Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2001-01-17; Planning Commission; Resolution 48911 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTlON NO. 4891 A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING APPROVAL OF A NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND ADDENDUM FOR A ZONE CHANGE AND LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM AMENDMENT TO CHANGE THE ZONING OF THREE LOTS LOCATED ON THE EAST SIDE OF CARLSBAD BOULEVARD BETWEEN TAMARACK AVENUE AND REDWOOD AVENUE IN LOCAL FACILITIES MANAGEMENT ZONE 1. CASE NAME: CARLSBAD BOULEVARD/TAMARACK ZONE CHANGE CASE NO.: ZCA 99-08/LCPA 00-01 WHEREAS, the City of Carlsbad has tiled a verified application regarding property owned by the Charles B. Ledgerwood Trust and property owned by the Mitze H. Eubanks Trust, “Owners,” described as Lots 1 and 2 in Block ‘G’ of Palisades in the City of Carlsbad, County of San Diego, State of California, according to Map thereof No. 1747, Bled in the Office of the Recorder of said San Diego County, February 5, 1923. (property owned by Charles B. Ledgerwood Trust) Parcel 1 of Parcel Map 3713, Bled in the Office of the County Recorder of San Diego County on April 21, 1975 as tile/Page No. 75092233 of Official Records. (property owned by Mitze H. Eubanks Trust) (“the Properties”); and WHEREAS, a Negative Declaration and Addendum were prepared in conjunction with said project; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission did on the 3rd day of January, 2001, hold a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by law, which was subsequently continued to the 17th day of January, 2001, to consider said request; and WHEREAS, at said public hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimtky and arguments, examining the initial study, analyzing the information submitted by staff, and 1 2 3 4 5 6 I 8 9 1c 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 considering any written comments received, the Planning Commission considered all factors relating to the Negative Declaration and Addendum. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED by the Planning Commission as follows: A) B) That the foregoing recitations are true and correct. That based on the evidence presented at the public hearing, the Planning Commission hereby RECOMMENDS APPROVAL of the Negative Declaration and Addendum according to Exhibit “ND” dated June 8, 2000, and “PII” dated June 1, 2000, attached hereto and made a part hereof, based on the following findings: Findings: 1. The Planning Commission of the City of Carlsbad does hereby find: A. B. C. D. It has reviewed, analyzed and considered Negative Declaration and Addendum for CARLSBAD BOULEVARD/TAMARACK ZONE CHANGE - ZC 99- 08/LCPA 00-01, the environmental impacts therein identified for this project and any comments thereon prior to RECOMMENDING APPROVAL of the project; and The Negative Declaration and Addendum have been prepared in accordance with requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act, the State Guidelines and the Environmental Protection Procedures of the City of Carlsbad; and It reflects the independent judgment of the Planning Commission of the City of Carlsbad; and Based on the EIA Part II and comments thereon, there is no substantial evidence the project will have a significant effect on the environment. PC RESO NO. 4891 -2- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Carlsbad, California, held on the 17th day of January 2001, by the following vote, to wit: AYES: Chairperson Segall, Commissioners Baker, Compaq Heineman, L’Heureux, and Trigas NOES: ABSENT: Commissioner Nielsen ABSTAIN: s$iz5&& CAPUBb PLANNING COMMISSION ATTEST: MICHAEL J. HOLZMILLER Planning Director PC RESO NO. 4891 -3. J 3 City of Carlsbad NEGATIVE DECLARATION Project Address/Location: 3862 and 3878 Carlsbad Boulevard, between Tamarack and Redwood Avenues (Assessor’s Parcel Numbers 204-253-13, 14, and 20). Project Description: Change the City and Local Coastal Program zoning designations of three contiguous properties from neighborhood and general commercial (C-l and C-2, respectively) to multiple-family residential (R-3). The Beach Area Overlay Zone would also be applied to each property. As proposed, the zoning designations would be consistent with the General Plan and Local Coastal Program Land Use Plan designations. No development is planned or anticipated as part of this project. The City of Carlsbad has conducted an environmental review of the above described project pursuant to the Guidelines for Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act and the Environmental Protection Ordinance of the City of Carlsbad. As a result of said review, a Negative Declaration (declaration that fhe project will not have a significant impact on the environment) is hereby issued for the subject project. Justification for this action is on file in the Planning Department. A copy of the Negative Declaration with supportive documents is on file in the Planning Department, 1635 Faraday Avenue, Carlsbad, California 92008. Comments from the public are invited. Please submit comments in writing to the Planning Department within 30 days of date of issuance. If you have any questions, please call Scott Donnell in the Planning Department at (760) 602-4618. DATED: JUNE 8.2000 CASE NO: ZC 99-08/LCPA 00-01 CASE NAME: CARLSBAD BLVD/TAMARACK ZONE CHANGE PUBLISH DATE: JUNE 8,200O Planning Director 1635 Faraday Avenue - Carlsbad, CA 92008-7314 0 (760) 602-4600 - FAX (760) 602-8559 @ ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT FORM - PART II (TO BE COMPLETED BY THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT) CASE NO: ZC 99-08 and LCPA 00-01 DATE: June 1,200O BACKGROUND 1. 2. 3. CASE NAME: Carlsbad Boulevard/Tamarack Zone Change APPLICANT: City of Carlsbad. c/o Planning Deuartment ADDRESS AND PHONE NUMBER OF APPLICANT: 1635 Faradav Avenue, Carlsbad. CA 92008-73 14: (760) 602-4600 4. 5. DATE EIA FORM PART I SUBMITTED: N/A - Citv uroiect PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Change the City and Local Coastal Program zoning designations of three contiguous properties, two developed and one vacant, from neighborhood and general commercial to multiple-family residential. The properties are located at 3862 and 3878 Carlsbad Boulevard and are between Tamarack and Redwood Avenues. As proposed, the zoning designations would be consistent with the General Plan and Local Coastal Program Land Use Plan designations. No development is planned or anticipated as part of this project. SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED The summary of environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least one impact that is a “Potentially Significant Impact,” or “Potentially Significant Impact Unless Mitigation Incorporated” as indicated by the checklist on the following pages. 0 Land Use and Planning El Transportation/Circulation cl Public Services 0 Population and Housing 0 Biological Resources q Utilities & Service Systems q Geological Problems q Energy & Mineral Resources 0 Aesthetics 0 Water 0 Air Quality cl Hazards 0 Cultural Resources 0 Noise cl Recreation 0 Mandatory Findings of Significance Rev. 03/28/96 DETERMINATION (To be completed by the Lead Agency) El 0 cl 0 q I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because the mitigation measures described on an attached sheet have been added to the project. A NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required. I find that the proposed project MAY have significant effect(s) on the environment, but at least one potentially significant effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and 2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets. A Mitigated Negative Declaration is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed. I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there WILL NOT be a significant effect in this case because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier enviromnental impact report pursuant to applicable standards and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier environmental impact report, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project. Therefore, a Notice of Prior Compliance has been prepared. Planner Signature Q)- I--00 Date Date Rev. 03/28/96 -’ ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS STATE CEQA GUIDELINES, Chapter 3, Article 5, Section 15063 requires that the City conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment to determine if a project may have a significant effect on the environment. The Environmental Impact Assessment appears in the following pages in the form of a checklist. This checklist identifies any physical, biological and human factors that might be impacted by the proposed project and provides the City with information to use as the basis for deciding whether to prepare an Environmental Impact Report (EIR), Negative Declaration, or to rely on a previously approved EIR or Negative Declaration. A brief explanation is required for all answers except ‘No Impact” answers that are adequately supported by