Item 3 - Staff Report with Attachments
PREPARED BY: JENNIFER ARMER, AICP
Senior Planner
110 E. Main Street Los Gatos, CA 95030 ● 408-354-6832
www.losgatosca.gov
MEETING DATE: 09/17/2020
ITEM: 3
TOWN OF LOS GATOS
GENERAL PLAN UPDATE ADVISORY COMMITTEE
REPORT
REPORT
DATE: September 11, 2020
TO: General Plan Update Advisory Committee
FROM: Joel Paulson, Community Development Director
SUBJECT: Review and Discussion of the Revised Initial Draft of the Hazards and Safety
Element.
BACKGROUND:
On August 6, 2020, the General Plan Update Advisory Committee (GPAC) met to review and
discuss the revised initial draft of the Hazards and Safety Element.
DISCUSSION:
Based on the discussion at the August 6, 2020 meeting, the consultants have revised the initial
draft of the Hazards and Safety Element (Attachment 1). In addition to the formal meeting
minutes for the August 6, 2020 GPAC meeting, the consultants have prepared a table
summarizing the comments received, and how they have been implemented (Attachment 2).
Any comments received by 11:00 a.m. on September 17, 2020 from Committee Members or
the public will be provided with an addendum or desk item report.
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachments received with this Staff Report:
1. Revised Initial Draft of Hazards and Safety Element
2. Comment Response Summary Table
This Page
Intentionally
Left Blank
Hazards and Safety
September 2020 Revised GPAC Draft 8-1
The Hazards and Safety Element evaluates natural and urban safety hazards in Los Gatos, both existing and
potential. It establishes policies and actions to avoid and reduce these hazards to protect Town residents and
visitors. Additionally, this Element guides the Town when participating in resolving safety issues that are regional
in character, or otherwise beyond the immediate control of the Town. [Source: Existing General Plan, modified]
This Element is divided into the following sections:
Contents
Section Title Page
Key Terms .............................................................................................................................................. 1
Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Recovery........................................................... 3
Urban and Wildland Fire Hazards .......................................................................................... 4
Geological and Seismic Hazards ........................................................................................... 8
Flood and Inundation Hazards ............................................................................................. 15
Public Health Emergencies: Preparedness, Response, and Recovery .............................. 18
Hazards and Hazardous Materials ...................................................................................... 19
Implementation Programs .................................................................................................... 21
Key Terms
100-Year Flood Event/100-Year Flood Zone. A flood event that would occur on average once every 100 years,
or that has a 1.0 percent chance of occurring in any given year. The area with this flood potential is referred to as
the Regulatory Floodplain, or 100-year flood zone, as designated by the Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA) Flood Map Service Center.
500-Year Flood Event/500-Year Flood Zone. A flood event that would occur on average once every 500 years,
or that has a 0.2 percent chance of occurring in any given year. The area with this flood potential is referred to as
the Regulatory Floodplain, or the 500-year flood zone, as designated by the Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA) Flood Map Service Center.
Earthquake Fault Zone. Earthquake fault zones are established areas around active faults where there is a
complex system of primary and secondary faults. Because most faults are not a single, clean fracture in the crust,
fault zones describe the area at risk of seismic activity beyond the fault itself.
ATTACHMENT 1
Administrative Draft Policy Document
8-2 Revised GPAC Draft September 2020
Essential Facilities. Structures, and buildings housing services and equipment that are essential to an
emergency response following a natural or human-induced disaster. 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, trauma, or other 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 other essential facilities; and
Structures and equipment in government communication centers and other facilities required for
emergency response and communications.
Fault. A fracture in the crust of the earth along which rocks on one fracture side have moved relative to those on
the other side. Most faults are the result of repeated displacements over a long period of time. A fault trace is the
line on the earth’s surface defining the fault. An active fault is one that has ruptured in the past 11,000 years. A
fault zone is the area at risk of seismic activity beyond the fault itself.
Fire Hazard Severity Zone. A mapped area that designates zones, based on factors such as fuel, slope, and fire
weather, with varying degrees of fire hazard (i.e., moderate, high, and very high).
Hazardous/Toxic Substances. Any ignitable, corrosive, reactive, or toxic chemicalagent which, after release
into the environment and upon exposure to humans, will or may cause death, disease, behavioral abnormalities,
cancer, genetic mutation, physiological malfunctions, or physiological deformations.
Hazardous Waste. An ignitable, corrosive, reactive, or toxic waste.
Landslide. The sliding movement of masses of loosened rock and soil down a hillside or slope. Fundamentally,
slope failures occur when the strength of the soils forming the slope exceeds the pressure, such as weight or
saturation, acting upon them.
Liquefaction. Loosely packed, water-logged sediments at or near the ground surface losing their strength in
response to strong ground shaking.
Quaternary Faults. Faults are ones that have been recognized at the surface and that have moved in the past
1.6 million years.
Seismic Hazards, Primary. Primary seismic hazards are those that occur as a result of the slip of a fault line
below the earth’s surface. Primary seismic hazards typically include ground shaking and motion, and surface
rupture.
8. Hazards and Safety Element
September 2020 Revised GPAC Draft 8-3
Seismic Hazards, Secondary. Secondary seismic hazards are those that occur as a result of the primary ground
shaking and surface rupture from an earthquake (primary seismic hazard). Secondary seismic hazards typically
include landslides, rockslides, tsunamis, and liquefaction.
Subsidence. The sinking or settling of the ground surface, typically related to the withdrawal of fluids (e.g.
groundwater, natural gas, or oil).
Wildland Urban Interface (WUI). Areas where homes or other structures are built near or among lands prone to
wildland fire.
Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Recovery
All municipal governments are required to prepare for natural and manmade disasters. The Santa Clara County
Operational Area Hazard Mitigation Plan (OAHMP) for the county assesses Countywide risk for natural hazards
and establishes mitigation measures, funding, and plan implementation actions for Los Gatos.
[Source: General Plan 2040 Background Report, modified]
The Town of Los Gatos has adopted a comprehensive Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) that identifies the
existing hazards within that affect the Town, provides guidance and education on for effective and skillful
emergency response techniques, and ensures the most effective allocation of resources for protection of people
and property in the event of an emergency. The Town also participates in volunteer emergency response training
programs and has volunteer coordination plans in place. [Source: General Plan 2040 Background Report]
The following goals and policies guide emergency preparedness, response, and recovery efforts by the Town of
Los Gatos.
HAZ-1
Ensure the community is prepared for health, natural and manmadehuman-
caused disastershazards and can respond quickly and effectively. [Source: New
Goal]
HAZ-1.1 Emergency Preparedness Planning
Coordinate with regional agencies and incorporate emergency preparedness into allappropriate
Town planning efforts, including plans for preparation, communications, response, providing
adequate access for emergency equipment, and evacuations in the case of an emergency.
[Source: New Policy]
HAZ-1.2 Evacuation Routes
Coordinate with Santa Clara County Fire and the Los Gatos – Monte Sereno Police
Department and incorporate emergency access and evacuation planning into all planning
efforts. [Source: New Policy]
HAZ-1.3 Agency Coordination
Participate in local and regional emergency preparedness and response efforts to represent the
Town needs and interests in regional emergency management planning. [Source: New Policy]
HAZ-1.3 Community Information and Education
Provide community hazard awareness information and education about potential health, natural
and human-caused hazards in Los Gatos and how to responsibly prepare for or mitigate them.
[Source: New Policy]
Administrative Draft Policy Document
8-4 Revised GPAC Draft September 2020
HAZ-1.4 Siting of Essential Facilities
The Town shall not site essential facilities, public safety or emergency service facilities, special
occupancy structures, or hazardous materials storage facilities in areas subject to the following
hazard areas, as defined in the Santa Clara County OAHMP, unless the structure is designed
to adequately mitigate the hazard or if no other viable option for siting is available to serve the
need identified:
Located outside the 500-year flood zone;
Located outside seismic hazard areas and fault zones;
Located outside of areas subject to liquefaction, landslide, or seiche hazards; and
Located outside of areas designated as a very high fire severity zone. [Source: New Policy]
Urban and Wildland Fire Hazards
Santa Clara County, including Los Gatos, has a high potential for devastating wildland fires. As future climate
change-related impacts, such as dry thunderstorms and droughts increase, there will be greater potential for more
frequent and more intense wildfires, along with the potential for these fires to release significant quantities of
Greenhouse Gases and particulate matter into the atmosphere. California has already begun to address these
concerns by enacting Public Safety Power Shutoffs. These shutoffs are facilitated by local energy providers such
as PG&E and are conducted when dry hot weather combined with strong erratic wind patterns leads to a high
probability of downed power lines inducing devasting fires. The power shutoffs have been the result of years of
consecutive fires caused by downed power lines in communities across California. In order to comprehensively
tackle urban and wildland fires prevention, strong land use policies and mitigation measures are necessary to
protect the health and safety of residents, to minimize the loss of life, and to minimize property damage and
damage to infrastructure.
