HomeMy WebLinkAboutSS3 & SS4 - SS3 & SS4 - General Plan Update - Policy Meeting 2CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
Agenda Item No. ss3i5b,}-
October 25, 2005
Study Session
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FROM: Gregg B. Ramirez, Senior Planner
(949) 644 -3219, g ramirez C@city.newport- beach.ca.us
SUBJECT: General Plan Update — Policy Meeting No. 2
RECOMMENDATION
Review the draft General Plan goals and policies related to the Natural Resources and
Recreation Elements.
DISCUSSION
Attached for your review are underlined /° #ke-g� versions of the draft Natural
Resources and Recreation Elements of the General Plan that depict recommendations
made by GPAC to the originally suggested staff language. Both elements contain a
series of goals and policies that provide the City with long term guidance in relation to
each of the topic areas.
Environmental Review
An Environmental Impact Report (EIR) is being prepared as part of the General Plan
Update process.
Public Notice
Notice of this meeting was provided with a display advertisement published in the Daily
Pilot, and the agenda for this meetings which was posted at City Hall and on the city
website.
Prepared by:
Gregg Rarhirez, 5enior Planne
Attachments:
A. Draft Natural Resources Element
B. Draft Recreation Element
General Plan Update — Policy Meeting No.2
October 25, 2005
Page 2
Submitted by:
Sharon Wood, Assistant City Manager
Attachment A
Draft Natural Resources
Natural Resources
INTRODUCTION
The primary objective of the Natural Resources Element is to provide direction regarding the
conservation, development, and utilization of natural resources. It identifies Newport Beach's
natural resources and policies for their preservation, development, and wise use. This element
addresses: water supply (as a resource) and water quality, air quality, terrestrial and marine
biological resources, open space, archaeological and paleontological resources, mineral resources,
visual resources, and energy.
A commitment to sustainable development through the efficient use and conservation of natural
resources is important to meet the needs of current and future residents of Newport Beach.
Commitment to conservation secures ongoing availability of finite resources such as an ample
supply of safe water, diversity of biological resources, and available energy resources. This
assurance contributes substantially to the physical and psychological health and well-being of the
community and strengthens the vitality of the local and regional economic base.
CONTEXT
Water Supply
Water supply is an important resource that needs to be used efficiently. Water service within
Newport Beach is provided by the City, Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD), and Mesa
Consolidated Water District (Mesa). Generally, Newport Beach provides water service to
approximately 13.5 square miles of the City; IRWD serves approximately nine square miles; and
Mesa serves less than one square mile.
Domestic water for the City is supplied by both groundwater and imported surface water.
Currently, about 75 percent of the water supplied to both the City and Mesa's service area is from
groundwater from the Orange County Groundwater Basin (administered by the Orange County
Water District or OCWD), and the remaining 25 percent of water supply is provided by the
Metropolitan Water District (AM), which delivers surface water imported from the Colorado
River and State Water Project. This ratio can change year to year based on the OCWD's
administration of the Basin's supply. Approximately 50 percent of IRWD's current water supply
is purchased from MWD, with the remaining 50 percent coming from groundwater.
The future supply projection assumes that the City will continue to produce groundwater and
purchase local water from MWD, which is projected to meet 100 percent of the City's imported
water needs until the year 2010. Beyond that, improvements associated with the State Water
Project supply, additional local projects, conservation, and additional water transfers would be
needed to adequately provide surface water to the City. OCWD projects that there would be
sufficient groundwater supplies to meet any future demand requirements in Newport Beach.
IRWD's treated and clear groundwater supplies are also expected to be a significant source of
potable water supply in the future. MWD water will be required for supplemental supply as well
as peak and emergency conditions.
NATURAL RESOURCES — DRAFT, 10)20105
In an effort to effectively manage water resources, the City's service area participates in regional
water management programs that assist in the development of resource mixes that balance water
supply sources and meet future local and regional water requirements. In addition, all service
providers focus on demand management efforts that promote efficient water use and effective
management of imported and local water supplies through a variety of water conservation
programs.
The City also began purchasing recycled water from OCWD and IRWD in 1999, and has
identified and approached all cost - effective end users in the City that could potentially use
recycled water, and uses a combination of incentives to encourage recycling. The City has
maximized opportunities for end users of recycled water and could only increase users if a
neighboring water agency provided the reclaimed water to the City. Both Mesa and IRWD
encourage water recycling as well. Currently, reclaimed water makes up 20 percent of IRWD's
total water supply.
Water Quality
Newport Beach's greatest resources are its coastline and bay. Urban runoff from the surrounding
watershed impacts not only the biological diversity and functionality of Newport Bay and the
surrounding coastal waters, but also its water quality. This runoff includes various pollutants,
such as fecal materials from pets, oil and grease, fertilizers, and other urban-based pollutants. The
City has traditionally been concerned regarding these issues and has embarked on a number of
programs to improve its quality.
Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs). Newport Bay receives urban runoff from the
Newport Bay watershed, and is designated as "water quality- limited" for four impairments under
the federal Clean Water Act's Section 303(4). Being "water qualit}=limited" means that a water
body is "not reasonably expected to attain or maintain water quality standards" without additional
regulation. The law requires that US EPA develop TMDLs for each impaired water body in the
nation, which specifies the maximum amount of a pollutant that a waterbody can receive and still
meet water quality standards. A TMDL may also include a plan for bringing an impaired water
body back within standards. TMDLs have been developed for the following substances in
Newport Beach: sediment, nutrients, fecal cohform, and toxic pollutants.
National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). Additionally, Newport Beach
operates a municipal separate storm sewer system (364) permit under the NPDES. MS4 permits
require an aggressive water quality ordinance, specific municipal practices, and the use of best
management practices (BMPs) in many development - related activities to further reduce the
amount of contaminants in urban runoff. MS4 permits also require local agencies to
cooperatively develop a public education campaign to inform people about what they can do to
protect water quality.
Sanitary Sewer Overflows. Newport Beach owns and operates a wastewater collection system
that collects residential and commercial wastewater and transports it for treatment to the Orange
County Sanitation District. Portions of the City receive wastewater service from IRWD.
Residences and businesses hook up private lateral lines to the City's collection lines. Private and
public lines and the City's pump stations have the potential to cause sanitary sewer overflows
(SSOs), which may lead to several beach closures in and around Newport Beach each year. Most
SSOs in the area are caused by line blockages from grease and root clogs, or maintenance failures
NATURAL RESOURCES — DRAFT, 10120105 2
of plumbing associated with pump stations. The City regulates the disposal of grease and other
insoluble waste, and follows a defined Sewer System Master Plan to replace or reline older
wastewater lines and upgrade pump stations.
Air Quality
Newport Beach is located within the South Coast Air Basin (Basin), named so because its
geographical formation is that of a basin, with the surrounding mountains trapping the air and its
pollutants in the valleys or basins below. Due to the typical daily wind pattern, much of the Basin
is flushed of high levels of air pollutants on most spring and early summer days. From late
summer through the winter months, the flushing is less pronounced because of lighter wind
speeds.
Mobile sources account for the majority of the air pollutant emissions within the Basin. Both the
Federal and State governments have established ambient air quality standards for outdoor
concentrations of various pollutants in order to protect public health. The South Coast Air
Quality Management District ( SCAQMD) is responsible for bringing air quality within the Basin
into conformity with the national and state standards.
In an effort to monitor the various concentrations of air pollutants throughout the Basin, the
SCAQMD has divided the region into 27 source receptor areas (SRAs). Newport Beach is located
within SRA 18, which encompasses the North Coastal Orange County area. The air pollutants for
which national and state standards have been promulgated and which are most relevant to air
quality planning and regulation include ozone, carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO),
and sulfur dioxide (SO). As of 2003, SRA 18 did not exceed state or national standards for any
criteria pollutant monitored.
Toxic air contaminants are also a concern in the air basins, but are different than the "criteria"
pollutants listed above in that ambient air quality standards have not been established for them,
largely because there are hundreds of air toxics and their effects on health tend to be local rather
than regional. These contaminants include chemical substances that may be emitted from a
variety of common sources including gasoline stations, motor vehicles, dry cleaners, painting and
industrial operations, etc.
Land use patterns and density of development affect the amount of air pollutants that are
generated by communities. Newport Beach is a low-density community, where the distance
between uses is greater than in high- density communities. As a result, there are fewer public
transportation routes and vehicles, and an increase in the number of motor vehicle trips and
associated air pollutant emissions. Newport Beach is also a jobs -rich City, which increases the
potential for emissions to be generated as employees or residents have to commute long
distances to and from their homes and work
The City's Municipal Code does address air quality by establishing a special fund to receive
revenue distributed by the South Coast Air Quality Management District ( SCAQMD). SCAQMD
imposes an additional vehicle registration fee, of which the City is eligible to receive a portion, to
implement mobile source air pollution reduction programs.
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Aircraft Pollution
Aircraft operations at the John Wayne Airport contribute air pollutants that affect residents and
visitors of Newport Beach. Specifically, aircraft engines emit water vapor, carbon dioxide, small
amounts of nitrogen oxides (NOx), hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, sulfur gases, and soot and
metal particles formed by the high temperature combustion of jet fuel during flight. NOx
emissions are a precursor to the formation of ground -level ozone, also known as smog. Ozone
affects human pulmonary and respiratory health. Also, NOx reacts in the atmosphere to form
secondary particulate matter (PN z.), which also causes detrimental health effects. In addition,
NOx, ozone, and PM adversely affect the environment in various ways including visibility
impairment, crop damage, and acid rain.
Aircraft engine emissions prescribed by the Intematioml Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
were adopted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for the United States in 1997. The
City of Newport Beach does not have any specific regulations governing aircraft engine
emissions.
Biolo0cal Resources
A variety of diverse, valuable, and sensitive biological resources occur within the City of Newport
Beach. The terrestrial and marine resources that are present in the City are described below.
Terrestrial Resources
Many plant habitats can be found in Newport Beach that includes scrub, chaparral, grassland, and
riparian habitats. Additionally, Newport Beach contains veinal pools, seeps, and wet meadows.
Other plant habitats present in Newport Beach include annual grasslands, mderal areas that are
generally a result of disturbances caused by humans, and ornamental landscaping that consist of
introduced trees, shrubs, flowers, and turf grass.
Sensitive Terrestrial Species
The California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) California Natural Diversity Database
(CNDDB) and the California Native Plant Society's Electronic Inventory of Rare and
Endangered Vascular Plants of California identifies occurrences of federal- or State -listed or
proposed endangered or threatened species, Federal Species of Concern, species categorized as
Federal Species of Concern, California Species of Concem, or otherwise sensitive species or
habitat that may occur within or in the immediate vicinity of Newport Beach. These species are
protected under state and federal regulations. The databases indicate that there are three listed
plant species that occur or have the potential to occur within the City of Newport Beach: San
Fernando Valley spineflower, salt marsh bird's beak, and Crownbeard.
Eleven listed wildlife species occur or have the potential to occur within the City of Newport
Beach: San Diego fairy shrimp, Tidewater goby, California black rail, light - footed clapper rail,
western snowy plover, California least tem, southwestern willow flycatcher, coastal California
gnatcatcher, least Bell's vireo, Belding's savannah sparrow, and pacific pocket mouse.
In addition, other sensitive species include 27 sensitive wildlife species and 24 sensitive plant
species that occur or potentially occur within the Newport Beach area.
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Marine Resources
The marine resources of the City and surrounding ocean waters are very diverse. They include
plants and animals of matches and wetlands living in Upper Newport Bay, the developed
charnels, beaches, and hardscape of Lower Newport Bay (Newport Harbor), and the intertidal
and subtidal landforms (sandy beaches, rocky intertidal, sandy subtidal, and subtidal reefs) along
the coast of Newport Beach between the Santa Ana River and the boundary between the City
and Laguna Beach. Many of these areas are considered wetland habitat by the State of California
and federal wetland definitions are protected by a no-net loss wetlands policy
Sensitive Marine Species
Several species of marine mammals are present in the waters near the shore along the Newport
coastline. All marine mammals are protected by the Maine Manurial Protection Act. Protected
marine mammals that are most likely to occur in the City are: California sea lion, Harbor seal,
California gray whale, Killer whale, Common dolphin, Pacific white sided dolphin, and Dall's
porpoise.
Eelgrass (zcstera maim), a flowering, marine vascular plant, is considered a sensitive marine
resource due to its nursery function for invertebrates and fishes, and because it is considered
critical foraging habitat for the federal- and State - listed California least tem. Eelgrass is protected
by the Southern California Eelgrass Mitigation Policy, which requires impacts to this species be
avoided, minimized or compensated.
Other sensitive marine resources include eelgrass restoration areas, Giant kelp, California
Grunion, and California halibut.
Environmental Study Areas
Undeveloped areas supporting natural habitats that may be capable of supporting sensitive
biological resources within the City are also referred to as Environmental Study Areas (ESAs) by
the Local Coastal Plan. An ESA may support species and habitats that are sensitive and rare
within the region or may function as a migration corridor for wildlife. The portions of the ESAs
within the Coastal Zone that contain sensitive or rare species are referred to as Environmentally
Sensitive Habitat Areas (ESHAs), as defined by the California Coastal Act. ESHAs are areas in
which "plant or animal life or their habitats are either rare or are especially valuable because of
their special nature or role in an ecosystem that could easily be disturbed or degraded by human
activities and developments." The Coastal Act requires that ESHAs be protected against any
significant disruption of habitat values. Only uses dependent on those resources are allowed
within ESHAs and adjacent development must be sited and designed to prevent impacts that
would significantly degrade the ESHA and must be compatible with the continuance of the
ESHA
There are 28 identified ESAs within the City of Newport Beach: (1) Semeniuk Slough, (2) North
Star Beach, (3) West Bay, (4) Upper Newport Bay State Marine Park (LAPEco '
Resery e), (5) De Anza Bayside Marsh Peninsula, (6) San Diego Creek, (7) East Bluff Remnant,
(8) Mouth of Big Canyon, (9) Newporter North, (10) Buck Gully, (11) Morning Canyon,
(12) Newport Beach Marine Life Refuge, (13) Castaways, (14) Banning Ranch, (15) Newport
Coast Open Space, (16) Los Trancos, Pelican Hill, (17) Ridge Park (18) Irvine Coast Marine Life
Refuge, (19) Newport Harbor Entrance Channel, (20) Bonita Canyon Creek Watershed, (21) San
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Joaquin Reservoir, (22) Arroyo Park., (23) Coyote Canyon, (24) MacArthur and Bison,
(25) MacArthur and San Miguel, (26) MacArthur and San Joaquin Hills, (27) Spyglass Hill,
(28) and Non - Coastal Buck Gully. Many of these sites contains one or more sensitive plant
communities, and many species of wildlife. Some of the ESAs also contain endangered species of
plants and animals. Most of these ESAs are protected as parks, conservation areas, nature
preserves, and other open space areas. However, each of these ESAs are subjected to various
threats from the surrounding urban environment that include polluted water quality, traffic,
noise, public access, development encroachment, erosion and sedimentation, dredging or filling,
stormwater runoff, invasive species, and feral animals.
Newport Harbor
Newport Harbor is home to valuable habitat such as eelgrass and mudflats that support a wide
range of species, and also provides the public with recreational boating opportunities. There is a
need to protect the biological habitat, and continue to serve the needs of the recreational boating
community by ensuring compatibility between these uses of Newport Harbor. The City believes
the best way to meet this objective is to develop a comprehensive plan for the management of
the Harbor, with the support and cooperation of the County of Orange, US National Fish and
Wildlife Service, National Marine Fisheries Service, US Army Corps of Engineers, California
Coastal Commission, Regional Water Quality Control Board, recreational boating community,
environmental community, and public.
Upper Newport Bay
The City Council has consistently supported the concept of developing, in cooperation with
DFG and the County of Change, a facility on Shellmaker Island that would serve as a center for
water quality and ecosystem education as well as water quality testing and research. The proposed
facility, Back Bay Science Center (BBSQ, includes a Count ),operated water quality lab, facilities
for DFG personnel involved in the management of the Upper Newport Bay Stattiviarine Park
(UN Ecological Reserve), space and exhibits for estuarine, ecosystem and water quality
education and research programs, a wetland demonstration marsh and ecological interpretive
stations. The City has taken the lead role in the planning /design of the Back Bay Science Center
using Oil Spill Settlement Proceeds designated for that purpose. The City, DFG, County, and
UCI have entered into a cooperative agreement that identifies the maintenance and operational
responsibilities of the parties involved.
The Upper Newport Bay State Marine Park (Ecological ReservelUN, one of few remaining
estuaries in Southern California, is home to nearly 200 species of birds, including several
endangered species, as well as numerous species of mammals, fish, and plants. It UNBMP -is an
important stopover for migrating birds on the Pacific Flyway and up to 30,000 birds can be seen
here on any day during the winter months. The Upper Newport Bay State Marine Park
(Ecological Reserve)UNBIv1P is contiguous to 140 acres of County owned uplands on the north
and northwest that was, in 2000, designated as the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve and
which includes an educational facility known as the Muth Center.
The Upper Newport Bay State Marine Park (Ecological Reserve %TNB is an extremely
valuable natural resource that must be carefully managed to (a) protect and enhance the habitat of
the endangered species; (b) protect and enhance the various ecologies within and adjacent to the
State Marine PariiUNBI&; (0 ensure that the public's access to and use of the State Marine Park
NATURAL RESOURCES — DRAFT, 10120105
i -does not adversely impact the flora or fauna; (d) maximize the public's understanding
and awareness of the resource and recreational value of the State Marine Park lam; and
(e) promote direct community involvement in resource protection and enhancement.
Natural Comminutes Conservation Plan (NCCP)
In July of 1996, the City became a signatory agency in the Orange County Central- Coastal NCCP
Subregional Plan. The plan covers nearly 38,000 acres in coastal southern California and is a
collaboration of federal and State resource agencies, local governments, special districts and
private property owners. The NCCP uses a multi- species habitat conservation approach rather
than a species specific approach resulting in the preservation of some of the most valuable native
habitats while freeing other properties for development. As a signatory agency, the City is
responsible for enforcing mitigation measures and other policies identified in the NCCP /Habitat
Conservation Plan Implementation Agreement for properties located within the City Limit that
are part of the NCCP Subregional Plan.
Open Space Resources
Open space may be defined as areas generally free from development or developed with low
intensity uses that respect the natural environmental characteristics. Open space is generally non-
urban in character and may have utility for the following: park and recreation purposes;
conservation of land, water, or other natural resources; or for historic or scenic purposes. Most
of the City's open space resources are located along the coast and in the eastern half of the City.
Newport Beach's open space resources consist of undeveloped areas such as the Environmental
Study Areas as described above, the Newport Bay, and Newport Harbor. Other resources include
the City's many undeveloped canyons and hillsides located primarily in the Newport Coast area.
The beaches, parks, and the Crystal Cove State park also represent some other open space
resources. Some of these resources are not preserved as parks or dedicated open spaces;
however, local, State, and federal regulations help protect, preserve, and restore lands . containing
hillsides, sensitive biological resources, coastal beaches, and sensitive coastal bluffs.
Circulation and Improvement and Open Space Agreement (CIOSA)
Some of the City's open space areas consist of dedicated lands through the CIOSA. This
agreement is between the City of Newport Beach and The Irvine Company, and has allowed
building entitlements for The Irvine Company in exchange for payments of required proposed
projects, an interest free loan, and land for open space and a potential senior housing site for the
City. The amount of open space land dedication was substantially more than what would have
been required under the City's Park Dedication Ordinance.
Fer�Six sites have been dedicated under CIOSA in Newport Beach, two of which e3dst as open
space araasand include: Back Bay View Park. Newport Village (Newport Center Pad), Freeway
Reservation, Upper Castaways. Harbor Coast and Newporter Knoll Gmfid —Grant Deeds.
Another site, located at Jamboree Road and MacArthur Boulevard will also be dedicated as open
space upon issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy for final CIOSA project.
Archaeological and Paleontological Resources
Fossils in the central Santa Ana Mountains represent the oldest formations in Orange County at
145 to 175 million years old. Changes in geological land formations over time, brought upon by
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tectonic activity, have resulted in a mix of aquatic and terrestrial fossils underlying the City. The
Miocene -age rock units (26 million years ago [mya] to 7 mya), particularly in the Newport Coast
area, are considered to be of high- orderpaleontological significance (6 to 9 on a scale of 1 to 10).
Other deposits found in the Newport Beach area include a variety of marine mammals, sea birds,
mollusks, and a variety of vertebrate animals typically associated with the Ice Age (2.5 mya to
15,000 years ago). Local paleontological sites, particularly near the Castaways, have yielded fossils
of Ice Age horses, elephants, bison, antelopes, and dire wolves. Also, a number of localities in the
portions of the Vaqueros formation that underlie the Newport Coast area have yielded a variety
of invertebrate and vertebrate fossils, and are also considered to be of high -order paleontological
significance. Other areas with significant fossils and known paleontological deposits include the
Banning Ranch area, which contains at least fourteen documented sites of high significance, and
Fossil Canyon, in the North Bluffs area, which is considered a unique paleontological locality.
Newport Beach also contains many significant archaeological sites. The Upper Newport Bay area
has yielded some evidence for the earliest human occupation of Change County and date to
about 9,500 years before present. Over fifty sites have been documented in the Newport Beach
area, including the Newport Coast area and Banning Ranch, many yielding substantial
information regarding the prehistory of the City and County, and have included human burials.
At least two and possibly three distinct cultural groups inhabited the area, including the Tongva
and Acjachemem tribes, although the boundaries of their tribal territories are unclear.
Mineral Resources
Fliistorically, drilling for oil in this part of Orange County began as early as 1904, and oil
production became the primary mineral extraction activity in and around the City Two separate
production and reserve areas exist within the City and its Sphere of Influence: Newport oil field,
which lies within the City limits and West Newport oil field, which is located in the Banning
Ranch area. The Newport Oil Field is located in the western portion of the City, and is estimated
to have oil reserves of approximately 35 million barrels (Mbbl) and produces approximately 55
billion cubic feet of gas. The West Newport oil field produces approximately 20.5 billion cubic
feet of gas with a daily production per oil well of approximately 5 bbl. Estimated oil reserves
within this field are approximately 728 Mbbl.
The concentration of active wells lies within the West Newport and Newport production areas.
As of 2002, there were approximately 68 wells (plus four injection wells) producing oil and
natural gas within the City - three gas wells in the Newport production area (out of 68 total oil
and gas wells) and 65 oil wells in the West Newport area (out of 862 total wells). Of the 65 wells
in the West Newport area, 16 are directionally drilled from onshore to offshore and 29 are
currently not used for production but have not been abandoned (classified as "shut in ''). Fifteen
(not counting one injection well) of the 68 producing wells are operated by the City; 48 are
operated by West Newport Oil Company, three by Hoag Memorial Hospital, and two by South
Coast Oil.
Thirty -three abandoned oil wells are located in numerous sites throughout the City, concentrated
along the northwest boundary. Additionally, other than oil and gas resources, there is no active
mining within the Newport Beach area. Mineral Resource Zones (MRZ) within the City are either
classified as containing no significant mineral deposits W- 1), or the significance of mineral
deposits has not been determined (MRZ -3).
