May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 1 ______CITY OF FERNDALE – HUMBOLDT COUNTY CALIFORNIA – U.S.A. STUDY SESSION
Location: City Hall Date: May 19, 2021 834 Main Street Time: 6:00 pm Ferndale CA 95536 Posted: May 15, 2021 This meeting is being held in accordance with the Brown Act as currently in effect under the State Emergency Services Act, the Governor’s Emergency Declaration related to COVID-19, and the Governor’s Executive Order N-29-20 issued on March 17, 2020 that allows attendance by members of the City Council, City staff, and the public by teleconference, videoconference, or both. We are strongly recommending that public comments for this meeting be submitted prior to the meeting. Public comments should be submitted to [email protected] by 4:00pm on Wednesday, May 19, 2021, please be sure to put “Public Comment “in the subject line, and include the agenda item if applicable. All public comments received by 4pm will be read into the record (limit to 5 minutes) during the regular meeting. To provide public comment during the meeting, you will need to join the Zoom meeting.
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1. CALL STUDY SESSION TO ORDER – Mayor 2. DISCUSSION a. Goals & Priorities 3. ADOURN STUDY SESSION May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 2 ______CITY OF FERNDALE – HUMBOLDT COUNTY CALIFORNIA – U.S.A. AGENDA - REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Location: City Hall Date: May 19, 2021 Time: 7:00 pm Posted: May 15, 2021
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You may also dial in using your telephone by using either number: (Use *6 to mute and unmute) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma) Meeting ID: 812 6830 5226 Passcode: 407940
1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER – Mayor 2. PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG 3. ROLL CALL – City Clerk: Mayor Hindley; Councilman Avis; Councilman Lund; Councilman Ostler; and Councilman Smith. 4. REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION –None 5. CEREMONIAL – Proclamation for Earthquake Preparedness Month 6. MODIFICATIONS TO THE AGENDA 7. STUDY SESSION – (a) A study session was held on Wednesday, April 28, 2021 at 2:00pm. The study session went over past city goals and priorities and the accomplishments the city has obtained over the years. The council will hold an additional study session discussing goals & Priorities on May 19, 2021 at 6:00pm. (b) A study session was help just prior to this regular meeting. The study session continued the topic on goals and priorities. 8. PUBLIC COMMENT. (This time is for persons who wish to address the Council on any matter not on this agenda and over which the Council has jurisdiction. Items requiring Council action not listed on this agenda may be placed on the next regular agenda for consideration, unless a finding is made by at least 2/3rds of the Council that the item came up after the agenda was posted and is of an urgent nature requiring immediate action. This portion of the meeting will be approximately 30 minutes’ total for all speakers, with each speaker given no more than five minutes.) 9. CONSENT CALENDAR. (All matters listed under this category are considered to be routine by the City Council and will be enacted by one motion. Unless a specific request is made by a Council Member, staff or the public, the Consent Calendar will not be read. There will be no separate discussion of these items. However, if discussion is required, May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 3 ______that item will be removed from the Consent Calendar and considered separately under “Call Items.”) a. Approval of Minutes of the April 21, 2021 Regular City Council Meeting ...... Page 6 b. Approval of Minutes of the April 28, 2021 Special City Council Meeting ...... Page 9 c. Acceptance of Checkbook Register for April 1-30, 2021 ...... Page 10 d. Acceptance of Financial Statements for April 1-30, 2021 ...... Page 14 10. CALL ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR 11. PRESENTATION a. Climate Action Plan (CAP) Update from Connor McGuigan ...... Page 37 12. PUBLIC HEARING - None 13. BUSINESS a. Appoint Applicant to Planning Commission ...... Page 55 b. Resolution 2021-06 Adopting the Initial Study & Mitigated Negative Declaration of the Citywide Sewer Replacement ...... Page 58 c. Resolution 2021-07 Adopting the Proposed Project List for FY 2021-22 SB1 Funding ...... Page 111 d. COVID-19 Update and Discussion ...... Page 115 i. Reconfirm Existence of Local Emergency 14. CORRESPONDENCE ...... Page 120 15. COMMENTS FROM THE COUNCIL 16. REPORTS a. City Manager Report ...... Page 134 b. Commission and Committee Report i. Planning Commission Minutes ...... Page 143 ii. Drainage Committee Minutes ...... Page 145 c. Minutes from Joint Power Authorities (JPAs) and Reports i. Redwood Coast Energy Authority (March 2021) ...... Page 147 ii. Redwood Region Economic Development Commission (March 2021)...... Page 152 17. ADJOURN
This notice is posted in compliance with Government Code §54954.2. The next Regular Meeting of the Ferndale City Council will be held on June 16, 2021 at 7:00 pm via Zoom. May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 4 ______
Section 1 CALL MEETING TO ORDER
Section 2 PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE
Section 3 ROLL CALL
Section 4 CLOSED SESSION REPORT OUT
Section 5 CEREMONIAL
Section 6 MODIFICATIONS TO THE AGENDA
Section 7 STUDY SESSIONS May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 5 ______
Section 8 PUBLIC COMMENT
This time is for persons who wish to address the Council on any matter not on this agenda and over which the Council has jurisdiction.
Items requiring Council action not listed on this agenda will be placed on the next regular agenda for consideration, unless a finding is made by at least 2/3rd of the Council (three of the five members) that the item came up after the agenda was posted and is of an urgent nature requiring immediate action.
This portion of the meeting will be approximately 30 minutes total for all speakers, with each speaker given no more than five minutes. Please state your name and address for the record. (This is optional.)
Section 9 CONSENT CALENDAR
All matters listed under this category are considered to be routine by the City Council and will be enacted by one motion.
Is there anyone on the Council, Staff or the public that would like to pull an item off the Consent Agenda for scrutiny? Those items will be considered separately under “Call Items.”
May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6 ______
City of Ferndale, Humboldt County, California, U.S.A. DRAFT Minutes for City Council Meeting of April 21, 2021
Mayor Don Hindley called the Regular City Council Meeting to order at 7:00 pm via Zoom Video Conference. Those present did the flag salute. Present were Mayor Hindley, Council Members Stephen Avis, Leonard Lund, Phillip Ostler, and Robin Smith, along with staff: City Manager Jay Parrish, Police Chief, Ron Sligh, and City Clerk Kristene Hall.
Report out of Closed Session: Mayor Hindley Reported there was a Closed Session held prior to tonight’s meeting. Hindley added there was no action taken in that meeting.
Ceremonial: City Clerk Kristene Hall read a proclamation declaring April Earthquake Preparedness Month.
Modifications to the Agenda: None
Report out of Study Session: None
Public Comment: None
Consent Calendar: There were four items on the Consent Calendar for approval. There were no questions from the council or public. MOTION: to approve the consent calendar. (Avis/Lund) Unanimous
Call Items Removed from Consent Calendar: None
Presentation: Recology, Inc – Linda Wise from Recology, Inc presented a PowerPoint Presentation that went over Solid Waste Regulations and Universal Collection Service. Wise explained new state regulations that have changed the regulations on solid waste. Wise explained what the Universal Collection was, how it would work, and the difference between the current and proposed universal service. Wise added that the cities current contract is expiring at the end of this year and the need to start exploring all options before this. Wise also explained SB1383 and the jurisdiction responsibilities for this bill which include adoption of an Ordinance that would include enforcement. Wise went over the cost benefit of a collaboration between Fortuna, Rio Dell and Ferndale. Wise went over the next steps towards the collection compliance which includes receiving public input, amending the current franchise agreement, adopt an ordinance, and finally implement universal collection. Councilman Avis questioned the edible food recovery system. Wise stated this would include food from grocery stores that are still edible being taken to a local food bank instead of the land fill. Avis also questioned organics. Wise stated right now there are no facilities available to take organics. Councilman Smith questioned the cost increases. Wise stated they did not have any available yet, but would be presented at the public workshops. The council thanked Linda Wise for her presentation.
Update on Energy Savings Grant – Paul Gregson gave a brief summary on the grant and what the grant requirements are. Gregson stated that these requirements are almost completed and at the May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 7 ______
next council meeting the council should be voting to adopt the CEQA reviews. Gregson added that the state will not start their review of the grant until the all the environmental reviews have been completed which will likely be next month. Gregson stated the planning grant spent approx. $375,000 which leaves approx. $5.6 million for construction. Gregson added that unfortunately the cost estimates for the total construction are approx. $9 million. Gregson stated that him and City Manager Parrish had looked at this and are proposing to do the design on all phases of the construction with the $5.6 million so that it would put the city in a better position for future grants. Avis commented on the possibility of implementing a program or programs, such as GIS, that would make maps and information more readily available.
Public Hearing: None
Business: Approve City Manager to Sign Third Amendment to Community Center Lease Agreement – City Manager Parrish stated the city had been leasing out the Community Center to the Senior Resource Center since 2016. Parrish added the current contract ends on June 30, 2021 and the city as well as the Senior Resource Center would like to extend the contract for an additional 3 years. Senior Resource Center Representative Mary Ann Banson commented on the accomplishments they had done on the building and added that next year the building will be 100 years old Councilman Lund commented that it is a great thing for the community and the seniors. MOTION: to approve the City Manager to Sign the Third Amendment to the Community Center Lease. (Avis/Lund) Unanimous
Resolution 2021-05 Providing Workers’ Compensation Coverage for Certain Volunteers: City Manager Jay Parrish explained that this resolution was a requirement from PARSAC who is our risk management authority. Parrish explained that this coverage is based on the city wanting to put together Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). Parrish added that the volunteers in the CERT program would need to be covered under the cities policy when they are dispatched in an emergency situation. Police Chief Ron Sligh explained what the CERT program is and what it involved. The volunteer program would involve background checks and several questionnaires to assist in what and where an individual can and may do. A member of the public questioned if it would be possible to put on a presentation on volunteers and what different programs are available to volunteer in. Councilman Avis questioned insurance for the volunteers of the annual creek clean up. Parrish stated that the difference between that and CERT is the creek maintenance is not the cities responsibility, it is the property owner. The city would not be able to carry insurance on volunteers on private property, only when it would pertain to city properties. Parrish also explained that there are requirements from PARSAC such as filling out all the volunteer forms and proper training. MOTION: to approve Resolution 2021-05 Providing Workers’ Compensation Coverage for Certain Volunteers. (Avis/Lund) Unanimous
Schedule Meeting to Establish Council Goals/Priorities for Staff: City Manager Parrish explained that staff had come up with some proposed dates to hold the first study session on Goals and Priorities. Parrish added the council may choose from these or select another day. The council discussed different days that worked. MOTION: to Schedule a Study Session on Goals & Priorities on April 28, 2021 at 2:00pm. (Lund/Smith) Unanimous May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 8 ______
Covid 19 Update and Reconfirm Existence of Local Emergency: Councilman Smith commented on the variants of the disease. Smith stated that the variant B-117 is moving rapidly and is 60% more contagious and spreads faster than the original virus. Smith added that the Moderna and Pfizer vaccine are the best for the B-117 variant. Smith also went over the South African and Brazilian (P-1) variants. Smith encouraged everyone to get vaccinated. Councilman Avis stated that India as had an explosion in cases. Councilman Lund questioned the Johnson & Johnson vaccine efficacy against the variants. Smith stated that the Johnson and Johnson has less efficacy than the Moderna and Pfizer, but it is still 65% effective. MOTION: to reconfirm the existence of a local emergency. (Avis/Smith) Unanimous
Correspondence: No Comments
Council Comments: Councilman Smith questioned the progress of the Flags on Main Street. Parrish stated the group has not yet presented anything to the city.
Reports: Councilman Avis questioned Parrish on emphasizing a few things on the City Managers report he felt was really good for the council to know. Councilman Smith added that the report was extensive and suggested some modifications. Mayor Hindley stated the City Managers Report was for the council to know what Parrish had done throughout the month. Parrish stated that it would be difficult to try to prioritize importance on issues but he would do whatever the council chooses. Parrish added that any member of the council may contact him throughout the month and ask questions or get updates on anything. Avis stated he was happy to see Steve Coppini had been put in charge of Streets & Roads. Avis also questioned a couple grants and the placement of a B&B at Russ Park. Parrish stated the B&B had been placed at the park a couple weeks ago and it seems to be working great. Councilman Ostler stated he like where the B&B was placed. Councilman Smith thanked Parrish for his work on this.
Mayor Hindley adjourned the meeting at 9:16 pm
Respectfully submitted
Kristene Hall City Clerk May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 9 ______
City of Ferndale, Humboldt County, California, U.S.A. DRAFT Minutes for Special City Council Meeting of April 28, 2021
Mayor Don Hindley called the Special City Council Meeting to order at 1:01 pm via Zoom Video Conference. Those present did the flag salute. Present were Mayor Hindley, Council Members Stephen Avis, Leonard Lund, Phillip Ostler, and Robin Smith, along with staff: City Manager Jay Parrish, and City Clerk Kristene Hall.
Modifications to the Agenda: None
Business: Discussion on Recology, Inc Franchise Agreement– Linda Wise from Recology was present. Wise explained today’s workshop would be to further discuss the solid waste collection. Wise stated due to covid, there had been a delay is discussing the franchise agreement ending at the end of the year. Wise did a PowerPoint presentation for the council. The PowerPoint went over new regulations that will affect the upcoming franchise agreement, Universal Collection which requires all households and businesses have garbage and recycling services, Jurisdictional Responsibilities, and Regulatory Drivers which include AB 341, AB 1826, AB 939 and SB 1383. Wise emphasized SB 1383 which targets to achieve a 75% reduction in landfilled organic waste by 2025. Wise also explained Jurisdictional responsibilities in conjunction with SB 1383. The PowerPoint also went over proposed rates and rate comparisons, a timeline of compliance deadlines, and a timeline of implementing services. Mayor Hindley questioned garbage can sizes. Wise stated there were 4 options to choose from. Councilman Smith questioned if the rates were separate from Fortuna and Rio Dell. Wise stated they were. Smith also questioned the “clean-up” bins offered. Councilman Ostler questioned mixed use businesses and residences. Councilman Avis questioned the ordinance changes needed. Wise stated the state had put out a sample ordinance to use. Councilman Lund questioned the use of senior bags and the amount of people in Ferndale that use this service. Wise stated that they do have that information but she did not have it with her. Avis questioned the process and what steps the council needed to take. Wise stated that the council will need to pass the ordinance. Wise also stated that we would also need to an extension on the current contract to get through until January 1, 2022. Mayor Hindley thanked Wise for her presentation.
Mayor Hindley adjourned the meeting at 2:02 pm
Respectfully submitted
Kristene Hall City Clerk May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 10 ______May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 11 ______May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 12 ______May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 13 ______
APRIL 2021 Deposit Recap 4.22.21 4.26.21 4.29.21 4.30.21 TOTAL-APR 21 RETAIL TAX 12,410.87 12,410.87 HIGHWAY USER TAX/VEHICLE LICENSE FEES 2,172.46 2,649.10 4,821.56 BUSINESS LIC 280.00 280.00 ANIMAL LIC - BUILDING RENTS 425.00 425.00 PERMITS 434.74 434.74 TOT 6,874.97 6,874.97 HEALTH INSPECTIONS - HCAOG - RSTP - RECYCLING GRANT - PARSAC - GRANT / OTHER - COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT-STREETS & ROADS - SEPTIC DUMPS / SEWER REVENUE 27,956.00 27,956.00 FRANCHSE FEES 16,103.32 16,103.32 HUMBOLDT CTY - COPS 10,162.22 10,162.22 DONATIONS - POLICE SERVICES 20.00 20.00 SMALL MISC 206.39 206.39 DRAINAGE FEES 300.00 300.00 COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT-PROPERTY TAXES - COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT-SEWER - COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT-INTEREST INCOME - STATE - CAL TRANS - STREET SWEEP - DENTAL INS DIVIDENDS - SDRMA - MISC: COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT-MEASURE Z - 2,172.46 12,410.87 62,762.64 2,649.10 79,995.07
S:\CITY DOCS CITY CLERK\Meetings\City Council\2021\5. 05.19.21\April Deposits May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 14 ______City of Ferndale Balance Sheet Fund 10 - General Fund As of April 30, 2021
Assets
Current Assets Cash $ 513,207.53 Restricted Cash 15,150.00 Accounts Receivable 13,136.00
Total Current Assets 541,493.53
Total Assets $ 541,493.53
Liabilities and Fund Balance
Current Liabilities Accounts Payable $ 84,443.14 Accrued Liabilities 2,563.19 Other Current Liabilities 653.76
Total Current Liabilities 87,660.09
Total Liabilities 87,660.09
Fund Balance Retained Earnings 453,833.44
Total Fund Balance 453,833.44
Total Liabilities and Fund Balance $ 541,493.53
No Assurance is Provided No Disclosures are Provided 1 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 15 ______City of Ferndale Balance Sheet Fund 22-Gas Tax As of April 30, 2021
Assets
Current Assets Cash $ 2,462.02
Total Current Assets 2,462.02
Total Assets $ 2,462.02
Liabilities and Fund Balance
Current Liabilities
Total Current Liabilities $ 0.00 Total Liabilities 0.00
Fund Balance Retained Earnings 2,462.02
Total Fund Balance 2,462.02
Total Liabilities and Fund Balance $ 2,462.02
No Assurance is Provided No Disclosures are Provided 1 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 16 ______City of Ferndale Balance Sheet Fund 23 - RSTP Fund As of April 30, 2021
Assets
Current Assets Cash $ 8,477.67
Total Current Assets 8,477.67
Total Assets $ 8,477.67
Liabilities and Fund Balance
Current Liabilities
Total Current Liabilities $ 0.00
Total Liabilities 0.00
Fund Balance Retained Earnings 8,477.67
Total Fund Balance 8,477.67
Total Liabilities and Fund Balance $ 8,477.67
No Assurance is Provided No Disclosures are Provided 1 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 17 ______City of Ferndale Balance Sheet Fund 24 - Transportation Development Act As of April 30, 2021
Assets
Current Assets Cash $ 201,575.12
Total Current Assets 201,575.12
Total Non Current Assets
Total Assets $ 201,575.12
Liabilities and Fund Balance
Current Liabilities
Total Current Liabilities $ 0.00
Fund Balance Retained Earnings 201,575.12
Total Fund Balance 201,575.12
Total Liabilities and Fund Balance $ 201,575.12
No Assurance is Provided No Disclosures are Provided 1 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 18 ______City of Ferndale Balance Sheet Fund 26 - Drainage Fund As of April 30, 2021
Assets
Current Assets Cash $ (8,347.68)
Total Current Assets (8,347.68)
Total Assets $ (8,347.68)
Liabilities and Fund Balance
Current Liabilities
Total Current Liabilities $ 0.00
Total Liabilities 0.00
Fund Balance Retained Earnings (8,347.68)
Total Fund Balance (8,347.68)
Total Liabilities and Fund Balance $ (8,347.68)
No Assurance is Provided No Disclosures are Provided 1 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 19 ______City of Ferndale Balance Sheet Fund 25 - Integrated Waste Mgt As of April 30, 2021
Assets
Current Assets Cash $ 50,525.07
Total Current Assets 50,525.07
Total Assets $ 50,525.07
Liabilities and Fund Balance
Current Liabilities
Total Current Liabilities $ 0.00
Total Liabilities 0.00
Fund Balance Retained Earnings 50,525.07
Total Fund Balance 50,525.07
Total Liabilities and Fund Balance $ 50,525.07
No Assurance is Provided No Disclosures are Provided 1 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 20 ______City of Ferndale Balance Sheet Fund -30 - Sewer As of April 30, 2021
Assets
Current Assets Cash $ 467,861.08 Accounts Receivable 10,446.00
Total Current Assets 478,307.08
Property and Equipment Vehicles 42,332.05 Equipment 87,061.27 Sewer system 13,459,674.06 Less Accumulated Depreciation (3,216,775.78)
Net Property and Equipment 10,372,291.60
Total Assets $ 10,850,598.68
Liabilities and Fund Balance
Current Liabilities Interest Payable $ 42,027.60
Total Current Liabilities 42,027.60
Long-Term Liabilities Notes Payable USDA 4,247,000.00
Total Long-Term Liabilities 4,247,000.00
Total Liabilities 4,289,027.60
Fund Balance Other Equity 6,649,092.60 Retained Earnings (87,521.52)
Total Fund Balance 6,561,571.08
Total Liabilities and Fund Balance $ 10,850,598.68
No Assurance is Provided No Disclosures are Provided 1 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 21 ______City of Ferndale Balance Sheet GASB 34 ASSETS AND LIABILITIES As of April 30, 2021
Assets
Property and Equipment Buildings and improvements 479,444.72 Vehicles 173,365.86 Equipment 190,460.12 Roadways 10,782,034.50 Sidewalks 173,300.00 Streetlights 31,684.18 Land 131,000.00 Less Accumulated Depreciation (9,426,667.96)
Net Property and Equipment 2,534,621.42
Total Assets $ 2,534,621.42
Liabilities and Fund Balance
Long-Term Liabilities Accrued Vacation/Sick pay 52,946.94 Notes payable-current 27,992.79 Capital leases payable 27,632.67
Total Long-Term Liabilities 108,572.40
Fund Balance Other Equity 2,421,746.06 Retained Earnings 4,302.96
Total Fund Balance 2,426,049.02
Total Liabilities and Fund Balance $ 2,534,621.42
No Assurance is Provided No Disclosures are Provided 1 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 22 ______City of Ferndale Income Statement Fund 10 - General Fund
1 Month Ended 10 Months FY 2020/2021 Ended April 30, 2021 April 30, 2021 Over/(Under) Actual Actual Budget Budget REVENUES
