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HomeMy WebLinkAbout20200827_ZA_Staff Report CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH ZONING ADMINISTRATOR STAFF REPORT August 27, 2020 Agenda Item No. 3 SUBJECT: AT&T Small Cell SLC4653 (PA2019-115) Coastal Development Permit No. CD2020-118 SITE LOCATION: Public right-of-way, City streetlight number SLC4653, on the north side of Bayside Drive, approximately 900 feet northwest of El Paseo Drive APPLICANT: New Cingular Wireless, LLC CARRIER: AT&T Mobility OWNER: City of Newport Beach PLANNER: Joselyn Perez, Assistant Planner 949-644-3312, jperez@newportbeachca.gov LAND USE AND ZONING Public Right-of-Way (ROW) PROJECT SUMMARY A request for a coastal development permit (CDP) to allow the installation of a small cell wireless facility on a City-owned streetlight pole. Project implementation will be fully contained within the public right-of-way on Bayside Drive and includes the following: (1) Removal and replacement of an existing City streetlight; (2) Installation of a small cell wireless facility that consists of four remote radio units, a raycap disconnect, and an omni- directional antenna within a 12-inch diameter antenna screening shroud. This equipment would be fixed to the top of the replaced streetlight pole for a maximum height of 27 feet, 5 inches; and (3) Establishment of new below-grade support equipment adjacent to the streetlight. A minor use permit (UP2019-034) for this project was previously reviewed and approved by the Zoning Administrator on April 16, 2020. Since that approval, it has been determined that a CDP is also required RECOMMENDATION 1) Conduct a public hearing; 2) Find this project exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15302 and 15303 under Class 2 (Replacement or Reconstruction) and Class 3 (New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures), respectively, of the State CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act) Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 6, Chapter 3, because it has no 11 AT&T Small Cell SLC4653 (PA2019-115) Zoning Administrator, August 27, 2020 Page 2 Tmplt: 07/25/19 potential to have a significant effect on the environment and the exceptions to the Class 3 exemption under Section 15300.2 do not apply; and 3) Adopt Draft Zoning Administrator Resolution No. _ approving Coastal Development Permit No. CD2020-118 (Attachment No. ZA 1). BACKGROUND Over the last several decades, with the invention of new technologies like smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches, connectivity for wireless devices drove telecommunications companies to deploy new equipment to allow for the transmission of more data. Wireless data demand continues to grow, outpacing the capacity of the existing telecommunications infrastructure. Small cell technology, like that proposed, is now being deployed across the country as a new solution to resolve soaring data demand and make coverage more reliable. In contrast to traditional macro wireless sites (i.e., cell towers), small cells can advance a stronger signal over a small radius by the means of minimal equipment on existing infrastructure. The result is limited visual intrusion and the enhanced wireless network capacity which residents, businesses, and visitors demand. The City of Newport Beach (City) regulatory review of wireless telecom siting is limited by three federal laws: The Communications Act of 1934, the Telecommunications Act of 1996 (Telecommunications Act) and a provision of the Middle-Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 (Spectrum Act). Together, these laws aim to facilitate and stimulate wireless infrastructure development and restrict certain aspects of local authority in review and permitting of wireless telecommunications facilities. On January 14, 2019, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Declaratory Ruling and Order FCC 18-133 (Order) became effective. This directive further removed barriers to wireless infrastructure deployment and established accelerated timelines for processing small wireless facility applications at the local level. It also limited the rights as a property owner, restricting the type and amount of fees the City can collect for private use of public property. On February 12, 2019, the City Council authorized execution of a Master License Agreement (MLA) (Contract No. C-8584-1) with New Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC (AT&T). The Master License authorized non-exclusive use of City-owned streetlights to install telecommunications equipment for small cell facilities, and included approved designs, fee and rent assessment. AT&T is responsible for all resultant construction, installation, maintenance, and repair of the small cell facilities, including all related costs and expenses. Further, AT&T is responsible 22 AT&T Small Cell SLC4653 (PA2019-115) Zoning Administrator, August 27, 2020 Page 3 Tmplt: 07/25/19 for complying with all laws, statutes, ordinances, rules, and regulations that may be required for their projects. As the local regulatory agency, the City assesses wireless service facilities under local permitting protocol and ensures sites adhere to responsible regulatory practices, including safety, accessibility, environmental impact, land use, and aesthetics. However, Section 332(c)(7)(B)(iv) of U.S. Code Title 47 Telecommunications) reads, no state or local government may regulate wireless telecommunication facilitates on the basis of the perceived health effects of radio frequency (RF) emissions to the extent that the proposed facilities comply with FCC regulations concerning emissions. Submitted RF materials from the applicant demonstrate the proposal would conform with FCC Rules and Regulations. Condition of Approval No. 25 requires the applicant to comply with all applicable provisions of U.S. Code Title 47 (Telecommunications) rules and regulations, including those related to radio frequency emissions. PROJECT SETTING AND DESCRIPTION City of Newport Beach Streetlight No. SLC4653 is located in a vegetated parkway on the north side of Bayside Drive at the toe of a steep slope. The streetlight is located approximately 900 feet northwest of the intersection of Bayside Drive and El Paseo Drive (Attachment No. ZA 3). All abutting land uses are residential and vary in density from R-1 (Single-Unit Residential) in contiguous parcels to RM (Multiple Residential) across the street. Under the new FCC Order, wireless providers are not required to demonstrate a significant coverage gap, a qualification previously required by local jurisdictions in order to support an application. Pursuant to the Order, the City cannot [inhibit] the introduction of new services or the improvement of existing services. Moreover, pursuant to Section 332(c)(7)(B)(i)(II) of U.S. Code Title 47 (Telecommunications), the City may regulate the placement, construction or modification of wireless service facilities in a manner that prohibits the provision of personal wireless Although not required, the applicant produced a coverage map for the project (Attachment No. ZA 5). This map indicates the proposed facility would boost the supply of capacity and coverage in the vicinity. SLC4653 serves as a part of the City s existing streetlight inventory. AT&T proposes to: (1) remove and replace SLC4653 with a new streetlight in the same location; (2) maintain the existing luminaire height of 21 feet, 1 inch; (3) install telecommunications equipment for a small cell wireless facility on top of the new streetlight pole resulting in an overall height of 27 feet, 5 inches; and (4) establish new below-grade support equipment adjacent to the streetlight, within the public right-of-way. Please see the Project Description and Justification as Attachment No. ZA 6. 33 AT&T Small Cell SLC4653 (PA2019-115) Zoning Administrator, August 27, 2020 Page 4 Tmplt: 07/25/19 The replacement streetlight pole design is consistent with the size, shape, style, and design of that existing, including the attached light arm and luminaire. Project plans are available for reference as Attachment No. ZA 8. For safety and circulation of the area during construction, Condition of Approval No. 38 included within the draft resolution requires traffic control plans illustrating compliance with the 2016 watchbook (temporary traffic control guidelines in construction work areas) to be reviewed and approved by the Public Works Department prior to the issuance of any building permit. 44 AT&T Small Cell SLC4653 (PA2019-115) Zoning Administrator, August 27, 2020 Page 5 Tmplt: 07/25/19 CONSISTENCY ANALYSIS The project site is designated as Public Right-of-Way (ROW), which is property held in trust by the City, and allows for the construction and maintenance of public roads, crosswalks, pedestrian walkways, electric transmission lines, oil or gas pipeline, water line, sanitary or storm sewer, or other similar uses. City Council Policy L-23 (Siting of Wireless Telecommunications Equipment on City-Owned Property) governs procedures and locations for siting wireless telecommunications equipment in the ROW. Streetlights are eligible for telecom use, subject to entitlements (such as this minor use permit request), yearly rent, and a license agreement. General Plan Natural Resources Goal NR 21 recommends the minimized visual impacts of signs and utilities. The proposed design is consistent with NR 21 by introducing no new vertical obstructions in the ROW, employing stealth elements like colorization (painting to match the streetlight pole), and installing the associated equipment below grade. Conditions of Approval No. 20 and 21 prohibit advertising signage or identifying logos on any telecom facility except for small identification, address, warning, and similar information plates. Signage required by State or Federal regulations shall be allowed in its smallest permissible size. General Plan Land Use Policy LU 6.1.3 promotes architecture and planning that complements adjoining uses. The proposed design adjoins residential uses and aligns with LU 6.1.3 by copying the size, shape, style, and design of the existing streetlight pole to decrease potential disruption of the visual environment. Adverse impact to circulation, aesthetics, sounds, or odor are not anticipated from project implementation. General Plan Land Use Policy LU 4 calls for the management of growth and change to protect and enhance the livability of neighborhoods and achieve distinct and economically vital business and employment districts, which are correlated with supporting infrastructure and public services and sustain Newport Beach s natural setting. The proposed small cell facility upholds the intent of LU 4 by providing infrastructure to add system capacity for service gaps that may occur for residents and businesses of the area in regular and high demand periods. It also benefits the community by improving the existing coverage and capacity to increase the voice and data system already in use by its customers. The facility is designed to adapt and accept future technologies, such as 5G, and will help meet local demand and sustain the livability of the area. Newport Beach Municipal Code (NBMC) Chapter 21.49 (Wireless Telecommunication Facilities) outlines State- and federally compliant telecommunication facility development standards and detail permit procedures based on facility