Hermosa beach lcp issue papers

City of Hermosa BeachBeach Access and Parking Study

600 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1050Los Angeles, CA 90017

213.261.3050

January 2015

Submitted by

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction to the Beach Access and Parking Study .......................... 2

Coastal Zone Visitors ................................................................................. 4 Methodology and Findings ................................................................................. 4

Coastal Zone Mode Share ......................................................................... 7 Mode Share ............................................................................................................... 7

Parking in the Coastal Zone ..................................................................... 9 Parking Conditions ................................................................................................. 9

Sources ...................................................................................................... 23

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1 – Study Area ..................................................................................................... 3

Figure 2 – Origin and Number of Coastal Zone Visitors on a Weekday Afternoon ............................................................................................................................ 5

Figure 3 – Origin and Number of Coastal Zone Visitors on a Weekday Evening ................................................................................................................................ 6

Figure 4 – Origin and Number of Coastal Zone Visitors on a Weekend Afternoon ............................................................................................................................ 6

Figure 5 – Coastal Zone Public Parking Supply ................................................ 10

Figure 6 – Public Parking Restrictions .................................................................. 11

Figure 7 – Coastal Zone Public Parking Occupancy Density on a Weekday Afternoon ..................................................................................................... 13

Figure 8 – Coastal Zone Public Parking Occupancy Density on a Weekday Evening ......................................................................................................... 14

Figure 9 – Coastal Zone Public Parking Occupancy Density on a Weekend Afternoon .................................................................................................... 15

Figure 10 – Coastal Zone Public Parking Occupancy by Parking Permit Holders on a Weekday Afternoon ......................................................................... 17

Figure 11 – Coastal Zone Public Parking Occupancy by Parking Permit Holders on a Weekday Evening .............................................................................. 18

Figure 12 – Coastal Zone Public Parking Occupancy by Parking Permit Holders on a Weekend Afternoon ......................................................................... 19

Figure 13 – Car2Go Vehicles Parked in the Coastal Zone ............................ 22

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1 – Hermosa Beach Population and Coastal Zone Visitors ................ 4

Table 2 – Coastal Zone Trip Length from Home Destination ........................ 5

Table 3 – Mode Share .................................................................................................... 7

Table 4 – Bicycle Activity on the Strand .................................................................. 8

Table 5 – Coastal Zone Public Parking Supply ..................................................... 9

Table 6 – Coastal Zone Parking Occupancy ....................................................... 12

Table 7 – Coastal Zone Parking Occupancy by Parking Permit Holders 16

Table 8 – Occupancy in Public Parking Lots A – C .......................................... 20

Table 9 – Car2Go Vehicles Parked in the Coastal Zone ................................. 21

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INTRODUCTION TO THE BEACH ACCESS AND PARKING STUDY

In the summer of 2014, Fehr & Peers conducted a detailed parking inventory and occupancy survey in the City of Hermosa Beach Coastal Zone (Coastal Zone) to document existing access and parking conditions during the peak summer beach season. The Coastal Zone extends from the north to the south city limits, and east from the beach to approximately Valley Drive (see Figure 1).

The methods, locations, and time periods for the survey data collection were directed by City staff and reflect input from the consultant team working on the updates to the General Plan and the Local Coastal Plan as well as the Hermosa Police Department. The City has a long and successful history of managing public parking resources, and this inventory and survey is intended to support ongoing management decisions.

Data collected include information related to three aspects of coastal visitation and access:

1. Coastal Zone visitors – both in terms of their number and the origin of their trip 2. Coastal Zone mode share – summarizing data from an in-person beach area survey, and 3. Parking in the Coastal Zone – including parking supply, regulations, and occupancy levels

This document is structured as a summary of the data and does not include recommendations or suggested changes to parking standards, additional parking supply or management policies. Key observations revealed in analysis of the survey data are discussed in greater detail in the sections to follow.

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Introduction │Hermosa Beach Beach Access and Parking Study

Figure 1 – Study Area

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COASTAL ZONE VISITORS

METHODOLOGY AND FINDINGS

Data Collection Methodology

Coastal Zone visitor origin data was collected using cell phone and other GPS device data, which provides a robust data set covering a broad area. Data is collected from all types of mobile phones, not just smartphones. The data set is scrubbed of all personally identifiable information, and uses an algorithm to determine a mobile phone user’s home location based on the phone’s usual stationary nighttime coordinates.

For the Coastal Zone analysis, data was collected on all mobile signals active within the Coastal Zone during similar time periods to those in which the parking occupancy survey was conducted, including on weekday afternoons, weekday evenings, and weekend afternoons. To avoid counting vehicles driving through, but not stopping in, the Coastal Zone, mobile signals were only considered as a visitor if they stopped for a minimum continuous five to seven minute period within the Coastal Zone (i.e., for a longer period of time than a driver stopped at a red light would wait for a green signal). Results present the number and origin location of visitors to the Coastal Zone during the selected times of day, averaged from a year’s worth of data, excluding holiday periods.

Number of Coastal Zone Visitors

Cell phone data revealed that the total number of residents and visitors inside the Coastal Zone on a weekday afternoon number almost 50,000, or more than 2.5 times the total city population (approximately 20,000). On a weekday evening, the number of people within the Coastal Zone grows to just over 60,000 people, and on a weekend afternoon, the number of people in the Coastal Zone swells incredibly to almost 110,000 – five and a half times the total city population. Table 1 presents the number of visitors to the Coastal Zone in each surveyed time period.

Table 1 – Hermosa Beach Population and Coastal Zone Visitors

Area Population City of Hermosa Beach 19,535 Coastal Zone - Weekday Afternoon 48,600 Coastal Zone - Weekday Evening 60,500 Coastal Zone - Weekend Afternoon 108,000

Coastal Zone Visitor Origin

At all times, a majority of visitors to the Coastal Zone are “local”, originating within a radius of 10 miles from neighboring communities such as Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, El Segundo, and Torrance. Of the three surveyed time periods, the percentage of local visitors is highest on a weekday evening, when 80 percent of people in the Coastal Zone come from 10 miles away or less. The percentage of local visitors is lowest on weekend afternoons, when only 66 percent of the total number of people in the Coastal Zone

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Coastal Zone Visitors │ Hermosa Beach Beach Access and Parking Study

come from 10 miles away or less. However, because the total number of visitors to the Coastal Zone is so much higher on a weekend afternoon as compared to a weekday evening, the number of local visitors represented in the 66 percent (71,000) is higher than even the total number of people in the Coastal Zone from any distance on a weekday. In all surveyed time periods, between five and 10 percent of people in the Coastal Zone (or between 3,000 and 9,000 people) come from more than 100 miles away – and likely arrived to the area from one of the regional airports including LAX or Long Beach. Table 2 presents the percent of visitors to the Coastal Zone from varying differences during each surveyed time period. Figure 2, Figure 3, and Figure 4 illustrate the origin of visitors to the Coastal Zone during a weekday afternoon, weekday evening, and weekend afternoon, respectively.

Table 2 – Coastal Zone Trip Length from Home Destination

Weekday Afternoon Weekday Evening Weekend Afternoon Total Visitors 48,600 60,500 108,000 Home Destination Count Percent Count Percent Count Percent < 3 miles 19,000 38% 30,000 50% 41,000 36% 3 - 10 miles 16,000 33% 18,000 30% 30,000 30% 10 - 50 miles 10,000 21% 9,000 15% 25,000 24% 50 - 100 miles 600 1% 500 1% 3,000 2% 100 + miles 3,000 7% 3,000 5% 9,000 8%

Figure 2 – Origin and Number of Coastal Zone Visitors on a Weekday Afternoon

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Figure 3 – Origin and Number of Coastal Zone Visitors on a Weekday Evening

Figure 4 – Origin and Number of Coastal Zone Visitors on a Weekend Afternoon

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Coastal Zone Mode Share│ Hermosa Beach Beach Access and Parking Study

COASTAL ZONE MODE SHARE

MODE SHARE

The most reliable source of data on mode share comes from 74 responses collected in a Beach Area Survey conducted in August 2014 by members of the Hermosa Beach General Plan Update team, and from video of bicycle activity on the Strand recorded over four days in August 2014. According to the Beach Area Survey, 40 percent of beach area visitors arrived by walking, 56 percent drove, and the remaining four percent biked, skateboarded, or were dropped off in a taxi or another vehicle. No beach area visitors reported using public transit. Table 3 illustrates beach area visitor mode share, as collected in the Beach Area Survey. As a comparison, Hermosa Beach citywide commute mode share, excluding workers who work from home, is also presented.

Table 3 – Mode Share

The number of beach area visitors who arrived by bicycle may be underreported as few bicyclists stopped to take the survey. Video taken on the Strand just north of Pier Avenue suggests that the number of area visitors bicycling to or on the beach is extremely high: 300 bicyclists were observed during one hour on a weekday afternoon, over 400 bicyclists in one hour on a weekday evening, and almost 1,000 bicyclists in one hour on a weekend afternoon. Table 4 presents bicycle activity by bicyclist classification on the Strand during each surveyed time period.

2%

Beach Area Visitor Mode Share City of Hermosa Beach Citywide Commute Mode Share (Excluding Workers Who Work From Home)

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Table 4 – Bicycle Activity on the Strand

Weekday Afternoon Weekday Evening Weekend Afternoon

Overall 293 413 966 Bicycle Enthusiast 8 3 40 Adult Male 173 223 572 Adult Female 99 156 295 Child 10 23 46 Adult w/ child in child seat/trailer 3 8 13

* Bicycle enthusiast may be male or female, and was identified as wearing spandex bicycle clothing

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9 Parking in the Coastal Zone │ Hermosa Beach Beach Access and Parking Study

PARKING IN THE COASTAL ZONE

PARKING CONDITIONS

Methodology

A parking inventory was conducted first. On every street segment within the Coastal Zone, the following variables were observed and recorded: the number and type of parking spaces, all posted restrictions, and the cost to park. Following the inventory, an occupancy survey was conducted on Saturday, August 2 and Tuesday, August 5. Per the City’s direction, occupancy counts were collected on Saturday and Tuesday afternoons between 2:00 and 3:00 PM to collect data during the peak beach visitation period, and on Tuesday evening between 7:00 and 8:00 PM during the peak weekday evening restaurant dinner hour. Observations included whether a parking space was occupied, and if it was occupied by a vehicle displaying a Residential Parking Permit sticker or tag.

Coastal Zone Public Parking Supply

There are approximately 4,400 public parking spaces in the Coastal Zone. Of the 4,400 spaces, more than 400 can be found in one of three public parking lots located west of Hermosa Avenue near the beach, while approximately 1,500 of the on-street spaces are metered. For purposes of analysis, and with input from City of Hermosa Beach staff, the Coastal Zone was divided into three subzones with the following geographic limits:

Zone 1 North City Limit – 16th Street Primarily Residential land use

Zone 2 16th Street – 8th Street Primarily Commercial land use

Zone 3 8th Street – South City Limit Primarily Residential land use

Zone 1 has the greatest concentration of public parking in the Coastal Zone. Table 5 presents the number and type of public parking spaces available in each analysis subzone. Figure 5 illustrates the number of public parking spaces available on each analyzed street segment and in each of the three public parking lots. Figure 6 illustrates metered and unmetered parking restrictions on each analyzed segment.

Table 5 – Coastal Zone Public Parking Supply

Area Metered Unmetered Parking Lot Total Overall 1,512 2,457 428 4,397 Zone 1 622 1,394 - 2,016 Zone 2 419 764 428 1,611

Zone 3 471 299 - 770

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Figure 5 – Coastal Zone Public Parking Supply


Figure 6 – Public Parking Restrictions

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Coastal Zone Public Parking Occupancy

Occupancy in the Coastal Zone is lightest on weekday afternoons and heaviest on weekend afternoons, with occupancy on weekday evenings more similar to that of afternoons on weekdays than on weekends. Geographically, utilization of parking spaces is highest in Zone 1, with more than twice as many spaces occupied in Zone 1 than in Zone 3 in each surveyed time period. Despite this, occupancy rates (the percent of spaces which are occupied, as opposed to the number of spaces occupied) are highest in Zone 3 due to the unequal distribution of parking spaces between subzones. In Zone 3 on Saturday afternoons, the parking supply nears capacity with an occupancy rate of 98 percent. Overall occupancy in the entire Coastal Zone never exceeds 80 percent. Table 6 presents the number and percent of occupied Coastal Zone public parking spaces cumulatively and in each subzone across the analyzed time periods. Figure 7, Figure 8, and Figure 9 present density maps highlighting high occupancy areas in the Coastal Zone during a weekday afternoon, weekday evening, and weekend afternoon, respectively.

Table 6 – Coastal Zone Parking Occupancy

Area Weekday Afternoon Weekday Evening Weekend Afternoon Overall 2,367 54% 2,756 63% 3,470 79% Zone 1 1,118 55% 1,317 65% 1,712 85% Zone 2 773 48% 825 51% 1,005 62% Zone 3 476 62% 614 80% 753 98%


Figure 7 – Coastal Zone Public Parking Occupancy Density on a Weekday Afternoon

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Figure 8 – Coastal Zone Public Parking Occupancy Density on a Weekday Evening


Figure 9 – Coastal Zone Public Parking Occupancy Density on a Weekend Afternoon

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Residential Permit Parking in the Coastal Zone

The geographic borders of the Residential Parking Permit District are nearly contiguous with the Coastal Zone boundary (see Figure 1). Residential parking permit holders are entitled to park at 24-hour meters without paying the meter or in one hour residential zones without regard to the time limit for up to 72 hours. Employees of local businesses are also entitled to purchase parking permits for an additional fee. Occupancy by residential parking permit holders within the Coastal Zone is heaviest in the evening and on weekends, when almost half of all spaces are occupied by permit holders. In Zone 3 on weekends, permit holders consume almost the entire parking supply (85 percent). Table 7 presents the percent of public parking spaces in each subzone occupied by a parking permit holder’s vehicle across the three analyzed time periods. Figure 10, Figure 11, and Figure 12 present occupancy maps showing occupancy by parking permit holders during a weekday afternoon, weekday evening, and weekend afternoon, respectively.

Table 7 – Coastal Zone Parking Occupancy by Parking Permit Holders

Area Weekday Afternoon Weekday Evening Weekend Afternoon Overall 28% 40% 44% Zone 1 30% 45% 46% Zone 2 20% 25% 22% Zone 3 37% 61% 85%


Figure 10 – Coastal Zone Public Parking Occupancy by Parking Permit Holders on a Weekday Afternoon

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Figure 11 – Coastal Zone Public Parking Occupancy by Parking Permit Holders on a Weekday Evening


Figure 12 – Coastal Zone Public Parking Occupancy by Parking Permit Holders on a Weekend Afternoon

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Occupancy in Public Beach Parking Lots

A total of 428 parking spaces are provided in three public parking facilities, Lots A – C, which are located between Hermosa Avenue and the Strand near Pier Avenue. Lot C provides three electric vehicle charging stations on the third floor of the parking facility.

Overall occupancy of the three lots was lightest on a weekday evening and highest on a weekend afternoon. Occupancy was generally higher than 85 percent, but at no surveyed time did occupancy drop below 79 percent. (During the weekend afternoon survey period, Lot B was closed for a beach event.) Table 8 presents parking supply numbers as well as occupancy rates in the three parking facilities during each of the analyzed time periods. Additionally, Table 8 presents the proportion of parking spaces occupied by a parking permit holder.

Table 8 – Occupancy in Public Parking Lots A – C

Weekday Afternoon Weekday Evening Weekend Afternoon

Lot Supply Occ Rate Permit

Occ Rate Occ Rate Permit

Occ Rate Occ Rate Permit

Occ Rate Overall 428 89% 33% 79% 7% 95% 9% Lot A 130 95% 5% 90% 8% 90% 11% Lot B 37 100% 59% 97% 19% - - Lot C 261 96% 43% 72% 4% 97% 9%


Car2Go

Car2Go is a new one-way point-to-point carsharing service available in the South Bay that allows users to pick up a car parked on the street near their point of origin and leave it parked on the street at their destination. Car2Go launched at the end of July 2014. Two Car2Go vehicles were observed in the Coastal Zone on the surveyed weekday, five were observed on the surveyed weekend day. Table 9 presents the number and location where Car2Go vehicles were observed parking during each of the surveyed time periods. Figure 13 illustrates the location of Car2Go vehicles within the Coastal Zone.

Table 9 – Car2Go Vehicles Parked in the Coastal Zone

Area Weekday Afternoon Weekday Evening Weekend Afternoon Overall 2 1 5 Zone 1 2 1 - Zone 2 - - 3 Zone 3 - - 2

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Figure 13 – Car2Go Vehicles Parked in the Coastal Zone

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Sources │ Hermosa Beach Beach Access and Parking Study

SOURCES

American Community Survey 5-year Estimates, 2008-2012 “Total Population”

American Community Survey 5-year Estimates, 2009-2013 “Means of Transportation to Work by Age”

Streetlight Cell Phone Data, 2013

Hermosa Beach Parking Supply and Occupancy Count Survey Data, August 2014

Hermosa Beach Area Survey, August – September 2014

Hermosa Beach Police Security Video Footage, August 2014

HERMOSA BEACH OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATIONS ANALYSIS

FEBRUARY 2015

a community moving forward

HERMOSA BEACHOVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATIONS ANALYSIS


PREPARED BY:

PREPARED FOR RAIMI + ASSOCIATES AND THE CITY OF HERMOSA BEACH TO SUPPORT THE

GENERAL PLAN UPDATE AND LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM UPDATE

FEBRUARY 2015

CONTENTS

Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................................... 1

Recommended Accommodation Policies ...................................................................................................... 1

Background ..................................................................................................................................................................... 3

Regulatory Background ............................................................................................................................................ 3

Key Issues ......................................................................................................................................................................... 4

References ....................................................................................................................................................................... 6

TABLE

Table 1: Hermosa Beach Hotel Room Inventory .......................................................................................... 3

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Special Events Technical Memo 2015

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INTRODUCTION

As part of the ongoing Hermosa Beach General Plan and Local Coastal Program (LCP) update, PMC evaluated overnight accommodation options within the coastal zone in February 2015 to determine existing conditions and methods of compliance with the California Coastal Act (Coastal Act).

The Coastal Act requires that all members of the public have equal access to the coast. Development cannot interfere with this right, and adequate parking, facilities, and accommodations must be available and affordable for the general public to use. On December 10, 2014, the California Coastal Commission held a workshop to discuss possible avenues to providing lower cost accommodations to the public. This workshop outlined the vision of the Coastal Commission of a California coast that is “available for all to enjoy through … a wide range of visitor-serving facilities, including lower cost campgrounds, hostels, and hotels” (California Coastal Commission, 2014). The workshop outlined a variety of ways to achieve this vision, and provides case studies for reference.

RECOMMENDED ACCOMMODATION POLICIES

The following policies are recommended to ensure Hermosa Beach has an adequate supply of low cost accommodations consistent with the expectations of the City Council and the California Coastal Commission. The recommended policies consider that the market is driving the development of high cost facilities, and will continue to do so.

New visitor-serving facilities should not displace existing lower cost visitor-serving facilities unless an equivalent replacement is provided. Retaining current low cost options is more achievable than establishing lower cost competitors, and working within this framework is advisable. This ensures that new development will not overtake existing low cost options.

Provide low-interest or no-interest loans for improvements to low cost facilities. Low cost accommodations may be financially challenged to make necessary upgrades and renovations. To maintain a consistently neat and presentable appearance, loans can be leveraged without passing on additional costs to visitor-serving facility guests.

2015 Hermosa Beach Special Events Analysis

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Use in-lieu fees to develop lower cost facilities, such as hostels, campgrounds, or chain-model lodging. In-lieu fees have been used by other jurisdictions to offset the impacts of high cost facilities by funding development of low cost accommodations, and has been approved by the Coastal Commission on numerous occasions.

