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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1983-08-02; City Council; 7460; Batiquitos Lagoon Management PlanCm F CARLSBAD — AGEND/ -ILL ARtf W6. 0 MTG 8/2/83 RECOMMENDED TITLE: BATIQUITOS LAGOON MANAGEMENT PLAN ACTION: nePT. HD.*-(/^ CITY ATTY "V/sA CITY MGR. ^~^ 1. City Council approve the proposed work program to prepare a Batiquitos Lagoon Management Plan. ITEM EXPLANATION: The proposed Batiquitos Lagoon Management Plan is intended to balance the needs and goals of a rapidly developing region and community with the desire to preserve and enhance significant lagoon qualities (e.g. wildlife habitat and visual character). The Plan will focus on land use issues and will contain policies and guidelines that could be used to interpret the land use element of the General Plan relative to the lagoon. The management plan will be developed according to the attached work program. The plan will not deal with related issues such as restoration and enhancement alternatives, or watershed sediment rate analyses. However, the plan would be flexible enough to accommodate future studies dealing with these issues. The attached work program identifies three tasks and products. Research/Analysis Group will set up a program of four presentations (one presentation per task, plus an initial orientation meeting). These presentations will be to all those interested in the manage- ment plan. The function of these presentations will be to have such interested parties act as a sounding board and review the progress of the plan. The Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation will serve as a liaison between the Research/Analysis Group and those interested in the management plan. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: No environmental review is necessary at this time. However, before Council considers action on the plan, Research/Analysis Group will prepare an Initial Study which will more than likely result in a Negative Declaration being issued. FISCAL IMPACT: The cost of preparing the plan according to the attached work program is estimated to be $19,670. Council is being asked to approve $10,000 to fund salaries and overhead of staff involved in preparing the plan. The Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation has agreed to finance the remaining cost of the plan with monies pledged by interested groups and affected property owners. (See attached letter from the Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation.) < _ EXHIBITS: O LU O CC 0.a. 8 1. Proposal for the Batiquitos Lagoon Management Plan (Work Program) 2. Letter from Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation. PROPOSAL FOR THE BATIQUITOS LAGOON MANAGEMENT PLAN SCOPE OF WORK There are many different types of lagoon management plans currently in existence. Some plans are narrow in scope and focus on one or two critical issues. For example, the Penasquitos Lagoon Plan, by SANDAG, deals primarily with the issue of the lagoon's water quality. A similar plan for San Dieguito Lagoon is slightly more comprehensive in that it deals with a variety of "environmental" issues. However, most lagoon management plans are just aimed at protecting or enhan- cing a lagoon's natural environment. The Research/Analysis Group envisions a more comprehensive manage- ment plan for Batiquitos Lagoon. The plan would identify important environmental, social, economic, and political factors. The plan would balance the needs and goals of a rapidly developing region and community with the desire to preserve and enhance significant lagoon qualities (e.g., wildlife habitat and visual character). The plan will contain generalized land use policies and guidelines which could be used to interpret the land use element of the General Plan relative to the lagoon. Creation of the lagoon management plan would involve data collection comprising existing published work as well as field surveys. Part of the data would be in the form of an inventory of lagoon related characteristics. Another part of the data would be an inventory of community and regional goals and desires concerning the lagoon. It would also include an inventory of land use policies and restric- tions of affected responsible agencies (e.g., Department of Fish & Game, Coastal Commission, etc.). Comparison of goals and desires to environmental constraints and affected agency restrictions would identify various land use possibilities. Land use management guide- lines will be established as a result. The approach that is least damaging to the lagoon and most reflective of community desires will be selected. This will form the basis for the lagoon management plan, The following is an identification and discussion of the specific tasks involved in the production of a lagoon management