CC SR 20241001 01 - Landslide Emergency Extension
CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: 10/01/2024
AGENDA REPORT AGENDA HEADING: Regular Business
AGENDA TITLE:
Consideration and possible action on the Greater Portuguese Bend-Ancient Altamira
Landslide Complex.
RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:
(1) Receive and file an update on current conditions, including the City Geologist’s
report, in the Greater Portuguese Bend-Ancient Altamira Landslide Complex;
(2) Review options and provide direction on emergency protective and stabilization
measures for the Greater Portuguese Bend-Ancient Altamira Landslide Complex;
(3) Receive and file a financial report on City expenditures and estimated costs for
emergency protective and stabilization measures in response to the acceleration
of the Greater Portuguese Bend-Ancient Altamira Landslide Complex since
October 2022;
(4) Accept and approve an appropriation of $5 million pursuant to the Social Program
Agreement providing financial assistance related to the Greater Portuguese Bend-
Ancient Altamira Landslide Complex from Fourth District Supervisor Janice Hahn
of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors;
(5) Provide direction on the proposed allocation of the $5 million pursuant to the Social
Program Agreement between Los Angeles County and the City:
a. Provide $10,000 in individual financial assistance to property owners of
residences impacted by the landslide in the Portuguese Bend Community
Association including Vanderlip Drive, Seaview, and Portuguese Bend
Beach Club as outlined within the geographic boundaries identified in the
City Council proclaimed Local Emergency Declaration; and,
b. Fund, based on the remaining balance, City-initiated emergency protective
and stabilization measures consisting of, but not limited to, public roads,
City-owned sewer system in the Portuguese Bend Community Association,
dewatering wells, as well as for costs associated with actions to address
public safety, health, and transportation conditions created by the
Landslide;
(6) Review and provide input to two draft questionnaires to be sent to households
affected by the Greater Portuguese Bend-Ancient Altamira Landslide Complex and
indefinite utility shutoffs, and if deemed acceptable, authorize Staff to issue the
final questionnaires;
(7) Adopt Resolution No. 2024-__, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA, CONTINUING THE LOCAL
EMERGENCY DECLARATION AS ESTABLISHED BY RESOLUTION NO. 2023 -
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47 ADOPTED ON OCTOBER 3, 2023 FOR AN ADDITIONAL 60 DAY PERIOD;
and
(8) Adopt Resolution No. 2024-__, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA, TO EXTEND THE STATE
OF LOCAL EMERGENCY WITHIN THE GEOGRAPHIC BOUNDARIES OF THE
PORTUGUESE BEND COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, PORTUGUESE BEND
BEACH CLUB, AND SEAVIEW NEIGHBORHOOD, BASED ON SUDDEN
ENERGY SHORTAGES, PLANNED DEENERGIZING EVENTS, AND INTERNET
SERVICE SHUT OFFS, AS ESTABLISHED BY RESOLUTIONS NOS. 2024-52
AND 2024-57, FOR AN ADDITIONAL 60 DAYS.
FISCAL IMPACT: The Portuguese Bend landslide emergency response is projected to
reach approximately $35.3 million (includes $6.1 million unfunded costs incurred and
projected for emergency work) from October 2022 through the fiscal year ending June
30, 2025. The City Council is also being asked tonight to consider spending up to $20
million for emergency stabilization measures, which could bring the potential overall total
of landslide expenditures to $55.3 million.
If the City Council selects one or a combination of the proposed options for the emergency
stabilization measures, the additional appropriation required in FY 2024-25 ranges
between a minimum of $6.1 million and up to $26.1 million. The available funding sources
include $5 million from the CIP Fund Emergency Reserve, up to $19 million from the
General Fund’s Excess Reserve, $0.5 million from ARPA Fund by reallocating the budget
for the Hesse Park Technology Improvement Project, and up to $5 million grant from the
Fourth District Supervisor Janice Hahn of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.
Additionally, the City has applied for approximately $39.4 million in public assistance and
$22 million in individual assistance through the disaster recovery program from FEMA
and CalOES, related to the 2024 Winter Storm Event (January 31 to February 9, 2024)
and Energy Shutoff. These recovery funds are still in the application stage and are not
guaranteed. In fact, the City has been informed by FEMA and CalOES that it is unlikely
to be funded because pre-existing landslides are not eligible for disaster recovery
pursuant to the Stafford Act. Nevertheless, the City continues to pursue reimbursement.
