HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-06-05; Beach Preservation Commission; 02; Regional Beach Sand Project III UpdateMeeting Date: June 5, 2025
To: Beach Preservation Commission
From: Kyle Lancaster, Parks & Recreation Director
Staff Contact: Nick Stupin, Parks Planning Manager
nick.stupin@carlsbadca.gov, 442-339-2527
Subject: Regional Beach Sand Project III Update
Recommended Action
Receive an informational report and presentation from the San Diego Association of
Governments (SANDAG) staff on the status of the Regional Beach Sand Project III (RBSP III).
Executive Summary/Explanation & Analysis
SANDAG is the Metropolitan Planning Organization for the San Diego region and plays a key
role in the regional coordination of a variety of projects. The San Diego region has 19
jurisdictions, 10 of which are in the coastal zone and collectively manage approximately 70
miles of coastline that can be accessed via transit, highways, roadways, and bicycle and
pedestrian facilities.
Over the past 40 years, the forces of nature and development have led to the steady erosion of
the region’s coastline with the loss of sand on the county’s beaches being one of the most
noticeable effects. As part of the Shoreline Management and Monitoring programs, SANDAG
and its partners have worked for several decades to monitor and address shoreline
management problems with projects to preserve this vital resource.
In July 1993, the "Shoreline Preservation Strategy for the San Diego Region" was adopted by
SANDAG as a long-term strategy, for restoring the regional beaches. The vision sets out
objectives, policies, and recommendations for executing a coordinated list of solutions for each
of the region's shoreline areas.
In September 2001, SANDAG implemented and completed the RBSP I, which placed at 12
eroded beaches, 2.1 million cubic yards of clean, beach-quality sand from Imperial Beach to
Oceanside. The success of the RBSP I, which was a pilot project, demonstrated the feasibility of
beach replenishment in the San Diego region and achieved the objective of replenishing the
region's beaches while at the same time not negatively impacting the environment.
In December 2012, the RBSP II added 1.5 million cubic yards of new sand to Imperial Beach,
Oceanside, Encinitas, Cardiff and Carlsbad beaches. In particular, Carlsbad beaches received an
June 5, 2025 Item #2 1 of 40
estimated 350,000 cubic yards of sand from the RBSP II. The RBSP II was another success,
further demonstrating the feasibility of beach replenishment and achieving its objective.
The State of California identified beach nourishment as a nature-based climate solution, to
which the San Diego region demonstrated a commitment. SANDAG’s 2021 Regional Plan
includes a Sustainable Communities Strategy to promote nature-based climate solutions as a
climate adaptation strategy.
In addition to SANDAG successfully administering RBSP I in 2001 and RBSP II in 2012, SANDAG
has an established regional forum - the Shoreline Preservation Working Group - where elected
officials are engaged in regional adaptation projects, such as beach nourishment.
Representatives of several coastal cities on the Shoreline Preservation Working Group have
joined the effort to participate and contribute to RBSP III. SANDAG staff have committed to
coordinating this project with city staff, City Council Members who serve on the Shoreline
Preservation Working Group, and other technical advisors.
Implementation of RBSP III would involve dredging beach-quality sand from offshore borrow
sites and placing it on eroded beaches in the region. Beach nourishment is considered a sea-
level rise adaptation strategy by several cities in the region, who have updated their Local
Coastal Programs to align with the California Coastal Commission’s guidance on sea-level rise.
On April 4, 2023, the Beach Preservation Commission received a presentation and
recommended that the City Council approve a Memorandum of Understanding between
SANDAG and the City of Carlsbad Regarding Preliminary Planning Activities for a RBSP. On May
9, 2023, the City Council adopted a resolution approving that Memorandum of Understanding,
and approved the allocation and appropriation of $64,677 of grant funds from an Agricultural
Conversion Mitigation Fee Fund (Exhibit 1).
In early May 2025, the SANDAG Shoreline Preservation Working Group Members and staff
reviewed and commented on the RBSP III, Phase I – Preliminary Planning Activities: Draft
Feasibility Study and Economic Analysis Report. Those comments will be reviewed at the June
5, 2025, SANDAG Shoreline Preservation Shoreline Working Group Meeting.
Next Steps
Staff will remain in communication with SANDAG staff regarding developments on the RBSP III.
Staff will also include an agenda item for the Commission on the RBSP III at a significant
milestone, and invite SANDAG staff to the meeting to provide an updated presentation.
Exhibits
1.April 4, 2023 Beach Preservation Commission staff report
2.May 9, 2023 City Council staff report
June 5, 2025 Item #2 2 of 40
Meeting Date: April 4, 2023
To: Beach Preservation Commission
From: Kyle Lancaster, Parks & Recreation Director
Staff Contact: Michael Tully, Parks Planner
michael.tully@carlsbadca.gov, 442-339-5724
Subject: Memorandum of Understanding Regarding Preliminary Planning Activities
for a Regional Beach Sand Project
Recommended Action
Receive a presentation and recommend the City Council approve a Memorandum of
Understanding Between San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) and the City of
Carlsbad Regarding Preliminary Planning Activities for a Regional Beach Sand Project.
Background
SANDAG is the Metropolitan Planning Organization for the San Diego region and plays a key
role in the regional coordination of a variety of projects. The San Diego region has 19
jurisdictions, 10 of which are located in the coastal zone and collectively manage approximately
70 miles of coastline which can be accessed via transit, highways, roadways, and bicycle and
pedestrian facilities.
In July 1993, the "Shoreline Preservation Strategy for the San Diego Region" was adopted by
SANDAG as a long-term strategy, for restoring the regional beaches. The vision sets out
objectives, policies, and recommendations for executing a coordinated list of solutions for each
of the region's shoreline areas.
In September 2001, SANDAG implemented and completed the Regional Beach Sand Project
(RBSP) I, which placed at 12 eroded beaches, 2.1 million cubic yards of clean, beach-quality
from Imperial Beach to Oceanside. The success of the RBSP I, which was a pilot project,
demonstrated the feasibility of beach replenishment in the San Diego region and achieved the
objective of replenishing the region's beaches while at the same time not negatively impacting
the environment.
In December 2012, the RBSP II added 1.5 million cubic yards of new sand added to Imperial
Beach, Oceanside, Encinitas, Cardiff and Carlsbad beaches. In particular, Carlsbad beaches
received an estimated 350,000 cubic yards of sand from the RBSP II. The RBSP II was also a
success, again demonstrating the feasibility of beach replenishment and achieving the above-
mentioned objective.
April 4, 2023 Item #2 1 of 8
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #2 3 of 40
Discussion
The State of California has also identified beach nourishment as a type of nature-based climate
solution, to which the San Diego region has demonstrated a commitment. SANDAG’s 2021
Regional Plan includes a Sustainable Communities Strategy to promote nature-based climate
solutions as a climate adaptation strategy.
The City of Carlsbad’s Strategic Plan (2023-22027) incorporates by reference the Carlsbad
Community Vision, which is made up of nine core values.
The following of those core values are tied to beach nourishment in Carlsbad:
•Small town feel, beach community character and connectiveness
•Open space and the natural environment
•Access to recreation and active, healthy lifestyles
•The local economy, business diversity and tourism
•Walking, biking, public transportation and connectivity
•Sustainability
Additionally, the following of the strategic plan goals are tied to beach nourishment in Carlsbad:
•Community Character
o Maintain Carlsbad’s unique community character and connectiveness
•Quality of Life & Safety
o Prioritize the safety and well-being of the community
•Sustainability & the Natural Environment
o Protect the environment and natural resources
•Economic Viability
o Foster a healthy local economy
SANDAG proposes to conduct a feasibility study for a RBSP III, which would use information
from SANDAG’s Round 1 SB 1 Caltrans Adaptation Planning Grant effort to identify
transportation facilities that will be impacted by sea-level rise and may benefit from beach
nourishment. Implementation of the RBSP III would involve dredging beach quality sand from
offshore borrow sites and placing it on highly eroded beaches in the San Diego region. Beach
nourishment is being considered as a sea-level rise adaptation strategy by several cities in the
San Diego region who have updated their Local Coastal Programs to align with the California
Coastal Commission’s Guidance on sea-level rise.
According to SANDAG, wide beaches can help protect coastal communities and coastal
transportation facilities by acting as a buffer to alleviate some of the impacts from sea-level
rise, strong storm events, and high tides. Further, multiple benefits, including recreational,
economic, and public safety enhancements, protection of infrastructure, and increases in
habitat, are cited as results of beach nourishment.
April 4, 2023 Item #2 2 of 8
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #2 4 of 40
In addition to SANDAG successfully administering RBSP I in 2001 and RBSP II in 2012, SANDAG
has an established regional forum - the Shoreline Preservation Working Group - where elected
officials are engaged in regional adaptation projects, such as beach nourishment.
