HomeMy WebLinkAbout05/09/1995Cit
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AGENDA
Tuesday, May 9, 1995
6:30 P.M.
General Plan Public Hearing
South Coast Air Quality Management District
Auditorium
21865 East Copley Drive
Diamond Bar, California
Mayor Phyllis E. Papen
Mayor Pro Tem Gary H. Werner
Council Member Eileen R. Ansari
Council Member Clair W, Harmony
Council Member
City Manager
City Attorney
City Clerk
Gary G. Miller
Terrence L. Belanger
Michael Jenkins
Lynda Burgess
Copies of staff reports, or other written documentation relating to agenda items, are on file in the Office of the
City Clerk, and are available for public inspection. If you have questions regarding an agenda item,
please contact the City Clerk at (909) 860-2489 during regular business hours.
In an effort to comply with the requirements of Title I1 of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990,
the City of Diamond Bar requires that any person in need of any type of special equipment, assistance or
accommodation(s) in order to communicate at a City public meeting, must inform the City Clerk
a minimum of 72 hours prior to the scheduled meeting.
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Please refrain from smoking, eating or drinking `
in the Council Chambers.„
t
The City of Diamond Bar uses rqgycled paper
and encourages you to do the same.
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PUBLIC INPUT
The meetings of the Diamond Bap- City Council uti open to the pulp,ic. A member of the public may address the
Council on the subject of one or more agenda items and/or other items of which are within the subject matter
jurisdiction of the Diamond Bar City Council. A request to address, the Council should be submitted in writing to
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As a general rule the opportunity for public comments will tare place at the discretion of the Chair. However, in
order to facilitate the meeting, persons who are interested parties for an item may be requested to give their
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total amount of time allocated for public testimony based on the number of people requesting to spear and the
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In accordance with Government Code Section 54954.3(a) the Chair may from time to time dispense with public
comment on items previously considered by the Council. (Does not apply to Committee meetings.)
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posting of the agenda, upon making certain findings, the Council may act on an item that is not on the posted
agenda.
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The Chair shall order removed from the Council Chambers any parson who commits the following acts in respect
to a regular or special meeting of the Diamond Bar City Council.
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orderly course of said meeting.
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INFORMATION RELATING TO AGENDAS AND ACTIONS OF THE COUNCIL
Agendas for the regular Diamond Bat City Council meetings are prepared by the City Clerk and are available 72
hours prior to the meeting. Agendas are available electronically and may be accessed by a personal computer
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NOTE: ACTION MAY BE TAKEN ON ANY ITEM IDEN-ji IFIED ON THE AGENDA.
THIS MEETING IS BEING BROADCAST LIVE BY JONES INTERCABLE
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YOU ARE GIVING YOUR PERMISSION TO BE TELEVISED.
1. CALL TO ORDER:
PLEDGE OP ALLEGIANCE:
ROLL CALL:
2. PUBLIC HEARING:
3.
Next Resolution No. 95-20
Next Ordinance No. 05(1995)
6:30 p.m. May 9, 1995
Mayor Papen
Council Members Ansari, Harmony,
Miller, Mayor Pro Tem Werner, Mayor
Papen
2.1 (A) RESOLUTION NO. 95 -XX: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR INCORPORATING
RESOLUTION NO. 92-43 BY REFERENCE AND CERTIFYING THE
ADEQUACY OF THE ADDENDUM TO THE GENERAL PLAN
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT AND MAKING FINDINGS THEREON
PURSUANT TO THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT:
(B) RESOLUTION NO. 95 -XX: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR ADOPTING THE 1995
GENERAL PLAN FOR THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR - State law
requires the preparation and adoption of a comprehensive,
long term General Plan for the physical development of
all property within the City and any land outside its
boundaries which bears relation to its planning. Upon
adoption, the General Plan, through its numerous goals,
objectives and strategies, will define development
strategy for the next twenty years. The Draft 1995
General Plan has been developed since January 1994 and
is presented for adoption.
Recommended Action: It is recommended that the City
Council receive a presentation from City staff, open the
public hearing, receive testimony, close the public
hearing, review the General Plan materials, approve the
documents and adopt Resolution Nos. 95 -XX and 95 -XX.
Requested by: Community Development Director
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
4. ADJOURNMENT:
TO:
FROM:
ADDRESS:
ORGANIZATION:
AGENDA #/SUBJ
VOLUNTARY REQUEST TO ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL
CITY CLERK
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DATE:
PHONE:
67'1f e -/-a / /,O-Zt,
I:€xpect to address the Council on the subject agenda item. Please have the Council Minutes reflect my
name and address as written above.
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Signature
FA
TO:
FROM:
ADDRESS:
ORGANIZATION:
VOLUNTARY REQUEST TO ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA #/SUBJECT:
CITY CLERK q
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<"'�O Scc u�S O / ► r''ie.�� c a PHONE: 2/3 - Y/3'
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I expect to address the Council on the subject agenda item. Please have the Council Minutes reflect my
name and address as written above.
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Signat
VOLUNTARY REQUEST TO ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL
TO: CITY CLERK
FROM: ��.(/ C DATE:
ADDRESS: PHONE:
ORGANIZATION:
AGENDA #/SUBJECT:iC
I expect to address the Council on the subject agenda item. Please have the Council Minutes reflect my
name and address as written above. —A
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Si nature
TO:
FROM:
ADDRESS:
ORGANIZATION
VOLUNTARY REQUEST TO ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA #/SUBJECT:
CITY CLERK
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DATE: '51 (I /I's
PHONE: 170? "
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I expect to address the Council on the subject agenda item. Please have the Council Minutes reflect my
name and address as written above.
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Signa re
TO:
FROM:
ADDRESS:
ORGANIZATION:
VOLUNTARY REQUEST TO ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA #/SUBJECT
CITY CLERK
DATE:
PHONE:
I expect to address the Council on the subject agenda item. Please have the Council Minutes reflect my
name and address as written above.
Signature
CITY OF DIAMOND BA.k
AGENDA REPORT AGENDA NO.
TO: Terrence L. Belanger, City Manager
MEETING DATE: May 9, 1995 REPORT DATE: May 5, 1995
FROM: James DeStefano, Community Development Director
TITLE: Adoption of the 1995 General Plan
SUMMARY: State law requires the preparation and adoption of a comprehensive, long term General Plan for
the physical development of all property within the City and any land outside its boundaries which bears
relation to its planning. Upon adoption, the General Plan, through its numerous goals, objectives and
strategies, will define development strategy for the next twenty years. The Draft 1995 General Plan has been
developed since January 1994 and is presented for adoption.
On October 17, 1994 the Planning Commission recommended approval and adoption of the Draft General Plan.
The City Council began its detailed review of the documents on January 9, 1995. The Council has examined
the Introduction, Vision Statement, Resource Management Element (RME), Public Services and Facilities
Element (PSFE), Public Health and Safety Element (PHSE), Circulation Element (CE), Housing Element (HE),
and the Land Use Element (LUE). The purpose of the May 9, 1995 public hearing is to consider adoption of
the 1995 General Plan.
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council receive a presentation from City staff, open
the public hearing, receive testimony, close the public hearing, review the General Plan materials, approve the
documents and adopt Resolution Nos. 95-xx and 95-xx.
LIST OF ATTACHMENTS:R Staff Report
_ Resolution(s)
_ Ordinances(s)
_ Agreement(s)
Other
EXTERNAL DISTRIBUTION: Library
_ Public Hearing Notification
_ Bid Specification (on file in City Clerk's Office)
SUBMITTAL CHECKLIST:
1.
Has the resolution, ordinance or agreement been reviewed
X Yes _ No
by the City Attorney?
N/A
2.
Does the report require a majority or 4/5 vote?
MAJORITY
3.
Has environmental impact been assessed?
X Yes _ No
4.
Has the report been reviewed by a Commission?
X Yes _ No
Which Commission?
5.
Are other departments affected by the report?
X Yes _ No
Report discussed with the following affected departments:
ALL
REy.IEWED BY:
City Manager Assistant City Manager
Community Development Director
AGENDA REPORT AGENDA NO.
TO: Terrence L. Belanger, City Manager
MEETING DATE: May 9, 1995 REPORT DATE: May 5, 1995
FROM: James DeStefano, Community Development Director
TITLE: Adoption of the 1995 General Plan
SUMMARY: State law requires the preparation and adoption of a comprehensive, long term General Plan for
the physical development of all property within the City and any land outside its boundaries which bears
relation to its planning. Upon adoption, the General Plan, through its numerous goals, objectives and
strategies, will define development strategy for the next twenty years. The Draft 1995 General Plan has been
developed since January 1994 and is presented for adoption.
On October 17, 1994 the Planning Commission recommended approval and adoption of the Draft General Plan.
The City Council began its detailed review of the documents on January 9, 1995. The Council has examined
the Introduction, Vision Statement, Resource Management Element (RME), Public Services and Facilities
Element (PSFE), Public Health and Safety Element (PHSE), Circulation Element (CE), Housing Element (HE),
and the Land Use Element (LUE). The purpose of the May 9, 1995 public hearing is to consider adoption of
the 1995 General Plan.
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council receive a presentation from City staff, open
the public hearing, receive testimony, close the public hearing, review the General Plan materials, approve the
documents and adopt Resolution Nos. 95-xx and 95-xx.
LIST OF ATTACHMENTS:X Staff Report
_ Resolution(s)
_ Ordinances(s)
_ Agreement(s)
Other
EXTERNAL DISTRIBUTION: Library
_ Public Hearing Notification
Bid Specification (on file in City Clerk's Office)
SUBMITTAL CHECKLIST:
1. Has the resolution, ordinance or agreement been reviewed X Yes _ No
by the City Attorney. N/A
2. Does the report require a majority or 4/5 vote? MAJORITY
3. Has environmental impact been assessed? X Yes _ No
4. Has the report been reviewed by a Commission? X Yes _ No
Which Commission?
5. Are other departments affected by the report? X Yes _ No
Report discussed with the following affected departments: ALL
REVIEWED BY:
Teence L: Belanger Frank U )mes DeStefa�o
rr
Community Development Director
City Manager Assistant City Manager
CITY COUNCIL REPORT
AGENDA NO.
MEETING DATE: May 9, 1995
TO: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: Terrence L. Belanger, City Manager
SUBJECT: Adoption of the 1995 General Plan
ISSUE STATEMENT: State law requires the preparation and adoption of a comprehensive, long
term General Plan for the physical development of all property within the
City and any land outside its boundaries which bears relation to its
planning. Upon adoption, the General Plan, through its numerous goals,
objectives and strategies, will define development strategy for the next
twenty years. The Draft 1995 General Plan has been developed since
January 1994 and is presented for adoption.
BACKGROUND:
In January 1994 the City Council established a General Plan Advisory Committee to develop the General
Plan. GPAC recommendations crafted over a six month period were forwarded to the Planning
Commission for review and consideration in July 1994. The Planning Commission conducted numerous
public hearings between July and October 1994. On October 17, 1994 the Planning Commission
recommended that the City Council approve and adopt the Draft General Plan. The City Council began
its detailed review of the documents on January 9, 1995.
The Council has examined the Introduction, Vision Statement, Resource Management Element (RME),
Public Services and Facilities Element (PSFE), Public Health and Safety Element (PHSE), Circulation
Element (CE), Housing Element (HE), and the Land Use Element (LUE). The purpose of the May 9,
1995 public hearing is to consider adoption of the 1995 General Plan.
On March 6, 1995 the City Council concluded its initial review of the General Plan and directed the
preparation of final documents. The Council subsequently established a May 9, 1995 public hearing to
consider adoption of the documents. The latest draft of the General Plan, dated March 31, 1995, was
distributed on April 7, 1995 providing a 30 day publicly noticed review period as previously established
1
by the Council.
The March 31, 1995 draft General Plan was referred to the Planning Commission for review and
recommendation in accordance with California Government Code Section 65356. The Commission
conducted a noticed public meeting on April 10, 1995, reviewed the General Plan as directed by the
Council and has provided its report and recommendations in the form of the attached meeting minutes.
The General Plan document before the City Council has been developed over the last 16 months and 40
public meetings incorporating extensive community interest and involvement. The 20 year plan sets forth
numerous strategies responding to local and regional issues facing the City. This General Plan responds
to ongoing development pressures by limiting new residential growth to a maximum of approximately
1200 additional housing units to the 18,000 existing homes. The General Plan requires the creation of
a slope density ordinance and tree preservation ordinance both designed to preserve and protect existing
resources. New development proposals on larger sites will be required to dedicate open space areas for
permanent preservation. The General Plan does not permit the development of a roadway through
environmentally sensitive Tonner Canyon.
The Plan does incorporate a strong Vision Statement which seeks; retention of the rural/ country living
community character, preservation of open space resources, reducing regional traffic impacts on local
streets, promotion of viable commercial activity, well maintained housing, and a nurturing community
environment for all citizens.
The environmental impacts of the 1995 General Plan have been examined and compared with the
originally adopted General Plan. The Final Environmental Impact Report (FEIR) previously prepared and
certified (Resolution No. 92-43) adequately addresses the environmental impacts associated with the 1995
General Plan. The 1995 General Plan will not result in any new or more adverse environmental impacts
not already considered within the scope of the analysis contained the previously certified FOR. In
accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) an "Addendum" to the FEIR has been
prepared and is attached.
The 1995 General Plan contains all mandatory elements and legal contents required for adoption pursuant
to the California Government Code. The General Plan has been presented in the form of numerous
"draft" documents reflecting the input of the citizen based General Plan Advisory Committee, Planning
Commission, and City Council. The Plan has been a work in progress reflecting the layers of public
review. Attached to this report is a "clean" version of the last draft plan with the layers of revisions
removed. A clean copy of the General Plan will be used as an attachment to the adopting resolution.
2
RECOND IENDATION:
It is recommended that the City Council, receive a presentation from City staff, open the public hearing,
receive testimony, close the public hearing, review the General Plan materials, approve the documents
and adopt Resolution Nos. 95-xx and 95-xx.
PREPARED BY:
James DeStefano
Community Development Director
attachments: - Planning Commission minutes from the April 10, 1995 meeting.
- Letter from Mr. Konrad Bartlam, City of Brea, dated November 28, 1994
- Letter from Mr. Dorian Johnson, Bramalea California, dated November 16,
regarding traffic issues.
- Final Environmental Impact Report Addendum
- Mitigation Monitoring Program
- Draft Resolutions
- Draft General Plan dated May 5, 1995
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CA L'.F_RNIA
City )j" Brea
April 26, 1995
Mr. James DeStefano
Community Development Director
City of Diamond Bar
21660 E. Copley Drive, Suite 100
Diamond Bar, CA 91765-4177
SUBJECT: DIAMOND BAR DRAFT GENERAL PLAN
Dear Mr. DeStefano:
COtiitr'VVT
_ 1
2J
Thank you for giving us an opportunity to review the Diamond Bar Draft General Plan. We
understand that a public hearing is scheduled on the draft plan before the City of Diamond Bar
City Council on May 9, 1995. This letter represents the City of Brea's comments on the plan,
and we request that this letter be made a part of the public record prior to the City Council's
taking action on the matter.
Our biggest concern after review of the Draft Plan is in the area of Traffic and Circulation. The
following summarize our concerns:
• The Draft General Plan emphasizes a need for a regional by-pass roadway south
of Diamond Bar to divert regional through traffic from its local streets. Tonner,
Soquel, and Carbon Canyons have been identified as alternatives for this
roadway. The City of Brea is very concerned with the identifiers alternatives,
especially the Tonner Canyon area. Our concern stems from the fact that such
a roadway is absent from the City of Brea and the County of Orange Master Plan
of Arterial Highways. Brea cannot support a regional roadway through Tonner
Canyon area regardless of whether such a roadway is identified on the City of
Diamond Bar or the Los Angeles County Master Plan of Arterial Highways.
• The Draft General Plan mentions a proposed expansion on Carbon Canyon Road
(see page V-32, bullet 3). We are not aware of any proposed expansion aside
from future intersection improvements at Carbon Canyon Road and Valencia
City Council Bev Perry Burnie Dunlap Lynn Daucher Glenn G. Parker Kathy Wiser
Mayor Pro Tem Councilruoman Councilman Councilwoman
Civic & Cultural Center • Number One Civic Center Circle • Brea, California 92621-5758 • 714/990-7600 • FAX 714/990-2258
Mr. James DeStefano
April 26, 1995
Page 2 of 2
Avenue, and the Carbon Canyon Road expansion east of Valencia Avenue to
Valley View Avenue. The City of Brea cannot support any additional expansion
beyond Valley View to Orange/San Benardino County line.
• In terms of alternate modes of transportation (i.e., bikeways), we suggest that the
Draft General Plan provide future connection to Orange County. In our
observation, bicyclists from Diamond Bar area or vice versa, use Brea Canyon
Road as an access road to Orange County. We see this road as an ideal bikeway
connection between Los Angeles and Orange Counties. (For your information,
the City of Brea Bikeway Master Plan identifies Brea Canyon Road as a Class I
Bikeway to Orange/Los Angeles County line.)
Please feel free to call me at (714) 990-7674 if you any questions regarding Brea's comments.
Also, we would like to have a copy of the adopted General Plan when it becomes available.
Si rely,
Konradt Bartlam
City Planner
KBAzae\a-n.gp.nr
cc: Frank Benest, City Manager
James R. Cutts, Development Services Director
yl
April 26, 1995
Mayor Phyllis Papen
City Council Members
City of Diamond Bar
21660 East Copley Drive, Suite 100
Diamond Bar, California 91765-4177
RE: City of Diamond Bar General Plan
Honorable Mayor Papen:
On behalf of Bramalea, I would like to extend my general support of the Draft General Plan
as circulated on March 31, 1995. I would suggest, however, several minor changes strictly
in the technical issues as it relates to Planned Development Area 2. Specifically, I would
suggest the following changes of Strategy 1.6.1(b):
"PD -2 is comprised of approximately 400 vacant acres located in two non-
contiguous areas. Sub -Area A consists of approximately 325 acres located
east of Diamond Bar Boulevard, north of Grand Avenue, south of Gold Rush
Drive, at the terminus of Highcrest Drive. Sub -Area B consists of
approximately 75 acres located west east of Pantera Park. Appropriate land
uses for this 400 ± acre non-contiguous area include a maximum of 130 single
family detached residential dwelling units concentrated along the anticipated
extension of Highcrest Drive, a minimum of 75 percent of the total 400 acre
area set aside as dedicated open space. A two acre area located at the south
west east corner of Diamond Bar Boulevard and Gold Rush Drive should be
developed for public facility or commercial uses. In order to minimize
environmental impacts and maximize clustering, residential lots shall range in
size from 6,000 to 10,000 sgp feet."
April 26, 1995
Mayor Phyllis Papen
Page 2
Again, these suggested changes are merely technical in nature and I would hope that the
City Council would make these changes and adopt the General Plan as drafted.
Sinours,
Doran A. Johnson, AJ A.
Vice President, Planning
cc: Mr. Jim DeStefano
Mr. Terry Belanger
DAJ:mam
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MINUTES OF THE CITY
REGULAR MEETING OF THE
APRIL 10,
CALL TO ORDER
OF DIAMOND BAR
PLANNING COMMISSION
1995
Chairman Flamenbaum called the meeting to order at 7:10 p.m. at the
South Coast Air Quality Management Auditorium, 21865 East Copley
Drive, Diamond Bar, California.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The audience was led in the Pledge of Allegiance by Commissioner
Meyer.
ROLL CALL
Present: Commissioners: Chairman Flamenbaum, Vice
Chairman Huff, Meyer, Schad, Fong.
Also Present: Community Development Director James
DeStefano; Assistant Planner Ann Lungu;
Associate Planner Robert Searcy; Interim City
Attorney Michael Montgomery, Bob Rose
Community Services Director; Larry Ryan RJM
Design Group, Laura Stetson Cotton\Beland\
Associates; and Recording Secretary Carol
Dennis.
MATTERS FROM THE AUDIENCE/PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Dr. Donna Earnheart, Veterinarian, Village Animal Hospital,
Golden Springs Drive, addressed the Commission regarding the
change in signage at the Diamond Bar Village Shopping Center.
She asked what would be needed to request a variance for the
three 3 -foot signs to be enlarged to 15 foot signs which would
allow for a tenant listing.
Chair/ Flamenbaum responded that this item was reviewed by the
Planning Commission several months ago and it was approved and
passed on to the City Council. The current Diamond Bar Sign
Ordinance limits signs to a height of six feet. In this
instance, a variance was granted for the 10 foot signs. He
suggested that if Dr. Earnheart wishes to seek another
variance she would need to direct her request to the
landlord/ landowner who would make the application to the City.
Responding to Chair/ Flamenbaum, AstP/Lungu stated the three 10
foot signs are for tenant identification. Use of the space is
determined by the landlord.
April 10, 1995 Page 2 Planning commission
Dr. Dan Buffington, a Diamond Bar resident representing
Diamond Bar Associates (DBA) regarding Tract 47850 asked the
Planning Commission how the DBA can assist the Commission in
reaching a favorable conclusion during their review of the
project.
Chair/Flamenbaum declared the Public Comments portion of the
meeting closed.
Chair/Flamenbaum stated that the City Council is sending
Vesting Tentative Tract Map No. 47850 back to the Planning
Commission for its comments.
Responding to Chair/Flamenbaum, CDD/DeStefano stated that on
Thursday, April 6, the City Council determined that the
project should be returned to the Planning Commission for
review of all of the items that the Commission raised as
questions or comments requiring additional study. The
Planning Commission's meeting is not a public hearing. The
project has been referred to the Commission pursuant to a
section of the government code that does not require a public
hearing. However, it has been the history of this Planning
Commission to encourage public input which would be at the
Commission's discretion. City Council continued their public
hearing to May 16.
VC/Huff indicated his belief that the Commission could review
the entire project and stated he would like .to see the project
put through the usual Planning Commission process.
C/Schad concurred that the project should be reviewed in its
entirety as quickly as possible.
C/Fong stated that the project should be review through the
normal process of the Planning Commission including a public
hearing.
C/Meyer stated that at the direction of City Council, he will
seriously review the entire project.
Chair/Flamenbaum indicated that it is his understanding the
City Council has directed the Planning Commission to review
the entire project and return their comments to the Council.
April 10, 1995 Page 3 Planning Commission
ICA/Montgomery told the Commission he was involved in the
original agreement and he believes the City Council wants a
complete review of the project by the Planning Commission.
In response to the Planning Commission, Dr. Buffington stated
he would make an informed presentation on the 24 questions for
the Commission at the April 24 meeting.
CONSENT CALENDAR:
1. Minutes of March 27, 1995.
A motion was made by
approve the minutes
approved unanimously.
OLD BUSINESS - None
NEW BUSINESS:
C/Meyer and seconded by C/Schad to
as submitted. The motion was
1. Precise Alignment Feasibility Study for Citrus Valley
Medical Center.
AP/Searcy reported that the Planning Commission approved
the Conditional Use Permit and Development Review
applications for the Citrus Valley Medical Center on
October 24, 1994. As a condition of approval, the
Commission required the applicant to prepare a precise
alignment feasibility study and to transmit the study to
the Traffic and Transportation Commission for their
review and comments.
The study has been completed and transmitted to the
Traffic and Transportation Commission for review. An ad
hoc committee was created to analyze the study and to
provide comments to the Planning Commission. The
conclusion of the report recommends that the Planning
Commission discontinue further consideration of a third
or alternative access point. The costs would be
prohibitive and the benefits are project to be minimal.
Mr. Searcy referred the Commission to the written report
prepared by Traffic and Transportation Commissioner Todd
Chavers who headed the ad hoc committee.
AP/Searcy continued that following preparation of the
report, staff met with members of Citrus Valley Medical
Center and Calvary Chapel and both parties concur with
April 10, 1995 Page 4 Planning Commission
the findings of the Traffic and Transportation Committee.
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission receive and
file the report.
C/Meyer stated he had originally requested the precise
alignment which was intended to result in a realistic
mitigation measure for the long term traffic impacts
resulting from the Citrus Valley Medical Center facility
and the Calvary Chapel Church affecting the intersection
of Golden Springs Drive and Grand Avenue. He indicated
that if this report had been presented during the public
hearings for the church and the hospital, he would have
argued against approving either project. He further
stated that he is disappointment and dissatisfied with
the report and, in his judgment, there had not been any
realistic solutions from the professional staff
associated with either project. In addition, he cited
the commercial potential at the corner of Golden Springs
Drive and Grand Avenue which will further impact the
intersection. From a planning standpoint, a financing
program for improvements should be initiated by the
City's Engineering Department.
Craig Beam, development consultant for Citrus Valley
Health Partners, 2745 West Chapman, Suite 203, Orange
stated his firm concurs with staff's conclusion.
Responding to C/Meyer, he indicated they have been
reluctant to move forward with development until they are
certain all of the conditions have been met and if the
question of a precise alignment is going to be an open
condition, it places an undo burden on the project.
Jeff Subcheck, Dasco Development, stated his firm is
concerned that a access road would place an additional
burden on the intersection of Golden Springs Drive and
Grand Avenue. He indicated he concurs with staff's
conclusion.
Responding to C/Flamenbaum, AP/Searcy stated the Citrus
Valley Medical Center has complied with the conditions of
Phase I Conditional Use Permit.
CE/Myers stated that the study points out the cost of
such a roadway would far outweigh the benefits. The
impact of traffic to the intersection of Golden Springs
April 10, 1995 Page 5 Planning Commission
Drive and Grand Avenue is a regional problem that extends
to the freeways and inter -city travel.
A motion was made by C/Meyer and seconded by C/Schad to
reject the Precise Alignment Feasibility Study for Citrus
valley Medical Center as inadequate and to refer it back
to the City's Engineering Department. The motion was
approved 4-1 with the following roll call:
AYES: COMMISSIONERS: Meyer, Schad, Fong,
VC/Huff
NOES: COMMISSIONERS: Chair/Flamenbaum
ABSTAIN: COMMISSIONERS: None
ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS: None
A motion was made by C/Meyer and seconded by VC/Huff to
concur that Citrus Valley Medical Center has complied
with the Conditional Use Permit for Phase I of the
project. The motion was approved unanimously 5-0.
2. 1995 General Plan - city Council referral of specific
proposed modifications pursuant to Government Code
Section 65356 for review and recommendation.
CDD/DeStefano reported that the City's Planning
Commission, on October 17, 1994, recommended a Draft
General Plan to the City Council for consideration and
adoption. The City Council has considered the Planning
Commission's recommendation, received public testimony
and initiated additional changes through the course of
their review. In accordance with Government Code Section
65356, and at the direction of the City Council, the
matter has been returned to the Planning Commission in
order to review four areas of modification that the
Planning Commission had not previously discussed or
contemplated. These four areas are:
1. The establishment of a RH, High Density
Residential (20 du/acre) Land Use
classification;
2. The addition of Residential uses at a density
of 1 unit to 2 acres within the Agriculture
(AG) designation;
April 10, 1995 Page 6 Planning Commission
3. Revisions to the Land Use Element text
regarding the Planned Development
classification and areas so designated; and
4. Modifications to the Land Use Map reflecting
the above.
With respect to the High Density Residential (20
du/acre), establishment of this new class effects both
the Land Use Element and the Housing Element. The City
Council considered 54 sites for this new designation.
The majority were deemed not to be appropriate or
sufficient for housing purposes. The City Council felt
that by establishing the 20 unit per acre density, the
City would come much closer to meeting the housing goals
established by the State of California. A new
designation of Medium High Density Residential (16
du/acre) was created for the former maximum level of
density in the General Plan.
The second area of Residential uses at a density of 1
unit to 2 acres with the Agricultural (AG designation
applies only to the Sphere of Influence. The City
Council concluded that a Specific Plan overlay would be
most appropriate for future land use planning of this
property. The General Plan consultant pointed out the
need to establish a density or intensity maximum for this
Land Use classification. The City Council concurred with
the property owners to establish a Land Use classi-
fication consistent with the County zoning of A2/2
(residential uses at a maximum density of 1 unit to 2
acres).
With respect to revisions to the Land Use Element text
regarding the Planned Development classification and
areas so designated, the City Council, incorporating the
Memorandum of Understanding between Bramalea and the
City, specifically designated that 75% of the 400 acre
Bramalea property would be set aside as Open Space
dedicated to the public, that a maximum of 130 dwelling
units be permitted on the site and that a two acre site
be created at Gold Rush Drive and Diamond Bar Boulevard
for Commercial purposes. Planned Development Area #3 was
established for the corner of Grand Avenue and Golden
Springs Drive. Planned Development Area #4 has been
established for the Sandstone Canyon area. Site D at
April 10, 1995 Page 7 Planning Commission
Brea Canyon Road and Diamond Bar Boulevard has been
designated Planned Development Area #5.
The Land Use Map identifies the Planned Development
areas, properties identified as High Density Residential,
properties re -designated Medium High Density Residential,
the change to the Sphere of Influence to Agricultural
(AG) with a Specific Plan overlay and other changes
associated with the Land Use and Housing Element
modifications outlined.
Pursuant to Government Code 65356, City Council has
established a report due date of April 27, 1995 for the
Planning Commission's review and recommendation. The
City Council will conduct a public hearing on May 9, 1995
for adoption of the General Plan. Although this is not
a public hearing item, the Planning Commission is not
precluded from receiving testimony regarding the changes
being reviewed. He referred the Commission to a letter
dated April 10, 1995 received from the Boy Scouts of
America wherein they request consideration of a text
change regarding Specific Plan and for map changes that
were overlooked in the modifications of the General Plan.
CDD/DeStefano recommended that the Planning Commission
review the proposed changes and provide recommendations
to the City staff for assistance in evaluating the
proposed City Council changes.
Chair/Flamenbaum stated the Planning Commission would
received public testimony regarding the proposed General
Plan changes.
Tom Kolin, Chief Financial Officer, Boy Scouts of
America, Los Angeles area Council, referred to the April
10 letter stating a particular area of concern is Page I-
13 of the Housing Element and requested that the
following language under a. Specific Plan Area 1 be
excluded: "create fiscal benefits for the City and
enhance its infrastructure," so that it now reads: "SP -1
incorporates the Sphere of Influence area. This 3600
acre multiple ownership area contains unique biological
and open space resources. The formulation of a future
Specific Plan should incorporate provisions to protect
existing resources while minimizing future adverse
impacts to both the human and natural environment of the
April 10, 1995 Page 8 Planning Commission
City, as well as the region (see Strategy 1.1.4 of the
Circulation Element)."
Seeing no one else who wished to speak, Chair/Flamenbaum
returned the item to the Planning Commission for
deliberation.
The Planning Commission reviewed the four items proposed
for modification by the City Council and made the
following recommendations:
With respect to Item #1, "The establishment of RH, High
Density Residential (20 du/acre) Land Use
classification;", a motion was made by VC/Huff and
seconded by Chair/Flamenbaum to accept staff's
recommendation. The motion was approved unanimously.
Regarding Item #2, "The addition of Residential uses at
a density of 1 unit to 2 acres within the Agriculture
(AG) designation;" A motion was made by C/Meyer and
seconded by Chair/Flamenbaum to approve staff's
recommendation. The motion was approved 4-1 with the
following roll call:
AYES:
COMMISSIONERS:
NOES:
COMMISSIONERS:
ABSTAIN:
COMMISSIONERS'
ABSENT:
COMMISSIONERS:
Meyer, Chair/Flamenbaum,
Schad, Fong
VC/Huff
None
None
The following revisions were proposed for Item 13
"Revisions to the Land Use Element text regarding the
Planned Development classification and areas so
designated; and" as follows:
A motion was made by VC/Huff and seconded by C/Fong to
approve the recommendation to accept Planned Development
Areas 1, 2 and 3 on Pages I-19 and I-20. The motion was
approved unanimously.
Following discussion regarding Planned Development Area
4, Chair/Flamenbaum moved that the following recommended
wording for Page I-20 be approved: 11PD-4 consists of 78
vacant acres and is located west of Brea Canyon Road,
north of Peaceful Hills Road and south of South Pointe
Middle School. Land uses appropriate for this planned
development area include single family detached
April 10, 1995 Page 9 Planning commission
residential, public facilities and open space. A maximum
of 165 dwelling units may be permitted incorporating a
minimum of 30 percent of the 78 acre site which shall be
located on the eastern portion of the site) set aside as
open space. The most sensitive portion of the site
(located on the eastern portion) shall be retained in
permanent open space. The site plan shall incorporate
the planning and site preparation to accommodate the
development of Larkstone Park of a suitable size and
location to serve the neighborhood as approved by the
City. The development of Larkstone Park shall be in
addition to the 30 percent set aside as open space." The
motion was seconded by C/Schad. The recommendation was
approved unanimously.
A motion was made by C/Fong and seconded by C/Schad that
the Commission recommended that PD -5 retain the previous
designation of Public Facilities (PF). The motion was
approved 3-2 with the following roll call:
AYES: COMMISSIONERS: Fong, Schad, VC/Huff
NOES: COMMISSIONERS: Meyer, Chair/Flamenbaum
ABSTAIN: COMMISSIONERS: None
ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS: None
A motion was made by C/Meyer and seconded by
Chair/Flamenbaum to approve Item #4 "Modifications to the
Land Use Map reflecting the above." The motion was
approved unanimously.
Chair/Flamenbaum requested Commissioner's comments
regarding the entire General Plan.
C/Meyer indicated he preferred the original
recommendation by the Planning Commission regarding the
SASAK property that the conditional approval of the
Tentative Map was conditioned to be part of the entire
Master Plan. The original project that 20 units standing
on its own was contrary to the surrounding neighborhood
and made no sense on its own merits and only marginal
sense as part of the overall project.
C/Fong stated the park area designated as Private
Recreation within "The Country Estates" is now designated
as Open Space. He indicated he feels it is more
appropriately designated as Private Recreation.
April 10, 1995 Page 10 Planning Commission
C/Fong further stated he is concerned about the strip
along Brea Canyon Road adjacent to PD -4 designated
Commercial. He indicated he believes the hill should be
retained as a sound barrier for the homes to the west of
the SR 57 and should be part of PD -4.
C/Fong continued that he objects to changing the RNP
property designation to RR from OS.
C/Schad stated he agrees with C/Fong's comments and in
particular, those regarding the Commercial strip along
Brea Canyon Road. He indicated he likes the first
General Plan that was put together by the citizens.
C/Huff concurred with the statements regarding the SASAK
property indicating the citizens would like more open
space and fewer houses. He stated the new designation
seems a clear opportunity to allow development. For the
City Council to change the number of houses on the unit
without any significant trade-off to.the City makes no
sense. He asked that the City Council reconsider this
item.
Chair/Flamenbaum stated he concurs with the SASAK
property position voiced by other Commissioners and
wishes the City Council would reconsider their decision.
Secondly, he indicated the RNP property should be left as
Open Space. He noted that the YMCA is indicated "Private
Park" and "The Country Estates" park is noted as Open
Space and should be listed as Private Recreation. He
commented that he is not in favor of the Housing Element
as rewritten.
C/Meyer asked about the Multi -Family designation
indicated on the map for the park on the north side of
the Pomona Freeway at Golden Springs Drive.
CDD/DeStefano stated that this is a graphic error which
will be correct to indicate "Park".
3. Replacement Identification Signs for City Parks.
CSD/Rose stated that the agenda item is in reference to
park monument signs proposed for the City parks in
Diamond Bar. Over the past year and at the direction of
the City Council, the City's Community Services
Department staff and the Parks and Recreation Commission
have worked to develop an appropriate replacement for the
April 10, 1995 Page 11 Planning Commission
existing park identification signs that currently list
Los Angeles County as the operator of the parks. The
parks are actually owned and operated by the City of
Diamond Bar and the City Council has directed that the
Los Angeles County statement be replaced with the City of
Diamond Bar. Staff and the Parks and Recreation
Commission have reviewed a variety of options for
accomplishing the task and those considered include
retrofitting the existing signs with acrylic or wood
overlays, replacing the existing signs with new wood
signs, and replacement of the existing signs with new
concrete monument signs. Staff and the Parks and
Recreation Commission have recommended replacement of the
existing signs with new concrete monument signs as being
in the best interest of the community.
The proposed signs provide a common theme in architecture
that includes a distinctive design, river rock footing
and a bronze replica of the City's logo. The park name
is featured prominently on the sign along with the
verbiage, "City of Diamond Bar". The signs provide clear
identification of the City's parks, provides a visible
element that is consistent in each of the park sites and
projects an image of a high quality that is inherent in
the City's parks.
CSD/Rose continued that the process used in developing
the designs include review of the existing park
identification signs, review of Sign Ordinance 5A which
was adopted by the City in 1994 and the need to properly
identify the parks in a consistent manner with a high
level of quality. There is a proposed design for a 12
foot long sign and for an eight foot long sign. The 12
foot sign is proposed to be located on the major
boulevards adjacent to the parks which would include
Golden Springs Drive for Sycamore Canyon Park, and
Peterson Park, Grand Avenue for the southern entrance of
Summit Ridge Park and Brea Canyon Road for Heritage Park.
The eight foot signs are proposed for the more
residential streets which include Forest Canyon Drive for
Paul C. Grove Park, Maple Hill Road adjacent to Maple
Hill Park, Starshine Road for Starshine Park and Summit
Ridge Road for the east entrance of Summit Ridge Park.
Potential future signage is proposed for lighting and
landscape district #39 pocket parks.
April 10, 1995 Page 12 Planning Commission
Pursuant to Section 112 of the City's Sign Ordinance, the
design of the monument signs for the City's parks have
been submitted to the Planning Commission for advisory
architectural review. Staff recommends that the Planning
Commission review the proposed monument signs for all
City Parks and prepare comments which will be forwarded
to City Council for consideration.
Larry Ryan, RJM Design Group, stated that the sign is
proposed to be a pre -cast concrete panel which would
allow for fabrication and mass creation thus reducing the
overall cost. The signs would be brought to the field
and erected on a concrete footing with a rock cobble
base. The process envisioned a rural character with
integral color concrete, sandblast finish, rock cobble
base or veneered base and the bronze plaque. The
lettering would be conveyed through the use of recessed
formed letters to minimize vandalism. The bronze plaque
is set into a recessed area in order to discourage
vandalism. The overriding consideration in determining
the size of the sign lettering is readability from a
traveling vehicle. To that end, the module relates to a
10 to 12 foot sign increment.
Responding to C/Schad, Mr. Ryan stated that lighting for
the signs has not been considered. However, this aspect
could certainly be added to the program. C/Schad stated
he is concerned that lighting should be considered prior
to setting in the concrete base or foundation for the
sign.
Responding to C/Meyer, AP/Searcy stated that the private
sector would be required to provide an address on their
signs. Mr. Ryan indicated that although the inclusion of
an address is not part of the sign proposal, staff has
discussed adding the address of the park at the base of
the sign.
In response to VC/Huff, AP/Searcy indicated that the
proposed signs exceed the maximum sign height allowed for
free standing signs. However, the City would consider
six inches diminimous. VC/Huff stated that if there is
a specific height requirement for the commercial sector,
the City should abide by the same rules.
AP/Searcy responded to Chair/Flamenbaum that the Planning
Commission is acting as an advisory body for City signs.
April 10, 1995 Page 13 Planning Commission
Although the project is funded from Quimby, consideration
of the costs is not excluded from the Commissionfs
consideration.
A motion was made by C/Meyer and seconded by
Chair/Flamenbaum to recommend that the replacement
identifications signs for Diamond Bar City parks will
substantially comply with the height requirement, that
the address will be added to the sign, that bougainvillea
will be planted on the back side of the sign and that
lighting will be added where appropriate. The motion was
approved unanimously.
4. Amendment to Planned Sign Program No. 92-1.
AstP/Lungu reported that in October, 1992, the Planning
Commission approved a Planned Sign Program for Sunset
Village Shopping Center located at 1241 S. Grand Avenue.
The property owner has had requests from tenants for a
larger color palate and larger selection in lettering
style. The existing program has white lettering only and
the applicant is requesting the addition of red, green
and yellow. The existing lettering styles are Helvetica
Medium and Helvetica Bold. The applicant is requesting
the addition of Clarendon Bold. AstP/Lungu stated this
application does not require a public hearing.
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission approve the
amendment to Planned Sign Program No. 92-1(1), Findings
of Fact, and conditions as listed within the resolution.
A motion was made by C/Schad and seconded by C/Meyer to
approve the amendment to Planned Sign Program No. 92-1.
The motion was approved unanimously.
PUBLIC HEARING - None
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS - None
PLANNING COMMISSION ITEMS:
Chair/Flamenbaum thanked staff for the schedule of future
events for the Planning Commission.
C/Schad asked when the Planning Commission would begin
authoring a Development Code. CDD/DeStefano responded that an
estimate of $100,000 for budgeting of the Development Code is
being forwarded for incorporation into the City Budget for
1995/1996.
April 10, 1995
Page 14 Planning Commission
CDD/DeStefano reminded the Planning Commission will review the
Capital Improvement program on May 8.
Chair/ Flamenbaum suggested that consideration be given to
standards for building development signs.
ANNOUNCEMENTS - None
ADJOURNMENT:
Chair/ Flamenbaum, declared the meeting adjourned at 10:30 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
/s/ James DeStefano
James DeStefano
Community Development Director
Attest:
/s/ Bruce Flamenbaum
Bruce Flamenbaum
Chairman
RESOURCE
MANAGEMENT
ELEMENT
GENERAL PLAN
1. If a later activity would have effects that were not examined in the program EIR,
a new Initial Study would need to be prepared, leading to either an EIR or a
Negative Declaration.
2. If the, agency finds that, pursuant to Section 15162, no new effects could occur
or no new mitigation measures would be required, the agency can approve the
activity as being within the scope of the project covered by the program EIR,
and no new environmental documentation would'be required.
An agency shall incorporate feasible mitigation measures and alternatives
developed in the program EIR into subsequent actions in the program.
4. Where the subsequent activities involve site specific operation, the agency should
use a written checklist or similar device to document the evaluation of the site
and the activity to determine whether the environmental effects of the operation
were covered in the program EIR."
In addition, time and changed circumstances might change conditions, so that additional
environmental review is required. CEQA also encourages the "tiering" of EIRs, which is defined
in Section 15385 as follows:
"Tiering" refers to the coverage of general matters in broader EIRs (such as on
general plans or policy statements), with subsequent narrower EIRs or,
ultimately, site-specific EIRs incorporating by reference the general discussions
and concentrating solely on the issues specific to the EIR subsequently prepared:
Tiering is appropriate when the sequence of EIRs is from a general plan, policy,
or program EIR to a program, plan, or policy EIR or lesser scope or to a site
specific EIR.
Therefore, a site-specific EIR need not examine environmental effects of a proposal if those
effects have already been adequately addressed in the program EIR.
2. MITIGATION MONITORING
In compliance with Public Resource Code Section 21081.6 (enacted by the passage of AB 3180),
public agencies approving projects which may cause significant environmental impacts must
monitor the measures outlined in the EIR to mitigate the impacts of the project. For this General
Plan (the "proposed project"), the goals, objectives, policies, and specific actions, are the
proposed mitigation measures of the updated General Plan.
The following Mitigation Monitoring Program is designed to monitor these goals, objectives, and
strategies, and was approved by the City Council along with the General Plan, FEIR, and
Addendum.
Diamond Bar General Plan Implementation and Mitigation Monitoring
Program
MMP -5
I. LAND USE
"IT IS THE OVERALL GOAL OF THE LAND USE ELEMENT TO ENSURE THAT THE LAND USES AND
DEVELOPMENT DECISIONS OF DIAMOND BAR ENHANCE THE QUALITY OF LIFE FOR ITS
RESIDENTS. "
GOAL 1. "Consistent with the Vision statement, maintain a mix of land uses which enhance
the quality of life of Diamond Bar residents, consistent with its desire to maintain its
quality and distinctiveness as a planned community, providing a balance of
development and preservation of significant open space areas."
Objective 1.1 Establish a land use classification system and development to gulde the public and
private use of land within the City and its sphere of influence.
1.1.1 Identify residential land use categories to
provide an appropriate range of housing
types for residential development within
the City and its sphere of influence.
a. The maximum gross density of
Rural Residential (RR) will be 1.0
dwelling unit per gross acre (1
du/ac) or less, depending upon the
establishment of a slope denisity
ordinance.
b. Designate existing developed single
family detached residential parcels as
Low Density Residential (RL) on the
Land Use map. The maximum
density of Low Density Residential
areas will be 3.0 dwelling units per
gross acre (3 du/ac), or existing
density, whichever is greater.
C. Designate existing single family
detached subdivisions as Low
Medium Residential (RLM) on the
Land Use map. The maximum
density of Low Medium Density
Residential areas will be 5.0
dwelling units per gross acre
(5 du/ac), or existing density,
whichever is greater.
New Program
City Council, upon
Planning
Commission
recommendation
Ongoing
General fund;
development
review fees
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -I-1
d. Designate existing, planned
townhome condominium, apartment,
mobilehome, and other multiple
family residential properties as
Medium Density Residential (RM)
on the Land Use map. Maintain a
maximum density of 12.0 dwelling
units per gross acre (12 du/ac) within
these areas.
e. Designate existing and planned
townhome,condominium, apartment,
and other multiple family residential
properties as Medium High Density
Residential (RMH) on the Land Use
Map. Maintain a maximum density
of 16.0 dwelling units per gross acre
(16 du/ac) within these areas
f. Designate existing and proposed high
density condominium and apartment
developmentsand other high density
properties as High Density
Residential (RED on the Land Use
Map. Maintain a maximum density
of 20.0 du/ac within these areas.
g. Develop a slope density ordinance
which shall be applied to all land use
designations in the City. Such slope
density ordinance shall reduce the
number of dwelling units otherwise
designated for the property as a
function of average slope of the land
in question in excess of 25 percent.
Average slope is defined as follows:
I = Contour
interval in feet
Slope = 0.002296I L L = Summation of
A length of all
contours in feet
A = Area in
acres of parcel
b e i n g
considered
1.1.2 Ensure that the land use classification
system provides adequate separation and
buffering of less active residential uses
from more intense land uses, major
streets, and highways.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAYS, 1995 MMP -I-2
1.1.3 Identify commercial land use categories to
provide for a range of retail and service
uses to serve City needs and to guide
development within the City and its
Sphere of Influence.
a. Encourage active pursuit of
commercial developmentin Gateway
Corporate Center as a means of
increasing City revenues.
b. Establish General Commercial (C)
areas to provide for regional,
freeway -oriented, and/or community
retail and service commercial uses.
Developmentof General Commercial
areas will maintain a floor area ratio
(FAR) between 0.25 and 1.00.
C. Designate CommercialOffce (CO)
land use areas on diverse, mixed use
commercial retail, office, and service
properties. Development within
Commercial Office areas will
maintain an FAR between 0.25 and
1.00.
d. Designate Professional Office (OP)
arcasto providefor the establishment
of office -based working
environments for general,
professional, and administrative
offices, as well as support uses.
Development within Professional
Office areas will maintain an FAR
between 0.25 and 1.00.
1.1.4 Areas designated Light Industrial (1) on
the General Plan Land Use map are to
provide for light industrial, research and
development, and office -based industrial
firms seeking a pleasant and attractive
working environment, as well as for
business 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.
New Program
New Program
City Council, upon
Planning
Commission
recommendation
City Council, upon
Planning
Commission
recommendation
Ongoing
Ongoing
General fund;
development
review fees
General fund;
development
review fees
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -I-3
1.1.5 The Public Facifities (PF) designation is
designed to identify existing or potential
(future) sites for necessarypublic 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.
1.1.6 Areas designated as Open Space (OS)
provide recreational opportunities,
preservation of scenic and environmental
values, protection of resources (water
reclamation and conservation), protection
of public safety and preservationof animal
life. This designation also includes lands
which may have been restricted to open
space by map restriction,
deed/designation, condition, covenant
and/or restriction or by an Open Space
Easement pursuant to California
Government Code (COC) Section 51070
et sequential and Section 64499 et
sequential. This designation carries with
it a maximum development potential of
one single family unit per parcel, unless
construction was previously restricted or
prohibited on such properties by the
County of Los Angeles.
1.1.7 Provide Park (PIQ designations for
existing and future public parks. Designate
the Diamond Bar Country Club as Golf
Course (GC). Designate major private
recreational facilities (e.g. Little League
ball fields, YMCA, as Private Recreation
(PR)
New Program
New Program
New Program
City Council, upon
Planning
Commission
recommendation
City Council, upon
Planning
Commission
recommendation
City Council, upon
Planning
Commission
recommendation
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
General fund;
development
review fees
General fund;
development
review fees
General fund;
development
review fees
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -I-4
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5,1995 MMP -1-5
..
dui'
1.1.8 Encourage the innovative use of land
New program
Community
Ongoing
Development
resourcesand developmentof a variety of
Development
review fees
housing and other development types,
Director;
provide a means to coordinate the public
development
and private provision of services and
review bodies
facilities, and address the unique needs of
certain lands by recognizing a Phnned
Developmst (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. Permitted
land use denisity/ intensity on properties
designated with a PD designation are
governed by the base land use
designations as described within Strategy
1.6.1 of the Land Use Element.
1.1.9 Encourage the innovative use of land
Community
Ongoing
Development
resources and developmentof a variety of
Existing
Development
review fees
housing and other development types,
program
Director;
provide a means to coordinate the public
development
and private provision of services and
review bodies
facilities, and address the unique needs of
certain lands by recognizing an Specific
Plan (SP) overlay designation for:
a. for large scale development areas in
which residential, commercial,
recreational, public facilities, and
other land uses may be permitted;
and,
b. large acreage property(ies) in excess
often (10) acres that are proposedto
be annexed into the City.
At such time as development might be
proposed, require formulation of a specific
plan pursuant to the provisions of the
Government Code Section 65450 for the
Sphere of Influence 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 Circulation Element).
1.1.10 Within the Agricukural(AG) designation,
Existing
Community
Ongoing
Development
permit single family residential at a
program
Development
review fees
maximum density of 1.0 dwelling unit per
Director;
2 gross acres (1.0 du/2w), agricultural
development
and compatible open space, public facility,
review bodies
and recreation uses (see also Land Use
Element Strategies 1.6.3 and 1.6.4).
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5,1995 MMP -1-5
Objective 1.2 Preserve and maintain the quality of existing residential neighborhoods while
offering a variety of housing opportunities, including mixed land uses.
1.2.1 Maintain a system of identifiable, Existing City Council, Ongoing General fund;
complementary neighborhoods, providing Program upon Planning development
neighborhood identity signage, where Commission review fees
appropriate, and ensuring that such recommendation;
signage is well maintained over time. Planning
Department
1.2.2 Maintain the integrity of residential
Existing
City Council,
Ongoing
General fund;
neighborhoods by discouraging through
Program
upon Planning
development
traffic and preventing the creation of new
Commission
review fees
major roadway connections through
recommendation;
existing residential neighborhoods.
Planning
Department
1.2.3 Maintain residential auras which protect
Existing
Planning
Ongoing
General fund;
natural resources, hillsides, and scenic
Program
Department;
development
areas.
development
review fees
review bodies
a. Development in hillside areas
should be designed to be
compatible with surrounding natural
areas, compatible to the extent
practical with surrounding
development, aesthetically pleasing,
and provide views from the
development, but not at the expense
of views of the development.
b. Earthwork in hillside areas should
utilize contour or landform grading.
C. Minimize grading to retain natural
vegetation and topography.
1.2.4 Maintain residential areas which provide
for ownership of single family housing
and require that new development be
compatible with the prevailing character
of the surrounding neighborhood.
1.2.5 Enact Development Code Provision for
the development of second units on a single
single family parcel. Ensure that the single
family character and integrity of the
neighborhood si
1.2.5 Enact Development Code Provision for
the development of second units on a
single family parcel. Ensure that the
single family character and integrity of
the neighborhood be protected and that
road, water, and sewer systems are
capable of supporting such development.
Existing
Program
Existing
Program
Planning
Department;
development
review bodies
Planning
Department;
development
review bodies
Ongoing
Ongoing
General fund;
development
review fees
General fund;
development
review fees
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MMGATION MONTfORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -I-6
1.2.6 Broaden the range of, and encourage New Program Community Ongoing General fund;
innovation in, housing types. Require Development development
developments within all Residential areas Director; review fees
to provide amenities such as common development
usable, active open space and review bodies
recreational attar, when possible.
