Environmental ReviewMitigated Determination of Non-Significance
File Number SUB-05-0305-YL
Proponent: Terra Valley LLC
Description of Proposal: Subdivide 10 acres into 41 single family residential lots.
Location of the Proposal: 14947 Longmire Street SE, Tax Parcel #'s 21724340000.
Section/Township/Range: Section 24, Township 17 North, Range 1 East, W.M.
Threshold Determination: The City of Yelm as lead agency for this action has
determined that this proposal does not have a probable significant adverse impact on
the environment. Therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) will not be
required under Section 43.21 C.030 (2)(c) RCW. This decision was made after review of
a completed environmental checklist and other information on file with the lead agency.
This information is available to the public on request.
Conditions/Mitigating Measures: See Attachment A
Lead agency: City of Yelm
Responsible Official: Grant Beck, Community Development Director
Date of Issue: November 14, 2005
ine: November 28, 2005
ember 5, 2005
Grant B k, Community Development Director
This Mi ~ ated Determination of Non-Significance (MDNS) is issued pursuant to Section 197-11-340 (2)
. Comments must be submitted to Tami Merriman, Community Development Department, at City of
Yelm, 105 Yelm Avenue West, P.O. Box 479, Yelm, WA 98597, by November 28, 2005, at 5:00 P.M.
The City of Yelm will not act on this proposal prior to December 5, 2005, at 5:00 P.M.
You may appeal this determination to the Yelm Hearing Examiner, at above address, by submitting a
written appeal no later than December 5, 2005 at 5:00 P.M. You should be prepared to make specific
factual objections. Contact Grant Beck, Community Development Director, to learn more about the
procedures for SEPA appeals. This MDNS is not a permit and does not by itself constitute project
approval. The applicant must comply with all applicable requirements of the City of Yelm prior to
receiving construction permits which may include but are not limited to the City of Yelm Comprehensive
Plan, Zoning Code (Title 17 YMC), Critical Areas Code (Chapter 14.08 YMC), Stormwater Drainage
Design and Erosion Control Manual, International Building Code, Critical Areas Regulations (Title 14
YMC), Road Design Standards, Platting and Subdivision Code (Title 16 YMC), and the Shoreline Master
Program.
DO NOT PUBLISH BELOW THIS LINE
Published: Nisqually Valley News, November 18, 2005
Posted in public areas: November 15, 2005
Copies to: All agencies/citizens on SEPA mailing list and adjacent property owners
Dept. of Ecology w/checklist
Attachment A
Mitigated Determination of Non-Significance
SUB-05-0305-YL
Findings of Fact
1. This Mitigated Determination of Non Significance is based on the project as
proposed and the impacts and potential mitigation measures reflected in the
following environmental documents:
/ Environmental Checklist (September 19, 2005, SCA Consulting Group)
/ Preliminary Drainage and Erosion Control Report (September 2005, SCA
Consulting Group)
/ Addendum to Tahoma Terra Residential Development Transportation Impact
Study dated February 25, 2005 (August 2005, Transportation Engineering
Northwest)
2. The environmental documents indicate that the property is composed of soils and
substrates that are suitable for building and for stormwater infiltration. There is no
indication that there are any potential significant impacts to the earth (geology,
topography, soils).
3. There is no indication in any of the environmental documents that there will be any
potential long-term significant impacts to air quality from the proposed development.
4. The City of Yelm is identified as a Critical Aquifer Recharge Area, a designated
environmentally sensitive area. Potential Impacts to groundwater quality and
quantity will be mitigated through measures that meet or exceed the standards in the
1992 DOE stormwater manual as adopted by the City of Yelm. In addition, the east
and south portion of the property is identified by Thurston County as a potential high
groundwater flooding buffer area. Thurston County, in other areas of the County
that are potential high groundwater flooding areas, indicates in the Interim Site
Development Standards for New Development in Salmon Creek Basin that if there is
more than six feet of separation between the level of the high groundwater and the
bottom of any infiltration gallery, the project should be designed to the effective
drainage manual.
The City has adopted the 1992 Department of Ecology Drainage Design Manual,
which requires that stormwater generated from a development be treated for oils,
sediments, and heavy metals before infiltration.
5. The south and east portion of the site is identified by Thurston County as including a
potential Oak Stand Habitat which is a Department of Fish and Wildlife priority
species.
6. Chapter 14.12 YMC requires the dedication of open space for all residential
development. Section 14.12.050 YMC lists four (4) attributes for qualification of
open space.
Attachment A MDNS (SUB-05-0305-YL)
7. The environmental documents do not identify a potential significant impact related to
the use of energy or natural resources.
8. The environmental checklist indicates noise generated from vehicles will be minimal.
9. The City of Yelm has adopted a concurrency management system as required by
the Growth Management Act. Chapter 15.40 YMC (concurrency Management) is
designed to ensure that the improvements required to support development are
available at the time of development. A concurrency determination may be issued
for a proposal as it relates to transportation issues when: the development provides
on-site frontage improvements; the project makes off-site improvements as
necessary to provide for the safe movement of traffic; and the project makes a
contribution to projects identified the six-year transportation improvement program in
the form of a Transportation Facilities Charge.
10.The Growth Management Act at Section 36.70.070 (6)(b) RCW states that a finding
of concurrency can be issued when required improvements are in place at the time
of development or that a financial commitment is in place to complete the
improvements or strategies within six years.
