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HomeMy WebLinkAbout06/29/1993CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA
Mayor — Gary G. Miller
Mayor Pro Tem —Phyllis E. Papen
Councilman — John A. Forbing
Councilman — Gary H. Werner
Councilman — Dexter D. MacBride
City Council Chambers
are located at:
South CoastAir QWIty Management D''strictAuditoaium
21865 East Copley Drives
MEETING DATE: JUNE 29, 1993
General Plan
Public Hearing
Terrence L Belanger
City Manager
Andrew V. Arczynski
City Attorney
MEETING TIME: 7:00 p.m. Lynda Burgess
City Clerk
THIS MEETING IS BEING BROADCAST LIVE BY JONES INTERCABLE
FOR AIRING
C�12, SIOBR�TNING IN ELEVISED THE ROOM,
you ARE GIVING YE�ISNTO
9:6 -7
1. CALL TO ORDER: %}e�o P.M.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
ROLL CALL:
Councilmen MacBfide,Forb�i� Werner,
Mayor Pro Tem P.apen, Mayor Miller-_,_,, C,_S
2. PUBLIC HEARING:
2.1 ADOPTION OF THE GENERAL PLAN: The General Plan is a
statement of goals, policies and implementing programs to
guide the long-range physical development of the City.
The Plan is required by State Law and determines the
size, form and character of the City over the next twenty
years. It is the most significant tool utilized by the
community to ensure a balanced, comfortable environment
in which to live and work. It represents the community's
view of its future and serves ad the blueprint" to
define the long term character of the City. In March of
1993 the City Council authorized the retention of a
consultant team to further develop the Draft General
Plan. Five community workshops have been conducted with
residents to identify key planning issues and discuss
potential General Plan policy options. The results have
been summarized and forwarded to the Council for
consideration. Five Public Hearings have been conducted
to consider specific revisions to the Draft General Plan
(dated July 14, 1992; to receive additional public input
on the entire Draft General Plan.
The purpose of the June 29, 1993 Public Hearing is to further
review the Draft 1993 General Plan.
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the City Council
open the Public Hearing, receive a presentation from the
General Plan consultant team, receive public testimony,
forward comments to City staff and continue the Public Hearing
to July 6, 1993.
3. ANNOUNCEMENTS: � f
4. ADJOURNMENT:
1W.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
AGENDA REPORT
AGENDA NO. 02
TO: Terrence L. Belanger, City Manager
MEETING DATE: June 29, 1993 REPORT DATE: June 25, 1993
FROM: James De Stefano, Community Development Director
TITLE: Adoption of the 1993 General Plan
SUMMARY: The General Plan is a statement of goals, policies and implementing programs to guide the long-
range physical development of the City. The Plan is required by State Law and determines the size, form and
character of the City over the next twenty years. It is the most significant tool utilized by the community to ensure
a balanced, comfortable environment in which to live and work. It represents the community's view of its future and
serves ad the "blueprint" to define the long term character of the City. In March of 1993 the City Council authorized
the retention of a consultant team to further develop the Draft General Plan. Five community workshops have been
conducted with residents to identify key planning issues and discuss potential General Plan policy options. The results
have been summarized and forwarded to the Council for consideration. Five Public Hearings have been conducted
to consider specific revisions to the Draft General Plan (dated July 14, 1992) to receive additional public input on the
entire Draft General Plan.
The purpose of the June 29, 1993 Public Hearing is to further review the Draft 1993 General Plan.
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council open the Public Hearing, receive a presentation from
.e General Plan consultant team, receive public testimony, forward comments to City staff and continue the Public
Nearing to July 6, 1993.
EXTERNAL DISTRIBUTION: Library
SUBMITTAL CHECKLIST:
1.
Has the resolution, ordinance or agreement been reviewed
Yes X No
by the City Attorney?
— —
2.
Does the report require a majority or 4/5 vote?
MAJORITY
3.
Has environmental impact been assessed?
Yes X No
4.
Has the report been reviewed by a Commission?
_ Yes X No
Which Commission?
— —
5.
Are other departments affected by the report?
X Yes No
Report discussed with the following affected departments:
_
REVIEWED
b."
Terrence L. Bel
City Manager
J es VDeS&tefanoi
Community Developm nt Director
CITY COUNCIL REPORT
AGENDA NO.
MEETING DATE: June 29, 1993
TO: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: Terrence L. Belanger, City Manager
SUBJECT: Adoption of the General Plan
ISSUE STATEMENT: The General Plan is a statement of goals, policies and
implementing programs to guide the long-range physical development of the
City. The Plan is required by State Law and determines the size, form and
character of the City over the next twenty years. It is the most significant
tool utilized by the community to ensure a balanced, comfortable environment
in which to live and work. It represents the community's view of its future
and serves ad the "blueprint" to define the long term character of the City.
In March of 1993 the City Council authorized the retention of a consultant
team to further develop the Draft General Plan. Five community workshops
have been conducted with residents to identify key planning issues and
discuss potential General Plan policy options. The results have been
summarized and forwarded to the Council for consideration. Five Public
Hearings have been conducted to consider specific revisions to the Draft
General Plan (dated July 14, 1992) to receive additional public input on the
entire Draft General Plan.
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council open the public
hearing, receive a presentation from the General Plan consultant team,
receive public testimony, forward comments to City Staff, and continue the
public hearing to July 6, 1993.
BACKGROUND: On May 19, 1993, City Council began the public hearing
adoption process for the General Plan. The Council received testimony on
proposed revisions related to land use and open space policy. The public
hearing was continued to May 26th in order to further discuss the Land Use
Element, Open Space related policy and present the Circulation Element. The
May 26, 1993, continued public hearing accommodated further public testimony
and Council discussion. The hearing was continued to June 2, 1993, for a
review of the Circulation Element. The June 9, 1993, public hearing provided
an additional opportunity for public review and comment on the entire General
Plan.
On June 16, 1993, the City Council received a presentation on the 1993
General Plan, specifically, the substantial areas of change which reflect a
significant difference to the 1992 General Plan.
1
In accordance with Government Code Section 65356 the City Council has
referred the proposed 1993 General Plan to the Planning Commission for review
and recommendation of the proposed substantial modifications contained within
the document. The Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing on June
28, 1993 and their report will be forwarded to the City Council on June 29,
1993.
The purpose of the June 29, 1993 Public Hearing is to further review the
Draft 1993 General Plan.
Several changes to the 1993 General Plan were suggested at the June 16, 1993
public hearing. Addendum pages are attached which reflect proposed
revisions.
PUBLIC HEARING NOTIFICATION:
Public hearing notices were previously published within the San Gabriel
Valley Tribune and Inland Valley Daily Bulletin in accordance with State Law.
In addition, public notices were published within the Diamond Bar Highlander.
Notice of the public hearings have been mailed to several hundred names on
our General Plan mailing list. All General Plan documents have been
available for review at City Hall and the County Library.
PREPARED BY:
James DeStefano
Community Development Director
attachments:
1. Addendum
2. Correspondence received from Gary Neely dated June 18, 1993
2
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
TO: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Counci
ll
FROM: James DeStefano, Community Development D
SUBJECT: Comments on 1993 General Plan from Gary Neely
DATE: June 24, 1993
Attached for your review is a copy of suggested changes to the 1993
General Plan presented by Mr. Gary Neely within his correspondence
received June 24, 1993.
JDS\mco
attachment
1
Mat Reiolutioo No. 93-23
AGENDA
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR FLAMM COMUMON
SOUTH COAST AIIt QUALITy
MANAGEMENT DISTRICT
AUDITO
21865 E. COPE DQE
DIAMOND BAR, CA 91765
June 28, 1993
CALL TO 0RDJM s 7:OQ pm
PL=aB O! AUMOlANCs
ROLL Chi COMMISSIONERS; Chairman David Meyer V
Lydia Plunk, Bruce Flamenbaum ice Chairwoman
Michael Li , Jack Grothe, and
XRTTEM FROM TSE AVDI=CE/PnLIC CojalsMTat
This is the time and place for
members of the Planning Commission on an
the general public to address the
jurisdiction, allowing the Y item that is within their
Public hearing and non the Public an is to s
+ t'eSordiner Q ie tuns peak On non -
Thar.
C088B7 CALM"; The follows
ng are considered routine and are iters listed on the consent calendar
calendar 'tens may be removed from stdha Ya4esingle motion. Consent
Commission mUy;
Y request of the
1. Minutes of June 14
1993
OLD BQsIimas; None
NW Buslimes t None
1
POsue Manns:
2. Aefesral of the 1993 General Plan to the Planning Commission
for recommendation.
The City Council has referred the Draft 1993 General Plan to
the Commission for review and recommendation. Government Code
Section 65356 requires that before the legislative body makes
any substantial modification to the General Plan, as
recommended by the commission, that the modification be
referred to the Commission for its recommendation. The City
Council has further directed that the Commission provide its
report to the Council no later than June 29, 1993.
As required by State Law, the proposed 1993 General Plan is a
statement of goals, policies and programs that guide the long-
range physical development of the City. The Plan determines
the size, form and character of the city and its population in
both the near and distant future and sets forth the
community's priorities on a myriad of
use, transportation, issues including land
environmental issues. housing, economic, social and
Recommendation: Review the substantial modifications proposed
within the Draft 1993 General Plan and recommend City Council
adoption.
3. Planned sign Program, No. 93-2
The application requests approval of a planned sign program
for wall signs and freestanding monument signs for the
commercial center, Colima Plaza, located on the northwest
corner of Lemon Avenue and Golden Springs Drive. The center
is located in Zone C -2 -DP (Neighborhood Commercial) and will
not change as a part of this application.
Applicants: Xirkelie Business Parks, Ltd. V, 13060 Glenoaks
Blvd. 0107, Sylmar, CA 91342
Envirommental Determination: Pursuant to the provisions of the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the City has
detsrained that this project is a Class i Categorical
Euemption per section 15301.
Recommendation: Staff recommends that the Planning Commission
approve the Planned Sign Program, Findings of Fact, and
conditions as listed within the attached resolution.
2
6• Development Review No. 93-1 i Conditional Use permit No. 93-1.
A request to construct a 9,200 square foot two-story structure
to accomodate a restaurant with bar/lounge and live
entertainment. The undeveloped project site is 1.33 acres
within The Gateway Corporate Center located at 21671 E.
Gateway Center Drive. Additionally, pursuant to the Hillside
Management Ordinance No. 7 (1992), a Conditional Use Permit is
required for proposed grading activities on the subject site.
Applicant: Dr. Akbar Omar, 2216 E. Merced, West Covina, CA
Environmental Determination: Pursuant to the provisions of
the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the City has
determined that this project requires a Mitigated Negative
Declaration.
Recommendation: Continue project to July 12, 1993.
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS:
A111 UNC 0 21 9 a 3
ADJOURMUM: July 12, 1993
3
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
TO: Chairman and Planning Commissioners
FROM: James DeStefano, Community Development Director
SUBJECT: Referral of 1993 General Plan to the Planning
Commission for Recommendation
DATE: June 24, 1993
INTRODUCTION/PURPOSE
As you are aware, a residents, group successfully petitioned the
City Council, through the referendum process, to reconsider
adoption of the 1992 General Plan. As a result, the City Council
in March of 1993 rescinded its prior resolution (Resolution No. 92-
44) which adopted the 1992 General Plan. The Council directed the
preparation of a workshop and public hearing process to revise the
1992 General Plan (dated July 14, 1992) and adopt the 1993 General
Plan.
The City Council has referred the proposed 1993 General Plan to the
Commission for review and recommendation. Government Code Section
65356 requires that before the legislative body makes any
substantial modification to the General Plan, as recommended by the
commission, that the modification be referred to the Commission for
its recommendation. The City Council has further directed that the
Commission provide its report to the Council no later than June 29,
1993.
WORKSHOP/PUBLIC HEARING PROCESS
Five Community Workshops were held in April and May to identify
planning issues and discuss potential General Plan policy options.
In order for the public workshops to be as productive as
possible,
an extensive outreach program was initiated which included display
ads published in the newspapers, posters displayed throughout the
community, notices mailed to all persons on our mailing list, and
public service announcements broadcast over various
television stations. cable
The community workshops identified the amount and type of future
residential development, open space preservation, reduction of
traffic congestion, and a transportation corridor through Tonner
Canyon as the key planning issues.
1
As a result of the workshop process, public hearings have been
utilized to suggest further revision to the General Plan. Five
hearings have concluded as of this date with additional hearings
scheduled to further discuss the General Plan.
The Council has reviewed workshop summary comments, individual
written submittals and received public hearing participation in the
revision of the Draft Plan. Throughout the course of the public
hearings the council has received, recorded and directed the City
Staff to consider a variety of comments related to landuse,
housing, open space, conservation, circulation, noise and safety
policy. Suggested text and mapping revisions as a result of the
public comments, are contained within the June 16, 1993, Draft
General Plan.
BACKGROUND: Upon Incorporation one of the many responsibilities
a new City has is to develop a General Plan. Required by State
the General Plan is a statement of goals, policies and
Law, elopment of the
programs that guide the long range physical dev
City. The Plan determines the size, form and character of the City
and its population in both the near and distant future. It sets
forth the community's priorities on a myriad of issues, including
land use, transportation, housing, open space, conservation, noise
and safety.
State Law requires that each City prepare and adopt a
"comprehensive, long term General Plan for the physical
development" of the community. This General Plan must cover all
incorporated territory and should go beyond the City limits to
include "any land outside its boundaries which bears relation to
its planning"- Government Code 65300. The General Plan before the
Council incorporates the seven mandatory elements State Law
requires within a General Plan. Each element addresses a
particular area of planning.
The development of the General Plan began in late 1989 with the
creation of the City Council appointed General Plan Advisory
Committee (GPAC). GPAC shared its proposal with a e Planning
Commission in early 1992. Additional input was p
the
Planning Commission by the Parks and Recreation Commission, and the
Traffic and Transportation Commission. The Planning Commission
held several public hearings and forwarded a General Plan for City
Council consideration. The Council, at the conclusion of a lengthy
public hearing process, adopted,a General Plan on July 14, 1992.
DISCUSSION: The 1993 Draft General Plan incorporates the seven
state mandated elements into six major sections. The 1993 Draft
General Plan utilized as its foundation the previous Draft Plan
dated July 14, 1992. Changes from the 1992 plan are identified by
deletions in strikeeat- and additions shown in
�A
The Plan begins with a statement of vision. The vision statement
incorporates major components including retention of existing
natural open space, mitigation of regional traffic impacts on local
streets, and promotion of viable commercial activity. The
discussion on the community participation process recognizes the
qualification of the August, 1992, referendum petition, the
decision to rescind the General Plan in March of 1993, and the
initiation of a broad based community participation program
utilized to formulate the 1993 Draft General Plan.
Several significant changes are identified within the Draft General
Plan responding to statements within the referendum petition,
community workshop, and public hearing comments related to the
amount and type of future residential development, open space
preservation, traffic congestion on local roadways, and the Tonner
Canyon transportation corridor. The 1993 Draft General Plan
outlines specific changes made which reduce overall residential
development density significantly by lowering the majority of the
community's residential land use classifications from a theoretical
6 dwelling units per acre to reflect the current development
pattern of approximately 3 dwelling units per acre.
The Tres Hermanos area land use designation has been changed to
reflect the current considerations for the property which include
a specific location for the Diamond Ranch High School and
recognition of the existing agricultural land usage.
Expansion of previous "open land" language for clarification and
specificity, has emphasized the need for confirmation of previous
deed restrictions and has provided a new open space definition and
preservation program, and further recognition and delineation of
the Significant Ecological Area located within the central portion
of the sphere of influence.
PUBLIC HEARING NOTIFICATION:
Public hearing notices were previously published within the San
Gabriel Valley Tribune and Inland Valley Daily Bulletin in
accordance with State Law. Notice of the public hearings have been
mailed to several hundred names on our General Plan mailing list.
All General Plan documents have been available for review at City
Hall and the County Library.
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the Planning Commission open
the public hearing, receive a presentation from the
staff/consultant team, receive public testimony and forward a
report to the City Council recommending adoption of the subtantial
modifications contained within the Draft 1993 General Plan.
attachments: 1. Draft General Plan dated 6/16/93 (previously
transmitted)
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
TO: Chairman and Planning Commissioners
FROM: James DeStefano, Community Development Di
SUBJECT: Comments on 1993 General Plan from Gary Neely,
DATE: June 24, 1993
Attached for your review is a copy of suggested changes to the 1993
General Plan presented by Mr. Gary Neely within his correspondence
received June 24, 1993.
JDS\mco
attachment
1
n
June 18, 1993
` :TY
Mr. Terry Belanger
City Manager
City of Diamond Bar
21660 E. Copley Drive, Suite 100
Diamond Bar, California 91765
RE: Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated June 16, 1993
Also see: My letter, including attachment, to you dated March 18, 1993
Also see: My written suggested changes to the Land Use, Housing, Resource Management,
and Public Services and Facilities Elements dated May 4, 1993
Mr. Belanger,
I
N
tv
R
O
N
This is to formally update my suggested changes to the Diamond Bar General Plan now that the
first Draft Revision has been published and the first Public Hearing (6/16/93) has concluded. All my
comments will relate to the document entitled City of Diamond Bar Draft General Plan dated June 16, 1993.
I will organize my comments in such a manner as to work from front to back of that document.
Under ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS (no page number): Mrs. Lavinia Rowland attended the Public
Workshop referred to as "2A" but is not listed as a participant.
IN THE INTRODUCTION:
MOTE: If the Land Use Element pages are going to be number 1 -(whatever), shouldn't these
pages in this section be numbered something other than I -(whatever)?
Under A. f7SION STATEMENT (page I-1 & 2): In my opinion, it is a blurry vision indeed that
can't see the potential economic, recreational, traffic or environmental impacts on our city of 120,000 acre
feet of water setting on our eastern border.... even if this long -proposed body of water is 200 feet on the
Chino Hills side of the County line. Maybe to a lesser degree, but nonetheless valid; I can not conceive of
a vision statement that neglects to mention a commitment to pursuing a goal of providing the highest quality
and quantity of educational opportunities for its citizens. I suggest the following verbiage describing
conditions that, admittedly do not yet exist (see second paragraph on page I-1), be inserted under the third
paragraph which begins: "What are the major components of the Diamond Bar Ksion?"
Although the majority of the Tres Hernzanos Water ResourceProject,'which includes both the N2'acre
reclaimed water lake and the 1200 acre potable water lake, actually is located in neighboring Chino Hills, the
potential impact this project would have on the City in terms of economic development and new recreational
opportunities can not be understated The reclaimed water lake, wholly located within the City's borders, will
provide a source of water that would directly effect the viability of other potential developments in the City. The
reduction of fire hazard in the area as a result of this project would be dramatic. The potential increase of
property values in the City as a direct result of the two lakes' construction is profound
The economic development potential associated with becoming a U.C. host city is enormous. The
positive effect this proposed University would have on the quality of education at the K-12 schools throughout
the City is beyond estimation. Should this proposed project become a reality, many of the other issues facing the
City and detailed in this document (e.g., stabilizing municipal revenues, expediting the maturation of the Corporate
Center, eliminating the strip center vacancies, improving recreational facilities and housing needs, etc.) can be
solved Inasmuch as Diamond Bar is centrally located between the three existing University of California
campuses in the Los Angeles Basin and is in the unique position of having undeveloped property available
Mr. Terry Belanger
RE: Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated 6/16/93
June 18, 1993
within its boundaries of sufficient sue (Tres Hermanos Ranch) to house such a campus, a long term effort to
secure the next Southern California U.C. campus has been under discussion for some time. Although the State's
present economic situation has currently forced the U.C. system to put its plans to build new campuses on hold,
this delay can be seen as beneficial because it provides the opportunity for the City to better coordinate long range
plans for the property surrounding the proposed campus. Additionally, the mixed use centerproposal alone, meant
to act as a "city within a city" and which would house and service the needs of the estimated 7000 student
population and their visitors, could provide a revenue source for the City rivaling any mall in the county. This
is a revenue source the scale of which the City could not get otherwise.
You'll note that I had earlier suggested these paragraphs be included in numerous places throughout
the different elements of the General Plan. That approach seemed somewhat repetitive, if not redundant,
even to me. Consolidating the above statements into this newly added vision statement seems more
appropriate as long as my suggested strategies relating to these paragraphs can be added as requested.
Under F. CITY HISTORY (page I-5), second paragraph: The name of the original ranch was
Raiicho Los Nogales, not Rancho de Los Nogales. Rancho de Los Nogales may be grammatically correct,
but that was not the ranch's name.
Under G. MAJOR ISSUES, L Land Use (page I-5 & 6): The very first goal mentioned in the 1983
Diamond Bar General Plan states, "1. Maintain the rural setting of the community through the retention and
maintenance of extensive amounts of natural open space and hillside vegetation." Ten years later, the second
sentence in the second paragraph of this section reads, "Many choices are needed as to if or how the City
wants its remaining open land to develop, especially land that may have been designed or restricted as open space
by previous development approvals through the County". The obvious change of attitude and commitment to
preserving open space in this city reflected by the differences in these two sentences is the major issue as
it pertains to land use. I attended every Public Workshop related to this General Plan revision. I don't
recall a single non -developer, private citizen participant in those Workshops arguing for this change. A
better sentence would read: "Over the objections of many private citizens, pressure from developers to develop
the City's supply of vacant land continue to mount, especially on vacant land that may have been designed or
restricted as open pace by previous development approvals through the County and, then, subsequently purchased
by our Mayor". (Also see Land Use Strategy 1.5.3)
The next to last sentence in this section states, (page I-6) "However, regional circulation studies,
sponsored by the Counties of Orange, Los Angeles and San Bernardino, have included a proposed
transportation corridor to resolve congestion impacts." There has NEVER been any study done on a
"Transportation Cerridor" for- this- area. -Thc only professionally, written -studies that have been done -were
done on a proposed "REGIONAL BYPASS ROADWAY".
Under G. MAJOR ISSUES, 2 Circulation (page I-6): Am I to understand that the potential
construction of Tonner Canyon Scenic Highway is no longer a "Major Circulation Issue"? You certainly
wouldn't think so by reading the two sentences listed here. I suggest the following: "Tonner Canyon Scenic
Highway has been proposed as a regional bypass roadway. This proposed roadway would connect the 60 Freeway
in the north (at or about Chino Hills Parkway/Phillips Ranch Road) to the 57 Freeway in the south (at or about
the Brea Canyon Road underpass). Although professionally generated traffic studies have shown this road to have
a major impact on helping to solve our City's surface street trafftc congestion problems, local environmentalist
and other private citizens have expressed a considerable amount of concern as to whether the construction of this
roadway through S.E.A. 15 can be accomplished in an environmentally sensitive manner."
Under G MAJOR ISSUES, 3. Economics (page I-6): This section doesn't really accurately describe
the Major Issues as it relates to "Economics". Does it? Does this council really want to vote in favor of
a document that states, unequivocally, that there are "increased or new costs associated with" the mere act
Mr. Terry Belanger
RE: Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated 6/16/93
June 18, 1993
of becoming a City? How can we ignore here the impact on our municipal finances caused by the actions
of and decisions made by the State Legislature and Governor's office?
Isn't the Major Issue here one of "what are we going to do with our remaining vacant land, our
existing commercial areas and our in-home businesses to spur economic development and avoid a known,
less than propitious economic future without embracing a political philosophy that mandates increased taxes,
assessments and fees."?
The last sentence presently reads, "The sphere of influence area, as well as several large parcels in
and around town, contains potential fiscal resources which may be sources of municipal revenues." That's
not an issue statement. I read that and say to myself; "Yeah. So'? What's the problem?"
If we are going to be honest about what the Major Issue is as it pertains to Economics, shouldn't
this section say something about the Council's reluctance to discuss my proposal to actively pursue those
projects mentioned in my suggested revisions to our Vision Statement listed above? If not that, then how
about the Council's reluctance to articulate a true comprehensive vision of their own?
I'm not going to re -write this section for you. I can tell you that if you had taken the time to
address this problem from the beginning, there probably would never have been a referendum in the first
place. Further, in my opinion, if you can forge acceptable compromise verbiage for this paragraph, you'll
understand the motivation behind and thereby probably avoid any potential future lawsuit over this
document.
Mr. Terry Belanger
RE: Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated 6/16/93
June 18, 1993
IN THE LAND USE ELEMENT:
Under C. EXISTING CONDITIONS, 2 Non -Residential Uses (page I-3): In the last paragraph of
this section, does the 158 acres listed for schools include the acreage for Diamond Ranch High School?
Also, the last sentence refers to Figure I-1. However, on page I-6, the Figure this sentence refers to is
entitled Figure I-5. (The Land Use Map on page I-24 has no Figure number or page number listed.)
NOTE: On page I-3, paragraph "4. Sphere of Influence" should be paragraph V. Sphere of
Influence".
Under C. EXISTING CONDITIONS, Figure 1-5 Existing Land Use (page I-6): The undeveloped
property (vacant/open lands) owned by R -n -P, Arceiro and the Pathfinder Homeowners' Association north
of Pathfinder is not accurately depicted on the map. Neither is the R -n -P owned property south of Grand
by the County line, nor the 10 acres owned by Eric Stone adjacent to Golden Springs Road south of the
60 Freeway.
Also, I don't understand why the rest of the vacant land surrounding our City was not included on
this map. The vacant land outside our borders west of Brea Canyon Cut-off and south of Pathfinder was
included. I'd like to see the additional vacant land west of our City and south of Pathfinder included in this
map. I would also like to see the property owned by the City of Industry's Urban Development Agency,
on both sides of our city, included as vacant land on this map, as well as the vacant land that makes up the
City of Brea's Sphere of Influence. These changes would help dramatize the fact that we do not exist in
a vacuum.
Under D. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ISSUES, L Land Use Mid a. Determination of Deed
Restriction Status (page I-7): If the City conducted an "Open Land Survey" to identify prior development
restrictions (both map and deed), why is there an issue that states there is a need to confirm those
restrictions? That's not the issue. The issue is whether or not the City is going to enforce those restrictions
(both map and deed) and, if so, how?
Under D. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ISSUES, L Land Use Mix, b. Open Space Definition and
Preservation (page I-7): Although I don't object to implementing a feasible open space acquisition program,
this section does not acknowledge the fact that the City's own legal council has stated five times during the
Public Hearings on this document that the Council has the full authority to enforce both existing MAP and
DEED restrictions on vacant land, thereby preserving that vacant land, without it being legally termed a
"taking of privaie property". TYff section -leaves the impression that the ohTy *ay the City can presi!N6 open
space is by acquiring property. That is not true.
Under D. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ISSUES, L Land Use Mid c. Economics, (page I-8): See
my comments above under G. MAJOR ISSUES, 3. Economics (page I-6).
Under D. LAND USE GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES (pages I-10 through I-23): I
would like to see the following changes.
Strategy 1.1.1.d. Change this to 12 units per acre. (page I-11)
Strategy 1.1.1.e. Add: In conjunction with this plan's stated desire to bring a new limited
enrollment institution of higher learning (e.g., University of California) campus to that undeveloped area of the
City known as Tres Hermanos Ranch, designate a combination ResidentiallRetail/Commercial land use category
of Mired Use (MIX) to be available for an as yet undefined area surrounding the associated 142 acre reclaimed
4
Mr. Terry Belanger
RE: Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated 6/16/93
June 18, 1993
water lake. As such, housing projects within this area could be built at densities higher than 16 units per acre
and at densities that would provide housing for all income segments of identified need (page I-11)
Strategy 1.2.5 (No Changes, but correct the spacing) (page I-13)
Strategy 1.2.6 Change to read: Broaden the range of, and encourage innovation in,
housing types when possible. Require development within all residential areas to provide amenities such as
common usable, active open space and recreational areas. (page I-13)
Strategy 1.3.1.c. Add: In conjunction with this plan's VISION STATEMENT's stated desire
to bring a new limited enrollment institution of higher learning (e.g., University of California) campus to that
undeveloped area of the City known as Tres Hermanos Ranch, a combination Residential/Retail/Commercial land
use category of Mixed Use (MIX) will be available for an as yet undefined area surrounding the associated 142
acre reclaimed water lake. As such, commercial projects which compliment and supplement these other planned
projects within this area (e.g, Hotel, conference center, etc.) will be pursued (page I-14)
Strategy 1.3.3.b. Add: Typical uses for the commercial/retail section of the mired use center
planned for Tres Hermanos Ranch include general retail, specialty retai4 food and drug stores, restaurants,
financial institutions, lake front recreational or educational oriented businesses. (page I-14)
Strategy 1.3.5.e. Add: Actively promote plans to locate a limited enrollment institution of
higher learning (e.g., a University of California campus) and its associated mixed use "City within a City" center
on Tres Hermanos Ranch in Diamond Bar. (page I-15)
DELETE existing Strategies 1.4.5, 1.4.6 & 1.4.7. (page I-16)
ADD the following new Strategies 1.4.5, 1.4.6, 1.4.7 & 1.4.8: (page I-16)
1.4.5 Pursue a cooperative program with the Pomona Unified School District to construct a
high school in the City of Diamond Bar on Tres Hermanos Ranch.
a. As part of the high school development, pursue development of major joint use meeting
& recreational facilities (e.g., auditorium, pool, ball fields, tennis courts, footballlsoccer
stadium, gymnasium, etc.).
1.4.6 Actively promote plans to locate a limited enrollment -institudon• of higher- learning-
(e.g., a University of California campus) on Tres Hermanos Ranch in Diamond Bar.
a As part of the school development, pursue development of major joint use
meeting & recreational facilities (e.g., auditorium, conference center, pool, ball
fields, tennis courts, footballlsoccer stadium, gymnasium, etc.).
b. Coordinate these plans with other plans for this property (Le., The 1200 acre
potable water lake, the 142 acre reclaimed water lake, the High School and
Tonner Canyon Scenic Highway).
1.4.7 Actively promote plans by the Metropolitan Water District and the City of Industry's
Urban Development Agency to locate a 1200 acre potable water lake on lower Tres
Hermanos Ranch in Chino Hills and Diamond Bar.
5
Mr. Terry Belanger
RE: Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated 6/16/93
June 18, 1993
a. Coordinate these plans with other plans for this property (i.e., The 142 acre
reclaimed water lake, the University, the High School and Tonner Canyon
Scenic Highway).
b. Promote the inclusion of public recreational access and activities in this lake's
plans.
1.4.8 Actively promote plans by the City of Industry's Urban Development Agency to locate
a 142 acre reclaimed water lake on Tres Hermanos Ranch in Diamond Bar.
a. Coordinate these plans with other plans for this property (L e., The 1" acre
potable water lake, the University, the High School and Tonner Canyon Scenic
Highway).
b. Promote the inclusion of public recreational access and activities in this lake's
plans.
C. Promote the inclusion of mixed use zoning(retaillresidential/coniniercial) on
property surrounding the lake.
DELETE existing Strategy 1.5.1. (page I-16)
ADD the new Strategy 1.5.1: (page I-16)
1.5.1 Maintain an inventory of previous dedications, designations or decisions regarding open
space made by the County of Los Angeles and the City.
a. Require developers of vacant land to provide appropriate title or other ownership
documents to identify any development restrictions (map or deed) on the
property.
b. Development rights on these properties are limited by the covenants recorded
when these tracts were subdivided. During that subdivision process, the owners
covenanted (i e.; promised) that, notwithstanding any zones on these prvperries,
these lands would not be developed or, in some specific cases, developed with
only one residential unit. It is the City's policy to not renegotiate these prior
map and/or deed restrictions unless, after a separate public hearing, it is deemed
that doing so would benefit the community.
Strategy 1.5.2.d. Add: Areas that should be considered for future park facilities include, but
are not limited to, Sandstone Canyon, Upper Sycamore Canyon, and Tonner Canyon. (page I-16)
Strategy 1.5.3 Change to read: Define "open space" lands as vacant, map or deed -
restricted, undeveloped properties to be retained for purposes of visual amenity, environmental resource
protection and fire/slope stability hazard abatement. Recreational facilities, both active and passive, which
incorporate undeveloped land, are not included in this definition. Require a public hearing prior to any City
action which would change existing map or deed restrictions on such open space lands. (page I-16)
ON
Mr. Terry Belanger
RF- Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated 6/16/93
June 18, 1993
Strategy 2.1.1 Add the following new paragraphs "c." through "g.": (page I-19)
C. The City will actively encourage the development of the Ties Hermanos Water
Resource Project's potable water reservoir in Chino Hills and pursue a project
that will benefit and correspond with the other projects on Tres Hermanos and
Tonner Canyon in Diamond Bar.
d. As the City pursues possibility of locating a limited enrollment institution of
higher learning (e.g., University of California) in that portion of Tres Hermanos
Ranch in Diamond Bar, it will discuss with the City of Chino Hills the
possibility of that campus extending into a portion of Tres Hermanos Ranch
in Chino Hills.
e. City will coordinate its efforts to construct Tonner Canyon (Road) Scenic
Highway with the City of Chino Hills, the City of Industry's Urban Development
Agency, the Counties of San Bernardino and Orange, as well as the
Metropolitan Water District.
f The City will monitor the progress of development proposals within the City
of Brea's northern sphere of influence and will coordinate the planning for
Diamond Bar's sphere of influence with the City of Brea.
g. The City will pursue discussions with the City of Industry regarding Industry's
plans for their presently undeveloped property west of the 60/57 freeway
interchange, north and south of Grand Avenue. With superior mutually
beneficial planning this site has unique potential for stimulating economic
development throughout the region. Correspondingly, without due diligence in
the planning process, this site's potential of negatively impacting the City of
Diamond Bars residents' living environment is significant.
Strategy 2.3.2 Add the following new paragraph "a.":
a. Pursue a variety of funding mechanisms for new development in addition to
developer fees and construction by developers, including tar increment
(redevelopment) financing. (page I-20)
Strategy 4.2.2 Change to read: Seek annexation of unincorporated areas west of the City,
including expansion of the adopted Sphere of Influence, where the following findings can be made: (page
I-23)
Strategy 4.2.3 Add: Pursue discussions with the City of Industry regarding. annexing their
Urtinn Development Agency -owned acreage (Tres Hermanos Ranch) in Chino Hills. (page I-23)
Under REVISED - 6/16/93 - LAND USE MAP (page I-24): Designate MAP and deed restricted
property as open space.
7
Mr. Terry Belanger
RE: Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated 6/16/93
June 18, 1993
IN THE HOUSING ELEMENT:
Under D. HOUSING AVAILABILITY, L Inventory of Land Suitable for Residential Development
(page II -12): Change the last paragraph to read:
"The reason for a lack of detail in the Diamond Bar land use inventory is that most of the large
vacant properties remaining in the City are hilly with little infrastructure in place or immediately adjacent.
