CC SR 20240903 01 - Landslide Moratorium Extension and Temporary Housing Regulations
PUBLIC HEARING
Date: September 3, 2024
Subject:
Consideration and possible action to extend the construction moratorium and establish temporary
home hardening and alternative housing regulations within the greater Portuguese Bend Landslide
Complex.
Recommendation:
(1) Adopt Urgency Ordinance No. __U, AN INTERIM URGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA, EXTENDING THE MORATORIUM ON THE ACCEPTANCE
OR PROCESSING OF APPLICATIONS, ISSUANCE OF PERMITS, AND CONSTRUCTION OF ALL
STRUCTURES WITHIN THE PORTUGUESE BEND LANDSLIDE COMPLEX ADOPTED BY ORDINANCE
674U AND EXTENDED BY ORDINANCE 675U, FOR AN ADDITIONAL 12 MONTHS, EXPIRING
OCTOBER 2, 2025; and
(2) Adopt Urgency Ordinance No. __ U AN URGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING REGULATIONS AND
PROCEDURES TO INSTALL TEMPORARY MEASURES TO PRESERVE EXISTING STRUCTURES AND
TO AUTHORIZE TEMPORARY HOUSING ON THE SAME SITE AS AN EXISTING RESIDENCE,
WITHIN THE PORTUGUES BEND LANDSLIDE COMPLEX.
1. Report of Notice Given: City Clerk
2. Declare Public Hearing Open: Mayor Cruikshank
3. Request for Staff Report: Mayor Cruikshank
4. Staff Report & Recommendation: Brandy Forbes, Director of Community Development
5. Council Questions of Staff (factual and without bias):
6. Testimony from members of the public:
The normal time limit for each speaker is three (3) minutes. The Presiding Officer may grant additional time to a representative speaking
for an entire group. The Mayor also may adjust the time limit for individual speakers depending upon the number of speakers who
intend to speak.
7. Declare Hearing Closed/or Continue the Public Hearing to a later date: Mayor Cruikshank
8. Council Deliberation:
The Council may ask staff to address questions raised by the testimony, or to clarify matters. Staff and/or Council may also answer
questions posed by speakers during their testimony. The Council will then debate and/or make motions on the matter.
9. Council Action:
The Council may: vote on the item; offer amendments or substitute motions to decide the matter; reopen the hearing for additional
testimony; continue the matter to a later date for a decision.
RANCHO PALOS VERDES
CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: 09/03/2024
AGENDA REPORT AGENDA HEADING: Public Hearing
AGENDA TITLE:
Consideration and possible action to extend the construction moratorium and establish
temporary home hardening and alternative housing regulations within the greater
Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex.
RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:
(1) Adopt Urgency Ordinance No. __U, AN INTERIM URGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA, EXTENDING THE
MORATORIUM ON THE ACCEPTANCE OR PROCESSING OF APPLICATIONS,
ISSUANCE OF PERMITS, AND CONSTRUCTION OF ALL STRUCTURES WITHIN
THE PORTUGUESE BEND LANDSLIDE COMPLEX ADOPTED BY ORDINANCE
674U AND EXTENDED BY ORDINANCE 675U, FOR AN ADDITIONAL 12 MONTHS,
EXPIRING OCTOBER 2, 2025; and
(2) Adopt Urgency Ordinance No. __U AN URGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA,
ESTABLISHING REGULATIONS AND PROCEDURES TO INSTALL TEMPORARY
MEASURES TO PRESERVE EXISTING STRUCTURES AND TO AUTHORIZE
TEMPORARY HOUSING ON THE SAME SITE AS AN EXISTING RESIDENCE,
WITHIN THE PORTUGUES BEND LANDSLIDE COMPLEX.
FISCAL IMPACT: Unknown
Amount Budgeted: N/A
Additional Appropriation: N/A
Account Number(s): N/A
ORIGINATED BY: Brandy Forbes, AICP, Community Development Director
REVIEWED BY: Elena Gerli, City Attorney
APPROVED BY: Ara Mihranian, AICP, City Manager
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
A. Interim Urgency Ordinance No. ___U – Construction Moratorium (Page A-1)
B. Interim Urgency Ordinance No. U - Temporary Home Hardening and
Alternative Housing (Page B-1)
C. Resolution No. 2023-47 declaring a state of local emergency within the greater
Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex, adopted October 3, 2023
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RANCHO PALOS VERDES
D. Interim Urgency Ordinance No. 674U prohibiting new construction within the
greater Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex, adopted October 3, 2023
E. November 6, 2023 California Department of Housing and Community
Development letter of approval (Page E-1)
F. November 7, 2023 10-day Report on Interim Urgency Ordinance No.674U
(Page F-1)
G. Interim Urgency Ordinance No. 675U extending the prohibition on new
construction within the greater Portuguese Bend Landslide Com plex until
October 2, 2024, adopted November 14, 2023
H. August 20, 2024 10-day Report on Interim Urgency Ordinance No. 675U
BACKGROUND:
On October 3, 2023, City Council conducted a discussion regarding the circumstances of
the landslide areas. After considering information presented that evening, including public
testimony, the City Council unanimously adopted Resolution No. 2023-47 declaring the
existence of a local emergency within the geographic boundaries of the Landslide
Complex and adopted Interim Urgency Ordinance No. 674U, to establish a 45-day
moratorium on the acceptance or processing of applications, issuance of permits, and
construction of all structures within the Landslide Complex (the “Moratorium”).
At a public hearing on November 14, 2023, City Council adopted Interim Urgency
Ordinance No. 675U extending the Moratorium for an additional 10 months and 15 days.
As that extension is set to expire on October 2, 2024, City Council received and filed a
“10-day report” on August 20, 2024, explaining the measures taken to alleviate the
conditions that led to the adoption of the urgency ordinance and the continued need for
the moratorium.
Additionally, on July 2, 2024, City Council directed City Staff to explore options for interim
housing solutions within the Landslide Complex to both preserve existing structures and
allow the installation of temporary housing.
This agenda item requests for City Council to adopt an Urgency Ordinance extending the
prohibition on new construction within the Greater Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex
until October 2, 2025 and adopt Urgency Ordinance establishing regulations and
procedures to install temporary measures to preserve existing structures and to authorize
temporary housing on the same site as the current residence within the landslide
complex.
DISCUSSION:
1. Urgency Ordinance Extending Construction Moratorium
As an urgent action, Interim Urgency Ordinance No. 674U was adopted by the City
Council on October 3, 2023 for a 45-day timeframe. Per Government Code § 65858, after
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notice pursuant to Section 65090 and a public hearing, the legislative body may extend
the interim ordinance for 10 months and 15 days and subsequently extend the interim
ordinance for one additional year. Any extension shall require a four-fifths vote for
adoption. Not more than two extensions may be adopted, for a total of 24 months.
Government Code Section 66300(b)(1)(B) provides that “with respect to land where
housing is an allowable use, . . . an affected city shall not enact a development policy,
standard, or condition that would have [the effect of . . .] imposing a moratorium or similar
restriction or limitation on housing development, including mixed-use development, within
all or a portion of the jurisdiction of the affected . . . city, other than to specifically protect
against an imminent threat to the health and safety of pe rsons residing in, or within the
immediate vicinity of, the area subject to the moratorium”.
The statute further provides that the City may not enforce such a moratorium on housing
until the ordinance has been submitted to, and the City has received approval from , the
California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD). The City
submitted the urgency ordinance to HCD on October 5, 2023. The ordinance did go into
immediate effect for non-housing related projects, while the City awaited HCD’s review.
On November 6, 2023, the California Department of Housing and Community
Development issued a letter of approval (Attachment E) during the effective period of 45
days from its adoption and its planned extension for up to 22 months and 15 days by the
City of Rancho Palos Verdes, allowing this Moratorium to be effective for a total of 24
months.
Government Code Section 65858(d) requires that “[t]en days prior to the expiration of that
interim ordinance or any extension, the legislative body shall issue a written report
describing the measures taken to alleviate the condition which led to the adopt ion of the
ordinance.” A report was issued on November 7, 2023, ten days prior to the expiration of
the initial Interim Urgency Ordinance 674U (Attachment F).
On November 14, 2023, City Council conducted a public hearing and adopted Interim
Urgency Ordinance No. 675U, extending the Moratorium by the required four-fifths vote
for an additional 10 months and 15 days, expiring October 2, 2024.
As the expiration date of the first extension is approaching, Staff issued a ”10-day report”
for the second extension on August 20, 2024 , and City Council received and filed the
report on that date. That “10-day report” provided significant background on the measures
taken to alleviate the conditions that led to the adoption of the urgency ordinance. As well,
the report demonstrated the continued need for the moratorium.
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt the attached Interim Urgency Ordinance
extending the building moratorium until October 2, 2025 (Attachment A).
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2. Urgency Ordinance Temporary Housing Solutions
Pursuant to City Council direction on July 2, 2024 responding to public concerns
regarding the land movement’s impacts on residences, City Staff explored options for
interim housing solutions within the Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex. Staff has
worked collaboratively with the community to preserve existing structures within the
landslide complex and consider potential options for temporary housing including
hardening and stabilizing existing structures.
Examples of hardening and stabilizing solutions to preserve existing structures may
include, but are not limited to, placing homes on cargo structures and other leveling
systems such as I-beams and installing alternative foundation systems to help maintain
the integrity of the structure as the land shifts. These measures would be temporary,
require a permit to be issued by the Building and Safety Division, and need the owner to
hold the City harmless. The structure could be occupied if it has adequate ingre ss/egress,
utility connections and service, and fire department access.
For temporary housing, this may include temporary structures such as mobile homes that
would not require a foundation. The temporary housing would be on the same site as the
current residence. These structures would be temporary and require a permit issued by
Building and Safety Division and need the owner to hold the City harmless. The temporary
housing would require a stable location (City Geologist’s review), adequate
ingress/egress, above ground utility connections and service, fire department access, and
no major filling.
All temporary housing and storage, as well as stabilizing solutions to shore up existing
structures, may be utilized within the Landslide Complex until December 31, 2026, unless
extended by the City Council. All temporary measures must be approved by the City’s
Building Official to ensure safety.
Staff have prepared the attached Urgency Ordinance (Attachment B) that outlines the
development standards that would be applied to these temporary housing solutions.
Adoption of this Urgency Ordinance would be required to implement them.
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt the attached Interim Urgency Ordinance
establishing regulations and procedures to install temporary measures to preserve
existing structures within the landslide complex and to authorize temporary housing on
the same site as the current residence in the landslide (Attachment B).
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Public Notice
Public hearing notice was published in the Palos Verdes Peninsula News on August 15,
2024. Courtesy notices were also mailed on August 22, 2024 to the residents within the
Greater Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex. Information about the public hearing was
distributed through the City’s Listserv and posted on the City’s website.
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In response to the public notice, the City has received no comments from the public as
of the posting of the agenda. Any comments received after the transmittal of this agenda
report will be provided to the City Council as later correspondence.
Emergency Exceptions to the Requirements of CEQA
The Interim Urgency Ordinance extending the Moratorium is categorically exempt
pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act, Section 15061(b)(3). The Interim
Urgency Ordinance is exempt because it proposes to impose a moratorium on all
construction on properties within the Greater Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex and it
can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have
a significant effect on the environment. This Interim Urgency Ordinance is proposed to
protect the environment by preventing the exacerbation of existing unstable geologic
conditions caused by activities related to new construction and therefore is categorically
exempt from CEQA pursuant to CEQA Guidelines, Section 15308; none of the exceptions
to this exemption set forth in CEQA Guidelines, Section 15300.2 apply to this Interim
Urgency Ordinance.
As well, both Interim Urgency Ordinances are proposed to address and mitigate an
imminent threat to public health and safety and therefore are exempt from CEQA pursuant
to Public Resources Code, Section 21080(b)(4) and CEQA Guidelines, Section 15269.
CONCLUSION:
Based on the above discussion, the City Council is being asked to consider extending the
construction (building) moratorium to October 2, 2025. City Council is also being
requested to consider adopting an Urgency Ordinance establishing regulations and
procedures to install temporary measures to preserve existing structures within the
landslide complex and to authorize temporary housing on the same site as the current
residence in the landslide.
ALTERNATIVES:
In addition to Staff’s discussed option, the following alternative actions are available for
the City Council’s consideration:
1. Receive and file this report and take no other action.
2. Take other action as the Council deems appropriate.
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ORDINANCE NO. ____U
AN INTERIM URGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF RANCHO
PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA, EXTENDING THE MORATORIUM ON
THE ACCEPTANCE OR PROCESSING OF APPLICATIONS FOR AND
ISSUANCE OF PERMITS, AND CONSTRUCTION OF ALL
STRUCTURES WITHIN THE PORTUGUESE BEND LANDSLIDE
COMPLEX ADOPTED BY ORDINANCE 674U AND EXTENDED BY
ORDINANCE 675U, FOR AN ADDITIONAL 12 MONTHS, EXPIRING
OCTOBER 2, 2025
WHEREAS, the City of Rancho Palos Verdes is affected by three large active
landslides : the Portuguese Bend Landslide (the PBL), the Abalone Cove Landslide (the
ACL), and the Klondike Canyon Landslide (the KCL) (collectively, the Landslides), and
are part of the Greater Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex (the Landslide Complex).
The Landslide Complex (depicted in Exhibit A) is comprised of an ancient landslide that
measures upwards of 680 acres, and which extends beyond the boundaries of the
individual Landslides.
WHEREAS, the Landslides have been active since the 1950s and have moved at
different rates at different times. the ACL and KCL have been managed, respectively, by
the Abalone Cove Landslide Abatement District (ACLAD) and the Klondike Canyon
Hazard Abatement District (KCHAD) (collectively, the Districts).
WHEREAS, since May of 2023, the land movement in the Landslide Complex has
increased significantly, and until recently has been accelerating at an exponential rate.
WHEREAS, Government Code Section 65858 expressly authorizes the City
Council to adopt an Interim Urgency Ordinance for the immediate preservation of the
public peace, health, or safety, if the ordinance is approved by four-fifths of the City
Council.
WHEREAS, Section 65858(f) provides that “…upon termination of a prior interim
ordinance, the legislative body may adopt another interim ordinance pursuant to this
section provided that the new interim ordinance is adopted to protect the public safety,
health, and welfare from an event, occurrence, or set of circumstances different from the
event, occurrence, or set of circumstances that led to the adoption of the prior interim
ordinance.”
WHEREAS, in 2005, the City Council of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes adopted
Interim Urgency Ordinance No. 427U, which halted construction and the issuance of
permits on a portion of the Klondike Canyon Landslide, based on increased movement
following an unusually wet winter. The moratorium was extended by Interim Urgency
Ordinance Nos. 439U, and repealed by Ordinance No. 469U, and its non-urgency
version, Ordinance No. 526. The City Council adopted amendments to Chapter 15.20 at
that time.
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WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the circumstances today are different to the
circumstances that prompted the 2005 moratorium: the movement is unprecedented in
terms of speed and size, encompassing the entire Landslide Complex.
WHEREAS, on October 3, 2023, by a four-fifths vote the City Council adopted
Interim Urgency Ordinance No. 674U, which put into immediate effect a moratorium on
construction in the Landslide Complex, including the acceptance or processing of
applications for and issuance of permits, with some limited exceptions (the Moratorium).
WHEREAS, on October 3, 2023, by a four-fifths vote the City Council also adopted
Resolution No. 2023-047, declaring a state of local emergency in the Landslide Complex,
pursuant to its authority under Chapter 2.24 of the Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal Code,
and Section 8558 of the Government Code. The state of emergency is currently active,
and has been extended by the City Council pursuant to Resolution Nos. 2023 -56,
2023=61, 2024-05, 2024-13, 2024-20, 2024-44, and 2024-51. It is anticipated that the
state of emergency will continue to be extended until the land movement is sufficiently
stabilized. What constitutes sufficiently stabilized for the emergency to be lifted is a
determination that will be made in consultation with the City Geologist, Mike Phipps of
Cotton Shires and Associates, Inc. (CSA), in consideration of a number of factors.
WHEREAS, on November 6, 2023, HCD approved the Moratorium for the entirety
of the 24 months allowed by Government Code 65858, were the City to extend it for that
period of time. In a letter to Brandy Forbes, Director of the City’s Community Development
Department, HCD acknowledged “the severity of the Portuguese Bend Landslide
Complex’s condition and the potential harm to public health and safety, and the
environment, and anticipates that [the moratorium] will need to be extended beyond the
45-day period, pursuant to Government Code section 65858. HCD hereby approves the
adoption and enforcement of Interim Urgency Ordinance No. 674U during the effective
period of 45 days from its adoption and its planned extension for up to 22 months and 15
days by the City of Rancho Palos Verdes.” HCD’s November 6, 2023 letter is attached as
Exhibit B.
WHEREAS, on November 14, 2023, by a four-fifths vote the City Council adopted
Interim Urgency Ordinance No. 675U, extending the moratorium for an additional 10
months and 15 days, which Ordinance is set to expire on October 2, 2024.
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the increase in land movement activity in
the Landslide Complex is of great concern to the Districts, the City, and to the Palos
Verdes Peninsula as a whole, and presents an imminent threat to the public health and
safety.
WHEREAS, since the adoption of Interim Urgency Ordinance No. 675U, the City
Geologist has conducted additional field mapping throughout the Landslide Complex;
observed conditions at various site-specific locations impacting residential
neighborhoods, public infrastructure, and where trails have been impacted; reviewed
additional survey and rainfall data; participated in weekly meetings of the RPV Landslide
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Complex Working Group; and conducted site-visits to the boreholes being installed in
advance of the emergency hydraugers.
WHEREAS, Recent GPS survey data published by McGee Surveying Consulting
for the period July 1, 2024 to August 1, 2024 were reviewed and analyzed. For all points
monitored across the entire Landslide Complex, following are the key conclusions over
the past month:
• Overall average movement velocity decelerated 1%, with a range of 13%
acceleration to -13% deceleration.
• The ACL (within historical boundaries) decelerated 6% and had indicated
land movement of between 2 to 4.5 feet over the past month.
• The greater ACL (within the Greater Landslide Complex boundaries)
decelerated 6.5% and had actual land movement of between 3.5 to 4.6 feet
over the past month.
• The PBL was not accelerating or decelerating and had indicated land
movement of between 3 to 4.5 feet over the past month.
• The western sub-slide portion of the PBL (including the ski jump) seems
most active and is still accelerating, up about 5% compared to the previous
month.
• The KCL accelerated 4% and had indicated land movement of between 0.5
to 3.3 feet over the past month.
• New points established on the beach at Portuguese Bend Beach Club in
April have risen about 3.5 to 4.5 feet vertically since they were established.
• The Burma Road switchback points moved about 1.5-2.3 inches in the
southwest direction over the past month.
• Perimeter points are stable, indicating that the areas outside the landslide
mapped boundaries are currently unchanged.
• Recently, new points were established on Schooner Drive in the Seaview
neighborhood to assess and affirm the limits of the Landslide Complex. The
current GPS position of these points will be compared to the position at
regular intervals moving forward to determine if there has been any
movement.
The GPS survey data published by McGee Surveying Consulting for the period through
August 1, 2024 (McGee Survey Report) is attached as Exhibit C.
WHEREAS, at the July 2, 2024 City Council meeting, the City Geologist reported
that rainfall and the resulting runoff and infiltration into the Landslide Complex continues
to adversely affect the landslide area, following a significantly wetter than averag e (193%)
rainy season in 2022-23. The current rainfall total is 23.19 inches, approximately 170%
of the season average over the past 67 years of the Rolling Hills Fire Station rain gauge.
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Since the July 2, 2024 update to the City Council, the City Geologist conducted additional
field mapping throughout the Landslide Complex; observed conditions at various site -
specific locations impacting residential neighborhoods, public infrastructure, an d where
trails have been impacted; reviewed additional survey and rainfall data; participated in the
weekly Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex Working Group meetings; and conducted
site-visits to the boreholes being installed in advance of the emergency hyd raugers.
