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HomeMy WebLinkAboutV(d)_Additional Materials Received_Black_Consideration of Optional Elements1 Rodriguez, Clarivel Subject:FW: Sustainability and Resilience Element Wireframe Proposal for Agenda 2/1 Attachments:Sustainability and Resiliance Element_1.26.docx   From: Black, Curtis <CBlack@newportbeachca.gov>   Sent: January 26, 2023 7:00 PM  To: Zdeba, Benjamin <bzdeba@newportbeachca.gov>  Subject: Sustainability and Resilience Element Wireframe Proposal for Agenda 2/1    Hi Ben,     Per our conversation in our first GPAC meeting, I wanted to propose an additional element focused on  Sustainability and Resilience. This framework is based on the work of other leading cities with a vision for  sustainability and who are planning proactively for sea level rise resilience. Cities with similar exposure profiles  have found benefits from siloing these themes in similar general plans given the potential economic impact,  and given the amount of state and federal funding expected over the next decades for the cities with a vision  and plan.    This proposal is not intended to be adopted as an element in exact current state (I realize it's rather detail  heavy), but rather to propose a wireframe showing what might be contained in this element. Later discussions  could frame exactly which goals live with Sustainability and Resiliance, and which do not. I do propose that the  goals of Environmental Resilience, Education, Waste Reduction, Energy, Water, Water Conservation and  Water Quality would make the most sense to be siloed together in this element.     It's also worth stating that there would clearly be overlap among other elements' work, but I believe the  benefits of siloing such an important topic as a unique element outweigh the cons (and will ultimately lead to  more grant dollars flowing to Newport).     Thanks,  Curt       General Plan Update Steering Committee and General Plan Advisory Committee Joint Meeting - February 1, 2023 Item No. V(d) - Additional Materials Received Consideration of Optional Elements INTRODUCTION THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING SUSTAINABLILTY AND RESILIANCE Whether it is the scarcity of water, the impact of sea level rise, the fragility of the power grid or the limited capacity of our roads and landfills, our systems are challenged. As data suggests these issues will grow in scale, Newport has an economic responsibility to step up as a leader in sustainability and resilience over the next 20 years. Some changes require little more than education and encouragement. Others require investment and long-term planning, but by committing to these actions, the City Council will insure the high quality of life we enjoy in Newport Beach, protect City finances by reducing the need for major capital expenditures, and carry on the vision of the early leaders who dredged the harbor, built the jetties to provide a safe harbor entrance, and bought land outside the city to insure alternative water sources. Just as it leads in other fields, Newport Beach can become a leader in sustainability. A PLAN FOR NEWPORT BEACH Newport Beach has long been a leader in water quality and has made major strides in water and energy conservation, but we lack an overall plan to make the city more sustainable, and resilient against known threats to our land, real estate, and harbor. This means gaps and a lack of coordination among programs and departments. A sustainability and resilience plan will provide a unified vision and roadmap for the city, its residents and businesses, so that we continue to be the "shining city on the bay." THE FIRST STEP The critical first step is for the Council to establish the importance of sustainability and resilience in the city. With sustainability and resilience declared goal, all departments and all staff members will embrace the effort, and residents will know their elected representatives are taking the lead in this important step. ORGANIZATION OF THE PLAN This plan has nine sections: Environmental Resilience, Education, Building/Development, Waste Reduction, Transportation, Energy, Water Conservation/Quality, Urban Outdoors. There are suggested goals for each area as well as suggested programs and procedures to help achieve those goals. Where the city already has relevant plans, these are incorporated by reference or brought forward for new attention. Pertinent General Plan policies are cited. Current City activities are listed in Attachment A. ACCOUNTABILITY It is important that accountability be built into the plan. This can be done by: o Regular interdepartmental meetings to review progress and promote integration, efficiency and synergy, as is currently being done to address the drought. o Assignment of relevant programs to existing bodies such as the Harbor Commission; Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission; Environmental Quality Affairs Committee; and the Water Quality/Coastal Tidelands Committee. o Annual reports so that everyone knows how we are proceeding toward our goals. General Plan Update Steering Committee and General Plan Advisory Committee Joint Meeting - February 1, 2023 Item No. V(d) - Additional Materials Received Consideration of Optional Elements Environmental Resilience GOAL: Understand Newport Beach’s vulnerability, plan proportionally for the potential risks, and prioritize solutions to protect our quality of life, infrastructure, harbor, beaches, and property. Newport’s economic benefit from the harbor and beaches, combined with