Loading...
CC SR 20171219 3 - Abalone Cove SewerRANCHO PALOS VERDES CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: 12/19/2017 AGENDA REPORT AGENDA HEADING: Regular Business AGENDA DESCRIPTION: Consideration and possible action to reduce the City's financial subsidy in the maintenance and operation of the Abalone Cove Sewer System. RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION: (1) Receive report and provide direction on possible future actions. FISCAL IMPACT: None Amount Budgeted: FY17-18 Budgeted Expenditures: $223,100 (Acct. 225-400-0000-521M) Operations $175,000 (Acct. 330- 400-8203-8001) Capital FY17-18 Budgeted Revenues: $55,100 (Acct. 225-300-0000-3102) Assessments $500.00 (Acct. 225-300-0000-3601) Interest Income $208,000 Transfer in from General Fund Tax Rev Additional Appropriation: N/A Account Number(s): See above ORIGINATED BY: Ron Dragoo, PE, Principal Engineer --- REVIEWED BY: Elias Sassoon, PE, Director of Public Works APPROVED BY: Doug Willmore, City Manager f' ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: A. Abalone Cove Sewer Maintenance Fee Study Update (page A-1) BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION: At the June 20, 2017, City Council meeting, the City Council asked Staff to evaluate the overall operation of the Abalone Cove Sewer System, and to return with options that could potentially aid in reducing the City's on-going subsidy of the system to zero. The Abalone Cove Sewer Maintenance Fee was first introduced at the July 17, 2001, City Council meeting. Ordinance No. 368 amending the Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal Code was adopted August 7, 2001, establishing sewer maintenance fees for the Abalone Cove Sewer System. The maintenance fee was established in accordance with the needs of the new system, which was just then becoming operational. Funding for the eventual replacement of system components was not included in the initial budget, and the August 7, 2001 report indicated that the initial maintenance fee was to 1 be subsidized by $19,125 annually to help reduce the cost of maintaining the system to residents. The report further indicates that "[the] City Subsidy will be reviewed each year thereafter when the City's Budget is adopted, and may be discontinued, reduced, or otherwise altered as the City Council deems appropriate". The subsidy has continued every year following the initial establishment of the fee without ever being increased by the Consumer Price Index (CPI) factor allowed. Since the beginning of operation of the City-owned/maintained Abalone Cove Sewer System in 2001 (Attachment A, Appendix, Item 1), the system has been maintained, and repairs performed as needed. The system is aging, and repairs/upgrades are needed to minimize the probability of sewer overflows in this system. The cost of implementing these repairs/improvements to the system is increasing the overall cost to operate the system. However, the fees collected through the property owner charges are less than the annual costs of operating and maintaining the system, as previously stated, and the City has subsidized sewer maintenance costs since the maintenance fee was adopted. While the original fee was established to maintain and operate a new system, funds to replace failing components were not included in the original fee schedule. The original fee, upon establishment, was 50% subsidized by the City. The cost of maintenance continues to increase as the cost of maintenance services rise, the system is getting older and system component replacements and upgrades are needed. The State (through an EPA mandate) has put in place operator requirements that were not in place when this system came on line and the fee was originally established. The mandate requires all sewer system operators in California to develop a Sewer System Management Plan (SSMP) detailing the City's maintenance plans to limit the number of Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSO) to zero. The City's SSMP has been developed and we are currently in compliance in Abalone Cove. However, fines can be imposed for violations of this requirement. To this end, a Sewer Needs Assessment (Attachment A, p. 28), was conducted to determine likely costs to repair/upgrade the system and meet the intent of the State -required SSMP. The Abalone Cove Sewer Maintenance Fee Study Update (Attachment A) provides details on how the subsidy can be reduced to zero while funding the needed repairs/improvements. The fee can be adjusted through the Proposition 218 process, which requires a public protest hearing to be held. A proposed new rate could be approved if a majority of affected property owners did not personally attend the protest hearing and/or submit their protests in writing to the City Council. If a majority of property owners did not protest, a new rate could be put in place. A chart (Attachment A, p. 4) illustrates different subsidy levels that would allow some of the repairs/improvements to be implemented, which could demonstrate the City's good -faith effort to meet the intent of the zero SSO requirement. This chart may be used by the City Council to illustrate how the rates would change if the City continued to subsidize at different levels. 2 ALTERNATIVES: Alternatively, the City Council can choose to simply keep the fee at its current rate and forgo the needed repairs/improvements and gradually end the subsidy. However, this would put the City at risk of system failures and violation of the zero SSO requirement, possibly resulting in fines or other enforcement actions against the City. 3 w ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE STUDY UPDATE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES LOS ANGELES COUNTY, CALIFORNIA December 5,2017 liiiiQ PENCOENG Client Success is Our Success CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 Table of Contents EXECUTIVE SUMMARY......................................................... 1 INTRODUCTION..............................................................5 ANNUAL REVENUE REQUIREMENTS .............................................. 6 Administrative Costs Table 1. Estimate of Annual Administrative Costs Operations, Maintenance and Capital Improvement Costs Table 2. Estimated Annual Revenue Requirements Annual Revenue Requirements by Subsystem Table 3. Summary of the Annual Revenue Requirements by Subsystem SEWER CHARGES AND REVENUE ANALYSIS ......................................... 9 Rate Zones Existing Annual Rates Table 4. Historical Maximum Sewer Charge Rates by Zone Maximum Annual Revenue Proiected Revenue Shortfall Table 5. Estimated Projected Annual Revenue Shortfall Projected Cash Flow Summary Table 6. 10 -Year Projected Cash Flow Summary - No Subsidy Subsidy Considerations Subsidy Levels Chart FEE ADOPTION PROCESS ................................................. ...... 14 Steps to Establishment A-2 TOC Page i liiiQ PENCOENG Client Success is Our Success CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 APPENDIX .................................................................... 15 Table A. Estimate of Annual Operations, Maintenance and Capital Improvement Costs ......... 16 Table B. Projected Maximum Sewer Charge Rates by Zone ............................... 17 Table C. Equivalent Residential Units by Zone ......................................... 17 Table D. Maximum Projected Annual Sewer Charge Revenue by Zone ...................... 17 Item 1. Attorney Work Product ................................................... 18 Item 2. Abalone Cove Sewer Needs Assessment ...................................... 28 A-3 TOC Page ii liiiQ PENCOENG Client Success is Our Success EXECUTIVE SUMMARY CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 The City of Rancho Palos Verdes requested that Penco Engineering develop an estimate of the sewer user fees that would be needed to fully fund the annual operation and maintenance cost and needed capital projects costs associated with the Abalone Cove Sewer System. The current sewer rates being levied by the City on parcels with the Abalone Cove area do not cover the annual operating and maintenance costs for the system. In addition, City staff have identified a number of capital projects that are needed to provide residents with a reliable sewer system. This analysis identifies the annual sewer rates that would be needed, by zone, to adequately fund the sewer system based upon the current rate methodology. The highlights of the report are as follows: • The City owns the Abalone Cove sewer system, see "Attorney Work Product" in the Appendix, Item 1. • The existing sewer system for Abalone Cove needs capital improvements, see "Abalone Cove Sewer Needs Assessment" in the Appendix, Item 2. • The original fee was established to maintain and operate a new system, funds to replace failing components were not included in the original fee schedule (and City subsidized 50% of the original fee). • In addition, the State Water Board has adopted zero tolerance for sanitary sewer overflow (SSO). The proposed Maintenance/Capital Improvements will help to meet the zero SSO mandate. • The table below summarizes the estimated Annual Revenue requirements including administrative, operation and Capital Improvement costs for the next five years. Summary of the Annual Revenue Requirements by Subsystem Annual Revenue Requirements Fiscal Year 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 Summary by Subsystem Subsystem Gravity Subsystem Cost Estimate $89,250 $91,928 $94,685 $97,526 $100,452 Force Main Subsystem Cost Estimate $135,565 $123,762 $85,760 $88,333 $90,983 Low Pressure Subsystem Cost Estimate $572,480 $267,569 $275,596 $283,864 $292,380 Totals $797,295 $483,259 $456,042 $469,723 $483,815 Page 1 liiiQ PENCOENG Client Success is Our Success CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 • The sewer system has historically been divided into 4 zones, A, B, C, and D. Below are the historical rates charged each zone for the last five years and the following table, shows the rates for the next five years with just a CPI adjustment. Historical Maximum Sewer Charge Rate by Zone Historical Sewer Charge Zone Maximum Rates Per ERU A B C D Year and Historical Rates Per ERU Fiscal Year 2013-14 $163.92 $660.00 $222.51 $718.57 Fiscal Year 2014-15 $165.56 $660.60 $224.74 $725.76 Fiscal Year 2015-16 $165.73 $667.27 $224.96 $726.49 Fiscal Year 2016-17 $166.13 $668.87 $225.50 $728.23 Fiscal Year 2017-18 $170.62 $686.93 $231.59 $747.89 Source: 2017-18 Abalone Cove Sewer Service Charge Annual Report * Equivalent Residential Unit Projected Maximum Sewer Charge Rates by Zone Projected Sewer Charge Zone A B C D Maximum Rates Per ERU Year and Projected Rates Fiscal Year 2018-19 $173.61 $698.95 $235.64 $760.98 Fiscal Year 2019-20 $176.64 $711.18 $239.77 $774.30 Fiscal Year 2020-21 $179.74 $723.63 $243.96 $787.85 Fiscal Year 2021-22 $182.88 $736.29 $248.23 $801.63 Fiscal Year 2022-23 $186.08 $749.18 $252.58 $815.66 Projected rates are equal to the previous years rate plus escalation for inflation at a projected rate of 1.75% CM Page 2 liiiQ PENCOENG Client Success is Our Success CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 • The table below shows the estimated Revenue Shortfall if the current rates only are increased by the CPI for the next five years. Estimated Projected Annual Revenue Shortfall The table below shows the required rates that need to be charged for the system to become revenue neutral within a ten year period as compared to the current rates that are being charged. The City would need to loan funds to the District in the early years. See Table 6 in the report for details. Zone Fiscal Year Projected Revenue Shortfall No Subsidy Rate $IERU 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 30.00 Cost Estimate Shortfall Maximum Projected Revenue $59,130 $60,165 $61,218 $62,289 $63,379 Estimate Revenue Required 797,295 483,259 456,042 469,723 483,815 Cost Estimate - Annual Revenue ($738,165) ($423,094) ($394,824) ($407,434) ($420,436) Shortfall Cumulative Cost Estimate Shortfall ($738,165) ($1,161,259) ($1,556,083) ($1,963,517) ($2,383,953) The table below shows the required rates that need to be charged for the system to become revenue neutral within a ten year period as compared to the current rates that are being charged. The City would need to loan funds to the District in the early years. See Table 6 in the report for details. Zone ERU Current Rate $/ERU No Subsidy Rate $IERU Zone A 30.00 $ 170.62 $ 788.13 Zone B 35.00 $686.93 $ 2,436.41 Zone C 37.82 $231.59 $ 5,864.88 Zone D 27.00 $747.89 $ 7,513.15 Page 3 liiiQ PENCOENG Client Success is Our Success CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 • The chart below illustrates how the rates would change if the City wanted to continue a subsidy at different levels. $/ERU Subsidy Chart $8,000.00 -Zone -Zone -Zone -Zone A B C D $7,513.15 $7,000.00 (FY 17-18 �0 $747.89) $6,000.00 $5,634.86 L $5,864.88 (FY 17-18 $5,000.00 ti $231.59) $4,398.66 $4,000.00 $3,756.58 $3,000.00 $2,932.44 $2,000.00 $1,878.29 $2,436.41 $1,827.31 (FY 17-18 $1,466.22 $686.93) $1,000.00 $1,218.20 ZONE A $609.10 $788.13 $0.00 5591.10 (FY 17-18 197.03 $394.07 $ $0.00 $170.62) 100% 75% 50% 25% 0% SUBSIDY PERCENTAGE • At a 25% subsidy, the City would be contributing approximately $133,400/year • At a 50% subsidy, the City would be contributing approximately $266,790/year • At a 75% subsidy, the City would be contributing approximately $400,000/year A-7 Page 4 liiiQ PENCOENG Client Success is Our Success INTRODUCTION CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 The City of Rancho Palos Verdes (the "City") is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the sewer system in the Abalone Cove area, which consist of grinder pumps on each sewer lateral and a series of lift stations and low pressure force mains, see "Attorney Work Product" in the Appendix, Item 1. The Abalone Cove Sewer System was constructed by the City in FY 2002-03 to get properties off of septic systems in the landslide area. Because this system does not meet the standards of the Los Angeles County Sewer Maintenance District, the SMD would not accept this portion of the City's sewer system for maintenance. As such, the responsibility for the maintenance and operation of the Abalone Cove Sewer System rest with the City. Since the City is responsible for the maintenance of the Abalone Cove Sewer System, the City levies an annual fee on property owners connected to the Abalone Cove sewer. However, the fees collected are less than the annual costs of operating and maintaining the system, and the City has subsidized sewer maintenance costs for property owners in an effort to bring uniformity to the annual service charges collected by the SMD on other parcels within the City. The original fee was established to maintain and operate a new system, funds to replace failing components were not included in the original fee schedule (and City subsidized 50% of the original fee). In 2012, it was determined that a rate increase of 140%-400% (depending on the zone) would be required to balance expenditures with revenues. At that time, a decision was made not to seek a rate increases for properties served by the Abalone Cove Sewer System. Since that time, annual operation and maintenance costs have continued to increase, and as the system continues to age there is a need to upgrade/replace portions of the system. In addition, the State Water Board has adopted zero tolerance for sanitary sewer overflow (SSO). The proposed Maintenance/Capital Improvements will help to meet the zero SSO mandate. This report reviews the projected future expenses and revenues requirements for the operation and maintenance of the Abalone Cove sewer collection system. Based upon those costs a preliminary Sewer Maintenance Fee has been developed for the Abalone Cove system which would provide the revenue levels needed to cover the on-going operations and capital improvement costs for the system from those parcels that discharge wastewater into the Abalone Cove sewer collection system. F1,111111111no N&LO-1 Page 5 liiiQ PENCOENG Client Success is Our Success ANNUAL REVENUE REQUIREMENTS ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 Table 1 shows the estimated annual administrative costs for Fiscal Years 2018-19 through 2022-23. In deriving the figures, the estimated administrative costs for 2017-18, as provided annual Abalone Cove Sewer Service Charge Report, were escalated by 3% annually to account for inflation. Table 1 Estimate of Annual Administrative Costs Estimate of Annual Year ---F-Fiscal 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 Administrative Costs Account Description City Administration and Overhead $10,609 $10,928 $11,255 $11,593 $11,941 Edison 3,708 3,819 3,934 4,052 4,173 Professional Services 5,253 5,411 5,573 5,740 5,912 County Collection Charge 515 530 546 563 580 Total Administrative Costs $20,085 $20,688 $21,308 $21,948 $22,606 Source: 2017-18 Abalone Cove Sewer Service Charge Annual Report (plus 3% annual increase for inflation) OPERATIONS, MAINTENANCE AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT COSTS The Abalone Cove Sewer Charge was established to generate revenue in order to pay for administrative costs as discussed above along with costs to operate and maintain the Abalone Cove Sewer System, including costs associated with capital improvement and replacement. The Abalone Cove sewer system is comprised of three types of components or subsystems: • Gravity Subsystem • Force Main Subsystem • Low Pressure Subsystem In estimating the Capital Improvement cost expenditures, the "Abalone Cove Sewer Needs Assessment" document prepared by City staff was utilized, please see Appendix Item 2 for details. Table B, located in the Appendix, shows the details of the cost estimate of the annual expenditures based upon the recommended maintenance activities and capital expenditures for Fiscal Years 2018-19 through 2022-23 for the Abalone Cove Sewer System. It should be noted that all cost estimates utilize the upper end of cost estimates for planning purposes. Page 6 liiiQ PENCOENG Client Success is Our Success CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 Table 2 summarizes the annual administrative cost information from Table 1 and the estimated cost information for capital improvements from Table A in the Appendix. Table 2 Estimated Annual Revenue Requirements Estimate Fiscal Year Annual Revenue Requirements 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 Cost Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate Gravity Subsystem Administrative Costs * $20,085 $20,688 $21,308 $21,947 $22,606 Operations and Maintenance 69,165 71,240 73,377 75,578 77,846 Capital Improvement Projects 0 0 0 0 0 Gravity Subsystem Annual Revenue Required $89,250 $91,928 $94,685 $97,526 $100,452 Force Main Subsystem Operations and Maintenance 36,565 48,662 50,122 51,625 53,174 Capital Improvement Projects 99,000 75,100 35,638 36,707 37,808 Force Main Subsystem Annual Revenue Required $135,565 $123,762 $85,760 $88,333 $90,983 Low Pressure Subsystem Operations and Maintenance 110,480 143,794 148,108 152,551 157,128 Capital Improvement Projects 462,000 123,775 127,488 131,313 135,252 Low Pressure Subsystem Annual Revenue Required $572,480 $267,569 $275,596 $283,864 $292,380 Estimated Total Revenue Requirements $797,295 $483,259 $456,041 $469,723 $483,815 Sewer charge administrative costs from Table 1 are included with gravity subsystem costs since the gravity subsystem costs are shared by all equivalent residential units. A-10 Page 7 giiQ PENCOENG Client Success is Our Success ANNUAL REVENUE REQUIREMENTS BY SUBSYSTEM CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 Table 3 summarizes the estimated annual revenue requirements for each of the three subsystems of Abalone Cove for Fiscal Years 2018-19 through 2022-23. Table 3 Summary of the Annual Revenue Requirements by Subsystem Annual Revenue Requirements Fiscal Year 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 Summary by Subsystem Subsystem Gravity Subsystem Cost Estimate $89,250 $91,928 $94,685 $97,526 $100,452 Force Main Subsystem Cost Estimate $135,565 $123,762 $85,760 $88,333 $90,983 Low Pressure Subsystem Cost Estimate $572,480 $267,569 $275,596 $283,864 $292,380 Totals $797,295 $483,259 $456,042 $469,723 $483,815 A-11 Page 8 liiiQ PENCOENG Client Success is Our Success CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 SEWER CHARGE RATE AND REVENUE ANALYSIS RATE ZONES A system of zones was developed to identify the specific combination of subsystems used by each contributing parcel. These zones are as follows: • Zone A - Gravity Subsystem Only • Zone B - Gravity Subsystem and Force Main Subsystem • Zone C - Gravity Subsystem and Low Pressure Subsystem • Zone D - Gravity Subsystem, Force Main Subsystem and Low Pressure Subsystem EXISTING ANNUAL RATES Each rate zone has a maximum annual rate. Those rates are the determining factor as to the maximum revenue that can be generated annually from the current sewer service charges. The current rate that can be collected per Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU), can be increased annually based upon the increase in Consumer Price Index for all Urban Consumers (CPI) for the Los Angeles, Riverside and Orange County Areas, not to exceed seven percent (7%). Table 4 provides the historical maximum rate for each of rate zones covering the prior five year period. Table 4 Historical Maximum Sewer Charge Rate by Zone Historical Sewer Charge Zone A B C D Maximum Rate Per ERU Year and Historical Rate Per ERU Fiscal Year 2013-14 $163.92 $660.00 $222.51 $718.57 Fiscal Year 2014-15 $165.56 $660.60 $224.74 $725.76 Fiscal Year 2015-16 $165.73 $667.27 $224.96 $726.49 Fiscal Year 2016-17 $166.13 $668.87 $225.50 $728.23 Fiscal Year 2017-18 $170.62 $686.93 $231.59 $747.89 Source: 2017-18 Abalone Cove Sewer Service Charge Annual Report In order to project future maximum annual rates, and thereby future maximum annual revenue to be generated from the current sewer charges, an assumption was made with regard to the rate at which the maximum rates will escalate each year. In reviewing historical CPI data for all Urban Consumers (CPI) for the Los Angeles, Riverside and Orange County Areas, it was found that CPI increased on average by 1.64% per year over the previous five year period and by 1.82% per year over the previous ten year period. Considering this, Table B was prepared and provides the maximum rates for each zone for the next five years utilizing a projected annual CPI rate of 1.75% and is located in the Appendix. A-12 Page 9 liiiQ PENCOENG Client Success is Our Success MAXIMUM ANNUAL REVENUE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 The maximum revenue that can be generated from sewer charges for each zone is a product of the maximum annual rate times the number of ERU per zone. Table C provides the number of ERU in each of the rate zones and is located in the Appendix. Table D provides the maximum annual revenue that can be generated from sewer charges for each zone based on the projected maximum annual rates from Table B times the number of ERU per zone from Table D and is located in the Appendix. PROJECTED REVENUE SHORTFALL For the next five years and beyond, the projected maximum annual revenue that can be collected from the sewer charge rate is significantly less than the annual revenue required. Table 5 provides a comparison of the annual revenue required from table, versus the projected annual revenue based upon the current rates. Table 5 Estimated Projected Annual Revenue Shortfall Projected Revenue Shortfall Fiscal Year 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 Cost Estimate Shortfall Maximum Projected Revenue $59,130 $60,165 $61,218 $62,289 $63,379 Estimate Revenue Required 797,295 483,259 456,042 469,723 483,815 Cost Estimate - Annual Revenue ($738,165) ($423,094) ($394,824) ($407,434) ($420,436) Shortfall Cumulative Cost Estimate Shortfall ($738,165) ($1,161,259) ($1,556,083) ($1,963,517) ($2,383,953) PROJECTED CASH FLOW SUMMARY Based upon the annual maintenance costs and capital expenditures, Table 6 summarizes rates which would be required respectively for the recommended approach described below: • Recommended Approach — The annual sewer rate would fully fund annual operating and maintenance costs on a pay as you go basis, and be revenue neutral over a 10 year period. The City would need to loan funds to the district in the early years for the completion of the planned capital improvements which would be repaid over a 10 year period. Table 10 shows the annual revenues and expenditures based upon a 10 year repayment schedule. After that period, annual revenues would exceed expenditures beginning in Year 11 once the capital improvement cost have been recovered. This would allow the City to begin building a reserve for future capital expenditures or an emergency reserve fund for repairs to the system in the event of a natural disaster. A-13 Page 10 giiiQ PENCOENG Client Success is Our Success CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 Table 6 10 -Year Projected Cash Flow Summary - No Subsidy 10 Year Projected Fiscal Year 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 1 2022-23 1 2023-24 1 2024-25 1 2025-26 1 2026-27 1 2027-28 Cash Flow Summary Subsystem and Estimated Revenue Requirements ' Gravity Subsystem Administrative Costs Z $20,085 $20,688 $21,308 $21,947 $22,606 $23,284 $23,983 $24,702 $25,443 $26,206 Operations and Maintenance 69,165 71,240 73,377 75,578 77,846 80,181 82,587 85,064 87,616 90,245 Capital Improvement Projects 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Gravity Subsystem Annual Revenue Required $89,250 $91,928 $94,685 $97,526 $100,452 $103,465 $106,569 $109,766 $113,059 $116,451 Force Main Subsystem Operations and Maintenance 36,565 48,662 50,122 51,625 53,174 54,769 56,413 58,105 59,848 61,644 Capital Improvement Projects 99,000 75,100 35,638 36,707 37,808 38,943 40,111 41,314 42,554 43,830 Force Main Subsystem Annual Revenue Required $135,565 $123,762 $85,760 $88,333 $90,983 $93,712 $96,523 $99,419 $102,402 $105,474 Low Pressure Subsystem Operations and Maintenance 110,480 143,794 148,108 152,551 157,128 161,842 166,697 171,698 176,849 182,154 Capital Improvement Projects 462,000 123,775 127,488 131,313 135,252 139,310 143,489 147,794 152,228 156,794 Low Pressure Subsystem Annual Revenue Required $572,480 $267,569 $275,596 $283,864 $292,380 $301,152 $310,186 $319,492 $329,077 $338,949 Estimate Revenue Requirements 1 $797,195 1 $483,259 1 $456,042 1 $469,723 1 $483,815 1 $498,329 1 $513,279 1 $528,677 1 $544,538 1 $560,874 Zone and Estimated Revenues Zone ERUs EDU Zone A 30.00 $788.13 $23,644 $23,644 $23,644 $23,644 $23,644 $23,644 $23,644 $23,644 $23,644 $23,644 Zone B 35.00 $2,436.41 85,274 85,274 85,274 85,274 85,274 85,274 85,274 85,274 85,274 85,274 Zone C 37.82 $5,864.88 221,810 221,810 221,810 221,810 221,810 221,810 221,810 221,810 221,810 221,810 Zone D 27.00 $7,513.15 202,855 202,855 202,855 202,855 202,855 202,855 202,855 202,855 202,855 202,855 Total Estimated Revenue $533,583 $533,583 $533,583 $533,583 $533,583 $533,583 $533,583 $533,583 $533,583 $533,583 Annual Surplus/(Deficit) ($263,712) $50,324 $77,541 $63,860 $49,768 $35,254 $20,304 $4,906 ($10,955) ($27,291) Cumulative Surplus/(Deficit) ($263,712) ($213,388) ($135,847) ($71,987) ($22,218) $13,036 $33,340 $38,245 $27,191 $0 ' Estimated revenue requirements are equal to the average of the low cost estimate and the high cost estimate 2 Sewer charge administrative costs from Table 1 are included with gravity subsystem costs since the gravity subsystem costs are shared by all equivalent residential units. A-1 Page 11 liiiQ PENCOENG Client Success is Our Success SUBSIDY CONSIDERATION CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 A City subsidy of the annual expenditures could be considered for the following reasons: 1. The sewer system helps keep water out of the slide plane which helps minimize movement 2. The City has subsidized maintenance and improvements of the sewer septic system since its inception The 120" Altamira Storm Drain line transmits runoff from Altamira Canyon under Palos Verdes Drive South. This critical piece of infrastructure does not require a great deal of maintenance due to land movement being slowed by the sewer system. 4. Critical safety employees are able to quickly drive through the Abalone Cove because the roadway is moving slowly and does not require frequent repairs - the drivable surface is smoother and affords safer access for safety folks. The chart on the following page shows options for subsidy levels A-15 Page 12 liiiQ PENCOENG Client Success is Our Success CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 $/ERU Subsidy Chart $8,000.00 -Zone -Zone Zone -Zone A B C D $7,513.15 $7,000.00 (FY 17-18 $747.89) $6,000.00 $5,634.86 $5,864.88 (FY 17-18 $5,000.00 1.