The URL can be used to link to this page

Home My WebLink AboutResolution 2014-002 RESOLUTION N®0 2014-002 RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL, OF THE CITY OF ATASCADER0, CALIFORNIA, CERTIFYING PROPOSED NEGATIVE DECLARATION 2013-0003 PREPARED FOR. THE ATASCADERO CLIMATE ACTION PIAN (Cite of Atascader-o) WHEREAS, the State of California adopted Assembly Bill (AB) 32, known as the "California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006"which requires that California's Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions be reduced to 1990 levels by the year 2020, and the AB 32 Climate Change Scoping Plan (2008) calls on local governments to reduce GHG emissions in their jurisdictions to approximately 15 percent below 2005 levels; and, WHEREAS,the City of Atascadero has prepared a Climate Action Plan as a"road map" on how the City will reduce GHG emissions through various actions and measures; and, WHEREAS, an Initial Study and Proposed Negative Declaration 2013-0003 were prepared for the project and made available for public review in accordance with the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act(CEQA); and, WHEREAS, pursuant to the Statutes and Guidelines of the California Environmental Quality Act(CEQA), and the City's Procedures for Implementing CEQA, an Initial Study and a Draft Negative Declaration was prepared and circulated for public review and comment (see Exhibit A); and, WHEREAS, public notice of the proposed Draft Negative Declaration was posted as required by Section 21092 of the Public Resources Code; and, WHEREAS, one comment letter was received from the Native American Heritage Commission in regard to the Draft Negative Declaration and Initial Study, and the City reviewed the comments and determined no additional mitigation measures were required, as noted in the response to comments(Exhibit B); and, WHEREAS, the City Council. held a duly noticed public hearing on January 14, 2014 following the close of the public review period, to consider the Initial Study and Proposed Negative Declaration prepared for the Climate Action Plan; and, WHEREAS, based on. the information and analysis contained in the Initial Study prepared for this project, the City Council has determined that there is no substantial evidence that there would be a significant impact on the environment as a result of implementation of the Climate Action Plan; and, City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014002 Page 2 of 55 NOW THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Atascadero, hereby resolves to certify Proposed Negative Declaration 2013-0003 prepared for the Climate Action Plan in accordance with the Statutes and Guidelines of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the City's Procedures for Implementing CEQA, based on the following Findings, and as shown in Exhibit A and B: 1. The Proposed Negative Declaration has been completed in compliance with CEQA; and, 2. The Climate Action Plan does not have the potential to degrade the environment; and, 3. The Climate Action Plan will not achieve short-term to the disadvantage of long term environmental goals; and, 4. The Climate Action Plan does not have impacts which are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable;and, 5. The Climate Action Plan. will not cause substantial adverse effects on human beings either directly or indirectly; and, 6. Comments were received from the Native American Heritage Commission and responses prepared, as identified in the Negative Declaration addendum attached to the Initial Study. EXHIBIT A: Legative Declaration and Initial Study 2013-0003 EXHIBIT B: Addendum: Response to Comments City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014002 Page 3 of 55 On motion by Council Member Kelley and seconded by Council Member Moreno,the foregoing Resolution is hereby adopted in,its entirety on the following roll call vote: AYES: NOES: None ABSENT: None ADOPTED: January 28,2014 C&V OF ATASOADkRO Tom 0' ey, mayor ATTEST: Marcia Torgerson., Cityerk er APPROV�D AST-Q FORM: Brian Pierik,City Attorney City of Atascadero Resolution No.2044-002 Page 4 of 55 EXHIBIT A. Negative Declaration and Initial Study 2013-0003 See Following City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014002 ADERo (LDNI)OFt EDN Page 5 of 55 ATASC CITY tit, FILED Ni III's W 9 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT NOV 0 8 JRIE L RDDEWkl�o rovam" NOTICE OF INTENT TO ADOPT PROPOSED NEGATIVE DECLARATION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Environmental I Coordinator of the Cin, of Atascadero, has completed a reviem,of the following project and is proposing the following environmental determination: Project Sponsen City of Atascadero 6500 Palma Avenue Atascadero.CA 93422 Project Title. City of AtascaderoClimate Action Plan{CAP) Proiect Location: i City of Atascadero(city-wide) Project 4The—Climate Action Plan(CAP)is a policy document that sets forth policies and programs Descriptiori: (collectively referred to as"CAP measures"or"climate action measures")and implementation actions to help the City of Atascadero reduce its greenhouse gag(GHG)emissions and prepare for the anticipated effects of climate change.CEQA requires the analysis of physical impacts on the 1111 environment.As such,the impact analysis focuses on adoption APimplementation i n of the C and of the climate action measures and actions and whether they would result in physical environmental impacts.It should be noted that the CAP does not propose any land use or zoning changes..nor does it include any site-specific development.Further.'my future site-specific discretionaryprojects would be subject to additional environmental review pursuant to CEQA. ........... Environmental Begins:November 8,2013 Review Dates: Ends: December 7,2013 Electronic Public IThis Document can be found electronically in PDF format on the City of Review- I Atascadero Website: hftP://wwm?.at scadero.omienvironmentaldocs ..... .... Proposed Based on the Initial Study prepared for the project, a Negative Declaration is proposed. The Environmental Negative Declaration isav ailab)e for public review from 11/8/13 through 12/7/13 at 6500 Palma Determination: Avenue, Community Development. Department from 830 &in. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Atej;interested per may re OD Mitigated,Negative Declaration and 0 ectfiles. Questions should be directed to ie Sen' Planner, at 0-3448. Warren Trace,Communi Date' Page 2 of 2 City of At ade o Resol i N 2 02 Page �a ■� a;n IR � �XNA' ' 1879Q;� CITY OF A TAS CARER 0 PROPOSED NEGATIVE DEC ARLA 'ION #2023-0003 6907 El Camino Real Atascadero,CA 93422 805/461-5000 Project Sponser: Cin,of Atascadero 6500 Palma Avenue Atasc4de.o,,CA 93422 Project Title: 1 City of Atascadero Climate Action Pian(CAP) _ _ 3 Project Location: Cin,of Atascadero(city-wide; Project" I The Climate Action Pian(CAP)is a policy document that sets forth policies and program;; Description: lcoilectively referred to as"CAP measures"or"climate action measures")and implementation j i actions to help the City of Arascadero reduce its greenhouse gas(GI-IG)emissions and prepare for li the anticipated effects of climate change. CEOA requires the analysis of physical impacts on the ' environment.As such.the impact analysis focuses on adoption of the CAI'and impiementation of the climate action measures and actions and whether they would result in physical environmental impacts.It should he noted that the CAP does not propose any land use or zoning changes,nor does it include any site-specific development.Further,any future site-specific discretionary projects would be subject to additional environmental review pursuant to CEQA. Findings: 1. The project does not have the potential to degrade the environment. 2, The project will not achieve short-term to the disadvantage of long-term environmental goals. 3. The project does not have impacts which are individually limited,but cumulatively considerable. 4. The proiect will not cause substantial adverse effects on human beings either directly or indirectly. Determination: Based on the above findings,and the information contained in the Initial Study(made a part hereof by reference and on file in the Community Development Department),it has been determined that the above project will not have an adverse impact on the environment when the following mitigation measures are incorporated into the project(see attachment). Prepared Sy: F��.w .:talhe Taylor,Senior Planner, City gf Alascadero Prepared with assistance of Rincon Consuliants, Inc. Date Posted: November 8,2013 Pub6ic Review Ends: December 7,2013 Attachments: - Draft City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan(Dated October 2013) - Draft.Initial Study&Negative Declaration To view the complete attachments,please visit the City=of Atascadero Website: httu;//wwvt.atascadero.ora/envirc►nmentaldocs City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 7 of 55 Citi f Atascadero Climate Action Plan Draft .Initial Study and Negative Declaration Prepared for: City of Atascadero 6500 Palma Avenue Atascadero, CA 93422 Contact: Callie Taylor, Senior Planner ctaylor(a-)atascadero.org or (805)470-3448 Prepared with the assistance of I2incon Consultants, Inc. 1530 Monterey Street, Suite D San Luis Obispo, California 9340.1 November 2013 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 8 of 55 This page intentionally left blank City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 9 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Legative Declaration " ,A BLE OF CONTENTS Page Introduction LegalAuthority................................................................................................................................1 Impact Analysis and Significance Classification.............................................................................2 Initial Study ProjectTitle......................................................................................................................................3 Lead Agency Name and Address.....................................................................................................3 Contact Person and Phone Number.................................................................................................3 ProjectLocation...............................................................................................................................3 Project Sponsor's Name and Address..............................................................................................3 GeneralPlan Designation................................................................................................................3 Zoning ............................................................................................................................................3 Descriptionof Project......................................................................................................................3 Surrounding Land Uses and Setting................................................................................................9 Other Public Agencies Whose Approval is Required................ Environmental Factors Potentially Affected..................................................................................10 Determination................................................................................................................................10 Evaluation of Environmental Impacts...........................................................................................11 Aesthetics.................................................................................................................................11 Agriculture and Forest Resources............................................................................................14 AirQuality...............................................................................................................................15 Biological Resources...............................................................................................................17 CulturalResources...................................................................................................................21 Geologyand Soils.......................... .......................................................................................22 Greenhouse Gas Emissi ...ons......................................................................................................25 Hazards and Hazardous Materials...........................................................................................26 Hydrology and Water Quality..................................................................................................28 LandUse and Planning............................................................................................................30 Mineral Resources...................................................................................................................31 Noise........................................................................................................................................32 Population and Housing...........................................................................................................33 PublicServices.........................................................................................................................34 Recreation................................................................................................................................36 Transportation/Traffic..............................................................................................................37 Utilities and Service Systems...................................................................................................39 Mandatory Findings of Significance........................................................................................40 References......................................................................................................................................42 City of Atascadero City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 10 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration This page intentionally left blank City of Atascadero 'ri City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 11 of 55 City of Atescadero Climate Action Pian Initial Study—Negative Declaration INTRODUCTION LEGAL AUTHORITY This Initial Study/Negative Declaration(IS/ND)has been prepared