Current MSR's

L A F Co ocal gency ormation mmission OF KINGS COUNTY MUNICIPAL SERVICE REVIEWS FOR CITIES AND COMMUNITY DISTRICTS Prepared by: Jerry C. James, LAFCo Senior Staff October 5, 2007 Adopted October 24, 2007 By LAFCO Resolution No. 07-05 LOCAL AGENCY FORMATION COMMISSION OF KINGS COUNTY (LAFCO) COMMISSIONERS: CITY MEMBERS: Sid Craighead (Avenal) Jim Wadsworth (Corcoran) Mary Hornsby (Lemoore) Alternate City Member COUNTY MEMBERS: Joe Neves (Lemoore-Stratford area) (Chairman) Jon Rachford (Corcoran-Avenal area) (Vice-Chairman) Alene Taylor (East Hanford area) Alternate County Member PUBLIC MEMBERS: Paul Thompson (Hanford) Alternate Public Member (Vacant) LAFCO of Kings County: William R. Zumwalt Executive Officer Greg Gatzka Assistant Executive Officer Jerry C. James Senior Staff Terri Yarbrough Secretary Peter Moock/Kyle Sand Legal Counsel 2007 MSR Page ii Table of Contents SECTION 1...............................................................................................................................................................1 1.0 INTRODUCTION TO MUNICIPAL SERVICE REVIEWS......................................................................1 SECTION 2...............................................................................................................................................................7 2.0 CITY OF AVENAL....................................................................................................................................7 2.1 LOCATION, ADMINISTRATION, MANAGEMENT, AND OPERATIONS.........................................7 2.2 POPULATION AND GROWTH.............................................................................................................10 2.3 LAW ENFORCMENT.............................................................................................................................12 2.4 FIRE STATION........................................................................................................................................12 2.5 WATER SUPPLY....................................................................................................................................14 2.6 SANITARY SEWER – WASTEWATER TREATMENT.......................................................................14 2.7 SOLID WASTE........................................................................................................................................16 2.8 STORMWATER DRAINAGE.................................................................................................................17 2.9 ROADS AND CIRCULATION...............................................................................................................17 2.10 PARKS.....................................................................................................................................................19 2.11 ANIMAL CONTROL..............................................................................................................................21 2.12 LIBRARY................................................................................................................................................21 2.13 DETERMINATIONS FOR THE CITY OF AVENAL.............................................................................21 SECTION 3.............................................................................................................................................................25 3.0 CITY OF CORCORAN.............................................................................................................................25 3.1 LOCATION, ADMINISTRATION, MANAGEMENT, AND OPERATIONS.......................................25 3.2 POPULATION AND GROWTH..............................................................................................................28 3.3 LAW ENFORCMENT..............................................................................................................................30 3.4 FIRE STATION.........................................................................................................................................30 3.5 SANITARY SEWER – WASTEWATER TREATMENT........................................................................34 3.6 SOLID WASTE.........................................................................................................................................35 3.7 STORMWATER DRAINAGE..................................................................................................................36 3.8 ROADS AND CIRCULATION................................................................................................................37 3.9 PARKS......................................................................................................................................................40 3.10 ANIMAL CONTROL...............................................................................................................................41 3.11 LIBRARY..................................................................................................................................................41 3.12 DETERMINATIONS FOR THE CITY OF CORCORAN.......................................................................41 SECTION 4.............................................................................................................................................................45 4.0 CITY OF HANFORD.............................................................................................................................................45 4.1 LOCATION, ADMINISTRATION, MANAGEMENT, AND OPERATIONS............................................45 4.2 POPULATION AND GROWTH..........................................................................................................................48 4.3 LAW ENFORCMENT...........................................................................................................................................50 4.4 FIRE STATION.......................................................................................................................................................50 4.5 WATER SUPPLY / DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM...............................................................................................51 4.6 SANITARY SEWER – WASTEWATER TREATMENT...............................................................................54 4.7 SOLID WASTE.......................................................................................................................................................56 4.8 STORMWATER DRAINAGE..............................................................................................................................57 4.9 ROADS AND CIRCULATION............................................................................................................................57 4.10 PARKS......................................................................................................................................................................61 4.11 ANIMAL CONTROL.............................................................................................................................................62 4.12 LIBRARY.................................................................................................................................................................62 4.13 DETERMINATIONS FOR THE CITY OF HANFORD..................................................................................62 2007 MSR Page i SECTION 5.............................................................................................................................................................66 5.0 CITY OF LEMOORE................................................................................................................................................66 5.1 LOCATION, ADMINISTRATION, MANAGEMENT, AND OPERATIONS........................................................66 5.2 POPULATION AND GROWTH..............................................................................................................................69 5.3 LAW ENFORCMENT..............................................................................................................................................71 5.4 FIRE STATION........................................................................................................................................................71 5.5 WATER SUPPLY / DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM......................................................................................................72 5.6 SANITARY SEWER – WASTEWATER TREATMENT........................................................................................76 5.7 SOLID WASTE.........................................................................................................................................................77 5.8 STORMWATER DRAINAGE..................................................................................................................................78 5.9 ROADS AND CIRCULATION................................................................................................................................78 5.10 ANIMAL CONTROL...............................................................................................................................................83 5.11 LIBRARY..................................................................................................................................................................83 5.12 DETERMINATIONS FOR THE CITY OF LEMOORE..........................................................................................83 SECTION 6.............................................................................................................................................................87 6.0 ARMONA COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT...................................................................................................87 6.1 LOCATION, ADMINISTRATION, MANAGEMENT, AND OPERATIONS.........................................................87 6.2 WATER SUPPLY / DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM.......................................................................................................89 6.3 SANITARY SEWER – WASTEWATER TREATMENT.........................................................................................91 6.4 PUBLIC SERVICES...................................................................................................................................................92 6.5 POLICE AND FIRE PROTECTION..........................................................................................................................92 6.6 SCHOOLS AND PARKS...........................................................................................................................................92 6.7 DETERMINATIONS FOR THE................................................................................................................................93 ARMONA COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT...................................................................................................93 SECTION 7.............................................................................................................................................................96 7.0 HOME GARDEN COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT.......................................................................................96 7.1 LOCATION, ADMINISTRATION, MANAGEMENT, AND OPERATIONS.........................................................96 7.2 WATER SUPPLY / DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM.......................................................................................................98 7.3 SANITARY SEWER – WASTEWATER TREATMENT.........................................................................................99 7.4 PUBLIC SERVICES FEES........................................................................................................................................99 7.5 POLICE AND FIRE PROTECTION........................................................................................................................100 7.6 SCHOOLS AND PARKS.........................................................................................................................................100 7.7 DETERMINATIONS FOR THE..............................................................................................................................100 HOME GARDEN COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT.....................................................................................100 SECTION 8...........................................................................................................................................................104 8.0 KETTLEMAN CITY COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT................................................................................104 8.1 LOCATION, ADMINISTRATION, MANAGEMENT, AND OPERATIONS.......................................................104 8.2 WATER SUPPLY / DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM.....................................................................................................106 8.3 SANITARY SEWER – WASTEWATER TREATMENT.......................................................................................107 8.4 PUBLIC SERVICES.................................................................................................................................................107 8.5 POLICE AND FIRE PROTECTION........................................................................................................................107 8.6 SCHOOLS AND PARKS.........................................................................................................................................108 8.7 DETERMINATIONS FOR THE KETTLEMAN COMMUNITY SERVICE DISTRICT......................................108 SECTION 9...........................................................................................................................................................111 9.0 STRATFORD PUBLIC UTILITY DISTRICT.........................................................................................................111 9.1 LOCATION, ADMINISTRATION, MANAGEMENT, AND OPERATIONS.......................................................111 9.2 WATER SUPPLY / DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM.....................................................................................................113 9.3 SANITARY SEWER – WASTEWATER TREATMENT.......................................................................................114 9.4 PUBLIC SERVICES 114 9.5 FIRE AND POLICE PROTECTION........................................................................................................................115 9.6 SCHOOLS AND PARKS.........................................................................................................................................115 9.7 DETERMINATIONS FOR THE..............................................................................................................................115 STRATFORD PUBLIC UTILITIES DISTRICT......................................................................................................115 SECTION 10.........................................................................................................................................................118 10.0 REFERENCES............................................................................................................................................................118 2007 MSR Page ii TABLES AND FIGURES TABLES TABLE 2.A: CITY OF AVENAL POPULATION AND HOUSING TABLE 2.B: TOTAL INCORPARATED POPULATION AND HOUSING IN KINGS COUNTY TABLE 2.C: TOTAL POPULATION AND HOUSING IN KINGS COUNTY TABLE 2.D: COMPOSITION OF HOUSING STOCK TABLE 2.E: KINGS COUNTY FIRE STATION SERVING THE CITY OF AVENAL TABLE 2.F: PERMITTED AND ACTIVE LANDFILLS IN KINGS COUNTY TABLE 2.G: MONTHLY SOLID WASTE RATES TABLE 2.H: CITY OF AVENAL MAJOR ROADWAYS TABLE 3.A: CITY DEPARTMENTS AND STAFF POSITIONS TABLE 3.B: CITY OF CORCORAN POPULATION AND HOUSING TABLE 3.C: TOTAL INCORPORATED POPULATION AND HOUSING IN KINGS COUNTY TABLE 3.D: TOTAL POPULATION AND HOUSING AND HOUSING IN KINGS COUNTY TABLE 3.E: COMPOSITION OF HOUSING STOCK TABLE 3.F: KINGS COUNTY FIRE STATION SERVING THE CITY OF CORCORAN TABLE 3.G: WATER WELL CAPACITY SUMMARY TABLE 3.H: SEWER AND HOOK-UP FEES TABLE 3.I: PERMITTED AND ACTIVE LANDFILLS IN KINGS COUNTY TABLE 3.J: MONTHLY SOLID WASTE RATE TABLE 3.K: CITY OF CORCORAN MAJOR ROADWAYS TABLE 4.A: DEPARTMENTS AND STAFF POSITION TABLE 4.C: TOTAL INCORPORATED POPULATION AND HOUSING IN KINGS COUNTY TABLE 4.D: TOTAL POPULATION AND HOUSING IN KINGS COUNTY TABLE 4.E: COMPOSITION OF THE HOUSING STOCK TABLE 4.F: CITY OF HANFORD FIRE DEPARTMENTS TABLE 4.G: WATER WELL CAPACITY SUMMARY TABLE 4.H: WATER USE BY CUSTOMER TYPE TABLE 4.I: SEWER AND HOOK-UP FEES TABLE 4.J: PERMITTED AND ACTIVE LANDFILLS IN KINGS COUNTY TABLE 4.K: MONTHLY SOLID WASTE RATES TABLE 4.L: CITY OF HANFORD MAJOR ROADWAYS TABLE 4.M: CITY OF HANFORD GENERAL PLAN PARK STANDARDS TABLE 5.A: CITY DEPARTMENTS AND STAFF POSITIONS TABLE 5.B: CITY OF LEMOORE POPULATION AND HOUSING TABLE 5.D: TOTAL POPULATION AND HOUSING IN KINGS COUNTY TABLE 5.E: COMPOSITION OF HOUSING STOCK TABLE 5.F: LVFD FIRE STATION TABLE 5.G: WATER WELL CAPACITY SUMMARY TABLE 5.H: WATER USE BY CUSTOMER TABLE 5.I: CURRENT AND PROJECTED WATER DEMAND TABLE 5.J: SEWER AND HOOK-UP FEES TABLE 5.K: PERMITTED AND ACTIVE LANDFILLS IN KINGS COUNTY TABLE 5.L: MONTHLY SOLID WASTE RATES TABLE 5.M: CITY OF LEMOORE MAJOR ROADWAYS TABLE 5.N: CITY OF LEMOORE PARK STANDARDS TABLE 6.A: ARMONA CSD WATER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS 2007 MSR Page iii TABLE 7.A: HOME GARDEN CSD WATER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS TABLE 8.A: KETTLEMAN CSD WATER CAPACITY IMPROVMENTS TABLE 9.A: EXISTING WATER USAGE TABLE 9.B: EXISTING WASTEWATER USAGE FIGURES FIGURE 1.1: KINGS COUNTY CITIES & COMMUNITIES MAP FIGURE 2.1: CITY OF AVENAL BOUNARIES AND FACILITIES FIGURE 2.2: FIXED ROUTE TRANSIT SERVICE MAP FIGURE 3.1: TENTATIVE SUBDIVISION MAP FIGURE 3.2: FIXED ROUTE TRANSIT SERVICE SERVICE MAP FIGURE 4.1: CITY OF HANFORD BOUNDARIES AND FACILITIES FIGURE 4.2: FIXED ROUTE TRANSIT SERVICE MAP FIGURE 5.1: CITY OF LEMOORE BOUNDRIES AND FACILITIES FIGURE 5.2: FIXED ROUTE TRANSIT SERVICE MAP FIGURE 6.1: ARMONA BOUNDARIES AND FACILITIES FIGURE 7.1: HOME GARDEN COMMUNITY SERVICE BOUNDARIES FIGURE 8.1: KETTLEMAN COMMUNITY SERVICE DISTRICT FIGURE 9.1: STRADFORD PUBLIC UTILITY DISTRICT 2007 MSR Page iv Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 SECTION 1 1.0 INTRODUCTION TO MUNICIPAL SERVICE REVIEWS A Municipal Service Review (MSR) has been prepared for each City and Community District to assist the Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County (LAFCO) in meeting the requirements of the Cortese/Knox/Hertzberg (CKH) Act, which requires LAFCO to update the spheres of influence for all applicable jurisdictions in the County (Figure 1.1). A sphere of influence study (SOI) is defined by Government Code 56425 as “...a plan for probable physical boundary and service area of a local agency or municipality...” The Act further requires that an MSR be conducted prior to or in conjunction with the update of the SOI. These MSRs have been prepared in accordance with California Government Code sections 56425 and 56430 and in the accordance with the Service Review Guidelines prepared by the State Office of Planning and Research. These MSRs evaluate the public services provided by the following municipal service providers: • City of Avenal • City of Corcoran • City of Hanford • City of Lemoore • Armona Community Service District • Home Garden Community Service District • Kettleman City Community Service District • Stratford Public Utility District In 1997, the State Legislation enacted Assembly Bill (AB) 1484, which established the commission on Local Governance for the 21st Century. The Commission was responsible for assessing governance issues and making appropriate recommendations regarding the CKH Local Government Reorganization Act of 1985. Among other recommendations, the Commission suggested that each LAFCO should have knowledge of the services within its county. This knowledge would assist in decision-making regarding city and district boundaries. The Commission stated that this knowledge should include the current efficiency of providing services, future service needs, and expansion capacity of the service providers. Additionally, “information on public service capacity could be gathered as part of the implementation of a new requirement for periodic service reviews. LAFCOs could conduct such reviews prior to or in conjunction with amendments to spheres of influence. A service review would encompass a comprehensive study of each identifiable public service provided by counties, special districts, and the cities in the region. The review would not focus exclusively on an individual jurisdiction to determine its future boundary or service areas. Rather, it would require LAFCO to look broadly at all agencies within a geographic region that provide a service” (Growth within Bounds, January 2000). Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Figure 1.1 Kings County Cities & Communities 2007 MSR Page 2 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 The State Legislation acknowledged the Commission’s findings and created a legislative tool (as described in section 56430 of the Government Code) to be used to collect information and evaluate service provisions. On September 26, 2000, AB 2838 (Chapter 761, Statues of 2000), authored by Assembly Speaker Robert M. Hertzberg, was signed into law. Section 56430 of the Government Code now requires that a review of the municipal services provided to the particular area be conducted in order to update any sphere of influence in accordance with Section 56425. LAFCOs must prepare a written statement of determination for each agency with respect to each of the following: 1. Infrastructure needs & deficiencies. 2. Growth and population projections for the affected area. 3. Financing constraints and opportunities. 4. Cost avoidance opportunities. 5. Opportunities for rate restructuring. 6. Opportunities for shared facilities. 7. Government structure options, including advantages and disadvantages of consolidation or reorganization of service providers. 8. Evaluation of management efficiencies. 9. Local accountability and governance In conducting MSRs, LAFCOs must comprehensively review all of the agencies that provide the identified service or services within the designated geographic area. In addition, service reviews must be conducted no later than the time that the SOI is established or updated. The CKH Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000 also requires the LAFCO to update the SOIs for all applicable jurisdictions in the County. As listed above, the CKH Act identifies nine factors to be addressed when conducting an MSR. For each factor, information is gathered and analyzed, and written determinations prepared for LAFCOs consideration. The following paragraphs list each factor and provide information about the required analysis. DETERMINATION 1: INFRASTRURE NEEDS AND DEFICIENCIES Purpose: To evaluate the infrastructure needs and deficiencies in terms of supply, capacity, condition of facilities, and service quality. LAFCO is responsible for determining that an agency is reasonably capable of providing needed resources and basic infrastructure to serve the areas within the agencies boundary and in any possible annexation areas. It is important that such findings of infrastructure and resource availability occur when revisions to the City’s SOI occur, or, as in this case, during the mandated MSR. 2007 MSR Page 3 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 This MSR evaluates the present and long-term infrastructure demands and resource availability of the jurisdiction. This is accomplished by evaluating: (1) the resources and services that are available, and (2), the expansion of such resources and services in with increasing demands. DETERMINATION 2: GROWTH AND POPULATION PROJECTIONS FOR THE AFFECTED AREA(S) Purpose: To evaluate services needs based upon existing and anticipated growth patterns and population projections. The efficient provision of municipal services is linked to the ability to plan for the future need. For example, existing and future levels of demand for services must be prepared to plan for the expansion of infrastructure and to be able to determine where the future demand will occur. Growth and population projections data will allow for the verification that there is adequate capacity or supply to serve the existing and future residences and businesses and ensure that projections for future growth and population patterns are integrated into the planning processes. DETERMINATION 3: FINANCING CONSTRAINTS AND OPPORTUNITIES Purpose: To evaluate a jurisdiction’s capability to finance needed improvements and services. LAFCO is responsible for evaluating the ability of the agency to pay for improvements or services associated with growth. The planning can begin at the SOI level by: (1) identifying limitations on maintenance needs associated with future annexations and development, (2) identifying limitations on financing such improvements, and (3) identifying opportunities that exist to construct and maintain those improvements. DETERMINATION 4: COST-AVOIDANCE OPPORTUNITIES Purpose: To identify practices or opportunities that may lend support in eliminating costs. LAFCO is responsible for evaluating cost-avoidance opportunities including but not limited to the following: • Eliminating duplicative services • Reducing high administration-to-operation costs ratio • Replacing outdated or deteriorating infrastructure and equipment • Reducing inventories of underutilized equipment, building, or facilities • Redrawing overlapping or inefficient service boundaries • Replacing inefficient purchasing or budgeting practices • Implementing economies of scale • Increasing profitable outsourcing 2007 MSR Page 4 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 DETERMINATION 5: OPPORTUNITIES FOR RATE RESTRUCTREING Purpose: To identify opportunities to impact rates positively without decreasing service levels. When applicable, the MSR will review agency rates, which are charged for public services, to examine opportunities for rate restructuring without impairing the quality of services. Agency rates will be analyzed for conditions that could affect future rates and variances among rates, fees, taxes, charges, etc., within an agency. DETERMINATION 6: OPPORTUNITIES FOR SHARED FACILITIES Purpose: To identify the opportunities for a jurisdiction to share facilities and resources to develop more efficient services. Public service costs may be reduced and service efficiencies increased if service providers develop strategies for sharing resources. Sharing facilities and excess system capacity decreases duplicative efforts, lower costs, and minimize unnecessary resource consumption. The MSRs will inventory facilities within the study area to determine whether facilities are currently being utilized to capacity and whether efficiencies can be achieved by accommodating the facility needs of adjacent agencies. Options for planning for the future shared facilities and services will be considered. DETERMINATION 7: GOVERNMENT STRUCTRE OPTIONS Purpose: To consider the advantages and disadvantages of various government structures to provide public services. The purpose of considering options for the structure of governance when reviewing a SOI is to identify opportunities for increased efficiency in the provision of services, which lead to savings to both the services providers and consumer. The MSR will provide a tool to study comprehensively existing future public services conditions and to evaluate organizational options for accommodating growth and ensuring that critical services are efficiently and cost effectively provided. DETERMINATION 8: EVALUATION OF MANAGEMENT EFFICIENCIES Purpose: To consider the management structure of the jurisdiction. Management efficiency refers to the effectiveness of an internal organization to provide efficient, high-quality public services. The MSR will evaluate management efficiency by analyzing agency functions, operations, and practices, as well as the agency’s ability to meet current and future service provision constraints. 2007 MSR Page 5 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 DETERMINATION 9: LOCAL ACCOUTABILITY AND GOVERNANCE Purpose: To evaluate the accessibility and levels of public participation associated with the agency’s decision-making and management processes. LAFCO is responsible for evaluating the degree to which the agency fosters local accountability. Local accountability and governance refers to public agency decision-making and operational and management processes that: • Include an accessible and accountable decision-making body and agency staff • Encourages and value public participation • Disclose budgets, programs, and plans • Solicits public input when considering rate changes and work and infrastructure plans • Evaluate outcomes of plans, programs, and operations and disclose results to the public Since existing law requires SOIs to be updated every five (5) years and MSRs must be completed for the preparation of the SOI updates, MSRs should be updated every five (5) years as well. These MSRs are the first to be established by LAFCo. Therefore, the planning horizon for these MSR is anticipated to cover the next five (5) years until 2012 when the next SOI update will accur. Pursuant to this requirement, LAFCO has proceeded in preparing the MSRs by reviewing public agencies that provide municipal urban type services to residents within the incorporated and unincorporated areas of the County. Water and wastewater services are of critical interest in determining whether Cities and/or communities can accommodate the anticipated population growth expected within this region of the San Joaquin Valley. In addition, this MSR document also addresses the remaining municipal services that are provided by the cities, and community special districts, in Kings County. 2007 MSR Page 6 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 SECTION 2 2.0 CITY OF AVENAL The City of Avenal provides basic municipal type service directly or through contracts with Kings County. The city charges fees for water refuse services, sewer, and street lighting. They also charge for sewer connections. The following municipal services are discussed within this MSR: • Water Supply • Sanitary Sewer • Storm Drainage • Solid Waste • Park Maintenance • Street Maintenance • Law Enforcement and Fire Protection • Lighting 2.1 LOCATION, ADMINISTRATION, MANAGEMENT, AND OPERATIONS The City of Avenal (Avenal) is located halfway between Los Angeles and Sacramento on Interstate 5. Avenal comprises approximately 15,232 acres (23.8 square miles) at an elevation of 1,200 feet above sea level (amsl). Avenal is a rural city with a small town atmosphere. The City limits drape across the Kettleman Hills, with the urbanized portion of the City situated on the Kettleman Plain, along State Highway 33, and the industrial core located along Interstate 5. Avenal’s history dates back to the 1800’s, as early American settlers arrived in the Kettleman Hills during the 1850’s. In 1929, Standard Oil surveyed the current site of Avenal in which to build a town. By the 1940’s Avenal had grown to become the second largest town in Kings County with a population of 3,000 (mostly oil workers). By the 1940’s oil and gas production declined and the Avenal economy dwindled. With the growth of the agriculture industry in the San Joaquin Valley and the completion of the California Aqueduct and Interstate 5, new business growth opportunities emerged in Avenal. Incorporated in 1979, Avenal was selected for a state prison site in 1987(Figure 2.1: City of Avenal Boundaries and Facilities). 