Currently, Staff anticipates that only $1.5 million in public assistance (for the City only)
may be eligible. If approved, the reimbursement process may take between one to three
years before the City receives the funds. For the $22 million individual assistance that the
City submitted on behalf of the affected residents, the City has been notified by CalOES
and FEMA that these funds are also not available because individual assistance was not
deployed in response to the Winter Storm Event or Energy Shutoffs .
The City’s efforts in securing funding assistance from federal, state, and county levels of
government are ongoing and Staff will continue to keep the City Council informed on any
updates. VR
Amount Budgeted: $17,900,000
Additional Appropriation: $5,000,000 (LA County Grant)
Remaining additional appropriations are based on the
City Council’s options ranging between $6.1 million and $26.1
million
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Account Number(s): $17,900,0000 (Various Funds and Accounts)
(see Table 2 of the staff report for funding sources)
(CIP Fund, General Fund, Measure R, Prop C) VR
ORIGINATED BY: Ramzi Awwad, Director of Public Works
Vina Ramos, Director of Finance VR
Brandy Forbes, Director of Community Development
Katie Lozano, Open Space Manager
REVIEWED BY: Catherine Jun, Deputy City Manager
Elena Gerli, City Attorney
APPROVED BY: Ara Mihranian, AICP, City Manager
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
A. Resolution No. 2024-___ Continuing Local Emergency (Page A-1)
B. Resolution No. 2024-___ Continuing Local De-energization Emergency
(Page B-1)
C. Two Draft Voluntary Questionnaires for Residents Affected by the Land
Movement and Energy Shutoffs (Page C-1)
D. Updated Landslide Map (Page D-1) forthcoming as late correspondence
E. Effect of Deep Dewatering Wells on Land Movement (Page E-1)
forthcoming as late correspondence
F. Landslide Monitoring Survey Report through September 20, 2024 (Page F-
1)
G. $5 Million Social Program Agreement between the City of Rancho Palos
Verdes and Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, Fourth District (page
G-1).
BACKGROUND:
On October 3, 2023, the City Council conducted a discussion regarding the conditions of
the Greater Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex, sometimes called the Ancient Altamira
Landslide Complex (Landslide Complex). 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 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”).
The City Council also requested Staff return in a few weeks with an update on immediate
measures being taken to address 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 . In
response, the City Council extended the local emergency on multiple occasions.
On March 19, 2024, the City Council approved moving forward with emergency work in
the Portuguese Bend Landslide (PBL) consisting of installing two emergency hydrauger
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systems with five drain arrays each and associated work. On May 7, 2024, the City
Council awarded contracts for construction of the emergency hydraugers and associated
professional services such as engineering and construction management.
The emergency hydraugers were preceded by vertical test boreholes to obtain current
underground condition data and confirm models developed from historical studies. This
was done to avoid expending significant funds on hydraugers only for them to prove
ineffective because they do not target the correct depth or do not extract water due to
particular soil conditions.
Early in the test borehole process, the City’s geological peer review consultant Cotton,
Shires and Associates, Inc. (CSA) suspected the landslide was moving on a deeper slip
plane than the shallower, PBL slip plane, based on Global Positioning System (GPS)
survey data and field mapping of fissures. Therefore, the vertical test borehole target
depths were increased, and additional instrumentation was added.
The time spent on the peer review process and on installing the deeper vertical test
boreholes has ultimately proven essential to a better understanding of the underground
conditions, because they revealed a deeper slip surface (Altamira slip surface)
corresponding to a portion of the mapped Ancient Altamira Landslide Complex -Greater
Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex, which is moving at a much faster rate than the
shallow PBL slip surface. Based on these results, it is also likely that the Klondike Canyon
Landslide (KCL) and Abalone Cove Landslide (ACL) are being affected by the deep slip
surface.
Additionally, the test boreholes confirmed that artesian water pressure is present in the
lower reaches of the PBL, and confined water is present within the PBL slide surface and
also within and below the Altamira slide surface and the PBL slide surface. This could
create artesian pressure on the PBL and Altamira slide surface.
The confirmed presence of a deep slip surface where the greatest movement is occurring
represented a significant change in conditions and required changing the emergency
stabilization strategy. The PBL can no longer be addressed independently of the ACL and
KCL as all three slides appear to be moving on the deep slide surface and should
therefore be addressed with a unified and coordinated approach. Management of the
shallow slide surfaces for each of the landslides remains necessary; however, it should
be in the context of the approach to addressing the deep slide surface. This means that
hydraugers may still be a feasible component of the ultimate mitigation strategy , but the
deep slip surface must be addressed first.
