Kerman 2040 General Plan - Hearing Draft - April...
Transcript of Kerman 2040 General Plan - Hearing Draft - April...
Policy Document Hearing Draft
April 2020
Prepared for:
City of Kerman 850 S. Madera Avenue
Kerman, Ca 93630
Hearing Draft Errata
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document
The Public Review Draft of the Kerman 2040 General Plan (Policy Document) was published in November 2019 for
public review. The Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) was also released for a 45‐day public review period that
started November 21, 2019 and ended on January 6, 2020.
As part of this public review period, comments were received on both the General Plan and the draft EIR. Comments
on the draft EIR are incorporated into the final EIR and a response to each comment was provided (the final EIR is
available at www.kermangp.com).
For this General Plan document, all changes made since the November 2019 Public Draft General Plan are shown in a
redline/strikethrough format. Using this format, new additions are shown in blue text that is underlined (new text
example). Deleted text is shown in red text with a strikethrough the text (deleted text example). Using this method,
it is clear to readers to understand the changes that are proposed.
This document, along with the final EIR, will be reviewed at public hearings with the Planning Commission and City
Council.
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Acknowledgements
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page i
City of Kerman City Council
Mayor Rhonda Armstrong
Mayor Pro Tem Gary Yep , District 1
Ismael Herrera, District 3
Raj Dhaliwal, District 4
Espi Sandoval, District 4
City of Kerman Planning Commission
Kevin Nehring, Chair
Charles Jones, Vice Chair
Robert Bandy
Scott Bishop
Leopoldo Espino
Bob Felker
Mario Nunez
Public Input
The City of Kerman would like to thank the members of
the public who gave their time and energies in assisting
in the development of the General Plan by participating
in the community workshops and corresponding with
members of the City Council and Planning Commission.
City Staff
Olivia Pimentel, Assistant Planner
John Kunkel, Interim City Manager
Ken Moore, Public Works Director
Phillip Gallegos, Community Services Director
Joseph Blohm, Chief of Police
John Golden, Lieutenant
Marci Reyes, City Clerk
Carolina Camacho, Finance Director
Consultant Team
Mintier Harnish (Lead Consultant) Rick Rust, AICP, Project Manager
Renée Funston, Planner
Rincon Consultants, Inc. (Environmental) Eric VonBerg, Environmental Task Manager
Della Acosta, Environmental Planner
Applied Development Economics (Economics) Doug Svensson, AICP, Economics Task
Manager
Peter Cheng, Senior Economist
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Table of Contents
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Acknowledgements .................................................................................................................. i
Table of Contents ....................................................................................................................iii
1. Introduction .............................................................................................................. 1-1 1.1 Purpose of the General Plan ...................................................................................................... 1‐2
1.2 Using the General Plan .............................................................................................................. 1‐2
1.3 General Plan Organization ......................................................................................................... 1‐5
1.4 Readers’ Guide ........................................................................................................................... 1‐7
1.5 Community Engagement ......................................................................................................... 1‐10
2. Economic Development ........................................................................................... 2-1 2.1 Commercial Business Retention and Growth ............................................................................ 2‐2
2.2 Agricultural Economy ................................................................................................................. 2‐3
2.3 Economic Diversification and Expansion ................................................................................... 2‐4
2.4 Implementation Programs ......................................................................................................... 2‐5
3. Land Use .................................................................................................................... 3-1 3.1 General Plan Buildout ................................................................................................................ 3‐2
3.2 Land Use Designations ............................................................................................................... 3‐3
3.3 Community Character and Design ........................................................................................... 3‐16
3.4 Growth Management .............................................................................................................. 3‐18
3.5 Agricultural Land ...................................................................................................................... 3‐20
3.6 Environmental Justice .............................................................................................................. 3‐21
3.7 Civic Engagement ..................................................................................................................... 3‐23
3.8 General Plan Consistency and Maintenance ........................................................................... 3‐24
3.9 Education and Lifelong Learning .............................................................................................. 3‐25
3.10 Implementation Programs ....................................................................................................... 3‐26
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4. Circulation ................................................................................................................. 4-1 4.1 Streets and Roadways ................................................................................................................ 4‐2
4.2 Vehicular Flow ........................................................................................................................... 4‐5
4.3 Goods Movement ...................................................................................................................... 4‐7
4.4 Parking ....................................................................................................................................... 4‐9
4.5 Alternative Transportation ...................................................................................................... 4‐10
4.6 Implementation Programs ....................................................................................................... 4‐12
5. Housing ..................................................................................................................... 5-1 5.1 New Housing Development ....................................................................................................... 5‐2
5.2 Affordable Housing .................................................................................................................... 5‐3
5.3 Housing and Neighborhood Conservation ................................................................................. 5‐4
5.4 Special Needs Housing ............................................................................................................... 5‐5
5.5 Fair and Equal Housing Opportunities ....................................................................................... 5‐6
5.7 Energy Conservation and Sustainable Development ................................................................. 5‐7
5.8 Implementation Programs ......................................................................................................... 5‐8
6. Conservation, Open Space, Parks and Recreation ................................................. 6-1 6.1 Open Space ................................................................................................................................ 6‐3
6.2 Parks and Recreation ................................................................................................................. 6‐4
6.3 Cultural Resources ..................................................................................................................... 6‐6
6.4 Water Conservation ................................................................................................................... 6‐7
6.5 Energy Resource Conservation .................................................................................................. 6‐8
6.6 Implementation Programs ......................................................................................................... 6‐9
7. Public Health and Safety .......................................................................................... 7-1 7.1 Law Enforcement ....................................................................................................................... 7‐2
7.2 Fire Protection ........................................................................................................................... 7‐3
7.3 Emergency Services ................................................................................................................... 7‐4
7.4 Natural Disasters ........................................................................................................................ 7‐5
7.5 Building Safety ........................................................................................................................... 7‐6
7.6 Hazardous Materials .................................................................................................................. 7‐7
7.7 Air Quality .................................................................................................................................. 7‐8
7.8 Noise 7‐10
7.9 Implementation Programs ....................................................................................................... 7‐13
7.10 Requirements for an Acoustical Analysis ................................................................................. 7‐15
8. Public Facilities and Services ................................................................................... 8-1 8.1 Essential Public Facilities and Services ....................................................................................... 8‐2
8.2 Water 8‐3
8.3 Infrastructure Funding ............................................................................................................... 8‐4
8.4 Sustainable Municipality ............................................................................................................ 8‐5
8.5 Implementation Programs ......................................................................................................... 8‐6
9. Glossary ..................................................................................................................... 9-1
Table of Contents
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A. Appendix A, Environmental Justice ........................................................................ A-1
B. Appendix B, Project Requirements ......................................................................... B-1
Figures Figure 1‐1 Significant Boundaries ..................................................................................................... 1‐4
Figure 1‐2 How to Read Goals and Policies ...................................................................................... 1‐7
Figure 1‐3 How to Read Implementation Programs ......................................................................... 1‐9
Figure 3‐1 Land Use Diagram ............................................................................................................ 3‐4
Figure 3‐2 Significant Boundaries ................................................................................................... 3‐19
Figure 4‐1 Diagram ........................................................................................................................... 4‐3
Figure 4‐2 Proposed SR 145 Alignments ........................................................................................... 4‐8
Figure 4‐3 Active Transportation Facilities ..................................................................................... 4‐11
Figure 7‐1 Projected 2040 Noise Contours (Roadway and Railroad) ............................................. 7‐11
Tables Table 1‐1 Elements of the Kerman 2040 General Plan ................................................................... 1‐5
Table 3‐1 Kerman 2040 General Plan Development Projections .................................................... 3‐3
Table 3‐2 Land Use Designations ..................................................................................................... 3‐5
Table 4‐1 Level of Service ................................................................................................................ 4‐5
Table 7‐1 Maximum Allowable Noise Exposure – Stationary Sources .......................................... 7‐12
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Introduction
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 1‐1
1The Kerman 2040 General Plan is a long‐range plan that guides decision‐making and establishes rules and standards
for new development and city improvements. It reflects the city’s vision for the future and is intended to provide
direction through the year 2040.
This chapter is organized into the following sections.
Section Title Page
1.1 Purpose of the General Plan ...................................................................................................... 1‐2
1.2 Using the General Plan .............................................................................................................. 1‐2
1.3 General Plan Organization ......................................................................................................... 1‐5
1.4 Readers’ Guide ........................................................................................................................... 1‐7
1.5 Community Engagement ......................................................................................................... 1‐10
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1.1 Purpose of the General Plan
California State Law requires that every city prepare and maintain a general plan “for the physical development of the city and any land outside its boundaries that bears relation to its planning.” A general plan serves as the jurisdiction’s “constitution” or “blueprint” for future decisions concerning a variety of issues including land use, health and safety, and resource conservation. All specific plans, subdivisions, public works projects, and zoning decisions must be consistent with the local jurisdiction’s general plan. The Kerman General Plan contains the goals and policies upon which the City Council and Planning Commission base their decisions. Typically, a general plan is designed to address the issues facing the city for the next 15‐20 years. The horizon year for Kerman’s General Plan Update is 2040.
A general plan has four defining features:
General. As the name implies, a general plan provides general guidance for future land use, transportation,
environmental, and resource decisions.
Comprehensive. A general plan addresses a wide range of social, economic, infrastructure, and natural
resource topics. These topics include land use, urban development, housing, transportation, public facilities
and services, recreation, agriculture, biological resources, and many other issues that impact the community.
Long‐Range. A general plan provides guidance on achieving a long‐range vision of the future for a city or
county. To reach this envisioned future, the general plan includes goals, policies, and implementation
programs that address both near‐term and long‐term needs.
Integrated and Coherent. The goals, policies, and implementation programs in a general plan present a
comprehensive, unified program for development, resource conservation, and other issues that impact the
community. A general plan uses a consistent set of assumptions and projections to assess future demands for
housing, employment, and public services (e.g., infrastructure). A general plan has a coherent set of policies
and implementation programs that enables citizens to understand the vision of the general plan, and enables
landowners, businesses, and industries to be more certain about how policies will be implemented.
The general plan is not to be confused with zoning. Although both the general plan and the zoning ordinance
designate how land may be developed, they do so in different ways. The general plan has a long‐term outlook. It
identifies the types of development that will be allowed, the spatial relationships among land uses, and the general
pattern of future development. Zoning regulates development through specific standards such as lot size, building
setback, and allowable uses. However, the land uses shown on the general plan diagrams will typically be reflected in
the local zoning maps as well, as they are both required to be consistent per State law. Development must not only
meet the specific requirements of the zoning ordinance but also the broader policies set forth in the general plan.
1.2 Using the General Plan
The Kerman General Plan will be used by the City Council, Planning Commission, and City staff on a daily basis to
make decisions with direct or indirect land use implications. It will also provide a framework for inter‐jurisdictional
coordination of planning efforts among officials, City staff, and other government agencies (e.g., Federal, State, and
local). City residents, property owners, and businesses will also use the General Plan for guidance on City policies for
particular geographic areas or for particular subjects of interest to them.
The General Plan is the basis for a variety of regulatory measures and administrative procedures. California planning
law requires consistency between the general plan and its implementation programs, such as zoning and subdivision
ordinances, capital improvement programs, specific plans, environmental impact procedures, and building and
housing codes.
1. Introduction
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 1‐3
Over time the city's population will likely increase, its goals will evolve, and the physical environment in which its
residents live and work will change. In order for the General Plan to be a useful document, it must be monitored and
periodically revised to respond to and reflect changing conditions and needs over time.
To do this, the General Plan should be reviewed annually with a more comprehensive and thorough review and
revision conducted every five to 10 years to assess whether the plan needs to be refined to reflect changes in local
conditions, local priorities, and/or State law. State law permits the General Plan to be amended up to four times in
any calendar year, unless special conditions apply as defined by Government Code Sections 65358(c) and (d). Each
amendment may contain more than one change to the General Plan.
General Plan Key Terms
The following terms are used to describe the geographic boundaries used in the General Plan. These areas are
identified on Figure 1‐1.
City Limits. Includes the area within the city’s municipal boundary over which the City exercises land use
authority and provides public services.
Sphere of Influence (SOI).The city’s Sphere of Influence (SOI) is established by the Fresno Local Agency
Formation Commission (LAFCO) and is defined as a planning boundary outside of a city’s legal boundary
(i.e., city limits) that designates the city’s probable future boundary and service area. A SOI includes both
incorporated and unincorporated areas within which the City will have primary responsibility for the provision
of public facilities and services. In the General Plan, the City is proposing to expand the current SOI, as needed,
based on Policy LU‐3.2.
Planning Area. State law requires cities to adopt a general plan that addresses physical development within its
city limits, as well as any land outside its boundaries, “which in the planning agency’s judgment, bears relation
to its planning.” This larger area is referred to as the City’s “Planning Area.” The Planning Area for the Kerman
2040 General Plan encompasses the entire area within the City Limits, SOI (existing and proposed), and
additional areas extending out to major circulation routes framing the community. The purpose for the
Planning Area is to provide the opportunity to evaluate the effects of future growth and circulation changes in
the entire Planning Area and to develop further analysis of the values of the surrounding open space and
agricultural areas beyond the existing and planned urban area.
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1. Introduction
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 1‐5
1.3 General Plan Organization
The Kerman General Plan is made up of two documents: The Background Report and the Policy Document. The
Background Report is further divided into nine chapters so that information can be easily referenced by subject or
issue.
Background Report
The Background Report takes a “snapshot” of current (2018) conditions and trends in Kerman. It provides a detailed
description of a wide range of topics within the city, such as demographic and economic conditions, land use, public
facilities, and environmental resources. The report provides decision‐makers, the public, and local agencies with
context for making policy decisions. Unlike the Policy Document, the Background Report is objective and policy‐
neutral. The Background Report also serves as the “Environmental Setting” section of the Environmental Impact
Report (EIR) prepared for the General Plan. The City published the public review draft of the Background Report in
September 2019.
Policy Document
The Policy Document is the essence of the General Plan. It contains the goals and policies that will guide future
decisions within the city. It also identifies a set of implementation programs that will ensure the goals and policies in
the General Plan are carried out.
The Policy Document is organized into separate chapters which are the collection of “elements,” or topical areas, of
which nine are mandatory. The nine State‐mandated elements are: land use, circulation, housing, conservation, open
space, noise, safety, environmental justice, and air quality. Communities may include other elements that address
issues of particular local concern, such as economic development or urban design. Communities can also organize
their general plan anyway they choose, as long as the required topics are addressed. Table 1‐1 shows how the
elements of the Kerman 2040 General Plan are organized to meet the requirements of State law.
Table 1-1 Elements of the Kerman 2040 General Plan
State‐Mandated Elements
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Just
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Economic Development Land Use Circulation Housing Conservation, Open Space,
Parks and Recreation
Public Health and Safety Public Facilities and Services
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The Kerman 2040 General Plan Policy Document is organized into the following eight chapters. The following
provides a brief description of each chapter in the 2040 Kerman General Plan Policy Document. The acronym
following each element’s name represents the letters used to refer to the goals and policies under that element.
1. Introduction The Introduction chapter provides an overview of the General Plan and the process used to develop the 2040 General
Plan. This chapter also includes a Reader’s Guide (Section 1.4) that provides useful information on how to read and
use the goals, policies, and programs presented in each element.
2. Economic Development Element (ED) The Economic Development Element focuses on supporting traditional employment sectors, including agriculture,
manufacturing, construction, transportation, and warehousing, while ensuring the city is responsive to cost pressures,
shifting consumer demands, and competition.
3. Land Use Element (LU) The Land Use Element establishes the pattern and intensity of land use in the city and sets forth policies and
standards to guide future development. This Element serves as the primary vehicle for ensuring that new land uses
are logically organized and developed in a way that preserves Kerman’s small‐town, Central Valley charm as well as
surrounding agricultural and open space lands.
4. Circulation Element (CIRC) The Circulation Element focuses on providing a balanced, multimodal transportation network that meets the needs of
all users of streets, roads, and highways for safe and convenient travel.
5. Housing Element (HE) The Housing Element ensures that there is adequate land in place to accommodate Kerman’s fair share of new
residents. The City adopted the 2015‐2023 Housing Element in 2016 to identify and address housing needs in the city
in compliance with State housing law. The 2040 General Plan integrates the City’s current 2015‐2023 Housing Element
by formatting the document to be consistent with the 2040 General Plan update.
6. Conservation, Open Space, Parks and Recreation Element (COS) The Conservation, Open Space, Parks and Recreation Element focuses on conserving the city’s natural and open space
environment for present and future residents, as well as enhancing important attributes to Kerman that provide
recreation for residents and visitors.
7. Public Health and Safety Element (PH) The Public Health and Safety Element establishes a policy framework for protecting people and property from
unreasonable risks from natural disasters, crime, noise, and other events. It also focuses on disaster and emergency
response.
8. Public Facilities and Services Element (PFS) The Public Facilities and Services Element guides decision‐making concerning public and private infrastructure,
utilities, and services.
9. Glossary The Glossary contains definitions of key terms in the 2040 General Plan.
1. Introduction
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 1‐7
Appendix A Appendix A provides additional information on environmental justice and disadvantaged unincorporated
communities related to the Kerman General Plan. See Section 3.5 for goals and policies related to these topics.
Appendix BA Appendix BA describes project specific review requirements that can be applied, as appropriate to the project, to
reduce the adversity of potential environmental impacts. Please refer to Policy LU‐7.3 for applicability.
1.4 Readers’ Guide
Goals and Policies
Each element contains the goals and policies that the City will use to guide future land use, development, resource
management, and environmental protection decisions. Figure 1‐1 explains the standard format for goals and policies,
using a sample goal and policy.
Figure 1-2 How to Read Goals and Policies
Goal A goal is a statement that describes in general terms a desired future condition or “end” state. Goals describe ideal
future conditions for a topic and tend to be very general and broad.
Policy A policy is a clear and unambiguous statement that guides a specific course of action for decision‐makers to achieve a
desired goal.
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Policy / Program Icons The Kerman 2040 General Plan contains a number of policies and programs that address cross‐
cutting topics that weave throughout the General Plan. To highlight these policies and programs,
this Plan uses one or both of the icons shown to the left of this text. These icons highlight if a policy
or program is directly related to one or more of these topics, as applicable. The icons are described
below:
Environmental Justice
Pursuant Government Code Section 65302(h), general plans must include an environmental justice
element or include goals and policies in other element(s) of the general plan to reduce the unique
or compounded health risks in disadvantaged communities by reducing pollution exposure,
improving air quality, and promoting public facilities, food access, safe and sanitary homes, and
physical activity; promote civil engagement in the public decision‐making process; and prioritize
improvements and programs that address the needs of disadvantaged communities.
Healthy Communities
The 2040 General Plan focuses on promoting healthy communities and the connection between the
built environment and public health. Healthy communities focus on providing for a quality and
sustainable environment, supporting economic and social development, ensuring social equity, and
encouraging social relationships that are supportive and respectful to meet all residents’ basic
needs across a lifespan. To improve population health outcomes, the City needs to focus on
policies, systems, and programs that address the social and environmental determinants of health.
Environmental Impact Report Mitigation
To evaluate the environmental implications of the 2040 General Plan, the City prepared a Program
EIR pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). As part of this process, some
policies will be developed specifically to reduce the potential for significant environmental impacts.
These policies constitute mitigation measures and ensure that implementation of the 2040 General
Plan will include the reduction of associated environmental impacts in accordance with CEQA.
1. Introduction
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 1‐9
Implementation Programs
While many policies can be implemented as part of standard City operations, some policies require specific programs
to ensure their implementation. The last section of each element includes a table of implementation programs in a
format illustrated on Figure 1‐2. Similar to policies, implementation programs that address one or both of the cross‐
cutting topics include an icon to highlight the implementation program’s relationship to these topics, as applicable.
Figure 1-3 How to Read Implementation Programs
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1.5 Community Engagement
The 2040 General Plan was shaped through a public outreach approach that provided an opportunity for all
community members to be involved as an integral component in the General Plan process. The City gathered
community input through the following methods:
Community Workshop
Project Website – www.Kerman2040.com
eBlasts
Planning Commission and City Council Meetings, Study Sessions, and Public Hearings
Community Workshop
The City hosted a community workshop for residents and stakeholders to
share their ideas on how to shape the future of Kerman on April 23, 2019 at
the Community/Teen Center. A couple dozen community members
attended the workshop. Participants received an overview of the General
Plan Update and shared their ideas for Kerman's future.
Project Website – www.kermangp.com
To help expand the outreach efforts of the General Plan, this project
included a project website (www.kermangp.com) to provide information on the process including information on the
General Plan, meeting dates and locations, and related documents. The City used regular updates to the project
website throughout the update process to keep community members informed and involved.
eBlasts
Throughout the update process, the City sent timely eBlasts to the General Plan contact list, which included elected
and appointed officials, City Staff, stakeholders, and engaged community members. People could join the contact list
through a link on the project website, by signing‐in at a General Plan community workshop or public meeting, or by
directly contacting the City of Kerman.
Planning Commission and City Council Meetings, Study Sessions, and Public Hearings
The City held various Planning Commission and City Council Meetings, Study Sessions, and Public Hearings throughout
the update process to inform decision‐makers and the public, discuss key milestones, and provide direction for the
next steps.
Economic Development
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 2‐1
2Comprehensive economic development must incorporate both economic advancement and quality of life,
understanding both local and regional market demand while planning for a future that reflects the needs and vision of
Kerman residents. Economic development in Kerman needs to ensure that traditional employment sectors including
agriculture, manufacturing, construction, transportation, and warehousing can remain self‐renewing and vibrant in
the face of substantial cost pressures, shifting consumer demands, and competition. At the same time, it is important
to encourage new types of businesses that reflect current technological and market opportunities and are also
aligned with the skills and creative abilities of the workforce. Kerman also has opportunities to expand visitor services
in the community. To address these needs, the Economic Development Element includes goals, policies, and
programs related to retention and expansion of existing business sectors as well as diversifying the economy to
develop new kinds of businesses in the city.
Goals, policies, and implementation programs in this element are organized under the following headings:
Section Title Page
2.1 Commercial Business Retention and Growth ............................................................................ 2‐2
2.2 Agricultural Economy ................................................................................................................. 2‐3
2.3 Economic Diversification and Expansion ................................................................................... 2‐4
2.4 Implementation Programs ......................................................................................................... 2‐5
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2.1 Commercial Business Retention and Growth
Kerman has been experiencing strong growth in retail, with officials anticipating continued growth in this sector. As
part of this momentum, the City has an opportunity to cultivate a business mix that better serves the range of
residents’ needs and desires, while also attracting visitors. Dining and retail establishments are particularly important,
not only for generating revenue, but also as centers for community gathering and recreation.
To attract a range of commercial uses to fulfill the needs and entertainment desires of residents and visitors. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal LU.5, modified)
ED-1.1 Increase Business The City shall strive to increase the number of businesses operating in Kerman to satisfy the routine
needs and dining, services, and retail desires of residents while also increasing sales, property,
business, and potential transient‐occupancy taxes. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy LU.I.6,
modified)
ED-1.2 Healthy Grocery Options The City shall strive to attract and retain high‐quality, full‐service grocery stores and other healthy
food purveyors as an essential economic development strategy. (Source: New Policy)
ED-1.3 Local Partnerships for Business Retention and Growth The City shall provide for the establishment of offices in existing residential structures, adjacent to
Madera Avenue in the original historic townsite. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy LU.F.1)
ED-1.4 Downtown Shopping and Entertainment The City shall work with Downtown businesses, property owners and other agencies to improve
circulation, parking, pedestrian facilities, and food service options to help promote increased
shopping and entertainment opportunities. (Source: New Policy)
2. Economic Development Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 2‐3
2.2 Agricultural Economy
Agriculture remains an economic base of the City of Kerman with nearly 20 percent of the labor force in agriculture‐
related occupations. Other agriculture‐related occupations with high shares of the city’s workforce include
transportation, production, manufacturing, and distribution. The City has an interest in ensuring that the agricultural
sector remains healthy and robust to maintain the local economy.
To support the continued economic viability of the agricultural sector as an integral business to the city. (Source: New Goal)
ED-2.1 Center for Agritourism The City shall strive to establish its reputation as a center for agritourism in the state. (Source:
Existing General Plan Policy LU.I.2 and Existing General Plan Policy LU.I.3, modified)
ED-2.2 New Agricultural Technologies The City shall attract technologies to the Kerman area that are related to the agricultural economy
industry, including plant breeding, nurseries, integrated pest management, and agricultural chemical
companies. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy LU.I.4)
ED-2.3 Value-Added Production The City shall promote the production of “value‐added” crops to maximize the economic benefit of
Kerman’s agricultural industry and ensure its continued success. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal
LU.G.4, modified)
ED-2.4 Collaboration with Business Organizations The City should work with the Fresno County Farm Bureau, Fresno County Office of Tourism, and the
Kerman Chamber of Commerce to encourage tours, dissemination of agriculturally‐related news
releases, and information regarding agricultural cluster industries in the Kerman area. (Source:
Existing General Plan Action LU.I.3.a)
ED-2.5 Agricultural Business Programs The City will continue to shall support programs that assist and educate farmers in diversifying their
products and establishing expertise in a niche or specialty farming area, such as a specialty crop or
organic farming. (Source: New Policy)
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2.3 Economic Diversification and Expansion
The cornerstone for ensuring economic longevity is continued investment in successful local industries. While
agriculture will continue to play a central role in the city’s economic base, it is important that the City also invests
energy into diversifying industries and employment opportunities. A more diversified economy provides the potential
for successful collaboration, as well as options to ensure that the city is resilient and able to maintain its economic
competitiveness in the event of changing climate or economic conditions.
To foster a thriving local economy through the expansion of local businesses and attraction of new industries to provide quality employment opportunities for residents, as well as stable businesses and a sound tax base. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal LU.12, modified)
ED-3.1 Diversified Employment Base The City shall diversify the employment base, while enhancing its agricultural economic base.
(Source: Existing General Plan Policy LU.I.8 and Existing General Plan Policy LU.K.1, modified)
ED-3.2 Expanding Operations and Employment The City shall assist existing industries in expanding their operations and increasing employment in
Kerman to reduce commutes. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy LU.I.5 and Goal LU.3, modified)
ED-3.3 Broadband Service Access The City shall work with broadband service providers to develop quality broadband internet
infrastructure throughout the city that connects residents and businesses to national networks.
(Source: New Policy)
ED-3.4 Attracting Industries for Local Jobs The City shall seek industries that complement the existing workforce in terms of educational and
vocational skills set and commute patterns, and will provide full‐time, stable employment with
competitive wages and benefits. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy LU.I.9 and Existing General Plan
Action LU.I.9.a, modified)
ED-3.5 Industrial Development The City shall promote additional industrial development in the southern end of Kerman, including
through pursuit of State and Federal infrastructure financing. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy
LU.I.7 and Existing General Plan Action LU.I.5.c, modified)
ED-3.6 Marketing Civic Facilities The City shall market the Kerman civic facilities, including the Community Center, the Senior Center,
and Kerckhoff Park, for various events that would bring people to the community, such as
conferences, meetings, and festivals. (Source: Existing General Plan Action LU.I.2.a and Existing
General Plan Action LU.I.2.b, modified)
ED-3.7 Marketing and Branding The City shall promote positive media coverage, branding, and marketing campaigns that build civic
pride and foster economic investments in Kerman. (Source: New Policy)
2. Economic Development Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 2‐5
ED-3.8 EV-6.2 Workforce Development The City shall work with the Kerman Unified School District, and public and private universities,
colleges, and technical schools in the county to support the development, retraining, and retention
of a skilled workforce. (Source: New Policy)
ED-3.8ED-3.9 Visitor Services The City shall seek to attract lodging and other visitor services to Kerman to promote increased
business travel, as well as agritourism and other leisure stays. (Source: New Policy)
2.4 Implementation Programs
Programs
Implements Which Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting Department(s) 2
02
0 – 2
02
5
20
26 – 2
03
0
20
31 – 2
04
0
An
nu
al
On
goin
g
A Transient Occupancy Tax
The City shall consider adopting a Transient
Occupancy Tax prior to approving lodging
developments in the City. (Source: New Program)
ED‐1.1 Planning and
Development
Services
Finance
B Leverage City Assets
The City shall evaluate the potential for leveraging
City assets such as city‐owned property in
Downtown for parking sites or the City solar farm
for low cost industrial energy. (Source: New
Program)
ED‐1.4
ED 3.5
ED‐3.6
Planning and
Development
Services
Finance
C City Website Marketing Kerman’s Agriculture
Strengths
The City should update the website to provide a
page that highlights the city’s strength as an
agricultural center through a photographic essay.
