HomeMy WebLinkAbout05/26/2020 PLANNING
COMMISSION
AGENDA
May 26, 2020
6:30 PM
CONSISTENT WITH THE GOVERNOR’S LATEST EXECUTIVE ORDER TO STAY
AT HOME, AVOID GATHERINGS AND MAINTAIN SOCIAL DISTANCING, THIS
MEETING WILL BE CONDUCTED TELEPHONICALLY. MEMBERS OF THE
PLANNING COMMISION AND CITY STAFF WILL BE PARTICIPATING VIA
TELECONFERENCE, WHICH IS BEING RECORDED.
YOU CAN PARTICIPATE IN THE MEETING BY VISITING:
HTTPS://ATTENDEE.GOTOWEBINAR.COM/REGISTER/8964650 760831673100
+1 (415) 655 -0060 – Access: 885 -249 -548
Copies of staff reports or other written documentation relating to agenda items are on
file in the Planning Division of the Community Development Department, located at
21810 Copley Drive, and are available for public inspection. If you have questions regarding
an agenda item, please call (909) 839-7030 during regular business hours.
Written materials distributed to the Planning Commission within 72 hours of the Planning Commission
meeting are available for public inspection online at:
http://diamondbarca.iqm2.com/Citizens/Default.aspx
Chairperson Kenneth Mok
Vice Chairperson William Rawlings
Commissioner Naila Barlas
Commissioner Mahendra Garg
Commissioner Raymond Wolfe
In an effort to comply with the requirements of Title II 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 Community Development Department at
(909) 839-7030 a minimum of 72 hours prior to the scheduled meeting.
The City of Diamond Bar uses recycled paper
and encourages you to do the same
City of Diamond Bar
Planning Commission
MEETING RULES
PUBLIC INPUT
The meetings of the Diamond Bar Planning Commission are open to the public. A member of the public
may address the Commission 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 Planning Commission. At this time, the
teleconference moderator will ask callers one at a time to give their name and if there is an agenda item
number they wish to speak on before providing their comment. If you wish to speak on a public hearing
item or commission consideration item, you will then be called upon to speak at that point in the
agenda.
As a general rule, the opportunity for public comments will take place at the discretion of the
Chairperson. However, in order to facilitate the meeting, persons who are interested parties for an item
may be requested to give their presentation at the time the item is called on the calendar. The
Chairperson may limit individual public input to five minutes on any item; or the Chairperson may limit
the total amount of time allocated for public testimony based on the number of people requesting to
speak and the business of the Commission.
Individuals are requested to conduct themselves in a professional and businesslike manner.
Comments and questions are welcome so that all points of view are considered prior to the
Commission making recommendations to the staff and City Council. When speaking, please direct y our
questions and comments to the Commission, not to staff or other members of the public.
In accordance with State Law (Brown Act), all matters to be acted on by the Commission must be
posted at least 72 hours prior to the Commission meeting. In case of emergency or when a subject
matter arises subsequent to the posting of the agenda, upon making certain findings, the Commission
may act on item that is not on the posted agenda.
INFORMATION RELATING TO AGENDAS AND ACTIONS OF THE COMMISSION
Agendas for Diamond Bar Planning Commission meetings are prepared by the Planning Division of the
Community Development Department.
Every meeting of the Planning Commission is recorded and duplicate recordings are available for a
nominal charge.
HELPFUL CONTACT INFORMATION
Copies of Agenda, Rules of the Commission, CDs of Meetings (909) 839-7030
Email: info@diamondbarca.gov
Website: www.diamondbarca.gov
Consistent with the Governor’s latest Executive Order to stay at home, avoid gatherings and
maintain social distancing, this meeting will be conducted telephonically and Members of the
Planning Commission and City staff will be participating via Teleconference. There will be no
physical meeting location.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
PLANNING COMMISSION
May 26, 2020
AGENDA
Next Resolution No. 2020-12
CALL TO ORDER: 6:30 p.m.
PLEDGE OF
ALLEGIANCE:
1. ROLL CALL: COMMISSIONERS: Naila Barlas, Mahendra
Garg, Raymond Wolfe, Vice Chairperson William
Rawlings, Chairperson Kenneth Mok
2. MATTERS FROM THE AUDIENCE/PUBLIC COMMENTS:
This is the time and place for the general public to address the members of the
Planning Commission on any item that is within its jurisdiction, allowing the public
an opportunity to speak on non-public hearing and non-agenda items. At this time,
the teleconference moderator will ask callers one at a time to give their name and if
there is an agenda item number they wish to speak on before providing their comment.
If you wish to speak on a public hearing item or commission consideration item, you will
then be called upon to speak at that point in the agenda
3. APPROVAL OF
AGENDA:
Chairperson
4. CONSENT CALENDAR:
The following items listed on the consent calendar are considered routine and
are approved by a single motion. Consent calendar items may be removed from
the agenda by request of the Commission only:
4.1. Minutes of Planning Commission – May 12, 2020
5. OLD BUSINESS:
MAY 26, 2020 PAGE 2 PLANNING COMMISSION
6. NEW BUSINESS:
6.1 Review of Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Capital Improvement Program (CIP)
- Conformity with the General Plan.
Recommendation: Staff recommends that the Planning Commission
adopt a Resolution finding the proposed Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Capital
Improvement Program in conformance with the General Plan.
6.2 New CEQA Vehicle Miles Traveled “VMT” Transportation Thresholds
RECOMMENDATION: Review the parameters presented for adopting
VMT as the analytical tool in determining a project’s transportation impact
under CEQA; review the thresholds presented by staff to be used as part
of a VMT analysis; and adopt a Resolution recommending the City Council
adopt these parameters and thresholds.
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE
8. PLANNING COMMISSION COMMENTS / INFORMATIONAL ITEMS:
9. STAFF COMMENTS / INFORMATIONAL ITEMS:
10. SCHEDULE OF FUTURE EVENTS:
*Until further notice and consistent with the Governor’s latest Executive
Order to stay at home, all City meetings will be conducted telephonically.
PARKS AND RECREATION
COMMISSION MEETING:
Thursday, May 28, 2020
Cancelled due to lack of business
CITY COUNCIL MEETING: Tuesday, June 2, 2020 – 6:30 pm
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING: Tuesday, June 9, 2020 – 6:30 pm
CITY COUNCIL MEETING: Tuesday, June 16, 2020 – 6:30 pm
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING: Tuesday, June 23, 2020 – 6:30 pm
4th OF JULY HOLIDAY:
Friday, July 3, 2020
In observance of the holiday, city offices
will be closed. City offices will re-open
on Monday, July 6, 2020
MAY 26, 2020 PAGE 3 PLANNING COMMISSION
11. ADJOURNMENT:
TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORTATION
COMMISSION MEETING:
Thursday, July 10, 2020 – 6:30 pm
MINUTES OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
MAY 12, 2020
CONSISTENT WITH THE GOVERNOR’S LATEST EXECUTIVE ORDER TO STAY AT
HOME, AVOID GATHERINGS AND MAINTAIN SOCIAL DISTANCING, THIS MEETING
WAS CONDUCTED TELEPHONICALLY AND PLANNING COMMISSIONERS, CITY
STAFF AND MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC PARTICIPATED VIA TELECONFERENCE.
CALL TO ORDER: Chair/Mok called the meeting to order at 6:32 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Chair/Mok led the Pledge of Allegiance.
1. ROLL CALL: Commissioners: Naila Barlas, Mahendra Garg,
Kenneth Mok, William Rawlings, and Raymond Wolfe
Staff Members Participating: Greg Gubman, Community Development Director; James
Eggart, Assistant City Attorney; Grace Lee, Senior Planner, May Nakajima, Associate
Planner; and Stella Marquez, Administrative Coordinator
2. PUBLIC COMMENTS: None
3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA: As presented.