The largest vacant parcel, called "Tres Hermanos", is designated as "Agricultural" because there are no
approved development or improvement plans at present. It is intended that specific housing projects within
Tres Hermanos be built in conjunction with this plan's stated desire to bring a new limited enrollment institution
of higher learning (e.g., University of California) campus and its associated mixed use area surrounding the 142
acre reclaimed water lake to this property. As such, housing projects within Tres Hermanos could be built at
densities higher than 16 units per acre and at densities that would provide housing for all income segments
of identified need."
Under D. HOUSING AVAILABILITY, L Inventory of Land Suitable for Residential Development; a.
Residential Land Use Categories (page II -13): Add the following new paragraph to read:
Mixed Use
In conjunction with this plan's VISION STA TEMENT's stated desire to bring a new limited enrollment institution
of nigher learning (e.g., University of California) campus to that undeveloped area of the City known as Tres
Hermanos Ranch, a combination Residential/Retail/Commercial land use category of Mired Use (MIX) will be
available for an as yet undefined area surrounding the associated 142 acre reclaimed water lake. As such,
commercial projects which compliment and supplement these other planned projects within this area (e.g., Hotel,
conference center, etc.) will be pursued
Under n. HOUSING AVAILABILITY, L Inventory of Land Suitable of Residential Development, C.
Development Standards and Land Use Controls (page II -15): Change the last paragraph to read:
"It is much more realistic and cost effective for the City to plan that the majority of affordable
housing to be built in Diamond Bar will be built on the Tres Hermanos Ranch in conjunction with this
plan's stated desire to bring a new limited enrollment institution of higher learning (e.g., University of California)
campus and its associated mixed use area surrounding the 142 acre reclaimed wetter lake to this propelty;�.,The
City of Diamond Bar believes that the combination of density bonuses and a City housing in lieu fund, along
with use of State and federal programs will be. sufficient to meet its proportionate share of low and
moderate income housing needs.
Strategy 1.1.12 Add: Actively promote plans to locate a limited enrollment institution of higher
learning (e.g., a University of California campus) and the City of Industry's Urban Development Agency's plan
to locate a 142 acre reclaimed water take on Tres Hermanos Ranch in Diamond Bar. (page II -21)
a. Coordinate these plans with other plans for this property (i.e., The 1200 acre
potable water lake, the High School and Tonner Canyon Scenic Highway).
b. Promote the inclusion of mixed use zoning (retail/residential/commercial) on
property surrounding the lake in order to promote economic development of
the City while helping the City meet its existing housing needs as well as those
associated with the new institution of higher learning.
Mr. Terry Belanger
RE: Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated 6/16/93
June 18, 1993
IN THE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ELEMENT:
DELETE existing Strategy 1.3.9. (page III -12)
ADD new Strategies 1.3.9, 1.3.10, 1.3.11 and 1.3.12 as follows:
1.3.9 Pursue a cooperative program with tate Pomona Unified School District to construct
a high school in tate City of Diamond Bar on Tres Hermanos Ranch.
a. As part of the high school development, pursue development of major joint use
meeting & recreational facilities (e.g., auditorium, pool, ball fields, tennis courts,
football/soccer stadium, gymnasium, etc.).
1.3.10 Actively promote plans to locate a limited enrollment institution of higher learning (e.g.,
a University of California campus) on Tres Hemtanos Ranch in Diamond Bar.
a. As part of the school development, pursue development of major joint use
meeting & recreational facilities (e.g., auditorium, conference center, pool, ball
fields, tennis courts, football/soccer stadium, gymnasium, etc.),
b. Coordinate these plans with other plans for this property (Le., The 1200 acre
potable water lake, the 142 acre reclaimed water lake, the High School and
Tonner Canyon Scenic Highway).
1.3.11 Actively promote plans by the Metropolitan Water District and the City of Industry's
Urban Development Agency to locate a 1200 acre potable water lake on lower Tres
Hemtanos Ranch in Chino Hills and Diamond Bar.
a. Coordinate these plans with other plans for this property (i. e., The 142 acre
reclaimed water lake, the University, the High School and Tonner Canyon
Scenic Highway).
b. Promote the inclusion of public rec►eatiohal ai;cesi and activities in this J ,,ke's
plans.
1.3.12 Actively promote plans by the City of Industry s Urban Development Agency to locate
a 142 acre reclaimed water lake on Tres Hermans Ranch in Diamond Bar.
a. Coordinate these plans with other plans for this property (i. e., The 1200 acre
potable water lake, the University, the High School and Tonner Canyon Scenic
Highway).
b. Promote the inclusion of public recreational access and activities in this lake's
plans.
I
Mr. Terry Belanger
RE: Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated 6/16/93
June 18, 1993
IN THE PUBLIC SERVICES AND FACILITIES ELEMENT:
Under C. PUBLIC SERVICES AND FACILITIES ISSUES, (page VI -3): It is interesting that the
first paragraph discusses the supposed need for an ill-defined Civic Center. I don't recall anyone during the
Public Workshops arguing on behalf of this project. Additionally, I have yet to understand why the same
arguments the Council voiced against a proposed University idea weren't also used against this proposed
Civic Center idea. Or, better yet, why the same logic and arguments in favor of the Civic Center idea
weren't used in favor of the University idea.... or, the lakes..... or the roads. This is where the question
Where's the (beef) vision?" most dramatically begs for an answer.
DELETE existing Strategy 1.1.5.a (page VI -4)
ADD new Strategies 1.1.5.a c& 1.1.5.b as follows: (page VI -4)
Strategy 1.1.5.a: Actively promote plans by the Metropolitan Water District and the City of
Industry's Urban Development Agency to locate a 1200 acre potable water lake
on lower Tres Hermanos Ranch in Chino Hills and Diamond Bar.
Coordinate these plans with other plans for this property (i.e., The
142 acre reclaimed water lake, the University, the High School and
Tonner Canyon Scenic Highway).
? Promote the inclusion of public recreational access and activities in
this lake's plans.
Strategy 1.1.5.b: Actively promote plans by the City of Industry's Urban Development Agency
to locate a 142 acre reclaimed water lake on Tres Herr ianos Ranch in
Diamond Bar.
Coordinate these plans with other plans for this property (i. e., The 1200
acre potable water lake, the University, the High School and Tonner
Canyon Scenic Highway).
2. Promote the'inclusion q public iecreational access and activities in
this lake's plans.
3. Promote the inclusion of mixed use zoning
(retail/residential/commercial) on property surrounding the lake.
REVISE Strategy 1.3.1 as follows: (page VI -5)
Strategy 1.3.1 Pursue a cooperative program with the City of indestry aft the Pomona Unified
School District to seeffe land aft construct a high school ift the Pefnone * T-'ft_a w l Distfiet in the City
of Diamond Bar on suet m with:_ Tres Hermanos Ranch. As part of the high school development,
pursue development of major joint use meeting & recreational facilities (e.g., auditorium, pool, ball fields,
tennis courts, footballlsoccer stadium, gymnasium, etc.).
11
Mr. Terry Belanger
RE: Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated 6/16/93
June 18, 1993
IN THE CIRCULATION ELEMENT:
This is STILL A MESS.
First of all, with the exception of the Housing Element (whose format is dictated by the State), all
the other elements are divided into four basic subsections: Introduction, Existing Conditions, Major Issues
and, then, Goals, Objectives and Strategies. I suggest this Element be completely reorganized and re-
written to reflect a continuity of presentation with the rest of the General Plan.
Everything you need to write a good Circulation Element is already here or in the Master
Environmental Assessment document. It just needs to be reorganized and rewritten.
The original Circulation Element was written by a separate consultant. It had a continuity of
thought. Although it never got around to drawing a line on a map to show the proposed roads, it
documented existing and foreseeable traffic conditions and, then, came to certain logical conclusions.
The General Plan Advisory Committee didn't like the conclusions, so it left the documentation in,
took the conclusions out and forwarded the document on to the Planning Commission. Not the Traffic
Commission. The Planning Commission.
The Traffic Commission had about three days to look at it before the Planning Commission
discussed the document. The Traffic Commissioners were required to give their opinions regarding this
Element before the Planning Commission as average citizens.
The Planning Commission decided to reinstate the conclusions that the G.P.A.C. had taken out, but
then, they illogically (supposedly) moved all of the documentation supporting those conclusions to the
M.E.A. document. The net result is that the Council received a document that made no sense at all.
(That doesn't explain why the Council approved this mess. It just explains how it got this way.) The
proposed changes to this Element shown in this Draft only compound the problem.
Additionally, the map entitled V-1 (page V-12) is wrong. The arrows are in the wrong place and
will probably stay that way until this Council owns up to its legal responsibility to DRAW
THE LINES FOR THE PROPOSED ROADS ON THE MAP!
Page V-1: Government Code Section 65302(b): A Circulation Element consisting of the general
location and extent of existing and proposed major thoroughfares, transportation routes, terminals,
and other local public utilities and facilities, all correlated with the Land Use Element of the plan.
Land Use Element Page I-2: B. REQUIREMENTS: State law requires that General Plans be
comprehensive, internally consistent and long term........ Comprehensive: A General Plan must be a
comprehensive planning document, covering not only the geographic area within the City boundaries, but
also the areas adjacent to the City that bear a reasonable relationship to City planning.
Areas outside of the City liMitS may include the actual Sphere of Influence, as adopted
by L.A.F.C.O., or may be larger or different areas that create planning
constraints on the City.
10
Mr. Terry Belanger
RE: Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated 6/16/93
June 18, 1993
DELETE existing Strategy 1.4.2 (page VI -5) Note: The California State University and Colleges
system has no plans to locate a new campus in Southern California. Besides, we already have Cal -Poly and
Cal State Fullerton in our local area and there is little likelihood that a new Cal -State campus would be
located this close to those existing Cal -State campuses.
ADD a new Strategy 1.4.2 as follows: (page VI -5)
Strategy 1.4.2 Actively promote plans to locate a limited enrollment institution of higher learning
(e.g, a University of California campus) on Tres Hermanos Ranch in Diamond Bar.
a. As part of the school development, pursue development of major joint use meeting &
recreational facilities (e.g., auditorium, conference center, pool, ball fields, tennis courts,
footballlsoeeer stadium, gymnasium, etc.).
b. Coordinate these plans with other plans for this property (Le., The 1200 acre potable
water lake, the 142 acre reclaimed water lake, the High School and Tonner Canyon
Scenic Highway).
Respectfully,
Mr. Gary L. Ncely
344 Canoecove Drive
Diamond Bar, California 91765
909/861-6100
12
CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA
Mayor — Gary G. Miller
Mayor Pro Tem — Phyllis E. Papen
Councilman — John A. Forbing
Councilman — Gary H. Werner
Councilman — Dexter D. MacBride
City Council Chambers
are located at:
South CoastAir QL&Ity Manageawt asirktAudltonum
218.5 East Copley Drive
ease re ainom n ea :n or: In mQIn.1hecourid.
MEETING DATE:
MEETING TIME:
JUNE 29, 1993
General Plan
Public Hearing
7.00 p.m.
Terrence L. Belanger
City Manager
Andrew V. Arczynski
City Attorney
Lynda Btigess
City Clerk
Copies of staff reports or other written documentation: relating to each ttsm iiboed #o rn thitsoenda
are on Min the Office of the City Clark, and are available for',public inapecliorl Ifypo;hsYve questions
regarding an _agenda item, please contact the City Clerk at (9a9) G.-24 duMdji.00606s'hours
The City of Diamond Bar uses RECYCLED paper and encourages you to do the same.
THIS MEETING IS BEING BROADCAST LIVE BY JONES INTERCABLE
FOR AIRING ON CHANNEL 12, AND BY REMAINING IN THE ROOM,
YOU ARE GIVING YOUR PERMISSION TO BE TELEVISED.
1. CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Mayor Miller
ROLL CALL: Councilmen MacBride, Forbing, Werner,
Mayor Pro Tem P.apen, Mayor Miller
2. PUBLIC HEARING:
2.1 ADOPTION OF THE GENERAL PLAN: The General Plan is a
statement of goals, policies and implementing programs to
guide the long-range physical development of the City.
The Plan is required by State Law and determines the
size, form and character of the City over the next twenty
years. It is the most significant tool utilized by the
community to ensure a balanced, comfortable environment
in which to live and work. It represents the community's
view of its future and serves ad the "blueprint" to
define the long term character of the City. In March of
1993 the City Council authorized the retention of a
consultant team to further develop the - Draft General
Plan. Five community workshops have been conducted with
residents to identify key planning issues and discuss
potential General Plan policy options. The results have
been summarized and forwarded to the Council for
consideration. Five Public Hearings have been conducted
to consider specific revisions to the Draft General Plan
(dated July 14; 1992) to receive additional public input
on the entire Draft General Plan.
The purpose of the June 29, 1993 Public Hearing is to further
review the Draft 1993 General Plan.
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the City Council
open the Public Hearing, receive a presentation from the
General Plan consultant team, receive public testimony,
forward comments to City staff and continue the Public Hearing
to July 6, 1993.
3. ANNOUNCEMENTS:
4. ADJOURNMENT:
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
AGENDA REPORT
AGENDA NO. 02
TO: Terrence L. Belanger, City Manager
MEETING DATE: June 29, 1993 REPORT DATE: June 25, 1993
FROM: James De Stefano, Community Development Director
TITLE: Adoption of the 1993 General Plan
SUMMARY: The General Plan is a statement of goals, policies and implementing programs to guide the long-
range physical development of the City. The Plan is required by State Law and determines the size, form and
character of the City over the next twenty years. It is the most significant tool utilized by the community to ensure
a balanced, comfortable environment in which to live and work. It represents the community's view of its future and
serves ad the "blueprint" to define the long term character of the City. In March of 1993 the City Council authorized
the retention of a consultant team to further develop the Draft General Plan. Five community workshops have been
conducted with residents to identify key planning issues and discuss potential General Plan policy options. The results
have been summarized and forwarded to the Council for consideration. Five Public Hearings have been conducted
to consider specific revisions to the Draft General Plan (dated July 14, 1992) to receive additional public input on the
entire Draft General Plan.
The purpose of the June 29, 1993 Public Hearing is to further review the Draft 1993 General Plan.
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council open the Public Hearing, receive a presentation from
the General Plan consultant team, receive public testimony, forward comments to City staff and continue the Public
Hearing to July 6, 1993.
EXTERNAL DISTRIBUTION: Library
SUBMITTAL CHECKLIST:
1. Has the resolution, ordinance or agreement been reviewed
by the City Attorney?
2. Does the report require a majority or 4/5 vote?
3. Has environmental impact been assessed?
4. Has the report been reviewed by a Commission?
Which Commission?
5. Are other departments affected by the report?
Report discussed with the following affected departments:
REVIEWED BY:
1V
Terrence L. Belang r J es DeStefano
City Manager Community Developm nt Director
Yes X No
MAJORITY
_ Yes X No
Yes X No
X Yes _ No
CITY COUNCIL REPORT
AGENDA NO.
MEETING DATE: June 29, 1993
TO: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: Terrence L. Belanger, City Manager
SUBJECT: Adoption of the General Plan
ISSUE STATEMENT: The General Plan is a statement of goals, policies and
implementing programs to guide the long-range physical development of the
City. The Plan is required by State Law and determines the size, form .and
character of the City over the next twenty years. It is the most significant
tool utilized by the community to ensure a balanced, comfortable environment
in which to live and work. It represents the community's view of its future
and serves ad the "blueprint" to define the long term character of the City.
In March of 1993 the City Council authorized the retention of a consultant
team to further develop the Draft General Plan. Five community workshops
have been conducted with residents to identify key planning issues and
discuss potential General Plan policy options. The results have been
summarized and forwarded to the Council for consideration. Five Public
Hearings have been conducted to consider specific revisions to the Draft
General Plan (dated July 14, 1992) to receive additional public input on the
entire Draft General Plan.
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council open the public
hearing, receive a presentation from the General Plan consultant team,
receive public testimony, forward comments to City Staff, and continue the
public hearing to July 6, 1993.
BACKGROUND: On May 19, 1993, City Council began the public hearing
adoption process for the General Plan. The Council received testimony on
proposed revisions related to land use and open space policy. The public
hearing was continued to May 26th in order to further discuss the Land Use
Element, Open Space related policy and present the Circulation Element. The
May 26, 1993, continued public hearing accommodated further public testimony
and Council discussion. The hearing was continued to June 2, 1993, for a
review of the Circulation Element. The June 9, 1993, public hearing provided
an additional opportunity for public review and comment on the entire General
Plan.
On June 16, 1993, the City Council received a presentation on the 1993
General Plan, specifically, the substantial areas of change which reflect a
significant difference to the 1992 General Plan.
1
In accordance with Government Code Section 65356 the City Council has
referred the proposed 1993 General Plan to the Planning Commission for review
and recommendation of the proposed substantial modifications contained within
the document. The Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing on June
28, 1993 and their report will be forwarded to the City Council on June 29,
1993.
The purpose of the June 29, 1993 Public Hearing is to further review the
Draft 1993. General Plan.
Several changes to the 1993 General Plan were suggested at the June 16, 1993
public hearing. Addendum pages are attached which reflect proposed
revisions.
PUBLIC BEARING NOTIFICATION:
Public hearing notices were previously published within the San. Gabriel
Valley Tribune and Inland Valley Daily Bulletin in accordance with State Law.
In addition, public notices were published within the Diamond Bar Highlander.
Notice of the public hearings have been mailed to several hundred names on
our General Plan mailing list. All General Plan documents have been
available for review at City Hall and the County Library.
PREPARED BY:
James DeStefano
Community Development Director
attachments:
1. Addendum
2. Correspondence received from Gary Neely dated June 18, 1993
F4
June 24, 1993
ADDENDUM
(June 29, 1993 Edition)
SECTION PAGE
Title Page
Acknowledgements
Introduction
Pages 1 thru 19 (Entire section rerun because of
change in page numbering)
Land Use Element
Pages I-2, I-12, I-16, I-17
Housing Element
II -3 thru II -5, II -12, II -19, II -21, II -22 thru II -24
Resource Management
III -3, III -12
Element
Public Health and Safety
IV -11
Element
Circulation Element
V-5, V-6, V-11, V-13, V-14
Public Services and VI -1, VI -2
Facilities
Figures: Figure 2 - Community Workshop
Figure 3 - Regional Location
Figure 4 - Significant Ecological Area
Figure I-1 - Existing Land Use
779.00
GENERAL PLAN
City of Diamond Bar
June 29, 1993
General Plan Revision Program Consultants
Cotton/Beland/Associates, Inc.
Moore Iacofano Goltsman, Inc.
Austin -Faust Associates, Inc.
779.00
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Introduction............................................1
Land Use Element ...................................... I-1
Housing Element ...................................... II -1
Resource Management ................................. III -1
Public Health and Safety Element ......................... IV -1
Circulation Element .................................... V-1
Public Services and Facilities Element ...................... VI -1
Diamond Bar General Plan
June 29, 1993
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Gary G. Miller, Mayor
Phyllis E. Papen, Mayor Pro Tem
Gary H. Werner, Councilmember
John A. Forbing, Councilmember
Dexter MacBride, Councilmember
Terrence L. Belanger, City Manager
Jack Grothe, Commissioner
Bruce Flamembaum, Commissioner
Michael Li, Commissioner
CITY COUNCIL
Jay C. Kim (Former Councilmember)
Paul Horcher (Former Councilmember)
Don Nardella (Former Councilmember)
Robert L. Van Nort, (Former City Manager)
PLANNING COMMISSION
David Meyer, Chairman
Lydia Plunk, Vice Chairman
Dexter MacBride (Former Commissioner)
Grace Lin (Former Commissioner)
Clair Harmony (Former Commissioner)
David Schey (Former Commissioner)
Robert Kane (Former Commissioner)
GENERAL PLAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE
(Original Membership)
Diamond Bar General Plan
June 29, 1993
Ed Layton
Karla, Adams
Dr. Jui-Kaung Lin
Carole Anderson
Catherine Lott
John Bennett
Dexter MacBride
Ross Bilotta
Pat McGinn
Paul Bordwell
David Meyer
Tim Brunridge
Steve Nelson
Karen Castleman
Khanh Nguyen
Todd Chavers
Victor Ochoa
Noel Cunningham
Cindee Quan
Jan Dabney
Don Robertson
Rose Dam
Don Schad
Bruce Flamembaum
Kofi Sefa-Boakye
Art Fritz
Mike Sment
Gregory Gaffney
Eric Stone
Mike Goldenberg
Donald Taylor
Clair Harmony
Kamal Trivedi
Greg Hummel
Steve Webb
Shally Hsu
Ed Yogoobian
Bob Kane
Joe Larutta
Diamond Bar General Plan
June 29, 1993
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
(Continued)
STAFF
James DeStefano, Community Development Director
Irwin M. Kaplan, Planner Emeritus
Robert L. Searcy, Associate Planner
Ann J. Lungu, Planning Technician
Marilyn C. Ortiz, Administrative Secretary
CONSULTANTS
Planning Network
DKS Associates
GENERAL PLAN WORKSHOP ATTENDANCE
Diamond Bar General Plan
June 29, 1993
WORKSHOP #
1A
1B
2A
2B
3
NAME
Audrey Hamilton
X
Martha Bruske
X
X
X
Norman & Barbara Beach-Courchesne
X
X
X
Dexter MacBride
X
X
X
X
Billie Schwarz
X
Don Schad
X
X
X
X
X
David Conetta
X
X
X
Virginia Cylkowski
X
Wayne Block
X
X
Rod Lehman
X
Kay Lehman
X
X
Franklin Fong
X
X
James Roberts
X
X
X
Oscar Law
X
Randy Mang
X
Clair Harmony
X
Mike Graves
X
Linda Graves
X
X
David Craig
X
X
Clifford Craig
X
X
Diamond Bar General Plan
June 29, 1993
GENERAL PLAN WORKSOP ATENDANCE
(Continued)
Diamond Bar General Plan
June 29, 1993
WORKSHOP #
1A
1B
2A
213
3
NAME
Gary Neely
X
X
X
X
X
Max Maxwell
X
X
X
X
X
Red Calkins
X
X
Theresa Zavala
X
X
Jack Bath
X
Don Gravdahl
X
X
Alice Houseworth
X
X
Ray Forrest
X
Cornelia & Ernest Pizzo
X
Frank Dursa
X
X
David Damaske
X
Gary Werner
X
Kathleen McCarthy
X
X
Marilyn Kieffer
X
X
Sherry Rogers
X
Eileen Ansari
X
Debbie & Bill Noyes
X
X
Ken Knolf
X
Sue Sisk
X
X
X
Tom Van Winkle
X
X
X
Ken Anderson
X
X
X
C.W. Heaton
X
Tina & Brian Worth
X
Harold Fraser
X
Rod Riepen
X
Mel Davis
X
Carolyn Elfelt
X
Tom Ortiz
X
X
W. Tinsman
X
Chuck Rogers
X
X
George Kingston
X
Philip Lo
X
X
Wilbur Smith
X
Todd Chavers
X
Beverly D'Errico
X
Diamond Bar General Plan
June 29, 1993
GENERAL PLAN WORKSOP ATENDANCE
(Continued)
NAME
WORKSHOP #
1A
1B
2A
2B
3
Eric Stone
X
Jan C. Dabney
X
Dr. Dan Buffington
X
John Forbing
X
Diamond Bar General Plan
June 29, 1993
B PURPOSE
State planning law requires that each city and county adopt a comprehensive, long-term general plan for the
physical development of any lands in its jurisdiction, and for any land outside its boundaries which bears
relation to its land use planning activities. The General Plan must contain a statement of development
policies as well as diagrams and text that identify objectives, principals, standards, and plan proposals.
Seven elements are mandated by the Government Code:
• Land Use Conservation
• Circulation • Safety
• Housing Noise
• Open Space
In addition, Section 65303 of the Government Code provides that the plan may include any other elements
which, in the judgment of the legislative body, relate to the physical development of the City. The combination
of two or more mandated elements is permitted. Since many development and environmental issues are so
interrelated, the Diamond Bar General Plan has been organized into five tltt�af P j6 Mut
$: REQUIREMENTS
Government Code Section 65300 defines the General Plan as a long-term document. By projecting conditions
and needs into the future, the General Plan establishes a basis for evaluating current policy and providing
insight on future policy. State law requires that general plans be comprehensive, internally consistent, and
long-term.
• Comprehensive - A General Plan must be a comprehensive planning document, covering not
only the geographic area within the City boundaries, but also the areas adjacent to the City
that bear a reasonable relationship to City planning. Areas outside of the City limits may
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 2
INTRODUCTION
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 1
Growth Management Plan
Regional Housing Needs Assessment
$: COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION
State law requires citizen participation in the planning process. Recognizing the importance of organized
citizen input into the planning process, a General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC) was established by the
City Council. The GPAC represented a diversity of groups within the Diamond Bar community. At the
beginning of the General Plan process, numerous interviews were held with community leaders to provide
input to the GPAC regarding citizen concerns. Workshops were held with the GPAC on a regular basis
through the initial, formulation stages of the planning process.
tgure 1 describes the Gsnmtintty I'articfpataQn Programa
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993
include the actual sphere of influence, as adopted by the Local Agency Formation
Commission, or may be larger or different areas that create planning constraints on the City.
Not only must the General Plan be comprehensive in terms of area, it must also address all
of the relevant issues that legitimately face the jurisdiction (issue comprehensiveness).
• Internally Consistent - In 1975, the Legislature adopted the "internal consistency"
requirement, which means that all elements of the General Plan are equally important and
must be consistent with one another. In addition, diagrams within the General Plan must
be consistent with the text. If a new element is adopted or a part of the General Plan is
amended, the rest of the plan must be changed wherever inconsistencies result. Otherwise,
there will be confusion regarding community policies and standards.
In addition to internal consistency, the General Plan must be consistent with zoning -- a
primary tool in the implementation of the General Plan.
• Long -Term - One of the most important guidelines for General Plans is that they address
a broad enough horizon so that their strategies have sufficient time to be implemented, and
so that their vision is to meet the best long-term needs of the community. However, it is also
important to keep the timeframe with reasonable parameters, so the document will not
become dated too quickly, and so that its level of analysis can be more accurate, since the
error rate of projections tends to increase geometrically as time increases.
DM E CONSISTENCY WITH OTHER PLANNING PROCESSES
To be an effective guide for future development, the General Plan also must provide a framework for local
development that is consistent with the policies of appropriate Statewide and regional programs and
regulatory agencies. General Plans must comply with all requirements of the California Environmental
Quality Act, as amended. In addition, the following legislation or regulations directly affect Diamond Bar:
STATE-WIDE
• Surface Mining and Reclamation Act
• Alquist-Priolo Special Study Zones Act
• Sphere of Influence as regulated by the Local Agency Formation Commission
REGIONAL- South Coast Air Quality Management District
• South Coast Air Quality Management Plan
REGIONAL- Southern California Association of Governments
• Regional Mobility Plan
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 3
Figure 2
(continued)
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City of Diamond Bar General Plan Revision
Community Workshop IA
April 21,1993
(Part Three of Three)
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 A
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City of Diamond Bar General Plan Revision
Community Workshop 1A
April 21,1993
(Part One of Three)
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City of Diamond Bar General Plan Revision
Community Workshop 1A
April 21,1993
(Part Two of Three)
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 5
Figure 2
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City of Diamond Bar General Plan Revision
Community Workshop 1B
April 24,1993
(Part Three of Three)
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 2
Figure 2
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Community Workshop 1B
April 24,1993
(Part One of Three)
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Community Workshop 1B
April 24,1993
(Part Two of Three)
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 7
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City of Diamond Bar General Plan Revision
Community Workshop 2A
April 28,1993
(Part Three of Three)
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 10
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Community Workshop 2A
April 28,1993
(Part One of Three)
City of Diamond Bar General Plan Revision
Community Workshop 2A
Apri128,1993
(Part Two of Three)
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 9
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City of Diamond Bar General Plan Revision
Community Workshop 2B
May 1,1993
(Part Three of Three)
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 12
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City of Diamond Bar General Plan Revision
Community Workshop 2B
May 1,1993
(Part One of Three)
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Diamond Bar General Plan
June 29, 1993
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City of Diamond Bar General Plan Revision
Community Workshop 2B
May 1,1993
(Part Two of Three)
Introduction
11
F I CITY HISTORY
The City of Diamond Bar is located in the southeast corner of Los Angeles County, at the intersection of Los
Angeles, Orange, and San Bernardino counties. The City is situated at the intersection of Los Angeles,
Orange, and San Bernardino counties. The City is situated at the eastern end of the East San Gabriel Valley,
adjacent to both State Routes 57 and 60, as shown in Figure L. Eigttf:es 1 and 2.
Diamond Bar began as "Rancho de Los Nogales" (Ranch of the Walnut Trees) after a Spanish land grant in
1840. At its height, it was one of the largest cattle and walnut ranches in Southern California. Until the mid
20th century, this land was alternately combined and divided for various agricultural uses. In 1956, the
Christiana Oil Corporation and the Capital Oil Company, a subsidiary of the Transamerica Corporation,
purchased the Diamond Bar Ranch. A comprehensive development plan was prepared and approved for the
City, making it one of the first master -planned communities in the county.
During the 1960s, suburbanization spread eastward from the Los Angeles basin, stimulating local housing and
population growth as Diamond Bar's open hillsides were replaced by homes. Despite its th'i.i. t conception
as a master -planned community, Diamond Bar has not g 6%ffi ani# developed man ot'chestraled canner. ss
'"'""` ual wef-e built As a result of this development pattern, Diamond Bar today is primarily a
residential community. F8F many yeam,
e homes !hat may or. may not kave high ifteames ia mat---- In ltifarclt ea 1989 3tiffe-Bf 1988, local
voters 0-0 deeided to incorporate and on April 18, 1989, Diamond Bar became Los Angeles County's 86th
...........
city.
G F-. MAJOR ISSUES
Planning for Diamond Bar is driven by three overriding issues which have a multitude of implications on the
City's future:
Land use (including open space)
Circulation
The economics of municipal financing.
While the following sections briefly describe each of these issues in more detail, it must be remembered that
they are inexorably woven together to form the fabric of the City. The li 111g O Assues < s nat intended tQ
>�I�Y picot:
1. Land Use
Diamond Bar is primarily residential, which contributes to the overall rural atmosphere of the City. However,
this condition creates a lack of land to provide needed goods, services, and jobs, so that residents are forced
to drive to other communities to shop and work.
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 14
Figure 2
(continued)
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City of Diamond Bar General Plan Revision
Community Workshop 3
May 12, 1993
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 13
While much of the City is already developed, there are still some undeveloped canyons and hillsides left in
the City that could represent significant open space resources for residents. Deyelepment aver the past 30
yeRFS has eeneentfated on efeating views ffom residential hillside lots. and nat fteeessafily wha! -Aews weF
hke of the hillsides. Many choices are needed as to if or how the City wants its remaining open land to
develop, especially land that may have been designed or restricted as open space by previous development
approvals through the County.
2. Circulation
Diamond Bar's location gives residents excellent access to regional resources. However, it also causes several
of its local streets to be used as freeway bypasses by commuter traffic. The Gity's 16eatieft Means that it
3. Economics
The residents of Diamond Bar presently enjoy a high quality of life, and have had relatively low costs
associated with high levels of service during the ttme it was ;;ark unincorporated
community. While Cityhood has brought local control, it also requires decisions on long-term financing of
local services and facilities. The largely residential nature of the City eantfibetes to its pufal feeling, but ftise
means there are less local businesses and services for residents, which translates into less municipal revenues
from sales tax. In addition, many residents moved to Diamond Bar because of the historically low rate of
taxation under the county, and may resist increased or new costs associated with Cityhood.
................
...................
The sphere of influence area, as well as several large parcels in and around town, �epfesen ca t!taW:
.................................................
potential fiscal resources in terms iu.. mai bC Sa1TMe$ of municipal revenues.
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 16
LOS ANGELES
COUNTY
WALNUT
WEST
COVINA
BREA
DIAMOND BAR CITY LIMITS
��- COUNTY BOUNDARY
SPHERE OF INFLUENCE
GENERAL PLAN
Figure 3
Regional Location
G Hi DOCUMENT CONTENTS
The mal follQwutg elements of the Diamond Bar General Plan have been eambined inte the fallowing
deStgtie to address the variety of environmental issues that affect the City.
Diamond Bar
General Plan
State Mandated
General Plan Elements
Issues
..................
.............
Plait for. Land Use Mewftt Land Use Land Use
.............
..................
..................
..................
Plan —for. Housing 3~14660 Housing Housing
Plan for
Management
Ell e.:e. t
..................
.................
Platy -for
Public Health
and Safety letueut
Pian fey
Public Services and
Facilities Element
Open Space
Conservation
Visual Resources
Biological Resources
Park and Recreation
Water Resources
Energy Resources
Solid Waste
Mineral Resources
Agriculture
Safety Geology
Seismicity
Flooding
Fire Protection
Crime Protection
Emergency Services
Hazardous Materials
Air Quality
Noise
Noise
City Financing
Economic Development
Plike fer Circulation Circulation
Physieel Mobility Trails
Omit ii,
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 18
1
II I
GENERAL PLAN
CURRENIIY -111—IDI-1111 WIFI
LOS ANGELES COUNTY SIGNIFICAN
ECOLOGICAL AREA (" 15
(Tpnnos ConyayChino Hills
SWRCE:
Lw Mpolw Cowmly GO—
F1—. 310ali " ECao01c01
Maw Rop-. 19)0 I+IRs
C.
��-�I—pl: ana, R.9-1
Ess—,.0 DepaM—t, kippcl
Mglyss Socllon, 1990,
Figure 4
inificant Ecological Area
FN7�:7
NORTH 0 2000 4000 8000 FEET
1. Residential Uses
Diamond Bar is comprised of rolling hills and valleys between rapidly urbanizing freeway
corridors (west and north) and the la-tgeiy. undisturbed �asphere of Ixtfluc (tom
and south). According to the California Department of Finance, the City has a total of 1q,664
dwelling units that presently house a population of 33;67 $4 15 residents
The City is primarily residential,
Single family detached units represent the majority of the City's housing stock(12,589 uttits of
q1.3 per-eent). The remaining 5,9:* units are aftaebed (multi family) tittits or mebile hentes with
432 eondetninitims (23.9 MPFRPMA AJQ �pertmema (3.; pereent), and 294 mobile itames (I.
peFeeeE} Approximately 616 l it of the single family units (3-peFeer are on large,
"rural" residential lots (one acre or more). In general, development densities are greater in the
flatter portions of the City (west), while larger lots predominate in the upland areas (east).
