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478, Export of soil & grading, Staff Reports4 • C1iy (Petting INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957 AGENDA ITEM 3 MEETING DATE 4/13/92 NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 (213) 377-1521 FAX: (213) 377-7288 TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL ATTENTION: CRAIG R. NEALIS, CITY MANAGER FROM: LOLA M. UNGAR, PRINCIPAL PLANNER SUBJECT: ZONING CASE NO. 478 RESOLUTION NO. 92-16: A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS GRANTING A VARIANCE TO THE BALANCE CUT AND FILL GRADING REQUIREMENT AND SITE PLAN REVIEW APPROVAL FOR CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW PARKING LOT, RETAINING WALLS AND LANDSCAPING FOR THE CITY HALL COMPLEX IN ZONING CASE OWNERS: CITY OF ROLLING HILLS ADDRESS: 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD (LOT 21-A-RH AND A PORTION OF LOT 21-B-RH1 BACKGROUND 1. Attached is the subject Resolution approved by the Planning Commission on March 28, 1992. 2. The City is requesting a Variance to permit the exportation of 1,100 cubic yards of soil from the City Hall complex which is in the Commercial -Limited Zone. 3. A Site Plan Review is also required because of the need for a grading permit to construct a new parking lot at the City Hall complex which will include property to the east that was recently deeded to the City by Mr. Samuel Keesal. The City has also entered into a 10-year lease agreement with the City of Rolling Hills Estates concerning the road easement to the north where the existing bridle trail will be relocated and additional parking will be provided. 4. The existing 3,973 square foot City Administration building and 4,494 square foot garage building were built in 1967. On July 23, 1991, building permits were issued to remodel 2,166 square feet of the garage building to provide separate offices for the Community Association. The project is still under construction. 5. Grading for the project site will require 1,300 cubic yards of raw cut soil, 700 cubic yards of street section (3" to 6"), less 200 cubic yards of asphalt removal for a total adjusted cut of 1800 cubic yards and 700 cubic yards of' raw fill soil. As a result, 1,100 cubic yards of soil will need to be exported from the project site. • • ZONING CASE NO. 478 PAGE 2 6. The proposed parking lot will increase from approximately 39 spaces to approximately 44 marked parking spaces. Currently, the City Hall complex provides 22 marked parking spaces. 7. Retaining walls will be required in two areas: north of the Community Association building, 83 feet of retaining walls, no higher than 5' are proposed; and south of the City Hall/Community Association area, 286 feet of retaining walls, no higher than 5' are proposed. Also included on the proposed plan is a 10' by 8' trash enclosure. 8. Plans have been designed to preserve most existing mature • trees and shrubbery. 9. The structural lot coverage proposed is 8,941 square feet or 7.4% (50% permitted) and the total lot coverage proposed is 63,909 square feet or 60.6% which includes the tennis courts. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the City Council receive and file Resolution No. 92-16. ' ' • • RESOLUTION 92-16 A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS GRANTING A VARIANCE TO THE BALANCE CUT AND FILL GRADING REQUIREMENT AND SITE PLAN REVIEW APPROVAL FOR CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW PARKING LOT, RETAINING WALLS AND LANDSCAPING FOR THE CITY HALL COMPLEX IN ZONING CASE 478. THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS DOES HEREBY FIND, RESOLVE AND ORDER AS FOLLOWS: Section 1. Applications were duly filed by the City of Rolling Hills with respect to real property located in the C-L and RAS-1 Zone at 2 Portuguese Bend Road (Lot 21-A-RH and a portion of Lot 21-B-RH; 2.76 acres) requesting,a variance to allow the exportation of soil and for Site Plan Review approval of a proposed plan to construct new parking areas, retaining walls, a trash enclosure and new landscaping in and around the City Hall complex (hereinafter referred to as the "Civic Center hardscape plan"). Section 2. The Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearing to consider the applications for the variance and Site Plan Review on Saturday, March 28, 1992. Evidence both written and oral was presented by the applicant at this hearing. Section 3. The Planning Commission has reviewed and considered the Negative Declaration prepared for this project and finds, based upon the initial study and any comments received, that there is no substantial evidence that the project will have a significant effect on the environment. Based upon these findings, the Planning Commission hereby adopts the Negative Declaration for the project. Section 4. Sections 17.32.010 through 17.32.030 of the Rolling Hills Municipal Code permit approval of a variance from the standards and requirements of the Zoning Ordinance and have been applied to permit the approval of variances from local standards contained in the City's adopted version of the Los Angeles County Uniform Building Code. Section 15.04.130 of the Rolling Hills Municipal Code amends Section 7015 (d) of the County of Los Angeles Building Code to prohibit the importation or exportation of soil from or to any lot in the City unless a variance is first obtained from the Planning Commission. The applicant is requesting to export approximately 1,100 cubic yards of soil for the purpose of creating a larger pad on which to construct a parking lot and driveway access to the Civic Center buildings. Section 5. With respect to the request for a variance, the Planning Commission finds as follows: 920327 kge 1680850 (1) • • A. There are exceptional and extraordinary circumstances and conditions applicable to the property and to the intended use that do not apply generally to other property in the same vicinity and zone for the following reasons: (i) A substantial portion of the site currently lies within the Commercial Limited (CL) zone. This zone is used by the City and the Rolling Hills Community Association for public and private institutional uses, including but not limited to a City Hall and Association offices. These uses are not found in other parts of the City and create unique impacts and physical requirements not found with respect to other uses in the City. (ii) The City Hall and Association offices generate a need for a large amount of vehicular parking spaces. Parking spaces are needed to serve the residents and members of the public who come to conduct business with the City and the Association generally, as well as to attend meetings of the City Council, Planning Commission, Traffic Commission, Wildlife Preservation Committee and the Rolling Hills Community Association Board of Directors. (iii) The City Hall and Association Offices currently exist on the site. However, the existing number of parking spaces and the existing driveway access in and around the City Hall and Association offices is inadequate to