in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act(CEQA) Guidelines and relevant provisions of CEQA of 1970, as amended. Initial Study. Section 15063(c)of the CEQA Guidelines defines an Initial Study as the proper preliminary method of analyzing the potential environmental consequences of a project. The purposes of an Initial Study are: 1) To provide the Lead Agency with the necessary information to decide whether to prepare an Environmental Impact Report(EIR) or a Negative Declaration(ND); 2) To enable the Lead Agency to modify a project,mitigating adverse impacts,thus avoiding the need to prepare an ETR;and 3) To provide sufficient technical analysis of the environmental effects of a project to permit a judgment based on the record as a whole,that the environmental effects of a project have been adequately mitigated or require further in-depth study in an EIR. Negative Declaration or Mitigated Negative Declaration. Section 15070 of the CEQA Guidelines states that a public agency shall prepare a negative declaration or mitigated negative declaration for a project subject to CEQA when: 1) The initial study shows that there is no substantial evidence,in light of the whole record before the agency,that the project may have a significant effect on the environment;or 2) The Initial Study identifies potentially significant effects but: a.) Revisions in the project plans or proposals made by,or agreed to by the applicant More a proposed mitigated negative declaration and initial study are released for public review would avoid the effects or mitigate the effects to a point where clearly no significant effects would occur;and b) There is no substantial evidence,in light of the whole record before the agency,that the project as revised may have a significant effect on the environment. An IS/ND may be used to satisfy the requirements of CEQA when a proposed project would have no significant unmitigable effects on the environment. As discussed further in subsequent sections of this document,implementation of the proposed,project would not result in any significant effects on the environment that cannot be reduced to below a level of significance. City of Atascadera 1 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 12 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan initial Studer—Negative Declaration IMPACT ANAL`Y'SIS AND SIGNIFICANCE CLASSIFICATION The following sections of this IS/ND provide discussions of the possible environmental effects of adoption and implementation of the proposed project for specific issue areas that have been identified in the CEQA Initial Study Checklist.For each issue area,potential effects are evaluated. A"significant effect"is defined by Section 15382 of the CEQA Guidelines as"a substantial, or potentially substantial, adverse change in any of the physical conditions within the area affected by a project,including land,air,water,minerals,flora,fauna, ambient noise, and objects of historic or aesthetic significance." According to the CEQA Guidelines,"an economic or social change by itself shall not be considered a significant effect on the environment,but may be considered in determining whether the physical change is significant." City of Atascadero 2 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 13 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration INITIAL STUDY- NEGATIVE DECLARATION L PROJECT TITLE: City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan(CAP) 2. LEAD AGENCY NAME AND ADDRESS: City of Atascadero 6500 Palma Avenue Atascadero,CA 93422 3. CONTACT PERSON AND PHONE NUMBER: Contact:Callie Taylor, Senior Planner ctaylor@ataseadero.org or(805)470-3448 4. PROJECT LOCATION: City of Atascadero (city-wide) 5. PROJECT SPONSOR'S NAME AND ADDRESS: City of Atascadero 6500 Palma Avenue Atascadero,CA 93422 6. GENERAL PLAN DESIGNATION: The plan would be implemented throughout the City and would occur in all General Plan designations. 7. ZONING: The plan would be implemented throughout the City in all zoning desigiiations. 8. DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT: The Climate Action Plan (CAP) is a policy document that sets forth policies and programs (collectively referred to as "CAP measures" or"climate action measures") and implementation actions to help the City of Atascadero reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and prepare for the anticipated effects of climate change. CEQA requires the analysis of physical impacts on the environment. As such, the impact analysis focuses on adoption of the CAP and implementation of the climate action measures and actions and whether they would result in physical environmental impacts. It should be noted that the CAP does not propose any land use or zoning changes, nor does it include any site-specific development. Further, any future site- City of Atascadero 3 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 14 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study--Negative Declaration specific discretionary projects would be subject to additional environmental review pursuant to CEQA. Project Background The State of California considers GHG emissions and the impacts of global warming to be a serious threat to the public health, environment, economic well-being, and natural resources of California, and has taken an aggressive stance to mitigate the state's impact on climate change through the adoption of policies and legislation. In 2005, the Governor issued Executive Order S-3-05, which identifies statewide GHG emission reduction goals to achieve long-term climate stabilization as follows: reduce GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020, and to 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050.' Assembly Bill(AB)32,also known as the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006, subsequently codified the 2020 target, requiring California to reduce statewide GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. AB 32 also directed the California Air Resources Board to develop a plan to identify how the 2020 target would be met. That plan, called the Climate Change Scoping Plan (Scoping Plan) was approved in 2008 and contains the main strategies California will implement to achieve the target. The Scoping Plan identifies local governments as "essential partners" in achieving the goals of AB 32 since local governments have primary authority to plan, zone, approve, and permit how land is developed and used in their jurisdictions. The Scoping Plan encourages local governments to adopt a reduction target that parallels the State conimittnent to reduce GHG emissions by approximately 15 percent to achieve 1990 emissions levels by 2020. Project Description The CAP is a programmatic, long-range planning document to reduce GHG emissions from community-wide activities and City government operations within Atascadero to support the State's efforts under AB 32 and to mitigate Atascadero's climate-related impacts. Specifically, the CAP does the following: • Summarizes the results of the City's GHG Emissions Inventory Update,which identifies the major sources and quantities of GHG emissions produced within Atascadero and forecasts how these emissions may change over time. • Identifies the quantity of GHG emissions that Atascadero will need to reduce to meet its target of 15 percent below 2005 levels by the year 2020,consistent with AB 32. • Sets forth City government and community-wide GHG reduction measures, including performance standards which, if implemented, would collectively achieve the specified emission reduction target. • Identifies proactive adaptation strategies that can be implemented to help Atascadero prepare for anticipated climate change impacts. • Sets forth procedures to implement,monitor, and verify the effectiveness of the climate action measures and adapt efforts moving forward. Executive orders are binding only on State agencies.Accordingly,Executive Order. S-03-05 will guide State agencies'efforts to control and regulate GHG emissions,but have no direct binding effect on local government or private actions. City of Atascadero 4 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 15 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration The CAP utilizes 2005 as the baseline year and 2020 as the target year for achieving reductions. The 2020 target year corresponds with the target year identified in AB 32. GHG Emissions Inventory and Forecasts According to the GHG Emissions Inventory, the Atascadero community-as-a-whole emitted approximately 141,428 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent GHG emissions(MT CO2e) in 2005, as a result of activities that took place within the transportation, residential energy use, commercial.and industrial energy use, off-road, solid waste,and wastewater sectors. The largest contributors of GHG emissions were the transportation (43 percent), commercial/industrial energy use (14 percent), and residential energy use (29 percent) sectors. The remainder of emissions resulted from the off.-road equipment (6 percent), solid waste (6 percent), and wastewater(2 percent)sectors. The inventory also analyzed GHG emissions from City government operations and facilities. The City government operations inventory is a subset of, and included within,the community inventory. In 2005, City government operations generated approximately 4,130 MT CO2e. This quantity represents approximately 3 percent of the Atascadero community's total GHG emissions. Under the business-as-usual. scenario (a projection of how emissions will change in the future based on 2005 emissions levels and projected growth in population, jobs, and vehicle miles traveled), Ataseadero's community-wide GHG emissions are projected to grow approximately 22 percent above 2005 GHG emissions levels by the year 2020 (from 141,428 MT CO2e to 172,488 MT CO2e). The AB 32 Scoping Plan identifies several State measures that are approved, programmed, and/or adopted and would reduce GHG emissions within Atascadero. These State measures require no additional local action. In. addition to the State measures, the City of Atascadero has implemented a number of local measures since the 2005 baseline inventory year that will reduce the community's GHG emissions with no further action. Therefore, these measures were incorporated into the forecast and reduction assessment to create an "adjusted forecast scenario," which provides a more accurate picture of future emissions growth and the responsibility of the City. Under the adjusted scenario, GHG emissions are projected to decrease approximately 19 percent below the business-as-usual scenario to 138,951 MT CO2e in 2020. Table 1 below summarizes the reduction in local GHG emissions that would result from State and local measures compared to the business-as-usual forecast and the adjusted forecast. City of Atascadero 5 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2044-002 Page 16 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration 'fable 1: Summary of State&Local Reductions and adjusted Forecast 2020 Reduction (MT COze) 2020 Business-as-Usual Forecast 172,488 2020 Reduction from State Regulations -32,622 2020 Reduction from Local.Measures -915 2020 Adjusted Forecast 138,951 Target The City of Atascadero is committed to reducing its GHG emissions by 15 percent below 2005 levels by 2020, consistent with AB 32. Based on this target,Atascadero's 2020 targeted GHG emissions would be 120,214 MT COZe. To meet this target, Atascadero will need to reduce its GHG emissions 13 percent (or 18,737 MT COze) below the adjusted forecast by 2020 through implementation of local climate action measures and implementation actions. Climate Action Measures To achieve the GHG emissions reduction target of 15 percent below 2005 levels by 2020 and prepare for the anticipated effects of climate change, the CAP identifies a comprehensive set of climate action measures. These CAP measures are organized into the following focus areas, or categories: City Government Operations, Energy, Transportation and Land Use, Off-Road, Water, Solid Waste, Trees and Vegetation, and Adaptation. The climate action measures were selected based on careful consideration of the emission reductions needed to achieve the target, the distribution of emissions in the GHG emissions inventory, existing priorities and resources, and the potential costs and benefits of each climate action measure. Collectively, the climate action measures identified in the CAP have the potential to reduce GHG emissions within Atascadero by 28,873 MT COze by 2020 and meet the proposed GHG emission reduction target. Table 2 below shows a list of climate action measures and their associated GHG emissions reductions,where applicable. City of Atascadero 6 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014002 Page 17 of 55 City of Atescadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study-Negative Declaration Table 2e Summary of GHG Reductions by Measures CAP 2020 GHG Measure CAP Measure Deduction Number (MT COze) City Government Operations C-1 City Government Energy Efficiency Retrofits and Upgrades 59 C-2 City Government Energy Efficient Public Realm Lighting 23 C-3 Renewable Energy Systems on City Property 172 C-4 Zero-and Low-Emission City Fleet Vehicles 48 C-5 City Government Solid Waste Reduction 7 C-6 City Government Tree Planting Program 24 C-7 Wastewater Treatment Methane Capture Unknown City Government Subtotal 333 t Energy E-I Energy Efficiency Outreach and Incentive Programs 778 E-2 Energy Audit and Retrofit Program 1,099 E-3 Income-Qualified Energy Efficient Weatherization Programs 126 E-4 Incentives for Exceeding Title 24 Standards 227 E-5 Small-Scale On-Site Solar PV Incentive Program 781 E-6 Income-Qualified Solar PV Program 87 Energy Subtotal 3,098 Transportation and Land Use TL-1 Bicycle Network 691 TL-2 Pedestrian Network 317 TL-3 Expand Transit Network 86 TL-4 Increase Transit Service Frequency/Speed 23 TL-5 TDM Incentives 110 TL-6 Parking Supply Management 543 TL-7 Electric Vehicle Network and Alternative Fueling Stations 1,984 TL-3 Smart Growth 3,251 TL-9 Halt Retail Leakage 14,956 Transportation and Land (Ise Subtotal 21,96.1 Off-Road 0-1 Equipment Upgrades,Retrofits,and Replacements 754 Off-Road Subtotal 754 Water W-1 Exceed SB X7-7,Water Conservation Target 22 Water Subtotal ' 22 Solid Waste S-1. Solid Waste Diversion Rate 924 Solid Waste Subtotal 924 City of Atascadero 7 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2094-002 Page 18 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration CAP 2020 GHG Measure CAP Measure Reduction Number (MT COze Tree and Vegetation T-1 Tree Planting Program 36 T-2 Native Forest Regeneration 1,745 Tree Planting Subtotal 1,781 Adaptation A-1 Climate Chane Vulnerability NA A-2 Public Health and Emergency Preparedness NA A-3 Water Management NA A-4 Infrastructure NA Adaptation Subtotal NA TOTAL. 