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Section 1401 of the City's Charter does not allow new drilling, or production or refining of oil,
gas, or other hydrocarbon substances within the City. However, the Section does not prohibit
these activities within any area annexed to the City after the effective date of the Charter if these
activities were already in operation. The City's Municipal Code does allow for slant drilling
activities for oil, gas, tar, and other hydrocarbon substances within a designated area of Newport
Beach.
Visual Resources
Visual resources are an important component of the quality of life of any geographic area. The
City of Newport Beach is located in a unique and dynamic physical setting and enjoys views of
the rolling green hills of Crystal Cove State Park to the east, and spectacular ocean views to the
southwest, including those of the open waters of the ocean and bay, sandy beaches, rocky shores,
wetlands, canyons, and coastal bluffs. From higher elevations within the City, views to the north
include the rolling hills of the San Joaquin Corridor, and in the distance, the Santa Ana
Mountains.
Specifically, the City's habitat areas and open spaces are among the contributing visual resources,
including the Semeniuk Slough, North Star Beach, West Bay, Upper Newport Bay State Marine
Park (Ecological Reseimel and DeAnza/Bayside Marsh Peninsula, and San Diego Creek Coastal
views are also provided from a number of streets and highways and, due to the grid street pattern
in West Newport, Balboa Peninsula, Balboa Island, and Corona del Mar, many north -south
tending streets provide view corridors to the ocean and bay.
Coastal canyons and gullies in the eastern portion of the City known as the Newport
Coast/Ridge area, typify the topographic landforms that render significant views of the City,
including Buck Gully, Morning Canyon, Los Trancos, Muddy Canyon, and Pelican Hill. The
City's coastal bluffs along the shoreline, facing the wetlands, and surrounding Upper Newport
Bay are also important scenic resources. Other valuable resources include the City's more than
441 acres of parkland and passive open space, including the Crystal Cove State Park, and State
Route 1, which is identified as Eligible for State Scenic Highway designation.
The City has historically been sensitive to the need to protect and provide access to these scenic
resources and has developed a system of public parks, piers, grails, and viewing areas. The City's
development standards, including bulk and height limits in the area around the bay, have helped
preserve scenic views and regulate the visual and physical mass of structures consistent with the
unique character and visual scale of Newport Beach. Located throughout Newport Beach, the
City's many small "view parks" are intentionally designed to take advantage of significant views.
In addition, the City provides policies in the Municipal Code and Local Coastal Plan that protect
public views, which is defined as views from public vantage points. As for the City's coastal and
other bluffs, while many have been preserved as parkland and other open space, most have been
subdivided and developed over the years, including Newport Heights, Cliff Haven, Irvine
Terrace, and Corona Del Mar.
Energy Conservation
Natural Gras. Southern California Gas Company (SCG) provides natural gas service for the City.
Natural gas is a "fossil fuel" and is a non - renewable resource. Most of the major natural gas
transmission pipelines within the City are owned and operated by SCG. SCG has the capacity and
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resources to deliver gas except in certain situations that are noted in State law. As development
occurs, SCG will continue to extend its service to accommodate development and supply the
necessary gas lines.
Electricity. Electricity is provided on an as- needed basis to customers within existing structures
in the City. Southern California Edison Company (SCE) is the distribution provider for electricity
in Newport Beach. Currently, SCE has no immediate plans for expansion of infrastructure, as
most of the City is built out. However, every year SCE expands and improves existing facilities
according to demand.
GOALS AND POLICIES
Water Supply
Goal NRi Minimized water consumption through conservation methods and other
techniques.
Policy NR1.1 Continue to enforce water conservation measures that limit water usage
during water shortages, prohibit activities that waste water or cause runoff,
and require the use of water- efficient landscaping in conjunction with new
construction projects.
Policy NR1.2 Establish and actively promote use of water conserving devices and
practices in both new construction and major alterations and additions to
existing buildings. This can include the use of rainwater capture, storage,
and reuse facilities.
Policv NR13 Explore the appropriateness o implementing tiered water rates
Policy NR1.34 Explore implementation of alternative conservation measures and
technology as they become available.
Policv NR1.5 Establish educational Programs on water conservation.
Goal NR2 Expanded use of alternative water sources to provide adequate water
supplies for present uses and future growth.
Policy NR2.1 Increase the use of recycled water in the City by continuing to provide
financial incentives, staff assistance, and training opportunities for
customers, and expand recycled water infrastructure and programs, when
feasible.
Policy NR2.2 Use alternative water sources for the City's water supply by implementing
advanced water treatment processes such as brackish groundwater and
seawater desalination programs, when feasible.
Goal NR3 Recharge of groundwater resources.
Policy NR3.1 Require incorporation of natural drainage systems and stormwater
detention facilities into new developments, where appropriate and feasible,
to retain stormwater in order to increase groundwater recharge.
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1.3
Policy NR3.2
Water Quality
Require new development and public improvements to minimize the
creation of and increases in impervious surfaces, especially directly
connected impervious areas, to the maximum extent practicable. Require
redevelopment to increase area of pervious surfaces, where feasible.
Goal NR4
Enhancement and protection of water quality of all natural water bodies,
including coastal waters, creeks, bays, harbors, and wetlands.
Policy NR4.1
Support the development of a model (physical and /or mathematical) of the
Bay and coastline that provides information regarding the nature and extent
of the water quality problem and enables prediction of the effects of
changes on the entire system.
Policy NR4.2
Continue to oppose oil drilling in the offshore area to protect water quality.
Policy NR4.3
Support regulations limiting or banning the use insecticides, fertilizers, and
other chemicals which are shown to be detrimental to water quality.
Policy NR4.4
Promote pollution prevention and elimination methods that minimize the
introduction of pollutants into natural water bodies. [LCP]
Policy NR4.5 Suspend activities and implement appropriate health and safety procedures
in the event that previously unknown groundwater contamination is
encountered during construction. Where site contamination is identified,
implement an appropriate remediation strategy that is approved by the City
and the Department of Toxic Substances Control.
Policy NR4.6 Continue to require all development to comply with the regulations under
the City's municipal separate storm sewer system permit under the
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System.
Policy NR4.7 Require that development not result in the degradation of natural water
bodies. [LCP]
Policy NR4.8 Support and participate in watershed -based runoff reduction, water quality
control, and other planning efforts with the Regional Board, the County of
Orange, and upstream cities. [LCP]
Policy NR4.9 Continue to update and enforce the Newport Beach Water Quality
Ordinance. [LCP]
Policy NR4.10 Develop and maintain a water quality checklist to be used in the permit
review process to assess potential water quality impacts. [LCP]
Policy NR4.11 Require new development applications to Include a Water Quality
Management Plan (WQMP) to minimize runoff from rainfall events during
construction and post -construction. [LCP]
Policy NR4.12 Implement and improve upon best management practices (BMPs) for
residences, businesses, development projects, and City operations. [LCP]
NATURAL RESOURCES — DRAFT, 10120105
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Policy NR4.13 Include site design and source control BMPs in all developments. When the
combination of site design and source control BMPs are not sufficient to
protect water quality as required by the National Pollutant Elimination
System, structural treatment BMPs will be implemented along with site
design and source control measures. [LCP]
Policy NR4,14 Include equivalent BMPs that do not require infiltration, where infiltration of
runoff would exacerbate geologic hazards. [LCP]
Policy NR4 15 Promote the use of natural wetlands to improve water quality.
Policy NR4.-1516 Retain runoff on private property to prevent the transport of pollutants
into recreational waters, to the maximum extent practicable. [LCP]
Policy NR4.4617 Require all street drainage systems and other physical improvements
created by the City, or developers of new subdivisions, to be designed,
constructed, and maintained to minimize adverse impacts on water quality.
Investigate the possibility of treating or diverting Gr -t at::,g street drainage
to minimize impacts to water bodies.
Policy NR4.3718 Require that development be located on the most suitable portion of the
site and designed to ensure the protection and preservation of natural and
sensitive site resources that provide important water quality benefits. [LCP]
Policy NR4.1819 Require that parking lots, and public and private stfeetsrightsof- wa1Lbe
swept- maintained and cleaned as- frequently as-necessary -to remove debris
and contaminated residue. [LCP]
Policy NR4.392_Q Effectively communicate water quality education to residents and
businesses, including the development of a water quality testing lab and
educational exhibits at various educational facilities. [LCP]
Goal NR5 Maintenance of water quality standards through compliance with the
total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) standards.
Policy NR5.1 Continue to develop and implement the TMDLs established by the California
Regional Quality Control Board, Santa Ana Region and guided by the
Newport Bay Watershed Executive Committee (WEC). [LCP]
Policy NR5.2 Secure funding for the Upper Newport Bay Eeesyst`n ecosystem
Resterat+ert re ra ' and long -term funding for successor dredging
projects for Upper and Lower Newport Bay.
Policy NR5.3 Preserve, or where feasible, restore natural hydrologic conditions such that
downstream erosion, natural sedimentation rates, surface flow, and
groundwater recharge function near natural equilibrium states. [LCP]
Policy NR5.4 Require grading/erosion control plans with structural BMPs that prevent or
minimize erosion during and after construction for development on steep
slopes, graded, or disturbed areas. [LCP]
NATURAL RESOURCES— DRAFT, 10120105
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Goal NR6 Minimal adverse effects to water quality from sanitary sewer outflows
(SSOs).
Policy NR6.1 Continue to implement the Sewer System Management Plan and the Sewer
Master Plan. [LCP]
Policy NR6.2 Require waste discharge permits for all food preparation facilities that
produce grease.[LCP]
Policy NR6.3 Continue to renovate all older sewer pump stations and install new
plumbing according to most recent standards. [LCP]
Policy NR6.4 Comply with the Regional Board's Waste Discharge Requirements (WDRs)
associated with the operation and maintenance of the City's sewage
collection system. [LCP]
Air Quality
Goal NR7 Reduced mobile source emissions
Policy NR7.1 Require development of walkable neighborhoods to reduce vehicle trips by
siting amenities such as services, parks, and schools in close proximity to
residential areas especially in the Airport Area, Newport Center, and
Banning Ranch.
Policy NR7.2 Support mixed -use development consisting of commercial or office with
residential uses in accordance with the Land Use Element that increases
the opportunity for residents to live in proximity to jobs, services, and
entertainment.
Policy NR7.3 Support at -work day care facilities, on -site automated banking machines,
and other measures to reduce vehicle -trip generation.
Policy NR7.4 Continue to implement the Transportation Demand Management Ordinance
which promotes and encourages the use of alternative transportation
modes, and provides those facilities such as bicvcle lanes that support such
alternate modes.
Policy NR7.5 Collaborate with local transit agencies to: develop programs and educate
employers about employee rideshare and transit; establish mass transit
mechanisms for the reduction of work - related and non -work related vehicle
trips; and - promote mass transit ridership through careful planning of routes,
headways, origins and destinations and types of vehicles;—and develop bus
shelters. bicycle lanes, and other bicycle facilities.
Policy NR7.6 Encourage synchronization of traffic signals throughout the City and with
adjoining cities and counties to allow free flow of traffic.
Policy NR7.7 Continue implementing the program to replace existing vehicles in the City
fleet with the- cleanest vehicles that are commercially available that -an will
provide needed services.
NATURAL RESOURCES — DRAFT, 10120105
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16 .
Policy NR7.8 Support the development of alternative fuel infrastructure that is available
and accessible to the public, and provide incentives for alternative fuel
vehicles.
Policy NR7 9 Provide education to the-public on mobile sou ce emission reduction
techniaues such as using alternative modes of transportation
Goal NR8 Reduced air pollution emissions from stationary sources.
Policy NR8.1 Support the use of fuel efficient heating equipment and other appliances
sw2.. as ..,.... heaters, swimming ;,vv heaters, refFrgeratcirs, furnaces, and
boiler units.
Policy NR8.2 Require the use of best management practices to minimize pollution and to
reduce source emissions.
Policy NR8.3 Provide incentives to promote siting or to use clean air technologies and
building materials (e.g., fuel cell technologies, renewable energy sources,
UV coatings, hydrogen fuel).
Policy NR8 4 Eliminate the use of blowers by the City end discourage their use on private
property.
Goal NR9 Reduced air pollution emissions from aircraft.
Policy NR9.1 Work with John Wayne Airport to continue efficient airport operations
through high gate utilization and other methods.
Policy NR9.2 Work with John Wayne Airport to encourage development and use of
emission reduction aircraft and other equipment4eFai;s.
Biological Resources
Goal NR10 Protection of sensitive and rare terrestrial and marine resources from
urban development.
PollcY NR101 Be roactive in Protecting terrestrial and marine resources
Policy NR10.12 Continue to cooperate with the state and federal resource protection
agencies and private organizations to protect terrestrial and marine
resources.
Policy NR10.23 Comply with the policies contained within the Orange County Natural
Communities Conservation Plan.
Policy NR10.34 Continue to protect, and prohibit development in, nature preserves,
conservation areas, and designated open space areas in order to minimize
urban impacts upon resources in identified Environmental Study Areas
(ESAs).
Policy NR10.45 Require a site - specific survey and analysis prepared by a qualified biologist
as a filing requirement for any development permit applications where
development would occur within or adjacent to areas identified as an ESA.
NATURAL RESOURCES—DRAFT, 10120105
14
Policy N131O.66 Require that the siting and design of new development, including
landscaping and public access, protect sensitive or rare resources against
any significant disruption of habitat values.
Policy NR1O.67 Limit uses within an area containing any significant or rare biological
resources to only those uses that are dependent on such resources, except
where application of such a limitation would result in a taking of private
property. If application of this policy would likely constitute a taking of
private property, then a non - resource - dependent use shall be allowed on the
property, provided development is Iimited.to the minimum amount
necessary to avoid a taking and the development is consistent with all other
applicable resource protection policies. Public access improvements and
educational, interpretative and research facilities are considered resource
dependent uses.
Policy NR1O.78 Maintain a buffer of sufficient size around significant or rare biological
resources, if present, to ensure the protection of these resources. Require
the use of native vegetation and prohibit invasive plant species within these
buffer areas.
Policy NR1O.99 Shield and direct exterior lighting away from significant or rare biological
resources to minimize impacts to wildlife.
Policy N131O.91O Prepare natural habitat protection regulations for Buck Gully and
Morning Canyon for the purpose of providing standards to ensure both the
protection of the natural habitats in these areas and of private property
rights. Include standards for the placement of structures, native
vegetation /fuel modification buffers, and erosion and sedimentation
control structures.
Policy N131O.1611 Protect the sensitive and rare resources that are known te occur on
Banning Ranch by preserving the site as open space. If future development
Is permitted, concentrate development to protect biological resources and
coastal bluffs, and design structures to not be intrusive on the surrounding
landscape. Require the restoration of any important habitat areas that are
affected by future development.
Policy N131O.1112 Coordinate with County and State resource agencies to monitor
ecological conditions within the Newport Beach Marine Refuge and Irvine
Coast Marine Life Refuge and to implement management programs to
protect these marine refuge areas. Maintain public use of the refuges to the
extent it is consistent with the preservation of intertidal and subtidal
resources.
Policy N131O.1213 Support reforestation programs for giant kelp.
Policy NR10s3vuppeFt the eenstwatien of tide pool exhibits away frem eeean beaehe° to
pram. e ara- edueat:c::w. alic:r.,....e to-the tide peo!s at GOFena del Mar ..
Beaeh and GFystal Cove State Park.
NATURAL RESOURCES — DRAFT, 10120105 15
14
Goal NR11 Protection of eelgrass meadows for their ecological function as a nursery
and foraging habitat within the Newport Bay ecosystem, balanced with
maintenance of Newport Harbor as a recreational boating resource.
Policy NR11.1 Avoid impacts to eelgrass (Zostera marina) to the greatest extent possible.
Mitigate losses of eelgrass in accordance with the Southern California
Eelgrass Mitigation Policy. Encourage the restoration of eelgrass threugheut
in Newport Harbor, where feasible. [LCP]
Policy NR11.2 Continue to cooperate with the County of Orange, the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers, and resource agencies to establish eelgrass restoration sites.
[LCP]
Policy NR11.3 Allow successful eelgrass restoration sites to serve as mitigation sites for
City projects and as a mitigation bank from which eelgrass mitigation
credits will be issued to private property owners for eelgrass removal
resulting from dock and channel dredging projects. [LCP]
Goal NR12 Protection of coastal dune habitats.
Policy NR12.1 Require the removal of exotic vegetation and the restoration of native
vegetation in dune habitat. [LCP]
Policy NR12.2 Design and site recreation areas to avoid impacts to dune habitat areas,
and direct public access away from these resources through methods such
as well- defined footpaths, boardwalks, protective fencing, and signage.
[LCP]
Policy NR12.3 Limit earthmoving of beach sand in dune habitat areas to projects
necessary for the protection of coastal resources and existing development.
[LCP]
Goal NR13 Protection, maintenance, and enhancement of Southern California
wetlands.
Policy NR13.1 Recognize and protect wetlands for their commercial, recreational, water
quality, and habitat value. [LCP]
Policy NR13.2 Require a survey and analysis with the delineation of all wetland areas
when the initial site survey indicates the presence or potential for wetland
species or indicators. Wetland delineations will be conducted in accordance
with the definitions of wetland boundaries established by California
Department of Fish and Game, and /or United States Fish and Wildlife
Service.
Goal NR14 Allowed- dDiking, filling, and dredging of open coastal waters, wetlands,
and estuaries to maintain existing deep water channels and ensure they
remain navigable by boats.
Policy NR14.1 Support and assist in the management of dredging within Newport Bay.
[LCP]
NATURAL RESOURCES — DRAFT, 10120105
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Policy NR14.2 Continue to cooperate with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in their
maintenance and delineation of federal navigational channels at Newport
Harbor in the interest in providing navigation and safety. [LCP]
Policy NR14.3 Continue to secure blanket permits or agreements through the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers and the California Coastal Commission to expedite
permit processing for residential and commercial dock owners in the Bay.
[LCP]
Policy NR14.4 Require that any project that includes diking, filling or dredging of a wetland
or estuary must maintain the functional capacity of the wetland or estuary.
Functional capacity means the ability of the wetland or estuary to be self -
sustaining and to maintain natural species diversity. [LCP]
Policy NR14.5 Require that all structures permitted to encroach into open coastal waters,
wetlands, and estuaries be sited and designed to be consistent with the
natural appearance of the surrounding area. [LCP]
Goal NR15 Proper disposal of dredge spoils to avoid disruption to natural habitats.
Policy NR15.1 Monitor dredging projects within the region to identify opportunities to
reduce disposal costs and utilize dredge spoils for beach nourishment. [LCP]
Policy NR15.2 Participate in regional sediment management by maintaining records of the
number of channelized streams, miles of channelization in streams,
volumes of sediment extracted from stream channels and debris basins,
and the grain size distribution of the extracted sediments. [LCP]
Policy NR15.3 Work with appropriate
agencies to secure sediment disposal site for future dredging projects. [LCP]
Goal NR16 Protection and management of Upper Newport Bay commensurate with
the standards applicable to our nation's most valuable natural
resources.
Pol: 16 1 le Lie. .a Managerrien!�Plan4hat Will provide
approach to management of the resources of Newpe eh-as
g- for - navigation
and continued use of private piers:
Policy NR16.21 Continue support of and secure federal funding for the•Upper Newport Bay
C- ecosystem Rrestoration Prejeet-to restore the Upper Newport Bay to its
optimal ecosystem. [LCP]
Policy NR16.32 Support and implement unified management of the Upper Newport Bay
Nature Preserve and State Marine Park (Ecological Reserve) by
collaborating with Orange County the-and California Department of Fish
and Game, non - profit corporations with resource management expertise
and volunteer organizations to maximize- improve resources management.
implement resource enhancement projects and expand oppoliunities for
and maintain public access, recreation, and education.
NATURAL RESOURCES -- DRAFT, 10120105
17
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Policy NR16 43 Assume responsibility to_ranage operate and maintain the Upper Newport
Bay Nature Preserve, including the Peter and Mary Muth Center, such that
natural resources and public education programs are enhanced using a_
combination of public agency and private sector personnel as well as
volunteers.
Policy NR16.4 Maintain public use of the Upper Newport Bay State Marine Park olo
Reserve) to the extent such use is consistent with the preservation of
sensitive resources.
Policy NR16.5 Ensure that facilities in and around Upper Newport Bay adequately serve as
water quality and estuarine education and research programs.
Goal NR17 Protection of environmental resources in Newport Harbor while
preserving and enhancing public recreational boating opportunities
Policy NR 17.1 Develop a Harbor Area Management Plan that will provide a comprehensive
approach to management of the resources of Newport Bay such as
protection of elgrass and other natural resources dredging for navigation
and continued use of private piers.
Policy NR 17.2 Prepare and fund a joint— CIWCounty study that would: (a) identify the
respective services provided by the City and&swnty in- Newport Harbor• U
determine the cost of those services; (c) identify opportunities for the City
and County to realign resources to provide services at reduced osts• d
identify the sources of revenue available to defray the cost of those
services: (e) identify potentially feasible methods of providing those services
other than with public agency personnel such as of volunteers.
Open Space Resources
Goal NR178 Maintenance of designated open space resources.
Policy NFRI7NR18.1 Protect, conserve, and - maintain and expand the existing open space
areas that define the City's urban form, serve as habitat for many species,
and provide recreational opportunities.
mrrsrn =Lr`
nrwrpmp
Archaeological and Paleontological Resources
Goal NR189 Protection and preservation of Important paleontological and
archaeological resources.
Policy NR189.1 Require new development to protect and preserve paleontological and
archaeological resources from destruction, and avoid and minimize impacts
to such resources. Through planning policies and permit conditions, ensure
the preservation of significant archeological and paleontological resources
and require that the impact caused by any development be mitigated in
accordance with CEQA.
NATURAL RESOURCES—DRAFT, 100105
18
Policy NR189.2 Prepare and maintain sources of information regarding paleontological or
archaeological sites and the names and addresses of responsible
organizations and qualified individuals who can analyze, classify, record,
and preserve paleontological and archaeological findings. [Council Policy
Manual]
Policy NR189.3 Notify cultural organizations, including Native American organizations, of
proposed developments that have the potential to adversely impact cultural
resources. Allow qualif ied representatives of such groups to monitor grading
and /or excavation of development sites. [LCP]
Policy NR189.4 Require new development to donate scientifically valuable paleontological
or archaeological materials to a responsible public or private institution with
a suitable repository, located within Newport Beach or Orange County,
whenever possible. [LCP]
Mineral Resources
Goal NRI%R20 Minimized impacts from oil drilling activities.
Policy NR19NR20.1 Continue to prohibit additional oil extraction activities within the City
limits but allow that existing wells be used, if needed, for water injection
systems that increase oil extraction.
Policy NRJ9NR20.2 Oppose new offshore oil drilling activities.
Policy NR- 19NR20.3 Prohibit on -shore support facilities for off -shore oil drilling.
Policy NR19NR20.4 Encourage consolidation of existing oil and gas activities.
Visual Resources
Goal NR20NR21 Preservation of significant visual resources.
Policy NR26NR21.1 Protect and, where feasible, enhance significant scenic and visual
resources that include open space, mountains, canyons, and ridges from
public vantage points.
