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HomeMy WebLinkAbout01 - - Additional Documents - 6/14/2016S.A. Gonzales April 16, 2016 Submitted via email Ms. Claire Flynn Assistant Development Services Director City of Costa Mesa 77 Fair Drive Costa Mesa, CA 92626 RE: Comments to Draft Environmental Impact Report for the 2015-2035 General Plan Dear Ms. Flynn, The following comments are submitted in response to the Draft Environmental Impact Report for the 2015-2035 General Plan of Costa Mesa. Overall Comments to Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) The General Plan lists many projects to be constructed in Costa Mesa. There is no mention of the current drought situation in Southern California. Where is the additional water going to come from? Is it the City's position that the Poseidon Desalination plant be built to supplement the additional water to support the additional projects? The City submitted comments to the Poseidon EIR indicating that additional permits will be required. If the future growth of Costa Mesa is going to be dependent on the construction of the Poseidon Desalination Plant, these environmental issues need to be included in the EIR. Environmental Impacts 2.4 The DEIR states that the analyses determined the Project would have less than significant impacts or no impacts with mitigation incorporated in the following areas: Biological Resources 4.4A Impacts to the burrowing owl, a special status species and their habit is listed as less than significant. The guiding principles for conservation list protect and conserve natural nest burrows (or burrow surrogates) previously used by burrowing owls and sufficient foraging habitat and protect auxiliary "satellite" burrows that contribute to burrowing owl survivorship and natural behavior of owls (DFG, 2012 Staff Report). The mitigation listed in the DEIR states a focused survey shall be conducted by .... for any new development project on a vacant site of two acres or larger .....this statement contradicts the DFG staff report which states in Appendix D: Conduct at least one visit covering the entire potential project/activity area including areas that will be directly or indirectly impacted by the project. Survey Page 1 of 6 Comments to the Draft Environmental Impact Report for the 2015-2035 General Plan adjoining areas within 150 m (Thomsen 1971, Martin 1973) or more where direct or indirect effects could potentially extend offsite. Critical Habitat In a memorandum to FWS (July 6, 2005), indicates the Fairview Park as one of 3 critical habitats for the San Diego fair shrimp in the planning area. Any planning within this area is a major impact to the environment and should be protected under Section 7 of FESA. The DEIR utilizes an older document from 2000. 4.8.D Hazards and Hazardous Materials — impacts to development and persons due to building siting on contaminated properties would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated. The mitigation measure listed indicates the City has discretionary approval of these contaminated sites. To the contrary, it is the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) and the State Water Resources Control Board that has the final decision of cleanup status. The DEIR insinuates that either of the agencies would deem the contaminated property safe to use as business or residential. The outcome could also result in a deed restriction where no buildings can be built. It is premature of the City has discretionary power over these state agencies. Under the section "Defining Hazardous Materials and Wastes" says hazardous wastes are classified by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) through listing or characteristics of a waste. What is omitted is the second classification of hazardous waste known as California only (or non-RCRA) hazardous waste. The federal requirements are less stringent than California requirements. California only hazardous wastes may not be considered hazardous under the EPA. Transportation of Hazardous Materials and Waste section indicates Section 10-248 addresses truck routes. The truck routes do not exist because they must be established by a resolution of the City Council. Construction projects listed in the GPA do not take into account all the construction debris and waste transported into the City. These extra trucks will impact local noise and traffic. Hazardous Materials Transportation Act section discusses the generation, transport, and disposal of asbestos and asbestos -containing material (ACM). The DEIR states that the primary non -industrial source of asbestos exposure is the demolition or remodeling of buildings constructed with ACM. There is no discussion of South Coast Air Quality Management (SCAQMD) Rule 1403 -ASBESTOS EMISSIONS FROM DEMOLITION/RENOVATION ACTIVITIES. The purpose of this rule is to specify work practice requirements to limit asbestos emissions from building demolition and renovation activities, including the removal and associated disturbance of asbestos -containing materials (ACM). The requirements for demolition and renovation activities include asbestos surveying, notification, ACM removal procedures and time schedules, ACM handling and clean-up procedures, and storage, disposal, and landfilling requirements for asbestos -containing waste materials (ACWM). All operators are required to maintain records, including waste shipment records, and are required to use appropriate warning labels, signs, and markings. Rule 1403 requires the owner or operator of any demolition or renovation activity shall conduct an asbestos survey prior to any renovation or demolition regardless of the date of the building. Page 2 of 6 Comments to the Draft Environmental Impact Report for the 2015-2035 General Plan The presence of asbestos during construction activities will require the project to comply with CARB requirements. There is no mention of the potential existence of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBS) in construction materials. The presence of PCBs in caulking, sealants, paints, adhesives and other building materials dates from the 1930s to the banning of PCBs in domestically manufactured products in 1979. PCBs were added to hundreds of building products due to their chemical stability, nonflammability, insulating properties and high flash point. The other materials of concern during demolition