the Screencheck Final EIR for review. Upon revision of the screencheck, if required, one (1) camera ready copy of the Final EIR will be submitted to the City for printing and distribution. Printing and distribution of the Final FIR are zn not included in this contract. 1.7 Preparation of Supporting Documentation Chambers Group will prepare draft findings of significant impact for use in supporting any required statements of overriding consideration by the City. 1.8 Mitigation Monitoring Plan As mandated by state law, mitigation monitoring and enforcement will be required. Chambers Group will provide one (1) carnera ready copy of a mitigation monitoring plan at the time of submittal of the Final FIR which will include all potential mitigation measures. Chambers Group has prepared a number of monitoring plans for various agencies and will work with staff to prepare the monitoring plan in the format preferred by staff. 5 2. TECHNICAL APPROACH TO ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES The following information provides the detailed technical scope and approach to the analysis of identified environmental issues (Section 1.1). The analysis of the issue areas requiring special study will be prepared in the form of a technical paper or report, allowing individual review by City staff. These will be presented as appendices in the Draft EIR. Technical discussion will then be incorporated into the format of the EIR as provided above. 2.1 Earth Resources 2.1.1 Issues The main portion of the project site is located along the San Tirnoteo Creek bed on an alluvial plain, with the project site sloping steeply (>30%) upward along the north side. Geotechnical issues on the site include high erosion potentials, unstable soils (Saugus soils), possible high water table, and impacts associated with seismic events. 2.1.2 Analysis Existing conditions in the regional project area and characteristics of J Z7� geology, seismicity and soils will be presented based on existing literature and the geotechnical study to be prepared by Zeiser Geotechnical, a subcontractor to Chambers Group. The purpose of the geotechnical study prepared by Zeiser Geotechnical is to compile literature information and surface mapping data on the site, estimate workability and stability of the soil and rock units, identify site constraints and opportunities with respect to the proposed development concept, and discuss the impact of each on the proposed land use change with mitigation measures, if applicable, in accordance with CEQA and the State Department of Conservation, Division of Mines and Geology (CDMG) Note 46 guidelines. The findings and recommendations prepared by Zeiser would also identify areas or conditions in need of further investigation during future phases of planning. The scope of the services provided by Zeiser Geotechnical are as follows: ► preliminary geotechnical evaluation and review of any available geotechnical reports. publications or professional literature pertinent to the project site-, ► Analysis of time-sequential stereoscopic aerial photograph pairs; Generalized geologic map verification of surface features documented in the available C� literature and in the aerial photographs. It is assumed that the applicant will provide Chambers Group with appropriate scale topographic maps of the site and surrounding environs. 6 ► EIR-level limited subsurface exploration, logging, and sampling, and estimation of current natural groundwater levels, utilizing a hollow stem drill rig to drill a maximum of four Z�' exploritory soil borings to a maximum depth of 50 feet; ► EIR-level limited subsurface exploration, logging, and sampling of a maximum of 12 trenches at depths up to 15 feet, utilizing a John Deere 310-C rubber tire backhoe adapted to sample using the ASTM method of a 140-pound harnn-ier dropping 30" to obtain ring samples as well as the standard penetration method; ► Perform limited laboratory testing including maximum density, natural density and moisture, consulidation, and g=rain size analysis, ► Compilation of estimated areal and regional seismicity potential, including locations and distances to potentially active or active faults, strong ground motion criteria for the site, and potential for the occurrence of secondary seismic phenomena-, ► Geologic and engineering analysis/review of the compiled field, publication and literature data with respect to the propose land use change-, and, ► Preparation of a Geotechnical Study Report for use in EIR preparation. The report will contain summary descriptions of geotechnical conditions and features as well as the findings, constraints, and appropriate mitigation measures. The compiled geotechnical conditions would be illustrated on a topographic boundary map of the site. Grading for structure pads and infrastructure will alter existing landforms on the site. Slope and soil studies will be prepared for the project. Impacts resulting in possible erosion control problems and other issues will be presented. The project also will be analyzed for seismicity, slope stability, liquefaction, and landslides due to its close proximity to the San Andreas fault and regionally significant active and potentially active faults in the area. Impacts related to these issues will be presented and discussed. The Specific Plan will be analyzed for its infrastructure placement in relationship to active and potentially active faults, identified landslides and slope stability. Mitigation measures will be identified which may include the realignment of infrastructure to reduce the possibility of rupture or failure during seismic events. Cumulative geologic and soils issues will be presented. 