Representatives of several coastal cities on the Shoreline Preservation Working Group have
expressed an interest in initiating the RBSP III. SANDAG staff have committed to coordinating
with city staff, City Council Members who serve on the Shoreline Preservation Working Group,
and other technical advisors on this project.
SANDAG will be responsible for overall project management and administration and will play a
role in coordinating with local jurisdictions as well as drafting and editing the feasibility study.
The consultant hired by SANDAG will be responsible for the majority of other tasks including
the review of existing monitoring data, completing the offshore borrow site survey plan,
completing the economic analysis, and finalizing the feasibility study.
On March 27, 2023, staff received a revised draft Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
between the City of Carlsbad and SANDAG regarding Preliminary Planning Activities for a
Regional Beach Sand Project. Similar MOUs were executed prior to the implementation of
RBSP I and RBSP II. The proposed MOU for a RBSP III states in part:
• The first Phase of a RBSP III would be preliminary planning activities that include
updating the Feasibility and Economic Analysis done in 2007 at an estimated cost of
$200,000 in preliminary planning activities for the RBSP III, which is requested to be paid
by the region; and
• The preliminary planning activities…include updating the feasibility study and economic
analysis done in 2007, determining lessons learned, identifying streamlining and cost
saving options, and estimating the total cost for engineering, environmental and
construction for a RBSP III (Preliminary Planning Activities); and
• The allocation of funds among the coastal cities (City of San Diego, City of Carlsbad, City
of Encinitas, City of Imperial Beach, City of Oceanside, City of Del Mar and City of Solana
Beach, together the “Coastal Cities”) should be based upon the number of miles of
coastline within each city, which is a method used for the Regional Shoreline Monitoring
Program that is currently funded by the Coastal Cities; and
• SANDAG requires a written funding commitment for each participating Coastal City prior
to work beginning on the Preliminary Planning Activities; and
• This MOU does not and is not intended to commit any of the parties to working on any
portion of the RBSP III beyond the stage of Preliminary Planning Activities; and
• The City of Carlsbad has 6.50 miles of shoreline within San Diego County which is 32.34
percent of the region’s coastline equaling a total contribution of $64,677 (Proportional
Share) for Preliminary Planning Activities necessary for the development of RBSP III; and
• The parties wish to memorialize their agreement in this MOU to carry out the purposes
set forth above.
April 4, 2023 Item #2 3 of 8
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #2 5 of 40
Sufficient funds are available in the Parks Maintenance Operating Budget to address the City of
Carlsbad’s contribution of $64,677 (Proportional Share) for Preliminary Planning Activities
necessary for the development of a RBSP III. Staff is recommending the Commission
recommend the City Council approve a MOU Between San Diego Association of Governments
and the City of Carlsbad Regarding Preliminary Planning Activities for a Regional Beach Sand
Project.
Exhibits
1. Memorandum of Understanding Between San Diego Association of Governments and the
City of Carlsbad Regarding Preliminary Planning Activities for a Regional Beach Sand Project
April 4, 2023 Item #2 4 of 8
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #2 6 of 40
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
BETWEEN SAN DIEGO ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS
AND THE CITY OF CARLSBAD
REGARDING PRELIMINARY PLANNING ACTIVITIES FOR A
REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
SANDAG CONTRACT NO. S1156850
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is made and entered into effective as of the last
signature date below, by and between the San Diego Association of Governments (“SANDAG”) and the
City of Carlsbad.
RECITALS
WHEREAS, in 1996, SANDAG adopted the Shoreline Preservation Strategy (Strategy) that
outlines an extensive beach building and maintenance program for the critical shoreline erosion areas in
the region, containing a comprehensive set of recommendations on the beach building program and on
financing and implementation; and
WHEREAS, in 2001, SANDAG successfully implemented a Regional Beach Sand Project (RBSP)
that placed 2.1 million cubic yards of sand on 12 beaches in the San Diego region; and
WHEREAS, in 2012, SANDAG successfully implemented a second Regional Beach Sand Project
(RBSP II) that placed 1.5 million cubic yards of sand on 8 beaches in the San Diego region; and
WHEREAS, in 2021, SANDAG adopted the 2021 Regional Plan, which includes a Sustainable
Communities Strategy that promotes nature-based climate solutions as a climate adaption strategy; and
WHEREAS, the State of California has identified beach nourishment as a type of nature-based
climate solutions; and
WHEREAS, the San Diego region is committed to implementing the Strategy; and
WHEREAS, the region’s coastal cities representatives on the SANDAG Shoreline Preservation
Working Group have expressed an interest and desire to initiate a Regional Beach Sand Project III
(RBSP III); and
WHEREAS, a number of benefits, including recreational, economic, and public safety
enhancements, protection of infrastructure, and increases in habitat, would occur as a result of beach
nourishment; and
WHEREAS, the first Phase of a RBSP III would be preliminary planning activities that include
updating the Feasibility and Economic Analysis done in 2007 at an estimated cost of $200,000 in
preliminary planning activities for the RBSP III, which is requested to be paid by the region; and
WHEREAS, the preliminary planning activities as identified in attachments to this MOU include
updating the feasibility study and economic analysis done in 2007, determining lessons learned,
identifying streamlining and cost saving options, and estimating the total cost for engineering,
environmental and construction for a RBSP III (Preliminary Planning Activities); and
WHEREAS, the allocation of funds among the coastal cities (City of San Diego, City of Carlsbad,
City of Encinitas, City of Imperial Beach, City of Oceanside, City of Del Mar and City of Solana Beach,
April 4, 2023 Item #2 5 of 8
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #2 7 of 40
2
together the “Coastal Cities”) should be based upon the number of miles of coastline within each city,
which is a method used for the Regional Shoreline Monitoring Program that is currently funded by the
Coastal Cities; and
WHEREAS, SANDAG requires a written funding commitment for each participating Coastal City
prior to work beginning on the Preliminary Planning Activities; and
WHEREAS, this MOU does not and is not intended to commit any of the parties to working on
any portion of the RBSP III beyond the stage of Preliminary Planning Activities; and
WHEREAS, the City of Carlsbad has 6.50 miles of shoreline within San Diego County which is
32.34 percent of the region’s coastline equaling a total contribution of $64,677 (Proportional Share) for
Preliminary Planning Activities necessary for the development of RBSP III; and
WHEREAS, the parties wish to memorialize their agreement in this MOU to carry out the
purposes set forth above;
AGREEMENT
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises set forth herein, the parties agree as
follows:
SANDAG AGREES:
1. To use the City of Carlsbad’s Proportional Share solely to pay for Preliminary Planning Activities to
evaluate the potential for RBSP III, which includes an investigation of offshore sand sources and
preliminary project design for the preparation of a regional beach sand project. Funds will be kept
by SANDAG in an interest-bearing account with interest credited to City of Carlsbad prorated to
reflect its contribution to the Preliminary Planning Activities as compared to each Coastal City’s
contributions, until the completion of the Preliminary Planning Activities. Unused funds will be
returned to each Coastal City on a similarly pro-rated basis.
2. To retain the original records for at least 5 years from the date of the Preliminary Planning Activities
completion and make them available to the City of Carlsbad upon request.
3. To not proceed beyond the first phase of Preliminary Planning Activities without assurances that
each participating Coastal City has entered into a subsequent memorandum of understanding
reflecting the jurisdiction’s desire and commitment to participate in the RBSP III, reflecting
approvals of appropriations for the phases of the RBSP III after Preliminary Planning Activities, the
aggregate of which will fund the RBSP III.
4. Neither City of Carlsbad, nor any officer thereof is responsible for any damage or liability occurring
by reason of anything done or omitted to be done by SANDAG under or in connection with any work,
authority, or jurisdiction delegated to SANDAG under this MOU. It is understood and agreed that,
pursuant to Government Code Section 895.4, SANDAG shall fully defend, indemnify, and save
harmless City of Carlsbad, all officers, and employees from all claims, suits, or actions of every name,
kind, and description brought for or on account of injury (as defined in Government Code Section
810.8) occurring by reason of anything done or omitted to be done by SANDAG under or in
connection with any work, authority, or jurisdiction delegated to SANDAG under this MOU.
April 4, 2023 Item #2 6 of 8
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #2 8 of 40
3
CITY OF CARLSBAD AGREES:
5. The City of Carlsbad will approve an appropriation of $64,677, such amount being its Proportional
Share to SANDAG for the Preliminary Planning Activities, which funds will be paid to SANDAG prior
to the start date of the Preliminary Planning Activities.
6. The City of Carlsbad understands and agrees that the proportionate amount may decrease, or
increase based upon the participation of other Coastal Cities in the Preliminary Planning Activities,
but any increase beyond $64,677, will require and is subject to subsequent approval by the City
Council or designee.