Impose conditions on new discretionary hotel and motel projects located within the coastal zone to require provision of low cost amenities that are accessible to the public following payment of a user fee. Persons participating in coastal activities may choose to stay in lower cost lodging located outside of the coastal zone. This recommendation would ensure equal public access to day use activities and facilities within the coastal zone, while broadening the reach of lower cost lodging options in portions of Hermosa Beach and neighboring communities outside the coastal zone.

Require timeshare facilities located within the coastal zone to operate as a hotel, including use of a centralized reservation system, check-in services, advertising, security, and daily housecleaning. Timeshare buildings often remain unused for portions of the year. Allowing rental of such units when they are vacant can provide additional options to those visiting the coastal zone.

Promote and encourage programs such as AirBnB or HomeAway, and provide information regarding these programs to potential visitors. Prohibit landlords from evicting tenants for using such services, except in cases of damage or excessive noise. These and other websites allow tenants to rent out unused space (e.g., a room, an apartment, a vacation home) to travelers seeking accommodations. These services are new and the full effects on surrounding uses are still being determined. However, at least one study has shown that high use of these facilities in an area does not negatively affect nearby high cost hotels because travelers “who frequent high-end hotels are… much less likely to substitute a hotel stay with an AirBnB stay.” (Georgios Zervas, 2015)


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BACKGROUND

Hermosa Beach has 295 acres located within the coastal zone. The coastal zone spans the entire length of the city from north to south, and from the mean high tide line to roughly Ardmore Avenue, excluding two areas. Hermosa Beach naturally draws a high visitor population. In 2010, monthly beach attendance ranged from 94,300 in December to 939,000 in July, and was up 18.5 from the previous fiscal year. (City of Hermosa Beach, 2014)

As shown in Table 1, two hotels and one motel are located within the coastal zone, with a combined total of 130 rooms. Combined, these locations have an average high rate of $279 per night, and an average low rate of $202 per night. One hostel is also currently located in the coastal zone, with rates from $30 to more than $100 per night, based on room and season. In addition, one additional hotel has been issued a building permit and will provide 30 rooms; one hotel has filed a planning application and is expected to provide more than 100 rooms; and one hotel is in the pre-application process and is also expected to provide more than 100 rooms.

Name Coastal Zone

Number of Rooms High Rate ($)

Low Rate ($)

Beach House Yes 96 419 289

Grandview Inn Yes 17 249 169

Sea Sprite Motel Yes 17 169 149

Surf City Hostel Yes 19 rooms, 4-6 per room 100 30

Hampton Inn & Suites No 70 199 159

Hotel Hermosa No 81 199 98

Holiday Inn Express No 80 rooms, 16 suites 181 145

Quality Inn & Suites No 61 rooms, 17 suites 209 139

In Process

Clash Hotel Yes 30 Building permit issued

Strand & Pier Hotel Yes 100+ Application filed

OTO Development Co. Yes 100+ Pre-Application

*Rates for late February and July weekend, standard room, 2 adults. Rates may vary widely according to day of week and week of month.

Table 1: 2015 Hermosa Beach Hotel Room Inventory


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REGULATORY BACKGROUND

The Coastal Act was adopted in 1976, establishing the California Coastal Commission for the purpose of planning and regulating uses in the coastal zone. One of the main goals of the Commission is to oversee coastal development and ensure public access to the coast. Section 30213 requires coastal communities to protect and encourage lower cost facilities and overnight accommodations for visitors, and outlines limitations to the requirement.

30213. Lower cost visitor and recreational facilities shall be protected, encouraged, and, where feasible, provided. Developments providing public recreational opportunities are preferred.

The commission shall not: (1) require that overnight room rentals be fixed at an amount certain for any privately owned and operated hotel, motel, or other similar visitor-serving facility located on either public or private lands; or (2) establish or approve any method for the identification of low or moderate income persons for the purpose of determining eligibility for overnight room rentals in any such facilities.

KEY ISSUES

High Land Prices

Real estate prices in Hermosa Beach are some of the highest in the country. This presents a challenge for the provision of low cost overnight accommodations, as low cost will inevitably mean low profit due to the high land prices. This makes the establishment, maintenance, management, and retention of new competitors difficult. Independent and local hotels struggle to remain both profitable and presentable while maintaining a lower cost for visitors. Corporate hotels, such as Motel 6 or Ramada Inn, could have more success, but may not be willing to absorb the high development costs, and may not fit the culture desired by the community.


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High Development Pressure

There is high development pressure within the coastal zone, and market demand trends toward higher cost facilities in Hermosa Beach. This pressure makes displacement of lower cost facilities a recognized concern, and minimizes the ability to establish campgrounds or cabins in the coastal zone.

Negative Impacts

Some types of low cost facilities carry the possibility of negative impacts to existing properties. Providing lower cost options may have economic impacts as high-end hotels compete with those options for reservations. There may also be negative physical impacts as low cost options struggle to maintain affordability while keeping facilities updated and well maintained in a high cost area.

Lack of Park Land

A common low cost option for coastal land is campground facilities. Hermosa Beach does not have enough adequately sited park land to make campground facilities feasible, eliminating that as a feasible avenue of affordable accommodations.


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REFERENCES

California Coastal Commission. 2014. Public Workshop: Lower Cost Visitor Serving Accommodations. Accessed February 2015: http://documents.coastal.ca.gov/reports/2014/12/W3-12-2014.pdf

City of Hermosa Beach. 2014. Existing Conditions Report. Accessed February 2015: http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=5179

Georgios Zervas, D. P. 2015. The Rise of the Sharing Economy: Estimating the Impact of Airbnb on the Hotel Industry. Accessed February 2015: http://people.bu.edu/zg/publications/airbnb.pdf

HERMOSA BEACH SPECIAL EVENTS ANALYSIS

APRIL 2015


Can somebody help me update a cover? We need to take the cover from: W:\Hermosa Beach, City of\General Plan and Oil Project Community Outreach\_Task Folders\10_Local Coastal Program\Beach Management_Beach Survey\Final Report\OLD PDF\1. Hermosa Beach GP Cover.pdf and update for 3 new prod-ucts. In all three covers, we will just update any dates to February 2015 and replace “Beach Area Use Survey” with:

•SPECIAL EVENTS ANALYSIS • OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATIONS ANALYSIS

• SEA LEVEL RISE ANALYSIS

HERMOSA BEACH SPECIAL EVENTS ANALYSIS


PREPARED BY:



APRIL 2015

Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................................... 1


Coastal Act Requirements and Local Coastal Program Guidelines .............................................. 1

Existing Coastal Land Use Plan ........................................................................................................................ 3

Hermosa Beach General Plan .......................................................................................................................... 5

Downtown Core Revitalization Strategy ....................................................................................................... 5

Strategic Plan/Other City Plans ........................................................................................................................ 6

Special Event Permit Process ........................................................................................................................... 6

Hermosa Beach Municipal Code ................................................................................................................ 6

Special Event Application Review Process ......................................................................................... 10

Recent Policy Trends .......................................................................................................................................... 11

Special Event Ordinance Update ............................................................................................................. 12

Special Event Characteristics ............................................................................................................................. 13

Size ............................................................................................................................................................................... 13

Timing ......................................................................................................................................................................... 14

Location ..................................................................................................................................................................... 15

Event Days Used ................................................................................................................................................... 17

Key Issues ...................................................................................................................................................................... 18

Community Character ........................................................................................................................................ 18

Economic Vitality ................................................................................................................................................... 19

Healthy Environment and Active Lifestyles .............................................................................................. 19

Environmental Sustainability........................................................................................................................... 19

Special Event Discussion Points ....................................................................................................................... 19

References .................................................................................................................................................................... 25

Attachment A: 2015 Event Summary Matrix and 2014 Events Calendar ..................................... A-1

Table 1: 2014/2015 Days Used by Events ..........................................................................................................

Figure 1: 2015 Percentage of Event Days by Size ..................................................................................... 13

Figure 2: 2015 Event Sizes by Season ............................................................................................................ 14

Figure 3: 2015 Event Days by Location and Season ............................................................................... 15

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Hermosa Beach Special Events Analysis 2015

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The City of Hermosa Beach is currently updating its General Plan and Coastal Land Use Plan (Coastal LUP) and preparing a Local Coastal Program (LCP). In November 2014, the City prepared a Hermosa Beach Area Use Survey to provide existing conditions data to support the LCP process. Survey results included findings on demographics, beach uses, beach access, and beach facilities, amenities, and upkeep.

A fundamental goal of the California Coastal Act of 1976 (Coastal Act) is to provide maximum public access to the coast. In the last several decades, the public and the California Coastal Commission (CCC) have expressed concern regarding how temporary events impact public coastal access, as well as surrounding land uses and coastal resources (CCC 1998).

Hermosa Beach is a major destination for temporary events (known locally as “special events”) and the City receives close to 100 special event applications per year. This technical memo summarizes the regulatory context for special events in Hermosa Beach; describes how the City processes special event applications; summarizes the 2015 special event schedule; and identifies planned improvements to the special event application process. The concluding portion of the memo recommends potential special event policies for discussion with City and Coastal Commission staff. Potential policies that meet City and Coastal objectives may be included in the LCP.

The following section describes existing state and local regulations related to special events in the context of the LCP.

Coastal Act Requirements and Local Coastal Program Guidelines California Coastal Act Subsection 30610(i) addresses “temporary events.” Subsection 30610(i)(1) notes that temporary events are:“[a kind of] development, but are authorized without permit when they do not have any significant adverse impact upon coastal resources.” Subsection 30610(i)(2) notes that this exclusion from the permit process “does not diminish, waive, or otherwise prevent the commission from asserting and exercising its coastal development permit jurisdiction over any temporary event at any time if the commission determines that the exercise of its jurisdiction is necessary to implement the coastal resource protection policies of Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 30200).” These permitting considerations are only relevant where the Coastal Commission retains


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coastal development permit authority (coastal zone segments without a certified Local Coastal Program).

The Coastal Commission published its most recent guidance on temporary events, Guidelines for the Exclusion of Temporary Events from Coastal Commission Permit Requirements, in 1993. The purpose of the guidance is to “identify standards the [Coastal Commission] will use in determining whether a temporary event is excluded from coastal development permit requirements pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 30610(i).” The guidance notes that all temporary events are to be excluded from coastal development permit requirements except those which meet all of the following criteria:

a) Are held between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day; and

b) Occupy all or a portion of a sandy beach area; and

c) Involve a charge for general public admission or seating where no fee is currently charged for use of the same area (not including booth or entry fees).

Additionally, events may be excluded from permit requirements when:

d) The fee is for preferred seating only and more than 75% of the provided seating capacity is available free of charge for general public use; or

e) The event is held on sandy beach area in a remote location with minimal demand for public use, and there is no potential for adverse effect on sensitive coastal resources; or

f) The event is less than one day in duration; or

g) The event has previously received a coastal development permit and will be held in the same location under similar conditions and circumstances.

Even in cases where a temporary event is consistent with the requirements listed above, the Coastal Commission can require that event to be subject to coastal development permit review if that particular event has the potential for the following significant adverse impacts on coastal resources:


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a) The event, either individually or together with other temporary events scheduled before or after the particular event, precludes the general public from use of a public recreational area for a significant period of time; or

b) The event will directly or indirectly impact sensitive natural or visual resources; or

c) The event is scheduled between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day and would restrict public use of roadways or parking areas or otherwise significantly impact public use or access to coastal waters; or

d) The event has historically required a coastal development permit.

In 2013, the Coastal Commission released the updated Local Costal Program (LCP) Update Guide. The document provides guidance and best practices for local governments that are updating an LCP. With regard to Public Access, the guidance notes that, “LCP updates should evaluate whether incremental actions since LCP certification may reduce public access and […] include measures to prevent any reduction in public access.” The “Preventing Loss of Public Access” subsection that covers temporary events reads as follows, “Temporary events staged on beaches also limit use by the general public, especially when they would commit large areas to special, commercial events on most summer weekends. The LCP should address such topics as the type, location, and intensity of such events, including scheduling, transportation to the event, how the location of the event will affect public use, signage, mitigation measures, and clean-up.”

Existing Coastal Land Use Plan The City’s existing (1981) Coastal Land Use Plan1 and appendices do not include policies,

programs, or background information regarding special events.

In 2003, the City prepared a Coastal LUP amendment and Local Implementation Plan which were never certified. Section III: Coastal Recreational Access of the City’s proposed 2003 Coastal LUP amendment includes the following policy:

1 Titled Local Coastal Plan, it is the City’s Coastal Land Use Plan.


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Policy: Temporary events play a valuable visitor-serving role in the city by increasing public access to coastal resources. They attract thousands of people to the city that otherwise might not make the city their destination. Temporary events are regulated through a special event permit process to address public safety, transportation, parking, clean-up and other logistical and operational issues and to minimize the burden they impose on the city’s infrastructure and residents. Temporary events do not have any permanent or significant impact on coastal resources, environmentally sensitive resources or rare or endangered species, nor do they detract from access to the vast stretches of coastline within the city located outside the immediate area of the event. Hence, coastal development permits are not required for temporary events.

The accompanying proposed (but never certified) 2003 Local Implementation Plan included the following provisions:

Definition: [A] “Temporary/Special Event” is an activity or use that does not exceed a sixteen day period on a continual basis, or does not exceed a consecutive four month period on an intermittent basis. A Temporary/Special Event involves the placement of non-permanent structures, such as film sets and equipment, bleachers, perimeter fencing, vendor tents/canopies, judging stands, trailers, portable toilets, sound/video equipment, stages, platforms, which do not involve grading or landform alteration for installation, and/or exclusive use of a sandy beach, parkland, water, streets or parking area which is otherwise open and available for public use, except that the event may exclusively occupy a specific area needed to stage the event.

Exemption: Temporary/Special Event. A coastal development permit shall not be required for temporary/special events that qualify for Special Event Permits under Section 12.28.010 of the Municipal Code [see below], as long as a Special Event permit is issued, pursuant to the procedures and requirements of that Section, addressing the following matters:

a) Off-site parking and shuttle transportation is provided as appropriate for the size of the expected attendance.


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b) Availability of off-site parking and shuttle transportation, if required, is advertised widely to the public in advance of the event.

c) Conditions are imposed to assure that the area used for the event is cleaned and restored to its pre-event condition.

d) The event, including set-up and breakdown/clean-up, does not exceed sixteen (16) days in duration.

A master calendar of special events shall be approved before March 31 of every year and made available for public inspection upon request.

Hermosa Beach General Plan The existing 1994 City of Hermosa Beach General Plan includes the following provisions related to special events.

Land Use Element Goal 3: Encourage land uses which enhance and promote the City’s coastal environment and quality of life.

Primary Objective 3.1: Accommodate coastal-related recreation and commercial uses which serve the year-round needs of visitors and residents.

Implementation Objective 3.1-2: Allow special weekend daytime events in the downtown district that will serve both residents and visitors without infringing on private property rights.

Implementation Objective 3.1-3: Allow the continued use of the City’s public beaches for coastal recreational uses.

Downtown Core Revitalization Strategy In January 2014, the City prepared a Downtown Core Revitalization Strategy which was accepted by the City Council in February 2015. Within the Strategy, the City identifies that Pier Plaza, in particular, is a unique public space resource within the community. The Strategy acknowledges that the scale and organization of the street works well for special events when there are crowds of people using the space, and that the events planned for Pier Plaza should continue and that the City should promote activities such as a regular farmer’s market and other activities to bring residents and families to the area and create a greater sense that the place is meant for both visitors and residents.


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The Strategy also recommends that Pier Plaza be enhanced by extending the palm trees all the way to the Strand and adding lighting, landscape, banners, and upper story uses that reduce the scale of the street so that it feels comfortable when it is not used for special events. Children’s play areas and enhanced bicycle repair, service, rental, and sales facilities would enhance and promote a family-friendly atmosphere desired by many community members for this location. Adding recreational equipment such as play and fitness equipment on the beach near the Pier would also provide a family-friendly amenity.

Strategic Plan/Other City Plans The City’s Strategic Plan (adopted in 2013 and reaffirmed in 2014) includes a 2029 Vision that upholds “The Best Little Beach City,” “Beach Lifestyle,” and “Eclectic Downtown” as key principles, and goals of “More Livable, Sustainable Beach City” and “Enhanced Economic Development and Revitalized Downtown and Entry Corridors.” These are partially defined by the values of:

Strong community events and festivals: some for our residents and some drawing visitors,

Opportunities to meet people, to socialize with diverse people, Appreciation of diverse, contrasting, relaxed lifestyles, All feeling welcome in our community, and A Place for innovators, champions, and iconoclasts to enjoy life and excel.

The Strategic Plan includes an action agenda as well. The City has also adopted an Economic Development Plan “to provide long-term economic health and commerce for the Best Little Beach City that is sustainable and connected to the Community.” Two of several priorities include to “Foster Eclectic Downtown Business Areas” and “Create Destination Tourism and Attractions.” Actions include “Connect Businesses and Events to Funky Beach Culture, and Have Events Match Desired Demographic Markets.”

Special Event Permit Process This section describes the City’s special events application requirements as presented in the Hermosa Beach Municipal Code (HBMC), and as City staff actually implements them on a day-to-day basis.

Hermosa Beach Municipal Code In 2003, the City modified the HBMC to outline the City’s special events permit process. Responsibility for issuing special event permits was delegated to the Community Resources Department, with the City Council approving an annual calendar of events.


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HBMC Section 12.28.010 (Special event permits) reads as follows:

A. For purposes of this Section, a "special event" shall mean any organized event, activity, celebration or function involving the use of City property, rights-of-way, or parkland at which twenty-five (25) or more persons are to be assembled, or use of the beach at which two hundred (200) or more persons are to be assembled. The activities described in Sections 12.28.060 through 12.28.090 and 12.28.110 are "special events" within the meaning of this Section regardless of anticipated or actual attendance.

B. No person shall organize or conduct a special event without first obtaining a permit to do so as prescribed by this Section.

C. Application for a special event permit shall be made on forms provided for that purpose by the Community Resources Department, and shall contain the following information:

1. Name, address, telephone number and other identification information about the person or organization responsible for organizing the event, including its commercial/nonprofit status.

2. The proposed dates and hours of operation of the event, including the period required for set-up and break-down/clean-up.

3. The estimated daily and total attendance at the event (including organizers, participants, spectators, volunteers and others), with an explanation as to the factual basis for the estimate.

4. A description of all organized activities proposed to take place during the event, and whether admission is to be charged.

5. A description or diagram showing the proposed location of the event, including all temporary facilities/structures/signage/equipment to be erected, ingress and egress, number and type of vehicles and whether existing structures/facilities are to be relocated or modified.

6. A parking plan showing the number of public parking spaces to be occupied by the event organizers, the location of satellite parking lots to be used for attendee parking, arrangements for shuttle bus transportation, and plans for publicizing the availability of off-site public parking.


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7. Such other information determined by the Director of Community Resources to be necessary to evaluate the proposed event.

8. A permit fee in any amount determined by resolution of the City Council.

9. A dated signature of the organizer or its authorized agent attesting to the truth, completeness and accuracy of the contents of the application.

D. The Community Resources Director may issue a special events permit upon finding that:

1. The special event, if it falls within Sections 12.28.060 through 12.28.090 and 12.28.110, is included in the annual special event calendar approved by the City Council.

2. The applicant reimburses the City for all costs incurred by the City in connection with the event, including public safety, traffic control and monitoring.

3. The number of estimated attendees can be accommodated at the proposed location and surrounding area.

4. The applicant is capable and qualified to manage the event in a competent, professional manner in accordance with all conditions of approval.

