Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 3.23a Town of Los Altos Hills February I, 2007 Staff Report to the Planning Commission RE: PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE GENERAL PLAN INCLUDING UPDATED INTRODUCTION, CONSERVATION ELEMENT, AND OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION ELEMENT WITH INITIAL STUDY AND NEGATIVE DECLARATION FROM: Leslie Hopper, AICP, Project Planner APPROVED BY: Debbie Pedro, AIC$ Planning Director? t RECOMMENDATION That the Planning Commission: 1. Review the proposed amendments to the General Plan and the proposed Initial Study/Negative Declaration and consider comments from the public. 2. Make a recommendation to the City Council to adopt the Initial Study/Negative Declaration and the proposed amendments to the Los Altos Hills General Plan with any modifications deemed appropriate. BACKGROUND In July 2005 the City Council established the Ad Hoc General Plan Committee and authorized it to begin updating the General Plan. The broad-based Committee has six members, including a member of the City Council and a member of the Planning Commission. The Committee has been meeting twice a month to update six of the nine existing elements of the Town's General Plan. THE GENERAL PLAN The General Plan is the Town's blueprint for the future. It provides policy direction for land use decisions regarding the conservation of resources and the development of the community. It provides a legal foundation for zoning, site development and subdivision ordinances, all of which must be consistent with the General Plan. The State mandates that the General Plan include seven elements: Land Use, Housing, Circulation, Conservation, Open Space, Noise, and Safety. Other elements such as Recreation and Pathways are optional. The State requires the Housing Element to be updated every five years, and the Governor's Office of Planning and Research (OPR) recommends that the remaining elements be updated every eight to ten years. STATE REQUIREMENTS As indicated in the letter included as Attachment I from the Governor's Office of Planning and Research, five of the seven mandatory elements of the Town's General Plan have not been revised since 1975. The Town will be reported to the Attorney General if at least five mandatory elements have not been revised by 2008. Planning Commission Febroary 1, 2007 Page 2 of 3 UPDATE PROCESS The elements to be updated are divided into two groups. Phase 1 includes an update to the Introduction, Open Space & Recreation, and Conservation Elements. Phase 2 includes the Land Use, Noise, and Safety Elements. The Circulation & Scenic Roadways, Housing Element, and Pathways Elements are the more recent sections of the General Plan and will not be updated at this time. The General Plan Committee followed a two-step process in revising the elements. First the documents were revised to produce more accurate, legible and reproducible documents. Then the goals, policies and programs were reviewed to ensure that they were relevant and appropriate. Affected committees were asked to review and comment on the draft elements. Purissima Hills Water District also participated in the process. Based on their recommendations, several new policies and programs were added. NEW POLICIES AND PROGRAMS Proposed new policies and programs are highlighted in yellow in the text of the public review draft. In addition, they are summarized in Attachment 5. Included are the following: 1. New policies and programs on energy conservation, water resources, and waste reduction and recycling that have already been approved and implemented by the City Council but were not part of the original 1975 General Plan. 2. New policies and programs that address current land use and environmental issues and are being introduced by committees that participated in the update process. CONSULTATION, REFERRAL AND PUBLIC NOTICE As required by state law, the Town contacted potentially affected California Native American Tribes on October 18, 2006 and provided a 90 -day period in which consultation could be requested. No requests for consultation with contacted tribes have been received. In compliance with Government Code Section 65352, the proposed amendments were referred to potentially affected entities for review and comment. The required 45 -day review period is January 8 — February 21, 2007. Referral was made to the following entities: • Santa Clara County and the adjacent cities of Palo Alto and Los Altos • Purissima Hills Water District and Cal -Water Company • Santa Clara Valley Water District • Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District • LAFCO of Santa Clara • Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) • Bay Area Air Quality Management District • The Ohlone Indian Tribe and the Indian Canyon Matson Band of Costanoan To date, no comments have been received from these agencies. Planning Commission February 1, 2007 Page 3 of 3 Public notice was published on January 17, 2007 in the Town Crier pursuant to Government Code Section 65090. In addition, notice was posted and a Townwide mailing was done ten days prior to the Planning Commission hearing pursuant to LAH Municipal Code Section 10-1.1105. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW In compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), an Initial Study was prepared and adoption of a Negative Declaration is proposed for the project. Notice of intent to adopt a Negative Declaration was published in the Town Crier on January 17, 2007 and provided to the Santa Clara County Clerk for posting. The required 20 -day review period is January 18— February 6, 2007. The proposed amendments are intended to fine-tune and strengthen existing policies and programs that protect natural resources and open space. New policies are intended to provide additional environmental protection and meet the recreation needs of Town residents. No adverse environmental impacts will result from adoption of the proposed General Plan amendments. COMMENTS RECEIVED All of the written comments received to date are included as Attachment 4. ATTACHMENTS 1. Letter from Governor's Office of Planning and Research dated May 24, 2006 2. Public Review Draft of Proposed Amendments to the Los Altos Hills General Plan 3. Summary of New Policies and Programs 4. Initial Study and Negative Declaration 5. Existing General Plan 6. Comments Received May 24, 2006 Carl Cahill, Director City of Los Altos Hills Planning Department 26379 Fremont Road Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 Dear Carl Cahill, ATTACHMENT STATE OF CALIFORNIA Governor's Office of Planning and Research *£ �lima g 'hwrua^� Sean Walsh Dir Wr i'IFr, TUNN OF LOS ALTOS HIL18 The Govemor s Office of Planning and Research (OPR) is required to notify cities and counties with general plans that have not been revised in eight (8) years (Government Code Section 65040.5(a)). Our records indicate that Los Altos Hills's General Plan has not been revised in the past 8 years or more. For purposes of this notification, a revision is considered to be a comprehensive update of at least five (5) of the seven (7) mandatory general plan elements and adopted by the local legislative body. According to our records, the mandatory elements of the General Plan for the City of Los Altos Hills were last updated during the years noted and you are currently in the process of a comprehensive update of your General Plan. Land Use: 1975 Circulation: 1999 Housin : 2002 Conservation: 1975 O en S ace: 1975 Safe 1975 Noise: 1975 if this information is incorrect, please contact Erin Larson at the OPP. State CLariagheuc via phone (916) 445-0613 or email erin larson(a)oor.ca.gov so that we may update our records. To compile its list of jurisdictions with 8 -year-old general plans, OPR surveyed local government planning agencies in 2005 for current information regarding their general plans. OPR also reviewed public notices from thejurisdictions, examined information in our CEQA database and searched some of the jurisdictions' websites for additional information about their general plans. General plans that have not been revised within the past 8 years are not necessarily legally inadequate. However, the California Supreme Court has stated that local governments have an implied duty to keep their general plans current (DeVita v. County of Napa, 9 Cal. 41° 763 (1995)). Additionally, local governments must review and revise their general plans as often as they deem necessary or appropriate (Government Code Section 65103(a)). The general plan statutes do not provide a mandatory minimum time frame for revision, except for housing elements, which must be revised not less than every five years (Government Code Section 65588). Page Two May 24, 2006 OPR is also required to report to the Attorney General, cities and counties with general plans that have not been revised in ten (10) years (Government Code Section 65040.5(b)). Yourjurisdiction will be reported to the Attorney General only if your general plan becomes 10 years old. If your general plan is 10 years old or older, your jurisdiction has already been reported to the Attorney General. If you would like to make corrections to our records, have any questions or require additional information, please call Erin Larson at (916) 445-0613. Sincerely, Sean Walsh Director ATTACHMENT a Town of Los Altos Hills GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2007 PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT January 2007 LOSALTOS HILLS CALIFORNIA Town of Los Altos Hills GENERAL PLAN UPDATE Phase One Public Review Draft Introduction Conservation Element Open Space and Recreation Element Appendix A—Inventory of Historic Sites and Structures General Plan Update Committee Mike O'Malley, Chairman City Councilmember Cad Cottrell Planning Commissioner Carol Gottlieb Dot Schreiner Elayne Dauber Janet Vitu Planning Staff Debbie Pedro Planning Director Leslie Hopper CSG Consultants, Inc. 26379 Fremont Road, Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 Phone: 650.941-7222 Fax: 650-941-3160 w Josaltoshills.ca.gov Acknowledgments The General Plan Update Committee gratefully acknowledges the contributions of the following organiutions and their representatives: Open Space Committee Environmental Design and Protection Committee Environmental Initiatives Committee Parks and Recreation Committee Purissima Hills Water District Cover photo by Saul Chaikin INTRODUCTION Public Review Draft January 2007 LOS ALTOS FULLS GENERAL PLAN Public Review Draft January 2007 Introduction The Los Altos Hills planning area is characterized by its natural beauty, extensive open spaces, and semi-mral lifestyle. The rolling hills and rugged mountains of the planning area provide a natural backdrop for the more intensively developed urban areas around San Francisco Bay. The topography also provides significant constraints to development such as steep slopes, unstable soils, seismic faults and other natural hazards. Preservation of the natural setting is important for maintaining and enhancing the quality of life for residents of the Town, as well as the Mid -Peninsula and Bay Area region. This General Plan provides a policy framework within which Los Altos Hills can develop in a safe, orderly manner while preserving its semi -rural, residential character. BACKGROUND Up to the decade of the 1950's, land ownership in the Los Altos Hills planning area was in relatively large holdings, which had been held as ranches and estates. With the coming of intensive urbanization to Santa Clam County, these holdings were threatened with development patterns similar to those taking place in other parts of the Bay Area, the results of which would have been to destroy completely the pleasant rural character that existed. To protect themselves against these threats and to preserve the rural atmosphere, the residents joined together and incorporated the Town of Los Altos Hills on January 27, 1956. At the time of incorporation, the area was more truly rural and agricultural than it is today. Los Altos Hills is now a semi-nual residential area, with many residents who are employed in the more urbanized portions of the region. This transition from rural to semi -rural has not significantly altered the Town's character. The Town of Los Altos Hills Although Los Altos Hills is no longer an was incorporated to ensure the agricultural community, the nagged physical "preservation of the rural characteristics of the area have helped to atmosphere of the foothills and maintain its pastoral quality. In addition, orderly and unhurried growth. " residents continue to pursue small-scale crop and nee fanning, the keeping of horses and Articles oflncorporation other domestic animals, viticulture, and other 1956 agricultural pursuits compatible with residential uses and a semi -rural lifestyle. In 1959, in an effort to implement the community goals expressed at the time of incorporation, Los Altos Hills adopted its first General Plan. Since that time, the General Plan has evolved through revision and the adoption of new elements to meet the Town's needs. The last major update of the General Plan occurred in 1975. Since 1975, significant changes have occurred in Los Altos Hills, the state, and the nation that should be reflected in the General Plan. Also, state requirements for General Plans have broadened. To fulfill the current General Plan requirements of the California Government Code and, more importantly, to reflect the many changes that have occurred since 1975, the goals and policies as well as the data in the original plan have been reevaluated and revised to ensure that the Los Altos Hills General Plan meets the needs of the community today and in the new future. Introduction Los Altos Hills General Plan Page I Public Review Draft January 2007 THE CURRENT UPDATE OF THE GENERAL PLAN 6. The current update of the General Plan is based on the belief that an informed public can and will decide the kind of environment and level of the public services it desires and will take actions necessary to achieve its goals. The characteristics of the environment desired by the residents of Los Altos Hills were initially expressed in the Platform for Incorporation in 1955. The essence of that document was the preservation of a rural (or semi -rural) atmosphere with a minimum of government and taxes. These principles are still relevant, having been continually reaffirmed through Town actions and surveys, and have been reemphasized in policy contained in the current revision. 7. The revised General Plan, when adopted, becomes an official statement of public policy regarding the future physical development of the Town, and serves as the basis for public and private decisions and actions. The purpose of the General Plan is to provide a guide for coordinated decision-making. To be effective, the General Plan must provide a framework within which private and public actions can take place in a manner consistent with the public interest. Furthermore, the plan must be understood and respected by neighboring jurisdictions and agencies of the state and federal governments. It is therefore necessary that private interests and other levels of government be informed of the General Plan and its philosophical basis. The realization of the vision embodied in the General Plan will depend upon positive actions taken by governmental agencies and private interests. SCOPE OF THE GENERAL PLAN 8. The plan is "general" in that it does not attempt to address details, but focuses on the major aspects of community development and change. Detailed planning is reserved for shorter - range plans and programs. The General Plan also is "comprehensive" in that it is the one document that sets forth ALL of the major physical parameters of development in the Town and assures that all aspects are consistent with each other. Finally, the General Plan deals primarily with the physical development of the community and land use issues. This does not mean, however, that non-physical aspects of the community are ignored. General Plan goals and policies sometimes address non-physical aspects of the community, such as social, econondc and public interest concerns. 9. The General Plan becomes the basis for a wide range of community actions. These include the establishment of community development regulations such as zoning, site development, and subdivision ordinances as well as public safety programs. THE PLANNING PERIOD I0. The General Plan is a long-range, comprehensive guide for the future development of the community for the next 20 years. Such a period is probably as far into the future as we can realistically plan, and at the same time allows for considerable change to take place through the implementation of programs intended to achieve specific goals. it. The General Plan should be evaluated periodically to determine whether it continues to reflect the aims of the citizens and provide a realistic guide for future development. State law requires the Housing Element to be updated every five years. Other elements also should be reviewed and updated at least every five years to ensure that the General Plan continues to cover a future time span of 20 to 30 years. In this manner, the General Plan will continue to serve as the Towns long-range guide. Introduction Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 2 Public Review Draft January 2007 Sleep slopes to the south and west provide a natural backdrop. THE PLANNING AREA 12. The Los Altos Hills planning area is located in northwest Santa Clara County, south of Palo Alto and west of Los Altos. The planning area contains come 14,000 acres, approximately 5,400 of which make up the Town of Los Altos Hills, California. The planning area is hilly and mountainous, with extremely irregular patterns of drainage. Elevations range from 100 feet in the lower portions, primarily along the northeastern edge of the planning area, to approximately 2,700 feet above sea level along the Monte Bello Ridge Line to the south. The lower elevations in the northeastern part of the planning area are characterized by gently rolling hills, while the southwest terrain becomes more precipitous. Almost all of the planning area is endowed with heavy natural vegetative cover, including many oak -studded hills and canyons. 13. Three major faults traverse the Town of Los Altos Hills: • Berrocal Fault, which runs from west to east. • Altamont Fault, parallel to Berrocal Fault. • Monte Vista Fault, running from northwest to southeast All of these fault lines are categorized by the state as potentially active. The effects of a significant seismic event would be most intense on lands with steep slopes and weak soils, which represent much of the remaining undeveloped land with the Los Altos Hills planning area. Introduction Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 3 Public Review Draft January 2007 14. To plan for the future of Los Altos Hills, areas beyond the Town corporate limits should be included as part of the planning area. Because of important functional or visual relationships to Los Altos Hills, portions of Palo Alto, Los Altos, and unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County, including portions of the lands of Stanford University, are included in the Los Altos Hills planning area. Such land can be broken into two categories of concern: a. Sphere of Influence — This is the Town's sphere of influence as established by the Santa Clara County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO). The General Plan proposes policies for the sphere of influence as a guide to Santa Clara County and as an indication of Town policy that would apply, should the area be annexed. The Town's sphere of influence covers approximately 3,700 acres of unincorporated area. Areas of Direct Concern — These lands are beyond the Town's corporate limits, but not included as par[ of the sphere of influence. For these areas, the General Plan includes policies that provide a basis for cooperative programs or negotiations with the jurisdictions having primary responsibility for planning and development of these lands. Of the total 14,000 -acre planning area, Areas of Direct Concern comprise approximately 4,900 acres. 15. The planning area is delineated by recognizable physical features, including major thoroughfares, large non-residential areas, and natural topographic features. To the south, the planning area includes Hidden Villa, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, and Hanson Cement properties up to and including a portion of Monte Bello Ridge and Kaiser Ridge. To the west it includes a portion of adjoining Palo Alto. To the north and northeast it includes lands in Los Altos and generally follows Foothill Expressway. To the east it is bounded by Pemnmente Creek. 16. Based on U.S. Census data, in the year 2000 there were 2,816 primary housing units (a significant number of which have secondary units) within incorporated Los Altos Hills, and the residential population was 7,902 persons. Beyond 2000, ABAG projects that the population of the Town may reach 9,200 by 2030. REGIONAL CONTEXT 17. The Town of Los Altos Hills is functionally interrelated to other parts of the San Francisco Bay region. Residents of Los Altos Hills are dependent on other parts of the Bay Area for a wide variety of cultural, commercial, and recreational facilities. The Town is particularly dependent on employment centers in the Bay Area that are within commute time of the residents of the community. The relationship, however, is not one-sided. The Town and its surroundings are endowed with significant natural beauty which is relatively close to major activity centers in the Bay Area, making the Town attractive for those seeking a natural environment in which to make their home. In addition, because the planning area includes hillsides that are visible from a significant part of the region, Los Altos Hills provides visual relief from the congestion of the more urban area for a large number of Bay Area residents. 18. Los Altos Hills is also part of the Mid -Peninsula, a sub -region of the Bay Area. Palo Alto and Los Altos serve as the commercial hub of this sub -region. Major shopping areas include downtown Los Altos and Palo Alto as well as the Stanford Shopping Center. Health care services are provided by the EI Camino Hospital and the Stanford -Palo Alto Hospital Center. Stanford University provides another important cluster of services and cultural amenities. Introduction Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 4 Public Review Draft January 2007 Employment centers are readily accessible to Los Altos Hills by way of an extensive sub - regional highway system (see following diagram). As a part of the Mid -Peninsula region, Los Altos Hills is important as a low-density residential area meeting a specific housing need for the area, and as a naturally scenic and open space area complementing the intensively developed urban portions of the Bay Area. ASSUMPTIONS 19. The General Plan for Los Altos Hills must relate to larger forces at the national, state, and regional levels. Most importantly, it most relate to the forces at work in the San Francisco Bay Area. Because the Town has little or no control over the many external forces that will influence its future, it is necessary to identify some of the more significant general conditions that appear likely to prevail in the future. If the following assumptions prove to be incorrect, it will be necessary for Los Altos Hills to re-evaluate the goals and objectives of the General Plan. L California and the Bay Area will continue to experience an increase in total population; however for at least the near future, growth in the Bay Area will be substantially slower than the growth in Southern California or many other portions of the state. 2. In the nation, state, and Bay Area, there will be a continuing concem for the quality of the environment, which will be expressed in public and private decisions to control the extent and form of growth and the utilization of resources, and to vigorously preserve our natural environment. 3. The major needs of Los Altos Hills residents for goods and work opportunities will continue to be satisfied through outlets and facilities located outside of the Town. 4. Los Altos Hills and adjacent areas similar in character will continue to provide an important, unique and diminishing sub -regional resource — that is, an area that meets the needs of individuals and families seeking a semi -[ural lifestyle in a natural setting. 5. The residents of California and the Bay Area will continue to demand high quality residential, working and recreational areas. 6. The primary mode of transportation between Los Altos Hills and other parts of the Mid -Peninsula will continue to be the automobile, with secondary movement by bicycle, by foot, and by horseback. 7. Feeder systems, as part of an overall mass transit network, will provide only limited service to the Los Altos Hills planning area. REGIONAL GOALS 20. If Los Altos Hills and similar areas are to continue to provide a natural environment as a balance and alternative to congestion in the more intensively developed portions of the Mid - Peninsula and Bay Area, certain conditions must prevail. These conditions cannot be Introduction Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 5 Public Review Draft January 2007 assumed; they must be vigorously supported by the Town. As a result, the Town establishes the following regional goals: 1. Government, groups, and individuals should be encouraged to participate in the planning, management, and use of the limited natural resources of the Bay Area in such a way as to conserve and restore the environment. 2. In the areas adjoining Los Altos Hills planning area, control of development should be adequate to prevent adverse effects on properties in the Los Altos Hills area. 3. Legislation should be encouraged to guide regional patterns of growth and development, with particular attention being given to the establishment of population limits based on environmental constraints, space availability, and reasonable extension of services and facilities. 4. All persons in the Bay Area should be able to obtain needed community facilities and services, as well as adequate housing in satisfying neighborhoods and in locations convenient to jobs. Each community should be viewed in this regional context, and should provide the housing types that are best suited to its natural setting and proximity to employment, recreation, goods and services, and other facilities. 5. Belts of natural, open land should be preserved surrounding jurisdictions wherever possible, to maintain community integrity and to enhance the environmental quality of the region. COMMUNITY GOALS 21. The major community goals stated below are general in nature and provide the most basic policy for the General Plan: Los Altos Hills should be a community dedicated to maintaining a semi - rural atmosphere, where people can live in the midst of open space, exposed to minimum noise, congestion, and confusion, and with sufficient space on each lot to allow the pursuit of space -consuming activities, such as vineyards, gardening and orchards, the keeping of horses, and outdoor recreation. Los Altos Hills should continue to serve as a transition between the urbanized areas of the Mid -Peninsula and the open coastal mountain range. Los Altos Hills should provide a low-density residential environment and open space for the region, and rely on the more urbanized areas for the provision of employment, goods and most services. COMMUNITY STRUCTURE 22. The land use and circulation proposals contained in the General Plan stem from the recognition that the natural beauty and semi-mml character of the planning area are resources that must be preserved for local residents and inhabitants of the Mid -Peninsula and the Bay Area. The intensity and distribution of land uses and standards for development are largely Introduction Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 6 Public Review Draft January 2007 determined and conditioned by the natural environment of the area. In addition, existing development sets the general framework for further development. 23. The primary uses of land in Los Altos Hills are single-family residences including secondary dwelling units and other accessory structures; small-scale agricultural activities; and recreation and open space. A minimum of one acre of land is required per primary residence. In general, however, the density of dwelling units decreases as the steepness of land increases, due to Town regulations and physical constraints. In addition, uses within the planning area include public and private facilities necessary to serve the residents on a continuing basis. 24. Some employment and commercial areas are located adjoining the northern and northeastern portions of the planning area and are easily accessible by major thoroughfares. Commercial activities, except commercial stables, are not proposed within the corporate limits of Los Altos Hills. The only employment activities expected to be located in the Town are those associated with necessary facilities and services. 25. In the planning area, the steep slopes to the west, southwest and south are to be preserved as open space because of their scenic qualities and natural hazards inherent in their development. Elsewhere, major emphasis is placed on the preservation of the natural environment throughout the development process. In addition, development is to be strictly controlled in those areas determined to be potentially dangerous due to inherent natural hazards. 26. The thoroughfares of Page Mill Road, Arastmdero Road, El Monte -Moody Road, and Magdalena Avenue provide for primary movement within the planning area. These routes also connect the planning area with Interstate 280, Foothill Expressway, and Highway 101, which in tum link the area with all parts of the Bay Area. Interstate 280 links Loa Altos Hills to other parts of the Bay Area. 27. Page Mill and EI Monte -Moody Roads also serve as important Mid -Peninsula links to recreation areas in the foothills and south to Skyline Boulevard. These routes also lead to the more western and rugged portions of Santa Clara and San Mateo counties and eventually to recreation areas on the coast. These routes are used by individuals traveling by motor vehicle, bicycle, horseback or by foot. 28. The circulation system within the Town is generally organized so as to minimize the intrusion of the automobile and to maximize alternative modes of transportation. Roadways are generally narrow and circuitous, which tends to discourage extraneous through -traffic. By contrast, the Town's unique system of trails and paths facilitates direct, easy circulation by pedestrians, bicyclists and equestrians. Introduction Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 7 Public Review Draft January 2007 USE AND ORGANIZATION OF THE PLAN 29. The Town's General Plan is intended to be used by all members of the community, as well as any other person or organization interested in the future of Los Altos Hills. The citizens and officials who have prepared the plan designed it to be a useful, easy -to -read document. 30. State law requires General Plans to contain seven mandatory sections, or "elements." The table below shows the State -mandated elements and their counterparts in the Los Altos Hills General Plan. State -Mandated Elements • Land Use • Circulation • Housing • Open Space • Conservation • Safety • Noise Corresponding Los Altos Hills General Plan Elements • Land Use • Circulation & Scenic Roadways • Housing • Open Space & Recreation • Conservation • Safety • Noise • Pathways 31. The Town's General Plan departs from the structure suggested by the state in a number of ways. The Open Space has been combined with Recreation, which is an optional element. The plan also includes a Pathways Element. Although these elements address topics that are not required by state law, they address issues that are fundamental to the future quality of life in Los Altos Hills. Once adopted, the optional elements have the same legal status as the mandatory elements. No single element or subject supercedes any other. 32. Most of the elements of the General Plan share a common format and use similar terms and references. Each element contains background information on specific subjects to make the General Plan more useful as a reference document and to provide the technical basis for its policies and programs. In addition, each element includes goals, policies and programs that are the essence of the plan and are to be consulted to guide decisions on a wide range of issues. Definitions A Goal is a general end or objective towards which the Town will direct its efforts. A Policy is a statement of principle or general direction that guides decision-making. The Town sets policies to follow in order to meet its goals. A Program is an action, activity or implementation measure that carries out adopted policies in order to achieve a specific goal or objective. Introduction Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 8 Public Review Draft January 2007 COMPONENTS OF THE PLAN 33, The Introduction, the Elements and the Land Use Diagram constitute the official General Plan of the Town of Los Altos Hills. Each Element of the General Plan includes goals, policies and programs to guide the Town's actions. The General Plan has been developed pursuant to the state law goveming local planning as found in Chapter 3, Title 7, of the Government Code. Plans for sub -areas, when developed and adopted, become part of the General Plan. Appendices provide background information relevant to the General Plan. The appendices are supplemental information and are not intended to be adopted as part of the General Plan. 34. To facilitate future updates, the General Plan is organized in parts and sections so that amendments, when shown to be necessary, can be accomplished in an orderly manner. For convenient reference, each paragraph is numbered. IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN 35. The General Plan will be implemented through the actions of the City Council, the Planning Commission, Town committees, and Town staff. Plan policies will be carried out through the implementation of programs and the administration of ordinances, through annual budgeting and capital improvement programming, and through decision-making on development proposals. 36. The plan is intended to be a living document, to grow and change as local conditions change. It may at times be necessary to amend the plan. Amendments may be initiated by property owners, the Planning Commission, the City Council, or staff. All amendments require public hearings by the Planning Commission and City Council and evaluation of the environmental impacts in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act. 37. Through continuing to use, evaluate and amend the General Plan, the residents of Los Altos Hills can ensure that the Town continues to develop in accordance with their vision of the future. Introduction Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 9 CONSERVATION ELEMENT Public Review Draft January 2007 LOS ALTOS HILLS GENERAL PLAN Public Review Draft January 2007 Conservation Element INTRODUCTION 300. Residents of Los Altos Hills are committed to protecting the creeks and rolling hills, the oak woodlands and chaparral that characterize the community and create what some consider to be the quintessentially Californian landscape. Maintaining the Town's character and quality of life depends upon the wise management and use of the natural environment and other unique resources. 301. The Conservation Element addresses the protection and management of natural resources in the Los Altos Hills planning area. It also addresses the conservation of other unique community resources such as historic sites. The element identifies important resources, defines conservation policy, and outlines programs for implementation. 302. This is one of seven elements mandated by the state. It satisfies state requirements for a Conservation Element by including policies pertaining to the following subjects: • Creeks and riparian areas • Trees and plants • Wildlife species and habitat • Air quality • Water resources • Soil resources • Mineral resources • Energy conservation • Waste reduction and recycling • Historic sites and structures • Environmental integrity Byrne Preserve in the Spring For convenience these resources are addressed in separate sections, but their interrelationships should be recognized and cherished as part of the area's ecosystem. 303. The Conservation Element is closely related to other elements, including the Land Use Element, the Open Space and Recreation Element, and the Pathway Element. The preservation and use of open space is addressed in the Open Space and Recreation Element. Natural hazards are addressed in the Safety Element. 