28,873 Project-Level CAP Consistency Worksheet The CAP includes a CAP consistency worksheet in Appendix C to assist project applicants and City staff in determining whether a proposed future development project is consistent with the CAP. If it is determined that a proposed project is not consistent with the CAP, further analysis would be required and the applicant would be required to demonstrate that the proposed project's GHG emissions fall below the San .Luis Obispo County Air Pollution Control District's (APCD) adopted GHG significance thresholds (see Chapter 1 of the CAP). The project would also be required to demonstrate that it would not substantially interfere with implementation of the CAP. Implementation and Monitoring Implementation and monitoring are essential processes to ensure that Ataseadero reduces its GHG emissions and meets its target. To facilitate this, each climate action measure is identified along with implementation actions,parties responsible for implementation and monitoring, cost and savings estimates, the GHG reduction potential (as applicable), performance indicators to monitor progress, and an. implementation time frame (see Chapter 4, Implementation and Monitoring,of the CAP). Climate action measure implementation is separated into three phases: near-term(by 2015),mid-tenn(2016-2017),and long-term(2018-2020). In order to ensure that the CAP measures and actions are implemented and their progress is monitored, the CAP includes several implementation and monitoring policies which direct the City to establish a CAP Implementation Team and conduct periodic measure evaluation and GHG inventory and CAP updates. Pursuant to these measures, the City will establish a CAP Coordinator who will provide essential CAP oversight and coordination of a multi-departmental CAP Implementation Team comprised of key staff in each selected department. The CAP Implementation Team will meet at least one time per year to assess the status of CAP efforts. The City's CAP Coordinator will be responsible for developing an annual progress report to the City Council that will: identify the implementation status of each climate action measure and action; evaluate achievement of, or progress toward performance criteria/indictors (located in City of Atascadero 8 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 19 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration Chapter 5, Table 5-1 Implementation Matrix, of the CAP); assess the effectiveness of the climate action measures included in the CAP;report on the State's implementation of state-level measures included in Chapter 2 of the CAP; and recommend adjustments to climate action measures or implementation actions, as needed. An implementation and monitoring tool will facilitate this process. To evaluate the performance of the CAP as a whole, the City will re- inventory community-wide and municipal GHG emissions every five years and compare them to the 2005 baseline GHG emissions inventory. If an update reveals that the plan is not making progress toward meeting the GHG reduction target, the City will adjust the measures as necessary. 9. SURROUNDING LAND USES AND SETTING: The City of Atascadero is located in San Luis Obispo County, approximately halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco. The City covers approximately 15,600 acres. Downtown Atascadero is located in the Atascadero USGS 7.5 minute quadrangle, N35° 29' 19" / W120' 39` 54", at approximately 860 feet in elevation. Atascadero combines city and country elements in a woodland setting with rugged hillsides, abundant vegetation, and creeks. Throughout the City oak woodlands define the character of Atascadero with pines found on the higher ridges,which top 2,000 feet at the southwest City limit. The Salinas River defines the eastern boundary of Atascadero and the Santa Lucia Mountains are adjacent to southern and western City limits. In accordance with the original Colony design, the historic downtown at the center of the City is ringed by residential neighborhoods that transition into ].ower-density rural areas. Commercial activity is focused along El Camino Real, Morro Road and near Highway 101 interchanges with mixed-use nodes planned at Del Rio and El Camino Real,Downtown,Curbaril and El Camino Real, and Santa Barbara and El Camino Real. The General Plan calls for infill development inside the Urban Service Line (iJSL) where services can be provided in. a cost-efficient manner. Beyond the USL, the plan intends for the Rural Service Area to retain rural residential zoning to reinforce the City's identity,the idea of"elbow room"and maintain open space characteristics. 10. OTHER PUBLIC AGENCIES WHOSE APPROVAL IS REQUIRED (e.g., PERMITS, FINANCING APPROVAL OR PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT): None. City of Atascadero 9 City of Atascadera Resolution No.2014-002 Page 20 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project; involving at least one impact that is a"Potentially Simificant Impact"as indicated on the following pages: c Aesthetics o Land Use/Planning c Agriculture and forestry Resources c Mineral Resources c Air Quality c Noise c $iologicaI Resources o Population/Housing c Cultural Resources u. Public Services c Geology/Soils c Recreation c Greenhouse Gas Emissions c Transportation/Traffic c Hazards&Hazardous Materials c utilities/Service Systems e Hydrology/Water Quality c Mandatory Findings of Significance DETERMINATION On the basis of this initial evaluation: s I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. E: I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the project have been made by or agreed to by the project proponent. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. c 1 find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment. and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required. C. I find that the proposed project MAY have a"potentially significant impact''or"potentially significant unless mitigated" impact,but at least one effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and 2)has beer: addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed. a 1 find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further is required. _. a. Printed Name 10 City of Atascaderc City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 21 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST :Less Potcna significant a,i . . Than "VO Incnr}>ocaieci. Impact tm�• I. AESTHETICS— Would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including,but not limited to,trees,rock outcroppings,and historic buildings within a state scenic highway? ❑ ❑ a ❑ c) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or duality of the site and its surroundings? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ Environmental Setting Atascadero is located near the southern end of the Salinas Valley adjacent to the Salinas River. The core of the City lies just west of the River along El Camino Real,which supports the majority of the City's commerce and business activities. Further west, residential neighborhoods extend in ever- decreasing densities into the foothills of the coastal Santa Lucia Mountains. The slopes of the Santa Lucia's are cut by seasonal streams that meander through the foothills and neighborhoods to the valley floor. The wooded foothills provide the visual backdrop and setting for the City. Oak trees are an important visual characteristic of the City, in forests, smaller groves, and as landmark individuals. Atascadero combines city and country elements in a woodland setting with rugged hillsides, abundant vegetation, and creeks. Throughout the City oak woodlands define the character of Atascadero with pines found on the higher ridges,which top 2,000 feet at the southwest City limit. The Salinas River defines the eastern boundary of Atascadero and the Santa Lucia Mountains are adjacent to southern and western City limits. The town's urban form is based on a master plan developed in the early 20th century by E.G. Lewis who envisioned a town with "elbow room" in central California. Accordingly, the built City of Atascadero 11 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 22 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration environment reflects the changing architectural styles and changing land uses of a small Central. Coast community founded in the early part of the last century. Some historic buildings, most notably the City Hall,and the street system radiating out from the city center,recall the early master plan. The City has prepared a specific plan and design guidelines to ensure that future development in the city center respects its historic character and meets the community's expectations for quality. The vision embodied by Lewis' master plan was disrupted by the construction of Highway 101 in the 1950s, and by the dispersal of commercial businesses north and south along El Camino Real. Still,the City has retained its original character of large residential lots surrounding art urban center. Historic buildings in the City include the City Hall Administration Building, constructed in 1914, and several other civic structures near the downtown constructed by the original Colony Holding Corporation. Original private Colony homes define the architectural character of the City and were constructed between 1913 and the late 1920's. State Route 101 from State Route 46 south to State Route 166 and State Route 41 from State Route 1 to State Route 101 are eligible State Scenic Highways (California Department of Transportation, 201.3). Discussion a,c) The CAP is a policy document that does not include any site-specific development, designs,or proposals, nor does it grant any entitlements for development that would potentially degrade the aesthetic quality of the environment. As a policy document, the CAP would not directly affect scenic vistas or the visual character or quality of the area. Implementation. of the climate action measures and actions would generally be associated with activities, such as encouraging energy efficiency and conservation and the use of small-scale on-site solar energy systems; incentivizing smart growth (infill, mixed-use, and higher density development near transit stops) consistent with the General Plan; encouraging walking, bicycling, ride-sharing, and use of existing public transit; facilitating the use of low- and zero-emissions vehicles; and increasing solid waste diversion. It is not anticipated that implementation of the CAP measures and actions would result in substantial effects on a scenic vista or substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the area because the climate action measures and actions would not significantly affect the height, bulk, or scale of development resulting in large structures that could block or highly modify the visual environment. The CAP includes climate action measures to improve and expand the City's bicycle, pedestrian, and transit networks. Implementation of these measures could result in installation of minor structures, including bicycle racks, benches, covered transit stops, and other alternative transportation related facilities. However, it is not anticipated that these structures would result in substantial effects to visual resources because structures would be small in nature and would not significantly affect the height, bulk, or scale of development or block or highly modify the visual environment. As a policy-document, the CAP does not include any site-specific development, designs, or proposals for related structures. Alternative transportation structures would be located in and near existing urbanized areas, consistent with the General Plan and Bicycle Master Plan. Further., any future site-specific discretionary projects would be subject to City policies and regulations related to the protection of visual resources, as well as additional environmental review City of Atascadero 12 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 23 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration pursuant to CEQA. The CAP also includes a measure to encourage smart growth (i.e., infill, mixed-use, and/or high- density) development within the community, in accordance with the existing General Plan. Smart growth would be located in and near existing urbanized areas, consistent with the General Plan. Implementation of this measure could result in increased density in these areas; however, impacts associated with this type of development were analyzed during environmental review of the General Plan. Furthermore, the CAP does not recommend specific densities, building heights massing or design of any projects, and precise project-level analysis would be speculative at this time. Any future site-specific discretionary projects would be subject to City policies and regulations related to the protection of visual.resources,as well as environmental review pursuant to CEQA. The CAP includes climate action measures to pursue small-scale on-site solar photovoltaic systems at City buildings and facilities and to encourage their installation throughout the community. In 2011, the California Legislature signed Senate Bill 226 and created a statutory exemption (CEQA exemption 21080.35) for solar photovoltaic systems installed on rooftops or existing parking lots (and meeting specified conditions, such as not exceeding 1.0 kilowatts in size). These solar installations that are exempt from CEQA are the type of solar energy projects anticipated to result from implementation of the CAP measures. Large-scale substantial solar energy facilities, such as solar farms or large solar panel installations that could have visual impacts are not the types of solar installations that would be incentivized through the measure. Implementation actions for this measure were designed consistent with the California Solar Permitting Guidebook (Governor's Office of Planning and Research, 2012) which facilitates streamlined permitting for solar systems under 10 kilowatt in size. According to the Guidebook, "This 10-kilowatt threshold captures approximately 90 percent of the solar photovoltaic systems that are currently installed. Above this size threshold, a system's design considerations become more complex" Further, any future proposed solar systems