5. Adequate provision has been made for satellite parking, shuttle transportation and traffic control.

6. Adequate provision has been made for security, crowd control, ingress and egress, and clean-up.

7. The total number of days required for the event shall not exceed sixteen (16) days.

8. The applicant provides required insurance, deposits, bonding and indemnification of the City.

E. The Community Resources Director may impose such conditions and operational rules and regulations on the special event permit as are necessary to minimize its impact on the community and to assure that it will not be a detriment to public health and safety. Such conditions include, but are not limited to:


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1. Monetary deposits, bonds and other security as may be necessary to guarantee performance of all required conditions, clean-up and repair of any City property or facilities damaged as a result of the event.

2. Procurement of liability and other insurance policies to protect the applicant and attendees, naming the City and its officials and employees as additional insureds.

3. Limitations on the hours of operation and volume of public address systems and/or amplified music.

F. Any person may appeal a decision of the Community Resources Director as regards a special event permit application by filing an appeal in writing to the City Clerk within ten (10) days of the decision. The appeal shall set forth the grounds upon which the appellant believes the decision is in error or contrary to applicable law. The City Council shall consider and take action on the appeal at its next regular meeting following receipt of the appeal, provided that it may continue its deliberations to a date certain with the consent of the applicant. The decision of the City Council shall be final. (Ord. 03-1230 §1, June 2003)

The Municipal Code defines an additional range of “special events” provisions within the following sections:

12.28.060: Permits required for use by commercial groups. Permits shall be required for any commercial group requesting use of any outdoor area or public facility within the city. Such permits shall be subject to contract negotiations with the city with a set minimum permit fee of one thousand five hundred dollars ($1,500.00) per day plus all costs incurred by the city on behalf of the event.

12.28.070: Nonprofit organizations--permit required. Permits shall be required for any nonprofit group requesting use of any outdoor area or public facility within the city. Such permits shall be subject to a per participant/spectator fee established by resolution of the city council plus all costs incurred by the city on behalf of the event. Any event numbering in excess of one thousand five hundred (1,500) combined participants and spectators shall be subject to contract negotiations with the city and fee adjustments.

12.28.080: Nonprofit organizations--pass-throughs--permit required. Permits shall be required for any nonprofit group requesting use of any outdoor area or facility for a pass-through event within the city. Such events shall be subject to a permit processing fee


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A sample event application is available on the City’s website under the Community Resources Department tab at: http://www.hermosabch.org/index.aspx?page=807

established by resolution of the city council plus all costs incurred by the city on behalf of the event.

12.28.110: Park permits for fundraising activities. A permit shall be required for any Hermosa Beach based nonprofit organization requesting use of a park for fundraising activities. Only Greenwood Park shall be available for this type of use. The above-referenced organizations shall be permitted to reserve the park for this type of activity up to four times per fiscal year. Such permits shall be subject to a permit processing fee established by resolution of the city council plus any direct costs incurred by the city on behalf of the event.

12.28.120: Beach permits. No permits are required for use of beach volleyball courts except for the courts located at the Pier. These courts are reserved by the city for special events.

Special Event Application Review Process In 2003, the City modified the Municipal Code to outline the City’s special events permit process. Discretion regarding the issuance of event permits was delegated to the Department of Community Resources, with the City Council approving an annual calendar of events. At that

time, the City hosted fewer than 10 events per year.2 Since then, the special events program has grown substantially to more than 100 special event applications per year. Staff worked with the Parks, Recreation, and Community Resources Advisory Commission throughout 2013 to revamp how special events were being permitted in order to increase efficiency while continuing to provide a high level of service. After extensive public discussion at four Commission meetings, the Community Resources Department changed procedures for how event applications are previously reviewed and approved as follows:

Event applications are now accepted biannually on a six-month cycle. (Previously they were accepted once a year for an entire year in advance.) Exceptions are made for last minute events.

2 Staff Report to City Council from Community Resources Department, February 24, 2015.

http://www.hermosabch.org/index.aspx?page=807



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Small events (fewer than/up to 500 people) are issued permits at the Community Resources Department staff level.

Large events (more than 500 people) are reviewed in public at a Parks, Recreation, and Community Resources Advisory Commission meeting prior to being approved by the City Council and issued a permit by the Community Resources Department.

Stricter and more coordinated enforcement of existing rules regarding nonprofit status, fee payments, and general oversight. For larger events (more than 500 people) the Community Resources Department conducts an interdepartmental pre- and post-event review of logistics and permit compliance.

In 2014–2015, the City Council held two study sessions to clarify special event policy and confirm this new event approval method. To date, municipal code amendments codifying these changes have not been made. The current de facto approach to special event permit processing is inconsistent with HBMC Section 12.28.010. In practice, the Community Resources Department only processes Special Event Permits for events occurring on the beach, on Pier Plaza, or within the commercial downtown core between 10th Street and 14th Street. The Code requires Council approval of the calendar, yet sometimes there is no Council meeting scheduled between a request to hold an event and the desired event date, and thus no opportunity to present an updated calendar to the Council. According to the Code, if an event is not on the Council-approved calendar, it technically should not be approved. For example, the City received an application to host a small local volleyball tournament on the north end of the Pier on January 17, 2015. As the event was fewer than 500 people, staff approved it according to policy. The special event calendar for 2015 had not yet been approved by the City Council and, therefore, this approval did not conform to the Code.

Recent Policy Trends In 2000, the City Council submitted an application to the Coastal Commission to amend the City's certified Coastal LUP and adopt a Local Implementation Program. Disagreement between the City and Coastal staff over various issues, including the assertion that the City’s proposed ordinance does not distinguish between small, local events that have no impact and larger events that could have a considerable impact on beach access and parking, led to withdrawal of the application, and subsequent efforts to reach agreement over several policy issues, including but not limited to special events, were not successful. The City resubmitted the application in 2003, but it was deemed incomplete by Coastal staff and was never set for hearing.


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As part of these discussions, Coastal staff proposed adopting a temporary events ordinance as part of the LCP, thereby requiring issuance of a Coastal Development Permit (CDP) for temporary events. There was disagreement over which types of temporary events could be excluded from the requirement to obtain a CDP, and which City department should process these permits (the City had proposed the Community Resources Department and the Parks, Recreation, and Community Resources Advisory Commission).

More recent discussion with Coastal staff (February 2010) indicates the primary concerns are the impacts of events on public parking (i.e., charging for parking) and public access to the beach (i.e., consuming a significant amount of space on the beach). It may possible to establish standards within the LCP by which longstanding events could be ‘grandfathered’ in. However the permit process must adhere to the Coastal Commission’s adopted guidelines for temporary events, so the cumulative impact of all summertime events can be assessed, with public input accommodated.

Special Event Ordinance Update In 2014–2015, the City Council held two study sessions to clarify special event policy. Council considered the following questions:

Types of Events o How does the City recommend processing event applications that promote

alcohol or other adult activities? o Does the City wish to approve/allow only special events that qualify as

“family friendly”? Quantity and Size of Events

o Does the City wish to place a limit on the number of events based on size/category?

Level of Oversight o Does the City Council desire to approve each event individually or delegate

these duties to staff and the Parks and Recreation Commission? Return on Investment

o In light of the existing quantity and size of special events, does the Council feel that the City is obtaining an appropriate return on investment?

Relationship to General Plan/LCP Process


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o Does the City intend the direction provided by Council to serve as its definitive policy or as an interim policy which may or should be revisited or confirmed as part of the General Plan/LCP update process?

Although the council members gave verbal comments regarding these questions at the two study sessions, no comprehensive strategy has been adopted. Council and City staff will consider these questions and recommend a strategy to Council as part of the LCP process.

The City receives applications for nearly 100 special events per year. Events range in size from dozens of people participating in small volleyball tournaments to thousands of people attending concerts, fiestas, and beach events. Using the 2015 events calendar as a guide, the City developed a matrix that identifies special events that occur in a typical year (included in this report as Attachment A (the 2014 calendar is also attached)). This section uses the matrix to report special event characteristics including size, timing, location, benefits, and impacts.

Size The City characterizes special events in three size categories. Category 1 events have up to 500 participants, category 2 events have 501–1,000 participants, and category 3 events have more than 1,000 participants. Figure 1 provides a summary of event days by size as

reported in the typical year event matrix.3 The majority of event days have fewer than 500 participants. Events with more than 1,000 participants account for approximately 25 percent of event days.

3 “Event days” represent the number of days for an event on the beach. This term allows the report to account

for events of the same size, but different durations.


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Figure 1: 2015 Percentage of Event Days by Size

Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 Note: Percentage of total days is an approximate estimate for 2015.

In addition to the physical space occupied by special events, event size also determines the parking, circulation, and public safety needs required to support the event. Special event footprints also extend to setup requirements. A small volleyball tournament may only require setting up a couple of pop up tents. A large concert may require parking large trucks on the Strand for extended periods.

Timing Figure 2 presents event days by size and season. The majority of events occur between March and November, and fewer than five event days are scheduled between December and February. Although a large number of event days occur between March and May, the largest impact from special events occurs between June and November when there are typically more large events. Fiesta Hermosa, the city’s largest event, takes place over both the three-day Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends.

≤500 Participants 70%

501-1,000 Participants 5%

>1,000 Participants 25%


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Figure 2: 2015 Event Sizes by Season

Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 Note: Days are an approximate estimate for 2015

Location Special event permits are issued for events located in the commercial downtown core (including the beach) between 10th Street and 14th Street. For 2015, about 50 events are scheduled, totaling approximately 156 event days. One or more days are also required for set-up and tear-down for some events. Figure 3 summarizes planned event days by size and location.

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

December-February March-May June-August September-November

Eve

nt

Day

s

≤500 Participants 501-1,000 Participants >1,000 Participants


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Figure 3: 2015 Event Days by Location and Season

Source: City of Hermosa Beach 2015 Note: Days are an approximate estimate for 2015

Special events are scheduled on most summer weekends. The largest event, Fiesta Hermosa, occupies the downtown core over the three-day Memorial and Labor Day weekends.

Volleyball events are scheduled on more than 60 days, excluding set-up and tear-down. Volleyball courts are provided along the entire length of the beach, but these events are generally concentrated on the courts just north of the Pier. While they are valuable economic activities for the community, such events displace more informal public use of volleyball facilities. The potential to add more volleyball courts is being studied by the Parks, Recreation, and Community Resources Advisory Commission per City Council direction on February 24, 2015.

Pier Plaza is a focus of community, visitor, and commercial activity in the downtown and the gateway to the beach. There are about eight events annually scheduled on Pier Plaza, some of which are half-day events. A new event is the Farmers Market, which will occupy much of Pier Plaza each Wednesday from about 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., including set-up and tear-down. This activity will be conducted as a one-year pilot program beginning in 2015. While significant in frequency and use of space, the event is being relocated from

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

December-February March-May June-August September-November

Eve

nt

Day

s

Beach, North of Pier Pier Beach, South of Pier Strand Pier Plaza


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11th Street and Valley Drive to Pier Plaza in an effort to provide a community- and resident-focused activity on the plaza during a time period when it is typically underused.

The Community Resources Department also administratively issues permits for promotional events on Pier Plaza sponsored both businesses located on the Plaza, and by other enterprises without a presence on the Plaza. In 2014, six special promotions were permitted administratively.

A number of special events reserve City parking lots. In 2015, Lot A or Lot B will be utilized by events on about 32 days, thereby making them unavailable as parking for the general public. While many of these days occur outside the peak summer period (June to September), weekend days are often impacted.

The location of special events and the activity necessary to set up and break them down at the beach near the Pier and Pier Plaza also concentrates activity at the convergence of Pier Plaza, the beach, the Pier, and The Strand, which is also a regional and statewide bicycle and pedestrian resource.

Event Days Used Figures 1, 2, and 3 provide different lenses for assessing how, when, and where special events occur in Hermosa Beach. Table 1 assembles these factors for 2014–2015 into a single metric, called “Days Used by Events.”

Table 1 2014/2015 Days Used by Events

Event Information Location

North Pier South Pier Pier Pier Plaza Strand Total

Category 1

(<501)

Event Days Summer 36% 16%

1%

53%

Other 11% 4% 1%

16%

Set-up Days Summer

Other

Category

2 (501-1,000)

Event Days Summer 3%

3%

Other 1%

1% 2%

Set-up Days Summer

Other

Category

3 (>1,000)

Event Days Summer 13% 13% 4% 7%

37%

Other 2%

1% 3%

Set-up Days Summer 7% 2%

7%

16%

Other 3%

3%


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Total Event Days

Summer 52% 29% 4% 8%

93% Other 13% 5% 1% 1% 2% 22%

Set Up Days Summer 7% 2%

7%

16%

Other 3%

3% Notes: Summer is defined as May 25–Sept. 7 (~100 days); due to available data, dates of some

events were estimated. The Days Used by Events (DUE) metric identifies the cumulative effect of special events over an annual calendar year, subdivided into summer and other months. As shown in Table 1, a special event of one type or another takes place within the coastal zone on about 93% of available summer days in Hermosa Beach. If set up days are included, special events occur practically every day during the summertime. For the largest category of events (Category 3, greater than 1,000 participants), a special event takes place within the coastal zone on about 37% of available summer days. If set up days are included, these large events occur on about 53% of available summer days. It should be noted that the City considers 2014–2015 to represent an above-average condition with regard to special events.

The majority of special event days in Hermosa Beach are for small, single-day events. However, there are a substantial number of large events, which have a heavier impact on coastal access and parking and other services in surrounding neighborhoods. Small events occur throughout the year, with a peak of event days during spring. Large events are most prevalent in the summer, with events also occurring in the spring and fall. Special events use the beach area close to and north of the Pier most frequently, with nearly 30 event days expected in the spring, and an additional 30 event days expected in the summer. Fewer event days are scheduled for the Strand, Pier, or Pier Plaza. However, due to constrained space and direct proximity to other uses, these events may be more obtrusive to those areas.

The City acknowledges that special events simultaneously benefit and impact the quality of life in Hermosa Beach. The following discussion highlights key issues to consider when formulating policies related to special events.

Community Character Special events contribute to the “beach vibe” desired by residents and the community. However, while adding to the diversity of the community, the frequency and size of special events can also create congestion and reduce availability of facilities for locals or visitors


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who are not participating in the event. Special event participants also occupy parking spaces that would otherwise be used by residents or non-event visitors.

Economic Vitality Special events bring visitors to the city that spend money in local establishments. This strengthens the business community and contributes to the tax base. Special events also advertise the City’s desirability, which can help increase tourism revenues.

Healthy Environment and Active Lifestyles From volleyball tournaments to concerts, special events provide numerous public recreation and cultural opportunities that community residents can participate in or enjoy as spectators. The volleyball courts located near Pier Plaza are highly desirable places to play pickup or casual volleyball. Special events displace local participants from some of these courts. Similarly, volleyball tournaments occupy a large number of municipal courts, which can make it challenging for residents or the public to utilize the amenity. In addition the concentration of special events at the convergence of Pier Plaza, the beach, the Pier, and The Strand may at times hamper access by all segments of the population to the Pier and beach from this primary gateway.

Environmental Sustainability Special events require mobilization of resources to support temporary uses. This can result in the inefficient use of resources, create litter and pollution, and increase use of fossil fuels with associated impacts. However, while large events and those designed to attract visitors may have increased impacts, even resident-focused events can result in waste and environmental effects unless they are well-planned and managed.

Special events in Hermosa Beach are expected to implement measures to reduce impacts and costs to the environment, the City, and the community. Applicants are required to complete Environmental Protection Plans, specifying how they will comply with applicable measures for recycling and waste reduction, transportation, energy, marine protection, and public education using a “green matrix” that is part of the special event application. Enhancing monitoring efforts associated with green matrix compliance can help the City identify and recommend best practices that offer practical benefits.

The following discussion points are recommended for consideration during the Coastal Land Use Plan update process to ensure Hermosa Beach provides for special events


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within the coastal zone in a manner that complies with Coastal Act provisions. The policy recommendations recognize that the beach, the Pier, and downtown are home to many special events as well as Coastal Act priority uses.

Following discussion with City and Coastal Commission staff, the discussion points will form a basis for policies that will ultimately be part of a Public Access or similar chapter of the Coastal LUP/General Plan.

1. Establish a maximum number of special events occurring within the coastal zone during the summer months. The City would adopt the following annual DUE standard in the Coastal LUP/General Plan.

Category 3 Summer Events: Maximum 30% DUE, including both set-up and event days.

Total Summer Events: Maximum 70% DUE, including both set-up and event days.

Based on the established standard, the City would require a Coastal Development Permit and/or a Special Event permit for special events in the coastal zone using the following parameters. It should be noted that special events on non-summer days, and special events located on the Pier, Pier Plaza, and The Strand, are not generally subject to Coastal Development Permits.

No Coastal Development Permit would be required for events that a) are within the adopted DUE standard, and b) require fewer than 10 reserved parking spaces in the coastal zone on any set-up or event day. Such events would still require a Special Events permit as described in HBMC 12.28.010 (Special Events) as applicable, and would be subject to prescriptive traffic, parking, resource, access, and cleanup mitigation strategies to be identified in the Coastal LUP/General Plan. The City would list each event and identify the number of event days used and dedicated parking spaces required on the annual Master Events Calendar. The Special Events permit would be approved by the Parks and Recreation Commission, and may be appealed to the City Council.

A Coastal Development Permit would be required for events that a) exceed the adopted DUE standard or b) require 10 or more reserved parking spaces in the coastal zone on any set-up or event day. Such events would also require a Special


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Events permit as described in HBMC 12.28.010 (Special Events) as applicable, and would be subject to event-specific mitigation strategies to be specified in the Coastal Development Permit. The City would list each event and identify the number of event days used and dedicated parking spaces required on the annual Master Events Calendar. The Special Events permit would be approved by the Parks and Recreation Commission, and may be appealed to the City Council. The Coastal Development Permit would be approved by the Parks and Recreation Commission, and may be appealed to the Coastal Commission.

2. Limit the number of large commercial special events and encourage and provide incentives for special events that enhance community, improve economic vitality, and foster a healthy environment and active lifestyles.

Rationale: Although smaller community-oriented events and promotions occur throughout the year, the current mix of special events includes numerous larger, commercial events that may not advance community economic, environment, health, and character goals. Promoting additional events similar to the relocation of the Farmer’s Market provides for more community-oriented activity, and could result in more frequent smaller events, which could improve overall public access.

3. Protect volleyball courts for public use and continue to limit the number of simultaneous volleyball special events occurring north and south of the Pier.

Rationale: Volleyball courts are a major component of beach use in the city. Special events located either north of the Pier or south of the Pier should provide temporary courts at the opposite location to increase the availability of court space, ensuring that the public continues to enjoy access to this recreational amenity during special events.

4. Prioritize events that are family-focused or appeal to a wide segment of community members.

Rationale: Family-focused events are consistent with the community’s desired image and the Downtown Core Revitalization Strategy. Increasing the number of


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approved family-friendly events would reduce potential for inappropriate beach uses, and could be designed to maximize and incorporate public access.

5. Ensure that large special event applicants pay a fair share of costs associated with disproportionate impacts to City services and facilities required to support special events. Special event impacts on services and facilities should not diminish the level of service these facilities provide to community members and non-event visitors.

Rationale: Updating City fees to ensure that special events cover disproportionate impacts to City services and facilities would reduce impacts to City finances, and could generate revenue to fund beach access improvements and protect coastal resources.

6. Ensure that special events do not impede public access to the beach, the Pier, and The Strand.

Rationale: Special events should be designed and timed to ensure that accessibility to the Pier, The Strand, and the beach are maintained for people of all capabilities.

7. Enhance alternative transportation options during special events to improve public access to special events as well as to other non-event portions of the beach.

