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Resolution No. 7711l RESOLUTION NO. 7711 2 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF 3 VERNON APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE FINAL 2000-2005 4 HOUSING ELEMENT OF THE CITY OF VERNON AND REPEALING ALL RESOLUTIONS IN CONFLICT HEREWITH 5 6 WHEREAS, on April 18, 1989, the City Council adopted a 7 General Plan for the City of Vernon, including the Housing Element, by 8 Resolution No. 5609, as revised by Resolution No. 6109 on June 16, 9 1992; and 10 WHEREAS, Section 65588 of the California Government Code 11 requires the City of Vernon to update the Housing Elements of the 12 Vernon General Plan at least every five years to reflect a community's 13 changing housing needs; and 14 WHEREAS, the City of Vernon Final 2000-2005 Housing Element 15 ("Housing Element Update") dated February 2001 has been prepared in 16 compliance with State requirements and pursuant to the updated cycle 17 for jurisdictions within the Southern California Association of 18 Governments region and noticed for public hearing; and 19 WHEREAS, the Housing Element Update is consistent with other 20 elements of the City's General Plan and reflects the unique 21 characteristics of Vernon as a city with heavy and prolonged industrial 22 use, expansive rail lines and several hundred businesses handling or 23 storing hazardous materials; and 24 WHEREAS, the proposed Housing Element Update has been 25 referred to cities adjoining the City of Vernon, to the Local Agency 26 Formation Commission, to area -wide planning agencies and to the State 27 of California for review and comment by each such agency as required by 28 Government Code Section 65352; and 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 WHEREAS, the Housing Element Update has been approved by the State of California Department of Housing and Community Development; land WHEREAS, a draft Initial Study,and Negative Declaration 2000- 2005 Vernon Housing Element Update ("Negative Declaration") dated January 18, 2001, was prepared and circulated for public review and comment pursuant to the updated cycle for jurisdictions within the Southern California Association of Governments ("SCAG") region; and WHEREAS, public comments to the Negative Declaration have - been received and written responses to those comments have been incorporated in the Negative Declaration; and WHEREAS, the Negative Declaration has determined that the Housing Element Update will pose no adverse effects to the City of Vernon, will have no significant effects on the environment and will not individually or cumulatively have an adverse effect on wildlife Iresources; and WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Vernon has not created a separate planning commission and performs all of the functions of a planning commission as authorized by Government Code Sections 65100 and 65861; and WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Vernon held a duly noticed public hearing on February 21, 2001, to consider the adoption of the proposed Housing Element Update; and WHEREAS, the public hearing was closed and all of the comments and reports were submitted as evidence to be considered by the City Council in considering the adoption of the Housing Element Update. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VERNON AS FOLLOWS: - 2 - 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 SECTION 1: The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby finds and determines that the recitals contained hereinabove are true land correct. SECTION 2: The City Council of the City of Vernon, pursuant to State and local guidelines and the California Environmental Quality Act, does hereby certify that it has reviewed and considered the information submitted to it prior to any action on the adoption of the Housing Element Update and has determined that a Negative Declaration, a true and correct copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit "A" and made a part hereof, has been completed in compliance with State guidelines and the California Environmental Quality Act. SECTION 3: The City Council of the City of Vernon concurs with and adopts the Negative Declaration and finds that the Housing Element Update has no significant adverse effects or impacts on the environment. SECTION 4: The City Council of the City of Vernon finds that pursuant to Section 711.4 of the Fish and Game Code, the Housing Element Update will not individually or cumulatively have an adverse effect on wildlife resources and, therefore, finds that the Housing Element Update is exempt from the fee otherwise payable under Section 711.4. SECTION 5: The City Council of the City of Vernon pursuant to Chapter 3, Title 7 of the Government Code of the State of California, does hereby approve and adopt said Housing Element Update as a part of the Vernon General Plan, a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit "B" and made a part hereof, which has been approved at the public hearing and which may be corrected for typographical errors and grammatical inconsistencies. - 3 - 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 SECTION 6: The City Council of the City of Vernon does hereby find and determine that the public interest, convenience and necessity require that the Housing Element Update be adopted amending the General Plan covering the objections, principles and standards used as guidelines to develop the City as specified in Article 5 of the Government Code of the State of California, Section 65300, et seq. SECTION 7: The City Council of the City of Vernon does hereby repeal any and all resolutions, general plans or elements which have heretofore been adopted and which are in conflict with the Housing Element Update. SECTION 8: The City Clerk of the City of Vernon shall certify to the passage of this resolution, and thereupon and thereafter the same shall be in full force and effect. APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 21st day of February, 2001. ATTEST: BRUCE V. MALKENHORST, City Clerk LEONIS C. MALIXJRG, Maryor - 4 - 1 2 3 4' 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 STATE OF CALIFORNIA ss COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) I, BRUCE,V. MALKENHORST, City Clerk of the City of Vernon, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution, being Resolution No. 7711, was duly adopted by the City Council of the City of Vernon at a regular meeting of the City Council duly held on Wednesday, February 21, 2001, and thereafter was duly signed by the Mayor of the City *of Vernon. BRUCE V. MALKENHORST, City Clerk (SEAL) - 5 - EXHIBIT • Draft Initial Study and Negative Declaration 2000=2005 Vernon Housing Element Update City of Vernon Department of Community Services 4305 Santa Fe Avenue Vernon, CA 90058 Contact: Kevin Wilson, Director Community Services and Water January 2001 Consultant to the City of Vernon: CBA, Inc. Urban and Environmental Planning 747 E. Green Street, Suite 300 Pasadena, CA 91101 # 1232.00 Table of Contents Environmental Checklist Form ......................................................... 1 1. Project Title 2. Lead Agency Name and Address . ............................. ......... 1 3. Contact Person and Phone Number ......................................... 1 4. Project Location ........................ .............................. 1 5. Project Sponsor's Name and Address .......... 1 6. General Plan Designation ....... ... • ..................... • • • . • • • • • • . • • • • 1 7. Zoning ................................... ........... 1 8. Description of Project ................................................... 1 9. Surrounding Land Uses .................................................. 3 10. Other Public Agencies Whose Approval Is Required ........................... 3 Environmental Factors Potentially Affected ............................................... 3 Evaluation of Environmental Impacts .................................................... 5 References.......................................... ................... 15 Preparers of the Initial Study.......................................................... 15 Figures Figure 1 Project Location........................................................ 2 Initial Study and Negative Declaration City of Vemon i Vemon Housing Element Update Environmental Checklist Form 1. Project title: 2. Lead agency name and address: 2000-2005 Vernon Housing Element Update City of Vernon Department of Community Services 4305 Santa Fe Avenue Vernon, CA 90058 3. Contact person and phone number: Kevin Wilson, Director Community Services and Water (323) 583-8811 4. Project location: City of Vernon, located three miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles, bordered by the cities of Los Angeles, Bell, Commerce, Maywood, and Huntington Park. 5. Project sponsor's name and address: City of Vernon Department of Community Services 4305 Santa Fe Avenue Vernon, CA 90058 6. General Plan designation: Not applicable 7. Zoning: Not applicable 8. Description of project: The California State Legislature has identified the attainment of a decent home and suitable living environment for every Californian as the State's major housing goal. Recognizing the important role of local planning programs in the pursuit of this goal, the Legislature has mandated that all cities and counties prepare a housing element as part of their comprehensive General Plans. Section 65302 (c) of the Government Code sets forth the specific components to be contained in a community's housing element. State law requires Housing Elements to be updated at least every five years to reflect a community's changing housing needs. This update covers the 2000-2005 period pursuant to the update cycle for jurisdictions within the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) region. The Vernon Housing Element was last updated in 1989 and is currently being comprehensively updated to address the required update cycle for SCAG jurisdictions. Initial Study and Negative Declaration City of Vernon Vernon Housing Element Update id .N I c a E a U a The Vernon Housing Element is comprised of the following major components: • A summary of housing needs, including housing availability, housing affordability, housing adequacy, and special needs populations; • An evaluation of constraints on housing development including several environmental conditions; • A comparison of potential residential sites with economic feasibility, environmental safety, and residential service adequacy. The Housing Element is entirely consistent with other elements of the City's General Plan. The Housing Element reflects the unique realities of Vernon as a city with heavy and prolonged industrial use, expansive rail lines, and several hundred businesses handling or storing hazardous materials. The population of Vernon is approximately 90 to 95 residents; the projected population in the year 2025 is 98 persons. The Southern California Association of Governments approved a future housing need in the City of zero for the 2000-2005 planning period. Given Vernon's characteristics, the element sets forth goals and policies focusing on preserving and maintaining the City's existing housing stock, comprised of only 31 units. 9. Surrounding Land Uses: Surrounding communities include Los Angeles, Bell, Commerce, Huntington Park, and Maywood. Surrounding land uses include residential, commercial, and industrial uses. 10. Agencies Whose Approval is Required: City of Vernon Adoption of the 2000-2005 Housing Element Update ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED: The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact" as indicated by the checklist on the following pages. Aesthetics Biological Resources Hazards & Hazardous Materials Mineral Resources Public Services El Utilities/Service Systems Agriculture Resources 0 Cultural Resources Hydrology/Water Quality Noise 0 Recreation El Air Quality El Geology/Soils Land Use/Planning Population Transportation/Traffic Mandatory Findings of Significance Initial Study and Negative Declaration city of Vernon 3 Vernon Housing Element Update DETERMINATION: (To be completed by the Lead Agency) On the basis of this initial evaluation: ® I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment. and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the project have been made by or agreed to by the project proponent. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required. I find that the proposed project MAY have a "potentially significant impact" or "potentially significant unless mitigated" impact on the environment, but at least one effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and 2) has been addressed my mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed. El I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further is required. re Date S /7U� t✓ K6 ✓i.t/ klle Sew Printed Name Initial Study and Negative Declaration City of Vemon 4 Vemon Housing Element Update EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS: Issues: Less Than Significant Potentially Significant With Mitigation Less Than Significant No Impact Incorporation Impact Impact I. AESTHETICS. Would the project: ❑ a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista. 0 El b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway'? 0 El c) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings? ❑ d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the areal (a through d) The proposed project includes the adoption of the 2000-2005 Housing Element Update. The project does not propose development nor recommend that any housing be built during the 2000-2005 planning period. No impact will result. II. AGRICULTURE RESOURCES: In determining whether impacts to agricultural resources are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to the California Agricultural Land Evaluation and Site Assessment Model (1997) prepared by the California Department of Conservation as an optional model to use in assessing impacts on agriculture and farmland. Would the project: El 0 a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to a non-agricultural use? b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract? c) Involve other.changes in the existing environment which, due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of Farmland to a non-agricultural use? (a through c) The project area does not contain prime farmland, unique farmland, or farmland of state-wide importance. The project site is located within an urban area and is zoned for a variety of industrial uses. No Williamson Act contracts have been executed in the project area. The project will not involve any changes to the existing environment that could result in conversion of farmland to non-agricultural use. No impact will result. III. AIR QUALITY: Where available, the significance criteria established by the applicable air quality management or air pollution control district may be relied upon to make the following determinations. Would the project: Initial Study and Negative Declaration City of Vernon 5 Vemon Housing Element Update Less Than Issues: Significant Potentially Significant With Mitigation Less Than Significant No Impact Incorporation Impact Impact a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan'? ❑ b) Violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation? Elc) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is non -attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard (including releasing emissions which exceed quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors? d) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations? 0 ❑ e) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial . number of people? (a through e) The proposed project will not result in an increase in any development within the City. No impact to air quality issues will occur as a result of the proposed project. IV. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES. Would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or US Fish and Wildlife Service? c) Have a substantial adverse effect on federally . protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means? d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites? El e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? Initial Study and Negative Declaration City of Vernon 6 Vernon HousingElement Update Issues: Less Than Significant Potentially Significant With Mitigation Less Than Significant No Impact Incorporation Impact Impact f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation? (a through f) The project proposes no new residential development within the City. Vernon is highly urbanized with industrial uses and rail lines traversing the City. No impact will result. V. CULTURAL RESOURCES. Would the project: ❑ a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource as defined in § 15064.5? Cl El b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to § 15064.5? El 0 c) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature? d) Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries? (a through d) The proposed project does not include any new development nor involve revisions to development standards that would impact cultural resources. No impact will result. VI. GEOLOGY AND SOILS. Would the project: a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial ❑ ❑ ❑ adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving: See items i through iv below. ❑ ❑ ❑ i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area based on other substantial evidence of a known fault? Refer to Division of Mines and Geology Special Publication 42. ❑ ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? ❑ ❑ iii) Seismic -related ground failure, including liquefaction? 0 ❑ ❑ iv) Landslides? b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? initial Study and Negative Declaration City of Vemon 7 Vemon Housing Element Update Issues: Less Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporation Impact Impact c) Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project, and potentially result in on- or off - site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse? d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1-B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial risks to life or property'? e) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative waste water disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of waste water? ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ (a through e) No active faults or Alquist-Priolo fault zones are known to traverse the city. The proposed project does not involve any physical development activity and therefore will not result in an impact related to geologic problems including fault rupture, seismic ground shaking, liquefaction, landslides, soil runoff, unstable soils, and expansive soils. No impact will result. VII. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS. Would the project: a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials? b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment? c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one -quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? ❑ ❑ (a through d) The proposed Housing Element does not involve any additional development. The Housing Element addresses the existence of hazardous materials within the City through occupancy of City -owned units by public safety personnel. The Element sets forth a program for housing maintenance of City -owned units (26 of the total 31 units are City -owned). City code enforcement activities are undertaken for the few privately -owned ..n;tc t,% nnenrP the health and zafety of the Citv residents. No impact will result. e) For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? City of Vemon ❑ ❑ Initial Study and Negative Declaration g Vemon Housing Element Update Issues: Less Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporation Impact Impact f) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area'? (e and f) The proposed project area does not contain a public airport and is not in the vicinity of a private airstrip. No impact will result. g) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? h) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where residences are intermixed with wildlands'? (g and h) The proposed project will not impair implementation of an adopted emergency response plan. The project is located in an urban area, and is not located adjacent to wildlands. The project will not expose proposed people to the potential risk of fire. The Housing Element encourages maintenance of the City -owned existing of the privately owned residential units within the city. No impact will housing stock and code enforcement result. VIII. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY. Would the project: a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements'? El b) Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering of the local groundwater table level (e.g., the production rate of pre-existing nearby wells would drop to a level which would not support existing land uses or planned uses for which permits have been granted)? El rl c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, in a manner which would result in substantial erosion or siltation on - or off -site? d) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, or substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or off - site? El El Z e) Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff? f) Otherwise substantially degrade water quality? Q Initial Study and Negative Declaration City of VemoIn 9 Vernon Housing Element Update Less Than Issues: Significant Potentially Significant With Mitigation Less Than Signincant No Impact Incorporation Impact Impact g) Place housing within a 100-year flood hazard area as mapped on a federal Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation map? d t turesEl ❑ h) Place within a 100-year flood hazar area s rue which would impede or redirect flood flows? ❑ i) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving flooding, including - flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam? ❑ j) Inundation of seiche, tsunami, or mudflow? Lai (a through j) The proposed project does not include physical development; therefore, no impact to hydrology and water quality will result. No impact will result. IX. LAND USE AND PLANNING. Would the project: ❑ a) Physically divide an established community? b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the project (including, but not limited to the general plan, specific plan, local coastal program, or zoning ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation 0 El plan or natural community conservation plan? (a through c) The proposed project involves adopting the 2000-2005 Housing Element. It will not physically divide an established community. As an element of the General Plan, the Housing Element will not conflict with any General Plan goal or policy, but is consistent with the remainder of the General Plan. No habitat conservation plans or natural community conservation plans exist in the project area. No impact will result. X. MINERAL RESOURCES. Would the project: ❑ a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral 0 resource that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state? El 21 b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally - important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan or other land use plan? (a and b) The proposed project will not result in the loss of known mineral resources. No impact will result. XI. NOISE. Would the project result in: IVI a) Exposure of persons to or generation of noise levels in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies? Initial Study and Negative Declaration City of Vemon 10 Vernon Housing Element Update Issues: Less Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporation Impact Impact b) Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive ground borne vibration or ground borne noise levels? ivi c) A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise El levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? d) A substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? e) For a project located within an airport land use plan 0 a or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? 