2007 MSR Page 7 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 The City of Avenal is responsible for water supply, sanitary sewer, Storm drainage, solid waste, street lighting and park maintenance. There is a five-member City Council, five-member Planning Commission, and City Manager with office staff. Other full-time positions include: Public Works and Building Director, Community Development Director, and Park Maintenance Staff. Avenal contracts many “key” positions and service providers to fulfill its needs. Contract positions include: City Engineer, Street Maintenance Services, Law Enforcement and Fire Protection Services. Since incorporation, the City has land use authority within its boundaries and maintains strict adherence to its General Plan Policies. The Avenal City Council holds public meetings regularly on the first Thursday of the month. Pursuant to a City resolution, agendas are posted at City Hall, and the Recreation Center. In addition, any standing committees are posted in the same manner. All meetings are held pursuant to the Brown Act and allow public comment. All Avenal Council meetings are held in the Avenal Recreation Center, and the facility provides adequate space to accommodate typical attendance. Avenal does not have a website or a news letter, however, a local newspaper is distributed to local residences once a week, which frequently contains articles regarding City business and issues of concern to the community. In the past, Avenal has utilized advisory committees when decisions regarding the City of Avenal General Plan Policies were developed. Avenal prepares an annual budget, which is based on estimated actual expenditures. The budget process begins with the City staff and the City Manager preparing a draft budget, which is submitted to the City Council in early May. The City council reviews the proposed budget prior to public budget hearings that are held in either May or early June. The final budget is adopted by the City Council in late June. Currently, approximately 2% of the City’s land area is designated for commercial uses. This is considered much less compared to most cities and contributes to the City’s difficulties in generating sufficient revenue from taxable sales. 2007 MSR Page 8 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Figure 2.1: City of Avenal Boundaries and Facilities (Pre – October 2007) 2007 MSR Page 9 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 2.2 POPULATION AND GROWTH Population The California Department of Finance estimates the City’s 2006 population to be 16,349. The City was incorporated on September 18th 1979. Over the twenty-seven years, the City of Avenal’s population has increased at a slow rate. Tables 2.A through 2.C show Avenal’s recent population and housing growth trends, along with the County as a whole. Table 2.A: City of Avenal Population and Housing (2000, 2006, 2007) Year Population Annual Percent Housing Annual Percent Change Change 2000 14,674 ----- 2,061 ---- 2006 16,292 1.1% 2,251 1.3% 2007 16,737 0.2% 2,251 1.2% Source: State of California, Department of Finance, E-5 City/County Population and Housing Estimates, January 1, 2000, 2006, 2007 with 2000 DRU Benchmark. Sacramento, California. Table 2.B: Total Incorporated¹ Population and Housing in Kings County (2000, 2006, 2007) Year Population Annual Percent Housing Annual Percent Change Change 2000 96,916 ----- 26,621 ---- 2006 111,655 1.1% 30,344 1.1% 2007 116,622 1.0% 31,614 1.0% Source: State of California, Department of Finance, E-5 City/County Population and Housing Estimates, January 1, 2000, 2006, 2007 with 2000 DRU Benchmark. Sacramento, California. Table 2.C: Total Population and Housing in Kings County (2000, 2006, 2007) Year Population Annual Percent Housing Annual Percent Change Change 2000 129,461 ----- 36,563 ---- 2006 148,073 1.1% 40,596 1.1% 2007 151,381 1.0% 41,524 1.0% Source: State of California, Department of Finance, E-5 City/County Population and Housing Estimates, January 1, 2000, 2006, 2007 with 2000 DRU Benchmark. Sacramento, California. ¹ Includes City of Avenal, City of Corcoran, City of Hanford, and City of Lemoore 2007 MSR Page 10 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Housing Inventory As shown in Table 2.D, the California Department of Finance estimates that there were 2,251 of dwelling units (DU) within the City in 2006. Of these DU’s, over 61 percent are detached single-family homes, 4.2 percent are mobile homes, and 13.6 percent are located in structures of 5 or more units. Table 2.D also illustrates that the composition of Avenal’s- housing stock is much different than what exists currently within the County. Table 2.D: Composition of the Housing Stock (2006) City of Avenal Kings County Housing Type Number of Units Percentage Number of Units Percentage Single-family, detached 1,395 61.9 2,8697 70.69 Single-family, attached 147 6.5 2,425 5.97 2 to 4 – unit structure 309 13.8 2,815 6.93 5 or more unit structure 305 13.6 4,439 10.93 Mobile home 95 4.2 2,220 5.47 TOTAL 2,251 100 40,596 100 Source: State of California, Department of Finance, E-5 City/County Population and Housing Estimates, January 1, 2000, 2006, 2007 with 2000 DRU Benchmark. Sacramento, California. Average Household Size The 2000 Census reports that there were 1,928 households in the City, with an average household size of 4.14. Of those 1,928 households, it is estimated that 1,641 or 85.1 percent were family households, while 218 households (11.3 percent) were individuals living alone. The balances of the City’s households were comprised of non-family households with one or more occupants. Avenal’s existing population per household (4.14) as identified in the 2000 Census is high when compared to: • City of Hanford (2.93) • City of Corcoran (3.44) • City of Lemoore (3.06) Population Projections According to the State of California Employment Development Department (EDD)¹ , Kings County population is projected to reach 198,700 by the year 2020 (Department of Finance), a gain of more of 53 percent of current figures. It is anticipated that the majority of population growth will be due to non-institutional population growth. Population growth is anticipated in the fringe areas of Hanford and within Lemoore’s present boundaries on undeveloped sites. The Kings County Association of Governments in conjunction with local jurisdictions (Avenal, ¹ Interim County Population Projections, State Department of Finance, June 2001 2007 MSR Page 11 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Corcoran, Lemoore, and Kings County) has developed a Regional Housing Needs Allocation Plan that extends through the year 2008. The plan directs new housing to where adequate infrastructure and public services can accommodate project growth. 2.3 LAW ENFORCMENT The City of Avenal contracts with the Kings County Sheriffs Office, (located at 1444 W. Lacey, Boulevard Hanford California 93230) for law enforcement services. Most crimes in the City are property-oriented (i.e. theft and vandalism). Services from the County Sheriffs Department are provided from the Avenal Sub-station. The sub-station is one of six Sub-stations located throughout Kings County. This station is staffed by members of the Kings County Sheriff’s Office in fulfilling a contract with the City of Avenal. The contract runs on one year cycles to accommodate salary adjustments and operations costs. The sub-station provides police services to the City with 8 Deputies, who patrol a 22 square mile area 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The sub-station consist of a sub-station commander, office assistant, 2 sergeants, and 8 deputies, 13 take home vehicles and 1 unmarked vehicle. The Kings County Sheriff Commander serves as the City of Avenal Police Chief. The Sheriff Sub- Station provides mutual aid to surrounding governmental agencies. In 2006, the City experienced a total of 3,554 service calls. In that time the average response time within the City was as follows: • Priority 1 calls: 3 minutes • Priority 2 calls: 8 minutes • Priority 3 calls: 8-12 minutes Currently, there are no plans for capital improvement projects for a new sub-station; all proposed projects are evaluated on an on-going basis by the Sheriff’s office. Indicators of service levels and the need for new personnel and facilities is conducted by the Sheriff’s Department through an analysis of the number of service calls, response times, and population growth. In addition, the Sheriff’s Department reviews proposed development projects and provides the approving agency information regarding impacts of the new development upon law enforcement services. The Department uses the number of dwelling units and a generation factor of 3-4 person per household to project population increase. Avenal has a Justice Court and one court holding cell (used only when court is in session). Court is in session every Friday. All arrested persons are transported to Kings County Jail in Hanford (approximately 45 minuets away) 2.4 FIRE STATION The City of Avenal has been contracting fire protection services from the Kings County Fire Department (KCFD). Avenal is served from Station 12, located on Fresno Street within the City. 2007 MSR Page 12 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Nine volunteer firefighters serve on call at this station. The county also has a two-man, four person volunteer station in Kettleman City, fifteen miles east of Avenal that serves as the nearest secondary response unit. The Station is listed below in Table 2.E. Table 2.E: Kings County Fire Station Serving the City of Avenal Station Equipment Personnel Station 12 2 Engines (type 2) 2-Captians 516 Fresno St. 2 Patrol Vehicles (type 3) 2-Engineers Avenal, CA 9-Volunteers Station 9 2 Engines (type 2) 2-Captians 85 Brown St. 1 Patrol Vehicles (type 3) 2-Engineers Kettleman City, CA 1 Mack Water Tender 4-Volunteers 1 Chevy Squad Car In addition, the County Fire Department coordinates closely with the California Department of Forestry (CDF) and the Avenal State prison Fire Department. The County and CDF have a “dual responsibility” area west of State Highway 33 which both will respond to calls. The Avenal State prison maintains its own fire station on the prison site. It should also be noted that the County has a mutual aid agreement with the prison for fire services. Both the Kings County Fire Department and the Prison Fire Department work closely with one another, and often the Prison’s fire department will support Kings County on most fire calls. It should be noted that the prisons fire department cannot be relied upon to respond to all emergencies. For security reasons, it is not common for the County to assist with prison fire or emergencies. The City is within an area where grass and brush fires have the potential to occur, typically in an area where onsite water is not available. In these cases, the Department uses a “back-burn” technique to combat most grass blazes, and; in worst cases water tankers will be brought to the site to assist with efforts. Currently, the Kings County Fire Department has stated that water pressure and quantity within the City of Avenal has been sufficient in meeting the needs during fires. Station 12 responded to 491 calls within the City of Avenal in 2006. The Station also reponds to calls outside the City limits and together the total calls for 2006 were 712. Demographics data meets the criteria for urban response from the Fire Department. The average breakdown of calls for services is as follows: • Structures 35 (5%) • Vehicle 31 (4%) • Medical Aid (not traffic) 391 (57%) • Traffic Accidents 115 (17%) • Grass Fires 39 (5.8%) • Other 64 (11.2%) 2007 MSR Page 13 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Since the construction of the State prison in 1987, the Kings County Fire Department has documented an increase in medical aid and traffic accidents. Although the City’s population has not increased as anticipated, the number of vehicle trips to and from Avenal did, travelers include; prison employees and prison visitors, and commuters utilizing I-5. The majority of medical aid and traffic accidents calls were dispatched to Interstate 5 and accounted for 74 percent of all calls. 2.5 WATER SUPPLY The City of Avenal receives 3,500 acre-feet of water annually from the Central Valley Project (CVP). The CVP was authorized by the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1937, the large scale CVP encompasses 20 reservoirs with a combined storage capacity of 11 million acre-feet, eight power plants, two pumping-generating plants and over 500 miles of major canals and aqueducts. The project is operated by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. The current capacity of the Water Treatment Plant is 5.4 mgd and the current demand is 3 to 3.5 mgd. In 2006, Avenal used 1.097 mgd, which includes water usage by the prison. Using projected population of 16,039 in the year 2025 and an average water demand of 154 gpcd, the annual water usage for the City would be 2,767 acre-feet. With an average prison population of 7,800 and a water demand of 150 gpcd, the annul water usage for the prison is projected to be approximately 1,126 acre-feet. The 2025 projected total annual water demand is 3,893 acre-feet. Residences are charged $15.70 per month plus $1.65 per 100 cubic feet over 700 cubic feet. Water connection charges are $27.00 per fixture units. Table 2.F (a) Water and Hook-Up Fees Water Service $15.70 per residence Water Connection Fee $27.00 per fixture unit Additional Hook-Up Fee $8.00 Avenal recently annexed territory along the north to create a new collection point for water from the California Aqueduct and construction of their water treatment facility. 2.6 SANITARY SEWER – WASTEWATER TREATMENT Collection System The city of Avenal operates a sanitary sewer and wastewater treatment facility that is located in the southeast portion of the City. The City provides services to urbanized areas and the Avenal State Prison. The City’s sewage collection system includes two major trunk lines in Laneva Boulevard (8 and 10 inches in diameter), that extend from the urban area to the sewage treatment plant. Within the urban are, the collection system generally consists of 6-inch diameter lines. An 18-inch diameter line connects the State Prison directly to the treatment facility. 2007 MSR Page 14 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 The City’s collection system drains by gravity to the treatment plant. The system operates without pump stations and there are no force-main lines. Treatment Plant The existing Avenal treatment plant was constructed in 1987, same year as the State Prison, located west of the treatment plant. Avenal’s former treatment plant was located one mile north of the existing plant. Sewer and additional hook-up fees are listed in Table 2.F (b). Table 2.F (b) Sewer and Hook-Up Fees Sanitary Sewer Service $12.15 per residence Sewer Connection Fee $27.00 per fixture unit Additional Hook-Up Fee $8.00 Capacity The existing plant was designed with a hydraulic capacity of approximately 1.8 million gallons per day (mgd). Currently, the plant is permitted for a discharge flow of 1.63 mgd by the California Regional Water Quality Control Board (CRWQCB). Through an agreement with the City of Avenal, the State Prison was allocated approximately one-half of the treatment plant’s design capacity. The prison’s allocation includes flows of nearly 0.8 mgd of domestic wastewater and approximately 0.1 mgd of industrial wastewater. The City had secured the remaining one-half of the plants capacity for future growth. Facilities Currently, the treatment plant is operated by the City and consists of a headwork’s grinder, an oxidation ditch, two clarifiers, six sludge-drying beds, and pumps and piping to transfer treated wastewater to the effluent storage reservoir. Treated effluent from the plant is pumped across Highway 33 to two approximately 300 acre- foot storage ponds connected in series. The ponds are located immediately south of the prison. The effluent is applied to agricultural lands on the west side of Highway 33. Available Capacity Based on 2004 flows at the plant, 0.7 mgd of the plant’s capacity is currently unused. Approximately 0.35 mgd of this capacity is allocated to the prison, while the remaining 0.35 mgd of unused capacity is reserved for the City. Based on 2004 reports, average sewage generation rate of 34.4 gpcd, the treatment plant’s reserve capacity (for the City) is sufficient to accommodate approximately 11,995 additional people or 3,528 new single-family residential units (at an occupancy rate of 3.4 persons per unit). It has been projected with the annual 2007 MSR Page 15 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 population growth rate, the City’s portion of the treatment plant’s reserve capacity will not reach capacity until beyond the year 2025 under average flow conditions. 2.7 SOLID WASTE The City of Avenal has a landfill site within the City (the property is owned by the City). The 173-acre, class III (municipal waste) site is in the eastern portion of Avenal along Hydril Road and Skyline Boulevard. The site is operated by Madera Disposal Systems, Inc., a subsidiary of Waste Connections. Solid waste is collected within the City and transported by Mid Valley Disposal to the Avenal Landfill. Avenal has initiated several waste reductions and recycling programs, including passing an ordinance requiring the mandatory use of the City’s recycling program for all businesses and residential units, and starting landfill recycling and salvage operations. Avenal is also successfully documenting its progress in meeting diversion goals and improving or expanding new diversion programs. Currently, the City diverts 60 percent of its waste. The Avenal landfill is inspected on a monthly basis. The permitted capacity is 6.6 million cubic yards and remaining capacity is 8.2 million cubic yards. The permitted throughput is 475 tons/day and the estimated closure date of the landfill is 2029. Residential customers pay a flat rate for services, and commercial rates are based on size of pickups per week. Table 2.F lists all permitted and active landfills in Kings County. Table 2.G compares Avenal Landfill solid waste rates with those of nearby jurisdictions within Kings County. Table 2.G Permitted and Active Landfills in Kings County Avenal Regional Landfill Chemical Waste Management Inc, Unit B16 Kettleman Hills - B18 Nonhaz Codisposal Table 2.H Monthly Solid Waste Rates City of Avenal City of Corcoran City of Hanford City of Lemoore $15.00 64-gallon 60- gallon 60- gallon container container container Residential $25.00 $25.00 $23.00 96-gallon 90- gallon 90- gallon container container container $31.00 $20.00 $18.00 $65.20 per week 1-cubic yard 1-cubic yard 1-cubic yard Commercial for a 2- cubic $46.00 $15.50 $15.50 2-cubic yard 2-cubic yard and yard container 1.5-cubic yard $23.50 $22.50 Industrial $68.30 3-cubic yard 3-cubic yard 2-cubic yard $34.25 $31.25 2007 MSR Page 16 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 $88.30 3-cubic yard $131.00 2.8 STORMWATER DRAINAGE Flood zone mapping prepared by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) indicates that there are some areas in and around Avenal that are in the 100 year flood zone. During major storm events many area drainages or arroyos (Kettleman Hills) upstream from Avenal are prone to flash flooding. Dams that have the potential of creating flood inundation within the County include; Terminus Dam, Success Lake Dam, and Pine Flat Dam (located in the Sierra Nevadas east of the valley floor on the Kaweah, Tule, and Kings River). Additional improvements made to other flood control facilities in the Kings County area, has significantly reduced local natural flood hazards. According to the Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) inundation maps for Kings County show that a breech by any of the dams listed above will not affect the City of Avenal. Through the City’s General Plan, the City Council has adopted runoff/discharge policies that have strict controls to meet the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) for development project. Per the City of Avenal General Plan Update (May 2005), the existing storm drainage infrastructure in Avenal is limited to a collection line on Skyline Boulevard (Highway 269) that is operated and maintained by the State, and a City collection line on San Joaquin between First Street and Highway 33. Both of these collection lines discharge by gravity to open fields on the west side of Highway 33. In the early 1990’s the City completed a street improvement program in which curb and gutter was installed on all streets in the developed portion of the community. Runoff from these improved areas drains as surface flow in the southwesterly direction toward Highway 33. 2.9 ROADS AND CIRCULATION Direct accesses to the City are provided by I-5, SR 269, and SR 33. The Avenal Cutoff Road also provides much of the access to and from the Hanford/Lemoore area. Arterials in Avenal serve as the primary network for traffic flow. They typically have no less than a 100-foot right- of-way and connected areas of major traffic generation within the urban areas, county roads, and state highways. Collector streets in Avenal typically have a right-of-way of 60 to 80 feet. They are intended to connect arterials with local streets and activity centers. Local streets provide direct access to abutting properties and for localized traffic movements within residential, commercial, and industrial areas. 2007 MSR Page 17 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Table 2.I City of Avenal “Major” Roadways Interstate 5 Major north-south corridor that has statewide significance that links the Central Valley to Northern and Southern California. State Route 33 A north-south oriented street that operates as a two lane highway. State Route 269 An east-west oriented street generally operates as a two lane highway. Third Avenue A north-south collector street that extends from State Route 33 to north of Alpine Street. From curb to curb, Third Avenue ranges between 40 to 50 feet. Fifth Avenue A north-south collector street that extends from State Route 33 north of Alpine Street. From curb to curb, Fifth Avenue is 40 feet wide. Seventh Avenue A north-south collector street that extends from State Route 33 to Mariposa Street. From curb to curb, Fifth Avenue is 52 feet wide. Kings Street An east-west collector street that extends from State Route 33 to Seventh Avenue. From curb to curb, Fifth Avenue is 60 feet wide. San Joaquin Street A two-lane east-west roadway that intersects with State Route 269 south of Hydril Road. Transit Services Avenal’s transit needs are served by the Kings Area Rural Transit (KART), which is under the management of the Kings County Public Works Department. KART serves the transit needs throughout Kings County as well as residences in adjacent counties. The fixed route provides transit service between the cities of Avenal and Hanford, which is the KART hub for the County. As shown on Figure 2.2, the route is triangular and serves San Joaquin Street, State Route 33, and State Route 269 (Skyline Boulevard). In Avenal, fixed route transit service currently operates Monday through Saturday. KART does not operate on Sundays or holidays. Departures from Avenal to Hanford occur at 7:45 am, 12:45 pm, 2:00 pm, 5:15 pm; arrivals from Hanford occur at 7:45 am, 12:35 pm, and 5:15 pm. The fixed route service costs $4.00 for adults and $2.00 for youths (ages 7-12). Trips within the City are $1.50; monthly passes for the Avenal-Hanford Route may be purchased for $60.00. KART also provides Dial-A-Ride services for residents of Avenal traveling more than ½ mile from an existing bus route or for those riders certified by KART as disabled. Dial-A-Ride (door to door) service is available in Avenal on Monday through Friday between 11:00 am and 1:30 pm. All rides from home must be scheduled one day in advance. Existing Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities The Kings County Association of Governments (KCAG) adopted the Kings County Regional Bike Plan in July 1998. The adopted plan provides for connections between major urban and 2007 MSR Page 18 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 recreational facilities within Avenal. In addition to the provision of bikeway routes, KART provides bike racks on transit vehicles to promote the use of transit and bicycling within urban areas. 2.10 PARKS The City of Avenal has two “no fee” designated park sites totaling approximately 155 acres. Floyd Rice Park (Neighborhood Park) is a 4.79 acre site located at the intersection of Park Avenue and Monterey Street. According to the Neighborhood Parks and Recreation Service, a four acre park would be categorized as a neighborhood park, which has a service area of approximately one-quarter to one-half mile radius. Facilities at Floyd Rice Park include; passive recreation area, playground equipment, barbecues, 20 picnic tables, restrooms, and a community building with kitchen facilities. Avenal’s second park is a soccer and softball complex located on the south end of town (off SR 33, approximately 150 acres). In addition to maintaining and operating park facilities, the City’s Parks and Recreation Department supervises and coordinates a wide variety of recreational programs and activities. In addition to the City-owned parks and recreation facilities, Avenal residents have access to grounds and playing fields at Reef Sunset Unified School District (RSUSD) schools. The City and RSUSD have established a cooperative agreement encouraging maximum use of public properties and facilities by the community. It should also be noted that the City of Avenal is in close proximity to Kettleman Hills where there are access to hiking and picnic areas for public use. 2007 MSR Page 19 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Figure 2.2 Fixed Route Transit Service Map 2007 MSR Page 20 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 2.11 ANIMAL CONTROL The City runs an animal control and animal shelter services located at 919 Skyline Boulevard. The City promotes the humane care of animals through education and a humane proactive animal control program. The shelter is under the control of the Public Works Department. 2.12 LIBRARY The Kings County Library serves the local need of the City of Avenal. The Avenal Branch started in a cupboard at the home of Mrs. Lillian Evans in 1923. The cupboard is now in the home of Mrs. Evans' daughter, Mrs. Boyd Morris, but the library now fills an entire building. When Avenal became a township, the "library" was moved to a store and post office building on Skyline Blvd. Next it was moved to an upstairs building on "Main Street" (Kings St.) next to Dr. M.O. Wilen's then dentist office. The next time the library moved it was across the alley to another old post office building on Fresno Street (1953). It was there for 28 years. On March 23, 1981, it was moved to the new government building complex at 501 Kings Street. (Extracted from an article in the Coalinga Courier August 28, 1985 by Sharon Miller) The Avenal Branch Library was expanded in the summer of 1989. 2.13 DETERMINATIONS FOR THE CITY OF AVENAL The Service Review guidelines prepared by the State Office of Planning and Research recommend that issues relevant to the jurisdiction be address through written determinations called for in the Act. Based on the above information, following are the written determinations for the City. A. Infrastructure Needs and Deficiencies Purpose: To evaluate the infrastructure needs and deficiencies in terms of supply, capacity, condition of facilities, and service quality. 1. The City of Avenal decision makers will rely on its 2005 General Plan to provide comprehensive planning guidelines and facility needs through 2025. 2. The City of Avenal existing storm drainage infrastructure is limited to two collection lines on two public roads within the City. These drains have alleviated any flooding problems resulting from storms. In the early 1990’s the City completed a street improvement program in which curb and gutters were installed on all streets in the developed portions of the community. 3. Capital needs for the County Sheriff’s Department are evaluated on an on-going basis. Indicators of service standards and the need for new personnel and facilities are provided by analysis of the number of service calls, response time, and population growth. 2007 MSR Page 21 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 4. The Kings County Fire Department (Avenal sub-station) has available resources at Station No. 12 and supplemented by the Avenal State Prison, KCFD Station No. 9in Kettleman City, and the California Department of Forestry (CDF). 5. Recently the State passed a measure that will allow for the expansion of the Avenal State Prison, plans call for the expansion of the water treatment facility. 6. Currently, the City does not have an active Website for public accessibility, thereby restricting the level of public comments and community participation. B. Growth and Population Purpose: To evaluate services needs based upon existing and anticipated growth patterns and population projections. 1. The Kings County Association of Governments in conjunction with local jurisdictions (Avenal, Corcoran, Hanford, Lemoore, and Kings County) has developed a Regional Housing Needs Allocation Plan that extends through the year 2008. The plan directs new housing to where adequate infrastructure and public services can accommodate project growth. 2. The California Department of Finance has projected the City’s population growth to be very low (0.9%). C. Financing Constraints and Opportunities Purpose: To evaluate a jurisdiction’s capability to finance needed improvements and services. 1. The City of Avenal prepares a comprehensive annual budget that clearly describes the services provided to the residents and the funds expended for those services. 2. The City of Avenal has incorporated an Economic Development Element within its General Plan. 3. 17% of the land area is designated for commercial/industrial uses. This will be sufficient in generating revenue from taxable sales. This is a positive for the City in financing opportunities. 4. The City is not a member of the Public Agency Risk Sharing Authority of California and does not benefit from the insurance coverage’s offered at a lower rates. D. Opportunities for Rate Restructuring Purpose: To identify opportunities to impact rates positively without decreasing service levels. 1. The City of Avenal originally negotiated the service agreements for law enforcement, fire protection, and transit services. The City does have limited opportunity for rate restructuring in regards to water, sewer, and solid waste disposal. 2007 MSR Page 22 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 E. Opportunities for Shared Facilities Purpose: To identify the opportunities for a jurisdiction to share facilities and resources to develop more efficient services. 1. The City of Avenal does share resources with the Avenal State Prison Facility, resources include, cost-sharing on capital improvements to the waste water treatment plant, the prison provides secondary fire protection support to the City. 2. Potential opportunities or partnering may exist with the California Department of Forestry (CDF), as well as other various State agencies (i.e. CalTrans, Department of Fish and game, etc.). F. Government Structure Options Purpose: To consider the advantages and disadvantages of various government structures to provide public services. 1. It is reasonable to conclude that the public services can continue to be provided by the City of Avenal under existing government structure. G. Evaluation of Management Efficiencies Purpose: To consider the management structure of the jurisdiction. 1. The City’s budget and accounting practices are audited annually by a certified public accountant. 2. The City is required to submit a quarterly investment report to the City Council for review. 3. The City of Avenal coordinates very closely with law enforcement and fire protection; although, there would be some benefit incorporating various departments under one “government center” to facilitate with administrative tasks and coordination. 4. Operations of the Sheriff’s and Fire departments are routinely evaluated by each department and station’s command staff. H. Local Accountability and Governance Purpose: To evaluate the accessibility and levels of public participation associated with the agency’s decision-making and management processes. 