serve this existing demand for parking and creates traffic congestion with the resultant increase in the risk to motorists and pedestrians. (iv) The exportation of soil is necessary so that the building pad and parking areas around the City Hall and Association offices can be expanded so as to create the additional parking spaces and additional driveway area to serve these facilities. Under the proposed Civic Center hardscape plan, the available number of parking spaces in an around City Hall will increase from approximately 39 to approximately 44. B. The variance is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of a substantial property right possessed by other property in the same vicinity and zone, but which is denied to the property in question for the following reasons: (i) The subject site is devoted to public and institutional uses and facilities which generate certain unique requirements and impacts. (ii) The full and beneficial use of these institutional facilities require a larger parking area than currently exists. (iii) Exportation of soil from the site will allow for an increase in the number of parking spaces which may be constructed on the site. 920327 kge 1680850 (1) — 2 - • • (iv) Alternative locations for these additional parking spaces are infeasible due to the fact that there is no additional vacant land adjacent to the City Hall complex upon which to construct the additional parking. C. The granting of the variance would not be materially detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to the property or improvements in such vicinity and zone in which the property is located for the following reasons: (i) The subject property is located on the City's northern boundary and is adjacent to one residential property on the south, a roadway and easement on the west, a roadway on the north and a roadway and canyon to the east. Due to this unique location, the proposed expansion of the building pad to create additional parking will not create significant impacts to properties within the vicinity of the proposed parking areas. (ii) The proposed project is not anticipated to have a material impact on noise levels due to the fact that the subject site is located adjacent to existing roadway uses. The project is also not anticipated to have an impact on the City's goals and policies in the Housing or Open Space Elements of the General Plan. (iv) The project is anticipated to have a positive impact on parking safety as required on page 6 of the Circulation Element of the General Plan by improving site distances between motorists, reducing circulation conflicts between vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists and equestrians, and by removing the necessity for visitors to park on adjacent easements. Section 6. Based upon the foregoing findings, the Planning Commission hereby approves a variance to Section 15.04.130 of the Rolling Hills Municipal Code in Zoning Case 478 to permit the exportation of 1,100 cubic yards of soil from the subject property in connection with the construction of the Civic Center hardscape plan. Section 7. Section 17.34.010 requires a development plan to be submitted for Site Plan Review approval before any building or structure may be constructed or any expansion, addition, alteration or repair to existing buildings or structures, which involve changes to grading or an increase to the size of the building or structure by more than twenty-five percent (25%) in any thirty-six month period, may be permitted. Section 8. With respect to the Site Plan Review application, the Planning Commission makes the following findings of fact: 920327 kge 1680850 (1) — 3 — • • A. The proposed Civic Center hardscape plan is consistent with the intended uses in the Commercial Limited (CL) zone as set forth in the Land Use Element of the General Plan. B. The proposed Civic Center hardscape plan preserves and integrates into the site design, to the maximum extent feasible, existing natural topographical features of the lot including surrounding native vegetation, mature trees, drainage courses, and land forms. .Host of the existing mature trees and shrubbery will be preserved by the plan and the proposed parking areas will be surrounded by landscaping that is compatible with the rural character of the community. C. The proposed Civic Center hardscape plan attempts to utilize as much of the soil displaced by graded cuts as is possible for fill areas so as not to disturb the natural contours of the site any more than is required to create the necessary parking and hardscape areas. The natural drainage course to the east of the site will not be disturbed. D. The proposed Civic Center hardscape plan will supplement the existing vegetation with landscaping that is compatible with and enhances the rural character of the community and will preserve most of the existing mature trees and shrubbery. E. The proposed Civic Center hardscape plan substantially preserves the existing buffer areas between Palos Verdes Drive North and the surrounding properties and attempts to make the parking and driveway areas as compact as possible in order to make the project blend with the rural character of the community and to retain some open space on the site. F. The proposed Civic Center hardscape plan is harmonious in mass and scale with the site, the natural. terrain and surrounding residences. As indicated in paragraph E, the proposed hardscape plan substantially preserves the existing buffer areas between Palos Verdes Drive North and the surrounding properties and attempts to make the parking and driveway areas as compact as possible . The exportation of soil will allow the hardscape areas to be partially sunken into the site rather than placed at a higher elevation which would be more prominent when viewed by surrounding residences. In addition, much of the proposed hardscape areas will be placed between the Association offices and Palos Verdes Drive North so as to reduce the impacts of these areas on surrounding properties. G. The proposed Civic Center hardscape plan will make substantial improvements to the convenience and safety of circulationfor pedestrians and vehicles because this plan contains substantial improvements to the parking areas and driveway plan in and around the City Hall and Association offices. 