HomeMy WebLinkAbout#15 CEQA Pipeline Replacement Agenda Item # 15
TRUCKEE DONNER
Public Utility District
ACTION
To: Board of Directors
From: Neil Kaufman
Date: December 02, 2009
Subject: Approval of CEQA Initial Study for 2010 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, 2008 and 2009 as part of this program.
3. NEW INFORMATION
The planned 2010 pipeline construction currently covers about 10,800 feet of pipeline, the
majority 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 14, 2009, the
General Manager approved a Task Order with Inland Ecosystems to perform the CEQA
Initial Study for a cost of$3,950.
CEQA Initial Study has been completed and is ready for circulation, review and public
comment. The current project schedule is given below:
December 2, 2009 - Board Approval of CEQA Initial Study
December 16, 2009- Public Hearing on CEQA Initial Study
January 20, 2010 -Adoption of Final CEQA Document
January 2010 - Begin Advertising for Bids
February 2010 - Open Bids &Award Contract
May 2010 - Begin Construction
4. FISCAL IMPACT
There is no direct cost associated with approval of the Initial Study. The funds to pay
for the preparation of the Initial Study come from Water Department Facilities Fees.
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) Set a Public Hearing date of December 16, 2009.
Ed Taylor Michael D. Holley
Water Utility Manager General Manager