HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-42 - Denying an Appeal and Upholding the Decision of the Planning Commission to Approve a Limited Term Permit for a Soil Vapor Extraction and Treatment System Located Adjacent to 94 Hartford Drive [NH] (PA2022-0180)RESOLUTION NO. 2023-42
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF NEWPORT BEACH, CALIFORNIA, DENYING AN
APPEAL AND UPHOLDING THE DECISION OF THE
PLANNING COMMISSION TO APPROVE A LIMITED
TERM PERMIT FOR A SOIL VAPOR EXTRACTION AND
TREATMENT SYSTEM LOCATED ADJACENT TO 94
HARTFORD DRIVE [NH] (PA2022-0180)
WHEREAS, an application was filed by WSP USA ("Applicant"), requesting
approval of a limited term permit along Country Club Drive and adjacent to the property
located at 94 Hartford Drive, and legally described as Lot 4 of Tract No. 12164 ("Property");
WHEREAS, the Property is located within the area that was formerly the Ford
Aeronutronic facility operated by Ford Motor Company from 1957 to 1993 for aerospace
and electronic research, development, and production;
WHEREAS, volatile organic compounds ("VOC") were used to clean the metal parts
of the operating equipment as part of the on -site operations of Ford Motor Company;
WHEREAS, the facility was demolished between 1993 and 1996 and the Santa Ana
Regional Water Quality Control Board ("Water Board"), the leading regulatory agency for
the former Ford Aeronutronic facility and related off -site areas, has overseen remediation to
address the environmental impacts of the facility operations including bioremediation,
excavation, disposal of soils and groundwater, as well as soil vapor treatment systems;
WHEREAS, the site was subsequently rezoned and redeveloped for residential
purposes in the 1990s and ongoing monitoring of groundwater and site conditions
continues;
WHEREAS, although remediation actions were previously conducted, the Water
Board has determined that further remediation is necessary due to more stringent
regulatory standards and advances in equipment sensitivity and detection limits;
WHEREAS, the Applicant requests a limited term permit to construct a soil vapor
extraction and treatment system consisting of a treatment system building that has a 20-foot
width by 12-foot depth by 10-foot height, an underground pipe network (approximately 2,400
linear ft.), and 13 extraction wells for soil gas remediation located within the setback of
Country Club Drive with a 3.2-foot separation from 94 Hartford Drive where the required
setback is 8 feet for a term of approximately 12 months ("Project");
Resolution No. 2023-42
Page 2 of 5
WHEREAS, the Property is designated Multiple Residential (RM) by the General
Plan Land Use Element and located within the Aeronutronic Ford Planned Community (PC-
24) Zoning District;
WHEREAS, the Property is not located within the coastal zone, therefore, a coastal
development permit is not required;
WHEREAS, a public hearing before the Zoning Administrator was originally
scheduled on January 26, 2023. A notice of the time, place, and purpose of the hearing was
given in accordance with Chapter 20.62 (Public Hearings) of the Newport Beach Municipal
Code ("NBMC"). The Zoning Administrator continued the item to the meeting of March 2,
2023;
WHEREAS, at the continued public hearing held on March 2, 2023, evidence both
written and oral, was presented to and considered by the Zoning Administrator at this
hearing;
WHEREAS, at the conclusion of the hearing, the Zoning Administrator adopted
Resolution No. ZA2023-010 approving Limited Term Permit PA2022-0180;
WHEREAS, on March 14, 2023, Amy Santella and Kevin Solomita filed an appeal
of the Zoning Administrator's decision objecting to the location of the soil vapor extraction
and treatment system building based on safety concerns due to the proximity to the
residents;
WHEREAS, a public hearing was held by the Planning Commission on May 18,
2023, in the City Council Chambers at 100 Civic Center Drive, Newport Beach, California.
A notice of time, place and purpose of the public hearing was given in accordance with
California Government Code Section 54950 et seq. ("Ralph M. Brown Act") and Chapter
20.62 (Public Hearings) of the NBMC. Evidence, both written and oral, was presented to,
and considered by, the Planning Commission at this public hearing. The Planning
Commission continued the meeting to June 22, 2023;
WHEREAS, at the continued public hearing held on June 22, 2023, evidence, both
written and oral, was presented to, and considered by, the Planning Commission at this
public hearing;
Resolution No. 2023-42
Page 3 of 5
WHEREAS, at the conclusion of the hearing, the Planning Commission adopted
Resolution No. PC2023-023 (4 ayes, 2 nays, 1 recusal) upholding the Zoning
Administrator's approval of Limited Term Permit PA2022-0180;
WHEREAS, on July 5, 2023, Amy Santella, Kevin Solomita, Leslie Pratt, and Lee
Healy filed an appeal of the Planning Commission's decision objecting to the location of the
soil vapor extraction and treatment system building based on safety concerns due to the
proximity to the residents; and
WHEREAS, a public hearing was held by the City Council on July 25, 2023, in the
City Council Chambers located at 100 Civic Center Drive, Newport Beach, California. A
notice of time, place and purpose of the public hearing was given in accordance with the
Ralph M. Brown Act and Chapter 20.62 (Public Hearings) of the NBMC. Evidence, both
written and oral, was presented to, and considered by, the City Council at this public hearing.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Newport Beach resolves as
follows:
Section 1: The City Council has considered the decision of the Planning
Commission and determined that modifications to the Project made by the City Council,
if any, are not major changes that require referral back to the Planning Commission for
consideration and recommendation.
Section 2: The City Council does hereby uphold the Planning Commission's
approval of Limited Term Permit PA2022-0180 based upon the Findings attached hereto
as Exhibit 'A," and subject to the conditions of approval set forth in Exhibit "B," which are
attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference.