drastically Increasing state and federal funding for sea level rise resilience make prioritizing resilience a smart economic decision that will protect our City on the Bay’s lifestyle. ESTABLISH CHARTER, MISSION, VISION FOR SUSTAINABILITY AND RESILIANCE: Similarly impacted Cities grounded work within a defined scope and mission. This helps guide city departments, commissions, and working groups towards a common goal and promotes work at an independent pace. o IMPROVE OWNERSHIP OF KEY SUSTAINABILITY AND REILIANCE TOPICS: Key topics like scarcity of water, sea level rise, the fragility of the power grid or the limited capacity of our roads and landfills currently fall between City departments and committees. To prepare for the next 15 years, the City should reevaluate ownership of these key topics and consider siloing these topics into unique commissions. This would allow specialized focus on Sustainability and Resilience, allowing groups like Harbor Commission, Parks, Beaches and Recreation, and Water Quality Coastal Tidelands to continue focusing on their core missions. City staff should proportionally reflect this commitment and vision. There is a spectrum of commitment that should be evaluated: most Cities have specified commissions focused on resilience, often there is a Chief Resilience Officer, some Cities have specific City departments fully staffed. Given the increase in state and federal funds for resilience and flood prevention, these departments are often able to operate significantly revenue positive when comparing grant dollars to resources spent. UNDERSTAND NEWPORT BEACH’S VULNERABILITY AND IMPACT: Establish a regular, City sanctioned vulnerability assessment in partnership with 3P experts (University, NGO partners, consultants). Understand Newport Beach’s vulnerability points with best in class reporting, GIS, technology, and impact assessment so that the City can make high quality decisions when developing strategy. o SEA LEVEL RISE AND FLOODING VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT: Regular assessment of impact shared across the City at the right, repeatable, cadence. This can help inform infrastructure decisions and help advocate for additional City funding from state and federal departments. o BEACH AND SAND EROSION MONITORING AND MITIGATION: While we know through photo and qualitative evidence that Newport’s Beaches are eroding in some locations, a dedicated effort to quantify exactly how much erosion we are seeing, where we are seeing highest impact, and how we predict future modeled erosion, would help the City make better long term decisions and advocate for local solutions. General Plan Update Steering Committee and General Plan Advisory Committee Joint Meeting - February 1, 2023 Item No. V(d) - Additional Materials Received Consideration of Optional Elements o ANNUAL REPORTING: on progress, and other aspects that the City is working across. PARTNER WITH LOCAL AND NATIONAL GROUPS: the inclusion of a Consortium of Universities, and dialogue with regional partners, adds merit to the process, serving as trusted agents, facilitating work in a non-partisan environment, and providing industry leading research to inform the process. o PARTNER WITH CREDIBLE UNIVERSITIES AND NGOs: Develop official partnerships with NGOs and a Consortium of Universities. Partners can assist with vulnerability assessments, pro bono consulting, and adaption research to validate the data, bring best in class solutions to measurement, evaluation and implementation. o PARTNER WITH LOCAL CITIES TO ADVOCATE FOR REGIONAL SOLUTIONS: Many of the case studies in cost effective leadership across Sustainability and Resilience have stemmed from regional partnerships. Develop a dialogue with other similar impacted local cities: Laguna Beach, Huntington Beach, Long Beach, Dana Point, and Orange County to understand what is working, where cities can collectively mobilize, and what regional resources we can tap into or advocate for. o BECOME A LOCAL AND NATIONAL LEADER IN RESILIANCE: Join programs that offer city- to-city thought leadership on cost effective ways to lead on resilience: e.g. Rockefeller Foundation’s 100 Resilient Cities, Resilient Cities Network, Urban Land Institute Local Chapter DEVELOP A PROPORTIONAL SEA LEVEL RISE STRATEGY: Leading Cities have accompanied a General Plan with a 15+ year Sea Level Rise Strategy, taking departments with clear ownership and setting benchmarks or triggers where certain projects kick off. While Sea Level Rise is mentioned in Newport’s Municipal Code, a comprehensive strategy has not yet been proposed. This is likely a multiyear process, starting with vulnerability assessments. o EXAMINE LEADING SEA LEVEL RISE STRATEGIES: from Cities like Huntington Beach, Charleston, Miami, San Mateo, Virginia Beach, others. o START WITH VULNEARABILITY ASSESSMENT DATA: based on impact analysis, identify the most impacted areas. Use this data to prioritize projects, or ideas. o ADAPTION RESEARCH: Identify where education, or very cost-effective changes can make an impact. Prioritize action based on tradeoff of cost / impact. o STRATEGY DEVELOPMENT: Where adaption isn’t sufficient, what strategies does Newport propose. Develop triggers for a phased approach and plan, ensure proportional planning and limiting of unnecessary costs. o IMPLEMENTATION AND EVALUATION: including maximizing state and FEMA funding to limit local tax impact. DEDICATE RESOURCES TO FUNDRAISING: Ensure that Newport Beach is receiving a fair share of dedicated resources for Sea Level Rise, Flood