CSA’s land movement reports dated April 26, 2024 and June 25, 2024, are attached as
Exhibits D and E, respectively.
WHEREAS, the June 25, 2024 City Geologist report (Exhibit E), concludes that
recent land movement rates (velocities) are approximately 7 to 11 inches per week in the
ACL, 9 to 12 inches per week in the PBL, and 2 to 7 inches per week in the KCL (with
highest velocities in the western KCL occurring between Klondike Canyon and the
eastern PBL boundary). The City Geologist’s report presents graphically the GPS
monitoring data provided by the McGee 2024 GPS Report. Figure 1 depicts scaled,
incremental displacements and movement vectors since October 2022. Figure 2 presents
depicts displacement rates (i.e., movement velocities) and vectors since October 2022.
Figure 3 depicts a contour map (aka “heat map”) of displacement rates for the current
April 17 through May 28, 2024 monitoring period.
WHEREAS, recent land movement rates (velocities) remain approximately 7 to
11 inches per week in the ACL, 9 to 13 inches per week in the PBL, and 2 to 8 inches
per week in the KCL. (See attachments A and B to the August 20, 2024 landslide
update staff report, found here:
https://rpv.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=5&clip_id=4624&meta_id=121588 .)
The significant and unprecedented change in movement behavior from historical
movements of the PBL and ACL remains.
WHEREAS, landslide movement continues to manifest at the ground surface in
the form of scarps, fissures, grabens/sinkholes, tensional cracking, shear zones and
thrust features. Due to the continued acceleration of the landslide, the ground movement
features have continued to enlarge, expand, widen, or grow depending on the type of
feature and location. Based upon recent field mapping, the total area of the active
Landslide Complex has expanded by approximately five acres including the following
areas:
-- The eastern landslide boundary of the KCL is now manifesting approximately 50
feet farther east on Admirable Drive and 150 feet farther east on Exultant Drive;
however, these boundaries appear to be consistent with historical mapping of the KCL
and the location of a pre-development drainage course that is believed to define the
easterly limit of prehistoric landsliding.
-- The westerly boundary of the active Landslide Complex in the Abalone Cove
Landslide area has expanded approximately 180 feet farther west at Narcissa Drive
and on the York property at 6001 Palos Verdes Drive South (PVDS). This new
expanded landslide movement is quickly deforming the Narcissa Drive curve and is
the same movement that has displaced the administration building and caused major
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bulging of the parking lot at the Wayfarer’s Chapel property. The Wayfarer’s Chapel
property is closed to the public, and the chapel itself has been dismantled and
relocated.
-- The Portuguese Beach Club area continues to experience major deformation along
Seawall Road and bulging/uplift on the order of 4 to 5 feet across the beach on an
east-west trend. This deformation appears to continue offshore into the PBL based on
major emergence of land in the surf zone and nearshore zone at the southeasterly toe
of the PBL. In this area, the seafloor has uplifted above mean sea level approximately
200 to 300 feet south of the former foreshore slope of the beach.
-- Road conditions on PVDS across the lower Landslide Complex continue to be
adversely impacted due to differential rates of land movement currently ranging from
about 2 to 7 inches/week across the KCL, 8-12 inches per week across the PBL, and
5-10 inches per week across the ACL. Portuguese Point is being overridden by the
landslide, resulting in failure of the historical rock wall along the Olmsted Trail and loss
of beach access to Abalone Cove via Olmsted Trail.
WHEREAS, the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve trail conditions within the Landslide
Complex continue to worsen. Large parts of the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve (Preserve)
are located within the Landslide Complex. Specifically, the Portuguese Bend Reserve,
Abalone Cove Reserve, and parts of the Forrestal and Filiorum Reserves are located
within the Landslide Complex. Many of these areas are seeing landslide-related damage
including fissures, rockslides, sink holes, unstable trails, and significant erosion. Out o f
concern for public safety, and in consultation with the City Geologist, the City Manager
has temporarily closed large areas of the Preserve consisting of approximately 11 miles.
Most of these closures are focused in Portuguese Bend Reserve and Abalone Cove
Reserve, but some are also in Filiorum and Forrestal Reserves. Staff continue to monitor
these and other trails, and extensive repairs will likely be needed before these trails can
be reopened for public use after the area has been stabilized.
WHEREAS, land movement has continued in the Preserve; most notably in areas
along Burma Road Trail, Toyon Trail, and Ishibashi Trail in Portuguese Bend Reserve,
and Olmsted Trail in Abalone Cove Reserve. Portions of Burma Road are no longer
accessible by vehicle, are difficult to traverse on foot, and have seen significant elevation
changes in areas where fissures divide and break the road. Areas of Burma, near lower
Rim Trail, are nearly impassable without step stools/ladders, or similar tools to assist with
the elevation differences within the road/trail tread. These areas have continued to
separate, creating drops of 15 feet or more along the trail. Many locations are almost
unrecognizable, with little to no trail remaining. Olmsted Trail has ongoing land slippage
and reoccurring slides, causing damage to old retaining walls and burying infrastructure
installed in early 2024. Newer fissures on Vanderlip Trail and Gary’s Gulch Trail have
continued to expand and develop. Many areas remain additionally damage d from the
heavy February/March 2024 storms including elevation changes, increased erosion, and
additional and expanded fissures. (Recent photos of trail damage attached as Exhibit F.)
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WHEREAS, due to the continued significant land movement and how it is
manifesting at the ground surface in the form of scarps, fissures, grabens/sinkholes,
tensional cracking, shear zones and thrust features, some residential structures and the
utilities serving properties in the Landslide Complex have suffered damage and loss of
function. (Recent photos of roads and homes damage attached as Exhibit G.)
WHEREAS, roadways, water mains, sewer pipes, gas lines, and electrical power
poles have all been impacted by the land movement throughout the Landslide Complex.
The Southern California Gas Company shut off gas services to approximately 135
households on July 29, 2024 due to safety concerns. On July 30, 2024, Southern
California Edison issued a statement that “On Oct. 3, 2023, the city of Rancho Palos
Verdes declared a local emergency due to accelerated land movement and subsidence.
Over the past 18 months, there has been considerable land movement, putting the utilities
serving the area and multiple properties at risk. Southern California Edison’s service
to select properties may be discontinued if conditions warrant....” (SCE’s full statement
can be found here: https://energized.edison.com/rpv.) SCE has previously cut off service
to 3 properties on Vanderlip Drive because of the land movement.
WHEREAS, on August 6, 2024, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2024-52,
declaring a state of local emergency in the Portuguese Bend Community on the grounds
of a sudden shortage of energy, based on Southern California Gas shutting off gas service
to approximately 135 homes in the PBL.
WHEREAS, on August 20, 2024, the City Council received an update from Ramzi
Awwad, Director of Public Works, and the City Geologist, that the land movement is
primarily due to a deeper slip plane that is approximately 330 feet below the surface (the
Altamira slip plane), and may encompass more than the PBL, requiring a rethinking of the
mitigation approach on a holistic level.
WHEREAS, Section 66300(b)(1) of the Government Code provides that “with
respect to land where housing is an allowable use, … an affected city shall not enact a
development policy, standard, or condition that would have [the effect of…i]mposing a
moratorium or similar restriction or limitation on housing development, including mixed -
use development, within all or a portion of the jurisdiction of the affected … city, other
than to specifically protect against an imminent threat to the health and safety of persons
residing in, or within the immediate vicinity of, the area subject to the moratorium….”
WHEREAS, the City Council continues to find that pending mitigation and
stabilization of the land movement, as further articulated under Section 5, below:
(1) The approval of the development of housing development projects, as defined
in Section 65905.5 of the Government Code would have a specific, adverse impact upon
the public health or safety. As used in this paragraph, a “specific, adverse impact” means
a significant, quantifiable, direct, and unavoidable impact, based on objective, identified
written public health or safety standards, policies, or conditions as they existed on the
date that the ordinance is adopted by the legislative body.
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01203.0023/1001734.3
(2) The interim ordinance is necessary to mitigate or avoid the specific, adverse
impact identified pursuant to paragraph (1).
(3) There is no feasible alternative to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific,
adverse impact identified pursuant to paragraph (1) as well or better, with a less
burdensome or restrictive effect, than the adoption of the proposed interim ordinance.
WHEREAS, pursuant to the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act,
Public Resources Code Sections 2100 et. seq. (“CEQA”), the State’s CEQA Guidelines,
California Code of Regulations, Title 14, §15000 et. seq., the City’s Local CEQA
Guidelines, and Government Code §65962.5(f) (Hazardous Waste and Substances
Statement), it has been determined that the adoption of the Urgency Ordinance to impose
a moratorium on the acceptance or processing of applications, issuance of permits, and
construction in the Districts is exempt from CEQA, pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3). This
Interim Urgency Ordinance is exempt because it proposes to impose a moratorium all
construction on properties within the Districts and it can be seen with certainty that there
is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the
environment.
WHEREAS, this Interim Urgency Ordinance is proposed to allow the City to
continue to address and mitigate an imminent threat to public health and safety and
therefore is exempt from CEQA pursuant to Public Resources Code, Section 21080(b)(4)
and CEQA Guidelines, Section 15269.
WHEREAS, this Interim Urgency Ordinance is proposed to allow the City to
continue to protect the environment by preventing the exacerbation to existing unstable
geologic conditions caused by activities related to new construction and therefore is
categorically exempt from CEQA pursuant to CEQA Guidelines, Section 15308 and none
of the exceptions to this exemption set forth in CEQA Guidelines, Section 15300.2 apply
to this Interim Urgency Ordinance.
WHEREAS, on August 20, 2024, the City Council issued a report outlining the
measures the City is taking to address the conditions that gave rise to this moratorium,
as required by Section 65858(d) of the Government Code, in the form of a staff report
that provided Council with a comprehensive update on the actions taken so far to alleviate
the conditions requiring adoption of an interim urgency ordinance. The staff report can be
found here:
https://rpv.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=5&clip_id=4618&meta_id=121381.
WHEREAS, all legal prerequisites to the adoption of the Interim Urgency
Ordinance have occurred.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS
VERDES, CALIFORNIA, DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Moratorium
A-7
01203.0023/1001734.3
Subject to the exceptions articulated in Section 2 below, during the effective period
of this Ordinance, no application for permit will be accepted, no consideration of any
application for any permit will be made, and no permit will be issued by the City for any
construction on any property within the Landslide Complex until this Ordinance has
expired or has been repealed according to applicable law. This Moratorium also applies
to any pending applications, and any permits or entitlements that have issued and
construction not commenced.
“Permit” means any City planning land use approvals, and any building, grading,
plumbing, electrical, or mechanical permit, whether the approval or issuance is
discretionary or ministerial.
SECTION 2. Exceptions
The Moratorium shall not apply to the following:
A. Construction necessary for repair or maintenance of existing structures, roadways,
and any infrastructure such as water lines, sewer lines, electrical or traffic installations,
etc.
B. Construction necessary for the implementation, establishment, repair, or
maintenance of any landslide mitigation measures.
C. Construction necessary for the immediate preservation of the public health and
safety.
D. Construction that the City Manager deems necessary and consistent with the
purposes of this interim urgency ordinance. Any such exception shall require written
findings by the City Manager, and must be ratified by the City Council at the regular
meeting following the City Manager’s determination.
SECTION 3. Urgency Findings; Specific Adverse Impact Findings
A. The City Council finds that there is a current and immediate threat to public
safety, health, and welfare posed by the increased land movement within the Landslide
Complex, and further finds that the land movement outside the delineated Landslide
Complex/LMA are of grave and immediate concern. Additionally, formerly stable portions
of the Landslide Complex are now moving at a faster clip, which has accelerated since
2018, but has increased dramatically since the last rainy season. Existing homes and
structures are being threatened by the land movement, and may be facing a greater threat
still if the coming winter brings the promised strong El Niño, with the concomitant amounts
of rainfall.
B. The City Council finds that construction of new structures and buildings in
the Landslide Complex constitutes a specific adverse impact that cannot satisfactorily be
mitigated at this time by the adoption of a less restrictive regulation than this inter im
ordinance: the additional load provided by new buildings, including the required grading,
will further destabilize the Landslide Complex, thus increasing the land movement speed
A-8
01203.0023/1001734.3
and damage to existing structures. Additional construction will also require water and
sewer infrastructure, which may leak into the soil and further exacerbate the land
movement; in light of the increase in water main breaks, this is a very real and immed iate
concern. It is imperative at this time that no additional load and water/sewer utilities be
placed on the Landslide Complex, while the City works to further study and stabilize the
area, and the boundaries of the Landslide Complex may have to be revis ed and likely
expanded. At this time a less restrictive regulation is not feasible as all of the City’s
resources must be focused on implementing the City’s Landslide Remediation Project
(see below), and it cannot be known which additional project or water main break may
cause a catastrophic failure of any part of the Landslide Complex.
C. Additionally, the City Council finds that allowing construction in an actively
moving landslide will not further the statewide policy of increasing housing stock or
meeting the City’s RHNA, and instead will endanger the existing housing and the area’s
residents.
D. The City Council therefore finds that in order to protect the health and
safety of the residents of the Landslide Complex, the City, and the Palos Verdes
Peninsula, it is necessary to adopt this Interim Urgency Ordinance.
SECTION 4. Authority and Effect
A. The State Planning and Zoning Law, Government Code Section 65000 et
seq., broadly empowers the City to plan for and regulate the use of land in order to provide
for orderly development, the public safety, health, and welfare, and a balancing of
property rights and the desires of the community and how its citizens envisions their city.
B. Government Code Section 65858 expressly authorizes the City, in order to
protect public safety, health, and welfare, to adopt an Interim Urgency Ordinance
prohibiting a use that is in conflict with a contemplated general plan, specific plan, or
zoning proposal that the legislative body, planning commission, or the planning
department is considering or studying or intends to study within a reasonable time,
provided that the urgency measure shall require a four-fifths vote of the legislative body
for adoption, and shall be of no further force and effect 45 days from its date of adoption,
unless duly extended for an additional 10 months and 15 days . The Interim Urgency
Ordinance may be extended for a further 12 months.
SECTION 5. Review and Study
The City has been in the process of implementing a Landslide Remediation Project
for the PBL. The Project’s purpose was, just as its name suggests, a large -scale,
sophisticated project that would seek to stabilize the PBL, largely by the installation and
operation of a network of hydraugers. The project as originally designed has three
components: Component I - Repair of the Existing Fractures, Component II - Surface
Drainage Improvements, and Component III - Below-Grade Hydraugers. The purpose of
the project is to install a number of hydraugers, to be constructed below grade, designed
to alleviate artesian water pressure underground and to intercept water, preventing it from
A-9
01203.0023/1001734.3
recharging underground water, in the Portuguese Bend Landslide area. Their function is
similar to vertical dewatering wells, but they are installed horizontally, beneath the active
movement zone of the landslide.
The Remediation Project is anticipated to cost $33 million. The City sought and
qualified for a grant in the amount of $23.3 million from the Federal Emergency
Management Agency, and received a $5 million commitment from LA County Board
Supervisor Janice Hahn. The City is currently seeking additional sources of funds.
Since then, the land movement has accelerated and the City Council directed that
two of the five planned hydraugers from the Remediation Project be installed on an
emergency basis (the Emergency Hydraugers Project), appropriating almost $10 million
of the City’s funds. As part of the preparation, the City dri lled a number of boreholes to
obtain additional information to determine the ideal placement of the Emergency
Hydraugers. As a result of the data collected from the boreholes, the City determined that
the Emergency Hydraugers Project is not likely to be successful at this time: the Project
was designed to remove water from a slip plane approximately 150 feet below the surface,
to relieve artesian pressure; but the boreholes revealed that the majority of the land
movement is due to a second slip plane, which has not previously m oved, that is located
about 330 feet below the surface. The hydraugers cannot reach this slip plane. The City
is currently investigating other methods to remediate the landslide, the primary of which
being addressing the Landslide Complex holistically, working in concert with ACLAD,
KCHAD, and hopefully the City of Rolling Hills. The first step will be to drill a number of
dewatering wells directly to the lower slip plane to relieve the artesian pressure as quickly
as possible. The dewatering wells will likely sheer off within weeks and have to be redrilled
until the land movement slows.
The City will continue to seek solutions to remediate the land movement.
SECTION 6. Consistency with the General Plan
The City Council finds that this Ordinance is consistent with the following goals
and policies of the City’s General Plan.
Circulation Element Policies – GP Page C-7
30. Discourage the installation or extension of any infrastructure component
into any area known to be hazardous unless appropriate liability safeguards (such as
geological hazard abatement districts) are in place and adequate mitigation measures
are incorporated into the design.
31. Allow new development only where adequate infrastructure systems can
reasonably be provided.
Conservation and Open Space Element Policies – GP Page COS-4
3. Require any development within the Resource Management Districts of
high slopes (RM 3) and dormant landslide area (RM 5) to perform at least one, and
A-10
01203.0023/1001734.3
preferably two, independent engineering studies concerning the geotechnical, soils, and
other stability factors (including seismic considerations) affecting this site following
established geological industry standards.
6. Prohibit activities that create excessive silt, pollutant runoff, increase
canyon-wall erosion, or potential for landslide within Resource Management Districts
containing hydrologic factors (RM 6).
10. Stringently regulate irrigation, natural drainage, and other water -related
considerations in new developments and existing uses affecting existing or potential slide
areas.
11. Consider development exceptions in areas otherwise precluding
development for health and safety reasons, only if the development can establish that it
can overcome the conditions otherwise precluding development, and is otherwise
compatible with the intent of the General Plan and the Specific Plan for the area.
Safety Element Goals – Page S-6
1. Provide for the protection of life and property from both natural and human-
made hazards within the community.
4. Protect life and property and reduce adverse economic, environmental, and
social impacts resulting from any geologic activity.
Social Services Element Policy – Page SS-3
9. Prioritize enforcement activities of residential structures with known health
hazards.
SECTION 7. Severability
The City Council hereby declares, if any provision, section, subsection, paragraph,
sentence, phrase or word of this ordinance is rendered or declared invalid or
unconstitutional by any final action in a court of competent jurisdiction or by reason of any
preemptive legislation, then the City Council would have independently adopted the
remaining provisions, sections, subsections, paragraphs, sentences, phrases or words of
this ordinance and as such they shall remain in full force and effect.
SECTION 8. Publication
The City Clerk shall certify as to the passage and adoption of this Interim Urgency
Ordinance and shall cause the same to be published in a manner prescribed by law.
SECTION 9. Effectiveness of Ordinance
This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon adoption by a four-fifths vote of
the City Council, pursuant to the authority conferred upon the City Council by Government
A-11
01203.0023/1001734.3
Code § 36937. This Ordinance shall be of no further force and effect 12 months following
the date of its adoption. Not later than 10 days prior to the expiration of this urgency
ordinance, the City Council shall issue a written report as required by applicable state
law.
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED this 3rd day of September, 2024, by a
_____ vote of the entire City Council.
________________________________
John Cruikshank, Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Teresa Takaoka, City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES )
I, Teresa Takaoka, City Clerk of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, do hereby certify
that the whole numbers of the City Council of said City is five; that the foregoing Ordinance
No. ___U was duly and regularly adopted by the City Council of said City at a regular
meeting thereof held on September 3, 2024 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAINED:
__________________________
City Clerk
A-12
EXHIBIT A
PORTUGUESE BEND LANDSLIDE COMPLEX
A-13
EXHIBIT B
HCD APPROVAL LETTER
November 6, 2023
A-14
STATE OF CALIFORNIA - BUSINESS, CONSUMER SERVICES AND HOUSING AGENCY GAVIN NEWSOM, Governor
DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
DIVISION OF HOUSING POLICY DEVELOPMENT
2020 W. El Camino Avenue, Suite 500
Sacramento, CA 95833
(916) 263-2911 / FAX (916) 263-7453
www.hcd.ca.gov
November 6, 2023
Brandy Forbes, Director
Community Development Department
City of Rancho Palos Verdes
30940 Hawthorne Blvd.
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Dear Brandy Forbes:
RE: Approval of Urgency Ordinance – Moratorium on Construction within the
Greater Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex
The purpose of this letter is to provide a determination to the City of Rancho Palos
Verdes (City) regarding the request to approve the adoption of Interim Urgency
Ordinance No. 674U (Ordinance), prohibiting any construction within the geographic
boundaries of the Greater Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex (Landslide Complex).