Revenues - Taxes 10014102 Property tax-secured $ 0.00 $ 81,331.69 $ 147,290.00 $ (65,958.31) 10014104 Property tax-unsecured 0.00 5,837.94 5,665.00 172.94 10014106 Property tax-prior 0.00 247.64 2,060.00 (1,812.36) 10014107 Supplemental role 0.00 1,196.23 2,472.00 (1,275.77) 10014110 Sales and use tax 0.00 103,182.49 128,000.00 (24,817.51) 10014111 Trash franchise 0.00 7,807.40 5,600.00 2,207.40 10014112 PG&E franchise 0.00 13,050.17 11,000.00 2,050.17 10014114 Cable franchise 0.00 11,177.30 24,000.00 (12,822.70) 10014116 Business license tax 280.00 11,630.00 10,800.00 830.00 10014118 Real Property Transfer tax 0.00 6,504.68 3,000.00 3,504.68 10014120 Transient lodging tax 0.00 96,817.73 104,987.36 (8,169.63) 10014121 TOT Humboldt Lodging Authority 0.00 13,641.60 20,981.74 (7,340.14)
Total Revenue - Taxes $ 280.00 $ 352,424.87 $ 465,856.10 $ (113,431.23)
Revenues - Licenses and Permits 10024132 Construction permits $ 364.74 $ 30,155.35 $ 40,800.00 $ (10,644.65) 10024164 Health protection 100.00 2,950.00 2,800.00 150.00 10024166 Encroachment permits 70.00 375.00 350.00 25.00 10024278 Animal license fees 0.00 576.25 1,400.00 (823.75)
Total Revenue - Licenses and Permits $ 534.74 $ 34,056.60 $ 45,350.00 $ (11,293.40)
Revenues - Use of Money and Property 10044182 Interest $ 0.00 $ 4,693.48 $ 16,650.00 $ (11,956.52) 10044297 Town Hall Rent 0.00 500.00 1,500.00 (1,000.00) 10044297.1 Community Center rents 125.00 575.00 600.00 (25.00)
Total Revenue -Use of Money and Property $ 125.00 $ 5,768.48 $ 18,750.00 $ (12,981.52)
Revenues - Fines 10034283 Court fines $ 0.00 $ 1,070.65 $ 1,500.00 $ (429.35)
Total Revenue - Fines $ 0.00 $ 1,070.65 $ 1,500.00 $ (429.35)
Revenues - Intergovernmental 10054204 Motor vehicle in-lieu tax $ 0.00 $ 77,159.58 $ 133,000.00 $ (55,840.42) 10054222 Home owners prop. tax relief 0.00 871.52 1,200.00 (328.48) 10054286 Street sweeping 0.00 18,735.36 18,000.00 735.36 10054289 RMRA 0.00 16,865.42 25,894.00 (9,028.58) 10054300 Public safety 1/2 cent 0.00 1,138.62 2,000.00 (861.38) 10054310 COPs Program 0.00 140,238.49 145,000.00 (4,761.51) 10054330 COVID-19 Relief Funds 0.00 50,000.00 0.00 50,000.00
Total Revenue - Intergovernmental $ 0.00 $ 305,008.99 $ 325,094.00 $ (20,085.01)
No Assurance is Provided No Disclosures are Provided 1 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 23 ______City of Ferndale Income Statement Fund 10 - General Fund
1 Month Ended 10 Months FY 2020/2021 Ended April 30, 2021 April 30, 2021 Over/(Under) Actual Actual Budget Budget
Revenues - Fees for Service 10084271 Parking fees $ 0.00 $ 24.38 $ 100.00 $ (75.62) 10084287.2 Developer reimbursed fees 0.00 3,499.50 10,000.00 (6,500.50) 10084287.3 Reimbursed Fees Planning 0.00 710.00 20,000.00 (19,290.00) 10084291 Special police services 20.00 4,265.42 2,000.00 2,265.42 10084298 Fair racing revenue 51.70 703.16 1,200.00 (496.84)
Total Revenue - Fees for Service $ 71.70 $ 9,202.46 $ 33,300.00 $ (24,097.54)
Revenues - Other Revenue 10094284 Donations - Library $ 0.00 $ 100.00 $ 100.00 $ 0.00 10094284.1 Donations - City 0.00 5,075.00 0.00 5,075.00 10094307 Miscellaneous 454.69 22,598.33 3,600.00 18,998.33 10094308 PARSAC Grants 0.00 4,000.00 0.00 4,000.00 10094311 Utilities - Little League park 0.00 200.00 200.00 0.00
Total Revenue - Other Revenue $ 454.69 $ 31,973.33 $ 3,900.00 $ 28,073.33
TOTAL REVENUES $ 1,466.13 $ 739,505.38 $ 893,750.10 $ (154,244.72)
No Assurance is Provided No Disclosures are Provided 2 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 24 ______City of Ferndale Income Statement Fund 10 - General Fund
1 Month Ended 10 Months FY 2020/2021 Ended April 30, 2021 April 30, 2021 Over/(Under) Actual Actual Budget Budget
EXPENDITURES
Expenditures - City Council 10115012 Office expense $ 0.00 $ 467.07 $ 100.00 $ 367.07 10115013 Advertising 58.50 2,945.10 600.00 2,345.10 10115044 Meetings and dues 0.00 1,085.00 1,200.00 (115.00) 10115045 LAFCO fees 0.00 645.07 659.20 (14.13)
Total Expenditures - City Council $ 58.50 $ 5,142.24 $ 2,559.20 $ 2,583.04
Expenditures City Manager 10105002 Salary - permanent $ 2,512.46 $ 37,153.86 $ 32,661.92 $ 4,491.94 10105006 SSI tax 191.63 2,991.28 2,609.52 381.76 10105007 Medical insurance 673.61 6,679.25 8,310.85 (1,631.60) 10105009 Workers comp. insurance 498.10 1,992.40 1,894.39 98.01 10105010 Deferred retirement 0.00 2,255.21 2,612.95 (357.74) 10105061 Liability Insurance 435.80 1,743.20 1,567.77 175.43
Total expenditures -City Manager $ 4,311.60 $ 52,815.20 $ 49,657.40 $ 3,157.80
Expenditures - City Clerk 10125002 Salary - permanent $ 5,791.07 $ 66,595.78 $ 74,768.18 $ (8,172.40) 10125006 SSI tax 462.46 5,947.60 6,217.04 (269.44) 10125007 Medical insurance 1,071.65 10,923.06 12,446.18 (1,523.12) 10125009 Workers comp. insurance 1,197.26 4,789.04 4,336.56 452.48 10125010 Deferred retirement 0.00 4,983.51 5,980.72 (997.21) 10125012 Office expense 164.89 3,434.23 3,500.00 (65.77) 10125022 IT support 205.00 2,092.42 800.00 1,292.42 10125044 Meetings and dues 0.00 1,102.62 1,200.00 (97.38) 10125061 Liability Insurance 1,047.52 4,190.08 3,588.87 601.21
Total Expenditures -City Clerk $ 9,939.85 $ 104,058.34 $ 112,837.55 $ (8,779.21)
No Assurance is Provided No Disclosures are Provided 3 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 25 ______City of Ferndale Income Statement Fund 10 - General Fund
1 Month Ended 10 Months FY 2020/2021 Ended April 30, 2021 April 30, 2021 Over/(Under) Actual Actual Budget Budget
Expenditures - City Attorney 10145052 Professional services $ 1,505.00 $ 16,330.50 $ 20,000.00 $ (3,669.50)
Total Expenditures - City Attorney $ 1,505.00 $ 16,330.50 $ 20,000.00 $ (3,669.50)
Expenditures - Government Buildings 10155002 Salary - permanent $ 239.32 $ 2,547.60 $ 2,995.36 $ (447.76) 10155006 SSI tax 33.15 315.38 372.93 (57.55) 10155009 Workers comp. insurance 47.96 191.84 173.73 18.11 10155012 Office expense 0.00 328.11 1,800.00 (1,471.89) 10155020 Building and ground maint. 562.29 7,068.43 6,000.00 1,068.43 10155030 Trash service 35.16 351.60 450.00 (98.40) 10155031 Gas 415.62 6,327.27 4,000.00 2,327.27 10155032 Utilities 199.46 1,834.24 2,000.00 (165.76) 10155033 Water 45.08 4,345.24 4,050.00 295.24 10155034 Telephone/internet 309.12 3,859.60 4,800.00 (940.40) 10155061 Liability Insurance 41.97 167.88 143.78 24.10 10155063 Building and Property Insurance 0.00 3,065.00 3,400.00 (335.00)
Total Expenditures - Government Buildings $ 1,929.13 $ 30,402.19 $ 30,185.80 $ 216.39
Expenditures - Non departmental 10165015 Property tax admin. fees $ 0.00 $ 2,197.50 $ 3,600.00 $ (1,402.50) 10165054 Audit and accounting 0.00 18,470.50 19,875.00 (1,404.50) 10165054.1 Accounting services 0.00 8,805.00 10,700.00 (1,895.00) 10165055 Contractual services 0.00 540.00 720.00 (180.00) 10165078 Copy machine expense 338.32 3,363.11 4,680.00 (1,316.89) 10165099 Miscellaneous 0.00 2,675.60 1,800.00 875.60 10165200 Car allowance 400.00 4,000.00 4,800.00 (800.00)
Total Expenditures - Nondepartmental $ 738.32 $ 40,051.71 $ 46,175.00 $ (6,123.29)
Expenditures - Community Promotion 10175020 Building and ground maint. $ 7.94 $ 51.07 $ 100.00 $ (48.93) 10175028 Public restroom 19.12 516.52 3,000.00 (2,483.48) 10175032 Utilities 24.57 277.95 300.00 (22.05) 10175033 Water 103.33 1,069.82 1,440.00 (370.18) 10175072 Chamber of commerce 8,819.25 35,277.00 35,277.02 (0.02) 10175072.1 Donation - Visitors & Conv. 0.00 1,500.00 1,500.00 0.00 10175072.2 Employee appreciation 0.00 0.00 100.00 (100.00) 10175072.3 TOT 2% HLA QTRLY 0.00 13,572.43 17,850.00 (4,277.57)
Total Expenditures - Community Promotion $ 8,974.21 $ 52,264.79 $ 59,567.02 $ (7,302.23)
No Assurance is Provided No Disclosures are Provided 4 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 26 ______City of Ferndale Income Statement Fund 10 - General Fund
1 Month Ended 10 Months FY 2020/2021 Ended April 30, 2021 April 30, 2021 Over/(Under) Actual Actual Budget Budget
Expenditures - Police 10215002 Salary - permanent $ 15,249.93 $ 217,095.20 $ 250,835.04 $ (33,739.84) 10215004 Salary - reserve 3,275.88 13,154.25 2,086.80 11,067.45 10215005 Salary - overtime 246.10 6,802.24 7,000.00 (197.76) 10215006 SSI tax 1,905.69 21,604.82 21,691.08 (86.26) 10215007 Medical insurance 1,543.45 41,074.96 64,559.76 (23,484.80) 10215009 Workers comp. insurance 4,333.29 17,333.16 15,075.45 2,257.71 10215010 Deferred retirement 0.00 10,679.73 17,313.02 (6,633.29) 10215012 Office expense 316.46 3,467.78 2,400.00 1,067.78 10215014 Vehicle expense 64.64 9,468.19 8,000.00 1,468.19 10215016 Fuel 541.86 8,007.07 11,000.00 (2,992.93) 10215020 Building and ground maint. 109.50 2,355.62 10,000.00 (7,644.38) 10215022 IT support 0.00 44,896.85 1,200.00 43,696.85 10215024 Special department supply 5,603.00 12,728.12 0.00 12,728.12 10215026 Uniform expense 0.00 1,072.14 500.00 572.14 10215026.1 Uniform allowance 0.00 3,000.00 3,000.00 0.00 10215029 Water/sewer 59.52 1,917.78 1,400.00 517.78 10215032 Utilities 189.75 1,488.54 2,000.00 (511.46) 10215034 Telephone/internet 555.24 4,620.09 4,200.00 420.09 10215035 Dispatch service 2,000.00 21,462.99 23,400.00 (1,937.01) 10215044 Meetings and dues 0.00 392.10 600.00 (207.90) 10215048 Training 640.00 1,853.21 2,500.00 (646.79) 10215051 Physical exams 0.00 218.75 900.00 (681.25) 10215052 Professional services 66.00 2,306.00 800.00 1,506.00 10215061 Liability Insurance 3,791.34 15,165.36 12,476.26 2,689.10 10215063 Building and Property Insurance 0.00 855.00 1,100.00 (245.00) 10215078 Copy machine expense 106.46 1,505.03 1,300.00 205.03 10215088 Equipment repair other 158.15 2,320.48 350.00 1,970.48 10215098 Background expense 0.00 1,713.92 800.00 913.92 10215201 Lexipol services 0.00 2,427.00 2,300.00 127.00
Total Expenditures - Police $ 40,756.26 $ 470,986.38 $ 468,787.41 $ 2,198.97
Expenditures - Animal Control 10225096 Animal control $ 450.00 $ 4,500.00 $ 5,400.00 $ (900.00)
Total Expenditures - Animal Control $ 450.00 $ 4,500.00 $ 5,400.00 $ (900.00)
Expenditures - Health 10245052 Professional services $ 668.00 $ 5,363.75 $ 2,400.00 $ 2,963.75
Total Expenditures - Health $ 668.00 $ 5,363.75 $ 2,400.00 $ 2,963.75
No Assurance is Provided No Disclosures are Provided 5 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 27 ______City of Ferndale Income Statement Fund 10 - General Fund
1 Month Ended 10 Months FY 2020/2021 Ended April 30, 2021 April 30, 2021 Over/(Under) Actual Actual Budget Budget
Expenditures - Streets and Roads 10315002 Salary - permanent $ 1,442.88 $ 16,040.02 $ 18,757.44 $ (2,717.42) 10315005 Salary - overtime 0.00 273.30 0.00 273.30 10315006 SSI tax 106.87 1,415.59 1,569.34 (153.75) 10315007 Medical insurance 409.98 4,064.90 5,057.28 (992.38) 10315009 Workers comp. insurance 278.18 1,112.72 5,087.93 (3,975.21) 10315010 Deferred retirement 0.00 1,182.36 1,500.60 (318.24) 10315011 Bldg/property insurance 0.00 457.00 450.00 7.00 10315014 Vehicle expense 950.45 10,218.64 11,406.00 (1,187.36) 10315020 Building and ground maint. 0.00 322.50 4,000.00 (3,677.50) 10315021 Street maintenance 0.00 826.55 8,000.00 (7,173.45) 10315024 Special department supply 0.00 773.88 1,000.00 (226.12) 10315026.1 Uniform allowance 0.00 0.00 300.00 (300.00) 10315034 Telephone/internet 83.05 794.02 930.00 (135.98) 10315055 Contractual services 0.00 20,485.43 550.00 19,935.43 10315061 Liability Insurance 243.39 973.56 900.36 73.20 10315088 Equipment repair other 110.05 110.05 1,400.00 (1,289.95)
Total Expenditures - Streets and Roads $ 3,624.85 $ 59,050.52 $ 60,908.95 $ (1,858.43)
Expenditures - Planning 10415013 Advertising $ 0.00 $ 292.50 $ 0.00 $ 292.50 10415052 Professional services 0.00 17,560.00 26,400.00 (8,840.00) 10415053 Reimbursable Fees 0.00 5,619.25 10,000.00 (4,380.75) 10415055 Contractual services 0.00 1,364.50 14,500.00 (13,135.50) 10415059 Special Planning Projects 0.00 12,231.50 20,000.00 (7,768.50) 10415060 Bocce ball expenses 0.00 (85.00) 0.00 (85.00) 10415061 Liability Insurance 0.00 (95.00) 0.00 (95.00) 10415620 LRSP PROJECTS 0.00 541.25 0.00 541.25 10415630 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN 0.00 641.25 0.00 641.25
Total Expenditures - Planning $ 0.00 $ 38,070.25 $ 70,900.00 $ (32,829.75)
Expenditures - City engineer 10425052 Professional services $ 0.00 $ 6,580.75 $ 60,000.00 $ (53,419.25)
Total Expenditures - City engineer $ 0.00 $ 6,580.75 $ 60,000.00 $ (53,419.25)
Expenditures - Building Regulation 10435024 Special department supply $ 0.00 $ 1,951.20 $ 0.00 $ 1,951.20 10435052 Professional services 439.20 18,642.36 32,400.00 (13,757.64)
Total Expenditures - Building Regulation $ 439.20 $ 20,593.56 $ 32,400.00 $ (11,806.44)
No Assurance is Provided No Disclosures are Provided 6 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 28 ______City of Ferndale Income Statement Fund 10 - General Fund
1 Month Ended 10 Months FY 2020/2021 Ended April 30, 2021 April 30, 2021 Over/(Under) Actual Actual Budget Budget
Expenditures - Library 10615002 Salary - permanent $ 285.12 $ 2,505.44 $ 5,000.00 $ (2,494.56) 10615006 SSI tax 39.50 311.02 622.50 (311.48) 10615009 Workers comp. insurance 80.06 320.24 290.00 30.24 10615012 Office expense 108.39 158.39 0.00 158.39 10615020 Building and ground maint. 0.00 614.66 250.00 364.66 10615024 Special department supply 0.00 1,048.66 2,000.00 (951.34) 10615031 Gas 274.41 3,608.69 2,520.00 1,088.69 10615032 Utilities 123.97 1,174.88 1,800.00 (625.12) 10615033 Water 43.96 421.90 420.00 1.90 10615034 Telephone/internet 148.59 1,414.76 1,680.00 (265.24) 10615061 Liability Insurance 70.05 280.20 240.00 40.20 10615063 Building and Property Insurance 0.00 1,218.00 1,400.00 (182.00) 10615078 Copy machine expense 0.00 0.00 50.00 (50.00)
Total Expenditures - Library $ 1,174.05 $ 13,076.84 $ 16,272.50 $ (3,195.66)
Expenditures - Parks 10625002 Salary - permanent $ 492.44 $ 5,188.84 $ 6,401.50 $ (1,212.66) 10625006 SSI tax 54.52 536.48 676.24 (139.76) 10625007 Medical insurance 61.42 608.90 757.57 (148.67) 10625009 Workers comp. insurance 99.53 398.12 771.29 (373.17) 10625010 Deferred retirement 0.00 186.58 229.24 (42.66) 10625020 Building and ground maint. 105.22 4,447.88 4,000.00 447.88 10625024 Special department supply 171.02 558.26 300.00 258.26 10625032 Utilities 43.84 313.07 600.00 (286.93) 10625033 Water 198.64 1,752.39 1,650.00 102.39 10625061 Liability Insurance 87.09 348.36 307.28 41.08 10625065 Russ Park expenditures 28.00 2,004.30 300.00 1,704.30
Total Expenditures - Parks $ 1,341.72 $ 16,343.18 $ 15,993.12 $ 350.06
Expenditures -Community Center 10635020 Building and ground maint. $ 121.71 $ 121.71 $ 1,500.00 $ (1,378.29) 10635063 Building and Property Insurance 0.00 2,407.00 3,000.00 (593.00)
Total Expenditures -Community center $ 121.71 $ 2,528.71 $ 4,500.00 $ (1,971.29)
TOTAL EXPENDITURES $ 76,032.40 $ 938,158.91 $ 1,058,543.95 $ (120,385.04)
REVENUES OVER (UNDER) EXPENDITURES $ (74,566.27) $ (198,653.53) $ (164,793.85) $ (33,859.68)
No Assurance is Provided No Disclosures are Provided 7 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 29 ______City of Ferndale STATEMENT OF REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES FUND 22 - GAS TAX
1 Month Ended 10 Months Ended FY2020/2021 April 30, 2021 April 30, 2021 Over/(Under) Actual Actual Budget Budget
Revenues 22314210.1 Gas tax (2105) $ 540.55 $ 5,834.36 $ 7,880.00 $ (2,045.64) 22314210.2 Gas tax (2106) 782.22 7,996.69 9,936.00 (1,939.31) 22314210.3 Gas tax (2107) 742.12 7,842.66 9,408.00 (1,565.34) 22314210.4 Gas tax (2107.5) 0.00 1,000.00 1,000.00 0.00 22314210.5 Gas Tax (2103) 584.21 7,833.32 12,154.00 (4,320.68)
Total Revenue 2,649.10 30,507.03 40,378.00 (9,870.97)
EXPENDITURES 22315002 Salary - permanent 1,707.55 18,916.39 20,676.82 (1,760.43) 22315005 Salary - overtime 0.00 292.62 0.00 292.62 22315006 SSI tax 130.55 1,623.25 1,774.10 (150.85) 22315007 Medical insurance 448.83 4,450.30 5,599.67 (1,149.37) 22315009 Workers comp. insurance 312.69 1,250.76 4,543.17 (3,292.41) 22315010 Deferred retirement 0.00 1,428.11 1,654.13 (226.02) 22315055 Contractual services 0.00 5,000.00 0.00 5,000.00 22315057 Street signs 0.00 345.03 500.00 (154.97) 22315058 Street lighting 1,091.61 10,935.94 13,200.00 (2,264.06) 22315061 Liability Insurance 273.59 1,094.36 1,028.84 65.52
TOTAL EXPENDITURES 3,964.82 45,336.76 48,976.73 (3,639.97)
REVENUES OVER (UNDER) $ (1,315.72) $ (14,829.73) $ (8,598.73) $ (6,231.00) EXPENDITURES
No Assurance is Provided No Disclosures are Provided 1 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 30 ______City of Ferndale STATEMENT OF REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES FUND 23 - RSTP
1 Month Ended 10 Months FY2020/2021 Ended April 30, 2021 April 30, 2021 Over/(Under) Actual Actual Budget Budget
Revenues 23314211 RSTP Revenue $ 0.00 $ 11,365.00 $ 9,500.00 $ 1,865.00
Total Revenue 0.00 11,365.00 9,500.00 1,865.00
EXPENDITURES 23315002 Salary - permanent 446.98 5,001.74 5,803.51 (801.77) 23315006 SSI tax 34.16 419.95 477.56 (57.61) 23315007 Medical insurance 113.04 1,120.78 1,430.47 (309.69) 23315009 Workers comp. insurance 88.10 352.40 936.60 (584.20) 23315010 Deferred retirement 0.00 381.38 464.27 (82.89) 23315055 Contractual services 0.00 70,000.00 0.00 70,000.00 23315061 Liability Insurance 77.08 308.32 278.57 29.75
TOTAL EXPENDITURES 759.36 77,584.57 9,390.98 68,193.59
REVENUES OVER (UNDER) EXPENDITURES $ (759.36) $ (66,219.57) $ 109.02 $ (66,328.59)
No Assurance is Provided No Disclosures are Provided 1 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 31 ______City of Ferndale STATEMENT OF REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES FUND 24 - TRANSPORTATION DEVELOPMENT ACT
1 Month Ended 10 Months Ended FY2020/2021 April 30, 2021 April 30, 2021 Over/(Under) Actual Actual Budget Budget
Revenues 24314231 Transportation devel. act $ 0.00 $ 26,000.00 $ 44,641.57 $ (18,641.57)
Total Revenue 0.00 26,000.00 44,641.57 (18,641.57)
EXPENDITURES 24315002 Salary - permanent 1,519.17 16,907.90 21,242.76 (4,334.86) 24315005 Salary - overtime 0.00 180.79 0.00 180.79 24315006 SSI tax 116.20 1,472.69 1,704.90 (232.21) 24315007 Medical insurance 413.48 4,099.40 5,180.52 (1,081.12) 24315009 Workers comp. insurance 316.68 1,266.72 4,488.16 (3,221.44) 24315010 Deferred retirement 0.00 1,270.53 1,699.39 (428.86) 24315014 Vehicle expense 0.00 19.21 250.00 (230.79) 24315016 Fuel 660.36 5,408.59 7,300.00 (1,891.41) 24315020 Building and ground maint. 0.00 0.00 2,000.00 (2,000.00) 24315021 Street maintenance 0.00 148.91 750.00 (601.09) 24315024 Special department supply 0.00 419.08 800.00 (380.92) 24315032 Utilities 370.62 2,607.86 2,600.00 7.86 24315033 Water 45.11 583.73 500.00 83.73 24315034 Telephone/internet 83.06 794.05 940.00 (145.95) 24315055 Contractual services 0.00 71,850.25 0.00 71,850.25 24315061 Liability Insurance 277.07 1,108.28 983.31 124.97 24315088 Equipment repair other 110.04 110.04 550.00 (439.96)
TOTAL EXPENDITURES 3,911.79 108,248.03 50,989.04 57,258.99
REVENUES OVER (UNDER) $ (3,911.79) $ (82,248.03) $ (6,347.47) $ (75,900.56) EXPENDITURES
No Assurance is Provided No Disclosures are Provided 1 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 32 ______City of Ferndale STATEMENT OF REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES FUND 26 - DRAINAGE FUND
1 Month Ended 10 Months Ended FY2020/2021 April 30, 2021 April 30, 2021 Over/(Under) Actual Actual Budget Budget
Revenues 26314230 Drainage fund $ 300.00 $ 550.00 $ 4,500.00 $ (3,950.00) 26314240 Drainage district fees 0.00 11,481.50 19,570.00 (8,088.50)
Total Revenue 300.00 12,031.50 24,070.00 (12,038.50)
EXPENDITURES 26315002 Salary - permanent 1,380.83 15,345.45 17,943.96 (2,598.51) 26315005 Salary - overtime 0.00 237.96 0.00 237.96 26315006 SSI tax 105.60 1,339.87 1,497.03 (157.16) 26315007 Medical insurance 379.64 3,764.05 4,718.72 (954.67) 26315009 Workers comp. insurance 267.73 1,070.92 4,440.75 (3,369.83) 26315010 Deferred retirement 0.00 1,140.70 1,435.51 (294.81) 26315019 Creek maintenance 0.00 0.00 1,500.00 (1,500.00) 26315023 Drain project 0.00 0.00 200.00 (200.00) 26315024 Special department supply 0.00 134.89 750.00 (615.11) 26315061 Liability Insurance 234.24 936.96 861.31 75.65 26315194 Interest expense 1,129.58 11,295.80 13,555.00 (2,259.20)
TOTAL EXPENDITURES 3,497.62 35,266.60 46,902.28 (11,635.68)
REVENUES OVER (UNDER) $ (3,197.62) $ (23,235.10) $ (22,832.28) $ (402.82) EXPENDITURES
No Assurance is Provided No Disclosures are Provided 1 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 33 ______City of Ferndale STATEMENT OF REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES FUND 25 - INTEGRATED WASTE MANAGEMENT
1 Month Ended 10 Months FY2020/2021 April 30, 2021 AprilEnded 30, 2021 Over/(Under) Actual Actual Budget Budget
Revenues 25314288 Tipping fee (int. waste mgt.) $ 0.00 $ 901.04 $ 0.00 $ 901.04 25314600 Recycling grant 0.00 0.00 5,000.00 (5,000.00)
Total Revenue 0.00 901.04 5,000.00 (4,098.96)
EXPENDITURES 25315002 Salary - permanent 380.68 4,187.48 4,948.78 (761.30) 25315006 SSI tax 29.04 332.23 395.38 (63.15) 25315007 Medical insurance 102.06 1,012.05 1,259.22 (247.17) 25315009 Workers comp. insurance 75.47 301.88 287.03 14.85 25315010 Deferred retirement 0.00 341.70 395.90 (54.20) 25315061 Liability Insurance 66.03 264.12 237.54 26.58 25315600 Recycling grant expenditures 12.92 220.27 236.00 (15.73)
TOTAL EXPENDITURES 666.20 6,659.73 7,759.85 (1,100.12)
REVENUES OVER (UNDER) EXPENDITURES $ (666.20) $ (5,758.69) $ (2,759.85) $ (2,998.84)
No Assurance is Provided No Disclosures are Provided 1 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 34 ______City of Ferndale INCOME STATEMENT FUND 30 - SEWER FUND
1 Month Ended 10 Months Ended FY2020/2021 April 30, 2021 April 30, 2021 Over/(Under) Actual Actual Budget Budget
Revenues 30514274 Sewer service charge $ 0.00 $ 459,861.99 $ 721,000.00 $ (261,138.01) 30514275 Sewer connection fees 0.00 0.00 15,000.00 (15,000.00) 30514303 Septic discharge 10,920.00 84,447.25 75,600.00 8,847.25 30514325 State Water Board Grant 0.00 96,759.00 150,000.00 (53,241.00)
Total Revenue 10,920.00 641,068.24 961,600.00 (320,531.76)
EXPENSES 30515002 Salary - permanent 19,597.31 191,671.22 213,719.14 (22,047.92) 30515005 Salary - overtime 280.56 7,457.79 8,574.80 (1,117.01) 30515006 SSI tax 1,673.27 17,691.68 18,460.37 (768.69) 30515007 Medical insurance 3,715.06 36,834.55 46,472.12 (9,637.57) 30515009 Workers comp. insurance 3,560.95 14,243.80 17,893.05 (3,649.25) 30515010 Deferred retirement 0.00 13,806.29 17,003.35 (3,197.06) 30515012 Office expense 66.23 271.90 1,725.00 (1,453.10) 30515014 Vehicle expense 0.00 352.81 750.00 (397.19) 30515016 Fuel 102.58 1,797.43 3,000.00 (1,202.57) 30515021 Street maintenance 209.82 680.47 0.00 680.47 30515024 Special department supply 0.00 492.50 1,000.00 (507.50) 30515030 Trash service 288.02 5,271.38 5,350.00 (78.62) 30515032 Utilities 6,651.88 61,598.49 74,400.00 (12,801.51) 30515033 Water 80.68 1,943.60 1,920.00 23.60 30515034 Telephone/internet 531.79 5,180.94 6,000.00 (819.06) 30515044 Meetings and dues 0.00 643.00 650.00 (7.00) 30515048 Training 0.00 125.00 850.00 (725.00) 30515050 IT Support 0.00 25.00 2,000.00 (1,975.00) 30515055 Contractual services 1,255.05 6,939.90 6,600.00 339.90 30515061 Liability Insurance 3,115.58 12,462.32 10,670.12 1,792.20 30515063 Building and Property Insurance 0.00 1,742.00 2,600.00 (858.00) 30515092 Permits 150.00 9,724.50 13,500.00 (3,775.50) 30515121 Sewer plant maintenance 5,275.15 24,130.23 68,000.00 (43,869.77) 30515122 Sewer line maintenance 0.00 13,146.58 15,000.00 (1,853.42) 30515130 Ultra Violet Lights 0.00 19,186.89 45,000.00 (25,813.11) 30515157 Testing and monitoring 2,235.00 11,037.11 12,000.00 (962.89) 30515160 Postage & Shipping 0.00 607.09 500.00 107.09 30515162 Insurance 0.00 5,000.00 0.00 5,000.00 30515170 State Water Planning Grant Expenses 0.00 115,411.00 150,000.00 (34,589.00) 30515190 USDA loan 0.00 193,749.99 194,000.00 (250.01)
TOTAL EXPENSES 48,788.93 773,225.46 937,637.95 (164,412.49)
NET INCOME (LOSS) $ (37,868.93) $ (132,157.22) $ 23,962.05 $ (156,119.27)
No Assurance is Provided No Disclosures are Provided 1 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 35 ______City of Ferndale Cash Balances
As of April 30, 2021
Cash Balances
Current Assets General Fund $ 513,207.53 Restricted Cash 15,150.00 Gas Tax 2,462.02 RSTF 8,477.67 TDA 201,575.12 IWM 50,525.07 Drainage (8,347.68) Sewer 467,861.08
Total $ 1,250,910.81
Checking $ 595,498.06 LAIF 655,262.75 Petty cash 150.00 Total $ 1,250,910.81
No Assurance is Provided No Disclosures are Provided 1 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 36 ______
Section 10 CALL ITEMS These are items pulled from the consent agenda for discussion and a separate motion.
