HomeMy WebLinkAbout00-0091; ~,';
COt1NTY O~ "#`'T"E, STATE OF CA~~.I`~`CTV1A
~t'S~~[~Ufl~~il ~~0. 00-09
RESOLUT[ON OF THE BOARD OF SUPER~~ISORS OF THE COUNTY OF
BUTTE APPROVING THE ADOPTION OF GENERAL PLAN TEXT FOR A
RESEARCH AND BUSINESS PARK
WHEREAS, a public entity, the Depart~~~ent of Development Services has petitioned
the Butte County Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors, through an appropriate
application, to amend the Butte County General Plan Land Use Element, to include text for a
Research and Business Park (Exhibit A-1), County-wide; and
WHEREAS, the proposed General Plan Amendment has been studied and reviewed
by the, Butte County Planning Commission and a public hearing held pursuant to law, at which time
all interested persons were heard; and
~~~HEREAS, the Butte County Board ol'Supervisors has reviewed and considered the
contents ofthe Initial Study (Exhibit A-?) prepared on the amendment pursuant to the California
Environmental Quality Act; and
WHEREAS, the Butte Cowity Board of Supervisors has held hearings on the General
Plan Amend~T~ents at which all interested parties were heard; and
WHEREAS, the Butte Caunty Board of Supervisors finds the proposed amendment
complies with all elements of the Butte County General Plan and comprises an overall internally
consistent whole, specifically:
I . The alT~endment complies with the policies of the Butte Cau11ty General Plan.
2. "I'he amendments provide Cor compatible development with existing land
uses.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED as follows:
1. The General Plan Amendment to add text for a Research and Business Park
as shown on the attached Exhibit A-1 is hereby incorporated by reference.
?. The General Plan Amendment is hereby adopted by the Board of Supervisors
of the Caunty of Butte as amendments to the Butte County General Plan
Land Use Element, said Ai~~endments to be the la~1d use policy for the
County of Butte in the affected area.
BE 1"1, FURTHER RESOLVED, that pursuant to Government Code Section 65359
that the General Plan be endorsed to show that the above amendments have been approved by this
Board.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Butte County Board of Supervisors on this 11th
day of January 200Q by the following vote:
AYES: Supervisors Beeler, Houx, Josi.assen, Davis and Chair Dolan
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
NOT VOTING: None
JAN~DOLA ,CHAIR
Butte ounty Board of Supervisors
ATTEST: .iohn S. Blackloek, Chief Administrate
Officer aid rk of the Boa
~~
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FXHTt3TT "A-1"
cENERAI. PLAN 1'Ex"r
RESEARCH & BUSINESS PARK
Principal Characteristics: Following are the principal characteristics that deFine the Research K
Business Park ]and use classification:
High quality employment centers within well-designed, well-maintained campus
Cllvll•OnmelltS.
2. High land use and design standards, with large open space areas, active and passive
recreational amenities, and extensive landscaping.
3. I]evelopment standards and design guidelines which are distinguished from other commercial
and industrial ]and use designations in the co~ulty. Land use controls which prohibit outdoor
storage and processing and minimize nuisance factors, such as Noise, light trespass, vibration,
odor, etc.
4. ~ln atmosphere that is conducive to economic development and the creation of employment
opportunities at various levels, particularly medium income, and at relatively high employee
densities.
Primary Uses: Allowable uses are nan•owly defined to assure compatibility between uses.
Industrial uses are limited to those manufacturers engaged in the production of low volume, high
value products, particularly advanced technology products. Businesses requiring outdoor
production and storage are prohibited. Following is a partial, representative listing of the primary
})C["Illltted USeS;
High and advanced technology, research and development uses, laboratories, including
university-based research and facilities used for testing and analysis of products or uses.
2. Business and professional corporate headquarters, regional offices, and data processing
facilities.
~. Uses that emphasise product development over high volume production in order to minimize
traffic associated with the transportatio~l of raw materials and products, and other nuisance
factors.
Secondary Uses: Secondary rises are limited to supporting retail and service commercial uses
intended primarily for the convenience of employees and businesses within the Business Park.
Site Designation Criteria: Following are the primary criteria for siting of Research &
Business Parks:
Preclude lands with "Orchard and Field Crops" General Plan land use designation,
including primarylproductive agricultural lands and locations which could cause
conflicts with existing agricultural operations.
2. Close proximity to existi~ig communities while creating or maintaining open space
values.
3. Close proximity and access to existing/planned highways and arterial streets.
4. Close proximity and access to exislinglplanned major infrastructure.
5. Minimal impacts on environmentally sensitive lands, such as wvetlands, areas with
sensitive habitat, and steep slopes.
6. Minimum site area ol'20~ acres.
7, Avoid 10O-year flood-prone areas and known floodwrrys.
Intensity of L'se: Following arc the primary mechanisms for controlling the intensity of uses
and ensuring a quality campus environment:
1. Comprehensive development standards contained in tl~~e Zoning Ordinance further
refine the listing of pel7nitted uses.
2. Design guidelines.
3. Natural open space areas supplemented with formal landscaping maintained by
property owners associations or public entity. Outdoor passive and active recreational
facilities arc encouraged.
Consistent Tones: Research b'c Business Park (RBP)
Toning Factors:
1. Consistency with Site Designation Criteria.
2. Sites large enough to retain open space character.
3. Minimal effects on adjacent land uses (including residential), water and air quality,
traffic flow and safety and general environmental quality.
4. Minimal impact on sensitive environmental feat~u-cs.
K\PRU.II:CIS`diPA\t3USNnRK.GPAU21iSOLU'I'I.VJNU
2
EXHIBIT "A-2"
COUNTY OF BUTTE
INITIAL STUDY
EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
I. BACKGROUND:
1. Name of Proponent: County of Butte
2. Address: 7 County Center Drive. Oroville, CA 95965 Phone: (530) 538-7601
3. Name of Proposal, if applicable: Research & Business Park General Plan
Amendment and Rezoning
4. Type of Project: General Plan Amendment and Zoning Revision
5. Project Description and Location of Parcel(s): The proposed Project consists
of a new General Plan land use designation and a new Zoning district, both of which
are entitled Research & Business Park (RBP). This new General Plan land use
designation and Zoning district are intended to provide for development of
specialized industrial, research, and commercial projects at least 200 acres in area
in locations that meet the Site Designation Criteria contained in the RBP General
Plan land use designation.
The proposed General Plan and Zoning designations may be applied to lands
anywhere within the County that meet the Site Designation Criteria and can be
developed according to the requirements of the Zoning district. The process of
identifying candidate sites that meet the General Plan criteria has not been
undertaken, and sites that meet these criteria have not been identified.
6. Assessor's Parcel Numbers: Not applicable.
7. Date Checklist Submitted: September 24, 1999
II. DETERMINATION:
On the basis of this initial evaluation:
I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the
environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
_X_ 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 the
mitigation measures described on an attached sheet have been added to the
project. A NEGATIVE DECLARATION with mitigations) will be prepared.
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Initial Study -Research & Business Park GPA/Rezoning
I find that the proposed project COULD have a significant effect on the
environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required.
I find that the praposed project MAY have a "potentially significant impact" or
"potentially significant unless mitigated" impact on the environment, but at least
one effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to
applicable legal standards, and 2) has been adequately 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.
I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the
environment, because all potentially significant effects a} have been analyzed 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.