304. The Conservation Element provides a framework for the conservation and use of natural and historic resources. Some aspects of conservation programs can be accomplished solely through public efforts, while others can only be realized by appealing to the community spirit of the owners of private property within the Town. This element is concerned with policies and programs, requiring both public and private action, that will conserve and enhance the natural environment and unique qualities of the planning area. Conservation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 1 Public Review Draft January 2007 305. CREEKS AND RIPARIAN CORRIDORS Creeks and their associated riparian corridors are important public assets that provide unique ecological, aesthetic, and recreational values to the community. The Los Altos Hills stream system contains some of the most intact and valuable riparian habitat in the San Francisco Bay region. Many miles of streams and their tributaries flow through the Los Altos Hills Planning Area, including unnamed watercourses and the following named creeks: mew. L. am.oa..i. • Adobe Creek • Barron Creek • Deer Creek • Dry Creek • Hale Creek • Loyola Creek • Magdalena Creek • Matadero Creek • Purissima Creek • Permanente Creek • Robleda Creek • Summerhill Creek Adobe Creek 306. Creeks and riparian areas are critically important as wildlife habitat and migratory corridors. Many of the Town's riparian areas are contiguous with riparian areas in larger adjacent open space preserves such as Rancho San Antonio, Los Trances, and Arastradero, which significantly increases their ecological value. Riparian areas also are essential in maintaining creek stability and water quality. Healthy riparian vegetation adjacent to watercourses stabilizes steambanks, absorbs water, and filters pollutants. Creeks and riparian corridors also provide significant aesthetic and recreational values. Many of the stream canyons are essential links in the Town's pathway system. 307. The presence of invasive, non-native plant species (e.g., Italian thistle, pampas grass, and arundo) in riparian corridors has an adverse effect on native vegetation and reduces the hydrologic function and wildlife value. Timely removal of invasive species will preserve the quality and function of riparian areas and avoid much more expensive restoration expenses in the future. 308. Owners of property intersected by creeks and riparian corridors are faced with a confusing array of requirements and restrictions by various agencies. A clear set of guidelines and standards for riparian corridors would make the planning process more objective and ensure that General Plan goals and policies are carried out. Conservation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 2 Public Review Draft January 2007 GOAL Conserve creeks and riparian areas as open space amenities and natural habitat areas. Policy 1.1 Avoid fencing, piping, and channelization of creeks when flood control and public safety can be achieved through measures that preserve the natural environment and habitat of the creek. Policy 1.2 Work with the Santa Clara Valley Water District and other relevant regional agencies to enhance riparian corridors and provide adequate flood control by use of low impact restoration strategies. Policy 1.3 Preserve the integrity of riparian corridors as unique and environmentally sensitive resources. Program 1.1 Continue to require that structures be set back at least 25 feet from the top of creek banks. To ensure adequate protection of these valuable resources, review the 25 -foot setback and consider expanding it to the driplines of mature oak trees within the setback. Program 1.2 Continue to require open space easements along creeks and riparian corridors to ensue that these areas remain in their natural condition. Program 1.3 Continue to comply with the requirements of CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act) for proposed development that might impact creeks and riparian corridors. Other relevant local, state and federal agencies including the Santa Clara Valley Water District, the Regional Water Quality Control Board, the California Department of Fish and Game, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers are consulted as appropriate. Program 1.4 Develop a comprehensive riparian policy that compiles and clarifies all relevant requirements for affected property owners. Program 1.5 Develop a program to manage and control invasive species within critical riparian corridors (e.g., Matadero Creek). Conservation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 3 Public Review Draft January 2007 TREES AND PLANTS 309. Oak woodlands and chaparral form the predominant vegetative communities on the hillsides leading up to Monte Bello Ridge and Kaiser Ridge. They serve to prevent erosion and protect the quality of the watershed. These wooded areas also support a wide variety of animal life. 310. Three other significant vegetative types that occur within the planning area are mixed oak woodlands, chaparral, and grassland -savanna areas. Generally, the oak woodlands tend to support a higher diversity of organisms than do grasslands. The chaparral areas represent a particularly high fire hazard during the dry seasons of the year. 311. Several species of rare, threatened, or endangered plants such as Santa Cruz Manzanita and Western Leatherwood have the potential to occur in the Los Altos Hills planning area. The potential locations for these species are primarily within the grassland and chaparral habitats in the foothills. AW Couuems Heritage Oak Tree at O'Keefe Lane Preserve HERITAGE TREES Trees are a valuable asset to the community because they beautify landscapes, increase property value, improve air quality, and reduce energy consumption. The Town's Heritage Tree Ordinance protects large oaks and other trees determined to be of special significance. The tree ordinance requires a permit to remove any tree defined as a Heritage Oak or Heritage Tree. Conservation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 4 Public Review Draft January 2007 GOAL Protect native and naturalized trees and plants. Policy 2.1 Minimize disturbance of the natural terrain and vegetation. Policy 2.2 Preserve and protect native and naturalized plants, with special attention to preservation of unique, rare or endangered species and plant communities such as oak woodlands. Policy 2.3 Preserve and protect Heritage Trees, including native oaks and other significant trees, on public and private property. Policy 2.4 Encourage the planting of native trees and shrubs to provide a substantial buffer between the roadways and adjoining properties in harmony with the general character of the Town. Policy 2.5 Encourage the removal and prevention of the spreading of aggressive exotics such as pampas grass, acacia, yellow star thistle, French broom, Scotch broom and eucalyptus. Policy 2.6 Avoid the development of environmentally sensitive areas that are rich in wildlife or of a fragile ecological nature, such as areas of rare or endangered species of plants, or riparian areas. Program 2.1 Continue to enforce the Heritage Tree Ordinance, which protects large oak trees and other significant trees by requiring a special permit for removal. Program 2.2 Continue to require the replacement of any Heritage Oaks or other significant trees that are removed under special permit or as part of approved development projects. Program 2.3 Continue to limit development within the dripline of Heritage Oaks. Program 2.4 Continue to refer site development applications to the Environmental Design Committee and Open Space Committee for review and comment. Program 2.5 Encourage the dedication of conservation/open space easements or the public acquisition of areas that are rich in wildlife or of a fragile ecological nature to ensure their protection. Program 2.6 In the landscaping of individual sites and replanting where original vegetation has been destroyed or removed, encourage the use of native rather than exotic plants. In those areas of high fire risk, however, it may be preferable to introduce carefully chosen exotics with high fire resistance characteristics. Conservation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 5 Public Review Draft January 2007 WILDLIFE SPECIES AND HABITAT 312. The open space areas in and around Los Altos Hills provide habitat for a wide range of wildlife, including mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, and insects. Some of the most common mammals include the cottontail rabbit, hare, black -tail deer, western gray squirrel, opossum, red fox, gray fox, raccoon, coyote, and bobcat. Common birds include the red -shouldered hawk, acorn woodpecker, western scrub -jay, turkey vulture, and California quail. 313. A number of species that have been identified by the federal and state governments as either endangered or threatened may possibly be present in the Los Altos Hills planning area. These include the California Red -legged Frog, the Northwestern Pond Turtle, and Cooper's Hawk. 314. In the past, development occurred with little conscious regard for impacts on wildlife habitat, sometimes with the result that natural species were driven out. Today the open space areas in and around Los Altos Hills are relatively undisturbed and serve as habitat for a diverse wildlife population. Conservation of this habitat is not only important for the protection of wildlife, but also for the conservation of the rural atmosphere of the community. 315. Wildlife move through the planning area along natural passageways, particularly in riparian areas that provide sources of food, water and shelter. Most wildlife corridors are located in areas designated as Open Space Conservation Areas. However, increased fencing by property owners is blocking the movement of wildlife and forcing them into detrimental movement patients. Wildlife corridors should be identified and fencing should not be allowed to restrict the movement of wildlife through these corridors. GOAL Maintain and enhance the integrity of wildlife habitat. Policy 3.1 Ensure that in the design and construction of public and private developments, wildlife habitat will be protected to the maximum extent feasible, with special emphasis on protecting the habitat of any endangered species. Policy 3.2 Review all subdivision and site development proposals to ensure that they do not obstruct wildlife access to important water, food, migration and breeding areas. Program 3.1 Consider requiring a biology report, prepared by a qualified biologist, to determine if wildlife habitat (particularly of endangered species) will be encroached upon by any proposed public or private project on parcels over 8 acres in size where such encroachment appears likely. Program 3.2 Continue to enforce the fence ordinance, which requires that fencing be located and constructed to allow the movement of wildlife through conservationlopen space easements and wildlife corridors. Program 3.3 Identify and map important wildlife corridors for use in land use planning and permitting and the protection of wildlife habitat. Conservation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 6 Public Review Draft January 2007 AIR QUALITY 316. Air quality is a regional issue that does not respect jurisdictional boundaries. Every city and county in the Bay Area most accept a portion of the responsibility for addressing air quality problems. Although air quality in the San Francisco Air Basin has improved considerably since the 1970s, the area still does not meet California Air Resource Board (CARB) standards for carbon monoxide (CO) and particulate matter smaller than 10 microns in diameter (PM -10s). 317. Motor vehicles are the primary source of air pollution in Los Altos Hills and the Bay Area. Other sources include road dust, construction and grading activities, wood -burning stoves and fireplaces. GOAL Improve air quality. Policy 4.1 Support regional, state, and federal programs that improve air quality in the Bay Area. Program 4.1 Encourage the use of alternative modes of transportation by maintaining and developing the Town's pathways system for bicyclists, pedestrians and equestrians. Program 4.2 Require all new fireplace inserts to comply with EPA -approved standards. Program 4.3 Monitor construction and grading activities to control dust. Pathways encourage alternative modes of transportation. Conservation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 7 Public Review Draft January 2007 WATER RESOURCES 318. Conservation of water resources encompasses a broad range of issues, ranging from water supply and water quality to the protection of groundwater and surface water feature like San Francisco Bay. Policies and programs and needed to ensure that a healthful, reliable supply of water remains available in the future. DRINKING WATER 319. The Town's drinking water is provided by two water suppliers: Purissima Hills Water District and the California Water Service Company (Cal Water). Purissima Hills Water District is a public agency that provides water to residents in the northern two-thirds of Los Altos Hills; Cal Water is an investor-owned utility that serves the remaining area. A few residents supplement their water supply with well water. 320. The amount of water available is constrained. Purissima Hills presently obtains all of its water from San Francisco's Hetch Hetchy system and is exceeding its supply assurance by 30-40 percent. Capacity limitations in the Hetch Hetchy system may be reached in six to eight years, or sooner in times of drought. Cal Water obtains the water supplied to Los Altos Hills from the Santa Clara Valley Water District via pipelines from the SCV WD's Rlnconada treatment plant and from company-owned wells. During the dry season, the plant and pipelines are at capacity. 321. When system capacity limits are reached, or in times of drought, water use may be subject to rationing or other restrictions. Purissima Hills may be limited to its contractual allotment, and Cal Water may have to implement some restrictions based on the supply available during drought or other occasions of constrained supply. Landscaping that is heavily dependent on irrigation may not survive. 322. Over 50% of all water used each year in the Purissima Hills Water District is for irrigation of landscaping. During the summer dry season (June through September) water use for new homes, on average, is three times that of the rainy season. 323. To encourage the conservation of water resources, Purissima Hills has established a progressive, multi -tiered rate structure. In addition, Purissima Hills and Cal Water have implemented programs such as the provision of homeowner assistance in water management and the distribution of water -efficient appliances. These water conservation programs have the added benefit of reducing energy consumption. Statewide, pumping water is the leading use of electrical power. For Purissima Hills Water District, the cost of power is a significant expenditure, trailing only the costs for water and manpower. GROUNDWATER 324. Groundwater in the Los Altos Hills planning area is contained in both shallow and deep aquifers formed in the alluvial deposits of streams running from the foothills to the San Francisco Bay. Groundwater recharge occurs mostly naturally, through rainfall. Some areas have higher recharge rates than others, depending on factors like soil porosity, clay content, and depth to bedrock. In the Santa Clara Valley, the areas with the highest recharge rates tend to be along the creeks and on the westem edge of the valley floor, just below the toe of the foothills. In the past, wells have supplied water to Town residents during rimes of drought. Conservation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 8 Public Review Draft January 2007 SURFACE WATER 325. Surface water bodies in and around Los Altos Hills include lakes, creeks and San Francisco Bay. Lakes include Quarry Lake, as well as Boronda Lake in Foothills Park and Arastradem Lake in the Arastradero Preserve (both located in Palo Alto). Four major creeks—Matadero, Hale, Barron, and Adobe—run from the foothills to the San Francisco Bay estuary system. In addition to the natural drainage system, a network of storm drains collects runoff from streets and roads in Los Altos Hills and carries it to the creeks and San Francisco Bay. 326. The primary source of water pollution in Los Altos Hills is urban runoff. Runoff from streets, puking lots and private yards may contain oil, grease, pesticides and herbicides, heavy metals, paints and household chemicals, construction materials, sediment and eroded soil. Automobiles are a major source of many of these pollutants. Ultimately, these pollutants end up in creeks and in San Francisco Bay, where they have caused substantial water quality degradation. To improve the quality of stormwater runoff, the Town actively participates in the Santa Clara Valley Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention Program. Best Management Practices for Water Quality The following Best Management Practices (BMPs) can help control the use of pollutants and prevent their discharge into the environment. For Residents: • Proper storage, use and disposal of hazardous household cleaners, fertilizers, pesticide, and garden supplies • Participation in household hazardous waste collection programs • Recycling ofmomr oil and anti -freeze • Refraining from illegal dumping • Reducing vehicle use • Reducing discharges from car washing and maintenance For Contractors: • Proper methods ofpaving, construction and painting • Use ofenvironmentolly safe materials • Proper methods of delivery and storage of materials • Responsible management and disposal of solid waste, contaminated soil, and concrete waste • Erosion control measures • Proper sanitary sewer and septic waste management Conservation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 9 Public Review Draft January 2007 GOAL Protect and conserve water resources. Policy 5.1 Keep or restore major drainage courses in their natural condition insofar as possible because of their importance in supplying major vegetation, land forms and wildlife habitat, and storm drainage. Policy 5.2 Protect the Town's groundwater from the adverse impacts of urban uses. Policy 5.3 Encourage the conservation and efficient use of water in new and existing residences. Policy 5.4 Work with Purissima Hills Water District and Cal Water Service Company in their efforts to encourage water conservation. Policy 5.5 Reduce non -point source pollution in urban runoff. Program 5.1 Encourage the maintenance of adequate groundwater supplies by providing information on retention ponds, vegetative swales, and unpaved drainage ditches. Program 5.2 In the planning, environmental impact review, and completion of all land development or land alteration projects, direct particular attention toward the protection of the natural water system. Program 5.3 Work with Purissima Hills Water District to inform homeowners of their potential water usage in new landscape projects and to recognize the benefits of water efficient landscapes without undue burden to the homeowners. Program 5.4 Consider incentives for property owners meeting certain water conservation criteria. Program 5.5 Continue to promote water conservation through public education. Program 5.6 Actively participate in programs such as the Santa Clara Valley Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention Program to improve the quality of storrnwater runoff. Program 5.7 Continue to implement the Stmanwater Pollution Prevention Ordinance. Program 5.8 Develop and implement public education programs on water quality issues, including Best Management Practices (BMPs) for residents, contractors and Town employees. Program 5.9 Continue to limit the amount of impervious surface in new development to reduce urban runoff into storm drains, creeks and the San Francisco Bay, Conservation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 10 Public Review Draft January 2007 SOIL RESOURCES 327. Soil, a mixture of mineral and organic matter, is produced very slowly as native rock surfaces are eroded by wind, water and gravity. Soil sustains plant life, is an important natural resource, and is a crucial part of the ecosystem. High-quality topsoil can easily be harmed by human activities and can lose its life-sustaining capabilities or be lost to erosion and sedimentation if it is not cared for properly. 328. Soil erosion occurs when soils are removed from their original location and transported by wind, water and gravity. Erosion causes the loss of fertile topsoil, carves deep ruts and gullies, and fills in creeks and marsh lands. Soils settle and accumulate in a particular location during sedimentation. Erosion and sedimentation are natural processes that can speed up when grading and other construction work are done, especially when the work is done near creeks or during the rainy season. Plants shield the soil and bind it together, helping to prevent erosion. It is also important to use proper grading and construction techniques to prevent erosion. 329. Soils can be contaminated when chemicals or other pollutants are improperly released and the soil becomes toxic or harmful to plants, animals and people. The improper use of chemical pesticides and herbicides, as well as spills and leaks can contaminate soils. GOAL Protect and conserve soil resources. Policy 6.1 Encourage soil stabilization measures that mitigate soil erosion and sedimentation. Policy 6.2 Ensure the proper use, storage and disposal of toxic chemicals to prevent soil contamination. Policy 6.3 Minimize the removal of vegetation and require replanting to maintain soil stability, prevent erosion, and retain the aesthetic quality of the community. Program 6.1 Protect and preserve native plant communities next to creeks to help Conservation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page I 1 prevent erosion. Program 6.2 Continue to require erosion control measures on construction sites. Program 6.3 Reduce the use of pesticides and herbicides on Town -owned properties to the extent possible. Program 6.4 Prohibit the damping of any waste material that may harm or destroy soil quality and character. Program 6.5 Ensure that proposed septic systems meet the health and safety standards of Santa Clara County so that soil and groundwater pollution does not occur. Conservation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page I 1 Public Review Draft January 2007 MINERAL RESOURCES 330. Mineral resources that have been found and extracted in the planning area are primarily construction aggregate deposits. Neary Quarry, which supplied base rock for the construction of Moffett Field and crushed rock for Highways 101 and 280, is no longer in operation. In 1996 the Town approved the subdivision of Neary Quarry, which has since been developed with single-family homes. Permanente Quarry owned by Hanson Cement and Gypsum Company is still in operation. The Permanente Quarry is located on unincorporated lands in Santa Clara County, within the Sphere of Influence of the City of Cupertino. The operation is of concern to residents of Los Altos Hills because of its proximity and potential impacts on the surrounding area, particularly Kaiser Ridge. 331. The preservation of Kaiser Ridge, located within the Cupertino Sphere of Influence, will depend on efforts by the City of Cupertino and Santa Clara County to regulate the operation of Hanson Cement and Gypsum Company. The Town should support Cupertino and the County in these efforts and should keep abreast of the quarrying aspects of the Hanson Gypsum operation to ensure that the skyline that has been quarried is rehabilitated. GOAL Minimize environmental impacts of the extraction and transport of mineral resources. Policy 7.1 In the context of the local physical situation, the extraction of rock, sand, gravel and mineral resources shall be permitted only when compatible with goals for maintaining a quality environment. Policy 7.2 Minimize all potentially adverse environmental impacts from extraction and transport of mineral resources, including, but not limited to: • Nuisances such as dust, odor, debris and noise. • Disruption and damage to natural features, such as ground cover, topography, drainage, habitat, groundwater, and related issues. • Increased traffic volumes and damage to road surfaces. Policy 7.3 Ensure the reclamation of mineral resource extraction sites for safe, attractive and beneficial future use. Conservation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 12 Public Review Draft January 2007 ENERGY CONSERVATION 332. Californians have become more energy conscious since the energy crisis of the 1970s. The escalating cost of energy and the ever -decreasing availability of fuel sources have impelled government agencies to conserve energy and look for alternatives to the use of non-renewable resources. 333. The Town of Los Altos Hills demonstrated its commitment to energy efficiency and the use of solar power when the new $4.5 million Town Hall was constructed in 2005. Reduced energy and water consumption were major objectives in the building's design. The new Town Hall features a 30 kW photovoltaic system, which supplies approximately half of the electrical energy used by the municipal center annually. The solar system was made possible in part by a grant from the Packard Foundation of Lot Altos. Another feature of the building is the use of natural day -lighting, including strategically placed solar light tubes to reduce electrical lighting load. New energy-efficient Town Hall Includes drought -tolerant landscaping. Solar panels supply about half of the electrical needs at Town Hall. 334. To encourage the use of solar power, Los Altos Hills has developed the following incentives: • Building pemtit fees are waived for the construction or installation of solar energy generation equipment. • For ground -mounted photovoltaic systems, up to 500 square feet may be exempt from development area calculations. • For roof -mounted photovoltaic systems, a bonus of up to 500 square feet of development area may be granted. Other measures may be proposed by the Environmental Initiatives Committee, a standing committee charged with the development of incentives for energy conservation and other environmental objectives. Conservation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 13 Public Review Draft January 2007 GOALS Promote energy-efficient construction and the use of alternative energy sources. Policy 8.1 Promote the incorporation of energy conservation measures in new The Town's hybrid vehicles are fuel efficient. Conservation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 14 construction. Policy 8.2 Encourage active and passive solar energy design in building and site development. Policy 8.3 Expand the use of alternative fuels for Town vehicles by purchasing hybrids and other fuel-efficient vehicles. Program 8.1 Continue to use Title 24 of the Uniform Building Code to require proper energy conservation for all approved projects. Program 8.2 Incorporate energy efficiency measures in new Town facilities. Program 8.3 Continue to waive permit fees for the installation of solar energy systems. Program 8.4 Continue to offer a bonus in development area for homeowners who install solar energy systems. Program 8.5 Consider preparing and adopting additional incentives and/or an energy conservation ordinance. The Town's hybrid vehicles are fuel efficient. Conservation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 14 Public Review Draft January 2007 WASTE REDUCTION AND RECYCLING 335. Reducing waste provides direct and indirect environmental benefits including cleaner air and water, reduced resource and energy use, and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. California's Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989 set an ambitious goal for cities to divert 50 percent of all solid waste from landfills by 2000 through source reduction, recycling, and composting. The law also requires cities to adopt Source Reduction and Recycling Plans that specify how they will achieve the waste reduction goals. Los Altos Hills adopted such a source reduction plan in 1994. 336. Los Altos Garbage Company (LAGCo) provides residential and commercial garbage and curbside recycling services to the residents of Los Altos Hills. In cooperation with the Town, LAGCo has recently started single -stream recycling, making it possible to use a single container for all recyclables rather than sorting them into different containers. 1nllXn XYI, �a..l.J rasa SiX{h•Sbu! rrra GOAL9 Reduce the amount of solid waste generated in Los Altos Hills. Policy 9.1 Promote source reduction and recycling throughout the community. Program 9.1 Continue to implement the Town's 1994 Source Reduction and Recycling Element. Program 9.2 In Town purchasing, encourage the purchase of products that nin imize packaging, contain recycled materials, and can be reused or recycled. Program 9.3 Consider supporting new ideas and innovative proposals that will promote recycling and other environmentally sound practices. Program 9.4 Continue to work with Los Altos Garbage Company to implement single -stream recycling and other ways to encourage waste reduction and recycling. Conservation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 15 Public Review Draft January 2007 HISTORIC SITES AND STRUCTURES 337. The preservation of historic sites and structures helps maintain and enhance the unique character of Los Altos Hills. Some of the sites listed below have already been recognized for their historic importance and are registered stale historic landmarks. However, the historic importance of all sites listed below should be preserved in a manner most appropriate to the individual site. 338. The Town should explore the possibility of having existing historic structures designated as state historical landmarks. Historic sites without structures may have to be purchased if the Town determines that historic significance warrants preservation in a natural state. In any case, the historic significance of all sites should be evaluated prior to development. At minimum, if the site is found to be of some historic significance, provision for historic commemoration should be required as part of development. In addition, the Town should establish a program for the evaluation and preservation of historical sites. 339. While it is the intent to preserve identified resources for the benefit of the Town, it is recognized that there will be circumstances where it will not always be possible to achieve preservation. Such determinations cannot always be made in advance and therefore prudent decisions must be made when individual resources are before the Town for action. 340. An inventory of historic sites and structures in the Los Altos Hills planning area is listed in Appendix A. The inventory is intended to be reviewed on a regular basis and updated as needed. Heritage House Formerly the Eschenbruecher House in Los Altos, the building was donated to the Town and moved to its present site adjacent to Town Hall in 1984. To acquaint today's residents and visitors with the early 1900s character of the Town, apricot and prune trees were planted behind the building, where a collection of vintage farm equipment is on public display. Conservation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 16 Public Review Draft January 2007 GOAL 10 Encourage both public and private efforts to preserve and enhance historic resources. Policy 10.1 Preserve, protect and enhance the historic resources of the planning area because they are unique and valuable assets for the community and region. Policy 10.2 Promote community awareness of local history and historic resources for the education, pleasure and welfare of the people of the Town. Program 10.1 Continue to develop a comprehensive inventory and map of historically significant sites and structures. Review Appendix A at least every five years and update the inventory as appropriate. Consider adding the following sites and structures: Heritage House, Finn House, Westwind Community Bam, Packard House, Hidden Villa, Ginzion House, Lois Crozier Hogle House, Fremont Hills Country Club Water Tower, Jensen House and Bam, Eshner House, and Stegner House on South Fork. Conservation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 17 Public Review Draft January 2007 ENVIRONMENTAL INTEGRITY 341. The impacts of human development on the natural environment are complex and constantly changing. This section protects the overall integrity of the environment with policies and programs that reduce or mitigate the negative impacts of development in order to make today's health, economic and aesthetic benefits available to future generations. GOAL 11 Promote and enhance the integrity of the natural environment. Policy 11.1 Develop and implement programs by which the natural environmental features of the planning area can be conserved to the maximum extent feasible and by which areas already unduly disturbed by man can be returned to a more natural condition. Policy 11.2 Ensure that in the planning, development and use of land, environmental impact is not overlooked, conservation actions are considered, and such evaluations and actions are sufficiently comprehensive and consistent with established guidelines. Policy 11.3 Conserve the natural character of the planning area in any land development project. Policy 11.4 Ensure that the scale of building, the siting of development, the design and the materials of construction are harmonious with the natural setting. Policy 11.5 Ensure that development projects are designed to conserve the natural slope, preserve existing native vegetation, limit invasive species, and conserve natural drainage channels and swales. Policy 11.6 Participate in and support the conservation efforts of other jurisdictions, agencies or organizations that are of mutual benefit to the Town. Policy 11.7 Support conservation education programs in the local schools and, when necessary to respond to local problems, initiate and implement specific educational programs or campaigns. Program 11.1 Environmental Monitoring — Develop a procedure for monitoring known or potential environmental problems to ensure that irreversible damage will not occur. Examples of problems that should be monitored include stream siltation, pollution of subsurface and surface waters, soil erosion, the potential or imminent danger associated with fire hazard areas (in conjunction with the Santa Clara County Fire Department), soil contamination, and the potential or imminent danger from landslides and Conservation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 18 Public Review Draft January 2007 other effects of land instability. The extent of monitoring activity that can be conducted is constrained by financial limitations. To the extent possible, Town staff should work with informed and concerned citizens to establish a basic procedure for identifying and tracking the existing or potential problems of greatest concern. Program 11.2 Specific Remedial Activities — In some cases, remedial activities may require the participation of all segments of the community in order to be effective. In most cases, however, individual initiative by local residents and property owners will be sufficient to carry out specific efforts for protection of the environment, such as: • Replanting to prevent erosion • Control or elimination of exotic weed species or undesirable trees and plants • Minimal use of herbicides and pesticides to avoid contamination of soil and water • Removal of dead vegetation to reduce fire hazard • Replacement of highly Flammable vegetation with less Flammable materials • Use of native plants in preference to exotics in replanting • Treatment or removal of diseased or hazardous trees • Protection of streamside vegetation These activities may require Town review and approval if they are proposed as part of specific development projects. In cases where the extent of the problem includes an area larger than an individual ownership, cooperative or coordinated effort will be needed. For example, activities such as the removal of any long-standing obstruction to natural drainage or the restoration of stream banks require review and coordination by the Town. Program 11.3 Public Education — Town Hall should serve as a basic source of information on local environmental issues and conservation programs. Town staff, elected officials and committees such as the Open Space Committee and the Environmental Design Committee should encourage efforts to educate the public with regard to the conservation of natural resources in Los Altos Hills. When other public agencies or conservation groups are sponsoring information sessions on subjects of mutual concern, the Town should assist in publicizing events. This can be done through publications that are made available at Town Hall or through notices posted on the website or bulletin boards at Town Hall. Conservation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 19 OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION ELEMENT Public Review Draft January 2007 LOS ALTOS HILLS GENERAL PLAN Public Review Draft January 2007 401. 402. Open Space and Recreation Element INTRODUCTION Residents of Los Altos Hills accord the highest value to the Town's open space and recreation areas. These areas help maintain the unique character and semi -rural atmosphere of Los Altos Hills and provide important balance to the more densely urbanized areas of the San Francisco Day region. In addition, these areas provide significant opportunities for the conservation of natural resources and scenic views as well as the enjoyment of outdoor recreation. The Open Space and Recreation Element addresses the management and use of open space lands in the Los Altos Hills planning area. It also addresses recreation programs and provides guidelines for meeting the - recreation needs of Town residents. The q element is organized into three sections: • Open Space • Recreation Areas and Facilities • Recreation Programs Each section provides an inventory of resources and includes goals, policies and programs related to the specific topics addressed. Aerial View of Byrne Preserve 403. Under California law, open space is a mandatory element of the General Plan. Open space also is addressed in other elements of the General Plan including the Land Use Element, the Conservation Element, and the Pathway Element. Public health and safety issues related to open space are addressed in the Safety Element. 