920327 kge 1680850 (1) - 4 - • • H. The project conforms with the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act and a Negative Declaration has been adopted for the project. Section 9. Based upon the foregoing findings, the Planning Commission hereby approves the Site Plan Review application for Zoning Case No. 478 for the proposed Civic Center hardscape plan as indicated on the development plan incorporated herein as Exhibit A, subject to the conditions contained in Section 10 of this Resolution. Section 10. The variance to the balanced cut and fill requirement approved in Section 6 and the Site Plan Review application for the Civic Center hardscape plan approved in Section 9 of this resolution are subject to the following conditions: A. The variance and Site Plan Review approval shall expire within one year from the effective date of approval as defined in Section 17.34.080.A. B. All requirements of the Buildings and Construction Ordinance and the Zoning Ordinance must be complied with unless otherwise set forth in the Permit, or shown otherwise on an approved plan. C. The lot shall be developed and maintained in substantial conformance with the site plan on file dated March 19, 1992 and marked Exhibit A, except as otherwise provided in these conditions. D. The working drawings submitted to the County Department of Building and Safety must conform to the development plan approved with this application. E. Grading shall be limited so that the amount of soil exported shall not exceed 1,100 cubic yards of soil. Cut and fill slopes shall not exceed a steepness of a 2 to 1 slope ratio. The grading plan shall utilize land form or contour grading techniques in its design so as to create a building pad and slopes that blend with the horizontal and vertical contours of the natural terrain. F. To minimize the visual impacts of the improvements, the structures, driveway, graded slopes and retaining walls shall be screened and shielded from view with native drought -resistant vegetation that is compatible with the surrounding vegetation of the community. G. A landscape plan must be prepared and approved by the City staff to comply with the purpose and intent of the Site Plan Review Ordinance, shall incorporate existing mature trees and native vegetation, and shall utilize to the 920327 kge 1680850 (1) - 5 • • maximum extent feasible, plants that are native to the area and/or consistent with the rural character of the community. H. The project must be reviewed and approved by the Rolling Hills Community Association Architectural Review Committee prior to the issuance of any building or grading permit. PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED this 2= • day of March, 1992. ATTEST: DIANE SAWYER, DEPUTfCITY CLERK ALAN ROBERTS, CHAIRMAN 920327 kge 1680850 (1) 6 GINO The foregoing Resolution No. 92-16 entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS GRANTING A VARIANCE TO THE BALANCE CUT AND FILL GRADING REQUIREMENT AND SITE PLAN REVIEW APPROVAL FOR CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW PARKING LOT, RETAINING WALLS AND LANDSCAPING FOR THE CITY HALL COMPLEX IN ZONING CASE 478. was approved and adopted at a regular adjourned meeting of the Planning Commission on March 28, 1992, by the following roll call vote: AYES: Ca missioners Frost, Hankins, Lay, Raine and Chairman Roberts NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None DE CITY 920327 kge 1680850 (1) — 7 — ■ ,;/ 7-t Pare ua+ _ , _�,n_— �� •-1Z• „r_ i 071/ .'1r• ; -s 4111* --fl Ato. • • City ol Rolling HEARING DATE: TO: FROM: APPLICATION NO. SITE LOCATION: ZONING & SIZE: APPLICANT: PUBLISHED: REQUEST INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957 MARCH 28, 1992 PLANNING COMMISSION LOLA UNGAR. PRINCIPAL PLANNER NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF, 90274 (213) 377-1521 FAX: (213) 377-7288 ZONING CASE NO. 478 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD (LOT 21-A-RH AND A PORTION OF LOT 21-B-RH) C-L & RAS-1 ZONE, 2.76 ACRES CITY OF ROLLING HILLS MARCH 19, 1992 Request for a Variance to permit the exportation of a substantial amount of soil from a lot in the City and request for Site Plan Review to permit grading for a new parking lot, retaining walls and landscaping at the City Hall complex. BACKGROUND In reviewing the request under Title 15 (Building and Construction) and Title 17 (Zoning), staff would identify the following issues for evaluation: 1. The City is requesting a Variance to permit the exportation of 1,100 cubic yards of soil from the City Hall complex which is in the Commercial -Limited Zone. 2. A Site Plan Review is also required because of the need for a grading permit to construct a new parking lot at the City Hall complex which will include property to the east that was recently deeded to the City by Mr. Samuel Keesal. The City has also entered into a 10-year lease agreement with the City of Rolling Hills Estates concerning the road easement to the north where the existing bridle trail will be relocated and additional parking will be provided. 3. The existing 8,698 square foot administration building and garage were built in 1967. On July 23, 1991, building permits were issued to remodel 2,166 square feet of the garage building to provide separate offices for the Community Association. The project is still under construction. 4. Grading for the project site will require 1,300 cubic yards of raw cut soil, 700 cubic yards of street section (3" to 6"), less 200 cubic yards of asphalt removal for a total adjusted cut of 1800 cubic yards and 700 cubic yards of raw fill soil. As a result, 1,100 cubic yards of soil will need to be exported from the project site. 5. The proposed parking lot will provide 46 marked parking spaces; 39 at the City Hall/Community Association area and 7 near the tennis courts. Currently, the City Hall complex provides 22 marked parking spaces. ZONING CASE NO. 478 PAGE 2 6. Retaining walls will be required in two areas: north of the Community Association building, 83 feet of retaining walls, no higher than 5' are proposed; and south of the City Hall/Community Association area, 286 feet of retaining walls, no higher than 5' are proposed. Also included on the proposed plan is a 10' by 8' trash enclosure. 7. Plans have been designed to preserve most existing mature trees and shrubbery. 8. The structural lot coverage proposed is 8,941 square feet or 7.4% (50% permitted) and the total lot coverage proposed is 63,909 square feet or 60.6% which includes the tennis courts. 9. After reviewing the Initial Study for the project, Staff has determined that this project will not have a significant effect on the environment. Accordingly, a Negative Declaration has been prepared. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the Planning Commission review the Negative Declaration, proposed plans, and take public testimony. • • City 0/ Roiling -Afro NEGATIVE DECLARATION PROJECT: ZONING CASE NO. 478 INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957 NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 (213) 377-1521 FAX: (213) 377-7288 Application has been filed with the City of Rolling Hills for approval of the project known as Zoning. Case No. 478 to be located at 2 Portueuese Bend Road. Rollinr: Hills. CA and to be implemented by The City of Rolling. Hills Planning. Commission. The request is briefly described as: A Variance to permit the exportation of a substantial amount of soil from a lot in the City and a request for Site Plan Review to permit r: radine for a new parkine lot. retaining. walls., and landscaping. at the City Hall complex. Pursuant to the authority and criteria contained in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the CEQA Guidelines of the City of Rolling. Hills. the Lead Agency has analyzed the project and determined that the project will not have a significant impact on the environment. Based on this finding, the Lead Agency prepared this NEGATIVE DECLARATION. A copy of the Initial Study, documenting reasons to support the finding, is attached. Mitigation measures, if any, included in the project to avoid potentially significant effects are: None. A period of at least 21 days from the date of publication of the notice of this NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be provided to enable public review of the project specifications, the Initial Study and this document prior to the final adoption of the NEGATIVE DECLARATION by the Lead Agency. A copy of the project specifications is on file in the offices of The City of Rolline Hills. 