04 f) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? (a through f) The proposed project does not include any development and will not generate any noise, ground borne vibration, or ground borne noise. No impact to ambient noise levels will result. The proposed project area does not contain an. airport and is not in the vicinity of a private airstrip. No impact will result. XII. POPULATION AND HOUSING. Would the project: IVI a) Induce substantial population growth in an area, El ICA either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of roads or other infrastructure)? El V-11 b) Displace substantial numbers of existing housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? c) Displace substantial numbers of people, kci 'necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? (a through c) The proposed project does not involve any housing development. It will not alter the location or increase the City's population. The City's population is projected to increase by three to eight people by the year 2010 and remain constant through 2025. The Housing Element provides for the conservation and improvement of the City's existing housing stock, and does not displace housing in the City. No impact will result. Initial Study and Negative Declaration City of Vernon 11 Vernon Housing Element Update Issues: Less Than Significant Potentially with Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporation Impact Impact XIII. PUBLIC SERVICES a) Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered government facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the public services: Fire protection? Police protection? Schools? Parks? Other public facilities? ❑ ❑ ❑ivi IVI ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ The proposed project does not include physical development; therefore, additional demand will not be generated for fire protection, police protection, schools, parks, or other public facilities. New or physical alteration to existing facilities will not be required. No impact will result. XIV. RECREATION El a) Would the project increase the use of existing ❑ neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated? b) Does the project include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment? (a and b) The proposed project will not increase the use of existing neighborhood facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities. No impact will result. XV. TRANSPORTATION/TRAFFIC. Would the project: a) Cause an increase in traffic which is substantial in ❑ ❑ relation to the existing traffic load and capacity of the street system (i.e., result in a substantial increase in either the number of vehicle trips, the volume to capacity ratio on roads, or congestion at intersections)? b) Exceed, either individually or cumulatively, a level 13 ❑ ❑ of service standard established by the county congestion management agency for designated roads or highways? ►s1 /r1 /-/ Initial StWy and Negative Declaration City of Vernon !2 Vemon Pulsing Element update Less Than Issues: Significant Potentially With Less Than No Significant Mitigation Significant Impact Incorporation Impact Impact c) Result in a change in air traffic patterns, including either an increase in traffic levels or a change in .L-. 7„ c„hctnntinl safety risks? d) Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? e) Result in inadequate emergency access? f) Result in inadequate parking capacity? g) Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or program supporting alternative transportation (e.g., bus turnouts, bicycle racks)? ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑rut ❑ ❑ ❑ IVI (a through g) The proposed project will not generate traffic in the area as no new development is proposed. The proposed project involves adoption of the 2000-2005 Housing Element that does not involve air traffic patterns. The proposed project does not include any design changes to the local roadway network or introduce incompatible uses. The proposed project does not include any physical development and therefore will not result in inadequate emergency access or parking capacity. The proposed project does not conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs supporting alternative transportation. No impact will result. XVI. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS. Would the project: lVi ❑ ❑ ❑ a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board? ❑ b) Require or result in the construction of new water or wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing significant environmental effects? ❑ ❑ El Require or result in the construction of new storm water drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? ❑ ❑ Lai d) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project from existing entitlements and resources, or are new or expanded entitlements needed? ❑ ❑ ❑ e) Result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider which serves or may serve the project that it has inadequate capacity to serve the project's projected demand in addition to the provider's existing commitments? ❑ ❑ ❑ f) Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the project's solid waste disposal needs? ❑ ❑ g) Comply with federal, state, and local statutes and regulations related to solid waste? Initial Sttxiy and Negative Declaration City of Vernon 13 Vernon Housing Element Update Less Than Issues: significant Potentially With Less Than significant . Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporation Impact Impact (a through g) The project does not propose any development and, therefore, will not generate wastewater, storm water runoff, or solid waste. No new facilities will be needed. No impact will result. XVII. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE ❑ El Does the project have the potential to degrade the El quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal, or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or ivi prehistory? El Does the project have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? ("Cumulatively considerable" means that the incremental effects of a project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects)? ❑ a c) Does the project have environmental effects which will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? (a through c) The Housing Element of the Vernon General Plan is a five-year policy document established to address the State's housing goal of attaining a decent home and suitable living environment for every resident. The Housing Element itself does not provide for additional growth in the community, nor does it recommend any new housing development during the 2000-2005 planning period. Therefore, the Housing Element does not impact the natural or man-made environment of the community. Initial Study and Negative Declaration City of Vernon 14 Vernon Housing Element Update References 1. City of Vernon Draft Housing Element, December 2000. 2. City of Vernon General Plan, December 1992 (revised). 3. City of Vernon Master Environmental Assessment, February 1989. 4. Draft Environmental Impact Report for the Vernon Industrial Redevelopment Project, March 1990. Preparers of the Initial Study Lead Agency City of Vernon Department of Community Services 4305 Santa Fe Avenue Vernon, CA 90058 Contact: Kevin Wilson, Director Community Services and Water (323) 583-8811 Consultants to the Agency CBA, Inc. Urban and Environmental Planning 747 East Green Street, Suite 300 Pasadena, CA 91101 phone: (626) 304-0102 fax: (626) 304-0402 www.cbaplanning.com Karen Warner, AICP Project Manager Lori Peat Urban/Environmental Planner Responsibility: Overall project management, housing element preparation and environmental analysis. Initial Study and Negative Declaration City of,Vemon 15 Vemon Housing Element Update EXHIBIT is CITY. 0--F-VERNON own mwpmmwvnwl-w 0 FINAL 2000-2005 Housing Element February 2001 CITY OF VERNON FINAL 2000-2005 HOUSING ELEMENT February 2001 Vernon General Plan February 2001 TABLE OF CONTENTS Page Housing Element 1.0 Introduction ...................................... ............I 1.1 State Requirements ................................................. 1 1.2 Relation to Other General Plan Elements ................................ 3 1.3 Sources of Information .............................................. 4 1.4 Public Participation................................................. 4 2.0 Housing Plan ......................................................... 6 2.1 Summary of Housing Needs ........................................... 6 2.2 Constraints on Housing Development .................................. 13 2.3 Housing Opportunities .............................................. 22 3.0 Goals, Policies and Programs ........................................... 31 3.1 Goals and Policies ................................................. 31 3.2 Programs ........................................................ 33 3.3 Redevelopment Agency Housing Requirements .......................... 34 Appendix - Correspondence from U.S. Bureau of the Census Housing Element i 1 1—` Vernon General Plan February 2001 LIST OF TABLES Table Page H-1 Projected Population and Housing Growth, City of Vernon 2000-2025 ........ 6 H-2 Housing Characteristics 2000 ...... • • • • • • ........................ • • • . 7 H-3 Units in Structure/Housing Tenure 2000 .... • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 8 H-4 Income and Rent Limits for Assisted Housing, n • 9 HUD Fiscal Year 2000........................................... H-5 Characteristics of Unimproved and Underutilized Sites in Vernon, ...24 November 2000 ............................................... H-6 Locational Characteristics of Unimproved and Underutilized 26 Sites in Vernon, November 2000 .......... ....... .... H-7 Residential Service Characteristics of Unimproved and Underutilized 29 Sites in Vernon, November 2000 ........ ........................ . LIST OF FIGURES Figure H-1 Regional Location Map.............................................2 H-2 Hazardous Material Sites ........................................... 15 H-3 Noise Contours ................................................... 18 H-4 Major Transportation Corridors .................. • ... • • • • • • • • • • • • • • .. 20 H-5 Inventory of Unimproved and Underutilized Sites in Vernon ............... 23 Housing Element ii HOUSING ELEMENT 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 State Requirements Vernon General Plan February 2001 Vernon is located near the geographic center of Los Angeles County. The City is bounded on the north and west by Los Angeles, on the east by Commerce and Bell, and on the south by Huntington Park and Maywood. Vernon is three miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles (Figure H-1), and 15 miles north of major harbor and port facilities in San Pedro and Long Beach. As in any city with much industry and many jobs, the City of Vernon must be concerned with housing. Proximity of housing to jobs is important to both employers and employees. The availability of adequate housing is an important aspect of planning for the long-term viability of the City and its businesses. The California Government Code is very specific concerning the preparation and content of a housing element. It is the only element which must be reviewed by the State for completeness and compliance with the law before it is adopted. The element examines existing conditions and, through analysis, identifies housing needs and presents programs to meet those needs. The legislature has deemed that the Housing Element is the appropriate mechanism to implement State-wide goals regarding the provision of decent and suitable housing for all persons. The Government Code also makes it clear that the provision of affordable housing is the responsibility of all local governments and that they, using vested powers, should make a conscious effort to see that there are housing opportunities for all income groups (Section 65580). The intent of the State housing element requirements is based on the following concerns (Section 65581): l . Local governments should recognize their responsibilities in contributing to the attainment of the State's housing goals; Housing Element 1 � 0 � *� 01 W ate.. V cr)""j LAm a 0 a� Vernon General Plan February 2001 2. Cities and counties should prepare and implement housing elements coordinated with State and federal efforts in achieving the State's housing goals; 3. Each local jurisdiction should participate in determining the necessary efforts required to attain the State's housing goals; and 4. Each local government must cooperate with other local governments to address regional housing needs. This Housing Element was prepared in compliance with State requirements, and covers the required 2000-2005 period for jurisdictions in the SCAG region. Many of the goals and programs which are desirable and even typical of Housing Elements throughout the state are not feasible in Vernon. The noise, dust, vibration and toxic or chemical wastes and odors from local industry (many of which operate around the clock) serve as a deterrent to housing development in the City. Moreover, housing should not be encouraged in close proximity to heavy industry for health and safety reasons. Therefore, the Housing Element reflects the unique realities of the City of Vernon. 