or remodeling include lead-based paints and mercury - containing products. There is no explanation of how the project will deal with these types of hazardous components. There is also no mention of conducting air -monitoring during renovation or demolition to protect nearby residents or businesses and construction materials. NO IMPACT AND LESS THAN SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS Aesthetics 4.1.A, 4.1.13, 4.1.C, 4.1.D The DEIR defines Fairview Park as a scenic vista. Scenic vistas generally are large expanses of undeveloped in close proximity sot that a viewer can see the backdrop uninterrupted. The GPA makes reference to a study of placing a sports field near Estancia High School. This is in direct conflict of the definition of a scenic vista. The view will be obstructed by structures, increased lighting and glare, and additional noise. There will be additional use of utilities: communication, sewer, water, gas and electricity. These issues have not been discussed. Traffic will also be increased if a sports field is constructed. All of these items should be listed as a significant impact. The City should not build a sports field and leave Fairview Park as open space as it originally had been purchased. Air Quality 4.3.D GPA indicates the potential impacts will be addressed at the project level. The potential impacts and mitigation methods need to be addressed in the DEIR. The City has the attitude " we will get to it, when the time comes" insinuates all the proposed projects will be approved without regard to any other regulatory oversight. The DEIR does is dependent on the City and the SCAQMD to govern pollutant emissions. The DEIR does not include agencies such as CARB or EPA requirements for projects. There is no discussion of asbestos and ACM as airborne pollutants. Or the Prop 65 air pollutants from construction equipment such as internal combustion engines. 4.3 E GPA indicates there is potential to result in exposure of sensitive receptors to odors from industrial uses. Again, the impact would be less than significant with the implementation of the GPA. Page 3 of 6 Comments to the Draft Environmental Impact Report for the 2015-2035 General Plan Any exposure of sensitive receptors should include air monitoring with a toxicologist overseeing the exposure survey. Biological Resources 4.4.13 DEIR indicates no impacts to the Cottonwood Willow Riparian Forest or Southern Coast Salt Marsh habitat would occur as a result of the implementation of the GPA. Pickleweed can be found in salt marshes. The Belding Savannah sparrow, a protected species makes its habitat in pickleweed. This is a major impact to Biological Resources. 4.4.0 DEIR indicates no impacts to Section 404 wetlands in the project area. This is contradictory to the Fairview Park area and the proposed sports fields. The Fairview Park contains Section 404 wetlands. vernal pools. 4.4.E, 4.4.F DEIR indicates no impact related to conflicts between the GPA and existing policies, regulations, or standards and existing Habitat Conservation Plans would occur. See comments in 4.4.A. 4.5.A Cultural Resources DEIR indicates historical resources, archaeological, paleontological, and human remains would be less than significant with implementation of existing regulations. Many projects have be stalled or revised when relicts or bones are found during excavation. There are known archaeological sites in Fairview Park. This is a major environmental impact to the GPA and DEIR. 4.8.A, 4.8.B., 4.8.C. 4.8.G.Hazards and Hazardous Materials See comments in section 4.8.D. With additional growth of residential and businesses would interfere with the City's emergency response and evacuation procedures. Both the CMPD and CMFD have been downsized and are already working many hours because they are short on staff. Additional population will require additional public safety staff. 4.9.A ,4.9.F, 4.9.13 Hydrology and Water Quality There is no discussion in the EIR regarding additional water allotments for new construction activities. California is still in a drought. The EIR does not describe how additional water needs will be met. Unless Costa Mesa is depending on the building of the Poseidon Desalination plant, this option would require the EIR to be revised to incorporate the impacts the environment. Costa Mesa should adopt a growth policy such as Avalon on Catalina Island. No new construction is allowed unless the developer obtains a water allotment. Construction projects will create offsite flooding and sedimentation impacts and cannot be deemed less than significant with implementation of the GPA. This would also increase urban runoff and storm drain capacity. Additional runoff into the storm drain can also impact ocean sea life. 4.12 A, 4.12.13, 4.12.CNoise The DEIR indicates exposure of persons to or generation levels in excess of City standards would be less than significant with the implementation of the GPA. With additional construction equipment, how is Page 4 of 6 Comments to the Draft Environmental Impact Report for the 2015-2035 General Plan there not an increase in noise or toxic emissions? How is the noise exposure to persons measured? With increased population comes with increased traffic and noise. The DEIR states the project may cause a permanent increase in ambient noise levels higher than current levels. Yet, the DEIR states the impacts would be less significant which contradicts the permanent increase in ambient noise levels. This should be changed to significant impact. 4.13.A, 4.13.6, 4.13.0 Population and Housing. The GPA proposes increased housing and businesses. This would increase the population. The residential units that have recently been built are not affordable for most of the population. The signs that advertise multi -unit dwellings are selling on Placentia Avenue for the high $500,000. Trailer parks are being moved out so that businesses and residential units can be constructed. These are substantial impacts. 4.14.A, 4.14.13, 4.14.C, 4.14.D, 4.14.E Public Services Increased population and businesses are substantial impacts to fire protection services, police protection facilities, schools, parks, and libraries. Certain pieces of construction equipment are not allowed to be staged near receptors per SCAQMD Rule 1470. Receptor location means any location outside the boundaries of a facility where a person may experience exposure to diesel exhaust due to the operation of a stationary diesel -fueled Cl engine. Receptor locations include, but are not limited to, residences, businesses, hospitals, daycare centers, and schools. 