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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020-09-16; Planning Commission; Resolution 7381PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 7381. A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING CERTIFICATION OF THE FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE MARJA ACRES PROJECT, AND RECOMMENDING ADOPTION OF THE CANDIDATE FINDINGS OF FACT AND A MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A MIXED-USE PROJECT CONSISTING OF 248 TOWNHOMES, 46 AFFORDABLE SENIOR APARTMENTS, AND 10,000 SQUARE FEET OF SPECIAL TY COMMERCIAL USES ON 20.65 ACRES AT 4901 EL CAMINO REAL, GENERALLY LOCATED SOUTH OF EL CAMINO REAL EAST OF KELLY DRIVE, NORTH OF PARK DRIVE, AND WEST OF WEST RANCH STREET/LISA STREET, WITHIN THE MELLO II SEGMENT OF THE LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM AND IN LOCAL FACILITIES MANAGEMENT ZONE 1. CASE NAME: MARJA ACRES CASE NO.: EIR 2017-0001 (DEV16038) WHEREAS, NUWI Carlsbad, LLC, "Developer," has filed a verified application with the City of Carlsbad regarding property owned by Michael W. and Marja D. Selna Family Trust 09-10-81 and Hoffman Legacy Trust 12-17-12, "Owner," described as PARCEL 1: PARCEL "B" OF CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE FOR ADJUSTMENT PLAT FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF SAN DIEGO COUNTY, MAY 30, 2013 AS DOCUMENT NO. 2013-0338927 OFFICIAL RECORDS, DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF PARCEL 2 OF CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF SAN DIEGO COUNTY, SEPTEMBER ·--·-- 22, 1982 AS FILE NO. 82:-293200 OFFICIAL RECORDS, SAID POINT ALSO BEING THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID .PARCEL "B"; THENCE SOUTH 01°58'54" WEST 315.79 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 64°58'15;' WEST 1291.66 FEET; THENCE NORTH 76° 18'48" WEST 361.82 FEET; THENCE NORTH 18°32'.12" EAST 5.25.56 FEET; THENCE NORTH 83°17'35" EAST 654.12 FEET; THENCE NORTH 87°30'41" EAST 333.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 77°50'00" EAST 275.01 FEET; THENCE NORTH 01 °58'54" EAST _124.51 FEET; .THENCE NORTH 87°27'37" EAST 110.00 FEET TO THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID PARCEL "B". APN: 207-101-35-00 PARCEL 2: PARCEL "A" OF CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE FOR ADJUSTMENT PLAT FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF SAN DIEGO COUNTY, MAY 30, 2013 AS DOCUMENT NO. 2013-0338927 OFFICIAL RECORDS; PARCEL "A" CONSISTS OF PARCEL 1 OF PARCEL MAP NO. 3451 IN THE CITY OF CARLSBAD, COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO, STATE . . OF CALIFORNIA, FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF SAN DIEGO COUNTY, JANUARY 31, 1975 AS FILE NO. 75-023997 OFFICIAL RECORDS AND A PORTION OF PARCEL 2 OF CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF SAN DIEGO COUNTY, SEPTEMBER 22, 1982 AS FILE NO. 82-293200 OFFICIAL RECORDS, TOGETHER WITH THAT PORTION OF LOTS I AND E OF RANCHO AGUA HEDIONDA, IN THE CITY OF CARLSBAD, COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, ACCORDING TO MAP NO. 823, FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF SAN DIEGO COUNTY NOVEMBER 16, 1986, LYING WITHIN EL CAMINO REAL (COUNTY ROAD SURVEY NO. 682) AS VACATED AND ABANDONED BY RESOLUTION RECORDED DECEMBER 21, 1976 AS FILE NO. 76-428052 OFFICIAL RECORDS; PARCEL "A" IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID PARCEL 1; THENCE ALONG THE NORTHERLY PROLONGATION OF THE WESTERLY LINE OF SAID PARCEL 1, NORTH 18°32'12" EAST, 11.32 FEET TO A POINT ON THE ARC OF A NON- TANGENT 1673.00 FOOT RADIUS CURVE CONCAVE NORTHERLY, A RADIAL LINE TO SAID POINT BEARS SOUTH 26°43'20" WEST, SAID CURVE BEING SOUTHERLY AND CONCENTRIC WITH THE CENTERLINE OF ROAD SURVEY 1800-1, ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF COUNTY SURVEYOR OF SAN DIEGO COUNTY; THENCE EASTERLY ALONG SAID CURVE THROUGH A CENTRAL ANGLE OF 22°59'39" AN ARC DISTANCE OF 671.41 FEET TO A POINT ON THE NORTHERLY LINE OF SAID PARCEL 1, A RADIAL LINE TO SAID POINT BEARS NORTH 3°43'41" EAST; THENCE NON-TANGENT TO SAID CURVE AND CONTINUING ALONG THE NORTHERLY LINE OF SAID PARCEL 1 NORTH 87°27'37" EAST, 205.36 FEET TO THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID PARCEL 1, SAID POINT ALSO BEING THE N.ORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID PARCEL 2; THENCE ALONG THE NORTHERLY LINE OF SAID PARCEL 2 NORTH 87°27'37" EAST, 263.56 FEET; THENCE LEAVING SAID NORTHERLY LINE SOUTH 01°58'54" WEST, 124.51 FEET; THENCE S.OUTH 77°50'00" WEST, 257.37 FEET TO THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SAID PARCEL 1; THENCE SOUTH 77°50'00." WEST, 17.64 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 87°27'37" WEST, 333.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 83°17'35" WEST, 654.12 FEET TO THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SAID PARCEL 1, SAID POINT ALSO BEING THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID PARCEL 2; THENCE NORTH 18°32'12" EAST, 440.00 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. APN: 207-101-37-00 ("the Property"); and WHEREAS, a Project Environmental Impact Report (EIR 2017-0001) was prepared in conjunction with said project; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission did on September 16, 2020, hold a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by law to consider said request; and WHEREAS, at said public hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimony and arguments, examining the Project EIR, Candidate Findings of Fact, and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, analyzing the information submitted by staff, and considering any written comments received, the Planning Commission considered all factors relating to the Project EIR. PC RESO NO. 7381 -2- NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED by the Planning Commission of the City of Carlsbad as follows: A) That the foregoing recitations are true and correct. B) That the Final Project Environmental Impact Report consists of the Final Project Environmental Impact Report, EIR 2017-0001, dated August 19, 2020, appendices, written comments and responses to comments, as amended to include the comments and documents of those testifying at the public hearing and responses thereto, is hereby found to be in good faith and reason by incorporating a copy of the minutes of said public hearing into the report, all on file in the Planning Division incorporated by this reference, and collectively referred to as the "Report." C) That the Environmental Impact Report, EIR 2017-0001, as so amended and evaluated, is recommended for acceptance and certification as the final Environmental Impact Report and that the final Environmental Impact Report as recommended is adequate and provides reasonable information on the project and all reasonable and feasible alternatives thereto, including no project. D) That based on the evidence presented at the public hearing, the Planning Commission hereby RECOMMENDS CERTIFICATION of the Environmental Impact Report for the MARJA ACRES project, EIR 2017-0001 and RECOMMENDS ADOPTION of the Candidate Findings of Fact ("CEQA Findings"), attached hereto marked as "Exhibit A" and incorporated by this reference and of the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program ("Program"), attached hereto marked as "Exhibit B" and incorporated by this reference; based on the following findings and subject to the following cond ition. Findings: 1. The Planning Commission of the City of Carlsbad does hereby find that the FinalProject EIR 2017- 0001, the Candidate Findings of Fact and the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, have been prepared in accordance with requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act, the State EIR Guidelines, and the Environmental Review Procedures of the City of Carlsbad. 2. The Planning Commission of the City of Carlsbad has reviewed, analyzed, ahd considered Final Project EIR 2017-0001, the environmental impacts therein identified for this project; the Candidate Findings of Fact ("Findings" O! "CEQA Findings") attached hereto as "Exhibit A," and the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program _("Program") attached hereto as "Exhibit B," prior to RECOMMENDING APPROVAL of this project. 3. The Planning Commission finds that Final EIR 2017-0001 reflects the independent judgment of the City of Carlsbad Planning Commission. 4. The Planning Commission does accept as its own, incorporate as if set forth in full herein, and make each and every one of the findings contained in the CEQA Findings ("Exhibit A"), including feasibility of mitigation measures pursuant to Public Resources Code 21081 and CEQA Guidelines 15091, and infeasibility of project alternatives. PC RESO NO, 7381 -3- 5. The Planning Commission hereby finds that the Program ("Exhibit B") is designed to ensure that during project implementation, the Developer and any other responsible parties implement the project components and comply with the feasible mitigation measures identified in the CEQA Findings and the Program. 6. The Record of Proceedings for this project consists of The Report, CEQA Findings, and Program; all reports, applications, memoranda, maps, letters and other planning documents prepared by the planning consultant, the environmental consultant, and the City of Carlsbad that are before the decision makers as determined by the City Clerk; all documents submitted by members of the public and public agencies in connection with the Project EIR; minutes of all public meetings and public hearings; and matters of common knowledge to the City of Carlsbad which they may consider, including but not limited to, the Carlsbad General Plan, Carlsbad Zoning Ordinance, and Local Facilities Management Plan which may be found at 1200 Carlsbad Village Drive in the custody of the City Clerk, and 1635 Faraday Avenue in the custody of the City Planner. Condition: 1. The Developer/Owner shall implement the mitigation measures described in "Exhibit B," the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, for the mitigation measures and monitoring programs applicable to development of the Marja Acres project. PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Carlsbad, California, held on September 16, 2020, by the following vote, to wit: AYES: Chair Anderson, Commissioners Geidner, Lafferty, Luna, Meenes, Merz, and Stine NOES: .ABSENT: ABSTAIN: VELYN ANDERSON, Chairperson CARLSBAD PLANNING COMMISSION ATTEST: DON NEU City Planner PC RESO NO. 7381 -4- Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 1-1 CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT FINDINGS OF FACT (PUBLIC RESOURCES CODE §21081 CEQA GUIDELINES §15091) Final Environmental Impact Report (EIR 2017-0001) Marja Acres Project (SCH No. 2018041022) 1 Introduction A Final Environmental Impact Report (hereafter “Final EIR”) has been prepared pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) to address the potential environmental effects of the proposed Marja Acres Project and associated actions (hereafter “proposed project”) and considered by the City in connection with its public consideration of requested approvals for the proposed project. The proposed project involves the development of a total of 294 dwelling units consisting of 235 townhomes within the R-15 General Plan designated area, and 46 age-restricted affordable apartment units, 13 townhomes, a 4,000-square-foot restaurant pad and a 6,000-square-foot retail pad area within the General Commercial General Plan designated area. The full scope of the proposed project and associated approvals are detailed further in Section 1.1 and Section 1.3 of the Final EIR. It should be noted that the Final EIR contains many references to 296 dwelling units. Following public review of the Draft EIR and in response to one of the comments received, a minor change was made to the project site plan to incorporate a buffer for an off-site riparian area that resulted in the elimination of two (2) dwelling units. While the majority of the references in the Final EIR to 296 units will remain, these findings reflect the current project description that includes 294 dwelling units. The proposed project would utilize the opportunities provided by the Residential Density Bonus and Incentives or Concessions section of the Carlsbad Zoning ordinance (Carlsbad Municipal Code [CMC] Chapter 21.86). This allows up to a 35 percent increase in the number of units beyond the maximum General Plan density calculations. The Final EIR also analyzed the environmental effects of a range of project alternatives. The Final EIR and its separately bound technical appendices are incorporated herein by reference as though fully set forth. 1.1 Proposed Project The proposed project consists of 20.65 acres of land located within Local Facilities Management Zone (LFMZ) 1, in the Northwest Quadrant of the City of Carlsbad, in northern San Diego County. The City of Carlsbad is bordered to the north by the City of Oceanside, to the south by the City of Encinitas, to the east by the cities of Vista and San Marcos, and on the west by the Pacific Ocean. The project site is located approximately two miles east of the Pacific Ocean and 31 miles north of downtown San Diego. Regional access to the project site is provided by I-5 and SR-78. EXHIBIT A Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project 1-2 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad The proposed project would be constructed and located on two parcels (Assessor Parcel Numbers 207-101-35 and 207-101-37) totaling 20.65 acres of land. The project site is located south of El Camino Real, east of Kelly Drive, north of Park Drive, and west of Lisa Street/West Ranch Street. 1.1.1 Project Characteristics The project site is designated by the Carlsbad General Plan as General Commercial (GC) and R-15 Residential (R-15). Areas with the R-15 designation are intended to be developed with housing at a density between 8 to 15 dwelling units per acre. The adoption of the Carlsbad General Plan included a requirement that the R-15 parcel on the project site be developed at a density of at least 12 units per acre. In addition, the R-15 parcel is required to provide 20 percent of the units as affordable housing to households earning up to 80 percent of the area median income (AMI) or two other options, compared to the city’s standard inclusionary requirement of 15 percent at that affordability level. Housing types allowed in the R-15 designation may include two-family dwellings (two attached dwellings, including one unit above the other) and multi-family dwellings (three or more attached dwellings); detached single-family dwellings may be permitted on small lots or when developed as two or more units on one lot, subject to specific review and community design requirements. The GC designation includes sites that provide general commercial uses that may be neighborhood serving and/or serve a broader area of the community than local shopping centers. Sites with this designation may be developed with a stand-alone general commercial use, two or more general commercial uses, or mixed use (general commercial uses and residential dwellings, with residential density to be 15 dwelling units per acre at a minimum based on 25 percent of the site’s developable acreage). The project site is zoned Residential Density-Multiple (RD-M) and General Commercial (C-2). The intent and purpose of the RD-M zone is to implement the residential medium density, residential medium-high density and residential high-density land use designations of the Carlsbad General Plan and to provide regulations and standards for the development of residential dwellings. The C-2 zone provides regulations and standards for the development of general commercial uses that serve the local community. Permitted uses in the C-2 zone include a range of retail, wholesale, and service uses, as well as residential uses within a mixed use development. The proposed project includes the development of 294 total dwelling units, of which 235 would be townhomes within the R-15 Residential General Plan designated area. Located within the GC-designated area would be 46 age-restricted affordable apartments, 13 townhomes, a 4,000-square-foot restaurant pad and a 6,000-square-foot retail pad area. The residential breakdown of the proposed project is shown in Table 1. Table 1. Proposed Residential Unit Mix Parcel General Plan Designation Units Total Units Townhomes Age-Restricted Affordable Apartments Parcel 1 GC 13 46 59 Parcel 2 R-15 235 0 235 Total 294 Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 1-3 Total Allowed Units General Plan. Each of the city’s residential land use designations specifies a density range that includes a minimum density, maximum density, as well as a Growth Management Control Point (GMCP) density (the GMCP density ensures residential development does not exceed the number of dwellings permitted in the city’s Growth Management Plan). At the upper end of the Carlsbad General Plan’s allowable density range, a total of 224 dwelling units would be allowed on the project site based on: a) the maximum density for the net developable acreage of the residentially-zoned parcel; and b) the allowable 25 percent of net developable acreage for residential in a mixed-use development on the commercially-zoned parcel. Density Bonus. The number of total dwelling units proposed on the project site (294 units) exceeds what is allowed on the project site at the upper end of the Carlsbad General Plan’s allowable density range (224 units). In order to reach the proposed 294 dwellings units, the project applicant would utilize the opportunities provided by state law and the Residential Density Bonus and Incentives or Concessions section of the Zoning Ordinance (Chapter 21.86 of the CMC), which implements California Government Code Sections 65915 – 65918). This allows up to a 35 percent increase in the number of units beyond the maximum base level Carlsbad General Plan density calculations. Eighty density bonus units are allowed on the project site with the 35 percent density bonus provisions. The additional 80 density bonus units would increase the total allowable units from 224 to 304. While the project site could be developed with a total of 304 units (with the density bonus provisions), the project applicant is requesting 70 density bonus units (10 fewer units than the total allowed under the density bonus provisions [80]), for a total of 294 residential units. Excess Dwelling Units City Council Policy 43 is the established policy for the number and allocation of Proposition E (Growth Management) “excess” dwelling units. Policy 43 establishes the city’s policy regarding the number and the criteria for allocation of “excess” dwelling units which have become available as a result of residential projects being approved and constructed with less dwelling units than would have been allowed by the density control points of the GMP as approved by the voters as