The webpage would serve as a marketing tool, as
well as to bolster civic pride. (Source: Existing
General Plan Action LU.I.2.c, modified)
ED‐2.1 Planning and
Development
Services
Finance
D Agricultural Technology Companies Contact List
The City should work with the Kerman Chamber of
Commerce and the agricultural sector to develop a
contact list of agricultural‐technology companies
in and near Kerman, such as plant breeding,
nurseries, integrated pest management, and
agricultural chemical companies. (Source: Existing
General Plan Action LU.I.4.a, modified)
ED‐2.2 Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 2‐6 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
Programs
Implements Which Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting Department(s) 2
02
0 – 2
02
5
20
26 – 2
03
0
20
31 – 2
04
0
An
nu
al
On
goin
g
E Collaboration with the Fresno County Economic
Development Corporation to Market New
Agricultural Technologies
The City should work with the Fresno County
Economic Development Corporation to develop an
information packet detailing the benefits of
locating agricultural‐technology industries in
Kerman, such as plant breeding, nurseries,
integrated pest management, and agricultural
chemical companies. (Source: Existing General
Plan Action LU.I.4.b)
ED‐2.2 Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
F Enhance Broadband Capacity
The City shall coordinate with broadband
providers and the regional broadband consortium
to explore opportunities to install gigabit speed
broadband capacity in Kerman. (Source: New
Program)
ED‐3.1
ED‐3.3
Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
G Marketing and Branding Strategy
The City shall develop and implement a marketing
and branding strategy to promote doing business
in Kerman. (Source: Existing General Plan Action
LU.I.2.c, modified)
ED‐3.4
ED‐3.7
Finance
Planning and
Development
Services
H Development Template for Service Commercial
Projects in the Industrial Park
The City should design a development template
for service commercial developments in the
industrial park. This design template would
provide a schematic layout of a potential service
commercial use, showing setbacks, landscaping,
parking, etc. (Source: Existing General Plan Action
LU.I.6.b)
ED‐3.5 Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
I City Website Marketing Civic Facility Rentals
The City should update the website to provide a
page that provides information on event spaces
that are available for rent in the city, including the
Community/Teen Center, the Senior Center, the
Kerman Middle School gym, local hotels, and
restaurants. (Source: Existing General Plan Action
LU.I.2.d, modified)
ED‐3.6 Planning and
Development
Services
Finance
N/A
Land Use
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 3‐1
3Kerman’s current land use pattern is based on more than a century of history that started around a Southern Pacific
Railroad Company station in 1891. Settlement and cultivation of the Kerman area continued through the turn of the
century as irrigation projects were extended. The original townsite subdivision map was filed with Fresno County in
the early 20th Century, which established the street grid encompassed by California Avenue, “G” Street, First Street
and Ninth Street. In 1921, Madera Avenue was paved from the Southern Pacific railroad tracks north to the San
Joaquin River and streetlights were installed from the tracks to Whitesbridge Avenue.
Kerman has grown slowly to ensure that the city preserves its small‐town, Central Valley charm as well as surrounding
agricultural and open space lands. Looking into the future, the City continues to prioritize orderly growth that directs
urban‐level development within City limits and revitalizes the historical commercial core, while supporting investment
in the southern industrial area and providing a variety of housing types.
The Land Use Element is the most prominent of the mandatory elements of the General Plan. It, more so than the
other elements, has the most significant impact on existing and future Kerman residents because it determines the
general location of residential, commercial, industrial, public, and open space uses. This Element balances land use
issues, opportunities, and constraints with the community’s other needs and desires.
Goals, policies, and implementation programs in this element are organized under the following headings:
Section Title Page
3.1 General Plan Buildout ................................................................................................................ 3‐2
3.2 Land Use Designations ............................................................................................................... 3‐3
3.3 Community Character and Design ........................................................................................... 3‐16
3.4 Growth Management .............................................................................................................. 3‐18
3.5 Agricultural Land ...................................................................................................................... 3‐20
3.6 Environmental Justice .............................................................................................................. 3‐21
3.7 Civic Engagement ..................................................................................................................... 3‐23
3.8 General Plan Consistency and Maintenance ........................................................................... 3‐24
3.9 Education and Lifelong Learning .............................................................................................. 3‐25
3.10 Implementation Programs ....................................................................................................... 3‐26
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 3‐2 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
Government Code § 65302(a) lists a number of items that should be addressed in the Land Use Element, to the extent
they are relevant to the Kerman Planning Area. The following were found to not apply to the Kerman General Plan.
Areas Subject to Flooding. There are no areas within the Kerman Planning Area that are subject to flooding
identified by flood plain mapping prepared by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) or the
Department of Water Resources. Stormwater runoff is managed through the city’s storm drainage system.
Timber Production. As applicable, a general plan needs to provide for a land use designation that provides for
timber production for those parcels of real property zoned for timberland production pursuant to the
California Timberland Productivity Act of 1982. There are no lands meeting this requirement in the Kerman
Planning Area.
Military Readiness Activities. General plans must address the impact of “new growth on military readiness
activities carried out on military bases, installations, and operating and training areas, when proposing zoning
ordinances or designating land uses covered by the general plan for land, or other territory adjacent to
military facilities, or underlying designated military aviation routes and airspace.” No military facilities are
adjacent to Kerman’s Planning Area, with the closest installation being Naval Air Station Lemoore (NAS
Lemoore) located approximately 25 miles south of the city. NAS Lemoore has five military operating areas
(MOA’s) covering portions of Fresno, Kern, Kings, and Tulare Counties. These MOA’s represent airspace that is
used for flight operations and separation of activities from NAS Lemoore. The Kerman Planning Area lies
beneath the north edge of MOA A and MOA C. The training “floors” (lowest operating altitudes) are 5,000
feet for MOA A and 16,000 feet for MOA C.
A Joint Land Use Study for NAS Lemoore was completed in 2011. As required by the State of California, NAS
Lemoore identified a military influence area (MIA) around the installation that designated areas where military
operations may impact local communities, and conversely, where local activities may affect the military’s
ability to carry out its mission. The City of Kerman’s Planning Area does not lie within this MIA.
3.1 General Plan Buildout
The 2040 General Plan designates land uses defining the type of development planned to occur throughout the
city through the planning horizon year of 2040 (approximately 20 years). Development projections for the
General Plan were determined by analyzing vacant and underutilized parcels within the city and the realistic
level of development potential based on what is allowed under the applicable land use designation factoring for
known physical constraints and/or regulatory requirements, such as provisions in Title 17 ‐ Zoning of the Kerman
Municipal Code. The development projections include the development potential of the General Plan focus
areas, as well as the housing development potential in the available land inventory of the City’s Housing
Element. The 2040 General Plan development projections are shown in Table 3‐1.
For comparison, the 2007 General Plan identified theoretical buildout capacities for residential,
commercial/office, industrial/service commercial, park, and school land uses as shown in Table 3‐1 for both high
and low population estimates. The table demonstrates actual development exceeded the projected high
estimates from the 2007 General Plan buildout scenario for residential, industrial, and school land use
categories. The 2040 General Plan uses a 20‐year planning horizon for development projections.
3. Land Use Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 3‐3
Table 3-1 Kerman 2040 General Plan Development Projections
Land Use
2007 General Plan Estimated Buildout Existing Built
and Under Construction 2018
Additional Development
Projected through 2040
Total Development
Projected through 2040 Low High
Residential (units) 2,978 3,719 4,215 1,500 5,715
Commercial / Office1
(acres)
113 225 129.5 30.9 160.9
Industrial / Service
Commercial (acres)
91 181 331.7 9.18 340.9
Parks (acres) 65 121 41.9 N/A N/A
Schools (acres) 80 80 204.7 N/A N/A
Source: Kerman 2007 General Plan; City of Kerman, 2018
3.13.2 Land Use Designations
A central component of the Land Use Element is the inclusion of a diversity of land use designations to adequately
classify and distinguish the various land uses needed within the city as well as descriptions that distinguish between
allowable levels of intensity, density, and typical uses, per Government Code Section 65302(a). The General Plan Land
Use Diagram (see Figure 3‐1) provides a graphical representation of the distribution of allowed land uses within the
city. It gives direction for how, where, and what kind of development may occur. The land use designations on the
Land Use Diagram may be subject to change through a General Plan Amendment at the initiation of a land
ownerlandowner or the City, depending on City needs, environmental conditions, and changes in surrounding land
uses.
The General Plan Land Use Diagram is largely implemented through the City’s zoning ordinance. Each land use
designation has a corresponding set of compatible zoning districts. The land use designations are intentionally broad,
the zoning designations are more detailed and provide a variety of detailed development standards, including
permitted and conditional uses, building heights, setbacks, lot coverage, and parking requirements. While the Land
Use Diagram guides zoning, it is not the same as the City’s Zoning Map. By design, the Land Use Diagram is intended
to be more general than the Zoning Map.
The Land Use Diagram includes 18 land use designations, as shown in Figure 3‐1. Each land use designation in this
section specifies allowed uses and development standards (e.g., density, intensity). These are described in Table 3‐21.
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 3‐4 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
P
P
SP
P
PP
P
WHITE
SBRI
DGE
MODOC
JENS
EN
COMM
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NIEL
SEN
HOWARD
SISKIYOU
KEAR
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BELM
ONT
DEL NORTE
CALIF
ORNI
A
MADERA
CHUR
CH
VINELAND
Plann
ing Ar
eaCit
y Lim
itsFut
ure Pa
rk (P)
Future
Scho
ol (S)
2040
Gen
eral P
lanVer
y Low
Densi
ty Re
siden
tial (V
LDR)
Low De
nsity
Resid
ential
(LDR)
Mediu
m De
nsity
Resid
entia
l (MDR
)Hig
h Den
sity Re
siden
tial (H
DR)
Mixed
Use (
MU)
Neigh
borho
od Co
mmerc
ial (NC
)Ge
neral
Comm
ercial
(GC)
Servic
e Com
mercia
l (SC)
Region
al Com
mercia
l (RC)
Office
(O)
Indust
rial (I
)Pu
blic (P
)Qu
asi-Pu
blic (Q
P)Sch
ools/I
nstitu
tiona
l (S/I)
Parks
(P)Po
nding
Basin
s (PB)
Urban
Reser
ve (UR
)Ag
ricultu
re (A)
00.5
1
Miles
Map D
ate: Ju
ne 28,
2019
Figure
3-1
Land U
se Dia
gram
SOUTH LASSEN
Source
: Minti
er Harn
ish, 20
19; Cit
y of K
erman,
2019.
3. Land Use Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 3‐5
Table 3-1Table 3-2 Land Use Designations
Designation Description Density / Intensity
Residential Designations
Very Low Density
Residential
VLDR
Compatible Zoning:
RR
RR‐43
RR‐100
Purpose and Application:
This designation allows for single‐family residential development at a
density of up to two units per gross acre. This designation shall be
reserved for those lands that are on the fringe of the community, have
already been divided into lot sizes that are one‐half acre or larger, or
are required to "buffer" an industrial, agricultural, or public use.
Development in this category is required to connect to the City's
wastewater collection system and water system. The City may also
require new projects to install infrastructure, such as sidewalks,
curbs/gutters, or street lightsstreetlights.
Typical Uses:
Single family detached dwellings
Accessory dwelling units
Compatible public and quasi‐public uses (e.g., churches, day‐
care centers, community centers, parks, and schools)
Maximum Density:
2 du/ac
Low Density Residential
LDR
Compatible Zoning:
R‐1
R‐1‐7
R‐1‐12
SD‐R‐5
SD‐R‐4.5
PD‐R‐1
PD‐R‐7
PD‐R‐12
Purpose and Application:
This designation allows for single‐family residential development at a
density of up to nine units per gross acre. This designation shall be
reserved for those areas with single‐family dwellings units and uses
that are typically associated with single family neighborhoods, such as
churches, day‐care centers, community centers, parks, and schools.
Development in this category is required to connect to the City's
wastewater collection system and water system. The City may also
require new projects to install infrastructure, such as sidewalks,
curbs/gutters, or street lightsstreetlights.
Typical Uses:
Single family detached dwellings
Accessory dwelling units
Compatible public and quasi‐public uses (e.g., churches, day‐
care centers, community centers, parks, and schools)
Maximum Density:
9 du/ac
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 3‐6 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
Designation Description Density / Intensity
Medium Density
Residential
MDR
Compatible Zoning:
R‐2
SD‐R‐3.5
PD
Purpose and Application:
This designation allows for residential development at a density of up
to 12 units per gross acre. Development in this category could include
a mix of single‐family and multifamily residences, including duplexes,
triplexes, fourplexes, and mobile homes. Each quadrant of the
community will contain land that is designated for this type of
residential development to provide a mix of housing types.
Typical Uses:
Single family detached dwellings
Small‐lot multifamily dwellings, including duplexes, triplexes,
fourplexes, and mobile homes
Accessory dwelling units
Compatible public and quasi‐public uses (e.g., churches, day‐
care centers, community centers, parks, and schools)
Maximum Density:
12 du/ac
High Density
Residential
HDR
Compatible Zoning:
R‐3
SD‐R‐2.5
PD
Purpose and Application:
This designation allows for residential development at a density of up
to 20 units per gross acre. Development in this category could
encompass apartment complexes, senior housing, and condominiums.
This designation is applied to lands near, but not directly on, Madera
and Whitesbridge Avenues.
Typical Uses:
Large‐lot multifamily dwellings, including apartment
complexes, senior housing, and condominiums
Accessory dwelling units
Compatible public and quasi‐public uses (e.g., churches, day‐
care centers, community centers, parks, and schools)
Maximum Density:
20 du/ac
Mixed Use
Mixed Use
MU
Compatible Zoning:
MU
Purpose and Application:
This designation allows for a combination of residential, office, and
commercial uses. This designation shall generally be reserved for sites
that are centrally located and where mixed‐use development would
not conflict with neighboring existing land uses. Projects in these areas
are required to comply with the design standards of the Kerman
Zoning Ordinance's design districts.
Typical Uses:
Single‐ and multifamily dwellings
Major retail stores and restaurants
Personal service/repair, medical, and office uses
Administrative and professional offices
Central gathering places
Maximum Density:
20 du/ac
Floor Area Ratio:
1.0
3. Land Use Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 3‐7
Designation Description Density / Intensity
Commercial / Office / Industrial
Neighborhood
Commercial
NC
Compatible Zoning:
CN
Purpose and Application:
This designation is reserved for two areas in Kerman. Site one shall be
located near the intersection of Gateway Boulevard and Siskiyou
Avenue, and site two near the intersection of Kearney Boulevard and
Vineland or Goldenrod Avenue. These sites shall not exceed five acres
in size. Permitted uses will include grocery stores, video stores,
laundromats, and food service establishments. Development with this
designation will have the following distinguishing features: the building
site will have extensive landscaping, parking shall be off‐street and
shall be landscaped, signs shall be regulated, the architectural design
of the building will be compatible with adjacent residential dwellings,
and new uses shall undergo site plan review.
Typical Uses:
Retails sales and restaurants
Personal service/repair, medical, and office uses
Floor Area Ratio:
0.50
General Commercial
GC
Compatible Zoning:
CG
CSP
CS
Purpose and Application:
This designation identifies areas generally located along Madera and
Whitesbridge Avenues that are appropriate for shopping centers, retail
uses, and offices. Development with this designation will have the
following distinguishing features: landscaping, construction of off‐
street parking, regulated signs, and site plan review of new uses or
extensive expansion of existing uses. Projects in these areas are
required to comply with the design standards of the Kerman Zoning
Ordinance's design districts.
Typical Uses:
Large retail stores and restaurants
Personal service/repair, medical, and office uses
Floor Area Ratio:
0.30
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 3‐8 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
Designation Description Density / Intensity
Service Commercial
SC
Compatible Zoning:
CS
Purpose and Application:
This designation identifies areas generally located south of California
Street (A Street), and some properties north of Whitesbridge Avenue
and east of Madera and the Southern Pacific Railroad, that are
appropriate to provide a mix of light industrial and heavy commercial
uses. Development with this designation will have the following
distinguishing features: front yard landscaping, off‐street parking, all
visible equipment and storage areas shall be fenced and screened
from public view, lighting shall not be allowed to illuminate
surrounding properties, regulated signs, and site plan review of new
uses or extensive expansion of existing uses. Lands designated service
commercial shall be required to comply with the design standards of
the Kerman Zoning Ordinance's design districts.
Typical Uses:
Light manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, and
corporation yards
Wholesale uses and accessory business offices
Industrial and employee supporting retail and service uses
Floor Area Ratio:
0.30
Regional Commercial
RC
Compatible Zoning:
CG
CS
CSP
Purpose and Application:
This designation reserves land along Madera and Whitesbridge
Avenues for a regional shopping center that could include regional
shopping or “big box” facilities. Development within this designation
will have the following distinguishing features: landscaping,
construction of off‐street parking, regulated signs, and site plan review
of new uses or extensive expansion of existing uses. Lands designated
regional commercial shall be required to comply with the design
standards of the Kerman Zoning Ordinance's design districts.
Typical Uses:
Major retail stores and restaurants
Personal service/repair, medical, and office uses
Floor Area Ratio:
0.30
Office
O
Compatible Zoning:
CG
PA
Purpose and Application:
This designation identifies areas for office uses and areas that contain
single family dwellings that could be converted to office uses in the
future. For this designation to be applied to parcels with single family
dwelling units, these should have the following qualities: be adjacent
to commercial uses, have alley access, and located in a neighborhood
that is in transition. Lands designated for office shall be required to
comply with the design standards of Kerman Zoning Ordinance's
design districts.
Typical Uses:
Attached or detached single‐family dwellings
Administrative and professional offices
Floor Area Ratio:
1.0
3. Land Use Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 3‐9
Designation Description Density / Intensity
Industrial
I
Compatible Zoning:
M‐1
M‐2
M‐2‐IBA
Purpose and Application:
This designation identifies areas that are appropriate for industrial
development that are generally located south of the Southern Pacific
Railroad and north of Jensen Avenue. This designation provides for
uses that are involved in manufacturing, processing, warehousing, and
certain service commercial uses. Development within this designation
will have the following distinguishing features: landscaping, off‐street
parking lots with landscaping, fenced and screened storage areas, and
regulated signs. The City shall require site plan review for new uses in
this designation.
Typical Uses:
Manufacturing, processing, and warehousing
Compatible service commercial uses
Floor Area Ratio:
0.30
Public / Quasi-Public
Public
PUB
Compatible Zoning:
O
Purpose and Application:
This designation provides space for facilities that are public‐serving in
nature, such as the post office, City Hall, and County offices.
Development within this designation will have the following
distinguishing features: landscaping, off‐street parking lots with
landscaping, fenced and screened storage areas, and regulated signs.
The City shall require site plan review for new uses in this designation.
Typical Uses:
Government buildings
Libraries
Water, wastewater, and drainage facilities
Transportation and utility facilities
Compatible public buildings
Floor Area Ratio:
N/A
Quasi‐Public
QP
Compatible Zoning:
RR R‐1
RR‐43 R‐1‐7
RR‐100 R‐1‐12
R‐2 R‐3
SD‐R‐5 SD‐R‐4.5
PD‐R‐1 PD‐R‐7
SD‐R‐2.5 SD‐R‐3.5
PD‐R‐12
Purpose and Application:
This designation provides space for facilities that are public‐serving in
nature that focus on religious and spiritual worship. Quasi‐public uses
are mostly in residential areas along major roadways.
Typical Uses:
Churches and other places of worship
Floor Area Ratio:
N/A
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 3‐10 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
Designation Description Density / Intensity
Schools
S
Compatible Zoning:
RR R‐1
RR‐43 R‐1‐7
RR‐100 R‐1‐12
R‐2 R‐3
SD‐R‐5 SD‐R‐4.5
PD‐R‐1 PD‐R‐7
SD‐R‐2.5 SD‐R‐3.5
PD‐R‐12
Purpose and Application:
This designation provides space for publicly‐ and privately‐owned
educational facilities.
Typical Uses:
Public and private schools
Floor Area Ratio:
N/A
Parks
P
Compatible Zoning:
O
Purpose and Application:
This designation provides for open space areas and outdoor
recreational facilities that serve Kerman residents. Recreational
facilities include athletic fields, playgrounds, picnic areas, sitting areas,
trails, and open turf and natural areas.
Typical Uses:
Parks (neighborhood and regional parks)
Greenways and trails
Floor Area Ratio:
N/A
Other
Ponding Basins
PB
Compatible Zoning:
O
Purpose and Application:
This designation identifies areas that are designated ponding basins,
which hold stormwater during the rainy season to prevent flooding.
Typical Uses:
Ponding basins
Natural open space areas
Floor Area Ratio:
N/A
Urban Reserve
UR
Compatible Zoning:
UR
Purpose and Application:
This designation identifies areas that are outside of City limits but
within the SOI. These are undeveloped, open space areas.
Typical Uses:
Crop production, grazing, livestock raising facilities, dairies
Packing houses, feed/grain storage
Farmworker employee housing
Natural open space areas
Floor Area Ratio:
N/A
3. Land Use Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 3‐11
Designation Description Density / Intensity
Agriculture
AG
Compatible Zoning:
UR
Purpose and Application:
This designation applies to lands that currently used for agricultural
production, or have the capacity to support farming, as well as
associated and supportive uses, such as packing houses, dairies, and
other livestock operations. The purpose of this designation is to
protect agriculture from urban encroachment, maintain land in
agriculture until the time is appropriate for conversion to urban uses,
and to ensure that conflicts do not arise between agriculture and
urban uses.
Typical Uses:
Crop production, grazing, livestock raising facilities, dairies
Packing houses, feed/grain storage
Farmworker employee housing
Natural open space areas
Floor Area Ratio:
N/A
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 3‐12 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
Residential Use Standards
Standards of density for residential uses are stated as
the allowable maximum density. Density is defined as
the number of dwelling units per gross acre (du/ac) or
per parcel (du/parcel). Accessory dwelling units are not
included in the calculation of residential density. The
drawing to the right illustrates this concept.
Standards of population density for residential uses can
be derived by multiplying the maximum number of
dwelling units per net acre by the average number of
persons per dwelling unit assumed for the applicable
residential designation (e.g., two persons per dwelling
unit or three persons per dwelling unit). Typically,
smaller dwellings (e.g., apartments) house fewer
persons per unit, and larger dwellings (e.g., single‐family
homes) house more persons per units
Residential Density Examples
1 dwelling unit per acre
4 dwelling units per acre
8 dwelling units per acre
12 dwelling units per acre
20 dwelling units per acre
3. Land Use Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 3‐13
Non-Residential Use Standards
Standards of building intensity for non‐residential uses, such commercial and industrial uses, are stated as a range of
floor‐area ratios (FARs) that describe allowed development intensity. Dwellings may be provided in non‐residential
districts as part of mixed use projects. So long as the floor area ratio for the applicable designation is not exceeded,
the maximum residential density (listed in Table 3‐21 may be developed in addition to non‐residential development
on a site.
When calculating FAR, the building square footage includes finished interior spaces on all floors of the building and
excludes parking garages, structured parking levels, and exterior open space, such as courtyards, roof gardens, and
balconies. The diagram below illustrates various building configurations representing FARs of 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0. As
shown in the diagram, different interpretations of the same FAR standard can result in very different building forms
and site characteristics. However, some locations may be precluded from using some of the sample configurations
below as a result because of zoning limitations on overall lot coverage.
FAR Examples
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 3‐14 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
Gross versus Net Acreage
The term “gross acre” includes all land (including streets
and rights‐of‐way) designated for a particular use, while
net acreage excludes streets and rights‐of‐way. In
suburban areas, net acreage is normally 20 to 25 percent
less for a given area than gross acreage. In rural areas,
the difference between net and gross can be as low as
5 percent. Residential densities in the General Plan are
based on gross acreage. Non‐residential lot coverages
are based on net acreage.
The drawing to the right illustrates this concept.
Gross versus Net Acreage Examples
3. Land Use Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 3‐15
To guide the development of a mix of land uses that fulfill residents’ daily needs and provide recreational and entertainment amenities. (Source: New Goal)
LU-1.1 Land Designated for Service Commercial Uses The City shall continue to designate adequate land for service commercial uses. (Source: Existing
General Plan Policy LU.G.10, modified)
LU-1.2 Location of Neighborhood Commercial Sites The City shall designate neighborhood commercial sites in proper locations so that they meet the
needs of the neighborhood and do not negatively impact adjacent residential uses. (Source: Existing
General Plan Policy LU.G.1)
LU-1.3 Mixed Use Development The City shall provide for the establishment of offices in existing residential structures, adjacent to
Madera Avenue in the original historic townsite. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy LU.F.1)
LU-1.4 Limit Residential Development Along Highways The City shall limit residential development from fronting State Highway 145 and State Highway 180
to ensure public safety. Residential development along these facilities shall be designed and
buffered to reduce noise and air pollutant impacts to the maximum extent reasonably feasible and
consistent with CEQA review. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy S.D.2, modified)
LU-1.5 High-Density Residential Development Near Goods and Services The City shall encourage the development of high‐density residential uses near commercial uses,
parks, and schools. (Source: Existing General Plan Action LU.J.4.e, modified)
LU-1.6 Agricultural Buffers The City shall require non‐agricultural land uses adjacent to active agricultural uses to incorporate
adequate buffers (e.g., setbacks, fences) to protect public health and limit conflicts with adjoining
agricultural operations and pesticide applications. (Source: New Policy)
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 3‐16 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
3.23.3 Community Character and Design
Community character and design are key aspects of a city’s image and sense of place. These features influence how
residents feel about their city and can invoke a strong sense of ownership, involvement, and stewardship. Further, a
city that is clean, well‐maintained, safe, visually appealing, and attentive in its arrangement of land uses, can attract
outside investment, which generates employment, taxes, and further investment.
As part of investment in enhancing community character, the City is dedicated to restoring Kerman's original townsite
as the community’s focal point for events, shopping, leisure, and recreation. Kerman's original townsite was bounded
by Kearney Avenue on the north, California Avenue on the south, First Street on the west and Ninth Street on the
east. Kerman's original downtown, older neighborhoods, and first park is contained in this area. Most of Kerman's
first commercial buildings were in this area, along both sides of Madera Avenue.
To enhance the design, character, and vibrancy of Kerman as a family-friendly hometown community representative of the Central Valley. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal LU.1, Goal LU.13, and Existing General Plan Policy LU.A.4, modified)
LU-2.1 Attractive Community The City shall continue to promote a clean, well‐maintained community. (Source: Existing General
Plan Policy LU.A.1, modified)
LU-2.2 Natural and Rural Features The City shall emphasize its natural and rural features, such as mature trees and agricultural crops, as
the community’s visual framework. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy LU.A.7, modified)
LU-2.3 Neighborhood Atmosphere The City shall continue to actively preserve Kerman's single‐family residential neighborhood
atmosphere. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal LU.11)
LU-2.4 Architectural Character During the development review process, the City shall review new projects and major renovations to
ensure that the project design and architectural character complements the character of the
surrounding neighborhood. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy C, OS, P & R.C.1 and Action C, OS, P
& R.C.1.a, modified)
LU-2.5 High-Quality Design During the development review process, the City shall encourage new projects to incorporate high‐
quality site, architectural, and landscape design. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy LU.A.3,
modified)
LU-2.6 Gateway Features The City shall develop gateway features at Kerman’s four major entryways to boost city identity.
Gateway features may include special architectural elements such as signage, enhanced lighting,
corner towers, and/or unique landscaping treatments. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy LU.A.2,
modified)
3. Land Use Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 3‐17
LU-2.7 Streetscape Improvements in the Historic Townsite The City shall continue to improve the public realm, particularly in Kerman’s historic townsite along
Madera Avenue from Kearney to California Avenues, through streetscape improvements to enhance
its visual appearance. Improvements shall include installing attractive street light posts,
implementing branding features, constructing a continuous sidewalk network, removing barriers
from sidewalks that obstruct access, installing street furniture and landscaping, placing decorative
trash receptacles and other decorative features, and supporting facade improvements. (Source:
Existing General Plan Policy LU.A.5 and Existing General Plan Policy LU.B.1 and Action LU.B.1.d,
modified)
LU-2.8 Dark Skies Protection The City shall protect dark/night skies by requiring outdoor lighting to be shielded and/or directed
downward to limit overspill and glare, without compromising the safety and security of the
community. (Source: New Policy)
LU-2.9 Utility Service Line Placement During the development review process, the City shall require that new development projects place
utility service lines underground or parallel to existing utility rights‐of‐way, wherever feasible, to
minimize their visual impact. (Source: Existing General Plan Action LU.B.1.d, modified)
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 3‐18 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
3.33.4 Growth Management
The City has a direct role in managing future growth and development patterns by regulating the direction, rate,
density, intensity, and arrangement of land uses. A community that is well‐planned with a clear sense of place, a
vibrant downtown, open spaces, and attractive neighborhoods enhances city image. Compact development also
reduces the cost of providing infrastructure and public services compared to areas that are spread out. The City’s
dedication to growth management advances quality of life from a fiscal, environmental, and social perspective.
To create a land use pattern that protects agricultural and open space lands by promoting compact and centralized urban growth around the historical Kerman townsite. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy LU.C.2)
LU-3.1 Strong Community Edge The City shall develop and maintain a strong community edge that clearly separates urban and
agricultural uses, including through the use of man‐made or natural barriers such as streets,
railroads, and canals. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy LU.A.6, Existing General Plan Policy LU.K.4,
and Existing General Plan Policy C, OS, P & R.D.5, modified)
LU-3.2 Sphere of Influence Maintenance Urban Form To maintain the City’s compact form, the City shall maintain growth management controls by
managing changes to the City’s Sphere of Influence and incorporated City limits. Future changes to
the City’s the Sphere of Influence will be managed by two growth lines, shown on to proactively plan
and logically provide for growth of the community (see Figure 3‐2.)
The City may consider requests to amend the current Sphere of Influence and City limits into
Area 1 (shown on Figure 3‐2) based on the ability of the City to provide services to the area.
The City may consider requests to amend the current Sphere of Influence and City limits into
Area 2 (shown on Figure 3‐2) if Area 1 has reached the 80 percent infill criteria (for
residentially designated lands). The City Council may, at that time, consider allowing
development beyond the Area 1 Growth Boundary Line.
For any change in Sphere of Influence or City limits, the following considerations will be used:
80 percent of Area 1’s residentially designated land has been developed or has approved
development plans.
Residential housing needs such as affordable housing or a desire for a wider and more
diverse range of housing.
Community needs such as open space, recreational facilities, parks, schools, etc.
Obstacles to growth such as cost of infrastructure, Williamson Act properties, etc.
Economic development needs.
