HomeMy WebLinkAbout9 CEQA Pipeline replacement Agenda Item # 9
ACTION
To: Board of Directors
From: Neil Kaufman
Date: November 19, 2008
Subject: Approval of CEQA Initial Study for 2009 Pipeline Replacement
Project
1. WHY THIS MATTER IS BEFORE THE BOARD
Board authorization is required to approve a CEQA Initial Study and direct that it be circulated.
2. HISTORY
In 2005 and 2006, the Water Department made Board presentations regarding the condition
of existing water pipelines and the need to pursue a pipeline replacement program. The
District subsequently issued a COP in 2006 and dedicated a portion of those funds for the
pipeline replacement program. Pipeline construction projects have been undertaken during
2006, 2007 and 2008 as part of this program.
The planned 2009 pipeline construction covers about 17,400 feet of pipeline, all of which is
located in the Tahoe Donner area. These pipeline alignments are shown on Figure 1. A
number of these pipeline alignments involve replacement of the existing pipe with a new pipe
of the same size. These pipelines are Categorically Exempt from review under CEQA.
However, some of the existing pipelines are too small and need to be upsized. These
pipelines require a CEQA review. On September 17, 2008, the Board approved a contract
with Inland Ecosystems to perform the CEQA Initial Study.
3. NEW INFORMATION
The CEQA Initial Study has been completed and is ready for circulation, review and public
comment. The current project schedule is given below:
November 19, 2008- Board Approval of CEQA Initial Study
December 17, 2008-Public Hearing on CEQA Initial Study
January 7, 2009-Adoption of Final CEQA Document
January 2009- Begin Advertising for Bids
February 2009-Open Bids&Award Contract
May 2009- Begin Construction
4. FISCAL IMPACT
There is no direct cost associated with approval of the Initial Study.
5. RECOMMENDATION
1) Authorize staff to file the proposed negative declaration and environmental initial study
with the Office of the Nevada County Clerk.
2) Authorize staff to file the proposed negative declaration and environmental study with
responsible and interested agencies and with the State Clearinghouse.
3) Authorizing staff to publish a notice of public review period and public hearing on the
proposed negative declaration.
horizing staff to set a public hearing date of December 17, 2008.
Ed Taylor Michael D. Holley
Water Utility Manager General Manager