The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) is
statutorily required to provide determination regarding proposed moratoria (Gov. Code,
§ 66300, subd. (b)(1)(B)(ii)). HCD received a request for approval for the proposed
Ordinance, met with the City staff, and reviewed relevant materials (e.g., staff letter,
resolution declaring a local emergency, Interim Ordinance No. 674U, land movement
monitoring surveys, etc.). Upon review of the written materials and discussion with the
local jurisdiction, HCD has determined that the current conditions of the Landslide
Complex pose an imminent threat to the health and safety of persons residing in the
area subject to the Ordinance.
Background
Since the 1950s to 1970s, three large landslides have been active in the City, including
Portuguese Bend Landslide (PBL), Abalone Cove Landslide (ACL), and the Klondike
Canyon Landslide (KCL). The Greater Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex or
Landslide Complex encompasses these three active landslides. Beginning in May of
2023, land movement has increased in the PBL and KCL complexes. Based on a
surveying report of PBL in October 2022 and revised assessment in June 2023,
“movement velocities have accelerated over the average velocity for the previous four
years, which saw an acceleration over the previous 15-20 years”.1 The accelerating
1 McGee Surveying Consulting, Conditions Assessment Report, dated October 19, 2022
and revised June 6, 2023, Page 2.
A-15
Brandy Forbes, Director
Page 2
land movement has destroyed homes, impacted the Portuguese Bend Reserve,
increased water main breaks, and caused roadway and utility line distress.
The City established Landslide Moratorium Area in 1978, imposing development
restrictions in response to the Landslide Complex. Since then, the City has adopted a
series of Interim Urgency Ordinances (Nos. 108U, 139U, 427U, 459U, 526, etc.) to
temporarily halt permit processing and construction, and make amendments to enforce
appropriate landslide mitigations measures in designated areas (Rancho Palos Verdes
Municipal Code sections 15.20.040 and 15.20.050).
The proposed Ordinance No. 674U is to encompass the entire Portuguese Bend
Landslide Complex (including ACL and KCL). The Ordinance would address an
imminent threat to public health and safety and prevent the exacerbation of existing
unstable geologic conditions caused by activities related to new construction within the
Landslide Complex. During the effective period of this Ordinance, the City will not
accept or consider any permit applications, nor issue any permits for construction on
any property within the Landslide Complex. This Ordinance also applies to any pending
applications and to any permits or entitlements that have issued but upon which
construction has not commenced.
The City has confirmed that no sites included in its housing element site inventory are
within the Landslide Complex. As a result, no such sites are subject to the proposed
Ordinance. Pursuant to Government Code section 65858, the City seeks to adopt and
enforce the proposed Ordinance that will begin with a 45-day period, following its date
of adoption, and if necessary extended for up to 22 months and 15 days.
The City is in the process of implementing a large-scale remediation project to stabilize
the Landslide Complex. The project will proceed in three phases: (1) repairing existing
fractures, (2) improving surface drainage of stormwater, and (3) installing a network of
hydraugers. Staff anticipates that 90 percent of the planning and Environmental Impact
Report certification will be complete by September 2024, and final engineering and
permitting will be complete by September 2025.
Local Moratorium Regulations Under the Housing Crisis Act (HCA)
Pursuant to Government Code section 66300, subdivision (b)(1)(B)(ii), a city cannot
enforce a moratorium that would limit housing development until it has submitted the
ordinance to and received approval from HCD. Conditions for imposing a moratorium,
or similar restrictions on housing development, must demonstrate “an imminent threat
to the health and safety of persons residing in, or within the immediate vicinity of, the
area subject to the moratorium” (Gov. Code, § 66300, subd. (b)(1)(B)(i)).
A-16
Brandy Forbes, Director
Page 3
HCD acknowledges the severity of the Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex’s condition
and the potential harm to public health and safety, and the environment, and anticipates
that the Ordinance will need to be extended beyond the 45-day period, pursuant to
Government Code section 65858. HCD hereby approves the adoption and enforcement
of Interim Urgency Ordinance No. 674U during the effective period of 45 days from its
adoption and its planned extension for up to 22 months and 15 days by the City of
Rancho Palos Verdes.
Conclusion
In summary, HCD approves the adoption and enforcement of the Ordinance and hopes
for a speedy resolution of this matter.
If you have any questions regarding the content of this letter or would like additional
technical assistance, please contact Mehrsa Imani, of our staff, at
mehrsa.imani@hcd.ca.gov.
Sincerely,
Shannan West
Housing Accountability Unit Chief
A-17
EXHIBIT C
McGee Survey Report
A-18
Portuguese Bend Land Movement Monitoring Survey
October 10, 2023 (M38) through August 1, 2024 (M44)
Survey Report
for the
City of Rancho Palos Verdes
prepared by
McGee Surveying Consulting
Dated: October 30, 2023 with subsequent updates through August 1, 2024
Portuguese Bend is typically monitored for land movement on a tri-annual basis with an initial survey of all
current monitoring points at the beginning of the rainy season in the fall of each year followed by two
subsequent Partial Winter and Partial Spring Monitoring Surveys of 30-40 points. In past years, the survey
report was published following the spring survey; however, at the City’s request, due to the excessive land
movement, the surveys have been conducted every six weeks and now every month as listed below. The surveys
are reported as Addendums with appropriate edits herein and the movement results included in the attached
“PB MOVEMENT DATA POSTING…..xlsx” made available usually within five days of completion of the field
survey. Movements are reported for the average date of the survey noted below and listed hereafter.
M38 Full Survey - October 10, 2023
M39 Full Survey - January 13, 2024
M40 Partial Survey - March 8, 2024
M41 Partial Survey - April 17, 2024
M42 Full Survey - May 28, 2024
M44 Full Survey - August 1, 2024
SPREADSHEET ATTACHMENT: “PB MOVEMENT DATA POSTING M44 - 2007 to August 1, 2024.xlsx”
OVERVIEW: GNSS MONITORING NETWORK (M38)
McGee Surveying Consulting
(MSC) performed the 2023-2024
land movement monitoring surveys
at Portuguese Bend. The surveys
were planned, coordinated, and
executed by Michael McGee,
PLS3945 of MSC who is
responsible for the field surveys,
processing observations, network
adjustments, analysis, and reports.
For a general history, details and
procedures utilized in this survey but
not re-stated here, see the
“Portuguese Bend Land Movement
2020-2021 Monitoring Survey”
report dated October 5, 2021,
revised and published May 11, 2022.
See also prior reports.
This Initial October 10, 2023 Survey determined the precise positions of 79 monitoring and control points.
PVE3 and other CSRC CGPS (CGNSS) stations were used to support and reference the survey network and
verify the recovery of the reference frame. This survey included two new points set in July 2023 for the M37
Survey in Klondike Canyon (Seaview) and ten new points set in September 2023. Additional points have been
set on most subsequent surveys as necessary and noted in the addendums. Point KC02 was replaced by KC24 in
the October in anticipation of its future destruction. Point AB21 was recovered from the 2007 survey and
substituted for nearby AB20 (destroyed by others) and will facilitated continuous monitoring at this location.
B-1A-19
RPV Portuguese Bend : Monitoring Survey
McGEE SURVEYING CONSULTING
5290 Overpass Road, Ste#107, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Page 2 of 17
The movements of new points are included in this Report as an Addendums. All monitoring survey coordinates
and movements to date are listed in the spreadsheet “PB MOVEMENT DATA POSTING 2007-[present].xlsx”
noted above as attached to this Report.
PROJECT DATUMS - REFERENCE FRAME
The horizontal and vertical positions of the monitoring points are based on the North American Datum of 1983
(NAD83) Epoch 2007.00 and the North American Vertical Datum of 1988 (NAVD 88) reference frames.
Although more current epoch adjustments are available (e.g. NAD83 (2011) Epoch 2010.00), Epoch 2007.00 is
retained to maintain consistently relative positions over time. Orthometric heights (NAVD88 Elevations) are
based on measured ellipsoid heights combined with the NGS Geoid03 model and referenced to NGS
Benchmarks. Although more current geoid models (e.g. Geoid18), are available, Geoid03 is retained to maintain
consistently relative height movements over time as explained in said May 2022 Report. The latitudes and
longitudes determined by GNSS measurements are converted to grid coordinates by projected onto NAD83
California State Plane Coordinates Zone 5 in US Survey Feet.
A valid recovery of the survey reference frame is essential to accurately measure and assess actual movements
of individual points relative to the greater peninsula. The method for recovering the monitoring survey reference
frame was modified in 2019 to improve the efficiency and simplify the processing and analysis of the
monitoring surveys. Since 2007, Point AB02 (at the south end of Portuguese Point) has proven to be stable
relative to PVE3 which is a California Spatial Reference Center (CSRC) Continuously Operated GPS Station
(CGPS) at City Hall. The present procedure fixes PVE3RP (a PK Nail set on the concrete base of PVE3 as a
reference mark to PVE3) and checking to point AB02. The proven positions relative to PVE3 are listed below.
Pt# Latitude Longitude NAVD88 Ht Source)
AB02 33-44-13.84878 118-22-26.19243 116.47 ft 2007 - October 2018 position
PVE3RP 33-44-35.74239 118-24-15.27451 346.88 ft Average of 5 years referencing to PVE3
Comparing the positions of AB02 on Portuguese Point with PVE3RP at City Hall and other CSRC CGPS
Stations provides a redundant verification that the reference frame is stable and successfully recovered for each
monitoring survey. An additional stable check point “RP01” was established near the entrance to the Trump
Golf Course for incorporation in future surveys.
The rate of movement (velocities) of the land masses have increased over the past five years compared to the
previous 12-year average. See “Assessment of Movements & Accelerations” addressed on Page 11.
Notwithstanding the 2019 monitoring process noted above, the processing of observations was necessarily
modified for this fall survey because of the higher velocities as follows.
The October 2023 observations were processed as follows. The Base Station at AB73 was occupied over a six-
day period and was found to have moved about 0.016 feet per day similar to other monitoring points in the area.
To determine accurate positions and therefore precision movements it was necessary to determine a daily
position of AB73. This was accomplished by processing the static data collected each day at AB73 with static
data downloaded from the CSRC for CGPS stations PVE3 and PVHS. PVE3 is and has always been the basic
constraint for the monitoring survey’s reference frame. PVHS was used to verify the stability of PVE3.
Subsequently positions of AB73 were computed for each day referenced to PVE3. The identity for processing
the daily observations of AB73 and related RTK measurements was to assign to AB73 the identity of AB731,
AB732, AB733, AB734 & AB735 for days 1 through 5 occurring on October 8, 9, 10, 11 & 13.
BASE STATIONS – POINT NAMES
AB61 and AB20 have previously served as suitable GNSS Base Stations for referencing measured positions of
the monitoring points. AB61 is no longer accessed due to its environmental sensitivity and lack of security.
AB73, located on the US Pony Club property was utilized as the Base Station up to the October 2023 survey.
Access was obtained unilaterally by MSC from the Pony Club manager for exclusive permission to enter the
property confirmed prior to each survey entry with the understanding that 5 mph driving protocols are observed.
Point AB73 was not a planned monitoring point but given the increased rates of movement, it fills in a gap
between AB20 and AB50 and moves consistent with AB20. AB50 and AB73 are on the south and north sides of
B-2A-20
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Portuguese Bend: Monitoring Survey
McGEE SURVEYING CONSULTING
5290 Overpass Road, Ste#107, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Page 4 of 17
GNSS October 2023 M38 Survey Parameters, Metadata & Equipment
Date of Annual Initial Survey: M38 – October 10, 2023 (mean date) between 0800-1700 PDST (+7 hrs for UTC).
Constellations: GPS (31 Satellites), Russian GLONASS (23 Satellites), Galileo (23 Satellites) and Beidue (40 Satellites).
Observables (Carrier Waves): GPS (L1, L2, L5), GLONASS (L1, L2), Beidue (L1, L2); & Galileo (4 Carrier Waves)
Data Epoch Rate - 0.2 seconds (20HZ) at the GS18 Rover; 1 second at the GS18 Base
Satellites: 20-40; GDOP: < 2; Elevation Mask: 0° at the Rover and Base Station
Ephemeris: Broadcast for RTK vectors.
Weather: Mostly calm clear skies, temperature 65-75° F, no significant weather.
Space Weather: Boulder K Index 1-3 averaging 2 (gauges ionospheric activity on a scale of 0-9; less than 6 preferred)
Equipment: GNSS Base Receiver Unit No. M11, Operator: M. McGee, PLS; Occupied Base Station
Receiver Make & Model: Leica GS18 with integrated Antenna; Mount: Tripod & Tribrach
GNSS Rover Receiver Unit No. M10, Operator: M. McGee, PLS
Receiver Make & Model: Leica GS18T with integrated Antenna; Mount: Fixed Height Pole #4
Processing & Adjustments: Leica Infinity v4.0 and "Starnet-PRO” version 11.0.6 Software
Prior to 2019, geodetic grade GNSS receivers collected static satellite signal data for post processing. The
instrumentation was upgraded in 2020 to a Leica GS18 Base with a GS18T RTK Rover operating in real-time
with an FM radio system which utilizes the latest technology to deliver increased productivity and precision of
point positions. The GS18 receiver incorporates an Inertial Measurement Unit and tracks four Global Navigation
Satellite Systems (GNSS): GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and Beidue Satellites. The differences in two measured
vectors are acceptable if they fall within 0.03 feet (1 cm) horizontally; otherwise, additional measurements are
usually obtained with some exceptions. Experience has shown the independent measurements generally agree on
average about 0.02 feet when referenced to a local base receiver.
ADJUSTMENTS & ANALYSIS
Network Adjustment: A minimally constrained adjustment is utilized to develop NAD83 (2007) 2007.00
Epoch Zone 5 State Plane Coordinates and NAVD88 Heights of the monitoring points. The NAVD88
orthometric heights (elevations) are determined by combining the measured ellipsoid heights with the Geoid 03
Model. Previously, Point AB02 was fixed, and the stability verified relative to PVE3RP which is 1.5 to 3 miles
westerly and outside the influence of the land movements. AB02 is expected to be stable and unaffected by the
land movement; however, due to the substantially increased rates of movement resulting in dynamically
differential movements the process was modified as noted above to assure accurate positions. This was
accomplished by computing daily positions on the Base Station AB73 (AB731, AB732, AB733, AB734,
AB735) relative to the reference frame fixed at station PVE3 noted above. Listed here are the differences.
Differences in Feet
ID dN dE dZ_
PVE3 0.000 0.000 Fixed Horizontal, CGPS Station at City Hall
AB02 -0.022 -0.008 0.000 Fixed Elevation & Horizontal Check
PVE3RP -0.010 -0.003 -0.055 Closure Check from PVE3 to AB73 to PVE3RP at City Hall
PVHS -0.035 0.003 Horizontal Check on CGPS Station 2 Miles North of PB
Comments: Fixing the CGPS station PVE3 (fixed constraint since 2007) finds the differences at PVHS,
PVE3RP and AB02 are insignificant measurement noise. Given that AB02, PVE3RP, PVE3 and PVHS are in
good relative agreement, the survey reference frame is deemed stable and successfully recovered from which
local land movements were determined.
ACCURACY STATEMENTS
Vector Residuals: In this Initial Survey, the two-dimensional vector residuals averaged 0.012 feet and the
absolute value of the vertical residuals averaged 0.02 feet as listed below. The vector residuals are based on a
network adjustment of independent point positions.
Vector Lengths(ft) Two Dimensional Residuals Absolute Vertical Residuals
Vary Average Average Std.Dev. Maximum Average Std.Dev. _ Range
131-16391 3792 0.012 0.006 0.029 0.02 0.02 -0.03 to +0.08
B-4A-22
McGEE SURVEYING CONSULTING
5290 Overpass Road, Ste#107, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Page 5 of 17
Movement Accuracy: A point is deemed to have moved if, at the 95% level of confidence the horizontal
movement (signal) of a point between two epochs is greater than the 95% Error (noise). Based on multiple
independent occupations, the horizontal (2D) movements reported between October 2022 (M34) and October
2023 (M38) statistically attained a relative average accuracy of 0.014 feet at the 95% Level of Confidence with
a Standard Deviation of 0.004 feet and a Range of 0.01 to 0.03 feet. See the attached file “PB MOVEMENT
DATA POSTING …..xlsx” for movements and coordinates.
Table of 2D & Vertical Movements for 12.0 Months October 10, 2022 (M34) & October 10, 2023 (M38)
Listed below are the movement Azimuths (directions clockwise from North) in degrees, the two-dimensional
horizontal movements, and the vertical (elevation) changes during the period in US Survey Feet. See the
attached spreadsheet “PB MOVEMENT DATA POSTING…..xlsx”. Note: The horizontal measured movement
confidence is estimated at +/-0.02’ (1/4”); therefore, movements of less than 0.03’ are statistically indeterminate.
The estimated vertical measured movement confidence is +/-0.05’.
* = Control Point for Recovery of the Reference Frame.
Point
ID
Azimuth° Horizontal
Movement
Vertical
Movement
Point
ID
Azimuth° Horizontal
Movement
Vertical
Movement
AB01 244 0.06 0.0 KC02 196 1.99 0.1
AB02 201 0.02 0.0 KC05 219 0.88 -0.1
AB04 223 4.80 -0.6 KC06 253 1.34 -0.5
AB05 231 3.51 -0.6 KC07 256 0.02 0.0
AB13 198 2.48 -0.6 KC13 193 0.70 0.1
AB16 191 1.20 0.0 KC14 259 0.12 -0.1
AB17 187 0.06 0.0 KC15 233 1.36 -0.4
AB20 199 3.06 -0.1 KC16 251 0.03 0.0
AB24 198 2.68 0.0 KC17 222 1.24 -0.3
AB50 236 1.99 0.2 KC18 202 2.86 -0.3
AB51 202 2.05 -0.2 PB04 203 3.62 -0.3
AB53 192 2.75 -0.4 PB06 200 3.35 -0.3
AB57 169 2.37 -0.7 PB07 201 3.85 -0.1
AB58 183 2.22 -0.4 PB08 201 3.61 0.0
AB59 186 3.17 -0.8 PB09 198 3.49 -0.1
AB60 204 2.69 -0.3 PB12 200 4.67 -0.3
AB62 203 3.73 -0.4 PB13 201 3.83 0.1
AB63 207 3.58 -0.9 PB18 187 3.51 -0.5
AB64 155 0.35 -0.1 PB20 199 4.23 -0.4
AB65 167 1.49 -0.3 PB21 195 3.93 -0.6
AB66 196 2.29 -0.5 PB26 192 3.94 -0.4
AB67 180 1.12 -0.2 PB27 195 4.18 -0.8
AB68 193 2.03 -0.6 PB29 200 4.02 -1.0
AB70 203 2.97 -0.1 PB54 196 3.39 -0.2
AB71 158 1.76 -0.6 PB55 199 3.86 -0.8
AB73 203 3.00 -0.3 PB59 199 4.11 -0.6
CR07 171 1.87 -1.6 PB67 194 5.93 -0.8
CR50 225 0.11 -0.1 PB68 202 3.49 -0.1
CR51 223 0.08 0.0 PB69 202 3.91 -0.3
CR53 231 0.21 0.0 PB70 207 3.58 -0.8
FT06 192 3.66 -1.7 PB71 198 3.65 -0.4
FT08 257 0.06 0.0 UB02 189 4.17 0.3
FT09 271 0.08 -0.1 *PVE3RP 195 0.01 0.0
B-5A-23
McGEE SURVEYING CONSULTING
5290 Overpass Road, Ste#107, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Page 6 of 17
October 10, 2022 to October 10, 2023 Movement Distances (Feet) & Directions as Indicated
Note: Distances are exaggerated x 100 for viewing
Enlargement (PVDS) Enlargement (Seaview)
B-6A-24
McGEE SURVEYING CONSULTING
5290 Overpass Road, Ste#107, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Page 7 of 17
MONITORING POINT MONUMENT NOTES & STATUS
See the May 2022 Survey Report for prior monument notes.