404. Recreation is an optional element of the General Plan. However, the Quimby Act (Section 66477 of the State Government Code) requires cities to have an adopted plan containing policies and standards for park and recreation facilities in order to require the dedication of land or payment of fees for park or recreation purposes. OPEN SPACE 405. Open space resources in the Los Altos Hills planning area include public open space preserves; public and private parks and recreation areas; off-road pathways; and conservation and open space easements on private land, primarily along portions of creek corridors and steep slopes. In addition to providing opportunities for outdoor recreation and the conservation of natural and scenic resources, open space enhances the semi -rural character of the Town and the quality of life for local and regional residents. Open Space and Recreation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page l Public Review Draft January 2007 ACCESSIBILTfY 406. Publicly owned open space preserves such as Byme Preserve are accessible to the public. Private lands protected by conservation and open space easements are not accessible to the public unless they include a dedicated off-road pathway. Off-road pathways allow the public to cross through private property; public access is limited to the dedicated pathway and does not extend to other portions of private land even when it is protected by a conservation or open space easement that has been dedicated to the Town of Los Altos Hills. THE TOWN'S OPEN SPACE LEGACY 407. Los Altos Hills has a long history of protecting open space, a history highlighted by acts of generosity on the part of conservation -minded individuals as well as the continued efforts by the Town and groups of dedicated residents. These efforts have resulted in the permanent protection of several local treasures, including Byme Preserve and Westwind Community Barn. 408. Byme Preserve was originally established in the mid -sixties through the generosity of Dr. Albert Byme, who donated a scenic 55 -acre parcel of open grassland to the Nature Conservancy. The Town then voted to increase property taxes in order to purchase the property from the Nature Conservancy. Additional fundraising efforts aided by generous contributions from prominent individuals later allowed the Town to expand the preserve. Today Byme Preserve comprises 88 acres of grassland and woodlands that are permanently protected as Townowned open space used by the public for horseback riding, hiking and outdoor education. 409. Adjacent to Byre Preserve, Westwind Community Barn is another Town -owned treasure that has been preserved through individual generosity and public foresight. In 1975, the Town purchased a portion of the 15 -acre property and the Countess Margit Bessenyey donated to the Town the remaining land and the 24,000 -square -foot bam. The Town now leases the barn to the Friends of Westwind, a private non-profit organization that manages the facility. Open Space and Recreation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 2 Westwind Community Barn The facility is used for: • Stabling of horses • Riding instruction • 4-H therapeutic riding program for disabled children • Horse management classes • Summer riding camp • Home to the Pacific Ridge Chapter of the U.S. Pony Club Public Review Draft January 2007 REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT 410. The Town of Los Altos Hills was one of the first cities to support the creation of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, a special district formed in 1972. Supported by property tax monies, MROSD is responsible for the acquisition and protection of open space in the undeveloped area surrounding Los Altos Hills. OPEN SPACE INITIATIVE 411. On December 19, 2002, the City Council unanimously adopted an open space initiative that reaffirmed the community's commitment to the preservation of open space as stated below. Residents of Los Altos Hills accord the highest value to the Town's open space and recreation areas. These areas, many of which are owned by the Town itself, help supply and preserve the unique character and semi -rural atmosphere of Los Altos Hills, provide importam balance to the more densely urbanized San Francisco Bay plain, and provide numerous recreational, scenic, open space, and conservation resources and opportunities for the Town and its residents. Open Space Initiative, 2002 412. With adoption of the Open Space Initiative, the General Plan was amended to add Policy 1. 10, which ensures that Town -owned open space and recreation properties will not be sold or developed for other uses without a vote of the people. In addition, the Land Use Diagram was amended to designate additional Open Space Preserves and Public Recreation Areas. OPEN SPACE PRESERVES 413. The Town of Los Altos Hills is surrounded by large expanses of open space to the west and south. Constraints to development in this area include steep slopes and geologic hazards such as landslides, earthquake faults and other areas of extreme relative geologic instability, inaccessibility due to ridge alignment; difficulty in providing water and other services; and fire hazard including limitations to fire equipment response. The ridges are also important for their scenic qualities visible from many vantage points within the Town and the Mid -Peninsula region. To protect these areas and ensure that they remain free of development, local residents and public agencies have worked to establish open space preserves. 414. Open space preserves are undeveloped, natural areas that provide wildlife habitat, scenic views, and opportunities for nature study and low -impact outdoor recreation. These lands are owned by various public agencies including the Town of Los Altos Hills, the City of Palo Alto, and the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (MROSD). Open Space and Recreation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 3 Public Review Draft January 2007 415. A large area south of Moody Road and southwest of Interstate 280 has been designated and protected as open space through the acquisition of land by public agencies. MROSD has purchased most of this area, including Rancho San Antonio, the Neary Quarry Ridge area, and the Windmill Pasture area. In addition, the Town has acquired an area on the upper slopes of Marietta Lane. The steeper slopes below the ridge areas are under private ownership, but conservation or open space easements have been placed over much of the land. Hidden Villa also is in private ownership and should be encouraged to remain as open space. The Town should also encourage the cities of Palo Alto and Los Altos to keep open space lands in their undeveloped, natural condition because they enhance the semi -rural, open character of Los Approach to Windmill Pasture from Rancho San Antonio Town -owned Open Space and Recreation Areas Open Space Preserves Size (Acres) Byrne Preserve 88 Juan Prado Mesa Preserve 13 Murietta Ridge Preserve 14 O'Keefe Lane Preserve 8 Rhus Ridge Preserve 5 Central Drive Preserve 1 Saddle Mountain Preserve -2 132 acres Recreation Areas and Facilities Westwind Community Sam 15 Edith Park 1 Little League Fields & Riding Arena 1Q 26 acres Open Space and Recreation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 4 Public Review Draft January 2007 416. Town -owned Open Space Preserves The following open space preserves are owned and managed by the Town of Los Altos Hills: • Byrne Preserve is the largest and most significant open space area in Los Altos Hills. The area consists of 88 acres of grasslands and woodlands located along the upper length of Altamont Road and adjacent to Westwind Community Ram. The land was purchased by the Town in 1968 from the Nature Conservancy. Under the purchase agreement, the Town is required to keep the land in open space. Byrne Preserve is used for horseback riding, hiking and outdoor education, as well as grazing horses. • Juan Prada Mesa Preserve consists of 13 acres located between Dawson Drive and Neary Lake. The area can be reached by off-road pathways leading from Dawson Drive, Kate Drive and Stonebrook Drive. The area features a pathway through the Hale Creek canyon and provides a number of scenic, open space and recreation opportunities. • Marietta Ridge Preserve consists of 14 acres located south of Moody Road. This area serves as a valuable open space buffer between Hidden Villa and the adjacent MROSD open space preserve, and provides a heavily wooded refuge for a variety of animals, birds, and native plants and trees. This area is relatively inaccessible and is considered to be more appropriate for conservation than for recreation use. • O'Keefe Lane Preserve consists of 8 acres located north of Interstate 280 along O'Keefe Lane. This beautiful area includes two recreational pathways, a magnificent Heritage Oak, and shady, creekside thickets that provide shelter for both land animals and pond -dwellers. Access is provided by a footbridge off O'Keefe Lane. • Rhus Ridge Preserve consists of approximately 5 acres located south of Moody Road. This area provides access to MROSD open space preserves via the Rhus Ridge pathway and a scenic pathway that connects the off-road trail from Hidden Villa to the Rhus Ridge hiking area and Summit Road. • Central Drive Preserve is a narrow, I -acre strip of undeveloped land adjacent to the western boundary of Byrne Preserve and provides an extension of the larger preserve. • Saddle Mountain Preserve is 3 acres located near the junction of Arastradero and Page Mill Roads, between Saddle Mountain Drive and Stirrup Way, and includes a walking path. Open Space and Recreation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 5 Public Review Draft January 2007 417. MROSD Open Space Preserves In addition to the Town -owned preserves listed above, several open space preserves owned and managed by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (MROSD) are located adjacent to or near the Town: • Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve is a 3,800 -acre preserve located to the south of Los Altos Hills. The preserve has 23 miles of trails for hiking, bike riding, or horseback riding. Rancho San Antonio can be accessed by off-road pathways on the Los Altos Hills borders. • Foothills Open Space Preserve consists of 211 acres located in the Adobe Creek watershed above Hidden Villa Ranch and adjacent to Palo Alto's Foothills Park. • Monte Bello Open Space Preserve consists of 2,943 acres that encompass the upper Stevens Creek watershed from Monte Bello Ridge to Skyline Ridge. The Stevens Creek riparian corridor is considered to be one of the finest in the Santa Cruz Mountains. • Los Trancos Open Space Preserve is a 274 -acre area located in the foothills off Page Mill Road. The preserve is split by the San Andreas Fault and is an excellent place to study earthquake geology. Open Space and Recreation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 7 Public Review Draft January 2007 418. City of Palo Alto Open Space Preserves • Enid W. Pearson-Arastradero Preserve is a 609 -acre open space preserve located in the foothills on the west side of Highway 280. The preserve is owned and maintained by the City of Palo Alto and can be accessed by off- road pathways in Los Altos Hills. • Foothills Park is a 1,400 -acre recreation area located 2.7 miles west of Highway 280 at 3300 Page Mill Road. The park is adjacent to the Town of Los Altos Hills and within its planning area, but the park is open only to residents of Palo Alto. Planning and Zoning Open space preserves are designated Open Space Preserve (OSP) on the Land Use Diagram and zoned Open Space Reserve (OSR). Permitted uses in the OSR zoning district include agriculture, forestry, and low -impact outdoor recreation such as horseback riding, hiking and bird watching. No buildings or other development are allowed. Steep canyons and creek corridors that should be protected are designated as Open Space Conservation Areas on the Land Use Diagram. Development in these areas is generally limited to off-road pathways; no structures are allowed. In addition to canyons and creek corridors, visually important open space lands associated with major religious and educational institutional facilities or with Stanford Industrial Park are designated Open Space Conservation Areas. Other open space lands that are used primarily for recreation are designated Public Recreation Area or Private Recreation Area on the Land Use Diagram. These recreation areas are protected from other types of development and uses. Open Space and Recreation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 8 Public Review Draft January 2007 GOAL Protect and preserve open space lands for future generations. Policy 1.1 Provide, during the development process, for the maximum feasible preservation of open space in and adjoining the Town, with spaces ranging in size from regional scale to small-scale open space on individual lots. Policy 1.2 Protect and maintain those areas necessary to the integrity of natural resources and processes, with special emphasis on, but not limited to, the groundwater recharge and drainage system, open spaces vital for wildlife habitat, open spaces suitable for agriculture, and other areas of major or unique ecological significance. Policy 13 Provide open space for outdoor recreational needs and for the preservation of sites of historical and cultural significance. Policy 1.4 Preserve the natural beauty and minimize disturbance of the natural terrain and vegetation. Policy 1.5 Preserve the important vistas, such as Monte Bello, Kaiser, Neary and Ewing Hill Ridges, and the hillsides leading to these ridges. Policy 1.6 Preserve open space where necessary for the protection of public health and safety. Policy 1.7 To the extent possible, link open spaces together visually and physically to form a system of open spaces. Policy 1.8 Ensure that land uses and structures are compatible with the general open space quality of the planning area. Policy 1.9 Actively support, to the extent possible, the efforts of Palo Alto residents to preserve their open space lands. Policy 1.10 The lands owned by the Town of Los Altos Hills commonly known as Byrne Preserve, Central Drive, Joan Prado Mesa Preserve, O'Keefe Property, Rhus Ridge Properties, Marietta Ridge, Little League Fields on Purissima Road, Westwind Community Barn, and Edith Park shall not be conveyed, sold or abandoned in whole or in part for any purpose, except pursuant to a vote of the Town electorate; provided, however, that this paragraph shall not require a vote of the electorate for any conveyance by the City of a leasehold, easement, or other property interest in these lands for a use consistent with the property's General Plan designation. Policy 1.11 Encourage the use of Marietta Ridge Preserve as a conservation area, rather than a recreation area, in order to protect the existing vegetation and wildlife habitat. Open Space and Recreation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 9 Public Review Draft January 2007 Policy 1.12 Ensure that open space lands achieve the following objectives: Preserve visually and environmentally significant open spam resources; and • Provide for recreation activities compatible with the enjoyment and preservation of each site's natural resources, with pathway linkages to adjacent and nearby parks and open spam preserves. Program 1.1 Continue to encourage the voluntary grant of conservation easements on open space and environmentally sensitive areas. For example, the Crozier-Hogle conservation easement was voluntarily granted to protect I 1 acres that abut Stanford University open space lands. Program 1.2 Continue to require the dedication of open space easements as a condition of approval for development of parcels in designated Open Space Conservation Areas in order to protect steep slopes, canyons and ravines, generally in excess of 30% slope, as well as areas with Heritage oak trees, or other environmentally sensitive areas such as along creeks and riparian corridors. Program 1.3 Continue to require the dedication of pathway easements and the construction of pathways or payment of in -lieu fees when development is proposed on parcels that include portions of on -road or off-road pathways designated on the Pathway Master Plan. Program 1.4 Encourage the cities of Palo Alto and Los Altos to keep open space lands that are within their city limits or spheres of influence (such as the Upper Foothills, Amstradem Preserve, Foothill Park, Stanford University Lands, Esther Clark Park, the EI Retiro Retreat Site and Redwood Grove) in their undeveloped, natural condition because they enhance the semi-mml, open character of Los Altos Hills. Program 1.5 Explore and encourage tax relief programs such as the Williamson Act, income tax allowances for land gifts, and other kinds of financial rebates that can provide effective incentives to property owners interested in protecting their land. Program 1.6 Not all lands with significant open space value, whose maintenance may be essential for preservation of the area's atmosphere and character, are identified in this element. Other open lands of various scales exist that the community may feel deserve preservation, including open hillsides adjacent to major corridors of movement such as Interstate 280, which has been designated as a State scenic highway. It is especially important, therefore, that the Town inventory and analyze medium and small-scale open spaces in the Town and add recommendations to this plan to ensure that all land significant to the maintenance of community character will be preserved. Open Space and Recreation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 10 Public Review Draft January 2007 Putting Action into the General Plan Conservation and Open Space Easements State law enables the Town to accept or acquire easements from private landowners for open space and resource conservation purposes. The grant of conservation and open space easements is, in effect, a transfer of development rights. The deed granting an easement to the Town restricts the use of the transferred property to open space or resource conservation activities. Lands subject to conservation or open space easements are still under private ownership; the easements are held by the Town, but the public does not have access to the property. Conservation and open space easements provide a form of tax relief to property owners. For property tax purposes, the value of lands subject to conservation or open space easements is established on the basis of the easement restrictions rather than potential development uses. This form of tax relief provides landowners with an incentive to grant easements. There is a subtle distinction between conservation easements and open space easements as defined by state law. Under the Conservation Easement Act (Civil Code sections 815-816), a conservation easement is voluntarily created and is perpetual in duration. Pursuant to the Open Space Easement Act of 1974 (Government Code section 51070 at seq.), an open space easement can be required by the Town as a condition of approval for site development permits and other entitlements. The Town must have an adopted open space element as a prerequisite to acquiring an open space easement, and the easement must be consistent with the Town's General Plan. In establishing conservation and open space easements, landowners and the Town agree upon the permitted land uses within the conservation area. The easement is binding upon successive owners of the land. Open Space and Recreation Element Las Altos Hills General Plan Page 11 Public Review Draft RECREATION AREAS AND FACILITIES 419. PUBLIC RECREATION AREAS The following parks and recreation areas are owned and managed by the Town of Los Altos Hills: • The Little League Fields and Town Riding Arena on Purissima Road are home to the Town's Parks and Recreation Department programs as well as the local Little League program and various horsemanship programs. The Town has enjoyed a long- standing relationship with the Little League, which uses the fields on a regular basis. In addition, the Town rents the fields to individuals and groups. The Town Riding Arena�� provides equestrian facilities for Town residents and is co -managed - - - by the Los Altos Hills Horsemen s Association. Town Riding Arena • Westwind Community Barn, located at Black Mountain and Altamont Roads, is a 24,000 -square -foot, "U" shaped bam on approximately 15 acres. The facility is leased to the Friends of Westwind, a private non-profit organization that has managed the facility since 1978. The facility is used for riding, boarding and pasturing horses, as well as equestrian events. Residents of the Town have priority for membership. Westwind Barn and its adjacent facilities currently house the Westwind 4-H Riding for the Handicapped program, the Pacific Ridge Chapter of the United States Pony Club, and various recreation programs sponsored by the Town's Parks and Recreation Department. Originally constructed in the 1940's, Westwind Barn needs restoration and seismic updates. • Edith Park is located at Edith and Fremont Roads along Adobe Creek and serves as a gateway to Los Altos Hills. The park features a plaque commemorating the Duan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail, which is used as a route to the Bullis-Purissima school grounds. In addition to the Town -awned facilities listed above, several other publicly -owned recreation facilities are located in or near the Town and would benefit residents if greater access were trade available: • Publicly owned school facilities such as Bullis-Purissim t School, Pinewood School, and Foothill Community College can potentially serve as a vital supplement to the Town -owned Little League Fields and Riding Arena. • Esther Clark Park is located at the end of Old Trace Road off of Arastradero Road in the northeast portion of the Town's planning area, adjacent to Los Altos Hills. The park is an undeveloped nature preserve that offers opportunities for hiking, riding and nature study. The park is owned by the City of Palo Alto and is accessible to residents of Los Altos Hills via the Town's pathway system. Open Space and Recreation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 12 Public Review Draft January 2007 420. PRIVATE RECREATION FACILrrIES • Hidden Villa is a 1,600 -acre open space preserve that is owned and operated by a private non-profit corporation known as the Trust for Hidden Villa. Located on Moody Road, Hidden Villa consists of an educational farm, wilderness area, visitor center, nature shop, trails and a youth hostel. The hostel is available for day or overnight use, and the farm and hiking trails are open to visitors on a limited basis. • Fremont Hills Country Club is located in Los Altos Hills and provides swimming, tennis and horseback riding opportunities. • The Palo Alto Hills Golf and Country Club and the Los Altos Country Club supply private golfing facilities, as well as large, attractive open spaces new Town boundaries. • The University Club of Palo Alto and the Foothills Tennis and Swim Club in Palo Alto provide swimming and tennis opportunities close to Los Altos Hills. • Stanford University lands are located in the foothills west of Interstate 280, adjacent to the Arastradero Preserve, and provide trails that are accessible to the public from Junipero Sera Boulevard. • Private boarding stables provide other important private recreation facilities. 421. PATHWAYS The Town of Los Altos Hills has a unique system of public paths that meander across hills and valleys, connecting various parts of the community. This network of roadside and off-road paths is a valuable recreation asset for residents, providing non -motorized access to the Town for walkers, mnners, bicyclists and equestrians. Additional information about pathways is available in the Pathway Element and the Pathway Master Plan. Pathways provide access to reGreatlon areas. 422. HISTORIC SITES AND STRUCTURES Historic places, buildings and landmarks can provide significant recreation and education resources. Historic preservation is addressed in the Conservation Element, and an inventory of historic sites and structures is provided in Appendix A. Open Space and Recreation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 13 Public Review Draft January 2007 GOAL Provide recreation areas and facilities that meet the neighborhood and community needs of Town residents. Policy 2.1 Open space preserves shall provide a variety of recreational experiences such as hiking, riding and free play, as well as visual pleasure. Policy 2.2 Recreation activities requiring organized and developed spaces such as basketball and soccer shall be accommodated at public recreation areas and school sites rather than in open space preserves. Policy 23 Public recreation areas shall be specifically adapted to meet local needs and interests. Policy 2.4 The private sector shall be encouraged to supply specialized recreation facilities that are not deemed a Town responsibility. Policy 2.5 Trails and paths shall continue to be a major recreation facility in the Town and should link all recreation areas. Policy 2.6 New residential subdivisions shall provide open space for recreation in order to meet their appropriate share of local recreation needs. Policy 2.7 Park and recreation areas shall be utilized, and uses controlled, so as to not adversely affect the surrounding residential areas. Policy 2.8 The acquisition and development of new parks and recreation areas shall be pursued when necessary to meet the recreational needs and interests of Town residents. Program 2.1 Continue to require subdividers to dedicate land for parks and recreation or, in the alternative, pay fees through which residential developments might facilitate park land acquisition. The standard for park and recreation dedications or in lieu fees established under the Quimby Act is a maximum of 5 acres per 1,000 population. Program 2.2 Continue to require the dedication of pathway easements as a condition of approval of tentative maps and site development permits for new residences and major additions, consistent with the Pathway Element and the Master Pathway Plan. Where deemed appropriate, the actual construction of these pathways will be required as per Town standards. Program 2.3 Continue to evaluate the recreation needs of the community and the availability of resources. Program 2.4 Study and establish mechanisms for funding and maintaining new park acquisitions. Open Space and Recreation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 14 Public Review Draft January 2007 Program 2.5 Consider acquisition of parkland under any of the following conditions: • Where community need or use demands. • Where the acquisition can provide greenbelt connections between open spaces. • When acquisition opportunities arise. Program 2.6 Individual citizens, community organizations, and businesses should be encouraged to aid in parkland acquisition, development and maintenance. PARKS AND RECREATION STANDARDS 1. All residential areas should have public land available for recreation within approximately one-half to one mile distances. This requirement may be met by Open Space Preserve land in public ownership and by public recreation areas. 2. The acreage of public land available for recreation shall be not less than five percent of the residential area of the Town. These areas should be located or distributed as equitably as possible throughout the Town. THE OUIMBY ACT Section 66477 of the Government Code provides local jurisdictions with the authority to acquire parkland in association with new land divisions. Commonly referred to as the Quimby Act, this provision of state law allows a city, by ordinance, to require the dedication of land, payment of an in -lieu fee, or a combination of both, for park and recreational purposes as a condition of approval for a subdivision map. Local ordinances must establish specific standards for determining the proportion of the subdivision that must be dedicated and the amount of fees to be paid. Los Altos Hills has adopted such an ordinance (included in the Subdivision Ordinance) to require the dedication of land and/or the payment of in lieu fees for the purpose of providing park and recreational facilities. Revenues generated under the Quimby Act cannot be used for operation or maintenance of park facilities. Open Space and Recreation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 15 Public Review Draft January 2007 PARKS AND RECREATION PROGRAMS 423. Historically Los Altos Hills preferred not to spend the Town's scarce resources on recreation programming, opting instead to invest in open space, pathways, and recreation facilities, horse facilities and similar amenities. Town residents who sought recreational programs found opportunities in adjacent cities. However, as it became increasingly difficult for Town residents to participate in other recreation programs, the need arose for programs within Los Altos Hills. Started originally with volunteer labor, the Los Altos Hills recreation program has grown, and there is now a full-time staff position devoted to developing and maintaining recreation programs. 424. The Los Altos Hills Parks and Recreation Department provides or facilitates a variety of activities and programs that serve the needs of Town residents of all ages. These programs include the following: • Youth camps such as Ohlone camp, summer riding camp, and various sports and non -athletic camps. • Fitness and yoga classes. • Pet programs such as the annual community dog walk and the Hoppin' Hounds Easter Egg Hunt. •. Equestrian programs such as horseback riding at Westwind Barn and the Town's public riding arena. • Special events such as the annual Pathways Run. • The annual Town Picnic sponsored by the Hoppin' Hounds Easter Egg Hunt Community Relations Committee. Annual Pathways Run Open Space and Recreation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 16 Public Review Draft January 2007 GOAL Provide recreation programs that meet neighborhood and community needs of Town residents. Policy 3.1 The Town shall support continued and expanded recreation programs for Los Altos Hills residents of all ages. Policy 3.2 Recreation activities and programs shall be located and designed to be compatible with the long-term sustainability of each site's natural resources, with particular attention to the preservation of unique, rare, or endangered resources (including historic and archeological sites, as well as plant and animal species). Policy 3.3 The Town shall continue to develop partnerships with local school districts and community organizations to expand recreation programs and facilities. Program 3.1 Develop a comprehensive Recreation Plan for existing and future recreation facilities and programs. Program 3.2 Support and coordinate with organizations such as the Los Altos Little League, the Los Altos Hills Horsemen's Association, the Friends of Westwind Barn, and other groups involved in recreation activities in the community. Open Space and Recreation Element Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 17 i the art to 1. APPENDIX A INVENTORY OF HISTORIC SITES AND STRUCTURES Public Review Draft January 2007 LOS ALTOS HILLS GENERAL PLAN APPENDIX A Inventory of Historic Sites and Structures The sites and structures listed below have been determined to be historic resources in the Los Altos Hills Planning Area. This list should be reviewed at least every five years and updated as necessary, consistent with Program 9.1 of the Conservation Element. • Ohlone Indian Village Site (1700'5) O'Keefe Lane and EI Monte Avenue, Los Altos and Los Altos Hills, Registered Historical Point of Interest, SCI 015. • Indian Spring (1700's) Magdalena Avenue, permanent year-round source of water, through the Indian period and since. • Indian Meditation (or Lookout) Point (1700'5) La Cresta Avenue. Bows and arrows were found behind this site. • Juan Prado Mesa Adobe Site (1840) Summerhill and EI Monte Avenues. Historical Point of Interest applied for. • Juana Briones Adobe (I840's) Old Trace Road, Palo Alto. • M. LM. L. Koenig Residence (1800's) Old Altos Road. • Hidden Villa (1860's) Moody Road.. Includes stage stop, blacksmith shop, bam, and olive trees planted by the padres. • Old Trace Road (1860's) Fremont Avenue, near Amstradero Road, Palo Alto. Originally was a trail over which redwood logs were hauled from hills to the bay for shipping. • Moody Road (1888) petitioned for by G. W. Moody in 1867. Ran from the San lose -San Francisco Road to the Moody Home. Old Indian trail, lumber road, and stage road. • Gardner Bullis Residence (1870s) Manuela Avenue. Original three rooms built during this time. • Frenchmen's Tower (1874) Old Page Mill Road, south of Palo Alto. Built by Peter Coutts for water storage for his cattle farm and racing stable. • Thomas Wright Home (1880's) (W. D. Frampton) Magdalena Avenue, built by J. P. Hale for his foreman, Thomas Wright. Has undergone many changes. • Captain Merx Home (1895) (Dubrov) Dori Lane and Robleda. Merx's house, fruit -house, and shed are now individually owned. First school classes were held in the fruit -house, 1901-1922, while the one -room Purissima School was being built. • William P. Huth Residence (1900's) Lennox Way and Burke Avenue. Former owner, Professor Madison of Stanford. Appendix A Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 1 • Francis Avidano Home (1900'5) Robleda Avenue. Architecturally unique. • W. K. H Panofsky Home (1900's) Chapin Road. Built by a sea captain; architecturally unique. • Willard M. Griffin Home (1901) 12345 EI Monte Avenue. Griffin, a shipbuilder from Maine, built this home in 1901. The status of the house is currently jeopardized because Foothill College wants to tear it down. The carnage house, which now houses the Foothill College Fire Department, was built in 1906, as was the Japanese shrine situated by the District Offices. • One -room Purissima School (1902) Chapel in the Hills, Robleda and Duval Way. The first school of the area, used until 1953 for school purposes, then rented out for social gatherings and town meetings. The Town of Los Altos Hills used it for their early meetings. Now owned and operated by the Chapel in the Hills. • Cosmo George Morgan "Little Gables" (1910) Stonebrook Avenue. Built by his son Percy. Later home of William Simrell, founder of Los Altos Hills. • Perry Morgan Mansion (1914-1915) Stonebrook Avenue. Tudor style house with beaded glass panes and fireplace from Europe. Four stone pieces from the home of Brinsley Sheridan, London, dated 1660 and 1705. Was the Ford Country Day School, now privately owned and restored. • Thomas Shumate Residence (1915) on Viscaino Drive. Original walls still exist. Was operated as the Happy Hours Nursery School and Hills Elementary School. Now a private residence. • Homer -Hill Barn and Silo (1915) Moody Road. • Arthur E. Fowle Home (1925) on Esperanza Drive. Home of the first honorary mayor of Los Altos Hills. Elected to office but died before being seated. • Adobe Creek Lodge (1935) Moody Road. Built as an English country estate for Milton Haas. Now a private residence. • C. Earl Dawson Residence (1948) Magdalena Avenue. This beautiful estate carries the name Rancho San Antonio. • Sydney W Treat Home (1948) Robleda Avenue. Home of the first mayor of the Town of Los Altos Hills. • Los Altos Hills Town Hall (1956) 26379 Fremont Road. The site of the first Town Hall, which was totally rebuilt in 2005. • Corbetta "Parasol" Home (1960) Corbetta Lane. Architecturally unique. Composed of three identical structures with scalloped parasols. The first one built as a "party house" to entertain guests. Three years later, the other two were added to complete the nine -room house, which is surrounded by a man-made lake. Rebuilt in 1998. Appendix A Los Altos Hills General Plan Page 2 ATTACHMENT 3, Summary of Proposed New Policies and Programs POLICIES AND PROGRAMS THAT ARE ALREADY BEING IMPLEMENTED PER CITY COUNCIL'S DIRECTION WATER RESOURCES—Conservation Element Program 5.3 Work with Purissima Hills Water District to inform homeowners of their potential water usage in new landscape projects and to recognize the benefits of water efficient landscapes without undue burden to the homeowners. Program 5.4 Consider incentives for property owners meeting certain water conservation criteria. As per City Council Resolution 122-06 on 12/14/06. ENERGY CONSERVATION—Conservation Element Policy 8.1 Promote the incorporation of energy conservation measures in new construction. Policy 8.2 Encourage active and passive solar energy design in building and site development. Policy 8.3 Expand the use of alternative fuels for Town vehicles by purchasing hybrids and other fuel•emcient vehicles. Program 8.1 Continue to use Title 24 of the Uniform Building Code to require proper energy conservation for all approved projects. Program 8.2 Incorporate energy efficiency measures in new Town facilities. Program 8.3 Continue to waive permit fees for the installation of solar energy systems. Program 8.4 Continue to offer a bonus in development area for homeowners