Proposition E on November 4, 1986. At the median of the Carlsbad General Plan’s allowable density range, a total of 145 dwelling units would be allowed on the R-15 parcel. Although the actual net acreage of the residentially-zoned parcel would allow 145 dwelling units, the total number of units allocated as a result of the Carlsbad General Plan land use change was 135 dwelling units, so 135 units is the baseline. In order to reach the proposed 294 dwellings units, the project applicant is requesting a withdrawal of 158 dwelling units from the city’s Excess Dwelling Unit Bank (294 proposed units - 135 units allocated by General Plan - one existing unit to be demolished = 158 units). No residential units were assumed or allocated with the Carlsbad General Plan update for commercial sites. Townhomes in Residentially-Zoned Area The proposed project’s residential zone townhome component includes 235 townhomes with a variety of building configurations (3-plex to 10-plex) and unit sizes. Smaller buildings (three-plex and four-plex) are proposed to be located along the southwestern portion of the project site while the larger building configurations would be strategically located in the northeastern interior of the project site. The proposed grading concept would place the residential units along the southern perimeter of the project site at an elevation such that residents of the new residential structures would not “look down” onto Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project 1-4 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad the backyards of the existing single-family properties located immediately to the south of the project site. The townhomes will be no more than three stories and up to 35 feet in height, some with allowable protrusions above 35 feet per CMC Section 21.46.020 for stairwells, roof decks and parapets/railings. These units include three bedrooms, and range in size from 1,700 to 2,350 square feet. All units will have direct access from the interior of the unit to a private two-car garage. Private storage will also be provided in the garage. Visitor parking will be provided along the primary private loop road and will be well above the ratio of one visitor space for every four units as required by the CMC Planned Development Ordinance (Chapter 21.45). Townhomes in Commercially-Zoned Area Thirteen townhomes are proposed in the commercially-zoned area. These townhomes will be of similar layouts and scale as the townhomes in the residential area; however, these units will be more complementary in style and architecture to the commercial buildings. Age-Restricted Inclusionary Housing In accordance with Chapters 21.85 and 21.86 of the CMC, the proposed project will meet the requirements of the Inclusionary Housing Ordinance and state Density Bonus Law by designating an area within the project site for age-restricted affordable housing. In accordance with Table A in Section 21.86.040 of the CMC, the project applicant is requesting a 35 percent density bonus. The approval of the Carlsbad General Plan required the project site to provide a minimum of 20 percent affordable housing or one of two options per Planning Commission Resolution No. 7114. The project proposes the equivalent of meeting Resolution No. 7114’s option to provide 15 percent of the total units affordable to senior households earning 50 percent AMI. Under this option, a total of 44 affordable units would be required. In order to achieve a deeper level of affordability including some units at 30 percent AMI, the project is providing 46 senior affordable units or 15.6 percent of the project’s total units. The affordable units include five (5) apartments at 30 percent AMI. The other 39 of the required units will be provided at 50 percent AMI (23 apartments) and 60 percent AMI (16 apartments). The project includes an additional two (2) apartments at 60 percent AMI that could otherwise be market-rate apartments, for the project total of 46 affordable apartments. The units will be rented to age-restricted households in these lower income levels. The development of the inclusionary housing units will also comply with CMC Chapter 21.84 – Housing for Senior Citizens. A formal Affordable Housing Agreement will be prepared and approved prior to the approval of the first final map. The 46 age-restricted affordable apartments will be located in one building adjacent to El Camino Real and the primary entrance to the site within the commercial area. The units will be mostly one- bedroom, with one two-bedroom, apartments and may range in size from 525 square feet up to 750 square feet. Due to the provision of age-restricted inclusionary housing, none of the inclusionary housing units will include three bedrooms. Commercial Uses The proposed project would include a 4,000-square-foot restaurant pad and a 6,000-square foot retail pad area within the commercially designated area of the project site. The actual square footage of the constructed retail and restaurant space may vary depending on the future design of the commercial area. Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 1-5 Landscape Plan The policies, programs, and requirements of the City of Carlsbad’s Landscape Manual apply to all public and private development requiring discretionary permits or submittal of landscape plans for development permits. The proposed project is required to comply with the provisions of the Landscape Manual with respect to planting, irrigation, water conservation, streetscape, slope revegetation/erosion control, and fire protection. Furthermore, the city will review detailed landscape construction plans at the time permits (i.e., grading and building) are applied for as part of the subsequent development of the proposed project. Community Recreational Space Per Section 21.45.060 of the CMC, 200 square feet of community recreational space is required per unit on the portion of the project site designated as R-15. A minimum of 75 percent of the required amount of community recreational space is to be allocated for active recreational facilities. Community recreational space would be provided as both passive and active recreational facilities for a variety of age groups. The proposed project would provide 35,965 square feet (sf) of active recreational facilities and 16,429 sf of passive recreational facilities for a total of 52,394 sf on the residential portion of the project site. On the commercially-designated portion of the project site, the proposed project would provide 3,710 sf of passive recreational facilities where 920 sf is required. Private Recreational Space The proposed project would provide private recreational spaces in the form of balconies, patios, or roof decks per Section 21.45.080 of the CMC. Circulation and Access Vehicular access to the project site will be provided at two entry points from El Camino Real. The main entry will be located on the western portion of the project site and will include a landscaped median. This entry point will provide for right-in and right-out access only, and will include a deceleration lane on El Camino Real. The secondary project site entry is also proposed from El Camino Real, and would be located on the eastern portion of the site. This second entry point will also provide for right-in and right-out access only and includes a deceleration lane. Both vehicular site access locations provide for appropriate sight distance in accordance with city codes and policies. Access to the commercial and age-restricted uses will be provided via the project site internal private street and private driveways. Access to the residential portions of the proposed project will be provided via the private loop street and private drive aisles. All private streets will contain sidewalks for safe pedestrian circulation. Other sidewalks and pathways will be provided for internal pedestrian circulation between the residential areas, commercial area, and recreational areas. El Camino Real in the project vicinity was recently improved to its buildout 6-lane Arterial Street standard as part of the Robertson Ranch development located across the street from the proposed project. As such, intersection configurations, lane widths, bike lane and bus stop configurations, pedestrian sidewalk and crosswalk facilities are considered built out to city standards. 1-6 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project Grading Grading and earthwork will be required to modify the existing sloping, hillside topography for residential and commercial development. The proposed project will require approximately 255,549 cubic yards of cut and approximately 186,446 cubic yards of fill. Approximately 69,103 cubic yards would be exported. Efforts will be made toward creating balanced earthwork. Final grading will be governed by the final grading plan. Grading will conform to the Carlsbad Development Code, Chapter 15.16, Grading and Erosion Control. The Development Code contains rules and regulations to control excavation, grading, and earthwork. The proposed grading concept and design of the project site would maintain the slope alignment in an east to west direction, but would decrease the extent of the slope heights, which ultimately enhances the view of the site from El Camino Real. In order to maximize the privacy of the existing adjacent homes, the higher topographical elevations of the site located along the southern portion of the site will be lowered significantly to improve the project’s compatibility with the surrounding area. Lowering the topographical elevations along this portion also accommodates the privacy concerns expressed by existing adjacent residents. The lowering of the topography in the southern portion of the site to address privacy concerns results in an increase in the volume of the project site grading. Density Bonus Incentives, Concessions and Waivers The city's Residential Density Bonus and Incentives or Concessions Ordinance (CMC § 21.86) and the California State Density Bonus Law (Government Code §§ 65915 – 65918) seeks to encourage the development of affordable housing by offering incentives, concessions and waivers or reductions to standards for projects that provide on-site affordable housing. By providing 20 percent of the base maximum density units as affordable, the proposed project is entitled to two incentives. First, the applicant has requested an award of 158 dwelling units (credit for one existing unit) from the city's Excess Dwelling Unit Bank. Council Policy 43 states that allocation of excess dwelling units is an allowable incentive for increased density in the city. Second, the applicant has requested permission to construct a horizontal, rather than vertical, mixed-use development on the commercial parcel. Specifically, the applicant is requesting that CMC Section 21.28.015(A), which requires that mixed-use development in the C-2 zone include nonresidential uses on the ground floor and residential uses above the ground floor, not be applied to the proposed project so that residential and commercial uses can occur in separate buildings on the commercial parcel. As shown in Table 2, the applicant also requests the following six waivers from or reductions in applicable development standards. Table 2. Waiver/Reduction Requests Requested Waiver Development Standard Proposed Project Building Setback Waiver CMC § 21.45.080 Zero setback where 10’ is required; provides 10' landscaped parkway, sidewalk and landscaped buffer area between curb and buildings Retaining Wall Height Waiver CMC § 21.95.140(C)(1) Maximum retaining wall height of 23'; all retaining walls exceeding 6' in height are not visible from the public right of way Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 1-7 Table 2. Waiver/Reduction Requests Requested Waiver Development Standard Proposed Project Secondary Residential Uses Waiver CMC § 21.28.015(C)(2) Mix of residential and commercial uses on the C-2 designated parcel Parkway and Sidewalk Width Reduction CMC § 21.45.060 Parkways - 3.5' – 5' instead of 5.5’ Sidewalks – 4' – 4.5' instead of 5’ Maximum Cut and Fill Waiver El Camino Real Corridor Development Standard Section IV(B) Cuts/fills exceeding 10 feet Grading Volume Waiver CMC § 21.95.040(d)(2) Earthwork exceeding 10,000 cubic yards/acre to maintain privacy for adjacent existing homeowners 1.2 Project Objectives The project applicant has identified the following objectives for implementing the proposed project: • Promote the construction of workforce housing near existing employment centers, infrastructure, and public utilities. • Provide a quality residential community of attached single-family homes attainably priced for young families and professionals. • Provide low-income and very-low income age-restricted affordable housing to implement the Carlsbad General Plan and statewide housing goals. • Redevelop and infill site identified in the city’s Housing Element as underutilized with much-needed housing and neighborhood commercial uses. • Design and implement a walkable mixed-use community that provides a balance of affordable and market rate housing connected to community gathering areas and commercial amenities. • Create a new mixed-use community consistent with the goals and policies of the Carlsbad General Plan and LCP. • Facilitate the establishment and operation of a community garden and vegetable stand to serve residents, as well as visitors to the proposed project’s commercial and gathering spaces. • Provide pedestrian-scale, economically viable neighborhood commercial uses that serve proposed project residents and visitors while also paying homage to past uses and structures on the site. • Provide neighborhood recreational and open space amenities that will induce residents to minimize travel, resulting in a reduction of GHG emissions. • Design a community that encourages social interaction by integrating land use types and mobility within the community. • Utilize context sensitive grading techniques and project design features to ensure compatibility with adjacent residential land uses. Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project 1-8 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad 1.3 Project Approvals Actions and Approvals by the City of Carlsbad The following identifies the legislative and discretionary actions and approvals by the City of Carlsbad for the proposed project. In conformance with Sections 15050 and 15367 of the State CEQA Guidelines, the City of Carlsbad has been designated as the “lead agency,” which is defined as, “the public agency which has the principal responsibility for carrying out or approving a project.” The following identifies the discretionary actions and approvals by the city for the proposed project. • Tentative Map (CT 16-07). The Applicant is requesting approval of a Tentative Tract Map required for development of the proposed project site. A tentative tract map is required by the California Subdivision Map Act (Government Code §66426 et seq.) • Planned Development Permit – Residential (PUD 16-09). The Applicant is requesting a PUD to facilitate individual ownership of units and subdivision of the residential areas. • Planned Development Permit - Nonresidential (PUD 2018-0007). The Applicant is requesting a nonresidential PUD to facilitate individual ownership of commercial and age-restricted lots, and mixed-use-residential units, along with subdivision of the commercial site. Includes rescinding of Precise Plan 20 adopted in 1968. • Site Development Plan (SDP 2018-0001). An SDP is required for the age-restricted affordable housing component of the proposed project and for the proposed residential uses located with the General Commercial zone. • Coastal Development Permit (CDP 16-33). A CDP is required to construct the proposed project. This permit is necessary as the project site is located in the Coastal Zone within the Mello II Segment of the LCP, and is within the appellate jurisdiction of the California Coastal Commission. • Hillside Development Permit (HDP 16-02). Grading of the proposed project site is subject to the city’s Hillside Development Ordinance as project areas contain hillside conditions that are defined as slopes greater than 15 feet in height and 15 percent in slope. The purpose of the HDP is to regulate grading per the city’s Hillside Development Ordinance (Municipal Code Chapter 21.95) standards and policies. • Special Use Permit (16-02). The project site is located along El Camino Real within the Scenic Preservation Overlay and is subject to the El Camino Real Corridor Development Standards. Thus, an SUP is required for the proposed project. • Final EIR Certification (EIR 2017-0001). After the required public review of the Draft EIR, the city will respond to comments, edit the document, and produce a final EIR to be certified by the city decision-maker as complete and providing accurate information concerning the environmental impacts from the implementation of the proposed project. Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 1-9 Discretionary Action and Approvals by Other Agencies The project site supports a low-quality drainage ditch that could qualify as non-wetland waters of the U.S. (WOUS) subject to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) jurisdiction pursuant to Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 404, non-wetland waters of the state subject to Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) jurisdiction pursuant to CWA Section 401, and unvegetated streambed subject to California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) jurisdiction pursuant to California Fish and Game Code (FGC) Sections 1600 et seq. The proposed project will require the following agency notifications and permits: • USACE - The project applicant shall prepare and submit notification to the USACE for unavoidable impacts to non-wetland WOUS. Based on the USACE’s CWA Section 404 Nationwide Permit program, project activities would be covered under NWP 29 - Residential Developments, contingent upon waiver of the 300 linear feet limit for this permit. • RWQCB - The project applicant shall prepare and submit a CWA Section 401 Request for Water Quality Certification to the RWQCB for unavoidable impacts to non-wetland waters of the state. • CDFW - The project applicant shall prepare and submit a California Fish and Game Code Section 1602 Notification of Lake or Streambed Alteration to the CDFW for unavoidable impacts to unvegetated jurisdictional streambed. 1.4 Purpose of CEQA Findings CEQA Findings play an important role in the consideration of projects for which an EIR is prepared. Under Public Resources Code §21081 and CEQA Guidelines §15091 above, where a final EIR identifies one or more significant environmental effects, a project may not be approved until the public agency makes written findings supported by substantial evidence in the administrative record as each of the significant effects. In turn, the three possible findings specified in CEQA Guidelines §15091(a) are: (1) Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effect as identified in the final EIR. (2) Such changes or alterations are within the responsibility and jurisdiction of another public agency and not the agency making the finding. Such changes have been adopted by such other agency or can and should be adopted by such other agency. (3) Specific economic, legal, social, technological, or other considerations, including provision of employment opportunities for highly trained workers, make infeasible the mitigation measures or project alternatives identified in the final EIR. Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project 1-10 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad CEQA Guidelines §15092(b) provides that no agency shall approve a project for which an EIR was prepared unless either: 1. The project as approved will not have a significant effect on the environment, or 2. The agency has: a. Eliminated or substantially lessened all significant effects on the environment where feasible as shown in the findings under Section 15091, and b. Determined that any remaining significant effects on the environment found to be unavoidable under Section 15091 are acceptable due to overriding concerns as described in Section 15093. Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 2-1 2 Findings of Significant Impacts, Required Mitigation Measures and Supporting Facts The City, having reviewed and considered the information contained in the EIR, finds pursuant to Public Resources Code §21081(a)(1) and Guidelines §15091(a)(1) that changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which would mitigate, avoid, or substantially lessen to below a level of significance the following potential significant environmental effects identified in the EIR. 2.1 Biological Resources 2.1.1 Special-Status Species – Nesting Birds A. Significant Impact. The project site contains trees, shrubs, and other vegetation that provide marginal nesting habitat for common birds, including sensitive birds and raptors, protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and California FGC. Construction of the proposed project could result in the removal or trimming of trees and other vegetation during the general bird nesting season (January 15 through September 15) and, therefore, could result in impacts on nesting birds and violation of the MBTA and California FGC. Direct impacts could occur as a result of removal of vegetation supporting an active nest. Impacts would be considered significant. B. Facts in Support of Finding (1). The project’s potential impact associated with nesting birds would be mitigated to a level less than significant with the implementation of Mitigation Measure BIO-1. C. Mitigation Measures Mitigation Measure BIO-1 Nesting Bird and Raptor Avoidance. If initial grading and vegetation removal activities (i.e., earthwork, clearing, and grubbing) must occur during the general bird breeding season for migratory birds and raptors (January 15 and September 15), the project applicant shall retain a qualified biologist to perform a preconstruction survey of potential nesting habitat to confirm the absence of active nests belonging to migratory birds and raptors afforded protection under the MBTA and California FGC. The preconstruction survey shall be performed no more than 7 days prior to the commencement of grading and/or vegetation removal activities. If the qualified biologist determines no active migratory bird or raptor nests occur, the activities shall be allowed to proceed without any further requirements. Should an active nest of any MBTA-covered species occur within or adjacent to the project impact area, a 100-foot buffer (300 feet for raptors) shall be established around the nest, and no construction shall occur within this area until a qualified biologist determines the nest is no longer active or the young have fledged. 2.1.2 Sensitive Natural Community A. Significant Impact. Implementation of the proposed project would result in a direct impact to the vegetation community acreages – which includes 12.4 acres of disturbed habitat/disced land, 0.3 acre of disturbed habitat, 2.1 acre of ornamental/non-native vegetation, and 5.7 acre of urban/developed. Project development would only impact common upland habitat types (Carlsbad Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project 2-2 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad Habitat Management Plan [HMP] Habitat Group F) that are not sensitive natural communities. Impacts to non-sensitive upland habitat types require purchase of in-lieu fee credits under the Carlsbad HMP. Potential significant indirect impacts could occur if stormwater runoff is not controlled at the construction site, and sediment, toxics, and/or other material is inadvertently carried into sensitive habitat within the adjacent off-site Kelly Creek. Further, if the construction work areas are not properly fenced, inadvertent encroachment into adjacent sensitive riparian habitat associated with Kelly Creek could occur. Once constructed, the proposed project uses would likely generate certain pollutants that could affect water quality downstream from the project site. The potential water quality impact associated with operation of the proposed project is considered a significant impact. B. Facts in Support of Finding (1). The project’s potential direct impact associated with sensitive natural communities would be mitigated to a level less than significant with the implementation of Mitigation Measure BIO-2. The project’s potential indirect impact associated with sensitive natural communities would be mitigated to a level less than significant with the implementation of Mitigation Measure BIO-3 and WQ-1. The project’s potential water quality impact associated with operation of the proposed project would be mitigated to a level less than significant with the implementation of Mitigation Measure WQ-2. C. Mitigation Measures Mitigation Measure BIO-2 Habitat Management Plan In-Lieu Mitigation Fee. Prior to recordation of a final map or issuance of a grading permit, whichever occurs first, the project applicant shall pay habitat in lieu mitigation fees according to the ratios and amounts established by the HMP for Natural Communities in the City of Carlsbad. Mitigation Measure BIO-3 Construction Fencing. The applicant shall show the locations of temporary construction fencing with the first submittal of grading plans. Temporary construction fencing (with silt barriers) shall be installed at the limits of project impacts (including construction staging areas and access routes) adjacent to sensitive habitat to prevent sensitive habitat impacts and the spread of silt from the construction zone into adjacent habitats. Fencing may be required at the western end of the project to separate project impacts from the off-site sensitive habitat of Kelly Creek. Fencing shall be installed in a manner that does not impact habitats to be avoided. The applicant shall submit to the City of Carlsbad for approval at least 30 days prior to grading permit issuance, the final plans for project construction. These final plans shall include photographs that show the fenced limits of impact and areas to be impacted or avoided. Employees shall strictly limit their activities, vehicles, equipment, and construction materials to the fenced project footprint. All equipment maintenance, staging, and dispensing of fuel, oil, coolant, or any other such activities shall occur in designated areas within the fenced project impact limits. These designated areas shall be located in previously compacted and disturbed areas to the maximum extent practicable in such a manner to prevent any runoff from entering adjacent open space and shall be shown on the construction plans. Fueling of equipment shall take place within existing disturbed areas greater than 100 feet from Kelly Creek. Contractor equipment shall be checked for leaks prior to operation and repair, as necessary. “No fueling zones” shall be designated on construction plans. Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 2-3 If work occurs beyond the fenced or demarcated limits of impact, all work shall cease until the problem has been remedied to the city’s satisfaction. Any impacts that occur to environmentally sensitive areas beyond the approved fence shall be mitigated in accordance with ratios specified in the Carlsbad HMP or as otherwise determined by the City of Carlsbad in coordination with the USFWS, USACE, RWQCB, and/or CDFW. Temporary construction fencing shall be removed upon project completion. Mitigation Measure WQ-1 Prior to issuance of a grading permit for any phase of the development, the applicant shall prepare and submit for review and approval of the Carlsbad City Engineer, a SWPPP to demonstrate that pollutants will be controlled through compliance with the City of Carlsbad Stormwater Management and Discharge Control Ordinance, General Construction Stormwater Permit (Order No. 2012-0006-DWQ, NPDES CAS000002), and the General Municipal Stormwater Permit (R9-2013-0001, as amended by Order Nos. R9-2015-0001 and R9-2015-0100, NPDES No. CAS0109266). The applicant shall be responsible for monitoring and maintaining the BMP erosion control measures identified below on a weekly basis in accordance with the city’s grading and erosion control requirements (Municipal Code Section 15.16. et seq.). The locations of all erosion control devices shall be noted in the SWPPP referenced on the grading plans. BMPs that shall be installed include, but are not limited to, the following: • Silt fence, fiber rolls, or gravel bag berms; • Check dams; • Street sweeping and vacuuming; • Storm drain inlet protection; • Stabilized construction entrance/exit; • Hydroseed, soil binders, or straw mulch; • Containment of material delivery and storage areas; • Stockpile management; • Spill prevention and control; • Waste management for solid, liquid, hazardous, and sanitary waste-contaminated soil; and • Concrete waste management. Mitigation Measure WQ-2 Prior to the issuance of grading permits or other approvals for any public or private right of way improvements, whichever comes first, the developer shall prepare and submit for review and approval of the Carlsbad City Engineer, SWQMP, grading and improvement plans that demonstrate that pollutants will be controlled through compliance with the City of Carlsbad BMPDM. Approval of such plans shall be subject to a determination by the Carlsbad City Engineer that the proposed project has implemented an integrated Low Impact Development (LID) approach to meet criteria described in the City of Carlsbad BMPDM. The proposed project has incorporated LID strategies which include site design BMPs, source control BMPs and pollutant control BMPs into the project design to the maximum extent practicable. Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project 2-4 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad 2.1.3 Jurisdictional Waters A. Significant Impact. The project site supports a low quality drainage ditch that could qualify as non-wetland WOUS subject to USACE jurisdiction pursuant to CWA Section 404, non-wetland waters of the state subject to RWQCB jurisdiction pursuant to CWA Section 401, and unvegetated streambed subject to CDFW jurisdiction pursuant to California FGC Sections 1600 et seq. B. Facts in Support of Finding (1). The project’s potential impact associated with jurisdictional waters would be mitigated to a level less than significant with the implementation of Mitigation Measure BIO-4. Existing regulations require the USACE, RWQCB, and CDFW be notified and, if required, permits and approvals be obtained from these agencies prior to the impacts occurring. Mitigation for impacts shall occur at a minimum 1:1 ratio through on and/or off site establishment/re-establishment, rehabilitation, enhancement, and/or preservation. Implementation of Mitigation Measure BIO-4 would ensure the appropriate regulatory permits are obtained and mitigation obligations are fulfilled in accordance with existing regulations pertaining to non-wetland WOUS/waters of the state and unvegetated streambed. C. Mitigation Measures Mitigation Measure BIO-4 Regulatory Permitting and Compensatory Mitigation. Impacts to all or portions of the unnamed drainage ditch on the project site shall require the following agency notifications and permits prior to approval of the final map: • The project applicant shall prepare and submit notification to the USACE for unavoidable impacts to non-wetland WOUS. Based on USACE’s CWA Section 404 NWP program, project activities would be covered under NWP 29 – Residential Developments, contingent upon waiver of the 300 linear feet limit for this permit. • The project applicant shall prepare and submit a CWA Section 401 Request for Water Quality Certification to the RWQCB for unavoidable impacts to non-wetland waters of the state. • The project applicant shall prepare and submit a California FGC Section 1602 Notification of Lake or Streambed Alteration to the CDFW for unavoidable impacts to unvegetated jurisdictional streambed. If required by the USACE, RWQCB, and/or CDFW in regulatory permits, the project applicant shall implement compensatory mitigation at a minimum ratio of 1:1 for the unavoidable loss of jurisdictional waters, which would include one or a combination of the following measures: • The project applicant shall purchase preservation, establishment/ re-establishment, rehabilitation, and/or enhancement credits from a mitigation bank approved by the USACE, RWQCB, and/or CDFW; and/or, Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 2-5 • The project applicant shall implement permittee responsible preservation, establishment, re-establishment, rehabilitation and/or enhancement at an on or off site location approved by the USACE, RWQCB, and/or CDFW, including preparation and implementation of a conceptual mitigation plan, habitat mitigation monitoring plan, restoration plan, and/or long term management plan, unless otherwise specified by the USACE, RWQCB, and/or CDFW. A conservation easement, restrictive covenant, or other protection shall be recorded over the mitigation area, and the area shall be managed in perpetuity in accordance with the long term management plan, unless otherwise specified by the USACE, RWQCB, and/or CDFW. 2.1.4 Wildlife Corridors A. Significant Impact. Construction work limits will be contained within temporary construction fencing. Project operation has the potential to result in significant indirect impacts on wildlife potentially using off site habitat associated with Kelly Creek if lighting is not appropriately shielded and directed downward and away. B. Facts in Support of Finding (1). The project’s potential impact associated with wildlife corridors would be mitigated to a level less than significant with the implementation of Mitigation Measures BIO-3 and BIO-5. C. Mitigation Measures Mitigation Measure BIO-3 (as listed above) Mitigation Measure BIO-5 Project Lighting. Prior to issuance of a grading permit or building permit, whichever is applicable for the particular lighting, the applicant shall submit an exterior lighting plan for City Planner approval. All exterior lighting adjacent to off-site habitat associated with Kelly Creek to the west shall be limited to low pressure sodium or alternative sources in the amber spectrum of the lowest illumination allowed for human safety, selectively placed, shielded, and directed away from habitat to the maximum extent practicable. 2.1.5 Conflict with Adopted Habitat Management Plan A. Significant Impact. The proposed project may have impacts to non-sensitive upland habitat types that require purchase of in-lieu fee credits under the HMP. There may be direct or indirect impacts to nesting birds, including HMP species, off-site sensitive habitat may be impacted by construction activities, and adjacent habitat may need protection from project lighting. B. Facts in Support of Finding (1). The project’s potential impact associated with consistency with HMP species requirements would be mitigated to a level less than significant with the implementation of Mitigation Measures BIO-1, BIO-2, BIO-3, and BIO-5. C. Mitigation Measures Mitigation Measure BIO-1 (as listed above) Mitigation Measure BIO-2 (as listed above) Mitigation Measure BIO-3 (as listed above) Mitigation Measure BIO-5 (as listed above) Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project 2-6 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad 2.2 Cultural Resources 2.2.1 Archaeological Resources A. Significant Impact. The presence of previously recorded archaeological resources in the area suggests a potential for the occurrence of previously undiscovered archaeological resources on the project site. B. Facts in Support of Finding (1). The project’s potential impact associated with previously undiscovered archaeological resources would be mitigated to a level less than significant with the implementation of Mitigation Measure CR-1. C. Mitigation Measure Mitigation Measure CR-1 The following shall be implemented to minimize impacts to subsurface tribal cultural resources: a. Prior to the commencement of ground disturbing activities, the project developer shall contract with a qualified professional archaeologist and shall enter into a Tribal Cultural Resource Treatment and Monitoring Agreement (also known as a pre-excavation agreement) with the San Luis Rey Band of Mission Indians, or another Traditionally and Culturally Affiliated Native American tribe (“TCA Tribe”), for monitoring during ground disturbing activities. The agreement will contain provisions to address the proper treatment of any tribal cultural resources and/or Luiseño Native American human remains inadvertently discovered during the course of the project. The agreement will outline the roles and powers of the Luiseño Native American monitors and the archaeologist and shall include the provisions below. A copy of said archaeological contract and Tribal Monitoring agreement shall be provided to the City of Carlsbad prior to the issuance of a grading permit. b. A Luiseño Native American monitor shall be present during all ground disturbing activities that may impact native soils. Ground disturbing activities may include, but are not limited to, archaeological studies, geotechnical investigations, clearing, grubbing, trenching, excavation, preparation for utilities and other infrastructure, and grading activities. c. The landowner shall relinquish ownership of all cultural resources collected during ground disturbing activities and from any previous archaeological studies or excavations on the project site to the TCA Tribe referenced in CR-1(a) for proper treatment and disposition per the Cultural Resources Treatment and Monitoring Agreement for reburial and treated in accordance with the TCA Tribe’s cultural and spiritual traditions within an appropriate protected location determined in consultation with the tribes and protected by open space or easement, etc., where the cultural items will not be disturbed in the future, and shall not be curated, unless ordered to do so by a federal agency or a court of competent jurisdiction. When tribal cultural resources are discovered during the project, if the archaeologist collects such resources, a Luiseño Native American monitor must be present during any testing or cataloging of those resources. d. All historical cultural resources uncovered by the archaeologist will be collected and treated following the guidelines and regulations set forth under 36 CFR 79, federal regulations for collection of cultural materials. Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 2-7 e. The archaeologist and Luiseño Native American monitor shall be present at the project’s on-site preconstruction meeting to consult with grading and excavation contractors concerning excavation schedules and safety issues, as well as consult with the principal archaeologist concerning the proposed archaeologist techniques and/or strategies for the project. f. Luiseño Native American monitors and archaeological monitors shall have joint authority to temporarily divert and/or halt construction activities within the immediate vicinity of a find. If archaeological artifact deposits, cultural features or tribal cultural resources are discovered during construction, all earth moving activity within 100 feet, or otherwise determined appropriate and necessary by the archaeologist and Luiseño Native American monitor, around the immediate discovery area must be diverted until the Luiseño Native American monitor and the archaeologist can assess the nature and significance of the find. g. If a significant tribal cultural resource(s) and/or unique archaeological resource(s) are discovered during ground disturbing activities for the project, the San Luis Rey Band of Mission Indians and the Rincon Band of Luiseno Indians shall be notified and consulted with by the City regarding the significance of the resources, and the respectful and dignified treatment of those resources. All sacred sites, significant tribal cultural resources and/or unique archaeological resources encountered within the project area shall be avoided and preserved as the preferred mitigation, if feasible. If however, a data recovery plan is authorized by the City as the Lead Agency under CEQA, the contracted TCA Tribe referenced in CR-1(a) shall be notified and consulted regarding the drafting and finalization of any such recovery plan. For significant artifact deposits or cultural features that are part of a data recovery plan, an adequate artifact sample to address research avenues previously identified for sites in the area will be collected using professional archaeological collection methods. If the Qualified Archaeologist collects such resources, the Luiseño Native American monitor must be present during any testing or cataloging of those resources. Moreover, if the Qualified Archaeologist does not collect the cultural resources that are unearthed during the ground disturbing activities, the Luiseño Native American monitor, may at their discretion, collect said resources and provide them to the contracted TCA Tribe referenced in CR-1(a) for respectful and dignified treatment in accordance with the Tribe’s cultural and spiritual traditions. h. With the written permission of the TCA Tribe referenced in CR-1(a), the developer, and with the approval of the City of Carlsbad, the archaeologist may make 3D scans of agreed-upon unique archaeological resource(s). The archaeologist shall make prints from the scans and shall submit the digital files and the associated prints for curation at the San Diego County Archaeological Society. The archaeologist shall also provide the digital files to the consulting tribes. The developer or designee shall bear the costs associated with the scanning, printing and curation of the digital files and prints. i. If suspected Native American human remains are encountered, California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5 states that no further disturbance shall occur until the San Diego County Medical Examiner has made the necessary findings as to origin. Further, pursuant to California PRC Section 5097.98(b) remains shall be left in place and free from disturbance until a final decision as to the treatment and disposition has been made. Suspected Native American remains shall be examined in the field and kept in a secure location at the site. A Luiseño Native American monitor shall be present during the examination of the remains. If the San Diego County Medical Examiner determines the Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project 2-8 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad remains to be Native American, the Medical Examiner must contact the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) within 24 hours. The NAHC must then immediately notify the Most Likely Descendant (MLD) upon receiving notification of the discovery. The MLD shall then make recommendations within 48 hours of being granted access to the site and engage in consultation concerning treatment of remains as provided in PRC 5097.98. If the MLD does not make recommendations within 48 hours, the area of the property must be secured from further disturbance. If no recommendation is given, the property owner or his or her authorized representative shall re-inter the human remains and items associated with Native American burials with appropriate dignity on the property in a location not subject to further subsurface disturbance in accordance with California Public Resources Code Section 5097.98(e). j. In the event that fill material is imported into the project area, the fill shall be clean of tribal cultural resources and documented as such. Commercial sources of fill material are already permitted as appropriate and will be culturally sterile. If fill material is to be utilized and/or exported from areas within the project site, then that fill material shall be analyzed and confirmed by an archaeologist and Luiseño Native American monitor that such fill material does not contain tribal cultural resources. k. No testing, invasive or noninvasive, shall be permitted on any recovered tribal cultural resources without the written permission of the contracted TCA Tribe referenced in CR-1(a). l. Prior to the release of the grading bond, a monitoring report and/or evaluation report, if appropriate, which describes the results, analysis, and conclusions of the monitoring program shall be submitted by the archaeologist, along with the Luiseño Native American monitor’s notes and comments, to the City of Carlsbad for approval. Confidential portions of said report per state law shall be subject to confidentiality as an exception to the Public Records Act and will not be available for public distribution. 2.2.2 Paleontological Resources A. Significant Impact. Implementation of the proposed project would result in a potentially significant paleontological resource impact in association with grading/excavation in previously undisturbed areas of the Santiago Formation, which has a high sensitivity for paleontological resources. The development of the proposed project may directly or indirectly negatively impact or destroy a yet unidentified paleontological resource without proper mitigation. B. Facts in Support of Finding (1). The project’s potential impact associated with paleontological resources would be mitigated to a level less than significant with the implementation of Mitigation Measures CR-2 through CR-7. C. Mitigation Measures Mitigation Measure CR-2 Prior to the issuance of a grading permit, the project applicant shall enter into a contract with a qualified Principal Paleontologist to monitor the site, and provide a copy of the contract to the City of Carlsbad. The paleontologist shall be present at the project’s on-site preconstruction meeting to consult with grading and excavation contractors concerning excavation schedules, safety issues and procedures, and shall monitor all grading that includes initial cutting into any area of the project site, as the project site sits on paleontologically-sensitive Santiago Formation deposit. If any Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 2-9 paleontological resources are identified during these activities, the paleontologist shall temporarily divert construction until the significance of the resources is ascertained. Mitigation Measure CR-3 Paleontological monitoring shall occur only for those undisturbed sediments wherein fossil plant or animal remains are found with no associated evidence of human activity or any archaeological context. Mitigation Measure CR-4 Paleontological monitors shall be equipped to salvage fossils as they are unearthed to avoid construction delays and remove samples of sediments, which are likely to contain the remains of small fossil invertebrates and vertebrates. Monitors shall be empowered to temporarily halt or divert equipment to allow removal of abundant or large specimens. Monitoring may be reduced if the potentially fossiliferous units described above are not present or if the fossiliferous units present are determined by a qualified paleontological monitor to have low potential to contain fossil resources. Mitigation Measure CR-5 All recovered specimens shall be prepared to a point of identification and permanent preservation, including washing of sediments to recover small invertebrates and vertebrates. Mitigation Measure CR-6 Specimens shall be identified and curated into an established, accredited, professional museum repository with permanent retrievable storage such as the San Diego Natural History Museum. The paleontologist shall have a written repository agreement in hand prior to the issuance of a grading permit and initiation of mitigation activities. Mitigation Measure CR-7 Prior to the release of grading bonds, the paleontologist shall complete a report describing the methods and results of the paleontological monitoring and data recovery program, and file a copy of the report at the San Diego Natural History Museum. 2.2.3 Human Remains A. Significant Impact. Implementation of the proposed project could inadvertently impact undiscovered human remains during excavation and grading activities. B. Facts in Support of Finding (1). The project’s potential impact associated with the disturbance of human remains would be mitigated to a level less than significant with the implementation of Mitigation Measure CR-8. Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project 2-10 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad C. Mitigation Measure Mitigation Measure CR-8 As summarized in section (i) of Mitigation Measure CR-1, if human remains or remains that are potentially human are found during any ground disturbance associated with project development activities, including the archaeological test or data recovery programs, the project proponent and its agents must comply with PRC 5097.98 and California Health and Safety Code 7050.5. a. The archaeologist in consultation with the Native American monitor(s) shall ensure reasonable measures are taken so that the discovery location will be protected and secured from further disturbance. b. The archaeological project manager shall notify the County Medical Examiner. c. If the remains are determined by the medical examiner to be of Native American ancestry, the medical examiner will notify the NAHC within 24 hours. d. The NAHC will designate and contact the MLD. e. The property owner will provide the MLD with access to the discovery location, which will have been protected from damage. f. The MLD will make a recommendation for treatment of the remains within 48 hours of being granted access to the property. The descendant’s preferences for treatment may include the following: i. The nondestructive removal and analysis of human remains and items associated with Native American human remains. ii. Preservation of Native American human remains and associated items in place. iii. Relinquishment of Native American human remains and associated items to the descendants for treatment. iv. Other culturally appropriate treatment. g. If the MLD does not make a recommendation within 48 hours, or if the recommendations are not acceptable to the property owner following extended discussions and mediation by the NAHC, the property owner will reinter the remains ad burial items with appropriate dignity on the property, in a location not subject to further subsurface disturbance. The location of reinterment will be protected by at least one of the three following measures: i. Record the location with the NAHC or the SCIC. ii. Utilize an open space or conservation zoning designation or easement. iii. Record a reinternment document with San Diego County. h. If multiple human remains are found, extended discussions will be held with the MLD. If agreement on the treatment of these remains is not reached, they will be reinterred in compliance with PRC 5097.98(e). Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 2-11 2.2.4 Tribal Cultural Resources A. Significant Impact. Implementation of the proposed project could inadvertently impact undiscovered Tribal Cultural Resources (TCRs) during ground disturbing activities such as excavation and grading. If TCRs are encountered, the proposed project may result in potentially significant impacts on TCRs. B. Facts in Support of Finding (1). The project’s potential impact associated with the disturbance of TCRs would be mitigated to a level less than significant with the implementation of Mitigation Measures CR-1 and CR-8. C. Mitigation Measure Mitigation Measure CR-1 (as listed above) Mitigation Measure CR-8 (as listed above) 2.3 Geology and Soils 2.3.1 Seismic Hazards A. Significant Impact. According to the geotechnical evaluation report, there is a potential for liquefaction to occur on the project site due to the relatively low density granular soils occurring within the 100 feet of the soil profile, relatively high elevation of groundwater, and a potential for a design seismic event of a sufficient duration and magnitude to induce straining of soil particles. Therefore, the potential for liquefaction on the project site is considered a significant impact because the materials underlying the site are considered liquefiable. The area is identified as “generally susceptible” to landslides based on slopes perceived to be near their stability limits because of weak materials or slope gradient. Although landslide deposits were not noted within the project site during field work, there is potential for slope instability to occur during site grading. The potential for slope instability on the project site is considered a significant impact. B. Facts in Support of Finding (1). The project’s potential impacts associated with liquefaction and landslides would be mitigated to a level less than significant with the implementation of Mitigation Measure GEO-1. C. Mitigation Measure Mitigation Measure GEO-1 Prior to approval of final engineering and grading plans for the project, the city’s Land Development Engineering Department shall verify that all recommendations contained in the Update of the Geotechnical Update Evaluation for Marja Acres (GeoSoils 2018) have been incorporated into all final engineering and grading plans. The city’s soil engineer and engineering geologist shall review grading plans prior to finalization to verify plan compliance with the recommendations of the report. All future grading and construction of the project site shall comply with the geotechnical recommendations contained in the geotechnical report. The report identifies specific measures for mitigating geotechnical conditions on the project site and addresses grading, slope stability, foundations, concrete slabs on grade, and retaining walls. Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project 2-12 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad 2.3.2 Unstable Geologic Unit or Soil A. Significant Impact. The project site is covered in undocumented fill, surficial deposits of colluvium, and near surface deposits of alluvium. According to the geotechnical evaluation prepared for the proposed project, these are not considered suitable for the support of settlement sensitive improvements or engineered fill in their existing state. Without mitigation, the presence of these materials may have the potential to produce a potentially significant impact as a result of unstable geologic units or soils. B. Facts in Support of Finding (1). The project’s potential impact associated with an unstable geologic unit or soil would be mitigated to a level less than significant with the implementation of Mitigation Measure GEO-1. C. Mitigation Measure Mitigation Measure GEO-1 (as listed above) 2.3.3 Expansive Soils A. Significant Impact. According to the geotechnical evaluation prepared for the proposed project, the on-site soils exhibit Expansion Index values ranging from approximately 17 (very low) to 128 (high). The on-site soils meet the criteria of detrimentally expansive soils, as defined in Section 1803.5.3 of the 2016 CBC. Therefore, the presence of expansive soils on the project site has the potential to create a substantial risk to life or property. B. Facts in Support of Finding (1). The project’s potential impact associated with expansive soils would be mitigated to a level less than significant with the implementation of Mitigation Measure GEO-1. C. Mitigation Measure Mitigation Measure GEO-1 (as listed above) 2.4 Hazards and Hazardous Materials 2.4.1 Release of Hazardous Materials into the Environment A. Significant Impact. Given the age of the existing structures on the project site (constructed circa 1950), asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) and lead based paint (LBP) are likely to be present at the project site. The potential presence of ACMs and LBP on the project site is a significant impact to the public and environment, specifically when existing structures are demolished as part of the proposed project. Therefore, the proposed project has the potential to create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of ACMs and LBP into the environment. B. Facts in Support of Finding (1). The project’s potential impacts associated with release of hazardous materials into the environment would be mitigated to a level less than significant with the implementation of Mitigation Measure HAZ-1. Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 2-13 C. Mitigation Measure Mitigation Measure HAZ-1 Prior to the issuance of a demolition permit, a Hazardous Materials Assessment (surveys) would be performed to determine the presence or absence of ACMs/LBP located in the buildings to be demolished. Suspect materials that would be disturbed by the demolition activities would be sampled and analyzed for asbestos content, or assumed to be asbestos containing. All lead containing materials and asbestos containing materials scheduled for demolition must comply with applicable regulations for demolition methods and dust suppression. Lead containing materials and asbestos containing materials shall be managed in accordance with applicable regulations. The ACM survey would be conducted by a person certified by the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health. The LBP survey would be conducted by a person certified by the California Department of Health Services. Copies of the surveys would be provided to the County of San Diego Department of Environmental Health and San Diego Air Pollution Control District once completed. 