Section 11 PRESENTATION May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 37 ______
HUMBOLDT REGIONAL
Ferndale City Council Meeting of May 19, 2021 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 38 ______Purpose of Today’s Report •Provide a high‐level introduction to the Humboldt Regional Climate Action Plan •Update City Council on CAP activities to date, current status, and upcoming milestones May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 39 ______Project Goal
A regional Climate Action Plan, adopted by each jurisdiction, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions throughout Humboldt County May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 40 ______
High‐Level Timeline
Measure Public Regional Inventory Creation, First draft hearings, CAP and CEQA Selection, CAP Launch Forecast complete Narrative adoption May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 41 ______CAPS & CEQA The State CEQA Guidelines (Section 15183.5) allow the GHG impacts of future projects to be evaluated using an adopted plan for reduction of GHG emissions, provided CAP meets several requirements:
• GHG inventory and forecast
• GHG reductions target
• Quantified GHG reductions measures
• Implementation and monitoring plan May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 42 ______CAPs & CEQA
“Qualified” CAP Non-Qualified CAP • Projects can “tier” off of CAP’s • No tiering of GHG analysis CEQA document for GHG analysis • No requirement to implement, • Requirement to implement, monitor or update monitor and update May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 43 ______2015 County‐Wide Inventory
Leaked Refrigerants <1%
Transportation Wastewater Treatment 1% 53%
Solid Waste 4%
Livestock 13% Industrial Stationary Sources Combustion 6% Electricity 12% Consumption 11% May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 44 ______2015 County‐Wide Inventory May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 45 ______2015 Emissions by Jurisdiction May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 46 ______State GHG Targets
2020: 1990 levels (AB 32) 2030: 40% below 1990 levels (SB 32) 2045: Statewide carbon neutrality by 2045 (net zero; EO B‐55‐18) May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 47 ______
Recommended Humboldt County Target 40% below 1990 levels by 2030 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 48 ______Land Use Planning Low‐Carbon Transportation
Efficiency of Buildings and Facilities Renewable Energy Generation
Waste Prevention, Reduction, Diversion Carbon Sequestration May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 49 ______Timeline for CAP Drafting and Review
Complete measure selection spreadsheets and participate in Review admin draft CAP and iterative process provide feedback
Publish draft CAP, engage Participate in target selection developers and other meeting stakeholder groups who haven’t participated in public workshops
Monthly meetings with jurisdictions May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 50 ______Timeline for CAP Review & Adoption
Coordinate public Begin CEQA review Jurisdictions lead local workshops to present CAP adoption meetings draft CAP
Review implementation Complete CEQA process and monitoring strategies
• Monthly meetings with jurisdictions May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 51 ______
Thank you! May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 52 ______Greenhouse Gas Forecasts
1600000
1400000
1200000
1000000
800000
600000
400000 2015 2020 2021 2025 2030 2035 2039 Year BAU Emissions Adjusted Forecast: State & Local Action Percent Reduction Targets May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 53 ______Greenhouse Gas Forecasts May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 54 ______
Section 12 PUBLIC HEARING
Section 13 BUSINESS May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 55 ______
Meeting Date: May 19, 2021 Agenda Item Number 13.a Agenda Item Title Consider Appointment of Applicant to Serve on the Planning Commission
Presented By: City Manager Type of Item: X Action Discussion Information Action Required: No Action X Voice Vote Roll Call Vote
RECOMMENDATION:
Consider Appointment of Applicant to Serve on the Planning Commission.
BACKGROUND:
The Planning Commission had a vacancy due to the expiration of a Commissioner term. The vacant seat will have a term from the date appointed by council to March 1, 2025.
The City Clerk advertised the vacancy in the newspaper and posted the notices on two public bulletin boards in Ferndale. The deadline for application submittal was 10:00am on Thursday, April 29, 2021. Only one Letter of Interest was received. Jerry Rocha would like to continue his role as a Planning Commissioner.
At its regular meeting on May 5, 2021, the Planning Commission unanimously recommended the City Council reappoint Jerry Rocha to the Planning Commission.
ATTACHMENTS:
Jerry Rocha Letter to Continue
May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 56 ______May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 57 ______May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 58 ______
Meeting Date: May 19, 2021 Agenda Item Number 13.b Agenda Item Title Approve Resolution 2021-06 Adopting a CEQA Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program for the Ferndale Citywide Sewer Replacement Project Presented By: City Planner Type of Item: x Action Discussion Information Action Required: No Action x Voice Vote Roll Call Vote
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The City received a Small Community Wastewater grant from the California State Water Resources Control Board (State Water Board) for planning and preliminary design of the citywide sewer replacement project to reduce inflow and infiltration and create a more efficient system.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Receive the staff report, conduct public hearing, and adopt Resolution No. 2021-06 Adopting the CEQA Initial/Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program for the Citywide Sewer Replacement Project.
BACKGROUND: The City operates a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) with a peak average daily wet weather design flow of 0.95 million gallons. The collection system that feeds into the WWTP experiences a considerable amount of inflow and infiltration (I/I). Due to the I/I, the inflows to the WWTP exceed the treatment capacity during storm events. The excess influent water is pumped to a retention pond located just north of the WWTP. The City conducted a system wide study to determine which sections of the sewer collection system are contributing the greatest amount of I/I. The City proposes to replace portions of the collection system to reduce I/I based on the study recommendations.
DISCUSSION: Grant funding from the State Water Board was obtained to develop a Preliminary Engineering Report (PER), fiscal sustainability plan, conduct a rate study, compile a construction application, and draft required environmental documentation. The studies have been completed by the project engineer and environmental documentation is underway.
As this project will require approval from state agencies and is funded by a federal program, both California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) cross-cutter documentation is required.
CEQA An Initial Study/ Draft Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND) was prepared and distributed for public review and comment along with a Notice of Intent (NOI) to adopt an IS/MND. The Draft IS/MND included several mitigation measures to ensure the protection of biological resources, cultural resources, and hydrological resources. These are outlined in the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP) included as Appendix A to the IS/MND.
The public comment period was open from March 22, 2021 to April 22, 2021. One comment letter was received from the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). The comments were focused on replacement activities taking place in the Highway 211 right-of-way and included the requirement for an encroachment permit. The comments and responses were included in the Final IS/MND (Attachment B) May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 59 ______
and were determined to not have a substantial impact on the document as prepared. Therefore, it was determined that the Citywide Sewer Replacement will not have a significant effect on the environment with the incorporation of several mitigation measures as outlined in the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP).
The IS/MND will be utilized by responsible agencies for decision making purposes. This includes a coastal development permit exemption request from the California Coastal Commission and a Caltrans encroachment permit.
NEPA As a portion of the funding for the project comes from Clean Water State Revolving Fund managed by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), all grants awarded are required to satisfy NEPA. The CEQA IS/MND will be used along with supplemental documents including a floodplains and wetlands assessment, greenhouse gas emissions analysis, alternatives analysis, preliminary biological assessment, and additional tribal and cultural resource investigations. Much of the federal environmental packaged has been prepared and will be submitted in full when ready.
Next Steps • File CEQA Notice of Determination • Complete federal cross-cutting documents to satisfy NEPA and submit to State Water Board
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment A. Resolution2021-06 Adopting a CEQA Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program for the Ferndale Citywide Sewer Replacement Project
Attachment B. Citywide Sewer Replacement Final IS/MND May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 60 ______
RESOLUTION NO. 2021-06
RESOLUTION ADOPTING A CEQA INITIAL STUDY/ MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM FOR THE FERNDALE CITYWIDE SEWER REPLACEMENT PROJECT
WHEREAS, the City of Ferndale, herein after referred to as “City”, did received grant funding for from the California State Water Resources Control Board though the Clean Water State Revolving Fund program to conduct special studies on the City’s sanitary sewer collection system; and
WHEREAS, the City has determined that high inflow and infiltration throughout the sanitary sewer collection system needs to be mediated in an effort to reduce the amount of influent that reaches the City’s wastewater treatment plant; and
WHEREAS, studies conducted as part of the grant process informed preliminary designs for rehabilitation and replacement of high priority sewer lines throughout the City that will decrease the amount of inflow and infiltration in the collection system; and
WHEREAS, construction activities for replacement of sewer lines thought the City will require discretionary actions by local and state agencies and is therefore subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); and
WHEREAS, the City is acting as Lead Agency under CEQA regulations §21067; and
WHEREAS, an Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaration (SCH# 2021030505) was prepared and circulated for a 30-day public review period and one comment letter was received; and
WHEREAS, comments received were reviewed and responded to as part of the Final IS/MND which is, by this reference, incorporated into this Resolution as if fully set forth herein; and,
NOW, THEREFORE IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED, ORDERED AND FOUND, by the City Council of the City of Ferndale, State of California, as follows: 1. An Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND) that evaluates the Citywide Sewer Replacement project was prepared and circulated for public review and comment and one comment letter was received that was incorporated into the Final IS/MND. 2. The City Council have considered the IS/MND and found that, on the basis of the whole record, there is no substantial evidence that the Citywide Sewer Replacement Project will have a significant effect on the environment. 3. The City Council has considered and approves the Mitigation, Monitoring, and Reporting Program as presented in the Final IS/MND. 4. The IS/MND reflects the City’s independent analysis and judgment. May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 61 ______
5. The custodian and location of the documents and other materials which constitute the record of proceedings upon the decision is based is the City Clerk at Ferndale City Hall, 834 Main Street, Ferndale, CA. PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Ferndale, State of California this 19th day of May, 2021, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: NOES: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:
Attest:
______Don Hindley, Mayor
______Kristene Hall, City Clerk May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 62 ______
INITIAL STUDY AND FINAL MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
CITY OF FERNDALE Citywide Sewer Replacement
SCH# 2021030505
DRAFT May 2021
Lead Agency: City of Ferndale 834 Main St P.O. Box 1095 Ferndale, CA 95536
Prepared by:
May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 63 ______May 2021
Table of Contents
1.0 PROJECT INFORMATION...... 1
1.1 PUBLIC REVIEW PROCESS ...... 6 2.0 STATEMENT OF FINDINGS AND DETERMINATION ...... 9 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS EVALUATION AND CHECKLIST ...... 10 AESTHETICS ...... 11 AGRICULTURE AND FOREST RESOURCES ...... 12 AIR QUALITY ...... 13 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES ...... 15 CULTURAL RESOURCES ...... 18 ENERGY ...... 20 GEOLOGY AND SOILS ...... 21 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS ...... 24 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS ...... 25 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY ...... 28 LAND USE AND PLANNING ...... 31 MINERAL RESOURCES ...... 31 NOISE ...... 32 POPULATION AND HOUSING ...... 34 PUBLIC SERVICES ...... 35 RECREATION ...... 36 TRANSPORTATION ...... 37 TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES ...... 39 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS ...... 40 WILDFIRE ...... 42 MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE...... 43
FIGURES Figure 1 Regional Setting ...... 4 Figure 2 Planned Sewer Line Improvements ...... 5
APPENDICES Appendix A – Mitigation, Monitoring, and Reporting Program
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1.0 Project Information
PROJECT TITLE: City of Ferndale Citywide Sewer Replacement
LEAD AGENCY: City of Ferndale P.O. Box 1095 Ferndale, CA 95536 Phone: (707) 786-4224
CONTACT: Vanessa Blodgett, Contract City Planner Phone: (707) 825-8260 Email: [email protected]
PREPARED BY: Planwest Partners, Inc. 1125 16th Street, Suite 200 Arcata, CA 95521 (707) 825-8260
PROJECT LOCATION: Ferndale, Humboldt County, CA ASSESSOR’S PARCEL NUMBER: Various GENERAL PLAN & ZONING DESIGNATION: Various PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Introduction The City of Ferndale operates a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) and collection system in Ferndale, California (Figure 1). The system is publicly owned and is designed to treat domestic sewage from approximately 571 residential connections and 89 business connections located in the City and some surrounding, unincorporated areas in the vicinity of the City. The WWTP is regulated by the Waste Discharge Requirements and Water Recycling Requirements set forth in the North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board (NCRWQCB) Order No. R1‐2018‐0046 and National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) No. CA0022721 (referred to herein as Order No. R1‐2018‐0046).
The WWTP is designed to treat up to approximately 0.95 million gallons per day (MGD) (peak average daily wet weather design flow). During rain events when the flow exceeds the design capacity, up to 5.0 MGD is sent to an equalization basin for later treatment. The equalization basin is a retention pond used for influent storage during wet weather storm events or during emergencies. This allows the facility to manage flow up to 6.0 MGD.
The collection system experiences a considerable amount of inflow and infiltration (I&I). Due to the I&I, the inflows to the WWTP exceed the treatment capacity during storm events. The excess influent water is pumped to a retention pond located just north of the WWTP. The City conducted a system wide study to determine which sections of the sewer collection system are contributing the greatest amount of I&I. The City proposes to replace portions of the collection system to reduce I&I based on the study recommendations.
Project Overview Sewer lines in the City of Ferndale vary greatly in age, construction, and condition. This has led to an increase of inflow and infiltration in the system that frequently exceeds the capacity of the WWTP. In an
City of Ferndale Sanitary Sewer System 1 Final IS/MND May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 65 ______May 2021
effort to reduce I&I and create a more efficient system, the City is proposing a series of sewer line replacements. These replacements, as shown in Figure 2, will take place in phases as funding becomes available.
Proposed Construction Methods Typical sewer line replacement will involve excavation of the existing pipeline in existing street right of ways and utility easements, installation of new plastic pipeline (PVC, polyethylene, or other plastic material), backfill, and patching of disturbed street areas. When construction is taking place in street ways, traffic control will be necessary to route vehicles around the area of construction as controlled one-way travel. It is not anticipated that construction activities will require full street closures or detours.
Much of the City has a high groundwater table and depending on what time of year construction occurs, groundwater may be present at construction sites. Shoring may be required to prevent the trench from collapsing, and pumping may be required to remove water from the trench. Any groundwater pumped from the trench will be diverted into the collection system downstream of the construction area in order to reduce any potential groundwater contamination.
One of the sections scheduled for replacement is Main Street (State Highway 211) from Van Ness Avenue to Ocean Avenue. This portion of the system dates from the 1920’s and the exact location of the pipeline and connecting laterals is not known. Typically, ground penetrating radar would be used to locate pipelines. However, preliminary investigations with radar technology were inconclusive due to the clay soil in the area. As such, a pipe locator will be used along with potholing in key locations to determine where pipelines exist. A new sewer line will be installed in the same location as the existing system with the old line being removed completely and disposed of. New cleanouts will be installed in sidewalk areas to ensure ease of access to service laterals.
After installation of the new sewer line along Main Street, the street will be repaved. The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) may require the street to be completely replaced as there is an existing cement base under the street asphalt. Complete replacement of the roadway will involve removal and disposal of the existing roadway materials, minor grading, installation of new cement base, and pavement with asphalt. The project will also include construction of new manholes and cleanouts for purposes of maintenance and inspection of newly installed lines. Construction of these features will also take place within existing road right of ways and easements.
Construction activities would occur primarily during the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. although longer work hours may be necessary during sewer tie in events. Limited sewer service interruptions may occur in some locations during construction. The City would provide advanced notice to the adjacent customers of any planned sewer service interruptions, night-time, or weekend construction activity that is necessary. Anticipated construction equipment for project activities include: excavator, loader, backhoe, service trucks, generator, shovels, and misc. hand tools.
Best Management Practices Standard Best Management Practices (BMPs) for construction will be implemented as needed. Standard erosion control BMPs will be employed during and after construction. These BMPs include water conservation practices, paving and grinding operations, storm drain inlet protection, bio-filter bags as found necessary, stabilized construction entrance, solid waste management, and sanitary/septic waste management. All concrete activities will be conducted in a manner to avoid impacts to water quality
City of Ferndale Sanitary Sewer System 2 Final IS/MND May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 66 ______May 2021
including designating fully-contained concrete washout areas at least 100 feet from a receiving water and appropriately dispose of or treat concrete effluent from the construction activities.
Regional Setting The City of Ferndale is located on the north coast of California in Humboldt County at latitude 40.578654 and longitude -124.261656 which is approximately 230 miles north of San Francisco, California and 140 miles southwest of Medford, Oregon. The City is situated on the southern edge of the Eel River flood plain approximately 4 miles from the Pacific Coastline and 15 miles from Eureka, California (Figure 1). Primary access to the City is by CA-211 from Fernbridge along Highway 101 approximately 4 miles to the northeast. Additional access roads include Grizzly Bluff Road to the east, Mattole Road to the south, and Centerville Road to the west. The surrounding area is primarily agricultural exclusive or agricultural grazing land with flat lowlands around the City to the north and hills adjacent to the City in the south.
Local Setting The City of Ferndale was settled in 1852 by a small group of settlers that crossed the Eel River and traveled up Francis Creek to the base of the surrounding hills. The City was officially incorporated on August 23, 1893 and covers approximately one square mile of land. Services provided by the City include wastewater, stormwater drainage, law enforcement, streets and street maintenance, and parks and recreation. This small community has traditionally had an agricultural-based economy that has expanded to also include a very successful tourist economy. Specifically, the main industries in Ferndale are dairy farming, cattle ranching, tourism, lumber and wood products, and service.
The City of Ferndale is known as the “Victorian Village” for its classic Victorian-era architecture and its historic main street. The city is also the location of the Humboldt County Fairgrounds that hosts an annual fair and many other events. The City of Ferndale was designated as a State Historic Landmark (No. 883) in 1975 by the California State Parks Office of Historic Preservation. In addition, Ferndale's Main Street Historic District was established in 1994 by the National Park Service and placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The sanitary sewer system originally consisted of vitrified clay pipe and laterals flowing north towards the treatment facility located along Francis Creek at its confluence with the Salt River; just north of the City boundary. The wastewater treatment facility was expanded in 2011 with a design capacity of 1.0 million gallons per day with a 1:1 dilution ratio at its discharge location in Francis Creek. However, due to the aging pipes and the high level of Infiltration/Inflow in the system, wet weather flows can exceed the capacity of the treatment system and excess wastewater must be temporarily stored in the City’s retention pond located adjacent to the treatment facility. As such, the City is seeking to replace aging sanitary sewer lines in an effort to reduce I&I and improve services for City residents.
Regulatory Setting & Approvals Required City CEQA review and project approval would be required before commencement of project activities. Wastewater collection and treatment systems are overseen by the North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board (NCRWQCB). A Caltrans Encroachment Permit will be required for construction activities along Main Street (Highway 211). Project activities outside the City Boundary may require a Coastal Development Permit (i.e. Improvement Area 1: B1-B2 as shown on Figure 2).
City of Ferndale Sanitary Sewer System 3 Final IS/MND May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 67 ______May 2021
Figure 1. Regional Setting
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Figure 2: Ferndale Planned Sewer Line Improvements
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1.1 Public Review Process
The Draft IS/MND for the project was released for public review and comment per CEQA Guidelines Section 15105(b) beginning on March 22, 2021 and ending on April 22, 2021. The document was circulated to local and State agencies and made available to interested organizations and individuals who may wish to comment on the proposed project.
Additionally, a Tribal Consultation notice was sent to representatives of the Wiyot Tribe and the Bear River Band of Rohnerville Rancheria in accordance with AB 52 and pursuant to Public Resources Code §21080.3.1 on January 5, 2021. Follow up correspondence was conducted to ensure tribes were aware of the project. To date, no responses have been received from either tribe.
One comment letter was received from the California Department of Transportation which is included here for reference along with responses to comments made.
Based on the comments that were received, no changes are proposed to the Draft IS/MND.
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City of Ferndale Sanitary Sewer System 7 Final IS/MND May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 71 ______May 2021
Caltrans Comment – 1
No drawings were provided showing the location of sewer mainlines.
Response: The exact location of some mainlines within Highway 211 (Main Street) is currently unknown. Ground penetrating radar was used to help identify location of the lines but was unsuccessful due to the natural substrate. Alternative methods of locating mainlines will be utilized as part of the project. As information becomes available, details will be provided to Caltrans as part of the encroachment permit process.
Caltrans Comment – 2
Traffic handling plans will be needed for construction zones with Caltrans right-of-way.
Response: Traffic control plans will be prepared for the project and submitted to the Caltrans for work with Highway 211 (Main Street) right-of-way. This has been included as Mitigation Measure TRA-1: Traffic Control Plan.
Caltrans Comment – 3
Any work within Caltrans right-of-way will require an encroachment permit.
Response: The City will obtain an encroachment permit from Caltrans before construction of the project begins.
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2.0 Statement of Findings and Determination
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 Significant Impact” as indicated by the checklist on the following pages. Aesthetics Geology/Soils Population/Housing Agricultural & Forestry Greenhouse Gas Emissions Public Services Resources Hazards & Hazardous Materials Recreation Air Quality Hydrology/Water Quality Tribal Resources Biological Resources Land Use/Planning Transportation Cultural Resources Mineral Resources Utilities/Service Systems Energy Noise Wildfire Mandatory Findings of Significance
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.
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.
I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required.
I find that the proposed 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 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 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.
______March 18, 2021 Signature Date Vanessa Blodgett City of Ferndale, Contract Planner Printed Name For
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3.0 Environmental Impacts Evaluation and Checklist 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 factors as well as general standards (e.g., the project will not expose sensitive receptors to pollutants, based on a 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) Once the lead agency has determined that a particular physical impact may occur, then the checklist answers must indicate whether the impact is potentially significant, less than significant with mitigation, or less than significant. "Potentially Significant Impact" is appropriate if there is substantial evidence that an effect may be significant. If there are one or more "Potentially Significant Impact" entries when the determination is made, an EIR is required. 4) "Negative Declaration: Less Than Significant with 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 "Earlier Analyses," as described in (5) below, 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 an earlier EIR or negative declaration. Section 15063(c)(3)(D). In this case, a brief discussion should identify the following: a) Earlier Analysis Used. Identify and state where they are available for review. b) Impacts Adequately Addressed. Identify which effects from the above checklist were within the scope of and adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and state whether such effects were addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis. c) Mitigation Measures. For effects that are “Less Than Significant with Mitigation Measures Incorporated,” describe the mitigation measures which were incorporated or refined from the earlier document and the extent to which they address site-specific conditions for the project. 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. 7) Supporting Information Sources: A source list should be attached, and other sources used or individuals contacted should be citied in the discussion. 8) This is only a suggested form, and lead agencies are free to use different formats; however, lead agencies should normally address the questions from this checklist that are relevant to a project’s environmental effects in whatever format is selected. 9) The analysis of each issue should identify: a) the significance criteria or threshold used to evaluate each question; and b) the mitigation measure identified, if any, to reduce the impact to less than significance.
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Less Than Potentially Less Than No Significant With AESTHETICS Significant Significant Impact Mitigation Except as provided in Public Resources Code Section 21099, would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a X scenic vista? b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock X outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway? c) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of public views of the site and its surroundings (Public views are those that are experienced from a publicly accessible vantage point)? If the X project is in an urbanized area, would the project conflict with applicable zoning and other regulations governing scenic quality? d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day X or nighttime views in the area?
Setting The City of Ferndale was settled in 1852 and was incorporated as a city in 1893. The City is known for its historic Victorian architecture and several locations, including Main Street, are designated as historical places. The surrounding area is characterized by flat agricultural lands often used for grazing. These lands continue throughout the Eel River Valley creating vast open vistas. To the south of the City is hilly terrain that is characterized by ridge and valley landscapes.
Ferndale’s Design Review Committee oversees development proposals within the City. The utilization of the City’s Zoning Ordinance and the issuance of Design Review Permits ensure that commercial and residential development meet basic design criteria. Design review procedures are intended to promote orderly and harmonious development in the City, including the protection and enhancement of its visual resources.
Discussion a) The City’s topography is generally flat except for small portions adjacent to the hill areas to the south such as those around Firemen’s Park. General vistas from roadways not in the City center are of flat rural lands primarily made up of crop fields and grazing pastures. The Project does not propose any new development or expansion of services that would promote development. Scenic vistas directly adjacent to roadways where construction is taking place may be temporarily impacted but will be returned to their original state once construction is completed. As such, any impacts to scenic vistas from implementation of the Project would be less than significant. b, c) Sanitary sewer replacement throughout the City will take place in existing roadways and rights-of- way. Along historic main street work will be required in sidewalk areas for installation of cleanouts. Construction will be limited to streets and sidewalks and will not impact historic buildings. However, in the event minor alterations are needed to accommodate cleanouts, all construction dealing with historical buildings must take place pursuant to the City’s Adopted California Historical
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Building Code as outlined in the City of Ferndale’s Building Inspector and Construction Code Ordinance. This will ensure that the historic visual character of the City is maintained and that any alterations would be in keeping with the City’s historic aesthetic. Additionally, there are no designated scenic highways in or near the City. As such, it is anticipated that there will be no impacts to scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings and any impacts to the existing visual character will be less than significant.
d) Construction activities will primarily take place during daylight hours. There could be temporary source of light and glare from construction equipment. However, this source of light will be removed after construction activities are completed and the sites restored to their original state. Therefore, any impacts to day or nighttime views would be considered less than significant.
Less Than AGRICULTURE AND FOREST Potentially Less Than No Significant With Significant Significant Impact RESOURCES Mitigation Would the project: a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide X 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 use, or a Williamson Act X contract? c) Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of, forest land (as defined in Public Resources Code section 12220(g), timberland (as defined by PRC section X 4526), or timberland zoned Timberland Production (as defined by Government Code section 51104(g))? d) Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest X use? e) Involve other changes in the existing environment which, due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of X Farmland, to non-agricultural use or conversion of forestland to non-forest use?
Setting Although Humboldt County land is not mapped by the California Department of Conservation Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program, the City is surrounded by and includes lands used and designated for agricultural purposes. The Lower Eel River Basin is an agricultural area where some properties are under Williamson Act contracts and most parcels outside the City boundary are zoned Agriculture-Exclusive. Soils in the basin are generally highly productive agricultural soils. Applicable City and County General Plan policies protect these agricultural lands from conversion to non-agricultural uses. Agricultural
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zoned land also exists within the City boundary. Those areas designated agricultural land have limitations on building pursuant to §15.16 of the City Municipal Code. a, b) Humboldt County is not mapped as part of the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency. Proposed Improvement Area 1 (Figure 2) is located north of the City boundary within an area designated agriculture exclusive; all other improvement areas are within roadways in developed areas of the City. Construction activities in Improvement Area 1 may temporarily impact agricultural use of a portion of the site, however once the new sewer line is installed the site would be returned to pre-project conditions. The proposed project will replace an existing underground sewer line and will not increase system capacity or induce growth. The proposed project will not convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance to a non-agricultural use; it will not conflict with existing zoning or with an existing Williamson Act contract; and it will not involve other changes in the environment which could result in the conversion of existing farmland to a non-agricultural use. Therefore, there will be less than significant to prime agricultural land as defined by the program. c-e) Replacement of sanitary sewer lines will take place within existing roadways and right of ways and will not involve conversion of any agricultural or forest lands. Additionally, there are no timber production zones defined within City limits. The project would not result in loss of forestland. As such, there are no conflicts with the existing zoning, including any timber production zones as defined by Government Code section 51104(g), and no impacts will occur.
Less Than Potentially Less Than No Significant With AIR QUALITY Significant Significant Impact Mitigation Would the project: a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air X quality plan? b) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is non- X attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard? c) Expose sensitive receptors to X substantial pollutant concentrations? d) Result in other emissions (such as those leading to odors) adversely affecting a X substantial number of people?
