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HomeMy WebLinkAboutOCSD 05-14RESOLUTION NO. OCSD 05-14 CERTIFYING THE FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE CARBON CANYON DAM SEWER PIPELINE PROJECT, CONTRACT NO. 2-24-1; MAKING CERTAIN FINDINGS RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS IDENTIFIED IN THE FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT; ADOPTING A ST A TEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS; ADOPTING A MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM; AND APPROVING THE CARBON CANYON DAM SEWER PIPELINE PROJECT, EXPANDED SERVICE AREA OPTION, CONTRACT NO. 2-24-1. WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD), ("Board") is considering the approval of new construction in the City of Brea to improve the District's collection system ("Carbon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline Project, Contract No. 2-24-1" or "Project"); and, WHEREAS, because OCSD will be undertaking the Project, OCSD is the lead agency for the Project pursuant to CEQA, ; and, . . \YHEREAS, in accordance with CEQA Guidelines section 15064, OCSD staff determined . ~ that an' Environmental Impact Report ("EIR") was required for the Project due to substantial evidence,that the Project could have a significant effect on the environment; and WH,E~AS, RBF Consulting, under the direction ofOCSD Staff has prepared a Final EIR for the P~ojeci'2qnsisting of the Draft EIR and the Final EIR, which includes copies of the commenl letters ·QCSD staff received on the Draft EIR and the District's responses to said comments;' and Draft EIR text revisions. NOW, THEREFORE, the Board of Directors of Orange County Sanitation District, OOES HEREBY RESOLVE, DETERMINE AND ORDER: I . That the Board certifies that the Final BIR has been completed in compliance with CEQA and the CEQA Guidelines; and, 2. That the Board has reviewed and considered the information contained in the Final BIR before considering Project approval; and, 3. That the Board determines that the Final BIR reflects OCSD's independent judgment and analysis: and, 4. That the Board adopts the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, attached as Attachment A; and, 5. That the Board adopts the Findings of Fact and Statement of Overriding Considerations, attached as "Attachment B;" and, 6. That the Board approves the Carbon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline Project, Expanded Service Area Option, Contract No. 2-24-1. 7. That the Board specifies that the record of proceedings on which the Board's decision is based is located at OCSD's administrative offices at 10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley, California, 92708. The custodian of the record of proceedings is (IDENTIFY DEPARTMENT WITHIN OCSD WHERE PROJECT FILES ARE LOCATED). PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting held May 25, 2005. ~~ Chair ATTEST: . >· EDMS: 003790166 Carbon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline Project SCH# 2004091119 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requires that when a public agency completes an environmental document that includes measures to mitigate or avoid significant environmental effects, the public agency must adopt a reporting or monitoring program. This requirement ensures that environmental impacts found to be significant will be mitigated. The reporting or monitoring program must be designed to ensure compliance during project implementation (Public Resources Code Section 21081.6). In compliance with Public Resources Code Section 21081.6, the attached Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP) has been prepared for the Carbon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline Project. This MMRP is intended to provide verification that all applicable Conditions of Approval relative to significant environmental impacts are monitored and reported. Monitoring will include 1) verification that each mitigation measures has been implemented; 2) recordation of the actions taken to implement each mitigation; and 3) retention of records in the Carbon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline Project file. This MMRP delineates responsibilities for monitoring the project, but also allows the Orange County Sanitation District (OCSD) flexibility and discretion in determining how best to monitor implementation. Monitoring procedures will vary according to the type of mitigation measure. Adequate monitoring consists of demonstrating that monitoring procedures took place and that mitigation measures were implemented. Reporting consists of establishing a record that a mitigation measure is being implemented, and generally involves the following steps: • OCSD distributes reporting forms to the appropriate entities for verification of compliance. • Department/agencies with reporting responsibilities will review the EIR, which provides general background information on the reasons for including specified mitigation measures. • Problems or exceptions to compliance will be addressed to OCSD as appropriate. • Periodic meetings may be held during the project implementation to report on compliance of mitigation measures. • Responsible parties provide OCSD with verification that monitoring has been conducted and ensure, as applicable, that mitigation measures have been implemented. Monitoring compliance may be documented through existing review and approval program such as field inspection reports and plan review. • OCSD prepares a reporting form periodically during the construction phase and an annual report summarizing all project mitigation monitoring efforts. • Appropriate mitigation measures will be included in construction documents and/or conditions of permits/approvals. Minor changes to the MMRP, if required, would be made in accordance with CEQA and would be permitted after further review and approval by OCSD. Such changes could include reassignment of monitoring and reporting responsibilities, program redesign to make any appropriate improvements, and/or modification, substitution or deletion of mitigation measures subject to conditions described in CEQA Guidelines Section 15162. No change will be permitted unless the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program continues to satisfy the requirements of Public Resources Code Section 21081.6. Orange County Sanitation District April 20, 2005 A-1 Carbon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline Project Final Environmental Impact Report 4.2 Geology, Soils, and Seismicity Mitigation 4.2(c) (GE0·1) The proposed sewer main shall be designed to accommodate up to two inches of vertical differential settlement in the vicinity of the Pump Station, through the use of flexible joints. These joints shall provide the pipeline with at least two inches of differential settlement over a horizontal distance of fo -feet 40' . Mitigation 4.2(e) (GE0-2) Concurrent with grading permit application, the Applicant shall submit an Erosion Control Plan for review and approval by the Orange County Sanitation District. The Erosion Control Plan shall reflect applicable Specific Plan policies and OCSD requirements, as well as current County of Orange NPDES permit requirements. The Erosion Control Plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: • Erosion potential within graded areas shall be reduced and controlled by utilizing rapid development planting techniques (e.g. hydro seeding) slope terracing, replacement with cohesive soils not subject to erosion, and/or the construction of slope drainage improvements; • Interim erosion control measures during construction, including temporary desilting basins and interceptor dikes shall be implemented to minimize sedimentation; • All landscape and/or grading plans shall include provisions for temporary erosion control on all graded sites which are scheduled to remain unim roved durin the winter/rain Orange County Sanitation District Project Engineer Project Engineer A-2 Design Review OCSD Concurrent with OCSD grading permit application ATTACHMENT A Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Appropriate documentation (e.g. memo to file) Appropriate documentation (e.g. memo to file) April 20, 2005 Carbon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline Project Final Environmental Impact Report months; and • County of Orange NPDES, SWPPP, and BMP requirements. Mitigation 4.2(f) (GE0-3) Project The following mitigation measures shall be adhered to during Engineer project implementation: • The proposed sewer main shall be designed to accommodate up to two inches of vertical differential settlement in the vicinity of the Pump Station, through the use of flexible joints. These joints shall provide the pipeline with at least two inches of differential settlement over a horizontal distance of forty-feet (40'). • Utility trenches can be backfilled with the onsite material, provided it is free of debris and/or significant organic material. • Underlying subgrade soils must be prepared in such a manner that a uniform response to the applied loads is achieved. • All temporary excavations should be performed in accordance with ro'ect lans, s ecifications, and all OSHA re uirements. t~~~>i,,~~:,~:jiijypf <>1~9i:.a~~;w~1~ff lq~~u~·-::1·1·~~~::; l~:~.