(Source: Existing General Plan Policy LU.C.3New Policy)
3. Land Use Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 3‐19
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e
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a
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Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 3‐20 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
LU-3.3 Prevent Sprawl Development The City shall direct new development to areas that are contiguous to existing or approved
development and prevent sprawl development. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy LU.C.6)
LU-3.4 Leapfrog Development The City shall require the Planning Commission and City Council to make a finding before approving
new subdivisions that are more than 1/8 mile from existing urban development. (Source: Existing
General Plan Action LU.K.1.a)
LU-3.5 Increase Density and Intensity within City Limits The City shall prioritize increase overall residential densities and building intensities within current
City limits to prevent development on surrounding agricultural lands. (Source: Existing General Plan
Policy LU.K.3, modified)
LU-3.6 Infill and Renovation The City shall encourage infill of vacant commercial properties and renovation of existing commercial
structures to reduce the rate at which surrounding agricultural land is urbanized and to provide for a
more efficient use of existing infrastructure. (Source: E Existing General Plan Policy LU.C.7 and
Existing General Plan Policy LU.G.7, modified)
3.43.5 Agricultural Land
Agricultural land is a renewable natural resource. Conversion of prime agricultural land to non‐agricultural uses or
impairment of its productivity is considered a significant environmental impact under the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA).
The economy of the Kerman area is dependent upon agricultural industries. In 2018, about three‐quarters of the land
in Kerman’s planning area was used for agricultural purposes. The primary crops grown in the Kerman area include
raisin grapes, almonds, cotton, and alfalfa. Vineyards and orchards are the principal crops found north and east of
Kerman, while row crops are predominant in the south and west.
To protect agricultural resources in Kerman, particularly prime agricultural land. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal LU.G.4, modified)
LU-4.1 Agricultural Land Preservation The City shall preserve and protect agricultural lands by directing development to areas within City
limits that are designated for urban‐level development, and away from agriculturally designated land
to preserve open space and agricultural areas. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy C, OS, P & R.D.1
and Action LU.A.1.i, modified)
LU-4.2 Agricultural Conservation Easements The City shall consider purchasing agricultural conservation easements to mitigate the loss of
agricultural land to urban development within the SOI. These easements must be on land of at least
equal quality and size to the land being developed. (Existing General Plan Action C, OS, P & R.D.1.a,
modified)
3. Land Use Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 3‐21
LU-4.3 Agricultural Zoning within SOI The City shall continue to encourage Fresno County to apply large‐lot agricultural zoning (20‐acre
minimum) to unincorporated land within Kerman's Sphere of Influence. (Source: Existing General
Plan Policy LU.K.2 and Policy LU.K.5, modified)
LU-4.4 Opposition to Projects within SOI The City shall oppose any development within its Sphere of Influence that creates parcels of less than
20 acres. (Source: Existing General Plan Action LU.K.2.a, modified)
LU-4.5 Right-to-Farm Disclosure The City shall require that property owners and applicants within 1,000 feet of agricultural land or
agricultural operations sign and record a deed of notification to document that they were informed
of the potential agricultural operations and agricultural conditions in the area. (Source: New Policy)
3.53.6 Environmental Justice
The State enacted Senate Bill 1000 (SB 1000) in 2016 in response to increasing concerns about vulnerable
communities in California experiencing environmental injustice. SB 1000 requires general plans adopted after
January 1, 2018 to incorporate environmental justice goals, policies, and objectives to address health risks in
disadvantaged communities. SB 1000 focuses on addressinges environmental injustices by reducing unique or
compounded health risks in disadvantaged communities by reducing exposure to pollutants or other hazards,
promoting healthy habits, prioritizing infrastructure improvements and programs that address the needs of
disadvantaged communities, and promoting civic engagement in the public decision‐making process.
The primary tool used to identify disadvantaged communities, as defined by SB 1000, is the CalEnviroScreen 3.0
mapping tool, which was developed, and continues to be maintained by, California’s Office of Environmental Health
Hazard Assessment. CalEnviroScreen is a screening methodology that helps identify communities that are
disproportionately burdened by multiple sources of pollution and with population characteristics that make them
more sensitive to pollution. A higher CalEnviroScreen score indicates a greater environmental burden.
Appendix A provides details on SB 1000 and environmental justice. In this appendix, Figure A‐1 shows the impacted
disadvantaged communities in the Kerman Planning Area, as identified by CalEnviroScreen. As shown, there are two
census tracts that cover the Kerman Planning Area, separated by Madera Avenue. The eastern census tract has a
higher combined score in the 80 – 85 percentile, compared to the western census tract that is in the 75 – 80
percentile.
In the CalEnvironScreen assessment, scores equal to or over the 75th percentile warrant further treatment as part of
the General Plan. As the entire Planning Area is within this level, a general environmental justice goal and supporting
policies are provided in this section. As environmental justice touches on a wide range of topics, policies and
implementation programs are also incorporated throughout this General Plan to address environmental justice
concerns. These items are identified by the “EJ” icon included adjacent to the applicable items.
This icon identifies goals, policies, and implementation programs designed to address environmental
justice issues throughout this General Plan.
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 3‐22 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
The following are the key topics areas identified for the Kerman Planning Area based on factors being in
the 75th percentile or higher on CalEnviroScreen (see Appendix A for more details) and where to find goals,
policies, and implementation programs that address each topic. These are in addition to the goal and
policies included in this section (Goal LU‐5 and policies LU‐5.1 thru LU‐5.9).
Ozone & PM10 ...................................................... Goal PH‐7 and policies PH‐7.1 thru PH‐7.7
Pesticide Use ......................................................... LU‐1.6, PH‐6.5
Hazardous Waste Generators and Facilities ......... Goal PH‐6 and policies PH‐6.1 thru PH‐6.4
Solid Waste Sites and Facilities ............................. PFS‐4.4
Cardiovascular Disease ......................................... ED‐1.2, CIRC‐5.3 thru CIRC‐5.5, COS‐2.3, COS‐2.13
Educational Attainment ........................................ ED‐3.8, Goal LU‐8 and policies LU‐8.1 thru 8.4
Linguistic Isolation ................................................. Goal LU‐6 and policies LU‐6.1 thru LU‐6.5
Poverty .................................................................. Goal ED‐3 and policies ED‐3.1 thru ED‐3.5, and ED‐3.8
To ensure that land use decisions benefit Kerman residents, and do not create a disproportionate burden to a community based on location, income, race, color, national origin, or another demographic feature. (Source: New Goal),
LU-5.1 Equitable Public Services The City shall strive to equitably provide desirable public services and infrastructure to Kerman
residents, including parks, recreational facilities, community gardens, and public safety facilities.
(Source: New Policy)
LU-5.2 Environmental Protection The City shall apply environmental protection measures equally among geographic and
socioeconomic neighborhoods of the city. (Source: New Policy)
LU-5.3 Environmental Justice Considerations The City shall consider potential adverse health and safety impacts associated with land use
decisions to reduce negative impacts upon residents from hazardous materials, industrial activities,
agricultural operations using pesticides applied by spray techniques, facility locations, design
features, and other aspects that may negatively impact health or quality of life for affected county
residents. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy LU.I.9, modified)
LU-5.4 New Incompatible Land Uses The City shall prohibit the introduction of new incompatible land uses and environmental hazards
into existing residential areas. (Source: New Policy)
LU-5.5 Placement of New Residential Uses The City shall consider and mitigate potential adverse health and safety impacts prohibit associated
with the establishment of new residential and other sensitive land uses near industrial land uses,
agricultural operations using pesticides applied by spray techniques, the wastewater treatment
plant, landfills and waste treatment facilities, and other existing land uses that would be
incompatible with adjacent residential uses. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy S.D.1, modified)
3. Land Use Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 3‐23
LU-5.6 Negative Impacts from Potential Hazards The City shall work to reduce or prevent negative impacts associated with environmental hazards,
including industrial, agricultural operations using pesticides applied by spray techniques, and
roadway‐generated pollution. (Source: New Policy)
LU-5.7 Brownfield Remediation The City shall promote the remediation and reuse of contaminated brownfield sites to spur
economic development, expand natural open spaces and parks, community gardens, and other
similar health‐promoting community revitalization activities. (Source: New Policy)
LU-5.8 Healthy Food Providers The City shall encourage farmer’s markets and healthier food options, particularly near child‐
oriented uses (e.g., schools, family day care, parks). (Source: New Policy)
LU-5.9 Connections to Local Produce The City shall strive to enhance access to and consumption of fresh, local produce by encouraging
direct connections between local farmers/ranchers and markets, restaurants, institutions, schools,
hospitals, food banks, and other businesses. (Source: New Policy)
3.63.7 Civic Engagement
Another key component of environmental justice pursuant to SB 1000 is identifying objectives and policies to
promote increased access to the public decision‐making process. While technical analysis can provide insight into the
needs of an area, these practices can fall short without full participation by the individuals and groups that will be
most affected by a decision. These individuals and groups must have a seat at the table to engage in meaningful
dialogue and collaboration. The other major component of environmental justice is ensuring that the planning, siting,
development, and operations of public facilities and infrastructure does not disproportionately harm an area by
exposing the community to negative health effects, exposure to pollutants or other hazards, or environmental
degradation.
To promote meaningful dialogue and collaboration between members of disadvantaged communities and decision-makers to advance social and economic equity. (Source: New Goal)
LU-6.1 Community Input The City shall continue to facilitate opportunities for disadvantaged community residents and
stakeholders to provide meaningful and effective input on proposed planning activities early on and
continuously throughout the public review process. (Source: New Policy)
LU-6.2 Communication Channels The City shall continue to improve communication channels and methods for meaningful dialogue
between community members and decision‐makers. (Source: New Policy)
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 3‐24 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
LU-6.3 Times and Locations of Public Engagement Opportunities The City shall aim to hold meetings, workshops, and other public engagement opportunities at times
and locations that make it convenient for disadvantaged community members to attend, particularly
stakeholders who are the most likely to be directly affected by the outcome. (Source: New Policy)
LU-6.4 Variety of Public Communication Methods The City shall continue to share public information across a variety of media, technological, and
traditional platforms, and languages based upon the demographics of the community.
(Source: New Policy)
LU-6.5 Language Services The City will continue to evaluate the need for the provision of translation services, to the extent
feasible, in conveying important information to the community. (Source: New Policy)
3.73.8 General Plan Consistency and Maintenance
The General Plan is a living document that must reflect the City’s needs and desires, which evolve over time. The
effectiveness of the General Plan ultimately depends on how the City implements and maintains the Plan over its
lifetime. State law requires that most actions of local government affecting the physical environment be consistent
with the general plan and sets out guidelines for general plan monitoring, updating, and amendment. State law also
requires the General Plan to be consistent with other State laws and rules, including the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA). This section ensures that the City maintains a high level of attention to the General Plan by
providing for regular review and updating to ensure that City regulations and ordinances are consistent with the
General Plan, as well as consistency with overarching State law.
To provide a clear framework for the ongoing administration, maintenance, and implementation of the 2040 General Plan consistent with State law. (Source: New Goal)
LU-7.1 Five-year General Plan Review The City shall conduct a thorough review of the General Plan every five years from the date of final
approval, and revise and update as necessary. (Source: New Policy)
LU-7.2 Implementation Program Monitoring The City shall maintain and annually review the General Plan Implementation Programs. As part of
this process, the City shall update the prioritization of programs based on applicability, relevance,
timing of initiation, and availability of funding. (Source: New Policy)
LU-7.3 CEQA Compliance The City shall review projects for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA),
including the requirements outlined in Table AB‐1 in Appendix BA to reduce adversity to
environmental impacts. (Source: New Policy)
3. Land Use Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 3‐25
LU-7.4 Housing Element Updates As directed by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), the City
will update and implement a Housing Element that provides policy and programs to encourage the
provision of safe, well‐designed, accessible, sanitary, and affordable residential areas where people
of all ages can live, work, and play. This includes an equitable distribution of parks and public
facilities to all residential areas consistent with legal requirements.
3.9 Education and Lifelong Learning
Childcare and Early Childhood Development
Childcare and early childhood development are vital to the success of Kerman’s families and youth. These services
provide two key benefits. First, childcare makes it possible for parents, especially single‐parents and families with
multiple jobs and job shifts, to work and financially support their families. Second, quality childcare and childhood
development programs play a crucial role in the future success of children.
Public School Facilities
The Kerman Unified School District was formed in 2002 following a series of mergers. It includes the city of Kerman
and spans to the north to the San Joaquin River and to West Lincoln Avenue at its furthest southern point. In 2020,
the Kerman Unified School District was comprised of seven campuses: Goldenrod Elementary School, Kerman‐Floyd
Elementary School, Liberty Elementary School, Sun Empire Elementary School, Kerman Middle School, Kerman High
School, and Alternative Education programs at Enterprise High School. While Sun Empire Elementary School is
operated by the District, it is located several miles north of city limits. Goldenrod Elementary School is adjacent to the
eastern edge of city limits.
Lifelong Learning
Lifelong learning is an ongoing, voluntary, and self‐motivated pursuit of knowledge, primarily for personal enjoyment
and satisfaction. The term recognizes that learning is not confined to formal education and job training, but takes
place throughout life and in a range of situations.
To enhance the educational support system serving the city of Kerman to the benefit of all residents, regardless of age and location within the community. (Source: New Goal)
LU-8.1 Childcare and Early Childhood Development Centers The City shall encourage efforts to expand the overall capacity of local childcare and early childhood
development centers in Kerman. (Source: New Policy)
LU-8.2 Grant Funding The City shall coordinate with the Kerman Unified School District and community organizations to
pursue grant funding for programs designed to improve schools and State standardized test scores.
(Source: New Policy)
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 3‐26 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
LU-8.3 Joint Use Recreation Facilities The City shall work with the Kerman Unified School District to provide high‐quality recreation
facilities at school sites to provide the community opportunities for joint‐use of facilities during after‐
school hours. (Source: New Policy)
LU-8.4 Library and Lifelong Learning The City shall work with the Fresno County Library System to ensure the city’s library location,
services, and programs are adequate and appropriate to meet the community’s needs for education
and lifelong learning services, as well as the demands of an increasingly digital world. (Source: New
Policy)
3.83.10 Implementation Programs
Programs
Implements Which Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting Department(s) 2
02
0 – 2
02
5
20
26 – 2
03
0
20
31 – 2
04
0
An
nu
al
On
goin
g
A Zoning Ordinance Consistency
The City shall update the Zoning Ordinance to
ensure consistency with the General Plan Land
Use Map and the policies in the General Plan.
(Source: Existing General Plan Action LU.A.1.a,
modified)
LU‐1.1
LU‐1.2
LU‐1.3
LU‐1.4
LU‐1.5
LU‐3.4
Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
B Redevelopment of Nonconforming Uses
The City shall encourage redevelopment of
nonconforming uses along the City’s entrances.
(Source: Existing General Plan Action LU.A.2.b,
modified)
LU‐1.4 Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
C Code Enforcement
The City shall actively enforce the State Housing
Code to ensure that unsafe, dilapidated residential
structures are rehabilitated or demolished.
(Source: Existing General Plan Action LU.A.1.c)
LU‐2.3 Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
D Sign Design Guidelines
The City shall continue to enforce the Sign Design
Guidelines by requiring responsible entities of
noncompliant signs to conform with the
Guidelines or remove the sign(s). (Source: Existing
General Plan Action LU.A.1.d, modified)
LU‐2.3 Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
3. Land Use Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 3‐27
Programs
Implements Which Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting Department(s) 2
02
0 – 2
02
5
20
26 – 2
03
0
20
31 – 2
04
0
An
nu
al
On
goin
g
E Weed Abatement Program
The City shall activity enforce the City’s Weed
Abatement Program and inspect alleys and
businesses for compliance. (Source: Existing
General Plan Action LU.A.1.f, modified)
LU‐2.3 Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
F Streetscape Improvements
The City shall work with Caltrans, FCOG, and
private developers to beautify entryways into
Kerman through improvements including
landscaping, sign treatment, and lighting. (Source:
Existing General Plan Action LU.A.2.a, modified)
LU‐2.4
LU‐2.5
Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
G Dark Skies Ordinance
The City shall prepare and adopt a Dark Skies
Ordinance based on the Model Lighting Ordinance
approved by the International Dark‐Sky
Association and the Illuminating Engineering
Society of North America. (Source: New Program)
LU‐2.8 Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
H Sphere of Influence Update
The City shall update the Sphere of Influence
based on the “Proposed Sphere of Influence”
boundary shown on Figure 3‐2. (Source: New
Program)
LU‐3.2 Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
IH Agricultural Mitigation Program
The City shall develop an Agricultural Mitigation
Program to mitigate the loss of prime agricultural
land to urban development within the SOI. This
program shall be consistent with the California
Department of Conservation’s recommendations
for the development of an Agricultural Mitigation
Program to mitigate for the loss of prime
agricultural land at a ratio of 1:1.
(Source: New Program)
LU‐4.2 Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
JI Notice of Farming Practices
The City shall prepare a notice of farming practices
form to document that property owners and
applicants within 1,000 feet of agricultural land or
agricultural operations were informed of the
potential agricultural operations and agricultural
conditions in the area. (Source: New Program)
LU‐4.5 Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 3‐28 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
Programs
Implements Which Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting Department(s) 2
02
0 – 2
02
5
20
26 – 2
03
0
20
31 – 2
04
0
An
nu
al
On
goin
g
KJ General Plan Review
The City shall annually review the General Plan,
principally focusing on actions undertaken over
the past year that carry out the implementation
programs of the Plan. The review shall include a
report to the Planning Commission and City
Council that includes, if appropriate,
recommendations for amendments to the General
Plan. (Source: New Program)
LU‐7.2 Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
Circulation
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 4‐1
4The Circulation Element is correlated with the Land Use Element in ensuring that the city’s transportation system
appropriately accommodates growth anticipated during the General Plan planning period. It has a significant impact
on existing and future residents of Kerman because it determines the route and mode by which persons are going to
travel within the community and to other destinations outside the community. Pursuant to Government Code Section
65302(b), the Circulation Element must plan for a balanced, multimodal transportation network that meets the needs
of all users of streets, roads, and highways for safe and convenient travel in a manner. While this Element strives to
encourage a multimodal transportation system that serves the mobility needs of all residents, it also reflects the
suburban and rural nature of the city and its surrounding areas.
Goals, policies, and implementation programs in this element are organized under the following headings:
Section Title Page
4.1 Streets and Roadways ................................................................................................................ 4‐2
4.2 Vehicular Flow ........................................................................................................................... 4‐5
4.3 Goods Movement ...................................................................................................................... 4‐7
4.4 Parking ....................................................................................................................................... 4‐9
4.5 Alternative Transportation ...................................................................................................... 4‐10
4.6 Implementation Programs ....................................................................................................... 4‐12
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 4‐2 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
4.1 Streets and Roadways
Kerman’s roadway network is characterized as suburban and surrounded by rural roads leading into the city. It has
been developed along a traditional grid system with roads running north to south and east to west, consistent with
the two State Routes (SR) in the city: SR‐145 and SR‐180. SR‐145 is Madera Avenue, the main commercial corridor
through Kerman, with SR‐180 being Whitesbridge Avenue at the northern end of Kerman, one of the main East‐West
routes in Fresno County and the main route connecting Kerman to the city of Fresno. The road network facilitates
inter‐city and regional travel. Kerman defines its roadways by functional classification shown in Figure 4‐1. As Kerman
continues to grow into the future, it is important to consider traffic patterns.
To provide a safe and efficient roadway system that serves all users and enhances the community of Kerman. (Source: New Goal)
CIRC-1.1 Consistency between Land Use and Transportation Planning The City shall ensure land use and transportation planning are cohesive, consistent, mutually
supportive, and strive to reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT). This will include:
Maintaining land use patterns that encourage people to walk, bicycle, or use public transit
routinely for a significant number of their daily trips;
Using the City’s provision of public services to direct development to the most appropriate
locations; and
Promoting the infill of vacant land and redevelopment sites. (Source: New Policy)
CIRC-1.2 Complete Streets The City shall plan a multimodal transportation system that provides safe, comfortable, and
convenient access that accommodates various vehicle types and users, including automobiles,
agricultural equipment, public transit, bicyclists, and pedestrians. (Source: New Policy)
CIRC-1.3 Eliminate Gaps The City shall create a more comprehensive multimodal transportation system by identifying and
eliminating “gaps” in roadways, bikeways, and pedestrian networks; increasing public transit access;
and removing natural and man‐made barriers to accessibility and connectivity. (Source: Existing
General Plan Action LU.J.4.c)
CIRC-1.4 Inclusive Mobility The City shall consider the needs of all segments of the population when improving or expanding the
transportation network to provide safe and improved mobility opportunities for all residents and
employees, including persons with disabilities, youth, and elderly. (Source: New Policy)
CIRC-1.5 ADA Compliance The City shall strive to ensure that the circulation system is safe and accessible, consistent with the
American with Disabilities Act (ADA), to allow mobility‐impaired users, such as disabled persons and
seniors, to safely travel within and beyond the city. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy C4.16,
modified)
4. Circulation Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 4‐3
VINELAND
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Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 4‐4 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
CIRC-1.6 Safe Routes to School The City shall encourage the construction of facilities and provision of programs that ensure children,
families, and caretakers can walk, bike, and take public transit to school safely. (Source: New Policy)
CIRC-1.7 Achieving Mutual Interests through Capital Projects The City shall use capital improvements, such as resurfacing, utility work, and road construction, as
opportunities to improve the connectivity and safety for alternative modes of transportation, as
reasonably feasible. (Source: New Policy)
CIRC-1.8 Programming Funds for Circulation Projects The City shall insure that transportation and gasoline tax funds and other funds that can be used for
circulation projects are strategically programmed through the 5‐year capital budget and include all
modes of transportation. (Source: Existing General Plan Action LU.J.1.a, Existing General Plan Action
LU.J.2.a, and Existing General Plan Action CIRC.F.1.a, and Existing General Plan Policy CIRC.G.2,
modified)
CIRC-1.9 Landscaped Medians The City shall continue to expand the construction and maintenance of landscaped medians on all
expressways, arterials, and major collector roadways, focusing on low‐water‐use and drought‐
tolerant plants. (Source: Existing General Plan Action LU.A.5.b, modified)
CIRC-1.10 Adequate Egress/Ingress During subdivision review process, the City shall require that all subdivisions, except for cul‐de‐sac
streets, have a minimum of two egress/ingress points. (Source: Existing General Plan Action S.C.4.b)
CIRC-1.11 New Street Names During the review of subdivisions, the City shall ensure the new street names are continuations of
existing streets for streets that are aligned, and that addresses are logically assigned. (Source:
Existing General Plan Action S.C.4.a, modified)
CIRC-1.12 Residential Driveways During the development review process, the City shall strive to restrict residential driveways from
entering onto collector and arterial streets. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy CIRC.B.1 and
Existing General Plan Action LU.D.1.b, modified)
4. Circulation Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 4‐5
4.2 Vehicular Flow
Since the 1950s, the most common method to measure congestion and road capacity has been Level of Service (LOS).
LOS involves assigning letter grades assigned based on the number of seconds that motorists are delayed at
intersections, as well as reductions in free‐flow speed that may occur as a result of the presence of motorists.
Table 4‐1 outlines the City’s interpretation of the LOS ratings.
Table 4-1 Level of Service
LOS Description
A Free flow, low volume, high operating speed, high maneuverability
B Stable flow, moderate volume, speed somewhat restricted by traffic conditions, high maneuverability
C Stable flow, high volume, speed and maneuverability determined by traffic conditions
D Unstable flow, high volumes, tolerable but fluctuating operating speed and maneuverability
E Unstable flow, high volumes approaching roadway capacity, limited speed, intermittent vehicle queuing
F Forced flow, volumes lower than capacity due to very low speeds; heavy queuing of vehicles, frequent stoppages
Source: City of Kerman
In 2013, the State passed SB 743, which changes the way that transportation impacts are analyzed through the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) process. These changes include eliminating LOS as a basis for
determining significant impacts under CEQA for land use projects, and instead using vehicle miles traveled (VMT) per
capita. The intent of this change is to more appropriately balance the needs of congestion management with goals for
promoting infill development, active transportation, and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. As part of this
transition to VMT, the Circulation Element proposes using both automobile LOS, a localized (intersection or roadway
segment) measure of auto‐mobility, and the VMT metric to evaluate environmental impacts under CEQA.
To insure the design, construction, and maintenance of a safe, efficient, and complete roadway system that is well designed, visually attractive, and provides access to all parts of Kerman. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal CIRC 1, Goal CIRC 2, Goal CIRC 4, and Goal CIRC 7)
CIRC-2.1 Level of Service (LOS) and Vehicle Miles of Travel (VMT) Standards The City shall maintain LOS standards for use in considering conditions of approval for discretionary
development projects and use VMT analysis as the standard for evaluating environmental impacts
under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). (Source: New Policy)
CIRC-2.2 Maintain Adequate Level of Service (LOS) The City shall plan the roadway system to maintain adequate roadway LOS to avoid congestion and
reduce VMT. A level of service of C will be the desirable minimum service level in Kerman at which
highway, arterial, and collector segments will operate. A level of service of B will be the desirable
minimum service level in Kerman at which intersections and rail crossings will operate. (Source:
Existing General Plan Policy CIRC.A.1 and Existing General Plan Policy C, OS, P & R.A.3, modified)
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 4‐6 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
CIRC-2.3 CO Hotspot Screening The City shall require new development projects to demonstrate LOS reductions for any project‐
associated intersection to an LOS E or F or worsen an existing LOS F. If this requirement is not met, a
project‐specific CO Hotspot analysis shall be conducted using a protocol developed by the Institute
of Transportation Studies at University of California, Davis entitled Transportation Project‐Level
Carbon Monoxide Protocol. If the results demonstrate that the project will potentially have a
significant effect on any intersection, the City shall conduct a CO Hot Spot analysis. If the CO analysis
shows levels above current SJVAPCD ambient air quality standards, the project proponent shall be
required to make intersection improvements to reduce CO emissions at the intersection, alter the
project to reduce the impact, or implement other programs that can demonstrate a reduction in CO
Hot Spot emissions below SJVAPCD ambient air quality standards at the impacted intersection(s).
(Source: New Policy)
CIRC-2.4 Vehicle Trip Length and Travel Time Reduction The City shall continue to improve the street network to be efficient and provide multiple routes that
are efficient to reduce trip length, travel time, idling time, intersection delays, and other emissions‐
producing activities. (Source: Existing General Plan Action LU.J.4.b and Existing General Plan Policy C,
OS, P & R.A.4, modified)
CIRC-2.5 Greenhouse Gas Reduction The City shall strive to achieve VMT reductions consistent with the California Air Resources Board
(CARB) 2017 Scoping Plan statewide greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction goals of 40 percent
below 1990 emissions levels by 2030, or the latest guidance from CARB, as updated.
(Source: New Policy)
CIRC-2.6 Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) Standards The City shall establish a 15 13 percent below baseline conditions as a clear and realistic VMT
threshold of significance to determine impacts on the environment related to development projects
based on Fresno Council of Governments (FCOG) modeling for the County. The City will develop the
baseline using the Fresno Council of Governments (FCOG) Regional Transportation Model.
(Source: New Policy)
CIRC-2.7 Mitigation of Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) Transportation Impacts The City shall require projects having potentially significant VMT transportation impacts under CEQA
to implement feasible mitigation measures necessary to reduce the VMT for or induced by the
project to the applicable performance metrics. Such mitigation measures may include, but are not
limited to:
Provide infrastructure and facilities for walking and bicycling, particularly those that connect
with and ensure access to existing active transportation infrastructure and transit;
Include on‐site EV charging capabilities;
Incorporate traffic‐calming measures ;
Unbundle parking (separate/optional cost) from residential units in multifamily housing
developments;
Provide incentives to carpool or use active transportation; and/or
Provide payment into an in‐lieu fee program to reduce VMT. (Source: New Policy)
4. Circulation Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 4‐7
4.3 Goods Movement
The ability to move goods throughout California’s transportation network is crucial to the economic vitality of the
state. The truck networks in Fresno County consist mainly of State highways. SR‐145 and SR‐180, which run through
Kerman, serve as Terminal Access routes in California’s truck network. Most large trucks are allowed on these
roadways, including single and double trailer vehicles that are 48 to 57 feet in length.
SR‐180 and SR‐145 run directly through Kerman on S. Madera Ave., which creates challenges for encouraging a safe
and vibrant central business district with a strong sense of place. Truck traffic is inherently transient and creates many
nuisances for residents and business owners. Caltrans recognizes the long‐term need to realign these State routes
outside of the center of the community. As described in the Route Adoption Study Report, Caltrans has adopted a
bypass for SR‐180 that is north of the current alignment along Whitesbridge Avenue. For SR‐145, potential options for
the future include designating a route alignment for SR‐145 around the city near or on the Lassen Avenue or Howard
Avenue, or relinquishing S. Madera Ave. as SR‐145 altogether. Figure 4‐2 shows the proposed SR‐145 alignments and
the Caltrans adopted SR‐180 Kerman bypass. Realization of these realignments of SR‐180 and SR‐145 span beyond the
20‐year planning horizon of this General Plan.
To establish safe and efficient truck routes and truck facilities with minimal impacts on residents or business in Kerman. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal CIRC.A.6, modified)
CIRC-3.1 Designated Truck Routes To avoid the adverse impacts associated with truck traffic, the City shall continue to designate truck
routes on the following streets: Whitesbridge Avenue, Madera Avenue, and Church Avenue, as well
as all existing and proposed streets located within the Kerman industrial park. (Source: Existing
General Plan Policy CIRC.G.1)
CIRC-3.2 Direct Traffic Away from Kerman to Preserve Community Character The City shall coordinate with Caltrans to direct interregional traffic to Federal and interstate
highways to ensure safety of Kerman residents and preserve the city’s suburban character.
(Source: New Policy)
CIRC-3.3 Support SR-180 Northern Bypass through Kerman The City shall coordinate with FCOG and Caltrans to widen and improve the primary roadways that
connect Kerman with State Highway 99, Whitesbridge Avenue (State Highway 180) and Jensen Ave.
The City supports the SR‐180 Route from Interstate 5 to Brawley Avenue as described in the Route
Adoption Study Report approved by Caltrans in 2013 (Project 0600000445 20.10.710.870). This
includes the routing of SR‐180 north of Whitesbridge between Nielsen and Belmont Avenues
generally from N. Lassen Avenue to N. Biola Avenue. (Source: Existing General Plan Action LU.I.7.c,
modified)
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 4‐8 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
LASSENLASSEN
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4. Circulation Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 4‐9
CIRC-3.4 Support SR-145 Realignment or Redesignation through Kerman The City will work with Caltrans and FCOG to identify a preferred option to route trucks west or east
around Kerman off of Madera Avenue (SR‐145). These options could include designating a route
alignment for SR‐145 around the city near or on the Lassen Avenue or Howard Avenue alignment as
a new route or route swap, or via a relinquishment of Madera Avenue as SR‐145 through Kerman.
