HomeMy WebLinkAbout07 - General Plan Update Steering Committee (GPUSC) Bi-Monthly Update to the City Council and Dissolving the GPUSC and GPACQ �EwPpRT
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FROM:
CITY OF
NEWPORT BEACH
City Council Staff Report
February 10, 2026
Agenda Item No. 7
HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
Jaime Murillo, Community Development Director - 949-644-3209,
jmurillo@newportbeachca.gov
PREPARED BY: Benjamin M. Zdeba, AICP, Planning Manager - 949-644-3253,
bzdeba@newportbeachca.gov
TITLE: General Plan Update Steering Committee (GPUSC) Bi-Monthly
Update to the City Council and Resolution No. 2026-11: Dissolving
the GPUSC and GPAC
ABSTRACT:
Since the previous update to the City Council in September 2025, the General Plan
Update Steering Committee (GPUSC) and the General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC)
each held two meetings, the GPAC Noise Subcommittee held two public meetings, and
the GPUSC and GPAC held two special joint meetings. There were also two community
open house events in October 2025 and a presentation at the District 1 Town Hall in
November 2025 to continue raising awareness of the effort and encourage community
member input. The various draft Elements were also on nine separate agendas for City
of Newport Beach boards, commissions and committees to provide their input. At the
special joint meeting in December 2025, GPUSC and GPAC members provided guidance
on final edits to the draft General Plan Update. At the special joint meeting in January
2026, GPUSC and GPAC members voted to move the revised draft forward for
consideration by the various City boards, commissions and committees, and ultimately,
the City Council.
With these recent actions, the GPUSC/GPAC Draft General Plan Update is considered
complete and represents the work from a combined 57 public meetings with 47 additional
meetings of the various GPAC subcommittees. For the City Council's consideration is a
resolution to dissolve the GPUSC and GPAC.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
a) Determine this action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) and 15060(c)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines because
this action will not result in a physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly;
b) Receive and file the report; and
c) Adopt Resolution No. 2026-11, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Newport
Beach, California, Dissolving the General Plan Update Steering Committee and the
General Plan Advisory Committee.
19-1
General Plan Update Steering Committee (GPUSC) Bi-Monthly Update to the City
Council and Resolution No. 2026-11: Dissolving the GPUSC and GPAC
February 10, 2026
Page 2
DISCUSSION:
The GPUSC is chaired by Nancy Gardner with Phillip Brown and Kimberly Carter as
members. The primary purpose of the GPUSC is to guide the 24-member GPAC and to
report to the City Council. The City's dedicated website for the General Plan Update is
https://www.newportbeachca.gov/gpupdate. It provides information on the progress
made and upcoming events, as well as opportunities for community input and
engagement.
Attachment A to this report was prepared by GPUSC Chair Gardner and summarizes
some of the notable recent progress made by both committees. Below is a list and recap
of each meeting held since the September 2025 update to the City Council.
Recap of the September 16, 2025, GPAC Meeting
Between this meeting and the meeting on August 6, 2025, the Land Use
Subcommittee and Noise Subcommittee both convened. A summary of the
Subcommittee meetings and the GPAC's related actions follows.
o The Land Use Subcommittee reconvened on July 24, 2025, and met again
on August 11 and August 27. Under the guidance of Subcommittee Chair
Susan DeSantis, the Subcommittee wrapped up review of the initial draft
Land Use Element and, across its three meetings, provided productive and
direct feedback on several topic areas that need to be revised. Notably, the
Subcommittee supported sharing a revised draft with the full GPAC at this
meeting. After some discussion at the GPAC meeting, the GPAC supported
moving the initial draft Element forward for review and concurrence by the
GPUSC.
o The Noise Subcommittee met on September 15, 2025, and made progress
reviewing an initial draft of the refreshed Noise Element under the guidance
of Subcommittee Chair Jim Mosher. While there was no formal action of the
GPAC on the Noise Element at this meeting, Subcommittee Chair Mosher
provided a brief verbal update on the progress made and direction forward.
The GPAC supported the Subcommittee's efforts.
• Lastly, City staff provided an update on upcoming deliverables and next steps.
Recap of the September 24, 2025, GPUSC Meeting
The GPUSC reviewed the actions of the GPAC at its meetings on August 6, 2025,
and September 16, 2025, highlighting the initial drafts of the Safety Element and
the Land Use Element. After brief comments, the GPUSC unanimously voted to
concur with the GPAC's work efforts and to move the drafts along to the
responsible City boards, commissions and committees for additional review and
input.
• Lastly, City staff provided an update on upcoming deliverables and the next steps.
19-2
General Plan Update Steering Committee (GPUSC) Bi-Monthly Update to the City
Council and Resolution No. 2026-11: Dissolving the GPUSC and GPAC
February 10, 2026
Page 3
Recap of the November 5, 2025, GPAC Meeting
• Between this meeting and the prior meeting on September 16, 2025, the Noise
Subcommittee convened. A summary of the Subcommittee meeting and the
GPAC's related actions follows.
o The Noise Subcommittee met on October 21, 2025, to review a revised draft
of the refreshed Noise Element. The Subcommittee provided feedback and
agreed to allow City staff to make some small revisions and to share the
Element with the full GPAC for consideration. After some discussion at the
GPAC meeting, the GPAC provided direction on some updates to make to
the draft but supported moving it forward for review and concurrence by the
GPUSC.
• Lastly, City staff provided an update on upcoming deliverables and the next steps.
Recap of the December 3, 2025, GPUSC Meeting
• The GPUSC reviewed the actions of the GPAC at its meeting on November 5,
2025, focusing on the initial draft refresh of the Noise Element. After brief
comments, the GPUSC unanimously voted to concur with the GPAC's work efforts
and to move the draft along for additional review and input.
• The GPUSC also requested City staff place an item on the January agenda for the
special joint GPUSC and GPAC meeting to discuss and consider making a
recommendation to the City Council that an ad hoc committee should be formed
to assist in a more thorough review of Element implementation on a rolling basis.
Recap of the December 3, 2025, Special Joint GPUSC and GPAC Meeting
• Since the previous GPAC meeting on November 5, 2025, the formal public
comment period on the draft General Plan Elements closed. City staff shared a
table of 69 unique comments received from community members and a separate
table of 56 comments received from City boards, commissions and committees.
The GPUSC and GPAC reviewed the comments page by page and provided
guidance to City staff on which changes to incorporate.
• The GPUSC and GPAC were also introduced to the first draft of the
Implementation Programs and a new "Crosswalk Tool," which would provide
implementation actions while serving as a checklist for better tracking and
accountability. Both the GPUSC and the GPAC provided feedback on the drafts.
• City staff presented a recap of the achievements and progress made by the
GPUSC and the GPAC in 2025, highlighting that the three -member GPUSC and
the 24-member GPAC collaborated with assistance from City staff and the
consulting firm Dudek to prepare drafts of eight General Plan Elements.
19-3
General Plan Update Steering Committee (GPUSC) Bi-Monthly Update to the City
Council and Resolution No. 2026-11: Dissolving the GPUSC and GPAC
February 10, 2026
Page 4
• Lastly, while working to determine the date for the next meeting in January 2026,
GPUSC Chair Gardner informally polled the GPUSC and GPAC for the potential
to make that meeting the last meeting of the committees. Most of those members
present expressed support.
Recap of the January 21, 2026, Special Joint GPUSC and GPAC Meeting
• Since the previous special joint meeting on December 3, 2025, City staff worked
to make the edits suggested by the GPUSC and the GPAC based on input received
from the community and the various City boards, commissions and committees.
The revised drafts were presented to the GPUSC and the GPAC for consideration
in formally moving them forward as the final Draft GPUSC/GPAC General Plan
Update. By a vote of 25 ayes to 1 nay, the GPAC and GPUSC voted to support
the Draft moving forward for further consideration.
• Edits and refinements were also made to the Implementation Programs and the
new Crosswalk Tool. City staff presented an overview covering the intent of these
documents along with a highlight on the revisions made. By a vote of 24 ayes, 0
nays, and 1 abstention, the GPAC and GPUSC voted to support the format and
structure of the Drafts.
• The GPUSC and GPAC discussed the potential for a new ad hoc committee to
assist City staff in reviewing implementation of various General Plan Elements on
a rolling basis. After some discussion, the GPAC and GPUSC unanimously voted
to make such a recommendation to the City Council.
City Board, Commission, and Committee Meetings
City Arts Commission
• At the City Arts Commission meeting on September 11, 2025, Arts &
Culture/Historical Resources Chair Arlene Greer joined City staff to introduce the
draft Arts & Culture Element. The Commission opted to bring forward the formation
of an ad hoc committee at its October meeting and requested City staff return with
another presentation that would include the Historical Resources Element.
• At the Commission meeting on October 9, 2025, City staff reintroduced the Arts &
Culture Element and introduced the Historical Resources Element. The
Commission also formed an ad hoc committee to review the draft Elements.
• At the Commission meeting on November 13, 2025, the ad hoc committee
presented its input for the full Commission's consideration. After some discussion,
the Commission unanimously supported moving the input forward to the GPAC
and GPUSC for consideration.
19-4
General Plan Update Steering Committee (GPUSC) Bi-Monthly Update to the City
Council and Resolution No. 2026-11: Dissolving the GPUSC and GPAC
February 10, 2026
Page 5
Board of Library Trustees
• The drafts of the Arts & Culture Element and the Historical Resources Element
were previously introduced to the Board of Library Trustees at its meeting on
August 18, 2025. At that meeting, the Board indicated that formal input would be
provided by its October 2025 meeting and supported the drafts moving forward for
public review concurrent with the Board's review.
• At its meeting on October 20, 2025, the Board briefly discussed the draft Elements
and unanimously supported them without any comments.
Harbor Commission
• The draft Harbor, Bay and Beaches Element was previously introduced to the
Harbor Commission at its meeting on August 13, 2025. At that meeting, the
Commission noted that an ad hoc committee had already been formed in 2024 to
help monitor and provide input on the General Plan Update. Although preliminary
feedback was provided at this meeting, it was noted that the formal feedback would
be forthcoming. The Harbor Commission supported the draft element moving
forward for public review concurrent with the Commission's review.
• At its meeting on November 12, 2025, the ad hoc committee presented its input
for full Commission discussion. With some additional comments incorporated, the
Commission unanimously supported moving the input forward to the GPAC and
GPUSC for consideration.
Parks, Beaches, and Recreation Commission
• The drafts of the Harbor, Bay, and Beaches Element, Natural Resources Element,
and Recreation Element were previously introduced to the Commission at its
meeting on August 5, 2025. At that meeting, the Commission indicated its intention
to form an ad hoc committee for review and to provide comments by its October
2025 meeting but supported the drafts moving forward for public review concurrent
with the Commission's review.
• At its meeting on September 2, 2025, the Commission formed an ad hoc
committee to review the draft Elements.
• At the Commission meeting on October 7, 2025, the ad hoc committee presented
its input for the full Commission's consideration. After some discussion, the
Commission unanimously supported moving the input forward to the GPAC and
GPUSC for consideration.
19-5
General Plan Update Steering Committee (GPUSC) Bi-Monthly Update to the City
Council and Resolution No. 2026-11: Dissolving the GPUSC and GPAC
February 10, 2026
Page 6
Planning Commission
• At the Planning Commission meeting on October 9, 2025, City staff introduced the
drafts of the Land Use Element and the Safety Element. After a brief discussion,
the Commission indicated that formal input would be provided at one of its
meetings in November 2025 but supported the drafts moving forward for public
review concurrent with the Commission's review.
• At its meeting on November 20, 2025, the Commission discussed the draft
Elements and provided pointed feedback on a few goals and policies in the Land
Use Element, directing City staff to share that feedback with the GPAC and
GPUSC for consideration.
Outreach Updates
• In consultation with the GPAC, the GPAC Outreach Subcommittee, and the
GPUSC, City staff facilitated one community open house and one virtual open
house to showcase the draft General Plan Update. These events and their
effectiveness are covered in Attachment B to this staff report.
• In 2025, the General Plan Update was advertised on the City's website and social
media, as well as in Stu News, the Daily Pilot, and the City Manager's newsletter.
Across those formats, 35,000 residents were reached and there were 3,700 unique
visitors to the City's project website(https://www.newportbeachca.gov/gpupdate).
Dissolving the GPUSC and the GPAC
Since their formation in 2022, the GPUSC and the GPAC have collectively met 57 times
at public meetings conducted in accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act. In addition to
those, the various subcommittees of the GPAC have combined to meet 47 times at public
meetings. The invaluable work and guidance provided by community members serving
on the committees has been concluded with their support of the GPUSC/GPAC Draft
General Plan Update, which includes eight updated General Plan Elements.
Pursuant to City Council Resolution Nos. 2025-2 and 2025-3, which amended the
GPUSC and the GPAC, the membership of both the GPUSC and the GPAC will expire at
the first City Council meeting in February. As identified in the resolutions, the committees
also terminate either when the General Plan Update is adopted or sooner with City
Council action. Since there is no need for additional Committee meetings, it is most
appropriate for the City Council to dissolve the GPUSC and GPAC by adopting Resolution
No. 2026-4 (Attachment C). With their dissolution, City staff will continue bringing the
various draft Elements forward for review by the City boards, commissions and
committees. It is anticipated that the City Council will review and consider adopting the
General Plan Update in April or May 2026.
19-6
General Plan Update Steering Committee (GPUSC) Bi-Monthly Update to the City
Council and Resolution No. 2026-11: Dissolving the GPUSC and GPAC
February 10, 2026
Page 7
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact related to this item.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW:
Staff recommends the City Council find this action is not subject to the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) (the activity will not
result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment)
and 15060(c)(3) (the activity is not a project as defined in Section 15378) of the CEQA
Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3, because it has no
potential for resulting in physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly.