~c241·~r Mitigation 4.3(a) CHWQ-1) Orange County Sanitation District must comply with the existing California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) General Construction Activity Storm Water Permit No. CAS000002 (general permit), for discharges of storm water associated with construction. This includes the development and implementation of a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan SWPPP , Orange County Sanitation District Project Manager A-3 Design Review OCSD I Construction Construction OCSD I Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board ATTACHMENT A Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Appropriate documentation (e.g. memo to file) Field Notes April 20, 2005 Carbon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline Project Final Environmental Impact Report Mitigation 4.4(a) (AQ-1) During clearing, grading, earth moving, or excavation operations, excessive fugitive dust emissions shall be controlled by regular water or other dust preventive measures using the following procedures, as specified in the SCAQMD Rule 403. • On-site vehicle speed shall be limited to 25 miles per hour. • All material excavated or graded would be sufficiently watered to prevent excessive amounts of dust. Watering would occur at least twice daily with complete coverage, preferable in the late morning and after work is done for the day. • All material transported on-site or off-site would be either sufficiently watered or securely covered to prevent excessive amounts of dust. • The area disturbed by clearing, grading, earth moving, or excavation operations would be minimized so as to prevent excessive amounts of dust. • These control techniques would be indicated in project specifications. Compliance with the measure would be subject to periodic site inspections by the City. Orange County Sanitation District Construction Contractor A-4 Construction OCSD I South Coast Air Quality Management District ATTACHMENT A Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Field Notes April 20, 2005 Carbon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline Project Final Environmental Impact Report Visible dust beyond the property line emanating from the project would be revented to the maximum extent feasible. Mitigation 4.4(a) (AQ-2) All trucks that are to haul excavated or graded material on-site shall comply with State Vehicle Code Section 23114, with special attention to Sections 23114(b)(F), (e)(4) as amended, regarding the prevention of such material spilling onto public streets and roads. Mitigation 4.4(a) (AQ-3) Ozone precursor emissions from construction equipment vehicles shall be controlled by maintaining equipment engines in good condition and proper tune per manufacturer's specifications, to the satisfaction of the City Engineer. Compliance with this measure would be subject to periodic inspections of construction equipment vehicles b the Cit . Mitigation 4.4(e) (AQ-4) The odor assessment and control plan for construction shall include the following assessment methods when work is occurring in the manhole immediately upstream of the Carbon Canyon Pump Station (CCPS) wet well, the CCPS wet well is being cleaned out, the force mains are being purged and flushed out prior to being abandoned, and when the connection is made at the downstream end of the project: • Continually monitor and record the hydrogen sulfide concentration at the bottom of the manhole immediately upstream of the CCPS wet well or the manhole at the point of connection in Rose Drive and Vesuvius Drive. • Monitor and record the ambient air in the vicinity of the CCPS near the visitor arkin lot and visitor center and near the Orange County Sanitation District Construction Contractor Construction Contractor Construction Contractor A-5 Construction Construction Construction OCSD South Coast Air Quality Management District OCSD South Coast Air Quality Management District OCSD A TT ACHIVl1:.NT A Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Field Notes Field Notes Field Notes April 20, 2005 Carbon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline Project Final Environmental Impact Report closest residence at the intersection of Rose Drive and Vesuvius Drive. • The specifications shall require the contractor to use an Odalog gas monitor for manhole hydrogen sulfide monitoring and a low range Odalog TM for the ambient air monitoring. The ambient air monitor shall be installed in a tree at "nose" level. If the hydrogen sulfide concentration indicates possible odor problems, the contractor may take one or more of the following actions to prevent an odor problem: • Stop work until concentrations decrease or wind conditions change. • Stop work for the remainder of the day and request the injection of sodium hydroxide into an upstream manhole. • Install facilities to feed ferrous chloride into the wastewater system upstream of CCPS to reduce odors at the CCPS and the discharge end of the force mains and operate the facilities as needed. Ferrous chloride shall be contained and secure. • Install facilities to feed Bioxide into the CCPS wet well to reduce sulfide buildup in the force mains thereby reducing odor at the point of connection in Rose Drive and Vesuvius Drive and operate the facilities as needed. Bioxide TM is a relatively innocuous chemical (calcium nitrate - a good grade of fertilizer) and is easier to handle than ferrous chloride. Orange County Sanitation District A-6 ATTACHMENT A Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program April20,2005 ' Carbon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline Project Final Environmental Impact Report • Enclose the work area in a temporary structure and exhaust and treat the air with granular activated carbon. This system be permitted by the South Coast Air Quality Management District. The contractor shall be required to secure such a permit. Should the contractor use such a system, it is important the contractor be prohibited from using caustic impregnated granular activated carbon, as this type of carbon is subject to bed fires because of its low ignition temperature. The "action limits" shall be tentatively set at those indicated below. If there are odor complaints, or if the inspectors can detect odor in the Regional Park or at the sidewalk adjacent to the residences at the intersection of Rose Dr. and Vesuvius Dr., the "action limits" shall be adjusted downward as needed to mitigate the odors. The proposed action limits are: • Hydrogen sulfide concentrations at the manhole bases above 25 parts per million volume (ppmv). • Hydrogen sulfide concentration at the sidewalk near the residences or in the Regional Park within 50 feet of the construction area above 10 parts per billion volume (ppbv). Note: This is well above the reported detection threshold of 0.5 ppbv (someone detects some odor) and about twice the recognition threshold (the individual recognizes that is the odor of rotten eggs) of about 4.7 ppbv. The 10 ppbv action level is reasonable. Orange County Sanitation District A-7 ATTACHMt.NT A Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program April 20, 2005 Carbon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline Project Final Environmental Impact Report Noise{ Mitigation 4.S(a) (N·1) Construction activities shall comply with Chapter 78 of the City of Brea Municipal Code (Noise Control). Construction is permitted only between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., Monday throu h Saturda exce t le al holida s . Mitigation 4.S(a) (N-2) Prior to the issuance of grading permits, the grading plan shall be reviewed and approved by OCSD to ensure that the following notes have been added to the grading plans: • During construction and stockpiling, vehicle staging areas and stationary equipment shall be located as far as practical from noise sensitive receptors, to the satisfaction of the City Buildin Official. Mitigation 4.S(a) (N-3) Should the project require off-site import/export of fill material during construction, trucks shall utilize a route that is least disruptive to sensitive receptors, subject to review and approval by the OCSD. Mitigation 4.S(a) (N·4) Prior to commencement of any construction and grading activity, OCSD shall notify all residents within 300 feet of the project of the expected duration of and times of construction activities. A contact name and 24-hour telephone number shall be identified OCSD to address any problems that arise. Said list and contact name and phone number shall be submitted to OCSD prior to the issuance of a grading permit. Orange County Sanitation District Construction Contractor Project Engineer Construction Contractor Project Manager A-8 Construction Prior to the issuance of grading permits Construction Prior to commencement of any construction and grading activity City of Brea OCSD OCSD OCSD ATTACHMENT A Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Field Notes Appropriate documentation (e.g. memo to file) Field Notes Appropriate documentation (e.g. memo to file) April 20, 2005 ' Carbon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline Project Final Environmental Impact Report 4.6 , Cultural Resources , Mitigation 4.6(b) (CR-1) Archaeological monitoring shall be required during any grading, grubbing, trenching, excavations, and/or other earth-moving activities in the northeastern portion of the project area. Mitigation 4.6(c) CCR-2a) The excavation of areas identified as likely to contain paleontologic resources shall be monitored by a qualified paleontological monitor. Monitoring shall be done on all undisturbed subsurface areas with bedrock, older alluvium, and alluvium which might be present below the surface. The monitor shall be prepared to quickly salvage fossils as they are unearthed to avoid construction delays. The monitor shall also remove samples of sediments, which are likely to contain the remains of small fossil invertebrates and vertebrates. OCSD