11. Chapter 16.16 YMC requires that the layout of streets provide for continuation of
streets existing in adjoining subdivisions. The project provides a future street
connection to the west.
12. Section 16.16.050 (YMC) states that lots within a residential subdivision shall be
designed so that lots adjacent to arterial and collector streets are not allowed direct
access.
13.The traffic impact analysis (TIA) submitted as part of the application indicates that
the project will generate an average of 410 vehicle trips per day, with a PM peak of
41 vehicles per hour. The TIA indicates that, with average growth:
14. Section 14.04.055 YMC indicates that the principal guide in measuring
environmental impact is consistency with the land use designations of the
comprehensive plan and the development regulations designed to implement the
plan.
15.The checklist indicates that the proposal will not require addition fire or police
protection services.
16. Temporary construction impacts such as noise, light, water quality, and air quality,
are mitigated by requirements of the Zoning Code and Development Guidelines
relating to construction activities.
17. The Yelm School District has adopted a school mitigation requirement based on the
demand that new residential units create for additional school services and facilities.
Additional demands on the school system will be mitigated through the requirement
that the developer enter into a mitigation agreement with the District.
Attachment A MDNS (SUB-05-0305-YL)
Mitigation Measures
1. Prior to final subdivision approval, the developer shall complete the following
transportation improvements:
a. The south half of Longmire Street shall be improved to City Standards for a
Neighborhood Collector along the property frontage.
b. All interior streets shall be improved to City Standards for a Local Access
Residential.
c. The SR 510/Longmire intersection improvement required by the Tahoma
Terra Master Plan Approval shall be completed prior to final plat application
for this subdivision.
d. The interior street shall provide a future street connection to the west.
2. Civil plan submission shall include an updated preliminary stormwater plan that
meets or exceeds the standards in the 1992 stormwater Manual as adopted by the
City of Yelm. The stormwater plan shall include the following elements:
a. The elevation of the bottom of the infiltration gallery shall be a minimum of six
feet above the elevation of the high groundwater area as identified by Thurston
County, and must be 50 feet horizontally, or 2 feet vertically away from the High
Ground water area, which ever distance is less.
b. Individual dry wells are required for roof runoff.
c. The stormwater system shall be designed to accommodate stormwater
generated by required frontage improvements.
3. The applicant shall provide a tree and vegetation plan that identifies and protects
any priority oak species.
4. Temporary erosion control systems to be approved by the City of Yelm.
5. The developer shall provide at least 5% of total acreage as qualified open space.
This shall include the area of the man made pond, and oak habitat species area.
6. The developer shall enter into an agreement with Yelm Community Schools to
mitigate project impacts to the School District.
Attachment A MDNS (SUB-05-0305-YL)
CITY USE ONLY
FEE: $150.00
DATE RECD
BY:
FILE NO.
CITY OF YELM
ENVIRONMENTAL CIiECKLIST
A BACKGROUND
1. Name of proposed project, if any:
Terra Valley
2. Name of applicant:
Terra Valley, LLC
3. Address, phone number and email address of applicant and of any other contact person:
Steven L. Chamberlain slc@slcemail.com
Doug Bloom
Tahoma Terra LLC
4200 6`h Ave SE Suite 301
Lacey, WA 98503
360.493.6002
4. Date checklist prepared:
August 2005
5. Agency requesting checklist:
City of Yelm
6. Proposed timing or schedule (including phasing, if applicable):
Construction to begin immediately after plat and engineering approval is issued.
7. Do you have any plans for future additions, expansion, or further activity related to or
connected with this proposal? If yes, explain.
Yes, the preliminary plat of Tahoma Terra and the off-site road improvements to
Longmire Street are important for this project.
Page 3 ; t r~~
~~
8. List any environmental information you know about that has been prepared, or will be ~~/ ~' ~ ,
prepared, directly related to this proposal ~ ~~% `~1 ~~~
~~. ~~~' I
March 1993 Southwest Yelm Annexation Final Environmental Impact Statement : ~ :~ ~.
June 1992 Southwest Yelm Annexation Draft Environmental Impact Statement ~~ - ~
~°
9. Do you know whether applications are pending for governmental approvals of other
proposals directly affecting the property covered by your proposal? If yes, explain.
Yes, those projects associated with the Tahoma Terra proposal.
10. List any government approvals or permits that will be needed for your proposal, if known.
Environmental assessment, grading plan approval, engineering plan approval and
building plan approval.
11. Give brief, complete description of your proposal, including the proposed uses and the
size of the project and site. There are several questions later in this checklist that ask you
to describe certain aspects of your proposal. You do not need to repeat those answers
on this page.
Preliminary Plat Approval to Construct 41 residential units on a 9.7-acre parcel
12. Location of the proposal. Give sufficient information for a person to understand the
precise location of your proposed project, including a street address, if any, and section,
township, and range, if known. If a proposal would occur over a range of area, provide
the range or boundaries of the site(s). Provide a legal description, site plan, vicinity map,
and topographic map, if reasonably available. You need not duplicate maps or detail
plans submitted with any permit applications related to this checklist.
The project is located at the end of Longmire Street , in section 24, Township 17,
Range 1 East W.M.