Wildfires are a regular feature of the ecosystem in large parts of California becoming an all to regular event in
California, and both urban and wildland fires are a threat to the Town of Los Gatos. Wildfires that burn exclusively
in uninhabited natural areas generally pose little risk to lives or property, although the smoke from such fires may
cause respiratory problems for people nearby. Fires that occur along the wildland-urban interface (WUI) are
much more of a hazard, as they can spread into urbanized areas. Wildfire risk is dependent on several factors,
including the amount and type of vegetation in the area, weather, and local topography. Factors such as narrow,
winding roads and vegetation also slow response to fires, increasing risk of spread. [Source: General Plan 2040
Background Report]
Santa Clara County has a high potential for devastating wildland fires. Based on the increased potential for
devasting wildfires in Santa Clara County and the Town of Los Gatos, CAL FIRE developed and adopted on a
“Fire Hazard Severity Zone” maps. These maps highlight that developed by CAL FIRE, most of the County is
located within the “high” fire severity zone, with smaller portions of the County within the “moderate” and “very
high” fire severity zones. Figure 8-5 illustrates the fire hazard severity zones in the Los Gatos area (Source:
General Plan 2040 Background Report). More than half of the southern portion of the Town is in the Very High
Fire Hazard Severity Zone, with most of the areas to the south in the High or Moderate zones. The Town must
therefore strongly incorporate fire hazard mitigation into its land use decisions and requirements to protect
residents and property. [Source: New Text]
The Santa Clara County OAHMP, the Santa Clara County Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP), and the
Los Gatos Annex 9 of the CWPP, all include techniques for reducing wildfire risk for Los Gatos through land use
8. Hazards and Safety Element
September 2020 Revised GPAC Draft 8-5
decisions, inter-agency coordination, community programs, and emergency response improvements. These
plans work in coordination with the Los Gatos General Plan to provide a comprehensive framework for mitigating
fire risk in Los Gatos and Santa Clara County. The Santa Clara County Fire Department provides emergency
response services to the Town; further information on their services is available in the Public Facilities, Services,
and Infrastructure Element. [Source: New Text]
Administrative Draft Policy Document
8-6 Revised GPAC Draft September 2020
Fire Hazard Severity Zones
8. Hazards and Safety Element
September 2020 Revised GPAC Draft 8-7
The following goals and policies will guide the management of urban and wildland fire hazards.
HAZ-2 Incorporate fire safety precautions as an integral consideration in planning
development. [Source: Existing General Plan, Goal SAF-2]
HAZ-2.1 New Development in Fire Hazard Areas
Designate and site nRequire Nnew development located in or adjacent to fire hazard areas
shall be designed and sited to minimize hazards to life and property, by using. Utilize fire
preventive site design, access, fire-safe landscaping, and building materials, and incorporateing
fire suppression techniques. [Source: Existing Policy SAF-2.1, modified]
HAZ-2.2 Fire Safety Improvements
Encourage fire safety improvements for existing homes and commercial buildings.
[Source: Existing Policy SAF-2.2]
HAZ-2.3 Adequate Water Storage for Fire Protection
During the development review process, carefully consider the adequacy of water storage for
fire protection. [Source: Existing Policy SAF-2.3]
HAZ-2.4 Secondary Emergency Access
Provide secondary emergency access as required by the Santa Clara County Fire Deparment
that will not increase traffic for homes in areas identified as Very High Fire Hazard Areas on the
Town’s Wildland Fire Severity Zone Map. [Source: Existing Policy SAF-2.4, modified]
HAZ-2.5 Fire Buffer Zones
Desingate Fire Buffer Zones in collaboiation with Santa Clara County Fire Department between
urban areas in Town and the hillsides. [Source: New Policy]
HAZ-3
Reduce the potential for injuries, damage to property, economic and social
displacement, and loss of life resulting from fire hazards. [Source: Existing General
Plan, Goal SAF-3, modified]
HAZ-3.1 Fire Hazard Preparedness
Minimize exposure to wildland and urban fire hazards through rapid emergency response,;
proactive code enforcement, public education programs, use of modern fire prevention
measures, quick, safe access for emergency equipment and evacuation, and emergency
management preparation. [Source: Existing Policy SAF-3.1, modified]
HAZ-3.2 Neighborhood Fire Emergency Planning
Encourage Require neighborhood fire emergency planning for isolated WUI areas.
[Source: Existing Policy SAF-3.2]
HAZ-3.3 Fire Emergency Response
Ensure emergency fire and medical services and an adequate water supply are available and
ensure adequate water supply for fire emergencies. [Source: Existing Policy SAF-3.3, modified]
HAZ-3.4 Development Restrictions
Restrict development in areas with inadequate water flow or emergency access deficiencies.
[Source: Existing Policy SAF-3.4, modified]
Administrative Draft Policy Document
8-8 Revised GPAC Draft September 2020
HAZ-3.5 Flammable Vegetative Material
Monitor and control excessive buildup of flammable vegetative materials on Town properties,
on streets and along critical ingress/egress routes in the WUI, and on private properties..
[Source: Existing Policy SAF-3.5, modified]
HAZ-3.6 Utility Access
Ensure that utility providers have the ability to monitor, inspect, replace, amd move equipment
that may pose a fire hazard. [Source: New Policy]
Geological and Seismic Hazards
The San Francisco Bay Area is in one of the most active seismic regions in the United States. Los Gatos is near
several active faults including the San Andreas, Hayward, and Calaveras Faults. Figure 8-2 shows faults, most of
which are quaternary faults, within the Town Los Gatos, while Figure 8-3 shows the proximity of major faults to
Los Gatos. Ground shaking is the primary risk in an earthquake and can set off a chain reaction of secondary
landslides and liquefaction, or loss of soil strength. As shown in Figure 8-4, most ground shaking risk in Los
Gatos is in the northern half of the Town, with a higher risk area centered south of Saratoga Road and west of
Highway 17. The region around the Lexington Reservoir also has higher risk of ground shaking should an
earthquake occur. Figure 8-5 focusing on secondary seismic hazards, shows that landslides are a risk in most of
the southern and eastern portions of the Town, and liquefaction risk is centered along Highway 17. [Source: New
Text]
Seismic activity within or near the Santa Clara County region has historically caused significant damage to
buildings and infrastructure in the Town of Los Gatos due to ground shaking and landslides. Five earthquakes
have affected Los Gatos in the 20th century, with the 1906 San Francisco and 1989 Loma Prieta earthquakes
being the largest. Future earthquakes and seismic risks are inevitable, and the Town is therefore continuously
working to prepare for future seismic events and mitigate the risk to life and property that could occur when they
happen. [Source: General Plan 2040 Background Report and New Text]
Implementation of applicable building codes and geotechnical investigations will minimize potential loss of life and
damage to property from primary and secondary seismic hazards and siting essential structures and services
outside high risk areas will enable faster emergency response after an earthquake. In order to minimize seismic
risk, the Town has a responsibility to guide the location and type of new development to ensure essential (critical)
buildings and infrastructure are not located in high risk areas. The implementation of applicable building codes
and geotechnical investigations can also ensure buildings and infrastructure are developed to minimize potential
damage resulting from primary and secondary seismic hazards.
[Source: New Text]
8. Hazards and Safety Element
September 2020 Revised GPAC Draft 8-9
Faults in Town Limits
Administrative Draft Policy Document
8-10 Revised GPAC Draft September 2020
Major Faults in the South Bay
8. Hazards and Safety Element
September 2020 Revised GPAC Draft 8-11
Projected Groundshaking
Administrative Draft Policy Document
8-12 Revised GPAC Draft September 2020
Secondary Seismic Hazards
8. Hazards and Safety Element
September 2020 Revised GPAC Draft 8-13
The following goals and policies will address geological and seismic hazards in Los Gatos.