2.2 Air Quality 2.2.1 Issues The proposed project will generate mobile and some stationary exhaust emissions as well as dust emissions associated with construction activities. The quantity of emissions from the land use 7 plan will be significantly greater than the levels of emissions currently generated. The proposed project, in conjunction with other projects in the area could have cumulative air quality impacts. 2.2.2 Analysis Existing air quality for the area will be characterized using available data from the closest air quality monitoring station. We will also characterize the meteorological conditions on the site Z-1 with special emphasis on wind patterns. Construction activities have the potential to create substantial dust-related impacts because of the potential for high winds in the area. This potential will be estimated and the significance evaluated. Mobile source emissions will be calculated based on the anticipated vehicular traffic generated by the proposed project. Emissions will be estimated using the URBEMIS 2 computer model as updated with the most recent EMFAC 7 California composite auto emissions sub-model. Project emissions levels will be related to regional emissions levels associated with the project area as depicted in the Air Quality Management Plan. Technique for estimation of emissions will also follow approved SCAQMD directives and will incorporate consideration of emission significance thresholds. Mitigation measures for construction-related impacts will center around dust control measures such as limiting the extent of grading and use of dust control chemicals. Mitigation measures for project-generated mobile emissions will be addressed in terms of transportation strategies and other standard techniques. The cumulative air quality impacts associated with the proposed project and cumulative projects will be evaluated. The significance of the cumulative effect on the air quality will be based on consistency with regional transportation objectives and the Air Quality Management Plan. 2.3 Hydrology and Water Quality/Supply tly 2.3.1 Issues Implementation of the proposed regional surface reg project will have major impacts on local and J Z__ and subsurface hydrology, both positive and negative, For surface flows, issues include water quality, quantity of surface flows, concentration of flows, and regional flood control. For 47 subsurface hydrology, issues include impacts on water quality, change in percolation rates, interruption of flows, and overall impacts on well water. 8 2.3.2 Analysis The applicant's specific plan consultant has prepared a surface hydrological study for the project. The applicant's surface hydrological study will be independently evaluated by Chambers Group in order to assure that hydrological impacts are, fully disclosed in the EIR. It is assumed that the applicant's consultant will provide Chambers Group with two copies of the project's surface hydrological report. This report will cover quantity, velocity and direction of surface flows, analysis of regional flood control, and design of flood control facilities. Chambers Group will analyze existing hydrological conditions on the site and downstrearn of the site including delineation of floodplains and existing flood control structures. We will evaluate the hydrological impact associated with the proposed project from the perspective of flooding impacts to future- struettires of the Specific Plan site, on-site and regional drainage facilities that will be required, and the analysis of increased runoff on downstream flooding potential. To the extent that these impacts are adequately covered in the existing hydrology study, we will incorporate or provide analysis to address the issue. Chambers Group and its subconsultant. Zeiser Geotechnical, will prepare a subsurface hydrology report for use in the ETR evaluation. This study will analyze and document the impacts of the project on subsurface water quantity and quality. This report will document existing wells in the area and the potential for the project to adversely impact these wells. The study will also quantify the project's impacts on percolation, and determine the net gain or loss attributable to the project. Impacts on groundwater from urban contamination (i.e. roadway runoff, etc.) will z not be qualitatively evaluated and reported. Evaluation and characterization of subsurface hydrology will be based on existing data for the area. No testing, drilling or other field quantification is proposed. Mitigation measures in the form of new drainage systems, retention basins, sedimentation basins. and/or alternative drainage features will be described. General measures for improvement of the quality of urban runoff will be presented. The overall cumulative Impact to drainage, flood plains and water quality and quantity will be addressed as well. 2.4 Biological Resources 2.4.I Issues The proposed project will result in the loss of native vegetation and wildlife Including elimination of potential riparian habitat areas and coastal sage scrub habitats, and potential disruption of major wildlife corridors. Sensitive plant and animal species as well as endangered/threatened plant and animal species could be affected, by project development. 