1.2.7 Where consistent with other provisions of Existing Community Ongoing General fund;
the Diamond Bar General Plan, Program Development development
encourage the provision of low and Director; review fees
moderate cost housing (see also Housing development
Goals, Objectives and Shategies in this review bodies
document).
Objective 1.3 Designate adequate land for retail and service commercial, professional services,
and other revenue generating uses in sq icient quantity to meet the City's needs.
1.3.1 Designate such lands for commercial use Existing
as are necessary to minimize sales tax Program
leakage out of Diamond Bar and to
capture the City's fair share of sales tax
revenue.
a. Identify retail needs which are not
being met in the community.
b. Define and implement an economic
development program to attract
needed commercial uses to the City.
City Manager's
Office
Complete
determination
within 1 year
Of General
Plan
adoption,
implement
Program
within 90
days
thereafter
General fund
1.3.2 Encourage the development of businesses
that take advantage of locations visible
from the freeway, where appropriate.
Existing
Program
Planning
Department;
development
review bodies
Ongoing
General fund;
development
review fees
1.3.3 Encourage neighborhood serving retail
Existing
Planning
Ongoing
General fund;
and service commercial uses.
Program
Department;
development
development
review fees
a. Typical uses in the Commercial
review bodies
Office category include general
retail, specialty retail, markets, food
and drug stores, commercial
services, restaurants, , automotive
repair and service, hardware and
home improvement centers,
recreation, professional and business
offices, financial institutions,
medical offices, and real estate
offices.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -I-7
1.3.4 Encourage the retention, rehabilitation,
Existing
Planning
Ongoing
General fund;
refurbishment, and/or expansion of
Program
Department;
development
existing business establishments.
development
inview fees
Residentially compatible home
review bodies
occupations, where consistent with other
review bodies
provisions of the General Plan and
Development Code, should be allowed
subject to standards enacted to protect the
privacy and residential character of the
New project
City Manager's
Underway
General Fund
neighborhood.
Office;
1.3.5 Encourage revenue generating uses in
Existing
Planning
Ongoing
General fund;
locations that serve the City's needs.
Program
Department;
development
available to local residents and to
development
review fees
generate needed sales tax revenue.
review bodies
a. Professional Office areas are to
provide for the establishment of
office -based working environments
for general, professional, and
administrative offices, as well as
necessary support uses.
b. The Gateway Corporate Center in
particular offers large lots with a
capacity for multi -story buildings,
and is designed to take advantage of
unique locations with good freeway
access, as well as access to
miscellaneous support uses.
Buildings adjacent to the freeways
along Gateway Drive and
Bridgegate Drive should have a
maximum of six (6) stories.
Buildings along Copley Drive and
Valley Vista Drive should have a
maximum of eight (8) stories.
Trees native to the area should be
used to obstruct unsightly views.
1.3.6 Encourage consolidation of individual
New project
Community
Ongoing
Development
lots into a coordinated project; encourage
Development
review fees
provision of enhanced amenities such as
Director,
public art, plaza areae, open space and
development
landscaping, and pedestrian facilities in
review bodies
excess of required minimums; or
provision of housing within a mixed use
project.
1.3.7 Undertake programs to target
New project
City Manager's
Underway
General Fund
revitalization of existing commercial uses
Office;
and selected new retail uses needed to
Community
expand the range of goods and services
Development
available to local residents and to
Director
generate needed sales tax revenue.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -I-8
.. .
....XX
:: .......:.' ..
Vii* ..:.:.... :...... .
__ ...
Objective 1.4 Designate adequate land for educational, cultural, recreational, and public service
activities to meet the needs of Diamond Bar residents.
1.4.1 Ensure that land owned and purchased
New Program
Community
Ongoing
General fund;
for public use by public agencies is
Development
development
designated on the Land Use Map for public
Director; City
review fees
purposes. Specific uses within the Public
manager's office
Facilities category, as shown on the Land
Use Map include water facilities, fire
stations, schools, parks, libraries, and
similar facilities.
1.4.2 Promote joint development and use of
Existing
Parks and
Ongoing
General fund;
parks and open space facilities with
Program
Recreation
park
adjacent jurisdictions; promote
Director; Parka
development
development of joint school/park sites and
Commission
funds
public amenities.
1.4.3 When a public agency determines that land
Existing
Community
Ongoing
General fund
it owns is no longer needed, ensure that the
Program
Development
property is offered to other agencies,
Director; City
including the City of Diamond Bar, for
Manager'soffrce
public uses, prior to conversionto private
sector use.
1.4.4 Designate and pursue acquisition of a
Existing
Parks and
Complete site
General fund;
centralized site for use as a civic/multi-
Program
Recreation
identification
park
purpose community center.
Director; Parks
within 1 year
development
Commission
of General
funds
Plan adoption
1.4.5 Pursue development of major joint use
New Program
Parks and
Ongoing
General fund;
recreation and meeting facilities as part of
Recreation
park
educational facility development.
Director; Parks
development
Commission
funds
1.4.6 Work with Tres Hermans property
New Program
Parks and
Ongoing
General fund;
owner(s)to incorporate,whomappropriate,
Recreation
park
educational/cultural,recrmtionalandpublic
Director; Parks
development
services to include arterial highway access
Commission
funds
to future schools.
1.4.7 Work with neighboring jurisdictions and
New Program
Parks and
Ongoing
General fund;
other agencies in the coordination and
Recreation
park
designation of educational, cultural and
Director; Parks
development
recreational plans to include arterial
Commission
funds
highway access to future schools.
Objective 1.5 Maintain a feeling of open space within the community by identifying and preserving an
adequate amount of open land.
1.5.1 Develop an Open Space program which
Existing
Planning
Ongoing
Development
will identify and preserve open space land
Program
Department
review fees
and rank its importance consistent with
community needs, objectivesand financial
capability. As part of the Slope Density
Scale Ordinance, develop a formula for the
preservationof open space.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -I-9
PUBLIC HEALTH
and SAFETY
ELEMENT
GENERAL PLAN
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
A. Introduction ............................... III -1
B. Existing Conditions ............................ III -2
C. Resource Management Issues ...................... III -7
D. Goals, Objectives, and Implementation Strategies .......... 111-9
LIST OF TABLES
PAGE
TABLE
III_ I Local Recreational Facilities ....................... III -3
M. RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ELEMENT
A. INTRODUC 10N of city and county
ere first aired to � a � issues
open Space Elements and conservation Elements wsg� �nservation also overlap
Diamond Bar, many resources" and "open space
General Plans in 1970- Within Dian► for the preservation of natural Guidelines). As a result of
related to open space, such as "oP� spacefor
of California General Plan
for the managed production of resources
o General Plan requirements have been combined �� a
this overlap and interdependency, fi1ese
Resource Management Element, which is permitted under State law.
within its jurisdiction. The
its role as a responsible steward of all lands of the
Diamond Bar recognizes " land" issues, defined by Section 65560(b)
Management Element deals with "open -space which is essentially unimproved and devoted
Resource ManaB or area of land or water ones: Natural resources;
Government Code as M anY P uses encompass four principal categories: of this
use... . �n space and public health and safety. The first Part
to open space outdoor recreation; and parks and recreation.
managed production of resources visual resources, biological resources,
Element addresses open space vel managing local natural
ement Element also establishes strategies for effectively
s rtion of the General Plan is concerned with
The Resource Manag or neglect- Thi Portion
such as water (' reclaimed
revert waste, destruction) g including
resources to P and utilization of natural resources
recommended in state law, agriculture
the conservation, development, of solid wastes
water), energy, and the disposal and reuse are analyzed.and mineral resources are two other natural resources that
It is the intent of the Resource Management Element to
f which will conserve natural resources, Preserve
Create and Wn an open space system community here, Provide open space for
scenic beauty, promote a healthy public safety�o
outdoor recreation, and protect the
resources needed � support urban and rural development
limits on the natural and ensure that those resources are used
Identify its Sphere of Influence,
within the City and � P
wisely and not abused• of urban
system which enhances the livability
Provide a park, motion and open space neighborhoods; Preserving
b Providing paw for residential d meeting the open space
and suburban �scx eand other open space resources;
significant natural, of Diamond Bar residents.
and recreational needs
designated
Management Element is closely related to the Land Use Element as open
The Resource must on the Land Use map.
for open space must be consistent with designations reasons source Management Element are similarly addressed
space for public health and Element
in the Public Health and Safety
May 5, 1995
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS
1. Open Space and Visual Resources
with outstanding views of natural slopes
Diamond Bar is well known as a hillside residential community with
City that constitute potential open space
and ridgelines. 'There are a number of undeveloped areas City's Sphere of Influence offers tremendous
resources. The portion of Tonner Canyon that is within the Ci
open space opportunities and visual resources.
and ridges have provided a distinctive visual identity to the community's natural and
The natural slopes
developed areas.
2, Biological Resources
native plants and animals, these resources
several areas that support nti P auna which once inhabited
While Diamond Bar still contains e years. The native flora and icatural and recent urban
have undergone considerable transition over a el ped mss• �storical agr►
the City have been largely eliminated v etative cover. Animals that once inhabited the
of natural eg to the southwest, south, southeast,
development have removforced
fob �m nay undisturbed arm
valley floor have largely
and east of the City limits- on, a portion of
ses the middle 3,600 acres of Tonner Cant
The City's Sphere of Influence encompas SEA) by Los Angeles County due to its wealth of
on contains extensive stands of riparian, oak, and walnut
which is considered a "Significant Ecological Area ( the California
biological resources• This portion of the cant' tient native plant habitats by
considered sensitive and impo Population
of native animals,
woodland plants, which are Tonner Canyon supports a diverse pop on habitat may also
Department of Fish and fie• l cottontail rabbit, coyote, and deer. The �Y
including the California ground squirre , erect Stephen'
kangaroo rat, several species of mice and
als such as the endang this area, including several species of
support other life her. Numerous birds also utilize sensitive species of
possibly the California gnatcatc protected under California Fish and Game laws. Aust outside the City
hawks and owls, which are all p rtion of the canyon, although it was j
pond turtle was also observed in the upper Po
limits and Sphere of Influence.
3, Parks and Recreation
and recreation facilities within the City's boundaries that provideactive
There are several existing park residents- The City has seven developed parks
ty�
and passive recreational oPpoin
rtunities to City and one joint park
The City also has two undeveloped pp exist at the eight
size from 2 acres to 26 acres. Small athletic fields and playgrounds ium exist at
Walnut Valley Unified School District. le on a limited basis for use by City
elementary and two intermediate schools in the City • More extensive fields and a gyms
Diamond Bar High School. These facilities are tions throuade gh short term agreements with the Walnut
recreational programs and by local athletic organize„
e Diamond Bar golf course, „The Country Estates
Unified School District and the Pomona Unified School District. There are also several quasi -
Valley
onal facilities, including �d Table I11-1 describes local recreation
public and private recreational
per, YMCA and Little League fields on Sunset Crossing
Road-
facilities-recreation
encies recommend a minimum of 2 acres of developed active P
The State and National recreation ag ands per 1 X000 residents. The City ratio of 1.1
parkland and 0.5 acres of undeveloped or passive paiid
May 5, 1995
B. EMSTING CONDITIONS
1. Open Space and Visual Resources
with outstanding views of natural slopes
Diamond Bar is well known as a hillside residential community
City that constitute potential open space
and ridgelines. There are a number of undeveloped at thithe City's Sphere of Influence offers tremendous
resources. The portion of Tonner Cant' wl
open space opportunities and visual resources. and
natural slopes e visual identity to the community's natural
The ria P� and ridges have provided a distinctiv
developed areas.
2, Biological Resources
While Diamond Bar still contains several areas that support native plants and animals, these resources
The native flora and fauna which once inhabited
have undergone considerable transition Over developed m areas• Historical agricultural and recent urban
el eliminated vegetative cover. Animals that once inhabited the
the City have been largely of natural eg south, southeast,
development have removed large areas �m nearby undisturbed areas to the southwest,
valley floor have largely been forced
and east of the City limits. on, a portion of
ses the middle 3,600 acres of Tonner Cant'
The City's Sphere of Influence 11" SEA) by Los Angeles County due to its wealth of
on contains extensive stands of riparian, oak, and walnut
which is considered a "Significant Ecological Area � the California
biological resources' This P°�On of the cant' important native plant habitats by
considered sensitive and ts a diverse population of native animals,
woodland plants, Which n are a Tonner Cany°II ° on habitat may also
Department of Fish and Gam • cottontail rabbit, coyote, and deer. The cant'
including the California ground squirrel,hen's kangaroo rat, several species of mice and
animals such as the endangered Step this area, including several species of
support other life tcher. Numerous birds also utilize species of
possibly the California gnatca ��, Fish and Game laws. A sensitive spec
portion Californiafo the canyon, although it was just outside the City
hawks and owls, which are all Protected
pond turtle was also observed in the upper
limits and Sphere of Influence.
3, Parks and Recreation
vide active
and recreation facilities within the City's boundaries that pro ging in
There are several existing P has seven developed Parks
ty Widl
and passive recreational opportunities to City residents. The City and one joint park
to 26 acres • The City also has two undeveloped parks exist at the eight
size from 2 acres athletic fields and playgrounds ium exist at
Walnut Valley Unified School District. Small extensive basis for use by City
elementary and two intermediate schools in the are made areailabl on a limited a gymnasium for
Diamond Bar High School. These facilities tions through short term agreements with the Walnut
recreational programs and by local athletic organize am also several quasi'
Valley Unified School District and the Pomona Unified School. District.golf course, "The Country Estates"
recreational facilities, including the Diamond Bar g
public and privatefields on Sunset Crossing Road• Table III -1 describes local recreation
park, YMCA and Little League
facilities.of developed active public
The State and National recreation agencies recommend2 acres
Parklands per a minimum of Of residents. The City ratio of 1.1
parkland and 0.5 acres of undeveloped or passive parkl
May 5, 1995
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acres of developed public parkland per 1,000 residents' is under the State and National recreation
agencies 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 Estates" park. Only
residents of "The Country Estates" 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 mills 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 patio to the north (which contains Puddingstone Lake).
Within the City, the 57 Freeway is designated as a proposed State Scenic Ifigbway• It extends from the
southwest to the northeast City limits, and includes views of trees, rolling hills, grazing cattle, and snow-
capped mountains.
4. Water Resources
One of the fundamental long-term constraints for both urban and rural development is the availability and
quality of water. As throughout Southern California, water availability has become, and will remain,
a major resource constraint facing Diamond Bar. The strategies for this section focus on the actions
which must be taken to ensure the continuing supply of water needed to support Diamond Bar's future.
A complete discussion of water resources is in the Master Environmental Assessment.
Water is provided to the area by the Three Valleys Municipal Water District but locally distributed
through the Walcott Valley Municipal Water District. Ultimately, almost all local water districts receive
most of their imported water (other than groundwater) from the Metropolitan Water District (MWD).
As a result of the recent six-year Statewide drought, the MWD has restricted local water supplies by 25
percent through the imposition of surcharges on water that was supplied in excess of these levels. A
complete discussion of peak demand water supply requirements is in the Master Environmental
Assessment. A Master Plan of Water is being Prepared by the Walnut Valley Water Municipal District
Which estimates a buildout population for Diamond Bar of approximately 75,000 residents, which is
higher than the estimated buildout of the City. The degree to which the modest amount ogrowth
on h
projected by the General Plan can be accommodated by the local water districts will depend
regional availability of water.
—� tonly developed public parks are included in this figure. The 1.1 acres per l,000 population ratio does not
include privately owned recreation facilities or the Diamond Bar Golf Course, and thus includes only the 59.4 acres of
publicly owned parks.
Diamond Bar General Plan Resource Management
III -5
May 5, 1995
5. Energy Resources
The availability of energy resources is a growing societal concern. Urban and suburban land uses within
the City all rely on the availability of a continuing supply of affordable energy resources. However,
recent experience has been that unless society's awareness of the critical nature of energy availability is
increased, significant dislocations in the economy and local quality of life can result. Energy
conservation is not only necessary to the continued functioning of modern society, but provides
immediate benefits to individuals and businesses in utility bill savings and improved air quality. The
strategies provided in this section propose energy efficient building and land use practices. Many other
actions needed to conserve energy require cooperation with Federal and State agencies, as well as with
public utilities, which have indicated their interest in promoting energy conservation.
6. Solid waste
Landfill disposal of solid wastes and the conservation of recyclable materials have become important
public concerns by reason of the diminishing capacity of landfill space and growing environmental
problems facing our State. For this reason, the State Legislature passed the California Integrated Waste
Management Act of 1989 (AB939). The Act, also known as Public Resources Code Section 41000 et.
seq., requires each city to prepare, adopt, and implement a Source Reduction and Recycling Element
(SRRE) which identifies how that jurisdiction will divert, through a combination of source reduction,
recycling, and composting programs, 25 percent of solid wastes from landfill disposal by 1995, and 50
percent or the maximum amount feasible by the year 2000.
Since the improper disposal of hazardous wastes poses a more serious risk to the public's health and
threatens the environment in which we live, the Legislature passed AB 2707 (Public Resource Code
Section 47500 et. seq.) which requires each city to prepare a Household Hazardous Waste Element
(HHWE). The HHWE describes how the City will dispose of hazardous substances like household
cleaners, paints, pesticides, and motor oil.
7. Agriculture
The City of Diamond Bar presently has no important agricultural farmlands according to the California
Department of Conservation, Division of Land Resources Protection, and the Soil Conservation Service
of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. These agencies classify important farmland into six categories
according to soil type: Prime; potential prime; statewide important; locally important; and unique
farmlands. While none of these classifications have been applied to soils in Diamond Bar, the area did
at one time support extensive walnut groves and cattle ranches.
Over the last 30 years, the farm and ranchlands that once typified Diamond Bar have been converted to
urban and suburban uses. Prior to 1900, the production of walnuts and cattle grazing were the primary
agricultural activities within the City. Today, only scattered grazing remains, primarily on the Tres
Hermans property in the northeastern corner of the City. This area contains the "headwaters" of Tonner
Canyon, and the upper portions of this canyon, just south of Tres Hermans and west of Diamond Bar,
are also grazed periodically. The middle portion of Tonner Canyon, within the City's Sphere of
Influence, supports oil production, as well as the Firestone Boy Scout Reservation, and is not grazed on
a regular basis.
8. Mineral Resources
The City of Diamond Bar does not contain any identified (significant) mineral resources. The State of
California has established four categories of Mineral Resource Zones (MRIs). Most of Diamond Bar
Diamond Bar General Plan Resowc�e Management
III -6
May 5, 1995
is considered in MRZ-1, which identifies areas where adequate information indicates no significant
deposits
aggregate
sits are present. However, a particular bedrock formation (Puente) underlies scattered
y contain
portions of the City. This formation significance on is classified as cant beievaluated from available
data. , which identifies areas that aBased on
aggregate mineral deposits buttides of aggregate
available data, development in Diamond Bar will have to import substantial
materials anyway, since none of the surrounding areas contain extensive deposits.
C. RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ISSUES
1. Open Space and Visual Resources
There are several major vacant hillside or open space areas remaining in the City, which are under
various pressures to develop. The City needs to determine which area will be preserved and what means
to use to best assure their protection. Portions of these areas should be preserved for parks.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: There is a need to preserve open space within the' and the Sphere
of Influence and to utilize portions of these preserved open spaces for
parks and recreational uses, where feasible and safe.
2. Biological Resources
The City and its Sphere of Influence contain several areas with significant biological resources. These
areas should be considered for preservation in conjunction with important open space and visual resource
areas. This includes wildlife corridors to prevent isolation, loss of diversity in biological"islands" if'
they are cut off from larger and more diverse areas, and to maintain a sustainable quality
shelter, nesting) habitat.
ISSUE ANALYSIS. ?here is a need to protect areas with important biological resources,
both within the City and the Sphere of Influence.
3. Parks and Recreation
The City has a variety of recreational facilities presently available for local residents. While there are
numerous facilities in the area, some local parks are small or isolated. There are few additional parks
planned for the future. As the City grows, there will be additional demands placed on existing facilities.
r additional parks and recreational facilities
ISSUE ANALYSIS: There is a need to plan for h
to serve the growing needs of local residents throug ful1 utilization of
existing facilities within City boundaries and within the surrounding
area; additional recitation parklands
are necessary to meet the
conununity needs.
4. Water
Water is a scarce and expensive natural resource. The City already makes use of reclaimed water, and
this source will be depended on more in the future to "free up" potable water for additional domestic use.
_ The level of additional population growth in the City will be modest, but water may continue to be a
limiting factor in long-range planning -
111 -7
May 5, 1995
ISSUE ANALYSIS: The City must work with local water purveyors and landowners to
establish high water quality standards, to encourage water
conservation, preservation of natural springs, increase the use of
reclaimed water and develop additional water resources.
5. Energy
While war is the current resource shortage, there have also been short -terns energy the effisil ci
, and environmental awareness, ent
water
shortages. In times of increasing population, consumption
use of energy will continue to be an important aspect of responsible community life. There are many
governmental, and private institutions nearby that are on the cutting edge of energy
educational, g safe methods of resource conservation and
technology. The city should avail itself of environmentally
encourage testing of new technologies.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: The City should encourage energy conservation and innovation in
energy systems.
6. Solid waste
While the disposal of solid waste is a significant problem�u� � legislation�� p�u� production
o so d ��
specific implications for Diamond Bar• cines are II°e for the disposal of hazardous household materials.
and implement recycling programs, as well as arrange Po
ISSUE ANALYSIS: The City should outline an integrated waste management strategy and
identify programs that will assist the City in minimizing the
environmental impacts of land. fill disposal of solid wastes as mandated
by State law.
7, Agriculture
Although Diamond Bar began as an agricultural community, it has become a residential suburban
community. Cattle grazing is the only agricultural activity that remains as a reminder of this heritage
and should be left as such.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: The City needs to develop a policy dealing with the preservation of
agricultural land to the greatest extent possible.
8. Mineral Resources
There are no significant, concentrated mineral resources in Diamond Bar, with the possible exceptions
of oil and hydrocarbons.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: There is no identified issue at this time.
III -8
May 5, 1995
D. GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND BeLEUENTATION STRATEGIES
"ITIS THE OVERALLGOAL OFTHERESOURCE MANAGEMENT ELEMENTTO PROVIDE
AND MAINTAINS OBITS RESIDENTS, OPEN SPACESIWEHLE FO RING THE WISEDUSE RSE OF
N TRE CF7Y TO SERV
RECREATTONAL
LIMITED NATURAL RESOURCES. "
GOAL 1 "Consistent with the Vision Statement, create and maintain an open space system
which will preserve scenic beauty, protect important biological resources, provide
open space for outdoor recreation and the enjoyment of nature, conserve natural
resources, and protect public health and safety."
visual features which are within, or are visible from the City of
Objective 1.1 DiamonPreservd significant l osis on the reservation of remaining natural hillside areas.
Diamond Bar, with an emphasis P
Strategies:
1.1.1 Develop regulations for the protection of ridgelines, slope areas, canyons, and
hilltops. Require contour or landform grading, clustering of development, or
other means to minimize visual and environmental impacts to ridgelines or
prominent slopes.
1.1.2 Require that all excess excavated and waste materials be properly removed and
disposed of, or otherwise placed so as to become an integral part
of the site
development.
1.1.3 Require that dwelling units and structures within hillside areas be sited in such
a manner as to utilize ridgelines and landscape plant materials as a backdrop for
the structures and the structures themselves to provide maximum concealment
of cut slopes.
1.1.4 Preserve to the maximum extent feasible existing vegetation within undeveloped
hillside areas.
1.1.5 When deemed necessary by the City, require that significant vegetation
be
preserved or transplanted as determined by a qualified biota report app y
the City.
1.1.6 Pursue the preservation areasof within
it in and culturalDiamondBar value. its Sphere of
Influence, of outstanding scenic
1.1.7 To the greatest extent possible, require that dwelling units, structures and
landscaping be sited in a manner which:
protects views for existing development
Retains opportunities for views from dwellings
Preserves or enhances vistas, particularly those seen from public places
III -9
May 5, 1995
Preserves mature trees, natural hydrology, native plant materials, and
areas of visual interest
permits removal of vegetation as part of a City or Fire District
approved fuel modification program
1.1.8 Utilize grading permit procedures to ensure that site designs food development
rment
proposals for hillside areas conform to the natural terrain, a
the
visual aspects.
1.1.9 Work with the appropriate jurisdictions to protect prominent ridges, slopes, and
hilltops in and adjacent to the City and its Sphere of influence,
of the 57 Freeway at,
Toner Canyon, the hills in the City of Industry, 7Fee is
Grand Avenue, the hills within the County of Los Angeles (RowlandHeights),
west of the 57 Freeway, south of Brea Canyon Cutoff Road, the portion of
Toner Canyon within the Chino Bills Specific Plan, and the portion of Tonner
Canyon within the City of Brea (Orange County).
1.1.10 Enact provisions and techniques that enhance groundwater recharge and local
water recovery.
1.1.11 Expeditiously develop and adopt a tree ordinance designed to retain and/or
replace native trees within the City.
1.1.12 New development should include the preservation of significant trees of cultural
or historical value.
1.1.13 Develop a plan to provide a mechanism for, and to pursue the preservation of
designated open space.
objective 1.2 Maintain, protect, and preserve biologically significant areas, including SEA 15,
riparian areas, oak and walnut woodlands, and other areas of natural significance,
providing only such recreational and cultural opportunities as can be developed in a
manner sensitive to the environment.
Strategies:
1.2.1 Recognizing the significance of SEA 15 ecological resources, support further
definition of the extent and intensity of such resources to provide needed
additional information for the purpose and intent of preservation of this area.
1.2.2 Ensure that all development, including roads, proposed adjacent to riparian and
other biologically sensitive habitats avoid significant impacts to such areas.
Require that new development proposed in such locations be designed to:
Minimize or eliminate impacts on environmentally sensitive areas
Protect the visual seclusion of forage areas from road intrusion by
providing vegetative buffering
Provide wildlife movement linkages to water, food, shelter and nesting
III -10
May 5, 1995
• Provide vegetation that can be used by wildlife for cover along
roadsides
• Avoid intrusion of night lighting into identified areas through properly
designed lighting systems
• Allow wildlife and migration access by use of tunnels or other practical
means
• Replace fresh drinking water for wildlife when natural water areas are
removed or blocked
• To the greatest extent possible, prevent street water runoff from
flowing into natural or blueline streams
1.2.3 in conjunction with local schools, environmental groups and volunteers, the
City may participate in environmental education programs.
1.2.4 Take an active role in pursuing the preservation of environmentally sensitive
canyon areas in their natural state.
1.2.5 To the greatest extent possible, provide for preservation of flora and fauna.
objective 1.3 Maintain a system of recreation facilities and open space preservation which meet the
active and passive recreational needs of Diamond Bar residents of all ages.
Strategies:
1.3.1 As quickly as possible, complete a Recreational Needs Analysis to determine
the present and future recreation and park needs and update this analysis at
intervals of not more than 5 years.
1.3.2 As quickly as possible, complete and adopt a comprehensive Master Plan of
Parks which analysis present and future recreation, park and open space
preservation needs.
1.3.3 Through the Master Plan of Parks, strive to provide neighborhood and
community park facilities, such that a rate of 5.0 acres per 1000 residents is
ultimately achieved.
1.3.4 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.
1.3.5 Recreational Open Space shall be preserved as recreational open space unless
and until said recreational open spaces are replaced with equivalent open space
properties and facilities.
Resource Management
Diamond Bar General Plan III -11
May 5, 1995
1.3.6 Pursue the development of a system of greenbelts within the community.
1.3.7 Develop recreation facilities emphasizing active and passive recreation areas.
The development of a community center, the acquisition of traditional
neighborhood parkland including community athletic fields should be pursued.
• Improve and enhance existing recreation areas
• Pursue joint public/private development of recreation facilities
Develop and maintain a comprehensive inventory of recreation facilities
and update the facilities to ensure that the City's needs are being met
• Actively pursue land acquisition for parks
• pursue acquisition of various hillside areas for natural parks
• 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
1.3.8 Work with property owners and neighboring jurisdictions to plan and locate an
untreated potable water reservoir in the upper Tonner Canyon/Tres Hermans
Ranch area. planning should encourage and emphasize recreational uses and
facilities that could be developed on lands surrounding the reservoir.
GOAL 2 "Consistent with the Vision Statement, identify limits on the resources needed to
support existing and future uses within the City of Diamond Bar and its Sphere of
influence, and ensure that resources are used wisely.
objective 2.1 Mini r e the consumption of water through a combination of water conservation and uSe
of reclaimed water.
Strategies:
2.1.1 Coordinate with the local water agencies to encourage and expand the use of
reclaimed water, stored rainwater, or household gray water for irrigation.
(a) In cooperation with adjacent communities and area water purveyors,
encourage the use of reclaimed water; consider construction of dual
water systems, where feasible, for development.
III -12
May 5, 1995
Work with the local water agencies and schools to promote public
(b) education regarding conservation and advantages for reuse of water.
(c) Where feasible, direct storm waters collected in streets and drainage
systems to settling basins or small lakes within parks or open space
areas, as long as it benefits and does not adversely disrupt local plants
or wildlife.
2.1.2 Prepare ordinances that allow for the implementation of feasible water
conservation technologies into new developments such as, but not limited to,
self-closing valves, installation of hot water lines, or other technology.
2.1.3 Consistent with State law, encourage the use of primarily drought -tolerant
plants, efficient design in landscape application, and the use of reclaimed water
systems.
(a) As part of the City development review of landscaping plans,
discourage installation of large areas of lawn or turf, or limit
installations to areas that require the use of grass, where feasible.
(b) Where domestic water supplies are used in the irrigation of turf areas,
encourage the use of drought tolerant vegetation.
(c) To the extent possible, encourage the preservation of existing native
trees and shrubs, as established plants are often adapted
to low water
consumption.
(d) Require residential builders to provide information to prospective
buyers of new homes within the City of Diamond Bar regarding
drought tolerant planting concepts.
(e) Require non-residential builders to provide information to prospective
buyers or tenants within the City of Diamond Bar regarding drought -
tolerant planting concepts.
(fl Where possible, require the extensive use of mulch in landscape areas
to improve the water holding capacity of the soil by reducing
evaporation and soil compaction.
2.1.4 Require irrigation efficiency within the City. Encourage and upgrade irrigation
systems to the most efficient system available.
2.1.5 Establish the City as a leader in the implementation of water conservation
measures through expeditious implementation of the measures outlined above.
objective 2.2 Encourage efficient use of energy by minimizing the consumption of energy resources to
the minunal amount needed to support existing and planned land uses, through a
combination of efficient land use patterns and passive and active energy conservation
systems.
Strategies:
III -13
May 5, 1995
2 2 1 As a general principle, replace total dependence on nonrenewable, imported —
energy resources with a greater reliance on locally available renewable
resources to a degree which is feasible and in accord with current technology.
2.2.2 In conjunction with review of development applications, encourage the
incorporation of the following:
• provide for clusters of buildings with protected indoor or plaza/open
areas within multiple family residential, commercial, and office project
to promote protection from the wind and sun
Orient the maximum amount of glass possible toward the south, the
side with the greatest amount of solar collection (heat gain potential),
in combination with other measures for shading to mitigate age
summer heat
Use appropriate building shapes
and locations in order to promote
maximum feasible solar access of individual units
• Design individual buildings to msi:imize natural internal lighting
through interior court wells, interior court areas, skylights, clerestory
windows, and energy efficient building shapes
• Use canopies and overhangs to provide shade to windows during
summer months, while allowing for reflection of direct sunlight
through the windows during winter months (care should be taken to
assure that overhangs and canopies do not prevent sufficient light for
daytime purposes).
• Incorporate the use of drought tolerant deciduous trees in landscaping
plans, especially near buildings and around expanses of paved areas
Incorporate drought tolerant deciduous vines, trellises, and canopies to
shade south and westward facing walls, to cool them in summer months
• Locate trees and hedges planted close to buildings so as to channel
beneficial cooling breezes through openings
2.2.3 Where possible, minimize reflective surfaces (i.e. parking lots) on the north and
east side of buildings, alternatively, where parking areas must be located to the
south or west of buildings, provide additional landscaping to reduce beat gain.
2.2.4 Investigate the feasibility of adopting an Energy Ordinance that will incorporate
retrofit provisions for the installation of energy conservation measures on
existing structures, solar pool and hot tub provisions that will discourage natural
gas heaters as the primary energy source.
2.2.5 Implement, through the subdivision ordinance or through other appropriate
mechanisms, the Solar Rights Act of 1978 which addresses structural orientation
for solar access, and includes such concepts as solar easements, functional
landscaping, street layout, and architectural designs that reduce energy costs -
HI -14
May 5, 1995
2.2.6 Encourage, through the use of financial incentives, solar energy systems for the
heating of swimming pools.
2.2.7 Take full advantage of the CEQA process as a tool for evaluating energy use
and potential energy impacts, and for implementing appropriate energy
conservation measures.
2.2.8 Require the inclusion, where feasible, of provisions for energy efficient modes
of transportation and fixed facilities which establish public mass transit, bicycle,
equestrian, and pedestrian modes as desirable alternatives.
2.2.9 Work with appropriate Federal, State and private utility agencies to identify and
facilitate appropriate legislation for utility rate revisions that would provide
incentives for the conservation of energy by the shifting of energy usage to non -
peak hours.
2.2.10 Increase public awareness of energy conservation technology and practices by
the dissemination of information that describes energy conservation practices for
community members. This will encourage f gome future development of
on and the
generation of ideas, plans, and program
Diamond Bar as an energy efficient City.
objective 2.3 Reduce overall local energy consumption by promoting efficient land use patterns which
reduce the amount of vehicular travel.
Strategies:
2.3.1 Land uses in the City will be planned to reduce vehicle miles traveled between
compatible and related uses, such as home -shopping, home -office, home-school,
etc.
(a) This will apply to mixed-use Planned Developments in particular when
planning and reviewing new land uses.
2.3.2 Design and implementa Citywide system of bikeways and pedestrian trails as
non-polluting circulation alternatives.
objective 2.4 Cooperate with and encourage local education, governmental, and private organizations
in the development and use of new energy technologies that are deemed environmentally
safe.
Strategies:
2.4.1 Maintain open communication with other local, regional, State or Federal
agencies regarding the evaluation of current energy problems and state-of-the-
art technologies and practices.
2.4.2 Emphasize fuel efficiency and the use of alternative fuels in the acquisition and
use of City -owned vehicles and fleet vehicles of City franchisees; support
programs .which would serve to enhance or encourage the use of public transit
systems.
liamona nar asenanu rwu III -15
May 5, 1995
(a) Cooperate with the South Coast Air Quality Management Agency in the
development and local testing of new alternative fuels or other energy
programs.
2.4.3 Participate with local organizations on research and/or the development of
alternate energy sources, including cogeneration, photovoltaic, biomass, waste
to energy, wind, etc.
2.4.4 Investigate the potential for adding provisions in the Development Code to
require industrial and/or commercial projects to be sited to facilitate
photovoltaic and/or cogeneration units.
Objective 2.5 Minimize the environmental impacts of landfill disposal of solid wastes through an
aggressive public education and information campaign designed to promote a
comprehensive program of source reduction, recychng, composting, and household
hazardous waste reduction activities.
Strategies:
2.5.1 Continue to implement the Source Reduction and Recycling Element adopted
according to the guidelines established by State law and the California
Integrated Waste Management Board.
2.5.2 Develop and implement a Household Hazardous Waste Element according to
the guidelines of the California Integrated Waste Management Board.
Incorporate this element into the Resource Management Element of the General
Plan.
2.5.3 Reduce wasteful packaging of products sold in the City through educational and
technical assistance which emphasizes the reduction of non -recyclable products,
replacement of disposable materials with reusable materials, and the purchase
of repairable products.
2.5.4 Implement a mandatory Citywide recycling program including residential
curbside collection and voluntary on-site programs serving multi -family,
commercial and industrial generators.
2.5.5 Educate residential, commercial and industrial generators about sourc
re
reduction and recycling programs and encourage their participation by
developing a promotional campaign which informs them about diversion
programs, identifies opportunities for participation in such programs, and
provides motivational incentives to increase participation.
2.5.6 Require commercial and industrial generators to develop and implement a
source reduction and recycling plan tailored to their individual waste streams.
2.5.7 Promote the reduction of the amount of yard waste generated by public and
private residences through ongoing promotion of greenwaste by on-site
composting of leaves and other organic materials in a manner that is safe and
clean.
1II-16
May 5, 1995
2.5.8 Designate City held open space and public facilities as "green zones" and
conduct an aggressive pursuit of existing and potential City uses for compost
produced from locally generated yard waste such as park and median sites.
2.5.9 Increase public understanding of methods to reuse materials in their everyday
lives. Encourage the provision of educational materials on the environmental
damage of disposable products and materials.
2.5.10 Reduce the disposal of household hazardous wastes in landfills through
continued cooperation with the County Sanitation Districts and the Los Angeles
County Department of Public Works on implementation of a Countywide
household hazardous waste management program.
Objective 2.6 Pursuant to Government Cade 65302 (d) and (e), the Conservation Element and the
Open Space Element will be prepared.
Strategies:
2.6.1 The Resource Management Plan will be developed in coordination with any
Countywide water agency plans in conjunction with County, District or City
agencies. This Resource Management Plan will cover:
• Reclamation of land and water
• Prevention control of pollution in stream and other waters
• Regulation of the use of land in stream channels
• Protection of watersheds
• Flood control
2.6.2 An Open Space Plan will be prepared to identify areas which will comply with
Government Code Section 65560 that encompasses the four principal categories:
Natural resources; managed production of resources; outdoor recreation; and
public health and safety.
• Identify open space land necessary to guarantee the availability of land
for preservation of plant and animal life, production of food, scenic
beauty, outdoor recreation and natural resources
• Discourage premature and unnecessary conversion of open space land
to urban uses
• Assure that the interests of all people are met in an orderly growth and
development of resources for the promotion of the general welfare and
protection of the public interest in open space land
Diamond Bar General Plan Resource Management
III -17
May 5, 1995
LAND USE
ELEMENT
GENERAL PLAN
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
A. Introduction .................................. I-1
B. Legal Requirements ............................. I-1
C. Existing Conditions ............................. I-1
D. Community Development Issues ..................... I-7
E. Land Use Goals, Objectives, and Strategies ............. I-10
F. Land Use Plan ............................... I-23
LIST OF FIGURES
PAGE
FIGURE
I-1 Existing Land Use ........................ .
I-2 Proposed Land Use Map ......... • • • • • • • " " .
I-27
I-3 Possible Building Configurations, I-28
for 0.25:1 Floor Area Ratio ................. . , ,
LIST OF TABLES
TABLE
PAGE
I-1 City -Wide Existing Land Uses (1993) .................. I-4
I-2 Sphere of Influence Existing Land Uses (1993) ............ I-5
I-3 . Land Use Development Capacity Summary ............. I-25
I-4 Potential Residential and Commerical Growth ............ I-26
1. LAND USE ELEMENT
A. IN'T'RODUCTION
It is the desire of the citizens of Diamond Bar to maintain a rural and country living environment.
Planning for the long-range use of land in the City is like fitting together the pieces of a three-
dimensional jigsaw puzzle. Each "piece" of land has unique opportunities and constraints, but may also
have many needs or conditions that are shared by surrounding pieces, such as utilities, fire protection,
and protection from excessive noise. Each piece must be weighed individually, as well as together with
surrounding pieces as an integrated whole. Finally, all pieces must be weighed together to assure that
their combined pattern best fulfills the short and long-term needs of the community. The Land Use
Element of the General Plan provides a framework to unify and organize these "pieces" around several
central themes, so that development of remaining open land will enhance these themes and work toward
achievement of the Diamond Bar Vision.
B. LEGAL REQ
California law requires that each city and county prepare and adopt a comprehensive, long term general
plan for its physical development. Government Code Section 65302(a) requires that local general plans
include a land use element as part of the required general plan. This requirement is intended to ensure
that communities achieve and maintain a logical land use pattern, as well as standards for population
density and development intensity which is consistent with community goals and objectives. Thus, the
land use element has the broadest scope of the general plan elements required by State law.
C. EXISTING CONDITIONS
Diamond Bar is located at the junction of two major Southern California freeways (57 and 60) in the
southeastern corner of Los Angeles County. Although conceived as one of the first planned communities
in the west, it developed mainly as individual and unrelated detached single family residential tracts, with
a minimal amount of commercial and other non-residential uses.
The City incorporated in 1989, after developing under the jurisdiction of Los Angeles County for almost
30 years. Historical patterns of development under the County have created isolated multi -family areas,
small commercial centers with limited access, and a general fragmentation of uses in the City.
1. Residential Uses
Diamond Bar is comprised of rolling hills and valleys between rapidly urbanizing freeway corridors (west
and north) and the largely undisturbed Sphere of Influence (south). According to the California
Department of Finance, the City has a total of 17,813 dwelling units that presently house a population
of 54,315 residents (1993). The City is primarily residential. Single family detached units represent the
majority of the City's housing stock. Approximately five percent of the single family units 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 hillside areas (east).
Along the 57 and 60 freeway corridors, single family lots are generally under 10,000 square feet.
Diamond Bar General Plan Land Use Element
I-1
May 5, 1995
Detached single family developments in these arras have been built at 3-5 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 Avenue and on Golden
Springs 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 multifamily projects (16 units
per acre) are 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
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 Estates", a private gate -guarded
community, contains 638 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 in size,
depending on the severity
of the slope.
2. Non -Residential Uses
Non-residential uses comprise about 20 percent of the City's land area. Commercial uses occupy
approximately two percent of the City's land area and are mainly located along Diamond Bar Boulevard
and portions of Golden Springs Drive. Office uses occupy approximately 140 acres' with a major 110 -
acre corporate office complex located just asst of the southern intersection of the 57 and 60 freeways;
less than half completed. Approximately 84 acres of
this Gateway Corporate Center is presently
industrial/business park uses are located along Brea Canyon Road, north of Lycoming Avenue. Parks,
public facilities, open space, and roads occupy the remaining 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 obtain total site and building square
footages. Detailed data on local FARs was not available, because most shopping centers support a
variety of commercial, office, and/or business park uses. However, a selective representative survey of
local centers indicates the following FARs are most applicable to Diamond Bar uses, and can be
considered representative for planning purposes: Commercial = 0.24, Office = 0.38, and Business Paris
= 0.32.
Other major non-residential land uses include public facilities which encompass schools (158 acres) and
other government facilities; developed and undeveloped parks (470.8 acres); which includes the Diamond
Bar Golf Course (178 acres). At present, there are 2,757.1 acres of vacant land potentially available for
development and/or preservation. Many of these vacant lands are subject to existing map and deed
restrictions which limit their future development potential, and are separately idea SW acres atn Frelthe
The largest parcel of vacant land is the Tres Hermans property (approxnnatelY
northeast corner of the City, between Grand Avenue and the Pomona (60) Freeway.
Figure I-1 shows
the location of existing land uses within Diamond Bar.
Diamond Bar tienerar nun I-2
May 5, 1995
3. Sphere of Influence
The City of Diamond Bar's Sphere of Influence was first approved by the Los Angeles County Local
Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) on August 9, 1990, and encompasses 3,591 acres immediately
south of the City limits to the Los Angeles County/Orange County border. This sphere area includes
the middle portion of Tonner Canyon - an undeveloped northeast/southwest trending wooded canyon,
which extends beyond the City's Sphere of Influence into Orange County to the south and San Bernardino
County to the east.
Pursuant to the Cortese/Knox Local Agency Reorganization Act, the Sphere of Influence serves as an
area designated as future area to be annexed to the City. However, until such time as the property is
annexed to the City of Diamond Bar the area remains under the jurisdiction of Los Angeles County.
4. Potential Regional Impacts
State law provides that each city and county may include in a proposed general plan any land outside its
boundaries which bears relation to its land use planning activities. Government Code Section 65303
provides that the General Plan may address other subjects which, in the judgement of the legislative
body, relate to the physical development of the city, noting that "no city ... is an island in the regional
Setting".
Areas of potential impact upon the City of Diamond Bar include proposals for development of a Materials
Recovery Facility near the northwest boundary of Diamond Bar; a proposal to locate potable/non-potable
water facilities; an institute of higher education on the Tres Hermanos Ranch in Chino Hills and Diamond
Bar; potential development surrounding the new City of Industry Metrolink Station (rail facility) adjacent
to the westerly border of Diamond Bar; potential development of vacant land or hills adjacent to the 57
and 60 freeways and the Union Pacific right-of-way in the City of Industry; potential development of
vacant land south of Brea Canyon Cutoff Road and west of 57 freeway and Brea Canyon Road; and
Diamond Ranch Haigh School in Tres Hermans. These proposals should be carefully monitored by the
City and the City should proactively participate in the planning process where necessary to achieve
General Plan goals.
Diamond Bar General Plan Land Use Element
May 5, 1995 I-3
Table I-1
City -Wide Existing Land Uses (1993)
Rural/Hillside
855.5
638
17.2
8.9
Single Family
3656.8
11,916
1
73.8
38.2
1
Multi -Family
418.0
4,991
8.5
4.3
Mobile Homes
22.1
268
0.5
0.2
Residential Subtotal 1 4,952.4 1 17,813 1 100.0 1 51.6
Commercial
181.8
1,950,000
9.7
1.9
Office
138.5
2,750,000
7.4
1.4
Business Park
83.6
1,165,000
4.5
0.9
Public Facilities
211.7
11.3
2.2
Parks/Rec")
470.8
24.9
4.9
Fwy/Major Roads
787.1
42.2
8.2
Non -Residential Subtotal 1,873.5 5,865,000 100.0 19.5
Vacant Land 2,757.1 - - 28.8
TOTAL 9,583.0 - - 100.0
(Within City Corporate
Boundaries)
Source: The Planning Network, 1990; California Department of Finance, 1993 estimate.
0) Includes developed and undeveloped park land (See Table III -1, Resource Management Element)
Diamond Bar General Plan Land Use Element
May 5, 1995 I-4
Table I-2
Sphere of Influence Existing Land Uses (1993)
(1) Represents Firestone Boy Scout Camp
Diamond Bar General Plan Land Use Element
May 5, 1995 I-5
TAF i 'IV
RESIDENTIAL
NORTH
CONAL
OFFICE
® INDUMT.IAL
pAOOyypUBLIC FACB1'PLFS
Q VACANTLAND
OPEN SPACE (Subject to DnVWPO—c P-ftict—)
r� CITYL MM
SPFIERS OF UWLUENCE
IIt SIGNII7CANTECOLOGICALAREA
I u I
O 2000 4000 BOW FEET
Figure 1-1
Existing Land Use
Diamond Bar General Plan Land Use Element
May 5, 1995 1-6
D. CON WUNITY DEVELOPMENT ISSUES
The four major land use issues identified in the master Environmental Assessment are: 1) land use mix; 2)
capacities of the natural and men -made environment to accommodate growth; 3) City image; and 4) local
versus regional needs and short-term versus long-term solutions.
1. Land Use Mix
A. Disposition of Retraining Vacant Lands Including, but Not Limited to, a
Determination of Deed and Map Restriction Status.
Determining the status of remaining vacant lands is a major policy decision facing the City. As part of the
General Plan program, an 00pen Land Survey' was conducted to identify possible development restrictions
that might have previously been approved by the County. The survey found that various types of notations
and restrictions had been placed by the County on the subdivision maps creating certain identified vacant lands.
In some cases, deed restrictions were imposed to ensure that development would not occur without further
legislative review on vacant lands; however, many other notations and "restrictions" were ambiguous.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: Those lands which have been deed and/or map restricted should be pursued
as public open space. There is a need for examination of original and
existing deed and map restrictions which affect t vacant land proposed for
development. Past confusion resulting from Los Angels County transmittal
of development entitlements should be resolved.
b. Open Space Definition and Preservation
There are different types of undeveloped lands in the City. These include natural undisturbed hillsides, ridges
and canyon bottoms. Man-made open space can range from graded hillsides that appear "natural", to open
space areas which have been or may in the future be subject to deed or subdivision map restrictions which
preclude development. Other open space areas include improved properties such as parks, golf courses,
recreational facilities and cemeteries. This General Plan categorizes these different types of open space areas
into distinct and clearly understood designations.
Presently undisturbed hillsides, ndgelines and canyon bottoms located on privately owned property are
susceptible to future development. Therefore, this General Plan sets forth strategies for land use development
that will preserve significant environmentally sensitive areas through the use of techniques such as transfer of
development rights and clustering.
ISSUE ANALYSIS. Open space areas must be given clearly understood and identifiable
designations and preservation strategies must be identified.
C. Economics
The City presently has a modest budget with a small operating reserve. Municipal costs generally tend to
increase faster than revenues, and service needs can be expected to increase faster than services can be
provided. Therefore, the City should control service costs while seeking ways to increase City revenues. City
governments have two basic sources of revenue: Local residents and businesses.
As a means of increasing revenues, the City could attempt to increase property tax revenues by establishing
Diamond Bar as an exclusive community. This might be accomplished by significantly lowering allowable
densities on remaining vacant land and encouraging development of remaining vacant lands as gate -guarded
communities. While resale and new houses in the City command fairly high prices (slightly over $300,000),
market research shows that home prices must exceed half a million dollars before property tax revenues
approach municipal costs for service. In addition, after the passage of Proposition 13 in 1978, cities receive
Diamond Bar General Plan Land Use Element
May 5, 1995 I-7
a much lower proportion of their revenues from local property taxes. Available data also indicates that lower
priced single family dwellings, condominiums, and other attached multi -family housing cost proportionately
more for services than they generate revenues.
A second source of additional revenue to the City is sales taxes generated by existing or new local businesses.
In general, market research shows that retail commercial uses generate significantly more municipal revenues
as compared to costs. By comparison, business park uses generally "break even", while office uses cost more
to serve than the revenues they produce for a city.
Potential sources of additional revenues for the City would be new or higher user fees, taxes, or service
assessments. There are a variety of such charges available to cities that can be applied to either residents
and/or businesses.
For these reasons, economic factors are closely tied to land use decisions; the amount and variety of non-
residential (especially commercial) uses allowed in the City will largely define its revenue options as it
determines the types of services it can provide. Aside from property taxes and per capita subventions, sales
taxes are often the largest source of municipal revenues. However, the pro rata share of dollars to
municipalities may shift outside of the City's control. It is important for the City to make sound land use
decisions based on the long-term quality of the living environment, rather than solely on the economic benefits
of unpredictable market trends.
Fundamental marketing strategies that cities typically employ, relative to commercial land, to generate positive
municipal revenues/costs are as follows. Cities can choose to attract low -to middle -range shoppers, or they
may decide to focus on upper -or high-end buyers. Depending on location, cities can also choose between
attracting local buyers, or exploiting more regional shoppers. Diamond Bar can target all of these marketing
strategies to maximize its economic retum. The City could develop an area with good freeway visibility and
access for high-end specialty commercial and offices uses. These now could attract local, as well as a
considerable amount of regional shoppers. High-end office uses could also be located nearby to support these
commercial uses. There aro also several large shopping centers in the City with good freeway visibility and
access, which can support regional, freeway -serving, or community commercial uses. Smaller shopping
centers located on major streets within the developed portions of Diamond Bar should be oriented mainly for
local use. The City also has the potential to take advantage of regional mid-range shopping opportunities in
the undeveloped northeastern portion of the City, along the Pomona Freeway.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: There is a need to encourage a variety of new or arpanded commercial
uses and other non-residential development, as well as investigate other
funding mechanisms, to help finance City services, in
frastrucxures and
amenities.
2. Capabilities Of The Natural And Man -Made Environment
a. Natural Resources
Events of this decade have highlighted our limited regional resources, such as air quality, water, and solid
waste disposal. As a new City, Diamond Bar needs to establish its own position on these environmental issues.
Although the City is largely built out, additional growth could place unacceptable limits on sensitive or scarce
resources or on areas subject to hazards such as flooding (refer to flood hazard maps in MEA).
ISSUE ANALYSIS: There is a need for the City to plan for growth in ways that protect and
conserve natural resources and the environment.
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b. Infrastructure Capabilities
At present, the City has a fairly new infrastructure system and operates its services with a slight surplus of
revenues. However, as the City ages, maintenance and service costs go up faster than municipal revenues
increase. The current mix of land uses within the City is insufficient to adequately fund long-range capital
and operating needs.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: There is a need to plan now for the anticipated increase in traffic, the
maintenance of existing facilities, fund new facilities, and support future
services to enhance the quality of life in Diamond Bar.