NOTICING:
The agenda item has been noticed according to the Brown Act (72 hours in advance of
the meeting at which the City Council considers the item).
ATTACHMENT:
Attachment A — GPUSC Chair Gardner's Memo to the City Council
Attachment B — Phase Three Outreach Summary
Attachment C — Resolution No. 2026-11 Dissolving the GPUSC and GPAC
19-7
Attachment A
GPUSC Chair Gardner's Memo to the City Council
At the January meeting, GPAC approved a final draft of the General Plan. This will
now go back to the relevant city commissions and committees for a final review before
presentation to Council. Any comments from these groups will be provided in an
addendum. While the committee did not review a full implementation plan it did approve
the Crosswalk implementation format, noting that it is a more complete methodology than
with the current General Plan, citing the specific department (s) responsible for
implementation and a time line.
GPAC is suggesting a new committee. In reviewing the current General Plan it was
found that there were a number of policies that had never been addressed. The proposal
is for a small committee that would meet once a year and review one or two elements (not
the Housing Element which staff reviews annually) and present a report to Council on any
policies, the implementation of which were lacking. That way every element would be
reviewed at least once every five years so there wouldn't be lapses such as the Bicycle
Safety Master Plan that wasn't reviewed in the manner called for.
A point that has come up regularly is the suggestion that references to the housing
allocation for Banning Ranch be removed since the new owners have stated in writing that
there will be no housing on the property.
As GPAC is a Council -appointed group, it is up to Council to decide its future, but it
was the general feeling of GPAC members (with an exception which I will discuss) that with
the draft being approved their work was completed and the committee could be closed.
Since GPAC members serve one-year terms, given the timing, this would eliminate the
need to appoint or reappoint members. The one exception felt that there should be
continuing oversight by GPAC. It is my opinion that staff can handle the next steps
adequately. If Council feels there is a benefit from additional oversight I would suggest the
Steering Committee can take that role.
I want to commend the GPAC members. Between GPAC and subcommittee
meetings, town halls and open houses they have put in a lot of hours. There have been
many lively discussions with a wide variety of perspectives, reflecting the diverse make up
of GPAC which in turn reflects the diversity of the city. When the draft comes to you you will
appreciate the work that has gone into it.
I also want to commend staff with special thanks to Ben Zdeba who has shepherded
the process, scheduling and attending meetings, coordinating with consultants, and
always making himself available to GPAC members and the general public, all of this under
the strong guidance of Jaime Murillo.
Attachment B
Phase Three Outreach Summary
MIM� r W
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nLJ "CE THREE OUTREACH SUMMARY
f Newport Beach General Plan Update
J by Kearns & West, in consultation with Dudek
a,
JANUARY 2026
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Accommodating Planned Housic-
Opportunities, continued:
Goal 19: Balboa Island: A walkable, comp.
esidential. visitor -serving, and comm.-,.
Goal 20: Newport Center/Fashion island
downtown that supports residents, bush
Goal 21. West Newport Mesa: A live/wc
to key re sources
Goal 22: Coyote Canyon: A community
the natural environment
Goal 23 Dover/Westclrff Amzed-u
city w de resources
Guiding Future Change
Goal 24 Infrastructure that supo
and improves existing d-.I.Pme
technologies
GOa1 25: A prompt and efficient s
processing
Goal 26: Efficient use of land to c
support economic development
Goal 27A cltY with healthy tom
Interagency eoordinatio
Goal 28: A City with mutually ben
and development
fluence:: A
Goal .pe11 If futurengene generations
preserve or
Land Use, Safer
Harbor, Bay s
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Land Use Goals
-dating Planned Housing and
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Defir
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Conldors that are compatible with surrounding uses.
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.adequate parking
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Table of Contents
Executive Summary 01
Getting the Word Out 04
Draft General Plan
Review and Comment 06
Next Steps 12
Appendices 14
� SEW Pp�T
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Section 1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The City of Newport Beach (City) continues its comprehensive General
Plan Update process. This Plan is the second comprehensive revision for
the City of Newport Beach and builds on many themes and strategies
from the previous 2006 plan, while being responsive to new community
needs, opportunities, and changes. The 2050 General Plan will serve as
a framework for decision -making in Newport Beach over the next 25
years. The General Plan will be used by City Council, City staff, and the
community as a keystone to guide decisions and align with city priorities.
The success of the General Plan Update relies on the involvement of
community members, residents, property owners, and other interested
parties in shaping and forming the vision, goals, and policies of the
General Plan. The City is committed to conducting a transparent, inclusive,
and meaningful planning process that values community input at every key
phase of the update. Community input from phases one and two was vital
in informing and drafting the current draft plan. Summaries highlighting
the input opportunities and key themes can be found online:
Phase One Summary and Phase Two Summarv.
This document summarizes outreach conducted for the Newport Beach
General Plan Update between May 2025 and November 2025. Phase three
outreach focused on sharing the comprehensive draft of the updated
General Plan and its elements for community review and input (see Figure
1). Specific sections of this summary include:
• This overview, including an overview of the General Plan Update
process, outreach types, engagement reach, and General Plan Advisory
Committee (GPAC) collaboration
• Getting the word out, which describes advertisements, social media,
and other notification types
• Draft General Plan Element Review, including digital engagement
through the Newport, Together website, community open houses, and
collaboration with the GPAC, General Plan Update Steering Committee
(GPUSC), and boards and commissions
• Next steps, including additional ways the community can continue to
provide input
Executive Summary 1
We're Here
O •
POLICY DEVELOPMENT +
GENERALPLAN
AMENDMENT
SPH-zozs
Community
• Development of General
Engagement and
Plan
Outreach Plan
• Online Survey
Research and Data
Analysis
• GPAC + GPUSC Meetings
Online Survey
• Community Workshops
• Paid Advertisements
GPAC + GPUSC
Meetings
Pop-up Events
Paid Advertisements
QFIASF
3
CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY ACT (CEQA)
sa i r zozs
Environmental Analysis
• Adoptic
Virtual Open House
In -Person Open House
WEBPAGE, DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT, SOCIAL MEDIA, NEWSLETTERS
Figure 1: Phases of Community Engagement and Outreach.
About the General Plan Update
A General Plan is a document that guides long-term development and
serves as the foundation for decision -making regarding a community's
physical development. State law requires that every city have a current
General Plan, which local governments use to make decisions about land
use, housing, transportation, infrastructure, and parks, among other issues.
The City of Newport Beach's updated General Plan focuses on 2050 -
planning for the next 25 years.
Outreach Type and Engagement Reach
Phase three outreach was designed to facilitate the community's review
of draft materials based on input from previous phases and to gather
comments, suggestions, and feedback on the current draft. Community
members could participate in the planning process in ways that suited
their level of interest and availability. During this phase of outreach,
broader public participation lessens as technical experts and topic -specific
interested community members engage in detailed discussions and targeted
feedback opportunities. Outreach types for phase three included digital
engagement through the Newport, Together website and open houses, in -
person and virtual, in the Newport Beach community.
Through digital engagement and public
comment open houses, 19 community
members participated. In addition, 34,900
residents were reached with advertisements,
social media, and emails.
Executive Summary 2
General Plan Advisory Committee and General Plan Update
Steering Committee Collaboration
Feedback from the GPAC and GPAC subcommittees received during
phases one and two informed the current draft of the Comprehensive
General Plan. In preparation for phase three outreach, the GPAC members
reviewed multiple iterations of the draft elements and provided their
comments before being presented to the community. GPAC members
were also invited to participate in the open houses, and their submitted
comments were available for reference during the open house. The GPUSC
provided additional oversight and guidance to the GPAC and participated in
community events.
GPAC members, GPUSC members, and Newport Beach residents reviewing elements at the
open house.
Executive Summary 3
Section 2
GETTING THE WORD OUT
Multiple notification methods were used to inform the Newport Beach
community about the draft elements and the opportunity for public
comment during phase three of the General Plan Update process. The City's
marketing team collaborated on efforts to announce the available elements,
share updates, and invite community members to provide input via the City
Manager's newsletter and social media posts on Instagram and Facebook
(see Figure 2). In addition, strategic email announcements were coordinated
with community partners and distributed through the Newport, Together
dedicated website, newportbeachca.gov/gpupdate.
GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS
AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW
x
NEWPORT BEACH DRAFT 2050 Tuesday, October 21, 2025
GENERAL PLAN Time: 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM
Where: Civic Center Community Room
ter Dr
ELEMENT too Civic Ce
Newport Beach, CA 92660
REVIEW Wednesday, October 22, 2025
OPEN HOUSES r; VrtuaItonZoo
Visit: newportbeachca.gov/gpupdate
ow
SEE YOU
TOMORROW!
Join your neighbors for the Newport Beach
2050 Draft General Plan Open Houses to review
the draft element goals and provide your
feedback to help finalize the plan!
Tuesday October 21, 2025
Wednedsay October 22, 2025
6:30PM - 8:00PM
6:OOPM - 7:30PM
Civic Center Community Room
Virtual Meeting on Zoom
100 Civic Center Dr
Meeting Link on the Website
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Attend one of the open houses and provide your feedback!
Visit: newportbeachca.gov/gpupdate
- i Y
Figure 2: Three Social Media Posts Announcing Phase Three and Invitation to Community
Workshops.
Getting the Word Out 4
As shown in Table 1, as of November 17, 2025, social media, the City
Manager's newsletter, and dedicated emails had reached at least 34,900
residents, community members, and stakeholders.
Table 1: Outreach Notifications by Type and Reach
Type
Run Time/
Number of
Posts
Dates (all 2025)
Reached
Social Media
September 5, October 10,
Instagram and
�
October 14, October 20,
20,000
Facebook
November 5, November 11,
November 17th
Newport,
Together Email
4
September 5, October 10,
3,500
October 20, November 3
City Manager
3
September 5, October 10,
10,000+
Newsletter
October 31
Newport Beach
Chamber of
2
October 20, November 11
1,400
Commerce Emails
Ovision statement
Getting the Word Out 5
Section 3
Draft General Plan Review
and Comment
Over the last few years, hundreds of thoughtful responses from Newport
Beach residents and community members, collaboration with the 24-member
GPAC, and background analysis from phases one and two have been integral
in the development of the 2050 General Plan. Though the General Plan has
10 elements, the update process focused on eight elements, as the Housing
and Circulation Elements were updated and adopted in a separate effort
from 2019 to 2021. The Noise Element was last updated in 2023 and was
not originally intended to be part of the broader GPU process. In 2024, the
City assessed the Noise Element and determined that minor revisions and
updated maps were needed. In 2025, the Noise Element was added to the
GPU process. Due to its recent update, the element has been revised for
clarity and updated maps. The public review timeline for the Noise Element
differed from that of the other seven elements.
The following eight elements were part of the community review effort this
fall:
i
Recreation
Natural
Resources
O7�
Land Use
Safety
Arts and Culture Historical Harbor, Bay, Noise
Resources and Beaches
The primary objectives for phase three community outreach were to
share the current public drafts of the eight available elements and invite
community members, residents, and other stakeholders to provide comments
on the elements' goals and policies. Input was gathered over three formats:
digital engagement, open houses, and collaboration with the GPAC, GPUSC,
and boards and commissions. The following sections detail the format of
each input activity and provide an overview of the comments received. See
Appendix A and B for reference materials.
Draft General Plan Review and Comment 6
Digital Engagement - Newport, Together Website
The dedicated General Plan Update website, Newport, Together, continues
to inform the community about the General Plan Update process and
announce upcoming activities. The Newport, Together website is updated
frequently in collaboration with City staff and the GPAC. As of December
2025, the website had 13,600 visitors.
During phase three, the website served as a primary platform for sharing
draft elements and inviting the community to provide comments. A
dedicated subpage was developed to host the public review and comment
period, beginning on September 5 and concluding on November 17. The
page included an overview of the process, how the drafts were informed,
directions for providing comments, and links to the draft elements.
Participants were invited to review the elements, either by looking at a
snapshot of the goals under "Draft Element Goals for Public Review" or
the comprehensive goal, available as individual PDFs. Following participant
review, a questionnaire was available to collect open-ended comments,
ideas, or concerns, organized by the element. Participants could submit
as many comments as they liked. Appendix C lists the comments received
online from 11 contributors.
H.— f � Geeeml R- 0-A U-11
Draft Elements Review and
Public Comment
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Figure 3: Screenshot of the 2050 General Plan Draft Elements and Public Review Webpage
Draft General Plan Review and Comment 7
Open Houses
In parallel with the online review and comment period, the City hosted
two open houses as additional platforms for the community to provide
input. Each open house was designed to share the element goals and what
was new in each element, reflect what was heard from the community
during phases one and two, and offer an opportunity for participants to
share what resonates and what may be missing. Participants included
members of the public, including those who also serve in more formal roles
as members of the GPAC and GPUSC. The open house schedule, format,
and attendance are provided in Table 2. The following section provides an
overview of each element station (see Appendix A and B for the reference
materials) and the community comments received (Appendix D).
Table 2: Open House schedule and attendance.
Open House Format
Date and Time (all 2025)
Attendance
In -Person
Civic Center Community
Room
Tuesday, October 21
9
100 Civic Center Dr.,
6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Newport Beach, CA
92660
Virtual
Wednesday, October 22
Zoom Meeting
6:00 to 7:30 p.m.
7
Recording
In -Person
The in -person meeting was open -house style, with no formal presentation.