plan, as con- ceived by the Research/Analysis Group: OUTLINE FOR BATIQUITOS LAGOON MANAGEMENT PLAN TASK I. DELIMIT STUDY AREA - This task will involve a combination of field survey and the utilization of existing data to map boundary factors. A. Determine boundaries of factors that influence the lagoon. Examples: 1. Drainage area 2. Major sediment sources 3. Sewer easements and road alignments B. Determine boundaries of lagoon resources. Examples; 1. Wetlands 2. Estuarian and riparian habitats C. Chart A and B (above) on maps D. Overlay maps to delimit Plan boundary. PRODUCT: The product of Task I is a precise definition of the Management Plan boundaries. TASK II. COMPILE DATA BASE FOR ANALYSIS - This task is divided into three main parts. The first, determining the characteristics of the study area, involves collecting data from published works on various aspects of the area. The second part of this task if to identify the community needs, goals, and values. These could be identified through discussion with citizens groups and affected property owners. The third part of this task would involve compiling applicable statutes, policies, and plans of affected jurisdictional agencies. This should be accomplished in consultation with these agencies. -2- A. Determine Characteristics of Study Area - Collect Data 1. Lagoon History - Natural and Cultural 2. Regional and lagoon hydrology - relationship and impacts of upstream development on issues such as water quality, floods, etc. 3. Geology, soil, and slopes - unstable areas, sedimentation and evaporation rates 4. Biology - including endangered species and subsurface organisms 5. Existing land uses (urban structures, activities, raw land) 6. Existing property ownership B. Identify community needs, goals, and values 1. Lagoon visual character and aesthetics 2. Environmental protection values 3. Circulation and access/public works projects 4. Recreational potential 5. Impending development pressure C. Identify influences and constraints imposed by regulatory agencies with jurisdiction over the lagoon. 1. Applicable statutes and policies (local, coastal, Department of Fish and Game, etc. 2. Designated land uses and zoning PRODUCT: The product of Task II is the identification of community values and goals as well as environmental and governmental constraints relative to the management of the lagoon. TASK III. PREPARE PLAN - Using the physical data of the study area and the community goals information generated in Task II, the plan itself can be prepared. A. Analyze important or conflicting issues to identify major land use goals. This will include an analysis and comparison of the information gathered in II-A (resource constraints), II-B (Goals) and II-C (Governmental constraints). B. Formulate management guidelines and land use plan C. Establish lagoon management plan that includes map, guidelines, and performance criteria. PRODUCT: The primary result would be a land use map showing specific land use designations throughout the study area, and an accompanying text including development guidelines and performance criteria. It could provide a policy frame- work within which decisions, both public and private can be made concerning the physical development of the lagoon. -4- CONCLUSION Staff anticipates a six month preparation period for the Batiquitos Lagoon Management Plan. This estimate assumes that the plan will be prepared in-house. However, if during the plan's preparation staff finds that it needs outside technical assistance, the process may have to stop and wait until the information can be inserted into the system. Should this occur, more time would be required. In any case, staff will need to consult with affected agencies and private and public property owners in the study area. Difficulty in obtai- ning responses may require more time. The methodology proposed in the scope of work not only synthesizes the approach established by previous lagoon management plans, it attempts to produce a more comprehensive plan. Instead of a plan that merely researches and reports on the lagoon's environment, the plan proposed above would incorporate additional factors. Examples would be community goals and needs for housing, recreation and envi- ronmental protection. Hopefully, the results will be a reasonable balance of land uses. Recent development pressures on property adjacent to the lagoon have established the need for more detailed land use guidelines than are contained in the City's General Plan. The management plan will establish land use designations, guidelines, and performance criteria for the Batiquitos Lagoon study area. Currently, there are several conflicting and ambiguous policies regarding lagoon land uses. The Research/Analysis Group believes that from the City's standpoint, the management plan, as outlined above, will