that exceed 10 kW in size or do not meet the requirements of CEQA exemption 21080.35 would be subject to additional environmental review pursuant to CEQA. The CAP also includes climate action measures to pursue energy efficiency and conservation at City buildings and facilities and to encourage energy efficiency improvements in new and existing buildings throughout the City.However,making buildings more energy efficient does not inherently involve any design features that would adversely affect the aesthetic quality of the environment. Because CAP measures and actions would not generally be of a nature or scale to substantially affect a scenic vista or the existing visual character or quality of the area, and any future site- specific discretionary projects would be subject to further development review, impacts would be less than significant. b) The Draft CAP is a policy document that does not include any site-specific development, designs, or proposals, nor does it grant any entitlements for development that would potentially damage scenic resources including but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway. Impacts would be less than significant. City of Atascadero 13 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 24 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration d) Implementation of the CAP would not result in the development of new significant sources light or glare. Distributed installation of small-scale solar photovoltaic systems is encouraged to reduce community-wide GHG emissions within the community; however, solar photovoltaic panels are specifically designed to absorb,not reflect,sunlight. The CAP includes several climate action measures where implementation may include replacing public street and parking lot lighting with energy efficient lighting; however, this would not create new sources of light and glare. Furthermore, energy efficient lighting such as light- emitting diodes (LEDs) are directional light sources, which emit light in a specific direction, unlike incandescent and compact fluorescent bulbs which emit light in all directions (Energy Star, 2013). For this reason, LED lighting is able to provide a higher quality light that can be directed more precisely to control for glare and light pollution. Impacts would be less than significant. : ga .14': d': itigaSR II. AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES—In determining whether impacts to agricultural resources are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to the California Agricultural Land Evaluation and Site Assessment Model (199 7)prepared by the California Dept. of Conservation as an optional model to use in assessing impacts on agriculture and farmland. In determining whether impacts to forest resources, including timberland, are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to information compiled by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection regarding the state's inventory offorest land, including the Forest and Range Assessment Project and the Forest Legacy Assessment project; and Forest carbon measurement methodology provided in Forest Protocols adopted by the California Air Resources Board. Would the project: a) Convert Prime Farmland,Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland)as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and MonitoringProgram of the California Resources Agency,to non-agricultural use? 0 a 0 ■ b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural City of Atascadero 14 City of Atascadero Resolution No,2014-002 Page 25 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration use or a Williamson Act contract? ❑ ❑ ❑ ■ c) Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of,forest land(as defined in Public Resources Code section 12220(8)),timberland (as defined by Public Resources Code section 4526),or timberland zoned Timberland Production(as defined by Government Code section 511.04(g))? ❑ ❑ ❑ ■ d) Result in the loss of forest land or conversion or forest land to non-forest use? ❑ ❑ ❑ ■ e) Involve other changes in the existing environment which,due to their location or nature,could result in conversion of Farmland, to non-agricultural use or conversion of forest land to non-forest use? ❑ ❑ ❑ t Environmental Setting There are currently about 44 acres of zoned agricultural lands within the City. There are over 100 acres of prime farmland along the Salinas River, Farmland of Local Potential along Craves Creek, and a large acreage that is classified as grazing land. Discussion a-e)The CAP is a policy-level document that does not propose any land use or zoning changes,nor does it include any site-specific development. As such,implementation of the CAP would not have the potential to substantially degrade agricultural resources or convert agricultural or forest land to non-agricultural or non-forest uses, nor would it conflict with existing zoning. No impacts to agricultural resources would occur. Potenkrall S. m Miti ted ga Irrilsabt irrrpact III. AIR QUALITY— Where available, the significance criteria established by the applicable air quality management or air pollution control district may be relied upon to make the,following determinations. Would the project: a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan? ❑ ❑ ■ b) Violate any air quality standard or City of Atascadero 15 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 26 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Pian Initial Study—Negative Declaration contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ c) 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)? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ d) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ e) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people? fl © ❑ ■ Environmental Setting Atascadero is located within the San Luis Obispo County portion of the South Central Coast Air Basin (Basin), which is under the jurisdiction of the San Luis Obispo County Air Pollution Control District(APCD). The APCD is required to monitor air pollutant levels to ensure that air quality standards are met and, if they are not met, to develop strategies to meet the standards. Depending on whether the standards are met or exceeded,the local air basin is classified as being in "attainment" or "non-attainment." Eastern San Luis Obispo County is a non-attainment area for the federal standard for ozone and the entire County is a non-attainment area for state standards for ozone and PMIo. The County is in attainment for the state standards for nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide and is unclassified for the associated federal standards (SLOAPCD, 2013). Under state law, once San Luis Obispo County has been designated and classified as a non- attainment status, the APCD is required to prepare a plan for air quality improvement for pollutants for which the District is in non-attainment. The APCD is responsible for developing and implementing the Clean Air Plan for attainment and maintenance of the ambient air quality standards in San Luis Obispo County. The region's existing Clean Air Plan, the San Luis Obispo County Clean Air Plan was adopted in 2001, and outlines strategies to reduce ozone precursor emissions from a wide variety of stationary and mobile sources. Discussion a-d) The CAP itself does not create physical growth and will not impact air quality beyond what is anticipated in the existing General Plan. Projects that are consistent with the General Plan are also consistent with the Clean Air Plan, as the regional air quality impacts associated with the implementation of the General Plan were evaluated during development of the Clean Air Plan. Therefore, the CAP is consistent with the Clean Air Plan and would not conflict with or obstruct implementation of the plan.Furthermore,the purpose and intended effect of the CAP is to reduce GHG emissions within the City to help reduce the effects of climate change, which has the 16 City of Atascadero City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 27 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration secondary benefit of also reducing criteria pollutant emissions. CAP measures and implementation actions identified in the CAP aim to increase energy efficiency, reduce vehicle miles traveled, promote travel via low- and zero- emissions modes (i.e., walking,bicycling, transit, electric vehicles, and other alternatively fueled vehicles), reduce gasoline and diesel fuel use, reduce potable water use, increase renewable energy use, and improve waste management efficiency. Implementation of these CAP measures and actions would aid in reducing overall GHG emissions, as well as criteria pollutant emissions, help meet applicable air quality plan goals, and reduce sensitive receptor exposure to pollutant concentrations. Impacts related to air quality would be less than significant. e) The CAP does not contain any climate action measures that would directly result in the creation of objectionable odors. The CAP would not facilitate any specific development projects that would create odors.No impact would occur. iY PoTfum. . . .. : :. Signi i mt Umeas Si rficaiai: :.:?ia'.' 1c}:::' :.Mitigated IiPact 1MPW, IV. BIOLOGICAL.RESOURCES-- Would the project: a) 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? © ❑ Ir ❑ b) 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 US Fish and Wildlife Service? ❑ ❑ ❑ c) Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act(including,but not limited to,marsh,vernal pool,coastal,etc.) City of Atascadero 17 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 28 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Pian Initial Study—Negative Declaration through direct removal,filling,hydrological interruption,or other means? ❑ ❑ ■ d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources,such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? ❑ Cl ■ ❑ f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan,Natural Community Conservation Plan,or other approved local,regional,or state habitat conservation plan? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ Environmental Setting The City's location among rolling hills at the southern end of the Salinas Valley provides a suitable environment for many plants and animals. A plant survey prepared for San Luis Obispo County (Hoover, 1.970) identifies the City in. a middle-Sonoran vegetation zone with significant wooded hillsides. The following community types appear to be the most plentiful in the planning area: Riparian Scrub/Riparian Woodland. .Riparian scrub and riparian woodland comununities are characterized as sparse to dense corridors of vegetation occurring adjacent to streams and rivers or in areas with a high ground water table. These communities extend throughout the planning area. The structure of riparian communities within the planning area is variable and alternates between dense tree thickets (riparian woodland) and open, shrub dominated areas (riparian scrub). Riparian scrub communities within the planning area are highly dependent upon factors such as seasonal changes in flow rate, the size and nature of the streambank and historical patterns of land use. Riparian scrub communities generally occur along perennial and intermittent streams. They are typically dominated by willows (Salix spp.) and other various shrubs. Species such as poison.hemlock (Conium maculatum),wild blackberry(Ruhus ursinus), twinberry (Lonicera involucrata), and sting nettle (Urtica holosericea) often comprise riparian scrub understory. Oak Woodland. Oak woodland communities extend throughout the planning area. In the planning area, oak woodlands do not form a continuous belt, but occur as a mosaic closely associated with communities such as non-native grassland. The oaks are primarily represented by the live oak (Quercus agrifolia), the valley or white oak (Quercus lohata), and the blue oak City of Atescadero 18 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 29 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration (Quercus douglasii). Since oaks are scattered, other plant communities such as chapaiTal and grassland integrate, and the understory becomes highly variable. Chaparral. Scrub oaks and foothill pines(Pinus sabiniana) form the major part of the chaparral community found on the more exposed, southern-facing slopes. These communities tend to have significant litter with little understory growth, and are adapted to fire. Typical species that occur in association.with chaparral include manzanita(Arctostaphylos spp.)and poison oak. Annual Grassland. Annual grassland communities occur in the interior valleys of the Coast Ranges of California and along the central and southern California coast. The majority of grasslands throughout California, as in the planning area, are dominated by non-native grasses that were introduced from the Mediterranean region during the Spanish Colonization period. Grassland communities extend through the planning area, but vary in terms of structure and species, depending on land use. Non-native grasses, native wildflowers and weedy annual fortis dominate grassland of the planning area. In addition, a few native species of grass may occur as part of the non-native grassland association. Typical non-native grass species include wild oat (Avena spp.), and fescues (Vulpia spp.). Typical forbs include California poppy (Eschscholzia californica) and cl.arkia(Clarkia spp.). Native species of grass include purple needlegrass (Stipa pulchra)and slender needlegrass(Stipa lepida). Ruderal (Disturbed habitat). Ruderal vegetation has been significantly disturbed by agriculture, construction, or other land clearing activities. Disturbed habitat occurs throughout the planning area in vacant lots, abandoned fields, roadsides, agricultural fields, parks, and development. Characteristic uncultivated species recorded in disturbed habitats include non- native species such as wild mustard (Brassica spp.), wild radish (Raphanus sativus), and sweet fennel (Foeniculum vulgare). Varieties of wildlife occur in the vegetative communities in the planning area. Fish. The creeks in the planning area have highly variable surface water levels; fish are expected to occur only seasonally in area creeks. More stable waterbodies, such as Atascadero Lake,support fish year-round. Amphibians. Amphibians occur in streams and associated riparian areas within the planning area. Common species include the western toad (Bufo boreas) and the Pacific tree frog (Hyla regilla). Non-native species that may occur in the