will halt or divert grading equipment to allow for removal of abundant or large s ecimens. Project Manager Project Manager Mitigation 4.6(c) CCR·2b) Project Collected samples of sediments shall be washed to recover small Manager invertebrate and vertebrate fossils. Recovered specimens shall be prepared so that they can be identified and permanently reserved. Mitigation 4.6(c) CCR-2c) Project Specimens shall be identified and curated and placed into a Manager repository with permanent retrievable storage. Mitigation 4.6(c) (CR·2d) Project A report of findings, including an itemized inventory of recovered Manager specimens, shall be prepared upon completion of the steps outlined above. The report shall include a discussion of the Orange County Sanitation District A-9 Construction OCSD Construction OCSD Construction OCSD Construction OCSD Construction OCSD ATTACHMENT A Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Field Notes Field Notes Field Notes Field Notes Field Notes April 20, 2005 Carbon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline Project Final Environmental Impact Report significance of all recovered specimens. The report and inventory, when submitted to the Orange County Sanitation District, would signify completion of the program to mitigate impacts on paleontological resources. Mitigation 4.6(d) (CR-3) If human remains are discovered during any activities that involve subsurface ground disturbance, there shall be no further excavation or disturbance of the site or any nearby area reasonably suspected to over1ie human remains until the Orange County Coroner has been informed and has detennined that no investigation of the cause of death is required, and if the remains are of Native American origin, the Native American Heritage Commission is contacted within 24 hours of the discovery, and the descendants from the deceased native Americans have made a recommendation to the landowner or the project proponent, for means of treating or disposing of, with appropriate dignity, the human remains and any associated grave goods as provided in California Public Resources Code Section 5097.98. :4}" . ; , Aesthetics, Light,,ahd G,lare Mitigation 4.7(a) CALG-1) Vegetated areas disturbed by pipeline construction activities shall be rehabilitated following completion of construction. Rehabilitation activities shall include replanting shrubs and plants that were removed for construction activities and reseeding areas with native ve etation. Mitigation 4.7(al CALG-2) Native vegetation shall be designed by a landscape architect as approved by OCSD. Orange County Sanitation District Project Manager Project Manager Project Manager A-10 Construction " <./ / Following completion construction Prior completion construction OCSD OCSD of to OCSD of ATTACHMENT A Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Field Notes Appropriate documentation (e.g. memo to file) Appropriate documentation (e.g. memo to file) April 20, 2005 Carbon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline Project Final Environmental Impact Report · Biological Respurces Mitigation 4.9(a} (8·1} Prior to construction, a qualified biologist shall survey the project site and visibly mark any California black walnut (Jug/ans califomica) tree(s) within 500 feet of the pipeline alignment. These trees shall be avoided during construction activities. If avoidance is not possible, the trees shall be replaced at a ratio of no less than 1 :1. All tree replacement shall be coordinated with the CDFG and a monitoring plan that identifies survival rates shall be develo ed. Mitigation 4.9(a} (8·2} If construction occurs during the raptor-nesting season (February 1 to June 30), a raptor nesting survey shall be conducted approximately seven days prior to commencement of construction to confirm the absence of nests within the proposed alignment or within 500 feet of the pipeline route. If nesting raptors are present, construction activities within 500 feet of the nest shall be limited to activities whose noise levels are no greater than 60dba durin nestin season. Mitigation 4.9(a} (8·3} A preconstruction survey shall be conducted to determine the location of any gnatcatchers within the proposed alignment or within 500 feet of the proposed pipeline if construction would occur during the nesting season (between March 15 and August 15). If gnatcatchers are present construction activities within 500 feet of the area of gnatcatcher activity shall be limited to activities that produce noise levels no greater than 60dba during nesting season. Orange County Sanitation District Project Manager Project Manager Project Manager A-11 Prior to OCSD/ construction California Department of Fish and Game Prior to OCSD/ construction California Department of Fish and Game Prior to OCSD/ construction California Department of Fish and Game ATTACHMENT A Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Appropriate documentation (e.g. memo to file) Appropriate documentation (e.g. memo to file) Appropriate documentation (e.g. memo to file) April 20, 2005 Carbon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline Project Final Environmental Impact Report Mitigation 4.9(a) (8·4) A preconstruction survey shall be conducted to determine the location of any least Bell's vireo within the proposed alignment or within 500 feet of the proposed pipeline if construction would occur during the nesting season (between March 15 and September 15). If vireos are present within the 500-foot buffer area, construction activities within 500 feet of the area of vireo activity shall be limited to activities that produce noise levels no reater than 60dba durin nestin season. Mitigation 4.9(b)(B-5a) Prior to construction activities the Orange County Sanitation District shall consult with the CDFG to determine the appropriate mitigation (contribution to a mitigation bank or dedication of land) for impacts to riparian habitat. Riparian habitat impacted by the ro osed ro· ect shall be re laced at a ratio of no less than 1: 1. Mitigation 4.9(b)(B-5b) Prior to construction activities the Orange County Sanitation District shall obtain a 1602 Streambed Alteration Agreement (SAA) from the California Department of Fish and Game. Impacts to lands of jurisdiction shall be mitigated by the dedication of re lacement habitat at a ratio of no less than 1 : 1. Mitigation 4.9(b)(B-5cl Prior to construction activities the Orange County Sanitation District shall obtain a 404 permit from the ACOE. Impacts to "waters of the U.S." shall be mitigated by the dedication of replacement habitat at a ratio or no less than 1: 1. Orange County Sanitation District Project Manager Project Manager Project Manager Project Manager A-12 Prior to OCSD/ construction California Department of Fish and Game Prior to OCSD/ construction California Department of Fish and Game Prior to OCSD/ construction California Department of Fish and Game Prior to OCSD/ construction United States Army Corps of Engineers ATTACHMENT A Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Appropriate documentation (e.g. memo to file) Appropriate documentation (e.g. memo to file) Appropriate documentation (e.g. memo to file) Appropriate documentation (e.g. memo to file) April 20, 2005 Caruon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline Project Final Environmental Impact Report ,4,10 Traffic< Mitigation 4.10(a) CT-1) Concurrent with grading permit applications, OCSD shall submit a Traffic Control Plan for review and approval by the City of Brea Engineer. The Traffic Control Plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following: • Using flagmen and signage to alert motorists and pedestrians; • Providing advance notice posted on Rose Drive and Vesuvius Drive; • Limiting the hours of construction per City ordinances; • Maintaining one through lane in each direction on Rose Drive durin eak hours; EDMS: 003790169 Orange County Sanitation District Project Manager A-13 Concurrent with City of Brea grading permit applications ATTACHMENT A Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Appropriate documentation (e.g. memo to file) April 20, 2005 FINDINGS OF FACT AND STATEMENT OF OvERRIDING CoNSIDERATIONS FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT CARBON CANYON DAM SEWER PIPELINE PROJECT (STATE CLEARINGHOUSE NO. 2004091119) 1.0 INTRODUCTION The Board of Directors of the Orange County Sanitation District ("OCSD") in approving the Final Environmental Impact Report (the "Final EIR") for the Carbon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline Project makes the findings of fact described below and adopts the Statement of Overriding Considerations presented at the end of these Findings. The "project" under consideration for purposes of OCSD's discretionary action is a new 5, 145-foot sewer pipeline located on land owned by the United States Army Corps of Engineers and currently uses as Carbon Canyon Regional Park and Carbon Canyon Dam. The potential environmental effects of the elements of the proposed project for the purposes of the indicated analysis under the California Environmental Quality Act rCEQA"), is described in this Resolution as the "project." 