Rationale: More frequent and extensive bus service could offset parking demand during special events, and increased use of public, shared, and alternative transportation options can reduce single-occupant vehicle impacts. For large events occurring during peak timeframes, the City could also require provision, use, and advertising of predetermined shuttle services. Certain types or sizes of events should also provide bike corrals that have been standardized by the City so that it is easy for applicants to arrange for payment and advertising. Under this program, the City would designate an area for the corrals, a method of operations, and enable event sponsors to either pay for the service or operate it themselves. Fiesta Hermosa provides a good starting model for this service. These services could


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reduce spill-over parking impacts in other portions of the coastal zone beyond the special event location.

8. Improve the parking system to enhance efficiency and the visitor experience.

Rationale: Targeted improvements to meter and cost systems would improve the visitor experience. Improving use of permanent and temporary way finding signs, providing additional remote parking options and shuttle services, and increasing the efficient use of parking would benefit both visitors and community members.

9. Enhance amenities that support use of the beach.

Rationale: Continuing ongoing upgrades of amenities such as restrooms, showers, water fountains, and trash cans would better meet peak demands generated by larger special events. Based on monitoring data from approved special events, the City can identify and prioritize the most-needed upgrades. An updated fee program (see Policy 5) could also be calibrated to respond to this need. During non-event times, these upgrades would directly benefit beach visitors and community members.

10. Enhance the multi-departmental special event review process to promote health and safety, community compatibility, coastal access, and environmental protection. Improve the special event review process to ensure events are consistent with coastal and community goals. The Community Resources Department shall continue to administer the special event process and would determine whether special events require a coastal development permit. If required, a coastal development permit shall be processed by the Community Resources Department and Parks and Recreation Commission. The City will continue to utilize the Parks, Recreation, and Community Resources Advisory Commission for event oversight.

Rationale: City Council and staff could defer special event approvals to the Parks and Recreation Commission to provide greater analysis and oversight. This may need to be coupled with either more frequent Commission meetings or additional


24 | P a g e

administrative approvals, considering that the Commission currently meets only once every two months.

11. Improve sustainability and environmental protection associated with special events. Enhance the special event sustainability/environmental protection plan and review process. Enhance special event enforcement and monitor compliance with environmental protection plans.

Rationale: Through enhanced enforcement, city staff can ensure special event impacts are limited to those anticipated based on conditions of approval applied to special use permits. The City can also use enforcement and monitoring to achieve sustainability and economic development objectives for special events, and to identify needed infrastructure and service enhancements. Using and monitoring compliance with the City’s “green matrix” for special events also promotes protection of coastal resources.


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California Coastal Commission. 1993. Guidelines for the Exclusion of Temporary Events from Coastal Commission Permit Requirements. Accessed March 2015. http://www.coastal.ca.gov/la/docs/temp_events_guidelines.pdf

———. 1998. Regulation of Temporary Events in the Coastal Zone. Accessed February 2015. http://www.coastal.ca.gov/la/docs/temp_events_guidelines.pdf

———. 2013. Local Coastal Program (LCP) Update Guide. Accessed February 2015. http://www.coastal.ca.gov/lcp/LUPUpdate/LCPGuidePartI_Full_July2013.pdf.

City of Hermosa Beach. 1981. Local Coastal Plan (Revised 6/1988, 7/1992, 7/1995, 4/2004). Accessed March 2015. http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=729

———. 1994. General Plan Land Use Element Revision. Accessed March 2015. http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=755

———. 2003. City Council Staff Report for Meeting of February 25, 2003. Report on Local Coastal Program Status and Resubmittal of Local Coastal Plan and Implementation Plan.

———.2010. City Council Staff Report for Meeting of February 23, 2010: Status and Direction Concerning Local Coastal Program to Obtain Coastal Permit Authority. Accessed March 2015. http://hermosabeach.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=6&clip_id=1043&meta_id=57380

———.2014a. City Council Staff Report for Study Session of September 9, 2014. Special Events Policy Discussion. Accessed March 2015. http://hermosabeach.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=6&clip_id=3263&meta_id=158622

———.2014b. Community Resources Department. Tentative Calendar of Events 2014. Accessed March 2015. http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=4862

http://www.coastal.ca.gov/la/docs/temp_events_guidelines.pdf

http://www.coastal.ca.gov/lcp/LUPUpdate/LCPGuidePartI_Full_July2013.pdf

http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=729


http://hermosabeach.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=6&clip_id=1043&meta_id=57380






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2014c. Downtown Core Revitalization Strategy. Accessed March 2015. http://hermosabeach.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=6&clip_id=2857&meta_id=140256

———.2015. Community Resources Department. Tentative Calendar of Events January – July 2015. Accessed March 2015. http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=5567




Special Events Technical Memo - Attachment A: Event Summary Matrix 2015

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The table below reports special events located within the downtown core between 10thth and 14th th Streets. The City of Hermosa Beach City Council approves the Special Event Calendar annually. The full 2014 Special Events calendar is provided at the conclusion of this table.

Specific Use/Event Type Location Date(s) Times/ Duration

Size (persons)

1= up to 500

2=501-1,000 3=>1,001

Access Or Beach

Use Impact (scale of 1-10,

low-high)

Parking Other Event Information

AAU Beach Volleyball Sport Beach, N. & S. of Pier

Seasonal, April-July

5 tournaments annually, 7 days total

1 5 -- Events vary in size

Association of Volleyball Professionals

Sport Beach, N. of Pier Annual, October

3-day tournament +

8 days setup/tear

down

3 (3,000)

10 All of Parking Lot B

requested for 11 days

Large setup including heavy machinery and equipment on the

beach

Beachsports.org Stand Up Paddle Contest

Sport At Pier Annual, May Full-day tournament

1 (150)

3 --

ByLA Speaker Series Community Gathering

Beach, S. of Pier Annual, March

Full-day event

1 3 Did not apply for 2015

CBVA Beach Volleyball Tournament

Sport Beach, N. & S. of Pier

Seasonal, March-

September

8 tournaments annually, 11 days total

1 5 -- Events vary in size

Coastal Cleanup Day Community Gathering

Beach, N. of Pier Annual, September

Morning event

1 2 -- Co-sponsored by City, small event footprint

Smackfest Beach Volleyball Classic

Sport Beach, S. of Pier Annual, May, July, September

1 tournament for 2015: 1 day setup,

and 1 event day

3 (1,600)

5 3 spaces for 2 days in

Parking Lot B

2015 Special Events Technical Memo - Attachment A: Event Summary Matrix

A-2 | P a g e


Size (persons)

1= up to 500

2=501-1,000 3=>1,001

Access Or Beach


low-high)


Hermosa Beach Triathlon Sport Beach, Pier Plaza, Strand

Annual, October

Morning event

3 (2,000)

10 Includes street closures; Parking Lot B and surface street parking

impacted Endless Summer Classic Car Show Community

Gathering Pier Plaza Annual, May Once

annually 1 3 -- Takes place solely on the Plaza

Fiesta Hermosa Community Gathering

Downtown, Beach

Annual, May & Sept.

Twice annually, 3 days each

3 (150,000)

10 All of Parking Lot A used

Hermosa Avenue in downtown core closed; parking greatly impacted

Fin Fest Community Gathering

Lot A, Pier Plaza, Beach, N. & S.

of Pier

Annual, August

Once annually, 3

day event + 1 day for setup

3 (estimated

15,000)

10 All of Parking Lots A & B

used

Includes filming and a concert

Flashes of Hope Kickball Tournament

Sport Beach, S. of Pier Annual, June

Full-day tournament

1 (200)

3 -- Did not apply for 2015

Hermosa Beach 5000 Sport Pier, Pier Plaza Annual, April Once annually, morning

event

1 (500)

10 Includes street closures which impact parking and access

World Surfing Day Sport Beach, N. of Pier Annual, June

Full-day event

1 (300)

3 -- Did not apply for 2015

International Surf Festival Sport Beach, Pier Annual, August

Once annually, 3-day event

3 (2,000) 5 Reserves up to 5 spaces in Parking Lot B

Specific events/competitions taking place in HB vary each year

World Cup Viewing Party Community Gathering

Pier Plaza Semi-annual, June

Evening event

3 (2,000)

7 -- High-density event on the Plaza

Nat’l Honey Board Promotion Community Gathering

Beach, N. of Pier Annual, June

Afternoon 1 (200)

3 Half of Parking Lot B

requested

NVL West Coast Championship Sport Beach, N. of Pier Annual, September

Full-day tournament

2 5 --


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Size (persons)

1= up to 500

2=501-1,000 3=>1,001

Access Or Beach


low-high)


Pier to Pier Run/Walk Sport Beach Seasonal, March, July, November

Morning event

1 2 -- Small footprint

Playfit NVL/Rox Junior Volleyball Sport Beach, N. of Pier Seasonal, June–

September

Full-day tournaments

2 5 --

Rat Beach Bike Tour Sport Strand (pass thru)

Annual, September

Morning & early

afternoon

2 (600)

2 -- Walk-through

Richstone Pier to Pier Walk Sport Beach, Strand Annual, April Once annually

2 (1,000)

3 -- Walk-through, so all event attendees not in same location at

same time Samburu Walk for Water Sport Beach, Strand Annual,

March One day; morning

event

1 1 -- Very minimal since all activities take place on the Strand

Shakespeare by the Sea Community Gathering

Valley Park Annual, July 2 day event, evenings

2 (600)

2 -- Park access is impacted including neighboring residential area

Skechers Pier to Pier Walk Sport Strand, N. of Pier Ave

Annual, October

Once annually; morning

3 (10,000)

2 -- Pass-through

Spyder Surf Fest Sport Pier, Pier Plaza Annual, April Once annually; full

day

3 10 Parking Lot B requested

Use of entire Plaza and Lot B

St. Patrick’s Day Parade Community Gathering

Downtown Annual, March

Once annually; morning

event

3 10 - Includes

closure of streets

Impact on streets closed

for parade route

Summer Concert Series Community Gathering

Beach, No. of Pier & Plaza

4 Sundays in summer

Afternoon/ evening

3 (5,000)

10 Use all of lot B for full day

Summer Luau Volleyball Sport Beach, N. of Pier Annual, August

Full-day event

1 3 --


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Size (persons)

1= up to 500

2=501-1,000 3=>1,001

Access Or Beach


low-high)


Summer Shape Up Sport Beach, N. of Pier, Pier Plaza

Annual, June

One annually; full-day event + 2

days setup

3 (3,000)

5 4 spaces requested for

3 days in Parking Lot B

Ultimate Fitness Expo Sport Pier Plaza Annual, June

Once annually; full-

day event

3 (1,500)

5 12 spaces requested in Parking Lot B

USAV Collegiate Challenge Sport Beach, N. of Pier Annual, April Once annually; 2-

day tournament + 1 day setup;

full days

1 (380)

5 Parking Lot B requested

USAV High Performance Tryouts Sport Beach, N. of Pier Seasonal, March-May

4 dates 1 3 --

USAV Collegiate Beach Challenge Sport Beach, N. of Pier Annual, April Once annually, full

day

1 (450)

5

USAV Jr. Beach Tour HB Open Sport Beach, N. of Pier Seasonal, May-June

2 tournaments

1 (400)

3 --

USAV Jr. Beach Tour Premiere Winter Series

Sport Beach, N. of Pier Seasonal, Jan. – March

3 tournaments

1 (400)

3 --

USAV High Performance Transition Week

Sport Beach, N. of Pier Annual, May Once annually, weeklong

1 (200) 3 --

Volleyball Ventures Coed Tournaments

Sport Beach, N. of Pier Annual, multiple

Monthly one-day

tournaments

1 (250)

3 --

West Coast Beach Tennis Sport Beach, N. of Pier Seasonal, May–

October

5 tournaments, 10 days total

1 3 -- Takes place at Beach Tennis Courts and includes use of

temporary courts


A-5 | P a g e


Size (persons)

1= up to 500

2=501-1,000 3=>1,001

Access Or Beach


low-high)


Volleyball, open Sport Beach, N. of Pier, S. of Pier

Daily Groups of 2-12

2 – limited impact

Surfing/Stand Up Paddle, open Sport Ocean, Beach Daily Ongoing Individual 1 Biking/skating/skateboarding, open

Sport Strand/Pier Plaza Daily Ongoing Individual 2

Farmers Market Community Pier Plaza Every Wednesday, 11 am-4 pm

New event starting in

2015

Open to community

People can still access

beach, Strand and pier via Pier Plaza

One year pilot. Chamber of Commerce. About 45 tents on Pier Plaza, set up/breakdown extends time to about 9:30 am-6:00 pm.

Will occupy most of the plaza outside dining encroachments.

OTHER

Pier Plaza Business Promotions Pier Plaza Businesses

Pier Plaza Merchants on Pier Plaza can apply for promotions adjacent to their

business per administratively approved permit.

Pier Plaza Promotions (Other) Commercial product or service promotions

Pier Plaza 1 day; maximum 5 per year per

applicant

Others can apply to use Pier Plaza per administratively approved

permit. Cannot conflict with other uses.

http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?document

id=4638

City Recreation Classes

Beach Volleyball (Beg/Int/Adv) Beach volley ball classes

Just S. of Pier Plaza

Feb 1 to Mar 8, 2015

Sundays 9:30 am-11:30 am

Ages 14-80

Filming





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Size (persons)

1= up to 500

2=501-1,000 3=>1,001

Access Or Beach


low-high)


Film permits http://www.hermosabch.org/index.aspx?page=250

Various Various Various Various Various Various



City of Hermosa Beach - Community Resources Department 710 Pier Avenue ● Hermosa Beach, CA ● 90254 | Telephone: 310-318-0280 | Fax: 310-372-4333

TENTATIVE CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2014 Visit our website at www.hermosabch.org for updates!

Date Name Location CR

Dept HB Co-

Sponsor Non-Profit Comm

January 16 “Skyway to Heavenly” American Junkie Pier

Plaza Fundraiser Plaza X

February 23 Unveiling of the 4th Mural, " Hermosa

Swimwear Evolved " 500 Pier Av X

28 Amenzone Fitness/Sharkeez Merchant Promo Plaza X

March 8 GI Joe Pier to Pier Walk/Run Beach X 15 St. Patrick’s Day Community Parade Downtown X 16 USAV HP Tryouts Beach/N. Pier X 22 Hearts of Hermosa Fundraiser Comm. Center X 22 ByLA Speaker Series Beach/S Pier X 29 CBVA Tournament Beach/N. Pier X 30 Samburu Walk for Water Beach/Strand X

April 5 AAU Beach Volleyball Beach/N. Pier X 5 Surfer’s Walk of Fame Ceremony Pier X 5 Spyder Surf Fest Plaza X 6 USAV HP Tryouts Beach/N. Pier X

12-13 USAV Collegiate Challenge Beach/N. Pier X 19 CBVA Tournament Beach/N. Pier X 19 Hermosa Beach 5000 Downtown X 25 Assemblyman Muratsuchi Press Conf Pier Head X 26 HBLL Night at the Ballpark Clark Stadium X 26 Richstone Pier to Pier Walk Beach/Strand X 26 USAV HP Tryouts Beach/N. Pier X

May 3 15th Annual HB Classic Car Show Plaza X 3 Smackfest/Cuatro de Mayo VB Beach/S Pier X 10 USAV HP Tryouts Beach/N. Pier X

10-11 West Coast Beach Tennis Tournament Beach/N. Pier X 12-18 USAV HP Tryouts Transition Week Beach/N. Pier;

S/Pier (5-17) X

14 Garden Club Plant Sale Clark Bldg X 17 CBVA Tournament Beach/N. Pier X 18 Leadership HB VB Pole Unveiling Beach

23-26 Fiesta Downtown X 24-26 CBVA Tournament Beach/N. Pier X

26 Beachsports.org SUP Contest Pier X 31 AAU Beach Volleyball Beach/N. Pier X

June 5 Car2Go Press Conference Pier Head X 6 National Honey Board Sweet Relief Promo Beach/N.Pier X 7 Flashes of Hope Kickball Tournament Beach/S. Pier X 8 USAV Junior Beach Tour Beach/N. Pier X

http://www.hermosabch.org/

Date Name Location CR Dept

HB Co-Sponsor

Non-Profit Comm

Revised:10/30/2014 at 11:19:58 AM

Page 2 of 3

12 Silvio’s BBQ AYSO Fundraiser Merchant Promo

Plaza

14 AAU Beach Volleyball Beach/N. Pier X 14-15 Artwalk Comm. Center X

16 LA Galaxy World Cup Viewing Party Pier Plaza X 18 LA Kings Celebration Parade Strand X 20 Hurley World Surfing Day Beach N Pier X 21 Ultimate Fitness Expo-Promotion Plaza X 22 Target Activewear Pier Plaza Promotion Plaza X

21-22 West Coast Beach Tennis Tournament Beach/N. Pier 23 Playfit NVL/ROX Junior Series Beach/N. Pier 26 LA Galaxy World Cup Viewing Party Pier Plaza X 28 Summer SHAPE Up Beach/N Pier &

Plaza X

30 Playfit NVL/ROX Junior Series Beach/N. Pier July

4 NO EVENTS – Independence Day 7-10 Playfit/NVL BVCA Volleyball Beach N Pier X 12 GI Joe Pier to Pier Walk/Run Beach X

12-13 AAU Beach Volleyball Beach/N. Pier X 12 Smackfest VB Tournament Beach/S Pier 19 Car2Go Pier Plaza Promotion Pier Plaza X

14-20 USAV HP Championships Beach/N. Pier X 16-17 Shakespeare by the Sea (tent) Valley Park X

26 Bicycle Safety Promotion Pier Plaza X 24-27 AAU Beach Volleyball Beach/N. Pier X

August 1-3 International Surf Festival Beach/Pier X 2-3 CBVA Tournament Beach/N. Pier X 3 Summer Concert #1 Beach/S. Pier X 8 Playfit NVL/ROX Junior Series Beach/N. Pier 9 CBVA Tournament Beach/N. Pier X

9-10 Discovery Channel’s Fin Fest Lot A/Plaza X 10 Summer Concert #2 Beach/S. Pier X 11 Playfit NVL/ROX Junior Series Beach/N. Pier 16 Summer Luau Volleyball Beach/N. Pier X

16-17 Chamber Summer Sidewalk Sale Pier Plaza X 17 Summer Concert #3 Beach/S. Pier X

23-24 West Coast Beach Tennis Tournament Beach/N. Pier X 24 Summer Concert #4 Beach/S. Pier X

8/29-9/1 Fiesta Downtown X 30-31 CBVA Tournament Beach/N. Pier X

September 6 CBVA Tournament Beach/N. Pier X 13 Smackfest/Fall Classic VB Beach/N. Pier X

19-21 NVL West Coast Championships Beach/N Pier X 20 Playfit NVL/ROX Junior Series Beach/S. Pier X 27 Rat Beach Bike Tour (Pass Through) Strand X

27-28 West Coast Beach Tennis Tournament Beach/N. Pier X 20 Coastal Cleanup Day Beach/N. Pier X

Date Name Location CR Dept

HB Co-Sponsor

Non-Profit Comm

Revised:10/30/2014 at 11:19:58 AM

Page 3 of 3

October 11 Volleyball Ventures Co-ed Volleyball Tourney Beach/N. Pier X 12 Hermosa Beach Triathlon Beach/Pier

Plaza X

18 Pumpkins in the Park Edith Rodaway X 19 Woman’s Club Pancake Breakfast Clark X 23 Ocean Spray Fitness Event Beach/N. Pier X

25-26 West Coast Beach Tennis Tournament Beach/N. Pier X 26 Skecher’s Pier to Pier Walk Strand/N. Pier X

November 8 GI Joe Pier to Pier Walk/Run Beach X 11 Veterans Commemoration Ceremony Vets Memorial X 15 LA County Lifeguard Flag Ceremony Base of Pier X 16 LA County Lifeguard Memorial Service North of Pier X 22 USAV Volleyball Junior Beach Tour Premiere

Winter Series North of Pier X

December 4 Chamber Tree Lighting Ceremony Plaza 6 Sand Snowman Contest Beach/N. Pier X 13 USAV Volleyball Junior Beach Tour Premiere

Winter Series North of Pier X

20 Chanukah Celebration Plaza X

HERMOSA BEACH OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATIONS ANALYSIS

FEBRUARY 2015


HERMOSA BEACHOVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATIONS ANALYSIS


PREPARED BY:



FEBRUARY 2015

CONTENTS

Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................................... 1

Recommended Accommodation Policies ...................................................................................................... 1

Background ..................................................................................................................................................................... 3


Key Issues ......................................................................................................................................................................... 4

References ....................................................................................................................................................................... 6

TABLE

Table 1: Hermosa Beach Hotel Room Inventory .......................................................................................... 3

This page is left blank intentionally


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INTRODUCTION

As part of the ongoing Hermosa Beach General Plan and Local Coastal Program (LCP) update, PMC evaluated overnight accommodation options within the coastal zone in February 2015 to determine existing conditions and methods of compliance with the California Coastal Act (Coastal Act).