Policy NR2ANR21.2 Require new development to restore and enhance the visual quality in
visually degraded areas, where feasible, and provide view easements or
corridors designed to protect public views or to restore public views in
developed areas, where appropriate. [LCP]
Policy N1428NR21.3 Protect and enhance public views from the following roadway
segments, and other locations may be identified in the future:
■ Avocado Avenue from San Joaquin Hills Road to Coast Highway
• Back Bay Drive
• Balboa Island Bridge
• Bayside Drive from Coast Highway to Linda Island Drive
• Bayside Drive at Promontory Bay
• Coast Highway /Santa Ana River Bridge
NATURAL RESOURCES—DRAFT, 10120105
19
V
• Coast Highway /Newport Boulevard Bridge and Interchange
• Coast Highway from Newport Boulevard to Marino Drive (Bayshores)
• Coast Highway /Newport Bay Bridge
• Coast Highway from Jamboree Road to Bayside Drive
• Coast Highway from Pelican Point Drive to city limits
• Eastbluff Drive from Jamboree Road to Backbay Drive
• Irvine Avenue from Santiago Drive to University Drive
• Jamboree Road from Eastbluff Drive /University Drive to State Route 73
• Jamboree Road in the vicinity of the Big Canyon Park
• Jamboree Road from Coast Highway to Bayside Drive
• Lido Isle Bridge
• MacArthur Avenue Boulevard from San Joaquin Hills Road to Coast
Highway
• Marguerite Avenue from San Joaquin Hills Road to Fifth Avenue
• Newport Boulevard from Hospital Road/Westminster Avenue to Via Lido
• Newport Center Drive from Newport Center Drive E/W to Farallon
Drive /Granville Drive
• Newport Coast from Pelican Hill Road North to Coast Highway
• Ocean Boulevard
• Pelican Hills Road South
• San Joaquin Hills Road from Newport Ridge Drive to Spyglass Hill Road
• San Miguel Drive from San Joaquin Hills Road to MacArthur Boulevard
• State Route 73 from Bayview Way to University Drive
• Superior Avenue from Hospital Road to Coast Highway
• University Drive from Irvine Avenue to the Santa Ana—Delhi Channel
• Vista Ridge Road from Ocean Heights to Altezza Drive
Policy PIR29NR21.4 Design and site new development, including landscaping, on the
edges of public view corridors, including those down public streets, to
frame, accent, and minimize impacts to public views. [LCP]
Policy PIR2ANR21.5 Provide public trails, recreation areas, and viewing areas adjacent to
public view corridors, where feasible. [LCP]
Goal NR2NR22 Minimized visual impacts thFough regulatio rom signs and
utilities.
Policy NR212.1 Design and site signs, utilities, and antennas to minimize visual impacts.
Policy NR21;NR22.2 Implement programs to remove illegal signs and amortize legal
nonconforming signs. [LCP]
Policy NR2!NR22.3 Continue programs to remove and underground overhead utilities, in
new development as well as existing neighborhoods. [LCP]
NATURAL RESOURCES — DRAFT, 10120105
20
Goal NR22NR23 Maintain Tthe intensity of development around Newport Bay Isto
be consistent with the unique character and visual scale of Newport
Beach.
Policy NR23NR23.1 Maintain the Shoreline Height Limitation Zone to protect views of the
water. Consider amending the boundary of this Zone where publie views
would not be Impacted.
Policy NR23NR23.2 Continue to regulate the visual and physical mass of structures
consistent with the unique character and visual scale of Newport Beach and
provide view corridors to Newport Bay. [LCP]
Goal NR23NR24 Development respects natural landforms such as coastal bluffs.
Policy NR23NR24.1 Preserve cliffs, canyons, bluffs, significant rock outcroppings, and site
buildings to minimize alteration of the site's natural topography and
preserve the features as a visual resource.
Policy NR23NR24.2 Maintain approved bluff edge setbacks for the coastal bluffs within
the planned communities of Castaways, Eastbluff, Park Newport, Newporter
North (Harbor Cove), and Bayview Landing and neighborhoods from
Jamboree Road to Corona del Mar; north of Bayside Drive, to ensure the
preservation of scenic resources and geologic stability.
Polley NR2 3.3 E :sh bluff .aff tiog setbacks ba t- line—ef- existing
development in eacKoonveoWnakesidentW-neighbo4ioed-eontaining
eeastal bluffs, ineluding these within the eammunities of
NewoeFt IIGIsI RD.OveI .-I. PVT' IIVIGGITITanP Cameo Shores. l TigPllea
m bluff a let.. e.eal.enit
for access oryy _ltr*etufes
Policy 141423NR24.43 Require new planned communities to dedicate or preserve as open
space the coastal bluff face and an area inland from the edge of the coastal
bluff adequate to provide safe public access and to avoid or minimize visual
impacts.
Policy NR243.54 Require all new blufftop development located on a bluff subject to
marine erosion to be set back based on the predominant line of
development. This requirement shall apply to the principal structure and
major accessory structures such as guesthouses and pools. The setback
shall be increased where necessary to ensure safety and stability of the
development.
Policy NR23NR24.65 On bluffs subject to marine erosion, require new accessory structures
such as decks, patios and walkways that do not require structural
foundations to be sited at least 10 feet from the bluff edge. Require
accessory structures to be removed or relocated landward when threatened
by erosion, instability or other hazards.
Policy NR234.7-6 Establish canyon development setbacks based on the predominant
line of existing development for Buck Gully and Morning Canyon. Do not
permit development to extend beyond the predominant line of existing
NATURAL RESOURCES - DRAFT, 10120105
21
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development by establishing a development stringline where a line is drawn
between nearest adjacent corners of existing structures on either side of the
subject property. Establish development stringlines for principle structures
and accessory improvements.
Policy NR234.87 Design and site new development to minimize the removal of native
vegetation, preserve rock outcroppings, and protect coastal resources.
Energy Conservation
Goal NR245 Increased energy efficiency In City facilities and operations and In private
developments.
Policy NR245.1 Develop incentives that encourage the use of energy conservation
strategies by private and public developments.
Policy NR224NR25.2 Promote energy - efficient design features„ ' ^ ^' ^d' ^� ^ ^ ^• ^ ^�' ° +n ^: +°
orientation, use of lied to 010 efing and building materials, and use of
deemduous shade trees and windbreak trees to reduce energy eensumption
fer heating and cooling.
Policy NR24NR25.3 Promote or provide incentives for "Green Building" programs that go
beyond the requirements of Title 24 of the California Administrative Code
and encourage energy efficient design elements as appropriate to achieve
"green building" status.
Policy NR-24NR25.4 Provide incentives for implementing Leadership in Environmental and
Energy Design (LEED) certified building such as fee waivers, bonus
densities, and /or awards recognition programs.
Policy NR24NR25.5 Allow new methane extraction activities to reduce reliance on fossil
fuels.
NATURAL RESOURCES—DRAFT, 10120105
ti�
Attachment 6
Draft Recreation
�sf
Recreation
INTRODUCTION
The City's parks, bicycle and pedestrian trails, recreational facilities, and coastal resources such as
beaches play an important role in the physical, mental, social, and environmental health of
Newport Beach residents. These facilities are important land use components in an urban
environment, providing both visual relief from the built environment and contributing to
residents' quality of life through recreation and aesthetic value.
California State Law requires that recreational issues be discussed in the General Plan. Since
1973, Newport Beach has had a Recreation and Open Space Element that was most recently
amended in 1998. With the update of this General Plan, only policies related to recreation are
included within this element, while open space policies are contained within the Natural
Resources Element.
The primary purpose of the Recreation Element is to ensure that the balance between the
provision of sufficient parks and recreation facilities are appropriate for the residential and
business population of Newport Beach. Specific recreational issues and policies contained in this
Recreation Element include: parks and recreation facilities, recreation programs, shared facilities,
coastal recreation and support facilities, marine recreation, and public access.
CONTEXT
Parks and Recreational Facilities
The City has approximately 278 acres of developed parks. Newport Beach's parklands range in
size from mini -parks such as the Lower Bay Park (0.1 acre) to the 39 -acre Bonita Canyon Sports
Park School facilities also provide indoor and outdoor recreational opportunities in the City,
while greenbelts and open space areas provide passive recreational opportunities or open space
relief. These park and recreation facilities are described below. Additionally, bikeways, jogging
trails, pedestrian trails, recreation trails, and regional equestrian trails are also available in
Newport Beach.
Park Types
Community Park. Community parks serve the entire City and are easily accessible via arterial
roads. Community parks are those with improvements such as community buildings, parking,
swimming, facilities for picnicking, active sports, and other facilities that serve a larger
population. Community Parks may have a particular theme or orientation such as active sports or
aquatic facilities.
Mini Park Mini parks are smaller parks which may take one of two different forms. Most mini
parks are less than one acre in size, serve a quarter -mile radius and are located within a
neighborhood, separate from major or collector roads. Some mini parks serve the entire City and
are located as urban trail heads along major trails or streets.
RECREATION - DRAFT, 10120105 1
_11
Neighborhood Paris. Neighborhood parks serve all ages and are generally one to eight acres in
size. They are located adjacent to public schools when possible. Neighborhood parks contain a
wide variety of improvements which can include turf areas, active sport fields and courts,
community buildings, play apparatus and picnic facilities. Other improvements might include
senior center;, youth center;, and aquatic facilities.
View Park. View parks are smaller passive parks designed to take advantage of a significant view.
They are often located on coastal bluffs to focus upon ocean or bay views. Most view parks are
between one -half to three acres in size and serve the entire City. View parks are generally
improved with landscaping, walkways and benches.
Greenbelt Greenbelts in public or private ownership are included in this category. They may
include areas with some recreational facilities, although the primary function of the area is passive
open space.
Open Space. Open space includes passive and active open space areas which do not function as
public parks but do provide open space relief. Such areas may or may not be accessible to the
general public.
Public Beach. Public Beaches serve a number of local and regional functions. In some
neighborhoods, beaches function as neighborhood or community parks. Easy accessibility, lack
of entrance fees and a lack of other available parks has contributed to this function. Public
beaches all include sandy beach areas adjacent to the bay or ocean and may include active sports,
snack bars, showers, drinking fountains, restrooms, walkways, docks, benches, shade trees and
parking areas. From observation, it has been determined that active beach recreation takes place
within about 100 feet of the water's edge. Therefore, this Element treats this seaward 100 feet of
the public beaches in the City as active recreation acreage.
School. Public schools are a part of the recreation system in the City because field and
playground areas can serve the general public during weekends and after school.
Circulation and Improvement and Open Space Agreement
Some of the City's parks and open space areas consist of dedicated lands through the Circulation
and Improvement and Open Space Agreement (CIOSA). This agreement is between the City of
Newport Beach and The Irvine Company, and has allowed building entitlements for The Irvine
Company in exchange for payments of required proposed projects, an interest free loan, and land
for open space and potential senior housing site for the City. The amount of open space land
dedication was substantially more than what would have been required under the City's Park
Dedication Ordinance.
Feur-Six sites have been dedicated under CIOSA in Newport Beach, and include: Back Bay View
Park, Newport Village (Newport Center Parr, Newporter Knoll Grant Deeds, and-Freeway
Reservation Uvver Castaways and Harbor Cove. Baek u .y 3, ow n.ak and rr_„eway n,....,_.,tien
afe both developed as ...a. .. bile the _ Another site, two
located at Jamboree Road and MacArthur Boulevard, will be dedicated upon issuance of a
Certificate of Occupancy for final CIOSA project.
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10120105
16
Recreational Facilities
The City�s parks contain a variety of recreational facilities, with areas available for organized
sports including soccer fields, baseball diamonds, tennis courts, volleyball coups, and basketball
courts. Recreational opportunities exist for children in many of the play areas in the City's parks.
Biking and walking trails are also popular recreational amenities. Swimming pools are available to
the public at aquatic facilities at the Marian Bergeson Aquatic Center and Newport Harbor I-rgh
School through joint use agreements with the Newport-Mesa Unified School District. Additional
recreational resources in the City include three community centers, several multipurpose
recreation centers, a senior center, and two gyrnnasium facilities. Private facilities, including yacht
clubs, golf courses, and country clubs are also facilities that serve residents of Newport Beach.
Sharing of Parks and Recreation Facilities
Public schools within the City under the jurisdiction of the Newport-Mesa Unified School
District contain a number of important recreation facilities. Currently, after - school recreational
use of these facilities is utilized by youth and adult residents through joint use agreements
between the school district and the City.
Parkland Dedication Standards
Parkland dedication standards associated with the Quimby Act and the Newport Beach
Subdivision Code are applicable to development in the City. As required under the State
Government Code, the Quimby Act provides for the dedication of parkland, or the payment of
fees in lieu of land, by developers as a requirement for residential development. The Act requires
the provision of three acres of park area per 1,000 persons residing within a subdivision, unless
the amount of existing neighborhood and community park area exceeds that limit, in which case
the City may adopt a higher standard not to exceed five acres per 1,000 residents.
Chapter 19.52, Park Dedication and Fees of the Citys Municipal Code provides for the
dedication of land, the payment of fees - in lieu thereof or a combination of both, for park or
recreational purposes in conjunction with the approval of residential development. Newport
Beach's park dedication requirement is five acres per 1,000 persons. In -lieu fees are placed in a
fund earmarked for the provision or rehabilitation of park and recreation facilities that can serve
the subdivision. The park dedication ordinance also provides for credit to be given, at the
discretion of the City Council, for the provision of private recreation facilities within a new
residential development or for the provision of park and recreation improvements to land
dedicated for a public park If allowed, the private facilities or public improvements are credited
against the dedication of land and/or the payment of in -lieu fees. The ordinance is not applicable
to non - residential subdivisions.
Marine Recreation and Facilities
Throughout its history, Newport Beach has been a major marine recreational center. There are
over eight miles of sandy beaches that provide opportunities for sunbathing, volleyball,
swimming, surfing, windsurfing and other recreational activities. Newport Bay and Harbor are
used for a wide variety of recreational activities, including boating, diving, excursions, fishing,
kayaking, paddle boarding, parasailing, rowing, sailing, swimming, and windsurfing.
RECREATION— DRAFT, 10120105 3
_H
Coastal Recreation Opportunities
As previously discussed, public Beaches serve a number of local and regional functions, while
providing the largest coastal recreation opportunity within Newport Beach. Public beaches all
include sandy beach areas adjacent to the bay or ocean and may include active sports, snack bars,
showers, drinking fountains, restrooms, walkways, docks, benches, shade trees and parking areas.
Other coastal recreation opportunities include two recreational piers, provided by the City. The
800 -foot Newport Pier is located at the end of Newport Boulevard (McFadden Place) in
McFadden Square. The 950 -foot Balboa Pier is located at the end of Maui Street in Balboa
Village.
Additionally, the City provides ten public docks in the harbor, which can be used for boat
launching and fishing. The Newport Aquatic Center property is also co-owned by the City and
County, but is leased and privately operated by the Center. Located on Northstar Beach, the
Newport Aquatic Center provides an opportunity for the public and members to kayak and
canoe in Upper Newport Bay as well as advanced training facilities for world -class athletes.
The County and the State own four recreational areas in Newport Beach. The privately operated
100 -acre Newport Dunes Aquatic Park provides opportunities for camping, boating, canoeing,
kayaking, swimming and other water and beach activities. The 752 -acre Upper Newport Bay State
Marine Park lEcolQ&j Reserve) and 140 -acre Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve provide
opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, horseback riding, biking, and hiking. Lastly, the Crystal
Cove State Park also provides coastal recreation opportunities with 3.5 miles of beach and 2,000
acres of undeveloped woodland which is popular for hiking and horseback riding. Approximately
240 acres is located within the City. The offshore waters are designated as an underwater park
Crystal Cove is used by mountain bikers inland and scuba and skin divers underwater. The beach
is popular with swimmers and surfers. Visitors can explore tidepools and sandy coves.
Commercial areas adjacent to beaches and the bay play an important role in providing and
enhancing recreational activities. A large number of businesses provide recreational services to
residents and visitors that include charter, entertainment and excursion vessels, sports equipment
rentals, launching facilities, amusement facilities, and shops and restaurants.
Shoreline Access
The public's right to access recreational features such as the Pacific Ocean beaches, Lower
Newport Bay /Harbor, and Upper Newport Bay are important. According to the City's Local
Coastal Plan, there are two basic types of public access: vertical access (access to the shoreline),
and lateral access (access along the shoreline). Newport Beach has developed an extensive system
of access to ocean beaches and the bay. Virtually all of the Pacific Ocean shoreline beaches are
public and the bay is accessible via public beaches, parks, street ends, shoreline trails, walkways
and boardwalks.
NEEDS
Although the City of Newport Beach appears largely built out, there are a number of vacant
parcels available for future development. The General Plan Land Use Element projects additional
population increases through infill development, intensification of existing uses, and annexations.
Therefore, in addition to any unmet park and recreation needs of the present population, the
RECREATION - DRAFT, 10120105
3�
demand for recreation facilities will grow. In addition, the Land Use Element allows for higher
density development within the City, where opportunities for different types of park and
recreational facilities may arise.
Specific citywide and service area needs for parks and recreational facilities, as well as marine
recreation and facilities, are described below.
Citywide Issues and Needs
Parks and Recreational Facilities
In June 2005, it is estimated that a total of 415.6 acres of parklands are needed within the Cary to
accommodate the current population of 83,120 residents (utilizing the City standard of 5 acres
per 1,000 population). As shown in Table 1, below, there are an existing total of 286.4 acres of
parks and 90.4 acres of active beach recreation within Newport Beach with a combined total of
376.8 acres. Thus, this represents a total deficit of 38.8 acres of combined park and beach acreage
citywide. Seven of the 12 service areas are experiencing a deficit in this combined recreation
acreage. Three planned parks in West Newport, Newport Center, and Newport Coast would help
alleviate the citywide park deficit.
The citywide parr and recreation facilities needs described below have been identified through
the following: (1) community surveys (administered from December 1996 to February 1997);
(2) data shown in Table 1 (Parkland Acreage Needs); and (3) monitoring of the use of recreation
programs and facilities.
.'.
Seivlce:Araa• ;....
/�..•ryy. yy, �����._��
'Needed-
pay, .
E�aflti8s:
_
Act" pe&o
-Rlierss6fin Acrsa�e .
v. "bhW
ParWBedch
^ �• "no. .:.
yncy
'.6cessm
1. West Newport
64.7
9.1
34
43.1
•2L6
2. Balboa Peninsula
25.5
6.5
44
50.5
+25.0
3. Newport Hts. et al
64.3
50.2
0
50.2
-14.1
4. Santa Ana Heights
3.2
6.8
0
6.8
+3.6
5. Lower Bay
17.3
0.1
0
0.1
-17.2
6. Balboa Island
17.9
0.3
1
1.3
-16.6
7. Eastbluff
3L3
710
0
71.0
+39.7
S. Big Canyon
13.9
0
0
0
-13.9
9. Newport Center
10.9
19
0
19
+8.1
10. Corona del Mar
44.4
23.9
11.4
35.3
-9.1
11- Harbor View
72.2
99.5
0
99.5
+27.3
12. Newport Coast*
50
58.1*
Private parks only
0
50
Totals
415.6 a
286.4
90.42 b
376.8
-38.8**
* Newport Coast Private Park Area Is 58.1 ac. This private parkland satisfies the County park dedication standards.
* *Deficit/excess acreage if no additional parks are built.
e 83,120 x 5 ac. per thousand s 415.6 ac.
bincludes beach area where active recreation takes place (i.e., typically within 100 feet of the water). in addition, there
are 174 acres of passive beach open space, 136 acres of open space land In the Upper Bay Ecological reserve, and an
undetermined amount of water open space In the Upper Bay and Newport Harbor.
RECREATION - DRAFT, 10120105
IDENTIFIED ISSUES AND NEEDS
Sports Fields. Perhaps the fastest growing recreational demand in Newport Beach is the need
for additional sports fields, especially lighted facilities available for after-work sports leagues. This
need stems from the evolving nature of sports activities, diversity of sports that residents are
involved in, growing participation of girls in a number of field sports, the lengthening of seasons
for many sports and consequent season overlap, the need for sports facilities for the physically
challenged, and the continuing high level of participation in company sports leagues such as coed
softball. Meeting this need will be a challenge because of the large amount of area required for
sports fields, the lack of suitable vacant land in the City, and the high cost of such land. In
addition, school districts are adding new teams to accommodate the diversity of sports students
are interested in, making it more difficult for the City's Recreation Department to use school
sports fields to provide public recreation opportunities.
Indoor Facilities. The community surveys emphasized the need for additional gymnasium or
other indoor sports facilities, such as for basketball, volleyball, and gymnastics. With the
exception of the West Newport Community Center, all of the current indoor facilities owned by
the City are small and consist of one or two small classrooms. There is a need for community
centers with large meeting and multipurpose rooms that can be programmed for many different
classes and activities. Additional indoor facilities should be planned for the long -term, located
preferably within a comrnunit),level park
Community Pool Facilities. The need surveys showed a strong desire for additional adult and
youth swimming pool and aquatic sports facilities and programs. The City does not own a
swimming pool and currently offers all aquatics programs to the community at one of two high
school pools. There is a growing demand through the schools for additional aquatic programs
serving the students, thereby limiting the amount of time the City can operate programs for the
general public.
Sharing of School Facilities. Public schools within the City administered by the Newport-Mesa
Unified School District contain a number of important indoor and outdoor recreation facilities.
After-school recreational use of these facilities including playfields, swimming pools,
gymnasiums, and other facilities could be utilized by other non - school age residents of Newport
Beach to maximize the recreational opportunities available. However, as schools evolve in
function, the City's Recreation Department may lose use of these school facilities.
Other Facilities. Other identified facility needs
courts, dog parks, tot lots /playgrounds, golf
educational facilities, and public restrooms.
include bike and pedestrian trails, lighted tennis
driving range, public marine recreational and
Temporary Events. Temporary events such as festivals are held at parks and recreation facilities
within the City. During these events, access to and use of these facilities could be impacted.
Marine Recreation and Facilities
The citywide marine recreation and facilities needs described below have been identified through
community surveys (administered from December 1996 to February 1997), through the data in
Table 1 Parkland Acreage Needs, and through monitoring of the use of recreation programs and
facilities.
RECREATION-DRAFT, 10120105
3y
IDENTIFIED ISSUES AND NEEDS
Boating Facilities. Although not as great as the need for sports fields, there is a substantial
demand for public boat launching facilities, sailing facilities, marine sanitation facilities, and guest
slips. In addition, there is a continuing high level of interest in crew rowing and outrigger
paddling activities and facilities.
Shoreline Access. Throughout Southern California, access to the shoreline is restricted to the
public due to private residential communities. However, there are a few private residential
communities that impede public access to and along the shoreline.
Temporary Events. Newport Beach's coastal areas have long been the venue for temporary
events, including film production, surfing contests, volleyball tournaments, runs, races, concerts,
boat shows, and other such competitions, exhibitions, and events. Also, a number of view parks
have become popular locations for large private gatherings. The nature and frequency of such
events can impact access to the shoreline and other coastal resources.