2.0 PROJECT SUMMARY The proposed Carbon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline Project consists of a new 5, 145-foot sewer pipeline in the City of Brea (refer to Exhibit 3.0-1, Regional Location and Exhibit 3.0-2, Local Vicinity, in the Draft EIR). The 27-inch pipeline would begin at the existing Carbon Canyon Pump Station in Carbon Canyon Regional Park and would tie-into the existing Carbon Canyon Interceptor at the intersection of Rose Drive and Vesuvius Drive (refer to Exhibit 3.0-3, Proposed Sewer Alignment and Photograph Location Map, in the Draft EIR). As part of the project, OCSD is considering upsizing the pipe, which would allow it to serve portions of unincorporated Los Angeles County and the City of Chino Hills in San Bernardino County that are in the Carbon Canyon sewer tributary. The Expanded Service Area Option would provide capacity to serve: • A proposed 2,614-acre portion of the Aera Master Planned Community (located within unincorporated Los Angeles County); • A 981-acre portion of the Firestone Boy Scout Camp (located within unincorporated Los Angeles County); and • The 80-acre Sleepy Hollow Estates development (located within the City of Chino Hills in San Bernardino County). This option would increase the tributary area the pipeline would serve by a total of approximately 3,675 acres. The proposed additional service areas are located immediately north of the existing OCSD service area boundary (refer to Exhibit 3.0-5, Proposed Project and Expanded Service Area Alternative, in the Draft EIR). The Expanded Service Area Option is an increase in the pipe size from 27 inches to a minimum of 30 inches. A pipe size of up to 36 inches may be required to accommodate flows but would not increase capacity beyond that described in Table 3.0-1, Projected Wastewater Service Demand. 2.1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION The recommended alignment of the pipeline takes into consideration functionality, construction constraints, future developments, hydraulics, and cost. Total length of the pipeline is 5, 145 feet (refer to Exhibit 3.0-3 in the Draft EIR). The pipeline would head south from the existing pump station, through the Breitburn oil well site, following the alignment of the existing Texaco sewer line. After approximately 1,400 feet, the pipeline would head west under the existing ridge. This portion of the pipeline would be constructed using micro-tunneling (trenchless technology), for a distance of approximately 1,200 feet. The trenchless portion of the pipeline will terminate on the Aera Energy property. The pipeline would then be trenched through an existing Christmas tree farm. However, Aera Energy has plans to develop the Christmas tree farm into single-family housing, currently known as the Brea Central Development. Therefore, the pipeline is aligned such that it would be constructed beneath a future roadway (based on the most current Brea Central Development plans). The final 300 feet of the pipeline is proposed to follow an existing access road before connecting into the Carbon Canyon Interceptor, located approximately 15 feet north of the intersection of Rose Drive and Vesuvius Drive. The purpose of constructing the final 300 feet through the existing access road is to avoid construction in Rose Drive, which would otherwise require extensive traffic control, street repair, and potential conflicts with the Metropolitan Water District (MWD) 96 inch Lower Feeder. 2.2 PROJECT OBJECTIVES The objective of the project is to install a gravity sewer pipeline so that OCSD can service existing and proposed wastewater flows and abandon the pump station and force mains. By eliminating this pump station, the OCSD would avoid the cost of having to upgrade the station, and also eliminate its ongoing operational and maintenance costs. The project's specific goals and objectives are as follows: • To increase sewer pipeline capacity to accommodate future wastewater flows from existing and proposed developments in the Carbon Canyon sewer tributary; • To provide capacity for expansion of OCSD's service area boundary in the Carbon Canyon sewer tributary; • To eliminate the need to upgrade the Carbon Canyon Pump Station; • To allow for the abandonment of the pump station. 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW AND PUBLIC PARTICIPATION OCSD conducted environmental review of the project as follows: • A Notice of Preparation and Initial Study for an environmental impact report for the proposed project was prepared and circulated to the State Clearinghouse, responsible agencies and other interested persons on September 22, 2004; • A public scoping meeting was held on October 19, 2004, to give the public the opportunity to provide comments as related to the proposed project and the issues the public would like addressed in the Draft EIR. • A Draft EIR was prepared according to the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA"), and distributed for public review on January 28, 2005, for the 45-day review period with the review period ending on March 15, 2005. Six comment letters were received before the close of the public review period. The specific responses to the written comments are in the Final EIR. • The Final EIR was prepared according to the requirements of the CEQA, and distributed for to the commenting agencies on April 27, 2005. • The Board of Directors has considered the Final EIR. 3.1 INDEPENDENT JUDGEMENT FINDING OCSD retained RBF Consulting to assist with the preparation of the Draft EIR and Final EIR. The Draft EIR and the Final EIR were prepared under the direction and supervision of OCSD. The Final EIR includes the documents, reports, technical appendices, correspondence, notices, minutes of public scoping meetings and related materials described in Final EIR. The Final EIR is on file with OCSD and is available for inspection and copying as a public record of OCSD by interested persons during the regular business hours of OCSD. The Final EIR reflects OCSD's independent judgment and analysis. The OCSD Board of Directors has considered the contents' of the Final EIR prior to the approval of the project. OCSD has exercised its independent judgment in reviewing and considering the contents of the Final EIR in accordance with Public Resources Code Section 21082.1 ( c)(3) in retaining an environmental consultant, directing the consultant in preparation of the Final EIR, as well as reviewing, analyzing, and revising other related material prepared by the consultant. 3.2 FINDINGS ON THE FINAL EIR The Final EIR has identified and discussed significant effects which may occur as a result of the project. With the implementation of the mitigation measures discussed in the Final EIR, most these effects can be mitigated to a level of less than significant as set forth in Section 3.6. However, there are certain significant effects which either cannot be fully mitigated or for which no feasible or practical mitigation currently exist, and these unavoidable significant impacts are discussed in Section 3. 7 of these Findings. The Board of Directors hereby finds that the mitigation measures summarized in the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan shall reduce all potential significant impacts of the Project to a level of less than significant, except as set forth in Section 3. 7. The Board of Directors hereby adopts all mitigation measures identified in the Final EIR. The Board of Directors hereby adopts the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan. 3.4 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND FINDINGS The detailed analysis of potential environmental impacts and proposed mitigation measures for the project, the Responses to Comments, and any revisions or omissions to the Draft EIR are presented in the Final EIR. The Final EIR evaluated ten (10) major environmental categories (land use and relevant planning; geology, soils, and seismicity; hydrology and water quality; air quality; noise; cultural resources; aesthetics, light, and glare; population and housing; biological resources, and traffic) for potential significant unavoidable impacts, including cumulative impacts. Both project-specific and cumulative impacts were evaluated. Except for the issues considered in Section 3.7, all of the other issues and sub-issues discussed in these Findings can be mitigated below a significant impact threshold. For those issues which cannot be mitigated below a level of significance (See Section 3. 7), overriding considerations exist which make impacts acceptable. In addition to the ten (10) major environmental categories addressed in the Final EIR, six (6) other major categories were found to be non-significant in the Initial Study prepared for the Project. OCSD concurs with the conclusions on these categories as outlined in the Initial Study (Appendix A of the Draft EIR) and find that no significant impacts have been identified as to those categories identified in the Initial Study and no further analysis is required. 