Class. Class of a wireless facility is characterized by its 55 AT&T Small Cell SLC4653 (PA2019-115) Zoning Administrator, August 27, 2020 Page 6 Tmplt: 07/25/19 installation type and location. Small cell facilities located on City-owned streetlights in the ROW are a Class 3 specification (Public Right-of-Way Installations). NBMC Subsection 21.49.040(A) (Preferred Locations) prioritizes telecom facilities from most preferred (1) to least preferred (4) as follows: (1) collocation of a new facility at an existing facility; (2) Class 1 (Stealth/Screened); (3) Class 2 (Visible Antennas) and Class 3 (Public Right-of-Way); and (4) Class 4 (Freestanding Structure). Although lower on the listing of priority facilities, the proposed facility consists of one small cell facility that is designed to not visually dominate the surrounding area and instead to blend into the existing block. Subsection 21.49.020(B) (Permit and Agreement Required) of the NBMC requires a coastal development permit for any wireless telecommunication facility unless said facility is exempted by Subsection 21.49.020(C) (Exempt Facilities). In this case, the project does not meet any of the prescribed exemptions; therefore, a coastal development permit is required. NBMC Section 21.49.050 (General Development and Design Standards) requires projects to be visually compatible with surrounding structures. In reviewing this application, the Zoning Administrator shall consider the proposed use of color blending, equipment screening, and the limited size of the equipment designed consistently with the criteria. All telecommunications equipment on top of the streetlight pole would be concealed within a painted-to-match 12-inch diameter shroud. The proposed small cell facility would rely on likeness with the streetlight pole through style, color, and material to help disguise its presence. Engineering of the replacement streetlight pole accommodates and withstands the weight of the small cell equipment and could display a future City banner, if needed. Electrical and wiring components of the telecommunications equipment are designed to be fully contained within the new streetlight pole. The overall height of 27 feet, 5 inches from finished grade to the top of the proposed facility complies with the maximum allowed. Equipment not contained within the shroud on the streetlight pole would be out of sight, located below the ground in the adjacent ROW. Condition of Approval No. 32 requires approved design drawings from Southern California Edison (SCE) of the power supply to the small cell facility before construction of the facility is to commence. The project site abuts a residentially zoned property however the physical residence at that property is setback from the property line approximately 115 feet and is separated from the right of way by a extremely steep slope. The height of the existing streetlight SLC4653 sits well below the grade of the adjacent residences. Given the significant grade differential and the lower setting of the streetlight, the general visibility of the proposed small cell facility is lessened for the existing development. Photographic visual simulations of the facility, depicting the existing and proposed conditions, have been prepared by the applicant and are included as Attachment No. ZA 7. 66 AT&T Small Cell SLC4653 (PA2019-115) Zoning Administrator, August 27, 2020 Page 7 Tmplt: 07/25/19 The streetlight being at the toe of a steep landscaped slope ensures that the proposed facility will not be isolated or appear out of place. The backdrop of a vegetated hillside provides adequate visual masking of the small cell facility within the project surroundings. Across Bayside Drive, approximately 50 feet west, there are residences zoned RM (Multiple Residential) with grades that are approximately five feet below the grade of the proposed facility. The RM Zoning District allows for principal structures up to 33 feet in height. The proposed project having a maximum height of 27 feet, 5 inches will be consistent with the allowable height of structures within the immediate area. While Bayside Drive is considered the first public road paralleling the sea, the project site is located on the landward side of the road and not between the first public road and the sea. The project was reviewed for consistency with the Public View Protection regulations of Section 21.49.050(B) (Public View Protection) of the NBMC. The site is not located between the first public roadway paralleling the sea, is not on a coastal bluff or canyon, is not adjacent to or within the viewshed of a public view point, coastal view road, public park or beach, or public accessway, as identified on the Coastal Land Use Plan Map 4-3 (Coastal Views), and does not contain significant natural landforms or vegetation. In accordance with NBMC Sections 20.30.100 (Public View Protection), 21.30.100 (Scenic and Visual Quality Protection), and General Plan Natural Resources Policy NR 20.3 (Public Views), the location is not located within a protected public view corridor and, therefore, would not have any impact to public views. The project scope involves the removal and replacement of an existing City streetlight in the same location with the same luminaire height. The project has been designed to blend with its surroundings and while it will still be visible, the replacement streetlight is consistent with the size, shape, style, and design of the existing pole. The proposed replacement streetlight and antenna structure will comply with the maximum allowable height limit of 35 feet from existing finished grade. The project site is located within an existing landscaped area along the roadway. No above-ground mounted equipment is proposed and the support equipment is proposed to be placed in an underground vault. All transmission equipment, including remote radio units and the raycap disconnect switch, are fully concealed within a screening shroud. There will be no negative impacts on coastal The project will not recreational facilities. 77 AT&T Small Cell SLC4653 (PA2019-115) Zoning Administrator, August 27, 2020 Page 8 Tmplt: 07/25/19 HEALTH AND SAFETY Section 332(c)(7)(B)(iv) of U.S. Code Title 47 (Telecommunications) reads, no state or local government may regulate wireless telecommunication facilitates on the basis of the perceived health effects of radio frequency (RF) emissions to the extent that the proposed facilities comply with FCC regulations concerning emissions. Submitted RF materials from the applicant demonstrate the proposal would conform with FCC Rules and Regulations. Condition of Approval No. 25 requires the applicant to comply with all applicable provisions of U.S. Code Title 47 (Telecommunications) rules and regulations, including those related to FCC Radio Frequency safety. ALTERNATIVE SITES CONSIDERED Four nearby streetlights were identified and investigated by the applicant as possible alternate locations for this small cell facility; however, all sites were found by the applicant to be not viable (see Attachment No. ZA 4). 88 AT&T Small Cell SLC4653 (PA2019-115) Zoning Administrator, August 27, 2020 Page 9 Tmplt: 07/25/19 Alternative Site #1 at City Streetlight No. SLC4652 located on the north side of Bayside Drive, approximately 530 feet north of El Paseo Drive. Alternative Site #1 is located approximately 200 feet southeast of the proposed streetlight. This location is located within the vegetated parkway and is bounded by a retaining wall on three sides. The hillside abutting this alternative site is steep and rocky. Alternative Site #1 would likely have greater construction impacts than the proposed location as the hillside would require more grading in order to accommodate an expansion of the retaining walls which allow for the replacement of the streetlight and installation of associated pull boxes. Alternative Site #2 at City Streetlight No. SLC4651 located on the north side of Bayside Drive, approximately 530 feet north of El Paseo Drive. Alternative Site #2 is located approximately 400 feet southeast of the proposed streetlight. Alternative Site #2 abuts a rocky hillside that is almost vertical in slope. The streetlight is bounded by a retaining wall on three sides. Alternative Site #2 would likely have greater construction impacts as the steeper hillside would require more grading and an expansion of the retaining walls in order to replace the streetlight and install associated pull boxes. Alternative Site #3 at City Streetlight No. SLC4654 located on the north side of Bayside Drive, approximately 1100 feet north of El Paseo Drive. Alternative Site #3 is located approximately 200 feet northwest of the proposed streetlight. The site is located within the vegetated parkway and is bounded by a retaining wall on three sides. The hillside abutting this alternative site is steep and vegetated. Alternative Site #3 would likely have greater construction impacts than the proposed location as the hillside would require more grading in order to accommodate an expansion of the retaining walls which allow for the replacement of the streetlight and installation of associated pull boxes. Alternative Site #4 at City Streetlight No. SLC4655 located on the north side of Bayside Drive, approximately 1,300 feet north of El Paseo Drive. Alternative Site #4 is located approximately 400 feet northwest of the proposed streetlight, within the same vegetated parkway, and has a backdrop of a steep hillside with vegetation and a solar panel structure. Despite having a backdrop that could help mask the small cell facility, Alternative Site #4 is located at a curve in Bayside Drive which is directly within the line of site of approaching motorists and is more visually intrusive than the proposed project site. NBMC Subsection 21.49.040(A) (Preferred Locations), such as a collocation or a Class 1 or 2 facility, would not be technically feasible from an RF or construction perspective. The analysis explained that small cell facilities are low powered and must be located at the precise location selected to serve the network traffic demands of the specific limited area. Further, this type of service cannot be 99 AT&T Small Cell SLC4653 (PA2019-115) Zoning Administrator, August 27, 2020 Page 10 Tmplt: 07/25/19 accomplished with a traditional macro collocation or building mounted site in the area. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW This project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15302 and 15303 under Class 2 (Replacement or Reconstruction) and Class 3 (New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures), respectively, of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3, because it has no potential to have a significant effect on the environment. Class 2 consists of replacement or reconstruction of existing structures and facilities where the new structure will be located on the same site as the structure replaced and will have substantially the same purpose and capacity as the structure replaced. Class 3 consists of construction and location of limited numbers of new, small facilities or structures; installation of small new equipment and facilities in small structures; and the conversion of existing small structures from one use to another where only minor modifications are made in the exterior of the structure. In this case, the proposal includes the removal and replacement of an existing City streetlight pole to install a small telecommunications wireless facility, including below- grade accessory equipment. The exceptions to the Class 3 categorical exemptions under Section 15300.2 are not applicable. The project location does not impact an environmental resource of hazardous or critical concern, does not result in cumulative impacts, does not have a significant effect on the environment due to unusual circumstances, does not damage scenic resources within a state scenic highway, is not a hazardous waste site, and is not identified as a historical resource. PUBLIC NOTICE Notice of this application was published in the Daily Pilot, mailed to all owners of property and residential occupants within 300 feet of the boundaries of the site (excluding intervening rights-of-way and waterways) including the applicant, and posted on the subject streetlight pole at least 10 days before the scheduled hearing, consistent with the provisions of the Municipal Code. Additionally, the item appeared on the agenda for this meeting, which was posted at City Hall and on the City website. APPEAL PERIOD: This action shall become final and effective 14 days following the date the Resolution is adopted unless within such time an appeal or call for review is filed with the Community Development Director in accordance with the provisions of Title 21 (Local Coastal Implementation Plan) of the Newport Beach Municipal Code. Final action taken by the City may be appealed to the Coastal Commission in compliance with Section 21.64.035 of the 10 AT&T Small Cell SLC4653 (PA2019-115) Zoning Administrator, August 27, 2020 Page 11 Tmplt: 07/25/19 City’s certified LCP and Title 14 California Code of Regulations, Sections 13111 through 13120, and Section 30603 of the Coastal Act. For additional information on filing an appeal, contact the Planning Division at 949-644-3200. Prepared by: BMZ/jp Attachments: ZA 1 Draft Resolution ZA 2 Resolution No. ZA2020-031 (UP2019-034) ZA 3 Vicinity Map ZA 4 Alternative Locations Studied and Rejected ZA 5 Coverage Maps ZA 6 Applicant’s Project Description and Justification ZA 7 Photographic Visual Simulations ZA 8 Project Plans 11 Attachment No. ZA 1 Draft Resolution 1212 RESOLUTION NO. ZA2020-### A RESOLUTION OF THE ZONING ADMINISTRATOR OF THE CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT NO. CD2020-118 FOR A SMALL CELL WIRELESS FACILITY LOCATED WITHIN THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY ON CITY STREETLIGHT NUMBER SLC4653, ON THE NORTH SIDE OF BAYSIDE DRIVE APPROXIMATELY 900 FEET NORTHWEST OF EL PASEO DRIVE (PA2019-115) THE ZONING ADMINISTRATOR OF THE CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH HEREBY FINDS AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. STATEMENT OF FACTS. 1. An application was filed by New Cingular Wireless, LLC (Applicant), with respect to City of Newport Beach Streetlight Number SLC4653, located within the public right-of-way at the north side of Bayside Drive, approximately 900 feet northwest of El Paseo Drive requesting a coastal development permit (CDP). 2. The Applicant proposes the installation of a small cell wireless facility on a City-owned streetlight pole. Project implementation will be fully contained within the public right-of-way on Bayside Drive and includes the following: (1) Removal and replacement of an existing City streetlight; (2) Installation of a small cell wireless facility that consists of four (4) remote radio units, a raycap disconnect, and an omni-directional antenna within a 12-inch diameter antenna screening shroud. This equipment would be fixed to the top of the replaced streetlight pole for a maximum height of 27 feet, 5 inches; and (3) Establishment of support equipment in an adjacent below-grade vault. 3. The streetlight pole is located within the public right-of-way. The proposal is regulated by City Council Policy L-23 (Siting of Wireless Telecommunications Equipment on City- Owned Property), as well as Newport Beach Municipal Code (NBMC) Chapter 20.49 (Wireless Telecommunication Facilities). Pursuant to Section 20.49.060 (Permit Review Procedures) of the NBMC, a minor use permit is required for this type of installation. A minor use permit (UP2019-034) for this project was previously reviewed and approved by the Zoning Administrator at a public hearing on April 16, 2020. There was no appeal filed and the Minor Use Permit is now effective. However, since that approval, it has been determined that a CDP is also required. 4. The project is located within the Coastal Zone. Subsection 21.49.020(B) (Permit and Agreement Required) of the NBMC requires a coastal development permit for a wireless telecommunication facility unless said facility is exempted by Subsection 21.49.020(C) (Exempt Facilities). In this case, the project does not meet any of the prescribed exemptions; therefore, a coastal development permit is required. 1313 Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2020-### Page 2 of 10 01-25-19 5. A telephonic public hearing was held online on August 27, 2020, observing restrictions due to the Declaration of a State Emergency and Proclamation of Local Emergency related to COVID-19. A notice of time, place and purpose of the hearing was given in accordance with the NBMC. Evidence, both written and oral, was presented to, and considered by, the Zoning Administrator at this hearing. SECTION 2. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT DETERMINATION. 1. This project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15302 and 15303 under Class 2 (Replacement or Reconstruction) and Class 3 (New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures), respectively, of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3, because it has no potential to have a significant effect on the environment. Class 2 consists of replacement or reconstruction of existing structures and facilities where the new structure will be located on the same site as the structure replaced and will have substantially the same purpose and capacity as the structure replaced. Class 3 consists of construction and location of limited numbers of new, small facilities or structures; installation of small new equipment and facilities in small structures; and the conversion of existing small structures from one use to another where only minor modifications are made in the exterior of the structure. 2. In this case, the proposal includes the removal and replacement of an existing City streetlight pole to install a small cell wireless facility, including below-grade accessory equipment. 3. The exceptions to the Class 3 categorical exemption under Section 15300.2 are not applicable. The project location does not impact an environmental resource of hazardous or critical concern, does not result in cumulative impacts, does not have a significant effect on the environment due to unusual circumstances, does not damage scenic resources within a state scenic highway, is not a hazardous waste site, and is not identified as a historical resource. SECTION 3. REQUIRED FINDINGS. In accordance with Subsection 21.52.015(F) (Coastal Development Permits, Findings and Decision) of the NBMC, the following findings and facts in support of such findings are set forth: Finding: A.Conforms to all applicable sections of the certified Local Coastal Program. Facts in Support of Finding: 1. The project is considered a Class 3 (Public Right-of-Way) installation. Section 21.49.040 (Telecom Facility Preferences and Prohibited Locations) of the NBMC lists Class 3 1414 Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2020-### Page 3 of 10 01-25-19 installations as third on the installation preference list. It is not proposed at a location that is prohibited by NBMC Subsection 21.49.040(B) (Prohibited Locations). 2. The Applicant analyzed alternative sites for the project and ultimately concluded that a more preferred location as defined by NBMC Subsection 21.49.040(A) (Preferred Locations), such as a collocation or a Class 1 or 2 facility, would not be technically feasible from an RF or construction perspective. The analysis explained that small cell facilities are low powered and must be located at the precise location selected to serve the network traffic demands of the specific limited area. Further, this type of service cannot be accomplished with a traditional macro collocation or building mounted site in the area. 3. The project site abuts a residentially zoned property however the physical residence at that property is setback from the property line approximately 115 feet and is separated from the right of way by an extremely steep slope. The slope is highly landscaped and provides visual interest and distraction from the streetlight. Given the significant grade differential and the lower setting of the streetlight, the general visibility of the proposed small cell facility is lessened for the existing development, which helps to ensure visual compatibility with the surrounding neighborhood and its residential character. Across Bayside Drive, approximately 50 feet west, there are additional residences zoned RM with grades that are approximately five feet below the grade of the proposed facility. 4. The existing streetlight is located on the inland side of a well-traveled street. The location of the existing streetlight is not within in a curve or at a bend in the road and is in line with the surrounding streetscape and existing light poles. The replacement streetlight will be installed in the same location as the existing streetlight and it will not visually protrude. 5. While Bayside Drive is considered the first public road paralleling the sea, the project site is located on the landward side of the road and not between the first public road and the sea. The project has been reviewed pursuant to Subsection 21.49.050(B) of the NBMC. It complies with Section 21.30.100 (Scenic and Visual Quality Protection) of the NBMC. The subject location is not located within the first public roadway paralleling the sea and the sea but is not between the first public roadway paralleling the sea and the sea. It is further is not on a coastal bluff or canyon, not adjacent to or within the viewshed of a public viewpoint, coastal view road, public park or beach, or public accessway, as identified on the Coastal Land Use Plan Map 4-3 (Coastal Views), and does not contain significant natural landforms or vegetation. 6. The project scope involves the removal and replacement of an existing City streetlight in the same location with the same luminaire height. The project has been designed to blend with its surroundings while it will be visible. The replacement streetlight is consistent with the size, shape, style, and design of the existing pole. No above-ground mounted equipment is proposed, and the support equipment is proposed to be placed in underground handholes. All transmission equipment, including remote radio units and the raycap disconnect switch, are fully concealed within a screening shroud. There will 1515 Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2020-### Page 4 of 10 01-25-19 be no negative impacts on coastal views or coastal resources with the p implementation. 