planning area include the bullfrog (Rana catesbiana). Reptiles. Reptiles occur in nearly all the habitats of the planning area. Common species found in the planning area include the western skink (Eumeces skiltonianus), western fence lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis),and western rattlesnake(Crotalus viridus). Mammals. Common mammals occurring the planning area include deer, western grey squirrel (Sciurus griseus),bobcat(Lynx rufus), and Botta's pocket gopher(Thomomys bottae). Mammals occupy all of the different habitats of the planning area. City of Atascadero 19 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 30 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study-Negative Declaration Sensitive Plazas and Animals. A search of the National Diversity Data Base for the San Luis Obispo County area identified seven. sensitive plants and three animals near the City and within the Planning Area Boundary. Further information regarding sensitive species was obtained from. the EIR prepared for the existing General Plan. Sensitive species identified from both sources are listed in the table below: Table: Sensitive Plant and Animal Species Identified in the Atascadero Area Common Name(likelihood of occurrence) Scientific Name Status (Fed/State/CLAPS or Other Crustaceans Longhorn.fairy shrimp Branchinecta lou iantenna FE/--/-- Vernal pool fairy shrimp Branchinecta l-nchi FT/--/-- Invertebrates Atascadero June Beetle(high) -Polyphylla nubila FSC/--/-- Reptiles and Amphibians Arroyo toad Bu o microsca hus californicus FEI--I- Hammond's western s adefoot toad low Sca hio us hammondi hammondi FSC/CSC--P/-- California red-legged fro (high) Rana aurora draytonii FT/--/-- Foothill yellow-legged fro hi Rana bo lei FSC/CSC-P/- Coast horned lizard(high) Phrynosoma coronatum ontale FSC/CSC-P/- Southwestern pond turtle(low) Clemmys mannorata allida FSC/CSC-P/- Birds American white pelican Atascadero lake-high) PeJicanus er throrh. nchus --/CSC/Aud.WL Double crested cormorant(high) Phalacrocorax uuritas --/CSC/-- Califomia gull(high) Larus tali ornicus --/CSC/-- Califomia condor Gymnogyps tali ornianus FE/SE/-- Northern harrier(low) Circus c aneus --/CSC/-- Swainson's hawk low to moderate Asio,lantmeus - /ST/--Ferruginous hawk low to moderate Buten re alis FSC/CSC/Aud.WL Merlin ow to moderate Falco columbarius --/CSC/-- Bald eagle Haliaeetus Icrucoce halus FPD/SE/-- Golden eagle hi Aquila ch saetos -/CSC--FP/-- Prairie falcon(high) Falco mexicanus -/CSC/Aud.WL Least bittern(low) lxohprhusexilus FSC/CSC/MNBMC Burrowing Owl hi _ AMene cunicularia FSC/CSC/MNBMC Spotted owl low Strix occidentalis FSC/CSC/MNBMC Long-eared owl(low) Asio otus --/CSC/-- Cooper's hawk(high) Acci iter coo.eri - /CSC/-Sharp-shinned hawk(low) Acc' iter striatus --/CSC/- Mountain plover Charadrius montanus FPT/-./.- Least Bell's vireo Vireo bellti usillus FE/SE/-- Willow flycatcher(low) Em idomax traillii --/SE/-- Purple martin hi Pro a subis --/CSC/- Yellow-breasted chat low Icteria virens --/CSC/-- "Yellow warbler(high) Dendroica etechia --/CSC/-- Mammals San Joaquin kit fox low Vul es macrotis na.utica FE/ST/-- Townsend's western big-eared bat low Plecotus townsendii townsendii FSC/CSC/-- California mastiff bat ow Eumo s perods tali ornicw FSC/CSC/-- Fish Steelhead trout-Central Ca.ESU low to moderate Oncorh ynchus m kiss FT/--/-- Plants San Joaquin woollythreads Monolo is con donii FE/--/1B 20 City of Atascadero City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014002 Page 31 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration Straight-awned s ineflower Chorizanthe rectis ina Well's manzanita Aretosta h los wellsii --1--11B Brewer's s ineflower Chorizanthe hi-eweri —/—/1 B San Benito fritillary Fritillaria viridea —/—/IB San Luis Obispo sedge Carex obis oensis —/—/1B Cannel Valley bush mallow Malacothamnus pahneri var.involucratus --1--/1B Chorro Creels bog thistle I Cirsium ontinale var.obis oense FE/SE/1B Federal State CNVPS PSC:Species of Concern CSC:California Species of Concern 113:Species considered rare FE:Endangered P/FP:Protected from take or harm without permit FT:Threatened ST:Threatened Audubon Society FPD:Proposed Desisting SE:Endangered WL:Watch List FWSMNBMC:Migratory Non-Game Birds of Management Concern Discussion a-d) The CAP is a policy-level document that does not include any site-specific development, designs, or proposals, nor does it grant any entitlements for development that would result in biological. resource impacts. Infill development and smart growth incentivized by the CAP, and alternative transportation facilities would be located in and near existing urbanized areas,consistent with the General Plan and Bicycle Master Plan. Further, any future site-specific discretionary projects would be subject to additional environmental review pursuant to CEQA. Implementation of the CAP would not have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or indirectly through.habitat modifications, on any species identified.as a candidate, sensitive, special status species or wildlife movement. In addition,the CAP would not have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or sensitive natural community. Impacts would be less than significant. e) The City's General Plan Land Use, Conservation, and Open Space Element contains goals and policies to identify, protect, and enhance significant ecological and biological resources within Atascadero. The CAP does not permit any specific development nor would it add or enable any new development that would conflict with these local goals or policies ordinances protecting biological resources.Impacts would be less than significant. 0 The CAP would not facilitate any specific development projects nor would it add or enable any new development that would conflict with an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local,regional, or state habitat conservation.plan. Impacts would be less than significant. ..:...... gmlicapgi {' b°...:..., . ..... �+lxti aced` 1 V. CULTURAL RESOURCES-- Would the project: a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource as defined in§15064.5? 0 Q a City of Atascadero 21 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 32 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Pian Initial Study—Negative Declaration b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to §15064.5? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ c) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic features? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ d) Disturb any human remains,including those interred outside of formal cemeteries? ❑ ❑ a ❑ Environmental Setting As part of the most recent Atascadero General Plan update and associated Environmental Impact Report, a records search of the California Archaeological Information Center (CCIC) at the University of California at Santa Barbara(UCSB)identified approximately 35 archaeological sites, 4 isolates and 78 previous surveys in the Atascadero area. In the interest of preserving known sites, their locations are generally kept confidential. Two resources are listed on the National Register of Historic Places,including the Administration Building in downtown Atascadero. A search was also conducted by the Native American Heritage Commission of their Sacred Lands Inventory. No sacred lands were identified in the planning area. In the impact analysis, the absence of a designated archaeological site in a given area does not necessarily imply that none is present. The known distribution must be compared against the location of surveys conducted according to current professional standards before an area can be evaluated as containing low potential for cultural.resources. Discussion a-d) The Atascadero CAP is a policy-level document that does not include any site-specific development, designs, or proposals, nor does it grant any entitlements for development that will cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical, cultural, or archaeological resource. Further., any future site-specific discretionary projects would be subject to additional environmental review wherein any site-specific cultural. resource impacts would be addressed. Impacts would be less than significant. r�taiiy. � Y gn 9vo .. . pImpact .. .. VI. GEOLOGY AND SOILS— Would the project.- a) roject.a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial. adverse effects,including the risk of loss,injury, or death involving: City of Atascadero 22 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 33 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study--Negative Declaration i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault,as delineated on the most recent Alquist- Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault? Refer to Division of Mines and Geology Special Publication 42. ❑ ❑ N ❑ ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? ❑ ❑ 0 ❑ iii) Seismic-related ground failure,including liquefaction? ❑ n ■ ❑ iv) Landslides? ❑ o ■ ❑ b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? ❑ o ■ ❑ c) 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? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ f) Be located on expansive soil,as defined in Table 18-1-B of the Uniform Building Code (1994),creating substantial risks to life or property? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ g) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative waste water disposal.systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of waste water? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ Environmental Setting The slopes of the Santa Lucia Mountains form the western boundary of the City of Atascadero. Relatively level plains and rolling foothills dominate the topography. Seismicity. The planning area is located within. the Salinian domain of the Coast Range geomorphic province of California. This domain is relatively quiet in.terms of seismic activity due to the relative strength of the underlying rocks. The planning area is underlain mainly by soils of the Toro Formation (Kjt) and their derivatives, and unnamed sediments associated with the Salinas River. Atascadero lies about 30 miles west of the San Andreas Fault zone and about 19 miles east of the San Simeon-Hosgri Fault, both of which are considered active (an active fault is one which City of Atascadero 23 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 34 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Acton Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration has experienced surface displacement during the past 12,000 years)(refer to Figure 3). The Rinconada Fault is located near the southeastern boundary of the City at the confluence of the Salinas River and Santa Margarita Creek. It traverses in a northerly direction approximately 1 to 2 miles east of the Salinas River. The Nacimien.to Fault Zone is located approximately three miles west of the City. The Rin.conada Fault is considered potentially active,while the Nacimiento Fault is considered inactive. According to the San Luis Obispo County Safety Element,Atascadero faces moderate fault rupture hazard from both faults; further study is recoimnended before structures are placed near the mapped traces. Geologic Hazards. The Atascadero planning area is subject to several types of related but distinct geologic hazards. Ground Shaking. Small to moderate earthquakes are common.in San Luis Obispo County. Ground Rupture. Seismically induced ground rupture is defined as the physical displacement of surface deposits in response to an earthquake's seismic waves. Ground rupture is most likely along active faults. Liquefaction. Liquefaction is a phenomenon where near surface soils lose cohesion and convert to a fluid state because of severe vibration. Landslides. The occurrence of landslides is generally influenced by a number of factors, including slope angle,soil moisture content,vegetative cover and the physical nature of the underlying strata. Erosion and Sedimentation. Erosion is a natural process that occurs over time by either wind or water moving over soils. Expansive soils. Expansive soils tend to swell with seasonal increases in soil moisture and shrink during the dry season as soil moisture decreases. The volume changes that the soils undergo in this cyclical proves can stress and damage slabs and foundations if precautionary measures are not taken. Discussion a-e) The CAP is a policy-level document that does not include any site-specific development, designs, or proposals,nor does it grant any entitlements for development that would directly impact or be impacted by geology and soils. The CAP does not propose any site specific development that would expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects,including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving: rupture of a known earthquake fault, strong seismic ground shaking, seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction, or landslides. Further,any future site-specific discretionary projects would be subject to additional environmental review wherein any site-specific impacts related to geology and soils would be addressed.Impacts would be less than significant. Si nifiMt City of Atascadero 24 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 35 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration Vii. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS— Would the project: a) Generate greenhouse gas emissions,either directly or indirectly,that may have a significant impact on the environment? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ b) Conflict with an applicable plan,policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ Environmental Setting In March 2012, the APCD adopted GHG thresholds in order to help lead agencies assess the significance of GHG impacts of new projects subject to CEQA The APCD's CEQA guidance identifies three different types of GHG thresholds designed to accommodate various development types and patterns: 1) Qualitative Reduction Strategies (e.g., Climate Action Plans): a qualitative threshold that is consistent with AB 32 Scoping Plan measures and goals; 2) Bright-Line Threshold: numerical value to determine the significance of a project's annual GHG emissions; 3) Efficiency-Based Threshold: assesses the GHG efficiency of a project on a per capita basis. The APCD recommends that lead agencies within the county use the adopted GHG thresholds of significance when considering the significance of GHG impacts of new projects subject to CEQA. Further, projects with GHG emissions that exceed the thresholds will need to implement mitigation to reduce the impacts to a less than significant level. As identified in the APCD's CEQA Handbook (April 2012), if a project is consistent with an adopted Qualified GHG Reduction Strategy (i.e., a CAP) that addresses the project's GHG emissions, it can be presumed that the project will not have significant GHG emission impacts and the project would be considered less than significant. This approach is consistent with CEQA Guidelines Sections 15064(h)11 and 15183.5(b). The City's CAP was developed to be consistent with State CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5 and APCD's CEQA Handbook to mitigate emissions and climate change impacts and will therefore serve as a Qualified GHG Reduction Strategy for the City of Atascadero. Discussion a) The CAP creates a comprehensive GHG emissions reduction strategy (consistent with Section 15183.5 of the CEQA Guidelines and the APCD CEQA Handbook)for the City of Atascadero. The CAP contains a series of climate action measures and actions to reduce cumulative GHG emissions by a minimum of 15 percent below 2005 levels by 2020.Impacts would be Less than significant. City of Atascadero 25 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 36 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration b)The CAP includes climate action measures and actions to reduce the City's GHG emissions by at least 15 percent below 2005 levels by 2020 in accordance with AB 32 (see Table 2 of this Initial Study). As stated in the project description, the purpose of the CAP is to reduce Atascadero's proportionate share of the statewide target set by AB 32. The CAP would not conflict with any applicable GHG reduction plan. Furthermore, the CAP is consistent with the APCD's CEQA Handbook and meets all of the criteria specified therein as it pertains to a Qualified Greenhouse Gas Reduction Strategy. Impacts would be less than significant. :'.Sagnit`.'; a.ialess Sippificant ::.No ��npact `tiiit�,Gatcd ttnpact V111. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS-w-Would theproject: a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use or disposal of hazardous materials? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonable foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances,or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 and,as a result,would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ e) For a project located within an airport land use plan,or,where such a plan has not been adopted,within two miles of a public airport or public use airport,would the project.result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? ❑ ❑ ■ City of Atascadero 26 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 37 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initia I Study—Negative Declaration 0 For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip,would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? ❑ ❑ ■ a g) Impair implementation of or physically Interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? ❑ ❑ ■ n h) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss,injury or death involving wildland fires,including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where residences are intermixed with wildlands? ❑ o ■ ❑ Environmental Setting In accordance with the original Colony design, the historic downtown, at the center of the City is ringed by residential neighborhoods that transition into lower-density rural areas. Commercial activity is focused along El Camino Real, Morro Road and near Highway 101 interchanges with mixed-use nodes planned at Del .Rio and El Camino Real, Downtown, Curbaril and El Camino Real, and Santa Barbara and El. Camino Real. Industrial and Industrial Park zoning districts are located along Traffic Way. The Atascadero Fire Department maintains emergency response plans for the City. There is no airport located within the City of Atascadero. Discussion a-f, h) The CAP does not involve any site-specific development nor would it directly facilitate new development. Implementation of the proposed CAP measures would not involve the routine transport,use,or disposal of hazardous materials,and would not create reasonably foreseeable upset and/or accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment. Therefore, no adverse impacts with regard to hazards to the public or environment, hazardous materials with '/4 mile of a school, development on a hazardous material site, or development near an airport or airstrip would occur. Further, the CAP would not expose people or structures to wildland fires.Impacts would be less than significant. g) The CAP includes climate action measures to promote bicycle, pedestrian, and transit facilities, and would not impair implementation of an adopted emergency response plan. Furthermore, one of the adaptation measures supports emergency preparedness in response to anticipated effects of climate change by disseminating public preparedness and emergency response information, conducting training exercises, and identifying and focusing planning and outreach programs on particularly vulnerable populations.Impacts would be less than significant. City of Atascadero 27 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 38 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration Pcrct^miaUy `fess 'oten$ally. Sigmii'tcam 'i`han sipifiravlt Unless Sipiffcani No lmpkt Mitiggal impact In wl VIII.. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY. Would the project. a) Violate any water quality standards or waste ❑ ❑ ❑ ■ discharge requirements? b) Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering of the local groundwater table level (e.g., the production rate of preexisting nearby wells would drop to a level which would not support existing land uses or planned uses for which permits have been granted)? c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of o a ■ a the site or area,including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river,in a manner which would result in substantial erosion or siltation on-or off-site(e.g.downstream)? d) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of ❑ ❑ ■ 0 the site or area,including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river,or substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner,which would result in flooding on-or off- site? e) Create or contribute runoff water which would ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ exceed the capacity of existing or planned storm water drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff? f) Otherwise substantially degrade water quality? ❑ n ■ g) Place housing within a 100-year flood hazard area as ❑ o ■ n mapped on a federal.Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation map? City of A tascadero 28 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 39 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study--Negative Declaration h) Place within a 100-year flood hazard area structures o o ■ o which would impede or redirect flood flows? i) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of o o ■ 13 loss,injury or death involving flooding,including flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or darn? j) Inun.dati.on by seiche,tsunami,or mudflow? o o ■ o Environmental Setting Natural drainage courses within the City include Atascadero, Graves and Paloma Creeks, and the Salinas River. Portions of the city and outlying areas are within the 100-year flood hazard area as defined by local Flood Insurance Rate Maps. The flood hazard area associated with the Salinas River extends to the east side of Hidalgo Avenue, Sycamore Road, and Capistrano Avenue, as well as a segment of Curbaril Avenue. The flood hazard area associated with Atascadero Creek is generally limited to its channel and immediately adjacent properties, except where the creek crosses Highway 101. Flooding along Paloma and Graves Creek is generally contained to areas within and immediately adjacent to the channels. Water quality in the creeks and groundwater basin is affected by surface drainage and pollution. Construction in areas that directly or indirectly drain to waterways results in disturbance of surface soils, which. can be washed into area waterways. This can adversely affect turbidity, temperature, oxygen levels, and other important water quality indicators. Increased development also increases the amount of impermeable surfaces, potentially increasing runoff and decreasing groundwater recharge. The City of Atascadero derives all of its domestic water from.groundwater resources. All properties within the City are entitled to water from the Atascadero Mutual Water Company (AMWC). AMWC draws water from the Salinas River underflow and the Atascadero Sub-basin, which are hydrologically related and part of the same groundwater resource. Near the city, the Paso Robles formation is split by the Rinconada fault forming a sub-basin (the Atascadero Sub-Basin) that is estimated to contain a supply of about 513,000 AF. The Atascadero Sub-basin is a deep aquifer (600 - 1000 feet) that generally extends from the confluence of Santa Margarita Creek and the Salinas River northward towards Templeton and Paso Robles. The perennial yield of the Atascadero Sub-basin is estimated at 16,500 AFY. Current (2000) demand from AMWC is approximately 6,422 AFY. Total pumping in the basin in 2000 was 11,100 AFY. Discussion a) Implementation of the CAP measures would not violate water quality standards or waste discharge requirements.No impact would result. b-f)The CAP is a policy document that does not include any site-specific development, designs, or proposals, nor does it grant any entitlements for development. As a result,no adverse impacts City of Atascadero 29 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 40 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration related to groundwater or surface water quality, groundwater resources, runoff, or sensitive areas would occur.Further,one of the climate adaptation measures identifies a strategy to seek funding to enhance flood control and improve water quality.Impacts would be less than significant. g-i)The CAP is a policy-level document that does not propose any land use or zoning changes,nor does it include any site-specific development. As such, implementation of the CAP would neither directly or indirectly expose people or structures to potential flood hazards or impede or redirect flood flows. Further, one of the climate adaptation measures calls on the City to prepare for anticipated climate change effects on water and limit community exposure to threats such as flooding,which may have a beneficial effect.Impacts would be less than significant. j)The CAP is a policy-level document that does not include any site-specific development,designs, or proposals, nor does it grant any entitlements for development that would expose people and structures to inundation by seiches, tsunamis, or mudflows. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant. ... ..: .... . ... . .y �qThan .'ficaut..`.':_..1.'nlesis�: x; S�Yuani. . . .. ... . . .. X. LAND USE AND PLANNING— Would the project: a) Physically divide an established community? o 0 ■ a) 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? rJ' c ■ ❑ b) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural community conservation plan? .0 0 ■ ❑ Environmental Settini? The town's urban form is based on a master plan developed in the early 20th century by E.G. Lewis who envisioned a town with "elbow room" in central California. Accordingly, the built environment reflects the changing architectural styles and changing land uses of a small Central Coast community founded in. the early part of the last century. Some historic buildings, most notably the City Hall,and the street system radiating out from the city center,recall the early master plan. The City has prepared a specific plan and design guidelines to ensure that future development in the city center respects its historic character and meets the community's expectations for quality. City of A fascadero 30 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 41 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration The vision embodied by Lewis' master plan was disrupted by the construction of Highway 101. in the 1950s, and by the dispersal of commercial businesses north and south along El Camino Real. Still,the City has retained its original character of large residential lots surrounding an.urban center. In accordance with the original Colony design, the historic downtown at the center of the City is ringed by residential. neighborhoods that transition into lower-density rural areas. Commercial activity is focused along El Camino Real, Morro Road and near Highway 101 interchanges with mixed-use nodes planned at Del Rio and El Camino Real, Downtown, Curbaril and EI Camino Real, and Santa Barbara and El Camino Real. The General Plan calls for infill development inside the Urban. Service Line (USL) where services can be provided in a cost-efficient manner. Beyond the USL, the plan intends for the Rural Service Area to retain rural residential zoning to reinforce the City's identity,the idea of"elbow room"and maintain open space characteristics. Discussion a)The CAP does not include any climate action measures or any specific development projects that would divide an. established community. The CAP includes several climate action measures that would support pedestrian and bicycle circulation and improved transportation alternatives, which would improve connectivity throughout Atascadero.Impacts would be less than significant. b) The CAP is a policy-level document that does not propose any land use or zoning changes, nor does it include any site-specific development;therefore it would not conflict with the City's General Plan or Zoning Ordinance. The CAP includes a climate action measure to facilitate mixed-use, higher density, and infill development near transit routes, in existing community centers/downtowns, and in other designated areas. Implementation of this treasure would occur in areas currently designated for these uses in the General. Plan and in a manner consistent with existing policies. Any future site-specific discretionary projects would be subject to additional environmental review.Impacts would be less than significant. c)The CAP does not include any site-specific development, designs,or proposals,nor does it grant any entitlements for development that would potentially conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural community conservation plan. Any future site-specific discretionary projects would be subject to subsequent environmental review wherein any site-specific impacts would be addressed accordingly. Impacts would be less than significant. �?Otajtja3fV. less P....,°a otenU S[ iticarx ..Than... ti .