4. CONSENT CALENDAR:
4.1 Minutes – Regular Meeting – April 28, 2020.
C/Wolfe moved, C/Barlas seconded, to approve the April 28, 2020, Meeting
Minutes as submitted. Motion carried by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONERS: Barlas, Garg, Wolfe, VC/Rawlings,
Chair/Mok
NOES: COMMISSIONERS: None
ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS: None
5. OLD BUSINESS: None
6. NEW BUSINESS: None
7. PUBLIC HEARING(S):
7.1 CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. PL2017-69 – Under the authority of
Diamond Bar Municipal Code Section 22.58, the applicant, Christopher Yoo,
Black & Veatch for Verizon Wireless, requested a Conditional Use Permit to
remove an existing street light pole and replace it with a new small cell wireless
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MAY 12, 2020 PAGE 2 PLANNING COMMISSION
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telecommunications facility consisting of one canister antenna and four remote
radio units (RRUs) mounted on a new 29’-3” high street light pole and, related
underground equipment within the public right-of-way on the southeast corner
of Grand Avenue and Golden Springs Drive.
PROJECT ADDRESS: Public Right-of-Way on Grand Avenue
Adjacent to Golden Springs Drive
Diamond Bar, CA 91765
POLE OWNER: Southern California Edison
2 Innovation Way, 1st Floor
Pomona, CA 91768
APPLICANT: Christopher Yoo
Black & Veatch for Verizon Wireless
5 Peters Canyon Road #300
Irvine, CA 92606
AP/Nakajima presented staff’s report and recommended Planning
Commission approval of Conditional Use Permit No. PL2017-69, based on the
Findings of Fact, and subject to the conditions of approval as listed within the
Resolution.
C/Garg said that since the new pole will be located four feet north of the
existing pole, he wanted assurance that there was a study to make sure the
roadway lighting levels would be the same or better after the repositioning of
the light source.
Chair/Mok opened the public hearing.
Chris Yoo, applicant, said he was speaking in support of the Verizon
application CUP No. PL2017-69 and that Michael Ferrer from Verizon was with
him. He thanked AP/Nakajima for her assistance during this process and
thanked the Commissioners for their time tonight. With respect to C/Garg’s
question and concern, there are no numbers available; however, they are
matching like for like with Southern California Edison’s light. He said
photometric studies can be done if that is required as a condition of approval.
C/Garg responded that he wanted the study done. Mr. Yoo responded that he
would get the information for C/Garg and the Commission as a condition of
approval.
CDD/Gubman explained to C/Garg that the Commission could add conditions
of approval at the time of its motion.
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MAY 12, 2020 PAGE 3 PLANNING COMMISSION
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Chair/Mok closed the public hearing.
C/Barlas said she was pleased to know the service would be approved in the
area of the project and she is okay with the addition of C/Garg’s condition.
C/Wolfe said that while it would not alter his vote to add the condition proposed
by C/Garg, he felt it was unnecessary because he was confident that staff had
addressed that issue during the permit process.
ACA/Eggart offered language for C/Garg’s proposed condition of approval.
C/Barlas moved, C/Garg seconded, to approve Conditional Use Permit
No. PL2017-69, based on the Findings of Fact, and subject to the conditions
of approval as listed within the Resolution, with the addition of a condition to
submit a photometric study demonstrating that the illumination level of the new
street light pole is not materially different from the existing, subject to approval
by the Community Development Director. Motion carried by the following Roll
Call vote:
AYES: COMMISSIONERS: Barlas, Garg, Wolfe, VC/Rawlings,
Chair/Mok
NOES: COMMISSIONERS: None
ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS: None
8. PLANNING COMMISSION COMMENTS/INFORMATIONAL ITEMS:
C/Wolfe said he hoped the stay-at-home orders would be lifted at some point in the
future although he is hearing that LA County may lag behind other local counties in
the region. He wondered if any effort had been put forth to look at reducing the packet
size or creating an electronic packet which would reduce the need to have staff drop
off packets at Commissioners’ houses and reduce copying costs.
9. STAFF COMMENTS/INFORMATIONAL ITEMS:
9.1 Project Status Report.
CDD/Gubman said that as a follow up to C/Wolfe’s question and
recommendation, if any of the Commissioners would prefer an electronic
agenda packet, he would like for them to email him and he will follow up and
make that available to the Commissioners going forward.
CDD/Gubman stated that there are currently two items on the agenda for the
next Commission meeting which is scheduled for May 26 th. Staff will present
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MAY 12, 2020 PAGE 4 PLANNING COMMISSION
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the Capital Improvement Program for FY 2020/21 for a Finding of General Plan
Consistency prior to City Council’s action to adopt the budget for the CIP. In
addition, beginning July 1 there will be a change to the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) regarding traffic impacts. In the past, traffic
impacts to projects have been measured based on traffic congestion and how
much a project results in increases in traffic delays at intersections. Beginning
July 1st that will no longer be an environmental impact under CEQA and
instead, projects will be evaluated in terms of what kind of inducem ent to
vehicle miles traveled the project will result in , which will be explained at the
May 26th meeting by staff with the assistance of the City’s Traffic Consultant
from Fehr & Peers.
10. SCHEDULE OF FUTURE EVENTS:
As listed in the agenda.
ADJOURNMENT: With no further business before the Planning Commission, Chair/Mok
adjourned the regular meeting at 6:57 p.m.
The foregoing minutes are hereby approved this 26th day of May, 2020.
Attest:
Respectfully Submitted,
__________________________________
Greg Gubman
Community Development Director
_______________________________
Kenneth Mok, Chairperson
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PLANNING COMMISSION
AGENDA REPORT
AGENDA ITEM NUMBER: 6.1
MEETING DATE: May 26, 2020
CASE/FILE NUMBER: Review of Proposed FY 2020-2021 Capital
Improvement Program (CIP) for Conformity with
the General Plan
______________________________________________________________________
BACKGROUND:
Each year, prior to the adoption of the City’s annual budget, the Planning Commission
reviews the proposed fiscal year Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for consistency
with the City’s General Plan and adopts a resolution to record its findings. The process
is mandated pursuant to California Government Code Section 65401 (see
Attachment 2).
The COVID-19 pandemic has created uncertainty in revenue streams used to fund CIP
projects. Therefore, the proposed Fiscal Year (FY) 2020-2021 CIP has been limited in
scope and only includes those essential projects that can be accommodated within the
lower than anticipated revenues. A second list of CIP projects has been prepared that
represents other projects that are being deferred. Should the revenue estimates
improve over the course of the year, amendments to the CIP could be presented to the
City Council to advance some or all of the deferred projects.
ANALYSIS:
The proposed FY 2020-2021 CIP is detailed in Attachment 4, and is comprised of the
following expenditures:
CIP FY2020-2021 Expenditures
• Street Improvements $1,460,634
• Traffic Management/Safety Improvements $107,000
• Transportation Infrastructure Improvements $100,000
• Miscellaneous Public Works Improvements $1,441,900
• Parks and Rec. Improvements $212,780
Total: $3,322,314
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR ~ 21810 COPLEY DRIVE ~ DIAMOND BAR, CA 91765 ~ TEL. (909) 839-7030 ~ FAX (909) 861-3117
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These capital improvement projects are funded by various sources: the Road
Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account (SB-1); Measure M; Proposition A; Proposition
C; SB 821 – Bike and Pedestrian Paths (TDA); Quimby Funds; Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) Funds; Mobile Source Air Pollution Reduction
Review Committee (MRSC) Grant funding; the Building and Facilities Maintenance
Fund; and Foothill Transit Grant funding.
Deferred Projects
The proposed Fiscal Year (FY) 2020-2021 Deferred CIP is detailed in Attachment 5,
and is comprised of the following expenditures:
DEFERRED CIP FY2020-2021 Expenditures
• Street Improvements $2,900,000
• Miscellaneous Public Works Improvements $387,000
• Parks and Rec. Improvements $977,720
Total: $4,264,720
These deferred capital improvement projects are funded by various sources: General
Fund reserves; Measure W; SB-1; Measure M; Measure R (Local Return Fund);
Gasoline Tax funds; Proposition C; Measure A; Habitat Conservation Grant funds; cost
reimbursements from City of Industry; FEMA; and the Building and Facilities
Maintenance Fund.
The Public Works Department develops the project list based on identified community
improvement needs. Planning staff finds that the proposed FY2020 -2021 CIP is
consistent with the adopted General Plan 2040’s numerous Goals and Policies,
including, but not limited to, the following:
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENT GOALS & POLICIES
Land Use & Economic Development LU-P-14, LU-P-51
Community Character & Placemaking CC-P-4, CC-P-64
Circulation CR-P-1, CR-P-20, CR-P-26, CR-P-36, CR-P-48
Resource Conservation RC-G-2, RC-G-3, RC-G-7, RC-P-5, RC-P-22
Public Facilities & Services PF-P-18
Public Safety PS-G-12, PS-P-51
Community Health & Sustainability CHS-P-38, CHS-P-41
The full text of the above Goals and Policies are provided in the attached Resolution.