help to clarify the lagoon's land use issues for land owners and the public in general. In addi- tion, this plan can provide the decision makers with an improved ability to make land use decisions in and around the lagoon. There are a number of land use controls in effect now which directly effect the lagoon (e.g. San Dieguito LCP and Carlsbad General Plan). The Lagoon Management Plan will aid in administering these other plans, and/ or lead to amendments. It should be noted that the above work program is limited in scope. Peripheral issues such as lagoon restoration and enhancement alter- natives, or watershed sediment production rate analyses should be the topic of separate studies. Any change to the above work program in "mid-stream" will require a re-evaluation of the work program and review/approval of the City Council. BATIQUITOS LAGOON MANAGEMENT PLAN - WORK PROGRAM Time and Cost Estimates: * TASK I One month Planner Principal Planner Manager Sub-total: 48 hours 15 hours 2 hours 65 hours TASK II Two months Planner Principal Planner Manager Sub-total: 192 hours 62 hours 7 hours 261 hours TASK III Three months Planner Principal Planner Manager Sub-total: Clerical Total Hours: 288 hours 98 hours 8 hours 394 hours 75 hours 796 ($20/hr. = Xeroxing/Printing/Graphics Orientation & Review Presentations TOTAL COST *These estimates include four general meetings with those interested in the plan: preparation, graphics & participation - 100 hrs. total @ $20/hr. = $2,000. $15,920 1,750 2,000 - $19,670 BATIQUITOS LAGOON FOUNDATION July 27, 1983 City Council City of Carlsbad 1200 Elm Avenue Carlsbad, California 92008 Dear Council Members: On June 15, the Foundation distributed the attached letter. The response was immediate. Most of the agencies showed interest and support of a Batiquitos Lagoon Management Plan. They offered assistance in its production, while supporting the City of Carlsbad's role as lead agency. Copies of these letters of support are also attached. Two private property owners will be contributing financially to the plan. Leucadia County Water District has pledged up to $18,000 towards a management plan. We now have enough pledges to ensure the City of Carlsbad does not have to assume all costs as lead agency. We are requesting that the pledged money be given to the Foundation and held in a separate account. This money will be paid out upon completion of the plan. The Foundation worked with Jim Hagaman and staff to develop the recommendations the Research/Analysis Group has proposed. We request that you act tonight to begin production of the Batiquitos Lagoon Management Plan. We look forward to serving as liason between the City of Carlsbad and other concerned groups in creation of this much needed plan. Sincerely, William T. Dean Director WTD:kc attchs. 6992 El Camino Real, Suite 104-449 Carlsbad, CA 92008 BATIQUITOS LAGOON FOUNDATION June 15, 1983 Mr. Jim Hagaman Research and Analysis Group City of Carlsbad 1200 Elm Avenue Carlsbad, CA 92008 Dear Mr. Hagaman: A number of developments, proposals and concepts are currently being -proposed for Batiquitos Lagoon. Because of the number of agencies, development is costly and inconsistant. The Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation supports the development of a lagoon management plan. This will provide a policy framework within which decisions, both public and private, can be made concerning development guidelines and performance criteria. \. The Foundation's immediate objective is to promote a plan that helps bring all interested parties together. A Batiquitos Lagoon Management Plan as outlined by the City of Carlsbad's Research/Analysis Group will accomplish this objective. The Foundation supports the City of Carlsbad's desire to provide the lead in producing the management plan. Tne cost for this plan is currently estimated at $18,000. To initiate production of this plan, the Foundation intends to contribute up to $4,000. We will raise this money through memberships and direct contributions. It is our hope that other interested parties will contribute financially, or through some other form of assistance. The following is a partial list of parties that will benefit from a lagoon management plan. Because of this benefit, everyone should be ready, willing and able to participate in producing an effective management plan. Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation City of Carlsbad Hunt Property Inc. California Department of Fish and Game California Coastal Conservancy California Coastal Commission Other Private Property Owners Leucadia County Water District La Costa Hotel and Spa 6992 El Camino Real, Suite 104-449 Carlsbad, CA 92008 County of San Diego City of San Marcos U.S. Array Corps of Engineers U.S. Department of Fish and Game State Water Resource Control Board SANDAG With our initial pledge of $4,000, we are confident that you will also join in, to ensure production of a Batiquitos Lagoon Management Plan. Your immediate attention to this matter will be greatly appreciated. William T. Dean Director, Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation Enclosure - 2 -;o STATE OF CALIFORNIA—THE RESOURCES AGENCY GEORGE DEUKMEJIAN, Governor DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME 245 W. Broadway, Suite 350 Long Beach, CA 90802 (213) 590-5189 July 19, 1983 William T. Dean, Director Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation 6992 El Camino Real Suite 104-449 Carlsbad, CA 92008 Dear Mr. Dean: Please excuse the delay in responding to your letter of June 15, 1983. The Department's primary objective for Batiquitos Lagoon is to insure that the natural resources of the lagoon are maintained in a biologically productive state. Ue support the development of a management plan that achieves this objective. As a landowner in the lagoon, we are willing to participate in the planning process to the extent that manpower and funding are available. Unfortunately, the Department is unable to contribute funding towards the planning process at this time. We look forward to working with you to achieve our objective of enhancing the natural resource values of Batiquitos Lagoon. Sincerely, Earl M. Lauppe Associate Wildlife Biologist San I)ict>() ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS Suite 524 Security Pacific Plaza 12OO Third Avenue San Diego, California 921O1 (619) 236-53OO July 13, 1983 William T. Dean, Director Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation 6992 El Camino Real, Suite 104-449 Carlsbad, CA 92008 Dear Mr. Dean: The San Diego Association of Governments has long been interested in the preservation of Batiquitos Lagoon, having designated it as a "regional park" in our Open Space Plan as well as a sensitive natural resource area. While we recognize your need for money to develop an appropriate manage- ment plan for the sensitive lagoon area, SANDAG cannot provide funding to assist in the effort. We will be glad, however, to provide information which may be useful to you. Because you expect to include social and economic considerations, you may need census data or population, employ- ment and development forecasts; these can be made available by SANDAG through the City of Carlsbad, as a member agency. We are pleased to find the management plan proceeding, and we will do whatever we can to encourage your efforts. Sincerely, «—'"^/^Ji^-^t HARRIET M. STOCKWELL Chairwoman, Board of Directors HMS:B MEMBER AGENCIES: Cit.es of Carlsbad, Chula Vista, Coronado, Del Mar, El Cajon, Escondicio, Imperial Beach, La t.'sia. Lemon Grove, Nation:.! City, Oct •..-:. tie. Po'.\ay, San Diego, San Marco;, Saniee and Vista ADVISORY/LIAISON MEMBERS: Calif. Dept. of Trsr.sponation/U.S. Dept. of Defense and Ti|Libnd/8ajaCu:.f. Mori United States Department of the Interior FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE ECOLOGICAL SERVICES 24000 Avila Road Laguna Niguel, California 92677 July 12, 1983 Mr. William T. Dean Director, Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation 6992 El Camino Real, Suite 104-449 Carlsbad, California 92008 Re: Request for Assistance in Preparation of the Batiquitos Lagoon Management Plan Dear Mr. Dean: We have received your request for assistance in preparing the Batiquitos Lagoon Management Plan, and we are encouraged that your group has begun this ambitious and necessary project. We concur that the complexity of pro- perty ownerships, private interests and agency jurisdictions demonstrate the need for a lagoon management plan. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide funding for this endeavor; however, we can and will provide equally valuable technical assistance in identifying significant fish and wildlife species, habitats, and constraints. Other areas of our expertise include the defining of wetland boundaries, assessing the impacts of various land uses on fish and wildlife, and the formulation or evaluation of wildlife and fisheries management practices. We look forward to working with you on this effort. If we can be of assis- tance, please contact Mr. Gary Wheeler or myself at (714) 831-4270. Sincerely yours, Ralph C. Pisapia Field Supervisor STATE OF CALIFORNIA-BUSINESS, TRANSPORTATION HOUSING AGENCY GEORGE DEUKMEJIAN, Governor DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF TRANSPORTATION PLANNING 1120 N STREET P.O. BOX 1499 SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA 95807 (916) 323-4995 July 1, 1983 Mr. William T. Dean Director Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation 6992 El Carnino Real, Suite 104-449 Carlsbad, California 92008 Dear Mr. Dean: The Director of Transportation, Leo Trombatore, has