Along the 57 and 60 freeway corridors, single family lots are generally under 10,000 square feet.
Detached single family developments in these areas have been built at 34 4.41 dwelling units per
acre, which represents over half of the City's entire housing stock. While single family
development predominates, multi -family projects can be found along Diamond Bar Boulevard,
south of Grand, and on Golden Spring Drive, north of Diamond Bar Boulevard. These
developments usually occupy small sites along major roadways, and are built at 10-20 units per
acre. The more dense multi -family projects (16 units per acre) are asaalb, older condominiums
approved by Los Angeles County prior to incorporation. This western half of the City generally
contains the older housing, built in the 1960s and early 70s. The City also has four apartment
complexes of moderate density (10.9-16.7 units per acre), with most located on major arterials
such as Diamond Bar Boulevard.
Typical of most affluent suburban communities in hillside areas; lot size, unit size, and unit price
in Diamond Bar generally increase with the degree of slope. East of Diamond Bar Boulevard,
development density (units/acre) decreases as lot size increases. "The Country," a private gate -
guarded community, contains 616 homes and occupies 855.5 acres along and just west of the ridge
separating the City from Tonner Canyon. Here, lots may be several acres or more, depending on
the severity of the slope.
2. Non -Residential Uses
Non-residential uses comprise b0 t 2(l'.', aefe_ or ` percent of the City's land area.
Commercial uses occupy sefes-(1.9 agprotumately €wo percent of tette) mainly located along
Diamond Bar Boulevard and portions of Golden Springs Drive/Colima Road. Office uses occupy
approximately 140 acres, with a major 110 -acre corporate office complex located just east of the
southern intersection of the 57 and 60 freeways; this Gateway Corporate Center is presently less
than half completed. Approximately 84 acres of industrial/business park uses are located along
Brea Canyon Road, north of Lycoming Avenue. Parks, public facilities, open space, and roads
occupy the remaining 1,463 aer-es (I peFeeot; area.
The building areas shown in Tables I-1 and I-2 are for existing commercial, office, and light
industrial uses and were calculated based on representative samples of shopping centers, office
parks, and industrial parks within Diamond Bar. Building area can be estimated based on Floor
Area Ratio (FAR), or the ratio of building area in square feet divided by the total area of the site
(in square feet). For example, a building with 17,500 square feet on a 1 acre site (43,560 square
feet) has an FAR of 0.40 (17,500 divided by 43,560). Local leasing companies were contacted to
Diamond Bar General Plan Land Use Element
June 29, 1993 I-2
W.L, GENERAL PLAN FORMAT
The 199-23,Diamond Bar Draft General Plan is divided into three documents for ease of reference.
1. Document 1: General Plan
The first document contains the five actual divisions of the General Plan proper, that is, the compilation of
the goals, objectives, and implementation strategies of the Plan. This document contains an introduction, and
the Land Use, Housing, Resource Management, Public Health and Safety,
Public Services and Facilities, and C C** uIitio EI6 ent. Physieaa--A4eHility
...............................................
.................................................
2. Document 2: Master Environmental Assessment 004ted on 7j1a/92
This document contains the Master Environmental Assessment for the City, which will provide a
comprehensive and consistent baseline of environmental data from which further (project -specific)
environmental analyses can be performed.
3. Document 3 1~ina1 Environmental Impact Report/Technical Appendices (Cert#..ed'1
This document contains the Draft Environmental Impact Report for the General Plan, including the Notice
of Preparation and Responses. The EIR contains the appropriate environmental documentation for the
General Plan as required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) including detailed analyses
of the various impacts of ultimately development Diamond Bar. This document also contains all of the
technical appendices not specifically related to the EIR, such as noise, air quality, land use summaries and
alternatives, etc Ari Addet duttt tt3:th . F1 Tit .rirqutt ed pr r ttT adt ption of the Gette al Plan;:
The organization of the General Plan can thus be visualized as follows:
• Document 1
• Document 2
Master Environmental Assessment
• Document 3
Environmental Impact Report
Technical Appendices
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 19
support services, and commercial uses requiring more land area than is available
in General Commercial or Commercial Office areas. These areas will maintain a
maximum floor area ratio of 0.25 to 1.00.
1.1.4 The Public Facilities (PF) designation is designed to identify existing or potential
(future) sites for necessary public facilities or infrastructure improvements. The
primary purpose of land designated as Public Facilities, is to provide areas for the
conduct of public and institutional activities, including but not necessarily limited
to, local, State, and federal agencies, special districts, and both public and private
utilities. These uses maintain development standards which do not exceed that of
the most restrictive adjacent designation.
1.1.5 Areas designated as Open Space (OS) provide recreational opportunities,
preservation of scenic and environmental values, protection of resources (water
reclamation and conservation), and protection of public safety. This designation
also includes lands which have been deed restricted to open space as the result of
previous subdivision activities. This designation carries with it a maximum
development potential of one single family unit per parcel, unless building was
previously restricted or prohibited on such properties by the County.
1.1.6 Provide Park (PK) designations for existing and future public parks. Designate the
Diamond Bar Country Club as Golf Course. Designate major private recreational
facilities (e.g. Little League ball fields, YMCA, the park within The Country) as
Private Recreation (PR).
1,1.7 Encourage the innovative use of land resources and development of a variety of
housing and other development types, provide a means to coordinate the public and
private provision of services and facilities, and address the unique needs of certain
lands by recognizing a Planned Development (PD) designation, in which residential,
commercial, recreational, public facilities, and other land uses may be permitted.
This designation is to be applied to properties which are generally surrounded by
existing development, and where creative approaches are needed to integrate the
proposed development into existing development patterns.
1.1.8 Encourage the innovative use of land resources and development of a variety of
housing and other development types, provide a means to coordinate the public and
private provision of services and facilities, and address the unique needs of certain
lands by recognizing a Specific Plan (SP) designation for large scale development
areas in which residential, commercial, recreational, public facilities, and other land
uses may be permitted. This designation wad Eie is -to -b applied ii th ..Tuture to
. .I......
large properties on the periphery of Diamond Bar which are to be developed into
self-supporting planned communities within the overall context of the Diamond Bar
community.
1.1.9 Recognize existing land use designations within the Diamond Bar sphere of influence
by recogn zing an Agricultural (AG) designation for the Vires. ermauc)s prEzp rfy
fim°t<"Tonner Canyon area. Within this designation, permit agricultural and
compatible open space and recreation uses (see also Land Use Element Strategy
1.6.3).
Diamond Bar General Plan Land Use Element
June 29, 1993 1-12
GENERAL PLAN
Figure 1-1
Existing Land Use
M7Lm77
NORTH 0 2000 4000 8000 fEET
IIIIIIIIN—
c1l"MIRCK
11,11c,
"llull"A'
okPAkKSISCFIOOLSIPIJBLIC
FACILITIES
VACANT/OPEN LANDS
C[ly LIMITS
SPHERE OF INFLUENCE
Figure 1-1
Existing Land Use
M7Lm77
NORTH 0 2000 4000 8000 fEET
Objective 1.6 Provide flexibility in the planning of new development as a means of encouraging superior design.
�traie�es,
1.6.1 Within the Planned Development classification, all residential land uses considered
to be appropriate within the City of Diamond Bar, as well as support uses (e.g. open
space and recreation, public facilities, commercial, limited employment -generating
uses), may be appropriate, as determined in the development review process.
1.6.2 Require that Planned Development projects provide a greater level of community
amenities and cohesiveness, achieve superior design, and create a more desirable
living environment than could be achieved through conventional subdivision design
and requirements.
1.6.3 At such time as development might be proposed, encourage formulation of a specific
plan pursuant to the provisions of Government Code Section 65450 for the Sphere
of Tuflgeace area that will protect its unique biological and open
space resources, create fiscal benefits for the City and enhance its infrastructure,
while minimizing future adverse impacts to both the human and natural
environment of the City, as well as the region (see Strategy 1.1.4 of the Physical
Mobility Element).
1.6.4 Encourage formulation of a specific plan pursuant to the provisions of Government
Code Section 65450 for the 800 acres in the northeast segment of the City known as
Tres Hermanos. This area represents a unique opportunity to provide facilities of
a type and in a manner which take advantage of the site. Facilities appropriate for
this site should be designed based upon a vision for the future, and not merely
extend the patterns of the past. Such facilities ffmy+ shtii l include a high school
and other educational institutions, reservoir for practical and aesthetic purposes,
commercial developments which are not typical of those found in the area, and a
variety of residential, churches, institutional, and other uses which are
complementary to the overall objective of having a master planned area.
Development within the Tres Hermanos area should be designed so as to be a part
of the Diamond Bar community, as well as compatible with the adjacent lands.
1.6.5 Establish a process to allow the transfer of density or development rights from land
with important open space (or other resources), to land that is more suitable for
development.
Diamond Bar General Plan Land Use Element
June 29, 1993 I-17
1.4.3 When a public agency determines that land it owns is no longer needed, ensure that
the property is offered to other agencies, including the City of Diamond Bar, for
public uses, prior to conversion to private sector use.
1.4.4 Designate and pursue acquisition of a centralized site for use as a civic/multi-
purpose community center.
Objective 1.5 Maintain a feeling of open space within the community by identifying and preserving an adequate
amount of open land.
Strategies:
1.5.2 Identify lands to be preserved in open space along with funding mechanisms .
a. Investigate the need for a bond issuance to purchase open space areas not
already protected by open space restrictions.
b. Investigate the need for establishment of one or more Landscape and
Lighting Districts to provide for open space improvements and maintenance.
C. Investigate the potential for establishment of a maintenance district for
privately -owned, slope areas that are along or visible from major roadways.
Diamond Bar General Plan Land Use Element
June 29, 1993 I-16
Table II -1
Diamond Bar Housing Stock (1990] „Y 9
Source:
(-July 1988) and California Department of Finance;.
Unincorporated area in 1988.
C. Substandard Units
Diamond Bar's housing stock is considerably younger than most of the County, with all of its housing being
built after 1960. By comparison, the Los Angeles County General Plan (Housing Element 1987) indicates that
11.5 percent of units in unincorporated areas were built prior to 1940, and 52.6 percent were built prior to
1960. Both the City's Code Enforcement Officer and the Building Official indicate that Diamond Bar has no
units that are considered substandard. There is no Census data on substandard units and units in need of
rehabilitation or replacement. However, the Census documents that of the 763 vacant housing units in the
City, only 3, or less than half of one percent, were boarded up.
d. Housing Assistance Needs
California housing law requires regional planning agencies to identity existing and future housing needs for
all income levels every five years. In addition to the distribution of housing need, regional planning agencies
must seek to avoid further "impaction" of jurisdictions with relatively high proportions of lower income
households. SCAG issued the housing assessment for Los Angeles County in the 1988 RHNAreport. Existing
need is defined as the number of resident lower income households paying 30 percent or more of their income
for housing. Although SCAG published a supplement to the RHNA documenting existing and future need
figures for new cities on February 16, 1989, it did not include Diamond Bar since it was incorporated after
this date.
According to SCAG, future need is defined as the number of additional housing units by income level that
will have to be added to each jurisdiction's housing stock from July 1, 1989 to June 30, 1994 in order to
accommodate household growth, compensate for demolitions and other inventory losses, and to achieve a 1994
vacancy rate that will allow the market to operate efficiently. In addition, the State Department of Housing
and Community Development has required that localities must account in their Housing Elements for future
needs that will have already occurred during the 1-1/2 year "gap" period from January 1, 1988, to June 30,
1989. The following four income level groups are used to define need for a particular jurisdiction:
"Very Low" -Less than 50 percent of the median income
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
June 29. 1993 11.4
• Analysis and documentation of household characteristics including level of payment
compared to ability -to -pay, housing characteristics, including overcrowding, and housing
stock condition. (Section 65583(a)(2)).
• Analysis of special housing needs, such as those of the handicapped, elderly, large families,
farm workers, and families with female heads of household, and families and persons in need
of emergency shelter. (Section 65583(a)(6)).
• Analysis of opportunities for energy conservation with respect to residential development.
(Section 65583(a)(7)).
1. Existing and Projected Housing Needs
a. Introduction
This section of the Plan for Housing discusses the various factors which induce a demand for housing. The
factors include a review of population and employment trends as well as the City's "share of regional housing
need".
b. Housing Stock Condition
The term "condition" refers to the physical quality of the housing stock. The quality of individual housing
units or structures may be defined as either sound, deteriorating or dilapidated. Sound housing is defined
as a structure with no major deficiencies, although the structure may require minor maintenance, painting,
and general clean-up. A deteriorated structure is one that contains several deficiencies such as patched, loose,
or missing roofing material, missing or broken windows, wood trim or siding worn, weathered or broken, paint
cracking or peeling, loose or worn wiring, etc. Lastly, dilapidated structures contain one or more major
structural deficiencies such as loose protective surface (brick, plaster, wood, siding, etc.), settled porch or roof,
weakened structure or inadequate foundation, obvious deviation from plumbing, extensive damage due to fire,
etc. The term housing "improvements" refer to the "remedial" actions necessary to correct defects in the
housing condition such as demolition, minor repairs, major repairs, and rehabilitation.
According::t.:
o
...,:iM
�Diamond Bar had
a total of W,6(r4 dwelling units and a population of'' 33;6 2 residents. The majority (:t4 41-3
percent) of Diamond Bar's housing units are single-family detached dwellings. A complete breakdown of
housing for the City in . 3999 is shown in Table II -1. According to the 1990 census, median home value
in Diamond Bar was $272,900. A review of resale house price data from the California Market Data
Cooperative (CMDC) in Diamond Bar indicates an average resale value of $312,324
for 1991 which was up 2.7 percent from a value of $304,000 for 1990. These figures were compiled from over
500 individual home sales per year for an average four-bedroom house with approximately 2,000 square feet
that was built in 1975.
A reeeft! hettsing Survey of Dientend Bar indiestes there are a fatal ef 5,045 multi Fenti:ly tntiIs in the City
Of these, +i32 are eendeminium3 or townheme3, distribUted enteng Z6 developments, and 649 apartntenis
in fetes eemplexes No local data was available on average sales prices of condominiums or townhomes. The
1990 census indicates that median rent for the City is $888. A reeent survey showed rental rates in the City
from $745 to $795 for one -bedroom units, from $750 to $915 for two-bedroom units, and from $960 to $1120
for larger units (Planning Network 1991). There are also 148 apartments in !he Gity !hot *re resiriefeed 10
9eeiers—eels The City also has W 494 mobile home units in two trailer parks near Lycoming and Brea
Canyon Road. According to Table II -1, Diamond Bar has a smaller percentage of mobile homes than the
County as a whole.
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
June 29, 1993 II -3
rental housing, factory -built housing, mobilehomes, emergency shelters, and transitional
housing in order to meet the community's housing goals."
The Plan for Land Use contains the inventory of land suitable for residential development, including both
vacant and underutilized sites by residential density category. Areas with sites having a realistic potential
of residential development include: 1) the Tres Hermanos property, occupying almost 1,000 acres at the
northeast corner of the City; 2) the vacant property in the north -central portion of the City, occupying several
hundred acres; and 3) other vacant parcels (10 acres or more) found throughout the City. Although there
is other available land within the City, much of it is very steep or has other physical constraints that would
generally preclude its use for moderate density residential development.
The land within the current City limits that is available for general residential development could yield an
additional 3,500 units. However, the land could support up to 5,000 additional housing units if the density
of development was increased. This potential supply exceeds the projected local need figure of 781 dwellings
for the 1989 - 1994 time period, based on a proportionate share of County -wide housing need as estimated
in the 1987 RHNA report (Trumbell-SLAG 1991).
The reason for a lack of detail in the Diamond Bar land use inventory is that most of the large vacant
properties remaining in the City are hilly with little infrastructure in place or immediately adjacent. The
largest vacant parcel, called "Tres Hermanos," is designated agricultural Rs-R"Spee` 'e
Plan" because there
are no firm development or improvement plans at present. It is intended that specific housing projects within
Tres Hermanos could be built at densities higher than 16 units per acre, at densities that would provide
housing for all income segments of identified need.
a. Residential Land Use Categories
Rwal Residential (0.0 - 1.0 du/ac)
Areas designated for Rural Residential including hillside areas that are suitable for low density residential
areas. These areas are appropriate for rural residential development with a modest amount of open space.
The maximum residential density is up to one dwelling unit per acre (1 du/ac).
Low Density Residential (I.I - .10 du/ac)
The Low Density category limits land uses to single family detached residential. The maximum density within
Low Density areas is up to three dwelling units per gross acre (3 du/ac). Ill Diamond Bar, the development
of second units and attached dwellings behind the primary residential structure is allowed subject to the
provisions of the City's zoning ordinance. In addition, second units and attached dwellings, which were
constructed pursuant to valid permits issued prior to the effective date of this element are permitted, even
if the resulting density of a site would be greater than 3 du/ac.
Low-Mediwn Density Residential (..I - 6:0 ; 4#:.du/ac)
The Low -Medium Density category limits land uses to smaller lot single family detached residential. The
maximum density within Low -Medium Density areas is up to six dwelling units per gross acre (6 du/ac). In
Diamond Bar, the development of second units and attached dwellings behind the primary residential
structure is allowed subject to the provisions of the City's zoning ordinance. In addition, second units and
attached dwellings, which were constructed pursuant to valid permits issued prior to the effective date of this
element are permitted, even if the resulting density of a site would be greater than 6 du/ac.
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
June 29, 1993 11-12
• "Low' -50 to 80 percent of the median income
• "Moderate" -80 to 120 percent of the median income
• "High" -more than 120 percent of the median income
State housing laws require that, in allocating future housing need by income level, further "impaction", or
concentration of lower income households, be avoided. Cities with a percentage of lower income households
higher than the regional average are called "impacted" jurisdictions. The 1988 RHNA addresses the
"avoidance of impaction" criteria by allocating reduced percentages of lower income and increased percentages
of middle and upper income units to impacted jurisdictions while reversing the allocation to non -impacted
cities.
According to the 1988 RHNA, the unincorporated portion of Los Angeles County had 33,492 households in
the Very Low category, 16,826 households in the Low category, and 100,658 households in the Medium
category. Housing element guidelines indicate that households that pay more than 30 percent of its income
towards housing are termed "overpayment". This means that 50,318 households in the County were considered
to be overpaying for housing.
Assuming that Diamond Bar supports a proportionate share of the unincorporated County housing need,
there are 2,466 lower income households in the City paying 30 percent or more of their income for housing
(50,318 times 4.9 percent City vs. County housing). This number equals 15.9 percent of Diamond Bar's total
resident households (based on an estimated 15,500 households in 1988). This figure may be somewhat high,
given local income levels and house prices, however, there are many seniors or retired persons with fixed
incomes in the City, as well as residents that bought houses up to 15 years ago. Because the cost of housing
in this area, as throughout southern California, has risen faster than income, much of Diamond Bar's housing
wealth is not reflected in personal income figures. At present, Diamond Bar is not considered an impacted
jurisdiction (Trumbell-SCAG 1991).
According to Urban Decision Systems, Inc., Diamond Bar is expected to grow by 3,619 households over the
next five years. With no adjustments for vacancy or demolition, Diamond Bar will have an additional 575
households over the next five years that will be overpaying for housing (93,6!9 3,614 times 15.9 percent).
However, it should be noted that application of County -wide figures gives an inaccurate picture of housing
affordability in Diamond Bar.
According to the 1987 Los Angeles County Housing Element (page H-5), the unincorporated portion of Los
Angeles County will need 6,700 new units affordable in the Very Low category and 9,250 units in the Low
category. For Diamond Bar, this equates to 328 units in the Very Low category and 453 units in the Low
category.
The following breakdown for housing need within Diamond Bar by income level was not available prior to
submittal of the Draft Housing Element, but has since been provided by the Department of Housing and
Community Development:
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
June 29, 1993 11-5
for the provision of housing affordable to very low, low, or moderate income
households. If determined to be feasible, implement the program.
1.1.10 Establish parking requirements for housing to a level consistent with the
occupant's transportation needs.
1.1.11 Facilitate the provision of single and multiple family dwelling units available to
very low, low, and moderate income households through participation in the
Mortgage Revenue Bond Program, issuance of Mortgage Credit Certificates, and
use of other viable economic resources. Encourage private sector participation
in the provision of very low, low, and moderate cost housing by offering such
programs to developers who provide at least 20 percent of the housing units
within prices which are affordable to very low, low, and moderate income
households.
GOAL 4: "Encourage adequate housing opportunities for all economic segments of the
community, regardless of age, race, ethnic background, national origin, religion, family
size, sex, marital status, physical conditions, or any other arbitrary factors".
Objective 2.1 Ensure that the existing supply of low and moderate cost housing within Diamond Bar does not
diminish.
Strategies:
2.1.1 Where proposed development projects or other discretionary actions of the City
of Diamond Bar would reduce the number of existing subsidized dwelling units,
ensure that appropriate offsets are provided as part of the proposed action.
a. To avoid potential reduction in the supply of rental housing, prepare a
condominium conversion ordinance which would limit the conversion of
rental apartments to condominiums or cooperatives.
b. Require that all successful conversion applicants provide a relocation
assistance program for displaced tenants, encouraging relocation within the
community.
C. Based on the provisions of Government Code Section 65863.7, consider
requiring the submission of a report detailing the impacts of any proposed
mobilehome park conversion to a nonresidential use concurrent with the
filing of any discretionary permit on such property.
d. Annually assess all affordable or assisted housing units that are considered
"at risk" as delineated in the "Inventory of Federally Subsidized Low -Income
Rental Units at Risk of Conversion (1989)" or other appropriate federal or
State documents.
e. Investigate the feasibility of programs to ensure that "for sale" housing
which is subsidized so as to be affordable to very low, low, and moderate
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
June 29, 1993 11-21
• The appropriateness of the housing goals, objectives, and policies in contributing to the
attainment of the State housing goals.
• The effectiveness of the housing element in attainment of the community's housing goals and
objectives.
• The progress of the city, county, or city and county, in implementation of the housing
element.
At present, the City of Diamond Bar does not have a record of implementing housing programs, and can not,
therefore, report on their progress. These guidelines will be used when the housing element is updated. At
present, neither the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) nor the Los Angeles County
Housing Authority has information on the number or type of federal or State housing subsidies in Diamond
Bar.
The City will prepare the new Comprehensive Housing Assistance Strategy (CHAS) report by the end of the
year which will detail the extent of assistance in the City. Since Diamond Bar's population is over 50,000 it
will be eligible to use Federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds for housing programs.
F HOUSING GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND STRATEGIES
°7T IS THE OVERALL GOAL OF THE PLAN FOR COMMUNITY DE VEL OPMENT THAT THERE
BE ADEQUATE HOUSING IN THE CITY, BOTH IN QUALITYAND QUANTITY, TO PROVIDE
APPROPRIATE SHELTER FOR ALL WITHOUT DIS CRIMINATION. "
GOAL 1; 1': "The City should provide opportunities for development of housing suitable to meet
the diverse needs of residents, and to support healthy economic development."
Objective A. Development of an adequate supply of housing to meet Diamond Bar's housing needs as follows.
Based on Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA).
2 Through 19%.
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
June 29, 1993 I1-19
Five Year
Housing Needl
Housing Goa12
Category
Number
Percent
Number Percent
Very Low
117
15
30 15
Low
182
23
47 23
Moderate
144
18
37 18
Upper
338
43
86ja43Total
781
100
200
Based on Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA).
2 Through 19%.
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
June 29, 1993 I1-19
• Section 221 rental and cooperative housing for moderate income families.
• Section 223 purchase and refinance of existing rental units.
• Section 234 insurance for condominiums.
• Section 241 supplemental loan insurance for existing multi -family rental
housing.
CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT
• Self -Help Housing Program: technical assistance grants and mortgage
assistance for owner -builder organizations.
• Mobilehome Park Assistance Program. Financial and technical assistance
to residents to purchase mobilehome parks.
• California Homeownership Assistance Program. Shared appreciation loans
for manufactured housing or for renters in projects converting to
cooperative or condominium ownership.
• California Housing Rehabilitation Program. Rehabilitation loans from
Proposition 77 to owner occupants of substandard housing, including low
income and rental housing.
• Family Housing Demonstration Program. Loan funds for construction or
purchase and rehabilitation of housing that includes support services such
as child care, job training, etc.
• Rental Housing Construction Program. Loan funds to government agencies
for profit and non-profit sponsors of new rental housing projects.
• Predevelopment Loan Program. Loans to local government agencies and
nonprofit corporations to pay predevelopment costs incurred in developing
low income housing.
• Senior Citizens Shared Housing Program. Funds technical assistance to,
matching services for, and development costs of, shared housing for senior
citizens.
CALIFORNIA HOUSING FINANCE AGENCY
• Resale Program. Below market interest rate mortgage financing for first-
time homebuyers earning less than $40-45,000, depending on family size.
The sales price maximum is presently $113,000.
• Home Purchase Assistance Program. Up to $15,000 deferred payment with
3 percent simple interest second mortgage loans to lower income first-time
homebuyers.
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
11-23
June 29. 1993
income households remain affordable to those income groups after sale to
the first buyer.
Objective 2.2 Prevent housing discrimination in Diamond Bar.
Strategies:
2.2.1 Distribute information regarding the activities of the City to assist in the
resolution of housing discrimination cases.
2.2.2 Participate in the activities of the Long Beach Fair Housing Council as they affect
the City of Diamond Bar.
Objective 2.3 Cooperate with regional agencies to provide housing for the elderly, handicapped, homeless, and
other special needs groups.
Strategies:
2.3.1 Promote housing accessibility for elderly, handicapped, and disabled persons.
2.3.2 Specifically encourage development of assisted rental housing for the elderly,
handicapped, and disabled. Specifically encourage development of such housing
through the use of density bonuses, tax-exempt bonds, and land write-downs,
combined with federal and State housing subsidies.
2.3.3 Provide information regarding the availability of emergency shelter.
2.3.4 Pursue State, federal, and private programs designed to expand housing
opportunities for all segments of society including the elderly and the
handicapped. Determine the extent to which such programs are consistent with
the goals and objectives of the Diamond Bar General Plan, and the extent to
which such programs can be incorporated into future development within the
City. Programs include but are not limited to:
FEDERAL DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT (HUD)
• Federal Community Development Block Grant monies for senior citizen and
handicapped housing projects.
• Section 202 funding for financing of rental housing projects.
• Section 203 insurance for acquisition and rehabilitation financing for single
family homes.
• Section 207 rental housing funding.
• Section 213 cooperative housing funding.
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
June 29, 1993 11-22
recommendation, which will need to be addressed. The City will need to provide adequate park acreage and
recreation facilities to serve the need of present and future residents.
Currently, within the City there is a total of 470.8 acres of recreational facilities, including 59.4 acres of
developed parkland and 75.5 acres of undeveloped parkland for a total of 134.9 acres of city owned park land.
Within the City there are quasi -public parkland and/or facilities that may require user fees; these include the
Diamond Bar Golf Course, YMCAand Little League fields.
There is also a private parkland and facility which consists of "The Country" park. Only residents of "The
Country" can use the park which consists of 16.4 developed acres and 133.5 undeveloped acres.
The City is located within an hour of several regional recreation and national forest areas such as the Chino
Hills State Park, as well as San Gabriel and San Bernardino National Forests to the north and northeast,
which include the summer and winter resort areas of Big Bear Lake and Lake Arrowhead. The forests
provide outdoor activities as diverse as swimming, boating, hiking, camping, downhill skiing, and cross
country skiing. There are also County recreation facilities available at Schabarum Regional Park to the west
and Bonelli Regional Park to the north (which contains Puddingstone Lake).
Within the City, the 57 Freeway is designated as a p aposed: State Scenic Highway with views of the mountains
to the north and east. Local roadways such as Golden Springs Drive, Diamond Bar Boulevard, and Grand
Avenue offer a variety of suburban and open views within the City.
Diamond Bar General Plan Resource Management Element
III -3
June 29, 1993
• Matching Down Payment Program. Matches first-time homebuyer's down
payment up to $5,000. Loans only to CHFA first-time borrowers. Loans
are due on sale and carry 3 percent simple interest.
LOS ANGELES COUNTY HOUSING AUTHORITY
• Section 8 Existing Certificates. Rental subsidies.
• Home Improvement Loan Program. Below market interest rate loans up to
$15,000 for eligible homeowners. Eligible improvements include new roof,
exterior paint, etc. All health and safety violations must be corrected.
• Repair Service Program for Senior Homeowners. One time grant of labor
and materials for eligible homeowners for minor repairs and weatherization
and insulation.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
• If found to be feasible, requirements for provision of "in lieu" funds for
development of housing affordable to low and moderate income households.
PRIVATE ORGANIZATIONS
• Savings Associations Mortgage Company (SAMCO). A statewide
organization supported by stockholder savings institutions to provide
financing for affordable housing projects.
• California Community Reinvestment Corporation (CCRC). A resource pool
supported by the State's banks to assist in financing affordable housing.
2.3.5 Following acquisition of federal Community Development Block Grant funds by
1993, designate a Housing Coordinator in the Planning Department to make
applications for various state and federal programs. Earmark at least $25,000
annually from various sources toward meeting the housing needs of Diamond Bar
residents.
2.3.6 Work with the Los Angeles County Housing Authority and nearby cities to
establish a continuous emergency shelter program serving the eastern portion of
the County. Funds for homeless shelters available through the McKinney Act
include:
• Emergency Shelter Grants for building acquisition and rehabilitation, rental
assistance, and payment of security deposits.
• Section 8 Mod Rehab Assistance for Single Room Occupancy Housing can
be used to rehabilitate a single room occupancy hotel.
• Supplemental Assistance for Facilities to Assist the Homeless.
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
June 29, 1993 11-24
Objective 1. 10 Consider noise issues in land use planning and development permit processing to require that
noise generated by one use or facility does not adversely affect adjacent uses or facilities.
Strategies:
1.10.1 Within identified 65 dB CNEL noise contours, require that site-specific noise
studies be prepared to verify site-specific noise conditions and to ensure that noise
considerations are included in project review.
1.10.2 Within identified 65dB CNEL noise corridors, ensure that necessary attenuation
measures are applied to meet adopted interior and exterior noise standards.
1.10.3 Through the CEQA process, analyze new projects which might have a significant
impact on noise sensitive uses (projects are defined as actions having the potential
to unreasonably increase projected CNEL noise levels). Require appropriate
mitigation measures to ensure that adopted noise standards within sensitive land use
areas are not exceeded as the result of the proposed project.
1.10.4 As part of the Development Code, adopt noise -related development standards.
1.10.5 Where possible, encourage attenuation of existing noise problems within existing
development where adopted noise standards are being reached or exceeded.
1.10.6 As part of Ote futi General Plan review, determine whether: (1) roadway and
freeway traffic levels have increased; (2) new noise generation sources have been
created; and (3) if update of the noise contour map is warranted.
1.10.7 Apply mitigation measures as needed to noise generators and receptors to ensure
that adopted noise standards are met and to protect land uses from excessive noise
impacts.
1.10.8 Ensure that land uses are located so as to meet the following standards:
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Health and Safety Element
>v-11
June 29, 1993
• Initiate a program of identifying environmentally significant areas in the
City and the sphere of influence, and analyze the possibility of protecting
any unique or significant environmental features of such areas.
• Pursue protection of environmentally significant areas.
• Pursue development of an integrated trails system within the community.
1.3.2 Unless there is an overriding public recreation need, require that open space areas,
which are set aside as part of a development project have use suitable restrictions.
1.3.3 Maintain an inventory of open lands which were set aside for open space uses as
part of previous development approvals through the County, and require verification
as to the existence of any potential open space restrictions previously approved on
the subject property, prior to accepting development proposals.
1.3.4 Recreational Open Space shall be preserved as recreational open space including,
but not limited to, the Diamond Bar Golf Course.
1.3.5 Plan for the development of a system of greenbelts within the community.
1.3.6 Strive to provide neighborhood and community park facilities, such that a rate of
5.0 acres per parkland is ultimately achieved.
1.3.7 Develop a Needs Analysis to determine the present and future recreation and park
needs.
1.3.8 Prepare a comprehensive Master Plan of Parks which analyzes present and future
recreation and park needs.
• Develop design standards for park size, location, relationship and impact
to adjacent properties and community facilities.
• Provide list of existing park sites to be improved or expanded.
• Target locations for park acquisition and type of park required.
• List timing and phasing of acquisition and improvements of parkland.
• Provide costs of acquisition and improvements, including funding sources
and implementation priorities.
Diamond Bar General Plan Resource Management Element
June 29, 1993 III -12
Objective 1.3 Maintain the integrity of residential neighborhoods. Discourage through traffic.
Strategies:
1.3.1 Prevent the creation of new roadway connections which adversely impact existing
neighborhoods.
1.3.2 Implement neighborhood traffic control programs to reduce and divert through
traffic.
1.3.3 Design new developments and their access points in such a way that the capacity of
local residential streets is not exceeded.
GOAL 2 "Provide a balanced transportation system for the safe and efficient movement of
people, goods and services through the City.
Objective 2.1 Maximize the use of alternative transportation modes within and through the City to decrease
reliance on single -passenger automobiles.
Strategies:
2.1.1 Maximize the availability and use of public transit service.
2.1.2 Investigate the feasibility of establishing a local transit system. Support privately
funded local transit systems for seniors and youths.
2.1.3 Support mixed-use developments to maximize transportation efficiency.
2.1.4 Pursue a cooperative effort with Caltrans and regional transit providers to develop
a major intermodal transportation facility at the pfopesed Metrolink Station near
Brea Canyon Road and State Route 60.
2.1.5 Encourage participation in carpools through the use of City publications and public
displays.
2.1.6 Coordinate to the extent possible with neighboring cities in the development of a
Transportation Demand Management (TDM) plan.
2.1.7 Work with Caltrans to build new park-and-ride sites and expand existing park-and-
ride facilities.
2.1.8 Expand and maintain the system of bicycle routes connecting residential areas to
major community attractions.
2.1.9 Pursue a cooperative joint agencies program to provide access for Diamond Bar
residents to a regional light rail system.
Diamond Bar General Plan Circulation Element
June 29, 1993 V-6
D. -IG GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES
GOAL 1 "Enhance the environment of the City's street network. Work toward improving the
problems presented by the intrusion of regionally oriented commuter traffic through
the City and into residential neighborhoods. Consider programs to reinforce the
regional transportation and circulation system to adequately accommodate regional
needs."
Objective I Participate in local and regional transportation related planning and decisionmaking.
Strategies:
1.1.1 Preclude the connection of roadways from adjacent jurisdictions into the City unless
demonstrable benefits to Diamond Bar residents and businesses are indicated.
1.1.2 In reviewing transportation improvements, maintain a clear distinction betweenlocal
and regional objectives.