Service Areas
The City has been divided into service areas, as shown in Figure 1, for the purposes of park
planning and to equitably administer parkland dedications and fees provided by residential
development. Two of the 12 service areas within the City, Santa Ana Heights /Airport
Commercial and Newport Center, have no identified park and recreation needs, as discussed
below.
Service Area 4 — Santa Ana Heights /Airport Commercial. The population within this area is
expected to remain stable or decline in light of the Land Use Element's policies aimed at limiting
residential development under the flight pattern of John Wayne Airport. There is currently a park
surplus, and the present two -acre Bayview Park and the proximity of the Upper Bay recreation
area provide substantial recreational opportunities for this area. There is also a planned pocket
park and the City is planning a joint use community center project with the YMCA.
Service Area 9 — Newport Center. There is park surplus within this service area. The Back Bay
View Park was completed in the summer of 2005, and a new passive park, Newport Center Park,
is planned for development sometime after 2006.
Parks and Recreational Facilities
Service area parks and recreational facilities needs described below have been identified through
community surveys (administered from December 1996 to February 1997), through the data in
Table 1 Parkland Acreage Needs, and through monitoring of the use of recreation programs and
facilities.
IDENTIFIED ISSUE-S AND NEEDS
Service Area 1 —West Newport Most of West Newport s recreation land is in beaches. There
is a deficit of 21.6 acres, and a need for sports fields within a new community or neighborhood-
level park There is a future park site identified in this service area, Sunset Ridge Park which is
designated as an active park to include ball fields,, (,.,.,...a,,� 4y ligiAed), picnic areas, a playground,
parking, and restrooms. If Banning Ranch is annexed into the City and is developed for urban
uses, there will be additional demand for recreation facilities by new residents of this area.
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10120105 7
�4
Locating an active park on Banning Ranch could help satisfy the existing and future park needs
of the area.
1 '
Newport
N
W E
S
1 MICE
...... SERVICE AREA BOUNDARY
Ana
Figure 1 Service Area Locations
.
12
Newport Coast
Service Area 2— Balboa Peninsula. Like West Newport, most of the peninsula's recreation
area is in beaches. This area has little vacant land for development and the population is expected
to remain stable. Although there is currently a surplus in park acreage, any future park needs can
be satisfied via the renovation and upgrading of facilities, such as those at Las Arenas Park and
Peninsula Park Additional active park facilities are desirable, along with support facilities such as
restrooms, showers and drinking fountains. There is also a need for additional boat launching and
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10120105
8
3`�
O
I
1
• Eastbluff/
NC 13orl North."* . . •
• 8
•+
• Big Canyon/
Belcourl
3
Newpon Heights/
• •••
Upper Bay,
•••••
••
Newpon Center •S
•6
I�bpa •,
••.• ��� •
•., : Harbor Vim
i
oaIsland
�••. ` Corona del Mat'
Figure 1 Service Area Locations
.
12
Newport Coast
Service Area 2— Balboa Peninsula. Like West Newport, most of the peninsula's recreation
area is in beaches. This area has little vacant land for development and the population is expected
to remain stable. Although there is currently a surplus in park acreage, any future park needs can
be satisfied via the renovation and upgrading of facilities, such as those at Las Arenas Park and
Peninsula Park Additional active park facilities are desirable, along with support facilities such as
restrooms, showers and drinking fountains. There is also a need for additional boat launching and
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10120105
8
3`�
mooring facilities, as well as pedestrian pathways to and along the Bay. Future development of
the City's Marina Park property could provide for the existing community center and the City's
current sailing and boating facilities on the site to be renovated and expanded.
Service Area 3-- Newport Heights /Harbor Highlands. This area is largely built out and
contains several important park and recreation facilities. Substantial school recreation facilities,
including Newport Harbor High School, Ensign Junior I -ligh, Mariners Elementary, and Newport
Heights Elementary, compensate for the deficiency in total park area.
Service Area 5 —Lower Bay. This area contains Lido Isle and the Bayside Drive area and is
largely built out. Although there is a deficiency in park area, the service area has substantial
private recreational and boating facilities. It is also adjacent to Area 3 (Newport Heights) where
there are extensive recreational facilities. Because of these factors and the fact there is little or no
vacant land suitable for park use, the provision of additional parkland is probably not feasible in
this area.
Service Area 6— Balboa Island. This area is similar, in terms of recreation needs and conditions
with a deficiency in park area, to Area 5 above. However, Balboa Island contains more public
recreational facilities in the form of public beach area, the Carroll Beek Community Center, and
Balboa Island Park (a mini - park). The acquisition of additional parkland is probably not feasible
in this area.
Service Area 7— Eastbluff /North Ford. Although there is a numerical excess of existing
parkland in this area, most of the land is limited to passive use, such as Big Canyon Park
Additional sports fields and other active facilities will be needed to satisfy the recreational
demands from new development. However, this Service Area is adjacent to Service Area 11
Harbor View, which contains the 47.6 acre public park in Bonita Canyon that is available to all
Newport Beach residents.
Service Area 8—Big Canyon/Belcourt. Although there are substantial private facilities, there
are no public recreation facilities in this area; thus, there is park deficiency. However, this Service
Area is adjacent to Service Area 11 Harbor View, which contains the 47.6 acre public park in
Bonita Canyon that is available to all Newport Beach residents.
Service Area 10- -Corona del Mar. Although there is a deficiency in park area, existing active
and passive facilities should meet present and future need, provided these facilities are renovated
and upgraded to meet demand for sports fields and active recreation.
Service Area 11— Harbor View. Although there is a deficiency in park area, the Harbor View
Service Area contains substantial active and passive recreation facilities. The City s efforts should
be focused on maintaining and/or upgrading existing facilities, such as Grant Howald Park,
Arroyo Park and Bonita Canyon Sports Park
Service Area 12— Newport Coast This area is deficient in public facilities, but exceeds the City
park ratio standard if its extensive private facilities are included. Currently, there is one public
park planned for development in the future at the end of Ridge Road, and a neighborhood
community center that will include meeting and activity rooms and a gymnasium The City's
Recreation Department has not been permitted to offer programs at the privately owned park.
The youth of Newport Coast Service Area participate in programs outside of the service area.
RECREATION - DRAFT, 10120105
GOALS AND POLICIES
Park and Recreation Facilities
Goal R1 Provision of adequate park and recreation facilities that meet the
recreational needs of existing and new residents of the community.
Policy R1.1 Require future development to dedicate land or pay in -lieu fees at a
minimum of five acres of parkland per 1,000 persons.
Policy R1.2 Require developers of new residential subdivisions to provide parklands at
5 acres per 1,000 persons, as stated in the City's Park Dedication Fee
Ordinance, or to contribute in-Ileu fees for the development of public
recreation facilities meeting demands generated by the development's
resident population.
Policy R13 Require developers of new high - density residential developments on parcels
eight acres or larger, to provide on -site recreational amenities. For these
developments, 44 square feet of on -site recreational amenities shall be
provided for each dwelling unit in addition to the requirements under the
City's Park Dedication Ordinance. On -site recreational amenities can
consist of public urban plazas or squares where there is the capability for
recreation and outdoor activity. These recreational amenities can also
include swimming pools, exercise facilities, tennis courts, and basketball
courts. Where there is insufficient land to provide on -site recreational
amenities, the developer shall be required to pay the City of Newport Beach
cash in -lieu that would be used to develop or upgrade nearby recreation
facilities to offset user demand as defined in the City's Park Dedication Fee
Ordinance.
Policy R1.4 Update the park fee assessed to new residential development in lieu of
dedicating park land on a regular basis.
Policy R1.5 Consider development of incentives such as density bonuses for private
commercial, office, and other developments to provide usable open space
such as rooftop courts, pocket parks, public plazas, jogging trails, and
pedestrian trails.
Policy R1.6 Use the following criteria when considering acquisition for parkland:
a) City's identified current and projected needs for recreation and sports
facilities
b) City's needs for recreation facilities based on location of existing
facilities
c) The preservation of natural resources, historic and cultural areas
d) Ease of accessibility
e) Usability of proposed parklands considering topography and other
landform constraints
f) Consistency with established parks and recreational facility goals
g) Fiscal impact on General Fund for any immediately needed
refurbishments and on -going maintenance
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10120105
10
i
Policy R1.7 In the event that surplus school sites become available for parkland
acquisition, site desirability should be evaluated using the following criteria:
a) Does the school site currently provide recreational facilities that have
been identified to meet local or community -wide needs?
b) Are other public lands in the vicinity of the school site inadequate to
meet the identified existing or foreseeable needs of the community for
recreation or open space purposes?
c) Is the school site a more economical or otherwise more feasible
alternative than other parcels which are available as potential sites in
the area?
Policy R1.8 Coordinate with the appropriate home owners association to conduct City
recreation programs on private parkland.
Policy R1.9 Continue to use underutilized City rights -of -way located on Ocean Boulevard
and Bayside Drive in Corona del Mar as passive parks.
Policy R1.10 Provide additional park and recreation facilities; in-the- prierity-erdeNisted
below, that meet the needs as identified by direct feedback from residents,
analysis of future trends, and through observations by Recreation and
Senior Services staff.
Parks
4� Newport Center Service Area: Develop Newport Center Park as a passive
park.
2• West Newport Service Area: Develop Sunset Ridge Park, an active park
with playfields, picnic areas, a playground, and other facilities.
3=• Newport Coast Service Area: Develop an active park located at the end
of Ridge Park Road; and develop a community center and a
gymnasium.
4: Santa Ana Heights /Airport Commercial Service Area: Develop a pocket
park in Santa Ana Heights, and consider acquiring the Caltrans excess
right -of -way site located at MacArthur Boulevard and SR 73 as a park to
support future residents in the Airport Area.
3• West Newport Service Area: If the Banning Ranch area is annexed into
the City, develop an active park on this site.
• Balboa Peninsula Service Area: Develop the Marina Park site for
expansion of recreational facilities.
Recreation Facilities
4� Complete the Santa Ana Heights and Newport Coast Community
Centers in a manner that allows the provision of a variety of recreational
programs while meeting the needs of the community.
2-.• Renovate the Oasis Senior Center to continue to function as a
multipurpose senior center that meets the needs of the Senior
population.
-3r_• Renovate the existing recreation facilities to ensure they are a safe
environment and offer quality programs and services.
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10 /20/05
11
2'1
Policy R1.11
Review the list of identified community park and recreation needs on a
regular basis, and update them as priorities for facilities change.
Policy R1.12
Review policies regularly for priority usage of facilities to ensure fair and
balanced assignments. Priority hierarchy shall be weighted for programs
that are inclusive in nature and provide for the recreational enrichment of
community's youth, adults, groups, and businesses. Scheduling shall be
done in a manner that accommodates both the needs of organized
activities as well as casual use by residents. Consideration shall also be
given to the proper maintenance and revitalization of facilities when
scheduling programs and activities.
Goal R2
Maintenance and preservation of existing parks and recreation facilities.
Policy R2.1
Use funding from the City's Park Dedication Fee Ordinance to enhance
existing parks and recreation facilities.
Policy R2.2
Protect public parkland from non - recreational uses; any loss of parkland
through governmental action shall be replaced in -kind.
Policy R2.3
Preserve all public beaches for public only purposes.
Goal R3
Accessible parks and recreation facilities to persons with disabilities.
Policy R3.1
Ensure that parks and recreation facilities include provisions for adequate
access for persons with disabilities and that existing facilities are
appropriately retrofitted to include such access as required by the
Americans with Disabilities Act.
Policy R3.2
Continue to provide beach wheelchairs commensurate with demand.
Policy R3.3
Design guardrails on parks, piers, trails, and public viewing areas to take
into consideration the views at the eye level of persons in wheelchairs.
Recreation Programs
Goal R4
Provision of a variety of seasonal and year -round recreational programs
designed to meet the needs of all residents, including children, seniors,
and persons with special needs.
Policy R4.1
Provide high quality recreational services through professionally- trained
recreational personnel to program participants.
Policy R4.2
Provide a variety of compatible recreational activities within a given
location.
Policy R4.3
Continue to provide a variety of quality programs offered in safe and secure
environments for the community's youth that enhance and extend the
learning day, promote health and wellness, encourage expansion of skills,
and reinforce self esteem, good character, and positive behavior.
Policy R4.4 Prioritize outdoor -City-sponsored youth sports programs that are inclusive In
nature, not for profit, and recreational in focus at Citkfacilities.
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10120105 12
2lt
Policy R4.5 Continue to provide a variety of quality enrichment and recreational
programs for the adult population that promote health and wellness;
development and /or enhancement of skills and talents; extend learning
opportunities; promote sportsmanship; and provide unique opportunities to
engage in new activities.
Policy R4.6 Design adult programs to be self sustaining in nature, covering all direct
Policy R5.2 Continue to expand and maintain existing joint use agreements with
Newport-Mesa Unified School District for use of facilities that will enhance
the provision of parks and recreational facilities for residents.
Policy R5.3 Develop additional long -term, joint -use agreements with other public and
private agencies to assure recreation facilities for future generations.
Policy R5.4 Continue existing joint use of facilities for City-operated recreational
programs on City-owned properties that are used for other purposes, as
needed.
Policy R5.5 Design public facilities to incorporate recreational elements such as
children's play areas, rooftop courts, pocket parks, and usable public
plazas.
Policy R5.6 Explore use of government-owned surplus or remnant parcels for public
park use.
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10120105
13
zh
expenses and administrative overhead costs.
Policy R4.7
Continue to provide quality services and programs which meet social,
recreational and health needs of the senior population.
Policy R4.8
Continue to form partnerships with other organizations in order to optimize
the services and programs available to seniors in this community.
Policy R4.9
Give priority usage to senior programs before other uses are allowed in
facilities that are designated for senior services.
Shared Facilities
Goal R5
Maximized use of the community's recreational resources by
coordinating with the agencies responsible for non -city recreational
facilities and open space.
Policy R5.1
Utilize non -City recreational facilities and open space (i.e., Newport-Mesa
Unified School District, county, and state facilities) to supplement the to
satisfy -park and recreational needs of the community. Maintain the use of
existing shared facilities, and expand the use of non -city facilities /amenities
where desirable and feasible.
Policy R5.2 Continue to expand and maintain existing joint use agreements with
Newport-Mesa Unified School District for use of facilities that will enhance
the provision of parks and recreational facilities for residents.
Policy R5.3 Develop additional long -term, joint -use agreements with other public and
private agencies to assure recreation facilities for future generations.
Policy R5.4 Continue existing joint use of facilities for City-operated recreational
programs on City-owned properties that are used for other purposes, as
needed.
Policy R5.5 Design public facilities to incorporate recreational elements such as
children's play areas, rooftop courts, pocket parks, and usable public
plazas.
Policy R5.6 Explore use of government-owned surplus or remnant parcels for public
park use.
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10120105
13
zh
Coastal Recreation and Support Facilities
Goal R6 Protection and enhancement of a wide -range of recreational
Policy R8.1 Continue to utilize existing City marine recreational facilities, including
piers, docks, bays, beaches and educational and support facilities such as
the intercollegiate rowing facilities, marine ways and services, launching
facilities, gas and pump -out stations, parking facilities, restrooms, showers,
drinking fountains, and concessions. [LCP]
Policy R8.2 Provide additional marine recreational, educational and support facilities
and opportunities as feasible. [LCP]
Policy R8.3 Encourage the provision of guest slips, moorings, and anchorages in
Newport Harbor. Coordinate work with the Orange County Harbor, Beaches,
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10120105 14
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opportunities along the coast and beaches.
Policy R6.1
Protect recreational opportunities along the coast and beaches from non -
recreational uses. Where feasible, expand and enhance recreational
opportunities along the coast and beaches.
Policy R6.2
Continue to cooperate with the State Department of Parks and Recreation,
the State Department of Fish and Game, and Orange County to protect,
expand and enhance opportunities for recreational activities at County and
State beaches and parks. [LCP]
Policy R6.3
Continue to allow recreational commercial uses in commercial areas
adjacent to beaches and the bay. [LCP]
Goal R7
Adequate support facilities serving recreational opportunities within the
coastal zone.
Policy R7.1
Continue to protect public coastal access recreational opportunities through
the provision of adequate support facilities and services. [LCP]
Policy R7.2
Distribute support facilities and services in coastal areas to avoid
overcrowding and overuse by the public. [LCP]
Policy R7.3
Maintain the ability to distribute, remove and relocate support facilities and
services in coastal areas in response to changes in demographics and
recreational interests while continuing to provide comparable facilities and
levels of service. [LCP]
Policy R7.4
Continue to cooperate with the State Department of Parks and Recreation,
the State Department of Fish and Game, Orange County, and private
organizations to protect, expand and enhance support facilities and services
at County and State beaches and parks. [LCP]
Marine Recreation
Goal R8
Provision and maintenance of marine recreation related facilities that
enhance the enjoyment of the City's natural resources.
Policy R8.1 Continue to utilize existing City marine recreational facilities, including
piers, docks, bays, beaches and educational and support facilities such as
the intercollegiate rowing facilities, marine ways and services, launching
facilities, gas and pump -out stations, parking facilities, restrooms, showers,
drinking fountains, and concessions. [LCP]
Policy R8.2 Provide additional marine recreational, educational and support facilities
and opportunities as feasible. [LCP]
Policy R8.3 Encourage the provision of guest slips, moorings, and anchorages in
Newport Harbor. Coordinate work with the Orange County Harbor, Beaches,
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10120105 14
.P
and Parks Department to provide such facilities where appropriate and
feasible. [LCP]
Policy R8.4 Provide for marine safety such as lifeguards, harbor patrol, police, traffic
and parking enforcement. [LCP]
Policy R8.5 Protect and, where feasible, expand, and enhance: [LCP]
• Vessel launching facilities
• Low -cost public launching facilities
• Marinas and dry boat storage facilities
• Guest docks at public facilities, yacht clubs and at privately owned -
marinas, restaurants and other appropriate locations
• Facilities and services for visiting vessels
• Facilities necessary to support vessels berthed or moored in the harbor,
such as boat haul out facilities
■ Existing harbor support uses serving the needs of existing waterfront
uses, recreational boaters, the boating community, and visiting vessels
Policy R8.6 Continue to provide shore moorings and offshore moorings as an important
source of low-cost public recreational access to the water and harbor. [LCP]
Policy R8.7 Protect and enhance specific programs that utilize the harbor, bay, and
ocean such as the City's sailing program and junior lifeguard program. [LCP]
Public Access
Goal R9 Provision and maintenance of public access for recreational purposes to
the City's coastal resources.
Policy R9A Provide adequate public access to the shoreline, beach, coastal parks,
trails, and bay, and- acquire additional public access points to these areas
and rovide parking. where possible.
Policy R9.2 Develop and implement a long -range plan for public trails and walkways to
access all appropriate commercial areas of the harbor, including: [LCP]
• Extend the Lido Marina Village boardwalk across all of the waterfront
commercial properties in Lido Village
• Provide a continuous waterfront walkway along the Rhine Channel
connecting Cannery Village and McFadden Square waterfront
commercial areas with Las Arenas Beach at 19th Street
• Provide a walkway connecting the Lido Village area with Mariner's Mile,
if feasible
• Provide a continuous walkway along the Mariner's Mile waterfront from
the Coast Highway /Newport Boulevard Bridge to the Balboa Bay Club
Policy R9.3 As part of a uniform coastal access signing program, provide information to
direct the public to parking areas, restrooms, and other support facilities.
[LCP]
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10120105 15
,A%
Policy R9.4 Protect public access to coastal resources from bay /harbor encroachments
such as piers, floats, and bulkheads.
Policy R9.5 Protect public access to coastal resources from private /gated communities.
Policy R9.6 Continue to require that Impacts to public access, recreation, and coastal
resources be minimized as a result from special events.
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10120105
16
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Natural Resources
INTRODUCTION
The primary objective of the Natural Resources Element is to provide direction regarding the
conservation, development, and utilization of natural resources. It identifies Newport Beach's
natural resources and policies for their preservation, development, and wise use. This element
addresses: water supply (as a resource) and water quality, air quality, terrestrial and marine
biological resources, open space, archaeological and paleontological resources, mineral resources,
visual resources, and energy.
A commitment to sustainable development through the efficient use and conservation of natural
resources is important to meet the needs of current and future residents of Newport Beach.
Commitment to conservation secures ongoing availability of finite resources such as an ample
supply of safe water, diversity of biological resources, and available energy resources. This
assurance contributes substantially- to the physical and psychological health and well-being of the
community and strengthens the vitality- of the local and regional economic base.
CONTEXT
Water Supply
Water supply is an important resource that needs to be used efficiently. Water service within
Newport Beach is provided by the City, Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD), and Mesa
Consolidated Water District (Mesa). Generally, Newport Beach provides water service to
approximately 13.5 square miles of the City; IRWD serves approximately nine square miles; and
Mesa serves less than one square mile.
Domestic water for the City is supplied by both groundwater and imported surface water.
Currently, about 75 percent of the water supplied to both the City- and Mesa's service area is from
groundwater from the Orange County Groundwater Basin (administered by the Orange Counts
Water District or OCWD), and the remaining 25 percent of water supply is provided by the
Metropolitan Water District (MWD), which delivers surface water imported from the Colorado
River and State Water Project. This ratio can change year to year based on the OCWD's
administration of the Basin's supply. Approximately- 50 percent of IRWD's current water supply
is purchased from MWD, with the remaining 50 percent coming from groundwater.
The future supply projection assumes that the City will continue to produce groundwater and
purchase local water from MWD, which is projected to meet 100 percent of the City's imported
water needs until the year 2010. Beyond that, improvements associated with the State Water
Project supply, additional local projects, conservation, and additional water transfers would be
needed to adequately provide surface water to the City. OCWD projects that there would be
sufficient groundwater supplies to meet any future demand requirements in Newport Beach.
IRWD's treated and clear groundwater supplies are also expected to be a significant source of
potable water supply in the future. NP& D water will be required for supplemental supply as well
as peak and emergency conditions.
NATURAL RESOURCES — DRAFT, 10125105
In an effort to effectively manage water resources, the City's service area participates in regional
water management programs that assist in the development of resource mixes that balance water
supply- sources and meet future local and regional water requirements. In addition, all service
providers focus on demand management efforts that promote efficient water use and effective
management of imported and local water supplies through a variety of water conservation
programs.
The City also began purchasing recycled water from OCWD and IRWD in 1999, and has
identified and approached all cost - effective end users in the City that could potentially use
recycled water, and uses a combination of incentives to encourage recycling. The City has
maximized opportunities for end users of recycled water and could only increase users if a
neighboring water agency provided the reclaimed water to the City. Both Mesa and IRWD
encourage water recycling as well. Currently, reclaimed water makes up 30 percent of IRWD's
total water supply.
Water Quality
Newport Beach's greatest resources are its coastline and bay. Urban runoff from the surrounding
watershed impacts not only the biological diversity and functionality of Newport Bay and the
surrounding coastal waters, but also its water quality. This runoff includes various pollutants,
such as fecal materials from pets, oil and grease, fertilizers, and other urban -based pollutants. The
City has traditionally been concerned regarding these issues and has embarked on a number of
programs to improve its quality.
Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs). Newport Bat- receives urban runoff from the
Newport Bay watershed, and is designated as "water quality- limited" for four impairments under
the federal Clean Water Act's Section 303(d). Being "water quality - limited" means that a water
body- is "not reasonably expected to attain or maintain water quality standards" without additional
regulation. The law requires that US EPA develop TDIDLs for each impaired water body in the
nation, which specifies the maximum amount of a pollutant that a waterbody can receive and still
meet water quality standards. A TNIDL may also include a plan for bringing an impaired water
body back within standards. TMDLs have been developed for the following substances in
Newport Beach: sediment, nutrients, fecal coliform, and toxic pollutants.
National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). Additionallv, Newport Beach
operates a municipal separate storm sewer system (IbIS4) permit under the NPDES. MS4 permits
require an aggressive water quality- ordinance, specific municipal practices, and the use of best
management practices (BMPs) in many development - related activities to further reduce the
amount of contaminants in urban runoff. MS4 permits also require local agencies to
cooperatively develop a public education campaign to inform people about what they can do to
protect water quality.
Sanitary Sewer Overflows. Newport Beach owns and operates a wastewater collection system
that collects residential and commercial wastewater and transports it for treatment to the Orange
County Sanitation District. Portions of the City receive wastewater service from IRWD.
Residences and businesses hook up private lateral lines to the City's collection lines. Private and
public lines and the City's pump stations have the potential to cause sanitary sewer overflows
(SSOs), which may lead to several beach closures in and around Newport Beach each year. Most
SSOs in the area are caused by line blockages from grease and root clogs, or maintenance failures
NATURAL RESOURCES — DRAFT, 10125105 2
of plumbing associated with pump stations. The City regulates the disposal of grease and other
insoluble waste, and follows a defined Sewer System Master Plan to replace or reline older
wastewater lines and upgrade pump stations.
Air Quallty
Newport Beach is located within the South Coast Air Basin (Basin), named so because its
geographical formation is that of a basin, with the surrounding mountains trapping the air and its
pollutants in the valleys or basins below. Due to the typical daily wind pattern, much of the Basin
is flushed of high levels of air pollutants on most spring and early summer days. From late
summer through the winter months, the flushing is less pronounced because of lighter wind
speeds.
Mobile sources account for the majority of the air pollutant emissions within the Basin. Both the
Federal and 'State governments have established ambient air quality- standards for outdoor
concentrations of various pollutants in order to protect public health. The South Coast Air
Quality Management District (SCAQMD) is responsible for bringing air quality within the Basin
into conformity with the national and state standards.
In an effort to monitor the various concentrations of air pollutants throughout the Basin, the
SCAQMD has divided the region into 27 source receptor areas (SR1s). Newport Beach is located
within SRA 18, which encompasses the North Coastal Orange County area. The air pollutants for
which national and state standards have been promulgated and which are most relevant to air
quality planning and regulation include ozone, carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO),
and sulfur dioxide (SO). As of 2003, SRA 18 did not exceed state or national standards for any
criteria pollutant monitored.
Toxic air contaminants are also a concern in the air basins, but are different than the "criteria"
pollutants listed above in that ambient air quality standards have not been established for them,
largely because there are hundreds of air toxics and their effects on health tend to be local rather
than regional. These contaminants include chemical substances that may be emitted from a
variety of common sources including gasoline stations, motor vehicles, dry cleaners, painting and
industrial operations, etc.
Land use patterns and density- of development affect the amount of air pollutants that are
generated by communities. Newport Beach is a low- density community, where the distance
between uses is greater than in high- density communities. As a result, there are fewer public
transportation routes and vehicles, and an increase in the number of motor vehicle trips and
associated air pollutant emissions. Newport Beach is also a jobs -rich City, which increases the
potential for emissions to be generated as employees or residents have to commute long
distances to and from their homes and work.
The City's Municipal Code does address air quality by establishing a special fund to receive
revenue distributed by the Sett... Air ` a. j 2 ,......6 ... t SCAOMD). The
SCAQMD imposes an additional vehicle registration fee, of which the City is eligible to receive a
portion, to implement mobile source air pollution reduction programs.
NATURAL RESOURCES — DRAFT, 10125105 3
Aircraft Pollution
Aircraft operations at the John Wayne Airport contribute air pollutants that affect residents and
visitors of Newport Beach. Specifically, aircraft engines emit water vapor, carbon dioxide, small
amounts of nitrogen oxides (NOx), hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, sulfur gases, and soot and
metal particles formed by the high temperature combustion of jet fuel during flight. NOx
emissions are a precursor to the formation of ground -level ozone, also known as smog. Ozone
affects human pulmonary and respiratory health. Also, NOx reacts in the atmosphere to form
secondary particulate matter (PM, 5), which also causes detrimental health effects. In addition,
NOx, ozone, and PNI adversely affect the environment in various ways including visibility
impairment, crop damage, and acid rain.
Aircraft engine emissions prescribed by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
were adopted by the Environmental Protection .Agency (EPA) for the United States in 1997. The
City of Newport Beach does not have any specific regulations governing aircraft engine
emissions.
Blologlcal Resources
A variety of diverse, valuable, and sensitive biological resources occur within the City of Newport
Beach. The terrestrial and marine resources that are present in the City are described below.
Terrestrial Resources
Many plant habitats can be found in Newport Beach that includes scrub, chaparral, grassland, and
riparian habitats. Additionally, Newport Beach contains vernal pools, seeps, and wet meadows.
Other plant habitats present in Newport Beach include annual grasslands, ruderal areas that are
generally a result of disturbances caused by humans, and ornamental landscaping that consist of
introduced trees, shrubs, flowers, and turf grass.
Sensitive Terrestrial Species
The California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) California Natural Diversity Database
(CNDDB) and the California Native Plant Society's Electronic Inventory of Rare and
Endangered Vascular Plants of California identifies occurrences of federal- or State -listed or
proposed endangered or threatened species, Federal Species of Concern, species categorized as
Federal Species of Concern, California Species of Concern, or otherwise sensitive species or
habitat that may occur within or in the immediate vicinity of Newport Beach. These species are
protected under state and federal regulations. The databases indicate that there are three listed
plant species that occur or have the potential to occur within the City of Newport Beach: San
Fernando Valley spineflower, salt marsh bird's beak, and Crownbeard.
Eleven listed wildlife species occur or have the potential to occur within die City of Newport
Beach: San Diego fairy shrimp, Tidewater gobs California black rail, light- footed clapper rail,
western snowy plover, California least tern, southwestern willow flycatcher, coastal California
gnatcatcher, least Bell's vireo, Belding's savannah sparrow, and pacific pocket mouse.
In addition, other sensitive species include 27 sensitive wildlife species and 24 sensitive plant
species that occur or potentially occur within the Newport Beach area.
NATURAL RESOURCES—DRAFT, 10125105 4
Marine Resources
The marine resources of the City and surrounding ocean waters are very diverse. They include
plants and animals of marshes and wetlands living in Upper Newport Bay, the developed
channels, beaches, and hardscape of Lower Newport Bay (Newport Harbor), and the intertidal
and subddal landforms (sandy beaches, rocky intertidal, sandy subddal, and subtidal reefs) along
the coast of Newport Beach between the Santa Ana River and the boundary between the City
and Laguna Beach. Many of these areas are considered wetland habitat by the State of Califomia
and federal wetland definitions are protected by a no -net loss wetlands policy
Sensitive Marine Species
Several species of marine mammals are present in the waters near the shore along the Newport
coastline. All marine mammals are protected by the Mftin Marine Mammal Protection Act.
Protected marine mammals that are most likely to occur in the City are: California sea lion,
Harbor seal, California gray whale, Killer whale, Common dolphin, Pacific white sided dolphin,
and Dall's porpoise.
Eelgrass (Zostera mauinv), a flowering, marine vascular plant, is considered a sensitive marine
resource due to its nursery function for invertebrates and fishes, and because it is considered
critical foraging habitat for the federal- and State -listed California least tern. Eelgrass is protected
by the Southern California Eelgrass Mitigation Policy, which requires impacts to this species be
avoided, minimized or compensated.
Other sensitive marine resources include eelgrass restoration areas, Giant kelp, California
Grunion, and California halibut.
Environmental Study Areas
Undeveloped areas supporting natural habitats that may be capable of supporting sensitive
biological resources within the City are also referred to as Environmental Study Areas (ESAs) by
the Local Coastal Plan. An ESA may support species and habitats that are sensitive and rare
within the region or may function as a migration corridor for wildlife. The portions of the ESAs
within the Coastal Zone that contain sensitive or rare species are referred to as Environmentally
Sensitive Habitat Areas (ESHAs), as defined by the California Coastal Act. ESHAs are areas in
which "plant or animal life or their habitats are either rare or are especially valuable because of
their special nature or role in an ecosystem that could easily be disturbed or degraded by human
activities and developments." The Coastal Act requires that ESHAs be protected against any
significant disruption of habitat values. Only uses dependent on those resources are allowed
within ESHAs and adjacent development must be sited and designed to prevent impacts that
would significantly degrade the ESHA and must be compatible with the continuance of the
ESHA
There are 28 identified ESAs within the City of Newport Beach: (1) Semeniuk Slough, (2) North
Star Beach, (3) West Bay, (4) Upper Newport Bay State Marine Park (l: NBNIP formerly
Ecological Resery e), (5) De Anza Bayside Marsh Peninsula, (6) San Diego Creek, (7) East Bluff
Remnant, (8) Mouth of Big Canyon, (9) Newporter North, (10) Buck Gully, (11) Morning
Canyon, (12) Newport Beach Marine Life Refuge, (13) Castaways, (14) Banning Ranch,
(15) Newport Coast Open Space, (16) Los Trancos, Pelican Hill, (17) Ridge Park, (18) Irvine
Coast Marine Life Refuge, (19) Newport Harbor Entrance Channel, (20) Bonita Canyon Creek
NATURAL RESOURCES — DRAFT, 10125105 5
Watershed, (21) San Joaquin Reservoir, (22) Arroyo Park, (23) Coyote Canyon, (24) MacArthur
and Bison, (25) MacArthur and San Miguel, (26) MacArthur and San Joaquin Hills, (27) Spyglass
Hill, (28) and Non- Coastal Buck Gully. Many of these sites contains one or more sensitive plant
communities, and many species of wildlife. Some of the ESAs also contain endangered species of
plants and animals. Most of these ESAs are protected as parks, conservation areas, nature
preserves, and other open space areas. However, each of these ESAs are subjected to various
threats from the surrounding urban environment that include polluted water quality, traffic,
noise, public access, development encroachment, erosion and sedimentation, dredging or filling,
stormwater runoff, invasive species, and feral animals.
Newport Harbor
Newport Harbor is home to valuable habitat such as eelgrass and mudflats that support a wide
range of species, and also provides the public with recreational boating opportunities. There is a
need to protect the biological habitat, and continue to serve the needs of the recreational boating
community by ensuring compatibility between these uses of Newport Harbor. The City believes
the best way to meet this objective is to develop a comprehensive plan for the management of
the Harbor, with the support and cooperation of the County of Orange, US National Fish and
Wildlife Service, National Marine Fisheries Service, US army Corps of Engineers, California
Coastal Commission, Regional Water Quality Control Board, recreational boating community-,
environmental community, and public.
Upper Newport Bay
The City Council has consistently supported the concept of developing, in cooperation with
CDFG and the County of Orange, a facility on Shellmaker Island that would serve as a center for
water quality and ecosystem education as well as water quality testing and research. The proposed
facility, Back Bay Science Center (BBSC), includes a Counry- operated water quality lab, facilities
for CDFG personnel involved in the management of the Upper Newport Bay State Marine Park
(t=NaBMP forfor merle Ecological Reserve), space and exhibits for estuarine, ecosystem and water
quality education and research programs, a wetland demonstration marsh and ecological
interpretive stations. The City has taken the lead role in the planning /design of the Back Bay
Science Center using Oil Spill Settlement Proceeds designated for that purpose. The City, CDFG,
County, and UCI have entered into a cooperative agreement that identifies the maintenance and
operational responsibilities of the parties involved.
The Upper Newport Bay State Marine Park (formerly- F.coloeical Risen eY'"' one of few
remaining estuaries in Southern California, is home to nearly 200 species of birds, including
several endangered species, as well as numerous species of mammals, fish, and plants. It' NBMP
is an important stopover for migrating birds on the Pacific Flyway and up to 30,000 birds can be
seen here on any day during the winter months. The Upper Newport Bat- State 'Marine Park
formerly Ecological Reserve) 1P is contiguous to 140 acres of County owned uplands on
the north and northwest that teas, in 2000, designated as the Upper Newport Bay Nature
Preserve and which includes an educational facility known as the Muth Center.
The Upper Newport Bay State Marine Park (,formerly Ecological Resen•e)t"nrr�� is an
extremely valuable natural resource that must be carefully managed to (a) protect and enhance the
habitat of the endangered species; (G) protect and enhance the various ecologies within and
adjacent to the State Marine Parkt7INBMP; (,) ensure that the public's access to and use of the
NATURAL RESOURCES--DRAFT, 10125105 6
State 'Marine Park T NW W does not adversely impact the flora or fauna; (d) maximize the
public's understanding and awareness of the resource and recreational value of the State Marine
Park 1'"r; and (e) promote direct community involvement in resource protection and
enhancement.
Natural Gemminutes Communities Conservation Plan (NCCP)
In July of 1996, the City became a signatory agency in the Orange County Central- Coastal NCCP
Subregional Plan. The plan covers nearly 38,000 acres in coastal southern California and is a
collaboration of federal and State resource agencies, local governments, special districts and
private property owners. The NCCP uses a multi- species habitat conservation approach rather
than a species specific approach resulting in the preservation of some of the most valuable native
habitats while freeing other properties for development. As a signatory agency, the City is
responsible for enforcing mitigation measures and other policies identified in the NCCP /Habitat
Conservation Plan Implementation Agreement for properties located within the City Limit that
are part of the NCCP Subregional Plan.
Open Space Resources
Open space may be defined as areas generally free from development or developed with low
intensity uses that respect the natural environmental characteristics. Open space is generally non-
urban in character and may have utility for the following: park and recreation purposes;
conservation of land, water, or other natural resources; or for historic or scenic purposes. Most
of the City's open space resources are located along the coast and in the eastern half of the Ci",..
Newport Beach's open space resources consist of undeveloped areas such as the Environmental
Study Areas as described above, the Newport Bay, and Newport Harbor. Other resources include
the City's many undeveloped canyons and hillsides located primarily in the Newport Coast area.
The beaches, parks, and the Crystal Cove State Park also represent some other open space
resources. Some of these resources are not preserved as parks or dedicated open spaces;
however, local, State, and federal regulations help protect, preserve, and restore lands containing
hillsides, sensitive biological resources, coastal beaches, and sensitive coastal bluffs.
Circulation and Improvement and Open Space Agreement (CIOSA)
Some of the City's open space areas consist of dedicated lands through the CIOSA. This
agreement is between the City of Newport Beach and The Irvine Companv, and has allowed
building entitlements for The Irvine Company in exchange for payments of required proposed
projects, an interest free loan, and land for open space and *-potential senior housing sites for the
Citv. The amount of open space land dedication was substantially more than what would have
been required under the City's Park Dedication Ordinance.
Four Six sites have been dedicated under CIOSA in Newport Beach,
space area-,and include: Back Bad View Park, Newport Village (former h Newport Center Park),
Freewav Reservation, Unyer Castaways, Harbor Coveast.and Newporter Knoll Grand Grant
Deeds. Another site, located at Jamboree Road and MacArthur Boulevard will also be dedicated
as open space upon issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy for final CIOSA project.
NATURAL RESOURCES — DRAFT, 10125105 7
Archaeological and Paleontological Resources
Fossils in the central Santa Ana Mountains represent the oldest formations in Orange County at
145 to 175 million years old. Changes in geological land formations over time, brought upon by
tectonic activity, have resulted in a mix of aquatic and terrestrial fossils underlying the City. The
Miocene -age rock units (26 million years ago [mya] to 7 mya), particularly in the Newport Coast
area, are considered to be of high -order paleontological significance (6 to 9 on a scale of 1 to 10).
Other deposits found in the Newport Beach area include a variety of marine mammals, sea birds,
mollusks, and a variety of vertebrate animals typically associated with the Ice Age (2.5 mya to
15,000 years ago). Local paleontological sites, particularly near the Castaways, have yielded fossils
of Ice Age horses, elephants, bison, antelopes, and dire wolves. Also, a number of localities in the
portions of the Vaqueros formation that underlie the Newport Coast area have yielded a variety
of invertebrate and vertebrate fossils, and are also considered to be of high -order paleontological
significance. Other areas with significant fossils and known paleontological deposits include the
Banning Ranch area, which contains at least fourteen documented sites of high significance, and
Fossil Canyon, in the North Bluffs area, which is considered a unique paleontological locality.
Newport Beach also contains many significant archaeological sites. The Upper Newport Bay area
has yielded some evidence for the earliest human occupation of Orange County and date to
about 9,500 years before present. Over fifty sites have been documented in the Newport Beach
area, including the Newport Coast area and Banning Ranch, many yielding substantial
information regarding the prehistory of the City and County, and have included human burials.
At least two and possibly three distinct cultural groups inhabited the area, including the Tongva
and Acjachemem tribes, although the boundaries of their tribal territories are unclear.
Mineral Resources
Historically, drilling for oil in this part of Orange County began as early as 1904, and oil
production became the primary mineral extraction activity in and around the City. Two separate
production and reserve areas exist within the City and its Sphere of Influence: Newport oil field,
which lies within the City limits and West Newport oil field, which is located in the Banning
Ranch area. The Newport Oil Field is located in the western portion of the City, and is estimated
to have oil reserves of approximately 35 million barrels (Dlbbl) and produces approximately 55
billion cubic feet of gas. The West Newport oil field produces approximately 20.5 billion cubic
feet of gas with a daily production per oil well of approximately 5 bbl. Estimated oil reserves
within this field are approximately 728 NMI.
The concentration of active wells lies within the West Newport and Newport production areas.
As of 2002, there were approximately 68 wells (plus four injection wells) producing oil and
natural gas within the City - three gas wells in the Newport production area (out of 68 total oil
and gas wells) and 65 oil wells in the West Newport area (out of 862 total wells). Of the 65 wells
in the West Newport area, 16 are directionally drilled from onshore to offshore and 29 are
currently not used for production but have not been abandoned (classified as "shut in "). Fifteen
(not counting one injection well) of the 68 producing wells are operated by the City; 48 are
operated by West Newport Oil Company, three by Hoag Memorial Hospital, and two by South
Coast Oil.
NATURAL RESOURCES—DRAFT, 10125105 8
Thirty- -three abandoned oil wells are located in numerous sites throughout the City, concentrated
along the northwest boundary. Additionally, other than oil and gas resources, there is no active
mining within the Newport Beach area. Mineral Resource Zones (1\1RZ) within the City are either
classified as containing no significant mineral deposits (NIRZ -1), or the significance of mineral
deposits has not been determined (MRZ -3).
Section 1401 of the City's Charter does not allow new drilling, or production or refining of oil,
gas, or other hvdrocarbon substances within the City. However, the Section does not prohibit
these activities within any area annexed to the City after the effective date of the Charter if these
activities were already in operation. The City's Municipal Code does allow for slant drilling
activities for oil, gas, tar, and other hvdrocarbon substances within a designated area of Newport
Beach.
Visual Resources
Visual resources are an important component of the quality of life of any geographic area. The
City of Newport Beach is located in a unique and dvnamic physical setting and enjoys views of
the rolling green hills of Crystal Cove State Park to the east, and spectacular ocean views to the
southwest, including those of the open waters of the ocean and bav, sandy beaches, rocky shores,
wetlands, canyons, and coastal bluffs. From higher elevations within the City, views to the north
include the rolling hills of the San Joaquin Corridor, and in the distance, the Santa Ana
Mountains.
Specificallv, the City's habitat areas and open spaces are among the contributing visual resources,
including the Semeniuk Slough, North Star Beach, West Bay, Upper Newport Bay State Marine
Park (formerly Ecological Reserve) and DeAnza /Bayside Marsh Peninsula, and San Diego Creek.
Coastal views are also provided from a number of streets and highways and, due to the grid street
pattern in West Newport, Balboa Peninsula, Balboa Island, and Corona del Mar, many- north -
south tending streets provide view corridors to the ocean and bay.
Coastal canyons and gullies in the eastern portion of the City known as the Newport
Coast /Ridge area, typify the topographic landforms that render significant views of the City,
including Buck Gully, Morning Canyon, Los Trancos, Muddy Canyon, and Pelican Hill. The
City's coastal bluffs along the shoreline, facing the wetlands, and surrounding Upper Newport
Bay are also important scenic resources. Other valuable resources include the City's more than
441 acres of parkland and passive open space, including the Crystal Cove State Park, and State
Route 1, which is identified as Eligible for State Scenic Highway designation.
The City has historically- been sensitive to the need to protect and provide access to these scenic
resources and has developed a system of public parks, piers, trails, and viewing areas. The City's
development standards, including bulk and height limits in the area around the bav, have helped
preserve scenic views and regulate the visual and physical mass of structures consistent with the
unique character and visual scale of Newport Beach. Located throughout Newport Beach, the
City's many small "view parks" are intentionally designed to take advantage of significant views.
In addition, the City provides policies in the Municipal Code and Local Coastal Plan that protect
public views, which is defined as views from public vantage points. As for the City's coastal and
other bluffs, while many have been preserved as parkland and other open space, most have been
subdivided and developed over the years, including Newport Heights, Cliff Haven, Irvine
Terrace, and Corona Del Mar.
NATURAL RESOURCES—DRAFT, 10125105 9
Energy Conservation
Natural Gas. Southern California Gas Company (SCG) provides natural gas service for the City.
Natural gas is a "fossil fuel" and is a non - renewable resource. Most of the major natural gas
transmission pipelines within the City are owned and operated by SCG. SCG has the capacity and
resources to deliver gas except in certain situations that are noted in State law. As development
occurs, SCG will continue to extend its service to accommodate development and supply the
necessary gas lines.
Electricity. Electricity is provided on an as- needed basis to customers within existing structures
in the City. Southern California Edison Company (SCE) is the distribution provider for electricity
in Newport Beach. Currently, SCE has no immediate plans for expansion of infrastructure, as
most of the City is built out. However, every year SCE expands and improves existing facilities
according to demand.
GOALS AND POLICIES
Water Supply
Goal NRi Minimized water consumption through conservation methods and other
techniques.
Policy NR1.1 Continue to Enforce water conservation measures that limit water usage
during water sheFtages, prohibit activities that waste water or cause runoff,
and require the use of water - efficient landscaping and irrigation in
conjunction with new construction projects.
Policy NR1.2 Establish and actively promote use of water conserving devices and
practices in both new construction and major alterations and additions to
existing buildings. This can include the use of rainwater capture, storage,
and reuse facilities.
Poliey-NR1.3 Explore the aonFeeNateness of tieF.d water Fates.
Policy NR1.34 Explore implementation of alternative conservation measures and
technology as they become available.
Policy NR1.5 Establish educational programs on water conservation.
Goal NR2 Expanded use of alternative water sources to provide adequate water
supplies for present uses and future growth.