Setting The City of Ferndale is located in the North Coast Air Basin (NCAB) and is within the North Coast Unified Air Quality Management District (NCUAQMD) which oversees air quality in Humboldt, Trinity, and Del Norte counties. The District is in attainment for all air quality standards except the State’s 24-hour PM10 standard. As of November 2017, Del Norte and Trinity counties were in attainment but Humboldt County was not1.
1 California Air Resources Board, Air Quality Planning and Science Division, Area Designations for State Ambient Air Quality Standards PM10, November 2017.
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Particulate matter (both PM10 and PM2.5) can be inhaled and cause adverse health effects. Particulate matter in the atmosphere results from many kinds of dust- and fume-producing industrial, agricultural and logging operations, combustion, driving on unpaved roads, and atmospheric photochemical reactions. In rural areas, agricultural activities (tilling, disking and field burning) and logging (tree cutting, burning of slash) are the major sources of particulate matter. In urban areas, vehicle and equipment use, demolition activities, and construction activities are the major sources. In both areas, wood-burning stoves and fireplaces are also a major source of particulates and can cause exposure in residential areas, especially during winter when their use is high and meteorological conditions to prevent the dispersion of associated particulates.
The City of Ferndale consists of a commercial core surrounded by residential neighborhoods, farmland, and timberland. Sensitive air receptors include residential uses and schools. The City’s proximity to the coast and its isolation from major populated areas provide for limited air pollutant emissions. Emissions are primarily from fireplaces and road dust. Project related air quality emissions will include short-term construction activities related to grading and other earth moving activities, operation of construction equipment, and travel to and from the project site by workers and equipment. Long-term operational emissions are not expected due to overall system efficiency and I&I improvements.
Discussion a) The California Clean Air Act (CCAA) requires the NCUAQMD to achieve and maintain state ambient air quality standards for PM10 by the earliest practicable date. The NCUAQMD Particulate Matter Attainment Plan (1995) includes a description of the planning area, emissions inventory, general attainment goals, and a list of cost-effective control strategies. The PM10 Attainment Plan establishes goals to reduce PM10 emissions and includes three areas of recommended control strategies to meet these goals. Control strategies include transportation control measures such as encouraging car-pooling and bicycle commuting, removal or repair of vehicles with inefficient emission control systems, and traffic flow improvements that reduce idling and vehicle miles traveled (VMT). Land use control measures encourage mixed use or more dense development. The PM10 Attainment Plan also includes measures that limit residential burning as well as various measures to encourage the installation of EPA-certified woodstoves.
The proposed project involves replacement of aging sewer lines which will require the use of heavy construction equipment. All equipment will be fitted with required components to reduce the amount of particulate matter that is released during operation. In order to further reduce any potential impacts, Mitigation Measure AIR-1 will be implemented for all construction phases of the project. Additionally, use of construction equipment will be temporary and not have a long-term effect. As such, the project would not conflict with or obstruct implementation of the NCUAQMD PM10 Attainment Plan. Therefore, the impact would be less than significant with mitigation.
Mitigation AIR-1: Fugitive Dust Control: Standard BMPs to control dust during construction activities will be utilized. Best management practices may include applying water to disturbed soils a minimum of two times per day, covering haul vehicles, replanting any disturbed vegetated areas as soon as practical, restrict vehicle speeds on unpaved roads, and other measures as determined necessary to limit dust.
b) As mentioned previously, the NCUAQMD is in non-attainment for California's 24-hour PM10 standard, but it does not exceed other federal, state or local air quality standards. In the NCAB, most particulate matter is caused by vehicle emissions, wind generated dust, construction dust, wildfire and human caused wood smoke, and sea salts. The project would generate particulate
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emissions over the duration of construction in the form of dust and vehicle emissions as a result of earthwork, paving, and other construction activities.
The proposed project will require temporary use of heavy construction equipment for removing asphalt, digging up sewer lines, and placing of new lines, and repair of street surfaces upon completion. This has the potential to create a temporary impact to air quality in the direct vicinity of construction areas. However, all construction equipment will be fitted with required CARB emissions controls and operators will follow all current construction BMPs. Therefore, any potential impacts will be temporary and less than significant. c) Portions of the proposed project will take place near sensitive receptors including the Ferndale Elementary School and High School. Previously discussed construction activities may result in temporary increases to air pollutants in the immediate vicinity. However, these increases will be similar to regular road maintenance such as crack repair and/or resurfacing. Additionally, as noted previously, heavy-duty construction equipment is subject to a California Air Resources Board (CARB) Airborne Toxics Control Measure for in-use diesel construction equipment to reduce diesel particulate emissions. As such, the potential impacts from the project will not create a permanent source of pollutants and are not considered to be substantial. Therefore, potential impacts from the Project would be considered less than significant. d) The occurrence and severity of potential odor impacts depend on numerous factors. The nature, frequency, and intensity of the source; wind speed and direction; and the sensitivity of receiving location each contribute to the intensity of the impact. Additionally, offensive odors can be highly subjective and vary from person to person.
The proposed project involves the removal and replacement of sanitary sewer lines. Built up gasses and odors from these lines are generally considered unpleasant and are sought to be avoided. However, during removal of the old lines, there is a potential for odors to be released creating a temporary nuisance in the immediate vicinity of construction activity. However, this nuisance will be temporary and will dissipate once the exposed pipeline is removed from the area.
The project involves replacement of sewer lines throughout the City. However, replacement will not occur at the same time. Lines will be replaced incrementally as funding allows. As such, any temporary release of odors will be within a small area of the City and not affect a substantial portion of the population. Since any release of odors due to the project will be temporary and not affect a substantial portion of the population, any impacts will be considered less than significant.
Less Than Potentially Less Than No Significant With BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Significant Significant Impact Mitigation 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 X status species in local or regional plans,
policies, or regulations, or by the California Depart. of Fish and Wildlife or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
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Less Than Potentially Less Than No Significant With BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Significant Significant Impact Mitigation b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, and regulations X or by the California Depart. of Fish and Wildlife or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? c) Have a substantial adverse effect on state or federally protected wetlands X (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 any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with X 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 X resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, X or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan?
Physical Setting The City of Ferndale is located in the Eel River Valley, however no direct Eel River tributaries flow through the City. Francis Creek flows through the center of the City and is a tributary to the Salt River which flows into the Eel River delta near its entrance to the Pacific Ocean. Riparian and wetland habitats associated with Francis Creek are located along the watercourse in addition to providing potential habitat for special status fish species including coho salmon and steelhead. Other occurrences of sensitive habitat and special status species are limited within City boundaries due to existing urban development and disturbed lands from agricultural practices.
The sewer replacement is focused on areas within the City limits and seeks to provide improved infrastructure in areas that are already impacted by development or other human activities. Proposed Improvement Area 1 (Figure 2) is located north of the City boundary within an area designated agriculture exclusive; all other improvement areas are within roadways in developed areas of the City. Due to the limited potential for the occurrence of special status species and existing development, impacts to biological resources are expected to be limited.
Regulatory Setting The federal Endangered Species Act ((ESA); 7 USC §136, 16 USC §1531 et seq.) protects the fish and wildlife species and their habitats that the USFWS or NMFS has identified as threatened or endangered.
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The USFWS has jurisdiction over plants, wildlife, and most freshwater fish, and NMFS has jurisdiction over anadromous fish, marine fish, and mammals, and these two agencies administer the ESA. Under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA), CDFW has the responsibility for maintaining a list of threatened and endangered species (California Fish and Game Code Section 2070). CDFW also maintains a list of “candidate species,” which are species formally noticed as being under review for addition to either the list of endangered species or the list of threatened species.
Discussion a,b) The sewer line replacement does not encourage the development of projects in sensitive habitat areas nor will it increase capacity of the overall system. Additionally, work will take place in existing roadways and easements in areas that are heavily disturbed. Proposed Improvement Area 1 (Figure 2) is located north of the City boundary within an agricultural field; all other improvement areas are within roadways in developed areas of the City. As such, construction will not have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species. Potential impacts due to sewer line replacement would be limited and temporary.
No construction will take place in riparian areas or other sensitive natural communities. Construction areas that are near riparian areas, such as Francis Creek, will adhere to all current construction BMPs to ensure that there is no unintentional water runoff into sensitive areas or other habitat disturbance. In addition, construction activities will be temporary and all areas will returned to pre-project conditions. Therefore, potential impacts to species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species, or riparian habitats, will be less than significant. c) Proposed Improvement Area 1 (Figure 2) is located north of the City boundary within an agricultural field; all other improvement areas are within roadways in developed areas of the City. Construction activities in Improvement Area 1 may temporarily impact an actively used agricultural field that is seasonally wet and may be considered a coastal act wetland. Since construction activities in this area would take place during the dry season (typically April-October), potential impacts due to sewer line replacement would be limited and temporary. Construction trenching within this area will be filled with in-situ soil and re-planted with native vegetation; once the new sewer line is installed the site would be returned to pre-project conditions.
Construction activities will adhere to all current construction BMPs to ensure that there is no unintentional water runoff into sensitive areas or other habitat disturbance. In addition, because temporary construction activities in Improvement Area 1 will take place during the dry season and the site would be returned to pre-project conditions, potential impacts will be temporary. As such, potential impacts to state or federally protected wetlands, will be less than significant with mitigation.
Mitigation BIO-1: Improvement Area 1 Construction: Improvement Area 1 construction activities will take place during the dry season (typically April-October) and will be re-planted with native vegetation; once the new sewer line is installed the site will be returned to pre-project conditions. d) The sewer line replacement does not propose or encourage development on any habitat areas that would impede movement of species. As such, there will be no impact to the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or to established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites.
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e) The sewer line replacement project maintains consistency with City regulations and ordinances. As such, there will be no conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources. f) The sewer line replacement project was developed in compliance with other local and regional planning documents. It proposes the replacement of sewer lines within the City limits in areas already largely disturbed by urbanization and agricultural use and not subject to conservation. Additionally, there is no Habitat Conservation Plan or Natural Community Conservation Plan for the City. As such, there will be no conflicts with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan.
Less Than Potentially Less Than No Significant With CULTURAL RESOURCES Significant Significant Impact Mitigation Would the project: a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource X pursuant to §15064.5? b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological X resource pursuant to §15064.5? c) Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of dedicated X cemeteries?
Setting The City of Ferndale was settled by people of European descent in 1852 by the Shaw brothers and companion Willard Allen2. Since before that time the area has been home to the Wiyot tribe of Native Americans. The Wiyots have a long history in the areas around Humboldt Bay from the Eel River floodplain north to the Little River and east to the redwood belt. The Wiyots maintained a strong presence along the tributaries to Humboldt Bay. They fished the rivers and the ocean and collected shellfish in abundance3.
Ferndale was settled as an agricultural area and remains so to present day. In 1893 the City of Ferndale was officially incorporated and began providing services to the residents in the area. Early residents of the City included a wide range of European and Asian immigrants who pursued a variety of agricultural and infrastructure related interests. Dairy farming and creameries were brought to the area by the Danes in the 1870’s4. The City is noted for the many Victorian style houses that were built in the early 1900’s and its historic Main Street. The City seeks to maintain the historic nature of the area and in 2012 prepared a Historical and Cultural Resources Element of the General Plan.
The following Ferndale General Plan policies are intended to reduce or avoid impacts to historic resources:
2 US Department of Interior, Heritage Conservation and Recreation Service, National Register of Historic Places Inventory – Nomination Form, September 1983. 3 Loud, Llewellyn, Ethnogeography and Archaeology of the Wiyot Territory, 1918. 4 City of Ferndale, Historical and Cultural Resources Element, May 2012, pg. 2-2.
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2520.3) Rehabilitation of existing structure should be encouraged so as to preserve the City’s Victorian character and to increase housing options where the zoning is appropriate.
2540.4) Any alteration of buildings or new construction in the Central Business District should be in keeping with the existing Victorian architecture and historic features.
2560.6) Design control should be maintained for the portion of the City with Victorian structures and Main Street.
In addition to the General Plan policies above, the Ferndale Zoning Ordinance includes design review procedures applicable to all structures within the Design Control Combining (D) zone. These procedures were established to ensure that new buildings and structures and/or the modification, alteration, and/or enlargement of existing buildings or structures occur in a manner consistent with General Plan policies (Zoning Ordinance Section 6.05). Project work will take place within public rights-of-way and will replace existing underground infrastructure.
Discussion a) The project involves replacement of existing sewer lines in streets and right of ways through excavation, minor grading, and patching of disturbed street areas. The project includes the installation of new underground sewer lines within Main Street and new laterals to existing historic buildings along Main Street. The new sewer lines and laterals will be underground and will not result in changes to historic resources. Therefore, the project would not cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource, a less than significant impact will occur. b) Previously unrecorded archaeological resources could exist and be unearthed during excavation and grading. Discovery of archaeological resources can occur even in already disturbed areas. The proposed project would be compliant with all General Plan and Municipal Code policies and programs which provide guidelines for any discovery on previously unknown artifacts. Additionally, Mitigation Measure CUL-1 will be implemented for all project phases. Therefore, it is anticipated that potential impacts to historical/archeological resources within the project area will be less than significant with mitigation.
Mitigation CUL-1: Inadvertent Discovery of Archaeological Material. If cultural materials (e.g. chipped or ground stone, historic debris, building foundations, bone) are discovered during ground- disturbance activities, work shall be stopped within 20 meters (66 feet) of the discovery, per the requirements of CEQA. Work near the archaeological finds shall not resume until a professional archaeologist, who meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines, has evaluated the materials and offered recommendations for further action. c) In the event that human remains are discovered during development of any site, the project proponent would be required to comply with the State Health and Safety Code 7050.5, which prohibits further disturbance until the County Coroner has made a determination of the origin and disposition pursuant to PRC Section 5097.98. The County Coroner must be notified immediately of the find. If the remains are determined to be prehistoric, the coroner is required to notify the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), which will determine and identify a Most Likely Descendant (MLD). With the permission of the owner of the land or his/her authorized representative, the descendant may inspect the site of the discovery. The descendant shall complete the inspection within 24 hours of notification of the NAHC. The MLD may recommend
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scientific removal and nondestructive analysis of human remains and items associated with Native American burials.
Mandatory compliance with the State Health and Safety Code is required in the course of excavation for any project undertaken as part of the sanitary sewer replacement program. Additionally, Mitigation Measure CUL-2 will be implemented for all phases of the project. As such, any impacts to human remains would be considered less than significant with mitigation.
Mitigation CUL-2: Inadvertent Discovery of Human Remains. If human remains are discovered during project construction, work will stop at the discovery location, within 20 meters (66 feet), and any nearby area reasonably suspected to overlie or be adjacent to human remains (Public Resources Code, Section 7050.5). The Humboldt County coroner will be contacted to determine if the cause of death must be investigated. If the coroner determines that the remains are of Native American origin, it is necessary to comply with state laws relating to the disposition of Native American burials, which fall within the jurisdiction of the NAHC (Public Resources Code, Section 5097). The coroner will contact the NAHC. The descendants or most likely descendants of the deceased will be contacted, and work will not resume until they have made a recommendation to the landowner or the person responsible for the excavation work for means of treatment and disposition, with appropriate dignity, of the human remains and any associated grave goods, as provided in Public Resources Code, Section 5097.98.
Less Than Potentially Less Than No Significant With ENERGY Significant Significant Impact Mitigation Would the project: a) Result in potentially significant environmental impact due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary X consumption of energy resources, during project construction or operation? b) Conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for renewable energy or energy X efficiency?
Setting Humboldt County is geographically isolated and is almost an energy island. The majority of petroleum- based transportation fuels are imported to the county by barge. There is only one pipeline connecting the county to the larger natural gas grid, and only two major connections to the larger electric grid. The electric transmission capacity (approximately 60-70 MW) that connects Humboldt County to the regional grid is less than half of the County’s 170 MW peak electrical demand. For this reason, Humboldt County generates much of its own electricity, mostly using natural gas and biomass fuels5.
The Energy Element of the Humboldt County General Plan lists several policies for conserving and reducing energy usage throughout the County. Included in these is the following:
5 Redwood Coast Energy Authority (RCEA), Schatz Energy Research Center, RePower Humboldt: A Strategic Plan for Renewable Energy Security and Prosperity, 2013.
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E-G2. Increase Energy Efficiency and Conservation. Decrease energy consumption through increased energy conservation and efficiency in building, transportation, business, industry, government, water and waste management.
Discussion a,b) The proposed project is being undertaken in order to reduce the amount of I&I throughout the City’s existing sewer system. By decreasing the amount of I&I throughout the system, less influent will need to be processed by the City’s WWTF which will help decrease the facility’s current energy usage.
Construction of the project will require use of diesel fuels in heavy-duty equipment. Operators will adhere to current construction BMPs and reduce the use of fuels as much as possible. Operation of the project will not require the use of any additional energy usage beyond what is already utilized for operation of the City’s sanitary sewer system. No increases in the capacity of the system are proposed and implementation of the project will likely decrease energy usage overall.
The project will increase the overall efficiency of the sanitary sewer system which is consistent with the Humboldt County Energy Element Policy E-G2 which calls for the increased efficiency in water and waste management. Based on the temporary impacts of construction and the overall reduced energy usage resulting from the project, there will be no impact.
Less Than Potentially Less Than No Significant With GEOLOGY AND SOILS Significant Significant Impact Mitigation Would the project: a) Directly or indirectly cause potential substantial adverse effects, including
the risk of loss, injury, or death involving: 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 X 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, X including liquefaction? iv) Landslides? X b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the X loss of topsoil? 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 onsite or offsite X
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Less Than Potentially Less Than No Significant With GEOLOGY AND SOILS Significant Significant Impact Mitigation landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse? d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1-B of the Uniform Building
Code (1994), creating substantial direct X or indirect risks to life or property? e) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems X where sewers are not available for the disposal of wastewater? f) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or X unique geologic feature?
Setting Northwest California and the Humboldt Bay region are located in a seismically active region dominated by a series of faults including the Little Salmon fault and the Mad River fault zone. These faults are active and capable of generating large magnitude earthquakes. The activity in the region can be attributed to the collision of three different tectonic plates, the larger Pacific and North American plates, and the smaller Gorda plate that is subducting under the North American. One known fault, the Ferndale fault, runs along the base of hills though the City. This fault is characterized as undifferentiated Quaternary in a moderately constrained location.
The Coast Range Province is characterized by subparallel northwest trending faults. The Little Salmon and Yager Faults lie approximately six miles to the northeast of the City, the Goose Lake Fault Zone lies approximately thirteen miles to the southeast, and the Russ Fault lies approximately thirteen miles to the south-southwest. Of these faults, the State of California Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act considers only the Little Salmon Fault active; none of this fault is located within the City.
The Eel River is the third largest river system in California, with a 3,680-square-mile watershed that includes portions of Trinity, Mendocino, Humboldt, Glenn, and Lake Counties. The watershed’s dominant geologic formation is the Franciscan Formation, which is prone to landslides and is highly erodible, particularly on steep slopes. Thus, this area is underlain by alluvial deposits consisting of fine- grained fluvial and flood deposits composed of interbedded silts, clays, and fine sands derived from nearby watercourses (Salt River, Francis Creek, and Eel River). These deposits are young and as such are generally poorly consolidated and susceptible to liquefaction during strong ground shaking.
The geology of the City is primarily classified as Q – Marine and Nonmarine (continental) Sedimentary rocks which is described as alluvium, lake, playa, and terrace deposits. A small portion of the City in the hill areas to the south is classified as Qoa – Marine and Nonmarine (continental) Sedimentary rocks which is described as older alluvium, lake, playa, and terrace deposits6. Soils in the area are primarily Weott (0 to 2 percent slopes) with some Loleta (2 to 5 percent slopes), Fiedler-Petellen-Nanningcreek
6 California Department of Conservation, Geologic Map of California, 2010. Accessed August 1, 2019 from http://maps.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/gmc/.
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complex (30 to 50 percent slopes), and Swainslough (0 to 2 percent slopes)7. Various other soils exist in the area in minimal amounts.
Discussion a.i-iv) A number of known active faults traverse the region surrounding the City, and earthquake and ground shaking in the region are unavoidable. The nearest active fault is the Little Salmon Fault, located approximately 6 miles northeast of the City. The Ferndale fault is located within the City limits but is not known to be active. In addition, the City is within 25 miles of the Cascadian Subduction Zone, where the oceanic crust of the Gorda and Juan de Fuca plates are being subducted beneath the continental crust of the North American Plate8.
Landslides due to seismic shaking are unlikely in the project area due to the flat nature of the City. Some portions of the City along the hillsides may be more susceptible. However, these areas are primarily Public Facility and Agricultural Exclusive lands and are not identified for sewer replacement at this time. The City’s sewer main currently terminates on Cleveland Street near Fireman’s Park along the gradually sloped Francis Creek ravine.
The City of Ferndale is situated on alluvial plains which may be susceptible to liquefaction9. However, all construction will be built according to seismic requirements set forth in the California Building Code Title 24 which would decrease the potential for impacts.
Therefore, as addressed above, a less than significant impact would occur with regards to exposing people or structures to potential substantial adverse effect involving: the rupture of a known earthquake fault as delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map; strong-seismic ground shaking; and seismic related ground failure including liquefaction and landslides. b) Construction associated with the project will be conducted entirely within existing roadways and utility easements for the City. The majority of construction will take place in roadways that are already devoid of topsoil. In areas not within roadways, applicable erosion control measures and Best Management Practices such as re-vegetation and covering soil stockpiles will be utilized. Implementing these measures would avoid substantial erosion or topsoil loss resulting in a less than significant impact. c,d) The project will take place entirely within already disturbed areas that are primarily within roadways. The project will not involve grading that could cause soil to become unstable. By adhering to the standards of the California Building Code any impacts would be considered less than significant. e) Sewer service is provided throughout the City of Ferndale. As such, there will be no impact in which there are soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of wastewater.
7 USDA, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Web Soil Survey. Accessed August 1, 2019 from https://websoilsurvey.sc.egov.usda.gov/App/WebSoilSurvey.aspx. 8 USGS, US Quaternary Faults. Accessed August 1, 2019 from https://usgs.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=5a6038b3a1684561a9b0aadf88412fcf. 9 Humboldt County Planning Department, Liquefaction Hazard Zones: Humboldt County, California, 2015.
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f) The project involves excavation of sewer lines in historic portions of the City. While the area has been previously disturbed, there is potential for unearthing of previously unknown paleontological resources. As discussed under cultural resources, the proposed project would be compliant with all General Plan and Municipal Code policies and programs which provide guidelines for any discovery of previously unknown artifacts. Additionally, there are no unique geologic features in the area that may be disturbed by the project. As such, any impacts to unique paleontological resource or site, or unique geologic features, will be less than significant.
Less Than GREENHOUSE GAS Potentially Less Than No Significant With Significant Significant Impact EMISSIONS Mitigation Would the project: a) Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may X have a significant impact on the environment? b) Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of X reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases?
Setting Global temperatures are affected by naturally occurring and anthropogenic-generated atmospheric gases such as water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide. Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere are called greenhouse gases (GHGs). Emissions of GHGs from human activities such as electricity production, motor vehicle use, and agriculture, are elevating the concentration of GHGs in the atmosphere and are reported to have led to a trend of unnatural warming of the earth’s climate, known as global warming or global climate change, and should be lessened and/or mitigated whenever possible. Other than water vapor, the primary GHGs contributing to global climate change include the following gases:
• Carbon dioxide (CO2), primarily a byproduct of fuel combustion; • Nitrous oxide (N2O), a byproduct of fuel combustion and also associated with agricultural operations such as the fertilization of crops; • Methane (CH4), commonly created by off-gassing from agricultural practices (e.g., livestock), wastewater treatment, and landfill operations; • Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which were used as refrigerants, propellants, and cleaning solvents, although their production has been mostly prohibited by international treaty; • Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are now widely used as a substitute for chlorofluorocarbons in refrigeration and cooling; and • Perfluorocarbons (PFCs) and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) emissions, which are commonly created by industries such as aluminum production and semiconductor manufacturing.
In 2002, the California legislature declared that global climate change was a matter of increasing concern for the state’s public health and environment, and enacted laws requiring the state Air Resources Board (ARB) to control GHG emissions from motor vehicles (Health & Safety Code §32018.5 et seq.). CEQA Guidelines define greenhouse gases to include carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrous oxide (N2O), hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorcarbons, and sulfur hexafluoride. The California Global Warming Solutions
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Act of 2006 (Assembly Bill 32) definitively established the state’s climate change policy and set GHG reduction targets (Health & Safety Code §38500 et seq.).
In 2011, the CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.4 Appendix G was modified to include thresholds of significance for Greenhouse Gases. The project would have potential significant impacts if the project would: generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the environment; or conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases.
Discussion a) The proposed project will require the use of heavy-duty equipment for construction. This equipment will create a temporary increase in GHG emissions. However, any and all equipment used for construction is required to adhere to current CARB regulations and current construction BMPs in order to reduce GHG emissions. Operational GHG emissions will remain the same or be reduced due to the reduction in influent that needs to be treated at the WWTF. Therefore, any impacts on GHG levels as a result of the project will be less than significant. b) The California Climate Solutions Act of 2006 (AB 32) requires that statewide GHG emissions be reduced to 2000 levels by the year 2010, 1990 levels by the year 2020, and to 80 percent less than 1990 levels by year 2050. These reductions are to be accomplished through an enforceable statewide cap on GHG emissions that were phased starting in 2012. By adhering to current construction BMPs and CARB regulations the proposed project will not conflict with any existing policies or plans regarding the reduction of GHG emissions. Therefore, any impacts associated with the project to be less than significant.
Less Than HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS Potentially Less Than No Significant With Significant Significant Impact MATERIALS Mitigation Would the project: a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine X transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials? b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident X 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 X 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 X it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment?
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Less Than HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS Potentially Less Than No Significant With Significant Significant Impact MATERIALS Mitigation 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, X would the project result in a safety hazard or excessive noise for people residing or working in the project area? f) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted or emergency X evacuation plan? g) Expose people or structures, either directly or indirectly, to a significant risk X of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires?
Setting Humboldt County is the primary agency responsible for emergency response and evacuation planning in the County. Local agencies, such as the City of Ferndale, are required to coordinate emergency planning with the Humboldt County Office of Emergency Services (HCOES). The Humboldt County Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) and Local Area Hazard Mitigation Plan (LAHMP) serve to address planned response to extraordinary emergency situations associated with natural disasters, technological incidents, and national security emergencies in or affecting Humboldt County. These plans establish the organization, responsibilities, and procedures to adequately respond to natural and man-made emergencies. According to the State Water Resources Control Board GeoTracker website there are five open Leaking Underground Tank (LUST) cleanup sites located in Ferndale. These sites are monitored regularly by the County of Humboldt. There are approximately 30 closed cleanup sites within the City.