4.15.A, 4.15.13 Recreation There is a discrepancy between the amount of open space from the DEIR and the last EIR. The current DEIR indicates the amount of open space increased without any explanation. Please provide an explanation. 4.16.C, 4.16.D, 4.16.E, 4.16.F, 4.16.G Transportation and Traffic Additional businesses and residential units would require additional parking spaces. This is a substantial impact. Please provide the reasons why additional businesses and residential units would not require additional spaces or alternative transportation. Additional businesses and residential units would also increase the traffic. 4.17.A, 4.17.13, 4.17.C, 4.17.D, 4.17.E, 4.17.F, 4.17.G Utilities and Service Systems Additional residents and businesses would increase the wastewater treatment requirements. This is a substantial impact as additional infrastructure will be required to service the new businesses and residents. Additional developments will require more water supply as the state is still in drought. See overall comments. Page 5 of 6 Comments to the Draft Environmental Impact Report for the 2015-2035 General Plan Additional residents and businesses would increase the amount of solid waste generated and the need for additional recycling or disposal sites. There is no discussion of telecommunication, electrical or gas utilities required for the increased development. Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Costa Mesa Draft Environmental Impact Report for the 2015-2035 General Plan. Respectfully submitted, S.A. Gonzales Costa Mesa Resident Page 6 of 6 GSCALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF GENERAL SERVICES Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. June 14, 2016 VIA EMAIL: CLAIRE. FLYNN(a)_costamesaca.gov Ms. Claire Flynn Assistant Development Services Director City of Costa Mesa 77 Fair Drive Costa Mesa, CA 92626 RE: Item #1, Special Meeting Agenda & City Council Agenda Report for Tuesday, June 14, 2016 - 7:00 p.m. Dear Ms. Flynn: These comments are specific to the Shannon's Mountain project at Fairview Developmental Center. The state was recently informed that the city is considering whether to increase the number of residential units for Shannon's Mountain in the Multi -Use Center designation for the Fairview Developmental Center in the 2015-2035 Draft General Plan from a maximum of 300 units at 25 dwelling units per acre to a maximum of 332 units at 40 dwelling units per acre. Since the state has not yet completed its economic analysis, the state requests flexibility in the land area and density for Shannon's Mountain, i.e. a project up to a total of 332 units at a maximum density of no more than 40 dwelling units per acre. The 9 acres listed in the table on page 4 of tonight's City Council Agenda Report is too restrictive for a project that is currently planned on approximately 12 acres. Thank you in advance for your consideration. If you need additional information, please call me at (916) 375-4009. Si MCLAUGHLIN Asset Enhancement Section Asset Management Branch Real Estate Services Division/Asset Management Branch I State of California I Government Operations Agency 707 3rd Sheet, 5th Floor I West Sacramento, CA 95605 1 t 916.376.1800 f 916.376.6219 Ms. Claire Flynn -2- June 14, 2016 cc: Minoo Ashabi, Principal Planner, Development Services Department, City of Costa Mesa Brenda Green, City Clerk, City of Costa Mesa Fariba Shahmirzadi, Assistant Deputy Director, Administrative Operations, Department of Developmental Services Marie W. Maddy, Chief, Facilities Planning and Support Section, Department of Development Services Excellence in the Business of Government http://www.wakingtimes.com/2016/05/31 /7 -ways -to -save -the -world/ "The range of what we think and do is limited by what we fail to notice. And because we fail to notice that we fail to notice, there is little we can do to change until we notice how failing to notice shapes our thoughts and deeds. " —Daniel Goleman, Emotional Intelligence "Behind every problem, there's a question trying to ask itself. Behind every question, there's an answer trying to reveal itself. Behind every answer, there's an action trying to take place. And behind every action, there's a way of life trying to be born. " N Michael Beckwith, Agape International Spiritual Center We did not ask for this room or this music. We were invited in. Therefore, because the dark surrounds us, let us turn our faces to the light. Let us endure hardship to be grateful for plenty. We have been given pain to be astounded by joy. We have been given life to deny death. We did not ask for this room or this music. But because we are here, let us dance. - Stephen King. To Members of the City Council, the Planning Commission and Staff of the City of Costa Mesa, Neighbors and other interested parties: By Linda Witt -King In a recent letter to Will Barney, President of Humanus Group (humanus.ca), I wrote the following: "I want to build a model for managing the homeless through a process starting with a hostel, then to barracks -like temporary housing and case management, then on to more permanent sustainable housing in a community that thrives on building and nurturing relationships - much like the Mobile Loaves and Fishes project going on in Austin, Texas. [ http://mlf org/community-first/ ] Costa Mesa and Orange County are ideal locations for building this model, and there are some intriguing properties becoming available as the State of California is closing down all their Developmental Centers, including Fairview Developmental Center right here in Costa Mesa. [ http://www.dds.ca.,gov/fairviewNews/ ] So I will turn my attention to actually writing all this down and re -submitting my Dragonfly Coalition project with some numbers to start with. I would also like to submit a grant request for Mercy House and for Unity of Tustin. Both organizations are well-positioned to help uplift humanity in major ways with their consciousness and their service." I propose to apply to the Humanus Foundation [Humanus.ca] for the funds needed to implement and sustain the Dragonfly Coalition Project in the City of Costa Mesa. I propose to lease the