HAZ-4
Minimize community exposure to risks from geologic and seismic hazards, including
slope instability, subsidence, and expansive soils, and to seismic hazards, including
ground shaking, fault rupture, liquefaction and landslides. [Source: Existing General
Plan, Goal SAF-1, modified]
Geologic Conditions Evaluation
Require reliable evaluations of the existing geologic conditions of sites proposed for
development where conditions indicate the possibility of weak supporting soils or geologic
structures. [Source: Existing Policy SAF-1.1]
HAZ-4.1 Geotechnical Report – Seismic Hazards
Require the preparation of a report from ana geotechnical report by a qualifiedlicensed
engineering geologist and/or geotechnical engineer for new developments proposed in hazard
zones mapped by the State or identified by the Town, as shown in Figures 8-2 through 8-5 of
this Hazards and Safety Element. The report shall, that discussesidentifyies theall site
geologic, seismic, and geotechnical engineering conditions and potential hazards and include
appropriate design measures to mitigate potential fault ground rupture/deformation impacts to
acceptable levels. for developments in hazard zones mapped by the State or identified by the
Town, as shown in Figures SAF-1 and SAF-2. [Source: Existing Policies SAF-1.6, SAF-1.8,
SAF-1.9, modified]
HAZ-4.2 Geotechnical Report – Grading
Require a the preparation of a geologic and geotechnical reports by a qualifiedlicensed
engineering geologist and/or geotechnical engineer for new developments proposed and Town
review during the development review process for projects with significant grading, potential
erosion and sedimentation hazards. [Source: Existing Policy SAF-1.10, modified]
HAZ-4.3 Geotechnical Report – Construction Methods
Require the preparation of a ageologic and geotechnical reports prepared by a qualified
engineering geologist and/or geotechnical engineer for new developments proposed in areas
with identified geologic hazards. The report shall to specify construction methods to protect the
proposed project, as well as existing and future residences in the vicinity, from identified
hazards. [Source: Existing Policy SAF-1.11, modified]
HAZ-4.4 Geologic Hazard Zone Development
Require new development to be sited away from high risk geologic and seismic hazard zones,
or if located in a high-risk zone, to incorporate building or technologies to reduce risk to an
acceptable level. Restrict new development and redevelopment based on the levels of
acceptable risk and potential severity of geologic hazards. [Source: Existing Policy SAF-1.2,
modified]
HAZ-4.5 Unbuildable Property as Open Space
Preserve as open space portions of property that is are unbuildable due to geologic and
seismic conditions. [Source: Existing Policy SAF-1.3, modified]
HAZ-4.6 Emergency Services Structure Safety
Require that Bbuildings and structures required needed for emergency services and other
essential services shall have sufficient resistanceexceed the California Building Code for
Administrative Draft Policy Document
8-14 Revised GPAC Draft September 2020
seismic strengthening to withstand a major earthquake. [Source: Existing Policy SAF-1.4,
modified]
HAZ-4.7 Seismic Retrofit Incentives
Work with regional, State, and fFederal agencies and organizations to incentivize Provide
incentives for seismic retrofits of structures. [Source: Existing Policy SAF-1.5, modified]
Geological Investigation Requirement
Require geological investigations for any development or project as mandated by the State or
deemed warranted by the Town. [Source: Existing Policy SAF-1.6]
HAZ-4.8 Geologic Hazards Checklist
As part of development review, therRequire that a developer shall have a qualified
qualifiedlicensed geologic/geotechnical consultant fill outcomplete the Town Geologic Hazards
Checklist for all new proposed developments to show demonstrates that potential hazards
have been identified and that proposed structures, including grading cuts and fills, will be
designed to resist potential earthquake effects. [Source: Existing Policy SAF-1.7, modified]
Seismic Safety Restrictions
Enforce the California Building Code seismic safety restrictions. Require fault investigations for
structures for human habitation and all critical facilities. Investigation may include field
investigations. Reports shall include appropriate design measures to mitigate potential fault
ground rupture/deformation to acceptable levels , and shall be reviewed by the Town.
[Source: Existing Policy SAF-1.9]
HAZ-2.9 Earthquake Response Facilities
Retain private buildings and mMaintain public buildings whose use and function are essential in
response to a major earthquake. [Source: Existing Policy SAF-1.12]
HAZ-4.10 Resilient Infrastructure
Require the location, design, and construction of new public utilities, communication
infrastructure, and transportation facilities in a manner that minimizes risk and maximizes
functionality during and after an earthquake. [Source: New Policy]
8. Hazards and Safety Element
September 2020 Revised GPAC Draft 8-15
Flood and Inundation Hazards
Flooding can threaten life, safety, and property and occur in a number of ways. The level in a body of water, such
as a lake or creek, can rise higher than the water body’s banks, causing it to overflow into nearby areas. Heavy
precipitation can also overwhelm the ability of soil to absorb water or storm drains to carry it away fast enough,
causing water to build up on the surface. Localized flooding may also occur from infrastructure failure, such as a
burst water tank or pipe. In Los Gatos, the floods that are of most concern are from heavy rainfall causing local
flooding or flash floods. Flooding puts various populations in Town at risk. A 500-year flood could affect upwards
of 28,000 people and cause $10 billion of structural damage. Figure 8-6 shows FEMA flood zones in Los Gatos.
[Source: General Plan 2040 Background Report]
Beyond localized flooding Los Gatos faces, a less common flood threat from dam inundation, but one that is
recognized in both the Town Emergency Operations Plan and Santa Clara County Operational Area Hazard
Mitigation Plan. The Lexington Reservoir as contained by the James J. Lenihan Dam is the largest concern for
dam inundation. Lexington Reservoir is the third largest reservoir in Santa Clara County storing 19,044 acre-feet
of water. The potential inundation zone in the event of failure is significant, with the potential to affect over 3,000
people and damage over 1,000 structures. Dam failure would predominantly expose residential buildings to
flooding. However, many commercial buildings would also be at risk, as well as one educational building and a
few agricultural and religious buildings, Valley Water is responsible for maintenance of the dams and has an
established program for proactive inspection and maintenance. [Source: General Plan 2040 Background Report]
Thirteen Presidentially-declared flood disasters have occurred in Santa Clara County since 1954, caused largely
by high precipitation events leading to riverine floods, flash floods, and stormwater runoff floods. As future climate
change-related impacts increase, localized flooding may will become more common due to more extreme storms
increasing the potential for more frequent and severe riverine flooding. [Source: General Plan 2040 Background
Report]
Administrative Draft Policy Document
8-16 Revised GPAC Draft September 2020
FEMA Flood Zones
8. Hazards and Safety Element
September 2020 Revised GPAC Draft 8-17
The following goals and policies address flood and inundation hazards in Los Gatos.
HAZ-5
Reduce the potential for injuries, damage to property, economic and social
displacement, and loss of life resulting from flood hazards, to the greatest extent
possible. [Source: Existing General Plan, Goal SAF-4, modified]
Designated Floodways
Adopt designated floodways for all major streams utilizing the full floodplain concept as a first
priority and the modified floodplain concept as a second priority for floodplain development.
[Source: Existing Policy SAF-4.1, modified]
Land Uses in Floodplain Areas
Limit the intensity of land use in floodplain areas. [Source: Existing Policy SAF-4.2, modified]
HAZ-5.1 Flood Hazard Consideration in Site Planning
Require site planning and building design to mitigate identified flood and inundation hazards.
[Source: Existing Policy SAF-4.3]
HAZ-5.2 FEMA 100-Year Flood Zones
Require that new development and substantial improvements to existing structures meet
fFederal and State standards when located within FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs)
designated 100-year flood zones in the Los Gatos area, as shown in Figure 8.5 or most current
FEMA mapping, to meet federal standards. [Source: Existing Policies SAF-4.2 and SAF-4.4,
modified]
HAZ-5.3 Land Dedicated for Flood Protection
Obtain fee title to all land required to be dedicated for flood protection.