Thurston County Assessor's Parcel Numbers: 21724340000
B. ENVIRONMENTAL ELEMENTS
1. EARTH
a. General description of the site (circle one): Flat, rolling, hilly, steep slopes,
mountainous, other:
The property is vegetated with pasture grasses, trees and understory
plants. A residence and farmstead is located on the property. The site can be
characterized as flat to rolling.
b. What is the steepest slope on the site (approximate slope)?
Approximately 8%
c. What general types of soils are found on the site (for example, clay, sand,
gravel, peat, muck)? If you know the classification of agricultural soils,
specify them and note any prime farmland.
The soil type listed for the site in the Soils Survey of Thurston
County, Washington, Sheet 24; Spanaway sandy gravelly loam 0-3.
Page 4
d. Are there surface indications or history of unstable soils in the immediate
vicinity? If so, describe.
There are no indications of unstable soils in the area.
e. Describe the purpose, type and approximate quantities of any filling or
grading proposed. Indicate source of fill.
Grading will be necessary on this site for purposes of building roads,
building pads and stormwater facilities.
In general, we expect there will be approximately 5,000 cubic yards of
material that will be cut, moved, processed and used as fill to balance
the sites earthwork needs. There are no significant physical features,
i.e., hills, rock outcroppings, etc., that will require significant changes in
the overall landscape of the area. Please refer to the Preliminary
Grading and Drainage Plan for details.
f. Could erosion occur as a result of clearing, construction, or use? If so,
generally describe.
There is always the potential of erosion especially during excavation
work. However, due to the topography of the site, all erosion will be
contained on site.
g. About what percent of the site will be covered with impervious surfaces after
project construction (for example, asphalt or buildings)?
Approximately 30%.
h. Proposed measures to reduce or control erosion, or other impacts to the
earth, if any:
The installations of erosion control measures, i.e., silt fences, catch
basin filters, etc., will be installed for purposes of controlling erosion
potential during the excavation phase of construction. Long-term
erosion control measures will involve significant landscaping of all
disturbed areas.
2. AIR
a. What types of emissions to the air would result from the proposal (i.e., dust,
automobile, odors, industrial wood smoke) during construction and when the
project is completed? If any, generally describe and give approximate
quantities if known.
During the project there will be emissions from construction
equipment and construction personnel vehicles. Occasional dust
may be generated by the construction activities as well Following
construction, there will be emissions from automobiles driven by staff
and visitors of the facility.
b. Are there any off-site sources of emissions or odor that may affect your
proposal? If so, generally describe.
Page 5
c.
3.
a.
No there are not.
Proposed measures to reduce or control emissions or other impacts to air, if
any:
Al! equipment used on site during construction will be equipped with
standard emission control devices. if dust is a problem, water trucks
will be used to keep the soil damp.
WATER
Surface:
1) Is there any surface waterbody on or in the immediate vicinity of the
site (including year-round and seasonal streams, saltwater, lakes,
ponds, wetland)? If yes, describe type and provide names. If
appropriate, state what stream or river it flows into.
Yes. The Tahoma Terra sife has some identified wetlands but
the wetland and its protective buffer do not impact the subject
sife. There is also a small, man-made pond on the site that was
excavated by the previous property owner.
2)
3)
4)
!n addition, this property and the surrounding parcels are
located within an aquifer recharge area according to County
Comp. Plan Map M-8.
Will the project require any work over, in, or adjacent to (within 200
feet) the described water? If yes, please describe and attach
available plans.
Yes, the project will be constructing roads and lots within 200
feet of the described waters.
Estimate the amount of fill and dredge material that would be placed
in or removed from surface water or wetlands and indicate the area
of the site that would be affected. Indicate the source of fill material.
None
Will the proposal require surface water withdrawals or diversions?
Give general description, purpose, and approximate quantities if
known.
No it will not
5) Does the proposal lie within
locations on the site plan.
100-year flood plain? If so, note
Referring to the December 1, 9982 Thurston County Flood
Insurance Rate Map (Community-Panel Number 530188 0335 C),
within this proposal there is no 100-year flood plain on site.
~~
. ~~
~~
~ ~~~ ~
Page 6
6) Does the proposal involve any discharges of waste materials to
surface water? If so, describe the type of waste and anticipated
volume of discharge.
There is no waste materials proposed to be discharged to the
surface waters.
b.
Ground:
1) Will ground water be withdrawn, or will water be discharged to
ground water? Give general description, purpose and approximate
quantities, if known.
No groundwater will be withdrawn.
c.
2) Describe waste material that will be discharged into the ground from
septic tanks or other sources, if any (for example: Domestic sewage;
industrial, containing the following chemicals..., agricultural; etc.).
Describe the general size of the system, the number of such
systems, the number of houses to be served (if applicable), or the
number of animals or humans the system(s) are expected to serve.
No waste materials will be discharged to ground water.
Water Runoff (including stormwater): ~„~
1) Describe the source of runoff (including stormwater) and method of `(~~
collection and disposal, if any (include quantities, if known). Where
will this water flow? Will this water flow into other water? If so, ~~' ~~
describe. ,
~~ J (7'
Urban Development runoff will be collected and infiltrated into
the grounds. See Drainage Report ~~
2) Could waste materials enter ground or surface waters? If so,
generally describe.
Not likely with an appropriately designed, approved and
installed stormwater system.
d.
4.
a.
Proposed measures to reduce or control surface, ground and runoff water
impacts, if any:
See detailed storm drainage report and drainage plan.