2023: 16 points added to the monitoring program as listed below. AB20 destroyed after October 2023 Survey and replaced
by AB21.
MONITORING POINT MONUMENT DESCRIPTIONS
All other Point Descriptions are listed in prior Reports.
California State Plane Coordinates Zone 5 in the NAD83 (2007) Epoch 2007.00 and NAVD88 Datums are listed in the
attached spreadsheet file “PB MOVEMENT DATA POSTING….”.
Point Description
Points added in July and October 2023
AB21 2" Punched GIP in “Cable Box”, Replaced AB20 after Oct. 2023 survey
PB72 2" mag nail & washer in conc. in 2"x 24" GIP Collared in Concrete
PB73 2" mag nail & washer in conc. in 2"x 24" GIP Collared in Concrete
PB74 2" mag nail & washer in conc. in 2"x 24" GIP Collared in Concrete
PB75 2" mag nail & washer in conc. in 2"x 24" GIP Collared in Concrete
CR54 2" mag nail & washer in conc. in 2"x 24" GIP Collared in Concrete
CW05 Found ½” x 48” Punched Rebar in Concrete Collar set June 2022 for CalWater
CW06 Found ½” x 48” Punched Rebar in Concrete Collar set June 2022 for CalWater
CW07 Found ½” x 48” Punched Rebar in Concrete Collar set June 2022 for CalWater
CW08 Found 2” Mag nail in Concrete Base of 3’ Bollard set June 2022 for CalWater
KC19 2” Mag Nail Drilled in a Concrete Curb on South side of Dauntless Dr.
KC20 2” Mag Nail Drilled in a Concrete Curb on West side of Excelsior Dr.
KC21 2" mag nail & washer in conc. in 2"x 24" GIP Collared in Concrete
KC22 2" mag nail & washer in conc. in 2"x 24" GIP Collared in Concrete
KC23 2” Mag Nail Drilled in a Concrete Curb on South side of Admirable Dr.
KC24 2” Mag Nail Drilled in the Southwest Corner of a Concrete Vault, KC02 planned replacement
RP01 Check Point at Trump Golf Course established in July 2023 for verifying the
recovery of a stabile reference frame. Point is the top open part of the “B”
on the south side of the rim of a manhole on the south side of PVDS at Conqueror Dr.
Addendum No. 1 Report
Portuguese Bend Land Movement Monitoring Survey
Early Winter Full Monitoring Survey No. M39 - January 13, 2024
A special Portuguese Bend Full Monitoring Surveys (M39) was requested by the City in January 2024. The
average date of the survey is January 13, 2024, 3.1 months after the October 10, 2023 Initial Monitoring for
2023-2024 reported above. The M39 survey included 79 monitoring points representing the present full
network. A central base station (usually occupying AB73) was not feasible due to the excessive rate of land
movement and reliance was made on the remote Smartnet RTN Stations which resulted in a lesser accuracy. For
this survey, this was not an issue since the signal (measured movement) was much greater than the noise of the
measurements expected to be less than 0.05’. A typical minimally constrained adjustment, as described above
for M38, was processed for M39 to develop NAD83 (2007) Epoch 2007.00 CA Zone 5 State Plane Coordinates
and NAVD88 Heights.
The horizontal (2D) vector residuals averaged 0.03 feet with a Standard Deviation of 0.02 feet. The absolute
value of the vertical residuals averaged 0.04 feet with a Standard Deviation of 0.04 feet. At the 95% Level of
Confidence, estimated accuracy of the horizontal (2D) movements is 0.05 feet.
The adjustment fixed point PVE3RP (an indirect fix on PVE3) and checked to other points found to be stable.
Differences from the known fixed positions to the measured positions in this survey are listed here with their
north, east and vertical components in feet. The successful recovery of a stable reference frame (coordinate
system) is confirmed.
Differences in Feet
ID dN dE dZ_
PVE3RP 0.00 0.00 0.00 Fixed Reference at City Hall
AB02 0.01 0.01 -0.05 Check Point at Portuguese Point
RP01 -0.01 0.01 0.05 Check Point at Trump Golf Course
B-7A-25
McGEE SURVEYING CONSULTING
5290 Overpass Road, Ste#107, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Page 8 of 17
Table of 2D & Vertical Movements for 3.1 Months October 10, 2023 (M38) & January 13, 2024 (M39)
Listed below are the movement Azimuths (directions clockwise from North) in degrees, the two-dimensional
horizontal movements, and the vertical (elevation) changes during the period in US Survey Feet. See the
attached spreadsheet “PB MOVEMENT DATA POSTING (Revised 012224) 2007-Jan2024.xlsx”. Note: The
horizontal measured movement confidence is estimated at +/-0.04’ (1/2”); therefore, indicated movements of
less than 0.05’ are statistically indeterminate. The estimated vertical measured movement confidence is +/-0.08’.
* = Control Point for Recovery of the Reference Frame.
Point
ID
Azimuth° Horizontal
Movement
Vertical
Movement
Point
ID
Azimuth° Horizontal
Movement
Vertical
Movement
AB01 23 0.01 -0.1 KC13 188 0.44 0.0
AB02 27 0.01 0.0 KC14 262 0.03 0.0
AB04 223 3.52 -0.4 KC15 233 0.91 -0.3
AB05 230 2.76 -0.4 KC16 88 0.02 0.0
AB13 195 2.44 -0.4 KC17 218 0.80 -0.3
AB16 190 1.71 -0.1 KC18 200 2.03 -0.3
AB17 118 0.03 0.0 KC19 269 0.74 -0.2
AB21 197 2.80 0.1 KC20 277 0.67 -0.2
AB24 195 2.71 0.0 KC21 92 0.04 0.0
AB50 234 1.63 0.0 KC22 255 1.07 -0.5
AB51 200 2.08 0.0 KC23 237 0.57 -0.3
AB53 190 2.79 -0.3 KC24 199 1.22 -0.1
AB57 170 1.77 -0.5 PB04 202 2.63 0.0
AB58 179 2.50 -0.4 PB06 200 2.43 -0.2
AB59 185 3.11 -0.8 PB07 201 2.62 0.0
AB60 204 2.54 -0.2 PB08 201 2.60 0.0
AB62 203 2.62 -0.3 PB09 197 2.40 -0.1
AB63 207 2.79 -0.8 PB12 199 3.16 -0.3
AB64 128 0.19 0.0 PB13 199 2.51 0.0
AB65 167 1.98 -0.6 PB18 185 2.94 -0.5
AB66 193 2.41 -0.4 PB20 198 2.82 -0.3
AB67 181 1.56 -0.3 PB21 194 2.66 -0.5
AB68 191 2.28 -0.4 PB26 193 2.65 -0.2
AB70 200 2.85 -0.2 PB27 196 2.75 -0.5
AB71 158 1.35 -0.4 PB29 200 2.60 -0.7
AB73 202 2.52 -0.1 PB54 192 2.90 0.0
CR07 164 1.47 -1.2 PB55 198 2.88 -0.5
CR50 37 0.04 0.0 PB59 200 2.86 -0.3
CR51 107 0.04 0.2 PB67 195 3.32 -0.3
CR53 180 0.02 0.1 PB68 202 2.57 0.0
CR54 185 2.81 -0.9 PB69 201 2.82 -0.1
CW05 185 0.02 0.1 PB70 204 2.72 -0.3
CW06 59 0.05 0.1 PB71 197 2.90 0.0
FT06 191 2.48 -1.1 PB72 206 2.73 0.3
FT09 148 0.02 0.2 PB73 190 2.49 -0.4
KC02 193 1.30 0.0 PB74 193 3.08 -0.4
KC05 215 0.55 0.0 PB75 193 2.89 -0.1
KC06 256 0.94 -0.4 UB02 189 2.74 0.2
KC07 135 0.01 0.0 *PVE3RP 0 0 0.1
B-8A-26
McGEE SURVEYING CONSULTING
5290 Overpass Road, Ste#107, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Page 9 of 17
October 10, 2023 to January 13, 2024 Movement Distances (Feet) & Directions as Indicated
Note: Movement distances exaggerated 100x for viewing
Enlargement (PVDS) Enlargement (Seaview )
B-9A-27
Movements Oct. 10, 2023 to Jan. 13, 2024
Movements Oct. 10, 2023 to Jan .13, 2024
McGEE SURVEYING CONSULTING
5290 Overpass Road, Ste#107, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Page 10 of 17
ASSESSMENT of MOVEMENT VELOCITIES & ACCELERATIONS 2014 to 2024
Others performed monitoring surveys of the Portuguese Bend land movement between 1994 and 2006. McGee
Surveying Consulting assumed responsibility and defensibility for the Portuguese Bend Monitoring Program in
2007. The annual measured movements between 2007 and 2018 were fairly small and stable as shown below by
the averages and maximums of a sampling of points for the 2014-2018 period. The fall 2019 monitoring survey
found the annual rate of movements (velocities) increased (accelerated) about 4 to 6 times and remained stable
for the next four years through 2022. A “year” here is defined as the 12-month period beginning with the rainy
season on October 1st.
Annual Average Movements in Feet, Maximum Movements & Change in the Average of a Sample of Points
2014-2018(4 Yrs) 2018-2022(4 Yrs) Change in
ID Average Max. Average Max.__ _ Average
AB20 0.09 0.20 0.48 0.54 +5X
AB53 0.07 0.18 0.43 0.49 +6X
AB68 0.05 0.11 0.31 0.32 +6X
CR07 0.06 0.13 0.30 0.32 +5X
KC06 0.04 0.09 0.16 0.22 +4X
PB55 0.89 1.31 0.89 1.23 +1X (No Change)
In the following twelve months between October 2022 and October 2023, the annual rate of movements were
found to have again accelerated. The table below shows a sample of points within Abalone Cove (AB),
Klondike Canyon (KC) and Portuguese Bend (PB). The left half of the table compares the annual movements
and rate of movements per month for the October 2021 to October 2022 with the October 2022 to October 2023
period. The annual rate of movement for the sample averages in each slide increased about 6x for AB, 8x for KC
and 5x for PB.
In the same 12-month period between October 2022 and October 2023, accelerations were noted in the first
seven months over the previous year and again in the last five months over the previous seven months as shown
in the right half of the table below. The average rate of movement in each slide for these samples in the first
seven months October 2022 through April 2023 increased about 3x for AB, 4x for KC and 2x for PB over the
previous 12-month period of October 2021 to October 2022. The average rate of movements in each slide for
the samples in the last five months May 2023 to October 2023 increased 4x for AB, 4x for KC and 3x for PB
over the previous seven months.
October 2021 to October 2023 Movements & Rates per Month (Feet) M32 > M34 (12 Mo.) M34 > M38 (12 Mo.) M34 > M36 (7 Mo.) M36 > M38 (5 Mo.)
Point Oct '21 > Oct '22 Oct '22 > Oct '23 Oct '22 > May '23 May '22 > Oct '23 Movement Rate/Mo Movement Rate/Mo Movement Rate/Mo Movement Rate/Mo
AB20 0.51 0.042 3.06 0.255 0.84 0.119 2.22 0.444
AB53 0.49 0.041 2.75 0.229 0.74 0.105 2.01 0.403
AB58 0.41 0.034 2.22 0.185 0.60 0.085 1.62 0.325
AB60 0.45 0.038 2.69 0.224 0.80 0.114 1.90 0.379
AB67 0.18 0.015 1.12 0.094 0.32 0.046 0.80 0.160
AB68 0.32 0.027 2.03 0.169 0.54 0.077 1.49 0.299
AB70 0.48 0.040 2.97 0.248 0.84 0.120 2.14 0.427
CR07 0.31 0.026 1.87 0.156 0.44 0.062 1.43 0.287
Av Move 0.39 0.033 2.34 0.195 0.64 0.091 1.70 0.340
KC06 0.16 0.014 1.34 0.111 0.33 0.047 1.01 0.202
KC13 0.09 0.007 0.70 0.058 0.19 0.027 0.51 0.102
KC17 0.14 0.012 1.24 0.104 0.31 0.044 0.93 0.187
Av Move 0.13 0.011 1.09 0.091 0.27 0.039 0.82 0.163
PB55 0.80 0.067 3.86 0.321 1.06 0.151 2.80 0.560
PB70 0.72 0.060 3.58 0.299 1.14 0.163 2.44 0.488
Av Move 0.76 0.063 3.72 0.310 1.10 0.157 2.62 0.524
B-10A-28
McGEE SURVEYING CONSULTING
5290 Overpass Road, Ste#107, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Page 11 of 17
Movement & Rate of Movement per Month
In the last 3-month period October 10, 2023 to January 13, 2024,
accelerations were noted again relative to the previous 12-months.
The average rate of movements in each slide for the last 3-months
for these samples increased about 4x for AB, 3x for KC and 3x for
PB over the previous 12-month period of October 2022 to October
2023.
RECOMMENDATION
Continuity in the methods, precision and reporting of the monitoring surveys are necessary to evaluating results
relative to and consistent with prior 2007-2024 monitoring survey campaigns. Monitoring survey campaigns
require the services of an independent GNSS/Geodetic expert to evaluate and validate results to assure program
integrity and defensibility.
Maintaining a clearing of foliage in a 10’ radius around monitoring points and trimming nearby trees and brush
above eye height is necessary to assure a clear view of the sky for tracking satellites. Satellites, although unseen,
can appear anywhere in the sky above the horizon and the radio signals passing through foliage degrade the
required survey accuracy and productivity. Presently, Points AB04, AB13, AB17, AB24, AB51, AB58, AB66,
PB18, PB54, CR51 and CR53 have foliage obstructions limiting sky (satellite) visibility and require clearing prior
to the next survey.
Point M38 > M39 (3.1 Mo.) Oct. 10, 2023
to Jan. 13, 2024 Movement Rate/Mo
AB20 2.80 0.903
AB53 2.79 0.900
AB58 2.50 0.806
AB60 2.54 0.819
AB67 1.56 0.503
AB68 2.28 0.735
AB70 2.85 0.919
CR07 1.47 0.474
Average 2.35 0.758
KC06 0.94 0.303
KC13 0.44 0.142
KC17 0.80 0.258
Average 0.73 0.236
PB55 2.88 0.929
PB70 2.72 0.877
Average 2.80 0.903
B-11A-29
McGEE SURVEYING CONSULTING
5290 Overpass Road, Ste#107, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Page 12 of 17
Addendum No. 2 Report
Portuguese Bend Land Movement Monitoring Survey
Partial Monitoring Survey No. M40 – March 8, 2024
This is the mid-winter Partial Monitoring Survey No. M40 Report. The average date of the survey is March 8,
2024, 1.8 months after the January 13, 2024 Full Monitoring Survey. The survey included 44 monitoring points
and 3 reference control points. Occupying a central base station (usually AB73) was not feasible due to the
excessive rate of land movement and reliance was made on the remote Smartnet RTN Stations which resulted in
a lesser accuracy. For this survey, this was not an issue since the signal (measured movement) was much greater
than the noise of the measurements expected to be about less than 0.05’.
A typical minimally constrained network adjustment, as described above for survey M38, was processed for
M40 to develop NAD83 (2007) Epoch 2007.00 CA Zone 5 State Plane Coordinates and NAVD88 Heights. The
adjustment fixed point PVE3RP and checked to other points expected to be and found stable. Differences from
the known fixed positions to the measured positions in this survey are listed here with their north, east and
vertical components in feet.
Differences in Feet
ID dN dE dZ_
PVE3RP 0.00 0.00 0.00 Fixed Reference at City Hall
AB02 0.02 0.01 -0.09 Check Point on Portuguese Point
RP01 0.00 0.02 -0.10 Check Point at Trump Golf Course
The successful recovery of a stable horizontal reference frame confirmed. The Z height variations are attribted
to the noise in the Smartnet Network solution. RP01 is intended to replace AB02.
2D Horizontal & Vertical Movements for 1.8 Months January 13, 2024 (M39) to March 8, 2024 (M40)
The general rate of land movement increased significantly over the January 13, 2024 survey assessment. See the
attached spreadsheet “PB MOVEMENT DATA POSTING…. .xlsx” for the movement Azimuths (directions
clockwise from North) in degrees, the two-dimensional horizontal movements, and the vertical (elevation)
changes during the period in US Survey Feet. See also the column for the rate of movement for each period
annualized for an average month.
Accuracy Statements
The horizontal (2D) vector residuals averaged 0.04 feet with a Standard Deviation of 0.03 feet. The absolute
value of the vertical residuals averaged 0.04 feet with a Standard Deviation of 0.03 feet.
At the 95% Level of Confidence, the accuracy of the horizontal (2D) movements is estimated to be less than
0.04’. Movements of less than 0.05’ are statistically indeterminate. The estimated vertical measured movement
confidence is 0.06’ to 0.09’.
Addendum No. 3 Report
Portuguese Bend Land Movement Monitoring Survey
Partial Monitoring Survey No. M41 – April 17, 2024
This is the Spring Partial Monitoring Survey No. M41 Addendum Report. The field survey took place April 16-
18, 2024, average date of April 17, 2024, 1.35 months after the last March 8, 2024 Monitoring Survey. The
survey included 55 monitoring points and 3 reference control points. Eleven new monitoring points were set and
surveyed. The location of two new points were identified and will be surveyed on the next campaign in late May
after the monuments are set by others. See the points descriptions below.
B-12A-30
McGEE SURVEYING CONSULTING
5290 Overpass Road, Ste#107, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Page 13 of 17
Occupying previous base stations was not feasible due to the excessive rate of land movement. The Smartnet
RTN Network does not require a base station but results in a somewhat lesser accuracy. Smartnet may be used
in the future; however, it was deemed beneficial to establish a new base station outside the slide complex to
facilitate future surveys. A new base station point “RP02” was set westerly of the slide complex and north of
Abalone Cove Park.
A typical minimally constrained adjustment, as described above for the M38 survey, was processed for M41 to
develop NAD83 (2007) Epoch 2007.00 CA Zone 5 State Plane Coordinates and NAVD88 Heights. A least
sqaures network adjustment was fixed at point PVE3RP to establish a position on the base at RP02 and thereby
all other points in the survey. A check to RP01 easterluy outside the slide complex was made as noted below.
This process will be the standard on future surveys. Differences from the known fixed positions to the measured
positions in this survey are listed here with their north, east and vertical components in feet.
Differences in Feet
ID dN dE dZ_
PVE3RP 0.00 0.00 0.00 Fixed Reference at City Hall
RP01 -0.01 0.00 -0.03 Check Point at Trump Golf Course
The successful recovery of a stable horizontal reference frame is confirmed. Point AB02 replaced by RP01, was
used in previous surveys to also confirm recovery of the reference frame has limited access do to the slides.
2D Horizontal & Vertical Movements for 1.35 Months March 8, 2024 (M40) to April 17, 2024 (M41)
The general rate of land movement increased significantly over the March survey. On average the velocities
increased 76% with a maximum of 143%. Eight points doubled their velocities in the last six weeks over the
previous eight weeks. In Abalone Cove and Portuguese Bend Slides many points are moving about three feet per
month and in the Seaside Klondike Canyon Slide about ¾ of a foot per month. See the attached spreadsheet “PB
MOVEMENT DATA POSTING…. .xlsx” for the movement Azimuths (directions clockwise from North) in
degrees, the two-dimensional horizontal movements, and the vertical (elevation) changes during the period in
US Survey Feet. See also the column for the rate of movement for each period annualized for an average month.