Participants began at a welcome desk, where they signed in, received
directions for navigating the room, and were given a feedback sheet to
share their input. There were six stations, organized by complementary
elements:
• General Plan Overview: Community Outreach Process and Vision
Statement
• Recreation and Natural Resources Elements
• Arts & Culture and Historical Resources Elements
• Safety Elements
• Land Use and Harbor, Bay, and Beaches Elements
• Noise Element (See Below for Details)
Draft General Plan Review and Comment 8
7 1
Community members discussing elements at the in -person open house.
Each station contained boards with the element goals, highlighting what
had changed or been revised for each element, and demonstrating how
community input was incorporated. However, the draft Noise Element did
not include boards; instead, it was printed and made available on the day
of the in -person open house at a designated table. Each participant was
invited to share what is meaningful to them and what was missing on their
feedback sheet. Staff were available to respond to questions.
Virtual
The virtual meeting was hosted in a modified open -house format, featuring
a presentation, Q&A, and opportunities for input. The presentation began
with opening remarks, an agenda, objectives, and a guide for productive
discussions. Following the opening slides, City staff acknowledged and
thanked Newport residents, past and present GPAC members, and GPUSC
members for their insights. The rest of the presentation mirrored the
content shared at the in -person open house - an overview of the General
Plan process, the plan's relevance to every resident, how to provide input
online, and a section on each updated element. The presentation was
recorded and added to the Newport, Together website. It has received over
63 views.
Generally, updated elements were grouped with complementary elements.
Each section showed the element's focus, highlighted what had been
revised for each element, and demonstrated how community input was
incorporated.
Draft General Plan Review and Comment 9
After each section of elements, as listed below, the presentation paused
for input and discussion. Participants were invited to share their general
comments, if anything resonated with them, and if anything was missing.
Comments could be shared verbally, via the Q&A chat on Zoom, or online
at the Newport, Together website.
• Recreation and Natural Resources Elements
• Arts and Culture and Historical Resources Elements
• Land Use, Safety, and Harbor, Bay, and Beaches Elements
• Noise Element
Participants' input from the feedback sheets and the virtual Q&A feature is
listed in Appendix D, representing five contributors.
Collaboration with the General Plan Advisory Committee,
General Plan Update Steering Committee, and City Boards
and Commissions
Before the draft 2050 General Plan Elements were available for public
review this fall, the GPAC subcommittees met frequently to review each
draft element as it was revised and refined by the consultant team. The
subcommittee's comments and suggestions informed the version of the
elements published beginning September S. The drafts were released online
on a rolling basis, following the subcommittee's endorsement. Prior to the
release of the elements, the subcommittee chairs provided endorsements
of each draft element at GPAC meetings. The GPUSC observed the GPAC
meetings, provided guidance, and supported the public review of the
elements. All element PDFs were added to the Newport, Together Resource
and Document Library on the website. Subcommittee meetings were held
in a hybrid format, both virtually on Microsoft Teams and in person at 100
Civic Center Drive in Newport Beach (see Table 3 below for meeting dates).
Table 3: Schedule of Meetings with GPAC, GPUSC, and GPAC Subcommittees
Committee and Subcommittees
Meeting Dates (all 2025)
General Plan Advisory Committee
April 2, June 4, July 2, August 6,
(GPAC)
September 16
General Plan Update Steering
April 2, June 23, July 23,
Committee (GPUSC)
September 24
Arts and Culture and Historical
I April 24
Resources Subcommittee
Harbor, Bay, and Beaches
April 30
Subcommittee
Recreation and Natural Resources
May 15
Subcommittee
Safety Subcommittee
June 25
Land Use Subcommittee
July 24, August 11, August 2=
Noise Subcommittee
July 28, September 15, October 21
Outreach Subcommittee
gust 14
Draft General Plan Review and Comment 10
Coinciding with digital engagement and open houses, City staff presented
at multiple City Boards and Commissions. Each presentation included
an overview of the General Plan Update process, including what's in a
General Plan, the analysis process, and community outreach. Based on the
commission's topic, City staff provided a focused update on the element
or elements within the commission's or board's purview. At the discretion
of the board or commission, the members conducted individual reviews or
ad hoc reviews and consolidated comments, which were provided to City
staff for consideration. Table 4 reflects the meeting dates for the board and
commission presentations. Following the meeting schedule, the final motion
of each board and commission are listed.
Table 4: Schedule of Meetings with City Boards and Commissions.
Committee and Subcommittees
Meeting Dates (all 2025)
Mayor's District 1 Town Hall
November 19
City Arts Commission
September 11, October 9,
November 13
Board of Library Trustees
August 18, October 20
Harbor Commission
August 13, November 12
Parks, Beaches & Recreation
August 5, September 2, October 7
Commission
Planning Commission
October 9, November 20
Water Quality/Coastal Tidelands
September 4, October 2
Committee
Boards and Commissions Motions of Support
• City Arts Commission - Voted to move the ad hoc committee's
comments forward to the GPAC/GPUSC for consideration
• Board of Library Trustees - Provided support for the drafts with no
further feedback
• Harbor Commission - Voted to move the ad hoc committee's comments
forward to the GPAC/GPUSC for consideration
• Parks, Beaches, and Recreation Commission - Voted to move the ad hoc
committee's comments forward to the GPAC/GPUSC for consideration
• Planning Commission - Provided support for the drafts with minimal
comments
• Water Quality/Coastal Tidelands Committee - Voted to move the ad hoc
committee's comments forward to the GPAC/GPUSC for consideration
Comments provided by City boards, commissions, and committees are
reflected in the Appendix E - tables 7 to 13. Each table is dedicated to one
element, and not organized by board or commission. Red and underlined
text indicates line -by-line edits suggested by the board or commission.
Draft General Plan Review and Comment 11
Section 4
Next Steps
NEWPORT
GPU
In collaboration with the General Plan
Advisory Committee, City staff and the
consultant team will review all submitted
comments from digital engagement,
open houses, and meetings with boards
and commissions. Informed by the phase
three comments, the 2050 Draft General
Plan will be revised and refined. The final
draft of the General Plan will be prepared
and presented for public hearings and the
City Council in Spring 2026, tentatively
in April or May. Newport Beach residents
and community members are invited
to attend and participate in the public
hearing process before the General Plan
is adopted by City Council.
Community member reviewing the draft Noise element at the community open house.
12 Next Steps
'Irl6"t.?
Appendices
A I In -Person Open House Boards 15
B I Virtual Open House Presentations 20
C I Online Questionnaire Comments 34
D I Open House Comments 43
E I Board and Committees Comments 45
O� 7EW Pp�T • •
C��/FORN�P
\ 9
IN -PERSON OPEN HOUSE
BOARDS
***% PDFs of open house boards can be found HERE.
What is a General Plan?
A General Plan contains goals that set values and
direction, policies that guide decision -making, and
NEWPORT programs to carry out the actions needed to achieve
G PU the goals. A General Plan serves to set the course for
the City's implementation of codes and regulations.
The City of Newport Beach is working alongside
community to update the General Plan to respond to
social, economic, and environmental changes, and to
comply with new State laws.
How will the General Plan be used?
The City Council uses the General Plan to guide their decisions, City staff uses
the General Plan as a reference to guide City priorities, and the community
uses the General Plan to provide input to decision makers and understand
Citywide values and direction.
Updated Elements
Recreation Natural Land Use Safety
Resources
A�
Arts and Historical Harbor, Bay Noise'
Culture Resources and Beaches
Newport,
Provide Additional Feedback! Together.
0 Vision statement
In 2050, Newport Beach is renowned as a coastal beacon of natural
splendor, unparalleled amenities, and dynamic culture. The City maintains
a superior quality of life by successfully balancing the needs of residents,
businesses, and visitors. Newport Beach is a distinguished city adorned
with unique villages, coastal resources, and natural open spaces, creating
a unique sense of place in an idyllic setting. A destination for many,
Newport Beach offers a sophisticated lifestyle with access to luxury
amenities and activities.
The City's commitment to the protection of the natural environment
has made Newport Beach a leader of environmental stewardship in the
region. Strong partnerships with outside agencies and organizations
have cultivated successful collaboration on regional transportation, land
use, coastline, and other issues of mutual concern. The sweeping views
of and access to beaches, the harbor, and the coast have been preserved
and are maintained for future generations.
Growth and development have been accommodated in a manner that
seamlessly blends new and old into the fabric of the community, keeping
pace with changing community needs while maintaining adequate
infrastructure and a high quality of life. The needs of the community are
met through a variety of strategically located uses, including vibrant
commercial services; offices and employment centers; public facilities,
including community centers and libraries; parksand open space; schools;
residential neighborhoods; and a diversity of land uses.
Strategic planning and infrastructure investments continue to protect the
health and longevity of the built and natural environments. Adaptation
and resilience are central to all decision -making and have empowered
the City to maintain a vibrant coastal lifestyle that strengthens the local
economy. The City's world -class public safety services safeguard its
residents and visitors,creating safeand friendly neighborhoods. Residents
champion arts, culture, and education as pillars of the community, and
take pride in their historical legacy. Residents embrace innovation, and
their visionary outlook has positioned them as frontrunners in best
practices for adopting new technologies. Newport Beach is distinguished
for its beauty, culture, resilience, and inclusivity for residents of all stages
of life and backgrounds.
p o 4�EW�
Newport,Provide Additional Feedback!
O4.
Appendix A 15
From Vision To Action
The draft elements of the 2050 General Plan are the
result of three years of analysis and collaboration
I/'1- with the community, including hundreds of
-n-
1 J � J thoughtful responses from Newport Beach residents
and community members, collaboration with the
/ / ` 24-member General Plan Advisory Committee
\`` (GPAC), and background analysis from Phases One
and Two. Input from the community has been sought
through pop-up events, community workshops,
citywide notifications, digital engagement, and
collaboration with the GPAC.
Community Engagement and Activities
rh,i i ! ;a
logo
Community Workshops
Pop-up Events Digital Engagement
OpHASc QHASO QHAS2 3 4
Background Policy Development California
Analysis & & General Plan Environment OF Hearings
Amendment Quality Act
Visioning (cEQA)
March to June 2024 October 2024 to August 2025 to Winter 2025 to
Spring 2026 Spring 2026 Spring 2026
000
What We Heard
What's New
Recreation and
Natural Resources
• Improve the local parks and create
more dog parks
• Invest in more community amenities,
recreation and sports facilities, and
community -oriented spaces
• Ensure clean water for future
generations
• Integrate conservation efforts with
development plans
• Protect open spaces around the city
Proposed Updates
Recreation
• More access to parks, open space, and recreation
across Newport Beach
i so • Access to public beaches
• Park and recreational upgrades to meet the
varying needs of residents
Natural Resources
• Enhanced focus on clean energy alternatives
• Planning for sea -level rise
• Wildlife and habitat connectivity
• Preparing for the transition away from oil and
gas where appropriate
• Prioritizing a clean and healthy natural
environment
WIN,
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Recreation Goals
Recreation Programs
Goal 1: A community with high -quality recreation programs
Goal 2: Programs for older adults that benefit and are used by
residents
Parks and Playgrounds
Goal 3: New parks and connections that increase resident access to
recreation, parks, and open space opportunities
Goal 4: Parks and recreation facilities that are preserved, upgraded,
and well -maintained
Goal 5: Parks and recreational facilities that are adapted to meet a
variety of needs for existing and future residents
Goal 6: Established and well -maintained relationships to facilitate
interagency and interorganizational coordination
Beach Recreation
Goal 7: Protection of public beach access
Support Facilities
Goal 8: Adequate support facilities at parks and recreation areas
❑yam..❑
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A.rovide Additional Feedback! "�
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Natural Resources
:�, � Goals
Air Quality
Goal 1: Reduced transportation -related emissions to improve air
quality
Goal 2: Electric vehicle charging or other clean technology
infrastructure to serve the growing share of clean -energy vehicles
residents
Goal 3: Reduced air pollution emissions from ground operations
at John Wayne Airport
Mineral and Oil Resources
Goal 4: Preparation for the orderly transition of oil and gas
resources, as deemed appropriate
Energy Transition
Goal 5: Increased electrification or use of renewable energy at
public facilities to reduce gasoline and natural gas usage and
emissions
Goal 6: Electrification or renewable energy incentives for existing
buildings to reduce natural gas emissions
Biological Resources
Goal 7: Native and naturalized non-invasive species habitats in
parks and public open space
Goal 8: Cooperation with State and Federal resource protection
agencies and private organizations to protect terrestrial and
marine resources
Goal 9: Community -driven initiatives for ecosystem conservation
Goal 10: Land use and development standards to conserve
important ecosystem services and habitats
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Appendix A 16
Natural Resources What's New
o 0 o Arts and Culture, and
Goals Historical Resources
Rivers and Waterbodies
Goal 11: Coordination with relevant agencies to reduce pollutants
of concern in Newport Bay
Goal 12: Enhanced green infrastructure to help prevent runoff
into Newport Bay
Goal 13: Standards and programs to limit runoff of pollution to
preserve water quality of groundwater sources
Goal 14: Minimized adverse effects to water quality from sanitary
sewer outflows
Sandy Beaches
Goal 15: Beach nourishment, sand retention, and sediment
restoration projects
Water Conservation
Goal 16: Reduced potable water use for landscaping on public
lands
Goal 17: Water -efficient landscaping incentives for private
property
Vital Resources
Goal 18: Viewsheds and corridors that are preserved
Goal 19: Minimized visual impacts of signs and utilities
What We Heard
• Protect venues, such as Newport
Theatre and the public libraries
• Promote partnerships and
collaborations to support the
City's cultural, educational, and
recreational goals
• Enhance public spaces with art
installations, murals, and sculptures
• Maintain and enhance the character
and charm of Newport Beach
Proposed Updates
Arts and Culture
• Supports facilities for the arts and art in public and
private spaces
ii; it • Enhanced support for City libraries and services
��IUT—J • Support for musical programming
• Supports community engagement in the arts
citywide
• Emphasize collaboration with other organizations
Historical Resources
Archaeological and Paleontological Resources
• Celebration of historical resources
Goal 20: Protection of archaeological and paleontological
Enhanced outreach, education, and interpretation
resources
FM•
of Newport Beach history through signage,
partnerships, walking tours, and school programs
• Consideration of a legacy business program
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Arts and Culture
Goals
Engaging with Art and Culture
Goal 1: A community enriched by and connected to the arts,
culture, and education
Goal 2: Programs and exhibits within the city are widely
promoted, marketed, and attended
Goal 3: A city with strong partnerships that support thriving arts,
culture, and education
Financing Art and Culture
Goal 4: Funding that helps local artists and art programs flourish
Arts and Culture Facilities and Assets
Goal 5: State-of-the-art facilities to host art exhibits and
programs
Goal 6: A wide collection of art exhibited throughout the city
Historical Resources
Goals
Identification of Historical Resources
Goal 1: A city that recognizes and protects historically significant
landmarks, sites, and structures
Goal 2: Well -documented and protected archaeological and
paleontological resources
Preservation of Historical Resources
Goal 3: A city that celebrates, preserves, and protects its history
Celebrating Historical Resources
Goal 4: A city that enshrines its history through education
Goal 5: A city and community that celebrate Tribal Cultural
Resources
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x.; Together. x;:o Together.