3. City Image
a. Balanced, Residential Community
Although originally intended to be developed as a master planned community, Diamond Bar has not developed
in an orchestrated manner subject to a master set of covenants, conditions and restrictions. It is, rather, a
more tuitional bedroom community, consisting primarily of single-family residential tract development,
punctuated with local commercial businesses and multiple family housing at arterial intersections. Although
the City lacks a 'downtown" area which might contribute to a focused image, it has the reputation of a
desirable and attractive place to live, containing many features of a more Waal environment. The vision of
the General Plan offers the opportunity to crystallize the image of the community.
ISSUE ANALYSIS. There is a need to define and promote a City image that reflects the City's
many attributes and its long-term vision.
b. Land Use Compatibility
A major goal of the community is to protect existing neighborhoods and their character. There are outside
pressures on the City to help solve regional traffic problems. At the same time, there are outside pressures
on the City adversely affecting the City due to outside regional development and traffic. In general, housing
densities, types of units, and lot sizes should be maintained in established residential areas. In some cases,
the desire to protect the character of existing neighborhoods may require remedial action to eliminate uses that
are not compatible or that are not appropriate for a specific area.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: There is a need to protect the character of existing neighborhoods from
incompatible land uses.
4. Local versus Regional Needs/Short-Term versus Long -Tam Solutions
a. Circulation
Diamond Bar presently provides a number of 'short cuts' for regional commuters during peak traffic periods
and during periods of local freeway congestion. The City may choose to take appropriate measures to relieve
regional congestion which would ultimately free up local roads for predominately local use. The City of
Diamond Bar should proactively and aggressively work with and lobby adjacent/regional agencies to develop
regional circulation solutions that directly benefit Diamond Bat local access needs. Local community residents
should be given an opportunity for participation in the discussion of these needs and possible solutions.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: There is a need to prewnt regional commuter traffic from impacting local
traffic and local activities.
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E. LAND USE GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND STRATEGIES
'ITIS THE OVERALL GOAL OF THE LAND USE ELEMENT TO U ENSURE 771AT THE LAND USES
AND DEVELOPMENTDECISIONS OFDIAMONDRAR MAINTAINAND ENHANCE THE QUALITY
OF LIFE FOR ITS RESIDENTS. '
GOAL 1 "Consistent with the Vision Statement, maintain a mix of land uses which enhance the
quality of life of Diamond Bar residents, providing a balance of development and
preservation of significant open space areas to assure both economic viability and
retention of distinctive natural features of the community."
Objective 1.1 Establish a land use class cation system to guide the public and private use of land within
the City and its Sphere of Influence.
Strategies:
1.1.1 Identify residential land use categories to provide an appropriate range of housing
types for residential development within the City and its Sphere of Influence.
(a) The maximum gross density of Rural Residential (RR) will be 1.0
dwelling unit per gross acre (1 du/ac) or less, depending upon the
establishment of a slope density ordinance.
(b) Designate existing developed single family detached residential parcels as
Low Density Residential (RL) on the Land Use Map. The maximum
density of such Low Density Residential parcels will be 3.0 dwelling units
per gross acre (3.0 du/sc), or existing density, whichever is greater.
(c) Designate existing single family detached subdivisions as Low Medium
Residential (RLM) on the Land Use Map. The maximum density of Low
Medium Residential areas will be 5.0 dwelling units per gross acre (5.0
du/sc), or existing density, whichever is greater.
(d) Designate existing planned townhome, condominium, apartment, mobile
home, and other multiple family residential properties as Medium Density
Residential RM) on the Land Use Map. Maintain a maximum density of
12.0 dwelling units per gross acre (12 du/ac) within these areas.
(e) Designate existing, and planned townhome, condominium, apartment, and
other multiple family residential properties as Medium High Residential
(RMH) on the Land Use Map. Maintain a maximum density of 16.0
dwelling units per gross acre (16 du/ac) within these areas.
(f) Designate existing and proposed high density condominium and apartment
developments and other high density properties as High Density
Residential (RH) on the Land Use Map. Maintain a maximum density of
20.0 dwelling units per gross acre (20 du/ac) within these areas.
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(g) Develop a slope density ordinance which shall be applied to all land use
designations in the City. Such slope density shall reduce the number of
dwelling units otherwise designated for the property as a function of
average slope of the land in question in excess of 25 Peru. Average
slope is defined as follows:
I = Contour interval in feet
Slope = 0.002296 I L L = Summation of length of all
A contours in feet
A = Area in acres of parcel
considered
1.1.2 Ensure that the land use classification system provides adequate separationand
buffering of less active residential uses from more intense land uses, majoorrssttreets,
and highways.
1.1.3 Identify commercial land use categories to provide for a range of retail and service
uses to serve City needs and to guide development within the City and its Sphere
of Influence.
(a) Encourage active pursuit of commercial development in Gateway Corporate
Center as a means of increasing City revenues.
(b) Establish General Commercial (C) areas to Provide for regional, freeway -
oriented, and/or community retail and service commercial uses.
Development of General Commercial areas will maintain a floor area ratio
(FAR) between 0.25 and 1.00.
(c) Designate Commercial Office (CO) land use areas on diverse, mixed us
commercial retail, office and service properties. Development within
Commercial Office areas will maintain an FAR between 0.25 and 1.00.
(d) Designate Professional Office (OE) areas to provide for the establishment
of office -based working environments for general, professional, and
administrative offices, as well as support uses. Development within
Professional Office areas will maintain an FAR between 0.25 and 1.00.
1.1.4 Areas designated Light Industrial (1) on the General Plan Land Use Map are to
provide for light industrial, research and development, and office -based industrial
firms seeking a pleasant and attractive working environment, as well as for business
support services, and commercial uses requiring more land area than is available in
General Commercial or Commercial Office areas. These area will maintain a
maximum floor area ratio of 0.25 to 1.00.
1.1.5 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. new uses maintain development standards which do not exceed that of
the most restrictive adjacent designation.
1.1.6 Areas designated as Open Space (OS) provide recreational opportunities,
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I-11
May 5, 1995
preservation of scenic and environmental values, protection of resources (water
reclamation and conservation), protection of public safety and preservation of animal
life. This designation also includes lands which may have been restricted to open
space by map restriction, deed/designation, condition, covenant and/or restriction,
or by an Open Space Easement pursuant to California Government Code (CGC),
Section 51070 et seq. and Section 64499 et seq. This designation carnes with it a
maximum development potential of one single family unit per existing parcel. unless
construction was previously restricted or prohibited on such properties Y
the
County of Los Angeles.
1.1.7 Provide Park (PIC) designations for existing and future public parks. Designate the
Diamond Bar Country Club as Golf Course (GC). Designate major private
recreational facilities (e.g. Little League ball fields, YMCA) as Private Recreation
(PR). The Private Recreation designation may be applied to lands required to be
set aside for recreational use which have not been dedicated to or accepted by a
public agency; no development may take place on these lands other than open space
uses specifically permitted by the applicable Planned Unit Development and/or deed
restrictions.
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 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 theproposed development into existing development patterns. Permitted
land use density/intensity on properties designated with a PD designation are
governed by the land use designations as described within Strategy 1.6.1 of the
Land Use Element.
1.1.9 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 Specific Plan (SP) overlay designation:
(a) for large scale development areas in which residential, commercial,
recreational, public facilities, and other land uses may be permitted; and,
(b) large acreage property(ies) in excess of ten (10) acres that are proposed to
be annexed into the City.
At such time as development might be proposed, require formulation of a specific
plan pursuant to the provisions of Government Code Section 65450 for the Sphere
of Influence ane 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 Circulation Element).
1.1.10 Within the Agricultural (AG) designation, permit single family residential at a
maximum density of 1.0 dwelling unit per 2 gross acres (1.0 du/2ac), agricultural
and compatible open space, public facility, and recreation uses (see also Land Use
Element Strategies 1.6.3 and 1.6.4).
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May 5, 1995
Objective 1.2 Preserve and maintain the quality of existing residential neighborhoods while q,8`ering a
variety of housing opportunities, including mixed land uses.
Strategies:
1.2.1 Maintain a system of identifiable, complementary neighborhoods, Providing
neighborhood identity signage, where appropriate, and ensuring that such signage
is well maintained over time.
1.2.2 Maintain the integrity of residential neighborhoods by discouraging through traffic
and preventing the creation of new major roadway connections through existing
residential neighborhoods.
1.2.3 Maintain residential areas which protect natural resources, hillsides, and scenic
areas.
(a) Development in hillside areas should be designed to be compatible with
surrounding natural areas, compatible to the extent practical with
surrounding development, aesthetically pleasing, and provide views from
development, but not at the expense of views of the development.
(b) Earthwork in hillside areas should utilize contour or landform grading.
(c) Minimize grading to retain natural vegetation and topography.
1.2.4 Maintain residential areas which provide for ownership of single family housing and
require that new development be compatible with the prevailing character of the
surrounding neighborhood.
1.2.5 Enact Development Code Provisions for the development of second units on a single
family parcel. Ensure that the single family character and integrity of the
neighborhood be protected and that road, water, and sewer systems are capable of
supporting such development.
1.2.6 Broaden the range of, and encourage innovation in, housing types. Require
developments within all Residential areas to provide amenities such as common
usable, active open space and recreational areas, when possible.
1.2.7 Where consistent with the other provisions of the Diamond Bar General Plan,
encourage the provision of low and moderate cost housing (see also Housing GOAls,
Objectives, and Strategies in this document).
Objective 1.3 Designate adequate land for retail and service commercial, professional services, and other
revenue generating uses in sufficient quantity to meet the City's needs.
Strategies:
1.3.1 Designate such lands for commercial use as are necessary to minimize sales tax
leakage out of Diamond Bar and to capture the City's fair share of sales tax
revenue.
(a) Identify retail needs which are not being met in the community.
(b) . Define and implement an economic development program to attract needed
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May 5, 1995
commercial uses to the City.
1.3.2 Encourage the development of businesses that take advantage of locations visible
from the freeway, when appropriate.
1.3.3 Encourage neighborhood serving retail and service commercial uses.
(a) Typical uses in the Commercial office category include uses such as
general retail, specialty retail, markets, food and drug stores, commercial
services, restaurants, automotive repair and service, hardware and home
improvement centers, recreation, professional and business offices,
finanA-1 institutions, medical offices, and real estate offices.
1.3.4 Encourage the retention, rehabilitation, refurbishment, and/or expansion of existing
business establishments. Residentially compatible home occupations where
consistent with other provisions of the General Plan and Development Code should
be allowed subject to standards enacted to protect the privacy and residential
character of the neighborhood.
1.3.5 Encourage revenue generating uses in locations that serve the City's needs.
(a) professional Office areas are to provide for the establishment of office -
based working environments for general, professional, and administrative
offices, as well as necessary support uses.
(b) The Gateway Corporate Center in particular offers large lots with a
capacity for multi -story buildings, and is designed to take advantage of
unique locations with good freeway access, . as well as access to
miscellaneous support uses. Buildings adjacent to the freeways along
Gateway Center Drive and Bridgegate Drive should have a maximum of
six (6) stories. Buildings along Copley Drive and Valley Vista Drive
should have a maximum of eight (8) stories. Trees native to the area
should be. used to obstruct unsightly views.
1.3.6 Encourage consolidation of individual lots into a coordinated project; encourage
provision of enhanced amenities such as public art, plan areas, open space and
landscaping, and pedestrian facilities in excess of required minimums; or provision
of housing within a mixed use project.
1.3.7 Undertake programs to target revitalization of existing commercial uses and selected • .
new retail uses needed to expand the range of goods and services available to local
residents and to generate needed sales tax revenue.
Objective 1.4 Designate adequate land for educational, cultural, recreational, and public service activities
to meet the needs of Diamond Bar residents.
Strategies:
1.4.1 Ensure that land owned and purchased for public use by public agencies is
designated on the Lam Use Map for public purposes. Specific uses within the
Public Facilities category, as shown on the Land Use Map include water facilities,
fire stations, schools, parks, libraries, and similar facilities.
1.4.2 promote joint development and use of parks and open space facilities with adjacent
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May 5, 1995
jurisdictions; promote development of joint school/park sites and public amenities.
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.
1.4.5 Pursue development of major joint use recreation and meeting facilities as Part of
educational facility development.
1.4.6 Work with Tres Hermans property owner(s) to incorporate, where appropriate,
educational/cultural, recreational and public services to include arterial highway
access to future schools.
1.4.7 Work with neighboring jurisdictions and other agencies in the coordination and
designation of educational, cultural and recreational plans to include arterial
highway access to future schools.
Objective 1.5 Maintain a feeling of open space within the community by identifying and preserving an
adequate amount of open land.
Strategies:
1.5.1 Develop an Open Space program which will identify and preserve open space land
and rank its importance consistent with community needs, objectives and financial
capability. As part of the Slope Density Scale Ordinance, develop a formula for the
preservation of open space.
1.5.2 On all applications for subdivision and development approval, require the
submission of a title report or other acceptable documentation of deed and map
restrictions.
1.5.3 Land designated as Open Space by deed/dedication, condition and a restriction, by
open space easement (CGC Section 51070 et seq.) or by map restriction (explicit
or previous subdivision) must comply with an established review and decision
making process prior to the recision, termination, abandonment and/or removal of
an open space dedication easement and/or restriction.
(a) Vacant land which deed is burdened by an open space dedication,
condition, covenant and/or restriction shall be required to be subject to the
abandonment process substantially similar to that which is set forth in CGC
Section 51090 et seq.
(b) Vacant land which is burdened by an open space easement pursuant to
CGC Section 51070 at seq. shall be required to be subject to the
abandonment process set forth in CGC 51090 at seq.
(c) Vacant land which is burdened by an explicit open space designation
delineated upon a map which was the result of a previous subdivision
approval shall be required to be subjected to at least one public hearing
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May 5, 1995
before the City Council prior to any action to remove said restriction.
1.5.4 Vacant land and/or existing residential lots burdened by map restrictions which
delineate limitations or prohibitions related to building construction allowable
residential units, or other such non open space restrictions, shall be required to be
subject to a process established by the City Council prior to removal of such
restrictions.
(a) Vacant land burdened by non open space restrictions shall be required to
be subjected to at least one public hearing before the City Council before
any action can be taken to remove any such restrictions.
(b) Existing residential lots that are burdened by non open space map
restrictions shall be required to be subject to a process established by the
City Council prior to removal of any such restrictions.
1.5.5 Obtain Open Space land through feasible acquisition and management techniques
such as:
(a) Acquisition of land for parks and natural area conservation through a
process of entitlement review and density transfer among land uses of like
designation and entitlements review.
(b) Investigation of a bond issue for purchase of open space areas not already
protected by open space restrictions.
(c) Establishment of lighting and landscape districts for open space
improvements and maintenance.
(d) Through the entitlement process where the landowner/developer would
agree to sell at less than market value or dedicate property in exchange for
development rights.
1.5.6 To preserve significant environmental resources within proposed developments,
allow, clustering or transferring of all or part of the development potential of the
entire site to a portion of the site, thus preserving the resources as open space, and
mandating the dedication of those resources to the City or a conservancy.
Objective 1.6 Consistent with the Vision Statement, provide flexibility in the planning of new development
as a means of encouraging superior land use by means such as open space and public
amenities.
Strategies:
1.6.1 A master plan shall be developed for each area of the City designated as Planned
Development (PD). The location of each Planned Development area is shown on
Figure I-2. Descriptions of each area and the contemplated land use designations
are defined as follows:
(a) P mted Development Area 1
PD -1 is located within the incorporated City south of the Pomona Freeway
west of Chino Hills Parkway. This 800± acre vacant area is part of the
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May 5, 1995
larger Tres Hermans Ranch property spanning Grand Avenue, including
property within the City of Chino Hills. 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 may 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 complimentary 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 adjacent lands.
(b) Planned Development Area 2
PD -2 is comprised of approximately 400 vacant acres located in two non-
contiguous areae. Sub -Area A consists of approximately 325 acres located
east of Diamond Bar Boulevard, north of Grand Avenue, south of Gold
Rush Drive, at the terminus of Highcrest Drive. Sub -Area B consists of
approximately 75 acres located west of Pantem Park. Appropriate land
uses for this 400 ± acre non-contiguous area include a maximum of 130
single family detached residential dwelling units concentrated along the
anticipated extension of Highcrast Drive, a minimum of 75 percent of the
total 400 acre area set aside as dedicated open space. A two acre area
located at the southwest corner of Diamond Bar Boulevard and Gold Rush
Drive should be developed for public facility or commercial uses. In order
to minimize environmental impacts and maximize clustering, residential
lots shall range in size from 6,000 to 10,000 feet.
(c) Planned Development Area 3
PD -3 located south of Grand Avenue and east of Golden Springs Drive
incorporates approximately 75 acres of developed and undeveloped land.
Appropriate land uses for this multiple ownership area include mixed use
commercial retail and office professional uses. The maximum intensity of
development for this planned development area is an FAR of 1.00.
(d) Planned Development Area 4
PD -4 consists of 78 vacant acres and is located west of Brea Canyon Road,
north of Peaceful Hills Road and south of South Pointe Middle School.
Land uses appropriate for this planned development area include single
family detached residential, public facilities and open space. A maximum
of 165 dwelling units may be permitted incorporating a minimum of 30
percent of the 78 acre site set aside as open space. The most sensitive
portion of the site shall be retained in permanent open space. The site plan
shall incorporate the planning and site preparation to accommodate the
development of Larkstone Park of a suitable size and location to serve the
neighborhood as approved by the City.
(e) Planned Development Area 5
PD -5 is comprised of a vacant 28 acre parcel of land located near the
intersection of Brea Canyon Road and Diamond Bar Boulevard. Land uses
appropriate for this site include a maximum of five (5) single family
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detached residential dwelling units per acre. Clustering of development is
encouraged.
1.6.2 Require that Planned Development projects provide a greater level of community
amenities and cohesiveness, achieve superior land use, and create a more desirable
living environment than could be achieved through conventional subdivision design
and requirements.
1.6.3 Designate the following larger properties as future Specific Plan (SP) areas. This
designation is an overlay to the base land use category providing for mixed use
projects in the future subject to approval of a Specific Plan consistent with
Government Code Section 65450. The issues to be addressed and the type and
maximum intensity of development within the future Specific Plan area is defined
below.
(a) Specific Plan Arca 1
SP -1 incorporates the Sphere of Influence area. This 3600 acre multiple ownership
area contains unique biological and open space resources. The formulation of a
future Specific Plan should incorporate provisions to protect existing resources while
minimising 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 Circulation Element).
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 may 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 Hermans area should be designed so as to be a part
of the Diamond Bar community, as well as compatible with the adjacent lands.
1.6.4 Encourage clustering within the most developable portions of project sites to
preserve open space and/or other natural resources. Such development should be
located to coordinate with long-term plans for active parks, passive (open space)
parks, and preserve natural open space areas.
(a) Encourage offers to dedicate additional open space land to the City or a
conservancy.
1.6.5 Where feasible within new developments, encourage a mixture of complementary
development types (e.g. commercial, residential, recreational, sales tax and
employment -generating uses) which can be provided in an integrated manner.
GOAL 2 "Consistent with the Vision Statement, manage land use with respect to the location,
density and intensity, and quality of development. Maintain consistency with the
capabilities of the City and special districts to provide essential services which achieve
sustainable use of environmental and manmade resources.
Objective 2.1 Promote land use patterns and intensities which are consistent with the Resource Management
Element and Circulation Element.
Strategies:
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2.1.1 Ensure that planning programs and individual development projects within and
affecting the City recognize, and are sensitive to, environmental resource
limitations.
(a) prior to approving new development or the intensification of existing
development within the City of Diamond Bar, ensure that the
environmental consequences of the proposed action have been recognized
and properly addressed.
(b) When reviewing plans and development projects referred to the City by
adjacent jurisdictions, insist that there be a recognition and appropriate
mitigation of the environmental consequences of the proposed action.
2.1.2 Ensure that new development utilizes feasible contemporary technologies to reduce
energy and water consumption, generation of solid and hazardous wastes, and air
and water pollutant emissions.
2.1.3 Ensure that time -specific issues are evaluated as part of the review of new
development and intensification of existing development. For example, when
deemed appropriate by the City, require prior to approval that biological
assessments be prepared through the seasonal cycle of plants and migration of
wildlife for a period of not less than one year.
Objective 2.2 Maintain an organized pattern of land use which minimizes conflicts between adjacent land
uses.
Strategies:
2.2.1 Require that new developments be compatible with surrounding land uses.
2.2.2 Prohibit the development of adjacent land uses with significantly different
intensities, or that have operating characteristics which could create nuisances along
a common boundary, unless an effective buffer can be created.
2.2.3 Where land uses of significantly different intensity or use are planned adjacent to
each other, ensure that individual site designs and operations are managed in such
a manner as to avoid the creation of nuisances and hazards.
2.2.4 Require that new developments be designed so as to respect the views of existing
developments; provide view corridors which are oriented toward existing or
proposed community amenities, such as a park, open space, or natural features. As
part of the Development Code, adopt clear standards to identify the extent to which
views can, and will, be protected from impacts by new development and
intensification of existing development.
Objective 2.3 Ensure that future development occurs only when consistent with the availability and
adequacy of public services and facilities.
Strategies:
2.3.1 Through the environmental and development review processes, ensure that adequate
services, facilities, and infrastructure are available to support each development.
2.3.2 Require new development to pay its fair share of the public facilities and off-site
Diamond Bar General Plan Land Use Element
I-19
May s, 1995
improvements needed to serve the proposed use.
GOAL 3 "Consistent with the Vision Statement, maintain recognition within Diamond Bar and
the surrounding region as being a community with a well planned and aesthetically
pleasing physical environment."
Objective 3.1 Create visual points of interest as a means of highlighting community identity.
Strategies:
3.1.1 Develop and locate City entry monuments, highlighting key community entry points
and open space areas to identify Diamond Bar to local and commuter traffic.
3.1.2 Where feasible and appropriate, add areas for landscaping, such as in medians or
by widening parkways within the primary arterial roadway system, as a means of
traffic control, providing pedestrian amenities, and as an aesthetic feature for the
community.
3.1.3 Pursue the establishment and expansion of landscape maintenance districts as a
means of ensuring the ongoing maintenance of medians and community entry
statements, as well as maintenance of landscaping of hillsides along major
roadways.
3.1.4 Consider a program to place public art at prominent locations throughout the City
of Diamond Bar.
3.1.5 Encourage the provision and maintenance of neighborhood identification signage.
Objective 3.2 Ensure that new development, and intensification of edsting development, yields a pleasant
living, working, or shopping environment, and attracts interest of residents, workers,
shoppers, and visitors as the result of consistent exemplary design.
Strategies:
3.2.1 Within the urban residential portions of the City, require the incorporation of open
space and recreational areas into the design of new projects. Within topographically
rugged and rural areas, emphasize the preservation of natural landforms and
vegetation.
3.2.2 Require in the Development Code that setbacks from streets and adjacent properties
relate to the scale of the structure as well as the size of the street right-of-way.
Require that building setbacks along roadways be varied so as to avoid a
monotonous street scene.
3.2.3 Minimize the use of block walls unless they are needed for a specific screening,
safety, or sound attenuation purpose. Where feasible, provide instead a wide open
area with informal clusters of trees, defined by split rail, wrought iron, or similar
open fencing. Where construction of a solid wall which will be visible along a
public street is necessary, provide landscaping such as trees, shrubs, or vines to
break the visual monotony, and soften the appearance of the wall, and to reduce
glare, heat, or reflection. Where solid walls currently exist along the primary
_ roadway system, and it is possible to retrofit landscape screens, establish a funding
mechanism for the construction of such screens.
Diamond Bar General Plan Land Use Element
May 5, 1995 I-20
3.2.4 Enhance pedestrian activity within residential, commercial, office, and light -
industrial areas.
(a) Ensure that non-residential facilities are oriented to the pedestrian, by the
incorporation of seating areas, courtyards, landscaping, and similar
measures.
(b) Utilize 'street furniture" (decorative planters, bike racks, benches) to
create and enhance urban open spaces.
(c) Design commercial and office projects so as to have a central place, main
focus, or feature.
(d) Utilize varied building setbacks and staggered elevations to create plaza -
like areas which attract pedestrians, whenever possible.
3.2.5 Require that automobile service facilities and commercial loading areas be oriented
away from the street frontage and from residential edges wherever possible to
minimize sight and sound impacts.
3.2.6 Where the rear or sides of commercial, office, or other non-residential buildings
will be visible within a residential neighborhood, ensure that the visible elevations
will be, treated in such a manner as to provide a pleasing appearance.
3.2.7 Ensure that commercial developments are designed with a Precise concept for
adequate signage, including provisions for sign placement and number, as well as
sign scale in relationship to the building, landscaping, and readability as an integral
part of the signage concept. Ensure that signs are integrated into the overall site
and architectural design theme of commercial developments.
3.2. S In conjunction with area utility companies, pursue a program of undergrounding
overhead utility lines.
3.2.9 Include within the Development Code requirements for the size and quantity of trees
to be planted within new development and intensification of existing development.
3.2.10 Now development shall comply with the City's Hillside Management Ordinance.
3.2.11 In Rural Residential (RR) minimiZe right -of --way width to the extent feasible. .
Objective 3.3 Protect the visual quality and character of remaining natural areas, and ensure that hillside
development does not create unsafe conditions.
Strategies:
3.3.1 Balance the retention of the natural environment with its conversion to urban forms.
3.3.2 Promote incorporation of hillside features into Project designs.
3.3.3 As part of the Development Code, maintain hillside development regulations that
are sensitive to natural contours and land forms.
3.3.4 Limit grading to the minimum necessary.
Diamond Bw General Plan Land Use Element
May 5, 1995 I-21
3.3.5 Require that all manufactured slopes be landscaped and that, where practical,
landform grading and planting techniques be implemented in the construction of
manufactured slopes.
(a) Foliage used in planting palettes should be drought tolerant, fire resistant,
and have colors similar to those of native materials in the surrounding
area.
(b) Within landform graded slopes, plants should be grouped within Swale
areas to more closely reflect natural conditions.
GOAL 4 'Consistent with the Vision Statement, encourage long-term and regional perspectives
in local land use decisions, but not at the expense of the Quality of We for Diamond
Bar residents."
Objective 4.1 promote and cooperate in efforts to provide reasonable regional land use and
transportation/circulation planning programs.
Strategies:
4.1.1 Take a proactive role to coordinate Diamond Bar's land use plan with those of
surrounding cities and other agencies.
4.1.2 Consider the potential impacts of proposed Diamond Bar developments on
neighboring jurisdictions as part of the development review process. Notify
- neighboring jurisdictions when considering changes to the City's existing land use
pattern.
4.1.3 Monitor the progress of major regional developments; cooperate with appropriate
City, County, State, and Regional organizations to achieve maximum interaction and
cooperation; participate fully in relevant regional development patterns.
4.1.4 Encourage coordination with adjacent cities and other agencies to lobby the State
and Federal government on regional issues which affect the City of Diamond Bar.
4.1.5 Monitor and evaluate potential impacts upon the City of Diamond Bar, of major
proposed adjacent, local, and regional developments, in order to anticipate land use,
circulation, and economic impacts and related developmental patterns of the City of
Diamond Bar.
4.1.6 Relate major regional impacts to planning action which might be required to
safeguard the best interests and Quality of Life of the City of Diamond Bar.
Objective 4.2 Maintain City boundaries which are reasonable in temps of existing service capabilities, social
and economic interdependencies, citizen desires, and City revenues and expenditures.
Strategies:
4.2.1 Seek annexation of those areas which have primary access through Diamond Bar
and whose residents and businesses are most logically served by the City.
4.2.2 Consider annexation of additional areas west of the City boundaries including
expansion of the adopted Sphere of Influence, where the following findings can be
Diamond Bar General Plan Land Use Element
May 5, 1995 I-22
made:
(a) Compatibility exists with the goals and desires of the people and the City
of Diamond Bar;
(b) The proposed annexation is consistent with goals and objectives of the
General Plan;
(c) Significant benefits will be derived by the City and affected property
owners/residents upon annexation;
(d) There exists a significant social and economic interdependence and
interaction between the City of Diamond Bar and the area proposed for
annexation.
F. LAND USE PLAN
The Land Use Plan describes the extent of future development in Diamond Bar and identifies standards for
that development. The geographic locations of land uses are presented in the Land Use Map, Figure I-2, and
the standards for development and resulting General plan buildout are presented in the General Plan Land Use
Table I-3. Table I4 presents a summary of potential residential and commercial growth under the General
Plan.
1. Land Use Designations
Land use designations are necessary to identify the type of development that is allowed in a given location.
While terms such as "residential", "commercial", and "industrial" are generally understood, State general plan
law requires a clear and concise description of the land use categories shown on the Land Use Map.
The City of Diamond Bar Land Use Element provides for 16 land use designations. General Plan land use
categories are defined above in Section E - Land Use Goal, Objectives and Strategies. Strategy 1.1.1 outlines
residential land use and includes five classifications ranging from rural residential to high density residential
use. Strategies 1.1.3 and 1.1.4 define commercial land uses for a range of retail and service uses including
general commercial, commercial office, professional office, and light industrial. Strategies 1.1.5 through
1.1.10 describe other land use categories including public facilities, open space, park, planned development,
agriculture/specific plan, and agricultural. The Land Use Plan Development Capacity Summary Table I-3
illustrates these classifications, each of which has a residential density or a land use intensity. Additional non-
residential land use categories include public facilities, conservation open space,, golf course, private
recreation, and planned development.
2. Land Use Intensity/Density
The Element uses certain terminology to describe the land use designations. The term -density- refers to
residential uses and to the population and development capacity of residential land. Density is described in
terms of dwelling units per net acre of land (du/sc). For example, 50 dwelling units occupying 20 acres of
land is 5.0 du/sc.
The land use designations, or categories, in this Element are described in terms of intensity and density. The
term "intensity- which applies to non-residential uses, refers to the extent of development on a parcel of land
or on a lot. It includes the total building square footage, building height, the floor area ratio, and/or the
percent of lot coverage. Intensity is often used to describe non-residential development levels, but in a broader
sense, intensity is used to express overall levels of both residential and non-residential development types. In
this Element, floor area ratio and building square footage are used as measures of non-residential development
Diamond Bar General Plan Lend Use Element
May 5, MS I-23
intensity.
Floor Area Ratio (FAR) represents the ratio between the total gross floor arca of all buildings on a lot and the
total area of that lot. To determine FAR, divide gross floor area of all buildings on a lot by the land arca of
that lot. For example, Figure I-3 illustrates that a 10,000 square foot building on a 40,000 square foot lot
yields an FAR of 0.25:1. The FAR controls the intensity of use on a lot. A 0.25:1 FAR can yield a building
of one story in height which covers one-half of the lot area, or a taller building which covers less of the lot
and provides for more open space around the building.
State General Plan law requires that the Land Use Element indicate the maximum densities and intensities
permitted within the Land Use Plan. The land use designations shown on the Land Use Map are described
in detail in this Element. Strategies 1.1.1 through 1.1.10 describe each land use designation shown on the
Land Use Map and provides a corresponding indication of maximum density or intensity of developments.
Maximum allowable development on individual parcels of land is governed by these measures of density or
intensity. Table I-3 identifies the acreage dedicated to each land use category. Table I-4 presents the overall
future development in Diamond Bar under General Plan buildout. Average residential densities are 100% of
the maximum permitted density. Average commercial/industrial FARs are based on existing development
patterns. For various reasons, many parcels in the community have not been developed to their maximum
density or intensity and, in the future, maximum development as described in this Element can be expected
to occur only on a limited number of parcels. Development at an intensity or density between the expected
and maximum levels can occur only where projects offer exceptional design quality, important public amenities
or benefits, or other factors that promote important goals and policies of the General Plan. For the residential
land use designations, projects are expected to build to a density at least as high as the lowest density allowed
by their respective designations.
Diamond Bar General Plan Land Use Element
May 5, 1995 I -U
TABLE I-3
GENERAL PLAN LAND USE (BY CATEGORY)
(a) Planned Development Acreages included in base bend use desigoad on.
(b) No F.A.R. or potential square footage has been identified for these quasi -public and recreational land use categories
to the wide range of uses permitted (e.g., civic anter, schools, etc.) and bemuse buildings are often part of large
space areas such as golf courses.
Diamond Bar General Plan Land Use Element
I-25
May 5, 1995
permitted Density/
Gross Acres
in the City
Gross
Total Gross
Intensity
Acres in
Acres
Land Use Designations
Sphere
Residential Designations
RR Rural Residential
(1 ac/du)
1,452
3,089
1,452
3,089
RL Low Density Residential
(up to 3 du/ac)
9W
805
RIM Low -Medium Residential
(up to 5 du/ac)
275
275
RM Medium Density
(up to 12 du/ac)
Residential
RMH Medium High Residential
(up to 16 du/ac)
1917
197
66
RH High Density Residential
(up to 20 du/ac)
Subtotal
5,884
5,584
Non -Residential Designations
C General Commercial
(.25 - 1 FAR)
176
176
63
CO Commercial/
(.25 - 1 FAR)
63
Office
OP Professional Office
(.25 - 1 FAR)
168
168
93
I light Industrial
(.25 -1 FAR)
93
Subtotal
500
500
Mind Use Designations
PD Planned Development
(see text)
PD -1
800
401
800
401
PD -2
55
S5
P D-3
?8
78
PD -4
27
27
PD -5
Subtotal
1,361
1,361
Other Designations
PF Public Facilities
0
19
2
0
19
W Water
1
I
F Fire
265
265
S School
158
158
PK Park
GC Golf Course
(b)
178
475
178
475
OS Open Space
S8
58
PR Private Recreation
AG Agriculture
Idu /2 ac
0
3,589
0
684
Fwy/Major Roads
684
Total
9,583
3,591
13,174
(a) Planned Development Acreages included in base bend use desigoad on.
(b) No F.A.R. or potential square footage has been identified for these quasi -public and recreational land use categories
to the wide range of uses permitted (e.g., civic anter, schools, etc.) and bemuse buildings are often part of large
space areas such as golf courses.
Diamond Bar General Plan Land Use Element
I-25
May 5, 1995
TABLE I4
POTENTIAL RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL GROWTH
Land Use
Existing
Units/Sq.-Ft.
Potential
Additional
Expected
Total
ral at
GepPopulation
an
Units/Sq. Ft.
Development
Buildout
Residential
17,813 DUSK"
3,005 DUS13'
20,818
63,500«'
Commercial/
5,865,000 Sq. Ft.(2)
1,550,000 Sq.Ft.
7,415,000
Industrial
1993 Dept. of Pinance
a> The Planning Network, 1990
RwidentW Densities on Vacant Land arc aseumod at 100% of the minimm upermitted density. Includes projccta currently
under construction (7/94)
H> Based on average development n termbes consistent with current development patterns on vacant land. Loludes projects
currently under construction (7/94)
Population based on 3.19 persons per household at a 4.5% vacancy rate.
Diamond Bar General Plan Land Use Element
May 5, 1995 I-26
OPT A
1 Floor —25 % Lot -
Coverage.
• �' Qr
a0
a
L
< lot width — ->
3 Floors
8.33% Lot
Coverage
L
< lot width
2 Floors
12.5% Lot ,
Coverage
i?
.L
jot width
in a zone d'� wfth a n
FAR of 025:1, the maw^
allowable 11oor as s��b bV
40.000 . I fL divided
aq.1t. (10.000 e�quab 025).
by -40,000 Sq.
Gross Building Area (All Floors)
Floor Area Ratio (FAR) ` Lot Area
GENE
L PLAN
Fi aWE I-
' le uil in nt urati n
r - lb
for 0 25:1 Floor Area Ratio
May 5, 1995
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
A. Introduction ................................ N-1
B. Existing Conditions ........................... N-2
C. Public Health and Safety Issues .................... N-6
D. Public Health and Safety Goals,
Objectives, and Strategies ....................... N-9
LIST OF FIGURES
FIGURE
PAGE
IV -1 Local Geologic and Seismic Hazards ............ IV -3
IV -2 Areas Subject to Flooding ................... IV -4
IV -3 Existing Noise Contours ................... IV -16
IV -4 Projected Noise Contours ...................IV -17
LIST OF TABLES
TABLE
PAGE
IV -1 Noise Standards ........................... IV -15
IV. PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY ELEMENT
A. INTRODUCTION
The Public Health and Safety Element contains provisions that relate to the protection of life, health, and
property from natural hazards and man-made hazards. It is designed to identify areas where public and
private decisions on land use need to be sensitive to hazardous conditions caused by slope instability,
seismic activity, flood, fire, and wind.
State planning law requires cities and counties to identify hazardous conditions and to prepare and
implement policies to assure public health and safety. Section 65302(g) of the Government Code
describes these requirements (Safety Element) in the following terms:
"A safety element is for the protection of the community from any unreasonable risks associated
with the effects of seismically induced surface rupture, ground shaking, ground failure, tsunami,
seiche, and dam failure; slope instability leading to mudslides and landslides; subsidence and
other geologic hazards known to the legislative body; flooding; and wildland and urban fires.
The safety element shall include mapping of known seismic and other geologic hazards. It shall
also address evacuation routes, peak load water supply requirements, and minimum road widths
and clearances around structures, as those items relate to identified fire and geologic hazards."
In addition, adoption of a Noise Element has been a requirement of local General Plans since 1971.
Section 65302(h) of the California Government Code requires:
"A noise element which shall identify and appraise noise problems in the community. The noise
element shall recognize the guidelines established by the Office of Noise Control in the State
Department of Health Services and shall analyze and quantify, to the extent practicable, as
determined by the legislative body, current and projected noise levels..."
The Public Health and Safety Element provides the goals and strategies necessary to protect Diamond
Bar residents from the hazards associated with natural and man-made environments. The purpose of
these goals and strategies in this section is to incorporate safety considerations into the City's planning
and decision making process to reduce identifiable risks.
The City of Diamond Bar and its citizens must decide the degree of risk that is acceptable for various
natural and man-made hazards. Risks identified in existing development may be lowered to an acceptable
level by physical alteration, relocation or demolition, or a change in the use altogether. For new
development, the emphasis is to regulate construction so as to minimize identifiable risks to the extent
possible.
The Public Health and Safety Element addresses the following issues:
Geology and Seismicity
Flooding
Fire Protection Services
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Health and Safety Element
May 5, 1995 IV -1
IMPLEMENTATION/MITIGATION MONITORING
A. INTRODUCTION
Adoption of a General Plan is not an end, but a milepost in an ongoing community planning
process. The purpose of this section is to identify implementation actions, as well as to assign
responsibilities to ensure General Plan implementation.
B. GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND
INTERPRETATION
1. ZONING
Following adoption of the Diamond Bar General Plan,. the City's zoning map will be revised as
necessary to be consistent with the General Plan Land Use map. Zoning ordinance provisions
will also be revised in order to maintain consistency with the updated General Plan.
2. SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS
In addition to a comprehensive revision of zoning ordinance provisions, a comprehensive review
and revision of City subdivision regulations will be undertaken to maintain consistency with the
updated General Plan.
3. ANNUAL GENERAL PLAN REVIEW
California Government Code Section 65400(b) requires the planning agency of each city and
county in the State to provide an "annual report to the legislative body on the status of the
(general) plan and progress in its implementation." Such a report will be prepared and delivered
annually to the Diamond Bar City Council.
In addition, AB 3180 (Ch. 1232, Stats. 1988), which amended the California Environmental
Quality Act, requires every city and county to develop a monitoring or reporting plan in order
to mitigate or avoid significant environmental effects. Because the -strategies of the Diamond Bar
General Plan were used as environmental mitigation measures in the Plan's EIR, the annual
report prepared for the City Council regarding implementation of the General Plan will also be
used to satisfy AB 3180 requirements.
4. DEVELOPMENT REVIEW
State law requires that zoning and subdivision actions undertaken by cities and counties be
consistent with the local general plan.
To assist city staff and decisionmal ers, as well as potential applicants and the
public in understanding the General Plan criteria by which individual projects
will be reviewed in the City of Diamond Bar, a Development Review Checklist
will be formulated.
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5. CAmAL FAcn=s
Among the statutory responsibilities of California cities and counties is to "annually review the
capital improvement program of the city or county and the local public works projects of other
local agencies for their consistency with the general plan...." (Government Code Section
65103(c)).
Also, pursuant to State law (Government Code Section 65401), all departments within the city
and all other local government agencies (including the County school districts, and special
districts) must submit a list of proposed projects to the City. The City is then responsible for
reviewing these projects for conformity with the General Plan. Few agencies within the State
of California are in compliance with these requirements. It is the City's intent to execute these
requirements for General Plan consistency reporting and review to the best of its ability.
The annual General Plan consistency report process will be used to comply with the provisions
of Government Code Sections 65301 and 65401.
6. GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENTS
Any amendment to the Plan text or maps must be reviewed by the Planning Commission and be
adopted by the City Council. By law, the General Plan may be amended a maximum of four
times a year (several changes may be grouped into each amendment). The City Council or any
citizen may apply to amend the Plan teat or maps.
Requests are reviewed by both the Planning Commission and Council at public
hearings, and the impacts which would result from implementation are studied
by staff to determine whether the proposal should be supported.
In order to ensure a compatible and consistent General Plan document any
proposed change in the Land Use maps must be consistent with the criteria and
conditions of the text.
a. Processing of Amendments
General Plan amendment requests will be processed in accordance with State Planning Law,
CEQA, and City ordinances. There are three categories of GPAs, with each type being of
greater complexity to review and process in accordance with state requirements. There will be
a range of deposits that reflect the cost of processing each type of application. The three types
of GPAs will be categorized as Major, Land Use, and Technical amendments.
Major Amendments
Major Amendments are any changes to the goals policies, or actions that would alter the basic
policy directions previously set forth within the Plan. A Major Amendment is also a change that
would create substantial extension of urban services. Major amendments will be Council
initiated. Requests for initiations will be heard twice a year.
Any applicant requesting such an amendment will be required to first file a request for Council
action to formally initiate the amendment. After Council initiation, an application may be filed
with the Planning Department by the applicant.
Diamond Bar General Plan Implementation and Mitigation Monitoring
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Land Use and Minor Amendments
Land Use and Minor Amendments will be considered by the Planning Commission on an ongoing
basis. Land Use and Minor Amendments are revisions to the land use designations of the
General Plan, as well as text changes that do not create the need for extension of new urban
services to an area.
Rchnical Amendments
Amendments of this nature are essentially changes to the data base and statistics used in
preparation of the plan, changes to correct textual errors, and changes within the text to clarify
the meaning of policies and actions as adopted. These will be processed on an ongoing basis.
7. INTERPRETATION of THE GENERAL PLAN
a. Map Boundaries and Symbols
In any case where uncertainty exists regarding the location of boundaries of any land use
category, proposed public facility symbol, circulation alignment or other symbol or line found
on the official maps, the following procedures will be used to resolve such uncertainty:
• Boundaries shown as approximately following lot lines, shall be construed to be
following such lot lines.
• Where a land use category applied to a parcel is not mapped to include an
adjacent street or alley, the category shall be considered to extend to the
centerline of the right-of-way.
• Boundaries shown as following or approximately following the limits of any
municipal corporation shall be construed as following such limits.
• Boundaries shown as following or approximately following section lines, half -
section lines, or quarter -section lines shall be construed as following such lines.
• Boundaries shown as following or approximately following the centerlines of
streams, creeks, rivers, or other continuously flowing water courses shall be
construed as following the channel centerline of such water courses taken at
mean low water, and, in the event of a natural change in the location of such
streams, rivers, or other water courses, the zone boundary shall be construed as
moving with the channel centerline.
• Boundaries shown as separated from, and parallel or approximately parallel to,
any of the features listed above shall be construed to be parallel to such features
and at such distances therefrom as are shown on the map.
• Symbols may be used that indicate appropriate locations for proposed public
facilities which are not property specific They indicate only the general area
within which specific facility should be established.
Diamond Bar General Plan Implementation and Mitigation Monitoring
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b. Specific Standards
Where a specific numerical standard is set forth in this plan, that number is an interpretation of
the underlying General Plan text, and may be varied in application, provided that the standard
that is to be varied is found to achieve the same goal as the underlying policy.
C. CEQA REQUIREMENTS
The Diamond Bar General Plan was prepared in accordance with current CEQA guidelines, as
established by the State Office of Planning and Research (OPR). The General Plan EIR
addressed existing setting, impacts, and mitigation measures in a general, or macro -scale,
fashion. It was intended to address City-wide, or regional, impacts of growth consistent with the
City's goals, objectives, and policies. Due to this regional perspective, the General Plan EIR
document fits the definition of a "Program EIR" under the guidelines of CEQA. As defined in
Section 15168, program EIRs are intended to address macro -scale environmental impacts. One
of the major advantages of a program EIR is that it allows the Lead Agency to examine the
cumulative effects of a large-scale project, such as the proposed City of Diamond Bar General
Plan. Section 15168(b) stages:
"... Use of a program EIR can... (1) provide an occasion for a more exhaustive
consideration of effects and alternatives than would be practical in an EIR on an
individual action, (2) ensure consideration of cumulative impacts that might be
slighted in a case-by-case analysis, (3) allow the Lead Agency to consider broad
policy alternatives and program -wide mitigation measures at an early time when
the Agency has greater flexibility to deal with basic problems or cumulative
impacts. "
1. RELATIONSHIP TO FUTURE EwRoNMENTAL DOCUMENTATION
As noted previously, the General Plan Environmental Impact Report was intended to be a
program EIR to address macro -scale impacts. It analyzed the macro -scale impacts expected to
result from future growth consistent with the goals, objectives, policies, and land use designations
set forth in the Diamond Bar General Plan. This document did not directly examine
environmental effects which could or would result from specific projects located on specific sites
within the City.
Recognizing that a program EIR can adequately address macro -scale impacts, CEQA provides
for its use in the environmental review of subsequent specific projects. In this way, this EIR
would be consulted to determine whether a specific project is consistent with the General Plan,
and is therefore within the general limits of the projected land uses examined in this EIR.
Individual projects proposed within Diamond Bar will be reviewed by the City, as Lead Agency,
to determine if additional environmental documentation is required.
CEQA defines how a Program EIR relates to individual project EIRs in Section 15168(c) as
follows:
"Use with Later Activities". Subsequent activities in the program must be
examined in the light of the program EIR to determine whether an additional
environmental document must be prepared.
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INTRODUCTION
GENERAL PLAN
INTRODUCTION
A. VISION STATEMENT
The General Plan for the City of Diamond Bar has a major role to play in the future of its residents.
As the "foundation for City public policy", it must be a statement of the hopes and aspirations of its
citizens and should include a shared mental picture or "vision" of our future. This vision of the future
is an important component of the Plan because it serves to communicate the unified intentions of the
community.
The vision must be imaginative since it includes conditions that do not yet exist. But it must also be
practical in order to motivate appropriate action and sustain commitment toward a common direction.
Accordingly, a Vision Statement is useful in the General Plan as a means of defining scope and emphasis
of the Plan. The following Vision Statement is intended to facilitate consensus on overall community
growth and change; and help define key policy issues and resolution strategies.
What are the major components of the Diamond Bar Vision? What do the citizens of diamond Bar seek
for their community future?
Retention of the rural/country living community character. There is a strong, long -held
goal among residents to maintain and protect distinctive, physical attributes of Diamond
Bar which make it a desirable place in which to live, through a careful balance of
housing, businesses and services, public facilities, and preservation of significant natural
environmental resources.
Preservation of open space resources. Significant privately and publicly owned vacant
area exist within the boundaries of Diamond Bar and within its Sphere of Influence
(SOI). The preservation of these resources contributes to the goal of retaining the City's
distinctive character and offers educational and recreational opportunities.
Portions of the 3,591 acre Sphere of Influence (SOI) and abutting lands within the City
have been included in Significant Ecological Area 15 by the County of Los Angeles.
SEA 15 is considered to be a major significant ecological asset to the community. The
City will play a proactive role in the preservation of this resource by assuring that
extensive analysis and review precede any changes from its current uses and
possibilities.
• Reduction of regional traffic impacts on local streets. Through traffic seriously
encroaches on the City's local streets because of the preexisting inadequate regional
freeway/circulation system. Commuters from neighboring cities make use of City
streets in order to avoid the congested freeway system, to the detriment of local traffic,
with attendant adverse impacts.
The City is committed to a proactive involvement in regional efforts to solve and/or
reduce circulation impacts on the local community. Current plans and programs for
implementation of the Circulation Element are designed to reduce congestion.
• Promotion of viable commercial activity. The City will play a proactive role in business
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
May 5, 1995 1
and economic development. Availability of a full range of desired retail goods and
services and production of needed City sales tax revenue will be addressed by an
Economic Resource Strategic Plan.
Provision ofwell-maintained attractive housing which accommodates people of all ages,
cultures, occupations and levels of financial status.
Creation of a community environment which nurtures social, cultural, religious,
educational and recreational opportunities for its citizens.
The constellation of all parts of this Vision should produce and project an identity which is characterized
by a peaceful, safe community which cherishes the rights of its citizens to grow and Prosper, to assemble
and interact constructively, to create and protect family life, and to be represented by an effective, caring
and productive City government.
The Diamond Bar Vision Statement recognizes that a strong, viable partnership between its citizens and
elected officials will be necessary to make the General Plan work toward attainment of the Vision. The
"path" to the future will require a mutual commitment.
"The future is not a probable place we are being taken to, but a preferred place we are creating.
The tracks to it are not found and followed, but made by laying and constructing a trail'!—Peter
Ellyard, PhD, 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 objective, principals, standards, and plan
proposals.
Seven elements are mandated by the Government Code:
• Land Use • Conservation
Circulation 0 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
elements.
Neither the organization or presentation of the elen7ents are placed with implication of priority or order
of importance. Similarly, the listing of goals, objectives, and strategies do not imply priority or
magnitude of importance.
Diamond eneral Plan Introduction
Bar G
2
May 5, 1995
C. 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 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 time frame 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.
D. CONSISTENCY WrM 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:
STATEWIDE
Surface Mining and Reclamation Act
Alquist-Priolo Special Study Zones Act
Sphere of Influence as regulated by the Local Agency Formation Commission
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
May 5, 1995 3
REGIONAL - South Coast Air Quality Management District
South Coast Air Quality Management Plan
REGIONAL - Southern California Association of Governments
Regional Mobility Plan
Growth Management Plan
Regional Housing Needs Assessment
E. COM IUNUY PARTICIPATION
State law requires citizen participation in the planning process. Recognizing the importance of organized
citizen input into the planning process, a 30 -person General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC) was
established in late 1989 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. Approximately three
dozen Public Workshops were held with the GPAC on a regular basis through the initial, formulation
stages of the planning process. Quarterly Newsletters were utilized to update the community on the
progress of the General Plan. In April, 1992, the GPAC concluded its activities and transmitted a Draft
General Plan to the Planning Commission for review. The Planning Commission conducted thirteen
public hearings to receive input and consider the 1992 General Plan. Notices of initial public hearings
were provided via letter, full -display ads in local newspapers, and posters and kiosks were displayed
within the community.
In June, 1992, the Planning Commission forwarded the Draft General Plan to the City Council for review
and adoption. The Council conducted six extensively -noticed public hearings and adopted the General
Plan on July 14, 1992. Following adoption of the 1992 General Plan, a residents' group circulated a
referendum petition which was ultimately qualified. The City Council exercised its option to reconsider
the adoption of the 1992 General Plan and as a result, on March 16, 1993, rescinded its prior resolution
which adopted the Plan.
The City Council then directed the preparation of a broad-based community participation program to
encourage and obtain community involvement and create the 1993 General Plan. An extensive series of
five public workshops (April, May) and nine public hearings (May, June and July) were conducted.
Workshops and public hearings were noticed to the community by means of newspaper ads, posters,
press releases, cable television public service announcements, and direct mailing to approximately 300
persons and organizations. The results of this process were used in formulation of the 1993 General Plan
to accurately reflect the community's consensus of its vision for the future. Subsequent to the adoption
of the 1993 General Plan, a citizens group again presented a referendum petition to the City. The City
Council repealed the 1993 General Plan in December, 1993.