PLANTS
Check or circle types of vegetation found on the site
_x_ deciduous tree: aldert,_maple aspen, other
_x_ evergreen tre :fir cedar; pine, other
_x shrubs ~\
_x_ grass ~ ~ ~~
_x_ pasture
crop or grain
wet soil plants: cattail, buttercup, bullbrush, skunk cabbage, other
Page 7
water plants: water lily, eelgrass, milfoil, other
other types of vegetation
b. What kind and amount of vegetation will be removed or altered?
Some existing trees and pasture areas will be removed to make room
for roads and home sites.
c. List threatened or endangered species known to be on or near the site.
None identified
d. Proposed landscaping, use of native plants, or other measures to preserve or
enhance vegetation on the site, if any.
All disturbed areas will be re-landscaped with landscaping suitable to
the area.
5. ANIMALS
a. Circle any birds and animals which have been observed on or near the site or
are known to be on or near the site (See Appendix D of Final EIS):
Birds: ~ haw heron agle- son birds ther:
Mammals: ~ deer ear, elk, beaver, other:
Fish: bass, salmon, trout, herring, shellfish, other:
List any threatened or endangered species known to be on or near the site.
None identified
Is the site part of a migration route? If so, explain.
Not to our knowledge
d. Proposed measures to preserve or enhance wildlife, if any:
Retaining native vegetation within the tree tract areas and new
landscaping will provide some habitat opportunities for urban wildlife
species. In addition, approximately .8 acres of open space will be
retained to help preserve wildlife.
6. ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES
a. What kinds of energy (electric, natural gas, oil, wood stove, solar) will be used
to meet the completed project's energy needs? Describe whether it will be
used for heating, manufacturing, etc.
Electricity and natural gas will provide the energy needs of the facility.
b. Would your project affect the potential use of solar energy by adjacent
properties? If so, generally describe.
This project will not affect the potential use of solar energy by adjacent
properties. No structures will be exceeding 35 feet in height.
Page 8
c. What kinds of energy conservation features are included in the plans of this
proposal? List other proposed measures to reduce or control energy
impacts, if any:
The buildings will be designed in compliance with all current energy
efficiency codes. All appliances will be selected with energy
conservation in mind.
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
a. Are there any environmental health hazards, including exposure to toxic
chemicals, risk of fire and explosion, spill, or hazardous waste, that could
occur as a result of this proposal? If so, describe.
No. But, there is always a small potential that fire or a fuel spill could
occur on site during construction.
1) Describe special emergency services that might be required.
No special emergency services other than standard medical
emergency response is expected for this project.
2) Proposed measures to reduce or control environmental health
hazards, if any:
None proposed.
Noise
1) What types of noise exist in the area which may affect your project
(for example: traffic, equipment, operation, other)?
There are no noises in the area that will affect this project.
2) What types and levels of noise would be created by or associated with
the project on a short-term or a long-term basis (for example: traffic,
construction, operation, other)? Indicate what hours noise would come
from the site.
Short-term noise will be generated during construction of the
project. This will primarily be composed of equipment noise
during clearing and grading, and other construction noise while
homes are being built.
3) Proposed measures to reduce or control noise impacts, if any:
Construction will fake place during daylight hours only and will
comply with Yelm requirements pertaining to noise.
8. LAND AND SHORELINE USE
What is the current use of the site and adjacent properties?
Currently, a residence and farmstead is located on the property.
Adjacent properties to the north and west is the previously approved
Page 9
master planned development of Tahoma Terra. Property to the south
is the Nisqually Valley Golf Course and to the east is undeveloped
land.
b. Has the site been used for agriculture? If so, describe.
Yes. Originally the site was used as a cattle farm.
c. Describe any structures on the site.
There is an existing residence that includes a house, and out buildings.
d. Will any structures be demolished? If so, what?
Yes. The existing residence that includes a house, and out buildings
will all be removed.
e. What is the current zoning classification on the site?
The site is zoned R4 -Low Density Residential.
f. What is the current comprehensive plan designation of the site?
The City Land Use Element of the Comprehensive Plan and its
associated environmental impact statement, classified the land as
Low Density Residential.
g. If applicable, what is the current Shoreline Master Program designation of the
site?
Not applicable.
h. Has any part of the site been classified an "environmentally sensitive" area?
If so, specify.
Yes, this property and the surrounding parcels are located
within an aquifer recharge area.
Approximately how many people would reside or work in the completed
project?
Based on 41 units and 2.3 persons per household, 94 people would be
expected to reside in the completed project.
Approximately how many people would the completed project displace?
Approximately two people will 6e displaced who formally lived on the
cattle farm.
k. Proposed measures to avoid or reduce displacement impacts, if any:
None proposed.
I. Proposed measures to ensure the proposal is compatible with existing and
projected land uses and plans, if any:
Page 10
This project is subject to the land use and environmental approval
process as set forth in state and local codes. Considerable effort has
been taken to ensure the project is compatible with Yelm's
Comprehensive Plan and associated E1S, the City Development
Standards and Critical Areas Ordinance. Reviewing agencies will
ensure that the project is meeting all requirements.
9. HOUSING
a. Approximately how many units would be provided, if any? Indicate whether
high, middle, or low-income housing.
41 middle-income units will be provided.
b. Approximately how many units, if any, would be eliminated? Indicate whether
high, middle, or low-income housing.
One middle-income residential unit will be eliminated.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control housing impacts, if any:
None proposed.