Policy NR2.1 Increase the use of recycled water in the City by continuing to provide
financial incentives, staff assistance, and training opportunities for
customers, and expand recycled water infrastructure and programs, when
feasible.
Policy NR2.2 Use alternative water sources for the City's water supply by implementing
advanced water treatment processes such as brackish groundwater and
seawater desalination programs, when feasible.
NATURAL RESOURCES — DRAFT, 10125105 10
Goal NR3 Recharge of groundwater resources.
Policy NR3.1 Require incorporation of natural drainage systems and stormwater
detention facilities into new developments, where appropriate and feasible,
to retain stormwater in order to increase groundwater recharge.
Policy NR3.2 Require new development and public improvements to minimize the
creation of and increases in impervious surfaces, especially directly
connected impervious areas, to the maximum extent practicable. Require
redevelopment to increase area of pervious surfaces, where feasible.
Water Quality
Goal NR4
Enhancement and protection of water quality of all natural water bodies,
including coastal waters, creeks, bays, harbors, and wetlands.
Policy NR4.1
Support the development of a model (physical and /or mathematical) of the
Bay and coastline that provides information regarding the nature and extent
of the water quality problem and enables prediction of the effects of
changes on the entire system.
Policy NR4.2
Continue to Oppose oil drilling in the offshore area to protect water quality.
Policy NR4.3
Support regulations limiting or banning the use insecticides, fertilizers, and
other chemicals which are shown to be detrimental to water quality.
Policy NR4.4
Promote pollution prevention and elimination methods that minimize the
introduction of pollutants into natural water bodies. [LCP]
Policy NR4.5
Suspend activities and implement appropriate health and safety procedures
in the event that previously unknown groundwater contamination is
encountered during construction. Where site contamination is identified,
implement an appropriate remediation strategy that is approved by the City
and the State arencv with
appropriate jurisdiction.
Policy NR4.6
Continue to Require all development to comply with the regulations under
the City's municipal separate storm sewer system permit under the
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System.
Policy NR4.7
Require that development not result in the degradation of natural water
bodies. [LCP]
Policy NR4.8
Support and participate in watershed -based runoff reduction, water quality
control, and other planning efforts with the California Regional Water
Quality Control Board R( WOCB), the County of Orange, and upstream cities.
[LCP]
Policy NR4.9
Continue to Update and enforce the Newport Beach Water Quality
Ordinance. [LCP]
Policy NR4.10
Develop and maintain a water quality checklist to be used in the permit
review process to assess potential water quality impacts. [LCP]
NATURAL RESOURCES — DRAFT, 10125105 11
Policy NR4.11 Require new development applications to include a Water Quality
Management Plan (WQMP) to minimize runoff from rainfall events during
construction and post - construction. [LCP]
Policy NR4.12 Implement and improve upon Best Management Practices (BMPs) for
residences, businesses, development projects, and City operations. [LCP]
Policy NR4.13 Include site design and source control BMPs in all developments. When the
combination of site design and source control BMPs are not sufficient to
protect water quality as required by the National Pollutant Elimination
System, structural treatment BMPs will be implemented along with site
design and source control measures. [LCP]
Policy NR4.14 Include equivalent BMPs that do not require infiltration, where infiltration of
runoff would exacerbate geologic hazards. [LCP]
Policy NR4.15 Promote the use of natural wetlands to improve water ouality
Policy NR4.1516 Retain runoff on private property to prevent the transport of pollutants
into recreational waters, to the maximum extent practicable. [LCP]
Policy NR4.1617 Require all street drainage systems and other physical improvements
created by the City, or developers of new subdivisions, to be designed,
constructed, and maintained to minimize adverse impacts on water quality.
Investigate the possibility of treating or diverting•. �; .. street drainage
to minimize impacts to water bodies.
Policy NR4.1718 Require that development be located on the most suitable portion of the
site and designed to ensure the protection and preservation of natural and
sensitive site resources that provide important water quality benefits. [LCP]
Policy NR4.1819 Require that parking lots, and public and private streetsrightsof -way be
swept- maintained and cleaned as-frequently asneeessafy -to remove debris
and contaminated residue. [LCP]
Policy NR4.1920 Effectively communicate water quality education to residents and
businesses, including the development of a water quality testing lab and
educational exhibits at various educational facilities. [LCP]
Goal NR5 Maintenance of water quality standards through compliance with the
total maximum dally loads (TMDLs) standards.
Policy NR5.1 Continue to dDevelop and implement the TMDLs established by the
RWOCB, Santa Ana Region and
guided by the Newport Bay Watershed Executive Committee (WEC). [LCP]
Policy NR5.2 Secure funding for the Upper Newport Bay Ecosystem eeesystem
Restoration resteratiawProject and long -term funding for successor
dredging projects for Upper and Lower Newport Bay.
Policy NR5.3 Preserve, or where feasible, restore natural hydrologic conditions such that
downstream erosion, natural sedimentation rates, surface flow, and
groundwater recharge function near natural equilibrium states. [LCP]
NATURAL RESOURCES — DRAFT, 10125105 14
Policy NR5.4 Require grading/erosion control plans with structural BMPs that prevent or
NATURAL RESOURCES — DRAFT, 10125105 13
minimize erosion during and after construction for development on steep
slopes, graded, or disturbed areas. [LCP]
Goal NR6
Minimal adverse effects to water quality from sanitary sewer outflows
(SSAsj.
Policy NR6.1
Continue to Implement the Sewer System Management Plan and the Sewer
Master Plan. [LCP]
Policy NR6.2
Require waste discharge permits for all food preparation facilities that
produce grease. [LCP]
Policy NR6.3
Continue to Renovate all older sewer pump stations and install new
plumbing according to most recent standards. [LCP]
Policy NR6.4
Comply with the Regional Beards RWQCB's Waste Discharge Requirements
(WDRs) associated with the operation and maintenance of the City's
sewage collection system. [LCP]
Air Quality
Goal NR7
Reduced mobile source emissions.
Policy NR7.1
RequiFedevelopmeMe Provide for walkable neighborhoods to reduce
vehicle trips by siting amenities such as services, parks, and schools in
close proximity to residential areas espeGnallY i° the Airport Are Newport
Center, and Banning Ranch.
Policy NR7.2
Support mixed -use development consisting of commercial or office with
residential uses in accordance with the Land Use Element that increases
the opportunity for residents to live in proximity to jobs, services, and
entertainment.
Policy NR7.3
Support measures to reduce vehicle -trip generation such as at -work day
care facilities, and on -site automated banking machines, and -ether
meaSUFes to reduce vehiele trip generation.
Policy NR7.4
Continue to Implement the Transportation Demand Management Ordinance
which promotes and encourages the use of alternative transportation
modes, and provides those facilities such as bicvcle lanes that support such
alternate modes.
Policy NR7.5
Collaborate with local transit agencies to: develop programs and educate
employers about employee rideshare and transit; establish mass transit
mechanisms for the reduction of work - related and non -work related vehicle
trips; and- promote mass transit ridership through careful planning of routes,
headways, origins and destinations and types of vehicles; and develop bus
shelters, bicvcle lanes, and other bicycle facilities.
Policy NR7.6
Encourage synchronization of traffic signals throughout the City and with
adjoining cities and counties to allow free flow of traffic.
NATURAL RESOURCES — DRAFT, 10125105 13
Policy NR7.7 Continue Implementing the program to replace existing vehicles in the City
fleet with the- cleanest vehicles that are commercially available that -and will
provide needed services.
Policy NR7.8 Support the development of alternative fuel infrastructure that is available
and accessible to the public, and provide incentives for alternative fuel
vehicles.
Policy NR7.9 Provide education to the public on mobile source emission reduction
techniques such as using alternative modes of transportation.
Goal NR8 Reduced air pollution emissions from stationary sources.
Policy NR8.1 Support the use of fuel efficient heating equipment and other appliances
s_eh as .vier heaters , swimming pool heaters , re frigeratersf furnaces,
...1
w ..
boiler units.
Policy NR8.2 Require the use of Best Management Practice's to minimize pollution and
Policy NR1O.232 Comply with the policies contained within the Orange County Natural
Communities Conservation Plan.
Policy NR1O.343 Continue to Protect, and prohibit development in, nature preserves,
conservation areas, and designated open space areas in order to minimize
urban impacts upon resources in identified Environmental Study Areas
(ESAs).
NATURAL RESOURCES— DRAFT, 10125105 14
to reduce source emissions.
Policy NR8.3
Provide incentives to promote siting or to use clean air technologies and
building materials (e.g., fuel cell technologies, renewable energy sources,
Palley NR8 "
IJV coatings, hydrogen fuel).
Eliminate the of blowers by the CRY, mseeu. thei-
Goal NR9
use and ge -use on afivate
i
Reduced air pollution emissions from aircraft.
Policy NR9.1
Work with John Wayne Airport to continue efficient airport operations
through high gate utilization and other methods.
Policy NR9.2
Work with John Wayne Airport to encourage development and use of
emission reduction aircraft and other equipment for- alrsfaft.
Blologlcal Resources
Goal NR10
Protection of sensitive and rare terrestrial and marine resources from
Policy NR10.1
urban development.
Be In terrestrial
lffoaGfiVe MteGfinO and Marine resetlFoes-.
Policy NR1O.321 Continue to Cooperate with the state and federal resource protection
agencies and private organizations to protect terrestrial and marine
resources.
Policy NR1O.232 Comply with the policies contained within the Orange County Natural
Communities Conservation Plan.
Policy NR1O.343 Continue to Protect, and prohibit development in, nature preserves,
conservation areas, and designated open space areas in order to minimize
urban impacts upon resources in identified Environmental Study Areas
(ESAs).
NATURAL RESOURCES— DRAFT, 10125105 14
Policy NR1O.454 Require a site - specific survey and analysis prepared by a qualified
biologist as a filing requirement for any development permit applications
where development would occur within or adjacent contiguous to areas
identified as an ESA.
Policy NR1O.565 Require that the siting and design of new development, including
landscaping and public access, protect sensitive or rare resources against
any significant disruption of habitat values.
Policy NR1O.676 Limit uses within an area containing any significant or rare biological
resources to only those uses that are dependent on such resources, except
where application of such a limitation would result in a taking of private
property. If application of this policy would likely constitute a taking of
private property, then a non - resource - dependent use shall be allowed on the
property, provided development is limited to the minimum amount
necessary to avoid a taking and the development is consistent with all other
applicable resource protection policies. Public access improvements and
educational, interpretative and research facilities are considered resource
dependent uses.
Policy NR1O.787 Maintain a buffer of sufficient size around significant or rare biological
resources, if present, to ensure the protection of these resources. Require
the use of native vegetation and prohibit invasive plant species within these
buffer areas.
Policy NR1O.898 Shield and direct exterior lighting away from significant or rare
biological resources to minimize impacts to wildlife.
Policy NR1O.9"9 Prepare natural habitat protection regulations for Buck Gully and
Morning Canyon for the purpose of providing standards to ensure both the
protection of the natural habitats in these areas and of private property
rights. Include standards for the placement of structures, native
vegetation /fuel modification buffers, and erosion and sedimentation
control structures.
Policy NR1O.101 J.0 Protect the sensitive and rare resources that are knewn to occur on
Banning Ranch by ^•°serving the site as If future development
is permitted, concentrate development to protect biological resources and
coastal bluffs, and design structures to not be intrusive on the surrounding
landscape. Require the restoration of any important habitat areas that are
affected by future development.
Policy NR1O.111211 Coordinate with County and State resource agencies to monitor
ecological conditions within the Newport Beach Marine Refuge and Irvine
Coast Marine Life Refuge and to implement management programs to
protect these marine refuge areas. Maintain public use of the refuges to the
extent it is consistent with the preservation of intertidal and subtidal
resources.
Policy NR1O.32 -13312 Support reforestation programs for giant kelp.
NATURAL RESOURCES— DRAFT, 10125105 15
Policy NR10 13 Support the construction of tide pool exhibits away from ocean beaches to
provide an educational alternative to the tide pools at Corona del Mar State
Beach and Crystal Cove State Park.
Goal NRii Protection of eelgrass meadows for their ecological function as a nursery
and foraging habitat within the Newport Bay ecosystem, balanced with
maintenance of Newport Harbor as a recreational boating resource.
Policy NRii.i Avoid impacts to eelgrass (Zostera marina) to the greatest °xtent feasible
possible. Mitigate losses of eelgrass in accordance with the Southern
California Eelgrass Mitigation Policy. Encourage the restoration of eelgrass
thfougpeuf-in Newport Harbor at appropriate sites, where feasible. [LCP]
Policy NR11.2 Geatinue to Cooperate with the County of Orange, the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers, and resource agencies to establish eelgrass restoration sites.
[LCP]
Policy NRii.3 Allow successful eelgrass restoration sites to serve as mitigation sites for
City projects and as a mitigation bank from which eelgrass mitigation
credits will be issued to private property owners for eelgrass removal
resulting from dock and channel dredging projects. [LCP]
Goal NR12 Protection of coastal dune habitats.
Policy NRi2.i Require the removal of exotic vegetation and the restoration of native
vegetation in dune habitat. [LCP]
Policy NRi2.2 Design and site recreation areas to avoid impacts to dune habitat areas,
and direct public access away from these resources through methods such
as well- defined footpaths, boardwalks, protective fencing, and signage.
[LCP]
Policy NR12.3 Limit earthmoving of beach sand in dune habitat areas to projects
necessary for the protection of coastal resources and existing development.
[LCP]
Goal NR13 Protection, maintenance, and enhancement of Southern California
wetlands.
Policy NR13.1 Recognize and protect wetlands for their commercial, recreational, water
quality, and habitat value. [LCP]
Policy NR13.2 Require a survey and analysis with the delineation of all wetland areas
when the initial site survey indicates the presence or potential for wetland
species or indicators. Wetland delineations will be conducted in accordance
with the definitions of wetland boundaries established by California
Department of Fish and Game, and /or United States Fish and Wildlife
Service.
NATURAL RESOURCES—DRAFT, 10125105 16
Policy NR13.3 Require that any Droiect that includes diking, filling or dredging of an
estuary must maintain the capacity of the wetland or estuary as required by
State and federal law.
Goal NRi4 Allowed dpilking ,
and estuaNes to Maintain and enhance esiOna -deep water channels and
ensure they remain navigable by boats.
Policy NR14.1 Support and assist in the management of dredging within Newport Bay.
[LCP]
Policy NR14.2 6entirwe to Cooperate with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in their
maintenance and delineation of federal navigational channels at Newport
Harbor in the interest in providing navigation and safety. [LCP]
Policy NR14.3 Continue to Secure blanket permits or agreements through the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers and the California Coastal Commission to expedite
permit processing for residential and commercial dock owners in the Bay.
[LCP]
- rrrav�1iWWI M -_. _ ._ .. .. - - --. .. - - •-
Policy NR14.54 Require that all structures permitted to encroach into open coastal waters,
wetlands, and estuaries be sited and designed to be consistent with the
natural appearance of the surrounding area. [LCP]
Goal NR15 Proper disposal of dredge spoils to avoid disruption to natural habitats.
Policy NR15.1 Monitor dredging projects within the region to identify opportunities to
reduce disposal costs and utilize dredge spoils for beach nourishment. [LCP]
Policy NR15.2 Participate in regional sediment management by maintaining records of the
number of channelized streams, miles of channelization in streams,
volumes of sediment extracted from stream channels and debris basins,
and the grain size distribution of the extracted sediments. [LCP]
Policy NR15.3 See::: e peNnanent use desi..natien `8- the LA 3 Work with appropriate
agencies to secure sediment disposal site for future dredging projects. [LCP]
Goal NR16 Protection and management of Upper Newport Bay commensurate with
the standards applicable to our nation's most valuable natural
resources.
NATURAL RESOURCES — DRAFT, 10125105 17
Policy NR16.21 Continue sSupport -ef and secure federal funding for the -Upper Newport Bay
iecosystem Rrestoration Rfeject -to restore the Upper Newport Bay to its
optimal ecosystem. [LCP]
Policy NR16.32 Support and implement unified management of the Upper Newport Bay
State Marine Park (formerly Ecological Reserve) by collaborating with
Orange County theand California Department of Fish and Game, non - profit
corporations with resource management expertise and volunteer
organizations to maximize-improve resources management, implement
resource enhancement projects and expand opportunities for and maintain
public access, recreation, and education.
Policy NR16.43 Assume responsibility from the County to manage, operate and maintain
the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve, including the Peter and Mary Muth
Center, such that natural resources and public education programs are
enhanced, using a combination of Public agency and private sector
personnel as well as volunteers.
Policy NR16.4 Maintain public use of the Upper Newport Bay State Marine Park (formerly
Ecological Reserve)to the extent such use is consistent with the
preservation of sensitive resources.
Policy NR16.5 €RSUFe that Promote facilities in and around Upper Newport Bay to
adequately serve as water quality and estuarine education and research
programs.
Goal NR17 Protection of environmental resources in Newport Harbor while
Preserving and enhancing public recreational boating opportunities.
Policy NR 17.1 Develop a Harbor Area Management Plan that will provide a comprehensive
approach to management of the resources of Newport Bay such as
protection of eelgrass and other natural resources, dredging for navigation
and continued use of private piers.
Policv NR 17.2 Prepare and fund a joint City /County study that would: (a) identify the
respective services provided by the City and County in Newport Harbor; (b)
determine the cost of those services; (c) identify opportunities for the City
and County to realign resources to provide services at reduced costs; (d)
identify the sources of revenue available to defray the cost of those
services; (e) identify potentially feasible methods of providing those services
other than with public agency personnel such as of volunteers.
Open Space Resources
Goal NR178 Maintenance and expansion of designated open space resources.
Policy NR37NR16.1 Protect, conserve, and- maintain esignated
open space areas that define the City's urban form, serve as habitat for
many species, and provide recreational opportunities.
NATURAL RESOURCES — DRAFT, 10125105 18
Policy NR18.2 Consider conversion of public sites designated for open space to other uses
onlv when the conversion will meet a significant need, and there are no
alternative sites that could feasibly meet that need.
ogly when the ...,,..,,,, ion will giyea a ignifiG nt p bli need, a theFe
no alternative sites that could feasibly Fneet -that ed.
Policv NR18.3 Consider opportunities to expand designated open space areas within the
I City.
Archaeological and Paleontological Resources
Goal NR189 Protection and preservation of Important paleontological and
archaeological resources.
Policy NR189.1 Require new development to protect and preserve paleontological and
archaeological resources from destruction, and avoid and minimize impacts
to such resources in accordance with the requirements of CEOA. Through
planning policies and permit conditions, ensure the preservation of
significant archeological and paleontological resources and require that the
impact caused by any development be mitigated in accordance with CEQA.
Policy NR189.2 Prepare and maintain sources of information regarding paleontological or
archaeological sites and the names and addresses of responsible
organizations and qualified individuals who can analyze, classify, record,
and preserve paleontological and archaeological findings. [Council Policy
Manual]
Policy NR189.3 Notify cultural organizations, including Native American organizations, of
proposed developments that have the potential to adversely impact cultural
resources. Allow qualified representatives of such groups to monitor grading
and /or excavation of development sites. [LCP]
Policy NR189.4 Where in situ preservation and avoidance are not feasible, require new
development to donate scientifically valuable paleontological or
archaeological materials to a responsible public or private institution with a
suitable repository, located within Newport Beach or Orange County,
whenever possible. [LCP]
Mineral Resources
Goal NR-192Q Minimized Impacts from oil drilling activities.
Policy NR1920.1 Continue to additional oil extraction activities within the City
limits but allow that existing wells be used, if needed, for water injection
systems that increase oil extraction.
Policy NR&920.2 Oppose new offshore oil drilling activities.
Policy NR&920.3 Prohibit onshore support facilities for off -shore oil drilling.
Policy NR1920.4 Encourage consolidation of existing oil and gas activities.
NATURAL RESOURCES — DRAFT, 10125105 19
Visual Resources
Goal NR2021 Preservation of significant visual resources.
Policy NR2021.1 Protect and, where feasible, enhance significant scenic and visual
resources that include open space, mountains, canyons, and - ridges ocean,
and harbor from public vantage points.
Policy NR2021.2 Require new development to restore and enhance the visual quality in
visually degraded areas, where feasible, and provide view easements or
corridors designed to protect public views or to restore public views in
developed areas, where appropriate. [LCP]
Policy NR2021.3 Protect and enhance public views from the following roadway
segment and othe. Innafinng .. ,tie ;depMflea in the fut- re
■ Avocado Avenue from San Joaquin Hills Road to Coast Highway
• Back Bay Drive
• Balboa Island Bridge
• Bayside Drive from Coast Highway to Linda Island Drive
• Bayside Drive at Promontory Bay
• Coast Highway /Santa Ana River Bridge
• Coast Highway /Newport Boulevard Bridge and Interchange
• Coast Highway from Newport Boulevard to Marino Drive (Bayshores)
• Coast Highway /Newport Bay Bridge
• Coast Highway from Jamboree Road to Bayside Drive
• Coast Highway from Pelican Point Drive to city limits
• Eastbluff Drive from Jamboree Road to Backbay Drive
• Irvine Avenue from Santiago Drive to University Drive
• Jamboree Road from Eastbluff Drive /University Drive to Bavview Way
State Route 73
• Jamboree Road in the vicinity of the Big Canyon Park
• Jamboree Road from Coast Highway to Bayside Drive
• Lido Isle Bridge
• MacArthur Ague Boulevard from San Joaquin Hills Road to Coast
Highway
• Marguerite Avenue from San Joaquin Hills Road to Fifth Avenue
• Newport Boulevard from Hospital Road /Westminster Avenue to Via Lido
• Newport Center Drive from Newport Center Drive E/W to Farallon
Drive /Granville Drive
• Newport Coast from Pelican Hill Road North to Coast Highway
• Ocean Boulevard
• Pelican Hills Road South
• San Joaquin Hills Road from Newport Ridge Drive to Spyglass Hill Road
• San Miguel Drive from San Joaquin Hills Road to MacArthur Boulevard
NATURAL RESOURCES— DRAFT, 10125105 20
• State Route 73 from Bayview Way to University Drive
• Superior Avenue from Hospital Road to Coast Highway
• University Drive from Irvine Avenue to the Santa Ana —Delhi Channel
• Vista Ridge Road from Ocean Heights to Altezza Drive
Policy NR2021.4 Design and site new development, including landscaping, on the
edges of public view corridors, including those down public streets, to
frame, accent, and minimize impacts to public views. [LCP]
Policy NR2021.5 Provide public trails, recreation areas, and viewing areas adjacent to
public view corridors, where feasible. [LCP]
Goal NR2122 Minimized visual impacts offfAn} signs and utilities.
Policy NR2 -12.1 Design and site signs, utilities, and antennas to minimize visual impacts.
Policy NR2122.2 Implement programs to remove illegal signs and amortize legal
nonconforming signs. [LCP]
Policy NR2122.3 Gent+nue-Support programs to remove and underground overhead
utilities, in new development as well as existing neighborhoods. [LCP]
Goal NR2223 Maintain Tthe intensity of development around Newport Bay Is-t bbe
consistent with the unique character and visual scale of Newport Beach.