an information source cited in the parentheses following each question. A “No Impact” answer is adequately supported if the referenced information sources show that the impact simply does not apply to projects like the one involved. A “No Impact” answer should be explained when there is no source document to refer to, or it is based on project-specific factors as well as general standards. “Less Than Significant Impact” applies where there is supporting evidence that the potential impact is not adversely significant, and the impact does not exceed adopted general standards and policies. “Potentially Significant Unless Mitigation Incorporated” applies where the incorporation of mitigation measures has reduced an effect from “Potentially Significant Impact” to a “Less Than Significant Impact.” The developer must agree to the mitigation, and the City must describe the mitigation measures, and briefly explain how they reduce the effect to a less than significant level. “Potentially Significant Impact” is appropriate if there is substantial evidence that an effect is significant. Based on an “EIA-Part II”, if a proposed project could have a potentially significant effect on the environment, but a potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR or Mitigated Negative Declaration pursuant to applicable standards and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or Mitigated Negative Declaration, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, and none of the circumstances requiring a supplement to or supplemental EIR are present and all the mitigation measures required by the prior environmental document have been incorporated into this project, then no additional environmental document is required (Prior Compliance). When “Potentially Significant Impact” is checked the project is not necessarily required to prepare an EIR if the significant effect has been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR pursuant to applicable standards and the effect will be mitigated, or a “Statement of Overriding Considerations” has been made pursuant to that earlier EIR. A Negative Declaration may be prepared if the City perceives no substantial evidence that the project or any of its aspects may cause a significant effect on the environment. 3 Rev.O3/28/96 . If there are one or more potentially significant effects, the City may avoid preparing an EIR if there are mitigation measures to clearly reduce impacts to less than significant, and those mitigation measures are agreed to by the developer prior to public review. In this case, the appropriate “Potentially Significant Impact Unless Mitigation Incorporated” may be checked and a Mitigated Negative Declaration may be prepared. . An EIR must be prepared if “Potentially Significant Impact” is checked, and including but not limited to the following circumstances: (1) the potentially significant effect has not been discussed or mitigated in an Earlier EIR pursuant to applicable standards, and the developer does not agree to mitigation measures that reduce the impact to less than significant; (2) a “Statement of Overriding Considerations” for the significant impact has not been made pursuant to an earlier EIR, (3) proposed mitigation measures do not reduce the impact to less than significant, or; (4) through the EIA-Part II analysis it is not possible to determine the level of significance for a potentially adverse effect, or determine the effectiveness of a mitigation measure in reducing a potentially significant effect to below a level of significance. A discussion of potential impacts and the proposed mitigation measures appears at the end of the form under DISCUSSION OF ENVIRONMENTAL EVALUATION. Particular attention should be given to discussing mitigation for impacts which would otherwise be determined significant. 4 Rev. 03/28/96 -3 Issues (and Supporting Information Sources) I. LAND USE AND PLANNNG. Would the proposal: 4 b) C) 4 e) Conflict with general plan designation 01 zoning? (Source #(s): #1: Pgs 5.6-l 5.6-18. See also Discussion of Environmental Evaluation section) Conflict with applicable environmental plans 01 policies adopted by agencies with jurisdiction over the project? (#1: Pgs 5.6-l - 5.6.18. #2: Pgs 24-55) Be incompatible with existing land use in the vicinity? (#1: Pgs 5.6-l - 5.6-18) Affect agricultural resources or operations (e.g. impacts to soils or farmlands, or impacts from incompatible land uses? (#l:Pgs 5.4-2, 5.13-I - 5.13-g) Disrupt OI divide the physical arrangement of an established community (including a