Accuracy Statements
The horizontal (2D) vector residuals averaged 0.04 feet with a Standard Deviation of 0.03 feet. The absolute
value of the vertical residuals averaged 0.04 feet with a Standard Deviation of 0.03 feet.
The land is moving 0.05’ to 0.10’ daily. Most points are measured a day apart resulting in large residuals but
accurate positions of the mean coordinate. Therefore, it is at estimated the 95% Level of Confidence, the
accuracy of the horizontal (2D) movements is estimated to be less than 0.03’. Movements of less than 0.04’ are
statistically indeterminate. The estimated vertical measured movement confidence is 0.05’ to 0.10’.
Monitoring Point Monument Descriptions
See prior Reports for all other Point Descriptions. See the attached spreadsheet file “PB MOVEMENT DATA
POSTING….” for California State Plane Coordinates Zone 5 in the NAD83 (2007) Epoch 2007.00 and NAVD88 Datums n
Point Description of Points added in April 2024
AB74 8" Spike set as temporary monument to be replaced with a 2” GIP by others
AB75 8" Spike set as temporary monument to be replaced with a 2” GIP by others
AB76 8" Spike set as temporary monument to be replaced with a 2” GIP by others
AB77 Location identified, 2” GIP to be set by others
CR55 Set Mag Nail drilled in a Concrete walk/valley gutter
CR56 Location identified, 2” GIP to be set by others
KC25 Set Mag Nail drilled in a concrete & rock wall
KC26 Set Mag Nail drilled in a concrete wall
KC27 Set Mag Nail drilled in a concrete 6’ fire pit
KC28 Set Mag Nail drilled in a concrete headwall
KC29 Set Mag Nail drilled in a concrete headwall
KC30 8" Spike set as temporary monument to be replaced with a 2” GIP by others
KC31 8" Spike set as temporary monument to be replaced with a 2” GIP by others
RP02 ½” x 4’ rebar in large sloping meadow with T-bar witness for new base station
B-13A-31
McGEE SURVEYING CONSULTING
5290 Overpass Road, Ste#107, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Page 14 of 17
Addendum No. 4 Report
Portuguese Bend Land Movement Monitoring Survey
Full Monitoring Survey No. M42 – May 28, 2024
This is Full Monitoring Survey No. 42 Addendum Report. The field survey took place May 27-30, 2024, with an
average date of May 28, 2024, 1.35 months after the last April 17, 2024 Partial Monitoring Survey. The survey
included 93 monitoring points and 3 reference control points. Two new monitoring points (AB77 & CR56) were
set and surveyed. Seven temporary monuments were reset with a permanent monument. Monuments CW01,
CW07 and CW08, set in 2022 for CalWater, were adopted for the purpose of these surveys. See the point
descriptions below.
There are 14 monitoring points in the upper portion of the Reserve which are now difficult and time consuming
to access due to the slides. An assistant provided by sub-contractor Chris Nelson & Associates (CNA) has been
assigned these locations beginning with this May survey. CNA conducted their survey measurements with a
Trimble R12 referenced to the Smartnet RTN for positioning. These monitoring point observations were
referenced to the RPV Portuguese Bend network by way of connections to RP01, RP02 & PVE3RP. In the late
June survey, CAN will be using Leica instrument similar to those used by McGee Surveying Consulting to
assure the highest precision and increased productivity.
A minimally constrained adjustment, as described above for the above M38 Survey Report, was processed for
M42 to develop NAD83 (2007) Epoch 2007.00 CA Zone 5 State Plane Coordinates and NAVD88 Heights. A
least sqaures network adjustment was fixed at point PVE3RP to establish a position on the base at RP02 and
thereby all other points in the survey. A check to RP01 easterly outside the slide complex and other nearly stable
points were made as noted below. Differences from the known fixed positions to the measured positions by this
survey are listed here with their north, east and vertical components in feet.
Differences in Feet
ID dN dE dZ_
PVE3RP -0.00 -0.00 -0.00 Fixed Reference at City Hall
RP01 -0.00 0.01 -0.01
RP02 -0.03 0.02 -0.01
AB02 0.00 -0.02 0.09
The successful recovery of a stable reference frame is confirmed. Point RP01 is intended to superseded AB02
used in previous surveys to confirm recovery of the reference frame. AB02 now has limited access do to the
slides. Additionally, California Spatial Reference Center CGPS (Continous Operating GPS Stations) PVE3 and
PVHS are incorporated from time to time to verify the stability of the refence frame.
2D Horizontal & Vertical Movements for 1.35 Months April 17, 2024 (M41) to May 28, 2024 (M42)
The general rate of land movement increased in the last six weeks over the April survey. On average the
velocities increased about 40% which is an increased rate of movement; however, the rate of acceleration is less
than the estimated average of 76% in the previous six weeks. See the attached spreadsheet “PB MOVEMENT
DATA POSTING…. .xlsx” for the movement Azimuths (directions clockwise from North) in degrees, the two-
dimensional horizontal movements, and the vertical (elevation) changes during the period in US Survey Feet.
See also the column for the rate of movement for each period annualized for an average 30.42-day month.
Accuracy Statements
The horizontal (2D) vector residuals are estimated at 0.02 feet with a Standard Deviation of 0.03 feet. The
absolute value of the vertical residuals are estimated at 0.03 feet with a Standard Deviation of 0.04 feet.
The rate of land movement varies and is as much as 0.12’ daily. It is estimated at the 95% Level of Confidence,
the accuracy of the horizontal (2D) movements is estimated to be 0.04-0.06’. Movements less than the
B-14A-32
McGEE SURVEYING CONSULTING
5290 Overpass Road, Ste#107, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Page 15 of 17
Confidence Interval are statistically indeterminate. The estimated vertical measured movement confidence is
0.05’ to 0.10’.
Monitoring Point Monument Descriptions
See prior Reports for all other Point Descriptions. See the attached spreadsheet file “PB MOVEMENT DATA
POSTING….” for California State Plane Coordinates Zone 5 in the NAD83 (2007) Epoch 2007.00 and NAVD88 Datums n
Addendum No. 5 Report
Portuguese Bend Land Movement Monitoring Survey
Full Monitoring Survey No. M43 – July 1, 2024
This is Full Monitoring Survey No. 43 Addendum Report. The field survey took place June 30, 2024 to July 3,
2024 with an average date taken as July 1, 2024, 1.12 months after the last May 28 Monitoring Survey. The
survey included 93 monitoring points and 3 reference control points.
14 monitoring points in the upper portion of the Reserve require about three miles of hiking to access due to the
slides. An assistant provided by sub-contractor Chris Nelson & Associates (CNA) is assigned these locations. A
loaner GS18 Leica instrument same as used by McGee Surveying Consulting (MSC) and connected to MSC’s
RTK base station is utilized to assure the highest precision and increased productivity.
A minimally constrained adjustment, as described above for the above M38 Survey Report, was processed for
M43 to develop NAD83 (2007) Epoch 2007.00 CA Zone 5 State Plane Coordinates and NAVD88 Heights. A
least sqaures network adjustment was fixed at point PVE3RP to establish a position on the base at RP02 and
thereby all points in the survey. A check to RP01 easterly outside the slide complex, AB02 and other nearly
stable points were made as noted below. Differences from the known fixed positions to the measured positions
by this survey are listed here with their north, east and vertical components in feet.
Differences in Feet
ID dN dE dZ_
PVE3RP -0.00 -0.00 -0.00 Fixed Reference at City Hall
RP01 +0.01 -0.01 -0.00
RP02 -0.03 0.02 -0.01
AB02 -0.01 -0.02 +0.03
PVE3 +0.01 +0.00 -0.11 CSRC CGPS Station at City Hall
Recovery and confirmation of a stable reference frame is essential to assess the actual movement of the
monitoruing points. The diffeences listed above are at the noise level of the measurements confirming a
successful recovery of the reference frame. Because AB02 has limited access do to the slides, Point RP01 is
intended to suplement AB02 used in previous surveys to confirm recovery of the reference frame. Additionally,
California Spatial Reference Center CGPS (Continous Operating GPS Stations) PVE3 and PVHS are
incorporated to verify the stability and recovery of the refence frame.
2D Horizontal & Vertical Movements for 1.12 Months M42 to M43
The rate of land movement varies and averages about 3 feet per average month with a maximum of 4.88 feet.
The general rate of land movement increased about 25% on average; however, the rate of acceleration is less as
indicated by the estimated average increase of 41% in the rate of land movement in the previous month. See the
attached spreadsheet “PB MOVEMENT DATA POSTING…. .xlsx” for the movement Azimuths (directions
clockwise from North) in degrees, the two-dimensional horizontal movements, and the vertical (elevation)
changes during the period in US Survey Feet. See also the column for the rate of movement for each period
annualized for an average 30.42-day month.
B-15A-33
McGEE SURVEYING CONSULTING
5290 Overpass Road, Ste#107, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Page 16 of 17
Accuracy Statements
The horizontal (2D) vector residuals are estimated at 0.02 feet with a Standard Deviation of 0.03 feet. The
absolute value of the vertical residuals are estimated at 0.03 feet with a Standard Deviation of 0.04 feet.
It is estimated at the 95% Level of Confidence, the accuracy of the horizontal (2D) movements is estimated to
be 0.04-0.06’. Movements less than the Confidence Interval are statistically indeterminate. The estimated
vertical measured movement confidence is 0.05’ to 0.10’.
Monitoring Point Monument Descriptions
See prior Reports for Point Descriptions. See the attached spreadsheet file “PB MOVEMENT DATA POSTING….” for
California State Plane Coordinates Zone 5 in the NAD83 (2007) Epoch 2007.00 and elevations in the NAVD88 Datum.
Point Description: Update of Points set in April & May
AB74 1/2” x 4’ rebar encased in concrete witnessed by a steel t-bar post
AB75 1/2” x 4’ rebar encased in concrete witnessed by a steel t-bar post
AB76 1/2” x 4’ rebar encased in concrete witnessed by a steel t-bar post
AB77 1” x 24” GIP with cap “Control Point” encased in concrete witnessed by a steel t-bar post
CR56 1” x 24” GIP with cap “Control Point” encased in concrete witnessed by a steel t-bar post
CW07 ½” x 4’ punched rebar in concrete with T-bar witness post
CW08 ½” x 4’ punched rebar in concrete with T-bar witness post
KC30 1/2” x 4’ rebar encased in concrete witnessed by a steel t-bar post
KC31 8” spike set between two steel posts in line with a string of boulders
RP02 ½” x 4’ punched rebar in concrete in large sloping meadow witnessed by a steel T-bar post
Addendum No. 6 Report
Portuguese Bend Land Movement Monitoring Survey
Full Monitoring Survey No. M44 – August 1, 2024
This is Full Monitoring Survey No. 44 Addendum Report. The field survey took place July 30, 2024 to August
3, 2024 with an average date taken as August 1, 2024, 1.02 months after the last July 1 Monitoring Survey. The
survey included 98 monitoring points and 3 reference control points (RP01, RP02 & AB02).
15 monitoring points in the upper portion of the Reserve some requiring substantial hiking for access due to the
slides. An assistant provided by sub-contractor Chris Nelson & Associates (CNA) is assigned these locations.
A minimally constrained adjustment, as described above for the above M38 Survey Report, was processed for
M44 to develop NAD83 (2007) Epoch 2007.00 CA Zone 5 State Plane Coordinates and NAVD88 Heights. A
least sqaures network adjustment was fixed at point PVE3RP to verify and establish a position on the base
station point RP02 and thereby all points in the survey. A check to RP01 easterly outside the slide complex,
AB02 and other nearly stable points were made as noted below. Differences from the known fixed positions to
the measured positions by this survey are listed here with their north, east and vertical components in feet.
Differences in Feet
ID dN dE dZ_
PVE3RP -0.00 -0.00 -0.00 Fixed Reference at City Hall
RP01 0.03 -0.03 0.01 Check Point
RP02 -0.00 0.01 0.07 Base Station
AB02 -0.01 0.00 0.07 Check Point
AB17 0.00 0.00 0.05 Point Historically Not Moving
CW01 0.01 0.02 0.11 Point Historically Not Moving
KC16 0.00 0.01 0.10 Point Historically Not Moving
B-16A-34
McGEE SURVEYING CONSULTING
5290 Overpass Road, Ste#107, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Page 17 of 17
Recovery and confirmation of a stable reference frame is essential to assess the actual movement of the
monitoruing points. The diffeences listed above are at the noise level of the measurements confirming a
successful recovery of the reference frame. Because AB02 has limited access do to the slides, Point RP01 is
intended to supplement AB02 used in previous surveys to confirm recovery of the reference frame.
Additionally, California Spatial Reference Center CGPS (Continous Operating GPS Stations) PVE3 and PVHS
are incorporated at times for additional verification of the stability and recovery of the refence frame.
2D Horizontal & Vertical Movements for 1.02 Months M43 to M44
The rate of land movement varies and averaged about 2.4 feet per average month in the last period with a
maximum of 4.69 feet per month. The general rate (velocity) of land movement varied from about -13% to
+13% and averaged nearly zero. See the attached spreadsheet “PB MOVEMENT DATA POSTING…. .xlsx”
for the movement Azimuths (directions clockwise from North) in degrees, the two-dimensional horizontal
movements, vertical (elevation) changes during the period in US Survey Feet. See also the column for the rate of
movement for each period annualized for an average 30.42-day month.
Accuracy Statements
The horizontal (2D) vector residuals are estimated at 0.02 feet with a Standard Deviation of 0.03 feet. The
absolute value of the vertical residuals are estimated at 0.03 feet with a Standard Deviation of 0.04 feet.
It is estimated at the 95% Level of Confidence, the accuracy of the horizontal (2D) movements is estimated to
be 0.04’. Movements less than the Confidence Interval are statistically indeterminate. The estimated vertical
measured movement confidence is about 0.05’ to 0.10’.
Monitoring Point Monument Descriptions
See prior Reports for Point Descriptions. See the attached spreadsheet file “PB MOVEMENT DATA POSTING….” for
California State Plane Coordinates Zone 5 in the NAD83 (2007) Epoch 2007.00 and elevations in the NAVD88 Datum.
Point Description: Update of Points set in August
AB78 2” Magnetic Nail drilled in a concrete curb on the N. side of Vanderlip Dr., replaced AB71
CR57 ½” x 4’ punched rebar in concrete with T-bar witness post, replaces CR07
KC34 2” Magnetic Nail set in Stalwart Dr. East of Schooner Dr.
KC35 2” Magnetic Nail set in Xn of Schooner & Stalwart Dr.
KC36 2” Magnetic Nail set in Xn of Schooner & Admirable Dr.
KC37 Punch mark on north side Sewer MH in Admirable Dr. East of Schooner Dr.
SURVEYOR'S STATEMENT
The M38 Fall October 2023 Full Survey and subsequent 2024 Surveys
and Addendum Reports on the procedures, criteria, and results of the
City of Rancho Palos Verdes Portuguese Bend Land Movement
Monitoring Surveys were prepared by me on October 30, 2023 and
updated August 15, 2024 at the request of Ramzi Awwad, Director of
Public Works for the City of Rancho Palos Verdes.
B-17A-35
,m ~L~
Michael R. McGee PLS3945
EXHIBIT D
CSA REPORT
April 26, 2024
A-36
SC6163 1
CSA Project No. SC6163
MEMORANDUM
TO: Ara Mihranian, City Manager
CC: Ramzi Awwad, Public Works Director
Elena Gerli, City Attorney
Cory Linder, Director of Recreation and Parks
Katie Lozano, Open Space Manager
FROM: Michael Phipps, CEG 1832, Contract City Geologist
RE: Update on Land Movement Conditions Within the Greater Portuguese Bend
Landslide Complex, Rancho Palos Verdes
DATE: April 26, 2024
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
The following information was prepared in response to the City’s request for an update on current land
movement conditions, observations, and our activities over the past six weeks within the Greater
Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex (Landslide Complex). The Landslide Complex encompasses four
historically active landslide areas: the Portuguese Bend Landslide (PBL), the Abalone Cove Landslide
(ACL), the Klondike Canyon Landslide (KCL), and the Beach Club Landslide (BCL). However, it also
includes areas outside of the historical boundaries of those known landslides, predominantly uphill
from the Portuguese Bend and Abalone Cove landslides, within the Ancient Portuguese Bend
Landslide Complex as mapped by various agencies (i.e., U.S. Geological Survey, California Geological
Survey) and other researchers.
Activities: Since our presentation to the City Council on March 19, 2024, CSA staff have conducted the
following activities:
•Performed field mapping throughout the Landslide Complex, including areas within the
Portuguese Bend, Filiorum, Forrestal, and Abalone Cove Reserves, and the Glass Parcel;
•Participated in the weekly meeting of the RPV Landslide Complex Working Group;
•Provided additional input to OSM staff and the PVPLC related to annual fuel modification, non-
native brush removal and habitat restoration projects;
•Analyzed GPS monitoring data and recommended installation of new monitoring points;
•Compiled and reviewed rainfall data;
•Presented information regarding the landslide at the April 17, 2024 Town Hall Meeting;
•Peer reviewed the proposed E1/E2 hydrauger emergency measures, including online (Teams)
meetings on April 11, 16 and 18 to convey preliminary comments;
•Participated in twice-weekly status meeting regarding the proposed emergency measures;
•Peer review of the proposed KCLAD 5-step plan (in progress)
B-1A-37
,.... <::oTTON, SHIRES AND AssOCIA TES, INC.
--CONSULTING ENGINEERS AND GEOLOGISTS
l,T I
CrrY OF •~-RAN CHO PALOS VER DES
SC6163 2
Rainfall: Rainfall and the resulting runoff and infiltration into the Landslide Complex continues to
adversely affect the landslide area, following a significantly wetter than average (193%) rainy season in
2022-23. The second wettest February (11.22 inches) in the 67-year history of the Rolling Hills Fire
Station rain gauge was recorded, after which rainfall amounts moderated in the latter half of March
and through April to date, with 3.28 inches of rain falling since March 15, 2024. The current season
rainfall total is 23.01 inches, about 169% of the season average over the past 67 years (LACDPW Gauge
1011B at Rolling Hills Fire Station 56).
Land Movement Data: CSA’s January 29, 2024 update memorandum noted that average land
movement velocities within the Landslide Complex from October 10, 2023 to January 13, 2024 had
accelerated by a factor of 3x to 4x compared to the previous 12-month (Oct 2022-Oct 2023) monitoring
period. Our March 15, 2024 update memorandum noted that land movement velocities within the
Landslide Complex had then accelerated an additional 1.3x to 2.2x through early March, compared to
the movement velocities in the October 2023-January 2024 timeframe. This acceleration was noted to
be greatest in the ACL (2.2x) and areas upslope of it in the Ancient Portuguese Bend Landslide (2.1x).
The lowest acceleration (1.3x) was for points in the KCL. Preliminary GPS survey data prepared by
McGee Surveying Consulting, covering the period March 8, 2024 to April 17, 2024, were recently
reviewed and analyzed. Across the entire landslide complex, average land movement velocity has
accelerated an additional 76% (1.76x) above the January-March 2024 velocity. Recent land movement
rates are approximately 6 to 9 inches per week in the ACL, 5 to 9 inches per week in the PBL, and 1 to
4 inches per week in the KCL. The middle of the overall Landslide Complex is moving the fastest at >9
inches per week. This information is shown graphically on the attached Figure 1--GPS Monitoring
Displacement Rate Contour Map. To provide a broader perspective timewise, average land movement
velocities have increased 95x, 31x and 41x over November 2019 measurements, for the ACL, PBL and
KCL, respectively. The entire active landslide complex (area of major land movement now evident at
the ground surface) has expanded from 380 acres to 675 acres. This movement continues to manifest at
the ground surface in the form of landslide scarps, fissures, grabens/sinkholes, tensional cracking, shear
zones and thrust features. Due to the continued acceleration, the ground movement features have
continued to enlarge, expand, widen, or grow depending on the type of feature and location.