2.5 Hydrology and Water Quality 2.5.1 Violation of Water Quality Standards – Construction A. Significant Impact. Implementation of the proposed project includes short-term construction activities including grading and excavation. These activities could result in potential erosion/sedimentation and discharge of construction-related hazardous materials (e.g., fuels, grease, etc.) into local storm drains. B. Facts in Support of Finding (1). The project’s potential impact associated with violation of water quality standards would be mitigated to a level less than significant with the implementation of Mitigation Measure WQ-1. C. Mitigation Measure Mitigation Measure WQ-1 (as listed above) 2.5.2 Violation of Water Quality Standards – Long-term Operations A. Significant Impact. Once constructed, the proposed residential uses would likely generate certain pollutants commonly found in similar developments that could affect water quality downstream from the project site. With the inclusion of these uses, the proposed project has the potential to result in long-term impacts on water quality due to the addition of pollutants typical of urban runoff. B. Facts in Support of Finding (1). The project’s potential impact associated with long-term impacts on water quality would be mitigated to a level less than significant with the implementation of Mitigation Measure WQ-2. C. Mitigation Measure Mitigation Measure WQ-2 Prior to the issuance of grading permits or other approvals for any public or private right-of-way improvements, whichever comes first, the developer shall prepare and submit for review and approval of the Carlsbad City Engineer, SWQMP, grading and improvement plans that demonstrate that pollutants will be controlled through compliance with the City of Carlsbad BMP Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project 2-14 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad Design Manual. Approval of such plans shall be subject to a determination by the Carlsbad City Engineer that the proposed project has implemented an integrated Low Impact Development (LID) approach to meet criteria described in the City of Carlsbad BMP Design Manual. The proposed project has incorporated LID strategies which include site design BMPs, source control BMPs and pollutant control BMPs into the project design to the maximum extent practicable. 2.5.3 Alter Drainage Pattern Resulting in Erosion or Siltation A. Significant Impact. Implementation of the proposed project would include construction activities, such as excavation and trenching for foundations and utilities, soil compaction, cut and fill activities, and grading, all of which would temporarily disturb soils. Disturbed soils are susceptible to high rates of erosion from wind and rain, resulting in sediment transport from the site. Therefore, the proposed project has the potential to result in significant adverse impacts related to erosion and siltation. However, because the proposed project will disturb more than 1 acre of surface area, it will be subject to the Construction General NPDES Permit requirements, including preparation of a SWPPP. B. Facts in Support of Finding (1). The project’s potential impact associated with erosion or siltation would be mitigated to a level less than significant with the implementation of Mitigation Measure WQ-1. C. Mitigation Measure Mitigation Measure WQ-1 (as listed above) 2.6 Land Use and Planning 2.6.1 Plan Consistency A. Significant Impact. The project site is located within the Airport Overflight Notification Area and Review Area 2 of the Airport Influence Area for McClellan-Palomar Airport. The Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (ALUCP) requires that all new residential properties located within the overflight notification area be required to record a notice informing residents of the potential environmental impacts related to the aircraft, and the property is subject to overflight, sight, and sound of aircraft operating from the McClellan Palomar Airport. B. Facts in Support of Finding (1). The project’s potential impact associated with residential properties located in an overflight notification area would be mitigated to a level less than significant with the implementation of Mitigation Measure LU-1. C. Mitigation Measure Mitigation Measure LU-1 New residents within the McClellan-Palomar Airport Overflight Notification Area as defined by the ALUCP shall be notified as part of the real estate disclosure package that the project site is outside the 60 dB(A) CNEL airport noise impact area, but still subject to intermittent single-event noise impacts, sight and sound of aircraft operating from McClellan-Palomar Airport. The state statute dictates that the following statement shall be provided: NOTICE OF AIRPORT IN VICINITY: This property is presently located in the vicinity of an airport, within what is known as an airport influence area. For that reason, the property may be subject to some of the annoyances or inconveniences associated with proximity to airport operations (for Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 2-15 example: noise, vibration, or odors). Individual sensitivities to those annoyances can vary from person to person. You may wish to consider what airport annoyances, if any, are associated with the property before you complete your purchase and determine whether they are acceptable to you. This measure shall be implemented concurrent with the real estate disclosure package. Prior to issuance of building permits, the City of Carlsbad Planning Division shall be responsible for verification of implementation of this measure through the recordation of a Notice. 2.7 Noise 2.7.1 Conflicts with Noise Standards – Construction and Operation A. Significant Impact. At the townhome façade locations, exterior noise levels would generally exceed the applicable city noise standards (65 dBA CNEL for the commercial zone or 60 dBA CNEL for the residential zone) for exterior use areas along the first, second and third rows with an unobstructed exposure to El Camino Real. Because exterior noise levels are anticipated to exceed 60 dBA CNEL, interior noise levels are anticipated to exceed the state and city interior noise standard of 45 dBA CNEL. The proposed project could also result in a significant impact associated with on-site mechanical noise (HVAC equipment). B. Facts in Support of Finding (1). The project’s potential impact associated with construction and operation conflicts with noise standards would be mitigated to a level less than significant with the implementation of Mitigation Measures NOI-1, NOI-2, and NOI-3. C. Mitigation Measure Mitigation Measure NOI-1 Prior to issuance of building permits for any residential buildings with usable outdoor patio or balcony areas with a direct, unobstructed view of El Camino Real, a noise barrier with heights ranging from 5 to 8 feet as shown on Figure 5: Noise Barrier Heights Necessary to Achieve Exterior Noise Standards (Figure 5.11-3 of the EIR) of the Noise Technical Report for the Marja Acres Community Plan (Dudek 2018), shall be incorporated into the building/architectural plans to mitigate noise impacts. The noise barriers may be constructed of a material such as tempered glass, acrylic glass (or similar material), masonry material, or manufactured lumber (or a combination of these), with a surface density of at least 3 pounds per square foot. The noise barriers shall have no openings, gaps, or cracks, and shall be installed prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy. Mitigation Measure NOI-2 Prior to issuance of building permits for the residential units identified on Figure 6: Units Requiring Subsequent Interior Noise Analysis (Figure 5.11-4 of the EIR) of the Noise Technical Report for the Marja Acres Community Plan (Dudek 2018), a site specific noise study will be required to ensure that the outside noise levels are below 60 dBA CNEL and interior noise levels are below 45 dBA CNEL. Any additional measures identified by the acoustical analysis that are necessary to achieve an interior standard of 45 dBA CNEL shall be incorporated into the building/architectural plans. The buildings will require air conditioning and/or mechanical ventilation and possibly sound rated windows to mitigate the interior noise impact. Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project 2-16 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad Mitigation Measure NOI-3 The project applicant shall retain an acoustical specialist to review project construction level plans to ensure that the equipment specifications and plans for HVAC and other outdoor mechanical equipment incorporate measures, such as the specification of quieter equipment or provision of acoustical enclosures, that will not exceed relevant noise standards at nearby noise sensitive land uses (e.g., residential). Prior to issuance of building permits, the acoustical specialist shall certify in writing to the City of Carlsbad that the equipment specifications and plans incorporate measures that will achieve the relevant noise limits. 2.8 Transportation/Circulation 2.8.1 Vehicle Miles Traveled A. Significant Impact. The proposed project’s Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) per capita was determined to be 20.70. The significance threshold of 85% of the City Average VMT per capita is 19.14; therefore, the proposed project would exceed the significance threshold by 7.54%. B. Facts in Support of Finding (1). The project’s potential impact associated with VMT would be mitigated to a level less than significant with the implementation of Mitigation Measures T-1 through T-3. C. Mitigation Measures Mitigation Measure T-1 Prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first market-rate unit, the project applicant shall provide evidence to the City of Carlsbad's Land Development Engineering Division that it will implement measure CAPCOA TRT-3: Provide Ride Sharing Programs. To satisfy this requirement, the project will provide a ride-sharing program, which will be available to all residents, that promotes ride-sharing through a multi-faceted approach, including but not limited to: • Provide a web site or message board for coordinating rides. • Assist residents with matching commutes with ridesharing opportunities. • Promote rideshare/carpool programs. • Promote the use of any carpool platforms or applications utilized by the Citywide Transportation Demand Management program, such as RideAmigos, or equivalent. The project applicant will fund the first three years of this mitigation measure, which amounts to a total of $62,640 ($20,880/year), prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first market-rate unit, and the project's homeowners association will then assess new residents to fund the subsidy program in perpetuity upon issuance of the final certificate of occupancy for the 250th market-rate unit. The project's Transportation Coordinator, appointed by the homeowners' association, shall oversee the ride sharing program and provide updates on the implementation and funding status of this measure to the City of Carlsbad's Land Development Engineering Division consistent with the provisions of Section 2.8 of the Carlsbad TDM Handbook. Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 2-17 Mitigation Measure T-2 Prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first market-rate unit, the project applicant shall provide evidence to the City of Carlsbad's Land Development Engineering Division that it will implement measure CAPCOA TRT-4: Implement Subsidized or Discounted Transit Program. To satisfy this requirement, the project will provide subsidized/discounted monthly public transit passes, which will be available to all residents. The project applicant will fund the first three years of this mitigation measure, which amounts to a total of $136,890 ($45,630/year), prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first market-rate unit, and the project's homeowners association will then assess new residents to fund the subsidy program in perpetuity upon issuance of the final certificate of occupancy for the 250th market-rate unit. The project's Transportation Coordinator, appointed by the homeowners' association, shall oversee the transit subsidy program and provide updates on the implementation and funding status of this measure to the City of Carlsbad's Land Development Engineering Division consistent with the provisions of Section 2.8 of the Carlsbad TDM Handbook. Mitigation Measure T-3 Prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first market-rate unit, the project applicant shall provide evidence to the City of Carlsbad's Land Development Engineering Division that it will implement measure CAPCOA TRT-7: Implement Commute Trip Reduction Marketing. To satisfy this requirement, the project will promote and advertise transportation options available to new and existing residents. Marketing strategies may include, but not be limited to: • Providing a website maintained by the HOA. • Monthly email newsletter blasts. • Promotional materials available in common areas. • Information packets accompanying HOA documents for new residents. Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project 2-18 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad This page is intentionally blank. Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 3-1 3 Effects Found Not to be Significant The City finds, based on the substantial evidence appearing in Chapter 7.6 of the EIR, that the following impacts on the following resources will not be significant: Mineral Resources and Recreation. Based on the analysis contained in the EIR impacts to Aesthetics/Grading (Section 5.1), Agriculture and Forestry Resources (Section 5.2), Air Quality (Section 5.3), Greenhouse Gas Emissions/Climate Change (Section 5.7), Population/Housing (Section 5.12), Public Services (Section 5.13), and Utilities and Service Systems (Section 5.15) were found to be less than significant. Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project 3-2 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad This page is intentionally blank. Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 4-1 4 Findings Regarding Feasible Alternatives Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines §15126.6(a), EIRs must “describe a range of reasonable alternatives to the project, or to the location of the project, which would feasibly attain most of the basic objectives of the project, but would avoid or substantially lessen any of the significant effects of the project, and evaluate the comparative merits of the alternatives.” The EIR considers a reasonable range of alternatives. The alternatives to the project are evaluated in Chapter 6.0 of the EIR in terms of their ability to meet the basic objectives of the project, and eliminate or further reduce its significant environmental effects. Based on these parameters, the following alternatives were considered: (1) No Project/No Development Alternative, (2) Existing General Plan (No Density Bonus/Maximum General Plan Residential Density and Commercial Intensity) Alternative, (3) Reduced Project (No Density Bonus/Growth Management Control Point [GMCP] General Plan Density) Alternative, (4) Previously Proposed Plan Alternative, and (5) Alternative Project Location. 4.1 No Project/No Development Alternative The CEQA Guidelines require analysis of the No Project Alternative. According to Section 15126.6(e), “the specific alternative of ‘no project’ shall also be evaluated along with its impacts. The ‘no project’ analysis shall discuss the existing conditions at the time the NOP is published, at the time environmental analysis is commenced, as well as what would be reasonably expected to occur in the foreseeable future if the proposed project was not approved, based on current plans and consistent with available infrastructure and community services.” The No Project/No Development Alternative assumes that the project site would not be developed with the proposed project, and the project site would remain in its current condition and current uses. The site is currently developed and/or disturbed and includes one existing home with associated structures and various commercial-related uses including smaller retail/commercial businesses, a restaurant, liquor store, pottery sales, flower stand and commercial nursery. This alternative would not meet any of the objectives of the proposed project. Therefore, the No Project/No Development Alternative is not recommended for approval. 4.2 Existing General Plan (No Density Bonus/Maximum General Plan Residential Density and Commercial Intensity) Alternative The Existing General Plan (No Density Bonus/Maximum General Plan Residential Density and Commercial Intensity) Alternative assumes that the project site would be developed pursuant to the existing residential and commercial land use designations, at the density and intensity of the existing Carlsbad General Plan and underlying zoning designations of the project site. The project site consists of two parcels totaling 20.65 gross acres. As shown in Table 6-2 of the EIR, the existing Carlsbad General Plan land use designations of the project site are R-15 Residential (8-15 dwelling units/acre), developed at 15 dwelling units/acre and GC General Commercial. The existing zoning designations of the project site are RD-M and C-2. Under the existing Carlsbad General Plan land use designation of the project site, 180 dwelling units could be constructed at the site based on the maximum density of 15 dwelling units/acre on 12 net Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project 4-2 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad acres for the residential parcel, which would include 36 affordable units. No density bonus would be applied. The 2015 Carlsbad General Plan update allocated an additional 100 dwelling units from the EDUB over the 35 units assumed in the prior General Plan, so 45 dwelling units would need to be withdrawn from the EDUB for this alternative. Additionally, this alternative considers the development potential assumed under the Carlsbad General Plan of the 6.2 acres of commercial uses, which would be approximately 45,000 net square feet of commercial uses with no mixed-use (residential) on the commercial parcel. In summary, this alternative would allow a total of 180 dwelling units (which would include 36 age-restricted affordable units), and 45,000 square foot of specialty retail. Under this alternative, impacts would be similar as compared to the proposed project, although the alternative would generate greater ADT, air emissions, and GHG emissions during operation as compared to the proposed project. This alternative would not avoid or reduce any of the significant project impacts. This alternative would not meet the following project objectives: • Provide low-income and very-low income age-restricted affordable housing to implement the Carlsbad General Plan and statewide housing goals. • Design and implement a walkable mixed-use community that provides a balance of affordable and market rate housing connected to community gathering areas and commercial amenities. • Create a new mixed-use community consistent with the goals and policies of the Carlsbad General Plan and LCP. • Facilitate the establishment and operation of a community garden and vegetable stand to serve residents as well as visitors to the proposed project’s commercial and gathering spaces. • Provide pedestrian-scale, economically viable neighborhood commercial uses that serve proposed project residents and visitors while also paying homage to past uses and structures on the site. • Design a community that encourages social interaction by integrating land use types and mobility within the community • Utilize context sensitive grading techniques and project design features to ensure compatibility with adjacent residential land uses. Therefore, the Existing General Plan (No Density Bonus/Maximum General Plan Residential Density and Commercial Intensity) Alternative is not recommended for approval. 