7. The proposed replacement streetlight and antenna structure will comply with the maximum allowable height limit of 35 feet from existing finished grade. Finding: B.Conforms with the public access and public recreation policies of Chapter 3 of the Coastal Act if the project is located between the nearest public road and the sea or shoreline of any body of water located within the coastal zone . Facts in Support of Finding: 1. As discussed in Fact in Support of Finding A.5, SLC4653 is not located between the nearest public road paralleling the sea or shoreline. There is no pedestrian right-of-way or access on the north side of Bayside Drive and, as such, the project will not affect the ability to gain access to, use, and/or view the coast and nearby recreational facilities. 2. The project will allow the installation of a small cell facility that complies with all applicable Local Coastal Program (LCP) development standards and maintains development attributes consistent with the existing and anticipated future surrounding neighborhood pattern of development. Therefore, the project does not have the potential to degrade public views within the Coastal Zone. SECTION 4. DECISION. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: 1. This project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15302 and 15303 under Class 2 (Replacement or Reconstruction) and Class 3 (New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures), respectively, of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3, because it has no potential to have a significant effect on the environment. The exceptions to the Class 3 exemption do not apply. 2. The Zoning Administrator of the City of Newport Beach hereby approves Coastal Development Permit No. CD2020-118, subject to the conditions set forth in Exhibit A, which is attached hereto and incorporated by reference. 3. This action shall become final and effective 14 days following the date this Resolution was adopted unless within such time an appeal or call for review is filed with the Community Development Director in accordance with the provisions of Title 21 Local Coastal Program Implementation Plan of the NBMC. Final action taken by the City may be appealed to the Coastal Commission in compliance with Section 21.64.035 of the 1616 Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2020-### Page 5 of 10 01-25-19 NBMC and Title 14 California Code of Regulations, Sections 13111 through 13120, and Section 30603 of the Coastal Act. PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED THIS 27 TH DAY OF AUGUST, 2020. ______________________________ Jaime Murillo, Zoning Administrator 1717 Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2020-### Page 6 of 10 01-25-19 EXHIBIT A CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL Planning Division 1. The development shall be in substantial conformance with the plans, including elevation exhibits and visual simulations, stamped and dated with the date of this approval (except as modified by applicable conditions of approval). 2. The project is subject to all applicable City ordinances, policies, and standards, unless specifically waived or modified by the conditions of approval. 3. The Applicant shall comply with all federal, state, and local laws. Material violation of any of those laws in connection with the use may be cause for revocation of this approval. 4. The telecom facility approved by this permit shall comply with all applicable Federal and State rules, regulations, and standards. 5. The replacement pole shall be reconstructed in the exact location of the existing streetlight pole. 6. The reconstructed streetlight pole design shall be consistent with the size (including diameter), shape, style, and design of the existing streetlight pole to the greatest extent feasible, including the attached light arm and luminaire. All mounted equipment shall be painted to match the color and style of the replacement streetlight pole. 7. All accessory support equipment of this facility shall be installed underground. 8. All electrical and antenna wiring shall be fully encased within the reconstructed streetlight pole. 9. The telecom facility approved by the use permit shall comply with any easements, covenants, conditions, or restrictions on the underlying City-trust property upon which the facility is located. 10. Anything not specifically approved by this permit is not permitted and must be addressed in a separate and subsequent review. 11. Prior to building permit final, a Height Certification Inspection shall be required prior to final of building permits. The small cell facility and base streetlight pole approved by this permit shall not exceed a total of 27 feet, 5 inches in height from existing grade. The top of the new luminaire shall not exceed a total of 21 feet, 1 inch in height from existing grade and shall match the height and shape of the existing luminaire. 1818 Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2020-### Page 7 of 10 01-25-19 12. Prior to building permit issuance, all contractors and subcontractors shall have a valid City of Newport Beach business license. 13. The Applicant shall continually maintain the wireless telecom facility so that it retains its original appearance at the time the building permit is finaled by the City of Newport Beach. 14. On an annual basis, the Applicant shall conduct maintenance inspections of the wireless telecom facility, including the small cell facility and below-grade equipment areas, and make all necessary repairs. The Community Development Director may require additional inspections and/or maintenance activities at his/her discretion. 15. The Applicant shall not prevent the City of Newport Beach from having adequate spectrum capacity on the City's 800 MHz radio frequencies at any time. 16. The facility shall transmit at the approved frequency ranges established by the FCC. The Applicant shall inform the City in writing of any proposed changes to the frequency range in order to prevent interference with the City's Public Safety radio equipment. 17. The telecommunications facility shall at no time interfere with the frequencies used by the City of Newport Beach for public safety. advanced planning and frequency engineering measures shall prevent interference, especially in the choice of frequencies and radio ancillary hardware. This is encouraged in the "Best Practices Guide" published by the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials-International, Inc. ("APCO"), and as endorsed by the FCC. 18. Should interference with the City's Public Safety radio equipment occur, use of the telecom facility authorized by this permit may be suspended until the radio frequency interference is corrected and verification of the compliance is reported. 19. The Applicant shall provide a "single point of contact" for the carrier in its Engineering and Maintenance Departments that is monitored 24 hours per day to ensure continuity on all interference issues, and to which interference problems may be reported. The name, telephone number, fax number, and email address of that person shall be provided to the Community Development Department and Newport Beach Police Department's Support Services Commander prior to activation of the facility. If the point of contact changes, the City shall be immediately alerted and updated. 20. No advertising signage or identifying logos shall be displayed on the telecom facility except for small identification, address, warning, and similar information plates. A detail of the information plates depicting the language on the plate shall be included in the plans submitted for issuance of building permits. 21. Appropriate information warning signs or plates shall be posted on the base streetlight pole of the transmitting antenna. In addition, contact information (e.g., a telephone number) shall be provided on the warning signs or plates. The location of the information warning signs or plates shall be depicted on the plans submitted for construction permits. 1919 Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2020-### Page 8 of 10 01-25-19 Signage required by State or federal regulations shall be allowed in its smallest permissible size. 22. Prior to the final of building permits, the Applicant shall schedule an evening inspection by the Code Enforcement Division to confirm compliance with lighting. The telecom facility shall be lighted to the extent deemed necessary by the Newport Beach Police and Utilities Departments for security lighting and consistency with other streetlights in the area. 23. The Applicant shall maintain the telecom facility in a manner consistent with this approval. 24. The Applicant shall ensure that its telecom facility complies with the most current regulatory, operations standards, and radio frequency emissions standards adopted by the FCC. The Applicant shall be responsible for obtaining and maintaining the most current information from the FCC regarding allowable radio frequency emissions and all other applicable regulations and standards. This information shall be made available by the Applicant upon request of the Community Development Director. 25. The facility shall comply with all applicable provisions of U.S. Code Title 47 (Telecommunications) rules and regulations, including those related to FCC Radio Frequency safety. 26. Prior to final of building permits, the Applicant shall schedule an inspection by the Planning Division to ensure materials and colors match existing architecture as illustrated in the approved photographic simulations and in conformance with NBMC Section 21.49.050. 27. Any operator who intends to abandon or discontinue use of a telecom facility must notify the Planning Division by certified mail no less than thirty (30) days prior to such action. The operator shall have ninety (90) days from the date of abandonment or discontinuance to reactivate use of the facility, or remove the telecom facility and restore the site. 28. The City reserves the right and jurisdiction to review and modify any permit approved pursuant to NBMC Chapter 21.49, including the conditions of approval, based on changed circumstances. The operator shall notify the Planning Division of any proposal to change the height or size of the facility; increase the size, shape, or number of antennas; change the facility's color or materials or location on the site; or increase the signal output above the maximum permissible exposure ("MPE") limits imposed by the radio frequency emissions guidelines of the FCC. Any changed circumstance shall require the operator to apply for a review of the modification, and possible amendment to the use permit, prior to implementing any change. 29. Costal Development Permit No. CD2020-118 shall expire unless exercised within 24 months from the date of approval as specified in Section 21.54.060 (Time Limits and Extensions) of the NBMC unless an extension is otherwise granted. 2020 Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2020-### Page 9 of 10 01-25-19 30. Construction activities shall comply with NBMC Section 10.28.040, which restricts hours of noise-generating construction activities that produce noise to between the hours of 7 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Noise-generating construction activities are not allowed on Saturdays, Sundays or holidays. 31. This approval may be modified or revoked by the Zoning Administrator if determined that the proposed uses or conditions under which it is being operated or maintained is detrimental to the public health, welfare or materially injurious to property or improvements in the vicinity or if the property is operated or maintained so as to constitute a public nuisance. 