Mitigation Assistance, and similar programs from federal and state sponsors. o PRIORITIZE STATE AND NATIONAL FUNDING PARTNERSHIPS: State and national funding has already increased dramatically. Ensure the City is properly staffed to General Plan Update Steering Committee and General Plan Advisory Committee Joint Meeting - February 1, 2023 Item No. V(d) - Additional Materials Received Consideration of Optional Elements maximize the useful grant dollars coming to Newport from state programs, and from FEMA. Newport will continue to qualify for robust federal dollars in flood prevention packages if we build a process around seeking these programs. o EVALUATE CITY RESOURCES TIED TO RESILIANCE: The appointment of a Resilience department, a Chief Resilience Officer, or specific headcount tied to Resilience strategy could be a profitable decision. Continually evaluate profitability of City headcount based on FEMA and state grant availability. EDUCATION GOAL: Enhance the availability of information on sustainability and engage the community in sustainability efforts. There is a big educational component in sustainability, with new information emerging all the time. The more residents and businesses know about sustainability, the easier it is for them to take the right steps. BUILD THE CITY'S COMMUNICATION CAPACITY: The City is the natural information portal for residents and businesses through its permit process and because of the diversity of skills and knowledge represented in its workforce. o IMPROVE WEB SITE ACCESSIBILITY: Newport Green on the City's website has a lot of information and links but needs redesign to make it more accessible. Put the Newport Green logo on the home page. Identify and fill gaps in information. Continually refresh, augment and present the information to show the City's commitment to sustainability and to connecting with residents. Continue to update the Green Building Guidelines and publicize all rebate programs and financial incentives. o MAKE THE BUILDING/PLANNING DESK AN INFORMATION SOURCE: Highlight Newport Green on materials and signs and provide shelf space for pertinent brochures. Include relevant information on sustainability when giving out permits and other City forms. o CONTINUE OUTREACH PROGRAMS: Waterwise and other presentations by knowledgeable City staff have been well received and should be continued and expanded. o PROVIDE UPDATES: List energy and financial savings accomplished through City efforts. o UTILIZE THE NEW MEDIA: Tap into the new ways people get information by inviting students at local schools to create programming, apps--and new audiences. SEEK OUT PARTNERS: Whether it is a grant application, a restoration program or a how-to seminar, working with others can amplify City education efforts. o WORK WITH UTILITIES: Our local utilities have a number of programs, and the City should continue to partner with them and expand the partnerships where possible. o WORK WITH EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS: UCI can be a valuable resource for City efforts, especially in data collection, and local elementary and high schools provide opportunities to educate and motivate future generations. General Plan Update Steering Committee and General Plan Advisory Committee Joint Meeting - February 1, 2023 Item No. V(d) - Additional Materials Received Consideration of Optional Elements o COORDINATE WITH NONPROFITS: Partnering with local environmental nonprofits can enhance grant opportunities, and such organizations can be a resource for volunteers. Also, these organizations can be utilized in City efforts to inform and engage the public. o EXPLORE PRIVATE SECTOR ADVANCES AND PARTNERSHIPS: Many private companies are on the cutting edge of sustainability programs and processes, and the City should look for opportunities to benefit from their knowledge. REWARD ACHIEVEMENT: Recognition motivates and educates. • SALUTE AWARDS AND PRIZES: Support the efforts of businesses like Roger's Gardens and others who recognize achievement in sustainability by inviting winners for further recognition by the Council. 2. BUILDING/DEVELOPMENT GOAL-- increase the use of green building techniques in new development and remodels throughout the city. Whether it is an alteration to a home or a brand new development, incorporating new techniques makes for more efficient buildings and should be encouraged at every level. MAKE IT EASY TO BUILD GREEN: The market is moving more and more toward energy-efficient, green housing, and the City should do as much as it can to facilitate this market. • REVIEW FEES: In reviewing fees, consider not just city costs but what activities the City wants to encourage when setting the fees for items like solar permits or alternative fuel pumps. • REVIEW CODES AND PROVIDE MORE FLEXIBILITY: If codes lag or mandate only one path, those who want to build green may have to seek variances, a process which takes staff time as well as causing delays for applicants. As an example, expanses of asphalt parking lots create heat islands, and the required 90% compaction creates sterile soil. A simple solution: provide the option of permeable paving and compaction of less than 90% where appropriate. • CREATE A FAST TRACK FOR GREEN BUILDING: Creating two permitting paths encourages--but doesn't mandate--green building. Create a checklist of desired green features. If applicants can check off all the features, they get expedited permitting. (NR 24.1 Incentives for Energy Conservation) • ENCOURAGE STAFF MEMBERS TO BECOME LEED ACCREDITED OR THE