1.2 Relation to Other General Plan Elements The City of Vernon General Plan is comprised of the following six elements: • Land Use; • Infrastructure; • Housing; • Safety; • Natural Resources; and • Noise. The Housing Element is being updated at this time in conformance with the 2000-2005 update cycle for jurisdictions in the SCAG region. The Housing Element builds upon the other General Plan elements and is entirely consistent with the policies and proposals set forth by the Plan. As portions of the General Plan are amended in the future, the Plan (including the Housing Element) will be reviewed to ensure that internal consistency is maintained. Housing Element 3 5 1.3 Sources of Information 1.4 Public Participation Vernon General Plan February 2001 The City of Vernon consists of a single Census Tract, 5324.00. Within Census Tract 5324.00, three Block Groups (BG 2, BG 4, and BG 9), fall within the city limits. The 1990 census originally incorrectly attributed Census Tract 5323.01, BG 7 to the City of Vernon, as well as seven units within Census Tract 5324 BG 2 which fall outside the City limits. The City requested a revision from the Census Bureau, and subsequently received an adjustment to its housing unit and population totals (30 housing units, 82 population - refer to Appendix A hereof for a copy of the Census Bureau letter). However, the Census Bureau did not revise the detailed housing and population characteristics for the City of Vernon. Therefore, the analysis contained in the Housing Element which is derived from the 1990 census is conducted at the block group level, and is adjusted herein to the City's correct population and housing unit totals (31 units, 95 population). In addition, because of the City's extremely limited housing stock, combined with the fact that the City owns 26 of these units, original data from the City on housing characteristics is utilized where available in place of the census. The following documents serve as supplemental material to the Vernon Housing Element and represent background reference material supporting this Element and are incorporated by reference: 1. City of Vernon RHNA Appeal letter (addressed to Zev Yaroslvsky, SCAG Regional Council President), January 13, 2000 2. Population, Household, and Employment 2010-2025 forecasts for Gateway Cities COG Subregion, February 9, 2000. 3. Housing market and conditions information is provided by the City. Section 65583 (c)(6)(A) of the Government Code states, "The local government shall make a diligent effort to achieve public participation of all economic segments of the community in the development of the housing element, and the program shall describe this effort." Housing Element 4 M Vernon General Plan February 2001 The City Council has not created a separate Planning Commission, so that all public hearings are conducted before the Council. For purposes of this Housing Element, community residents will be provided the following opportunities to review and comment on the Draft Element prior to adoption. The Draft Element will be available for review in the City's Community Services Department, and will be provided to adjacent jurisdictions and placed in local libraries. Copies will be made available on request to any person at a nominal charge. Upon- receipt of comments from the State Department of Housing and Community Development on the Draft Element, the City Council will conduct f a public hearing on the Element. Notice will be published in the local newspaper, will be posted in the City, and will be mailed to 4 those who have a. request for notice on file in advance of the r hearing. i I. k l I i Housing Element 5 Vernon General Plan February 2001 2.0 HOUSING PLAN 2.1 Summary of Housing Needs Population City records indicate Vernon's housing stock and related resident and Housing population base has undergone little change since 1980. The City Trends had a 1980 housing stock of 35 dwelling units, supporting a resident population of 85 persons. Only one residential unit has been constructed since that time. Several substandard residential units have been removed from the housing stock, including three units in 1984, one unit in 1985, and one in 1992, bringing the current unit count to 31. These housing units are located in pockets throughout the City, although most are located west of Downey Road. Since 1980, the resident population has ranged between 77 and 95 persons, with the current population estimated by the City to be between 90-95 persons. 2000 The Gateway Cities Council of Governments (COG), of which Vernon is a part, has developed population, housing and employment forecasts through the year 2025. These forecasts have been developed as part of the subregion's input to SCAG for the Regional Comprehensive Plan. As illustrated in Table H-1, Vernon's housing stock is projected to remain at a constant 31 units, while population is expected to marginally increase to 98 persons by the year 2010, as family composition changes and housing units turn over through time. Table H-1 City of Vernon Projected Population and Housing Growth 2000-2025 2010 Population I Housing I Population I Housing Units Units 90-95 I 31 98 31 Source: Gateway Cities COG Report, 2/09/00 2020 Population Housing 98 31 2025 Population I Housing 98 1 31 Housing Element 6 Vernon General Plan February 2001 Housing Households Characteristics In 2000, the City has documented a total of 28 households or occupied housing units (see Table H-2) with a resident population estimated at 90 to 95 persons. Average household size is 3.4 persons per unit. The housing stock is not projected to decline over the next twenty years, and any growth in population will be nominal. The City does not expect to experience any increase in the number of persons per household. Housing vacancy is low in the City, with only three units currently unoccupied. Table H-2 Housing Characteristics 2000 31 Total Housing Units 28 Occupied Units/Total Households 3.4 Average Household Size 20 Family -Headed Households 95 Total Population Source: City of Vernon, Community Services Department, November, 2000. Table H-3 presents City -collected data on housing tenure (owner/renter) and housing units per structure. Of the total 31 housing units in Vernon, 25 are renter occupied, three are owner occupied, and three are vacant. Compared with the statewide figure of 45 percent, Vernon has a significantly higher proportion (89 percent) of renter households. The majority of Vernon's housing stock is comprised of single family dwellings, with only one apartment building located in the City. The City owns 84 percent of the total housing stock: 26 dwelling units, 18 of which are single family dwellings and one of which is an 8-unit apartment building. The City rents most of these units to public safety personnel, such as fire, police, street maintenance, and utility operators, to ensure the availability of such personnel in case of emergency. Housing Element 7 f tt Vernon General Plan February 2001 Table H-3 Units in Structure/Housing Tenure 2000 Total Owner Occupied Renter Occupied Vacant Units Total Housing Units 31 3 25 3 Detached Single Family 19 1 15 3 Attached/Non-Residential 2 1 1 0 Duplex 2 1 1 0 Apartments 8 0 8 0 Mobile Home 0 0 0 0 Source: City of Vernon, Community Services Department, October 2UUu Housing Condition A windshield survey was conducted in 1996 of Vernon's housing stock to assess housing conditions. Although the housing stock is older (largely built before 1950), it is in generally good repair. The survey determined that all 31, or 100% of the housing stock in Vernon, are well maintained and in good condition. One unit which had fallen into disrepair, was demolished by its owner in 1992.. A major reason for the unusually good quality of housing conditions in Vernon is the City's ownership of 84 percent of the housing stock, and responsibility in maintaining these units. Upon vacancy of a City -owned housing unit, the City conducts any needed repairs and upgrades. The great demand for industrial space in the City means that unnecessary or poorly maintained units are unlikely to remain unless acquired by the City. Housing Affordability Because the City's resident population is so small, its household needs are negligible when traditional needs analysis methods are applied. According to 1990 census data, one-third of the family households in Vernon have low (80 percent NM) to very low incomes (50 percent NMI) in comparison to Los Angeles County median household income of $38,000 for the same period. However, due to the fact that the City owns and rents most of the housing at unusually low monthly rents, housing overpayment is very limited. City -owned apartments and houses rent at levels Housing Element 8 f Vernon General Plan February 2001 affordable to very low income (50% NIFI) households. Rental rates are well below the maximum affordable rents established by HUD for assisted housing in Los Angeles County which are summarized in Table H-4 Income and Rent Limits standards Assisted for Housing. Nevertheless, using State a housing overpayment of more than 30 percent of gross monthly income,199O census data indicated housing overpayment by four households within the City. However, based on the City's knowledge of the income levels of public safety personnel occupying City -owned units, it would appear that households located outside of the city limits but included in 1990 census statistics for Census Tract 5324.00, BG2 may have incorrectly skewed this data. Table H-4 Income and Rent Limits for Assisted Housing HUD Fiscal Year 2000 Family Size Very Low Income Low Income Moderate Income Occupancy Income Limits Small Family (3persons) $23,450 $37,500 $56,250 Large Family (5 persons) $28,150 $45>000 $67,500 Maximum Rent EE ,306 Small Family (3 persons) $486 $838 $1 Large Family (5 persons) $554 $975 $1,538 Notes: Very Low Income = 50% of LA County median income; Low Income = 80%; Moderate Income = 120%. Los Angeles County median income for family of four - $52,100 (3-00). Published by HUD. Rents include $100/month utility costs for small families, $150/ month for large families Special Needs Certain segments of the population may have a more difficult Groups time finding decent, affordable housing due to special circumstances. The Housing Element is required to evaluate the following special needs households: elderly, handicapped persons, large families, female -headed households and the homeless. Due to the small size of the City's total resident population, the magnitude of households in Vernon with special needs is very small. Housing Element 9 Vernon General Plan February 2001 Elderly The special needs of many elderly households result from their lower, fixed incomes, physical disabilities, and dependence needs. Vernon currently has an estimated nine residents age 65 or above, representing 10% of the total population. The proportion of elderly persons in Vernon is likely to remain low as the majority of the City's limited housing stock is occupied by working -age, public safety personnel. Handicapped As of November 2000, City data iridicates that two persons living in Vernon have disabilities which would likely affect their housing needs. The City's heavily industrial environment presents added constraints to the handicapped. Large volumes of street and rail traffic, and delays caused by trains and parked trucks additionally limit the maneuverability of handicapped individuals. In order to address the needs of its handicapped residents and employees, the City enforces requirements for handicapped accessibility in new construction, and has undertaken a program to install curb ramps for wheelchairs. The City will continue in its efforts to provide equal access to jobs and public facilities for the handicapped. Large Families/ Overcrowding Large families are identified as a group with special housing needs based on the limited availability of adequately sized, affordable housing units. Large households are often of lower income, often resulting in the overcrowding of smaller dwelling units and in turn accelerating unit deterioration. Current (2001) City data indicates that four of the total 28 occupied households in the City had 5 or more members. The City's industrial character presents similar disadvantages forfamilies with children as it does for the handicapped. Access to residential services, such as education, recreation and local retail goods and services, is along roadways with high levels of truck traffic, railroad crossings and loading activities. These conditions make pedestrian access to residential service facilities difficult and unsafe, particularly for children. In terms of household overcrowding (defined as greater than 1.01 persons per room), a current (2001) occupancy survey identifies only one overcrowded unit among the 28 occupied households in the City. While this particular unit meets the census definition of Housing Element 10 Vernon General Plan February 2001 overcrowding, it is not considered severely overcrowded as it has four separate rooms with five occupants. Household overcrowding is not a significant issue in Vernon, due in large part to the limited presence of large family households, and City ownership of the majority of the housing stock. Female -Headed Households Female -headed households tend to have low incomes, thus limiting housing availability for this group. 