Appendix A 17
What's New
000
What We Heard
Land Use, and Harbor,
Bay and Beaches
• Invest in beach and harbor
infrastructure
• Improve docking access
• Increase public access to docks
• Promote tourism around the bay
• Expand summer trolley
• Prioritize essential amenities like
schools, and community centers
• Integrate environmental
considerations into urban planning,
ensuring sustainable development
• Keep the beaches clean and
accessible to the community
Proposed Updates
Land Use
• Consolidate element to streamline usability
• Emphasizes balanced communities to increase
access to essential amenities
• Improve tracking and transparency of development
activity
• Align updates to city plans and processes with
community vision
Harbor, Bay and Beaches
• Protecting beaches, including beach access
a� • Strategies to minimize displacement risks from coastal
hazards
• A stronger emphasis on the harbor's economic vitality
• Fosters access to mooring opportunities
O Land Use Goals
Development Capacity Limits
Goal 1: A City that manages growth and change through land use
decisions that are consistent with the General Plan
Defining Neighborhood and Land Use Character
Goal 2: Well-balanced land uses with adequate community
services and supporting infrastructure that support livability,
residential opportunities, promote new complementary uses,
sustain and enhance economic vitality, and sustain the natural
environment
Goal 3: A city that values an aesthetically pleasing built
environment
Goal 4: Distinct neighborhoods and villages that accommodate
planned development while maintaining their unique character
Goal 5: Residential neighborhoods that are well -designed and
contribute the livability and quality of life of residents
Goal 6: Commercial districts and centers are well -planned and
exhibit a high level of architectural and landscape quality
Goal 7: Mixed -use districts are designed and planned to ensure
compatibility among a variety of uses
Goal 8: Office and business parks exhibit a high -quality image,
are attractive, and provide quality working environments for
employees and services for the community
Goal 9: Industrial districts that provide flexibility to incorporate
community -serving uses and encourage transition to co -locate
employment, residential, and creative and artistic uses
Goal 10: Public and institutional uses that enhance the quality of
life for residents and are located and designed to complement
Newport Beach's neighborhoods
ih.
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rovide Additional Feedback! O ether; Provide Additional Feedback! ` Together.
ELand Use Goals
Accommodating Planned Housing and
Opportunities
Goal 11: Housing Opportunity Sites: A City with sufficient housing
opportunities
Goal 12: Corridors that are compatible with surrounding uses,
are well -designed and attractive, minimize traffic impacts, and
provide adequate parking
Goal 13: Corona del Mar: A pedestrian -oriented village serving as
the center of community commerce, culture, and social activity
Goal 14: Mariners' Mile: A corridor that reflects the Newport
Bay waterfront, supports and respects adjacent residential
neighborhoods, and exhibits a high quality visual image
Goal 15: Old Newport Boulevard: A corridor of uses and services
that support Hoag Hospital and nearby residential neighborhoods
Goal 16: West Coast Highway: A gateway corridor with
connections to the Orange Coast River Park, as well as
commercial clusters that serve local residents and coastal visitors
at key intersections, interspersed with compatible residential
development
Goal 17: Airport Area: A connected and complete community that
supports residents and businesses
Goal 18: Balboa Peninsula: A series of pedestrian -oriented
districts with a mix of visitor -serving, marine -related, retail, live/
work, and residential uses
in
Land Use Goals
Accommodating Planned Housing and
Opportunities, continued:
Goal 19: Balboa Island: A walkable, compact coastal district with
residential, visitor -serving, and community -oriented uses
Goal 20: Newport Center/Fashion Island: A high -quality
downtown that supports residents, businesses, and visitors
Goal 21: West Newport Mesa: A live/work community connected
to key resources
Goal 22: Coyote Canyon: A community that balances homes with
the natural environment
Goal 23: Dover/Westcliff: A mixed -use community connected to
citywide resources
Guiding Future Change
Goal 24: Infrastructure that supports new development, maintains
and improves existing development, and is adaptable to new
technologies
Goal 25: A prompt and efficient system for development permit
processing
Goal 26: Efficient use of land to create livable neighborhoods and
support economic development
Goal 27: A city with healthy communities for all
Interagency Coordination
Goal 28: A City with mutually beneficial land use conservation
and development
Goal 29: Sphere of Influence: A regional natural resource that is
preserved for future generations
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x,.. •.
Appendix A 18
Q Harbor, Bay and
o Beaches Goals
Land and Water Uses
Goal 1: Local businesses and water -dependent commercial
uses in the Newport Harbor area that are preserved to maintain
and enhance the economic activity charm of the waterfront
community
Goal 2: Minimized risk of displacement by coastal hazards
Goal 3: A harbor, bay, and beaches that attract tourism and
maintain the character of coastal neighborhoods
Goal 4: Sufficient coastal infrastructure that protects coastal -
dependent and public recreational uses and view corridors while
matching the character of the surrounding development and
protecting coastal and visual resources
Harbor Coordination and Administration
Goal 5: Coordination among City, County of Orange, State, and
Federal agencies having regulatory authority of Newport Harbor
and Newport Bay
Goal 6: Maintenance and enhancement of deep -water channels to
ensure they remain navigable by boats
Goal 7: Protection and restoration of beaches and dunes
Economic Value of Newport Harbor
Goal 8: Well -managed and economically productive harbor, bay,
and beaches
Goal 9: Cost-efficient servicing and managing of Newport Harbor
Public Access to Coastal Resources
Goal 10: Safe and accessible beach and harbor access points
Goal 11: Multifaceted and integrated coastal access
Upper Newport Bay
Goal 12: Protection of the visual and ecological resources of
Upper Newport Bay
�oo
What We Heard
What's New
Safety
• Seek volunteers for the Community
Emergency Response Team (CERT)
• Address aviation safety concerns,
including airport, drones, and other
emerging technologies
•Invest in safety infrastructure for
biking, walking, and swimming
• Expand communication
infrastructure for emergencies
• Offer community training and
education regarding potential
hazard risks in local neighborhoods
Proposed Updates
Safety
• Preparing for warmer days through tree shade
and cool pavement technologies
• Planning for coastal resilience including a
sea -level rise plan
• Consideration of non -automobile options for
evacuation
• Updated fire hazard maps
• Addresses aviation hazards
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7x+• o
Safety Goals
Coastal Hazards
Goal 1: A community that is resilient to coastal flooding
Goal 2: Beaches that are maintained and protected from erosion
Goal 3: Current and accessible data and information on flooding,
beach erosion, and bluff erosion
Geologic and Seismic Hazards
Goal 4: Buildings and utilities that are protected from seismic and
geologic hazards
Goal 5: Stabilized bluffs to minimize erosion and prevent
landslides in developed areas
Flooding Hazards
Goal 6: A community that is resilient to and protected from
inland flooding
Fire Hazards
Goal 7: Reduced and well -managed urban and wildland fire
hazards
Hazardous Materials Management
Goal 8: A community protected from impacts of hazardous
materials
Safety Goals
Aviation Hazards
Goal 9: A community protected from airport -related hazards
Extreme Heat
Goal 10: A built environment adapted to provide relief from
extreme heat
Emergency Preparedness, Response, and
Recovery
Goal 11: Tested and effective communication systems for
emergency preparedness and response
Goal 12: High -quality public safety, emergency preparedness, and
response services
Goal 13: Evacuation routes and centers that are maintained to
provide functionality during hazardous conditions
Public Safety
Goal 14: A community where residents, employees, and visitors
feel a sense of comfort and safety
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Appendix A 19
VIRTUAL OPEN HOUSE
PRESENTATIONS
PDFs of virtual open house presentation can be found HERE.
Agenda
• Overview & Agenda
• Welcome & Introductions
• What is the General Plan?
• How does it relate to you?
• Online Element Review
• General Plan Elements
Community Input
Proposed Updates
Input & Discussion
• Closing & Next Steps
General Plan Update Element Virtual Open
House
Wednesday, October 22nd
Appendix B 20
Objectives
Build a foundation of knowledge on the General
Process and how it impacts the community
Share the proposed updates to each element anc
community input was included
Solicit input on the draft elements
Guide for Productive Discussions
• Actively participate - we need your input!
• Listen for understanding
• Be concise when commenting, under 2 minutes
• Be courteous and respectful of differences
Welcome & Introductions
Appendix B 21
This Evening's Presenters
Ben Zdeba
Planning Manager
City of Newport Beach
Elizabeth Dickson Joan Isaacson
Project Manager & Planner Facilitator
Dudek Kearns & West
Acknowledgements
Insights provided bythe GPUSC, GPAC, and residents:
Newport Beach Residents & Community Members
General Plan Advisory Committee (Current)
• Jeremy Evans, Co -Chair
• Arlene Greer, Co -Chair
• Nicholas Acevedo
• Virginia Anders-Ellmore
• Dennis Baker
• Curtis Black
• James Carlson
• Annie Clougherty
• Susan DeSantis
• Chuck Ebner
• Rita Goldberg
• David Guder
• Lynn Hackman
• Laird Hayes
• Ruth Kobayashi
• Scott Laidlaw
• Katie Love
• Anthony Maniscalchi
• Thomas Meng
• Jim Mosher
• Amber Snider
• Debbie Stevens
• Christy Walker
• Paul Watkins
General Plan Update Steering Committee
• Nancy Gardner, Chair
• Phillip Brown
• Kimberly Carter
General Plan Advisory Committee (Past)
• Matthew Brady Nancy
• Jeff Cefalia Scarbrough
• Charles Klobe Graham
• Maxwell Pearson Wahlberg
• Robert Rader Lori Williams
• Harrison Rolfes
In collaboration with the:
City of Newport Beach Planning and
Consultant Team
T
How did we get here?
Phase One and Two Outreach included multiple
opportunities for community input:
• More than 50 meetings with GPUSC, GPAC, and GPAC
subcommittees
• Six Pop -Up Events across the City
• Four Community Workshops
• Over 12,000 visitors to the Newport, Together Website
• Over 50,000 residents were reached through paid advertisements,
Appendix B 22
TA VIP!� ! , r Mpg
The General Plan
\�I1/
What is the General Plan?
A General Plan is a guide for the future of a community.
It contains:
IS Goals that set values and direction
• Policies that guide decision -making
• Programs to carry out the actions needed to achieve the
goals
A General Plan is divided into elements that cover a variety
of topics. wi
Updated Draft General Plan Elements
RECREATION NATURAL RESOURCES SAFETY HARBOR, BAY, AND BEACHES LAND USE
O
ARTS AND CULTURE HISTORICAL RESOURCES NOISE* HOUSING CIRCULATION
*Currently being
updated
Updated as part of the 2019 GPU listen &Learn Effort
Appendix B 23
How is a General Plan used?
• City Council uses the General Plan to guide its
decisions
• City staff use the General Plan as a reference to guide
City priorities
• Community members use the General Plan to provide
input to decision -makers and understand Citywide
values and direction
How does it relate to you?
The General Plan Al
Resident!
A General Plan shapes the future of the City
for current and future generations.
Preserving and enhancing quality of life
• Supporting economic growth
• Clarifying City decision -making processes
Providing positive impacts for public
health, sustainability and resilience
• Protecting open spaces and natural
resources
Preparing for natural disasters
q
Appendix B 24
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How to Participate online
--,Newport, Togeti
Let's shape the future of Newport Beach together!
From the Home Page, click "Public Review of
General Plan Elements" to view the elements
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Appendix B 25
Draft
General Plan
'! Elements:
Recreation
Natural Resources
Recreation & Natural Resources
What We Heard
• Improve the local parks and
create more dog parks
• Invest in more community
amenities, recreation and sports
facilities, and community -
oriented spaces
• Ensure clean water for future
generations
• Integrate conservation efforts
with development plans
• Protect open spaces around the
city
Recreation Element
This element addresses parks and open spaces and
recreational programs and facilities.
Proposed Updates:
• More access to parks, open space, and recreation across
Newport Beach
• Access to public beaches
• Park and recreational upgrades to meet the varying needs
of residents
Appendix B 26
Natural Resources Element
This element addresses the conservation of ecosyster
water, energy, and other natural resources that need
protection.
Proposed Updates:
• Enhanced focus on clean energy alternatives
• Planning for sea -level rise
• Wildlife and habitat connectivity
• Preparing for the transition away from oil and gas, where
appropriate
• Prioritizing a clean and healthy natural environment
Input & Discussion
Questions to consider:
• What is meaningful to you about these elements
or topics?