Section 3: The recitals provided in this resolution are true and correct and are
incorporated into the operative part of this resolution.
Section 4: If any section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this
resolution is, for any reason, held to be invalid or unconstitutional, such decision shall not
affect the validity or constitutionality of the remaining portions of this resolution. The City
Council hereby declares that it would have passed this resolution, and each section,
subsection, sentence, clause or phrase hereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or
more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses or phrases be declared invalid or
unconstitutional.
Resolution No. 2023-42
Page 4 of 5
Section 5: The City Council finds the adoption of this resolution is exempt from
environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant
to Section 15330 (Minor Actions to Prevent, Minimize, Stabilize, Mitigate or Eliminate the
Release or Threat of Release of Hazardous Water or Hazardous Substances), under
Section 15308 (Actions by Regulatory Agencies for Protection of the Environment), and
Section 15303 (New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures) of the CEQA
Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 6, Chapter 3.
Section 15330 exempts minor cleanup actions taken to prevent, minimize,
stabilize, mitigate, or eliminate the release or threat of release of hazardous waste or
substance which are small or medium removal actions costing $1 million or less. The
cleanup action shall not require the onsite use of a hazardous waste incinerator or thermal
treatment unit, or the relocation of residences or businesses. The action shall not involve
the potential release into the air of VOC as defined in Health and Safety Code Section
25123.6, except for small-scale in situ soil vapor extraction and treatment systems which
have been permitted by the local Air Quality Management District ("AQMD"). The cleanup
action must be consistent with all applicable state and local environmental permitting
requirements such as off -site disposal, and air quality rules, and approved by the
regulatory body with jurisdiction over the site. The Project is consistent with the intent of
Section 15330 for minor cleanup actions as it proposes to mitigate the presence of VOC
in the soil without the use of a hazardous waste incinerator or thermal treatment unit and
the cost of often the facility is under $1 million. The Project will not relocate any residences
or businesses. Coordination with the Water Board has commenced and a permit for the
release of VOC into the air in small-scale in situ soil vapor extraction and treatment
systems will be obtained. The Project is consistent with all applicable state and local
environmental permitting requirements and is approved by the Water Board.
Section 15308 actions taken by regulatory agencies as authorized by state law or
local ordinance to assure the maintenance, restoration, enhancement, or protection of the
environment where the regulatory process involves procedures for protection of the
environment. Construction activities and relaxation of standards allowing environmental
degradation are not included in this exemption. The Project has been mandated by the
Water Board as part of the required ongoing monitoring of groundwater and site
conditions of the former Ford Facility. The Project will remediate the existence of VOC
observed in the soil in order to protect the environment as well as the residents of the
community. No construction activities or relaxation of standards that would cause
environmental degradation are proposed and the Project is consistent with the intent of
the Section 15308.
Resolution No. 2023-42
Page 5 of 5
Section 15303 exempts the construction of new, small facilities or structures
including accessory (appurtenant) structures including garages, carports, patios,
swimming pools, and fences. The Project proposes the construction of a small 240-
square-foot treatment system building for the purpose of soil vapor remediation. The soil
vapor extraction and treatment system is intended to remediate the presence of VOCs
for the residents of the Bayridge Park community. The exceptions to this categorical
exemption under Section 15300.2 are not applicable. The Project location does not
impact an environmental resource of hazardous or critical concern, does not result in
cumulative impacts, does not have a significant effect on the environment due to unusual
circumstances, does not damage scenic resources within a state scenic highway, is not
a hazardous waste site, and is not identified as a historical resource.
Section 6: This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption by the
City Council, and the City Clerk shall certify the vote adopting the resolution.
ADOPTED this 25th day of July, 2023.
ATTEST:
C
Leilani I. B
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
CITY ATTORNEY'S OFFICE
Aaron C. Harp
City Attorney
Attachments: Exhibit "A" — Findings In Support of Limited Term Permit PA2022-01
Exhibit "B" — Conditions of Approval
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
COUNTY OF ORANGE ; ss.
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
I, Leilani I. Brown, City Clerk of the City of Newport Beach, California, do hereby certify that the
whole number of members of the City Council is seven; the foregoing resolution, being Resolution
No. 2023-42 was duly introduced before and adopted by the City Council of said City at a regular meeting
of said Council held on the 25th day of July, 2023; and the same was so passed and adopted by the
following vote, to wit:
AYES: Mayor Noah Blom, Mayor Pro Tern Will O'Neill, Council Member Brad Avery, Council
Member Robyn Grant, Council Member Lauren Kleiman, Council Member Joe Stapleton,
Council Member Erik Weigand
NAYS: None
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed the official seal of
said City this 26th day of July, 2023.
W1, k � M/o. /91 , t � �j
Leilani I. Brown I
City Clerk f
Newport Beach, California
EXHIBIT "A"
FINDINGS IN SUPPORT OF LIMITED TERM PERMIT PA2022-0180
In accordance with Section 20.52.040(G) (Limited Term Permits) of the NBMC, the
following findings, and facts in support of findings are set forth as follows:
Finding:
A. The operation of the limited duration uses at the location proposed and within the
period specified would not be detrimental to the harmonious and orderly growth of the
City, nor endanger, jeopardize, or otherwise constitute a hazard to the public
convenience, health, interest, safety, or general welfare of persons residing or working
in the neighborhood of the requested limited duration use;
Facts in Support of Finding:
1. The treatment system building will be located adjacent to the residence at 94 Hartford
Drive, along Country Club Drive, outside of common residential areas of the Bayridge
Park Homeowner's Association. The building will be visually hidden from residents'
sight as much as possible. The building will be designed with a gable roof and provide
exterior siding painted to match the architectural exterior of the surrounding residential
units along Hartford Drive. A new xeriscape landscape will be planted in and around
the new treatment system building, which will help soften the visual impact of the
structure.