[Source: Existing Policy SAF-4.5]
HAZ-5.4 Peak Stormwater Run-off
Require major new development and redevelopment to provide mitigation design solutions to
control ensure that the cumulative rate of peak stormwater run-off is maintained atno higher
than pre-development levels. [Source: Existing Policy SAF-4.6]
HAZ-5.5 Flood Protection Facilities
Cooperate with the Santa Clara Valley Water District to develop and maintain additional
stormwater retention facilities in areas where they are needed or where the design capacity of
existing retention facilities cannot be restored. [Source: New Policy]
HAZ-5.6 Precipitation Changes
Monitor and respond to the risk of flooding caused by climate change-related changes to
precipitation patterns and groundwater levels. [Source: New Policy]
Administrative Draft Policy Document
8-18 Revised GPAC Draft September 2020
Public Health Emergencies: Preparedness, Response, and
Recovery
During health emergencies, local jurisdictions provide initial leadership, resources, and information to their
immediate community while establishing public-private and regional response efforts. As a result, the Town must
work with health providers, Santa Clara County, and local stakeholders to develop coordinated initial responses to
public health emergencies that rely on local resources. [Source: New Text]
Pandemics have the potential to be the most-deadly threat to public health. A pandemic can occur when a new
strain of influenza or other pathogen emerges to which most or all of the world’s human population has had no
previous exposure and thus has no immunity. [Source: New Text]
In the last century, multiple influenza pandemics have swept the globe.
In 1918, the first pandemic (sometimes referred to as the “Spanish Flu”) killed over 500,000 Americans
and more than 20 million people worldwide. One-third of the U.S. population was infected, and average life
expectancy was reduced by 13 years. (Source: National Strategy for Pandemic Influenza)
Pandemics in 1957 and 1968 killed tens of thousands of Americans and millions across the world. (Source:
National Strategy for Pandemic Influenza)
In the spring of 2009, a novel influenza A (H1N1) virus emerged. It was detected first in the United States
and spread quickly across the United States and the world. From April 12, 2009 to April 10, 2010, CDC
estimated there were 60.8 million cases (range: 43.3-89.3 million), 274,304 hospitalizations (range:
195,086-402,719), and 12,469 deaths (range: 8868-18,306) in the United States.
The 2020 COVID-19 Pandemic has spread rapidly since its discovery in December 2019. COVID-19 is an
illness caused by a new coronavirus that can spread from person to person. As of August 5, 2020, there
have been more than 4.8 million confirmed cases and 158,000 deaths in the United States. Globally, 18.6
million cases have been confirmed and 701,000 people have died from the effects of the novel corona
virus. [Source: New Text]
Although the timing, nature, and severity of a pandemic cannot be predicted, a planned and coordinated response
is critical to minimizing the public health impact, as well as the social and economic disruption to our everyday
lives. [Source: New Text]
The following goals and policies guide preparedness, response, and recovery efforts by the Town of Los Gatos
for current and future health emergencies.
HAZ-6
Reduce the potential and severity of short- and long-term health emergencies,
control the rate and extent of the spread of an illness, reduce economic and
social displacement, and reduce loss of life resulting. [Source: New Goal]
HAZ-6.1 Addressing Town Public Health Needs
The Town shall implement all minimum requirements from appropriate State of California and
Santa Clara County agencies relative to declared public health emergencies. The Town shall
also consider the needs of the community and expand the Town’s response beyond these
minimum requirements, as appropriate. [Source: New Policy]
8. Hazards and Safety Element
September 2020 Revised GPAC Draft 8-19
HAZ-6.2 Agency Coordination
Work closely with the State of California, Santa Clara County Office of Emergency
Management (SCC OEM), and Santa Clara County health officials to make certain that Town
needs are considered and addressed and to make sure the Town is aware of programs and
resources in a timely manner. [Source: New Policy]
HAZ-6.3 Coordinate the Delivery of Essential Public Health Services
Partner with organizations responsible for essential health care and human services to ensure
those services are provided as early as possible during the response, recovery, and return of
the public health system after a public health emergency or event. [Source: New Policy]
HAZ-6.4 Promote Training and Guidance for Community Partners
Promote training initiatives for community partners and other stakeholders within public health,
health care, human services, mental/behavioral health, and environmental health sectors.
[Source: New Policy]
HAZ-6.5 Communications and Community Education
Continue to maintain and enhance the Town’s communications and education resources to
provide timely and up-to-date information concerning public health emergencies. [Source: New
Policy]
HAZ-6.6 Preparedness
Work with the State of California and Santa Clara County Office of Emergency Management to
maintain a supply of resources necessary to respond to early stages of a public health
emergency. [Source: New Policy]
HAZ-6.7 Recovery
Work with the State of California and Santa Clara County Office of Emergency Management to
maintain a supply of resources necessary to respond to early stages of a public health
emergency. [Source: New Policy]
HAZ-6.8 Response Evaluation
During and following any public health emergency, Town staff will work with the community to
identify unmet needs and ways to improve preparation and responses for future public health
emergencies. [Source: New Policy]
Hazards and Hazardous Materials
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. Hazardous materials
include all toxic, flammable, combustible, corrosive, poisonous, and radioactive substances that possess the
potential to bring harm to the public or the environment. [Source: General Plan 2040 Background Report].
Common sources of hazardous materials in Los Gatos include:
Air emissions from industrial land uses;
Chemical contamination from industrial processors, such as commercial laundries;
Administrative Draft Policy Document
8-20 Revised GPAC Draft September 2020
Pesticide contamination from historic agricultural activities; and
Soil and groundwater contamination from industrial and commercial activities.
Although no official hazardous waste sites have been identified in Los Gatos, the California Department of Toxic
Substances Control (DTSC) has identified four sites (e.g., Becton-Dickinson, Maxxim Medical, Nova Alternative
Education, and the Swanson Ford Dealership) in the Town where hazardous materials are present and cleanup
activities are necessary. Two of these sites, Maxxim Medical and Swanson Ford Dealership, have been
remediated and redeveloped with other uses. There are also a number of facilities in Los Gatos that emit
hazardous and/or toxic substances as part of their daily operations such as diesel engine exhaust particulates,
formaldehyde, or other common hazardous and/or toxic substances as part of their daily operations. These
facilities are subject to the Air Toxics Hot Spots reporting requirements under AB 2588.
[Source: General Plan 2040 Background Report].
This section provides goals, policies, and programs to address hazards and hazardous materials in Los Gatos.
HAZ-7
Reduce the potential for injuries, damage to property, economic and social
displacement, and loss of life resulting from hazardous materials. [Source: Existing
Goal SAF-5]
HAZ-7.1 Water Supply and Air Protection
Work with public agencies and private organizations to prevent the introduction of hazardous
materials into the air and the water and air supply. [Source: Existing Policy SAF-5.1, modified]
HAZ-7.2 Phase I Site Assessment
Require Phase I site assessments for new development proposed on land that may be
contaminated with hazardous materials or waste.shall be required for all sites where property is
suspected of containing any toxins. [Source: Existing Policy SAF-5.2, modified]
HAZ-7.3 Hazardous Materials Storage Monitoring
Support Santa Clara County Fire Department in monitoring the storage of hazardous materials.
[Source: Existing Policy SAF-5.3]
HAZ-7.4 Hazardous Materials Business Plan
Require all businesses that use, store, or transport hazardous materials or waste to prepare a
Hazardous Materials and Waste Management Business Plan. [Source: New Policy]
HAZ-7.5 Household Hazardous Waste
The Town shall continue to develop and distribute educational materials and conduct
educational outreach to inform the public about household hazardous waste, proper disposal
methods, and proper use and storage of these materials. [Source: New Policy]
8. Hazards and Safety Element
September 2020 Revised GPAC Draft 8-21
Implementation Programs
Programs
Implements
Which
Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting
Department(s) 2021 – 2025 2026 – 2030 2031 – 2040 Annual Ongoing A Annual Hazards Report
Annually produce a report on hazard
preparation Townwide and the
coordination between Town departments.