ten acre property that constitutes Lions Park, and offer a grant for the renovation of the Fire Station. We will renovate the Community Center and the Library to serve both the clients of this endeavor and the greater community of Costa Mesa at large. We will make needed improvements to the existing structures and the grounds facilities to accommodate services to the homeless and provide a supportive process for them to return to a suitable and sustainable living situation. The lease and the grants to the City of Costa Mesa will help to eliminate the current debts and relieve the necessity of having to go into even more debt to fund needed development projects. Once the project has been implemented, the benefits provided will bring added revenue and more jobs into the community. We will acquire the Fairview Developmental Center, whether purchase or lease from the State, and make whatever renovations are necessary for it to be suitable and sustainable for these purposes. We will lease the Grant Boys property to become the flagship hostel, renovate it, equip it and staff it for the long term — approximately $450,000 a year for the lease, plus renovations, operations and staff. We will create a system whereby those who have access to the benefits provided through this endeavor will identify themselves and become participants in the operations of whatever aspects of the project fits with their capacities to do so. Indeed, the registering and tracking of each resident in each of the sober living facilities - whether government-sponsored or privately -owned - will become a requirement in the contracts that govern these arrangements, holding the SLH operator accountable for the disposition of each of their clients and subject to penalties when any of their clients disappear anonymously into the neighborhoods. No more will people enroll in a sober living facility without identifying themselves to their host city and without a defined exit strategy for them to pick up and carry on once their "recovery" experience is concluded with that facility. Between the various facilities and operations involved in the carrying out of these endeavors, there will be plenty of jobs provided for those who want to work. Needed remedies: 1. 1. Create a hostel where transients and travelers can land with basic accommodations provided while waiting for more suitable and sustainable shelter to be arranged. 1.1. Acquire and transform into a facility for this purpose the 12,000 sq. ft. property on Newport and Rochester vacated last month by the Grant Boys who went out of business. 1.2. This becomes the entry point into the Dragonfly Coalition program: a) Intake to determine needs, capacities and aspirations b) Stabilize — Nourishment, Self-care, Rest • Be assigned a sleeping room with access to hygiene facilities, a place to stow their stuff • Be assigned a Case Manager • Be added to the Duty Roster as capacities permit. • Provide each client with a package of basic self care items and a clean bedroll • Provide nutrition designed for healing - a nourishing breakfast and supper: Simple, organic juices, teas, tonics, grass fed bone broths, soups • Morning and evening group exercise 2. Re -purpose Lions Park into an All Adult park; a) Build out the public lavatories so that they are clean, well -lit 24 hours a day, and in full view of security cameras b) Install a community garden and host periodic community garden/farmer's market events in the park. • Specializing in growing what are coming to be known as potent inflammation reducing relative Turmeric Root, Ginger Root, real Watercress — all essential nutrients to healing and wellness, and all are expensive and in short supply. • There is the opportunity to position ourselves ahead of the curve of a growing demand while monetizing the endeavor, providing opportunities for productive, wage earning work where it's needed the most, and providing a valuable service to the community in incalculable ways. c) Dedicate the sports field in Lions Park to become a secure location for dozens of Yurts to be erected that will serve as the first level of suitable and sustainable shelter — d) Add electrical and plumbing hook ups to hold a quantity of temporary huts for transitional living while more permanent housing can be arranged. e) Yurts have the added advantage of being easily collapsed and moved to other locations that will be developed into communities ...or even sent along with the recipient as they move on to somewhere else out of Costa Mesa, bringing their own interim shelter with them. • Authenticyurts.com • Yurts.com • Campingyurts.com • Yurtsofamerica.com 3. Develop the community center building in Lions Park into a resource center a) Utilizing some form of key card technology given free of charge or for a minimal charge in exchange for identification of the individuals needing these basic accommodations. b) Establishing and cultivating a relationship with these individuals is key to helping them lift out of the state of homelessness — and to reducing the risks to our community that are posed by the absence of these resources: • Cafeteria • Computer lab • Overnight parking meters around the park • Restroom facilities • The Yurt Yard • Fort Grant — the hostel • Water Brewery • Credit Union • Advocacy in applying for benefits that are otherwise unavailable to them without help C) Each one of the services and resources are revenue producing. d) Nearly everyone who is currently homeless or bereft of any way to sustain themselves — has some form of income, or at least would qualify for some kind of income but has no capacity to claim that support without an advocate working through the system on their behalf. 4. Arrange for those served in this endeavor to have a membership in the 24 Hour Fitness, not limited to the facility at Park and 19th, but - just as we seniors enjoy through the Silver Sneakers program paid for by Medicare - to all of the 24 Hour Fitness facilities so that those served are not tied to just this location but can move on out of the area as they begin to put their lives back together with the assistance of our community's compassionate and benevolent practical assistance. 5. Identify properties where semi-permanent pod communities can be located as an interim housing solution for as long as these economic conditions make them necessary. 