7. Neither SANDAG nor any officer thereof is responsible for any damage or liability occurring by
reason of anything done or omitted to be done by City of Carlsbad under or in connection with any
work, authority, or jurisdiction delegated to City of Carlsbad under this MOU. It is understood and
agreed that, pursuant to Government Code Section 895.4 as well as the terms of this MOU, City of
Carlsbad shall fully defend, indemnify, and save harmless SANDAG, its Board of Directors, all its
officers, and all its employees from all claims, suits, or actions of every name, kind, and description
brought for or on account of injury (as defined in Government Code Section 810.8) occurring by
reason of anything done or omitted to be done by the City of Carlsbad under or in connection with
any work, authority, or jurisdiction delegated to City of Carlsbad under this MOU.
THE PARTIES MUTUALLY AGREE:
1. That all obligations of SANDAG under the terms of this MOU are subject to the appropriation of the
required resources by SANDAG and the approval of the SANDAG Board of Directors.
2. Any notice required or permitted under this MOU may be personally served on the other party, by
the party giving notice, or may be served by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the following
addresses:
For SANDAG For [Insert Name Of Other Party]
401 B Street, Suite 800 [Insert Address1]
San Diego, CA 92101 [Insert Address2]
Attn: Courtney Pesce Attn: [Insert Name]
3. This MOU shall continue in effect unless and until a party to the MOU gives 60 (sixty) days written
notice of its desire to withdraw from the MOU.
4. In accordance with Public Utilities Code section 132354.1(b)(4), all parties shall maintain and make
available for inspection all books, documents, papers, accounting records, emails and other
evidence pertaining to the performance of the Agreement, including but not limited to, the costs of
administering the MOU to the SANDAG Independent Performance Auditor. All parties shall make
such materials available at their respective offices at all reasonable times during the MOU period
and for three years from the date of final payment under the MOU.
5. The indemnification and defense provisions of this MOU shall survive termination of the MOU.
6. This MOU shall be interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of California. If any action is
brought to interpret or enforce any term of this MOU, the action shall be brought in a state or
federal court situated in the County of San Diego, State of California.
April 4, 2023 Item #2 7 of 8
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #2 9 of 40
4
7. All terms, conditions, and provisions hereof shall inure to and shall bind each of the parties hereto,
and each of their respective heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns.
8. For purposes of this MOU, the relationship of the parties is that of independent entities and not as
agents of each other or as joint ventures or partners. The parties shall maintain sole and exclusive
control over their personnel, agents, consultants, and operations.
9. No alteration or variation of the terms of this MOU shall be valid unless made in writing and signed
by the parties hereto, and no oral understanding or agreement not incorporated herein shall be
binding on any of the parties hereto.
10. Nothing in the provisions of this MOU is intended to create duties or obligations to or rights in third
parties to this MOU or affect the legal liability of the parties to this MOU.
11. Nothing in the provisions of this MOU commits either of the parties to working on and/or providing
additional funding for any portion of the beach sand replenishment project beyond the stage of
preliminary planning activities.
12. This MOU may be executed in any number of identical counterparts, each of which shall be
deemed to be an original, and all of which together shall be deemed to be one and the same
instrument when each party has signed one such counterpart.
13. This MOU may be executed and delivered by electronic signature.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties hereto have executed this MOU effective as of the last date
a party provides an electronic signature below.
SAN DIEGO ASSOCIATION OF
GOVERNMENTS
[INSERT FULLNAME OF OTHER PARTY]
COLEEN CLEMENTSON
Chief Deputy Executive Director
[INSERT NAME]
[Insert Title]
APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Office of General Counsel Legal Counsel
Exhibits:
• Project Scope of Work
• Project Budget
• Project Schedule
April 4, 2023 Item #2 8 of 8
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #2 10 of 40
Memorandum of Understanding on
Preliminary Planning Activities for a
Regional Beach Sand Project
Kyle Lancaster, Parks & Recreation Director
Parks and Recreation Department
April 4, 2023
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #2 11 of 40
RECOMMENDED ACTION
•Receive a presentation and recommend the
City Council approve a Memorandum of
Understanding Between San Diego Association
of Governments (SANDAG) and the City of
Carlsbad Regarding Preliminary Planning
Activities for a Regional Beach Sand Project
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #2 12 of 40
BACKROUND
•SANDAG is the Metropolitan Planning Organization
for the San Diego region and plays a key role in the
regional coordination of a variety of projects
•10 of the region’s jurisdictions are in the coastal
zone and collectively manage approximately 70
miles of coastline
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #2 13 of 40
BACKROUND
•In 1993, a "Shoreline Preservation Strategy for the
San Diego Region" was adopted by SANDAG as a
long-term strategy, for restoring regional beaches
•The strategy sets out objectives, policies, and
recommendations for executing a coordinated list
of solutions for each of region's shoreline areas
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #2 14 of 40
DISCUSSION
•The state has identified beach nourishment as a
type of nature-based climate solution, to which
the region has demonstrated a commitment
•SANDAG’s 2021 Regional Plan includes a
Sustainable Communities Strategy to promote
nature-based climate solutions
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #2 15 of 40
COMMUNITY VISION
•The City of Carlsbad’s Strategic Plan (2023-2027)
incorporates by reference the Carlsbad
Community Vision, made up of nine core values
•Six core values and four strategic plan goals are
tied to beach nourishment in Carlsbad
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #2 16 of 40
CORE VALUES
•Small town feel, beach community character and
connectiveness
•Open space and the natural environment
•Access to recreation and active, healthy lifestyles
•The local economy, business diversity and tourism
•Walking, biking, public transportation and connectivity
•Sustainability
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #2 17 of 40
STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS
•Community Character
o Maintain Carlsbad’s unique community character
and connectiveness
•Quality of Life & Safety
o Prioritize the safety and well-being of the community
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #2 18 of 40
STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS
•Sustainability & the Natural Environment
o Protect the environment and natural resources
•Economic Viability
o Foster a healthy local economy
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #2 19 of 40
COMMISSION MISSION STATEMENT
To advise the City Council and the City Manager on
matters related to erosion prevention and
protection/enhancement of the Carlsbad shoreline
(e.g., littoral cells, sea level rise et.al.), and to study
the best means to maintain beaches for the safety
and optimum enjoyment of the public
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #2 20 of 40
SANDAG REPRESENTATIVES
•Keith Greer
o Manager –Environmental Compliance
•Courtney Pesce
o Regional Planner II
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
Exhibit 1
June 5, 2025 Item #2 21 of 40
CA Review ___AF___
Meeting Date: May 9, 2023
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Scott Chadwick, City Manager
Staff Contact: Kyle Lancaster, Parks & Recreation Director
kyle.lancaster@carlsbadca.gov, 442-339-2941
Subject: Memorandum of Understanding Regarding Preliminary Planning
Activities for a Regional Beach Sand Project
District: All
Recommended Action
Adopt a resolution approving the Memorandum of Understanding between the San Diego
Association of Governments and the City of Carlsbad regarding Preliminary Planning Activities
for a Regional Beach Sand Project, and approving the allocation and appropriation of $64,677 of
grant funds from the Agricultural Conversion Mitigation Fee Fund.
Executive Summary
A regional beach sand project involves dredging beach quality sand from offshore sites and
placing that sand on highly eroded beaches in along the San Diego County coast. The San Diego
Association of Governments successfully managed beach sand projects in 2001 and in 2012.
The San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) has a regional forum, the Shoreline
Preservation Working Group, through which elected officials are engaged in regional adaptation
projects, such as beach nourishment. Representatives of several coastal cities on this working
group have expressed an interest in initiating a third regional beach sand project. SANDAG has
committed to coordinating with those cities’ staff, the City Council members on the working
group, and other technical advisors to carry out the preliminary planning activities needed for
the Regional Beach Sand Project III.
Staff are recommending the City Council approve the Memorandum of Understanding between
SANDAG and the City of Carlsbad regarding Preliminary Planning Activities for a Regional Beach
Sand Project, and approving the allocation and appropriation of $64,677 of grant funds from
the city’s Agricultural Conversion Mitigation Fee Fund. The City Council’s approval of the
memorandum is required because there is no municipal code section or resolution authorizing
the City Manager or the Mayor to approve of such interagency memorandums.
May 9, 2023 Item #11 Page 1 of 18
Exhibit 2
June 5, 2025 Item #2 22 of 40
Explanation & Analysis
Background
SANDAG is the metropolitan planning organization for the San Diego region and plays a key role
in regional coordination of a variety of projects. The San Diego region has 19 jurisdictions, the
county and its 18 cities, 10 of which are located in the coastal zone and collectively manage
approximately 70 miles of coastline.
In 1993, SANDAG adopted the Shoreline Preservation Strategy for the San Diego Region as a
long-term vision for restoring the regional beaches. The vision sets out objectives, policies, and
recommendations for executing a coordinated list of solutions for each of the region's shoreline
areas of concern.