1. The City of Avenal makes reasonable efforts to maintain a public dialogue within the City Council meeting forum. In particular, the City has conducted citizen advisory committees and implemented mailings to solicit public comment input when possible. 2. Currently, the City does not have an active Website for public accessibility, thereby restricting the level of public comments and community participation. 3. The City complies with the Brown Act provisions for conduct of meetings, provides agendas for public review in advance to hearings. 2007 MSR Page 23 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 4. Prior to budget approval, public meetings area conducted to include citizen comments. 2007 MSR Page 24 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 SECTION 3 3.0 CITY OF CORCORAN The City of Corcoran provides basic municipal type service directly or through contracts with Kings County. The city charges fees for water, sewer, refuse service and street lighting. They also charge for sewer and water connections. The following municipal services are discussed within this MSR: • Water Supply • Sanitary Sewer • Storm Drainage • Solid Waste • Park Maintenance • Street Maintenance • Law Enforcement and Fire Protection • Lighting 3.1 LOCATION, ADMINISTRATION, MANAGEMENT, AND OPERATIONS The City of Corcoran (Corcoran) is located along State Route 43 in Eastern Kings County. State Route 43 travels through the northwest portion of Corcoran in a general north-south direction. State Route 99 is approximately 13 miles to the east of town and is the main transportation corridor through the Central Valley. The City is comprised of approximately 4,736 acres (7.4 square miles) at an elevation of about 200 feet above sea level (amsl). Corcoran is a rural city with a small town atmosphere (Figure 3.1). The City was incorporated in 1914, and is located 17 miles south of Hanford (the County Seat), and 50 miles south of Fresno. The 2007 population estimates is 25,417, according to the California Department of Finance (DOF). The combined population of the Corcoran State Prison and Substance Abuse Treatment Facility was estimated to be approximately 12,156 - 129004. The City of Corcoran is responsible for water supply, sanitary sewer, storm water, solid waste, street lighting and park maintenance. 2007 MSR Page 25 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Figure 3.1: City of Corcoran Boundaries and Facilities (Pre-October 2007) 2007 MSR Page 26 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 There is a five-member City Council, five-member Planning Commission, and City Manager, City Clerk, Deputy City Clerk with office staff, other full-time positions includes: Public Works and Building Director, Community Development Director, and Park Maintenance Staff. The City contracts refuse collection service to fulfill its needs, additional contract positions include: Fire Protection and City Engineering services. Table 3.A shows City department and staff positions. Since incorporation, the City has land use authority within its boundaries and maintains strict adherence to its General Plan Policies. Table 3.A City Departments and Staff Positions City Managers Department City Manager City Clerk Deputy City Clerk Administrative Staff Finance Department Finance Director/Deputy City Manager Accounting Technician Account Clerk Account Clerk Community Development Department Community Development Director Planning Technician/Webmaster Community Development Specialist Building Official Code Enforcement Code Enforcement Officer/Residential Building Inspector Corcoran Police Department Chief of Police Commander Dispatch Supervisor Records Supervisor Administrative Aide Public Works Department Public Works Director Streets and Grounds Superintendent Administrative Secretary The City Council acts as the Governing body of the City, with all regulatory and corporate powers of a municipal corporation provided under California State law. The five members of the Council are elected to serve a four year staggered term. Elections take place every two years. The Council elects a Mayor every two years, while the Mayor position is considered a “ceremonial” seat, the Mayor has the same legal authority as the Council Members. The Corcoran City Council meets in Council Chambers on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month at 7:00 P.M. All meetings are open to the public and persons wishing to speak during the hearing my submit an agenda item one week in advance or may speak during the “public discussion” portion of the meeting. Council members can be reached through the City’s Managers Office. 2007 MSR Page 27 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 3.2 POPULATION AND GROWTH Population The California Department of Finance estimates the City’s 2006 population to be 22,561. The City was incorporated on August 14, 1914. Over the last seven years, the City of Corcoran’s population has increased at a slow rate. Tables 3.B through 3.D show the City’s recent population and housing growth trends and the County as a whole. Table 3.B: City of Corcoran Population and Housing (2000, 2006, 2007) Year Population Annual Percent Housing Annual Percent Change Change 2000 20,845 ----- 3,016 ---- 2006 23,378 1.1% 3,367 1.1% 2007 25,417 1.0% 3,849 1.1% Source: State of California, Department of Finance, E-5 City/County Population and Housing Estimates, January 1, 2000, 2006, 2007 with 2000 DRU Benchmark. Sacramento, California. Table 3.C: Total Incorporated¹ Population and Housing in Kings County (2000, 2006, 2007) Year Population Annual Percent Housing Annual Percent Change Change 2000 96,916 ----- 26,621 ---- 2006 111,655 1.1% 30,344 1.1% 2007 116,622 1.0% 31,614 1.0% Source: State of California, Department of Finance, E-5 City/County Population and Housing Estimates, January 1, 2000, 2006, 2007 with 2000 DRU Benchmark. Sacramento, California. Table 3.D: Total Population and Housing in Kings County (2000, 2006, 2007) Year Population Annual Percent Housing Annual Percent Change Change 2000 129,461 ----- 36,563 ---- 2006 148,073 1.1% 40,596 1.1% 2007 151,381 1.0% 41,524 1.0% Source: State of California, Department of Finance, E-5 City/County Population and Housing Estimates, January 1, 2000, 2006, 2007 with 2000 DRU Benchmark. Sacramento, California. Housing Inventory As shown in Table 3.E, the California Department of Finance estimates that there were 2,405 of dwelling units (DU) within the City in 2006. Of these DU’s, over 71 percent are detached single-family homes, 3.7 percent are mobile homes, and 9.2 percent are located in structures of 5 ¹ City of Avenal, City of Corcoran, City of Hanford, and City of Lemoore 2007 MSR Page 28 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 or more units. Table 3.E also illustrates the composition of the housing stock is much different than what exists currently within the County. Table 3.E: Composition of the Housing Stock (2006) City of Corcoran K ings County Housing Type Number of Units Percentage Number of Units Percentage Single-family, detached 2,405 71.4 28,697 70.69 Single-family, attached 180 5.3 2,425 5.97 2 to 4 – unit structure 348 10.4 2,815 6.93 5 or more unit structure 308 9.2 4,439 10.93 Mobile home 126 3.7 2,220 5.47 TOTAL 3,367 100 159,971 100 Source: State of California, Department of Finance, E-5 City/County Population and Housing Estimates, January 1, 2000, 2006, 2007 with 2000 DRU Benchmark. Sacramento, California. Average Household Size The 2000 Census reports that there were 3,452 households in the City, with an average household size of 3.14. Of those 3,452 households, it is estimated that 2,793 or 80.9 percent were family households, while 536 households (19.1 percent) were individuals living alone. The balances of the City’s households were comprised of non-family households with one or more occupant. The City’s existing population per household as identified in the 2000 Census (3.44) is high when compared to: • City of Hanford (2.93) • City of Avenal (4.14) • City of Lemoore (3.06) Population Projections According to the State of California Employment Development Department (EDD)¹ , Kings County population is projected to reach 198,700 by the year 2020, a gain of more of 53 percent of current figures. It is anticipated that the majority of population growth will be due to non- institutional population growth. Population growth is anticipated in the fringe areas of Hanford and within Lemoore’s present boundaries on undeveloped sites. The Kings County Association of Governments in conjunction with local jurisdictions (Avenal, Corcoran, Hanford, Lemoore, and Kings County) has developed a Regional Housing Needs Allocation Plan that extends through the year 2008. The plan directs new housing to where adequate infrastructure and public services can accommodate project growth. ¹ Interim County Population Projections, State Department of Finance, June 2001 2007 MSR Page 29 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 3.3 LAW ENFORCMENT The City of Corcoran Police Department (located at 1031 Chittenden Avenue) consists of twenty-one full time personnel including fifteen (15) uniformed officers, five clerk-dispatchers, and two reserve officers. Most crimes in the City are property-oriented (i.e. theft and vandalism). The City Standard for police per population is 1.5 officers per 1,000 residents. An indicator of service levels and the need for new personnel and facilities are provided by analysis of the number of service calls, response times, and population growth. In addition, the Police Department reviews proposed development projects and provides the approving agency information regarding impacts of the new development upon law enforcement services. The Department uses the number of dwelling units and a generation factor of 3-4 person per household to project population increase. The department provides police services to the City with 21 full time officers, who patrol a 7.4 square mile area 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The Kings County Sheriff’s Department is responsible for law enforcement within the unincorporated areas surrounding City, however, the City has been actively annexing surrounding fringe areas which has greatly reduced the fringe area under the authority of the Sheriff’s Department. The pro-active annexation of surrounding fringe by the City has resulted in the consolidation of many areas surrounding the City to now be served by a more readily accessible police force. The staff consists of a watch commander, 5 office clerks/dispatchers, 2 sergeants, and 15 uniformed officers, 13 take home vehicles and 1 unmarked vehicle. In 2006, the City average response time within the City was as follows: • Priority 1 calls: 3 minutes • Priority 2 calls: 8 minutes • Priority 3 calls: 8-12 minutes Corcoran currently maintains a police headquarters near the center of the downtown core, which is considered to be centrally located to reach all areas of the City. There are no plans for Police Department capital improvement projects or for a new sub-station. The need for any capital improvements projects is evaluated on an on-going basis by the City Managers Office. A State Supreme Court and one court holding cell (used only when court is in session) is located in Corcoran across from the Corcoran Police Department, and is in session every Friday. All arrested persons are transported to the County Jail in Hanford (approximately 25 minuets away). 3.4 FIRE STATION Corcoran has been contracting fire protection services from the Kings County Fire Department (KCFD). The City is served from Station 11, located on 1033 Chittenden Avenue within the City. The Station is listed below in Table 3.F. 2007 MSR Page 30 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Table 3.F: Kings County Fire Station Serving the City of Corcoran Station Equipment Personnel Station 11 3 Engines (Class A) 2-Captians 1033 Chittenden 1 lightweight truck/reserve truck 1-Battalion Chief Avenue Ambulance service 13-full time Corcoran CA 3 pumps (1 - 1,000 gm & 2 - 2,250 gm) firefighters 2 Patrol Vehicles (type 3) 14-Volunteers In addition, the County Fire Department coordinates closely with the California Highway Patrol who provides lifeflight (emergency helicopter service) for emergencies. The Corcoran State prison maintains its own fire station on the prison site. It should also be noted that the County has a mutual aid agreement with the prison for fire services. Both the Kings County Fire Department and the Prison Fire Department work closely, and often the Prison’s fire department will support Kings County on most fire calls. The prison’s fire department, however, cannot be relied upon to respond to all emergencies. For security reasons, it is not common for the County to assist with prison fire or emergencies. The City is within an area where grass and brush fires have the potential to occur, typically in an area where onsite water is not available. The City has established fire flow requirements for new developments at 1,000gallons per minute for residential units, and 3,000 gallons per minute for commercial and industrial land use. Currently, the Kings County Fire Department has stated that water pressure and quantity within the City of Corcoran has been sufficient in meeting the needs during fires. Station 11 responded to 655 calls within the City of Corcoran in 2006. This Station, however, responds to calls beyond the City limits, which was 899 response calls for 2006. Demographics data meets the criteria for urban response from the Fire Department. The average breakdown of calls for services is as follows: • Structures 35 (5%) • Vehicle 31 (4%) • Medical Aid (not traffic) 391 (57%) • Traffic Accidents 115 (17%) • Grass Fires 39 (5.8%) • Other 64 (11.2%) Since the construction of the State prison in 1988, the Kings County Fire Department has documented an increase in medical aid and traffic accidents. Although the City’s population has not increased as anticipated, the number of vehicle trips to and from Corcoran did, travelers include; prison employees and prison visitors, and commuters utilizing Freeway 99, SR 43, and Interstate 5. 2007 MSR Page 31 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 WATER SUPPLY / DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM The City of Corcoran relies totally on groundwater for its domestic use. The City is currently operating nine groundwater wells. The well capacity is shown in Table 3.G. In 2006 the City of Corcoran used 2,113.51 million gallons of water for potable water usage, which includes water usage by the prison. The highest water usage was the month of July 2006 at 271.22 million of gallons of water and the lowest was the month of January with 87.25 millions gallons of water. Historically, much of the southern San Joaquin Valley drained into the Tulare Lake Basin located in Central Kings County. Although the lake bed has been reclaimed for agricultural purposes, it still revives surface flows from the South Fork of the Kings River and other local channels, particularly under high flow conditions. Groundwater The Corcoran water service is located within the Tulare Lake Basin of the San Joaquin Valley. The total storage capacity of Tulare Lake Basin is 11,100,000 acre-feet (ac-ft). The Kings basin is located below both the Kings County and Tulare County and serves the communities of Hanford, Tulare, Visalia, Lemoore, Corcoran, and small communities throughout Kings and Tulare County. The Kings Basin is made up of predominate fine-grained confining layer, called Corcoran Clay. This layer is found throughout much of the west side of the San Joaquin Valley and divides the water in the Kings Basin into an overlaying, or “upper aquifer” or “lower aquifer”. These aquifers are primarily recharged by percolation of surface water in neighboring rivers and streams. The top of the Corcoran Clay layer is about 500 to 600 feet beneath the ground surface in the Corcoran area, and is about 90 feet thick. The groundwater well that provide Corcoran’s water are less than 500 feet in depth, above the Corcoran Clay and tap the “upper aquifer”. The new water treatment facility has brought the City into compliance with the new EPA Arsenic Standards. Prior to coming online, the City did experience a couple well collapses that shut down the City’s water service delivery and clogged water lines throughout the City. Groundwater Quality Groundwater quality is a concern for everyone in Corcoran. The City has had water quality problems in the past, in both the upper and lower aquifers. Water quality issues have ranged from bad color to mineral and total dissolved solids over a maximum contaminate level in the water supply. The Corcoran water supply, as described above, comes from the upper aquifer above the Corcoran Clay. There are three major water producing zones in the Corcoran area. Zone 1 has a depth of 250 feet below MSL (between the surface and the C-Clay). Zone 1 is characterized by high alpha activity (radio activity) and moderately high nitrate contents northeast of the City, southwest of the City; the water is relatively high in salinity. Zone 2 is the water bearing zone, and is 2007 MSR Page 32 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 generally between 250 and 500 feet below MSL, which is the strata between C-clay and the Corcoran Clay. This zone is tapped by the City wells and a number of irrigation wells northeast of Highway 43. The groundwater in this zone contains high contents of methane gas and is often colored. Water in this zone is high in salinity as well. Northeast of Highway 43, between C- Clay and E-Clay, high iron and manganese contents, hydrogen sulfide are present in some areas. The quality of groundwater in both zones above Corcoran Clay improves to the northeast. Zone 3 is the deepest water-producing zone, which extends from below the Corcoran Clay down approximately 1,900 feet below MSL. This zone is tapped mostly by large capacity agricultural wells. Water quality problems include; color, hydrogen sulfide and methane gas. All of the City wells produce water containing arsenic, with concentrations ranging from 6 to 35 ug/L (micrograms per liter or parts per billon, ppb). Arsenic occurs naturally in groundwater in and near Corcoran. Each of the Corcoran wells produces water or has produced water that has exceeded the MCL for arsenic. Table 3.G Water Well Capacity Summary Well Number City of Corcoran Well Capacity Summary Capacity (gpm) Capacity (mgd) 1A 1,530 2.20 2A 1,200 1.73 3A 1,450 2.09 4A 1,100 1.58 6A 1,400 2.02 7A 2,400 3.46 8A 1,800 2.59 9A 1,800 2.59 10 1,350 1.94 TOTAL 14,030 20.20 Source: City of Corcoran, Arsenic Treatment Study. Using projected population of 23,110 in 2007 and an average water demand of 154 gpcd, the annual water usage for the City would be 2,767 acre-feet. With an average prison population of 12,900 (+) in 2007 and a water demand of 150 gpcd, the annul water usage for the prison is projected to be approximately 1,126 acre-feet. The 2030 projected total annual water demand is 3,893 acre-feet. Since July 2006 all of this water has been treated through a water treatment plant, primarily for the removal of arsenic which generally ranges from low of 15 mg/L to high of around 40 mg/L in the raw water. Currently, the treatment plant reduces the arsenic levels to an average of 2ug/L with 2ug/L being the diction level for arsenic in potable water. The existing treatment plant is meeting the Federal arsenic standard of 10 ug/L enforced by the California Department of Health 2007 MSR Page 33 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Service. Currently, 100% of the water delivered to consumers in Corcoran services area meets the Federal standards. Residences are charged a $60 deposit to establish new water service account (refundable after one year). Most house and apartments are charged flat rates per month. Residential lots up to 4,000 square feet pay $39.90 per month; residence on lots 4,001 to 5,000 square feet pay $34.93 per month; residence on lots over 5,000 square feet pay $39.90 plus $.72 for each additional 100 square feet over 5,000 square feet. Residences with water meters pay $30.90 for the first 600 cubic feet of usage and $.83 for each additional 100 cubic feet. Distribution System The City of Corcoran water distribution system currently consists of a looped water system, nine active groundwater wells, a chlorination facility, and three booster pump stations with backup power supplies, sand settling tank, and approximately 2.7 million gallons of operational storage in nine tanks ranging from 50,000 gallons to one million gallons that takes in consideration of future growth. The City’s water system transports water to the residents of Corcoran, CSP- Corcoran, and approximately 3,000 people in the fringe areas of the City. 3.5 SANITARY SEWER – WASTEWATER TREATMENT Collection System The California Regional Water Quality Control Board (CRWQCB) regulates wastewater treatment and discharge. The city operates its treatment and disposal facility under a waste discharge permit issued by the Board. The current permit allows the City to discharge up to 1.45 million gallons per day (mgd) of treated wastewater effluent to land owned by the City and 0.3 mgd to reclamation land owned by Corcoran State Prison for a total of 1.75 mgd. The City has upgraded/expanded its facility in 2002, Quad Knopf, Inc., maintained the existing capacity of 2.0 mgd. The project was undertaken to correct discharge violations in biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and total suspended solid (TSS) in the aerated lagoon effluent. The City’s sewage collection system includes 16 sewer lift stations and approximately 17.7 miles of assorted transmission lines ranging from eight inch to twenty-one inch pipe. Treatment Plant The existing Corcoran treatment plant was constructed in the 1970s and has been upgraded, modified, or expanded in 1981, 1989, and most recently in 2002. Sewer and additional hook-up fees are listed in Table 3.H. 2007 MSR Page 34 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Table 3.H Sewer and Hook-Up Fees Sanitary Sewer Service $18.25 per residence (per month) Sewer Connection Fee $811.00 per fixture unit (4inch line) $1,038.00 per fixture unit (six inch line) Additional Hook-Up Fee $11.95 Capacity The existing plant was designed with a hydraulic capacity of approximately 2.0 million gallons per day (mgd). Currently, the plant is permitted for a discharge flow of 1.3 -1.5 mgd by the California Regional Water Quality Control Board (CRWQCB). Currently, the City of Corcoran’s treatment plant operates at 70 percent permitted capacity. In accordance with the RWQCB requirements, the City must plan for plant expansion when capacity projections are exceeded. Facilities Currently, the treatment plant is operated by the City and consists of a collection system that includes 16 sewer lift stations and approximately 17.7 miles of assorted transmission lines ranging from eight inch to twenty-one inch pipe. The effluent is applied to City owned agricultural lands (338 acres) on the south of Plymouth Avenue and King. 3.6 SOLID WASTE Solid waste from the City of Corcoran is transported to the Kings Waste and Recycling Authority (KWRA) Materials Recovery Facility in Hanford. KWRA transports approximately 15,873 tons of solid waste per year to Chemical Waste Inc.’s solid waste landfill Unit B-19, west of Kettleman City. The City offers two “City Clean – Up” days a year in Corcoran. In addition, the City operates a green waste collection program at the City Corporation Yard located on North Avenue. The Corcoran landfill is inspected on a monthly basis. The permitted capacity is 4.2 million cubic yards and remaining capacity is 3.4 million cubic yards. The permitted throughput is 1,400 tons/day and the estimated closure date of the landfill is 2010 unless expanded as proposed under permits with the County and State to accommodate additional materials. Residential customers pay a flat rate for services, and commercial rates are based on size of pickups per week. Table 3.I lists all permitted and active landfills in Kings County. Table 3.J compares Corcoran Landfill solid waste rates with those of nearby jurisdictions within Kings County. 2007 MSR Page 35 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Table 3.I Permitted and Active Landfills in Kings County Avenal Regional Landfill Chemical Waste Management Inc, Unit B16 Kettleman Hills - B18 Nonhaz Codisposal Table 3.J Monthly Solid Waste Rates City of Avenal City of Corcoran City of Hanford City of Lemoore $15.00 64-gallon 60- gallon 60- gallon container container container Residential $25.00 $25.00 $23.00 96-gallon 90- gallon 90- gallon container container container $31.00 $20.00 $18.00 $65.20 per week 1-cubic yard 1-cubic yard 1-cubic yard Commercial for a 2- cubic $46.00 $15.50 $15.50 2-cubic yard 2-cubic yard and yard container 1.5-cubic yard $23.50 $22.50 Industrial $68.30 3-cubic yard 3-cubic yard 2-cubic yard $34.25 $31.25 $88.30 3-cubic yard $131.00 3.7 STORMWATER DRAINAGE Stormwater drainage is accomplished in the City through a system of curbs and gutters, and a limited number of Stormwater collection lines and Stormwater drainage basins. Controlled discharge from drainage basins are allowed into designated canals owned and operated by the Corcoran Irrigation District (CID). Corcoran has relied on surface drainage systems to contain and transport Stormwater run-off. During “normal” storm events drainage systems function at an acceptable level of service. However, during more significant storm events the drainage system failures and streets become inundated for short periods of time. Flood zone mapping prepared by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) indicates that there are some areas in and around Corcoran that are in the 100 year flood zone which runs along the southwest edges of the City. Corcoran has also benefited from the levees located northwest and west of the City and maintained by the Cross Creek Flood Control District. These levees, however, are not certified for urban protection and are therefore not going to be considered by FEMA as providing urban level flood production. During major storm events many areas west of Corcoran may flood or be used during times of declared state of emergency with flood waters, since the Tulare Lake basin acts as a natural drainage for the Kings River, Cross Creek, and Tule River channels. 2007 MSR Page 36 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Flood inundation resulting from dam failure could potentially occur from Terminus Dam, Success Lake Dam, and Pine Flat Dam (located in the Sierra Nevadas east of the valley floor on the Kaweah, Tule, and Kings River). Additional improvements made to other flood control facilities in the Kings County area, has significantly reduced local natural flood hazards. According to the Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) inundation maps for Kings County show that a breech by any of the dams listed above will not affect the City of Corcoran. Through the City’s General Plan, the City Council has adopted runoff/discharge policies that have strict controls to meet the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) for development project. 3.8 ROADS AND CIRCULATION Direct accesses to the City are provided primarily through State Highway 43. State Highway 198 and old State Highway 190 provide the east west connecting travel that accesses Highway 99 that serves as a major route through the San Joaquin Valley. Arterials in Corcoran serve as the primary network for traffic flow. They typically have no less than a 100-foot right-of-way and connected areas of major traffic generation within the urban areas, county roads, and state highways. Collector streets in Corcoran typically have a right-of-way of 60 to 80 feet. They are intended to connect arterials with local streets and activity centers. Local streets provide direct access to abutting properties and for localized traffic movements within residential, commercial, and industrial areas. Table 3.K City of Corcoran “Major” Roadways Highway-Freeways State Route 43 State Route 137 State Route 42 Arterials Roadways 6th Avenue/Dairy Avenue (Paris Avenue to Orange) Flory Avenue King Avenue Orange Avenue (6th Avenue to Waukena Avenue) Otis Avenue Pickerell Avenue Waukena Avenue Paris Avenue Whitley Avenue Collectors 6 ½ Avenue 6th Avenue/Dairy Avenue Bainum Avenue North Avenue Orange Avenue Ottawa Avenue Patterson Avenue 2007 MSR Page 37 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Transit Services Corcoran Area transit (CAT) operates a fixed route and Dial-A-Ride services within the City. The two (2) fixed routes operate on weekdays with one round-trip starting at 7:10 AM and the other at 2:30 PM. The Dial-A-Ride services operate within the city limits Monday through Saturday from 8 AM to 5 PM. Kings Area Rural Transit (KART), which is under the managment of the Kings County Public Works Department, serves the transits need throughout Kings County as well to residents in adjacent counties. The fixed route provides transit service between the cities of Corcoran and Hanford, which is the KART hub for the County. As shown on Figure 3.2, the route is triangular and serves In Corcoran, fixed route transit service currently operates Monday through Saturday. KART does not operate on Sundays or holidays. Departures from Corcoran to Hanford occur at 6:45 am, 12:45 pm, 2:00 pm, 5:15 pm; arrivals from Hanford occur at 7:45 am, 12:35 pm, and 5:15 pm. The fixed route service costs $4.00 for adults and $2.00 for youths (ages 7-12). Trips within the City are $1.50; monthly passes for the Corcoran-Hanford Route may be purchased for $60.00. KART also provides Dial-A-Ride services for residents of Corcoran traveling more than ½ mile from an existing bus route or for those riders certified by KART as disabled. Dial-A-Ride (door to door) service is available in Corcoran on Monday through Friday between 11:00 am and 1:30 pm. All rides from home must be scheduled one day in advance. Existing Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities Existing bikeways are located along 6th Avenue/Dairy Avenue, Patterson Avenue, and Whitley Avenue. The bikeways may be bike paths, bike lanes or bike routes. Bike paths provide for bicycle travel on a right-of-way completely separated from street or highway. Bike lanes provide for striped lane for one-way travel on a street or highway. The Kings County Association of Governments (KCAG) adopted the Kings County Regional Bike Plan in July 1998. The adopted plan provides for connections between major urban and recreational facilities within Corcoran. In addition to the provision of bikeway routes, KART provides bike racks on transit vehicles to promote the use of transit and bicycling within urban areas. Rail Amtrak rail lines currently serve the City of Corcoran. Amtrak’s San Joaquin route provides passenger service with twelve stops in Corcoran daily, six northbound and six southbound, from 5:54 AM to 10:00 PM. Amtrak provides direct connections from Bakersfield to Stockton/Oakland with bus connections farther north or south. The City also provides a subsidized ticket program, providing reduced fares for trips between Hanford and Corcoran. 