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Prepared
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Reviewed by:
Date
Date
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Initial Study -Research & Business Park GPAtRezoning
III. ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED:
The environmental factors checked below could be potentially affected by this project,
involving at least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact" as indicated by the
checklist on the following pages.
x Aesthetics x Hazards and Hazardous - Public Services
_ Agricultural Resources Materials Recreation
X Air Quality X Hydrology and Water Quality = Transportation(Traffc
x Biological Resources =Land Use and Planning = Utilities and Service
x Cultural Resources _ Mineral Resources Systems
X Geology and Soils =Noise x Mandatory Findings of
- Population and Housing Significance
EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS:
1 } A brief explanation is required for all answers except "No Impact" answers that are adequately
supported by the information sources a lead agency cites in the parentheses following each question.
A "No Impact" answer is adequately supported if the referenced information sources show that the
impact simply does not apply to projects like the one involved (e.g. the project falls outside a fault
rupture zone}. A "No Impact" answer should be explained where it is based on project-specific
screening analysis).
2} All answers must take account of the whole action involved, including off-site as well as on-site,
cumulative as well as project-level, indirect as well as direct, and construction as well as operational
impacts.
3} "Potentially Significant Impact" is appropriate if there is substantial evidence that an effect is significant
if there are one or more "Potentially Significant Impact" entries when the determination is made, an
EIR is required.
4) "Potentially Significant Unless Mitigation Incorporated" applies where the incorporation of mitigation
measures has reduced an effect from "Potentially Significant Impact" to a "Less than Significant
Impact." The lead agency must describe the mitigation measures, and briefly explain how they reduce
the effect to a less than significant level (mitigation measures from Section XVII, "Earlier Analysis,"
may be cross-referenced}.
5) Earlier analyses may be used where, pursuant to the tiering, program EIR, or other CEQA process, an
effect has been adequately analyzed in a earlier EIR or negative declaration. Section 15063(c){3)(D).
Earlier analyses are discussed in Section XVII at the end of the checklist.
6) Lead agencies are encouraged to incorporate into the checklist references to information sources for
potential impacts (e.g. general plans, zoning ordinances}. Reference to a previously prepared or
outside document should, where appropriate, include a reference to the page or pages where the
statement is substantiated. A source list should be attached, and other sources used or individuals
contacted should be cited in the discussion.
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Initial Study -Research & Business Park GPA/Rezoning
IV. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS:
Aesthetics
Would the project:
Environmental Issue Potentially Less Than Less Than No Impact
Significant Significant With Significant
Impact Mitigation Impact
Incor orated
a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a x
scenic vista?
b) Substantially damage scenic resources, x
including, but not limited to, trees, rock
outcroppings, and historic buildings within a
state scenic highway?
c) Substantially degrade the existing visual x
character or quality of the site and its
surroundings?
d) Create a new source of substantial light or x
glare which would adversely affect day or
ni httime views in the area?
Discussion:
a) Nave a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista?
The Project will provide for the development of large (200 acres or larger) sites and the
construction of buildings that may be up to 40 feet high and cover large areas. Ground
coverage is proposed to be controlled by floor area ratio (FAR); for example, aone-
story building on a one-acre parcel could cover 21,632 square feet. However, the
proposed Zoning district requires minimum open space of 30 percent far lots 1 to 10
acres in size and 40 percent for lots 10 acres and larger.
Development as provided for in the proposed General Plan and Zoning could result in a
significant change in the visual character of sites designated for Research & Business
Park development. The majority of candidate development areas are likely to consist of
open annual grassland that is readily visible from adjoining roads. Where development
is permitted, a significant portion of the natural features of the site will be replaced by
structures, pavement, and ornamental landscaping.
Visual impact of development will be mitigated, in part, by certain provisions of the
proposed Zoning district, including minimum open space requirements (noted above}
and the requirement for preparation of and adherence to design guidelines. Design
guidelines are required to address topic areas identified in the proposed Zoning district,
including but not limited to, architecture, landscaping, signage, and lighting.
The following mitigation measure is recommended to reduce potential visual impacts to
aless-than-significant level:
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Initial Study -Research & Business Park GPA/Rezoning
Mitigation Measures:
1. A detailed environmental analysis which addresses aesthetic aspects of
development applications shall occur as part of the Master Development Plan
process.
b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock
outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway?
Refer to discussion in items "a" and "c".
c) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its
surroundings?
As noted in item "a", the proposed General Plan and Zoning designations will provide
for development of projects that are subject to stringent development standards and
design guidelines. Therefore, a substantial degradation in the existing visual character
is unlikely. However, the degree to which a particular project may be visually acceptable
or unacceptable is a matter of personal opinion, and can be influenced by a variety of
factors.
d) Create a new source of substantial fight ar glare which would adversely affect day or
nighttime views in the area?
The Project will allow for the introduction of nighttime lighting and daytime glare from
sunlight reflection in areas where light and reflection presently are non-existent.
As noted above, the proposed Zoning Ordinance requires that design guidelines be
prepared that address, among other topics, lighting. Mitigation Measure 1 will ensure
that potential lighting and glare impacts are addressed.
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 (1997) prepared by the California Department of Conservation as
an optional model to use in assessing impacts on agriculture and farmland. Would the
project:
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Initial Study -Research & Business Park GPAlRezoning
Environmental Issue Potentially Less Than Less Than No Impact
Significant Significant With Significant
Impact Mitigation Impact
Incar orated
a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, x
or Farmland of Statewide Importance
(Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared
pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and
Monitoring Program of the California
Resources Agency, to non-agricultural use?
b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural x
use, or a Williamson Act contract?
c) Involve other changes in the existing x
environment which, due to their location or
nature, could result in conversion of Farmland,
to non-a ricultural use?
Discussion:
a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance
(Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and
Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to non-agricultural use?
The minimum site requirement for the Research & Business Park land use designation
is 200 acres. This relatively large minimum site requirement could have a tendancy to
target candidate development sites in outlying areas. However, two Site Designation
Criterion incorporated into the proposed General Plan land use designation will ensure
that development does not impact agricultural areas. The first requires that lands with
the "Orchard and Field Crops" General Plan designation and primary/productive
agricultural lands and lands that could cause conflicts with existing agricultural
operations be precluded from development.
Another Site Designation Criterion requires that Research & Business Park sites be in
close proximity to existing communities. Much of the productive agricultural land in
Butte County is not in close proximity to existing communities.
Environmental review of specific development applications will occur as part of the
Master Development Plan process.
b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract?
Refer to discussion in item "a". The degree to which Williamson Rct contracts may
affect candidate RBP sites has nat been determined.
c) Involve other changes in the existing environment which, due to their location or
nature, could result in conversion of Farmland fo non-agricultural use?
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Initial Study -Research & Business Park GPAlRezoning
Effects on agricultural operations are expected to be negligible. Refer to discussion in
item "a".
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:
Environmental Issue Potentially Less Than Less Than No Impact
Significant Significant Significant
Impact With Impact
Mitigation
Incor orated
a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of X
the applicable air quality plan?
b) Violate any air quality standard or contribute X
substantially to an existing or projected air
quality violation?
c) Result in a cumulatively considerable net X
increase of any criteria 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 X
pollutant concentrations?
e) Create objectionable odors affecting a X
substantial number of eo le?
Discussion:
a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan?