In January, 1994, the City Council assembled the 38 member 1994 GPAC to begin review of the Draft
General Plan. The GPAC was composed of a variety of residents, as well as property owners and
developers with interests within the City, in addition to Mayor Werner and Councilmember Ansari. This
group participated in 14 public meetings and one study session that extended over a six month period.
The GPAC reviewed each element making significant changes, placing greater importance on open space
retention, hillside preservation and improving the quality of life. The results of their deliberations were
forwarded to the Planning Commission for consideration. The Planning Commission conducted
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
May 5, 1995 4
numerous public hearings from July 11 to October 17, 1994. The City Council held public hearings from
November, 1994 to May, 1995 to review and consider the General Plan. Figure 1 describes the
Community Participation Program for the 1995 General Plan.
F. CrrY 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 eastern end of the
East San Gabriel Valley, adjacent to both State Routes 57 and 60, as shown in Figure 2. Diamond Bar
began as "Rancho 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 1960's, 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
initial conception as a master -planned community, Diamond Bar has not developed in an orchestrated
manner. As a result of this development pattern, Diamond Bar today is primarily a residential
community. In March, 1989, local voters voted to incorporate and on April 18, 1989, Diamond Bar
became Los Angeles County's 86th city.
G. 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 governance
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 of issues is not
intended to imply priorities.
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
May 5, 1995 5
Figure 1 Community Participation Program
To be completed after public hearings
General Plan
Advisory Committee (GPAC)
Meetings
January January February February March March AP61 May May June June June June June une
11 25 8 22 8 22 12 10 24 10 14 16 23 28 30
Planning Commission
Public Hearings
. to?.
July 1 t MY 16 July 18 JOY 25 Aug 1 Aug 6 Aug 15 'Aug 23 Aug 30 Sept 12 Sect 22 Sept 26 OG 17
14*
Apr 10, 1995
Public Meeting
City Council
Public Hearings
Nov 22 Nov 29 .len 9 Jan 16 Jan 24 Jan 31 Feb 6 Feb 13 Feb 16 Feb 23 Feb 28 Mar 6
r
r
May 9
Adoption of the Roure 1
General Plan
City o► Diamond Bar
General Plan
Community Participation Program
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
May 5, 1995 6
o 1 z a ,r
Scale in Miles NORTH
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
SPHERE OF INFLUENCE
GENERAL PLAN
Figure 2
Regional Location
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
May 5, 1995 7
1. Land Use
While much of the City is already developed, there are still substantial vacant parcels of land in the
community and the SOI. Some vacant properties are suitable for development and others should be
preserved for open space because of their significant environmental resource value. Three major sub -
issues affect formulation of land use policy for Diamond Bar. First, economic pressure for development
of vacant land conflicts with the community desire to maintain the quality of the existing environment.
Second, the status of deed and map restrictions affect the development potential of vacant properties.
Resolution of this conflict will require a careful balancing of appropriate development and retention of
open space.
Third, the status of significant environmental resources within SEA 15 (Toner Canyon/Chino Hills
Significant Ecological Area) requires further analysis and definition. As defined by the County of Los
Angeles, it is "a regional, riparian woodland complex". It is part of a three -county regional
environmental system. The Firestone Boy Scout Reservation, Tonner Canyon Road and cattle grazing
have been the only intrusive uses. However, regional circulation studies have considered various
proposals including a "regional bypass roadway" within the SOI which would help resolve local traffic
congestion impacts. Definition of the precise configuration and alignment of that roadway in order to
avoid disruption of sensitive environmental resources requires further study.
2. Circulation
The City's location at the interchange of major east/west and north/south freeways (State Routes 60 and
57) and pre -incorporation decisions effectively limit the City's ability to achieve an efficient circulation
system. While the local circulation system is adequate for ordinary local traffic requirements, the
deficient freeway interchange forces regional commuter traffic onto local streets creating extreme
congestion during peak travel periods. The multiplicity of relevant county and local jurisdictions and
State agencies both challenges and complicates regional planning solutions. Solutions must include
consideration of a full range of options, including improvement of freeway capacity and access,
transportation demand management and sensitively planned and compatible expanded regional arterial
systems. The key to effective solutions is through continued intergovernmental and inter -agency
cooperation.
3. Economics
While Cityhood has brought local control, attendant to that is responsibility for planning for the economic
well being of the City. Short and long term revenue projections are inadequate to support current levels
of municipal services and provision of needed capital improvements. The reasons include limited
opportunities for generation of sales tax; diminishing availability of Federal, State and County funding;
and property tax limitations. Further, the City has an inadequate mix and a limited range of viable retail
uses.
Underlying all proposed responsibilities of government is a fundamental fiscal fact: Virtually all
governmental activity and programs are financed by taxpayer dollars. Whether city, county, regional,
state, or national economic cycles reflect growth and prosperity, or reflect recessive constriction and
depression, the ability of a community and its servant government to pay for services must be a dominant
concern. This General Plan, conceived in a time of regional and state economic recession, recognizes
the need for fiscal prudence and effective, efficient management of the community's resources. The
General Plan is also designed to allow for some prudent, careful future expansion when the area's
economy has improved to warrant change. Such recognition embraces a range of imperatives from fiscal
survival to enhancement of Quality of Life.
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
May 5, 1995 9
H. DOCUNWM CONTENTS
The following elements of the Diamond Bar General Plan have been designed to address the variety of
environmental issues that affect the City.
Diamond Bar
State Mandated
General Plan General Plan Elements
Issues
Land Use Bement
Land Use
Land Use `
Housing Element
Housing
Housing
Visual Resources
Resource
Open Space
Biological Resources
Management
Conservation
Park and Recreation
Element
Water Resources
Energy Resources
Solid Waste
Mineral Resources
Agriculture-
gricultureSammy
Safety
Geology
Seismicity
Flooding
Public Health
Fire Protection
and Safety Element
Crime Protection
Emergency Services
Hazardous Materials
Air Quality
Noise
Noise
Public Services and
City Financing
Facilities Element
Economic Development
Circulation
Circulation Element
Circulation
Trails
Automobile
Bicycle
Equestrian
Aviation
Truck Routes
Public Transit
Railroad
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
May 5, 1995 9
I. GENERAL •• PLAN FORMAT
The 1995 Diamond Bar Draft General Plan is divided into three documents for ease of reference.
1. Document 1: General Plan
The first document contains the six 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 Circulation Elements.
2. Document 2: Final Environmental Impact Report/Technical Appendices
(Certified 7/14/92) (Includes Mitigation Monitoring Plan)
This document contains the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) 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 Addendum to the Final Environmental Impact Report (FEIR) was
prepared on the 1993 revised General Plan. Addendum #2 has been prepared addressing the 1995
General Plan.
3. Document 3: Master Environmental Assessment (adopted 7/14/92)
The Master Environmental Assessment for the City, which provides a comprehensive and consistent
baseline of environmental data from which further (project -specific) environmental analyses can be
performed, was adopted on 7/14/92 and is incorporated by reference as part of the 1995 General Plan.
The organization of the General Plan can thus be visualized as follows:
Document 1
Introduction
Land Use Element
Housing Element
Resource Management Element
Public Health and Safety Element
Public Services and Facilities Element
Circulation Element
Document 2
Environmental Impact Report
Technical Appendices
Document 3
Master Environmental Assessment
Diamond Bar General Plan Introduction
May 5, 1995 10
Draft
GENERAL PLAN
May, 1995
1990 GENERAL PLAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP
-- Karla Adams
Ed Layton
Dr. Jui-Keung Lin
Carole Anderson
Cartherine Lott
John Bennett
Dexter MacBride
Ross Bilotta
Pat McGinn
PaulBordwell
David Meyer
Tim Brunridge
Steve Nelson
Karen Castleman
Khanh Nguyen
Todd Chavers
Victor Ochoa
Noel Cunningham
Cmdee Quan
Jan Dabney
Don Robertson
Rose Dam
Don Schad
Bruce Flamenbaum
Kofi Sefa-Boakye
Art Fritz
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
CITY STAFF
James DeStefano, Community Development Director
Robert L. Searcy, Associate Planner
Ann J. Lunge, Assistant Planner
Marilyn C. Ortiz, Administrative Secretary
CONSULTANTS
Cotton/Beland/Associates, Inc.
Charles Abbott Associates
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
CITY COUNCEL
Phyllis E. Papen, Mayor Jay C. Kim (Former Councilmember)
Gary H. Werner, Mayor Pro Tem Paul Horcher (Former Councilmember)
Don Nardella (Former Councilmember)
Eileen Ansari, Councilmember
Clair W. Harmony, Councilmember John A. Forbing (Former Councilmember)
Gary E. Miller, Councilmember Dexter MacBride (Former Councilmember)
Terrence L. Belanger, City Manager Robert L. Van Nort (Former City Manager)
Ken Anderson
PLANNING COMMSSION
Bruce Flamenbaum, Chairman
Dexter MacBride (Former Commissioner)
Grace Lin (Former Commissioner)
Bob Huff, Vice Chairman
David Meyer, Commissioner
Lydia Plunk, (Former Commissioner)
Clair W. Harmony (Former Commissioner)
Franklin Fong, Commissioner
Don Schad, Commissioner
David Schey (Former Commissioner)
George Barrett
Robert Kane (Former Commissioner)
Barbara Beach-Courchesne
Jack Grothe (Former Commissioner)
Terry Birrell
Michael Li (Former Commissioner)
1994 GENERAL PLAN ADVISORY CorAARTTEE MEMBERSHW
Ken Anderson
Bernie Mazur
Nick Anis
Kathleen McCarthy
Bob Arceo
David Meyer
Frank Arciero, Jr.
Peter Mitchell
George Barrett
Kishor M. Naik
Barbara Beach-Courchesne
Steve Nice
Terry Birrell
Debbi Noyes
Martha Bruske
Arthur O'Daly
Todd Chavers
Jim Paul
Haji Dayala
Albert Perez, Jr.
Jan Dabney
Ray Rebeiro
Ron Fitzgerald
Rey Reyes
Edda Gahm
Sherry Rogers
Mike Goldenberg
Don Schad
Don Gravdahl
David Schey
Jack Healy
Sue Sisk
Robert Huff
Wilbur Smith
Greg Hummel
Eric Stone
Jack Istik
Reg Truman
Dorian Johnson
Steven Tye
Steve Johnson
Dan Wildish
Chiman Kotecha
Tom Van Winkle
Oscar Law
Joyce Leonard
Mayor Gary Werner
Chris Li
Councilwoman Eileen Ansari
Max Maxwell
HOUSING
ELEMENT
GENERAL PLAN
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
A. Introduction ................................. H-1
B. Citizen Participation ............................ II -2
C. Housing Needs Assessment ....................... II -2
D. Housing Availability ............................ II -12
E. Progress Report ............................... II -23
F. Housing Goals, Objectives, and Strategies .............. U-26
II. HOUSING ELEMENT
A. OrMODUCTION
The purpose of the Housing Element is to identify local housing problems and needs, relate those needs
to the City's proportionate share of regional housing needs, and to identify measures necessary to
mitigate and alleviate these needs and problems for all economic segments of the community. The key
purpose of this section is to contribute to meeting the State housing goals as stated below:
"The availability of housing is of vital statewide importance, and the early attainment of decent
housing and a suitable living environment for every California family is a priority of the highest
order." (Government Code Section 65581)
The Housing Element is intended to provide residents of the community and local government officials
with a greater understanding of the housing needs in Diamond Bar and to provide guidance to the
decision-making process in all matters relating to housing. In 1967, housing elements became the third
mandated part of general plans. During the ensuing 15 years, numerous revisions were made to the
required contents of community housing elements. In 1981, Article 10.6 of the Government Code,
commonly referred to as the Roos Bill, was enacted and now describes the content requirements of local
housing elements. The Housing Element, in complying with the letter and spirit of Article 10.6, must
respond to the three major issues which are listed below:
An assessment of local housing needs and an inventory of local resources and constraints
relevant to meeting those local needs.
A statement(s) of community's goals, quantified objectives, and policies relative to the
maintenance, improvement and development of housing.
A program which sets forth a five-year schedule of actions the local government is
undertaking or intends to undertake to implement the policies and achieve the goals and
objectives of the Housing Element.
In 1977, "Housing Element Guidelines" were published by the State Department of Housing and
Community Development (HCD). The guidelines spelled out not only the detailed content requirements
of housing elements but also gave the HDC a "review and approval" function over this element of the
General Plan. In 1981, the Roos Bill placed the guidelines into statutory language and changed the
HCD's role from "review and approval" to one of "review and comment" on local housing elements.
State law requires an update of local housing elements every five years, so that they contain the most
current version of the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA), developed by the local Council of
Governments. The RHNA report estimates the total projected need for housing by income category in
the region, then provides the proportionate share each city must provide. For this six -county region, the
Southern California Association of Governments (SLAG) is the local Council of Governments for Los
Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura, and Imperial Counties. SCAG adopted the
RHNA for the 1989-1994 cycle in December 1988, prior to the City of Diamond Bar's incorporation.
In the absence of regional housing needs figures provided by SCAG, this Housing Element relies on
advisory figures provided to the City by the State Department of Housing and Community Development.
The City did not, however, have the same opportunity as communities which received draft RHNA
figures from SCAG to review these figures to ensure consistency with growth projects assumptions
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
May 5, 1995 11-1
- regarding land which is suitable for development.
Local housing elements generally use population and housing data based either on the regular decennial
federal census, or on updated figures from SCAG or other regional planning groups (such as Los Angeles
County). The City's 1989 Housing Element was prepared prior to release of most of the 1990 census
data for the City. As part of this current (1994) revision to the Element, 1990 census data has been
incorporated where relevant.
After adoption of the General Plan by the City Council, a revised Housing Element will be required by
1996. The 1996 Housing Element will be able to utilize the entire 1990 census and RHNA data for
Diamond Bar, and will be. able to monitor progress toward achieving the established five-year goals,
policies, and programs to determine how well they have met the housing needs of the community. In
addition, three separate pieces of reform legislation are currently being proposed which would drastically
modify the content and review process of the Housing Element. If any of these bills become law, the
next Housing Element will need to be substantially revised to conform to its requirements.
The Housing Element is organized to present information according to the following four principal topics,
as outlined in the state housing element guidelines:
• Housing Needs Assessment
• Inventory of Resources and Constraints
• Statement of Goals, Objectives and Policies
• Five -Year Housing Plan
B. CITIZEN PARTICIPATION
Elected officials appointed a 30 -person General Plan Advisory Committee to identify housing issues in
the City as part of the first General Plan. This committee met on a regular basis for over two and one-
half years. All committee meetings were open to the public, and representatives were selected based on
their interests or knowledge on particular local issues, including housing. In addition, the Land Use and
Housing Elements underwent various workshops and hearings, including presentations on housing data
and goals, policies and objectives for housing within Diamond Bar. As part of the 1994 revision to the
General Plan, the Housing Element was reviewed by a new 38 member GPAC, and underwent additional
refinements based on this group's direction.
C. HOUSING NEEDS ASSESSMENT
The Housing Needs Assessment encompasses the following factors:
• Analysis of population and employment trends and documentation of projections and a
quantification of the locality's existing and projected housing needs for all income
levels. Such existing and projected needs include the locality's share of the regional
housing need. (Section 65583(a)(1) of the Government Code)
• 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))
0 Analysis of special housing needs, such as those of the handicapped, elderly, large
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
May S, 1995 1I-2
C. Housing Conditions/Substandard Units
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.
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 Building Official indicate that
Diamond Bar has very few units that are considered substandard, and all are suitable for rehabilitation.
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 three (3), or less
than half of one percent, were boarded up.
d. Regional Housing Needs
State law requires jurisdictions to provide for their share of regional housing needs. Normally, as part
of the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA), SCAG determines the five year housing growth
needs by income category for cities within its jurisdiction. Future housing needs reflect the number of
new units needed in a jurisdiction based on households which are expected to reside within the
jurisdiction (future demand), plus an adequate supply of vacant housing to assure mobility and new units
to replace losses. However, because Diamond Bar had not yet incorporated at the last time the estimates
were prepared in 1988, the RHNA did not provide the 1989-1994 estimates for the corporate boundaries
of Diamond Bar. In addition, due to a suspension in State funding, the current housing element cycle
is being extended two years, and SCAG will not be developing the new 1996-2000 RHNA until sometime
in 1995.
In the absence of an assignment of future housing needs by SCAG, the State Department of Housing and
Community Development (HCD) has provided the City with advisory figures for its share of regional
housing needs. However, the City was not afforded the same review/appeal procedure provided to cities
as part of the RHNA process to ensure consistency with local growth projections and to reflect the
presence of constraints to development. While the City can demonstrate adequate sites to fulfill its
regional housing needs as defined by the State, the income distribution reflects that of Los Angeles
County, and does not adjust for the City's income profile where less than 20 percent of households are
low or very low income (source: CHAS Databook). In addition, the rate of growth has been well below
that predicted by the State.
Given these shortcomings, the RHNA developed by the State does not realistically reflect Diamond Bar's
actual future housing needs. However, given the absence of other regional needs figures from SCAG
which can serve for this Housing Element cycle, the City has chosen to adopt the State's figures as its
quantified objective for new construction and can demonstrate adequate sites to meet these needs.
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
May 5, 1995 H-4
— The age -sex distribution for 1990 in Diamond Bar was very even with 26,663 males and 27,009 females.
By age -group, 28.6 percent of the City's residents are under the age of 18, while 9.9 percent are within
the 18-24 age bracket. People between the ages of 2544 make up 38.2 percent, while 10.5 percent of
the City's residents are over 55 years of age (as shown in Table II -2).
It is important for planning social services and housing in the City over the next two decades to analyze
the population of these four age groups. The substantial percentage of persons under the age of 18 and
between the ages of 25-44 suggest the presence of many young families with children in the City. The
25-44 age group is also the range in which most households are formed.
It is also important to note the percentage of the City's population that is within the 18-24 age group.
This represents a component of the population of child bearing age which will require housing in the
future. This age group, coupled with the 25-44 age group, indicates that a combined 48.1 percent of the
City's population is either in, or near to, the household formation age. The City will need to ensure a
future housing stock that will be sufficient to accommodate their needs.
In Diamond Bar as throughout Southern California, there are more females than males in both the 55+
and 65+ age groups. This preponderance of females in the elderly population indicates that females tend
to live longer than males, and is identical to the national trends. In 1990 there were 1,963 households
in the City with one person.
Table U-2
Diamond Bar Age Distribution
Source: 1980 Census and 1990 Census.
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
May 5, 1995 H-6
large households are renters overpaying for housing costs.
While large families traditionally experience housing needs related to their lower incomes, large family
households in Diamond Bar are predominately upper income, and are adequately housed in the City's
larger single-family homes.
Overcrowding is defined as housing units with 1.01 or more persons per room. According to the 1990
Census, the incidence of overcrowding in Diamond Bar was minimal with 5.8 percent, or 992 households
defined as overcrowded.
d. Female -Headed Households
Single -parent households require special consideration and assistance because of their greater need for
day care, health care, and other facilities. Female -headed households with children in particular tend
to have lower incomes, thus limiting housing availability for this group. In 1990, Diamond Bar had an
estimated 1,394 female householder families, representing nearly ten percent of the City's family
households. Of these, only 92 households had incomes which fell below the poverty level. Nearly two-
thirds (865 households) of the City's female households had related children under the age of eighteen.
Housing opportunities for female -headed households are addressed through overall programs to increase
the supply of affordable housing, and for the provision of affordable childcare.
e. Persons in Need of Emergency Shelter: Homeless
There are many social, economic, and physical conditions which have combined to increase the homeless
population throughout the State of California. In September 1984, the Governor signed Assembly Bill
2579, adding "families and persons in the need of emergency shelter" to the special needs groups to be
considered in each jurisdiction's housing element.
1990 Census data indicates there are no homeless persons either in shelters or in "street locations" in
Diamond Bar. Larry Luter with the Walnut Sheriffs Office questioned the officers assigned to Diamond
Bar to determine if they were aware of any homeless persons living within the City; the officers indicated
that they knew of no homeless persons or families within Diamond Bar. Interviews with the directors
of the local homeless shelters did not provide any evidence that homeless persons exist in Diamond Bar.
Part of this reason is the City's suburban -location and absence of transit facilities and urban public spaces
which might attract homeless individuals or families. Income and wealth characteristics of Diamond Bar
residents indicate that residents have financial and other resources to draw on in the event of emergencies
that could otherwise precipitate a housing crisis.
While Diamond Bar does not currently have a homeless population, the City will coordinate with and
direct any homeless to local social service providers in the future. A variety of facilities provide services
to the homeless or to people who are at risk of becoming homeless, including battered women and low
income families. A list of the facilities and types of services available are described in Table H-3.
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
May 5, 1995 H-8
TABLE 11-3
AREA HOMELESS FACILITIES & SERVICES
(Continued)
Chicano Service Action Families or single 12 EMERGENCY SHELTER
Center, Chicano Family women food, clothing, furniture, and
Services, Pomona I I job training
Women's & Family Crisis Homeless/battered 8 SHELTER IS IN LOS
Center Social Services, women ANGELES. Referral
Pomona services, counseling, medical
assistance, food and
transportation.
Bienvenidos Children Center, Children 3 years or 43 EMERGENCY SHELTER
Inc., West Covina younger who are
victims of abuse/
neglect or abandon-
ment
Y.W.C.A., Wings Shelter,I Battered Women and I 32 I Shelter, food, and counseling
West Covina children services
Source: City of Pomona, CHAS, October 1991. County of Loc Angeles, CHAS, 1991.
There are several emergency and transitional shelters located in the Diamond Bar area. The Pomona
Valley Shelter Program ("Our House") is located in Pomona and has 22 year-round spaces. According
to the director, the shelter does not maintain a waiting list and is always full (Joyce Ewing 1991). This
is also one of the few shelters in the region that takes families. The second shelter is the "Neighborhood
Center", which utilizes the National Guard Armory in Pomona and is opened during cold or inclement
weather, usually during November to February. The Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department will
transport homeless individuals to the Armory in cold weather. The closest shelter in Los Angeles County
is operated by the Gospel Mission of America in Rowland Heights. This facility is for single men only
and has 30 spaces; it also is full year-round.
The County also provides funds for "vouchers" for homeless persons to utilize hotel rooms on a
temporary basis; this program is presently being administered by the Salvation Army.
f. Farmworkers
There are no farmworkers known to be living within the City of Diamond Bar as there are no active
farms in or near the City. The 1990 census indicates 146 of the City's residents are employed in
"Agriculture, Forestry or Fisheries" representing less than 0.3% of the population. The Los Angeles
County Agricultural Commission, the California Department of Employment and Economic Development,
the Agricultural Employer's Labor Board, University of California Agricultural Extension Program, and
the California Farm Advisor were all contacted to determine if there was any data on the location of farm
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
May 5, 1995 H-10
"The purpose of this analysis is to show that the locality has to consider how energy
conservation might be achieved in residential development and how energy conservation
requirements may contribute to the affordability of units.
Following are examples of local policies, plans, and development standards that have been
successful in reducing energy costs or consumption:
• promotion of compact, higher density, and infill development;
• the active, constructive enforcement by local building officials of existing state residential
energy conservation standards;
• standards for street widths, landscaping of streets and parking lots to reduce heat loss or
provide shade; and
• standards for energy efficient retrofits to be met prior to resale of homes."
Diamond Bar enforces the State's energy conservation regulations on all new dwelling units. Special
attention to energy conservation opportunities also will be given to any large-scale residential
developments that may be proposed in the future, and the rehabilitation of existing units. The Energy
section of the Plan for Resource Conservation should be referred to for more detail and for relevant
objectives and implementation strategies.
D. HOUSING AVAH ABILITY
This section provides an inventory of resources and constraints relevant to addressing Diamond Bar's
housing needs. Under present law, the element must include an inventory of resources and constraints
as follows:
• An inventory of land suitable for residential development, including vacant sites and sites
having potential for redevelopment, and an analysis of the relationship of zoning and public
facilities and services to these sites.
• An analysis of potential and actual governmental constraints upon the maintenance,
improvement, or development of housing for all income levels, including land use controls,
building codes and their enforcement, site improvements, fees and other exactions required
of developers, and local processing and permit procedures.
• An analysis of potential and actual non-governmental constraints upon the maintenance,
improvement, or development of housing for all income levels, including the availability of
financing, the price of land and cost of construction.
1. Inventory of Land Suitable for Residential Development
State housing law contains several provisions that pertain to the adequacy of sites to accommodate
housing needs:
• "The housing element shall identify adequate sites for housing, including rental housing,
factory -built housing, and mobilehomes, and shall make adequate provision for the existing
and projected needs of all economic segments of the community."
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
May 5, 1995 U-12
Table 11-4
Residential Development Potential
During Housing Element Cycle
• to be determined
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
May 5, 1995 I1-14
Units
Land Use Category
Vacant Land
Developed
Unit Totals
Since 7/89
Acres
DUs
Rural Residential
379
379
30
409
(0.0 -1.0 du/ac)
Low Density Residential
192
576
50
140
(1.1 - 3.0 du/ac)
Low -Medium Density Residential
0
0
0
0
(3.1 - 5.0 du/ac)
Medium Density Residential
0
0
0
0
(5.1 - 12.0 du/ac)
Medium High Density Residential
2.2
36
60
96
(12.1 - 16.0 du/ac)
High Density Residential
13.5
270
0
270
(16.1-20.0 du/ac)
Planned Development
0
0
PD -1
800
*
PD -2
401
130
PD -3
55
0
P¢4
78
165
PD -5
27
135
430
TOTALS
1,785.7
1,205
140
1,345
• to be determined
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
May 5, 1995 I1-14
The most significant residential development opportunity remaining in Diamond Bar exists on the 800
acre Tres Hermans property. The Land Use Element calls for a mixed residential community on this
site, and provides for a mix of housing types and densities subject to preparation of a Planned
Development. The Planned Development mechanism will allow for flexibility in development standards
and clustering of housing beyond that provided for through zoning. It is intended that housing developed
within Tres Hermanos could be built at densities higher than 20 units per acre, providing affordability
for the City's identified share of lower income housing needs. The City of Industry owns the Tres
Hermans property, and has prepared a concept plan for a mixed residential community on the site
pursuant to Diamond Bar's request.
The land within the current City limits that is available for general residential development could yield
an additional 1,205 units. Combined with the 140 units already developed during this planning period,
this potential supply exceeds the projected local need figure of 781 dwellings for the 1989 - 1994 time
period, based on the State's determination of the City's housing needs.
a. Residential Land Use Categories
The Diamond Bar Land Use Element provides for a range of residential types and densities through the
following land use categories.
Agricultural (1.0 du/2 ac)
Areas designated for Agricultural include the Sphere of Influence.
Rural 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 modes amount of open space.
The maximum gross density of Rural Residential will be 1.0 dwelling unit per gross acre (1 du/ac) or
less, depending upon the establishment of a slope density ordinance.
Low Density Residential (1.1- 3.0 dul")
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). 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 3 du/ac.
Low -Medium Density Residential (3.1- 5.0 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 five dwelling units per gross acre (5 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 5 du/ac.
Medium Density (5.1 - 12.0 du/ac
The areas designed Medium Density are committed to multiple family and mobilehome use. Within the
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
May 5, 1995 U-16
of Diamond Bar does not currently have a Redevelopment Agency although the City may evaluate
establishment of a commercial project area in the future. The City's limited financial resources preclude
the use of City General Funds monies for housing assistance. The City of Industry, under SB 1718, is
required to contribute approximately eight or nine million dollars annually to the County Housing
Authority for the construction of low and moderate housing within a five mile radius of the City of
Industry.
The limited availability of Federal, State, and local funding sources for affordable housing in Diamond
Bar during the time frame of this Element, coupled with the high cost of land and construction, act as
a significant constraint to the provision of affordable housing in the City. Private financing of affordable
housing is also unlikely given the topographic and environmental constraints to housing present on
remaining vacant parcels in the City. The Housing Element does include a strategy (2.3.5) to pursue
available State, Federal and private programs to expand housing opportunities.
b. Conflicting Responsibilities of Local Government
The mandate that local governments provide for housing for all economic segments of the community
is but one of many, often conflicting, responsibilities they face. In addition to dealing with issues of
affordable housing and housing rehabilitation, cities must provide municipal services and facilities,
protect the natural environment, ensure a high quality of development and urban design, reflect the
concerns of City residents, and facilitate increases in local employment and sales tax -generating uses.
These responsibilities must be met in an era of increasingly tight budgets.. As a result of State laws
relating to municipal finance, reductions in Federal and State funds for infrastructure and other programs,
and changing public attitudes toward growth, local agencies have had to require that development
internalize many costs which were once subsidized by various public funds. As a result, the cost of
development inevitably increases and the American dream of owning a home becomes more difficult for
those who are not fortunate to already own a home.
c. Development Standards and Land Use Controls
Development standards include zoning ordinances, subdivision ordinances, and building code
requirements. The most far-reaching constraints are those contained in the city's zoning ordinance which
is the most traditional tool used by a local jurisdiction to regulate the use of private land. Zoning
regulates the use; density; floor area; setbacks; parking; and placement and mix of residential,
commercial, and industrial projects to reflect the community's development goals and objectives. Zoning
can reduce the supply of land available for residential development by rezoning residential land for other
uses. Zoning also regulates the intensity of residential land use through minimum lot size requirements.
It is important that the minimum lot size not be too large because this would (a) reduce the potential
supply of housing by limiting the number of units that can be built on a parcel of land, and would (b)
increase the land cost per unit. High land costs may lead to increased construction cost for the
developers.
In Diamond Bar, much of the remaining vacant land is steep or has other physical limitations to
development. While careful engineering and construction can overcome many of these limitations, they
result in higher unit costs and subsequently reduce the affordability of housing built in hillside areas.
Subdivision regulations which govern the division of a parcel of land into two or more smaller parcels
can increase housing construction costs. The requirement that site improvements and amenities such as
landscaping, underground utilities, and landscape maintenance districts be required in a subdivision can
also escalate housing prices.
When analyzing development constraints, it is important to distinguish between those constraints that are
excessive and unreasonable, and those designed for a particular purpose. The City, while encouraging
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
May 5, 1995 U-18
The role that fees play in constraining the production of housing is difficult to measure, although they
can affect housing prices in certain markets. The theory behind fees is that new development should bear
its own costs, and that these costs should be spread as equitably as possible. State law requires that fees
must bear a reasonable relationship to the actual costs incurred by the City, so that they do not becomes
excessive.
Even so, fees may add significantly to the cost of a housing unit, especially in those areas of the City
that are largely undeveloped and require new infrastructure and services to be developed.
Preliminary results of a fee survey conducted by the City of La Puente indicate that Diamond Bar's
development fees are fairly average for cities of similar size (Jacobson 1991). The City of Diamond Bar
also retained the firm of Hogle-Ireland to review development fees. The conclusion of the Hogle-Ireland
study was to confirm that City fees are comparable to those of other cities of similar size. Diamond Bar
charges fees based on the actual cost of permit processing. The current rate is $75 per hour.
e. Processing lime
Before development can occur, it is necessary that certain permits, inspections, and approvals be
obtained. These procedures, although necessary to insure the development is safe and in compliance with
local regulations and building code requirements, can sometimes lead to delays in projects and
subsequently increase costs. Moreover, excessive processing time may act as a constraint on the
production of affordable housing, because it increases carrying costs to the developer for land, financing,
etc.
Development processing time in Diamond Bar is shorter than processing through the County of Los
Angeles. It is estimated that the typical tract map which took 18 months to process through the County
would be processed in approximately 12 months at the City. This is because the local staff is more
knowledgeable of local conditions. Potential causes which may significantly add to the processing time
are constraints due to the unique environmental characteristics of the hillsides, geotechnical concerns,
traffic impacts and concerns for the preservation of the City's remaining natural topography. As a result,
review of hillside development proposals, which constitute a majority of residential applications at
present, is necessarily more complex than processing tracts on flat land, which represented the majority
of projects processed by the County. However, the City shall continue to comply with all provisions of
the State Subdivision Map Act.
f. Public Housing
Article 34 of the California Constitution was adopted as an initiative by the voters in 1951, primarily in
response to the increasing number of Federally -funded, tax exempt public housing projects. These
projects were perceived to have negative social, economic, and aesthetic effects on local communities.
Article 34 states that before a "state public body" can "develop, construct, or acquire in any manner"
a "low -rent housing project", the local voters must approve the endeavor. All three "factors" must be
present for the referendum to be required.
The Article 34 referendum requirement has often proved to be a psychological or actual barrier to the
development of many forms of assisted low rent housing, particularly those intended for low income
families. Because of the Article's vague language, communities have been reluctant to risk litigation by
entering into the development of public housing for low and moderate income families. While there have
been many successful referendums, failures have not been uncommon. As such, there is a tendency for
local governments to avoid possible controversy with this type of ballot measure.
3. Non -Governmental Constraints
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
May 5, 1995 II -20
_ The cost of permanent mortgage financing for new and existing homes, as well as cost of new residential
construction financing, play a significant role in the affordability of housing. General inflation in the
economy directly and indirectly causes housing prices to increase, which in turn raises finance costs.
As the absolute price of a home increases, it adds to the mortgage amount which results in increases in
the principal, interest, insurance, and taxes a home buyer must pay.
d. Speculation
Speculation in real estate occurs when real estate investors buy housing or land at "low prices" and then
resell it at a much higher value within a short period of time. The problem is particularly acute if
property rapidly changes hands from speculator to speculator. The price the eventual long term owner
or consumer will pay could be highly inflated. Speculation affects not only the individual property, but
the market climate in the area as a whole.
Because there are few statistics available on the rate of property turnover and the profit received from
transactions, the amount of speculative activity and its impact on the City's rising housing costs is not
clearly known at this time.
e. Contractual Constraints
Many open space areas in Diamond Bar were precluded from development as a condition of approval
for the tract. Often, these area were calculated as the open space requirement for the adjacent
development, and additional densities may have been granted in exchange for retaining these areas as
open space.
Some residential developments in Diamond Bar have formed private homeowner's associations, and have
placed Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&Rs) on open space areas in their tracts, thereby
limiting permitted development. In many instances, the deed restrictions on development in open space
areas were a result of trade-offs to allow greater density in the flatter portions of the residential tract.
Major vacant land areas in Diamond Bar subject to development restrictions are mapped in Figure II -3.
f. Housing Discrimination
As a characteristic of the housing market, discrimination may often present a barrier to providing an
adequate choice of housing for all groups. Discrimination, which may be defined as prejudicial treatment
applied categorically and not on the merit of the individual, takes many forms. Most forms of housing
discrimination are a violation of State and Federal laws, which prohibit discrimination against
homeseekers for reasons of race, religion, national origin, ancestry, color, sex, or marital status. Some
of the types of discrimination encountered are refusal to rent or sell, inflated rents, higher prices,
excessive deposits, unreasonable occupancy standards, limited choice among available units, and poor
maintenance and repair. The target populations subject to discrimination are not limited to racial and
ethnic minorities, but also include recipients of welfare and public assistance, families with young
children, young unmarried persons, and the handicapped.
Redlining is also a form of discrimination, wherein home improvement and mortgage loans are not made
available by a lending institution in lower-income or minority neighborhoods. Redlining involves the
use of varying criteria for home financing based upon geographical differences. Often referred to as
"neighborhood disinvestment", redlining practices include outright refusal by a lending institution to
approve home purchase and rehabilitation loans, making loan conditions stricter (e.g., higher down
payment, higher interest rates, higher closing cost), or appraising property below market value or with
more rigid standards than used on comparable property in other neighborhoods. Older declining
neighborhoods with high minority concentrations were often targets of redlining practices in the past.
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
May 5, 1995 II -22
CITY OF INDUSTRY
cowhagm CaLLas
WALNUT
POMONA
CHINO HILLS
SAN
BERNARDINO
COUNTY
K5 7 =77 >
NWIH 0 2000 AM 6000 FEET 1010
--r- CONTAINS HISTORIC LANDSLIDE
Lj to= &10 mgybm be= nm0•eab► I GENERAL PLAN
M CONTAINS SLOPES GREATER THAN 25 %
SIGNAL= AND UNSIGNM= F i r 11-
LUNGAMA W=nCn0NSOPER TING ATLEMOFSFRVICEEOtF
1992 environmental and
SOUR=, City of Diamml Bar Maas Enviww="l A""m"Mt
infrastructure Constraints
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
May 5, 1995 II -24
F. HOUSING GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND STRATEGIES
"ITIS THE OVERALL GOAL OF THE PLANTHAT THERE BEADEQUATE HOUSING IN THE
CITY, BOTHINQUALlTYAND QUANTITY, TO PROWDEAPPROPRIATESIIEZ„TERFOR ALL
WITHOUT DISCRIMINATION. ”
GOAL 1 "Consistent with the Vision Statement, the City should provide opportunities for
development of suitable housing to meet the diverse needs of existing and future
residents."
Objective 1.1 Development of an adequate supply of housing to meet Diamond Bar's housing growth
needs as follows:
Strategies:
1.1.1 Where feasible, consider commercial/office developments which propose a
residential component as part of an overall mixed use concept.
1.1.2 Ensure the City's development standards do not unduly constrain the creation
of affordable housing.
1.1.3 Prepare a public information packet summarizing the City's zoning and
development requirements for residential construction.
1.1.4 Establish a monitoring program which identifies the type and cost of housing
being produced within Diamond Bar, as well as the availability of vacant land
which can be used to accommodate a variety of housing types; produce required
reports to accomplish the programs outlined in this plan for housing that is
affordable to "very low", "low", and "moderate" income households.
1.1.5 To ensure well planned residential growth while meeting the City's housing
responsibilities, review proposed residential projects, General Plan amendments,
and changes of zone for their effects on the neighborhood, the City, and
regional housing needs.
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
May 5, 1995 II -26
1.5.2 On all applications for subdivision and
development approval, require the
submission of a title report or other
acceptabledocumentationof deed and map
restrictions.
ExistingI Parks and
Program Recreation
Director;
Complete
needs assess-
ment within 1
year of
General Plan
adoption;
establish
needed
funding within
six months
thereafter
General fund;
park
development
funds;
assessment
district
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MMP -I-10
MAY 5, 1995
1.5.3 Land designated as Open Space by
deed/dedication, condition and a
restriction, by open space easement (CGC
Section 51070 et seq.) or by map
restriction (explicitor previoussubdivision)
must comply with an established review
and decision making process prior to the
recision, termination, abandonment and/or
removal of an open space dedication
easement and/or restriction.
a. Vacant land which deed is burdened
by an open space dedication,
condition, covenant and/or restriction
shall be required to be subject to the
abandonment process substantially
similar to that which is set forth in
CGC Section 51090 et seq.
b. Vacant land which is burdened by an
open space easementpursuantto CGC
Section 51070 et seq. shall be
required to be subject to the
abandonment process set forth in
CGC 51090 et seq.
C. Vacant land which is burdened by an
explicit open space designation
delineated upon a map which was the
result of a previous subdivision
approval shall be required to be
subjected to at least one public
hearing before the City Council prior
to any action to remove said
restriction.
1.5.4 Vacant land and/or existing residential lots
burdened by map restrictions which
delineate limitations or prohibitions related
to building construction, allowable
residential units, or other such non open
space restrictions, shall be required to be
subject to a process establishedby the City
Council prior to removal of such
restrictions.
a. Vacant land burdened by non open
space restrictions shall be required to
be subjected to at least one public
hearing before the City Council
before any action can be taken to
remove any such restrictions.
b. Existing residential lots that are
burdened by non open space map
restrictions shall be required to be
subject to a process establishedby the
City Council prior to removal of any
such restrictions.
New Program
New Program
City Manager's
Office
Community
Development
Director
Ongoing
Complete
within 1 year
of General
Plan adoption
General Fund
General fund,
development
review fees
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY5, 1995 MMP -I-11
1.5.5 Obtain Open Space land through feasible I New Program
acquisition and management techniques
such as:
a. Acquisition of land for parks and
natural area conservation through a
process of entitlement review and
density transfer among land uses of
like designation and entitlements
review.
b. Investigation of a bond issue for
purchase of open space area not
already protected by open space
restrictions.
C. Establishment of lighting and
landscape districts for open space
improvements and maintenance.
d. Through the entitlement process
where the landownerldeveloperwould
agree to sell at less than market value
or dedicate property in exchange for
developmentrights.
Community
Development
Director;
development
review bodies
Ongoing
Development
review fees
1.5.6 To preserve significant environmental Existing City Council Ongoing General fund;
resources within proposed developments, Program Development
allow clustering or transferring of all or review fees;
part of the development potential of the dedication
entire site to a portion of the site, thus
preservingthe resourcesas open space, and
mandatingthe dedication of those resources
to the City or a conservancy.
Objective 1.6 Consistent with the Vision Statement, provide, flexibility in the planning of new development
as a means of encouraging superior land use by means such as open space and public
amenities.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAYS, 1995 MMP -I-12
1.6.1 A master plan shall be developedfor each
area of the City designated as Planned
Development (PD). The location of each
Planned Development area is shown on
Figure I-2. Descriptions of each area and
the contemplated land use designations are
defined as follows:
a. Planned Development Area 1
PD -1 is located within the
incorporated City south of the
Pomona Freeway west of Chino Hills
Parkway. This 800+ acre vacant
area is part of the larger Tres
Hermans Ranch property spanning
Grand Avenue, including property
within the City of Chino Hills.
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 may include a high school
and other education 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 complimentary
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 adjacent lands.
b. Planned Development Area 2
PD -2 is comprised of apprxoimately
400 vacant acres located in two non-
contiguous areas. Sub -Area A
consists of approximately 325 acres
located east of Diamond Bar
Boulevard, north of Grand Avenue,
south of Gold Rush Drive, at the
terminus of Higherest Drive. Sub -
Area B consists of approximately 75
acres located west of Pantera Park.
Appropriate land uses for this 400+
acre non-contiguous area include a
maximum of 130 single family
detached residential dwelling units
concentrated along the anticipated
extension of Highcrest Drive, a
minimum of 75 percent of the total
400 acre area set aside as dedicated
open space. A two acre area
located at the southwest comer of
Diamond Bar Boulevard and Gold
Existing
Program
Planning
Department;
development
review bodies
Ongoing
General fund;
development
review fees
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -I-13
1.6.2 Require that Planned Developmentprojects
provide a greater level of community
amenities and cohesiveness, achieve
superior land use, and create a more
desirable I iving environment than could be
achieved through conventional subdivision
design and requirements.
1.6.3 Designated the following larger properties
as future Specific Plan (SP) areas. This
designation is an overlay to the base land
use category providing for mixed use
projects in the future subjectto approval of
a Specific Plan consistentwith Government
Code Section 65450. The issues to be
addressed and the type and maximum
intensity of development within the future
Specific Plan area is defined below.
a. Specific Plan Area I
SP -1 incorporates the Sphere of Influence
area. This 3600 acre multiple ownership
area contains unique biological and open
space resources. The formulation of a
future Specific Plan should incorporate
provisions to protect existing resources
while minimizing future adverse impacts to
both the human and natural environmentof
the City, as well as the region (see Strategy
1. 1.4 of the Circulation Element).
Facilities appropriatefor this site shouldbe
designed based upon a vision for the
future, and not merely extend the patterns
of the past. Such facilities may 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 compatiblewith the
adjacent lands.
New Program Community Ongoing
Development
Director;
development
review bodies
New Program
Community
Development
Director
As appropriate
Development
review fees
Development
review fees
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAYS, 1995 MMP -I-14
1.6.4 Encourage clustering within the most Existing
developable portions of project sites to Program
preserve open space and/or other natural
resources. Such development should be
located to coordinate with long-term plans
for active parks, passive (open space)
parks, and preserve natural open space
areas.
a. Encourage offers to dedicate
additional open space land to the City
or a conservancy.
1.6.5 Where feasible within new developments, New Program
encourage a mixture of complementary
development types (e.g. commercial,
residential, recreational, sales tax and
employment-generatinguses) which can be
provided in an integrated manner.
Community
Development
Director;
development
review bodies
City Council, upon
Planning
Commission
recommendation
Ongoing
through
completion of
identified
specific plans
Include within
Development
code to be
ready for
hearing within
six months of
General Plan
adoption
Development
review fees
General fund
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -I-15
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -1-16
�1e►
......: .
GOAL 2 "Consistent with the Vision Statement, manage land use with respect to the location, density and intensity, and
quality of development. Maintain consistency with the capabilities of the City and special districts to provide
essential services which achieve sustainable use of environmental and manmade resources."
Objective 2.1 Promote land use patterns and intensities which are consistent with the Resource
Management Element and Circulation Element.
2.1.1 Ensure that planning programs and
New Program
City Council;
Ongoing
General fund
individual developmentprojoctswithin and
City Manager;
through
affecting the City recognize, and are
Community
adoption of
sensitive to, eironmental resource
Development
the plan
limitations.
Director
a. Prior to approving new development
or the intensification of existing
development within the City of
Diamond Bar, ensure that the
environmental consequences of the
proposed action have been recognized
and property adressed.
b. When reviewing plans and
development projects referred to the
City by adjacent jurisdictions, insist
that there be a recognition and
appropriate mitigation of the
environmental consequences of the
proposed action.
2.1.2 Ensure that new development utilizes
Existing
Community
Ongoing
Development
feasible contemporary technologies to
Program
Development
review fees
reduce energy and water consumption,
Director;
generation of solid and hazardous wastes,
development
and air and water pollutant emissions.
review bodies
2.1.3 Ensure that time-specific issues are
Existing
All affected
Ongoing
General fund;
evaluated as part of the review of new
Program
departments
development
developmentand intensification of existing
review fees
development. For example, when deemed
appropriate by the City, require prior to
approval that biological assessments be
prepared through the seasonal cycle of
plants and mitigation of wildlife for a
period of not less than one year.
2.2 Maintain an organized pattern of land use which minimizes conflicts between adjacent land uses.
2.2.1 Require that new developments be
compatible with surrounding land uses.
2.2.2 Prohibit the development of adjacent land
uses with significantly different intensities,
or that have operating characteristicswhich
could create nuisances along a common
boundary, unless an effective buffer can be
created.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -1-16
2.2.3 Where land uses of significant different
intensity or use are planned adjacent to
each other, ensure that individual site
designs and operationsare managed in such
a manner as to avoid the creation of
nuisancesand hazards.
2.2.4 Requirethat new developmentsbe designed
so as to respect the views of existing or
proposed community amenities, such as a
park, open space, or natural features. As
part of the Development Code, adopt clear
standards to identify the extent to which
views can, and will, be protected from
impacts by new development and
intensification of existing development.
2.3 Ensure that future development occurs only when consistent with the availability and adequacy of public services and
facilities.
2.3.1 Through the environmental and
development review processes, ensure that
adequate services, facilities, and
infrastructure are available to support each
development.
2.3.2 Require new development to pay its fair
share of the public facilities and off-site
improvementsneededto servethoproposed
use.
GOAL 3 "Consistent with the Pinion Statement, maintain recognition within Diamond Bar and the surrounding region as
being a community with a well planned and aethetically pleasing physical environment."
Objective 3.1 Create visa al points of interest as a means of highKghting community identity.
3.1.1 Develop and locate City entry monuments,
highlighting key community entry points
and open space areas to identify Diamond
Bar to local and commuter traffic.
3.1.2 Where feasible and appropriate, add areas
for landscaping, such as in medians or by
widening parkways withinthe primary
arterial roadway system, as a means of
traffic control, providing pedestrian
amenities, and as an aesthetic feature for
the community.
3.1.3 Pursue the establishment and expansion of
Iandscapemaintenancedistricts as a means
of ensuring the ongoing maintenance of
medians and community entry statements,
as well as maintenance of landscaping of
hillsides along major roadways.
3.1.4 consider a program to place public art at
prominent locations throughoutthe City of
Diamond Bar.
3.1.5 Encourage the provision and maintenance
of neighborhood identification signage.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MmGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY5, 1995 MMP -I-17
II Objective 3.2 Ensure that new development, and imensi, fication of existing development, yields a pleasant living, working, or
shopping environment, and attracts interest of residents, workers, shoppers, and visitors as the result of consistent
exenrlary design.
3.2.1 Within the urban residential portions of the
City, require the incorporation of open
space and recreational areas into the design
of new projects. Within topographically
rugged and rural areas, emphasize the
preservation of natural landforms and
vegetation.
3.2.2 Require in the Development Code that
setbacks from streets and adjacent
properties relate to the scale of the
structure as well as the size of the street
right-of-way. Require that building
setbacks along roadways be varied so as to
avoid a monotonous street scene.
3.2.3 Minimize the use of block walls unless
they are needed for a specific screening,
safety, or sound attenuation purpose.
Where feasible, provide instead a wide
open area with informal clusters of trees,
defined by split rail, wrought iron, or
similar open fencing. Where construction
of a solid wall which will be visible along
a public street is necessary, provide
landscapingsuch as trees, shrubs, or vines
to break the visual monotony, and soften
the appearance of the wall, and to reduce
glare, hest, or reflection. Where solid
walls currently exist along the primary
roadway system, and it is possible to
retrofit landscape screens, establish a
funding mechanism for the construction of
such screens.
3.2.4 Enhance pedestrian activity within
residential, commercial, office, and light
industrial areas.
a. Ensure that non-residential faciliteis
are oriented to the pedestrian, by the
incorporation of seating areas,
courtyards, landscaping and similar
measures.
b. Utilize "street furniture" (decorative
planters, bike racks, benches) to
create and enhance urban open
spaces.
c. Design commercial and office
projects so as to have a central place,
main focus, or feature.
d. Utilize varied building setbacks and
staggered elevations to create plaza -
like areas which attract pedestrians,
whenever possible.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -I-18
3.2.5 Require that automobile service facilities
and commercial loading area he oriented
away from the street frontage and from
residential edges wherever possible to
minimize sight and sound impacts.
3.2.6 Where the rear or sides of commercial,
office, or other non-residential buldings
will be visible within a residential
neighborhood, ensure that the visible
elevations will be treated in such a manner
as to provide pleasing appearance.
3.2.7 Ensure that commercial developments are
designed with a precise concept for
adequate signage, including provisions for
sign placement and number, as well as sign
scale in relationship to the building,
landscaping, and readability as an integral
part of the signage concept. Ensure that
signs are integrated into the overall site and
architectural design theme of commercial
developments.
3.2.8 In conjunctionwith area utility companies,
pursue a program of undergrounding
overheadutility lines.
3.2.9 Include within the Development Code
requirements for the size and quantity of
trees to be planted within new development
and intensificationof existing development.
3.2.10 New development shall comply with the
City's Hillside ManagementOrdinance.
3.2.11 In Rural Residential (RR) minimize right-
of-way width to the extent feasible.
Objective 3.3 Protect the visual quality and characterof remaining natural areas, and ensure that hillside developmentdoes not
create unsafe conditions.
3.3.1 Balance the retention of the natural
environment with its conversion to urban
forms.
3.3.2 Promote incorporation of hillside features
into project designs.
3.3.3 As part of the Development Code,
maintain hillside development regulations
that are sensitive to natural contours and
land forms.
3.3.4 Limit grading to the minimum necessary.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MmGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -I-19
3.3.5 Require that all manufactured slopes be
landscaped and that, where practical,
landform grading and planting techniques
be implemented in the construction of
manufactured slopes.
a. Foliage used in planting palates
should be drought tolerant, fire
resistant, and have colors similar to
those of native materials in the
surrounding area.
b. Within landform graded slopes, plants
should be grouped within Swale areas
to more closely reflect natural
conditions.
GOAL 4 "Consistent with the Vision Statement, encourage long-term and regional perspectives in local land use decisions,
but not at the expense of the Quality of Life for Diamond Bar residents."
Objective 4.1 Promote and cooperate in efforts to provide reasonableregional land use and transportation/circulatiorplowdng
programs.
4.1.1 Take a proactive role to coordinate
Dihmond Bas's land use plan with those of
surroundingeities and other agencies.
4.1.2 Consider the potential impacts of proposed
Diamond Bar developmentson neighboring
jurisdictions as part of the developmew
review process. Notify neighboring
jurisdictions when considering changes to
the City's existing land use pattern.
4.1.3 Monitor the progress of major regional
developments; cooperate with appropriate
City, County, State, and Regional
organizations to achieve maximum
interaction and cooperation; participate
fully in relevant regional development
patterns.