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Capital Improvement Projects
Below is a summary of the various projects proposed under the FY2020 -2021 CIP:
Street Improvement Projects
• Road Maintenance Projects – Grind and overlay, slurry seal or chip seal
maintenance is applied to designated roadways within the City. This type of
maintenance activity is applied annually to residential streets and art erial roadways
on an eight-year cycle per neighborhood to extend the life of the existing road
pavement; and the appropriate pavement markings are re-established (see
Attachment 3). Road Maintenance improvements also include curb ramp upgrades
with sidewalk, curb and gutter repairs as necessary.
o Arterial Street Rehabilitation Diamond Bar Blvd. (Mountain Laurel to Pathfinder) -
Construction is expected to be completed in October 2020. This is a carryover
project from FY2019-2020.
o Residential & Collectors Road Maintenance, Design Only – Area 1, 2, and
arterial roadways (Design began in November 2019 with an estimated
completion in August 2020 and construction phase to begin in August 2020).
This is a carryover project from FY2019-2020.
o CDBG Area 2 ADA Curb Ramp Project – This project will rehabilitate curb ramps
within the boundaries of Area 2. This is a new project for FY2020 -2021 that will
begin after January 1, 2021 with completion prior to the construction of the
Residential and Collector Road Maintenance-Area 2 in July 2021.
o Residential & Collector Road Maintenance – Area 1 (DEFERRED). This is a new
project for FY2020-2021.
o Arterial Street Rehabilitation Golden Springs (Brea Canyon to Lemon)
(DEFERRED) – This is a carryover project from FY2019-2020.
Traffic Management/Safety Projects
• Battery Backup System – To protect against black-outs at signalized intersections
during a power loss, the final eleven intersections in Diamond Bar without the battery
backup system will be retrofitted with auxiliary, battery power. The construction will
be completed in September 2020. This is a carryover project from FY2019 -2020.
Transportation Infrastructure Improvements
• Lemon Avenue Quiet Zone – A quiet zone is a section of rail line, at least one-half
mile in length, that contains one or more consecutive public highway/rail grade
crossings where the use of train horns near the crossings is either eliminated or
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reduced. The Lemon Avenue railroad crossing owned by the Union Pacific Railroad
Company (UPRR) and used by Southern California Regional Rail Road Authority
(Metrolink) is to be studied in mutual effort between the City of Diamond Bar and
City of Industry for a quiet zone designation. Train horns may be sounded in
emergency situations or to comply with Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) rules,
which require that locomotive horns be sounded 15-20 seconds before entering
public highway/rail grade crossings, no more than one-quarter mile in advance, even
within a quiet zone. The study is anticipated to be completed by December 2020.
This is a carryover project from FY2019-2020.
• Bus Shelter Replacement at Golden Springs Road and Calbourne Drive –The City
will capitalize on the Foothill Transit’s Bus Stop Enhancement Program (BSEP)
grant to replace the existing bus shelters and amenities in February 2021. This is a
new project for FY2020-2021.
Miscellaneous Public Works Improvements
• Grand/Golden Springs Intersection Enhancements – As part of the required
mitigation improvements for the development north of the 57/60 confluence area, the
intersection of Grand Ave. and Golden Springs Drive will be widened by the City of
Industry. In conjunction with the widening of the intersection, Diamond Bar will
implement landscape and hardscape elements with decorative traffic signals that
have been incorporated at the Grand Ave/Diamond Bar Blvd., Grand Ave./Longview
Dr. and Diamond Bar Blvd./Brea Canyon Road intersections. Construction is
tentatively to begin in May 2020 with an 18-month construction schedule. This is a
carryover project from FY2019-2020.
• Electric Charging Station at City Hall—This project will install an electric vehicle
charging station at City Hall to be available for City electric vehicles and the public
when possible. The project is being funded by Mobile Source Air Pollution
Reduction Review Committee (MSRC) funds and a match from SCAQMD AB2766
funds. This is a carryover project from FY2019-2020.
• Groundwater Drainage Improvements Phase 3 (DEFERRED) – In FY2014-15, a
Comprehensive Groundwater Drainage Study was completed identifying and
evaluating various roadway locations with groundwater conditions that warrant
drainage improvements. Eleven locations were evaluated as listed below:
o Groundwater under Cold Springs Lane just east of Diamond Ba r Boulevard.
o Groundwater drainage onto Flapjack Drive through the curb core at the end of
the cul-de-sac.
o Ambushers Street groundwater through existing parkway drains.
o Golden Springs Drive sidewalk drainage near Rancheria Road (Northminster
Church)—Completed.
o Brea Canyon Road sidewalk drainage near Sapphire Lane (Edison Pole
Drainage)—Completed.
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o Drainage onto Copley Drive in front of City Hall through the parkway drain.
o 20834 Moonlake drainage through the parkway drain.
o 20532 Calpet drainage through the parkway drain.
o Groundwater under Cleghorn Drive just north of Grand Avenue.
o Brea Canyon Cut-Off at Oak Crest Drive—Completed.
o Seepage and poor surface drainage at 21325 Hipass Drive —Completed.
In the upcoming year, the drainage system for Flapjack Drive (Pha se 3) will be
designed and constructed, contingent on the receipt of Measure W funds. Design
will include adding inlets and storm drain laterals to provide for conveyance of
groundwater into existing storm drain systems.
Facility, Parks and Recreation Improvements
• Design of Canyon Loop Trail – A 1,29 mile trail in the open space adjacent to the
Diamond Bar Center that can be accessed from the Grandview Trail and the Steep
Canyon Trail needs extensive improvements. Design is scheduled for completion b y
the end of 2020 and construction will commence in early 2021 This is a carryover
project from FY2019-2020.
• Construction of Canyon Loop Trail mentioned above (DEFERRED).
• Heritage Park New Roof – The main roof at Heritage Park has reached the end of its
useful life and is scheduled to be replaced during FY2020 -2021.
• Design of DBC Slope Stabilization Project – The slope at Diamond Bar Center has
been moving and needs to be stabilized. Design may begin July 2020 and
construction may commence in early 2021. This is a carryover project from FY2019-
2020.
• Construction of DBC Slope Stabilization Project mentioned above (DEFEERED).
• Sycamore Canyon Creek Repair (DEFERRED)—During the 2017 storm event,
Sycamore Canyon Creek within Sycamore Canyon Park experienc ed severe
erosion. To prevent further erosion, repairs to the creek lining will be performed.
The project is expected to be completed in October 2020. This is a carryover project
from FY2019-2020.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the Planning Comm ission adopt Resolution No. 2020-XX finding
the proposed FY 2020-2021 Capital Improvement Program in conformance with the
City’s General Plan.
PREPARED BY:
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REVIEWED BY:
Attachments:
A. Draft Resolution No. 2020-XX
B. CA Government Code Section 65401
C. Two-Year Slurry Seal Street Moratorium Map
D. FY2020-2021 CIP Project List
E. FY2020-2021 Deferred CIP Project List
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PLANNING COMMISSION
RESOLUTION NO. 2020-XX
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND
BAR, CALIFORNIA, FINDING THAT THE PROPOSED FISCAL YEAR 2020-2021
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (CIP) IS CONSISTENT WITH THE
GENERAL PLAN OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR AND RECOMMENDING
APPROVAL TO THE CITY COUNCIL PURSUANT TO CALIFORNIA GOVERNMENT
CODE SECTION 65401.
A. RECITALS
1. WHEREAS, on April 18, 1989, the City of Diamond Bar was established as a duly
organized municipal corporation of the State of California.
2. WHEREAS, on July 25, 1995, the City of Diamond Bar adopted its General Plan
incorporating all State mandated elements, and portions of the General Plan have
been updated from time to time.
3. WHEREAS, on December 17, 2019, the City of Diamond Bar adopted its
comprehensive update of the General Plan (“General Plan 2040”).