Butte County is located in the central portion of the Northern Sacramento Valley Air
Basin and is under the jurisdiction of the Butte County Air Pollution Control District. The
County has been classified as being either non-attainment or transitional non-
attainment for ozone (state and federal), carbon monoxide (federal), and PM~p (state}.
However, air quality has improved aver the last three years, and the Butte County Air
Quality Management District (BCAQMD) and Butte County Association of Governments
recently submitted a redesignation request to the Environmental Protection Agency to
certify Butte County as being in attainment of air quality standards.
While the proposed Project will not result in additional residents, it could result in
alterations in travel patterns of existing residents from within and outside the county.
Inasmuch as one of the primary objectives of the Research & Business Park General
Plan and Zoning designations is creation of employment opportunities, it is likely that
development of a project will result in localized air emissions associated with commute
trips to and from new jobs. In addition, additional emissions could occur as a result of
Initial Study -Research & Business Park GPAlRezoning
vehicle trips associated with pick-up and delivery of raw materials and finished
products.
The requirement for preparation of a traffic study at the time of application for Master
Development Plan will provide a basis of analysis of potential vehicle trips and
associated emissions.
A third source of potential air emissions is operation of businesses within the Research
& Business Parks. While the RBP land use designation is specifically intended for uses
that do not create nuisances, including air emissions, it is possible that certain
manufacturing operations could result in emissions that affect local air quality.
The Butte County Air Pollution Control District recommends incorporating all feasible
mitigation measures to reduce emissions to less-than-significant levels. Mitigation
measures should be imposed an a project-by-project basis, as appropriate. The
following mitigation measure is recommended:
Mitigation Measures:
2. A detailed environmental analysis of specific development applications shall
occur as part of the Master Development Plan process. The analysis shall
include an estimate of potential mobile and point source air emissions and
provide recommendations for reducing emissions to less-than-significant levels.
b) Violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected
air quality violation?
Refer to item "a", above.
c) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria 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) ?
The potential for cumulatively considerable impacts will be determined at the time
environmental analysis of Master Development Plan applications occurs.
d) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations?
Refer to discussion in items "a" and "c", above.
e) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people?
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initial Study -Research & Business Park GPA(Rezoning
Refer to discussion in items "a" and "c", above. Language in bath the proposed RBP
General Plan and Zoning text prohibit uses that will result in nuisance factors on uses
within and beyond the Research & Business Park.
Biological Resources
Would the project:
Environmental Issue Potentially Less Than less Than No Impact
Significant Significant With Significant
Impact Mitigation Impact
Ineor orated
a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either x
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?
b} Have a substantial adverse effect on any x
riparian habitat or other sensitive natural
community identified in local or regional plans,
policies or regulations or by the California
Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service?
c) Have a substantial adverse effect on x
federally protected wetlands as defined by
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act {including,
but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal,
etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological
interruption, or other means?
d) Interfere substantially with the movement of x
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 x
protecting biological resources, such as a tree
preservation policy or ordinance?
f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted x
Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community
Conservation Plan, or other approved local,
re Tonal, or state habitat conservation Ian?
Discussion:
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?
Areas where Research & Business Park development may be proposed may include
vernal pools and other environmentally-sensitive habitat. Previous studies have
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Initial Study -Research & Business Park GPAtRezoning
revealed the presence of a number of special-status plant species within the county,
including Greene's tuctoria, hairy orcutt, Hooper's spurge, Shippe meadowfoam, and
Butte County checkerbloom. Also, some areas of the county may be winter range for
the Greater Sandhill Crane, aspecial-status species. However, since areas proposed
far development have not been identified at this time, the extent of potential impact
cannot be ascertained.
Among the Site Designation Criteria contained in the proposed General Plan text is a
requirement that sites have minimal impacts on environmentally sensitive lands, such
as wetlands, areas with sensitive habitat and steep slopes. Avoidance of sensitive
environmental features is also cited as a Zoning Factor in the proposed General Plan
text.
Inasmuch as the Zoning district suggests that clustering concepts may be used to
preserve environmentally sensitive areas, the extent of potential impact on such
features may be minimized. Specifically, RBP projects may either avoid such areas
entirely or incorporate and preserve them within the project boundary using
development clustering techniques.
~Jotwithstanding the above statements, there is a potential for modification of sensitive
habitat and adverse impacts on sensitive and special-status species. The presence of
such features cannot be assessed at this time, since candidate sites for the Research &
Business Park land use designation have not been identified.
To aid in identifying and minimizing impacts on sensitive environmental features, the
Master Development Plan submittal requirements include a biological assessment. The
following mitigation measure is recommended to aid in the environmental analysis:
Mitigation Measures:
3. The biological assessment required as part of the Master Development Plan
submittal shall be used in the completion of the overall environmental analysis
of each Master Development Plan. Special attention shall be given to potential
impacts on sensitive and special-status species and on environmentally
sensitive areas.
b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural
community identified in local or regional plans, policies or regulafions or by the
California Department of Fish and Game or U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
Refer to discussion in item "a", above.
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.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means?
Refer to discussion in item "a", above.
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Initial Study -Research & Business Park GPA/Rezoning
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?
Refer to discussion in item "a", above.
e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as
a tree preservation policy or ordinance?
Refer to discussion in item "a", above.
t) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural
Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat
conservation plan?
Refer to discussion in item "a", above.
Cultural Resources
Would the project:
Environmental Issue Potentially Less Than Less Than No Impact
Significant Significant With Significant
Impact Mitigation Impact
Incor orated
a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the X
significance of a historic resource as defined in
Section 15064.5?
b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the X
significance of an archaeological resource
pursuant to Section 15064.5?
c) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique X
paleontological resource or site or unique
geologic feature?
d} Disturb any human remains, including those X
interred outside of formal cemeteries?
Discussion:
a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historic resource as
defined in Section 15064.5?
Previously prepared environmental assessments have revealed the presence of
significant cultural resources, including historic and prehistoric sites and artifacts, at
various locations throughout the county. As such, it is possible that a site selected for
ZZ
Initial Study -Research & Business Park GPA/Rezoning
development as a Research & Business Park could result in the disturbance of such
features.
As previously noted, candidate sites for the proposed General Plan and Zoning
designations have not been identified. Thus, there is presently no means of determining
whether resources would be impacted.
Detailed on-site surveys could reveal historic and/or prehistoric features. Moreover, site
grading activities could reveal archaeological sites and artifacts not discovered during
on-site reconnaissance. The following mitigation measures are recommended:
Mitigation Measures:
4. In accordance with current County practice, if County archeological sensitivity
maps indicate that resources may be present a records search will be
conducted as part of the Master Development Plan approval process. The
results of the records search will determine the need for an on-site survey.
5. Information contained in the records search shall be incorporated into, and
guide, the environmental analysis of specific development applications that
shall occur as part of the Master Development Plan process.
b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological
resource pursuant to Section 95064.5
Refer to item "a", above
c) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique
geologic feature?
Refer to item "a", above
d) Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries?
Refer to item "a", above
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Initial Study -Research 8~ Business Park GPA/Rezoning
Geology and Soils
Would the project:
Environmental Issue Potentially Less Than less Than No Impact
Significant Significant With Significant
Impact Mitigation Impact
Incor orated
a) Expose people or structures to potential
substantial adverse effects, including the risk
of loss, injury, or death involving:
i} Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as X
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.)
ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? X
iii) Seismic-related ground failure, including X
liquefaction?
iv) Landslides? X
b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss X
of topsoil?
c} Be located in a geological unit or soil that is X
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?
d} Be located on expansive soil, as defined in X
Table 18-1-8 of the Uniform Building Code
(1994), creating substantial risks to life or
property?
e) Have soils incapable of adequately X
supporting the use of septic tanks or
alternative waste water disposal systems
where sewers are not available for the disposal
of waste water?
Discussion:
a. i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recenf A/quist-
Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or
based on other subsfantial evidence of a known fault? (Refer to Division of Mines and
Geology Special Publication 42.)
Like all of Butte County, candidate Project sites will be subject to ground shaking to
f`U1odified Mercalli VII levels. The most significant mapped fault in the area is the
Cleveland Hill Fault. The latest seismic movement on that fault occurred near Oroville in
1975.
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Initial Study -Research & Business Park GPA/Rezoning
While the northern-most edge of Butte County is approximately 50 miles south of Mt.
Lassen, a site of historic volcanic activity, there is no record of any portion of Butte
County being directly affected by a volcano in historic time. Accordingly, the probability
of volcanic activity impacting the Project area is very low.
Requirements embodied in the Uniform Building Code address the local seismic setting
(Seismic Zane 3), and should provide adequate resistance to possible seismic activity.
a.ii) Strong seismic ground shaking?
Refer to item "a.i", above.
a.iii) Seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction?
The area is considered to have low to moderate liquefaction potential.
a.iv) Landslides?
Landslides are possible in areas of steep topography, particularly where certain soil
conditions are present or where oversaturation from prolonged rainfall has caused
instability. While the cost of developing a steeply sloping site as a Research & Business
Park would likely be cost prohibitive due to the extensive grading required to create
building pads, there is a potential for such construction to occur.
Among the Site Designation Criteria in the proposed General Plan text is a requirement
that candidate Research & Business Park sites avoid steep slopes, and Master
Development Plan submittal requirements contained in the proposed Zoning text
require a slope map as part of the application process.
While the proposed General Plan text does not define "steep slopes", applications will
be required to provide information that sufficiently identifies site topography.
b) Resu/t in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil?
The potential for soil erosion varies throughout the county. Nonetheless, the proposed
RBP land use designation could provide for site development activities that expose
large areas to the erosive effects of rain and wind.
While grading volumes will be minimized somewhat by the General Plan Site
Designation Criterion that requires avoidance of steep slopes, any development project
will require surficial (i.e., relatively shallow} soil disturbance for construction of streets,
parking areas, and buildings.
Among the Master Development Plan submittal requirements is the requirement far
submittal of a conceptual grading, erasion control, and drainage plan. This information
will assist in determining the need for further erosion control measures.
14
Initial Study -Research & Business Park GPA/Rezoning
In the absence of effective erosion control measures, disturbed earth could be carried
off-site during periods of heavy rain or high winds. Watercourses and wetlands are
particularly vulnerable to siltation impacts. The following mitigation measure is
recommended to reduce potential erosion impacts to aless-than-significant level:
Mitigation Measures:
6. Construction documents shall require the construction contractor to prepare
and implement a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) in
conformity with all requirements of the "General Construction Activity Storm
Water Permit" adopted by the State Water Resources Control Board on August
20, 1992, and all additions and amendments thereto applicable at the time of
construction. Prior to commencement of construction, the developer shall file a
Notice of Intention to be covered by the General Permit.
Construction documents shall include Best Management Practices (BMPs) to
minimize and control the level of storm water runoff and provide a program to
ensure that all soil erosion and deposition is contained within the construction
site. The Plan shall include specific measures to accomplish erosion control,
such as covering slopes with straw or straw matting, vegetating exposed areas
following excavation, use of straw bales and filter cloth to prevent off-site
filtration, and water for dust control.
The General Construction Activity Storm Water Permit process is required because five
or more acres of ground surface will be disturbed by grading.
c) Be located in a geological unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable
as a result of the project, and pofentially result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral
spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse?
The valley portion of the county may be subject to varying degrees of subsidence as a
result of lowering of the groundwater table through domestic and agricultural well use.
In past years the groundwater level has been lowered as a result of prolonged drought
conditions.
d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-7-8 of the Uniform Building
Code (1994), creating substantial risks fa life or property?
Soils throughout much of the county are considered moderately expansive. This
condition is typically mitigated through conventional grading and construction
techniques.
e) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative
waste water disposal systems where sewers are not available far the disposal of waste
water?
15
Initial Study -Research & Business Park GPA/Rezoning
Candidate sites for application of the proposed General Plan and Zoning designations
have not been identified. Some, but not all, possible sites may be in close proximity to
sanitary sewers, thus negating the need for on-site, or alternative, sewage disposal
systems. In all likelihood, most candidate sites will be accessible to an existing sanitary
sewer system or will cause the extension of an existing system far the fallowing
reasons: Among the Site Designation Criteria contained in the proposed General Plan
text are requirements that sites be in close proximity to existing communities and that
sites be in close proximity to existing or planned major infrastructure. It should be noted,
however, that there is no specific prohibition against an-site systems.
Hazards and Hazardous Materials
Would the project:
Environmental Issue Potentially Less Than Less Than No Impact
Significant Significant With Significant
Impact Mitigation Impact
Incor orated
a} Create a significant hazard to the public or the X
environment through the routine transport, use,
or disposal of hazardous materials?
b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the X
environment through reasonably foreseeable
upset and accident conditions involving the
release of hazardous materials into the
environment?
c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle X
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 X
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 X
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?
f} For a project within the vicinity of a private X
airstrip, would the project result in a safety
hazard for people residing in the project area?
g) Impair implementation of or physically X
interfere with an adopted emergency response
plan or emergency evacuation plan?
h) Expose people or structures to a significant X
risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland
fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to
urbanized areas or where residences are
intermixed with wildlands?
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Initial Study -Research & Business Park GPRJRezoning
Discussion:
a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine
transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials?
The County has a Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Plan, but has no
program for regulating hazardous materials. Problems are addressed in response to
complaints received.
Creation of Research & Business Parks will increase the potential presence of
hazardous materials that may be used in certain manufacturing processes. This is in
spite of statements in the proposed General Plan text that specify that these parks are
intended far uses that will not create environmental nuisances.
As previously noted, while the proposed Zoning district text includes a representative
listing of permitted uses, specific uses are not known at this time. Therefore, potential
hazardous materials issues must be addressed at the time of Master Development Plan
application. The following mitigation measure will reduce potential impacts associated
with hazardous materials:
Mitigation Measures:
7. In conjunction with the environmental assessment performed at the time of
Master Development Plan consideration, an assessment of potential
hazardous materials that may be transported to and from, stored, created, or
used at the site shall be undertaken.
b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably
foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials
into the environment?
Refer to discussion in item "a", above.
c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials,
substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school?
Refer to discussion in item "a", above.
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?
Refer to discussion in item "a". While no candidate Research and Business Park sites
have been identified, the potential exists for hazardous materials to be present on
future development sites. This potential will be determined through a review of County
records. The following mitigation measure is recommended:
17
Initial Study - Research ~ Business Nark GPAtRezoning
Mitigation Measures:
8. If County records indicate that hazardous materials may have been used on a
site or there is a potential for past uses, a phase one site assessment shall be
performed prior to Master Development Plan approval to determine whether
hazardous materials exist on a potential development site and to recommend
remediation, as necessary.