2. An Acoustical Engineering Analysis was prepared by Yanchar Design & Consulting
Group dated February 8, 2023. The predicted noise level in the Acoustical Engineering
Analysis at the exterior of the treatment system building and adjacent residences of
92 and 96 Hartford Drive on the Property is 48.8 dBA which is consistent with the
allowable exterior noise standards of 55 dBA from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm and 50 dBA
from 10:00 pm to 7:00 am in the NBMC. The predicted noise level at 61 Hillsdale
Drive, the nearest off -site residence, is calculated to be 34.9 dBA. Therefore, the
treatment system building is expected to meet the requirements of the City of Newport
Beach's ("City") regulations for both the same property and nearest adjacent
residential property.
4. To minimize impacts to the community and adjacent residences from noise and
construction, Condition of Approval Nos. 17 and 18 have been added requiring the
treatment system building to be constructed off -site and an acoustic audit of the unit
running at its maximum capacity prior to installation. The intent of the off -site acoustic
audit is to ensure it complies with the City's noise standards prior to transportation to
the building site. After installation of the treatment system building on -site, a
subsequent acoustic audit will be required to be conducted to further ensure the
building complies with the City's noise standards.
5. The wall of the treatment system building adjacent to the building at 94 Hartford Drive
will be constructed with a two hour fire rated wall in accordance with the California
Building Code ("CBC") and Building Division standards and policies. Construction
plans will be reviewed for compliance with the CBC and Building Division before
building permit issuance.
6. The building will be secured to the concrete pad with anchors chosen for the
earthquake risk parameters of the Newport Beach area. The treatment system
building will additionally be secured with a monitoring system that will safely shut down
the system in the event of an earthquake or other unforeseen natural disasters and
an operations manager will be alerted of the shutdown. The treatment system will be
monitored and inspected for potential damages prior to restart.
7. The treatment system is designed to meet the standards of AQMD for the release of
VOCs into the air at a level that is protective of the health of the community. The
treatment system will incorporate two granular activated carbon filters that will remove
VOCs in the soil before the air is discharged from the treatment system. As stated by
the Applicant, total VOC concentration will be measured using a real-time monitor at
least once a day for the first seven days of operation to confirm the system is operating
as designed and within permit specifications which are set to be protective of public
health. Subsequent monitoring will continue weekly, or more frequently as required by
AQMD. All findings will be reported to the Water Board and will be made available to
the public. Laboratory samples will be collected and analyzed on a frequency required
by AQMD to confirm the efficacy of the granular activated carbon filter vessels and the
treatment system overall.
8. The treatment system includes multiple redundancies to ensure concentrations of
organic compounds released from the exhaust stack, if any, are below the AQMD
emission limits. These emission limits are based on risk calculations that consider the
most sensitive populations, including infants and young children. As stated by the
Applicant, the vapors emitted are not acutely toxic. However, concentrations higher
than the screening levels are currently being detected in the indoor of many homes in
the Bayridge Park community and can cause effects over time which constitutes an
urgency to implement remediation methods in the community.
Finding:
B. The subject lot is adequate in size and shape to accommodate the limited duration
use without material detriment to the use and enjoyment of other properties located
adjacent to and in the vicinity of the lot;
Facts in Support of Finding:
1. The Property is within Planning Area 8 (Attached Residential) of the Aeronutronic Ford
Planned Community (PC-24) Zoning District, which is approximately 12 acres in size.
The proposed building will be located within the setback of Country Club Drive and
adjacent to the residence of 94 Hartford Drive and Country Club Road and will not
negatively impact on -site vehicular circulation.
2. As conditioned, the treatment system building will require an acoustic audit prior to
transportation of the building onto the Property and after installation on -site to ensure
it meets the allowable exterior noise standards of the NBMC.
3. The treatment system will be located within a new prefabricated building, which is 20
feet by 12 feet and 240 square feet in size. The building is 10-feet 2-inches to the top
of the roof and 13-feet 5-inches to the top of the air exhaust. The existing dwelling is
two stories and the proposed treatment system building will be visually hidden from
the residents of the Bayridge Park community as much as possible.
4. The treatment system building will be located on private property and will not impact
pedestrian or vehicular access along Country Club Drive.
5. Given its location, the treatment system building will be most visible to the adjacent
residents of 94 Hartford Drive and to the residents of the One Ford Road community
that takes access from Country Club Drive. As designed and conditioned, the
treatment system building will be designed with a gable roof and provide exterior
siding painted to match the architectural exterior of the surrounding residential units
along Hartford Drive and landscaped with new xeriscape plantings to help soften the
visual impacts from the adjacent private street.
6. Locations along Bison Avenue, a public right-of-way, were considered for the Project;
however, the area was determined to not provide adequate space for the placement
of the building. Significant grading into the slope would be required to install the
building and the construction of new retaining walls would be needed to not impact
the structural integrity of the existing retaining walls surrounding the Bayridge Park
community. Given that this is a temporary project, this alternative was deemed
infeasible.
7. Additional locations along Country Club Drive were considered providing a greater
separation from 94 Hartford Drive. Unfortunately, the landscape parkway was either
too narrow to accommodate the facility or too steep, requiring significant grading that
would impact the condition of the Bayridge Park community and structural integrity of
the existing retaining walls surrounding the community.
8. Alternative locations were considered within the Bayridge Park community within
landscaped areas that provided adequate building separation from residents. These
areas would require significant removal of existing trees within the community and the
placement of the treatment system building will cause a disruption to existing drainage
and creek beds. Additionally, placement of the treatment system building in these
areas will create heavy visual impacts within the community and remove much needed
parking for the residents.