5.1. Fairview Developmental Center is an excellent site for this purpose. We will acquire the property in full as it is, enfold the current residents into the remedies brought forth through the Dragonfly Coalition, update the existing structures for long term residences for the homeless and needy, utilize some of the open spaces for a community of tiny houses, yurts, etc. where its residents can achieve a measure of stability in a compassionate and nurturing environment. 6. Develop and implement a suitable and sustainable set of oversight controls for these sober living facilities, including required accountability for the people who are currently arriving without restriction into our community. 6.1. The Sober Living Homes and their transient residents are not the enemy. We can embrace the opportunities they bring to us by inviting them to register with the Dragonfly Coalition and partake in the many benefits provided. It will become a new and lucrative revenue source for the City of Costa Mesa much like real estate investors have enjoyed, only much more stable and in greater amounts, bringing jobs and more revenue into our community. 6.2. Doing so will relieve the neighborhoods of the squatting and crime that is currently a severe problem because the homeless have no place to go, no wherewithal to provide for themselves, and so they turn to crime. My request is that we work together to draw up the grant requests to Humanus to establish this needed endeavor, and to take steps to begin immediately to implement the spirit of the Dragonfly Coalition project, at least, and the actual doing of the project where feasible. I am so very grateful for the opportunity to serve our community in this way. Together we will create a model that can be replicated in other communities so that the scourge of homelessness and all that implies will soon become a distant memory. Many blessings and radiant light upon us all, Linda Witt -King Archived calls htlp:Hlandachinaglobal.com/conferences.12hp Conference Number: 641-715-3580 Access Code: 484-959# Wednesdays at 2:00 pm our time April 27, 2016 call where the "Dragonfly Coalition Lady" asks for and receives clarification on how to submit projects on behalf of existing nonprofit entities: http://landachinaglobal.com/resources/68%2OLanda%2OHumanus%2OUpdate%204-27- 2016%20(43).mp3 May 25, 2016 conference call - Dragonfly Coalition Lady comments on the sound technology being discussed and how it fits into the Dragonfly Coalition business model. Project Totals Fort Grant Water Brewery Yurt Yard Community Gardens Community Center/ Library Lions Park Fairview Developmental Center Auto Dealership on Harbor near Adams Farmers Market/ Community Garden — Events and Life Skills Education Credit Union Open Space/ Community Gardens and Agriculture Fire Station Grant Draft Budget $1,000,000 $120,000 $500,000 $500,000 $2,000,000 $4,120,000 50 $100,000,000 $1,000,000 New $1,000,000 $2,000,000 $105,000,000 30 $100,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 Number Transient $10,000,000 $1,000,000 $3,000,000 $3,000,000 $10,000,000 $27,000,000 20 of New Occupancy First year Renovations, Lease Jobs in Tax revenue lease furnishings, Operations, Revenue to Costa to the City of Acquisition cost amount equipment marketing Staffing Total City (annual) Mesa Costa Mesa $318,000,000 $13,620,000 $67,500,000 $27,000,000 $76,000,000 0 $502,120,000 $4,500,000 420 $500,000 $500,000 $2,000,000 $2,000,000 $5,000,000 $10,000,000 $1,000,000 50 $500,000 $500,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $2,000,000 $5,000,000 $1,000,000 20 $500,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $2,000,000 $4,500,000 $1,000,000 10 $500,000 $2,000,000 $1,000,000 $2,000,000 $5,500,000 $500,000 10 $1,000,000 $26,000,000 $1,000,000 $4,000,000 $32,000,000 $1,000,000 30 $7,000,000 $10,000,000 $5,000,000 $5,000,000 $27,000,000 20 $100,000,000 $10,000,000 $10,000,000 $30,000,000 $150,000,000 100 $6,000,000 $500,000 $10,000,000 $500,000 $10,000,000 $27,000,000 30 $1,000,000 $120,000 $500,000 $500,000 $2,000,000 $4,120,000 50 $100,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $2,000,000 $105,000,000 30 $100,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $2,000,000 $105,000,000 50 $10,000,000 $1,000,000 $3,000,000 $3,000,000 $10,000,000 $27,000,000 20 Note: These numbers are for example purposes only, not actual amounts. Page 1 Appendix of Authorities Kryon, a multi -dimensional voice of Creator Source - February 27, 2016 - "New Systems" - the essence of it We're going to discuss two things with you, and I'm going to show you an example of spiritual evolution in thinking. We have told you now for decades that human beings are suddenly presented with a beautiful opportunity and you're taking it. The shift in energy is upon you; it is the one the ancients have said is coming and the one that you're currently in. Spirit is enamored by what is taking place here with that which are pieces of Itself. It is so difficult for you to see the relationship; your souls are forever. Your souls are part of God, and yet when you're in the human body, we're on the other side of the veil and it's almost a test isn't it? A test to see if you can find us, wake up, find yourself, wake up. Discover God inside and wake up, and it's a real test. But the entire reason we're here is to tell you that you passed the marker of this test and you're beginning to feel results. And it's in every single aspect of humanism. We've talked about the emotions of joy, depression, suffering. We've talked about your health and healing. We've talked about your relationships to others. Now we're going to talk about your society. You can't expect to evolve in wisdom and keep the systems you have the same. And we have discussed the systems in the past. The ones that are most dysfunctional we have told you will fall first. All of this we see. We see a change in system. When the Big Pharma system falls over, the only part that's going to fall over is the inappropriate part, the part that keeps people sick for money will cease... because the humans on the planet will not tolerate it. It's an old energy, so a new system will come in its place, one that works, one that is inclusive of many things that are not included now - ones that would look at a bigger picture, ones that ask human beings what they want, or what they need [instead of asking where they came from and how can