Discussion a,b) The Citywide sewer line replacement project will involve excavation of the existing pipeline in existing street right of ways and utility easements, installation of new PVC pipeline, backfill, and patching of disturbed street areas. Materials used on site during construction activities would be properly stored and secured to prevent access by the general public. Temporary use of asphalt and other materials typical of construction activities would occur. However, the types and quantities of hazardous materials to be used are not expected to pose a significant risk to the public and/or environment and would be managed in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations. Since the transport, use, and storage of any limited hazardous materials at the site would be required to be conducted in accordance with all federal, state, and local regulations, a less than significant impact would occur.
The project would not transport, or dispose of hazardous materials, and thus would not create a significant hazard to the public or the environment associated with these materials by creating accident conditions or through routine transport of hazardous materials. This project is not expected to require the use, transportation, disposal, or storage of dangerous quantities of hazardous materials. Materials will be used to patch disturbed street areas; however, it will be temporary and limited to the hours of 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. during weekdays and 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends in accordance with the City of Ferndale Noise Ordinance.
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The proposed project would not conflict with any hazardous materials regulations and would not be exempt from the City’s programs to control and safely dispose of hazardous materials and wastes. It is not expected that there will be any spills, however, in the event there is a spill, it will be immediately contained and cleaned up using absorbent materials and/or soil removal and disposal. All spills will be reported to the Humboldt County Department of Environmental Health and Human Services and/or the State Office of Emergency Services. All contaminated soil will then be removed and disposed at the local hazardous waste facility in Eureka. Therefore, any impacts associated with the implementation of the Citywide sewer line replacement project are considered to be less than significant. c) The project would not emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing school. Temporary use of asphalt and other materials typical of construction activities would occur in construction areas including areas adjacent to Ferndale High School. However, used of potentially hazardous materials would be contained to the immediate construction area and any and all spills would be contained immediately to prevent potential exposure. Construction work may take place on the elementary school grounds, but will be performed during the summer when students are not present. The proposed project would not conflict with any hazardous materials regulations and would not be exempt from the City’s programs to control and safely dispose of hazardous materials and wastes according to the City’s Sewer Ordinance 03-05. As such, a less than significant impact would occur. d) The project would take place in already disturbed sites which are not hazardous sites as determined by Government Code Section 65962.5. As such, there would be no impacts that would create a significant hazard to the public or the environment. e) There are no airports within two miles of the City of Ferndale. As such, there will be no impacts that would result in a safety hazard or excessive noise for people residing or working in the project area. f) The City of Ferndale is a participant in the Humboldt Local Hazard Mitigation Plan which was updated in 2019. This plan meets the requirements of the Disaster Mitigation Act and takes a proactive approach to planning for disaster situations. The associated maintenance as a result of the sewer line replacement project is not anticipated to interfere with current emergency response plans including the LHMP because the project will be completed in phases as funding allows ensuring accessibility by main evacuation routes. Therefore, any impacts associated with implementation of the project are considered to be less than significant. g) The project seeks to replace sewer lines with the majority in City limits and a small portion outside of City limits which are currently served by the Ferndale Volunteer Fire Department. Construction will take place along already disturbed street right of ways and utility easements located in urbanized areas with low fire risks. As such, there are no impacts that would expose people or structures, either directly or indirectly, to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires.
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Less Than HYDROLOGY AND WATER Potentially Significant Less Than No QUALITY Significant With Significant Impact Mitigation Would the project: a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements or otherwise X substantially degrade surface or ground water quality? b) Substantially decrease groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that the project may impede X sustainable groundwater management of the basin? c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through
the alteration of a stream or river or through the addition of impervious surfaces, in a manner which would: (i) result in substantial erosion or siltation X on or offsite; (ii) substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner X which would result in flooding on- or offsite; (iii) create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems X or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff; or d) In flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche zones, risk release of pollutants due to project X inundation? e) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of a water quality control plan or sustainable X groundwater management plan?
Setting The Eureka area, including the City of Ferndale, sees a normal annual precipitation of 40.33 inches10 and benefits from the marine cloud layer that covers the area on an almost daily basis. Major hydrological features in and around the City include the Eel River approximately 3 miles north and 5.5 miles east of the City center, and the Pacific Ocean approximately 4 miles to the west. The City of Ferndale is within the lower Eel River Watershed. The Eel River watershed has a total drainage area of approximately 3,680 square miles and extends from the headwaters in the mountains to the east, to the mouth of the river at the Pacific Ocean. Ferndale is located approximately 4 miles southeast of the Eel River mouth. Francis Creek is a tributary to the Salt River, which discharges into the Eel River slough at the river mouth. Francis Creek is a perennial stream with a small watershed, and stream flow quickly subsides after moderate rain events. Flooding events occur periodically during large storm events.
10 National Weather Service Forecast Office – Eureka, CA, Climatological Report (Annual), January 1, 2019.
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Much of the City is flat in nature with a less than 5% grade. The City maintains a stormwater system separated into east and west drainage basins by Francis Creek. Stormwater from the City eventually flows into the Salt River to the north11. Surface water flows generally follow natural waterways but have also been altered by constructed features (e.g. drainage channels, detention basins) including the City’s stormwater system. Federal, State, County and City regulations, plans, and permits are in place to control and minimize pollutants in stormwater runoff and treated wastewater discharges, including but not limited to the federal Clean Water Act, State Quality Control Plan for the North Coast Basin (Basin Plan) State Water Resources Control Board NPDES Permit and Waste Discharge requirements for WWTF discharge, State TMDLs for the Eel River, Ferndale Drainage Master Plan (2004), and Floodplain Management Ordinance 08-02. These regulations, plans, and permits have been designed to avoid significant water quality impacts associated with development. In addition, new discretionary residential projects would be subject to project-level environmental review and mitigation under CEQA.
The Eel River basin is the largest source of groundwater in the greater Eureka area. Groundwater is tapped in the lower eight miles of the Eel River Valley for agricultural, industrial, and domestic use. River terrace deposits are important sources of groundwater. The river terrace deposits consisting of recent alluvium are important aquifers where they are lower than the Eel River, are hydraulically connected to the river, and are recharged by high water events. Recharge of groundwater to the lowest terrace deposits and recent alluvial deposits is by underflow from the Eel River and infiltration by rainwater. Recharge of these units can occur rapidly during periods of heavy precipitation or flooding.
The Eel River groundwater basin has a surface area of approximately 115 square miles12. There are approximately 12 municipal or agricultural wells and 219 domestic wells obtaining water from the basin with well yields of less than 1,200 gallons per minute13. The average demand estimate for the City is approximately 208,000 gallons per day which is 40% of the source capacity of 518,000 gallons per day14.
Discussion a) The City of Ferndale is subject to the North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board regulations including water quality objectives as listed in Chapter 3 or the North Coast Basin Plan15. Additionally, the Wastewater Treatment Facility is subject to Waste Discharge Requirements (WDRs) under NPDES No. CA0022721 for water recycling. These WDRs set limitations on the effluent that is discharged from the facility at two separate points16. Increased water flows from I&I in the sewer system can have a negative effect on the treatment facility by overwhelming the system and increasing the amount of total suspended solids and other water quality factors that must be treated before discharge. This is most noticeable during storm events when I&I is highest. The proposed project would decrease the amount of I&I in the system and allow to treatment facility to function at a regular capacity year round including during storm events.
Construction of the project will take place entirely within existing roadways and utility easements. Construction activities may create conditions for potential runoff. To help prevent any runoff from
11 Humboldt LAFCo, City of Ferndale Municipal Service Review, November 2018, pg. 23. 12 California Department of Water Resources, Groundwater Bulletin 118, North Coast Hydrologic Region – Eel River Valley Groundwater Basin, updated February 2004. 13 Humboldt County General Plan Update, Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report, Chapter 3.10 – Hydrology and Water Quality, April 19, 2017. 14 Humboldt LAFCo, op. cit., pg. 20. 15 North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board, Water Quality Control Plan for the North Coast Region, Chapter 3: Water Quality Objectives, June 2018. 16 NCRWQCB, Order No. R1-2018-0046, Waste Discharge Requirements and Water Recycling Requirements for the City of Ferndale Wastewater Treatment Plant, Humboldt County. November 14, 2018.
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work sites that may degrade surface or groundwater quality, contractors will adhere to current construction BMPs which may include but is not limited to the use of swales to prevent runoff from the area. Additionally, spill response will be handled according to Mitigation Measure HYD-1.
Due to the high groundwater table in many parts of the city, groundwater may be encountered during trenching. Should groundwater be encountered, the trench will be shored, and water will be pumped out of the active construction area and into the collection system downstream of the site. This will prevent any contamination of groundwater at or near the construction site. With the implementation of construction best practices and mitigation measures, any impacts due to implementation of the project related to water quality standards, waste discharge requirements, or surface and ground water quality, would be less than significant with mitigation.
Mitigation HYD-1 Spill Response: Spill response materials will be made available on site during Project construction activities. These materials shall include drip pans, buckets, absorbent pads, strawbales, absorbent clay, sawdust, spill containment barriers, heavy plastic sheeting, plastic bags, shovels, and sealable containers, depending on the activities involved. b) Implementation of the sewer line replacement project would not adversely affect groundwater resources in the area. Reduction of I&I throughout the sewer system has the potential to increase groundwater levels in the area as much of the I&I is from groundwater entering the system. No additional impervious surfaces are proposed as part of the project and all construction BMPs will be adhered to in an effort to prevent groundwater contamination. As such, there would be no impacts to groundwater. c.i-iii) The project seeks to replace aging and damaged sewer lines throughout the City in an effort to reduce I&I. Construction activities will take place in existing roadways and easements and will not involve construction of additional impervious surfaces. The current state of the sewer lines in the City allows for a high amount of I&I. As such, during storm events, water has the ability to infiltrate the lines and drain to the WWTF. After implementation of the project, water will not be able to infiltrate sewer lines and may lead to additional potential runoff in the area. However, as the City is largely developed with urban improvements including impervious surfaces for roadways, sidewalks, and parking lots, the additional runoff is anticipated to be minimal. Additionally, the City is in the process of updating its Drainage Master Plan. This plan will identify and guide drainage upgrades throughout the City over the next 10 years. Proposed project activities do not significantly affect sensitive waterways or riparian habitats and will not substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the area in a manner that would result in flooding, erosion, or siltation on- or off-site, of create runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff. Based on the minimal amount of additional runoff and the City’s current planning efforts for drainage, impacts are anticipated to be less than significant. d) The Eel River Valley is subject to flooding and in heavy rainfall years portions of the City may be inundated by flood waters. The sewer line replacement project does not encourage development in districts that may be adjacent to flood prone areas, nor will it increase capacity of the system. Additionally, the project will repair deteriorated pipelines that may be susceptible to further decline and potential failure during flood events. As such, there would be no impacts to flood areas. e) The Eel River Valley was ranked as medium priority by the California Department of Water Resources. However, it was demonstrated that the basin has operated within its limits over a 10-
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year period and is now subject to an Alternative Annual Report. Any activities resulting from implementation of the sewer line replacement project would adhere to the regulations and guidelines set forth by the City in order to protect water resources and would be in keeping with the North Coast Basin Plan (discussed earlier). Therefore, implementation of the project would not conflict with current plans and no impacts are anticipated.
Less Than Potentially Less Than No Significant With LAND USE AND PLANNING Significant Significant Impact Mitigation Would the project: a) Physically divide an established X community? b) Cause a significant environmental impact due to a conflict with any land use plan, policy, or regulation adopted X for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect?
Setting Predominant land uses in the City are single family residential surrounded by agriculture, commercial along Main Street, and public and open space uses. The General Plan Land Use Element guides growth and development. The Land Use Element includes: (1) a set of goals and policies which guide land use decisions; (2) a set of land use designations which identify the type, density and development standards of permitted/ planned land uses; and (3) a General Plan Land Use Map which identifies the distribution of permitted/ planned land uses by land use designation.
Discussion a,b) The project would not physically divide an established community as it involves replacement of existing pipeline in existing street right of ways within the established community of Ferndale. Further, the project was identified as a Capital Improvement Project, and as such is consistent with the General Plan. Therefore, no impacts are anticipated on land use and planning elements.
Less Than Potentially Less Than No Significant With MINERAL RESOURCES Significant Significant Impact Mitigation Would the project: a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of X value to the region and the residents of the state? b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally-important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local X general plan, specific plan or other land use plan?
Setting There are no surface mining operations within the Ferndale City limits, but the County supports a significant number of river and quarry mining operations that extract over one million cubic yards of material annually. These mining operations support the construction industry of Northern California.
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Aggregate (sand and gravel) resources in Humboldt County are concentrated along the Eel and Van Duzen Rivers. The nearest sand and gravel extraction activities to Ferndale are located at Fernbridge on the Worswick Bar.
Discussion a,b) Mineral resources used in connection with the replacement of sanitary sewer lines will be those associated with construction and road repair. The limited amount of mineral resources needed for the sanitary sewer line replacements within the City would not have a substantial adverse impact on the local mineral resources or reserves. Therefore, based on the above, the proposed project would not result in the loss of availability of a State or locally known mineral resource and no impacts are anticipated to occur.
Less Than Potentially Less Than No Significant With NOISE Significant Significant Impact Mitigation Would the project result in: a) Generation of a substantial temporary or permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the project in
excess of standards established in the X local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies? b) Generation of excessive ground borne X vibration or ground borne noise levels? c) For a project located within the vicinity of a private airstrip or 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, X would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels?
Setting The City of Ferndale has established ordinances concerning noise in its broader Nuisance Ordinance 06- 04. §7.04 of the Nuisance Ordinance outlines activities considered to be unlawful including excessive noise from residences and automobiles. Additionally, §7.04.2(d) refers to construction noise within the City. Construction activities are limited to between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends with no construction allowed on Federal holidays.
The City also addresses noise in the General Plan Noise and Air Quality Element. The Noise Element states that traffic is the main source of noise within the City. Normal ambient levels on Main Street were measured at 52 dB and at 5th at Shaw Streets ambient levels were measured at 45 dB which is below the normally accepted levels for residential areas as outlined by the California Department of Health, Office of Noise Control17.
17 City of Ferndale, General Plan Noise and Air Quality Elements, April 2016 Draft, pg. 4-2 to 4-3.
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Community noise is commonly described in terms of the “ambient” noise level, which is defined as the all-encompassing noise level associated with a given noise environment. A common statistical tool to measure the ambient noise level is the average, or equivalent sound level (Leq), which corresponds to a steady-state sound level containing the same total energy as a time varying signal over a given period (usually one hour). The Leq is the foundation of the composite noise descriptors such as Ldn and CNEL, and shows very good correlation with community response to noise. The California Department of Health Services’ (DHS’s) Office of Noise Control has studied the correlation of noise levels and their effects on various land uses and has published land use compatibility guidelines for the noise elements of local general plans. The guidelines are the basis for most noise element land use compatibility guidelines. The recommended maximum normally acceptable noise levels for various land uses are shown below.
Table 1: Maximum Allowable Ambient Noise Exposure18
Suggested Land Use Maximum (Ldn dBA) Residential - Low Density 60 Residential - High Density 65 Transient Lodging 65 Schools Libraries Churches Hospitals 70 Auditoriums 70 Playgrounds Parks 70 Commercial 70 Industrial 75 Note: Ldn = day-night average sound level.
Discussion a) Replacement of sanitary sewer lines will result in a temporary increase of ambient noise levels due to use of construction equipment. Specifically, excavation of lines within roadways may require asphalt saws, jackhammers, front loaders, and other heavy equipment. A sample list of equipment and associated noise level is shown below.
Table 2: Construction Equipment Noise Levels
Measured Lmax Equipment Type at 50 ft (dBA)19 Jackhammer 89 Excavator 81 Compactor (ground) 83 Front End Loader 79 Pneumatic Tools 85
Use of construction equipment will exceed the normal ambient noise level on Main Street and the recommended ambient noise levels for commercial and residential areas. However, these elevated noise levels will be temporary and construction activities will be confined to the hours of 7 a.m. to
18 California Governor’s Office of Planning and Research, General Plan Guidelines: 2017 Update, Appendix D – Noise Element Guidelines, July 2017. 19 Federal Highway Administration, Construction Noise Handbook, Chapter 9.0: Construction Equipment Noise Levels and Ranges. Accessed October 8, 2020 from https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/noise/construction_noise/handbook/handbook09.cfm.
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7 p.m. during weekdays and 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends in accordance with the City of Ferndale Noise Ordinance. Additionally, impacts will be further reduced with implementation of Mitigation Measures NOI-1. Therefore, any impacts on noise levels as a result of the Project are considered to be less than significant with mitigation.
Mitigation NOI-1 Construction Noise: Project contractors will utilize the best available noise control techniques when working within the residential areas such as improved mufflers on the equipment. Additionally, all motorized equipment shall not be left idling for excessive periods of time when not in use. b) Construction activities resulting from replacement of sanitary sewer lines may produce some ground vibration. This vibration will occur in areas previously disturbed by construction activities and readily used for transportation by gravel mining and agricultural trucks. The ground vibration will be temporary in nature and will only be present when heavy machinery such as excavators or jackhammers are used. Therefore, any impacts on ground vibration as a result of the Project are considered to be less than significant. c) There are no airports located within two miles of the City of Ferndale. As such, there will be no impacts that would expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels.
Less Than POPULATION AND Potentially Less Than No Significant with Significant Significant Impact HOUSING Mitigation Would the project: a) Induce substantial unplanned population growth in the area, either directly (for example, by proposing new X homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of roads or other infrastructure)? b) Displace substantial numbers of existing people or housing, necessitating the X construction of replacement housing elsewhere?
Setting According to the 2010 US Census, the City of Ferndale had a population of 1,371. The most recent American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimate based on 2014 to 2018 data shows a population increase to 1,365 (+/-213). The ACS also estimates that there are 741 (+/-87) housing units within the City with an average household size of 2.28 persons. The projected growth rate for Humboldt County overall is expected to be approximately 1.9% during the 2019 to 2027 RHNA review period20 according to the California Department of Finance. The HCD has a slightly higher projection of 3.0% for the county which was used in determining the projected housing need21.
Discussion
20 California Department of Finance, Demographic Research Unit, Projections 2010-2060, Updated May 2019. 21 California Department of Housing and Community Development, Division of Housing Policy Development, Final 6th Cycle Regional housing Need Determination for Humboldt County, August 27, 2018.
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a,b) The Project proposes to replace aging sanitary sewer lines throughout the City. Lines will be replaced with right sized plastic piping to accommodate existing demands. No extension of lines or increase of capacity is proposed. As such, the Project will not indirectly induce population growth or displace existing people or housing and no impacts are anticipated to occur.
Less Than Potentially Less Than No Significant With PUBLIC SERVICES Significant Significant Impact Mitigation Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of 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 public services:
a) Fire protection? X b) Police protection? X c) Schools? X d) Parks? X e) Other public facilities? X
Setting The City of Ferndale is responsible for providing several public services including, but not limited to, wastewater collection and treatment, stormwater management, police protection, and parks and recreation. These services are considered vital to the health and well-being of residents in the City. Ferndale Unified School District provides elementary, middle, and high school education for area residents. The City also has a library that is a branch of the Humboldt County Public Library system.
Discussion a) The Ferndale Volunteer Fire Protection District (VFPD) provides fire protection services to the City of Ferndale and the unincorporated communities of Grizzly Bluff, Arlynda Corners, Centerville, Port Kenyon, Wildcat Ridge, and other areas south of the Eel River22. Construction activities will take place along Brown Street where the Ferndale VFPD station is located. In order to ensure continued accessibility, the selected contractor will work closely with the VFPD to ensure that engines are able to exit and enter the station as necessary so there will be no interruption of service.
The Project does not propose any activities that may increase the number of emergency medical or fire calls either in the short term or long term. Construction activities will take place under standard OSHA guidelines and all necessary personal protection equipment will be worn to reduce the likelihood of sever injury. As such, less than significant impacts on fire protection within the City are anticipated. b) Law enforcement in the City of Ferndale is provided by two agencies: the Ferndale Police Department (PD) and the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Department (SD). The Ferndale PD provides services within the City limits and the SD provides services in the adjacent unincorporated areas. In the event additional aid is needed, officers from other nearby agencies will respond including Eureka, Rio Dell, California Highway Patrol, and California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
As with fire protection, the Project is not anticipated to result in any additional emergency or non- emergency calls that would require police assistance. However, the police department may be
22 Humboldt LAFCo, op. cit., pg. 25.
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utilized for traffic control during construction periods should construction crews be insufficient to maintain traffic flow around active work areas. This use will be temporary and limited to locations where work is actively taking place in roadways. Therefore, any impacts on police services from the Project are considered to be less than significant. c) School services in the City of Ferndale are provided by the Ferndale Unified School District which currently operates the Ferndale Elementary School and Ferndale High School. There are currently 350 students at the elementary school which serves grades TK to 8th and 160 students at the high school which serves grades 9th to 12th,23. The Project does not have any project elements associated with school services nor will it increase capacity of the system which could lead to additional development. All construction work on the elementary school grounds will take place during the summer when there are no students present and will not interrupt instruction. Therefore, no impact will occur. d) See section Recreation “a”.
e) Replacement of sanitary sewer lines will have a direct positive impact on the wastewater treatment facility. The Project is intended to reduce I&I which will increase the efficiency of the treatment plant and reduce reliance on the wastewater retention pond during wet weather flows. No other services are anticipated to be impacted. As such, there will be no impact to other services.
Less Than Potentially Less Than No Significant With RECREATION Significant Significant Impact Mitigation Would the project: a) Would the project increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities X such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated? b) Does the project include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities X which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment?
Setting The City of Ferndale maintains two parks within the City boundary: Russ Park and Firemen’s Park. Russ Park is a 105-acre park in the south of the City that contains several walking trails totaling approximately 4 miles. It was deeded to the City in 1920 by Mrs. Zipporah Patrick Russ. Firemen’s Park, also located in the southern portion of the City, offers a picnic area, playground, softball field, and Bocce Courts24. The City also contains the Humboldt County Fairgrounds which is used for a variety of regional activities, including but not limited to fairs, horse racing, and bicycle races. Although the City does not have a park standard or park dedication requirements, the City’s existing park to population ratio exceeds the
23 Ferndale Unified School District, Local Control Accountability Plan and Annual Update (LCAP), Year 2018-19, November 2018. 24 City of Ferndale, Facilities, Firemen’s Park and Russ Park. Accessed August 2, 2019 from https://ci.ferndale.ca.us/city-of- ferndale-facilities/russ-park/.
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State’s recommended Quimby Act guideline of 3-5 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents.
Discussion a,b) It is anticipated the project would not increase usage of park facilities because there will be no expansion of service or increase of capacity that could lead to further development within the City, thereby increasing population or visitor use. The project does not include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities. As such, there will be no impact.
Less Than Potentially Less Than No Significant With TRANSPORTATION Significant Significant Impact Mitigation Would the project: a) Conflict with a program, plan, ordinance or policy addressing the circulation system, including transit, roadway, X bicycle, and pedestrian facilities? b) Would the project conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines X section 15064.3 subdivision (b)? c) Substantially increase hazards due to a geometric design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or X incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? d) Result in inadequate emergency access? X
Physical Setting The City of Ferndale encompasses one square mile of land along the southern edge of the Eel River plain. The main access road is Highway 211 which turns into Main Street within the City. Other small streets branch off of Main Street creating a small network of roadways with an irregular pattern. Currently, there is no transit system that operates in the City. As such, City residents must rely on personal transportation to commute to areas outside the City.
Highway 211 crosses the Eel River at Fernbridge and is sometimes subject to flooding. In cases of heavy rainfall and runoff, the Eel River overflows its banks and floods the western approach of Fernbridge resulting in closure of Highway 211. When closed, Ferndale residents must use backroads, such as Grizzly Bluff Road, to travel to Belleview approximately 10 miles southeast of the City.
The City of Ferndale maintains their Traffic Ordinance 04-01 which provides regulations for roadways including rules for bicycles, skateboards, parking, riding animals, and other traffic related issues. The purpose of the ordinance, as stated in §1.02, is for the preservation of the public safety and welfare in connection with vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
Regulatory Setting The Humboldt County Association of Governments conducts a regular update to the Humboldt County Regional Transportation Plan with the latest update completed for planning year 2017. The plan serves as a guide for coordinated and efficient development of the transportation system in the region. It also
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takes into consideration several other regional plans including bike plans, transit development plans, and trails plans in an effort to promote an efficient and useful multimodal transportation network for area residents.
In January 2019, the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research released comprehensive updates to the CEQA Guidelines, including updates to the Transportation Section, including changing the title of the section from “Transportation and Traffic” to simply “Transportation”, and adding a new section regarding determining the significance of a project’s transportation impacts (CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3). The updated guidelines exhibit a clear intent to prioritize infill projects and shift away from congestion-based Level of Service (LOS) standards to Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT), which more efficiently analyzes a project’s energy usage and overall environmental impact. Using VMT also ensures that infill projects, which may cause traffic congestion but also decrease energy inefficiencies, are not penalized.
CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3. Determining the Significance of Transportation Impacts. (a) Purpose. This section describes specific considerations for evaluating a project’s transportation impacts. Generally, vehicle miles traveled is the most appropriate measure of transportation impacts. For the purposes of this section, “vehicle miles traveled” refers to the amount and distance of automobile travel attributable to a project. Other relevant considerations may include the effects of the project on transit and non-motorized travel. Except as provided in subdivision (b)(2) (regarding roadway capacity), a project’s effect on automobile delay shall not constitute a significant environmental impact.
Discussion a) The project seeks to improve and maintain one of the City’s primary services: wastewater. The project would be subject to current City ordinances concerning construction work within roadways and easements. The project does not propose any permanent alteration to the street network or traffic flow of the city. There may be temporary disruptions in traffic flow from construction activities as work will largely be taking place in road right of ways. However, it is not anticipated that work will require complete street closures and detours. Additionally, any potential impacts will be further reduced by Mitigation Measure TRAF-1. As such, any impacts to current programs and plans would be less than significant with mitigation.
Mitigation TRA-1 Traffic Control Plan: Project contractors will prepare a Traffic Control Plan for any work that will substantially alter traffic flow patterns. The Plan will be submitted to the City and Caltrans (if required for the Main Street sections). b) Section 15064.3 (b) of the CEQA guidelines outlines “Criteria for Analyzing Transportation Impacts”. The project will not permanently alter the current design of streets or traffic flow patterns in the City and will not create a new source or destination for vehicle trips. Humboldt County does not currently have VMT thresholds or guidelines. However, the Project is the rehabilitation of an existing underground wastewater pipeline, and as such the Project will not significantly impact VMT. Construction of the project will create a temporary increase in VMT due to additional construction workers traveling to the project site and the use of construction equipment. However, this increase in trips will be temporary and take place in phases as funding becomes available. As such impacts on VMTs are anticipated to the less than significant. c) No modifications to roadway features are proposed as part of the Project. The Project would replace existing underground pipeline and result in minimal work outside of the existing pipeline rights-of-
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way. No permanent alterations to the design of roadways or features will take place as part of the project. As such, the project will not substantially increase hazards and no impact will occur.
d) The Project would replace portions of an existing wastewater pipeline and involve other minor improvements to the underground wastewater conveyance system. No long-term modifications to roadway features are proposed as part of the Project and, therefore would not result in any long- term adverse impacts on emergency access during the operational phase.