low-income OI minority community)? (SC.2 Discussion of Environmental Evaluntion section) Il. POPULATION AND HOUSING. Would the proposal: 4 b) C) Cumulatively exceed official regional or local population projections? (#l:Pgs 5.5-l - 5.5.6,5.6.10) Induce substantial growth in an area either directly or indirectly (e.g. through projects in an undeveloped area or extension of major infrastructure)? (#l:Pgs 5.5-l - 5.5-6. See also Discussion of Environmental Evaluation section.) Displace existing housing, especially affordable housing? (#l:Pgs 5.5-l - 5.5-6 See also Discussion of Environmental Evaluation section.) III. GEOLOGIC PROBLEMS. Would the proposal result in 01 4 4 9 4 e) f) expose people to potential impacts involving: Faultrupture? (#l:Pgs 5.1-l - 5.1-15) Seismicgroundshaking?(#l:Pgs 5.1-l - 5.1-15) Seismic ground failure, including liquefaction? (#l:Pgs 5.1-I -51.15) Seiche, tsunami, or volcanic hazard? (#l:Pgs 5.1-l - 5.1-15) Landslides ormudflows? (#l:Pgs 5.1-l - 5.1-15) Erosion, changes in topography or unstable soil conditions from excavation, grading, or fill? (#l:Pgs 5.1-l - 5.1-15) g) Subsidence of the land? (#l:Pgs 5.1-I - 5.1-15) h) Expansivesoils?(#l:Pgs5.1-1 -5.1-15) i) Unique geologic or physical features? (#l:Pgs 5.1-l 5.1-15) Significat Impact q q q q q q q q El q q El q El Potentially Significant UIlkSS Mitigation Incorporated q q q q q q q q B q q El El q Less Than Signiticanl ItTlpCt q q q q q q 0 q q El q El q El NO Impact !!zl IXI q IXI tz El lxl [XI Ei El Ix] R El I8 Rev. 03128196 IV. WATER. Would the proposal result in: a) b) C) 4 e) 0 g) h) 0 Changes in absorption rates, drainage patterns, or the rate and amount of surface runoff? (#l:Pgs 5.2-l - 5..2- 11. See also Discussion of Environmental Evaluation S%tiOL) Exposure of people OI property to water related hazards such as flooding? (#l:Pgs 5.2-l - 5,.2-l 1) Discharge into surface waters or other alteration ,of surface water quality (e.g. temperature, dissolved oxygen or turbidity)? (#l:Pgs 5.2-l - 5.,2-l 1. See also Discussion of Environmental Evaluation section.) changes in the amount of surface water in any water body? (#l:Pgs 5.2-l - 5..2-11) Changes in currents, or the course or direction of water movements? (#l:Pgs 5.2-l 5.2-11) Changes in the quantity of ground waters, either through direct additions or withdrawals, or through interception of an aquifer by cuts OI excavations or through substantial loss of groundwater recharge capability? (#l:Pgs 5.2-l - 5.,2-l 1) Altered direction or rate of flow of groundwater? (#l:Pgs 5.2-l - 5..2-11) Impacts to groundwater quality? (#l:Pgs 5.2-l - 5..2- ‘1) Substantial reduction in the amount of groundwater otlmwise available for public water supplies? (#l:Pgs 5.2-l - 5..2-11) V. AIR QUALITY. Would the proposal: 4 b) 4 4 Violate any air quality standard or contribute to an existing or projected air quality violation? (#l:Pgs 5.3- 1 - 5.3 -12. See also Discussion of Environmental Evaluation section.) Expose sensitive receptors to pollutants? (#l:Pgs 5.3-l - 5.3-12) Alter air movement, moisture, OI temperature, or cause any change in climate? (#l:Pgs 5.3-l - 5.3-12) Create objectionable odors? (#l:Pgs 5.3-l 5.3-12) VI. TRANSPORTATlON/ClRCULATlON. Would the 4 b) C) d) e) 0 8) proposal result in: Increased vehicle trips or traffic congestion? (See Discussion ofEnvironmental Evaluation section) Hazards to safety from design features (e.g., sharp curves OI dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g. farm equipment)? (#l:Pgs 5.7-1 - 5.7.22) Inadequate emergency access or access to nearby uses? (#I:Pgs 5.7-l - 5.7.22) lnsuff~cient parking capacity on-site or off-site? (#l:Pgs 5.7-l - 5.7.22) Hazards or barriers for pedestrians or bicyclists? (#l:Pgs 5.7-l 5.7.22) Conflicts with adopted policies supporting alternative transportation (e.g. bus turnouts, bicycle racks)? (#l:Pas 5.7-l - 5.7.22) Rail, waterborne or a; traftic impacts? (#l:Pgs 5.7-l - 5.7.22) q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q 17 0 q q q El IXI El IXI !x El ta [XI iB !x [XI 6 Rev. 03128196 q q IXI q q El q q IXI q q El q q IXI q q lxl q q [XI q q El q q [XI VII. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES. Would the proposal result =I b) 4 4 4 VIII. 4 b) Cl in impacts to: Endangered, threatened or rare species or their habitats (including but not limited to plants, fish, insects, animals, and birds? (#l:Pgs 5.4-l 5.4-24) Locally designated species (e.g. heritage trees)? (#l:Pgs 5.4-I - 5.4-24) Locally designated natural communities (e.g. oak forest, coastal habitat, etc.)