In 2001, SANDAG managed Regional Beach Sand Project I, which placed 2.1 million cubic yards
of clean, beach-quality sand at 12 eroded beaches, from Imperial Beach to Oceanside. Carlsbad
beaches received an estimated 382,625 cubic yards of sand from the project. The success of
that pilot project demonstrated the feasibility of beach replenishment in the region. The project
met the objective of replenishing the region's beaches, while at the same time not negatively
impacting the environment.
SANDAG managed Regional Beach Sand Project II in 2012, which placed 1.5 million cubic yards
of sand added to Imperial Beach, Oceanside, Encinitas, Cardiff and Carlsbad beaches, with
Carlsbad beaches receiving an estimated 350,000 cubic yards of sand. The project again met the
objective of replenishing the region's beaches, while at the same time not negatively impacting
the environment.
Wide beaches can help protect coastal communities and coastal transportation facilities by
acting as a buffer to alleviate some of the impacts from sea-level rise, strong storm events and
high tides. Multiple benefits of beach nourishment have been identified, including recreational,
economic, and public safety enhancements, protection of infrastructure and increases in
habitat. Beach nourishment is also considered a sea-level rise adaptation strategy by several
cities in the San Diego region, which have updated their local coastal programs to align with the
California Coastal Commission’s guidance on sea-level rise.
Regional Beach Sand Project III
SANDAG will be responsible for overall project management and administration of Regional
Beach Sand Project III, and will play a role coordinating with local jurisdictions and drafting and
editing the feasibility study. The consultant hired by SANDAG for the first phase of the project
will be responsible for most of the other tasks, including reviewing the existing monitoring data,
completing the offshore borrow site survey plan, completing the economic analysis, and
finalizing the feasibility study.
Regional Beach Sand Project III will have three phases:
Phase I - Preliminary planning
Phase II - Engineering and environmental
Phase III - Construction and monitoring
May 9, 2023 Item #11 Page 2 of 18
June 5, 2025 Item #2 23 of 40
SANDAG staff laid out the necessary phases and the funding required for the Regional Beach
Sand Project III, at the SANDAG Shoreline Preservation Working Group meeting on May 5, 2022.
Phase I - Preliminary Planning
SANDAG has applied for several grants to cover the cost for Phase I, but its proposals have been
unsuccessful. SANDAG is therefore recommending that local jurisdictions collectively fund the
work for Phase I of the Regional Beach Sand Project III, which was the case for the first two
phases. SANDAG staff met with the coastal cities’ staff over the summer to advise of this
pending approach.
On March 27, 2023, staff received a draft Memorandum of Understanding between the City of
Carlsbad and SANDAG regarding Preliminary Planning Activities for a Regional Beach Sand
Project. Similar memoranda were executed prior to the implementation the first two projects.
The proposed memorandum for a Regional Beach Sand Project III states in part:
•The preliminary planning activities … include updating the feasibility study and
economic analysis done in 2007, determining lessons learned, identifying
streamlining and cost saving options, and estimating the total cost for
engineering, environmental and construction for a RBSP III (Preliminary Planning
Activities); and
•The allocation of funds among the coastal cities (City of San Diego, City of
Carlsbad, City of Encinitas, City of Imperial Beach, City of Oceanside, City of Del
Mar and City of Solana Beach, together the “Coastal Cities”) should be based
upon the number of miles of coastline within each city, which is a method used
for the Regional Shoreline Monitoring Program that is currently funded by the
Coastal Cities; and
•SANDAG requires a written funding commitment for each participating Coastal
City prior to work beginning on the Preliminary Planning Activities; and
•This MOU does not and is not intended to commit any of the parties to working
on any portion of the RBSP III beyond the stage of Preliminary Planning
Activities; and
•The City of Carlsbad has 6.50 miles of shoreline within San Diego County which is
32.34 percent of the region’s coastline equaling a total contribution of $64,677
(Proportional Share) for Preliminary Planning Activities necessary for the
development of RBSP III; and
•The parties wish to memorialize their agreement in an MOU to carry out the
purposes set forth above.
On April 4, 2023, the Beach Preservation Commission received a staff report and recommended
the City Council approve the Memorandum of Understanding between SANDAG and the City of
Carlsbad regarding Preliminary Planning Activities for a Regional Beach Sand Project.
Phase II - Engineering and environmental
This phase would consist of the engineering and environmental documentation needed for
permitting and is estimated to cost a total of $3 million for the entire region. Staff will provide a
May 9, 2023 Item #11 Page 3 of 18
June 5, 2025 Item #2 24 of 40
report to the City Council on this project phase – including any possible city funding – for its
consideration at a date yet to be determined.
Phase III - Construction and monitoring
This phase will consist of construction activities and monitoring of where the sand will be
placed on the regional beaches. It estimated to cost $37 million for the entire region. Staff will
return to the City Council with a report on this phase of the project as well, also at a date to be
determined.
Fiscal Analysis
SANDAG has requested a total of $200,000 for Phase I of the project. This has been divided
among the participating coastal cities, the cities of Oceanside, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Solana Beach
and Imperial Beach), proportionate to the miles of coastline within each of those cities. The
same equation was previously applied to the phases of the first two regional beach sand
projects, as well as to the ongoing Regional Shoreline Monitoring Program.
The City of Carlsbad contains 6.5 miles of coastline, which is 32.3 percent of the coastline of the
participating coastal cities. Carlsbad’s proportional share of SANDAG’S total $200,000 funding
request equates to $64,677.
Three other coastal cities, Del Mar, San Diego and Coronado, have not yet committed to
participating in Phase I of the project. Should those cities commit to participating in Phase I,
Carlsbad’s proportional share of SANDAG’s total $200,000 funding request would be reduced
accordingly.
The City Council approved the allocation of $1,500,000 of grant funds to the City of Carlsbad
Beach Preservation Committee for Carlsbad beach nourishment in 2007, based upon the
recommendations of the Agricultural Conversion Mitigation Fee Committee.1 (Resolution No.
2007-029) The city subsequently provided SANDAG $884,060 for the three phases of Regional
Beach Sand Project II, leaving a balance of $615,940 available for reallocation.
Then, in 2013, the City Council approved reallocating $615,940 in grant funds that were no
longer needed to complete the beach sand project to several other requests recommended by
the Agricultural Conversion Mitigation Fee Committee. (Resolution No. 2013-230)
In 2020, after all monitoring requirements for Regional Beach Sand Project II had been met,
SANDAG refunded $227,552 to the city, from the $884,060 the city had provided to SANDAG.
Staff deposited those funds in the Agricultural Conversion Mitigation Fee Fund.
Staff are now recommending the City Council approve the allocation and appropriation of
$64,677 of grant funds from the Agricultural Conversion Mitigation Fee Fund in response to
SANDAG’s funding request for Phase I of Regional Beach Sand Project III. The remaining
$162,875 will be held in the Agricultural Mitigation Fee Fund and could potentially be allocated
at a later date to support the remaining phases of the project.
1 The city collects an Agricultural Conversion Mitigation Fee from developers when they develop agricultural land
in the city’s Coastal Zone. The city’s Agricultural Conversion Mitigation Fee Ad Hoc Citizens’ Advisory Committee
reviews requests for funding for preservation projects from these fees and makes recommendations to the City
Council on awarding the grants.
May 9, 2023 Item #11 Page 4 of 18
June 5, 2025 Item #2 25 of 40
Options
Staff have identified the following options for the City Council’s consideration:
1.Adopt a resolution approving a memorandum of understanding between SANDAG and
the City of Carlsbad for a regional beach sand project, and approving the allocation and
appropriation of $64,677 of funds from the Agricultural Conversion Mitigation Fee Fund.
•This action will allow the City of Carlsbad to remain eligible for participation in
future phases of Regional Beach Sand Project III and potentially receive
deposited sand from this project on its beaches.
2.Do not adopt a resolution approving a memorandum of understanding between
SANDAG and the City of Carlsbad for a regional beach sand project, and approving the
allocation and appropriation of $64,677 of funds from the Agricultural Conversion
Mitigation Fee Fund.
•This action will preclude the City of Carlsbad from being eligible to participate in
future phases of Regional Beach Sand Project III and the city would not receive
sand from this project deposited on its beaches.
Staff recommend Option 1.
Next Steps
Staff will ensure execution of the memorandum of understanding and will coordinate with
SANDAG staff on any data needed for Phase I of Regional Beach Sand Project IIIII, which is
anticipated to take one year to complete.
Environmental Evaluation
Approving a memorandum of understanding regarding preliminary activities for a regional
beach sand project statutorily exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act under
CEQA Guidelines Section 15262 - Feasibility and Planning Studies. SANDAG will be the lead
agency for Regional Beach Sand Project III, so any subsequent environmental review for the
project will be SANDAG’s responsibility.