2 Portuauese Bend Road. Rolling. Hills. CA 90274. Date: March 16. 1992 By: Lola Ungar, Principal Planner APPENDIX B Assessor's Block and Lot Number ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION AND CHECKLIST FORM (Initial Study) Date Submitted: 3/La 4z. No. 74/C9 C,' r 4/7i GENERAL INFORMATION 1. Name •and address of developer or project sponsor: City U` ,e4G-Gi/1/6- htiGGs P P .,/ /era P , / C,' yaZ7V 2. Address of project: 7 /2/ 4 'ese Beu.( Ad CA qdz 7' 7c2 3 G.4-/* 3. Name, address, and telephone number of person to be contacted concerning this project: /t't/; e.ZLcq /teah.4 (a " 2pP�� ud 4,--C49 '/ S Ci gdz7¢ (i0)377- /.rz/ i 4. List and describe any other related permits and other public approvals required for this project, including those required by city, regional, state and federal agencies: 1/ j , , 4 (r • e. 5. Existing zoning district: C.'L jd&rj- / 6. Proposed use of site (Project for which this form is filed): Atelr ipati�ic�q /ij;t Ltd 4u,6 ca j -ter/ 77- \/ PROJECT DESCRIPTION 7. Site size: 2.76 C-c " ,( 6. Square footage: /ZO, 22,_ ,0 9. Number of floors of construction: • 10. Amount of off-street parking provided: 44y4cG.v 11. (Attach plans.) 12. Proposed scheduling: ✓ 13. Associated projects: ' nn 14. Anticipated incremental development: 15. If residential, indicate the number of units, schedule of unit sizes, range of sale prices or rents, and type of household size expected: '"/4- 16.'.If commercial, indicate the type, whether neighborhood, city or regionally oriented, square footage of/ sales Jarea, � and loading facilities: facilities : L;u :mod 6'3w� u/�yr.2,J 17. If industrial, indicate/type, estimated employment per shift, and loading facilities: N/f� 18. If institutional, indicate the major function, estimated employment per shift, estimated occupancy, loading facilities, and community benefits to be derived from the project: ��A -2- MLW9-itih • • 19. If the project involves a variance, conditional use or rezoning application, state this and indicate clearly why the application is required: d ,fie/ /fD' /at dz/ 021Frif 0 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING 20. On a separate page, describe the project site as it exists before the project, including information on topography, soil stability, plants and animals, and any cultural, historical or scenic aspects. Describe any existing structures on the site, and the use of the structures. Attach photographs of the site. 21. On a separate page, describe the surrounding properties, including information on plants and animals and any cultural, historical or scenic aspects. Indicate the type of land use (residential, commercial, etc.), intensity of land use, and scale of development (height, frontage, set -back, rear yard, etc.). Attach photographs of the vicinity. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS (Explanations of all "yes" and "maybe" answers are required on attached sheets.) YES MAYBE NO 22. Earth. Will the proposal result in: a. Unstable earth conditions or in changes in geologic substructures? X b. Disruptions, displacements, com- paction or overcovering of the soil? c. Change in topography or ground surface relief features? d. The destruction, covering or modification of any unique geologic or physical features? e. Any increase in wind or water erosion of soils, either on or off the site? -3- f. Changes in deposition or erosion of beach sands, or changes in siltation, deposition or erosion which may modify the channel of a river or stream or the bed of the ocean or any bay, inlet or lake? g. Exposure of people or property to geologic hazards such as earth- quakes, landslides, mudslides, ground failure, or similar hazards? 23. Air. Will the proposal result in: a. Substantial air emissions or deterioration of ambient air quality? b. The creation of objectionable odors? c. Alteration of air movement, moisture or temperature, or any change in climate, either locally or regionally? 24. Water. Will the proposal result in: a. Changes in currents, or the course or direction of water movements, in either marine or fresh waters? b. Changes in absorption rates, drainage patterns, or the rate and amount of surface water runoff? YES MAYBE NO 2S c. Alterations to the course of flow of flood waters? d. Change in the amount of surface water in any water body? _ �C e. Discharge into surface waters, or in any alteration of surface water quality, including but not limited to temperature, dissolved oxygen or turbidity? f. Alteration of the direction or rate of flow of ground waters? g. Change in the quantity of ground waters, either through direct addi- tions or withdrawals, or through interception of an aquifer by cuts or excavations? -4- h. Substantial reduction in the amount of water otherwise available for public water supplies? i. Exposure of people or property to water -related hazards such as flooding or tidal waves? j. Significant changes in the temperature, flow, or chemical content of surface thermal springs? 25. Plant Life. Will the proposal result in: a. Change in the diversity of species, or number of any species of plants (including trees, shrubs, grass, crops, microflora and of plants? b. A reduction of the numbers of any unique,rare or endangered species of plants? c. Introduction of new species of plants into an area, or in a barrier to the normal replenish- ment of existing species? d. Reduction in acreage of any agricultural crop? 26. Animal Life. Will the proposal result in: a. Change in the diversity of species, or numbers of any species of animals (birds, land animals including reptiles, fish and shellfish, benthic organisms, insects or microfauna)? b. Reduction of the numbers of any unique, rare or endangered species of animals? YES MAYBE NO c. Introduction of new species of animals into an area, or result in a barrier to the migration or movement of animals? _ 2S d. Deterioration to existing fish or wildlife habitat? 27. Noise. Will the proposal result in: a. Increases in existing noise levels? 2( -5- ..� .. ..�, [,• •� .:.5•. .i �. S: r5 f, • .. !'!• ... .T.•. .)V..•[ /• • • b. Exposure of people to severe noise levels? 28. Light and Glare. Will the proposal produce new light or glare? 