4. WHEREAS, the City Manager of the City of Diamond Bar has prepared a
proposed Capital Improvement Program and Budget for the City’s 2020-2021
Fiscal Year which outlines a program identifying proposed public works
improvement projects to occur during the fiscal year. The projects include, but
are not limited to, street and highway improvements, traffic signal modifications,
and park improvements.
5. WHEREAS, California Government Code Section 65401 requires the Planning
Commission to review proposed public works projects for the ensuing fiscal year
to determine compliance with the City’s General Plan.
6. WHEREAS, on May 26,2020, at a regularly scheduled meeting, the Planning
Commission reviewed and considered the City of Diamond Bar’s proposed Fiscal
Year 2020-2021 Capital Improvement Program, and the projects contained
therein, and concluded said review prior to the adoption of this Resolution.
B. RESOLUTION
NOW, THEREFORE, it is found, determined and resolved by the Planning Commission
of the City of Diamond Bar as follows:
1. This Planning Commission hereby specifically finds that all of the facts set forth
in the Recitals, Part A, of this Resolution are true and correct.
2. Based upon the facts and evidence presented during the Planning Commission
meeting regarding the City’s proposed Fiscal Year 20 20-2021 Capital
Improvement Program, including oral and documentary evidence provided by
City staff, and in accordance with the provisions of California Government Code
Section 65401, the Planning Commission hereby finds as follows:
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PC Resolution No. 2020-XX
(a) The projects identified in the City’s proposed Fiscal Year 2020-2021
Capital Improvement Program, are consistent with the City’s General Plan
2040’s numerous goals and policies adopted December 17, 2019,
including, but not limited to, the following:
(i) Land Use & Economic Development Element
• Policy LU-P-14 – Improve vehicular accessibility, traffic flow, and
parking availability as well as pedestrian and bicycle access and
amenities within office, commercial, and industrial areas.
• Policy LU-P-51 – Provide streetscape and intersection
improvements along Golden Springs Drive to enhance comfort
and safety for all modes of travel and increase accessibility to
and from surrounding areas.
(ii) Community Character & Placemaking Element
• Policy CC-P-4 – Continue to support community identity with
streetscape improvement and beautification projects in both
existing residential areas and commercial centers, as well as
new mixed-use areas that incorporate unified landscaping and
pedestrian amenities. Amenities should include seating, bus
shelters, pedestrian safety treatments such as sidewalk bulb-
outs and widening and improved crosswalks, and city-branded
decorative elements such as street lighting, concrete pavers,
tree grates, and theme rails.
• Policy CC-P-64 – Provide streetscape and intersection
improvements along Golden Springs Drive to enhance comfort
and safety for all modes of travel and increase accessibility to
and from surrounding areas.
(iii) Circulation Element
• Policy CR-P-1 – When redesigning streets, plan for the needs of
different modes by incorporating elements such as shade for
pedestrians, safe pedestrian-friendly crossings/intersections,
lighting at the pedestrian scale, bike lanes, signage visible to
relevant modes, transit amenities, etc.
• Policy CR-P-20 – Implement measures such as additional signal
timing and synchronization, speed limit regulations, and ITS
techniques to increase safety and reduce congestion. Maintain
a pavement management system and maintenance program for
all public roadways throughout the City.
• Policy CR-P-26 – As opportunities arise, coordinate with other
jurisdictions, including neighboring cities, Los Angeles County,
San Bernardino County, and Caltrans, on improvements to street
6.1.a
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3
PC Resolution No. 2020-XX
segments common to the City of Diamond Bar and other
jurisdictions.
• Policy CR-P-36 – Where appropriate, plant street trees and
provide landscaping along major pedestrian and bicycle routes
to provide shade and barriers between cyclists and motorists, as
well as enhance aesthetics.
• Policy CR-P-48 – As opportunities arise, coordinate with Foothill
Transit to maintain and improve bus stops and shelters, as well
as identify areas where service can be improved or expanded to
increase system use.
(iv) Resource Conservation Element
• Goal RC-G-2 – Seek to link the various elements of the open
space network through the development of an integrated
system of trails and greenways.
• Goal RC-G-3 – Preserve to the extent possible open space
ridgelines, hilltops, and prominent slopes for aesthetic,
biological and natural resource conservation, and safety
purposes.
• Policy RC-P-5 – Link parks, open spaces, and regional hiking
trails with a trail network where feasible, acknowledging
topographical constraints and other barriers. Incorporate
existing trails and bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, working
with willing landowners to prioritize land acquisition where
necessary. Where possible, incorporate landscaping and
enhance natural features to create greenways along the trail
network.
• Goal RC-G-7 – Protect waterways—including creeks, riverines,
artesian springs, seeps, and wetlands—and watersheds in
Diamond Bar from pollution and degradation as a result of urban
activities.
• Policy RC-P-22 – Protect and, where feasible, enhance or
restore the City’s waterways and drainages, preventing erosion
along the banks, removing litter and debris, and promoting
riparian vegetation and buffers.
(v) Public Facilities & Services Element
• Policy PF-P-18 – Where feasible, link parks, open spaces, and
regional hiking trails with a trail network. Incorporate existing
trails and bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, working with
willing landowners to prioritize land acquisition where
6.1.a
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4
PC Resolution No. 2020-XX
necessary. Where possible, incorporate landscaping and
enhance natural features.
(vi) Public Safety Element
• Goal PS-G-12 – Support measures to reduce noise emission by
motor vehicles, aircraft, and trains.
• Policy PS-P-51 – Coordinate with the Union Pacific Railroad and
other agencies and private entities to consider the
implementation of a railroad quiet zone and other methods of
reducing railroad noise impacts on surrounding noise-sensitive
uses along the Union Pacific Railroad line adjacent to the city.
(vii) Community Health & Sustainability Element
• Policy CHS-P-38 – Promote the adoption of rooftop and
parking lot solar power and/or other alternative energy usage
on developed sites in Diamond Bar through actions such as:
a. Establishing incremental growth goals for solar
power/alternative energy systems in Diamond Bar;
b. Developing guidelines, recommendations, and examples
for cost-effective solar and/or other alternative energy-
based installation; and
c. Installing solar/alternative energy technology on existing
City facilities.
• Policy CHS-P-41 – Support the use of clean fuel and “climate
friendly” vehicles in order to reduce energy use, energy cost,
and greenhouse gas emissions by residents, businesses, and
City government activities.
(b) The proposed projects comply with all other applicable requ irements of
State law and local ordinances, regulations, and standards; and
(c) The proposed Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Capital Improvement Program is
found to be Categorically Exempt from the provisions of the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), under Se ction 15301 of the CEQA
Guidelines (operation, repair, maintenance of existing facilities).
3. Based on the findings and conclusions set forth above, this Resolution shall serve
as the Planning Commission’s report to the City Council regarding the General
Plan conformity of the proposed public works projects in the City’s Fiscal Year
2020-2021 Capital Improvement Program as required by California Government
Code Section 65401.
6.1.a
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5
PC Resolution No. 2020-XX
The Planning Commission shall:
(a) Certify as to the adoption of this Resolution; and
(b) Forthwith transmit a certified copy of this Resolution to the City Council of the City
of Diamond Bar for use in its deliberations regarding the City’s budget.
ADOPTED AND APPROVED THIS 26th DAY OF MAY, 2020, BY THE PLANNING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR.
______________________________
Kenneth Mok, Chairman
I, Greg Gubman, Secretary of the Planning Commission of the City of Diamond Bar, do hereby
certify that the foregoing Resolution was duly introduced, passed, and adopted, at a regular
meeting of the Planning Commission held on the 26th day of May, 2020, by the following vote
to wit:
AYES: Commissioners:
NOES: Commissioners:
ABSENT: Commissioners:
ABSTAIN: Commissioners:
ATTEST: ______________________________
Greg Gubman, Secretary
6.1.a
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CALIFORNIA GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 65401
Review of Capital Improvement Projects for Conformity with the General Plan
If a general plan or part thereof has been adopted, within such time as may be fixed by
the legislative body, each county or city officer, department, board, or commission, and
each governmental body, commission, or board, including the governing body of any
special district or school district, whose jurisdiction lies wholly or partially within the
county or city, whose functions include recommending, preparing plans for, or
constructing, major public works, shall submit to the official agency, as designated by
the respective county board of supervisors or city council, a list of the proposed public
works recommended for planning, initiation or construction during the ensuing fiscal
year. The official agency receiving the list of proposed public works shall list and classify
all such recommendations and shall prepare a coordinated program of proposed public
works for the ensuing fiscal year. Such coordinated program shall be submitted to the
county or city planning agency for review and report to said official agency as to
conformity with the adopted general plan or part thereof.