Traffic disruption may occur during Project construction, including in front of the Ferndale Volunteer Fire Department located on Brown Street. The contractor will be required to work in stages to allow the fire trucks to respond to calls. The fire department and other emergency service providers will be well informed of the Project construction and appropriate measures for emergency access will be established. Therefore, the Project would not result in inadequate emergency and have a less than significant impact in this area.
Less Than TRIBAL CULTURAL Potentially Less Than No Significant With Significant Significant Impact RESOURCES Mitigation Would the project: Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource, defined in Public Resources Code section 21074 as either a site, feature, place, cultural landscape, sacred place, or object with cultural value to a California Native American Tribe, and that is: a) Listed or eligible for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources, or in a local register of X historical resources as defined in Public Resources Code section 5020.1 (k), or b) A resource determined by the lead agency, in its discretion and supported by substantial evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resources Code X Section 5024.1. In applying the criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resources Code Section 5024.1, the Lead Agency shall consider the significance of the resource to a California Native American Tribe.
Setting Wiyot occupation of the Humboldt Bay region preceded Euroamerican history from “time immemorial.” Wiyot people lived along and fished the Eel River until the time of European settlement when they were driven out. A small village, Wotwetwok, was once located along the Salt River which runs north of the City and is a tributary to the Eel River25. It is likely that Wiyot peoples utilized the lands in and around Ferndale for hunting, fishing, and gathering purposes before the City was settled in 1852.
25 California Department of Fish and Game, Salt River Watershed Assessment, May 2005. Native Inhabitants summary provided by Marnie Atkins, Cultural Director of the Table Bluff Reservation of the Wiyot Tribe, pg. 43.
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A Tribal Consultation notice was sent to representatives of the Wiyot Tribe and the Bear River Band of Rohnerville Rancheria in accordance with AB 52 and pursuant to Public Resources Code §21080.3.1 on January 5, 2021. No responses have been received from either tribe.
Discussion a, b) The project seeks to replace sewer lines in already disturbed areas by excavating existing pipelines in existing street right of ways and utility easements, installing new PVC pipeline, backfilling, and patching disturbed street areas. No known tribal cultural resources have been identified within the Project area. Excavation will occur in already disturbed areas, however, there does exist a possibility of unearthing unknown artifacts of historical significance to local tribes during construction activities. In such an event, the project will be subject to local and regional regulations regarding tribal resources and Mitigation Measures CUL-1 and CUL-2 will be utilized. With implementation of these measures, potential impacts related to tribal cultural resources would be less than significant with mitigation.
Less Than UTILITIES AND SERVICE Potentially Less Than No Significant With Significant Significant Impact SYSTEMS Mitigation Would the project: a) Require or result in the relocation or construction of new or expanded water, wastewater treatment, or storm water drainage, electric power, natural gas, or X telecommunications facilities, the construction or relocation of which could cause significant environmental effects? b) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project and reasonably X foreseeable future development during normal, dry and multiple dry years? c) Result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider which serves or may serve the project that it X has inadequate capacity to serve the project’s projected demand in addition to the provider’s existing commitments? d) Generate solid waste in excess of State or local standards, or in excess of the capacity of local infrastructure, or X otherwise impair the attainment of solid waste reduction goals? e) Comply with federal, state, and local management and reduction statutes and X regulations related to solid waste?
Setting The City of Ferndale provides multiple basic services to the community including, but not limited to, public facilities, public roads, stormwater management, and wastewater collection and treatment. Water service is provided by the Del Oro Water Company which also provides water to service districts in several counties.
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The City owns and operates a WWTF located just north of the City boundary within unincorporated Humboldt County. Treated wastewater discharges are regulated by the RWQCB Waste Discharge Requirements (WDR’s). The RWQCB approved new WDRs for the City in July 2009, which allowed for a variance to Basin Plan requirements for the City’s proposed WWTF upgrades. The City spent considerable time, effort and resources to comply with RWQCB requirements and to work towards the permitting and construction of WWTF upgrades which were completed in 2012.
Discussion a) The project would not result in relocation of wastewater treatment, but rather will replace existing sewer lines within existing roadways and easements. The project will also not require the construction of additional wastewater treatment facilities at will not increase the overall capacity of the system.
Replacement of the sewer lines will reduce the overall amount of I&I allowing the treatment system to operate more effectively. However, by reducing the amount of I&I, there may be an increase of surface ponding and runoff during precipitation events. However, the amount of additional runoff, if any, is likely to be minimal as much of the city is developed and includes impervious surfaces. Additionally, the City is in the process of updating its Drainage Master Plan which will help guide improvement of the existing stormwater system. Based on the minimal amount of additional runoff expected and the current planning efforts of the City, impacts are expected to be less than significant. b) They City of Ferndale obtains water from the Del Oro Water Company’s Ferndale District. The Ferndale District consists of one well and one large concreate storage tank along with associated water mains and other distribution infrastructure. Two springs and the well provide a maximum production capacity of approximately 518,000 gallons per day. As of 2012 only approximately 40% of the maximum production was being used26 which allows ample room for growth in the community. The project does not involve new development that would require water supplies. Therefore, there would be no impact. c) The City of Ferndale provides wastewater treatment services to residents of the City and parcels in the Arlynda Corners area. The City updated its wastewater treatment facility in 2012 so that it now has a maximum capacity of 1.0 million gallons per day with additional storage capacity of 5.0 million gallons per day. The City is now looking at options for upgrading the collection system as it currently has a high rate of inflow and infiltration. The project does not encourage new development within the City which could lead to increased demand on the City’s wastewater collection system. Therefore, there would be no impacts. d,e) Recology Eel River provides solid waste disposal services for the City of Ferndale. Collection services include green waste, recycling, and trash pickup. Solid waste that is not recycled or otherwise diverted is taken to one of two landfills; Anderson Landfill or Dry Creek Landfill. The project will not generate solid waste in excess of State or local standards, or in excess of the capacity of local infrastructure, or otherwise impair the attainment of solid waste reduction goals. The project complies with federal, state, and local management and reduction statutes and regulations related to solid waste. Therefore, there would be no impacts.
26 Humboldt LAFCo, op. cit., pg. 31.
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Less Than Potentially Less Than No Significant With WILDFIRE Significant Significant Impact Mitigation If located in or near state responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire severity zones, would the project: a) Substantially impair an adopted emergency response plan or emergency X evacuation plan? b) Due to slope, prevailing winds, and other factors, exacerbate wildfire risks, and thereby expose project occupants to, X pollutants from a wildfire or the uncontrolled spread of wildfire? c) Require the installation or maintenance of associated infrastructure (such as roads, fuel breaks, emergency water sources, power lines or other utilities) X that may exacerbate fire risk or that may result in temporary or ongoing impacts to the environment? d) Expose people or structures to significant risks, including downslope or downstream flooding or landslides, as a X result of runoff, post-fire slope instability, or drainage change?
Setting Wildland fire protection in California is the responsibility of either the State, local, or federal government. A State Responsibility Area (SRA) is a legal term defining the area where the State has financial responsibility for wildland fire protection. Incorporated cities and areas of federal ownership are not included. The prevention and suppression of fires in all areas that are not SRAs are primarily the responsibility of local or federal agencies. Local Responsibility Areas (LRAs) include incorporated cities, cultivated agriculture lands, and portions of the desert. Local responsibility area fire protection is typically provided by city fire departments, fire protection districts, counties, and by CAL FIRE under contract to local government.
The City is primarily located on flat river plain and is surrounded by mostly open agricultural land. The southern border of the City is forested and some portions are characterized by moderate slopes. The Fire Resource Assessment Program run by CalFire provides assessments for Fire Hazard Severity Zones in both SRA and LRA jurisdictions. According to maps for Humboldt County, much of Ferndale is unzoned, however, the southern portion of the City and minimal portions to the north are designated as Moderate and High Fire Hazard Severity Zones within LRA’s27. Beyond the City boundary to the south are SRA’s zoned as High Fire Hazard Severity Zones.
27 CalFire, Draft Fire Hazard Severity Zones in LRA, Humboldt County, September 19, 2007.
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Discussion a) The project will be completed in phases so as to not impair an adopted emergency plan or emergency evacuation plan by ensuring access in the event of an emergency or evacuation. Further, much of the City of Ferndale is unzoned with the southern portion and minimal north portions designated Moderate and High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. Therefore, there will be no impacts on wildfire hazards as a result of the Sanitary Sewer Replacement Project.
b-d) The project does not include site-specific modifications that would expose project occupants to pollutants from a wildfire or the uncontrolled spread of wildfire. Further, the project does not require the installation or maintenance of associated infrastructure (such as roads, fuel breaks, emergency water sources, power lines or other utilities) that may exacerbate fire risk or that may result in temporary or ongoing impacts to the environment, or expose people or structures to significant risks, including downslope or downstream flooding or landslides, as a result of runoff, post-fire slope instability, or drainage change. As such, there will be no impacts.
Less Than MANDATORY FINDINGS OF Potentially Significant Less Than No SIGNIFICANCE Significant With Significant Impact Mitigation a) Does the project have the potential to substantially degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the X 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, substantially 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 X 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 which will cause substantial X adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly?
Discussion Certain mandatory findings of significance must be made to comply with CEQA Guidelines §15065. The proposed project has been analyzed, and it has been determined that it would not: • Substantially degrade environmental quality; • Substantially reduce fish or wildlife habitat;
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• Cause a fish or wildlife population to fall below self-sustaining levels; • Threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community; • Reduce the numbers or range of a rare, threatened, or endangered species; • Eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or pre-history; • Achieve short term goals to the disadvantage of long-term goals; • Have environmental effects that will directly or indirectly cause substantial adverse effects on human beings; or • Have possible environmental effects that are individually limited but cumulatively considerable when viewed in connection with past, current, and reasonably anticipated future projects. The project has been evaluated in this initial study and determined to have no potentially significant impacts either individually or cumulatively. This is largely because the project will not increase the capacity of the sewer system or the WWTF. The project only seeks to repair and replace existing aging lines to meet current standards. It is not anticipated that there will be any direct or indirect adverse effects on either the environment or human beings. a) Potential project related environmental impacts, including impacts to habitat for fish and wildlife species, fish and wildlife populations, plant and animal communities, rare and endangered plants and animal species, and historical and prehistoric resources were evaluated as part of the analysis in this document. See Biological Resources and Cultural Resources Sections for specific discussions supporting this finding. The proposed project would not substantially degrade the quality of the environment and impacts would be less than significant. b) The project’s impacts would not add appreciably to any existing or foreseeable future significant cumulative impact, such as visual quality, historic resources, traffic impacts, or air quality degradation. The project does have the potential to increase surface runoff throughout the City. However, as the project will take place in phases as funding becomes available, and the City is in the process of updating the Drainage Master Plan, these impacts are anticipated to be minimal and accommodate by updated infrastructure over time. As such, potential cumulative impacts would be less than significant. c) The project is not expected to have environmental effects that will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly. Rehabilitation of the aging sanitary sewer system in the City will lead to more efficient operation of the WWTF and will decrease the chance of sewer overflows and/or failures. As such, potential impacts would be less than significant.
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Appendix A Mitigation, Monitoring, and Reporting Program
May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 109 ______
Mitigation Measure Description Reporting Timeline Responsible Party Standard BMPs to control dust during construction activities AIR-1: Fugitive Dust Prior to and during Contractor and will be utilized. Best management practices may include Control construction activities Project Engineer applying water to disturbed soils a minimum of two times per day, covering haul vehicles, replanting any disturbed vegetated areas as soon as practical, restrict vehicle speeds on unpaved roads, and other measures as determined necessary to limit dust.
Improvement Area 1 construction activities will take place BIO-1: Improvement Area During project Contractor and during the dry season (typically April-October) and will be re- 1 Construction construction activities Project Engineer planted with native vegetation; once the new sewer line is installed the site will be returned to pre-project conditions. If cultural materials (e.g. chipped or ground stone, historic CUL-1: Inadvertent During project Contractor and City debris, building foundations, bone) are discovered during Discovery of construction activities, Representative ground-disturbance activities, work shall be stopped within 20 Archaeological Material. upon inadvertent meters (66 feet) of the discovery, per the requirements of discovery. CEQA. Work near the archaeological finds shall not resume until a professional archaeologist, who meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines, has evaluated the materials and offered recommendations for further action.
If human remains are discovered during project construction, CUL-2: Inadvertent During project Contractor and City work will stop at the discovery location, within 20 meters (66 Discovery of Human construction activities, Representative feet), and any nearby area reasonably suspected to overlie or Remains. upon inadvertent be adjacent to human remains (Public Resources Code, Section discovery 7050.5). The Humboldt County coroner will be contacted to determine if the cause of death must be investigated. If the coroner determines that the remains are of Native American origin, it is necessary to comply with state laws relating to the disposition of Native American burials, which fall within the jurisdiction of the NAHC (Public Resources Code, Section 5097). The coroner will contact the NAHC. The descendants or most
May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 110 ______
Mitigation Measure Description Reporting Timeline Responsible Party likely descendants of the deceased will be contacted, and work will not resume until they have made a recommendation to the landowner or the person responsible for the excavation work for means of treatment and disposition, with appropriate dignity, of the human remains and any associated grave goods, as provided in Public Resources Code, Section 5097.98.
Spill response materials will be made available on site during HYD-1 Spill Response: During project Contractor and Project construction activities. These materials shall include construction activities. Project Engineer drip pans, buckets, absorbent pads, strawbales, absorbent clay, sawdust, spill containment barriers, heavy plastic sheeting, plastic bags, shovels, and sealable containers, depending on the activities involved. Project contractors will utilize the best available noise control NOI-1 Construction Noise: During project Contractor and techniques when working within the residential areas such as construction activities. Project Engineer improved mufflers on the equipment. Additionally, all motorized equipment shall not be left idling for excessive periods of time when not in use. Project contractors will prepare a Traffic Control Plan for any TRA-1: Traffic Control Before construction Contractor and work that will substantially alter traffic flow patterns. The Plan Plan begins. Project Engineer will be submitted to the City and Caltrans (if required for the Main Street sections).
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Meeting Date: May 19, 2021 Agenda Item Number 13.c Agenda Item Title SB1 Funding FY 2021-22 Project List – Resolution 2021-07 Adopting a list of projects for Fiscal Year 2021-22 funded by SB 1: The Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017 Presented By: City Manager Type of Item: x Action Discussion Information Action Required: No Action Voice Vote x Roll Call Vote
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: SB1 Grant Funding FY 2021-22 Project List Update STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Receive update, accept public comment, and adopt Resolution 2021-07. DISCUSSION: The Local Streets and Roads Program (LSRP) was created by Senate Bill (SB) 1- the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017. SB 1 dedicated approximately $1.5 billion per year in new formula revenues apportioned by the State Controller to cities and counties for basic road maintenance, rehabilitation, and critical safety projects on the local streets and roads system.
To be eligible for Local Streets and Roads Program funding from the State Controller’s Office each year, cities and counties must adopt a proposed project list at a regular meeting of their board or council and then submit the list of proposed projects to the California Transportation Commission. Once proposed project lists are reviewed and deemed to be complete, the Commission adopts and sends to the Controller a list of cities and counties eligible to receive funding that fiscal year. After the Controller receives the list of eligible cities and counties, the apportionment process begins for that fiscal year, and funds are disbursed monthly by formula.
In FY 2020-21, the City of Ferndale was estimated to be apportioned $25,894 and has so far received $16,865 (through April 22, 2021). The anticipated apportionment for FY 2021-22 is $26,796. Newly proposed projects include intersection improvements along Berding Street. Additional projects that have been carried over from prior years will remain eligible for funding should the City move forward with construction. Five total projects are listed in the attached resolution, along with a brief project description, location, anticipated project schedule, and useful life. This resolution will be submitted to the California Transportation Commission after Council adoption.
ATTACHMENTS: Resolution 2021-XX Adopting a list of projects for Fiscal Year 2021-22 funded by SB 1: The Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017 May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 112 ______
RESOLUTION NO. 2021-07
RESOLUTION ADOPTING A LIST OF PROJECTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2021-22 FUNDED BY SB 1: THE ROAD REPAIR AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT OF 2017
WHEREAS, Senate Bill 1 (SB 1), the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017 (Chapter 5, Statutes of 2017) was passed by the Legislature and Signed into law by the Governor in April 2017 to address the significant multi-modal transportation funding shortfalls statewide; and
WHEREAS, SB 1 includes accountability and transparency provisions that will ensure the residents of our City are aware of the projects proposed for funding in our community and which projects have been completed each fiscal year; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ferndale must adopt by resolution a list of projects proposed to receive fiscal year funding from the Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account (RMRA), created by SB 1, which must include a description and the location of each proposed project, a proposed schedule for the project’s completion, and the estimated useful life of the improvement; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ferndale will receive an estimated $26,796 in RMRA funding in Fiscal Year 2021-22 from SB 1; and
WHEREAS, this is the fifth year in which the City is receiving SB 1 funding and will enable the City to continue essential road maintenance and rehabilitation projects, safety improvements, repairing and replacing aging bridges, and increasing access and mobility options for the traveling public that would not have otherwise been possible without SB 1; and
WHEREAS, the City has undergone a public process to ensure public input into our community’s transportation priorities/the project list; and
WHEREAS, the funding from SB 1 will help the City maintain and rehabilitate roads and accompanying drainage infrastructure throughout the City; and
WHEREAS, the 2018 California Statewide Local Streets and Roads Needs Assessment found that the City’s streets and roads are in an “at-risk” condition and this revenue will help us increase the overall quality of our road system and over the next decade will bring our streets and roads into an overall improved condition, improve overall safety of the road system, and reduce effects to private property; and
WHEREAS, the SB 1 project list and overall investment in our local streets and roads infrastructure with a focus on basic maintenance and safety, investing in complete streets infrastructure, and using cutting-edge technology, materials and practices, will have significant positive May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 113 ______
co-benefits on some of Ferndale’s most impacted streets and will ensure future development does not have a significant adverse effect on the City’s infrastructure.
NOW, THEREFORE IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED, ORDERED AND FOUND by the City Council of the City of Ferndale, State of California, as follows:
1. The foregoing recitals are true and correct.
2. The following list of proposed projects will be funded in-part or solely with fiscal year 2021-22 Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account revenues:
Washington and Berding Street Intersection Improvements Description: Commence with grading and resurfacing of roadway to alleviate large humps and troughs throughout intersection. Location: Washington Street and Berding Street Intersection, Ferndale, CA Estimated Useful Life: 100 years Anticipated Project Schedule: Start July 2021, End June 2022
Brown and Berding Street Intersection Improvements Description: Commence with grading and resurfacing of roadway to alleviate large humps and troughs throughout intersection. Location: Brown Street and Berding Street Intersection, Ferndale, CA Estimated Useful Life: 100 years Anticipated Project Schedule: Start July 2021, End June 2022
3. The following previously proposed and adopted projects may utilize fiscal year 2020-21 Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account revenues in their delivery. With the relisting of these projects in the adopted fiscal year resolution, the City/County is reaffirming to the public and the State our intent to fund these projects with Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account revenues:
Arlington Improvement Project (Carryover from FY 19/20) Project Description: Construction of new drainage around Fairgrounds out letting to Salt Creek. Location: Arlington Avenue, Arlington Street, 5th Street, Van Ness Street, Port Kenyon Road. Estimated Useful Life: 100 years Anticipated Project Schedule: Start July 2021, End July 2022
Washington Street Improvements (Carryover from FY 18/19) Project Description: Remove 325 feet of severely cracked pavement. Location: Washington Street Estimated Useful Life: 100 years Anticipated Project Schedule: Start July 2021, End July 2022
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Shaw Avenue Improvements (Carryover from FY 18/19) Project Description: Replace 200 feet of severely cracked pavement. Location: Shaw Avenue Estimated Useful Life: 100 years Anticipated Project Schedule: Start July 2021, End July 2022
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Ferndale, State of California this 19th day of May, 2021, by the following vote:
AYES: NOES: ABSTAIN: ABSENT:
Attest:
______Don Hindley, Mayor
______
Kristene Hall, City Clerk
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Meeting Date: May 19, 2021 Agenda Item Number 13.d Agenda Item Title COVID-19 Update & Reconfirm Existence of Local Emergency
Presented By: City Manager Type of Item: X Action Discussion Information Action Required: No Action X Voice Vote Roll Call Vote
RECOMMENDATION:
Discuss COVID-19 and Reconfirm Existence of Local Emergency
DISCUSSION:
This agenda item give’s the council, staff, and public a chance to address any concerns or provide any updates from the COVID-19 Pandemic. The council may also choose to reconfirm the existence of a local emergency at this time.
ATTACHMENTS: Emergency Proclamation May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 116 ______May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 117 ______May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 118 ______May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 119 ______
Section 14
CORRESPONDENCE
Correspondence Files are available for review at City Hall during regular business hours, Monday through Thursday, 9am to 4pm.