10. AESTHETICS
a. What is the tallest height of any proposed structure(s), not including
antennas; what is the principal exterior building material(s) proposed.
Over all height will not exceed 35 feet above the lowest grade on the
site.
b. What views in the immediate vicinity would be altered or obstructed?
No views (including that of Mount Rainier) from adjacent properties will
be altered or obstructed by this development.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control aesthetic impacts, if any:
Proper use of materials and nicely landscaped areas.
11. LIGHT AND GLARE
a. What type of light or glare will the proposal produce? What time of day would
it mainly occur?
Security lighting and street lighting should not increase the amount of
glare beyond the amount that is normally induced by street lighting
alone.
b. Could light or glare from the finished project be a safety hazard or interfere
with view?
No, it should not.
c. What existing off-site sources of light or glare may affect your proposal?
Page 11
None.
d. Proposed measures to reduce or control light and glare impacts, if any:
Ensure that all on-site lighting is directed in toward the site and away
from adjacent properties.
12. RECREATION
a. What designated and informal recreational opportunities are in the immediate
vicinity?
Currently, there are no formal recreational facilities onsite. Within the
vicinity, a number of city parks and school sites exist that provide
recreation opportunities as well as the Nisqually Valley Golf Course.
b. Would the proposed project displace any existing recreational uses? If so,
describe.
No it would not.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control impacts on recreation, including
recreation opportunities to be provided by the project or applicant, if any:
Provide approximately .8 acres of active and passive open space,
playground, etc. Areas will be designated for passive or active
recreational opportunities.
13. HISTORIC AND CULTURAL PRESERVATION
a. Are there any places or objects listed on, or proposed for, national, state, or
local preservation registers known to be on or next to the site? If so,
generally describe.
There are no sites of historical significance on or near this site.
b. Generally describe any landmarks or evidence of historic, archaeological,
scientific, or cultural importance known to be on or next to the site.
None known.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control impacts, if any:
None proposed.
14. TRANSPORTATION
a. Identify public streets and highways serving the site, and describe proposed
access to the existirg street system. Show on site plan, if any.
Longmire Street will be the primary roadway serving this site.
b. Is the site currently served by public transit? If not, what is the approximate
distance to the nearest transit stop?
Page 12
c
d
e
f
9•
15
a
b.
16
a.
b.
None, however provisions are being made for future school bus and
public transit.
How many parking spaces would the completed project have? How many
would the project eliminate.
Each residential unit will have required onsite parking, some offsite or
street parking. Commercial parking will be also provided.
Will the proposal require any new roads or streets, or improvements to
existing road or streets, not including driveways? If so, generally describe
(indicated whether public or private).
Yes, public roads are proposed -Please refer to Site Plan.
Will the project use (or occur in the immediate vicinity of) water, rail, or air
transportation? If so, generally describe.
No
How many vehicular trips per day would be generated by the completed
project? If known, indicate when peak volumes would occur. ~
~~
The project is expected to generate approximately 410 average daily
trips and 41 peak hour trips during the afternoon.
Proposed measures to reduce or control transportation impacts, if any.
The Transportation Study by TENW outlines the detailed mitigation
requirements for the project.
PUBLIC SERVICES
Would the project result in an increased need for public services (for
example: fire protection, police protection, health care, schools, other)? If so,
generally describe.
The addition of 41 new residential units will add some increased need
for public services such as standard police and fire protection.
Proposed measures to reduce or control direct impacts on public services, if
any.
Contribution to the City's mitigation fee program which will provide
funding for schools and roads.
UTILITIES
Ci~ cu avail site: ; electrici natural ga water
;refuse servic elephone sanitary sewer eptic system, other.
Describe the utilities that are proposed for the project, the utility providing the
service, and the general construction activities on the site or in the immediate
vicinity which might be needed.
Page 13
Existing water, sewer, power, phone, cable and other utilities currently
serve the site and will be utilized for this plat Service providers are:
Water- City of Yelm to include on-site groundwater supply
Sewer- City of Yelm municipal sewer system. Including waste water
reuse.
Storm - On-site
Refuse -Pacific Disposal
Power- Puget Sound Energy
Phone - YCOM
SIGNATURE
The above answers are true and complete to the best of my knowledge. I understand
that the lead agency is relying on them to make it's decision.
Signature.
~',
Date Submitted: ~~C ~S
f:ltextl++pf++\05\050031eG. frm
CITY USE ONLY
FEE: $150.00
DATE RECD
BY:
FILE NO.
CITY OF YELM
ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST
A BACKGROUND
1. Name of proposed project, if any:
Terra Valley
2. Name of applicant:
Terra Valley, LLC
3. Address, phone number and email address of applicant and of any other contact person:
Steven L. Chamberlain slc@slcemail.com
Doug Bloom
Tahoma Terra LLC
4200 6~h Ave SE Suite 301
Lacey, WA 98503
360.493.6002
4. Date checklist prepared:
August 2005
5. Agency requesting checklist:
City of Yelm
6. Proposed timing or schedule {including phasing, if applicable):
Construction to begin immediately after plat and engineering approval is issued.
7. Do you have any plans for future additions, expansion, or further activity related to or
connected with this proposal? If yes, explain.
Yes, the preliminary plat of Tahoma Terra and the off-site road improvements to
Longmire Street are important for this project.
Page 3
8. List any environmental information you know about that has been prepared, or will be
prepared, directly related to this proposal.