29. Land Use. Will the proposal result in a substantial alter- ation of the present or planned land use of an area? 30. Natural Resources. Will the proposal result in: a. Increase in the rate of use of any natural resources? YES MAYPE NO b. Substantial depletion of any nonrenewable natural resource? 2� 31. Risk of Upset. Will the proposal involve: a. A risk of an explosion or the release of hazardous substances (including, but not limited to, oil, pesticides, chemicals or radiation) in the event of an accident or up- set conditions? b. Possible interference with an emergency response plan or an emer- gency evacuation plan? _ ?l 32. Population. Will the proposal alter the location, distribution, density,'or growth rate of the human population of an area? X 33. Housing. Will the proposal af- fect existing housing, or create a demand for additional housing? 34. Transportation/Circulation. Will the proposal result in: a. Generation of substantial addi- tional vehicular movement? b. Effects on existing parking facilities, or demand for new parking? c. Substantial impact upon existing transportation systems? -6- 3 • d. Alterations to present patterns of circulation or move- ment of people and/or goods? e. Alterations to waterborne, rail or air traffic? f. Increase in traffic hazards to motor vehicles, bicyclists or pedestrians? 35. Public Services. Will the proposal have an effect upon, or result in a need for new or altered governmental services in any of the following areas: YES MAYBE NO a. Fire protection? b. Police protection? c. Schools? Z{ d. Parks or other recreational facilities? e. Maintenance of public facilities, including roads? 2� f. Other governmental services? 36. Energy. Will the proposal result in: a. Use -of substantial amounts of fuel or energy? b. Substantial increase in demand upon existing sources of energy, or require the development of new sources of energy? 37. Utilities. Will the proposal result in a need for new systems, or substantial alterations to the following utilities: a. Power or natural gas? b. Communications systems? c. Water? d. Sewer or septic tanks? e. Storm water drainage? f. Solid waste and disposal? -7- • MLW9-23A* • • 38. Human Health. Will the proposal result in: a. Creation of any health hazard or potential health hazard (excluding mental health)? b. Exposure of people to poten- tial health hazards? 39. Aesthetics. Will the proposal result in the obstruction of any scenic vista or view open to the public, or will the proposal re- sult in the creation of an aesthet- ically offensive site open to public view? 40. Recreation. Will the proposal result in an impact upon the quality or quantity of existing recreational opportunities? 41. Cultural Resources. a. Will the proposal result in the alteration of or the destruction of a prehistoric or historic archeological site? b. Will the proposal result in adverse physical or aesthet- ic effects to a prehistoric or historic building, structure, or object? c. Does the proposal have the potential to cause a physical change which would affect unique ethnic cultural •values? d. Will the proposal restrict existing religious or sacred uses within the potential impact area? 42. Mandatory Findings of Significance. a. Does the project have the potential to degrade the 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 commun- ity, reduce the number or restrict -8- YES MAYBE NO 2S X 1 YES MAYBE NO the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate impor- tant examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? b. Does the project have the potential to achieve short-term, to the disadvantage of long-term environ- mental goals? (a short term impact on the environment is one which occurs in a relatively brief, defin- itive period of time while long-term impacts will endure well into the future.) c. Does the project have impacts which are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? (A project may impact on two or more separate re- sources where the impact on each resource is relatively small, but where the ef- fect of the total of those impacts on the environment is significant.) d. Does the project have environ- mental effects which will cause sub- stantial adverse effect on human be- ings, either directly or indirectly? _ CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that the statements furnished above and in the attached exhibits present the data and infor- mation required for this initial evaluation to the best of my ability, and that the facts, statements, and information presented are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief. Date 3/64v ��y((Signatur For (24 (A plicanty _ • • Ci1s 0/ Rolling Ji/'fa 1,r INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957 NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 (213) 377.1521 FAX: (213) 377-7288 ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION AND CHECKLIST FORM (INITIAL STUDY) CITY OF ROLLING HILLS DATE: MARCH 16, 1992 APPLICATION NO. ZONING CASE NO. 461 SITE LOCATION: 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD (LOT 21-A-RH AND A PORTION OF LOT 21-B-RH) ZONING & SIZE: C-L & RAS-1 ZONE, 2.76 ACRES APPLICANT: CITY OF ROLLING HILLS ZONING CASE NO. 478: Request for a Variance to permit the exportation of a substantial amount of soil from a lot in the City and request for Site Plan Review to permit grading for a new parking lot, retaining walls and landscaping at the City Hall complex. The following analysis is a description of the findings contained in the Environmental Information and Checklist Form which preceded this page. A detailed discussion of all potential environmental impacts checked "Yes" or "Maybe" is provided, along with appropriate mitigation measures. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS The City of Rolling Hills is a residential community with single family dwellings on estate -size lots. The project site has an existing one-story City Hall office building, a Community Association office/garage that is currently being remodelled, tennis courts and a guard gate. The project site has an undulating topography. Item 22. Earth. a-d. Although approval of the subject project will not result in unstable earth conditions or in changes in geologic substructures, it should be noted that portions of the City exhibit unstable earth conditions, including active landslides and soil creep. Because the City is located in seismically active southern California, all development is exposed to potential groundshaking in the event of an earthquake. The Palos Verdes fault, considered potentially active, is located approximately one mile northeast of the City. During construction of the parking lot and retaining walls, there may be disruptions, displacements, compaction, or overcrowding of the soil as larger areas are contoured and leveled. Displacement and recompaction of the soil will be required to conform with local ordinances and engineering practices and should not cause a significant environmental impact. e-g. Plans have been designed so as to preserve most existing mature trees and shrubbery. Related erosion impacts will be less than significant. PAGE 2 Item 23. Air During construction, objectional odors may be created with the use of heavy earth moving equipment and the process of asphalting the parking lot. Item 27. Noise a-b. During construction, noise levels may increase and office personnel may be exposed to severe noise levels for short periods of time with the use of heavy earth moving equipment, constructing retaining walls, and asphalting the parking lot. • I It • ,..