[Source: New Implementation Program]
HAZ-1.1 Town Manager
SCC Fire
Department
Los Gatos-
Monte Sereno
Police
Department
B Plan Review
Annually review and refresh key staff on
the contents of the Los Gatos Safety
Element, the Santa Clara OAHMP, and
the Los Gatos HMP to ensure processes
and procedures are streamlined and
coordinated. [Source: New
Implementation Program]
HAZ-1.1
HAZ-1.2
HAZ-1.3
HAZ-1.5
Town Manager
Community
Development
Parks and
Public Works
SCC Fire
Department
Los Gatos-
Monte Sereno
Police
Department
C Review Emergency Services
Regularly review the adequacy of
emergency services in the Town. Plan
and develop law enforcement
infrastructure and technology according to
overall need and Town growth. [Source:
New Implementation Program]
HAZ-1.1 Town Manager
SCC Fire
Department
Los Gatos-
Monte Sereno
Police
Department
D Develop Evacuation Plans
Maintain and updateDevelop and
maintain evacuation plans for high risk
fire hazard areas. (Source: Existing
Action SAF-3.2, modified)
HAZ-1.1
HAZ-1.2
HAZ-4.4
HAZ-5.1
HAZ-5.2
HAZ-5.3
SCC Fire
Department
Community
Development
Parks and
Public Works
Los Gatos-
Monte Sereno
Police
Department
Administrative Draft Policy Document
8-22 Revised GPAC Draft September 2020
Programs
Implements
Which
Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting
Department(s) 2021 – 2025 2026 – 2030 2031 – 2040 Annual Ongoing E Response Drills
Conduct emergency hazard drills with key
stakeholder organizations, community
groups and organizations, outside
agencies, and local and County officials
across the community to improve
preparedness for known threats and
hazards. [Source: New Implementation
Program]
HAZ-1.3
HAZ-1.4
Town Manager
SCC Fire
Department
Los Gatos-
Monte Sereno
Police
Department
F Household Preparedness
Expand programs that help and
encourage each household in the Town to
be prepared to be self-sufficient for at
least two weeks after a major earthquake,
flood, terrorism event, pandemic, public
health emergency, or other major
disaster. [Source: New Implementation
Program]
HAZ-1.4 Town Manager
SCC Fire
Department
Los Gatos-
Monte Sereno
Police
Department
G Update Earthquake Preparedness
Update the Town’s earthquake
preparedness information packet, keep it
current on an ongoing basis and develop
and implement effective means to
disseminate it to Town residents and
businesses. (Source: Existing Action
SAF-1.5)
HAZ-1.4 Town Manager
Los Gatos-
Monte Sereno
Police
Department
H Distribute Safety Hazards Policy
Information
Adopt procedures whereby the public will
continually be made aware of the Town's
policies regarding safety hazards and be
conveniently supplied with information,
including notification of residents of fire
emergency plans for their area through
utility billing or other forms of Townwide
notification. (Source: Existing Action SAF-
2.1)
HAZ-1.4
HAZ-5.1
HAZ-5.2
SCC Fire
Department
Town Manager
Parks and
Public Works
I Public Fire Safety
Provide public education on fire safety,
including wildland and structural fire
prevention, evacuation routes, and
guidelines for defensible space clearance
HAZ-1.4
HAZ-2.2
HAZ-3.2
HAZ-3.5
Town Manager
Community
Development
8. Hazards and Safety Element
September 2020 Revised GPAC Draft 8-23
Programs
Implements
Which
Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting
Department(s) 2021 – 2025 2026 – 2030 2031 – 2040 Annual Ongoing of vegetation and other hazards around
structures. [Source: New Implementation
Program]
Fire
Department
J Coordinate Fire Preparedness
Coordinate with Santa Clara County Fire
Department to develop and distribute fire
prevention preparedness educational
information, including evacuation plans,
for residents. (Source: Existing Action
SAF-3.3)
HAZ-1.4
HAZ-3.2
HAZ-3.2
HAZ-3.5
SCC Fire
Department
Town Manager
J Identify Emergency Water Supply
Identify the characteristics of the total
water supply available in the event of an
emergency. (Source: Existing Action
SAF-3.1)
HAZ-2.3
HAZ-3.3
HAZ-3.4
SCC Fire
Department
Community
Development
K Post-Fire Recovery
Ensure the Town has a post-fire recovery
plan in place that is reviewed and
updated as needed, at a minimum of
every five years. The plan should include
an interim recovery strategy, model post-
disaster recovery ordinance, and a post-
disaster re-development plan. [Source:
New Implementation Program]
HAZ-2.5 Town Manager
Community
Development
Parks and
Public Works
SCC Fire
Department
L Hillside Roadway Assessment
Coordinate with Santa Clara County Fire
Department to assess hillside roadway
access to allow efficient evacuation for
residents and access for emergency
personnel vehicles. (Source: New
Implementation Program)
HAZ-2.1
HAZ-2.4
HAZ-3.1
HAZ-3.2
SCC Fire
Department
Town Manager
Parks and
Public Works
M Reduce Permitted Road Gradient
Amend the Town CodeSubdivision
Ordinance to reduce the permitted
gradient for roads in areas determined to
be high risk landslide or fault zones.
(Source: Existing Action SAF-1.4,
modified)
HAZ-4.2
HAZ-4.3
HAZ-4.8
Community
Development
N Update Mapping
Periodically updateUpdate the Town’s
geologic, seismic, and geotechnical maps
HAZ-4.4 Parks and
Public Works
Administrative Draft Policy Document
8-24 Revised GPAC Draft September 2020
Programs
Implements
Which
Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting
Department(s) 2021 – 2025 2026 – 2030 2031 – 2040 Annual Ongoing every five years. (Source: Existing Action
SAF-1.1, modified)
Community
Development
O Test Essential Bridges
Periodically Every five years identify and
retest, if needed, those bridges whose
destruction would cause serious access
problems after an earthquake. (Source:
Existing Action SAF-1.2, modified)
HAZ-4.6 Parks and
Public Works
P Ensure Earthquake Safety in Essential
Buildings
Work with building owners that house
essential functions and uses to ensure
structures are earthquake safe. Work with
facilitybuilding owners to periodically
ensure that all buildings and structures in
Town whosethat contain uses and
functions that are essential in response to
afor major earthquake response are safe.
(Source: Existing Action SAF-1.3,
modified)
HAZ-4.6 Town Manager
Community
Development
Q Retrofit Incentives
Provide information and incentives for
seismic retrofits of structures throughout
the Town, particularly those building types
that would affect the most people in the
event of an earthquake. [Source: New
Implementation Program]
HAZ-4.7 Community
Development
Parks and
Public Works
O Adopt Geologic Hazards Checklist
Create and adopt a Geologic Hazards
Checklist to be used during the
development review process. (Source:
Existing Action SAF-1.6)
HAZ-2.8 Community
Development
Parks and
Public Works
R Review Flood Zones
Annually review all areas subject to
flooding as identified by FEMA or the
State Department of Water Resources, as
required by AB 162. (Source: Existing
Action SAF-4.1)
HAZ-5.1
HAZ-5.2
Parks and
Public Works
Community
Development
S Prevent Inappropriate Development in
Flood Areas
Adopt floodplain zoning to prevent
HAZ-5.1
HAZ-5.2
Community
Development
8. Hazards and Safety Element
September 2020 Revised GPAC Draft 8-25
Programs
Implements
Which
Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting
Department(s) 2021 – 2025 2026 – 2030 2031 – 2040 Annual Ongoing inappropriate development in areas
subject to flooding. (Source: Existing
Action SAF-4.2)
T Flood Mitigation
Implement flood mitigation requirements
of FEMA in Special Flood Hazard Areas
as illustrated on the Flood Insurance Rate
Maps. [Source: New Implementation
Program]
HAZ-5.2 Community
Development
Parks and
Public Works
U FEMA Community Rating System
Participate in FEMA’s Community Rating
System to reduce flood insurance for local
residents and businesses in order to
lower the cost of flood insurance. [Source:
New Implementation Program]
HAZ-5.2 Community
Development
Parks and
Public Works
V Coordinate Flood Hazard
Preparedness
Coordinate with Santa Clara Valley Water
District, (SCVWD) FEMA, and/or the
State Department of Water Resources to
develop and distribute flood hazard
preparedness educational information,
including evacuation plans, for residents.
(Source: Existing Action SAF-4.3,
modified)
HAZ-5.5
Town Manager
Parks and
Public Works
W Community Awareness and
Collaboration
Engage community partners and other
stakeholders to support risk-mitigation.
Implement strategies for ongoing
collaboration with community partners
and stakeholders capable of providing
services to mitigate pre-identified general
and incident-specific public health
emergencies and controlling risks for
targeted populations.
[Source: New Implementation Program]
HAZ-6.3
Town Manager
Administrative Draft Policy Document
8-26 Revised GPAC Draft September 2020
Programs
Implements
Which
Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting
Department(s) 2021 – 2025 2026 – 2030 2031 – 2040 Annual Ongoing X Public Health Messaging
Collaborate with community partners and
stakeholders to develop, test, and
disseminate timely public health
messaging to targeted populations
through trusted representatives or
spokespersons.