March 1993 Southwest Yelm Annexation Final Environmental Impact Statement
June 1992 Southwest Yelm Annexation Draft Environmental Impact Statement
9. Do you know whether applications are pending for governmental approvals of other
proposals directly affecting the property covered by your proposal? If yes, explain.
Yes, those projects associated with the Tahoma Terra proposal.
10. List any government approvals or permits that will be needed for your proposal, if known.
Environmental assessment, grading plan approval, engineering plan approval and
building plan approval.
11. Give brief, complete description of your proposal, including the proposed uses and the
size of the project and site. There are several questions later in this checklist that ask you
to describe certain aspects of your proposal. You do not need to repeat those answers
on this page.
Preliminary Plat Approval to Construct 41 residential units on a 9.7-acre parcel
12. Location of the proposal. Give sufficient information for a person to understand the
precise location of your proposed project, including a street address, if any, and section,
township, and range, if known. If a proposal would occur over a range of area, provide
the range or boundaries of the site(s). Provide a legal description, site plan, vicinity map,
and topographic map, if reasonably available. You need not duplicate maps or detail
plans submitted with any permit applications related to this checklist.
The project is located at the end of Longmire Street , in section 24, Township 17,
Range 1 East W.M.
Thurston County Assessor's Parcel Numbers: 21724340000
B. ENVIRONMENTAL ELEMENTS
1. EARTH
a. General description of the site (circle one): Flat, rolling, hilly, steep slopes,
mountainous, other:
The property is vegetated with pasture grasses, trees and understory
plants. A residence and farmstead is located on the property. The site can be
characterized as flat to rolling.
b. What is the steepest slope on the site (approximate slope)?
Approximately 8%
c. What general types of soils are found on the site (for example, clay, sand,
gravel, peat, muck)? If you know the classification of agricultural soils,
specify them and note any prime farmland.
The soil type listed for the site in the Soils Survey of Thurston
County, Washington, Sheet 24; Spanaway sandy gravelly loam 0-3.
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d. Are there surface indications or history of unstable soils in the immediate
vicinity? If so, describe.
There are no indications of unstable soils in the area.
e. Describe the purpose, type and approximate quantities of any filling or
grading proposed. Indicate source of fill.
Grading will be necessary on this site for purposes of building roads,
building pads and stormwater facilities.
In general, we expect there will be approximately 5,000 cubic yards of
material that will be cut, moved, processed and used as fill to balance
the sites earthwork needs. There are no significant physical features,
i.e., hills, rock outcroppings, etc., that will require significant changes in
the overall landscape of the area. Please refer to the Preliminary
Grading and Drainage Plan for details.
f. Could erosion occur as a result of clearing, construction, or use? If so,
generally describe.
There is always the potential of erosion especially during excavation
work. However, due to the topography of the site, all erosion will be
contained on site.
g. About what percent of the site will be covered with impervious surfaces after
project construction (for example, asphalt or buildings)?
Approximately 30%.
h. Proposed measures to reduce or control erosion, or other impacts to the
earth, if any:
The installations of erosion control measures, i.e., silt fences, catch
basin filters, etc., will be installed for purposes of controlling erosion
potential during the excavation phase of construction. Long-teen
erosion control measures will involve significant landscaping of all
disturbed areas.
2. AIR
a. What types of emissions to the air would result from the proposal (i.e., dust,
automobile, odors, industrial wood smoke) during construction and when the
project is completed? If any, generally describe and give approximate
quantities if known.
During the project there will be emissions from construction
equipment and construction personnel vehicles. Occasional dust
may be generated by the construction activities as well Following
construction, there will be emissions from automobiles driven by staff
and visitors of the facility.
b. Are there any off-site sources of emissions or odor that may affect your
proposal? If so, generally describe.
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No there are not.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control emissions or other impacts to air, if
any:
All equipment used on site during construction will be equipped with
standard emission control devices. If dust is a problem, water trucks
will be used to keep the soil damp.
3. WATER
a. Surface:
1) Is there any surface waterbody on or in the immediate vicinity of the
site (including year-round and seasonal streams, saltwater, lakes,
ponds, wetland)? If yes, describe type and provide names. If
appropriate, state what stream or river it flows into.
Yes. The Tahoma Terra site has some identified wetlands but
the wetland and its protective buffer do not impact the subject
site. There is also a small, man-made pond on the site that was
excavated by the previous property owner.
In addition, this property and the surrounding parcels are
located within an aquifer recharge area according to County
Comp. Plan Map M-8.
2) Will the project require any work over, in, or adjacent to (within 200
feet) the described water? If yes, please describe and attach
available plans.
Yes, the project will be constructing roads and lots within 200
feet of the described waters.
3) Estimate the amount of fill and dredge material that would be placed
in or removed from surface water or wetlands and indicate the area
of the site that would be affected. Indicate the source of fill material.
None
4) Will the proposal require surface water withdrawals or diversions?
Give general description, purpose, and approximate quantities if
known.
No it will not
5) Does the proposal lie within a 100-year flood plain? If so, note
locations on the site plan.
Referring to the December 1, 1982 Thurston County Flood
Insurance Rate Map (Community-Panel Number 530188 0335 C),
within this proposal there is no 100-year flood plain on site.
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6) Does the proposal involve any discharges of waste materials to
surface water? If so, describe the type of waste and anticipated
volume of discharge.