1.1.3 Ensure the opportunity for public comment on major changes in operational
characteristics of the circulation system.
1.1.4
Objective 1.2 Balance the need for optimum traffic flow on City arterials within economic realities,
environmental, and aesthetic considerations.
Strategies:
1.2.1 Prepare programs for traffic control measures.
1.2.2 Maintain flexibility in the cross sections and configuration of streets within
topographically rugged or environmentally sensitive areas.
Diamond Bar General Plan Circulation Element
June 29, 1993 V-5
Table V4 Y•1
City of Diamond Bar Roadway Classification
Los Angeles Roadway
County Diamond Bar Width Dedication Improvement
Roadway Classification* Classification (ft.) Stds. (ft.) Stds. (ft.)
Diamond Bar Blvd.
Major
Major
100
100
100
Colima Rd.
Major
Major
100
100
100
Golden Springs Dr.
"
sepanda �5
Secondary
80
80
80
Grand Ave.
Major
Major
100
100
100
Pathfinder Rd. (e/o Brea Canyon Rd. -west
Major
Major
100
100
100
leg)
Pathfinder Rd. (w/o Brea Canyon Rd. -west
Mita{
Secondary
80
80
80
leg)
Brea Canyon Rd. (s/o Colima Rd.)
iX [fu €
SeeeedOF5
Secondary
so
80
80
Brea Canyon Rd. (n/o Colima Rd.)
Major
Major
100
100
100
Lemon Ave.
Major
Residential-
66
64
64
(s. of Colima)
Collector
UP
Lemon Ave.
Major
Secondary
80
80
80
(n. of Colima)
Sunset Crossing Rd.
iiriat
Cul-de-sac
80
80
64
_.::;.
seeenda
.
...west. pC tS1 .
Washington St.
Ct
SeeeeAat'+}
Cul-de-sac
80
80
64
Beaverhead Dr.
itilGu
lieeeedar
Cul-de-sac
80
80
64
Lycoming St.
Miridt
Seeexda�r
Cul-de-sac
80
80
64
Brea Canyon Cut -Off Rd.
Ltd Secondary
64-80
64-80
64-80
Chino Hills Pkwy.
Major
iv(ajiit
100
100
100
84
*Los Angeles County Highway Plan (NeveinheF 4NO)
Diamond Bar General Plan Circulation Element
June 29, 1993 V-13
Local residential streets include those streets predominantly residential in terms of adjacent property use,
.
and are intended to retain a residential character. They ;ate typ' y g
;call ncit nest Gated Ott thetteral: i'lan
Cuc...- on > Ieruent
..............................................
.............................................
b Roadway Spsteucs.
The Gen rai >'Iaif +Cifccilattt teilY rtt toadWay systcna is €llustr4. d ui Ir�gute ',1 az�d httztiiatxz d...' Table
V I 1 cr r r n rsosr' purpp ie�, t table also shows the prevlous 'Ctrlinty ,xualdxu lest ,n tions a syste*
>s del"iied aCc�7r tEx t1 ctsistioi#s idcscribad cattier' in this <IemtE
.: ...
Ir;eided uttxe roadway systemsiiagcam ase gcitentiat corridors ©ne sel addresses fuiuse access needs fps
tfie s tont Star izt tIIE Tri Hetrii nas RartctE prUpcitir (strategy Nn a#tSi the t��t .fpr reg► r�U.
geriherat txatr prpvidiag..cxess;. betvenhmcl;Hiils Park�yay..alld theRZfreeway
,aYaauteiutatt dust#iy�''Traiisrtatiae CorndErr
orrimenis a transportation faelhtydel'uFed bycharacsti
terics that:
cam tetea11ty'' have teYimat�atrtpacC t�z : etivirptitxtept and atlacent ecosystem �t also rrtet is the
euerai prerngmsi bang ably tb Bllovtr far mQveinents cit people and hods iiia safe aid efficient matriner
f`h+ st•. eftug pet.is# sl►ttctltl : lade �uC bta biin.M14 to'tIt fotlt?�zig
Diamond Bar General Plan Circulation Element
June 29, 1993 V-11
VI. PUBLIC SERVICES AND FACILITIESLE1E1V'
A. INTRODUCTION
State law does not require the preparation of a general plan element dealing specifically with public services
and facilities. However, it does state that...
"The general plan may include any other elements or address any other subjects which, in
the judgement of the legislative body, relate to the physical development of the county or city"
(Government Code Section 65303).
Diamond Bar, as a new City, faces many decisions as how to best provide services to the public, and what
types of facilities it needs to build to support those services. Therefore, a local General Plan element dealing
with the long-term provision of municipal services and facilities is appropriate for Diamond Bar.
The actual provision of various public services has already been addressed in the following sections of the
Diamond Bar General Plan:
I.for
...... _............. _... _....... .
..........................................
.........................................:
I.ttzi t#se Eiet�e�t
..................
III. Platt fef Resource Management le i Cgt
Land Use (for all services & utilities)
Parks and Recreation
Water (and Reclaimed Wastewater)
Energy Systems
Solid Waste
IV. Plan fef Public Health and Safety Flood Control
..................
Police
..................
Fire
Emergency Services
Disaster Preparedness
..................
The Plait fef Public Services and Facilities Met i. #W seeks to tie the provision of these various services and
facilities together into an integrated strategy for municipal management. The Plan focuses on:
• Identifying City facilities and services needed to sustain the community's quality of life
• Long-range planning to fund City services and buildings
• Coordinating and cooperating with various local agencies to provide those services not
provided by the City.
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Services and Facilities Element
June 29, 1993 VI -1
G: Transit and Paratransit Services
Public bus transit service is provided to the City of Diamond Bar by the Southern California Rapid Transit
District (RTD) and Foothill Transit. Both fixed route transit and paratransit service operate within the City
of Diamond Bar. Fixed route transit services are typically bus lines which operate on regular schedules along
a set route, stopping at predefined bus stops. Fixed route service can be either local (intracity) or regional
(intercity). Paratransit services, more commonly referred to as Dial -a -Ride, are demand responsive services
which provide rides to passengers upon an individual request basis. Although they operate within a defined
service area, they do not operate on fixed routes or schedules. Paratransit service typically serve transit
dependent persons such as the elderly and handicapped. They often serve major destinations such as
hospitals and medical facilities but may also take passengers to local destinations such as neighborhood
shopping centers.
'01 lies# Ph# Penn
IeferseeNen Movemen{ LASS LAS
Stinset Gressing Rd./814 6; Ramp All NlayementO £ A
W13 n:... -.,._d n„_ 131Q Left -r...._ .F
A
8B 57 Off FOMP 16ef4 Tiff a $
£
813 57 ()ff famp Through F
D
813 5; Off ramp Righi Tur-n A
A
Diamond Bar. 5W Ramps EB rte:., -.,.,..,a Baa BI..a Left m...... G
A
5:7 Off Famp L44 T -UM
57 Off r -amp T-Itrenit
KH sq Off ramp Right T-tim A
F
IM way SIOP eaftivelled
3. Railroad Lines
There are currently no passenger rail facilities in operation within the City of Diamond Bar. The nearest
Amtrak facilities are located in Pomona and Fullerton. The Pomona Amtrak station, which serves the
Southwest Chief line, is located at 2701 Geary Avenue and is approximately nine miles northeast of Diamond
Bar. The Fullerton Amtrak station, which serves the San Diegans line, is located at the corner of Sante Fe
and Harbor Boulevard and is approximately 13 miles to the southwest.
......................................
AMetrolink commuter rail station liais<Oec ri tit€ IM 'i zeds' along the Union Pacific Railroad
...........................::::. IM 'i g
............................
at Brea Canyon Road, just north of State Route 60.
Diamond Bar General Plan Circulation Element
June 29, 1993 V-14
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS
The City presently has a minimum of in-house staff, and contracts out much of the actual service provision
to local public and private agencies. In-house City services include administration, engineering, planning,
parks and recreation, and maintenance of public facilities. The City is also arranging for local collection of
solid waste. These daily functions are housed in City Hall, which currently consists of office space leased in
the Gateway Corporate Center.
The major physical assets of the City are its streets and parks, which were originally built by the County.
The existing street system is also in good condition at present. Park maintenance is presently handled by City
staff, although maintenance of the local landscape districts is contracted to private firms.
The County of Los Angeles provides a number of services under contract to the City. Wastewater conveyance
and treatment is provided by County Sanitation District No. 21. Although much of the physical sewage
infrastructure (pipelines) appear in generally good condition, there have been repeated failures of the pump
stations needed to lift flows to the regional collectors.
Flood control is provided by the County Flood Control District. Its facilities are in fairly good condition with
a small amount of seasonal flooding near the intersection of Brea Canyon Road and Diamond Bar Boulevard.
Solid waste disposal is handled by the County Solid Waste Management Department using several regional
landfills. However, landfill space could run out before the end of the decade.
Law enforcement in handled by the County Sheriffs Department out of the Walnut -San Dimas Station. Fire
protection, emergency evacuation, and response to accidents involving hazardous materials are all
accommodated by the County Fire Department with three stations in and around Diamond Bar.
The Los Angeles County Library System also maintains a very small community library on Grand Avenue
near Diamond Bar Boulevard.
Other services and facilities are provided within Diamond Bar by a variety of public and private agencies.
Domestic water service is provided by the Walnut Valley Water District, which is in turn supplied by Three
Valleys Municipal Water District and ultimately by the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California.
Water facilities are generally adequate, although the statewide drought makes the long-term supply of water
to this area questionable.
In terms of energy utilities, electricity is supplied by the Southern California Edison Company, while natural
gas is supplied by the Southern California Gas Company. Energy facilities are generally adequate to
accommodate existing and planned uses.
Comprehensive K-12 educational facilities and programs are provided by the Walnut Valley Unified School
District and the Pomona Unified School District.
Other services within Diamond Bar include branch office postal services administered in Pomona, ISH MT.A
...........
bus system, Walnut -Diamond Bar YMCA, and Seniors organization.
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Services and Facilities Element
June 29, 1993 VI -2
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
TO:
Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Counci
FROM: James Destefano, Community Development D
SUBJECT:
Comments on 1993 General Plan from Gary Neely
DATE: June 24, 1993
Attached for your review is a copy of suggested changes to the1993
General Plan presented by Mr. Gar Neel within his correspondence
received June 24, 1993.
JDS\mco
attachment
11
R E P O R T
.,
TO: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City council
FROM: Chairman and Members of. the Planning Commission
DATE: June 29, 1993
SUBJECT: Recommendations Regarding 1993 niamond Bar General Plan
The City Council referred the proposed 1993 Diamond Bar
General Plan to the Planning COmmissien for its review and
recommendations. In response to that charge, the Planning
commission held a study session cn 3une 23, 1993 to prepare for a
public hearing to discuss the 1993 General Plan which was held on
,lune 28, 1993. After taking public testimony asid conducting
deliberations, the Planning Commission voted to recommend
adoption of the 1993 General Plan with the modifications set
forth in Exhibit A, attached hereto.
Attachment
930629 10572-00002 drh 1840540 0
EXHIBIT A
1. Revise page I-1, under the subheading "Retention of existing
residential land use patterns and natural open space," first
sentence, to read as follows: "There is a strong, long -held
desire to maintain the 'planned -community' image of Diamond Bar,
incorporating the hillsides as a distinctive characteristic."
2. Revise page I-1, under the subheading "Retention of existing
residential land use patterns and natural open space," second
sentence, to read as follows: In addition, portions of the
Sphere of Influence (,SOI) and abutting lands within and adjacent
to the City have been included in Significant Ecological Area 15
by the County of Los Angeles."
3. on page I-6, Section 3, "Economics," delete the fourth
sentence, "In addition, many residents moved to Diamond Bar
because of the historically low rate of taxation under the
County, and may resist increased or new costs associated with
Cityhood."
4. Revise Strategy 1.2.8 on page I-13 so that it is consistent
with State law. "Provide density bonuses of 25 percent or more
for projects which provide...."
5. Revise Strategy 1.3.4 on page I-14 to read as follows:
"Encourage the retention., rehabilitation, refurbishment, and/or
expansion of existing business establishments and residentially
compatible home occupations which generate sales tax revenues to
the City, where consistent with other provisions of the General
Plan and Development Code."
6: Revise page I-16 and 1-17 by (a) deleting a portion of
Strategy 1.5.3, the definition of "open space", (b) renumbering
the sentence in Strategy 1.5.3 ("Require a public hsaring prior
to any City action which would change existing deed restrictions
on open space lands.") as Strategy 1.5.4;.(c) renumbering
strategy 1.5.4 as Strategy 1.5.3.
7. Modify the land use map for the Tres Hermanos property from
"Agriculture" to "Agriculture/Specific Plan and modify the text
on page 1-17, Strategy 1.6.4, to more accurately reflect the
short term goal to retain agriculture until such time as the City
is presented with a specific development proposal.
8. Show Chino Hills Parkway and Grand Avenue on the land use
map.
9. Show Significant Ecological Area 15 on the land use map.
lo. Revise page III -2, Section 2, "Biological Resources," second
paragraph, third sentence, to read as follows: "Tonner Canyon
supports a diverse population of native animals, including the
California ground squirrel, cottontail rabbit, coyote, the
930b29 10572.00002 drh 184054C 0
Pacific as well as possibly the endangered Stephen's kangaroo
rat, several species of mice and possibly the California
anatcatcher. 11
11.- Revise page III -6, Section 4, "Water Resources," to reflect
current water conditions.
12. Revise page III -11, Strategy 1.2.3 to read as follows: "In
conjunction with civic organizations, local schools and
volunteers, the City may participate in an environment education
program."
13. Revise page III-il, Strategy 1.2.4 to read as follows:
"Pursue preservation of canyon areas in their natural state, Aa
Practical."
14. State on page IV -5, Section 5, "Emergency Services and
Facilities.," that there are inadequate medical facilities.
:15. Revise page IV -9, Strategy 1.7.1 to state that the'City has
a disaster preparedness plan and should implement this plan.
16. Revise page V-2, Section 1, "Future Development in Diamond
Bar," as follows: "Issue Analysis: The City needs policies to
address impacts to all streets in Diamond Bar and to maintain or
improve roadway level of service."
17. Add a goal in the Circulation Element (V) to encourage the
State to construct the necessary offramps on State Routes 57 and
60 and to improve the interchange at State Routes 57 and 60 at
Sunset Crossing.
18. Add Strategy 1.1.5 on page V-5 to state: "Encourage orange
and San Bernardino Counties to fund and construct an
environmentally sensitive roadway through Soquel Canyon."
19. Revise Strategy 2.2.2 on page V-7 to state that the impacts
from the roadways serving the high school site on surrounding
residential neighborhoods should be minimized.
20. Add a strategy in the General Plan to encourage coordination
with adjacent cities and other agencies to lobby the State and
Federal government on a variety of issues.
930629 10572-00002 d^h 1840540 0
June 29, 1993
779.00
DIAI910ND BAR GENERRIL PLAN REVISION PROGRAM
CITY COUNCIL NEARING: June 29, 1993
As directed by the City Council, the Planning Commission has reviewed the draft
General Plan, and has concurred with the following significmit revisions which
respond to the referendum concerns:
o Reduction Jn PQtcntizl Development Build ut: Reclassification of
emstirg single-larni y detached residential parcels from RLM (Low
tiledium Residential) to RL (Lrow Density Residential);
Reductio:! i;.) maximum Jensit of RLM from 6.0 du/acre to 5.0
du/acre;
(Both revisions would accomrnodate existing singl;-family density if
greater than the classificat or. maximum)
0 Prescrv_ati,_) Of OnCTI Space; Addition of new :ssuc definition and new
strategies to "... develop an open space program which will
identify and acquire, preserve open space..." (Strategy 1,5.4);
Reco;nition of SEA 15: Addition of new language and new
strategy to "... support further definition of the extent and
intensity..." of significant enviromnental resources in SEA 15 (Land
Use Strategi 1.5,5);
,Vote.- The Flaming Commission has suggested elimination of the first
portion o f proposed Strategy 1.5.3 defining open.. space. They suggest
using Strategl- 1.5.3 for this purpose, and retaining the second portion
of 1.5.3 which requires a public hearing for changes of treed
restrictions.
0 1 "ti ation_of cu rent and projected traffic impac .: Removal and
reAsion of issue text references to Tonner Canyon, and addition of
new Circulation Strategy 1.1.4 : "Proactively work with adjacent
,;til ibdiLLlunS in thr- cvaluation of regional transportation linkage
options through the easterly portion of the Spherc of JnNence area
which recognize and prioritize environmental sensitivity (See also
Land Use Strategy 1.6.3.".
_l,
In addition to their concurrence with these major changes, the Commission has : N=
also suggested several items for consideration by the City Council which include
the following:
1. Tres ermanps nropet Change classification to "Agriculture/Specific Plan"
to clarify short range/long range land use policy. (Change Land Use
Element, Housing Elennient and map);
2, Significant Ecological Sre.a SE.�j) 15; Add SEA to Land Use map. Revise
vtsion Statement to iJJCJU1Je "atljaceli.t" aiea ars auL'jcct of nnalvat3
(Introduction);
3. Density boB,,y Charge to read ",..at least 2S percent—", (Land Use Strategy
12,8); and
L. Homme nccu aL. a. C hange to read "... and residentially cernpatible home
occupations—" (Land Use Strategy 1.3.4).
ItI additltSn, tht; COtt!�.ttissiu.t tiquest-d �Lalf 11111 cx,,suitant to rcvicw Table V-1
to resolve questions about street classifications.
J`L3r,::CO
5
i 1" 11
°1
S;'f
r �
27
A, fig, f
Dear City Council,
After reviewing the June 16, 1993 Draft General Plan strike -out
version, we have many changes to submit.
Having attended all the public workshops and all but two City
Council hearings of which our group has reviewed the tapes of
two meetings, we see many discrepancies to what has been P 1993
by the public and what has been written into the June 16,
draft version of the General Plan.
The following pages are the wording and content we request totbe
placed into the final General Plan. Since our group spent
months writing our concepts and discussing them at the public
meetings, using the July 14, 1992 Draft General Plan as a guide,
our format follows that July 14, 1992 version.
In an attempt to update to the June 16, 1993 strike out version, it
was very hard to do so because of the many changes of pages and
lated to the draft general Plan we used.
issues that are not re
Therefore, in an attempt to correct the specific page and issue
numbers, we concluded that more time is necessary to do so. We had
already worked hard to do the best job possible for ease of reading
and cross referencing. However, after working the first few pages
do the June ec the.
draft,
s request and whereediately itwased the draft
att attempted to
does not reflect the p
do so, the language is not strong enough or adequate by any means.
The issues discussed need to be more specific and emphatic
toward
preservation of the open spaces, especially Sandstone Canyon, pP
Sycamore Canyon, Tonner Canyon and controlling development
parameters.
been
We feel this recent process of re doing
ieasethe
thoseGeneral
who aren't has
nothing but a show, attempting to p
of the issues. This is further ev crenfe Staff amond g City Council are
not willing to listen to the people o
This letter is to inform you that because of the past few months
high impact and condensed scheduling of the hearingchanges nd we
no
ting to the public and making
requested, we are prepared acknowledgement of to take legal action to force the City
Council to produce a General Plan that
to do a Second Referendum
meets the needs of those who
have participated. We are also prepared
and a Recall of those on the Council that are eligible.
For the last time, we request the City Council to change the
direction this General
plan has issues anden reach aed and grant us the satisfactory agreement•
to thoughly discuss the
Then provide ample time to proof the changes. What is the rush. We
are working people and can not maintain the accelerated weekly
s
June
30,
1993
City
City
of Diamond Bar
Council
U,
►
2185
E.
Copley Dr.
Diamond
Bar, CA 91765
Dear City Council,
After reviewing the June 16, 1993 Draft General Plan strike -out
version, we have many changes to submit.
Having attended all the public workshops and all but two City
Council hearings of which our group has reviewed the tapes of
two meetings, we see many discrepancies to what has been P 1993
by the public and what has been written into the June 16,
draft version of the General Plan.
The following pages are the wording and content we request totbe
placed into the final General Plan. Since our group spent
months writing our concepts and discussing them at the public
meetings, using the July 14, 1992 Draft General Plan as a guide,
our format follows that July 14, 1992 version.
In an attempt to update to the June 16, 1993 strike out version, it
was very hard to do so because of the many changes of pages and
lated to the draft general Plan we used.
issues that are not re
Therefore, in an attempt to correct the specific page and issue
numbers, we concluded that more time is necessary to do so. We had
already worked hard to do the best job possible for ease of reading
and cross referencing. However, after working the first few pages
do the June ec the.
draft,
s request and whereediately itwased the draft
att attempted to
does not reflect the p
do so, the language is not strong enough or adequate by any means.
The issues discussed need to be more specific and emphatic
toward
preservation of the open spaces, especially Sandstone Canyon, pP
Sycamore Canyon, Tonner Canyon and controlling development
parameters.
been
We feel this recent process of re doing
ieasethe
thoseGeneral
who aren't has
nothing but a show, attempting to p
of the issues. This is further ev crenfe Staff amond g City Council are
not willing to listen to the people o
This letter is to inform you that because of the past few months
high impact and condensed scheduling of the hearingchanges nd we
no
ting to the public and making
requested, we are prepared acknowledgement of to take legal action to force the City
Council to produce a General Plan that
to do a Second Referendum
meets the needs of those who
have participated. We are also prepared
and a Recall of those on the Council that are eligible.
For the last time, we request the City Council to change the
direction this General
plan has issues anden reach aed and grant us the satisfactory agreement•
to thoughly discuss the
Then provide ample time to proof the changes. What is the rush. We
are working people and can not maintain the accelerated weekly
meeting schedule and attend the regular City Council Hearings and
on their own
Planning Commission hearings, these hearings awithinall of which hve n the past few
accelerated schedule during
months.
Max Maxwell
Committee for the New General Plan
2
Land Use Element
This is only the Land Use Element. once
eSthe
Cit we stays
follow
format and refrains from chon one
anging the pages
the issues, we will continue and submit the other elements for
further input!
Diamond BarCitizens to Submitted by Max Maxwell
Country Living
Maxwell
909 861-4121
June 30, 1993
These first few items are referenced to the
June 16, 1993 Draft Version, numbering.
Please note the June 16, 1993 version has incorrect page
The July 14, 1992 version is used as reference afterwards.
pg. (The first) 1-6 para: 2. Add to the last sentence: Many
ment
Diamond Bar residents have opposition to any further de
this
this area in order to protect it's Significant Ecological
pg. I-6 para: 3. Change to read:
Tonner Canyon is located south east of Diamond Bar to of Tonner
the San
Bernardino and Orange County boarder. A large portionhas been
Canyon, including many acres west of the 57 Freeway, 15), Class
designated as a Significant Ecological Area No. 15,
7, set aside in 1976 by Los Angeles County to be protected.
It's an extremely rare and significant part of our natural
definition, SEA 15, supports relatively
environment. BY Woodlands,
undisturbed natural resources of Southern Oak,
scrub and
California Walnut treesas undisturbed
coastal sage
s ncommonout outside Los
riparian woodlands. This pec es
Angeles and Ventura Counties and should beableb ocontinually
support relative healthy animal population, e
preserved.
Tonner Canyon or (SEA 15) is individual and collectively a
sensitive resource containing some of the largest remaining stands
of Walnut Woodlands in the region. Riparian woodlands rod by Fish becoming
nd
increasing rare due to development and are protected
of
Game Code of the Clean Water Act and fall under the
the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
table
This area is adequate in size to support the .genetically s
iti
populations of the plant and animal es it threshold would ben to mainta nnit'sspresent
unknown what the actual area
status. To establish d tailed threshold
studies of o then w
rarest and most
biological diversity,
geotechnological an i.for its al sensitive species is required o
provide a base index
3
-Piecemeal development of even the peripheral portions of SEA No.
15, however small, has and will continue to cumulatively affect the
biological integrity of the region.
pg. I-6. 3. ECONOMICS Last para. Change to read:
Large parcels of land around town and adacentns have expressed
to our city are
potential fiscal resources. Howev,lands such as Tonner Canyon,
the
a desire to preserve the undeveloped
° S sycamore Park, on the Bramelia
the Sphere of Influence, Upper Ybeauty
property and Sandstone Canyon o to developed r their tbya commercial aor
environmental values and n
residential sources of revenue.
(Second page numbering version)
I-1 LAND USE ELEMENT
I-5 Table I-2 SPHERE OF INFLUENCE LAND USE (1990)
What does this table represent?
I-7 D. 1. LAND USE MIX - ISSUE ANALYSIS
to read as previously written b � °he epthe strirevious ke
that
change is not what we want,
out is better, however change to read:
Change
current
struck
(The
was
be
Those open land which have aand/or
theNt title, restrictions
whether or not land
considered to be a permanent part of
has been dedicated to open space or park land. All lands with deed
permanent open
and/or
ce. map restrictions lands clarification ofuld be dicated previouss records on file
space. If o doubt a any restriction(s) the land should be
or absence of a clear deed or oS with restrictions.
considered to be open space (OS)
b. OPEN SPACE DEFINITION AND PRESERVATION
First para. Last sentence reads:
d as
"The City must determine which 1 ands will be thereby requireeacquisitpon
space' which preclude development,
of private property rights."
Change to read:
and areas
This General Plan Map and enclosed liisgindicates Canyon, i Sandstone
to remain "open space", such as UpperY
Canyon, Tonner Canyon and other parcels within the City.
b. Second Para: Eliminate turre�ntly written starting
off as: "Techniques and tools used for
4
(Comment) These dedication should have been made long ago and
determined before the General Plan is adopted.
(Comment) Entitlement, land transfers or land exchanges ar_ a not
permitted.
I-7 b. last para. Replace to read:
A means of protecting these open space and lands that bear deed and
map restrictions must be pursued through an extensive effort of
State, Federal and City funding programs. Acquisition of these
lands may be necessarylhhoweveri ia al land ownedent ors. ds o Previousland
should be pursued with
o
use restrictions, building rights and non commercial values are
be considered in these negations.
Some options are to negotiate with Land Trust a r Conservancies,
vancies,
City's support and participation as the app P
partially funding other bond monies, grants, and public support
measures such as Cal PAW, Prop A. and LATCO.
y must
Public Benefit Tax Assients are not to be of land acquistitonsdwithethet limits
stipulate any acquisitons
andspecifications
cquifi ion. Th°f any such action e final approval must clearly stating the reason by the electorate
for acquisition.
at the ballot box.
I-7 Last Para: ISSUE ANALYSIS: Change to read:
Open spaces are indicated on the "Open Space Map". A feasible open
space acquisition program must be implemented to follow through
with the preservation of these lands
(Comment) The open spaces must be designatedrQ for to the approval (4)
of this General Plan. It has taken the City four years
attempting to produce a General Plan and there are no signs of
preservation of open spaces in this General Plan. Just the
opposite has occurred. Development plans in the City's pipeline
will eliminate our pecius open n spcs are
eforertheoGeneral Plane is l approved.f these pe Specifically
not confirmed b an area previously dedicated with
one development is the SPMP,
"Building Restrictions" and"F OS) when the July 14,ure Park. It also bear 1992tGeneral
Use designation of OpenSpace
Plan left GPAC.
I-8 First para. last sentence. Change the ending of the sentence
that states: "City Government has two ultimate sources of revenue
Local residents and businesses."
Add to the last sentence:
State and Federal Grants and Bond revenues.
I -g Second Para. Eliminate this paragraph.
5
(Comment) This has no place in our City. We do not want higher
density by offering density
bonus ograms. higher density homes s statement is and
argument for more t or
I-8 Para. 3: Eliminate this paragraph.
I-8 Para. 4: Eliminate this paragraph.
I-8 Para. 5: Eliminate this paragraph.
I-8 Para. 6: Replace to read:
New commercial and retail centers should not be promoted or
approved that draw additional traffic r city Corporate problems
unCenrtil the
Gateway existing businesses, especially Y
occupied. The City shousalesd work with local tothe businesses in our City solutions to attract City for them
prof its. In turn
to survive, therefore increasing their incomes and p
the City increases its revenues. A second position should be taken
before attracting new businesses to Diamond
additional traffic Bar that dilute a
starving market and bring
ECONOMICS
Page 5, first para, change last sentence to read:
In addition, many residents moved to Diamond Bar because of the
inner
historical low rate nf taxatfavorloofana adesire natural truralapopene space
city environment l
environmental atmosphere.
Page 5, first para, Delete the following from the last sentence.
...and may resist increased or new costs associated with City
hood."
(Add in)
mailer and lesser government, slow or no
Many residents favor s
immediate solution to traffic problems.
growth policies and an
staff
nd
The City should control usinglthelning a professionall talents aof
promote citizens participationexpensiveof
individuals in the neighborhood prior to hiringwill
consultants. Their volunteerism, at no cost to the city,
serve the community with expertise and knowledge that will create
a cooperative civic ica�azens�unTheirity atmosphere
expertiseand
could rewarding
the
contribution by thosebuy-out fees and
City thousands of dollars in consulting fees, Y -
services. By filing a conflict of interest
form ct ese of interests
will truly be distinguished from having any
Their services, labor or informative information may be considered
in making a final decision when no conflict of interest has been
determined. At no time, will any citizen associated or related to
any contracts issued be eligible to participate or receive
C:
contracts or payment. They can also be advisory to any consulting
firms hired.
eek additional revenues by supporting the needs of
The City should s
existing businesses helping them achieve a 95% occupancy of
existing un -occupied business buildings. This can be done by
promoting development on existing graded pads and vacant business
sites, buildings, offices etc. such as Gateway Corporate Center and
strip malls thatre, and commercial al sector to wardbefore further arovals of oand
ff
developments in thea residential
any increase intraffic
returnand
ofenvironmental
tax dollars tosthe.cityls can be an
immediate effective
Our City government shall approach an increase in income by
aggressively pursuing LATC State ond measuresal monies etc making theble ie.
maximum
gas taxes, Prop A, C, ,
use and not selling off the funds at a discounted rate. The
leverage of using these monies is substantial and can't be
overlooked.
irem
COMMENT: A statement shouldbe
avail able regarding
developers rtou use ein
and the availability
building low income housing. Also, it is mandatory from our view
point that HUD locations be identified on the Land Use Map in this
document prior to it's approval.
Our current Ordinances shall be modified
r o reflectareduction of
and more app
restrictions on signage, padequate facilities in relationship to the type of businesses to provide
ample, but note and lessconditionsed
pleasurable shoppingrestrict ons to the businessman.
The City of Diamond Bar must aggressively work to eliminate traffic
congestion as a major issue by working with regional and
ie. Chino Hills, Chino, Brea, Walnut, City of
neighboring cities
Industry, Pomona an Phillips Ranch, LATCO etc. This may entail
land use restrictions or additional fees on developers to eliminate
the problem. Efforts should be directed to solve the 57/60
freeway interchange traffic problem as soon as possible.
A MORATORIUM will be placed on all future development
f Single
family dwellings and commercial development in the City of Diamond
Bar for five (5) years or until the traffic is reduced to a level
licit, whichever takes the longer time.
Insert in to General Plan under:
I-6, 1. b. ECONOMICS as follows:
The need to increase revenues confronted dramatically by improving
sphere in volume of local with
the City business atmoon
the already existing businesses land lning consistent feesrents etc. Our local
taxes, assessments, building
permits
businesses will have confidence and plan for the long range of sts and
opportunities. Merchants can purchase in volume at lower co
manage at constant costs, not always being threatened by increases
7
and being lured to move out by other neighboring cities that offer
better incentives. Efforts should be extended to establish
St blishlocal
sponsored programs, training etc. for merchants to g
ain knoand benefit of a city that cares and cooperates to help it's
merchants. Diamond Bar can be the leader in bringing our
businesses out of the hard times, through cooperative programs etc.
The following are related to the July 14, 1992 version of the
Draft General Plan.
*********************
The following references are to the July 14, 1992 Draft General
Planust the
after page 8 no reference to June 16, 1993 General Plan, j
July 14, 1992 General Plan.
Page 5 last para. (one sentence) Change to read as follows:
The sphere of influence, surrounding neighborhoods,
ecities
d to the and open
sspace have been researched, evaluated and p deed and map
ty
prior to determination of land use policies, zoning,
restrictions and are presented in this General Plan. Even though
sources of municipal revenues are not as substantial as other
Cities, the citizens desire to live in an open space environment.
"Country Living" must be a priority to considerations to continue
development without a ceiling. It is evident that policies must be
made to reflect those of the citizens who live here, over some of
the desires of a City Government that sees growth as an endless way
of living.
A new public policy should be re-established to give ample
opportunity beyond the basic requirement by law of the legal
notices to notify and inform the citizens of land use decisions
such as a special program of dispersing information.
Pg. 4, 1 Change to read:
Tonner Canyon in our sphere of influence must be recognized and
protected from future development. No development is presently
planned. The City honors this Significant Ecological Area, a
classification granted by Los Angeles County in 1976 as
however 15).
Many concerns have been expressed about this area,
the
city's efforts should be graat d historical values.ad to protect its natural
ecological values,
Pg. 4, 2. Change to read:
The City's location is in a critical location and extremely
sensitive to and plagued with traffic congestion. This solution
should be remedied before any further development occurs in the
City of DiamondBar.
FreewayExtensive
Interchange trafficshould
problem.extended to
resolve the 57/60
8
There is an exclusive opportunity for our city to retain ve etaits
remaining NATURAL environment of forested andlis to preserve
ted
hillsides and parcels within the City. A priority
what the citizens of our city have expressed in a desire tThiseis
an "open space environment" coined as "Country Living.
also an exclusive opportunity to establish to estudylopen museum
space
natural science, create a research library
environmental issues, and pursue environmental educational pr(Sphea ram
within the region and local areas. Tonner on, Sandstone
of
Influence), Sycamore Park and UpperS Yamore Park
Canyon must be preserved and can be the "school rooms".
lete
study
Prior to any development esthese
animal w ldl fe andoraptorl(bird)
should be made to establish
corridors that rely on these wilderness area that are
that will
in our
control. A small window of opportunity exists at present
be gone if nothing is done immediately.
CIRCULATION
pg. 4, Eliminate the last para. which states:
the City's sphere of influence). has been proposed
Tonner Canyon (
as the of a regional bypass roadway... to read:
pg. 4, last para. Eliminate totally or change
Tonner Canyon the City's sphere of influence). and other's such as
Canyon, Carbon as analternative
nrovements on the 57/60 freeway
mustto traffic relief. However,
must be discuss
much controversy exists on the value of all these ri ts. Additional
studies should be made to evaluate the regional p
emphasis on improving there
city
interchange n
and those of adjoining l cities futureas
development in our own City
alternative solutions.