•fican..'. `. .tUnlcss .: : "franc 310:'.`S act li. .,._ .',. .:_.RBifgated .nP XI. MINERAL RESOURCES-- Would the project: a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state? 0 0 City of Atascadero or 31 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 42 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally- important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan,specific plan or other land use plan? ❑ ❑ ❑ ■ Environmental Setting Atascadero does not contain any areas identified by the California Department of Mines and Geology as having substantial mineral resources. There are a few small mines or quarry operations located within the City. Discussion a-b)The CAP would not directly facilitate any specific development projects and would not add or enable development that could result in the loss of mineral resources. No impact to mineral resources would occur. „ . ..: Potenfialfy osigniflimnt 5ignifit�?t'..:.. N1I. NOISE-- Would the project result in: a) 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? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ 4) Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels? ❑ ❑ a ❑ 5) A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? ❑ ❑ s ❑ 6) A substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ 7) For a project located within an airport land use plan or,where such a plan has not been adopted,within two miles of a public airport or public use airport,would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? ❑ ❑ ❑ City of Atascadero 32 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 43 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration 8) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip,would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ Environmental.Settins The Atascadero Noise Element provides goals, policies and implementation measures intended to reduce the adverse effects of noise. The Noise Element sets standards for the maximum allowable noise exposure from both transportation and stationary sources. Sources of long-term noise, or noise which will permanently alter the ambient noise levels in the City include vehicle traffic. Other sources of noise include noise from railroad traffic and operational noise from residences. The impact of increased vehicle traffic can be quantified through analysis of additional average daily trips (ADT) on area roadways. Sections of Highway 41, two sections of El Camino Real,one section of Atascadero Avenue, one section of San Anselmo Road, one section of Monterey Road, one section of Del Rio Road, one section of Portrero Road, and one section of Traffic Way may exceed noise thresholds, according to the 2002 General Plan Update EIR. Highway 101 is also located within the City of Atascadero for several miles of roadway. Discussion a-d) Implementation of the CAP measures would not result inexposure of persons to noise in excess of established standards or groundborne vibration or noise, nor would it result in a temporary,periodic,or permanent increase in ambient noise levels above existing levels. Several of the CAP measures are designed to encourage a shift from single occupancy vehicle to walking and bicycling or from conventional. fuels to electric vehicles which would reduce vehicular travel and noise. Therefore, future ambient noise levels should be similar or somewhat reduced from present levels. Further, any future site-specific discretionary projects would be subject to additional environmental review wherein any site-specific noise impacts would be addressed. Impacts would be less than significant. e-f)The CAP does not propose any land use or zoning changes,nor does it include any site-specific development which would expose people to excessive noise levels. Impacts would be less than significant. v. . AMCaI Si TII .tVi3. XIII. POPULATION AND HOUSING—Would the project: a) Induce substantial population growth in an area,either directly(for example,by proposing new homes and businesses)or City ofAfascadero 33 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 44 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration indirectly(for example,through extension of roads or other infrastructure)? ❑ o ❑ ■ b) Displace substantial numbers of existing housing,necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? 0 0 0 ■ c) Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? 0 0 0 ■ Environmental Setting The Atascadero population grew 14 percent from 1990 to 2000 and is estimated to have reached a total population of 28,590 in 2008. Growth in Atascadero mirrored that of San Luis Obispo County, which grew 14 percent from 1990 to 2000 and is estimated to have grown 9 percent from 2000 to 2008. Household composition and size are often interrelated and are indicators of the type of housing appropriate for residents of Atascadero. The majority of householders in Atascadero are 35 to 65 years old. This age group represents 63 percent of householders in Atascadero. From 1990 to 2000,the number of householders under the age of 35 decreased,reducing the percentage of householders in this age group from 28 percent to 17 percent. The percentage of family households fell slightly from 73 percent in 1990 to 71 percent in 2000, while the percentage of single persons increased slightly over the same period. The average household size dropped slightly from 2.7 in 1990 to 2.62 in 2000. The data indicates some maturing families in Atascadero with children beginning to leave the home. The majority of Atascadero homes are single-family detached. The variety of housing types has remained similar over the period from 1990 to 2000,with slight growth in single-family homes, both attached and detached,and slight decreases in mobile homes and other housing types. Discussion a-c) The CAP would not directly or indirectly result in an increase in population and would not accommodate growth beyond that anticipated by the City's adopted General Plan or induce additional population growth. Further, implementation of the CAP measures would not displace existing housing or people. Therefore,no impacts related to population and housing would result. P.... . WR:: Y. '. ; ISM S[gnifica[sf CTnless.'.: ' Signir�nt :":Ara'...:' ..JmpBtcT XIV. PUBLIC SERVICES-- a) Would the project result in substantial City of Atascadero 34 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 45 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial study—Negative Declaration adverse physical.impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities,need for new or physically altered governmental facilities,the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios,response times or other performance objective for any of the public services: Fire protection? ❑ ❑ ❑ a Police protection? ❑ ❑ a Schools? ❑ ❑ ❑ Parks? ❑ ❑ ❑ ■ Other public facilities? ❑ ❑ ❑ ■ Environmental.Setting The City of Atascadero provides sewage treatment, police protection, fire protection, parks and recreation programs, and numerous other general government functions. Schools are operated by the Atascadero Unified School District. Libraries are operated by the County of San Luis Obispo. Solid waste disposal is provided by a private company, under a franchise agreement with the City. Water service,which is provided by the Atascadero Municipal Water Company. Development Impact Fees: Development Impact Fees will be required of any new project for which a building permit is issued. The concept of the impact fee program is to fund and sustain improvements which are needed as a result of new development as stated in the General Plan and other policy documents within the fee program. Development Impact Fees fall into the following categories: Drainage Fees (including the Amapoa Tecorida Drainage Area Fee); Streets, Road, Bridge Fees; Sewer Fees; Public Safety Fees; and Park Fees, Miscellaneous Fees. In addition, school fees are collected by the Atascadero Unified School District. The amount of impact fees to be paid will be determined at the time of issuance of building permit. Fire and Police: Impact fees are charged for new development, to help pay the cost of providing new facilities to serve the expanding city. The Fire Department of the City of Atascadero has indicated that it will.be able to adequately service the proposed project. The applicant shall comply with all requirements of the Fire Department. The City of Atascadero Police Department has also indicated that the proposed project poses no problems to the police to adequately service it. Schools: The Atascadero Unified School District charges impact fees to fund additional schools as needed. State law restricts mitigation of school impacts to the levying of these fees and other measures adopted by the School district. Provision of adequate facilities for the population is the 35 City of Atascadero City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 46 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration responsibility of the school district. Fees will be required through construction permits for the residence. Parks: The City's Parks & Recreation Commission is committed to finding ways to continue to provide parks and other recreational opportunities to city residents as the city expands, thereby addressing cumulative impacts. Discussion a)Implementation of the CAP would not facilitate additional growth beyond that anticipated by the General Plan. Therefore,it would not increase demand for public services or facilities or generate a need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios,response times or other performance objective for any of the public services. Therefore, no impact on public services causing the need for new governmental facilities is expected. F.etli+aU' Tess Y. ;;;: Sxgrsficsm:.:: :_ [i13 S 5igtiificauf ala .. .. 7 1171TIVRC: 1tFb�fltC6 :1.77R12GC :. linpOet XV, RECREATION-- a) Would the project increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated? o ❑ ■ b) Does the project include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment? ❑ a ■ O Environmental Setting Parks within.the City are overseen by the Parks and Recreation Commission within the Community Services Department/Police Department. Standards for provision of park space are provided by the National Parks and Recreation Association, which considers 1 acre per thousand residents of community or neighborhood parks, and 5 acres per thousand of regional. parks to be acceptable. The planning area currently contains 184.4 acres of publicly owned, improved park space, or. approximately 7 acres per 1000 people. An additional 67.1 acres of park space are located at the area schools,and 212 acres of private recreational space are located at Chalk Mountain Golf Course. Discussion a-b) Implementation of the CAP would not directly or indirectly increase population or demand for park facilities. Therefore, the CAP would not result in physical deterioration of park facilities or require new park facilities, the construction of which could cause physical environmental City of Atascadero 36 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 47 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration impacts. Impacts would be less than significant. .......... . .. ...... . . 5igpi 'an S%gnificu�. ' yrs', : iUq)jd mill rci ampsu Srzipa6e XVL TRANSPORTATIONfrRAFFIC— Would the project: a) Conflict with an applicable plan,ordinance or policy establishing measures of effectiveness for the performance of the circulation system, taking into account all modes of transportation including mass transit and non- motorized travel and relevant components of the circulation system,including but not limited to intersections,streets,highways and freeways,pedestrian and bicycle paths, and mass transit? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ b) Conflict with an applicable congestion management program,including,but not limited to level of service standards and travel demand measures,or other standards established by the county congestion management agency for designated roads or highways? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ c) Result in a change in air traffic patterns, including either an increase in traffic levels or a change in location that results in substantial safety risks? ❑ ❑ ❑ ■ d) Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature(e.g. sharp curves or dangerous intersections)or incompatible uses(e.g, farm equipment)? ❑ ❑ M ❑ e) Result in inadequate emergency access? ❑ ❑ 0 c) Conflict with adopted policies,plans,or programs regarding public transit,bicycle,or pedestrian facilities,or otherwise decrease the performance or safety of such facilities? ❑ ❑ 0 ❑ City of Atascadero 37 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014002 Page 48 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration Environmental Setting Laid out as part of the 1913 Atascadero Colony plan, the circulation system was designed for low- intensity land uses. The existing network consists of radial routes emanating from the City Hall area supported by a series of arterial rings meant to convey traffic to outlying areas. A few blocics in the city center display the grid system common to most cities. Not all planned streets have been built, and many minor streets are privately maintained and not part of the City's adopted system. The radial street pattern was interrupted in 1954 with construction of Highway 101,and commercial development has since spread along El Camino Real. The freeway has limited east-west travel to the eight crossings. It does not allow for access from Atascadero Mall to El Camino Real and the Downtown. The major arterials in Atascadero are El Camino Real and Morro Road. Minor arterials include Traffic Way, Atascadero Avenue, Santa Barbara Road, Halcon Road, Santa Rosa Road, West Mall/Capistrano Avenue, San Anselmo Road, Del Rio Road, Potrero Road and portions of Curbaril Avenue, Portola Road and Santa Lucia Avenue. Certain arterial streets and Highway 101 are designated as truck routes. Discussion a-b) The CAP is a policy-level document that includes climate action measures to reduce GHG emissions. It does not propose any land use or zoning changes, nor does it include any site- specific development.Please note any future site-specific discretionary projects would be subject to additional environmental review pursuant to CEQA. Implementation of the CAP would not conflict with an applicable plan, ordinance or policy establishing measures of effectiveness for the performance of the circulation system or an applicable congestion management program.. Implementation of the CAP measures would encourage alternatives to single occupancy vehicle travel (i.e., walking, bicycling, transit, carpooling, telecommuting, etc.) in order to reduce vehicle trips and miles traveled. This could reduce the number of vehicle trips, volume-to-capacity ratio, and intersection congestion within the City, thereby improving levels of service on local roads. This would provide a positive benefit in the performance of the circulation system. Impacts would be less than significant. c) Implementation of the CAP would not result in a change in air traffic patterns. No impact related to air traffic or safety would occur. d-e) The CAP would not directly facilitate any specific development projects nor would it add or enable development that would increase hazards or result in inadequate emergency access. Further, any future site-specific discretionary projects would be subject to additional environmental review wherein any site-specific impacts related to hazards or emergency access would be addressed.Impacts would be less than significant. 