? (#l:Pgs 5.4-l - 5.4-24) Wetland habitat (e.g. marsh, riparian and vernal pool)? (#l:Pgs 5.4-l - 5.4-24) Wildlife dispersal or migration corridors? (#l:Pgs 5.4-l - 5.4-24) ENERGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES. Would the proposal? Conflict with adopted energy conservation plans? (#l:Pgs 5.12.1-l - 5.12.1-5) Use non-renewable resources in a vast.&1 and ineff~cientmanner? (#l:Pgs 5.12.1-l -5.12.1-5) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral ICSOUIC~ that would be of future value to the region and the residents ofthe State? (#l:Pgs 5.13-l - 5.13-g) IX. HAZARDS. Would the proposal involve: =) b) 4 d) e) A risk of accidental explosion or release of hazardous substances (including, but not limited to: oil, pesticides, chemicals OI radiation)? (#l:Pgs 5.10.2-l 5.10.2-g) Possible interference with an emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? (#l:Pgs 5.10.2-l - 5.10.1-9,5.12.5-l-5.12.5-5,5.12.6-1-5.12.6-4) The creation of any health hazard OI potential health hazards? (#l:Pgs 5.10.2-l - 5.10.2-g) Exposure of people to existing sources of potential health hazards? (#l:Pgs 5.10.2-l - 5.10.2-g) Increase fue hazard in areas with flammable brush, grass, or trees? (#l:Pgs 5.4-2, 5.12.5-l - 5.12.5-6, ) X. NOISE. Would the proposal result in: a) Increases in existing noise levels? (#l:Pgs 5.9-l - 5.9- 15. See also Discussion of Environmental Evaluation S&iO”) b) Exposure of people to severe noise levels? (#l:Pgs 5.9- 1 _ 5.9-15. See also Discussion of Environmental Evaluation section) XI. PUBLIC SERVICES. Would the mooosal have an effect . a =I b) C) 4 e) upon, or result in a need for new or altered govemment services in any of the following areas: Fire protection?(#l:Pgs 5.12.5-I - 5.12.5-6) Police protection? (#l:Pgs 5.12.6-l - 5.12.6-4) Schools? (#l:Pgs 5.12.7.1 -5.12.7-s) Maintenance of public facilities, including roads? (See Discussion of Environmental Evaluation section) Other governmental services? (See Discussion of Environmental Evaluation section) q q q q cl q q q q q q q q q q H q q q El 531 q q El q q (XI q q [XI 7 Rev. 03128196 q q [XI q q El q q Ix1 q q El q q El q q q q q q Ix3 [XI q q q [XI q q q q q El q q El q q •l q q [XI q q IXI XILUTILITIES AND SERVICES SYSTEMS. Would the =) b) C) d) e) 0 d XIII. =I b) 4 XIV. =I b) 4 4 4 proposal result in a need for new systems or supplies, or substantial alterations to the following utilities: Powerornatural gas? (#l:Pgs 5.12.1-l - 5.12.1-5) comrill”licatio”s systems? (See Discussion of Environmental Evaluation section.) Local or regional water treatment 01 distribution facilities? (#l:Pgs 5.12.2-I - 5.12.2-6) Sewer or septic tanks? (#l:Pgs 5.12.3-l 5.12.3-7) Storm water drainage? (#l:Pg 5.2.1 - 5.2-11) Solid waste disposal? (#l:Pgs 5.12.4-l - 5.12.4-3) Local or regional water supplies? (#l:Pgs 5.12.2-l 5.12.2-6) AESTHETICS. Would the proposal: Affect a scenic or vista or scenic highway? (#l:Pgs 5.1 l-l - 5.1 l-5. See also Discussion ofEnvironmental Evaluation section.) Have a demonstrated neg.&x aesthetic effect? (#l:Pgs 5.11-l - 5.11-5) Create light or glare? (#l:Pgs 5.10.3-l - 5.10.3-2) CULTURAL RESOURCES. Would the proposal: Dishnb paleontological resources? (#l:Pgs 5.8-l 5% ‘0) Disturb archaeological resources? (#l:Pgs 5.8-l - 5% ‘0) Affect historical resources? (#l:Pgs 5.8-l - 5.8-10 and Appendix H. See also Discussion of Environmental Evaluation section.) Have the potential to cause a physical change which would affect unique ethnic cultural values? (#l:Pgs 5.8-l - 5.8-10) Restrict existing religious or sacred uses within the potential impact area? (#l:Pgs 5.8-l - 5.8-10) XV. RECREATIONAL. Would the proposal: a) Increase the demand for neighborhood or regional parks or other recreational facilities? (#l:Pgs 5.12.8-l - 5.12.8-7) b) Affect existing recreational opportunities? (#l:Pgs 5.12.8-l - 5.12.8-7) q q q B B q q q q q q q q q q q q q B q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q B q q q q q q q q q 0 El !z Ed El IXI H El Ea El IXI [XI !x El El [XI El 8 Rev. 03128196 XVI. 4 b) 4 XVII. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE. Does the project have the potential to degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? Does the project have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? (“Cumulatively considerable” “leans that the incremental effects of a project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects)? Does the project have environmental effects which will cause the substantial adver’se effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? q [XI q q utxl q q q tzl EARLIER ANALYSES USED/SOURCES CITED IN CHECKLIST. The Final Master Environmental Impact Report (Source #l in the checklist) for the 1994 General Plan Update has been used in the analysis of this project since, pursuant to the tiering process, it has already adequately analyzed all potential environmental effects. Relevant CEQA sections on use of previous environmental documents can be found in Guidelines Sections 15063(c)(3)(D) and 15152. In addition, the Citv of Carlsbad Local Coastal Promam (Source #2) was also used to respond to the question on whether the project would conflict with applicable environmental plans or policies adopted by agencies with jurisdiction over the project (question I b. of the checklist). Specific details on each document follow. They are on file in the City of Carlsbad Planning Department located at 1635 Faraday Avenue, Carlsbad, California, 92008, (760) 602-4600. 1. 2. Final Master Environmental Imoact Report for the City of Carlsbad General Plan Update (MEIR 93-Ol), dated March 1994, City of Carlsbad Planning Department. Citv of Carlsbad Local Coastal Program, approved by City Council on July 16, 1996 (Ordinances NS 364 and 365), and certified by the Coastal Commission on October 9, 1996. 9 Rev. 03128196 DISCUSSION OF ENVIRONMENTAL EVALUATION 1. Environmental Setting and Site Description The project site consists of three contiguous and level lots totaling approximately one- half an acre. The site is located on the east side of Carlsbad Boulevard between Tamarack Avenue and Redwood Avenue. On the northernmost of the three lots, which borders Redwood Avenue, is a single-family residence used as a home and btisiness. The business, known as Ledgerwood Seeds or Mr. Seed, is a small retail seed store that has operated at this location for years. Store customers must park in the street as no on-site parking exists. The second of three lots is vacant but features a small garden. Both lots are approximately 5,200 square feet each, have common ownership (and are referenced herein as the “Ledgerwood properties”), and are addressed 3862 Carlsbad Boulevard (Assessor’s Parcel Ntibers 204-253-13 and 14). On the third lot, which parallels Tamarack Avenue, is the Seaside Bistro (formerly the Sandbar Caft?) and parking lot (APN 204-253-20) at 3878 Carlsbad Boulevard. The project site is surrounded by established residential development to the north, south, and east. To the west of the property is Carlsbad Boulevard and, beyond, Carlsbad State Beach and the Pacific Ocean. 2. Project Description A rezone of each property is proposed. City zoning of the Ledgerwood properties would change from C-l (Neighborhood Commercial) to R-3 (Multiple Family Residential). City zoning of the Seaside Bistro property would change from C-2 (General Commercial) to R-3. Furthermore, the project would also apply the Beach Area Overlay Zone to each property. The project site is within the boundaries of the Overlay Zone, and the Overlay Zone applies to any residentially zoned property within its boundaries. The project site is within the Mello II segment of the Carlsbad Local Coastal Program. The Local Coastal Program zoning for all three properties would also change from C-2 to R-3. The designation changes would achieve consistency with the General Plan and Local Coastal Program Land Use Plan land use designations of RH (Residential High Density). All City and Local Coastal Program zoning and land use designations have the same meaning. Based on the approximately one-half acre project site and Growth Management Control Point of 19 du/ac for the RH designation, a maximum 8-l 0 residential units could be built on the entire project site. The proposed R-3 zoning allows both single family and multiple family residential uses. However, since no development is proposed or associated with this City-initiated zone change project, it is not known if the existing uses will remain on the project site A vicinity map identifying the project site’s location, existing and proposed zoning, and the zoning of surrounding properties is attached. 