9 2.4.2 Analysis Reconnaissance level Surveys of the site will be conducted to document existing conditions. Existing information from other sources will be used to verify the existing vegetation and habitat Z, I Zn mapping. A full species list of plants and animals potentially supported by habitats on-site will be prepared. A narrative describing the biological resources will also be prepared. We will identify the potential for sensitive/listed species and sensitive habitats for plant and animal species including bird species. Because of the timing of the EIR, we may be unable to verify the existence of certain species that have potential habitat on-site. The biological impact of the proposed project will be analyzed based on the amount and type of habitat lost. We will also address the impact or potential impact to endangered, threatened or sensitive species at the site. Wildlife- corridors will be identified and potential impacts of the proposed project on wildlife corridors will be identified and mitigated if necessary. The proposed fuel modification plan (plant species proposed to be use.) will be evaluated for its impacts on plant and animal species. Mitigation measures will be identified for all significant impacts. Zl The project's impacts related to an increase in ambient noise levels and light and glare will be evaluated for its effects on wildlife. The proposed project site is very near in proximity to known habitat for the Stephen's kangaroo rat (SKR). If potential habitat for this species and other signs point to the potential for this animal to exist on-site, a detailed survey by a qualified biologist may be necessary. The cost of this survey is not included in this contract, and an amendment would be necessary to cover thhe cost of this type of analysis. The overall cumulative effect of the loss of biological resources in the greater area will be addressed. 2.5 Noise 2.5.1 Issues The proposed project will generate construction and traffic related noise as well as noise Z__ associated with proposed land uses. These impacts may have an adverse impact on existing land uses. In addition. the project site lies near a Southern Pacific rail line, and potential noise impacts on the proposed land uses will also be evaluated. 2.5.2 Analvsis Noise sources and sensitive receptors for the study area will be identified through field survey, Noise measurements will be obtained at the existing site as well as from a completed 10 development similar to that proposed. Emphasis will be placed on the identification of noise levels from vehicular traffic and planned land uses. Noise related impacts from project construction will be identified using accepted noise criteria applicable to construction equipment. The emphasis will be on identifying any sensitive receptors affected by such noise. Additionally, we will analyze the potential noise impacts associated with vehicular travel on arterial roadways in and near the site. Such noise levels will be modelled using the F.H.W.A Traffic Noise Prediction Model in conjunction with the latest California Vehicle Noise curves(CALVENO-85). Noise contours for future traffic levels will be developed. Project noise impacts will be related to the County of San Bernardino land use compatibility guidelines and appropriate mitigation measures will be developed. Though construction noise is non-nally subject to the nuisance provisions of a noise ordinance, it may be necessary to consider limiting construction hours of operation if sensitive uses are affected. Potential mitigation for project-generated traffic includes the construction of noise barriers, use of building setbacks, and selecting alternative roadway alignments or alternative roadway designs. The existing noise from the Southern Pacific rail line adjacent to the project site will also be modeled to 1.determine if excessive noise may impact the proposed residential uses. The cumulative noise impacts in the area including vehicular noise, aircraft noise, and other noise sources will be assessed. 2.6 Aesthetics/Light and Glare 2.6.1 Issues The proposed project could create an adverse visual impact associated with grading or provision of structures on land which is now essentially open. The proposed project will also introduce light and glare into an area that currently does not experience Such an impact. Light and glare impacts will also be discussed in the Biological Resources section of the EIR in relation to its impacts on wildlife and wildlife corridors in the Specific Plan area. 2.6.2 Analysis The general existing visual characteristics of the project site and surroundings will be presented in narrative and graphic forni (photographs and computer model). Impacts will be discussed in narrative and graphic forn-i, Care will be taken to identify sensitive viewpoints of the project site which are existing and which will be affected by project development. Since modification of landforn-is will be necessary as a part of site gradingsignificant artificial slopes may be visible from surrounding areas. Aesthetic Impacts resulting from construction and 1l development of the Specific Plan area will be assessed with emphasis on any impacts to primary viewpoints and adjacent land uses. The issue of the loss of open space will also be addressed. The Specific Plan design guidelines will be evaluated for their ability to mitigate such impacts. Additional measures to mitigate aesthetic impacts, such as visual buffers or screening will be Z7 proposed as appropriate. Measures to reduce impacts from light and glare may include the requirement of lower height light standards and shielding of outdoor lighting. The cumulative effects of this and other proposed and reasonably foreseeable projects in the area will be addressed. 