1990 census data indicated that there is one female -headed household in the City. The housing needs of female -headed households of lower income can be addressed through the continued provision of affordable housing, as well as through affordable day care options. Homeless Throughout the country, homelessness has become an increasing problem. Factors contributing to the rise in homelessness include the general lack of housing affordable to low and moderate income persons, increases in the number of persons whose incomes fall below the poverty level, reductions in public subsidy to the poor, and the de -institutionalization of the mentally ill. City records indicate that there are few homeless persons or families in Vernon. This is likely due to the City's industrial environment, and its lack of social and residential servigs. Because there are few homeless in Vernon, the development of a separate emergency shelter is not warranted. If necessary, the City can address the needs of homeless in the area by supporting nearby shelters such as the Salvation Army shelter located in the adjacent City of Bell. The Bell shelter is a regional emergency shelter offering overnight accommodations and other services to the homeless. The shelter provides a daily shuttle service to its facility, with pick ups at the Salvation Army headquarters in Huntington Park, Hollywood, East Los Angeles, Compton and Long Beach. Services provided include overnight lodging, food, and use of shower and laundry facilities. These emergency services are available to homeless individuals and families on a per night basis, with the shelter able to accommodate a total of 250 persons. Future Housing State law requires jurisdictions to provide for their fair share of Needs regional housing needs. The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) determines the projected housing needs for jurisdictions in Southern California, and designates the number of Housing Element 11 Vernon General Plan February 2001 households the City will be expected to accommodate during this period. Future housing needs reflect the number of new units needed in a jurisdiction (future demand), plus an adequate supply of vacant housing to assure mobility and new units to replace losses. These needs were forecast by the (2000-2005) Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA), which considered on a regional and local level: market demand for housing, employment opportunities, availability of suitable sites and public facilities, commuting patterns, type and tenure of housing need, and housing needs of farm workers. In November, 2000, SCAG adopted the final 2000-2005 RHNA which included a future housing need of zero (0) in the City of Vernon, consistent with the City's RHNA allocation for 'the 1989-1994 period. Future housing growth has been deemed inappropriate in Vernon due to the City's pervasive industrial environment, and land use incompatibilities related to hazardous materials storage and processing, background contamination, noxious odors, noise pollution, and truck and railroad traffic. While the City's environmental conditions have precluded requirements for future housing development in Vernon, the City will accommodate residential development to the extent necessary to support local industry and public safety personnel. Major environmental constraints preclude other types of housing. Energy and Compared with the City's energy -intensive industries, housing Water consumes only a very small proportion of the City's total energy Conservation consumption. The City utilizes Title 24 energy standards for residential construction to minimize energy consumption. Necessary sound insulation on residential units also results in effective heat insulation, thus reducing energy usage. Power is provided by the City through its electric system. The Southern California Gas Company provides fuel for most heating needs, and offers programs for water heater insulation, attic insulation, and water flow limiting devices. City water is provided to all dwelling units either from ground water or by import from the Metropolitan Water District. Compared to the City's large industrial users, residential water use is minimal, and no special conservation steps have been deemed necessary. Housing Element 12 a r L 0 Vernon General Plan February 2001 2.2 Constraints on Housing Development Governmental The City's zoning ordinance imposes some constraints on Constraints housing. However, new residential development is permitted anywhere in the City. Because of the industrial nature of the City, health and safety codes may also constrain housing location or siting. New attached and detached residential units are permitted throughout the General Industry and Commercial -Industrial zones. Residential dwelling unit standards for single family detached units include 5,000 .,square foot minimum lot size, maximum two stories or 35 feet in height, and a one -car garage minimum per dwelling unit. Standards for multiple -family units include minimum 4,000 square foot lot size per dwelling, maximum three stories or 45 feet in height, and at least one garage space per dwelling unit plus additional parking at one space for each two units. Residential uses are required to be equipped with air conditioning and sound insulation to protect residents from exposure to adverse environmental conditions. New housing is permitted in the Heavy Industry zone as a conditional use, subject to more stringent standards to ensure land use compatibility. The zoning ordinance permits a' temporary residential unit (not to exceed 180 days) related to construction upon the same lot, and in addition allows an attached residential unit on the premises of a non-residential use, business, plant or facility to house an owner, caretaker, guard or night watchman. While Vernon seeks to retain its industrial orientation, it specifically permits residential uses in the City. The City's permit processing fees and procedures do not unreasonably constrain residential development. Fees are comparable to those within the region, and have been set at a level necessary to cover the costs to the City. Non- governmental Constraints to Housing In Vernon, there is virtually no land available which would be suitable for the development of housing. Although the current inventoryof unimproved or underutilized sites identified 17 sites, serious environmental conditions render these sites unsuitable for residential development. Selected sites are discussed in detail in Section 2.3. Environmental factors affecting potential residential development are related to hazardous materials storage and processing, background contamination, noxious odors, noise pollution, and truck and railroad traffic generated by the City's pervasive industrial land uses. Inadequate access to residential Housing Element 13 I Vernon General Plan February 2001 services is an additional constraint to residential development in the City. These factors which tend to preclude the use of land for residential purposes in Vernon must be considered in establishing where housing might be located in the City. Hazardous Materials With a history as an industrial City, Vernon's heavy and prolonged industrial use is reflected in the following conditions (refer to Figure H-2): • A high concentration of -both underground (45 facilities with 127 underground storage tanks) and above ground hazardous material storage tanks throughout the City. • Within the City, 555 business handle/store hazardous materials. Numerous underground pipelines throughout the City, many carrying potentially explosive materials. • Residual soil contamination resulting from prior manufacturing activities on the site and from previously abandoned chemical waste open disposal pits, aeration ponds, landfills or petroleum related activities. (A high lead content in the soil is common.) Twenty sites are on the State hazardous waste Superfund List, with one additional site on the Federal hazardous waste Superfund List. • Approximately 137 miles of railroad track historically treated with herbicides for weed control. Right -of ways show patterns of contamination from spilling, overfilling or transfer of chemicals. • Six CaliforniaEPA-permitted hazardous waste treatment, storage and disposal facilities. • Ten closed landfill sites. Overfilling storage tanks, leaking pipes and leaking tanks have resulted in residual soil contamination in Vernon. Sixteen sites have been declared Proposition 65 sites (determined by laboratory tests to have excessive chemical contamination). Remediation plans are required to decontaminate the soil. Housing Element 14 • S Vernon General Plan February 2001 Due to high background and other petroleum contamination and lack of feasible clean-up options, several sites were remediated with covenants being recorded to advise future purchasers of the presence of contamination, and due to public health concerns, these sites would be unsuitable for future sensitive land uses such as housing. Due to the high concentration of underground storage tanks in Vernon, (45 facilities with 127 underground storage tanks are currently in the City), there is significant potential for chemical spills or accidents. The City's Underground Tank Program has resulted in the removal of 1,123 tanks on 255 sites since May 1984. Additionally, where structures were threatened by tank removal, 68 underground tanks were abandoned in place. Another component of hazardous materials control in Vernon is the "right to know" program. All businesses in the City are required to submit inventories of all hazardous materials used or stored. The City has 555 businesses that handle or store hazardous materials. Figure H-2 shows the maximum daily volume (in pounds) of hazardous materials for each business. The total number of businesses is distributed evenly among the four volume ranges. As shown on Figure H-2, businesses with very high maximum daily volumes (156,001 to 100,000,000 pounds) are located throughout the City. The risk of upset from businesses handling such high volumes of chemicals, many of which are toxic, is a factor which must be considered in land use planning. The locations of businesses throughout the community„ with underground storage tanks and/or use or storage of chemical materials indicate that the entire City is subject to chemical spills or accidents, thereby illustrating its inappropriateness for future residential development. In summary, Vernon's prolonged history as an industrial City has resulted in significant background contamination. Industrial uses which store or use hazardous materials are pervasive throughout the City. These conditions make Vernon a highly unsuitable environment for sensitive land uses such as housing. Noxious Odors Vernon has numerous industries which generate noxious odors, primarily related to the slaughtering and rendering of animals. Overlay districts have been designated in the City's General Plan Housing Element 16 Vernon General Plan February 2001 in attempts to isolate the locations of offensive industrial uses responsible for excessive noise and odors. These overlay districts include a "Slaughtering Overlay" for uses which involve the slaughtering of animals, and a "Rendering Overlay" for the location of rendering facilities, fertilizer facilities, and junk yards. These uses generate significant adverse effects related to odor and noise, making residential land uses highly incompatible within their vicinity. Noise As could be expected in a highly industrial city, Vernon is exposed to high levels of noise emanating from stationary industrial activity, as well as from trucks, automobiles, and railroad operations. Numerous companies in the City operate equipment, such as large presses and pumps, which produce excessive vibrations and generate noise well beyond the level of acceptability for noise -sensitive land uses within the vicinity. Arterial roadways in Vernon have a very high proportion of truck traffic (approximately 30%), thereby intensifying noise levels surrounding the City's roadways. In addition, four main railroad lines and a number of switching operations pass through the City, generating significant levels of noise. Figure H-3 derived from the Noise Element presents noise contours developed for Vernon in 1986; existing conditions are virtually the same. The 60 dB CNEL contour and higher represents the Noise Referral Zone adopted by the City for which any proposed land use within the zone shall be evaluated on a project specific basis. The City's policy is that residential development in areas between 60 and 65 CNEL should be - undertaken only after detailed analysis of the noise reduction requirements are made and necessary noise insulation features in the project's design are determined. In areas where noise levels exceed 70 CNEL (those areas bordered on more than one side by 65 CNEL contours), residential development should be discouraged. As evidenced by the contour map, a large portion of the City falls within the Noise Referral Zone, and is thereby only marginally acceptable for sensitive land uses such as housing. The noise contours are based on roadway traffic, and do not account for stationary noise sources. The probability is that areas mapped as being outside the 60 dB CNEL may in fact experience excessive noise levels from intermittent or other sources. Housing Element 17 ll 11111111�1 _ iv 11111111111 MOM �� i� IIIIIIIIII �� —11311low liiiipim IIIIIIIII._ = m Illlill: .,NI INIL I -_ _ � a =eau 1 •� �' ® � .. �� W_ - Fun, 11 -"" � � � ��IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII� � : ' 1 v C — not / rim lows a .