= $231.59) $4,398.66 $4,000.00 $3,756.58 $3,000.00 $2,932.44 ONE6 $2,000.00 $1,878.29 $2,436.41 $1,827.31 (FY 17-18 $686.93) $1,466.22 $1,000.00 $1,218.20 ZONE A 5788.13 $0.00 $609.10 $591.10 (FY 17-18 $0.00 $197.03 $394.07 $170.62) 100% 75% 50% 25% 0% SUBSIDY PERCENTAGE • At a 25% subsidy, the City would be contributing approximately $133,400/year • At a 50% subsidy, the City would be contributing approximately $266,790/year • At a 75% subsidy, the City would be contributing approximately $400,000/year A-16 Page 13 PENCOENG Client Success is Our Success FEE ADOPTION PROCESS STEPS TO ESTABLISHMENT CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 The following are the steps for establishing Sewer User Fees: 1. Finalize the parcel database. Fine-tune the Sewer Maintenance User Fee Rates needed to generate the required revenue for the maintenance and operation of the sewer system and sewer capital improvement program. 3. Prepare a draft Rate Analysis Report for review by City staff. 4. After approval of the Rate Analysis Report by the City Council, mail notices to all affected property owners a minimum of 45 -days prior to the public hearing. Since any increase in the current sewer user fees must comply with the requirements of Article XIIID, Section 6 of the California Constitution (Proposition 218), if a majority of the owners of property protest the increase in the sewer rate on their property the City cannot impose the increased rates on the parcels served by the Abalone Cove Sewer System. Respectfully submitted: Jeffry M. Cooper, PE PE CO Engineering, Inc. A-17 Page 14 liiiQ PENCOENG CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES ClientSuccess isOur Success UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 APPENDIX Table A. Estimate of Annual Operations, Maintenance and Capital Improvement Costs ....... 15 Table B. Projected Maximum Sewer Charge Rates by Zone ................................ 16 Table C. Equivalent Residential Units by Zone ........................................... 17 Table D. Maximum Projected Annual Sewer Charge Revenue by Zone ....................... 17 Item 1. Attorney Work Product....................................................... 17 Item 2. Abalone Cove Sewer Needs Assessment ........................................ 28 • Page 15 NCOENG K lient Success is Our Success Table A CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 Estimate of Annual Operations, Maintenance and Capital Improvement Costs Estimate of Annual Fiscal Year Maintenance, Operations and Capital Improvement Costs 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 Gravity Subsystem Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate Operations and Maintenance Annual System Maintenance t $5,665 $5,835 $6,010 $6,190 $6,376 Gravity Pipelines Video Inspection I'3 37,500 38,625 39,784 40,977 42,207 Differential Land Movement Monitoring 2 11,000 11,330 11,670 12,020 12,381 Manhole Inspection and Cleaning Z 15,000 15.450 15.914 16.391 16,883 Operations and Maintenance Subtotal $69,165 $71,240 $73,377 $75,578 $77,846 Capital Improvement Projects $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Gravity Subsystem Subtotal $69,165 $71,240 $73,377 $75,578 $77,846 Force Main Subsystem Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate Operations and Maintenance Annual System Maintenance t $36,565 $37,662 $38,792 $39,956 $41,154 GPS Monitoring Z 0 11.000 11.330 11.670 12,020 Operations and Maintenance Subtotal $36,565 $48,662 $50,122 $51,625 $53,174 Capital Improvement Proiects GPS Mapping of Existing System z $14,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 Design, Plans and Specifications, Cost Estimates Z 85,000 0 0 0 0 Construction Management and Inspection I'4 0 22,500 0 0 0 Above Ground Pipeline Replacement 2'4 0 34,600 35,638 36,707 37,808 Braided Stainless Steel Lines Z 0 18.000 0 0 0 Capital Improvement Projects Subtotal $99,000 $75,100 $35,638 $36,707 $37,808 Force Main Subsystem Subtotal $135,565 $123,762 $85,760 $88,333 $90,983 Low Pressure Subsystem Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate Operations and Maintenance Annual System Maintenance ' $16,480 $16,974 $17,484 $18,008 $18,548 Grinder Pump Maintenance z 94,000 96,820 99,725 102,716 105,798 Ongoing Preventative Maintenance Z 0 30,000 30,900 31.827 32,782 Operations and Maintenance Subtotal $110,480 $143,794 $148,108 $151,551 $157,128 Capital Improvement Projects Grinder Pump Laterals Z $10,500 $10,815 $11,139 $11,474 $11,818 Grinder Pump Replacement 2'6 32,000 32,960 33,949 34,967 36,016 New Lift Station - Narcissa/Figtree 2'6 0 80,000 82,400 84,872 87,418 Additional Lift Station Storage - Thyme Z 22,000 0 0 0 0 Additional Lift Station Storage - Sweetbay East Z 55,000 0 0 0 0 Additional Lift Station Storage - Sweetbay/Altimura Z 77,000 0 0 0 0 Additional Lift Station Storage - Abalone Cove Z 98,500 0 0 0 0 Convert Thyme and Sweetbay East to 3 Phase Power Z 75,000 0 0 0 0 Preventative Maintenance - Install Epoxy Coating Lining z 30,000 0 0 0 0 Preventative Maintenance - Install SCADA Z'' 62,000 0 0 0 0 Capital Improvement Projects Subtotal $462,000 $123,775 $127,488 $131,313 $135,252 Low Pressure Subsystem Subtotal $572,480 $267,569 $275,596 $283,864 $292,380 Cost Estimate Totals $777,210 $462,571 $434,733 $447,775 $461,209 ' Source: 2017-18 Abalone Cove Sewer Maintenance budgeted costs (including 3% escalation annually for inflation) 2 Source: 2017-18 Abalone Cove Sewer Needs Assessment (including 3% escalation annually for inflation) ' Video Inspection biannual cost is allocated over two-year periods (including 3% escalation annually for inflation) 4 Above Ground Pipeline Replacement cost is allocated over a ten-year period (including 3% escalation annually for inflation) s Grinder Pump Replacement cost is allocated over a ten-year period (including 3% escalation annually for inflation) 6 Lift Station cost is allocated over a ten-year period (including 3% escalation annually for inflation) SCADA is the acronymn for Supevisory Control and Data Acquisition A-19 Page 16 liiiQ PENCOENG Client Success is Our Success CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 Table B Projected Maximum Sewer Charge Rates by Zone Projected Sewer Charge Zone A B C D Maximum Rates Per ERU Year and Projected Rates Fiscal Year 2018-19 $173.61 $698.95 $235.64 $760.98 Fiscal Year 2019-20 $176.64 $711.18 $239.77 $774.30 Fiscal Year 2020-21 $179.74 $723.63 $243.96 $787.85 Fiscal Year 2021-22 $182.88 $736.29 $248.23 $801.63 Fiscal Year 2022-23 $186.08 $749.18 $252.58 $815.66 Projected rates are equal to the previous years rate plus escalation for inflation at a projected rate of 1.75% Table C Equivalent Residential Units by Zone Zone and Equivalent Residential Units Zone A 30.00 Zone C 37.82 Zone B 35.00 Zone D 27.00 Source: 2017-18 Abalone Cove Sewer Service Charge Annual Report Table D Maximum Projected Annual Sewer Charge Revenue by Zone Maximum Projected Revenue by Zone Zone 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 Zone and Projected Revenue Zone A Projection Zone B Projection Zone C Projection Zone D Projection $5,208 24,463 8,912 20,546 $5,299 24,891 9,068 20,906 $5,392 25,327 9,227 21,272 $5,486 25,770 9,388 21,644 $5,582 26,221 9,552 22,023 Maximum Projected Revenue $59,130 $60,165 $61,218 $62,289 $63,379 UNNAt Page 17 IPENCOENG CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES Client Success is our Success UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 Item 1. Attorney Work Product ALESHIRE & INTRA -OFFICE j V V i lei DERLLP MEMORANDUM ATTORNEY" ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT TO: Ron Dragoo, Principal Engineer FROM: Anne N. Lanphar; Joshua M. Min DATE: October 9, 2017 RE: Ownership of Abalone Cover Sewer System I. INTRODUCTION The City has asked our office to determine the ownership of the Abalone Cove sewer system based on certain documents sent to our office by Ron Dragoo, the Principal Engineer for the City. In addition to the documents provided, the Successor Agency's Long Range Property Management Plan ("LRPMP"), as well as the subsequent staff reports and agendas associated with the LRPMP, were also reviewed. The land commonly referred to as Abalone Cove Shoreline Park ("Abalone Cove") was acquired from the County of Los Angeles ("County") by the Rancho Palos Verdes Redevelopment Agency ("RDA") through an October 13, 1987 Reimbursement and Settlement Agreement concerning litigation over RDA's redevelopment plan ("Horan Settlement") among the County, RDA, and the City of Rancho Palos Verdes ("City"). The Horan Settlement also directed the County to issue $10 million in assessment bonds, a portion of the proceeds of which were to be given to the RDA to pay for the construction of landslide abatement improvements in the Abalone Cove area, which included construction of a sanitary sewer system. However, due to delays in the County's issuance 01203.0006/415439.1 A-21 Page 18 IPENCOENG CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES Client Success is our Success UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 Ownership of Abalone Cover Sewer ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT System October 9, 2017 Page 2 of the bonds until July 1991, the City made several loans to the RDA, some of which went towards the construction of the Abalone Cove sewer system. Despite the fact that the RDA used funds loaned from the City to pay for some of the construction of the sewer system, title to the Abalone Cove land was deeded from the County to the RDA, and the RDA owned and was responsible for the construction of the Abalone Cove sewer system, until the dissolution of the RDA and the transfer of RDA's property to the City as Successor Agency by operation of law. Subsequently, the Successor Agency submitted a LRPMP that included the transfer of Abalone Cove from the Successor