2007 MSR Page 38 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Air The Corcoran Airport is located on the northwest corner of Whitley Avenue and 7th Avenue on the western edge of Corcoran. The Corcoran Airport is currently privately owned by Lakeland Dusters, but is open for public use. The airport averages 5,000 trips annually, 85% which is agriculture related. The closest commercial air service is located at the Fresno Yosemite International Airport, approximately 56 miles northeast of the City. Figure 3.2 Fixed Route Transit Service Map 2007 MSR Page 39 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 3.9 PARKS The City of Corcoran currently owns and operates two parks (John Maroot and Father Wyatt), and one public pool facility. The City’s Public Works Department is responsible for maintenance of the two City parks, and the Corcoran Community Foundation (CCF) maintains Burnham Smith Park and James G. Boswell II Complex. The City coordinates with the YMCA and the CCF to provide recreation activities and facilities at James G. Boswell II Community Park. The Corcoran Joint Union School District (CJUSD) also provides open space and play areas for public use and providing use of the indoor facilities. The Cesar Chavez Park (formally Mark Twain Park) is jointly operated between the City and CJUSD. Park sites contain various types of facilities which are based on the needs of the residents. Facilities include; picnic areas, playground equipment, etc. Specialized recreational facilities (e.g., tennis courts, swimming pools, ball fields, and private fitness center) also exist within the City. Currently, the City of Corcoran has 48 acres of existing park land available for public use. CJUSD has approximately 44 acres of additional play fields, open space and indoor facilities which are available for public use. Between the City and District, the public has a total of 92 acres available. In addition to maintaining and operating park facilities, the City Parks and Recreation Department supervises and coordinates a wide variety of community programs and activities. Youth activities in agricultural field include Future Farmers of America (FFA) program, 4-H activities through the Corcoran 4-H Club, and the high school agricultural department. Community service organizations include; Rotary Club, Lions Club, American Legions, Corcoran Guild of Valley Children’s Hospital, Corcoran 50-50 Club, auxiliary to the Corcoran District Hospital, and other fraternal and professional groups. Regional Parks Facilities There are several regional parks that are within driving distance from Corcoran. There are several parks visited by the residents of Corcoran. Pixley National Wildlife Refuge is located 15 miles south of Corcoran near the town of Pixley. The Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park (ASHP) is south of the Pixley Wildlife Refuge off of SR 43. The ASHP provides educational tours with audio and video presentations. Camping facilities are open year-round are also provide to visitors. Lake Success, located approximately 40 miles east, provides boating, fishing, camping and picnicking opportunities to residents. Five golf courses can be reached in 30 minutes or less, the Tulare Golf Course is located it the City of Tulare, approximately 25 minutes from Corcoran. The facility offers an 18-hole golf course, driving range, and bar. 2007 MSR Page 40 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 3.10 ANIMAL CONTROL Currently the City of Corcoran relies on the Kings County Sheriffs Department to provide animal control services. The County runs an animal control and animal shelter services located in Hanford at 10909 Bonneyview Lane. The City promotes the humane care of animals through education and a humane proactive animal control. 3.11 LIBRARY The King County Library serves the local need of the City of Corcoran. The Corcoran Branch Library is located at 1001-A Chittenden Avenue. The library is open Monday through Friday and is closed on Sunday. 3.12 DETERMINATIONS FOR THE CITY OF CORCORAN The Service Review guidelines prepared by the State Office of Planning and Research recommend that issues relevant to the jurisdiction be address through written determinations called for in the Act. Based on the above information, following are the written determinations for the City. A. Infrastructure Needs and Deficiencies Purpose: To evaluate the infrastructure needs and deficiencies in terms of supply, capacity, condition of facilities, and service quality. 1. The City of Corcoran decision makers will rely on its 2007 General Plan to provide comprehensive planning guidelines and facility needs through 2030. 2. The City of Corcoran existing storm drainage infrastructure is limited to a number of collection lines on public roads within the City. These drains have alleviated any flooding problems resulting from storms. Storm drainage discharge into canals owned and operated by Corcoran ID is still a primary way of transferring Stormwater. While these agreement extend a number of years, the continued modifications to water quality standards and guidelines will require the City to find alternatives for discharge and disposal of drainage water in regional Stormwater basins opposed to continued discharge into canals. 3. Capital needs for the Corcoran Police Department are evaluated on an on-going basis. Indicators of service standards and the need for new personnel and facilities are provided by analysis of the number of service calls, response time, and population growth. 2007 MSR Page 41 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 4. While the current facility meets the needs of the City, expansion of the station will be needed to meet the population demands forecasted by the California Department of Finance and the Census Bureau. Additional space will be needed for training, investigative offices, and report writing areas for officers. A plan for expanding the existing facility should be considered as growth continues in the City. Maintaining the Level of Service for personnel requires significant capital investment for equipment such as vehicles, law enforcement supplies and equipment, additional office space. 5. The Kings County Fire Department (Corcoran sub-station) has available resources provided by the CSP-Corcoran Fire Department. 6. Currently, the City does have an active Website for public accessibility, thereby providing a higher level of public comments and community participation. B. Growth and Population Purpose: To evaluate services needs based upon existing and anticipated growth patterns and population projections. 1. The Kings County Association of Governments in conjunction with local jurisdictions (Avenal, Corcoran, Hanford, Lemoore, and Kings County) has developed a Regional Housing Needs Allocation Plan that extends through the year 2008. The plan directs new housing to where adequate infrastructure and public services can accommodate project growth. 2. The California Department of Finance has projected the City’s population growth to be very low (0.96%) C. Financing Constraints and Opportunities Purpose: To evaluate a jurisdiction’s capability to finance needed improvements and services. 1. The City of Corcoran prepares a comprehensive annual budget that clearly describes the services provided to the residents and the funds expended for those services. 2. The City of Corcoran has incorporated an Economic Development Element within its General Plan. 3. 17% of the land area is designated for commercial/industrial uses. This will be sufficient in generating revenue from taxable sales. This is a positive for the City in financing opportunities. 4. The City is not a member of the Public Agency Risk Sharing Authority of California and does not benefit from the insurance coverage’s offered at a lower rates. 2007 MSR Page 42 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 D. Opportunities for Rate Restructuring Purpose: To identify opportunities to impact rates positively without decreasing service levels. 1. The City of Corcoran provides its own law enforcement service for the community 2. The City does have in place contract services agreements for fire protection, and transit services. 3. The City has limited opportunity for rate restructuring in regards to water, sewer, and solid waste disposal. E. Opportunities for Shared Facilities Purpose: To identify the opportunities for a jurisdiction to share facilities and resources to develop more efficient services. 1. The City of Corcoran does share resources with Corcoran Irrigation District (Stormwater drainage services), Kings County Sheriff’s Department, and the California Highway Patrol. 2. Potential opportunities or partnering may exist with the California Department of Forestry (CDF), as well with various State agencies (i.e. California Department of Transportation, Department of Fish and game, etc.). F. Government Structure Options Purpose: To consider the advantages and disadvantages of various government structures to provide public services. 1. It is reasonable to conclude that the public services can continue to be provided by the City of Corcoran under existing government structure. G. Evaluation of Management Efficiencies Purpose: To consider the management structure of the jurisdiction. 1. The City’s budget and accounting practices are audited annually by a certified public accountant. 2. The City is required to submit a quarterly investment report to the City Council for review. 3. The City of Corcoran coordinates very closely with law enforcement and fire protection; although, there would be some benefit incorporating various departments under one “government center” to facilitate with administrative tasks and coordination. 4. Operations of the Police Department and Fire department are routinely evaluated by each department and station’s command staff. 2007 MSR Page 43 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 H. Local Accountability and Governance Purpose: To evaluate the accessibility and levels of public participation associated with the agency’s decision-making and management processes. 1. The City of Corcoran makes reasonable efforts to maintain a public dialogue within the City Council meeting forum. In particular, the City has conducted citizen advisory committees and implemented mailings to solicit public comment input when possible. 2. Currently, the City does provide an active Website for public accessibility, thereby encouraging the level of public comments and community participation. 3. The City complies with the Brown Act provisions for conduct of meetings, provides agendas for public review in advance to hearings. 4. Prior to budget approval, public meetings are conducted to include citizen comments. 2007 MSR Page 44 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 SECTION 4 4.0 CITY OF HANFORD The City of Hanford provides basic municipal type services directly or through contracts with Kings County. The city charges fees for water refuse services, sewer, and street lighting. They also charge for sewer connections. The following municipal services are discussed within this MSR: • Water Supply • Solid Waste • Storm Drainage • Sanitary Sewer • Park Maintenance • Street Maintenance • Law Enforcement and Fire Protection • Lighting 4.1 LOCATION, ADMINISTRATION, MANAGEMENT, AND OPERATIONS The City of Hanford (City) was incorporated in 1891 and is located within northern Kings County, midway between Interstate 5 and Route 99. State Route 43 and 198 provide regional access to the City. Hanford is the largest populated City of Kings County with 49,048 residents (Department of Finance Estimate 2006), serves as the County seat, and as the commercial, judicial and medical center for the northern Kings County area (Figure 4.1). The City of Hanford provides all services expected of a professionally-run City. City departments include Administration, Community Development (including Planning, Building, Redevelopment, and Housing), Public Works (including Utilities, Parks, Streets, and Engineering), Finance, Fire, Police, and Recreation. Table 4.A shows City department and staff positions. Since incorporation, the City has land use authority within its boundaries and maintains strict adherence to its General Plan Policies. 2007 MSR Page 45 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Figure 4.1: City of Hanford Boundaries and Facilities (Pre-October 2007) 2007 MSR Page 46 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 There is a five-member City Council, five-member Planning Commission, and City Manager, Assistant City Manager, City Clerk, Deputy City Clerk with office staff, other full-time positions include: Public Works and Building Director, Community Development Director, and Park Maintenance Staff. Table 4.A City Departments and Staff Positions City Managers Department City Manager Assistant City Manager City Clerk Deputy City Clerk Administrative Staff Finance Department Finance Director/Deputy City Manager Accounting Technician Account Clerk Account Clerk Community Development Department Community Development Director (Assistant City Manager serves at interim) Planning Manager (new position) Senior Planners (2) Contracted Staff Planner Planning Technician/Webmaster Community Development Specialist Building Official Code Enforcement Code Enforcement Officer/Residential Building Inspector Hanford Police Department Chief of Police Commander Dispatch Supervisor Records Supervisor Administrative Aide Public Works Department Public Works Director Streets and Grounds Superintendent Administrative Secretary The City Council acts as the Governing body of the City, with all regulatory and corporate powers of a municipal corporation provided under California State law. The five members of the Council are elected to serve a four year staggered term. Elections take place every two years. The Council elects a Mayor every two years, while the Mayor position is considered a “ceremonial” seat, the Mayor has the same legal authority as the Council Members. The Hanford City Council meets in Council Chambers on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month at 7:30 P.M. All meetings are open to the public, persons wishing to speak during the hearing my submit an agenda item one week in advance or may speak during the “public discussion” portion of the meeting. Council members can be reached through the City’s Managers Office. 2007 MSR Page 47 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 4.2 POPULATION AND GROWTH Population The California Department of Finance estimated the City’s 2006 population to be 48,744. The City was incorporated in 1891. Over the last seven years, the City of Hanford’s population has rapidly increased and the City has annexed the majority of new urban growth territory over the past several years. Tables 4.B through 4.D show the City’s past population and housing growth within Hanford and Kings County cities that are within this MSR. Table 4.B: City of Hanford Population and Housing (2000, 2006, 2007) Year Population Annual Percent Housing Annual Percent Change Change 2000 41,686 1.6% 1,472 ---- 2006 48,744 2.3% 16,867 0.9% 2007 50,370 - 17,389 0.8% Source: State of California, Department of Finance, E-5 City/County Population and Housing Estimates, January 1, 2000, 2006, 2007 with 2000 DRU Benchmark. Sacramento, California. Table 4.C: Total Incorporated¹ Population and Housing in Kings County (2000, 2006, 2007) Year Population Annual Percent Housing Annual Percent Change Change 2000 96,916 ----- 26,621 ---- 2006 111,655 1.1% 30,344 1.1% 2007 116,622 1.0% 31,614 1.0% Source: State of California, Department of Finance, E-5 City/County Population and Housing Estimates, January 1, 2000, 2006, 2007 with 2000 DRU Benchmark. Sacramento, California. Table 4.D: Total Population and Housing in Kings County (2000, 2006, 2007) Year Population Annual Percent Housing Annual Percent Change Change 2000 129,461 ----- 36,563 ---- 2006 148,073 1.1% 40,596 1.1% 2007 151,381 1.0% 41,524 1.0% Source: State of California, Department of Finance, E-5 City/County Population and Housing Estimates, January 1, 2000, 2006, 2007 with 2000 DRU Benchmark. Sacramento, California. ¹ City of Avenal, City of Corcoran, City of Hanford and City of Lemoore 2007 MSR Page 48 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Housing Inventory As shown in Table 4.E, the California Department of Finance estimates that there were 16,867 dwelling units (DU) within the City in 2006. Of these DU’s, over 73.9 percent are detached single-family homes, 2.1 percent are mobile homes, and 12.3 percent are located in structures of 5 or more units. Table 4.E also illustrates the composition of the housing stock is much different than what exists currently within the County. Table 4.E: Composition of the Housing Stock (2006) City of Hanford Kings County Housing Type Number of Units Percentage Number of Units Percentage Single-family, detached 12,474 73.9 28,697 70.69 Single-family, attached 552 3.2 2,425 5.97 2 to 4 – unit structure 1,446 8.5 2,815 6.93 5 or more unit structure 2,053 12.3 4,439 10.93 Mobile home 342 2.1 2,220 5.47 TOTAL 16,867 100 159,627 100 Source: State of California, Department of Finance, E-5 City/County Population and Housing Estimates, January 1, 2000, 2006, 2007 with 2000 DRU Benchmark. Sacramento, California. Average Household Size The 2000 Census reports that there were 14,722 households in the City, with an average household size of 2.93. Of those 14,722 households, it is estimated that 13,932 or 94.6 percent were family households, while 3,652 households (24.8 percent) were individuals living alone. The balances of the City’s households were comprised of non-family households with one or more occupant. The City’s existing population per household as identified in the 2000 Census (2.93) is low when compared to the other three cities: • City of Corcoran (3.44) • City of Avenal (4.14) • City of Lemoore (3.06) Projections According to the State of California Employment Development Department (EDD)¹ , Kings County population is projected to reach 198,700 by the year 2020, a gain of more of 53 percent of current figures. It is anticipated that the majority of population growth will be due to non- institutional population growth. ¹ Interim County Population Projections, State Department of Finance, June 2001 2007 MSR Page 49 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Population growth is anticipated in the fringe areas of Hanford and within Lemoore’s present boundaries on undeveloped sites. The Kings County Association of Governments in conjunction with local jurisdictions (Avenal, Corcoran, Hanford, Lemoore, and Kings County) has developed a Regional Housing Needs Allocation Plan that extends through the year 2008. The plan directs new housing to where adequate infrastructure and public services can accommodate project growth. 4.3 LAW ENFORCMENT The City of Hanford Police Department consists of 71 full time personnel including forty-nine (49) uniformed officers, and twenty-two (22) non-sworn personnel. Most crimes in the City are property-oriented (i.e. theft and vandalism). The City Standard for police per population is 1.5 officers per 1,000 populations. Indicator of service levels and the need for new personnel and facilities are provided by analysis of the number of service calls, response times, and population growth. In addition, the Police Department reviews proposed development projects and provides the approving agency information regarding impacts that new development may have upon law enforcement services. The Department uses the number of dwelling units and a generation factor of 3-4 person per household to project population increase. The department provides police services to the City with 22 full time officers, who patrol a 29.5 square mile area (or roughly 18,900) 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The Hanford Police Department is responsible for law enforcement in the annexation area in the City. The staff consists of a Chief of Police (Chief Carlos A. Mestas) and the departments eight (8) program areas include; Support Services, Records, Communications, Operations, Narcotics Task Force, Traffic Enforcement, School Resources Officer Program, and the Problem Oriented Policing Program. In 2002, the Department reorganized its command staff, and this change was considered to help facilitate supervision, customer service, and program accountability. Currently, there are no plans for capital improvements for additional services. The City is planning for a new police station by 2010. Hanford Court System The Superior Court of the State of California Kings County serves the City of Hanford, Avenal, Corcoran, and Lemoore. The Superior Court of the State of California, County of Kings is located at the Kings County Government Center, 1400 W. Lacey Blvd., Hanford, CA. 4.4 FIRE STATION The City of Hanford provides fire protection services to all of the incorporated area. The City is served from Stations 1 and 2, located within the City. The Stations are listed below in Table 4.F. 2007 MSR Page 50 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Table 4.F: City of Hanford Fire Department, Fire Stations Station Equipment Personnel Station I 2 Engines (Class A) 1-Captian 350 W. Grangeville 1 lightweight truck/reserve truck 1-Engineer Blvd. Ambulance service 5-full time Hanford CA 2 pumps (1 - 1,000 gm & 2 - 2,250 gpm) firefighters 1 Patrol Vehicles (type 3) 15-Volunteers (City Wide) Station II 3 Engines (Class A) 1-Captian Houston Ave. 1 lightweight truck/reserve truck 1-Engineer Hanford CA Ambulance service 4-full time 2 pumps (1 - 1,000 gm & 2 - 2,250 gpm) firefighters 1 Patrol Vehicles (type 3) In addition to fire protection services, the Hanford Fire Department provides (this is under the Community Development Department under Building) Public Education and Awareness Services, and Fire Suppression Division. Additional Services Include: • Fire suppression and rescue • Emergency medical services • Hazardous materials mitigation and regulation • Emergency prevention and public education efforts • Technical rescue • Rescue/hazardous materials unit Future (2 to 4 years) capital improvements include the construction of two additional fire stations (stations 3 and 4) on the western portion of Hanford, the addition of 18 fire personnel and equipment. 4.5 WATER SUPPLY / DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM The City of Hanford relies totally on groundwater for its domestic use. The City is currently operating 19 groundwater wells. The wells capacity is shown in Table 4.G. In 2006 the City of Hanford used 11,092 acre-feet of water. Historically, much of the southern San Joaquin Valley drained into the Tulare Lake Basin located in Central Kings County. Although the lake bed has been reclaimed for agricultural purposes, it still revives surface flows from the South Fork of the Kings River and other local channels, particularly under high flow conditions. Groundwater The groundwater basin underlying the City is the Tulare Lake Basin, which is part of the Tulare Hydrologic Region within the San Joaquin Valley. 2007 MSR Page 51 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 The total storage capacity of Tulare Lake Sub-Basin is 17,100,000 acre-feet (ac-ft) to a depth of 300 feet and 82,500 acre feet to the base of fresh groundwater. The Kings basin is located underground below both Kings County and Tulare County and serves the communities of Hanford, Tulare, Visalia, Lemoore, Corcoran, and small unincorporated communities throughout Kings and Tulare Counties. The Tulare lake Hydrologic Region contains multiple interconnected sub-basins that transfers, filter, and store water. These basins consist of the Kings, Kern, Kaweah, Tulare Lake, Tule, Westside, and Pleasant Valley groundwater basin. The Tulare Lake Groundwater Basin is not an adjudicated groundwater basin, as defined by the California Water Plan Update, Bulletin 160-98. The City of Hanford 2005 Urban Water Management Plan (February 2006) reports the 1995 Level Overdraft for the Tulare Lake Region at 820 thousand acre-feet (taf). Groundwater overdraft is expected to decline to 670 taf during the 2020 average and drought years. During drought years these levels normally decline, and during wet years most basins recover. The clay layer strata located around 300 feet below Hanford acts as a barrier to groundwater recharge and effective groundwater recharge will require the City to coordinate these types of efforts in surrounding areas beyond the City limits. Groundwater Quality New Federal Arsenic Minimum Containment Level (MCL) of 0.010 milligrams per liter were established by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and went into effect January 2006. The State of California is in the process of developing and adopting new standards for levels of arsenic containments in drinking water. The EPA has the enforcement authority for new Federal Arsenic MCL until California regulations are adopted. The City of Hanford has been given notice by the California Department of Health Services that the criteria for compliance be identical to the rules outlined in the federal Register for the arsenic MCL. The City of Hanford has adopted an Arsenic Reduction Study which identifies actions to be taken by the City of Hanford in attempts to meet the new Federal Arsenic Standards. The City Council has directed City Staff to proceed with the implementation of the recommendations identified in the Arsenic Reduction Study. The City of Hanford has submitted to the California Department of Health Services and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) a schedule of implementation of the recommendations identified in the Arsenic Reduction Study. The USEPA has advised the City that compliance must be achieved by December 31, 2009. Currently, the City of Hanford has received a Notice of Violation from the California Department of Health Services informing the City that five of their wells do not comply with the new Federal Arsenic MCL. The non-compliance notice does not require termination of the use of the identified wells, but does require the City of Hanford to provide quarterly monitoring reports and public notice of non-compliance. Currently, the City’s water system and water quality are in compliance with the new Federal Standards. The City of Hanford is implementing a plan for reducing Arsenic in its groundwater supply system. The intent of the plan is to monitor and meet EPA’s maximum contaminant levels (MCL) of 0.0010 mg/L. The plan is divided into three phases (table 4.G), provides for the abandonment of four wells, replacement of six wells and rehabilitation of three wells. Although 2007 MSR Page 52 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 arsenic occurs naturally in groundwater in and near Hanford, five of the Hanford wells produce water or have produced water that has exceeded the MCL for arsenic. Table 4.G Water Well Capacity Summary Well City of Hanford Well Capacity Summary Number Existing Phase I Phase II Phase III Capacity Capacity Capacity Capacity (gpm) (gpm) (gpm) (gpm) 2 800 2,000 2,000 2,000 11 800 0 0 0 16 575 2,000 2,000 2,000 18 900 0 0 0 22 930 0 0 0 25 800 0 0 0 31 1,400 1,400 2,000 2,000 32 1,000 1,000 2,000 2,000 33 900 900 900 900 34 1,400 1,400 2,000 2,000 35 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,200 36 1,000 1,000 1,000 900 37 850 850 850 850 38 1,600 1,600 1,600 1,600 39 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000 40 2,000 2,000 2,000 1,500 41 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000 42 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000 43 2,500 2,500 2,500 2,500 44 0 2,000 2,000 2,000 TOTAL 24,455 25,650 27,850 27,450 Source: City of Hanford 2005 Urban Water Management Plan. Distribution System and Water Use The City of Hanford (City) currently utilizes local groundwater. The City’s municipal water system obtains its water supply from underground aquifers. The City pumps groundwater from 19 wells throughout the City. The City’s pumping capacity is currently 24,455 gallons per minute (gpm) or 35.2 million gallons a day (MGD), according to the City of Hanford 2005 Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP). Water is transported from wells to the consumers through the City’s distribution system (pipe sizes range from 2- and 24 inches in diameter). The City of Hanford currently maintains four storage reservoirs within the 2007 MSR Page 53 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 service area for a total capacity of 2.8 million gallons (mg). Reservoirs include a small elevated tank, one ground level storage reservoir, and two 1-million gallon tanks constructed in October, 2005. The City of Hanford water customers include residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional groups. A City ordinance passed in 1976 dictated the installation of meters on all new customers. The City meters all commercial and industrial users. Table 4.H show the distribution of users and water use in the City. Table 4.H: Water Use by Customer Type Customer Type Number of Customers Water Use (gpm) Residential Metered 10,235 - Non-Metered 2,809 - Sub-Total 13,044 5,109 Public Authority Metered 301 - Non-Metered 40 - Sub-Total 341 942 Industrial Metered 18 - Non-Metered 0 - Sub-Total 18 132 Commercial Metered 988 - Non-Metered 0 - Sub-Total 988 797 Total 14,391 6,980 Source: City of Hanford 2005 Urban Water Management Plan. Projected Water Use Based on the future trends in population obtained from 2002 General Plan, and the established per capita water consumption rate of 215 gpcd, the City’s future water requirements were estimated and summarized in Table 5.3. It is anticipated that the City’s average day and maximum day requirements for 2030 will approach 27.4 MGD and 49.7 MGD, respectively. 4.6 SANITARY SEWER – WASTEWATER TREATMENT Wastewater Treatment The California Regional Water Quality Control Board (CRWQCB) regulates wastewater treatment and discharge. The city operates its treatment and disposal facility under a waste discharge permit (Order No. 01-153) issued by the Board. The current permit allows the City to 2007 MSR Page 54 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 discharge up to 8 million gallons per day (mgd) of treated wastewater effluent. The Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF) is a two-stage trickling filter and extended aeration facility and was originally constructed in 1948-49. Five upgrades and expansions have occurred since then. The existing facility has a designed capacity of 8.0 million gallons per day (MGD), on an average annual wastewater flow basis (AAWF). The facility includes: a headwork’s: two primary clarifiers; two primary trickling filters; two secondary trickling filters; one oxidation ditch; four secondary clarifiers; three anaerobic digesters; dissolved air flotation sludge thickener; sixteen sludge drying beds; one facultative sludge lagoon; one effluent equalization basin; six effluent disposal/percolation ponds, and two emergency effluent storage ponds. The City initiated a program to ensure long-term reuse for treated disinfected wastewater for agricultural purposes and recharge of groundwater supplies for agriculture. The City has obtained a “Master Reclamation Permit” from the California Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) for this purpose. Approximately 70 to 80 % of the influent to the wastewater facility is reused for agricultural irrigation as allowed under the RWQCB Master Reclamation permit. Effluent is used to irrigate crops on privately owned land. Reclamation sites are permitted under the City’s two monitoring report programs (MRP) from the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) (5-00-222 and 5-00-223). MRP 5-00-222 governs water recycling on the 11,500 acres privately owned farmland within the Lakeside Irrigation District (LIWD). MRP 5- 00-223 governs water recycling on a City-owned 1,600 acres site (for future use), including several small privately-owned farms near the WWTF (current users). The City maintains the operation of irrigating land it owns. To inure long-term feasibility of effluent reuse and preserve agricultural land, the City has an additional 1,600 acres (currently not being irrigated with effluent and the pipeline has not been built) of land that is capable of accepting reusable treated disinfected wastewater for agricultural purposes. Distribution System Hanford’s system includes 8” to 30” pipes with 12” mains laid out on an approximate one mile grid. Expansion will involve continued looping of lines and expansion of fire flow reserve facilities. The City has determined that there are few system constraints for future development. Collection System While capacity of the wastewater facility is not an immediate concern, the collection and transportation system appears to have major constraints in various parts of the City’s Planning Area. Sewer and additional hook-up fees are listed in Table 4.H. 2007 MSR Page 55 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Table 4.I Sewer and Hook-Up Fees Sanitary Sewer Service $18.25 per residence (per month) Sewer Connection Fee $811.00 per fixture unit (4inch line) $1,038.00 per fixture unit (six inch line) Additional Hook-Up Fee $11.95 4.7 SOLID WASTE There are no active solid waste disposal facilities within the Planning Area. The Kings Waste Management Authority (KCWMA) was formed in September 1998 by agreement between the cities of Hanford, Lemoore, Corcoran, and the County of Kings in order to provide a regional approach to all waste management activities in the Kings County. Solid waste from the City of Hanford is transported to the Kings Waste and Recycling Authority (KWRA) Materials Recovery Facility in Hanford. The existing KWRA landfill southeast of the City of Hanford was closed in 1998. The KWRA does not operate an active landfill. Waste is hauled by transfer trucks from the Material Recover Facility (MRF) to the State permitted Chemical Waste Management Landfill site in Kettlemen Hills (45 miles southwest of the MRF). The landfill is inspected on a monthly basis. The permitted capacity is 4,200,000 million cubic yards and remaining capacity is 1,901,860 million cubic yards. The permitted throughput tons/day and the estimated closure date of the landfill is 2010. Residential customers pay a flat rate for services, and commercial rates are based on size of pickups per week. Table 4.I lists all permitted and active landfills in Kings County. Table 4.J compares City of Hanford’s solid waste rates with those of nearby jurisdictions within Kings County. Table 4.J Permitted and Active Landfills in Kings County Avenal Regional Landfill Chemical Waste Management Inc, Unit B16 Kettleman Hills - B18 Nonhaz Codisposal Table 4.K Monthly Solid Waste Rates City of Avenal City of Corcoran City of Lemoore $15.00 64-gallon 60- gallon container container Residential $25.00 $23.00 96-gallon 90- gallon container container $31.00 $18.00 2007 MSR Page 56 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 $65.20 per week 1-cubic yard 1-cubic yard Commercial for a 2- cubic $46.00 $15.50 2-cubic yard and yard container 1.5-cubic yard $22.50 Industrial $68.30 3-cubic yard 2-cubic yard $31.25 $88.30 3-cubic yard $131.00 4.8 STORMWATER DRAINAGE Stormwater drainage is accomplished in the City through a system of curbs and gutters, and a limited number of Stormwater collection lines and Stormwater drainage basins. Controlled discharge from drainage basins are allowed into designated canals owned and operated by People’s Ditch Company irrigation canal. Hanford has relied on surface drainage systems to contain and transport Stormwater run-off. During “normal” storm events drainage systems function at an acceptable level of service. Flood zone mapping prepared by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) indicates that the Planning Area lies outside any major flood prone areas. There are small localized areas within the Planning Area where it is shown within the 100 year flood plain. Flood inundation from potential dam failure could result from Terminus Dam, Success Lake Dam, and Pine Flat Dam (located in the Sierra Nevada east of the valley floor on the Kaweah, Tule, and Kings River). Additional improvements made to other flood control facilities in the Kings County area, have significantly reduced local natural flood hazards. According to the Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) inundation maps for Kings County show that a breech by any of the dams listed above will not affect the City of Hanford. Through the City’s General Plan, the City Council has adopted runoff/discharge policies that have strict controls to meet the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) for development project. 