• What would you change, if anything?
c t:
Raise your hand for a verbal
comment
W
N'
Submit your comment online
at Newport, Together
Draft General
Elements:
Submit a Question Via the Zoom
Q&A Feature
Plan t�
Historical Resources
Arts & Culture
Appendix B 27
Arts & Culture and Historical Re
What We Heard
Protect venues, such as Newport
Theatre Arts Center and the public
libraries
• Promote partnerships and
collaborations to support the City's
cultural, educational, and
recreational goals
• Enhance public spaces with art
installations, murals, and sculptures
• Maintain and enhance the character
and charm of Newport Beach
Arts and Culture Element
This element addresses facilities, educational
programming and activities, and events and festivals that
bolster art and culture and enrich the community.
Proposed Updates:
• Supports facilities for the arts and art in public and private spaces
• Enhanced support for City libraries and services
• Support for musical programming
• Supports community engagement in the arts citywide
• Emphasize collaboration with other organizations
Historical Resources Element
This element addresses the protection and preservation
of historical, cultural, and archeological landmarks,
sites, and structures and aims to connect the community
to its storied past.
Proposed Updates:
• Celebration of historical resources
Enhanced outreach, education, and interpretation of Newport
Beach history through signage, partnerships, walking tours,
and school programs
• Consideration of a legacy business program
Appendix B 28
Input &Discussion
Questions to consider:
• What is meaningful to you about these elements
or topics?
• What would you change, if anything?
c t:
Raise your hand for a verbal
comment
0 0
J,
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Submityour,—mment online
at Newport, Together
Submit a Question Via the Zoom
Q&A Feature
v
Draft General Plan
Elements:
Land Use
Harbor, Bay, & Beaches
Safety
Land Use and Harbor, Bay & Beaches
What We Heard
• Invest in beach and harbor infrastructure
• Improve docking access
• Increase public access to docks
• Promote tourism around the bay
• Expand summer trolley
• Prioritize essential amenities like
schools and community centers
• Integrate environmental considerations
into urban planning, ensuring
sustainable development
• Keep the beaches clean and accessible
to the community
Appendix B 29
Safety
What We Heard
• Seek volunteers for the Community
Emergency Response Team (CERT)
• Address aviation safety concerns,
including airport, drones, and other
emerging technologies
• Invest in safety infrastructure for biking,
walking, and swimming
• Expand communication infrastructure
for emergencies
• Offer community training and education
regarding potential hazard risks in local
neighborhoods
Land Use Element
This element addresses the preservation of land, the
location and intensity of development, and
neighborhood design and characteristics.
Proposed Updates:
• Consolidate element to streamline usability
• Emphasizes balanced communities to increase access to essential amenities
• Improve tracking and transparency of development activity
• Align updates to city plans and processes with community vision
Harbor, Bay and Beaches Element
This element addresses boating, fishing, and similar
recreation activities; businesses; tourism; and the local
economy as it relates to the harbor, bay, and beaches.
Proposed Updates:
• Protecting beaches, including beach access
• Strategies to minimize displacement risks from coastal
hazards
• A stronger emphasis on the harbor's economic vitality
• Fosters access to mooring opportunities
Appendix B 30
Safety Element
This element addresses hazards such as wildfires, extreme
heat, and landslides, as well as community feelings of
safety.
Proposed Updates:
• Preparing for warmer days through tree shade and cool
pavement technologies
• Planning for coastal resilience, including a sea -level rise plan
• Consideration of non -automobile options for evacuation
• Updated fire hazard maps
• Address aviation hazards
Input & Discussion
Questions to consider:
• What is meaningful to you about these elements
or topics?
• What would you change, if anything?
c t:
Raise your hand for a verbal
comment
_ti4
Submit your comment online
at Newport, Together
Draft General Plan
Z
Submit a Question Via the Zoom
Q&A Feature
Elements:
Noise
Appendix B 31
Noise Element
This element addresses community noise sources NOISE
and policies to minimize noise for residents and
others who may be sensitive to high noise levels.
Proposed Refresh:
• Updated noise measurements and maps
IS Policy clarification and clean up
• Addressing emerging technologies
• Prioritizing updates to noise regulations
Input & Discussion
a
Questions to consider:
• What is meaningful to you about these elements
or topics?
• What would you change, if anything?
c t:
Raise your hand for a verbal
comment
W
N'
Submit your comment online
at Newport, Together
Submit a Question Via the Zoom
Q&A Feature
Closing & Next Steps
Appendix B 32
Next Steps
REQUESTING COMMENTS BY NOVEMBER 17TH Own
Add your comments online: https://newporttogether..mysocialpinpoint.com/2050-
general-plan-draft-elements
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Contact
Benjamin Zdeba, AICP
Planning Manager
P: 949-644-3253
Email: kdeba@newportbeachca.gov
Jaime Murillo, AICP
Acting CDD Director
P: 949-644-3209
Email: jmurillo�newpvrtbeachca.gov
I
4
Appendix B 33
APPENDIX C
ONLINE QUESTIONNAIRE
COMMENTS
Participants' input from the online comments is listed in Table 5 below,
representing 11 contributors.
Table 5: Comments submitted to the Online Questionnaire.
Element or Section
Comment(s)
• On page 1-5, 1 do not believe the description
of the City's Sphere of Influence or its relation
to the Randall Preserve is accurate. I believe
the total area is smaller, that the Randall
Preserve is partly in the SOI and partly in the
City proper, while part of the SOI is not in the
Randall Preserve. I also believe the entire Randall
Preserve is under the stewardship of the MCRA,
not just "the majority" of it.
• The introductory sections to general plans
typically include a "how to use this document"
section detailing, among other things, the
format of the elements and the meaning of the
notations they may contain, including relation
Introduction
to the Implementation Program and Glossary.
It may also contain statements about the legal
significance of the goals and policies, and what
obligations they place on the City. I see none of
that here.
• The identification of selected neighborhoods
in Figure 1-2 seems arbitrary and often wrong.
"Westcliff," "Mariner's Mile" and "Upper Newport
Bay" all appear in areas that would not normally
be identified as such, while neighborhoods of
equal prominence ("Airport Area," "Newport
Center," "Newport Coast," "Santa Ana Heights"
(parts of which seem to now call themselves
"Bayview Heights"), etc., etc.) are not identified
at all.
Statement
W IqVision
No online comments.
Appendix C 34
Element or Section I Comment(s)
• Goal 1: 1 have two points to make regarding high -
quality recreation programs.
The first one is the city should reconsider how
they issue surf school permits. There are three
licensed Surf schools in the city of Newport Beach
all have been grandfathered in by changing hands
of the corporation to people that were related to
the people that started it or bought companies
from the people that started it. Each of the three
entities hires high school in college kids to supply
the labor of these Surf Lessons. The city will not
entertain any new companies getting permits to
operate Surf Lessons legally. There are plenty of
independent Surf Instructor that are capable of
running a business that have more qualifications
than these high school and college kids that work
for these three pre-existing surf schools. In addition,
the three Surf schools do not have a limit on the
amount of students they can take. Which proves
too much demand is not an issue. Well I agree there
should be insurances, basic safety protocols, and
qualifications to teach. I feel the city has created a
monopoly and it is very un-American to not allow
the free market to straighten out this problem of
limited permits. The best service for the best price
Recreation is who will stay in business and thrive. Not every
licensed serve school needs to offer Surf Camp;
There's plenty of opportunity to issue smaller
licenses to allow avenues for Surf Instructor to
operate legally within the city.
My second point I would like the city to reconsider
is all three of these Surf schools offer private Surf
Lessons and Surf Camp. None of them offer any
specialty Surf programs. I have a specific program
that is geared towards therapeutic recreation for
mental health programs and substance use disorder
programs. I would like to request that the city
reconsider only having surf schools that teach Surf
Camp and tourist lessons.
I am a credentialed, substance -abuse counselor, I
hold an associates degree in human services, and I
have over a decade in Surf instruction experience
and have worked in the field of substance used
disorders since 2011. My methods are sound and
protocols are stricter than what the current Surf
schools operate under. Which is a four to one ratio
my program offers a three to one ratio when it
comes to students to instructors.
Appendix C 35
Element or Section
Comment(s)
[continued] Thank you for reading this comment
and thank you for your consideration.
• Goal 1: Abundance of outside, visitors, damp
in the feasibility of using these programs for
children because it will be based on parking
access accessibility, which there is a little of
• Goal 2: As a senior does not live by the oasis
center, I do not believe there are programs for
seniors in other places. Even if there were, it
would be managed downwardly because of
parking restrictions.
• Goal 3: 1 support the creation of new parks
and connections that expand resident access
to recreation, parks, and open space. Newport
Beach is growing, and with that growth comes
the responsibility to ensure that all residents
— from families with children to seniors —
have safe, convenient, and equitable access to
outdoor spaces.
It is key that the City focus on the people who
live near new and existing parks so they can enjoy
Recreation
them without needing to drive. To truly achieve
this, safe, separated trails and bike lanes must
be built — facilities that parents and children feel
comfortable using. Reliance on sharrows, painted
bike lanes, and signage is not adequate to ensure
safety or encourage active transportation.
By investing in parks and linking them with well -
designed, traffic -separated walking and biking
connections, the City can create a network that
promotes health, recreation, and community while
preserving the coastal character and natural beauty
that makes Newport Beach unique.
• Goal 3: To be honest, we know there's no extra
room for parks other than what we have. Marine
Park has turned into beach parking even though
it was not intended for such. Enforcement is
little.
The crosswalks are dangerous and poorly lit. Many
blind spots that hide pedestrians with the trees.
Again, this was brought up in numerous meetings,
but the city proceeded anyway too bad you don't
listen.
Appendix
Element or Section
Comment(s)
• Goal 4: The Fun Zone area, Balboa Village,
is in shambles and pearly presented. What
happened to the parking structure that was
promised when the market disappeared? How
quickly we forget. Two stories up in two stories
below grade was what was talked about earlier,
but never appeared. City pays poor attention to
the obvious
Recreation
• Goal 7: Need more police, no doubt. Protect
the residence. Multiple crimes committed every
single weekend. Auto theft and personal theft
abound. Inadequate enforcement. Inadequate
speed control. High volume of modified exhaust
vehicles speeding at Balboa Boulevard and
E Street. Requested solar operating speed
readout sign east and west of E Street and East
Balboa Boulevard. This has been requested
several times to city staff with no action taken
• Goal 2: Reduce burden to have private make
chargers for public use
• Goal 4: What are you doing to fix the electric
infrastructure? and replace the road and gas
tax?
• Goal 5: not affordable at this time
• Goal 6: fix the grid, and lower the electric rates
• Goal 10: The previous GP mentioned the NCCP
in the introduction and had a policy concerning
maintenance in various senses of Buck Gully
Natural Resources
and Morning Canyon NR 10.8
• Goal 12: i have a storm drain that dumps trash
and sediment on my property that no agency
will take responsibility for -help in that mapping
• Goal 13: i have a storm drain that dumps trash
and sediment on my property that no agency
will take responsibility for -help in that mapping
• Goal 15: we need to add sand to the beaches
and protect property
• Goal 1: Where are the maps that show what
parcels are affected by these "goals" and plans?
Harbor, Bay, and Beaches
Appendix C 37
Element or Section
Comment(s)
• Goal 1: for beach access along the peninsula, the
boardwalk should be widened to accommodate
more visitors and residents and separate foot
and bicycle traffic. Currently the mixed -use path
has been caused for concern, giving the rise
of e-bikes and speeding along the boardwalk.
Expanding the boardwalk and giving cyclists
their own dedicated space will help improve
these issues
• Goal 1: The issue of all Moorings has been
corrupted and ceases to promote recreation
and fairness to the mooring owners. This is
evidenced by reactions and attitude of the
Harbor commission and the Harbor department.
It's been sold quite clearly that the Harbor
department was supposed to help recreation
and users in the harbor, but the actual facts are,
it has scared and intimidated permit holders
with impunity, not collaboration. To rent out our
moorings, confiscate all the revenue, ignoring
the morning owners, and pay none of the costs
to maintain is and has been a damaged public
policy for too many decades, and it rubs against
a cooperative collaboration. Surely, someone
must be looking at this and passing it over. Is
there no oversight?
Harbor, Bay, and Beaches
• Goal 2: Which parcels? Specifics -bulkhead
recommendations? Liquefaction mitigation
steps?
• Goal 2: The tsunami warning system is a joke.
Repeated efforts to work with city staff has
failed for many years. Public involvement
and concerns for their vulnerability has been
ignored and treated poorly. The sirens are
not heard by the residence nor visitors. The
city has left property owners with a poorly
constructed system with no audio intervention.
Did anyone pay attention to the flash floods
in Texas that wiped out the kids camp and
what the aftermath showed as vulnerability?
We, Peninsula residents do not want to be a
casualty statistic. How many times are residents
supposed to worn city staff before something
critically done. Laguna Beach has embrace the
problem and has addressed it. Here we are just
up the coast and we ignore it.
Appendix C 38
Element or Section
Comment(s)
• Goal 3: Parking problems for visitors,
totally spoil the beach, living experience for
homeowners and visitors alike. The volume
of people should be controlled. There is
poor egress off the peninsula on high impact
weekends. There is a saturation of parking
spaces that cause many residual driving and
pedestrian hazards. This study should be
addressing that for solutions and action and
not ignored. I am pessimistic because of past
experience big development has restrictions
and has requirements to assist in the problem.
We have traffic issues that are not solved and
need more study.
• Goal 3: 1 strongly encourage the City to
reduce or remove the oceanfront parking
lot at Newport Pier and replace it with open
space, shops, or businesses that better serve
residents and visitors. Doing so would also
allow for the long -overdue connection of the
currently bisected boardwalk, restoring safe
and continuous access along one of our most
important public amenities.