I-3 Table 1-1 and following pages I-3, I-4 to be updated:
to reflect the Rural Hillside (RH) to the newly approved maps that
the
are discussed in the General andthe fold out map Ia5ldat d Junee231n1992
July 14, 1992 version per existing Table I-1 & 2. The new
did not reflect accurate data
lude a Rural Hillside designation (RH) for
map we propose is to inc
of 1 DU/2.5 ACRE in areas of er
icant
a Land Use designation cent (15%)
value in the hilly terrain, such as slopes of f i hea i 1Y wooded and
or more and those adjacent to and in SEA 15,
forested areas and provide adequate buffer zones setting a rural
atmosphere to protect ridge lines and canyons.
I-6 under: D. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ISSUES
1. LAND USE MIX.
a. DISPOSITION OF REMAINING OPEN LAND
9
I_6, 1, a. Issue Analysis: Change to read:
These opto en undeveloped lands that have deed, map and CC&R
come
restrictions er anentain and Open Spaceese (oS) even cif ons are
no dedicationtoa
dedicated as perm P opportunity for
public agency has occurred. Upon determining any pp tion for the
a public dedication those parcels must remain sapermanent Open Space
City to acquire those parcels as part of our as
Policy. The City should endeavor to acquire a deed to the City or
public park space
tionsrtheopen
matter.shouldabsence
sufficientlydeed,
researched,
CC & R restricts the land by submitting
paid by the developer attempting
to develop lding a separate public hearing,
t
proof and information, t to remove or alter any
attem
prior to approval of any P
restrictions.
Any developer wishing to remove or alter any "land use
restriction," Map, Deed, CC&R`s or requests of Annexation must
present to the City Planning Commission and City
Council and
provide notification by certified mail within a two mile radius
and scheduled public hearings to be heard as approvals SEPARATE
Tw111 issue
before any development agreement(s) or map
considered. Upon any doubt of the restriction, the City will accept any dedication in question in favor of land preservation
over future development. It may be necessary to place the issue on
an advisory ballot at the next regularly scheduled election.
I-6, b. ECONOMICS
Eliminate everything under (b)
I-6, b. Change all of the following para. under (b. ECONOMICS)
to read:
Specific Land use decisions made prior to the
a rovalnof local
g
this
General Plan expresses the effort to Supp ort.
businesses and a desire to be cooperative and encourages supe
I_g, 3. CITY IMAGE
a. MASTER PLANED COMMUNITY
para: Chan
I_g, 3, a. First p a first para. to read: g
The original Master Plan concept for Diamond Bar has been tainted
a
by irrational and erroneous improper building ent
lied to the
However, the open space policy can still be app
within our City. The City has identified in
remaining properties nations that support
this General Plan policies and Land Use Designations
substantially less development, controlled and limited use of many
undeveloped sites. This increases property values by knowing the
limits of development. rhe image of Diamond Bar has been "Country
Living" and should be preserved as m
I_g, 3, a. ISSUE ANALYSIS: Change to read:
10
There iso a need t establish
to live reputation
rural atmosphere" without
city as a pleasurable Pacegovernment that endeavors to
smog, traffic, crime and a city q vacant commercial
preserve the natural open spaces. The remaining in a
parcels have been determined ease but reduces traffercial icleIt is
location that does not
a truly natural area with protection for its existing wildlife.
I-8 4. LOCAL VS REGIONAL NEED/SHORT - TERM VS. LONG-TERM SOLUTIONS
a. CIRCULATION
I-8 4, a. CIRCULATION Change this para to read:
Diamond Bar presently is plagued with a number of "short cuts" from
regional commuters during periods of freeway congestion. The City
should extend extensive efforts to seek solutions attackin the traffic
this
g
problem of over capacity residential traffic by local
problem head on. Diamond Bar must work with other issto free
and regional governments, State and Federal. The goal
up our local streets BEFORE ANY
MORE
so development
brings additional
traffic to the City. An i
(Continued from above)
A short term MORATORIUM of f ive ( 5 ) years will be placed on all
residential and commer 1 roadways such ent until as Grandreducedic is Ave. and
a level of �,C on major arterial
Diamond Bar Blvd. Local traffic
on Grand and Diamond Bar Blv can
be addressed by sig
A long term solution is to address the 57/60 freeway doublehdeckery
seeking a 4 lane reversible direction rout on top, uir,
or immediately adjacent to the existing freeway. This may req
the City of Industry to grant easements along with Los Angeles,
County utilizing a portion of the Diamond Bar, Golf Course adjacent
to the freeway.
Aggressive efforts should be made to lobby Federal and State uwall
bond issues, etc. As new lanes completed over time, it i
that doesn't become
relieve traffic, hopefully with a master p keeping commuter
obsolete by the time of completion. Therefore,
p g
traffic on the freeway as it was designed to be used.
E. LAND USE GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
I-9 Goal 1 Change this statement to read:
Maintain a land use mix consistent with the requirements of HUD as
shown by locations identified on the enclosed n aceUse MapEstablish
a balance to encourage preservation of op space. P .
policies with existing undeveloped parcels and require regulations
to prevent developers fromdestroying
troyi g our This NATUwill tentail rees ana
vegetation on hillsides and r
revision of the Hillside Management ordinance and creation of a
Tree Ordinance.
11
I-9 Objective 1.1 Keep as read:
I-9 E. STRATEGIES:
1.1.1 Replace STRATEGIES 1.1.1 to read:
a. Designate Hillside Residential (HR) for land with slopes
up to 15%. These in aToss ed on the Land Use
densityeas are ntof if 1Rural Hillside (RH)
Map. The maxim g
will be 1.0 dwelling units per 2.5 gross acres (1 du/2.
ac) . Slopes from 15% to 25% or more will be 1
. o dwelling
acres (1 du/5 ac.) The maximum
units per five (5) gross a
) Hor (�) and (RL) will be 25%
of the (R
grading on any The effort is to retain and not
of the natural terrain. ecological
disturb the visual contour and natural ications when any e of
environment. In these clathe rule applies and grading is
significant value exist, The tree ordinance will
limited. Also, (see tree Ord.)
enforce the 5 ft. grading drip line rule and identify
five major trees that the city will have as identified
Coastal Live Oak, Black Walnut, Sycamore,
protected,
Pepper, and Arroyo Willow.
This Rural Hillside (RH) designation is indicated on the
Land Use Map in this document. This c sebased environment of
on the
public's desire to preserve the open sp
parcels that are privately owned and under scrutiny of
being developed. They are the the SanBernardthin inoCounty
Estates" and all property along
Line south of Grand Ave. parallel to the ,country
Estates" and Diamond Ridge Development, further
t adjacent
to
portion of Diamond Bar at a p
the southern p ro erties have
to the 57 freeway. The logic GPAC onThese
Mappdated June 12,
been previously discussed by dated
1991 and revised February 29, 1992• (map
A buffer zone must nessretained
terrainSEA
and..theaccording
desire to
CEQUA. The rugged and retain
keep
the NATURAL en space ural for animal
ecorridors from being
existing P q s a y policy.Note that SEA 15
severed is re uire ortions of the "Back Country Estates",
does exist within p
within the City of Diamond Bar boundary.
pad is limited to a maximum of 25% every
Grading to make a firm
parcel. EXISTING LOTS OVER ONain E costal one ha1for pTeCRco t 1 LivelnOak,
of their natural peer and Roy
Sycamore, Walnut Pepper al Willow trees or riparian Habitat
or Blue Line is present on the parcel. The destruction of one of
the listed trees will not be permitted.
of the existing trees
Clustering of homes and working around any arce1 grading
listed above, is recommended. When rotes are on a ect the trees, beyond five
must be restricted to a location to p
12
(5) foot of the dripline.
I-9, STRATEGIES: Add the following:
No NEGATIVE DECLARAto Owork aground ll be rthese anted, rulesnor l wll 1 lbe
to find a means
permitted in a (RH), (RR) (DS) or lands designated as
Parks (PK)
lopment will be allowed to reach
No run-off from any deve
a blue line.
parcels with a single family dwelling
All existing P (Sphere of
currently in the City of Diamond Bar or in the ( p
Influence) will NOT be permitted to be subdivided toadd
a second or additional residential dwellings.
genou h in
includes all existing sites that are largeg
acreage that could possibly accommodate such an
additional dwelling.
All future,
subdivision maps of any kind for proposed developments currently in the City planing Department "in
the Pipeline" waiting for this General Plan to be
approved will not be processed further until the five
year moratorium has re been
lifted by traffic conditions
substantially being
I-9, STRATEGIES: 1.1.1,
C. Change to read:
5.0 dwelling units per gross acre (5 du/act. from 6.0
dwelling units per gross acre. 6 d_ u�a�• (Trimming the
number to fewer.structures)
I-9 STRATEGIES: 1.1.1,
d. Change to read:
apartment, Maximum
Designate townhouse, condominium, a p
density of 1:2.0 dwelling units per gross acre (121 du/ac)
credits will then be acceptable
vs. 16.0 du/ac. Zoning
at this lower density.
e to read:
I-9 STRATEGIES: 1.1.2 a• Change
Establish General Commercial (C) areas to provide for
retail service and commercial development for a General
Commercial classification. Areas with traffiroblems ngestare
ion
must not be approved until the traffic p
substantially improved, with the exception of Gateway
Corporate Center.
Maintain a floor area ratio (FAR) between .25 and 1.00.
and provide parking Buff icient to meet the needs of
abundant parking and reduce the overas fnecessaryeby
by increasing the amount of parking paces
10% more than existing standards.
13
Business development should be focused on the
co pl tfor
of Gateway Corporate Center as the prime
local residents and commuter traffic to be attracted to.
Gateway Corporate Center should be established as the
only location to attract shoppers and business to the
area from the freeway, such as restaurants, retail
shopping activity form out of town travelers and
commuters.
An increase of parking facilities and landscaping per
square foot
b °f0%°or space per and put intoourbuilding
ordinancesstructure
over°the
increase y 1
current standards.
Effort should be dedicated to reduce additional traffic
into Diamond Bar. Additional building of strip -malls or
shopping centers should be limited to those that provide
a relief to ingress and egress, parking and parking lot
congestion etc. Strip and Mini -malls should not be
developed or expanded until its track record has been
established to show a 90% occupancy rate
to enforce
Improvements or face lifting is an opportunity
more stringent requirements to eliminate traffic or other
existing conditions.
No additional shopping center(s) should be added to
Diamond Bar within the existing borders incl. (Sphere of
ther
Influence). However, it may be dP mona 1 RowlandeHeights
areas such as City of Industry,
cial sites in
etc. to at are readily°available to bee
gain access additional used to decrease
areas th
traffic or other problems.
A separation of retail from residential must be
maintained by a substantial amount of di
ance or natural
physical separation ie. Major street, parks and natural
terrain visibility to reduce if not add additional noise
and air pollution etc.
STATEMENT: (see noise levels section G.-1 charts, the
"Pink Book via.Don Schad. it is accurate) Noise levels
isting levels as
should be Dec. 1990 than
neral Plan Book End. r
End aEngrg
11/D 5
study)
one goal should be to attract commuters from the freeway
specifically to Gateway Corporate Center with easy
freeway egress and ingress as well have availability for
convenient access by local residences, but not to
encourage freeway commuters to create more congestion for
our local resident's who already have congested traffic
conditions.
No additional shopping center should be
established
within today's existing boundaries. All planing must be
considerate of the potential of additional crime,
graffiti and air pollution and traffic congestion.
14
I-10
I-10
STRATEGIES:
Areas designated as Open Space (OS) does not permit
residential or commercial development.rotected land resources for
maintained as dedicated and p
the utilization of recreation and education to the
citizenry as a whole and their aesthetic NATURAL
tebeauty
ct the
and pleasure.
Efforts tr es and ill be extended animal t life. This
natural vegitation
designation includes all parcels which have previous map
or deed or CC&R's restrictions or designated to be
parklands for public use.
These restrictions cannot be removed until approved by a
vote of the people at a major election. No grading will
be permitted except to for improvements for facilities,
sanitary
and public enjoyment, such as club house,
facilities, property maintenance facilities museumsor
historical purposes or safeguard public health and
safety. Public parking facilities, if any, will be
limited pending a balanced use and accessibility under
strict conditions to prevent destruction of the natural
environment and terrain.
1.1.5. Change to read:
STRATEGIES:
Planned Development (PD) is a designation given to
parcel(s) that can be demonstrated to be more beneficial
to the City and general public than when developed
individually. All Planned Development (PD) or Specific
Plan (SP) must be brought before the City Council after
residents have been notified within a two (2) mile radius
and public hearings are delivered by certified mail 90
days prior to heaings. They will be approved only after
a public vote at a major election as a separate item on
the ballot.
1.1.7 Change to read:
I-10 STRATEGIES: Add the following:
1. Public notice in layman's language, must be given by
certified mailing within forty-five (45) days to inform
the citizens about details of any development in the City
of Diamond Bar. Master Plan (MP)
ninety (90) day notice, then a fourty-five (45) day
mile
notice, then a two week notice with a three (3 )
radius, paid by the developers fees for each the Planning
Commission Hearings and the City Council Hearings.
2. A massive informative campaign is to be conducted to
inform the public for projects with parcels over five (5)
acres with the above issue No. 1. paid by developer's
fees.
15
3. Planning Commission and City Council Hearings he residents
noticed (separate notices for
us each)
residents
within a three mile (3 mile)uch
of adjacent city or copomonanty eSidenL or Rowland Heights setc.sand
as City of Industry,
paid by the developer.
major election advisory election during th
after a ma
4, Only ed election where the voters have
scheduled next regularly h . land use restrictions
will changes approved by vote, i for any land uses,
or zone changes be permitted anges or removed from Land Use
annexation, modified
Classification including deed, map or CC&R restrictions.
I -lo STRATEGIES: 1.1.8. Delete this item: It is included above.
I-11 STRATEGIES: 1.1.9. Replace to read:
is the designation given to Tres
Agricultural (AG) (sphere of influence).
Hermanos Ranch and Tonner Canyon( P
with knowledge that Tres Herman if is Plan os has been s(SP) a at°the
Planned Development (PD) the
appropriate time this proposal will be heard by
Planning Commission, City Councilhen be submitted for
, t
a decisive vote during the next major election and
all deeds, map
approved by the people. However, re -
restrictions will be ma
al determination at the public hearing
evaluated and
and advisory public election.
remain as Agricultural (AG) or Open
Tonner Canyon is to rgreater restrictions to
Space (OS) which ever has the
permit the current activities at the Firestone Boy Scouts
to the same level No destruction has existed over
to htake nplace with
presently exist. cal balance as
the environment, habitat and ecological the SEA 15
recognition in the purposes established by AG it
it bears. within the designation of
designationricultural only to the extent it has been
will permit ag the NATURAL
used in the past with respect to maintaining
Protection of
ecological factors that presently enforced,
the natural resources should be aggressively protect
honoring P
and respecting the SEA 15 designation to
the NATURAL ecological balance and environment.
J
Toa
nner Cn on includin a LuQu
ce
transportation. Any activities that disrupts the l air
are forbidden ie. No level,
of the canyon
pollution, tree damage or removal and
light
pollution, use such as cattle grazing should be
grading. Existing resently used.
restricted to the areas and intensity p
STATEMENT: Note: The Open Space (OS) definition given
the July 14, 1992 Draft General Planallow
ins
residential uses of one structure p parcel.
16
designation IS NOT to be given to Tonner Canyon or the
Sphere of Influence under our new recommendations.
Sandstone Canyon must retain all its original map, deed
and CC&R restitutions and be designated as Open Space
(OS) .
I-11 OBJECTIVES 1.2. Replace to read:
Preserve and or improve existing residential
neighborhoods by preventing increased traffic, noise
levels, air pollution, criminal activities and graffiti.
I-11 STRATEGIES: 1.2.2. Change to read:
Pursue a common identifiable continuity with
complementary structures in neighborhoods that are
pleasing and contiguous to the City's statement of
"Country Living" ie. openness, less congested parking,
color schemes and architectural design.
I-11 STRATEGIES: 1.2.3. Change to read:
Maintain and improve the integrity of existing
neighborhoods by resolving traffic problems, preventing
through traffic and keeping culdisacs closed, and develop
with less need for new roadways. Discourage and regulate
through traffic in neighborhoods or through our city,
such as the Chino Hills residents taking a "short cut".
Work to resolve the our local traffic problem by keeping
freeway traffic on the freeway.
I-11 STRATEGIES: 1.2.4. Change to read:
Maintain residential areas to protect NATURAL resources
and hillsides. An emphasis is to be place on NATURAL
hillsides, ridgelines and canyons to remain in their
existing un -disturbed state. Existing views will not be
disturbed per a more stringent hillside slope density
guideline and Tree Ordinance.
I-11 STRATEGIES: 1.2.4 a. Change to read:
Development in hillside areas should be designed with
minimal grading to be compatible with existing natural
areas, compatible to the extent of not removing over 75
% of the natural existing trees and vegetation not to
disturb the views of existing developments, aesthetically
pleasing by minimizing rooflines and -obstructions.
I-11 STRATEGIES: 1.2.4. Add the following:
Actively develop a Tree Ordinance to protect the
California Oak, Black Walnut, Sycamore, Pepper and Arroyo
17
Willow trees and natural Chaparral, and riparian
woodlands for aesthetic reasons and protection of soils
created by water run-off and ground stability.
Hillside (RH) and (RR) or those parcels within canyons
and ridgeline with heavily wooded areas should retain
their existing natural terrain and remain undisturbed.
Protection of existing views of adjacent residents must
be preserved. No structure will visually obstruct or
disrupt the natural view of another existing development.
I-11 STRATEGIES: 1.2.4. Change to read:
Earthwork on hillsides areas shall not destroy the
natural terrain except for the pad which is to be limited
to 25% of the parcel. Contour grading may be used,
however, it is also limited to only 25% of the parcel for
construction.
Compacted pads, and graded parcels, street improvements
and other ground work must be of a substantial
improvement over existing compaction standards to ward
off the many land movements plaguing our City in previous
developments. Developers must provide a twenty (20) year
guarantee in a bonding pool or sufficient insurance to
provide a financial reimbursment against land slippage
and compaction problems.
I-11 STRATEGIES: 1.2.4 b. Change to read:
Grading on any parcel with existing trees and vegetation
listed that contain any Coastal Live Oak, Black Walnut,
Sycamore, Pepper and Arroyo Willow, with a slope of 15
deg. or less will be restricted to grading only 25% of
any portion original of the parcels. Parcels with a
slope from 15 deg. to 25 deg. will permit only 10%
grading on any parcel, including tops of ridgelines and
where any trees are to be removed. Trees must remain to
enhance the natural atmosphere, views and aesthetics.
I-11, 1.2.5 Replace to read:
Residential areas are required to be of the same
character as the existing neighborhood in visual
appearance and distinctiveness to retain a continuity and
community atmosphere. When two or more unlike
neighborhoods are adjacent, the new development will use
the Land Use designation of the one with the lowest
density. A variance will be permitted after a public
hearing permiting lowering the density of the HIGHEST
neighboring density by 20%. When conditions prevail and
no trees are to be removed and slope density is
sufficiently adhered to.
I-11 STRATEGIES: 1.2.7. Replace to read:
is
As identified on the Land Use map in this General Plan,
the low and moderate cost housing sites are .available,
including those with provisions for HUD development. (
Requirement of State Law) (Also see Housing Goals,
Objectives, and Strategies in this document)
I-11 STRATEGIES: XXXXX Insert to read:
HiIlside areas with a slope of less than 15% should be one dwelling
unit per acre 1 du/acre. Over 15% to 25% be one dwelling unit per
five (5) acres. Grading on any slope over 15% will be allowed on
29% of the lot and lots with 25% slope grading will be limited to
15% of the total parcel. Ridgelines will be preserved, no grading
will be allowed or developing on these ridgelines.
I-11 STRATEGIES: Add to read:
Clustering of homes is recommended to design around
restrictions. However, NO density credit will be given
to the overall land density calculations. Clustering is
calculated by using only the land that has NO deed or map
restrictions or CC&R limitations. When restrictions are
on the parcel(s) see example below.
EXAMPLE: A ten (10) acre parcel containing four (4) acres of
restricted building will permit use of only six (6) acres
for development. The other portion is to be dedicated as
Open Space (OS). Both Commercial and residential zoning
requirements must be met using the useable six (6) acres.
The restricted four ( 4 ) acres are not to be calculated or
built upon. Clustering should be utilized to develop on
the usable six (6) acres to make a more desirable and
compatible site.
In this example if twenty (20) homes are planned, the
remaining six (6) acres will calculates to be .30 acres
per parcel, leaving 13,000 sq. ft. lots. The proportional
non graded area of four (4) acres must remain as
dedicated restricted property.
When trees are on any portion of the site, a maximum of
25% of the site is permitted to be graded. (See the
following calculations for Single Family Dwellings (SFD)
19
Formula for pad size when 25% grading rule applies
1.0 acre = 43,560 sq. ft.
1/2 acre = 21,780 sq. ft.
1/4 acre = 10,890 sq. ft.
6 lots/acre = 7,260 sq. ft. lots. At 25% grading = 1,850 pad. 501x37'
5 lots/acre = 8,712 sq. ft. lots. At 25% grading = 2,178 pad. 50'x43.56'
4 lots/acre = 10,890 sq. ft. lots. At 25% grading = 2,722.5 pad. 50x55.45'
3 lots/acre = 14,520 sq. ft. lots. At 25% grading = 3,630 pad. 50'x72.60'
2 lots/acre = 21,780 sq. ft. lots. At 25% grading = 5,445 pad. 50'x107.90'
1 lot/ acre = 43,560 sq. ft. lot At 25% grading = 10,890 pad 50'x215.80'
.5 lot/acre = 87,120 sq. ft. lot At 25% grading = 27,780 pad 50'x435,60'
3]
I-11 STRATEGIES: 1.2.8. Delete a. & b. and replace to read:
Provide density bonuses to a maximum of 15% for
developments that have no existing designated rare trees
and not in an area designated as (RR), (RH) (RIM), (OS)
(PD) (MP) or utilizing one of the following density
credits listed below:
a. housing designed for senior citizens, disabled or full
time college students with limited incomes and 15% of the
units are at affordable rates.
b. exemplary design and significant amenities beyond minimun
requirements" that benefit the City and neighborhood.
C. new housing for low or moderate income households that
provide open space recreational activities designated for
their exclusive and private use.
d. Change to read:
No density credits will be granted to land that has been
designated as Open Space (OS).
e. No density credits will be granted for land transfers.
f. when a developer dedicates land to the City, Agency or
Non -Profit Conservancy for public use, with provisions to
maintain the parcel(s) by the developer, home owner
association or responsible party bearing no financial
burden on the City.
g. When land is dedicated as permanent Open Space (OS) and
substantial improvements have been performed by the
developer, providing the property has no previously
recorded deed or map restrictions or classified on the
Land Use Map in this document as Open Space.
I-12 STRATEGIES: 1.2.9, b. Replace to read:
Property rights will NOT be transferable to another site, in
exchange for development credits within the City. Each site must be
developed within its own confines to meet the expectations of
existing neighbors. This eliminates conflicts of existing
residents who may have been told restrictions have been placed on
adjacent parcels and expect no development will occur. Thus,
preserving the remaining open space land. (ie. Tonner Canyon and
the Pathfinder Homeowner association controversy)
COMMENT: This will eliminate mis-conceptions that would involve
the City. Keep the City out of the land development business!
This will assure those lands with map, deed restrictions and CC&R's
are utilized as originally designated on deeds or parcel maps etc.
I-13 STRATEGIES: 1.2.9 Replace to read: (continued from above)
21
Density calculations for development proposals offering significant
community amenities may NOT include land previously designed as
open space or restricted at any time in the future. No transfer of
development rights will be permitted under any condition. Each
developer must develop their own parcel on it's own merits. If
there is a need to transfer land, it is the developer's
responsibility to negotiate the transaction and each sale carrying
its own merits.
I-12 1.3 OBJECTIVE Replace to read:
As shown on the existing Land Use Map adequate land has been set
aside and designated for retail, services, commercial, professional
services, and other employment -generating establishments. This
land has been located and found sufficient to meet the City's needs
until build -out and should sustain our City until further growth is
necessary such as a possible annexation of other adjacent areas.
No plans are present to Annex Tonner Canyon of SEA 15 as they are
to be preserved for their ecological values.
It is a goal to actively pursue 95% occupancy of the existing of
structures and available graded parcels prior to granting further
development of sites that will add to the vacancy problem.
(Note this does not say "to designate," but to identify these
parcels in the General Plan process to become included on the map
before the plan goes to rest!)
I-12 Strategies
I-12, 1.3.1 Replace to read:
Sales tax leakage out of Diamond Bar to other nearby
communities should be addressed to identify the City's
fair share by a comprehensive study of surrounding
neighborhoods to determine how Diamond Bar can be
competitive, the types of businesses to be desirous and
complement those businesses. Developer's fees should
cover the cost of this study.
I-12, 1.3.1 a.and b. Replace:
I-12, 1.3.2 Change to read:
Not needed if above applies,
Work with the development of business to fully understand
the reasons and strategy of business sites that will
serve the needs of the citizens desire to NOT attract
more traffic congestion, or transient type commuters. Do
not encourage development that is dependent of freeway
visibility to attract freeway commuters except that which
already exists such as Gateway Corporate Center, a center
specifically designed to take advantage of freeway
visibility. Work with the appropriate agencies to
enhance traffic flow to Gateway Corporate Center to
alleviate local traffic congestion.
22
I-12, 1.3.2 a. Delete this statement:
I-12, 1.3.3 and a. Change to read:
After a complete study has been made and location have been
determined as shown on the Land Use Map, (prior to the adoption of
this General Plan) the citizens, local merchants, major retailers
and businesses of Diamond Bar have a guide to identify what sites
are available and best suited for their businesses. See Land Use
Map. (These sites must be on the map prior to adoption of this
General Plan)
I-12, 1.3.3 a. Eliminate:
(This is redundant if the above is adopted. If this statement is
not eliminated, spell out each and every setting and limits
required.)
I-12, 1.3.4 Eliminate: (Redundant after the above study).
I-12, 1.3.5, a. Eliminate:
I-12, 1.3.5 b. Change to read:
Gateway Corporate Center should be a maximum of six (6)
stories. including buildings along Copely and Valley
Vista Dr. to protect the homes and condos above the site
and limit excessive traffic on Grand and Golden Springs
Blvd.
I-13, 1.3.5, c.
I-13, 1.3.5, d.
Keep as read:
Keep as read:
I-13, 1.3.6 Delete in total:
I-12, OBJECTIVE: 1.4 Keep as read:
STRATEGIES:
I-13, STRATEGIES: 1.4.1 Keep as read:
I-13, STRATEGIES: 1.4.2 Replace to read:
Promote acquisition of funds from State, Federal and developers
fees for development of parks and open space throughout the City to
reach a desirous community park facilities at a ratio of five (5)
acres per 1,000 residents.
I-13, STRATEGIES: 1.4.3 Replace to read:
Ensure that when a public agency determines land is no longer
needed, the City of Diamond Bar has first option to acquire it as
well as extend the offer to other agencies for public use. When
the City desires to purchase this land, the City must publicly
promote the parcel(s) that are available to other agencies or
23
Conservancies for acquisition and let it be known if the City
desires to maintain the land or offer it to those other agencies.
This offer then may be available to a private party in an outright
purchase. An example is the WVWD four acres in the South Pointe
Master Plan is how this should have have been done.
I-13 STRATEGIES: 1.1.4 Change to read:
As indicated on the Land Use Map in this document, the centralized
site for a civic/multi-purpose community center has ben selected.
This site will be designed to accommodate community
recreation,civic business meetings and city business etc.
I-14, STRATEGIES: OBJECTIVE: 1.5 Leave as is:
I-14, STRATEGIES: 1.5.1 Leave as is:
I-14, STRATEGIES: 1.5.2 Lands marked on the Land Use Map are to
be preserved as Open Space. see page ()
a. Replace to read:
Aggressively seek State and Federal monies and other means,
including formulating developers' fees to purchase Open Space
(OS) not already protected by restrictions. Protect these
areas and dedicate them to public use as Open Space (OS).
Land with restrictions and options should convert to Open
Space (OS) or parkland and must be aggressively pursued.
b. Replace to read:
Limit the need for landscape districts to areas that can be
maintained at very minimun maintenance cost. Lighting
Districts should be paid by developers, if the lighting is
needed, such as parks, streets etc. Limit the need to safety
requirements and practical use vs. attempting to maintain a
country dark atmosphere ie. "Country Estates"
c. Replace to read:
Investigate the need for a maintenance district for privately -
owned , slope area that are along or visible from major
highways. All future development are to contribute to this
fund and be responsible for this element becoming a part of
their own development
I-14, OBJECTIVE 1.6 Keep as written:
I-14, OBJECTIVE: 1.6.1 ?
I-14, OBJECTIVE: 1.6.2 ?
I-14, OBJECTIVE: 1.6.3 ? Eliminate (Tonner Canyon) ?
I-14, OBJECTIVE: 1.6.4 ? Tres Hermanos
I-14, OBJECTIVE: 1.6.5 Totally eliminate, no transfer of density
24
rights should be permitted.
I-15, OBJECTIVE: 1.6.5 Keep as written: (Encourage Clustering)
but add: ... equestrian trails, animal corridors and the
L.A. County Regional Trails System.
I-15,
OBJECTIVE:
1.6.6,
a. Keep as written:
I-15,
OBJECTIVE:
1.6.6,
b. Keep as written:
I-15,
OBJECTIVE:
1.7 Keep as written:
I-15,
STRATEGIES:
1.7.1
Keep as written:
I-15,
STRATEGIES:
1/7/2
Replace to read:
Extend greater effort to keep the public well informed of all
land uses, civic activities, especially the final results to
achieve greater knowledge to the public by expounding on the
legal notice method being required by the basic legal
requirements.
a. Establish 6 new permanent locations to post public notices, not
just the minimum 72 hour notice, but seven days (7) in advance. To
advertise in layman's language the various Commission's and
specifically every Planning Commission and City Council hearings.
To establish and retain the same dates and times, however don't'
Continue the session to another date before the regularly scheduled
hearing date, unless a specific schedule has been determined three
(3) months in advance. COMMENT: This is the reason the citizens
have no trust in what has been going on in Diamond Bar.
b. ADD TO THIS STATEMENT: ...and a descriptive (in layman'
language) realistic description of Ordinances, land
development projects that relate to the people who are not
land engineers and a parcel map of specific sites.
ADD TO THIS SECTION:
C. Great effort should be extended to keep the public aware of
the issues on land development, including pre hearings and
post hearings. These costs should be paid by developer's
fees.
I-15, STRATEGIES: 1.7.3. ?
I-15, STRATEGIES: 1.7.4 ?
I-16, GOAL. 2 Keep as written:
I-16, OBJECTIVE 2.1 ?
25
I-16,
STRATEGIES: 2.1.1
Keep as written:
I-16,
STRATEGIES: 2.1.1
a. Replace to read:
a.
Prior to approving new development or the intensification of
2.2.4
existing development
within the City of Diamond Bar, a FULL
2.3
complete EIR must be
submitted on all development larger than
one single family dwelling unit, a single multi -complex or
commercial buildings
of over 10,000 sq. ft. Any grading to
prepare sites of over 2,500 sq. ft. or movement of 1,000 cu.
ft. of dirt will require a FULL complete EIR.
b.
Keep as written, but
ADD that a full EIR is required on each
project and complete
review will be required on each phase of
development.
I-16,
STRATEGIES: 2.1.2
Keep as written.
I-16,
STRATEGIES: 2.1.3
Change to read:
Ensure that time -specific issues are evaluated as part of the
review of new development and intensification of existing
development. ie. example. "For example, it is mandatory that prior
to approval of a project that affects Biological assessments in any
way, affects traffic circulation, or increased density of an
existing Land Use designation or zone change, air or noise
pollution a Full EIR must be submitted within 90 days of scheduling
public hearings.
I-16, OBJECTIVE 2.2 Add to this statement:
...and lessens traffic congestion.
I-16, STRATEGIES: 2.2.1 Replace to read:
New development may or may not be completely compatible with
surrounding land uses as a current existing condition. However, a
visual blend of aesthetics and traffic flow must be priorities to
facilitate a smooth transition. Efforts are to be extended to
blend into, not to match the existing conditions, therefore not
restricting the developer. However, when issues are evident and
must be resolved, priority must be placed on maintaining Open
Space, a reduction of traffic problems, and providing less density
over adjacent densities by substantial amounts (15% to 25%). When
trees and vegitation are part of the consideration, the guidelines
in slope density provided in this General Plan must be applied.
I-16,
STRATEGIES:
2.2.2
I-17,
STRATEGIES:
2.2.3
I-17,
STRATEGIES:
2.2.4
I-17,
OBJECTIVES:
2.3
I-17,
STRATEGIES:
Keep as written.
Keep as written.
Keep as written. (views)
Keep as written.
26
2.3.1 Keep as written.
2.3.2 Keep as written.
1-17, GOAL 3 Keep as written.
I-17, OBJECTIVES: 3.1
I-17, STRATEGIES: 3.1.1 Keep as is:
I-17, STRATEGIES: 3.1.2 Add to this statement:
Keep and maintain bicycle and riding trails and corridors on the
streets of Diamond Bar, specifically Diamond Bar Blvd. and Grand
Ave.
I-17, STRATEGIES: 3.1.3 ? (landscape maintenance districts)
I-17, STRATEGIES: 3.1.4 Change to read:
Actively pursue programs for fine art and Biological Science
projects to be displayed throughout the city as part of an
educational program. Seek funds and a site to establish a science
museum of natural history to take advantage of the natural
biological environment in and around Diamond Bar.
I-17, STRATEGIES: 3.1.5 Keep as written:
I-18, STRATEGIES: 3.2 Replace to read as a shortened version:
Ensure that new development, that brings an increase in population
is commensurate with the reduction of traffic, housing density to
yield a pleasant and improved community to return to the "bedroom"
residential area vs. a transient, industrial congested City image.
It may not be required of Diamond Bar to have a complete shopping
complex to meet all needs as ample centers are readily available in
adjacent cities at competitive prices and service.
I-18, STRATEGIES:
3.2.1 Keep as written, but eliminate "Where appropriate",
This should be spelled out now if left in!
I-18, STRATEGIES: 3.2.2 Keep as written:
I-18, STRATEGIES: 3.2.3 ? What does "provide wide open areas
with informal clusters of trees, defined by split -rail" mean?