who install solar energy systems. Program 8.5 Consider preparing and adopting additional incentives and/or an energy conservation ordinance. Recommended by the Environmental Initiatives Committee. Consistent with Ord. 446 approved by City Council 5/11/06; Ord. 500 approved by City Council 7/13/06; and City Council Resolution 1-06 on 1/11/07. Summary of New Policies & Programs February 1, 2007 Page 1 WASTE REDUCTION AND RECYCLING—Conservation Element Policy 9.1 Promote source reduction and recycling throughout the community. Program 9.1 Continue to implement the Town's 1994 Source Reduction and Recycling Element. Program 9.2 In Town purchasing, encourage the purchase of products that minimize packaging, contain recycled materials, and can be reused or recycled. Program 9.3 Consider supporting new ideas and innovative proposals that will promote recycling and other environmentally sound practices. Program 9.4 Continue to work with Los Altos Garbage Company to implement single -stream recycling and other ways to encourage waste reduction and recycling. Recommended by the Environmental Initiatives Committee. Programs are consistent with the Town's current practice. RECREATION AREAS AND FACILITIES—Open Space & Recreation Element Policy 2.8 The acquisition and development of new parks and recreation areas shall be pursued when necessary to meet the recreational needs and interests of Town residents. Program 2.4 Study and establish mechanisms for funding and maintaining new park acquisitions. Program 2.5 Consider acquisition of parkland under any of the following conditions: Where community need or use demands. Where the acquisition can provide greenbelt connections between open spaces. When acquisition opportunities arise. Program 3.1 Develop a. comprehensive Recreation Plan for existing and future recreation facilities and programs. Recommended by the Parks and Recreation Committee. Policy 2.8 and Programs 2.4 & 2.5 are consistent with City Council's Town Goals. Program 3.1 is similar to the existing Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan 2004. Summary of New Policies & Programs February 1, 2007 Page 2 POLICIES AND PROGRAMS INTRODUCED BY TOWN COMMITTEES CREEKS AND RIPARIAN CORRIDORS --Conservation Element Program 1.4 Develop a comprehensive riparian policy that compiles and clarifies all relevant requirements for affected property owners. Program 1.5 Develop a program to manage and control invasive species within critical riparian condors (e.g., Matadero Creek). Recommended by the Open Space Committee. TREES AND PLANTS—Conservation Element Policy 2.5 Encourage the removal and prevention of the spreading of aggressive exotics such as pampas grass, acacia, yellow star thistle, French broom, Scotch broom and eucalyptus. Recommended by the Open Space Committee and the Environmental Design and Protection Committee. WILDLIFE SPECIES AND HABITAT—Conservation Element 315. Wildlife move through the planning area along natural passageways, particularly in riparian areas that provide sources of food, water and shelter. Most wildlife corridors are located in areas designated as Open Space Conservation Areas. However, increased fencing by property owners is blocking the movement of wildlife and forcing them into detrimental movement patterns. Wildlife condors should be identified and fencing should not be allowed to restrict the movement of wildlife through these corridors. Policy 3.1 Ensure that in the design and construction of public and private developments, wildlife habitat will be protected to the maximum extent feasible, with special emphasis on protecting the habitat of any endangered species. Policy 3.2 Review all subdivision and site development proposals to ensure that they do not obstruct wildlife access to important water, food, migration and breeding areas. Program 3.1 Consider requiring a biology report, prepared by a qualified biologist, to determine if wildlife habitat (particularly of endangered species) will be encroached upon by any proposed public or private project on parcels over 8 acres in size where such encroachment appears likely. Summary of New Policies & Programs February 1, 2007 Page 3 Program 3.2 Continue to enforce the fence ordinance, which requires that fencing be located and constructed to allow the movement of wildlife through conservation/open space easements and wildlife corridors. Program 3.3 Identify and map important wildlife corridors for use in land use planning and permitting and the protection of wildlife habitat. Recommended by the Open Space Committee. Summary of New Policies & Programs February 1, 2007 Page 4 ATTACHMENT !L- TOWN L TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS NEGATIVE DECLARATION PROJECT TITLE: Los Altos Hills General Plan Update PREPARED BY: Debbie Pedro, AICP, Planning Director NAME AND ADDRESS OF PROJECT SPONSOR: Town of Los Altos Hills 26379 Fremont Road Los Altos Hills, California 94022 LOCATION OF PROJECT: Town of Los Altos Hills (Townwide) PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The proposed project is an update to the Los Altos Hills General Plan. The updated sections have been developed by the General Plan Update Committee as part of the Town's 2007 General Plan Update project. The elements to be updated are divided into two groups. Phase 1 includes an update to the Introduction, Open Space & Recreation, and Conservation Elements. Phase 2 includes the Land Use, Noise, and Safety Elements. Circulation & Scenic Roadways, Housing and Pathways Elements are the more recent sections of the General Plan and will not be updated at this time. FINDING: The Town of Los Altos Hills bas completed a review of the proposed project, and on the basis of the attached Initial Study, has determined that the project will not have a significant effect on the environment. 1/8(0, Debbie Pedro, Planning Director Date TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS Circulated on: January 8 2007 Adopted Town of Los Altos Hills 26379 Fremont Road Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 INITIAL STUDY in accordance with the policies regarding implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970, this document, combined with the attached supporting data, constitutes the initial study on the subject project. This initial study provides the basis for the determination of whether the project may have a significant effect on the environment. If it is determined that the project may have a significant effect on the environment, an environmental impact report will be prepared which focuses on the areas of concern identified by this initial study. If it is determined that the project would not have a significant effect on the environment, it is eligible for a Negative Declaration. If it is determined that the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, however, the significant effects of the project have been reduced to a less -than -significant level because revisions in the project have been made by or agreed to by the project applicant, then the project would be eligible for a Mitigated Negative Declaration. PROJECT TITLE Los Altos Hills General Plan Update LEAD AGENCY NAME AND ADDRESS Town of Los Altos Hills 26379 Fremont Road Los Altos Hills, California 94022 CONTACT PERSON AND PHONE NUMBER Debbie Pedro, AICP, Planning Director (650) 941-7222 PROJECT LOCATION Town of Los Altos Hills (Townwide) PROJECT SPONSOR'S NAME AND ADDRESS Town of Los Altos Hills 26379 Fremont Road, Los Altos Hills CA 94022 GENERAL PLAN DESIGNATION Various ZONING Various DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT: (Describe the whole action involved, including but not limited to, later phases of the project, and any secondary, support, or off-site features necessary for its implementation. Attach additional sheets if necessary): The proposed project is an update to the Los Altos Hills General Plan. The updated sections have been developed by the General Plan Update Committee as par of the Town's 2007 General Plan Update project. The elements to be updated are divided into two groups. Phase 1 includes an update to the Introduction, Open Space & Recreation, and Conservation Elements. Phase 2 includes the Land Use, Noise, and Safety Elements. Circulation & Scenic Roadways, Housing and Pathways Elements are the more recent sections of the General Plan and will not be updated at this time. Elements Required by State Law Los Altos Hills General Plan Elements Phase t Amendments Phase 2 Amendments Introduction ✓ Land Use Land Use ✓ Circulation Circulation & Scenic Roadways — — Housing Housing — — Open Space Open Space & Recreation ✓ Conservation Conservation ✓ Noise Noise ✓ Safety Safety ✓ Pathways — — The purpose of the update is to conect errors, inaccuracies and obsolete references and to produce a more accurate, legible, and reproducible document, including improved graphics that accurately depict existing conditions in the Town. The proposed amendments do not include any changes in land use designations because the Town is nearly built out and significant population growth is not expected in the future. The General Plan update includes amendments to existing goals and policies to address current land use and environmental issues. Most policies and programs are already existing. No new policy directions are being added in this General Plan update. The Town is committed to the preservation of natural resources and existing open space. The new policies and programs are added to clarify and strengthen existing goals and policies,. SURROUNDING LAND USES AND SETTING Incorporated as a general law city on January 27, 1956, the Town of Los Altos Hills is located in Santa Clare County directly west of the City of Los Altos. It is encircled by the City of Palo Alto along the north and northeast boundaries. Open space preserves managed by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District are located along the western boundary, and unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County are located to the east. The Town encompasses approximately 8.4 square miles with an additional 5.7 square miles of unincorporated land adjacent to the Town's boundaries designated as being within its sphere of influence. The Town is bisected by Highway 280 which runs from northwest to southeast. The Town is also served by Foothill Expressway which forms part of its northeasterly boundary. Arterial roads including Page Mill, Arastradem, and EI Monte -Moody Road, provide channels for primary movement within the Town. Characterized as a rural hillside community with rolling ]ills and picturesque valley, the Town serves as a transition area between the urbanized mid -peninsula and the open coastal mountain range. The Town is a low density suburban residential community on a rolling terrain, with dense vegetation including many oak trees and natural habitats. Although Los Altos Hills is not an agricultural community, the rugged physical characteristics of the area have helped to maintain its rural quality. Minor agricultural pursuits including orcbards and vineyards are common. Many residents keep domestic animals, primarily horses, on their properties, adding to the rural character of this community. The basic Ind use categories are residential, institutions, recreation, and open space. There are two zoning districts for all properties in Town: R -A (Residential Agricultural) and OSR (Open Space Reserve District). Additional uses such as public and private schools, churches and synagogues, and recreational clubs are permitted through conditional use permits. There are no commercial or industrial centers. Commercial, retail, and industrial uses are found in adjoining suburban communities. Many services to the Town's population including retail stores, post offices, banks, and medical services are available in adjacent communities such as the City of Los Altos and the City of Palo Alto. Other public agencies whose approval is required: None 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. This initial stadP has been prepared in accordance with the California Enviroomental Quality Act. In/mmation and canchtsmos in the Initial Stud, are based upon slafjremarch and the Tmmr's General Plan and Municipal Code. 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 Agriculture Resources DECLARATION will be prepared. I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a l Resources significant effect in this case because the mitigation measures described on an attached sheet have been added Cultural Resources to the project. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared Li Hazardous KSc�ices L3 Hydrology/Water Quality gfl�ing esources Noise rvices ❑Recreation � Tmnsportation/Taffic Service Systems Mandatory Findings of Significance This initial stadP has been prepared in accordance with the California Enviroomental Quality Act. In/mmation and canchtsmos in the Initial Stud, are based upon slafjremarch and the Tmmr's General Plan and Municipal Code. 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 the mitigation measures described on an attached sheet have been added to the project. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an Ll IMPACT REPORT is required. I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect(s) 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 earlieranalysis as described on attached sheets, ifthe effect is a "potentially significant impact" or" potentially significant unless mitigated." An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed. I find that although the proposed pmjeat could have a significant effect on the environment, there WILL NOT be a significant effect in this one because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR pursuant to applicable standards and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project. Signature: '� Date: 5 Lo Debbie Pedro, Planning Director FINDING: The project will have no impact on aesthetics. MITIGATION: No mitigation is necessary. P.1,11aux Wt I]), Less ihon AESTHETICS air sig1. NA N+ �'°� N. Inn.'�C°FI In determining whether impacts to agricultural resources are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to the California Agricultural land Evaluation and Site Assessment Model (1997) prepared by the California Dept. of Miumin. lei* Na 1-rac, Would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not ❑ Ll Z)limited to, trees, rock cutcroppings, and historic buildings Program of the California Resources Agency, to non- within a state scenic highway? agriculmml use? c) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality LlLl b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Ll ❑ the site and its surroundings? Q Williamson Act contract? d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area? 0 their location or nature, could result in conversion of Farmland, FINDING: The project will have no impact on aesthetics. MITIGATION: No mitigation is necessary. FINDING: The project will have no impact on agriculture resources. MITIGATION: No mitigation is necessary. Pmc v Isssrk, Sienifrcam Less ihon II. AGRICULTURE RESOURCES ImagoMitieuian yiw 1�s4 sisoifaaw Imnecr oN lmmcr In determining whether impacts to agricultural resources are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to the California Agricultural land Evaluation and Site Assessment Model (1997) prepared by the California Dept. of Conservation as an optional model to use in assessing impacts on agriculture and farmland. Would the project: a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown an the maps ❑ ❑ ❑ Q prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to non- agriculmml use? b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a ❑ ❑ ❑ Q Williamson Act contract? c) Involve other changes in the existing environment which, due to ❑ ❑ ❑ 0 their location or nature, could result in conversion of Farmland, to non-agricultural use? FINDING: The project will have no impact on agriculture resources. MITIGATION: No mitigation is necessary. FINDING: The project will have no impact on air quality. MITIGATION: No mitigation is necessary. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Iv isiiiinLasslixia $'en Less Thaill. "�h AIR QUALITY T%.1enti "oc m 1 _ia ith is tri, I.M. F:]V. ct: Mitigation Imran lee modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, Where available, the significance criteria established by the applicable air quality management or air pollution control district may be relied upon to make the following determinations. Would the project: a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation ofthe applicable air ❑ ❑ ❑ quality plan? or regulations, or by the California Deparanent of Fish and Game or U S. Fish and Wildlife Service? b) Violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to ❑ ❑ ❑ an existing or projected air quality violation? other sensitive natural community identified in local or ❑ El Li c) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any regional plans, policies, regulations or by the Califomia criteria pollutant for which the project region is non- ❑ L]❑ attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard (including releasing emissions which exceed C) Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors)? wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act ❑ ❑ ❑ 0 (including, but not limited to, marsh, vemal pool, coastal, etc) d) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant ❑ ❑ ❑ concentrations? other means? e) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ People? resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with FINDING: The project will have no impact on air quality. MITIGATION: No mitigation is necessary. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES si.ir 1 '�"'� sionifirae °"—th crs: rnaa sienifi� "�h MI icarim laws 1 i. F:]V. ct: a substantial adverse effect, either directly or throught modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, ive, or special status species in local or regional plans,es, or regulations, or by the California Deparanent of Fish and Game or U S. Fish and Wildlife Service? b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or ❑ El Li regional plans, policies, regulations or by the Califomia Department of Fish and Game or US Fish and Wildlife Service? C) Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act ❑ ❑ ❑ 0 (including, but not limited to, marsh, vemal pool, coastal, etc) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means? d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any native ❑ ❑ ❑ r'Jf resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or mimauxv wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites? palsmiallx � nmn _ e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting Sim fleam Simif . whh rm an Sisoifiwm biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ❑ ❑ ❑ Q ordinance? Would the project: a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse mvau F) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of'a L] Ll Ll Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or ❑ ❑ ❑ Q otherappmved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan? b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an L) ❑ Ll FINDING: The project will have no impact on biological resources MITIGATION: No mitigation is necessary. FINDING: The project will have no impact on cultural resources - MITIGATION: No mitigation is necessary. palsmiallx � nmn _ V. CULTURAL RESOURCES Sim fleam Simif . whh rm an Sisoifiwm M9icalica rm"o=r ]mmtt l m yam Would the project: a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse mvau Would the project a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of'a L] Ll Ll resource as defined in'15064.5? i) Rupture of'a )mown earthquake fault, as delineated on the b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an L) ❑ Ll ❑ resource pursuant to'] 50645? issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other c) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological ❑ ❑ ❑ resource or site or unique geologic feature? ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? ❑ ❑ ❑ d) Disturb any human renreim mcludingthose interred oulsideofformal ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ cemeteries? iv) Landslides? ❑ ❑ ❑ FINDING: The project will have no impact on cultural resources - MITIGATION: No mitigation is necessary. PNc r' 1 rn: rna" _ VI. GEOLOGY AND SOILS ream=s. Nalco rm"o=r l m yam Would the project: a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving: i) Rupture of'a )mown earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map ❑ ❑ ❑ issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault? ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? ❑ ❑ ❑ iii) Seismic -related ground failure, including liquefaction? ❑ ❑ ❑ iv) Landslides? ❑ ❑ ❑ or Ole loss of topsoil? b) Result in substantial soilWuse ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ,)Be located on a geologic untlmt is um'�ble,or do would become onankas a resultject, and pme niallyresult in on oroffsite I.&Ude, lateral spbsidence,liquefactiona collapse.d) ❑ ❑ ❑ Batm",_r ❑ ❑ ina'ad M ee ion lra s Be located on expansive fined in Table 18-1-B ofthe (1994), creating subisks to life or property?e) ❑ ❑ ❑UBC d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Govermnent Code Section 659625 and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? ❑ ❑ ❑ Have soils incapable of ly supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of wastewater? ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ FINDING: The project will have no impact on geology and soils.. MITIGATION: No mitigation is necessary,. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Sifeenl isss rnna sisoi hww a) Create a signi6camheard to the public or the environment through the marine transport; use, or disposal ofhamrdous materials? ❑ ❑ VII. Batm",_r ❑ ❑ ina'ad M ee ion lra s c) Em{t hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? ❑ El Inalustand Would the project: a) Create a signi6camheard to the public or the environment through the marine transport; use, or disposal ofhamrdous materials? ❑ ❑ ❑ b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through mzsumbly foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release ofhazardm materials men the environment? ❑ ❑ ❑ c) Em{t hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? ❑ El d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Govermnent Code Section 659625 and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? ❑ ❑ ❑ e) For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? ❑ ❑ ❑ F) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? ❑ ❑ ❑ g)impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? ❑ ❑ ❑ h) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where residences are intermixed with wildian ix? ❑ ❑ ❑ 8 FINDING: The project will have no impact on hazards and hazardous materials. MITIGATION: No mitigation is necessary - FINDING: The project will have no impact on hydrology and water quality. MITIGATION: No mitigation is necessary. Less Less MM1 $LeNfl®W 1 nw VIII. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY si�m milk s;m;r m No Issas Mifl }fan haa.O' Would the project: a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge ❑ ❑ ❑ requirements? b) Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering ofthe local groundwater table level ❑ ❑ ❑ feg, the production mu, ofplecustingnearby wells would drop to a level which would not support existing land uses or planned uses for which Permits have been granted)? c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of stream ❑ ❑ ❑ or river, in a manner which would result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-site? d) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of stream or river, ❑ ❑ ❑ or substantially increase the rate or meant of surface nmoff in a manner which would result in flooding on. or off-site? e) Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems ❑ ❑ ❑ 0 or provide substantial additional sources of polluted nmott? f) Otherwise substantially degrade water quality? ❑ ❑ ❑ Q g) Place housing within a 100 -year flood hazard area as mapped on a federal Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate ❑ ❑ ❑ Q Map or other flood hazard delineation map? h) Place within a 100 -year flood hazard area structures which ❑ ❑ ❑ would impede or redirect flood flows? i) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury ❑ ❑ ❑ int or death involving flooding, including flooding as a result of i=t the failure of a levee or dam? j) Inundation by seiche, tm ami, or mudflow? ❑ ❑ ❑ FINDING: The project will have no impact on hydrology and water quality. MITIGATION: No mitigation is necessary. FINDING: The project will have no impact on land use and planning. MITIGATION: No mitigation is nemssary- c 1:1,; 'r nam- �an na ! �Wa IX. LAND USE AND PLANNING S' I L —t. '" ' s'I... N. `� XI. NOISE imnsct lgn'en iar�m e Imoai Would the project e) Physically divide an established community? ❑ ❑ ❑ 0 b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, or ❑ ❑ ❑ regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the project ❑ ❑ ❑ (including, but not limited to the general plan, specific plan, local coastal program, or zoning ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effe(ct? ❑ ❑ ❑ c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or ❑ ❑ ❑ natural community conservation plan? FINDING: The project will have no impact on land use and planning. MITIGATION: No mitigation is nemssary- FINDING: The project will have no impact on mineral resources. MITIGATION: No mitigation is necessary. rsuo!s ccs Th,, .. caiL Thn Ips X. MINERAL RESOURCES siar r "r ��"°" �' SioiasJ °N im"ad XI. NOISE imnsct M, var a Imoai Would the project: I�aN a) Result in the loss of availability of a late. mineral resource ❑ ❑ ❑ that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state? b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally -important ❑ ❑ ❑ mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan or other land use plan? FINDING: The project will have no impact on mineral resources. MITIGATION: No mitigation is necessary. Ob3E roject result m: ofpersons to ods established i, or applicable of persons to orgeneratinofxcessive❑me vibration or groundbome noise levels? so��t With SioiasJ No tmwct XI. NOISE imnsct miumano lmwci I�aN Ob3E roject result m: ofpersons to ods established i, or applicable of persons to orgeneratinofxcessive❑me vibration or groundbome noise levels? c) A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? ❑ ❑ ❑ 0 XII. POPULATION AND HOUSING ��Enifimat Janna �u s ray ' IMI d) A substantial lemporuy or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? ❑ ❑ ❑ Would the project: a) induce substantial population growth in an area, either 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 w public use airport, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area on excessive noise levels? ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ t) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area m excessive noise levels? ❑ ❑ L3proj FINDING: The project will have no impact on noise level. MITIGATION: No mitigation is necessary. FINDING: The project will have no impact on population and housing. MITIGATION: No mitigation is necessary,. up entully 1ss run 1 onlikial ��� XII. POPULATION AND HOUSING ��Enifimat Janna �u s ray ' IMI Mill sa Would the project: a) induce substantial population growth in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and ❑ ❑ ❑ businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of roads or other infrastructure)? b) Displace substantial numbers of existing housing, ❑ ❑ ❑ necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? c) Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating the ❑ ❑ ❑ ZI construction of replacement housing elsewhere? FINDING: The project will have no impact on population and housing. MITIGATION: No mitigation is necessary,. XIII. PUBLIC SERVICES Pov"atini �'""'3YAh toggestaw D'. s. ��r I ran:, lansm. Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically ch a) altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, therceos s nsa times£or otther could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, po Performance objectives for any of the public services: Fire Protection? ❑ ❑ ❑ Police protection? ❑ ❑ ❑ z Schools? ❑ ❑ ❑ Parks? ❑ ❑ ❑ Other public facilities? ❑ ❑ ❑ FINDING: The project will have no impact on public services. MI'T'IGATION: No mitigation is necessary. XIV. RECREATION a) Would the project increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of'the facility would occur or be accelerated? b) Does the project include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities which mieht have an adverse physical effect on the environment? FINDING: The project will have no impact on recreation. MITIGATION: No mitigation is necessary. 12 ;•lL'oL�irJ'nt �— Im""� Ma93ll Dan I No norm lansm. ❑ 0 ❑ 0 FINDING: The project will have no impact on transportation and traffic, MITIGATION: No mitigation is necessary. P 1 Iv I,eu Than 5�Iairh l� XV. TRANSPORTATION/I'RAFFIC s t'saat awh ' °N i"� M'�'on IrS19iI 1. Would the project: a) Cause an increase in traffic which is substantial in relation to ❑ ❑ ❑FO the existing traffic load and capacity of the street system (i. e., L1 El L)result in a substantial increase in either the number of vehicle trips, the volume to capacity mile on roads, or congestion at ❑ ❑ ❑ intersections)? b) Exceed, either individually or cumulatively, a level of service ❑ ❑ ❑ standard established by the county congestion management ❑ L3 L3drainage agency for designated roads or highways? construction of which could cause significant environmental c) Result in a change in air traffic panems, including either an Ll L3 L3increase in traffic levels or a change in location that results in substantial safety risks? d) Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature (e g., Incompatible ❑ ❑ ❑ Q sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or uses (eg., farm equipment)? e) Result in inadequate emergency access? ❑ ❑ ❑Q( f) Result in inadequate parking capacity? ❑ ❑ ❑ I� I g) Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs Supporting ❑ ❑ ❑ alternative transportation (e g., bus tumours, bicycle tacks)? FINDING: The project will have no impact on transportation and traffic, MITIGATION: No mitigation is necessary. 13 SieniCthae LsssL TILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS s�a�;e=,"i awh Sisalfia:m Nn lmnaci ianni IrS19iI 1. oject Fm tewater treatment requirements of'the applicable ❑ ❑ ❑FO ater Quality Control Board? result in the construction of new water or wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing ❑ ❑ ❑ facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? c) Require or result in the construction of new storm water ❑ L3 L3drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental 13 FINDING: The project will have no impact on utilities and service systems. MITIGATION: No mitigation is necessary. XVII. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE P.19,111al s enifeurn I r"n an , MZ nr M' ieWim iLa Iess .Thom N_IIJmn34l a) Does the project have the potential to degrade the quality of fficient water supplies available to serve the project sting entitlements and resources, or are new or d entitlements needed? Ptgh O ❑ ❑ n a determination by the wastewater treatment which serves or may serve the project that it hase upaciry to serve the projects projected demand in to the provider's existing commitments? ❑ ❑ ❑ Q f) Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the project's solid waste disposal needs? Ll 13 L Q animal community, reduce the number or restrict the range of g) Comply with federal, state, and local statutes and regulations Q Q related to solid waste? FINDING: The project will have no impact on utilities and service systems. MITIGATION: No mitigation is necessary. XVII. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE P.19,111al s enifeurn I r"n an , MZ nr M' ieWim iLa Iess .Thom N_IIJmn34l a) Does the project have the potential to degrade the quality of the environmenr, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop Q below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? b) Does the project have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? ("Cumulatively considerable" ❑ means that the incremental effects of s project are ❑ ❑ considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of robable future rojects)? c) Does the project have environmental effects which will cause Li 13 Ll adverse effects on human beings, eitherdirectly or indirectly? GLNEIUIL RKI TRIN OF LOP) ALTOS HILLS IIAY I, 1975 A INTRODUCTION 1. The Los Altos hills Planning Area is characterized by its natural heauty, open spaces and rural atmosphere. The hills and mountains of the Planning Area provide a natural backdrop for the more intensively developed urban areas toward the Day. The preservation of this regional resource is im- portant for maintenance and enhancement of the quality of life for resi- dents of both the mid -peninsula and the Day Area. This General Plan pro- vides a framework within which Los Altos hills can develop in an orderly manner and preserve its residential character and rural atmosphere. BACKGROUND 2. Up to the decade of the 1950's, land owenrship in the Los Altos Hills Plan- ning Area was in relatively large holdings which had been held as country ranches and estates. With the coming of intensive urbanization to Santa Clara County, these holdings were threatened with development patterns similar to those taking place in other parts of the Day Area, the results as which would have been to destroy completely the pleasant rural charac- ter which existed. To protect themselves against these threats and to preserve the rural atmosphere, the residents joined together and incor- porated Los Altos hills on January 27, 1956. 3. At the time of incorporation, the area was more truly rural and agricul- tural than it is today. Today, Los Altos [fills is a low density suburban residential area, where individuals, employed in industry and business lo- cated in the more urbanized portions of the region, make their homes. This rr• change in function has not altered the Town's rural character. Although -I- - 3.(cout.) Los Altos Hills is not an agricultural community, the rugged physical characteristics of the area have helped to maintain a rural qualitY. In addition, small scale crop and tree farming, the keeping of domestic animals, primarily horses, and other minor agricultural Pursuits com- patible with residential uses are important to the life style of the residents. a• in 1959, in an effort to implement the community goals expressed at the time of incorporation, Los Altos Hills adopted a general plan. The 195n General Plan, revised in 1963, a Recreation Element, adopted in April, 1966, and a "Phase I" Housing Element, adopted in 1g6n, have provided general policy guidance for the Town in plans and programs as well as in ordinance preparation and administrative actions. 5 Since 1961, significant changes have occurred in Los A1Los Hills, the state, and the nation which should be reflected in the General Plan. Also, state legislative requirements for general plans have been broadened. Thus, to fulfill the current general plau requirements of the California Government Code and more importantly to consider the effect of the many changes that have occurred since 1963, the policy and prin- ciples as well as the data used in the original plan have been re- evaluated and revised to ensure that the Los Altos Hills General Plan properly reflects the goals and needs of the community, in addition, a more precise definition of the relationship between Los Altos Hills and the region is needed. THE 1973 REVISION TO THE GENERAL PLAN 6. The 1973 revision to the General Plan is based on the belief that an informed public can and will decide the kind of environment and level 6. (Cont.) of public services it desires and will take actions necessary Co a- chieve its goals. The characteristics of the environment desired by the residents of Los Altos Hills were initially expressed in the "Platform for I»corporation" in 1955. The essence of that document was the Pre- servation of a rural atmosphere with a minimum of government and taxes. These principles are still relevant, having been continually reaffirmed through Town actions, and have been re-emphasized in policy contained in the 1973 revision. 7. The revised General Plan, when adopted, becomes an official statement of public policy regarding the future physical form of the Town, and serves as the basis for public and private decisions and actions. The goal of the General Plan is to provide a guide for coordinated decision- making. To be effective, the General Plan must provide a framework with- in which private and Pohlic actions can take place in a manner consistent with the public interest. Furthermore, the plan must be understood and respected by neighboring jurisdictions and agencies of the State and Federal Governments. It is therefore necessary that private interests and other levels of government be informed of the Flan and the basis for the Plan. The realization of the Plan will depend upon positive actions taken by governmental agencies and private interests. The General Plan is characteristically conceived of as a long-range general, comprehensive guide for the future of the conmwnity. A period of twenty to thirty years is often adopted as a Planning period. Such a period is probably as far into the future as we can realistically Plan, and sometimes too far, and at the same time allows for considerable change to take place through conscious programs to implement a Plan. It is "general" in that it does not attempt to treat details, hot focuses on the major aspects of community development and change. De- - III - 7, tCOntl. tailed planning is reserved for shorter range plans and programs. A major attribute of the Plan is that it is "comprehensive". The General Plan is the one city document that sets forth ALL of the major physical parameters of development and assures that all aspects are in proper balance and consistent, one with the other. Finally, the General Plan deals primarily with the physical development of the community, that is, the proposals relate primarily to physical features. This does not mean, however, that non-physical aspects of the conwuunity are ignored; rather the basis for the. Plan proposals and the effects of Plan pro- posals usually relate to basic non-physical aspects of the community, i.e., basic social, economic and public interest concerns. 