� nc - �ililla _ L r r ai i� ii 0 o V H Z f S b O a � e � � •fig 3 r Vernon General Plan February 2001 Truck and Railroad Traffic The City of Vernon is traversed by approximately 137 miles of railroad tracks, with approximately 114 at -grade and one grade -separated railroad crossings. As previously mentioned, truck traffic is extremely heavy, comprising nearly one-third of all traffic in the City. These conditions not only contribute to excessive noise levels, but also create safety hazards for pedestrians, particularly a problem for the elderly, handicapped individuals and families with children. Although the planned construction of the Alameda Corridor will consolidate rail traffic between the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach and downtown Los Angeles, no plans have been announced to vacate existing mainline railroads. Some spur tracks will be eliminated, but will be replaced by truck transportation. Figure H-4 indicates the principal transportation elements which contribute to noise and pollution in the City of Vernon: the Long Beach Freeway, arterial roadways, collector streets and mainline railroads. Residential Service Adequacy Residential development requires the provision of services to meet the needs of the resident population. Services provided at the municipal level include education, recreation, and local retail goods and services. While few such residential services are situated within Vernon, they are located within close enough proximity to adequately serve potential residential development in the City. However, access to these residential services is along roadways with high levels of truck traffic, railroad crossings, and loading activities. These conditions make pedestrian access to residential service facilities difficult and unsafe, particularly for children. The City lacks any area suitable for residential development which has safe access to necessary residential services. The closest commercial corridor is Slauson Boulevard to the south which has convenience retail as well as community retail nodes located at major intersections. These commercial areas are located in the neighboring jurisdictions of Huntington Park and Maywood. Housing Element 19 I �7 a Lr %Y U' ro m a c o cif r y � 1�m - i I t�tRiftttttttt I _ in u Noil eGO> 3S EPouield uw 011139A uoiun PHIS oi}[osd a LFwIwft-.- N �a CD •i � O W _ Z O i cts c s c � c m a o m � �V ' W U 1 Vernon General Plan February 2001 Summary of Constraints to Residential Development Extensive industrial development throughout Vernon has resulted in severe environmental conditions which render virtually any site in the City unsuitable for residential development. Environmental degradation related to hazardous materials and background contamination, noxious odors, noise pollution and truck and railroad traffic present significant land use conflicts for future residential development in the City. In addition, the lack of adequate, safe access to residential services acts to constrain housing opportunities in Vernon. Based on these significant constraints to residential development in Vernon, SCAG approved a future housing need in the City of zero for the 2000- 2005 period. The Gateway Cities COG projections through the year 2025 continue to document zero household growth in the City. Housing Element 21 f t j i ® ■ Vernon General Plan February 2001 2.3 Housing Opportunities In order to assess the current potential for residential development, the City worked with a local real estate broker to identify properties within the City listed as unimproved (currently vacant lots) and underdeveloped (currently vacant buildings). From this list, the City's recently -developed land use data base was used to select sites that offer relatively better potential for environmental safety and adequate residential services. The remaining sites were eliminated from further consideration on the basis of their location on principal truck or rail routes, or in overlay districts for slaughterhouse or rendering, or because of their small size (less than one acre). A total of 17 unimproved and underutilized sites were considered to have some limited potential for residential development. These sites are described in Tables H-5 and H-6, and specifically identified as letters A-Q in Figure H-5. The following discussion evaluates these sites in terms of economic feasibility, environmental safety, and residential service adequacy. Housing Element 22 �- H Vernon General Plan February 2001 Table H-5 Characteristics of Unimproved and Underutilized Sites in Vernon November 2000 Assessor Parcel On -Site Site Area Improvements Number Hazardous Site No. Location GP Designation Materials "' (Acres) Type A 6302-002-023 2550 East 28" Street General no 1.57 Parking Lot Industrial B 6302-009-026 1921 East 27 h Street General 3,991.25 2. 99 Vacant B1dg.,Truck Industrial Terminal C 6302-018-017 3876 Santa Fe Avenue Commercial/ no 2.97 Vacant Bldg.,Apparel Industrial D 6303-015-002 3051 East 46" Street General 223,652.6 . 2.23 Vacant Bldg.,Wholesale Industrial E 6303-021-005 4601 Boyle Avenue General no 2.57 Vacant Bldg. Industrial F 6303-025-022 4911 Alcoa Avenue General no 3.17 Vacant Lot Industrial G 6304-012-002 4833 Fruitland Avenue General no 1.58 Vacant Bldg.,Truck Industrial Terminal H 6304-022-022 4555 Everett Avenue General no 1.03 Vacant Bldg. Industrial I 6309-006-009 4400 Block of Pacific Commercial/ 1,506.18 1.59 Vacant Lot Blvd, Industrial J 6308-015-073 2300 Block of 49° Street General no 1.23 Vacant Lot Industrial K 6308-015-074 ' 2035 East 49" Street General no 1.21 Vacant Lot Industrial L'Z' 6308-016-012 2305 East 52' Street General no 0.52 Vacant Bldg. Industrial 6308-016-013 2315 East 52nd Street General no 0.94 Vacant Bldg. Industrial Housing Element 24 Vernon General Plan February 2001 on -Site Site Area Improvements Assessor Parcel Number Hazardous Map No. Location GP Designation Materials �„ (Acres) Type N 6308-016-900 1900 Block of 550' Street General no 2.77 Vacant Lot Industrial O 6309-026-013 2700 Fruitland Avenue General no 2.09 Vacant Lot Industrial 6310-002-031 5601 Downey Road General no 3.59 Vacant Bldg., Fabric P Industrial Mill 6310-027-026 5991 S. Alcoa Avenue General 2,310.37 2.11 Vacant Bldg., Fabric Q Industrial Mull (1) Hazardous materials on -site is measured in maximum daily volume (lbs) (2) Sites "L" and "M", both under an acre in size are included on the list because the two parcels are adjacent to each other on East 52' Street. Source: Cotton/Beland/Associates, Inc. Housing Element 25 Vernon General Plan February 2001 Table H-6 Locational Characteristics of Unimproved and Underutilized Sites in Vernon November 2000 Truck Traffic Noise Odor Railroad Hazards Waste Hazards Nearby/Onsite Sources of Tonic Material Site No. Surrounding Land Uses Truck Terminal, Edible Fats Production Low Low High Mod High Low Low Mod High High Nearby Underground Storage Tank. Acetylene, Sulfic Acid On -Site Contamination. Underground Storage Tank. Motor Oil, Rive -Rite Concentrate, Diesel #2 A B Concrete Plant, Apparel High High Mod Low High NearbSolvent, dhesive Cleaneund rs Storage Antifreeze/Coolant C Apparel, Truck Repair Low High Mod Mod High nation from Gaesen a of Laline r a Above-G ound Historic i toric Pr g Hs Gas Tanks. Motor Oil, Liqu-A-Klor, IsopTopanol D Pharmaceutical Preparations, P Distillery, Truck Terminal Low Low Mod Mod Mod Large Above -Ground Gas Tanks in Area - Likely Probability of On -Site Contamination. Motor Oil, Oven Cleaner, Wilflex Dis ersion Pigment E Home furnishings, Industrial Supplies Su PP Low Mod ��+ Mod High Contamination on -Site oter Solvent F Fabric Mill, Steel Wholesale Mod Mod Mod Mod High Propane G Trucking Storage, Electrical Appliances Mod Low Mod Mod High Gasoline H Photography Equipment, Metal Services Mod Low Low Low High Low Low Mod Mod [ghMod High Mod Mod High High High High on-Siteion. Acetone, AASulfric Acid, Molub- Alloy Oil Welding Acetylene, Propane, Formula C Welding Acetylene, Propane, Formula C Popane 1 Toy Supplies, Truck Repair 1 Apparel, Food Preparation, Furniture K Apparel, Food Preparation, Furniture L Fabric Mill, Wines, Warehouse Low Mod Mod Mod Hydraulic Oil, Sodium Persulfate M Fabric Mill, Wines, Warehouse Low Mod Mod Mod Mod Power Coat Paints, Knitting Oil N Apparel, Fabric Mill, Recycling Plant High High Mod High High Kleen Solvent, Diesel Fuel #2 O Apparel, Home furnishings, Train Junction High High Mod High Mod Caustic, CA 527/OLOA 864 P Hardware, Metalworks, Oils Q Prepared Food, Gas Station, Metalwork Low Mod Mod Low High on -Site Contamination. Nearby Underground Storage Tank. Propane, Dual Heat, Sodium H hlorite Mod. = Moderate Housing. Element 26 tf ! Vernon General Plan February 2001 Economic Based upon information regarding the Vernon commercial and Feasibility industrial market, recent (2000) land sales for large industrial sites have been priced at approximately $10 to $14 per square foot, depending on location, soil condition and necessary demolition costs. Effective land cost including remediation required to make old industrial sites developable for residential use could be significantly higher. Additional costs incurred to make any of the sites suitable for residential development would include testing for ground contamination, remediation for residential development, and providing minimum safety and nuisance improvements to meet residential development requirements. Although additional costs might be feasible if the sites were otherwise suitable for residentialdevelopment, the environmental problems from surrounding uses are so severe as to virtually preclude both private market and assisted housing development on the sites. Environmental Environmental conditions in Vernon are generally incompatible Safety with residential uses. As indicated in Table H-6, the17 potential residential development sites in Vernon all have some form of negative environmental condition. The surrounding land uses at the sites analyzed include l pharmaceutical preparations, fabric mills, metal services, food j preparation, truck terminals, and warehouses. Although these sites were selected as having relatively less transportation hazard than sites that were eliminated from further consideration, three of the 17 sites are exposed to high truck traffic due to their location on arterial roads. Three sites are exposed to moderate truck traffic. Noise hazard for these sites is directly related to truck and rail operations. Six of the 17 sites are exposed to relatively high noise levels and seven "sites to moderate noise levels. Three of the selected sites have relatively high levels of noxious odors from adjacent food preparation facilities. The remaining sites have low to moderate levels of noxious odors. Three sites have relatively high rail hazards: two due to proximity to main line train tracks and one near a train junction. Rail spurs are found throughout the City of Vernon and eleven sites were determined to have moderate rail hazard from proximity to less active or spur rail lines. Housing Element 27 I t Vernon General Plan February 2001 City, State and Federal records indicate that thirteen of the