[Source: New Implementation Program]
HAZ-6.5
HAZ-6.6
Town Manager
Y Personal Protective Equipment Supply
The Town should maintain a supply of
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for
Town essential workers (i.e., Town staff,
contractors, vendors, and volunteers) that
protects these workers during initial
stages of a public health emergency.
[Source: New Implementation Program]
HAZ-6.7
Town Manager
SCC Fire
Department
Los Gatos-
Monte Sereno
Police
Department
ATTACHMENT 2
Hazards and Safety Element
The following are comments received by the GPAC and corresponding changes in the Revised Public
Review Draft Element.
Hazards and Safety Element
GPAC/Town Comments Corresponding Change
Staff Comments
Policy 2.8 the word demonstrate should be
singular I believe.
Policy 2.8 has been updated to reflect the
comment.
Policy 2.10 need the word “of” after the word
construction.
Policy 2.10 has been updated to reflect the
comment.
Policy 6.1 misspells acoustician again. Policy 6.1 has been updated to reflect the
comment.
Policy 6.2 writes evaluating of – either evaluating
or evaluation of.
Policy 6.2 has been updated to reflect the
comment.
Submitted GPAC Comments prior to 8/6 Meeting
Key Term: Essential Facilities. Delete the first
sentence. Replace with: Structures, and buildings
housing services and equipment that are
essential to an emergency response following a
natural or human-induced disaster. These
facilities include….
The key term has been updated to reflect the
comment.
Key Terms: Day/Night Average Sound Level (Ldn).
The average A-weighted noise level…
The key term has been updated to reflect the
comment.
Add definition for Earthquake Fault Zone. The key term has been updated to reflect the
comment.
Add definition for Seismic Hazards (Primary):
Ground shaking, Surface rupture/deformation.
The key term has been updated to reflect the
comment.
Add definition for Seismic Hazard (Secondary):
Liquefaction and Landslides (Earthquake related.
The key term has been updated to reflect the
comment.
Add definition for Quaternary Faults. The key term has been updated to reflect the
comment.
Add definition for Landslides: other than
secondary seismic.
The key term has been updated to reflect the
comment.
Add definition for WUI. The key term has been updated to reflect the
comment.
Page 8-3. 8.1 Emergency Preparations, Response,
and Recovery: Introduction: The Town of Los
Gatos Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) that
identifies the existing hazards within the Town,
provides guidance and education for effective
and skillful emergency response techniques, and
the most effective allocation of resources
The introductory text has been updated to
include the red text in the comment. In
consultation between Town staff and the
Consultants, HAZ-1 will remain as written as a
Goal.
General Plan Policy Document Edit Tracking
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Hazards and Safety Element
GPAC/Town Comments Corresponding Change
for protection of people and property in the
event of an emergency.
Goal HAZ-1 : Ensure the community is prepared
for natural and manmade disasters and
can respond quickly and efficiently. I think this is
a policy rather than a Goal. I suggest
combining HAZ-1 and HAZ-2.
HAZ-1.1: Coordinate and incorporate
emergency preparedness into all Town Planning
efforts, including plans for communications,
providing adequate access for emergency
equipment and for evacuation in the case of
emergency.
Policy 1.1 has been updated to reflect the
comment.
HAZ-1.2: Policies 1 & 3: These policies overlap. I
suggest combining them into one policy.
Policy 1.1 and the previous Policy 1.3 have been
merged into a revised Policy 1.1 on page 8-3.
HAZ-1.3: Participate in local and regional
emergency preparedness planning. and response
efforts to present the Town needs and interests in
regional emergency management
planning.
Former Policy 1.3 has been merged with Policy
1.1 per the above comment.
HAZ-1.4: Emphasize responsibility of residents and
/businesses to mitigate potential hazards.
Policy 1.3 (formerly Policy 1.4 on page 8-4) has
been updated to reflect the comment.
HAZ-1.5: The Town shall not site essential facilities,
public safety…or hazardous material.
Policy 1.4 (formerly Policy 1.5 on page 8-4) has
been updated to reflect the comment.
Page 8-4: 8.2 Geological and Seismic Hazards
End the second sentence in the second paragraph
after “…and 1989 Loma Prieta earthquakes being
the largest”. Delete the rest of the paragraph and
delete the last paragraph and replace with the
following new paragraph: Implementation of
applicable building codes and geotechnical
investigations will minimize potential loss of life and
damage to property from primary and secondary
seismic hazards and siting essential structures and
services outside high risk areas will enable faster
emergency response after an earthquake.
Introductory text for Section 8.3 (formerly 8.2 on
page 8-8) has been updated to reflect the
comment.
Pages 8-5, Fig. 8-l
Why the change in name from Major Faults to
Regional Faults?
Label the San Andreas, Hayward, and Calaveras
faults.
This comment has been addressed with new
figures showing faults within Town Limits, and
regional faults in South Bay.
General Plan Policy Document Edit Tracking
August 2020
Page 3 of 12
Hazards and Safety Element
GPAC/Town Comments Corresponding Change
Distinguished between Quaternary Faults that have
been active within 10,000 years and 1,6
thousand years ago.
Add a figure, at a larger scale, of faults that run
through Los Gatos (i.e., the area outlined in
blue). This could be as a separate figure or a box
within Figure 8-1).
Figure 8-3 Seismic Hazards: The introduction to 8.2
Geological and Seismic Hazards refers
to liquefaction and landslides as secondary hazards.
Suggest amending title to Secondary
Seismic Hazards to be consistent with the
definition.
The title of Figure 8-4 (formerly Figure 8-3 on
page 8-11) has been updated to reflect the
comment.
HAZ-1.5: The Town shall not site essential facilities,
public safety…or hazardous materials storage
facilities in areas… (Essential facilities are defined
under Key Words).
Policy text has been updated, excluding the cross-
reference to the Key Terms. All elements in GP
have not cross-referenced Key Terms when used.
Page 8-8: Goal HAZ-2 and the Policies that follow:
I find this section confusing:
What is the difference between a geological report,
a geotechnical report and a report?
What is the difference between a geologic hazard, a
geotechnical hazard and a seismic hazard?
What type of hazards are erosion and
sedimentation?
What defines a property or portion of a property
unbuildable?
Does Figure 8-3 include all potential landslides or
just those secondary to seismic shaking?
Is it possible to mitigate for fault rupture, other
than moving the development outside of the
rupture zone?
A geological report is another name for
geotechnical report. We simplified the language
and went with one title, geotechnical.
A geologic hazard does not necessarily have to be
seismic induced, for example rock falls, landslides,
and rockslides. A seismic hazard can be the
hazard from the earthquake itself (primary) or
from the results of an earthquake (secondary).
Mapping areas of high-risk and areas of concern,
as well as the Geological Hazards Checklist would
help inform properties or portions thereof that
are unbuildable.
Figure 8-4 (formerly Figure 8-3) shows all areas
susceptible to landslides/rockslides. There is no
way to mitigate for fault rupture beyond moving
all development off of fault lines.
Page 8-10 8.3 Flood and Inundation Hazards
Comment: The James J. Lenihan Dam, the third
largest dam in Santa Clara County, is
located just south of Town parallel to Highway 17.
While the potential dam failure may be
The introduction to the Flood and Inundation
Hazards Section 8.4 (formerly 8.3 on page 8-14)
has been updated to reflect the comment from
the GPAC. A new second paragraph has been
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Hazards and Safety Element
GPAC/Town Comments Corresponding Change
low, the Background Report states on Page 8-22:
that the potential inundation zone in the
event of the failure of the Lenihan Dam would be
significant. Over 3,000 people and over
1,000 structures could be potentially affected. The
Town has installed signage directing
people to evacuation routes in the event of the
dam’s failure.
I think the potential damage from the dam’s failure
deserves mention in the General Plan
even if the potential for failure or overtopping is
low.
added based on information from the Background
Report.
Goal HAZ-3. Delete to the greatest extent possible.
The goal already states “Reduce” not
eliminate.
Goal 5 (formerly Goal 3 on page 8-16) has been
updated to reflect the comment.
Policy HAZ-3.4 Require that new development…to
existing structure shall meet…
Policy 5.4 (formerly Policy 3.4 on page 8-16)
include a definitive verb, “Require”, thus does not
need a shall. This comment was not
incorporated.
Policy HAZ-2.6 Comment: This is an overly broad
statement. Respond how? Responds to
impacts of the increased hazard by improving
emergency response; or to avoid or mitigate
for the potential for increased impacts?