4.9 ROADS AND CIRCULATION Direct accesses to the City are provided by Highway 198, SR 43. Arterials in Hanford serve as the primary network for traffic flow between Hanford and Selma to the north and Corcoran to the South (table 4.K). They typically have no less than a 100-foot right-of-way and connected areas of major traffic generation within the urban areas, county roads, and state highways. They are intended to connect arterials with local streets and activity centers. Local streets provide direct access to abutting properties and for localized traffic movements within residential, commercial, and industrial areas. Investigation of current traffic volumes on the County facilities revealed no urban levels of traffic. 2007 MSR Page 57 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Table 4.L City of Hanford “Major” Roadways Highway-Freeways State Highway 198 State Route 43 Arterials Roadways North/South East/West 13th Avenue(Huston and Fargo) Jackson Avenue (11th Avenue to 10th Avenue) 12th Avenue (Idaho and Flint) Idaho Avenue (12th to 10th Avenue) 11th Avenue (Jackson and Flint) Huston Avenue (13th to SR 43) 10th Avenue (Jackson to Highway 43) Hanford-Armona Rd (13th to 10th, 9th to SR 43) 9th Avenue (Huston and Fargo) 3rd Street (1 way, 11th to 10th Avenue) State Highway 43 (Expressway) State Highway 198 (Freeway) 4th Street (1-way, 11th to 10th Avenue) 6th Street (11th to 10 Avenue) 7th Street (mall Drive to 10th Avenue) Lacey Boulevard (10th Avenue to SR43) Lacey Boulevard (13th Avenue to SR43) Grangeville Boulevard (13th Avenue to SR43) Fargo Avenue (13th Avenue to SR43) Flint Avenue (12th Avenue to SR43) Collectors North/South East/West Campus/University (6th street to Grangeville) Hume (13th to 11th) Greenfield (lacey to 13th Avenue) Third (10th to 9th Avenue) Rodgers (11th Avenue Mulberry) Garner (Lacey to 11th Avenue) Redington (4th Street to Grangeville) Ivy (10th to 11th Avenue) Irwin (4th Street to Grangeville) Florinda (11th to 9th Avenue) Harris (6th Street to Grangeville) East Malone (Douty to 10th Avenue) Fitzgerald Lane to Grangeville ½ North of Fargo McGreary (11th Avenue to Douty) Douty Street (Hanford-Armona Road to Flint) Terrance (Douty to 10th Avenue) Kensington (Grangeville to Fargo) Leland (Douty to 9th Avenue) 9 ¼ Avenue (Lacey to Grangeville) Cortner (11th Avenue to Kensington) Centennial Drive (Lacey to Grangevill) Mall Drive (ring-road) Transit Services The City of Hanford and surrounding areas provide and are served by a number of public, private, and social service transportation organizations. The following provide a general overview of these services. Kings Area Rural Transit (KART), which is the jurisdiction of the Kings County Public Works Department and is the largest provider of public transit services within Kings County. KART serves the transit need throughout Kings County as well to residence in adjacent counties. The fixed route provides transit service between the cities of Avenal, Armona, Lemoore, the Lemoore Navel Air Station, Visalia, Corcoran, Stratford, Kettleman City, and Hanford, which is 2007 MSR Page 58 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 the KART hub for the County. As shown on Figure 4.2, the route is triangular and is estimated to serve 47,000 riders per month. Figure 4.2 Fixed Route Transit Service Map 2007 MSR Page 59 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 KART currently operates Monday through Saturday. KART does not operate on Sundays or holidays. Departures from Corcoran to Hanford occur at 6:45 am, 12:45 pm, 2:00 pm, 5:15 pm; arrivals from Hanford occur at 7:45 am, 12:35 pm, and 5:15 pm. The fixed route service costs $4.00 for adults and $2.00 for youths (ages 7-12). Trips within the City are $1.50; monthly passes for the Corcoran-Hanford Route may be purchased for $60.00. KART also provides Dial-A-Ride services for residents traveling more than ½ mile from an existing bus route or for those riders certified by KART as disabled. Dial-A-Ride (door to door) service is available on Monday through Friday between 11:00 am and 1:30 pm. All rides from home must be scheduled one day in advance. Private Transportation Private transit Services are provided in Hanford by three taxi-cab services (Hanford taxi, Marathon Cab, and Central Valley Cab). Orange belt Stages provide east/west bus services, and offers a daily scheduled bus service four times a day to Goshen and Visalia, one bus per day to Paso Robles and Fresno. Greyhound provides the link to the coastal communities and northern and southern destinations. Existing Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities Hanford has adopted a comprehensive bicycle plan as part of the County Regional transportation Plan. The bikeways may be bike paths, bike lanes or bike routes. Bike paths provide for bicycle travel on a right-of-way completely separated from street or highway. Bike lanes provide for striped lane for one-way travel on a street or highway. Several areas in Hanford lack adequate pedestrian facilities, currently the City’s General Plan and Bicycle Plan promotes the development of shared use roadway systems, and require development consideration be given to new bike and pedestrian facilities on newly developed properties (residential or commercial). The Kings County Association of Governments (KCAG) adopted the Kings County Regional Bike Plan in July 1998. The adopted plan provides for connections between major urban and recreational facilities within community. In addition to the provision of bikeway routes, KART provides bike racks on transit vehicles to promote the use of transit and bicycling within urban areas. Rail The Burlington Northern and Santa Few and San Joaquin Valley Railroads (SJVR) serve Hanford. The SJVR provides freight service to the Hanford area. Currently, the SJVR has a limited schedule of service (1 train per day) and is in need of major track improvements on existing routes. The Burlington and Santa Fe railroad operates between 40 to 50 trips a day, overtime it is anticipated that these services will need to be increased. 2007 MSR Page 60 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 AMTRAK’s San Joaquin route provides passenger with rail services. Currently, several north and south bound trains operate through Hanford each day. The northbound service connects Hanford with the bay Area and Sacramento, while the southbound service connects with Bakersfield and southern California. AMTRAK stops in Corcoran daily, six northbound and six southbound, from 5:54 AM to 10:00 PM. Amtrak provides direct connections from Bakersfield to Stockton/Oakland with feeder bus connections farther north or south. Air Tranportation The Hanford Municipal Airport is the only publicly owned airport in Kings County. The airport enforces city, state, and federal aviation regulations and administers leases, provides tie-downs, hanger shelters, and overall maintenance. The airport is located at 945 Hanford-Armona Road. The closest commercial air service is located at the Fresno Yosemite International Airport, approximately 56 miles northeast of the City. 4.10 PARKS The City of Hanford currently owns and operates 18 neighborhood parks comprising a total of 36.8 acres. The City’s Recreation Department and Parks Division is responsible for operations and maintenance of the City owned parks. Eleven of the City’s parks are developed. The City has three communities (Centennial Park, Youth Athletic Complex, and Hidden Valley Park). Community parks and sports fields occupy approximately 94.2 acres within the City. Each of the park sites contains various types of facilities, which are based on the needs of the residents served by the park, park size and geographic characteristics. Specialized recreational facilities (e.g., tennis courts, swimming pool, ball fields) exist at seven of the City’s Facilities. The most common specialized facilities are lighted ball-fields. Regional Parks Facilities There are several regional parks that are within driving distance from Hanford. Hickey Park, Burris, and Laton-Kingston, others include; Pixley National Wildlife Refuge, located 30 miles south of Hanford nears the town of Pixley. The Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park (ASHP) is south of the Pixley Wildlife Refuge off of SR 43. The ASHP provides educational tours with audio and video presentations. Camping facilities are open year-round are also provide to visitors. Lake Success provides boating, fishing, camping and picnicking opportunities to residence of Corcoran; located approximately one north Lake Success provides valuable water access. The City’s General Plan lays out the needs of the community, by providing park standards for both community and neighborhood park development (Table 4.L). In development of these standards three factors were considered: population projections for the development, park site development criteria for new facilities including major roadways and school, minimum park size to provide efficient maintenance. 2007 MSR Page 61 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Table 4.M: City of Hanford General Plan Park Standards Park Type Acres per 1,000 Acres Per Park Service Area persons Neighborhood 1.5 5 to 10 Acres .5 Miles Community 2.0 20 to 50 Acres 2 Miles School playground equipment, ball fields, play courts and open grass areas meet some community and neighborhood recreational need in nearly all areas of the City. The Hanford High School District contributes to community recreation needs through use of on-site facilities and programs for adult education, athletics, and social and cultural activities. 4.11 ANIMAL CONTROL Currently the City of Hanford relies on Kings County to provide animal control services. The County runs an animal control and animal shelter services located in Hanford at 10909 Bonneyview Lane. The City promotes the humane care of animals through education and a humane proactive animal control. 4.12 LIBRARY The King County Library serves the local need of the City of Hanford. The Hanford Branch Library is located at 401 N. Douty Street. The library is open Monday through Friday and is closed on Sunday. 4.13 DETERMINATIONS FOR THE CITY OF HANFORD The Service Review guidelines prepared by the State Office of Planning and Research recommend that issues relevant to the jurisdiction be address through written determinations called for in the Act. Based on the above information, following are the written determinations for the City. A. Infrastructure Needs and Deficiencies Purpose: To evaluate the infrastructure needs and deficiencies in terms of supply, capacity, condition of facilities, and service quality. 1. The City of Hanford decision makers will rely on its 2002 General Plan to provide comprehensive planning guidelines and facility needs through 2025. 2. The City of Hanford existing storm drainage infrastructure is limited to a number of collection lines on public roads within the City. These drains have alleviated any flooding problems resulting from storms. Controlled discharge from drainage basins are allowed into designated canals owned and operated by People’s Ditch Company irrigation canal. 2007 MSR Page 62 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 3. Capital needs for the Hanford Police Department are evaluated on an on-going basis. Indicators of service standards and the need for new personnel and facilities are provided by analysis of the number of service calls, response time, and population growth. While the current facility meets the needs of the City, expansion of the station will be needed to meet the population demands forecasted by the California Department of Finance and the Census Bureau. Additional space will be needed for training, investigative offices, and report writing areas for officers. In 2002, the Department reorganized its command staff, this restructure will help facilitate supervision, customer service, and program accountability. A plan for expanding the existing facility should be considered as growth continues in the City. Maintaining the LOS for personnel requires significant capital investment for equipment such as vehicles, law enforcement supplies and equipment, and additional office space. 4. The City of Hanford provides fire protection services in the annexation area. The City is served from Stations 1 and 2, located within the City. 5. Future (2 to 4 years) capital improvements include the construction of two additional fire stations (stations 3 and 4) on the western portion of Hanford, the addition of 18 fire personnel and equipment 6. Currently, the City does have an active Website for public accessibility, thereby providing a higher level of public comments and community participation. B. Growth and Population Purpose: To evaluate services needs based upon existing and anticipated growth patterns and population projections. 1. The Kings County Association of Governments in conjunction with local jurisdictions (Avenal, Corcoran, Lemoore, and Kings County) has developed a Regional Housing Needs Allocation Plan that extends through the year 2008. The plan directs new housing to where adequate infrastructure and public services can accommodate project growth. 2. The California Department of Finance has projected the City’s population growth to be higher in comparison to other City’s in Kings County (2.93%) C. Financing Constraints and Opportunities Purpose: To evaluate a jurisdiction’s capability to finance needed improvements and services. 1. The City of Hanford prepares a comprehensive annual budget that clearly describes the services provided to the residents and the funds expended for those services. 2. The City of Hanford has incorporated an Economic Development Element within its General Plan. 2007 MSR Page 63 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 3. 35% of the land area is designated for commercial/industrial uses. This will be sufficient in generating revenue from taxable sales. This is a positive for the City in financing opportunities. 4. The City is not a member of the Public Agency Risk Sharing Authority of California and does not benefit from the insurance coverage’s offered at a lower rates. 5. The City of Hanford and Kings County have cooperatively developed the Integrated Waste Management Plan (1995). D. Opportunities for Rate Restructuring Purpose: To identify opportunities to impact rates positively without decreasing service levels. 1. The City of Hanford provides its own law enforcement service for the community 2. The City does provide its own fire protection, and transit services. 3. The City does have limited opportunity for rate restructuring in regards to water, sewer, and solid waste disposal. E. Opportunities for Shared Facilities Purpose: To identify the opportunities for a jurisdiction to share facilities and resources to develop more efficient services. 1. The City of Hanford does share resources with People’s Ditch Company irrigation canal. 2. Potential opportunities or partnering may exist with the California Department of Forestry (CDF), as well with various State agencies (i.e. California Department of Transportation, Department of Fish and game, etc.). 3. The City does have a number of County unincorporated islands remaining within the City. Although, the City has shown little interest in annexing these areas, these areas could benefit from receiving City Fire and Police services. F. Government Structure Options Purpose: To consider the advantages and disadvantages of various government structures to provide public services. 1. It is reasonable to conclude that the public services can continue to be provided by the City of Hanford under existing government structure. G. Evaluation of Management Efficiencies Purpose: To consider the management structure of the jurisdiction. 1. The City’s budget and accounting practices are audited annually by a certified public accountant. 2007 MSR Page 64 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 2. The City is required to submit a quarterly investment report to the City Council for review. 3. The City of Hanford coordinates very closely with law enforcement and fire protection; although, there would be some benefit incorporating various departments under one “government center” to facilitate with administrative tasks and coordination. H. Local Accountability and Governance Purpose: To evaluate the accessibility and levels of public participation associated with the agency’s decision-making and management processes. 1. The City of Hanford makes reasonable efforts to maintain a public dialogue within the City Council meeting forum. In particular, the City has conducted citizen advisory committees and implemented mailings to solicit public comment input when possible. 2. City does provide an active Website for public accessibility, thereby encouraging the level of public comments and community participation. 3. The City complies with the Brown Act provisions for conduct of meetings, provides agendas for public review in advance to hearings. 4. Prior to budget approval, public meetings are conducted to include citizen comments. 2007 MSR Page 65 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 SECTION 5 5.0 CITY OF LEMOORE The City of Lemoore provides basic municipal type services directly or through contracts with Kings County. The city charges fees for water refuse services, sewer, and street lighting. They also charge for sewer connections. The following municipal services are discussed within this MSR: • Water Supply • Solid Waste • Sanitary Sewer • Park Maintenance • Street Maintenance • Law Enforcement and Fire Protection • Lighting 5.1 LOCATION, ADMINISTRATION, MANAGEMENT, AND OPERATIONS The City of Lemoore (City) is situated within the northern portion of Kings County. The City is located halfway between Los Angeles and Sacramento, and is located conveniently near State Route198 and State Route 41, providing commuters highway access to Fresno (30 minutes north) via Highway 41, and Visalia (15 minutes to the east) on Highway 198. Lemoore is located three to four miles east of the Lemoore Navel Air Station. Lemoore also sits only a few hours from Yosemite, Kings Canyon National Forest, and the Central Coast. The City of Lemoore is made up of many of the characteristics of many of the Central Valley communities. Lemoore has a traditional downtown, bounded by residential neighborhoods and agricultural lands. The City comprises of approximately 5,376 acres (8.4 square miles) of incorporated land (44 percent of the city’s planning area). The Lemoore Navel Air Station (NASL), one of the Navy’s premier fighter jet based in the United States, is locate west of the City of Lemoore. According to the 2000 Census, approximately 5,800 people live in the base’s 1,500 housing units. Currently, 6,300 military personnel work on base. It is estimated that the population of military personnel will increase to 8,800 by 2009. 2007 MSR Page 66 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 The City’s primary Sphere of Influence (SOI) boundary incorporates a total of 11,860 acres (18.5 square miles) or 97 percent of the total land located within the City’s planning area (figure 5.1). This boundary includes incorporated and unincorporated that is considered future service are by the City of Lemoore. The City of Lemoore is responsible for schools, water supply, sanitary sewer, solid waste, street lighting, public protection, and park maintenance. There is a five-member City Council, five- member Planning Commission, and City Manager with office staffs. These and other full-time positions are listed in table 5.A. Table 5.A City Departments and Staff Positions City Managers Department City Manager City Clerk Administrative Analyst Personnel/Administration Finance Department Finance Director/Deputy City Manager Accounting Technician Account Clerk Account Clerk Community Development Department Community Development Director Building Official Planning Technician/Webmaster Code Enforcement Community Development Specialist Code Enforcement Officer/Residential Building Inspector Lemoore Police Department Chief of Police 15-Officers Commander 1-Reserve Officer Police Analyst 2-Community Service Officers 5-Sergants Records Supervisor 5-Senior officers 2-Records Technicians Police Chaplin Animal Control Officer Lemoore Volunteer Fire Department Fire Chief 11-EMTs 2-Assistant Chiefs 1-Secretary 4-Crew Captains 1-Matianence Crew Person 7-Engineers Parks and Recreation Director Supervisor Parks & Facilities Superintendent Public Works Department Public Works Director Streets and Grounds Superintendent Administrative Secretary 2007 MSR Page 67 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Figure 5.1: City of Lemoore Boundaries and Facilities (Pre-October 2007) 2007 MSR Page 68 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 5.2 POPULATION AND GROWTH Population The California Department of Finance estimated the City’s 2006 population to be 23,241. The City was incorporated in July 11, 1900. Over the last seven years, the City of Lemoore’s population has rapidly increased. Tables 5.B through 5.D show the City’s past population and housing growth within the City of Lemoore and Kings County are provided below. Table 5.B: City of Lemoore Population and Housing (2000, 2006, 2007) Year Population Annual Percent Housing Annual Percent Change Change 2000 19,712 ---- 6,823 ---- 2006 23,241 15.7% 7,859 7.5% 2007 24,098 2.9% 8,125 3.2% Source: State of California, Department of Finance, E-5 City/County Population and Housing Estimates, January 1, 2000, 2006, 2007 with 2000 DRU Benchmark. Sacramento, California. Table 5.C: Total Incorporated¹ Population and Housing in Kings County (2000, 2006, 2007) Year Population Annual Percent Housing Annual Percent Change Change 2000 96,916 ----- 26,626 ---- 2006 111,655 13.2% 30,344 12.2% 2007 116,622 4.2% 31,614 4.0% Source: State of California, Department of Finance, E-5 City/County Population and Housing Estimates, January 1, 2000, 2006, 2007 with 2000 DRU Benchmark. Sacramento, California. Table 5.D: Total Population and Housing in Kings County (2000, 2006, 2007) Year Population Annual Percent Housing Annual Percent Change Change 2000 129,461 ----- 36,563 ---- 2006 148,073 12.5% 40,596 9.9% 2007 151,381 2.1% 41,524 2.2% Source: State of California, Department of Finance, E-5 City/County Population and Housing Estimates, January 1, 2000, 2006, 2007 with 2000 DRU Benchmark. Sacramento, California. Housing Inventory As shown in Table 5.E, the California Department of Finance estimates that there were 7,859 of dwelling units (DU) within the City in 2006. Of these DU’s, over 66.4 percent are detached single-family homes, 4.1 percent are mobile homes, and 21.6 percent are located in structures of ¹ City of Avenal, City of Corcoran, City of Hanford, and City of Lemoore 2007 MSR Page 69 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 5 or more units. Table 5.E also illustrates the composition of the housing stock is much different than what exists currently within the County. Table 5.E: Composition of the Housing Stock (2006) City of Lemoore Kings County Housing Type Number of Units Percentage Number of Units Percentage Single-family, detached 5,226 66.4 28,697 70.69 Single-family, attached 154 1.8 2,425 5.97 2 to 4 – unit structure 487 6.1 2,815 6.93 5 or more unit structure 1,663 21.6 4,439 10.93 Mobile home 329 4.1 2,220 5.47 TOTAL 7,859 100 40,596 100 Source: State of California, Department of Finance, E-5 City/County Population and Housing Estimates, January 1, 2000, 2006, 2007 with 2000 DRU Benchmark. Sacramento, California. Average Household Size The 2000 Census reports that there were 6,450 households in the City, with an average household size of 3.06. Of those households, it is estimated that 76.4 percent were family households, while 17.4 percent were individuals living alone. The balances of the City’s households were comprised of non-family households with one or more occupant. The City’s existing population per household as identified in the 2000 Census (3.06) is comparable when compared to the other three Cities: • City of Corcoran (3.44) • City of Avenal (4.14) • City of Hanford (2.93) Projections According to the State of California Employment Development Department (EDD)¹ , Kings County population is projected to reach 198,700 by the year 2020, a gain of more of 53 percent of current figures. It is anticipated that the majority of population growth will be due to non- institutional population growth. Population growth is anticipated in the fringe areas of Hanford and within Lemoore’s present boundaries on undeveloped sites. The Kings County Association of Governments in conjunction with local jurisdictions (Avenal, Corcoran, Hanford, Lemoore, and Kings County) has developed a Regional Housing Needs Allocation Plan that extends through the year 2008. The plan directs new housing to where adequate infrastructure and public services can accommodate project growth. ¹ Interim County Population Projections, State Department of Finance, June 2001 2007 MSR Page 70 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 5.3 LAW ENFORCMENT The City of Lemoore Police Department consists of 36 full time personnel including twenty-five (25) uniformed officers, and six (6) non-sworn personnel, animal control officer. Most crimes in the City are property-oriented (i.e. theft and vandalism). Normally, the City Standard for police per population is 1.5 officers per 1,000 populations. Indicator of service levels and the need for new personnel and facilities are provided by analysis of the number of service calls, response times, and population growth. In addition, the Police Department reviews proposed development projects and provides the approving agency information regarding impacts of the new development upon law enforcement services. Additionally, a department can use the number of dwelling units and a generation factor of 3-4 person per household to project population increase. Currently, the City of Lemoore and the Lemoore Police Department does not have a criteria or standards in place. The department provides police services to the City with 25 full time officers, who patrol an 8.4 square mile area (or roughly 5,376 acres) 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The Lemoore Police Department is responsible for law enforcement in the annexation area in the City. The staff consists of a Chief of Police (Chief Kimberly G. Morrell) and the departments’ seven (7) program areas which include; Support Services, Records, Communications, Department Chaplain, Operations, Narcotics Task Force, Traffic Enforcement, School Resources Officer Program, and the Community Services Program. Currently, there are no plans for capital improvements for additional services, the Department and the City is evaluating long-term needs in the West Hills Collage area. Lemoore Court System The Superior Court of the State of California Kings County serves the City of Lemoore, Avenal, Corcoran, and Hanford. The Superior Court of the State of California, County of Kings is located at the Kings County Government Center, 1400 W. Lacey Blvd., Hanford, CA. 5.4 FIRE STATION The City of Lemoore Volunteer Fire Department (LVFD) has operated as an all volunteer department since 1921. The LVFD provides fire protection services, including; fire inspection services, tours and demonstration. The LVFD has a mutual services agreement with Kings County Fire, Hanford City Fire and the Lemoore Navel Air Station. The City is served from Stations 1 and 2, located within the City. The Station is listed below in Table 5.F. 2007 MSR Page 71 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Table 5.F: LVFD, Fire Station Station Equipment Personnel 1-Chief 2 Engines (Class A) 2-Assistant Chiefs LVFD 1 lightweight truck/reserve truck 4-Crew Captains 210 Fox Street Ambulance service 7-Engineers Lemoore CA 2 pumps (1 - 1,000 gm & 2 - 2,250 gpm) 11-EMTs 1 Patrol Vehicles (type 3) 1-Secretary 1-Maintenance Crew In addition to fire protection services, the Lemoore Fire Department provides (this is provided by the Community Development Department, Public Education and Awareness Services, and Fire Suppression Division. Additional Services Include: • Fire suppression and rescue • Emergency medical services • Hazardous materials mitigation and regulation • Emergency prevention and public education efforts • Technical rescue • Rescue/hazardous materials unit Currently, no capital improvements are being considered in the next two years. 5.5 WATER SUPPLY / DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM The City of Lemoore Public Works is responsible for providing water and wastewater utility services to residents. Lemoore relies totally on groundwater for its domestic use. The City is currently operating 10 groundwater wells. The well capacities are shown in Table 5.G. In 2006 the City of Lemoore pumped 7,064.0 acre-feet of water. It is estimated that an average water demand for 2030 will be 12.2 –million gallons per day (mgd). As table 5.G shows, the described wells have the capacity to pump 19.2 mgd, accordingly, the Public Works Department do not have any concerns in meeting future demands. Water conveyed from wells to four ground-level storage reservoirs with a total capacity of 4.4 million gallons and delivered to consumers through a pipe system. The City’s main water distribution plant is located along G Street west of Lemoore Avenue. Currently, the City maintains a secondary water supply system which feeds the industrial needs to SK Foods for their tomato processing plant. Even though the City maintains two independent water systems, in the event of an emergency, the two systems can be combined. 