3.5 LESS THAN SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS Certain effects for the project were found not to be significant and were identified as such in the initial study for the project. The basis on which the effects of the project found to be less than potentially significant were set forth in each section of the Final EIR. These impacts were found to be less than potentially significant for the reasons set forth in Section 7.0, Effects Found Not To Be Significant, of the Final EIR. The following issues were identified in the Initial Study (Appendix A of the Draft EIR) as having the potential to cause significant impact and were carried forward to the Final EIR for detailed evaluation. These issues were found, either on the basis of further analysis in the Final EIR or because the identified impacts have been fully mitigated, as having no potential to cause significant impact and therefore require no project-specific mitigation. Each resource issue is identified and the potential for significant adverse environmental effects is discussed below: LAND USE AND RELEVANT PLANNING Conflicts With Applicable Land Use Plans and Policies The EIR considered whether the project would conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the project (including, but not limited to the general plan, specific plan, local coastal program, or zoning ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect. The proposed project would traverse lands that are included within the Carbon Canyon Specific Plan, City of Brea General Plan, and County of Orange General Plan. The project would be an underground facility and would not require any zone changes or general plan amendment. Implementation of the proposed project would not conflict with applicable land use plans, policies, or regulations. The proposed pipeline has been designed to accommodate wastewater service demands for growth as identified within the County or Orange and City of Brea General Plans. As stated above, the project would not require a zone change or general plan amendment. The proposed tributary area is located within unincorporated Orange County and the City of Brea and is included within the service area identified within OCSD's 1999 Strategic Plan and Strategic Plan EIR. The proposed Carbon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline project is consistent with the goals and policies outlined in the Land Use Element of the Brea General Plan. The proposed project does not include any type of residential or commercial development within Olinda Village, Carbon Canyon, unincorporated Brea, or on hillsides governed by the City's hillside management ordinance. However, because the existing pump station is strategically located downgrade from a natural tributary, the proposed project has the ability to accommodate future gravity flow sewer from upstream areas in Carbon Canyon and unincorporated Brea. Because the proposed pipeline would have a diameter of at least 27 inches, it would be able to accommodate greater capacity from areas upstream, including future development in Carbon Canyon. The proposed project would not change any land use designations in either the City of Brea or in the unincorporated County of Orange. The proposed project would bring sewer service to the Aera Energy Brea Central property in the City of Brea and so would facilitate the residential development of the property. However, the Aera Energy Brea Central property in question has already been designated for single-family residential development, and extending sewer infrastructure is consistent with this designation. Aside from the Aera Energy Brea Central development, the proposed project would not extend sewer service beyond the areas already served by OCSD. Moreover, any proposals to extend service in order to accommodate future development projects upstream from the proposed Expanded Service Area Option would require separate environmental review. Additionally, note that the proposed Aera Energy Master Planned Community is currently undergoing separate environmental review, which would include discussion of potential impacts to land use and relevant planning. 3.6 POTENTIALLY SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS THAT CAN BE MITIGATED BELOW A LEVEL OF SIGNIFICANCE Public Resources Code Section 21081 states that no public agency shall approve or carry out a project for which an environmental impact report has been completed, which identifies one or more significant effects, unless the public agency makes one or more of the following findings: 1. Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant effects on the environment; 2. Those changes or alterations are within the responsibility and jurisdiction of another public agency and have been, or can and should be, adopted by that other agency; or 3. Specific economic, legal, social, technological, or other considerations, make infeasible the mitigation measures or alternatives identified in the Final EIR. Impacts in the following areas are potentially significant, but can be mitigated to a less than significant level, with the incorporation of the mitigation measures identified in the EIR: • Aesthetics, Light and Glare • Biological Resources • Geology, Soils and Seismicity • Cultural Resources • Hydrology and Water Quality • Noise • Traffic AESTHETICS, LIGHT AND GLARE Potential Impacts The EIR considered whether the project would have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista or substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings. Findings The following changes or alterations are hereby incorporated into the project: These mitigation measures reduce project impacts to a level of less than significant. Facts in Support of Findings Potential aesthetics, light and glare impacts from construction-related activities have been eliminated or substantially lessened to a level of less than significant by virtue of project design considerations and the mitigation measures identified in the Draft EIR that have been incorporated into the project. Mitigation measures such as replanting and reseeding areas impacted by project construction activities would be required and employed in order to reduce aesthetic impacts associated with construction activities to a less than significant level. Refer to Attachment A, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, for a complete listing of mitigation measures and monitoring requirements. AIR QUALITY Potential Impacts Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan? Violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation? Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is non-attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard (including releasing emissions which exceed quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors)? Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations? Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people? Findings Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant effects on the environment. Facts in Support of Findings Potential air quality impacts have been eliminated or substantially lessened to a level of less than significant by virtue of project design considerations and the mitigation measures identified in the Draft EIR and have been incorporated into the project. Short- term construction activities have the potential to create particulate matter and ozone precursor emissions of these criteria pollutants in excess of South Coast Air Quality Management District thresholds. Such emissions could potentially violate applicable air quality plan thresholds and could expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations. In addition, objectionable odors could be released during the connection process of the new pipeline to existing OCSD infrastructure. Mitigation in the form of dust control, regular maintenance of construction equipment, and an odor management plan would reduce potentially impacts to a level of less than significant. Refer to Attachment A, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, for a complete listing of mitigation measures and monitoring requirements. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Potential Impacts Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? Findings Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project that would mitigate or avoid the significant effects on the environment. Facts in Support of Findings Potential biological resources impacts have been eliminated or substantially lessened to a level of less than significant by virtue of project design considerations and the mitigation measures identified in the Draft EIR and have been incorporated into the project. The Coastal Gnat Catcher, the Least Bells Vireo, and raptor species have the potential to nest in trees that exist throughout the project site. CDFG regulations prohibit activities that disturb active raptor, gnatcatcher, or Least Bell's Vireo nest. Once nesting activity is completed, the CDFG protection typically ceases. The nesting season typically runs from February 1 to June 30. Impacts to nesting gnatcatcher, Least Bell's Vireo, or raptor species would be considered significant unless mitigated. With implementation of the recommended mitigation, potential impacts to gnatcatcher, Least Bell's Vireo, or raptor species would be reduced to a less than significant level. In addition, the project site contains riparian habitats that are within the jurisdiction of the United States Army Corps of Engineers, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, and the California Department of Fish and Game. The project shall be required to obtain the necessary permits including, but not limited to, a 1602 Streambed Alteration Agreement (SAA) from the California Department of Fish and Game and a 404 permit from the United States Army Corps of Engineers. With implementation of the recommended mitigation, potential impacts to riparian habitats would be reduced to a level of less than significant. Refer to Attachment A, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, for a complete listing of mitigation measures and monitoring requirements. CULTURAL RESOURCES Potential Impacts Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to CEQA Guidelines §15064. 5? Directly or indirectly destroy a unique pa/eontological resource or site or unique geologic feature? Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries? Findings Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which mitigate or avoid the significant effects on the environment. Facts in Support of Findings Potential biological resources impacts have been eliminated or substantially lessened to a level of less than significant by virtue of project design considerations and the mitigation measures identified in the Draft EIR and have been incorporated into the project. No known archaeological or paleontological resources exist in the project site, nor do any cemeteries. However, the potential exists that undiscovered archaeological or paleontological artifacts as well as human remains could be found during construction activities. Mitigation including archaeological and paleontological monitoring has been incorporated into the project. With implementation of the recommended mitigation, potential impacts to cultural resources would be reduced to a level of less than significant. Refer to Attachment A, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, for a complete listing of mitigation measures and monitoring requirements. GEOLOGY, SOILS, AND SEISMICITY Potential Impacts Seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction? Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project, and potentially result in on-or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse? Findings Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project that would mitigate or avoid the potentially significant effects on the environment. Facts in Support of Findings Potential geology, soils, and seismicity impacts have been eliminated or substantially lessened to a level of less than significant by virtue of project design considerations and the mitigation measures identified in the Draft EIR and have been incorporated into the project. Potential seismic-related ground failure and liquefaction impacts can be mitigated to a less than significant level through the use of flexible joints. Soil erosion associated with construction activities can be mitigated to a less than significant level through the implementation of an Erosion Control Plan and compliance with the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP) as required by the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB). Potential impacts related to unstable soils can be mitigated to a level of less than significant through the use of flexible joints and compliance with OSHA regulations concerning trench safety. Refer to Attachment A, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, for a complete listing of mitigation measures and monitoring requirements. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Potential Impacts Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements? Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff? Findings Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project that would mitigate or avoid the significant effects on the environment. Facts in Support of Findings Potential hydrology and water quality impacts have been eliminated or substantially lessened to a level of less than significant by virtue of project design considerations and the mitigation measures identified in the Draft EIR and have been incorporated into the project. As part of the compliance with the NPDES requirements, a Notice of Intent (NOi) would need to be prepared and submitted to the Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board providing notification and intent to comply with the State of California General Permit. Prior to construction, a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) would be required for the construction activities at the project site. Implementation of recommended mitigation (i.e., compliance with the NPDES requirements) would reduce construction-related impacts to water quality to a level of less than significant. Refer to Attachment A, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, for a complete listing of mitigation measures and monitoring requirements. NOISE Potential Impacts Exposure of persons to or generation of noise levels in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies? Result in a substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? Findings Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project that would mitigate or avoid the significant effects on the environment. Facts in Support of Findings Potential noise impacts have been eliminated or substantially lessened to a level of less than significant by virtue of project design considerations and the mitigation measures identified in the Draft EIR and have been incorporated into the project. Construction noise would occur during the duration of construction. These impacts, however, would be short-term, and would conclude upon completion of the grading and construction. Compliance with the recommended mitigation measures (e.g., limiting activities to the hours between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., muffling/placement of construction equipment, stockpiling/staging of construction vehicles, avoidance of sensitive receptors by truck routes, and public notification of construction activities) would reduce construction- related noise impacts to a level of less than significant. Refer to Attachment A, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, for a complete listing of mitigation measures and monitoring requirements. TRAFFIC Potential Impacts Cause an increase in traffic which is substantial in relation to the existing traffic load and capacity of the street system (i.e., result in a substantial increase in either the number of vehicle trips, the volume to capacity ratio on roads, or congestion at intersections)? Exceed, either individually or cumulatively, a level of service standard established by the county congestion management agency for designated roads or highways? Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? Result in inadequate emergency access? Findings Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project that would mitigate or avoid the significant effects on the environment. Facts in Support of Findings Potential traffic and circulation impacts have been eliminated or substantially lessened to a level of less than significant by virtue of project design considerations and the mitigation measures identified in the Draft EIR and have been incorporated into the project. To reduce impacts related to construction-related traffic impacts to congestion and safety, a Traffic Control Plan shall be submitted prior to constriction for review and approval by the City of Brea Engineer. Implementation of the recommended mitigation would reduce impacts to a level of less than significant. Refer to Attachment A, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, for a complete listing of mitigation measures and monitoring requirements. 3.7 IMPACTS ANALYZED IN THE FINAL EIR AND DETERMINED TO BE SIGNIFICANT AND UNAVOIDABLE With the implementation of all available and feasible mitigation measures recommended in the Final EIR, the following adverse impacts of the proposed project stated below are considered to be significant and unavoidable, both individually and cumulatively, based upon information in the Final EIR, in the record. These impacts are considered significant and unavoidable despite the mitigation measures which are incorporated and which would reduce impacts to the extent feasible: Both short-term construction-related impacts and long-term vehicular air quality impacts have been identified as significant and unavoidable even with implementation of mitigation measures. POPULATION AND HOUSING Unavoidable Significant Impact Induce substantial population growth in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of roads or other infrastructure)? Findings No mitigation exists to reduce the level of significance of this environmental impact. Specific economic, legal, social, technological, or other considerations, including considerations for the provision of employment opportunities for highly trained workers, make infeasible the mitigation measures or alternatives identified in the environmental impact report. Facts in Support of Finding As detailed within the Draft EIR, despite the implementation of stated mitigation measures within Section 4.9, Population and Housing, significant and unavoidable impacts from growth inducement remains. This impact is overridden by the project benefits as set forth in the following Statement of Overriding Considerations (Section 3.10 below). There are no feasible alternatives that could avoid this significant impact, as set forth in the following Findings Regarding Project Alternatives. The proposed project would remove a barrier to growth (i.e. the Carbon Canyon Pump Station), and the Expanded Service Area Option would expand OCSD's capacity to serve areas not currently served by wastewater service. The City of Brea General Plan EIR, the City of Chino Hills General Plan EIR, and the County of Los Angeles General Plan EIR have all identified various potentially significant impacts that could result from future population growth. No mitigation exists to reduce the level of significance of this environmental impact. Thus, population and housing impacts in this regard are considered an unavoidable significant impact of the Carbon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline Project. 