Policy NR2223.1 Maintain the Shoreline Height Limitation Zone to protect views of the
water _ConsideFamending the boundary of this Zone here ^ bliG Views
wind n ^f be i ^ ° ^f °d. Consider amending the boundary of this Zone
where public views would not be impacted.
Policy NR2223.2 Continue to regulate the visual and physical mass of structures
consistent with the unique character and visual scale of Newport Beach-and
Bide. view .:de. s to Newport Say. [LCP]
Goal NR2324 Development respects natural landforms such as coastal bluffs.
Policy NR2324.1 Preserve cliffs, canyons, bluffs, significant rock outcroppings, and site
buildings to minimize alteration of the site's natural topography and
preserve the features as a visual resource.
Policy NR2324.2 Maintain approved bluff edge setbacks for the coastal bluffs within
the planned communities of Castaways, Eastbluff, Park Newport, Newporter
North (Harbor Cove), and Bayview Landing and neighborhoods from
Jamboree Road to Corona del Mar, north of Bayside Drive, to ensure the
preservation of scenic resources and geologic stability.
RelmGy NR23.3 Establish bluff edge seetl'eaGks based on the n.e,de mina9t line, of existing
development In each GORVentionai Fesldential ne.g lb:l:vod ro tainin
eeastal LJ„Kc ipirluding those within the n nitie. e.f L,,ine. Te.....e.e.
NGTpeR Te rghirve relF 6- /rloroc7,Vllofeomfs, and -Cameo Vf1VCcT1 eqwirca
wn bluff e.dge setback of 15 feet for the PFIAGipal building and 5 fe. e.f
NATURAL RESOURCES— DRAFT, 10125105 21
Policy NR2324.43 Require new planned communities to dedicate or preserve as open
space the coastal bluff face and an area inland from the edge of the coastal
bluff adequate to provide safe public access and to avoid or minimize visual
impacts.
Policy NR243.54 Require all new blufftop development located on a bluff subject to
marine erosion to be set back based on the predominant line of
development. This requirement shall apply to the principal structure and
major accessory structures such as guesthouses and pools. The setback
shall be increased where necessary to ensure safety and stability of the
development.
Policy NR2324.65 On bluffs subject to marine erosion, require new accessory structures
such as decks, patios and walkways that do not require structural
foundations to be sited at least 10 feet from the bluff edge. Require
accessory structures to be removed or relocated landward when threatened
by erosion, instability or other hazards.
Policy NR234. -76 Establish canyon development setbacks based on the predominant
line of existing development for Buck Gully and Morning Canyon. Do not
permit development to extend beyond the predominant line of existing
development by establishing a development stringline where a line is drawn
between nearest adjacent corners of existing structures on either side of the
subject property. Establish development stringlines for principle structures
and accessory improvements.
Policy NR234.87 Design and site new development to minimize the removal of native
vegetation, preserve rock outcroppings, and protect coastal resources.
Conservation
Goal NR245 Increased energy efficiency in City facilities and operations and In private
developments.
Policy NR245.1 Develop incentives that encourage the use of energy conservation
strategies by private and public developments.
Policy NR2425.2 Promote energy- efficient design features „' and use el:
orientation, use of lighteF Geier reefing and building deeid. shade trees and ..dl.. ak trees ♦e ed. r 1 ,
_�..........e....e ........., a °v °vv w.0 .. u.0 v.vc...� -•ee e..b
forfor heating and w el'..e.
....va'm6vw-co'�ortr�
Policy NR2425.3 Promote or provide incentives for "Green Building” programs that go
beyond the requirements of Title 24 of the California Administrative Code
and encourage energy efficient design elements as appropriate to achieve
"green building" status.
Policy NR2425.4 Provide incentives for implementing Leadership in Environmental and
Energy Design (LEED) certified building such as fee waivers, bonus
densities, and /or awards recognition programs.
NATURAL RESOURCES —D RAFT, 10125105 22
Policy NR2425.5 Allow new methane extraction activities to reduce reliance on fossil
fuels.
NATURAL RESOURCES— DRAFT, 10125105 23
"RECEIVED AFTER AGENDA
PRINTED:"
Recreation
INTRODUCTION
The City's parks, bicycle and pedestrian trails, recreational facilities, and coastal resources such as
beaches play an important role in the physical, mental, social, and environmental health of
Newport Beach residents. These facilities are important land use components in an urban
environment, providing both visual relief from the built environment and contributing to
residents' quality of life through recreation and aesthetic value.
California State Law requires that recreational issues be discussed in the General Plan. Since
1973, Newport Beach has had a Recreation and Open Space Element that was most recently
amended in 1998. With the update of this General Plan, only policies related to recreation are
included within this element, while open space policies are contained within the Natural
Resources Element.
The primary purpose of the Recreation Element is to ensure that the balance between the
provision of sufficient parks and recreation facilities are appropriate for the residential and
business population of Newport Beach. Specific recreational issues and policies contained in this
Recreation Element include: parks and recreation facilities, recreation programs, shared facilities,
coastal recreation and support facilities, marine recreation, and public access.
CONTEXT
Parks and Recreational Facilities
The City has approximately 278 acres of developed parks. Newport Beach's parklands range in
size from mini -parks such as the Lower Bay Park (0.1 acre) to the 39 -acre Bonita Canyon Sports
Park. School facilities also provide indoor and outdoor recreational opportunities m the Cite,
while greenbelts and open space areas provide passive recreational opportunities or open space
relief. These park and recreation facilities are described below. Additionallv, bikeways, jogging
trails, pedestrian trails, recreation trails, and regional equestrian trails are also available in
Newport Beach.
Park Types
Community Park. Community parks serve the entire City and are easily accessible via arterial
roads. Community parks are those with improvements such as community buildings, parking,
swimming, facilities for picnicking, active sports, and other facilities that serve a larger
population. Community Parks may have a particular theme or orientation such as active sports or
aquatic facilities.
Mini Park. Mini parks are smaller parks which may take one of two different forms. Nlost mini
parks are less than one acre in size, serve a quarter -mile radius and are located within a
neighborhood, separate from major or collector roads. Some mini parks serve the entire Cite and
are located as urban trail heads along major trails or streets.
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10125105
Neighborhood Park. Neighborhood parks serve all ages and are generally one to eight acres in
size. They are located adjacent to public schools when possible. Neighborhood parks contain a
wide variety of improvements which can include turf areas, active sport fields and courts,
community buildings, play apparatus and picnic facilities. Other improvements might include
senior centers, youth centers, and aquatic facilities.
View Park. View parks are smaller passive parks designed to take advantage of a significant view.
They are often located on coastal bluffs to focus upon ocean or bay views. 1VIost view parks are
between one -half to three acres in size and serve the entire City. View parks are generally
improved with landscaping, walkways and benches.
Greenbelt. Greenbelts in public or private ownership are included in this category. They may
include areas with some recreational facilities, although the primary function of the area is passive
open space.
Open Space. Open space includes passive and active open space areas which do not function as
public parks but do provide open space relief. Such areas may or may not be accessible to the
general public.
Public Beach. Public beaches serve a number of local and regional functions. In some
neighborhoods, beaches function as neighborhood or community, parks. Easy accessibility, lack
of entrance fees and a lack of other available parks has contributed to this function. Public
beaches all include sandy beach areas adjacent to the bay or ocean and may include active sports,
snack bars, showers, drinking fountains, restrooms, walkways, docks, benches, shade trees and
parking areas. From observation, it has been determined that active beach recreation takes place
within about 100 feet of the water's edge. Therefore, this Element treats this seaward 100 feet of
the public beaches in the City as active recreation acreage.
School. Public schools are a part of the recreation system in the City because field and
playground areas can serve the general public during weekends and after school.
Circulation and Improvement and Open Space Agreement
Some of the City's parks and open space areas consist of dedicated lands through the Circulation
and Improvement and Open Space Agreement (CIOSA). This agreement is between the City of
Newport Beach and The Irvine Company, and has allowed building entitlements for The Irvine
Company in exchange for payments of required proposed projects, an interest free loan, and land
for open space and potential senior housing sites, for the City. The amount of open space land
dedication was substantially more than what would have been required under the City's Park
Dedication Ordinance.
}pct -Six sites have been dedicated under CIOSA in Newport Beach, and include: Back Bay View
Park, Newport Village (formerly Newport Center Park), Newporter knoll Grant Deeds, and
Freeway Reservation, Upper Castaways, and Harbor Cove. Bn k n__ Vie n _l. and Freeway
R P - P M1-4iA� sry 190th developed as pai!ks, while 4te are open spaee are&-,.
Another site, located at Jamboree Road and MacArthur Boulevard, will be dedicated upon
issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy for final CIOSA project.
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10125105 2
Recreational Facilities
The City's parks contain a variety of recreational facilities, with areas available for organized
sports including soccer fields, baseball diamonds, tennis courts, volleyball courts, and basketball
courts. Recreational opportunities exist for children in many of the play areas in the City's parks.
Biking and walking trails are also popular recreational amenities. Swimming pools are available to
the public at aquatic facilities at the Marian Bergeson Aquatic Center and Newport Harbor High
School through joint use agreements with the Newport -Mesa Unified School District. Additional
recreational resources in the City include three community centers, several multipurpose
recreation centers, a senior center, and two gymnasium facilities. Private facilities, including yacht
clubs, golf courses, and country clubs are also facilities that serve residents of Newport Beach.
Sharing of Parks and Recreation Facilities
Public schools within the City under the jurisdiction of the Newport -Mesa Unified School
District contain a number of important recreation facilities. Currently, after - school recreational
use of these facilities is utilized by youth and adult residents through joint use agreements
between the school district and the City.
Parkland Dedication Standards
Parkland dedication standards associated with the Quimby Act and the Newport Beach
Subdivision Code are applicable to development in the Ciryn. As required under the State
Government Code, the Quimby Act provides for the dedication of parkland, or the payment of
fees in lieu of land, by developers as a requirement for residential development. The Act requires
the provision of three acres of park area per 1,000 persons residing within a subdivision, unless
the amount of existing neighborhood and community- park area exceeds that limit, in which case
the City may adopt a higher standard not to exceed five acres per 1,000 residents.
Chapter 19.52, Park Dedication and Fees of the City's Municipal Code provides for the
dedication of land, the payment of fees in lieu thereof or a combination of both, for park or
recreational purposes in conjunction with the approval of residential development. Newport
Beach's park dedication requirement is five acres per 1,000 persons. In -lieu fees are placed in a
fund earmarked for the provision or rehabilitation of park and recreation facilities that can serve
the subdivision. The park dedication ordinance also provides for credit to be given, at the
discretion of the City Council, for the provision of private recreation facilities within a new
residential development or for the provision of park and recreation improvements to land
dedicated for a public park. If allowed, the private facilities or public improvements are credited
against the dedication of land and /or the pavment of in -lieu fees. The ordinance is not applicable
to non - residential subdivisions.
Marine Recreation and Facilities
Throughout its history, Newport Beach has been a major marine recreational center. There are
over eight miles of sandy- beaches that provide opportunities for sunbathing, volleyball,
swimming, surfing, windsurfing and other recreational activities. Newport Bay and Harbor are
used for a wide variety of recreational activities, including boating, diving, excursions, fishing,
kayaking, paddle boarding, parasailing, rowing, sailing, swimming, and windsurfing.
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10125105 3
Coastal Recreation Opportunities
As previously discussed, public beaches serve a number of local and regional functions, while
providing the largest coastal recreation opportunity within Newport Beach. Public beaches all
include sandv beach areas adjacent to the bay or ocean and may include active sports, snack bars,
showers, drinking fountains, restrooms, walkways, docks, benches, shade trees and parking areas.
Other coastal recreation opportunities include two recreational piers, provided by the City. The
800 -foot Newport Pier is located at the end of Newport Boulevard (McFadden Place) in
McFadden Square. The 950 -foot Balboa Pier is located at the end of Main Street in Balboa
Village.
Additionallv, the City provides ten public docks in the harbor, which can be used for boat
launching and fishing. The Newport aquatic Center property is also co -owned by the City and
County, but is leased and privately operated by the Center. Located on Northstar Beach, the
Newport :aquatic Center provides an opportunity for the public and members to kayak and
canoe in upper Newport Bay as well as advanced training facilities for world -class athletes.
The County and the State own four recreational areas in Newport Beach. The privately operated
100 -acre Newport Dunes Aquatic Park provides opportunities for camping, boating, canoeing,
kayaking, swimming and other water and beach activities. The 752 -acre Upper Newport Bay State
Marine Park (formerly Ecological Reser e)and 140 -acre Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve
provide opportunities for canoeing, kavaking, horseback riding, biking, and hiking. Lastly, the
Crystal Cove State Park also provides coastal recreation opportunities with 3.5 miles of beach and
2,000 acres of undeveloped woodland which is popular for hiking and horseback riding.
Approximately 240 acres is located within the City. The offshore waters are designated as an
underwater park. Crystal Cove is used by mountain bikers inland and scuba and skin divers
underwater. The beach is popular with swimmers and surfers. Visitors can explore tidepools and
sandy coves.
Commercial areas adjacent to beaches and the bay play an important role in providing and
enhancing recreational activities. A large number of businesses provide recreational services to
residents and visitors that include charter, entertainment and excursion vessels, sports equipment
rentals, launching facilities, amusement facilities, and shops and restaurants.
Shoreline Access
The public's right to access recreational features such as the Pacific Ocean beaches, Lower
Newport Bay /Harbor, and Upper Newport Bay are important. according to the Ciry's Local
Coastal Plan, there are two basic types of public access: vertical access (access to the shoreline),
and lateral access (access along the shoreline). Newport Beach has developed an extensive system
of access to ocean beaches and the bay. Virtually all of the Pacific Ocean shoreline beaches are
public and the bay is accessible via public beaches, parks, street ends, shoreline trails, walkways
and boardwalks.
NEEDS
Although the City of Newport Beach appears largely built out, there are a number of vacant
parcels available for future development. The General Plan Land Use Element projects additional
population increases through infill development, intensification of existing uses, and annexations.
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10125105 4
Therefore, in addition to any unmet park and recreation needs of the present population, the
demand for recreation facilities will grow. In addition, the Land Use Element allows for higher
density, development within the City, where opportunities for different types of park and
recreational facilities may arise.
Specific citywide and service area needs for parks and recreational facilities, as well as marine
recreation and facilities, are described below.
Cltywlde Issues and Needs
Parks and Recreational Facilities
In June 2005, it is estimated that a total of 415.6 acres of parklands are needed within the City to
accommodate the current population of 83,130 residents (utilizing the City standard of 5 acres
per 1,000 population). As shown in Table 1, below, there are an existing total of 286.4 acres of
parks and 90.4 acres of active beach recreation within Newport Beach with a combined total of
376.8 acres. Thus, this represents a total deficit of 38.8 acres of combined park and beach acreage
citywide. Seven of the 12 service areas are experiencing a deficit in this combined recreation
acreage. Three planned parks in West Newport, Newport Center, and Newport Coast would help
alleviate the citywide park deficit.
Service Area
Park
Acres
Needed
Park
Acres
6dating
ACUM Beach
Remeadw Aeroags
Combined
Parlt/Beach
Acreage
Dellel 0
Eacess ( +)
1. West Newport
64.7
9.1
34
43.1
-2L6
2. Balboa Peninsula
25.5
6.5
44
50.5
+25.0
3. Newport Hts. at
Heights/UDDer Bav
64.3
50.2
0
50.2
-14.1
4. Santa Ana Heights
3.2
6.8
0
6.8
+3.6
5. Lower Bay
17.3
0.1
0
0.1
-17.2
6. Balboa Island
17.9
0.3
1
L3
-16.6
7. Eastbluff
31.3
71.0
0
7LO
+39.7
8. Big Canyon
13.9
0
0
0
-13.9
9. Newport Center
10.9 1
19
0
19
+8.1
10. Corona del Mar
44.4
23.9
11.4
35.3
-9.1
11. Harbor View
72.2
99.5
0
99.5
+27.3
12. Newport Coast*
50
58.1*
Privaonlyarks
0
-50
Totals
415.6 a
286.4
90.42 b
376.8
-3&8**
* Newport Coast Private Park Area is 58.1 ac. This private parkland satisfies the County park dedication standards.
--Deficit/excess acreage if no additional parks are built.
a 83,120 x 5 ac. per thousand - 415.6 ac.
Includes beach area where active recreation takes place (i.e., typically within 100 feet of the water). In addition, there
are 174 acres of passive beach open space, 136 acres of open space land in the Upper Bay Ecological reserve, and an
undetermined amount of water open space in the Upper Bay and Newport Harbor.
RECREATION - DRAFT, 10125105 5
The citywide parks and recreation facilities needs described below have been identified through
the following: (1) community surveys (administered from December 1996 to February* 1997);
(2) data shown in Table 1 (Parkland Acreage Needs); and (3) monitoring of the use of recreation
programs and facilities.
IDENTIFIED ISSUES AND NEEDS
Sports Fields. Perhaps the fastest growing recreational demand in Newport Beach is the need
for additional sports fields, especially lighted facilities available for after -work sports leagues. This
need stems from the evolving nature of sports activities, diversity of sports that residents are
involved in, growing participation of girls in a number of field sports, the lengthening of seasons
for many sports and consequent season overlap, the need for sports facilities for the physically
challenged, and the continuing high level of participation in company sports leagues such as coed
softball. Meeting this need will be a challenge because of the large amount of area required for
sports fields, the lack of suitable vacant land in the City, and the high cost of such land. In
addition, school districts are adding new teams to accommodate the diversity of sports students
are interested in, making it more difficult for the City's Recreation Department to use school
sports fields to provide public recreation opportunities.
Indoor Facilities. The community surveys emphasized the need for additional gymnasium or
other indoor sports facilities, such as for basketball, vollevball, and gymnastics. With the
exception of the West Newport Community Center, all of the current indoor facilities owned by
the City are small and consist of one or two small classrooms. There is a need for community
centers with large meeting and multipurpose rooms that can be programmed for many different
classes and activities. Additional indoor facilities should be planned for the long -term, located
preferably within a community -level park.
Community Pool Facilities. The need surveys showed a strong desire for additional adult and
youth swimming pool and aquatic sports facilities and programs. The City does not own a
swimming pool and currently offers all aquatics programs to the community at one of two high
school pools. There is a growing demand through the schools for additional aquatic programs
serving the students, thereby limiting the amount of time the City can operate programs for the
general public.
Sharing of School Facilities. Public schools within the City administered by the Newport -Mesa
Unified School District contain a number of important indoor and outdoor recreation facilities.
After- school recreational use of these facilities including playfields, swimming pools,
gymnasiums, and other facilities could be utilized by other non - school age residents of Newport
Beach to maximize the recreational opportunities available. However, as schools evolve in
function, the City's Recreation Department may lose use of these school facilities.
Other Facilities. Other identified facility needs include bike and pedestrian trails, lighted tennis
courts, dog parks, tot lots /playgrounds, golf driving range, public marine recreational and
educational facilities, and public restrooms.
Temporary Events. Temporary events such as festivals are held at parks and recreation facilities
within the City. During these events, access to and use of these facilities could be impacted.
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10125105 6
Marine Recreation and Facilities
The citywide marine recreation and facilities needs described below have been identified through
community survevs (administered from December 1996 to February 1997), through the data in
Table 1 Parkland Acreage Needs, and through monitoring of the use of recreation programs and
facilities.
IDENTIFIED ISSUES AND NEEDS
Boating Facilities. Although not as great as the need for sports fields, there is a substantial
demand for public boat launching facilities, sailing facilities, marine sanitation facilities, and guest
slips. In addition, there is a continuing high level of interest in crew rowing and outrigger
paddling activities and facilities.
Shoreline Access. Throughout Southern California, access to the shoreline is restricted to the
public due to private residential communities. Floweve Although most of the shoreline in
Newport Beach is publicly owned and accessible, there are a few private residential communities
that impede public access to and along the shoreline.
Temporary Events. Newport Beach's coastal areas have long been the venue for temporary
events, including film production, surfing contests, volleyball tournaments, runs, races, concerts,
boat shows, and other such competitions, exhibitions, and events. Also, a number of view parks
have become popular locations for large private gatherings. The nature and frequency of such
events can impact access to the shoreline and other coastal resources.
Service Areas
The City has been divided into service areas, as shown in Figure 1, for the purposes of park
planning and to equitably administer parkland dedications and fees provided by residential
development. Two of the 12 service areas within the City, Santa Ana Heights /Airport
Commercial and Newport Center, have no identified park and recreation needs, as discussed
below.
Service Area 4 — Santa Ana Heights /Airport Commercial. The population within this area is
expected to remain stable or decline in light of the Land Use Element's policies aimed at limiting
residential development under the flight pattern of John Wayne Airport. There is currently a park
surplus, and the present two -acre Bayview Park and the proximity of the Upper Bay recreation
area provide substantial recreational opportunities for this area. There is also a planned pocket
park and the City is planning a joint use community center project with the YMCA.
Service Area 9 — Newport Center. There is park surplus within this service area. The Back Bay
View Park was completed in the summer of 2005, and a new passive park, Newport Center Park,
is planned for development sometime after 2006.
Service Area 11— Harbor View. There is a sumlus in park area, and the Harbor View Service
Area contains substantial active and passive recreation facilities. The City's efforts should be
focused on maintaining and /or uperading existing facilities, such as Grant Howald Park, Arroyo
Park and Bonita Canyon Sports Park.
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10125105 7
1 •
West Newport �
rr
f.
W <� E
5
1 MILE
...... SERVICE AREA BOUNDARY
NE:,m EZ ^t
C
• East6luff/
Newport North* •.
• 8
Biq Camon/ Belcourl
Newport HeighlS/ • • • •••
Upper Bay
'o •• Newport Center !,•
5 11�
! /boa P • 6 • •• Harbor New
• • • : nfnsula 2 •• alboa.s an . • i
••.• •: 10 • ••
_ Corona CH .41ar
Figure 1
Parks and Recreational Facilities
Service Area Locations
12
Newport Coast
Service area parks and recreational facilities needs described below have been identified through
community surveys (administered from December 1996 to February 1997), through the data in
Table 1 Parkland Acreage Needs, and through monitoring of the use of recreation programs and
facilities.
IDENTIFIFD ISSUFS AND NEEDS
Service Area 1 —West Newport. Most of West Newport's recreation land is in beaches. There
is a deficit of 21.6 acres, and a need for sports fields within a new community or neighborhood-
level park. There is a future park site identified in this service area, Sunset Ridge Park which is
RECREATION—DRAFT, 10/25/05 8
designated as an active park to include ball fields, (p , picnic areas, a playground,
parking, and restrooms. If Banning Ranch is annexed into the City and is developed for urban
uses, there will be additional demand for recreation facilities by new residents of this area.
Locating an active park on Banning Ranch could help satisfy- the existing and future park needs
of the area.
Service Area 2— Balboa Peninsula. Lake West Newport, most of the peninsula's recreation
area is in beaches. This area has little vacant land for development and the population is expected
to remain stable. Although there is currently a surplus in park acreage, any future park needs can
be satisfied via the renovation and upgrading of facilities, such as those at Las ,arenas Park and
Peninsula Park. Additional active park facilities are desirable, along with support facilities such as
restrooms, showers and drinking fountains. There is also a need for additional boat launching and
mooring facilities, as well as pedestrian pathways to and along the Bay. Future development of
the City's Marina Park property could provide for the existing community center and the City's
current sailing and boating facilities on the site to be renovated and expanded.