The Coastal Act requires that all members of the public have equal access to the coast. Development cannot interfere with this right, and adequate parking, facilities, and accommodations must be available and affordable for the general public to use. On December 10, 2014, the California Coastal Commission held a workshop to discuss possible avenues to providing lower cost accommodations to the public. This workshop outlined the vision of the Coastal Commission of a California coast that is “available for all to enjoy through … a wide range of visitor-serving facilities, including lower cost campgrounds, hostels, and hotels” (California Coastal Commission, 2014). The workshop outlined a variety of ways to achieve this vision, and provides case studies for reference.

RECOMMENDED ACCOMMODATION POLICIES

The following policies are recommended to ensure Hermosa Beach has an adequate supply of low cost accommodations consistent with the expectations of the City Council and the California Coastal Commission. The recommended policies consider that the market is driving the development of high cost facilities, and will continue to do so.

New visitor-serving facilities should not displace existing lower cost visitor-serving facilities unless an equivalent replacement is provided. Retaining current low cost options is more achievable than establishing lower cost competitors, and working within this framework is advisable. This ensures that new development will not overtake existing low cost options.

Provide low-interest or no-interest loans for improvements to low cost facilities. Low cost accommodations may be financially challenged to make necessary upgrades and renovations. To maintain a consistently neat and presentable appearance, loans can be leveraged without passing on additional costs to visitor-serving facility guests.


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Use in-lieu fees to develop lower cost facilities, such as hostels, campgrounds, or chain-model lodging. In-lieu fees have been used by other jurisdictions to offset the impacts of high cost facilities by funding development of low cost accommodations, and has been approved by the Coastal Commission on numerous occasions.

Impose conditions on new discretionary hotel and motel projects located within the coastal zone to require provision of low cost amenities that are accessible to the public following payment of a user fee. Persons participating in coastal activities may choose to stay in lower cost lodging located outside of the coastal zone. This recommendation would ensure equal public access to day use activities and facilities within the coastal zone, while broadening the reach of lower cost lodging options in portions of Hermosa Beach and neighboring communities outside the coastal zone.

Require timeshare facilities located within the coastal zone to operate as a hotel, including use of a centralized reservation system, check-in services, advertising, security, and daily housecleaning. Timeshare buildings often remain unused for portions of the year. Allowing rental of such units when they are vacant can provide additional options to those visiting the coastal zone.

Promote and encourage programs such as AirBnB or HomeAway, and provide information regarding these programs to potential visitors. Prohibit landlords from evicting tenants for using such services, except in cases of damage or excessive noise. These and other websites allow tenants to rent out unused space (e.g., a room, an apartment, a vacation home) to travelers seeking accommodations. These services are new and the full effects on surrounding uses are still being determined. However, at least one study has shown that high use of these facilities in an area does not negatively affect nearby high cost hotels because travelers “who frequent high-end hotels are… much less likely to substitute a hotel stay with an AirBnB stay.” (Georgios Zervas, 2015)


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BACKGROUND

Hermosa Beach has 295 acres located within the coastal zone. The coastal zone spans the entire length of the city from north to south, and from the mean high tide line to roughly Ardmore Avenue, excluding two areas. Hermosa Beach naturally draws a high visitor population. In 2010, monthly beach attendance ranged from 94,300 in December to 939,000 in July, and was up 18.5 from the previous fiscal year. (City of Hermosa Beach, 2014)

As shown in Table 1, two hotels and one motel are located within the coastal zone, with a combined total of 130 rooms. Combined, these locations have an average high rate of $279 per night, and an average low rate of $202 per night. One hostel is also currently located in the coastal zone, with rates from $30 to more than $100 per night, based on room and season. In addition, one additional hotel has been issued a building permit and will provide 30 rooms; one hotel has filed a planning application and is expected to provide more than 100 rooms; and one hotel is in the pre-application process and is also expected to provide more than 100 rooms.

Name Coastal Zone

Number of Rooms High Rate ($)

Low Rate ($)

Beach House Yes 96 419 289

Grandview Inn Yes 17 249 169

Sea Sprite Motel Yes 17 169 149

Surf City Hostel Yes 19 rooms, 4-6 per room 100 30

Hampton Inn & Suites No 70 199 159

Hotel Hermosa No 81 199 98

Holiday Inn Express No 80 rooms, 16 suites 181 145

Quality Inn & Suites No 61 rooms, 17 suites 209 139

In Process

Clash Hotel Yes 30 Building permit issued

Strand & Pier Hotel Yes 100+ Application filed

OTO Development Co. Yes 100+ Pre-Application

*Rates for late February and July weekend, standard room, 2 adults. Rates may vary widely according to day of week and week of month.

Table 1: 2015 Hermosa Beach Hotel Room Inventory


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The Coastal Act was adopted in 1976, establishing the California Coastal Commission for the purpose of planning and regulating uses in the coastal zone. One of the main goals of the Commission is to oversee coastal development and ensure public access to the coast. Section 30213 requires coastal communities to protect and encourage lower cost facilities and overnight accommodations for visitors, and outlines limitations to the requirement.

30213. Lower cost visitor and recreational facilities shall be protected, encouraged, and, where feasible, provided. Developments providing public recreational opportunities are preferred.

The commission shall not: (1) require that overnight room rentals be fixed at an amount certain for any privately owned and operated hotel, motel, or other similar visitor-serving facility located on either public or private lands; or (2) establish or approve any method for the identification of low or moderate income persons for the purpose of determining eligibility for overnight room rentals in any such facilities.

KEY ISSUES

High Land Prices

Real estate prices in Hermosa Beach are some of the highest in the country. This presents a challenge for the provision of low cost overnight accommodations, as low cost will inevitably mean low profit due to the high land prices. This makes the establishment, maintenance, management, and retention of new competitors difficult. Independent and local hotels struggle to remain both profitable and presentable while maintaining a lower cost for visitors. Corporate hotels, such as Motel 6 or Ramada Inn, could have more success, but may not be willing to absorb the high development costs, and may not fit the culture desired by the community.


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High Development Pressure

There is high development pressure within the coastal zone, and market demand trends toward higher cost facilities in Hermosa Beach. This pressure makes displacement of lower cost facilities a recognized concern, and minimizes the ability to establish campgrounds or cabins in the coastal zone.

Negative Impacts

Some types of low cost facilities carry the possibility of negative impacts to existing properties. Providing lower cost options may have economic impacts as high-end hotels compete with those options for reservations. There may also be negative physical impacts as low cost options struggle to maintain affordability while keeping facilities updated and well maintained in a high cost area.

Lack of Park Land

A common low cost option for coastal land is campground facilities. Hermosa Beach does not have enough adequately sited park land to make campground facilities feasible, eliminating that as a feasible avenue of affordable accommodations.


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REFERENCES

California Coastal Commission. 2014. Public Workshop: Lower Cost Visitor Serving Accommodations. Accessed February 2015: http://documents.coastal.ca.gov/reports/2014/12/W3-12-2014.pdf

City of Hermosa Beach. 2014. Existing Conditions Report. Accessed February 2015: http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=5179

Georgios Zervas, D. P. 2015. The Rise of the Sharing Economy: Estimating the Impact of Airbnb on the Hotel Industry. Accessed February 2015: http://people.bu.edu/zg/publications/airbnb.pdf

HERMOSA BEACH COASTAL PRIORITY USES ANALYSISMAY 2015


HERMOSA BEACH COASTAL PRIORITY USES ANALYSIS


PREPARED BY:



MAY 2015

CONTENTS

Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................................... 1

What Are Priority Uses? ............................................................................................................................................. 1


Coastal Act Requirements ................................................................................................................................... 1

Article 3, Section 30222, Recreation ........................................................................................................... 2

Article 6, Section 30254, Public Works Facilities .................................................................................. 2

Article 6, Section 30255, Priority of Coastal-Dependent Developments .................................. 2

Article 7, Section 30260, Location or Expansion of Industrial Facilities ................................... 2

Existing Coastal Land Use Plan ........................................................................................................................ 2

Hermosa Beach General Plan .......................................................................................................................... 3

Hermosa Beach Zoning Code and Zoning Map ..................................................................................... 3

Existing Conditions ...................................................................................................................................................... 4

Key Issues ...................................................................................................................................................................... 10

Commercial and Recreational Priority Uses ........................................................................................... 10

Coastal-Dependent and Coastal-Related Commercial Land Use Designations ................. 11

Coastal-Related and Local-Serving Commercial Uses ..................................................................... 11

Non-Commercial Priority Uses ...................................................................................................................... 12

Discussion Points ...................................................................................................................................................... 12

References .................................................................................................................................................................... 15

Appendix A .................................................................................................................................................................... 16

TABLES Table 1. Summary of Coastal-Dependent and Coastal-Related Priority Uses (2014) ...... 9

FIGURES Figure 1. Coastal Dependent Businesses ............................................................................................... 6

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Priority Uses Report 2015

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INTRODUCTION

As part of the ongoing Hermosa Beach General Plan and Coastal Land Use Plan update, PMC evaluated coastal-dependent and coastal-related uses within the coastal zone (as of December 2014) to determine existing conditions and methods of compliance with the California Coastal Act.

WHAT ARE PRIORITY USES?

The Coastal Act requires that any development or use that is dependent upon the coast to function (“coastal-dependent”) be given priority over those that are not. In turn, any development that is itself dependent upon a coastal-dependent development or use (“coastal-related”) must be given secondary priority over other developments in the coastal zone (California Coastal Commission 1976).

The Coastal Act defines a coastal-dependent development or use as “any development or use which requires a site on, or adjacent to, the sea to be able to function at all.” It defines a coastal-related development or use as “any use that is dependent on a coastal-dependent development or use.” Coastal-dependent uses must be accommodated on or near the coast, and coastal-related uses must be accommodated near related coastal-dependent uses. The City of Hermosa Beach (City) interprets commercial and recreational uses that fit these definitions as within the purview of coastal-dependent and/or coastal-related uses. These uses are considered among the “priority uses” established by the California Coastal Commission (Commission).

According to the Commission’s (2013) Local Coastal Program (LCP) Update Guide, jurisdictions should designate locations on the general plan land use map for priority uses in accordance with the Coastal Act, and develop policies, incentives, and zoning that give priority uses first allocation of limited public services.


The following section describes existing state and local regulations related to coastal priority uses in greater detail.

Coastal Act Requirements The Coastal Act was adopted in 1976, establishing the California Coastal Commission for the purpose of planning and regulating uses in the coastal zone. One of the Commission’s main goals is to oversee coastal development and ensure public access to the coast.

2015 Priority Uses Report

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Section 30001.5(d) of the Coastal Act lists as a goal of the state for the coastal zone to “assure priority for coastal-dependent and coastal-related development over other development on the coast.”

The Coastal Act provides further direction relative to priority and coastal-dependent uses in the following sections.

Article 3, Section 30222, Recreation

The use of private lands suitable for visitor-serving commercial recreational facilities designed to enhance public opportunities for coastal recreation shall have priority over private residential, general industrial, or general commercial development, but not over agriculture or coastal-dependent industry.

Article 6, Section 30254, Public Works Facilities

Where existing or planned public works facilities can accommodate only a limited amount of new development, services to coastal-dependent land use, essential public services and basic industries vital to the economic health of the region, state, or nation, public recreation, and visitor-serving land uses shall not be precluded by other development.

Article 6, Section 30255, Priority of Coastal-Dependent Developments

Coastal-dependent developments shall have priority over other developments on or near the shoreline. Except as provided elsewhere in this division, coastal-dependent developments shall not be sited in a wetland. When appropriate, coastal-related developments should be accommodated within reasonable proximity to the coastal-dependent uses they support.

Article 7 Section 30260, Location or Expansion of Industrial Facilities

Coastal-dependent industrial facilities shall be encouraged to locate or expand within existing sites and shall be permitted reasonable long-term growth where consistent with this division.

Existing Coastal Land Use Plan Hermosa Beach’s current Coastal Land Use Plan (1981) identifies only recreational uses as coastal-dependent. The following activities are listed:

Swimming Surfing Sightseeing/photography Fishing


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Sand castle building Treasure hunting

No commercial or resource-oriented uses are identified as coastal-dependent.

The Coastal Act provisions listed above are incorporated by reference into the Hermosa Beach Coastal Land Use Plan via the plan appendices.

Hermosa Beach General Plan The existing City of Hermosa Beach General Plan (1994) includes the following provisions related to priority uses.

Land Use Element Goal 3: Encourage land uses which enhance and promote the City’s coastal environment and quality of life.

Primary Objective 3.1: Accommodate coastal-related recreation and commercial uses which serve the year-round needs of visitors and residents.

Implementation Objective 3.1-1: Provide a specific list of coastal-related recreation and commercial uses for the downtown district and specific definitions of such uses.

In addition, the Land Use Element defines a Commercial Recreation land use designation, as follows:

Commercial Recreation: Uses in this category found to be acceptable to the Coastal Commission are motels/hotels, bicycle shops, beach recreational equipment, entertainment, clothing, and similar uses.

Hermosa Beach Zoning Code and Zoning Map The Zoning Code and Zoning Map establish the following zoning districts within the coastal zone, for the specific purposes listed below.

Neighborhood Commercial (C-1) – intended to provide sites for a mix of small local businesses appropriate for, and serving the daily needs of nearby residential neighborhoods; while establishing land use regulations that prevent significant adverse effects on abutting residential uses


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Downtown Commercial (C-2) – intended to provide opportunities for a limited range of office, retail, and service commercial uses specifically appropriate for the scale and character of the downtown resident and visitor-serving, pedestrian-oriented shopping/entertainment district

Light Manufacturing (M-1) – intended to provide appropriately located areas consistent with the General Plan for a range of light manufacturing and warehousing and distribution uses and certain appropriate service commercial uses

Open Space (OS) – intended to prohibit intensive urban development to those primary open space areas of the city which are necessary to assure permanent open space in and for public parks and recreation areas; and where such intensive urban development would adversely affect public use and natural environmental benefits

Restricted Open Space (OS-2) – intended to restrict further the use of certain designated open space to assure permanent open space for public park purposes

Various residential zones, including single-family, multifamily, Residential Professional, and one mobile home park

Specific Plan Area (SPA) 11, Upper Pier Avenue, is also located within the coastal zone. This specific plan permits primarily commercial uses along upper Pier Avenue.

EXISTING CONDITIONS

Hermosa Beach has 295 acres located within the coastal zone. The coastal zone spans the entire length of the city from north to south and from the mean high tide line to roughly Ardmore Avenue, excluding two primarily residential areas. Within the coastal zone, the current General Plan Land Use Map designates 10 parcels totaling 0.9 acres as Commercial Recreation, clustered near 14th Street and Hermosa Avenue. These parcels are all zoned C-2, Downtown Commercial.

There were 1,019 licensed businesses located within the coastal zone in Hermosa Beach as of December 2014. Many of these uses are home occupations. Based on the analysis described below, 48 of the 1,019 licensed businesses in the coastal zone potentially fit the definition of either a coastal-dependent use or a coastal-related use. These uses include visitor-serving commercial and recreation, overnight accommodations, and marine manufacturing and education. The list of potential uses that fit these broad descriptions was narrowed to those businesses which could not feasibly function in a location far from


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the coast or outside of the coastal zone. All gift/souvenir shops and beach recreation uses located within the coastal zone were included, such as equipment rentals and sales, volleyball facilities, and the Starfish marine education center. The list of visitor-serving businesses in the bar and restaurant use category was generally restricted to those located between 1 and 100 Pier Avenue (see Figure 1).


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Figure 1. Coastal-Dependent Businesses


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Nine types of existing uses within the coastal zone qualify as coastal-dependent (see Table 1). As shown in Figure 1, most of these uses are located either in Downtown or the upper Pier Avenue area. Most current coastal-dependent uses are located in the General Commercial land use designation and C-2 zone district.

Six restaurants and 15 bars and restaurants are identified as coastal-dependent. These are predominantly located Downtown and along lower Pier Avenue in the General Commercial land use designation and C-2 zone district.

Four coastal-dependent hotels are located on The Strand, upper Pier Avenue, 14th Street, and 11th Street. Three are located in the General Commercial land use designation and one is located in the Commercial Recreation designation. All are located in the C-2 zone district. One additional coastal-dependent hotel has recently been issued a building permit, one coastal-dependent hotel has filed a planning application, and one coastal-dependent hotel is in the pre-application process.

Eleven coastal-dependent retail stores are located in downtown and along Pier Avenue. These shops sell souvenirs, beach clothing and accessories, and equipment such as bicycles and surfboards. All are located in the General Commercial designation and in either the C-2 zone district or the Upper Pier Avenue Specific Plan area. These visitor-serving establishments depend on tourism and provide services or merchandise related to the coast. Their viability is directly related to a location near the coast.

Three coastal-related businesses rent coastal recreation equipment to support surfing, biking, and paddleboarding. These businesses are located Downtown on Hermosa Avenue. All are located in the General Commercial land use designation and in either the C-2 zone district or the Upper Pier Avenue Specific Plan area. These uses sell, rent, and service equipment supporting coastal-dependent recreation uses.

Two coastal-related volleyball organizations operate administrative facilities along upper Pier Avenue. These operations provide services and equipment to support coastal-dependent beach volleyball recreation uses. These uses are located in the


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General Commercial land use designation and the Upper Pier Avenue Specific Plan area.

Two coastal-related travel agencies are located on Hermosa Avenue and upper Pier Avenue. These uses are located in the General Commercial land use designation and in either the C-2 zone district or the Upper Pier Avenue Specific Plan area. These agencies attract business based on their location in a coastal zone and provide services supporting coastal-dependent hotel and recreational uses.

Three coastal-related surfboard manufacturing businesses are located in the Cypress District on Cypress Avenue and Valley Drive. These uses are located in the Industrial land use designation and M-1 zone district. Surfing is a coastal-dependent use; thus, manufacturing of surfboards can be considered coastal-related.

The coastal-dependent Starfish Creative Learning Center is located in the Open Space land use designation and OS zone district. The center provides early childhood education regarding marine life and ecosystems.