Policy 4.6 (formerly 2.6 on page 8-12) from the
existing Los Gatos General Plan was geared
toward the physical structure so that it would
maintain operation following a major earthquake.
One way to clarify this is to require the building to
exceed California Building Code for seismic
strengthening.
First paragraph of the introduction: Does the WUI
include all classifications shown on Figure
8-5? I think it is important to emphasize the link
between fire hazards, especially wildland
fire, and air quality, greenhouse gas emissions and
climate change. I suggest, at a minimum, a new first
paragraph to the introduction as follows:
Santa Clara County, including Los Gatos, has a high
potential for devastating wildland
fires. As future climate change-related impacts
increase, there will be greater potential for
more frequent and more intense wildfires, along
with the potential for these fires to release
significant quantities of Greenhouse Gases and
particulate matter into the atmosphere.
Strong land use policies and mitigation measures
are necessary to protect the health and
Text provided per the comment was includes
where necessary to bolster the introduction to
Section 8.2 (formerly Section 8.4 on Page 8-4).
All areas noted as Fire Hazard Zones are part of
the Santa Clara County WUI. We will add a note
to the Fire Hazard Figure showing this.
General Plan Policy Document Edit Tracking
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Hazards and Safety Element
GPAC/Town Comments Corresponding Change
safety of residents, to minimize the loss of life, and
to minimize property damage and
damage to infrastructure.
Incorporate in the introductions the tie between
increasing fire hazard and Climate Change
(There is a short discussion in the Background
Report Page 8-31.)
Is there anything mandatory in the OAHMP, the
CWPP or Annex Nine or are they limited to
guidance?
Goals HAZ-4 and HAZ-5: I think that HAZ-4 is a
policy not a goal.
HAZ-4 will remain written as a Goal.
HAZ-4.4: Secondary Emergency Access: Provide
emergency access as required by the
Santa Clara County Fire Department that will not
increase traffic for homes in areas
identified as Very High Fire Hazard Areas on the
Town’s Wildland Fire Severity Zone Map.
Reducing fire hazards, especially in the hillsides,
affects the entire Town. Does the Town’s Wildland
Fire Severity Zone Map refer to Fire Hazard Severity
Zones, Figure 8-5 on Page 8-4?
The GPAC asked that we streamline the verbiage.
In doing so, we concluded the best approach for
Policy 2.4 (formerly Policy 4.4 on page 8-7) was to
remove additional language as noted by another
GPAC member and reduce the policy language by
50 percent. This comment is not reflected in the
revised draft.
8.5 NOISE
Comment:
I do not think that noise fits comfortably with
Hazards. I think it works better as a
stand-alone element. Since noise in Los Gatos is
largely regenerated by vehicle use,
it could fit after the Mobility Element.
The Noise section will be moved to the
Environment and Sustainability Element.
Page 8-16: Introduction
First paragraph: While Noise is frequently an
integral part of daily living…
Second paragraph, second sentence: Table 8-1
contains the land use noise compatibility
criteria established in 2010, representing the
maximum acceptable noise in decibels that
may be received by for the listed land use category,
Second paragraph, last sentence: In addition, the
Town of Los Gatos Municipal Code….
This has been updated to reflect the comment in
the Noise Section of the ENV Element.
HAZ-10.1: Protect existing and proposed residential
areas from noise by requiring
appropriate site and building design, sound walls,
buffering landscaping and or the
This Policy has been updated to reflect the
comment in the Noise Section of the ENV
Element.
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Hazards and Safety Element
GPAC/Town Comments Corresponding Change
use of…
Comment: It requires a minimum of 100 feet of
dense landscaping to reduce noise by
1 db.
HAZ-10-2: What designated areas? Why only a
“may.”
Those areas will have to be studied to determine
if it warrants requiring mitigation to go beyond
the Noise Ordinance. The “may” is saying that not
every situation will require the action of
exceeding those standards.
Move Noise from this element and add it to
Environment and Sustainability.
The Noise section will be moved to the
Environment and Sustainability Element.
General, a style comment: use a consistent
format for bulleted lists. Some have end
punctuation periods, some have semi-colons. The
convention (when I was editing) typically is
nothing after each, but a period after the last,
UNLESS each item is a full sentence, then use
periods after each.
Comment noted.
Key Term: 100 yr flood: Change format of “one
percent” to 1.0 percent which makes it readily
comparable to the 500 yr flood definition.
This comment has been reflected in the key terms
on page 8-1.
Key Term: Hazardous/Toxic Substances and
Hazardous Waste. Terms used should be the
same: I don’t believe “chemical agent” is the
same as an “ignitable, corrosive, reactive, or
toxic.” The later is broader. Suggest using it in
place of chemical in the first definition.
This comment has been reflected in the key terms
on page 8-3.
Add definition for noise-sensitive. This comment has been reflected in the key terms
of the ENV Element.
And be sure above two definitions are what
OSHA would use.
The previous definitions referred to for noise-
sensitive and WUI are not OSHA definitions. The
definition for WUI can be found in the Key Terms
on page 8-3. The definition for noise-sensitive is
reflected in the key terms of the ENV Element.
Page 3, 8.1 discussion, second paragraph. Does
the EOP recognize hazards that might derive from
outside the Town? If so, replace “within” with
“that affect” the Town.
This comment has been reflected in the 8.1
introduction.
HAZ-1.4: This element does not specifically say
where, how or from whom the community will be
informed and educated. Seems to be generally
A communications plan for the Town is under
development.
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Hazards and Safety Element
GPAC/Town Comments Corresponding Change
missing from implementation plans too. Is there a
master communications plan?
Page 4, last paragraph, use essential or critical
but eliminate the parenthetic term.
The introductory piece to Section 8.3 (formerly
Section 8.2 on page 8-8) has been updated to
reflect the comment.
Page 8, HAZ-2.1, 2.2 and 3.2. 2.1 is seriously hard
to parse as written. Use the same phrasing for
each by beginning with “Require geotechnical
reports by a qualified engineering geologist
and/or geotechnical engineer...” then adding the
details. What is meant by “qualified?” If licensed,
say that instead.
The front end of policies 4.1 and 4.2 (formerly 2.1
and 2.2) were updated to reflect the comment.
Wording was maintained in Policy 5.2 (formerly
3.2 on page 8-16).
HAZ-2.5: Agreement: Preserve…portions…that
are…
Policy 4.5 (formerly Policy 2.5 on page 8-12) has
been updated to reflect the comment.
HAZ-2.6: As a matter of style, do not repeat the
same term: Require and required. Use Require
and needed.
Policy 4.6 (formerly 2.6 on page 8-12) has been
updated to reflect this comment.
Page 9, HAZ-2.8 and 6.1: What is meant by
“qualified?” (see comment above) use licensed?
This comment was meant to highlight a licensed
geological consultant. We have updated Policy
4.8 (formerly policy 2.8 on page 8-13). Policy 6.1
was removed as part of the Noise Section and is
now incorporated into the ENV Element.
Page 12, HAZ-3.4: Delete “is maintained” and
perhaps add “no higher than pre-development.”
Policy 5.4 (formerly 3.4 on page 8-16) has been
updated to reflect this comment.
Page 13:(Semantics) “regular feature” sounds so
benign…
Wildfire introduction text on page 8-4 (formerly
page 8-13) has been revised to reflect the
comment.
This discussion could use more urgency. There
should be a mention of how climate change
continues to exacerbate the fire danger. Also,
perhaps, a brief discussion of PG&E’s planned
power shutoff.
Wildfire introduction text on page 8-4 (formerly
page 8-13) has been revised to reflect the
comment.
Page 14, The map does not delineate the QUI
boundary (or region), but references to WUI
areas are in the goals and policies (e.g., HAZ-5.2
and 5.5). If all areas are WUI, then state that
clearly on Figure 8-5.
Figure 8-1 (formerly Figure 8-5 on page 8-5)
include a note on the graphic stating that current
areas shown reflect the WUI boundaries for Santa
Clara County.
Page 15: HAZ-5.3: What is “adequate water
supply”?
Removed the term adequate and relied that
water supply is necessary for fire emergency
response.
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Page 16: How current are the numbers in the
table? (I couldn’t get a reading, let alone an
average, within the normally acceptable where I
live, even without traffic…).
This comment has been addressed in the Noise
Section of the ENV Element.