-•••• pittsi IOW •••••"'"%"""' . - - -......,_ -...., .....,................N.„....... --,,...•,,..,--....„....::-.....,,....:...„ N., ..N. • - , \ \ „ A 0. 4. NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 (213) 377-1521 FAX: (213) 377-7288 Agenda Item No: 6.A Mtg. Date: 12-23-91 TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL FROM: CRAIG R. NEALIS, CITY MANAGER SUBJECT: CONSIDERATION OF GRANT DEED FOR THE DONATION OF PROPERTY TO THE CITY DATE: DECEMBER 23, 1991 Attached to this Staff Report for consideration is a Grant Deed and Certificate of Acceptance for a certain parcel of land in Lot 21 in the city of Rolling Hills, County of Los Angeles, State of California, as recorded in Book 201, pages 29 through 35 inclusive, of maps, in the office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County. The land under consideration, as indicated on the attached map (Exhibit A), represents a portion of the property located immediately east of the City of Rolling Hills/ City Hall/Maintenance Facility parcel. This item is presented to facilitate the expansion of the City Hall and Maintenance Facility and incorporation of the hardscape design required to accommodate those two structures. The proper motion of the City Council would be to approve the Certificate of Acceptance and authorize the City Manager/City Clerk to complete the documents describing the City Council action this evening. CN:ds 111 WHIN RECORDED, MAIL TO : CITY OF ROLLING HILLS No. 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills CA 90274 Attn: City Clerk A.P.N. DOCUMENTARY TRANSFER TAX $ 0 THIS CONVEYANCE IS EXEMPT FROM DOCUMENTARY TRANSFER TAX PURSUANT TO REVENUE AND TAXATION CODE SECTION 11922. GRANT DEED FOR VALUABLE CONSIDERATION, receipt of which is acknowledged hereby SAMUEL A. KEESAL, JR. a married man who holds title as his sole and separate property hereby GRANTS TO CITY OF ROLLING HILLS, a municipal corporation all that certain real property described as: See Exhibit A attached hereto and made a part hereof as though set forth in full. Subject to: 1. Covenants, conditions, restrictions, reservations and easements of record. 2. Real estate taxes and assessments a lien not yet payable. Dated: Samuel A. Keesal, Jr. • ' STATE OF CALIFORNIA ) ss COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES) On December , 1991, before me the undersigned, a Notary Public in and for said State, personally appeared Samuel A. Keesal, Jr., personally known to me (or proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be the person whose name is subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged that he executed the same. Signature of Notary 2 PAL 05 a�1 N.50'34'00~� /41.00 ' 40 'at GROSS 2.550 AC. 2.1. NET 2.250 Ac. 21 NET - (Ate+c (. GSC AC. 21 NET- (A +B) 2.00o Ac. VERPe5 DR/ vE A/OR' TN W. 01'33 G5.95 . .L34. Ly,,o : fri, 12/6k a 57.29y M f4, y¢b3.f Li,N;; n1,vvQ1 , ,cs:. r.o. 50931 0425 Ac 0.570v, 14 N . .tf z0. 47' 1.•� . 4 ‘0 \4 4.1,t1.40 .,p • 7' .yj-n.,/ r 4IP arip ni% _(4 1 5• io-i4--41)1 REV. LO- 25 - gl z r r. 74 ' e5.50' 0.32o qc PRIED DIVISION OF FOR, OF LOT 2(, ROLL HI uS M.T. ea /2,-55 52.33 PREPARED r : $COT: UT CAMP. 304 TFJON PUCE PMDS YFRV's ES1ATt3 CA 101N 31St.S6 T:- -'` - d ZIgIHXa 12-16-91 REVISED DESCRIPTION OF KEESAL'S PARCEL 'A' That portion of that certain parcel of land in Lot 21 of Rolling Hills, in the City of Rolling Hills, County of Los Angeles, State of California, as per map recorded in book 201, pages 29 through 35 inclusive, of Maps, in the office of the Recorder of said County, which certain parcel of land is described in Parcel 1 of deed to Samuel A. Keesal, Jr., and wife, recorded 8/1/78, as instrument No. 78-838610 recorded August 5, 1987, as instrument no. 87-1246653, of Official Records, in the office of the Recorder of said County, and which portion thereof is described as follows: Beginning at the northwesterly terminus of the northeasterly line of said Parcel 1, which line, described in said deed as South 49°33'40" East, 211.74 feet is coincident with the northeasterly line of said Lot 21, and with the southwesterly line of Palos Verdes Drive North, 200 feet wide, as shown on said map of Rolling Hills; thence South 40°26'20"West, along the boundary of said Parcel 1, 140.00 feet; thence, departing from said boundary, South 28°35'29" East, 10.71 feet; thence North 61°41'41" East, 154.33 feet to a point in the before mentioned northeasterly line of Parcel 1, distant South 49°33'40" East, 65.95 feet, thereon, from the point of beginning; thence North 49°33'40" West, 65.95 feet, along said northeasterly line, to said point of beginning. Containing therein 5,443 square feet (0.125 AC.) Ciiy • ol /?Ot/t,Ia J . a INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957 NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 (213) 377-1521 FAX 1213) 377.728B CERTIFICATE OF ACCEPTANCE This is to certify that the interest in real property conveyed by the Deed or Grant dated from SAMUEL A. KEESAL JR. to THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS, a municipal corporation, is hereby accepted by order of the City Council on , 1991, and the Grantee consents to recordation thereof by its duly authorized official. Dated this 23rd day of December, 1991 By: MAYOR • • City ol Rolling NEGATIVE DECLARATION PROJECT: ZONING CASE NO. 478 INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957 NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 (213) 377.1521 FAX: (213) 377-7288 Application has been filed with the City of Rolling Hills for approval of the project known as Zonine Case No. 478 to be located at 2 Portue-uese Bend Road. Rolline Hills. CA and to be implemented by. The Citv of Rolline Hills Plannine , Commission. The request is brieflydescribed as: A Variance to permit the exportation of a substantial amount of soil from a lot in the City and a request for Site Plan Review to permit eradine for a new Darkine lot. retainine walls. and landscaDiner at the Citv Hall complex. Pursuant to the authority and criteria contained in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the CEQA Guidelines of the City of Rolline Hills. the Lead Agency has analyzed the project and determined that the project will not have a significant impact on the environment. Based on this finding, the Lead Agency prepared this NEGATIVE DECLARATION. A copy of the Initial Study, documenting reasons to support the finding, is attached. Mitigation measures, if any, included in the project to avoid potentially significant effects are: None. A period of at least 21 days from the date of publication of the notice of this NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be provided to enable public review of the project specifications, the Initial Study and this document prior to the final adoption of the NEGATIVE DECLARATION by the Lead Agency. A copy of the project specifications is on file in the offices of The Citv of Rolline Hills. 