3.8 PROJECT ALTERNATIVES Four (4) project alternatives are discussed in Section 6.0 of the Final EIR and the potential significance for all of the alternatives are analyzed in Section 6.0 of the Final EIR. The Board of Directors has considered these alternatives for the development of the project and makes the following findings: NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE None of the impacts associated with the proposed development and construction activities would occur if the "No Project" alternative were selected. Implementation of this alternative would leave in place the existing Carbon Canyon Pump Station and sewer pipeline, and would avoid any adverse physical or environmental impacts associated with the proposed project. Existing aesthetic, cultural, geologic, land use and relevant planning and population and housing conditions in the area would remain the same. Air quality, biological, hydrological, noise, and traffic impacts due to pipeline construction activities would not occur with the "No Project" alternative. The "No Project" Alternative also eliminates the expanded OCSD service area option. As a result, growth-inducing impacts from that option would not occur with the "No Project" Alternative. The "No Project" alternative fails to meet the basic project objectives because the existing sewer force mains are expected to exceed capacity in the near future and new sewer facilities will be required. "ALTERNATIVE ALIGNMENT 1" ALTERNATIVE This alternative requires the proposed pipeline to connect to an existing manhole at the Carbon Canyon Pump Station and immediately head east to avoid the Breitburn oil well site, before turning to the south. If the pipeline were to take this route, the pipeline must cross beneath the existing 66-inch/90-inch storm drain line. By doing so, the gravity sewer line would have an immediate drop in elevation of 15 feet, which would significantly affect the slope of the pipeline throughout. The pipe would also traverse through an existing storm water retention basin. Potential impacts are discussed below. Land Use and Relevant Planning The proposed alternative would not change any land use designations. The expanded service area boundary option would remain unchanged under this alternative. Geology, Soils, and Seismicity The section of the alternative alignment that would traverse the existing storm water retention basin is considered to be a geologically unstable area with potential for soil liquefaction during an earthquake; this would pose a number of design problems. Hydrology and Water Quality This alternative alignment passes through areas used for storm water runoff control including an existing ACOE storm water detention basin. Carbon Canyon Regional Park officials noted that this alignment traverses an area traditionally prone to flooding, often at heights of 10 feet or more. OCSD maintenance personnel indicated that flooding in the alignment area could inundate the pipeline with storm water and limit the wastewater capacity of the surrounding sewer infrastructure. In addition, pipeline maintenance access would be severely limited during rainy conditions. Air Quality Short-term impacts from dust, construction-related emissions, and odors would be similar to those of the preferred alignment. Long-term impacts would not be significant because the pipeline would be gravity fed and not require the use of mechanical hydraulic pumps. Noise Short-term impacts from construction-related noise would be similar to those of the preferred alignment. Long-term impacts would not be significant because the pipeline would be gravity fed and not require the use of mechanical hydraulic pumps. Cultural Resources No known cultural resources exist in the project area. Potential short-term impacts from construction-related activities would be similar to those of the preferred alignment. Long- term impacts on cultural resources under this alternative are anticipated to be less than significant. Aesthetics, Light, and Glare Short-term impacts from construction-related aesthetics would be similar to those of the preferred alignment. There would be no long-term impacts because the pipeline would be underground. Population and Housing Population and housing impacts from this alternative alignment would remain significant and unavoidable. Impacts on population and housing from the Expanded Service Area Option would remain unchanged. Biological Resources The initial reach of this alternative alignment would traverse wetlands and critical occupied habitat of the Federally Listed Endangered Species least Bell's vireo. This alignment would require a Section 7 Permit consultation and a taking of habitat for a Federally listed species. The mitigation and cost of this initial reach of pipeline would be considered prohibitive and the destruction of the habitat unnecessary. Traffic Short-term impacts from construction-related traffic would be similar to those of the preferred alignment. There would be no long-term traffic impacts. Conclusion This alternative is not feasible because ACOE is almost certain to deny this alignment, given the taking of an endangered species that would be necessary and the availability of other alignments that would not impact a Federally Listed Endangered Species. In addition, the significance of the geological and hydrological impacts from the section of the pipeline that would traverse the flood-prone areas and detention basin makes this alignment infeasible. "ALTERNATIVE ALIGNMENT 2" ALTERNATIVE This alternative requires the proposed pipeline to connect to an existing manhole at the Pump Station and immediately head west to avoid the Breitburn oil well site, before turning to the south and ultimately joining the preferred alignment prior to the start of the 1,200-foot micro-tunnel reach. If the pipeline were to take this route, the initial reach of the pipeline must be constructed through an existing Park maintenance yard and at depths of 30 feet. Land Use and Relevant Planning The proposed alternative would not change any land use designations. The Expanded Service Area Option would remain unchanged under this alternative. Geology, Soils, and Seismicity The geologic impacts from this alternative are expected to be much more significant than those of the preferred alignment because the alignment would be trenched into a hillside at depths of up to 30 feet. The trench would require extensive stabilization that would significantly cut into the hillside. In addition, OCSD's preference for a maintenance access road over the alignment could potentially require further hillside stabilization measures. In addition, hillside stabilization measures would have to take into account the likelihood of flooding from storm water runoff backed up behind Carbon Canyon Dam. Hydrology and Water Quality Short-term impacts could potentially be more significant from pipeline construction in the maintenance yard, because construction-related runoff might contain contaminants from maintenance yard residue. Long-term impacts would be similar to those of the preferred alignment. Air Quality Short-term impacts from dust, construction-related em1ss1ons, and odors would be similar to those of the preferred alignment. Long-term impacts would not be significant because the pipeline would be gravity fed and not require the use of mechanical pumps. Noise Short-term impacts from construction-related noise would be similar to those of the preferred alignment. Long-term impacts would not be significant because the pipeline would be gravity fed and not require the use of mechanical hydraulic pumps. Cultural Resources No known cultural resources exist in the project area. Potential short-term impacts from construction-related activities would be similar to those of the preferred alignment. Long- term impacts on cultural resources under this alternative are anticipated to be less than significant. Population and Housing Population and housing impacts from this alternative alignment would remain significant and unavoidable. Impacts on population and housing from the Expanded Service Area Option would remain unchanged. Aesthetics, Light, and Glare Short-term impacts from construction-related aesthetics would be similar to those of the preferred alignment. There would be no long-term impacts because the pipeline would be underground. Biological Resources Short-term impacts from construction-related activities would be similar to those of the preferred alignment. Long-term impacts would be less than significant because the pipeline alignment would avoid wetlands and the critical occupied habitat of the Federally-listed least Bell's vireo. Traffic Short-term impacts from construction-related traffic would be similar to those of the preferred alignment. There would be no long-term traffic impacts. Conclusion This alternative is not feasible because of the extensive hillside stabilization that would be required for construction and for the maintenance access road. In addition, this alignment would temporarily disrupt maintenance operations of Carbon Canyon Regional Park, and necessitate the temporary closure of a bike/pedestrian trail that runs between Carbon Canyon Regional Park and Carbon Canyon Dam. Overall, this alternative alignment would have significant geologic impacts and would provide no environmental enhancement. "SMALLER SEWER PIPE" ALTERNATIVE Under the "Smaller Sewer Pipe Alternative," the size of the proposed Carbon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline would be reduced to 24 inches. The pipeline would still follow the preferred alignment. As a gravity sewer pipeline, it would not need the Carbon Canyon Pump Station to provide a hydraulic gradient. However, a smaller pipe size would not be able to accommodate the projected flows, as the proposed pipe size would, and that would likely necessitate the continued operation of the two existing force mains and the Carbon Canyon Pump Station. In addition, the Expanded Service Area Option would no longer be feasible. Land Use and Relevant Planning This alternative would not change any land use