The existing parking lot is not only an eyesore
but also a missed opportunity. It blocks one
Harbor, Bay, and Beaches
of the City's most valuable assets, our world -
class ocean views, while creating hazards for
pedestrians, cyclists, and families dining at nearby
restaurants. Dedicating prime oceanfront land to
surface parking prioritizes cars over people and
undermines both safety and quality of life.
Rather than doubling down on parking lots and
street parking that only attract more congestion,
the City should invest in sustainable, forward -
looking mobility solutions that make beach
access easier and safer without adding more
cars. Expanded public transit options — including
protected bike lanes, buses, shuttles, and ideally
a modern light rail line could serve residents and
visitors far more effectively while protecting our
coastal environment.
Historically, the Pacific Electric streetcar
connected regional destinations directly to the
Peninsula, linking Newport Beach with Huntington
Beach and all the way to Los Angeles. A 21st-
century version of that vision could once again
connect at least Costa Mesa and Huntington Beach
to major destinations in Newport Beach, including
the Peninsula, Fashion Island, and Corona del Mar,
and potentially extend even farther.
Appendix C 39
Element or Section
Comment(s)
[continued] Reimagining beach access around
public transit rather than parking lots would not
only reduce traffic and pollution but also create
safer, more vibrant, and more enjoyable public
spaces. This is a once- in -a -generation opportunity
for Newport Beach to lead with vision — to
enhance the character and safety of the Pier area,
strengthen the local economy, and restore access
to uninterrupted coastal views, all while embracing
a cleaner, more connected future.
• Goal 4: It is a total distraction to have bicycle
mobs take over our arterial streets on any given
weekend day. More reinforcement is necessary,
especially for hot rodding with modified
exhaust vehicles, corrupting the peace and
quiet on the peninsula. The lights are on, but
nobody's home because there are so many
issues with visitors' intrusion. It is obvious
that drunk drivers abound and seem to be on
the increase. Visiting Newport Beach is like
going to Disneyland without an entrance fee
at the gate, and by the way, the free water for
showers comes with it.
Harbor, Bay, and Beaches
• Goal 4: Newport has no right to view, how are
you trying to change that?
• Goal 5: That would be great, for those of us
that have to deal with 7 agencies to just dredge
• Goal 6: Help ease the regulations on dredging
• Goal 7: Dog and pet litter continue to have
free rain and unenforced behavior. Dog should
not be on the beaches running free with fecal
matter ignored. The boardwalk officers aren't
improvement I need to remain or increased
as it is dangerous for seniors to walk on the
boardwalk
• Goal 8: That is managing our moorings and
docks
• Goal 8: Traffic signals are not conducive to
arterial movement. Encourages are dangerous
and too frequent to the full of traffic. Somehow,
the volume of traffic needs to be managed.
Residence have to suffer and no one's watching
that.
Appendix C 40
Element or Section
Comment(s)
• Goal 9: at the Harbor department, the
Harbormaster and the deputy Harbormaster
make too much money. This was not envisioned
when this department was developed. It is top-
heavy.
• Goal 10: The quantity of parking spaces is poor
and inhibit the quality of life for residence. The
multiple crosswalks are dangerous as people
do not use them properly.
• Goal 10: "For beach access along the Peninsula,
Harbor, Bay, and Beaches
the boardwalk should be widened to better
accommodate both visitors and residents,
with a clear separation between pedestrian
and bicycle traffic. The current mixed -use
design has become a growing safety concern,
especially with the rise of e-bikes and increased
speeding along the boardwalk.
• Expanding the boardwalk and providing
cyclists with their own dedicated space will
improve safety, reduce conflicts between
users, and enhance the overall experience for
everyone who enjoys this important community
amenity."
Land Use
No online comments.
Arts and Culture
No online comments.
Historical Resources
No online comments.
• Goal 7: Policy S 7.8--The approved tree list for
the city should be sensitive to flammability.
• Goal 10: Would like to see the enforcement of
Little Corona Beach. Nightly fires and wildfire
risk.
Safety
• Goal 12: 1 would like to see the banner towing
planes, Paramotor and drones regulated. We
live on Ocean Blvd and all three are accidents
waiting to happen and a HUGE annoyance to
residents.
Appendix C 41
Element or Section Comment(s)
• Hello, there's a beautiful canyon and ocean
view from Newport Coast Drive and Ridge
Park Road heading west towards the ocean
that is currently blocked by plant overgrowth.
Nothing is located there but bushes. If some of
the bushes were trimmed down the view would
be breathtaking. Thank you for providing the
opportunity for input, much appreciated!
• Banning Ranch/Randall Preserve is now
permanently protected public open space. Yet
the verbiage regarding its development still
remains the NB General Plan. See Chapter 13,
Implementation Program, Sections 3.1a, 4.1, 5,
and 13.1. The General Plan needs to be updated
to delete these inaccuracies and reflect the
current status of Randall Preserve/Banning
Ranch.
• I'm concerned about low-income housing in
Newport Coast on the site of the old Coyote
Canyon landfill. I didn't move to Newport Coast
General Comments or to live in a low-income area. Can't the city put
Implementation Program in the golf course as previously planned (or
just leave it open space) and just put the low-
income housing by the airport, so you don't
alienate the support of the Newport Coast
residents, please.
• This as presented does not address what
parcels and parts of town are affected with
each goal. Provide specific maps or overlays
that each "goal" is addressing
• 1 am concerned about increased traffic on
Newport Coast Drive with the opening of Sage
Hill Middle School and the future low-income
housing. Can another lane on each side of the
road be added between San Joaquin Hills Drive
and the 73 Freeway to help ease traffic.
Appendix C 42
APPENDIX D
OPEN HOUSE COMMENTS
Participants' input from the feedback sheets and the virtual Q&A feature is
listed in Table 6 below, representing five contributors.
Table 6: Comments submitted during the Open House
Element or Section
Comment(s)
• Is lawn fertilizer use monitored or regulated?
Safe bridge routes. Walking/hiking trails
Recreation
• Protection of Public Beaches
• Public art which can rotate, offering local artists
Arts and Culture
exposure
• Through[out] the city
• Access to Viewsheds. Noise/Lack thereof
• I agree with replacing the city vehicle fleet
with clean energy vehicles - hopefully electric.
I agree with installing solar panels on public
infrastructure and parking lots
Natural Resources
We should publicly encourage roofs to add solar
panels and better storage for residential homes
and businesses. Newport Shores power was out
for 1 hr today. I would like to know why
• Coordination with agencies; Clean Water
• We also need to monitor risk for orphaned wells,
and river flooding with a 100-year rainfall.
• We need to develop a program to educate our
history of Indian influence
Historical Resources
' Historical plaques, markers, monuments
• 1 appreciate the emphasis in maintaining
historical sites and indigenous history
• History through education
Appendix D 43
Element or Section
Comment(s)
• Affordable housing. Open Space. Best
Management of Growth. Effort to reduce
incidental trips
• This is land use. More emphasis is on affordable
housing - so people in the service industry,
Land Use
teachers, fire, and police can live in the city
• [Appreciate] Planned Housing
• Remove Coyote Canyon
• As much shoreside walkable access as is
possible. Enhanced opportunities for fishing.
What will parking needs look like in 20 years
Harbor, Bay, and
Maritime support businesses over restaurants?
Beaches
The Harbor Commission should put restrooms
back on its goals and objectives. Make Newport's
"biggest" public dock actually usable
• Protect the harbor
• Lighting that protects dark skies
• Goal 9: Would a surf park be wise in a potential
crash zone? Goal 10: Shade, greenbelts, and
splash pads. 1,2,3 flooding/erosion/$$$
• Possible warning system added to the tsunami
Safety
warning system - near the river?; Review of 10-
year forecasting of the Santa Ana River; Is there
more that can be done to reduce damage from
water during or after earthquakes?
• Fire Hazards
• Update trees - no Cyprus and no pine
• A heavy emphasis on reducing litter/waste, and
educational outreach to residents about what
should and shouldn't go into their recyclable
Other Comments
bins. The city should not phase out the HIGHLY
regulated and monitored mooring, live -aboard
permit program. The last means of affordable
housing here. First responders who rescue
countless tourists, etc...
Appendix D 44
APPENDIX E
BOARDS AND COMMITTEES
COMMENTS
Comments provided by city boards, commissions, and committees are
reflected in Tables 7 to 13 below. Each table is dedicated to one element,
and not organized by board or commission. Red and underlined text
indicates line -by-line edits suggested by the board or commission.
Table 7: Comments from Boards, Committees, and Commissions: Arts and Culture
Element or
Section
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
AC-1: A community
N/A
enriched by and
connected to the
arts, culture, and
education
AC-2: Programs and
Revise Policy AC-2.2 with the following
exhibits in Newport
addition:
Beach that are
"Conduct marketing through the City's
widely promoted,
various social media and communica-
marketed, and
tions platforms to build public awareness
attended
and encourage participation in City -affil-
iated arts, culture, and literary activities.
Cultivate partnerships with local busi-
nesses and other groups for marketinc
efforts for cultural arts. (Imp. 29.1)"
Arts and
Culture
AC-3: Strong
partnerships that
Revise Policy AC-3.1 with the following
addition: "Partner with the community
support thriving
and educational institutions to encour-
arts, culture, and
age and strengthen arts education for
education
children, youth, adults, older adults and
for people of all abilities throughout the
city"
AC-4: Funding that
Revise Policy AC-4.1 with the following
helps local artists
addition: "Partner with, and reasonably,
and art programs
support non-profit, private, and
flourish
community organizations in applying
for public and private grants and
promote community and business
donations, fundraising and sponsorships
that support art, culture, and literary
activities.
Appendix E 45
Element or
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
Section
AC-5: State -of -the-
N/A
art facilities to host
art exhibits and
programs
AC-6: A wide
Revise Policy AC-6.1 with the following
collection of
addition: "Revise the City's public art
art exhibited
policy to (1) establish suitability criteria
throughout Newport
to guide the selection of sites for new
Beach
and innovative public art installations in
a manner that considers citywide needs
and the balanced distribution of art
throughout the city; (2) establish guide-
lines for the commissioning and convey-
ance of public art on private property;
aftd (3) refine guidelines and criteria for
accepting art donations for display in
public spaces and consider establishing
guidelines for storage and long-term
Arts and
maintenance; and (4) consider an art -
Culture
work acquisition plan for expanding the
FC1ity's permanent art inventory. (Imp.
8.2, 9.1)"
Not Specified
Add a new policy regarding the period-
ic re-evaluation of City Arts Grants for
impact.
Not Specified
Add a new policy about cultivating more
culinary arts programs in the City.
Within "Goals,
"Art and Culture Opportunities: Expand -
Policies, and
ed art and culture opportunities can
Actions" under
include new public art installations, cul-
"Arts and Culture
ture events, culinary arts, and programs.
Opportunities"
Creating opportunities to engage with
art and culture across Newport Beach
can make art accessible to people of all
backgrounds and generations."
Table 8: Comments from Boards, Committees, and Commissions: Historical Resources
Element or
Section
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
HR-2: Well-
N/A
documented
Historical
and protected
Resources
archaeological and
paleontological
resources
Appendix E 46
Element or
Section
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
HR-3: Celebrate,
N/A
preserve, and protect
local history
HR-4: Enshrine local
Make the following revision to Policy
history through
HR-4.3: "Encourage collaboration with
education
local preservation organizations, like
the Newport Beach Historical Society,
to research, conduct outreach, and
develop programs and activities to
Historical
encourage and support historic pres-
Resources
ervation and euhistorical tourism.
(Imp.14.16)"
HR-5: Celebrate tribal
N/A
cultural resources
Within the "Overview."
Add a sentence about tourism.
Table 9: Comments from Boards, Committees, and Commissions: Harbor, Bay, and Beaches
Element or
Section
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
HBB-1: Local businesses
Harbor - HBB-1.2.
and water -dependent
commercial uses in the
• Clarify if new development is
Newport Harbor area
private, public or both and also
that are preserved to
whether it is at any time or only
maintain and enhance
post -development. For example, a
the economic activity
public use (i.e., Marina Park) could
charm of the waterfront
be redeveloped 25 years from
community
now and it would affect water use
during construction.
Harbor, Bay,
HBB-1.4.
and Beaches
• The phrase "...bridges across City -
controlled roads..." is unclear.
• Consider adding a reference to
modern mooring technology
(e.g., helix anchors) and mooring
field optimization to improve
safety, environmental impact, and
capacity.
Appendix E 47
Element or
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
Section
[continued] HBB-
HBB-1.9.
1: businesses and
water -dependent
• What is the definition of a "small"
commercial uses
boat? It should include personal
in the Newport
watercraft and manual and human -
Harbor area that
powered craft.
are preserved
• We should be more proactive than
to maintain
"teach customers how to safely
and enhance
operate the watercraft" entails —
the economic
should this be more formal training,
activity charm of
safety briefings, or informational
the waterfront
materials?
community
Support continued short-term rental
of boats, wave runners, stand up
paddle boards and other human power
watercraft while encouraging vendors to
teach customers how to safely operate.
HBB-2: Minimized
Harbor - HBB-2.1. The bullets need more
risk of displacement
clarity on what the intent is. Also, the list
by coastal hazards
seems limited.
Harbor, Bay,
and Beaches
HBB-3: A harbor,
Harbor - HBB-3.1. It is unclear how more
bay, and beaches
waterfront could be created. What does
that attract tourism
the word "reasonable" mean here?
and maintain the
character of coastal
neighborhoods
111313-4:
Harbor - HBB-4. Clarify what are
Sufficient coastal
believed to be the current "view
infrastructure that
corridors".
protects coastal -
dependent and
public recreational
uses and view
corridors while
matching the
character of
the surrounding
development and
protecting coastal
and visual resources
Appendix E 48
Element or
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
Section
HBB-5: Coordination
Harbor - HBB-5.3. The "other controlling
among City,
agencies" should be named.