8. The General Plan becomes the basis for a wide range of commUnity actions. These include the usual planning regulations including zoning, subdivi- sion and site development ordinances, rills other programs such as open space acquisition, noise regulations, planting programs, etc. In addi- tion, the Plan should provide a guide for a wide range of private actions. 9. The General Plan should be evaluated annually to determine whether it continues to reflect the aims of the citizens and nrnvides a realistic guide for physical development. Furthermore, the Klan should be subjec- ted to a thorough review and updating at intervals of not greater than five years, so that it continues to cover a future time span of twenty to thirty years. In this manner, although the community will not have achieved full development at any given time, the Plan will continue to provide a long-range guide. lo. In 1970 there were 1,904 housing units within incorporated Los Altos Hills, and the residential Population was 6,685 persons. Based on an - IV - 10• (cont.) evaluation of the development potential of lands within the planning area, the objectives of residents, and the locational relationships to major work and shopping areas, the plan has been designed to accommodate approximately 3,750 housing unit,' and an ultimate residential population of 12,500 to 14,500 persons within the Town and its Sphere of Influence. Services and facilities necessary to serve the area have been scaled to accommodate this population. 11. The Introduction and Parts 1, II, and III of this document constitute the GENERAL PLAN OF THE TOWN OF 105 ALTOS HILLS, CALIroPNIA. The basic poli- cies for the Plan are found in Part I and the Land Use and Circulation Elements. Other Elements - Open Space, Safety, etc. - provide more de- tailed guidance on selected aspects of the General Plan. The Plan has been developed pursuant to the state law governing local planning as found in Chapter 3, Title 7, of the Government Code. Plans for sub -areas, when developed and adopted, will become part of the General Plan. Appendices provide background information relevant to the General Plan. The appendices are supplementary information and are not intended to be adopted as part of the Plan. 12. In order to facilitate incorporation of results of more detailed studies of what can only be approximated presently, and changing conditions, the Plan is organized in parts and sections so that amendment, when shown to be necessary, can be accomplished in an orderly manner. For conven- ient reference, each paragraph is numdrered. - V - PARI I - GENERAL PROVISIONS THE PLANNING AREA 13. The Los Altos Ilills planning area is located in northwest Santa Clara County, south of Palo Alto and west of Los Altos. The planning area contains some 14,000 acres, approximately 5,400 of which make up the TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS, CALIFORNIA. The planning area is hilly and mountainous, with extremely irregular patterns of drainage. Eleva- tions range from one hundred feet (1001) in the lower portions, pri- marily along the northeastern edge of the planning area, to approximate- ly twenty-seven hundred feet (2700') above sea level along the Monte Bello Ridge Line to the south. The lower elevations in the northeastern part of the planning area are characterized by gently rolling hills, while the southwest terrain becomes more precipitous. Almost all of the planning area is endowed with heavy natural vegetative cover, in- cluding many oak -studded hills and canyons. 14. The San Andreas Fault lies at the southern boundary of the planning area. At least two major fault zones, possibly part of the San Andreas System, traverse the incorporated Town from East to West. The exact; lo- cation of these fault traces and the extent of their activity is un- known. 15. To plan for the future of Los Altos Ilills, areas beyond the Town corporate limits must be. included as part of the planning area. Because o of important functional or visual relationships to Los Altos NIlls, por- tions of Palo Alto, Los Altos and unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County, including lands of Stanford University, are included in the Los Altos Hills Planning Area. Such lands can be broken into three (3) - 1 - 15. (¢onf,) categories of concern. The categories, delimited by arca on the follow- ing map, are a SPHERE OF INFLUENCE - This is the Town's sphere of influence as established by the Santa Clara County Local Agency Forma-' tion Connnission, The General Plan proposes policies for the sphere of influence as a guide to Santa Clara County and as an indication of the Town policy that would apply, should the area be annexed. The Town's sphere of influence covers ap- proximately 3,700 acres of unincorporated area. b AREAS PROPOSED To HE IN THE LOS ALTOS HILLS SPHERE OF INFLU- ENCE - These lands are beyond the Town's corporate limits and are not part of the Los Altos hills sphere of influence as established by the Santa Clara County Local Agency Formation Commission. The Town has found, however, that these areas are so situated that they most directly relate to Los Altos Ilills and should be included in the Town's sphere of influence. The prime example of such an area is the El Retiro Property, which is a pocket of unincorporated land west of Adobe Creek. between Los Altos Hills and the City of Los Altos. C. AREAS OF DIRECT CONCEP.N - These lands are beyond the Town's corporate limits, but not included as part of the sphere of influence. For these areas, the General Plan expresses general Town policy to provide a basis for cooperative programs or negotiations with the ,jurisdictions having primary responsi� bility for planning and development of these lands. Of the 14,000 total planning area acres, approximately 4,900 are de- fined as areas of Direct Concerh.- - 2 - iG The planning area is delimited by recognizable physical features, including major thoroughfares, large non-residential areas, and natural topographic features. To the south, the planning area includes the Birveneck, Neary, Perham, and Kaiser-Permanente properties up to and including a portion of Monte Bello Ridge and the "Kaiser" Ridge. lb the west it includes a portion of adjoining Palo Alto. To the north and northeast it includes lands in Los Altos and follows approxinate.ly the Foothill Expressway. To the east it is hounded by Permanente Creek. REGIONAL CONTENT 17 The Town of Los Altos Hills is functionally interrelated to other parts of the San Francisco Bay Region. Residents of Las Altos Ilills are dependent on other parts of the Bay Region for a wide variety of cul- tural, commercial, and recreational facilities. The Town is particu- larly dependent on employment centers in the Ray Area that: are within commute time of the residents of the community. The relationship, however, isnot one-sided. The Town and its surroundings are endowed with significant natural beauty which is relatively close to major activity centers in the Bay Area, making the Town attractive for those seeking a natural environment in which to make their homr.. In addition, because the planning area is located in hillsides visible from a signi- ficant part of the region, the natural characteristics of the slopes provide visual relief from the congestion of the more urban areas for a large number of Bay Area residents. 18. Los Altos Hills is also a part of the mid -peninsula, a sub -region of the Bay Area. Palo Alto serves as the hub of this area. Major shopping and service facilities in downtown Palo Alto and at the Stan- ford Shopping Center, the Stanford -Palo Alto Hospital Center, and Stan- - 3 - Is. (cont.) ford University form an important cluster of activities serving this area. Employment centers, especially on Stanford lands and in Mountain - view and Sunnyvale, are readily accessible to Los Altos Hills by way of an extensive sub -regional highway system (see following diagram). As a part of the mid -peninsula,. Los Altos Hills is important as a low- density residential area meeting a specific housing need for the area, and as a naturally scenic and open space area complementing the intensely developer) urban areas. ASSUMPTIONS 19 The General Plan for Los Altos Bills must relate to the larger forces at work at national, state, and regional levels. Most importantly, it must relate to the forces at work in the San Francisco Hay Area. Re - cause the Town has little or no control over the many external forces that will influence its future, it is necessary to identify some of the more significant general conditions that appear likely to prevail in the future. If the following assumptions prove to be incorrect, it will he necessary for Los Altos Hills to re-evaluate the goals and objectives of its General Plan. 1. California and the Ray Area will continue to experience an increase in total population; however for at least the near future, that growth will be slower than in the decades of the 1950's and the 1g60's. 2. The population of California and the Ray Area will exper- ience a changing composition with increasing percentages of senior citizens and non -whites, a decreasing percentage of young people, smaller households, and increasing levels of educational attainment. -q- i,m, 426 a:4. � I qf-i IcR.41. PLAN ?E`/MON 1973 c .un?I irnN[•t .acct .A 1 0 1-•. �,--- "1•. I, t ..jd'S An�;a h -noosed fo A 1 v'+♦ / ' � In LOS f\IiCS ! Ili I oF 1 _ � Noming Area 6oundcry i,m, 426 a:4. � I qf-i IcR.41. PLAN ?E`/MON 1973 c .un?I irnN[•t .acct .A 1 0 1-•. �,--- "1•. 3TANTORu U'lll`/ERSIT'( To :ion „cncisco 'io Oregon Ave. and My4mre Free -a '\LO ALTO I 1 'rl1. VIEW n [r LOS I ALTOS r., J ad., a r rea'euv To sunn"ole Cupertino, �. 0 .5 I — ' t� son Jose' I scale l__.._� Ail=s •\ JU:} EGIC d?>L C13CUI— T101 AItos 11H!u, .�i�i7n1. f.:4Pl '::'✓ISIOi'� 1�3 ,; :.� � r<n.c �.-'a.�c::: ..._....� .,. i<.'.1 19. (cont.) 3. In the nation, state and bay Area, there will he a con- tinuing concern for the quality of the environment, which will be expressed in public and private decisions to control the extent and form of growth, and utilization of resources, and to vigorously preserve our natural envir- onment. A. There will be a continued decline in the number of hours per week and in the average annual hours of labor per worker, resulting in increased leisure time. 5. The major needs of Los Altos Hills residents for goods and work opportunities will continue to be satisfied through outlets and facilities located In other Parts of the mid -peninsula and the Bay Area. 6. Los Altos Hills and adjacent areas similar in character will continue to provide an important unique and dimin- ishing sub -regional resource -- that is, an area where the needs of individuals and families seeking a rural en- vironment in a natural setting can be satisfied. 7. The residents of California and the Bay Area will demand high quality residential, working and recreational areas. 8. The primary mode of transportation between Los Altos Ilills and other parts of the mid -peninsula will continue to be the automobile, with secondary movement by bicycle, horse- back, and by foot, increasing progressively in importance. 9. Feeder systems, as part of an overall mass transit network, will provide only limited service to the Los Altos Hills Planning Area. - 5 - REGIONAL GOALS OF IAS ALTOS-HILLS 20. If Los Altos hills and similar areas are to continue to provide a natural environment as a balance and alternative to congestion in the more intensively developer) portions of the mid-peninsula and the Bay Region, certain conditions must prevail. These conditons cannot be assumed, they must be vigorously supported by the Town, therefore the Town establishes the following "Regional Goals": 1. Government, groups, and individuals should be encouraged to participate in the planning, management, and use of the limited natural resources of the Bay Area in such a way as to conserve and restore the environment. 2. In the areas adjoining the Los Altos Hills Planning Area, control of development should be adequate to prevent adverse effects on properties in the Los Altos Ilills area. 3. Legislation should be encouraged to guide regional pat- terns of growth and development, with particular• atten- tion being given to the establishment of population limits based on environmental constraints, space availa- bility, and reasonable extension of services and facilities. 4. All persons in the Bay Area should be able to obtain adequate housing in satisfying neighborhoods and in loca- tions convenient to ,jobs, and needed community facilities and services. Gach community should be viewed in this regional context, and should provide the housing types that are best suited to its natural setting and proximity to employment, recreation, goods and services, and other fa- cilities. 5. Belts of naturally open land should be preserved surround- - 6 - 20 (cont.) ing jurisdictions where still possible, to maintain community integrity and to enhance the environmental quality of the region. COMMUNITY GOALS 21. The major community goals stated below are general in nature and provide the most basic policy for the General Plan. More detailed policy statement, called objectives, are based on these community goals. Such objectives are found with each element of the General Plan. The major community goals of Los Altos Hills are 1. Los Altos Ilills should be a community dedicated to main- taining a rural atmosphere, where people can live in the midst of open space, exposed to minimum noise, congestion, and confusion, and with sufficient space on each lot to allow the pursuit of space -consuming activities, such as small-scale farming, the keeping of horses, and Outdoor recreation. 2. Los Altos Ilills should continue to serve as a transition between the urbanized mid -peninsula and the open coastal mountain range. This community should supply low density residential environment and open space for the region and rely on the more urbanized community for employment, goods and most services. coMMUNITY STRUCTURF 22 The land use and circulation proposals contained in the General Plan stem from the recognition that the natural beauty and rural character of the planning area are resources which must be preserved for local residents - 7 - 22. (cont.)and inhabitants of the mid -peninsula and the Bay Region. The intensity and distribution of land uses and standards for development are largely determined and conditioned by the natural environment of the area. In addition, existing development sets the general framework for further development. 23 The primary uses of land in Los Altos Mills are single family resi- dences and open space. A minimum of one acre of land is required per dwelling unit. In general, however, the density of dwelling units de- creases as the steepness of land increases, due to past development pat- terns and Town regulations. In addition, uses within the planning area include those few public and private facilities necessary to serve the residents on a continuing basis that are not otherwise available. 24 Some employment and commercial areas are located adjoining the nor- thern and northeastern portions of the planning area and are easily accessible by major thoroughfares. Commercial activities, except com- mercial stables, are not proposed within the corporate limits of Los Altos Mills. The only employment activities planned for within the Town are those associated with necessary facilities and services. 25. The steep slopes to the west, southwest and south, are to be pre -- served as open space because of their visual qualities and hazards in- herent in their development. Elsewhere in the planning area, major enipha- sis is placed on preservation of the natural environment in all develop- ment proposals. In addition, development of those areas determined as potentially dangerous to man due to inherent natural hazards is to be strictly controlled. 26 The thoroughfares of Page Mill Road, Arastradero Road, and E1 Monte - Moody Road, provide for primary movement within the planning area. These routes also connect the planning area with Interstate 280, Foothill Ex- - 8 - 26. ('cont.) pressway, and Bayshore Freeway, which in turn, link the area with all parts of the Bay Region (see diagram sub -Regional Circulation). Y7. Page Mill and E1 Monte -Moody Roads also serve as important mid - peninsula links to recreational areas in the foothills and south to Skyline Boulevard. These routes also lead to the more western and rugged portions of Santa Clara and San Mateo counties and to their coastal re- creation areas. Individuals travelling by foot, horseback, motor ve- hicle or bicycle, make use of these routes. 28, The circulation system within the "town is generally organized so as to minimize the intrusion of the automobile. Thus, the roads tend to be designed to provide access to properties, even if circuitoug, in order to discourage extraneous through -traffic. In contrast, the trails and paths are designed to facilitate easy access throughout the Town. In essence, the Town is meant to be largely impermeable to cars but permeable to equestrians, those on foot and on bicycles. PART II - ELEMENTS OF THE PLAN 29, This part of the General Plan consists of the text portions of each of the Elements of the Plan. Portions of the Elements are portrayed graphically on the Plan Diagram included as Part III. The Elements of the General Plan can be grouped into three broad categories, according to the different forms of each element as follows: general elements, single function elements, and programmatic elements. The elements inclu- ded in the Plan are GENERAL ELEMENTS - Land Use Element Circulation Element SINGLE FUNCTION ELEMENTS - Open Space Element Recreation Element Housing Element Trails and Paths Element PROGRAMMATIC ELEMENTS - Conservation Element Safety/Seismic Safety Element Noise Element Scenic Highways Element 30. The General Elements, land use and circulation, describe the basic framework for the physical development of the Planning Area. However, certain types of land use and circulation need to be presented separately because of the detail, with which the subjects must be dealt and/or the requirements of state law. Therefore, Single Function Elements deal with such subjects as open space, recreation, housing, and trails and paths. The third category of Elements, Programmatic Elements, deals less directly with the basic land use -circulation framework and more with programs and methods of improving the quality of the environment. These elements deal with conservation, safety, seismic safety, noise and scenic highways. This last category of Elements does, however, include certain specific re- conmiendations for land use. - 10 - OPEN SPACE ELEMENT EXISTING GENERAL PLAN 1975 OPEN SPACE ELEMENT All The residential character and rural atmosphere of Los Altos Hills result primuari ly from the open space and natural quali Lies of the area. Presently, significant amounts of open space, from large to small scale, exist within the Planning area. Large and intermediate scale open spaces of particular significance are associated with the steeper eleva- tions to the west and south up to the Montebello and Kaiser Ridges. Also, most all individual lots are of sufficient size to allow families to experience significant small scale open space on their own parcels. The character and quality of Los Altos Hills and the balancing effect the planning area provides to Lhp. more urbanized areas of the mid -peninsula and the Bay region are dependent upon maximum preservation of existing open space lands at all scales, and enhancement of the natural oualities of developed lands. It is the purpose of this element to define open space policy, delineate open space areas and outline an open space ac- tion program. All, open space is three-dimensional and most simply can be defined as all of the space above the surface of the earth which is not occupied by structures. In this plan, the many scales and forms Of open space are treated as a system or open spaces. Each component of that sysLem has a function in the maintenance of a natural environment that contributes to the quality of human experience. The philosophy of a complex, inter- dependent system of open spaces is basic in this element. To facilitate understanding and for the purpose of planning, the 3n3. system of open spaces is viewed at three general scales -- very large (macro), intermediate, and small (micro). These general scales of open space are defined as follows: a) Macro -Scale nren Srdce - spaces where the sense_ Pf openness is 42 - 303.1. (cont.) extensive; views encompass large undeveloped or Primarily undeveloped lands and rFord a sense of distance. Coutinuil,y and large size give these areas their dominant character. b) Iriternmediate Scale_Open Space - Spaces of intermediate scale range in size from five to thirty (5-30) acres, and range in character from a small totally open area to a large development with extensive lan(scaping, the unifying element being the sense of openness in the middle ground with definite background limit to one's view. C) Nitro Stale OepJiace - Spaces that are of a small or intimate nature where the observer is intimately confronting limiting structures and is prevented from viewing beyond immediate limits. Attention is usually focused on the details of forms, textures and color of foreground objects. sun. IVitllin the general three-dimensional open space system are particu- larly significant open sn<lCes -- those related to OPEN SPACE LANDS. These are the open spaces that relate most specifically to the categories of open space lands defined in tine state law (Section 655560 of the California GovPrimmnt Co(Ie), where open space land is defined as any parcel or area of land or water which is essentially unimproved and de- voted to an open space use and which is designated on a local, regional or state open space plan as any of the following: a) O ep ri space for the _jrrservation of natolalreso urcr_5, including but not limited to, areas required for the preservation of plant and animal life, including habitat for fish and wildlife species; areas required for ecologic and other scientific, study purposes: rivers, streams, lakeshores, banks on rivers and streams, and watershed lands- - 43 - b) 0 en s ace used ford managed productionof resources, in- 304.(cont.) Gliding but not linriterl to, forest lands, rangeland, agricultu- ral lands and areas of economic importance for the production of food or fiber; areas required for recharge of groundwater basins; marshes, rivers and streams which are important for the management of connnercial fisheries; and areas containing major mineral deposits, including those in short supply. c) opensparefor outdoor recreation, including, but riot limited to, areas of outstanding scenic, historic and cultural value; areas particularly suited for park and recreation purposes, including access to lakeshores, beaches, and rivers and sl:-Pairs; and areas which serve as links between major recreation and open space reservations, including utility easements, banks of rivers and streams, trails, and scenic highway corridors. d) Open spacA_Tor.public health and safet , including, but nol. limited to, areas which require special managemrmt or regulation because of hazardous or special conditions such as earthquake fault zones, unstable soil areas, flood plains, swales and creek channels, watersheds, areas presenting high fire risks, areas required for the protection of water quality and mater reservoirs and areas required for the protection and enhancement of air quality. Objectives: 305. 1. To provide for Lire inaxinrunr feasible preservation of open space in and ad;dnining the Town, with spaces ranuinq in size from regional scale to smell scale open space or individual 101,s- 2. To protect and maintain those areas necessary to the integriti, of natural resources and processes with special emphasis or, -qq_ 30 5.2. (cont.) but not limited to, Lhe water regime, open spaces vital for wildlife habitat, and other areas of major or univue ecoloclical significance. 3. To preserve open space For the managed production of resources that are suitable in Los Altos Hills, such as agriculture and the maintenance of groundwater supplies. q, To provide open space for outdoor recreational needs and for the preservation of sites of historical and cultural significance. 5. To preserve the natural beauty and minimize disturbance of the natural terrain and vegetation. 6. To preserve the important vistas, such as flonte Bello, Kaiser, Heary and Ewing Hill Ridges, and the hillsides leading to these ridges. 7. To preserve open space where necessary for the protection of public health and safety. 8. To provide open space to shape and guide development and to en- hance community identity. Principles: 30e. 1, The major drainage courses should be kept in a natural condition insofar as possible because of their importance in supplying major vegetation, land Finns and wildlife habitat, and storm drainage. 2. The continuance of ailr1cultural pursuits and the maintenance of adequate ground water supplies are to be encouraged• 3. In the context of the local physical situation, the extraction of rock„ sand, gravel and mineral resources is inconmatible W'111 goals for maintaining a quality environment and should be prrr- hibited. - 45- 306.(cont.) h. both public and private efforts should be directed to preserving historical landmarks which have open space value. 5. The basic visual character of the planning area should be con- served in any land development project. 6. To the maximum extent: possible, all uses of land and structures in the planning area should be subordinate to Lite general open space quality of the planning area. 7. The scale of building, the siting of rlevelopmwrL, the design and the materials of construction should be harmonious with the natural setting. 0. open spaces, to the extent possible, should be linked together visually and physically to form a system of open spaces. 9. Unstable terrain, acl,ive fault traces, water channels, flnud plains, and other areas determined hazardous to public welfare and safety or necessary for storm drainage should be kept as open space unless unobtrusive corrective measures can assure public safety and meet public need. lo. Conservation easements, open space zoning, and other land use regulations should be used to prohibit development on unstable terrain, active fault traces, water channels, flood plains, excessively steep slopes and other areas determined hazardous to public welfare and safety. Description: 317. Almost all lands within Los Altos Hills have some open space sinni- ficance even though some may not specifically meet stole open space use criteria. With the majority or its land in wooded moinlainsidc, or rolling oak-studded, grass-covered hills, the Los Alttts Hills plana inq area is an important part of the backdrop to the more densely urbanized -d6- 3117 (amt Pay plain. The open space proposals of this element are directed at retaining as much of this natural land as possible. 308 specific open space proposals are related to two categories of open space areas on the Plan Diagram: open Space Preserve, and Open Space Conservation Area. Specific lands included under these categories meet state open space use criteria. Open space lands, where the primary function is some form of active recreation, are designated "public" or "private recreation area" on the General Plan Diagram and are described in detail in the Recreation Element of this Plan. Specific open space proposals (other than recreation areas), their significance and suggested methods for implementation which combine to form the state -required action program are described below. In addition, historical sites which have open space, recreational, or educational value are described. 3nr. In formulating this element of the General plan, Los Altos Dills' Open Space resources have been evaluated in relationship to the state open space guidelihes and definitions, and, as appropriate, identified as open space Lind serving one or more functions outlined in those guide- lines. Those open space lands whose functions are idenCiried as essen- tial for the public interest are proposed for preservation through a variety of methods, including public regulation and/or acquisition. 310It should be noted that not all 'lands with significant open space value, whose maintenance may be essential for preservation of the area's atmosphere and character, are necessarily described. Other open lands m of various scales exist that the community niay feel desrrve presrrva Cion e, q., open hillsides adjacent: to major corridors of movement, such as Interstate ZRO. It is imperative, therefore, that tine Town inventory and analyze especially intermediate and micro scale open spaces within the Town and add recommendations to this plan to ensure all land signifi- _q7- tCO.(cont,) cant to maintenance or cotimmnity character will be preserved. 1. poen Space rreserve These are generally large areas where inherent characteristics or capabilities of the land are "lost suitable to open space for preservation of natural resources, open space for less active forms of outdoor recreation, primarily for outstanding scenic gualities. Open spare preserves are proposed for extensive areas within the planning area. the mountain area, an area of ridges and valleys leading up to and including Motile hello and Kaiser Ridges 1:0 the southwest and south, comprises the largest open space preserve; another large area includes lands within the City of Palo Alto and its sphere of influence which are in the Los Altos 11ills Planning area, Particularly those lands zoned tP open space by Palo Alto. In addition to the larger areas, some more intermndiate size units or land within Che cunnnunity have also been designated open space preserve. a, Mountain Area - The ridge and valley syst:eni south of Plnody Road, including a majority of the Town's sphere of influence, is essentially formed by drainage in the Adobe Creek, Hale Creek and pet7nanente Creek Basins and is endowed will a rugged landscape, with slopes much steeper than those found in virtually all the remainder of the planning area. The ridges of the system are parallel, oriented east -wet and include Neary Ridge, Kaiser Ridge, Ewing I1111 Ridge, and Monte Ilello Ridclo. In addition to steep sloprs, grsolnyic hazards (such as landslides, earthquake faults and other areas of extreme relative geologic instability), inaccess- ibilil:y due to ridge alignment; difficulty in providing 48 - 31D.1.a. (cont.) water and other services; and fire hazard (including limit- ations to fire equipment response) constrain the areas poten- tial for development. The ridges are also important for their visual gualities visible from many vantage points within the Town and the mid-peninsula sub-region. It is proposed, therefore, that this area be maintained essenti- ally in a natural state, with provisions made for development of only emergency roads necessary to assure rapid contain- ment of any ferns. Iiolemerta t1r - It is proposed that the several thousand contiguous acres designated Open Space Preserve south of Moody Road be zoned (initially pre-zoned) to an open space use, with low intensity uses allowed. SUCK uses could be public or private and would rely on the natural setting for the major aspect or the use. uses might include areas for scientific study, low intensity private recreation, trails and paths, and use as a watershed. Residential develoument on large parcels, no less than 10 acres, aright; be permitted under highly controlled conditions. In any residential or other development., it is proposed that all aspects he care- fully evaluated to ensure the use will have minimal impact on the natural environment and to ensure compliance with ob- jectives of the General Plan. Particularly prominant visual features, such as ridges or hillsides, should be kept free of developutent or change. Public park uses Illy be possible thruayh gift or Purchase by some agency other than the Town, such as the Mid-Peninsula Park District. The Town should support such efforts. -ng- 310.1.a. (cont.) It has been assuniod for many .years that the Iluveneck owner- ship would in time be conveyed to the coup Ly for park purposes. Such a park would be of great significance Lo Los All:os lulls. The Town should support the property owner in his efforts to preserve the land. If and when the nark development is assured, it is proposed that only a minimum of recreation facilities are provided with the majority of area maintained in a itaLoral condition. Preservation of Kaiser Ridge, located within the Cupertino Sphere of Influence, will be dependent on Cupertino and Santa Clara County efforts to regulate operation of Kaiser Cement and Gypsum Company. The Town should support Cupertino and the Comity in these efforts and should keep abreast of the quarrying aspects of the Kaiser rypsuni operation to insure that the skyline which has been quarried is rehabilitated. b. Byrne Preserve - This naturally beautiful unit of land is currently being purchased by the Town fl-om I:he Nature Conser- vancy. It is proposed that tile land be preserved as oven space with provision for riding, hiking, and other more passive recreational uses. c. Fremont Road Site - This 3n acre site on Fremont Road, across front Town Hall, is designated as open space preserve. (It is possible this site may evolve to a Community center, inclu- dinq provision for public recreation). The site is one of the few significant open spaces in this portion of the conmtu- nity and appears important in preserving the sense of openness narticularly where it is adjacent to development that is gen- erally or grea Ler relative intensity that' in miter portions - 50- 310.1 -c. (COOL.) of the low". Implementation - It will probably be necessary for the Town to purchase this site if it is to be preserved as permanent open space. d. Cjjy_of Palo Alto - Those lands within the City of Palo Alto, or which are part of its sphere of influence (e.g., Upper foothills, foothill Park, Stanford Lands, Esther Clark Park, etc), shown in the open Space Preserve designation reflect existing zoning or existing Policies of Palo Alto. The maintenance of these lands in their natural condition enhances the rural and open character and atmosphere of Los Altos hills; therefore, their preservation is important to the Town. Iniplelnentation - The Town should actively support, to the extent possible, the efforts of Palo Alto to preserve these lands. e. GI Retiro-Redwood Grove (City of los Altos) - The El Retiro site and Redwood Grove within the sphere of influence of the city of Los Altos, located al. the Los Altos Bills Town boun- dary, north of O'Keefe Lane and west of Adobe Creek, have been designated for acquisition by the City for open space in its General Plan Revision program. These sites are also important open space areas to Los Altos hills because of their proxim- ity to the Town, located west of Adobe Creek, and because of their scenic qualities and ecological and historic signi- ficance. For these reasons, they have been designated Open Spare Preserves. Ini1lemerrtation - The Town should Lake the lead in efforts to 51 - inainl:ain these sites as per•uvanent open space, including initi- ation of discussions with the Santa flare County Local Agency Formation Conouission in regard to placing the E1 Re - tiro site in Les Altos lulls' sphere of influence. f. Fleary—iliarr _ This site, within the Town's sphere of influ- ence, is designated as an open space preserve hased on its function of "managed" production of natural resources. Cur- rently Santa Clara County is responsible for regulation of the quarrying operation; however, since the quarry is a pre- existing use, few controls are levied by the County on the operation. It is anticipated that, when tale quarrying operation ceases to exist, the site will he unsuitable for other than open space uses. 191lemen_tatio11 - The Town should encourage the, County to es- tablish regulations to conLrol the nuisance factors of t:he quarry, including noise and dust from trucks which have a negative impact on the surrounding residential areas. In addition, the County, the Town, and the property owner should work together to consider plans for rehabilitation of the site for other uses. 2, Open. Space Conservation Areas These are portions of omher use areas (e.9. residential and ins titutiOna I) where structures should not he pernrjtLed. Generally, these are steep canyons associated With major creeks or their tributaries (i.e. Matadero, Purissima, Adohe, little, and Permanente Creeks), with heavy vegetation cover where, for reasons of conservation of resources, public welfare and visual amenity uses should he limited to low intensity recre- ational uses. In addition, visuaily important open spaces help- ing Lo define the community character associated with major re- - 52- sw.z.