designations. However, the Expanded Service Area Option would no longer be feasible because the capacity of the pipe would not accommodate wastewater flows from those areas. Therefore, this alternative would not impact land use and relevant planning in the proposed expanded service areas. Geology, Soils, and Seismicity The short-term and long-term geologic impacts from this alternative are similar to those of the preferred alignment. Hydrology and Water Quality The short-term and long-term hydrological impacts from this alternative are similar to those of the preferred alignment. Air Quality The short-term dust, construction-related emissions, and odor impacts as well as long- term air quality impacts from this alternative are similar to those of the preferred alignment. Noise Short-term impacts from construction-related noise would be similar to those of the preferred alignment. Long-term impacts could potentially be significant because the Carbon Canyon Pump Station would still remain operational. Cultural Resources The short-term and long-term cultural resource impacts from this alternative are similar to those of the preferred alignment. Population and Housing The short-term and long-term population and housing impacts from this alternative are similar to those of the preferred alignment. However, the Expanded Service Area Option is no longer feasible because the capacity of the pipe would not accommodate wastewater flows from those areas. Therefore, this alternative would not impact population and housing in the proposed expanded service areas. Aesthetics, Light, and Glare The short-term impacts from this alternative would be similar to those of the preferred alignment. Long-term impacts to aesthetics could potentially occur because of the continued operation of the Carbon Canyon Pump Station in Carbon Canyon Regional Park. Biological Resources The short-term impacts from this alternative would be similar to those of the preferred alignment. The long-term impacts from this alignment would be less than significant because it avoids wetlands and the critical occupied habitat of the Federally-listed least Bells vireo. Traffic The short-term construction related impacts are similar to those of the preferred alignment. There would be no long-term traffic impacts. Conclusion The smaller sewer pipe alternative would not significantly change the potential impacts of the project. However, it would not satisfy all of the project's objectives, including abandonment of the Carbon Canyon Pump Station and providing capacity for the Expanded Service Area Option. ENVIRONMENTALLY SUPERIOR ALTERNATIVE The UNo Project" Alternative would be environmentally superior to the proposed project, but CEQA requires identification of an environmentally superior alternative from among the other project alternatives. Of the three remaining alternatives, the "Smaller Sewer Pipe" alternative is the most superior from an environmental standpoint. Although this alternative's short-term construction-related impacts and the long-term operational impacts are virtually identical to those of the proposed project, the project would not have the potential to directly facilitate future population growth in areas outside of the existing OCSD service boundary and also restrict wastewater service to future development within the existing OCSD service boundary. For this reason, the "Smaller Sewer Pipe" Alternative is considered the "Environmentally Superior" Alternative. 3.9 PROJECT BENEFITS The following benefits would occur as a result of the Carbon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline Project implementation: • OCSD will be able to abandon the Carbon Canyon Pump Station • OCSD will realize cost savings from no longer needing to maintain and power the hydraulic pumps • OCSD will have the capacity to accommodate projected wastewater flows from the existing development within its service boundary • OCSD will have the option of upsizing the pipe so as to expand its capacity to serve portions of unincorporated Los Angeles County and the City of Chino Hills. Development of the proposed project would provide OCSD with capacity to accommodate planned growth, abandon a facility that is approaching the end of its useful life, and allow it to better serve a changing and growing area. 3.10 STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS All of the project's significant adverse impacts can be mitigated to a level of less than significant through implementation of feasible mitigation measures identified in the Final EIR, except for the growth-inducing impact described below. This significant adverse impact would remain even after implementation of all feasible mitigation measures identified in the Final EIR. Thus, this significant adverse impact is unavoidable. GROWTH INDUCING IMPACT -POPULATION AND HOUSING Implementation of the Carbon Canyon Dam Sewer Pipeline Project would remove a barrier to growth (i.e. the Carbon Canyon Pump Station). Removal of this barrier could facilitate growth in the City of Brea, the County of Los Angeles, the County of Orange, and the City of Chino Hills. The planning documents of each respective jurisdiction identify significant and unavoidable impacts from future growth, as summarized below: City of Brea General Plan EIR (2003) The Brea General Plan EIR identifies the following impacts as potentially significant after mitigation: • Increased traffic volumes associated with ambient growth and potential future development in Carbon Canyon. No mitigation is available because of the topographical and right-of-way constraints. • Air pollution emissions from new vehicle trips and stationary sources that will exceed SCAQMD thresholds for carbon Monoxide, particulate matter, and reactive organic compounds. City of Chino Hills General Plan EIR (1994) The Chino Hills General Plan EIR identifies the following impacts as potentially significant after mitigation: • Exposure of additional people and structures to geologic hazards, including earthquakes. • Air pollution emissions from new vehicle trips and stationary sources that will exceed SCAQMD thresholds. • Unpredictable drought conditions may decrease water supplies available to city. • Some properties in Chino Hills may be subject to flooding. • Water runoff will increase with new development. • Urbanization of undeveloped lands will result in the reduction of natural plant and animal species. • The Chino Hills General Plan will not meet SCAG's jobs-housing ratio. • The Chino Hills General Plan will result in development, resulting in an increase of vehicle trips in the city. • The General and Specific Plans allow urban uses on the City's agricultural preserve. • Implementation of the General and Specific Plans will result in a need for additional parkland. County of Los Angeles General Plan EIR (1979) County of Los Angeles General Plan, Supplement to the Final EIR (1980) The County of Los Angeles General Plan EIR (and supplement) identifies the following impacts as potentially significant after mitigation: • Encroachment of development into fault zones and unstable slopes. • Encroachment of development into areas with soils constraints for development. • Encroachment of development into floodplains, watershed areas). • Encroachment of development into high fire hazard zones. • Increase in noise levels. • Encroachment of development into Significant Ecological Areas. • Encroachment of development into sand and gravel and petroleum resource areas. • Encroachment of development into existing agriculture or prime land areas. • Encroachment of development into cultural resource areas. • Encroachment of development into scenic open space and change in scale on recycled land. • Increase in public service costs. • Change in vehicle miles traveled. • Increase in waste generation. General potential growth impacts from future developments have been identified in the respective General Plan EIRs. More specific analysis would be provided as projects are proposed in these respective areas. Further analysis is not feasible at this time as it would be speculative. The Project will create the substantial benefits described above. The Board of Directors has balanced the project's benefits against the project's significant unavoidable growth inducing impact. The Board of Directors finds that the Project's benefits outweigh the Project's significant unavoidable impacts, and the impacts are therefore considered acceptable in light of the Project's benefits. The Board of Directors finds that each of the benefits described above is an overriding consideration, independent of the other benefits, that warrants approval of the project notwithstanding the project's significant unavoidable impact: 3.11 ADOPTION OF A MONITORING PLAN FOR THE CEQA MITIGATION MEASURES Section 21081.6 of the Public Resources Code requires OCSD to adopt a monitoring or reporting program regarding the changes in the project and mitigation measures imposed to lessen or avoid significant effects on the environment. The Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan included as Attachment A in the Final EIR is hereby adopted by the Board of Directors, and the Board of Directors hereby find that this plan satisfies CEQA's mitigation monitoring requirements: • The Mitigation Monitoring Plan is designed to ensure compliance with the changes in the project and mitigation measures imposed on the project during project implementation; and • Measures to mitigate or avoid significant effects on the environment are fully enforceable through permit conditions, agreements or other measures. EDMS 003790165