2 Portue'uese Bend Road. Rolling Hills. CA 90274. Date: March 16. 1992 By: Lola Ungar, -/Principal Planner • • APPENDIX B -concerning this project: ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION AND CHECKLIST FORM %(Initial Study) Date Submitted: 34 /4z No. ..jDNS CAs6 r:%B GENERAL INFORMATION 1. Name •and address of developer or project sponsor: C/Ty OF ,2eUG/A/G Prl&-f r-*..-a, , el Ai e, C, % z 7 s6 n 2. Address of project: 7 f re4vese lie, I CA 9dz 7 ' 706?�# Zr-kf% — va:e 2r3—9o,P- Assessor's Block and Lot Number 3. Name, address, and telephone number of person to be contacted U //y,, /� q /7416 C.A goZ74 (/0)37i. iJi t 4. List and describe anyother related permits and other public approvals required for this project, including those required by city, regional, state and federal agencies: 1/41,ittLaiz P-aK. , �� , fir, , 461 firs, - Ate, 44,dtq rq .id` C1z 5. Existing zoning district: 6. Proposed use of site (Project for which this form is filed): Wi- fetA /rt. ii d kuZi c /yr PROJECT DESCRIPTION 7. Site size: 2.76 LLG' 8. Square footage: /Z0. Z2s I� 9. Number of floors of construction: A//A 10. Amount of off-street parking provided:111 J -cl..v 11. (Attach plans.) G 12. Proposed scheduling: ✓ 13. Associated projects: ��e TO 4 ,(r, rirr. ,tzte 14. Anticipated incremental development: 15. If residential, indicate the number of units, schedule of unit sizes, range of sale prices or rents, and type of household size expected: 16%;.If commercial, indicate the type, whether neighborhood, city or regionally oriented, square footage of sales facilities: &At/ �, '�,fD,. area, and loading e 17. If industrial, indicate type, estimated employment per shift, and loading facilities: 4 18. If institutional, indicate the major function, estimated employment per shift, estimated occupancy, loading facilities, and community benefits to be derived from the project: 444 -2- • • 19. If the project involves a variance, conditional use or rezoning application, state this and indicate clearly why the application is required: d+t4,, i /U_,i,,r,w44/ /44. 4274/ dy D ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING 20. On a separate page, describe the project site as it exists before the project, including information on topography, soil stability, plants and animals, and any cultural, historical or scenic aspects. Describe any existing structures on the site, and the use of the structures. Attach photographs of the site. 21. On a separate page, describe the surrounding properties, including information on plants and animals and any cultural, historical or scenic aspects. Indicate the type of land use (residential, commercial, etc.), intensity of land use, and scale of development (height, frontage, set -back, rear yard, etc.). Attach photographs of the vicinity. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS (Explanations of all "yes" and •maybe" answers are required on attached sheets.) YES MAYBE NO 22. Earth. Will the proposal result in: a. Unstable earth conditions or in changes in geologic substructures? _ 2‘ b. Disruptions, displacements, com- paction or overcovering of the soil? c. Change in topography or ground surface relief features? d. The destruction, covering or modification of any unique geologic or physical features? e. Any increase in wind or water eiosion of soils, either on or off the site? -3- YES MAYBE NO f. Changes in deposition or erosion of beach sands, or changes in siltation, deposition or erosion which may modify the channel of a river or stream or the bed of the ocean or any bay, inlet or lake? g. Exposure of people or property to geologic hazards such as earth- quakes, landslides, mudslides, ground failure, or similar hazards? 23. Air. Will the proposal result in: a. Substantial air emissions or deterioration of ambient air quality? b. The creation of objectionable odors? 2‘. c. Alteration of air movement, moisture or temperature, or any change in climate, either locally or regionally? z 2S 24. Water. Will the proposal result in: a. Changes in currents, or the course or direction of water movements, in either marine or fresh waters? 2- b. Changes in absorption rates, drainage patterns, or the rate and amount of surface water runoff? _ c. Alterations to the course of flow of flood waters? d. Change in the amount of surface water in any water body? e. Discharge into surface waters, or in any alteration of surface water quality, including but not limited to temperature, dissolved oxygen or turbidity? f. Alteration of the direction or rate of flow of ground waters? g. Change in the quantity of ground waters, either through direct addi- tions or withdrawals, or through interception of an aquifer by cuts or excavations? -4- 1 • h. Substantial reduction in the amount of water otherwise available for public water supplies? i. Exposure of people or property to water -related hazards such as flooding or tidal waves? j. Significant changes in the temperature, flow, or chemical content of surface thermal springs? 25. Plant Life. Will the proposal result in: a. Change in the diversity of species, or number of any species of plants (including trees, shrubs, grass, crops, microflora and of plants? b. A reduction of the numbers of any unique,. rare or endangered species of plants? c. Introduction of new species of plants into an area, or in a barrier to the normal replenish- ment of existing species? d. Reduction in acreage of any agricultural crop? 26. Animal Life. Will the proposal result in: a. Change in the diversity of species, or numbers of any species of animals (birds, land animals including reptiles, fish and shellfish, benthic organisms, insects or microfauna)? b. Reduction of the numbers of any unique, rare or endangered species of animals? c. Introduction of new species of animals into an area, or result in a barrier to the migration or movement of animals? d. Deterioration to existing fish or wildlife habitat? 27. Noise. Will the proposal result in: a. Increases in existing noise levels? -5- TES MAYBE NO Nr YES MAYPE NO b. Exposure of people to severe noise levels? 28. Light and Glare. Will the proposal produce new light or glare? 29. Land Ose. Will the proposal result in a substantial alter- ation of the present or planned land use of an area? 30. Natural Resources. Will the proposal result in: 2( a. Increase in the rate of use of any natural resources? b. Substantial depletion of any nonrenewable natural resource? 