10 Rev. 03/28/96 3. Environmental Analysis (Discussion of Checklist) I. a), b), and e) Land Use and Planning The proposed zone change from commercial to multiple-family residential would be consistent with the project site’s existing General Plan land use designation of high density residential (RH). To a large extent, the General Plan has already analyzed impacts associated with the high density residential use of the property. The project site is bounded by three streets and is a small part of a residential neighborhood. The proposed change in zoning from commercial to residential, and the uses allowed by the proposed zoning, would not disrupt the well-established land use and circulation network of the surrounding area and would be consistent with all adjacent zoning, General Plan, and Local Coastal Program land use designations. Please refer to Chapter 5.6 of the Final Master EIR for additional information and a land use map. It would also improve the compatibility of mture uses on the project site with those on nearby residential properties. II. b) and c) Housing and Population The project site is developed with a commercial use and a single-family home used as both a residence and business and is surrounded by a well-established residential neighborhood. IV. a) and c) w Although already developed, construction of new improvements on the project site may alter current drainage patterns, absorption rates and/or the rate/amount of surface runoff. However, any proposed development would be conditioned to comply with all applicable City regulations, including any appropriate National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit requirements. V. a) Air Oualitv The primary contributor to air pollution in Carlsbad is motor vehicle emissions. The residential uses allowed by the proposed zoning would generate less traffic than the restaurant currently on the project site (see Transportation/Circulation discussion below); therefore, the proposed zoning will contribute to improved air quality. Future development of the project site, if it occurs, may produce short-term/temporary impacts during grading and/or construction. Air quality impacts due to construction would likely be minor, consider the site’s small size, flat topography, and the existence of infrastructure already in place. Standard dust control measures would be utilized. 11 Rev.O3/28/96 VI. a) Transportation/Circulation The proposed residential zoning would allow uses that produce less traffic than the current commercial uses on the project site. Considering the existing Seaside Bistro use only, staff estimates the restaurant produces approximately 400 to over 700 average daily trips. Staff calculates development of the project site with 10 multi-family dwelling units would produce 80 average daily trips (condominiums) and 60 average daily trips (apartments). Ten multi-family dwelling units is a realistic maximum based on the proposed zoning and existing General Plan designation and growth management control point. Furthermore, in most cases, residential uses produce significantly less traffic than commercial uses. All estimates are based on the “estimated weekday vehicle tip generation rate (driveway)” developed by the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) in July 1998. The City of Carlsbad utilizes these estimates to determine traffic impacts. To determine the Seaside Bistro’s traffic impacts, city staff employed the trip generation rate for both a “quality” and a “sit-down, high turnover restaurant,” considered to be 100 or 160 average daily trips/l,000 square feet of building, respectively. Trip generation rates for fast food eateries with and without drive-through are substantially higher. Staff determined the Seaside Bistro’s building size as 4,000 to 4,400 square feet, based on County Assessor’s and City Planning Department records. X. a)andb) Noise Noise levels from Tamarack Avenue and Carlsbad Boulevard traffic may impact residential development allowed by the proposed zoning on the project site. Section 5.9.4 of the Final Master EIR states “traffic noise will increase as the City approaches buildout. These noise impacts can be reduced with proper design and mitigation.” The Final Master ElR contains a number of mitigation measures to reduce noise impacts to a less than significant level. Among them, mitigation measure 5.9.5.7 requires submittal of a noise study for all discretionary applications proposing more than four single family units or any number of multi-family units that are located within the 60 dBA noise contour. The project site is within this noise contour. There is significant, older residential development along parts of Carlsbad Boulevard within the 60 dBA noise contour. From a noise standpoint, the residential neighborhood around the project site likely would benefit from the proposed zone change. Potentially incompatible aspects of commercial uses, such as noise from business traffic and operations during the day and at night, would not be a factor under the proposed residential zoning. Additionally, considering the proposed zoning and project site’s size and proximity to busy streets, it is likely that a comprehensive redevelopment of the project site would be with multi-family units as opposed to single-family units. As noted in the preceding paragraph, any multi-family development would be subject to a noise study and resulting incorporation of any necessary noise mitigation measures. All applicable and appropriate General Plan noise mitigation measures will be incorporated either into the design of improvements that may be built on the project site or as conditions of approval of future development. 