EQUIVALENT: The more expertise on staff, the more assistance can be provided not just to applicants but to other staff members. • EXPAND STAFF TRAINING AND AWARENESS: Provide sustainability education for all City departments and all levels within departments to increase better city coverage on these issues. • INCORPORATE SUSTAINABILITY GOALS: Have departments set sustainability goals for their departments and have regular reports on performance. TAKE A LEADERSHIP ROLE: Show the City is committed to sustainability with public buildings that can provide a healthier environment for workers. General Plan Update Steering Committee and General Plan Advisory Committee Joint Meeting - February 1, 2023 Item No. V(d) - Additional Materials Received Consideration of Optional Elements o LEED BUILDINGS: Continue the policy that all City buildings must be LEED qualified or the equivalent where financially feasible. o RETROFIT: Regular maintenance and repair of City buildings should incorporate sustainability practices, and there should be cost-benefit analyses of retrofitting older buildings to make them more energy efficient. o ENCOURAGE SUSTAINABLE NEIGHBORHOODS: When reviewing development proposals, consider the surrounding neighborhood/area and encourage development that looks beyond the individual parcel and appropriately improves the public realm which may include pedestrian and bicycle access, landscaping, and other improvements that promote the area’s sustainability. (LU 5.6.1 Compatible Development, LU 5.6.4 Conformance with the Natural Environmental Setting LU 6.1.2 Siting of New Development, CE 5.1.3 Pedestrian Improvements in New Development Projects, CE 5.1.4 Linkages to Citywide Trail System and Neighborhoods) o JOBS/HOUSING BALANCE: To the degree possible, work towards a jobs/housing balance that reduces the need for long-distance commuting. o HEALTHY TREES: Whether in parking lots or parkways, trees provide an aesthetic benefit as well as shade and habitat. Focus on trees that provide large canopies but also avoid root problems and are not heavy water users. To insure healthier trees, mandate BMPs for tree wells including deeper holes and better soil arrangements. o LOOK TO THE FUTURE: Changing major systems once a house/building is completed can be disruptive, difficult and expensive, so it is more practical to provide for future choices. o FORWARD FIT: Where financially feasible, promote best practices by encouraging all new development to provide solar-ready rooftops, gas pipe outlets for major appliances, and outlets for plug-in vehicles, so that if users choose, they can make energy upgrades easily. 3. WASTE REDUCTION GOAL--move toward a zero-waste model. Trash is expensive. The more we can reduce the amount of waste we produce, the better it is for our budget and also for the environment since landfills are a major source of methane. In looking at programs and policies, the City should always consider the Zero Waste mantra: Reuse, Recycle, Reduce. Objective: redirect 100% of the waste stream from within the city to the best and most appropriate use. IDENTIFY ALL WASTE STREAMS: To have a comprehensive program, we must know the amount each segment produces. o DATA ANALYSIS: Analyze the amount produced through construction/demolition; households (mixed and recyclables); businesses (malls, small and large shopping centers, restaurants, apartment buildings) to determine the best BMP to reduce/reuse/recycle. REDUCE CONSTRUCTION WASTE: Building material makes up 22% of landfill material statewide. General Plan Update Steering Committee and General Plan Advisory Committee Joint Meeting - February 1, 2023 Item No. V(d) - Additional Materials Received Consideration of Optional Elements o SUPPORT DECONSTRUCTION OVER DEMOLITION: Deconstruction provides for the reuse of many elements. Consider incentives such as fast-tracking for those who not only deconstruct but use the material on site. PROVIDE FOR HAZARDOUS WASTE DISPOSAL: Because the hours and location of the sites for hazardous waste disposal are not always convenient, hazardous materials tend to accumulate in garages which is hazardous in itself. o HAZARDOUS WASTE PICK UP: Work with the City's residential trash hauler to better communicate the methods available for haz/mat pickups. o DISCOURAGE SINGLE-USE MATERIALS: Plastic bottles and single use bags are a major component of trash on beaches, in the harbor and in landfills. o WATER REFILL STATIONS: Work with private sector/non-profit groups to replace existing drinking fountains with water refill stations throughout the city. o MULTI-USE BAGS: Encourage residents and businesses to use/provide multi-use bags. REDUCE OFFICE WASTE: Sustainable procurement and use practices save money and encourage green businesses. o PAPER USE: Set a City reduction goal. o GO ELECTRONIC: Within legal and practical boundaries, use electronic means for notices, etc., instead of paper whenever possible. o GOOD PACKAGING PRACTICES: To the degree possible, make packaging a consideration when purchasing supplies. REDUCE ORGANIC WASTE: Divert waste that can be reused from landfills. o COMPOST: Look for opportunities to expand the City's compost program. o STUDY A GREEN WASTE PROGRAM: Determine which gets a higher diversion of green waste--implementing a green waste program for residents or increasing the diversion requirements with city haulers, and implement the better choice, taking into consideration any additional cost. o SEPARATION OF MATERIALS: Work with the residential trash hauler(s) to continue