4.1.4 Eneouragecwordinationwith adjacentcities
and other agencies to lobby the State and
Federal government on regional issues
which affect the City of Diamond Bar.
4.1.5 Monitor and evaluate potential impacts
upon the City of Diamond Bar, of major
proposed adjacent, local, and regional
developments, in order to anticipate land
use, circulation, and economic impacts and
related developmental patterns of the City
of Diamond Bar.
4.1.6 Relate major regional impacts to planning
action which might be required to safeuard
the best interests and Quality of Life of the
City of Diamond Bar.
4.2.1 Seek annexation of those areas which have
primary access through Diamond Bar and
whose residents and businesses are most
logically served by the City.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -1'20
4.2.2 Consider annexation of additional areas
west of the City boundaries including
expansion of the adopted Sphere of
Influence, where the following findings can
be made:
a. Compatibility exists with the goals
and desires of the people of the City
of Diamond Bar;
b. The proposed annexation is consistent
with goals and objectives of the
General Plan;
C. Significant benefits will be derived by
the City and affected property
owners/residentsupon annexation;
d. There exists a signifcant social and
economic interdependence and
interaction between the City of
Diamond Bar and the area proposed
for annexation.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -I-21
Objective 2.1 Ensure that the existing supply of low and moderate cost housing within Diamond Bar
does not diminish. Conserve the existing stock of assisted housing:
Strategies:
30 Low Income ("Seasons" Apartments)
18 Very Low Income (Rent Subsidies)
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 non-residential 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 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 Continue to distribute information regarding the activities of the City to assist
in the resolution of housing discrimination cases through placement of fair
housing brochures at public places throughout the City and provide referrals to
the Long Beach Fair Housing Council.
2.2.2 Continue to contract with and 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.
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
May 5, 1995 U-29
• 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 non-
profit 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. Presently up to $15,000 deferred payment
with three percent (3 %) simple interest second mortgage loans to lower income
first-time homebuyers
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 presently carry three percent (3 %) 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 Industry Redevelopment Set -Aside Transfer. An estimated nine million
dollars ($9,000,000.) annually to be made available through the County for
affordable housing new construction, acquisition, rehabilitation, and
preservation. The City will pursue funding through the County as Notice of
- Funding Availability (NOFA) is issued
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
II -30
May 5, 1995
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
2.3.6 Following acquisition of Federal Community Development Block Grant funds
by 1994, 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.
2.3.7 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
• Supportive Housing: The Transitional Housing Program provides funds for
both building rehabilitation and five years of operating funds for transitional
housing programs (3 months to 2 years)
• Permanent Housing for the Handicapped Homeless
• The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Emergency Food and
Shelter Program can provide short-term rental subsidies to prevent eviction,
payment of mortgage to prevent foreclosure, and utility assistance to families
or individuals
2.3.8 As appropriate, encourage the development of child care facilities in
conjunction with new development.
GOAL 3 "Consistent with the Vision Statement, preserve and conserve the existing housing stock
and maintain property values and residents' Quality of Life."
Diamond Bar General plan Housing Element
May 5, 1995 II -31
Objective 3 Maintain and encourage the improvement of the quality and integrity of .existing
residential neighborhoods.
Strategies:
3.1.1 Adopt a housing/neighborhood preservation program, including incentive
programs to ensure ongoing maintenance.
3.1.2 Ensure that group housing preserves the quiet, suburban or rural character of
the existing residential neighborhood in which it is located.
3.1.3 Enact Development Code provisions to provide for the development of second
units on a single family parcel. Ensure the single family character of the
neighborhood is protected, and that road, water, and sewer systems are capable
of supporting such development.
3.1.4 Determine the feasibility of establishing a Craftsman and Tool Lending
Program, utilizing State funding if necessary.
3.1.5 Enforce City's Property Maintenance Ordinance to maintain the quality of
existing neighborhoods.
Objective 3.2 Eliminate substandard housing by establishing a program to investigate and encourage
the rehabilitation of substandard housing units within Diamond Bar. Achieve the
rehabilitation of S very low, S low, and 15 moderate income households through the
County's rehabilitation program.
Strategies:
3.2.1 Investigate the availability of funds, including City -in lieu- funds for
establishing a housing rehabilitation program. Offer priority for rehabilitation
assistance to disabled homeowners for unit modifications to improve
accessibility.
3.2.2 Establish a program of public information and technical assistance to encourage
the contimied maintenance of currently sound housing as neighborhoods age
within the City of Diamond Bar.
3.2.3 Utilize available housing rehabilitation/conservation funds to establish a fund
to assist low and moderate households with painting, minor repairs, and general
maintenance.
3.2.4 Work with the State Franchise Tax Board in order to enforce the provisions of
California Revenue and Taxation Code Sections 17299 and 24436.5 which
prohibit owners of substandard housing from claiming depreciation,
amortization, mortgage interest, and property tax deductions on State income
tax.
Diamond Bar General Plan Housing Element
May s, 1995 U-32
II. HOUSING
"ITIS THE OVERALL GOAL OF THE PLAN THAT 7HEREBEADEQUAIF HOUSING IN THE CITY, BOTH
IN QUALITY AND QUAN777y, TO PROVIDE APPROPRIATE SHELTER FOR ALL WITHOUT
DISCRIMINA770N. "
.:
St>�iltre
.�Y..
GOAL 1. "Consistent with the Vision Statement, the City should provide opportunities for
development of housing suitable to meet the diverse needs of residents, and to support
healthy economic development."
Objective 1.1 Development of an adequate supply of housing to meet Diamond Bar's housing growth
needs.
1.1.1 Where feasible, consider
New Program
Community
Ongoing
Development
commercial/office developments which
Development
review fees
propose a residential component as part
Director;
of an overall mixed use concept.
developmentreview
bodies
1.1.2 Ensure the City's developmentstandards
New Program
Community
Prepare annual
General fund;
do not unduly contrain the creation of
Development
review of fees
development
affordable housing.
Director;
and processes;
review fees
development review
ongoing
bodies; City Council,
upon Planning
Commission
recommendation
1.1.3 Prepare a public information packet
New Program
Community
Ongoing
Development
summarizing the City's zoning and
Development Director
review fees
developmentrequirementsfor residential
construction.
1.1.4 Establish a monitoring program which
New Program
Community
Establish
Development
identifies the type and cost of housing
Development Director
program
review fees
being produced within Diamond Bar, as
within 6
well as the availability of vacant land
months of
which can be used to accommodate a
General Plan
variety of housing types; produce
adoption;
required reports to accomplish the
ongoing
programs outlined in this plan for
thereafter
housing that is affordable to "very low,"
"low," and "moderate" income
households.
1.1.5 To ensure well planned residential
Existing
Community
Ongoing
Development
growth while meeting the City's housing
Program
Development
review fees
responsibilities, review proposed
Director;
residential projects, general plan
development review
amendments, and changes of zone for
bodies
their effects on the neighborhood, the
City, and regional housing needs.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995
X X- Strx
.....::.. .:.;
1.1.6 Provide timely review of development
New Program
Community
Ongoing
Development
requests, with fees sufficient only to
Development
review fees
cover the actual costs (direct and
Director;
overhead) incurred by the City. In
development review
order to do so, consider changes in case
bodies
processing such as:
• Computerize case records to allow
for automated case tracking.
• Schedulecaseprocessingtimetables
to provide reasonable expectations
in processing applications based
upon available resources.
• Maintain review of EIR's to the
minimum period required by law.
1.1.7 Encourage use of innovative site
Existing
Building Official;
Ongoing
Development
development and construction materials
program
Community
review fees
and techniques consistent with City
Development
ordinances and the UBC to reduce the
Director;
cost of site preparation and/or
development review
construction and to provide a mix of
bodies
dwelling unit types.
1.1.8 Comply with California Government
Existing
Developmentreview
Ongoing
Development
Code Section 65915 by providing a
Program
bodies
review fees
minimum 25 percent density bonus, or
equivalent financial incentive, to
residential developers who agree to
make a minimum of 20 percent of the
units within the project affordable to
householdswith an income of 80 percent
of the County median income, or make
10 percent of the units within the project
affordableto houscholdswith an income
of 50 percent of the County median
income, or make 50 percent of the units
available exclusively to senior citizens.
1.1.9 Investigatethe feasibility of establishing
New Program
Community
Determine
Development
a requirement that ten percent (10%) of
Development
feasibility
review fees; in
all new housingwithin proposed housing
Director;
within 1 year
lieu housing
developmentsbe affordableto very low,
developmentreview
of General
fund
low, or moderate income householdsor
'in
bodies
Plan adoption;
pay an lieu' fee to be used by the
if determined
City for the provision of housing
to be feasible
affordableto very low, low, or moderate
establish '
income households. If determined to be
feasible, implement the program.
requirements
and fund
within % days
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995
1.1.10 Where the City assists in the Existing
developmentof affordable housing, such Program
as through density bonsues or other
development incentives, provide priority
for occupancy by existing Diamond Bar
residents or employees in the
community.
City Council, upon
Incorporate
General fund;
Planning Commission
parking
development
recommendation;
requirements
review fees
Community
into
Development
Development
review fees; in
Director;
Code proposal
Development Director
development review
within 6
Mortgage Revenue Bond Program,
bodies
months of
fund
General Plan
adoption
1.1.11 Facilitate the provision of single and
Existing
Community
Ongoing
Development
multiple family dwelling units available
Program
Development
review fees
to very low, low, and moderate income
Director; Community
review fees; in
households through participation in the
Development Director
lieu housing
Mortgage Revenue Bond Program,
fund
issuanceof MortgageCredit Certificates,
and use of other viable economic
New Program
Community
Prepare
General fund
resources. Encourage private sector
Development Director
ordinance
participation in the provision of very
within 6
low, low, and moderate cost housing by
months of
offering such programs to developers
General Plan
who provide at least 20 percent of the
adoption
housing units within prices which are
New Program
Community
Ongoing
Development
affordable to very low, low, and
Development
review fees
moderate income households. Advertise
Director;
the availability of these programs
development review
through periodic placement of ads in the
bodies
City Newsletter and placement of
program brochuresat the public counter.
GOAL 2. "Consistent with the Vision Statement, 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 suppty of low and moderate cost housing within Diamond Bar does
not diminish. Conserve the existing stock of assisted housing:
30 Low Income ("Seasons" Apartments)
18 Very Low Income (Rent Subsidies) 11
2.1.1 Where proposeddevelopmentprojectsor
New Program
Community
Ongoing
General fund;
other discretionary actions of the City of
Development
Development
Diamond Bar would reduce the number
Director; City
review fees; in
of existing subsidized dwelling units,
Council
lieu housing
ensure that appropriate offsets are
fund
provided as part of the proposed action.
a. To avoid potential reduction in the
New Program
Community
Prepare
General fund
supply of rental housing, prepare a
Development Director
ordinance
condominium conversionordinance
within 6
which would limit the conversion
months of
of rental apartments to
General Plan
condominiumsor cooperatives.
adoption
b. Require that all successful
New Program
Community
Ongoing
Development
conversion applicants provide a
Development
review fees
relocation assistance program for
Director;
displaced tenants, encouraging
development review
relocation within the community.
bodies
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995
C. Based on the provisions of
GovemmentCodeSection 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 income households
remain affordable to those income
groups after sale to the first buyer.
Existing Community Ongoing
Program Development
Director;
developmentreview
bodies
New ProgramI Community I Ongoing
Development Director
New Program I Community
DevelopmentDirector
Objective 2.2 Prevent housing discrimination in Diamond Bar.
2.2.1 Continue to distribute information Existing
regarding the activities of the City to Program
assist in the resolution of housing
discrimination cases through placement
of fair housing brochures at public
places throughout the City and provide
referrals to the Long Beach Fair
Housing Council.
Complete
investigation
within 1 year
of General
Plan adoption;
implement
findings within
1 year
thereafter
City Manager's office I Ongoing
Development
review fees
General fund
General fund;
in lieu fees
General fund
2.2.2 Continue to contractwith and participate Existing Affected departments I Ongoing General fund
in the activities of the Long Beach Program
Council as they affect the City of
Diamond Bar.
I Objective 2.3 Cooperate with regional agencies to provide housing for the elderly, handicapped, homeless, I
and other special needs groups.
2.3.1 Promote housing accessibility for Existing
elderly, handicapped, and disabled Program
persons.
Community Ongoing Development
Development review fees; in
Director; lieu housing
developmentreview funds
bodies
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995
2.3.esharingservicesfor
specifically encourage development of PrBar.
agcazn
ng
rental housing forerly,
pped, and disabled.ically
age development of using
the use of density ,tax -
t bonds, and land owns,
ed with federal and using
ies.
2.3.3ct Inland Mediatioother New Program
service providers to senior
sharing services for d Bar.
2.3.4 Provide information regarding theI New Program
availability ofemergency shelter.
Community
Development
Director;
developmentreview
bodies
Community
DevelopmentDirector
City Manager's office
2.3.5 Pursue
u uers State, federal, and private New Program
programs designed to expand housing
opportunitiesfor all segmentsof society
including the elderly and the
handicapped. Determine the extent to
which such programs are consistentwith
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. A priority will be to
pursue entitlement status through HUD
and secure permanent CDBG funding.
2.3.6 Following acquisition of federal New Program
Community Development Block Grant
a
funds by 1993, designate g
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.
2.3.7 Work with the Los Angeles County New Program
Housing Authority and nearby cities to
establish continuous emergency shelter
program serving the eastern portion of
the County.
2.3.8 As appropriate, encourage the New Program
development of child care facilities in
Community
Development
Director; City
Council
Ongoing
Development
review fees; in
lieu housing
funds
Initiate within
General Fund
90 days of
General Plan
adoption
Ongoing
Development
review fees; in
lieu housing
funds
Ongoing
General fund;
Development
review fees; in
lieu housing
fees; agency
programs
Community
DevelopmentDirector
Community
Development
Director; City
Manager's office
Planning Department
Ongoing
Community
Development
Block Grant
Funds
Ongoing Development
review fees; in
lieu housing
funds
Ongoing General Fund
conjunction with new development. stuek and maintain property
GOAL 3. "Consistent with the Vision Statement, preserve and conaere the existing hO°�
values and residents' QaatitY of Life."
rovement of the quality and integrity of existing residential
objective 3.1 Maintain and encourage the imp
neighborhoods -
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MTCIGATION MONITORING YRU6KAm
MAY 5, 1995
ing
Establish In lieu housy
3.1.1 Adopt a housing/neighborhood Nea1°
Community fundgenc
ro am ;Ne-PrO
Development within
preservation program, including
Director; City 1 yew pr°grams
incentive programs to ensure ongoing
Council of General
Plan adoption
maintenance.
housing Preserves the New Progr am
prepare General fund;
Community ordinance Development
3.1.2 Ensure that group
a
quiet, suburban or rural character of the
Development review fees
Director, City provisions
existing residential neighborhood in
Council within 1 ye -
which it is located.
of Genera'
Plan adoption
Code provisions the New OgC8R1
Preps Development
Community review fees
requirements
3.1.3 Enact Development
developrnentof second units on a single
Development
Director; City within six
family parcel. Ensure the single family
Council months of
character of the neighborhood is
General Plan
protected, and that road, water, and
adoption
sewer systems are capable of supporting
such development.
Community Determine General fund;
3.1.4 Determine the feasibility of establishing New Pro gram
Ddevelopment
evelopmentDirector feasibility
fees
a Craftsman and Tool Lending Program,
within 1 year review
utilizing State funding if necessary.
of General
plan adoption
to investigate and encourage the
ieve the rehabilitation
Objective 3.2 Eliminate substandard housing by establishing a Program
within Diamond Ba te
of substandard housing
units me ty's
units through th
rehabilitation
low, 5 low, and 15 moderate income housing
of 5 very
rehabilitation program
General fund;
communityDetermine
development
3,2.1 Investigate the availability of funds, New program DevelopmentDirector feeaibility review fees
including City "in lieu" funds, for
within three
establishing a housing rehabilitation
months of
Offer priority for
General Plan
program,
rehabilitation assistance to disabled
adoption;
homeowners for unit modifications to
establish fund
improve accessibility
within three
months
thereafter
Establish General fund;
New Program City manager's office development
3.2.2 Establish a program Of public
technical assistance to
program
Program
within one review fees
information and
encouragethe continued maintcnaneeof
yearof
currently sound housing as
General Plan
neighborhoods age within the City of
adoption
Diamond Bar.
Initiate General fund;
Community develo ment
3.2.3 Utilize available housing New Program Development Director requests for F
fees; in
rehabilitation/conservation funds to
lo�tiannd
funds within 1 review
year of lieu housing
establish a fund to assist
moderate households with Painting,
General Plan fund
minor repairs, and general maintenance.
adoption
MONITORING PROGRAM
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION
MAY 5,1995
3.2.4 Work with the State Franchise Tax
Board in order to enforce the provisions
of California Revenue and Taxation
Code Sections 17299 and 24436.5 which
prohibit owners of substandard housing
from claiming depreciation,
amortization, mortgage interest, and
property tax deductionson State income
tax.
New Program I City Manager'sofFice
Initiate effort
within 1 year
of General
Plan adoption
General fund;
development
review fees; in
lieu housing
fund
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING YK(RyxM•
MAY 5, 1995
• Crime and Protection Services
• Emergency Services and Facilities
• Hazardous Materials
• Air Quality
• Noise
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS
The following summarizes information presented in the City of Diamond Bar Master Environmental
Assessment.
1. Geology and Seismicity
Diamond Bar is located in a dynamic geological region, which is underlain by several thousand feet of
sediments which were laid down over the last 25 million years. Bedrock materials are not well
consolidated and consist of various sandstones, shales, and siltstones of the Puente formation, which is
represented by three major components or members: La Vida; Soquel; and Yorba. Stream -carried
(alluvial) materials are present in natural canyons while man-made fill is found in previously developed
areas. Local soils are mainly derived from weathering of the bedrock units.
There are existing historical and potential unstable hillside area in Diamond Bar.
Diamond Bar is also located in a part of Southern California which is a highly seismically active region
and where there are a number of major active faults. A discussion and map of regional geological
hazards are contained in the Master Environmental Assessment. The San Andreas Fault Zone, located
26 miles northeast of the City, is considered to have the greatest potential to cause regional damage.
However, the Los Angeles County Engineer has estimated that four potentially active local faults
(Whittier, San Jose, Sierra Madre, and San Gabriel) have a higher potential for causing local damage.
Several major faults are located adjacent to the City. The Whittier Fault Zone passes just south of the
City's Sphere of Influence, while the Chino Fault passes within a mile of the City's eastern boundary.
In addition, there are three small inactive local faults within Diamond Bar: The Arnold Reservoir Fault,
near Grand Avenue in the northeast portion of the City; the Spadra Fault, located in the far northern
portion of the City; and the Diamond Bar Fault, located in the south-central portion of the City. A small
inactive fault, the Tonner Canyon Fault is located in the City's Sphere of Influence. Figure IV -1
identifies known faults and other local geologic hazards.
2. Flooding
Runoff in the City is accommodated by three major natural drainages: San Jose Creek to the west;
Diamond Bar Creek to the southwest, and Brea Canyon Crede to the southwest. The only area of the
City with flooding problems, as identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency Flood
Insurance program, is along the Reed Canyon Channel at Brea Canyon Road and Lycoming Street.
However, the lands within the City of Industry adjacent to Diamond Bar, generally located west of the
57 Freeway from Temple Avenue to Lemon Avenue, also have potential flooding problems. While most
of the backbone drainage system has already been installed by the County of Los Angeles, there are still
a few links and improvements that have not been constructed. The City presently lacks a master plan
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Health and Safety Element
May 5, 1995 IV -2
Source: Geologic -Seismic study for the Diamond Bar General Plan, Department of
the Los Angeles County Engineer, 1980; and Diamond Bar Community General Plan
EIR, Los Angeles County Department of Regional Planning, 1986.
�vva1 �.,vv,vy,v u„v
Seismic Hazards
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Health and Safety Element
May 5, 1995 IV -3
LIST OF FIGURES
FIGURE
PAGE
V-1 Regional Circulation ......................... V-2
V-2 Circulation Element Roadway System V4
V-3 Intersection Level of Service .. ................ V-11
V-4 Existing Designated Bicycle Routes ................. V-15
V-5 Hiking and Equestrian Traits ................... V-16
V-6 Designated Truck Routes ..................... V-18
LIST OF TABLES
TABLE
PAGE
V-1 Roadway Classification ... .................... V-6
V-2 Daily Roadway Capacity Standards ................ V-9
V-3 Level of Service (LOS) Interpretation ...... ...... V-10
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
A. Introduction ................................. V-1
B. Circulation System ............................. V-3
C. Circulation Issues ............................ V-19
D. Goals, Objectives and Strategies ................... V-22
No Scale
FLOOD ZONE A
Areas of 100 -year flood, base flood elevations
and flood hazard factors not determined.
FLOOD ZONE AO
Areas of 100 -year shallow flooding where depths
are between one and three feet-, average depths of inundation
are shown, but no flood hazard factors are determined. Figure IV -2
FLOOD ZONE D
MAreas of undetermined, but possible flood hazards. Areas of
Source: Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), I" Angeles County, Panel 980 of 12715, Potential Flooding
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), 1980.
Diamond Bar General - Plan Public Health and Safety Element
May 5, 1995 IV4
of drainage. The Sphere of Influence is drained by Tonner Canyon Creek. This area presently has no
major flood control improvements and flooding can occur along the entire length of this natural stream
channel. Figure IV -2 indicates areas where flooding poses potential problems.
3. Fire Protection Services
Diamond Bar faces a significant potential threat from wildland foes for the following reasons: It is
adjacent to large undisturbed natural areas to the east and south; it has many undeveloped hillsides and
canyons covered with native vegetation; many older homes have wood shingle or shake roofs; the state-
wide drought has killed, damaged or dried out much of the otherwise healthy natural, as well as
introduced, vegetation, and the area periodically experiences strong dry "Santa Ana" winds when other
fire conditions are high. Despite these conditions, the Insurance Service Organization (ISO) gives the
developed portions of the City a rating of 3, which is considered good for urbanized areas. The Sphere
of Influence area adjacent to Tonner Canyon does not presently have (or need) these same levels of
protection.
Fire protection services for the area are presently provided by the Los Angeles County Consolidated Fire
Protection District, which maintains three stations in or adjacent to the City. County stations 119, 120,
and 121 are fully equipped and staffed. Analysis of available service level data indicates that the City
will probably not need an additional fire station, although any significant development in the Sphere of
Influence area might require additional protection.
4. Crime and Protection Services
The level of major crime in Diamond Bar is presently half of that experienced in communities of
comparable size. The types of local crimes are typical of suburban communities in the Los Angeles
region, including vandalism, traffic accidents, and theft. Protection services are provided under contract
to the City by the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department out of the Walnut -San Dimas Regional
Station. The City is presently served by 29 deputies and 18 patrol vehicles. The County maintains an
average emergency response time of 4.5 minutes within the City. Diamond Bar will need additional
protective services as it grows, although it may not need additional facilities within the City limits. The
Firestone Boy Scout Ranch within the Sphere of Influence presently has private security.
5. Emergency Services and Facilities
The Diamond Bar area is served by a number of hospitals and related medical facilities within Los
Angeles, San Bernardino, and Orange counties. Although there is no major treatment facility within
Diamond Bar, there are seventeen hospitals or major treatment centers within a 15 mile radius. The Los
Angeles County Consolidated Fire Protection District maintains paramedic service at station 119 just west
of the City, as well as at stations 61 and 118 in nearby Walnut. The county also contracts with several
local companies for ambulance service, and can also provide airborne evacuation. The region could also
face major emergencies or disasters, such as earthquakes, hazardous material spills, train accidents, high
winds, etc. The City has recently developed a response plan for major emergencies. Minimum road
widths and clearances around structures as related to emergency access and fire prevention are specified
in City Code. Emergency evacuation routes are identified in the City's Multi -Hazard Functional Plan,
with the SR57 and SR60 Freeways identified as the major routes and major surface streets as additional
routes.
6. Hazardous Materials
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Health and Safety Element
-May 5, 1995 11V-5
Hazardous materials presently create a potential threat to the City. The primary threat facing the City
would come from a major traffic or train accident involving spillage of hazardous or toxic materials.
There are industrial or other businesses within the City or in the nearby City of Industry that treat,
handle, or store hazardous materials. As the area continues to grow, the likelihood of an accident or the
potential for illegal dumping increases. The Los Angeles County consolidated Fire Protection District
maintains "Hazmat" Response Teams to handle emergencies involving these materials, but the City must
deal with the local implications of hazardous wastes. As per State law, the City has developed a
"Household Hazardous Waste Element".
7. Air Quality
The entire south coast air basin, within which Diamond Bar is located, suffers from some of the worst
air quality in the nation. Pollutants are not only generated locally within the east San Gabriel Valley,
but are also transported downwind from the Los Angeles basin. The primary pollutants of concern are
ozone (oxidants) and nitrogen dioxide, which are mostly generated by vehicular exhaust. The number
of first stage smog alerts has decreased dramatically from the early part of the decade. However, local
ozone levels have still exceeded state standards on over 100 days during each of the past throe years.
Local topography, climate, wind, and air movement patterns tend to concentrate air pollutants along the
freeway corridors and especially in the Diamond Bar area. Several local intersections, including Grand
Avenue/Diamond Bar Boulevard and Grand Avenue/Golden Springs Drive, experience significantly
elevated levels of air pollutants during peak driving hours.
8. Noise
- The City of Diamond Bar is relatively quiet except for noise corridors created by traffic on major
roadways and freeways. Noise is typically measured in decibels on the A -weighted scale db(A) which
most closely resembles the range of human hearing. Community noise levels are often measured on the
Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) scale. Noise levels have been estimated along major
roadways within Diamond Bar based on traffic volumes and the physical configuration of streets. The
combined 57/60 Freeway corridor generates the most noise, producing a 65 CNEL contour onto adjacent
land uses approximately 1,379 feet wide. The 57 Freeway by itself, north of the 60 Freeway, has a
much smaller 65 CNEL corridor of only 759 feet. However, the 60 Freeway alone, both east and west
of the 57 Freeway, generates a 65 CNEL noise corridor 1,015 feet wide. These figures mean that daily
outdoor noise levels in areas adjacent or proximate to the local freeways reach or exceed acceptable
planning noise standards.
In addition to noise produced by the freeways there are several local roadways generating 65 CNEL
levels beyond the right-of-way. These include sections of Brea Canyon Road north of the 60 Freeway,
Golden Springs Drive east of Lemon Avenue and west of Prospectors Road, Diamond Bar Boulevard
north of Golden Springs Drive, Grand Avenue west of Golden Springs Drive, Pathfinder Road east of
the 57 Freeway, and Sunset Crossing Road west of the 57 Freeway.
Finally, the Union Pacific Railroad line along the westerly boundary of the City is a major contributor
of local noise as are infrequent urban sources such as dogs barking and aircraft overflights.
C. PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY ISSUES
1. Geology and Seismicity
Because of the high seismic and diverse geological conditions, there are moderate to high geological
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Health and Safety Element
1V-6
May 5, 1995
constraints for development in Diamond Bar, especially in hillside areas.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: The City needs policies to protect existing and future residents from
local geologic and seismic -related hazards.
2. Flooding
There are no major identified threats from flooding within the City. However, there is no schedule at
present for the remaining improvements needed to complete the local drainage and flood control network.
In addition, the existing planned improvements are based on County plans for the area, and may not
reflect current projects or timing on the development of open land.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: The City needs policies to minimize the threat to its citizens from
,flooding, and establish a schedule of improvements based on an
updated master plan of drainage. As part of these policies, spec
standards for protection from various size storms (10-, 25-, 50-, 100-,
and 500 -year) are needed.
3. Fire Protection Services
A major fire represents a significant potential threat to local residents. In addition to the loss of
structures and life, a major fire could destroy valuable biological resources within the City or its Sphere-
of
phereof Influence. As development continues in the interface between natural and developed areas, the threat
of fire also increases. The Los Angeles County Consolidated Fire Protection District currently provides
adequate service to the residents of Diamond Bar in terms of protection from the threat of fire.
However, the City may wish to pursue other administrative arrangements for financial or other reasons.
As the City grows, it may be necessary to provide additional equipment, personnel, or stations to
continue adequate service levels.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: The City needs policies emphasizing the importance office prevention,
protection, and public safety.
4. Crime and Protection Services
Although crime rates in the City are presently low, the threat of gang or other criminal activity creeping
into the community from neighboring urban areas could become a major issue. The City should take
appropriate action now to reduce and/or avoid the increase in local crime, such as urban design concepts
which help protect property and residents. The Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department presently
provides an adequate level of service to the community, as evidenced by the currently low crime rate.
As the City's population increases, there will be an increased need for protective services. Additional
services may also be needed as urban crime may continue to spread to suburban areas. To combat this,
local community and neighborhood involvement will be needed to help prevent or observe and report
various criminal activities. Any significant development in the Sphere of Influence would also require
additional protective services.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: Thu City needs policies to emphasize the importance of careful design
and conununity action to minimize criminal activity.
5. Emergency Services and Facilities
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Health and Safety Element
IV -7
May 5, 1995
At present, there appears to be an adequate number and variety of medical facilities and programs
available to City residents. However, as a new City, Diamond Bar must assess its own desires regarding
the convenience of medical services and determine if or how it will encourage certain medical uses into
the City. Paramedic and ambulance services likewise appear to be adequate, although additional services
may be needed as the community grows. Development in the Sphere of Influence may require additional
medical or other emergency facilities. The provision of daily emergency services must also be
coordinated with a local plan for responding to regional disasters.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: The City needs to decide if any additional medical facilities are needed,
and if so, where and how should they be located to best serve local
residents. The City needs to implement the disaster preparedness plan
to respond to regional or local emergencies.
6. Hazardous Materials
Hazardous wastes will continue to be an important community concern. The potential for accidents
involving hazardous materials is of concern to local residents.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: The City should develop policies to clearly identify potential sources of
hazardous materials and how accidents or emergencies involving such
materials will be handled.
7. Air Quality
Air quality is still considered a major detractor to the quality of life in Diamond Bar, even though the
vast majority of it is generated elsewhere. While the City has little control over regional pollutants, it
can take a proactive position on this issue by stating its intent to minimize the generation of local air
pollution. It can also tare advantage of the location of the South Coast Air Quality Management District
(SCAQMD) office in Diamond Bar to offer itself as a "testing laboratory" for programs to reduce air
pollution, where such programs could be safely undertaken, thus establishing Diamond Bar as a model
City for innovation in Southern California.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: The City should work cooperatively with local agencies to develop
innovative policies for reducing regional air pollution, in addition to
LVIementfng the current programs of the South Coast Air Quality
Management Plan.
8. Noise
Noise is presently a problem for local residents along freeways and major roadways, generally only
during peak hours. However, noise problems will increase as traffic and population increase, especially
where development is built in areas that previously acted as buffers or barriers to local noise. As the
population of the City and region increases, there will also be an increase in infrequent urban noise-
sources.
oisesources. while noise may not be a significant problem compared to other cities, a quiet environment is
typically a major factor in rural living, and more than likely contributes to the quality of life perceived
in Diamond Bar.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: Emphasizing its importance on quality of life. the City needs clear
policies on how it will keep noise, primarily from mayor roadways,
from impacting cristing• as well as future residents.
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Health and Safety Element
May 5, 1995 IV -8
9. Urban Runoff Stormwater Discharge Permits
In recent years, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has recognized the potential for groundwater
damage to occur as the result of pollutants carried in runoff from urban areas. These pollutants include
oil, grease, and heavy metals that generally accumulate in roadways and parking areas, and are the result
of motor vehicle use. To resolve the problem, the EPA requires that municipal agencies acquire
discharge permits for urban areas similar to the permits issued for wastewater treatment plants. Los
Angeles County has received a discharge permit for urban runoff from the EPA. The City of Diamond
Bar is a "co -permittee".
ISSUE ANALYSIS: Development within the City of Diamond Bar will need to comply with
the provisions of the EPA urban stormwwter discharge permit.
D. PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND
STRATEGIES
"IT IS THE OVERALL GOAL OF THE PLAN TO PROVIDE A SAFE AND HEALTHY
ENVIRONMENT FOR THE RESIDENTS OF DIAMOND BAR. "
GOAL 1 "Consistent with the Vision Statement, create a secure public environment which
minimizes potential loss of life and property damage, as well as social, economic,
or environmental disruption resulting from natural and manmade disasters."
Objective 1.1 Minimize the potential for loss of life, physical injury, and property damage from seismic
groundshaking and other geologic hazards.
Strategies:
1.1.1 Require the new emergency facilities including but not limited to fine stations,
paramedic services, police stations, hospitals, ambulance services, and
emergency operations centers be designed to withstand and remain in operation
following the maximum credible earthquake event.
1. 1.2 As required by the Uniform Building Code, require site-specific geotechnical
investigation be performed to determine appropriate design parameters for
construction of public and private facilities in order to minimize the effects of
any geologic and seismic hazard on such development.
1.1.3 Adopt a grading manual to supplement the City of Diamond Bar Grading Code
with detailed information regarding rules, interpretations, standard
specifications, procedures, requirements, forms, and other information
applicable to control excavation, grading, and earthwork construction and
provide guidelines for preparation of geotechnical reports in the City.
Objective 1.2 Minimize the potential for loss of life, physical injury, property damage, public health
hazards, and nuisances from the effects of a I00 -year storm and associated flooding.
Strategies:
1.2.1 Where applicable, as a prerequisite to new development or the intensification
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Health and Safety Element
May 5, 1995 IV -9
— of existing development, ensure that a drainage study has been completed by a
qualified engineer, certifying that the proposed development will be adequately
protected, and that implementation of the development proposal will not create
new downstream flood hazards.
1.2.2 In coordination with the Los Angeles County Public Works Department,
develop and maintain a master plan of drainage, including an inventory of
existing facilities, and present development plans, to adequately assess existing
and future flood control needs and improvements within Diamond Bar.
1.2.3 Prepare a capital improvement program for flood control improvements needed
to complete a master plan of drainage. This schedule will be coordinated with
improvement plans by the County and address funding and timing of prioritized
improvements.
Objective 1.3 Require that properties in and adjacent to wildland areas are reasonably protected from
wildland fire hazards without degrading the viability of natural ecosystems, providing
a balance between removal of ,flammable vegetation, introduction of fire resistant
vegetation, and preservation of natural vegetation.
Strategies:
1.3.1 Where development is proposed within areas potentially subject to wildland fire
hazards, ensure that the Consolidated Fire District has the opportunities to
review the proposal in terms of its vulnerability to fire hazard and its potential
as a source of fire. Ensure that Fine Department recommendations regarding
mitigation of fire hazard risks are addressed.
1.3.2 Require new development in areas subject to wildland fire to be adequately
protected in a manner which minimizes the destruction of natural vegetation.
Prioritize this balance as follows:
protection of existing developed areas and areas currently approved for
development
Preservation of significant biological resources to the extent feasible
Objective 1.4 Require an adequate distribution of fire stations, equipment, and manpower, and
maintain a maximum five minute response time to all urban areas.
Strategies:
1.4.1 Work with the Los Angeles County Consolidated Fire District to establish a
funding mechanism which would ensure that cost of providing new facilities and
equipment, including paramedic services, to support new development is
assessed against the developments creating that need.
1.4.2 Where appropriate, support increased protection levels from that provided by
the minimum fire standards included in the Uniform Building and Fine Codes
(UBC and UFC).
Objective 1; 5 Minimize the risk and. fear of crime through physical planning strategies. Create a high
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Health and Safety Element
IV -10
May 5, 1995
Strategies:
level of public imureness and support for crime prevention.
1.5.1 Refer proposals for new development, where appropriate, and for the
intensification of existing development to the Sheriffs Department for review.
1.5.2 Promote the establishment of neighborhood watch and business watch programs
to encourage community participation in the patrol of neighborhood and
business areas, and to facilitate increased awareness of potential criminal
activities.
Objective 1.6 promote the provision of adequate medical and emergency services to Diamond Bar
residents.
Strategies:
1.6.1 Coordinate with appropriate agencies for the provision of evacuation and
ambulance services within acceptable service levels and response times.
1.6.2 Investigate the need and feasibility of locating a major medical facility within
the City of Diamond Bar.
Objective 1.7 Implement effective emergency preparedness and response programs.
Strategies:
1.7.1 Coordinate the City's disaster preparedness plans with the State Office of
Emergency Management, County, schools, and other neighboring jurisdictions,
and participate in the development of a regional system to respond to daily
emergencies and major catastrophies.
1.7.2 The City's disaster plan shall integrate community resources into municipal
emergency management, including a list of local resources such as personnel,
equipment, material, specialized medical and other training, and auxiliary
communications.
1.7.3 provide areawide mutual aid agreements and communication links with adjacent
governmental authorities and other participating jurisdictions.
1.7.4 Disseminate public information regarding actions which residents and businesses
should take to minimize damage in a natural disaster, as well as actions which
would be taken to facilitate recovery from a natural disaster.
Objective 1.8 Protect life and property from the potential detrimental effects (short and long term) of
the transportation, storage, treatment, and disposal of hazardous materials and wastes
in the City.
Strategies:
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Health and Safety Element
IV -11
May 5, 1995
1.8.1 Coordinate with the established Los Angeles County program for household
hazardous waste collection according to the provision of Section 41500 of the
Public Resources Code (see also the solid waste section of the Plan for
Resource Management for additional policies).
1.8.2 Coordinate emergency response personnel to respond to hazardous materials
incidents.
1.8.3 Require development to meet the requirements of the County's urban
stormwater discharge permit.
Objective 1.9 The (qty should seek to improve local and regional air quality by encouraging ride -
sharing, use of public transit, and other transportation demand management techniques.
Strategies:
1.9.1 Promote the provision of non-polluting transportation alternatives such as a
Citywide system of bikeways and pedestrian sidewalks.
1.9.2 Work with the South Coast Air Quality Management District to establish a
program of District review and comment on major proposed development
projects within the City.
1.9.3 Implement the provisions of the South Coast Air Quality Management Plan;
review projects for consistency with the South Coast Air Quality Management
Plan.
1.9.4 Include trip reduction requirements consistent with SCAQMD Regulation XV
and the requirements of the Los Angeles County Congestion Management Plan
m the development code with the goal of reducing home -to -work trips by
facilitating and participating in the following programs:
Incorporate design measures into new development and, where feasible,
into existing developments proposed for intensification, including
preferential parking areas for car and van pools, employee drop off
areas, secure bicycle parking areas, bus turnout areas, etc.
Disseminate information to Diamond Bar residents regarding the
advantages of, and procedures involved in, ride sharing and public
transit
1.9.5 Ensure that site designs facilitate rather than discourage pedestrian movement
between nearby uses.
1.9.6 Require grading plans to include appropriate and feasible measures to minimize
fugitive dust.
1.9.7 The City will cooperate with the South Coast Air Quality Management District
to be a "test facility" or a laboratory for testing new air pollution control
programs where such programs can be safely conducted at no expense to the
City or its residents.
Diamond Bar Plan Public Health and Safety Element
May -5, 1995 IV -12
1.9.8 The City will offer to local governmental agencies, education institutions, and
businesses the opportunity to test new technologies and/or programs designed
to reduce air pollution, either directly or indirectly.
Objective 1.10 Consider noise issues inland 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 65dB 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 reduction
measures are applied to meet adopted interior and exterior noise standards.
1.10.3 New construction, including additions and remodels exceeding 25 % of original
floor area, shall not be permitted to cause the exterior CNEL level of
surrounding residential neighborhoods to exceed those limits stated in Table IV -
1, or to significantly, adversely affect the existing CNEL of those
neighborhoods.
1.10.4 Natural noise barriers, such as hillsides, shall not be modified or removed
without evaluating noise impacts to surrounding residential neighborhoods.
1.10.5 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
demonstrated empirical mitigation measures to ensure that adopted noise
standards within sensitive land use areas are not exceeded as the result of the
proposed project. Mitigation measures shall be verified by field measurements
after constriction. Prior to occupancy, if the required level of mitigation is not
achieved, further corrective action will be required.
1.10.6 As part of the Development Code, adopt noise -related development standards.
1.10.7 Where possible, encourage reduction of existing noise problems within existing
development where adopted noise standards are being reached or exceeded.
The City shall demand that the State of California install noise attenuation
facilities in all noise sensitive areas impacted by County, State or Federal
highways.
1.10.8 As part of future General Plan review, or every five years, the noise contour
map shall be updated.
1.10.9 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.
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Health and Safety Element
May 5, 1":5 IV -13
1.10.10 Locate land uses to buffer residential uses from noise and activity caused by
non-residential uses or streets or highways and site buildings to serve as a noise
buffer. Refer to the Land Use section to insure a smooth transition between
residential and non-residential uses.
1.10.11 Ensure that land uses are located so as to meet the following standards: (see
Table IV -1 Noise Standards). If new construction does proceed, a detailed
analysis of noise reduction requirements must be made and needed noise
insulation features included in design.
1.10.12 Where new development exceeds the standards outlined within Table IV -1, a
detailed analysis of noise reduction requirements must be made and needed
noise insulation features included in design.
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Health and Safety Element
May 5, 1995 IV -14
Table IV -1
Noise Standards
DNormally
Acceptable
Specified land use is
satisfactory, based on
the assumption that any
buildings are of normal
conventional construc-
tion, without any special
noise insulation require-
ments. Outdoor areas
are suitable for normal
outdoor activities for
this land use.
Nature of the noise
environment where the
CNEL or Ldn level Is:
Below 55 dB
Relatively quiet suburban or
urban areas, no arterial
streets within 1 block, no
freeways within 1/4 mile.
55-65 dB
Most somewhat noisy
urban areas, near but not
directly adjacent to high
volumes of traffic.
65-75 dB
Very noisy urban areas near
arterials, freeways or
airports.
75+ dB
Extremely noisy urban
areas adjacent to freeways
or under airport traffic
patterns. Hearing damage
with constant exposure
outdoors.
ConditionallyNormally Clearly
Acceptable M Unacceptable = Unacceptable
New construction or
development should be
undertaken only after a
detailed analysis of
noise reduction require-
ments is made and
needed noise insulation
features included in
design. Conventional
construction, but with
closed windows and
fresh air supply sys-
tems or air condition-
ing, will normally suffice.
New construction or
development should
generally be discour-
aged. If new construc-
tion or development
does proceed, a de-,
tailed analysis of noise
reduction requirements
must be made and
needed noise insulation
features included in
design.
New construction or
development should
generally not be
undertaken.
The Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) and Day -Night Noise Level (Ldn) are measures of the 24-hour
noise environment. They represent the constant A -weighted noise level that vrould be measured if all the sound
energy received over the day were averaged. In order to account for the greater sensitivity of people to noise at
night, the CNEL weighting includes a 5 -decibel penalty on noise between 7:C0 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. and a
10-decitel penalty on noise between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. of the next day. The Ldn includes only the
10-dece bei weighting for late-night noise events. For practical purposes, the tovo measures are equivalent for
typical urban noise environments.
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Health and Safety Element
May 5, 1995 1V-15
Maximum Exterior Community
F
Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL)
E o
or Day -Night Level (Ldn), dBX
m u
Land Use Category
55 60 65 70 75 80 85
cZi
Rural. Single -Family, Multiple-
40
Family Residential
School Classrooms
40
School Playgrounds
Libraries
I
40
Hospitals, Convalescent Facilities
I
45
Living Areas
Hospitals. Convalescent Facilities
35
Sleeping Areas
Recreation: Quiet, Passive Areas
40
Recreation: Noisy, Active Areas
Commercial and industrial
I
Office Areas
l
45
DNormally
Acceptable
Specified land use is
satisfactory, based on
the assumption that any
buildings are of normal
conventional construc-
tion, without any special
noise insulation require-
ments. Outdoor areas
are suitable for normal
outdoor activities for
this land use.
Nature of the noise
environment where the
CNEL or Ldn level Is:
Below 55 dB
Relatively quiet suburban or
urban areas, no arterial
streets within 1 block, no
freeways within 1/4 mile.
55-65 dB
Most somewhat noisy
urban areas, near but not
directly adjacent to high
volumes of traffic.
65-75 dB
Very noisy urban areas near
arterials, freeways or
airports.
75+ dB
Extremely noisy urban
areas adjacent to freeways
or under airport traffic
patterns. Hearing damage
with constant exposure
outdoors.
ConditionallyNormally Clearly
Acceptable M Unacceptable = Unacceptable
New construction or
development should be
undertaken only after a
detailed analysis of
noise reduction require-
ments is made and
needed noise insulation
features included in
design. Conventional
construction, but with
closed windows and
fresh air supply sys-
tems or air condition-
ing, will normally suffice.
New construction or
development should
generally be discour-
aged. If new construc-
tion or development
does proceed, a de-,
tailed analysis of noise
reduction requirements
must be made and
needed noise insulation
features included in
design.
New construction or
development should
generally not be
undertaken.
The Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) and Day -Night Noise Level (Ldn) are measures of the 24-hour
noise environment. They represent the constant A -weighted noise level that vrould be measured if all the sound
energy received over the day were averaged. In order to account for the greater sensitivity of people to noise at
night, the CNEL weighting includes a 5 -decibel penalty on noise between 7:C0 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. and a
10-decitel penalty on noise between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. of the next day. The Ldn includes only the
10-dece bei weighting for late-night noise events. For practical purposes, the tovo measures are equivalent for
typical urban noise environments.
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Health and Safety Element
May 5, 1995 1V-15
t U
8
r
W W /
U U
g /
I
/
I
/
I
s
0 3000 6000 t
nm -
Scale in Feet NORTH
•'�• DIAMOND BAR CITY LIMITS
NOISE CONTOUR
FREEWAY (60)
f
Estimated noise levels
based on existing traffic
volumes (1990). Does
not consider shielding
by terrain, noise barriers
or existing structures.
GENERAL PLAN
Figure IV -3
Existing Noise Contours
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Health and Safety Element
May 5"1995 IV -16
. ig)
1�
60 CNCNEL
♦
U '
♦
W ♦
Z ,
U ♦
h ;�o
U24„ mo /
� ^--�
0 3000 6000
i—.� t
Scale in Feet NORTH
•'�• DIAMOND BAR CITY LIMITS
�j NOISE CONTOUR
POM
FREEWAY (60)
Z CNEL j
60 CNa 11
1
Estimated noise levels
based on projected future
traffic volumes. Does not
consider shielding by
terrain, noise barriers or
existing structures.
GENERAL PLAN
Figure IV -4
Protected Future Noise Contours
x-17
May 5, 1995
CIRCULATION
ELEMENT
GENERAL PLAN
V. CIRCULATION ELEMENT
A. INTRODUCTION
The purpose of the Circulation Element is to define the transportation needs of the City and present a
comprehensive transportation plan to accommodate those needs. The focus of this plan element is the
identification and evaluation of local circulation needs of the City of Diamond Bar, balancing those needs
with regional demands and mandates. It has been developed to guide the orderly improvement of the
circulation system within the City in a manner which will protect the Quality of life which is Diamond
Bar and in direct response to the City's Land Use Element.
The overall intent of the Circulation Element is to provide safe and efficient movement between homes
and jobs, stores, schools or parks within the City. Under State planning law, each city must develop and
adopt a comprehensive long-term general plan for the physical development of that city. The following
is a mandatory requirement relating to city transportation planning:
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.
This is the first Circulation Element .prepared for the City of Diamond Bar. Although it is a new city,
it is not a newly developing city, but rather one that is largely built out. Many strategic decisions related
to transportation facilities (e.g., locations of roadways) were made at the County level prior to City
incorporation. This Circulation Element provides the first opportunity to evaluate how best to utilize
these facilities, from the perspective of the City of Diamond Bar, its residents, businesses, and other
users of City services.
Five basic steps were involved in developing the Circulation Element. The first step consisted of
documenting existing conditions and assembling a factual data base. The second step involved the
development and validation of a transportation model used to forecast future travel demand and travel
patterns within the City and the surrounding area. Step three entailed identification of problems,
opportunities and issues. The fourth step was the evaluation of alternative improvement scenarios. The
fifth and final step comprised the definition and refinement of the Circulation Element.
The resulting document is organized into the following sections with each of the above components of
the circulation system being discussed, where appropriate, therein.
Circulation System
Major Circulation Issues
Goals, Objectives and Strategies
Technical Appendices to the Master Environmental Assessment document support this section and contain
additional details and analysis of existing and future conditions, travel forecast model documentation, and
_. the Congestion Management Plan.
The Circulation Element also has direct relationship with the Housing, Resource Management, Public
Management, Public Health and Safety and Public Services and Facilities Elements.
V-1
May 5, 1995
0 1 2 4
Q— t
Scale in Miles NORTH
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
SPHERE OF INFLUENCE
GENERAL PLAN
Figure V-1
Regional Circulation
Diamond Bar General Plan Circulation Element
May 5, 1995 V'2
B. CIRCULATION SYSTEM
The components of the circulation system in the City of Diamond Bar include the following:
• Streets and Highways
• Transit and Paratransit Services
• Railroads
• Bicycle, Hiking and Equestrian Facilities
• Aviation
• Goods Movement
This section describes each of the components, discusses operating conditions and evaluates the adequacy
of the component.
1. Streets and Highways
a. Functional Classification, definitions and terms
The two major considerations in classifying the City's street network functionally are access to adjacent
properties and movement of persons and goods into and through the City. City streets are classified by
the relative importance of these two functions assigned to them. The classification of streets is essentially
a determination of the degree to which access functions are to be emphasized at the cost of the efficiency
of movement or discouraged to improve the movement function. The design and operation of each street,
therefore, depends upon the importance placed on each of these functions. For example, streets designed
to carry large volumes of vehicles into and through the City have more lanes, higher speed limits, and
fewer driveways, while residential streets have fewer lanes, lower speed limits, and more driveways to
provide access to fronting properties.
The functional classification system allows the residents and elected officials to identify preferred
characteristics of each stred. If observed characteristics of any street change from the functional
classification, then actions can be taken to return the street to its originally intended use or to change the
designation classification. For example, if traffic volumes and speeds on a residential street exceed
expected levels, then measures can be implemented which are designed to lower traffic volumes and
reduce speeds.
Under the Circulation Element of the County of Los Angeles, roadways within Diamond Bar were
categorized into four functional classification types:
• Freeways
• Arterial Streets (Major and Secondary)
• Collector Streets (Business and Residential)
• Local Residential Streets
Diamond Bar General Plan Circulation Element
May 5, 1995 V-3
p 2000
Scale m Feet NORTH
)147446
W440%
DIAMOND BAR CITY LIMITS
3 DIAMOND BAR SPHERE OF INFLUENCE
1
---I It
-
FREEWAY
MAJOR ARTERIAL
SECONDARY ARTERIAL
Figure V-2
Circulation Element Roadway System
Diamond Bar General Plan Circulation Element
V-4
May s, 1995
The City has adopted these functional classifications for its roadway network. Figure V-1 depicts the
regional roadway system as it presently exists in the City.
Freeways generally provide interregional access. Their Primary function is to move vehicles through
or around the City, thus, there is not access to adjacent land, and limited access to arterial streets -
Freeways contain anywhere from 4 to 12 lanes with recommended design volumes from 80,000 to
210,000 vehicles per day.
Arterial streets carry the majority of traffic entering or traveling through the City. A "major" arterial
has either four or six lanes for through traffic and may contain additional lanes to accommodate turning
movements, parking and bicycle traffic, all within a right-of-way of 100-120 feet. A "secondary" arterial
serves the same function as a major arterial, but has four lanes for through traffic and may contain
additional lanes to accommodate turning movements, parking and bicycle traffic, all within a right-of-way
of 60-100 feet. The desired maximum roadway capacity on arterial averages from 30,000 to 45,000
vehicles per day depending on number of lanes, type and width of directional separation, presence of on -
street parking, configuration and frequency of access to adjacent land uses, and intersection
configurations.
Arterials serve two primary functions: To move vehicles into and through the City, and to serve adjacent
commercial land uses. Driveways and other curb cuts along arterial are generally designed to minimize
disruption to traffic flow.
Collector Streets are intended to carry traffic between the arterial street network and local streets or
directly from the access drives of higher intensity land uses.
Collector Streets serve business or residential land and are generally two or four lane roadways. The
desired roadway capacity on a collector street can average up to 20,000 vehicles per day while providing
Level of Service (LOS) C.
