PC 05/28/97 - Laserfiche WebLink

Environmental Impact Report for the Hacienda Business Park was approved the conditions of approval required the monitoring of noise, air quality, and water quality impacts. He reported that the Hacienda Owners Association feels that due to the substantial development of the Business Park these conditions could now be eliminated. He informed the Commission that the traffic analysis previously required for each new development project had been eliminated, and that these monitoring programs are similar to the traffic analysis requirement. Mr. Iserson advised that a Citywide noise analysis is done every several years and that appropriate safeguards are in place. He also noted that staff is recommending a condition of approval which would require a site specific noise study be prepared should a use be proposed which has the potential for creating an adverse noise impact. Mr. Iserson reported that during the original processing of the Hacienda PUD development plans, concern was expressed that future businesses, such as computer chip manufacturing, could contaminate the ground water basin. However, these types of businesses generally have not located in Hacienda. He advised that analysis has identified minute traces of substances, and the amounts of the substances has been so low and sporadic that no additional investigation has been required by any local, state, or federal agency. Staff is recommending that water quality analysis be done on a site specific basis and that the abandonment of any well be done so pursuant to the requirements of Zone 7. With regard to the air quality monitoring requirements, Mr. Iserson noted that while traffic has increased since the air quality monitoring has begun, the total amount of emissions released is decreasing due to various factors. He advised that BAAQMD was contacted regarding the proposed elimination of the air quality monitoring and that the District did not voice opposition, but did indicate that it found the data useful to establish general area levels. Staff is recommending a condition that would provide for air quality analysis and monitoring if a particular use in Hacienda has the possibility of negatively impacting air quality. Alternatively, the monitoring could be discontinued now but reinstated in the future if it is found that traffic assumptions are being exceeded. Mr. Iserson referred to the letter received today from James Paxson, General Manager of the Hacienda Owners Association, which provides some additional information on the environmental monitoring programs, including the costs of the monitoring programs. Commissioner Cooper asked how long before the Hacienda Business Park would reach 90% buildout. Mr. Paxson felt this could occur within the next couple of years. Commissioner Lutz asked if 80% buildout meant that 80% of the workers and residents would be in the Park. Mr. Iserson responded that the percentage of buildout refers to the square footage cap, not necessarily workers. Commissioner Lutz asked if the percentage referred to built or occupied. Mr. Iserson advised that the figure was based on approved and/or built. In response to Commissioner Kumaran's question as to where the original intent was to continue the monitoring until 100% of buildout, Mr. Iserson stated that he doesn't know if there was definite thought given as to when the monitoring could be modified or discontinued. Planning Commission Minutes Page 7 May 28, 1997