4.3 Reduced Project (No Density Bonus/Growth Management Control Point General Plan Density) Alternative The Reduced Project (No Density Bonus/Growth Management Control Point [GMCP] General Plan Density) assumes that the residentially designated portion of the project site would be developed at a GMCP of 12 dwelling units per acre. The square footage and type of commercial uses would be consistent with the currently proposed project. Under this alternative, approximately 144 attached residential units (townhomes or condominiums) would be developed, on the residential parcel, with approximately 29 units dedicated as affordable units. This alternative would include approximately 25,000 square feet of commercial development on Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 4-3 the commercial parcel, consisting of 15,000 square feet of specialty retail and 10,000 square feet of restaurant). No density bonus would be applied. Under this alternative, impacts would be similar as compared to the proposed project, although it would generate more ADT, air emissions, and GHG emissions. This alternative would not avoid or reduce any of the significant project impacts. This alternative would not meet the following project objectives: • Provide a quality residential community of attached single-family homes attainably priced for young families and professionals. • Provide low-income and very-low income age-restricted affordable housing to implement the Carlsbad General Plan and statewide housing goals. • Design and implement a walkable mixed-use community that provides a balance of affordable and market rate housing connected to community gathering areas and commercial amenities. • Create a new mixed-use community consistent with the goals and policies of the Carlsbad General Plan and LCP. • Provide pedestrian-scale, economically viable neighborhood commercial uses that serve proposed project residents and visitors while also paying homage to past uses and structures on the site. • Utilize context sensitive grading techniques and project design features to ensure compatibility with adjacent residential land uses. Therefore, the Reduced Project (No Density Bonus/Growth Management Control Point General Plan Density) Alternative is not recommended for approval. 4.4 Previously Proposed Plan Alternative Under this alternative, a total of 218 dwelling units plus 15 inclusionary accessory residential dwelling units (ADU) for a total of 233 dwelling units, and up to 16,000 square feet of commercial would be developed as follows: • 32 Single-Family Residences • 151 Townhomes • 35 age-restricted, inclusionary multi-family units, • 15 ADUs(to complete the on-site inclusionary housing requirements) • 8,000 square feet retail uses • 8,000 square feet restaurant This alternative would reduce the acreage and boundary of the existing General Commercial land use are from 6.26 acres to 0.97 acres, which in turn would increase the R-15 residential area from 14.39 acres to 19.86 acres. • This alternative requires an allocation of 83 dwelling units from the city’s Excess Dwelling Unit Bank and the following approvals: • General Plan Land Use Element Amendment to increase R-15 Residential and decrease the GC Commercial acreages Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project 4-4 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad • Zone Change to increase residential density-multiple (RD-M) and decrease General Neighborhood Commercial (C-2) acreages; • Specific Plan; and • LCP Amendment Under this alternative, impacts would be similar as compared to the proposed project, although this alternative would generate more ADT, air emissions, and GHG emissions as compared to the proposed project. This alternative would not avoid or reduce any of the significant project impacts. This alternative would meet most of the basic objectives of the proposed project. However, this alternative would not meet the following project objectives: • Provide low-income and very-low income age-restricted affordable housing to implement the Carlsbad General Plan and statewide housing goals. • Create a new mixed-use community consistent with the goals and policies of the Carlsbad General Plan and LCP. • Utilize context sensitive grading techniques and project design features to ensure compatibility with adjacent residential land uses. Therefore, the Previously Proposed Plan Alternative is not recommended for approval. 4.5 Alternative Project Location This alternative assumes development of the proposed project at an alternative location. Section 15126.6(f)(2) of the CEQA Guidelines addresses alternative locations for a project. The key question and first step in the analysis is whether any of the significant effects of the proposed project would be avoided or substantially lessened by constructing the proposed project in another location. Only locations that would avoid or substantially lessen any of the significant effects of the proposed project need to be considered for inclusion in the EIR. Further, CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(f)(1) states that among the factors that may be taken into account when addressing the feasibility of alternative locations are whether the proposed project proponent can reasonably acquire, control or otherwise have access to the alternative site (or the site is already owned by the proponent). With respect to the proposed project, no significant, unmitigable impacts have been identified. Since implementation of proposed mitigation will mitigate all significant environmental impacts to a less than significant level. Additionally, the proposed project would be consistent with applicable plans, including the Carlsbad General Plan and LCP. Both the city, as the CEQA Lead Agency, and the Applicant have investigated the opportunity to develop a similar project in the general project area. Criteria for a suitable alternative location include a minimum site acreage of approximately 20 acres, accessibility, and availability of infrastructure. The preliminary alternative site analysis determined that the site known as “Sunny Creek” would generally meet the basic criteria in terms of site acreage, available access, and infrastructure. The alternative location is not owned, or otherwise under the control of the applicant. The alternative site location is shown on Figure 6-1 of the EIR. The site comprises approximately 17.6 gross acres, is located adjacent to El Camino Real, and could access other utilities and infrastructure located within the El Camino Real right of way. The site is currently vacant, with the exception of a 20-space recreational vehicle (RV) storage located in the northeast corner of the site. There is currently no Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 4-5 infrastructure on the site or readily available to serve the project site, including the extension of College Boulevard. Implementation of this proposed project will require removal of the recreational vehicles that are currently stored at this location and the asphalt associated with the RV storage facility. Per the recently adopted Carlsbad General Plan, the 17.6 acre site is designated as follows: • 9.6 acres of the site are designated R-15 residential at 12/du/ac, and • 8 acres of the site are designated as L-Local Shopping Center, and • 20 percent inclusionary affordable housing units. Therefore, this site could theoretically be developed with 115 dwelling units at 12 du/ac and approximately 100,000 square feet of local commercial use. However, for analysis purposes it is assumed that the proposed project’s density bonus and mixed-use characteristics would be developed at this location. The acreages of the alternative site differ from the project site, so this alternative yields a different number of dwelling units. Based on gross acreage, the maximum number of dwelling units including a 35 percent density bonus for the residential acreage is 195 units, and for the commercial acreage (based on 25 percent of the acreage) is 81 units, for a total of 276 dwelling units. Of the 276 units, 41 would be developed as age-restricted inclusionary housing units and the remaining 235 units would be townhomes. Per the Carlsbad General Plan land use designation, the alternative location should include a local shopping center, which requires a minimum of 60,000 square feet of leasable area (per Table 2-4 of the Carlsbad General Plan Land Use Element). Under this alternative, impacts would be similar as compared to the proposed project, although it would generate more ADT, air emissions, and GHG emissions. Under this alternative, impacts on biological resources would be greater compared to the proposed project. This alternative would avoid the potential impact associated with hazardous materials (ACMs and LBP) and paleontological resources. This alternative would meet most of the basic objectives of the proposed project. However, this alternative would not meet the following project objectives: • Provide low-income and very-low income age-restricted affordable housing to implement the Carlsbad General Plan and statewide housing goals. • Redevelop an infill site identified in the city’s Housing Element as underutilized with much-needed housing and neighborhood commercial uses. • Create a new mixed-use community consistent with the goals and policies of the Carlsbad General Plan and LCP. • Provide pedestrian-scale, economically viable neighborhood commercial uses that serve proposed project residents and visitors while also paying homage to past uses and structures on the site. Therefore, the Alternative Project Location Alternative is not recommended for approval. Findings of Fact Marja Acres Project 4-6 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad This page is intentionally blank. Final EIR | Marja Acres Project 0.3 Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 0.3-3 Table 0.3-1. Mitigation Measures Mitigation Measure Type Monitor Schedule Compliance Action Verification of Compliance Remarks Initial Date Aesthetics/Grading No mitigation measures required. Agriculture and Forestry Resources No mitigation measures required. Air Quality No mitigation measures required. Biological Resources BIO-1 Nesting Bird and Raptor Avoidance. If initial grading and vegetation removal activities (i.e., earthwork, clearing, and grubbing) must occur during the general bird breeding season for migratory birds and raptors (January 15 and September 15), the project applicant shall retain a qualified biologist to perform a preconstruction survey of potential nesting habitat to confirm the absence of active nests belonging to migratory birds and raptors afforded protection under the MBTA and California FGC. The preconstruction survey shall be performed no more than 7 days prior to the commencement of grading and/or vegetation removal activities. If the qualified biologist determines no active migratory bird or raptor nests occur, the activities shall be allowed to proceed without any further requirements. Should an active nest of any MBTA-covered species occur within or adjacent to the project impact area, a 100-foot buffer (300 feet for raptors) shall be established around the nest, and no construction shall occur within this area until a qualified biologist determines the nest is no longer active or the young have fledged. PC City of Carlsbad Planning Division Prior to construction If construction occurs during the general bird breeding season (January 15 and September 15), a qualified biologist shall conduct a preconstruction survey of potential nesting habitat no more than 7 days prior to the commencement of grading and/or vegetation removal activities to confirm the absence of active nests belonging to migratory birds and raptors afforded protection under the MBTA and California FGC. BIO-2 Habitat Management Plan In-Lieu Mitigation Fee. Prior to recordation of a final map or issuance of a grading permit, whichever occurs first, the project applicant shall pay habitat in-lieu mitigation fees according to the ratios and amounts established by the Habitat Management Plan for Natural Communities in the City of Carlsbad. PC City of Carlsbad Planning Division Prior to recordation of a final map or issuance of a grading permit The project applicant shall pay habitat in-lieu mitigation fees according to the ratios and amounts established by the Habitat Management Plan for Natural Communities in the City of Carlsbad. The following mitigation measure, in addition to Mitigation Measures WQ-1 and WQ-2 (described below under Hydrology/Water Quality) would reduce indirect impacts on biological resources. BIO-3 Construction Fencing. The applicant shall show the locations of temporary construction fencing with the first submittal of grading plans. Temporary construction fencing (with silt barriers) shall be installed at the limits of project impacts (including construction staging areas and access routes) adjacent to sensitive habitat to prevent sensitive habitat impacts and the spread of silt from the construction zone into adjacent habitats. Fencing may be required at the western end of the project to separate project impacts from the off-site sensitive habitat of Kelly Creek. Fencing shall be installed in a manner that does not impact habitats to be avoided. The applicant shall submit to the City of Carlsbad for approval at least 30 days prior to grading permit issuance, the final plans for project construction. These final PC City of Carlsbad Planning Division Prior to issuance of a grading permit At least 30 days prior to grading permit issuance, the project applicant shall submit final plans for project construction showing the locations of temporary construction fencing to the City of Carlsbad for review and approval. EXHIBIT B Final EIR | Marja Acres Project 0.3 Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program 0.3-4 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad Table 0.3-1. Mitigation Measures Mitigation Measure Type Monitor Schedule Compliance Action Verification of Compliance Remarks Initial Date plans shall include photographs that show the fenced limits of impact and areas to be impacted or avoided. Employees shall strictly limit their activities, vehicles, equipment, and construction materials to the fenced project footprint. All equipment maintenance, staging, and dispensing of fuel, oil, coolant, or any other such activities shall occur in designated areas within the fenced project impact limits. These designated areas shall be located in previously compacted and disturbed areas to the maximum extent practicable in such a manner to prevent any runoff from entering adjacent open space and shall be shown on the construction plans. Fueling of equipment shall take place within existing disturbed areas greater than 100 feet from Kelly Creek. Contractor equipment shall be checked for leaks prior to operation and repair, as necessary. “No-fueling zones” shall be designated on construction plans. If work occurs beyond the fenced or demarcated limits of impact, all work shall cease until the problem has been remedied to the city’s satisfaction. Any impacts that occur to environmentally sensitive areas beyond the approved fence shall be mitigated in accordance with ratios specified in the Carlsbad HMP or as otherwise determined by the City of Carlsbad in coordination with the USFWS, USACE, RWQCB, and/or CDFW. Temporary construction fencing shall be removed upon project completion. BIO-4 Regulatory Permitting and Compensatory Mitigation. Impacts on all or portions of the unnamed drainage ditch on the project site shall require the following agency notifications and permits prior to approval of the final map:  The project applicant shall prepare and submit notification to the USACE for unavoidable impacts on non-wetland WOUS. Based on the USACE’s CWA Section 404 NWP program, project activities would be covered under NWP 29 – Residential Developments, contingent upon waiver of the 300 linear feet limit for this permit.  The project applicant shall prepare and submit a CWA Section 401 Request for Water Quality Certification to the RWQCB for unavoidable impacts on non-wetland waters of the state.  