Local residential streets are designed to serve adjacent residential land uses only. They allow access
to residential driveways and often provide parking for the neighborhood. They are not intended to serve
through traffic traveling from one street to another, but solely local traffic. The desired roadway
capacity on a residential street should not exceed about 2,500 vehicles per day and 200-300 vehicles per
hour. The maximum residential traffic volume which is acceptable to persons living along a street may
vary from one street to another depending upon roadway width, type of dwelling units (i.e., high density
apartments versus single-family homes), presence of schools and other factors. The maximum volume
of 2,500 is, therefore, to be used as a guide only, and sensitivity to the neighborhood and its impact
needs to be carefully considered.
Local residential streets include those streets predominantly residential in terms of adjacent property use,
and are intended to retain a residential character. They are typically not designated in the General Plan
Circulation Element.
Table V-1 identifies roadway classifications for key roadways in the City along with right-of-way
guidelines. Typical street sections are maintained as part of the City's design guidelines. Current typical
street sections are included in the technical appendices.
b. Level of Service Standards
Level of service standards define the desirable traffic volumes on City streets in relation to the capacity
of those streets. The City has utilized level of service standards in the traffic analysis work for the
General Plan, and these are summarized in the EI R. The City should continue to use such standards,
Diamond 13ar General Plan Circulation Element
V-5
May 5, 1995
mai.nALwng anc. upcaring xin w.ien necessary to x consistent wits current prevaxing s%ancares iia :ie
Table V-1
City of Diamond Bar Roadway Classification
Brea Canyon Rd. (n/ol
Golden Springs Dr.)
Major
100
100
Chino Hills Pkwy.
Major
100
100
Diamond Bar Blvd.
Major
100
100
Golden Springs Dr.
Major
100
100
(w/of Brea Canyon Rd.)
Grand Ave.
Major
100
100
Pathfinder Rd. (e/of Brea Canyon Rd. -west
Major
100
100
leg)
Pathfinder Rd. (w/of Brea Canyon Rd. -west
Major
so
s0
leg)
Brea Canyon Cut -Off Rd.
Secondary
64-80
64-80
Brea Canyon Rd. (s/of
Secondary
so
80
Golden Springs Dr.
Chino Avenue
Secondary
80
80
Golden Springs Dr.
Secondary
80
so
(e/of Brea Canyon Rd.)
_
Lemon Ave.
Secondary
s0
80
(n/of Golden Springs Dr.)
Lemon Ave.
Collector
60
64
(s/of Golden Springs Dr.)
Sunset Crossing Rd.
Collector
60
s0
(c/of SR57)
Beaverhead Dr.
Residential
64
80
Lycoming St.
Residential
64
so
Sunset Crossing Rd.
Residential
80
(w/of SR57)
Washin¢tonSt.
Residential
so
so
Diamond Bar General Plan Circulation Element
May 5, 1995 V-6
region and requirement such as the statewide Congestion Management Program. Table V-2 presents
the average daily volumes of various roadway configurations for different levels of service.
C. Roadway Systems
The efficiency of a roadway's operation is generally evaluated in the industry by volume -to -capacity
ratios. This ratio compares the Average Daily Traffic volume to the roadway's capacity- Levels of
Service (LOS) are identified based on the calculated ratio. Table V-3 provides a description of the
various levels of service to be used as the City's guidelines for analyzing the efficiency of street
operation.
Specific information regarding:
• Current levels of service
• Estimated existing and future average daily volumes by street segment
• AMIPM peak hour traffic levels of service by street segment
• Map of signalized intersections
• A description of the methodology and data used to establish baseline information and
current conditions
is contained in the Master Environmental Assessment and technical attachments.
A major concern of the City of Diamond Bar is the operating efficiency of its streets. Based upon an
analysis performed in 1991, traffic projections for the future (year 2010) indicate that up to 26 local
street segments may experience a level of service of E or F. This undesirable condition is the result
of the intrusion of regional traffic through Diamond Bar.
The City proposes to proactively pursue activities which will enhance the use of its infrastructure for
Diamond Bar residents. In addition, the City will work with neighboring jurisdictions to mitigate
their effects on the local street system due to the intrusion of regional traffic.
d. Transportation Corridors
A key issue related to traffic circulation is how current street infrastructures will be used and what
future improvements may be considered to mitigate traffic congestion.
To this end, the City of Diamond Bar intends to:
Monitor, coordinate, identify and advocate improvements or modifications to the
existing infrastructure „which will provide for the best use of our roadway system for
the movement of traffic
• Encourage and initiate ongoing efforts to work with neighboring cities to analyze,
assess and evaluate alternate by-pass corridors through such areas as Carbon, Soquel
and Tonner Canyon.
Crcculation Element
Diamond Bar General Plan V-7
May 5, 1995
The City also believes that if a by-pass corridor is identified for a roadway, it should be considered
using environmentally sensitive methods of evaluation.
Environmentally Sensitive Transportation Corridor
An environmentally sensitive transportation corridor is a transportation facility defined by
characteristics that cause the facility to have minimal impact to the environment and adjacent
ecosystem. It also meets the general prerequisites of being able to allow for movements of people
and goods in a safe and efficient manner. These characteristics should include but not be limits to the
following:
topographic — the corridor should blend with the natural terrain as much as possible to
reduce grading and movement of earth. Curves and contours of the natural terrain should be
reflected in design of the corridor. This goal must necessarily be balanced with Providing
safe corridor geometry for the modes of travel that will use it.
hydrology — positive drainage control will be developed as part of the corridor design to
provide for capture and transmission of runoff from the facility to an appropriate storm
drainage facility. This goal is to control foreign and potentially incompatible fluids and
particles from entering the adjacent ecosystem.
air quality -- street sweeping/cleaning shall be programmed into maintenance operations to
prevent buildup of dirt and dust on the corridor travel surface. This goal will serve to reduce
the amount of airborne particulates which could otherwise enter the adjacent ecosystem.
Alternative fuel vehicles and small vehicles should be encouraged rather than trucks to
further improve air quality along the corridor.
noise -- to the extent possible, modes of travel should be encouraged which have reduced
sound characteristics. In addition, natural bathers to sound created by the corridor should be
developed and implemented to reduce sound intrusion into the adjacent ecosystem. Consider
controlled speed limits to reduce noise impacts.
corridor -- a corridor should be defined as a route that encourages movement of people in a
manner that encourages multimodal uses such as buses, trolleys and shuttles;
discourages
single occupant vehicle trips. Movement of goods within this corridor should be evaluated in
terms of not detracting from the basic goal of maximizing movement of people in high
occupancy vehicles. Restriction on vehicle type and weight may be considered as part of the .
corridor. Creative traffic management techniques should be encouraged (such as reversible
lane operation) to take best advantage of roadway cross-section and minimize impacts to the
corridor area.
biological habitat -- replant and maintain natural Plant species to the extent possible along the
corridor where grading has altered the natural landscape. Similarly, provide frequent game
crossings to permit natural migratory paths to be maintained. Consider designation of the
corridor for daylight use only.
aesthetic -- views from the corridor should reinforce the feeling in the traveler that they are
in an environmentally sensitive area. Similarly, views of the corridor from adjacent
properties should reinforce the feeling that the corridor is a natural part of the landscape.
Corridor structures, as necessary, should be a natural part of the terrain.
Diamond Bar Genera! ruin V-8
May 5, 1995
By nature of the location of the by-pass corridor around the SEA 15, the corridor should be
for regional traffic and should not encourage local access for adjacent development except as
required by safety and emergency access requirements. Construction activity should be
limited to the right-of-way envelope. End points of the corridor would incorporate value
criteria.
An environmentally sensitive transportation corridor does not presume to specify the type of vehicles
that will utilize the facility. Rather, it should encourage and foster high occupancy, clean operation,
modes that are integrated with the corridor. Planning efforts should look to the future and anticipate
technologies that will emerge and contribute to development of a corridor that meets the growing
travel demands of the region and maintains precious natural resources.
Table V-2
Daily Roadway Capacity Standards*
6 Lanes Divided
Major Arterial
ss,yw
07,-niv
4 Lanes Divided
Secondary Arterial
22,500
26,300
30,000
33,800
37,500
4 Lanes (Undivided)
Collector
15,000
17,500
20,000
22,500
25,000
2 Lanes (Undivided)
Collector
7,500
8,800
10,000
11,300
12,500
2 banes (Undivided)
Local Residential
1,875
2,190
2,500
2,810
3,125
= source: Based on host revised Highway Capacity
Manual.
V-9
May 5, 1995
Table V-3
Level of Service (LOS) Interpretation
A Excellent operation. All approaches to the intersection ups• Y --
are easily made, and nearly all drivers
open, turning movements
find freedom of operation
B Very flood operation. Many drivers begin to feel somewhat
This represents stable flow.
.61-.70
restricted within platoons of vehicles.
occasionally be fully utilized
An approach to an intersection may
and traffic queues start to form.
Occasionally drivers may have to wait more than
.71-.80
C Good operation.
60 seconds, and back-ups may develop behind turning vehicles.
Most drivers feel somewhat restricted.
D Fair operation. Cars are sometimes raga fired to wait more than 60
no long-standing traffic
.81-.90
seconds during short peaks. there are
This level is typically associated with design practice for
queues.
Peak period.
E Poor operation. Some long-standing vehicular queues develop on.91-1.00
critical approaches to intersections. Delays may be up to several
minutes.
is jammed conditions. Backups from
F Forced Flow. Represents J
Over 1.00
locations downstream or on the crass street may restrict or Pre vent
movement of vehicles out of the intersection approach lanes:
therefore, volumes carried are not predictable. Potential for stop
and to type traffic flow.
V-10
May 5, 1995
2. Transit and Paratransit Services
Both fixed route transit and Paratransit service operate withischedules of Diamond
ong a Bar route'
stopping
Fixed route
transit services are typically bus lines which operate on regular
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.
a. Transit Services:
Public bus transit service is provided to the City of Diamond Bar by the Metropolitan
Transportation Authority and Foothill Transit and Orange County Transportation
Authority (OCTA).
Four fixed route transit lines serve the City of Diamond Bar. Foothill Transit Route 482 and
MTA Route 490 originate and terminate outside the city limits. Two express routes
originating at the Park and Ride lot at Diamond Bar Boulevard/60 Freeway interchange
operate during peak hours Monday through Friday. Foothill Transit Express Route 495 picks
up passengers on Golden Springs Drive/Colima Road to the Puente Hills Mall, then travels
the freeways to downtown Los Angeles. OCTA operates an express route from the same
Park and Ride via Cal State Fullerton, City Drive and the orange Court House in Santa Ana.
Additionally, three Foothill Transit lines provide intermodal connections at the Industry
Metrolink Station just north of the City's boundary on Brea Canyon Road. They are Route
482 (Colima Road), Route 276 (Gale Avenue) and Route 179 (Amar Road) -
b. Paratransit Services:
Demand responsive tramsit service is provided to the City of Diamond Bar by the
jointly sponsored Los Angeles County and City of Diamond Bar Paratransit Service.
This Dial -a -Ride service provides transportation to handicapped persons and senior
citizens within not only the City of Diamond Bar, but portions of the surrounding
area. Transportation is limited to Los Angeles County, and generally operates south
of Valley Boulevard and east of 7th Avenue, with service to medical facilities within
the cities of Pomona, Walnut, Industry and West Covina.
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 stop,
which
serves the Sunset Limited Route, is located at 156 W. Commercial St. and is approximately nine
miles northeast of Diamond Bar. The Fullerton Amtrak station, which serves the Southwest Chief
and San Diegan lines, with intermodal (bus) connections to other Amtrak lines, is located at the
corner of Santa Fe and Harbor Boulevard and is approximately 13 miles to the southwest.
Diamond Bar is served by a Metrolink commuter rail station recently implemented along the Union
Pacific Railroad at Brea Canyon Road, just north of State Route 60.
V-12
May 5, 1995
0 1000
Scale is Feet
DIAMOND BAR CITY LUMT'S GENERAL PLAIN
DIAMOND BAR SPHERE OF INFLUENCE
l_ _i SIGNALIZED INTERSECTION
CJ UNSIGNALIZED WMRSECTION
iwa: LEVEL OF SERVICE
May 5, 1995
Figure V-3
Intersection Level of Service
V-11
2. Transit and Paratransit Services
Fixed route
Both fixed route transit and Paratransit service operate within City of schedules alonaond a seB mute, stopping
bus lines which operate on regular g
transit services are typically (intracity) or regional (intercity).
at predefined bus stops. Fixed route service can be either local (' �') responsivedemand services
Paratransit services, more commonly referred to as Dial- e�iare Although eyth operate within a
which provide rides to passengers upon an individual request
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.
a, Transit Services:
Public bus transit service is provided to the City of Diamond Bar by the Metropolitan
Transportation Authority and Foothill Transit and orange County Transportation
Authority (OCTA).
Four fixed route transit lines serve the City of Diamond Bar. Foothill Transit Route 482 and
MTA Route 490 originate and
terminate outside the city limits. Two express interchange
originating at the Park and Ride lot at Diamond Bar Boulevard/60 Freeway Route 495 picks
operate during peak hours Monday through Friday. Foothill Transit Express
up passengers on Golden Springs Drive/Colima Road to the Puente Hills Mall, then travels
the freeways to downtown Los Angeles. OCTA operates an express route from the same
Park and Ride via Cal State Fullerton, City Drive and the orange Court House in Santa Ana.
Additionally, three Foothill Transit lines provide intermodal connections at
They arduse Route
s
Metrolink Station jut north of the City's boundary on Brea Cant
on 482 (Colima Road), Route 276 (Gale Avenue) and Route 179 (Amar Road).
b. Paratransit Services:
Demand responsive transit service is provided to the City of Diamond Bar by the
jointly sponsored Los Angeles County and City of Diamond Bar Parstransitd Service.
This Dial -a -Ride service provides transportation to handicapped persons
citizens within not only the City of Diamond Bar, but portions of the surroun south
area. Transportation is limited to Los Angeles County, and generally operates
of Valley Boulevard and east of 7th Avenue,
with service
''vine. to medical facilities within
the cities of Pomona, Walnut, Industry a
3. Railroad Lines
There are currently no passenger rail facilities in operation within the City of Diamond Bar. The
are located in Pomona and Fullerton. The Pomona Amtrak
stat,
nearest Amtrak facilities is located at 156 W. Commercial St. and is approximately nine
sees the Sunset Limited Route,
which serves the Southwest Chief
miles northeast of Diamond Bar. The Fullerton tottrak too other Amtrak lines, is located at the
and San Diegan lines, with intermodal (bus)
corner of Santa Fe and Harbor Boulevard and is approximately 13 miles to the southwest.
Diamond Bar is served by a Metrolink commuter rail station recently implemented along the Union
Pacific Railroad at Brea Canyon Road, just north of State Route 60.
V-12
May 5, 1995
rail line
the City of Diamond - The
erves
The Union Pacific Railroad is the only htwith thwhich tysof Industry, and serves the industrial
line lies along the City's northwestern boundary
areas north of Walnut Drive and Lycoming Street.
4. Bicycle, Hiking and Equestrian Trails
a. Bicycle Routes
There are three different classes of bikeways which are commonly recognized. A
definition of each bikeway class is presented below:
Class I Bikeway (W
Ike Path) - A completely separated right -of --way for the exclusive use of bicycles (and sometimes pedestrians) Cross-flow is minimized by limiting
access to designated points.
grated by separately striped lanes and
Class II Bikeway (Bike Lane) - Routes desi
signs along streets or highways.
ighways They provide restricted one-way travel for bicycles,
although motor vehicles are sometimes permitted to use the bike lane to make turns
and to park.
Class III Bikeway Bike Route) - Roadways in which the travel lanes are shared by
motor vehicles and bicycles whose route is designated by signs only. This type of
bikeway does not provide cyclists with increased privileges, but rather, informs
motorists of the cycling route.
Figure V-4 shows Existing Designated Bicycle Routes in the City of Diamond Bar.
The City currently has two designated bikeways along the length of Diamond Bar Boulevard and
of Golden Springs Drive from Brea Canyon Road to the northerly city limit.
along the length II
Diamond Bar Boulevard and Golden Springs Drive west of Diamond Bar Boulevard contain Class
bike lanes. The width of the bike lanes vary from 12 feet throughout most of the
eroadway �� t�th�
feet at a few locations with narrower curb -to -curb widths' Most signalizedintersection
fled within the
approaches are striped to permit right turns by motor vehicles. Parking Permitted
bike lanes except on Golden Springs Drive near Brea Canyon Road, and on the northbound lane of
Diamond Bar Boulevard between Montefino Avenue and Grand Avenue. Golden Springs Drive north
of Diamond Bar Boulevard is designated a Class III bike route on both sides of boththe sidesad o B
An
additional bikeway is marked, though not designated by City Resolution, along
Canyon Road between Pathfinder Road and Golden Springs Drive.
There are currently no Class I bikeways within the City of Diamond Bar.
The County plans to have bicycle routes serving the region that will connect withnet ocf Grand Av bicycle eastern nue,
The county system proposes bicycle trails to enter Diamond Barn the
ending cities have also
and north into the Tres Hermanos property along TOM" Cant
planned bicycle routes to connect from Diamond Bar north along d (the Mission es f Walnutand(Cit Industry),
of and
Pomona), west along Grand Avenue and Brea Cant' east aloe Grand Avenue (City of Chino
west along Golden Springs Drive (into Rowland Heights), S
Iftlls), and south along Chino Hills Parkway (City of Chino Hills).
-- b. Equestrian and Hiking Trails
There is currently one official equestrian and hiking trail available to the public within the City of
V-13
May 5, 1995
Diamond Bar. This trail, through the City, is part of a more extensive trail system owned and
maintained by the County of Los Angeles.
els the City's
The Skyline Trails Extension, unofficially called the S sections
m Trail of Los Angeles an ParaUSan °
southern and eastern boundaries with unincorporated
Counties as it winds through the hills from Brea Canyon Road to Grand Avenue. The trail
Traginat
es
at Schabarum Park to the west, where it interconnects with the Skyline Trail. The skyline
turn, interconnects with a vast system of equestrian trails to the tno th he trail d wtravest spreading
t Heights,
most of Los Angeles county- To the east of Schabarurm �Park, � it approaches the BOu�� City
then exits under Brea Canyon Road and the Orangea of the
limits of Diamond Bar to the east of Brea Canyon Road. The trail then travels near the edge
Firestone Boy Scout Reservation near the northern slopes of Tonner Canyon. As the trail trailturns turns
east
follows the City boundary lust inside of the City limits• The and
northeast, it roughly ain turning northerly, portions of the
follows the City boundary Just outside the City limits, and ag at Grand Avenue, where the
trail are within and portions are outside the City. The trail a Park to the north of Grand
Summit Ridge Park Connector Trail will allow access to Summitdg�s which the County has
Avenue within Diamond Bar. There are also a series of three sp trans,These three cOvectively known as
on Trail.
planned to conned with
ectio skyline
all lie outside of the City f Diamond Bar
the Skyline Trans
Figure V-5 shows hiking and equestrian trans to the City of Diamond Bar.
V-14
May 5, 1995
TSL
,SIO CLASS H
CLASS III
Figure V-4
Existing Designated Bicycle Routes
V-15
e Inoc
0 2000
Scale in Feat
DIAMOND BAR CITY LIMITS
DIAMOND BAR SPHERE OF INFLUENCE
�� , • sKnJNE TRAIM EXTENSION
(Schabon— Trail)
Figure V-5
Hiking and Equestrian Trails
V-16
May 5; 1995
0
ISR
Scale
l DIAMOND BAR CITY LMM
P7;7 --j DIAMOND BAR SPHERE OF INFLUENCE
TRUCK ROUTE
GENERAL PLAN
Figure V-6
Designated Truck Routes
Diamond Bar General Plan Circulation Element
May 5, 1995 V-18
5. Aviation
air
There are no aviation facilities located within the City of Diamond Bar.
ps sentge east The
el r air carrier c osest
cargo facilities are located at Ontario International Airport
located
1 nine miles to the north; and
general aviation airports are Brackett Field in La Verne, approximately
Chino Airport in the City of Chino, approximately 11 miles to the east.
Because Diamond Bar is under flight paths from both Ontario and Los Angeles International Airports,
and proximity to major freeways tends to increase the number of helicopter overflights, the ityn.
should remain vigilant to air traffic increases and seek regulations to relieve noise and air pollutiO
6. Goods Movement
Goods movement within the City of Diamond Bar occurs primarily through the use of trucks. The
City has established a designated truck route plan. Truck routes direct heavy truck traffic onto
arterial and collector facilities and away from local (residential) streets. This Plan helps control noise
and air pollution in residential areas of the City and protects local streets from significant surface
damage that might result from heavy truck traffic.
North of the combined section of the orange (57)/Pomona (60) Freeway it is necessary for freeway
traffic to exit onto Diamond Bar Boulevard when traveling southbound on the Orange Freeway en
route to the eastbound Pomona Freeway; and westbound Pomona Freeway traffic bound for the
northbound Orange Freeway. The section of Diamond Bar Boulevard between the eastbound Pomona
Freeway ramps and the northbound orange Freeway ramps to the north, and Sunset Crossing Road
between Diamond Bar Boulevard and the southbound Orange Freeway APs are designated
routes.
To enable access to the heavy industrial areas of the City of Industry and the City of Diamond Bar
north of Lycoming Street, truck routes are designated in western Diamond Bar along Golden Springs
Drive between Lemon Avenue and Brea Canyon Road, along both Brea Canyon Road and Lemon
Avenue north of Golden Springs Drive, and along Walnut Drive.
he City
Entrances into the City notify drivers of a five -ton weight restriction
pct ons for
limit co commercial
(except for designated truck routes), in addition to parking
vehicles over five tons to 30 minutes.
The General Plan Designated Truck Routes are illustrated in Figure V 6.
V-17
May 5, 1995
C. CIRCULATION ISSUES
The following significant issues concerning circulation are not necessarily listed in order of priority.
1. Future Development in Diamond Bar
The Diamond Bar General Plan provides for an additional 1,205 dwelling units, as well as additional
commercial office and business park uses.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: The Chitty needs policies to address impacts to all streets in Diamond
Bar and to maintain or improve roadway level -of -service standards.
2. Projected Growth in the Region
In addition to increases in traffic attributable to growth and development within the City of Diamond
Bar itself, the City will be impacted by future growth and development in surrounding communities
and the region. Increased traffic in the region will impact Diamond Bar through increased traffic
volumes along the regional transportation facilities including Routes 57 and 60 and Grand Avenue.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: The City needs policies to address impacts to all streets in Diamond
Bar and to maintain or improve roadway level -of -service standards.
3. Future Roadway System Within Diamond Bar
Many of the roadway facilities within Diamond Bar are projected to carry volumes of traffic at or in
excess of recommended daily capacity by the year 2010. At present, a significant amount of the
traffic is regional traffic with neither origin nor destination within the City. Examples are as follows:
Diamond Bar Boulevard - Average daily traffic volumes along Diamond Bar Boulevard immediately'
south of Grand Avenue are projected to be double the desirable volumes for a four -lane roadway.
South of Grand Avenue to Brea Canyon Road, forecast daily volume along Diamond Bar Boulevard
exceed recommended carrying capacity. North of Sunset Crossing, traffic volumes along Diamond
Bar Boulevard are projected to be within the carrying capacity of a four -lane roadway.
Golden Springs Drive - Year 2010 traffic volumes along Golden Springs Drive west of Brea Canyon
Road are projected to exceed the desirable maximum volumes for this four -lane roadway. From east
of Lemon Avenue to the City of Diamond Bar boundary, Golden Springs Drive is forecast to carry
traffic at or slightly below the recommended carrying capacity for a four -lane roadway.
The portion of Golden Springs Drive east of Grand Avenue is not a divided roadway and forecast
traffic volumes along this segment would exceed capacity.
Grand Avenue - Year 2010 traffic volume forecasts along the entire length of Grand Avenue within
the City of Diamond Bar are estimated to be in excess of the desirable maximum volumes for a four -
lane divided roadway.
Brea Canyon Road - The section of Brea Canyon Road from Golden Springs Drive to Washington
Street is projected to carry traffic volumes requiring arterial capacity.
Routes 57 and 60 - Both the Pomona Freeway (SR60) and the Orange Freeway (SR57) are forecast to
carry traffic volumes significantly in excess of their capacity. This will result in continued
Diamond Bar General Plan Circulation Element
May 5, 1995 V-19
congestion along these facilities with spillover onto City streets as motorists seek less congested
alternatives.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: The City needs to establish roadway classifications and standards for
dedication and roadway improvement for the principal streets in the
City.
4. The Development of an Alternative Travel Corridor Around the
City of Diamond Bar
With significant development planned for the Chino Hills area, both Diamond Bar Boulevard and
Grand Avenue are expected to carry larger through traffic volumes from SR57 than at present into
San Bernardino County. Alternative routes to the south would help relieve future congestion along
these and other Arterials within the City of Diamond Bar. However, the location of an alternative
travel corridor must consider its potential environmental and growth -inducing impacts. Under these
circumstances, it will be prudent for the City to consider the option of a by-pass corridor. Studies of
such a facility indicate that should forecasted development and freeway improvements occur, a by-
pass corridor will provide substantial relief to the key streets in Diamond Bar. Therefore, it will be
the policy of the City to:
0 not wait until need for the by-pass corridor is demonstrated, but proactively monitor
signs for the need so that timely planning and environmental steps can be taken;
0 explore regional options for transportation improvements prior to initiating
development of a regional by-pass corridor; _
• seek cooperation of adjoining jurisdictions in managing growth and assigning
responsibility for infrastructure improvements to support that growth; and
• establish criteria under which a by-pass corridor would be considered, designed,
constructed, and utilized.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: There is a need to consider a by-pass roadway around the City of
Diamond Bar to discourage regional traffic from using the City's
local streets for cut -through purposes only. This is of regional
concern and involves multiple jurisdictions. It is important for the
City to take the lead in assuring that any proposed project directly
benefits Diamond Bar residents and achieves the goals of this
General Plan.
5. Maintaining Grand Avenue's Current Traffic Carrying Capacity
Grand Avenue is a major arterial and provides a convenient alternative as a regional arterial, carrying
traffic to and from Route 57/60.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: The City will continue to monitor the effectiveness of Grand Avenue
in serving its local needs while maintaining its current traffic -
carrying capacity within the existing right -of --way. Ongoing efforts
include:
Diamond Bar General Plan Circulation Element
May 5, 1995 V-20
• Optimizing signal synchronization;
' Encouraging projects to improve interchange at Route 57/60; and
• Providing turnout lanes, where beneficial.
6. Increase the Effectiveness of State Routes 57 and 60 to Discourage
Through Regional Traffic Use of Diamond Bar Streets
It is desirable to reduce the use of Diamond Bar streets by regional traffic.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: One of the most feasible approaches the City can take to reduce
regional traffic on Diamond Bar Boulevard is to work with Caltrans
to improve conditions on State Route 57 and 60. Possible
improvements include:
• Upgrade the SR57/60 interchange to eliminate undue at -grade conflicts weaving
maneuvers and adding lanes or frontage roads between key interchanges;
• Provide HOV and connector lanes on both SR57 and SR60; and
• Provide truck climbing lanes where appropriate.
7. Surrounding Roadway Systems Impacting the City
It is also recognized that various roadway and street improvements are proposed or presently
under construction in neighboring communities or by other agencies which may impact the
City of Diamond Bar's transportation plans.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: Certain projects either planned or under construction have been
identified which may impact traffic circulation in the City.
These projects include but are not limited to:
• Completion of Route 30
• Upgrade of SR71 to freeway standards
• Improve the capacity of Interstate 10 (San Bernardino Freeway), State Route 60
(Pomona Freeway) and State Route 142,(Carbou Canyon Road)
• Completion of the Ii'igh Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) System on Interstate 10, Route
60, and State Route 57 from the San Bernardino and Orange County lines to
Highway 101.
8. Maintain the Cul -de -Sacs of Sunset Crossing Road, Beaverhead
Drive, Washington Street and Lycoming Street at the City's
Boundaries.
Sunset Crossing Road is presently a four -lane roadway providing access to/from a residential area of
northwest Diamond Bar. Sunset Crossing Road west of Route 57 has an interchange with southbound
Diamond Bar General Plan Circulation Element
May 5, 1995 V-21
Route 57, extends westerly and terminates east of the City limits adjacent to a park and Little League
field. The County of Los Angeles Highway Plan assumes Sunset Crossing Road is to be extended
southwesterly, through the City of Industry to a connection with Washington Street or in the vicinity.
The City of Industry is considering the development of the area beyond the terminous of Sunset
Crossing Road, Beaverhead Drive, Washington Street and Lycoming Street with industrial uses and a
waste -to -rail materials recovery facility to make maximum advantage of its proximity to freight rail
lines. The area through which these streets would be extended is presently undeveloped. The
extension of these streets and the proposed development of industrial uses would significantly increase
the volume of traffic along these residential streets and introduce a significant number of trucks into
these residential neighborhoods.
ISSUE ANALYSIS: The City should implement strong measures to maintain the integrity
of residential neighborhoods.
D. GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES
"IT IS TRE OVERALL GOAL OF THE PLAN TO PROVIDE A SAFE, ADEQUATE AND
ENVIRONMENTALLYSENSMVE 7RANSPORTA77ON SYSTEM TO MEET.THE
CIRCULA77ON NEEDS OF THE CITIZENS OF DIAMOND BAR. "
GOAL 1 "Consistent with the Vision Statement, 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 1.1 Participate in local and regional transportation related planning and decision-
making.
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
between local 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 Initiate regional traffic mitigation efforts with the cities of Brea and Chino
Hills by forming a task force, assisted by technical personnel to evaluate
alternative travel corridors through the easterly portion of the Sphere of
Influence. Efforts will generally include:
(a) Recognition of environmentally sensitive areas;
(b) Identification of the types of environmentally sensitive roadways
which will be considered;
Diamond Bar General Plan Circulation Element
May 5, 1995 V-22
(c) Avoiding disruption of SEA 15;
(d) Land use constraints and development limitations which may be in
place or imposed;
(e) Contribution to congestion based on development and anticipated
growth projections;
(f) Prioritization of alternatives based on available documentation,
studies, reports, etc.;
(g) Identification of alternative funding sources for studies, design,
construction and maintenance such as, but not limited to:
(1) Los Angeles, Orange and San Bernardino Counties;
(2) State of California;
(3) Federal Government;
(4) Local funding;
(5) Development; and
(6) Private.
(h) Identification and formulation of a short and long range plan of
action to address the by-pass issue.
1.1.5 Work with neighboring communities to encourage the ongoing efforts to
complete existing projects and possible improvements to existing
infrastructures such as:
(a) Completion of SR30;
(b) Upgrade of SR71 to freeway standards;
(c) Additional lanes on SR60; and
(d) Increasing the roadway capacity of SR142, Carbon Canyon Road.
1.1.6 Continue to seek support for Regional State Transportation Improvement
Program (RSTIP) projects as proposed by the City of Diamond Bar such as:
(a) Encourage modification of the SR571SR60 interchange;
(b) Support construction of HOV lanes on SR60, from SR57 north to
San Bernardino County;
(c) Support construction of HOV lanes on SR60, from Brea Canyon
Road to SR57 north;
(d) Support construction of HOV lanes on SR57, from Orange County
to SR60; and.
(e) Pursue additional Park and Ride facilities east of the City.
Diamond Bar -General Plan Circulation Element
May 5, 1995 V-23
1. 1.7 The City should encourage the efforts of other jurisdictions and agencies to
complete the work on other circulation projects outside of Diamond Bar that
will positively effect Diamond Bar's traffic conditions. These projects
include:
(a) Completion of SR30;
(b) Upgrade of SR71 to freeway standards;
(c) The construction of Soquel Canyon Road extension to SR57;
(d) pursue development of additional lanes on SR60 easterly of the City;
and
(e) Improve the capacity of State Route 142, Carbon Canyon Road.
1.1.8 Coordinate the use of land use policies from neighboring communities and
incorporate all existing traffic data including improvements and proposal for
the regional circulation system.
1.1.9 Encourage improvements to regional routes and arterial streets to be
sensitive to environmentally, aesthetic and noise concerns and provide
adequate buffers to adjacent land uses.
1.1.10 Through the use of the provisions of the California Health and Safety Code,
Division 24, Parts 1, 1.5 and 1.7, pursue a comprehensive and, if possible,
coordinated effort with the City of Industry and the State of California to
upgrade the one mile stretch of freeway carrying the SR57 and SR60; and
upgrade the interchanges of Brea Canyon Road and the SR60; Grand Avenue
and the SR57/60; and Diamond Bar Boulevard at the SR57 north and south;
and the widening of Golden Springs Drive.
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 including, but not limited to,
additional stop signs at problem intersections, timing of signals and
regulation of speed limits.
1.2.2 Maintain flexibility in the cross sections and configuration of streets within
topographically rugged or environmentally sensitive areas.
1.2.3 Pursue other traffic measures to enhance circulation and transient traffic
movements.
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.
Diamond Bar General Plan Grculatton Element
V-24
May 5, 1995
1.3.2 Implement traffic control programs in 1.2.1 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.
1.3.4 Minimize impacts of roadways serving the proposed future Diamond Ranch
High School site on surrounding residential neighborhoods.
1.3.5 The City should implement strong measures to maintain the integrity of the
Sunset Crossing Road and other residential areas at the western City limits
by cul-de-sacing Sunset Crossing Road and retaining the cul-de-sacing of
Lycoming, Washington and Beaverhead Streets.
GOAL 2 "Consistent with the Vision Statement, 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 Metrolink Station
near Brea Canyon Road and SR60.
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 Maintain, expand and upgrade the system of bicycle routes connecting
residential areas to major community attractions utilizing current City design
guidelines. Upgrades of the current system will include investigative means
to improve signing and marking of bikeways. The City shall develop a
master plan of bikeways.
2.1.9 Pursue a cooperative joint agencies program to provide access for Diamond
Diamond Bar General Plan Circulation Element
V-25
May 5, 1995
Bar residents to a regional light rail system.
2.1.10 Lobby Caltrans to provide HOV lanes on local freeways.
2.1.11 Explore the feasibility of interconnected public equestrian trails.
2.1.12 Explore the feasibility of interconnected public hiking trails.
Objective 2.2 Maximize connection of all areas within the City through the circulation system.
Strategies:
2.2.1 Work to ensure that any new development is provided with adequate access
from within the City of Diamond Bar.
2.2.2 Through the roadway system, ensure that new development within the Tres
Hermans Ranch property is integrated into the community of Diamond Bar.
2.2.3 Work with Pomona Unified School District to provide secondary access to
the future Diamond Ranch High School.
2.2.4 Coordinate with Pomona Unified School District and City of Industry &
Urban Development to insure timely design and construction of secondary
access to the future Diamond Ranch High School.
GOAL 3 "Consistent with the Vision Statement, maintain an adequate level of service on
area roadways."
Objective 3.1 Improve the safety and efficiency of existing transportation facilities.
Strategies:
3. 1.1 Maintain Level of Service "C" or better at arterial mid -block segments
(average daily) and "D" or better during peak hours at signalized
intersections to the extent possible. (See Level of Service descriptions in
Table V-1)
3.1.2 Improve arterial mid -block segments to. provide average daily service levels
of "C" or better to prevent use of local and collector streets as alternate
routes.
3.1.3 Improve intersections in the City which have peak hour traffic service levels
worse than "D". Where feasible, these improvements should be made within
existing right-of-way.
3.1.4 Maintain a pavement management system and maintenance program for all
public roadways throughout the City.
3.1.5 Develop a signal system management system and maintenance program for
all traffic signals throughout the City.
Diamond Bar General Plan Circulation Element
V-26
May 5, 1995
3.1.6 Consider all opportunities to expand and maintain pedestrian access routes
throughout the City.
3.1.7 Synchronize signals on all major roads throughout the City of Diamond Bar
(see Circulation Element Figure V-2) and adjacent communities.
Objective 3.2 Explore all available opportunities and mechanisms for funding transportation
improvements.
Strategies:
3.2.1 All new development shall be required to provide mitigation measures. Such
measures could include improvements or traffic impact fees.
3.2.2 Solicit State and Federal funds to improve area freeways to eliminate use of
local streets as part of the freeway system.
3.2.3 Consider implementing a traffic impact fee system.
3.2.4 Develop a regional financing mechanism(s) to assess new development for
the cost of mitigating traffic impacts.
3.2.5 Consider the use of a "toll road" to finance and maintain the environmentally
sensitive transportation corridor.
3.2.6 Continue to solicit State, Federal and other funds to improve local streets.
GOAL 4 "Consistent with the Vision Statement, provide or regulate the provision of the
supply of parking to meeting the needs for both residents and commercial
businesses."
Objective 4.1 Ensure compliance with the Southern California Air Quality Management District
Regulation 15 trip reduction requirements.
Strategies:
4.1.1 Regulate the provision of preferential parking for high occupancy vehicles
wherever possible.
4.1.2 Consider reductions in parking in exchange for transportation demand
management programs.
Objective 4.2 Provide adequate parking fivr all types of land use within the City of Diamond Bar.
Strategies:
4.2.1 Use existing parking demand data sources to update City Code requirements
pertaining to parking, particularly the provision of sufficient parking for land
uses generating a high demand for parking.
Diamond ]Sar General Plan Circulation Element
May 5, 1995 V-27
4.2.2 Encourage school districts to improve parking and loading facilities for
public schools to minimize the impact on the circulation system.
4.2.3 Establish parking requirements for housing to a level consistent with the
occupants transportation needs.
4.2.4 Strengthen off-street parldng codes for new residential development in order
to increase the number of off-street parldng spaces.
Diamond Bar General Plan Circulation Element
May 5, 1995 V-28
PUBLIC SERVICES
and FACILITIES
ELEMENT
GENERAL PLAN
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
A. Introduction ................................. VI -1
B. Existing Conditions ............................ VI -2
C. Public Services and Facilities Issues .................. VI -3
D. Goals, Objectives, and Implementation Strategies .......... VI -4
VI. PUBLIC SERVICES AND FACIOL ES ELEMENT
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:
Section
Land Use Element
III. Resource Management Element
IV. Public Health and Safety Element
Land Use (for all services & utilities)
Parks and Recreation
Water (and Reclaimed Wastewater)
Energy System
Solid Waste
Flood Control
Police
Fire
Emergency Services
Disaster Preparedness
The Public Services and Facilities Element seeks to tie the provision of these various services and
facilities together into an integrated strategy for municipal management. The Element 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
May 5, 1995 VI -1
_ 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. Currently, there are
approximately 140 lots located within "The Country Estates" that are utilizing on-site waste water
disposal systems.
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 is handled by the County Sheriff's 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, MTA
bus system, Walnut -Diamond Bar YMCA, and Seniors organization.
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Services and Facilities Element
May 5, 1995 VI -2
C. PUBLIC SERVICES AND FACIL]TIFS ISSUES
If the City decides to provide more local services that are now contracted out, or decides to increase the
levels of existing services, there may be a future need for a larger civic center in a more centralized
location. This long-term facility need would have to be balanced against a community desire for no
increases in local costs. The most cost effective way to provide such a facility would be through a joint
public/private arrangement to build a civic center for the City, most likely in exchange for some kind
of development arrangement. This facility could also house a number of other social programs for City
residents, such as a senior center or a community center.
The City may wish to plan its own long-range program of wastewater conveyance and treatment separate
from Los Angeles County plans. Discussions with Orange County would be needed to determine if a
separate sewage system were feasible. A larger problem would likely be the funding and timing of
construction for some type of new system. Although most of the backbone system is already in place
and designed to flow toward the Los Angeles system, a detailed alternative service plan could be
prepared to address a change in flow direction. The costs and timing of such a new system would have
to be weighed against potential failures of the existing system.
The existing flood control system is presently adequate, but the City should establish if or how any local
costs might accrue as the system ages, so that there are no "surprises" in future budgets. A master
drainage plan will need to be developed for the City and its Sphere of Influence. The City should
consider its responsibility under the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), including
to the maximum extent possible, reasonable measures to minimize the impacts of urban stormwater
pollution as it is collected, conveyed and discharged through the City's flood control system.
The City may decide it wants to take a proactive role in developing long-term solutions to regional solid
waste problems. At a minimum, the City will participate in the mandated planning requirements for
source reduction, recycling, and hazardous waste issues.
Police and fire services are presently adequate. However, the City may wish to study providing its own
protective services, or joining a more local association (non -County) to provide them. In the future, the
Sphere of Influence may require additional police and fire protection as development occurs.
The County's library is not presently adequate for local residents, although there are many other
community libraries in the arra that can provide additional resources. The City may want to consider
providing for its own library, or explore joint usage agreements possibly as part of a centralized civic
center complex in the future.
Although local water purveyors can adequately serve the area in terms of facilities, a continuation of the
Statewide drought could put severe restrictions on the availability of water. The City may wish to take
a proactive stance on securing additional water supplies for itself, or at least keeping current on potential
new sources or limitations.
Energy facilities and systems presently appear adequate, although there may be supply shortages in the
future. The City should take a more active role in energy conservation and the development of new
energy technologies. There are numerous governmental and private organizations in the arra that might
wish to use City resources to test new programs or devices. The City may wish to take a more proactive
role in planning for its energy future.
Local schools are presently experiencing overcrowding at some locations at different levels. The State
funding mechanism for constructing new schools will probably not be sufficient to build local schools.
Year-round school or other programs or building modifications may be necessary to continue providing
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Services and Facilities Element
May 5, 1995 VI -3
quality education to local students. The City may choose to work closely with the local districts on site
selection, funding mechanisms and joint use of facilities.
D. GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND D"LEMENTATION STRATEGIES
-IT IS THE OVERALL GOAL OF THE PLAN THAT THE CITY ACQUIRE AND MAINTAIN
ADEQUATE RESOURCES TO MEET THE NEEDS OF ITS RESIDENTS. "
GOAL 1 "Provide adequate infrastructure facilities and public services to support
development and planned growth."
Objective 1.1 Maintain adequate systems for water supply and distribution; Wastewater/sewage
collection, treatment, and disposal; solid waste collection and disposal; and energy
distribution which are capable of meeting the needs of the residents of Diamond Bar.
Strategies:
1.1.1 Prior to permitting a major extension of services or utilities to facilitate changes
in land use, conduct a thorough review of all social, economic, and
environmental factors associated with that extension; require the implementation
of appropriate mitigation measures.
1. 1.2 Protect existing residents and businesses from the cost of financing
infrastructure aimed at supporting new development or the intensification of
development.
1. 1.3 Require the construction of water, sewer, drainage and other necessary public
facilities prior to or concurrent with each new development.
1.1.4 Require the project sponsor to provide all necessary infrastructure
improvements (including the pro rata share of system -wide improvements).
1. 1.5 Coordinate the long-term provision of utility services, including water,
wastewater, sewage, electricity, natural gas, solid waste, etc. to assure adequate
future levels of services for City residents.
(a) Monitor plans by the Metropolitan Water District and City of Industry
to locate a water reservoir in upper Tonner Canyon.
(b) Support development of appropriately sited, environmentally sensitive,
solid waste treatment facilities which do not impact resident's quality
of life.
1.1.6 Require all new housing subdivisions be connected to a public sewage system.
Objective 1.2 Establish and implement solutions to the financing of public facilities and services which
best protect the interests of the taxpayer.
Strategies:
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Services and Facilities Element
May 5, 1995 VI -4
1.2.1 Establish a development fee structure which best assures that costs for new
capital facilities and expansion of existing facilities necessitated by the approval
of new development or intensification of existing development are funded by the
proponents or beneficiaries of projects, in proportion to the demand created by
the development.
1.2.2 Investigate and, if feasible, initiate the establishment of a redevelopment agency
in the City of Diamond Bar to facilitate the mitigation of traffic and circulation
deficiencies, the financing of public improvements and other similar tasks.
objective 1.3 Provide residents with access to high quality local educational facilities.
Strategies:
1.3.1 Continue a cooperative program with the Pomona Unified School District to
construct a high school in the City of Diamond Bar on Tres Hermans Ranch.
As part of high school development, pursue development of a major joint use
recreational facility (e.g. auditorium pool, ball fields, tennis, footbalUSoccer
courts, stadium, gymnasium).
1.3.2 Work closely with the Walnut Valley and Pomona Unified School Districts on
an ongoing basis to resolve issues such as joint use of facilities, location of new
facilities, and alternative use of vacant or unused sites.
1.3.3 Encourage joint development of recreational facilities with the local school
districts. ^
1.3.4 Enable, through appropriate zoning and development regulations or with a
Conditional Use Permit, the construction and operation of private school
facilities.
Objective 1.4 Enable, through appropriate zoning and development regulations, the provision of
cultural facilities, such as educational institutions, museums, and performing arts
facilities, to meet the needs of Diamond Bar residents.
Strategies:
1.4.1 Pursue the acquisition of a site and development of a civic center, including a
multi -use community center.
1.4.2 Monitor plans of the University of California to locate new campuses in
Diamond Bar.
1.4.3 Work with Los Angeles County to insure adequate library services are
provided.
objective 1.5 stimulate opportunities for a population which is diverse in terms of age, occupation,
income, race, interests, and religion to interact, exchange ideas, and establish and
realize common goals.
Strategies:
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Services and Facilities Element
VI -5
-May 5, 1"5
1.5.1 Retain and provide community social gathering places, including active and
natural park lands and one or more community centers. In private commercial
and office complexes encourage the development of plaza areas.
1.5.2 Maintain a public information program to inform residents of community
events.
(a) Whenever possible, establish permanent locations and regular dates for
community events to improve attendance.
(b) Encourage a "Community Calendar" as part of the local cable
television programming to inform residents about the times and
locations of upcoming community events.
1.5.3 Within new residential developments, encourage organization of individual
neighborhoods and discourage through traffic on local streets while maintaining
pedestrian and bicycle continuity and encourage neighborhood parks,
improvement programs and social events.
GOAL 2 "Consistent with the Vision Statement, achieve a fiscally solvent, financially stable
community."
Objective 2.1 Provide sufficient opportunities for retail and other non-residential commercial and
office uses as necessary to maximize municipal income to jiinanee desired community
amenities.
Strategies:
2.1.1 promote the intensification of the sales tax generating potential of existing and
future commercial areas within the City.
2.1.2 Work with State officials and local elected representatives to make a determined
effort to promote statewide legislation that would secure guaranteed long-term
stable financing of local government based primarily upon property tax
revenues. Alternatively, support legislation that would redistribute sales tax
revenues to local agencies based upon an equitable formula that would include
both the location where the sales tax revenue was collected and the population
of each local agency involved.
2.1.3 Pursue the expansion of municipal boundaries to areas which can be utilized to
assist in the provision of sufficient municipal income to provide the high level
of services and facilities demanded by Diamond Bar residents.
2.1.4 Utilize public cost/benefit and/or fiscal impact analysis in the review of new
development proposals and in determining acceptability.
Objective 2.2 Promote efficiency in the provision of public services and facilities.
Diamond Bar General Plan Public Services and Facilities Element
May 5, 1995 VI -6
Strategies:
2.2.1 Conduct periodic review of user charges, development fees, and public facilities
impact mitigation fees in accordance with California Government Code Section
66000 et al, (AB1600) to ensure that the charges are consistent with the costs
of improvement and maintenance, and that public services and facilities are
being expanded in a cost-efficient manner.
Objective 2.3 Promote public and private services and amenities to the community.
Strategies:
2.3.1 Identify and pursue opportunities for private provision of services and facilities
within the City of Diamond Bar, including joint public/private efforts.
2.3.2 Explore joint or cooperative use of facilities owned or constructed by other
public agencies. Potential locations include, but are not limited to, the Pomona
Unified School District Ifigh School site in the Tres germanos area; Site "D"
owned by the Walnut Valley Unified School District off of Diamond Bar
Boulevard east of the SR57; South Pointe Middle School; and the Walnut
Valley Unified School District school/office site on Lemon Avenue just north
of the SR60.
2.3.3 Provide regular information to citizens regarding current issues, public safety
information, resource management information, city services, Public meeting
schedules, hazardous material collection programs, etc.
VI -7
May 5, 1995
III. RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
"ITIS THE OVERALL GOAL OF= PLANTO PROVIDEAND MAINTAINADEQUATE OPENSPACES
IN THE CITY TO SERVE THE DIVERSE RECREATIONAL NEEDS OF ITS RESIDENTS, WHILE
FOSTERING THE WISE USE OF LIMITED NATURAL RESOURCES. "
W.
GOAL 1 "Consistent with the Visioon Statement, create and maintain an open space system
which will preserve scenic beauty, protect important biological resources, provide
open space for outdoor recreation and the enjoyment of nature, conserve natural
resources, and protect public health and safety."
Objective I. I Preserve signiftcant visual features which are within, or are visible from the City of
Diamond Bar, with an emphasis on the preservation of remaining natural hillside
areas.
1.1.1 Develop regulations for the
Existing
City Council, upon
Complete
General fund
protection of ridgelines, slope
Program
Planning Commission
regulations for
areas, canyons, and hilltops.
recommendation;
inclusion into
Require contour or landform
Community
Development
grading, clustering of
Development Director
code within 6
development, or other means to
months after
minimize visual and
General Plan
environmental impacts to
adoption
ridgelines or prominent slopes.
1.1.2 Require that all excess
Existing
Building Official
Ongoing
Development
excavated and waste materials
Program
review fees
be properly removed and
disposedof, or otherwiseplaced
so as to become an integral part
of the site development.
1.1.3 Require that dwelling units and
Existing
Community
Complete
General fund;
structures within hillside areas
Program
Development
guidelines
Development
be sited in such a manner as to
Director;
within 6
review fees
utilize ridgelines and landscape
developmentreview
months of
plant materials as a backdrop
bodies
General Plan
for the structures and the
adoption;
structures themselves to provide
ongoing
maximum concealment of cut
thereafter
slopes.
1.1.4 Preserve to the maximum extent
Existing
Community
Ongoing
Development
feasible existing vegetation
Program
Development
review fees
within undeveloped hillside
Director;
arm•
development review
bodies
1.1.5 When deemed necessary by the
Existing
Community
Ongoing
Development
City, require that significant
Program
Development
review fees
vegetation be preserved or
Director;
transplanted as determined by a
development review
qualified biota report approved
bodies
by the City.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAYS, 1995 MMP -III -1
... .'
.:.
.:
...... 7...
N.
.... :
1.1.6 Pursue the preservation of areas
Existing
Community
Ongoing
Development
within Diamond Bar and its
Program
Development
review fees
Sphere of Influence, of
Director;
outstanding scenic, historic, and
development review
cultural value.
bodies
1.1.7 To the greatest extent possible,
Existing
Community
Ongoing
Development
require that dwelling units,
Program
Development
review fees
structures and landscaping be
Director; Building
sited in a manner which:
Official; development
review bodies
Protects views
Retains view opportunities
- Preserves or enhances
vistas
Preserves mature trees,
natural hydrology, native
plant materials, and visual
interest
Permits removal of
vegetationas part of a City
or Fire District approved
fuel modification program.
1.1.8 Utilize grading permit
New Program
Community
Ongoing
General fund;
procedures to ensure that site
Development Director
development
designs for development
review fees
proposals for hillside areas
conform to the natural terrain,
and consider the visual aspects.
1.1.9 Work with the appropriate
New Program
Community
Prepare
General fund;
jurisdictions to protect
Development
guidelines
development
prominent ridges, slopes, and
Director; City
within 6
review fees
hilltops in and adjacent to the
Council, upon
months of
City and its Sphere of Influence,
Planning Commission
. General Plan
such as SEA 15, Tonner
recommendation
adoption;
Canyon, the hills in the City of
ongoing
Industry, west of the 57
thereafter
Freeway at Grand Avenue, the
hills within the County of Los
Angeles (Rowland Heights),
west of the 57 Freeway, south
of Brea Canyon Cutoff Road,
the portion of Tonner Canyon
within the Chino Hills Specific
Plan, and the portion of Tonner
Canyon within the City of Brea
(Orange County).
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -III -2
1.1.10 Enact provisions and techniques
New Program
Community
Complete
General Fund
that enhance groundwater
Development Director
within 1 year
recharge and local water
of General
recovery.
Plan adoption
1.1.11 Expeditiously develop and adopt
a tree ordinance designed to
retain and/or replace native
trees within the City.