(,00r ligious and educational institutional faci IiLies, or, w'll.h Stanford Industrial Park, are designated open space conservation areas. ]n4rlenienta Cion_ - it is proposed that these areas be preserved through careful regulation of development combined with conservation ease- urents, An alternative to public ownership of conservation easements may be ownership by neighborhood residents with use limited to low intensity Private recreational activities. Many of the stream can- yons, however, are essential as links in the Town's public trails and paths system. 3. Ilistorical Sites - Listed below are historical sites whose preserve Lion, or recognition as part of any development, will help maintain and enhance the character and sense of onen space associated with the community. Some of these sites have already Leen recognized for their hisi:nrical importance and are regis- tered state historical landmarks. it is proposed, however, that Che historical importance of all sites listed be preserved in a manner most appropriate to the individual site. olllone Indian Village. Site - (1700's) O'Keefe Lane and E1 Monte 1lveiiiie, L.os AITO_and Los Altos Hills, Registered Historical Point. of Interest, SCi n15. Indian Slrrinj, (1700's), Magdalena Avenue, permanent year-round source of water, through the Indian period and since. Indian "Meditation or Look -out " Point, (1700's), La Cresta Aveiiue,.-Lows and aornwo were omu(I ef-iind this seat. duan Prado Mesa Adobe Site, (18401s), Summerhill and E1Monte 1lveiiiies, Ilisorical Point of interest applied for. Juana Itriones Adobe., (1840's), Old Trace Road, Palo Alto. M. L. I:oenig Residence,(1800's), old Altos Road. Tndian Villa, (1RC,n's), Moody Road near Los Altos lulls, includes sl.age stop, 6lacksmi th shop, barn, and olive trees planted bY the Padres. - 53- tln ; 1,. of l Ol J_l race Itnad, (lD(,DIs), Fremont Avenue, near Arastradero Road, Palo Allo, rlriginall,y trail over which redwood loys were hauled Troll, bills to the bay for shipping. Moody Road, (1866) Petitioned for by G. W,Moody in 1867. Ran frinn I San Jose -San Francisco (toad to the Moody dome. Old Indian trail, lumber road, stage road. Gardner Bullis Residence, (1870's), MdnUP.ld Avenue, original Liiiee irornris u;'fii dw=t ng this time. Fregchnien's Tower> (1674), Old Pattie Mill Road south of Palo Alto. [iu if 4j -Peter CouLLS for water sLorage for his cattle farm and racing stable. Thomas Llright home, (16130's) (W. D. Frampton), Magdalena Avenue, Irii It-hy J.-Phale for his foreman, Thomas Wright, has undergone many changes. Captain Merx home, (1Bo5), (Dubrov), Dori Lane and Robleda. Merx's hus oe, fruit -house, and shed are now idnividually owned. while schoold in 901-1922, g built1 William P. Huth Residence, (loon's), Lennox Way and Burke Avenue, L.ns ATtos 1(lT-Is. former owner, Professor Madison of Stanford. Francis Avidano home, (1900's), Robleda Avenue, flow the Arthur ALlierlon home, architecturally unique. W. 1,,. if. Panofsky Ilome (1900's), Chapin Road. Built by a sea califain;_ architecturally unique. Willard H. _Griffin ilonre., (1901), 12345 El Monte Avenue; Criffin, a sLi�r e�frrnn Maine, hull[ his home in 1901. The carriage house, which now houses the. Foothill College Fire Department, was built in 1905, as was the Japanese Shrine situated by the District Offices. One -_room Purissima School, (1902), Chapel in the hills, Robleda and huva1 Way. Tire first school of the area, used until 1953 for school purposes, then rented out for social gatherings and town meetings. The Town of Los Altos hills used it for their early in the Hills. meetings. Flow ownrd and operated by the Chanel Ilene P. Dana home, (John Lohman), South Ll Monte, now the faculty Inose on the Foothill Conuaunii;y College Campus. Casnio_ George Morgan "Little Gables", (loin), Stonebrook Avenue, 6uilf liy ris son, Percy. Later home of William Simrell, founder of Los Altos Ilius. ferry Morgan Mansion, (ln14-1915), (Ford Country Day School), - 54 - ) Stonebrook Avenue. Tudor style house with headed glass panes 31n. 3. nit and fireplace from Europe. Four stone pieces from the hone of Ford Briusley Sheridan, London, dated 1660 and 1705. Now the Country bay School, owned and operated by Brent Warner. Thomas Shunmte,Residence, (1915), (flaplly Minns Nursery School), ViscainliDru ve. Npw operated by Flizahel.h Bl 10 (Jett as the IappY (lours Nursery School and Hills Elementary School. homer— hill Barn and Silo, (1915), Moody Road, Now the Wendell Roscoe property. Arthur E, Fuwle home, (1925), Isperanza (hive, the first honor- ary mayor of Los rit;os Hills. Elected to office but died before being seated. Now the Dr. J. 41. Render home. C'Crane Residence, (1926), (II. D. Winbigler), Fremont oad, tGe imine an11 water tower are architecturally unique. Adobe Creek_Lod e, (1935), Moody Road. Built as an English (:nein kry Cetate for Hilton Maas, is now the pronerty of David 6ellurci. C, f_gi•1 baWsen Residence, (1948), Magdalena Avenue, This heaUtl- ful es foie carries L6e name Rancho San Antonio. Syihu•y,.,61,_Treat Ilnme, (1946), Robleda Avenue. She first mayor of Lb, Town of I_ns Mins Bills. llue home is now owned by t:Ie Donald Campbells. Los Altos Bills Town hall, (1956), 26379 Freiwnt Road, the first Town hell. Corhetta "Parasol" home, (19fin), Corbetta Lane. Architecturally ioi toe. Coinposedof three identical stnuctures with scalloped goes L�'ls.Tf rlee years laterfirst one r,ithe,n therpart twoywleres added oo ertto ain comlete the nine room house, surrounded by a man-made lake. p Impleinemtation. It is proposed that the Town explore the possibility of liavin9 exjsting historically impnrtant structures designated as scale historical landmarks. IMstorical sites without structures ",,V leave to he purchased if the Town determines that In ahistorical any cas19- nificance vmrr•ants preservation in a natural state. any cass e, the historical significance of all sites should be evaluated prior to development. If the site is found to he of some significance, at the least, provision for historical connneuuoration should he required as part of level opmont, It is also proposed that the 'town historian, in conjunction with Town officials, establish a program for evaluation and preservation of historical sites. - 55 - RECREATION ELEMENT EXISTING GENERAL PLAN 1975 RECREATION ELEMENT dot 'The Recreation Element Provides guidelines for meeting the recre- ational needs of the Town. In the most comprehensive sense, recreation starts within the home and extends through comununity facilities and on to wider areas. phis recreation element is concerned with lands within the Los Altos Hills Planning Area that can provide recreation opportu- nities for use and enjoyment by residents. 402. The recreation areas proposed include open space preserves, open space conservation areas, public and private recreation areas and trails and paths. Most of these areas are dealt with in the open space element or the trails and paths element. The focus in this element will be on the role these areas should play in filling the overall recreational needs of 1.110 Town. 4113 A recreation element for local Ceneral Plans isrequired by the Skate Subdivision Man Act, if cities are to avail themselves of Section 11546 of the Act. Section 11546 permits the local jurisdiction to re- quire subdivisions to dedicate land for park and recreation purposes. Ilse Clement is required to set forth definite Principles and standards upon which dedication requirements are based. Objectives: 404 To provide recreation areas adequate to meet neighborhood and conn- munity needs of the Town. Principles: 1. Open space preserves should provide a variety of scale, from macro to micro. (See definitions in Open Space Element). These should provide informal recreation, such as hiking, riding and free play as well as visual pleasure. -56- 404.(c,nit. 2. Recreation activities requiring organiznd and developed spaces should be acconmodated at public recreation areas and school sites. 3. Public recreation areas should be specifically adapted to local needs and interests. 4. Private recreation areas should supply specialized recreation facilities not deemed a Town responsibility. 5. Trails and paths should constitute a major recreation facility in the Town and should link all recreation areas. 5. New residential subdivisions should provide open space for recreation to fill their appropriate share of the local recrea- tional needs. 7. Park and recreation areas should he utilized, and uses controlled so as to not adversely effect the surrounding residential areas. Standards: 405. 1. A11 residential areas should have public land available for recre- ation within approximately one-half to one mile distances. 2. The requirement of N1 above may be stet by open space preserve land in puhlic ownership and public recreation areas. 3. The acreage of public land available for recreation shall be not less than five percent of the residential area of the Town. Each numbered residential area described in the land use element shall meet this requirement. Description: 406. Each of the categories of land use shown on the General Plan Diagram which have recreation significance are described below as they relate to recreation use. 1. Open_9Lce Preserve. Also see description of open space preserve - 57 - AOG. L (Cont ) in the open space element. The large nmun Lain open space preserve (south of Moody Road), to thn ex1:ent it is developer) for public or private recreation, will help maet the recreation needs of the Town. This vast area is also suitable for meeting certain recreation needs of the mid - peninsula, which are of a lower intensity nature, can be accom- modated on available roads, and do not adversely effect neigh- boring properties. Byrne Park preserve is a Town -owned open space which should be kept entirely in its natural state. It is suitable for activi- ties such as hiking, riding, grazing and nature study. the open space preserve at Fremont and Concepcion Roads may take on a recreation use if it is developed lot, Town purposes as de- scribed in the land use element. The Ileary Quarry is shown as an open space preserve. It is doubtful that this site will ever be suitable for any use other than open space. Enhancement of the site as an open space pre- serve will be needed. 2. Open Space Conservation Areas. Also see description of open space conservation areas in the open space element. The open space conservation areas are by and large the open portions of lands which have some other primary use. Thus, those Portions of residential lots whirh are parts of major natural features such as creeks or canyons are shown in this category. Also, Portions of public school sites and other insti- tutions which are in open space are so indicated. A designa- tion as an open space conservation area does not necessarily -5B- uw z Lcont.l imply any public right of entry which is not otherwise pemitted by the primary use. It is recnnnnended, however, that in unsub- divided areas, open space conservation areas be conenitted to public ownership where possible and desirable. one such example 'is the public ownership along Adobe Creek in the Rhus Ridge Ranchos subdivision. 3. Recreation Area - Public. Most small-scale recreation areas for daily recreation needs of adults nnrl children are supplied on residents' own lots, in the form of ,yards, play equipment, swim- ming pools, riding facilities, and, in some instances, tennis courts. Large-scale recreation areas, however, must he provided at public recreation areas and school sites. the only Town -owned recreation facility is the Little League field un Purissima Road. The throe elementary schools and college site provide a vital supplement to the Little League field. 4. Recre„tion Area - Private. Private recreation facilities are very significant laid uses in the planning area. Thr. Palo Alto Hills Golf and Country Club and the Los Altos Country Club supply not only needed golfing facilities, but also provide large, attractive open spaces. The rrr_mont Ililis Country Club provides for a range of activities, inr.ludinq swimming, tennis and riding. The use is well located and serves a community need. Periodic review is needed to assure conLiuued compatibility with surrounding land uses. The Adobe Creek Lodge complex is a non -conforming use under the zoning regulations. The restaurant, picnic and country club activities attract many people from outside the Town and - 59 - I ofi. 4. (cont..) result. in extreme traffic congestion nn Moody Road at times. This use should be revised to meet the requirements of the General Plan arid 7oning nrdinance. The sil.e is basically suited to recreation or residential use. The Foothill Tennis and Swimming Club and the University Club of Palo Alto on Miranda Avenue (Palo Alto) in the northern portion of the planning area provide needed recreational facil- ities and Weir continuation is deemed desirable. The boarding stables provide another important private re- creation facility. The provision of stabling facilities on sites large enough to provide for necessary buildings, and cor- rals Fuld pastures is desirable. Also, such sites should be 10LIZOOd so as not to impinge upon residential and other non - equestrian facilities. Ideally, these facilities can be loca- ted next to open space preserves or could in fact be permitted on privately owned lands within open space preserves. Two existing stables meeting these criteria are shown on the Plan Ilingram. 5. Ilist:orical Sites. Historical sites can provide a significant recreation and education resource. These sites are described in the open space element and are therefore not described fur- ther here. C,. Lis ti to t iona I. Virtually all of the institutional uses provide for some forms of public or private recreation. of greatest importance are tile recreation facilities at public schools. The degrele of importance of the public schools in supplyinq recrea- tion should be further• determined to better allow the Town to react to various school district proposals for closing schools. - 60 - CONSERVATION ELEMENT EXISTING GENERAL PLAN 1975 n7. (cont. 5esi dent! al areas. These areas characteristically do not generate suffi- cient property taxes to support the urban improvements and services re- quired in more intensively developed areas. The Town sees the maintenance of this balance as vital to its continuance as a rural residential area. C011_S_E_R_VATIOM ELEMENT 601 The Conservation Element defines conservation policy and provides a programmatic framework for the conservation and utilization of natural resources, and for protecting the aesthetic qualities of the community. If the natural quality of the Los Altos Hills environment is to be main- tained, citizesn must be aware of the problems and issues faced by ttte Toon, both of local avid regional nature. There are some problems that can be successfully dealt with locally, but many environmental concerns, e.g., air and water pollution, require inLerjurisdictinnal cooperation on an area -wide or regional basis. Lt addition, some concerns, such as protection of rare or endangered species, may require cooperative efforts between the Town and public and private agencies at the state or national levels. 602In the following sections of this element, general conservation issues are discussed and suggestions for dealing with associated problems are advanced. Although these issues are interrelated, they have been categorized for purposes of description and provision of a framework for conservation planning. This document does out, however, raise all issues. It is intended to be a beginninq point in a program to provide solutions to the no ny environmental problems faced 'today. Objectives: 1. To develop and implement programs by which the natural environ- mental features o6 Live planning area can be conserved to the - 64 - 602 r (cone"t maximum extent feasible and by which areas already unduly dis- turbed by man can be returned to a more natural condition. To ensure that in the planning, development and use of land, environmental impact is not overlooked, conservation actions are considered, and such evaluations and actions are sufficiently comprehensive and in accord with established guidelines, Principles: (iO3 1. All public and private projects that may have significant impact on the I_os Altos Ilills environment: should be professionally re- viewed. The results of such review should be analyzed and, where necessary, appropriate public action taken to ensure against irre- versihle damage. 2. In the planning, environmental impact review, and completion of all land development or land alteration projects, particular e Lt:en Linn should be directed toward protection of the natural water regimen. 3, peinnval of vegetation should be minimized and replanting required to mainl:ain soil stability, prevent erosion, and retain the aes- thetic quality of the eoaununity. q. An overriding consideration in the design of any land development project should be conservation of the natural slope, and preserv- ing existing native vegetation, and also conservation of natural drainage channels and swales since they serve in place of arti- ficial storm drainage systems. 5. it, landscaping of individual sites and replanting where original vegetation has been destroyed or, removed, emphasis should be on the use of native rather than exotic Plants. In those areas of high fire risk, however, it may he preferable to introduce care- -65- tens It1 fully chosen exotics with high fire resistance characteristics. h. Zoning and other land use regulations should be used to limit and, in some cases, prohibit development in areas of identified geologic hazards, such as fault zones, identified active land- slides, and other areas identified as highly unstable. 7. The geologic and soils conditions of proposed development sites should be analyzed to ensure land stability and foundation bear- ing capabilities and to determine septic tank filter field limit- ations if sanitary sewers are not proposed. 11. Topsoil destruction through overuse by motor vehicles or horses should be considered in environmental impact review and preven- tive measures should be required where necessary. In those areas where topsoil has been destroyed, remedial measures should be iniliaced and pursued. g. Those areas rich in wildlife or of a fragile ecological nature, e.g., areas of rare or endangered species of plants, riparian areas, etc., should be avoided in land development. Where ne- cessary, these areas should be publically acquired to ensure their protection. 10. The use of pesticides should he strictly controlled to ensure that deleLerlous materials will not find their way into local streams nr cause other forms of contamination. 11. participation in and support Of, to the extent possible, the con- servation efforts of other .jurisdictions, agencies, or organiza- tions, which are of mutual benefit to the Town, should be pursued. 12. Conservation education programs in the local schools should be supported, and when necessary to respond to local problems, spe- cific, educational programs or compaigns should be initiated and - 66 - (d)7 .1 2.(cont.) carried through. Uescri pti on: ervation action is described below and related 604 The framework for cons to the elements of the Los Altos Ilills environment, their unique charac- teristics, their interrelationships, and to actions for environmental pro- tecLion. As a Part of the framework, the natural resources detailed in Section 65203(d) of the Government codehave been grouped into five basic resource catecinri es: a. Water - surface creeks, pools and ground water b. vegetation - native and exotic C. Soils and geology it. Wildlife e. Air. In addition to these resource categories, the basic framework for general conservation action consists of the following action components: a. Government regulation b. Acquisition of critical areas c. lechnical advice d, Education e. Incentives f. slieciric remedial activity. 605 In I:he following sections the resource categories are defined in terns of potential problems associated with the Los Altos Hills environment. In addition, specific proposals for conservation of resources, and mitigating Potential problems, are provided in description of action components. 606. In reviewing the following so, ctimrs, it must he kept in mind that all elements of the environment are interrelated and that conservation actions need to be coordinated. This means, in part, that methods for dealing with one prohlem should be evaluated to minimi7e negative consequences that may result in relation to other resources. Such evaluation will help provide for maximum effectiveness of conservation efforts. 1. HaWral Resource catorries. Although the natural resource cate- gories are described separately below, they have, to the extent -67- 606, I.(coil c.i possible, been viewed as part of tine interrelated system. a. Wafer - r. reeks,ponds and nMluidwater the conservation of the natural drainage systems associa- ted with the Los Altos Ilills Planning Area is one of the most important tasks before the Town. Control of the up- stream portions of these drainage systems is important both to Los Altos Ilills and to the downstream communities of the Midpeninsula. Appropriate land use and control of develop- ment on watershed lands is essential to prevent widespread damage in the lower reaches of the creeks through siltation (from upstream erosion), flooding, and loss of flow in the creek in the dry seasons. Effects of inappropriate use and development in the steep portions of tine watershed would imme- diately be observed and felt in Los Altos Ilills. Except for changes from the "natural" condition, noticeable impact ou downs Cream areas would he delayed but inevitable. Any alterations to the drainage system that would signi- ficantly change the natural flow of water would also affect wildlife species that are dependent on the riparian community for survival. Watershed lands supply the riparian wildlife community with a continual source of water. It is, therefore, imperative that watershed lands be protected to ensure the maintenance of the natural water flow and water quality essen- tial for protection of the riparian coumunityy. b. Ve,ge to Linn= native and exotic Vegetation cover, in addition to contributing to the beauty of the area, helps to maintain the quality of watershed lands, aids in erosion control, and is an important element W.11M hue. r. b. tcMii .) of the wildlife habitat. In addition, it helps maintain air quality through reoxygenation, and reduces noise impact. Broadleaf -conifer forests and chaparral form the predominant vegetative communities on the hillsides leading up to Monte Bello Ridge and Kaiser Ridge. They serve to prevent erosion, and protect the quality of the watershed. These wooded areas also support a wide variety of animal life. lhree other significant vegetative types which occur with- in Lhe Planning Area are the mired oak woodlands, the chap- arral, and the grassland -savanna areas. Generally, the oak woodlands tend to support a higher diversity of organisms than du grasslands. The chaparral areas represent a particularly high fire hazard during the dry seasons of the year. c. soils -and Geology_ The lifestyle associated with the Los Altos IHlls Planning Area, as described throughout this Plan, is one of rural living on large lots with many residences located on moderate to steeply sloping hillsides. Develonment in some cases has occurred without adequate evaluation of soils and geologic characteristics which may present significant limitations, and, in some cases, should preclude development. When ade- quate information has been available, assurances have not always been made that the information would tie heeded in de- sign and development of roads and foundations of structures. The potential for danger, from development of land that is less geologically stable exists; problems are not uncommon frons establishment of septic tank drainfields in impermeable or unstable soils. ir addition, excessive vegetative removal 69 - enr, i ic,,,,r ) I,y grading during construction has created soil erosion pro- blems , as has overgrading and overuse of certain areas by equestrians. d. _Wildlife Continued development has occurred with little conscious concern for conservation of wildlife habitats, sometimes with the result that natural species are driven out. At the same time, man has introduced other species into the ecosystem Lhat may have drastic effects upon both the native animal and plant populations of a given area, For example, there is a significant amount of space in Los Altos lills devoted to the maintenance of horses, and these areas are often se- verely damaged by the overgrazing and trampling of the ani- mals. The greater portion of the area is relatively undis- turbed and serves as the habitat of a diverse wildlife popu- lation. Conservation of this habitat is not only important for protection of wildlife, but also for conservation of the rural atmosphere of the couununity. e. Air The problem of air pollution continues to be a major en- vironmental concern, Clean air is a resource people require for survival, not only directly through breathing, but also for the maintenance of their food resources, both plant and animal. Scientific evidence linking air pollution with major respiratory diseases and with extensive economic losses has been widely documented. Although Los Altos Hills alone can accomplish only a limited amount toward improving air quality, it can influence regional, state, and federal actions - 70 - 606. 1.e.(cn n r..l needed for abatement of air pollution. p• Crnnponents of Conservation Action Procrani. Los Altos Hills has adopted important regulations directed at attaining certain con- servation objectives; however, to provide a comprehensive basis for conservation, development and utilization of natural resources, additional regulations and other actions are needed. Some actions, particularly regulation, can be taken by the Town at the local level, while others will require interjurisdictional cooperation as for air pollution control. In addition, many actions, e.9., remedial work programs, will be dependent upon both public and private efforts if conservation objectives are to be realized. the following actions should be pursued in a coordinated man- ner to ensure maximum effectiveness in environmental protection: a, Government Re u9 lations Responsibility: Town Regulations already adopted by Los Altos hills go a long way toward ensuring protection of the environment. 1) Environmental Impact Review (EIR) - The Town, through the EIR process, required by the State, has the mechanism to review in depth the potential consequences of any de- velopment on the natural resources of the area. When specific projects are proposed and must include EIR's based on adopted Town guidelines, applicants should be required to deal with questions raised from initial Town review of the project site in relation to problems associated with the natural resource categories described earlier. for those areas where current information is inadequate, e.g., detailed soils and geology, structural 606. 2. a.(cont .) resistance to earthquakes, fire hazard, etc., EIR's are required to provide the detailed information needed for evaluation. 7) Tonin Ordinances - The Zoning Ordinance should be amended to include natural hazard regulations. fault line zoning, other geologic hazard regulation, and more specific regu- lations dealing with areas of high fire hazard, can help ensure conservation of natural resources and protection of the public health and safety. 3) Site Oevelo mp ent Ordinance - The Town Site Development Ordinance should be used to require adequate consideration of soils, geology, drainage, wildlife, vegetation and associated fire hazards during project review. 4) Building PermitReview - The Building Permit Review pro- cess should be amended to require that foundation design and construction be certified by soils engineers and en- gineering geologists where soils and geologic investigation required as part of subdivision approval or building site approval indicate that such certification is essential. h. Acquisition of Critical Areal Responsibility: Inter,jurisdictional; Public and Private The Town should assign to the Environmental Design Committee the objective of defining areas of critical ecological signi- ficance. In addition, this cnmunittee could develop an imple- mentation program for the protection of these areas, including acquisition by the Town or other agencies or organizations, such as the California Native Plant Society, the Sierra Club, the Mid-pfol usula Regional Park District, etc. - 72- 606.2.(cunt.) c. Technical Advice Iees pons ibi l i ty: Town Staff; Environmental Design Comnmittee The Town Staff and Environmental Design committee should develop a system for accumulation of relevant conservation information and sources of technical advice. Information on sources of advice should be included and made available to residents through Town Hall and public shcools. Such infor- mation and other references should be available for educa- H oval programs and for individual use in dealing with speci- fic problems. This information will also help Town staff in FIR analysis. Where detailed information is not currently available, e.g., analysis of critical fire hazard areas, fault zones, or detailed soils analysis, Town Staff should coordinate efforts for acquiring needed information from producing agencies. d. I: ducat i on Responsibility: Town Staff, Officials, Committees Interjurisdictional Cooperation Puhlic School Districts Private Organizations the possihilities should he explored of additional public education and information programs dealing with problems associated with natural resource conservation and utilization. This should be done by Town Staff and elected and appointed officials, particularly the Environmental Design committee, in cooperation with school officials at all levels. The expanded use of instructional materials based on local envir- onmental conditions would be desirable in local elementary and high schools and the connnunit,y college. Similar materials should also be available for adult educational classes. Dis- - 73- 606, 2.d. con- cussion should he initiated of an expanded conservation education program in cooperation with the local school dis- I,ric.ts and other jurisdictions. in addition, special semi- nars and classes including public meetings and information sessions with private clubs or groups should be sponsored. When other public agencies or conservation groups are sponsoring information sessions on subjects of mutual concern, the Town should assist in publicizing events. This could be accomplished through direct communication with Town officials, or notices posted on bulletin boards at Town Hall. Town Nall could also serve as a basic source of information on topical conservation problems. Information could be dis- played focusing on seasonal or currently relevant topics such as reduction of fire risk, pest control and pesticides., measures to prevent erosion, positive soil husbandry prac- tices, care of vegetation, etc. In addition, special conser- vation or ecology projects conducted by local schools could be publicized or displayed as appropriate. e, Incentives Responsibility: Town Staff and Officials Interjurisdic,tional Cooperation The use of incentive programs tbai; could result in the conservation of important natural resource areas should be actively explored. Incentives in the form of tax relief or some other form of financial rebate, e.g., the Williamson Act, Income tax allowance for land gifts, etc., would be important in this regard. New forms of tax relief would require a higher level of public involvement (state and federal legislation) to enable flexibility at the local 74 606. 