educating residents on the benefits of separating and recycling. Be sure that separated trash is handled appropriately. Post the information on the city's website. o CONSIDER BIO-COMPOSTING SYSTEMS: Such systems take organic waste including food and compost it to produce a biogas that can be used as CNG fuel or to produce electricity. Sites can be as small as 3,000 sq. ft. Form a task force to explore the feasibility of such a system for the city. o FOOD WASTE PROGRAMS: Encourage local restaurants to participate in food waste programs from groups like Surfrider Foundation. PROTECT THE HARBOR AND BEACHES: Beaches, parks and other sites are often overwhelmed by the amount of trash produced by their visitors. o ADD CANS AND ROUTES: Working with trash haulers, identify areas that need more trash cans and/or pickups to eliminate escaped trash. 4. TRANSPORTATION General Plan Update Steering Committee and General Plan Advisory Committee Joint Meeting - February 1, 2023 Item No. V(d) - Additional Materials Received Consideration of Optional Elements GOAL-- a transportation system with efficient traffic flow, convenient alternatives to the automobile and which is friendly to pedestrians and bicycles. Probably the most common complaint from residents is about traffic. Whether it is a daily commute along Coast Highway or trying to take the family to the beach in the summer, congested roads mean longer trips, increased emissions, more frustration for drivers and demand for new lanes/streets. By promoting alternative means of transportation, the city can reduce the number of cars on the road, the amount of emissions produced, capital expenses, and improve the quality of life for its residents. ENCOURAGE ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORTATION MODES: The use of alternative transportation can relieve congestion on the roads and take pressure off the busiest parking lots. (CE1.1.1 Comprehensive Transportation System, CE 6.2.1 Alternative Transportation Modes) o BICYCLE MASTER PLAN: The adopted Bicycle Master Plan lays out comprehensive steps for improving city streets and roads for bicycles and pedestrians. It is critical that the plan's recommendations be enacted. o BIKE SHARING: This provides an easy way to encourage the use of bikes, particularly by visitors and beachgoers, so it would serve the city well to bring in a bike-share program from a private vendor. o BIKE VALET: Many residents and visitors would bicycle to events within the city if they were sure of a place to leave their bikes. As part of the Special Event permit, encourage bike valet programs at events held in the city. o INCREASE WALKABILITY: Identify areas with incomplete sidewalk connections and improve connectivity. (CE 5.1.2 Pedestrian Connectivity NR 6.1 Walkable Neighborhoods) o PREFERRED PARKING: Provide preferred parking in city lots for car pools, alternatively- fueled autos, golf carts. o MAKE BUS TRAVEL MORE ATTRACTIVE: Work with OCTA to improve the comfort and utility of bus stops. Work with local businesses to provide more links from the Newport Center hub to places of employment. (CE 1.2.4 Public Transit, CE 4.1.1 Public Transit Efficiency, CE 4.1.6 Transit Support Facilities) o EXPAND EXISTING SYSTEMS: Work with existing businesses and institutions that already provide transportation such as UCI and the "bar" cars on the Peninsula to develop additional routes and hours. o GOLF CART ROUTES: Develop more routes for golf carts, especially ways to get to major attractions like the beach and shopping centers. o ALTERNATIVE FUELS: Continue to support and expand alternative fueling stations-- CNG, electric, hydrogen. NR 6.8 Accessible Alternative Fuel Infrastructure) o SHUTTLES: If a funding source can be identified, develop a program for free electric shuttles to and around areas like the Peninsula, CdM and Fashion Island. Start with a summer program, and consider partnering with schools for offsite parking locations. (CE 1.2.2 Shuttle Service, CE 4.1.2 Seasonal Public Transit) General Plan Update Steering Committee and General Plan Advisory Committee Joint Meeting - February 1, 2023 Item No. V(d) - Additional Materials Received Consideration of Optional Elements o SCHOOL TRAFFIC: Work with the school district to encourage carpooling for those students who drive. Identify and improve safety issues to encourage more students to bike and walk to school. (CE 4.1.7 School Transit, CE 5.1.11 School Access) IMPROVE TRAFFIC EFFICIENCY: More efficient streets mean better traffic flow and fewer emissions. o TRAFFIC LIGHT SYNCHRONIZATION: Continue to improve the synchronization of traffic signals on all major thoroughfares. (CE 2.2.3 Traffic Control, CE 6.1.1 Traffic Signals, CE 6.1.2 Intelligent Transportation Systems, NB 6.6 Traffic Signal Synchronization) o SIGNAGE: Continue to review signs, whether directional or street identification, to be sure they are easy to read and understand. (CE 1.2.1 Wayfinding, CE 7.2.2 Parking Signage, R 9.3 Sign Program) o NEIGHBORING CITIES: Coordinate with abutting cities to maximize alternative transportation opportunities and to improve traffic efficiency. (CE 3.1.2 Integration of Transportation Systems with Adjoining Communities and the Region, CE 6.1.3 Coordination with Adjacent Jurisdictions NR 6.5 Local Transit Agency Collaboration) HELP BUSINESS: The more residents shop within the city, the fewer miles they drive. o BUY LOCAL CAMPAIGN: Work with the Newport Beach and Corona del Mar Chambers on a Buy Local campaign to support local businesses and eliminate miles