Agency to the City. This LRPMP was approved by the Oversight Board of the Successor Agency, as well as the State Department of Finance, and the Abalone Cove property was transferred from the Successor Agency to the City by grant deed on or about February 10, 2015. City staff later discovered over 150 easements granted to the former RDA by private property owners specifically for the construction and maintenance of the Abalone Cove sewer system, and determined these easements needed to be assigned to the City as well. In or about September 2015, the Successor Agency's Oversight Board adopted a resolution to amend the Long Range Property Management Plan for the assignment and assumption of these easements to the City. However, the assignment and assumption agreement may have been insufficient to transfer the benefit of these easements to the City. Further review of these easements is ongoing to determine whether they were appurtenant easements, or easements in gross, as appurtenant easements would have 01203.0006/415439.1 A-22 Page 19 giiQ PENCOENG Client Success is Our Success CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 Ownership of Abalone Cover Sewer ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT System October 9, 2017 Page 3 transferred automatically to the City, whereas easements in gross will require the recordation of a deed from the Successor Agency to the City. II. ANALYSIS — TIMELINE OF EVENTS An overview of the relevant documents provided shows that title to the Abalone Cove land, and the sewer system, belonged to the RDA. 1987.10.13 Reimbursement and Settlement Aareement (Horan Settlement Aareeme -Section 7 of the Agreement states the County would deliver a deed to the real property, transferring to RDA all of its right, title, and interest to Abalone Cove, together with all improvements, fixtures, easements, and rights appurtenant thereto, in exchange for the consideration of $1.06 million. The City was to pay $545,000 of the consideration, and the RDA was entitled to possession of and title to the Abalone Cove property at the time of the City's $545,000 payment to County. -Section 3 of the Agreement states the total obligation to perform the landslide abatement improvement work was to be RDA's, and that neither the City nor the County had any obligations for the work, except to assure formation of the assessment districts and sale of the bonds. Section 3 also states the work was to be done in accordance with the recommendation of the Abalone Cove Panel of Experts -Part of the landslide abatement improvement work included the construction of the Abalone Cove sewer system. (See section 2.K ["Nothing herein shall be construed as preventing the City from forming an improvement district for the installation of sanitary sewers in all or any portion of the [Abalone Cove] area"]; 01203.0006/415439.1 A-23 Page 20 IPENCOENG CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES Client Success is our Success UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 Ownership of Abalone Cover Sewer ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT System October 9, 2017 Page 4 section 21 ["Nothing herein shall prevent the Abalone Cove Panel of Experts from exercising its independent judgment to order utilization of assessment proceeds for installation of sewers, house connections, sewer district connection charges, or any other sewer -related work to the extent permitted by law"].)' -A copy of the actual quitclaim deed conveying the Abalone Cove property to the RDA was not provided to our office. 1989.03.07 RDA Resolution 1989-006 Approving Loan from LA County -The RDA approved the issuance of a promissory note to the County for a $1.45m loan from the County to the RDA so the RDA could construct certain landslide abatement improvements, including a sanitary sewer preliminary study. (See section 2.5.) 1989.11.08 City Council Resolution 1989-106 Granting to County the Rights to Construct Landslide Improvements -The City Council granted the County the rights-of-way and acquisition, installation, and construction of landslide abatement improvements, including storm drains, water discharge facilities, individual drainage facilities, and sanitary sewers. However, the Resolution specifically stated the RDA was to design, construct, and install the landslide abatement improvements, and the County was to convey the 1 While section 2.J prevents the use of "Maintenance Funds" (a $1 m portion of the bond proceeds to be given to a Joint Powers Maintenance Authority consisting of the City and the RDA) from being used to maintain the sanitary sewers, the RDA could still use the bond proceeds to actually construct the sewer system, pursuant to section 2.K and 2.L. 01203.0006/415439.1 A-24 Page 21 PENCOENG CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES Client Success is our Success UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 Ownership of Abalone Cover Sewer ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT System October 9, 2017 Page 5 landslide abatement improvements and all easements and rights-of-way acquired in connection therewith to the RDA, or any successor entity thereto upon completion of such improvements. 1990.09.04 RDA Resolution 1990-019 Establishina Assessment Districts and Riahts to LA County for Improvements to Abalone Cove -The resolution approved the Agreement for Implementation of Stabilization Report between RDA and the County. Section 3 of the agreement stated the County shall convey the County Improvement District improvements (in the Abalone Cove area) and all easements and rights-of-way acquires in connection therewith to RDA or any successor entity thereto upon completion of such improvements. -A copy of the document actually conveying the improvements, easements, and rights-of-way was not provided to our office. 1992.05.05 RDA Staff Report re Repayment of Advances to RDA from City -Due to delays in the County's issuance of the $10 million in assessment bonds, the City had loaned RDA funds to construct landslide abatement improvements. After the County finally issued the bonds on July 25, 1991, these amounts could finally be repaid. 1999.05.18 City Council Staff Report re Amendment to Project Agreement for Abalone Cove -In 1973, the County had purchased Abalone Cove using a grant from the federal government, where the County entered into a "Project Agreement" with the State Department of Parks and Recreation, which included such requirements as using 01203.0006/415439.1 A-25 Page 22 PENCOENG CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES Client Success is our Success UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 Ownership of Abalone Cover Sewer ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT System October 9, 2017 Page 6 competitive bidding, maintaining the property for public use, etc. In January 1997, the County notified the City that when County transferred Abalone Cove to the RDA in 1988, it was necessary to execute an "Amendment to the Project Agreement" whereby RDA would assume the obligations of the Project Agreement, but such a document was never executed. -There is some confusion by this staff report's reference to the "City" instead of the "RDA," as while the background section of the staff report acknowledges that the County transferred the Abalone Cove property to the RDA, the Discussion sections repeatedly refers to the "City" as being the recipient of the Abalone Cove property, and how the "City" is to sign the Amendment to the Project Agreement assuming the obligations. This confusion is compounded by the fact that the City's letter to the Los Angeles County Department of Beaches and Harbors states that on May 18, 1999, the City Council authorized the Mayor to sign the Amendment. Further, a letter from the State Department of Parks and Recreation addressed to the City's Assistant City Manager states that the City of Rancho Palos Verdes will be the "grant recipient of record for the Abalone Cove project." This letter, however, does not mention ownership of the Abalone Cove property. 2003.07.01 City Council Staff Report re Loan Agreement Between City and RDA -This staff report references a loan of $12,000 made from the City to the RDA Abalone Cove Fund in Fiscal Year 2002-03 to complete sewer lateral installations for three properties, prepare as -built plans for the sewer system, and perform 01203.0006/415439.1 A-26 Page 23 PENCOENG CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES Client Success is our Success UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 Ownership of Abalone Cover Sewer ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT System October 9, 2017 Page 7 miscellaneous site restoration activities. The report does not state any transfer of ownership of the Abalone Cove property from the RDA to the City. 2003.12.02 City Council Staff Report re Fiscal Year 2003-04 and Consolidated Loan reement Between Citv and RDA -This staff report notes that the Abalone Cove sewer project was completed during Fiscal Year 2002-03 and the system is operational. With the completion of the sewer project, the RDA Abalone Cove Fund is completely depleted. 