we get them to go back there]. - It's smarter and wiser. I want these things to make sense - now dear ones, this is not an indictment of any one person, any system. I'm just going to show you evolution. I'm going to present something to you that you will relate to in this day, this February day in 2016. What you are seeing right now is a change of consciousness; it couldn't be clearer. And what we have said before is that the consciousness that is being seen as changing is what human beings want today that they did not necessarily see they wanted yesterday. Because in a new light of gradual increasing wisdom, the Establishment is being seen as old, dysfunctional, not working and needs changing. I'll tell you what the system is going to be like potentially because it's in the works. It has to start fresh. You cannot change this, there are too many people involved. Appendix of Authorities Let me tell you about a new Democracy. Human beings will always have different ideas. It is the beauty, the richness of free choice. There will be those who believe an economy should work this way or that way. Through years it has tested its viability; it's tried - what fails is not used, what wins is. It's an old story. There will be those on one side of the fence or the other side of the fence. It's an old story. There will be the ones who are fighting for the roots of the earth and others are fighting for the industry of the earth; there will always be dissension, always. But what is new, dear ones, is the way you handle it. A changing consciousness, one that's really changing on this planet, doesn't have the facilities with an old energy system to handle refugees ... [or the homeless]. A few months ago, pictures of dead children on the beach galvanized the planet — and for a moment the leaders got together and collectively wept with the foolishness of it all, and the stupidity of it all. And for a moment they said, "Let them in". This is not the first time you've had dead children on the beach [or homeless souls with no place to sleep or use the bathroom ... or even just be]. In fact, I want to tell you that this is common and has been common for decades. Pictures of children dead on the beach, the boat people trying to escape the tyranny, the awfulness and the evil and the horror. This is not the first time, and yet it's the first time that there was a compassionate reaction. Now that ought to tell you, humanity is chanizinc for no other reason than a chance of consciousness, and these pictures made a difference. Homeless men with no place to go or be, juxtaposed against the view of children in the playground in Lions Park. For a moment you got to see it. And then the floodgate opened. And then the problems began, and you know what they are; I don't have to list them. But the flood was there and there were inappropriatenesses and there were the ones who would ride in with the others who had nothing to do except make trouble. There were the thieves that would come with the children. There were then the needy, ones who really needed to come, and nobody could vet them, nobody knew the difference — and they came. [Similar circumstances exist here in Costa Mesa. The sober living homes proliferating in our neighborhoods is only one aspect of a very complex set of issues.] Appendix of Authorities You know what's missing here? The Department of Compassion, a department of government that I am telling you is coming. What do you spend money on? What do weapons cost? [or sports fields] What would it cost to have a Department of Compassion that was set up to take any number of people who are escaping or say they are escaping [or homeless], and to hold them in a way that was comfortable while you checked them out and vetted them with a system that everybody cooperated with so you could weed out the fakes. It would take many people [jobs], it would take a lot of money - and it would be worth it. And there will be governments that say it's time to spend money on this kind of thing — so it will make sense. And so, those we let in make sense. Those we turn back make sense. A system of Compassion so we don't have to simply say it's broken, and shut the door [or deny any responsibility for the misery exacerbated by the enforcement of rules completely devoid of any compassion whatsoever... Have you yet removed the padlocks from the lavatories in Lions Park?] Or so we don't have to say it's broken and we let them in anyway... ...A way, a system that is compassionate and wise - and you're gonna have to spend money on it. Who ever's listening — The United States of America, [Costa Mesa] I'll tell you — produce one less submarine [or sports field] and fund this thing. And you can — and you can — and you will. This is the kind of thing that makes sense in a new world, in a new energy - governments changing. The very basics of practicalness changing because wisdom will start to prevail. There is such hope that wisdom is going to change this planet. New systems are afoot. New inventions are coming. Wisdom is coming. Peace in the Middle East is coming. The things that are broken forever in your mind will not be broken forever. This is a new time, a new day. Dear light worker, you are on the cusp of it all. And the few here and the ones listening are the ones [who will] take this kind of a message inside and become part of the wisdom that is growing worldwide, and you're seeing it on your televisions everyday. I'm Kryon in love with Humanity. I've said it before, in a black and white world color is coming. Color is coming. And so it is. Kryon.com http://audio.krvon.com/en/Kelowna-main-16.mp3 Appendix of Authorities Hamburg, Germany — Sunday, May 15, 2016 — "The Compassion Factor" Kryon of Magnetic Service: This one we're going to call "The Compassion Factor". The measurement of enlightenment of any civilization is the Compassion Factor. Is there compassion in what they do and what they plan? Are there actual structures for compassion? This is what makes the difference between a high and low conscious humanity. We've told you in a past channel what would be a good idea, and something that is going to occur, and it may not be called this, but we address the governments of the planet wherever we will channel and we will say: An International Department of Compassion should be built and funded for this planet to be compassionate to the families [and individuals] who are running from the dark side. The issue is a big one, and the reason it's an issue at all is because there's no Department of Compassion. There's no system to handle this compassionate event. What if there was? We have indicated that there are energies that [have not been experienced before on this planet]. These energies are everywhere. They are physical, they don't have a name yet. Let me tell you what they are: They are catalysts when compassion is used. If business could come together in a compassionate way, where the goals were different than simply the products and the profits - there has to be something else. There has to be compassionate action within the business structure; people have to be helped. It is brand new and when you start to see it, there's going to be something you don't expect. As soon as it is implemented in any company [there is] guaranteed success. It's a catalyst for everything a corporation would want, and nobody is doing it but a few. You're going to see more of those few, they're going to publish what they're doing and a new paradigm is starting to be seen in business. Appendix of Authorities Every time a product is sold, someone is helped. There's internal funding in the corporation for helping others. A Successful corporation will be measured not by its profits, but by its compassion factor, just like you sometimes see an ecological factor measured today. Is it a green company or is it not? Is it a compassionate company or is it not? What if compassion was something you wanted to see ... you'd be looking for it everywhere. What if you designed an economic system so that part of the way it worked helped people? We're not talking about give-away programs; we're talking about compassionate action. Wait till you see a beautiful model, an esoteric business model that starts to have more compassion than ever before. You help people without charging them, and those who you do charge are helped as well. It has to start with you. Those who will have a compassionate life are the ones that are going to have the ideas we talked about the last time we channeled, the ones who will invent compassionate economics in business, the one that will show their children what it's like to be compassionate, to light ideas on this planet for new politics, new ways for having integrity in medicine, even politics. The Compassionate Factor is coming. All you have to do is start with you. Have you figured it out yet? You're feeling something perhaps? We're all connected. WE are all connected. I speak to you from the Central Source. We've been called the Creative Energy. We are connected, you and I, because a piece of you is in me, and a piece of me is in you. The spark of the Creative God lives inside all humans. I invite you to feel it, to believe it. You're never§ alone. The love of God sits on you, ready to be part of you in whatever degree you will allow, and that's the truth of the Shift today. And so it is. [Kryon.com http://audio.kryon.com/en/Hamburg-Sunday-PM-16.mp3] § Kryon February 27, 2016 - "New Systems" - Here is where Kryon first mentions the "Department of Compassion" - htip://audio.kryon.com/en/Kelowna-main-16.mp3 Appendix of Authorities http://goldenageofgaia.com/2016/05/31 /transcript-archangel-michael-ahwaa-energy-surge-not- seen-since-earths-beginnings/ Now, leadership: There are always going to be some at the head of the parade. And they are the role models and the showers of the way, and the mentors so that, in the process of entrainment, the human collective knows which way to head. Then there is leadership in the melee of the masses, because not everyone can see the conductor at the head of the parade. So there are pathfinders and wayshowers in that general collective - and, might I say to you, that this is one of the most difficult, challenging, rewarding and important jobs that you can have. Because what you are doing is putting yourself, literally at times, in the chaos - whether it is esoterically, etherically, bi-location, inter -dimensional, it does not matter, you are putting yourself in that school of humanity - and saying, "'Let's turn this way, and that way." And as you are walking and, yes, walking with all of us, you are pointing out subtly, and not so subtly, what needs to be done in terms of building this new world. Then, there is leadership at the back of the parade. And, that is the shepherd who goes and finds the lost Iamb and makes sure that they bring it back and that all are included. ...But, what does responsibility mean? It means trust: trust in yourself, trust in each other. When you trust, what you are doing is calling forth the highest, purest part not only of yourself, but those that you are placing trust in and with. And that is the role of stewardship that is entrusted to you and entrusted to others. Now, will there be errors and mistakes, mishaps? A few. But you don't look at these as tragedies. When a mishap occurs, it is a chance to come closer together, to forge that bond of unity and community. "'Gosh! What did we do wrong? How did we misstep? How can we come together more closely in our shared mission to do it right? To do it better?" When asked about the troubles in Brazil, Archangel Michael replied: It is a very strong breakdown of existing systems. So, it is not just the people of Brazil to whom we send great support and compassion. Because, what you are witnessing, and living through, is this split. Now, we have said that many people are leaving, and that they are welcomed home with wide-open arms and great fanfare. But also what has come to the forefront, and you are seeing many examples of it upon your planet, is this friction between those who want to cling to the old third (density) regardless of the fact that it no longer exists. They believe, in their arrogance, that they can recreate it and they are not willing to let go! Now, it is past choice in that regard. We are not renewing the old third. You have a vague memory of it so that you don't recreate the old third, but it simply won't be permitted at this juncture. But see it, and send peace, and calm, and tranquility, faith and trust to these areas where you are seeing such difficult, difficult transition. It will be sorted out and it will be a very unexpected solution. So take faith, my friends. —Archangel Michael through Linda Dillon: Channel for the Council