6.1.b
Packet Pg. 21
ZONE
AREA 7*
AREA 6*
AREA 5
AREA 4
AREA 3
AREA 2
AREA 1B
AREA 1A
TREATMENT YEAR
2019
2018
2017
2016
2015
2014
2013
2012
MORATORIUM*
Revised 9-11-2019
NOTE: THIS MAP REPRESENTS RESIDENTIAL AND COLLECTOR
STREET MORATORIUMS ONLY. MORATORIUMS ARE PLACED
ON STREETS THAT HAVE BEEN RECONSTRUCTED OR SLURRY
SEALED AND LAST 2 YEARS AFTER CONSTRUCTION.
Arterial Road Moratoriums:
Diamond Bar Blvd Between
Mountain Laurel Way &
Clear Creek Canyon Dr.
Note: Blue lines indicate streets that have been SlurrySealed and last 2 years after construction. Green linesshows streets that have been Cape Sealed and last 5years after construction.
AREA 1
AREA 2
AREA 3
AREA 4
AREA 5
AREA 6
AREA 7
6.1.c
Packet Pg. 22
FY 2020/2021 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS BUDGET Exhibit 1a
Street Improvement Projects (250-5510-46411)
Project #Project Description Status Total FY Budget (108)
RMRA
(109)
Measure M
(110) Measure
R Local Return
(111)
Gas Tax
(113)
Prop C
(121)
Hauler Fees
(125)
CDBG
01420 *
Residential and Collector Street Rehab.- Area 1a, 1b, 2 (Design)
Arterial Street Rehab (Design)
(DBB from Pathfinder to Mountain Laurel)
(Golden Springs from Brea Canyon to Lemon)
(Golden Springs from Grand to BCY)
Carryover - In Design 82,779$ 82,779$
02120 *Arterial Street Rehab (DBB from Pathfinder to Mountain Laurel Way) (Const.)Carryover - In Design 1,200,000$ 1,200,000$
CDBG Area 2 ADA Curb Ramp Project (Const.)New 177,855$ 177,855$
Total - Street Improvement Projects 1,460,634$ 1,200,000$ 82,779$ -$ -$ -$ -$ 177,855$
Traffic Management/Safety Projects (250-5510-46412)
Project #Project Description Total FY Budget (109) Measure
M
(111)
Gas Tax
(112)
Prop A
(113)
Prop C
24120 *Battery Back Up System- Final 11 Locations (Design and Construction)Carryover 107,000$ -$ 53,500$ 53,500$
Total - Traffic Projects 107,000$ -$ -$ 53,500$ 53,500$
Transportation Infrastructure Improvements (250-5510-46413)
Project #Project Description Total FY Budget (113)
Prop C
Foothill Transit
Grant
23318 *Lemon Avenue Quiet Zone Carryover 60,000$ 60,000$
23420 *Bus Shelter Replacement - GSD/Calbourne Carryover 40,000$ 40,000$
Total-Transportation Infrastructure Improvements 100,000$ 60,000$ 40,000$
Miscellaneous PW Improvements (250-5510-46420)
Project #Project Description Total FY Budget (107) Measure
W
(108)
RMRA
(109)
Measure M
(113)
Prop C
(116)
Traffic Imp
Fund
(117)
Sewer
Imp Fund
(118)
AB2766
(119)
TDA MSRC Grant
22818 *Grand/GSD Intersection Enhancement (Construction)Carryover 1,378,040$ 876,811$ 207,691$ 219,443$ 74,095$
26319 *Electric Charging Station at City Hall Carryover 63,860$ 24,930$ 38,930$
Total-Miscellaneous PW Improvements 1,441,900$ -$ 876,811$ 207,691$ 219,443$ -$ -$ 24,930$ 74,095$ 38,930$
Facilities, Parks and Rec Improvements (250-5556-46415)
Project #Project Description Total Budget
Habitat
Conserv
Grant (31814)
(001)
GF Reserves
(122)
Quimby
(124)
Park Dev
Fund
(107)
Measure W
(132)
Measure A
(540)
Building &
Facilities Fund
25517 *Canyon Loop Trail (Design)Carryover - In Design 37,780$ -$ 37,780 -$
25120 *DBC Slope Stabilization Project (Design)Carryover - In Design 75,000$ 75,000
Heritage Park - New Roof New 100,000$ 100,000
TOTAL 212,780$ -$ -$ 37,780$ -$ -$ -$ 175,000$
FY 20-21 CIP Projects Grand Total 3,322,314$
Funding Source Totals
108 RMRA (SB-1)2,076,811 CIP Project Type Totals
109 Measure M 290,470 Street Improvements 1,460,634
111 Gas Tax Fund - Traffic Management/Safety Improvements 107,000
112 Prop A 53,500 Transportation Infrastructure Improvements 100,000
113 Prop C 332,943 Miscellaneous PW Improvements 1,441,900
116 Traffic Mitigation - Facilites, Parks and Rec. Improvements 212,780
118 AB2766 24,930 3,322,314$
119 SB 821 Fund - Bike and Pedestrian Paths (TDA)74,095
122 Quimby Funds 37,780
125 CDBG Funds 177,855
250 MSRC Grant 38,930
540 Building & Facilities Maintenance Fund 175,000
250 Foothill Transit Grant 40,000
3,322,314$ 1
6.1.d
Packet Pg. 23
FY 2020/2021 DEFERRED CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS BUDGET Exhibit 1b
Street Improvement Projects (250-5510-46411)
Project #Project Description Status Total FY Budget (108)
RMRA
(109)
Measure M
(110) Measure
R Local Return
(111)
Gas Tax
(113)
Prop C
(121)
Hauler Fees
(125)
CDBG
01421 Residential and Collector Street Rehab - Area 1 (Const.)New 2,000,000$ 925,000$ 850,000$ 89,000$ 136,000$
Arterial Street Rehab (Golden Springs from Brea Canyon to Lemon Ave.) (Const.)New 900,000$ 500,000$ 400,000$
Total - Street Improvement Projects 2,900,000$ 500,000$ 925,000$ 850,000$ 89,000$ 400,000$ 136,000$ -$
Traffic Management/Safety Projects (250-5510-46412)
Project #Project Description Total FY Budget (109) Measure
M
(111)
Gas Tax
(112)
Prop A
(113)
Prop C
No Deferred Projects Carryover -$
Total - Traffic Projects -$ -$ -$ -$ -$
Transportation Infrastructure Improvements (250-5510-46413)
Project #Project Description Total FY Budget
No Deferred Projects -$ -$
Total-Transportation Infrastructure Improvements -$ -$ -$
Miscellaneous PW Improvements (250-5510-46420)
Project #Project Description Total FY Budget (107) Measure
W
(108)
RMRA
(109)
Measure M
(113)
Prop C
(116)
Traffic Imp
Fund
(117)
Sewer
Imp Fund
(118)
AB2766
(119)
TDA MSRC Grant
26019 *Groundwater Drainage Improvements-Phase 3 (Flapjack-Design)Carryover 65,000$ 65,000$
26019 *Groundwater Drainage Improvements-Phase 3 (Flapjack-Construction)Carryover 322,000$ 322,000$
Total-Miscellaneous PW Improvements 387,000$ 387,000$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -$
Facilities, Parks and Rec Improvements (250-5556-46415)
Project #Project Description Total Budget
Habitat
Conserv
Grant (31814)
(001)
GF Reserves
(122)
Quimby
(124)
Park Dev
Fund
(107)
Measure W
(132)
Measure A
(540)
Building &
Facilities Fund
25517 *Canyon Loop Trail (Construction)New 447,720$ 229,720$ 33,000$ 185,000$
25819 *Sycamore Canyon Creek Repair Carryover - In Design 80,000$ 80,000$
25120 DBC Slope Stabilization (Construction)GF Reserves 450,000$ 450,000
TOTAL 977,720$ 229,720$ 80,000$ -$ -$ 33,000$ 185,000$ 450,000$
FY 20-21 CIP Projects Grand Total 4,264,720$
Funding Source Totals CIP Project Type Totals
001 General Fund Reserves 80,000 Street Improvements 2,900,000
107 Measure W 420,000 Traffic Management/Safety Improvements 0
108 RMRA (SB-1)500,000 Transportation Infrastructure Improvements 0
109 Measure M 925,000 Miscellaneous PW Improvements 387,000
110 Measure R - Local Return Fd 850,000 Facilites, Parks and Rec. Improvements 977,720
111 Gas Tax Fund 89,000 4,264,720$
113 Prop C 400,000
132 Measure A 185,000
250 Habitat Conservation Grant 229,720
540 Building & Facilities Maintenance Fund 450,000
4,264,720$
1
6.1.e
Packet Pg. 24
PLANNING COMMISSION
AGENDA REPORT
AGENDA ITEM NUMBER: 6.2
MEETING DATE: May 26, 2020
CASE/FILE NUMBER: New CEQA VMT Transportation Thresholds
BACKGROUND:
Changes in state law require the City to adopt new California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) thresholds of significance for transportation impacts. For the purposes of
CEQA, these changes will modify how the City evaluates projects for transportation
impacts. Specifically, the City is required to use Vehicle Miles Travelled (VMT) instead
of Level of Service (LOS) as the metric to evaluate transportation impacts in CEQA
documents such as Environmental Impact Reports and Mitigated Negative Declarations.