There is no waste materials proposed to be discharged to the
surface waters.
b. Ground:
1) Will ground water be withdrawn, or will water be discharged to
ground water? Give general description, purpose and approximate
quantities, if known.
No groundwater will be withdrawn.
2) Describe waste material that will be discharged into the ground from
septic tanks or other sources, if any (for example: Domestic sewage;
industrial, containing the following chemicals..., agricultural; etc.).
Describe the general size of the system, the number of such
systems, the number of houses to be served (if applicable), or the
number of animals or humans the system(s) are expected to serve.
No waste materials will be discharged to ground water.
c. Water Runoff (including stormwater):
1) Describe the source of runoff (including stormwater) and method of
collection and disposal, if any (include quantities, if known). Where
will this water flow? Will this water flow into other water? If so,
describe.
Urban Development runoff will be collected and infiltrated into
the grounds. See Drainage Report
2) Could waste materials enter ground or surface waters? If so,
generally describe.
Not likely with an appropriately designed, approved and
installed stormwater system.
d. Proposed measures to reduce or control surface, ground and runoff water
impacts, if any:
See detailed storm drainage report and drainage p/an.
4. PLANTS
a. Check or circle types of vegetation found on the site:
_x_ deciduous tree: aldermaple aspen, other
_x_ evergreen tre :fir cedar, pine, other
_x_ shrubs
_x_ grass
_x_ pasture
crop or grain
wet soil plants: cattail, buttercup, bullbrush, skunk cabbage, other
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water plants: water lily, eelgrass, milfoil, other
other types of vegetation
b. What kind and amount of vegetation will be removed or altered?
Some existing trees and pasture areas will be removed to make room
for roads and home sites.
c. List threatened or endangered species known to be on or near the site.
None identified
d. Proposed landscaping, use of native plants, or other measures to preserve or
enhance vegetation on the site, if any.
All disturbed areas will be re-landscaped with landscaping suitable to
the area.
ANIMALS
a. Circle any birds and animals which have been observed on or near the site or
ace known to be on or near the site (See Appendix D of Final EIS):
Birds: ~ haw heron agle•, sonclbirds they.
Mammals: ~ deer ear, elk, beaver, other:
Fish: bass, salmon, trout, herring, shellfish, other:
b. List any threatened or endangered species known to be on or near the site.
None identified
c. Is the site part of a migration route? If so, explain.
Not to our knowledge
Proposed measures to preserve or enhance wildlife, if any:
Retaining native vegetation within the tree tract areas and new
landscaping will provide some habitat opportunities for urban wildlife
species. In addition, approximately .8 acres of open space will be
retained to help preserve wildlife.
6. ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES
What kinds of energy (electric, natural gas, oil, wood stove, solar) will be used
to meet the completed project's energy needs? Describe whether it will be
used for heating, manufacturing, etc.
Electricity and natural gas will provide the energy needs of the facility.
b. Would your project affect the potential use of solar energy by adjacent
properties? If so, generally describe.
This project will not affect the potential use of solar energy by adjacent
properties. No structures will be exceeding 35 feet in height.
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c. What kinds of energy conservation features are included in the plans of this
proposal? List other proposed measures to reduce or control energy
impacts, if any:
The buildings will be designed in compliance with all current energy
efficiency codes. All appliances will be selected with energy
conservation in mind.
7. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
Are there any environmental health hazards, including exposure to toxic
chemicals, risk of fire and explosion, spill, or hazardous waste, that could
occur as a result of this proposal? If so, describe.
No. But, there is always a small potential that fire or a fuel spill could
occur on site during construction.
1) Describe special emergency services that might be required.
No special emergency services other than standard medical
emergency response is expected for this project.
2) Proposed measures to reduce or control environmental health
hazards, if any:
None proposed.
Noise
1) What types of noise exist in the area which may affect your project
(for example: traffic, equipment, operation, other)?
There are no noises in the area that will affect this project.
2) What types and levels of noise would be created by or associated with
the project on a short-term or a long-term basis (for example: traffic,
construction, operation, other)? Indicate what hours noise would come
from the site.
Short-term noise will be generated during construction of the
project. This will primarily be composed of equipment noise
during clearing and grading, and other construction noise while
homes are being built.
3) Proposed measures to reduce or control noise impacts, if any:
Construction will take place during daylight hours only and will
comply with Yelm requirements pertaining to noise.
8. LAND AND SHORELINE USE
What is the current use of the site and adjacent properties?
Currently, a residence and farmstead is located on the property.
Adjacent properties to the north and west is the previously approved
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master planned development of Tahoma Terra. Property to the south
is the Nisqually Valley Golf Course and to the east is undeveloped
land.
b. Has the site been used for agriculture? If so, describe.
Yes. Originally the site was used as a cattle farm.
c. Describe any structures on the site.
There is an existing residence that includes a house, and out buildings.
d. Will any structures be demolished? If so, what?
Yes. The existing residence that includes a house, and out buildings
will al! be removed.
e. What is the current zoning classification on the site?
The site is zoned R4 -Low Density Residential.
f. What is the current comprehensive plan designation of the site?
The City Land Use Element of the Comprehensive Plan and its
associated environmental impact statement, classified the land as
Low Density Residential.
g. If applicable, what is the current Shoreline Master Program designation of the
site?
Not applicable.
h. Has any part of the site been classified an "environmentally sensitive" area?
If so, specify.