Exhibits
1.City Council resolution
May 9, 2023 Item #11 Page 5 of 18
June 5, 2025 Item #2 26 of 40
RESOLUTION NO. 2023-126
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARLSBAD,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
BETWEEN THE SAN DIEGO ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS AND THE CITY
OF CARLSBAD REGARDING PRELIMINARY PLANNING ACTIVITIES FOR A
REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT, AND APPROVING THE ALLOCATION AND
APPROPRIATION OF $64,677 OF GRANT FUNDS FROM THE AGRICULTURAL
MITIGATION FEE FUND
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Carlsbad, California has determined that wide beaches
can help protect coastal communities and coastal transportation facilities by acting as a buffer to
alleviate some of the impacts from sea-level rise, strong storm events, and high tides; and
WHEREAS, multiple benefits of beach nourishment have been cited, including recreational,
economic, and public safety enhancements, protection of infrastructure, and increases in habitat; and
WHEREAS, beach nourishment is also considered a sea-level rise adaptation strategy by several
cities in the San Diego region which have updated their Local Coastal Programs to align with the
California Coastal Commission's Guidance on sea-level rise; and
WHEREAS, a Regional Beach Sand Project (RBSP) involves dredging beach quality sand from
offshore borrow sites and placing that sand on highly eroded beaches in the San Diego region; and
WHEREAS, the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) has a regional forum -the
Shoreline Preservation Working Group -for which elected officials are engaged in regional adaptation
projects, such as beach nourishment; and
WHEREAS, representatives of several coastal cities on the Shoreline Preservation Working
Group have expressed an interest in initiating a RBSP; and
WHEREAS, in 1993, SANDAG adopted the "Shoreline Preservation Strategy for the San Diego
Region" as a long-term strategy for restoring the regional beaches. It sets out objectives, policies, and
recommendations for executing a coordinated list of solutions to the region's areas of concern; and
WHEREAS, in 2001, SANDAG implemented and completed the RBSP I, which placed 2.1 million
cubic yards of clean, beach-quality sand at 12 eroded beaches -from Imperial Beach to Oceanside.
Carlsbad beaches received an estimated 382,625 cubic yards of sand from the RBSP I; and
WHEREAS, SAN DAG will be responsible for project management and administration of RBSP Ill,
will play a role in coordinating with local jurisdictions and in drafting/editing the feasibility study; and
Exhibit 1
May 9, 2023 Item #11 Page 6 of 18
June 5, 2025 Item #2 27 of 40
WHEREAS, the consultant hired by SANDAG will be responsible for most of the other tasks,
including reviewing the existing monitoring data, completing the offshore borrow site survey plan,
completing the economic analysis, and finalizing the feasibility study; and
WHEREAS, there will be three phases for the RBSP Ill: Phase I -Preliminary Planning, Phase II -
Engineering and Environmental, and Phase Ill -Construction and Monitoring; and
WHEREAS, while SANDAG has applied for several grants to cover the cost for Phase I, the
proposals have been unsuccessful. SANDAG is therefore recommending that local jurisdictions
collectively fund the work for Phase I of the RBSP Ill; and
WHEREAS, on March 27, 2023, staff received a draft Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
between the City of Carlsbad and SANDAG regarding Preliminary Planning Activities for a Regional
Beach Sand Project. Similar MOUs were executed prior to implementation of RBSP I and RBSP II; and
WHEREAS, on April 4, 2023, the Beach Preservation Commission recommended the City Council
approve a MOU between San Diego Association of Governments and the City of Carlsbad Regarding
Preliminary Planning Activities for a Regional Beach Sand Project and
WHEREAS, SANDAG's total $200,000 funding request for Phase I of the RBSP Ill has been divided
amongst the region's participating coastal cities (i.e., cities of Oceanside, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Solana
Beach and Imperial Beach), proportionate to the miles of coastline within each of those cities; and
WHEREAS, the City of Carlsbad contains 6.5 miles of coastline, which is 32.3 percent of the
coastline of the region's participating coastal cities in Phase I of RBSP Ill. Carlsbad's proportional share
of SAN DAG'S total $200,000 funding request equates to $64,677; and
WHEREAS, on Feb. 13, 2007, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2007-029, approving the
allocation of grant funds from the Agricultural Conversion Mitigation Fee Fund based upon the
recommendations of the Agricultural Conversion Mitigation Fee Committee; and
WHEREAS, that allocation included grant funds to the City of Carlsbad Beach Preservation
Committee for Carlsbad Beach Nourishment; and
WHEREAS, the city subsequently provided SANDAG $884,060 in grant funds over the total
phases of the RBSP II; and
WHEREAS, on Feb. 20, 2020, after all monitoring requirements for the RBSP II had been met,
SANDAG refunded to the city a balance of $227,552, from the $884,060 the city had provided to
SANDAG; and
May 9, 2023 Item #11 Page 7 of 18
June 5, 2025 Item #2 28 of 40
WHEREAS, staff deposited the $227,552 balance to the Agricultural Mitigation Fee Fund; and
WHEREAS, staff is recommending that the City Council approve the allocation and appropriation
of $64,677 of grant funds from the Agricultural Mitigation Fee Fund to address SANDAG's funding
request for Phase I of the RBSB Ill; and
WHEREAS, the remaining $162,875 would be held in the Agricultural Mitigation Fee Fund and
could potentially be allocated at a later date in support of additional phases of the RBSP Ill; and
WHEREAS, the City Planner has determined that approving a MOU between SANDAG and the
City of Carlsbad Regarding Preliminary Planning Activities for a RBSP is RBSP is statutorily exempt from
the California Environmental Quality Act under CEQA Guidelines Section 15262 -Feasibility and
Planning Studies.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Carlsbad, California, as
follows:
1.That the above recitations are true and correct.
2.That the Mayor is hereby authorized and directed to approve a Memorandum of
Understanding between SAN DAG and the City of Carlsbad for a RBSP, attached hereto
as Attachment A.
3.That the Deputy City Manager for Administrative Services is hereby authorized to
allocate and appropriate $64,677 from the Agricultural Mitigation Fee Fund for
SANDAG's funding request for Phase I of the RBSB Ill.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of
Carlsbad on the 9th day of May, 2023, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Blackburn, Bhat-Patel, Acosta, Burkholder, Luna.
None.
None.
None.
KEITH BLACKBURN, Mayor
t SHERRY FREISINGER, City ClerkU (SEAL)
May 9, 2023 Item #11 Page 8 of 18
June 5, 2025 Item #2 29 of 40
Attachment A
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN SAN DIEGO ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS AND THE CITY OF CARLSBAD REGARDING PRELIMINARY PLANNING ACTIVITIES FOR A REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
SANDAG CONTRACT NO. S1156850
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is made and entered into effective as of the last
signature date below, by and between the San Diego Association of Governments (“SANDAG”) and the
City of Carlsbad.
RECITALS
WHEREAS, in 1996, SANDAG adopted the Shoreline Preservation Strategy (Strategy) that outlines
an extensive beach building and maintenance program for the critical shoreline erosion areas in the region,
containing a comprehensive set of recommendations on the beach building program and on financing and
implementation; and
WHEREAS, in 2001, SANDAG successfully implemented a Regional Beach Sand Project (RBSP)
that placed 2.1 million cubic yards of sand on 12 beaches in the San Diego region; and
WHEREAS, in 2012, SANDAG successfully implemented a second Regional Beach Sand Project
(RBSP II) that placed 1.5 million cubic yards of sand on 8 beaches in the San Diego region; and
WHEREAS, in 2021, SANDAG adopted the 2021 Regional Plan, which includes a Sustainable
Communities Strategy that promotes nature-based climate solutions as a climate adaption strategy; and
WHEREAS, the State of California has identified beach nourishment as a type of nature-based
climate solutions; and
WHEREAS, the San Diego region is committed to implementing the Strategy; and
WHEREAS, the region’s coastal cities representatives on the SANDAG Shoreline Preservation
Working Group have expressed an interest and desire to initiate a Regional Beach Sand Project III (RBSP
III); and
WHEREAS, a number of benefits, including recreational, economic, and public safety
enhancements, protection of infrastructure, and increases in habitat, would occur as a result of beach
nourishment; and
WHEREAS, the first Phase of a RBSP III would be preliminary planning activities that include
updating the Feasibility and Economic Analysis done in 2007 at an estimated cost of $200,000 in
preliminary planning activities for the RBSP III, which is requested to be paid by the region; and
WHEREAS, the preliminary planning activities as identified in attachments to this MOU include
updating the feasibility study and economic analysis done in 2007, determining lessons learned, identifying
streamlining and cost saving options, and estimating the total cost for engineering, environmental and
construction for a RBSP III (Preliminary Planning Activities); and
WHEREAS, the allocation of funds among the coastal cities (City of San Diego, City of Carlsbad, City of Encinitas, City of Imperial Beach, City of Oceanside, City of Del Mar and City of Solana Beach, together the “Coastal Cities”) should be based upon the number of miles of coastline within each city, which
May 9, 2023 Item #11 Page 9 of 18
June 5, 2025 Item #2 30 of 40
is a method used for the Regional Shoreline Monitoring Program that is currently funded by the Coastal Cities; and
WHEREAS, SANDAG requires a written funding commitment for each participating Coastal City
prior to work beginning on the Preliminary Planning Activities; and
WHEREAS, this MOU does not and is not intended to commit any of the parties to working on any
portion of the RBSP III beyond the stage of Preliminary Planning Activities; and
WHEREAS, the City of Carlsbad has 6.50 miles of shoreline within San Diego County which is
32.34 percent of the region’s coastline equaling a total contribution of $64,677 (Proportional Share) for
Preliminary Planning Activities necessary for the development of RBSP III; and
WHEREAS, the parties wish to memorialize their agreement in this MOU to carry out the purposes
set forth above;
AGREEMENT
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises set forth herein, the parties agree as
follows:
SANDAG AGREES:
1.To use the City of Carlsbad’s Proportional Share solely to pay for Preliminary Planning Activities to
evaluate the potential for RBSP III, which includes an investigation of offshore sand sources and
preliminary project design for the preparation of a regional beach sand project. Funds will be kept by
SANDAG in an interest-bearing account with interest credited to City of Carlsbad prorated to reflect
its contribution to the Preliminary Planning Activities as compared to each Coastal City’s
contributions, until the completion of the Preliminary Planning Activities. Unused funds will be
returned to each Coastal City on a similarly pro-rated basis.