The relinquishment could be through a legislative process or by Caltrans with the selection of an
alternative route. (Source: New Policy)
4.4 Parking
The success of commercial businesses can be dependent on adequate parking, particularly in suburban communities. People can be deterred from patronizing a business if they feel inconvenienced by a lack of close parking that is safe and pleasant. For other uses, such as public facilities, churches, apartments, and industries, adequate on‐site parking is important so that surrounding land uses are not negatively impacted by persons parking on or in front of these properties.
To ensure adequate off-street parking that is safe. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal CIRC.A.3, modified)
CIRC-4.1 Parking on the Public Right-of-Way The City shall limit parking on the public right‐of‐way along, particularly along Madera Avenue, with
public health and safety priorities. (Source: New Policy)
CIRC-4.2 Parking Lots for New Projects During the development review process, the City shall ensure that parking lots for new projects
incorporate landscaping, adequate lighting, proper pedestrian and bicycle connectivity, and are
designed to facilitate vehicle maneuverability. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy CIRC.C.2 and
Existing General Plan Action CIRC.C.2.a, modified)
CIRC-4.3 Frontage of New Parking Lots During the development review process, the City shall ensure that new parking lots along Madera
Avenue between California Avenue and Kearney Boulevard are designed so that the parking lot does
not occupy the entire frontage of the site. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy CIRC.C.3, modified)
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 4‐10 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
4.5 Alternative Transportation
While personal automobile travel has been the predominant transportation mode for residents, as the city looks
forward, it is critical to recognize and invest in alternative transportation modes to increase options, promote active
lifestyle choices, lower household transportation costs, decrease environmental impacts, and enhance a sense of
community. There are two public transit systems that service Kerman: the Fresno County Rural Transit Agency
(FCRTA) and the Westside Transit service. The City is working on upgrades to bicycle facilities, including construction
of additional bicycle lanes, particularly along California Avenue. The City is also improving sidewalks, completing a trail
that connects existing sidewalks and bike lanes, and adding amenities to rest areas, including park benches, lighting,
and trash receptacles. Figure 4‐3 shows the existing and planned bicycle facilities in the city.
To promote bicycling, walking, and using public transit, as functional alternatives to single-passenger automobile travel. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal CIRC.5, modified)
CIRC-5.1 Alternative Modes of Transportation The City shall encourage project site designs and subdivision street and lot designs that support
alternative modes of transportation, including public transit, bicycling, and walking. (Source: Fresno
COG 2018 Regional Transportation Plan EIR, Mitigation CC3.6.1‐1)
CIRC-5.2 Active Transportation The City shall encourage bicycling, walking, taking public transit, and carpooling as alternatives to
driving single‐passenger vehicles to reduce VMT, traffic congestion, and associated emissions from
additional automobile use. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy LU.J.1, Existing General Plan Policy
LU.J.2, Existing General Plan Policy CIRC.E.2, and Existing General Plan Policy C, OS, P & R.A.5,
modified)
CIRC-5.3 Continuous Bicycle Network The City shall design a safe and logical bicycle path network that links key destinations within the
planning area to promote the use of bicycles as a mode of transportation to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions and to encourage exercise. (Source: Existing General Plan Action LU.J.4.c, modified)
CIRC-5.4 Safe Sidewalks Along Whitesbridge and South Madera Avenues The City shall work with Caltrans to improve the sidewalks along Whitesbridge Avenue and South
Madera Avenue to provide a safe, continuous, and ADA‐compliant network that encourages walking,
and contributes to a sense of community. (Source: New Policy)
CIRC-5.5 Pedestrian Network The City shall design a continuous, safe, and attractive pedestrian environment within the
community and providing a safe linkage to key destinations, including schools and parks.
(Source: New Policy)
4. Circulation Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 4‐11
VINELAND
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Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 4‐12 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
CIRC-5.5CIRC-5.6 Pedestrian-Friendly Streets The City shall design and improve streets to be “pedestrian‐friendly” by incorporating features
including wide and unobstructed sidewalks, bulb outs at intersections, narrow traffic lanes at key
locations to slow traffic speed, adequate street lighting, and trees for natural shade cover. (Source:
Existing General Plan Action LU.J.4.a, modified)
CIRC-5.6CIRC-5.7 Transit Amenities The City shall encourage the development of facilities and services (e.g., streetlights, transit stop
benches and shelters, mobile trip planning applications, and electronic transit fare payment systems)
that promote transit use and contribute to community character. (Source: Existing General Plan
Action LU.J.1.b, modified)
CIRC-5.7CIRC-5.8 Permeable Pavement The City shall promote, as part of new roadway planning and design and as part of new discretionary
development, the use of permeable paving and other passive drainage features such as bio‐swales to
prevent flooding, particularly in urban areas. (Source: New Policy)
CIRC-5.8CIRC-5.9 Electric Vehicle Charging Stations The City shall support the installation of electric vehicle charging stations at County facilities, parking
lots, park‐and‐ride lots, and truck stops. (Source: New Policy)
4.6 Implementation Programs
Programs
Implements Which Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting Department(s) 2
02
0 – 2
02
5
20
26 – 2
03
0
20
31 – 2
04
0
An
nu
al
On
goin
g
A Traffic Impact Fees
The City shall calculate and implement
development impact fees for signalization that are
consistent with the Circulation Map and Assembly
Bill 1600 (legislation that requires a nexus, or
connection, between the fee being required and
the improvement to be installed). (Source: Existing
General Plan Action CIRC.D.1.b)
CIRC‐1.1 Public Works
N/A
B Capital Improvements for LOS Standards
The City will program street improvements into its
5‐year capital budget to insure assist the City in
maintainings its LOS standards, as resources allow.
Funds for these street improvement projects will
may come from gas tax, transportation funds, and
development impact fees. (Source: Existing
General Plan Action CIRC 1.A.a, modified)
CIRC‐1.1
CIRC‐1.2
Public Works
N/A
4. Circulation Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 4‐13
Programs
Implements Which Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting Department(s) 2
02
0 – 2
02
5
20
26 – 2
03
0
20
31 – 2
04
0
An
nu
al
On
goin
g
C Level of Service Ratings Evaluations
The City shall periodically review the levels of
service ratings at major intersections in Kerman to
evaluate the need for congestion management
initiatives and traffic calming measures. (Source:
Existing General Plan Action CIRC.D.1.a, modified)
CIRC‐1.1
CIRC‐1.2
Public Works
N/A
D Street Signage Maintenance
The City shall periodically check street signs to
ensure they are clearly visible and legible. (Source:
Existing General Plan Action S.C.4.a, modified)
CIRC‐1.3
CIRC‐1.6
CIRC‐1.11
Public Works
N/A
E Impact Fees for Railroad Crossings
The City shall calculate and implement
development impact fees for railroad crossings
consistent with the Circulation Diagram
(Figure 4‐1). (Source: Existing General Plan Action
CIRC.A.3.b)
CIRC‐1.8 Public Works
N/A
F Streetscape Design Plan
The City shall prepare and maintain the
streetscape design plan using funds as may be
available from gas tax, transportation funds, and
the State grant programs. (Source: Existing
General Plan Action CIRC.E.1.a, modified)
CIRC‐1.15
CIRC‐4.5
CIRC‐4.6
Public Works
Planning and
Development
Services
G Warning Lights at the Intersection of SR‐145 and
SR‐180
The City shall work with Caltrans to install traffic
warning lights at the intersection of S. Madera
Ave. (SR‐145) and Whitesbridge Ave. (SR‐180) for
vehicles to reduce travel speed and to protect
pedestrians and cyclists. (Source: Fresno County
Multi‐Hazard Mitigation Plan, F.5.3.1)
CIRC‐2.1
CIRC‐2.2
CIRC‐2.3
Public Works
N/A
H Analysis to Establish Vehicle Miles Traveled
(VMT) Standards
The City shall conduct an analysis of VMT in
Kerman and the surrounding areas to establish
realistic and achievable VMT thresholds of
significance to determine environmental impacts
under CEQA. (Source: New Program)
CIRC‐2.5 Public Works
N/A
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 4‐14 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
Programs
Implements Which Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting Department(s) 2
02
0 – 2
02
5
20
26 – 2
03
0
20
31 – 2
04
0
An
nu
al
On
goin
g
I Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) In‐Lieu Fee
Program
The City shall develop an in‐lieu fee program for
development exceeding established City VMT
standards for development to pay into to reduce
their VMT impacts. This fee program shall provide
funding for programs and infrastructure to reduce
VMT within the city and to and from the city.
(Source: New Program)
CIRC‐2.6 Public Works
N/A
J Active Transportation Plan
The City shall prepare an active transportation
plan that assesses the needs of pedestrians and
cyclists, identifies improvements to bicycle lanes
and sidewalks, and identifies future programs and
funding sources. (Source: Existing General Plan
Policy LU.J.3, Existing General Plan Action LU.J.3.a,
and Existing General Plan Policy CIRC.F.2,
modified)
CIRC‐4.2
CIRC‐4.3
CIRC‐4.4
Public Works
Planning and
Development
Services
K Alternative Transportation Design Guidelines and
Standards
The City shall adopt design guidelines and
standards promoting plans that encourage
alternative transportation modes, as resources
permit. (Source: Fresno COG 2018 Regional
Transportation Plan EIR, Mitigation CC3.6.1‐1)
CIRC‐5.1 Public Works
Planning and
Development
Services
L EV Charging Stations
The City shall work with Fresno COG on the
implementation of their regional plan to establish
priorities for EV charging station locations in the
city of Kerman, and on applying for grant funds to
implement these facilities. (Source: New Program)
CIRC‐5.8 Public Works
Planning and
Development
Services
Housing
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 5‐1
5State Housing Element Law (Government Code Section 65580, et seq.) mandates that local governments adequately
plan to meet the existing and projected housing needs of all economic segments of the community. The California
Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) and the Fresno Council of Governments (Fresno COG)
identify the projected Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) for each jurisdiction in Fresno County in cycles of
eight‐year projection periods (currently 2015‐2023). Once the RHNA has been identified, local governments must
adopt a revised Housing Element that plans to accommodate their portion of the region’s projected housing need.
The City’s current Housing Element, incorporated as part of the Fresno County Multi‐Jurisdictional Housing Element,
was adopted on April 6, 2016, and addresses housing needs for the 2015‐2023 projection period. This section
contains the goals, policies, and programs, extracted from that 2015‐2023 Housing Element, that apply to the City of
Kerman.
If there is determined to be a discrepancy between this chapter and the certified 2015‐2023 Fresno County
Multi‐Jurisdictional Housing Element, the content of the 2015‐2023 Fresno County Multi‐Jurisdictional
Housing Element shall prevail.
Section Title Page
New Housing Development ....................................................................................................... 5‐2
Affordable Housing .................................................................................................................... 5‐3
Housing and Neighborhood Conservation ................................................................................. 5‐4
Special Needs Housing ............................................................................................................... 5‐5
Fair and Equal Housing Opportunities ....................................................................................... 5‐6
Energy Conservation and Sustainable Development ................................................................. 5‐7
Implementation Programs ......................................................................................................... 5‐8
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 5‐2 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
New Housing Development
Every jurisdiction in Fresno County must plan to accommodate its agreed upon fair share of the regional housing
needs. As a region, the total housing needed over the 2013‐2023 Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA)
projection period is 41,470 units. For the jurisdictions participating in the Multijurisdictional Housing Element, the
total RHNA is 16,524 units. As part of this regional effort, the City of Kerman will provide for a variety of housing types
and ensure that adequate sites are available to meet its total RHNA of 1,332 units. As part of the Housing Element
update, the City developed a parcel‐specific inventory of sites suitable for future residential development. The
suitability of these sites has been determined based on the development standards in place and their ability to
facilitate the development of housing to meet the needs of the City’s current and future residents. However, the City
has a remaining need of 168 lower‐income units from the previous RHNA cycle.
To facilitate and encourage the provision of a range of housing types to meet the diverse needs of residents. (Source: 2015-2023 Housing Element Goal 1)
HE-1.1 Adequate Sites for New Housing Development The City shall provide adequate sites for new housing development through appropriate planned
land use designations, zoning, and development standards to accommodate the regional housing
needs for the 2013‐2023 planning period. (Source: 2015‐2023 Housing Element Policy 1.1)
HE-1.2 New Housing for All Economic Segments The City shall facilitate development of new housing for all economic segments of the community,
including extremely low, very low‐, low‐, moderate‐, and above moderate‐income households.
(Source: 2015‐2023 Housing Element Policy 1.2)
HE-1.3 Direct Growth to Urban Areas The City shall continue to direct new growth to urban areas in order to protect natural resources.
(Source: 2015‐2023 Housing Element Policy 1.3)
HE-1.4 Balanced and Orderly Growth The City shall promote balanced and orderly growth to minimize unnecessary development costs
adding to the cost of housing. (Source: Housing Element Policy 1.4)
HE-1.5 Infill Housing Development The City shall encourage infill housing development on vacant, by‐passed, and underutilized lots
within existing developed areas where essential public infrastructure is available. (Source: Housing
Element Policy 1.5)
HE-1.6 Higher-Density, Mixed-Use, and Transit-Oriented Development The City shall promote development of higher‐density housing, mixed‐use, and transit‐oriented
development in areas located along major transportation corridors and transit routes and served by
the necessary infrastructure. (Source: Housing Element Policy 1.6)
HE-1.7 Adequate Infrastructure to Serve New Housing The City shall ensure the adequate provision of water, sewer, storm drainage, roads, public facilities,
and other infrastructure necessary to serve new housing. (Source: Housing Element Policy 1.7)
5. Housing Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 5‐3
HE-1.8 Design Standards for New Housing The City shall approve new housing in accordance with design standards that will ensure the safety,
quality, integrity, and attractiveness of each housing unit. (Source: Housing Element Policy 1.8)
HE-1.9 Balanced Job Opportunities and Housing Types The City shall encourage development around employment centers that provides the opportunity for
local residents to live and work in the same community by balancing job opportunities with housing
types. (Source: Housing Element Policy 1.9)
Affordable Housing
The shortage of affordable housing is an issue facing most communities in California. In Fresno County, nearly half of
all households are considered “cost burdened,” paying more than 30 percent of their income on housing costs. For
lower‐income households, this rate is even higher – nearly three‐quarters of lower‐income households are cost‐
burdened. Building affordable housing has become even more challenging after the State eliminated redevelopment
agencies, depriving jurisdictions of the largest source of local funding for affordable housing. At the same time, State
and Federal funding for affordable housing has also been reduced. While the region faces many challenges in meeting
their housing needs for lower‐income residents, there are several actions jurisdictions can take to facilitate affordable
housing.
To encourage and facilitate the development of affordable housing. (Source: 2015-2023 Housing Element Goal 2)
HE-2.1 Public, Private, and Nonprofit Efforts for Affordable Housing Development The City shall support innovative public, private, and nonprofit efforts in the development of
affordable housing, particularly for the special needs groups. (Source: 2015‐2023 Housing Element
Policy 2.1)
HE-2.2 Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) The City shall continue to support the efforts of the Fresno Housing Authority in its administration of
Section 8 certificates and vouchers, and the development of affordable housing throughout the
county. (Source: 2015‐2023 Housing Element Policy 2.2)
HE-2.3 Incentives for Affordable Housing Development The City shall encourage development of affordable housing through the use of development
incentives, such as the Density Bonus Ordinance, fee waivers or deferrals, and expedited processing.
(Source: 2015‐2023 Housing Element Policy 2.3)
HE-2.4 Technical and Financial Assistance The City shall provide technical and financial assistance, where feasible, to developers, nonprofit
organizations, or other qualified private sector interests in the application and development of
projects for Federal and State financing. (Source: Housing Element Policy 2.4)
Hearing Draft Policy Document
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HE-2.5 Grants for Affordable Housing Development The City shall pursue grant funding to subsidize the development of affordable housing for low‐ and
very low and extremely low‐income households through new construction, acquisition, and/or
rehabilitation. (Source: Housing Element Policy 2.5)
HE-2.6 Second Dwelling Units The City shall encourage the development of second dwelling units to provide additional affordable
housing opportunities. (Source: Housing Element Policy 2.6)
HE-2.7 Removing Local Government Constraints to Affordable Housing Development The City shall work to ensure that local policies and standards do not act to constrain the production
of affordable housing units. (Source: Housing Element Policy 2.7)
HE-2.8 Homeownership Opportunities Expansion The City shall expand homeownership opportunities to lower‐ and moderate‐income households
through down payment assistance and other homeownership programs. (Source: Housing Element
Policy 2.8)
HE-2.9 Sweat Equity Programs The City shall encourage sweat equity programs as a means for increasing homeownership
opportunities for lower‐income residents. (Source: Housing Element Policy 2.9)
Housing and Neighborhood Conservation
The existing affordable housing stock is a valuable resource and conserving and improving the existing affordable
housing stock is a cost‐effective way to address lower‐income housing needs. There are an estimated 406 assisted
affordable housing units in the participating jurisdictions that are at‐risk of converting to market rate housing over the
next 10 years. Actions are needed to monitor the status of these units and work with non‐profits and the private
sector to preserve affordable housing. In addition, improvements are needed to maintain existing ownership housing
and the quality of residential neighborhoods.
To improve and maintain the quality of housing and residential neighborhoods. (Source: 2015-2023 Housing Element Goal 3)
HE-3.1 Preserving Neighborhood Character The City shall preserve the character, scale, and quality of established residential neighborhoods by
protecting them from the encroachment of incompatible or potentially disruptive land uses and/or
activities. (Source: 2015‐2023 Housing Element Policy 3.1)
HE-3.2 Housing Rehabilitation Assistance Programs The City shall assist low income homeowners and owners of affordable rental properties in
maintaining and improving residential properties through a variety of housing rehabilitation
assistance programs. (Source: 2015‐2023 Housing Element Policy 3.2)
5. Housing Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 5‐5
HE-3.3 Code Enforcement The City shall continue code enforcement efforts to work with property owners to preserve the
2015‐2023 Housing stock. (Source: 2015‐2023 Housing Element Policy 3.3)
HE-3.4 Removal of Unsafe, Substandard Dwellings The City shall provide for the removal of all unsafe, substandard dwellings that cannot be
economically repaired. (Source: Housing Element Policy 3.4)
HE-3.5 Investments in Public Facilities The City shall invest in public service facilities (streets, curb, gutter, drainage and utilities) to
encourage increased private market investment in declining or deteriorating neighborhoods.
(Source: Housing Element Policy 3.5)
HE-3.6 Assisted Rental Housing Preservation The City shall preserve assisted rental housing for long‐term occupancy by low‐ and moderate‐
income households. (Source: Housing Element Policy 3.6)
Special Needs Housing
Within the general population there are several groups of people who have special housing needs. These special
needs can make it difficult for members of these groups to locate suitable housing. Special needs groups include
homeless persons; single‐parent households; the elderly; persons with disabilities including developmental
disabilities; farmworkers; and large families.
To provide a range of housing types and services to meet the needs of individuals and households with special needs. (Source: 2015-2023 Housing Element Goal 4)
HE-4.1 Public and Private Involvement in Special Needs Housing Developing The City shall encourage public and private entity involvement early and often through the design,
construction, and rehabilitation of housing that incorporates facilities and services for households
with special needs. (Source: 2015‐2023 Housing Element Policy 4.1)
HE-4.2 Funding for Housing Designed for Special Needs Populations The City shall assist in local and regional efforts to secure funding for development and maintenance
of housing designed for special needs populations such as the elderly and persons with disabilities.
(Source: 2015‐2023 Housing Element Policy 4.2)
HE-4.3 Housing for Farmworkers The City shall support the use of available Federal, State, and local resources to provide and enhance
housing opportunities for farmworkers. (Source: 2015‐2023 Housing Element Policy 4.3)
HE-4.4 Development of Housing for Large Households The City shall encourage development of affordable housing units to accommodate large households
(three and four bedroom). (Source: Housing Element Policy 4.4)
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HE-4.5 Reasonable Accommodation for Individuals with Disabilities The City shall ensure equal access to housing by providing reasonable accommodation for individuals
with disabilities. (Source: Housing Element Policy 4.5)
HE-4.6 Housing and Services for Homeless Individuals Working in partnership with the other jurisdictions and the private/non‐profit sectors in Fresno
County, the City shall facilitate the provision of housing and services for the homeless and those at‐
risk of becoming homeless. (Source: Housing Element Policy 4.6)
Fair and Equal Housing Opportunities
Federal and State laws ensure all persons, regardless of their status, have equal opportunities to rent or purchase
housing without discrimination. Mediating tenant/landlord disputes, investigating complaints of discrimination,
providing education services, and improving public awareness are all part of a comprehensive program.
To promote housing opportunities for all residents regardless of age, race, religion, sex, marital status, ancestry, national origin, color, disability, or economic level. (Source: 2015-2023 Housing Element Goal 5)
HE-5.1 Fair Housing Laws The City shall support the enforcement of fair housing laws prohibiting discrimination in lending
practices and in the development, financing, sale, or rental of housing. (Source: 2015‐2023 Housing
Element Policy 5.1)
HE-5.2 Local Regulations for Equal Housing Opportunity The City shall ensure local ordinances and development regulations provide equal housing
opportunity for persons with disabilities. (Source: 2015‐2023 Housing Element Policy 5.2)
5. Housing Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 5‐7
Energy Conservation and Sustainable Development
High energy costs have particularly detrimental effects on low‐income households that do not have enough income or
cash reserves to absorb cost increases and must choose between basic needs such as shelter, food, and energy. While
new construction can help achieve energy conservation goals, more than half of the housing stock in the region was
built before California’s energy code was adopted in the 1980s. Consequently, the existing building stock offers
considerable opportunity for cost‐effective energy efficiency retrofits to decrease energy consumption.
To encourage energy efficiency in all new and 2015-2023 Housing. (Source: 2015-2023 Housing Element Goal 6)
HE-6.1 Energy Conservation in New Housing The City shall encourage the use of energy conserving techniques in the siting and design of new
housing. (Source: 2015‐2023 Housing Element Policy 6.1)
HE-6.2 State Energy Conservation Requirements The City shall actively implement and enforce all State energy conservation requirements for new
residential construction. (Source: 2015‐2023 Housing Element Policy 6.2)
HE-6.3 Public Education on Energy Conservation The City shall promote public awareness of the need for energy conservation. (Source: 2015‐2023
Housing Element Policy 6.3)
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Implementation Programs
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A Review Annexation Standards in Memorandum
of Understanding
All jurisdictions in Fresno County are subject to
the City‐County Memorandum of Understanding
(MOU), which establishes procedures for
annexation of land to cities. The City/County MOU
encourages urban development to take place
within cities and unincorporated communities
where urban services and facilities are available or
planned to be made available in an effort to
preserve agricultural land. The MOU standards
for annexation require that a minimum of 50
percent of annexation areas have an approved
tentative subdivision map or site plan. While cities
can take certain steps to “prezone” land in
advance of annexation, the annexation of the land
into the city limits is dependent upon private
developers to request an annexation. In cities that
are mostly built out within their current city limits,
the MOU may limit the cities’ ability to
accommodate future housing needs. (Source:
2015‐2023 Housing Element Program 2)
HE‐1.1
HE‐1.3
HE‐1.4
Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
B Rezone and Provision of Adequate Sites
The City of Kerman will provide for a variety of
housing types and ensure that adequate sites are
available to meet its total Regional Housing Needs
Allocation (RHNA) of 1,332 units. As part of this
Housing Element update, the City has developed a
parcel‐specific inventory of sites suitable for
future residential development. The suitability of
these sites has been determined based on the
development standards in place and their ability
to facilitate the development of housing to meet
the needs of the City’s current and future
residents. However, the City has a remaining need
of 168 lower‐income units from the Fourth Cycle
RHNA.
To meet the unaccommodated need for 168
lower‐income units, the City will reach out to
interested property owners of commercial,
industrial, and/or low density residential sites and
HE‐1.1
HE‐1.2
HE‐1.3
HE‐1.4
HE‐1.5
HE‐1.6
HE‐1.7
HE‐1.8
HE‐1.9
Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
5. Housing Element
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rezone at least 8.4 acres of land. The City is
currently considering a rezone application for an
affordable housing development on a
commercially‐zoned property on the southeast
corner of Whitesbridge Avenue and Siskiyou
Avenue. The property is just over 4 acres and may
be able to meet a portion of the City’s
unaccommodated lower‐income need. The City
will look for similar opportunities to meet the
remaining unaccommodated need by rezoning
vacant commercial land or upzoning vacant low
density residential land within the city limits. The
City will ensure the sites have access to
infrastructure and are suitable for residential
development. Rezoning to accommodate the
RHNA shortfall for lower‐income units must meet
the following requirements:
Sites must be rezoned to permit owner‐
occupied and rental multi‐family housing by
right without
discretionary review of the use or density; and
Sites must be zoned with a minimum density of
20 units per acre and be large enough to
accommodate at least 16 units per site.
At least 50 percent of the lower income RHNA
shortfall must be permitted on sites designated
for exclusively residential uses. (Source: 2015‐
2023 Housing Element Program 3)
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C Monitoring of Residential Capacity (No Net Loss)
The City will monitor the consumption of
residential acreage and development on non‐
residential sites included in the inventory to
ensure an adequate inventory is available to meet
the City’s RHNA obligations. To ensure sufficient
residential capacity is maintained to
accommodate the RHNA, the City will develop
and implement a formal ongoing (project‐by‐
project) evaluation procedure pursuant to
Government Code Section 65863. Should an
approval of development result in a reduction of
capacity below the residential capacity needed to
accommodate the remaining need for lower
income households, the City will identify and if
necessary, rezone sufficient sites to accommodate
the shortfall and ensure “no net loss” in capacity
to accommodate the RHNA. (Source: 2015‐2023
Housing Element Program 4)
HE‐1.1
HE‐1.2
HE‐1.3
HE‐1.4
HE‐1.5
HE‐1.6
Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
D Lot Consolidation and Lot Splits
The City’s vacant sites inventory is comprised of
parcels of varying sizes, from small lots of less
than half acre or large lots of over 20 acres; either
case presents unique challenges to residential
development, especially to multifamily housing
development. The City will encourage lot
consolidation or lot splitting to promote the
efficient use of land for residential development
pursuant to the Subdivision Map Act. (Source:
2015‐2023 Housing Element Program 11)
HE‐1.1
HE‐1.2
HE‐1.5
HE‐2.4
Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
E Affordable Housing Incentives
The City continues to have needs for affordable
housing for lower income households, especially
for seniors, disabled (including persons for
developmental disabilities), farmworkers, the
homeless, and those at imminent risk of becoming
homeless. The City will continue to work with
housing developers to expand affordable housing
opportunities in the community. (Source: 2015‐
2023 Housing Element Program 6)
HE‐1.2
HE‐2.1
HE‐2.2
HE‐2.3
HE‐2.4
HE‐2.5
HE‐2.6
HE‐2.7
Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
5. Housing Element
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F Farmworker Housing
The farming industry is the foundation of the
County’s economy base. According to the USDA,
National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS)
2012, about 58,600 workers were employed in
farm labor throughout the county, indicating a
significant need to provide housing for
farmworkers and their families, particularly during
peak harvest seasons. (Source: 2015‐2023 Housing
Element Program 7)
HE‐1.2
HE‐2.1
HE‐2.3
HE‐2.4
HE‐2.5
Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
G Regional Collaboration on Housing Opportunities
The Multi‐Jurisdictional Housing Element provides
an opportunity for countywide housing issues and
needs to be more effectively addressed at the
regional level rather than just at the local level,
and the 13 participating jurisdictions are
committed to continuing the regional
collaboration in the implementation of the
Housing Element. By working together, the
jurisdictions can share best practices, explore
opportunities for further collaboration, and make
the best use of limited resources. (Source: 2015‐
2023 Housing Element Program 1)
HE‐1.3
HE‐1.4
HE‐1.7
HE‐4.2
HE‐4.3
HE‐4.6
Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
H Water and Wastewater Service
The development viability of the vacant sites in
the inventory is directly linked to the availability
and capacity of public facilities and services. The
City continues to work to address water supply
issues and infrastructure capacity limitations.
Additionally, California Government Code Section
65589.7 requires water and sewer providers to
establish specific procedures and grant priority
water and sewer service to developments with
units affordable to lower‐income households. The
statute also requires local governments to
immediately deliver the housing element to water
and sewer providers. The City of Kerman is the
water and wastewater provider in the city.
(Source: 2015‐2023 Housing Element Program 5)
HE‐1.7 Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
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I Housing Choice Vouchers
The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program
extends rental subsidies to extremely low and very
low‐income households, including families,
seniors, and the disabled. The program offers a
voucher that pays the difference between the
current fair market rent (FMR) as established by
the HUD and what a tenant can afford to pay (i.e.
30 percent of household income). The Fresno
Housing Authority administers the housing
choice voucher program in Fresno County.