2.7 Land Use (Including Open Space, Recreation) 2.7.1 Issues The project will be evaluated for consistency with the City's General Plan (the City shall specify upon contract execution its preferrence for which General Plan should be used in the evaluation of impacts, either the existing General Plan, or the current Draft General Plan) on a goals and policies level. Compatibility with surrounding uses. including other open space, will also be evaluated. These environmental issues will be discussed in the EIR and mitigated as necessary. 2.7.2 Analysis The existing on-site and surrounding land uses as well as zoning and General Plan designations will be thoroughly described and delineated. General Plan goals and policies that pertain to the I thoroughly site will be presented (including open space and recreation uses). We will identify the impact of conversion of open space areas into higher intensity residential and commercial uses both on-site and on adjacent parcels. Potential conflicts between adjacent uses will also be addressed. Mitigation measures will be presented for identified impacts. It would be most desirable for such mitigation to be incorporated into the Specific Plan, but this may not be possible in all instances. Infrastructure mitigations will be presented in the utilities/public services section, but may be related to mitigations for impacts resulting from land use density increases. An overlapping discussion will be presented in the land use section. The cumulative land use impacts will be analyzed with emphasis upon the potential for future, additional growth in the area. 2.8 Transportation/Circulation 2.8.1 Issues The proposed development will create traffic conditions which may result in significant impacts from increased traffic generation. These impacts could be associated with both on-site and existing off-site circulation systems. 2.8.2 Analysis For purposes of assessing transportation/circulation impacts associated with the proposed project, the Chambers Group and it traffic subcontractor, Robert Kahn, John Kain and Associates, will work with the City's Traffic Engineer in modeling traffic impacts. In reviewing the project with the City Engineers office, the following six intersections plus the two project access points will be evaluated. The six intersections proposed to be analyzed are as follows: ► Alessandro Road at San Tirnoteo Canyon Road ► Alessandro Road at West Sunset Drive ► Barton Road at San Timoteo Canyon Road ► Fern Avenue at San Tirnoteo Canyon Road ► Fern Avenue at Terracina Boulevard Robert Kahn, John Kaln and Associates will prepare a traffic study pursuant to the City and CMP guidelines for traffic impact analysis (TIA) reports, The analysis of traffic and level of service will be provided for the following conditions and will include an assessment for traffic mitigation requirements. ► Existing Conditions - Recent traffic counts will be complied from available traffic studies. An inventory of existing transportation conditions, including traffic volumes and level of service of key intersections indicated above will be provided for AM/PM peak hour. Determination of existing levels of service (LOS) will be based upon the Highway Capacity Manual (HCM'). The relationship to the general plan will be identified, including plans for ultimate number of lanes, new roadways planned for the future, and other information that provides a context for how the proposed project interrelates with the future planned transportation system. Existing deficiencies will be identified. ► Project Generated Trips - The project's trip generation, trip distribution and traffic assignment to the adjoining highway system will be identified. LOS at the eight intersections identified above will be determined for existing plus project traffic using the HCM methodology. A growth-factoring process based on historical trends will be utilized to account for areawide growth. Accepted growth rates provided by the City for intersections and segments will be used. 13 ► Future Conditions - Future conditions will undergo analysis for the "with-project" condition using cumulative projects to be included with the project. Trip generation, trip distribution and traffic assignment for cumulative projects will be identified. Levels of Service - A comparison of traffic volumes with or without the project at up to eight intersections will be provided for peak hours or hours analysis analy being studied. This Z.,:` I will be based on the procedures identified in the 1985 Highway Capacity Manual and subsequent modifications. ► Project Contribution To Total New Volumes - The ratio of traffic generated by the proposed development to the total new traffic generated between the existing condition and the forecast year for each analyzed link or intersection will be computed. The purpose of this calculation is to identify the proportion of volume increase that can be attributed to the proposed project over the 2010 horizon year. Mitigation - Mitigation of project impacts will be identified. If a level of service problem cannot be mitigated due to physical or other environmental constraints, funds may be allocated to improvements on parallel facilities or to transit, TDM or other system-wide improvements in accordance with the approved list developed by the air districts (Section 65089.3 California Government Code). The traffic impact analysis in the EIR will incorporate the traffic study and will consider changes in trip generation, traffic circulation, AM and PM traffic count data, ingress and egress aspects, and other aspects such as signalization and parking needs. The assessment will identify AM and PM peak hour traffic volumes with all issues related to traffic congestion and level of service addressed. Consideration will also be given to off-site and on-site circulation. The assessment will also consider the requirements for construction of off-site roadways. The consistency of the project with the City's Circulation Element and the approved Sunset Hills Specific Plan will be addressed. The roadway system within the project site will be checked for adequacy of free flow of people and vehicles. Measures to mitigate any additional significant adverse impacts will be identified. These measures may include traffic control improvements, signalization, adjustments to land use configuration as well as other standard traffic engineering solutions. Recommendations for off- site improvements, including phasing will be made. Measures to improve consistency with the City Circulation Element, particularly relating to Congestion Management- will be incorporated I - as appropriate. 