driven. SHORTEN COMMUTES: The closer people are to work, the less they have to drive. o SUPPORT WORKPLACE HOUSING: Work with major employers like Hoag and create incentives for workplace housing. IMPROVE PARKING AND ROAD INFORMATION: Neighborhoods near the beach suffer from cars circling endlessly, trying to find parking. o BEACH LOT SIGNAGE: Have strategically-placed signs well before the destination announcing when beach lots are full and suggesting alternatives. o HIGHLIGHT ALTERNATIVE ROUTES: Take some of the pressure off local roads, particularly Coast Highway, by pointing out alternatives with signs. Commission a study of the proposed bypass option to use Newport Coast Drive as an alternative to Coast Highway through Corona del Mar. DECREASE EMISSIONS: Big trucks can be a major source of emissions. o REPLACEMENT: Continue to replace City vehicles fueled by gasoline. Set a goal for the City fleet to be completely alternative fuels by the earliest practical date, taking into account the financial considerations. (NR 6.7 City Fleet Vehicles) o CONSOLIDATE WASTE PICKUP: Improve the efficiency of waste pickup and reduce the number of large trucks on streets and in alleys by working with the franchised haulers. 5. ENERGY GOAL--make the city as energy-efficient as possible. Energy providers have struggled to keep up with population growth, and resulting power outages are not just inconvenient--they can be disastrous. Reducing usage will help protect the grid while utilities work General Plan Update Steering Committee and General Plan Advisory Committee Joint Meeting - February 1, 2023 Item No. V(d) - Additional Materials Received Consideration of Optional Elements to augment their capacity. To this end, the City has an excellent Energy Action Plan (EAP) that should continue to be followed diligently. Objective--review, update and adopt the City's Energy Action Plan. (NR 24) CONSERVE ENERGY: One of the most inexpensive ways to reduce energy usage is through conservation. o PARTNER WITH UTILITIES: Our local utilities have a number of programs to help residents and businesses reduce energy usage, and the City should help promote these programs. o PROMOTE EFFICIENCY: Encourage where feasible the most energy-conserving insulation, windows, etc. in new building and remodels. (NR 24.2 Energy Efficient Design Features) PRODUCE ENERGY: Energy savings translate into dollar savings while relieving stress on the grid. o SOLAR TREES: In parking lots, solar trees provide both welcome shade for cars and energy for other uses. Develop a plan to install solar trees in City parking lots where it is aesthetically compatible and financially feasible. Provide incentives for solar trees in private lots. o SOLAR PANELS, BUILDINGS: Solar panels can provide a significant portion of a building's energy requirements. Develop a plan to phase in solar power for City buildings where financially feasible. o SOLAR POWER, HARBOR: Look for sites in the harbor to use solar panels to provide power. o OTHER SOLAR OPPORTUNITIES: Work with agencies and businesses to encourage solar-powered pay stations, signage and bus stop accoutrements. o BIOCOMPOSTING: (as discussed in Waste) Create a site for bio-composting to convert organic waste to gas and electricity. MONITOR ENERGY: The EAP has a number of recommendations for monitoring energy use. o ENERGY AUDITS: Conduct regular energy audits of City buildings to insure efficiency. Report findings on the City website. o ENERGY STUDIES: Use the Enterprise Energy Management Information System and the EPA Portfolio Manager. to monitor City Hall and other City LEED (or the equivalent) buildings to see how they perform vs. how they are supposed to perform to provide information for better buildings in the future. IMPROVE INFORMATION ACCESSIBILITY: Older style meters provide little information to users and require drive-to reading. o MODERN METERS: Work with utility companies to install state-of-the art meters so that residents have timely information on usage and on-site meter reading is eliminated. o REPORT CARDS: Have annual updates on usage so that residents know how the city is doing on energy savings. Post on the City website. 6. WATER General Plan Update Steering Committee and General Plan Advisory Committee Joint Meeting - February 1, 2023 Item No. V(d) - Additional Materials Received Consideration of Optional Elements 6a. WATER CONSERVATION GOAL--make the city as self-sufficient in its water supply as possible while increasing conservation efforts. The city is fortunate not to have to depend on a single source for its water, and it should continue to seek additional sources. At the same time, conservation efforts should be expanded. Objective--meet and exceed State-mandated requirements for conservation. CAPTURE WATER: Runoff is wasted water that also impacts water quality. o CURB CUTS: Where practical and financially feasible, mandate that streets and parking lots be designed to direct runoff to landscaped areas. o STORAGE TANKS: Where practical and financially feasible, infiltrate or capture and reuse on landscape via storage tanks on site complying with low impact development. o RECYCLE WATER: The more recycled water replaces potable water for landscape, the more potable water is available. o INCREASE RECYCLED WATER SUPPLY: The City has identified all purpIe pipe (recycled water) outlets within and immediately adjacent to the city. Determine where extensions of the pipes would create the most benefit (parks, golf courses). Seek private partners, and develop an implementation