32. A copy of the Resolution, including conditions of approval Exhibit A, and approved drawings from Southern California Edison (SCE) for the power supply and design, shall be incorporated into the Building Division and field sets of plans prior to issuance of the building permits. 33. The Applicant is responsible for compliance with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). In compliance with the MBTA, grading, brush removal, building demolition, tree trimming, and similar construction activities shall occur between August 16 and January 31, outside of the peak nesting period. If such activities must occur inside the peak nesting season from February 1 to August 15, compliance with the following is required to prevent the taking of Native Birds pursuant to MBTA: A. The construction area shall be inspected for active nests. If birds are observed flying from a nest or sitting on a nest, it can be assumed that the nest is active. Construction activity within 300 feet of an active nest shall be delayed until the nest is no longer active. Continue to observe the nest until the chicks have left the nest and activity is no longer observed. When the nest is no longer active, construction activity can continue in the nest area. B. It is a violation of state and federal law to kill or harm a native bird. To ensure compliance, consider hiring a biologist to assist with the survey for nesting birds, and to determine when it is safe to commence construction activities. If an active nest is found, one or two short follow-up surveys will be necessary to check on the nest and determine when the nest is no longer active. 34. The Applicant shall promptly notify the City if the landscaped parkway of the subject streetlight pole is negatively affected or otherwise damaged by project implementation. 35. The applicant shall replace any privately installed landscaping disturbed as a result of the telecom installation. Any removed landscaping shall be replaced with the same species and size, wherever feasible, and provided the replacement is in compliance with any applicable encroachment agreements. 2121 Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2020-### Page 10 of 10 01-25-19 36. To the fullest extent permitted by law, Applicant shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless City, its City Council, its boards and commissions, officials, officers, employees, and agents from and against any and all claims, demands, obligations, damages, actions, causes of action, suits, losses, judgments, fines, penalties, liabilities, costs and expenses (including without limitation, attorney s fees, disbursements and court costs) of every kind and nature whatsoever which may arise from or in any manner relate (directly or indirectly) to City s approval of AT&T Small Cell SLC4653, including, but not limited to, Coastal Development Permit No. CD2020-118 (PA2019-115). This indemnification shall include, but not be limited to, damages awarded against the City, if any, costs of suit, attorneys' fees, and other expenses incurred in connection with such claim, action, causes of action, suit or proceeding whether incurred by Applicant, City, and/or the parties initiating or bringing such proceeding. The Applicant shall indemnify the City for all of City's costs, attorneys' fees, and damages which City incurs in enforcing the indemnification provisions set forth in this condition. The Applicant shall pay to the City upon demand any amount owed to the City pursuant to the indemnification requirements prescribed in this condition. Public Works Department 37. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, an encroachment permit shall be required. 38. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, traffic control plans illustrating compliance with the 2016 WATCHBook requirements shall be reviewed and approved by the Public Works Department before their implementation. Large construction vehicles shall not be permitted to travel narrow streets as determined by the Public Works Department. Disruption caused by construction work along roadways and by movement of construction vehicles shall be minimized by proper use of traffic control equipment and flagman. 2222 Tmplt: 07/25/19 Attachment No. ZA 2 Resolution No. ZA2020-031 (UP2019-034) 2323 RESOLUTION NO. ZA2020-031 A RESOLUTION OF THE ZONING ADMINISTRATOR OF THE CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING MINOR USE PERMIT NO. UP2019-034 FOR A SMALL CELL FACILITY LOCATED WITHIN THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY ON CITY STREETLIGHT NUMBER SLC4653, ON THE NORTH SIDE OF BAYSIDE DRIVE, APPROXIMATELY 900 FEET NORTH OF EL PASEO DRIVE (PA2019-115). THE ZONING ADMINISTRATOR OF THE CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH HEREBY FINDS AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. STATEMENT OF FACTS. 1. An application was filed by New Cingular Wireless, LLC d.b.a. AT&T Mobility (“Applicant”), with respect to City of Newport Beach Streetlight Number 4653, located within the public right-of-way, on the north side of Bayside Drive approximately 900 feet northwest of El Paseo Drive, requesting approval of a minor use permit. 2. The Applicant proposes the installation of a small cell wireless facility on a City-owned streetlight pole. Project implementation will be fully contained within the public right-of- way on Bayside Drive and includes the following: 1) Removal and replacement of an existing City streetlight; (2) Installation of a small cell wireless facility that consists of four remote radio units, a raycap disconnect, and an omni-directional antenna within a 12- inch diameter equipment shroud. This equipment would be fixed to the top of the replaced streetlight pole for a maximum height of 27 feet, 5 inches; and (3) Establishment of new below-grade support equipment adjacent to the streetlight. . 3. The streetlight is located within the public right-of-way. The proposal is regulated by Council Policy L-23 (Siting of Wireless Telecommunications Equipment on City-Owned Property), as well as Newport Beach Municipal Code (NBMC) Chapter 20.49 (Wireless Telecommunication Facilities). 4. The project site is located within the coastal zone. It is not located between the first public roadway paralleling the sea and the sea. The removal and installation of an existing streetlight pole is exempt from the requirements of a coastal development permit pursuant to Section 21.50.035(C)(4) (Repair and Maintenance) of the NBMC. In consultation with Coastal Commission staff, the modification of a streetlight for a small cell facility remains exempt, provided there is no visual resource impact. The project was reviewed for consistency with the Public View Protection regulations of Section 21.49.050(B) (Public View Protection) of the NBMC. The subject location is not on a coastal bluff or canyon, not adjacent to or within the viewshed of a public viewpoint, coastal view road, public park or beach, or public accessway, as identified on the Coastal Land Use Plan Map 4-3 (Coastal Views), and does not contain significant natural landforms or vegetation. The project scope involves the removal and replacement of an existing City streetlight in the same location with the same luminaire height. The project has been designed to blend within the existing streetscape. The 2424 Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2020-031 Page 2 of 15 01-25-19 replacement streetlight is consistent with the size, shape, style, and design of the existing pole. No above ground mounted equipment is proposed and the support equipment is proposed to be placed in underground handholes. All transmission equipment, including remote radio units and the raycap disconnect switch, are fully concealed within a screening shroud. The installation of a small cell wireless facility will not have an impact on coastal views or coastal resources; therefore, a coastal development permit is not required. 5. A public hearing was held on April 16, 2020, in the Community Room at 100 Civic Center Drive, Newport Beach. A notice of time, place and purpose of the hearing was given in accordance with the NBMC. Evidence, both written and oral, was presented to, and considered by, the Zoning Administrator at this hearing. SECTION 2. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT DETERMINATION. 1. This project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15302 and 15303 under Class 2 (Replacement or Reconstruction) and Class 3 (New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures), respectively, of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3, because it has no potential to have a significant effect on the environment. Class 2 consists of replacement or reconstruction of existing structures and facilities where the new structure will be located on the same site as the structure replaced and will have substantially the same purpose and capacity as the structure replaced. Class 3 consists of construction and location of limited numbers of new, small facilities or structures; installation of small new equipment and facilities in small structures; and the conversion of existing small structures from one use to another where only minor modifications are made in the exterior of the structure. 2. In this case, the proposal includes the removal and replacement of an existing City streetlight pole to install a small telecommunications wireless facility, including below- grade accessory equipment. 3. The exceptions to the Class 3 categorical exemption under Section 15300.2 are not applicable. The project location does not impact an environmental resource of hazardous or critical concern, does not result in cumulative impacts, does not have a significant effect on the environment due to unusual circumstances, does not damage scenic resources within a state scenic highway, is not a hazardous waste site, and is not identified as a historical resource. SECTION 3. REQUIRED FINDINGS. Minor Use Permit In accordance with NBMC Subsection 20.52.020(F) (Conditional Use Permits and Minor Use Permits), the following findings and facts in support of such findings are set forth: Finding: 2525 Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2020-031 Page 3 of 15 01-25-19 A. The use is consistent with the General Plan and any applicable specific plan. Facts in Support of Finding: 1. The project site is designated as Public Right-of-Way (ROW), which is property held in trust by the City, and allows for the construction and maintenance of public roads, crosswalks, pedestrian walkways, electric transmission lines, oil or gas pipeline, water line, sanitary or storm sewer, or other similar uses. City Council Policy L-23 (Siting of Wireless Telecommunications Equipment on City-Owned Property) governs procedures and locations for siting wireless telecommunications equipment in the ROW. Streetlights are eligible for telecom use, subject to entitlements (such as this minor use permit request), yearly rent, and a license agreement. 