Service Area 3— Newport Heights /Harbor Highlands. This area is largely built out and
contains several important park and recreation facilities. Substantial school recreation facilities,
including Newport Harbor High School, Ensign Junior High, Mariners Elementary, and Newport
Heights Elementary, compensate for the deficiency in total park area.
Service Area 5 —Lower Bay. This area contains Lido Isle and the Bayside Drive area and is
largely built out. ,.although there is a deficiency in park area, the service area has substantial
private recreational and boating facilities. It is also adjacent to Area 3 (Newport Heights) where
there are extensive recreational facilities. Because of these factors and the fact there is little or no
vacant land suitable for park use, the provision of additional parkland is probably not feasible in
this area.
Service Area 6— Balboa Island. This area is similar, in terms of recreation needs and conditions
with a deficiency in park area, to Area 5 above. However, Balboa Island contains more public
recreational facilities in the form of public beach area, the Carroll Beek Community Center, and
Balboa Island Park (a mini- park). The acquisition of additional parkland is probably not feasible
in this area.
Service Area 7— Eastbluff /North Ford. ,.although there is a numerical excess of existing
parkland in this area, most of the land is limited to passive use, such as Big Canyon Park.
,.additional sports fields and other active facilities will be needed to satisfy the recreational
demands from new development. However, this Service Area is adjacent to Service Area 11
Harbor View, which contains the 47.6 acre public park in Bonita Canyon that is available to all
Newport Beach residents.
Service Area 8 —Big Canyon /Belcourt. Although there are substantial private facilities, there
are no public recreation facilities in this area; thus, there is park deficiency. However, this Service
Area is adjacent to Service Area 11 Harbor View, which contains the 47.6 acre public park in
Bonita Canyon that is available to all Newport Beach residents.
Service Area 10— Corona del Mar. ,.although there is a deficiency in park area, existing active
and passive facilities should meet present and future need, provided these facilities are renovated
and upgraded to meet demand for sports fields and active recreation.
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10125105 9
-IMM NMI
FININMERFMI
Service Area 12— Newport Coast. This area is deficient in public facilities, but exceeds the City
park ratio standard if its extensive private facilities are included. Currently, there is one public
park planned for development in the future at the end of Ridge Road, and a neighborhood
community center that will include meeting and activity rooms and a gymnasium. The City's
Recreation Department has not been permitted to offer programs at the privately - owned park.
The youth of Newport Coast Service Area participate in programs outside of the sen-ice area.
GOALS AND POLICIES
Park and Recreation Facilities
Goal R1 Provision of adequate park and recreation facilities that meet the
recreational needs of existing and new residents of the community.
Policy R1.1 Require future development to dedicate land or pay in -lieu fees at a
minimum of five acres of parkland per 1,000 persons.
Policy R1.2 Require developers of new residential subdivisions to provide parklands at
five acres per 1,000 persons, as stated in the City's Park Dedication Fee
Ordinance, or to contribute in -lieu fees for the development of public
recreation facilities meeting demands generated by the development's
resident population.
Policy R1.3 Require developers of new high - density residential developments on parcels
eight acres or larger, to provide on -site recreational amenities. For these
developments, 44 square feet of on -site recreational amenities shall be
provided for each dwelling unit in addition to the requirements under the
City's Park Dedication Ordinance. On -site recreational amenities can
consist of public urban plazas or squares where there is the capability for
recreation and outdoor activity. These recreational amenities can also
include swimming pools, exercise facilities, tennis courts, and basketball
courts. Where there is insufficient land to provide on -site recreational
amenities, the developer shall be required to pay the City of Newport Beach
cash in -lieu that would be used to develop or upgrade nearby recreation
facilities to offset user demand as defined in the City's Park Dedication Fee
Ordinance.
Policy R14 Update the park fee assessed to new residential development in lieu of
dedicating park land on a regular basis.
Policy R15 Consider development of incentives such as density bonuses for private
commercial, office, and other developments to provide usable open space
such as rooftop courts, pocket parks, public plazas, jogging trails, and
pedestrian trails.
Policy R1.6 Use the following criteria when considering acquisition for parkland:
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10125105 10
a) City's identified current and projected needs for recreation and sports
facilities
b) City's needs for recreation facilities based on location of existing
facilities
c) The preservation of natural resources, historic and cultural areas
d) Ease of accessibility
e) Usability of proposed parklands considering topography and other
landform constraints
f) Consistency with established parks and recreational facility goals
g) Fiscal impact on General Fund for any immediately needed
refurbishments and on -going maintenance
Policy R1.7 In the event that surplus school sites become available for parkland
acquisition, site desirability should be evaluated using the following criteria:
a) Does the school site currently provide recreational facilities that have
been identified to meet local or community -wide needs?
b) Are other public lands in the vicinity of the school site inadequate to
meet the identified existing or foreseeable needs of the community for
recreation or open space purposes?
c) Is the school site a more economical or otherwise more feasible
alternative than other parcels which are available as potential sites in
the area?
Policy R1.8 Coordinate with the appropriate home owners association to conduct City
recreation programs on private parkland.
Policy R1.9 Continue to Use underutilized City rights -of -way located on Ocean Boulevard
and Bayside Drive in Corona del Mar as passive parks.
Policy 111.10 Provide additional park and recreation facilities, in the P&Fity order listed
below, that meet the needs as identified by direct feedback from residents,
analysis of future trends, and through observations by Recreation and
Senior Services staff.
Parks
1. Newport Center Service Area: Develop Newport Center Park as a
passive park.
2. West Newport Service Area: Develop Sunset Ridge Park, an active
park with playfields, picnic areas, a playground, and other facilities.
3. Newport Coast Service Area: Develop an active park located at the
end of Ridge Park Road; and develop a community center and a
gymnasium.
4. Santa Ana Heights /Airport Commercial Service Area: Develop a
pocket park in Santa Ana Heights, and consider acquiring the Caltrans
excess right -of -way site located at MacArthur Boulevard and SR 73 as
a park to support future residents in the Airport Area.
5. West Newport Service Area: If the Banning Ranch area is annexed into
the City, develop an active park on this site.
6. Balboa Peninsula Service Area: Develop the Marina Park site for
marine and /or expansi�recreational facilities.
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10125105
Recreation Facilities
1. Complete the Santa Ana Heights and Newport Coast Community
Centers in a manner that allows the provision of a variety of
recreational programs while meeting the needs of the community.
2. Renovate the Oasis Senior Center to continue to function as a
multipurpose senior center that meets the needs of the Senior
population.
3. Renovate the existing recreation facilities to ensure they are a safe
environment and offer quality programs and services.
Policy R1.11
Review the list of identified community park and recreation needs on a
regular basis, and update them as priorities for facilities change.
Policy R1.12
Review policies regularly for priority usage of facilities to ensure fair and
balanced assignments. Priority hierarchy shall be weighted for programs
that are inclusive in nature and provide for the recreational enrichment of
community's youth, adults, groups, and businesses. Scheduling shall be
done in a manner that accommodates both the needs of organized
activities as well as casual use by residents. Consideration shall also be
given to the proper maintenance and revitalization of facilities when
scheduling programs and activities.
Goal R2
Maintenance and preservation of existing parks and recreation facilities.
Policy R2.1
Use funding from the City's Park Dedication Fee Ordinance to enhance
existing parks and recreation facilities.
Policy R2.2
Protect public parkland from non - recreational uses; any loss of parkland
through governmental action shall be replaced in -kind.
Policy R2.3
Preserve all public beaches for public only purposes.
Goal R3
Accessible parks and recreation facilities to persons with disabilities.
Policy R3.1
Ensure that parks and recreation facilities include provisions for adequate
access for persons with disabilities and that existing facilities are
appropriately retrofitted to include such access as required by the
Americans with Disabilities Act.
Policy R3.2
Continue to Provide beach wheelchairs commensurate with demand.
Policy R3.3
Design guardrails on parks, piers, trails, and public viewing areas to take
into consideration the views at the eye level of persons in wheelchairs.
Recreation Programs
Goal R4 Provision of a variety of seasonal and year -round recreational programs
designed to meet the needs of all residents, including children, seniors,
and persons with special needs.
Policy R4.1 Provide high quality recreational services through professionally- trained
recreational personnel to program participants.
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10125105 12
Policy R4.2 Provide a variety of compatible recreational activities within a given
location.
Policy R4.3 CentinuetoProvide a variety of quality programs offered in safe and secure
environments for the community's youth that enhance and extend the
learning day, promote health and wellness, encourage expansion of skills,
and reinforce self esteem, good character, and positive behavior.
Policy R4.4 Prioritize outdoor City- sponsored youth sports programs that are inclusive in
nature, not for profit, and recreational in focus at City facilities.
Policy R4.5 Continue to Provide a variety of quality enrichment and recreational
programs for the adult population that promote health and wellness;
development and /or enhancement of skills and talents; extend learning
opportunities; promote sportsmanship; and provide unique opportunities to
engage in new activities.
Policy R4.6 Design adult programs to be self sustaining in nature, covering all direct
Policy R5.1 Utilize non -City recreational facilities and open space (i.e., Newport -Mesa
Unified School District, county, and state facilities) to supplement the to
satisfy park and recreational needs of the community. Maintain the use of
existing shared facilities, and expand the use of non -city facilities /amenities
where desirable and feasible.
Policy R5.2 Continue to Expand and maintain existing joint use agreements with
Newport-Mesa Unified School District for use of facilities that will enhance
the provision of parks and recreational facilities for residents.
Policy R5.3 Develop additional long -term, joint -use agreements with other public and
private agencies to assure recreation facilities for future generations.
Policy R5.4 Continue Maintain existing joint use of facilities for City - operated
recreational programs on City -owned properties that are used for other
purposes, as needed.
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10125105 13
expenses and administrative overhead costs.
Policy R4.7
Continue to Provide quality services and programs which meet social,
recreational and health needs of the senior population.
Policy R4.8
Continue to Maintain and form partnerships with other organizations in
order to optimize the services and programs available to seniors in this
community.
Policy R4.9
Give priority usage to senior programs before other uses are allowed in
facilities that are designated for senior services.
Shared Facilities
Goal R5
Maximized use of the community's recreational resources by
coordinating with the agencies responsible for non-city recreational
facilities and open space.
Policy R5.1 Utilize non -City recreational facilities and open space (i.e., Newport -Mesa
Unified School District, county, and state facilities) to supplement the to
satisfy park and recreational needs of the community. Maintain the use of
existing shared facilities, and expand the use of non -city facilities /amenities
where desirable and feasible.
Policy R5.2 Continue to Expand and maintain existing joint use agreements with
Newport-Mesa Unified School District for use of facilities that will enhance
the provision of parks and recreational facilities for residents.
Policy R5.3 Develop additional long -term, joint -use agreements with other public and
private agencies to assure recreation facilities for future generations.
Policy R5.4 Continue Maintain existing joint use of facilities for City - operated
recreational programs on City -owned properties that are used for other
purposes, as needed.
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10125105 13
Policy R5.5 Design public facilities to incorporate recreational elements such as
children's play areas, rooftop courts, pocket parks, and usable public
plazas.
Policy R5.6 Explore use of government -owned surplus or remnant parcels for public
park use.
Coastal Recreation and Support Facilities
Goal R6
Protection and enhancement of a wide -range of recreational
opportunities along the coast and beaches.
Policy R6.1
Protect recreational opportunities along the coast and beaches from non -
recreational uses. Where feasible, expand and enhance recreational
opportunities along the coast and beaches.
Policy R6.2
Continue to Cooperate with the State Department of Parks and Recreation,
the State Department of Fish and Game, and Orange County to protect,
expand and enhance opportunities for recreational activities at County and
State beaches and parks. [LCP]
Policy R6.3
Contiaue-te -Allow recreational commercial uses in commercial areas
adjacent to beaches and the bay. [LCP]
Goal R7
Adequate support facilities serving recreational opportunities within the
coastal zone.
Policy R7.1
Continue to Protect public coastal access recreational opportunities through
the provision of adequate support facilities and services. [LCP]
Policy R7.2
Distribute support facilities and services in coastal areas to avoid
overcrowding and overuse by the public. [LCP]
Policy R7.3
Maintain the ability to distribute, remove and relocate support facilities and
services in coastal areas in response to changes in demographics and
recreational interests while continuing to provide comparable facilities and
levels of service. [LCP]
Policy R7.4
Continue to Cooperate with the State Department of Parks and Recreation,
the State Department of Fish and Game, Orange County, and private
organizations to protect, expand and enhance support facilities and services
at County and State beaches and parks. [LCP]
Marine Recreation
Goal R8
Provision and maintenance of marine recreation related facilities that
enhance the enjoyment of the City's natural resources.
Policy R8.1 Continue to Utilize existing City marine recreational facilities, including
piers, docks, bays, beaches and educational and support facilities such as
the intercollegiate rowing facilities, marine ways and services, launching
facilities, gas and pump-out stations, parking facilities, restrooms, showers,
drinking fountains, and concessions. [LCP]
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10125105 14
Policy R8.2 Provide additional marine recreational, educational and support facilities
■ Provide a walkway connecting the Lido Village area with Mariner's Mile,
if feasible
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10125105 15
and opportunities as feasible. [LCP]
Policy R8.3
Encourage the provision of guest slips, moorings, waste pump -out stations,
and anchorages in Newport Harbor. Coordinate work with the Orange
County Harbor, Beaches, and Parks Department to provide such facilities
where appropriate and feasible. [LCP]
Policy R8.4
Provide for marine safety such as lifeguards, harbor patrol, police, traffic
and parking enforcement. [LCP]
Policy R8.5
Protect and, where feasible, expand, and enhance: [LCP]
• Waste pump -out stations
• Vessel launching facilities
• Low -cost public launching facilities
• Marinas and dry boat storage facilities
• Guest docks at public facilities, yacht clubs and at privately owned -
marinas, restaurants and other appropriate locations
• Facilities and services for visiting vessels
• Facilities necessary to support vessels berthed or moored in the harbor,
such as boat haul out facilities
• Existing harbor support uses serving the needs of existing waterfront
uses, recreational boaters, the boating community, and visiting vessels
Policy R8.6
Gontinue to Provide shore moorings and offshore moorings as an important
source of low -cost public recreational access to the water and harbor. [LCP]
Policy R8.7
Protect and enhance specific programs that utilize the harbor, bay, and
ocean such as the City's sailing program and junior lifeguard program. [LCP]
Public Access
Goal R9
Provision and maintenance of public access for recreational purposes to
the City's coastal resources.
Policy R9.1
Provide adequate public access to the shoreline, beach, coastal parks,
trails, and bay, and - acquire additional public access points to these areas
and provide parking, where possible.
Policy R9.2
Develop and implement a long -range plan for public trails and walkways to
access all appropriate commercial areas of the harbor, including: [LCP]
• Extend the Lido Marina Village boardwalk across all of the waterfront
commercial properties in Lido Village
• Provide a continuous waterfront walkway along the Rhine Channel
connecting Cannery Village and McFadden Square waterfront
commercial areas with Las Arenas Beach at 19th Street
■ Provide a walkway connecting the Lido Village area with Mariner's Mile,
if feasible
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10125105 15
■ Provide a continuous walkway along the Mariner's Mile waterfront from
the Coast Highway /Newport Boulevard Bridge to the Balboa Bay Club
Policy R9.3 As part of a uniform coastal access signing program, provide information to
direct the public to parking areas, restrooms, and other support facilities.
[LCP]
Policy R9.4 Protect public access to coastal resources from bay /harbor encroachments
such as piers, floats, and bulkheads.
Policy R9.5 Protect public access to coastal resources from private /gated communities.
Policy R9.6 Continue to Require that impacts to public access, recreation, and coastal
resources be minimized as a result from special events.
RECREATION — DRAFT, 10125105 16
Message
Malkemus, Cathy
From: Ramirez, Gregg
Sent: Tuesday, October 25, 2005 8:38 AM
To: Malkemus, Cathy
Pagel of 2
"RECEIVED AFTER AGENDA
PRINTED:"
Subject: FW: Study Session Agenda Nos SS3 and SS4, General Plan Update Policy Meeting No.2
- - - -- Original Message---- -
From: JonV3 @aol.com [mailto:JonV3 @aol.com]
Sent: Tuesday, October 2S, 2005 1:25 AM
To: Ridgeway, Tod; JHFF @aol.com; don2webb @earthlink.net; Nichols, Dick; City Council; Rosansky, Steven;
Selich, Edward; Bludau, Homer; Wood, Sharon; Temple, Patty; Ramirez, Gregg; Daigle, Leslie
Subject: Study Session Agenda Nos SS3 and SS4, General Plan Update Policy Meeting No.2
Dear Newport Beach City Council and Staff,
I would like to make comments and suggestions on the General Plan Update - Policy Meeting No. 2, Agenda Item
Nos. SS3 and SS4 at today's October 25, 2005 Study Session,
1. Page 8, second paragraph discussing six CIOSA sites, I believe there is a typographical error. "Harbor Coast"
should be "Harbor Coves" (the old Newporter North site). Harbor Coves should be plural on page 22, seventh
paragraph from the top of the page.
2. Page 10, Water Supply, Goal NR1 Minimized water consumption through conservation methods and other
techniques. Add:
Policy NR1.6 Encourage use of native and drought toleration vegetation in landscaping to reduce
irrigation needs.
3. Page 15, Policy 13.2 Wetlands. Add Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) and Coastal Commission to agencies
that regulate wetland boundaries and definitions. As a practical matter, wetland permits go through the ACOE and
Coastal Commission, which use different definitions. The Coastal Commission uses the one parameter approach
in the coastal zone as does the US Fish and Wildlife Service, while the Army Corps of Engineers uses the three
parameter approach outside the coastal zone. The sentence should then read:
"Wetland delineations will be conducted in accordance with the definitions of wetland boundaries
established by the California Department of Fish and Game, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service,
the Army Corps of Engineers and /or the California Coastal Commission ".
4. Page 18, Policy NR21.3, Add the following roadway segments that contain significant public views of the water
(ocean, bay, or harbor):
Cliff Drive from Santa Ana Ave to Irvine Ave.
Kings Road
Galaxy Drive
5. Page 19, Policy NR22.3, use the word "expand" to encourage new ways to underground utilities. Suggested
wording:
"Continue and expand programs to remove and underground overhead utilities, in new development as
well as existing neighborhoods"
10./25/2005
Message
Page 2 of 2
6. Page 19, Policy NR24.4, use LCP policy suggested modification 127: New Policy (Section 4.4.3) to conform to
the newly approved LUP. Policy should include 25 -foot setback requirement (see Addendum to NPB- MAJ -1 -04
(Newport Beach Land Use Plan), Page 3, last paragraph). The policy should then read:
Policy NR24.4 Require all new blufftop development located on a bluff subject to marine erosion to be set
back based on the predominant line of development, but not less than 25 feet from the bluff edge. Etc.
Page 28, first paragraph, add Marinapark to Las Arenas Park and Peninsula Park to satisfy park needs in
Newport Beach, which as a whole, is deficient in park space by 38.78 acres.
Page 28, Policy R1.10, add passive park uses to bullet under Parks addressing Balboa Peninsula Service Area
and correct spelling of Marinapark (it's not Marina Park), such that the bullet would read:
Balboa Peninsula Service Area: Develop the Marinapark site for expansion of recreational facilities and
passive park uses.
Thank you for considering these suggestions.
Jan Vandersloot
(949) 548 -6326
10/25/2005
5,53
to -25-5
AND
EAT IT TOO
LARRY PORTER
OCTOBER 25T" 2005
C O N T E X T Water Supply
Water supply is an mart W absolutely vital resource that
needs to must be used efficiently and in accordance with
reality_ Water service within Newport Beach is provided by
the City, Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD), and Mesa
Consolidated Water District (Mesa). Generally, Newport
Beach provides water service to approximately 13.5 square
miles of the City; IRWD serves approximately nine square
miles; and Mesa serves less than one square mile.
Domestic water for the City is supplied by both groundwater
and imported surface water. Currently, about 62 75 percent
of the water supplied to both the City and Mesa's service
area is from groundwater from the Orange County
Groundwater Basin (administered by the Orange County
Water District or OCWD), and the remaining 2-5 38 percent of
water supply is provided by the Metropolitan Water District
(MWD), which delivers surface water imported from the
Colorado River and State Water Project. This ratio can
change year to year based on the OCWD's administration of
the Basin's supply. And.iust a few months ago, the OCWD
overdrafted at an alarming rate Approximately 50 percent
of IRWD's current water supply is purchased from MWD,
with the remaining 50 percent coming from groundwater.
The future supply projection assumes that the City will
continue to produce extract groundwater and be able to
purchase lesai water from MWD, which is projected
(hopefully to meet 100 percent of the City's imported water
needs until the year 2010. Beyond that, ho efull
improvements associated with the State Water Project
supply, Z) additional local projects, 3) conservation, 4) and
additional water transfers would be needed to adequately
provide su#ase potable) water to the City. OCWD projects
that there would hopefully will be sufficient groundwater
supplies to meet any M future demand requirements in
Newport Beach. IRWD's treated and clear groundwater
supplies are also expected to be a significant source of
potable water supply in the future. ( Will This IRWD water
hw a-- IMIAR 1f _ _ ..
MWD water will be required for supplemental supply as well
as peak and emergency conditions. ( How is it known that
MWD will actually be able to supply Newport's
demands?)
In an effort to effectively manage water resources, the City's
service area participates in regional water management
programs that assist in the development of resource mixes
that balance water supply sources and meet future local and
regional water requirements.(How? What quantified
result? In addition, all service providers focus on demand
management efforts that promote efficient water use and
effective management of imported and local water supplies
through a variety of water conservation programs. For what
quantified result ?)
The City also began purchasing recycled water from OCWD
and IRWD in 1999, and has identified and approached all
cost - effective end users in the City that could potentially use
recycled water, and uses a combination of incentives to
encourage recycling. The City has maximized opportunities
for end users of recycled water and could only increase
users if a neighboring water agency provided the reclaimed
water to the City.(This would require very very expensive
infrastructure work? Who should pay?) Both Mesa and
IRWD encourage water recycling as well. Currently,
reclaimed water makes up 20 percent of IRWD's total water
supply. What about as a % of Nawnnrt'c eiinnisi71
Larry Porter Comments
I. It is not ner_pcca
term available
2.
auantatatively questionable
3. It is necessary to verify --L and closely examine all of
the SolrrnPQ "Qhrnmi mn +L.�
entitled to.
4.
"AI 1 n AITIr:On»
"pumpers" can extract a certain percentage of their
wants - but the basin is not growing with their
want. There's a horrible train wreck coming.
5. The Coloradn Rivar iQ m, * APw...:..r __ t__a _ _ ..
A
11111IIGUlOLU smoir wan
earthquake
7. Don't believe what you hear or read VERIFY
TRUST BUT VERIFY
8. YOU CAN NOT HAVE YOUR CAKE AND EAT IT TOO