2. e. lcout.) level, but policy could be adopted in favor of such incen- tives. Specific consideration should be given to the impact on local property tax revenues with costs and benefits fully evaluated. Specific Remedial Activity Itef.ponslbility: Town Staff, Officials and Conservation Committee Private Organizations Individual Residents Property Owners In some cases, remedial activity, to be effective, niay require participation of all segments of the conmwnity. In most cases, however, individual initiative by local residents and property owners will be sufficient to carry out specific efforts for protection of the environment, such as: - replanting to prevent erosion - control or elimination of exotic weed species - proper use of appropriate pesticides - retnoval of dead vegetation to reduce fire hazard - replacement of highly flammable vegetation with less flaimnable materials - use of native plants in preference to exotics in replanting - treatment of diseased trees - protection of stream side vegetation. These activities may require Town review if they are pro- posed as part of specific projects for land use or development. In any case, such remedial activities should be kept track of, to the extent possible, to make sure they are based on the best technical advice available. In cases where the extent of the pr,obleni includes an area larger than an individual ownership, cooperative or co- ordinate effort would be needed. In such cases, the Town can play an important role. Sonne activities such as removal of any long-standing obstruction to natural drainage or resto- -75- 016.2. f. ( cont.) ration of stream sides have such great potential for adverse impact that review by Town officials prior to action would be desirable in all cases. in addition to the specific remedial efforts, a procedure should be developed for monitoring, to the extent possible, knnwn or potential environmental prohlems to ensure that ir- reversible damage will not occur. Examples of problems that might be monitored include stream siltation, pollution of subsurface and surface waters, soil erosion, the poten- tial or imminent danger associated with fire hazard areas (in conjunction with the Fire District), the destruction of soil by man and animal or other forms of environmental mis- use, the potential or imminent danger from land instability, particularly landslides, etc. The extent of momi Loring ac- tivity that can he conducted is constrained by financial limitations. Town Staff, To cooperation with informed and concerned citizens, however, should be able to establish a basic procedure for tracking those existing or potential problems of greatest concern. - 76 - ATTACHMENT (a To: Los Altos Hills Planning Commission From: Nancy Couperus, LAH Open Space Committee Re: California General Plan Requirements related to Open Space Date: January 25, 2007 Dear Commissioners A postcard listing five proposed amendments to the General Plan was recently sent out to residents. Three of these (wildlife corridors, riparian habitat, and invasive plants) relate to input provided by the Open Space Committee to the Draft General Plan Subcommittee, and we thought it would be helpful to provide you with some background as to why these issues me raised in conjunction with the Town's General Plan efforts. To make a long story short, the State of California directs as to address these tonics Because the General Plan serves as the critical underpinnings of how the Town conducts its business and creates legislation, the State has documented the process and issues of updating a General Plan in its "State of California Requirements for General Plans." This document helps provide the basis for the aforementioned amendments in our Conservation and Open Space Elements, as it lists aspects that our General Plan is supposed to cover, many of which are missing from our current General Plan. Below are five selected relevant highlights from the State's "Requirements for Genera[ Plans" that we hope illuminate the State's expectations of our General Plan (emphases ours): [a] Wildlife Habitats and Corridors: Chapter 4 —Conservation page 77— Wildlife • Inventory natural vegetation, fish wildlife and thew habitat including rare, threatened, and endangered species. (This includes) identifying the type of animals that might be found in a particular habitat, the time of yew they might be found there, and their activities (e.g. winter range, breeding, etc...) • Assess the potential effects of development on the continuity of plant and wildlife habitats. • Analyze the potential for development patterns to fragment plant and wildlife Wildlife Habitats Description of the species distribution, and population of wildlife and fish, including rare and endangered species. Normally, this will coincide with habitat inventory that includes: location and types of bodies of water; type, location and extent of plants identified according to the State Department of Fish and Game's classification system; and, identification of key wildlife habitats including winter ranee and migration routes for deer, wintering and nesting grounds for water fowl and other 66=ds, salmon spawning areas, and habitats of rare or endangered species. [c] Riparian Habitat and Corridors: Chapter 4 - Conservation page 76 The conservation element may also cover the following optional issues: • The protection of watersheds • Inventory water resources, including [...J watersheds - Biologic diversity and its implications for the ecologic sustainability of plant and wildlife habitats. • Map riparian vegetation. [d] Riparian Habitats and Corridors: Chapter 4 -Conservation Daae 81 The following list of subjects that should be considered during the preparation of the conservation element and included as development policies to the extent that they are locally relevant: • The type and intensity of development in or adjacent to water bodies and courses. • The protection, use, and development of bodies of water and water courses (i.e. streams) • The protection of and development in watersheds and aquifer recharge areas • The preservation of wetlands. • The conservation of riparian vegetation. • The protection of beaches, lakeshores and rivers and stream banks • The protection of soil erosion. • Delineation of the boundaries of watersheds, aquifer recharge areas... Delineation of the boundaries and description of unique water resources (e.g.streams). Description of species of rare and endangered plants, their distribution and rate of occurrence. Additional Resources for Wildlife & Riparian Policies We are familiar with two state agencies who have programs to help local communities with planning related to wildlife and riparian habitat preservation: California Department of Fish & Game State of California Wildlife Conservation Board These agencies can provide information and assistance for the preparation of the Open and Conservation Elements. The Wildlife Conservation Board has a California Riparian Habitat Conservation Program (see attached information from website). This program "has a basic mission to develop coordinated conservation efforts aimed at protecting and restoring the state's riparian ecosystems." Also, many local governments have already put together Riparian Corridor Policies, most notably the City of San Jose, whose "Riparian Corridor Policy" has been used as a model for a number of local communities. The discussion of riparian concems in the updated General Plan are, we feel, in accordance with the precedent and spirit of these plans. With respect to wildlife concems, you are probably familiar with the fact that the Town is in the final stages working with Live OakAssociares, an environmental firm in San Jose, to complete a study of our local wildlife, with the goal of creating detailed maps intended to assist the Town's planners in their analysis of development proposals by providing actionable data related to sensitive wildlife habitats. The amendments in the updated General Plan elements are, we feel, consistent with the Town's efforts in this area. Chapter a: Required Dements of the General Phn�onsernUen gent efforts to achieve public panioipation of all eco- nomic segmemu of the community in the development of the housing element. An effective public participation process should be- gin at the outset of the housing element update pro- cess. Members of the community should be involved in evaluating the accomplishments of the previous ele- ment, identifying currant needs, resourcos and con• straints, As well As assisting in the development of community goals, policies and actions. Moat cornmu- nitin engage residents in the process prior to prepar- ing the draft element- In addition to holding required public hearings at the planning commission and city council or board of supervisor level, an adequate and effective citlun participation process must include ad- ditional steps to creme the public participation of all economic segments of the community (including low - and moderatedncome households). The housing Ne• meat should describe efforts by the locality to: ♦ Include all economic segments of thecommunity in the public participation process. ♦ Circulate the housing element among homing Ad- voCates, organizations serving lower inoomehoue. holds and individuals. ♦ Involve such groups end persons to the develop- ment of the element Alan, see discussion of General Plan pulei partici- pation in Chapter 8. Technical Assistance The Colifomia Department of Housing and Com- munity Development has extensive materiels available to assist in the preparation of local housing elements and Appreciates the opportunity to facilitate the preps. ration and implementation ofhousing elements. How. i4 elementted heel Assistance imbrication is available on HCD's website at wom had.ca.gov. Refer to the Di- vision of Housing Policy Development end the section pertaining to State Homing Planning. Among other items, the Housing Element section contains the department's publication Homiag Element Queedonr and Answers and the Govemmant Code sections ad- dressing state homing element law. In addition to a variety of demographic data, in. oluding Census data, HCD's website includes informa. tion about planning and community development Iowa, homing element update schedule and review status of homing elements. MCD also operates a computerized database, the Clearinglwuse fwAffordable Homing and Community and Econornic Development Finance, to provide up-to-date date information about fmanci it re- sources available to local governments, housing devel. oyer and sponsors. CONSERVATION ELEMENT The conservation element provides direction regard. ing the conservation, development and utilisation of natural resources. Its requirements overlap those of the open -span% land use, safety, and circulation elements. The conservation element is distinguished by being primarily oriented toward natural resources. Population growth and devdopmem ocmintmlly re• quire the use of both renewable and nonrenewable re- sources. One role of the conservation element is to establish policies that reconcile conflicting demands on those resources. In raraot years, somejurisdictions have adopted policies related to mitigation banning, conservation euament programs, and the ante and fed- eral Endangered Species acts in their conservation el- ements. Other local jurisdictions have incorporated policies related to Natural Community Conservation Planning (NCCP) programs. NCCP is a broad-based Approach to the regional protection of plants and am - mals and theirhabiurs while allowing for compatible and Appropriate economic activity. This And other programs, such As those under the Williamson Act (§51230, ct e sq) and the Timberland Productivity Act (§51100, e seg.), provide important implementation tools. Coo rt and Attorney General Icterprentlons As ofthis writing, the conservation element has not been the specific subject of either court decisions or legal opinions of the California Attorney General. Relevant hues To the extent that they are relevant, the following issues must be addressed with regard to the coaserva- lion, development and utilization of natural resources: ♦ Water and itshydraulic fora ♦ Forests ♦ Soils ♦ Rivers and other waters ♦ Harbors ♦ Fisheries ♦ Wildlife ♦ Minerals ♦ Other natural resources The discussion of water in the conservation element General Plan Guidelines 75 Chapter 1: Required Elements of the General Plan --Conservation must be prepared in coordination with water supplier and include any information on water supply and de- mand prepared pursuant to $65352.5. The conserve - tion element may also Cover the following optional issues: ♦ The reolo ation of land and waters. ♦ The prevention and control of the pollution of streams and other water. ♦ The regulation of the use of land in stream chan- nels and other sea required for the anccmplisb- mem of the conservation plan. ♦ The prevention, 000trol, and correction of the ero- sion of soils, beeches, and ahmes. ♦ The protection of watersheds. ♦ The location, quantity, and quality of rook, send, and gravel resources and other minereds of FWte- wide or local significance. ♦ Flood control and floodplain reamil m—L ♦ Biologic diversity and it implications for the eco- logic sustainability of plant and wildlife habitats. Ideas for Data and Arelysls Evaluating and quamifying a city's or County's nmu- rsl rcMWM, including rite condition end sustairsability of natural resources sysusns, is necassafy for the prepa- rationof, m,ptab eaiveconservationelemertLAnaly- ses should be based upon sound ecologic principles and should recognize the relationships among natural com- munities and the importance of the natural eov'vonntent in land use planning. The following is a list of idea for date and analysis that should be considered in the de- velopment of locally relevant policies for the comer- vation, development, and utilization of natural resources. Wager ♦ Inventory water resources including rivers, lakes, streams, bays, estuaries, reservoirs, groundwater basins (squifars), and warercbeds. (MAP) (Z, 0) ♦ Identify the boundaries of watersheds, aquifer re- charge area, and groundwater bums (including depths). (MAP) L, O) ➢ Asses local and regional water supply and the related plats of special districts and other agencies. ➢ Analyu the existing land we and zoning within said boundaries end the approximate intensity of water consumption. ♦ Map the boundaries and describe unique Cotta re- 76 General %an Guidalinas sources (e.g., saltwater and freshwater mershaand wild river). (L, O) ♦ Assess the current and Ponce quality of various bodies of watar, water courses, and groundwater. (I.0) ♦ Inventory existing and future water supply sources For, residential, art social, industrial, and agncul- turd uses. (L, 0) ♦ in conjunction with water suppliers, use" exist- ing and projected demands upon water supply wwm, including agricultural, cormnerda), reai- dential, industrial, and public demands. (L, 0) ♦ In conjunction with water suppliers, assess the ad- equacy of existing and future water supply sources. (L, O) ♦ Map riparian vegetation. (L. O) ♦ Assess; the use of water bodies for recreations' Pur- poses. (L, O) Forertt ♦ Inventory forest resourocs and perform a compre- henaive analysis of conservation needs for forests and woodlands and of the interrelationships forests and woodlands have with watersheds. (MAF) (L. O) ➢ Describe the type, location, amount, and ownership of forests with a value for Com- mercial timber production, wildlife protec- tion, recreation, watershed protection, aesthetica and other Purposes. ➢ project alternative land uses within resource areae, including density and intensity of de- ve)opment. ➢ Describe the types location, amount. and lot sine of land end timber resources subject to tlmberiand production zoning. D Identify area of five acres or mon contain - Ing oak woodlands made up of Blue, Engelman, valley. w Coat Live oak species. (MAP) Soils ♦ Inventory soil resourm. (MAP) (L, 0) ➢ Describe the location, acreage, and exted of different soil types and farmland soils (inciud- ingprime fvndaod) in the planning eras using dee None, K"umrs Conservatims Service's Lund Capability Classification System or the Slone Index. ➢ Identify areas subject w soil erosion sod landslides. Chapter 4 Required Elements of the General Plain—Conser+adon .�.. > Map land within Agricultural Preserves and/ or subject to Williamson AG contracts or Farmland Security Zona contracts. > Identify addition&] areas potentially qualify- ing for inclusion in Agricultural Preserves at other agricultural preservation programs. Harbors ♦ Assess the adequacy of port, harbor, and waw -re- lated transportation facilities and the need for ex- pansion and improvements. (I., CI) > GatherhisloriW daft on the use ofWilities. > Project future demand based on new or ex. panded economic activities and recreational treads. > Review harbor and port district plans for in. formation on planned improvements. .bTsheries ♦ Identify water bodies and watersheds that must be protected or rehabilitated to promote continued rec- reational and commercial fishing, inciudingkeyfish spawning are". ♦ Evaluate water quality, temperature, and worms of contaminates. • Identify physical barriers (mac -caused or natural) to fish populations within the watershed. ♦ Identify waw both" used for subsistence fishing. wildlife ♦ Invemorynataralvegaatiomfish,wlldlife,mdthetr habitats, including tare, threatened, a ad endangered specie. (MAP) (i., O) > Inventory plants, natural communities, and special mimals using the Department of Fish and Games Natural Diversity Database. lire database coven all am -,of the state and pro- duces overlay printouts for use with USGS quadrangle maps. > Identify the type of animals that might be found in a particular habitat, the time ofyear they might be found there, and their activi- ties (e.g., winter range, breeding, ate.) using information from the Department of Fish and Game's Wildlife Habftd Relationships Pro. gram. Contact the Wildlife Management Di- vision of the Department offish and Game for more infettnation. ➢ Consult with the Department of Fish and Game and U.S. Fish and Wildlih Service regarding listed species > Analyze any adopted Habitat Conservation Pim or Natural Communities Conservation Plan for pertinent policies. (0) ♦ Assess the potential effects of development on the continuity of plant and wildlife habitats. > Analyze the potential for development pat- tems to fiagment plant and wildlife habitat. > Anllyze regional trends in development to determine their effects on natural resources. Mtnvats, including rock, sorsa and gravel reror a ♦ Inventory mineral resources. (MAP) (L, O) > Identify the type, location, extent, and qual- ity of mineral. oil, gas, and geothemsal re- sources. (0) ➢ Locate mineral resource areas classified or designated by the State Mining and Geology Board under the Surfs. Mining and Rocla- mation ACL (MAP) (L. O) D Identify existing mining areas and oil, gas and geothermal wells (and associated devel- opmants). (MAP) (L, O) Reclamation of land • Inventory lands adversely affected by mining, prolonged irrigation, landfill activities, the stor- age or disposal of hazardous materials, erosion, etc., for which reclamation may be feasible. (MAP) (L, O) • Review existing mines for compliance with ap- proved plans of operation. (1) ♦ Review previous reclamation projects for consis- tency with the approved standards ofthe reclama- tion plan. > Contact the Department of Conservation's Office of Mine Reclamation for information concerning mining activities, reclamation standards, and pemtincil mining sites. Pollution of water bodter ♦ Examine the existing water quality in aquifers, streams, and other bodies of waw. ♦ Identify existing and potential water pollution sources. D Inventory hazardous materials dumps, ponds, and storage sifts using information plans de- veloped pursuant to HrOth and Safety Code §25500, et seq. > Identify proposed, existing, and abandoned General Plam Guidelines 77 Chapter 1: Required Elements of the General Plan—Conservedon Useful Definitions: Conservation Element (Continued) past and bituminous rock, but excluding pother. (=200) per acm for three of the previous five years mal ruources, Ivtural gas, and petroleum (Public (15 1201 (c)). (NOTE -This statutory definition may Resources Code $2005). Geld, sand, gravel, clay, be Somewhat deud.) cashed Stora, amestene. diatomite, salt. borate, Mne miela Natural Resources: Resources that can potash, etc., art examples of minerals. Despite the be replaced by nawrai ecological cycles or Sound statutory delinidon of"minerW" governments management practices (e.g. form and pian"). may also womi m comWer geothermal, peo-okum and natural gas resources along with chair planning,�Riparian Habitee The Land and plants bordering a S-" „u,,.rale. watercourse or Wee. Nen-Reneivable Natural Rasourtee: Inanimate m- aeurcu chat do not Inerwe signlRundY with d -- and whose use diminishes tits total stock (e.g., min- erals,foss0 fuels and fo 11 water). prime /agricultural Land: "Prime agricultural Land" means the following: (i) All lend which quallMr for rating u Class 1 or Clue 11 in the Natural Resources ConserndOn Service land we capability dassifiudons. (2) Land which qualifies for rating 80 through 100 In dw Stone Index Rating. ()) Lund which supports livestock wed for the Pro- duction of food and fiber and which hu an annual carrying capacity equMknt to at lean one animW unit per acre as claimed by the United Sous De- partment of Agriculture. (1) Land planed with fruit- Or nu4besling trate, vines,bwhes. or crops that have a non-bearing pe- riod of Lass than five years and which will normally return during the commercial bearing period on an annual bull from the prvduedon of unprocessed UMculwral plant production not less than two hun- dred dollars ($200) per sat. (S) Land that has returned from the production of unprocessed agricultural plant products an annual gross value of trot leas then two hundred dollars l tion measures. • Identify air quality lmpaota 6om vehicle eadaaiona. D Identify air quality impacts from all other solutes. Inventory erwrgy-producing resources and energy conservation opportunities. Y Inventory roseuroes, including wind, solo, hydroelectric, and biomass (using forest do- mestic, and agricultural wastes). 7 InYerROry Cltergy 0onaavall0n OppOrtWltiee, including transportation economies, urban 80 General Plan Guidellnea Stone IndacA numerical System (0 -IDD) rating the da' gm to which a p"Mkar toll can grow plan" w pro- duce crops, bred on four facton, Induding soil pro. file.surfaa tndure,slope. and sell Rmhadons. Timben"Trees of any species maintained for eventual harvest for forest products purposes, whether planted or of neral growth. standing or down, on privately or publicly owned land. including Christ- mas trees. but does not mean nursery stock" (551101([)). Timberland production ZoticAn area which has been toned pursuant to 551112 or SS 1113 and is de- voad to and used for growing and harvadng Sim - ben or for growing and hervtsdng timber and com- puible uses. Watershed: The total ansa above a given point on a watercourse that contributes water to the flow of the wammu.no;the entire region drained by a wa- tercourse. Wetlands Amos dot an pamaner* wet or periodb pgy lowered with shallow water such as svhwatar and frashwater norshes, open or closed braeldsh memb",swamps,mud&Mvo W poob.and feru.Thk else Includu wetlands under the loris licdon of the uSArmy Corps ofEnginaerswhich encmm nal pock and other tarots with hydrology, lolls,,and vegetadon meeting federal regulatory standards. design (i.e., land use patterns), and residen- Dai, commerokl, and industrial consmadon programs. Idea for Development Policies The roaeervslion elasnent should oontaio objectives, policies, principles• plan proposals, and standards for the oonservation, development and utilization of a jurisdiction's natural resourow. Policies sbould be spe- cific croup), to cover the individual mourasyet broad and inclusive enough to include the natural systems from which they are produced. The following is a list Chapter 4: Required Semmes of the Gavard Pian--Conservauon of subjects that should be considered during the prepa- ration of the conservation element and included as da velopment policies to the extend that they are locally relevant. e The type and intensity of development in or adja- cent to water bodies and contract. (L, O) e The protection, use, and development of bodies of water and water courses (i.e., rivers, takes, scrams, bays, harbors, estuaries, marshes, and reservoirs). (0) ♦ The protection of and deVCIDPmant in watersheds and aquifer recharge area. (L, O) life communities and sensitive watersheds. (0) e The development and improvement of pDrL harbor, and waterway facilities. (Cl) ♦ The protection of water bodies end watersheds that are important for the mmagement of commercial and recreational fishing. (L, O) > Protection ofwaterbodies that we important for subsistence fishing. e The protection of fish and wildlife end their habi- tats. (0) ♦ The protection of plant species and their habitats. (0) ♦ The anh moemant and protection of the quality of + fie preservation and protection ofrs ,threatened, surface water resoutrou and the prevention of con. or endangered species within the planning area, in - nomination. eluding candidate species and species of special ♦ The protection or impmvemmt of water quality. (0) concern consistent with state and federal regnla- ♦ The reservation of wetlands includin jurisdic- tions and law, (0) P B tional wetlands and saltwater and freshwater marshes consistent with federsl and state require- ments. (0) e The protection of wild rivers and their watersheds. (0) ♦ The provision of domestic, industrial, and agnioul. turel water. (0) ♦ The conservation of water supplies (ground and sur. face). ♦ The conservation of riparian vegetation. (0) e The designation and utilization of hydroelectric power generating sites. (MAP) (L) e The management and protection of forestry re. sources. (L, 0) ♦ The conservation of forests for wildlife protacti(M, recreation, aesthetic purposes, W. R, 0) h The conservation of osk woodlands. (0) e The application oftimbaland pmductionzoning.(L) e The rezoning of land zoned for timberland product tion. (L) e The minimization of conflict between agrioultural and urban land on through transitions in Ind use designations, (L) e The management and use of agricultural soils. (L, O) e The control and prevention of erosion. (0, S) ♦ The encouragement of the use of public advisory committees to develop landscape-Isvel goals, stan- dards, and meeeurea for protecting plant and wfld- e The promotion of congruency and cooperation with the management plans and policies of other local, state, and federal agencies, non -profits, and other groups involved with the preservation of resources. e The recognition and implementation of enacted Habitat Conservation Plans (includingmultispmics plans) and Natural Communities Conservation Pro- grama. (0) e The protection, use, and development of mineral deposits, including oil, gas, and geothermal rt- .souroes- (This should include policies developed - underthe Surface Mining and Reclamation Act See Chapter 9.) (0) ♦ Development adjacent to or neer mineral deposits, mining sites, and oil, gas, and geothermal develop - metric. (L, 0) ♦ Land reclamation in areas where mining, Prolonged irrigation, landfill activities, hazardous materials storage or disposal, erosion, em., have occurred. (L) ♦ The establishment ofresource conservation areas - (0) a The elimination of existing water pollution aDWCea. e The development, improvement, and timing ofma- jor sewar, water, and stomt drainage projects needed to maintain water quality. (L, Cl) e The citing of landfills in relation to water bodies (among other considerations). e The siting ofhemrdous materials storage and dis- posal facilities with regard to nearby water bodies (among other considerations). (L) General Plan Guidelines 91 Chapter 4: Required Elements of the General Plan—Open SPaea Arses required for the preservation of plant Md animal life including habitat for fish and wildlife. > Areas required for ecologic and other aeien- tifie study; rivers, streams, bays and eswar- ies; and, coastal beaches, lake ;bores, banks of rivers and streams, end watersheds. Open space used for the managed production of resources including, but not limited m: > Forest lands, rangeland, agricultural lands and areas of economic importance for the production of food or fiber. > Areas required for racbergs of groundwater basin. > Bays, estuaries, marshes, rivers and streams which are important for the management of wmmaoial fisheries. > Area containing major mineral deposits, in- cluding those in short supply. Open space for outdoor recreation including, bur not limited to: > Areas of outsuaMing scenic, historical, and cultural value. > Areas particularly suited for park and recre- ational purposes, including access to lake ;h0nes, buchu, and rivers and streams. > Area that serve as link; between major rec- reational and opeo-spax reservations, in- cluding utility easements, banks of rivers and ,,,ems, snits, and scetichighway corridor. Open space for public health and safety including, but not limited to: > Areas that require special management or regulation because of herardous or special conditions, such a earthquake fault zones, unstable soil areas. floodplains, watersheds, area preamingbighfire risks, areas requir,4 for the protection of water quality and water ,nervous, and gree required for the protec- tion and mium amern of air quality. > Open -,pax area designed for fuel break and fuel reduction zona, belispou. and fire ac. cess. Open -space Hre safety standards and policies can be implemented by the adoption of open -space zoning regulations. Such regu- lations would help elimmata the owner -by - owner agreements and public agency financingnownexssery for construction and maintenance. > Historicalmumalbazardboundaries. such as inundation areas, landslide paths, debris flows, sites of wildfires, and earthquake faults. Demands for trail -oriented recreational use (Public Resources Code §5076). (Cities and counties must comidersuch demands in developing specific open - space programs.) The retention or all publicly owned corridors for future use (e.g., abandoned rail lines, utility corri- dors, easements, eco.). The feasibility of integrating city and county trail routes with appropriate segments of the California Recreational Trails System (Public Resources Code §5076). (See the California Recreational TtailsAm, commencing with Public Resources Code §5070.) Ideas for Data nod Analysis The following are suggested topics for data collec- tion and analysis for the development of open -spice policies, open space for the pmservmion of natural re- sources Inventory of natural vegetation, fish and wildlife, and their habitats, including rut and endangered species. (MAP) (CO, L) > Inventory plants, natural communities, and special animals using the Deparnnent offish and Game's Natural Diversity Database. The database moven all area ofthe state and pro- duces overlay printouts for use with USGS quadrangle maps. > List the type ofamenab that might befound in a Particular habibt, the time of year they might be found there, and their activities (e. g., breeding) using information from the Wild- life Habitat Relationships Program. Contact the Department of Fish end Creme's Wildlife Management Division for inforuwtion. > Inventory existing and proposed areas for ecologic and other scientific study. > Examine any adopted Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) or Natural Communities Con- servation Plan (NCCP). > Inventory out woodlands. (CO) I. Identify existing oak woodlands where the density oftrees is five or more oaks pa acre and Blue, Engelman, Valley, or Cout Live eek specie dominate. (MAP) 2. Assess the effects of past laud use de- cisions on oak wxdlands and identify General Plan Guidelines 83 Chapter 4: Required Elements of the General Pial-Opm Spate factors causing any decline in oak woodlands. Consultwith the Depulment of Fish and Game and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service regarding spe- cies on the threatened or endangered species lists. Inventory water resources, including rivers, lakes, stream, bays, esnaSm reservoirs, groundwater basins (aquifers), and watersheds. (MAF) (CO) > Map water bodies. > Identify the uses ofwaterwcys and otherbod. its ofwate (e.g., transportation, harbors, and domestic, industrial, agriculture!, and recre- ational use). > Delineate the boundaries of watersheds and aquifer recharge areas and the depth of groundwater basins. ➢ Analyzeseasonal factors in water availability, Assess the quality of various bodies of water, wa- ter courses, and groundwater. (CO) > Generally delineate the boundaries ofand de- scribe unique were resources (e.g., saftsi ter and freshwater marshes, wild riven, etc.). ➢ Map beaches, lakeshores, and river and stream banks. ➢ Review pians prepared by thestate for des- ignated wild and scenic riven. (MAP) Open space for raource management 4 inventory forest resources, (L, CO) > Describe the type, location, amount, and ownership offoreett withvalue for commer- cial timber production, wildlife protection, recreation, watershed protection, aesthetics, and other purposes. (MAP) > Describe the type, location, amount, and two, arship of land and timber resources subject to timberland production zomngs(MAP) 4 Inventory agricultural mources, including rings - land, (CO, L) > Idctrtify, the location. amount and ownership of land in agriculoaal production. (MAP) ➢ Deccnbeagrieulturslpmductionintheplan. ning Was by crop type. Inventory soil resources. (MAP) (CO) > Describe the location, acneage, and extent of different soil types and farmland soils (in- cluding prime farmland) in the planning ares ming the Neutral Resources Conservation Service's Land Capability Clascilication Sys. tem or the Storie Index (see "Useful Defer. 84 General Ran Guidelines tion: Conservation Element" box a ber in this chapter). > Identify areas subject to soil erosion. Inventory gwadwatarecbarge areas, (MAP) (CO) Inventory water bodies that arc important for the management of commudal fisheries. (MAP) (CO) Inventory mineral resources. (L, CO) > Identify the type, location, extent, and qual- ity of oriental resources, including oil and gas, (MAP) > Describe the location and extent of georher- mal resources. (MAP) > Describe the loeatieoofmineralresource ar- eas classified and designated by the State Mining and Geology Board uude the Sur- face Mining and Reclamation Act. (MAP) Open space for outdoor recreation Inventory areas of outstanding scenic beauty. (MAP) (L) Inventory historical and cultural resources, includ- ing archaeological sites and historically and archi- tecturally significant structures, sites, and districts. (Note: Became of the possibility that archaeologi- cal sites may be vandalized, the exact locations of the sites mutt not be publicized.) (MAP) Assess the demand for public and private parks and recreational facilities and inventory areas portion - July suited to parks and recreationalpurposes (L) > Describe the type, location, and size of ex- isting public (federal, sate, regional, and lo- cal) and private parks and recreational facilities (MAP) D Review federal, sate, regional, and local plans and proposals for the acquisition and improvement of public parka. (MAP) > Assesspresent and £stun demands for parks and recreational facilities. > Identify undeserved arca of the oommunity. Inventory points of public scows to lakeshoms, beaches, rivers, and streams. (MAP) (L) Inventory scenic highway corridors. > Identify sats highways included in the Mas- ter Plan of State Highways Eligible for Offi- cial State Designation a Scenic Highways, local highways of scenic significance, and National Scenic Byways and All-American Roads a designated by the U.S. Forest Ser- vice. (MAP) > Assess identified scenic highway corridors Chapter ♦: Requlmd Elements of the General Plan -Open Space and their appropriate boundaries, settle fea- tures, and relationship to surroundings; the incompatible. existing development within the corridor, the proposed realignments or improvements; and the potential for future public and private development within the corridor. Inventory recreational tags and areas and assess the demand far them. (MAP) (L) Inventory arils proposed by and develped under the California Racma6oml'Rails Plan of 197$ Me- psr!mem of Parks and Recreation. Sae Public Re- sources Code ¢5076 and 15070, at seq.)- open space for public health and srdety ♦ Review the general geology and mimic history of the region and the planning area. (S) ♦ Assess the potential for surface rupture- (S) D Perform a geologic evaluation of the potea- tial for displacement along active and po- tenriaily active faults in the planning area. (MAP) D Map the location of earthquake fault zones designated by the State Geologist coda the Alquin Priolo Rmthquake Fsuh Zoning Act (see Chapter 9). (MAP) ♦ Assess the potential far ground shaking. (S) D Identify active sad potentially active faults in the region. (MAP) D Review historical data on seismic ground shaking within the planning area. > Perform a geologic evaluation of the poten- tial for ground shaking based on a maximum credible earthquake. (MAP) ♦ Assess the patemial Por ground failure. (S) > Perform a geologic evaluation of the poten- tial for seismically induced landslides, modalities, liquefaction, and soil compac- tion. (MAP) ♦ Assess slope stability. (CO, S) D Review historical data an landslides and mudslides. > Perform a geologic evaluation of the po- tential for landslides And mudslides. (MAP) ♦ Assess the potential for clifferosion. (S) > Review historical data an cliff erosion. D Perform s geologic evaluation of the poten- tial for cliff erosion. (MAP) • Assess the potentia) for lend subsidence. (S) > Review historical data an )and subsidence re- sulting from extraction of groundwater, get, oil, and geothermal resources and from hydracompaerioo and peat oxidation. D Perform a geologic evaluation of the poten- tial for further subsidence. (MAP) ♦ Identify flood -prone amusing; (1., CO. S) > National Flood anmaricePmgrem maps pub lished by the Federal Emergency MersAge- mentAgency. > InfOmafi= from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. D State Reclamation Board designated flood - way maps (for the Sacramento and Sen Joaquin valleys only). > Dun failure inundation maps prepared pm- suanl to ¢8589.5 (available from the Office of Emergency Services). > Locally prepared maps of flood -prone areas and repetitive flood damage sites. > Historical data on flooding, including infor- mation Iron Conversations with long-time lo - Cal residents. e Idontffy weurshods and key arem for the protec- tion of water quality and reservoirs. (MAP) (CO) • Assess the risk of wildland fires. (S) > Identify areas of varying fixe hazard sever- ity based on fuel loading (vegetation), weather, slope, and historical data. (MAP) > Identify the developments, facilities, and people in and near hazardous areas. > Evaluate the adequacy of access to hazard - one areas (e.g.. types of roads, dead-end 101,42, etc.). ♦ Identify areas necessary for the protection and en- hancement of au quality. (MAP) ♦ Identify areas with naturally occurring shallow gas deposits. Idelis for Development Policies The following are topics that night be severed by open -space element policies: • The protection of fish and wildlife and their habi- tats, including we and endangered species. (CO) a The promotion of and consistency with adopted HCPs and NCCPs. (CO) • The protection of rue and endangered plants. (CO) General Plan Guidelines 85 Chapter 4: Required Elements m the General Pbn—Open Space • Developmetd in or near azisting and proposed ar- eas of ecologic or other scientific study. • The protection and preservation of oak woodlands and mandated replacement planting of native oaks where oak woodlands are proposed for alteration. (CO) • The protection, use, and development of wow bod- ies and coat" courses (e.g., rivers, lakes, streams, bays, harbors, estuaries, suitable, and reservoirs). (CO) • The protection of beaches. lakesboms, end river and stream banks. (00) • The protection ofwater quality. (CO) • The protection of watersheds and aquifer recharge areas. (L, 00) D Type and intensity of developminit. ➢ lhafnage runotTand performance standards. • The protection of designated wild and soenic riv- ers. (CO) • The protection of forestry resources, including specificetions for compatible uses and minimum per=] size. (L, CO) • The use of timberland production zoning. (L, CO) • The protection, use, and development of agrioul- tuml lands (e.g., field crops. Orchards, grazing, eft.). including SPaificatiom for compatible uses and minimum parcel sizes. (L) • The ancomil ment of the use of public advisory committees to develop landscape -level goals. Stan- dards, and measures for protecting plant and wild- life communities and sensitive watersheds. (0) a The prevention of soil erosion. (CO, S) • The preservation of groundwater recharge areas. • The protection ofwnterbodies and watersheds that ire important for the management of commercial fisheries. (CO) • Lend usemintimuhips in veo cormdningmajormmi end deposits, including policies, PLN proposals, and standards developed under the Surface Mining and ReclamationAct (see Chapter 9). (L, CO) • The Protection ofareas ofoutstanding scenicbauty. Q-) • The protoctian of archaeological sites. (L) • The preservation of historically or culturally sig- ni&cant Sim. (L) • The type, location, acquisition, development, and management of public and private parks and tecm- etionalareea.