2. General Plan Natural Resources Goal NR 21 recommends the “minimized visual impacts of signs and utilities.” The proposed design is consistent with NR 21 by introducing no new vertical obstructions in the ROW, employing stealth elements like colorization (painting to match the streetlight pole), and installing the associated equipment below grade. Conditions of Approval No. 20 and 21 prohibit advertising signage or identifying logos on any telecom facility except for small identification, address, warning, and similar information plates. Signage required by State or Federal regulations shall be allowed in its smallest permissible size. 3. General Plan Land Use Policy LU 6.1.3 promotes “architecture and planning that complements adjoining uses.” The proposed design adjoins residential uses and aligns with LU 6.1.3 by copying the size, shape, style, and design of the existing streetlight pole to decrease potential disruption of the visual environment. Adverse impact to circulation, aesthetics, sounds, or odor are not anticipated from project implementation. 4. General Plan Land Use Policy LU 4 calls for the “management of growth and change to protect and enhance the livability of neighborhoods and achieve distinct and economically vital business and employment districts, which are correlated with supporting infrastructure and public services and sustain Newport Beach’s natural setting.” The proposed small cell facility upholds the intent of LU 4 by providing infrastructure to add system capacity for service gaps that may occur for residents and businesses of the area in regular and high demand periods. It also benefits the community by improving the existing coverage and capacity to increase the voice and data system already in use by its customers. The facility is designed to adapt and accept future technologies, such as 5G, and will help meet local demand and sustain the livability of the area. 5. The project site is not located within a specific plan area Finding: B. The use is allowed within the applicable zoning district and complies with all other applicable provisions of this Zoning Code and the Municipal Code. 2626 Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2020-031 Page 4 of 15 01-25-19 Facts in Support of Finding: 1. See Fact in Support of Finding A.1. 2. Wireless telecommunication facilities are regulated by NBMC Chapter 20.49 (Wireless Telecommunication Facilities). To site small cell equipment in the ROW assigns the project a Class 3 specification (Public Right-of-Way Installations) and requires the Applicant to obtain a minor use permit from the Zoning Administrator (NBMC Section 20.49.060 [Permit Review Procedures]). 3. NBMC Subsection 20.49.040(A) (Preferred Locations) prioritizes telecom facilities from most preferred (1) to least preferred (4) as follows: (1) collocation of a new facility at an existing facility; (2) Class 1 Stealth/Screened); (3) Class 2 (Visible Antennas), Class 3 (Public Right-of-Way); and (4) Class 4 (Freestanding Structure). Although lower on the listing of priority facilities, the proposed facility consists of one (1) small cell facility that is designed to not visually dominate the surrounding area and instead to blend into the existing block. 4. NBMC Section 20.49.050 (General Development and Design Standards) requires projects to be visually compatible with surrounding structures. In reviewing this application, the Zoning Administrator shall consider the proposed facility’s use of color blending, equipment screening, and the limited size of the equipment designed consistently with the aforementioned criteria. All telecommunications equipment on top of the streetlight pole would be concealed within a painted-to-match 12-inch diameter shroud. The proposed small cell facility would rely on likeness with the streetlight pole through style, color, and material to help disguise its presence. Engineering of the replacement streetlight pole accommodates and withstands the weight of the small cell equipment and has ability to display a future City banner, if needed. Electrical and wiring components of the telecommunications equipment are designed to be fully contained within the new streetlight pole. The overall height of 27-feet, 5-inches from finished grade to the top of the proposed facility complies with the maximum allowed. Equipment not contained within the shroud on the streetlight pole would be out of sight, located below the ground in the adjacent ROW. Condition of Approval No. 32 requires approved design drawings from Southern California Edison (SCE) for the power supply to the small cell facility before construction of the facility is to commence. 5. Existing residential properties contiguous to the north of the site are in the R-1 (Single- Unit Residential) Zoning District. R-1-zoned sites allow for principal dwellings up to 29 feet in height and for sloped roof elements with a minimum 3:12 pitch. The existing residences across Bayside Drive to the southwest are zoned RM and are allowed a maximum height of up to 33 feet for sloped roof elements with a minimum 3:12 pitch. The height of the existing streetlight SLC4653 sits well below the grade of the adjacent R-1 residences. The streetlight is separated from the residences by a steep, landscaped, downslope. Given the grade differential, the lower setting of the streetlight lessens visual obtrusion from the proposed small cell facility with the line of the existing 2727 Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2020-031 Page 5 of 15 01-25-19 development. Photographic visual simulations of the facility, depicting the existing and proposed conditions, have been prepared by the Applicant. 6. The streetlight being at the toe of a steep landscaped slope ensures that the proposed equipment will not be isolated or out of place. The backdrop of a steep, vegetated, hillside provides adequate visual masking of the small cell facility into the project surroundings. 7. Submitted materials from the Applicant demonstrate the proposal would conform with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and Regulations regarding safety and radio frequency emissions. 8. The proposed telecom facility will comply with applicable requirements of the NBMC with construction as shown on the plans and implementation of the conditions of approval. Finding: C. The design, location, size, and operating characteristics of the use are compatible with the allowed uses in the vicinity. Facts in Support of Finding: 1. City of Newport Beach Streetlight No. SLC4653 is located within a vegetated area within the public right-of-way along Bayside Drive, approximately 900 feet north of the intersection of Bayside Drive and El Paseo Drive. Single- and multi-family residential developments populate the site’s surrounding area more broadly. 2. Under the new FCC Order, wireless providers are not required to demonstrate a significant coverage gap, a qualification previously required by local jurisdictions in order to support an application. Pursuant to the Order, the City cannot “materially [inhibit] the introduction of new services or the improvement of existing services.” Moreover, pursuant to Section 332(c)(7)(B)(i)(II) of U.S. Code Title 47 (Telecommunications), the City may “not regulate the placement, construction or modification of wireless service facilities in a manner that prohibits the provision of personal wireless services.” Although not required, the Applicant produced a coverage map for the project. This map indicates the proposed facility would boost the supply of capacity and coverage in the vicinity. 3. SLC4653 serves as a part of the City’s existing streetlight inventory. AT&T proposes to remove and replace SLC4653 with a new streetlight in the same location while maintaining the existing luminaire height of 21 feet, 1-inch. The telecommunications equipment will be installed on top of the new streetlight pole resulting in an overall height of 27 feet, 5 inches. All supporting equipment will be installed below-grade adjacent to the streetlight, within the public right-of-way. 4. The replacement streetlight pole design is consistent with the size, shape, style, and design of that existing, including the attached light arm and luminaire. For safety and 2828 Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2020-031 Page 6 of 15 01-25-19 circulation of the area during construction, Condition of Approval No. 40 requires traffic control plans illustrating compliance with the 2016 watchbook to be reviewed and approved by the Public Works Department prior to the issuance of any building permit. 5. The proposed telecom facility is anticipated to enhance coverage and capacity for residents, visitors and businesses in the neighborhood by providing wireless access to voice and data transmission services. The proposed telecom facility is not expected to result in any material changes to the character of the local community. 6. See Facts in Support of Finding B.4, B.5, and B.6. 7. The proposed facility will be unmanned, will have no impact on the circulation system, and, as conditioned, will not generate noise, odor, smoke, or any other adverse impacts to adjacent land uses. Finding: D. The site is physically suitable in terms of design, location, shape, size, operating characteristics, and the provision of public and emergency vehicle (e.g., fire and medical) access and public services and utilities. Facts in Support of Finding: 1. Adequate public and emergency vehicle access, public services, and utilities are provided to and around the subject site and the proposed use will not change this. 2. The proposed facility will be unmanned and will have no permanent impact on the circulation system and adjacent land uses due to its location in the parkway, outside of existing vehicle or pedestrian circulation areas. 3. The Public Works Department and Utilities Department have reviewed the project proposal and do not have any concerns regarding access, public services, or utilities provided to the existing neighborhood and surrounding area. Finding: E. Operation of the use at the location proposed would not be detrimental to the harmonious and orderly growth of the City, nor endanger, jeopardize, or otherwise constitute a hazard to the public convenience, health, interest, safety, or general welfare of persons residing or working in the neighborhood of the proposed use. Facts in Support of Finding: 1. The proposed facility will only require periodic maintenance and will not generate any type of significant adverse impacts to the environment, such as noise, odor, smoke, etc. 2929 Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2020-031 Page 7 of 15 01-25-19 2. The proposed facility must and will comply with the applicable Federal and State rules, regulations and standards thus, ensuring public health and safety. 3. See Facts in Support of Finding B.4, B.5, B.6, B.7, and B.8. 4. The proposed telecom facility will be effectively blended based upon the design and location with the incorporation of the conditions of approval to the greatest extent feasible. As a result, the proposed facility at this location is not expected to result in conditions that are materially detrimental to nearby property owners, residents, and businesses, nor to public health or safety. Wireless Telecommunications Facility In accordance with NBMC Subsection 20.49.060(H)(1) (General Findings for Telecom Facilities), the following additional findings and facts in support of such findings are set forth: Finding: F. The proposed telecom facility is visually compatible with the surrounding neighborhood. Facts in Support of Finding: 1. See Facts in Support of Finding B.4, B.5, and B.6. 