(Source: 2015‐2023 Housing Element Program 20)
HE‐2.2 Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
J Encourage and Facilitate Accessory Units (Second
Units)
A second unit (sometimes called an “accessory
dwelling unit” or “granny flat”) is an additional
self‐contained living unit either attached to or
detached from the primary residential unit on a
single lot. It has cooking, eating, sleeping, and full
sanitation facilities. Second units can be an
important source of affordable housing given that
they typically are smaller and have no associated
land costs. The City permits second units
ministerially in all residential zones. (Source: 2015‐
2023 Housing Element Program 9)
HE‐2.6 Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
K Monitor CUP Requirement for Multifamily and
Mixed Use Developments
The City requires a conditional use permit for
mixed‐use developments, all multifamily
residential developments larger than 40 units, and
all multifamily developments in the MU, OD, GC,
and –SD zones. While this has not been seen as a
constraint on development of housing in recent
years and several affordable multifamily projects
have been approved, the City will continue to
monitor the CUP requirement to ensure it does
not impact mixed‐use and multifamily
development. (Source: 2015‐2023 Housing
Element Program 13)
HE‐2.7 Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
5. Housing Element
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L Fresno County Homebuyer Assistance Program
(HAP)
City of Kerman participates in the County’s
Homebuyer Assistance Program. This program
assists lower income families with purchasing their
first home by providing a zero interest, deferred
payment loan that does not exceed 20 percent of
the purchase price of the single‐family residence
(plus loan closing costs). Households earning up to
80 percent AMI in unincorporated Fresno County
and participating cities are eligible for this
program. (Source: 2015‐2023 Housing Element
Program 17)
HE‐2.8 Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
M First‐Time Homebuyer Resources
Kerman residents have access to a number of
homebuyer assistance programs offered by the
California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA):
Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC): The MCC
Tax Credit is a federal credit which can reduce
potential federal income tax liability, creating
additional net spendable income which
borrowers may use toward their monthly
mortgage payment. This MCC Tax Credit
program may enable first‐time homebuyers to
convert a portion of their annual mortgage
interest into a direct dollar for dollar tax credit
on their U.S. individual income tax returns.
CalPLUS Conventional Program: This is a first
mortgage loan insured through private
mortgage insurance on the conventional
market. The interest rate on the CalPLUS
Conventional is fixed throughout the 30‐year
term. The CalPLUS Conventional is combined
with a CalHFA Zero Interest Program (ZIP),
which is a deferred‐payment junior loan of
three percent of the first mortgage loan
amount, for down payment assistance.
CalHFA Conventional Program: This is a first
mortgage loan insured through private
mortgage insurance on the conventional
market. The interest rate on the CalHFA
Conventional is fixed throughout the 30‐year
term.
HE‐2.8 Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
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CalHFA loans are offered through local loan
officers approved and trained by CalHFA. (Source:
2015‐2023 Housing Element Program 18)
N Code Enforcement
The City’s Code Enforcement Officer is in charge of
the enforcing the City’s building codes with the
objective of protecting the health and safety of
residents. (Source: 2015‐2023 Housing Element
Program 16)
HE‐3.1
HE‐3.3
Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
O Housing Rehabilitation Programs
The City of Kerman is a participating jurisdiction in
the Fresno County Housing Assistance
Rehabilitation Program, which provides loans to
qualifying homeowners in the unincorporated
County and participating cities for the
improvement of their homes. Eligible
improvements include energy efficiency upgrades
and installations, health and safety and hazard
corrections, and accessibility modifications. Loan
terms under this program vary according to
household income and the improvements and
repairs that are needed. City staff also serves as
the USDA 504 single family housing home repair
loan/grant packager for the City of Kerman. This
grant/loan program assists seniors and low‐
income eligible families in obtaining grants or low‐
interest loans to make home repairs. (Source:
2015‐2023 Housing Element Program 14)
HE‐3.2
HE‐3.4
HE‐4.1
Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
P Fresno County Rental Rehabilitation Program
(RRP)
This program provides no interest loans to
qualifying property owners in the unincorporated
County and participating cities for making
improvements to their rental properties. The City
of Kerman is a participating city. Eligible
improvements include repairing code deficiencies,
completing deferred maintenance, lead‐based
paint and asbestos abatement, HVAC repairs,
energy efficiency upgrades, accessibility
modifications, and kitchen and bathroom
upgrades. (Source: 2015‐2023 Housing Element
Program 15)
HE‐3.2
HE‐3.4
HE‐4.1
Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
5. Housing Element
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Q Preservation of Assisted Housing at Risk of
Converting to Market Rate
Preserving the existing affordable housing stock is
a cost‐effective approach to providing affordable
housing in Kerman. The City must guard against
the loss of housing units available to lower income
households. There are 100 publicly assisted
housing units at the Vintage Apartments (now
called Golden Meadows) that are considered at
risk of conversion to market rate in 2021. The City
will strive to preserve these at‐risk units as
affordable housing. (Source: 2015‐2023 Housing
Element Program 8)
HE‐3.6 Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
R Zoning Code Amendments
In compliance with State laws, the City will amend
its Zoning Code to address the provision of a
variety of housing options, especially housing for
special needs groups. Specifically, the City will
amend the Zoning Code to address the following:
Farmworker/Employee Housing: Comply the
Employee Housing Act which requires
farmworker housing up to 12 units or 36 beds
be considered an agricultural use and
permitted in any zone that permits agricultural
uses, and employee housing for six or fewer
employees are to be treated as a single family
structure and permitted in the same manner as
other dwellings of the same type in the same
zone.
Single Room Occupancy: Amend the Zoning
Code to address the provision of SRO housing.
Group Homes: Amend the Zoning Ordinance to
clarify provisions for group homes and allow
group homes for six or fewer residents in all
zones allowing single family residential uses.
Additionally, amend the Zoning Ordinance to
include provisions for larger group homes of
seven or more residents.
Second Units: Amend the Zoning Ordinance to
remove inconsistencies and clarify that second
units are permitted in all zones allowing single
family uses.
Reasonable Accommodation: Establish a
reasonable accommodation procedure to
HE‐4.1
HE‐4.2
HE‐4.3
HE‐4.4
HE‐4.5
HE‐4.6
Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
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provide flexibility in policies, rules, and
regulations in order to allow persons with
disabilities access to housing.
Density Bonus: Consistent with Government
Code, a density bonus up to 35 percent over
the otherwise maximum allowable residential
density under the applicable zoning district will
be available to developers who provide
affordable housing as part of their projects.
Developers of affordable housing will also be
entitled to receive incentives on a sliding scale
to a maximum of three, where the amount of
density bonus and number of incentives vary
according to the amount of affordable housing
units provided.
In addition, parking standards were identified as a
potential constraint. The City will consider
adopting an Administrative Modification process
to accommodate minor reduction in required
parking standards for senior citizen and other
qualified multifamily development projects as an
incentive to encourage and allow non‐profit
developers to construct more affordable units or
deeper affordability.
Additionally, the City will modify its conditional
use permit findings to remove the reference to
the term “morals” from the required findings of
approval. (Source: 2015‐2023 Housing Element
Program 10)
S Monitoring of Planning and Development Fees
The City charges various fees to review and
process development applications. Such fees may
add to the cost of housing development. (Source:
2015‐2023 Housing Element Program 12)
HE‐4.1
HE‐4.2
HE‐4.3
HE‐4.4
HE‐4.5
HE‐4.6
Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
5. Housing Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 5‐17
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T Fair Housing
Residents in the Central Valley, including Fresno
County, can access fair housing services provided
by the Fair Housing Council of Central Valley
(FHCCC). FHCCC offers mediation, counseling,
advocacy, research, and fair housing training and
workshops for residents as well as housing
providers. Other fair housing resources include the
Fresno Housing Authority, Fair Housing and Equal
Opportunity (FHEO) division of HUD, and the State
Department of Fair Employment and Housing
(DFEH). The City will assist in promoting fair
resources available in the region. (Source: 2015‐
2023 Housing Element Program 21)
HE‐5.1
HE‐5.2
Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
U Energy Conservation
The City promotes energy conservation in housing
development and rehabilitation. (Source: 2015‐
2023 Housing Element Program 19)
HE‐6.1
HE‐6.2
HE‐6.3
Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
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Conservation, Open Space, Parks and Recreation
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 6‐1
6Parks and open space areas are important attributes to Kerman that provide recreation for residents and visitors.
Open space areas are also vital for protecting natural resources and habitats and support the agricultural industry.
These areas are essential to the physical, cultural, and economic wellbeing of the city. This section of the General Plan
provides the policy framework for conserving natural resources, managing resource production, providing parks and
recreation, and preserving open space lands.
Goals, policies, and implementation programs in this element are organized under the following headings:
Section Title Page
6.1 Open Space ................................................................................................................................ 6‐3
6.2 Parks and Recreation ................................................................................................................. 6‐4
6.3 Cultural Resources ..................................................................................................................... 6‐6
6.4 Water Conservation ................................................................................................................... 6‐7
6.5 Energy Resource Conservation .................................................................................................. 6‐8
6.6 Implementation Programs ......................................................................................................... 6‐9
Government Code § 65302(d) lists a number of items that should be addressed in the Conservation Element, to the
extent they are relevant to the Kerman Planning Area. The following were found to not apply to the Kerman General
Plan.
Water and its Hydraulic Force. There are no areas within the Kerman Planning Area that are subject to
flooding identified by flood plain mapping prepared by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) or
the Department of Water Resources. Stormwater runoff is managed through the city’s storm drainage
system. Water supply is addressed in Section 8.2 of the Public Facilities and Services Element.
Forests/Timber Production. There are no forest lands in or adjacent to the Kerman Planning Area.
Accordingly, there are not timber resources used for timber production or processing.
Soils. Nearly 100 percent of the agricultural land within the Planning Area is considered either “Prime
Farmland, Farmland of Local Importance, or Farmland of Statewide Importance” by the California Department
of Conservation (DOC). Implementation of the 2040 General Plan would encourage the continued operation of
existing agriculture in, and surrounding, the city. Buildout of the 2040 General Plan would result in the
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 6‐2 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
conversion of active agricultural land, but this conversion would be offset by a policy requirement to preserve
an equal amount of like agricultural land (see policies under Goal LU‐4).
Rivers and Other Waters. Wetlands and water features in the city of Kerman have been highly altered and are
presently very scarce. There are no natural surface water features such as streams or lakes in the Kerman
Planning Area.
Harbors and Fisheries. There are no harbors or fisheries in the Kerman Planning Area.
Wildlife. One bird (Burrowing Owl [Athene cunicularia]) and one mammal (Fresno kangaroo rat [Dipodomys
nitratoides exilis] special‐status species are known to be in or possibly be found in the Kerman Planning Area
based on a search of the California Natural Diversity Database (NDDB). Another species that is likely to occur in
the Kerman Planning Area is the San Joaquin Kit Fox (Vulpes macrotis mutica), a Federally endangered and
State threatened species. There is no critical habitat designated for any special‐status plant and animal
species within the Kerman Planning Area. With implementation of the goals and policies in the 2040
General Plan, substantial adverse effects, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species
identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations by
the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Wervice would be avoided or
minimized.
Minerals. The Kerman Planning Area is not located in an area identified as having mineral deposit significance,
and per the most recent Department of Conservation’s Active Mine Operations Map, there are no active mine
operations in the planning area (DMG 2019; Division of Mine Reclamation 2019). The 2040 General Plan would
not facilitate any new mining activity and would not result in the loss of availability of known mineral
resources.
Effect on Natural Resources on Public Lands (including Military Lands). The Kerman Planning Area is not
adjacent to, or expected to have implications on, the natural resources on any public lands, including military
lands. No military facilities are adjacent to Kerman’s Planning Area, with the closest installation being Naval Air
Station Lemoore (NAS Lemoore) located approximately 25 miles south of the city.
Requirements for Open Space are defined in Government Code § 65560(b). Open space can include natural, passive
use, and active recreational use. The Kerman Planning Area does not contain notable areas of natural or passive open
space, with the open areas around the community dedicated to agricultural activities (the protection of which is
discussion in the policies under Goal LU‐4). Relative to active recreational use, the City is proud of it extensive park
system. Policies related to this type of open space are covered as part of this element.
6. Conservation, Open Space, and Recreation Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 6‐3
6.1 Open Space
Open space lands are undeveloped areas that provide a low‐density perception in an urban area, define the edge of a community, and provide the sight lines that allow long‐distance vistas to the Sierra Nevada and the Coast Ranges, agriculture fields, or other local viewpoints. Open space also provides habitat for locally significant natural resources. Kerman is in the Great Central Valley Region, an area that supports grasslands, marshes, vernal pools, alkali scrub, and riparian woodlands. Conservation of open space requires planning for the future. If these areas are not planned for at this time and set aside for the future, a city runs the risk of losing them to development. The policies in this section seek to preserve open space areas meet the needs of Kerman residents and are maintained over time.
To preserve and expand undeveloped open space areas in Kerman to meet the current and future needs of the community and support natural habitats. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal C, OS, P & R.2)
COS-1.1 Access to Open Space The City shall strive to improve and provide community access to open space, while environmentally
responsible and economically viable. (Source: New Policy)
COS-1.2 Visual Resources Protection The City shall reserve the existing scenic qualities of the community by regulating entryways, view
preservation, and landscaping. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal C, OS, P & R.5, modified)
COS-1.3 Night Skies Protection The City shall protect dark/night skies by encouraging measures that direct outdoor lighting
downward and away from open space areas, without compromising the safety and security of the
community. (Source: New Policy)
COS-1.4 Landscaping Buffers The City shall integrate landscaping buffers that contribute to neighborhood character to increase
safety at the park, and to reduce negative impacts on adjacent residences. (Source: Existing General
Plan Policy C, OS, P & R.F.3, modified)
COS-1.5 Landscape and Lighting Districts The City shall require proposed subdivisions to establish landscape and lighting districts to fund
maintenance of open space areas. (Source: Existing General Plan Action C, OS, P & R.G.5.a, modified)
Hearing Draft Policy Document
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6.2 Parks and Recreation
A park is an open area that provides recreation and leisure opportunities for a community. Parks can supply active as
well as passive recreation where activities can range from family picnics to organized sporting events. Kerman’s nine
parks make up almost 42 acres of land in the city, and in 2019 the City is planning four additional parks: Eastside
Community Park (15 ac), Northwest Park (2.56 ac), Westside Community Park (37 ac), and Stanislaus Park (1.86 ac).
These parks provide amenities such as sports fields, picnic areas, playgrounds, and open gathering areas. In total, the
existing and planned parks fulfill Kerman’s requirements for total parkland and provide numerous recreational
opportunities in the city.
In addition to parks, the City also provides a comprehensive range of quality recreational programs and activities that
reflect the needs of residents and the community’s identity. Recreational programs include Youth Performing Arts,
Start Smart Pre‐Sports, Teen Fest, Zumba, as well as a plethora of special one‐day events for residents of all ages.
The policies in this section seek to ensure that the City continues providing superior parks and recreational facilities to
fulfill Kerman residents.
To expand and maintain a high-quality public park and recreation system that is convenient, accessible, and affordable to all segments of the city. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal C, OS, P & R.3)
COS-2.1 Parkland Standard The City shall continue to acquire and develop adequate park sites to serve future City growth at a
standard of 4 acres of combined park and open space land per 1,000 residents. (Source: Existing
General Plan Policy C, OS, P & R.E.1 and C, OS, P & R.E.2, modified)
COS-2.2 Parkland Dedication The City shall continue to require developers to dedicate parkland or pay in‐lieu fees. (Source:
Existing General Plan Policy C, OS, P & R.G.1, modified)
COS-2.3 Future Park Locations The City shall ensure that future park locations are accessible to all residents and consider
connectivity and visibility from major roadways. Park locations should provide for equitable
distribution of parks within the community and strive to provide walkable access to a park from
existing or new residential areas. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy C, OS, P & R.F.1 and Existing
General Plan Policy C, OS, P & R.F.4, modified)
COS-2.4 Future Eastside and Westside Community Parks The City shall continue to work towards developing the planned regional parks and recreation
facilities, including the Eastside and Westside Community Parks. (Source: Existing General Plan Action
C, OS, P & R.E.6.b, modified)
COS-2.5 Amenities at Parks and Recreational Facilities The City shall provide a variety of types of park sites and recreational facilities with an array of
amenities to fulfill the city's diverse needs. Amenities shall include adequate lighting, restroom
facilities, water fountains, and continuous trails connecting the sites. (Source: Existing General Plan
Policy C, OS, P & R.E.3, modified)
6. Conservation, Open Space, and Recreation Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 6‐5
COS-2.6 Park Sustainable Infrastructure and Design The City shall use, to the maximum extent feasible, sustainable infrastructure such as Purple Pipe
(secondary water supply) and recycled materials when developing new parks or updating existing
parks. (Source: Existing General Plan Action C, OS, P & R.G.5.a, modified)
COS-2.7 Joint Use of School Parks and Recreational Facilities The City shall coordinate with the Kerman Unified School District in the joint use and maintenance of
school parks and recreational facilities, as well as pursue partnerships with other agencies,
community groups, and organizations. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy C, OS, P & R.E.4 and
Existing General Plan Policy C, OS, P & R.G.5, modified)
COS-2.8 Volunteerism in Park Maintenance The City shall continue engaging volunteers in park development and maintenance. (Source: Existing
General Plan Action C, OS, P & R.E.9.a, modified)
COS-2.9 Parks and Open Space Funding The City shall continue to pursue a combination of public and private funds, regulatory processes,
and innovative strategies to fund parkland development and maintenance. (Source: Existing General
Plan Goal C, OS, P & R.4, modified)
COS-2.10 Grant Funding The City shall continue to apply for Federal, State, and regional grants to implement parkland.
(Source: Existing General Plan Policy C, OS, P & R.G.2 and Existing General Plan Policy C, OS, P &
R.G.3, modified)
COS-2.11 Land and Monetary Donations for Parks The City shall continue to seek land and monetary donations towards park facilities. The City may
announce and recognize these efforts in recreation schedules, publications, plaques, or notices, or
other appropriate methods. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy C, OS, P & R.E.10, modified)
COS-2.12 Private Recreational Facilities The City shall encourage the development of private recreational facilities to increase the availability
of local recreational amenities such as racquetball, mini‐golf, softball, and rock climbing. (Source:
Existing General Plan Policy C, OS, P & R.E.6 and Existing General Plan Action C, OS, P & R.E.6.a,
modified)
COS-2.13 City Recreation Programs The City will continue to offer recreational programs designed to serve all ages and abilities within
the community with the goal of enhancing health outcomes and overall quality of life for all
residents. (Source: New Policy)
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6.3 Cultural Resources
Because Kerman began as a smaller agricultural city, there is the greatest potential for the presence of historical
resources in the city’s historic commercial core. Within the commercial core, Plaza Veterans Park is of particular
significance because it retains much of its early 20th Century form. While there are not many known historic and
cultural resources in Kerman, it is important to have measures in place to ensure their protection in the event of such
a discovery.
This section also focuses on supporting new cultural events and programs to enhance quality of life for residents.
Cultural resources are not limited to human remains and physical structures. A city’s sense of place is also defined by
cultural events and programs, such as the annual Almond Festival and Harvest Festival.
To protect sites and structures of historical and cultural significance, and to enhance the availability of new cultural amenities. (Source: New Goal)
COS-3.1 Tribal Consultation Requirements Compliance The City shall continue to comply with SB 18 and AB 52 by consulting with local California Native
American tribes. If archaeological resources of Native American origin are identified during project
construction, a qualified archaeologist shall consult with Kerman to begin native American
consultation procedures. Appropriate Native American tribes shall be contacted by the City or
qualified archaeologist. As part of this process, it may be determined that archaeological monitoring
may be required; a Native American monitor may also be required in addition to the archaeologist.
The project proponent shall fund the costs of the qualified archaeologist and Native American
monitor (as needed) and required analysis and shall implement any mitigation determined to be
necessary by the City, qualified archaeologist, and participating Native American tribe.
(Source: New Policy)
COS-3.2 Cultural Facilities The City shall continue to provide cultural facilities that provide a space for social connection and
leisure for residents, including the Senior/Teen Center. (Source: New Policy)
COS-3.3 Festivals and Events The City shall continue to support and attract festivals and events that benefit local businesses and
strengthen the City image. (Source: New Policy)
COS-3.4 Cultural Programs The City shall continue to encourage cultural programs and activities of local interest, including
partnering with other organizations to sponsor such activities. (Source: New Policy)
COS-3.5 Discretionary Development Review for Cultural Resources The City shall review discretionary development projects, as part of any required CEQA review, to
identify and protect important archaeological, paleontological, and cultural sites and their
contributing environment from damage, destruction, and abuse. to the maximum extent feasible.
Consistent with CEQA findings, Tthe City shall require project‐level mitigation to include accurate site
surveys, consideration of project alternatives to preserve archaeological and paleontological
resources, provisions for resource recovery, and preservation measures when displacement is
unavoidable. (Source: New Policy)
6. Conservation, Open Space, and Recreation Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 6‐7
6.4 Water Conservation
The City of Kerman obtains its water supply from a vast aquifer underlying the San Joaquin Valley. The quantity of
water appears to be adequate; however, there have been some quality problems particularly related to uranium
content. Certain stratas of the water table underlying Kerman are unfit for domestic purposes because of a
contamination problem. The City has been required to drill several new wells recently to obtain usable water. In the
future, Kerman must provide for long‐range community water needs and protect water quality and quantity. It must
also maximize the efficient use and conservation of the community's water resources. As a community heavily
dependent on agriculture, water resources are critical to maintaining the economic success and rural setting on
Kerman. The purpose of this section to provide policies that preserve and enhance water availability and quality.
To effectively manage water resources by adequately planning for the development, conservation, and protection of water resources for present and future generations. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal LU.4, modified)
COS-4.1 Public Landscaping Irrigation The City shall reduce use of potable water for landscaping irrigation at parks, schools, rights‐of‐way,
and other public spaces to the extent feasible. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy C, OS, P & R.B.4,
modified)
COS-4.2 Stormwater Retention Basins The City shall incorporate stormwater retention basins into recreational areas or wildlife habitat
areas for groundwater recharge. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy C, OS, P & R.B.3, modified)
COS-4.3 Native and Drought-Tolerant Plants The City shall require the use of native and drought‐tolerant plants for new landscaping in existing
and future parks and street medians. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy C, OS, P & R.B.2)
COS-4.4 Water for Agricultural Uses The City shall work with the appropriate agencies to effectively manage water quantity and quality to
ensure long‐term, adequate availability of water for agricultural uses. (Source: New Policy)
COS-4.5 Alternative Irrigation Techniques The City shall encourage farmers to use the latest irrigation techniques designed to reduce water
consumption. (Source: New Policy)
COS-4.6 Water Use Efficiency for New Development The City shall encourage new development and majority retrofits of existing development to
incorporate water conservation techniques. Such techniques include requiring low‐flow plumbing
fixtures in new construction that meet or exceed the California Plumbing Code, use of graywater for
landscaping, retention of stormwater runoff for groundwater recharge, use of reclaimed water for
outdoor irrigation (where available), and landscape water efficiency standards that meet or exceed
the standards in the California Model Water Efficiency Landscape Ordinance. (Source: New Policy)
COS-4.7 Water Conservation Education The City shall continue to promote educational programs on routine water conservation practices for
households, as well as educational programs targeted toward reducing water consumption on
agricultural lands. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy C, OS, P & R.B.1, modified)
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6.5 Energy Resource Conservation
Investments in renewable energy to promote efficiency and economic vitality. Efficient energy technology and
practices minimize costs and environmental impacts. Secure energy infrastructure that is resilient to changing climate
conditions is essential for natural resource conservation, public safety, and overall quality of life for future
generations.
To minimize energy consumption and reduce greenhouse gas emissions as part of the statewide effort to combat climate change. (Source: New Goal)
COS-5.1 Reduction of Fossil Fuels Reliance The City shall promote the development and use of renewable energy resources (e.g., solar, thermal,
wind, tidal) to reduce dependency on petroleum‐based energy sources. (Source: New Policy)
COS-5.2 GHG Reduction in Coordination with Regional Agencies The City shall work with FCOG and the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District to develop
and implement regional plans for the reduction of GHG emissions. (Source: New Policy )
COS-5.3 Sustainable Building Practices The City shall promote sustainable building practices that incorporate a “whole systems” approach to
design and construction that consumes less energy, water, and other non‐renewable resources, such
as facilitating passive ventilation and effective use of daylight. (Source: New Policy)
COS-5.4 Renewable Energy Features in New Projects During the development review process, the City shall encourage projects to integrate features that
support the generation, transmission, efficient use, and storage of renewable energy sources.
(Source: New Policy)
COS-5.5 Energy-Efficient Municipal Buildings The City shall consider CALGreen Tier 1 energy performance, along with LEED Silver or Gold
equivalent status for new municipal buildings to maximize energy efficiency. (Source: New Policy)
COS-5.6 Electric Vehicle Charging The City shall encourage and support expanding Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations and the
purchase of electric vehicles. (Source: New Policy)
COS-5.7 Energy Conservation Awareness The City shall increase awareness about energy efficiency and conservation to encourage residents,
businesses, and industries to conserve energy. (Source: New Policy)
6. Conservation, Open Space, and Recreation Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 6‐9
6.6 Implementation Programs
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A Dark Skies Ordinance
The City shall adopt a Dark Skies Ordinance to
establish lighting standards. The City shall prepare
the ordinance through guidance from the Model
Lighting Ordinance approved by the International
Dark‐Sky Association and the Illuminating
Engineering Society of North America. (Source:
New Program)
COS‐1.3 Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
B Joint Use Agreements for Parks and Recreational
Facilities
The City shall develop a Facilities Use agreements
and joint powers agreements with the Kerman
Unified School District and Fresno County Parks
Department for the sharing of park and recreation
facilities. (Source: Existing General Plan Action C,
OS, P & R.G.5.b)
COS‐2.7 Parks and
Recreation
N/A
C Adopt‐A‐Park
The City shall continue the "Adopt‐A‐Park"
program in which private citizens or organizations
(i.e.; service clubs, churches, scouting groups, etc.)
help with the development of open space, parks,
and recreation facilities. (Source: Existing General
Plan Action C, OS, P & R.E.9.a, modified)
COS‐2.8, COS‐
2.9, COS‐2.11
Parks and
Recreation
N/A
D Park Financing Feasibility Study
The City shall conduct a feasibility study on
financing park and recreation facilities by the sale
of tax‐allocation bonds. (Source: Existing General
Plan Action C, OS, P & R.G.4.a)
COS‐2.9 Parks and
Recreation
N/A
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E Fees for Recreational Programs and Park Rentals
The City shall annually review its fees for
recreational programs and park rentals to ensure
that they are sufficient to finance future park
needs. During this review, the City shall consider:
‐ User fees for use of a facility or participation in
an activity,
‐ Entrance fees for admission to large developed
recreation area,
‐ Rental fees for the use of recreation equipment
or property, and
‐ Admission fees for special events, exhibits, or
rallies. (Source: Existing General Plan Action C, OS,
P & R.G.2.a)
COS‐2.9 Parks and
Recreation
N/A
F Water‐Saving Techniques Information
The City shall provide the community with
information on water‐saving techniques by
producing and offering brochures, sharing
information on the City’s website, and hosting
pop‐up booths at public events. (Source: Existing
General Plan Action C, OS, P & R.B.1.a, modified)
COS‐4.7 Public Works
N/A
Public Health and Safety
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 7‐1
7
The Kerman Public Health Safety Element establishes a policy framework for protecting people and property from
unreasonable risks from natural disasters, crime, noise, and other events. It also focuses on disaster and emergency
response. It is a required component of general plans and is guided by several legislative requirements established by
the State of California.
Goals, policies, and implementation programs in this element are organized under the following headings:
Section Title Page
7.1 Law Enforcement ....................................................................................................................... 7‐2
7.2 Fire Protection ........................................................................................................................... 7‐3
7.3 Emergency Services ................................................................................................................... 7‐4
7.4 Natural Disasters ........................................................................................................................ 7‐5
7.5 Building Safety ........................................................................................................................... 7‐6
7.6 Hazardous Materials .................................................................................................................. 7‐7
7.7 Air Quality .................................................................................................................................. 7‐8
7.8 Noise ........................................................................................................................................ 7‐10
7.9 Implementation Programs ....................................................................................................... 7‐13
7.10 Requirements for an Acoustical Analysis ................................................................................. 7‐15
Government Code § 65302(g) lists a number of items that should be addressed in the Safety Element, to the extent
they are relevant to the Kerman Planning Area. The following were found to not apply to the Kerman General Plan.
Slope Instability. Being relatively flat, Kerman has no slope issues to address.
Seiche and Tsunami. Both issues do not occur or effect the Kerman Planning Area.
Government Code Gov. Code § 65302(g)(3) discusses wildland and urban fires. While urban fire protection is covered
in Section 7.2, wildland fire policies are not required due to the very low risk in the Planning Area. As designated by
the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, the Kerman Planning Area is located in an unzoned local
responsibility area according to the most recent Fire Hazard Severity Zones map. The nearest mapped hazard zone is
listed as a moderate fire hazard severity zone and is located five miles northwest of the city of Kerman between the
city of Mendota and the unincorporated community of Tranquility. The nearest very‐high fire hazard severity zone is
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 7‐2 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
located 30 miles to the southwest near the community of Huron. Because the Planning Area is not located in a fire
hazard severity zone, policies to address this topic are not required.
7.1 Law Enforcement
Law enforcement is the cornerstone of ensuring safety and security in Kerman. The Kerman Police Department provides police protection to the city with offices behind City Hall. Kerman also has a mutual aid agreement with the Fresno County Sheriff's Department and assists in handling dispatch duties in the city. The Sheriff’s Department has a substation located in the city of San Joaquin.
To provide timely, adequate, and fair law enforcement services to ensure a safe community. (Source: New Goal)
PH-1.1 Police Officer Ratio The City shall strive to achieve a ratio of one officer per 700 citizens to ensure adequate staffing to
provide law enforcement services. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy S.B.2, modified)
PH-1.2 Police Department Response Times The City shall continue to support the Police Department in maintaining prompt response times.