9. In total, seven options were considered for the location of the soil vapor extraction
system where the factors included: disruption to the neighborhood, proximity to
homes, impact on parking, permitting complexity, implementation complexity, and
power connection complexity. These factors were reviewed on a scale from low,
medium, high, to infeasible. Six of the options encountered infeasibilities due to either
impact on parking, permitting complexity, implementation complexity, or power
connection complexity. Due to these infeasibilities, the location adjacent to 94 Hartford
Drive was selected.
Finding:
C. The subject lot is adequately served by streets or highways having sufficient width
and improvements to accommodate the kind and quantity of traffic that the limited
duration use would or could reasonably be expected to generate, -
Facts in Support of Finding:
1. The proposed treatment system building will be located adjacent to an existing private
street, which is an entryway into the One Ford Road community. The building location
is within an existing sloped and landscaped area that will not interfere with any
circulation drive aisles.
2. The soil vapor extraction and treatment system will require ongoing on -site monitoring
and maintenance that will consist of one or two field staff visiting the site approximately
once a month to collect samples and perform maintenance as needed. No large
commercial vehicles are required for monthly monitoring and maintenance and no
impact or increase in traffic is expected.
3. Carbon changeouts that require a vacuum truck and one truck trailer and boom lift
attachment parked on Country Club Drive are to take place two times per year for four
to six hours at a time. This routine maintenance has a low frequency and will not
completely obstruct the traffic circulation on Country Club Drive. Country Club Drive
is a private street in a private community and is not subject to additional permits from
Public Works. The Bayridge Park Homeowner's Association and One Ford Road
Homeowner's Association will be notified at least seven days before maintenance.
Finding:
D. Adequate temporary parking to accommodate vehicular traffic to be generated by the
limited duration use would be available either on -site or at alternate locations
acceptable to the City Council; and
Fact in Support of Finding:
1. Planning Area 8 of the Aeronutronic Ford Planned Community (PC-24) Zoning District
requires a minimum of two guest parking spaces per cluster unit development where
cluster unit development is defined as a combination or arrangement of attached or
detached dwellings and their accessory structures on contiguous or related building
sites. As conditioned, field staff performing on -site monitoring and maintenance will
utilize the on -site guest parking spaces within the Bayridge Park Community during
monthly visits.
2. Fact 3 in support of finding C is incorporated here by reference.
Finding:
E. The limited duration use is consistent with all applicable provisions of the General
Plan, any applicable specific plan, the Municipal Code, and other City regulations.
Facts in Support of Finding:
1. The limited term permit would allow the limited duration use to deviate from setback
requirements and building separation requirements of the PC-24 Zoning District
pursuant to Section 20,52.040 (Limited Term Permits) of the NBMC.
2. The temporary treatment system building with an approximate one-year duration is
conditioned to comply with all other applicable provisions of the General Plan,
Municipal Code, and other City regulations.
3. The treatment system building is conditioned to comply with all applicable provisions
of the City's allowable exterior noise level. Condition of Approval Nos. 17 and 18 have
been added requiring an acoustic audit of the prefabricated building and treatment
system unit running at its maximum capacity prior to installation, and a subsequent
audit after installation.
EXHIBIT "B"
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
Planning Division
The development shall be in substantial conformance with the approved site plan,
floor plans, and building elevations stamped and dated with the date of this approval
(except as modified by applicable conditions of approval).
2. The Project is subject to all applicable City ordinances, policies, and standards
unless specifically waived or modified by the conditions of approval.
3. The Applicant shall comply with all federal, state, and local laws. A material
violation of any of those laws in connection with the use may be caused the
revocation of this limited term permit.
4. This Limited Term Permit may be modified or revoked by the Zoning Administrator
if determined that the proposed uses or conditions under which it is being operated
or maintained are detrimental to the public health, welfare or materially injurious to
property or improvements in the vicinity or if the property is operated or maintained
to constitute a public nuisance.
5. This Limited Term Permit shall expire twelve (12) months from the date of final
issuance of the building permit unless an extension of up to one (1) additional period
of 12 months is granted by the Zoning Administrator in compliance with Section
20.54.060 (Time Limits and Extensions) of the Zoning Code. A letter requesting the
extension shall be submitted to the Planning Division no later than thirty (30) days
before the expiration date of this permit.
6. Upon completion of this soil remediation project, the applicant is required to obtain a
demolition permit from the City's Building Division and the site shall be returned to its
former conditions prior to construction.
7. The treatment system building shall be designed with a gable roof and provide siding
painted to match colors that are architecturally compatible with surrounding
residential units.
8. Maintenance vehicles shall utilize residential guest spaces within the Bayridge Park
community with approval from the Bayridge Park Homeowner's Association when
working at the soil vapor extraction system and treatment facility.
9. Maintenance requiring large commercial vehicles shall be permitted to park on
Country Club Road no more than two (2) times per calendar year unless otherwise
required for health and safety. The applicant shall notify the Bayridge Park
Homeowner's Association and the One Ford Road Homeowner's Association in
writing at least seven (7) days before performing maintenance.
10. Prior to the issuance of building permits, the A/C unit serving 94 Hartford shall be
relocated so that it does not interfere with the building separation between the
prefabricated building and the residential unit.
11. Prior to the issuance of building permits, the project plans shall be modified to
demonstrate that any disturbed landscape areas shall be replanted with water -
efficient landscaping by Chapter 14.17 (Water Efficient Landscaping).
12. Prior to the issuance of a final building permit, the applicant shall obtain approval
for a Permit to Construct (P/C) from the South Coast Quality Air Management
District.
13. Any change in operational characteristics, expansion in the area, or other
modification to the approved plans, shall require additional review from the
Planning Division and may require an amendment to this Limited Term Permit or
the processing of a new Limited Term Permit.