County of Orange,
State, and Federal
agencies having
regulatory authority
of Newport Harbor
and Newport Bay
HBB-6: Maintenance
Harbor - Goal HBB-6. Maintenance and
and enhancement
enhancement of deep -water channels
of deep -water
should include a long-term sediment
channels to ensure
management funding plan. Without
they remain
funding language, dredging goals may be
navigable by boats
hard to achieve.
HBB-6.3. Has "HBB-7.1" repeated twice
and should be incorporated in HBB-7.1.
Confusing wording.
HBB-7: Protection
Harbor - HBB-7.1. This is listed twice.
and restoration of
Clarify who is being encouraged and
Harbor, Bay,
beaches and dunes
what traditional infrastructure would be
and Beaches
reduced. This is unclear. Also, should the
specific locations of sand replenishment
and nourishment and dune restoration be
named?
HBB-7.2. What is the expected source of
the sand?
WQ/CT - [Add to existing shoreline/
sediment policies HBB-7.4 through
HBB-7.6:] As part of evaluating shoreline
protection, prioritize nature -based
strategies (e.g., dune restoration,
strategic nourishment, living shorelines)
before structural armoring. Establish
and maintain action thresholds for
beach width and elevation that, when
exceeded, trigger defined nourishment
or dune management responses and
budget requests. Identify structural
armoring (groins/jetties/artificial reefs)
enhancements to advance sand/beach
retention with protection for surfing
function.
Appendix E 49
Element or
Section
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
HBB-8: Well-
Harbor - HBB-8.1. Explain how expansion of
managed and
existing marinas might be possible.
economically
productive harbor,
HBB-8.2. Explain what is meant by "lower -
bay, and beaches
cost" recreational boating.
HBB-8.3. Consider changing the word
"provide" to "maintain" as there likely isn't
space for additional anchorages in federal
areas.
HBB-8.5. Who would the temporary use be
provided by?
HBB-8.7.
• Explain what the term "reasonable"
means. How are the renewable annual
permits in compliance with State Lands
Commission?
• This is on "Live Aboard permits",
shouldn't we change "Reasonable
maximum number" for a live -
aboard permit and tie it to a specific
percentage of moorings as it is today?
Harbor, Bay,
and Beaches
HBB-9: Cost-
Harbor - HBB-9. Consider adding language
efficient servicing
about adopting technology for harbor
and managing of
management (smart buoys, online mooring
Newport Harbor
rentals, vessel tracking) to improve
efficiency and user experience. This is in
process today.
HBB-9.1. Explain what the term
"reasonable" means.
HBB-9.3. "Reasonable value for the
lease rates" should be "fair market value
per State Lands Commission". Are the
"waterfront developments" public, private
or either? Under "Public Access to Coastal
Resources", the term "worst case" is stated
in reference to sea level rise. There have
been numerous sea level studies that have
a wide range in theories about the total
rise over time. As such, worst case should
be better defined. Which study should be
cited?
Appendix E 50
Element or
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
Section
HBB-10: Safe and
Harbor - HBB-10.5. Expand on this
accessible beach
to commit to funding and include the
and harbor access
Harbor Department and on the water fire
points
suppression.
PB&R - We believe the safety of people
on foot versus motorized and other
non -foot traffic should be a balancing
factor in the Preamble to HBB-10 and
where otherwise applicable. Especially in
consideration of prioritizing safe access
to parks, beaches, & other recreation
facilities.
HBB-11: Multifaceted
Harbor - HBB-11. Expand wayfinding
and integrated
beyond signage to include digital tools
coastal access
(apps, QR codes, real-time maps) for
visitor navigation which is in effect today.
HBB-11.1. Suggest changing the word
"encourage" to "maintain".
HBB-11.3. It is not clear where a marine
Harbor, Bay,
terminal could be located in Newport
and Beaches
Harbor. Does this HBB apply?
HBB-12: Protection
Harbor - HBB - 12.1. Maintain public use in
of the visual and
Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve and
ecological resources
Ecological Reserve to the extent that such
of Upper Newport
use is consistent with the preservation of
Bay
sensitive resources including monitoring
and maintenance of Newport Bay Trash
Interceptor.
PB&R - Who exactly is the Newport Bay
Watershed Executive Committee? Also,
should the Newport Bay Conservancy
be referenced as a coordinating entity
in HBB-12.2, as the Upper Newport Bay
is their area of specialty and there is
longstanding coordination with the City?
Appendix E 51
Element or
Section
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
Not Specified
Harbor - There should be something
in this document to maintain the
relationship with the County for the
launch ramp facility as there are no
other launch ramps in the harbor., Could
consider identifying a new launch ramp
location owned by the City. If the County
were to end the lease arrangement, how
would vessel launching be possible?
Not Specified
Harbor - There should be something in
the document to maintain the relationship
with fuel dock owner(s). If those owner(s)
decided to redevelop their property into
something other than a fuel station, how
would vessel fueling be possible?
Not Specified
Harbor - Consider adding a section that
defines the City Harbor Department's
current role and the need to maintain this.
Harbor, Bay,
and Beaches
Not Specified
Harbor - There is no mention of the
Harbor Department's current role in
managing the harbor, coordinating
safety, providing on -the -water support,
and generating revenue for the Harbor
Department budget and the Tidelands
Fund. Including these functions
would acknowledge the Department's
importance in daily operations and long-
term harbor sustainability.
Not Specified
Harbor - The Orange County Sheriff's
Harbor Patrol role is mentioned only
indirectly through safety policies.
Consider adding a specific policy on
collaboration between the City and the
Sheriff's Department to ensure consistent,
effective, and well -coordinated law
enforcement on the water.
Appendix E 52
Element or
Section
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
Within the
Harbor - The data is from 2018. Should
"Economic Value of
we obtain later data and add a note that
the Harbor" Section
this data will be updated every X years to
maintain relevance?
Within the
WQ/CT -
"Introduction"
Recommends replacing the Purpose
Section
paragraph with emphasis on economic
impact. Potential draft (ILLUSTRATIVE
FOR FLOW AND EMPHASIS,
CONSULTANT SHOULD REVIEW
FOR ACCURACY OF NUMBERS AND
CONTEXT)
"Newport Beach's harbor, bay, and ocean
beaches are the City's most valuable
public assets —foundational to our
ecology, economy, and way of life. Tney
anchor a visitor economy that draws
more than 9.5 million overnight and day -
trip visitors to the harbor area annually
and accounts for slightly over 30 percent
of all direct tourism -related spending
Harbor, Bay,
in the City (nearly $400 million). The
and Beaches
harbor alone generates an estimated
$547.4 million in direct economic output
and supports about 4,440 direct jobs,
with total countywide output near $787
million.
This significant economic activity stems
from coastal -dependent recreation
and access to the beaches, water -
based activities in the harbor and bay,
and the habitats of Upper Newport
Bay that buffer storms and support
biodiversity. The purpose of the HB&B
element should be to sustain water
quality and habitat, protect and enhance
public access and recreation, and direct
investment in coastal resilience so that
these community assets continue to
support residents, visitors, and the local
businesses and economy."
Appendix E 53
Element or
Section
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
[continued] Within
Overview Paragraph - how can we add
the "Introduction"
measurable context and emphasize
Section
beaches vitality using background
analysis?
Scale of the shoreline. Newport Beach
manages an interconnected 47.7-mile
shoreline system composed of XX miles
of bay and ocean beaches and vital dunes
to the navigational waters of Newport
Harbor and the tidal wetlands of Upper
Newport Bay. Our region -serving beach
and water recreation facilitates vital
visitor -serving businesses and protects
backshore communities, neighborhoods
and infrastructure.
Activity and access. Newport Harbor is
the largest recreational boat harbor on
the West Coast, with more than 9,000
recreational boats. Navigation, harbor
water quality, and marina policies must
complement beach access and safety.
Our beaches serve an estimated 8
Harbor, Bay,
million visitors, swimmers and surfers
and Beaches
a year. Beach and boating users are
the backbone of Newport's hospitality
economy.
Not Specified
WQ/CT - Discovery and Potential
Creation of a City Committee
Emphasizing City Beaches.
• Issue: The Beaches are a vital part of
our community. Yet there is no clear
oversight into Beach management,
economic programs tied to beaches,
and issues tied to Coastal Resilience.
This void in management needs
to be addressed, and may be best
resolved by the creation of a new City
committee focused on the topic. Or
clarification on where this lives.
Appendix E 54
Element or
Section
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
[continued] Not
Beaches & Coastal Resilience
Specified
Committee. Establish a standing
Beaches & Coastal Resilience
Committee to advise the City Council
on ocean -beach management,
sand budgeting and replenishment,
dune restoration and other
nature -based shoreline adaptation,
sea -level -rise planning to include
Local Coastal Program (LCP) update
recommendations, watershed
education and outreach, and provide
direction on Tidelands Infrastructure
Capital Plan priorities affecting ocean
beaches.
• Scope and Deliverables. The
Committee's annual work
program will include: (a) a State
of the Beaches report (conditions,
monitoring results, postings,
and access); (b) an Annual
Sand & Shoreline Work Plan
(recommended nourishment/
retention actions, sequencing, and
Harbor, Bay,
partnerships); and (c) advice on
and Beaches
grant applications and interagency
agreements (e.g., with the United
States Army Corps of Engineers
and the Regional Water Quality
Control Board).
• Composition. Appointments should
reflect Peninsula, Corona del Mar,
and Upper Bay neighborhoods
and include expertise in coastal
engineering/geomorphology,
Harbor Commission/marina
operations, lifeguard/ocean safety,
hospitality industry, environmental/
nonprofit stewardship, tourism/
hospitality, and youth/education.
Appendix E 55
Element or
Section
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
[continued] Not
Implementation Considerations. Add
Specified
to the Implementation Program:
• (i) adopt an establishing resolution
and bylaws;
• (ii) assign staff liaisons from
Public Works/Harbor Commission,
Community Development, and
Utilities/Water Quality;
• (iv) publish an annual State of the
Beaches report.
• (v) Assign a lead City department
and form an interdepartmental
coastal resilience team (Public
Works/Harbor, Community
Development, Utilities/Water
Quality, and Fire -Lifeguards
with liaison from City Council).
Establish quarterly coordination
with County and State partners
Coordination & Roles (Cross -References)
• Clarify roles among bodies as
follows: Beaches & Coastal Resilience
Harbor, Bay,
Committee — beach condition, sand
and Beaches
budgets, nature -based shoreline
adaptation, and related public
education; Water Quality / Coastal
Tidelands Committee — water quality
and habitat; Harbor Commission —
navigation, moorings, and harbor
operations; Parks, Beaches &
Recreation Commission — park/beach
programming and amenities.
Direct staff to bring an annual joint
session among relevant groups to
review the State of the Beaches report,
monitoring results, economic impact, and
the Annual Sand & Shoreline Work Plan
before budget adoption.
Appendix E 56
Table 10: Comments from Boards, Committees, and Commissions: Recreation
Element or
Section
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
R-3: New parks and
Would it be relevant to include something
connections that
about assessing the use of parks and how
increase resident
under-utilized areas might be re -
access to recreation,
purposed for public use? (i.e. the back
parks, and open
corner of Sunset
space opportunities
Ridge Park behind the playground)
R-4: Parks and
We like the idea of promoting more dog
recreation facilities
parks. We believe this should have its own
that are preserved,
bullet point as opposed to being a part of
upgraded, and well-
Policy R-4.2.
maintained
The bullet point prioritizing new dog
parks might mention the frequency of
infractions related to dogs off leash,
dogs in protected areas, etc., and that
additional dog parks would not only
provide dogs a safe place to recreate, but
reduce the dangers to people of dogs off
leash and to wildlife and more of dogs in
protected open spaces.
Recreation
R-5: Parks and
Policy R-5.8: Use reasonable efforts to
recreational facilities
evaluate tree canopy cover in parks and
that are adapted to
the public right-of-way, considering
meet a variety of
shade and priority active transportation
needs for existing
corridors. (Policy S-7.1.5)
and future residents
R-6: Established
N/A
and well -maintained
relationships
to facilitate
interagency and
interorganizational
coordination
R-7: Protection of
We believe the safety of people on foot
public beach access
versus motorized and other non -foot
traffic should be a balancing factor in the
Preamble to R-7 and where otherwise
applicable. Especially in consideration of
prioritizing safe access to parks, beaches,
& other recreation facilities.
Appendix E 57
Element or
Section
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
R-8: Adequate
We like the recognition of the need
support facilities at
for providing and maintaining support
parks and recreation
facilities in parks and recreational spaces
areas
in Policy R-8. We suggest specifically
calling out the need for additional
restrooms or porta potties and drinking
Recreation
fountains near the Upper Newport Bay
where increasing numbers of people
are traversing the streets and pathways
on foot, bicycles, and other non -foot
vehicles.
Table 11: Comments from Boards, Committees, and Commissions: Natural Resources
Element or
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
Section
NR-1: Reduced
PB&R - We believe the safety of people
transportation-
on foot versus motorized and other non -
related emissions to
foot traffic should be a balancing factor in
improve air quality
NR-1.1 (safety consideration in addition to
promoting walkable & bikeable
neighborhoods) and where otherwise
applicable. Especially in consideration of
prioritizing safe access to parks, beaches,
& other recreation facilities.