2.To retain the original records for at least 5 years from the date of the Preliminary Planning Activities
completion and make them available to the City of Carlsbad upon request.
3.To not proceed beyond the first phase of Preliminary Planning Activities without assurances that each
participating Coastal City has entered into a subsequent memorandum of understanding reflecting
the jurisdiction’s desire and commitment to participate in the RBSP III, reflecting approvals of
appropriations for the phases of the RBSP III after Preliminary Planning Activities, the aggregate of
which will fund the RBSP III.
4.Neither City of Carlsbad, nor any officer thereof is responsible for any damage or liability occurring by
reason of anything done or omitted to be done by SANDAG under or in connection with any work,
authority, or jurisdiction delegated to SANDAG under this MOU. It is understood and agreed that,
pursuant to Government Code Section 895.4, SANDAG shall fully defend, indemnify, and save
harmless City of Carlsbad, all officers, and employees from all claims, suits, or actions of every name,
kind, and description brought for or on account of injury (as defined in Government Code Section 810.8)
occurring by reason of anything done or omitted to be done by SANDAG under or in connection with
any work, authority, or jurisdiction delegated to SANDAG under this MOU.
May 9, 2023 Item #11 Page 10 of 18
June 5, 2025 Item #2 31 of 40
CITY OF CARLSBAD AGREES:
5. The City of Carlsbad will approve an appropriation of $64,677, such amount being its Proportional
Share to SANDAG for the Preliminary Planning Activities, which funds will be paid to SANDAG prior
to the start date of the Preliminary Planning Activities.
6. The City of Carlsbad understands and agrees that the proportionate amount may decrease, or
increase based upon the participation of other Coastal Cities in the Preliminary Planning Activities,
but any increase beyond $64,677, will require and is subject to subsequent approval by the City
Council or designee.
7.Neither SANDAG nor any officer thereof is responsible for any damage or liability occurring by reason
of anything done or omitted to be done by City of Carlsbad under or in connection with any work,
authority, or jurisdiction delegated to City of Carlsbad under this MOU. It is understood and agreed
that, pursuant to Government Code Section 895.4 as well as the terms of this MOU, City of Carlsbad
shall fully defend, indemnify, and save harmless SANDAG, its Board of Directors, all its officers, and
all its employees from all claims, suits, or actions of every name, kind, and description brought for or
on account of injury (as defined in Government Code Section 810.8) occurring by reason of anything
done or omitted to be done by the City of Carlsbad under or in connection with any work, authority,
or jurisdiction delegated to City of Carlsbad under this MOU.
THE PARTIES MUTUALLY AGREE:
1.That all obligations of SANDAG under the terms of this MOU are subject to the appropriation of the
required resources by SANDAG and the approval of the SANDAG Board of Directors.
2.Any notice required or permitted under this MOU may be personally served on the other party, by the
party giving notice, or may be served by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the following
addresses:
For SANDAG For City of Carlsbad
401 B Street, Suite 800 799 Pine Avenue
San Diego, CA 92101 Carlsbad, CA 92008
Attn: Courtney Pesce Attn: Parks & Recreation Director
3.This MOU shall continue in effect unless and until a party to the MOU gives 60 (sixty) days written
notice of its desire to withdraw from the MOU.
4.In accordance with Public Utilities Code section 132354.1(b)(4), all parties shall maintain and make
available for inspection all books, documents, papers, accounting records, emails and other evidence
pertaining to the performance of the Agreement, including but not limited to, the costs of
administering the MOU to the SANDAG Independent Performance Auditor. All parties shall make
such materials available at their respective offices at all reasonable times during the MOU period and
for three years from the date of final payment under the MOU.
5.The indemnification and defense provisions of this MOU shall survive termination of the MOU.
6.This MOU shall be interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of California. If any action is
brought to interpret or enforce any term of this MOU, the action shall be brought in a state or federal
court situated in the County of San Diego, State of California.
May 9, 2023 Item #11 Page 11 of 18
June 5, 2025 Item #2 32 of 40
7.All terms, conditions, and provisions hereof shall inure to and shall bind each of the parties hereto,
and each of their respective heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns.
8.For purposes of this MOU, the relationship of the parties is that of independent entities and not as
agents of each other or as joint ventures or partners. The parties shall maintain sole and exclusive
control over their personnel, agents, consultants, and operations.
9.No alteration or variation of the terms of this MOU shall be valid unless made in writing and signed by
the parties hereto, and no oral understanding or agreement not incorporated herein shall be binding
on any of the parties hereto.
10.Nothing in the provisions of this MOU is intended to create duties or obligations to or rights in third
parties to this MOU or affect the legal liability of the parties to this MOU.
11.Nothing in the provisions of this MOU commits either of the parties to working on and/or providing
additional funding for any portion of the beach sand replenishment project beyond the stage of
preliminary planning activities.
12.This MOU may be executed in any number of identical counterparts, each of which shall be deemed
to be an original, and all of which together shall be deemed to be one and the same instrument when
each party has signed one such counterpart.
13.This MOU may be executed and delivered by electronic signature.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties hereto have executed this MOU effective as of the last date a
party provides an electronic signature below.
SAN DIEGO ASSOCIATION OF
GOVERNMENTS
COLEEN CLEMENTSON
Chief Deputy Executive Director
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
E-SIGNED by Peter Stevens
on 2023-06-15 23:28:00 GMT
Office of General Counsel
Exhibits: A.Project Scope of WorkB.Project BudgetC.Project Schedule
June 15, 2023
CITY OF CARLSBAD
KEITH BLACKBURN
Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Legal Co,�el '--/
May 9, 2023 Item #11 Page 12 of 18
June 5, 2025 Item #2 33 of 40
Regional Beach Sand Project III (RBSPIII)
Feasibility Study & Economic Analysis
Exhibit A – Project Scope of Work
INTRODUCTION:
SANDAG is the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) for the San Diego region and plays a key role in the regional coordination of a variety of projects. The San Diego region has 19 jurisdictions, 10 of which are located in the coastal zone and collectively manage approximately 70 miles of coastline which can be accessed via transit, highways, roadways, and bicycle and pedestrian facilities. A number of these facilities are at risk from the impacts of rising seas, high tides, and strong storms. As such, access to beaches, residences, and public facilities may be impacted. This would be particularly impactful to disadvantaged populations living in the cities of Oceanside, Carlsbad, City of San Diego, National City, Chula Vista, and Imperial Beach which have populations that fall in the 70-100 percentile of the demographic index (source: EJSCREEN).