Outside of the CEQA process, the City can choose to continue to evaluate projects
using the LOS metric. Based on guidance provided through an implementation process
led by the San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments (SGVCOG), City staff prepared
new CEQA transportation impact thresholds for consideration by the Planning
Commission and City Council. This report summarizes the state mandate that requires
modifying the CEQA thresholds, discusses the City staff recommendations, and
includes a draft Resolution to adopt the new CEQA transportation thresholds.
State Mandate
On September 27, 2013, Governor Jerry Brown signed SB 743 into law and started a
process intended to fundamentally change how transportation impact analysis is
conducted as part of the CEQA review of projects. SB 743 eliminates LOS as the basis
for determining transportation impacts under CEQA and requires the use of VMT
instead. The state is shifting the focus of CEQA traffic analysis from measuring a
project’s impact on automobile delay (LOS) to measuring the amount and distance of
automobile travel that is attributable to a project (VMT). The State’s goal in changing
the metric used to determine a significant transportation impact is to encourage land
use and transportation decisions that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, encourage
infill development, and improve public health through active transportation.
To implement the legislation, lead agencies will need to determine appropriate VMT
methodologies, thresholds, and feasible mitigation measures. Since VMT is a new
methodology to analyze transportation impacts, there was a need to develop
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR ~ 21810 COPLEY DRIVE ~ DIAMOND BAR, CA 91765 ~ TEL. (909) 839-7030 ~ FAX (909) 861-3117
6.2
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New CEQA VMT Transportation Thresholds Page 2 of 6
appropriate guidance for projects subject to environmental review. The guidance is to
ensure that all projects subject to review by that agency use the same data,
approaches, and analytical tools. A study was conducted by SGVCO G to assist its
member agencies in understanding the specific questions that need to be addressed
when making these determinations and to provide research, analysis, and other
evidence to support their final SB 743 implementation decisions. The goal of the study
was to develop criteria to help jurisdictions develop a record. The recommendations
provided here by staff have been adjusted to better suit the City’s needs. SB 743 must
be implemented by lead agencies by July 1, 2020.
Since SB 743 represents a significant departure from the City’s current practice, the City
must address the following questions below prior to taking any action:
1. Methodology – What methodology should be used to forecast project-generated
VMT and a project’s effect on VMT under baseline and cumulative conditions,
and how does the selection of a threshold influence the methodology decision?
2. Thresholds – What threshold options are available to each jurisdiction and what
substantial evidence exists to support selecting a specific VMT threshold?
3. Mitigation – What would constitute feasible mitigation measures for a VMT
impact given the land use and transportation context of the SGVCOG region?
The methodology, VMT thresholds and mitigation criteria to be utilized must be adopted
by each jurisdiction.
Potential VMT thresholds were assessed within the context of the objectives of SB 743,
legal opinions related to the legislation, proposed CEQA Guidelines Updates, and the
Technical Advisory produced by the Governor's Office of Planning and Research
(OPR). The thresholds that the OPR’s Technical Advisory Committee recommended is
that proposed developments should generate VMT per person that is no less than 15%
below existing VMT per capita. In addition, the OPR identified projects and types of
projects that should be “screened” from a VMT analysis, meaning they would be
automatically found to have no significant traffic impact.
ANALYSIS:
CEQA Transportation Thresholds
Which projects should be exempt from VMT Analysis?
Project Screening Criteria: As noted above, the OPR has identified guidelines for
projects which may be screened and would therefore be exempt from a VMT analysis.
The theory is that the development of these projects will by their nature reduce vehicle
trips and therefore be in conformance with SB 743. In accordance with OPR
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New CEQA VMT Transportation Thresholds Page 3 of 6
guidelines, staff recommends that the City screen out projects that fall within the
following categories:
• Retail projects up to 50,000 SF in floor area.
• Projects generating less than 110 daily trips.
• Residential and office projects located in low VMT areas. Low VMT is defined as
15% below the City baseline average VMT for that area.
• Projects within a Transit Priority Area (TPA). A TPA is defined as locations within
½ mile of a major transit stop or station (e.g. Metrolink), or within ½ mile of a
high-quality transit corridor with headways of 15-minutes or less during peak
commute hours.
• Affordable housing developments or affordable housing units within mixed -use
developments.
• Transportation projects that promote non-auto travel, improve safety, or improve
traffic operations at current bottlenecks, such as transit, bicycle and pedestrian
facilities, intersection traffic control (e.g., traffic signals or roundabouts), or
widening at intersections to provide new turn lanes.
How does the City define its Baseline VMT?
Baseline VMT Methodology and Data: The Baseline VMT is defined as the average
VMT for the area represented by the City of Diamond Bar, as measured by VMT per
capita, VMT per employee, or VMT per service population. A project’s VMT will be
compared to the Baseline VMT when determining potential significant impacts.
Baseline total VMT per service population (i.e., population plus employment), home -
based VMT per capita, and home-based work VMT per worker were calculated using
outputs from the Southern California Association of Governments’ (SCAG) Regional
Transportation Plan travel forecasting model and the SCAG Transportation Analysis
Model. In addition, data from the California Household Travel Survey was used to
compare model derived estimates of home-based VMT with those based on survey
observations. VMT results and comparisons of results from different data sources were
displayed graphically to aid in determining the appropriate VMT me tric and data source
for calculating VMT throughout the SGVCOG region.
Based on the different options analyzed, staff recommends the utilization of the
Citywide boundary VMT per service population for impacts on project generated
VMT and project effect on VMT. The baseline VMTs for each type of project are
presented in Table 1 (see Attachment 2). It is recommended that the latest version of
the SCAG Model be used to determine Diamond Bar’s baseline average VMT.
6.2
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New CEQA VMT Transportation Thresholds Page 4 of 6
What is an appropriate VMT significant impact threshold?
Threshold Options: Potential VMT thresholds were assessed within the context of the
objectives of SB 743, legal opinions related to the legislation, proposed CEQA
Guidelines updates, and the Technical Advisory produced by OPR. The results of the
study being conducted by SGVCOG, identified four threshold options for consideration
by lead agencies.
• Option 1: Thresholds consistent with OPR’s Technical Advisory, recommending
that proposed developments generate VMT that is 15% below existing VMT;
• Option 2: Thresholds consistent with Lead Agency air quality, greenhouse gas
emissions reduction, and energy conservation goals (14.3% below existing);
• Option 3: Thresholds consistent with the Regional Transportation
Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy future year VMT projects by jurisdiction
or subregion (better than General Plan Buildout); and
• Option 4: Thresholds based on baseline VMT performance by jurisdiction or
subregion (better than existing).
Based on the research conducted by SGVCOG, a re view of potential projects, internal
staff discussions, and a desire to maintain thresholds which are in keeping with the
recommendations of the Governor’s OPR, it is staff’s recommendation that the City
choose Option 1, utilizing a threshold consistent with 15% below the City of
Diamond Bar’s average VMT for land development projects. This is more clearly
defined in Table 1, as are the thresholds for other types of projects.