I-18, STRATEGIES: 3.2.4 Keep as written:
I-18, STRATEGIES: 3.2.4 a, b, c, d. Keep as written:
I-18, STRATEGIES: 3.2.5 Keep as written:
I-18, STRATEGIES: 3.2.6 Add to this statement:
27
The separation of commercial and residential is of substantial
distance, 1,000 feet or more or with a obstacle, such as a park,
major street and obstacle equaling the same distance. That noise
levels are not increased in these locations beyond previous levels.
I-19, STRATEGIES: 3.2.7 ?
I-19, STRATEGIES: 3.2.8 Replace to read:
Actively pursue requirements that all overhead utility lines on all
new development and roadway improvements be underground.
I-19, STRATEGIES: 3.2.9 Replaced to read:
Create a new Hillside Management Ordinance and create a Tree
Ordinance stipulating in detail more control of conditions such as
grading and preservation of existing natural wooded areas in and
around our City. Establish a program to preserve their historical
significance and increase beautification and awareness of their
value in our environment. Trees to be included are: Coastal Live
Oak, Black Walnut, Sycamore, Pepper and Willow before we reach a
point of their extinction.
All trees of a homeowner's preference should be valued whether the
tree is as Diamonb Bar protected tree or not.
I-19, OBJECTIVE 3.3 Replace to read:
Protect the natural hillside areas and the visual view of highly
wooded forests.
I-19, STRATEGIES: 3.3.1 Replace to read:
Preserve the remaining relents of our natural environment, rolling
hills, canyons and heavily wooded forrest of historical trees.
Restrict the urbanization to working around the environment by
enforcing strict Tree Ordinance and a Hillside Management
Ordinance.
I-19, STRATEGIES: 3.3.2 Keep as written:
I-19, STRATEGIES: 3.3.3 Enforce more stringent development codes
to insure development regulations do not destroy the natural land
contours.
I-19, STRATEGIES: 3.3.4 Limit grading to ----see previous
statement.
I-19, STRATEGIES: 3.3.5 Development should conform to the
natural landscape as described above. Landform grading will only
be permitted on small percentage of the parcel, limited to place
the percent necessary for the pad, as required above.
a. Foliage used in planting must be draught tolerant and natural
species to the area. Because drought tolerant foliage is not fire
resistant, care and discrimination should be given to it's use.
28
However, it may be wise to use fire resistant foliage where there
is a possible fire hazard.
b. Delete as it is irrelevant. Replace to read:
All grading and landscaping should retain as many of the original
trees and natural vegitation as possible, taking care to not remove
trees on the Diamond Bar Tree List.
I-20, GOAL 4. Replace to read: "Maintain long-term local and
regional perspective of land use set forth in this document to
enhance the quality of life for Diamond Bar residents"
I-20, OBJECTIVES:
Promote and cooperate in efforts to provide a land use and
transportation planing program that reduces traffic congestion
within our City:
I-20 STRATEGIES: 4.1.1 Keep as written:
I-20, STRATEGIES: 4.1.2 Keep as written:
I-20, STRATEGIES: 4.1.3 Keep as written:
I-20, OBJECTIVE: 4.2 Preserve the sensitive environmental areas,
Tanner Canyon, Sandstone Canyon, Sycamore Canyon and Upper Sycamore
Canyon, plus other area such as SEA 15 in total ie. "Back Country
Estates" for its natural hillsides, highly vegetated forests, rare
trees and animal habitat. To pursue possible annexation of
surrounding area that may increase our revenue, such as
I-20, STRATEGIES: 4.2.1 Replace to read:
Seek annexation of adjacent areas such as for financial
revenue. However, Tanner Canyon in our area of Influence is to be
preserved for its significant ecological natural area and habitat.
When it can be demonstrated by a vote of the people at a major
election and findings can be made the following should be
considered at that time.
I-20, STRATEGIES: 4.2.2 Replace the following a, b. c. & d.
to read:
I-20, STRATEGIES: 4.2.1
a. Desire and compatibility exists with the Majority of
citizens in Diamond Bar, determined by a advisory
vote of the people at a major election.
b. The proposed annexation is consistent with the goals and
objectives of the General Plan.
C. Significant benefits to be derived by the City are
received and our open space policy is not destroyed or
transferred.
►lt
d. When the proposed area of annexation does not create a
negative economic or social impact on Diamond Bar.
e. When traffic conditions are reduced to level C on the
streets of Diamond Bar. A roadway through Tonner Canyon
is not to be calculated in the reason for annexating this
area, as it has not been determined if this is the only
solution. Only after the 57/60 freeway has been
redesigned and traffic is reduced to a acceptable level
in our City, should the roadway through Tonner Canyon be
considered.
If and when a decision to construct a roadway through
Tonner canyon, it should not have any exits into the
canyon or be interconnected to another roadway within the
canyon. The reason is to prevent development, smog,
noise, lights and environmental impact factors that will
destroy the canyon.
30
RE SUBMITTAL OF ISSUES
June 30, 1993
These following issues have not been responded to in full by the
City Council and Staff.
Previously dated June 7, 1993 by Tom Van Winkle
General Plan Issues to be discussed. The General Plan should
reflect the following policies and be reinforced by appropriate
strategies.
LAND USE
1. Every development is required to submit a full Environmental
Impact Report (EIR) ie. Commercial, multi -unit, residential
subdivision or rezoning such as: Old Post office site, Yellow
Brick Project, Hospital, JCC Project, residential subdivision...
2. A Negative Declaration will not be acceptable by this City.
3. Recognize and support legal conservancies such as Tonner
Canyon Wilderness Conservancy, assist and actively pursue monies
from State, Federal and local agencies to buy, preserve and
maintain the canyons and open space lands in and around Diamond
Bar. Protection of trees, vegitation and wildlife in the canyons
and ridge lines should be a priority over development in those
areas. This also includes a mandatory honoring and respect for the
preservation of SEA 15 according to the reasons stipulated in the
establishment of this ecological sensitive area.
4. Enforce and maintain all parcel map and deed restrictions on
all parkland and open space and undeveloped properties that have
been recorded and exist presently or prior to cityhood. All CC&R's
that appear on deeds are to be dealt with separately. If any doubt
in resolving any of the map or deed restrictions or CC&R issues,
they should be discussed before City Council hearings as a separate
issue with a priority of keeping an open space environment. An
advisory election may be necessary to resolve some issues of great
controversy.
5. A Rural Hillside (RH) designation must be included on the maps
and tables for consistency before the General Plan is approved.
Add into the General Plan the Rural Hillside (RH) category to
reflect 1 DU/2.5 acres in significant ecological areas, heavily
wooded areas, and parcels with slopes of fifteen percent (15%) or
more. ie. Tonner Canyon, Sandstone Canyon, Sycamore and SEA 15.
TRAFFIC
6. Address traffic as a complete issue by incorporating
statements dealing with regional as well as local issues. ie. The
effect of the Metrolink at Brea Canyon & Currier Rd. in relation to
31
the proposed project in Sandstone Canyon. The General Plan must
address other projects outside our City that will affect our City.
7. The General Plan must state our approach to a regional
solution to the 57/60 freeway interchange. In addressing Tonner
Canyon roadway, the General Plan does not have specific terminolggy'
to define issues such as what "Environmentally Safe" means. The
report submitted by Mr. Schafer, begins to offer meanings to these
different terms, however more work needs to be given to this topic
to define the issue more completely. See attachment "A".
8. The General Plan does not offer alternative options, goals or
strategies for a solutions to the regional or local traffic
problems, ie. alternate freeway improvements, double decker, rapid
transit, alternate routs for roadways like Soquel Canyon and
coordinating data and information with other Cities.
9. Implement strategies in the General Plan to encourage Mini -
mall and Corporate landlords to keep their building(s) fully
occupied by not allowing these landlords any further development
until their buildings are occupied, and by implementing programs to
assist small business to stay in business. This will increase the
City tax revenue base. Example: Albertson's shopping center,
owned by Arciero and Sons, is virtually empty, but they have plans
to continue developing in Diamond Bar. Why should Arciero & Sons
be permitted to develop in Diamond Bar when they can't maintain
full occupancy with what they have already developed.
10. Implement strategies to keep small businesses strong and
assist businesses in survival by modifying the existing Ordinances.
Laws should be made consistent, but not so restrictive to cause
financial hardship on businesses. ie. the sign ordinance, ingress
and egress traffic problems and ample parking facilities. These
issues can be addressed when remodeling or face lifting, etc.
Gary Neely's Issues
11. Gary Neely's report has some important and extremely valid
issues that need to be discussed and evaluated for their merit and
considered as options in the General Plan. We may or may not agree
fully with all issues, however they are substantial enough for
further discussion and consideration.
The following issues from Neeley's report, using the format of his
report and his page numbers and references are: (see Attachment B)
Page 2 under 1.1.1. f.
Higher learning and recreation uses for our community and lake
facility.
Page 5 under 1.5.1
Development rights and CC&R's etc. should or should not be
maintained are important issues: such as previously recorded
restrictions etc. on maps. This topic should be defined and the
32
General Plan reflect the City's position.
Page 6 under 2.1.1 c,d,e,f & g.
Tres Hermanos reservoir, higher educational facilities, Tonner
Canyon Roadway etc. in respect to pursuing correlation with Brea,
Chino Hills, Chino and the City of Industry need to be defined and
a determination made and stated in our General Plan for the benefit
of Diamond Bar.
Page 7 under 2.3.2 a.
Regarding funding mechanisms, developer fees and redevelopment
financing need additional discussion to form a firm decision and
statement.
Page 9 4.2.2
The topic of annexation of unincorporated areas west of Diamond Bar
to strengthen our tax base and broaden our potential for industrial
development is worthy of constructive discussion and consideration
for our General Plan.
Page 9 4.2.3
The topic of annexation of the City of Industry Urban Development
Agency, who owns acreage (Tres Hermanos), to promote further
opportunities to increase tax base needs, A complete discussion is
worthy of evaluation.
These few items including Gary Neely's report are especially useful
for our City to balance our Open Space Policy and City revenue
requirements as well as possible traffic solutions.
A line by line interpretation of the General Plan changes will be
submitted as soon as we receive your line by line strike out
version. We request ample time to study yours and submit ours for
discussion before the General Plan is approved.
GEN -K AN WGISU E.93
33
June 24, 1993
ADDENDUM
(June 29, 1993 Edition)
SECTION PAGE
Title Page
Acknowledgements
Introduction Pages 1 thru 19 (Entire section rerun because of
change in page numbering)
Land Use Element Pages I-2, I-12, I-16, I-17
Housing Element II -3 thru II -5, II -12, II -19, II -21, II -22 thru II -24
Resource Management III -3, III -12
Element
Public Health and Safety IV -11
Element
Circulation Element V-5, V-6, V-11, V-13, V-14
Public Services and VI -1, VI -2
Facilities
Figures: Figure 2 - Community Workshop
Figure 3 - Regional Location
Figure 4 - Significant Ecological Area
Figure I-1 - Existing Land Use
EMU,
GENERAL PLAN
City of Diamond Bar
June 29, 1993
General Plan Revision Program Consultants
Cotton/Beland/Associates, Inc.
Moore Iacofano Goltsman, Inc.
Austin -Faust Associates, Inc.
779.00
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Introduction ...................................... ....1
Land Use Element ...................................... I-1
Housing Element ...................................... II -1
Resource Management ........................ . ........ III -1
Public Health and Safety Element ......................... IV -1
Circulation Element .................................... V-1
Public Services and Facilities Element ...................... VI -1
Diamond Bar General Plan
June 29, 1993
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Gary G. Miller, Mayor
Phyllis E. Papen, Mayor Pro Tem
Gary H. Werner, Councilmember
John A. Forbing, Councilmember
Dexter MacBride, Councilmember
Terrence L. Belanger, City Manager
Jack Grothe, Commissioner
Bruce Flamembaum, Commissioner
Michael Li, Commissioner
CITY COUNCIL
Jay C. Kim (Former Councilmember)
Paul Horcher (Former Councilmember)
Don Nardella (Former Councilmember)
Robert L. Van Nort, (Former City Manager)
PLANNING COMMISSION
David Meyer, Chairman
Lydia Plunk, Vice Chairman
Dexter MacBride (Former Commissioner)
Grace Lin (Former Commissioner)
Clair Harmony (Former Commissioner)
David Schey (Former Commissioner)
Robert Kane (Former Commissioner)
GENERAL PLAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE
(Original Membership)
Karla Adams
Ed Layton
Carole Anderson
Dr. Jui-Kaung Lin
John Bennett
Catherine Lott
Ross Bilotta
Dexter MacBride
Paul Bordwell
Pat McGinn
Tim Brunridge
David Meyer
Karen Castleman
Steve Nelson
Todd Chavers
Khanh Nguyen
Noel Cunningham
Victor Ochoa
Jan Dabney
Cindee Quan
Rose Dam
Don Robertson
Bruce Flamembaum
Don Schad
Art Fritz
Kofi Sefa-Boakye
Gregory Gaffney
Mike Sment
Mike Goldenberg
Eric Stone
Clair Harmony
Donald Taylor
Greg Hummel
Kamal Trivedi
Shally Hsu
Steve Webb
Bob Kane
Ed Yogoobian
Joe Larutta
Diamond Bar General Plan.
June 29, 1993
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
(Continued)
STAFF
James DeStefano, Community Development Director
Irwin M. Kaplan, Planner Emeritus
Robert L. Searcy, Associate Planner
Ann J. Longo, Planning Technician
Marilyn C. Ortiz, Administrative Secretary
CONSULTANTS
Planning Network
DKS Associates
GENERAL PLAN WORKSHOP ATTENDANCE
Diamond Bar General Plan
June 29, 1993
WORKSHOP #
lA
113
2A
2B
3
NAME
Audrey Hamilton
X
Martha Bruske
X
X
X
Norman & Barbara Beach-Courchesne
X
X
X
Dexter MacBride
X
X
X
X
Billie Schwarz
X
Don Schad
X
X
X
X
X
David Conetta
X
X
X
Virginia Cylkowski
X
Wayne Block
X
X
Rod Lehman
X
Kay Lehman
X
X
Franklin Fong
X
X
James Roberts
X
X
X
Oscar Law
X
Randy Mang
X
Clair Harmony
X
Mike Graves
X
Linda Graves
X
X
David Craig
X
X
Clifford Craig
X
X
Diamond Bar General Plan
June 29, 1993
GENERAL PLAN WORKSOP ATENDANCE
(Continued)
Diamond Bar General Plan
June 29, 1993
WORKSHOP #
1A
1B
2A
2B
3
NAME
Gary Neely
X
X
X
X
X
Max Maxwell
X
X
X
X
X
Red Calkins
X
X
Theresa Zavala
X
X
Jack Bath
X
Don Gravdahl
X
X
Alice Houseworth
X
X
Ray Forrest
X
Cornelia & Ernest Pizzo
X
Frank Dursa
X
X
David Damaske
X
Gary Werner
X
Kathleen McCarthy
X
X
Marilyn Kieffer
X
X
Sherry Rogers
X
Eileen Ansari
X
Debbie & Bill Noyes
X
X
Ken Knolf
X
Sue Sisk
X
X
X
Tom Van Winkle
X
X
X
Ken Anderson
X
X
X
C.W. Heaton
X
Tina & Brian Worth
X
Harold Fraser
X
Rod Riepen
X
Mel Davis
X
Carolyn Elfelt
X
Tom Ortiz
X
X
W. Tinsman
X
Chuck Rogers
X
X
George Kingston
X
Philip Lo
X
X
Wilbur Smith
X
Todd Chavers
X
Beverly D'Errico
X
Diamond Bar General Plan
June 29, 1993
GENERAL PLAN WORKSOP ATENDANCE
(Continued)
NAME
WORKSHOP #
1A I
1B
2A
2B
3
Eric Stone
X
Jan C. Dabney
X
Dr. Dan Buffington
X
John Forbing
X
�,Vj Ina. (68-w/arL4, x
Diamond Bar General Plan
June 29, 1993
B Ar. PURPOSE
State planning law requires that each city and county adopt a comprehensive, long-term general plan for the
physical development of any lands in its jurisdiction, and for any land outside its boundaries which bears
relation to its land use planning activities. The General Plan must contain a statement of development
policies as well as diagrams and text that identify objectives, principals, standards, and plan proposals.
Seven elements are mandated by the Government Code:
• Land Use 0 Conservation
• Circulation • Safety
• Housing 0 Noise
• Open Space
In addition, Section 65303 of the Government Code provides that the plan may include any other elements
which, in the judgment of the legislative body, relate to the physical development of the City. The combination
of two or more mandated elements is permitted. Since many development and environmental issues are so
.....................
....................
.....................
interrelated, the Diamond Bar General Plan has been organized into five majef Plans i~l0�t is
B REQUIREMENTS
Government Code Section 65300 defines the General Plan as a long-term document. By projecting conditions
and needs into the future, the General Plan establishes a basis for evaluating current policy and providing
insight on future policy. State law requires that general plans be comprehensive, internally consistent, and
long-term.
• Comprehensive - A General Plan must be a comprehensive planning document, covering not
only the geographic area within the City boundaries, but also the areas adjacent to the City
that bear a reasonable relationship to City planning. Areas outside of the City limits may
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 2
INTRODUCTION
A. v5ION S'I'A'T`EiVIRI�'I`;
Diamond Bar General Plan tntroauction
1
June 29, 1993
Growth Management Plan
Regional Housing Needs Assessment
E I} COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION
State law requires citizen participation in the planning process. Recognizing the importance of organized
citizen input into the planning process, a General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC) was established by the
City Council. The GPAC represented a diversity of groups within the Diamond Bar community. At the
beginning of the General Plan process, numerous interviews were held with community leaders to provide
input to the GPAC regarding citizen concerns. Workshops were held with the GPAC on a regular basis
through the initial, formulation stages of the planning process.
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 4
include the actual sphere of influence, as adopted by the Local Agency Formation
Commission, or may be larger or different areas that create planning constraints on the City.
Not only must the General Plan be comprehensive in terms of area, it must also address all
of the relevant issues that legitimately face the jurisdiction (issue comprehensiveness).
• Internally Consistent - In 1975, the Legislature adopted the "internal consistency"
requirement, which means that all elements of the General Plan are equally important and
must be consistent with one another. In addition, diagrams within the General Plan must
be consistent with the text. If a new element is adopted or a part of the General Plan is
amended, the rest of the plan must be changed wherever inconsistencies result. Otherwise,
there will be confusion regarding community policies and standards.
In addition to internal consistency, the General Plan must be consistent with zoning -- a
primary tool in the implementation of the General Plan.
• Long -Term - One of the most important guidelines for General Plans is that they address
a broad enough horizon so that their strategies have sufficient time to be implemented, and
so that their vision is to meet the best long-term needs of the community. However, it is also
important to keep the timeframe with reasonable parameters, so the document will not
become dated too quickly, and so that its level of analysis can be more accurate, since the
error rate of projections tends to increase geometrically as time increases.
E CONSISTENCY WITH OTHER PLANNING PROCESSES
To be an effective guide for future development, the General Plan also must provide a framework for local
development that is consistent with the policies of appropriate Statewide and regional programs and
regulatory agencies. General Plans must comply with all requirements of the California Environmental
Quality Act, as amended. In addition, the following legislation or regulations directly affect Diamond Bar:
STATE-WIDE
• Surface Mining and Reclamation Act
• Alquist-Priolo Special Study Zones Act
• Sphere of Influence as regulated by the Local Agency Formation Commission
REGIONAL- South Coast Air Quality Management District
• South Coast Air Quality Management Plan
REGIONAL- Southern California Association of Governments
• Regional Mobility Plan
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
3
June 29, 1993
,WVO, s rr
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(continued)
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City of Diamond Bar General Plan Revision
Community Workshop 1A
April 21,1993
(Part Three of Three)
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 6
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Community Workshop 1A
April 21,1993
(Part One of Twee)
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City of Diamond Bar General Plan Revision
Community Workshop 1A
April 21,1993
(Part Two of Three)
Introduction
Diamond Bar General Plan 5
June 29, 1993
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City of Diamond Bar General Plan Revision
Community Workshop 1B
April 24,1993
(Part Three of Three)
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 8
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Community Workshop IB
April 24,1993
(Part one of Three)
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City of Diamond Bar General Plan Revision
Community Workshop 1B
April 24,1993
(Part Two of Three)
Introduction
Diamond Bar General Plan 7
June 29, 1993
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City of Diamond Bar General Plan Revision
Community Workshop 2A
April 28,1993
(Part Thee of Three)
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 10
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City of Diamond Bar General Plan Revision
Community Workshop 2A
April 28,1993
(Part One of Three)
City of Diamond Bar General Plan Revision
Community Workshop 2A
April 28,1993
(Part Two of Three)
Introduction
Diamond Bar General Plan o
June 29. 1993
Figure 2
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City of Diamond Bar General Plan Revision
Community Workshop 2B
May 1,1993
(Part Three of Three)
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 12
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Diamond Bar General Plan
June 29, 1993
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City of Diamond Bar General Plan Revision
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May 1,1993
(Part One of Three)
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City of Diamond Bar General Plan Revision
Community Workshop 2B
May 1,1993
(part Two of Three)
Introduction
F11J
I{ I CITY HISTORY
The City of Diamond Bar is located in the southeast corner of Los Angeles County, at the intersection of Los
Angeles, Orange, and San Bernardino counties. The City is situated at the intersection of Los Angeles,
Orange, and San Bernardino counties. The City is situated at the eastern end of the East San Gabriel Valley,
adjacent to both State Routes 57 and 60, as shown in Fxgue I.
Diamond Bar began as "Rancho * -0.5 ::.;: Nogales" (Ranch of the Walnut Trees) after a Spanish land grant in
1840. At its height, it was one of the largest cattle and walnut ranches in Southern California. Until the mid
20th century, this land was alternately combined and divided for various agricultural uses. In 1956, the
Christiana Oil Corporation and the Capital Oil Company, a subsidiary of the Transamerica Corporation,
purchased the Diamond Bar Ranch. A comprehensive development plan was prepared and approved for the
City, making it one of the first master -planned communities in the county.
During the 1960s, suburbanization spread eastward from the Los Angeles basin, stimulating local housing and
population growth as Diamond Bar's open hillsides were replaced by homes. Despite its mldol conception
as amasser -planned community, Diamond Bar has not grevwR-ate developed rn ai Orchestrated :inannel. as
;_diNid al t_....... .. efe built As a result of this development pattern, Diamond Bar today is primarily a
residential community. .
In 1Vlarch.;of.1 89 jure -of 1988, local
voters vdted deeided to incorporate and on April 18, 1989, Diamond Bar became Los Angeles County's 86th
city.
I MAJOR ISSUES
Planning for Diamond Bar is driven by three overriding issues which have a multitude of implications on the
City's future:
Land use (including open space)
Circulation
The economics of municipal financing.
While the following sections briefly describe each of these issues in more detail, it must be remembered that
they are inexorably woven together to form the fabric of the City. The listing cif issues.: xs no€: mrende i .
..
D1'IM% "
1. Land Use
Diamond Bar is primarily residential, which contributes to the overall rural atmosphere of the City. However,
this condition creates a lack of land to provide needed goods, services, and jobs, so that residents are forced
to drive to other communities to shop and work.
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 14
Figure 2
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City of Diamond Bar General Plan Revision
Community Workshop 3
May 12, 1993
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
13
June 29, 1993
While much of the City is already developed, there are still some undeveloped canyons and hillsides left in
the City that could represent significant open space resources for residents. Development eYeF the pikat 99
like of the hillside-. Many choices are needed as to if or how the City wants its remaining open land to
develop, especially land that may have been designed or restricted as open space by previous development
approvals through the County.
2. Circulation
Diamond Bar's location gives residents excellent access to regional resources. However, it also causes several
of its local streets to be used as freeway bypasses by commuter traffic. The City's leeation means that it
3. Economics
The residents of Diamond Bar presently enjoy a high quality of life, and have had relatively low costs
associated with high levels of service e:_.... it was .._ tAttent di}rmg tie tune :rt.was'an unincorporated
community. While Cityhood has brought local control, it also requires decisions on long-term financing of
local services and facilities. The largely residential nature of the City
means there are less local businesses and services for residents, which translates into less municipal revenues
from sales tax. In addition, many residents moved to Diamond Bar because of the historically low rate of
taxation under the county, and may resist increased or new costs associated with Cityhood.
...................
...................
The sphere of influence area, as ........
_ ..
.................................................
..................................................
potential fiscal resources i ter -fns v UCEt ttt y b� SdUi," of municipal revenues.
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 16
LOS ANGELES
COUNTY
WALNUT
WEST
COVINA
BREA
DIAMOND BAR CITY LIMITS
COUNTY BOUNDARY
UNJ
SPHERE OF INFLUENCE
r
GENERAL PLAN
Figure 3
Regional Location
G-. It DOCUMENT CONTENTS
The individual- f 6.Am , `= ed into the folie"ing
elements of the Diamond Bar General Plan have been
.plans"ggh, to address the variety of environmental issues that affect the City.
,
Diamond Bar
General Plan
State Mandated
General Plan Elements
Issues
Plan -fee Land Use E . I . e . 6 1 i . Out Land Use Land Use
Plan -fief Housing ET.titeut Housing Housing
Mae4ef-Resource Open Space Visual Resources
Management Conservation Biological Resources
eriret Park and Recreation
Water Resources
Energy Resources
Solid Waste
Mineral Resources
Agriculture
Plan for
Public Health
and Safety lemeut
..........
Plan for
Public Services and
Facilities Element
Safety Geology
Seismicity
Flooding
Fire Protection
Crime Protection
Emergency Services
Hazardous Materials
Air Quality
Noise
Noise
City Financing
Economic Development
pla" faf Circulation Circulation
Physies! Nlebgity Trails
. . . . ................ . . omcdt
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 18
fi
GENERAL PLAN
CURRENIIY APPROVED TANGS WIIi
"'�£` LOS ANGELES COUNTY SIGNINCNr
ECOLOGICAL AREA (SEA) 15
(Ionnef C onyoNC hlno I I ills
SOUGCE:
Lm Mgolos C—" Goneial
Plan. 54U.r. NECa ,IcN
Mew Gopal, 1970 Iwllll
enl —PI; a(W, Ro0xrgl
A—P,J, OepMmenl, inpocl
MwFys Suclbn, 1990.
Figure 4
jnificant Ecological Area
PM =
LIJ
NORTH 0 2D00 4000 bUUU FEEI
1. Residential Uses
Diamond Bar is comprised of rolling „hills and valleys between rapidly urbanizing freeway
corridors (west and north) and the laWly undisturbed SphBre'af lrtflu tt a feesE
an4 south). According to the California Department of Finance, the City has a total of 4:7,664
dwelling units that presently house a population of 332 5443 residents (4990)
The City is primarily residential, ,
Single family detached units represent the majority of the City's housing stock
:71.3 pef-eent). The Femaining 5,075 tinifs are attaelied (Mehi family) enits or "tabile hentes With
.
PeFeeaE Approximately " ipc of the single family units (5-peeen) are on large,
"rural" residential lots (one acre or more). In general, development densities are greater in the
flatter portions of the City (west), while larger lots predominate in the upland areas (east).
Along the 57 and 60 freeway corridors, single family lots are generally under. 10,000 square feet.
Detached single family developments in these areas have been built at 3-8 4-5. dwelling units per
acre, which represents over half of the City's entire housing stock. While single family
development predominates, multi -family projects can be found along Diamond Bar Boulevard,
south of Grand, and on Golden Spring Drive, north of Diamond Bar Boulevard. These
developments usually occupy small sites along major roadways, and are built at 10-20 units per
acre. The more dense multi -family projects (16 units per acre) are Uqually- older condominiums
approved by Los Angeles County prior to incorporation. This western half of the City generally
contains the older housing, built in the 1960s and early 70s. The City also has four apartment
complexes of moderate density (10.9-16.7 units per acre), with most located on major arterials
such as Diamond Bar Boulevard.
Typical of most affluent suburban communities in hillside areas; lot size, unit size, and unit price
in Diamond Bar generally increase with the degree of slope. East of Diamond Bar Boulevard,
development density (units/acre) decreases as lot size increases. "The Country," a private gate -
guarded community, contains 616 homes and occupies 855.5 acres along and just west of the ridge
separating the City from Tonner Canyon. Here, lots may be several acres or more, depending on
the severity of the slope.
2. Non -Residential Uses
.....................
Non-residential uses comprise ko it 01',°" aeFes or- ercent of the City's land area.
• P Y
Commercial uses occupy �-aer-es-(4.9 apprct�amai�ly € )percent e€ a at} mainly located along
Diamond Bar Boulevard and portions of Golden Springs Drive/Colima Road. Office uses occupy
approximately 140 acres, with a major 110 -acre corporate office complex located just east of the
southern intersection of the 57 and 60 freeways; this Gateway Corporate Center is presently less
than half completed. Approximately 84 acres of industrial/business park uses are located along
Brea Canyon Road, north of Lycoming Avenue. Parks, public facilities, open space, and roads
occupy the remaining 4463-aefes-(I i) aea.
The building areas shown in Tables I-1 and I-2 are for existing commercial, office, and light
industrial uses and were calculated based on representative samples of shopping centers, office
parks, and industrial parks within Diamond Bar. Building area can be estimated based on Floor
Area Ratio (FAR), or the ratio of building area in square feet divided by the total area of the site
(in square feet). For example, a building with 17,500 square feet on a 1 acre site (43,560 square
feet) has an FAR of 0.40 (17,500 divided by 43,560). Local leasing companies were contacted to
Diamond Bar General Plan Land Use Element
June 29, 1993 1-2
H-. GENERAL PLAN FORMAT
The 199-23*Diamond Bar Draf. General Plan is divided into three documents for ease of reference.
1. Document 1: General Plan
The first document contains the five actual divisions of the General Plan proper, that is, the compilation of
the goals, objectives, and implementation strategies of the Plan. This document contains an introduction, and
the Land Use, Housing,, Resource Management, Public Health and Safety,
Public Services and Facilities, and Of rculatu n :lenient Physiefil Mehi�+-
...........................
2. Document 2: Master Environmental Assessment 01 p , p t, . p4l.on ?(lh/92)
This document contains the Master Environmental Assessment for the City, which will provide a
comprehensive and consistent baseline of environmental data from which further (project -specific)
environmental analyses can be performed.
3. Document 3: FinI Environmental Impact Report/Technical Appendices ( erCtfie�l '1/1$f 9
This document contains the Draft Environmental Impact Report for the General Plan, including the Notice
of Preparation and Responses. The EIR contains the appropriate environmental documentation for the
General Plan as required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) including detailed analyses
of the various impacts of ultimately development Diamond Bar. This document also contains all of the
technical appendices not specifically related to the EIR such as noise air quality, land use summaries and
alternatives, etc An Addtit um td # q FET is r q �treti prior ttt adopttot of t: 0.06144.. Plan
The organization of the General Plan can thus be visualized as follows:
• Document 1
• Document 2
Master Environmental Assessment
• Document 3
Environmental Impact Report
Technical Appendices
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
June 29, 1993 19
support services, and commercial uses requiring more land area than is available
in General Commercial or Commercial Office areas. These areas will maintain a
maximum floor area ratio of 0.25 to 1.00.
1.1.4 The Public Facilities (PF) designation is designed to identify existing or potential
(future) sites for necessary public facilities or infrastructure improvements. The
primary purpose of land designated as Public Facilities, is to provide areas for the
conduct of public and institutional activities, including but not necessarily limited
to, local, State, and federal agencies, special districts, and both public and private
utilities. These uses maintain development standards which do not exceed that of
the most restrictive adjacent designation.
1.1.5 Areas designated as Open Space (OS) provide recreational opportunities,
preservation of scenic and environmental values, protection of resources (water
reclamation and conservation), and protection of public safety. This designation
also includes lands which have been deed restricted to open space as the result of
previous subdivision activities. This designation carries with it a maximum
development potential of one single family unit per parcel, unless building was
previously restricted or prohibited on such properties by the County.
1.1.6 Provide Park (PK) designations for existing and future public parks. Designate the
Diamond Bar Country Club as Golf Course. Designate major private recreational
facilities (e.g. Little League ball fields, YMCA, the park within The Country) as
Private Recreation (PR).
1.1.7 Encourage the innovative use of land resources and development of a variety of
housing and other development types, provide a means to coordinate the public and
private provision of services and facilities, and address the unique needs of certain
lands by recognizing a Planned Development (PD) designation, in which residential,
commercial, recreational, public facilities, and other land uses may be permitted.
This designation is to be applied to properties which are generally surrounded by
existing development, and where creative approaches are needed to integrate the
proposed development into existing development patterns.
1.1.8 Encourage the innovative use of land resources and development of a variety of
housing and other development types, provide a means to coordinate the public and
private provision of services and facilities, and address the unique needs of certain
lands by recognizing a Specific Plan (SP) designation for large scale development
areas in which residential, commercial, recreational, public facilities, and other land
uses may be permitted. This designation MAY # is -to -b applied ui ' lxe fuf)u to
large properties on the periphery of Diamond Bar which are to be developed into
self-supporting planned communities within the overall context of the Diamond Bar
community.
1.1.9 Recognize existing land use designations within the Diamond Bar sphere of influence
by recognizing an Agricultural (AG) designation for the x` s. Herzna33cts, gt£► rty
amd the `Tonner Canyon area. Within this designation, permit agricultural and
compatible open space and recreation uses (see also Land Use Element Strategy
1.6.3).
Diamond Bar General Plan Land Use Element
June 29, 1993 1-12
Figure 1-1
Existing Land Use
m =
NORTH 0 2000 4000 B000 FEE
RESIDENRAI
COMMERCl4E
OEFICE
INUUSFRW
PARKS/SCHOOESjPUBEIC FACIIInES
A\\.\\.\Y
VACAM/OPEN LANDS
CRY LIMBS
SPHERE OF WFEUENCE
Figure 1-1
Existing Land Use
m =
NORTH 0 2000 4000 B000 FEE
Objective 1.6 Provide flexibility in the planning of new development as a means of encouraging superior design.
Strategies::',
1.6.1 Within the Planned Development classification, all residential land uses considered
to be appropriate within the City of Diamond Bar, as well as support uses (e.g. open
space and recreation, public facilities, commercial, limited employment -generating
uses), may be appropriate, as determined in the development review process.
1.6.2 Require that Planned Development projects provide a greater level of community
amenities and cohesiveness, achieve superior design, and create a more desirable
living environment than could be achieved through conventional subdivision design
and requirements.
1.6.3 At such time as development might be proposed, encourage formulation of a specific
.
plan, pursuant to the provisions of Government Code Section 65450 for the Sphere
c f:Inflc ence Tonnes area that will protect its unique biological and open
space resources, create fiscal benefits for the City and enhance its infrastructure,
while minimizing future adverse impacts to both the human and natural
environment of the City, as well as the region (see Strategy 1.1.4 of the Physical
Mobility Element).