2007 MSR Page 72 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Table 5.G Water Well Capacity Summary Well City of Lemoore Well Capacity Summary Number Million Gallons per Day (mgd) 2 3.02 4 3.17 5 3.17 7 1.73 8 1.15 9 1.15 10 2.88 11 1.44 12 1.44 TOTAL 19.15 City of Lemoore, Urban Water Management Plan, 2005 Historically, much of the southern San Joaquin Valley drained into the Tulare Lake Basin located in Central Kings County. Although the lake bed has been reclaimed for agricultural purposes, it still revives surface flows from the South Fork of the Kings River and other local channels, particularly under high flow conditions. Groundwater The groundwater basin underlying the City is the Tulare Lake Basin, which is part of the Tulare Hydrologic Region within the San Joaquin Valley. The total storage capacity of Tulare Lake Sub-Basin is 17,100,000 acre-feet (ac-ft) to a depth of 300 feet and 82,500 acre feet to the base of fresh groundwater. The Kings basin is located below both the Kings County and Tulare County and serves the communities of Lemoore, Tulare, Visalia, Hanford, Corcoran, and small communities throughout Kings and Tulare County. The Tulare lake Hydrologic Region contains multiple interconnected sub-basins that transfers, filter, and store water. These basins consist of the Kings, Kern, Kaweah, Tulare Lake, Tule, Westside, and Pleasant Valley groundwater basin. The Tulare Lake Groundwater Basin is not adjudicated groundwater basin, as defined by the California Water Plan Update, Bulletin 160-98. The City of Lemoore 2005 Urban Water Management Plan (February 2006) reports the 1995 Level Overdraft for the Tulare Lake Region at 820 thousand acre-feet (taf). Groundwater overdraft is expected to decline to 670 taf during the 2020 average and drought years. During drought years these levels normally decline, and during wet years most basins recover. Groundwater Quality New Federal Arsenic Minimum Containment Level (MCL) of 0.010 milligrams per liter were established by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) went into effect 2007 MSR Page 73 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 January 2006. The State of California is in the process of developing and adopting new standards for levels of arsenic containments in drinking water. The EPA has the enforcement authority for new Federal Arsenic MCL until California regulations are adopted. The City of Hanford has been given notice by the California Department of Health Services that the criteria for compliance be identical to the rules outlined in the federal Register for the arsenic MCL. The City of Lemoore has adopted an Arsenic Reduction Study which identifies actions to be taken by the City of Lemoore in attempts to meet the new Federal Arsenic Standards. The City Council has directed City Staff to proceed with the implementation of the recommendations identified in the Arsenic Reduction Study. The City of Lemoore is implementing a plan for reducing Arsenic in its groundwater supply system. The intent of the plan is to monitor and meet EPA’s maximum contaminant levels (MCL) of 0.0010 mg/L. The plan is divided into three phases (table 5.G), provides for the abandonment of four wells, replacement of six wells and rehabilitation of three wells. Although arsenic occurs naturally in groundwater in and near Lemoore, four wells produce water or have produced water that has exceeded the MCL for arsenic. The existence of hydrogen sulfide and watercolor are also an accruing problem within the City’s well system. Distribution System and Water Use The City of Lemoore (City) currently utilizes local groundwater. The City’s municipal water system obtains its water supply from underground aquifers. The City pumps groundwater from 12 wells throughout the City. The City’s pumping capacity is currently 19.15 million gallons a day (MGD), according to the City of Lemoore 2005 Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP). Water is transported from wells to the consumers through the City’s distribution system (pipe sizes range from 2- and 24 inches in diameter). The City currently maintains four storage reservoirs within the service area for a total capacity of 2.8 million gallons (mg). Reservoirs include a small elevated tank, one ground level storage reservoir, and two 1-million gallon tanks constructed in October, 2005. The City of Lemoore water customers include residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional groups. A City ordinance passed in 1976 dictated the installation of meters on all new customers. The City meters all commercial and industrial users. Table 5.H show the distribution of users and water use in the City. 2007 MSR Page 74 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Table 5.H: Water Use by Customer Type Customer Type Number of Customers Water Use (gpm) Residential Metered 10,235 - Non-Metered 2,809 - Sub-Total 13,044 5,109 Public Authority Metered 301 - Non-Metered 40 - Sub-Total 341 942 Industrial Metered 18 - Non-Metered 0 - Sub-Total 18 132 Commercial Metered 988 - Non-Metered 0 - Sub-Total 988 797 Total 14,391 6,980 Source: City of Lemoore 2005 Urban Water Management Plan. Projected Water Use The City’s 2005 maximum day demand was approximately 12.6 mgd¹, well within the City’s 19.2 mgd supply capacity. Based on the future trends in population obtained from updated General Plan, and the city’s Urban Water Master Plan and the established per capita water consumption rate of 12.6 mgd, the City’s future water requirements were estimated to be 23.5 mgd by 2030 (Table 5.I). By the 2015 to 2030 demand will eventually exceed the maximum supply of 19.2 (for maximum day demand). Table 5.I Current and Projected Water Demand year 2006 2015 2030 Population 23,390 30,050 48,250 Average Day Demand (mgd) 6.3 7.3 10.5 Maximum Day Demand (mgd) 12.6 15.5 23.5 Source: City of Lemoore 2005 Urban Water Management Plan. Residences are charged a $20 deposit to establish new water service account (refundable after one year). Most houses and apartments are on a metered system, minimum bill of $9.75 for 700 cubic feet. Service fees for each additional 100 cu.ft above the 700 cu.ft. is 0.65 for 701 – 2800 cu.ft., 0.70 for 2801 – 5600 cu.ft., and 0.75 for 5600 cu.ft. and above. ¹ Source: City of Lemoore Waste Water Management Plan 2005, City of Lemoore 2007 2007 MSR Page 75 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 5.6 SANITARY SEWER – WASTEWATER TREATMENT Wastewater Treatment The California Regional Water Quality Control Board (CRWQCB) regulates wastewater treatment and discharge. The City’s sewer system includes approximately 72 miles of sanitary pipelines ranging in size from six to thirty inches in diameter. The influent is fed into 17 pump stations connected to a Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) located along 18 ½ Avenue. The city is currently operating without a permit, and the City would normally operate its treatment and disposal facility under a waste discharge permit issued by CRWQCB. The City of Lemoore’s WWTP discharge capacity is 4.4 million gallons per day (mgd) of treated wastewater effluent. The WWTP consists of four aerated lagoons with floating surface aerators, and two additional ponds used exclusively by Leprino Foods. Influent waste is collected throughout the City via a network of sanitary sewer collection pipelines. Wastewater treated at the WWTP is discharged through a six-mile pipeline to the Westlake Canal. The treated water is used to supplement irrigation of approximately 50,000 acres of animal feed grains and cotton on Westland Farms. Distribution System Lemoore’s system includes 6” to 30” pipes with 12” mains laid out on an approximate one mile grid. Expansion will involve continued looping of lines and expansion of fire flow reserve facilities. The City has determined that there are few systems constraints for future development. The system consists of 2 major sub-systems serving all of the community north of SR 198, two minor sub-systems serving residential and industrial areas south of SR 198. There is planned expansion of the system west of SR 41. Collection System The City’s collection system is composed of Vitrified Clay Pipe (VCP) and Polyvinylchloride (PVC), the described pipe are expected to have the same life duration. Other type of pipe in the City’s system includes; 1,300 linear feet of concrete pipe, and 800 linear feet of corrugated metal pipe. While capacity of the wastewater facility is not an immediate concern, the collection and transportation system appears to have major constraints in various parts of the City’s Planning Area. Sewer and additional hook-up fees are listed in Table 5.J. Table 5.J Sewer and Hook-Up Fees Sanitary Sewer Service $16.50 per residence (per month) Sewer Connection Fee $811.00 per fixture unit (4inch line) $1,038.00 per fixture unit (six inch line) Additional Hook-Up Fee $11.95 2007 MSR Page 76 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 5.7 SOLID WASTE There are no active solid waste disposal facilities within the Planning Area. The Kings Waste and Recycling Authority (KWRA) was formed in September 1998 by agreement between the cities of Lemoore, Hanford, Corcoran, and the County of Kings in order to provide a regional approach to all waste management activities in the Kings County. Solid waste from the City of Lemoore is transported to the Kings County Waste and Recycling Authority (KWRA) Materials Recovery Facility in Hanford. The existing KWRA landfill southeast of the City of Hanford was closed in 1998. KWRA does not operate an active landfill. Waste is hauled by transfer trucks from the Material Recover Facility (MRF) to the State permitted Chemical Waste Management Landfill site in Kettlemen Hills (45 miles southwest of the MRF). The landfill is inspected on a monthly basis. The permitted capacity is 4,200,000 million cubic yards and remaining capacity is 1,901,860 million cubic yards. The permitted throughput tons/day and the estimated closure date of the landfill is 2010. Residential customers pay a flat rate for services, and commercial rates are based on size of pickups per week. Table 5.I lists all permitted and active landfills in Kings County. Table 5.J compares City of Lemoore’s solid waste rates with those of nearby jurisdictions within Kings County. Table 5.K Permitted and Active Landfills in Kings County Avenal Regional Landfill Chemical Waste Management Inc, Unit B16 Kettleman Hills - B18 Nonhaz Codisposal Table 5.H Monthly Solid Waste Rates City of Avenal City of Corcoran City of Lemoore $15.00 64-gallon 60- gallon container container Residential $25.00 $18.00 96-gallon 90- gallon container container $31.00 $23.00 $65.20 per week 1-cubic yard 1-cubic yard Commercial for a 2- cubic $46.00 $15.50 and yard container 1.5-cubic yard 2-cubic yard $22.50 $68.30 Industrial 3-cubic yard 2-cubic yard $31.25 $88.30 3-cubic yard $131.00 2007 MSR Page 77 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 5.8 STORMWATER DRAINAGE Stormwater drainage is accomplished in the City through a system of curbs and gutters, and a limited number of Stormwater collection lines and Stormwater drainage basins. The Lemoore Canal, a predominate irrigation and drainage feature in the region, runs to the north – south, forming the eastern border of the planning area. Controlled discharge from drainage basins are allowed into designated canals owned and operated by Lemoore Canal & Irrigation Company. Lemoore has relied on surface drainage systems to contain and transport Stormwater run-off. During “normal” storm events drainage systems function at an acceptable level of service. Flood zone mapping prepared by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) indicates that the Planning Area lies outside any major flood prone areas. There are small localized areas within the Planning Area where it is shown to within the 100 year flood plain. Flood inundation from dam failure could potentially occur from Terminus Dam, Success Lake Dam, and Pine Flat Dam (located in the Sierra Nevada east of the valley floor on the Kaweah, Tule, and Kings River). Additional improvements made to other flood control facilities in the Kings County area, has significantly reduced local natural flood hazards. According to the Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) inundation maps for Kings County show that a breech by any of the dams listed above will not affect the City of Lemoore. Through the City’s General Plan, the City Council has adopted runoff/discharge policies that have strict controls to meet the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) for development project. Water features within the review area include rivers, lakes, field and canals which also provide drainage resources for the residents of Lemoore. The Lemoore Canal, one of the larger and well known irrigation and drainage feature in the region, runs to the north- south of the review area. Lemoore Canal and Irrigation Company operates drainage ditch facilities within the city. 5.9 ROADS AND CIRCULATION Direct accesses to the City is provided by State Highway 198 and Highway 41 . Arterials in Lemoore serve as the primary network for traffic flow between Lemoore and Selma to the north and Corcoran to the South (table 5.I). They typically have no less than a 100-foot right-of-way and connected areas of major traffic generation within the urban areas, county roads, and state highways. They are intended to connect arterials with local streets and activity centers. Local streets provide direct access to abutting properties and for localized traffic movements within residential, commercial, and industrial areas. Investigation of current traffic volumes on the County facilities revealed no urban levels of traffic. 2007 MSR Page 78 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Table 5.I City of Lemoore “Major” Roadways Highway-Freeways State Highway 198 State Highway 41 Arterials Roadways Hanford Armona Road Lacey Boulevard Houston Avenue Jackson Avenue Iona Avenue 18th Avenue 16th Avenue 17th Avenue Collectors Idaho Street 14th Jackson Avenue 15th Jersey Avenue 13th Java Street 12th Kent Street 11th Transit Services The City of Lemoore and surrounding areas provide and are served by a number of public, private, and social service transportation organizations. The following provide a general overview of these services. Kings Area Rural Transit (KART), which is the jurisdiction of the Kings County Public Works Department and is the largest provider of public transit services within Kings County. KART serves the transit need throughout Kings County as well to residence in adjacent counties. The fixed route provides transit service between the cities of Avenal, Armona, Lemoore, the Lemoore Navel Air Station, Visalia, Corcoran, Stratford, Kettleman City, and Hanford, which is the KART hub for the County. As shown on Figure 5.2, the route is triangular and is estimated to serve 47,000 riders per month. KART currently operates Monday through Saturday. KART does not operate on Sundays or holidays. Departures from Hanford to Lemoore occur at 6:45 am, 12:45 pm, 2:00 pm, 5:15 pm; arrivals from Hanford occur at 7:45 am, 12:35 pm, and 5:15 pm. The fixed route service costs $4.00 for adults and $2.00 for youths (ages 7-12). Trips within the City are $1.50; monthly passes for the Hanford to Lemoore Route may be purchased for $60.00. KART also provides Dial-A-Ride services for residents traveling more than ½ mile from an existing bus route or for those riders certified by KART as disabled. Dial-A-Ride (door to door) service is available on Monday through Friday between 11:00 am and 1:30 pm. All rides from home must be scheduled one day in advance. Private Transportation Private transit Services are provided in Lemoore (Kings Cab Company). Orange belt Stages provide east/west bus services (from Hanford), and offers a daily scheduled bus service four 2007 MSR Page 79 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 times a day to Goshen and Visalia, one bus per day to Paso Robles and Fresno. Greyhound provides the link to the coastal communities and northern and southern destinations. Existing Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities Lemoore has adopted a comprehensive bicycle plan as part of the 2005 County Regional Bike Plan. The bikeways may be bike paths, bike lanes or bike routes. Bike paths provide for bicycle travel on a right-of-way completely separated from street or highway. Bike lanes provide for striped lane for one-way travel on a street or highway. Several areas in Lemoore lack adequate pedestrian facilities, currently the City’s General Plan and Bicycle Plan promotes the development of shared use roadway systems, and require development consideration be given to new bike and pedestrian facilities on newly developed properties (residential or commercial). Currently Lemoore’s bikeways extend throughout Central Lemoore to the Municipal Golf Course and little league field in the south and out 18th Avenue to the north. Planned bikeways will expand the network further out from central Lemoore to include the West Hills Community College in the west. The Kings County Association of Governments (KCAG) adopted the Kings County Regional Bike Plan in July 1998. The adopted plan provides for connections between major urban and recreational facilities within community. In addition to the provision of bikeway routes, KART provides bike racks on transit vehicles to promote the use of transit and bicycling within urban areas. Rail Currently, Lemoore residents can take a bus to the Amtrak train station in Hanford and take a train to northern or southern California stops. AMTRAK’s San Joaquin route provides passenger with rail services. Currently, several north and south bound trains operate through Hanford each day. The northbound service connects Hanford with the bay Area and Sacramento, while the southbound service connects with Bakersfield and southern California. AMTRAK stops in Corcoran daily, six northbound and six southbound, from 5:54 AM to 10:00 PM. Amtrak provides direct connections from Bakersfield to Stockton/Oakland with feeder bus connections farther north or south. Air Transportation The City of Lemoore relies on Hanford’s Municipal Airport for air transportation services. Currently this is the only publicly owned airport in Kings County. The airport enforces city, state, and federal aviation regulations and administers leases, provides tie-downs, hanger shelters, and overall maintenance. The airport is located at 945 Hanford-Armona Road. The closest commercial air service is located at the Fresno Yosemite International Airport, approximately 56 miles northeast of the City. 2007 MSR Page 80 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Figure 5.2 Fixed Route Transit Service Map 2007 MSR Page 81 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 PARKS The City of Lemoore currently owns and operates 10 neighborhood parks comprising a total of 253.7 acres (Table 5.M). The City’s Parks and Recreation Department is responsible for operations and maintenance. All 10 of the City’s parks are developed. Each of the park sites contains various types of facilities, which are based on the needs of the residents served by the park, park size and geographic characteristics. Specialized recreational facilities (e.g., tennis courts, swimming pool, ball fields) exist at seven of the City’s Facilities. The most common specialized facilities are lighted ball-fields. Regional Parks Facilities There are several regional parks that are within driving distance from Lemoore. There are several parks visited by the residence. Hickey Park, Burris, and Laton-Kingston, others include; Pixley National Wildlife Refuge, located 30 miles south of Lemoore nears the town of Pixley. The Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park (ASHP) is south of the Pixley Wildlife Refuge off of SR 43. The ASHP provides educational tours with audio and video presentations. Camping facilities are open year-round are also provide to visitors. Lake Success provides boating, fishing, camping and picnicking opportunities to residence of Lemoore; located approximately one north Lake Success provides valuable water access. The City’s General Plan lays out the needs of the community, by providing park standards for both community and neighborhood park development (Table 5.L). In development of these standards three factors were considered: population projections for the development, park site development criteria for new facilities including major roadways and school, minimum park size to provide efficient maintenance. Table 5.J: City of Lemoore Park Standards Park Name Park Size (acreage) 19TH Avenue Park 17.8 City Park 3.6 Heritage Park 24.0 Lions Park 10.80 Belevqua Park 9.2 Legacy Park 10.0 Plaza Park 0.2 Rotary Skate Park 2.2 Soccer Complex 28.0 TOTAL 105.8 City of Lemoore, 2007 2007 MSR Page 82 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 School playground equipment, ball fields, play courts and open grass areas meet some community and neighborhood recreational need in nearly all areas of the City. The Lemoore High School District contributes to community recreation needs through use of on-site facilities and programs for adult education, athletics, and social and cultural activities. Community Facilities Included with parks and recreation are the various community facilities located in the City of Lemoore, those include; Senior Center, the Lemoore Teen Center, the Civic Auditorium, City Hall, the Cemetery and Lemoore Branch Library. The majority of the listed facilities are centrally located within Lemoore. 5.10 ANIMAL CONTROL Currently the City of Lemoore provides animal control services to residents. The City runs an animal control and animal shelter services located in Lemoore at 10909 Bonneyview (this is the Hanford address). The City promotes the humane care of animals through education and a humane proactive animal control. 5.11 LIBRARY The King County Library serves the local need of the City of Lemoore. The Lemoore Branch Library is located at 457 C. Street. The library is open Monday through Friday and is closed on Sunday. West Hills Collage Lemoore does provide the students and staff library resources, these services are not extended to the residences of Lemoore. 5.12 DETERMINATIONS FOR THE CITY OF LEMOORE The Service Review guidelines prepared by the State Office of Planning and Research recommend that issues relevant to the jurisdiction be address through written determinations called for in the Act. Based on the above information, following are the written determinations for the City. A. Infrastructure Needs and Deficiencies Purpose: To evaluate the infrastructure needs and deficiencies in terms of supply, capacity, condition of facilities, and service quality. 1. The City of Lemoore decision makers will rely on its General Plan (currently being updated) to provide comprehensive planning guidelines and facility needs through 2030. 2007 MSR Page 83 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 2. The City of Lemoore existing storm drainage infrastructure is limited to a number of collection lines on public roads within the City. These drains have alleviated any flooding problems resulting from storms. 3. Capital needs for the Lemoore Police Department are evaluated on an on-going basis. Indicators of service standards and the need for new personnel and facilities are provided by analysis of the number of service calls, response time, and population growth. While the current facility meets the needs of the City, expansion of the station will be needed to meet the population demands forecasted by the California Department of Finance and the Census Bureau. Additional space will be needed for training, investigative offices, and report writing areas for officers. Currently there are no plans for expanding the existing facility. Maintaining the LOS for personnel will requires significant capital investment for equipment such as vehicles, law enforcement supplies and equipment, additional office space to meet the projected population growth. 4. The City of Lemoore provides fire protection services in the incorporated City territory. The City is served from area stations within the City. The City is also supported by Kings County Fire, and the Lemoore Navel Air Station Fire Departments. 5. Currently, the City does maintain an active Website for public accessibility, thereby providing a higher level of public comments and community participation. B. Growth and Population Purpose: To evaluate services needs based upon existing and anticipated growth patterns and population projections. 1. The Kings County Association of Governments in conjunction with local jurisdictions (Avenal, Corcoran, Hanford, Lemoore, and Kings County) has developed a Regional Housing Needs Allocation Plan that extends through the year 2008. The plan directs new housing to where adequate infrastructure and public services can accommodate project growth. 2. The California Department of Finance has projected the City’s population growth to be higher in comparison to other City’s in Kings County (3.06%) C. Financing Constraints and Opportunities Purpose: To evaluate a jurisdiction’s capability to finance needed improvements and services. 1. The City of Lemoore prepares a comprehensive annual budget that clearly describes the services provided to the residents and the funds expended for those services. 2. The City of Lemoore has incorporated an Economic Development Element within its General Plan. 3. 3% of the land area is designated for commercial/industrial uses. This will be sufficient in generating revenue from taxable sales. This is a positive for the City in financing opportunities. 2007 MSR Page 84 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 4. The City is not a member of the Public Agency Risk Sharing Authority of California and does not benefit from the insurance coverage’s offered at a lower rates. 5. The City of Lemoore has entered into an agreement with the City of Hanford, Kings County Water District and Kings County, with informal support from the Lemoore Navel Air Station, to conduct a study of the possibility of supplementing municipal groundwater supply in the north Kings County area with surface water supplies. D. Opportunities for Rate Restructuring Purpose: To identify opportunities to impact rates positively without decreasing service levels. 1. The City of Lemoore provides its own law enforcement service for the community 2. The City does provide its own fire protection (Volunteer Fire Department), and transit services. 3. The City does have limited opportunity for rate restructuring in regards to water, sewer, and solid waste disposal. E. Opportunities for Shared Facilities Purpose: To identify the opportunities for a jurisdiction to share facilities and resources to develop more efficient services. 1. The City of Lemoore and West Hills College Lemoore, have partnership opportunities in providing shared resources. 2. Potential opportunities or partnering exists with the California Department of Forestry (CDF), as well with various State agencies (i.e. California Department of Transportation, Department of Fish and game, etc.). 3. Lemoore Canal and Irrigation Company and other I.D. W.D. and RCD to help with providing assistance in storm water and groundwater management. F. Government Structure Options Purpose: To consider the advantages and disadvantages of various government structures to provide public services. 1. It is reasonable to conclude that the public services can continue to be provided by the City of Lemoore under existing government structure. G. Evaluation of Management Efficiencies Purpose: To consider the management structure of the jurisdiction. 1. The City’s budget and accounting practices are audited annually by a certified public accountant. 2007 MSR Page 85 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 2. The City is required to submit a quarterly investment report to the City Council for review. 3. The City of Lemoore coordinates very closely with law enforcement and fire protection; although, there would be some benefit incorporating various departments under one “government center” to facilitate with administrative tasks and coordination. H. Local Accountability and Governance Purpose: To evaluate the accessibility and levels of public participation associated with the agency’s decision-making and management processes. 1. The City of Lemoore makes reasonable efforts to maintain a public dialogue within the City Council, Planning Commission meeting forums. In particular, the City has conducted citizen advisory committees and implemented mailings to solicit public comment input when possible. 2. City does provide an active Website for public accessibility, thereby encouraging the level of public comments and community participation. 3. The City complies with the Brown Act provisions for conduct of meetings, provides agendas for public review in advance to hearings. 4. Prior to budget approval, public meetings are conducted to include citizen comments. 2007 MSR Page 86 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 SECTION 6 6.0 ARMONA COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT The Community of Armona receives basic municipal type services directly through the Armona Community Service District (CSD) and other services through the County of Kings. The CSD charges fees for water, refuse services, sewer, and street lighting. They also charge for sewer connections. The following municipal services are discussed within this MSR: • Water Supply • Solid Waste • Sanitary Sewer • Street Maintenance • Law Enforcement and Fire Protection • Lighting 6.1 LOCATION, ADMINISTRATION, MANAGEMENT, AND OPERATIONS Armona is located in Kings County, the central valley of California. As a rural area with a population of 3,239 (California Department of Finance, Census 2000), the community is surrounded by open space and agriculture land. Located adjacent to east of Armona is Hanford, the largest city in the County, with a population of 47,485 (California Department of Finance, Census 2005). Lemoore is approximately 2.5 to 3 miles to the west of Armona with a population of about 22,700 ((California Department of Finance, Census 2005). Established in 1920, the Armona Community Service District provides community services (Water, Sewer, Garbage, and Street Lighting) to the residents of Armona. 