May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 120 ______
California Energy Commission Business Meeting Agenda May 12, 2021 10 a.m. Remote participation instructions below, after line Items The California Energy Commission’s (CEC) May 12, 2021 Business Meeting will be held remotely, consistent with Executive Orders N-25-20 and N-29-20 and the recommendations from the California Department of Public Health to encourage physical distancing to slow the spread of COVID-19. The public may participate consistent with the direction in these Executive Orders. Pursuant to California Code of Regulations Title 20 section 1104(e), any person may make oral comment on any agenda item. To ensure the orderly conduct of business, such comments will be limited to three minutes or less per person. Any person wishing to comment on information items or reports (non-voting items) shall speak during the general public comment portion of the meeting and have three minutes or less to address all remaining comments. THE CEC WILL CONSIDER AND MAY TAKE ACTION ON THE FOLLOWING: 1. Consent Calendar Items will be taken up and voted on as a group. A commissioner may request that an item be moved and discussed later in the meeting. a. School Bus Replacement for California Public School Districts, County Offices of Education, and Joint Power Authorities – GFO-17-607. The purpose of this solicitation is to replace California’s oldest and dirtiest diesel school buses with all new battery-electric buses and install supporting charging infrastructure. (Clean Energy Job Creation Fund and Clean Transportation Program funding.) Contact: Ian Baird 1. Chowchilla Elementary School District. Proposed resolution approving Agreement ARV-20-011 with Chowchilla Elementary School District for a $381,184 grant to replace one diesel powered school bus with one clean, all- electric school bus and install supporting charging infrastructure; and adopting staff's determination that the installation of the charging infrastructure is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
California Energy Commission • 1516 Ninth Street, MS-14 • Sacramento, California 95814 • 916-654-3951 Page - 1
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2. Soledad Unified School District. Proposed resolution approving Agreement ARV-20-012 with Soledad Unified School District for a $392,009 grant to replace one diesel powered school bus with one clean, all-electric school bus and install supporting charging infrastructure; and adopting staff's determination that the installation of the charging infrastructure is exempt from CEQA. b. Subpoena for Provision of Data. Proposed order approving a subpoena directing the California Independent System Operator to provide data needed by CEC staff to evaluate generation and transmission outages, congestion, and load in assessing resource adequacy and system reliability. Contact: Christopher McLean c. Reappoint Two Members to the Disadvantaged Communities Advisory Group (DACAG). The purpose of the DACAG pursuant to Senate Bill 350 (De León, Chapter 547, Statutes of 2015) is to review and provide advice on proposed clean energy and pollution reduction programs and determine whether those proposed programs will be effective and useful in disadvantaged communities. Members of the DACAG may serve up to three consecutive staggered two-year terms. Five members’ terms begin April 1 and end March 31 of even-numbered years, and five members’ terms begin April 1 and end March 31 of odd-numbered years. Contact: Noemí Gallardo 1. Reappointment of Stephanie Chen: Stephanie was appointed to the DACAG in April 2018. After her first two-year term, the CEC and CPUC extended her term one additional year, through March 2021. She seeks to be re-appointed and is eligible to serve two more terms. 2. Reappointment of Román Partida-Lopez: Román was appointed to the DACAG in July 2020 to finish the term of another member that ended in March 2021. He seeks to be re-appointed and is eligible to serve three more terms. d. Electricity Demand Forecasts. Proposed resolution approving Forms and Instructions for Submitting Electricity Demand Forecasts in support of the 2021 Integrated Energy Policy Report. Obligated load-serving entities are instructed to provide the CEC with load data, economic and demographic projections, and other data related to electricity demand for historical years 2019 to 2020 and forecast years 2021 to 2032. Contact: Kelvin Ke e. Electricity Resource Plans. Proposed resolution approving Forms and Instructions for Submitting Electricity Resource Plans in support of the 2021 Integrated Energy
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Policy Report. Obligated load-serving entities are instructed to provide the CEC with energy and capacity requirements, generating resources projections, and other data related to electricity resource plans for historical years 2019 to 2020 and forecast years 2021 to 2030. Contact: Robert Kennedy 2. Diversity Commitment Update. Staff will present highlights of investment programs and efforts to accomplish the CEC’s Diversity Commitment to increase participation of and benefits to small and diverse business enterprises in funding programs and increase the participation of and benefits to disadvantaged communities through programs and policies. Contact: Noemí Gallardo (Staff Presentation: 30 minutes) 3. CA3 Backup Generating Facility (21-SPPE-01). Proposed order appointing a committee of two commissioners to preside over the small power plant exemption (SPPE) proceeding and any other proceedings arising from the application filed on April 12, 2021, by Vantage Data Services for the proposed CA3 Backup Generating Facility (CA3) at 2590 Walsh Avenue in Santa Clara, California. CA3 would consist of 44 2.75 megawatt (MW) diesel-fired generators to provide up to 96 MW of backup emergency generation for the associated CA3 Data Center building in the event electricity cannot be supplied by the utility, Silicon Valley Power. The CEC is the lead agency for the project under the Warren-Alquist Act and CEQA and will prepare the appropriate environmental document. If an SPPE is granted, the facility would be exempt from CEC jurisdiction and subject to permitting by the City of Santa Clara and other agencies. Contact: Eric Knight (Staff Presentation: 5 minutes) 4. Integrated Environmental Solutions (IES) Virtual Environment (VE) Approved Computer Compliance Program for 2019 Title 24, Part 6 Nonresidential, Version 1.0. Proposed resolution approving IES VE Title 24 2019 Version 1.0, by Integrated Environmental Solutions Limited, as an alternative calculation method for demonstrating performance compliance with the nonresidential provisions of the 2019 Building Energy Efficiency Standards, California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 1 and Part 6. Contact: RJ Wichert (Staff Presentation: 10 minutes)
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5. Energy Conservation Assistance Act Loan Program (ECAA). Proposed resolutions approving three loans: one ECAA-Ed loan to a local educational agency (LEA) at zero percent interest and two ECAA loans to municipalities at one percent interest to finance energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. (Clean Energy Job Creation Fund, ECAA-Ed Funding, and ECAA Funding) Contact: Matt Jones (Staff presentation: 5 minutes) a. Ravenswood City School District (ECAA-Ed Funding). Proposed resolution approving Agreement 016-20-ECG with Ravenswood City School District for a $2,925,948 zero-interest loan to retrofit lighting with LEDs and install 527 kW solar photovoltaic (PV) arrays. Approval to adopt staff's determination that this action is exempt from CEQA. The proposed PV projects are estimated to generate a combined total of 823,564 kWh of electricity and the LED lighting projects are estimated to save annually 140,166 kWh and $158,279. The loan repayment term is approximately 18.5 years. b. City of Ferndale (ECAA Funding). Proposed resolution approving Agreement 002- 20-ECI with the City of Ferndale for a $203,200 loan at one percent interest to install interior and exterior LED lighting at one city-owned facility and install rooftop solar PV systems totaling 56.6 kW at two city-owned buildings. Approval to adopt staff's determination that this action is exempt from CEQA. The proposed project is estimated to save annually 77,760 kWh and $14,827. The loan repayment term is approximately 13.7 years. c. Mariposa County (ECAA Funding). Proposed resolution approving Agreement 003- 20-ECI with Mariposa County for a $2,838,826 loan at one percent interest to install LED lighting at eight county sites and install carport solar PV systems totaling 376 kW at four separate county facilities. Approval to adopt staff’s determination that this action is exempt from CEQA. The proposed project is estimated to save annually 919,257 kWh and $190,823. The loan repayment term is approximately 14.9 years. 6. The University of California, Davis. Proposed resolution approving Agreement 600-20-009 with The Regents of the University of California, on behalf of the Davis campus to award a $125,000 contract to study the role of light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles and infrastructure in a California hydrogen transition, and adopting staff's recommendation that this action is
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exempt from CEQA. (Clean Transportation Program funding) Contact: Miki Crowell (Staff Presentation: 5 minutes) 7. Zero-Emission Transit Fleet Infrastructure Deployment (GFO-20-602). The purpose of this solicitation is to fund the electric vehicle charging or hydrogen refueling infrastructure needed to support the large-scale conversion of transit bus fleets to zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) at multiple transit agencies serving diverse geographic regions and populations. (Clean Transportation Program funding) Contact: Esther Odufuwa (Staff Presentation: 5 minutes) a. North County Transit District. Proposed resolution approving Agreement ARV-20- 013 with North County Transit District for a $4,013,750 grant to design and build a hydrogen fueling station, and adopting staff's determination that this action is exempt from CEQA. b. SunLine Transit Agency. Proposed resolution approving Agreement ARV-20-014 with SunLine Transit Agency for a $4,986,250 grant to expand their existing heavy- duty hydrogen fueling infrastructure to include a new stand-alone liquid hydrogen station to support current and future transit fueling needs, and adopting staff's determination that this action is exempt from CEQA. 8. Skyven Technologies, Inc. Proposed resolution approving Agreement PIR-20-005 with Skyven Technologies, Inc. for a $1,479,000 grant to fund the development of a high concentration PV and thermal system for solar combined heat and power in industrial applications, and adopting staff's determination that this action is exempt from CEQA. The project will support decarbonization of California's commercial and industrial sectors and reduce dependence on natural gas by using high-concentration secondary optics and water- cooled PV cells to simultaneously produce electricity and hot water that is cost competitive with electric and natural gas rates. (PIER NG funding) Contact: Baldomero Lasam (Staff presentation: 5 minutes) 9. AgMonitor Inc. Proposed resolution approving Agreement EPC-20-036 with AgMonitor Inc. for a $349,972 grant to expand the recipient's innovative software-as-a-service technology, and adopting staff's determination that this action is exempt from CEQA. The software technology will help California growers irrigate outside of peak demand periods and achieve permanent load shifting. The technology will be deployed on at least
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10,000 acres of farmland and will achieve at least 7 MW of load shifting over the agreement term. (EPIC funding) Contact: Anish Gautam (Staff Presentation: 5 minutes) 10. Bringing Rapid Innovation Development to Green Energy: (GFO-20-301). The purpose of this solicitation is to fund the continued development, specifically in applied research or technology demonstration and deployment, of high-potential, high- impact energy technologies that are too early for significant private-sector investment. (EPIC funding) Contact: Michael Ferreira (Staff Presentation: 5 minutes) a. Stasis Energy Group LLC. Proposed resolution approving Agreement EPC-20-037 with Stasis Energy Group LLC for a $1,634,740 grant to demonstrate its Thermal Energy Storage Systems (TESS) at 10 commercial buildings, with more than half of the demonstration sites located in disadvantaged or low-income communities, and adopting staff's determination that this action is exempt from CEQA. The proposed TESS uses a bio-based phase change material which stores energy harvested from the HVAC system during daily cooling operations and releases the energy during the costliest electricity generation periods of the day. In addition, the TESS cloud-connected controller can optimize thermal storage use, manage comfort settings for building occupants, and provide real-time and historical data on installed units. b. EPC Power Corp. Proposed resolution approving Agreement EPC-20-039 with EPC Power Corp. for a $3,499,532 grant to fund the design and construction of an innovative integrated power electronics/energy storage system to serve the grid- tied energy storage market, and adopting staff's determination that this action is exempt from CEQA. The system will be rated for 1 MW power and 1 MWh energy and use repurposed, second-life EV packs. The recipient will conduct a one-year technology demonstration at a facility in a disadvantaged community in San Joaquin County, California. 11. Evaluation of Bi-Directional Energy Transfer and Distributed Energy Resource Integration for Medium and Heavy-Duty Fleet Electrification (GFO-20-304). The purpose of this solicitation is to fund Technology Demonstration & Deployment research projects that evaluate resilience, renewable integration, and cost management use cases for medium- and heavy-duty (MDHD) battery electric vehicles (BEVs). Funding is available for projects that advance hardware or software tools for managed bidirectional energy transfer from electric school buses (Group 1); or
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advance hardware or software to integrate MDHD BEVs and charging equipment in a behind-the-meter distributed energy resource (DER) package that includes distributed generation, stationary storage, and an energy management system (Groups 2-3). (EPIC Funding) Contact: Elise Ersoy (Staff Presentation: 10 minutes) a. MOEV Inc. Proposed resolution approving Agreement EPC-20-038 with MOEV Inc. for a $3,319,387 grant to demonstrate an artificial intelligence based fleet charging management system with DERs including electric transit buses, charging stations, a battery energy storage system, and solar PV, and adopting staff’s determination that this action is exempt from CEQA. The demonstration will be used to evaluate the potential for the artificial intelligence charging management system to optimize the management of DERs to reduce costs, increase the use of renewable energy sources, and provide grid resilience. b. Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Proposed resolution approving Agreement EPC-20-040 with Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory for a $4,000,000 grant to design, construct, and study an electric school bus depot charging system, featuring a novel and efficient direct current-coupled topology with an integrated solar canopy and stationary storage, and adopting staff’s determination that this action is exempt from CEQA. Such a system caters to the scalability of EV charging depots because it requires no power from the utility and can also power a resilience hub. 12. Food Production Investment Program 2020 (GFO-20-307). The purpose of this solicitation is to fund energy technologies at California food processing facilities which reduce energy use and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. (FPIP funding) Contact: Cyrus Ghandi (Staff Presentation: 10 minutes) a. Blue Diamond Growers. Proposed resolution approving Agreement FPI-20-002 with Blue Diamond Growers for a $340,093 grant to fund the installation of an advanced, energy efficient air compressor system at the recipient's almond processing facility, and adopting staff's determination that this action is exempt from CEQA. The new system will include more efficient equipment and advanced controls resulting in reduced GHG emissions and electricity consumption. b. Pacific Coast Producers. Proposed resolution approving an Agreement FPI-20-003 with Pacific Coast Producers for a $138,110 grant to install an optimized compressed air system at the recipient's tomato processing facility, and adopting
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staff’s determination that this action is exempt from CEQA. Optimization will be achieved by installing a high-efficiency air compressor, air dryer, filters, variable frequency drives, and a larger air storage tank, which enables lower system pressure and requires less energy to maintain. This project will result in reduced electricity consumption, GHG emissions, and operating costs. c. Jessie Lord Bakery, LLC. Proposed resolution approving Agreement FPI-20-004 with Jessie Lord Bakery, LLC for a $5,494,374 grant to replace and retrofit inefficient equipment including refrigeration and hot water systems to reduce GHG emissions at the recipient's baked products facility, and adopting staff's determination that this action is exempt from CEQA. This project is expected to provide benefits to priority populations through criteria pollutant emission reductions. d. Baker Commodities, Inc. Proposed resolution approving Agreement FPI-20-005 with Baker Commodities, Inc. for a $857,350 grant to fund the installation of boilers and insulation at the recipient’s animal food production facility, and adopting staff’s determination that this action is exempt from CEQA. The project will replace existing boilers and add insulation to holding tanks used in the cooking process which will improve efficiency and reduce heat loss, natural gas use, and GHG emissions. The project is expected to benefit priority populations through criteria pollutant emission reductions. e. WWF Operating Company, LLC. Proposed resolution approving Agreement FPI- 20-006 with WWF Operating Company, LLC for a $283,500 grant to fund the installation of state-of-the-art steam traps at the recipient's dairy processing facility, and adopting staff's determination that this action is exempt from CEQA. The project will replace existing, inefficient steam traps with non-mechanical traps that will reduce steam loss, natural gas use, and GHG emissions. This project is expected to benefit priority populations through criteria pollutant emission reductions. f. Campbell Soup Supply Company L.LC. Proposed resolution approving Agreement FPI-20-007 with Campbell Soup Supply Company L.L.C. for a $899,588 grant to retrofit an existing double effect evaporator at the recipient's tomato processing facility, and adopting staff’s determination that this action is exempt from CEQA. This project will add a new evaporator vessel, pumps, modifications to existing structural platforms, vapor lines, condensate piping systems, and electrical and
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controls. The new high-efficiency system will support the company’s sustainability goals, reduce operating costs, improve energy efficiency, and reduce natural gas use and GHG emissions. g. E. & J. Gallo Winery. Proposed resolution approving Agreement FPI-20-008 with E. & J. Gallo Winery for a $769,861 grant to install a high-efficiency compressor system at its Livingston winery and a low-GWP low-charge ammonia refrigeration system at its St. Helena winery, and adopting staff's determination that this action is exempt from CEQA. This project will result in reduced electricity consumption, GHG emissions, and operating costs. 13. Local Building Energy Efficiency Standards Application (19-BSTD-06). Consideration and possible adoption of resolutions regarding three separate applications submitted by local jurisdictions for ordinances that contain building energy efficiency standards exceeding the energy efficiency requirements of the 2019 Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24, Part 6). Contact: Danuta Drozdowicz (Staff Presentation: 5 minutes) a. City of Piedmont. New ordinance that contains requirements that low-rise residential projects with a value over $25,000 include certain energy efficiency measures and that any newly constructed low-rise residential building be an all- electric building. b. City of Albany. New ordinance that contains requirements that newly constructed buildings meet or exceed specified Energy Design Rating or Compliance Margins. c. City of San Carlos. New ordinance that contains requirements for solar ready buildings and solar panel systems requirements for non-residential and new buildings, as well as requirements for all-electric newly constructed buildings with exceptions allowed for applications such as cooking and fireplaces. 14. Minutes. Possible approval of the April 14, 2021 business meeting minutes. 15. Lead Commissioner or Presiding Member Reports. A lead commissioner on a policy matter and a presiding member on a delegated committee may report to the CEC on relevant matters and discussion may follow.
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16. Executive Director’s Report. 17. Public Advisor's Report. 18. Public Comment. Pursuant to California Code of Regulations Title 20 section 1104(e), any person may make oral comment on any agenda item. To ensure the orderly conduct of business, comments will be limited to three minutes or less per person and one representative per organization. The CEC notes that any person wishing to comment on non-voting items such as information items or reports shall provide comments during this period. 19. Chief Counsel's Report. a. Pursuant to Government Code section 11126, subdivision (e), the CEC may adjourn to closed session with its legal counsel to discuss any of the following matters to which CEC is a party: i. In the Matter of U.S. Department of Energy (High Level Waste Repository), (Atomic Safety Licensing Board, CAB-04, 63-001-HLW); State of California v. United States Department of Energy (9th Cir. Docket No. 09-71014). ii. Communities for a Better Environment and Center for Biological Diversity v. Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission, and California State Controller (Alameda County Superior Court, Case No. RG13681262, Court of Appeal, First Appellate District, Division Four, Case No. A157299). iii. State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission v. Electricore, Inc. and ZeroTruck (Sacramento County Superior Court, Case No. 34-2016-00204586-CU-BC-GDS). iv. State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission v. HyGen Industries, Inc (Sacramento County Superior Court, Case No. 34- 2019-00252543-CU-BC-GDS). v. Olson-Ecologic Testing Laboratories, LLC v. CEC. (Orange County Superior Court, Case No. 30-2019-01115513-CU-BC-CJC). vi. Interlink Products International, Inc. v. Xavier Becerra, Drew Bohan, Melissa Rae King (United States District Court for the Eastern District of California, Case No. 2:20-cv-02283).
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vii. Southern California Gas Company v. California State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission (Sacramento County Superior Court, Case No. 34-2021-80003576-CU-WM-GDS). b. Pursuant to Government Code sections 11126, subdivisions (a) and (e), the CEC may also discuss any judicial or administrative proceeding that was formally initiated after this agenda was published; or determine whether facts and circumstances exist that warrant the initiation of litigation, or that constitute a significant exposure to litigation against the CEC, which might include personnel matters.
Remote Attendance Instructions.
Zoom: Click the address below to view and listen via Zoom. Public comments cannot be made via Zoom. https://energy.zoom.us/j/93869230237?pwd=Zm96c09ULzdXTjd4eldtUXdnUGErdz09. Zoom may also be accessed at https://zoom.us/join. To join, enter the meeting ID 938- 6923-0237 and the password mtg@10am. To listen via Zoom, dial (669) 900-6833 or (888) 475-4499 (toll free) and enter meeting ID 938-69230237. For Zoom technical support dial (888) 799-9666 ext. 2, or contact the CEC’s Public Advisor’s Office for help at [email protected] or (800) 822-6228. Verizon: To participate by telephone and provide public comment, call the CEC’s Verizon line at (888) 823-5065 on February 10, 2021, after 9:50 a.m. (Pacific Time). Enter the passcode business meeting. To make public comment about a specific item, provide your name, affiliation if any, and the item number to the operator. Once connected, press *0 for help or to speak with the operator. The operator will open your line when it is your turn to speak. Restate and spell your name for the record. The operator will mute your line when you are finished commenting. To avoid audio feedback, mute Zoom or do not join Zoom when calling via Verizon. Public Advisor Assistance. Direct questions about how to participate in the business meeting or to request interpreting services or other reasonable accommodations to the Public Advisor’s Office at [email protected], by phone at (916) 654-4489 or toll free at (800) 822-6228. Requests for interpreting services and reasonable accommodations should be made at least five days in advance. The Public Advisor may upon the request of public participants who may be absent from the CEC’s place of business or during the business meeting when a matter of interest to them is being considered, neutrally and publicly relate those participants’ points to the CEC on behalf
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of members of the public. If you are interested in this service, please email concise comments, specifying your main points, before the start of the business meeting to the Public Advisor’s Office. Comments submitted after the business meeting starts will be filed in the business meeting docket. The CEC will work diligently to accommodate all requests. Direct media inquiries to (916) 654-4989 or [email protected]. Subscribe to Electronic Mail Lists at https://www.energy.ca.gov/proceedings/business-meetings to have the business meeting agenda emailed to you. Enter your contact information under “Subscribe.” Adjournment. Depending on time and the orderly management of proceedings, the CEC may adjourn, recess or postpone any noticed hearing or meeting to be continued the next day, another specific date or time, or the next business meeting. Any such adjournment will be noticed at the time the order of adjournment is made. (Government Code sections 11128.5, 11129)
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Section 15 COMMENTS FROM THE COUNCIL
Section 16 REPORTS
City Manager’s Report Commissions and Committee Reports Minutes from JPAs and Reports May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 134 ______City Manager’s Report for May, 2021 City Council Meeting
CITY MANAGER (Reporting April 14, 2021 – May 13, 2021) • Finance committee: We have met with finance committee several times and are hoping to receive our second check of the year from the county at the end of May. We are also waiting for guidance from the state as to what we may be able to receive from the Recovery Act. Remember they said a couple of months ago that the city would be entitled to receive a certain amount, but they have not given us the rules as to how that might be approved. Our finance director and I have spent time on the budget and will be ready to meet with Finance committee as soon as we receive information from County. Both Donna and I will attend webinars designed to help us recoup funding that we have lost because of the covid-19 pandemic. • Emergency Covid-19: Forty-five new cases of COVID-19 were reported in Humboldt County today, the highest single-day report since January 28. The CDC today released “Interim Public Health Recommendations for Fully Vaccinated Individuals.” The new guidance states, in part, that fully vaccinated people no longer need to wear a mask in any setting, except “where required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules, and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance.” This exception applies to California, because, as of now, the state requires masks to be worn in crowded outdoor events and in all indoor public settings. Changes to these state requirements will be shared as they are updated. For the most recent COVID-19 information, visit cdc.gov or cdph.ca.gov. Local information is available at humboldtgov.org or by contacting [email protected] or calling 707-441-5000. Sign up for COVID-19 vaccination: MyTurn.ca.gov Check for vaccine availability at a local pharmacy: Vaccines.gov Local COVID-19 vaccine information: humboldtgov.org/VaccineInfo Humboldt County COVID-19 Data Dashboard: humboldtgov.org/Dashboard • Parsac: Numerous calls related to covid-19 guidance on employee related rules and regulations. Requested and received endorsements and insurance as a requirement for the California Sewer Replacement Grant. We have a number of Parsac and CIRA meetings coming up as we end the Parsac organization and begin the combination of Parsac and Remif as CIRA. I will attend the Executive Director meeting on May 26th. • California Sewer Replacement Grant: This as one of the last prerequisites for the county to approve the project funding and allow us to start the engineering of the sewer collection system on California Street. Several years ago, we replaced about 500’ of California Street as an emergency project when it was concluded that the ditch for drainage was entering our collection system under the ditch and ending up at our wastewater facility. Knowing that we still had 1,600’ left to do on California Street we applied and were successful in getting a grant for the remainder and were awarded $326,000 dollars to complete the replacement and have till 2023 to accomplish the task. Public Works Supervisor Coppini and I have had several meetings to discuss raising the lagoon by a couple feet to further increase the ability of our lagoon’s capacity and reduce the chance of overflow during severe rain events. Although the last few years we have not had serious rain events and seem to be in a draught cycle, we are aware that at some point we will get back to weather as usual and that the raising of the dikes could give us a day or two more protection from possible overflowing our lagoon and flooding surrounding area which would lead to significant fines from Regional Water Quality Control Board. We have had a number of conversations and discussions with RWQCB representatives that have already approved a project to accomplish this strategy and May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 135 ______so are pretty confident that we will be able to get it approved again. • Public Works: Concentrating on our Springtime agenda as to operation and maintenance. Public Works supervisor Steve Coppini and I are meeting regularly and putting together schedules for street sweeping, regular maintenance on each or our properties, training opportunities by Parsac and soon CIRA. These training webinars are designed to reduce accidents and identify risk that have been shown to reduce exposure to lawsuits and claims and protect our citizen’s and employees, and reduce our overall costs because we pay more for our claim history. • Engineer interaction: We continue to work with our City Engineer to explore drainage improvements with an emphasis on easements and a strategy on drainage flow to Salt River through City and County properties. The engineer and I met with a property owner in a southern part of town where the City has no easements, but we have reported drainage problems by a number of property owners to see if we can possibly get an easement that would allow the city to inspect and monitor drainage flow through the neighborhood and try to alleviate flooding. We still need to talk to a few neighbors, but this strategy of pursuing easements where the drainage committee has identified a need has been received well. Our engineer did some surveying to help in the designing of a drainage system that would help the neighborhood. I met with three property owners last week in the Shamsi Court, A Street, and Milky Way drainage area and we discussed drainage easements and once again we may be able to come up with an easement that will help drainage flow through that area better and send it out by Ferndale housing and out to 5th Street, which then flows west to the outskirts of town and then down Rasmussen Lane. Remember that this drainage includes Ocean Ave. Shaw by the Elementary School, Shaw Lane and pastureland on the west side of town to Ferndale Housing which then flows west to Rasmussen and on to Salt River. • Weekly training bulletin from ERMAnet. This is an online training program sponsored by our Risk Management Authority. • Employee meetings and personnel issues. Although this is not something I report on, know that it is an important part of managing the City, and I donate a significant portion of my day in interacting with our employees and almost all of our workload and accomplishments are a derivative of the collaboration between more than one person. I am proud of the commitment and responsibility that our employees show every day in service given for the citizens of this town. • Numerous one-on-one meetings and discussions and updates with council members regarding current issues and projects. Continuing outreach program with Council to give institutional background on City projects, policies and programs. Each council member has individual items of interest and we try to fill in as much information as we can so that each council member feels like they have a strong base of understanding of the history of City policies so they can make informed decisions in the future. We try to recommend that council members listen to community members and decide whether they should direct citizen to staff or if they should recommend to city manager to put an issue in front of the council at a regular or special meeting so that the whole body can discuss the issue. Each council member has earned the right to weigh in on issues and may bring important and convincing information to the discussion that needs to be included in the deliberation process. This process is also designed for a council member to have an ability to have an open mind before what could be a vote of the council. Recommending that council members participate in AB1234, Ethic training, Brown Act protocol, and harassment trainings through online training webinars. City Clerk will be sending out information to help facilitate. AB 1234 purpose is to alert local officials to the extensive array of laws that apply to public service, as well as the unique ethical obligations public officials have. We have given each council member a packet or booklet that includes the Brown Act that informs the council of the May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 136 ______understanding that “the people of this State do not yield their sovereignty to the agencies which serve them”. • Climate Action Plan- We are in the final stages of the Climate Action Plan (CAP). Our planner and I have been attending and having conversations with county representatives developing and participating in a state mandated Climate Action Plan. This started before the pandemic and so all of our timelines for this project have been lengthened but is still required by the state. We have agreed to join this plan and I will attend and participate in monthly meetings to develop this plan as our part in the funding requirements. The plan will be focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030. We have a near completed list of GHG reduction policies, and completed final drafts of the inventories and forecasts. Overall, we hope to have a completed draft by the end of this year. We’re preparing a list of around 50 detailed measures informed largely by one-on-one meetings with city staff and the discussions we’ve had as a group. Many of these draft measures include a GHG reduction potential, cost/savings analysis and implementation strategy. Once the committee settles on a plan, we will bring it to the council for approval. We have been working on this for more than two and half years and it has been a group effort of every city with the county as lead agency and RCEA as lead contractor helping with the Green House Emissions information. Although we normally meet monthly, we have interacted more in the last few months to try and have consensus on as much as possible knowing that each entity is unique and will have many actions and policy that only work with that City but have a core that is built off of the County’s CAP. There was an overview of the draft workbooks that everyone provided and all cities were having trouble meeting the estimated reduction targets. They are going to revise the targets and update some of the draft measures so they are a little easier to understand and estimate. A draft CAP was sent out. The group also discussed when we should be taking the draft measures to our city councils. Since some items are still being updated it will likely be a couple of months still. HCAOG is also still looking at different options for CEQA documentation. The county counsel and the individual City councils are now working on the CEQA analysis and they probably will not complete this for a month or so. We will meet to discuss this and then possibly give a presentation to each entity where the cities will likely be asked to approve of their portion while waiting for the BOS to approve before we move forward. We will have an update by Connor McGuigan as a presentation update at our next council meeting. • Undergrounding Project: PG&E is working on the engineering of the Francis Street Rule 20a project. This may take a year or so for them to work through and they will be giving updates as they go through the process. I check in every month. Lizette Burtis the PG&E representative assured me that we are moving the Francis street project forward. • We received approval of the California Street sewer collection system grant (Prop 1: $326,000) from the state and county and are signing documents moving forward. Everything is going well, but there have been numerous interactions with the county that is overseeing our project. I have asked for advanced payment on our project so that we do not have to fund the project while we wait for reimbursement, which may be as much as three months. We were just approved for $163,000 and can start the engineering, planning, CEQA, and permitting portion of the project. The end date of the construction grant is in late 2023. As was the case in the emergency replacement of 500’ back in late 2017. The remaining collection system is probably leaking significantly as it is some of our oldest collection system made with clay pipe. This will be one of our main focuses and will be concentrating on the engineering and planning for the next year or so and are focused on the project next. • Numerous discussions with Tesla representative and Mike Avcollie from RCEA regarding the opportunity to get a backup system for our wastewater facility that can also be used to lower our energy costs. This may increase our awareness as to how we can create a larger May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 137 ______community wide micro-grid that we can use during future outages. On Friday September 18th the Tesla Team conducted a site survey for the new battery system at the Wastewater Facility. They have already started work and designing on this project. Looking to fit an array of solar panels at the police station within the parameters of what the council approved in August. Numerous conversations with tesla representative and we are discussing permitting and construction to start a couple of weeks ago. The solar panel part of the energy project will be applied to the roof of the wastewater facility and then to the new Tesla battery panel. We will also augment the project by putting solar panels on the police station under the same agreement without an increase in the loan amount. The CEC California Energy Commission voted to approve the 1% loan for solar panels at the Wastewater facility and the roof mounted array at the police station. We will now continue the process to construct the array now. The Police solar will not be including the Tesla battery portion yet, but may in the future. • Still negotiating with Silva’s on the property to add to Russ Park. We have a number of items to check off before we move forward on the completion of purchasing the property. I am applying for a grant through a local non-profit that will cover about half of the remaining costs. We have both approved an agreement, and we will have 90 days to do our due diligence, and CEQA which might add more time. Because this is a real estate transaction, we may have closed sessions to discuss the process with our attorney. • Drainage Meetings: Our last meeting was productive and our focus was on easements and update of our Master Drainage Plan. I think we have a great group and believe that we are going to accomplish a lot. South of Schley Street we are having some drainage problems at Phoebe Barton’s and neighboring residences and are discussing problem with engineer and he is assessing situation. During the last month some drainage committee members met with me at Phoebe’s property and monitored the problem. The engineer and I met with property owners to discuss a possible easement that after the problem was resolved would allow the city to fold it into our inspection and maintenance of the whole system. • Numerous meetings on several Prop 68 potential grants and a per capita grant for recreational improvements. Met with some Fair Association, Chamber and grant staff to discuss a possible collaboration on a grant that would renovate and improve the RV Park in a project that would increase TOT, enhance Fairgrounds and give added revenue to Fair and increase revenue to Chamber through their share of TOT from City. This project, I believe, would add to the cooperation and collaboration of these Ferndale entities and would also include the County in the effort. We feel that this grant application may have a strong completive chance of success. I have spoke with our Supervisor Rex Bohn in supporting a solution to our drainage problems that need collaboration since a significant amount of our drainage goes from the City to the Fairgrounds and then into the County before it finally enters the Salt River. • Numerous conversations with Chairmen of the Russ Park volunteers, who do a great job maintaining Russ Park. Recently it was reported that there was an increase in people using the park for hiking and stated concerns on a need for bathroom services which we are not set up for. I discussed this with mayor and public works supervisor. We immediately started monitoring and inspecting this area in the mornings, Monday thru Friday, and are now keeping a record of any evidence of this being a problem. I expect this to be a topic in our budget should the council think a bathroom facility is warranted. In the meantime, we are searching for signage which would notify hikers that we have public bathroom facilities downtown and in Fireman’s Park. Both of these facilities are only minutes away and as the park is extensive, and it has numerous trails of various length, it is a good idea to refresh yourself before your hike to avoid awkward situations, and to reduce the instances of these mishaps. We have completed the ground leveling construction and the B&B has been placed May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 138 ______at the primary entrance to Russ Park. We were able to complete this at about half the cost as were original estimates and seems to be a good addition to the Russ Park experience and want to thank everyone that has made this happen. We will monitor this and hope it has positive feedback from the people that visit our world renown park. • Finance and Covid-19: Donna and I spend a significant amount of time on Covid-19 and trying to stretch our funds. We are hopeful that we will be able to get reimbursed for all that we can without compromising our ability to continue to stay independent from onerous strings that the state may desire to attach to the funding that takes away decision making processes and authority as to our development in the future.