1.6.4 Encourage formulation of a specific plan pursuant to the provisions of Government
Code Section 65450 for the 800 acres in the northeast segment of the City known as
Tres Hermanos. This area represents a unique opportunity to provide facilities of
a type and in a manner which take advantage of the site. Facilities appropriate for
this site should be designed based upon a vision for the future, and not merely
extend the patterns of the past. Such facilities �s_uFd include a high school
and other educational institutions, reservoir for practical and aesthetic purposes,
commercial developments which are not typical of those found in the area, and a
variety of residential, churches, institutional, and other uses which are
complementary to the overall objective of having a master planned area.
Development within the Tres Hermanos area should be designed so as to be a part
of the Diamond Bar community, as well as compatible with the adjacent lands.
1.6.5 Establish a process to allow the transfer of density or development rights from land
with important open space (or other resources), to land that is more suitable for
development.
Diamond Bar General Plan Land Use Element
June 29, 1993 1-17
1.4.3 When a public agency determines that land it owns is no longer needed, ensure that
the property is offered to other agencies, including the City of Diamond Bar, for
public uses, prior to conversion to private sector use.
1.4.4 Designate and pursue acquisition of a centralized site for use as a civic/multi-
purpose community center.
Objective 1.5 Maintain a feeling of open space within the community by identifyi�rg and preserving an adequate
amount of open land.
Strategies:
1.5.2 Identify lands to be preserved in open space along with funding mechanisms .
a. Investigate the need for a bond issuance to purchase open space areas not
already protected by open space restrictions.
b. Investigate the need for establishment of one or more Landscape and
Lighting Districts to provide for open space improvements and maintenance.
C. Investigate the potential for establishment of a maintenance district for
privately -owned, slope areas that are along or visible from major roadways.
Diamond Bar General Plan Land Use Element
I-16
June 29, 1993
Table II -1
Diamond Bar Housing Stock (1990] 06
Source:
California Department of Finance :00.
1 Unincorporated area in 1988.
C. Substandard Units
Diamond Bar's housing stock is considerably younger than most of the County, with all of its housing being
built after 1960. By comparison, the Los Angeles County General Plan (Housing Element 1987) indicates that
11.5 percent of units in unincorporated areas were built prior to 1940, and 52.6 percent were built prior to
1960. Both the City's Code Enforcement Officer and the Building Official indicate that Diamond Bar has no
units that are considered substandard. There is no Census data on substandard units and units in need of
rehabilitation or replacement. However, the Census documents that of the 763 vacant housing units in the
City, only 3, or less than half of one percent, were boarded up.
d. Housing Assistance Needs
California housing law requires regional planning agencies to identity existing and future housing needs for
all income levels every five years. In addition to the distribution of housing need, regional planning agencies
must seek to avoid further "impaction" of jurisdictions with relatively high proportions of lower income
households. SCAG issued the housing assessment for Los Angeles County in the 1988 RHNAreport. Existing
need is defined as the number of resident lower income households paying 30 percent or more of their income
for housing. Although SCAG published a supplement to the RHNA documenting existing and future need
figures for new cities on February 16, 1989, it did not include Diamond Bar since it was incorporated after
this date.
According to SCAG, future need is defined as the number of additional housing units by income level that
will have to be added to each jurisdiction's housing stock from July 1, 1989 to June 30, 1994 in order to
accommodate household growth, compensate for demolitions and other inventory losses, and to achieve a 1994
vacancy rate that will allow the market to operate efficiently. In addition, the State Department of Housing
and Community Development has required that localities must account in their Housing Elements for future
needs that will have already occurred during the 1-1/2 year "gap" period from January 1, 1988, to June 30,
1989. The following four income level groups are used to define need for a particular jurisdiction:
• "Very Low" -Less than 50 percent of the median income
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
June 29, 1993 I14
Los Angeles
County 1
County Percent
City of
Diamond Bar
City Percent
Single Family
��34979161!#
464% 7.6
3% $ 4o7b
Multi -Family
44,386 0
�20..9°Ao l Q b
1 ,.324
�94ro .3 �,�1b
Mobile Homes
°moi 100
4.6% SA
-294
+7% :5°Fb
TOTAL
-39&W 2t4
100.0%
X664 3
100070
Source:
California Department of Finance :00.
1 Unincorporated area in 1988.
C. Substandard Units
Diamond Bar's housing stock is considerably younger than most of the County, with all of its housing being
built after 1960. By comparison, the Los Angeles County General Plan (Housing Element 1987) indicates that
11.5 percent of units in unincorporated areas were built prior to 1940, and 52.6 percent were built prior to
1960. Both the City's Code Enforcement Officer and the Building Official indicate that Diamond Bar has no
units that are considered substandard. There is no Census data on substandard units and units in need of
rehabilitation or replacement. However, the Census documents that of the 763 vacant housing units in the
City, only 3, or less than half of one percent, were boarded up.
d. Housing Assistance Needs
California housing law requires regional planning agencies to identity existing and future housing needs for
all income levels every five years. In addition to the distribution of housing need, regional planning agencies
must seek to avoid further "impaction" of jurisdictions with relatively high proportions of lower income
households. SCAG issued the housing assessment for Los Angeles County in the 1988 RHNAreport. Existing
need is defined as the number of resident lower income households paying 30 percent or more of their income
for housing. Although SCAG published a supplement to the RHNA documenting existing and future need
figures for new cities on February 16, 1989, it did not include Diamond Bar since it was incorporated after
this date.
According to SCAG, future need is defined as the number of additional housing units by income level that
will have to be added to each jurisdiction's housing stock from July 1, 1989 to June 30, 1994 in order to
accommodate household growth, compensate for demolitions and other inventory losses, and to achieve a 1994
vacancy rate that will allow the market to operate efficiently. In addition, the State Department of Housing
and Community Development has required that localities must account in their Housing Elements for future
needs that will have already occurred during the 1-1/2 year "gap" period from January 1, 1988, to June 30,
1989. The following four income level groups are used to define need for a particular jurisdiction:
• "Very Low" -Less than 50 percent of the median income
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
June 29, 1993 I14
• Analysis and documentation of household characteristics including level of payment
compared to ability -to -pay, housing characteristics, including overcrowding, and housing
stock condition. (Section 65583(a)(2)).
• Analysis of special housing needs, such as those of the handicapped. elderly, large families,
farm workers, and families with female heads of household, and families and persons in need
of emergency shelter. (Section 65583(a)(6)).
• Analysis of opportunities for energy conservation with respect to residential development.
(Section 65583(a)(7)).
1. Existing and Projected Housing Needs
a. Introduction
This section of the Plan for Housing discusses the various factors which induce a demand for housing. The
factors include a review of population and employment trends as well as the City's "share of regional housing
need".
b. Housing Stock Condition
The term "condition" refers to the physical quality of the housing stock. The quality of individual housing
units or structures may be defined as either sound, deteriorating or dilapidated. Sound housing is defined
as a structure with no major deficiencies, although the structure may require minor maintenance, painting,
and general clean-up. A deteriorated structure is one that contains several deficiencies such as patched, loose,
or missing roofing material, missing or broken windows, wood trim or siding wom, weathered or broken, paint
cracking or peeling, loose or worn wiring, etc. Lastly, dilapidated structures contain one or more major
structural deficiencies such as loose protective surface (brick, plaster, wood, siding, etc.), settled porch or roof,
weakened structure or inadequate foundation, obvious deviation from plumbing, extensive damage due to fire,
etc. The term housing "improvements" refer to the "remedial" actions necessary to correct defects in the
housing condition such as demolition, minor repairs, major repairs, and rehabilitation.
n t.....-.... '
,,--,.�,,.._, had
Diamond Bar a
2t
Diamo d
According to ...... ;af qty f1#e ifs W, .. .,.., . _ o
a total of li ,i� 3 -f:1,664 dwelling units and a population of�W 53,64 residents. The majority (1..8 41-.3
percent) of Diamond Bar's housing units are single-family detached dwellings. A complete breakdown of
housing for the City in 4996 is shown in Table II -1. According to the 1990 census, median home value
in Diamond Bar was $272,900. A review of resale house price data from the California Market Data
Cooperative (CMDC) in Diamond Bar indicates an average resale value of $312,324
for 1991 which was up 2.7 percent from a value of $304,000 for 1990. These figures were compiled from over
500 individual home sales per year for an average four-bedroom house with approximately 2,000 square feet
that was built in 1975.
OF ihese, 4,+3-2 are condaminiums or townhornes, distributed among 26 developments, and 649 apartntenis
in €eti-eemplexes No local data was available on average sales prices of condominiums or townhomes. The
1990 census indicates that median rent for the City is W. A re'eent survey showed rental rates in the City
from $745 to $795 for one -bedroom units, from $750 to $915 for two-bedroom units, and from $960 to $1120
for larger units (Planning Network 1991). There are also 148 apartments in the Gity that are resirieted to
9egiers-e*. The City also has 994 mobile home units in two trailer parks near Lycoming and Brea
Canyon Road. According to Table II -1, Diamond Bar has a smaller percentage of mobile homes than the
County as a whole.
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
June 29, 1993 H-3
for the provision of housing affordable to very low, low, or moderate income
households. If determined to be feasible, implement the program.
1.1.10 Establish parking requirements for housing to a level consistent with the
occupant's transportation needs.
1.1.11 Facilitate the provision of single and multiple family dwelling units available to
very low, low, and moderate income households through participation in the
Mortgage Revenue Bond Program, issuance of Mortgage Credit Certificates, and
use of other viable economic resources. Encourage private sector participation
in the provision of very low, low, and moderate cost housing by offering such
programs to developers who provide at least 20 percent of the housing units
within prices which are affordable to very low, low, and moderate income
households.
GOAL 1F "Encourage adequate housing opportunities for all economic segments of the
community, regardless of age, race, ethnic background, national origin, religion, family
size, sex, marital status, physical conditions, or any other arbitrary factors".
Objective 2.1 Ensure that the existing supply of low and moderate cost housing within Diamond Bar does not
diminish.
Strategies:
2.1.1 Where proposed development projects or other discretionary actions of the City
of Diamond Bar would reduce the number of existing subsidized dwelling units,
ensure that appropriate offsets are provided as part of the proposed action.
a. To avoid potential reduction in the supply of rental housing, prepare a
condominium conversion ordinance which would limit the conversion of
rental apartments to condominiums or cooperatives.
b. Require that all successful conversion applicants provide a relocation
assistance program for displaced tenants, encouraging relocation within the
community.
C. Based on the provisions of Government Code Section 65863.7, consider
requiring the submission of a report detailing the impacts of any proposed
mobilehome park conversion to a nonresidential use concurrent with the
filing of any discretionary permit on such property.
d. Annually assess all affordable or assisted housing units that are considered
"at risk" as delineated in the "Inventory of Federally Subsidized Low -Income
Rental Units at Risk of Conversion (1989)" or other appropriate federal or
State documents.
e. Investigate the feasibility of programs to ensure that "for sale" housing
which is subsidized so as to be affordable to very low, low, and moderate
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
June 29, 1993 11-21
• The appropriateness of the housing goals, objectives, and policies in contributing to the
attainment of the State housing goals.
• The effectiveness of the housing element in attainment of the community's housing goals and
objectives.
• The progress of the city, county, or city and county, in implementation of the housing
element.
At present, the City of Diamond Bar does not have a record of implementing housing programs, and can not,
therefore, report on their progress. These guidelines will be used when the housing element is updated. At
present, neither the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) nor the Los Angeles County
Housing Authority has information on the number or type of federal or State housing subsidies in Diamond
Bar.
The City will prepare the new Comprehensive Housing Assistance Strategy (CHAS) report by the end of the
year which will detail the extent of assistance in the City. Since Diamond Bar's population is over 50,000 it
will be eligible to use Federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds for housing programs.
F HOUSING GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND STRATEGIES
'IT IS THE OVERALL GOAL OF THE PLAN FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT THAT THERE
BEADEQUATE HOUSING IN THE CITY, BOTH IN QUALITY AND QUANTITY, TO PROVIDE
APPROPRIATE SHELTER FOR ALL WITHOUT DISCRIMINATION."
GOAL L 2 "The City should provide opportunities for development of housing suitable to meet
the diverse needs of residents, and to support healthy economic development:
Objective A. Development of an adequate supply of housing to meet Diamond Bar's housing needs as follows.
t Based on Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA).
2 Through 1994.
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
June 29. 1993 II -19
Five Year
Housing Need1
Housing Goa12
Category
Number
Percent
Number
Percent
Very Low
117
15
30
15
Low
182
23
47
23
Moderate
144
18
37
18
Upper
338
43
86
43
Total
781
100
200
100
t Based on Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA).
2 Through 1994.
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
June 29. 1993 II -19
• Section 221 rental and cooperative housing for moderate income families.
• Section 223 purchase and refinance of existing rental units.
• Section 234 insurance for condominiums.
• Section 241 supplemental loan insurance for existing multi -family rental
housing.
CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT
• Self -Help Housing Program: technical assistance grants and mortgage
assistance for owner -builder organizations.
• Mobilehome Park Assistance Program. Financial and technical assistance
to residents to purchase mobilehome parks.
• California Homeownership Assistance Program. Shared appreciation loans
for manufactured housing or for renters in projects converting to
cooperative or condominium ownership.
• California Housing Rehabilitation Program. Rehabilitation loans from
Proposition 77 to owner occupants of substandard housing, including low
income and rental housing.
• Family Housing Demonstration Program. Loan funds for construction or
purchase and rehabilitation of housing that includes support services such
as child care, job training, etc.
• Rental Housing Construction Program. Loan funds to government agencies
for profit and non-profit sponsors of new rental housing projects.
• Predevelopment Loan Program. Loans to local government agencies and
nonprofit corporations to pay predevelopment costs incurred in developing
low income housing.
• Senior Citizens Shared Housing Program. Funds technical assistance to,
matching services for, and development costs of, shared housing for senior
citizens.
CALIFORNIA HOUSING FINANCE AGENCY
• Resale Program. Below market interest rate mortgage financing for first-
time homebuyers earning less than $40-45,000, depending on family size.
The sales price maximum is presently $113,000.
• Home Purchase Assistance Program. Up to $15,000 deferred payment with
3 percent simple interest second mortgage loans to lower income first -tune
homebuyers.
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
June 29, 1993 11-23
income households remain affordable to those income groups after sale to
the first buyer.
Objective 2.2 Prevent housing discrimination in Diamond Bar.
Strategies:
2.2.1 Distribute information regarding the activities of the City to assist in the
resolution of housing discrimination cases.
2.2.2 Participate in the activities of the Long Beach Fair Housing Council as they affect
the City of Diamond Bar.
Objective 2.3 Cooperate with regional agencies to provide housing for die elderly, handicapped, homeless, and
other special needs groups.
Strategies:
2.3.1 Promote housing accessibility for elderly, handicapped, and disabled persons.
2.3.2 Specifically encourage development of assisted rental housing for the elderly,
handicapped, and disabled. Specifically encourage development of such housing
through the use of density bonuses, tax-exempt bonds, and land write-downs,
combined with federal and State housing subsidies.
2.3.3 Provide information regarding the availability of emergency shelter.
2.3.4 Pursue State, federal, and private programs designed to expand housing
opportunities for all segments of society including the elderly and the
handicapped. Determine the extent to which such programs are consistent with
the goals and objectives of the Diamond Bar General Plan, and the extent to
which such programs can be incorporated into future development within the
City. Programs include but are not limited to:
FEDERAL DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT (HUD)
• Federal Community Development Block Grant monies for senior citizen and
handicapped housing projects.
• Section 202 funding for financing of rental housing projects.
• Section 203 insurance for acquisition and rehabilitation financing for single
family homes.
• Section 207 rental housing funding.
• Section 213 cooperative housing funding.
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
June 29, 1993 II -22
recommendation, which will need to be addressed. The City will need to provide adequate park acreage and
recreation facilities to serve the need of present and future residents.
Currently, within the City there is a total of 470.8 acres of recreational facilities, including 59.4 acres of
developed parkland and 75.5 acres of undeveloped parkland for a total of 134.9 acres of city owned park land.
Within the City there are quasi-public parkland and/or facilities that may require user fees; these include the
Diamond Bar Golf Course, YMCA and Little League fields.
There is also a private parkland and facility which consists of "The Country" park. Only residents of "The
Country" can use the park which consists of 16.4 developed acres and 133.5 undeveloped acres.
The City is located within an hour of several regional recreation and national forest areas such as the Chino
Hills State Park, as well as San Gabriel and San Bernardino National Forests to the north and northeast,
which include the summer and winter resort areas of Big Bear Lake and Lake Arrowhead. The forests
provide outdoor activities as diverse as swimming, boating, hiking, camping, downhill skiing, and cross
country skiing. There are also County recreation facilities available at Schabarum Regional Park to the west
and Bonelli Regional Park to the north (which contains Puddingstone Lake).
Within the City, the 57 Freeway is designated as a pecEState Scenic Highway with views of the mountains
rapos;
to the north and east. Local roadways such as Golden Springs Drive, Diamond Bar Boulevard, and Grand
Avenue offer a variety of suburban and open views within the City.
Diamond Bar General Plan Resource Management Element
III -3
June 29, 1993
• Matching Down Payment Program. Matches first-time homebuyer's down
payment up to $5,000. Loans only to CHFA first-time borrowers. Loans
are due on sale and carry 3 percent simple interest.
LOS ANGELES COUNTY HOUSING AUTHORITY
• Section 8 Existing Certificates. Rental subsidies.
• Home Improvement Loan Program. Below market interest rate loans up to
$15,000 for eligible homeowners. Eligible improvements include new roof,
exterior paint, etc. All health and safety violations must be corrected.
• Repair Service Program for Senior Homeowners. One time grant of labor
and materials for eligible homeowners for minor repairs and weatherization
and insulation.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
• If found to be feasible, requirements for provision of "in lieu" funds for
development of housing affordable to low and moderate income households.
PRIVATE ORGANIZATIONS
• Savings Associations Mortgage Company (SAMCO). A statewide
organization supported by stockholder savings institutions to provide
financing for affordable housing projects.
• California Community Reinvestment Corporation (CCRC). Aresource pool
supported by the State's banks to assist in financing affordable housing.
2.3.5 Following acquisition of federal Community Development Block Grant funds by
1993, designate a Housing Coordinator in the Planning Department to make
applications for various state and federal programs. Earmark at least $25,000
annually from various sources toward meeting the housing needs of Diamond Bar
residents.
2.3.6 Work with the Los Angeles County Housing Authority and nearby cities to
establish a continuous emergency shelter program serving the eastern portion of
the County. Funds for homeless shelters available through the McKinney Act
include:
• Emergency Shelter Grants for building acquisition and rehabilitation, rental
assistance, and payment of security deposits.
• Section 8 Mod Rehab Assistance for Single Room Occupancy Housing can
be used to rehabilitate a single room occupancy hotel.
• Supplemental Assistance for Facilities to Assist the Homeless.
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
June 29, 1993 II -24
Objective 1. 10 Consider noise issues in land use planning and development permit processing to require that
noise generated by one use or facility does not adversely affect adjacent uses or facilities.
Strategies:
1.10.1
Within identified 65 dB CNEL noise contours, require that site-specific noise
studies be prepared to verify site-specific noise conditions and to ensure that noise
considerations are included in project review.
1.10.2
Within identified 65dB CNEL noise corridors, ensure that necessary attenuation
measures are applied to meet adopted interior and exterior noise standards.
1.10.3
Through the CEQA process, analyze new projects which might have a significant
impact on noise sensitive uses (projects are defined as actions having the potential
to unreasonably increase projected CNEL noise levels). Require appropriate
mitigation measures to ensure that adopted noise standards within sensitive land use
areas are not exceeded as the result of the proposed project.
1.10.4
As part of the Development Code, adopt noise -related development standards.
1.10.5
Where possible, encourage attenuation of existing noise problems within existing
development where adopted noise standards are being reached or exceeded.
1.10.6
As part of t#ie iutirt General Plan review, determine whether: (1) roadway and
freeway traffic levels have increased; (2) new noise generation sources have been
created; and (3) if update of the noise contour map is warranted.
1.10.7
Apply mitigation measures as needed to noise generators and receptors to ensure
that adopted noise standards are met and to protect land uses from excessive noise
impacts.
1.10.8
Ensure that land uses are located so as to meet the following standards:
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Health and Safety Element
June 29, 1993 IV -11
• Initiate a program of identifying environmentally significant areas in the
City and the sphere of influence, and analyze the possibility of protecting
any unique or significant environmental features of such areas.
• Pursue protection of environmentally significant areas.
• Pursue development of an integrated trails system within the community.
1.3.2 Unless there is an overriding public recreation need, require that open space areas,
which are set aside as part of a development project have use suitable restrictions.
1.3.3 Maintain an inventory of open lands which were set aside for open space uses as
part of previous development approvals through the County, and require verification
as to the existence of any potential open space restrictions previously approved on
the subject property, prior to accepting development proposals.
1.3.4 Recreational Open Space shall be preserved as recreational open space including,
but not limited to, the Diamond Bar Golf Course.
1.3.5 Plan for the development of a system of greenbelts within the community.
1.3.6 Strive to provide neighborhood and community park facilities, such that a rate of
5.0 acres per parkland is ultimately achieved.
1.3.7 Develop a Needs Analysis to determine the present and future recreation and park
needs.
1.3.8 Prepare a comprehensive Master Plan of Parks which analyzes present and future
recreation and park needs.
• Develop design standards for park size, location, relationship and impact
to adjacent properties and community facilities.
• Provide list of existing park sites to be improved or expanded.
• Target locations for park acquisition and type of park required.
• List timing and phasing of acquisition and improvements of parkland.
• Provide costs of acquisition and improvements, including funding sources
and implementation priorities.
Diamond Bar General Plan Resource Management Element
June 29, 1993 111-12
Objective 1.3 Maintain the integrity of residential neighborhoods. Discourage through traffic.
Strategies:
1.3.1 Prevent the creation of new roadway connections which adversely impact existing
neighborhoods.
1.3.2 Implement neighborhood traffic control programs to reduce and divert through
traffic.
1.3.3 Design new developments and their access points in such a way that the capacity of
local residential streets is not exceeded.
GOAL 2 "Provide a balanced transportation system for the safe and efficient movement of
people, goods and services through the City.
Objective 2.1 Marimize the use of alternative transponadon modes within and through the City to decrease
reliance on single passenger automobiles.
Strategies:
2.1.1 Maximize the availability and use of public transit service.
2.1.2 Investigate the feasibility of establishing a local transit system. Support privately
funded local transit systems for seniors and youths.
2.1.3 Support mixed-use developments to maximize transportation efficiency.
2.1.4 Pursue a cooperative effort with Caltrans and regional transit providers to develop
a major intermodal transportation facility at the proposed Metrolink Station near
Brea Canyon Road and State Route 60.
2.1.5 Encourage participation in carpools through the use of City publications and public
displays.
2.1.6 Coordinate to the extent possible with neighboring cities in the development of a
Transportation Demand Management (TDM) plan.
2.1.7 Work with Caltrans to build new park-and-ride sites and expand existing park-and-
ride facilities.
2.1.8 Expand and maintain the system of bicycle routes connecting residential areas to
major community attractions.
2.1.9 Pursue a cooperative joint agencies program to provide access for Diamond Bar
residents to a regional light rail system.
Diamond Bar General Plan Circulation Element
June 29, 1993 V-6
W'<Q GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES
GOAL 1 "Enhance the environment of the City's street network. Work toward improving the
problems presented by the intrusion of regionally oriented commuter traffic through
the City and into residential neighborhoods. Consider programs to reinforce the
regional transportation and circulation system to adequately accommodate regional
needs."
Objective I Participate in local and regional transportation related planning and decisionmaking.
Strategies:
1.1.1 Preclude the connection of roadways from adjacent jurisdictions into the City unless
demonstrable benefits to Diamond Bar residents and businesses are indicated.
1.1.2 In reviewing transportation improvements, maintain a clear distinction betweenlocal
and regional objectives.
1.1.3 Ensure the opportunity for public comment on major changes in operational
characteristics of the circulation system.
1.1.4
Objective 1.2 Balance the need for optimum traffic flow on City arterials within economic realities,
environmental, and aesthetic considerations.
Strategies:
1.2.1 Prepare programs for traffic control measures.
1.2.2 Maintain fle)dbility in the cross sections and configuration of streets within
topographically rugged or environmentally sensitive areas.
Diamond Bar General Plan Circulation Element
June 29, 1993 V_5
Table V4 V?1
City of Diamond Bar Roadway Classification
Los Angeles Roadway
County Diamond Bar Width Dedication Improvement
Roadway Classification' Classification (ft.) Stds. (ft.) Stds. (ft.)
Diamond Bar Blvd.
Major
Major
100
100
100
Colith3'1R2f.
Major
Major
100
100
100
Golden Springs Dr. /
inGK
SeeeeAaty
Secondary
80
80
80
Grand Ave.
Major
Major
100
100
100
Pathfinder Rd. (e/o Brea Canyon Rd. -west
Major
Major
100
100
100
leg)
Pathfinder Rd. (w/o Brea Canyon Rd. -west
M,i.n
Secondary
so
BO
80
leg)
sf5
Brea Canyon Rd. (s/o Colima Rd.)
NVn
Secondary
80
90
80
Brea Canyon Rd. (n/o Colima Rd.)
Major
Major
100
100
100
Lemon Ave.
Major
Residential-
fb4.
64
64
(s, of Colima)
Collector
499
Lemon Ave.
Major
Secondary
80
80
80
(n. of Colima)
Sunset Crossing Rd.
Tiliria
Cul-de-sac
80
80
64
last'>vf mai 57
............................
seeeiidai}
.............................
;':?e
....:::.....................:
Washington St.
Mf ,.9
Saesxda�y
Cul-de-sac
80
80
64
Beaverhead Dr.
itja
Cul-de-sac
80
80
64
Lycoming St.
i4firia
seeenja }i
Cul-de-sac
80
80
64
Brea Canyon Cut -Off Rd.
Ltd Secondary
64-80
64-80
64-80
Chino Hills Pkwy.
Major
ttaji
100
100
100
'Los Angeles County Highway Plan (luevember1989)
Diamond Bar General Plan Circulation Element
June 29, 1993 V-13
Local residential streets include those streets predominantly residential in terms of adjacent property use,
and are intended to retain a residential character. Whey are typ y tg
scall ot<des anted. ) ``tbe �eaerai. I'taq
Circitla€on �Iesnenf
b itnad ay SYstews
The f're etBI 12I lrculatiO4ierit .At.rt�adwag system ,s illustrated .;'ut 1~igti e V 1 axil Snutinarized w T trl
1 For rp..npartgntt pnrperse¢,; t#i table alsa'shrtvws the previous Co-unty rtzadway iesignatr�r�a U. systet
>s de%e a ordui .t?: the € assn atians deserih esrTler xu this. >Erlement
icludacl m tlfd r�adv�ay system dtagrain arsterittat corrtdirs tie set addresses future: access xxeeds faF
iC Socxl stte the Tris Het Ratici ro
P peri Strategy No 2 2 attd Clie ter fat:. .regtaal
pertperal tx�tridtar yrQvidutgs. bxvverhuia. ft11s Parkway:.and the ... ............
..uvuopEneutal gsittye ')<anspcirtattuu Corridor
ei u a transgortattcn faetltiy def�tued bycharaetenstics than
eater ttca'ltty :ttt; ttrtpact envttrrta�xteat rend 'W--*-
........... eeos}�ster Tt alsa.:meets the
g; etal ter zltst x ming able all0. ii r arovemetrts of peQpte and gao is iIt a safe aud'„efficient manner:
'lese cltecistt£sixauld1►c bust rib be Iinaid to the foiauxig
Diamond Bar General Plan Circulation Element
June 29, 1993 V-11
.........................
VI. PUBLIC SERVICES AND FACILITIESLEN°
A. INTRODUCTION
State law does not require the preparation of a general plan element dealing specifically with public services
and facilities. However, it does state that...
"The general plan may include any other elements or address any other subjects which, in
the judgement of the legislative body, relate to the physical development of the county or city'
(Government Code Section 65303).
Diamond Bar, as a new City, faces many decisions as how to best provide services to the public, and what
types of facilities it needs to build to support those services. Therefore, a local General Plan element dealing
with the long-term provision of municipal services and facilities is appropriate for Diamond Bar.
The actual provision of various public services has already been addressed in the following sections of the
Diamond Bar General Plan:
I.
.and Use >Eretat
..................
..................
III. Ilam—Fef Resource Management Els.ment
Land Use (for all services & utilities)
Parks and Recreation
Water (and Reclaimed Wastewater)
Energy Systems
Solid Waste
IV. Plan for- Public Health and Safety Flood Control
................
{ Police
...................
Fire
Emergency Services
Disaster Preparedness
The Plea-fef Public Services and Facilities Iit##t seeks to tie the provision of these various services and
facilities together into an integrated strategy for municipal management. The Plan focuses on:
• Identifying City facilities and services needed to sustain the community's quality of life
• Long-range planning to fund City services and buildings
• Coordinating and cooperating with various local agencies to provide those services not
provided by the City.
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Services and Facilities Element
June 29, 1993 VI -1
G 2 Transit and Paratransit Services
Public bus transit service is provided to the City of Diamond Bar by the Southern California Rapid Transit
District (RTD) and Foothill Transit. Both fixed route transit and paratransit service operate within the City
of Diamond Bar. Fixed route transit services are typically bus lines which operate on regular schedules along
a set route, stopping at predefined bus stops. Fixed route service can be either local (intracity) or regional
(intercity). Paratransit services, more commonly referred to as Dial -a -Ride, are demand responsive services
which provide rides to passengers upon an individual request basis. Although they operate within a defined
service area, they do not operate on fixed routes or schedules. Paratransit service typically serve transit
dependent persons such as the elderly and handicapped. They often serve major destinations such as
hospitals and medical facilities but may also take passengers to local destinations such as neighborhood
shopping centers.
3i*I3 Diamand n.._ Bi a Left m F
A
8B 57 Off f:aMp beft Tiff-*
E
'SB 57 Off famp Thfough
4)
fi
A
L'U ✓: nd BaF BIN, beet THFIt G
A
F?M
57 off romp Thfougit
T
1)
A�
NB 9:7 Off Famp Right Tum 31
F
3. Railroad Lines
There are currently no passenger rail facilities in operation within the City of Diamond Bar. The nearest
Amtrak facilities are located in Pomona and Fullerton. The Pomona Amtrak station, which serves the
Southwest Chief line, is located at 2701 Gary Avenue and is approximately nine miles northeast of Diamond
Bar. The Fullerton Amtrak station, which serves the San Diegans line, is located at the corner of Sante Fe
and Harbor Boulevard and is approximately 13 miles to the southwest.
AMetrolink commuter rail station h e0nre: n#ty.... P OWnteds planned along the Union Pacific Railroad
at Brea Canyon Road, just north of State Route 60.
Diamond Bar General Plan Circulation Element
June 29, 1993 V-14
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS
The City presently has a minimum of in-house staff, and contracts out much of the actual service provision
to local public and private agencies. In-house City services include administration, engineering, planning,
parks and recreation, and maintenance of public facilities. The City is also arranging for local collection of
solid waste. These daily functions are housed in City Hall, which currently consists of office space leased in
the Gateway Corporate Center.
The major physical assets of the City are its streets and parks, which were originally built by the County.
The existing street system is also in good condition at present. Park maintenance is presently handled by City
staff, although maintenance of the local landscape districts is contracted to private firms.
The County of Los Angeles provides a number of services under contract to the City. Wastewater conveyance
and treatment is provided by County Sanitation District No. 21. Although much of the physical sewage
infrastructure (pipelines) appear in generally good condition, there have been repeated failures of the pump
stations needed to lift flows to the regional collectors.
Flood control is provided by the County Flood Control District. Its facilities are in fairly good condition with
a small amount of seasonal flooding near the intersection of Brea Canyon Road and Diamond Bar Boulevard.
Solid waste disposal is handled by the County Solid Waste Management Department using several regional
landfills. However, landfill space could run out before the end of the decade.
Law enforcement in handled by the County Sheriffs Department out of the Walnut -San Dimas Station. Fire
protection, emergency evacuation, and response to accidents involving hazardous materials are all
accommodated by the County Fire Department with three stations in and around Diamond Bar.
The Los Angeles County Library System also maintains a very small community library on Grand Avenue
near Diamond Bar Boulevard.
Other services and facilities are provided within Diamond Bar by a variety of public and private agencies.
Domestic water service is provided by the Walnut Valley Water District, which is in turn supplied by Three
Valleys Municipal Water District and ultimately by the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California.
Water facilities are generally adequate, although the statewide drought makes the long-term supply of water
to this area questionable.
In terms of energy utilities, electricity is supplied by the Southern California Edison Company, while natural
gas is supplied by the Southern California Gas Company. Energy facilities are generally adequate to
accommodate existing and planned uses.
Comprehensive K-12 educational facilities and programs are provided by the Walnut Valley Unified School
District and the Pomona Unified School District.
Other services within Diamond Bar include branch office postal services administered in Pomona, R -:M A
bus system, Walnut -Diamond Bar YMCA, and Seniors organization.
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Services and Facilities Element
June 29, 1993 V1-2
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
TO: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Counci
FROM: James DeStefano, Community Development D
SUBJECT: Comments on 1993 General Plan from Gary Neely
DATE: June 24, 1993
Attached for your review is a copy of suggested changes to the 1993
General Plan presented by Mr. Gary Neely within his correspondence
received June 24, 1993.
JDS\mco
attachment
1
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
TO: Chairman and Planning Commissioners
FROM: James DeStefano, Community Development Director
SUBJECT: Referral of 1993 General Plan to the Planning
Commission for Recommendation
DATE: June 24, 1993
INTRODUCTION/PURPOSE
As you are aware, a residents' group successfully petitioned the
City Council, through the referendum process, to reconsider
adoption of the 1992 General Plan. As a result, the City Council
in March of 1993 rescinded its prior resolution (Resolution No. 92-
44) which adopted the 1992 General Plan. The Council directed the
preparation of a workshop and public hearing process to revise the
1992 General Plan (dated July 14, 1992) and adopt the 1993 General
Plan.
The City Council has referred the proposed 1993 General Plan to the
Commission for review and recommendation. Government Code Section
65356 requires that before the legislative body makes any
substantial modification to the General Plan, as recommended by the
commission, that the modification be referred to the Commission for
its recommendation. The City Council has further directed that the
Commission provide its report to the Council no later than June 29,
1993.