2007 MSR Page 87 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Figure 6.1: Armona Boundaries and Facilities (Pre-October 2007) 2007 MSR Page 88 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 6.2 WATER SUPPLY / DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM The Armona Community Service District maintains 1200 water service hookups. The water in Armona is provided by 2 wells that are capable of producing an estimated 1800 gallons of water per minute. The second well in Armona is most commonly used as a supplementary well for the dry season. Water use in Armona has ranged from 177 to 193 million gallons for the last three years, and while the overall use has declined, the reliance on the second well during the summer months has increased. Existing Facilities Currently, water supply facilities include treatment, storage, and booster pumping facilities at well number 1 (Dillon Well) and water storage and booster pumping at well number two (7th Day Well). It is anticipated by the Armona CSD that the water supply facilities are sufficient for the existing population only. Future Facilities To provide adequate service for future growth, the Armona CSD has determined that two additional wells will have to be constructed during the 5th and 6th Benefit periods identified in their Capital Facilities Plan. The Armona CSD has developed plan to construct a new Well (well no. 3) on 2 to 3 lots on an existing residential development. The plan calls for drilling a pilot well to determine water quality conditions. It is anticipated that the production of the described well will be 1,000 gpm. Well Number 3 will provide water to an estimated 1600 residents. It should be noted that it will be likely that a treatment facility will be required for this site. It should be noted that the CSD has purchased a site for future well site development, and because the footprint for the treatment facility has not been developed, the proposed well site may not be fully utilized. Water Quality New Federal Arsenic Minimum Containment Level (MCL) of 0.010 milligrams per liter were established by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) went into effect January 2006. The State of California is in the process of developing and adopting new standards for levels of arsenic containments in drinking water. The EPA has the enforcement authority for new Federal Arsenic MCL until California regulations are adopted. The Armona CSD has determined that there will be the need to construct additional treatment facilities at well No. 2. To treat secondary water quality issues which includes; water color, odor, and iron the CSD will construct treatment facilities that will also address these issues. The State of California is in the process of adopting a new Arsenic MCL that must be as stringent as the Federal MCL. The California Department of Health Services will be coordinating the implementation of the new Federal Arsenic MCL with staff from the EPA Region 9 Office in San Francisco. The EPA will have enforcement authority for the new Federal Arsenic MCL until California regulations are adopted. The City of Hanford has been advised by the California Department of Health Services that the criteria for compliance with the anticipated new State 2007 MSR Page 89 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Arsenic MCL will be identical to the rules outlined in the Federal Register for the Federal Arsenic MCL. Pursuant to the Federal criteria for compliance, water systems will not be in violation of the new Federal Arsenic MCL until one (1) year after quarterly samples have been collected (unless fewer samples would cause the running average to be exceeded). Water Storage The Armona CSD has determined that there is the need for additional water storage in Armona. Water storage facility tank will have to be at least 250,000 gallons before the population exceeds 6,500. The CSD is also considering adding supplemental storage to well No. 2 in the future. Water Distribution - Existing Facilities A water main which was constructed in the summer 2004 and runs along Hanford-Armona Road east of Oak Street. The CSD intended that this water main extension serves as a basis for future water distribution to the eastern portion of the community. The intended benefits include; increase fire flows, providing water to future commercial development, and creating employment opportunities. Water mains previously constructed along Oak Street and 14th Avenue have also identified as necessary to serve future growth in Armona. Infrastructure improvements provide benefits to residents by providing higher pressures and enhanced distribution of emergency flows. Water Distribution - Future Facilities Future water development includes looping of the water mains located in Front Street and in Hanford-Armona Road east of Oak Street. Future water distribution improvements also include; extension of various water mains throughout the community, the development of water supply wells, above ground water tanks (250,000 gallons or greater) and water treatment facilities (see Table 6.A: Armona CSD Proposed Capital Improvements). Table 6.A: Armona CSD Water Capital Improvements Existing Improvements Proposed Improvements Constructed water main along Construction of two additional Oak Street wells Adopted Capital Improvement Construction of additional well Plan and treatment facility (well No.3) The construction of a storage and The purchase of property for the booster facility at Wells 1&2 development of a well and treatment facilities Treatment of secondary water quality issues 2007 MSR Page 90 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 6.3 SANITARY SEWER – WASTEWATER TREATMENT Sewer Collection System The sewer system expansion and wastewater treatment and disposal facilities constructed in 1992 were finance in part by a loan of $203,685 from the water fund. The expansion will provide services to an estimated 1,800 additional people beyond the 3,100 persons used as the original base population. Construction of a residential development includes the construction of a sewer main along Oak Street alignment from Front Street to Hanford-Armona Road. Residents pay $23.75 a month for sewer services, it also should be noted that the Armona Community Service District contracts out for their engineering needs and management of the sewer and water facilities. The CSD is currently preparing a feasibility study to the possible construction of a sewer by-pass pipeline to direct treated water from well No. 1 to the disposal facilities at the wastewater treatment plant. The by-pass pipeline will provided system capacity and wastewater treatment capacity. The CSD has identified several capital improvements in the Armona Community Services District Adopted Capital Facilities Improvement Plan, Fiscal Year 2006/2007. Wastewater Treatment Plant and Disposal Future Facilities The supplemental wastewater treatment and disposal capacity has been reduced (by 800 persons) due to backwashing impacts, pond erosion and continued residential growth. Soils in Armona are generally made up of sand and silt. An ongoing problem experienced by CSD is seepage losses at their wastewater treatment and disposal facilities from existing erosion problems due to wave action. The Armona CSD has concluded that capital improvements consisting of erosion mitigation measures will need to be enacted to better serve existing and future populations. With the likely increase of residential and commercial development, the services demands on the Armona Community Service District have increased. There is a serious need for the expansion of the wastewater treatment and disposal facilities (to a capacity of 0.75 and 1.0 mgd). The expansion would entail an intensive activated sludge processes and would also include tertiary treatment of a percentage of the effluent. Funds for the wastewater and disposal facilities improvements may be available from connection fee revenues. In 2006, the Armona CSD sewer fund had total generated revenue collected from connection fees of $146,531, and the water fund showed a balance of $178,871. The equity balance for the sewer fund was $255,397 and the water fund balance was $840,307. 2007 MSR Page 91 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 6.4 PUBLIC SERVICES Street Lighting Currently the Armona Community Service District installs and maintains 120 street lights in the Community. As residential development continues is anticipated that developer will help offset the installation costs through developer fees. Currently, residents pay $1.00 a month for street lighting in Armona. Solid Waste Currently the Armona Community Service District provides refuse services to the residences of Armona, the CSD contracts with Kingsburg Disposal to collect refuse once a week. Kingsburg Disposal provides 30 gallon trash receptacles to Armona residents, who in turn pay the CSD $7.80 a month for trash pickup service. 6.5 POLICE AND FIRE PROTECTION The Community of Armona has been contracting fire protection services from the Kings County Fire Department (KCFD). The Community is served from the Armona Fire Station #5, located on 14th Avenue; Fire Station #5 has a four-man crew, equipment includes E-5 1999 and a 3D Freightliner pumper. Prior the 1969, the Armona Fire Station shared facilities with the Armona Community Service District Office. As the Fire department grew, it became necessary to construct a new fire station to house staff and larger fire trucks. The Armona Station also provides mutual aid assistance to the City of Hanford. The Station also houses the Armona Volunteer Fire Department Company 5. The Kings County Sheriff’s Department (KCSD) provides law enforcement services for Armona including other non-incorporated communities in Kings County from the department headquarters in Hanford. It should be noted that the KCSD has a substation in Armona; however, due to budget constraints it is not in service. 6.6 SCHOOLS AND PARKS Schools The Armona Union Elementary School District (District) serves the students of the unincorporated Community of Armona. Currently, the District operates two school sites, Armona Elementary, and Parkview Middle School. Armona Elementary School was constructed in 1954, and modernized in 1989; the school is a K-4 elementary with an enrolment of nearly 600 students. The school provides all day kindergarten classes, each grade K-3 has six classrooms, and fourth grade has four classrooms. The school site also provides two special education classes for students with may have learning disabilities. Parkview Middle School serves students in grade five through eight. The School was constructed in 1965, and currently serves 470 students. The School site has a main building and five portable classrooms, playground space, separate playground area for fifth and sixth grades, 2007 MSR Page 92 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 additionally; the school utilizes the Community Center’s gymnasium for larger school activities. In 2004-05, Parkview underwent a major renovation which cost $2,000,000. The Board Meetings are held on the second and fourth Thursday of the month. Meetings are held in the District Office Board Room (Armona Community Center Building) 11115 C Street, Armona at 7:00 p.m. The Board members are elected with the general election and serve a 4 year term. Two members are coming up for re-election in 2008. The Armona Union School District sponsors a K-12 Independent Study Charter school; Crossroads Charter Academy has two learning centers; Armona Learning Center and the Hanford Learning Center. The charter school offers three independent study options for both students and parents. Parks The Armona Community Service District owns and maintains Recreation Park. The park is 6.2 acres and provides two ball fields, parking and open grass space. The park can be used by the public for recreation such as picnicking, exercising, and sports activities. Currently there are no current plans to develop additional park space by the County or the Armona CSD. 6.7 DETERMINATIONS FOR THE ARMONA COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT A. Infrastructure Needs and Deficiencies Purpose: To evaluate the infrastructure needs and deficiencies in terms of supply, capacity, condition of facilities, and service quality. 1. The present land uses in the Community of Armona are largely Low and Medium Density Residential; there are however a few instances of Commercial and Industrial land uses. The land that is within the existing Primary Sphere of Influence is largely built out. 2. Currently Armona CSD water does not meet the State Guidelines for Arsenic. A treatment plant is currently being proposed to be built in the near future. B. Growth and Population Purpose: To evaluate services needs based upon existing and anticipated growth patterns and population projections. 1. It is anticipated that all outlined services will require upgrades and expansions. C. Financing Constraints and Opportunities 2007 MSR Page 93 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Purpose: To evaluate a jurisdiction’s capability to finance needed improvements and services. 1. The Armona Community Service District (ACSD) prepares a comprehensive annual budget that clearly describes the services provided to the residents and the funds expended for those services. 2. 9.6% of the land area is designated for commercial and 8.5% for industrial uses. This will be sufficient in generating revenue from taxable sales. This is a positive for the ACSD in financing opportunities. 3. Minimal economic growth activity over the last decade appears to have impacted the ability of Armona CSD to serve or provide community needs. The community lacks basic services and lack employment opportunities for residents. 4. Waterways in Armona currently have a 100-foot buffer designated, and should be considered as a constraints due to potential environmental impacts to development on water quality and riparian habitat. 5. Seventy-four parcels within the CSD are vacant or underutilized and consider developable, parcels under the Williamson Act contracts which restricts the land use to agriculture and open space designations should be considered development constraints. D. Opportunities for Rate Restructuring Purpose: To identify opportunities to impact rates positively without decreasing service levels. 1. Armona CSD does have limited opportunity rate restructuring in regards to water, sewer, street lighting and solid waste disposal. Although, the community of Armona has received funds from “developer fees” from residential development. E. Opportunities for Shared Facilities Purpose: To identify the opportunities for a jurisdiction to share facilities and resources to develop more efficient services. 1. The Armona Union School District and Crossroads Charter Academy have partnership opportunities in providing shared resources. 2. Potential opportunities or partnering exists with the California Department of Forestry (CDFG), as well with various State agencies (i.e. California Department of Transportation, Department of Fish and game, etc.). 2007 MSR Page 94 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 F. Government Structure Options Purpose: To consider the advantages and disadvantages of various government structures to provide public services. 1. It is reasonable to conclude that the public services can continue to be provided by the Armona Community Service District. G. Evaluation of Management Efficiencies Purpose: To consider the management structure of the jurisdiction. 1. The CSD’s budget and accounting practices are audited annually by a certified public accountant. 2. The CSD is not required to submit a quarterly investment report to the Board for review. 3. The CSD and Kings County coordinates very closely with law enforcement and fire protection; although, there would be some benefit incorporating various departments under one “District Office” to facilitate with administrative tasks and coordination. 4. The Armona Community Service District contracts Granger Water Specialties to manage the Water and wastewater facilities for the District. H. Local Accountability and Governance Purpose: To evaluate the accessibility and levels of public participation associated with the agency’s decision-making and management processes. 1. The Armona Community District makes reasonable efforts to maintain a public dialogue within the Community by providing and office hours for the residents can visit and receive information. 2. CSD does not provide an active Website for public accessibility, thereby limiting the level public comments and community participation. 3. The CSD complies with the Brown Act provisions for conduct of meetings, provides agendas for public review in advance to hearings. 4. Prior to budget approval, Board meetings are open to the public, and meetings are conducted to include citizen comments. 2007 MSR Page 95 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 SECTION 7 7.0 HOME GARDEN COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT The Home Garden Community Service District (CSD) provides basic municipal type service directly or through contracts with Kings County. The CSD charges fees for water refuse services, sewer, and street lighting. They also charge for sewer connections. The following municipal services are discussed within this MSR: • Water Supply • Solid Waste • Sanitary Sewer • Street Maintenance • Law Enforcement and Fire Protection • Lighting 7.1 LOCATION, ADMINISTRATION, MANAGEMENT, AND OPERATIONS The Community of Home Garden is located in Kings County, the central valley of California. As a rural area with a population of 1,702 (Census 2000), the community is surrounded by open space and agriculture land. Located adjacent to and north of Home Garden is Hanford, the largest and closest city just miles away, with a population of 47,485 (Department of Finance, Census 2005). Community Service Districts operate under the authority of Government Code Sections 61000 through 61881. Their powers are provided for section 61610. Public Utility Districts operate under authority of Public Utilities Section 15501 through 18050 and their powers are provided for in section 16401. Generally, these districts provide water, sewer, and garbage pickup and in some cases street sweeping, lighting, and parks. Established in 1920, the Home Garden Community Service District provides community services (Water, Sewer, Garbage, and Street Lighting) to the residents of Home Garden. 2007 MSR Page 96 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Figure 7.1: Home Garden Community Services District Boundary and Sphere (Pre- October 2007) 2007 MSR Page 97 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 7.2 WATER SUPPLY / DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM Water Supply The Home Garden Community Service District maintains 1,255,000 gallons per day (at full capacity) water service hookups (1,250 households with development). The water in Home Garden is provided by 2 wells that are capable of producing 1.5 million gallons of water per day. Currently, the CSD maintains one standby well that is out of service due to exceeding the Federal Arsenic Minimum Containment Levels (MCL). Water use in Home Garden average is 114.17 million gallons for the last four years, and during the hottest month usage has been 17.25 million gallons. Storage Facilities Currently, water supply facilities include five storage tanks (2-20,000 gallon tank, and 3-5,000 gallon tank), and booster pumping facilities. It is anticipated by the Home Garden CSD that the water treatment facilities for outlined wells will be sufficient for water supply for 1,466 residences beyond the base population. Water Quality New Federal Arsenic Minimum Containment Level (MCL) of 0.010 milligrams per liter were established by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) went into effect January 2006. The State of California is in the process of developing and adopting new standards for levels of arsenic containments in drinking water. The EPA has the enforcement authority for new Federal Arsenic MCL until California regulations are adopted. The Home Garden CSD has determined that there will be the need to construct an Arsenic Water Treatment Facilities to meet Federal Standards. In addition, to treat secondary water quality issues this includes; water color, odor, and iron. The District anticipates once the arsenic removal process is completed, the new facility will be designed for a maximum flow of 1,300gallons per minute. This will be an adequate capacity to supply all current users and the possible new connections. Individual connections that are within the Districts boundaries which are not new subdivision will be entitled to connect to the District’s water distribution system on condition that it will pay an impact fee for new construction of $2,500 per unit or the impact fee that is adopted in the developer’s agreement. Water Storage The Home Garden CSD maintains five storage tanks within the service area, the number storage capacity of the tanks are as follows; 2-20,000 gallon tanks, and 3-5,000 gallon tanks. Water Distribution - Existing Facilities Home Garden water supply is transported through a water main which runs along Garner Road east of 10th Avenue. The CSD relies on this water main extension to serve as a basis for future water distribution to the western portion of the community where new development is likely to accrue. The intended benefits include; increase fire flows, providing water to future commercial development, and creating employment opportunities. 2007 MSR Page 98 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Water Distribution - Future Facilities Future water development includes the construction of an arsenic treatment facility, which will also provide additional water supplies for the Community. The Home Garden CSD anticipates that an additional 1,300 gpm (1,466 households) will accommodate future growth (see Table 6.A: Home Garden CSD Proposed Capital Improvements). Table 7.A: Home Garden CSD Water Capital Improvements Existing Improvements Proposed Improvements Construction of an Arsenic Treatment Facility Treatment of secondary water quality issues 7.3 SANITARY SEWER – WASTEWATER TREATMENT The Community of Home Garden does not provide or maintain the sewer infrastructure for the Community. Also, the CSD only is responsible for fee collection for lighting services; PG&E is responsible for maintenance and new installations for the Community. 7.4 PUBLIC SERVICES FEES Street Lighting Currently the Armona Community Service District installs and maintains 120 street lights in the Community. As residential development continues is anticipated that developer will help offset the installation costs through developer fees. Currently, residents pay $1.00 a month for street lighting in Armona. Solid Waste Currently the Home Garden Community Service District provides refuse services to the residences of Armona, the CSD contracts with Kingsburg Disposal to collect refuse once a week. Kingsburg Disposal provides 30 gallon trash receptacles to Armona residents, who in turn pay the CSD $7.80 a month for trash pickup service. Sewer Collection System Currently the City of Hanford provides sewer services to the Community of Home Garden; the Home Garden Community Services District collects service fees for the City. The current services fees are $19.20 monthly. Water Services The CSD provide water services throughout the Home Garden Community area, the current fee of $35.50 is charged monthly. 2007 MSR Page 99 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 7.5 POLICE AND FIRE PROTECTION The Community of Home Garden has been contracting fire protection services from the Kings County Fire Department (KCFD). The Community is served from the Home Garden Fire Station #5, located on 14th Avenue; Fire Station #5 has a four-man crew, equipment includes E-5 1999 and a 3D Freightliner pumper. Prior the 1969, the Home Garden Fire Station shared facilities with the Home garden Community Service District Office. As the Fire department grew, it became necessary to construct a new fire station to house staff and larger fire trucks. The Armona Station also provides mutual aid assistance to the City of Hanford. The Station also houses the Armona Volunteer Fire Department Company 5. The Kings County Sheriff’s Department (KCSD) provides law enforcement services for Armona including other non-incorporated communities in Kings County from the department headquarters in Hanford. It should be noted that the KCSD has a substation in Armona; however, due to budget constraints it is not in service. 7.6 SCHOOLS AND PARKS Schools The Gardenside Elementary School serves the students of the unincorporated Community of Home Garden. Currently, the Lakeside Union Elementary District operates one school site. Home Garden Elementary School is a K-3 elementary with an enrolment of nearly 194 students. The school is staffed with 12 teachers and a handful of administrative and facilities support staff. Gardenside also provides hot lunches at a reduced charge, and depending on the family’s economic status, lunch service fees may be waived. Parks Currently, the Home Garden Community Service District does not maintain any park land within the community area. It is not currently anticipated that a park facility will be constructed in the Home Garden area in the near future. It should be noted that the Gardenside School playground facilities are closed to public use. 7.7 DETERMINATIONS FOR THE HOME GARDEN COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT A. Infrastructure Needs and Deficiencies Purpose: To evaluate the infrastructure needs and deficiencies in terms of supply, capacity, condition of facilities, and service quality. 1. It is anticipated that all outlined services will require upgrades and expansions 2007 MSR Page 100 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 B. Growth and Population Purpose: To evaluate services needs based upon existing and anticipated growth patterns and population projections. 1. Minimal economic growth activity over the last decade appears to have impacted the ability of Home Garden CSD to serve or provide community needs. The community lacks basic services and lack employment opportunities for residents 2. Currently, Home Garden can not provide adequate public services to meet the anticipated growth for residential and commercial development. C. Financing Constraints and Opportunities Purpose: To evaluate a jurisdiction’s capability to finance needed improvements and services. 1. The Home Garden Community Service District (HCCSD) prepares a comprehensive annual budget that clearly describes the services provided to the residents and the funds expended for those services. 2. 9.6% of the land area is designated for commercial and 8.5% for industrial uses. This will be sufficient in generating revenue from taxable sales. This is a positive for the CSD in financing opportunities. 3. Minimal economic growth activity over the last decade appears to have impacted the ability of Home Garden CSD to serve or provide community needs. The community lacks basic services and lack employment opportunities for residents. 4. Waterways in Home Garden currently have a 100-foot buffer designated, and should be considered as a constraint due to potential environmental impacts to development on water quality and riparian habitat. 5. Seventy-four parcels within the CSD are vacant or underutilized and consider developable, parcels under the Williamson Act contracts which restrict the land use to agriculture and open space designations should be considered development constraints. D. Opportunities for Rate Restructuring Purpose: To identify opportunities to impact rates positively without decreasing service levels. 1. Home Garden CSD does have limited opportunity rate restructuring in regards to water, sewer, street lighting and solid waste disposal. Although, the community of Home Garden has received funds from “developer fees” from residential development. 2. Currently, the Kings County Planning Agency is preparing the Home Garden Community Plan, in conjunction with the County’s General Plan Update. The 2007 MSR Page 101 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Community Plan will serve as a “Road Map” to future development, including residential, commercial and assist in redevelopment effort within the Community. E. Opportunities for Shared Facilities Purpose: To identify the opportunities for a jurisdiction to share facilities and resources to develop more efficient services. 1. The Gardenside School District is encouraged to creating partnership opportunities in providing shared resources. 2. Potential opportunities or partnering exists with the California Department of Forestry (CDFG), as well with various State agencies (i.e. California Department of Transportation, Department of Fish and game, etc.). 3. The Home Garden CSD and area irrigation districts should look to partnering and cost sharing opportunities to enhance Wastewater and Stormwater facilities improvements. 4. The proximity of Home Garden to the City of Hanford allows for shared facilities opportunities which may lead to areas of sharing for the Community. F. Government Structure Options Purpose: To consider the advantages and disadvantages of various government structures to provide public services. 1. It is reasonable to conclude that the public services can continue to be provided by the Home Garden Community Service District. G. Evaluation of Management Efficiencies Purpose: To consider the management structure of the jurisdiction. 1. The CSD’s budget and accounting practices are audited annually by a certified public accountant. 2. The CSD is not required to submit a quarterly investment report to the Board for review. 3. The CSD and Kings County coordinates very closely with law enforcement and fire protection; although, there would be some benefit incorporating various departments under one “District Office” to facilitate with administrative tasks and coordination. Currently, through the Community planning process, residents of Home Garden has expressed their frustration and disappointment with the level of service provided by Kings County in general. 4. The Home Garden Community Service District manages the water and wastewater facilities for the District. 2007 MSR Page 102 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 H. Local Accountability and Governance Purpose: To evaluate the accessibility and levels of public participation associated with the agency’s decision-making and management processes. 1. The Home Garden Community District makes reasonable efforts to maintain a public dialogue within the Community by providing office hours for the residents can visit and receive information. 2. CSD does not provide an active Website for public accessibility, thereby limiting the level public comments and community participation. 3. The CSD complies with the Brown Act provisions for conduct of meetings, provides agendas for public review in advance to hearings. 4. Prior to budget approval, Board meetings are open to the public, and meetings are conducted to include citizen comments. 2007 MSR Page 103 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 SECTION 8 8.0 KETTLEMAN CITY COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT The Kettleman Community Service District (CSD) provides basic municipal type service directly or through contracts with Kings County and other service providers. The following municipal services are discussed within this MSR: • Water Supply • Solid Waste • Sanitary Sewer • Street Maintenance • Law Enforcement and Fire Protection • Lighting 8.1 LOCATION, ADMINISTRATION, MANAGEMENT, AND OPERATIONS Kettleman City is located in Kings County, the central valley of California. As a rural area with a population of 1,499 (Census 2000), the community is surrounded by open space and agriculture land. Located to the northeast is Lemoore and Hanford, the largest and closest city just miles away, with a population of 47,485 (Department of Finance, Census 2005). Lemoore is approximately 25 miles to the east of Kettleman with a population of about 22,700 (Department of Finance, Census 2005). Kettleman Community Service District provides community services (Water, Sewer, and a Park) to the residents of Kettleman. 2007 MSR Page 104 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Figure 8.1: Kettleman Community Service District (Pre-October 2007) 2007 MSR Page 105 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 8.2 WATER SUPPLY / DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM The water supply in the Community of Kettleman is provided by the Community Service District, the cost of water is the highest here than in any other City or community in Kings County. Currently, there are 335 residential, 25 commercial, and 6 industrial consumers within the CSD. The Kettleman City Community Service District provides approximately 315 acre feet of water per year. There are two active wells that terminate above the Corcoran Clay at a depth of 480 feet. Well No.1 is located on Mudd Street, and produces 220gm. Well number No.2 is located Becky Street, and has a maximum pumping capacity of 400gm. Existing Facilities The Kettleman City Community Service District provides water service to the unincorporated Community of Kettleman City. CSD water supply facilities include treatment, storage, and booster pumping facilities at two wells and water storage. It is anticipated by the Kettleman CSD that the water treatment facilities for outlined wells will be sufficient for approximately 1,500 people beyond the base population; the average per capita water use within the District is 214 gallons per day. Future Facilities The community of Kettleman is currently in the process of collecting money for a new water treatment plant. Kings County is providing $3 million dollars which will be forwarded through the Kettleman City Redevelopment Agency to the Community Service District to fund this project. In addition to the $3 million referenced above Kings County is also donating approximately $2.7 millions worth of water allocation costs for the State's water (900 acre feet of water/year from the California Aqueduct). The location of the site has not yet been decided upon. When this water plant is finished the water supply to the community of Kettleman will be increased from 300 acre feet a year to 900 acre feet a year. The Community Service Districts Engineer estimates that with the Water Treatment Plant in place the Community Service District will be able to provide water service to 375 residential, 31 commercial, and 6 industrial consumers (or approximately 55 additional equivalent dwelling units). In addition to this, the quality of the water will also improve to the federally mandated standards of arsenic to 10ppb. Water Quality New Federal Arsenic Minimum Containment Level (MCL) of 0.010 milligrams per liter were established by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) went into effect January 2006. The State of California is in the process of developing and adopting new standards for levels of arsenic containments in drinking water. The EPA has the enforcement authority for new Federal Arsenic MCL until California regulations are adopted. The Kettleman CSD has detected intermittent traces of benzene in the groundwater pumped from one of the CSD’s well site. In addition, the District has been addressing secondary water quality issues which includes; water color, odor, and iron. Water Storage 2007 MSR Page 106 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Kettleman City water is provided by Kettleman CSD, currently, the CSD maintains three storage facility tanks for residential and commercial use. There are two 160,000 gallon water storage tanks designated for commercial and service industry, the CSD has also designated one 400,000 gallon tank for specifically residential uses. 8.3 SANITARY SEWER – WASTEWATER TREATMENT Sewer Collection System Sewer Services - The Kettleman Community Service District provides sewer service. The current capacity of the sewer infrastructure in Kettleman is .669 mgd however the design average flow rate is .223 mgd. Wastewater Treatment Plant and Disposal Future Facilities Currently, the Kettleman City Service District has no immediate plans for updating or expanding plant facilities. 