Yes, this property and the surrounding parcels are located
within an aquifer recharge area.
i. Approximately how many people would reside or work in the completed
project?
Based on 41 units and 2.3 persons per household, 94 people would be
expected to reside in the completed project
j. Approximately how many people would the completed project displace?
Approximately two people will be displaced who formally lived on the
cattle farm.
k. Proposed measures to avoid or reduce displacement impacts, if any:
None proposed.
Proposed measures to ensure the proposal is compatible with existing and
projected land uses and plans, if any:
Page 10
This project is subject to the land use and environmental approval
process as set forth in state and local codes. Considerable effort has
been taken to ensure the project is compatible with Yelm's
Comprehensive Plan and associated ElS, the City Development
Standards and Critical Areas Ordinance. Reviewing agencies will
ensure that the project is meeting all requirements.
9. HOUSING
a. Approximately how many units would be provided, if any? Indicate whether
high, middle, orlow-income housing.
41 middle-income units will be provided.
b. Approximately how many units, if any, would be eliminated? Indicate whether
high, middle, orlow-income housing.
One middle-income residential unit will be eliminated.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control housing impacts, if any:
None proposed.
10. AESTHETICS
a. What is the tallest height of any proposed structure(s), not including
antennas; what is the principal exterior building material(s) proposed.
Over all height will not exceed 35 feet above the lowest grade on the
site.
b. What views in the immediate vicinity would be altered or obstructed?
No views (including that of Mount Rainier) from adjacent properties will
be altered or obstructed by this development.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control aesthetic impacts, if any:
Proper use of materials and nicely landscaped areas.
11. LIGHT AND GLARE
a. What type of light or glare will the proposal produce? What time of day would
it mainly occur?
Security lighting and street lighting should not increase the amount of
glare beyond the amount that is normally induced by street lighting
alone.
b. Could light or glare from the finished project be a safety hazard or interfere
with view?
No, it should not.
c. What existing off-site sources of light or glare may affect your proposal?
Page 11
None.
d. Proposed measures to reduce or control light and glare impacts, if any:
Ensure that all on-site lighting is directed in toward the site and away
from adjacent properties.
12. RECREATION
a. What designated and informal recreational opportunities are in the immediate
vicinity?
Currently, there are no formal recreational facilities onsite. Within the
vicinity, a number of city parks and school sites exist that provide
recreation opportunities as well as the Nisqually Valley Golf Course.
b. Would the proposed project displace any existing recreational uses? If so,
describe.
No it would not.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control impacts on recreation, including
recreation opportunities to be provided by the project or applicant, if any:
Provide approximately .8 acres of active and passive open space,
playground, etc. Areas will be designated for passive or active
recreational opportunities.
13. HISTORIC AND CULTURAL PRESERVATION
a. Are there any places or objects listed on, or proposed for, national, state, or
local preservation registers known to be on or next to the site? If so,
generally describe.
There are no sites of historical significance on or near this site.
b. Generally describe any landmarks or evidence of historic, archaeological,
scientific, or cultural importance known to be on or next to the site.
None known.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control impacts, if any:
None proposed.
14. TRANSPORTATION
a. Identify public streets and highways serving the site, and describe proposed
access to the existing street system. Show on site plan, if any.
Longmire Street will be the primary roadway serving this site.
b. Is the site currently served by public transit? If not, what is the approximate
distance to the nearest transit stop?
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None, however provisions are being made for future school bus and
public transit
c. How many parking spaces would the completed project have? How many
would the project eliminate.
Each residential unit will have required onsite parking, some offsite or
street parking. Commercial parking will be also provided.
d. Will the proposal require any new roads or streets, or improvements to
existing road or streets, not including driveways? If so, generally describe
(indicated whether public or private).
Yes, public roads are proposed -Please refer to Site Plan.
e. Will the project use (or occur in the immediate vicinity of) water, rail, or air
transportation? If so, generally describe.
No
f. How many vehicular trips per day would be generated by the completed
project? If known, indicate when peak volumes would occur.
The project is expected to generate approximately 410 average daily
trips and 41 peak hour trips during the afternoon.
g. Proposed measures to reduce or control transportation impacts, if any.
The Transportation Study by TENW outlines the detailed mitigation
requirements for the project.
15. PUBLIC SERVICES
a. Would the project result in an increased need for public services (for
example: fire protection, police protection, health care, schools, other)? If so,
generally describe.
The addition of 41 new residential units will add some increased need
for public services such as standard police and fire protection.
b. Proposed measures to reduce or control direct impacts on public services, if
any.
Contribution to the City's mitigation fee program which will provide
funding for schools and roads.
16. UTILITIES
a. Circ ~' ~ c avail site: electrici natural ga water
~ refuse servic elephone sanitary sewer eptic system, other.
b. Describe the utilities that are proposed for the project, the utility providing the
service, and the general construction activities on the site or in the immediate
vicinity which might be needed.
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Existing water, sewer, power, phone, cable and other utilities currently
serve the site and will be utilized for this plat. Service providers are:
Water - City of Yelm to include on-site groundwater supply
Sewer- City of Yelm municipal sewer system. Including waste water
reuse.
Storm - On-site
Refuse -Pacific Disposal
Power -Puget Sound Energy
Phone - YCOM
SIGNATURE
The above answers are true and complete to the best of my knowledge. I understand
that the lead agency is relying on them to make it's decision.
Signature. c~.
Date Submitted: / ~c ~~
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