potential housing sites are exposed to significant levels of hazardous waste from underground tanks, soil contamination and chemicals used for operations in the adjacent area. Four of the sites were assessed to be exposed to moderate levels of waste hazards associated with business operations in the surrounding area. The presence of hazardous materials and hazardous waste is evident throughout the City. Six hazardous waste treatment facilities are located within Vernon. A total of 50 sites have regulated substances containing extremely hazardous materials. If a leak were to occur at any of these 50 sites, evacuation would be required for a 1/4 mile area around the facility. Based on the preceding analysis of surrounding land use, truck traffic, noise, odor, rail and waste hazards, Sites E and F have the fewest environmental constraints for potential residential development. Residential services (schools, parks, retail) are approximately 1.4 miles or less away from these sites. However, both sites are close to spur rail lines and are surrounded by industrial land uses including a fabric mill, home furnishings, industrial supplies, and a steel wholesale supplier. These factors make both sites unsuitable for new residential development. The associated truck traffic, noise, odor, and waste hazards make all of these sites less than desirable locations for residential uses. All of these sites have potential ground contamination problems and are within close proximity of hazardous materials, making these sites extremely hazardous to potential residents. The development of residential uses at sites within this industrial environment would create both hardship and hazards for residents substantially greater than those experienced in nearby residential neighborhoods in neighboring communities, and at levels of environmental risk unacceptable for new residential development. Residential Residential development in the City of Vernon would require that Service Adequacy the new residents be provided basic residential services. The services provided at the local level include education, recreation and retail goods and services. The estimated distances to these facilities from each site are presented in Table H-7. The closest commercial corridor is Slauson Boulevard to the south which has convenience retail as well as community retail nodes located at major intersections. These service commercial areas are located in the neighboring jurisdictions of Huntington Park and Maywood. Housing Element 28 i Vernon General Plan February 2001 Table H-7 Residential Service Characteristics of Unimproved and Underutilized Sites in Vernon November 2000 Site No. Assessor Parcel Number Location Nearest Elem. School Nearest I H. School Nearest High School Nearest Retail Nearest Park/Rec A 6302-002-023 2550 East 28'h Street 0.6 mi. 2.0 mi. 1.9 mi. 1.6 mi. 1.2 mi. B 6302-009-026 1921 East 27 ° Street 0.6 mi. 1.7 mi. 1.1 mi. 1.7 mi. 0.9 mi. C 6302-018-017 3876 Santa Fe Avenue 0.5 mi. 1.9 mi. 1.2 mi. 1.3 mi. 0.8 mi. D 6303-015-002 3051 East 46"' Street 0.9 mi. 1.5 mi. 0.9 mi. 1.1 mi. 1.2 mi. E 6303-021-005 4601 Boyle Avenue 1.2 mi. 1.4 mi. 0.8 ML 1.0 mi. 1.1 mi. F 6303-025-022 4911 Alcoa Avenue 0.7 mi: 1.2 mi. 0.8 mi. 1.2 mi. 0.7 mi. C 6304-012-002 4833 Fruitland Avenue 0.4 mi. 0.7 mi. 1_4 mi. 0.5 mi. 0.7 mi. H 6304-022-022 4555 Everett Avenue 0.7 mi. 1.0 mi. 1.3 mi. 1.2 mi. 0.6 mi. 1 6308-006-009 4400 Block of Pacific Blvd. 0.2 mi. 1.7 mi. 1.2 mi. 1.1 mi. 0.7 mi. I 6308-015-073 2300 Block of 49" Street 0.4 mi. 1.6 mi. 1.3 mi. 0.8 mi. 0.5 mi. K 6308-015-074 2035 East 49" Street 0.4 mi. 1.6 mi. 1.3 mi. 0.8 mi. 0.5 mi. L 6308-016-012 2305 East 52 d Street 0.6 mi. 1.4 mi. 1.1 mi. 0.6 mi. 0.8 mi. M 6308-016-013 2315 East 5211 Street 0.6 mi. 1.4 mi. 1.1 mi. 0.6 mi. 0.8 mi. N 6308-016-900 1900 Block of 55 h Street 0.4 mi. 1.3 mi. 0.9 mi. 0.6 mi. 0.6 mi. O 6309-026-013 2700 Fruitland Avenue 0.6 mi. 1.1 mi. 0.6 mi. 0.5 mi. 1.1 mi. P 6310-002-031 5601 Downey Road 0.3 mi. 0.6 mi. 0.7 mi. 1.1 mi. 0.2 mi. Q 6310-027-026 5991 S. Alcoa Avenue 0.3 mi. 0:6 mi. 0.3 mi. 0.7 mi. 0.7 mi. Housing Element 29 It 1 Summary of Housing Opportunities Vernon General Plan February 2001 From the standpoint of residential development, Sites G, P, and Q are situated close enough to the boundary of .adjacent residential districts to provide relatively adequate residential services. However, the proximity to rail lines and nearby hazardous waste contamination (Site Q also has on -site contamination) makes these sites unsuitable for residential development. In addition to the substantial distances from the potential sites to residential services, access to residential service facilities from the potential residential sites are along roadways with high truck traffic, railroad crossings, and loading activities. These conditions make pedestrian access to residential services difficult for adults and unsafe for children. To summarize, analysis of 17 unimproved and underutilized sites indicates that no site in Vernon is suitable for residential development`. The presence of hazardous materials at sites throughout the City as well as pervasive danger from truck and rail transportation routes --hallmarks of Vernon'sindustrial character --provide an undesirable environment for residential development. In spite of any subsidy which might be provided for assisted housing, Vernon remains unsuitable for new housing development. Future residential development is inappropriate in Vernon. As reflected by the City's RHNA of zero future housing units and the Gateway Cities COG projections of zero housing growth, opportunities for residential development in Vernon are significantly constrained due to its pervasive industrial character. Nonetheless, additional residential development will not be precluded in Vernon. The Housing Element must address the maintenance of the units that currently exist in Vernon and the addition of any ancillary units required to support public safety personnel and local industry. Major environmental constraints preclude other types of housing. Housing Element 30 �t � Vernon General Plan February 2001 3.0 GOALS, POLICIES AND PROGRAMS The major focus of housing policy in Vernon is to preserve the existing housing stock in the City and to insure that housing in the City is well maintained. The goals and policies of the Housing Element are concerned with emphasizing the need for safe and sound housing in the City. The primary goal of the Housing Element concerns the safety and maintenance of all dwelling units. The Housing Element also recognizes the occasional need for a plant to have a full time caretaker, watchman, or key employee residing on -site. The goals and policies encourage this use as long as the dwellings are necessary to the operation and meet all applicable building and zoning codes. The Housing Element is concerned about the health and safety of residents living on or adjacent to plant sites. The goals and policies discourage the occupation 'or construction of dwelling units on industrial sites where activities are involved in operations potentially hazardous to residents. In addition, all units are required to have adequate insulation and air conditioning to reduce potentially adverse air quality and noise related impacts from the adjacent industrial uses. 1 3.1 Goals and Policies GOAL 1 MAINTAIN A SUFFICIENT NUMBER OF DWELLING UNITS TO ACCOMMODATE PUBLIC SAFETY PERSONNEL AND KEY EMPLOYEES OF INDUSTRY. POLICY 1.1: Continue to provide housing for persons involved in or concerned with public safety or local industry in the City. POLICY 1.2: Provide for the retention of existing residential units in the City which are economically and physically sound. POLICY 1.3: Continue to permit residential development within the City's industrial and commercial zones provided that existing environmental constraints, e.g., noise, odor, hazardous waste, can be mitigated to an acceptable level. Housing Element 31 Vernon General Plan February 2001 GOAL 2 ENSURE THAT ALL HOUSING UNITS ARE MAINTAINED IN DECENT, SAFE AND SANITARY CONDITION. POLICY 2.1: Continue to enforce all relevant building and zoning codes to ensure that all residential units are adequately maintained. POLICY 2.2: Encourage the separation of residential units from industrial operations or storage areas which are potentially hazardous to the health and safety of their occupants. POLICY 2.3: Require all residential units to be equipped with air conditioning and sound insulation in new construction or as part of any remodeling work to protect residents from exposure to adverse environmental conditions. POLICY 2.4: Mitigate any residential displacement impacts occurring as a result of residential demolition through unit replacement or relocation of tenants. GOAL 3 PROMOTE THE CONTINUED AVAILABILITY OF A RANGE IN UNIT TYPES AND SIZES AVAILABLE REGARDLESS OF INCOME, RACE OR ETHNIC BACKGROUND. POLICY 3.1: Prohibit discrimination in the availability of housing, and prosecute anyone found guilty of practicing housing discrimination. Housing Element 32 Y 3.2 Programs Vernon General Plan February 2001 As discussed in this Element, residential development is unlikely in Vernon due to the City's pervasive industrial character. SCAG adopted a future housing need of zero in Vernon as part of the 2000 Regional Housing Needs Assessment, recognizing the incompatibility of locating housing in such a heavy industrial environment. The Gateway Cities GOG has continued to project zero housing growth in Vernon through the year 2025. As such, programs to increase the City's housing stock are not appropriate. As indicated in the goals and policies, the primary goal of the Housing Element is to ensure the maintenance of the City's existing housing stock. The following two programs will implement this goal. Maintenance of The City owns 26 of the total 31 housing units in Vernon; these City -Owned city -owned units are rented to public safety personnel to ensure Residences the availability of safety personnel in case of emergency. The City is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of these units. As indicated in the housing conditions survey (refer to Section 2.1 of the Housing Element), all of the City -owned units were determined to be in good repair. The City will continue to provide maintenance to these units, thus ensuring upkeep for the majority of Vernon's housing stock. Code Enforcement Preservation of Assisted Housing 4 Of the five non -City owned units located in Vernon, none was determined by the housing conditions survey to be in need of substantial rehabilitation. Due to the limited number of privately -owned units in the City, a code enforcement program would have limited application. However, it is nonetheless imperative that residential units be adequately maintained, particularly those integrated with industry, to minimize potential environmental hazards. The City will, as required, undertake code enforcement activities on Vernon's few privately -owned units to ensure the health and safety of City residents. State law (Chapter 1451, Statutes of 1989) requires the City to identify, analyze and propose programs within the Housing Element to address the potential conversion of all federal, State and locally assisted housing developments eligible to change to non -low-income use during the next ten-year period (1996-2006). Government Code Section 65583(8) defines assisted housing developments as the following: "multi -family rental housing that receives governmental assistance under federal programs listed in subdivision (a) of Section 65863.10, state and local multi -family revenue bond programs, local redevelopment programs, the federal Community Development Block Grant Program, or local in -lieu fees. Assisted housing developments shall also include multi -family rental units that were developed pursuant to a local Housing Element 33 �1 D Vernon General Plan February 2001 inclusionary housing program or used to qualify for a density bonus pursuant to Section 65915-65917." Vernon has no assisted housing in its jurisdiction, as confirmed by City and State HCD staff, and through review of "Inventory of Federally Subsidized Low -Income Rental Units at Risk of Conversion" (California Housing Partnership Corporation), and the "Use of Housing Revenue Bond Proceeds -1994" (California Debt Advisory Commission). As a result, there is no housing at risk of losing its subsidized status which must be considered in the Housing Element. 