1.1.12 New development should
include the preservation of
significant trees of cultural or
historical value.
1.1.13 Develop a plan to provide a
mechanism for, and to pursue
the preservation of designated
open space.
Objective 1.2 Maintain, protect, and preserve biologically signficant areas, including SEA 15,
riparian areas, oak and walnut woodlands, and other areas of natural significance,
providing only such recreational and cultural opportunities as can be developed in a
manner sensitive to the environment.
1.2.1 Recognizing the significance of Existing
SEA 15 ecological resources, Program
support further definition of the
extent and intensity of such
resources to provide needed
additional information for the
purpose and intent of
preservation of this area.
Community Ongoing Development
Development review fees
Director;
development review
bodies
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -III -3
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORIIVG PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995
MMP -III -4
.::>,
1.2.2 In conjunction with local
New Program
Parks and Recreation
Initiate
General fund;
schools, environmental groups
Director; Parks
program
park
and volunteers, the City may
Commission
within 1 year
improvement
participate in environmental
of General
funds
education programs.
Plan adoption
Minimize or eliminate
impacts on sensitive areas;
Protect the visual seclusion
of forage areas;
Providewildlife movement
linkagesto water, food and
nesting;
Providevegetationthat can
be used by wildlife for
cover along roadsides;
Avoid intrusion of night
lighting into identified
areas;
Allow wildlife and
migration access by use of
tunnels or other practical
means;
Replace fresh drinking
water for wildlife when
natural water areas are
removed or blocked.
To the greatest extent
possible, prevent street
water runoff from flowing
into natural or blueline
streams.
1.2.3 In conjunction with local
Existing
Community
Ongoing
Development
schools, environmental groups
Program
Development
review fees;
and volunteers, the City may
Director;
park funds
participate in environmental
development review
education programs.
bodies
1.2.4 Take an active role in pursuing
the preservation of
environmentally sensitive
canyon areas in their natural
state.
1.2.5 To the greatest extent possible,
providefor preservationof flora
and fauna.
Objective 1.3 Maintain a system of recreation facilities and open space preservation which meet the
active and passive recreational needs of Diamond Bar residents of all aees.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORIIVG PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995
MMP -III -4
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -III -5
..:
Jltj.:'
....
>....:
1.3.1 As quickly as possible, complete
Existing
Parks and Recreation
Complete
.. .
General fund;
a Recreational Needs Analysis
Program
Director; Parks
master plan
development
to determine the present and
Commission
for parks and
review fees;
future recreation and park needs
recreation
park funds
and update this analysis at
within 1 year
intervals of not more than 5
of General
years.
Plan approval;
implement
program
within 1 year
thereafter
1.3.2 As quickly as possible, complete
New Program
City Engineer;
Ongoing
Development
and adopt a comprehensive
developmentreview
review fees
Master Plan of Parks which
bodies
analyzes present and future
recreation, park and open space
preservation needs.
1.3.3 Through the Master Plan of
Existing
Community
Ongoing
Development
Parks, strive to provide
Program
Development Director
review fees
neighborhood and community
park facilities, such that a rate
of 5.0 acres per 1000 residents
is ultimately achieved.
1.3.4 Maintain an inventory of open
Existing
Parks and Recreation
Ongoing
Park funds
lands which were set aside for
Program
Director; Parks
open space uses as part of
Commission
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.
1.3.5 Recreational Open Space shall
New Program
Parks and Recreation
Complete
General fund;
be preserved as recreational
Director; Parks
greenbeltplan
development
open space unless and until said
Commission
within 18
review fees;
recreational open spaces are
months of
park funds;
replaced with equivalent open
General Plan
assessment
space properties and facilities
adoption
district
1.3.6 Pursue the development of a
Existing
Parks and Recreation
Ongoing
system of greenbelts within the
Program
Director; Parks
community.
Commission
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -III -5
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL. PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONTTORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -III -6
...'.acs:.;
1.3.7 Develop recreation facilities
New Program
Parks and Recreation
Complete
General fund;
emphasizing active and passive
Director; Parks
analysiswithin
development
recreation areas. The
Commission
6 months of
review fees;
development of a community
General Plan
park funds
center, the acquisition of
adoption
traditional neighborhood
parkland including community
athletic fields should be
pursued.
• Improve and enhance
existing recreation areas.
• Pursue joint public/private
development of recreation
facilities.
• Develop and maintain a
comprehensive inventory
of recreation facilities and
update the facilities to
ensure that the City's
needs are being met.
• Actively pursue land
acquisition for parks.
• Pursue acquisition of
various hillside areas for
natural parks.
• Initiate a program of
identifyingenvironmentally
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
environmentallysignificant
areas.
• Pursue development of an
integrated trails system
within the community.
1.3.8 Work with property owners and
Existing
Parks and Recreation
Complete
General fund;
neighboringjurisdictionsto plan
Program
Director; Parks
master plan
development
and locate an untreated potable
Commission
within 1 year
review fees;
water reservoir in the upper
of General
park funds
Tonner Canyon/Tres Hermans
Plan adoption
Ranch area. Planning should
encourage and emphasize
recreational uses and facilities
that could be developedon lands
surroundingthe reservoir.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL. PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONTTORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -III -6
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. . . . . . . ...... ...... . . . . . . .
. . ........
. . ........
.............
2.1.2 Prepare ordinances that allow
New Program
City Engineer;
Ongoing
Development
for the implementation of
Community
review fees
feasible water conservation
Development
technologies into now
Director;
developments, such as, but not
development review
limited to, self-closing valves,
bodies
installation of hot water lines,
or other technology.
2.1.3 Consistent with State law,
Existing
Community
Ongoing
Development
encourage the use of primarily
Program
Development
review fees
drougbt-tolerantplants, efficient
Director;
design in landsespeapplication,
developmentreview
and reclaimed water systems.
bodies
a. As part of the City
development review of
landscaping plans,
discourage installation of
large areas of lawn or turf,
or limit installations to
areas that require the use
of grass, where feasible.
b. Where domestic water
supplies are used in the
irrigation of turf areas,
encourage the use of
drought tolerant
vegetation.
c. To the extent possible,
encourage the preservation
of existing native trees and
shrubs, as established
plants are often adapted to
low water consumption.
f. Requireresidentialbuilders
to provide information to
prospective buyers of now
homes within the City of
Diamond Bar regarding
drought -tolerant planting
concepts.
g. Require non-residential
builders to provide
information to prospective
buyers or tenants within
the City of Diamond Bar
regarding drought -tolerant
planting concepts.
h. Where possible, require
the extensive use of mulch
in landscape areas to
improve the water -holding
capacity of the soil by
reducing evaporation and
soil compaction.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -III -8
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONPTORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -III -9
2.1.4 Require irrigation efficiency
Existing
City Engineer
Ongoing
General fund;
within the City. Encourageand
Program
development
upgrade irrigation systems to the
review fees
most efficient system available.
2.1.5 Establish the City as a leader in
Existing
City Engineer
Ongoing
General fund;
the implementation of water
Program
development
conservation measures through
review fees
expeditious implementation of
the measures outlined above.
Objective 2.2 Encourage efficient use of energy by minimizing the consumption of energy resources
to the minimal amount needed to support existing and planned land uses, through a
combination of efficient land use patterns and passive and active energy conservation
systems.
2.2.1 As a general principle, replace
Existing
All City departments;
Ongoing
General fund;
total dependence on
Program
developmentreview
development
nonrenewable, imported energy
bodies
review fees
resourceswith a greater reliance
on locally available renewable
resources to a degree which is
feasible and in accord with
current technology.
2.2.2 In conjunction with review of
New Program
Community
Ongoing
Development
development applications,
Development
review fees
encourage the incorporation of
Director;
the following:
developmentreview
bodies
Provide for clusters of
buildings with protected
indoor or plaza/open areas
within multiple family
residential, commercial,
and office projects to
promote protection from
the wind and sun.
Orient the maximum
amount of glass possible
toward the south, the side
with the greatestamountof
solar collection (heat gain
potential), in combination
with other measures for
shading to mitigate against
summer heat.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONPTORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -III -9
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -III -10
F7 . Use appropriate building
shapes and locations in
order to promote
maximum feasible solar
access of individual units.
Design individualbuildings
to maximize natural
internal lighting through
interior court wells,
interior court areas,
skylights, clerestory
windows, and energy
efficient building shapes.
Use canopies and
overhangsto provideshade
to windows during summer
months, while allowingfor
reflectionof direct sunlight
through the windows
during winter months (care
should be taken to assure
that overhangs and
canopies do not prevent
sufficient light for daytime
purposes).
Incorporate the use of
drought tolerant deciduous
trees in landscaping plans,
especially near buildings
and around expanses of
paved areas.
Incorporate drought
tolerant deciduous vines,
trellises, and canopies to
shade south and westward
facing walls, to cool them
in summer months.
Locate trees and hedges
planted close to buildings
so as to channel beneficial
cooling breezes through
openings.
2.2.3 Where possible, minimize
Existing
Community
Ongoing
Development
reflective surfaces (i.e. parking
Program
Development
review fees
lots) on the north and east side
Director;
of buildings; alternatively,
development review
where parking areas must be
bodies
located to the south or west of
buildings, provide additional
landscapingto reduce heat gain.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -III -10
. .. .. .... .... I ..... . .......
...... . . .. . ............
. ......... ........... -
.......... ............ ....... . .. ..
.. . . ......
2.2.4 Investigate the feasibility of
Now Program
Community
Complete
General fund;
adopting an Energy Ordinance
Development
analysisof
development
that will incorporate retrofit
Director; City
feasibility
review fees
provisions for the installation of
Council, upon
within I year
energy conservation measures
Planning Commission
of General
on existing structures, solar pool
recommendation
Plan adoption;
and hot tub provisions that will
if feasible,
discouragenatural gas heaters as
prepare
the primary energy source.
ordinance
within 6
months
2.2.5 Implement, through the
New Program
Community
Ongoing
Development
subdivision ordinance or
Development
review fees
through other appropriate
Director;
mechanisms, the Solar Rights
development review
Act of 1978 which addresses
bodies
structural orientation for solar
access, and includes such
concepts as solar easements,
functional landscaping, street
layout, and architectural
designs that reduce energy
costs.
2.2.6 Encourage, through the use of
New Program
Community
Prepare
General fund;
financial incentives, solar
Development
requirements
development
energy systems for the heating
Director; Building
within 6
review fees
of swimming pools in new
Official; development
months of
multi -family residential
review bodies
General Plan
developments.
adoption;
ongoing
thereafter
2.2.7 Take full advantage of the
Existing
Community
Ongoing
General fund;
CEQA process as a tool for
Program
Development
development
evaluating energy use and
Director;
review fees
potential energy impacts, and
development review
for implementing appropriate
bodies
energy conservationmeasures.
2.2.8 Require the inclusion, where
Existing
Community
Ongoing
General fund;
feasible, of provisions for
Program
Development
development
energy efficient modes of
Director; Building
review fees
transportation and fixed
Official; development
facilities which establish public
review bodies
mass transit, bicycle,
equestrian, and pedestrian
modes as desirable alternatives.
2.2.9 Work with appropriate Federal,
Now Program
City manager's office
Ongoing
General fund
State, and private utility
agencies to identify and
facilitate appropriate, legislation
for utility rate revisions that
would provide incentives for the
conservation of energy by the
shifting of energy usage to non -
peak hours.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -III -11
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. ... .. ...... .... ......
... ........
........
.........
g
1110 increase public awareness of
Now Program
City Manager's office
Initiate public
General fund
energy conservation technology
information
and practices by the
within 6
dissemination of information
Mcommunication
months of
that describes energy
General Plan
conservation practices for
adoption;
community members. This will
ongoing
encourage ongoing
thereafter
and the
generation of ideas, plans, and
programs for the future
developmentof Diamond Bar as
an energy efficient city.
Objective 2.3 Reduce overall local energy consumption by promoting efficient land use patterns
which reduce the amount of vehicular travel.
2.3.1 Land uses in the, City will be
Existing
City Council, upon
Ongoing
General fund;
planned to reduce vehicle miles
Program
Planning Commission
development
traveled between compatible and
recommendation;
review fees
related uses, such as home-
Community
shopping, home -office, home-
Development
school, etc.
Director;
devclopmentroview
a. This will apply to mixed-
bodies
use Planned Developments
in particular when
planning and reviewing
now land uses.
2.3.2 Design and implement a
Now Program
City Council, upon
Ongoing
Development
citywide system of bikeways
Planning Commission
review fees
and pedestrian trails as
recommendationfor
non-polluting circulation
General Plan
alternatives.
Objective 2.4 Cooperate with and encourage local educational, governmental, and private
organizations in the development and use of new energy technologies that are deemed
environmentally safe.
2.4.1 Maintain open communication Existing
Building Official
Ongoing
General fund
with other local, regional, state Program
or federal agencies regarding
the evaluation of current energy
problems and state-of-the-art
technologiesand practices.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -IU -12
.... ......
. ...... ..... ...... .. .
01,10 -f
j:�;x�x:x:::
................
2.4.2 Emphasize fuel efficiency and
Existing
City Manager's office
Ongoing
General fund;
the use of alternative fuels in
Program
Capital
the acquisition and use of City-
improvement
owned vehicles and fleet
funds
vehicles of City franchisees;
support programs which would
serve to enhance or encourage
the use of public transit
systems.
i. Cooperate with the South
Coast Air Quality
Management Agency in
the development and local
testing of new alternative
fuels or other energy
programs.
2.4.3 Participate with local
Now Program
Community
Ongoing
General fund;
organizationson rescarchand/or
Development
development
the development of alternate
Director; Building
review fees
energy sources, including
Official; City
cogeneration, photovoltaic,
Engineer
biomass, waste to energy, wind,
etc.
2.4.4 investigate the potential for
New Program
Community
Complete
General fund;
adding provisions in the
Development Director
study within I
development
Development Code to require
year of
review fees
industrial and/or commercial
General Plan
projects to be sited to facilitate
adoption; if
photovoltaicand/orcogencration
feasible
units.
prepare
regulations
within 6
months
thereafter
impacts wastes
Objective 2.5 Minimize the environmental acts Of landfill disposal Of solid through an
aggressive public education and information campaign designed to promote a
comprehensive program of source reduction, recycling, composting, and household
hazardous waste reduction activities.
2.5.1 Develop and implement a
Existing
City Manager's office
Ongoing
General fund
Source Reduction and Recycling
Program
Element according to the
guidelines established by State
law and the California
Integrated Waste Management
Board.
2.5.2 Develop and implement a
Existing
City Manager's office
Complete plan
General fund
Household Hazardous Waste
Program
within I year
Element according to the
of General
guidelines of the California
Plan adoption
Integrated Waste Management
Board. Incorporatethis element
into the Plan for Resource
Management of the General
Plan.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -111-13
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL. PLAN IMPLEMENTATIONAND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -III 14
.'
:...... TWW
°
2.5.3 Reduce wasteful packaging of
New Program
City Manager's office
Ongoing
General fund
products sold in the City
through educational and
technical assistance which
emphasizes the reduction of
non-recyclable products,
replacement of disposable
materials with reusable
materials, and the purchase of
repairable products.
2.5.4 Implement a mandatory
New Program
City Manager'soffice
Initiate within
General fund;
Citywide recycling program
1 year of
franchise fees
including residential curbside
General Plan
collection and voluntary on-site
adoption
programs serving multi-family,
commercial and industrial
generators.
2.5.5 Educate residential, commercial
New Program
City Manager's office
Initiate
General fund
and industrial generators about
information
source reduction and recycling
within 1 year
programs and encourage their
of General
participation by developing a
Plan adoption;
promotional campaign which
ongoing
informs than about diversion
thereafter
programs, identifies
opportunitiesfor participation in
such programs, and provides
motivational incentives to
increase participation.
2.5.6 Require commercial and
Existing
Community
Ongoing
Development
industrial generators to develop
Program
Development
review fees
and implement a source
Director;
reduction and recycling plan
development review
tailored to their individual waste
bodies
streams.
2.5.7 Promote the reduction of the
Existing
City Manager's
Ongoing
General fund
amount of yard watt generated
Program
office; Parks and
by public and private residences
Recreation Director;
through ongoing promotion of
Parks Commission
greenwaste by on-site
composting of leaves and other
organic materials in a manner
that is safe and clean.
2.5.8 Designate City held open space
New Program
City Council, upon
Ongoing
General fund
and public facilities as "green
Parks Commission
zones" and conduct an
recommendation;
aggressive pursuit of existing
Parks and Recreation
and potential City uses for
Director; Parks
compost produced from locally
Commission
generated yardwaste such as
park and median sites.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL. PLAN IMPLEMENTATIONAND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -III 14
2.5.9 Incressepublicunder"ndingof New Program
methods to reuse materials in
their everyday lives. Encourage
the provision of educational
materials on the environmental
damage of disposable products
and materials.
2.5.10 Reduce the disposal of Existing
household hazardous wastes in Program
landfills through continued
cooperation with the County
Sanitation Districts and the Los
Angeles County Department of
Public Works on implementation
of a Countywide household
hazardous waste management
City Manager's office
City Engineer
Ongoing
Ongoing
General fund
General fund;
development
review fees
program.
Objective 2.6 Pursuant to Government Code 65302(d) & (e), the Conservation Element and the
!]non .annro Fl~nt will be prepared.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MOMTORING PROGRAM MMP III -15
MAY 5, 1995
2.6.1 The ResourceManagementPlan
will be developed in
coordination with any
Countywide water agency plans
in conjunction with County,
District or City agencies. This
ResourceManagementPlan will
cover:
• Reclamation of land
and water
• Prevention control of
pollution in stream
and other waters
• Regulation of the use
of land in stream
channels
• Protection of
watersheds
• Flood control
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MOMTORING PROGRAM MMP III -15
MAY 5, 1995
IV. PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY
-IT IS THE OVERALL GOAL OF THE PLAN TO PROVIDEA SAFE AND HEALTHYENVIRONMENT
FOR THE RESIDENTS OF DIAMOND BAR. "
GOAL I. "Consistent with the Vision Statement, create a secure public environment which
minimizes potential loss of life and property damage, as well as social, economic,
or environmental disruption resulting from natural and manmade disasters."
Objective 1.1 Minimize the potential for loss of life, physical injury, and property damage from
seismic groundshaking and other geologic hazards
1.1.1 Requite that new emergency facilities
including but not limited to fire
stations, paramedic services, police
stations, hospitals, ambulance
services, and emergency operations
centers be designed to withstand and
remain in operation following the
maximum credible earthquake event.
1.1.2 As required by the Uniform Building
Code, require site-specific
geotechnical investigation be
performed to determine appropriate
design parameters for construction of
public and private facilities in order
to minimize the effects of any
geologic and seismic hazard on such
1.1.3 Adopt a grading manual to
supplement the City of Diamond Bar
Grading Code with detailed
information regarding rules,
interpretations, standard
specifications, procedures,
requirements, forms, and other
information applicable to control
excavation, grading, and earthwork
construction and provide guidelines
for preparation of geotechnical
reports in the City.
Existing
Program
Existing
Program
Building Official
Community
Development
Director; Building
Official;
development review
bodies
Ongoing
Ongoing
Development
review fees
Development
review fees
Objective 1.2 Minimize the potential for loss of life, physical injury, property damage, Public health
hazards, and nuisances from the effects of a 100 -year storm and associated flooding.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5,1995
1.2.1 As a prerequisite to new development
Existing
City Engineer
Ongoing
Development
review fees
or the intensification of existing
Program
Director;
Consolidated Fire District has the
development, ensure that a drainage
development review
opportunities to review the proposal
bodies
study has been completed by a
hazard and its potential source as a
qualified engincer, certifying that the
source of fire. Ensure that Fire
Department recommendations
proposed development will be
regarding mitigation of fire hazard
adequately protected, and that
implementation of the development
proposal will not create new
downstream flood hazards.
1.2.2 In coordination with the Los Angeles
New Program
City Engineer
Initiate master
plan within 2
General fund;
Development
County Public Works Department,
years of
review fees
develop and maintain a master plan
General Plan
of drainage, including an inventory of
existing facilities, and present
adoption
development plans, to adequately
assess existing and future flood
control needs and improvements
within Diamond Bar.
1.2.3 Prepare a capital improvement
Existing
City Engineer
Ongoing
General fid;
Development
program for flood control
Program
review fees
improvements needed to complete a
master plan of drainage. This
schedule will be coordinated with
improvement plans by the County and
address funding and timing of
prioritized improvements.
Objective 1.3 Require that properties in and adjacent to wildland areas are reasonably protectedfrom
wildland fire hazards without degrading the viability of natural ecosystems, providing
a balance between removal of flammable vegetation, introduction of fire resistant
vegetation, and preservation of natural vegetation.
1.3.1 Where development is proposed
Existing
Community
within areas potentially subject to
Program
Development
wildland fire hazards, ensure that the
Director;
Consolidated Fire District has the
development review
opportunities to review the proposal
bodies
in terms of its vulnerability to fire
hazard and its potential source as a
source of fire. Ensure that Fire
Department recommendations
regarding mitigation of fire hazard
risks are addressed.
Ongoing
Development
review fees
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5,1995
1.3.2 Require new development in areas New Program Community Ongoing Development
subject to wildland fire to be Development review fees
adequately protected in a manner Director,
which minimizes the destruction of development review
natural vegetation. Prioritize this bodies
balance as follows:
• Protection of existing developed
areas and areas currently
approved for development.
• Preservation of significant
biological resources to the extent
feasible.
Objective 1.4 Require that an adequate distribution of fire stations, equipment, and manpower, and
maintain a maximum five minute response time to all urban areas.
1.4.1 Work with the Los Angeles County
New Program
Community
Complete fee
analysis and
General fund;
Development
Consolidated Fire District to establish
a funding mechanism which would
Development
Director
present to
review fees
ensure that cost of providing new
City Council
facilities and equipment, including
within 1 year
of General
paramedic services, to support new
Plan adoption
development is assessed against the
developments creating that need.
1.4.2 Where appropriate, support increased
Existing
Building Official
Ongoing
eral fund;
FDo:velopff
entby
protection levels from that provided
Program
ew fees
the minimum fire standards
included in the Uniform Building and
Fire Codes (UBC and UFC).
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5,1995
Objective 1.5 Minimize the risk and fear of crime through physical planning strategies. Create a high
level of public awareness and support for crime prevention.
1.5.1 Refer proposals for new Existing Community Ongoing Development
development, where appropriate, and Program Development review fees
for the intensification of existing Director,
development to the Sheriff's development review
Department for review. bodies
1.5.2 Promote the establishment of
Existing
City Manager's
Ongoing
General fund
neighborhood watch and business
Program
office
watch program to encourage
community participation in the patrol
of neighborhood and business areas,
and to facilitate increased awareness
of potential criminal activities.
Objective 1.6 Promote the provision of adequate medical and emergency services to Diamond Bar
residents.
1.6.1 Coordinate with appropriate agencies
Existing
City Manager's
Ongoing
General fund
for the provision of evacuation and
Program
office
ambulance services within acceptable
service levels and response times.
1.6.2 Investigate the need and feasibility of
New Program
City Manager's
Complete
General fund
locating a major medical facility
office
investigation
within the City of Diamond Bar.
within one
year of
General Plan
adoption
Objective 1.7 Implement effective emergency preparedness and response programs.
1.7.1 Coordinate the City's disaster Existing City Manager's Ongoing General fund
preparedness plans with the State Program office
Office of Emergency Management,
County, schools, and other
neighboring jurisdictions, and
participate in the development of a
regional system to respond to daily
emergencies and major catastrophes.
1.7.2 Integrate the City's disaster plan and
community resources into municipal
emergency management, including a
list of local resources such as
personnel, equipment, material,
specialized medical and other
training, and auxiliary
communications.
1.7.3 Provide areawide mutual aid
agreements and communication links
with adjacent governmental
authorities and other participating
jurisdictions.
Existing
Program
Existing
Program
City manager's
Office
City Manager's
office
Ongoing
Ongoing
General fund
General fund
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5,1995
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5,1995
1.7.4 Disseminate public information
Existing
City Manager's
Ongoing
General fund
regarding actions which residents and
Program
office
businesses should take to minimize
damage in a natural disaster, as well
as actions which would be taken to
facilitate recovery from a natural
disaster.
Objective 1.8 Protect life and property from the potential detrimental effects (short and long term) of
the transportation, storage, treatment, and disposal of hazardous materials and wastes
in the City.
1.8.1 Coordinate with the established Los
New Program
City Manager's
Establish
General fund
Angeles County program for house-
office
Prom
hold hazardous waste collection
within 1 year
according to the provisions of Section
of General
41500 of the Public Resources Code
Plan adoption
(see also the solid waste section of
the Plan for Resource Management
for additional policies).
1.8.2 Coordinate emergency response
Existing
City Manager's
Ongoing
nd
personnel to respond to hazardous
Program
office
materials incidents.
1.8.3 Require development to meet the
New program
City Engineer
Ongoing
und;
ent
requirements of the County's urban
HtecWques.
stormwater discharge permit.
Objective 1.9 The City should seek to improve local and regional air quality by encride-
sharing, use ofpublic transit, and other transportation demand managemques.1.9.1
Promote the provision of non-
New Program
CityEngineer
Ongoing
(Geral nn 'polluting
transportation alternatives
es
such as a citywide system of
bikeways and pedestrian sidewalks.
1.9.2 Work with the South Coate Air
Existing
Community
Ongoing
Development
review fees
Quality Management District to
Program
Development
establish a program of District review
Director;
and comment on major proposed
development review
development projects within the City.
bodies
1.9.3 Implement the provisions of the
Existing
Community
Ongoing
General fund;
Development
South Coast Air Quality Management
Program
Development
review fees
Plan; review projects for consistency
Director,
with the South Coast Air Quality
development review
Management Plan.
bodies
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5,1995
1.9.4 Include trip reduction requirements
New Program
Community
Complae
for
General fund'
Development
consistent with SCAQMD Regulation
Development
Director; City
ordinance
public
review fees
XV and the requirements of the Los
Angeles County Congestion
Council, upon
Wings
Management Plan in the development
Planning
within six
code with the goal of reducing home-
Commission
months of
to -work trips by facilitating and
recommendation
General Plan
participating in the following
adoption
programs:
• Incorporate design measures into
new development end, where
feasible, into existing
developments proposed for
intensification, including
preferential parking areas for car
and van pools, employee drop
off areas, secure bicycle parking
areas, bus turnout areas, etc.
• Disseminate information to
Diamond Bar residents
regarding the advantages of, and
procedures involved in, ride
sharing and public transit.
1.9.5 Ensure that site designs facilitate
Existing
Community
Ongoing
Development
review fees
rather than discourage pedestrian
Program
Development
movement between nearby uses.
Director;
development review
bodies
1.9.6 Require grading plans to include
Existing
Building Official;
Ongoing
Development
review fees
appropriate and feasible measures to
Program
Community
minimize fugitive dust.
Development
Director;
development review
bodies
1.9.7 Cooperate with the South Coast Air
New Program
City Manager's
Ongoing
None required
Quality Management District to be a
office
"test facility" or a laboratory for
testing new air pollution control
programs where such programs can
be safely conducted at no expense to
the City or its residents.
1.9.8 The City will offer to local
New Program
City Manager's
Ongoing
None required
governmental agencies, educational
office
institutions, and businesses the
opportunity to test new technologies
and/or programs designed to reduce
air pollution, either directly or
indirectly.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5,1995
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.
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 65 dB CNEL noise
corridors, ensure that necessary
reduction measures are applied to
meet adopted interior and exterior
noise standards.
1.10.3 New construction, including additions
and remodels exceeding 25% of
original floor area, shall not be
permitted to cause the exterior CNEL
level of surrounding residential
neighborhoods to exceed those limits
stated in Table IV -1, or to
significantly, adversely affect the
existing CNEL of those
neighborhoods.
1.10.4 Natural noise barriers, such as
hillsides, shall not be modified or
removed without evaluating noise
impacts to surrounding residential
neighborhoods.
1.10.5 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 demonstrated
empirical mitigation measures to
ensure that adopted noise standards
within sensitive land use areas are not
exceeded as the result of the proposed
project. Mitigation measures shall be
verified by field measurements after
construction. Prior to occupancy, if
the required level of mitigation is not
achieved, further corrective action
will be required.
New Program
New Program
Existing
Program
New Program
Existing
Program
Community
Development
Director,
development review
bodies
Community
Development
Director,
development review
bodies
Community
Development
Director;
development review
bodies
Community
Development
Director; City
Council, upon
Planning
Commission
recommendation
Community
Development
Director,
development review
bodies
Ongoing Development
review fees
Ongoing Development
review fees
OngoingI Development
review fees
Complete
General fund;
ordinance
Development
provisions
review fees
within 6
months of
General Plan
adoption
Ongoing
Development
review fees
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5,1995
....:
1.10.6 As pact of the Development Code,
Community
Ongoing,
General fund;
Development
adopt noise -related development
New Program
Development
annual
review fees
standards.
Director
Existing
Community
Ongoing
General fund;
Development
1.10.7 Where possible, encourage reduction
of existing noise problems within
Program
Development
review fees
existing development where adopted
Director;
noise standards are being reached or
development review
exceeded. The City shall demand
bodies
that the State of California install
noise attenuation facilities in all noise
sensitive areas impacted by County,
State or Federal highways.
1.10.8 As part of future General plan
review, or every five years, the noise
contour map shall be updated.
1.10.9 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.
1.10.10 Locate land uses to buffer residential
uses from noise and activity caused
by non-residential uses or
streets or highways
and site buildings to
serve as a noise
buffer. Refer to the
Land Use section to
insure a smooth
transition between
residential and non-
residential uses.
1.10.11 Ensure that land uses are located so
as to meet the following standards.
(see Table IV -1 Noise Standards). If
new construction does proceed, a
detailed analysis of noise reduction
requirements must be made and
needed noise insulation features
included in design.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5,1995
1.10.12 Where new development exceeds the
standards outlined within Table IV -1,
a detailed analysis of noise reduction
requirements must be made and
needed noise insulation features
included in design.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5,1995
V. CIRCULATION
"IT IS THE OVERALL GOAL OF THE PLAN TO PROVIDE A SAFE, ADEQUATE AND
ENVIRONMENTALLYSENSITIVETRANSPORTATIONSYSTEMTOMEETTHE CIRCULATIONNEEDS
OF THE CITIZENS OF DIAMOND BAR. "
9trat ...
......: .......:. ;8
GOAL 1 Consistent with the Vision Statement, enhance the environment of the City's
street network. Work toward improving the problems presented by the
intrusion of regionally oriented commuter trait through the City and into
residential neighborhoods. Consider programs to reinforce the regional
transportation and circulation system to adequately accommodate regional
needs.
Objective 1.1 Participate in local and regional transportation related planning and decision-
making.
1.1.1 Preclude the connection of
Existing
City Council, upon
Ongoing
General Fund;
roadways from adjacent
Program
Planning
Development
jurisdictions into the City
Commission and
review fees
unless demonstrable benefits to
Traffic and
Diamond Bar residents and
Transportation
businesses am indicated.
Commission
recommendation
1.1.2 In reviewing transportation
Existing
City Council, upon
Ongoing
General Fund;
improvements, maintain a
Program
Planning
Development
clear distinction between local
Commission and
review fees
and regional objectives.
Traffic and
Transportation
Commission
recommendation
1.1.3 Ensure the opportunity for
Existing
Engineering
Ongoing
General fund;
public comment on major
Program
Department;
development
changes in operational
development review
review fees
characteristics of the
bodies
circulation system.
1.1.4 Initiate regional traffic
New
City Council, upon
Ongoing
General fund;
mitigation efforts with the
program
Planning
development
cities of Brea and Chino Hils
Commission and
review fees
by forming a task force,
Traffic and
assisted by technical personnel
Transportation
to evaluate alternative travel
Commission
corridors through the easterly
recommendation
portion of the sphere of
influence.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -V-1
1.1.5 Work with neighboring
Existing
City Council, upon
Ongoing
General fund;
communities to encourage the
Program
Planning
development
ongoing efforts to complete
Commission and
review fees
existing projects and possible
Traffic and
improvements to existing
Transportation
infrasstmctures such ss:
Commission
recommendation
(a) Completion of SR -30
(b) Upgrade of SR -71 to
freeway standards
(c) Additional lanes on SR -
60; and
(d) Increasing the roadway
capacity of SR 142 -
Carbon Canyon Road.
1.1.6 Continue to week support for
Regional State Transportation
Improvement Program
(RSTIP) projects as proposed
by the City of Diamond Bar
such as:
(a) Encourage modification
of the SR57/SR60
interchange;
(b) Support construction of
HOV lanes on SRyO,
from SR57 north to San
Bernardino County;
(c) Support construction of
HOV lanes on SR 760,
from Brea Canyon Road
to SR57 north;
(d) Support construction of
HOV lanes on SR57,
from Orange County to
SR60;
(e) Pursue additional Park &
Ride facilities east of the
City.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -V-2
1.1.7 The City should encourage the
efforts of other jurisdictions
and agencies to complete the
work on other circulation
Projects outside of Diamond
Bar that will positively effect
Diamond Bar's traffic
conditions. These projects
include:
(a)
Completion of SR30;
(b)
Upgrade of SR71 to
General fund;
freeway standards;
(c)
The construction of
Soquel Canyon Road
communities and incorporate
extension to SR57;
(d)
Pursue development
review fecs
of additional lanes
on SR60 easterly of
the City; and
(e)
Improve the capacity
Transportation
of State Route 142,
Carbon Canyon
Road.
1.1.8 Coordinate the use of land use
New
City Council, upon
Ongoing
General fund;
policies from neighboring
Program
Planning
development
communities and incorporate
Commission and
review fecs
all existing traffic data
Traffic and
including improvements and
Transportation
proposal for the regional
Commission
circulation system.
recommendation
1.1.9 Encourage improvements to
regional routes and arterial
streets to be sensitive to
environmentally, aesthetic and
noise concerns and provide
adequate buffers to adjacent
land uses.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -V-3
1.1.10 Through the use of the
provisions of the California
Health and Safety Code,
Division 24, Parts 1, 1.5 and
1.7, pursue a comprehensive
and, if possible, coordinated
effort with the City of Industry
and the State of California to
upgrade the one mile stretch
of freeway carrying the SR57
and SR60; and upgrade the
interchanges of Brea Canyon
Road and the SR60; Grand
Avenue and the SR57/60; and
Diamond Bar Boulevard at the
SR57 north and south; and the
widening of Golden Springs
Drive.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -V4
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -V-5
Objective 1.2 Balance the need for optimum traffic flow on Cuy arterials within economic realities,
environmental, and aesthetic considerations.
1.2.1 Prepare programs for traffic
Existing
Engineering
Ongoing
General fund
control measures including,
Program
Department
but not limited to, additional
stop signs at problem
intersections, timing of stop
lights, and regulation of speed
limits.
1.2.2 Maintain flexibility in the
Existing
Engineering
Ongoing
General fund;
cross sections and
Program
Department
development
configuration of streets within
review fees
topographically rugged or
environmentally sensitive
ares.
1.2.3 Pursue other traffic measures
Existing
Engineering
Ongoing
General fund;
to enhance circulation and
Program
Department
development
transient traffic movements.
review fees
Objective 1.3 Maintain the integrity of residential neighborhoods. Discourage through traffic.
1.3.1 Prevent the creation of new
Existing
City Council, upon
Ongoing
General funds;
roadway connections which
Program
Planning
development
adversely impact existing
Commission and
review fees
neighborhoods.
Traffic and
Transportation
Commission
recommendation;
Engineering
Department
1.3.2 Implement traffic control
Existing
City Council, upon
Ongoing
General funds;
programs in 1.2.1 to reduce
Program
Planning
development
and divert through traffic.
Commission and
review fees
Traffic and
Transportation
Commission
recommendation;
Engineering
Department
1.3.3 Design new developments and
Existing
City Council, upon
Ongoing
Development
their access points in such a
Prognun
Planning
review fees
way that the capacity of local
Commission and
residential streets is not
Traffic and
exceeded.
Transportation
Commission
recommendation;
Engineering
Department
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -V-5
1.3.4 Minimize impacts of roadways
serving proposed future the
Diamond Ranch high school
site on surrounding residential
neighborhoods.
1.3.5 The City should implement
strong measures to maintain
the integrity of the Sunset
Crossing Road and other
residential areas at the western
City limits by cul -de -sating
Sunset Crossing Road and
retaining the cul -de -sating of
Ly -ming, Washington and
Beaverhead Streets.
New City Council, upon
Program Planning
Commission and
Traffic and
Transportation
Commission
recommendation;
Engineering
Department
Ongoing I Development
review fees
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -V-6
.......': ....... .: .....
.:..:.
#...
..:.
..: .. ...
GOAL 2 Provide a balanced transportation system for the safe and etrkient movement of people, goods
and services through the City.
Objective 2.1 Maximize the use of alternative transportation modes within and through the 0 y to decrease
reliance on single passenger automobiles.
2.1.1 Maximize the availability and
Existing
City Council
Ongoing
General fund
use of public transit service.
Program
2.1.2 Investigate the feasibility of
New
Planning Department
Ongoing
General fund
establishing a local transit
program
system. Support privately
funded local transit systema
for seniors and youths.
2.1.3 Support mixed-use
Existing
Planning
Ongoing
General fund;
developments to maximize
Program
Department;
development
transportation efficiency.
development review
review funds
bodies
2.1.4 Pursue a cooperative effort
Existing
Planning Department
Ongoing
General fund
with Caltrans and regional
Program
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
Existing
Planning Department
Ongoing
General fund
carpools through the used of
Program
City publications and public
displays.
2.1.6 Coordinate to the extent
New
Planing Department
Ongoing
General fund
possible with neighboring
program
cities in the development of a
Transportation Demand
Management (TDM) plan.
2.1.7 Work with Caltrans to build
Existing
Planning Department
Ongoing
General fund
new park-and-ride sites, and
Program
expand existing park-and-ride
facilities.
2.1.8 Maintain, expand and upgrade
Existing
Paries and Reemation
Ongoing
General fund;
the system of bicycle routes
Program
Commission; Parka
Development
connecting residential areas to
Director
fees
major community attractions
utilizing current City design
guidelines. Upgrades of the
current system will include
investigative means to improve
signing and masking of
bikeways. The City shall
develop a master plan of
bikeways.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -V-7
.::: ; ......................
:...
. ' ......::
.. .
2.1.9 Pursue a cooperative joint
Existing
City Engineer
Ongoing
General fund
agencies program to provide
Program
access for Diamond Bar
residents to a regional light
rail system.
2.1.10 Lobby Caltrans to provide
Existing
City Engineer
Ongoing
General fund;
HOV lanes on local freeways.
Program
Development
fees
2.1.11 Explore the feasibility of
Existing
Pada and Recreation
Ongoing
General fund;
interconnected of public
Program
Commission; Parks
Development
equestrian trails.
Director
fees
2.1.12 Explore the feasibility of
interconnected public hiking
trails.
Objective 2.2 Maximize connection of all areas within the City through the circulation system.
2.2.1 Work to ensure that any new
Existing
Planning
Ongoing
General fund;
development is provided with
Program
Department;
development
adequate access from within
development review
review fees
the City of Diamond Bar.
bodice
2.2.2 Through the roadway system,
New
Planning
Ongoing
Development
ensure that new development
Program
Department;
review fees
within the Tres Hermans
development review
Ranch property is integrated
bodies
into the community of
Diamond Bar.
2.2.3 Work with Pomona Unified
School District to provide
secondary access to the future
Diamond Ranch High School.
2.2.4 Coordinate with Pomona
Unified School District and
City of Industry & Urban
Development to insure timely
design and construction of
secondary access to the future
Diamond Ranch High School.
GOAL 3 Consistent with the Vision Statement, maintain an Adequate Level of Service on Area Roadways.
Objective 3.1 Improve the safety and effidency of existing transportation facilities.
3.1.1 Maintain level of service C or
Existing
Engineering
Ongoing
General fund
better at arterial mid-block
Program
Department
segmenta (average daily) and
D or better during peak hours
at signalized intersections to
the extent possibly
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONaomG PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -V-8
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -V-9
..:..''
3.1.2 Improve arterial mid-block
Existing
Engineering
Ongoing
Ge neral fund
segments to provide average
Program
Departrnent
daily service levels of "C" or
better to prevent use of local
and collector streets as
alternate routes
3.1.3 Improve intersections in the
Existing
Engineering
Ongoing
General fund
City which have peak hour
Program
Department
traffic service levels worst
than "D"; where feasible,
these improvements should be
made within existing
right-of-way.
3.1.4 Maintain a pavement
New
Engineering
Ongoing
General fund
management system and
Program
Department
maintenance program for all
public roadways throughout
the City.
3.1.5 Develop a signal system
New
Engineering
Establish
General fund;
management system and
Program
Department
system
roadway
maintenance program for all
within five
improvement
traffic signals throughout the
years of
funds;
City.
General
development
Plan
review fees
adoption
3.1.6 Consider all opportunities to
Existing
Planning
Ongoing
General fund;
expand and maintain
Program
Department;
development
pedestrian access routes
development review
review fees
throughout the City.
bodies
3.1.7 Synchronize signals on all
New
Engineering
Ongoing
General fund;
major roads throughout the
Program
Department
development
City of Diamond Bar (See
review fees
Circulation Element Figure V-
2) and adjacent communities.
Objective 3.2 Explore all availabk opportunities and mechanisms for fi-ring trawportadon improvements.
3.2.1 All new development shall be
Existing
Planning
Ongoing
Development
required to provide mitigation
Program
Department;
review fees
measures. Such messures
development review
could include improvements or
bodies
traffic impact fees.
3.2.2 Solicit State and Federal funds
Existing
City Council; Traffic
Ongoing
General fund
to improve area freeways to
Program
and Transportation
eliminate use of local streets
Commission;
as part of the freeway system.
Engineering
Department
3.2.3 Consider implementing a
New
Engineering
Determine
General fund
traffic impact fee system.
Program
Department
feasibility
within one
year of
General
Plan
adoption
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -V-9
3.2.4 Develop a regional financing
New
Engineering
Planning
Determine
General fund
mechanism(s) to assess new
Program
Department
feasibility
occupancy vehicles wherever
development for the cost of
development review
review fees
within one
mitigating traffic impacts.
year of
4.1.2 Consider reductions in parking
Existing
General
Ongoing
General fund;
in exchange for transportation
Program
Department;
Plan
development
demand management
development review
adoption
programs.
3.2.5 Consider the use of a "toll New Engineering Determine General fund
road" to finance and maintain Program Department feasibility
the environmentally sensitive within one
transportation corridor. year of
General
Plan
adoption
3.2.6 Continue to solicit State,
Federal and other funds to
improve local streets.
II GOAL 4 Consistent with the Vision Statement, provide or Regulate the Provision of the Supply of Parking II
to Meet the Needs for Both Residents and Commerdal Btu.
Objective 4.1 Ensure compliance with the Southern California Air Quality Management District Regulation IS trip
reduction requirements.
4.1.1 Regulate the provision of
Existing
Planning
Ongoing
General fund;
preferential parlang for high
Program
Department;
development
occupancy vehicles wherever
development review
review fees
possible.
bodies
4.1.2 Consider reductions in parking
Existing
Planning
Ongoing
General fund;
in exchange for transportation
Program
Department;
development
demand management
development review
review fees
programs.
bodies
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL. PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -V-10
II Objective 4.2 Provide adequate panting for all types of land use within die City of Diamond Bar. II
4.2.1 Use existing parking demand
data sources to update City
Code requirements pertaining
to parking, particularly the
provision of sufficient parking
for land uses generating a high
demand for parking.
4.2.2 Encourage school districts to
improve parking and loading
facilities for public schools to
minimize the impact on the
circulation system.
4.2.3 Establish parking requirements
for housing to a level
consistent with the occupants
transportation needs.
4.2.4 Strengthen off-street parking
codes for new residential
development in order to
increase the number of off-
street parking spaces.
Existing
Program
New
Program
Engineering
Department
Traffic and
Transportation
Commission;
Engineering
Department
Ongoing
Ongoing
General fund
General fund
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -V-11
VI. PUBLIC SERVICES AND FACILITIES
,IT IS THE OVERALL GOAL OF THE PLAN THAT THE CITY ACQUIRE AND MAINTAIN ADEQUATE
RESOURCES TO MEET THE NEEDS OF ITS RESIDENTS "
. ... ...... ..
.......... M:0 ...........
.... ....... ...... ... .......
..Al' ....... ft
.. ... - A
......
GOAL 1. "Provide adequate infrastructure facilities and public services to support development and
planned growth."
Objective 1.1 Maintain adequate systems for water supply and distribution; wastewater collection,
treatment, and disposal; solid waste collection and disposak and energy distribution which
are capable of meeting the needs of the residents of Diamond Bar.
1.1.1 Prior to permitting a major extension
Existing
Community
Ongoing
Development
of services or utilities to facilitate
Program
Development
review fees
changes in land use, conduct a
Director; development
thorough review of all social,
review bodies
economic, and environmental factors
associated with that extension; require
the implementation of appropriate
mitigation measures.
1.1.2 Protect existing residents and
Existing
City Council;
Ongoing
Development
businesses from the cost of financing
Program
developmentreview
review fees
infrastructure aimed at supporting new
bodies
development or the intensification of
development.
1.1.3 Require the construction of water,
Existing
City Engineer;
Ongoing
Development
sewer, drainage and other necessary
Program
developmentreview
review fees
public facilities prior to or concurrent
bodies
with each new development.
1.1.4 Require the project sponsor to provide
Existing
City Engineer;
Ongoing
Development
all necessary infrastructure
Program
development review
review fees
improvements (including the pro rats,
bodies
share of system -wide improvements).
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 N9%4P-VI-1
1.1.5 Coordinate the long-term provision of
utility services, including water,
wastewater, sewage, electricity, natural
gas, solid waste, etc. to assure
adequate future levels of services for
City residents.
(a) MonitorplansbytheMetropolitan
Water District and City of
Industry to locate a water
reservoir in upper Tonner
Canyon.
(b) Support development of
appropriately sited,
environmentally sensitive, solid
waste treatment facilities which
do not impact resident's quality of
life.
1.1.6 Require all new housing subdivisions
be connected to a public sewage
system.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 M]MP_VI-2
`=.........
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...;
Objective 1.2 Establish and implement comprehensive and equitable solutions to the financing of public
facilities and services.
1.2.1 Establish a development fee structure
New Program
City Council, upon
Complete fee
General fund;
which best assures that costs for new
recommendationsof
structure
development
capital facilities and expansion of
City commissions
within 1 year
review fees
existing facilities necessitated by the
of General
approval of new development or
Plan adoption
intensification of existing development
are funded by the proponents or
beneficiariesof projects, in proportion
to the demand created by the
development.
1.2.2 Investigate and, if feasible, initiate the
New Program
Community
Complete
General fund;
establishment of a redevelopment
Development director;
investigation
development
agency in the City of Diamond Bar to
City Engineer;
within 6
review fees
facilitate the mitigation of traffic and
Finance Director
months of
circulation deficiencies, the financing
General Plan
of public improvements and other
adoption;
similar tasks.
implement
findings within
1 year
thereafter
Objective 1.3 Ensure that all Diamond Bar residents have access to high quality local educational
facilities, regardless of their socioeconomic status or location within the City.
1.3.1 Continue a cooperative program with
Existing
Community
Ongoing
Development
the Pomona Unified School district to
Program
Development
through
review fees
construct a high school in the City of
Director; development
adoption and
Diamond Bar on the Tres Hermanos
review bodies
implementation
Ranch. As part of high school
of Tres
development, pursue development of a
Hermanos
major joint use recreational facility
Specific Plan
(e.g., auditorium, pool, ball fields,
and
(football/soccer*nniscourts, stadium,
constructionof
gymnasium).
high school
1.3.2 Work closely with the Walnut Valley
Existing
Community
Ongoing
General fund;
and Pomona Unified School Districts
Program
Development
through
development
on an ongoing basis to resolve issues
Director; Parks and
implementation
review fees
such as joint use of facilities, location
Recreation Director;
of parks
of new facilities, and alternative use of
City Manager'soffice
master plan
vacant or unused sites.
1.3.3 Encourage joint development of
recreational facilities with the local
school districts.
1.3.4 Enable, through appropriatezoningand
development regulations or with a
Conditional Use Permit, the
construction and operation of private
school facilities.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -VI -3
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -VI -4
Objective 1.4 Enable, through appropriate zoning and development regulations, the provision of cultural
facilities, such as educational institutions, museums, and performing arts facilities, to meet
the needs of Diamond Bar residents.
1.4.1 Pursue the acquisition of a site and
Existing
Parks and Recreation
Identify site
General fund;
development of a civic center,
Program
Director, perks
within 6
development
including a multi-use community
Commission
months of
review fees
center.
General Plan
adoption;
identify
finance
mechanism
within 1 year
thereafter
1.4.2 Monitor plans of the University of
Existing
City Manager's office
Complete
General fund
California to locate new campuses in
program
initial
Diamond Bar.
discussions
with UC and
CSUC within
6 months of
General Plan
adoption;
ongoing
thereafter
1.4.3 Work with Log Angeles County to
New Program
Parks and Recreation
Ongoing
General fund;
insure adequate library services are
Director
development
provided.
review fees
1.5 Stimulate opportsnitiesfor a population which is diverse in terms of age, occupation, income, race, interests, and religion to
interact, exchange ideas, and estabUsh and realize cormnon goals.
1.5.1 Retain and provide community social
gathering places, including active and
natural park lands and one or more
community centers. In private
commercial and office complexes
encourage the development of plaza
areas.
1.5.2 Maintain a public information program
to inform residents of community
events.
(a) Whenever possible, establish
permanent locations and regular
dates for community events to
improve attendance.
(b) Encourage a "Community
Calendar" as part of the local
cable television programming to
inform residents about the times
and locations of upcoming
community events.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -VI -4
1.5.3 Within new residential developments,
encourage organization of individual
neighborhoods and discourage through
traffic on local streets while
maintaining pedestrian and bicycle
continuity and encourageneighborhood
parks, improvement programs and
social events.
GOAL 2. "Consistent with the Vision Statement, achieve a fiscally solvent, financially stable community."
Objective 2.1 Provide sufficient opportunities for retail and other nonresidential commercial and office
uses as necessary to maximize municipal income to finance desired community amenities.
2.1.1 Promote the intensification of the sales
Existing
City Manager's
Ongoing
General fund;
tax generating potential of existing and
Program
office; Community
development
future commercial areas within the
Development
review fees
city.
Director; development
review bodies
2.1.2 Work with State officials and local
Existing
City Council; City
Ongoing
General fund
elected representatives to make a
Program
Manager's office
determined effort to promote statewide
legislationthat would secureguaranteed
long-term stable financing of local
government based primarily upon
property tax revenues. Alternatively,
support legislation that would
redistribute sales tax revenues to local
agencies based upon an equitable
formula that would include both the
location where the sales tax revenue
was collected and the population of
each local agency involved.
2.1.3 Pursue the expansion of municipal
Existing
City Council, upon
Ongoing
General fund;
boundaries to areas which can be
Program
Planning Commission
development
utilized to assist in the provision of
recommendation
review fees
sufficient municipal income to provide
the high level of services and facilities
demanded by Diamond Bar residents.
2.1.4 Utilize public costImefitand/or fiscal
New Program
Community
Initiate
General fund;
impact analysis in the review of new
Development
development
development
development proposals and in
Director; Finance
of model
review fees
determining acceptability.
director
within 6
months of
General Plan
adoption;
complete
model within 4
months
thereafter
Objective 2.2 Promote efficiency in the provision of public services and facilities.
DIAMOND BAR GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MMGATION MONITORING PROGRAM
MAY 5, 1995 MMP -VI -5
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RESOLUTION NO. 95 -XX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
BAR ADOPTING THE 1995 GENERAL PLAN
DIAMOND BAR
A. Recitals.
THE CITY OF DIAMOND
FOR THE CITY OF
(i) The City of Diamond Bar previously initiated
proceedings to adopt a general plan (111992 General Plan") pursuant
to Title 7, Division 1 of the California Government Code Sections
65360 and 65361.