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Table 1. Summary of Coastal-Dependent and Coastal-Related Priority Uses (2014)

Use Type Type of

Priority Use Number of Businesses

General Plan

Designation Zone District Location Description

Restaurant Coastal-Dependent

6 General Commercial,

one in Commercial Recreation

C-2 Downtown, lower Pier Avenue, with one on Hermosa Avenue

Visitor-serving near coast

Bar & Restaurant

Coastal-Dependent

15 General Commercial

C-2 Lower Pier Avenue, with a few scattered in other Downtown locations

Visitor-serving near coast

Hotel/Motel

Coastal-Dependent

4 General Commercial, Grandview in Commercial Recreation

C-2 The Strand, upper Pier Avenue, 14th

Street, 11th Street

Visitor-serving overnight accommodations; three additional hotels recently approved or in process

Equipment Rental

Coastal-Related


C-2, SPA 11

Hermosa Avenue and upper Pier Avenue

Recreation equipment (surfing, biking, paddleboarding)

Retail

Coastal-Dependent


C-2, SPA 11

Downtown and upper Pier Avenue, with two on Hermosa Avenue and one on 13th Street

Visitor-serving near coast, and/or coastal-related merchandise (clothing, surfing or beach equipment and accessories, and souvenirs)


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Travel Agency

Coastal-Related


C-2, SPA 11

Upper Pier Avenue, Hermosa Avenue

Visitor-serving, relies on coast for business

Sporting recreation (volleyball)

Coastal-Related


SPA 11 Upper Pier Avenue

Coastal-related recreation

Surfboard manufacturing

Coastal-Related

3 Industrial M-1 Cypress Avenue and Valley Drive

Coastal-related manufacturing

Educational Facility (Starfish)

Coastal-Dependent

1 Open Space OS Upper Pier Avenue

Marine education center, coastal-dependent

Total Priority Uses 48

Note: See Appendix A for detailed listing of coastal-related and coastal-dependent uses.

Source: Data from City of Hermosa Beach, 2014; compiled by PMC, 2015.

KEY ISSUES

Commercial and Recreational Priority Uses The current Coastal Land Use Plan, adopted in 1981, addresses the subject of priority uses by recognizing recreational activities such as swimming, surfing, and fishing. However, the current General Plan, adopted in 1994, references priority uses primarily in a commercial context as supply stores and recreational businesses, such as surf shops and fishing supply stores. The General Plan and the Coastal Land Use Plan must be consistent and should also accommodate any industrial coastal-related uses within the coastal zone, such as surfboard manufacturers. Therefore, the integrated General Plan and the Coastal Land Use Plan should address the priority of recreational, commercial, and industrial coastal-dependent uses in a consistent manner.

The Local Coastal Program (LCP) Update Guide prepared by the California Coastal Commission classifies visitor-serving commercial uses as priority uses, and marine-dependent industrial and energy facilities as coastal-dependent. Hermosa Beach further


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designates commercial and recreational uses as priority uses. These uses must be accommodated within the coastal zone through policy and zoning. For comparison purposes, the Newport Beach Coastal Land Use Plan (2009) and Zoning Ordinance (Title 20, Planning and Zoning) (2010) establish a Recreational and Marine Commercial zone to accommodate all coastal-dependent, coastal-related, and other types of priority uses. The City of Newport Beach also includes a Mixed-Use Water-related zone, which is separate from Neighborhood Commercial. This may be a good model for Hermosa Beach.

Coastal-Dependent and Coastal-Related Commercial Land Use

Designations In the proposed Hermosa Beach Land Use Element, the Commercial Recreation land use designation within the coastal zone would be established as the preferred location for coastal-dependent uses. The updated General Plan would establish a maximum 2:1 floor area ratio for such uses, and the extent of the Commercial Recreation designation would be expanded to encompass both sides of Pier Avenue below Hermosa Avenue, both sides of 14th Street below Hermosa Avenue, and the land side of The Strand between 13th Street and 10th Street to better match General Plan designations to existing zone districts. These provisions would become a part of the Coastal Land Use Plan, and corresponding districts would be established or updated in the Zoning Code. This area is predominantly zoned C-2 today.

Coastal-dependent or coastal-related commercial uses would be given priority over local-serving uses in this area. If there is not a suitable location in the Recreational Commercial designation for these uses, they may be accommodated elsewhere in the coastal zone in the Community Commercial designation (e.g., upper Pier Avenue) but would not have the same priority over local-serving uses. Most uses provided for in the Recreational Commercial designation should also be provided for in the Community Commercial designation. The key difference between uses in the two designations should be priority.

Coastal-Related and Local-Serving Commercial Uses Hermosa Beach community members have expressed a strong desire for more local-serving commercial uses. The requirement to prioritize coastal-dependent uses could conflict with this desire. Given the limited amount of land that can accommodate commercial use in Hermosa Beach, it is necessary to find a way to balance local-serving uses with coastal priority uses. Giving coastal-dependent uses priority in the Recreational Commercial designation while giving local-serving uses priority in the Community Commercial designation, as described above, is a potential approach. Establishing both


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permitted and priority uses and realigning commercial zoning districts to correspond more directly to the Recreational Commercial and Community Commercial land use designations could clarify the City’s intent regarding priority commercial uses. Priority uses would be permitted by right in Recreational Commercial areas and would be permitted with a conditional use permit in Community Commercial areas.

Non-Commercial Priority Uses Commercial uses are the predominant category of priority use in Hermosa Beach. In addition, some industrial uses in the Cypress District (e.g., surfboard makers) could also be considered coastal-related and given priority in the Creative Industrial land use designation and M-1 zone district. The Coastal Act also requires the City to address prioritization of other uses, including industrial, energy, and recreation. The Commission’s updated LCP guidelines recommend that updated land use designations, policies, and ordinances address changing demand for energy and coastal-dependent industry, and respond to emerging technologies and their potential impacts. Although these uses are not planned or anticipated to occur within the coastal zone in the foreseeable future, they should be accounted for in the Coastal Land Use Plan should the future need arise.

DISCUSSION POINTS

The following discussion points are recommended for consideration during the Coastal Land Use Plan update process to ensure priority uses are effectively accommodated through General Plan policies, zoning, and/or incentive programs.

The discussion points will form a basis for policies or specific revisions in the Coastal Land Use Plan/General Plan and revisions to the Zoning Code/Local Implementation Program following discussion with City and Commission staff. This information is based on a review of other adopted LCPs and Commission guidance documents, but has been tailored to respond to issues specific to conditions in Hermosa Beach.

1. Establish the following policies in the General Plan/Coastal Land Use Plan to convey priority to coastal-dependent and coastal-related uses: a) Coastal-dependent uses shall have priority over other developments on or near the

shoreline, unless present and foreseeable future demand for such facilities is already adequately provided for in the area.

b) Coastal-related uses should be accommodated within reasonable proximity to the coastal-dependent uses they support.


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The plan should clarify that these policies are not restricted to commercial and industrial coastal-dependent and coastal-related uses. Rationale: Fulfills Coastal Act requirements for priority placement of coastal-dependent and coastal-related uses.

2. Establish in the General Plan/Coastal Land Use Plan that coastal-dependent and coastal-related commercial uses shall be provided for in both the Recreational Commercial and Community Commercial designations and that such uses shall be prioritized in the Recreational Commercial designation. Similarly, establish in the General Plan that coastal-related industrial uses shall be provided for and prioritized in the Creative Industrial land use designation. Rationale: Ensures that coastal-dependent and coastal-related uses have clear, preferred places to locate with as few barriers as possible.

3. Realign commercial zoning districts in the Zoning Code/Local Implementation Plan and on the Zoning Map to correspond more directly to the Recreational Commercial and Community Commercial General Plan land use designations. This may be accomplished either by contracting the C-2 (Restricted Commercial) zone district to match the Recreational Commercial General Plan designation or by rezoning the remaining areas currently zoned C-2 to other zones corresponding to their General Plan designation. Alternatively, the City could create a new C-4 (Coastal Commercial) zone district to be applied to properties designated Recreational Commercial in the General Plan.

Rationale: Allows quick, clear, and efficient placement and allocation of resources for coastal-dependent uses when they are established.

4. Establish definitions of “coastal-dependent use,” “coastal-related use,” and “priority use” in the updated Zoning Code/Local Implementation Plan. For each, identify a list of priority uses that meets each definition and would be given priority in the C-2 (or new Coastal Commercial) or M-1 zone districts. Ensure that the lists include non-commercial priority uses established under the Coastal Act. In the allowed use tables for each zone district, identify the priority commercial uses as allowed by right in the C-2 (or Coastal Commercial) zone district and as allowed subject to a conditional use permit in the C-1 zone district. Identify the priority industrial uses as allowed by right in


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the M-1 zone district. Examples of priority uses include but are not limited to fishing and surfing supply and repair; restaurants, resorts, and other visitor-serving uses which require a coastal location to be profitable; and coastal-dependent industries. Rationale: Allows specificity, but is also broad enough to provide flexibility in the establishment of new uses.


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REFERENCES

California Coastal Commission. 1976. California Coastal Act. Public Resources Code Division 20. http://www.coastal.ca.gov/coastact.pdf.

———. 2013. Local Coastal Program (LCP) Update Guide.

———. 2014. Public Workshop: Lower Cost Visitor Serving Accommodations. December 10. http://documents.coastal.ca.gov/reports/2014/12/W3-12-2014.pdf.

City of Hermosa Beach. 1981. Local Coastal Plan. http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=729.

———. 1994. General Plan. http://www.hermosabch.org/index.aspx?page=500.

———. 2014. Existing Conditions Report. http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=5179.

City of Newport Beach. 2009. Coastal Land Use Plan. http://www.newportbeachca.gov/PLN/LCP/Internet%20PDFs//CLUP_Cover%20and%20Table%20of%20Contents.pdf.

———. 2010. Municipal Code. Title 20, Planning and Zoning. http://www.codepublishing.com/CA/NewportBeach/?NewportBeach20/NewportBeach20.html .

County of Santa Barbara. 2009. Coastal Land Use Plan. http://longrange.sbcountyplanning.org/programs/genplanreformat/PDFdocs/CoastalPlan.pdf.

Zervas, Georgios, Davide Proserpio, and John W. Byers. 2015. "The Rise of the Sharing Economy: Estimating the Impact of Airbnb on the Hotel Industry." Boston University. http://people.bu.edu/zg/publications/airbnb.pdf.


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APPENDIX A

Map ID Use Category Business Name Address

GP Desig.

Zoning District

1 Bar & Restaurant Abigaile & Ocean Bar 1301 Manhattan Ave GC C-2

2 Bar & Restaurant Aloha Sharkeez 52 Pier Ave GC C-2

3 Hotel/Motel Beach House 1300 Strand GC C-2

4 Retail Beach Planet 31 Pier Ave GC C-2

5 Travel Agency Beach Travel Inc. 215 Pier Ave A GC SPA-11

6 Retail Beachy Keen Bay 1038 Hermosa Ave GC C-2

7 Retail Becker Surfboards 301 Pier Ave GC SPA-11

8 Equipment Rental Bikenets Public Sharing 200 Pier Ave #302 GC SPA-11

9 Retail Curious... 128 Pier Ave GC SPA-11

10 Travel Agency Dealangel Inc. 832 Hermosa Ave GC C-2

11 Restaurant Downtown Bakery/Cafe Bonaparte 37 Pier Ave GC C-2

12 Sporting Recreation Elite Beach Volleyball

14th And

The Strand (On The Sand) N/A OS

13 Bar & Restaurant Fat Face Fenners Fishack 53 Pier Ave GC C-2

14 Restaurant Fat Face Fenners Fishook/ Paradise Sushi 53 Pier Ave GC C-2

15 Hotel/Motel Grandview Inn LLC 55 14th St CR C-2

16 Bar & Restaurant Greenbelt 36 Pier Ave GC C-2

17 Bar & Restaurant Hennessey’s Tavern 8 Pier Ave GC C-2

18 Restaurant Hermosa Beach Yacht Club 66 Hermosa Ave NC C-1

19 Equipment Rental

Hermosa Cyclery Inc. – Rental 20 13th St GC C-2

20 Retail Hermosa Cyclery Inc. – Retail 20 13th St GC C-2

21 Bar & Restaurant

Killer Shrimp Hermosa Beach LLC 19 Pier Ave GC C-2

22 Bar & Restaurant La Playita Restaurant 37 14th St CR C-2

23 Bar & Restaurant Lighthouse Cafe 30 Pier Ave GC C-2

24 Retail Luna G 200 Pier Ave #301 GC SPA-11

25 Bar & Restaurant Mediterraneo 73 Pier Ave GC C-2

26 Sporting Recreation National Volleyball League 200 Pier Ave GC SPA-11

27 Retail Niosha Inc. dba Beach Shop 49 Pier Ave GC C-2


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28 Bar & Restaurant Palmilla 39 Pier Ave GC C-2

29 Bar & Restaurant Patrick Molloy’s 50 Pier Ave GC C-2

30 Retail Pier Surf 21 Pier Ave GC C-2

31 Restaurant Project Taco LLC 34 Pier Ave GC C-2

32 Restaurant Rico’s Italian Ice 934 Hermosa Ave GC C-2

33 Bar & Restaurant

Sangria dba American Junkie 68 Pier Ave GC C-2

34 Bar & Restaurant Silvio’s Brazilian BBQ 20 Pier Ave GC C-2

35 Hotel/Motel St. Francis Hotel 24 11th St GC C-2

36 Educational Facility Starfish 2521 Valley Dr OS OS

37 Hotel/Motel Surf City Hostel 26 Pier Ave GC C-2

38 Equipment Rental

Tarsan Stand-Up Paddle Boarding 936 Hermosa Ave #105 GC C-2

39 Bar & Restaurant The Mermaid 11 Pier Ave GC C-2

40 Restaurant Tiki Mon – Snack Shop 29 Pier Ave GC C-2

41 Retail Treasure Chest 50 Pier Ave GC C-2

42 Sporting Recreation USA Volleyball 200 Pier Ave

Ste 134 GC SPA-11

43 Bar & Restaurant Watermans Hb 22 Pier Ave GC C-2

44 Retail Wicked + (Retail) 145 Pier Ave Ste A GC SPA-11

45 Retail Yak & Yeti 1124 Hermosa Ave GC C-2

46 Manufacturing Mangiagli Manufacturing 640 Cypress Ave IND M-1

47 Manufacturing McGivern Surfboards 717 Valley Dr #D-1 IND M-1

48 Manufacturing DANC Surfboards 640 Cypress Ave IND M-1

HERMOSA BEACH SEA LEVEL RISE ANALYSIS

FEBRUARY 2015


HERMOSA BEACH SEA LEVEL RISE ANALYSIS


PREPARED BY:



FEBRUARY 2015

CONTENTS

Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................................... 1

Key Findings .................................................................................................................................................................... 2

Climate Change Impacts and Exposure to Coastal Hazards ............................................................ 2

Social, Economic, and Infrastructure Vulnerabilities ............................................................................. 2

Sea Level Rise Principles .......................................................................................................................................... 3

Recommended Adaptation Strategies .............................................................................................................. 5

Ongoing Regional Strategies ............................................................................................................................. 5

Ongoing Local Strategies .................................................................................................................................... 6

Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Planning ...................................................................................... 8

Summary and Conclusion .................................................................................................................................. 8

Vulnerability and Adaptation to Sea-Level Rise: An Assessment for the City of Hermosa Beach is included with this memo as Attachment 1.

Hermosa Beach Sea Level Rise Analysis 2015

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INTRODUCTION

Flood risks from coastal storms and sea level rise constitute two important threats to coastal cities in California and around the world. They can negatively affect public safety, economic activity, and human well-being unless residents, businesses, and local government take appropriate preparatory actions. With climate change, these risks are expected to increase, requiring additional adaptive actions to prevent harm and damage.

The City of Hermosa Beach has had a focus on green development, sustainability, and climate action for several years, and is updating the Coastal Land Use Plan (CLUP) as part of the ongoing General Plan update. The City is working on developing a certified Local Coastal Program (LCP) to reflect the changing risks to coastal areas and to develop appropriate policies and actions to avoid or minimize the risk of disaster and harm to residents, infrastructure, and the local economy.

At the same time that the City is updating its General Plan/CLUP and LCP, the California Coastal Commission has released Draft Guidance on how to assess and address sea level rise risks in local communities (California Coastal Commission, draft of December 2013). This more specific guidance follows on (and is consistent with) previous guidance from the Ocean Protection Council (2011) on sea level rise scenarios to use in planning and development by coastal communities and state agencies.

While acting in an advisory capacity, the City expects that the Coastal Commission—in the process of reviewing and approving the updated CLUP—will take a careful look at underlying documentation describing whether or not risks and vulnerabilities have been assessed and whether or not the City is considering the best available science on sea level rise, coastal hazards, and adaptation.

In response to these considerations, the City has prepared a report titled Vulnerability and Adaptation to Sea-Level Rise: An Assessment for the City of Hermosa Beach. The report, included as Attachment 1 to this memo, provides an in-depth assessment of sea level rise risks for the city and has three goals:

1. Provide up-to-date information about sea level rise and its associated flood risks. 2. Examine where in the city and in what ways infrastructure, the built environment,

business activity, and city residents are vulnerable to these growing risks. 3. Explore how the City can address these risks through appropriate preparatory and

adaptive actions in its LCP and through other means.

2015 Hermosa Beach Sea Level Rise Analysis

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The City believes the report is consistent with the Coastal Commission's guidance (as currently conceived, pending further updates). This memo summarizes key findings and policy recommendations from the report.

KEY FINDINGS

The Vulnerability and Adaptation to Sea-Level Rise: An Assessment for the City of Hermosa Beach report provides the following summary findings about Hermosa Beach's vulnerability to sea level rise and related flood and erosion risks.

Climate Change Impacts and Exposure to Coastal Hazards As noted in Figure 2 (page 17) of the attached report, the 100-year flood zone is

projected to increase by 300% under a scenario of 55 inches of sea level rise (from 0.034 square miles at present to 0.1 square miles with 55 inches of sea level rise). The projected flood zone encompasses more than 200 buildings, including 143 residences, and about 1,000 residents (not accounting for any future infill development or population growth).

Figure 2 (page 17) of the attached report also illustrates that the 100-year flood zone with 55 inches of sea level rise could extend inland from the Strand to Hermosa Avenue, particularly in central and southern portions of the city.

Long before the average sea level is 55 inches higher than the 2000 baseline, a smaller global average sea level rise combined with a strong El Niño can result in a similarly high, if temporary, sea level situation. During such El Niño winters, coastal storms can cause significant beach erosion and flood damage.

The amount and rate of beach loss as a result of sea level rise could not be assessed in this study. However, the well-established scientific understanding of physical beach dynamics makes clear that the beach will not remain stable as sea level increases. Absent continued beach replenishment in the littoral cell, the shoreline can be expected to retreat at an accelerated rate as sea level rises.

Social, Economic, and Infrastructure Vulnerabilities The greatest exposure to flood risks in the central and southern coastal areas of

the city coincides with the greatest social vulnerability in Hermosa Beach (see Figure 16, page 41 of the attached report). This overlap of challenges should be carefully considered in emergency response planning and in longer-term adaptation planning.


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The typically high social vulnerability of homeless, transient, and disabled populations could not be displayed in a spatially referenced way due to data limitations. However, they do require particular attention in emergency situations.

In the central and southern parts of the city, infrastructure vulnerabilities related to the aging sewage system, streets, and some iconic structures and associated business activities coincide with the greatest exposure to flooding in a future 100-year flood (see Part A, Section 6 of the attached report). This requires particular attention both for disaster preparedness and long-term adaptation planning.

To the extent business and residential areas are at risk of inundation during a future major flood and cannot easily evacuate or be reached by emergency responders, the vulnerability of residents in the affected areas increases substantially. This occurs in neighborhoods located seaward of Hermosa Avenue. These areas require special attention in disaster preparedness and long-term adaptation planning.

The city's greatest economic and cultural asset is the beach. As sea level rises, this asset is at risk of increased beach erosion and—eventually, permanent submergence. Without continued beach replenishment, this cornerstone of the city's economy can be expected to decline over time and diminish in its effectiveness as a storm buffer, resulting in growing exposure of residential and business establishments along the Strand and in near-shore areas to future flooding.

SEA LEVEL RISE PRINCIPLES

The Vulnerability and Adaptation to Sea-Level Rise: An Assessment for the City of Hermosa Beach report notes that the Coastal Commission's (draft) guidance on updating LCPs is fundamentally guided by the principles and goals first expressed and codified by law in the California Coastal Act of 1974. Thus, protecting public access to the coast for all, preserving the natural and cultural resources that make the California coast unique, avoiding or minimizing coastal hazards, fostering thriving coastal communities, and ensuring public safety are overriding principles.