2013.09.18 Agenda for the Special Meeting of the Oversight Board of the Successor Agency to the RDA -The Long Range Property Management Plan ("LRPMP") for Abalone Cove notes that the RDA was dissolved on January 31, 2012, and the City elected to become the Successor Agency to the RDA. On February 1, 2012, the property of the former RDA was transferred to the Successor Agency by operation of law. The Plan also notes that title to all parcels comprising Abalone Cove was held by the RDA. -The LRPMP also makes reference to an easement agreement entered into between the City and the RDA on May 3, 2011 which purportedly shows the City has been operating a park on these properties, and which granted to the City an easement in perpetuity "on, in, over and across the Abalone Cove property for operation of the City -operated park facilities and related structures; construction, maintenance or repair of public facilities, including but not limited to ... sewers." -While we do not have a copy of this May 3, 2011 easement agreement, we do have an April 18, 1989 staff report regarding an operational agreement between 01203.0006/415439.1 A-27 Page 24 PENCOENG CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES Client Success is our Success UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 Ownership of Abalone Cover Sewer ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT System October 9, 2017 Page 8 the RDA and the City, which states that the City will operate the park and the parking facilities, but that RDA would still own the property. Further, while this LRPMP states the May 3, 2011 easement agreement references "City -operated park facilities... including... sewers," it does not reference the ownership of such sewers. Reviewing the May 3, 2011 easement agreement could give more insight. 2015.02.04 Aaenda Packet re Abalone Cove Sewer Svstem Easements -The staff report, and the attached proposed resolution, notes that the Oversight Board of the Successor Agency ("SA") approved the LRPMP on or about September 18, 2013 by adopting Resolution No. 2013-08. Subsequently, the California State Department of Finance approved it as well through a letter dated April 25, 2014. The plan included the conveyance of Abalone Cove from the SA to the City. -Additionally, the Report notes that the staff had been investigating certain easements across private properties that were conveyed to the RDA so the RDA could construct the Abalone Cove sewer system 2015.09.01 Staff ReDort re Assianment and AssumDtion Aareement Between SA and C -The staff report recommends the city council approve an assignment and assumption agreement between the SA and the City, whereby the easements granted to the former RDA for the construction of the Abalone Cove sewer system are assigned to and assumed by the City. The report is accompanied by an extensive spreadsheet listing all of these easements, specifically stating the purpose was for access to or construction of a sewer system. 01203.0006/415439.1 A-28 Page 25 PENCOENG CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES Client Success is our Success UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 Ownership of Abalone Cover Sewer ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT System October 9, 2017 Page 9 2015.09.09 Agenda Packet re Conveyance of Abalone Cove to City -The agenda packet shows the Oversight Board of the SA approved Resolution No. OB 2015-01 authorizing conveyance of Governmental Use Property (which includes Abalone Cove) to the City. 2016.01.26 Agenda Packet re Assignment and Assumption Agreement Between SA and Citv -The packet shows the Oversight Board of the SA adopted Resolution No. OB 2015-04 approving amendments to the LRPMP and the execution and delivery of the assignment and assumption agreement between SA and the City regarding the easements once held by the former RDA for the construction of the Abalone Cove Sewer System. III. CONCLUSION Despite the confusion concerning the Amendment to the Project Agreement, all other records provided to our office indicate that title to Abalone Cove, and ownership and construction of the Abalone Cove sewer system, belonged to the RDA. Specifically, The documents confirm that the sewer system would have been conveyed to the RDA by the County after the County had finished constructing its improvements to the sewer system. The LRPMP also confirms that title to the Abalone Cove property was held by the RDA, and that all property of the RDA was transferred to the Successor Agency by operation of law on February 1, 2012. 01203.0006/415439.1 A-29 Page 26 PENCOENG CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES Client Success is our Success UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 Ownership of Abalone Cover Sewer ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT System October 9, 2017 Page 10 The LRPMP's reference to a May 3, 2011 easement agreement that describes the sewers as "City -operated," while not definitively stating the City owns the sewer system, does create some ambivalence as to the former RDA's ownership of the sewer system. Review of this May 3, 2011 easement agreement may provide more insight. However, this confusion is mooted by the staff reports and agendas regarding the LRPMP's treatment of the Abalone Cove property, including the sewer system, as they show that the LRPMP's transfer of the entirety of Abalone Cove to the City was approved by the SA's Oversight Board, and the State Department of Finance. Finally, while the City was assigned numerous easements once belonging to the former RDA for the construction of the Abalone Cove sewer system, further review of these easements is necessary and ongoing to determine if the easements were automatically transferred to the City, or if the SA must execute a deed transferring the easements to the City. 01203.0006/415439.1 A-30 Page 27 liiiQ PENCOENG CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES ntSuccessisOurSuccess UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE W E December 5, 2017 Item 2. Abalone Cove Sewer Needs Assessment SYSTEM SUMMARY The Abalone Cove Sewer System was designed with consideration given to land movement associated with a landslide. In general the system appears to be a relatively good designed system with operational issues associated with any aging sewer system. The following assessment is to identify the issues that require attention, however this assessment does not extend to land movement and erosion. Most of the components of the Abalone Cove Sewer System pipes, manholes, pump stations electrical components, grinder pumps, low-pressure lateral lines, etc. are located in easements on private property. Grinder pumps and the lateral lines that convey waste to the shared waste lines are located on private property within easements, when the system was installed. Property owner modifications to landscaping or other improvements may have caused these lateral lines to be moved outside of their easements. The remainder of the waste collected by the entire system is carried in pipes located in easements. The primary conveyance pipe enters the public right of way, at the western edge of Wayfarers Chapel, and continues across and along Palos Verdes Drive South to the Ab Cove pump station. From there waste is pumped to the Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles. The system was brought on-line (became operational) in 2001 which is when the City Council established the annual maintenance fee for the system which is used to perform required maintenance on the system. PIPELINES Several different systems exist within the Abalone Cove Sewer System including lift stations that use pumps connected to force mains which carry waste through pressurized cast iron pipes. Galvanized metal pipes carry low pressure waste from grinder pumps to the gravity system. Stainless steel lines connect the galvanized pipes to polyethylene plastic pipe to allow movement between the ridged galvanized pipes in the landslide. Polyethylene plastic pipes are used to carry waste from the grinder pumps to the low pressure galvanized pipe. The gravity pipes carry waste downhill and collect waste directly from some homes, force mains, galvanized pipes and are accessible through manholes. Approximately 2,505 feet of force mains are included in the system. Cast iron pipes (CIP - CL 52) are used in varying in sizes from 3 inches to 6 inches in the force main system. The galvanized metal pipes vary in size from 2 inches to 3 inches and account for approximately 12,815 feet of the low pressure system. Approximately 35, 10 foot long braided stainless steel connectors are located between the galvanized pipes to allow for landslide movement The approximate length of the remainder of the low pressure system piping uses Polyethylene Plastic Pipes (PE) varying in size from 1.25 inches to 4 inches is approximately 6,800 feet. Approximately 19,000 feet of polyvinylchloride pipe (PVC) was installed to convey gravity flows. The system operates in this hilly area of the city using lift stations to transmit the waste with high powered lifting pumps to the gravity portion of the system. The low pressure grinder pumps transmit waste to the galvanized system or to a manhole. The grinder pumps lift waste from homes through PE to a manhole or to the galvanized metal pipes where the waste is routed (using braided stainless steel connecters to allow movement in the ridged galvanized pipe system) to the gravity system. Above Ground Pipelines: Some above ground pipes have required maintenance recently due to land movement and age. Specifically some of the galvanized pressure lines, which run above ground, are showing noticeable exterior corrosion and have been replaced. A visual inspection of these piAs.34 Page 28 liiiQ PENCOENG CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES ntSuccessisOurSuccess UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE W E December 5, 2017 revealed significant deposits on the interior of the pipes. These deposits reduce the available volume within a pipe to transfer materials. Additionally, some of the pipes appear to be reacting with the native soil in some areas where some pipe wall thicknesses are reduced. This pipe