2. The project site is located immediately adjacent to a residentially zoned property to the northeast however the physical residence at that property is setback from the property line approximately 115 feet and is separated from the right of way by a steep slope. Across Bayside Drive, approximately 50 feet west, there are additional residences zoned RM with grades that are approximately five feet below the grade of the proposed facility. The proposed replacement streetlight is located along the inland side of a well- traveled street and will blend in with the surrounding streetscape, existing light poles, and vegetated steep hillside. There are no public parks near the proposed project. The proposed facility and below-grade accessory equipment meets the City’s design parameters approved by the City’s Master License Agreement, which emphasizes stealth techniques and best practices to not be materially detrimental to the surrounding area. Finding: G. The proposed telecom facility complies with height, location and design standards, as provided for in this chapter. Facts in Support of Finding: 1. The 27-foot, 5-inch tall small cell facility would comply with the maximum height limit of 35 feet for telecom facilities installed on streetlights within the public right-of-way. 3030 Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2020-031 Page 8 of 15 01-25-19 2. See Facts in Support of Finding B in its entirety. 3. The application includes documentation indicating the need to provide and improve coverage to the residential areas within the City of Newport Beach. Moreover, the additional system capacity provided by the proposed facility will address service gaps that occur during high demand periods, as well as service gaps that exist at all demand periods to the surrounding area. The proposed small cell site will help AT&T to meet its coverage objectives and improve coverage to nearby areas that are currently marginal. Finding: H. An alternative site(s) located further from a residential district, public park or public facility cannot feasibly fulfill the coverage needs fulfilled by the installation at the proposed site. Facts in Support of Finding: 1. See Fact in Support of Finding C.2. 2. Four alternative streetlights neighboring the project were identified and investigated by the Applicant, but both sites were found not practicable. 3. Alternative Site #1 at City Streetlight No. SLC4652 is located approximately 200 feet southeast of the proposed streetlight. This location is also along the northside of Bayside Drive, in the vegetated parkway, and is bounded by a retaining wall on three sides. Alternative Site #1 would likely have greater construction impacts than the proposed location as the hillside would require more grading in order to accommodate an expansion of the retaining walls which allow for the replacement of the streetlight and installation of associated pull boxes. 4. Alternative Site #2 at City Streetlight No. SLC4651 is located approximately 400 feet southeast of the proposed streetlight. This location is also along the northside of Bayside Drive. Alternative Site #2 abuts a rocky hillside that is almost vertical in slope. The streetlight is bounded by a retaining wall on three sides. Alternative Site #2 would likely have greater construction impacts as the steeper hillside would require more grading and an expansion of the retaining walls in order to replace the streetlight and install associated pull boxes. 5. Alternative Site #3 at City Streetlight No. SLC4654 is located approximately 200 feet northwest of the proposed streetlight. This location is also along the northside of Bayside Drive. The site is located within the vegetated parkway and is bounded by a retaining wall on three sides. The hillside abutting this alternative site is steep and vegetated. Alternative Site #3 would likely have greater construction impacts than the proposed location as the hillside would require more grading in order to accommodate an expansion of the retaining walls which allow for the replacement of the streetlight and installation of associated pull boxes. 3131 Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2020-031 Page 9 of 15 01-25-19 6. Alternative Site #4 at City Streetlight No. SLC4655 is located approximately 400 feet northwest of the proposed streetlight and similarly located at the base of a residential hillside. However, unique to this site is that the alternative streetlight location would be near a bend in the Bayside Drive roadway. An installation at this location would be in the direct line of sight to motorist and pedestrians traveling along Bayside Drive and would appear more visible due to the solar installation in the background view. As a result, this location is less desirable than the proposed location which is located on a straighter segment of the Bayside Drive roadway, minimizing a direct line of sight to travelers on the public roadway and would allow the facility to blend with the hillside landscaping. Finding: I. An alternative plan that would result in a higher preference facility class category for the proposed facility is not available or reasonably feasible and desirable under the circumstances. Facts in Support of Finding: 1. See Fact in Support of Finding C.2. 2. AT&T’s analysis concluded that a more preferred location as defined by NBMC Subsection 20.49.040(A) (Preferred Locations), such as a collocation or a Class 1 or 2 facility, would not be technically feasible from an RF or construction perspective. The analysis explained that small cell facilities are low powered and must be located at the precise location selected to serve the network traffic demands of the specific limited area. Further, this type of service cannot be accomplished with a traditional macro collocation or building mounted site in the area. SECTION 4. DECISION. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: 1. This project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15302 and 15303 under Class 2 (Replacement or Reconstruction) and Class 3 (New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures), respectively, of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3, because it has no potential to have a significant effect on the environment. The exceptions to the Class 3 exemption do not apply. 2. The Zoning Administrator of the City of Newport Beach hereby approves Minor Use Permit No. UP2019-034, subject to the conditions set forth in “Exhibit A,” which is attached hereto and incorporated by reference. 3. This action shall become final and effective 14 days following the date this Resolution was adopted unless within such time an appeal or call for review is filed with the 3232 Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2020-031 Page 10 of 15 01-25-19 Community Development Director in accordance with the provisions of NBMC Title 20 Planning and Zoning. PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED THIS 16TH OF APRIL, 2020. 3333 Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2020-031 Page 11 of 15 01-25-19 EXHIBIT “A” CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL Planning Division 1. The development shall be in substantial conformance with the plans, including elevation exhibits and visual simulations, stamped and dated with the date of this approval (except as modified by applicable conditions of approval). 2. The project is subject to all applicable City ordinances, policies, and standards, unless specifically waived or modified by the conditions of approval. 3. The Applicant shall comply with all federal, state, and local laws. Material violation of any of those laws in connection with the use may be cause for revocation of this Use Permit. 4. The telecom facility approved by this permit shall comply with all applicable Federal and State rules, regulations, and standards. 5. The replacement pole shall be reconstructed in the exact location of the existing streetlight pole. 6. The reconstructed street light pole design shall be consistent with the size (including diameter), shape, style, and design of the existing streetlight pole to the greatest extent feasible, including the attached light arm and luminaire. All mounted equipment shall be painted to match the color and style of the replacement streetlight pole. 7. All accessory support equipment of this facility shall be installed underground. 8. All electrical and antenna wiring shall be fully encased within the reconstructed streetlight pole. 9. The telecom facility approved by the use permit shall comply with any easements, covenants, conditions, or restrictions on the underlying City-trust property upon which the facility is located. 10. Anything not specifically approved by this permit is not permitted and must be addressed in a separate and subsequent review. 11. Prior to building permit final, a Height Certification Inspection shall be required prior to final of building permits. The small cell facility and base streetlight pole approved by this permit shall not exceed a total of 27 feet, 5-inches (27’ 5”) in height from existing grade (maximum elevation height of 42.06 feet above mean sea level using the North American Vertical Datum of 1988 [NAVD88]). 3434 Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2020-031 Page 12 of 15 01-25-19 12. Prior to building permit issuance, all contractors and subcontractors shall have a valid City of Newport Beach business license. 13. The Applicant shall continually maintain the wireless telecom facility so that it retains its original appearance at the time the building permit is finaled by the City of Newport Beach. 14. On an annual basis, the Applicant shall conduct maintenance inspections of the wireless telecom facility, including the small cell facility and below-grade equipment areas, and make all necessary repairs. The Community Development Director may require additional inspections and/or maintenance activities at his/her discretion. 15. The Applicant shall not prevent the City of Newport Beach from having adequate spectrum capacity on the City's 800 MHz radio frequencies at any time. 16. The facility shall transmit at the approved frequency ranges established by the FCC. The Applicant shall inform the City in writing of any proposed changes to the frequency range in order to prevent interference with the City's Public Safety radio equipment. 17. The telecommunications facility shall at no time interfere with the frequencies used by the City of Newport Beach for public safety. “Comprehensive advanced planning and frequency coordination” engineering measures shall prevent interference, especially in the choice of frequencies and radio ancillary hardware. This is encouraged in the "Best Practices Guide" published by the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials-International, Inc. ("APCO"), and as endorsed by the FCC. 18. Should interference with the City's Public Safety radio equipment occur, use of the telecom facility authorized by this permit may be suspended until the radio frequency interference is corrected and verification of the compliance is reported. 19. The Applicant shall provide a "single point of contact" for the carrier in its Engineering and Maintenance Departments that is monitored 24 hours per day to ensure continuity on all interference issues, and to which interference problems may be reported. The name, telephone number, fax number, and email address of that person shall be provided to the Community Development Department and Newport Beach Police Department's Support Services Commander prior to activation of the facility. If the point of contact changes, the City shall be immediately alerted and updated. 