With specific reference to climate change, sea level rise, and related coastal challenges, the Commission's guidance spells out several specific principles that the LCP update should adhere to:


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To minimize the risk of urban sprawl (and related increase in vehicle miles travelled and transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions), preference should be given to infill development.

Scenic resources (including beaches) should be protected as much as possible. In the case of new development, (1) risks to life and property in areas of high

geologic, flood, and fire hazard shall be minimized, and (2) stability and structural integrity must be assured, so that it neither creates nor contributes significantly to erosion, geologic instability, or destruction of the site or surrounding area or in any way requires the construction of protective devices in the future. Preference should be given to responses to coastal hazards that minimize negative impacts on coastal resources. The Commission suggests this be achieved through mechanisms such as the following:

o Avoid locating new development in hazardous areas, wherever feasible. o Require assurance of safety and stability for the life of a development

(generally 75-100 years). o If a hazard cannot be avoided entirely, maximize avoidance through safer

design of new development such as elevation above the base flood elevation.

o Development that is so hazardous that it constitutes a significant risk to the public should not be allowed.

LCP updates should be used as opportunities to comprehensively address the development and protection of coastal lands, waters, and resources.

Armoring should be minimized and shoreline areas and sand supplies should be protected and restored, taking into account projected sea level rise.

Where shoreline protection is needed and allowed, the adverse impacts of allowed protection should be minimized, and alternative forms of shoreline protection that do not involve armoring should be facilitated.

In addition to Coastal Commission guidance, the 2013 State of California Hazard Mitigation Plan notes the following objective:

Reduce the potential risk of death, injuries, property damage, and economic and social dislocation resulting from fires, floods, earthquakes, landslides, and other hazards.


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RECOMMENDED ADAPTATION STRATEGIES

Hermosa Beach is a built-out community. The adaptation strategies most appropriate for the city focus on maintaining the beach as the economic and cultural center of the city and its most important storm and coastal flood buffer. In addition, adaptation strategies address growing flood risks and saltwater intrusion, which will reduce the need for more profound future adaptation actions. Hermosa Beach can implement many measures that will allow the community to adapt in place while continuing to enjoy the benefits of being a coastal community.

Consistent with the principles and objectives above, the report recommends a comprehensive menu of sea level rise adaptation strategies applicable to coastal communities. Drawing from this menu, this summary reviews important strategies for Hermosa Beach and the Coastal Commission to consider relative to the LCP update. (For a complete list and extended discussion of adaptation strategies, see Part B, Section 4.3 of the attached report.)

Ongoing Regional Strategies Continue participating in the regional partnership in climate change assessment

and adaptation planning. o Participate in the Los Angeles Regional Collaborative for Climate Action and

Sustainability (LARC). The City of Los Angeles, working with LARC and the University of Southern California Sea Grant Program, conducted a vulnerability assessment to support the development of adaptation strategies. Over the next few years, this effort will expand to include the entire the Los Angeles region. Hermosa Beach should continue to participate actively in all stages of the process.

o Update the scientific basis for coastal adaptation planning. New sea level rise projections will become available over the course of the General Plan update or shortly thereafter. The City should use forthcoming information to implement Coastal Commission guidance to use "the best available science."

Pursue a regional approach to sediment management and adaptive shoreline protection.

o Participate in regional sediment management planning. Hermosa Beach has benefited from beach replenishment upstream in the littoral cell which created a far wider beach than would otherwise naturally exist. Continued


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active participation in regional sediment management will allow Hermosa Beach to voice its needs, allow for coordination with neighboring jurisdictions, and identify creative finance mechanisms.

o Develop a long-term adaptive shoreline management policy. Options for shoreline management include beach replenishment, shoreline armoring, and managed retreat. Hermosa Beach should consider the cost-effectiveness of these shoreline adaptation alternatives.

Ongoing Local Strategies Provide public information about flooding risks and promote household disaster

preparedness. o Develop flood risk educational materials and distribute them widely and

repeatedly. With the 100-year flood zone projected to increase 300% under the 55-inch sea level rise scenario, areas previously not affected by flooding will become flood prone. Residents, visitors, homeowners, renters, developers, and insurers may be unaware of these growing risks. Best practices to communicate flood risks and inspire household-level disaster preparedness are available from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Coastal Services Center.

o Require flood risk disclosure and active acknowledgment of flood risk in property purchases/turnovers. Expected lifetimes for most Hermosa Beach buildings extend well past 2050 and into 2100. Time-of-sale flood risk disclosure requirements should include sea level rise information.

Provide public information about climate change risks and adaptation alternatives. o Communicate climate change risks and what the City is doing to address

them. A comprehensive, scientifically informed approach to climate risk communication should affirm well-established knowledge through extensive scientific research (including what remains uncertain), why climate change matters locally, and what different actors (from the individual to the City, to the state of California, to the US, to the global community of nations) are doing and can do to address the challenges.

o Provide frequent updates to keep climate change messaging fresh, and to signal the importance of the issue. In a communication environment in which everyone is overwhelmed with information, it is important to keep


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climate change on the radar screen through relatively frequent, short, and interesting communication.

Update development and redevelopment policies. o Update Hermosa Beach Municipal Code definitions. Hermosa Beach should

consider defining the economic lifespan of structural development in accordance with Coastal Commission recommendations: The economic lifespan of a development should be defined to be at least 75 or 100 years unless otherwise specified, and should be restricted for specific development proposals, and redevelopment, reconstruction, or remodel.

o Update flood elevation requirements for infill and redevelopment projects. According to the California Coastal Act, new development (and redevelopment) should be directed to reduce risks to life and property and avoid substantial changes to natural landforms. Infill, rebuild, and redevelopment projects within the projected 100-year flood zone with 55-inches of sea level rise (or future updated sea level rise projections) should be elevated above the expected base flood elevation. The City should define thresholds as to when this policy would apply.

o Update building height restrictions to account for increased flood elevation requirements for new development and redevelopment. A policy requiring elevation of new structures above the base flood elevation with a 55-inch sea level rise may also necessitate updating height limits for buildings.

o Update parking requirements associated with infill and redevelopment. If structures are required to be elevated above base flood elevation with a 55-inch sea level rise, parking requirements for new buildings may be met on-site below the first livable floor. This would require adjustments to City parking policies and standards.

Reduce flood vulnerability of existing structures. Retrofitting existing residential, government, and commercial structures and encouraging flood-safe behaviors can substantially reduce vulnerability of existing structures.

Reduce flood vulnerability of existing infrastructure. o Continue stormwater runoff improvements. The City has taken proactive

steps to manage stormwater runoff, which supports adaptation to climate change. Particularly, recent stormwater projects supported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and using funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act have helped filter stormwater runoff along the Strand.


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o Integrate sea level rise considerations into the repair and replacement of aging infrastructure. The City is already considering sewer and drainage infrastructure rehabilitation, and should take sea level rise into account as necessary and applicable (e.g., in areas that may be inundated by flood waters over the expected lifetime of newly placed or rehabilitated infrastructure), and in the future when infrastructure is repaired or replaced under higher sea level conditions.

Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Planning Update tsunami emergency response planning.

o Ensure that tsunami emergency response considers social vulnerability before, during, and after the event. As the social vulnerability assessment conducted in this study revealed, different segments of the population have different needs before, during, and after an emergency. These considerations should inform tsunami emergency planning.

Improve emergency response planning. o Review and improve evacuation, emergency response, and recovery plans

by considering identified vulnerabilities. The social and infrastructure vulnerability assessments conducted in this study should motivate and inform a review of the existing evacuation, emergency, and recovery plans, particularly for the area seaward of Hermosa Avenue.

o Assess the costs and benefits of joining the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The City currently does not participate in the NFIP. This limits access to certain federal hazard mitigation funds, which could be used to implement many of the adaptation strategies listed here. Participation would also provide the opportunity for homeowners and business owners to obtain lower cost flood insurance.

Summary and Conclusion Many of the adaptation and disaster preparedness strategies listed here cut across many areas of concern that should be addressed in the LCP update. Others are specifically geared toward just one. Table 7 of the attached report identifies which LCP issue area is addressed by each strategy.

HERMOSA BEACH WATER QUALITY ANALYSIS

MAY 2015


HERMOSA BEACH WATER QUALITY ANALYSIS


PREPARED BY:



MAY 2015

CONTENTS Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................................... 1

Water Quality Regulatory Framework ................................................................................................................ 1

Federal, State, and Regional Plans, Policies, Regulations, and Laws ........................................... 1

Local Plans, Policies, Regulations, and Laws ............................................................................................ 9

Existing Water Quality Conditions ..................................................................................................................... 10

Surface Water ......................................................................................................................................................... 10

Stormwater Runoff ............................................................................................................................................... 13

Groundwater ........................................................................................................................................................... 13

Water Quality Key Issues ....................................................................................................................................... 14

Water Quality Discussion Point .......................................................................................................................... 14

References .................................................................................................................................................................... 17

TABLES

Table 1: Impaired Water Bodies in the Planning Area ............................................................................ 11

Table 2: Dry-Weather Bacteria Exceedance TMDL ................................................................................. 12

Table 3: Wet-Weather Bacteria Exceedance TMDL ............................................................................... 12

Water Quality Analysis 2015

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INTRODUCTION

The City of Hermosa Beach is currently updating its General Plan and Coastal Land Use Plan (Coastal LUP) and preparing a Local Coastal Program (LCP). The City’s LCP will implement and be consistent with the California Coastal Act of 1976 (Coastal Act). Section 30231 of the Coastal Act requires LCPs to address the protection and enhancement of marine and coastal water quality.

WATER QUALITY REGULATORY FRAMEWORK

Since the Coastal Act became law, numerous other laws and regulations have been established to provide a strict and comprehensive water quality regulatory framework. By complying with this regulatory framework, the City demonstrates consistency with the Coastal Act. To illustrate consistency with the Coastal Act and provide background information for the LCP, this document describes the applicable local, regional, and state water quality regulatory frameworks and existing water quality conditions in Hermosa Beach (referred to hereafter as the “planning area”).

Federal, State, and Regional Plans, Policies, Regulations, and Laws

California Coastal Act of 1976 The Coastal Act and the California Coastal Commission, the state’s coastal protection and planning agency, were established by voter initiative in 1972 to plan for and regulate new development and to protect public access to and along the shoreline. The Coastal Act considers water quality and water-related public safety concerns as issues of public importance.

To provide maximum public access to the coast and public recreation areas, the Coastal Act directs each local government located within the coastal zone to prepare an LCP consistent with Section 30501 of the Coastal Act, in consultation with the Coastal Commission and with public participation. Water quality requirements are included in Section 30213 of the Coastal Act:

Section 30231. The biological productivity and the quality of coastal waters, streams, wetlands, estuaries, and lakes appropriate to maintain optimum populations of marine organisms and for the protection of human health shall be maintained and, where feasible, restored through, among other means, minimizing adverse effects of waste water discharges and entrainment, controlling runoff, preventing depletion of ground water supplies and substantial interference with

2015 Water Quality Analysis

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surface waterflow, encouraging waste water reclamation, maintaining natural vegetation buffer areas that protect riparian habitats, and minimizing alteration of natural streams.”

Federal Clean Water Act The Clean Water Act (CWA) of 1972 is the primary federal law that governs and authorizes the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the states to implement activities to control water quality. The following sections outline the various water quality elements of the CWA that apply to the Local Coastal Program.

Water Quality Criteria and Standards The EPA is the federal agency with primary authority for implementing regulations adopted under the CWA. The EPA has delegated to the State of California the authority to implement and oversee most of the programs authorized or adopted for CWA compliance through the state’s Porter-Cologne Act, described below.

Under federal law, the EPA has published water quality regulations under Volume 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations. Section 303 of the CWA requires states to adopt water quality standards for all surface waters of the United States. As defined by the CWA, water quality standards consist of the designated beneficial uses of the water body in question and criteria that protect the designated uses. Section 304(a) requires the EPA to publish advisory water quality criteria that accurately reflect the latest scientific knowledge on the kind and extent of all effects on health and welfare that may be expected from the presence of pollutants in water. Where multiple uses exist, water quality standards must protect the most sensitive use.

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit Program The CWA established the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit program to regulate municipal and industrial discharges to surface waters of the United States. A discharge from any point source is unlawful unless the discharge is in compliance with an NPDES permit. Federal NPDES permit regulations have been established for broad categories of point source discharges including industrial wastewater, municipal wastewater, and point sources of stormwater runoff, including municipal separate storm sewer systems and industrial stormwater, which includes construction sites. NPDES permits generally establish effluent and receiving water limits on allowable concentrations and/or mass emissions of pollutants contained in the discharge, prohibitions on discharges not specifically allowed under the permit, and


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provisions that describe required actions by the discharger, including industrial pretreatment, pollution prevention, self-monitoring, and other activities.

In 1990, the EPA published regulations establishing NPDES permit requirements for municipal and industrial stormwater discharges. Phase 1 of the permitting program applied to municipal discharges of stormwater in urban areas where the population exceeded 100,000. Although Hermosa Beach’s population falls far below this threshold, the planning area is regulated because stormwater is managed as part of a large interconnected flood control system operated by the Los Angeles County Flood Control District. Construction sites in the planning area that disturb 1 acre or more must obtain coverage under the statewide NPDES Construction General Permit. Currently, no industrial facilities in the planning area are subject to the statewide NPDES Industrial General Permit.

Section 401 Water Quality Certification or Waiver Under CWA Section 401, an applicant for a Section 404 permit (to discharge dredged or fill material into waters of the United States) must first obtain a certificate from the appropriate state agency stating that the fill is consistent with the state’s water quality standards and criteria. In California, nine Regional Water Quality Control Boards (RWQCBs) have authority to grant water quality certification or to waive requirements.

Section 303(d) Impaired Waters List CWA Section 303(d) requires states to develop lists of water bodies that would not attain water quality objectives after implementation of required levels of treatment by point-source dischargers (municipalities and industries). Section 303(d) requires that the state develop a total maximum daily load (TMDL) for each listed pollutant. The TMDL is the amount of loading that the water body can receive and still be in compliance with water quality objectives. The TMDL can also act as a plan to reduce loading of a specific pollutant from various sources to achieve compliance with water quality objectives. The state-prepared TMDL must include an allocation of allowable loadings to point and nonpoint sources, with consideration of background loadings (sources of naturally occurring pollutants) and a margin of safety. The TMDL must also include an analysis that shows links between loading reductions and the attainment of water quality objectives. The EPA must either approve a TMDL prepared by the state or, if it disapproves the state’s TMDL, issue its own. NPDES permit limits for listed pollutants must be consistent with the waste load allocation prescribed in the TMDL. After implementation of a TMDL, it is


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intended that the problems that led to placement of a given pollutant on the Section 303(d) list would be remediated.

National Toxics Rule and California Toxics Rule In 1992, the EPA issued the National Toxics Rule under the Clean Water Act to establish numeric criteria for California priority toxic pollutants. The National Toxics Rule established water quality standards for 42 pollutants not covered under California’s statewide water quality regulations at that time. As a result of the court-ordered revocation of California’s statewide water quality control plans (basin plans) in 1994, the EPA initiated efforts to issue additional federal water quality standards for California. In 2000, the EPA issued the California Toxics Rule, which includes all the priority pollutants for which the EPA has issued numeric criteria not included in the National Toxics Rule.

State Water Resources Control Board In California, the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) has broad authority over water quality for the state. The SWRCB develops statewide water quality policy and exercises the powers delegated to the state by the federal government under the CWA. Other state agencies with jurisdiction over water quality regulation in California include the Department of Public Health (for drinking water regulations), the California Department of Pesticide Regulation, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment.

Regional authority for planning, permitting, and enforcement is delegated to the nine RWQCBs. The regional boards are required to formulate and adopt basin plans for all areas in the region and establish water quality objectives in the plans. California water quality objectives (or “criteria” under the CWA) are found in the basin plans adopted by the SWRCB and each of the nine RWQCBs. The Los Angeles RWQCB is responsible for the planning area and surrounding region.

In 2006, the SWRCB adopted Order Number 2006-003 establishing general waste discharge requirements for all publicly owned or operated sanitary sewer systems in California. The waste discharge requirements require owners and operators of sewer collection systems to report sanitary sewer overflows using the California Integrated Water Quality System and to develop and implement a sewer system management plan. The Hermosa Beach Sewer System Master Plan, adopted in 2009 and updated in 2011, details sewer collection system operations, maintenance, repair, and funding.


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Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act The Porter-Cologne Act is California’s statutory authority for the protection of water quality. Under the act, the state must adopt water quality policies, plans, and objectives that protect the state’s waters for the use and enjoyment of the people. The act sets forth the obligations of the SWRCB and RWQCBs to adopt and periodically update basin plans. The act also requires waste dischargers to notify the RWQCBs of their activities through the filing of reports of waste discharge and authorizes the SWRCB and RWQCBs to issue and enforce waste discharge requirements (WDR), NPDES permits, Section 401 water quality certifications, or other approvals.

Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board Basin Plan The planning area is within the jurisdiction of the Los Angeles RWQCB, which is responsible for the preparation and implementation of the water quality control plan for the Los Angeles region (Los Angeles RWQCB 1995). The basin plan defines beneficial uses, water quality objectives, implementation programs, and surveillance and monitoring programs for waters of the coastal drainages in the Los Angeles region between Rincon Point on the coast of western Ventura County and the eastern Los Angeles County line. The basin plan contains specific numeric water quality objectives that apply to certain water bodies or portions of water bodies. Objectives have been established for bacteria, dissolved oxygen, pH, pesticides, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, temperature, turbidity, and trace elements. Numerous narrative water quality objectives have also been established.

California Ocean Plan Section 13170.2 of the California Water Code directs the SWRCB to formulate and adopt a water quality control plan for ocean waters of California. The SWRCB first adopted this plan, known as the California Ocean Plan, in 1972. The California Water Code also requires a review of the California Ocean Plan at least every three years to guarantee that current standards are adequate and are not allowing degradation to indigenous marine species or posing a threat to human health. The current iteration of the California Ocean Plan (SWRCB 2012) establishes water quality objectives for California’s ocean waters and provides the basis for regulation of wastes discharged into the state’s coastal waters.

California State Nondegradation Policy In 1968, the SWRCB adopted a nondegradation policy aimed at maintaining high quality for waters in California. The nondegradation policy states that the disposal of wastes into state waters shall be regulated to achieve the highest water quality consistent with


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maximum benefit to the people of the state and to promote the peace, health, safety, and welfare of the people of the state. The policy provides as follows:

• Where the existing quality of water is better than required under existing water quality control plans, such quality would be maintained until it has been demonstrated that any change would be consistent with maximum benefit to the people of the state and would not unreasonably affect present and anticipated beneficial uses of such water.

• Any activity which produces waste or increases the volume or concentration of waste and which discharges to existing high-quality waters would be required to meet waste discharge requirements, which would ensure (1) pollution or nuisance would not occur, and (2) the highest water quality consistent with the maximum benefit to the people of the state would be maintained.

NPDES Permit System and Waste Discharge Requirements for Construction The SWRCB and the Los Angeles RWQCB have adopted specific NPDES permits for a variety of activities that have potential to discharge wastes to waters of the State. The SWRCB General Permit for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Construction and Land Disturbance Activities (Order 2009-0009-Division of Water Quality [DWQ]) applies to all land-disturbing construction activities that would affect 1 acre or more.