Incremental horizontal displacements with land movement vectors from October 2022 through April
17, 2024 are shown on the attached Figure 2—GPS Monitoring Displacement Map.
Field Observations: Road conditions on Palos Verdes Drive South (PVDS) across the lower landslide
complex continue to be adversely impacted due to differential rates of land movement currently
ranging from about 5 to 8 inches per week. More surface expression of land movement is also evident
but is still slowly developing along the eastern margin of the KCL on Exultant Drive, Admirable Drive,
the PVDS frontage street, and the Dauntless Drive/Admirable Drive intersection in the Seaview
neighborhood. We have observed rapidly deteriorating conditions on private roads, most notably
Narcissa Drive, Cinnamon Lane, and Vanderlip Road which have been impacted by major fissures and
formation of grabens, and Seawall Drive in the Portuguese Bend Beach Club which is being deformed
by bulging/uplifting ground at the toe of the KCL. The beach area of the Portuguese Bend Beach Club
appears to be undergoing significant uplift across a broad area. Beach School Trail (Road) continues to
undergo deformation in the lower ACL area but remains passable to the Portuguese Bend Nursery
School and L.A. County lifeguard station due to ongoing maintenance efforts. Movement of the
B-2A-38
SC6163 3
Landslide Complex overriding Portuguese Point south of PVDS has toppled a portion of the rock
retaining wall adjacent to Olmsted Trail and is affecting authorized users of Olmsted Trail access to
Abalone Cove.
In summary, our findings continue to be that the PBL, ACL, KCL, and a large portion of the Ancient
Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex above the historically mapped PBL, ACL and KCL boundaries is
involved in significant active landslide movement moving at unprecedented rates, predominantly in
response to two consecutive seasons of significantly above average rainfall. The land movement
continues to adversely impact trails and open space areas, public and private roads, private property
including hundreds of residences, and utility infrastructure.
-o-
Attachments: Figure 1-- GPS Monitoring Displacement Rate Contour Map
Figure 2—GPS Monitoring Displacement Map
B-3A-39
0 250 500 1000
(feet)
PONY TRAIL
PORTUGUESE
BEND
LANDSLIDE
FLYING
TRIANGLE
LANDSLIDE
KLONDIKE
CANYON
LANDSLIDE
ABALONE
COVE
LANDSLIDE
ABALONE
COVE
PORTUGUESE
POINT
INSPIRATION
POINT
SACRED
COVE
APPROXIMATE BOUNDARY OF
ANCIENT PORTUGUESE BEND
LANDSLIDE COMPLEX
BURMA ROAD
NARCISSA DRIVE
SWEETBAY
ROAD
PALOS VERDES DRIVE SOUTH
CREST
ROAD
EXPLANATION
Limits of the Ancient Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex
Limits of Historically Mapped Landslides
2023/2024 Landslide Mapping
SEAVIEW TRACT
Current Limits of Major
Landslide Movement (March
2024)
CURRENT LIMITS OF
MAJOR LANDSLIDE
MOVEMENT (MARCH 2024)
GPS Monument
Displacement Rate
(March 8, 2024 to April
17, 2024) Displacement
Vector Scale 1"=
8"/week
AB04
7.47
AB13
8.53
AB16
6.09
AB17
0.03
AB21
9.13
AB50
5.16
AB51
7.27
AB57
5.60
AB58
9.09
AB59
9.68
AB60
8.54
AB62
6.63
AB64
0.34
AB65
7.17
AB67
5.76
AB68
7.86
AB70
9.66
AB71
3.58
AB73
8.07
CR07
3.37
CR50
0.19
CR53
0.26
CR54
8.55
KC06
2.05
KC07
0.08
KC15
2.00
KC17
1.78
KC20
1.62
KC22
2.20
KC23
1.25
KC24
2.80
PB04
8.13
PB08
7.34
PB13
5.94
PB18
9.14
PB26
6.56
PB55
8.16
PB67
8.82
PB69
8.32
PB70
8.43
PB71
9.32
PB72
8.51
PB73
7.08
PB75
8.76
RP01
0.06
KC18
4.60
Minimum Rate
(inch/week)
0.00
1.00
2.00
3.00
4.00
5.00
6.00
7.00
8.00
9.00
Maximum Rate
(inch/week)
1.00
2.00
3.00
4.00
5.00
6.00
7.00
8.00
9.00
10.00
Color
COTTON,S HIRES AND ASSOCIATES, INC.
CONSULTING ENGINEERS AND GEOLOGISTS
RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA
SC6163
POS
MP 1"=500'
PROJECT NO.
DATE
April 26, 2024
SCALE
APPROVED BY
GEO/ENG BY
GPS MONITORING DISPLACEMENT RATE
CONTOUR MAP (4/17/24 DATA)
FIGURE NO. 1
Abalone Cove, Portuguese Bend, Klondike Canyon
Hillshade basemap produced from publicly available LiDAR:
"2015 - 2016 LARIAC Lidar DEM: Los Angeles Region, CA"NOTES:
1)October 10, 2023 GPS monitoring data was unavailable for monuments AB21, CR54, CW05, CW06, KC19,
KC20, KC21, KC22, KC23, KC24, PB72, PB73, PB74, PB75, and RP01.
2)January 13, 2024 GPS monitoring data was unavailable for monuments AB20 and FT08.
3)March 8, 2024 GPS monitoring data was unavailable for monuments AB01, AB04, AB05, AB20, AB24, AB53,
AB63, AB66, CR51, CW05, CW06, FT06, FT08, FT09, KC05, KC13, KC14, KC16, KC18, KC19, KC21, PB06,
PB07, PB09, PB12, PB20, PB21, PB27, PB29, PB54, PB59, PB68, PB74, and UB02.
4)April 17, 2024 GPS monitoring data was unavailable for monuments AB01, AB02, AB05, AB20, AB24, AB53,
AB63, AB66, CR51, CW05, CW06, FT06, FT08, FT09, KC05, KC13, KC14, KC16, KC18, KC19, KC21, PB06,
PB07, PB09, PB12, PB20, PB21, PB27, PB29, PB54, PB59, PB68, PB74, and UB02. KC18 estimated.
B-4A-40
.,,. ,, -....)
-----
__,,.
•
,
I
,-
I
♦
■
■
■
■
■
■
■
■
■
I r
r
....
i
T
0
ro·
C
l ,,.:
••
II'
-
---
I I
/
~-
/ ,
/ -· I/
I
/
-✓ J -/
I I
, J
(_ -
___,.i r / -/'
i -• -♦ ,
0 250 500 1000
(feet)
PORTUGUESE
BEND
LANDSLIDE
FLYING
TRIANGLE
LANDSLIDE
KLONDIKE
CANYON
LANDSLIDE
ABALONE
COVE
LANDSLIDE
APPROXIMATE BOUNDARY OF
ANCIENT PORTUGUESE BEND
LANDSLIDE COMPLEX
EXPLANATION
Limits of the Ancient Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex
Limits of Historically Mapped Landslides
2023/2024 Landslide Mapping
Current Limits of Major Landslide Movement (March 2024)
CURRENT LIMITS OF
MAJOR LANDSLIDE
MOVEMENT (MARCH 2024)
GPS Monument Displacement (October 10, 2022 to October 10,
2023) Displacement Vector Scale 1"=5'
GPS Monument Displacement (October 10, 2023 to January 13,
2024) Displacement Vector Scale 1"=5'
GPS Monument Displacement (January 13, 2024 to March 8,
2024) Displacement Vector Scale 1"=5'
AB01
AB02
AB04
AB05
AB13
AB16
AB17
AB20AB21
AB24
AB50
AB51
AB53
AB57
AB58
AB59
AB60
AB62
AB63
AB64
AB65
AB66
AB67
AB68
AB70
AB71
AB73
CR07
CR50 CR51
CR53
CR54
CW05
CW06
FT06
FT08
FT09
KC02 KC05
KC06
KC07
KC13
KC14
KC15 KC16
KC17
KC18
KC19
KC20
KC21KC22
KC23
KC24
PB04
PB06
PB07 PB08 PB09 PB12
PB13
PB18
PB20
PB21
PB26
PB27
PB29
PB54
PB55
PB59
PB67PB68
PB69PB70
PB71
PB72
PB73
PB74
PB75
UB02
RP01
GPS Monument Displacement (March 8, 2024 to April 17, 2024)
Displacement Vector Scale 1"=5'
365 days
95 days
55 days
40 days
COTTON,S HIRES AND ASSOCIATES, INC.
CONSULTING ENGINEERS AND GEOLOGISTS
RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA
SC6163
POS
MP 1"=500'PROJECT NO.
DATEApril 26, 2024
SCALE
APPROVED BY
GEO/ENG BY
GPS MONITORING DISPLACEMENT MAP
FIGURE NO. 2
Abalone Cove, Portuguese Bend, Klondike Canyon
Hillshade basemap produced from publicly available LiDAR:
"2015 - 2016 LARIAC Lidar DEM: Los Angeles Region, CA"NOTES:
1) October 10, 2023 GPS monitoring data was unavailable for monuments AB21, CR54, CW05, CW06, KC19,
KC20, KC21, KC22, KC23, KC24, PB72, PB73, PB74, PB75, and RP01.
2) January 13, 2024 GPS monitoring data was unavailable for monuments AB20 and FT08.
3) March 8, 2024 GPS monitoring data was unavailable for monuments AB01, AB04, AB05, AB20, AB24, AB53,
AB63, AB66, CR51, CW05, CW06, FT06, FT08, FT09, KC05, KC13, KC14, KC16, KC18, KC19, KC21, PB06,
PB07, PB09, PB12, PB20, PB21, PB27, PB29, PB54, PB59, PB68, PB74, and UB02.
4) April 17, 2024 GPS monitoring data was unavailable for monuments AB01, AB02, AB05, AB20, AB24, AB53,
AB63, AB66, CR51, CW05, CW06, FT06, FT08, FT09, KC05, KC13, KC14, KC16, KC18, KC19, KC21, PB06,
PB07, PB09, PB12, PB20, PB21, PB27, PB29, PB54, PB59, PB68, PB74, and UB02.
B-5A-41
__,,.
--·
EXHIBIT E
CSA GEO REPORT
June 25, 2024
A-42
SC6163 1
CSA Project No. SC6163
MEMORANDUM
TO: Ara Mihranian, City Manager
CC: Ramzi Awwad, Public Works Director
Elena Gerli, City Attorney
Cory Linder, Director of Recreation and Parks
Katie Lozano, Open Space Manager
FROM: Michael Phipps, CEG 1832, Contract City Geologist
RE: Update on Land Movement Conditions Within the Greater Portuguese Bend
Landslide Complex, Rancho Palos Verdes
DATE: June 25, 2024
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
The following information was prepared in response to the City’s request for an update on current land
movement conditions, observations, and our activities over the past six weeks within the Greater
Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex (Landslide Complex). The Landslide Complex encompasses four
historically active landslide areas: the Portuguese Bend Landslide (PBL), the Abalone Cove Landslide
(ACL), the Klondike Canyon Landslide (KCL), and the Beach Club Landslide (BCL). However, it also
includes areas outside of the historical boundaries of those known landslides, predominantly uphill
from the Portuguese Bend and Abalone Cove landslides, within the Ancient Portuguese Bend
Landslide Complex as mapped by various agencies (i.e., U.S. Geological Survey, California Geological
Survey) and other researchers.
Activities: Since our presentation to the City Council on May 7, 2024, CSA staff have conducted the
following activities:
• Performed field mapping throughout the Landslide Complex, including areas within the
Portuguese Bend, Filiorum, Forrestal, and Abalone Cove Reserves, the Portuguese Bend Beach
Club, the Portuguese Bend Community Association, the York Property, and areas within the
Abalone Cove Landslide Abatement District (ACLAD) and Klondike Canyon Geological Hazard
Abatement District (KCGHAD);
• Participated in the weekly meeting of the RPV Landslide Complex Working Group;
• Analyzed GPS monitoring data prepared by McGee Surveying Consulting, from April 17, 2024 and
May 28, 2024 monitoring events;
• Compiled and reviewed rainfall data;
• Completed peer review of the proposed KCLAD 5-step plan;
• Evaluated InSAR as a potential landslide monitoring tool;
• Observed and logged (as a second party) Test Borings E-1-10, E-1-5A and E-1-5-S;
• Reviewed requests for emergency grading and foundation repairs.
B-1A-43
,.... <::oTTON, SHIRES AND AssOCIA TES, INC.
--CONSULTING ENGINEERS AND GEOLOGISTS
l,T I
CrrY OF •~-RAN CHO PALOS VER DES
SC6163 2
Rainfall: The 2023-24 season rainfall and the resulting runoff and infiltration into the Landslide
Complex continues to adversely affect the landslide area, following a significantly wetter than average
(193%) rainy season in 2022-23. The current season rainfall total is 23.19 inches, about 170% of the
season average over the past 67 years (LACDPW Gauge 1011B at Rolling Hills Fire Station 56). Only
0.18 inches of rain was recorded at this gauge since our last update on April 26, 2024.
Land Movement Data: Recent GPS survey data published by McGee Surveying Consulting for the
period April 17, 2024 through May 28, 2024 were reviewed and analyzed. As noted in previous updates
(CSA, 12/12/23, 1/29/24, 3/8/24 and 4/26/24), land movement velocities calculated from GPS survey
monitoring data have continued to accelerate throughout the Landslide Complex since October 2022.
For the most recent 41-day monitoring period of April 17-May 28, 2024, average land movement
velocity has accelerated an additional 41% (1.41x) above the March 8-April 17, 2024 monitoring period
velocity. Recent land movement rates (velocities) are approximately 7 to 11 inches per week in the
ACL, 9 to 12 inches per week in the PBL, and 2 to 7 inches per week in the KCL (with highest velocities
in the western KCL occurring between Klondike Canyon and the eastern PBL boundary). The GPS
monitoring data are presented graphically on attached Figures 1 through 3. Figure 1 presents scaled,
incremental displacements and movement vectors since October 2022. Figure 2 presents scaled
displacement rates (i.e., movement velocities) and vectors since October 2022. Figure 3 presents a
contour map (aka “heat map”) of displacement rates for the current April 17-May 28, 2024 monitoring
period.
Of continued interest is that the middle of the overall Landslide Complex is moving the fastest at >13
inches per week. The velocity contours in the 12-13 inch/week range are generally west of the historical
PBL boundary, and a large portion of the center of the overall Landslide Complex is moving at greater
than 11 inches per week. This represents a significant and unprecedented change in movement
behavior from historical movements of the PBL and ACL. The entire active Landslide Complex (area of
major land movement now evident at the ground surface) has expanded from the combined historical
boundaries of the ACL/PBL/KCL of about 380 acres, to an estimated 680 acres in size. Based upon our
review of the current land movement data, field mapping of active landslide limits, recent boring
information, as well as historical data from previous geotechnical investigations, there is growing
evidence that landslide movement is occurring on multiple failure surfaces (i.e., “slide planes”)
including movement on the historically modeled/structure-contoured failure surfaces of the ACL and
PBL, as well as a deeper “ancient” landslide surface previously identified beneath the PBL (BYA/Ehlig,
1997; Leighton 1998, 2000, 2001).
Field Observations: Landslide movement continues to manifest at the ground surface in the form of
scarps, fissures, grabens/sinkholes, tensional cracking, shear zones and thrust features. Due to the
continued acceleration of the landslide, the ground movement features have continued to enlarge,
expand, widen, or grow depending on the type of feature and location. Based upon recent field
mapping, the total area of the active Landslide Complex has expanded by approximately five acres
including the following areas:
• The eastern landslide boundary of the KCL is now manifesting approximately 50 feet farther
east on Admirable Drive and 150 feet farther east on Exultant Drive; however, these boundaries
B-2A-44
SC6163 3
appear to be consistent with historical mapping of the KCL and the location of a pre-
development drainage course that is believed to define the easterly limit of prehistoric
landsliding.
• The westerly boundary of the active Landslide Complex in the Abalone Cove Landslide area
has expanded approximately 180 feet farther west at Narcissa Drive and on the York property
at 6001 PV Drive South. This new expanded landslide movement is quickly deforming the
Narcissa Drive curve and is the same movement that has displaced the administration building
and caused major bulging of the parking lot at the Wayfarer’s Chapel property.
• The Portuguese Bend Beach Club area continues to experience major deformation along Seawall
Road and bulging/uplift on the order of 4 to 5 feet across the beach on an east-west trend. This
deformation appears to continue offshore into the PBL based on major emergence of land in the
surf zone and nearshore zone at the southeasterly toe of the PBL. In this area, the seafloor has
uplifted above mean sea level approximately 200 to 300 feet south of the former foreshore slope
of the beach.
Road conditions on Palos Verdes Drive South (PVDS) across the lower landslide complex continue to
be adversely impacted due to differential rates of land movement currently ranging from about 2 to 7
inches/week across the KCL, 8-12 inches per week across the PBL, and 5-10 inches per week across the
ACL. Portuguese Point is being overridden by the landslide, resulting in failure of the historical rock
wall along the Olmsted Trail and loss of beach access to Abalone Cove via Olmsted Trail.
In summary, our findings continue to be that the PBL, ACL, KCL, and a large portion of the Ancient
Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex outside of the historically mapped PBL, ACL and KCL
boundaries is involved in significant active landslide movement moving at unprecedented rates,
predominantly in response to two consecutive seasons of significantly above average rainfall. The land
movement continues to severely impact trails and open space areas, public and private roads, private
property including hundreds of residential structures, and utility infrastructure.
-o-
Attachments: Figure 1-- GPS Monitoring Displacement & Vector Map
Figure 2—GPS Monitoring Displacement Rate & Vector Map
Figure 3—GPS Monitoring Displacement Rate Contour Map (5/28/24 Data)
B-3A-45
0 250 500 1000
(feet)
PONY TRAIL
PORTUGUESE
BEND
LANDSLIDE
FLYING
TRIANGLE
LANDSLIDE
KLONDIKE
CANYON
LANDSLIDE
ABALONE
COVE
LANDSLIDE
ABALONE
COVE
PORTUGUESE
POINT
INSPIRATION
POINT
SACRED
COVE
APPROXIMATE BOUNDARY OF
ANCIENT PORTUGUESE BEND
LANDSLIDE COMPLEX
BURMA ROAD
NARCISSA DRIVE
SWEETBAY
ROAD
PALOS VERDES DRIVE SOUTH
CREST
ROAD
EXPLANATION
Limits of the Ancient Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex
Limits of Historically Mapped Landslides
2023/2024 Landslide Mapping
SEAVIEW TRACT
Current Limits of Major Landslide Movement (March 2024)
CURRENT LIMITS OF
MAJOR LANDSLIDE
MOVEMENT (MARCH 2024)
GPS Monument Displacement (October 10, 2022 to October 10,
2023) Displacement Vector Scale 1"=5'
GPS Monument Displacement (October 10, 2023 to January 13,
2024) Displacement Vector Scale 1"=5'
GPS Monument Displacement (January 13, 2024 to March 8,
2024) Displacement Vector Scale 1"=5'
GPS Monument Displacement (March 8, 2024 to April 17, 2024)
Displacement Vector Scale 1"=5'
365 days
95 days
55 days
40 days
GPS Monument Displacement (April 17, 2024 to May 28, 2024)
Displacement Vector Scale 1"=5'41 days
AB01
AB02
AB04
AB05
AB13
AB16
AB17
AB20AB21
AB24
AB50
AB51
AB53
AB57
AB58
AB59
AB60
AB62
AB63
AB64
AB65
AB66
AB67
AB68
AB70
AB71
AB73
CR07
CR50 CR51
CR53
CR54
CW05
CW06
FT06
FT08
FT09
KC02 KC05
KC06
KC07
KC13
KC14
KC15 KC16
KC17
KC18
KC19
KC20
KC21
KC22
KC23
KC24
PB04
PB06
PB07 PB08 PB09 PB12
PB13
PB18
PB20
PB21
PB26
PB27
PB29
PB54
PB55
PB59
PB67PB68
PB69
PB70
PB71
PB72
PB73
PB74
PB75
UB02
RP01
AB74 AB75
AB76
KC25
KC26
KC27KC28
KC29
KC30
KC31
RP02
COTTON,S HIRES AND ASSOCIATES, INC.