WORKSHOP/PUBLIC HEARING PROCESS
Five Community Workshops were held in April and May to identify
planning issues and discuss potential General Plan policy options.
In order for the public workshops to be as productive as possible,
an extensive outreach program was initiated which included display
ads published in the newspapers, posters displayed throughout the
community, notices mailed to all persons on our mailing list, and
public service announcements broadcast over various cable
television stations.
The community workshops identified the amount and type of future
residential development, open space preservation, reduction of
traffic congestion, and a transportation corridor through Tonner
Canyon as the key planning issues.
1
As a result of the workshop process, public hearings have been
utilized to suggest further revision to the General Plan. Five
hearings have concluded as of this date with additional hearings
scheduled to further discuss the General Plan.
The Council has reviewed workshop summary comments, individual
written submittals and received public hearing participation in the
revision of the Draft Plan. Throughout the course of the public
hearings the council has received, recorded and directed the City
Staff to consider a variety of comments related to landuse,
housing, open space, conservation, circulation, noise and safety
Policy. Suggested text and mapping revisions as a result of the
public comments, are contained within the June 16, 1993, Draft
General Plan.
BACKGROUND: Upon Incorporation one of the many responsibilities
a new City has is to develop a General Plan. Required by State
Law, the General Plan is a statement of goals, policies and
programs that guide the long range physical development of the
City. The Plan determines the size, form and character of the City
and its population in both the near and distant future. It sets
forth the community's priorities on a myriad of issues, including
land use, transportation, housing, open space, conservation, noise
and safety.
State Law requires that each City prepare and adopt a
"comprehensive, long term General Plan for the physical
development" of the community. This General Plan must cover all
incorporated territory and should go beyond the City limits to
include "any land outside its boundaries which bears relation to
its planning"- Government Code 65300. The General Plan before the
Council incorporates the seven mandatory elements State Law
requires within a General Plan. Each element addresses a
particular area of planning.
The development of the General Plan began in late 1989 with the
creation of the City Council appointed General Plan Advisory
Committee (GPAC). GPAC shared its proposal with the Planning
Commission in early 1992. Additional input was provided to the
Planning Commission by the Parks and Recreation Commission, and the
Traffic and Transportation Commission. The Planning Commission
held several public hearings and forwarded a General Plan for City
Council consideration. The Council, at the conclusion of a lengthy
public hearing process, adopted.a General Plan on July 14, 1992.
DISCUSSION: The 1993 Draft General Plan incorporates the seven
state mandated elements into six major sections. The 1993 Draft
General Plan utilized as its foundation the previous Draft Plan
dated July 14, 1992. Changes from the 1992 plan are identified by
deletions in strike-^• and additions shown in
2
The Plan begins with a statement of vision. The vision statement
incorporates major components including retention of existing
natural open space, mitigation of regional traffic impacts on local
streets, and promotion of viable commercial activity. The
discussion on the community participation process recognizes the
qualification of the August, 1992, referendum petition, the
decision to rescind the General Plan in March of 1993, and the
initiation of a broad based community participation program
utilized to formulate the 1993 Draft General Plan.
Several significant changes are identified within the Draft General
Plan responding to statements within the referendum petition,
community workshop, and public hearing comments related to the
amount and type of future residential development, open space
preservation, traffic congestion on local roadways, and the Tonner
Canyon transportation corridor. The 1993 Draft General Plan
outlines specific changes made which reduce overall residential
development density significantly by lowering the majority of the
community's residential land use classifications from a theoretical
6 dwelling units per acre to reflect the current development
pattern of approximately 3 dwelling units per acre.
The Tres Hermanos area land use designation has been changed to
reflect the current considerations for the property which include
a specific location for the Diamond Ranch High School and
recognition of the existing agricultural land usage.
Expansion of previous "open land" language for clarification and
specificity, has emphasized the need for confirmation of previous
deed restrictions and has provided a new open space definition and
preservation program, and further recognition and delineation of
the Significant Ecological Area located within the central portion
of the sphere of influence.
PUBLIC HEARING NOTIFICATION:
Public hearing notices were previously published within the San
Gabriel Valley Tribune and Inland Valley Daily Bulletin in
accordance with State Law. Notice of the public hearings have been
mailed to several hundred names on our General Plan mailing list.
All General Plan documents have been available for review at City
Hall and the County Library.
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the Planning Commission open
the public hearing, receive a presentation from the
staff/consultant team, receive public testimony and forward a
report to the City Council recommending adoption of the subtantial
modifications contained within the Draft 1993 General Plan.
attachments: 1. Draft General Plan dated 6/16/93 (previously
transmitted)
3
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
TO: Chairman and Planning Commissioners
FROM: James DeStefano, Community Development Di
SUBJECT: Comments on 1993 General Plan from Gary Neely';
DATE: June 24, 1993
Attached for your review is a copy of suggested changes to the 1993
General Plan presented by Mr. Gary Neely within his correspondence
received June 24, 1993.
JDS\mco
attachment
1
June 18, 1993
n
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TY
✓\W.
Mr. Terry Belanger
City Manager
City of Diamond Bar
21660 E. Copley j --)five, Suite 100
Diamond Bar, California 91765
RE: Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated June 16, 1993
Also see: My letter, including attachment, to you dated March 18, 1993
Also see: My written suggested changes to the Land Use, Housing, Resource Management,
and Public Services and Facilities Elements dated May 4, 1993
Mr. Belanger,
N
N
2
r
O
This is to formally update my suggested changes to the Diamond Bar General Plan now that the
first Draft Revision has been published and the first Public Hearing (6/16/93) has concluded. All my
comments will relate to the document entitled City of Diamond Bar Draft General Plan dated June 16, 1993.
I will organize my comments in such a manner as to work from front to back of that document.
Under ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS (no page number): Mrs. Lavinia Rowland attended the Public
Workshop referred to as "2A" but is not listed as a participant.
IN THE INTRODUCTION:
NOTE: If the Land Use Element pages are going to be number I -(whatever), shouldn't these
pages in this section be numbered something other than I -(whatever)?
Under A. I7SION STATEMENT (page I-1 & 2): In my opinion, it is a blurry vision indeed that
can't see the potential economic, recreational, traffic or environmental impacts on our city of 120,000 acre
feet of water sewng on our eastern border.... even if this long -proposed body of water is 200 feet on the
Chino Hills side of the County line. Maybe to a lesser degree, but nonetheless valid; I can not conceive of
a vision statement that neglects to mention a commitment to pursuing a goal of providing the highest quality
and quantity of educational opportunities for its citizens. I suggest the following verbiage describing
conditions that, admittedly do not yet exist (see second paragraph on page I-1), be inserted under the third
paragraph which begins: "What are the major components of the Diamond Bar Vision?"
Although the majority of the Tres Hermanos Water Resource Project, winch includes both the t42 'acre
reclaimed water lake and the 1200 acre potable water lake, actually is located in neighboring Chino Hills, the
potential impact this project would have on the City in terms of economic development and new recreational
opportunities can not be understated The reclaimed water lake, wholly located within the City's borders, will
provide a source of water that would directly effect the viability of other potential developments in the City. The
reduction of fire hazard in the area as a result of this project would be dramatic. The potential increase of
property values in the City as a direct result of the two lakes' construction is profound
The economic development potential associated with becoming a U.C. host city is enormous. The
positive effect this proposed University would have on the quality of education at the K-12 schools throughout
the City is beyond estimation. Should this proposed project beconte a reality, many of the other issues facing the
City and detailed in this document (e.g., stabilizing municipal revenues, expediting the maturation of the Corporate
Center, eliminating the strip center vacancies, improving recreational facilities and housing needs, etc.) can be
solved Inasmuch as Diamond Bar is centrally located between the three existing University of California
campuses in the Los Angeles Basin and is in the unique position of having undeveloped property available
Mr. Terry Belanger
RE: Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated 6/16/93
June 18, 1993
within its boundaries of sufficient size (Tres Hermanos Ranch) to house such a campus, a long term effort to
secure the next Southern California U. C. campus has been under discussion for some time. Although the State's
present economic situation has currently forced the U.C. system to put its plans to build new campuses on hold
this delay can be seen as beneficial because it provides the opportunity for the City to better coordinate long range
plans for the property surrounding the proposed campus. Additionally, the mixed use center proposal alone, meant
to act as a "city within a city" and which would house and service the needs of the estimated 7000 student
population and their visitors, could provide a revenue source for the City rivaling any mall in the country. This
is a revenue source the scale of which the City could not get otherwise.
You'll note that I had earlier suggested these paragraphs be included in numerous places throughout
the different elements of the General Plan. That approach seemed somewhat repetitive, if not redundant,
even to me. Consolidating the above statements into this newly added vision statement seems more
appropriate as long as my suggested strategies relating to these paragraphs can be added as requested.
Under F. CITY HISTORY (page I-5), second paragraph: The name of the original ranch was
Ralicho Los Nogales, not Rancho de Los Nogales. Rancho de Los Nogales may be grammatically correct,
but that was not the ranch's name.
Under G. MAJOR ISSUES, 1. Land Use (page I-5 & 6): The very first goal mentioned in the 1983
Diamond Bar General Plan states, "1. Maintain the rural setting of the community through the retention and
maintenance of extensive amounts of natural open space and hillside vegetation." Ten years later, the second
sentence in the second paragraph of this section reads, "Many choices are needed as to if or how the City
wants its remaining open land to develop, especially land that may have been designed or restricted as open space
by previous development approvals through the County". The obvious change of attitude and commitment to
preserving open space in this city reflected by the differences in these two sentences is the major issue as
it pertains to land use. I attended every Public Workshop related to this General Plan revision. I don't
recall a single ".on -developer, private citizen participant in those Workshops arguing for this change. A
better sentence would read: "Over the objections of many private citizens, pressure from developers to develop
the City's supply of vacant land continue to mount, especially on vacant land that may have been designed or
restricted as open sp.;ce by previous development approvals through the County and, then, subsequently purchased
by our Mayor". (Also see Land Use Strategy 1.5.3)
The next to last sentence in this section states, (page I-6) "However, regional circulation studies,
sponsored by the Counties of Orange, Los Angeles and San Bernardino, have included a proposed
transportation corridor to resolve congestion impacts." There has NEVER been any study done on a
"Transportation Cersidor" for thia area. - -Thc only professionally, written -studies that have been doner-w+ere
done on a proposed "REGIONAL BYPASS ROADWAY".
Under G. MAJOR ISSUES, 2. Circulation (page I-6): Am I to understand that the potential
construction of Tonner Canyon Scenic Highway is no longer a "Major Circulation Issue"? You certainly
wouldn't think so by reading the two sentences listed here. I suggest the following: "Tonner Canyon Scenic
Highway has been proposed as a regional bypass roadway. This proposed roadway would connect the 60 Freeway
in the north (at or about Chino Hills Parkway/Phillips Ranch Road) to the 57 Freeway in the south (at or about
the Brea Canyon Road underpass). Although professionally generated traffic studies have shown this road to have
a major impact on helping to solve our City's surface street traffic congestion problems, local environmentalist
and other private citizens have expressed a considerable amount of concern as to whether the construction of this
roadway through S.E.A. 15 can be accomplished in an environmentally sensitive manner."
Under G. MAJOR ISSUES, 3. Economics (page I-6): This section doesn't really accurately describe
the Major Issues as it relates to "Economics". Does it? Does this council really want to vote in favor of
a document that states, unequivocally, that there are "increased or new costs associated with" the mere act
Mr. Terry Belanger
RE: Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated 6/16/93
June 18, 1993
of becoming a City? How can we ignore here the impact on our municipal finances caused by the actions
of and decisions made by the State Legislature and Governor's office?
Isn't the Major Issue here one of "what are we going to do with our remaining vacant land, our
existing commercial areas and our in-home businesses to spur economic development and avoid a known,
less than propitious economic future without embracing a political philosophy that mandates increased taxes,
assessments and fees."?
The last sentence presently reads, "The sphere of influence area, as well as several large parcels in
and around town, contains potential fiscal resources which may be sources of municipal revenues." That's
not an issue statement. I read that and say to myself; "Yeah. So? What's the problem?"
If we are going to be honest about what the Major Issue is as it pertains to Economics, shouldn't
this section say something about the Council's reluctance to discuss my proposal to actively pursue those
projects mentioned in my suggested revisions to our Vision Statement listed above? If not that, then how
about the Council's reluctance to articulate a true comprehensive vision of their own?
I'm not going to re -write this section for you. I can tell you that if you had taken the time to
address this problem from the beginning, there probably would never have been a referendum in the first
place. Further, in my opinion, if you can forge acceptable compromise verbiage for this paragraph, you'll
understand the motivation behind and thereby probably avoid any potential future lawsuit over this
document.
3
Mr. Terry Belanger
RE: Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated 6/16/93
June 18, 1993
IN THE LAND USE ELEMENT:
Under C EXISTING CONDITIONS, 3. Non -Residential Uses (page I-3): In the last paragraph of
this section, does the 158 acres listed for schools include the acreage for Diamond Ranch High School?
Also, the last sentence refers to Figure I-1. However, on page I-6, the Figure this sentence refers to is
entitled Figure I-5. (The Land Use Map on page I-24 has no Figure number or page number listed.)
NOTE: On page 1-3, paragraph "4. Sphere of Influence" should be paragraph "3. Sphere of
Influence".
Under C. EXISTING CONDITIONS, Figure 1-5 Existing Land Use (page I-6): The undeveloped
property (vacant/open lands) owned by R -n -P, Arceiro and the Pathfinder Homeowners' Association north
of Pathfinder is not accurately depicted on the map. Neither is the R -n -P owned property south of Grand
by the County line, nor the 10 acres owned by Eric Stone adjacent to Golden Springs Road south of the
60 Freeway.
Also, I don't understand why the rest of the vacant land surrounding our City was not included on
this map. The vacant land outside our borders west of Brea Canyon Cut-off and south of Pathfinder was
included. I'd like to see the additional vacant land west of our City and south of Pathfinder included in this
map. I would also like to see the property owned by the City of Industry's Urban Development Agency,
on both sides of our city, included as vacant land on this map, as well as the vacant land that makes up the
Citi of Brea's Sphere of Influence. These changes would help dramatize the fact that we do not exist in
a vacuum.
Under D. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ISSUES, 1. Land Use Mix, a. Determination of Deed
Restriction Status (page I-7): If the City conducted an "Open Land Survey" to identify prior development
restrictions (both map and deed), why is there an issue that states there is a need to confirm those
restrictions? That's not the issue. The issue is whether or not the City is going to enforce those restrictions
(both map and deed) and, if so, how?
Under D. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ISSUES, 1. Land Use Mix, b. Open Space Definition and
Preservation (page I-7): Although I don't object to implementing a feasible open space acquisition program,
this section does not acknowledge the fact that the City's own legal council has stated five times during the
Public Hearings on this document that the Council has the full authority to enforce both existing MAP and
DEED restrictions on vacant land, thereby preserving that vacant land, without it being legally termed a
"taking of private prop�rry": Tht"�.'sec'Tion-leaves the impression that the only way the City cah prey;&Ve open
space is by acquiring thh property. That is not true.
Under D. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ISSUES, 1. Land Use Mix, c. Economics, (page I-8): See
my comments above under G. MAJOR ISSUES, 3. Economics (page I-6).
Under D. LAND USE GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES (pages I-10 through I-23): I
would like to see the following changes.
Strategy l.l.l.d. Change this to 12 units per acre. (page I-11)
Strategy 1.1.1.e. Add: In conjunction with this plan's stated desire to bring a new limited
enrollment institution of higher learning (e.g., University of California) campus to that undeveloped area of the
City known as Tres Hermanos Ranch, designate a combination Residential/Retail/Commercial land use category
of Mixed Use (MIX) to be available for an as yet undefined area surrounding the associated 142 acre reclaimed
4
Mr. Terry Belanger
RE: Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated 6,16/93
June 18, 1993
water lake. As such, housing projects within this area could be built at densities higher than 16 units per acre
and at densities that would provide housing for all income segments of identified need (page I-11)
Strategy 1.2.5 (No Changes, but correct the spacing) (page I-13)
Strategy 1.2.6 Change to read: Broaden the range of, and encourage innovation in,
housing types when possible. Require development within all residential areas to provide amenities such as
common usable, active open space and recreational areas. (page I-13)
Strategy 1.3.1.c. Add: In conjunction with this plan's VISION STATEMENT's stated desire
to bring a new limited enrollment institution of higher learning (e.g., University of California) campus to that
undeveloped area of the City known as Tres Hermanos Ranch, a combination ResidentiallRetail/Commercial land
use categoty of Mixed Use (MIX) will be availablefor an as yet undefined area surrounding the associated 142
acre reclaimed water lake. As such, commercial projects which compliment and supplement these other planned
projects within this area (e.g., Hotel, conference center, etc.) will be pursued (page I-14)
Strategy 1.3.3.b. Add: Typical uses for the commerciallretail section of the mired use center
planned for Tres Hermanos Ranch include general retail, specialty retail, food and drug stores, restaurants,
financial institutions, lake front recreational or educational oriented businesses. (page I-14)
Strategy 1.3.5.e. Add: Actively promote plans to locate a limited enrollment institution of
higher learning (e.g., a University of California campus) and its associated mired use "City within a City" center
on Tres Hermanos Ranch in Diamond Bar. (page I-15)
DELETE existing Strategies 1,4.5, 1.4.6 & 1.4.7. (page I-16)
ADD the following new Strategies 1.4.5, 1.4.6, 1.4.7 & 1.4.8: (page I-16)
1.4.5 Pursue a cooperative program with the Pomona Unified School District to construct a
high school in the City of Diamond Bar on Tres Hermanos Ranch.
a• As part of the high school development, pursue development of major joint use meeting
& recreational facilities (e.g., auditorium, pool, ball fields, tennis courts, footballlsoccer
stadium, gymnasium, etc.).
1.4.6 Actively promote plans to locate a limited enrollment it -Ly ttiion• of higher•learning-
(e.g., aUniversity of California campus) on Tres Hermanos Ranch in Diamond Bar.
As part of the school development, pursue development of major joint use
meeting & recreational facilities (e.g., auditorium, conference center, pool, ball
fields, tennis courts, footballlsoccer stadium, gymnasium, etc.).
b• Coordinate these plans with other plans for this property (i e., The 1200 acre
potable water lake, the 142 acre reclaimed water lake, the High School and
Tonner Canyon Scenic Highway).
1.4.7 Actively promote plans by the Metropolitan Water District and the City of Industry's
Urban Development Agency to locate a 1200 acre potable water lake on lower Tres
Hermanos Ranch in Chino Hills and Diamond Bar.
5
Mr. Terry Belanger
RE: Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated 6/16/93
June 18, 1993
a. Coordinate these plans with other plans for this property (i.e., The 142 acre
reclaimed water lake, the University, the High School and Tonner Canyon
Scenic Highway).
b. Promote the inclusion of public recreational access and activities in this lake's
plans.
1.4.8 Actively promote plans by the City of Industry's Urban Development Agency to locate
a 142 acre reclaimed water lake on Tres Hermanos Ranch in Diamond Bar.
a. Coordinate these plans with other plans for this property (Le., The 12M acre
potable water lake, the University, the High School and Tonner Canyon Scenic
Highway).
b. Promote the inclusion of public recreational access and activities in this lake's
plans.
C. Promote the inclusion of mixed use zoning (retail/residential/contniercial) on
property surrounding the lake.
DELETE existing Strategy 1.5.1. (page I-16)
ADD the new Strategy 1.5.1: (page I-16)
1.5.1 Maintain an inventory of previous dedications, designations or decisions regarding open
space made by the County of Los Angeles and the City.
a. Require developers of vacant land to provide appropriate title or other ownership
documents to identify any development restrictions (map or deed) on the
property.
b. Development rights on these properties are limited by the covenants recorded
when these tracts were subdivided. During that subdivision process, the owners
covenanted (i. e., promised) that, notwithstanding any zones on these properties,
these lands would not be developed or, in some specific cases, developed with
only one residential unit. It is the City s policy to not renegotiate these prior
map and/or deed restrictions unless, after a separate public hearing it is deemed
that doing so would benefit the community.
Strategy 1.5.2.d. Add: Areas that should be considered for future park facilities include, but
are not limited to, Sandstone Canyon, Upper Sycamore Canyon, and Tonner Carryon. (page I-16)
Strategy 1.5.3 Change to read: Define "open space" lands as vacant, map or deed -
restricted, undeveloped properties to be retained for purposes of visual amenity, environmental resource
protection and fire/slope stability hazard abatement. Recreational facilities, both active and passive, which
incorporate undeveloped land, are not included in this definition. Require a public hearing prior to any City
action which would change existing map or deed restrictions on such open space lands. (page I-16)
G
Mr. Terry Belanger
RF* Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated 6/16/93
June 18, 1993
Strategy 2,1,1 Add the followin
S new paragraphs "C' through "g.": (page 1_19)
)
The City will actively encourage rhe development of the Ties Herntanos Water
Resource Project's potable water reservoir in ond Chino Hills and pursue a project
that will benefit and correspwith the other projects on
Tonner Canyon in Diamond Bar. Tres Herntnnos and
d. As the City pursues Possibility o
higher learning f locating a limited enrollment instituetion of
g g (e.g. University of California) in that portion of Tres Hermanos
Ranch in Diamond Bar, it will discuss with the City of Chino Hills th
possibility of that campus extending into a portion of Tres Hernlanos e
Ranch
in Chino Hills.
e. Citv will coordinate its efforts to construct Tonner Canyon
Highway with the City of Chino Hills, the Ci o Indus y (Road) Scenic
Agency, the Counties of San Bernardino and of
as we�l a Development
Metropolitan Water District,
f The City will monitor the progress of development proposals within the City
of Brea's northern sphere of influence and will coordinate the planning for
Diamond Bar's sphere of influence with the City of Brea.
& The City will pursue discussions with the City of Industry regarding Industry s
Plans for their Presently undeveloped
interchange, north and south of CrandrAvenue. operty eSWi h sup rior6015 Mutuafreewayty
beneficial planning this site has unique potential for stimulating economic
development throughout the region. Conespondin
the planning process, this site's potential of negatively iout
ly n pacatng dhlegCity of
Diamond Bar's residents' living environment is sign 1Y
impacting
Strategy 2.3.2 Add the following new paragraph "a.":
a• Pursue a vanery of funding mechanisms for new development in addition to
developer fees and construction by developers, including tax increment
(redevelopment) financing. (page I-20)
Strategy 4.2.2 Change to read: Seek annexation of unincorporated areas west o the
including expansion of the adopted Sphere of Influence, where the following findings can be mad
I-23) fCity,
e. (page
Strategy 4.2.3Add: Pursue discussions with the City of Industry regarding. annexing their
Ur?+an Development Agency -owned acreage (Tres Herm
anos Ranch) in Chino Hills. (page I-23
Under REVISED - 6/16/93 - L.,4ND USE MAP )
Property as open space. (page I-24): Designate MAP and deed restricted
Mr. Terry Belanger
RE: Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated 6/16/93
June 18, 1993
IN THE HOUSING ELEMENT:
Under D. HOUSING AVAILABILITY, L Inventory of Land Suitable for Residential Development
(page II -12): Change the last paragraph to read:
"The reason for a lack of detail in the Diamond Bar land use inventory is that most of the large
vacant properties remaining in the City are hilly with little infrastructure in place or immediately adjacent.
The largest vacant parcel, called "Tres Hermans", is designated as "Agricultural" because there are no
approved development or improvement plans at present. It is intended that specific housing projects within
Tres Hermanos be built in conjunction with this plan's stated desire to bring a new limited enrollment institution
of higher learning (e.g., University of California) campus and its associated mixed use area surrounding the 142
acre reclaimed water lake to this property. As such, housing projects within Tres Hermanos could be built at
densities higher than 16 units per acre and at densities that would provide housing for all income segments
of identified need."
Under D. HOUSING AVAILABILITY, L Inventory of Land Suitable for Residential Developmen4 a.
Residential Land Use Categories (page II -13): Add the following new paragraph to read:
Mixed Use
In conjunction with this plan's VISION STA TEMENT's stated desire to bring a new limited enrollment institution
of higher learning (e.g., University of California) campus to that undeveloped area of the City known as Tres
Hermanos Ranch, a combination ResidentiallRetail/Commercial land use category of Mixed Use (MIX) will be
available for an as yet undefined area surrounding the associated 142 acre reclaimed water lake. As such,
commercial projects which compliment and supplement these other planned projects within this area (e.g., Hotel,
conference center, etc.) will be pursued
Under n HOUSING AVAILABILITY, L Inventory of Land Suitable of Residential Development, C.
Development Standards and Land Use Controls (page I1-15): Change the last paragraph to read:
"It is much more realistic and cost effective for the City to plan that the majority of affordable
housing to be built in Diamond Bar will be built on the Tres Hermans Ranch in conjunction with this
plan's stated desire to bring a new limited enrollment institution of higher learning (e.g., University of California)
campus and its associated mixed use area surrounding the 142 acre reclaimed water lake to this prop Th
_The
City of Diamond Bar believes that the combination of density bonuses and a City housing in lieu fund, along
with use of State and federal programs will be sufficient to meet its proportionate share of low and
moderate income housing needs.
Strategy 1.1.12 Add: Actively promote plans to locate a limited enrollment institution of higher
learning (e.g., a University of California campus) and the City of Industry s Urban Development Agency's plan
to locate a 142 acre reclaimed water lake on Tres Hermanos Ranch in Diamond Bar. (page II -21)
a. Coordinate these plans with other plans for this property (Le., The 1200 acre
potable water lake, the High School and Tonner Canyon Scenic Highway).
b. Promote the inclusion of mixed use zoning (retail/residentiallcommercial) on
property surrounding the lake in order to promote economic development of
the City while helping the City meet its existing housing needs as well as those
associated with the new institution of higher learning.
Mr. Terry Belanger
RE: Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated 6/16/93
June 18, 1993
IN THE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ELEMENT:
DELETE existing Strategy 1.3.9. (page III -12)
ADD new Strategies 1.3.9, 1.3.10, 1.3.11 and 1.3.12 as follows:
1.3.9 Pursue a cooperative program with the Pomona Unified School District to construct
a high school in the City of Diamond Bar on Tres Herntanos Ranch.
a. As part of the high school development pursue develop
meeting & recreational facilities evelo ment of major joint use
football/soccer stadium gymna(gsium, etc.). , auditorium, pool, ball fields, tennis courts,
1.3.10 Actively promote plans to locate a limited enrollment .
a University of California campus) on Tres Herntanos Ranch to Diamond Bar. institution of higher learning (e.g.,
a. As art o the school develo ntent
P f P , Pursue development of major joint use
meeting &recreational facilities (e.g., auditorium, conference center, pool, ball
fields, tennis courts, football/soccer stadium, gymnasium, etc.).
b• Coordinate these plans with other plans for this ro e
potable water lake, the acre
142 acre reclaimed w isplake, trtyheuHighhSchoo� and
Tonner Canyon Scenic Highway).
1.3.11 Actively promote plans by the Metropolitan Water District and the City of Indus s
Urban Development Agency to locate a 1200 acre potable water lake on lower Tres
Hermanos Ranch in Chino Hills and Diamond Bar.
a. Coordinate these plans with other plans for this
reclaimed water lake, property (4e., The 142 acre
the University, the High School and Tonner Canyon
Scenic Highway).
b• Promote the inclusion of public recreational access and activities iiz iliis hike s
plans.
1 312 Actively promote plans rhe
a 142 acre reclaimed water lake City of Industry's Urban Development Agency to locate
on Tres Hermans Ranch in Diamond Bar.
a Coordinate these plans with other plans for this property (t: e., The 1200 acre
potable water lake, the University, the High School
Highway), and Tonner Canyon Scenic
b• Promote the inclusion of public recreational access and activities in this lake's
plans.
Mr. Terry Belanger
RE: Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated 6/16/93
June 18, 1993
IN THE PUBLIC SERVICES AND FACILITIES ELEMENT:
Under C. PUBLIC SERVICES AND FACILITIES ISSUES, (page VI -3): It is interesting that the
first paragraph discusses the supposed need for an ill-defined Civic Center. I don't recall anyone during the
Public Workshops arguing on behalf of this project. Additionally, I have yet to understand why the same
arguments the Council voiced against a proposed University idea weren't also used against this proposed
Civic Center idea. Or, better yet, why the same logic and arguments in favor of the Civic Center idea
weren't used in favor of the University idea.... or, the lakes..... or the roads. This is where the question
"Where's the (beef) vision?" most dramatically begs for an answer.
DELETE existing Strategy 1.1.5.a (page VI -4)
ADD new Strategies 1.1.5.a & 1.1.5.b as follows: (page VI -4)
Strategy 1.1.5.a: Actively promote plans by the Metropolitan Water District and the City of
Industry's Urban Development Agency to locate a 1200 acre potable water lake
on lower Tres Hermanos Ranch in Chino Hills and Diamond Bar.
1. Coordinate these plans with other plans for this property (Le., The
142 acre reclaimed water lake, the University, the High School and
Tonner Canyon Scenic Highway).
2. Promote the inclusion of public recreational access and activities in
this lakes plans.
Strategy 1.1.5.b: Actively promote plans by the City of Industry's Urban Development Agency
to locate a 142 acre reclaimed water lake on Tres Hermanos Ranch in
Diamond Bar.
1. Coordinate these plans with other plans for this property (Le., The 1200
acre potable water lake, the University, the High School and Tonner
Canyon Scenic Highway).
2. Promote the 'inclitsion cTf public recreational access rand activities in
this lake's plans.
3. Promote the inclusion of mixed use zoning
(retaillresidential/comn:ercial) on property surrounding the lake.
REVISE Strategy 1.3.1 as follows: (page VI -5)
Strategy 1.3.1 Pursue a cooperative program with fhe Gity of industry aft the Pomona Unified
School District to seevFe land and construct a high school in in the City
of Diamond Bar on Tres Hermanos Ranch. As part of the high school development,
pursue development of major joint use meeting & recreational facilities (e.g., auditorium, pool, ball fields,
tennis courts, football/soccer stadium, gymnasium, etc.).
11
Mr. Terry Belanger
RE: Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated 6/16/93
June 18, 1993
DELETE existing Strategy 1.4.2 (page VI -5) Note:
system has no plans to locate a new campus in Southern California. Besides, we already have
Cal State Fullerton in our local area and there is little The California State University and Colleges
located this close to those existing Cal -State campuses. likelihood that a new Cs would
and
Cal -State campus would be
ADD a new Strategy 1.4.2 as follows: (page VI -5)
Strategy 1,4,2 Actively promote plans to loc
(e.g, a University of California campus) e ata limited enrollment institution of higher learning
on Tres Hern:anRanch in Diamond Bar.
a' As Pan of the school develo ntent
recreational facilities e. , p 'pursue development of major joint use meeting &
( g, actditoriun1, conference center, p004 ball fields, tennis courts,
football/soccer stadium, gymnasium, etc.).
b• Coordinate these plans with other plans for this property
water lake, the 142 acre reclaimed water lake, acre pota
Scenic Highway). the High Schoolnd,�nner Canyoln
Respectfully,
Mr. Gary L. Ncely
344 Can
oecove Drive
Diamond Bar, California 91765
909/861-6100
12
Mr. Terry Belanger
RE: Draft Diamond Bar General Plan, dated 6/16/93
June 18, 1993
IN THE CIRCULATION ELEMENT:
This is STILL A MESS.
First of all, with the exception of the Housing Element (whose format is dictated by the State), all
the other elements are divided into four basic subsections: Introduction, Existing Conditions, Major Issues
and, then, Goals, Objectives and Strategies. I suggest this Element be completely reorganized and re-
written to reflect a continuity of presentation with the rest of the General Plan.
Everything you need to write a good Circulation Element is already here or in the Master
Environmental Assessment document. It just needs to be reorganized and rewritten.
The original Circulation Element was written by a separate consultant. It had a continuity of
thought. Although it never got around to drawing a line on a map to show the proposed roads, it
documented existing and foreseeable traffic conditions and, then, came to certain logical conclusions.
The General Plan Advisory Committee didn't like the conclusions, so it left the documentation in,
took the conclusions out and forwarded the document on to the Planning Commission. Not the Traffic
Commission. The Planning Commission.
The Traffic Commission had about three days to look at it before the Planning Commission
discussed the document. The Traffic Commissioners were required to give their opinions regarding this
Element before the Planning Commission as average citizens.
The Planning Commission decided to reinstate the conclusions that the G.P.A.C, had taken out, but
then, they illogically (supposedly) moved all of the documentation supporting those conclusions to the
M.E.A. document. The net result is that the Council received a document that made no sense at all.
(That doesn't exr!ain why the Council approved this mess. It just explains how it got this way.) The
proposed chat;bt% to this Element shown in this Draft only compound the problem.
Additionally, the map entitled V-1 (page V-12) is wrong. The arrows are in the wrong place and
will probably stay that way until this Council owns up to its legal responsibility to DRAW
THE LINES FOR THE PROPOSED ROADS ON THE MAP!
Page V-1: Government Code Section 65302(b): A Circulation Element consisting of the general
location and extent of existing and propOSed major thoroughfares, transportation routes, terminals,
and other local public utilities and facilities, all correlated with the Land Use Element of the plan.
Land Use Element Page I-2: B. REQUIREMENTS: State law requires that General Plans be
comprehensive, internally consistent and long term........ Comprehensive: A General Plan must be a
comprehensive planning document, covering not only the geographic area within the City boundaries, but
also the areas adjacent to the City that bear a reasonable relationship to City planning.
Areas outside of the City linlltS may include the actual Sphere of Influence, as adopted
by L.A.F.C.O., or may be larger or different areas that create planning
constraints on the City.
10
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CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA
Mayor — Gary G. Miller
Mayor Pro Tem — Phyllis E. Papen
Councilman — John A. Forbing
Councilman — Gary H. Wemer
Councilman — Dexter D. MacBride
City Council Chambers
are located at:
South Coast Air Quality Management District A uditonum
21865 East Copley Drive
ease
retain om srno In ea#ing or drin m m # e ounce am rs
M EETING DATE: JUNE 29 , 19 9 3 Terrence L. Belanger
General Plan City Manager
Public Hearing
Andrew V. Arczynski
City Attorney
MEETING TIME: 7:00 p.m. Lynda Burgess
LOCATION: Board Hearing Room City Clerk
AW, 21865 E. Copley Dr.,
Copies of staff reports or other writ#en documentation relating to each item referred tai an this;agenda
are on file in the Office:of the City Clerk and are available for public inspection If you have questions
regarding
46 4000. item,'please contact the City Clerk at (909j 860-2488 during businesshours.
The City of Diamond Bar uses RECYCLED paper and encourages you to do the same.
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