SANDAG proposes to conduct a feasibility study for a regional beach sand nourishment project which would use information from SANDAG’s Round 1 SB 1 Caltrans Adaptation Planning Grant
effort to identify transportation facilities that will be impacted by sea-level rise and may benefit from beach nourishment. Implementation of a regional beach sand project would involve dredging beach quality sand from offshore borrow sites and placing it on highly eroded beaches in the San
Diego region. Beach nourishment is being considered as a sea-level rise adaptation strategy by a number of cities in the San Diego region who have updated their Local Coastal Programs to align with the California Coastal Commission’s Guidance on sea-level rise. Wide beaches can help protect coastal communities and coastal transportation facilities by acting as a buffer to alleviate some of the impacts from sea-level rise, strong storm events, and high tides. SANDAG has previously completed two regional beach sand nourishment projects in 2001 and 2012 (RBSP I and RBSP II, respectively), adding approximately 3.5 million cubic yards of sand to the region's local beaches. In addition, SANDAG has an established regional forum (the Shoreline Preservation Working Group) where elected officials are engaged in regional adaptation projects, such as beach nourishment.
SANDAG will coordinate closely with city staff, city council members who serve on SANDAG’s Shoreline Preservation Working Group (SPWG), and other technical advisors on this project. Work efforts from this project will be summarized in two final deliverables: the feasibility study and
the off-shore borrow site survey plan.
RESPONSIBLE PARTIES
SANDAG will require the assistance of a consulting team to complete this work. SANDAG has not yet selected which firm will provide this assistance, but will utilize the agency’s list of on-call consultants, selected through the established procurement procedures, to find the appropriate
firm(s) to perform this work. Generally, SANDAG will be responsible for overall project management and administration and will play a role in coordinating with local jurisdictions as well as drafting and editing the feasibility study. The consultant will be responsible for the majority of other tasks including the review of existing monitoring data, completing the offshore borrow site survey plan, completing the economic analysis, and finalizing the feasibility study.
May 9, 2023 Item #11 Page 13 of 18
June 5, 2025 Item #2 34 of 40
OVERALL PROJECT OBJECTIVES:
•Identify beach erosion areas in the San Diego region that may impact coastaltransportation infrastructure through review of existing data and coordination with coastaljurisdiction staff.
•Evaluate the economic costs and benefits of implementing a regional beach nourishmentproject and several alternatives to that project that may include one pilot sand retentionstrategy.
•Complete a feasibility study for a future regional beach nourishment project andalternatives.
•Create a plan for surveying offshore sand borrow sites to ensure adequate quantities ofsand are available to nourish the San Diego region’s beaches.
1.Project Management and Administration
•SANDAG will hold a kick-off meeting to discuss procedures and project expectations,including invoicing, quarterly reporting, and other relevant project information. Meeting
summary will be documented.
•Utilize an existing on-call agreement to select consultants using the proper procurement
procedures.
•SANDAG will hold a kick-off meeting with the consultants to review the scope of work,
timeline, communication protocols, and other relevant project information. Meeting summarywill be documented.
•Coordinate with the consultants through regular communication (including in-person meetingsand/or conference calls) to ensure project remains on time and within budget. Meeting noteswill be documented.
•Consultant will invoice SANDAG and provide a brief summary of work efforts on a monthlybasis.
Task 1 Deliverables
•Meeting Notes and Summaries
•Subcontractor Agreements
•Invoice Packages and Quarterly Reports
2.Economic Analysis
•Using actual costs from RBSP II, the consultant will prepare an economic analysis that willinclude the following components: preliminary cost estimates of a range of project alternativesthat may include one pilot sand retention strategy, a benefit/cost analysis of the projectalternatives, and a discussion of economic impacts. This economic analysis will besummarized in the feasibility study and included as an appendix to the final document.
•The contractor will evaluate the Benefit Cost Analysis (BCA) prepared by the U.S. Army Corpsof Engineers for the Encinitas-Solana Beach Coastal Storm Damage Reduction Project andthe economic analysis conducted for the 2007 feasibility study (for RBSP II) provide amethodology for the analysis for approval by SANDAG.
•The BCA should be developed to allow federal agencies to evaluate the benefit to cost ratio ofthe project and various subsegments of the project (by littoral cell or jurisdiction).
May 9, 2023 Item #11 Page 14 of 18
June 5, 2025 Item #2 35 of 40
•The contractor should assume 3 rounds of comments in the preparation of the Draft EconomicAnalysis as follows, comments by SANDAG on the draft, comments from the members of theShoreline Preservation Working Group on the draft, and comments from the public.
Task 2 Deliverables
•Methodology Approach for the Economic Analysis
•Draft Economic Analysis Technical Appendix
•Final Economic Analysis Technical Appendix
3.Regional Beach Sand Replenishment Project (RBSP III) Feasibility Study
•Using information obtained from Tasks 2, consultant will draft a feasibility study for a futureregional beach sand project (RBSPIII). The 2007 feasibility study that was prepared for RBSPII will be used as a template and the updated feasibility study will address the same majortopics including, but not limited to: a statement of the problem, a description of existing site
conditions, consideration of project alternatives, methods to reduce costs and leverage otherefforts in southern California, and economic considerations.
•The feasibility study will also include an explanation of how beach nourishment can be used toprotect coastal critical infrastructure in the region from sea level rise. Example from otherregions should be provided.
•The feasibility study will identify the various permits and approvals that would be needed forthe implementation of this project.
•As part of the Feasibility Study, or a separate report, the consultant will address the lessons
learn from prior RBSP I and II, opportunities that arise from other relevant nourishment effortsand address:
1.ways to streamline environmental clearance under CEQA/NEPA, and regulatory permits,
2.ways to leverage opportunities arising from the San Diego Coastal Storm DamageReduction Project any other southern California beach nourishment or sand bypassprojects, or use of the the Army Corps west coast hopper dredge,
•The feasibility will also address the needs of the sand nourishment needs, if any, ofjurisdictions fronting the San Diego Bay.
•A meeting will be scheduled with interested stakeholders (city staff, members of the SPWG,members of the public) to review the draft feasibility study and solicit feedback. SANDAG will
likely use a scheduled SPWG meeting as the forum for this discussion. Comments fromstakeholders may also be submitted in writing and revisions to the feasibility study will bemade as needed.
•Consultant will incorporate comments from SANDAG staff and interested stakeholders into afinal version of the feasibility study.
Task 3 Deliverables
•Draft Feasibility Study
•Host meetings to discuss draft Feasibility Study
•Finalize Feasibility Study
May 9, 2023 Item #11 Page 15 of 18
June 5, 2025 Item #2 36 of 40
4.Off-Shore Borrow Site
•Conduct a literature review of offshore investigations completed for Regional Beach SandProjects I and II (RBSP I and RBSP II) to identify any additional candidate borrow sites in thenorthern portion of San Diego County that could be utilized to implement a future beachnourishment project.
•Prepare a plan and scope of work to conduct an investigation of a minimum of three offshoreborrow sites to determine the outer boundaries of the two offshore borrow sites used forRBSP II (MB-1 and SO-5) and at least one new borrow site in the northern portion of SanDiego County. Once completed, these surveys will help to estimate the quantity of sand
available for beach nourishment on the San Diego coastline.
Task 4 Deliverable
•Perform Off-Shore Borrow Site existing data review
•Prepare Off-Shore Borrow Site Plan and Scope of Work for Three Sites
May 9, 2023 Item #11 Page 16 of 18
June 5, 2025 Item #2 37 of 40
Exhibit B – Project Budget
Regional Beach Sand Project III (RBSPIII) Feasibility Study & Economic Analysis
Task Name Description Budget State Date End Date
1 Project Management and Administration SANDAG to monitor Project Management and Administration $10,000.00
2 Economic Analysis Subconsultant to prepare an updated Economic Analysis $50,000.00
3 Regional Beach Sand Replenishment Project (RBSP III) Feasibility Study
Draft RBSP III Feasibility Study, Review, and Finalize $100,000.00
4 Off-shore Borrow Site Subconsultant will prepare an Offshore Borrow Site Plan and Scope of Work for Three Sites $40,000.00
Total $200,000 NTP
Ma
y
9
,
2
0
2
3
It
e
m
#
1
1
P
a
g
e
1
7
o
f
1
8
Ju
n
e
5,
20
2
5
It
e
m
#2
38
of
40
Exhibit C – Project Schedule
Regional Beach Sand Project III (RBSPIII) Feasibility Study & Economic Analysis
Task Name Description State Date End Date
1 Project Management and Administration SANDAG to monitor Project Management and Administration NTP
2 Economic Analysis Subconsultant to prepare an updated Economic Analysis NTP
3 Regional Beach Sand Replenishment Project (RBSP III) Feasibility Study
Draft RBSP III Feasibility Study,
Review, and Finalize NTP
4 Off-shore Borrow Site Subconsultant will prepare an Offshore Borrow Site Plan and Scope of Work for Three Sites NTP
May 9, 2023 Item #11 Page 18 of 18
June 5, 2025 Item #2 39 of 40
Tammy Cloud-McMinn
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Kathleen Steindlberger < kathyandan@yahoo.com>
Tuesday, May 9, 2023 1 :39 PM
City Clerk; clerk@carlsbad.ca.gov; Tammy Cloud-McMinn
May 9, 2023 City Council Meeting Comment item #11
Mayor Blackburn and Carlsbad city council:
All Receive -Agenda Item # .li.