Mitigation: Transportation Demand Management (TDM) strategies and its effectiven ess
for reducing VMT are currently being reviewed and assessed for relevancy by
SGVCOG. Key strategies which have been examined and could prove effective include:
• Diversifying land use;
• Improving pedestrian networks;
• Implementing traffic calming infrastructure;
• Building low-street bicycle network improvements;
• Encouraging telecommuting and alternative work schedules; and
• Providing ride-share programs
Due to limitations of project-by-project approaches to reducing VMT, an evaluation of
larger mitigation programs is being examined by SGVCOG. New program concepts
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New CEQA VMT Transportation Thresholds Page 5 of 6
could include VMT mitigation banks and exchanges. These are innovative concepts
that have not yet been developed and tested but are being considered in areas where
limited mitigation options would otherwise exist. SGVCOG is looking into the feasibility
of a VMT mitigation bank or exchange in order to further assist lead agencies in
implementing SB 743. At this point, staff does not recommend that the City
commit to adopting specific mitigation measures, but would recommend
acceptance of mitigation measures that have been analyzed by SGVCOG and
proven to be effective.
In addition to CEQA analysis, the City will be requiring a Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) to
be consistent with the General Plan goals and policies that set standards for which City
infrastructure will strive to maintain. Therefore, a TIA will evaluate intersection and
roadway LOS impacts as part of the City’s TIA Guidelines.
General Plan Consistency
The new CEQA VMT transportation impact thresholds are consistent with the
objectives, principles, and standards of the General Plan. The Land Use & Economic
Development, Community Character & Placemaking, Circulation, Resource
Conservation, and Community Health & Sustainability Elements have a numerous goals
and policies relevant to the new CEQA transportation impact thresholds, including the
following:
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENT GOALS & POLICIES
Land Use & Economic Development LU-G-4, LU-P-3, LU-P-4, LU-P-7, LU-G-9,
LU-P-14, LU-G-12, LU-G-13, LU-G-14, LU-G-
19, LU-G-26, LU-P-15, LU-P-21, LU-P-26, LU-
P-28, LU-P-29, LU-P-31, LU-P-32, LU-P-33,
LU-P-35, LU-P-41, LU-P-45, LU-P-49, LU-P-
51, ED-G-2, ED-G-5, ED-P-8, ED-P-9
Community Character &
Placemaking
CC-P-23, CC-P-25, CC-P-26, CC-G-14, CC-P-
56, CC-P-58, CC-P-59, CC-G-17, CC-P-64
Circulation CR-G-1, CR-G-2, CR-G-3, CR-G-4, CR-G-5,
CR-G-6, CR-P-3, CR-P-4, CR-P-5, CR-P-7,
CR-G-8, CR-P-12, CR-P-16, CR-P-24, CR-P-
25, CR-P-54
Resource Conservation RC-G-14, RC-P-35
Community Health & Sustainability CHS-G-2, CHS-P-4, CHS-P-5, CHS-P-6,
CHS-P-33
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT:
The new CEQA VMT transportation thresholds have been assessed in accordance with
the authority and criteria contained in CEQA and the State CEQA Guidelines. The
6.2
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New CEQA VMT Transportation Thresholds Page 6 of 6
adoption of new local CEQA thresholds of significance for transportation impacts and
the adoption of new Local Transportation Assessment Guidelines will not have a
significant environmental impact and are exempt from the CEQA pursuant to Section
15308 of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations because the two actions are
undertaken by the City for the protection of the environment. The revised CEQA
thresholds will be compliant with a State mandate (SB 743) and will be used in a
regulatory process (CEQA process) that involves procedures for the protection of the
environment. Accordingly, the City Council will consider the recommendation to find the
Resolution exempt from the environmental review requirements of CEQA pursuant to
Section 15308 of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations.
PREPARED BY:
REVIEWED BY:
Attachments:
A. Draft Resolution No. 2020-XX
B. Table 1: Significant Thresholds for Transportation
6.2
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PLANNING COMMISSION
RESOLUTION NO. 2020-XX
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND
BAR, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING THE ADOPTION OF “VEHICLE MILES
TRAVELED” THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE FOR PURPOSES OF ANALYZING
TRANSPORTATION IMPACTS UNDER THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY ACT TO THE CITY COUNCIL.
A. RECITALS
1. WHEREAS, on April 18, 1989, the City of Diamond Bar was established as a duly
organized municipal corporation of the State of California.
2. WHEREAS, on July 25, 1995, the City of Diamond Bar adopted its General Plan
incorporating all State mandated elements, and portions of the General Plan have
been updated from time to time.
3. WHEREAS, on December 17, 2019, the City of Diamond Bar adopted its
comprehensive update of the General Plan (“General Plan 2040”).
4. WHEREAS, the California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines (“CEQA
Guidelines”) encourage public agencies to develop and pub lish generally
applicable “thresholds of significance” to be used in determining the significance
of a project’s environmental effects.
5. WHEREAS, CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.7(a) defines a threshold of
significance as “an identifiable quantitative, qualitative or performance level of a
particular environmental effect, noncompliance with which means the effect will
normally be determined to be significant by the agency and compliance with
which means the effect normally will be determined to be less than significant”.
6. WHEREAS, CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.7(b) requires that thresholds of
significance must be adopted by ordinance, resolution, rule, or regulations,
developed through a public review process, and be supported by substantial
evidence.
7. WHEREAS, pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.7(c), when adopting
thresholds of significance, a public agency may consider thresholds of
significance adopted or recommended by other public agencies provided that the
decision of the agency is supported by substantial evidence.
8. WHEREAS, Senate Bill 743, enacted in 2013 and codified in Public Resources
Code Section 21099, required changes to the CEQA Guidelines regarding the
criteria for determining the significance of transportation impacts of projects.
9. WHEREAS, in 2018, the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (“OPR”)
proposed, and the California Natural Resources Agency certified and adopted,
new CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3 that identifies vehicle miles traveled
(“VMT”) – meaning the amount and distance of automobile travel attributable to
a project – as the most appropriate metric to evaluate a project’s transportation
impacts.
6.2.a
Packet Pg. 31
2
PC Resolution No. 2020-XX
10. WHEREAS, as a result, automobile delay, as measured by “level of service” and
other similar metrics, generally no longer constitutes a significant environmental
effect under CEQA.
11. WHEREAS, CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3 goes into effect on July 1, 2020,
though public agencies may elect to be governed by this section immediately.
12. WHEREAS, the City of Diamond Bar, following a public review process consisting
of staff presentations before the Planning Commission, wishes to recommend
adopting the VMT thresholds of significance for determining the significance of
transportation impacts to the City Council.
13. WHEREAS, on May 26, 2020, at a regularly scheduled meeting, the Planning
Commission reviewed and considered the City of Diamond Bar’s proposed VMT
thresholds of significance for determining the significance of transportation
impacts and recommends adoption to the City Council.
B. RESOLUTION
NOW, THEREFORE, it is found, determined and resolved by the Planning Commission
of the City of Diamond Bar as follows:
1. This Planning Commission hereby specifically finds that all of the facts set forth
in the Recitals, Part A, of this Resolution are true and correct.