(ii) In 1990 a General Plan Advisory Committee was
formed to provide the community with an opportunity to participate
in the creation of the City of Diamond Bar's 1992 General Plan and
to make recommendations with respect to the specific components of
the 1992 General Plan. Numerous study sessions and duly noticed
public hearings were held by the Planning Commission and the City
Council of the City of Diamond Bar from July 1991 through July
1992.
(iii) Pursuant to the California Environmental
Quality Act of 1970, as amended, and the Guidelines promulgated
thereunder ("CEQA"), a Draft and Final Environmental Impact Report
was prepared and considered to address the environmental effects
of the 1992 General Plan, the mitigation measures related to each
significant environmental effect of the 1992 General Plan, the
project alternatives and a Mitigation Monitoring Plan.
(iv) On July 30, 1991, copies of the draft 1992 General
Plan were mailed to affected agencies pursuant to Government Code
Section 65352.
(v) On July 14, 1992 the City Council adopted
Resolution No. 92-44 adopting the 1992 General Plan and adopted
Resolution 92-43 certifying the Final Environmental Impact Report
for the 1992 General Plan.
(vi) On or about August 10, 1992, a referendum petition
,seeking the repeal of Resolution No. 92-44 was submitted to the
City Clerk of the City of Diamond Bar. The city Clerk certified
the sufficiency of the signatures on the referendum petition
pursuant to a court order and presented such certification to the
City Council.
(vii) On March 16, 1993 the City Council adopted
Resolution No. 93-15 repealing Resolution No. 92-44, the
resolution which adopted the 1992 General Plan.
12
(viii) In March of 1993 the City Council directed the
retention of a consultant team to develop a new general plan
(111993 General Plan"). Opportunities for public participation
were provided throughout the program of creating the 1993 General
Plan. Five community workshops were held with City residents to
identify key planning issues and to discuss potential general plan
policy options. the results of those workshops were summarized and
forwarded to the City Council for its consideration.
(ix) On May 19, 1993, the City Council began the public
hearing process to adopt a general plan. The City Council held
duly noticed public hearings on May 19, 1993, May 26, 1993, June
2, 1993, June 9, 1993, and June 16, 1993, whereby public testimony
was received with respect to all elements of the draft 1993
General Plan.
(x) Because substantial modifications to the draft 1993
General Plan were being considered, the City Council, pursuant to
Government Code Section 65356, referred the review of the draft
1993 General Plan to the Diamond Bar Planning Commission for its
recommendations. On June 23, 1993 the Planning Commission held a
study session to consider the draft 1993 General Plan. On June
28, 1993 the Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public
hearing to consider and receive public testimony on the draft 1993
General Plan. The Planning Commission considered all the evidence
presented and submitted a written recommendation to the City
Council to adopt the draft 1993 General Plan, with various
modifications.
(xi) On June 29, July 6, July 13, July 20 and July
27, 1993 the City Council conducted additional duly noticed public
hearings. In the course of these public hearings, the City
Council received and deliberated upon written and oral testimony.
(xii) On July 27, 1993 the City Council adopted
Resolution No. 93-57 and 93-58 certifying the adequacy of the
Addendum to the General Plan Environmental Impact Report and
adopting the 1993 General Plan.
(xiii) On August 24, 1993 a referendum petition seeking
the repeal of Resolution No. 93-58 was submitted to the City Clerk
of the City of Diamond Bar. The City Clerk certified the
sufficiency of the signatures on the referendum petition pursuant
to a court order and presented such certification to the City
council.
(xiv) On December 14, 1993 the City Council adopted
Resolution No. 93-80 repealing Resolution No. 93-58, the
resolution which adopted the 1993 General Plan.
(xv) In January of 1994 a new General Plan Advisory Committee
(GPAC) was formed to develop a new General Plan (111995 General
Plan"). The GPAC held fifteen noticed public meetings between
January 11, 1994 and June 30, 1994 in order to develop the 1995
13
General Plan. The results of the GPAC efforts and its
recommendations were forwarded to the Planning Commission for its
review and recommendation to the City Council.
(xvi) The Planning Commission conducted thirteen public
hearings between July 11, 1994 and October 17, 1994 to review the
GPAC recommended General Plan. The Planning Commission considered
the GPAC recommendations, received public testimony and initiated
additional changes through the course of their review. On October
17, 1994 the Planning Commission forwarded its recommendations to
the City Council.
(xvii) On November 22, 1994 the City Council began the
public hearing process to adopt the 1995 General Plan. The City
Council held duly noticed public hearings on November 22, 1994,
November 29, 1994, January 9, 1995, January 16, 1995, January 24,
1995, January 31, 1995, February 6, 1995, February 13, 1995,
February 16, 1995, February 23, 1995, February 28, 1995, and March
6, 1995 whereby public testimony was received with respect to all
elements of the draft 1995 General Plan. The City Council
considered the GPAC and planning Commission recommendations,
received public testimony and initiated changes through the course
of its review.
(xviii) On April 4, 1995 the City Council, pursuant to
Government Code Section 65356, referred the 1995 General Plan to
the Planning Commission for its recommendations. On April 10, 1995
the Planning Commission conducted a noticed public meeting,
received public testimony, considered and commented upon City
Council modifications to the 1995 General Plan. The Planning
Commission submitted a written report and recommendation to the
City Council to adopt the 1995 General Plan, with modifications.
(xix) On May 9, 1995 the City Council conducted an
additional duly noticed public hearing. In the course of this
public hearing the City Council received and deliberated upon
written and oral testimony.
(xx) The Final Environmental Impact Report previously
prepared for the 1992 General Plan adequately addresses all of the
significant environmental impacts associated with the 1995 General
Plan. Therefore, an Addendum was prepared and considered in
accordance with CEQA. The City Council considered the information
contained in the Final Environmental Impact Report and the
Addendum thereto ("Final EIR") prior to approval of the 1995
General Plan.
(xxi) The City Council considered, individually and
collectively, the six elements comprising the 1995 General Plan,
the related appendices and the Final EIR. The 1995 General Plan
incorporates the seven mandatory elements established in
Government Code Section 65302 into six components, specifically:
14
a. The Land Use Element;
b. The Housing Element;
C. The Resource Management Element (Open Space
and Conservation Elements);
d. The Public Health and Safety Element (Noise
and Safety Elements);
e. The Circulation Element;. and
f. The Public Services and Facilities Element
(xxii) In its review of the 1995 General Plan and the
Final EIR, the City Council fully considered the impacts upon
landforms and topography, earth resources and seismicity, drainage
and flood control, biological resources, crime and prevention
services, fire hazards and protective services, health and
emergency services, hazardous materials, recreation and open
space, land use, air quality, noise, cultural resources,
socioeconomics (housing), energy systems, circulation/
transportation, educational services, water, wastewater, and solid
waste associated with the further development of the City in
accordance with the goals, policies and programs as more fully
detailed in the 1995 General Plan.
(xxiii) The 1995 General Plan and all of its
constituent parts are properly integrated, internally consistent
and compatible.
(xxiv) The City Council has considered all the
information presented to it, and found and determined that the
public convenience, welfare and good planning practice require the
adoption and implementation of the goals, policies and programs
contained in the 1995 General Plan.
(xxv) All legal prerequisites prior to the adoption
of this Resolution have occurred.
B. Resolution.
NOW, THEREFORE, it is hereby found, determined and
resolved by the City Council of the City of Diamond Bar, as
follows:
1. The City Council of the City of Diamond Bar hereby
specifically finds that all of the facts set forth in the
Recitals, Part A, of this Resolution are true and correct and are
hereby incorporated into the body of this Resolution by reference.
2. Documentation has been prepared in compliance with
CEQA and this City Council has reviewed and considered the
information contained in the environmental documentation,
including the Final Environmental Impact Report, the Addendum and
the Mitigation Monitoring Plan with respect to the 1993 General
Plan, and has determined that such documentation is complete and
adequate.
15
3. The City Council hereby determines that:
(a) The six components of the 1995 Diamond Bar
General Plan, including all appendices, completely address the
mandatory elements, and the mandatory legal contents required
therein, pursuant to California Government Code Section 65302 and
all other applicable statutes. The 1995 General Plan, attached
hereto as Exhibit A, is incorporated herein by this reference as
though set forth in full.
(b) The 1995 General Plan is informational,
readable, and available to the public pursuant to California
Government Code Section 65357.
(c) The six components of the 1993 General Plan,
including appendices, are internally consistent as required by
California Government Code Section 65300.5.
(d) The 1995 General Plan is consistent with State of
California policies, rules, regulations and guidelines.
(e) The 1995 General Plan covers all territory within
the corporate boundaries of the City of Diamond Bar and further,
incorporates all lands outside the corporate boundaries of the
City of Diamond Bar which the City Council has judged to bear a
reasonable relationship to Diamond Bar's planning activities
pursuant to California Government Code Section 65300.
(f) The 1995 General Plan is long term in perspective
pursuant to California Government Code Section 65300.
(g) The 1995 General Plan reasonably addresses all
relevant local issues and concerns currently identified.
4. The City Council of the City of Diamond Bar hereby finds
that adoption of the 1995 General Plan will generate social,
economic and other benefits which clearly outweigh the unavoidable
adverse environmental impacts, as specified in the Statement of
overriding Considerations set forth in Exhibit A of Resolution No.
95 -XX -
5. The City Council of the City of Diamond Bar hereby
finds that the 1995 General Plan for the City of Diamond Bar was
prepared in accordance with California State Planning and Zoning
Law, particularly Title 7, Chapter 3 of the California Government
Code and the General Plan Guidelines promulgated by the Governor'
s Office of Planning and Research.
6 . The City Council hereby approves and adopts the
1995 General Plan, attached hereto and incorporated herein by
this reference as Exhibit A, as the General Plan of the City of
Diamond Bar.
7. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of
this Resolution.
ADOPTED AND APPROVED this of
1995.
16
I, LYNDA BURGESS, City Clerk of the City of Diamond Bar,
do hereby certify y that the foregoing Resolution was passed,
adopted and approved at a regular meeting of the City Council of
the City of Diamond Bar held on the day of , 1995, by the
following vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ABSTAINED: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ATTEST
Lynda Burgess, City Clerk
City of Diamond Bar
17
ADDENDUM NUMBER 2
TO FINAL EIR FOR THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
1995 GENERAL PLAN
APRIL 1995
PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF ADDENDUM NUMBER 2 TO THE FINAL FIR
Section 15164 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines
states the following:
"(a) The lead agency or responsible agency shall prepare an addendum to a
previously certified EIR if some changes or additions are necessary
but none of the conditions described in Section 15162 calling for
preparation of a subsequent EIR have occurred.
(b) An addendum to an adopted declaration may be prepared if only
minor technical changes or additions are necessary.
(c) An addendum need not be circulated for public review but can be
included in or attached to the final EIR or adopted negative
declaration.
(d) The decision-making body shall consider the addendum with the final
EIR or adopted negative declaration prior to making a decision on the
project.
(e) A brief explanation of the decision not to prepare a subsequent EIR
pursuant to Section 15162 should be included in an addendum to an
EIR, the lead agency's required findings on the project, or elsewhere
in the record. The explanation must be supported by substantial
evidence."
Addendum Number 2 to the Diamond Bar General Plan Final EIR has been prepared
in response to modifications made to the General Plan considered at the time the
Final EIR was certified. Addendum Number 1, which was prepared for the 1993
version of the Plan, was certified by the City Council on July 27, 1993. Addendum
Number 1 is no longer a valid document since that version of the General Plan was
rescinded.
For purposes of this Addendum (Addendum Number 2), the General Plan proposal
analyzed in the 1992 Final EIR and the proposed 1995 General Plan will be
discussed. The planning area addressed in the General Plan is comprised of the
1
corporate limits of the City of Diamond Bar plus the City's Sphere of Influence
(SOI).
The Final EIR for the General Plan stands as a certified document that analyzes a
proposed project (a General Plan) for the City of Diamond Bar in accordance with
CEQA Guidelines Section 15121 (Informational Document), which states: "An EIR
is an informational document which will inform public agency decision makers and
the public generally of the significant environmental effect of a project, identify
possible ways to minimize significant effects, and describe reasonable alternatives to
the project."
The environmental impacts associated with the modifications included in the 1995
General Plan will not alter the findings made in the original resolutions certifying
the Final EIR and Addendum Number 1. This finding is based on the following,
pursuant to the CEQA Guidelines, Section 15162:
(1) No substantial change is proposed in the 1995 General Plan, or with respect to
the circumstances under which the General Plan will be undertaken, which will
require major revisions of the previous EIR due to the involvement of new
significant effects or a substantial increase in the severity of previously identified
significant effects; and
(2) No new information of substantial importance shows that the proposed General
Plan will have one or more significant effects, or more severe significant effects, not
discussed in the previous EIR; or that any mitigation measures or alternatives
previously found not to be feasible, or which are considerably different from those
analyzed, would in fact be feasible and would substantially reduce one or more
significant effects, but the City of Diamond Bar declines to adopt the mitigation or
alternative.
The analysis contained in this document concludes that the environmental effects of
the proposed 1995 Diamond Bar General Plan are consistent with the conditions
described in CEQA Section 15162, and an Addendum to the Final EIR is
appropriate and necessary. No public review or additional recirculation of the Final
EIR or Addendum is required.
4
INTRODUCTION
Final FIR for the 1992 General Plan
The Diamond Bar City Council adopted and approved Resolution 92-43 on July 14,
1992, which certified the Final EIR for the 1992 Diamond Bar General Plan. In
Resolution 92-43, the City Council found that the Final EIR identified all significant
environmental effects of the 1992 General Plan and that there was no known
potential environmental impact not addressed in the Final EIR. Furthermore, the City
Council identified the following significant impacts which could have occurred due
to implementation of the 1992 Plan:
(1)
Biological Resources;
(2)
Transportation/Circulation;
(3)
Air Quality;
(4)
Acoustic Environment;
(5)
Land Use; and
(6)
Public Services and Facilities.
Contained within this same resolution, the City Council also found that the facts
supporting these findings were contained in the Final EIR, the 1992 General Plan
text, and the information provided to the Council during the public hearing
conducted with respect to the 1992 General Plan and the Final EIR. Mitigation
measures, including a Mitigation Monitoring Program, were made a condition of
approval of the 1992 General Plan and are intended to mitigate and/or avoid the
significant environmental effects identified in the Final EIR. The General Plan itself
is a mitigation measure which is intended to mitigate or avoid the significant
environmental effects of development which could otherwise occur without a
planned, comprehensive approach, as embodied in the General Plan goals, objectives,
and strategies.
Proposed 1995 General Plan
Following adoption of the City's first General Plan in 1992, a residents' group
circulated a referendum to reject the Plan. The referendum was qualified to be
submitted to voters. The City Council exercised its option to reconsider the
adoption of the 1992 General Plan and as a result, on March 16, 1993, rescinded its
prior resolution adopting the Plan.
The City Council then directed the preparation of a broad-based community
participation program to encourage and obtain community input into a revised 1993
General Plan. An extensive series of five public workshops (April, May) and nine
public hearings (May, June, and July) were conducted. Workshops and public
hearings were noticed to the community by means of newspaper ads, posters, press
releases, cable television public service announcements, and direct mailings to
approximately 300 persons and organizations. The results of this process were used
in formulating the 1993 General Plan to reflect the community consensus regarding
a vision for the future of the City as described in the City's General Plan.
Subsequent to the adoption of the 1993 General Plan, a citizens group again
presented a referendum petition to the City. The City Council repealed the 1993
General Plan in December 1993.
In January of 1994, the City Council assembled the 38 -member General Plan
Advisory Committee (GPAC) to begin review of the General Plan. The GPAC was
composed of a variety of residents, as well as property owners and developers with
interests within the City, in addition to two members of the City Council. This
group participated in 14 public meetings and one study session which extended over
a six-month period. The GPAC reviewed each element, making significant changes
by placing greater importance on open space retention, hillside preservation, and
improving the quality of life. The results of their deliberations were forwarded to
the Planning Commission for consideration.
The Planning Commission conducted numerous public hearings from July 11 to
October 17, 1994. The City Council held public hearings from November 1994 to
May 1995 to review and consider the General Plan.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
As stated earlier, the Final EIR identified six unavoidable adverse environmental
impacts associated with General Plan implementation. Mitigation measures
identified in the Final EIR will substantially mitigate these significant environmental
effects.
In the following analysis, the six environmental impacts will be discussed for the
General Plan analyzed in the Final EIR, and then reviewed for the 1995 General
Plan. Mitigation measures contained in the Final EIR will be identified along with
any relevant changes incorporated in the 1995 General Plan.
The Final EIR analyzed 20 separate issues, consistent with the environmental
checklist contained in the CEQA Guidelines, to determine the impact of the 1992
General Plan on the environment. The following issues were determined to be
mitigable to less -than -significant levels: landform and topography, earth resources
and seismicity; drainage and flood control; cultural resources; socioeconomics
(housing); crime prevention and services; fire hazards and protective services; health
and emergency services; hazardous materials; recreation and open space; wastewater;
solid waste; and energy systems.
A comparison with the General Plan analyzed in the Final EIR indicates that the
1995 General Plan projects substantially less commercial/industrial development,
fewer vehicle trips, and comparable residential development, and contains more
stringent goals, objectives, and strategies intended to reduce the impacts of
development. The intensity of development permitted by the 1995 Plan will be less
than permitted by the earlier Plan. The impacts previously identified will continue
4
to be mitigable, with no new or greater impacts than those identified in the Final
EIR.
1. Biological Resources
Setting
Several areas that support native plants and animals, including areas of oak, walnut,
and riparian woodlands, are located in the planning area. No specie listed as
threatened or endangered has been identified in the planning area, although possible
presence cannot be entirely discounted (Final EIR, p. IV -5).
The middle portion of Tonner Canyon, within the City's SOI, represents an
important biological resource including sensitive oak, walnut, and riparian
woodlands and sensitive plant and animal species. This area is classified as a
Significant Ecological Area (SEA) by Los Angeles County (Final EIR, p. IV -5).
Final EIR (Impact: Significant but mitigable)
Development will cause the removal of additional native vegetation and extirpation
of additional wildlife that now exists in the planning area. However, development
according to the existing General Plan will preserve significant amounts of open
space that remain within the planning area, and these areas provide the most support
for remaining local plants and animals (Final EIR, p. IV -5).
Development of all lands within the SOI could seriously affect biological resources
in Tonner Canyon. However, the General Plan proposed to maintain the canyon in
the Agriculture/Specific Plan and Planned Development (PD) use categories, and
strict development standards contained in the Plan will preserve existing natural
resources.
As discussed in the Final EIR, most major canyons and hillsides supporting oak,
sycamore, walnut and riparian woodlands will be preserved. Mitigation measures, in
the form of General Plan policies, are included to mitigate development impacts.
General Plan policies related to biological resource include: establishing Open
Space and Park land use designations; maintaining an inventory of open space
commitments; identifying open space resources and funding mechanisms; protecting
hillside areas; recognizing environmental limitations; requiring biological
assessments; including natural open space in projects, preserving hillsides and
natural vegetation in hillside areas; protecting biological resources; minimizing fire
hazards; and, minimizing roadway impacts to natural slopes.
1995 General Plan (Significant but mitigable)
The 1995 General Plan continues to recognize the importance of the remaining open
space and biological resources within the planning area. In addition to the
mitigation measures identified in the Final EIR, some new strategies addressing
preservation of biological resources have been included in the 1995 General Plan.
The 1995 General Plan includes a vision statement that, among other things,
addresses preservation of open space resources, including privately and publicly
owned vacant areas. Significant ecological areas exist within the planning area.
Portions of the 3,591 -acre SOI and abutting lands within the City have been
included in SEA 15 by the County of Los Angeles. SEA 15 is considered to be a
major significant ecological asset to the community. The City will play a proactive
role in the preservation of this resource by assuring that extensive analysis and
review precede any changes from its current uses and possibilities (General Plan, p.
1).
The 1995 General Plan Land Use Element includes strategies for: preserving areas
of scenic and environmental values; protecting resources (water reclamation and
conservation); preserving animal life; requiring a specific plan for the 3,600 -acre
SOI which will protect its unique biological and open space resources; developing
an open space program and a formula for preserving open space as part of the Slope
Density Scale Ordinance; establishing a review and decision making process for any
potential removal of open space dedications; obtaining open space through feasible
acquisition and management techniques (e.g., entitlement review and density
transfer, bond issue, special districts); requiring a master plan for each of the
General Plan's five designated Planned Development areas; clustering development
to preserve open space and natural resources; encouraging the dedication of
additional open space; and emphasizing the preservation of natural landforms and
vegetation.
The 1995 Resource Management Element pursues the strategies of the Land Use
Element further, with strategies specific to: preserving natural hillside areas;
protecting SEA 15, Tonner Canyon, and hills and canyons in Diamond Bar and
adjacent communities; adopting a tree ordinance; participating in environmental
education programs; and developing a system of greenbelts.
The 1995 General Plan Circulation Element establishes a definition for an
"environmentally sensitive transportation corridor." This transportation facility is
defined by characteristics that cause the facility to have minimal impact to the
environment and adjacent ecosystem. The Circulation Element also recommends
evaluating any potential by-pass corridor (e.g., Carbon, Soquel, Tonner canyons) by
working with neighboring cities and using environmentally sensitive methods of
evaluation.
These additional strategies are expected to further lessen impacts on biological
resources as identified in the Final EIR.
0
2. Transportation/Circulation
Setting
The planning area's location at the interchange of major east/west and north/south
freeways (State Routes 60 and 57) and pre -incorporation decisions constrain the
City's ability to substantially modify or expand the existing circulation system.
While the system is adequate for ordinary local traffic requirements, the existing
freeway interchange design forces regional commuter traffic onto local streets
creating extreme congestion during peak travel periods.
Final EIR (Impact. Significant but mitigable)
As part of the City's 1992 Draft Circulation Element, a traffic engineer, DKS
Associates, prepared a Travel Forecast Model to estimate future intersection and
roadway impacts in the planning area. According to the DKS model, buildout of the
planning area will incrementally increase traffic on local roadways as well as routes
that provide regional access. However, most of the anticipated future traffic increase
will result from development outside of the planning area limits, primarily from
areas to the east. Development in areas such as Chino Hills will significantly
increase traffic on local streets, creating more congestion at local intersections that
already exceed an acceptable service level, while also causing more local
intersections to exceed this standard as well (Final EIR, p. IV -38).
To mitigate traffic impacts, the 1992 Plan for Physical Mobility (Circulation
Element) incorporated applicable portions of the Los Angeles County Congestion
Management Plan as required by AB 1791. This plan outlines roadway and other
physical improvements needed to meet regional circulation needs. At present, none
of the roadways identified by the County as part of the Congestion Management
network are within the planning area (Final EIR, p. IV -38).
The Plan for Physical Mobility also includes provisions for transportation demand
management (TDM), which are methods to reduce regional traffic which can
implemented at the local level on new projects and programs (Final EIR, p. IV -38).
The City will implement appropriate Congestion Management and transportation
demand management plans as required by the Los Angeles County Transportation
Commission, as well as applicable regulations of the South Coast Air Quality
Management District (SCAQMD) and the Southern California Association of
Governments (SCAG), as outlined in the Circulation portion of the Plan for Physical
Mobility (Final EIR, p. IV -38).
1995 General Plan (Significant but mitigable)
The Final EIR evaluated the circulation impacts of a General Plan buildout greater
than that proposed in the 1995 General Plan. The commercial/industrial buildout
potential in the Final EIR circulation analysis is 11.2 million square feet, while the
VA
1995 General Plan proposes a commercial/industrial buildout potential of only 7.4
million square feet, or 3.8 million square feet less than what the Final EIR
circulation analysis evaluated. Using forecasts of trip generation (based on the
Institute of Transportation Engineers Trip Generation manual), this reduction in
square footage would reduce citywide traffic by approximately 97,000 vehicle trips
per day. The Final EIR traffic analysis addressed a citywide residential buildout of
20,428 dwelling units, while the 1995 General Plan proposes a comparable 20,818
units, an increase of about 390 units, which would result in approximately 3,000
additional vehicle trips per day. Therefore, citywide buildout under the 1995
General Plan will result in about 94,000 fewer daily vehicle trips than forecast in the
Final EIR circulation analysis.
In addition to the mitigation measures identified in the Final EIR, some new
strategies related to circulation have been included in the 1995 General Plan.
The City recognizes the need for regional solutions to circulation problems caused
by traffic passing through Diamond Bar. The 1995 General Plan states that the City
of Diamond Bar should seek cooperation of adjoining jurisdictions in managing
growth and assigning responsibility for infrastructure improvements to support that
growth. The City is committed to taking the lead in assuring that any proposed
transportation project directly benefits Diamond Bar residents and achieves the goals
of the General Plan.
Additional circulation -related strategies contained in the 1995 General Plan include:
forming a task force with the cities of Brea and Chino Hills to initiate regional
traffic mitigation measures; working with neighboring communities to complete
existing and potential circulation improvements (e.g., complete SR -30, upgrade SR -
71, add lanes to SR -60, increase capacity of SR 142); continuing to seek support for
Regional State Transportation Improvement Program (RSTIP) projects as proposed
by the City; pursuing traffic control measures to enhance circulation and transient
traffic movements (e.g., additional stop signs, timed signals); minimizing impacts of
roadways serving the proposed future Diamond Ranch high school site on
surrounding residential neighborhoods; developing a master plan of bikeways;
exploring the feasibility of interconnected public hiking trails; and synchronizing
signals on all major roads throughout the City and adjacent communities.
These additional strategies will further lessen circulation impacts as identified in the
Final EIR.
3. Air Quality
Setting
The entire South Coast Air Basin, including Diamond Bar, suffers from poor air
quality. Pollutants are not only generated locally within the east San Gabriel Valley,
but are also transported downwind from the Los Angeles Basin. Local ozone levels
have exceeded State standards on over 95 days per year since at least 1986.
Final EIR (Impact: Significant even after implementation of all feasible mitigation
measures)
Ultimate buildout of the planning area will add significant amounts of air pollutants
into the regional air basin, mainly from increased vehicular exhaust and stationary
sources. In addition, construction activities during building will add to the local
pollutant load, mainly in the form of fugitive dust and construction vehicle exhaust.
To mitigate air quality impacts, the Final EIR requires the City to implement all
feasible measures and programs required by the SCAQMD regarding carpooling,
ridesharing, etc. The recent relocation of the SCAQMD offices to Diamond Bar
offers the City unique opportunities to explore new and innovative programs to
improve air quality. In addition, goals and policies in the various elements of the
General Plan will assist in reducing air quality impacts.
1995 General Plan (Impact: Significant even after implementation of all
feasible mitigation measures)
The General Plan Final EIR indicates that ultimate buildout of the planning area will
add significant amounts of air pollutants to the regional air basin. This will still be
the case under buildout conditions for the 1995 General Plan. However, based on
reductions in commercial/industrial square footage and subsequent reductions in
daily vehicle trips compared to what the Final EIR circulation analysis evaluated
(see discussion above for Transportation/Circulation), buildout under the 1995
General Plan is expected to result in about 94,000 fewer daily vehicle trips. Air
pollution from vehicles will be reduced due to fewer trips, and pollution from
construction equipment will be reduced due to less potential commercial/industrial
development.
The strategies identified in the Final EIR intended to reduce air emissions are also
included in the 1995 General Plan. Including these strategies along with lowering
daily vehicle trips and reducing commercial/industrial buildout potential will
incrementally reduce air quality impacts compared to those identified in the Final
EIR, but not below the significant level.
I
4. Acoustic Environment
Setting
The planning area is relatively quiet except for noise corridors created by traffic
located on local roadways and freeways. Noise levels have been estimated along
major roadways based on traffic volumes and the physical configuration of the
streets. The combined State Route 57/60 freeway corridor generates the most noise,
producing a 65 CNEL contour approximately 1,379 feet wide. Daily outdoor noise
levels in areas adjacent or proximate to the local freeways may reach or exceed
acceptable planning noise standards (Final EIR, p. IV -9).
There are several major local roadways that generate 65 CNEL levels beyond the
right-of-way. The only other major sources of local noise are the railroad lines
along the western boundary of the City and infrequent urban sources.
Final EIR (Impact: Potentially significant but mitigable)
Buildout of the planning area will incrementally increase local noise levels primarily
from mobile sources, as local traffic volumes increase. Localized noise levels will
also increase during construction activities. A noise analysis of local roadways was
performed by Endo Engineering. At buildout, local noise levels along major
roadways will increase. While these noise levels are not significant, they could be
potentially significant if sensitive land uses were allowed to be built where exterior
CNEL noise levels exceeded 65 dB (Final EIR, p. IV -10).
Development in the SOI, as proposed in the General Plan, will result in minimal
noise impacts. The Public Health and Safety Element provides guidelines for
adequate setbacks, consideration of noise in site and building design, etc. (Final EIR,
P. IV -10).
1995 General Plan (Impact: Potentially significant but mitigable)
The Final EIR indicates that ultimate buildout of the planning area will
incrementally increase the noise contours as traffic volumes increase. This will still
be the case under buildout conditions for the 1995 General Plan. However, based on
reductions in commercial/industrial square footage and subsequent reductions in
daily vehicle trips compared to what the Final EIR evaluated, buildout under the
1995 General Plan is expected to result in about 94,000 fewer daily vehicle trips.
Noise from traffic will be reduced due to fewer trips, and noise from construction
equipment will be reduced due to less potential commercial/industrial development.
In addition to the mitigation measures identified in the Final EIR, some new
strategies related to the acoustic environment have been included in the 1995
General Plan. New strategies included in the Public Health and Safety Element
address: (1) construction noise limits; (2) the protection of natural noise barriers; (3)
State installation of noise attenuation facilities in noise -sensitive areas impacted by
10
highways; (4) the development of land use transitions as noise buffers; and (5) noise
standards and noise reduction requirements.
The additional strategies noted above will further reduce impacts on the acoustic
environment as identified in the General Plan Final EIR.
5. Land Use
Setting
Existing land uses within the City of Diamond Bar are primarily residential, with
supporting neighborhood commercial centers, freeway frontage retail/commercial,
and newly expanding office and professional uses. These uses are supported by
various roadways and public utility structures. According the California Department
of Finance (1993), the City has a total of 17,813 dwelling units, with the majority
(70.5 percent) being single-family detached units (1995 Housing Element).
Final EIR (Impact: Significant but mitigable)
The Final EIR for the 1992 General Plan examines an ultimate buildout of the
planning area, including converting approximately 1,913 acres of vacant land to
various suburban uses, primarily housing. Also, various areas are designated for
commercial, office, open space, and agricultural uses. Planned development of
several remaining large open space areas, including Tres Hermanos and the south
end of "The Country," would ultimately change the overall character of Diamond
Bar. However, this change need not be viewed as negative if development is
sensitive to natural resources and surrounding land uses (Final EIR, p. IV -7). For
example, the 1992 General Plan designates almost 4,000 acres within the planning
area for open space, recreation, and agriculture. Also, the Land Use Element
contains controls on development to minimize impacts on surrounding land uses, the
natural environment, and infrastructure.
The Final EIR project description anticipates a residential buildout of 23,899
dwelling units and a commercial/office/business park buildout of 6.17 million square
feet.
1995 General Plan (Significant but mitigable)
The 1995 General Plan recognizes that some vacant parcels are suitable for
development while others should be preserved for open space because of their
environmental value. Major components of the "Diamond Bar Vision" are identified
in the General Plan Vision Statement. These are: (1) retention of the rural/country
living community character of Diamond Bar; (2) preservation of open space
resources; (3) reduction of regional traffic impacts on local streets; (4) promotion of
viable commercial activity; (5) provision of well-maintained, attractive housing; and
(6) creation of a community environment.
11
In addition to the mitigation measures identified in the Final EIR, some new
strategies relevant to land use have been included in the 1995 General Plan.
The 1995 General Plan establishes a land use classification system including
residential and commercial designations, and identifies six residential designations.
These designations, including slope density standards, are defined in Land Use
Element Strategy 1.1.1 as follows:
"a. The maximum gross density of Rural Residential is 1.0 dwelling unit
per gross acre (1 du/ac) or less, depending upon the establishment of a
slope density ordinance.
b. Designate existing developed single-family detached residential parcels
as Low Density Residential (RL). The maximum density of such Low
Density Residential parcels is 3.0 dwelling units per gross acre (3
du/ac), or existing density, whichever is greater.
C. Designate existing single family detached subdivisions as Low
Medium Residential (RLM). The maximum density of Low Medium
Residential areas is 5.0 dwelling units per gross acre (5 du/ac), or
existing density, whichever is greater.
d. Designate existing planned townhome, condominium, apartment,
mobile home, and other multiple family residential properties as
Medium Density Residential (RM). Maintain a maximum density of
12.0 dwelling units per gross acre (12 du/ac) within these areas.
e. Designate existing and planned townhome, condominium, apartment,
and other multiple family residential properties as Medium High
Residential (RMH). Maintain a maximum density of 16.0 dwelling
units per gross acre (16 du/ac) within these areas.
f. Designate existing and proposed high density condominium and
apartment developments and other high density properties as High
Density Residential (RH). Maintain a maximum density of 20.0
dwelling units per gross acre (20 du/ac) within these areas.
g. Develop a slope density ordinance which shall be applied to all land
use designations in the City. Such slope density shall reduce the
number of dwelling units otherwise designated for the property as a
function of average slope of the land in question in excess of 25
percent."
The Housing Element contains an 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) three Planned Development areas with a potential for 430 total dwelling
12
units; (2) the Tres Hermanos Planned development, Occupying 800 acres at the
northeast corner of the City; (3) the 3,591 -acre SOI Specific Plan area; and (4) other
vacant parcels (10 or more) found throughout the City. Although other land is
available 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 planning area available for general residential development
could yield an additional 3,005 units (1995 Housing Element), for a residential
buildout of 20,818 dwelling units, a reduction of 3,081 units from the buildout
forecast in the Final EIR. (The traffic analysis in the Final EIR evaluates a slightly
smaller residential buildout of 20,428 dwelling units, but a substantially larger
commercial/industrial buildout of 11.2 million square feet, or 3.8 million square feet
more than what the 1995 General Plan proposes.)
The 1995 General Plan addresses other land use issues, including: (1) providing
"adequate separation and buffering of less active residential uses from more intense
land uses, major streets, and highways"; (2) requiring a specific plan in the SOI to
protect its unique biological and open space resources; (3) minimizing grading to
retain natural vegetation and topography; (4) enacting Development Code provisions
to develop second units on single-family parcels while maintaining single-family
character, neighborhood integrity, and infrastructure capacity (this strategy helps
provide for affordable housing); (5) developing an open space program that will
identify and preserve open space land and rank its importance in coordination with
the Slope Density Scale Ordinance; (6) establishing a review and decision making
process for any potential removal of open space dedications; (7) obtaining Open
Space land through feasible acquisition and management techniques, including
entitlement review and density transfer, bond issues, lighting and landscape districts,
and below-market purchase in exchange for development; (8) designating five
Planned Development areas and requiring a master plan for each; (9) clustering
development to preserve open space and natural resources; (10) integrating
complementary development types (e.g., commercial, residential); and (I1)
calculating citywide development capacities for each land use designation, including
floor area ratio (FAR) for nonresidential development as appropriate.
The overall reductions in buildout potential, and additional controls on new
development, will reduce potential land use and other environmental impacts.
Especially, the designation of the five Planned Development areas and the SOI
Specific Plan area, including the planning and review processes inherent in the
designations, will provide the City with the opportunity to minimize potential
environmental impacts.
Based on the analysis in this Final EIR Addendum Number 2, the changes
considered in the 1995 General Plan will not result in any new or more adverse
impacts not already considered in the Final EIR. The findings adopted by the City
Council in Resolution 92-43 regarding certification of the Final EIR for the General
Plan are considered current and valid for the 1995 General Plan.
13
2. Addendum to Final EIR for the City of Diamond Bar 1993 General Plan. City Council certification:
July 27, 1993, Resolution No. 93-57.
3. City of Diamond Bar Draft General Plan, April _, 1995.
16
things, appropriate design/plan review, minimizing potential hazards, financing of
new public services and facilities, and providing sufficient municipal income to
support services and facilities, planning within natural resource limits, using feasible
technologies to conserve water, using reclaimed wastewater, using drought -tolerant
landscaping materials, and developing a contingency plan for extended drought.
1995 General Plan (Impact: Significant or potentially significant but mitigable)
The Public Services and Facilities Element contained in the 1995 General Plan is
more comprehensive than the 1992 Element. Strategy 1.1.5.b supports development
of appropriately sited, environmentally sensitive, solid waste treatment facilities.
New or modified strategies include: (1) requiring all new subdivisions to be
connected to a public sewage system; (2) investigating and, if feasible, initiating the
establishment of a redevelopment agency; (3) encouraging joint development of
recreational facilities with the local school districts; (4) enabling, through appropriate
zoning and development regulations or with a Conditional Use Permit, the
construction and operation of private school facilities; (5) retaining and providing
community social gathering places, including active and natural park lands,
community centers, and plazas; (6) maintaining a public information program such
as a "community calendar"; (7) encouraging organization of individual
neighborhoods and discouraging through traffic on local streets while maintaining
pedestrian and bicycle continuity, and encouraging neighborhood parks,
improvement programs, and social events; (8) promoting sales tax generation; and
(9) working with State officials and local elected representatives to promote
statewide legislation to secure stable financing of local government, including an
equitable distribution of sales tax revenues.
Residential unit buildout projections contained in the 1995 General Plan Land Use
Element are less than those analyzed in the Final EIR. Also, 1995 General Plan
strategies are more comprehensive. As a result, impacts on public services and
facilities will not be greater than impacts identified in the Final EIR. The strategies
added to the 1995 General Plan are intended to further reduce impacts.
CONCLUSION
Based on the analysis in this Final EIR Addendum Number 2, the changes
considered in the 1995 Diamond Bar General Plan will not result in any new or
more adverse impacts not already considered in the Final EIR.
REFERENCES
City of Diamond Bar General Plan Document 3: Environmental Impact Report. City Council
certification: July 14, 1992, Resolution No. 92-43.
15
2. Addendum to Final EIR for the City of Diamond Bar 1993 General Plan. City Council certification:
July 27, 1993, Resolution No. 93-57.
3. City of Diamond Bar Draft General Plan, April _, 1995.
16
RESOLUTION NO. 95 -XX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND
BAR INCORPORATING RESOLUTION NO. 92-43 BY REFERENCE AND
CERTIFYING THE ADEQUACY OF THE ADDENDUM TO THE GENERAL
PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT AND MAKING FINDINGS
THEREON PURSUANT TO THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
ACT.
A. Recitals.
(i) The City of Diamond Bar previously initiated
proceedings to adopt a general plan (111992 General Plan") pursuant
to Title 7, Division 1 of the California Government Code Sections
65360 and 65361.
(ii) Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality
Act of 1970, as amended, and the Guidelines promulgated thereunder
("CEQA"), a Draft and Final Environmental Impact Report was
prepared and considered to address the environmental effects of
the 1992 General Plan, the mitigation measures related to each
significant environmental effect of the 1992 General Plan, the
project alternatives and a mitigation monitoring program.
(iii) Pursuant to Section 15087 of the California
Code of Regulations, a 45 day comment period was provided to all
affected agencies for review of the Draft Environmental Impact
Report. Written comments were received and were responded to in
the "Response to Comments" contained in the Final Environmental
Impact Report.
(iv) The Planning Commission conducted duly noticed
study sessions on July 22, August 12 and August 26, 1991 to s
consider and receive public testimony with respect to the Draft
Environmental Impact Report prepared for the 1992 General Plan.
The Planning Commission conducted duly noticed public hearings
with respect to the Draft Environmental Impact Report where it
received public testimony and duly considered all testimony on
September 9 and September 23, 1991 and on April 13, April 20,
April 27, May 4, May 11, May 18, May 21, May 26, May 28, June 1
and June 8, 1992.
(v) The Planning Commission reviewed all environmental
documentation comprising the Draft Environmental Impact Report and
found that the documents considered all environmental effects of
the 1992 General Plan, that they were complete and adequate, and
that they fully complied with all requirements of CEQA.
(vi) On June 8, 1992 the Planning Commission recommended
to the City Council that the Draft Environmental Impact Report be
certified as complete and adequate. On June 9, June 26, June 30,
July 7 and July 14, 1992, the City Council conducted duly noticed
1
public hearings to consider and receive public testimony regarding
the Draft and Final Environmental Impact Report.
(vii) On July 14, 1992 the City Council adopted
Resolution No. 92-44 adopting the 1992 General Plan and adopted
Resolution 92-43 certifying the Final Environmental Impact Report
for the 1992 General Plan.
(viii) On or about August 10, 1992, a referendum petition
seeking the repeal of Resolution No. 92-44 was submitted to the
City Clerk of the City of Diamond Bar. The City Clerk certified
the sufficiency of the signatures on the referendum petition
pursuant to a court order and presented such certification to the
City Council. On March 16, 1993 Resolution No. 92-44 was
repealed.
(ix) In March of 1993 the City Council directed the retention
of a consultant team to develop a new general plan (111993 General
Plan"). Opportunities for public participation were provided
throughout the program of creating the 1993 General Plan. Five
community workshops were held with City residents to identify key
planning issues and to discuss potential general plan policy
options. The results of those workshops were summarized and
forwarded to the City Council for its consideration.
(x) On May 19, 1993, the City Council began the public
hearing process to adopt a general plan. The City Council held
duly noticed public hearings on May 19, 1993, May 26, 1993, June
2, 1993, June 9, 1993 and June 16, 1993 whereby public testimony
was received with respect to all elements of the draft 1993
General Plan.
(xi) Because substantial modifications to the draft 1993
General Plan were being considered, the City Council, pursuant to
Government Code Section 65356, referred the review of the draft
1993 General Plan to the Diamond Bar Planning Commission for its
recommendations. On June 23, 1993 the Planning Commission held
a study session to consider the draft 1993 General Plan. On June
28, 1993 the Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public
hearing to consider and receive public testimony on the draft 1993
General Plan. The Planning Commission considered all the evidence
presented and submitted a written recommendation to the City
Council to adopt the draft 1993 General Plan, with various
modifications.
(xii) On June 29, July 6, July 13, July 20 and July
27, 1993 the City Council conducted additional duly noticed public
hearings. In the course of these public hearings, the City
Council received and deliberated upon written and oral testimony
from members of the public, City staff, State agencies, local
agencies, consultants, and Commissions of the City.
(xiii) The Final Environmental Impact Report
previously prepared and certified adequately addresses all of the
significant environmental impacts associated with the 1995 General
2
Plan. Therefore, an Addendum was prepared and considered in
accordance with CEQA. The City Council considered the information
contained in the Final Environmental Impact Report and the
Addendum thereto prior to approval of the 1995 General Plan.
Further, the mitigation measures contained in the Final
Environmental Impact Report which was prepared in connection with
the 1992 General Plan remain current and valid and a revised
Mitigation Monitoring Program ("Mitigation Monitoring Program") is
hereby made a part of the Final Environmental Impact Report for
the 1995 General Plan to ensure implementation of the mitigation
measures identified in the Final Environmental Impact Report.
(xiv In its review of the 1995 General Plan, the Final
Environmental Impact Report and the Addendum, the City Council
fully considered the impacts upon landforms and topography, earth
resources and seismicity, drainage and flood control, biological
resources, crime and prevention services, fire hazards and
protective services, health and emergency services, hazardous
materials, recreation and open space, land use, air quality,
noise, cultural resources, socioeconomics (housing), energy
systems, circulation/transportation, educational services, water,
wastewater, and solid waste associated with the further
development of the City in accordance with the goals, policies and
programs as more fully detailed in the 1995 General Plan.
(xvi)-All legal prerequisites prior to the adoption of
this Resolution have occurred.
B• Resolution.
NOW, THEREFORE, it is hereby found, determined and
resolved by the City Council of the City of Diamond Bar, as
follows:
1. The City Council of the City of Diamond Bar hereby
specifically finds that all of the facts set forth in the
Recitals, Part A, of this Resolution are true and correct and are
hereby incorporated into the body of this Resolution by reference.
2. The Final Environmental Impact Report, prepared
pursuant to CEQA, and certified and adopted in Resolution No. 9243
on July 14, 1992, is hereby incorporated herein by this reference
as though set forth in full in connection with the 1995 General
Plan. The Addendum, prepared pursuant to CEQA, is hereby made a
part of the Final Environmental Impact Report and is hereby
certified and adopted by this City Council in connection with the
1995 General Plan. The environmental findings made in Resolution
No. 92-43 and additional environmental findings, attached hereto
as Exhibit "A," are hereby incorporated by this reference and
adopted.
3• The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of
this Resolution.
ADOPTED AND APPROVED this day of
1995
Mayor
do hereby cerI, LYNDA BURGESS, City Clerk of the City of Diamond Bar,
tify that the foregoing Resolution was passed, adopted
and approved at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of
Diamond Bar held on the day
vote: , 1995, by the following
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ABSTAINED: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
ATTEST
Lynda Burgess, City Clerk
City of Diamond Bar
EXHIBIT A
4
1. The City Council finds that the Final Environmental
Impact Report was certified as being completed in compliance with
the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970, as amended, and
the guidelines promulgated thereunder by Resolution 92-43, adopted
on July 14, 1992. The Addendum to the Final Environmental Impact
Report, prepared in connection with the adoption of the City of
Diamond Bar 1995 General Plan, was completed in compliance with
the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970, as amended, and
the guidelines promulgated thereunder, and is hereby made a part
of the Final Environmental Impact Report. The City Council has
reviewed and considered the information contained in the Final
Environmental Impact Report and Addendum and the Final
Environmental Impact Report and Addendum reflect the independent
judgment of the City of Diamond Bar.
2. This City Council finds that the Final
Environmental Impact Report and Addendum have identified all
significant environmental effects of the 1995 General Plan and
that there are no known potential environmental impacts not
addressed in the Final Environmental Impact Report and Addendum.
This City Council further finds that the Final Environmental
Impact Report and Addendum identify significant individual and
cumulative environmental effects of the project in regard to
landforms and topography, earth resources and seismicity, drainage
and flood control, biological resources, crime and prevention
services, fire hazards and protective services, health and
emergency services, hazardous materials, recreation and open
space, land use, air quality, noise, cultural resources,
socioeconomics (housing), energy systems, circulation/
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transportation, educational services, water, wastewater, and solid
waste. The City Council finds that the Final Environmental Impact
Report and Addendum identify all feasible mitigation measures for
these impacts.
3. The City Council finds that in response to each
significant effect identified in the Final Environmental Impact
Report and Addendum and listed in Section 2, changes or
alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the
General Plan which avoid or substantially lessen the significant
individual and cumulative environmental effects identified in the
Final Environmental Impact Report and Addendum.
4. This City Council finds that the Final
Environmental Impact Report and Addendum have described a range of
reasonable alternatives to the 1995 General Plan which could
feasibly obtain the basic objectives of the General Plan.
Further, this city Council finds that a good faith effort was made
to incorporate alternatives in the preparation of the Draft
Environmental Impact Report and a range of reasonable alternatives
were considered in the review process of the Final Environmental
Impact Report and Addendum and ultimate decisions on the 1995
General Plan. The City Council has evaluated the comparative
merits of the alternatives and rejected them as infeasible for
economic, social or other considerations as set forth in Section 6
of this Resolution, or because such alternatives are not, as a
whole, more environmentally protective than the proposed 1995
General Plan.
5. This City Council finds that although the Final
Environmental Impact Report and Addendum identify certain
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significant unavoidable environmental effects that will result if
the 1995 General Plan is adopted, all significant effects that can
feasibly be mitigated or avoided have been reduced to the extent
feasible by the imposition of mitigation measures contained within
the Final Environmental Impact Report and Addendum and the
Mitigation Monitoring Program and the social, economic and other
benefits of the project outweigh those unavoidable impacts.
Therefore, the City Council finds that the unavoidable
environmental impacts of the 1995 General Plan are acceptable when
balanced against the benefits of the project.
6. This City Council hereby adopts the following
Statement of Overriding considerations:
(a) The City Council finds that while changes or
alterations have been required in, or incorporated into the 1993
General Plan which substantially lessen the significant
environmental effects as identified in the Final Environmental
Impact Report and Addendum, these effects cannot be totally
avoided or reduced to a level of insignificance if the project is
implemented.
(b) To the extent that the 1995 Diamond Bar
General Plan allows the occurrence of significant effects
identified in the Final Environmental Impact Report and Addendum
which cannot be totally avoided or reduced to a level of
insignificance, the City Council has identified specific economic,
ecological, and social reasons to support its action which make
infeasible the project alternatives described in the Final
Environmental Impact Report and Addendum.
7
Although the City Council found in Resolution 9243
that the impacts from implementation of the 1992 General Plan on
biological resources, circulation/transportation, air quality,
acoustic environment, land use, and public services and facilities
may be unavoidable adverse impacts, the City Council now finds,
based on the Final Environmental Impact Report and the Addendum,
that the following unavoidable adverse impacts may occur upon
implementation of the 1995 General Plan:
(i) Air Quality:
a. Short-term air quality impacts
.associated with the construction phases of
development such as from fugitive dust and
construction equipment.
b. Long-term stationary and mobile
source air emission increases.
(c) The economic, ecological and social reasons
which support the adoption of the 1995 General Plan and which make
infeasible the alternatives described in the Final Environmental
Impact Report are set forth below:
(i) The 1995 General Plan will provide for a
community with a balance of land uses and a range of residential
housing types.
(ii) The 1995 General Plan is superior to the
proposed alternatives, including the "no project" alternative, in
that it promotes an environmentally and visually sensitive pattern
of growth, provides for an environmental balance between
development and identified natural resources and promotes superior
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regulations for balancing the requirements of environmental
preservation, safety and economic consideration. (iii) The 1993
General Plan provides a superior ability to preserve the
significant natural resources of the City and its sphere of
influence and will enhance the protection of visually sensitive
areas.
(iv) The 1995 General Plan provides greater
assurances than the alternatives proposed, including the "no
project" alternative, that where development does occur in or
adjacent to visually sensitive areas, such development will occur
in a manner which minimizes effects upon resources.
(v) The 1995 General Plan will assure that
geologic and safety considerations influence the preparation of
development plans and proposals and requires that such
considerations are reflected in each development proposal,
including requirements.for architecture and site design which are
sensitive to the topography and the significant natural resources
of the City and its sphere of influence.
(vi) The 1995 General Plan will encourage a
safe and convenient system of circulation and access which is
responsive to local and regional considerations, and will provide
adequate levels of public services, facilities and utilities which
are properly sequenced to ensure that such necessary public
services, facilities and utilities are in place in conjunction
with development as it occurs in a manner superior to that which
would be provided through the other alternatives, including the
"no project" alternative.
(vii) The 1995 General Plan will promote
the establishment of adequate funding mechanisms in order to
provide identified infrastructure and circulation improvements
which will be required and will be implemented in an equitable
fashion.
(viii) Each alternative analyzed in the
Final Environmental Impact Report, including the "no project"
alternative, produce unavoidable adverse impacts. The 19953
General Plan is superior to each of the alternatives presented,
including the "no project" alternative, in that it minimizes such
unavoidable adverse impacts throughout the City and its sphere of
influence to the extent feasible.
(d) The City Council finds that facts supporting
the above-specified findings are contained in the Final
Environmental Impact Report and Addendum, the 1995 General Plan
text, and the information provided to this Council during the
public hearings conducted with respect to the 1995 General Plan
and the, Final Environmental Impact Report and Addendum. The
mitigation measures which are contained in the Final Environmental
Impact Report and Addendum and the Mitigation Monitoring Program,
are made a condition of approval of the 1995 General Plan and are
intended to mitigate and/or avoid the significant environmental
effects identified in the Final Environmental Impact Report and
Addendum. The 1995 General Plan itself is a mitigation measure
which is intended to mitigate or avoid the significant
environmental effects of development which could otherwise occur
without a planned, comprehensive approach such as the 1995 General
Plan standards, guidelines and regulations.
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7. This City Council hereby specifically finds and
determines that, based upon the findings set forth herein and
changes and alterations which have been incorporated into the 1995
General Plan, the adverse environmental effects of the 1993
General Plan are acceptable.
S. This City Council hereby adopts the Mitigation
Monitoring Program required by Public Resources Code Section
21081.8 and contained in the Final Environmental Impact Report as
an integrated component of the 1995 General Plan and will be
implemented accordingly.
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