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?
All development within proximity of an airport is subject to the Comprehensive Land
Use Plan (CLOP) adopted by the County, which specifies land use limitations based on
a variety of factors.
f) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project result in a safety
hazard for people residing in the project area?
Residential uses are not permitted in the Research and Business Park zone.
g) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response
plan or emergency evacuation plan?
Public streets are designated as the primary emergency response and evacuation
routes in the county. One of the Master Development Plan submittal requirements is
preparation of a traffic study. The study will assess the adequacy of existing and
proposed roadways to accommodate traffic associated with a proposed Research &
Business Park. Traffic study required at the time of Master Development Plan submittal
will address emergency response and evacuation.
h) Expose people or structures fo a significant risk of toss, injury or death involving
wildland fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where
residences are intermixed with wildlands?
Construction of Research & Business Parks will have the immediate effect of replacing
highly flammable non-native annual grassland with buildings, hardscape, and irrigated
landscaping. In addition to eliminating fire fuel, such projects will provide fire breaks.
The introduction of uses will, however, introduce potential sources of fire and flammable
materials. This potential impact will be addressed through specific development
standards applied at the time of Master Development Plan consideration.
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Initial Study -Research & Business Park GPA/Rezoning
Hydrology and Water Quality
Would the project:
Environmental Issue Potentially Less Than Less Than No Impact
Significant Significant With Significant
Impact Mitigation Impact
Incor orated
a) Violate any water quality standards or waste X
discharge requirements?
b) Substantially deplete groundwater supplies X
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 pre-existing 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 X
pattern of 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?
d} Substantially alter the existing drainage X
pattern of 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 X
would exceed the capacity of exi~fing or
planned stormwater drainage systems or
provide substantial additional sources of
polluted water?
f) Qtherwise substantially degrade water X
quality?
g) Place housing within a 100-year flood X
hazard area as mapped on a federal Flood
Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate
Map or other flood hazard delineation map?
h) Place within a 100-year flood hazard area X
structures which would impede or redirect flood
flows?
i) Expose people or structures to a significant X
risk of loss, injury or death involving flooding,
including flooding as a result of the failure of a
levee or dam?
Inundation b seiche, tsunami, or mudflow? X
a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements?
19
Initial Study -Research & Business Park GPA/Rezoning
Various substances that contribute to degradation of water quality, including chemicals
(e.g., motor oil from parking lots, fertilizers and pesticides from turf areas) and
suspended solids (primarily silt) can be transported in storrnwater and irrigation runoff.
The greatest potential effect may occur during site grading operations. Effective erosion
control measures (see Mitigation Measure 6} will mitigate temporary construction-
related potential erosion impacts to aless-than-significant level.
With implementation of the water quality measures contained in Mitigation Measure 6
{erosion control during construction) violations of water quality or waste discharge
requirements are not anticipated. The storm drainage plan must comply with the
requirements of the State Water Resources Control Board, General Construction
Activity Storm Water Permit, as noted in Mitigation Measure 6.
Among submittal requirements of the Zoning district is preparation of a hydrology
report.
Development will add to the volume and intensity of storm water runoff by increasing
the amount of impervious surface area on project sites. Increased runoff will increase
the amount of surface water in local watercourses. The hydrology report required at the
time of Master Development Plan submittal will address water quality issues. In addition
to the mitigation measure noted above, the following additional mitigation measure is
recommended:
Mitigation Measures:
9. Non-building setbacks of at least 100 feet shall be established from the tap of
bank or historical high water mark (whichever is greater) all perennial streams
and riparian areas. The non-building setback shall also prohibit grading
activities.
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 rafe of pre-existing
nearby wells would drop to a level which would not support existing land uses or
planned uses for which permits have been granted)?
As proposed, Research & Business Park applications must be in close proximity to
existing communities and to existing or planned major infrastructure. However, there is
no specific prohibition against the use of wells.
The following mitigation measure is recommended for any project that proposes wells in
order to address potential impacts on groundwater supplies:
Mitigation Measures:
10. Where on-site wells are proposed, an analysis shall be prepared by
hydrogeologist that describes the water demands of the proposed project and
identifies the impact that demand will have on local groundwater supplies
20
Initial Study -Research 8~ Business Park GPA1Rezoning
c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of 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?
Refer to discussion in item "a", above.
d) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of 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?
Refer to discussion in item "a", above.
e) Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or
planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of
polluted water?
Refer to discussion in item "a", above. As noted, a hydrology study is required to be
prepared and submitted with the Master Development Plan application.
f) Otherwise substantially degrade water quality?
Refer to discussion in items "a" and "e", above.
g) Place housing within a 1 DO-~~ear flood hazard area as mapped on a federal Flood
Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation map?
No housing is proposed as part of the Research & Business Park land use designation,
other than limited stay residential facilities, permitted subject to granting of a conditional
use permit.
h) Place within a 900-year flood hazard area structures which would impede or redirect
flood flows?
Avoidance of flood-prone areas is one of the Site Designation Criteria listed in the
proposed General Plan text. Accordingly, projects will not be allowed to be constructed
within 100-year flood zones, as identified in the required hydrology study and on County
maps.
i) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving
flooding, including flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam?
Refer to discussion in item "h", above. Water bodies, such as Oroville Lake and
Thermalito Forebay and Afterbay, could cause widespread flooding of certain potential
21
Initial Study -Research & Business Park GPA/Rezoning
project sites in the event of dam failure. Construction within areas subject to such
flooding is subject to review and approval of the State Department of Water Resources.
j) Inundation by seiche, Tsunami, or mudflow?
Refer to discussion in item "i", above.
Land Use and Planning
Would the project:
Environmental Issue Potentially Less Than Less Than No Impact
Significant Significant With Significant
Impact Mitigation Impact
Incor orated
a} Physically divide an established community? x
b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan, x
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?
c) Conflict with any applicable habitat x
conservation plan or natural community
conservation Ian?
Discussion:
a) Physically divide an established community?
Candidate sites have not been identified; therefore, the potential for a RBP project to
divide an established community cannot be ascertained. One of the Site Designation
Criteria in the proposed General Plan text stipulates that proposed projects must be in
close proximity to existing communities while creating or maintaining open space
values. While creation of a physical division in a community is unlikely, the potential
exists. This issue will be addressed on a project-specific basis as part of the
environmental review process.
b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation of an agency with
jurisdiction over the project (including, but not limited to the general plan, specific plan,
local coastal program, or zoning ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or
mitigating an environmental effect?
The Project provides for amendments to the Butte County General Plan and Zoning
Ordinance. As such, where it is applied it will replace the existing General Plan and
Zoning designations currently applicable. The proposed General Plan and Zoning
designations are intended to provide land use policy and ordinance direction that is
internally consistent.
22
Initial Study -Research & Business Park GPA/Rezoning
While the proposed Research and Business Park designation include requirements that
do not exist in current County General Plan designations and Zoning districts, similar
projects could be proposed in existing Zoning districts.
c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural community
conservation plan?
Provisions of the proposed General Plan and Zoning text preclude development of sites
with sensitive environmental features.