12 Rev. 03/28/96 XI. d) and e) Public Services Other than as identified in Chapter 5.12, “Utilities and Pubic Services,” of the Master EIR, no additional impacts to public services or facilities, including maintenance, are described. The project site is in a developed area adequately served by all public services and facilities. The proposed project will not result in significant new demands on those services. The project will be conditioned to comply with the City’s Growth Management regulations, which require that all necessary services be provided concurrent with development. Therefore, there will be no potentially significant impact to public services. XII. b) Utilities and Service Svstems No impact to communications systems is identified in the Master EIR. The project site is in a well-established area with all necessary infrastructure, including telephone and cable services, in place. Therefore, there will be no potentially significant impact to communication systems. 13 Rev.O3/28/96 3 3 XIII. a) Aesthetics The project site is along a designated scenic corridor, Carlsbad Boulevard. It is already developed with buildings. However, mture improvements will be required to comply with all applicable standards to ensure no significant impacts to this scenic roadway and generally no negative aesthetic effect. Among these standards are the provisions of the Beach Area Overlay Zone (BAOZ), which affects the subject property. The intent and purpose of the BAOZ is, in part, to ensure neighborhood compatibility and protection of the aesthetic quality of the beach area. Additionally, since the neighborhood around the project site is residential, the proposed zone change from commercial to residential will also contribute to compatibility among buildings and uses. XIV. c) Cultural Resources It should be noted that Appendix H of the Final Master EIR is a cultural resources survey prepared for the City of Carlsbad in 1990. The survey identifies the residence on the project site at 3862 Carlsbad Boulevard as an historic structure because of its age (now approximately 70 years) and Spanish architecture. However, the City has not adopted or endorsed this or any other cultural resource survey or list. Furthermore, compliance with the City’s historic preservation ordinance is strictly voluntary. The proposed zone change will neither affect the building nor its potential designation as an historic structure. 14 Rev.O3/28/96 ADDENDUM TO THE NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR ZC 99-08 & LCPA 00-01 - CARLSBAD BOULEVARD/TAMARACK ZONE CHANGE The original environmental analysis of this project considered the impacts of rezoning both the ‘Ledgerwood Parcels’ and the ‘Seaside Bistro Parcel’ from commercial to residential. This addendum has been prepared to document that the current proposed Planning Commission recommendation is to consider rezoning only the Ledger-wood Parcels as described in the environmental impact assessment form - part II. The current proposed Planning Commission recommendation regarding the Seaside Bistro Parcel is to recommend the City Council consider allowing it to remain commercial and direct staff to process appropriate land use changes to allow a commercial designation. These future actions will be subject to separate environmental review. Thus, no action is proposed at this time to amend the zoning of the Seaside Bistro Parcel. Planning Commission Resolution No. 4891, the resolution recommending approval of the Negative Declaration, has been amended to reference this addendum. c SITE SITE CITY ZONING CITY ZONING LCP ZONING LCP ZONING EXISTING EXISTING C-l: LEDGERWOOD C-l: LEDGERWOOD C-2: LEDGERWOOD C-2: LEDGERWOOD C-2: SEASIDE BISTRO C-2: SEASIDE BISTRO PROPOSED R-3, BEACH AREA PRf R-3, BEACH AREA OVERLAY ZONE: ALL OVERLAY ZONE: ALL PARCELS PARCELS CARLSBAD BLVD/TAMARACK AVE ZONE CHANGE ZC 99-08/LCPA 00-01