14. A copy of the Resolution, including conditions of approval Exhibit "A" shall be
incorporated into the Building Division and field sets of plans before issuance of
the building permits.
15. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, the applicant shall submit a landscape
and irrigation plan prepared by a licensed landscape architect. These plans shall
demonstrate the restoration of surrounding landscaping to provide further
screening for the treatment system building.
16. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, the applicant shall pay any unpaid
administrative costs associated with the processing of this application to the
Planning Division.
17. The treatment system unit shall be constructed off -site and prior to the
transportation of the prefabricated treatment system unit to the project site and
after installation of the structure, an acoustic audit shall be performed to ensure
that the noise level observed at the exterior of the structure meets the allowable
exterior noise standards of Chapter 10.26 and other applicable noise control
requirements of the Newport Beach Municipal Code. The results of the acoustic
audit shall be submitted to the Planning Division prior to final inspection of the
building permit.
18. All noise generated by the proposed use shall comply with the provisions of
Chapter 10.26 and other applicable noise control requirements of the Newport
Beach Municipal Code. The maximum noise shall be limited to no more than
depicted below for the specified periods unless the ambient noise level is higher:
Between the hours of 7:00 AM
and 10:00 PM
Between the hours of 10:00
PM and 7:00 AM
Location
Interior
Exterior
Interior
Exterior
Residential Property
45dBA
55dBA
40dBA
50dBA
Residential Property located within
100 feet of a commercial property
45dBA
60dBA
45dBA
50dBA
Mixed Use Property
45dBA
60dBA
45dBA
50dBA
Commercial Property
N/A
65dBA
N/A
60dBA
19. Should the property be sold or otherwise come under different ownership, any
future owners or assignees shall be notified of the conditions of this approval by
either the current business owner, property owner, or leasing agent.
20. Construction activities shall comply with Section 10.28.040 of the Newport Beach
Municipal Code, which restricts hours of noise -generating construction activities
that produce noise to between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., Monday
through Friday, and 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on Saturday. Noise -generating
construction activities are not allowed on Sundays or Holidays.
21. This approval shall expire and become void unless exercised within 24 months from
the actual date of review authority approval, except where an extension of time is
approved in compliance with the provisions of Title 20 Planning and Zoning of the
Newport Beach Municipal Code.
22. The applicant shall obtain all necessary permits or authorization from the Regional
Water Quality Control Board and the South Coast Air Quality Management District.
The project shall be designed, implemented, operated, and maintained in
accordance with said permits or authorization from both agencies.
23. To the fullest extent permitted by law, the applicant shall indemnify, defend and hold
harmless the City, its City Council, its boards and commissions, officials, officers,
employees, and agents from and against any claims, demands, obligations,
damages, actions, causes of action, suits, losses, judgments, fines, penalties,
liabilities, costs, and expenses (including without limitation, attorney's fees,
disbursements, and court costs) of every kind and nature whatsoever which may
arise from or in any manner relate (directly or indirectly) to City's approval of
Aeronutronic Ford Soil Vapor Remediation including, but not limited to,
Limited Term Permit (PA2022-0180). This indemnification shall include, but not be
limited to, damages awarded against the City, if any, costs of suit, attorney's fees,
and other expenses incurred in connection with such claim, action, causes of action,
suit or proceeding whether incurred by the applicant, City, and/or the parties initiating
or bringing the such proceeding. The applicant shall indemnify the City for all of the
City's costs, attorneys' fees, and damages that which City incurs in enforcing the
indemnification provisions outlined in this condition. The applicant shall pay to the
City upon demand any amount owed to the City under the indemnification
requirements prescribed in this condition.
Fire Department
24. A three (3)-foot wide walkway shall be provided on at least one (1) side of the lot
from Country Club Drive for Fire Department access.
Building Division
25. The Applicant is required to obtain all applicable permits from the City's Building
Division and Fire Department. The construction plans must comply with the most
recent, City -adopted version of the California Building Code.
26. A list of "good housekeeping" practices will be incorporated into the long-term post -
construction operation of the site to minimize the likelihood that pollutants will be
used, stored, or spilled on the site that could impair water quality. These may
include frequent parking area vacuum truck sweeping, removal of wastes or spills,
limited use of harmful fertilizers or pesticides, and the diversion of stormwater away
from potential sources of pollution (e.g., trash receptacles and parking structures).
The Stage 2 WQMP shall list and describe all structural and non-structural BMPs.
In addition, the WQMP must also identify the entity responsible for the long-term
inspection, maintenance, and funding for all structural (and if applicable Treatment
Control) BMPs.
Electrical, Mechanical, and Plumbing Division
27. All exhaust air shall terminate outside of the treatment system building in
accordance with the requirements of California Mechanical Code 502.0.
28. Discharged liquid waste or sewage shall be connected properly to the drainage
system of the premises in accordance with the requirements pursuant to California
Plumbing Code, Chapter 7.
29. Prior to issuance of a building permit, the applicant shall ensure the location of the
exhaust is adequately sited away from any residential building openings.
Public Works Division
30. Prior to the start of construction, the applicant shall obtain an encroachment permit
and enter into an encroachment agreement and approved as to form by the City
Attorney's Office for the installation of the treatment system building.
31. The building foundation shall be constructed only of a slab and shall not be
constructed with stem walls or deepened footings.