Mineral Resources
Would the project:
Environmental Issue Potentially Less Than Less Than No Impact
Significant Significant With Significant
Impact Mitigation Impact
Incor orated
aj Result in the loss of availability of a known x
mineral resource that would be of value to the
region and the residents of the state?
b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally- x
important mineral resource recovery site
delineated on a local general plan, specific
Ian or other land use Ian?
Discussion:
a) Result in the lass of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to
the region and the residents of the state?
The potential presence of important mineral resources that could be affected by
development cannot be ascertained because candidate sites have not been selected.
This issue will be addressed as part of the environmental assessment performed for
individual Research and Business Park development requests.
b) Resu/t in the loss of availability of alocally-important mineral resource recovery site
delineated on a local genera! plan, specific plan or other land use plan?
Refer to discussion in item "a".
23
Initial Study -Research & Business Park GPA/Rezoning
Noise
Would the project result in:
Environmental Issue Potentially Less Than Less Than No Impact
Significant Significant With Significant
Impact Mitigation Impact
Incor orated
a} Exposure of persons to or generation of X
noise levels in excess of standards established
in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or
applicable standards of other agencies?
b} Exposure of persons to or generation of X
excessive groundborne vibration or
groundborne noise levels?
c} A substantial permanent increase in ambient X
noise levels in the project vicinity above levels
existing without the project?
d} A substantial temporary or periodic increase X
in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity
above levels existing without the project?
e} For a project located within an airport land X
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?
f) For a project within the vicinity of a private X
airstrip, would the project expose people
residing or working in the project area to
excessive noise levels?
Discussion:
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?
Currently, noise levels in most undeveloped areas of the county are relatively low, the
loudest of which are generated by traffic on highways and other streets. Noise impacts
associated with ultimate development of Research & Business Park projects are both
short- and long-term in nature. Short-term impacts will occur as a result of construction
activities, including use of earthmoving equipment and power tools. Long-term noise
impacts will result from increases in automobile traffic and noise associated with
ultimate land uses.
The highest potential noise levels are likely to occur during construction activities. For
example, heavy earthmoving equipment can be expected to generate noise levels of
between 85 to 90 decibels (dBA) at a distance of 50 feet from the source, and chain
saws used for tree removal will create noise levels of 95 dBA at a distance of 50 feet.
24
Initial Study -Research 8~ Business Park GPA/Rezoning
As stated in the proposed General Plan text, uses in the Research & Business Park
land use designation are intended to be compatible with uses within and adjacent to the
project and should not create nuisance factors, such as noise. Nonetheless, certain
uses could cause noise impacts as a result of traffic and routine operations. All
proposed Research and Business Parks are subject to the Noise Element of the County
General Plan, which establishes land use compatibility standards applicable at all
potential uses.
b) Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive groundborne vibration or
groundborne noise levels?
Refer to item "a".
c) A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above
levels existing without the project?
Refer to item "a" and Mitigation Measure 18.
d) A substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project
vicinity above levels existing without the project?
Refer to item "a" and Mitigation Measure 18.
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
expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels?
The Comprehensive Land Use Plan controls land use near airports. In so doing, noise
exposure from airplane overflights is also addressed.
~ 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?
There will be no residential development with the Research and Business Park zone.
25
Initial Study -Research & Business Park GPA/Rezoning
Population and Housing
Would the project:
Environmental Issue Potentially Less Than Less Than No Impact
Significant Significant Significant
Impact With Impact
Mitigation
Incor orated
a) Induce substantial population growth in an X
area, either directly (for example, by proposing
new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for
example, through extension of roads or other
infrastructure)?
b) Displace substantial numbers of existing X
housing, necessitating the construction of
replacement housing elsewhere?
c) Displace substantial numbers of people, X
necessitating the construction of replacement
housin elsewhere?
Discussion:
a) Induce substantial population growth in an area, either directly (for example, by
proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of
roads or other infrastructure)?
The proposed Research & Business Park designation will create job opportunities;
however, no housing is proposed.
Development as envisioned in the Research & Business Park concept could require
extension of certain infrastructure into an area, particularly roads, and water and sewer
trunklines. Sewer and water facility extensions would be required unless the area is to
be served by on-site wastewater and water facilities.
While the proposed General Plan text suggests that "leap-frog" development and
growth inducing impacts will be minimized through the requirement that RBP sites be in
close proximity to infrastructure systems and the requirement for proximity to existing
communities, projects could create demand for new housing and could be viewed as
growth inducing.
The potential for growth inducement will be addressed on asite-specific basis at the
time Research and Business Park projects are proposed.
b) Displace substantial numbers of existing housing, necessitating the construction of
replacement housing elsewhere?
Development is expected to occur on vacant sites; therefore, there will be no direct
displacement of housing. Moreover, indirect displacement as a result of creation of
26
Initial Study -Research & Business t'ark GPAIRezoning
incompatible uses is unlikely given the land use controls embodied in the Zoning text
which are intended to minimize nuisance factors.
c) Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating the construction of
replacement housing elsewhere?
Refer to discussion in item "b", above. No aspect of the proposed General Plan and
Zoning texts are intended to result in the displacement of people.
Public Services
Would the project result in substantial 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 objectives for any of the fallowing public services:
Environmental Issue Potentially
Significant
Impact Less Than
Significant With
Mitigation
Incor orated Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
a} Fire protection? X
b} Police protection? X
c} Schools? X
d} Parks? X
e Other ublic facilities? X
Discussion:
a) Fire protection?
Fire protection services are provided by the Butte County Fire Department, assisted by
California Department of Forestry through an annual contract with the County. Twenty-
one stations are staffed around the clock during summer and 17 stations are fully
staffed during winter. An existing mutual aid agreement with the City of Chico requires
specific requests for assistance an an incident-by-incident basis.
No changes in fire protection are proposed as part of this Project; however, creation of
Research & Business Parks will add to the work load of the fire department by
introducing buildings and property subject to fire damage, by introducing potentially
hazardous materials, and by introducing persons who could require emergency
response.
The requirement for preparation of an infrastructure plan will identify fireflow availability.
Appropriate Fire Department standards will be applied on aproject-specific basis at the
time of Master Development Plan consideration.
27
Initial Study - Research ~ Business Park GPAlRezoning
b) Police protection?
Law enforcement is provided by the Butte County Sheriffs Department. Traffic
enforcement is provided by the California Highway Patrol in unincorporated areas.
In 1995, the Sheriffs Department had 214 sworn and unsworn deputies. It's adopted
service ratio goal is one (1) officer per 1000 population. (The statewide average is 1.6
officers per 1000.) As of 1995, the Department achieved a service ratio of 0.96 officers
per 1000 population.
The primary Sheriffs Department office is in Oroville, with branch offices in Chico and
Paradise Pines. The Sheriff has a mutual aid agreement with the City of Chico.
No changes in police protection are proposed. However, RBP projects will add to the
Sheriffs department and Highway Patrol workload in the following ways: The addition of
buildings and equipment will increase the potential for theft and vandalism, and the
addition of employees will increase the potential for crimes against persons.
Furthermore, the work load of the Highway Patrol will increase as a result of additional
vehicles associated with workforce commute and deliveries of goods and materials.
Security issues will be addressed on aproject-specific basis at the time of Master
Development Plan submittal. Impact fees collected in the development review process
will adequately address the cast of providing Sheriffs services to new development.
c) Schools?