of Love City of Costa Mesa Inter Office Memorandum TO: City Council FROM: Gary Armstrong, Development Services Director DATE: June 14, 2016 SUBJECT: Costa Mesa General Plan Amendments —Final EIR— Response to Comments — S. A. Gonzales Letter On Sunday, June 12, 2016, the City received an email from Costa Mesa resident S.A. Gonzales stating that her comment letter dated April 16, 2016 addressing the General Plan Amendments Draft EIR was not included in the Final EIR. The City has no record of having received the letter via email or other means. However, this memorandum provides brief responses to her comments, attached here. Most of her comments are similar to others included in Section 10.0 of the Final EIR or are already addressed in the Final EIR; thus, references are made to the appropriate responses and sections of the Final EIR. Several of the comments raise issues applicable to development projects, not a policy document like the General Plan. In particular and as noted throughout the Final EIR, the General Plan does not involve or entitle any specific'development'activity. The EIR prepared for the General Plan Amendments is a Program EIR that broadly examines impacts associated with the long-term implementation of General Plan policies. The level of analysis differs from that generally conducted for site-specific development projects. Response 1: With regard to consideration of drought conditions, see Response A-5.2 (Irvine Ranch Water District) beginning on page 10.0-13 of the Final EIR. Future growth is not dependent upon construction of a desalination facility. Response 2: With regard to biological resource impacts, please see Responses A-1 through A-5 (California Department of Fish and Wildlife) on pages 10.0-9 to 10.0-11 of the Final EIR. At the time any project is proposed in areas that may be inhabited by burrowing owls, survey protocols in place at that time must be followed. The project does not propose any development in any natural open spaces areas and thus would not affect critical habitat for the fairy shrimp, any salt marsh habitat, or any wetlands/vernal pools. Response 3: With regard to contaminated properties and definition of hazards materials, any proposed development will be required to comply with all federal, State, and local requirements for remediation/mitigation. Per its standard practices, City staff will consult with responsible federal and State agencies as part of any development proposal on contaminated properties. Response 4: With regard to construction noise, refer to page 4.12-17 of the Final EIR. As noted, official truck routes are established by City Council resolution. Also, conditions of approval for individual development projects may have more specific truck routes established. Response 5: With regard to asbestos removal in buildings, the proposed General Plan Amendments do not involve any demolition or construction activities. However, any development project pursuant to General Plan land use policies would be required to comply with all federal and State regulations regarding asbestos removal, as well as regulations applicable to removal of polychlorinated biphenyls, lead, mercury - containing products, and other designated hazardous materials. Response 6: With regard to scenic vistas at Fairview Park, the General Plan Amendments do not propose any sports fields within the park. Thus, this issue is not examined in the Final EIR. Response 7: With regard to air quality impacts, the Final EIR concludes that impacts would be significant and unavoidable due to inconsistency with the current 2012 Air Quality Management Plan. The Final EIR lists the many policies and recommendations included in the General Plan to enhance pedestrian and bicycle circulation (and thus reduce mobile source emissions) and to reduce energy and water consumption (to reduce stationary source emissions). With regard to pollution control requirements for individual development projects, each individual development project will be required to comply with regulations imposed by SCAQMD and other agencies to address pollutant emissions and odors. Response 8: With regard to cultural resources and Fairview Park, the General Plan Amendments do not involve any changes to Fairview Park. Response 9: With regard to the need for additional emergency response personnel as the population increases, this comment does not address any impact on the physical environment associated with CEQA review. Public safety needs are examined annually by the City Council through the budgeting process. Response 10: Regarding off-site flooding and sedimentation impacts, please refer to the analysis on pages 4.9-11 through 4.9-18 of the Final EIR. Impacts were considered to be less than significant because of extensive regulations in place to prevent such impacts. Response 11: With regard to short-term construction impacts, please see the analysis on page 4.12-17 of the Final EIR. Continued application of the City's noise ordinance would reduce impacts to a level below significance. With regard to increase in ambient noise levels over the long term, the Final EIR concludes that increases would be barely perceptible (see page 4,12-13) based on widely accepted assessment criteria. Response 12: Regarding impacts on affordable housing, please refer to the Master Response 1 on pages 10.0-5 through 10.0-8 of the Final EIR. Response 13: Regarding public services, the analysis in section 4.14 — Public Services of the Final EIR concludes that the project would not have any significant impacts on fire protection facilities, police facilities, school facilities, libraries, or parks. Response 14: Regarding open space acreage, the commenter does not clarify the reference to the "last EIR." Presuming the reference is to the EIR for 2002 General Plan, please note that these General Plan Amendments involved preparing GIS maps and analysis considered much more precise than work performed over 10 years ago. Response 15: Regarding parking concerns, all new development projects will be required to provide parking consistent with requirements in Title 13 (Planning, Zoning and Development) of the Municipal Code. Response 16: Regarding wastewater treatment requirements and solid waste disposal, refer to the analysis on pages 4.17-11 to 4.17-12 and 4.17-15, respectively, of the Final EIR. Impacts were determined to be less than significant.