program to extend the pipes to these areas as part of the Facilities Finance Plan and budget. Permanently tie into CdM High School playing field irrigation to use recycled water on a permanent basis. ( NR 2.1 Recycled Water Use) o GRAY WATER: Simplify the requirements for gray water system installation as much as possible while remaining consistent with state standards. o GROUNDWATER RECHARGE: Look for new sites for recharge. Work with IRWD and Newport Bay Conservancy to determine the feasibility of a site below San Joaquin Marsh. Install infiltration galleries at the outfall of Buck Gully. ( NR 2.2 Advanced Water Treatment Processes) IMPROVE LANDSCAPES: Plantings suitable to our climate save water and can also contribute to water quality by reducing runoff. o DEMONSTRATION GARDENS: Support demonstration gardens, both by the City and by other groups, that showcase plants that use less water. Have photos on the City's web site and also in the Building/Planning area. o TURF REMOVAL: Look at playing fields and other areas in the city for the replacement of grass with artificial turf where practical and financially feasible. Provide incentives for turf removal by residents and businesses. o SMART IRRIGATION SYSTEMS: The City should continue its successful program to provide incentives for residents to change to smart systems, particularly in areas adjacent to sensitive habitat. STRENGTHEN THE MESSAGE: Utilize a variety of ways to get the conservation message out. o REACH RENTERS: Work with landlords to develop reliable and regular ways to communicate with renters about conservation. General Plan Update Steering Committee and General Plan Advisory Committee Joint Meeting - February 1, 2023 Item No. V(d) - Additional Materials Received Consideration of Optional Elements o IMPLEMENT TIERED RATES: These can work as both encouragement to save and discouragement to waste. With the guidance of the City Attorney and in conformity with state law, implement a tiered rate plan that is tailored to individual requirements as much as possible. (NR 1.3 Tiered Water Rates) 6b. WATER QUALITY GOAL--have a healthy ocean, bay and harbor as evidenced by high water quality. The harbor and ocean are major financial engines for the city which has enacted many programs over the years to protect water quality. These efforts must be continued and expanded where possible to maintain the high reputation the city enjoys. Objective--have all beaches receive no lower than a B grade from Heal the Bay and have zero postings in the harbor and elsewhere. REDUCE RUNOFF: Water coming from streets and storm drains is the major conveyor of pollutants to the ocean and bay. o GREEN STREETS: Require street design to minimize runoff with curb cuts and bio swales wherever possible. Where possible, retrofit existing streets to utilize parkways and medians to capture runoff. (HB 8.2 Water Pollution Prevention, HB 8.15 Street Drainage Systems, NR 3.2 Water Pollution Prevention, NR 3.15 Street Drainage Systems) o NATURAL TREATMENT SYSTEMS: Look for opportunities to create systems, particularly where water quality problems are occurring downstream. (HB 8.13 Natural Wetlands, NR 3.13 Natural Wetlands) o PERMEABLE PAVEMENT: Look for opportunities such as the repaving of alleys and parking lots to use a permeable surface. REDUCE TRASH: Trash is not only unsightly but impacts water quality. o DEBRIS BOOMS: Identify additional areas for debris booms and install them in order to capture trash before it reaches the bay and ocean. Have a regular maintenance program not just for the trash removal but for site access. o UPSTREAM PARTNERS: The Newport Bay Watershed Executive Committee is a group of cities, the county and private entities that works together financially and otherwise to solve problems affecting the bay. It is critical that the City play a major role in both the Executive and Management (staff) committees to insure that all those who contribute to the problem continue to be part of the solution. o CDS UNITS AND MARINA TRASH SKIMMERS: Continue to expand both programs using OCTA grants to fund the program. o CATCH BASINS: Catch basins can be a major source of pollutants, particularly when they are never cleaned or cleaned irregularly. The City already cleans a number of basins annually for private entities and should extend this program so that all catch basins are cleaned annually. o SANTA ANA DELHI TRASH REMOVAL PROJECT: Support this project and work with partners to look for maintenance funding opportunities. General Plan Update Steering Committee and General Plan Advisory Committee Joint Meeting - February 1, 2023 Item No. V(d) - Additional Materials Received Consideration of Optional Elements UTILIZE DIVERSIONS: Although not usually a first choice, diversion can be a solution to difficult water quality problems where treatment methods have failed. It can also be a source of water for groundwater replenishment. o IDENTIFY HOTSPOTS: Identify water quality hotspots and determine where it is feasible to divert the source of pollution. o UTILIZE RUNOFF: Many golf courses and other entities use recycled water. Explore the possibility of having them accept diverted runoff to dilute the higher salt content of recycled water. ENCOURAGE CLEAN BOATING: An important part of our marine community, boats are also a source of pollution from things like hull cleaning and older, inefficient engines. o PROMOTE BETTER METHODS AND PRODUCTS: Task the Harbor Commission to develop proposals to lessen the impact of boats on air and water quality. SUPPORT