Schools in the county will be affected by proposed development in two ways, as
follows: While schools will receive revenue on aper-square-foot basis for all new
buildings (Sterling Fees), workers from outside the school district may have the ability to
enroll their children in schools in the district in which they are employed, thus impacting
schools.
The County has determined that Sterling fees, collected at the time of building permit
application, will adequately address potential impacts an schools.
d) Parks ?
Project employees may utilize public parks; therefore an unquantificable impact on park
facilities is likely. However, the Research & Business Park concept specifically calls for
inclusion of recreational amenities and open space far the benefit and enjoyment of
employees. Thus, the potential impact on parks outside the project sites will be reduced
by same factor.
e) Other public facilities?
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Initial Study -Research & Business Park GPA/Rezoning
Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) provides electricity and gas service to many
areas in the county. Telephone service is provided by Pacific Bell Company, and cable
television services are provided by Chambers Cable Company. The extent and capacity
of facilities are not known at this time. Furthermore, the adequacy of facilities cannot be
ascertained in advance of identification of candidate sites and identification of specific
uses.
Recreation
Environmental Issue Potentially
Significant
Impact Less Than
Significant With
Mitigation
Incor orated Less Than
Significant
Impact No Impact
a) Would the project increase the use of X
existing neighborhood and regional parks or
other recreational facilities such that physical
deterioration of the facility would occur or be
accelerated?
b) Does the project include recreational X
facilities or require the construction or
expansion of recreational facilities which might
have an adverse physical effect on the
environment?
Discussion:
a) Would the project increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or
other recreational facilities such that physical deterioration of the facility would occur or
be accelerated?
Refer to discussion in Public Services, item "d".
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?
Refer to discussion in Public Services, item "d".
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Initial Study -Research 8~ Business Park GPA/Rezoning
TransportationiTraffic
Would the project:
Environmental Issue Potentially Less Than Less Than No Impact
Significant Significant With Significant
Impact Mitigation Impact
Incor orated
a) Cause an increase in traffic which is X
substantial in relation to the existing traffic load
and capacity of the street system (i.e., result in
a substantial increase in either the number of
vehicle trips, the volume-to-capacity ratio on
roads, or congestion at intersections)?
b) Exceed, either individually or cumulatively, a X
level of service standard established by the
county congestion management agency for
designated roads and highways?
c) Result in a change in air traffic patterns, X
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 X
design features (e.g., sharp curves or
dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses
(e.g., farm equipment)?
e) Result in inadequate emergency access? X
f} Result in inadequate parking capacity? X
g) Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or X
programs supporting alternative transportation
e. ., bus turnouts, bic cle racks ?
Discussion:
a) Cause an increase in traffic which is substantial in relation to the existing traf>ic load
and capacity of the street system (i. e., result in a substantial increase in either the
number of vehicle trips, the volume-to-capacity ratio on roads, or congestion at
intersections) ?
Research & Business Parks could result in substantial traffic volumes, could severely
impact local roadways, and will have a cumulative effect on the regional street system.
As previously noted, candidate sites for Research & Business Park land use have not
been designated. Moreover, since specific projects have not been proposed, traffic
generation associated with particular uses cannot be projected.
While one of the Site Designation Criteria in the proposed General Plan calls for
designation of sites in close proximity to existinglplanned highways and arterials
streets, improvements are expected to include construction of new streets, widening
and realignment of existing streets, construction of overcrossings, and installation of
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Initial Study -Research & Business r'ark GPA/Rezoning
traffic controls. The degree to which such improvements may mitigate potential impacts
cannot be accurately determined without further site specific analyses.
Among the submittal requirements for Master Development Plans contained in the
proposed Zoning Ordinance text is preparation and submittal of a Traffic Study, which
will address a variety of circulation-related issues.
b) Exceed, either individually or cumulatively, a level of service standard established by
fhe county cangesfion management agency for designated roads and highways?
The potential for a project to exceed a level of service standard cannot be determined
at this time. Refer to discussion in item "a", above and Mitigation Measure 25.
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?
Air traffic will not be affected.
d) Substantially increase hazards due to a design features (e.g., sharp curves or
dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)?
Many of the roads in the undeveloped areas of the county are narrow and have design
limitations that make them unsuitable for increased traffic and higher speeds.
To the extent that proposed Research & Business Parks are intended to minimize
disturbance of existing agricultural lands and uses, farming operations are expected to
continue in the vicinity of some projects. Accordingly, the presence of farm equipment
on streets near projects could create conflicts with project traffic.
This potential impact cannot be fully assessed at this time since candidate sites have
not been identified. The traffic study required as part of the Master Development Plan
process will address this potential impact.
e) Result in inadequate emergency access?
As previously noted in Mitigation Measure 9, the traffic study required at the time of
Master Development Plan submittal will be required to address potential impacts on
emergency access and evacuation.
f) Result in inadequate parking capacity?
RII parking needs are required to be met on each project site, in accordance with
provisions of County Zoning Ordinance Section 24-240.
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Initial Study -Research & Business r'ark GPPJRezoning
g) conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs supporting alternative
transportation (e.g., bus turnouts, bicycle racks)?
It is anticipated that some employees of proposed Research & Business Parks will
commute to and from work by means other than automobile. The primary alternative
means of transportation include walking, bicycling, and use of public transit (i.e., bus).
The Design Guidelines section of the proposed Zoning text requires that Master
Development Plans include design guidelines that include pedestrian and bicycle
circulation plans and provision far public transit.
The Traffic Study required as part of the Master Development Plan process will address
pedestrian circulation issues.
Utilities and Service Systems
Would the project:
Environmental Issue Potentially Less Than Less Than No Impact
Significant Significant With Significant
Impact Mitigation Impact
Incor orated
a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements X
of the applicable Regional Water Quality
Control Board?
b) Require or result in the construction of new X
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 constructio^. of new X
storm water drainage facilities or expansion of
existing facilities, the construction of which
could cause significant environmental effects?
d) Have sufficient water supplies available to X
serve the project from existing entitlements and
resources, or are new or expanded
entitlements needed?
e) Result in a determination by the wastewater X
treatment provider which serves the project
that it has adequate capacity to serve the
project's projected demand in addition of the
provider's existing commitments?
f) Be served by a landfill with sufficient X
permitted capacity to accommodate the
project's solid waste disposal needs?
g) Comply with federal, state, and local X
statutes and re ulations related to solid waste?
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Initial Study -Research & Business Park GPA/Rezoning
QISCUSS1011:
a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable Regional Water Quality
Control Board?
The County is presently under an abatement order to eliminate nitrate contamination of
groundwater in the Chico urban area.
In the absence of having candidate sites identified and knowing the wastewater
discharge characteristics of RBP uses, it is impossible to assess the potential for RBP
projects to exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the Regional Water Quality
Control Board.
Wastewater conveyance and treatment issues will be addressed by the Infrastructure
Plan required as part of the Master Development Plan process.
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?
Among the Site Designation Criteria contained in the proposed General Plan text is the
requirement that RBP sites be in close proximity to existing/planned major
infrastructure. While infrastructure extensions will be required in many instances,
another Site Designation Criterion requires that sites be in close proximity to existing
communities. This will have the effect of reducing the length of water and wastewater
extensions.
However, nothing in the proposed General Plan text would prohibit the use of on-site
water and wastewater systems, if deemed appropriate.
Among the proposed Master Development Plan submittal requirements is a
requirement for preparation of a schematic infrastructure plan showing the size and
availability of facilities.