3.3 Redevelopment Agency Housing Requirements The Vernon Redevelopment Agency adopted a Redevelopment Plan for the Industrial Redevelopment Project Area in November 1990. The properties included in the approximate 1,988-acre Project Area were those which exhibited the worst blighting conditions and which were in need of public assistance to ameliorate the problems. The Project Area containes a mix of established industrial uses, including food processing, warehousing, manufacturing, truck terminals, and slaughtering and rendering operations. In 1998, the Industrial Redevelopment Project Area was amended to include an additional 137 acres of land, divided into 30 parcels. These parcels are predominantly used for industrial purposes, with significant portions also being used for parking and storage. Four housing units are located within the Project Area, two of which are owned by the City, with no additional housing proposed. The Redevelopment Agency has no plans to demolish or relocate the two privately owned housing units in the Project Area. Pursuant to the Community Redevelopment Reform Act of 1993 (AB 1290), the Vernon Redevelopment Agency adopted a five- year Redevelopment Implementation Plan for the 2000-2004 period. This Plan updated the Agency's goals, objectives, and programs from the previous Implementation Plan adopted in 1994. One of the components of the Plan is to detail the Agency's responsibilities under redevelopment law to increase and improve the supply of low and moderate income housing. The following section summarizes the Vernon Redevelopment Agency's responsibilities with regard to housing production, housing replacement, and expenditures for low and moderate income housing from its Implementation Plan. Housing Element 34 1 I Housing Production Requirements Housing Replacement Requirements F L Vernon General Plan February 2001 Legislative Requirements Health and Safety Code Section 33413(b)(1) requires that 15 percent of all housing developed or substantially rehabilitated within a project area and without assistance from a redevelopment agency, must be affordable to low and moderate income households, 40 percent of which must be affordable to very low income households. Section 33413(b)(2) requires that 30 percent of all housing developed or substantially rehabilitated with an agency's assistance, must be affordable to low and moderate income households, 50 percent of which must be affordable to very low income households. Existing Housing Production in Project Area City records indicate that the housing stock within the Vernon Project Area has undergone a decrease of one dwelling unit since 1990, leaving a total of only four units. No housing has been added in the Project Area by either the Redevelopment Agency or any other private or public entity. Projected Housing Production Requirements The City of Vernon has no existing or future housing production requirement as defined in Section 33413(b) of the Health and Safety Code. Because the Redevelopment Plan calls for neither the construction, destruction, or replacement of any housing within the Project Area, the Agency does not anticipate any housing production requirement during the five-year Implementation Plan period, or in the future. Legislative Requirements When residential housing units affordable to low and moderate income households are demolished, destroyed, or otherwise made unaffordable to households at these income levels, as part of a redevelopment project, the agency must replace those units within four years (H&S Code § 33413(a)). The replacement housing obligation is only triggered when the units destroyed or removed are subject to a written agreement with the redevelopment agency or have been financially assisted by the agency. Destroyed units which were vacant but would reasonably be expected to be occupied by low and moderate income households if occupied, must also be replaced. Replacement units may be located anywhere within the territorial jurisdiction of the agency. Housing Element 35 Vernon General Plan February 2001 Existing Replacement Housing Obligation Within the Vernon Project Area, one housing unit has. been destroyed or removed from the housing market since the Project Area was adopted in 1990. This housing unit was not destroyed or removed as a result of any Redevelopment Agency activity or agreement. In 1990 there were five housing units within the Project Area boundaries, and there are currently four units remaining. Anticipated Removal of Units During Five -Year Plan No units are anticipated to be removed as a part of any redevelopment activity of the" Vernon Redevelopment Agency during the 2000-2004 Implementation Plan period. Projected Housing Replacement Requirements The Agency should not have, nor should it incur during its five- year Implementation Plan, any replacement housing obligation as defined under Section 33413(a) of the Health and Safety Code. The Agency has adopted adetailed plan and method for the relocation of any resident displaced by redevelopment activity and the replacement of any affordable housing that might be destroyed. Section V of the Report to Council and Section 450 of the Redevelopment Plan set forth the procedures the Agency will follow, should any resident be displaced by redevelopment activities. Additionally, if the Agency executes any agreement which would cause the removal of any low or moderate income housing, the Agency must adopt a comprehensive replacement housing plan within 30 days of the agreement, and the plan must comply with the requirements of Section 33413 of the Health and Safety Code (see Section V, Proposed Industrial Redevelopment Project -- Report to Council). Redevelopment Legislative Requirements Housing Set -Aside Sections 33334.2 through 33334.6 of the Health and Safety Code Requirements require redevelopment agencies to set -aside 20 percent of the tax increment revenues, generated by a project area to a special Low and Moderate Income Housing Fund (Low/Mod Fund). The Low/Mod Fund must be used to "increase, improve and preserve the community's supply of low and moderate income housing" within the territorial jurisdiction of the agency (H&S Code § ,33334.3(c)). The Community Redevelopment Law, however, contains several exceptions to the 20 percent set -aside requirement. Section 33334.2 contains three specific exceptions, which if any one of Housing Element36 1 Vernon General Plan February 2001 them applies, exempts the agency from depositing all or part of the required monies in a Low/Mod Fund for a given year. The exceptions contained in 33334.2 were also incorporated into Section 33334.6. A redevelopment agency need not set -aside tax increment for Low and Moderate Income Housing if it can make the following finding: (1)(A) That no need exists in the community to improve, increase, or preserve the supply of low- and moderate -income housing, including housing for very low income households in a manner which would benefit the project area and that this finding is consistent with the housing element of the community's general plan ... including its share of regional housing needs of very low income households and persons and families of low or moderate income. (H&S Code § 33334.2). The 2000-2005 Vernon Housing Element continues to document that the City of Vernon has no existing housing need. SCAG has adopted a Zero Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) for Vernon for the 2000-2005 period. The Gateway Cities Council of Governments (COG) Subregion projections through the year 2025 continue to indicate zero housing growth in the City. As discussed above, there are only four housing units within the Project Area boundaries. Two of these units are owned by the City and occupied by City safety personnel; the remaining two are privately owned. Because of Vernon's heavy concentration of industrial uses and the concomitant environmental and social concerns, Vernon is not suited for housing development of any kind. The existing housing within the City is there only by necessity. The Vernon Redevelopment Agency has adopted resolutions making such findings in 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, and 1999. The Agency expects to be able to adopt similar resolutions annually with the appropriate findings exempting the Agency under Section 33334.2(1)(A) of the Health and Safety Code, supported by the City's Housing Element, for the foreseeable future. Redevelopment Housing Set -Aside Fund Projections Because the Agency has determined there to be no need, and expects to continue to be able to adopt such findings to relieve the Agency from depositing money in an Low/Mod Fund under Section 33334.2(1)(A) of the Health and Safety Code, there are no existing or projected housing set -aside funds for the Industrial Redevelopment Project Area. Housing Element 37 LE APPENDIX Correspondence From U.S. Bureau of the Census r r r F J � n J • t 4� `•i t: �� .. 4 Burr.... may, • e "p J S?Args OF ~ CFFICIC 0% ':Hi UDR: CT(?H June 23, 1993 From the Acting Director Bureau of the Census n FTMENT OF COMMERCE This is an official statement of the revised 1990 census pogslation and housing unit counts for Vernon city, California, ins :uding corrections made through 'rilre 8, 1.992 - p According to the official returns of the TWENTY-FIRST DECENNIAL. CENSUS OF THE UNITED STATES, on file in the Bureau of the Census, the counts as of April 1, 1990 for Vernon city, California are: Population ...... Housing Units Harry A. Scarr 82 30 This statement is being sent to the highest elected official of this governmental unit, the Secretary of State, and other state officials. Census counts used for Congressional apportionment and legislative redistricting and 1990 census data products will remain unchanged. The Census Bureau will show the corrections in a supplemental user note. If you require additional information, please call the Census Bureau on �301) 763-4894. Please refer to document number 22200626-06-000-000-3006-0000-02. 11 SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS it CITY COUNCIL LEONIS C. MALBURG Mayor THOMAS A. YBARRA Mayor Pro-Tem WM. "BILL" DAVIS Councilman H. "LARRY" GONZALES Councilman W. MICHAEL MCCORMICK Councilman BRUCE V. MALKENHORST City Administrator / City Clerk FAX (323) 581-7924 EDUARDO OLIVO City Attorney I FAX: (562) 927-8722 KEV WILSON Director of munity Services &Water or X: (323) 588-2761 C1 U KENNETH J. DeDARIO L 0 l Director of Municipal Utilities FAX: (323) 583-1983 DA TELFORD hief . (323) 581-1385 CITY HALL BRUCE OLSON 4305 SANTA FE AVENUE, VERNON, CALIFORNIA 90058 �' � W. Police Chief TELEPHONE (323) 583-8811FAX: (323) 583-5236 January 16, 2001 Via Facsimile and U. S. Mail Bruce V. Malkenhorst City Administrator 4305 Santa Fe Avenue Vernon, California 90058 Re: City of Vernon Appe Assessment Dear Bruce: of Regional Housing Needs You may recall that the City has been involved in an appeal process regarding the Regional Housing Need Assessment ("RHNA") that was prepared by the Southern California Association of Governments ("SCAG"). The draft RHNA initially allocated to the City three additional housing units. Because of certain environmental issues, the construction of such additional housing in the City would be problematic. Therefore, we proceeded to appeal the draft RHNA. We proceeded through the appeal process established by SCAG. As previously advised, SCAG approved our appeal and the appeals of severalotherjurisdictions. However, SCAG's determination still needed to be reviewed pursuant to the - Government Code,''by the Department of Housing and Community Development before their decision would become final. The City has received a copy of a letter from the Department of Housing to SCAG which indicates that SCAG's determinations were being Bruce V. Malkenhorst January 16, 2001 Page 2 rejected, primarily because the total number of additional housing units had been reduced substantially by SCAG. Nevertheless, the Department of Housing and Community Development has determined that the appeals for certain jurisdictions, including the City of Vernon, were approved. Therefore, as it now stands, we have been successful in the appellate process on this matter and the determination has been made that the City of Vernon's housing allocation under the Final Regional Housing Need Plan is zero. Please call me if you have any questions. Very truly yours, Eduardo Olivo City Attorney CC: Kevin Wilson OFFICE OF THE CITY ADMINISTRATOR/CITY CLERK INTER -OFFICE MEMORANDUM DATE: March 6, 2001 TO Samuel Kevin Wilson, Director of Community Services and Water FROM: Gloria 0ros4____C_hief Deputy City Clerk RE: Housing Element 2000-2005 Transmitted herewith is a copy of Resolution No. 7711 that was approved by City Council on February 21, 2001 approving and adopting the final 2000-2005 Housing Element. GJO:ng