14 2.9 Public Services and Utilities 2.9.1 Issues Impacts on public services and utilities, i.e., water and sewer facilities, solid waste facilities, schools, police, fire protection, libraries, parks and recreation, energy resources (electricity and natural gas) and communications will result from project development. Of particular concern is the impact to schools, emergency response time and availability of the police and fire equipment and personnel, and the water and wastewater system. Environmental impacts due to the construction of off-site trunk service lines will not be evaluated in this EIR since locations and amounts of disturbance will not be known until plans for these improvements are prepared. Separate environmental evaluations may be needed for these off-site facilities. Issues that have to do with storm water drainage and flooding and water quantity and quality will be addressed in other sections. 2.9.2 Analysis We will describe the levels of service provided by public service agencies and utility companies applicable to the project site. The public services to be analyzed include police and fire protection, schools, libraries, and parks and recreation. The public utilities to be analyzed include water, wastewater, electricity, natural gas, communication systems and solid waste. This analysis will measure current capacities and projected capacities without the project against the requirements that would result with the project. The public services and utilities analysis will include the broad issues of supply and include estimates of the extent of any required new facilities. The impacts on the regional ability to provide such services/utilities will be discussed and a preliminary analyses of fiscal responsibility for any improvements will be made. A full range of mitigation measures will be identified to mitigate those significant public service impacts including the provision of easements, infrastructure,, water conservation and reuse, and mitigation fees for construction/installation of additional schools and other services. We will identify the cumulative public service impacts based on projected cumulative projects within the overall service area of each public service or utility. We will also examine the cumulative effects of y energuse from all developments in the region. Z" 2.10 Archaeological/Paleontological/Historic Resources 2.10.1 Issues Implementation of the project could result in significant impacts to prehistoric, historic, and paleontological resources. Other surveys in the area, and historic plat maps point to the possible location of resources on-site. 15 2.10.2 Analysis Chambers Group staff will conduct a records search for both prehistoric and historic sites with the San Bernardino County Museum, and will review available literature on the area. Personal contacts may also be necessary with local historians to complete the record of the area. Upon completion of this step, Chambers Group staff will conduct a reconnaissance survey of the project site to determine the potential for historic and prehistoric resources. Any resources or signs will be documented and evaluated for significance. For paleontological resources, we will utilize the John Cooper, PhD, for an archival records and literature review, as well as an on-site survey with emphasis placed upon the paleontological significance of the area. We will take this information and will identify any known paleontological sites as well as address the potential for the occurrence of formations containing paleontological resources. All cultural. historical and paleontological analyses will be integrated into the EIR. Mitigation measures including avoidance or recommendations for further site excavation, if appropriate, will be identified to protect any resources affected by implementation of the proposed project. This contract does not cover any Subsurface testing or recovery of resources. If sign of cultural resources are found, and subsurface testing or recovery of resources is determined to be needed in order to fully describe impacts or determine impact significance related to the proposed project, an amendment to the Scope of Work and Services per Section VI.C. of this contract will be necessary. 16 3. SCHEDULE FOR HIDDEN RIVER COUNTRY CLUB ESTATES EIR Time from Previous Steps Step Deterrnined by City Approve contract for FIR Determined by City Initiate work on Screencheck Draft FIR 10 weeks Submit Screencheck Draft EIR to City 3 weeks City review of Screencheck Draft FIR 3 weeks Circulate Draft EIR 7 weeks Public review of Draft FIR 3 weeks Submit Screencheck Final EIR to City 3 weeks ERC Public Hearing, on Draft FIR 4 weeks Planning Commission hearing on Draft FIR 3 weeks City review of Screencheck Final FIR 2 weeks Submit Final FIR to City Determined by City ERC recorni-nendation on Final EIR Determined by City City Council action on Final FIR 17