EXHIBIT "A"
FINDINGS IN SUPPORT OF LIMITED TERM PERMIT PA2022-0180
In accordance with Section 20.52.040(G) (Limited Term Permits) of the NBMC, the
following findings, and facts in support of findings are set forth as follows:
Finding:
A. The operation of the limited duration uses at the location proposed and within the
period specified would not be detrimental to the harmonious and orderly growth of the
City, nor endanger, jeopardize, or otherwise constitute a hazard to the public
convenience, health, interest, safety, or general welfare of persons residing or working
in the neighborhood of the requested limited duration use;
Facts in Support of Finding:
1. The treatment system building will be located adjacent to the residence at 94 Hartford
Drive, along Country Club Drive, outside of common residential areas of the Bayridge
Park Homeowner's Association. The building will be visually hidden from residents'
sight as much as possible. The building will be designed with a gable roof and provide
exterior siding painted to match the architectural exterior of the surrounding residential
units along Hartford Drive. A new xeriscape landscape will be planted in and around
the new treatment system building, which will help soften the visual impact of the
structure.
2. An Acoustical Engineering Analysis was prepared by Yanchar Design & Consulting
Group dated February 8, 2023. The predicted noise level in the Acoustical Engineering
Analysis at the exterior of the treatment system building and adjacent residences of
92 and 96 Hartford Drive on the Property is 48.8 dBA which is consistent with the
allowable exterior noise standards of 55 dBA from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm and 50 dBA
from 10:00 pm to 7:00 am in the NBMC. The predicted noise level at 61 Hillsdale
Drive, the nearest off -site residence, is calculated to be 34.9 dBA. Therefore, the
treatment system building is expected to meet the requirements of the City of Newport
Beach's ("City") regulations for both the same property and nearest adjacent
residential property.
4. To minimize impacts to the community and adjacent residences from noise and
construction, Condition of Approval Nos. 17 and 18 have been added requiring the
treatment system building to be constructed off -site and an acoustic audit of the unit
running at its maximum capacity prior to installation. The intent of the off -site acoustic
audit is to ensure it complies with the City's noise standards prior to transportation to
the building site. After installation of the treatment system building on -site, a
subsequent acoustic audit will be required to be conducted to further ensure the
building complies with the City's noise standards.
5. The wall of the treatment system building adjacent to the building at 94 Hartford Drive
will be constructed with a two hour fire rated wall in accordance with the California
Building Code ("CBC") and Building Division standards and policies. Construction
plans will be reviewed for compliance with the CBC and Building Division before
building permit issuance.
6. The building will be secured to the concrete pad with anchors chosen for the
earthquake risk parameters of the Newport Beach area. The treatment system
building will additionally be secured with a monitoring system that will safely shut down
the system in the event of an earthquake or other unforeseen natural disasters and
an operations manager will be alerted of the shutdown. The treatment system will be
monitored and inspected for potential damages prior to restart.
7. The treatment system is designed to meet the standards of AQMD for the release of
VOCs into the air at a level that is protective of the health of the community. The
treatment system will incorporate two granular activated carbon filters that will remove
VOCs in the soil before the air is discharged from the treatment system. As stated by
the Applicant, total VOC concentration will be measured using a real-time monitor at
least once a day for the first seven days of operation to confirm the system is operating
as designed and within permit specifications which are set to be protective of public
health. Subsequent monitoring will continue weekly, or more frequently as required by
AQMD. All findings will be reported to the Water Board and will be made available to
the public. Laboratory samples will be collected and analyzed on a frequency required
by AQMD to confirm the efficacy of the granular activated carbon filter vessels and the
treatment system overall.
8. The treatment system includes multiple redundancies to ensure concentrations of
organic compounds released from the exhaust stack, if any, are below the AQMD
emission limits. These emission limits are based on risk calculations that consider the
most sensitive populations, including infants and young children. As stated by the
Applicant, the vapors emitted are not acutely toxic. However, concentrations higher
than the screening levels are currently being detected in the indoor of many homes in
the Bayridge Park community and can cause effects over time which constitutes an
urgency to implement remediation methods in the community.
Finding:
B. The subject lot is adequate in size and shape to accommodate the limited duration
use without material detriment to the use and enjoyment of other properties located
adjacent to and in the vicinity of the lot;
Facts in Support of Finding:
1. The Property is within Planning Area 8 (Attached Residential) of the Aeronutronic Ford
Planned Community (PC-24) Zoning District, which is approximately 12 acres in size.
The proposed building will be located within the setback of Country Club Drive and
adjacent to the residence of 94 Hartford Drive and Country Club Road and will not
negatively impact on -site vehicular circulation.
2. As conditioned, the treatment system building will require an acoustic audit prior to
transportation of the building onto the Property and after installation on -site to ensure
it meets the allowable exterior noise standards of the NBMC.
3. The treatment system will be located within a new prefabricated building, which is 20
feet by 12 feet and 240 square feet in size. The building is 10-feet 2-inches to the top
of the roof and 13-feet 5-inches to the top of the air exhaust. The existing dwelling is
two stories and the proposed treatment system building will be visually hidden from
the residents of the Bayridge Park community as much as possible.
4. The treatment system building will be located on private property and will not impact
pedestrian or vehicular access along Country Club Drive.
5. Given its location, the treatment system building will be most visible to the adjacent
residents of 94 Hartford Drive and to the residents of the One Ford Road community
that takes access from Country Club Drive. As designed and conditioned, the
treatment system building will be designed with a gable roof and provide exterior
siding painted to match the architectural exterior of the surrounding residential units
along Hartford Drive and landscaped with new xeriscape plantings to help soften the
visual impacts from the adjacent private street.
6. Locations along Bison Avenue, a public right-of-way, were considered for the Project;
however, the area was determined to not provide adequate space for the placement
of the building. Significant grading into the slope would be required to install the
building and the construction of new retaining walls would be needed to not impact
the structural integrity of the existing retaining walls surrounding the Bayridge Park
community. Given that this is a temporary project, this alternative was deemed
infeasible.
7. Additional locations along Country Club Drive were considered providing a greater
separation from 94 Hartford Drive. Unfortunately, the landscape parkway was either
too narrow to accommodate the facility or too steep, requiring significant grading that
would impact the condition of the Bayridge Park community and structural integrity of
the existing retaining walls surrounding the community.