asked me to reply to your letter inviting Caltrans to contribute to the development of a Batiquitos Lagoon Management Plan. Caltrans is unable to contribute financially to the development of the plan. However, our District Office in San Diego can provide you with information on transportation plans and projects and environmental resources in the area. For such assistance, please contact Carl West, Supervising Planner, at (619) 237-6681. His address is: California Department of Transportation District 11 2829 Juan Street San Diego, California 92110 Thank you for sharing your information of the plan development effort with us. Sincerely, D. L. WIEMAN, Chief Division of Transportation Planning July 5, 1983 Mr. William T. Dean Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation R65 Normandy Leucadia, California 92024 Dear Bill: TheCaliforni State Coasta CONSERVANC I want to follow up your recent letter concerning a proposed Batiquitos Lagoon Management Plan by expressing the Conservancy's support for the leadership role assumed in this matter by the Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation. As we have indicated on numerous occasions, the Conservancy is interested in seeing that a workable enhancement plan be developed for the lagoon, a plan addressing both the lagoon basin itself and the surrounding watershed. As you know, Alyse Jacobson of our staff recently wrote a letter to Frank Aleshire, Carlsbad City Manager, transmitting the Conservancy's comments regarding the Lagoon Management Plan Scope of Work proposed by the City. It is our hope that Alyse ('s specific fechnrcal suggestions will be reflected in the plan as it ultimately evolves. In addition, the Conservancy has accumulated extensive expertise in wetlands management, particularly in the development of enhancement plans that satisfy the requirements of the Coastal Act, We are interested in bringing that expertise to hear in the development, execution, and implementation of the Batiquitos Lagoon Management Plan. We have also demonstrated the capability to involve the public through workshops and other avenues to ensure that such plans meet local concerns. The Conservancy supports the Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation in taking a primary role in the development of a Lagoon Management Plan. Further, we would like to once again emphasize our encouragement for the City of Carlsbad to support and contribute to the Lagoon Plan, Once again, we are appreciative of the Foundation's efforts and look forward to contributing our expertise to this important cooperative venture in wetland resource management. With best wishes, f=^7N — St^hen F. Harper ^ Nonprofit Project Analyst Crenel! Acting Executive Officer SFH:drg State of California — Resources Agency George Oeukmejian Governor 1330 Broadway. Suile 1100 Oakland. California 9^12 ATSS 561-1070 Telephone 4!5/-i6-i-10i5 LB CDStR EXECUTIVE OFFICES June 27, 1983 Mr. William T. Dean Director, Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation 6992 El Camino Real, Suite 104-449 Carlsbad, CA 92008 Dear Mr. Dean: Your letter regarding a proposed management plan for the lagoon was read with interest and I would like to extend my compliments on the time and effort you and the other members of the Foundation have dedicated to this project. I am in agreement with the need for such a plan, as the lagoon is one of the great natural assets in our commu- nity and should be enhanced as much as practical. La Costa would be willing to contribute to the proposal; however, I feel that Hunt Property, Inc., should first be contacted to see whether or not they have such a plan being developed or under consideration, as they have proprietary rights in the area. If they do not, perhaps they should be asked to develop one for submittal to the City and other governmental agencies who have both a legislative and administrative responsibility for the lagoon. In any event, I would appreciate you keeping me informed on the matter. Sincerely, Irv Roston La Costa Hotel and Spa IR:gh COSTA DEL MAR ROAD • CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA B2OOS • AREA CODE 714 . TELEPHONE -436 - 3111 STATE OF CALIFORNIA GEORGE DEUKMEJIAN. Governor CALIFORNIA REGIONAL WATER QUALITY CONTROL BOARD SAN DIEGO REGION 6154 Mission Gorge Road (Mail: Suite 205/Enter: Suite 106} San Diego, California 92120-1939 Telephone: (619)265-5114 July 25, 1983 Mr. William T. Dean Director Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation 6992 El Camino Real Suite 104-449 Carlsbad, California 92008 Dear Mr. Dean: Thank you for sending me a copy of the City of Carlsbad's proposal for the Batiquitos Lagoon Management Plan. I believe implementation of the proposal should result in development of a comprehensive plan that will be well accepted by the public. It appears that Regional Board participation would be appropriate in the following areas: 1. Provision of water quality/quantity data from the Regional Board's files. 