8.4 PUBLIC SERVICES Street Lighting Kettleman Community Service District does not provide street lighting services to the residence of Kettleman. Currently, Pacific Gas and Electricity (PG&E) provides street lighting services, installation, and maintenance for the community. As residential development continues is anticipated that developer will help offset the installation costs through developer fees. Solid Waste Currently, the Community contracts refuse services from Mid Valley Disposal. Mid Valley Disposal provides 30 gallon trash receptacles to Kettleman residents, who in turn pay $14.45 a month for trash pickup service. 8.5 POLICE AND FIRE PROTECTION The Community of Kettleman has been contracting fire protection services from the Kings County Fire Department (KCFD). The Community is served from Fire Station #9; Fire Station #9 has a four-man crew, equipment includes 1 - 1996 Navistar Engine, 1 - 1986 FMC Engine, 1 - 3D Ford F-450, 1 - Water Tender and Squad Car. In 1995 it became necessary to construct a new fire station to house staff and larger fire trucks. Station #9 also provides mutual aid assistance to the City of Avenal, and responds to many accidents on Interstate 5 corridor through Kings County as well providing mutual aid to Kern and Fresno Counties. The Kings County Sheriff’s Department (KCSD) provides law enforcement services for Kettleman including other non-incorporated communities in Kings County from the department headquarters in Hanford. It should be noted that the KCSD has a substation in Kettleman City. 2007 MSR Page 107 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 8.6 SCHOOLS AND PARKS Schools The Reef-sunset Unified School District (District) serves the students of the unincorporated Community of Kettleman. Currently, the District operates two school sites in the City of Kettleman; Kettleman City Elementary and Adelante High School. Kettleman Elementary School was constructed in 1930; ongoing maintenance ensures school facilities are kept safe and in good working condition and continue to provide adequate space for students and staff. Between 1949 and 1997, additional classrooms and buildings were added to accommodate growth in enrollment. The most recent addition to the campus was a gymnasium which was completed in 2002. In 2006, additional improvements were also conducted. The school is a K-8 elementary with an enrolment of nearly 312 students. The school provides all day kindergarten classes; English Language Leaner Support, Migrant Education Services, and free or reduce- priced lunch. Adelante Continuation High School Middle serves students in grades 11-12. The School was constructed in 1940, and currently serves 6 students. The School site has a main building and five portable classrooms. Adelante Continuation High School offers a flexible learning schedule to complete graduation requirements and explore post-secondary education options. Parks The Kettleman Community Service District owns and maintains Recreation Park. The park is 1.1 acres and provides two ball fields, parking and open grass space. The park can be used by the public for recreation such as picnicking, exercising, and sports activities. Currently there are no current plans to develop additional park space by the County or the Kettleman CSD. 8.7 DETERMINATIONS FOR THE KETTLEMAN COMMUNITY SERVICE DISTRICT A. Infrastructure Needs and Deficiencies Purpose: To evaluate the infrastructure needs and deficiencies in terms of supply, capacity, condition of facilities, and service quality. 1. Currently Kettleman CSD does not meet the State Guidelines for arsenic, and Benzine, also, the City’s groundwater tends to be high in hydrogen sulfide and colored by iron and manganese. A water treatment facility is in the process of being planned to address water quality deficiencies. B. Growth and Population Purpose: To evaluate services needs based upon existing and anticipated growth patterns and population projections. 2007 MSR Page 108 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 1. Currently, the Kings County Planning Agency is preparing the Kettleman City Community Plan, in conjunction with the County’s General Plan Update. The Community Plan will serve as a “Road Map” to future development, including residential, commercial and assist in redevelopment effort within the Community. C. Financing Constraints and Opportunities Purpose: To evaluate a jurisdiction’s capability to finance needed improvements and services. 1. The Kettleman City Community Service District (KCSD) prepares a comprehensive annual budget that clearly describes the services provided to the residents and the funds expended for those services. 2. 9.6% of the land area is designated for commercial and 8.5% for industrial uses. This will be sufficient in generating revenue from taxable sales. This is a positive for the KCSD in financing opportunities. 3. Minimal economic growth activity over the last decade appears to have impacted the ability of Kettleman City CSD to serve or provide community needs. The community lacks basic services and lack employment opportunities for residents. 4. Waterways in Kettleman City currently have a 100-foot buffer designated, and should be considered as a constraints due to potential environmental impacts to development on water quality and riparian habitat. 5. Seventy-four parcels within the KCSD are vacant or underutilized and consider developable, parcels under the Williamson Act contracts which restrict the land use to agriculture and open space designations should be considered development constraints. D. Opportunities for Rate Restructuring Purpose: To identify opportunities to impact rates positively without decreasing service levels. 1. Kettleman CSD does have limited opportunity rate restructuring in regards to water, sewer, street lighting and solid waste disposal. Although, the community of Kettleman has received funds from “developer fees” from residential development. E. Opportunities for Shared Facilities Purpose: To identify the opportunities for a jurisdiction to share facilities and resources to develop more efficient services. 1. The Reef-sunset Unified School District has partnership opportunities in providing shared resources. 2. Potential opportunities or partnering exists with the California Department of Forestry (CDFG), as well with various State agencies (i.e. California Department of Transportation, Department of Fish and game, etc.). 2007 MSR Page 109 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 3. The Kettleman City CSD and area irrigation districts should look to partnering and cost sharing opportunities to enhance Wastewater and Stormwater facilities improvements. F. Government Structure Options Purpose: To consider the advantages and disadvantages of various government structures to provide public services. 1. It is reasonable to conclude that the public services can continue to be provided by the Kettleman City Community Service District. G. Evaluation of Management Efficiencies Purpose: To consider the management structure of the jurisdiction. 1. The KCSD’s budget and accounting practices are audited annually by a certified public accountant. 2. The KCSD is not required to submit a quarterly investment report to the Board for review. 3. The KCSD and Kings County coordinates very closely with law enforcement and fire protection; although, there would be some benefit incorporating various departments under one “District Office” to facilitate with administrative tasks and coordination. H. Local Accountability and Governance Purpose: To evaluate the accessibility and levels of public participation associated with the agency’s decision-making and management processes. 1. The Kettleman City Community District makes reasonable efforts to maintain a public dialogue within the Community by providing office hours for the residents can visit and receive information. 2. KCSD does not provide an active Website for public accessibility, thereby limiting the level public comments and community participation. 3. The KCSD complies with the Brown Act provisions for conduct of meetings, provides agendas for public review in advance to hearings. 4. Prior to budget approval, Board meetings are open to the public, and meetings are conducted to include citizen comments. 2007 MSR Page 110 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 SECTION 9 9.0 STRATFORD PUBLIC UTILITY DISTRICT The Stratford Public Utility District (SPUD) provides basic municipal type service directly or through contracts with Kings County and other service providers. The following municipal services are discussed within this MSR: • Water Supply • Solid Waste • Sanitary Sewer • Street Maintenance • Law Enforcement and Fire Protection • Lighting 9.1 LOCATION, ADMINISTRATION, MANAGEMENT, AND OPERATIONS The town of Stratford is located in Kings County, approximately 40 miles south of Lemoore California. As a rural area with a population of 1,250 (Census 2000), the community is surrounded by open space and agriculture land. Located to the east is Lemoore and Hanford, the largest and closest city just miles away, with a population of 47,485 (Census 2005). Lemoore is approximately 20 miles to the east of Kettleman with a population of about 22,700 (Census 2005). The Stratford Public Utility District (SPUC) provides community services (Water, Sewer, and a Park) to the residents of Stratford. The storm drain infrastructure is provided by Kings County. The water infrastructure in Stratford consists of a water distribution system with three wells, a sewer collection system, sewer treatment plant, and storm drain system. 2007 MSR Page 111 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Figure 9.1: Stratford Public Utility District (Pre-October 2007) 2007 MSR Page 112 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 9.2 WATER SUPPLY / DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM The Stratford Public Utility District operates a water distribution system. The existing infrastructure of the water distribution system consists of approximately 300 metered service connections, 4 inch and 6 inch diameter asbestos cement piping, and approximately 65 existing fire hydrants. There are currently 3 existing wells in Stratford (wells 5, 6, and 7). Well No.5 is producing 500 Gallons (gpm), Well No. 6 is producing 650 gpm and Well No. 7 is currently non- operational due do sand clogging but has an approximate production rate of 550 gpm when in use. Currently, the SPUD maintains a water storage tank that has a storage capacity of approximately 30,000 gallons. Existing Facilities Currently all water produced from wells is chlorinated at the well head prior to entry into the distribution system. The existing infrastructure of the water distribution system consists of approximately 300 metered service connections, 4 inch and 6 inch diameter asbestos cement piping, and approximately 65 existing fire hydrants. The existing water distribution system is currently operating under the State Department of Health Services Water Permit No. 1610006. Water quality is further analyzed in 2005 Annual Drinking Water Quality Report dated July 1, 2006. The SPUD continues to monitor water quality of existing water supply. Future Facilities At this time the Stratford Public Utility District has not identified any future improvements to existing facilities. Water Quality New Federal Arsenic Minimum Containment Level (MCL) of 0.010 milligrams per liter were established by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) went into effect January 2006. The State of California is in the process of developing and adopting new standards for levels of arsenic containments in drinking water. The EPA has the enforcement authority for new Federal Arsenic MCL until California regulations are adopted. The Stratford PUD has detected intermittent traces of benzene in the groundwater pumped from one of the PUD’s well site. In addition, the District has been addressing secondary water quality issues which includes; water color, odor, and iron. Water Storage Currently, the SPUD maintains a water storage tank that has a storage capacity of approximately 30,000 gallons. Water Distribution Stratford water supply is transported through approximately 300 metered service connections, 4 inch and 6 inch diameter asbestos cement piping, and approximately 65 existing fire hydrants. Water mains previously constructed along XXX and XXX Avenue have also identified as necessary to serve future growth in Stratford. Infrastructure improvements provide benefits to residence by providing higher pressures and enhanced distribution of emergency flows. 2007 MSR Page 113 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Table 9.A: Existing Water Usage Number of Household Connections 300 Water Supply 1,150 gal/min Water Demand 550 gal/min Storage Capacity 30,000 gal 9.3 SANITARY SEWER – WASTEWATER TREATMENT Sewer Collection System The Stratford Public Utility District operates a Sewer Collection system and Wastewater Treatment Facility. The existing Collection System includes a network of sewer mains, sewer laterals, and associated facilities that collect wastewater from residents and businesses in the town. The collection system brings the wastewater to an existing treatment plant. Currently the system has approximately 300 sewer residential and commercial laterals which collect and ultimately convey an average of 88,500 gallons of wastewater to the treatment plant per day. The wastewater is pumped into aeration ponds located on the treatment plant property. Wastewater Treatment Plant and Disposal The existing wastewater treatment was constructed in the 1930’s and includes a treatment and discharge facility. Currently, the collection system conveys on average 88,500 gallons of wastewater per day to the treatment facility. The wastewater is pumped into aeration ponds located on the plant site. The California Regional Water Quality Control Board Central Valley Region order No. 82-068, based upon plant designed, the plant capacity can support 150,000gal/day. Table 9.B: Existing Wastewater Usage Number of Household Connections 300 Volume of Sewage Processed 85,000 gal/day Permitted Capacity 150,000 gal/day Future Facilities Currently, the Stratford PUC has not identified any future expansion for the wastewater treatment facility. 9.4 PUBLIC SERVICES Storm Drainage Stratford’s existing storm drain system supports approximately 200 acres of developed runoff area that includes the downtown area and surrounding residential neighborhoods. The storm drain system includes some curbed inlets, underground piping, a storm water pump, and storm water main. Runoff is collected in the streets from drain inlets and flows to a pumping station in 2007 MSR Page 114 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 the center of town consisting of three pumps which directs water to the Tulare Canal via a 24 inch force main. During heavy rains, the pumping and convene system operates at full capacity. Street Lighting The Community of Stratford receives street lighting services from Pacific Gas and Electricity (PG&E) services include, installation, and maintenance for the community. As residential development continues to be encouraged it is anticipated that developer will help offset the installation costs through developer fees. 9.5 FIRE AND POLICE PROTECTION Fire A fire protection service is provided by the Kings County Fire Department (KCFD). The Community is served from Fire Station #10; Fire Station #10 has a two-man crew, along with a 10 volunteer firefighters. Police The Kings County Sheriff’s Department (KCSD) provides law enforcement services for Stratford including other non-incorporated communities in Kings County from the department headquarters in Hanford. It should be noted that the Sheriff’s Department has a sub-station located in Stratford. 9.6 SCHOOLS AND PARKS Schools The Central Union Elementary School District (District) serves the students of the unincorporated Community of Stratford. Currently, the District operates the Stratford Elementary School. The school is a K-8 elementary with an enrolment of 320 students. The school provides all day kindergarten classes; English Language Leaner Support, Migrant Education Services, and free or reduce-priced lunch. The Stratford Elementary School has a 16.9 to 1 Pupil-Teacher Ratio. Currently, Junior High and High School students attend school in Hanford, or Lemoore. Parks Currently, there are no current plans to develop a park space for the residences of Stratford. 9.7 DETERMINATIONS FOR THE STRATFORD PUBLIC UTILITIES DISTRICT A. Infrastructure Needs and Deficiencies Purpose: To evaluate the infrastructure needs and deficiencies in terms of supply, capacity, condition of facilities, and service quality. 2007 MSR Page 115 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 B. Growth and Population Purpose: To evaluate services needs based upon existing and anticipated growth patterns and population projections. C. Financing Constraints and Opportunities Purpose: To evaluate a jurisdiction’s capability to finance needed improvements and services. D. Opportunities for Rate Restructuring Purpose: To identify opportunities to impact rates positively without decreasing service levels. 1. The Stratford PUD does have limited opportunity rate restructuring in regards to water, sewer, street lighting and solid waste disposal. Although, the community of Stratford has received funds from “developer fees” from residential development. E. Opportunities for Shared Facilities Purpose: To identify the opportunities for a jurisdiction to share facilities and resources to develop more efficient services. F. Government Structure Options Purpose: To consider the advantages and disadvantages of various government structures to provide public services. 1. It is reasonable to conclude that the public services can continue to be provided by the Stratford PUD. G. Evaluation of Management Efficiencies Purpose: To consider the management structure of the jurisdiction. 1. The SPUD’s budget and accounting practices are audited annually by a certified public accountant. 2. The SPUD is not required to submit a quarterly investment report to the Board for review. 3. The SPUD and Kings County coordinates very closely with law enforcement and fire protection; although, there would be some benefit incorporating various departments under one “District Office” to facilitate with administrative tasks and coordination. 2007 MSR Page 116 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 H. Local Accountability and Governance Purpose: To evaluate the accessibility and levels of public participation associated with the agency’s decision-making and management processes. 1. The Stratford PUC makes reasonable efforts to maintain a public dialogue within the Community by providing website and/or office hours for residents so they can visit and receive information. 2. The Stratford PUC does not provide an active Website for public accessibility, thereby limiting the level public comments and community participation. 3. The Stratford PUC complies with the Brown Act provisions for conduct of meetings, provides agendas for public review in advance to hearings. 4. Prior to budget approval, Board meetings are open to the public, and meetings are conducted to include citizen comments. 2007 MSR Page 117 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 SECTION 10 10.0 REFERENCES Kings County Director, Bill Zumwalt 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-1 Profile of General Demographics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-2 Profile of Selected Social Characteristics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-3 Profile of General Economics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-4 Selected Housing Characteristics 1993 – Kings County General Plan 2003 -08 – Kings County Housing Element (Avenal, Corcoran and Lemoore) 2005 – Kings County Regional Bike Plan 2002 – Kings County Dairy Element 2006 – Guide to the Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg 2000 – Local Government Reorganization Act of 2002 Table E-5 City/County Population and Housing Estimates for 2000, 2005 and 2006 City of Avenal 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-1 Profile of General Demographics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-2 Profile of Selected Social Characteristics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-3 Profile of General Economics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-4 Selected Housing Characteristics Community Development Director, Steven Sopp 2005 City of Avenal General Plan 1993 Kings County General Plan 2003-08 Kings County Housing Element Table 2:E-5 City/County Population and Housing Department of Finance City of Corcoran Jeri Grant, Planning Director 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-1 Profile of General Demographics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-2 Profile of Selected Social Characteristics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-3 Profile of General Economics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-4 Selected Housing Characteristics 2007 – Corcoran General Plan and Final EIR 2006 – City of Corcoran Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Master Plan 2006 – City of Corcoran 2020 Sewer Master Plan update 2006 – city of Corcoran Master Plan for Storm Drainage 2003-08 – Kings County Housing Element (Avenal, Corcoran, Hanford and Lemoore) 2007 MSR Page 118 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 City of Hanford __________, Director 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-1 Profile of General Demographics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-2 Profile of Selected Social Characteristics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-3 Profile of General Economics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-4 Selected Housing Characteristics 2002 – City of Hanford General Plan update 2002 – City of Hanford Final Environmental Impact Report of the 2002 General Plan Update 2005 – Kings County Regional Bicycle Plan 2005 – City of Hanford Public Review Document Urban Water Management Plan Kings County 2000 – City and Special Districts Inventory 2003-08 – Kings County Hosing Element update (Avenal, Corcoran, Hanford, Lemoore) 1993 – Kings County General Plan City of Lemoore City Manager, Jeff Briltz 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-1 Profile of General Demographics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-2 Profile of Selected Social Characteristics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-3 Profile of General Economics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-4 Selected Housing Characteristics 2006 – Public Draft Lemoore General Plan update “map atlas” 2003-08 – Kings County Housing Element update (Avenal, Corcoran, Hanford, Lemoore) 2001 – City of Lemoore Wastewater Master Plan 2005 – City Council, City of Lemoore Urban Water Plan 1999 – City of Lemoore Storm Drainage Master Plans compilation of various sub-area studies 2005 – Kings County Regional Bicycle Plan Home Garden Community Service District (ACSD) 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-1 Profile of General Demographics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-2 Profile of Selected Social Characteristics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-3 Profile of General Economics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-4 Selected Housing Characteristics 1993 – Kings County General Plan 2002 – Kings County –City and Special Districts Inventory 2005 – Kings County – Regional Bicycle Plan 2007 – Lakeside Union Elementary School District 2007 – Home Garden Community Service Districts statement of water availability 6-12- 07 (FAX from Daniel M. Fadenrecht) 2007 MSR Page 119 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 2007 – Water rates for water, garbage, sewage, and lights (Home Garden Community Service District) 2007 – Updated Services Assessment of Services for Home Garden Community Service District September 5, 2007 Daniel Fadenrecht 2007 – Kings Community Action Organization Headstart – Home Garden Learning Center (mission statement) Armona Community Service District (ACSD) 1993 – Kings County General Plan 2000 – Kings County LAFCO, City and Special District Inventory 2005 – Kings County Regional Bicycle Plan 2000 – Kings Area Rural Transit (KART) Kart bus schedules and route map 1983 – Armona area General (and Zoning Consistency) 2007 – Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) 2007 – Kings County Fire Department information 2007 – Kings County Sheriffs Department information 2006 – Draft Armona Community Planning Study Compilation of Background Information 2007 – Armona 2030 Community Plan 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-1 Profile of General Demographics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-2 Profile of Selected Social Characteristics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-3 Profile of General Economics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-4 Selected Housing Characteristics 2007 – State Water Resources Control Board Wastewater Treatment Facilities Database Division of Clean Water Programs Kettleman City Community Service District (KCCSD) 1993 – Kings County General Plan 2002 – Kings County – City and Special Districts Inventory 2005 – Kings County – Regional Bicycle Plan 2007 – Kettleman City Community Plan 2007 – Reef-Sunset Unified School District School Accountability Report 2005-2006 – National Center for Education statistics 2007 – Kettleman City Branch – Kings County Library 2007 – Kings County Fire Department information 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-1 Profile of General Demographics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-2 Profile of Selected Social Characteristics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-3 Profile of General Economics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-4 Selected Housing Characteristics 2007 MSR Page 120 Local Agency Formation Commission of Kings County Of Kings City and Community District Municipal Service Reviews September 14, 2007 Stratford Public Utility District (SPUD) 1993 – Kings County General Plan 2002 – Kings County – City and Special Districts Inventory 2005 – Kings County – Regional Bicycle Plan 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-1 Profile of General Demographics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-2 Profile of Selected Social Characteristics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-3 Profile of General Economics 2000 – US Census Bureau – Table DP-4 Selected Housing Characteristics 2007 – Kings County Fire Department information 2007 – Stratford Infrastructure Analysis 2007 – Stratford Elementary School information, Central Union Elementary School District 2007 MSR Page 121 BEFORE THE LOCAL AGENCY FORMATION COMMISSION COUNTY OF KINGS, STATE OF CALIFORNIA IN THE MATTER OF ADOPTING ) Resolution No. 07-05 THE 2007 CITY AND COMMUNITY ) DISTRICT MUNICIPAL SERVICE REVIEWS) Re: 2007 MSRs WHEREAS, the Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000 requires each Local Formation Commission (LAFCO) in every County to update spheres of influence every five years pursuant with Section 56425(g); and WHEREAS, on September 26, 2000, AB 2838 (Chapter 761, Statues of 2000), authored by Assembly Speaker Robert M. Hertzberg, was signed into law. Section 56430 of the Government Code now requires that a review of the municipal services provided to the particular area be conducted in order to update any sphere of influence in accordance with Section 56425; and WHEREAS, on July 25, 2005 Local Agency Formation of Kings County Commission initiated the municipal service reviews for all cities and community districts within Kings County; and WHEREAS, the Executive Officer's report, with recommendations, was forwarded to officers, persons, and public agencies as prescribed by law and was reviewed at said meeting; and WHEREAS, on September 26, 2007, this Commission at a Regular Meeting held a duly noticed public hearing concerning the proposed municipal service reviews to hear any and all comments, evidence, or testimony from interested or affected persons; and WHEREAS, the Commission has duly considered the Executive Officer's Report, and the 2007 LAFCO Municipal Service Reviews for Cities and Community Districts. NOW, THEREFORE, THE LOCAL AGENCY FORMATION COMMISSION OF KINGS COUNTY RESOLVED AS FOLLOWS: 1. The Commission finds that: a) The municipal service review (MSR) study is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The municipal service review is Categorically Exempt from CEQA pursuant with Section 15306 of the Guidelines which exempts basic data collection, research, experimental management, and resource evaluation activities which do not result in a serious or major disturbance to an environmental resource. No environmental impacts will result and the Executive Officer is directed to file a Categorical Exemption for this proposal. The MSR review is also covered by the general rule exemption of CEQA, Section 15061b(3) of the CEQA Guidelines that states that CEQA only applies to projects that have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. b) The Commission incorporates by reference the 2007 LAFCO Municipal Service Reviews for Cities and Community Districts. This study, in accordance with Government Code Section 56430, makes written determinations for the municipal service reviews of the City of Avenal, City of Corcoran, City of Hanford, City of Lemoore, Armona Community Service District, Home Garden Community Service District, Kettleman City Community Service District, and Stratford Public Utility District. 2. The Commission adopts and incorporates by reference the 2007 LAFCO Municipal Service Reviews for Cities and Community Districts, as its Statement of Written Determinations for all Cities and Community Districts within Kings County. The foregoing Resolution was adopted upon a motion by Commissioner Wadsworth, seconded by Commissioner Rachford, at a regular meeting held October 24, 2007, by the following vote: AYES: Commissioners Wadsworth, Rachford, Craighead, Thompson, Neves NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None LOCAL AGENCY FORMATION COMMISSION OF KINGS COUNTY _/s/ Joe Neves_______________________ Joe Neves, Chairman WITNESS, my hand this _31st__ day of _October_, 2007. __/s/ William R Zumwalt______________ William R. Zumwalt, Executive Officer cc: City of Avenal City of Corcoran City of Hanford City of Lemoore Armona CSD Home Garden CSD Kettleman City CSD Stratford PUD County of Kings