20. No advertising signage or identifying logos shall be displayed on the telecom facility except for small identification, address, warning, and similar information plates. A detail of the information plates depicting the language on the plate shall be included in the plans submitted for issuance of building permits. 21. Appropriate information warning signs or plates shall be posted on the base streetlight pole of the transmitting antenna. In addition, contact information (e.g., a telephone number) shall be provided on the warning signs or plates. The location of the information warning signs or plates shall be depicted on the plans submitted for construction permits. 3535 Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2020-031 Page 13 of 15 01-25-19 Signage required by State or federal regulations shall be allowed in its smallest permissible size. 22. Prior to the final of building permits, the Applicant shall schedule an evening inspection by the Code Enforcement Division to confirm compliance with lighting. The telecom facility shall be lighted to the extent deemed necessary by the Newport Beach Police and Utilities Departments for security lighting and consistency with other streetlights in the area. 23. The Applicant shall maintain the telecom facility in a manner consistent with this approval. 24. The Applicant shall ensure that its telecom facility complies with the most current regulatory, operations standards, and radio frequency emissions standards adopted by the FCC. The Applicant shall be responsible for obtaining and maintaining the most current information from the FCC regarding allowable radio frequency emissions and all other applicable regulations and standards. This information shall be made available by the Applicant upon request of the Community Development Director. 25. The facility shall comply with all applicable provisions of U.S. Code Title 47 (Telecommunications) rules and regulations, including those related to FCC Radio Frequency safety. 26. Prior to final of building permits, the Applicant shall schedule an inspection by the Planning Division to ensure materials and colors match existing architecture as illustrated in the approved photographic simulations and in conformance with NBMC Section 20.49.050. 27. Any operator who intends to abandon or discontinue use of a telecom facility must notify the Planning Division by certified mail no less than thirty (30) days prior to such action. The operator shall have ninety (90) days from the date of abandonment or discontinuance to reactivate use of the facility, or remove the telecom facility and restore the site. 28. The City reserves the right and jurisdiction to review and modify any permit approved pursuant to NBMC Chapter 20.49, including the conditions of approval, based on changed circumstances. The operator shall notify the Planning Division of any proposal to change the height or size of the facility; increase the size, shape, or number of antennas; change the facility's color or materials or location on the site; or increase the signal output above the maximum permissible exposure ("MPE") limits imposed by the radio frequency emissions guidelines of the FCC. Any changed circumstance shall require the operator to apply for a review of the modification, and possible amendment to the use permit, prior to implementing any change. 29. Use Permit No. UP2019-034 shall expire unless exercised within 24 months from the date of approval as specified in NBMC Section 20.54.060 (Time Limits and Extensions), unless an extension is otherwise granted. 3636 Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2020-031 Page 14 of 15 01-25-19 30. Construction activities shall comply with NBMC Section 10.28.040, which restricts hours of noise-generating construction activities that produce noise to between the hours of 7 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Saturday. Noise-generating construction activities are not allowed on Sundays or holidays. 31. This Use Permit may be modified or revoked by the Zoning Administrator if determined that the proposed uses or conditions under which it is being operated or maintained is detrimental to the public health, welfare or materially injurious to property or improvements in the vicinity or if the property is operated or maintained so as to constitute a public nuisance. 32. A copy of the Resolution, including conditions of approval Exhibit “A,” and approved drawings from Southern California Edison (SCE) for the power supply and design, shall be incorporated into the Building Division and field sets of plans prior to issuance of the building permits. 33. The Applicant shall promptly notify the City if the landscaped parkway of the subject streetlight pole is negatively affected or otherwise damaged by project implementation. 34. To the fullest extent permitted by law, Applicant shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless City, its City Council, its boards and commissions, officials, officers, employees, and agents from and against any and all claims, demands, obligations, damages, actions, causes of action, suits, losses, judgments, fines, penalties, liabilities, costs and expenses (including without limitation, attorney’s fees, disbursements and court costs) of every kind and nature whatsoever which may arise from or in any manner relate (directly or indirectly) to City’s approval of AT&T Small Cell SLC4654, including, but not limited to, Minor Use Permit No. UP2019-034 (PA2019-115). This indemnification shall include, but not be limited to, damages awarded against the City, if any, costs of suit, attorneys' fees, and other expenses incurred in connection with such claim, action, causes of action, suit or proceeding whether incurred by Applicant, City, and/or the parties initiating or bringing such proceeding. The Applicant shall indemnify the City for all of City's costs, attorneys' fees, and damages which City incurs in enforcing the indemnification provisions set forth in this condition. The Applicant shall pay to the City upon demand any amount owed to the City pursuant to the indemnification requirements prescribed in this condition. Public Works Department 35. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, an encroachment permit shall be required. 36. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, traffic control plans illustrating compliance with the 2016 watchbook requirements shall be reviewed and approved by the Public Works Department before their implementation. Large construction vehicles shall not be permitted to travel narrow streets as determined by the Public Works Department. Disruption caused by construction work along roadways and by movement of 3737 Zoning Administrator Resolution No. ZA2020-031 Page 15 of 15 01-25-19 construction vehicles shall be minimized by proper use of traffic control equipment and flagman. Additional Conditions of Approval 37. The applicant is responsible for compliance with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). In compliance with the (MBTA), grading, brush removal, building demolition, tree trimming, and similar construction activities shall occur between August 16 and January 31, outside of the peak nesting period. If such activities must occur inside the peak nesting season from February 1 to August 15, compliance with the following is required to prevent the taking of Native Birds pursuant to MBTA: A. The construction area shall be inspected for active nests. If birds are observed flying from a nest or sitting on a nest, it can be assumed that the nest is active. Construction activity within 300 feet of an active nest shall be delayed until the nest is no longer active. Continue to observe the nest until the chicks have left the nest and activity is no longer observed. When the nest is no longer active, construction activity can continue in the nest area. B. It is a violation of state and federal law to kill or harm a native bird. To ensure compliance, consider hiring a biologist to assist with the survey for nesting birds, and to determine when it is safe to commence construction activities. If an active nest is found, one or two short follow-up surveys will be necessary to check on the nest and determine when the nest is no longer active. 38. The applicant shall replace any privately installed landscaping disturbed as a result of the telecom installation. Any removed landscaping shall be replaced with the same species and size, wherever feasible, and provided the replacement is in compliance with any applicable encroachment agreements. 3838 Attachment No. ZA 3 Vicinity Map 3939 VICINITY MAP Coastal Development Permit No. CD2020-118 PA2019-115 Public Right-of-Way, City Streetlight Number SLC4653, on the north side of Bayside Drive approximately 900 feet northwest of El Paseo Drive Subject Streetlight 4040 Tmplt: 07/25/19 Attachment No. ZA 4 Alternative Locations Studied and Rejected 4141 4242 4343 4444 4545 4646 4747 4848 4949 5050 5151 Attachment No. ZA 5 Coverage Maps 5252 5353 5454 5555 Attachment No. ZA 6 Justification 5656 5757 5858 5959 Attachment No. ZA 7 Photographic Visual Simulations 6060 6161 6262 6363 Attachment No. ZA 8 Project Plans 6464 6565 6666 6767 6868 6969 7070 7171 7272 7373 7474 7575 7676 7777 7878 7979 8080 8181 8282 8383 8484 8585 August 27, 2020, Zoning Administrator Agenda Comments Comments submitted by: Jim Mosher ( jimmosher@yahoo.com ), 2210 Private Road, Newport Beach 92660 (949-548-6229) Item 3. AT&T Small Cell SLC4653 Coastal Development Permit No. CD2020-118 (PA2019-115) As the Zoning Administrator is undoubtedly aware, the statement in Section 1.3 of the proposed resolution that “There was no appeal filed” might strike many as incomplete. A call for review was, indeed, filed and a hearing scheduled before the Planning Commission, but that hearing was not held as the filing of the call for review was ultimately deemed one day late. I believe public correspondence was also received at the April 16, 2020, Zoning Administrator hearing, where consideration of the Minor Use Permit for this project was Item 4. Although copies of that correspondence do not appear to have been included in the staff report, it would seem to me it remains relevant to the present decision, given the close parallels between many of the code requirements for granting the MUP and the CDP. In April, I was concerned about what seemed to me to have been inadequate consideration of Alternative Site #4 near the foot of the solar panels along the Bayside Drive bluff. On reflection, I am even more concerned that an earlier application for wireless coverage in this exact area was, if I remember correctly, addressed by approving a Class 1 stealth facility incorporated into the roof architecture of one of the yacht clubs. I recall being supportive of that application as an excellent example of unobtrusive wireless deployment. While I do not have time to locate that earlier application in time for the written comment deadline, I have trouble understanding why this carrier cannot follow a similar path. Zoning Administrator - August 27, 2020 Item No. 3a Additional Materials Received AT&T Small Cell SLC4653 (PA2019-115)