wall diameter reduction can lead to reduced pipe strength and can result in pipes that are susceptible to failure. The existing above ground galvanized pipe network should be mapped and the galvanized pipes within that network should be replaced with a flexible material. Replacement costs for the above ground system will be dependent of the materials chosen for the replacement which could include alternative materials like polyethylene pipe (PE) which is both flexible and readily available. The current planning level construction cost estimate to replace the entire 12,815 foot system including removal and disposal of the existing material would range between $230,000 and $346,000. Braided Stainless Steel Lines: The above ground pipeline system was designed to accommodate ground movement through the use of braided stainless steel flexible lines. As the ground moves the above ground pipes move with the land. In areas where the pipes need to move closer together or further apart due to the land movement the pipes can move with the ground and the movement is accommodated by the flexible lines. Many of these above ground pipes and the flexible lines have become stretched tight with no or little room for additional movement. This condition needs to be addresses. The cost of the stainless steel lines is extensive, accordingly less expense flexible lines could be identified and added to the existing braided stainless steel lines to provide additional flexibility to the system to accommodate ground movement. The existing stainless steel flexible line network should be mapped and the stainless steel flexible lines with less than 1 foot of movement remaining should be replaced. Replacement costs for the flexible lines will be dependent of the materials chosen for the replacement, which could include alternative materials like hydraulic hose, which is both very flexible and readily available. Currently 14 sections of braided stainless steel flexible lines require replacement. The current planning level construction cost estimate to replace the 14 sections which measure a total of approximately 140 feet would range between $6,000 and $18,000. Grinder pump laterals: Grinder pump laterals are routed both above ground and underground. These pipelines use Polyethylene Plastic Pipe (PE) pipe to discharge effluent directly into the gravity lines, or into manholes or connect to the above ground galvanized pipelines. These pipelines vary in size from 1.25" to 4". Ground movement has not been an issue with these pipelines to date. The pipelines are flexible, but if ground movement requires additional length problems could result. Accordingly, a modification to the existing system to accommodate ground movement is recommended. The modification could be as basic as adding a switchback style length of PE to provide the additional length to the pipe that may be needed to accommodate ground movement. The system includes forty-five residential grinder pumps that would benefit from extending the PE. The planning level construction cost estimate to perform this work is estimated to range from $8,700 to $10,500. Gravity Pipelines: The gravity mainline pipes were constructed using polyvinyl chloride (PVC) SDR 35 pipe; the Wyes are 8 inch by 4 inch. Although life expectancy is very good, they are susceptible to land movement and could crack at the bell or pull apart without anyone knowing. The system was installed beginning in 2000 and the performance of the gravity mainline system has not been compromised due to land movement or other impediments in the area. An ongoing maintenance program which includes video inspecting the entire system on alternating years has been in place since 2013. The cost of the last video inspection performed in early 2017 was $55,307. A-32 Page 29 giiQ PENCOENG CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES ntSuccessisOurSuccess UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE W E December 5, 2017 Recommendations: Operations: • Map all above ground pipelines and create a working GIS layer for this asset which can include maintenance information vital to accommodate mandated reporting requirements. Visually inspect all exposed pipelines for undue strain due to land -movement etc. Remove and replace the existing above ground pipeline system. Develop plans and specifications for an above ground pipeline replacement project possibly using ANSI/ASTM D2239, Polyethylene plastic pipe (PE) as the replacement pipe, and develop a programming level cost estimate for the project. Extend the PE at grinder pumps. Establish a monitoring program to evaluate differential land movement which may affect underground pipes within the system. The existing underground PVC pipes are currently water tight, however land movement may affect this condition. An annual monitoring program could be incorporated into the City's existing Landslide GPS monitoring program. Estimated range of costs - $6000 - $11,000. The system was installed 16 -years ago. Continuing the current video inspection program will provide early warning signs of system distress. Corrective action can be undertaken if needed. The video record will be a good indicator of how the PVC pipes will perform over the next 16 -years. Estimated range of costs on an annual basis - $27,500 - $37,500. Programming Level Cost Estimate for Pipelines: It is important to note that cost estimates developed at this stage of system analysis are provided as a guideline only. Programming level cost estimates are anticipated to evolve during the mapping and development of construction documents stages of the work. The following is a summary of the information presented above: Above ground pipelines: Soft Costs- Estimated costs for the: GPS mapping of existing system $14,000, design of the replacement construction documents for the above ground pipelines including preparation of plans specifications and estimates $85,000, construction management and inspection services $22,500. Estimated construction Costs to remove/dispose of existing galvanized pipe and installation of 12,815 LF of PE pipe is estimated to be in the range of $230,000 to 346,000. The range of construction costs to extend the grinder pump lateral lines and replace the braided stainless steel lines is estimated to be $20,000 to$38,500. GPS Monitoring: a program would need to be develop with the City's surveyor who performs the GPS monitoring; monitoring the additional points would add between $6,800 to 11,000 to the existing monitoring costs. Video inspection/cleaning: the estimated range of costs annually to perform video inspections and cleaning of the gravity system every other year is $27,500 - $37,500. MANHOLES A manhole is the top opening to an underground utility vault which is used as an access point for making connections, inspection, adjustments or performing maintenance on an underground sewer system. The Abalone Cove Sewer System installed 71 manhole access points. The manholes were constructed g Page 30 liiiQ PENCOENG CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES ntSuccessisOurSuccess UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE W E December 5, 2017 pre -fabricated steel reinforced concrete stacking rings, a collar and a customized base where the sewer pipe is accessible and passes through the base of the manhole. This manhole design is typical and used in most areas of the country, however local areas of roots from vegetation soon began to penetrate the manholes and impact the transmission of waste water as intended. Ground water could also enter the system at the manholes during rain events if significant rains were experienced. This condition was recognized and a project to minimize root intrusion and possible ground water inflow was developed. Manholes were cleaned of roots and debris, spalled concrete was repaired and each manhole in the system was lined with a minimum 80mil coating of a spray -on epoxy coating. The epoxy prevents water from entering or exiting the manhole, and creates a barrier between the gasses in the sewer system and the concrete. This treatment will minimize root intrusion and concrete spalling caused through interaction between the concrete and the gasses in the sewer system and prevent water from entering the system at manholes. Recommendation: • Inspect manholes when the pipes in the system are cleaned and video inspected approximately every two years and repair any failing epoxy areas as they are discovered. Programming Level Cost Estimate for Manholes: The cost of this activity is expected to be minimal, however for this planning level effort repairs to the epoxy coating are anticipated to cost $5,000 annually. Manhole inspection and cleaning could add between $10,000 and $15,000 annually to the pipeline video inspection/cleaning program. GRINDER PUMP SYSTEMS The topography of the Abalone Cove Sewer System required the inclusion of several small pumps to provide service to approximately 45 single family residences. These grinder pumps are placed in series (all pumps are connected to a single pipe line) configuration to transmit waste through above ground PE pipes to a gravity area of the system. Some of the grinder pump systems connect to the gravity portion of the system at manholes; other grinder pump systems are connected to the above ground galvanized pressure line system. The lateral and transmission pipes associated with the grinder pumps are located in easements on private property. The grinder pump system is a very expensive part of the system to maintain. The grinder pumps used in this system is an E -one sewer systems pump capable of delivering a 9GPM flow at total dynamic head of 138 feet. The model GP 2010 grinder pump was