2. Based upon the facts and evidence presented during the Planning Commission
meeting regarding the City’s proposed VMT thresholds of significance for
determining the significance of transportation impacts , including oral and
documentary evidence provided by City staff, the Planning Commission hereby
finds as follows:
(a) The new CEQA VMT transportation impact thresholds are consistent with
the City’s General Plan 2040’s numerous goals and policies adopted
December 17, 2019, including, but not limited to, the following:
(i) Land Use & Economic Development Element
• Goals: LU-G-4, LU-G-9, LU-G-12, LU-G-13, LU-G-14, LU-G-19,
LU-G-26, ED-G-2, ED-G-5
• Policies: LU-P-3, LU-P-4, LU-P-7, LU-P-14, LU-P-15, LU-P-21,
LU-P-26, LU-P-28, LU-P-29, LU-P-31, LU-P-32, LU-P-33, LU-P-
35, LU-P-41, LU-P-45, LU-P-49, LU-P-51, ED-P-9, ED-P-9
(ii) Community Character & Placemaking Element
• Goals: CC-G-14, CC-G-17
• Policies: CC-P-23, CC-P-25, CC-P-26, CC-P-56, CC-P-58, CC-
P-59, CC-P-64
6.2.a
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3
PC Resolution No. 2020-XX
(iii) Circulation Element
• Goals: CR-G-1, CR-G-2, CR-G-3, CR-G-4, CR-G-5, CR-G-6,
CR-G-8
• Policies: CR-P-3, CR-P-4, CR-P-5, CR-P-7, CR-P-12, CR-P-16,
CR-P-24, CR-P-25, CR-P- 54
(iv) Resource Conservation Element
• Goal: RC-G-14
• Policy: RC-P-35
(v) Community Health & Sustainability Element
• Goal: CHS-G-2
• Policies: CHS-P-4, CHS-P-5, CHS-P-6, CHS-P-33
(b) The new CEQA VMT transportation thresholds has been assessed in
accordance with the authority and criteria contained in the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the State CEQA Guidelines. The
adoption of new local CEQA thresholds of significance for transportation
impacts and the adoption of new Local Transportation Assessment
Guidelines will not have a significant environmental impact and are exempt
from the CEQA pursuant to Section 15308 of Title 14 of the California
Code of Regulations because the two actions are undertaken by the City
for the protection of the environment. The revised CEQA thresholds will
be compliant with a State mandate (SB 743) and will be used in a
regulatory process (CEQA process) that involves procedures for the
protection of the environment. Accordingly, the City Council will consider
the recommendation to find the Resolution exempt from the environmental
review requirements of CEQA pursuant to Section 15308 of Title 14 of the
California Code of Regulations.
3. Based on the findings and conclusions set forth above, this Resolution shall serve
as the Planning Commission’s report to the City Council recommending adoption
of the VMT thresholds of significance as set forth in Exhibit A.
The Planning Commission shall:
(a) Certify as to the adoption of this Resolution; and
(b) Forthwith transmit a certified copy of this Resolution to the City Council of the City
of Diamond Bar.
6.2.a
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4
PC Resolution No. 2020-XX
ADOPTED AND APPROVED THIS 26th DAY OF MAY, 2020, BY THE PLANNING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR.
______________________________
Kenneth Mok, Chairman
I, Greg Gubman, Secretary of the Planning Commission of the City of Diamond Bar, do hereby
certify that the foregoing Resolution was duly introduced, passed, and adopted, at a regular
meeting of the Planning Commission held on the 26th day of May, 2020, by the following vote
to wit:
AYES: Commissioners:
NOES: Commissioners:
ABSENT: Commissioners:
ABSTAIN: Commissioners:
ATTEST: ______________________________
Greg Gubman, Secretary
6.2.a
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City of Diamond Bar
VMT Baselines and Thresholds of Significance
Consistent with State CEQA guidelines section 15064.3, the City of Diamond Bar has
adopted the project baselines and thresholds of significance set forth in Table 1 to guide
in determining when a project will have a significant transportation impact.
Table 1
Project Type Baseline and Methodology Threshold
Land Use Plan Total VMT per service population.
Origin/Destination (OD)
A significant impact would
occur if the VMT1 for the
plan would exceed the
current baseline VMT2.
Land Use
Project
(mixed-use with
residential and
employment
components and
special
generators)
Origin/Destination (OD) per
resident/employee. Determination
of applicable projects will be
determined by City staff on a case-
by-case basis.
A significant impact would
occur if the VMT1 for the
project would exceed 15%
below the applicable
baseline VMT2.
Land Use
Project
(residential only)
Origin/Destination (OD) per
resident/employee, and Home-
Base VMT per population using
Production/Attraction (PA)
A significant impact would
occur if the VMT1 for the
project would exceed 15%
below the applicable
baseline VMT2.
Land Use
Project
(employment
generators)
Origin/Destination (OD) per
resident/employee, and Home-
Base-Work VMT per Employee
using Production/Attraction (PA)
A significant impact would
occur if the VMT1 for the
project would exceed 15%
below the applicable
baseline VMT2.
Retail Project Home-Base to Work VMT per
Employee Production/Attraction
(PA). Alternatively, the boundary
method could be applied to
determine if the project results in a
net increases or a net decrease in
VMT in the selected boundary
(typically within the City limits).
A significant impact would
occur if the VMT1 for the
project would exceed 15%
below the applicable
baseline VMT2. If
boundary method is
applied, impact would
occur if a net increase in
Total VMT occurs.
6.2.b
Packet Pg. 35
Transportation
Project
Total VMT per service population
using the boundary method to
determine if the project results in a
net increase or a net decrease in
VMT in the selected boundary
(typically within the City limits).
A significant impact would
occur in there is a net
increase in total VMT within
the boundary.
Note:
1. VMT to be reported as VMT per baseline indicated for that project type.
2. Baseline VMT is defined as the City of Diamond Bar VMT.
6.2.b
Packet Pg. 36
Project Status Report CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
May 26, 2020 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
LEGEND PH = PUBLIC HEARING
X = NON PUBLIC HEARING
AP = ASSIGNED PLANNER
PC = PLANNING COMMISSION
AR = ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW
CC = CITY COUNCIL
PROPERTY LOCATION
PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW File # AP Applicant PC
5/26/20
CC
6/2/20
PC
6/9/20
CC
6/16/20
PC
6/23/20
CC
7/7/20
New CEQA VMT Transportation
Thresholds
GL X
FY2020-2021 CIP GL Citywide X
1111 N. Diamond Bar Blvd.
(New Single family residence)
ZC/DR PL2015-253 GL Creative Design
Associates
PH
ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW
Property Location AP Applicant
None
PENDING ITEMS
Property Location File # AP Applicant Status
2523 Blaze Trail
(New single family residence)
DR PL2020-49 MN Pete Volbeda Incomplete letter sent 4/17/20 - waiting for additional information
2366 Clear Creek
(Addition to single family residence)
DR PL2020-70 NTE Pete Volbeda Under review
Crooked Creek
(11-unit subdivision)
TTM, DR, CUP, TP
PL2017-203
MN Rob Meserve Incomplete letter sent 1/10/20 – waiting for additional information
800 N. Diamond Bar Blvd.
(Sign program)
CSP PL2019-164 MN Raj Panchal Second incomplete letter sent 3/9/20 – waiting for additional information
24011 Falcons View Dr.
(Addition and remodel to single family
residence)
DR PL2020-25 MN William Edwards Under Review
20657 Golden Springs
(Sign program amendment)
CUP PL2019-172 MN Sign Express Incomplete letter sent 10/10/19 – waiting for additional Information
2360 Indian Creek
(Addition and remodel to single family
residence)
DR PL2019-185 MN Pete Volbeda Second incomplete letter sent 2/26/20 – waiting for additional information
22589 Pacific Ln.
(New single family residence)
DR PL2020-17 NTE Jason Baumgartner Under Review
9.1
Packet Pg. 37
Project Status Report CITY OF DIAMOND BAR Page 2
May 26, 2020 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
PENDING ITEMS (continued)
Property Location File # AP Applicant Status
22938 ½ Ridge Line Rd.
(Wireless facility)
CUP PL2020-42 NTE Jill Cleveland Incomplete letter sent 3/30/20 – waiting for additional information
23121 Ridge Line Rd.
(New single family residence)
DR PL2020-31 NTE Pete Volbeda Incomplete letter sent 3/26/20 – waiting for additional information
23135 Ridge Line Rd.
(New single family residence)
DR PL2018-233 MN Faiz Ennabe Second incomplete letter sent 2/6/20 – waiting for additional information
2775 Shadow Canyon
(New single family residence)
DR PL2019-188 NTE Edwin Agabao Incomplete letter sent 3/10/20 - waiting for additional information
9.1
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CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING
AND AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
I, Stella Marquez, declare as follows:
I am employed by the City of Diamond Bar, Community Development Department. On
May 22, 2020, a copy of the May 26, 2020, Planning Commission Agenda, was posted
at the following locations:
SCAOMD/Government Center, 21865 Copley Drive
Heritage Park, 2900 Brea Canyon Road
City website: www.diamondbarca.gov
Due to COVID-19 closures, the Planning Commission Agenda could not be posted at
the following regular posting locations:
Diamond Bar City Hall
Diamond Bar Library
I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.
Executed on May 22, 2020, at Diamond Bar, California.
Community Deve