For the Information of the:
CITY COUNCIL
Date.6fl/J2:l:.A _LCC V
CM _....-,;;cM ~CM (3) ~
Please vote to adopt the resolution to approve the Memorandum of understanding between
SANDAG and the city of Carlsbad and allocation of $64,677 of grant funds to participate
in the proposed SANDAG Regional Beach Nourishment Sand Project.
As you are aware, Carlsbad beaches are the reason many of us live here. Thousands of
people visit our Carlsbad beaches every year to surf, swim, escape the heat, to fish, and ·
to take in the natural beauty of our coast. But our sandy beaches are disappearing.
winter storms, hard armoring and sea level rise threatens to drown many of our bea.ches.
Regional sand replenishment projects mitigate erosion, protect coastal structures, create
new habitat and enhance beach recreation.
Please vote to fund this SANDAG Beach Nourishment Project.
Kathleen Steindlberger
CAUTION: Do not open attachments or click on links unless ou recognize the sender and know the content i
safe.
1
June 5, 2025 Item #2 40 of 40
Regional Beach Sand Project III Update
Nick Stupin, Parks Planning Manager
Parks & Recreation Department
June 5, 2025
RECOMMENDED ACTION
•Receive an informational report and
presentation from the San Diego Association of
Governments (SANDAG) staff on the status of
the Regional Beach Sand Project III (RBSP III)
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
2
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
•SANDAG is the Metropolitan Planning Organization
for the San Diego region and plays a key role in the
regional coordination of a variety of projects
•10 of region’s jurisdictions are in the coastal zone
and collectively manage about 70 miles of coastline
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
3
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
•In 1993, a "Shoreline Preservation Strategy for the
San Diego Region" was adopted by SANDAG as a
long-term strategy, for restoring regional beaches
•The strategy sets out objectives, policies, and
recommendations for executing a coordinated list
of solutions for each of region's shoreline areas
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
4
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
•The state has identified beach nourishment as a
type of nature-based climate solution, to which
the region has demonstrated a commitment
•SANDAG’s 2021 Regional Plan includes a
Sustainable Communities Strategy to promote
nature-based climate solutions
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
5
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
•In September 2001, SANDAG completed the RBSP
I, which placed 2.1 million cubic yards of clean,
beach-quality sand on 12 beaches from Imperial
Beach to Oceanside
•RBSP I, a pilot project, successfully demonstrated
the feasibility of beach replenishment in the region
Achieved objective of replenishing beaches while
not negatively impacting the environment
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
6
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
•In December 2012, the RBSP II added 1.5 million
cubic yards of new sand to Imperial Beach,
Oceanside, Encinitas, Cardiff and Carlsbad beaches
Carlsbad received an estimated 350,000 cu. yds.
•The RBSP II was another success, further
demonstrating the feasibility of beach
replenishment and achieving its objective
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
7
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
•In addition to SANDAG administering RBSP I and
RBSP II, SANDAG has an established regional
forum: the Shoreline Preservation Working Group
Elected officials are engaged in regional
adaptation projects, such as beach nourishment
•Representatives of several coastal cities on the
Shoreline Preservation Working Group have joined
the effort to participate and contribute to RBSP III
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
8
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
•On April 4, 2023, the Commission received a
presentation and recommended the City Council
approve a Memorandum of Understanding
between SANDAG and City of Carlsbad regarding
Preliminary Planning Activities for a RBSP (III)
•On May 9, 2023, the City Council adopted a
resolution approving that MOU, and approved
appropriation of $64,677 of grant funds
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
9
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
SANDAG staff have committed to coordinating
this project with city staff, City Council Members
who serve on the Shoreline Preservation Working
Group, and other technical advisors
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
10
SANDAG REPRESENTATIVES
•Kim Smith
o Senior Regional Planner
•Courtney Becker
o Associate Regional Planner
11
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
Shoreline Preservation Working Group
Since 1980’s
Over 22 million visitors per
year visit the San Diego
region’s beach generating over
$2.4 BILLION per year in
beach spending
| 12
2001 – Regional Beach Sand Project
•2.2 million cubic yards of sand
•Cost $18 million
•Jurisdiction's paid for Planning
•Engineering, Environmental and Construction
•60% Federal Funding & 40% State Funding
2012 – Regional Beach Sand Project II
•1.4 million cubic yards of sand
•Cost $26 million
•Jurisdiction's paid for Planning
•Engineering, Environmental and Construction
•85% State Funding & 15% Local Funding
Regional Beach Sand Projects I & II
| 13
Purpose of RBSP
III
Regional Shoreline
Monitoring Program est.
1996
Based on the data
collected by the Regional
Shoreline Monitoring
Program
| 14
South Ponto State Beach, 2014
South Ponto State Beach, 2024
Oceanside Blvd, 2014
Oceanside Blvd, 2024
The 3 Stages of RBSP III
| 15
Phase I
Planning, Feasibility & Economic Analysis
Phase II
Engineering & Environmental
Phase III
Construction & Monitoring
San Diego and
South Orange
County Littoral
Cells
A littoral cell is self-
contained
compartment withi
n which sand
circulates.
| 16
| 17
Draft Phase I Report Results
RBSP III Proposed
Receiver Sites
San Diego
•15 Receiver Sites
•4,303,000 CY
Orange County
•3 Receiver Sites
•1,550,000 CY
| 18
| 19
Economic Analysis Results
Methodology
•Benefit-Cost Analysis = similar to USACE methodology evaluating economic value of projects by comparing their expected cost and benefits.
•Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR) >1 = Cost Effective
Overall results
•RBSP III BCR =5.7 (San Diego County BCR = 8.1)
•Nourishing 15 beaches in San Diego will generate $1.6 billion over next 10 years
•Report concludes, “There is a need to maintain San Diego’s beaches to sustain its
economy.”
Lessons Learned from prior RBSPs
| 20
Expand longevity of nourishment by:
•Using coarser grain size
•Design for longer and narrower fill footprints
•Nourish in later summer rather than winter or early spring
Develop a programmatic approach to provide for a cycle of
nourishment efforts instead of one-off projects
•Utilize a programmatic environmental document and permits
Explore ways to reduce cost of hopper dredge
•Purchase or long-term lease.
•Seek a dedicated west coast dredge to reduce travel distance
Install a sand retention device in an appropriate location to retain
sand for longer periods of time
Draft Costs for
Construction &
Post-Monitoring
| 21
Dredge Cost $20,400,00
Hard Cost $160,186,756
Contingency (41.5%)$74,943,504
Soft Costs $5,425,00
Total: $260,955,259
Seeking Grant Funding
| 22
DBW Grant for Phase II
•Applied for $5,252,000
•State Budget FY 2027
•If awarded, 15 % required non-state match
USACE San Diego & Orange County Investigation – to explore inclusion of all
beaches into USACE’s existing Coastal Storm Damage Reduction Project’s
programmatic efforts
•WRDA 2024 authorized work
•SANDAG working to include in USACE work plan
•SANDAG provided a Letter of Intent to be the local sponsor
•MOU with participating cities and SANDAG would be required
| 23
Comments Received
Prevailing Themes
| 24
Revisions to
proposed
footprints for
several
beaches
Emphasis
RBSP III move
forward with a
programmatic
approach
Perform a
programmatic
EIR/EIS to reduce
costs and
streamline
environmental
clearancess.
Consider the
impacts to
the lagoons
that may
occur
Lagoon managers
should be involved
in the design, sand
quantity, and
placement
Request that
beach
attendance data
be included in
the report
To better
understand the
results of the
Economic Analysis
To better align with
each jurisdiction's
shoreline
management goals.
Phase I
Completion Next
Steps
| 25
Shoreline Preservation Working Group Meeting
June 5, 2025
Address Comments & Finalize Report
June – July 2025
Release the Final Report
August 2025
Continue to Seek Funding for Phase 2
August 2025
Stay connected with SANDAG
Explore our website
SANDAG.org
Email: courtney.becker@sandag.org
Phone: (619) 619-6942
Follow us on social media:
@SANDAGregion @SANDAG
Project Manager: Courtney Becker
RECENT LOCAL PROJECT RESULTS
•Oceanside Harbor Dredging
250,000 cu. yds. of sand on Oceanside beaches
•Agua Hedionda Lagoon Dredging
321,197 cu. yds. of sand on Carlsbad beaches
North Beach received 134,651 cu. yds. of sand
South Beach received 186,546 cu. yds. of sand
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
27
NEXT STEPS
•Staff will remain in communication with SANDAG
staff regarding developments on the RBSP III
•Staff will include an agenda item on project at a
significant milestone
28
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS
Thank you
ITEM NO.2: REGIONAL BEACH SAND PROJECT