NR-2: Electric
N/A
vehicle charging
or other clean
Natural
technology
Resources
infrastructure to
serve the growing
share of clean -
energy vehicles
NR-3: Reduced air
N/A
pollution emissions
from ground
operations at John
Wayne Airport
Mineral and Oil
Resources
Appendix E 58
Element or
Section
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
NR-4: Preparation
N/A
for the orderly
transition of oil and
gas resources, as
deemed appropriate
NR-5:Increased
N/A
electrification or use
of renewable energy
at public facilities to
reduce gasoline and
natural gas usage
and emissions
NR-6: Electrification
N/A
or renewable energy
incentives for
existing buildings to
reduce natural gas
emissions
NR-7: Native and
PB&R - We like that the policies in this
Natural
naturalized non-
Goal highlight the importance and value
Resources
invasive species
of our Urban Forest. Additionally, we think
habitats in parks
it is important to recognize the threat of
and public open
invasive species and the significance of
space
their eventual removal.
NR-8: Cooperation
N/A
with State and
Federal resource
protection agencies
and private
organizations to
protect terrestrial
and marine
resources
NR-9: Community-
N/A
driven initiatives
for ecosystem
conservation
Appendix E 59
Element or
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
Section
NR-10: Land use
N/A
and development
standards to
conserve important
ecosystem services
and habitats
NR-11: Coordination
N/A
with relevant
agencies to reduce
pollutants of
concern in Newport
Bay
NR-12: Enhanced
N/A
green infrastructure
to help prevent
runoff into Newport
Bay
NR-13: Standards
WQ/CT - (Note - I think we need to
and programs
add more specifics around storm drain
Natural
to limit runoff of
installation - the City apparently has a
Resources
pollution to preserve
plan to do this but I have not seen the
water quality
implementation)
of groundwater
Install storm drain screens on all storm
sources
drains that dump directly into the bay or
ocean.
NR-14: Minimized
N/A
adverse effects to
water quality from
sanitary sewer
outflows
NR-1S: Beach
N/A
nourishment, sand
retention, and
sediment restoration
projects
NR-16: Reduced
N/A
potable water use
for landscaping on
public lands
Appendix E 60
Element or
Section
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
NR-17: Water-
N/A
efficient landscaping
incentives for
private property
NR-18: Viewsheds
N/A
and corridors that
are preserved
NR-19: Minimized
N/A
visual impacts of
signs and utilities
NR-20: Protection
N/A
of archaeological
and paleontological
resources
Not Specified
WQ/CT - City-wide initiative to reduce
its trash footprint to prevent runoff into
Upper Newport Bay, Harbor and Beaches.
Consideration of targeting single use
Natural
plastic waste.
Resources
• Single use plastic waste is the number
one trash category that negatively
impacts Newport Beach's marine
environment, impacting water quality,
coastal habitats and beach and harbor
recreation.
• Combating single use plastic waste in
our environment is now a global crisis.
Require Newport Beach to conduct
analysis on short and long term
measures to reduce single use plastic
waste in the City limits and all areas of
City operations.
• Comply with plastic waste reduction
mandates already passed into CA law,
specifically AB 1276 (passed in 2022),
otherwise known as the "Skip the
Stuff."
Appendix E 61
Element or
Section
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
[continued] Not
Implement programs that would
Specified
encourage and/or incentivize
businesses, particularly restaurants
and food establishments, to reduce
their single use plastic footprint.
• Develop public outreach programs to
raise awareness around the negative
impacts of plastic pollution. Leverage
Natural
local NGO partners and other
Resources
community -based organizations.
Initiate review of the short- and long-
term fiscal impacts to a waste reduction
program including, energy consumption,
water reduction, capacity of landfills for
municipal waste and future State laws and
mandates.
Table 72: Comments from Boards, Committees, and Commissions: Safety
Element or
Section
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
S-1: A community
WQ/CT - [Insert in Safety Element under
that is resilient to
Coastal Hazards; cross-reference in HBB
coastal flooding
Administration/Coordination.]
Policy S-1.X / HBB-NEW-SLR (Finish
Early). Adopt and submit a Sea -Level -Rise
(SLR) Plan and Local Coastal Program
(LCP) amendments for California Coastal
Commission certification by December
2029—four years ahead of the statutory
deadline —to protect beaches and
public access and to take advantage of
accelerated application processing for
state and federal funding afforded to
Safety
early certification communities.
Consider Funding Sources. Establish and
maintain shoreline protection reserves in
the Capital Improvement Program and /
or Tidelands Infrastructure Capital Plan to
implement early actions identified in the
SLR Plan.
Appendix E 62
Element or
Section
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
S-2: Beaches that are maintained and
N/A
protected from erosion
S-3: Current and accessible data
N/A
and information on flooding, beach
erosion, and bluff erosion
S-4: Buildings and utilities that are
N/A
protected from seismic and geologic
hazards
S-5: Stabilized bluffs to minimize
N/A
erosion and prevent landslides in
developed areas
S-6: A community that is resilient to
N/A
and protected from inland flooding
S-7: Reduced and well -managed urban
N/A
and wildland fire hazards
S-8: A community protected from the
N/A
impacts of hazardous materials
Safety
S-9: A community protected from
N/A
airport -related hazards
S-10: A built environment adapted to
N/A
provide relief from extreme heat
S-11: Tested and effective
N/A
communication systems for
emergency preparedness and
response
S-12: High -quality public safety,
N/A
emergency preparedness, and
response services
S-13: Evacuation routes and centers
N/A
that are maintained to provide
functionality during hazardous
conditions
S-14: A community where residents,
N/A
employees, and visitors feel a sense of
comfort and safety
Appendix E 63
Table 73: Comments from Boards, Committees, and Commissions: Land Use
Element or
Section
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
LU-1: A City that manages growth and
N/A
change through land use decisions
that are consistent with the General
Plan
LU-2: Well-balanced land uses
N/A
with adequate community services
and supporting infrastructure that
support livability, provide residential
opportunities, promote new
complementary uses, sustain and
enhance economic vitality, and sustain
the natural environment
LU-3: A city that values an
N/A
aesthetically pleasing built
environment
LU-4: Distinct neighborhoods and
N/A
villages that accommodate planned
development while maintaining their
unique character
LU-5: Residential neighborhoods that
N/A
are well -designed and contribute
to the livability and quality of life of
Land Use
residents
LU-6: Commercial districts and centers
N/A
that are well -planned and exhibit
a high level of architectural and
landscape quality
LU-7: Mixed -use districts designed
N/A
and planned to ensure compatibility
among a variety of uses
LU-8: Office and business parks
N/A
exhibit a high -quality image, are
attractive, and provide quality working
environments for employees and
services for the community
LU-9: Industrial districts that provide
N/A
flexibility to incorporate community -
serving uses and encourage transition
to co -locate employment, residential,
and creative and artistic uses
Appendix E 64
Element or
Section
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
LU-10: Public and institutional uses
N/A
that enhance the quality of life for
residents and are located and designed
to complement Newport Beach's
neighborhoods
LU-11: Housing opportunity sites: A City
N/A
with sufficient housing opportunities
LU-12: Corridors that are compatible
N/A
with surrounding uses, are well -designed
and attractive, minimize traffic impacts,
and provide adequate parking
LU-13: Corona del Mar: A pedestrian-
N/A
oriented village serving as the center
of community commerce, culture, and
social activity
LU-14: Mariners' Mile: A mixed -use
N/A
corridor that reflects the Newport Bay
waterfront, supports and respects
residential uses, promotes pedestrian
Land Use
activity, and exhibits a high -quality visual
image
LU-15: Old Newport Boulevard: A
N/A
corridor of uses and services that
support Hoag Hospital and nearby
residential neighborhoods
LU-16: Western Entry Corridor: A
N/A
gateway corridor with connections to
the Santa Ana Bike Trail and Randall
Preserve, as well as commercial clusters
that serve local residents and coastal
visitors at key intersections, interspersed
with compatible residential development
LU-17: Airport Area: A connected and
N/A
complete community that supports
residents and businesses
LU-18: Balboa Peninsula: A series of
N/A
pedestrian -oriented districts with a mix
of visitor -serving, marine -related, retail,
live/work, and residential uses
Appendix E 65
Element or
Section
Goal/Section
Comment(s)
LU-19: Balboa Island: A walkable,
N/A
compact coastal district with
residential, visitor -serving, and
community -oriented uses
LU-20: Newport Center/Fashion
N/A
Island: A high -quality downtown
that supports residents,
businesses, and visitors
LU-21: West Newport Mesa: A
N/A
live/work community connected
to key resources
LU-22: Coyote Canyon: A
N/A
community that balances homes
with the natural environment
LU-23 Dover/Westcliff: A mixed-
Consider a policy that
use community connected to
prioritizes opportunity for
citywide resources
residential redevelopment in
this Focus Area.
LU-24: Infrastructure that
N/A
Land Use
supports new development,
maintains and improves existing
development, and is adaptable to
new technologies
LU-25: A prompt and efficient
N/A
system for development permit
processing
LU-26: Efficient use of land to
N/A
create livable neighborhoods and
support economic development
LU-27: A city with healthy
N/A
communities for all
LU-28: A City with mutually
N/A
beneficial land use conservation
and development
LU-29: Sphere of Influence: A
Reconsider the inclusion of
regional natural resource that is
encouraging a "linear park."
preserved for future generations
Appendix E 66
Attachment C
Resolution Dissolving the GPUSC and GPAC
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-11
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF NEWPORT BEACH, CALIFORNIA, DISSOLVING THE
GENERAL PLAN UPDATE STEERING COMMITTEE AND
GENERAL PLAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE
WHEREAS, Section 200 of the City Charter, of the City of Newport Beach ("City"),
vests the City Council with the authority to make and enforce all laws, rules and
regulations with respect to municipal affairs subject only to the restrictions and limitations
contained in the City Charter and the State Constitution, and the power to exercise, or act
pursuant to any and all rights, powers, and privileges or procedures granted or prescribed
by any law of the State of California ("State");
WHEREAS, the City Council initiated a review of the City of Newport Beach
General Plan ("General Plan") on January 22, 2019, and adopted Resolution No. 2019-
7, establishing the General Plan Update Steering Committee, which was subsequently
amended pursuant to Resolution No. 2019-20, to assist the City in reviewing and updating
the General Plan;
WHEREAS, due to the allocation of housing units to the City for the 6th Cycle
Regional Housing Needs Assessment, the General Plan Update Steering Committee was
dissolved on January 14, 2020, and the Housing Element Update Advisory Committee
was created pursuant to Resolution No. 2020-6 to assist the City in preparing the 6th Cycle
Housing Element;
WHEREAS, the City Council adopted the 6th Cycle Housing Element on
September 13, 2022, which was then certified as statutorily compliant by the State
Department of Housing and Community Development on October 5, 2022;
WHEREAS, with the adoption and certification of the 6th Cycle Housing Element
completed, City staff restarted a comprehensive review of the General Plan;
WHEREAS, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2022-2 on January 25,
2022, reestablishing the General Plan Update Steering Committee ("GPUSC"), which was
subsequently amended pursuant to Resolution No. 2025-3, to assist the City in reviewing
and updating the General Plan;
WHEREAS, one of the responsibilities of the GPUSC was to make a
recommendation to the City Council on the formation and membership of a General Plan
Advisory Committee ("GPAC") that would help guide policy changes associated with the
update of the General Plan;
Resolution No. 2026-
Page 2 of 3
WHEREAS, the GPUSC's recommendations were presented to the City Council
on September 13, 2022, and the GPAC was created pursuant to Resolution 2022-59;
WHEREAS, since that time, the GPUSC and GPAC have collectively met fifty-
seven times at public meetings, in accordance with Government Code Section 54950 et
seq. ("Ralph M. Brown Act"), -
WHEREAS, various subcommittees were established by the GPAC to focus
efforts on individual elements and community member participation on a topic -by -topic
basis;
WHEREAS, the subcommittees met an additional forty seven times at public
meetings;
WHEREAS, based on the work conducted at the meetings, the GPAC and
GPUSC guided the preparation of thirteen technical resource documents and, ultimately,
revamped the Introduction, Vision Statement, and eight of the draft General Plan
Elements;
WHEREAS, at a special joint meeting of the GPUSC and GPAC on January 21,
2026, the GPAC reviewed the final draft update of the General Plan; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Resolution Nos. 2025-2 and 2025-3, the membership of
both the Advisory Committee and the Steering Committee will expire at the first City
Council meeting in February and there is no need for additional meetings; therefore, it is
appropriate to dissolve the committees.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Newport Beach resolves as
follows:
Section 1: The City Council does hereby dissolve the GPUSC and the GPAC.
Resolution Nos. 2022-2, 2022-59, 2025-2, and 2025-3 are hereby rescinded.
Section 2: The recitals provided in this resolution are true and correct and are
incorporated into the operative part of this resolution.
Section 3: If any section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this
resolution is, for any reason, held to be invalid or unconstitutional, such decision shall not
affect the validity or constitutionality of the remaining portions of this resolution. The City
Council hereby declares that it would have passed this resolution, and each section,
subsection, sentence, clause or phrase hereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or
Resolution No. 2026-
Page 3 of 3
more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses or phrases be declared invalid or
unconstitutional.
Section 4: The City Council finds the adoption of this resolution is not subject to
the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) (the
activity will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the
environment) and 15060(c)(3) (the activity is not a project as defined in Section 15378)
of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 6, Chapter 3,
because it has no potential for resulting in physical change to the environment, directly or
indirectly.
Section 5: This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption by the
City Council, and the City Clerk shall certify the vote adopting the resolution.
ADOPTED this 10th day of February, 2026.
Lauren Kleiman
Mayor
ATTEST:
Lena Shumway
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
CITY TTORNEY'S OFFICE
7
4�.e— C� _-
ar n C. Harp
City Attorney