CONSULTING ENGINEERS AND GEOLOGISTS
RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA
SC6163
POS
MP
June 17, 2024
1"=500'
PROJECT NO.
DATE
SCALE
APPROVED BY
GEO/ENG BY
GPS MONITORING DISPLACEMENT MAP
FIGURE NO. 1
Abalone Cove, Portuguese Bend, Klondike Canyon
Hillshade basemap produced from publicly available LiDAR:
"2015 - 2016 LARIAC Lidar DEM: Los Angeles Region, CA"NOTES:
1) October 10, 2023 GPS monitoring data was unavailable for monuments AB21, CR54, CW05, CW06, KC19,
KC20, KC21, KC22, KC23, KC24, PB72, PB73, PB74, PB75, and RP01.
2) January 13, 2024 GPS monitoring data was unavailable for monuments AB20 and FT08.
3) March 8, 2024 GPS monitoring data was unavailable for monuments AB01, AB04, AB05, AB20, AB24, AB53,
AB63, AB66, CR51, CW05, CW06, FT06, FT08, FT09, KC05, KC13, KC14, KC16, KC18, KC19, KC21, PB06,
PB07, PB09, PB12, PB20, PB21, PB27, PB29, PB54, PB59, PB68, PB74, and UB02.
4) April 17, 2024 GPS monitoring data was unavailable for monuments AB01, AB02, AB05, AB20, AB24, AB53,
AB63, AB66, CR51, CW05, CW06, FT06, FT08, FT09, KC05, KC13, KC14, KC16, KC18, KC19, KC21, PB06,
PB07, PB09, PB12, PB20, PB21, PB27, PB29, PB54, PB59, PB68, PB74, and UB02.
B-4A-46
0 250 500 1000
(feet)
PONY TRAIL
PORTUGUESE
BEND
LANDSLIDE
KLONDIKE
CANYON
LANDSLIDE
ABALONE
COVE
LANDSLIDE
ABALONE
COVE
PORTUGUESE
POINT
INSPIRATION
POINT
SACRED
COVE
APPROXIMATE BOUNDARY OF
ANCIENT PORTUGUESE BEND
LANDSLIDE COMPLEX
BURMA ROAD
NARCISSA DRIVE
SWEETBAY
ROAD
PALOS VERDES DRIVE SOUTH
CREST
ROAD
SEAVIEW TRACT
CURRENT LIMITS OF
MAJOR LANDSLIDE
MOVEMENT (MARCH 2024)
FLYING
TRIANGLE
LANDSLIDE
EXPLANATION
Limits of the Ancient Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex
Limits of Historically Mapped Landslides
2023/2024 Landslide Mapping
Current Limits of Major Landslide Movement (March 2024)
GPS Monument Displacement Rate (October 10, 2022 to
October 10, 2023) Displacement Vector Scale 1"= 8"/week
GPS Monument Displacement Rate (October 10, 2023 to
January 13, 2024) Displacement Vector Scale 1"= 8"/week
GPS Monument Displacement Rate (January 13, 2024 to March
8, 2024) Displacement Vector Scale 1"= 8"/week
GPS Monument Displacement Rate (March 8, 2024 to April 17,
2024) Displacement Vector Scale 1"= 8"/week
365 days
95 days
55 days
40 days
GPS Monument Displacement Rate (April 17, 2024 to May 28,
2024) Displacement Vector Scale 1"= 8"/week41 days
AB01
AB02
AB04
AB05
AB13
AB16
AB17
AB20AB21
AB24
AB50
AB51
AB53
AB57
AB58
AB59
AB60
AB62
AB63
AB64
AB65
AB66
AB67
AB68
AB70
AB71
AB73
CR07
CR50 CR51
CR53
CR54
CW05
CW06
FT06
FT08
FT09
KC02 KC05
KC06
KC07
KC13
KC14
KC15 KC16
KC17
KC18
KC19
KC20
KC21
KC22
KC23
KC24
PB04
PB06
PB07
PB08 PB09 PB12
PB13
PB18
PB20
PB21
PB26
PB27
PB29
PB54
PB55
PB59
PB67PB68
PB69
PB70
PB71
PB72
PB73
PB74
PB75
UB02
RP01
AB74 AB75
AB76
KC25
KC26
KC27KC28
KC29
KC30
KC31
RP02
COTTON,S HIRES AND ASSOCIATES, INC.
CONSULTING ENGINEERS AND GEOLOGISTS
RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA
SC6163
POS
MP
June 17, 2024
1"=500'
PROJECT NO.
DATE
SCALE
APPROVED BY
GEO/ENG BY
GPS MONITORING DISPLACEMENT RATE MAP
FIGURE NO. 2
Abalone Cove, Portuguese Bend, Klondike Canyon
Hillshade basemap produced from publicly available LiDAR:
"2015 - 2016 LARIAC Lidar DEM: Los Angeles Region, CA"NOTES:
1) October 10, 2023 GPS monitoring data was unavailable for monuments AB21, CR54, CW05, CW06, KC19,
KC20, KC21, KC22, KC23, KC24, PB72, PB73, PB74, PB75, and RP01.
2) January 13, 2024 GPS monitoring data was unavailable for monuments AB20 and FT08.
3) March 8, 2024 GPS monitoring data was unavailable for monuments AB01, AB04, AB05, AB20, AB24, AB53,
AB63, AB66, CR51, CW05, CW06, FT06, FT08, FT09, KC05, KC13, KC14, KC16, KC18, KC19, KC21, PB06,
PB07, PB09, PB12, PB20, PB21, PB27, PB29, PB54, PB59, PB68, PB74, and UB02.
4) April 17, 2024 GPS monitoring data was unavailable for monuments AB01, AB02, AB05, AB20, AB24, AB53,
AB63, AB66, CR51, CW05, CW06, FT06, FT08, FT09, KC05, KC13, KC14, KC16, KC18, KC19, KC21, PB06,
PB07, PB09, PB12, PB20, PB21, PB27, PB29, PB54, PB59, PB68, PB74, and UB02.
B-5A-47
. 'l))
• --
---p
0 250 500 1000
(feet)
PONY TRAIL
PORTUGUESE
BEND
LANDSLIDE
FLYING
TRIANGLE
LANDSLIDE
KLONDIKE
CANYON
LANDSLIDE
ABALONE
COVE
LANDSLIDE
ABALONE
COVE
PORTUGUESE
POINT
INSPIRATION
POINT
SACRED
COVE
APPROXIMATE BOUNDARY OF
ANCIENT PORTUGUESE BEND
LANDSLIDE COMPLEX
BURMA ROAD
NARCISSA DRIVE
SWEETBAY
ROAD
PALOS VERDES DRIVE SOUTH
CREST
ROAD
EXPLANATION
Limits of the Ancient Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex
Limits of Historically Mapped Landslides
2023/2024 Landslide Mapping
SEAVIEW TRACT
Current Limits of Major
Landslide Movement (March
2024)
CURRENT LIMITS OF
MAJOR LANDSLIDE
MOVEMENT (MARCH 2024)
GPS Monument
Displacement Rate (April
17, 2024 to May 28,
2024) Displacement
Vector Scale 1"=
8"/week
AB01
0.05
AB02
0.04
AB04
9.13
AB13
10.91
AB16
7.77
AB17
0.03
AB21
11.79
AB50
6.76
AB51
8.92
AB57
9.13
AB58
11.25
AB59
13.11
AB60
10.26
AB62
7.09
AB64
0.51
AB65
9.15
AB67
7.43
AB68
10.33
AB70
11.77
AB71
4.50
AB73
10.07
AB74
4.75
AB75
11.29
AB76
0.27
CR07
5.50
CR50
0.24
CR53
0.22
CR54
11.44
KC06
3.36
KC07
0.05
KC15
3.18
KC17
2.69
KC20
2.68
KC22
3.87
KC23
2.08
KC24
4.19
KC25
0.24
KC26
3.20
KC27
3.13
KC28
4.58
KC29
5.63
KC30
7.42
KC31
7.24
PB04
10.19
PB08
9.91
PB13
9.06
PB18
11.84
PB26
10.41
PB55
10.86
PB67
11.60
PB69
10.70
PB70
11.01
PB71
12.01
PB72
10.92
PB73
9.82
PB75
11.49
RP01
0.03
RP02
0.00
Elevations Table
Minimum Rate
(inch/week)
2.00
3.00
4.00
5.00
6.00
7.00
8.00
9.00
Maximum Rate
(inch/week)
3.00
4.00
5.00
6.00
7.00
8.00
9.00
10.00
Color
10.00 11.00
11.00 12.00
12.00 13.00
13.00 14.00
COTTON,S HIRES AND ASSOCIATES, INC.
CONSULTING ENGINEERS AND GEOLOGISTS
RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA
SC6163
POS
MP
June 17, 2024
1"=500'
PROJECT NO.
DATE
SCALE
APPROVED BY
GEO/ENG BY
GPS MONITORING DISPLACEMENT RATE
CONTOUR MAP (5/28/24 DATA)
FIGURE NO. 3
Abalone Cove, Portuguese Bend, Klondike Canyon
Hillshade basemap produced from publicly available LiDAR:
"2015 - 2016 LARIAC Lidar DEM: Los Angeles Region, CA"NOTES:
1) October 10, 2023 GPS monitoring data was unavailable for monuments AB21, CR54, CW05, CW06, KC19,
KC20, KC21, KC22, KC23, KC24, PB72, PB73, PB74, PB75, and RP01.
2) January 13, 2024 GPS monitoring data was unavailable for monuments AB20 and FT08.
3) March 8, 2024 GPS monitoring data was unavailable for monuments AB01, AB04, AB05, AB20, AB24, AB53,
AB63, AB66, CR51, CW05, CW06, FT06, FT08, FT09, KC05, KC13, KC14, KC16, KC18, KC19, KC21, PB06,
PB07, PB09, PB12, PB20, PB21, PB27, PB29, PB54, PB59, PB68, PB74, and UB02.
4) April 17, 2024 GPS monitoring data was unavailable for monuments AB01, AB02, AB05, AB20, AB24, AB53,
AB63, AB66, CR51, CW05, CW06, FT06, FT08, FT09, KC05, KC13, KC14, KC16, KC18, KC19, KC21, PB06,
PB07, PB09, PB12, PB20, PB21, PB27, PB29, PB54, PB59, PB68, PB74, and UB02.
B-6A-48
I
I
y
..
-.r
• .J
l
__,,,.
• ■
■
■
■
■
■
■ n
■
■
■
r?.""
I
I
I
(
0
,-.:
--:....., ,,,
---♦ r •• -♦ -r ....
~
• .,.,~ S)
95) " '\0-0 •
I I
J
I
/
~-
/ , z
0 ~ I/ ::J"
J -
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-
---
I (_ --I
___,.i r ----/ /
...,.....
.... -i ----♦ ,
Photos 1 and 2: Burma Road Trail, east of Vanderlip Trail. Left 6/22/24 and right 2/14/24
EXHIBIT F
Trails photos
A-49
Photos 3 and 4: Burma Road Trail, east of Vanderlip. Left 6/22/24 and right 2/14/24
Photos 5 and 6: Burma Road Trail, west of Water Tank Trail. Left 6/3/24 and right 3/21/24
A-50
Photos 7 and 8: Burma Road Trail at the junction with Toyon Trail. Left 6/3/24 and right 2/14/24
Photos 9 and 10: Burma Road Trail, west of Panorama Trail. Left 5/30/24 and right 2/14/24
A-51
Photo 11 and 12: Burma Road Trail, west of Barn Owl Trail. Left 6/2/24 and right 1/12/24
Photo 13: Olmsted Trail, south of Smuggler’s Trail . 6/1/24
A-52
Photo 14: Olmsted Trail, west of Portuguese Bend Loop Trail . 6/1/24
Photos 15: Olmsted Trail, west of Portuguese Point Loop Trail. Left 6/1/24 and right 1/10/24
A-53
EXHIBIT G
Neighborhood Photos
A-54
A-55
A-56
A-57
A-58
ORDINANCE NO. ___-U
AN URGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA,
ESTABLISHING REGULATIONS AND PROCEDURES TO
INSTALL TEMPORARY MEASURES TO PRESERVE
EXISTING STRUCTURES, AND TO AUTHORIZE
TEMPORARY HOUSING ON THE SAME SITE AS AN
EXISTING RESIDENCE, WITHIN THE PORTUGIES BEND
LANDSLIDE COMPLEX
WHEREAS, the City of Rancho Palos Verdes is home to three active Landslide
Complexes commonly known as the Portuguese Bend Landslide, the Abalone Cove
Landslide, and the Klondike Canyon Landslide, also known as the Greater Portuguese
Bend Landslide Complex (Landslide Complex). The landslides have been active since
the 1950s; and,
WHEREAS, the 2022-2023 rainy season brought exceptional amounts of rain to
the region. These rainy seasons dumped about 190% of the average annual rainfall in
the region, with the region experiencing 20.9” of rain. As a result of the increased amount
of rain, all the Landslide Complex have been subject to an alarming increase in land
movement; and,
WHEREAS, the 2023-24 rainy season also brought exceptional amounts of rain to
the region. The recorded rainfall was 23.01". This is 169% of the historical 67 -year aver-
age of 13.63" for this rain gauge; and,
WHEREAS, beginning in 2018, but particularly since May of 2023, the land move-
ment in the Landslide Complex has increased significantly due to the increase in rainfall
in the last two rainy seasons, which caused the water table to rise dramatically and de-
stabilize the landslides. The City has established, via repeated geologic studies, that a
significant factor in the speed of land movement in the Geologic Hazard Abatement Dis-
tricts is the amount of water in the soil; and,
WHEREAS, Chapter 2.44 of the Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal Code (RPVMC)
details the powers and responsibilities of the City during emergency circumstances, which
is defined in Section 2.24.020 as “the actual or threatened existence of conditions of dis-
aster or of extreme peril to the safety of persons and property within this city caused by
such conditions as air pollution, fire, flood, storm, epidemic, riot, or earthquake, or other
conditions, including conditions resulting from war or imminent threat of war, but other
than conditions resulting from a labor controversy which conditions are or are likely to be
beyond the control of the services, personnel, equipment and facilities of this city, requir-
ing the combined forces of other political subdivisions to combat;” and,
WHEREAS, on October 3, 2023, the City Council of the City of Rancho Palos
Verdes adopted Resolution No. 2023 -47, declaring a local state of emergency because
B-1
of the alarming increase of land movement in the Landslide Complex. The state of emer-
gency based on the land movement has been extended as required by law and is still
active; and,
WHEREAS, also on October 3, 2023, the City Council of the City of Rancho Palos
Verdes adopted Interim Urgency Ordinance No. 674U by a 4/5 vote, to establish a 45-
day moratorium on the acceptance or processing of applications, issuance of permits,
and construction of all structures within the Landslide Complex (the “Moratorium”); and,
WHEREAS, the City Council also requested Staff continue to provide updates on
the measures being taken in the City’s efforts to remediate the accelerated land
movement. At subsequent meetings, the City Council received updates on conditions in
the Landslide Complex as well as measures underway by various entities to reduce
landslide movement; and extended the local emergency on multiple occasions, the latest
extension pursuant to Resolution 2024-51; and,
WHEREAS, on November 6, 2023, the California Department of Housing and
Community Development issued a letter of approval (Attachment K of Interim Urgency
Ordinance No. 674U) during the effective period of 45 days from its adoption and its
planned extension for up to 22 months and 15 days, allowing this ordinance to be effective
for a total of 24 months; and,
WHEREAS, on November 14, 2023, City Council conducted a public hearing and
adopted Interim Urgency Ordinance No. 675U, extending the Moratorium by the required
four-fifths vote for an additional 10 months and 15 days, expiring October 2, 2024 ; and,
WHEREAS, the land movement in the Portuguese Bend Club (PBC) currently
ranges between about 11”-13” per week, the greatest rate of movement in the Landslide
Complex. As a result, the utilities (sewer, electric, water, gas) have had to take innovative
and extraordinary measures to provide service to the residents of the PBC. By way of
example, water pipes have been and are being moved to above ground; electric lines are
de-energized and poles are removed or moved, and slack is added to the lines to account
for the land drift; sewer trunk lines are located above groun d; flexible joints have been
added to water and sewer pipes to provide more give as the land moves. The constant
movement of the land presents a unique challenge for the utilities, and even more so for
the residents of the PBC; and,
WHEREAS, on July 29, 2024 at 9:00 a.m., with less than 72 hours’ notice, the
Southern California Gas Company turned off natural gas service to approximately 135
homes in the PBC, stating that providing service is no longer safe due to the land
movement. Until the landslide is stabilized, it is unlikely that natural gas service can be
restored. The following streets are impacted: Cherryhill Lane; Cinnamon Lane; Clovetree
Place; Figtree Road; Fruit Tree Road; Ginger Root Lane; Kumquat Lane; Narcissa Drive;
Palos Verdes Drive; Peppertree Drive; Plumtree Road; E. Pomegranate Road; W.
Pomegranate Road; Roseapple Road; Sweetbay Road; Tangerine Road; Thyme Place;
Vanderlip Drive; and,
B-2
WHEREAS, on July 30, 2024, Southern California Edison issued a notice to the
PBC, Portuguese Bend Beach Club, and Seaview communities that stated, in relevant
part: “The ground movement affecting your neighborhood has created unsafe and
hazardous conditions, which have already impacted SCE’s infrastructure, causing power
poles to lean and power lines to fail. The impact on SCE’s equipment caused by these
hazardous conditions increases the risk of system failure, fire ignition or other public
safety hazards. SCE will continue to serve your community as long as it is safe to do so.
We are working with the City of Rancho Palos Verdes and Los Angeles County officials
to monitor area conditions as they evolve. We recognize the impact the potential of
discontinued service has, and we appreciate your understanding. We will make every
effort to provide timely communications regarding any impact to your service, however,
the dynamic conditions in the area may not allow for advance notification. Because of
this, customers in the area are encouraged to begin planning for the potential suspension
of electric service.” It is possible, therefore, that a deenergizing event will occur in the
PBC in the foreseeable future: and,
WHEREAS, as the land movement continues to accelerate in the Landslide
Complex, it is possible that additional homes in the Landslide Complex may experience
temporary or permanent natural gas or power shut-offs, and the shut-offs may occur with
little to no notice; and,
WHEREAS, on August 6, 2024 City Council adopted Resolution No. 2024 - 52, a
resolution of the City Council declaring the existence of a local emergency within the
geographic boundaries of the Portugues Bend Community Association, a portion of the
Landslide Complex, based on a sudden and severe energy shortage; and
WHEREAS, the acceleration of the land movement is such that the structural
components of some homes in the Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex, including
roofing and foundations, are being negatively impacted; and
WHEREAS, some homes in the Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex may be or
become uninhabitable due to one or more conditions caused by the land movement
including, but not limited to, foundation damage, inadequate egress, severe structural
damage, utility failures or lack of critical utility services, unsafe electrical system, severe
plumbing issues, collapsed or compromised roof, unsafe load-bearing elements, or gas
leaks, requiring residents to find alternative housing.
WHEREAS, on July 2, 2024 City Council directed Staff to explore options for
interim housing solutions within the Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex.
WHEREAS, pursuant to Government Code § 36937, subdivision (b), any
ordinance for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, containing
a declaration of the facts constituting the urgency, that is passed by a four-fifths vote of
the City Council, shall take effect immediately upon its adoption; and
B-3
-
WHEREAS, the City Council seeks and intends to protect the health, safety, and
welfare of the residents of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes by adopting the
implementation actions to preserve existing residential structures within the landslide
complex and consider potential options for temporary housing during the local emergency
within the geographic boundaries of the Landslide Complex.