Page 17, Future noise note: fix agreement:
“These statements…require…”
Note Box has been updated to reflect this
comment.
Page 19, HAZ-6.2: Convoluted. Try “The Ldn scale
shall be used to evaluate outdoor noise…” and
delete all that follows after “long range
aspirations.”
Policy 6.2 has been updated to reflect this
comment and was moved to the ENV Element as
part of the Noise Section.
HAZ-6.3: What are these noise levels? Same as in
Table 8-1? If so, say so, if not, specify.
This comment has been addressed in the Noise
Section of the ENV Element.
HAZ-7: This seems to be written backward, or at
least makes one stop to think about that you are
actually addressing. Say instead: “Ensure
proposed new development is not located in
areas with existing higher-than-acceptable noise
levels” (this is a component of environmental
justice which should be noted).
This goal has been updated to reflect this
comment in the Noise Section of the ENV
Element.
HAZ-7.1: Introduces an undefined term: “Noise-
sensitive.” Please define using (and then deleting)
the phrase in this policy “when
proposed…standards.”
This policy has been updated to reflect this
comment in the Noise Section of the ENV
Element.
HAZ-7.2: replace “Consider” with “Use.” This policy has been updated to reflect this
comment in the Noise Section of the ENV
Element.
HAZ-8.2: What are roadway facilities? Roadway facility is another term for roadway
system or network. Based on past comments to
reduce verbiage for clarity, we removed facilities
and said “roadways” instead. This policy has been
updated to reflect this comment in the Noise
Section of the ENV Element.
Haz-8.3: Does LG have this authority? This policy has been updated to reflect this
comment in the Noise Section of the ENV
Element.
HAZ-9.1: Better worded in original form, revert to
original and insert “construction and
maintenance” and “state-of-the-art.”
This policy has been updated to reflect this
comment in the Noise Section of the ENV
Element.
HAZ-9.2: Delete “that encourages or requires.” This policy has been updated to reflect this
comment in the Noise Section of the ENV
Element.
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HAX-10: Insert “noise-” in front of sensitive and
be sure to hyphenate this term in all instances.
The grammar has been updated to reflect this
comment in the Noise Section of the ENV
Element.
Delete the sentence (at end of discussion) “This
section provides…”
This has been removed and reflected in the Noise
Section of the ENV Element.
G: Confusing as worded. How do continuously
(online? Say so) and conveniently (same)
happen?
Goal H has been updated to reflect this comment.
M: Run-on. Try: Work with building owners that
house essential functions and uses to ensure
structures are earthquake safe.
Goal Q (formerly Goal M on page 8-22) has been
updated to reflect this comment.
O: Has this actually NOT been created? If it
hasn’t, don’t create it but use acceptable regional
or state standards.
This Goal has been removed to not re-invent the
wheel but rely on regional and state standards.
Q: Same comment. This is a ten-year old plan.
Has this not happened yet?
This implementation program has been modified
to propose updating maps/zones.
V: Move to other IPs related to Fire (P. 24-25).
And due to the high level of interest and urgency,
the dates should happen sooner.
Goal K (formerly Goal V on page 8-22) has been
moved into the section pertaining wildfire related
programs and the timeline has bene moved up.
CC: Define NOT in the IP, but for this element.
Then delete sentence with “Examples.”
This Goal has been updated to reflect the
comment in the Noise Section of the ENV
Element.
EE: The program is not measurable, but the noise
levels are. Try: The Town shall establish a
program to measure noise reduction…”
This Goal has been updated to reflect the
comment in the Noise Section of the ENV
Element.
HH: In addition to what the City of SJ or the
county already provides at regional drop-off
sites? This reads very broad and expensive.
This implementation program has been removed
in response to other comments.
GPAC Meeting Comments (8/6)
What is unacceptable relative to noise in policies? This comment will be addressed in the Noise
Section of the ENV Element.
Need to discuss including insulation to mitigate. This comment will be addressed in the Noise
Section of the ENV Element.
Enforce leaf blower ordinance. This comment will be addressed in the Noise
Section of the ENV Element.
Gardening equipment - are we doing more than
blowers, maybe lawn mowers too, which would
be good.
This comment will be addressed in the Noise
Section of the ENV Element.
Add implementation measure for ordinance for
all lawn equipment.
This comment will be addressed in the Noise
Section of the ENV Element.
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Low noise a/c and pool equipment. Staff does review pool and a/c equipment now.
Motion to include Health Emergency section. This
new section will replace the Noise section which
is moving to Environment and Sustainability.
This comment has been addressed with the
incorporation of Section 8.5 Public Health
Emergencies: Preparedness, Response, and
Recovery on page 8-16.
HAZ-2.9. What is this asking Town to do? The former Policy 2.9 has been removed and
merged with the Policy 4.6 (formerly Policy 2.6 on
page 8-12).
HAZ-2.6. Combine with HAZ-2.9. Policy 4.9 (formerly Policy 2.9 on page 8-13) was
removed since it was duplicative of Policy 4.6
(formerly Policy 2.6).
New development needs to be required to be
built so emergency responders can reach an area.
There are existing policies that discuss having
essential facilities built and strengthened to
withstand disasters. In turn emergency
responders would be able to reach those areas.
This comment was not incorporated directly.
HAZ-4.4. Delete after "Department." Policy 2.4 (formerly Policy 4.4 on page 8-5) has
been updated to reflect the comment.
With climate change, will have more localized
flooding.
This comment has been reflected in Section 8.4
(formerly Section 8.3 on page 8-14).
Cross hatch flooding in unincorporated. The flooding diagram has been updated to reflect
this comment.
Program for annual report on hazard preparation.
New Program A has been added to reflect this
comment.
Page 8-15. Want definitive verbs used more.
Like, don't like 4.2, 5.2, etc.
Policy 3.2 (formerly Policy 5.2 on page 8-7) has
been updated to include more definitive
language. Policy 2.2 (formerly 4.2 on page 8-7)
was not updated since the policy would require
all existing homeowners Townwide to personally
fund and undergo fire safety retrofits to their
home when the Building Code does not
necessarily require that. If this is something the
GPAC would still like to enforce, then Town staff
and the Town Manager’s office should weigh in.
Creating fire buffer zone between urban area and
hillsides.
New Policy 2.5 (page 8-6) has been added to
reflect this comment.
Work with utility providers to inspect, replace,
and move equipment.
New Policy 3.6 (page 8-7) has been added to
reflect this comment.
Program for annual report on hazard preparation.
Annual Hazards Report.
New Program A has been added to reflect this
comment.
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Include assessment of roadways in hillside for
providing proper access.
New Program M has been added to reflect this
comment.
Criteria for building in very high fire areas. The California Building Code handles all building
criteria in fire hazards areas, including structures
that require fire sprinklers. This comment was not
incorporated directly.
Important, so should move up to #1 in element.
Wildfire should be come first.
This section has been moved to #2 in this
Element. We maintained #1 as overall Emergency
Response and Action, starting a high-level view,
then focusing on specific hazards, such as
wildfire.
No coverage of dry cleaners in hazardous waste
section.
A reference was added to this the introduction of
Section 8.6 on page 8-17.
HAZ-11.5. Take out the continue. Policy 7.5 (formerly 11.5 on page 8-19) has been
updated to reflect the comment.
Police role in emergency response. No policies on
Police.
Police and other law enforcement agencies are
already required to aid in emergency response.
Re-stating their existing role is not necessary.
Policy 1.2 was modified to specifically call out
continued coordination with Santa Clara County
Fire and Los Gatos-Monte Sereno Police
Department for coordination on evacuations. For
Law Enforcement specific policies, see the PFS
Element.
Change BB to enforce. Joel noted that other
topics still need to be addressed.
Former Program BB has been updated to reflect
the comment in the Noise Section of the ENV
Element.
HH, add education on existing opportunities. This implementation program has been removed
in response to other comments.
GG covers HH but add education. This implementation program has been removed
in response to other comments.
Public Comment at the GPAC Meeting (8/6)
Rob Stump: This is the right time to establish a
Community Wildfire Preparation and Prevention
Committee. The time is now to develop a master
plan for wildfire resiliency for our community.
There is a tremendous amount of work to be
done to reduce the risk for wildfire. We need to
do a much better job of mobilizing our
community particularly those living in the Very
High Fire Hazard Zone.
Staff can bring this suggestion to Town Council to
be considered separately from the General Plan
update during the Strategic Priorities discussion.
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