(Source: New Policy)
PH-1.3 Community Crime Prevention and Public Safety The City shall actively involve the community in crime prevention and public safety awareness by
educating and involving the public in all the tenets of community‐oriented public safety. (Source:
Existing General Plan Goal S.4 and Policy S.B.1)
PH-1.4 Video Policing Plan for New Projects The City shall require large residential developments (50 or more units) and large commercial
developments (more than 50,000 square feet) to include a video policing plan. (Source: New Policy)
7. Public Health and Safety Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 7‐3
7.2 Fire Protection
Kerman is located within the North Central Fire Protection District. The District headquarters and main station are on
the west side of Kerman along the north side of Kearney Boulevard and west of Del Norte Avenue. The District offers
a full range of services including fire prevention, suppression, emergency medical care, hazardous materials, search
and rescue response, as well as emergency preparedness planning and public education coordination. The District
provides comprehensive fire prevention services to all commercial, industrial, and residential establishments through
routine fire and life safety inspections and public education. The District reviews all building permits and subdivision
maps to ensure access and fire suppression equipment (i.e., fire hydrants) are properly located, and conducts fire
protection system inspections of new construction and routine fire and life safety inspections of existing buildings.
To minimize the risks to life and properties from fire hazards. (Source: New Goal)
PH-2.1 Adequate Staffing and Equipment The City shall coordinate with the North Central Fire District through the site plan review process and
the State's environmental review process to ensure that future development does not outpace the
expansion of the Central County Fire Department staffing, and the development of strategically
located and fully equipped fire stations. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy S.C.1 and Action S.C.1.a,
modified)
PH-2.2 Adequate Water Supply for Fire Suppression The City shall require new projects to have adequate water supplies to meet the fire‐suppression
needs of the project without compromising existing fire suppression services to existing uses.
(Source: New Policy)
PH-2.3 North Central Fire District Capital Improvement Plan The City shall encourage North Central Fire District to establish a 20‐year Capital Improvement Plan
that includes increased service capacity in Kerman, including a fire ladder truck and fire station.
(Source: Existing General Plan Policy S.C.1, modified)
PH-2.4 Fire Prevention Education The City shall continue to coordinate with North Central Fire District in providing education on fire
prevention training to City staff, residents, and business owners. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy
S.C.2, modified)
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 7‐4 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
7.3 Emergency Services
It is critical that the City plans for the provision of adequate emergency services. This refers to the coordinated efforts
by the City and other agencies to prevent, prepare for, respond to, recover from, and mitigate natural and man‐made
disasters and emergencies. Emergency services for the City of Kerman are primarily managed by the North Central
Fire Protection District and the Kerman Police Department. Safety goes beyond police and fire personnel, buildings,
and equipment – it is also rooted in social cohesion and a collective duty to ensure each other’s well‐being.
To provide the highest levels of public safety services as fiscally feasible to respond to natural and man-made disasters. (Source: New Goal)
PH-3.1 Continuity of Essential Operations The City shall continue to work with the Police Department, North Central Fire District, and among
City Staff to regularly train and establish clear procedures to provide continuity of essential City
operations and critical facilities in the event of a disaster. (Source: New Policy)
PH-3.2 Communications Systems The City shall maintain rapid, reliable, and redundant communication systems for emergency
response and community alerts, and actively educate residents and businesses on its use. The City
will look toward new technologies for rapid communication through mobile devices and other
developing technologies. (Source: New Policy)
PH-3.3 Non-Governmental Organizations The City shall develop and maintain relationships with private and nonprofit entities, such as the Red
Cross, to expand and coordinate public health services in the city. (Source: New Policy)
PH-3.4 Educational Information on Natural and Man-made Hazards The City shall continue to provide informational materials on potential harm, abatement, and
response to probable natural and man‐made hazards in the region. (Source: Existing General Plan
Action S.3, modified)
PH-3.5 Social Support Networks The City shall support residents’ and community organizations’ efforts to cultivate social support
networks to improve community preparedness, response, and recovery from hazards and disasters
to minimize injury and loss of life. (Source: New Policy)
7. Public Health and Safety Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 7‐5
7.4 Natural Disasters
Risks from natural disasters include seismic, flooding, fire, and extreme weather events. Natural hazard risks are
lower in Kerman compared to many other parts of California. Nonetheless, mitigation of risk and disaster preparation
will ensure that residents and property are safe in the event of a disaster. In the coming decades, California is
projected to experience changes to weather and climate conditions, particularly less rainfall and increased events of
high temperature. These changes could create more risk to natural hazards in the Kerman area. The primary hazards
with the potential to impact Kerman are seismic, flood, and fire.
Seismic Hazards.
While there are no faults underlying the city of Kerman, there are a number of active faults in and around Fresno
County. If an earthquake occurred at one of these faults, significant damage to property in Kerman is unlikely, but
some groundshaking and minor damage could occur. Other seismic and soil concerns, such as landslides and
liquefaction, are not projected to pose significant risks for the Kerman area.
Flood Hazards
There are no designated flood‐prone areas in the city of Kerman, although periodic localized flooding may occur
during large storms. Stormwater runoff is managed through the city’s storm drainage system.
Fire Hazards
The City of Kerman is in an unzoned local responsibility area according to the 2007 Fire Hazard Severity Zones map.
This means that the area has not been assessed for fire risk, and it is the responsibility of the local fire district to
respond to fires in the city. The nearest assessed area is five miles northwest of the city and is designated as a
moderate fire hazard severity zone. Risk of fire may increase in the future because of less projected rainfall and
increased temperatures in the area.
Increasing Temperatures
Temperature‐related impacts from climate change are likely to include increased average temperatures along with
more frequent extreme heat days and heatwaves. In built‐up areas, surfaces such as roofs and pavement dominate
the landscape, absorbing and retaining heat during daytime hours and releasing heat at night.
To prevent the loss of life and personal property by reducing the risk and magnitude of hazards from natural and man-made hazards, including earthquakes, floods, and fires, and climate change. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal S.1 and Action S.2, modified)
PH-4.1 Hazard Mitigation Plan The City shall continue to actively participate in and implement the Fresno County Multi‐Hazard
Mitigation Plan to reduce risks from natural disasters. (Source: New Policy)
PH-4.2 Mitigation Funding The City shall continue to pursue funding opportunities to implement Kerman projects that are
identified in the Fresno County Multi‐Hazard Mitigation Plan. (Source: New Policy)
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 7‐6 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
PH-4.3 Building Regulations for Seismic Safety The City shall require all new development to be constructed in accordance with the current seismic
safety design standards at the time of initial building plan submittal. (Source: New Policy)
PH-4.4 Accessible Cooling Centers The City shall expand partnerships with non‐government organizations, churches, and businesses to
provide additional cooling centers to serve the community during periods of high heat.
(Source: New Policy)
PH-4.5 Urban Greening The City shall promote the use of urban greening techniques, such as cool pavement technology,
parking lot shading, landscaping, and other methods to offset climate change impacts and reduce
greenhouse gas emissions for discretionary development and City‐initiated projects.
(Source: New Policy)
7.5 Building Safety
A central aspect of minimizing the loss of life, injury, and property damage from seismic and geologic hazards is
ensuring the all new and rehabilitated structures are constructed in compliance with State seismic and building
standards. Regular maintenance and preservation of structures lowers costs in the long‐run and is essential for
providing a safe and secure environment for families.
To protect residents and employees from potential hazards from unreinforced masonry buildings and other substandard buildings. (Source: New Goal)
PH-5.1 Unreinforced Masonry Buildings Abatement/Rehabilitation
The City shall continue to abate or rehabilitate unreinforced masonry buildings, as defined by the
Uniform Housing Code. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy S.A.3 and Action S.A.1.b)
7. Public Health and Safety Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 7‐7
7.6 Hazardous Materials
Hazardous materials include all toxic, ignitable, corrosive, reactive, and radioactive substances with the potential to
harm to the public or the environment. An important subcategory of hazardous materials is hazardous waste. The
use, manufacture, production, transportation, storage, treatment, disposal, and clean‐up of hazardous materials and
hazardous wastes present a potential threat to the health and safety of those who are using the materials and those
who could be affected by improper or accidental release or disposal, such as nearby residents or businesses.
As of August 2018, there are two permitted Underground Storage Tank (UST) sites in Kerman. The U.S. EPA has also
identified 14 small‐quantity hazardous waste generators (between 100 and 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste per
month) and 3 large‐quantity hazardous waste generators (greater than 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste per
month) in Kerman. These hazardous waste generation sites are clustered in the industrial area south of the rail line
and along SR‐145 and SR‐180.
To protect residents from exposure to hazardous materials and wastes. (Source: New Goal)
PH-6.1 Avoidance of Natural Resources Contamination The City shall require that uses generating hazardous materials and wastes do not contaminate air,
water, or soil resources. (Source: New Policy)
PH-6.2 Location of New Hazardous Uses The City shall require that proposed activities and land uses that use, store, or dispose of hazardous
materials or wastes be located in the industrial area in the southern portion of the city. (Source: New
Policy)
PH-6.3 Emergency Preparedness Plan for New Projects with Hazardous Materials The City shall require new projects that are using, producing, or generating hazardous materials,
such as cold storage facilities, prepare an emergency preparedness plan. (Source: Existing General
Plan Action S.D.3.a, modified)
PH-6.4 Household Hazardous Waste Education The City shall support educational programs that inform the public about household hazardous
waste and proper disposal methods. (Source: New Policy)
PH-6.5 Integrated Pest Management Practices The County shall encourage and support the use of Integrated Pest Management practices to reduce
pesticide use and human health risks. (Source: New Policy)
PH-6.6 Notification of Pesticide Application The City will work to obtain notification of the application of restricted materials (pesticides applied
by spray techniques) for areas inside or within the ¼ mile of the Kerman Planning Area.
(Source: New Policy)
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 7‐8 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
7.7 Air Quality
Chronic exposure to air pollutants poses serious health risks to residents and can harm local economies by degrading
agricultural crops and other natural resources. Air quality is particularly important in Kerman because the city Is in the
San Joaquin Valley air basin, an area is covered by the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District (SJVAPCD),
which has some of the worst air quality in the nation for several reasons:
The topography of the valley as a basin surrounded by mountains has the effect of trapping stagnant or
polluted air.
The local climate, which is marked by sunshine and high atmospheric pressure, is favorable for the formation
of smog.
Increased growth spread throughout the valley, which has resulted in more people, vehicle trips, and smog.
While air quality is a regional issue, the City of Kerman has an opportunity to address air quality by reducing local
emissions, particularly by reducing automobile travel, shifting land use patterns to denser and more compact
communities, and improving the efficiency of major agricultural and industrial sectors. The City must encourage
development that will minimize vehicular emissions by providing an adequate circulation system.
To protect public health, agricultural crops, and natural resources from air pollution. (Source: New Goal)
PH-7.1 Regional Coordination for Air Quality The City shall continue to participate in regional planning efforts to meet air quality goals. (Source:
Existing General Plan Policy C, OS, P & R.A.1, modified)
PH-7.2 Agricultural Best Management Practices The City shall encourage agricultural operations to incorporate Best Management Practices to reduce
particulate emissions consistent with State and Federal regulations, such as organic composting,
using enhanced efficiency fertilizers, paving roads, limited‐ or no‐tilling, cover‐cropping, and
transitioning to electric or alternatively‐fueled agricultural equipment in place of gasoline or diesel
equipment. (Source: New Policy)
PH-7.3 Industrial Best Management Practices The City shall require industrial facilities to incorporate economically feasible Best Management
Practices and control technology to reduce PM10 and PM2.5 emissions consistent with State and
Federal regulations. (Source: New Policy)
PH-7.4 Construction Best Management Practices The City shall require new projects to incorporate economically feasible SJVAPCD construction best
management practices as conditions of approval, if the project exceeds the most recent SJVACPD
SPAL screening levels at the time of preparation. (Source: New Policy)
7. Public Health and Safety Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 7‐9
PH-7.5 Toxic Air Contaminants (TACs) and Health Risks Assessments (HRA) The City shall require new development projects that produce Toxic Air Contaminants (TACs) or
other health risks to retain a qualified professional to complete a SJVAPCD‐compliant evaluation of
all stationary source developments near sensitive receptors to determine if a project‐specific Health
Risks Assessment (HRA) would be required prior to approval. If required, the City shall require all
identified TAC risks from the HRA to be mitigated to meet current SJVAPCD TAC thresholds.
(Source: New Policy)
For Policy PH‐7.5, Sensitive Receptors are the segment of the public most susceptible to respiratory distress, such as
children under 14, the elderly over 65, persons engaged in strenuous work or exercise, and people with cardiovascular
and chronic respiratory diseases. Sensitive receptor locations are therefore defined as residences, schools, and
hospitals.
PH-7.6 Incentives for Air Pollution Reductions in New Projects The City shall provide incentives for new projects, particularly new multifamily residential buildings
and other sensitive land uses, to incorporate design features that achieve good indoor air quality
above and beyond State and Federal requirements. (Source: New Policy)
PH-7.7 Public Education and Awareness The City shall support programs that educate the public on climate change and encourage residents
and businesses to become involved in activities and lifestyle changes that will aid in reduction of
greenhouse gas emissions. (Source: New Policy)
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 7‐10 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
7.8 Noise
Reducing the impacts of excessive noise is important for the well‐being of a community. The primary source ofMost
noise in Kerman is caused by traffic on the main roadways, such as Whitesbridge Road and Madera Avenue, and noise
associated with operations on the Union Pacific rail line that runs through the south side of the city. Future noise
conditions, based on proposed development in the General Plan, areas shown ion Figure 7‐1.
The nearest active airports to the City of Kerman are the Fresno Chandler Executive Airport and Sierra Sky Park
Airport, both located about 12 miles to the east in Fresno. Kerman is located outside the Airport Influence Areas,
noise contour maps, and safety compatibility zones associated with these airports (City of Fresno 1995; 2014). NAS
Lemoore, located 25 miles south of Kerman, has five military operating areas (MOA’s) covering portions of Fresno,
Kern, Kings, and Tulare Counties. These MOA’s represent airspace that is used for flight operations and separation of
activities from NAS Lemoore. The Kerman Planning Area lies beneath the north edge of MOA A and MOA C. The
training “floors” (lowest operating altitudes) are 5,000 feet for MOA A and 16,000 feet for MOA C. Aircraft overflight
is rarely noticed in the community, and no noise impacts have been identified related to military activities.
For planning purposes, Nnoise‐sensitive land uses are generally considered to include those uses where noise
exposure could result in health‐related risks to individuals, as well as places where quiet is an essential element of
their intended purpose. These include the following uses:
residences;
schools;
historic sites;
cemeteries;
parks, recreation, and open space areas;
recreation and community centers;
health care facilities;
sensitive wildlife habitats;
motels and other short‐term lodging;
places of worship; and
libraries.
Policies guiding land use and noise mitigation for development can help manage noise from traffic and regulate non‐
vehicular sources of noise. This section seeks to preserve public health and welfare by limiting the community’s
exposure to excessive levels of noise.
To protect the health, safety, and welfare of residents by striving to eliminate or avoid exposure to excessive noise. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal N.1, modified)
PH-8.1 Tranquil Residential Areas The City shall strive to preserve the tranquility of residential areas by preventing noise‐producing
uses from encroaching on existing or planned noise‐sensitive uses. (Source: Existing General Plan
Goal N.3)
7. Public Health and Safety Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 7‐11
Existing TrafficProjected 2040 Noise Contours (Roadway and Railroad)
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 7‐12 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
PH-8.2 Noise Compatibility Standards The City shall review new projects for noise compatibility with surrounding uses. The City shall
determine noise based on the following standards:
New noise‐sensitive uses in areas exposed to existing or projected future levels of noise
from transportation noise sources shall not be permitted in areas where the noise level
exceeds 60 dB Ldn in outdoor activity areas or 45 dB Ldn in interior spaces. (Source: Existing
General Plan Policy N.TNS.1, modified)
New transportation noise sources, including roadway improvement projects, shall not
exceed 60 dB Ldn within outdoor activity areas, and 45 dB Ldn within interior spaces of
existing noise‐sensitive land uses. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy N.TNS.2, modified)
PH-8.3 Noise MitigationReduction The City shall ensure that noise created by new proposed stationary noise sources or existing
stationary noise sources which undergo modifications that may increase noise levels shall be
mitigated reduced so as not to exceed the noise level standards listed on Table 7‐1 on lands
designated for noise‐sensitive uses. This policy does not apply to noise levels associated with
agricultural operations. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy N.SNS.2, modified)
Table 7-1 Maximum Allowable Noise Exposure – Stationary Sources1
Daytime
(7 a.m. to 10 p.m.) Nighttime
(10 p.m. to 7 a.m.)
Hourly Leq, dB 50 45
Maximum level, dB 70 65
Note: 1 As determined at the property line of the receiving land use. When determining the effectiveness of noise mitigation reduction measures, the standards may be applied on the receptor side of noise barriers or other property line noise mitigation reduction measures.
PH-8.4 Acoustical Analysis Requirement The City shall require an acoustical analysis by a qualified acoustical engineer for new projects
involving noise exposure or noise generation in excess of the established Noise Compatibility
Standards above. The City shall also require an acoustical analysis by a qualified acoustical engineer
for new commercial development located adjacent to existing and/or planned noise‐sensitive uses to
ensure that noise created by new commercial development shall be mitigated reduced so as not to
exceed the noise level standards listed on Table 7‐1 on lands designated for noise‐sensitive uses. The
project shall implement the requirements identified in the acoustical analysis before the City issues
the building permit. Section 7.10 identifies the acoustical analysis requirements. (Source: Existing
General Plan Policy N.TNS.1.b, modified)
PH-8.5 Site and Building Design The City shall require projects to comply with adopted noise standards through proper site and
building design features, such as building location and orientation, setbacks, natural barriers and
vegetation, and building construction. (Source: New Policy)
7. Public Health and Safety Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 7‐13
7.9 Implementation Programs
Programs
Implements Which Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting Department(s) 2
02
0 – 2
02
5
20
26 – 2
03
0
20
31 – 2
04
0
An
nu
al
On
goin
g
A Emergency Response Plans
The City shall encourage and support responsible
agencies/organizations to regularly update all
emergency response plans to ensure that they are
current, accurate, and that relevant staff
understand its protocols. These updates shall
consider potential impacts from changes in the
frequency and severity of future natural and man‐
made disasters. (Source: New Program)
PH‐2.3,
PH‐4.1
Planning and
Development
Services
Police
Department, Fire
Department
B Hazard Mitigation Plan
The City shall use the vulnerability assessment in
the Fresno Multi‐Hazard Mitigation Plan to
identify critical at‐risk facilities and implement
related mitigation measures to reduce potential
damage caused by a disaster.
(Source: New Program)
PH‐4.1 Planning and
Development
Services
Police
Department, Fire
Department
C Buildings Abatement/Rehabilitation
The City shall identify dangerous buildings and
target them for abatement or rehabilitation,
through the process outlined in the Uniform
Housing Code. (Source: Existing General Plan
Action S.A.3.a)
PH‐5.1 Police
Department
Planning and
Development
Services
D Property Maintenance
The City shall send annual abatement letters to
property owners who have properties where
weed and debris build‐up pose a public safety
problem. (Source: Existing General Plan Action
S.C.3.a, modified)
PH‐5.1 Police
Department
Planning and
Development
Services
E Notification The City will work with the Fresno County Agricultural Commissioner to obtain routine notification of any restricted material permits for pesticides applied by spray techniques issued for areas inside of or within ¼ mile of the Kerman Planning Area to be provided to the City and Kerman Unified School District.
PH‐6.6 City Manager
Planning and
Development
Services
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 7‐14 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
Programs
Implements Which Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting Department(s) 2
02
0 – 2
02
5
20
26 – 2
03
0
20
31 – 2
04
0
An
nu
al
On
goin
g
F Community Awareness
The City will work with the Fresno County
Agricultural Commissioner to have the
Commissioner’s Office post notices of any
restricted material permits for pesticides applied
by spray techniques issued for areas inside of or
within ¼ mile of the Kerman Planning Area to be
posted to the Commissioner’s website. The City
will work to advertise the availability of this
information to residents using existing community
outreach tools and social media.
PH‐6.6 City Manager
Planning and
Development
Services
EG Zoning Code Update
The City shall update the Zoning Code to include
standards that mitigate noise through site and
building design features, such as building location
and orientation, setbacks, natural barriers and
vegetation, and building construction.
(Source: New Program)
PH‐8.5 Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
7. Public Health and Safety Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 7‐15
7.10 Requirements for an Acoustical Analysis
An acoustical analysis prepared pursuant to the Public Health and Safety Element shall:
Be the financial responsibility of the applicant.
Be prepared by a qualified person experienced in the fields of environmental noise assessment and
architectural acoustics.
Include representative noise level measurements with sufficient sampling periods and locations to adequately
describe local conditions and significant noise sources. Where actual field measurements cannot be
conducted, all sources of information used for calculation purposes shall be fully described.
Estimate existing and projected (20 years) noise levels and compare those levels to the adopted policies of the
Noise Element. Projected future noise levels shall take into account noise from planned streets, highways and
road connections.
Recommend appropriate mitigation to achieve compliance with the adopted policies of the Noise Element,
giving preference to proper site planning and design over mitigation measures which require the construction
of noise barriers or structural modifications to buildings which contain noise‐sensitive land uses.
Estimate noise exposure after the prescribed mitigation measures have been implemented.
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 7‐16 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
Please see the next page.
Public Facilties and Services
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 8‐1
8This element provides the framework for decision‐making concerning public and private infrastructure, utilities, and
services. Existing and planned development in the city depends on a complex network of public facilities and services.
Each type of facility and service has a unique set of challenges and must adapt to growth and change differently.
Goals, policies, and implementation programs in this element are organized under the following headings:
Section Title Page
8.1 Essential Public Facilities and Services ....................................................................................... 8‐2
8.2 Water ......................................................................................................................................... 8‐3
8.3 Infrastructure Funding ............................................................................................................... 8‐4
8.4 Sustainable and Resilient Community ....................................................................................... 8‐5
8.5 Implementation Programs ......................................................................................................... 8‐6
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 8‐2 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
8.1 Essential Public Facilities and Services
The City is responsible for providing many essential public facilities and services. It is vital to the provision of those facilities and services that the City secure funding for new services and maintenance of existing facilities. The City needs to ensure that adequate resources are devoted to providing the necessary public facilities and services to meet the needs of existing and future residents and businesses. The City must be responsive to meeting service needs, while also ensuring that new facilities are strategically located to maximize use and efficiency. Construction and maintenance of public facilities also provides additional employment and the building can serve as an anchor for community development. For example, a city facility, such as a court, library, or health clinic, built in or near a downtown brings additional people into the area who will shop and eat, thereby enhancing the business and commercial operations in the downtown.
To provide quality public facilities and services that enhance social opportunities and quality of life. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal LU.6, modified)
PFS-1.1 Equitable Provision of Public Facilities and Services The City shall strive to ensure that adequate public facilities and services essential for public health
and safety are equitably provided in locations convenient to all residents. (Source: Existing General
Plan Policy LU.K.3, modified)
PFS-1.2 Adequate Public Utilities The City shall continue to require the adequate provision of gas, electric, communications, and
telecommunications services to fulfill the needs of residents and businesses. (Source: New Policy)
PFS-1.3 Integrated Waste Management System The City shall continue ensuring that residents and businesses have a cost‐effective, integrated waste
management system. (Source: New Policy)
PFS-1.4 Storm Drainage The City shall continue providing a safe and environmentally‐sensitive storm drainage system that
protects people and property. (Source: New Policy)
PFS-1.5 Storm Drainage Master Plan The City shall require new development to comply with the standards and plans contained in the
Kerman Storm Drainage Master Plan, which directs the location of new stormwater drainage lines,
mains, and ponding facilities. (Source: New Policy)
PFS-1.6 Educational Facilities and Programs The City shall continue supporting the provision of excellent schools and high‐quality educational
and vocational training facilities and programs to ensure residents have fair and equal access to
social and educational opportunities. (Source: New Policy)
PFS-1.7 Collaboration on Infrastructure Deficiencies The City shall collaborate with the County, neighboring cities, service districts, and regional agencies
on solving issues of mutual interest and concern, including infrastructure deficiencies, water and
sewer services, public safety, public roads, trail connections, and stormwater and water
management. (Source: New Policy)
8. Public Facilities and Services Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 8‐3
PFS-1.8 Location of Public Facilities The City shall locate new public facilities and expansions of existing public facilities, particularly City
Hall, in the historic Kerman townsite, when feasible. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy LU.K.3)
PFS-1.9 Regional Public Agency Offices The City shall encourage various public agencies, particularly regional agencies, to locate their offices
in the Kerman Planning Area. (Source: Existing General Plan Action LU.K.1.a, modified
8.2 Water
A quality water supply is integral for residents, businesses, and agricultural production. The City provides water
service to the community, drawing groundwater from six deep wells. Although the City is not restricted to a specific
volume of groundwater, the City is engaged in groundwater recharge projects and activities that reduce the
consumptive use of groundwater and are intended to relieve and eliminate long‐term overdraft of the Kings subbasin.
One concept which may help the city make better use of its resources is a dual water system. The primary system
would provide potable water for domestic uses from deep wells. The secondary system would carry non‐potable
water for landscaping, industrial and fire protection from surface water and/or shallow groundwater. The secondary
system would have its own mains, services, pumps, wells, and storage tanks. Preliminary planning and design of this
dual system has commenced, and several purple pipe segments have already been installed in the northeast quadrant
of the city.
The policies in this section seek to improve and protect the city’s long‐term water supply.
To ensure a quality and reliable water supply to meet the needs of residents, businesses, and the agricultural industry. (Source: New Goal)
PFS-2.1 Water, Sewer, and Storm Drainage Infrastructure The City shall continue to install and upgrade water, sewer, and storm drainage infrastructure to
meet current and projected growth demand, as well as current water quality standards. (Source:
Existing General Plan Policy LU.K.4, modified)
PFS-2.2 Secondary Water Supply System The City shall pursue a secondary water supply system that is effective and cost‐efficient to service
urban‐level development. (Source: Existing General Plan Goal LU.7, modified)
PFS-2.3 Wastewater from New Industrial Development The City shall discourage industrial uses that are high water users and that that generate high
strength wastewater, unless the industrial use can mitigate this adverse impact through ample fees,
investment in public infrastructure, and/or pretreatment of its wastewater. (Source: Existing General
Plan Policy LU.H.2 and LU.H.3, modified)
PFS-2.4 Kerman Wastewater Treatment Plant The City should preclude the intrusion of any land uses that are incompatible with operation of the
Kerman Waste Water Treatment Plant. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy LU.K.2)
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 8‐4 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
PFS-2.5 Pollutants from Water Run-off During the development review process, the City shall require new development to provide facilities
and/or measures to reduce pollutants in water run‐off prior to entering the city’s stormwater
collection system. Options could include bioswales and other best management practices currently
available at time of development. (Source: New Policy)
PFS-2.6 Water Service to Disadvantaged Communities The City shall explore opportunities to connect and provide water service to nearby and small
disadvantaged communities that lack reliable access to safe and clean public water. The City shall
seek financial assistance from the State Water Resources Control Board to fund these efforts.
(Source: New Policy)
PFS-2.7 North Kings Groundwater Sustainable Agency The City shall continue to be a member of the North Kings Groundwater Sustainable Agency (NKGSA)
and work closely with the NKGSA to develop the Sustainable Groundwater Management Plan for
Kerman and the North Kings region. (Source: New Policy)
8.3 Infrastructure Funding
Funding is inherent to the provision of public facilities and services. Providing the necessary public facilities and services to meet the needs of existing and future residents and businesses is vital for a safe and prosperous city. The City must be responsive to meeting existing service needs, while also ensuring that new facilities are strategically located to maximize use and efficiency.
To secure ample and predictable funding to maintain and upgrade infrastructure. (Source: New Goal)
PFS-3.1 Development Impact Fees During the development review process, the City shall require new development to pay its fair share
of community improvements proportional to its additional need through impact fees, assessment
districts, and other mechanisms. (Source: New Policy)
PFS-3.2 Maximize Funding Resources The City shall maximize the use of Federal, State, regional, local, and private funding resources,
including leveraging grants to secure additional funding, to address infrastructure and service needs.
(Source: New Policy)
PFS-3.3 Landscape and Lighting Districts The City shall consider landscape and lighting districts to maintain parkways and landscaped
medians. (Source: Existing General Plan Policy C, OS, P & R.G.5, modified)
PFS-3.4 State Loans and Grants The City of Kerman should encourage the State to provide “no interest” loans or grants for
municipalities to finance infrastructure improvements. (Source: Existing General Plan Action LU.I.7.f,
modified)
8. Public Facilities and Services Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 8‐5
8.4 Sustainable and Resilient MunicipalityCommunity
The City is dedicated to investing in renewable energy to promote efficiency and economic vitality. Efficient energy
technology and practices minimize costs and environmental impacts. Secure energy infrastructure that is resilient to
changing climate conditions is essential for public safety and overall quality of life for future generations. The City is
also interested in other design and project components that will enhance the sustainability and resiliency of the
community. This section focuses on becoming a leader in energy efficiency through new projects and enhancements
to City operations.
To support and invest in efficient energy practices at City facilities and events. (Source: New Goal)
PFS-4.1 Efficient City Operation and Maintenance The City shall operate and maintain City facilities in an efficient manner that meets community needs
while conserving financial and natural resources. (Source: New Policy)
PFS-4.2 Energy Efficient Facility Retrofits and Expansions When retrofitting or expanding infrastructure and City facilities, the City shall prioritize energy
efficiency and water conservation as key design features. (Source: New Policy)
PFS-4.3 Recycling Receptacles and Biodegradable/Recycled-Materials Products At City facilities and events, the City shall increase the availability of recycling and composting
receptacles and use biodegradable or recycled‐material products instead of single‐use plastic
products. (Source: New Policy)
PFS-4.4 Solid Waste Reduction The City shall support and promote solid waste reduction, recycling, and composting efforts,
including food waste reduction, to meet solid waste disposal target rates for the City of Kerman of
3.7 pounds per resident per day and 12.1 pounds per employee per day consistent with Senate
Bill 1016, or as amended.to achieve an 80 percent diversion rate by 2025 and a 90 percent diversion
rate by 2040. (Source: New Policy)
PFS-4.5 Electric Vehicle Charging Stations The City shall support the installation of electric vehicle charging stations, where feasible, at city
facilities, parking lots, and as part of new development. (Source: New Policy)
PFS-4.6 Permeable Pavement The City shall encourage the use of permeable paving and other passive drainage features, such as
bioswales, as part of new roadways and discretionary developments in order to enhance
groundwater recharge. (Source: New Policy)
PFS-4.7 Infrastructure Resiliency The City shall work with Fresno County and local utility providers to seek funding to develop
infrastructure resiliency. (Source: New Policy)
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 8‐6 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
8.5 Implementation Programs
Programs
Implements Which Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting Department(s) 2
02
0 – 2
02
5
20
26 – 2
03
0
20
31 – 2
04
0
An
nu
al
On
goin
g
A Water, Sewer, and Storm Drainage Master Plans
The City shall review the water, sewer, and storm
drainage master plans every five years to ensure
that they can properly and efficiently serve future
development. (Source: Existing General Plan
Action LU.K.4.a, modified)
PFS‐1.1,
PFS‐1.3,
PFS‐1.4,
PFS‐1.7,
PFS‐2.1
Public Works
N/A
B Parallel Storm Drainage Line Along California
Avenue
The City shall construct a parallel storm drainage
line along California Avenue to prevent flooding.