8. Alternative locations were considered within the Bayridge Park community within
landscaped areas that provided adequate building separation from residents. These
areas would require significant removal of existing trees within the community and the
placement of the treatment system building will cause a disruption to existing drainage
and creek beds. Additionally, placement of the treatment system building in these
areas will create heavy visual impacts within the community and remove much needed
parking for the residents.
9. In total, seven options were considered for the location of the soil vapor extraction
system where the factors included: disruption to the neighborhood, proximity to
homes, impact on parking, permitting complexity, implementation complexity, and
power connection complexity. These factors were reviewed on a scale from low,
medium, high, to infeasible. Six of the options encountered infeasibilities due to either
impact on parking, permitting complexity, implementation complexity, or power
connection complexity. Due to these infeasibilities, the location adjacent to 94 Hartford
Drive was selected.
Finding:
C. The subject lot is adequately served by streets or highways having sufficient width
and improvements to accommodate the kind and quantity of traffic that the limited
duration use would or could reasonably be expected to generate;
Facts in Support of Finding:
1. The proposed treatment system building will be located adjacent to an existing private
street, which is an entryway into the One Ford Road community. The building location
is within an existing sloped and landscaped area that will not interfere with any
circulation drive aisles.
2. The soil vapor extraction and treatment system will require ongoing on -site monitoring
and maintenance that will consist of one or two field staff visiting the site approximately
once a month to collect samples and perform maintenance as needed. No large
commercial vehicles are required for monthly monitoring and maintenance and no
impact or increase in traffic is expected.
3. Carbon changeouts that require a vacuum truck and one truck trailer and boom lift
attachment parked on Country Club Drive are to take place two times per year for four
to six hours at a time. This routine maintenance has a low frequency and will not
completely obstruct the traffic circulation on Country Club Drive. Country Club Drive
is a private street in a private community and is not subject to additional permits from
Public Works. The Bayridge Park Homeowner's Association and One Ford Road
Homeowner's Association will be notified at least seven days before maintenance.
Finding:
D. Adequate temporary parking to accommodate vehicular traffic to be generated by the
limited duration use would be available either on -site or at alternate locations
acceptable to the City Council; and
Fact in Support of Finding:
1. Planning Area 8 of the Aeronutronic Ford Planned Community (PC-24) Zoning District
requires a minimum of two guest parking spaces per cluster unit development where
cluster unit development is defined as a combination or arrangement of attached or
detached dwellings and their accessory structures on contiguous or related building
sites. As conditioned, field staff performing on -site monitoring and maintenance will
utilize the on -site guest parking spaces within the Bayridge Park Community during
monthly visits.
2. Fact 3 in support of finding C is incorporated here by reference.
Finding:
E. The limited duration use is consistent with all applicable provisions of the General
Plan, any applicable specific plan, the Municipal Code, and other City regulations.
Facts in Support of Finding:
1. The limited term permit would allow the limited duration use to deviate from setback
requirements and building separation requirements of the PC-24 Zoning District
pursuant to Section 20.52.040 (Limited Term Permits) of the NBMC.
2. The temporary treatment system building with an approximate one-year duration is
conditioned to comply with all other applicable provisions of the General Plan,
Municipal Code, and other City regulations.
3. The treatment system building is conditioned to comply with all applicable provisions
of the City's allowable exterior noise level. Condition of Approval Nos. 17 and 18 have
been added requiring an acoustic audit of the prefabricated building and treatment
system unit running at its maximum capacity prior to installation, and a subsequent
audit after installation.
EXHIBIT "B"
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
Planning Division
The development shall be in substantial conformance with the approved site plan,
floor plans, and building elevations stamped and dated with the date of this approval
(except as modified by applicable conditions of approval).
2. The Project is subject to all applicable City ordinances, policies, and standards
unless specifically waived or modified by the conditions of approval.
3. The Applicant shall comply with all federal, state, and local laws. A material
violation of any of those laws in connection with the use may be caused the
revocation of this limited term permit.
4. This Limited Term Permit may be modified or revoked by the Zoning Administrator
if determined that the proposed uses or conditions under which it is being operated
or maintained are detrimental to the public health, welfare or materially injurious to
property or improvements in the vicinity or if the property is operated or maintained
to constitute a public nuisance.
5. This Limited Term Permit shall expire twelve (12) months from the date of final
issuance of the building permit unless an extension of up to one (1) additional period
of 12 months is granted by the Zoning Administrator in compliance with Section
20.54.060 (Time Limits and Extensions) of the Zoning Code. A letter requesting the
extension shall be submitted to the Planning Division no later than thirty (30) days
before the expiration date of this permit.
6. Upon completion of this soil remediation project, the applicant is required to obtain a
demolition permit from the City's Building Division and the site shall be returned to its
former conditions prior to construction.
7. The treatment system building shall be designed with a gable roof and provide siding
painted to match colors that are architecturally compatible with surrounding
residential units.
8. Maintenance vehicles shall utilize residential guest spaces within the Bayridge Park
community with approval from the Bayridge Park Homeowner's Association when
working at the soil vapor extraction system and treatment facility.
9. Maintenance requiring large commercial vehicles shall be permitted to park on
Country Club Road no more than two (2) times per calendar year unless otherwise
required for health and safety. The applicant shall notify the Bayridge Park
Homeowner's Association and the One Ford Road Homeowner's Association in
writing at least seven (7) days before performing maintenance.
10. Prior to the issuance of building permits, the A/C unit serving 94 Hartford shall be
relocated so that it does not interfere with the building separation between the
prefabricated building and the residential unit.
11. Prior to the issuance of building permits, the project plans shall be modified to
demonstrate that any disturbed landscape areas shall be replanted with water -
efficient landscaping by Chapter 14.17 (Water Efficient Landscaping).