The Los Angeles RWQCB has issued a general NPDES permit and general waste discharge requirements governing construction-related dewatering discharges within the Los Angeles RWQCB’s jurisdictional area (Los Angeles RWQCB Order No. R4-2003-0111; NPDES No. CAG994004). This permit, known as the General Dewatering Permit, addresses discharges from temporary dewatering operations associated with construction and permanent dewatering operations associated with development. The discharge requirements include provisions mandating notification, sampling and analysis, and reporting of dewatering and testing-related discharges. The NPDES permits all involve similar processes, including submittal of notices of intent to discharge to the Los Angeles RWQCB and implementation of best management practices (BMPs) to minimize those discharges. The Los Angeles RWQCB may also issue site-specific WDRs, or waivers to WDRs, for certain waste discharges to land or waters of the State.

Construction activities that are subject to the general construction activity permit include clearing, grading, stockpiling, and excavation. Dischargers are required to eliminate or reduce non-stormwater discharges to storm sewer systems and other waters. The permit also requires dischargers to install post-construction permanent BMPs that would remain


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in service to protect water quality throughout the life of the project consistent with the planning and land development requirements of the MS4 permit. Types of BMPs include source controls, treatment controls, and site planning measures.

Activities subject to the NPDES general permit for construction activity must develop and implement a stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWPPP). The SWPPP includes a site map and description of construction activities and identifies the BMPs that will be employed to prevent soil erosion and discharge of other construction-related pollutants, such as petroleum products, solvents, paints, and cement, that could contaminate nearby water resources. A monitoring program is generally required to ensure that BMPs are implemented according to the SWPPP and are effective at controlling discharges of pollutants that are related to stormwater.

Municipal Stormwater Permit Program The SWRCB Municipal Storm Water Permitting Program regulates stormwater discharges from MS4s. MS4 permits are issued in two phases. Under Phase I, which started in 1990, the RWQCBs adopted NPDES stormwater permits for large and medium municipalities (large MS4 systems serve populations of 250,000 or more people). Most of these permits are issued to a group of co-permittees encompassing an entire metropolitan area such as the Los Angeles County area. The current MS4 permit requires the discharger to develop and implement a stormwater management plan/program with the goal of reducing the discharge of pollutants in stormwater to the maximum extent practicable (MEP). The MEP is the performance standard specified in CWA Section 402(p). The management programs specify what BMPs will be used to address certain program areas. The program areas include public education and outreach, illicit discharge detection and elimination, construction and post-construction, and good housekeeping for municipal operations.

In 2001, the Los Angeles RWQCB issued an MS4 permit (No. CAS004001, Order No. 01-182, as amended in 2012 by Order R4-2012-0175) to Los Angeles County, the Los Angeles County Flood Control District, and 84 co-permittee cities in the Los Angeles region, including the City of Hermosa Beach. Each co-permittee is required to comply only with the permit requirements applicable to discharges within its boundaries. Within its geographic jurisdiction, each co-permittee is required to:

• Prohibit non-stormwater discharges through the MS4 to receiving waters, excepting certain conditions.


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• Comply with the requirements of the stormwater quality management program (summarizes the program components the co-permittees will implement to comply with the MS4 permit and to reduce the discharges of pollutants in stormwater to the MEP), as described in Part VI.C of the MS4 permit.

• Comply with water quality–based effluent limitations consistent with the assumptions and requirements of all available TMDL waste load allocations assigned to discharges from the permittees’ MS4s.

• Coordinate among its internal departments and agencies, as appropriate, to facilitate implementation of the requirements of the stormwater quality management program.

• Participate in intra-agency coordination (e.g., fire department, building and safety, code enforcement, public health) necessary to successfully implement the provisions of the permit and the stormwater quality management program.

• Prepare an annual budget summary of expenditures applied to the stormwater quality management program.

• Implement a Planning and Land Development Program pursuant to Part VI.D.7.b for all new development and redevelopment projects. The program is intended to: o Lessen the water quality impacts of development by using smart growth practices. o Minimize the adverse impacts from stormwater runoff on the biological integrity of

natural drainage systems and the beneficial uses of water bodies in accordance with requirements under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (California Public Resources Code Section 21000 et seq.).

o Minimize the percentage of impervious surfaces on land. o Maintain existing riparian buffers and enhance riparian buffers when possible. o Minimize pollutant loadings from impervious surfaces. o Control post-construction stormwater through properly selected, designed, and

maintained low-impact development (LID) and hydromodification control BMPs. o Prioritize the selection of BMPs to remove stormwater pollutants, reduce

stormwater runoff volume, and beneficially use stormwater to support an integrated approach to protecting water quality and managing water resources in the following order of preference: On-site infiltration, bioretention, and/or rainfall harvest and use. On-site biofiltration, off-site groundwater replenishment, and/or off-site retrofit.


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Local Plans, Policies, Regulations, and Laws

Standard Urban Stormwater Mitigation Plan The Standard Urban Stormwater Mitigation Plan (SUSMP) was developed as required in Part D.2 of the Los Angeles County MS4 permit to address stormwater pollution from new construction and redevelopment. The final SUSMP approved by the Los Angeles RWQCB in 2000 was updated in February 2002 and incorporated into Chapter 8.44 of the Hermosa Beach Municipal Code. The current regulations, when amended, will be superseded by the planning and land development provisions in the Los Angeles County MS4 permit, which requires the City of Hermosa Beach to adopt a low impact development ordinance and green street policy.

Hermosa Beach Sewer System Management Plan The Sewer System Management Plan, adopted in 2009, and amended in 2011 by the Sanitary Sewer Master Plan (SSMP) Update, which provides an overview of existing conditions and recommends a rehabilitation program for Hermosa Beach’s sanitary sewer infrastructure. The SSMP estimates that the entire sanitary sewer system has a present (2011) replacement value of $40 million. The SSMP recommends that the City invest $7.5 million (present value), plus 20 percent (equal to $1.5 million) for design and administration to rehabilitate approximately 95,000 lineal feet of sanitary sewer pipes through 2021 (City of Hermosa Beach 2011). The City is currently identifying financing options, including a proposed sewer service charge, to implement the rehabilitation efforts identified in the SSMP.

City of Hermosa Beach Coastal Land Use Plan (1981) The City’s current Coastal Land Use Plan does not address water quality. The concluding section of this analysis (Water Quality Discussion Point) identifies how the updated LCP could address water quality.

City of Hermosa Beach Municipal Code – Chapter 8.44, Stormwater and Urban Runoff Pollution Control Regulations Chapter 8.44 of the Hermosa Beach Municipal Code seeks to ensure the future health, safety, and general welfare of the citizens of the city and the water quality of the receiving waters of Los Angeles County and surrounding coastal areas by:

• Reducing pollutants in stormwater discharges to the maximum extent practicable. • Regulating illicit connections and illicit discharges and thereby reducing the level of

contamination of stormwater and urban runoff into the MS4.


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• Regulating non-stormwater discharges to the MS4. • Protecting and enhancing the quality of watercourses, water bodies, and wetlands in

the city in a manner consistent with the federal Clean Water Act, the California Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act, and the Municipal NPDES Permit.

Chapter 8.44 specifically prohibits illicit connections to the municipal stormwater system, littering, and the discharge of certain kinds of untreated runoff into the stormwater system. The chapter also requires that owners and occupants of property in the city implement BMPs to prevent or reduce the discharge of pollutants to the municipal stormwater system to the maximum extent practicable. Additionally, Chapter 8.44 provides runoff requirements for industrial/commercial and construction activities and standard urban stormwater mitigation plan requirements for new development and redevelopment.

As indicated above, the current regulations will be replaced by the planning and land development provisions in the Los Angeles County MS4 permit, which requires the City to adopt a low impact development (LID) ordinance and green street policy. On April 28, 2015, the City adopted an ordinance and amended the Hermosa Beach Municipal Code related to LID and stormwater management and pollution control. At the April 28, 2015 City Council meeting, the City also adopted a green street policy and associated best management practices in compliance with LA County’s MS4 permit.

EXISTING WATER QUALITY CONDITIONS

Surface Water There are no surface water resources in the planning area. However, the city’s beach and Santa Monica Bay are designated as “water quality-limited” for impairments under federal Clean Water Act Section 303(d), indicating that these water bodies are not reasonably expected to attain or maintain water quality standards due to impairments without additional regulation. Impairment is measured by the total maximum daily load (TMDL), the maximum amount of a pollutant that a body of water can receive while still meeting water quality standards. Table 1 identifies the listing category, pollutant, and pollutant type for Hermosa Beach and Santa Monica Bay.


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Table 1: Impaired Water Bodies in the Planning Area

Water Body Name

Water Body Type

Listing Category

Pollutant Pollutant Category

Hermosa Beach Coastal & Bay Shoreline

4A Indicator Bacteria Pathogens

Santa Monica Bay Offshore/ Nearshore

Bay & Harbor 4A DDT (tissue & sediment) Pesticides

Debris Trash

Fish Consumption Advisory

Misc.

Sediment Toxicity Toxicity

Source: Los Angeles RWQCB 2010; updated to reflect that Santa Monica Bay pollutants are now 4A listed.

Note: Category 4A means the item on the 303(d) list is being addressed by an EPA-approved TMDL.

The Los Angeles RWQCB and the EPA have developed two total maximum daily loads for Hermosa Beach: the Santa Monica Bay Bacteria Dry-Weather TMDL and the Santa Monica Bay Bacteria Wet-Weather Bacteria TMDL (Los Angeles RWQCB 2002a, 2002b). Two additional TMDLs were approved by the Los Angeles RWQCB and the EPA after the 303(d) list update.

The Santa Monica Bay Bacteria Dry-Weather TMDL (Resolution No. 02-004: Proposed Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan – Los Angeles Region) notes that elevated bacterial indicator densities were causing impairment of water contact recreation beneficial uses at many Santa Monica Bay beaches. Dry weather bacteriological objectives identified in the Los Angeles Region Basin Plan include limits for total coliform density, fecal coliform density, and enterococcus density. The Santa Monica Bay Bacteria Dry-Weather TMDL sets the number of days that can be in exceedance of the limits identified in the basin plan. Table 2 reports the number of exceedance days for summer dry weather and winter dry weather (Los Angeles RWQCB 2002a).


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Table 2: Dry-Weather Bacteria Exceedance TMDL

Location Sub-watershed

Summer (4/1–10/31) Winter (11/1–3/31)

Daily Sampling (no. days)

Weekly Sampling (no. days)

Daily Sampling (no. days)

Weekly Sampling (no. days)

26th Street Extended Hermosa 0 0 0 0

Herondo Street Extended

Hermosa 0 0 3 1

Source: Los Angeles RWQCB 2002a

The Los Angeles RWQCB also established TMDLs for the number of days exceeding bacteria counts during wet weather. The Santa Monica Bay Bacteria Wet-Weather TMDL (Resolution No. 2002-022: Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan – Los Angeles Region) sets the number of days that can be in exceedance of the bacteriological limits identified in the basin plan. Table 3 reports the number of wet-weather exceedance days in a critical year and the final allowable number of wet-weather exceedance days based on daily sampling for Hermosa Beach monitoring locations (Los Angeles RWQCB 2002b).

Table 3: Wet-Weather Bacteria Exceedance TMDL

Location

Estimated Number of Wet Weather

Exceedance Days

Final Allowable Number of Wet

Weather Exceedance Days

Hermosa City Beach at 26th Street 12 12

Hermosa Beach Pier – 50 Yards South 8 8

Herondo Street Stormwater Drain (in front of drain)

19 17

Source: Los Angeles RWQCB 2002b Note: The compliance targets are based on shoreline monitoring data available at the time the resolution was adopted and assumes daily sampling. If systematic weekly sampling is conducted, the compliance targets will be scaled accordingly.


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As a co-permittee to the Los Angeles MS4 NPDES permit (see below), Hermosa Beach is responsible for meeting water quality–based effluent limitations that allow Santa Monica Bay to meet TMDL targets identified in Santa Monica Bay Total Daily Maximum Loads for DDTs and PCBs and Santa Monica Bay Nearshore and Offshore Debris TMDLs.

Stormwater Runoff Stormwater runoff into Santa Monica Bay is regulated primarily through four NPDES permits:

• The municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) NPDES permit issued to the 84 municipalities in the urbanized area of Los Angeles County, except the City of Long Beach, which has its own MS4 NPDES permit

• A separate statewide stormwater permit specifically for the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans)

• The statewide Construction Activities Stormwater General Permit • The statewide Industrial Activities Stormwater General Permit

The NPDES permit program defines these discharges as point sources because the stormwater discharges from the end of a stormwater conveyance system. Since the industrial and construction stormwater discharges are enrolled under NPDES permits, these discharges are treated as point sources. The Los Angeles MS4 permit was first issued in 1990 and includes 85 co-permittees including Los Angeles County and the City of Hermosa Beach. The latest revision to the permit (Order No. R4-2012-0175) was issued on November 8, 2012.

Groundwater Water service in the planning area is provided by the California Water Service Company, Hermosa-Redondo District (Cal Water) using groundwater, imported surface water, and recycled supplies. Groundwater extracted from the Silverado aquifer satisfies 10 to 15 percent of the district’s water demand (Cal Water 2011). The Silverado aquifer is confined, underlies most of the basin, and is the most productive aquifer in the basin. It ranges from 100 to 500 feet thick and yields 80 to 90 percent of the groundwater extracted annually from the basin. In the Silverado zone, the character of water varies considerably. In the coastal region, the water is calcium chloride in character, transitioning into sodium bicarbonate moving inland. Data from 45 public supply wells shows an average total dissolved solids (TDS) content of 720 milligrams per liter (mg/L) and a range of 170 to 5,510 mg/L (DWR 2004).


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Seawater intrusion occurs in the Silverado zone along Santa Monica Bay. Two seawater barrier projects are currently in operation. The West Coast Basin Barrier Project runs from the Los Angeles International Airport to the Palos Verde Hills, and the Dominguez Gap Barrier Project covers the area of the West Coast Basin bordering San Pedro Bay. Injection wells along these barriers create a groundwater ridge, which inhibits the inland flow of salt water into the subbasin to protect and maintain groundwater elevations (DWR 2004).

WATER QUALITY KEY ISSUES

Impaired Water Bodies

The city’s beach and Santa Monica Bay are designated as “water quality-limited” for impairments under federal Clean Water Act Section 303(d), indicating that these water bodies are not reasonably expected to attain or maintain water quality standards due to impairments without additional regulation.

Stormwater Infrastructure

The Sanitary Sewer Master Plan recommends that the City invest $7.5 million (present value), plus 20 percent (equal to $1.5 million) for design and administration to rehabilitate approximately 95,000 lineal feet of sanitary sewer pipes through year 2021 (City of Hermosa Beach 2011). The ability to achieve these upgrades is important to the LCP process because most stormwater drains to the coastal zone.

Existing Regulatory Framework

In complying with the extensive and comprehensive existing water quality regulatory framework, the City is working to improve water quality citywide, including in the coastal zone. As mentioned above, the City is subject to four NPDES permits, including the MS4 permit, and is considering adoption of a LID ordinance and green streets policy required by the permit.

WATER QUALITY DISCUSSION POINT

The following discussion point is recommended for consideration during the Coastal Land Use Plan update process to ensure Hermosa Beach maintains and improves water quality in the coastal zone, consistent with Section 30231 of the Coastal Act.


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Following discussion with City and Coastal Commission staff, the discussion point will

form a basis for a policy that will ultimately be part of the Coastal Land Use Plan/General

Plan.

1. Continue to comply with and implement existing water quality regulations in the

coastal zone, including MS4 and NPDES permit requirements.

Rationale: The City is subject to four NPDES permits, including the MS4 permit that

requires the City to:

• Prohibit non-stormwater discharges through the MS4 to receiving waters,

excepting certain conditions.

• Comply with the requirements of the stormwater quality management program

(summarizes the program components the co-permittees will implement to comply

with the MS4 permit and to reduce the discharges of pollutants in stormwater to

the MEP), as described in Part VI.C of the MS4 permit.

• Comply with water quality–based effluent limitations consistent with the

assumptions and requirements of all available TMDL waste load allocations

assigned to discharges from the permittees’ MS4s.

• Coordinate among its internal departments and agencies, as appropriate, to

facilitate implementation of the requirements of the stormwater quality

management program.

• Participate in intra-agency coordination (e.g., fire department, building and safety,

code enforcement, public health) necessary to successfully implement the

provisions of the permit and the stormwater quality management program.

• Prepare an annual budget summary of expenditures applied to the stormwater

quality management program.

• Implement a Planning and Land Development Program pursuant to Part VI.D.7.b

for all new development and redevelopment projects. The program is intended to:

o Lessen the water quality impacts of development by using smart growth

practices.

o Minimize the adverse impacts from stormwater runoff on the biological integrity

of natural drainage systems and the beneficial uses of water bodies in


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accordance with requirements under the California Environmental Quality Act

(CEQA) (California Public Resources Code Section 21000 et seq.).

o Minimize the percentage of impervious surfaces on land.

o Maintain existing riparian buffers and enhance riparian buffers when possible.

o Minimize pollutant loadings from impervious surfaces.

o Control post-construction stormwater through properly selected, designed, and

maintained low-impact development (LID) and hydromodification control

BMPs.

o Prioritize the selection of BMPs to remove stormwater pollutants, reduce

stormwater runoff volume, and beneficially use stormwater to support an

integrated approach to protecting water quality and managing water resources

in the following order of preference:

On-site infiltration, bioretention, and/or rainfall harvest and use.

On-site biofiltration, off-site groundwater replenishment, and/or off-site

retrofit.

These requirements are consistent with the water quality requirements of the Coastal

Act and are most effectively and efficiently complied with citywide. The Local Coastal

Program should reference these requirements and ensure consistency with them, but

no additional actions are required.


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REFERENCES

City of Hermosa Beach. 2011. City of Hermosa Beach Sanitary Sewer Master Plan. Accessed August 4, 2014. http://www.hermosabch.org/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=1765 .

DWR (California Department of Water Resources). 2004. “Coastal Plain of Los Angeles County Groundwater Basin West Coast Subbasin.” California’s Groundwater Bulletin 118. Accessed January 2014. http://www.water.ca.gov/pubs/groundwater/bulletin_118/basindescriptions/4-11.03.pdf.

Los Angeles RWQCB (California Water Quality Control Board, Los Angeles Region). 1995. Water Quality Control Plan Los Angeles Region. Accessed February 2014. http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/rwqcb4/water_issues/programs/basin_plan/electronics_documents/bp1_introduction.pdf.

———. 2002a. Attachment A to Resolution No. 02-004: Proposed Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan – Los Angeles Region to Incorporate the Santa Monica Bay Beaches Bacteria TMDL. Accessed February 2014. http://63.199.216.6/larwqcb_new/bpa/docs/2002-004/2002-004_RB_BPA.pdf .

———. 2002b. Attachment A to Resolution No. 2002-022: Amendment to the Water Quality Control Plan – Los Angeles Region to Incorporate Implementation Provisions for the Region’s Bacteria Objectives and to Incorporate the Santa Monica Bay Beaches Wet-Weather Bacteria TMDL. Accessed February 2014. http://63.199.216.6/larwqcb_new/bpa/docs/2002-022/2002-022_RB_BPA.pdf .

———. 2010. Santa Monica Bay Nearshore and Offshore Debris TMDL. Accessed February 2014. http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/losangeles/board_decisions/basin_plan_amendments/technical_documents/72_New/SMB%20Debris%20Staff%20Report%20102510.pdf .

———. 2012. Santa Monica Bay Total Maximum Daily Loads for DDTs and PCBs. Accessed February 2014. http://www.epa.gov/region9/water/tmdl/santamonica/FinalSantaMonicaBayDDTPCBsTMDL.pdf.


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SWRCB (State Water Resources Control Board). 2012. California Ocean Plan. Accessed July 2014. http://www.swrcb.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/ ocean/docs/cop2012.pdf.

Hermosa beach lcp issue papers

Documents

Transcript of Hermosa beach lcp issue papers