3S 31. Risk of Upset. Will the proposal involve: a. A risk of an explosion or the release of hazardous substances (including, but not limited to, oil, pesticides, chemicals or radiation) in the event of an accident or up- set conditions? %C b. Possible interference with an emergency response plan or an emer- gency evacuation plan? _ ?f 32. Population. Will the proposal alter the location, distribution, density,'or growth rate of the human population of an area? X 33. Housing. Will the proposal af- fect existing housing, or create a demand for additional housing? 34. Transportation/Circulation. Will the proposal result in: a. Generation of substantial addi- tional vehicular movement? b. Effects on existing parking facilities, or demand for new parking? 2� c. Substantial impact upon existing transportation systems? 2s/ -6- 3 1 • • d. %Iterations to present patterns of circulation or move- ment of people and/or goods? e. Alterations to waterborne, rail or air traffic? f. Increase in traffic hazards to motor vehicles, bicyclists or pedestrians? 35. Public Services. Will the proposal have an effect upon, or result in a need for new or altered governmental services in any of the following areas: a. Fire protection? b. Police protection? c. Schools? d. Parks or other recreational facilities? e. Maintenance of public facilities, including roads? f. Other governmental services? 36. Energy. Will the proposal result in: a. Use•of substantial amounts of fuel or energy? b. Substantial increase in demand upon existing sources of energy, or require the development of new sources of energy? 37.. Utilities: Will the proposal result in a need for new systems, or substantial alterations to the following utilities: a. Power or natural gas? b. Communications systems? c. Water? d. Sewer or septic tanks? e. Storm water drainage? f. Solid waste and disposal? -7- YES MAYBE NO zC 1 • • 38. Human Health. Will the proposal result in: a. Creation of any health hazard or potential health hazard (excluding mental health)? b. Exposure of people to poten- tial health hazards? 39. Aesthetics. Will the proposal result in the obstruction of any scenic vista or view open to the public, or will the proposal re- sult in the creation of an aesthet- ically offensive site open to public view? 40. Recreation. Will the proposal result in an impact upon the quality or quantity of existing recreational opportunities? X YES MAYBE NO 41. Cultural Resources. a. Will the proposal result in the alteration of or the destruction of a prehistoric or historic archeological site? b. Will the proposal result in adverse physical or aesthet- ic effects to a prehistoric or historic building, structure, or object? c. Does the proposal have the potential to cause a physical change which would affect unique ethnic cultural -values? d. Will the proposal restrict existing religious or sacred uses within the potential impact area? 42. Mandatory Findings of Significance. a. Does the project have the potential to degrade the 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 commun- ity, reduce the number or restrict -8- 2S z r • YES MAYBE NO the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate impor- tant examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? b. Does the project have the potential to achieve short-term, to the disadvantage of long-term environ- mental goals? (a short term impact on the environment is one which occurs in a relatively brief, defin- itive period of time while long-term impacts will endure well into the future.) c. Does the project have impacts which are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? (A project may impact on two or more separate re- sources where the impact on each resource is relatively small, but where the ef- fect of the total of those impacts on the environment is significant.) d. Does the project have environ- mental effects which will cause sub- stantial adverse effect on human be- ings, either directly or indirectly? CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that the statements furnished above and in the attached exhibits present the data and infor- mation required for this initial evaluation to the best of my ability, and that the facts, statements, and information presented are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief. Date 3/i6 4Y (Signatur For ` 4 /��5? '-" 7 )44'Cxo -9- ( plicant�/ • • • C1iy 0/Rollins Afro INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957 NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 (213) 377-1521 FAX (213) 377-7288 ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION AND CHECKLIST FORM (INITIAL STUDY) CITY OF ROLLING HILLS DATE: MARCH 16, 1992 APPLICATION NO. ZONING CASE NO. 461 SITE LOCATION: 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD (LOT 21-A-RH AND A PORTION OF LOT 21-B-RH) ZONING & SIZE: C-L & RAS-1 ZONE, 2.76 ACRES APPLICANT: CITY OF ROLLING HILLS ZONING CASE NO. 478: Request for a Variance to permit the exportation of a substantial amount of soil from a lot in the City and request for Site Plan Review to permit grading for a new parking lot, retaining walls and landscaping at the City Hall complex. The following analysis is a description of the findings contained in the Environmental Information and Checklist Form which preceded this page. A detailed discussion of all potential environmental impacts checked "Yes" or "Maybe" is provided, along with appropriate mitigation measures. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS The City of Rolling Hills is a residential community with single family dwellings on estate -size lots. The project site has an existing one-story City Hall office building, a Community Association office/garage that is currently being remodelled, tennis courts and a guard gate. The project site has an undulating topography. Item 22. Earth. a-d. Although approval of the subject project will not result in unstable earth conditions or in changes in geologic substructures, it should be noted that portions of the City exhibit unstable earth conditions, including active landslides and soil creep. Because the City is located in seismically active southern California, all development is exposed to potential groundshaking in the event of an earthquake. The Palos Verdes fault, considered potentially active, is located approximately one mile northeast of the City. During construction of the parking lot and retaining walls, there may be disruptions, displacements, compaction, or overcrowding of the soil as larger areas are contoured and leveled. Displacement and recompaction of the soil will be required to conform with local ordinances and engineering practices and should not cause a significant environmental impact. e-g. Plans have been designed so as to preserve most existing mature trees and shrubbery. Related erosion impacts will be less than significant. PAGE 2 Item 23. Air During construction, objectional odors may be created with the use of heavy earth moving equipment and the process of asphalting the parking lot. Item 27. Noise a-b. During construction, noise levels may increase and office personnel may be exposed to severe noise levels for short periods of time with the use of heavy earth moving equipment, constructing retaining walls, and asphalting the parking lot.