0 Implementation of the CAP would encourage alternatives to single-occupancy vehicle travel, consistent with adopted local and regional plans, policies, or programs regarding public transit, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities, and would not result in adverse effects on their safety or performance. Impacts would be less than significant. City of Atascadero 38 City of Atascadero Resolution No,2014-002 Page 49 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Stud —Negative Declaration fte"tiaify z ess Poi Gaily S41iflcam Thar, SSmihcarst._ unlessigndficanc No Irnpac{' 1Iitigatai Impact Imp- XIII. UTILITIES ANIS SERVICE SYSTEMS— Would theproject: a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board? ❑ ❑ ❑ b) Require or result in the construction of new water or wastewater treatment facilities or expansion.of existing facilities,the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? ❑ ❑ ❑ c) Require or result in the construction of new storm water drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities,the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? ❑ ❑ ❑ c) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project from existing entitlements and resources, or are new or expanded entitlements needed? ❑ ❑ d) Result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider which serves or may serve the project that it has adequate capacity to serve the project's projected demand in. addition to the provider's existing commitments'? ❑ ❑ ❑ e) Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the project's solid waste disposal needs? ❑ ❑ 0 ❑ f) Comply with federal,state,and local statutes and regulations related to solid waste? ❑ ❑ f ❑ Environmental Setting Sewer and wastewater services are provided by the City of Atascadero. Solid waste disposal is provided by a private company, under a franchise agreement with the City. Water service is 39 City of Atascadero City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 50 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration providedby the Atascadero Municipal Water Company, Gas Service is provided the Gas Company, and electricity is provided by PG&E. Discussion a-e)The CAP would not accommodate growth beyond that anticipated by the General Plan nor does it propose any specific development projects that would increase wastewater generation, water demand, or storm.water runoff. Further, the CAP includes a climate action measure that aims to reduce potable water consumption compared to business-as-usual, which would reduce wastewater generation and water demand. Impacts would be less than significant. f g)The CAP would not accommodate growth beyond that anticipated by the General Plan nor does it propose any specific development projects that would increase solid waste generation.Further,the CAP includes a measure that aims to reduce community-wide waste by 2020.Impacts would be less than significant. ctten�3at St� ::... ... ...:::..:.:....:..............::::::...........'...'.•.:..8nz6C�?k:::::.. : Signi:f'[caui...'.; IcTp::::`. ... . .. 4.1 `.Mitigated Impact'' Itttpaci'' XVIII. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE-- a) Does the project have the potential to degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species,cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels,threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community,reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑ b) Does the project have impacts that are individually limited,but cumulatively considerable?("Cumulatively considerable" means that the incremental.effects of a project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects,and the effects of probable future projects)? ❑ Cl c) Does the project have environmental effects which will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings,either directly or indirectly? a ❑ ❑ 40 City of Atascadero City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 51 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration a) The intent of the CAP is to reduce GHG emissions from City of Atascadero operations and within the City through implementation of GHG reduction measures. CAP measures encourage actions by residents, businesses, and the City to reduce energy, water, and fuel use and associated GHG emissions. The CAP would not directly facilitate any specific development plans or projects or have any climate action measures that would diminish wildlife habitats or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory. As discussed in Sections N, Biological Resources, and V, Cultural Resources, impacts would be less than significant. b) Implementation of the CAP would result in a cumulatively considerable beneficial reduction of GHG emissions and would not make a considerable contribution to any significant cumulative impacts.Impacts would be less than significant. c) The CAP does not have any effects which would cause a direct or indirect adverse effect on human beings. Rather, the CAP would reduce GHG emissions as well as have many other secondary environmental benefits. These include: reduction in air pollution., reduction in transportation congestion, reduction in landfilled solid waste, energy efficiency, and water conservation.Therefore,CAP implementation would have less than significant impacts with respect to adverse effects on humans. 41 City of Atascadero City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 52 of 55 City of Atascadero Climate Action Plan Initial Study—Negative Declaration REFERENCES: California Department of Transportation.Scenic Highway Program.2013.Available at: hLtp://www.dot.ca.jzov/hq/LandA-rch/scenic hi sways/scenic hwy htm Energy Star.Learn About LEDs. 2013.Available at: htt-o://www.energystar.aov/index.cftn?c--ligh.ting.pr n?c=1iigh.ting.pr what are Governor's Office of Planning and Research.California Solar Permitting Guidebook.June 2012. Available at:http://opr.ca,gov/docs/California Solar Permitting Guidebook„pdf San Luis Obispo County Air Pollution Control District(SLOAPCD). San Luis Obispo County Attainment Status.August 20,2013.Available at: http://www.slocleanair.orWimages/ems/upload/files/AtiainmentStatus20August2013%288%29,pdf General Plan and Tuinal General Plan EIR,City of Atascadero,2002 City of Atascadero 42 City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014002 Page 53 of 55 EXHIBIT B. Addendum: Response to Comments R_,_._�...�;�,,�-��:-.:.—m.•sm......c:�.:�-�:.=»�,K.�;...,,�— : ..:_. ��n��t�L NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE COMMISSION �YYY'D��P.'vM aHCk�iftXt`8•M..SkaRt.�1 A.4. '" ft064cfamento,CA OWN C046) (Q16)373-"71 ..Salo o�C4'��.YpZ°t 6�mai8. December 13, 2013RE tf " R Ms. Callie Taylor, Senior Planner CKY of Atascadero 8500 Palma Avenue Atascadero, CA 9,3422 RE. SCIS#201311102, C'EQA Notim of Completion,, proposed Negla ive Declaration for the"Cityof Atascadero Cilmatie ActionPlan (CAP) PrO ecf$it: located in the City of Atascadero, Sari Luis Obispo County, California Dear lis. Taylor: Tho Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) has reviewed the above-reference environmental document. This project is also subject to California Government Code SOction 66040.2, 65352.3 et sty The California Environmental Quality Act(CEQA)states that any project which inolu€fes archeological resources, is a significant effect requiring the preparation of an EIR (CEQA guidelines 15064.5(b). To adequately comply with this provision and mitigate prof related impacts on archaeological resources,. the Commission recommends tate following actbns be required. Contact the appropriate Information Crater for a record search to determine :If a part or all of the area of project effect(APE) has be4�rl previously surveyed for cultural places�s), The NAHC recommends that known traditional cultural resources recorded on or adjacent to the APE be listed in the draft Environmental Impact Report(DEIR). If ars addkional archaeological inventory survey is required, the final stage is the preparation of a professional report detailing the findings and recommendations of the records search and field survey. We suggest that this be coordinated with the NAHC,if possible, The final report.containing site forms, site significance, and mitigation measurers should be submitted immediately to the planning department. All information regarding site locations, Noble American human remains, and associated funerary objects should be in a separate confldentlal addendum, and not be made available for pubic disclosure pursuant.to C,aiifomia Govemment Code Section 62 .10. City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014002 Page 54 of 55 A list of appropriate Native American Contacts fortat,n, ul ,jo 00 S n concerning the project s has been provided and is attached to this letter to determine if the proposed active might impinge on any cultural resources. Lack.of surfat e. eviderim of archeological resources does not preclude their subsurface existence.. Califomis Government Code Section 65040.12(e)defines'environmental Justice"'Co provide"fair treatment of People—with respect to the development,adoption, implementation, and enforcement of environmental fawn, regulations no a les . polic, "and Exeuifive Order B-1 0-11 requires consultation with Native AmericaI tribes their elected officials and other represenAefives of fta.,governments to Provide meaningful input into the development Of legisiatJoil, regulations, rules,and policies on matters that may aftep't bibal communities, Lead agencies should include in their mitigation plan provisions for the identification and evaluationof accidentally discovered archeological resources, pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act(CEQA) §15064.5(f). Inareas of identified archaeological sensitivity, a certified archaeologist and a Culturally affiliated Native American, with knowledge in n cultural resources, should monitor all ground-disturbing activities. Also, California Public Resources Code Section 21083.2 require documentation and analysis of archaeological items that meet the standard in Section 15064,5 (a)(b)ft Lead agencies should consider first, avoidance for sacred and/or historical sites, pursuant to CEQA.Guidelines 15370(a). 'Then if the project goes ahead then, lead agencies include in their Mitigation and monitoring plan provisions for the analysis and disposition of recovered arfilacts, pursuant to California Public Resources Code Section 21083,2 in consultation with culturally affiliated Native Americans, Lead agencies should include provisions for discovery of Native American human remains in their Mitigation plan, Health and Safety Code §7050.5, CEQA §15064.5(e), and Public Resources Code 5097,9s mandates the process to be followed in the event of an accidental discovery of any human remains in a location other than a dedicated cemetery. Sincerely, Dave Singleton Program Analyst CC: State Clearinghow,,e Attachment. Native American Contacts list City of Atascadero Resolution No.2014-002 Page 55 of 55 CITY OF ATASCADERO ADDENDUM TO INITIAL STUDY RESPONSE TO COMMENTS FOR NEGATIVE DECLARATION #2013-0003 (Draft Climate Action Plan) Dave Singleton, Native American Heritage Commission, dated December 13, 2013 Comment: a) CEQA states that any project which includes archeological resources is a significant effect requiring the preparing of an EIR. b) Contact the Information Center for a records search to determine if the area has been surveyed or if there are known traditional cultural resources. c) If additional archeological survey is required, the professional report should be coordinated with the NAHC, submitted to the planning department, and any findings kept confidential and not made available for public disclosure. A list of Native American contacts is provided. d) Lead agencies should include in their mitigation plan provisions for evaluation of accidentally discovered archeological resources, and monitoring of ground disturbance in archeological sensitive areas. Lead agencies should consider first, avoidance of sacred or historical sites, and should include provisions for discovery of Native American human remains in their mitigation plans. Response: The Atascadero Climate Action Plan is a policy-level document that does not include any site-specific development, designs, or proposals, nor does it grant any entitlements for development that will cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical, cultural, or archaeological resource. Any future site-specific discretionary projects would be subject to additional environmental review wherein any site-specific cultural resource impacts would be addressed. Discussion addressing these factors was included in the Initial Study for proposed Negative Declaration #2013-0003. No additional mitigation measures are necessary to include in the Negative Declaration at this time due to the fact that there is no site specific development proposed. Any future projects proposed shall be required to comply with the mitigation measures recommended by the Native American Heritage Commission as these measures are standard requirements for any project in the City where there may exist a possibility of encountering historical or cultural resources.