Staff Reporting April 1-30, 2021
CITY CLERK ACTIVITY Meetings • Meetings with City Manager regarding work activities and council agenda. • Attended: o City Council Regular Meeting 04/21/2021 o Planning Commission Meeting 04/07/2021 o Drainage Committee Meeting 04/01/2021 • Wrote agenda items and compiled packets for: o Regular City Council Meeting 04/21/2021 o Planning Commission Meeting 04/07/2021 o Drainage Committee 04/01/2021 o Began agenda compilation for City Council Meeting 05/19/2021 • Transcribed, drafted meeting minutes and uploaded meeting videos for all above listed meetings • Posted all meeting agendas and public notices on the City Hall and Post Office bulletin boards, and on the City Website. • Uploaded meeting packets to City Website. • Correspondence with City Planner and Engineer regarding projects • Had monthly performance review with City Manager Projects • Assisted the public via telephone and email, answering questions and information requests. • On-going communications with contract Engineers and City Planner about agenda items before the City Council, Planning Commission, and Drainage Meetings. • Processed Business License Renewals and Dog License Renewals. • Calculated and collected fees for building permits and sent applications to Arnie to be checked • Numerous call Building Inspector to review plans and finals on projects • Sent and received emails daily. • Pick up and distribute City correspondence. • Organized and filed paperwork. • Filed approved Minutes • Inventoried and ordered office supplies • Processed checks, created revenue spreadsheet and deposit checks into the bank. • Responded to Public Records Act requests. • Maintained minute, resolution, ordinance and agenda binders. May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 139 ______• Contacted Mayor re: upcoming agenda • Read weekly ERMA bulletins • Sent Building Permit reports to Assessor’s office and Construction Industry Research Board.
FINANCE OFFICER ACTIVITY Tasks: • Meetings with City Manager – re: office issues and financial reports • Assisted City Manager with HR/personnel issues and filings • Processed Payroll/Payroll Tax Payments • Processed Accounts Payable • Processed Accounts Receivables • Reviewed ERMA and HR bulletins • Assisted at the front desk and answered phones
CITY PLANNER ACTIVITY: General Planning Services Task 1 Response to Public Request for Info ● Community inquiry– responded to zoning requirement inquiries as needed. Task 2 CEQA Compliance ● Received Caltrans comment and finalized Citywide Sewer Replacement Project Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaration. Task 3 Community Planning – Reporting, Transportation Planning, Other Planning Activities ● Coordinated City planning activities including updating tracking sheets for planner activities, funding mechanisms, and applications. ● Coordinated with City Manager and regulatory agencies to request Francis Creek vegetation maintenance permit extensions. Task 4 Meetings & Hearings, and Materials: ● Planning Commission – Prepared for and attended April 7 Commission meeting ● City Council – prepared Planner activities staff report including SB2 grant activities ● City Manager & City Clerk – meetings, calls, emails, research. ● Drainage Committee – Reviewed agenda packet. ● Humboldt County Climate Action Plan – participated in April 19th CAP meeting; reviewed draft CAP. Task 5 GIS Mapping – prepared draft land use map and reviewed total commercial areas. Task 6 Grant Writing/Funding Coordination – coordinated grant/funding programs including Local Roadway Safety Plan (LRSP), Prop 68 Per Capita, SB 1, SB 2, and others. SB 2 Grant Projects ● Land Use Element Update – Prepared for and presented land use element overview and housing considerations at April 7th PC meeting. Continued to draft document sections. ● CEQA Compliance – Worked on updates to Safety Plan based on current state regulations. Local Roadway Safety Plan • Began drafting document sections; coordinated potential outreach efforts. Reimbursable Fees ● None
May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 140 ______CITY ENGINEER ACTIVITY General City Engineering Services: • Phone calls / emails with the City Manager regarding various City items. • Attend Drainage Committee Meeting. • Meet with City Manager to review drainage issue at Grant & Schley. • Meet with City Manager to look at Ferndale Fairground Sewer. • Answer questions from City Clerk. Reimbursable Project Services: • Nunes Grading Permit – Grant Street o No Update • Adams Minor Subdivision – Fifth Street o Awaiting signed Improvement Plans to be submitted from the Applicant. • Frink LLA2005 – A St. o Awaiting paperwork from Applicant to Finalize LLA.
WASTEWATER OPERATIONS • Monthly samples prepared and sent to North Coast Labs • Operators perform lab tests daily to measure efficiency of plant • Set up waste hauler permit for National Parks possibly dumping in retention pond • Monthly eSMR (electronic State Monthly Report) prepared and submitted • Pull motor from blower 3 and had it rebuilt, reinstalled • Weed eat old site • Met with city manager, engineer at fairgrounds about adding septic to RV park • Monthly no spill verification report completed on CIWQS website • Tesla project began with pouring of pad on corner of filter building • Front gate chain oiled each Monday • Replace lamps on Bank A • Inspect manholes throughout town weekly • Backup at Fireman’s Park cleared • Weekly maintenance performed on UV banks • Add cleanout on Craig St. main line for camera access. Videoed the line, looks like standard INI through old clay pipe • Dewater for total of 8 hours. Sludge dried at old site • Cleared roots from lateral on Main St. causing backups • Operators cleaned walls and catwalk • Add lyme to sludge to help keep aroma in check • Burn brush at old site • Cleaned nozzles on disc filters • Last day of creek discharge 4/30 • Removal of duck weed from clarifiers on weekly basis • Billed RotoRooter, Taylor Enterprises, Steve’s Septic and Wyckoff a total of $6,753 for the month of March. 29 total dumps for total of 60,200 gallons. • Total flow through the plant in April was 8.2 MGD. Of that, .21 MGD was pumped to retention pond. Average discharge to Salt River was ..258 MGD.
May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 141 ______PUBLIC WORKS • Continued with monthly and daily duties. Such as, cleaning and maintenance of city's bathrooms, mowing of city's owned properties, cleaning of storm drains, keeping streets clear of debris and the maintenance of city's facilities. • Placed bathroom supply order with Mende's supply. • Filled in hole where the baseball field flag poles stood. • Removed grass and weeds in front of children’s center and installed weed fabric and gravel. • Assisted cemetery crew on removing trees on the side of Bluff St. • Spoke with local citizen about having a outdoor concert at Fireman’s park on May 2nd and if we could help with some extension cords and access to the breaker box panels. • Local Boy Scout has started his Eagle Scout project with installing and building a fence behind Scout Hall. He was given project approval by CM and Public Works Dir. • Patched pot holes and back bladed in asphalt on the Wildcat. • Did oil changes on the Public Works Utility truck and the dump truck. • Clean curbs and swept all of Main St. • Repaired urinal valve at park bathrooms. • Continue with weekly safety meeting with PW Dir.
POLICE DEPARTMENT Staff continues to monitor and engage the community regarding the City’s and County’s response to COVID-19 (Orange Tier). All department staff have been vaccinated for COVID-19 with the exception of one officer that declined.
Chief Sligh attended the first week of a three-part POST Management Course in Sacramento.
The Watchguard Body Cameras have arrived and are being used.
Officer Gardner is expected to complete the Field Training Program in the end May.
Police Statistics – April 2021
SERIOUS CRIMES Number Cleared Homicide 0 Rape (Attempted) 0 Robbery 0 Larceny 0 Assault 2 1 Burglary 1 Vehicle Theft 0
TOTAL 3 SECONDARY CRIMES 13 Calls for Service 325 Reports Written 16
May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 142 ______
Traffic Citations 34 Other Citations 0 Parking Citations 1 Warnings 57 ARRESTS 9 AGENCY ASSISTS 7 TRAFFIC COLLISIONS 0
May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 143 ______
C i t y o f F e r nda l e , H um bo l d t C o u nt y , C a l i f o r n i a U S A Minutes for Planning Commission Meeting of April 7, 2021
Call to Order —Chair Jerry Rocha called the Planning Commission Meeting to order at 7:00 pm. Commissioners Jorgen von Frausing-Borch, Laura Olson, Stuart Altschuler, and Josh Smith were present along with City Planners Vanessa Blodgett and Krystle Heaney. Those in attendance pledged allegiance to the flag. 2.0 Ceremonial – None 3.0 Modifications to the Agenda – None
4.0 Approval of Previous Minutes – Motion: To approve the minutes of the January 6, 2021 Regular Planning Commission Meeting. (von Frausing-Borch/Altschuler) Unanimous
5.0 Public Comment- None 6.0 Public Hearing
7.0 Business 7.1 Update on Land Use Element: City Planner Vanessa Blodgett presented a PowerPoint Presentation on the update. Blodgett explained that if the commissioners would like to participate in a live polling during the presentation, they would be able to do so and gave directions on the process. Blodgett gave an overview of the SB2 funding and the five tasks that were approved for the $160,000 awarded funds. Blodgett also went over population, current housing mix and RHNA numbers. Blodgett added that the Ferndale housing market is one of the highest in the county as of now due to limited housing market. Blodgett also explained the current land use in Ferndale and proposed new additions that may be included in the update including Light Industrial, Natural Resource, and Mixed Commercial. Blodgett explained the “Missing Middle” Housing that refers to small to medium multi family residential developments. Commissioner von Frausing-Borch questioned the land use requirements and what that would mean for landowners and complying with the development standards. Blodgett started the live polling. The commissioners thanked the planners for the live polling and stated it was an excellent idea. Planner Krystle Heaney went over the results from the public survey that went out at the beginning of January. Heaney stated the most common themes were to maintain the small-town feel, maintain the historical, agricultural and cultural resources, community events, safety for pedestrians and bicyclists, senior housing and to support the schools. Heaney also went over residency, age and development. Heaney included the next steps in the update process. Commissioner Olson questioned if future meeting will be held via zoom or if in person meetings will be considered. Blodgett explained the possibility of having some pop-up events where people may be able to come and look at maps and offer input. Chair Rocha questioned the Zoning Code updates. May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 144 ______
7.2 Building and Land Use January 1, 2021 – March 31, 2021 – Chair Rocha commented on the Tesla Battery install at the Waste Water Treatment Plant. Chair Rocha also commented on the Solar Install.
7.3 Design Review Minutes: Commissioner von Frausing-Borch commented on a window install.
8.0 Correspondence- None
9.0 Commissioner Comments- None
10.0 Staff Comments - None
Meeting Adjourned at 8:05 pm
Respectfully Submitted
Kristene Hall City Clerk
May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 145 ______
MINUTES CITY OF FERNDALE - HUMBOLDT COUNTY U.S.A. DRAINAGE COMMITTEE MEETING April 1, 2021 Chair Tom Stephens opened the meeting at 2:35 pm. Those present were Leonard Lund, Jeff Farley, Wayne Ambrosini, Bill Becker, and Jim Bass along with City Staff: City Manager Jay Parrish, City Engineer Brian Ontiveros, and City Clerk Kristene Hall. There were no modifications to the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: MOTION to approve the March 4, 2021 Drainage Meeting Minutes. (Becker/Lund) Unanimous PUBLIC COMMENT: No Comment BUSINESS Update on Fern Ave/Francis Creek Bank Stabilization: Chair Stephens stated he and Jay were still had not been able to meet with the grant writer on the Fern Ave Bank stabilization. Stephens also explained that the committee had previously discussed obtaining drainage easements, but after discussions, easements should only be obtained when needed for grants. City Manager Parrish stated they had discussed the need for easements for the assistance to receive grants but after discussions with the City Attorney, the city would not want to take on the possible liability of projects on private properties. Stephens stated that there are grants available that for property owners not just the city. Committee Member Sweeney commented that it was his understanding that it is property owner’s responsibility to stabilize the bank as well as the cost of conceptual engineering, grant proposals and any permitting. The committee discussed different properties and property owners that had performed some kind of stabilization. Schley Ave & Grant Ave Flooding Update: City Manager Parrish stated he and the city Engineer had met with a property owner in that area to discuss the issue. Parrish added this is a neighborhood issue, not just an individual problem. The committee spoke on some grading that was done on a property in the area and the possible effects if had on this increased flooding. City Engineer Ontiveros stated it was difficult to say where the water is coming from and why the flooding has increased. Ontiveros stated a ground survey would be helpful to see the best course of action to help with the problem. The committee talked about possible remediations and who would be responsible for the cost. Ontiveros stated he would be looking at the hydrology and reports that were done by a property owner who did a recent subdivision done in the area to see if there is any information in there that will assist in gathering information. Parrish asked City Engineer Ontiveros if it would be possible to get together with the five or six effected property owners and start finding remedies to the flooding problem. Ontiveros stated they would need to get property owner permission to use survey equipment May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 146 ______
and obtain grades, but that should not be a problem. Parrish stated that the city had received a grant for $65,000 that will help with the Drainage Master Plan update. Update on Drainage Master Plan: Chair Stephens questioned Ontiveros on if he had estimates on any of the projects. Ontiveros stated that they had not gotten some data needed due to the weather, but once they were able to get the data then they should be able to get started on the estimates. Committee members discussed timeline on projects. CORRESPONDENCE: None COMMENTS: Chair Stephens stated it was previously discussed having a study session on the 5th St developments and East Side Drainage. Parrish stated this would be done by Planwest in regards to the Land Use element update. Parrish added that the study session may involve Council, Planning Commission and Drainage Committee. Chair Tom Stephens adjourned the meeting at 3:20pm.
Respectfully submitted
Kristene Hall City Clerk
May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 147 ______Redwood______Coast Energy Authority______633 3rd Street, Eureka, CA 95501 Phone: (707) 269-1700 Toll-Free (800) 931-7232 Fax: (707) 269-1777 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.redwoodenergy.org
BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING DRAFT MINUTES
March 25, 2021 -Thursday, 3:30 p.m.
Notice of this meeting was posted on March 22, 2021. Chair Sheri Woo called a regular meeting of the Board of Directors of the Redwood Coast Energy Authority to order on the above date at 3:35 p.m., stating that the teleconference meeting was being conducted pursuant to Brown Act waivers included in Governor Newsom’s COVID-19 State of Emergency Executive Order N-29-20 of March 17, 2020, and the Humboldt County Health Officer’s March 30, 2020, Shelter-in-Place Order. Executive Director Marshall stated that the posted agenda contained public teleconference meeting participation instructions.
PRESENT: Stephen Avis, Scott Bauer, Chris Curran, Dave Grover, Mike Losey, Sarah Schaefer, Frank Wilson, Mike Wilson, Sheri Woo. ABSENT: None. STAFF AND OTHERS PRESENT: Business Planning and Finance Director Lori Biondini; General Counsel Nancy Diamond; Power Resources Director Richard Engel; RCEA Consultant Michael Furniss, Community Advisory Committee Member Kit Mann, Executive Director Matthew Marshall; Community Strategies Manager Nancy Stephenson; Clerk of the Board Lori Taketa.
REPORTS FROM MEMBER ENTITIES
Director Mike Wilson reported that the County is considering dig once policies requiring conduit installation for future electric vehicle infrastructure, broadband and telecommunications service expansion when digging up roads within unincorporated Humboldt County. The policy would be geared toward encouraging EV charging infrastructure in public rights of way where there may not be onsite parking.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
There were no comments on any non-agenda item in response to Chair Woo’s call for public comments. Chair Woo closed the public comment period.
CONSENT CALENDAR
3.1 Approve Minutes of February 25, 2021, Board Meeting. 3.2 Approve Disbursements Report. 3.3 Accept Financial Reports. 3.4 Approve Professional Services Agreement with Calpine Energy Solutions LLC and Authorize the Executive Director to Execute the Agreement and All Associated Documents as Necessary, Contingent on Final Review and Approval by RCEA Legal Counsel.
May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 148 RCEA March 25, 2021, Board of Directors Meeting DRAFT Minutes ______Page 2
Director Curran requested that item 3.4 be removed from the consent calendar. Chair Woo invited public comment. No member of the public asked to speak. Chair Woo closed the public comment period.
M/S: Grover, Avis: Approve all consent calendar items except 3.4.
The motion passed with a unanimous roll call vote. Ayes: Avis, Bauer, Curran, Grover, Losey, Schaefer, F. Wilson, M. Wilson, Woo. Noes: None. Absent: None.
ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR
Director Curran thanked staff for saving $145,000 annually and moving the call center back to Humboldt County, adding that the community will appreciate having someone local to speak with when calling RCEA with bill questions.
M/S: Avis, Grover: Approve consent calendar item 3.4.
The motion passed with a unanimous roll call vote. Ayes: Avis, Bauer, Curran, Grover, Losey, Schaefer, F. Wilson, M. Wilson, Woo. Noes: None. Absent: None.
Chair Woo stated that there was neither old nor new CCE business to conduct at this meeting.
NEW BUSINESS
8.1. Biomass Analysis
Power Resources Director Richard Engel explained that the Board authorized staff to negotiate a contract extension with Humboldt Sawmill Company (HSC) to comply with long- term procurement requirements and to attempt to obtain more favorable prices. To prepare the Board for contract consideration, staff provided an overview of biomass energy in RCEA’s Community Choice Energy program, including public engagement and research efforts.
RCEA Consultant Michael Furniss described the County’s remaining biomass facilities, biomass’ role as a bridge solution providing baseload power until enough dispatchable non- emitting power sources, storage and grid solutions are built and online to address solar and wind intermittency, and the general decline of biomass power in the United States. Biomass is considered to be a climate solution according to state renewable classifications, is Humboldt County’s only renewable local power source currently and there is a general desire not to export well-paying local power jobs out of the County.
The difficulty of establishing biomass energy’s carbon neutrality was discussed and comparisons to fossil fuel’s nonbiogenic carbon dioxide production were made. While biomass’ substitution for fossil fuels can be beneficial, its particulate emissions’ negative health impacts are problematic. The HSC plant’s location in the narrow and windy Scotia/Rio Dell river canyon helps move the polluted air away from populated areas. While Scotia residents have not complained about the smoke, no good human exposure monitoring exists. HSC’s biomass plant consumes over 50 truckloads of sawmill residue per day, leaving another 80 loads per day of local residue that is sent to an Anderson power plant or May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 149 RCEA March 25, 2021, Board of Directors Meeting DRAFT Minutes ______Page 3
otherwise disposed of. Global warming and local air pollution effects of past open burning practices were described. Humboldt County, 70% of which is forested, is California’s top forest-product producer. An equivalent of 3.8 billion tons of CO2 are stored in the county’s forests. Biomass was described as a potentially appropriate energy source for this bioregion, comparable to solar in California’s deserts and geothermal in Sonoma County.
Potential alternative mill residue uses were described, including compost, biochar and nano cellulose. Developing economically viable alternative uses for the county’s mill waste could sequester several hundred tons of carbon per year.
Community Advisory Committee (CAC) member Kit Mann presented a report by the CAC Alternative Biomass Uses Subcommittee which was formed after hearing Humboldt State University graduating engineering students report their research results on the subject. The subcommittee determined that it is appropriate for RCEA to investigate non-power uses of biomass as RCEA is working with the County on the regional climate action plan which involves non-energy measures and finding alternative biomass uses is listed as a strategy in the agency’s RePower strategic plan. Also, addressing climate change is the overarching goal of RCEA’s mission. The subcommittee recommended addressing both mill waste and in- forest slash because of the need to reduce extreme wildfire hazards. The subcommittee focused on biochar and nano cellulose as options offering the best greenhouse gas reduction possibilities and the capability of handling the volume of waste generated. The group requested guidance on next steps for the subcommittee and for RCEA in the sphere of alternative biomass use.
Chair Woo invited public comment.
Member of the public Dan Chandler opposed a 10-year HSC contract, proposed meeting SB 350 requirements with out-of-county solar while waiting for offshore wind and supported developing alternative biomass uses. Mr. Chandler stated he was heartened by people’s realization of the drastic and immediate changes that need to be made to avoid exceeding a 1.5 degree Centigrade temperature rise, and reiterated the need to cut emissions by 55% in the next 10 years.
Member of the public Nancy Ihara thanked the Board for their interest in alternative biomass uses, opposed the 10-year HSC contract as it would be an example of non-adaptive management and agreed with Mr. Furniss that biomass is not a permanent energy solution. Ms. Ihara supported investigating alternative biomass uses.
Member of the public Dr. Wendy Ring stated the need to prioritize clean over local energy production due to the urgent need for climate action. Alternative biomass use development will require planning and investment and Dr. Ring stated that the waste generator should bear some of the cost. RCEA needs to set a sunset date for local biomass support to incentivize HSC to begin planning. Dr. Ring asked the Board not to dismiss compost as an alternative use, citing a Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory report finding that all natural lands must be employed to draw down carbon, and access to woody mill waste is needed to create cheap compost for application at a massive scale to all agricultural land across the state.
Member of the public Martha Walden opposed a 10-year HSC contract and stated that climate goals will best be served through non-energy uses of mill waste such as composting, May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 150 RCEA March 25, 2021, Board of Directors Meeting DRAFT Minutes ______Page 4
biochar and other options. Ms. Walden supported RCEA studying and developing alternative biomass uses and planning to sunset biomass energy. Chair Woo closed the public comment period.
The directors discussed the following: • There is urgency from a climate perspective to pursue demonstration biochar, nano cellulose and compost projects. • RCEA should partner with the private sector, the forest products industry, government agencies, Humboldt State University and other CCAs on alternative biomass uses. • The cities and county need to help garner funding to develop these alternative uses and to develop policies to use biomass products as they are being developed. • Lumber prices are very high right now and mills will continue to produce waste. • Trucking mill waste to out-of-area biomass plants adds carbon impacts. • The County is considering nano cellulose’s economic development potential for Samoa Peninsula. • Wood chips and whole logs are being exported through Humboldt Bay. There is already interest in pellet and biofuel exports. • HSC will still burn biomass for on-site electricity and use the waste heat to dry lumber. • Other entities can purchase electricity from HSC if RCEA does not. • Biomass’ baseload power, or power that can be generated around the clock, gives the community energy resiliency. HSC energy comes with state renewable energy credits because it provides baseload power when the sun goes down and would be attractive to other offtakers because of this. • Electrons used in Humboldt County come either from fossil fuel or local biomass. • RCEA is already investing in developing local grid reliability and will continue to work with HBGS and HSC on resilience even if not procuring power from these entities. • Earlier prices paid to HSC subsidized local biomass; subsequent negotiations brought prices down. Current negotiations aim to bring prices down to local market rates. • Short- and long-term solutions are needed. Biochar, nano cellulose and composting are long-term solutions. There are no other local solutions for mill waste at present. • The HSC contract needs to be flexible so waste can be shifted to non-combustion uses as technology and industries advance. • Humboldt County produces 140 truckloads of waste daily. If HSC increases its daily power output to fulfill a 10-year contract with RCEA, only half of the waste material would be used. There would still be opportunity for alternative use product development and market creation as well as energy generation.
The directors supported the CAC continuing to work on alternative biomass uses, and for the Alternative Biomass Uses Subcommittee to be a step in developing a biomass technical advisory committee with representatives from many fields, which is a RePower strategic plan goal. The directors requested that the Alternative Biomass Uses Subcommittee bring a workable proposal to the Board for consideration at the April or May Board meeting.
M/S: M. Wilson, Avis: Accept Biomass Power in Humboldt County report and presentation from consultant Michael J. Furniss.
Accept Alternative Uses of Biomass Material in Humboldt County preliminary report from the Community Advisory Committee. May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 151 RCEA March 25, 2021, Board of Directors Meeting DRAFT Minutes ______Page 5
The motion passed with a unanimous roll call vote. Ayes: Avis, Bauer, Curran, Grover, Losey, Schaefer, F. Wilson, M. Wilson, Woo. Noes: None. Abstain: None. Absent: None.
8.2 Board Meeting Duration and Frequency Adjustments
Executive Director Marshall reported on staff’s recommendation to schedule special meeting study sessions quarterly or at the Board’s pleasure to address topics requiring more explanation and community input and to focus regular meetings on action items.
The Board agreed on the usefulness of study sessions and the need to refine how meetings are conducted, especially as the directors change. Other suggestions included setting time limits on agenda items and moving consent calendar and perfunctory business to the end of the meeting.
The directors requested that special meetings be scheduled on days other than regular meeting days and that the directors invest time in reading staff reports to shorten in-meeting reports. The directors were reminded that the Executive Director and other staff are available to answer questions. Staff offered to provide requested information thorough white papers.
No member of the public responded to Chair Woo’s invitation for comment. Chair Woo closed the public comment period.
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
A report by RCEA Consultant Michael Furniss on the status of local micro hydropower was requested. A request for a report on wave energy converters will be addressed with a brief white paper to be shared with the Board.
CLOSED SESSION
Chair Woo invited public comment on closed session item 11.1. No one from the public asked to speak. Chair Woo closed the public comment period and the Board adjourned to closed session at 5:42 p.m. to discuss:
10.1. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATIONS Pursuant to Government Code § 54956.8 in re: APNs 001-104-001-000, 001-114-006-000, 003-062-027-000, 001-011-021-000, 002-062-008, 002-062-009, and 002-062-005: RCEA negotiator: Executive Director; Owner’s negotiating party: Kramer Investment Corporation, Coldwell Banker Pacific Partners, the City of Eureka, and Ming Tree Realtors; Under negotiation: price and terms.
The directors reconvened in open session at 6:29 p.m. Chair Woo stated that there was nothing to report from closed session and adjourned the meeting at 6:29 p.m.
Lori Taketa Clerk of the Board May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 152 ______May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 153 ______May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 154 ______May 19, 2021 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 155 ______
Section 17 ADJOURN