The project applicant shall prepare and submit a California FGC Section 1602 Notification of Lake or Streambed Alteration to the CDFW for unavoidable impacts on unvegetated jurisdictional streambed. If required by the USACE, RWQCB, and/or CDFW in regulatory permits, the project applicant shall implement compensatory mitigation at a minimum ratio of 1:1 for the unavoidable loss of jurisdictional waters, which would include one or a combination of the following measures:  The project applicant shall purchase preservation, establishment/ re-establishment, rehabilitation, and/or enhancement credits from a mitigation bank approved by the USACE, RWQCB, and/or CDFW; and/or, PC City of Carlsbad Planning Division Prior to approval of the final map Prior to the approval of the final map, the project applicant shall prepare and submit the following notifications and permits to regulatory agencies:  CWA Section 404 to the USACE  CWA Section 401 Request for Water Quality Certification to the RWQCB  California FGC Section 1602 Notification of Lake or Streambed Alteration to the CDFW If required by the USACE, RWQCB, and/or CDFW in regulatory permits, the project applicant shall implement compensatory mitigation at a minimum ratio of 1:1 for the unavoidable loss of jurisdictional waters. Final EIR | Marja Acres Project 0.3 Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 0.3-5 Table 0.3-1. Mitigation Measures Mitigation Measure Type Monitor Schedule Compliance Action Verification of Compliance Remarks Initial Date  The project applicant shall implement permittee-responsible preservation, establishment, re-establishment, rehabilitation and/or enhancement at an on- or off-site location approved by the USACE, RWQCB, and/or CDFW, including preparation and implementation of a conceptual mitigation plan, habitat mitigation monitoring plan, restoration plan, and/or long-term management plan, unless otherwise specified by the USACE, RWQCB, and/or CDFW. A conservation easement, restrictive covenant, or other protection shall be recorded over the mitigation area, and the area shall be managed in perpetuity in accordance with the long-term management plan, unless otherwise specified by the USACE, RWQCB, and/or CDFW. BIO-5 Project Lighting. Prior to issuance of a grading permit or building permit, whichever is applicable for the particular lighting, the applicant shall submit an exterior lighting plan for City Planner approval. All exterior lighting adjacent to off-site habitat associated with Kelly Creek to the west shall be limited to low pressure sodium or alternative sources in the amber spectrum of the lowest illumination allowed for human safety, selectively placed, shielded, and directed away from habitat to the maximum extent practicable. PC City of Carlsbad Planning Division Prior to issuance of a grading permit or building permit Prior to issuance of a grading permit or building permit, as applicable, the project applicant shall submit an exterior lighting plan to the City of Carlsbad for review and approval. Cultural Resources CR-1 The following shall be implemented to minimize impacts on subsurface cultural resources: a) Prior to the commencement of ground-disturbing activities, the project developer shall contract with a qualified professional archaeologist and enter into a Tribal Cultural Resource Treatment and Monitoring Agreement (also known as a pre-excavation agreement), with the San Luis Rey Band of Mission Indians or another Traditionally and Culturally Affiliated Native American tribe (“TCA Tribe”), for monitoring during ground-disturbing activities. The agreement will contain provisions to address the proper treatment of any tribal cultural resources and/or Luiseño Native American human remains inadvertently discovered during the course of the project. The agreement will outline the roles and powers of the Luiseño Native American monitors and the archaeologist and shall include the provisions below. A copy of said archaeological contract and Tribal Monitoring agreement shall be provided to the City of Carlsbad prior to the issuance of a grading permit. b) A Luiseño Native American monitor shall be present during all ground-disturbing activities. Ground-disturbing activities may include, but are not limited to, archaeological studies, geotechnical investigations, clearing, grubbing, trenching, excavation, preparation for utilities and other infrastructure, and grading activities. c) The landowner shall relinquish ownership of all cultural resources collected during ground disturbing activities and from any previous archaeological studies or excavations on the project site to the contracted TCA Tribe referenced in CR-1(a) for proper treatment and disposition per the Cultural Resources Treatment and Monitoring Agreement for reburial and treated in accordance PC City of Carlsbad Planning Division Prior to construction Prior to the commencement of ground-disturbing activities, the project developer shall contract with a qualified professional archaeologist and enter into a pre-excavation agreement with the San Luis Rey Band of Mission Indians or another TCA Tribe. A copy of the pre-excavation agreement will be provided to the City of Carlsbad Planning Division prior to the issuance of a grading permit. Final EIR | Marja Acres Project 0.3 Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program 0.3-6 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad Table 0.3-1. Mitigation Measures Mitigation Measure Type Monitor Schedule Compliance Action Verification of Compliance Remarks Initial Date with the TCA Tribe’s cultural and spiritual traditions within an appropriate protected location determined in consultation with the TCA Tribe and protected by open space or easement, etc., where the cultural items will not be disturbed in the future, and shall not be curated, unless ordered to do so by a federal agency or a court of competent jurisdiction. When tribal cultural resources are discovered during the project, if the archaeologist collects such resources, a Luiseño Native American monitor must be present during any testing or cataloging of those resources. d) All historical cultural resources uncovered by the archaeologistwill be collected and treated following the guidelines andregulations set forth under 36 CFR 79, federal regulations forcollection of cultural materials.e) The archaeologist and Luiseño Native American monitor shall bepresent at the project’s on-site preconstruction meeting to consultwith grading and excavation contractors concerning excavationschedules and safety issues, as well as consult with the principalarchaeologist concerning the proposed archaeologist techniquesand/or strategies for the project.f) Luiseño Native American monitors and archaeological monitorsshall have joint authority to temporarily divert and/or haltconstruction activities within the immediate vicinity of a find. Ifarchaeological artifact deposits, cultural features or tribal culturalresources are discovered during construction, all earth-movingactivity within 100 feet, or otherwise determined appropriate andnecessary by the archaeologist and Luiseño Native Americanmonitor, around the immediate discovery area must be diverteduntil the Luiseño Native American monitor and the archaeologistcan assess the nature and significance of the find.g) If a significant tribal cultural resource(s) and/or uniquearchaeological resource(s) are discovered duringground-disturbing activities for the project, the San Luis Rey Bandof Mission Indians and the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians shallbe notified and consulted with by the city regarding thesignificance of the resources, and the respectful and dignifiedtreatment of those resources. All sacred sites, significant tribalcultural resources and/or unique archaeological resourcesencountered within the project area shall be avoided andpreserved as the preferred mitigation, if feasible. If however, adata recovery plan is authorized by the city as the Lead Agencyunder CEQA, the contracted TCA Tribe referenced in CR-1(a)shall be notified and consulted regarding the drafting andfinalization of any such recovery plan. For significant artifactdeposits or cultural features that are part of a data recovery plan,an adequate artifact sample to address research avenuespreviously identified for sites in the area will be collected usingprofessional archaeological collection methods. If the QualifiedArchaeologist collects such resources, the Luiseño NativeAmerican monitor must be present during any testing orcataloging of those resources. Moreover, if the QualifiedArchaeologist does not collect the cultural resources that areunearthed during the ground disturbing activities, the LuiseñoNative American monitor, may at their discretion, collect said Final EIR | Marja Acres Project 0.3 Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 0.3-7 Table 0.3-1. Mitigation Measures Mitigation Measure Type Monitor Schedule Compliance Action Verification of Compliance Remarks Initial Date resources and provide them to the contracted TCA Tribe referenced in CR-1(a) for respectful and dignified treatment in accordance with the Tribe’s cultural and spiritual traditions. h) With the written permission of the TCA Tribe referenced in CR-1(a), the developer, and with the approval of the City of Carlsbad, the archaeologist may make 3D scans of agreed-upon unique archaeological resource(s). The archaeologist shall make prints from the scans and shall submit the digital files and the associated prints for curation at the San Diego County Archaeological Society. The archaeologist shall also provide the digital files to the consulting tribes. The developer or designee shall bear the costs associated with the scanning, printing and curation of the digital files and prints. i) If suspected Native American human remains are encountered, California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5 states that no further disturbance shall occur until the San Diego County Medical Examiner has made the necessary findings as to origin. Further, pursuant to California PRC Section 5097.98(b) remains shall be left in place and free from disturbance until a final decision as to the treatment and disposition has been made. Suspected Native American remains shall be examined in the field and kept in a secure location at the site. A Luiseño Native American monitor shall be present during the examination of the remains. If the San Diego County Medical Examiner determines the remains to be Native American, the Medical Examiner must contact the NAHC within 24 hours. The NAHC must then immediately notify the MLD upon receiving notification of the discovery. The MLD shall then make recommendations within 48 hours of being granted access to the site and engage in consultation concerning treatment of remains as provided in PRC 5097.98. If the MLD does not make recommendations within 48 hours, the area of the property must continue to be secured from further disturbance. If no recommendation is given, the property owner or his or her authorized representative shall re-inter the human remains and items associated with Native American burials with appropriate dignity on the property in a location not subject to further subsurface disturbance in accordance with California Public Resources Code Section 5097.98(e). j) In the event that fill material is imported into the project area, the fill shall be clean of tribal cultural resources and documented as such. Commercial sources of fill material are already permitted as appropriate and will be culturally sterile. If fill material is to be utilized and/or exported from areas within the project site, then that fill material shall be analyzed and confirmed by an archaeologist and Luiseño Native American monitor that such fill material does not contain tribal cultural resources. k) No testing, invasive or noninvasive, shall be permitted on any recovered tribal cultural resources without the written permission of the contracted TCA Tribe referenced in CR-1(a). l) Prior to the release of the grading bond, a monitoring report and/or evaluation report, if appropriate, which describes the results, analysis, and conclusions of the monitoring program shall be submitted by the archaeologist, along with the Luiseño Native Final EIR | Marja Acres Project 0.3 Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program 0.3-8 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad Table 0.3-1. Mitigation Measures Mitigation Measure Type Monitor Schedule Compliance Action Verification of Compliance Remarks Initial Date American monitor’s notes and comments, to the City of Carlsbad for approval. Confidential portions of said report per state law shall be subject to confidentiality as an exception to the Public Records Act and will not be available for public distribution. CR-2 Prior to the issuance of a grading permit, the project applicant shall enter into a contract with a qualified Principal Paleontologist to monitor the site, and provide a copy of the contact to the City of Carlsbad. The paleontologist shall be present at the project’s on-site preconstruction meeting to consult with grading and excavation contractors concerning excavation schedules, safety issues and procedures, and shall monitor all grading that includes initial cutting into any area of the project site, as the project site sits on paleontologically-sensitive Santiago Formation deposit. If any paleontological resources are identified during these activities, the paleontologist shall temporarily divert construction until the significance of the resources is ascertained. PC City of Carlsbad Planning Division Prior to the issuance of a grading permit During construction activities Prior to the issuance of a grading permit, evidence of a contract between the project applicant and a qualified Principal Paleontologist to carry out the monitoring shall be provided to the Planning Division. During construction, a qualified paleontologist shall monitor all grading that includes initial cutting into any area of the project site. CR-3 Paleontological monitoring shall occur only for those undisturbed sediments wherein fossil plant or animal remains are found with no associated evidence of human activity or any archaeological context. PC City of Carlsbad Planning Division During construction activities Prior to issuance of a grading permit, the developer and contractor shall both provide a statement agreeing to comply in full, that paleontological monitoring shall occur only for those undisturbed sediments wherein fossil plant or animal remains are found with no associated evidence of human activity or any archaeological context. CR-4 Paleontological monitors shall be equipped to salvage fossils as they are unearthed to avoid construction delays and remove samples of sediments, which are likely to contain the remains of small fossil invertebrates and vertebrates. Monitors shall be empowered to temporarily halt or divert equipment to allow removal of abundant or large specimens. Monitoring may be reduced if the potentially fossiliferous units described above are not present or if the fossiliferous units present are determined by a qualified paleontological monitor to have low potential to contain fossil resources. PC City of Carlsbad Planning Division During construction activities Prior to issuance of a grading permit, the developer and contractor shall both provide a statement agreeing to comply in full, that paleontological monitors shall be equipped to salvage fossils as they are unearthed to avoid construction delays, and to remove samples of sediments which are likely to contain the remains of small fossil invertebrates and vertebrates. CR-5 All recovered specimens shall be prepared to a point of identification and permanent preservation, including washing of sediments to recover small invertebrates and vertebrates. PC City of Carlsbad Planning Division During construction activities Prior to issuance of a grading permit, the developer and contractor shall both provide a statement agreeing to comply in full, that all recovered specimens shall be prepared to a point of identification and permanent preservation, including washing of sediments to recover small invertebrates and vertebrates. CR-6 Specimens shall be identified and curated into an established, accredited, professional museum repository with permanent retrievable storage, such as the San Diego Natural History Museum. The paleontologist shall have a written repository agreement in hand prior to the issuance of a grading permit and initiation of mitigation activities. PC City of Carlsbad Planning Division During construction activities Prior to issuance of a grading permit, the developer and contractor shall both provide a statement agreeing to comply in full, that specimens shall be identified and curated into an established, accredited, professional museum with permanent retrievable storage. The paleontologist shall have a written repository agreement in hand prior to the issuance of a grading permit and initiation of mitigation activities. Final EIR | Marja Acres Project 0.3 Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 0.3-9 Table 0.3-1. Mitigation Measures Mitigation Measure Type Monitor Schedule Compliance Action Verification of Compliance Remarks Initial Date CR-7 Prior to the release of grading bonds, the paleontologist shall complete a report describing the methods and results of the paleontological monitoring and data recovery program, and file a copy of the report at the San Diego Natural History Museum. PC City of Carlsbad Planning and Land Development Engineering Divisions Prior to the release of grading bonds Post paleontological monitoring and prior to release of grading bonds, a qualified paleontologist shall complete a report describing the methods and results of the monitoring and data recovery program. The developer or paleontologist shall submit evidence to the Planning Division to verify that the report has been submitted to the San Diego Natural History Museum. CR-8 As summarized in section (i) of Mitigation Measure CR-1, if human remains or remains that are potentially human are found during any ground disturbance associated with project development activities, including the archaeological test or data recovery programs, the project proponent and its agents must comply with PRC 5097.98 and California Health and Safety Code 7050.5. a) The archaeologist in consultation with the Native American monitor(s) shall ensure reasonable measures are taken so that the discovery location will be protected and secured from further disturbance. b) The archaeological project manager shall notify the County Medical Examiner. c) If the remains are determined by the medical examiner to be of Native American ancestry, the medical examiner will notify the NAHC within 24 hours. d) The NAHC will designate and contact the MLD. e) The property owner will provide the MLD with access to the discovery location, which will have been protected from damage. f) The MLD will make a recommendation for treatment of the remains within 48 hours of being granted access to the property. The descendant’s preferences for treatment may include the following: i) The nondestructive removal and analysis of human remains and items associated with Native American human remains. ii) Preservation of Native American human remains and associated items in place. iii) Relinquishment of Native American human remains and associated items to the descendants for treatment. iv) Other culturally appropriate treatment. g) If the MLD does not make a recommendation within 48 hours, or if the recommendations are not acceptable to the property owner following extended discussions and mediation by the NAHC, the property owner will reinter the remains ad burial items with appropriate dignity on the property, in a location not subject to further subsurface disturbance. The location of reinterment will be protected by at least one of the three following measures: i) Record the location with the NAHC or the SCIC. PC City of Carlsbad Planning Division During construction activities If human remains or remains that are potentially human are found during any ground disturbance associated with project development activities, including the archaeological test or data recovery programs, the project proponent and its agents must comply with PRC 5097.98 and California Health and Safety Code 7050.5. Final EIR | Marja Acres Project 0.3 Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program 0.3-10 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad Table 0.3-1. Mitigation Measures Mitigation Measure Type Monitor Schedule Compliance Action Verification of Compliance Remarks Initial Date ii) Utilize an open space or conservation zoning designation or easement. iii) Record a reinternment document with San Diego County. h) If multiple human remains are found, extended discussions will be held with the MLD. If agreement on the treatment of these remains is not reached, they will be reinterred in compliance with PRC 5097.98(e). Geology/Soils GEO-1 Prior to approval of final engineering and grading plans for the project, the city’s Land Development Engineering Division shall verify that all recommendations contained in the Update of the Geotechnical Update Evaluation for Marja Acres (GeoSoils 2018) have been incorporated into all final engineering and grading plans. The city’s soil engineer and engineering geologist shall review grading plans prior to finalization to verify plan compliance with the recommendations of the report. All future grading and construction of the project site shall comply with the geotechnical recommendations contained in the geotechnical report. The report identifies specific measures for mitigating geotechnical conditions on the project site and addresses grading, slope stability, foundations, concrete slabs-on-grade, and retaining walls. PD & PC City of Carlsbad Land Development Engineering Division Prior to approval of final engineering and grading plans The City Engineer or designee shall review grading plans prior to finalization to verify plan compliance with the recommendations of the report. Greenhouse Gas Emissions/Climate Change No mitigation measures are required. Hazards and Hazardous Materials HAZ-1 Hazardous Materials Assessment. Prior to the issuance of a demolition permit for the existing buildings, a Hazardous Materials Assessment (surveys) would be performed to determine the presence or absence of ACMs/LBP located in the buildings to be demolished. PC City of Carlsbad Planning Division Prior to the issuance of a demolition permit Prior to the issuance of a demolition permit for the existing buildings, a Hazardous Materials Assessment (surveys) shall be performed to determine the presence or absence of ACMs/LBP located in the buildings to be Final EIR | Marja Acres Project 0.3 Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 0.3-11 Table 0.3-1. Mitigation Measures Mitigation Measure Type Monitor Schedule Compliance Action Verification of Compliance Remarks Initial Date Suspect materials that would be disturbed by the demolition activities would be sampled and analyzed for asbestos content, or assumed to be asbestos containing. All lead containing materials and ACMs scheduled for demolition must comply with applicable regulations for demolition methods and dust suppression. Lead containing materials and ACMs shall be managed in accordance with applicable regulations. The ACM survey would be conducted by a person certified by the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health. The LBP survey would be conducted by a person certified by the California Department of Health Services. Copies of the surveys would be provided to the County of San Diego Department of Environmental Health and San Diego Air Pollution Control District once completed. demolished. The project applicant shall submit evidence to the Planning Division verifying that copies of the surveys have been submitted to the County of San Diego Department of Environmental Health and San Diego Air Pollution Control District once completed. Hydrology and Water Quality WQ-1 Prior to issuance of a grading permit for any phase of the development, the applicant shall prepare and submit for review and approval of the Carlsbad City Engineer, a SWPPP to demonstrate that pollutants will be controlled through compliance with the City of Carlsbad Stormwater Management and Discharge Control Ordinance, General Construction Stormwater Permit (Order No. 2012-0006-DWQ, NPDES CAS000002), and the General Municipal Stormwater Permit (R9-2013-0001, as amended by Order Nos. R9-2015-0001 and R9-2015-0100, NPDES No. CAS0109266). The applicant shall be responsible for monitoring and maintaining the BMP erosion control measures identified below on a weekly basis in accordance with the city’s grading and erosion control requirements (Municipal Code Section 15.16. et seq.). The locations of all erosion control devices shall be noted in the SWPPP referenced on the grading plans. BMPs that shall be installed include, but are not limited to, the following:  Silt fence, fiber rolls, or gravel bag berms  Street sweeping and vacuuming  Storm drain inlet protection  Stabilized construction entrance/exit  Hydroseed, soil binders, or straw mulch  Containment of material delivery and storage areas  Stockpile management  Spill prevention and control  Waste management for solid, liquid, hazardous, and sanitary waste-contaminated soil  Concrete waste management PD & PC City of Carlsbad Land Development Engineering Division Prior to issuance of a grading permit for any phase of the development Prior to issuance of a grading permit for any phase of development, the project applicant shall prepare and submit for review and approval of the Carlsbad City Engineer, a SWPPP to control pollutants in compliance with the city’s Stormwater Management and Discharge Control Ordinance, General Construction Stormwater Permit, and the General Municipal Stormwater Permit. The applicant shall be responsible for BMP erosion control measures on a weekly basis. WQ-2 Prior to the issuance of grading permits or other approvals for any public or private right-of-way improvements, whichever comes first, the developer shall prepare and submit for review and approval of the Carlsbad City Engineer, SWQMP, grading and improvement plans that demonstrate that pollutants will be controlled through compliance with the City of Carlsbad BMP Design Manual. Approval of such plans shall be subject to a determination by the Carlsbad City Engineer that PD & PC City of Carlsbad Land Development Engineering Division Prior to issuance of a grading permit or other approvals for any public or private Prior to issuance of a grading permit or other approvals for any public or private right-of-way improvements, the project applicant shall prepare and submit for review and approval of the Carlsbad City Engineer, SWQMP, grading and improvement plans that demonstrate that Final EIR | Marja Acres Project 0.3 Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program 0.3-12 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad Table 0.3-1. Mitigation Measures Mitigation Measure Type Monitor Schedule Compliance Action Verification of Compliance Remarks Initial Date the proposed project has implemented an integrated LID approach to meet criteria described in the City of Carlsbad BMP Design Manual. The proposed project has incorporated LID strategies which include site design BMPs, source control BMPs and pollutant control BMPs into the project design to the maximum extent practicable. right-of-way improvements pollutants will be controlled through compliance with the City of Carlsbad BMP Design Manual. Land Use Planning LU-1 New residents within the McClellan-Palomar Airport Overflight Notification Area as defined by the ALUCP shall be notified as part of the real estate disclosure package that the project site is outside the 60 dB(A) CNEL airport noise impact area, but still subject to intermittent single-event noise impacts, sight, and sound of aircraft operating from McClellan-Palomar Airport. The state statute dictates that the following statement shall be provided: NOTICE OF AIRPORT IN VICINITY: This property is presently located in the vicinity of an airport, within what is known as an airport influence area. For that reason, the property may be subject to some of the annoyances or inconveniences associated with proximity to airport operations (for example: noise, vibration, or odors). Individual sensitivities to those annoyances can vary from person to person. You may wish to consider what airport annoyances, if any, are associated with the property before you complete your purchase and determine whether they are acceptable to you. This measure shall be implemented concurrent with the real estate disclosure package. Prior to issuance of building permits, the City of Carlsbad Planning Division shall be responsible for verification of implementation of this measure through the recordation of a Notice. PD & PC City of Carlsbad Planning Division Prior to issuance of a building permit Prior to issuance of a building permit, the City of Carlsbad Planning Division shall verify through the recordation of a Notice and verify inclusion within the project CC&Rs that new residents within the McClellan-Palomar Airport Overflight Notification Area as defined by the ALUCP are notified as part of the real estate disclosure package that the project is outside the 60 dB(A) CNEL airport noise impact area, but still subject to intermittent single-event noise impacts, sight and sound of aircraft operating from McClellan-Palomar Airport. Noise NOI-1 Prior to issuance of building permits for any residential buildings with usable outdoor patio or balcony areas with a direct, unobstructed view of El Camino Real, a noise barrier with heights ranging from 5 to 8 feet as shown on Figure 5: Noise Barrier Heights Necessary to Achieve Exterior Noise Standards Figure 5.11-3 of this EIR) of the Noise Technical Report for the Marja Acres Community Plan (Dudek 2018), shall be incorporated into the building/architectural plans to mitigate noise impacts. The noise barriers may be constructed of a material such as tempered glass, acrylic glass (or similar material), masonry material, or manufactured lumber (or a combination of these), with a surface density of at least 3 pounds per square foot. The noise barriers shall have no openings, gaps, or cracks, and shall be installed prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy. PD&PC City of Carlsbad Planning Division and Building Division Prior to issuance of building permits Prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy Prior to issuance of building permits for any residential buildings with usable outdoor patio or balcony areas with a direct, unobstructed view of El Camino Real, a noise barrier with heights ranging from 5 to 8 feet as shown on Figure 5: Noise Barrier Heights Necessary to Achieve Exterior Noise Standards of the Noise Technical Report for the Marja Acres Community Plan (Dudek 2018) shall be incorporated into the building/architectural plans to mitigate noise impacts. The noise barriers shall be installed prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy. NOI-2 Prior to issuance of building permits for the residential units identified on Figure 6: Units Requiring Subsequent Interior Noise Analysis (Figure 5.11-4 of this EIR) of the Noise Technical Report for the Marja Acres Community Plan (Dudek 2018), a site specific noise study will be required to ensure that the outside noise levels are below 60 dBA CNEL and interior noise levels are below 45 dBA CNEL. Any additional measures identified by the acoustical analysis that are necessary to achieve an interior standard of 45 dBA CNEL shall be incorporated into the building/architectural plans. The buildings will PD City of Carlsbad Planning Division and Building Division Prior to issuance of building permits Prior to issuance of building permits for the residential units identified on Figure 6: Units Requiring Subsequent Interior Noise Analysis of the Noise Technical Report for the Marja Acres Community Plan (Dudek 2018), a site specific noise study shall be completed by the project applicant and approved by the Building Division. Any additional measures identified by the acoustical analysis that are necessary to achieve an interior Final EIR | Marja Acres Project 0.3 Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 0.3-13 Table 0.3-1. Mitigation Measures Mitigation Measure Type Monitor Schedule Compliance Action Verification of Compliance Remarks Initial Date require air-conditioning and/or mechanical ventilation and possibly sound-rated windows to mitigate the interior noise impact. standard of 45 dBA CNEL shall be incorporated into the building/architectural plans to mitigate noise impacts. NOI-3 The project applicant shall retain an acoustical specialist to review project construction-level plans to ensure that the equipment specifications and plans for HVAC and other outdoor mechanical equipment incorporate measures, such as the specification of quieter equipment or provision of acoustical enclosures, that will not exceed relevant noise standards at nearby noise-sensitive land uses (e.g., residential). Prior to issuance of building permits, the acoustical specialist shall certify in writing to the City of Carlsbad that the equipment specifications and plans incorporate measures that will achieve the relevant noise limits. PD City of Carlsbad Planning Division and Building Division Prior to issuance of building permits Prior to issuance of building permits, an acoustical specialist shall review project construction-level plans to ensure that the equipment specifications and plans for HVAC and other outdoor mechanical equipment incorporate measures that will not exceed relevant noise standards at nearby noise-sensitive land uses. The acoustical specialist shall certify in writing to the City of Carlsbad that the equipment specifications and plans incorporate measures that will achieve the relevant noise limits. Population/Housing No mitigation measures are required. Public Services No mitigation measures are required. Final EIR | Marja Acres Project 0.3 Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program 0.3-14 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad Table 0.3-1. Mitigation Measures Mitigation Measure Type Monitor Schedule Compliance Action Verification of Compliance Remarks Initial Date Transportation/Circulation T-1 Prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first market-rate unit, the project applicant shall provide evidence to the City of Carlsbad's Land Development Engineering Division that it will implement measure CAPCOA TRT-3: Provide Ride Sharing Programs. To satisfy this requirement, the project will provide a ride-sharing program, which will be available to all residents, that promotes ride-sharing through a multi-faceted approach, including but not limited to:  Provide a web site or message board for coordinating rides.  Assist residents with matching commutes with ridesharing opportunities.  Promote rideshare/carpool programs.  Promote the use of any carpool platforms or applications utilized by the Citywide Transportation Demand Management program, such as RideAmigos, or equivalent. The project applicant will fund the first three years of this mitigation measure, which amounts to a total of $62,640 ($20,880/year), prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first market-rate unit, and the project's homeowners association will then assess new residents to fund the subsidy program in perpetuity upon issuance of the final certificate of occupancy for the 250th market-rate unit. The project's Transportation Coordinator, appointed by the homeowners' association, shall oversee the ride sharing program and provide updates on the implementation and funding status of this measure to the City of Carlsbad's Land Development Engineering Division consistent with the provisions of Section 2.8 of the Carlsbad TDM Handbook. PD&OM City of Carlsbad Land Development Engineering Division Prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy Prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first market-rate unit, the project applicant shall provide evidence to the City of Carlsbad's Land Development Engineering Division that it has implemented measure CAPCOA TRT-3: Provide Ride Sharing Programs. T-2 Prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first market-rate unit, the project applicant shall provide evidence to the City of Carlsbad's Land Development Engineering Division that it will implement measure CAPCOA TRT-4: Implement Subsidized or Discounted Transit Program. To satisfy this requirement, the project will provide subsidized/discounted monthly public transit passes, which will be available to all residents. The project applicant will fund the first three years of this mitigation measure, which amounts to a total of $136,890 ($45,630/year), prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first market-rate unit, and the project's homeowners association will then assess new residents to fund the subsidy program in perpetuity upon issuance of the final certificate of occupancy for the 250th market-rate unit. The project's Transportation Coordinator, appointed by the homeowners' association, shall oversee the transit subsidy program and provide updates on the implementation and funding status of this measure to the City of Carlsbad's Land Development Engineering Division consistent with the provisions of Section 2.8 of the Carlsbad TDM Handbook. PD&OM City of Carlsbad Land Development Engineering Division Prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy Prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first market-rate unit, the project applicant shall provide evidence to the City of Carlsbad's Land Development Engineering Division that it will implement measure CAPCOA TRT-4: Implement Subsidized or Discounted Transit Program. Final EIR | Marja Acres Project 0.3 Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program City of Carlsbad August 2020 | 0.3-15 Table 0.3-1. Mitigation Measures Mitigation Measure Type Monitor Schedule Compliance Action Verification of Compliance Remarks Initial Date T-3 Prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first market-rate unit, the project applicant shall provide evidence to the City of Carlsbad's Land Development Engineering Division that it will implement measure CAPCOA TRT-7: Implement Commute Trip Reduction Marketing. To satisfy this requirement, the project will promote and advertise transportation options available to new and existing residents. Marketing strategies may include, but not be limited to:  Providing a website maintained by the HOA.  Monthly email newsletter blasts.  Promotional materials available in common areas.  Information packets accompanying HOA documents for new residents. PD&OM City of Carlsbad Land Development Engineering Division Prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy Prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first market-rate unit, the project applicant shall provide evidence to the City of Carlsbad's Land Development Engineering Division of how it is implementing measure CAPCOA TRT-7: Implement Commute Trip Reduction Marketing. Utilities and Services Systems No mitigation measures are required. Final EIR | Marja Acres Project 0.3 Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program 0.3-16 | August 2020 City of Carlsbad This page is intentionally blank.