SCIENCE : Science can provide new methods of dealing with water quality problems. It can also provide the basis for challenging water quality standards that appear arbitrary or ineffective. o UCI OCEANS: The City should take advantage of UCI Oceans which is committed to establishing new partnerships. o KERKHOFF MARINE LAB: The City should promote and help fund this unique facility, both in its location and the fact that it has an ocean-intake pipe, something that would be virtually impossible to get permitted today. UCI is committed to the revitalization of the lab, both for marine science studies and as a resource for marine education for youth. o GUTTER BUDDIES: The City should encourage the State Water Board to accept a natural exclusion clause for bacterial TMDLs, as proposed in the biofilm study by residents (Dr. and Mrs. Jack Skinner) and staff (John Kappeler). Such an exclusion would mean lower testing costs and fewer beach closures while not negatively impacting swimmers' health. 7. URBAN OUTDOORS GOAL -- protect and enhance recreational and natural open space. From the Upper Bay to the beaches, Sunset Ridge Park to Buck Gully, the city's open spaces provide recreation, solace and habitat within an increasingly urban environment. Protecting these resources helps maintain the city's life style as well as property values and tourism. (LU 1.3 Natural Resources, NR 13.1 Wetland Protection) CLEAN, HEALTHY BEACHES AND PARKS: Our parks and beaches are major attractions for both residents and visitors and must be maintained at the highest level. o PARTNERSHIPS: Work with community groups on clean up and beautification programs such as adopt-a-beach and adopt-a-park. o FEWER PESTICIDES: Continue to reduce the use of and find alternatives to chemical pesticides and herbicides in city parks and open space. (HB 8.1 Chemical Uses Impacting Water Quality, NR 3.1 Chemical Uses Impacting Water Quality) General Plan Update Steering Committee and General Plan Advisory Committee Joint Meeting - February 1, 2023 Item No. V(d) - Additional Materials Received Consideration of Optional Elements o GREEN LINKAGE: Develop a green linkage plan that connects the city's parks and beaches with green corridors and pedestrian/bike ways. URBAN FOREST: Newport Beach is a TreeCity/USA recipient. Our trees are a vital part of our neighborhoods. o URBAN FOREST MASTER PLAN: Finalize a master plan for the replacement of trees that insures a good percentage of mature trees in every area of the city at all times. Set a specific goal for the number of replacement and additive trees each year o PARKWAY TREES: Provide longer irrigation periods by the City to insure the survival of new trees. Provide more information to homeowners on the care of trees in their parkways. o ADDITIONAL SELECTION CRITERIA: In addition to site suitability, in selecting trees include criteria for species that support birds, bees and other important fauna. o USE EXISTING PLANS: Make good use of plans already prepared by staff and community. o HAMP AND HARBOR ELEMENT: Task the Harbor Commission with oversight of the Harbor Area Management Plan and Harbor Element of the General Plan, and have the Commission present an annual report on how well the City is implementing them. o SANTA ANA RIVER TRAIL VISION: Task the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission with oversight of this plan, and have the Commission present an annual report on progress. CONTINUE TO PROVIDE OPEN SPACE AREAS: While most of the city is built out, there are still areas that have been ignored and with care will provide new recreational resources and habitat. o ORANGE COAST RIVER PARK: Continue to support the efforts of Orange Coast River Park, Inc. to facilitate more coordination among landowners in improving this area. o BIG CANYON NATURE PARK/JOHN WAYNE GULCH/NEWPORT CANYON: Follow the plans created by staff and look for new opportunities to move efforts forward. (NR 16.2 Big Canyon Creek Restoration Project) PROTECT RESOURCES: The growth of population and accompanying development have impacted our most sensitive areas. o TIDEPOOLS: Work with Orange County Marine Protected Area Council to expand programs protecting the sensitive rocky areas from Big Corona to Crystal Cove. o UPPER BAY: Work with other landowners and the Newport Bay Conservancy to implement recreation and restoration plans. (HB 7.2, HB 7.3, NR 16.3, NR 16.4 Management of UNBER; HB 7.4, NR 16.5 Public Uses within UNBER; HB7.5, NR 16.6 Water Related Education and Research within UNBER; NR 16.1 Funding Support for UNBER) o WESTERN SNOWY PLOVER: Continue to work with both residents and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to protect breeding areas for the plover. o SEA LEVEL RISE: While there has been a lot of discussion of the bay, particularly Balboa Island, the ocean-facing areas have been largely ignored. DEVELOP AN OCEAN PLAN: Develop a plan to deal with sea level rise along the ocean front that avoids armoring and supports natural treatments including deep beaches and General Plan Update Steering Committee and General Plan Advisory Committee Joint Meeting - February 1, 2023 Item No. V(d) - Additional Materials Received Consideration of Optional Elements dunes. The plan should include a schematic for the use of dredging spoils, particularly from the Santa Ana River. (NR 5.1 Dredging Projects) General Plan Update Steering Committee and General Plan Advisory Committee Joint Meeting - February 1, 2023 Item No. V(d) - Additional Materials Received Consideration of Optional Elements