NOW THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes does
hereby ordain as follows:
Section 1. Recitals. The City Council hereby determines that the above recitals
are true and correct and incorporates the same as the findings of the City Council.
Section 2. Urgency Findings. Homes in the Landslide Complex are being
stressed and damaged by the continued land movement. Based on the rate of land
movement, property owners are unable to repair damage done to their properties through
the standard process and with the standard timelines. Property owners need temporary
solutions to stabilize and level their houses through this emergency and must be able to
move forward with this work as soon as possible.
Adopting the urgency ordinance allows these alternative foundation and housing
solutions to be effective immediately, thereby addressing public peace, health, and safety.
Section 3. California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The City Council finds
that this Urgency Ordinance is proposed to allow the City to continue to address and
mitigate an imminent threat to public health and safety and therefore is exempt from
CEQA pursuant to Public Resources Code, Section 21080(b)(4) and CEQA Guidelines,
Section 15269.
Section 4. In accordance with Interim Urgency Ordinance 675U Exception A. to
the Moratorium, the following provisions are added to the Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal
Code to include standards and procedures for temporary foundation solutions and other
structural work to protect the integrity of the home, as included as Attachment A.
Section 5. In accordance with Interim Urgency Ordinance 675U Exception C. to
the Moratorium, the following provisions are added to the Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal
Code to include standards and procedures for temporary housing structures to be
installed on the same property as the home that has been deemed uninhabitable, as
included as Attachment B.
Section 6. Sunset Provision. This Ordinance will expire by operation of law on
December 31, 2026, unless extended by the City Council by a 4/5 vote.
Section 7. Severability. If any provision(s) of this Ordinance or the application
thereof to any person or circumstances is held invalid or unconstitutional by any court of
competent jurisdiction, such invalidity or unconstitutionality shall not affect any other
provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this ordinance are declared to
B-4
be severable. The City Council hereby declares that they would have adopted this
ordinance and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, part or portion thereof,
irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, clauses, phrase s,
parts or portions thereof be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
Section 8. Posting. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this
Ordinance by the City Council and shall cause this ordinance to be published or posted
in accordance with Government Code section 36933 as required by law.
Section 9. Effective Date. Pursuant to Government Code section 36937, this
Urgency Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon approval of the same by a four
fifths (4/5) affirmative vote of the City Council.
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED by a ________ vote of the entire City
Council this 3rd day of September, 2024.
John Cruikshank, Mayor
Attest:
Teresa Takaoka, City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES )ss
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES )
I, Teresa Takaoka, City Clerk of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, do hereby certify that
the above Urgency Ordinance No. ___U, was duly adopted by the City Council of said
City at a regular meeting thereof held on September 3, 2024.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Teresa Takaoka, City Clerk
B-5
ATTACHMENT A
Interim Temporary Foundational Support Systems
Cargo containers, steel beam supports, and other temporary foundational support
measures may be utilized within the Landslide Complex until December 31, 2026, unless
extended by the City Council. All temporary measures must be approved by the City’s
Building Official to ensure safety.
Cargo containers as temporary foundational support system.
One or more cargo containers may be used as a specialized foundation for a structure
located in the areas identified as the Landslide Complex per the local emergency
declaration as initially adopted on October 2, 2023 via Resolution No. 2023 -47 and
extended on multiple occasions at subsequent meetings, but only if such use has been
approved by the building official, pursuant to Section 15.04.060 of the Rancho Palos
Verdes Municipal Code. The following regulations shall apply to all cargo containers
utilized as a specialized foundation for a structure during the local emergency declaration ,
in addition to the regulations for all temporary foundational support systems :
A. Cargo containers shall not be used for human habitation.
B. Cargo containers shall not have any factory-built or field-applied plumbing, heat-
ing, or air conditioning systems.
C. Cargo containers shall not be stacked on top of each other or on any structure.
D. Refuse and/or debris shall not be stored in, against, on, or under the cargo con-
tainer.
E. The cargo containers shall be constructed of metal, except for a wood floor within
the metal shell. Structural plans and calculations are not required.
F. The keeping of animals in cargo containers is not permitted at any time.
G. Each cargo container permitted pursuant to this section shall be painted an earth -
tone color that is approved by the Director of Community Development. No cargo
container may contain any signs, names, logos, or other markings painted on, or
otherwise attached to, the exterior of the container, with the exception of street
numbers and address for the property.
H. Any permitted cargo container shall not exceed a height of eight feet and six
inches, a width of eight feet, and a length of 40 feet.
Alternative temporary foundational support system
Steel beam supports and other temporary foundational support measures may be utilized.
Regulations for all temporary foundational support systems
The following regulations shall apply to all temporary foundational support systems for a
structure, inclusive of cargo containers, during the local emergency declaration:
1. Except for temporary construction storage or temporary emergency storage, a
scaled site plan drawn to show the location of all existing buildings, parking spaces,
B-6
and the size and location of the proposed temporary foundational support system
be submitted. Additionally, the site plan shall show all slope locations and steep-
ness percentages on the lot, as well as all slopes adjacent to the subject site.
2. Temporary foundational support systems shall not block, obstruct, or reduce in any
manner any required exits, windows, vent shafts, parking spaces, and/or access
driveways or any area designated or used for emergency access. If these areas
are blocked or obstructed, the structure will be deemed as uninhabitable until such
time that the obstruction is removed.
3. Temporary foundational support systems shall not be placed on extreme slopes
(i.e. 35 percent steepness or greater).
4. If the structure is to remain habitable with a temporary foundation support system,
the structure must have adequate and safe ingress/egress, fire department ac-
cess, and utility systems including water, sewer, power, heat, and hot water, as
determined acceptable by the City’s Building Official.
5. No grading will be allowed beyond 20 cubic yards for the installation of a temporary
foundation support system.
6. An application for a temporary foundation support system must be completed on
the form approved by the Community Development Department, including provid-
ing the City with an executed indemnity and hold harmless agreement in a form
approved by the City Attorney.
7. Any temporary foundation support system approved in accordance with this ur-
gency ordinance is allowed temporarily and a permit for a permanent foundation
system must be submitted for approval in compliance with the Rancho Palos
Verdes Municipal Code no later than December 31, 2026.
B-7
ATTACHMENT B
Interim Housing and Storage
Cargo containers as temporary emergency storage
Until the expiration of the ordinance , in the event that a structure in any zoning district
becomes uninhabitable due to an involuntary act, which is not the fault of the property
owner or lessee, one or more cargo containers may be used for temporary storage of
household materials until said structure is repaired or reconstructed, and must be
removed or replaced by a permanent permitted structure no later than December 31,
2026.
The following development standards shall apply to all cargo containers utilized for
temporary emergency storage hereunder:
A. Cargo containers shall not be used for human habitation.
B. Cargo containers shall not have any factory-built or field applied plumbing, heating,
or air conditioning systems.
C. Cargo containers shall not be stacked on top of each other or on any structure.
D. Cargo containers utilized as temporary emergency storage shall be set back a
minimum five feet from any property line and a minimum ten feet from any struc-
ture.
E. Cargo containers shall not block, obstruct, or reduce in any manner any required
exits, windows, vent shafts, parking spaces, and/or access driveways or any area
designated or used for emergency access.
F. Refuse and/or debris shall not be stored in, against, on, or under the cargo con-
tainer.
G. The cargo containers shall be constructed of metal, except for a wood floor within
the metal shell. Structural plans and calculations are not required.
H. The keeping of animals in cargo containers is not permitted at any time.
I. Cargo containers shall not be placed on extreme slopes (i.e., 35 percent steepness
or greater).
J. Each cargo container permitted pursuant to this section shall be painted an earth -
tone color that is approved by the director of planning, building, and code enforce-
ment. No cargo container may contain any names, logos, or other markings
painted on, or otherwise attached to, the exterior of the container.
K. Any permitted cargo container shall not exceed a height of eight feet and six
inches, a width of eight feet, and a length of 40 feet.
Temporary Housing Structures
Temporary housing structures are defined as mobile homes, trailers, recreational
vehicles, or other structures which are self-contained units that include sanitary facilities
and the means to properly dispose of waste , and facilities for normal daily routines
including cooking and sleeping. Temporary housing structures DO NOT include any
B-8
structure placed upon a permanent foundation, nor do they include tents, yurts, or similar
fabric or textile installations. Temporary Housing Units may be permitted pursuant to a
Temporary Housing Permit
The following development standards shall apply to all temporary housing structures
hereunder:
1. A scaled site plan drawn to show the location of all existing buildings, parking
spaces, and the size and location of the proposed temporary housing structure
shall be submitted. Additionally, the site plan shall show all slopes on the lot , as
well as all slopes adjacent to the subject site, including the steepness of marked
each slope.
2. No more than two (2) temporary housing structures, which together total no more
than 1,200 square feet will be permitted per existing dwelling unit that is temporarily
uninhabitable on a lot/parcel.
3. No grading will be allowed beyond 20 cubic yards for the installation of temporary
housing structures.
4. Temporary housing structures shall not be placed on extreme slopes (i.e., 35 per-
cent steepness or greater).
5. The temporary housing structure must not exceed 16 feet in height.
6. The temporary housing structure must have utility services as follows:
a. Sewage disposal connection to the existing sewer system or a septic hold-
ing tank as approved by the Building and Safety Division.
b. Electrical service and/or solar power supply as approved by the Building
and Safety Division.
c. Water service supplied by the California Water Service or other adequate
water supply as approved by the Building Division.
d. Solar, natural gas, or propane if serving as a power supply to the temporary
housing structure, as approved by the Building and Safety Division.
7. If a temporary housing structures blocks, obstructs, or reduces in any manner any
required exits, windows, vent shafts, and/or access driveways or any area desig-
nated or used for emergency access for the permanent structure, the permanent
structure will be deemed as uninhabitable until such time that the obstruction is
removed.
8. An application for a temporary housing structure must be completed on the form
approved by the Community Development Department.
9. Additional conditions of approval shall provide that owners must:
a. Provide the City with written authorization from the property owner/tenant
allowing the City to terminate all utilities to the temporary structure upon
expiration of the period for which the temporary housing structure is permit-
ted to remain on the property.
b. Obtain verification from the City that all temporary housing structures have
been removed from the property within 90 days of December 31, 2026. An
extension may be applied for within that 90 day period if the temporary
housing structure will be used during an active building permit timeframe to
restabilize the original structure. Failure to obtain this verification or an au-
thorized extension shall result in a fine of $100 per day until the verification
B-9
is obtained.
c. Provide the City with an executed indemnity and hold harmless agreement
in a form approved by the City Attorney.
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STATE OF CALIFORNIA - BUSINESS, CONSUMER SERVICES AND HOUSING AGENCY GAVIN NEWSOM, Governor
DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
DIVISION OF HOUSING POLICY DEVELOPMENT
2020 W. El Camino Avenue, Suite 500
Sacramento, CA 95833
(916) 263-2911 / FAX (916) 263-7453
www.hcd.ca.gov
November 6, 2023
Brandy Forbes, Director
Community Development Department
City of Rancho Palos Verdes
30940 Hawthorne Blvd.
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Dear Brandy Forbes:
RE: Approval of Urgency Ordinance – Moratorium on Construction within the
Greater Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex
The purpose of this letter is to provide a determination to the City of Rancho Palos
Verdes (City) regarding the request to approve the adoption of Interim Urgency
Ordinance No. 674U (Ordinance), prohibiting any construction within the geographic
boundaries of the Greater Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex (Landslide Complex).
The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) is
statutorily required to provide determination regarding proposed moratoria (Gov. Code,
§66300, subd. (b)(1)(B)(ii)). HCD received a request for approval for the proposed
Ordinance, met with the City staff, and reviewed relevant materials (e.g., staff letter,
resolution declaring a local emergency, Interim Ordinance No. 674U, land movement
monitoring surveys, etc.). Upon review of the written materials and discussion with the
local jurisdiction, HCD has determined that the current conditions of the Landslide
Complex pose an imminent threat to the health and safety of persons residing in the
area subject to the Ordinance.
Background
Since the 1950s to 1970s, three large landslides have been active in the City, including
Portuguese Bend Landslide (PBL), Abalone Cove Landslide (ACL), and the Klondike
Canyon Landslide (KCL). The Greater Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex or
Landslide Complex encompasses these three active landslides. Beginning in May of
2023, land movement has increased in the PBL and KCL complexes. Based on a
surveying report of PBL in October 2022 and revised assessment in June 2023,
“movement velocities have accelerated over the average velocity for the previous four
years, which saw an acceleration over the previous 15-20 years”.1 The accelerating
1 McGee Surveying Consulting, Conditions Assessment Report, dated October 19, 2022
and revised June 6, 2023, Page 2.
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land movement has destroyed homes, impacted the Portuguese Bend Reserve,
increased water main breaks, and caused roadway and utility line distress.
The City established Landslide Moratorium Area in 1978, imposing development
restrictions in response to the Landslide Complex. Since then, the City has adopted a
series of Interim Urgency Ordinances (Nos. 108U, 139U, 427U, 459U, 526, etc.) to
temporarily halt permit processing and construction, and make amendments to enforce
appropriate landslide mitigations measures in designated areas (Rancho Palos Verdes
Municipal Code sections 15.20.040 and 15.20.050).
The proposed Ordinance No. 674U is to encompass the entire Portuguese Bend
Landslide Complex (including ACL and KCL). The Ordinance would address an
imminent threat to public health and safety and prevent the exacerbation of existing
unstable geologic conditions caused by activities related to new construction within the
Landslide Complex. During the effective period of this Ordinance, the City will not
accept or consider any permit applications, nor issue any permits for construction on
any property within the Landslide Complex. This Ordinance also applies to any pending
applications and to any permits or entitlements that have issued but upon which
construction has not commenced.
The City has confirmed that no sites included in its housing element site inventory are
within the Landslide Complex. As a result, no such sites are subject to the proposed
Ordinance. Pursuant to Government Code section 65858, the City seeks to adopt and
enforce the proposed Ordinance that will begin with a 45-day period, following its date
of adoption, and if necessary extended for up to 22 months and 15 days.
The City is in the process of implementing a large-scale remediation project to stabilize
the Landslide Complex. The project will proceed in three phases: (1) repairing existing
fractures, (2) improving surface drainage of stormwater, and (3) installing a network of
hydraugers. Staff anticipates that 90 percent of the planning and Environmental Impact
Report certification will be complete by September 2024, and final engineering and
permitting will be complete by September 2025.
Local Moratorium Regulations Under the Housing Crisis Act (HCA)
Pursuant to Government Code section 66300, subdivision (b)(1)(B)(ii), a city cannot
enforce a moratorium that would limit housing development until it has submitted the
ordinance to and received approval from HCD. Conditions for imposing a moratorium,
or similar restrictions on housing development, must demonstrate “an imminent threat
to the health and safety of persons residing in, or within the immediate vicinity of, the
area subject to the moratorium” (Gov. Code, § 66300, subd. (b)(1)(B)(i)).
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HCD acknowledges the severity of the Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex’s condition
and the potential harm to public health and safety, and the environment, and anticipates
that the Ordinance will need to be extended beyond the 45-day period, pursuant to
Government Code section 65858. HCD hereby approves the adoption and enforcement
of Interim Urgency Ordinance No. 674U during the effective period of 45 days from its
adoption and its planned extension for up to 22 months and 15 days by the City of
Rancho Palos Verdes.
Conclusion
In summary, HCD approves the adoption and enforcement of the Ordinance and hopes
for a speedy resolution of this matter.
If you have any questions regarding the content of this letter or would like additional
technical assistance, please contact Mehrsa Imani, of our staff, at
mehrsa.imani@hcd.ca.gov.
Sincerely,
Shannan West
Housing Accountability Unit Chief
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MEMORANDUM
TO: BRANDY FORBES, AICP, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT
FROM: AMY SEERATY, SENIOR PLANNER
C DATE: NOVEMBER 7, 2023
SUBJECT: 10-DAY REPORT ON THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES’
MORATORIUM ON THE ACCEPTANCE OR PROCESSING OF
APPLICATIONS, ISSUANCE OF PERMITS, AND
CONSTRUCTION OF ALL STRUCTURES WITHIN THE
PORTUGUESE BEND LANDSLIDE COMPLEX AS REQUIRED BY
GOVERNMENT CODE §65858(d).
BACKGROUND
On October 3, 2023, pursuant to Government Code §§ 65858 and 36937, the City Council
adopted Urgency Ordinance No. 674U, which imposed a temporary 45-day moratorium
on the acceptance or processing of applications, issuance of permits, and construction of
all structures within the Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex, in order to protect the
health and safety of the residents of the Landslide Complex, the City and the Palos
Verdes Peninsula.
Government Code § 65858 allows an initial 45-day moratorium to be extended for up to
10 months and 15 days after a duly noticed public hearing is held. As required by
Government Code § 65858(d), ten days prior to the expiration of the interim ordinance,
the City must issue a written describing the measures taken since enacting the interim
urgency ordinance, which are intended to alleviate the conditions which necessitated the
initial adoption of the ordinance.
MEASURES TAKEN TO ALLEVIATE THE CONDITIONS THAT LED TO THE
ADOPTION OF THE URGENCY ORDINANCE
1.In September 2023, the City formed a “Rancho Palos Verdes Landslide Complex
Working Group” to evaluate and address community concerns and to discuss
solutions. The members of this working group include but are not limited to, various
agencies including the affected Homeowners Associations, the City of Rancho
Palos Verdes, the City of Rolling Hills, the Klondike Canyon Landslide Abatement
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District (KCLAD), the Abalone Cove Landslide Abatement District (ACLAD),
Southern California Edison, Los Angeles County Public Works, Los Angeles
County Sanitation District, California Water Service (Cal Water), and SoCalGas.
2.Cal Water has continued and/or initiated various activities in recent weeks in
attempts to better monitor water leaks and/or prevent additional water intrusion
into the soil, as described below.
a.Cal Water has recently installed 25 additional leak detection sensors within
the Portuguese Bend Club Association community, for a total of 65. They
have also installed additional water pressure monitors, for a total of six.
b.A potential water pipe leak reporting hotline is now active: (855) RPV-LEAK.
This will allow better and faster communication between affected residents
and Cal Water.
c.Cal Water is working on water line repairs and the installation of
approximately 800 feet of 8-inch flexible pipe, to be installed mostly above-
ground along Dauntless Drive, Exultant Drive, and Admirable Drive.
d.Cal Water is working with the City to obtain permits to install an additional
200 feet of flexible above-ground pipe along Admirable Drive.
3.The City is providing assistance to the Klondike Canyon Landslide Abatement
District (KCLAD) and the Abalone Cove Landslide Abatement District (ACLAD) on
various projects, including installation of additional dewatering wells, assessment
of existing water drainage pipes and culverts, etc.
4.The City has installed 12 new monitoring points within the landslide and is in the
process of updating the map of these points.
5.City Staff is continuing to work on an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the
ongoing Landslide Remediation Project.
6.The City has notified applicants of pending or potential applications regarding the
enacted moratorium on properties within the greater Portuguese Bend Landslide
Complex boundaries. Specifically, City Staff has sent letters informing these
applicants that the City has temporarily suspended processing applications for
development projects that are not already under construction and will not accept
new applications during the moratorium period, except for limited exceptions for
the following:
A.Construction necessary for repair or maintenance of existing structures,
roadways, and any infrastructure such as water lines, sewer lines, electrical
or traffic installations, etc.
B.Construction necessary for the implementation, establishment, repair, or
maintenance of any landslide mitigation measures.
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C.Construction necessary for the immediate preservation of the public health
and safety.
D.Construction that the City Manager deems necessary and consistent with
the purposes of this interim urgency ordinance. Any such exception shall
require written findings by the City Manager, and must be ratified by the City
Council at the regular meeting following the City Manager's determination.
7.The City’s Consulting Geologists at Cotton, Shires and Associates, Inc. are
working on an updated map that will show the boundaries of the various landslide
areas and the geologic hazard abatement districts.
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