(Source: Fresno County Multi‐Hazard Mitigation
Plan, F.5.3.2)
PFS‐1.4 Public Works
N/A
C Capital Improvement Program
The City shall prepare a 20‐year capital
improvement program for Kerman’s industrial
park. This document shall include details on the
location, size, and financing strategy for capital
improvements. (Source: Existing General Plan
Action LU.I.7.b, modified)
PFS‐2.1
Public Works
N/A
D Development Impact Fees
The City shall review water, sewer, and storm
drainage development impact fees on a bi‐annual
basis. This review should focus on the relationship
between the amount of fees being collected for
each system and the future capital needs of each
system based on development trends in Kerman,
including but not limited to mitigation for
polluting sources. (Source: Existing General Plan
Action LU.K.4.b, modified)
PFS‐2.5,
PFS‐3.1
Public Works
N/A
E State and Federal Grants for Infrastructure
Improvements
As reasonably available, Tthe City shall apply for
State and Federal grants to install infrastructure
improvements throughout the industrial park.
(Source: Existing General Plan Action LU.I.7.e,
modified)
PFS‐3.2,
PFS‐3.4
Planning and
Development
Services
N/A
8. Public Facilities and Services Element
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 8‐7
Programs
Implements Which Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting Department(s) 2
02
0 – 2
02
5
20
26 – 2
03
0
20
31 – 2
04
0
An
nu
al
On
goin
g
F Alternative Water Landscaping Feasibility Study
The City should prepare a feasibility study to
consider the benefits of the Fresno Irrigation
District providing water to common landscapes
areas of new development. The study should also
consider the use of wells with non‐potable water.
(Source: Existing General Plan Action LU.K.4.a,
modified)
PFS‐3.3 Public Works
N/A
G Diversion Programs Increase
The City shall increase the number of diversion
programs available to residents in Kerman to
reduce the per capita rates for residents to at or
below the target disposal rate of 3.7 pounds per
resident per day. The City shall also continue to
monitor disposal rates to ensure compliance with
SB 1016. (Source: New Program)
PFS‐4.4 Public Works
N/A
Hearing Draft Policy Document
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Glossary
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 9‐1
9 Acres, Net. The portion of a site that can be built upon.
The following generally are not included in the net
acreage of a site: public or private road rights‐of‐way,
easements, public open space, and flood ways.
Adaptation. The adjustment of natural or human
systems to a new or changing environment.
Adaptive Reuse. The practice of converting obsolete or
historic buildings from their original or most recent use
to a new use.
Adjudication. With regard to water rights, a legal
decision that allocates water to parties in proceedings
and is overseen by a court‐appointed watermaster.
Accessibility/Accessible. A term that describes the
usability of a facility, product or service by people with
disabilities.
Accessory Building or Use. An activity or structure on a
property that is incidental and subordinate to the main
use of a site. For example, a small business office within
a store might be considered an accessory use.
Acres, Gross. The entire acreage of a site, including but
not limited to easements, streets and rights‐of‐way.
Acres, Net. The portion of a site that can actually be
built upon. The following generally are not included in
the net acreage of a site: public or private road rights‐
of‐way, easements, public open space, and flood ways.
Adaptation. The adjustment of natural or human
systems to a new or changing environment.
Adaptive Reuse. The practice of converting obsolete or
historic buildings from their original or most recent use
to a new use.
Adjudication. With regard to water rights, a legal
decision that allocates water to parties in proceedings
and is overseen by a court‐appointed watermaster.
Adverse Impact. A negative consequence for the
physical, social, or economic environment resulting
from an action or project.
Aesthetics. Regarding viewpoints and landscapes,
refers to the visual resource and appeal due to
characteristics such as lighting, setting conformance,
architectural style, color, openness, or perspectival
intent.
Affordable Housing. Housing that is capable of being
purchased or rented by persons whose income level is
categorized as very low, low, or moderate within
standards set by the California Department of Housing
and Community Development or the U.S. Department
of Housing and Urban Development.
Air Basin. A geographic area that exhibits similar
meteorological and geographic conditions. California is
divided into 15 air basins.
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 9‐2 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
Air Pollution. Air pollution refers to any chemical,
physical (particulate matter), or biological agent(s) that
modifies the natural characteristics of the atmosphere.
This can occur indoors or outdoors and often has
harmful health effects. Car emissions, chemicals from
factories, dust, pollen and mold spores may be
suspended as particles. Ozone is a major component of
air pollution in towns and cities, causing smog.
Ambient Noise Level. The composite of noise from all
sources; the normal or existing level of environmental
noise at a given location.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). A civil rights law
that prohibits discrimination against individuals with
disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs,
schools, transportation, and all public and private
places that are open to the general public.
Alternative Energy. A form of energy that is not derived
from fossil fuels.
Annexation. The process by which land is incorporated
into an existing district or city, with a resulting change
in the boundaries of the annexing jurisdiction.
Attainment Area. An area which is shown by monitorial
data or which is calculated by air quality modeling to be
in compliance with any national ambient air quality
standard.
Attainment Status. Attainment status for a pollutant
indicates whether an Air District meets the standard set
by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (federal)
or California Environmental Protection Agency (state).
Continuous air monitoring ensures that these standards
are met and maintained.
A‐Weighted Sound Level. All sound levels referred to in
this policy document are in A‐weighted decibels. A‐
weighting de‐emphasizes the very low and very high
frequencies of sound in a manner like the human ear.
Most community noise standards utilize A‐weighting, as
it provides a high degree of correlation with human
annoyance and health effects.
Bikeway. Facilities that primarily provide for bicycle
travel. The following are categories of bikeways:
Class I Bikeway – A bike path or trail that is
fully separated from automobile traffic. These
are generally off‐street trails and are often
shared with pedestrians and sometimes
equestrian users.
Class II Bikeway – A dedicated bicycle space
on a facility shared with vehicles. Most
commonly, these are marked bicycle lanes or
paved shoulders and are wide enough that
vehicles can pass cyclists without leaving their
lanes.
Class III Bikeway – A roadway where bicycles
and vehicles share the same lane. These are
generally indicated with signage to “share the
road” or by painted sharrows. Bicycles are
granted full right of access to the street and
are considered part of general traffic.
Class IV Bikeway – A roadway designed with
bicycle friendly features, but without striping,
pavement markings, or informational markers
indicating preferential or exclusive use for
cyclists. These features include wide curb
lands and bicycle safe drain gates.
Biological. This term refers to the life or processes of
living organisms.
Biological Resources. A general term that includes
common vegetation and habitat types, sensitive plant
communities, special‐status plant and animal species,
ecosystems, and landscape‐scale habitat linkages and
wildlife corridors that ensure adequate habitat
connectivity.
Brownfield. An area with abandoned, idle, or under‐
used industrial and commercial facilities where
expansion, redevelopment, or reuse is complicated by
real or perceived environmental contamination.
Building Coverage. The amount of a lot that is covered
by buildings, which is expressed as a percentage.
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). State law
that requires State and local agencies to evaluate and
disclose the significant environmental impacts of
9. Glossary
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 9‐3
discretionary actions and to avoid or mitigate those
impacts, if feasible.
Streamlining. Making a regulatory permitting or
compliance process more efficient or less
cumbersome. When used in reference to CEQA,
streamlining means limiting or focusing the scope of
environmental review for projects that meet certain
criteria (e.g., streamlining for infill projects, per
CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.3; or tiering and
streamlining GHG emissions analysis for projects
consistent with a climate action plan or GHG
reduction plan, per CEQA Guidelines Section
15183.5).
Tiering. Using the analysis of general matters
contained in a broader environmental impact report
(EIR), such as a program EIR prepared for a general
plan or other programmatic action, with later EIRs
and negative declarations on narrower projects;
incorporating by reference the general discussions
from the broader EIR; and concentrating the later
EIR or negative declaration solely on the issues
specific to the later project (CEQA Guidelines
Section 15152).
Candidate Species. Any species that is under
consideration for a Federal designation by the Secretary
of the Interior but has not yet received that designation
and is designated "candidate" by the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2). A naturally occurring gas that
exists in the earth’s atmosphere. CO2 is also a by‐
product of burning fossil fuels and biomass, as well as
land‐use changes and other industrial processes. It is
the principal man‐made greenhouse gas (GHG) that
affects the earth's radiative balance. It is the reference
gas against which other GHGs are measured and,
therefore, has a global warming potential of one.
City Limits. A political boundary that defines land that
has been incorporated into a city.
Climate Change. Any significant change in the
measures of climate lasting for an extended period. In
other words, climate change includes major changes in
temperature, precipitation, or wind patterns, among
others, that occur over several decades or longer.
Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL). The
average equivalent sound level during a 24‐hour day,
obtained after addition of approximately five decibels
to sound levels in the evening from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00
p.m. and ten decibels to sound levels in the night
before 7:00 a.m. and after 10:00 p.m.
Complete Street. A roadway facility that safely provides
adequate access and capacity for all modes and users
within the shared right‐of‐way.
Conservation. The management of natural resources to
prevent waste, destruction, or neglect.
Critical Habitat. A term defined and used in the
Endangered Species Act. It is a specific geographic
area(s) that contains features essential for the
conservation of a threatened or endangered species
and that may require special management and
protection. Critical habitat may include an area that is
not currently occupied by the species but that will be
needed for its recovery.
Critical Overdraft. As defined in the Sustainable
Groundwater Management Act, a basin is subject to
critical overdraft when continuation of present water
management practices would probably result in
significant adverse overdraft‐related environmental,
social, or economic impacts.
Cultural Resources. A term most frequently identified
with prehistoric (archaeological) or historic items.
These can include prehistoric and historic districts,
sites, structures, artifacts and other evidence of human
use considered to be of importance to a culture,
subculture, or community for traditional, religious,
scientific or other reasons
Day/Night Average Sound Level (Ldn). The average
equivalent sound level during a 24‐hour day, obtained
after addition of ten decibels to sound levels in the
night after 10:00 p.m. and before 7:00 a.m.
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 9‐4 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
Decibel (dB). A physical unit commonly used to
describe noise levels. It is a unit for describing the
amplitude of sound, as heard by the human ear.
Density. The amount of development per acre
permitted on a parcel based on the General Plan and
zoning ordinance.
Development. The subdivision of land; construction or
alteration of structures, roads, utilities, and other
facilities; installation of septic systems; grading
activities; depositing of refuse; disposal of any material;
dredging or mineral extraction, debris or fill materials;
and the clearing of natural vegetation except for
agricultural activities. This does not include routine
repair and maintenance activities.
Development Impact Fee. A fee that a local
government imposes on private developers, usually on
a per dwelling unit or per square foot basis, to pay for
infrastructure improvements necessitated as a result of
the development.
Disadvantaged Community. Per Senate Bill 1000, an
area identified by the California Environmental
Protection Agency pursuant to Section 39711 of the
Health and Safety Code or an area that is a low‐income
area that is disproportionately affected by
environmental pollution and other hazards that can
lead to negative health effects, exposure, or
environmental degradation.
Disadvantaged Unincorporated Community (DUC). Per
Senate Bill 244, a fringe, island, or legacy community in
which the median household income is 80 percent or
less than the statewide median household income.
Dwelling Unit. A room or group of rooms (including
sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation facilities, but
not more than one kitchen), which constitutes an
independent housekeeping unit, occupied or intended
for occupancy by one household on a long‐term basis.
Easement. The right to use property owned by another
person or entity for specific purposes or to gain access
to another property.
Effluent. A discharge of pollutants, with or without
treatment, into the environment.
Emissions. The release of a substance into the
atmosphere, including particulate matter and gasses.
Encroachment. Any obstruction or protrusion into a
right of way or adjacent property, whether on the land
or above it.
Endangered Species. A species listed as Endangered by
the State or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Generally,
any native species or subspecies of a bird, mammal,
fish, amphibian, reptile, or plant that is in serious
danger of becoming extinct throughout all, or a
significant portion, of its range other than a species of
the Class Insecta determined by the Secretary of the
Interior or Commerce to constitute a pest whose
protection under the provisions of this Chapter 35 of
Title 16 of the U.S. Code would present an
overwhelming and overriding risk to man.
Environmental Justice. According to California Code
section 65040.12, environmental justice is the fair
treatment of people of all races, cultures, and incomes
with respect to the development, adoption,
implementation, and enforcement of environmental
laws, regulations, and policies.
Equity. The fair, just, and equitable management of all
institutions serving the public directly or by contract;
the fair, just and equitable distribution of public
services and implementation of public policy; and the
commitment to promote fairness, justice, and equity in
the formation of public policy. A focus on equity
expands opportunities for betterment that are available
to those communities most in need, creating more
choices for those who have few.
Equivalent Sound Level (Leq). The sound level
containing the same total energy as a time varying
signal over a given sample period. Leq is typically
computed over 1, 8 and 24‐hour sample periods.
9. Glossary
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 9‐5
Essential Facilities. Structures or buildings that must be
safe and usable for emergency purposes after a natural
or human‐induced disaster to preserve the health and
safety of the general public. These facilities include:
Hospitals and other medical facilities having
surgery or emergency treatment areas.
Fire, police, and sheriff stations.
Tanks or other structures containing, housing
or supporting water or other fire‐suppression
materials or equipment required for protection
of essential or hazardous materials facilities or
special occupancy structures.
Emergency vehicle shelters and garages.
Structures and equipment in emergency‐
preparedness centers.
Stand‐by power generating equipment for
essential facilities.
Structures and equipment in government
communication centers and other facilities
required for emergency response.
Farmland of Local Importance. A category of the
Important Farmlands Inventory that consists of local
soils that are listed as Prime or Statewide Importance.
This farmland is not irrigated and includes such dry land
crops as beans or grain.
Farmland of Statewide Importance. A category of the
Important Farmlands Inventory that generally includes
lands with a good combination of physical and chemical
features to produce agricultural crops. The criterion is
basically like that of prime farmland but there is no
minimum soil depth limitation and no permeability
restriction. Land must have been used for irrigated
agricultural production at some time during the four
years prior to the mapping date.
Farmworker Housing. Farmworker units are occupied
by a farmworker, and his or her family, employed full
time and working on the same lot on which the
dwelling unit is located or on other land that is under
the same ownership or lease as the subject lot.
Fiscal Year. The period designated for the beginning
and ending of financial transactions, which begins on
July 1 and ends June 30 of the following year.
Floor Area‐Ratio (FAR). The ratio of allowable building
space per land area on a development site.
Food Desert. A geographic area that has limited access
to affordable, healthy food options needed to maintain
a healthy diet. The USDA defines a food desert, or “low‐
access community,” as communities of 500 people
where at least 33 percent of the community lives more
than one mile from a supermarket or large grocery
store. For rural communities, the distance is 10 miles or
more.
Food Insecurity. A condition that refers to difficulty
accessing healthy food. The USDA describes low food
security as reports of reduced quality, variety, or
desirability of the food available, with no or some
indication of reduced food intake; very low food
security refers to multiple indications of disrupted
eating patterns and reduced food intake.
Fossil Fuels. Carbon‐rich deposits in the earth, such as
petroleum (oil), coal, or natural gas, derived from the
remains of ancient plants and animals and used for
fuel.
Frontage. The frontage, or front, of a lot is usually
defined as the side nearest the street.
Geographic Information System (GIS). A computerized
tool for gathering, managing, and analyzing geo‐spatial
data. GIS analyzes spatial location and organizes layers
of information into visualizations using maps and 3D
scenes.
Goal. A statement that describes in general terms a
desired future condition or “end” state. Goals describe
ideal future conditions for a topic and tend to be very
general and broad.
Greenhouse Gas (GHG). Any gas that absorbs infrared
radiation in the atmosphere. The principal greenhouse
gases associated with global warming and climate
change that are commonly included in GHG emissions
inventories include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane
(CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs),
perfluorocarbons (PFCs), and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6).
Hearing Draft Policy Document
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Gross Acre. Amount of land, including but not limited
to easements, streets and rights‐of‐way, designated for
a particular use.
Groundwater. Water under the earth’s surface, often
confined to aquifers capable of supplying wells and
springs.
Groundwater Basin. An aquifer or system of aquifers
that has reasonably well‐ defined boundaries and more
or less definite areas of recharge and discharge. Refers
to subsurface deposits and geologic formations that
can yield usable quantities of water to a well or spring.
The Sustainable Groundwater Management Act defines
“basin” as a groundwater basin or subbasin identified
and defined in Department of Water Resources Bulletin
118 or as modified pursuant to Section 10722 of the
Act.
Hazardous Material. Any material that because of its
quantity, concentration, or physical or chemical
characteristics, poses a significant present or potential
hazard to human health and safety or to the
environment if released into the workplace or the
environment. Hazardous materials include hazardous
substances, hazardous waste, and any material which a
handler or the administration agency has a reasonable
basis for believing that it would be injurious to the
health and safety of persons or harmful to the
environment if released into the workplace or the
environment (California Health and Safety Code Section
25501). Such material may be classified as poisons,
corrosive chemicals, flammable material, explosives
and oxidizers and reactive materials or substances
when tested in accordance with the criteria in
California Code of Regulations, Title 22.
Hazard Mitigation. A sustained action taken to reduce
or eliminate long‐term risk to people and their property
from hazards and their effects.
Hazardous Waste. Any waste or combination of wastes,
which because of its quantity, concentration, physical
or chemical, or infectious characteristics, (a) may either
cause or significantly contribute to serious illness or
death or an increase in serious irreversible or
incapacitating reversible, illness (Hazardous Waste
Control Act), or (b) may pose a substantial present or
potential threat to human health or the environment
when improperly managed. These substances may be
poisons, corrosive chemicals, flammable materials,
explosives and oxidizers and reactive materials or
substances when tested in accordance with the criteria
in California Code of Regulations, Title 22.
Health. A complete state of physical, mental, and social
well‐being, and not merely the absence of disease.
Health Equity. A state where every person, regardless
of who they are‐ the color of their skin, their level of
education, their gender or sexual identity, whether or
not they have a disability, the job that they have, or the
neighborhood that they live in‐ has an equal
opportunity to achieve optimal health.
Health Disparities. Differences in health and mental
health status among distinct segments of the
population, including differences that occur by gender,
age, race or ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender
identity, education or income, disability or functional
impairment, or geographic location, or the combination
of any of these factors.
Historic District. A group of buildings, properties, or
sites recognized as historically or architecturally
significant. These may be designated at the federal
level, managed by the National Park Service, at the
state or local levels. Federally designated historic
districts are listed on the National Register of Historic
Places. In some counties or jurisdictions, historic
districts receive legal protection from certain types of
development considered to be inappropriate.
9. Glossary
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 9‐7
Historical Resources. The material and nonmaterial
expressions of human adaptations that characterized
the post‐contact or historic period. These resources
include historic event or activity sites, historic
archaeological sites, standing architecture and other
significant properties and documents and other sources
of historical information, objects of material culture,
and secondarily, the more nonmaterial cultural
qualities such as folklore, social organization, and value
systems which are associated with these properties.
Incompatible. The characteristic of different uses or
activities that are not permitted to be located near
each other because it is likely to create conflict. Some
elements affecting compatibility include intensity of
occupancy as measured by dwelling units per acre;
pedestrian or vehicular traffic generated; volume of
goods handled; and environmental effects including
noise, vibration, glare, air pollution, or radiation.
Industry. A group of enterprises that produce similar
products or provide similar services.
Infill Development. Development of vacant or
underutilized land (usually individual lots or leftover
properties) within areas that are already largely
developed.
Intensity. The actual or maximum permitted floor area
ratio (FAR) on a site or that is allowed on a site within a
designation or zone.
Level of Service (LOS). A qualitative measure used to
rate a roadway segment’s traffic flow characteristics,
and acts as an indicator of roadway performance,
relative to locally established standards for quality of
service. LOS can assist in determining when roadway
capacity improvements are needed.
Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO). A
commission within each county that reviews and
evaluates all proposals for formation of special districts,
incorporation of cities, annexation to special districts or
cities, consolidation of districts, and merger of districts
with cities.
Lot Coverage. The proportion of the gross building
square footprint (area covered by the first floor of the
building) on a lot to the net square footage of the lot.
Low Impact Development (LID). Development that
incorporates a combination of drainage design features
and pollution reduction measures to reduce
development impacts on hydrology (peak runoff flow
rates) and water quality.
Low‐Income Area. Per Senate Bill 1000, an area with
household incomes at or below 80 percent of the
statewide median income or with household incomes
at or below the threshold designated as low income by
the Department of Housing and Community
Development’s list of state income limits adopted
pursuant to Section 50093.
Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). A
Federally‐designated agency that is responsible for
regional transportation planning in each metropolitan
area. The Fresno Council of Governments (FCOG) is the
MPO for the Fresno region.
Net Acre. The amount of land designated for a
particular use, excluding easements, streets, and rights‐
of‐way.
Noise‐Sensitive Land Use. Land uses where noise
exposure could result in health‐related risks to
individuals, as well as places where quiet is an essential
element of their intended purpose. These uses include:
residences; schools; nursing homes; historic sites;
cemeteries; parks, recreation, and open space areas;
hospitals and care facilities; sensitive wildlife habitats,
including the habitat of rare, threatened, or
endangered species; hotels and other short‐term
lodging (e.g., bed and breakfasts, motels); places of
worship; and libraries.
Nonattainment Area. An area or air basin that does not
meet California or National ambient air quality
standards for a given pollutant.
Nonpoint Source Pollutants. Pollutants that wash off,
run off, or seep from broad areas of land or water.
Open Space. A parcel or area of land that is essentially
undeveloped for human use and devoted to an open
space use, such as the preservation of natural
resources, managed production of resources, outdoor
recreation, and preservation of public health and
safety.
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Organic. A labeling term that indicates that the food or
other agricultural product has been approved through
methods approved by the U.S. Department of
Agriculture (USDA). Organic operations must
demonstrate that they are protecting natural resources,
conserving biodiversity, and using only approved
substances.
Outdoor Activity Areas. Patios, decks, balconies,
outdoor eating areas, swimming pool areas, yards of
dwellings and other areas which have been designated
for outdoor activities and recreation.
Paleontological Resources. The fossilized remains of
ancient plants and animals.
Policy. A clear and unambiguous statement of a public
body that forms the basis for making decisions.
Program. An action, activity, or strategy to be taken by
the City to carry out an adopted policy to achieve a
specific goal or objective.
Public Facilities. Includes public improvements, public
services, and community amenities, as defined in
subdivision (d) ofGovernment Code § Section 66000.
Public Transportation. Travel by bus, rail, or other
vehicle, either publicly‐ or privately‐owned, which
provides general or specialized service on a regular or
continuing basis.
Rare. A plant species that, although not presently
threatened with extinction, is present in such small
numbers throughout all or a significant portion of its
range that it may become endangered if its
environment worsens.
Renewable Energy. A form of energy derived from a
natural resource that is not depleted by use and is
available as natural flows of energy and materials in the
environment, e.g. solar, wind, tide, waves, plant matter,
and by‐products of human activities.
Renewable Resources. Self‐perpetuating types of
resources; living or biotic resources and resources that
are finite in quantity but can be reused, such as air and
water. Other renewable natural resources include solar,
wind, biomass, and water resources.
Reservoir. A place where water is collected and kept in
quantity for future use.
Resilience. The ability of a social or ecological system to
absorb disturbances while retaining the same basic
structure and ways of functioning, the capacity for self‐
organization, and the capacity to adapt to stress and
change.
Safe Yield. Commonly defined as the maximum
quantity of water that can be continuously withdrawn
from a reservoir or groundwater basin without causing
adverse effects.
Sensitive Biological Resources. Sensitive biological
resources include those species, natural communities,
and habitats that receive special protection through
federal Endangered Species Act, California Endangered
Species Act, Clean Water Act, California Fish and Game
Code, Porter‐Cologne Water Quality Control Act, or
local plans, policies, and regulations; or that are
otherwise considered sensitive by federal, state, or
local resource conservation agencies.
Shall. That which is obligatory or necessary.
Should. Signifies a directive to be honored if possible.
Soil Erosion. Soil erosion refers to the removal of soil by
water or wind. Factors that influence erosion potential
include the amount of rainfall and wind, the length and
steepness of the slope, and the amount and type of
vegetative cover.
Special District. Any agency of the state for the local
performance of governmental or proprietary functions
within limited boundaries; a separate local government
that delivers a limited number of public services to a
geographically limited area. Special districts are a form
of government, have governing boards, provide
services and facilities, and have defined boundaries.
9. Glossary
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page 9‐9
Special Occupancy Structure. A category of structures
as defined in the California Building Code. They are:
Covered structures whose primary occupancy
is public assembly with a capacity of more than
300 persons.
Buildings for schools through secondary or
day‐care center with a capacity of more than
250 students.
Buildings for colleges or adult education
schools with a capacity for more than 500
students.
Medical facilities with 50 or more resident
incapacitated patients; but not including
hospitals and other medical facilities having
surgery and emergency treatment areas, which
are Essential Facilities.
Structures and equipment in power generating
stations and other public utility facilities that
are not identified as Essential Facilities and
required for continued operation.
Jails and detention facilities.
All structures with an occupancy of more than
5,000 persons.
State Highway: A numbered state route.
Special Status Species. Rare, threatened, or
endangered plant or animal species protected by
federal, State, or other agencies in accordance with any
of the following:
Federal Endangered Species Act (FESA);
California Endangered Species Act (CESA);
State Species of Concern list or Special Animals
list (case‐by‐case basis);
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
(CDFW) Fully Protected Species List [Sections
3511 (birds), 4700 (mammals), 5050 (reptiles
and amphibians), and 5515 (fish) of the
California Fish and Game Code];
California Native Plant Protection Act (plants
listed as rare, threatened or endangered by the
California Native Plant Society (CNPS); or
Section 15380 of the California Environmental
Quality Act guidelines.
Sphere of Influence (SOI). The probable physical
boundaries and service area of a local agency, as
determined by LAFCO.
Stationary Noise Source. Any fixed or mobile source
not preempted from local control by existing federal or
state regulations. Examples of such sources include
agricultural, industrial and commercial facilities and
vehicle movements on private property.
Sustainability. The physical development and operating
practices that meet the needs of present users without
compromising the ability of future generations to meet
their own needs, particularly regarding use and waste
of natural resources. Sustainability presumes that
resources are finite, and therefore should be used
conservatively and wisely with a view to the long‐term
priorities and consequences.
Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS). SB 375
requires regional metropolitan planning organizations
in California to develop Sustainable Communities
Strategies (SCS), or long‐range plans, which align
transportation, housing, and land use decisions toward
achieving greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction
targets set by the California Air Resources Board.
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page 9‐10 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
Thoroughfare. A general term to describe a road that is
either a primary arterial, a secondary arterial, or a
collector.
Threatened Species. A species listed as Threatened by
the State or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services. Generally,
any species that is likely to become an endangered
species within the foreseeable future throughout all or
a significant portion of its range.
Transportation Noise Source. Traffic on public
roadways, railroad line operations and aircraft in flight.
Control of noise from these sources is preempted by
existing federal or state regulations. However, the
effects of noise from transportation sources may be
controlled by regulating the location and design of
adjacent land uses.
Unincorporated Areas. Areas of the county outside of
the city limits over which Fresno County has direct land
use jurisdiction.
Unique Farmlands. A category of the Important
Farmlands Inventory that consists of lesser quality soils
used to produce the State’s leading agricultural crops.
This land is usually irrigated but may include non‐
irrigated orchards or vineyards as found in come
climatic zones in California. Land must have been
cropped at some time during the four years prior to the
mapping date.
Vacant Land. Land that is not actively used for any
purpose, including land that is not improved with
buildings or site facilities and is sizeable in area to
accommodate development.
Vanpool. A vehicle operating as a ridesharing
arrangement, providing transportation to a group of
individuals traveling directly between their homes and
a regular destination within the same geographic area.
Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT). A measure of the
amount of travel for all vehicles in a geographic region
over a given period, typically a one‐year period.
Wetlands. Areas that are inundated or saturated by
surface or ground water at a frequency and duration
sufficient to support, and that under normal
circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation
typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions.
Wetlands are lands which may be covered periodically
or permanently with shallow water and include
saltwater marshes, swamps, mudflats, vernal pools,
and fens. Wetlands are protected by both federal and
state law (e.g., Clean Water Act, Coastal Act).
Zoning. The division of the city by legislative
regulations into areas, or zones, which specify
allowable uses for real property and size restrictions for
buildings within these areas; a program that
implements policies of the General Plan.