2. Review and interpretation of water quality/quantity data from other agencies or parties and participation in the design of any necessary water quality monitoring programs. 3. Identification of Regional Board plans, policies and regulations that would impact the lagoon management plan. 4. Review of beneficial use designations for the lagoon waters. 5. Review of draft and final plan documents and provision of comments relevant to water quality issues. 6. Participation in any water quality related committees or subcommittees that may be set up as a part of the planning effort. There may also be other areas where we can be of assistance. Our participation, of course, could be limited because of increasing demands on our limited resources. However, I am confident that we can participate to some degree. Please keep me apprised of the progress of your planning effort. Very truly yours, Supervising Engzneer ALC:ej cc: Archie Matthews, SWRCB 7 LEUCADIA COUNTY WATER DISTRICT POST OFFICE BOX 2397 • LEUCADIA. CALIFORNIA 92O24 • 733-OI55 July 22, 1983 Mr. William T. Dean BATIQUITOS LAGOON FOUNDATION 765 Normandy Leucadia, CA 92024 Dear Bill , The Leucadia County Water District is pleased to inform you that we will be participating financially in the Lagoon Master Plan proposed by the City of Carlsbad. Our Board of Directors has pledged up to $18,000 toward the plan with the expectation that the other government agencies and private owners will also be contributing their fair share. The Board supports the Foundation's efforts and participation in the Master Plan. The Board also recognizes the City of Carlsbad as the lead agency in this plan. LCHD has based their financial commitment on a more detailed outline of the Master Plan and that specific regulations regarding development, grading, zoning, etc. be enforced and instigated as a result of this plan. LCWD also will require an outline of the costs of the plan and to whom this money shall be paid. LCWD looks forward to working closely with the Foundation on this worth- while endeavor. Please keep us informed of your progress. Sincerely, LEUCADIA COUNTY WATER DISTRICT Lois E. Humphreys President, Board of Directors LEH/bls DISTRICT OFFICE: I960 LA COSTA AVENUE • CARLSBAD. CALIFORNIA PAUL ECKERT Supervisor • Fifth District COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO 1600 PACIFIC HWY • SAN DIEGO. CA 9210)236-2293 July 26, 1983 Mr. William T. Dean Director Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation 6992 El Camino Real, Suite 104-449 Carlsbad, CA 92008 Dear Mr. Dean: It was a pleasure to receive your recent letter regarding the proposals and concepts currently being considered for Batiquitos Lagoon. We realize the magnitude of this type of project and the many hours of time and concentrated effort that will be needed to bring your plans to reality. My office would like to add its support to your project and be available to help the Foundation as is appropriate and be kept apprised of all the ongoing developments. We feel the enhancement of the Lagoon for the citizens of North County is not only in the best interests of the City of Carlsbad but will have positive affects in the entire County of San Diego. Again, we add our support to your organization and its future ^lans for the Batiquitos Lagoon. Supervisor, Fifth District sg °\ VISTA OFFICE: 325 SO. MEIROSE DRIVE, CA 92083 • TELEPHONE 758-6626 STATE OF CALIFORNIA GEORGE OEUKMEJIAN, Governor STATE WATER RESOURCES CONTROL BOARD P.O. BOX 100, SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA 95801 (916) 455-3085 July 20, 1983 Mr. William T. Dean, Director Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation 6992 El Camino Real, Suite 104-449 Carlsbad, CA 92008 Dear Mr. Dean: BATIQUITOS LAGOON MANAGEMENT PLAN Chairwoman Onorato asked me to reply to your letter of June 15, 1983 regarding Batiquitos Lagoon. The State Board is pleased that steps are being taken to protect Batiquitos Lagoon and other valuable coastal water resources. Unfortu- nately, we are not able to participate in the funding of the project to develop the Batiquitos Lagoon Management Plan. I understand that the California Regional Water Quality Con- trol Board, San Diego Region, will work with the City of Carlsbad and other project participants to develop the management plan. I would appreciate being kept informed about the progress of your project. If the State Board can be of assistance in some way other than financial, please contact me. Sincerely, Clint Whitne] Executive Director cc: State Board Members California Regional Water Quality Control Board, San Diego Region 6154 Mission Gorge Road, Suite 205 San Diego, CA 92120