As noted above (item "a"'), wastewater conveyance and treatment issues will be
addressed by the Infrastructure Plan required as part of the Master Development Plan
process.
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?
Refer to discussion in items "a" and "b", above.
d) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project from existing
entitlements and resources, or are new or expanded entitlements needed?
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Initial Study -Research & Business nark GPR1Rezoning
Refer to discussion in items "a" and "b", above.
e) Result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider which serves the
project that it has adequate capacity fo serve the project's projected demand in addition
of the provider's existing commitments?
Refer to discussion in items "a" and "b", above.
1J Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the project's
solid waste disposal needs?
Refuse is transported by private hauler to the County-owned Neal Road Landfill. The
landfill is operated by a private company, under contract with the County. In 1992, it
was estimated that the 101-acre site could continue to accept refuse for an additional
15 years.
No changes in solid waste generation, pick-up, or disposal are anticipated. However,
development of RBP sites could impact the landfill during construction and on a long-
term basis. Solid waste disposal will be addressed on aproject-specific basis at the
time individual Research and Business Park projects are proposed.
g) Comply with federal, state, and local statutes and regulations related to solid waste?
P,efer to discussion in item "f' and Mitigation Measure 30, above.
Mandatory Findings of Significance
Environmental Issue Potentially Potentially Less Than Na Impact
Significant Significant Significant
Unless
Miti ated
a) Does the project have the potential to degrade X
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 which are X
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).
c) Does the project have environmental effects X
which will cause substantial adverse effects on
human bein s, either direct) or indirect) ?
34
Initial Study -Research & Business ~ ark GPAIRezoning
Discussion:
a) Does the project have the potential fo degrade the quality of the environment,
substantially reduce the habitat of a ash 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 resfrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or
animal, or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or
prehistory?
While approval of RBP projects would have the potential to create significant impacts
on the environment, mitigation measures included as part of the project will reduce
those potential impacts to less-than-significant levels. Rlsa, as previously noted, further
environmental analysis will occur on a project-specific basis following identification of
candidate sites and submittal of individual RBP project proposals.
b) Does the project have impacts which 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).
Cumulatively considerable impacts are possible, but cannot be accurately identified
until detailed environmental analysis is performed. Refer to the discussion in item "a",
above.
c) Does the project have environmental effects which will cause substantial adverse
effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly?
Refer to discussion in items "a" and "b", above.
V. MITIGATION MEASURES AND MONITORING REQUIREMENTS:
1. A detailed environmental analysis which addresses aesthetic aspects of
development applications shall occur as part of the Master Development Plan
process.
2. A detailed environmental analysis of specific development applications shall occur
as part of the Master Development Plan process. The analysis shall include an
estimate of potential mobile and point source air emissions and provide
recommendations for reducing emissions to less-than-significant levels.
3. The biological assessment required as part of the Master Development Plan
submittal shall be used in the comp-etion of the overall environmental analysis of
each Master Development Plan. Special attention shall be given to potential
impacts on sensitive and special-status species and on environmentally sensitive
areas.
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Initial Study -Research & Business Nark GPAlRezoning
4. In accordance with current County practice, if County archeological sensitivity
maps indicate that resources may be present a records search will be conducted
as part of the Master Development Plan approval process. The results of the
records search will determine the need for an on-site survey.
5. Information contained in the records search shall be incorporated into, and guide,
the environmental analysis of specific development applications that shall occur as
part of the Master Development Plan process.
6. Construction documents shall require the construction contractor to prepare and
implement a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan {SWPPP} in conformity with all
requirements of the "General Construction Activity Storm Water Permit" adopted
by the State Water Resources Control Board on August 20, 1992, and all additions
and amendments thereto applicable at the time of construction. Prior to
commencement of construction, the developer shall file a Notice of Intention to be
covered by the General Permit.
Construction documents shall include Best Management Practices {BMPs) to
minimize and control the level of storm water runoff and provide a program to
ensure that all soil erasion and deposition is contained within the construction site.
The Plan shall include specific measures to accomplish erosion control, such as
covering slopes with straw or straw matting, vegetating exposed areas following
excavation, use of straw bales and filter cloth to prevent off-site filtration, and
water for dust control.
7. In conjunction with the environmental assessment performed at the time of Master
Development Plan consideration, an assessment of potential hazardous materials
that may be transported to and from, stored, created, or used at the site shall be
undertaken.
8. If County records indicate that hazardous materials may have been used on a site
or there is a potential for past uses, a phase one site assessment shall be
performed prior to Master Development Plan approval to determine whether
hazardous materials exist on a potential development site and to recommend
remediation, as necessary.
9. Non-building setbacks of at least 100 feet shall be established from the top of bank
or historical high water mark {whichever is greater) all perennial streams and
riparian areas. The non-building setback shall also prohibit grading activities.
10. Where on-site wells are proposed, an analysis shall be prepared by hydrogeologist
that describes the water demands of the proposed project and identifies the impact
that demand will have on local groundwater supplies
36
Initial Study -Research & Business rk GPA/Rezoning
ENVIRONMENTAL REFERENCE MATERIAL
1. Butte County Planning Department. Fa~h_q~.aake and Fault Activity Map 11-1,
Seismic Safety Element. Oroville, CA: CH2M Hill, 1977.
2. Butte County Planning Department. l i~uPfactic~n Potential Ma{;Z 11:~ Seismic
Safety Element Oroville, CA: CH2M Hill, 1977.
3. Butte County Planning Department. S~,hsidence and Landslide Potential Maa
111-1, Safety Elements Oroville, CA CH2M Hill, 1977.
4. Butte County Planning Department. Erosion Potential Ma 1~ 11.2 Safety Element.
Oroville, CA: CH2M Hill, 1977.
5. Butte County Planning Department. Expansive Soils Ma~111-3, Safety Element.
Oroville, CA: CH2M Hill, 1977.
6. Butte County Planning Department. Nt71sP Element Map IV-1 Scenic Highwav
Element. Oroville, CA: CH2M Hill, 1977.
7. Butte County Planning Department. Scenic Highway~a_p V-1, Scenic Highwav
Element. Oroville, CA: CH2M Hill, 1977.
8. Butte County Planning Department. Natural Fir~H_azard Classes Map 111-4.
Safety Element. Oroville, CA: CH2M Hill, 1977.
9. Butte County Planning Department. Archaeological Sensitivity Maa. Oroville, CA:
James P. Manning, 1983.
10. Butte County Planning Department. Scho41 District Man. Oroville, CA.
11. Northwestern District Department of Water Resources. (;hic:c~ Nitrate Study Map.
Nitrate Concentration in Shallow Wells The Resources Agency, State of
California, 1983.
12. Butte County Board of Supervisors. Agri ~Itt~ral Preservers M_a_y~, established by
Resolution No. 67-178. Oroville, CA: Butte County Planning Department, 1987.
13. National Flood Insurance Program. Flood Insurance Rate Mates. Federal
Emergency Management Agency. 1989.
14. USGS Quad Maps.
15. Ss~i~~a~. Chico ~1925}10roville (1926 Aroma, United States Department of
Agriculture.
16. Soil Survey of Ghico (~)/Oroville X1926) Area. United States Department of
Agriculture.
17. Butte County Planning Department. Butte County Fire Protection ,lurisdictions and
Facilities Man. Butte County Fire Department and California Department of
Forestry, 1989.
37