12. Prior to the issuance of a final building permit, the applicant shall obtain approval
for a Permit to Construct (P/C) from the South Coast Quality Air Management
District.
13. Any change in operational characteristics, expansion in the area, or other
modification to the approved plans, shall require additional review from the
Planning Division and may require an amendment to this Limited Term Permit or
the processing of a new Limited Term Permit.
14. A copy of the Resolution, including conditions of approval Exhibit "A" shall be
incorporated into the Building Division and field sets of plans before issuance of
the building permits.
15. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, the applicant shall submit a landscape
and irrigation plan prepared by a licensed landscape architect. These plans shall
demonstrate the restoration of surrounding landscaping to provide further
screening for the treatment system building.
16. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, the applicant shall pay any unpaid
administrative costs associated with the processing of this application to the
Planning Division.
17. The treatment system unit shall be constructed off -site and prior to the
transportation of the prefabricated treatment system unit to the project site and
after installation of the structure, an acoustic audit shall be performed to ensure
that the noise level observed at the exterior of the structure meets the allowable
exterior noise standards of Chapter 10.26 and other applicable noise control
requirements of the Newport Beach Municipal Code. The results of the acoustic
audit shall be submitted to the Planning Division prior to final inspection of the
building permit.
18. All noise generated by the proposed use shall comply with the provisions of
Chapter 10.26 and other applicable noise control requirements of the Newport
Beach Municipal Code. The maximum noise shall be limited to no more than
depicted below for the specified periods unless the ambient noise level is higher:
Between the hours of 7:00 AM
and 10:00 PM
Between the hours of 10:00
PM and 7:00 AM
Location
Interior
Exterior
Interior
Exterior
Residential Property
45dBA
55dBA
40dBA
50dBA
Residential Property located within
100 feet of a commercial prope
45dBA
60dBA
45dBA
50dBA
Mixed Use Property
45dBA
60dBA
45dBA
50dBA
Commercial Property
N/A
65dBA
N/A
60dBA
19. Should the property be sold or otherwise come under different ownership, any
future owners or assignees shall be notified of the conditions of this approval by
either the current business owner, property owner, or leasing agent.
20. Construction activities shall comply with Section 10.28.040 of the Newport Beach
Municipal Code, which restricts hours of noise -generating construction activities
that produce noise to between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., Monday
through Friday, and 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on Saturday. Noise -generating
construction activities are not allowed on Sundays or Holidays.
21. This approval shall expire and become void unless exercised within 24 months from
the actual date of review authority approval, except where an extension of time is
approved in compliance with the provisions of Title 20 Planning and Zoning of the
Newport Beach Municipal Code.
22. The applicant shall obtain all necessary permits or authorization from the Regional
Water Quality Control Board and the South Coast Air Quality Management District.
The project shall be designed, implemented, operated, and maintained in
accordance with said permits or authorization from both agencies.
23. To the fullest extent permitted by law, the applicant shall indemnify, defend and hold
harmless the City, its City Council, its boards and commissions, officials, officers,
employees, and agents from and against any claims, demands, obligations,
damages, actions, causes of action, suits, losses, judgments, fines, penalties,
liabilities, costs, and expenses (including without limitation, attorney's fees,
disbursements, and court costs) of every kind and nature whatsoever which may
arise from or in any manner relate (directly or indirectly) to City's approval of
Aeronutronic Ford Soil Vapor Remediation including, but not limited to,
Limited Term Permit (PA2022-0180). This indemnification shall include, but not be
limited to, damages awarded against the City, if any, costs of suit, attorney's fees,
and other expenses incurred in connection with such claim, action, causes of action,
suit or proceeding whether incurred by the applicant, City, and/or the parties initiating
or bringing the such proceeding. The applicant shall indemnify the City for all of the
City's costs, attorneys' fees, and damages that which City incurs in enforcing the
indemnification provisions outlined in this condition. The applicant shall pay to the
City upon demand any amount owed to the City under the indemnification
requirements prescribed in this condition.
Fire Department
24. A three (3)-foot wide walkway shall be provided on at least one (1) side of the lot
from Country Club Drive for Fire Department access.
Building Division
25. The Applicant is required to obtain all applicable permits from the City's Building
Division and Fire Department. The construction plans must comply with the most
recent, City -adopted version of the California Building Code.
26. A list of "good housekeeping" practices will be incorporated into the long-term post -
construction operation of the site to minimize the likelihood that pollutants will be
used, stored, or spilled on the site that could impair water quality. These may
include frequent parking area vacuum truck sweeping, removal of wastes or spills,
limited use of harmful fertilizers or pesticides, and the diversion of stormwater away
from potential sources of pollution (e.g., trash receptacles and parking structures).
The Stage 2 WQMP shall list and describe all structural and non-structural BMPs.
In addition, the WQMP must also identify the entity responsible for the long-term
inspection, maintenance, and funding for all structural (and if applicable Treatment
Control) BMPs.
Electrical, Mechanical, and Plumbing Division
27. All exhaust air shall terminate outside of the treatment system building in
accordance with the requirements of California Mechanical Code 502.0.
28. Discharged liquid waste or sewage shall be connected properly to the drainage
system of the premises in accordance with the requirements pursuant to California
Plumbing Code, Chapter 7.
29. Prior to issuance of a building permit, the applicant shall ensure the location of the
exhaust is adequately sited away from any residential building openings.
Public Works Division
30. Prior to the start of construction, the applicant shall obtain an encroachment permit
and enter into an encroachment agreement and approved as to form by the City
Attorney's Office for the installation of the treatment system building.
31. The building foundation shall be constructed only of a slab and shall not be
constructed with stem walls or deepened footings.