originally specified for use in the system. Replacement pumps purchased from e -one have been modified by the company improving the reliability and operation of the pumps. Staff has noticed that many of the grinder pumps which lift waste over 40 vertical feet seem to have ongoing maintenance problems and some specific properties seem to experience operational failures more regularly than others. The grinder pumps come with a 2 year manufacturer's warranty. The warranty period is an industry standard and is to be expected for small sewage pumps with similar ratings. It is typical for an a -one pump to have a service life of approximately seven to ten years. However, due to service requirements, the pumps at some locations require replacement at 3 to 4 year intervals. The Abalone Cove Sewer System includes a total of 47 grinder pump stations (two provide service to the beach school at Abalone Cove), some of which experience considerably more stress through higher lifting requirements than others. The following are some of the larger systems: F.109114 Page 31 liiiQ PENCOENG Client Success is Our Success CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 • Beach -House to PVDS (non-residential) - Duplex grinder Pumps are located at two stations for this system: Total head of 124 feet (84 feet plus 40 feet) —This is a substantial vertical distance for these pumps to lift the wastewater and could be problematic. • Vanderlip Estates 10 -grinder pumps—This is a low pressure system with relatively low lift requirements. • Pomegranate to Sweetbay 3 -grinder pumps — Lift of about 30 -feet vertically. • Narcissa 6 -grinder pumps — Lift of about 30 -feet vertically. • Figtree and Narcissa 20 -grinder pumps — Lift of about 78 -feet vertically (Many pump failures are associated with pumps that lift waste over 40 feet). The current cost of a replacement a -one pump runs about $2,500, installation costs are approximately $700. Staff time associated with diagnosis and replacement of grinder pumps average 8 hours per failed grinder pump. The in -ground grinder pump -stations are constructed of HDPE and so are corrosion resistant. Each grinder pump sump has a storage of approximately 47 gallons before the high water alarm is activated with an assumed 10 gallons of additional storage before the sealed units are completely full. Recommendations: • Replace each pump at a specific time interval with a new unit. This program could begin with 10 units per year being replaced. Accordingly all pumps could be replaced within a five year period. • Establish a maintenance program which, as a minimum, provides for annual inspections of the electrical connections for all pumps, replaces all corroded components, and would require bearings to be lubricated in an effort to extend the useful life of the grinder pumps. • Develop an agreement with property owners that will facilitate the transfer of ownership of the pumps, and the associated lateral lines that connect to the transmission pipes, to the property owners. This would result in lowering the maintenance cost of the low pressure system which would directly reduce costs to property owners that use a grinder pump to transmit waste through the system. It is uncommon for a City to maintain sewage ejector (grinder) pumps. • Consider installing a new lift station to relieve the stress on grinder pumps and improve the reliability of the system to consistently lift waste at the Narcissa/Figtree grinder pump leg of the system. Programming Level Cost Estimate for Grinder Pumps: A grinder pump replacement program is estimated to cost $32,000 per year. Servicing grinder pumps twice a year is estimated to cost between $70,500 and $94,000 per year. The installation of a new lift station will require easements, environmental evaluation, design and construction of a new system. The estimated range of costs to install a new lift station is $650,000 to $800,000. Page 32 liiiQ PENCOENG Client Success is Our Success LIFT STATIONS CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 The Abalone Cove Sewer System includes four large lift stations. Of the existing lift stations, the two larger lift stations (Sweetbay / Altimira and Ab Cove) have been converted to allow use of 3-phase electrical power for the duplex 10hp pumps. The remaining two smaller lift stations (Thyme and Sweetbay East) operate using the originally installed electrical system, which provides single-phase power to the duplex 7%hp pumps. The technical information associated with each pump station follows: • Thyme: Storage capacity after alarm: 1,470 gal — Services 12 connections (Head of 60'), single phase electrical 7%hp alternating duplex pumps. • Sweetbay East: Storage capacity after alarm: 1,543 gal — Services 16 connections (Head of 29'), single phase electrical 7%hp alternating duplex pumps. • Sweetbay / Altimira: Storage capacity after alarm: 510 gal — this pump station has very limited spare capacity! Services 30 connections: Head of 74' Consider adding additional storage capacity to this lift station, 3-phase electrical 10hp alternating duplex pumps. • Ab Cove: Storage capacity after alarm: 6,400 gal: Services the entire system including 110 single family homes connections, 1 church, 1 School/nursery, 1 shower/toilets. (Head of 68), 3-phase electrical 10hp alternating duplex pumps. It is assumed that the system was designed to accommodate the 180 parcels that are included in the district. Currently 113 are connected to the system, 67 are undeveloped. Los Angeles County Department of Public Works Sewer Maintenance Division used 260 gallons of waste per house per day as a planning number when estimating sewer flow needs. Accordingly if the developed properties connected to the Abalone Cove System delivered a uniformed amount of waste 16 hours a day the waste flow is approximately 17 gallons per hour. However, residential flow usually has peak flows associated with morning and evening activities preparing for the day, showering etc., and returning home when the evening meal is prepared, and laundry is washed. Residential flow connections produce an average of 17 gal/hour over the 16 hour period, however when considering peak flow rates this number could be doubled resulting in higher peak flow rates. Storage at lift stations after the alarm is triggered as follows: • Thyme can accommodate approximately 5.5 hours of peak hour flow before a spill; • East Sweetbay can accommodate approximately 4.3 hours of peak hour flow before a spill; • Sweetbay / Altamira can accommodate approximately 1.2 hour of peak hour flow before a spill; • Abalone Cove Pump Station can accommodate less than 2.3 hours of peak hour flow before a spill. Recommendations: • Consider installing additional storage capacity to provide at least 6 -hours capacity to allow time for responders to fix or replace pumps, or in the case of a power failure. Establish a basic standard for the lift pump models and phase the standard pumps into service. A basic requirement is that the pumps should be interchangeable. This would allow for a single spare pump of each size to be stored to serve as a replacement for the 4 -pumps needed to operate each of the same size lift stations. A-36 Page 33 liiiQ PENCOENG Client Success is Our Success CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES UPDATE STUDY - ABALONE COVE SEWER MAINTENANCE FEE December 5, 2017 • Consider lining the pump -wells with a CIPP liner or epoxy coating to ensure that they are waterproof. • Install an SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) based alarm system at each of the four lift stations that will enable real time notification of system problems and failures. A lift station based SCADA system will minimize the probability of overflows at the lift stations. • Post a clear notification system at each pump -station, detailing who to call when an audible or visual alarm is activated • Place electrical wiring schematics and instructions on how to replace the lift station pumps in a folder inside each lift station. • Convert the two smaller lift stations at Thyme and East Sweetbay to accommodate three phase pumps. • Establish a maintenance program to address the following at minimum: o Lubricate and test lift station pumps and the overall operation of each lift station's system in general, including air/vac valves, corp stops etc. on a scheduled roster. o Replace each pump at a specific time interval with a serviced or new exchange unit. This must be done in a cycle that allows each pump station to have the oldest and newest pump in the same pump station at any time. o Inspect the electrical connections for all of the pumps. o Test the stand-by generator at Abalone Cove and check the quantity of the remaining fuel. Programming Level Cost Estimate for Grinder Pumps: Additional storage at the lift stations will provide a safeguard in preventing overflows. The estimated range of costs to increase storage is: Thyme — $16,500 to $22,000 Ease Sweetbay $37,000 to $55,000 Sweetbay/Altimura $65,000 to $77,000 Abalone Cove $86,000 to $98,500 The estimated cost to purchase new lift station pumps and 2 spare pumps is $31,500. The estimated range of costs to install epoxy coating lining at all four lift stations is $18,000 to $30,000. The estimated range of costs to install SCADA at four lift stations is $46,000 to 62,000. The estimated range of costs of converting 2 lift stations to operate on 3 phase power is $50,000 to $75,000. The initial cost of establishing a preventative maintenance program that will include the items described above is estimated to cost between $62,000 and $80,000. The ongoing cost of a PM program is estimated to cost between $20,000 and 30,000 per year. A-37 Page 34