Environmental Justice
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page A‐1
AAccording to California Code section 65040.12, “environmental justice” is the fair treatment of people of all races,
cultures, and incomes with respect to the development, adoption, implementation, and enforcement of
environmental laws, regulations, and policies.” Throughout California, communities with lower incomes, lower levels
of education, and higher proportions of minority residents often bear a disproportionate burden of environmental
hazards. These environmental inequities are largely a result of land use and development decisions that have led to
higher levels of exposure to air and water pollution in lower‐income communities. Environmental justice laws seek to
eliminate these inequities by ensuring that people of all socioeconomic backgrounds are treated equitably in the
development, adoption, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies. The
focus of such laws is protecting socioeconomically disadvantaged communities that are already disproportionally
burdened by remedying their burdens.
A.1 Senate Bill 1000
In response to increasing concerns about vulnerable communities in California experiencing instances of
environmental injustice, the State Legislature passed SB 1000. SB 1000 requires that general plans adopted after
January 2018 include either a stand‐alone environmental justice element or goals, policies, and objectives addressing
environmental justice integrated in other elements. The law requires general plans to do the following:
Identify disadvantaged communities within the area covered by the general plan of a city, county, or city
and county.
Identify the policies to reduce health risks in disadvantaged communities, including reduction of
pollution exposure; air quality improvement; and the promotion of public facilities, food access, safe and
sanitary homes, and physical activity.
Identify objectives and policies to promote civil engagement in the public decision‐making process.
Adoption of environmental justice goals, policies, and objectives, either in an environmental justice element or in
other elements of the general plan. This requirement is triggered by the concurrent adoption or revision of two or
more elements of the general plan on or after January 1, 2018. These objectives and policies should prioritize
improvements and programs that address the needs of disadvantaged communities.
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page A‐2 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
CalEnviroScreen 3.0 Overview
The primary tool used to identify disadvantaged communities as defined by SB 1000 is the CalEPA CalEnviroScreen 3.0
mapping tool, which was developed and continues to be maintained by California’s Office of Environmental Health
Hazard Assessment. CalEnviroScreen is a screening methodology that helps identify communities that are
disproportionately burdened by multiple sources of pollution and with population characteristics that make them
more sensitive to pollution (see details on these factors on the following pages).
Pollution Burden
Exposures: ozone, fine particulate
matter (PM, particulates smaller than
2.5 microns – PM2.5), diesel PM,
pesticide use, traffic density, drinking
water contaminants, toxic releases from
facilities
Environmental Effects: solid waste sites
and facilities, cleanup sites, groundwater
threats, impaired water bodies,
hazardous waste generators and
facilities
Population Characteristics
Sensitive Populations: asthma,
cardiovascular disease, low birth‐weight
infants
Socioeconomic Factors: poverty,
educational attainment, unemployment,
linguistic isolation, housing burdened
low income households
A weighted scoring system uses measurements
of these factors to generate the average
pollution burden for each census tract. The final
score is generated by multiplying the pollution
burden score (between 1 and 10) and the
population characteristics score (between 1 and
10) together (for a score out of 100).
The CalEnviroScreen score is not a measure of health risk but is only intended to show relative pollution burden vulnerability. A higher score indicates a greater environmental burden.
Appendix A
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page A‐3
CalEnviroScreen Indicators
Reflective of the definition of cumulative impacts, the CalEnviroScreen version 3.0 model uses 20 indicators for
measuring health vulnerability, which fall into two categories: pollution burden and population characteristics. These
two categories are further divided into four subcategories: exposures, environmental effects, sensitive populations,
and socioeconomic factors. Table A‐1 defines the groupings of indicators in the CalEnviroScreen 3.0 model.
Table A-1 CalEnviroScreen 3.0 Model Indicators
Pollution Burden
Exposures Contact with pollution
Ozone
The mean of summer months (May‐October) of the daily maximum 8‐hour ozone concentration (ppm), averaged
over three years (2012 to 2014)
Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5
The annual mean concentration of PM2.5 (average of quarterly means, µg/m3), over three years (2012 to 2014)
Diesel Particulate Matter (PM)
The spatial distribution of gridded diesel PM emissions from on‐road and non‐road sources for a 2012 summer day
in July (kg/day)
Pesticide Use
The total pounds of selected active pesticide ingredients used in production‐agriculture per square mile, averaged
over three years (2012 to 2014)
Toxic Releases from Facilities
The toxicity‐weighted concentrations of modeled chemical releases to air from facility emissions and off‐site
incineration, averaged over three years (2011 to 2013)
Traffic Density
The sum of traffic volumes adjusted by road segment length (vehicle‐kilometers per hour) divided by total road
length (kilometers) within 150 meters of the census tract boundary (2013)
Drinking Water Contaminants
The sum of the drink water contaminants and violation percentiles
Environmental Effects
Adverse environmental conditions caused by pollution
Cleanup Sites
The sum of weighted cleanup sites, including Superfund sites on the National Priorities List (NPL), within each census
tract (December 2016)
Groundwater Threats
The sum of weighted scores for sites within each census tract (December 2016)
Hazardous Waste Generators and Facilities
The sum of weighted permitted hazardous waste facilities and hazardous waste generators within each census
tract. (Permitted hazardous waste facilities was downloaded December 2016., Hazardous waste data is from 2012‐
2014)
Impaired Water Bodies
The sum of pollutants across all water bodies designated as impaired within the area (2012)
Solid Waste Sites and Facilities
The sum of solid waste facilities, including illegal sites, within each census tract
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page A‐4 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
Population Characteristics
Sensitive Populations
Populations with biological traits that may magnify the effects of pollution exposures
Asthma
The rate of asthma attacks, measured by the age‐adjusted rate of emergency department visits for asthma per
10,000 people, averaged over three years (2011 to 2013)
Low Birth Weight Infants
The percentage of babies born with low birth weights, averaged over seven years (2006 to 2012)
Cardiovascular Disease
The rate of heart attacks, measured by the number of emergency department visits for acute myocardial infarction
(or heart attack) per 10,000 people, averaged over three years (2011 to 2013)
Socioeconomic Factors
Community characteristics that result in increased vulnerability to pollution
Educational Attainment
The percentage of the population over age 25 with less than a high school education (ACS five‐year estimates,
2011‐2015)
Linguistic Isolation
The percentage of households in the census tract where all members 14 years of age or above have at least some
difficulty speaking English (ACS five‐year estimates, 2011‐2015)
Poverty
The percentage of the population living below two times the Federal poverty level (ACS five‐year estimates, 2011‐
2015)
Unemployment
The percentage of people over the age of 16 in the census tract who are unemployed and eligible for the workforce
(ACS five‐year estimates, 2011‐2015)
Housing Burdened Low‐Income Households
The percentage of households in a census tract that are both low income (making less than 80 percent of the HUD
Area Median Family Income) and severely burdened by housing costs (paying more than 50 percent of their income
to housing costs) (ACS five‐year estimates, 2009‐2013)
Source: CalEnviroScreen 3.0 (June 2018 Update), 2019.
Appendix A
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page A‐5
Kerman Planning Area Overview
Figure A‐1 shows disadvantaged communities in the Kerman Planning Area, as identified by CalEnviroScreen 3.0. As
shown, there are two census tracts that cover the entire Planning Area, which are separated by Madera Avenue. The
eastern census tract has a higher combined score (80 – 85 percentile) in comparison to the western census tract
(Tract 6019004001) in the 75 – 80 percentile. CalEnviroScreen defines the threshold for defining a disadvantaged
community as census tracts with a score at or above the 75 percentile (meaning this census tract is higher than
75 percent of census tracts in California). Table A‐2 provides a breakdown of the indicators provided by the
CalEnviroScreen model, with the combined pollution burden and population characteristics scores in bold type.
Table A-2 CalEnviroScreen 3.0 Results, Kerman Planning Area
Indicators Census Tract 6019004002 (Eastern Planning Area)
Census Tract 6019004001 (Western Planning Area)
Area Approx. 5,120 acres Approx. 5,120 acres
Population in Census Tract 7,129 7,248
Children Under Age 10 (State Average = 13%) 19% 20%
Adults Over Age 65 (State Average = 12%) 8% 7%
Hispanic or Latino 75% 66%
White 13% 26%
Asian American 9% 6%
Other 3% 2%
CalEnviroScreen 3.0 Percentile (Combined) 80 – 85% 75 – 80%
Pollution Burden (Combined) 85% 73%
Ozone 91% 91%
PM 2.5 95% 95%
Diesel PM 28% 26%
Pesticide Use 89% 88%
Toxic Releases from Facilities 64% 63%
Traffic Density 6% 10%
Drinking Water Contaminants 53% 36%
Cleanup Sites 39% 6%
Groundwater Threats 50% 41%
Hazardous Waste Generators and Facilities 77% 26%
Impaired Water Bodies 0% 0%
Solid Waste Sites and Facilities 65% 92%
Population Characteristics (Combined) 72% 68%
Asthma 63% 64%
Low Birth Weight Infants 28% 24%
Cardiovascular Disease 89% 91%
Educational Attainment 96% 78%
Linguistic Isolation 88% 52%
Poverty 80% 75%
Unemployment 39% 65%
Housing Burdened Low‐Income Households 40% 50% Source: CalEnviroScreen 3.0 (June 2018 Update), March 2020.
Individual percentiles at or above 75% are highlighted.
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page A‐6 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
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Appendix A
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page A‐7
CalEnviroScreen Factors at or Above the 75 Percentile Table A‐3 details the summary results provided by CalEnviroScreen for each factor identified at or over the
75 percentile for the Kerman Planning Area.
Table A-3 CalEnviroScreen 3.0 Results, Kerman Planning Area
Indicators Census Tract 6019004002 (Eastern Planning Area)
Census Tract 6019004001 (Western Planning Area)
CalEnviroScreen 3.0 Percentile (Combined) 80 – 85% 75 – 80%
Pollution Burden (Combined) 85% 73%
Ozone
The indicator is the mean of summer months
(May ‐ October) of the daily maximum 8‐hour
ozone concentration (ppm). This measurement
is used to represent short‐term ozone health
impacts. The data is from 2012 to 2014.
91%
This census tract has a
summed concentration of
0.062 parts per million (ppm).
Ozone concentrations in
California range between
0.026 ‐ 0.068 ppm.
91%
This census tract has a
summed concentration of
0.062 parts per million (ppm).
Ozone concentrations in
California range between
0.026 ‐ 0.068 ppm.
PM 2.5
The indicator represents the average
concentration of fine particulate matter, or
PM2.5, in the air. The data is from 2012 to
2014.
95%
This census tract has a
concentration of 14.570
micrograms per meter cubed
(14.570 µg/m3
PM2.5 concentrations in
California range between 2 ‐
20 µg/m3.
95%
This census tract has a
concentration of 14.570
micrograms per meter cubed
(14.570 µg/m3).
PM2.5 concentrations in
California range between 2 ‐
20 µg/m3.
Pesticide Use
This indicator represents the reported use of 70
hazardous and volatile pesticides in 2012‐2014.
Only pesticides used on agricultural
commodities are included in the indicator. The
data is averaged over the census tract area, and
some application may be adjacent to (instead
of within) the census tract.
89%
This census tract has an
estimated 1,021.627 pounds of
active ingredients used per
square mile.
The selected pesticides with
highest use in this tract are:
1. 1,3‐Dichloropropene
2. Trifluralin
3. Chlorpyrifos
4. Ziram
5. Hydrogen Cyanamide
88%
This census tract has an
estimated 872.677 pounds of
active ingredients used per
square mile.
The selected pesticides with
highest use in this tract are:
1. 1,3‐Dichloropropene
2. Chlorpyrifos
3. Myclobutanil
4. Trifluralin
5. Cyprodinil
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page A‐8 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
Indicators Census Tract 6019004002 (Eastern Planning Area)
Census Tract 6019004001 (Western Planning Area)
Hazardous Waste Generators and Facilities
This indicator is calculated by considering the
number of permitted Treatment, Storage and
Disposal Facilities (TSDFs) or generators of
hazardous waste, the weight of each generator
or site, and the distance to the census tract.
TSDFs data was downloaded and analyzed in
December 2016. Hazardous waste generator
data is from 2012 to 2014.
77%
This tract either contains or is
nearby 1 hazardous waste
generators and TSDFs.
n/a
Solid Waste Sites and Facilities
This indicator is calculated by considering the
number of solid waste facilities including illegal
sites, the weight of each, and the distance to
the census tract.
The data was downloaded and analyzed in
December 2016.
n/a 92%
This tract either contains or is
nearby 5 solid waste facilities.
Four of these facilities are in
the city’s industrial area (south
of railroad), and one tire waste
facility located near Belmont
Ave. and N. Madera Ave.,
which is ½ mile north of the
planned development area. All
facilities are separated from
residential areas in Kerman.
Population Characteristics (Combined) 72% 68%
Cardiovascular Disease
This indicator represents the rate of heart
attacks. It measures the number of emergency
department visits for acute myocardial
infarction (or heart attack) per 10,000 people
over the years 2011 to 2013.
89%
12.06 people per 10,000 in this
census tract visited the
emergency department for a
heart attack.
91%
12.47 people per 10,000 in this
census tract visited the
emergency department for a
heart attack.
Educational Attainment
The low education indicator measures the
percentage of adults over 25 in the census tract
with less than a high school education. The data
is from 2011 to 2015.
96%
54 percent of adults in this
census tract have less than a
high school education.
78%
31 percent of adults in this
census tract have less than a
high school education.
Appendix A
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page A‐9
Indicators Census Tract 6019004002 (Eastern Planning Area)
Census Tract 6019004001 (Western Planning Area)
Linguistic Isolation
The linguistic isolation indicator measures the
percentage of households in the census tract
where no one over 14 speaks English well. The
data is from 2011 to 2015.
88%
23 percent of households in
this census tract do not speak
English well. Approximately
2,335 people in this census
tract do not speak English well.
The top three languages
spoken besides English are:
1. Spanish (~2019 people)
2. Other Indic (~211 people)
3. Tagalog (~41 people)
n/a
Poverty
The poverty indicator measures the percentage
of people in the census tract living below twice
the federal poverty level. Twice the poverty
level is used due to the high cost of living in
California. The data is from 2011 to 2015.
80%
56 percent of people in this
census tract are living below
twice the federal poverty level.
75%
52 percent of people in this
census tract are living below
twice the federal poverty level.
Source: CalEnviroScreen 3.0 (June 2018 Update), March 2020.
Individual percentiles at or above 75% are highlighted.
A.2 Senate Bill 244 and Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities
The State Legislature passed SB 244 (Wolk) in 2011 and later amended with clarifying language in 2012 (SB 1090).
According to the Governor's Office of Planning and Research's (OPR) Technical Advisory for SB 244: Land Use, General
Plans, and Disadvantaged Communities, the purpose of this legislation is to identify disadvantaged communities
underserved by public water, sewer and other services and “…to begin to address the complex legal, financial, and
political barriers that contribute to regional inequity and infrastructure deficits within disadvantaged unincorporated
communities.”
SB 244 defines a disadvantaged unincorporated community as a place that meets the following criteria:
Contains 10 or more dwelling units in close proximity to one another;
Is either within a city Sphere of Influence (SOI), is an island within a city boundary, or is geographically isolated
and has existed for more than 50 years; and
Has a median household income that is 80 percent or less than the statewide median household income.
Fresno County used the OPR Technical Advisory memo and methodological guidance prepared by PolicyLink in
collaboration with California Rural Legal Assistance to identify disadvantaged unincorporated communities. The
County measured low‐income status as 80 percent or less than the statewide median household income of $61,489
(using the 2010‐2014 American Community Survey), which is $48,706 or less.
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page A‐10 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
While there are no unincorporated
within the city of Kerman (an
unincorporated island) or within the
Planning Area (fringe area
communities), the Draft Fresno County
2040 General Plan identifies a
disadvantaged unincorporated
community (DUC) directly to the south
of the city’s SOI. The Madera Avenue
Community is relevant to the City of
Kerman’s General Plan because it is
relatively geographically isolated and
the City of Kerman provides the area
with water service.
As noted in the Draft Fresno County
2040 General Plan, Madera Avenue
Community is located between North
Avenue and Jensen Avenue The
community includes 27 parcels totaling approximately 22 acres. There is no community wastewater system in place
and septic tanks are used by residents of this community for wastewater disposal. There is no storm drainage system
for the community and roadside ditches are used to manage stormwater for the area. Fire protection services are
provided to this area by the North Central Fire Protection District. The community has access to fire hydrants, and
there are no fire service deficiencies in this community.
This area is adjacent, but outside of the Kerman Planning Area and SOI. While development in adjacent areas in the
Kerman Planning Area are unlikely within the planning horizon, the City has a relationship to this community through
the on‐going provision of water services. Relative to planning within the Madera Avenue Community and adjacent
lands south of W. Jensen Avenue, these fall under the jurisdiction of Fresno County.
Potential Infrastructure Funding Sources
There are Federal and State programs that could help address existing deficiencies identified in the communities
discussed above. Table A‐4 provides a brief summary of programs that could provide funding to address
infrastructure deficiencies in Fresno County’s DUCs.
Table A-4 Potential Infrastructure Funding Sources
Program Name Agency Program Description
Community
Development
Block Grants
(CDBG)
U.S. Dept. of
Housing and
Urban
Development
(HUD)
These grants can fund the construction water and sewer facilities, as well
as other Public Works projects.
Community
Facilities Direct
Loan and Grant
Program
U.S. Dept. of
Agriculture Rural
Development
This program provides affordable funding to develop essential
community facilities in rural areas.
Appendix A
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page A‐11
Program Name Agency Program Description
Clean Water State
Revolving Fund
(CWSRF)
State Water
Resources Control
Board
CWSRF provides financial assistance to states to fund a range of
infrastructure projects that address their highest priority water quality
needs. Using a combination of Federal and State funds, CWSRF provides
loans to eligible recipients to construct municipal wastewater facilities
and decentralized wastewater treatment systems, among other projects.
Emergency
Community
Water Assistance
Grants
U.S. Dept. of
Agriculture Rural
Development
This program helps eligible communities prepare for, or recover from, an
emergency that threatens the availability of safe, reliable drinking water
for households and businesses.
Household and
Small Water
System Drought
Assistance
Program
State Water
Resources Control
Board
The State Water Resources Control Board authorized $5 million to assist
individual households and small water systems to address drought‐
related drinking water emergencies. Funding is available as low interest
loans and/or grant based on recipient’s income and affordability.
Integrated
Regional Water
Management
California
Department of
Water Resources
The IRWM Grant Programs include funding for planning, community
involvement, implementation, and companion grant programs that
support sustainable groundwater planning and water‐energy programs
and projects.
Proposition 84 State Water
Resources Control
Board
The Safe Drinking Water, Water Quality and Supply, Flood Control, River
and Coastal Protection Bond Act (Prop 84) provides funding for capital
costs on projects addressing excessive stormwater runoff, including
projects related to the collection of stormwater, and treatment of water
to reduce contamination.
Safe Drinking
Water State
Revolving Fund
California
Department of
Public Health
The Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWRSF) program assists public
water systems in financing the cost of drinking water infrastructure
projects needed to achieve or maintain compliance with Safe Drinking
Water Act (SDWA) requirements.
State Water
Quality Control
Fund: Cleanup
and Abatement
Account
State Water
Resources Control
Board
The Cleanup and Abatement Account (CAA) was created to provide public
agencies with grants for the cleanup or abatement of pollution when
there are no viable responsible parties available to undertake the work.
Eligible entities include public agencies, as well as certain not‐for‐profit
organizations and tribal governments that serve a disadvantaged
community and that have the authority to clean up or abate the effects
of a waste.
Source: Fresno County, 2018; Mintier Harnish, 2019.
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page A‐12 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
A.3 Regulatory Setting, Terms, and Bibliography
State Regulations
Senate Bill 244 Disadvantaged Communities (Government Code Section 65302.10) SB 244 requires that each city and county must complete the Disadvantaged Communities analysis in the Land Use
Element on or before the adoption of its Housing Element. Municipalities must base the Disadvantaged Communities
analysis on available data, including, but not limited to, the data and analysis developed pursuant to Section 56430, of
unincorporated island, fringe, or legacy communities inside or near its boundaries.
Senate Bill 535 (SB 535) AB 32, the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006, charges polluters for their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, with
the funds collected going into a Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund. SB 535 requires that at least 25% of these funds go
to projects that benefit disadvantaged communities, with at least 10% going to projects located within these
communities. As air pollution is a key issue in the San Joaquin Valley and Kerman (both Ozone and PM 2.5), the
initiatives funded under this provision will work to address these items, which are regional in nature.
Senate Bill 1000 (SB 1000) The State passed SB 1000 in 2016, which requires jurisdictions to identify environmentally disadvantaged
communities and develop measures to mitigate the adverse effects. SB 1000 uses the California Environmental
Protection Agency definition of disadvantaged communities, which is based on Senate Bill 535. The definition of an
environmentally disadvantaged community is based on scores derived from CalEnviroScreen 2.0. Census tracts that
rank within the highest (worst) 25 percent of all scores are defined as a disadvantaged community.
Key Terms
The following key terms used in this chapter are defined as follows:
Cumulative Impacts. The exposures, public health, or environmental effects from the combined emissions and
discharges, in a geographic area, including environmental pollution from all sources, whether single or multi‐media,
routinely, accidentally, or otherwise released. This includes consideration of sensitive populations and socioeconomic
factors.
Disadvantaged Communities. Low‐income areas that are disproportionately affected by environmental pollution and
other hazards that can lead to negative health effects, exposure, or environmental degradation.
Environmental Justice. The fair treatment of people of all races, cultures, and incomes with respect to the
development, adoption, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies.
Bibliography
Websites California Protection Agency (CalEPA), Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA). CalEnviroScreen
3.0. https://oehha.ca.gov/calenviroscreen/report/calenviroscreen‐30. March 2020.
California Legislative Information. Senate Bill No. 1000.
https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201520160SB1000, January 4, 2017.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. www.hudexchange.info. March 2020.
Project Review
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page B‐1
BTable B‐1 describes project specific review requirements that can be applied, as appropriate to the project, to reduce
the adversity of potential environmental impacts.
Table B-1 Project Requirements
Topic Project Requirements
A
Cultural
Resources
If a potentially significant historical or archaeological resource is encountered during subsurface
construction activities (i.e., trenching, grading), all construction activities within a 100‐foot radius of the
identified potential resource shall cease until a qualified archaeologist evaluates the item for its
significance and records the item on the appropriate State Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR)
forms. The archaeologist shall determine whether the item requires further study. If, after the qualified
archaeologist conducts appropriate technical analyses, the item is determined to be significant under
the California Environmental Quality Act, the archaeologist shall recommend feasible environmental
standards, which may include avoidance, preservation in place or other appropriate measure, as
outlined in Public Resources Code Section 21083.2. Upon the City’s approval of the recommended
environmental standards, the developer shall implement said measures. The developer shall fund the
costs of the qualified archaeologist and required analysis and shall include this environmental standard
in every construction contract to inform contractors of this requirement.
If a proposed development site contains buildings, structures, or objects over 45 years of age, a
historical resources evaluation shall be prepared by a qualified architectural historian or historian who
meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications Standards (PQS) in architectural history
or history. The qualified architectural historian or historian shall conduct an intensive‐level evaluation in
accordance with the guidelines and best practices promulgated by the State Office of Historic
Preservation. All evaluated properties shall be documented in a technical report or memorandum to be
submitted to the City for review. If, after the qualified architectural historian conducts appropriate
technical analyses, the property is determined to be significant under the California Environmental
Quality Act, the architectural historian shall recommend feasible environmental standards, which may
include avoidance, preservation in place, or other appropriate measure, as outlined in Public Resources
Code Section 15064.5. Upon the City’s approval of the recommended environmental standards, the
applicant shall implement said measures. The applicant shall fund the costs of the qualified architectural
historian and required analysis and shall include this environmental standard in every construction
contract to inform contractors of this requirement.
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page B‐2 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
Topic Project Requirements
B Greenhouse Gas
Emissions
The following off‐road construction equipment measures shall be implemented, as feasible, for all
projects under the 2040 General Plan to ensure that applicable greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions‐
reducing measures for off‐road construction vehicles are implemented during construction. The
measures shall be noted on all construction plans and the project sponsor shall perform periodic site
inspections. Applicable GHG‐reducing measures include the following:
Use of diesel construction equipment meeting CARB's Tier 2 certified engines or cleaner off‐
road heavy‐duty diesel engines, and comply with the State Off‐Road Regulation;
Use of on‐road heavy‐duty trucks that meet the CARB’s 2007 or cleaner certification standard
for on‐road heavy‐duty diesel engines, and comply with the State On‐Road Regulation;
All on and off‐road diesel equipment shall not idle for more than 5 minutes. Signs shall be
posted in the designated queuing areas and or job sites to remind drivers and operators of the
5‐minute idling limit;
Use of electric equipment in place of diesel‐powered equipment, where feasible;
Substitute gasoline‐powered in place of diesel‐powered equipment, where feasible;
Use of alternatively fueled construction equipment, such as compressed natural gas (CNG),
liquefied natural gas (LNG), propane or biodiesel, in place of diesel‐powered equipment for 15
percent of the fleet;
Utilize existing grid power for electric energy rather than operating temporary gasoline/diesel
powered generators;
Use of materials sources from local suppliers; and
Recycling and reuse of at least 50 percent of construction waste materials.
C The City shall require project proponents to submit a GHG Reduction Plan as part of their application for
discretionary project approval that incorporates applicable and feasible project features and programs
to reduce project GHG emissions consistent with the California Air Resources Board 2017 Scoping Plan,
Appendix B Local Action, and as amended in the future. The City shall develop guidelines for preparing a
project specific GHG Reduction Plan. This could include the following or other actions demonstrated to
reduce project GHG emissions:
Comply with lead agency’s standards for mitigating transportation impacts under SB 743;
Allow for new construction to install fewer on‐site parking spaces than required by local
municipal building code, if appropriate;
Dedicate on‐site parking for shared vehicles;
Require on‐site renewable energy generation;
Prohibit wood‐burning fireplaces in new development, and require replacement of wood‐
burning fireplaces for renovations over a certain size developments;
Require cool roofs and “cool parking” that promotes cool surface treatment for new parking
facilities as well as existing surface lots undergoing resurfacing;
Require solar‐ready roofs;
Require organic collection in new developments;
Achieve Zero Net Energy performance building standards prior to dates required by the Energy
Code;
Encourage new construction, including municipal building construction, to achieve third‐party
green building certifications, such as the GreenPoint Rated program, LEED rating system, or
Living Building Challenge;
Require preferential parking spaces for park and ride to incentivize carpooling, vanpooling,
commuter bus, electric vehicles, and rail service use;
Require a transportation management plan for specific plans which establishes a numeric
target for non‐SOV travel and overall VMT;
Require gas outlets in residential backyards for use with outdoor cooking appliances such as
gas barbeques, if natural gas service is available;
Appendix B
April 2020 Hearing Draft Policy Document Page B‐3
Topic Project Requirements
Require the installation of electrical outlets on the exterior walls of both the front and back of
residences to promote the use of electric landscape maintenance equipment;
Require the design of the electric outlets and/or wiring in new residential unit garages to
promote electric vehicle usage;
Require electric vehicle charging station (Conductive/inductive) and signage for non‐
residential developments;
Provide electric outlets to promote the use of electric landscape maintenance equipment to
the extent feasible on parks and public/quasi‐public lands;
Require each residential unit to be “solar ready,” including installing the appropriate hardware
and proper structural engineering;
Require the installation of energy conserving appliances such as on‐demand tank‐less water
heaters and whole‐house fans;
Require each residential and commercial building equip buildings with energy efficient AC
units and heating systems with programmable thermostats/timers;
Require large‐scale residential developments and commercial buildings to report energy use,
and set specific targets for per‐capita energy use;
Require each residential and commercial building to utilize low flow water fixtures such as low
flow toilets and faucets (see CALGreen Divisions 4.3 and 5.3 as well as Appendices A4.3 and
A5.3);
Require the use of energy‐efficient lighting for all street, parking, and area lighting;
Require the landscaping design for parking lots to utilize tree cover and compost/mulch;
Incorporate water retention in the design of parking lots and landscaping, including using
compost/mulch;
Require the development project to propose an off‐site mitigation project which should
generate carbon credits equivalent to the anticipated GHG emission reductions. This would be
implemented via an approved protocol for carbon credits from California Air Pollution Control
Officers Association (CAPCOA), the California Air Resources Board, or other similar entities
determined acceptable by the local air district;
Require the project to purchase carbon credits from the CAPCOA GHG;
Reduction Exchange Program, American Carbon Registry (ACR), Climate Action Reserve (CAR)
or other similar carbon credit registry determined to be acceptable by the local air district; or
Encourage the applicant to consider generating or purchasing local and California‐only carbon credits as
the preferred mechanism to implement its offsite mitigation measure for GHG emissions and that will
facilitate the State’s efforts in achieving the GHG emission reduction goal.
Hearing Draft Policy Document
Page B‐4 Hearing Draft Policy Document April 2020
Topic Project Requirements
D Noise The following construction noise reduction measures shall be implemented, as feasible, for all projects
within 500 feet of a noise‐sensitive land use:
Demolition and construction activities shall be scheduled so as to avoid operating several
pieces of equipment simultaneously.
All equipment, fixed or mobile, shall be operated with closed engine doors and shall be
equipped with properly operating and maintained mufflers consistent with manufacturers’
standards.
Noise‐sensitive land uses shall be notified about the estimated duration and hours of
construction activity at least 30 days before the start of construction with the exception of
construction activities related to emergency work.
All construction areas for staging and warming up shall be located as far as possible from
noise‐sensitive receivers.
Temporary sound barriers shall be erected between construction sites and sensitive receivers.
Sound barriers shall be of sufficient height and length to block the line of sight between the
construction site and sensitive receivers and shall be continuous with no gaps or holes
between panels or the ground. Sound barriers shall be constructed of material with a weight
of two pounds per square foot and shall have a minimum Sound Transmission Class (STC)
rating of 28. Sound blankets may be used in place of temporary sound barriers; however, it
must be demonstrated the sound blankets meet a STC rating of 28 and shall be of sufficient
length to overlap each other and the ground surface.