(L) 86 General Plan Guidelines; a A framework for park exactions under the Subdivi- sion Map Aa (§66477(d)). (L) • The protection of and improved access to Iakeshoms, beaches- rivers and stmams. (L) a The Promotion of local scenic, highway corridors. • The protection, improvement, development, and maintainence of recreational trails and related fa- cilities. a The coordination oftrafls with access to waterways required under the Subdivision Map Act Is the imegredon oflocal trails with stare andl Rog' el trail rystans (aa Public Resources Code §5076). a The type, location. andintensity ofdevelopment in areas of seismic hazards. (L, S) • The type, location, and intensity of land uses in an - ass with unstable soils. (L, CO, S) • Non-structural floodplain manigementapproacbes. (L, CO) • The type, location, and intensity ofland uses within flood -prone areas, (L, CO, S) a The type, location, and intensity of development in areas subject to inundation from dam failursa. (L, S) • The type, location, and intensity of land use; in ftre- harard areas. (S) Ideas for Open -Space Action Programs Every local operr-spaee element is mquiied to con- tain a specific action program (§65564). What follows are some ideas for action programs to preserve open space. While the fust item on the list (open -space zon- ing) is a state requirement for counties and general law cities, the other ideas are only suggestions and are meant to stimulate thinking about action programs. More de- tailed suggestions am be found in OPR's publication Pulrfng dch'un into the Open -Space Element. a Open -spare zoning pursuant to §65910 (e.g.. ex- clusive agriculture zones, large -lot zona, overlay. zones for hazards areas, ate.). • Public acquisition of open space (sec Chapter 10). • Private acquisition of open space (e.g., non-profit Ind trusts or rgnservancies). a Preferential assessments (see Chapter 10). a Application of the Quimby Act to subdivision ap- provals (see §66477). a Provisions for open space in specific plans (sea Chapter 10). a Provisions for open space in development agree - Chapter IH THE REQUIRED ELEMENTS OF THE GENERAL PLAN Government Code Section 65302 lists seven elements cities and counties must include in their general plans: land use, circulation, bousing, conservation, open space, noise, and safety. This chapter reviews those requirements, with notes on their origin, purpose, and scope. Key To Abbreviations In Chapter 3 The following symbols are used in this chapter to identify elements which might also address a particular issue. (LU) - Land Use (CI) - Circulation (H) - Housing (CO) - Conservation (OS) - Open Space (N) - Noise (S) - Safety (Map) or (diagram) indicates information that can be shown on a map or diagram. INTRODUCTION Government Code Section 65300 requires every city and county to draw up and adopt "a comprehensive, longterm general plan for the physical development' of the community. At a minimum such a plan must cover specied provisions addressed by each of the seven elements listed in California Government Code Section 65302. The purpose of this chapter is to discuss in detail the contents of each of these seven elements. This chapter examines pertinent California Code sections as well as court and Attorney General interpretations. For each element relevant issues are identied and ideas for data and analysis and for development policies are listed. IDEAS FOR DEVELOPMENT POLICIES The open -space element should contain goals, objectives, policies, principles, plan proposals and standards for the preservation and utilization of a city's or county's open space areas and resources. They should be carefully matched with those of the land use, conservation and safety elements. In addition, the range of uses that will be considered compatible within open space areas should be specified. Here are some ideas for what might be covered by such development policies: The protection of sh and wildlife and their habitats, including rare and endangered species (CO) The protection of rare and endangered plants (CO) Development in or near existing and proposed areas of ecologic or other scientific study • The protection and preservation of oak woodlands and the mandatory replacement planting of native oaks where oak woodlands are proposed for alteration (CO) The protection, use, and development of water bodies and water courses (e.g., rivers, lakes, streams, bays, harbors, estuaries, marshes, and reservoirs) (CO) Land use characteristics in watersheds (LU, CO) The protection of beaches, lakeshores and river and stream banks (CO) The protection of aquifer recharge areas, including specification of minimum parcel sizes (LU, CO) The protection of water quality (CO) The protection of designated wild and scenic rivers (CO) The protection of forestry resources, including specifications for compatible uses and minimum parcel sizes (LU, CO) The protection, use and development of agricultural lands (e.g., eld crops, orchards, grazing, etc.), including specifications for compatible uses and minimum parcel sizes (LU) The use of timberland production zoning (LU, CO) The prevention of soil erosion (CO, S) The preservation of ground water recharge areas CHAPTER III —THE REQUIRED ELEMENTS OF THE GENERAL PLAN Open Space • Inventory of open space lands, including agricultural, forest, grazing, and recreational lands. (diagram) (CO, OS) • Assessment of local open space needs based upon community goals and objectives, the existing open spacelpopulation ratio, and the anticipated population growth. (OS) Delineation of the boundaries of watersheds, aquifer recharge areas, floodplains, and the depth of groundwater basins (diagrams) (CO, S) Delineation of the boundaries and description of unique water resources (e.g., saltwater and freshwater marshes, wild rivers and streams, lakes). (CO) Description of the species, distribution, and population of wildlife and fish, including rare and endangered species. Normally, this will coincide with habitat inventory that includes: location and type of bodies of water; type, location and extent of plants, identified according to the State Department of Fish and Game's classification system; and, identification of key wildlife habitats including winter range and migration routes for deer, wintering and nesting grounds for water fowl and other birds, salmon spawning areas, and habitats of raze or endangered species. (diagram) (CO) Description of species of rare and endangered plants, their distribution, and rate of occurrence. (diagram) (CO) http://ceres.ca.ciov/i)lanninci/genplan/pp chapter3 html WCB, A Brief Overview Agendas and Minutes Background E-mail notice of new Postings of Agendas The Califomia Riparian Habitat Conservation Program (CRHCP) was created within the Wildlife and Minutes on our Conservation Board (MB) by legislation in 1991. The program has a basic mission to develop website coordinated conservation efforts aimed at protecting and restoring the state's riparian ecosystems. • Subscdbe Riparian habitat is Composed of the bees and other vegetation and physical features normally found on • Unsubacdbe the stream banks and flood plains associated with streams, lakes, or other bodies of water. Scientists Programs have long recognized the unique value riparian habitat holds for fish and wildlife species. Unfortunately, Application Packages this valuable habitat has been removed, degraded, and disturbed at an alarming rate since the first settlers Bonds arrived in California. Gams WCB Logo Infonewon In recognition of this major loss of California's riparian habitat and in an effort to reverse this trend to the extent possible, many conservation organizations, state and federal agencies, and local governments are Partner Agencies actively developing programs to protect these valuable ecosystems. The legislation which enabled the Related Linda CRHCP also recognized that the responsibility for protecting and restoring riparian habitat must be shared Report, by all state agencies whose activities impact riparian habitat. The CRHCP is therefore it cooperative effort Project Gallery involving state and federal agencies, local government, nonprofit conservation groups, private landowners, Customer Service Links and concerned citizens. Flexibility is the keyword for the program to ensure that all available approaches and solutions are explored. Program Goals and Objectives fka 141NI `. ms. The goals of the CRHCP as noted in is enablinglegislation, vk ER . �yKau nd enhance riparian habitat throughout California. To achvethew goa s the Program ehas adopted rve. restore the following seven objectives: 1. Assess the current amount and status of riparian habitat throughout the state. 2. Identify those areas which are critical to the maintenance of Califomia's riparian ecosystems. 1 Identify those areas which are in imminent danger of destruction or significant degradation, 4. Prioritize protection needs based on the significance of the site and potential loss or degradation of habitat. 5. Develop and fund project -specific strategies to protect, enhance, or restore significant riparian habitat. 6. Develop, administer, and fund a grans program for riparian habitat conservation. 7. Provide a focal point for statewide riparian habitat conservation efforts. Eligible Applicants for Gront Funding To accomplish the Program's objectives, while maximizing available public funds, the WCB is authorized to award grants for riparian conservation purposes (acquisition and restoration) to nonprofit organizations, local government agencies, state departinens and federal agencies. Examples of Eligible Restoration Projecs • Bank stabilization and mw9etabon to control excessive erosion and establish a functional riparian corridor. ATTACHMENT (.0 From: Toni Casey [mailto: Sent: Tuesday, January 23, 2007 9:37 PM To: Mike O'Malley Cc: Jean Mordo; Breene Kerr; Craig Jones; Dean warshawsky; Debbie Pedro; Cad Cahill Subject: Re: Feb 1 PC meeting Mike, There is a booklet that we did with input from Purissima and Environmental Design (there was no Open Space Committee) which was given in the permit package to any resident who applied for a permit. It listed ways to save water and gave a list of those plants that require less water. Nothing was mandated. It was informational. Sounds like you might he recreating the wheel on that one. I'd suggest that the council have a look at it. Has it disappeared as our Service Questionnaire which had total council support including Elayne Dauber did. We mailed it out to every resident after their permit process was completed. We had one for fast track and one for other permits. We had a council report on how we were doing at each meeting. The returned questionnaires generally gave our staff high marks so I don't know why the procedure was canceled. But on occasion we would get good suggestions on how to improve our service. I still think the card was so little and had so many topics and language that most residents will not understand as I mentioned "a mitigated negative declaration". Took me a minute to recall what it means! So my best bet is that most residents do not have a clue of what is going to take place on February 1 and I still hold that with sufficient information, residents will come. Those are my last comments on the Feb 1 meeting. If you only have a hand full of people show up, my point will be made. If the room is full, then the word got out somehow and it will be a LONG meeting. Civic association is NOT sending out an alertjust to let you know. For the record, I totally oppose Wildlife Corridors as I know all of you know. The deer me simply out of control. They even cross 280 now. And they have learned to eat things they never ate before. I planted "deer resistant" plants. The deer just loved them. Thanks for your response and good luck in your update! tc Toni Casey President, T. Casey & Associates On Jan 22, 2007, at 4:21 PM, Mike O'Malley wrote: Toni, As you are aware, it is a lengthy process going from a committee recommendation to an actual ordinance. The first step is the Planning commission hearing on the general plan that will be held in early February. Then, if the Planning Commission decides to introduce new language into the General Plan, it will go to the Council. Then, if the Council approves the language after public input, the general plan is revised. Then, if the council determines that a new ordinance might be appropriate, it will notify the public of this potential action and a third public hearing will be held. I believe that this is sufficient opportunity for the public to weigh in. If, at the Planning Commission, there is a great deal of public interest, we have the option to continue the hearing to another date. However, if not, we need to go ahead with the Plan revision. Otherwise, we will never complete the project, something for which this Town is well known (there have been at least two other attempts to update the Plan that did not come to fruition.) As far as the items you have listed below, the Parks and Rec issue simply proposes that the Town develop a comprehensive plan for public recreation. It does not state the type of plan or what should be in it, so 1 don't believe that it is particularly controversial. The water conservation language comes from recommendations from Purissima Hills Water District and simply encourages water conservation as a good idea. The major issues are the ones proposed by Nancy Couperous and the Open Space committee which will be discussed at length. Regards, Mike On Jan 22, 2007, at 8:53 AM, Toni Casey wrote: Mike, Thanks very much for your long and detailed email. A few of the General Plan sections were updated while I was on the Council such as the one for secondary housing units as it was also mandated by state law. And of course, you know we updated the Master pathway plan with at least seven public hearings after the many public hearings of the pathway committee. I applaud the total review of the General Plan which I totally agree needs to be done. I am familiar with your general plan committee. I also think as we move forward, it would be preferable for consideration for town input to not refer to us as Civic Association members and Hills 2000 members as I think there are many, many residents that don't know of either organization but also would like to have input into town issues. We found in our Civic Association survey that some residents were against wild life corridors but supported restrictions on "estate homes". Residents opinion vary on the issue. My concern is that the number of topics for discussion for Feb 1 does not give ample consideration to each or enough information on each topic or time for residents to plan an attend. In addition, the small postcard could have easily been missed. In addition, the large majority of residents including me had no idea that you were considering limiting landscaping. From the content of the card, it looks as if amendments are under consideration. If you proceed forward with the PC meeting as scheduled, then I would encourage a much more detailed notice on each subject to be mailed to residents before any amendments are voted on by the council. If you recall, we sent out very detailed notices on every segment of the updated pathway map and had so many residents in attendance that we had to move the meetings to Beth Am. I think the issues you mention on the postcard are as significant and wide resident input is necessary, in my opinion. Thanks again for your quick response. tc Toni Casey President, T. Casey & Associates On Jan 22, 2007, at 7:49 AM, Mike O'Malley wrote Toni, For the past two years the Council has talked about the need to complete a total review of the General Plan, which prior councils have neglected to do for 30 years. The Town has received two letters from the State in the past two years informing us that the General Plan needs to be reviewed in compliance with State Law. In September 2005, the Council appointed an ad hoc committee which consists of representatives from Hills 2000 and the Civic Association and hired an expert to assist us in the task. We have been working on a complete review of the Plan since that time, meeting twice a month. In nearly every Council meeting since then we have discussed the progress and issues in completing this formidable task. We have selected a process by which first the committee reviews the element, updates it and corrects it for errors, puts the element into a format consistent with the other elements and adds anything that the whole committee believes is important. The Committee's primary goal is not to suggest changes but to make the internal documents consistent, correct and legible. We then have the respective Town committees (in this case the Open Space and the Parks and Rec committees) review the element that pertains only to their area. They may suggest changes, additions and/or corrections. Once the element is completed with the suggested changes from the individual committee we go the the Planning Commission, where the documents are reviewed and the proposed changes, like the wildlife corridors and riparian habitats, are reviewed. These proposed changes introduced by the committees must be defended or proven necessary by those committees at that meeting. The General Plan Committee is not the advocate for the committee proposed changes, the Parks & Rec or Open Space committee are. The Planning Commission will review the proposed changes, take in public comment and determine whether or not to include the changes in the revised General Plan. After Planning Commission review, the documents are forwarded the the Town Council which will then discuss the proposed changes and take public comment before deciding on what the final document will include. This is a lengthy process which we have continued to discuss in Council meetings for the past 18 months. In my opinion we need to follow our schedule or we will never get this task done. We have six more elements to complete after these two. Anyone who attends Council meetings is aware of what we are doing and the process. The public has two different forums, the Planning Commission review and the Town Council review, to have their voice heard. Regards, Mike On Jan 20, 2007, at 4:15 PM, Toni Casey wrote: Mayor Warshawsky and Council members I just received a card in the mail saying the PC will consider proposed amendments to our General Plan: Wildlife corridors and habitats on public and private properties Protection of riparian habitat on public and private properties Management of Invasive plan species Conservation of water resources Development of parks facilities and comprehensive Recreation plan All of this on one agenda is impossible to manage and does not give the residents near enough information to know how to respond or time to plan to attend. Each item should be a separate or several separate meetings. For example, what defines an "invasive plant species'. To amend our General Plan should have far more input from the residents. It is my understanding that you are going to do a town wide questionnaire regarding these subjects. Why would the Planning Commission review amendments and a neg dec with no resident input. Most residents have no idea what a negative declaration is. Surely, the last election was a clear indication that our residents do rare about the issues even if they are not part of the town groupies that attend every meeting and apparently dictate the town agenda regardless of what the majority of residents care about. I urge each of you postpone this hearing. tc Toni Casey President, T. Casey & Associates Page 1 of 2 Leslie Hopper From: Karen Jost Sent: Monday, January 22, 2007 4:15 PM To: Debbie Pedro; Carl Cahill; Leslie Hopper Subject: Re General Plan Update Hi Debbie- FYI- Please note Mr. Montgomery's request to include his comments in the Planning Commission packet. Karen 1Caren Jost City Cferk Tonin ofGosACtos x[is 650-941-7222 eV. 226 650-941-3160 (FAA) From: H Dubose Montgomery [mailto: Sent: Monday, January 22, 2007 3:08 PM To: Karen lost Subject: To: Town Council Members, Planning Commission Members, and Ms. Jost, I would like to comment on the Town of Los Altos Hills "Notice of Public Meeting Re: General Plan Update". Please include my comments in the next Town Council and Planning Commission packet. First, the tiny yellow postcard giving the Notice was mixed in with a lot of other marketing mail flyers and was discarded without being looked at, only to be retrieved from our recycle bin after I received an email from a friend. I believe that for something as important as a General Plan Update, that the town should have sent a meaningful announcement in a letter that would have encouraged more people to review it. This could not have been much more in mailing costs. Second, this Notice was received on Saturday, January 20, 2007, approximately one and a half weeks before the public hearing is scheduled to occur on February 1. For most people in our town, this is clearly not enough time to juggle their calendars to get a broad spectrum of attendance at the public hearing even if people read the announcement and knew of its importance. Also, this does not provide nearly enough time to receive and properly review a copy of the documents which I have today requested be sent to me. I believe at least a one month time before the public hearing is generally standard for such things in other towns in our neighborhood. Third, the Notice lists the topics to be discussed using such favorable words as "protection" and "management" and "conservation", but not using "restrictions" or `limitations" or "control". This language biases the reader on what is being proposed. I believe a similar mailing listing the topics as "Restrictions for wildlife corridors and habitats on private properties", "Control for riparian habitat on private properties", "Control of non-native plant species (landscaping)" or `Limitations on water resources" should be done, and would have a different effect on our residents' interest in attending the public hearing and voicing their opinions. And fourth, I understand that the General Plan needs to be updated for every California town and that perhaps a committee has been working hard for months developing their recommendations on the update. However, I believe most people in our town have no idea that this is happening or what it might mean for their property rights if they live on a hillside, new a creek, or are planning on adding landscaping or a fence. A little better publicity to our residents about what an update to the General Plan means for new rules and regulations in town would be greatly appreciated. 1/23/2007 Page 1 of 2 Leslie Hopper From: Debbie Pedro Sent: Tuesday, January 23, 2007 8:10 AM To: 'David Hughes' Cc: Leslie Hopper Subject: RE: Request for General Plan Update documents David, Thank you for your comments. We will include them in the staff report for the Planning Commission and City Council. -Debbie From: David Hughes [mailto: Sent: Monday, January 22, 2007 8:26 PM To: Debbie Pedro Subject: RE: Request for General Plan Update documents Debbie: Thank you for the information. In general I support maintaining the character of the hills, and preserving open spaces. My concerns relate to the changes regarding wildlife corridors on page 6 of the conservation element, particularly policy 3.2 and programs 3.1, 3.2 and 3.3. Specifically: - We should not be unnecessarily encouraging large animals like deers and mountain lions, out of their habitat in the santa cruz mountains, down into populated areas. This is for the animals' good, as well as for residents' safety. - Fences are required to protect young children playing outside in yards and that this is more important than extending the already gigantic Santa cruz mountain area where wildlife roam free today. - The definition of "a wildlife corridor" is too ambiguous. This will be an extremely contentious issue. - People have bought and developed their properties with play areas, landscaping etc with the assumption they are allowed to build a fence on their own land, provided it meets the existing setback/height/openness restrictions. It is unfair to them to change the rules, especially if it only affects a subset of landowners that happen to be in a new "designated" corridor. If my schedule permits, I will try to attend the meeting. David From: Debbie Pedro [mailto:dpedro@losaltoshills,m.gov] Sent: Monday, January 22, 2007 1:17 PM To: Subject: RE: Request for General Plan Update documents Dear Mr. Hughes: As you requested, attached are copies of the draft documents for your review. New policies and programs have been highlighted in yellow in the text. 1. Introduction 2. Conservation Element 1/23/2007 Page 2 of 2 3. Open Space and Recreation Element 4. Appendix A—Historic Resources The Planning Commission will be reviewing the proposed update on 2/1 and will make a recommendation to the City Council. If you have any comments regarding the proposed amendments, please email your comments to me. Your comments will be forwarded to the Planning Commission and City Council. Thank you. Debbie Pedro, AICP Planning Director Town of Los Altos Hills Phone: (650) 947-2517 Fax: (650) 941-3160 From: David Hughes [mailto: Sent: Sat 1/20/2007 11:26 AM To: Leslie Hopper Subject: Request for General Plan Update documents Leslie Please forward me a copy of the update documents (email preferred) Thanks, David Hughes Los Altos Hills 1/23/2007 Page 1 of 1 Leslie Hopper From: Val Metcalfe [ Sent: Thursday, January 25, 2007 11:35 AM To: - Cc: Leslie Hopper; Mike O'Malley Subject: FW: General Plan From: Sent: Wednesday, January 24, 2007 10:02 AM To: Cc: Subject: General Plan Hi Mike -- Don't shoot me but under Westwind Barn facility used for: Sumner Riding Camp should be Parks and Recreation Dept. Riding and horse management programs. In the document, Parks and Rec features rather weak in its use of Westwind. The G.P. needs to reflect the vital part W W plays in all our riding and horse programs. I'm sure it's an oversight...:) Rebecca Check out the new AOL. Most comprehensive set of free safety and security tools, free access to millions of high-quality videos from across the web, free AOL Mail and more. 1/25/2007 Memo To: Debbie Pedro, LAH Planning Director Fmm: Dorothy Duffy Price, President Los Attos Hills County Fire District (LAHCFD) cc: Leslie Hopper, Planning Consultant Date: 2/1/2007 Ra•. Draft LAH General Plan —Comments from Stu Farwell, LAHCFD Consultant LAH Draft General Plan Feedback - from Stu Farwell (Consultant to Fire District) General Feedback Foothill College Correction Suggested: No mention of existence of Foothill College. Population, employment, commercial enterprises—bookstore, cafeteria Conservation Easement: All O.K. Good to mention high fire risks. Wildlife: Correction Suggested: Section 312 fails to mention Mountain Lion Environmental All 0. K. - Good to mention replacement of high fire plants, elimination of Eucs; dead vegetation, use of exotics Open Space All O.K. - Good to mention steep slopes, instability and high fire hazards Appendix A Correction Suggested: Griffin House— note: Eliminate reference to Foothill Fire Department. Fire District (LAHCFD) no longer occupies; police may still be there. Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment. Submitted by: Duffy Price President, IAHCFD Page 1 of Leslie Hopper From: John Zeisler[ Sent: Wednesday, January 31, 2007 10:23 AM To: Leslie Hopper Subject: RE: general plan update A couple of thoughts - One area the town could do more is to strongly encourage is the use of bicycles for local transportation and recreation in the community and to adjacent communities. While the plan supports bicycles, it could encourage additional use. Pathways designated as bicycle routes (the Moody Road corridor is a good step in this direction), but another simple example for further consideration is bicycle parking racks at town hall or at the Little League fields. Another consideration is the expansion of existing recreation resources. The Little League fields are empty at least 6 months a year, and the town is sorely lacking in soccer fields or other sports fields for our youth. Paved sports courts (basketball, etc.) could augment existing sports and recreation facilities and broaden the year round desirability and accessibility. Lastly, the implementation of the Eucalyptus ordinance has left many areas looking like a disaster (e.g. Taaffe Road) and reduced our tree canopy and coverage. This should be revisited to avoid the wholesale clearing that seems to be in vogue. If one were to inventory the trees that might be removed because of this policy, we'd find many popular roadways in town ripe for visual destruction. Happy to provide further input if needed Regards, John Zeisler Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 From: Leslie Hopper [mailto:lhopper@losaltoshills.ca.gov] Sent: Monday, January 29, 2007 1:02 PM To: John Zeisler Subject: RE: general plan update Dear Mr. Zeisler: As you requested, attached are copies of the draft documents for your review. New policies and programs have been highlighted in yellow in the text. 1. Introduction 2. Conservation Element 3. Open Space and Recreation Element 4. Appendix A—Historic Resources The Planning Commission will be reviewing the proposed update on 2/1 and will make a recommendation to the City Council. If you have any comments regarding the proposed amendments, please email your comments to me. Your comments will be forwarded to the Planning Commission and City Council. Thank you. 1/31/2007 Page I of 2 Leslie Hopper From: Duffy Price [ Sent: Saturday, January 27, 2007 6:33 PM To: Leslie Hopper Cc: Elayne Dauber; Dot Schreiner Subject: Re: General Plan Attachments: Minutes Initial Meeting 1-23-07.doc Hi Leslie, We had our little meeting with Elayne Dauber and Barbara Packard to discuss the Historical Sites and Structures. In order to provide you with the context of our meeting, please see the attached meeting minutes. Barbara Packard raised the issue about "what the criteria" should be for inclusion on the list. We hope to be able to answer that question after we investigate the issue with Bill Carino and others. (Poor Bill has no idea how he got involved in this situation, so I'll have to speak with him about it.) Summary: In going over the Appendix A we found a few corrections: A. Corrections to the document were identified: • Paragraph 1 — Correct the reference from Program 9.1 to 10.1 • Indian Meditation or Lookout Point - change La Cresta Avenue to La Cresta Drive B. Additional points and Items to be followed up: • Change Perry Morgan to Percy Morgan • All locations need to be identified in the Appendix with the correct street address • Contact current resident of historical addresses to gain their approval to be placed on the list If you have any thoughts on the above issues, please let us know. We are going to try to get an Historical Committee and a new Historian appointed soon. Appreciate your assistance. Kindest thanks, Duffy ----- Original Message ----- From: Leslie HOnner To: Duffy Price Sent: Thursday, January 18, 2007 6:50 PM Subject: RE: General Plan Duffy, 1/29/2007 5 O o C a b w -G A C] C x o � q x a � sn [q m � N M /A� 'v�a+w�CS uCatU QQU ro a Wa C] q o e0 o o d b U =� e o d _ ❑❑ m 0� Sb s v U U Q 7 0.1 U ¢ k Y a�o25 A a T a MI a v o ro a ° T Vo C _ V 3 Y or N i+�ro d C C�' C � ❑ ±s [ vs[L� vw 5 v `8 piap ro 'S pp 3 y 0•.5 O ro s �d 3 F y C T m x y° z W x ° .5 G1 . • . 0.1 MI a B ) a } } 4 §\\\) kk\ta) kk()k)% : \ka7Q]/ } k } ) ) 2 ! % \ ƒ 2 Summary of Proposed New Policies and Programs POLICIES AND PROGRAMS THAT ARE ALREADY BEING IMPLEMENTED PER CITY COUNCIL'S DIRECTION WATER RESOURCES—Conservation Element Program 5.3 Work with Purissima Hills Water District to inform homeowners of their potential water usage in new landscape projects and to recognize the benefits of water efficient landscapes without undue burden to the homeowners. Program 5.4 Consider incentives for property owners meeting certain water conservation criteria. As per City Council Resolution 122-06 on 12114/06. ENERGY CONSERVATION—Conservation Element Policy 8.1 Promote the incorporation of energy conservation measures in new construction. Policy 8.2 Encourage active and passive solar energy design in building and site development. Policy 8.3 Expand the use of alternative fuels for Town vehicles by purchasing hybrids and other fuel-efficient vehicles. Program 8.1 Continue to use Title 24 of the Uniform Building Code to require proper energy conservation for all approved projects. Program 8.2 Incorporate energy efficiency measures in new Town facilities. Program 8.3 Continue to waive permit fees for the installation of solar energy systems. Program 8.4 Continue to offer a bonus in development area for homeowners who install solar energy systems. Program 8.5 Consider preparing and adopting additional incentives and/or an energy conservation ordinance. Recommended by the Environmental Initiatives Committee. Consistent with Ord. 446 approved by City Council 5/11/06; Ord. 500 approved by City Council 7113/06; and Resolution 1-06 on 1/11/07 Summary of New Policies & Programs February 1, 2007 Page I WASTE REDUCTION AND RECYCLING—Conservation Element Policy 9.1 Promote source reduction and recycling throughout the community. Program 9.1 Continue to implement the Town's 1994 Source Reduction and Recycling Element. Program 9.2 In Town purchasing, encourage the purchase of products that minimize packaging, contain recycled materials, and can be reused or recycled. Program 9.3 Consider supporting new ideas and innovative proposals that will promote recycling and other environmentally sound practices. Program 9.4 Continue to work with Los Altos Garbage Company to implement single -stream recycling and other ways to encourage waste reduction and recycling. Recommended by the Environmental Initiatives Committee. Programs are consistent with the Town's current practice. RECREATION AREAS AND FACILITIES --Open Space & Recreation Element Policy 2.8 The acquisition and development of new parks and recreation areas shall be pursued when necessary to meet the recreational needs and interests of Town residents. Program 2.4 Study and establish mechanisms for funding and maintaining new park acquisitions. Program 2.5 Consider acquisition of parkland under any of the following conditions: • Where community need or use demands. • Where the acquisition can provide greenbelt connections between open spaces. • When acquisition opportunities arise. Program 3.1 Develop a comprehensive Recreation Plan for existing and future recreation facilities and programs. Recommended by the Parks and Recreation Committee. Policy 2.8 and Programs 2.4 & 2.5 are consistent with City Council's Town Goals. Program 3.1 is currently being implemented as the Strategic Action Plan 2004. Summary of New Policies & Programs February 1, 2007 Page 2 POLICIES AND PROGRAMS INTRODUCED BY TOWN COMMITTEES CREEKS AND RIPARIAN CORRIDORS—Conservation Element Program 1.4 Develop a comprehensive riparian policy that compiles and clarifies all relevant requirements for affected property owners. Program 1.5 Develop a program to manage and control invasive species within critical riparian corridors (e.g., Matadero Creek). Recommended by the Open Space Committee. TREES AND PLANTS—Conservation Element Policy 2.5 Encourage the removal and prevention of the spreading of aggressive exotics such as pampas grass, acacia, yellow star thistle, French broom, Scotch broom and eucalyptus. Recommended by the Open Space Committee and the Environmental Design and Protection Committee. WILDLIFE SPECIES AND HABITAT—Conservation Element 315. Wildlife move through the planning area along natural passageways, particularly in riparian areas that provide sources of food, water and shelter. Most wildlife corridors are located in areas designated as Open Space Conservation Areas. However, increased fencing by property owners is blocking the movement of wildlife and forcing them into detrimental movement patterns. Wildlife corridors should be identified and fencing should not be allowed to restrict the movement of wildlife through these corridors. Policy 3.1 Ensure that in the design and construction of public and private developments, wildlife habitat will be protected to the maximum extent feasible, with special emphasis on protecting the habitat of any endangered species. Policy 3.2 Review all subdivision and site development proposals to ensure that they do not obstruct wildlife access to important water, food, migration and breeding areas. Program 3.1 Consider requiring a biology report, prepared by a qualified biologist, to determine if wildlife habitat (particularly of endangered species) will be encroached upon by any proposed public or private project on parcels over 8 acres in size where such encroachment appears likely. Summary of New Policies & Programs February 1, 2007 Page 3 Program 3.2 Continue to enforce the fence ordinance, which requires that fencing be located and constructed to allow the movement of wildlife through conservation/open space easements and wildlife corridors. Program 3.3 Identify and map important wildlife corridors for use in land use planning and permitting and the protection of wildlife habitat. Recommended by the Open Space Committee. Summary of New Policies & Programs February 1, 2007 Page 4 ,�; Town of Los Altos Hills GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2007 WHAT IS A GENERAL PLAN? • The General Plan is a blueprint for the Town's future. • It consists primarily of goals, policies and programs adopted by the City Council to guide future development of the Town. • The General Plan provides the policy framework for decision-making related to the provision of public services and facilities and the management of community resources. WHY DO WE HAVE A GENERAL PLAN? • State law requires all cities to have a General Plan. It provides a legal basis for zoning, site development and subdivision regulations and ensures that development is consistent with the Town's long-term goals. WHAT DOES THE LAW REQUIRE? • The State requires that the General Plan contain seven elements: Land Use, Housing, Circulation, Open Space, Conservation, Noise, and Safety. • Optional elements may be included (such as the Recreation Element). • The General Plan must be internally consistent. There cannot be policy conflicts between any parts of the plan, either in text or maps. WHY ARE WE UPDATING THE GENERAL PLAN? • Five of the seven mandatory elements of the existing plan were adopted in 1975. • The State has notified the Town that its General Plan needs to be updated. State Law & Guidelines for General Plans Planning and Zoning Law within the California Government Code section 65000 et seq. General Plan Guidelines issued by the Governor's Office of Planning & Research