The above emergency hydraugers update was provided to the City Council on August 20,
2024, and the City Council directed Staff to consider new alternatives for managing the
Landslide Complex. Tonight, the City Council is being asked, among other things, to
provide direction on the next steps in management of the Landslide Complex.
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DISCUSSION:
1. Current Landslide Conditions
a. City Geologist Update
The Landslide Complex encompasses four historically active landslide areas in the City:
the PBL, the ACL, the KCL, and the Beach Club Landslide (BCL). However, it also
includes areas outside of the City’s historical boundaries of those known landslides,
predominantly uphill from the PBL and ACL, within the Landslide Complex as mapped by
various agencies (i.e., U.S. Geological Survey and California Geological Survey) and
other researchers.
Since the August 20, 2024 update to the City Council, the City Geologist, Mike Phipps of
CSA 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 the weekly Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex Working
Group meetings; and conducted site-visits to the boreholes being installed in advance of
the emergency stabilization measures.
The City Geologist is reporting that rainfall and the resulting runoff and infiltration into the
Landslide Complex continues to adversely affect the landslide area, following a
significantly wetter than average rainy season in 2022-23 and 2023-24; which were
approximately 193% and 170% of the season average over the past 67 years of the
Rolling Hills Fire Station rain gauge, respectively. Only 0.07 inches of rain has fallen over
the past 5 months; therefore, the adverse effects of the season’s rainfall are now
manifested as increased groundwater pressures within and beneath the landslide.
Recent GPS survey data published by McGee Surveying Consulting for the period August
1, 2024 to September 4, 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 13%, with a range of 1%
acceleration to 27% deceleration. Average movement velocity across the entire
Landslide Complex was 8 inches per week as of September 4, 2024.
• The ACL (within historical boundaries) decelerated 8% and had indicated land
movement of between 2.7 to 4.5 feet over the 34 days.
• The greater ACL (within the Greater Landslide Complex boundaries) decelerated
approximately 8% and had actual land movement of between 2.5 to 4.75 feet over
the 34 days.
• The PBL decelerated approximately 14.4% and had indicated land movement of
between approximately 3.25 to 4.6 feet over the past 34 days.
• The KCL decelerated about 15% and had indicated land movement of between
0.5 to 3.1 feet over the past month.
• New points established on the beach at Portuguese Bend Beach Club (PBBC) in
April have risen nearly 6 feet vertically since they were established.
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• The Burma Road switchback points moved about 2.5 to 3.0 inches in the
southwest direction over the 34 days and are exhibiting slightly accelerating creep
movement.
• Perimeter points that have been historically stable are not moving, indicating that
the areas outside the mapped landslide 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. No ground
movement has been detected with these points.
Recent land movement rates (velocities) in the Landslide Complex remain approximately
6 to 10 inches per week in the ACL, 8 to 11 inches per week in the PBL, and 2 to 7 inches
per week in the KCL. Attachment D presents the GPS monitoring data graphically. Figure
1 of Attachment D presents scaled, incremental displacements and movement vectors
since May 28, 2024. Figure 2 of Attachment D presents scaled displacement rates (i.e.,
movement velocities) and vectors, and a contour map (aka “heat map”) of displacement
rates for the current August 1 through September 4, 2024 monitoring period. Figure 3 of
Attachment D depicts the change in acceleration or deceleration of the movement as a
contour map (aka “heat map”). The greener areas indicate areas of deceleration and the
redder areas indicate areas of acceleration of the surface survey monuments. The entire
map area is now green, indicating that the entire Landslide Complex is decelerating. The
largest decelerations are noted to be in the lower portion of the PBL and middle portion
of the KCL. The data continue to show that the middle of the overall Landslide Complex
is moving the fastest, at up to about 11 inches per week.
The significant and unprecedented change in movement behavior from historical
movements of the PBL and ACL continues. The entire active Landslide Complex (area of
major land movement now evident at the ground surface) continues to represent an
expansion of the combined historical boundaries of the ACL/PBL/KCL of about 380 acres
to an estimated 700 acres in size within the Landslide Complex. In addition, creep
movement of about 0.55 inches per week is occurring directly above the area of major
land movement in the area of the Burma Road switchbacks, generally between Kelvin
Canyon and Portuguese Canyon. This comprises an area of approximately 73 acres.
Creep movement up to 0.70 inches per week has also been reported in Rolling Hills,
affecting multiple properties on Cinchring Road and Quail Ridge Road . This new land
movement is occurring in an area predominantly underlain by previously mapped ancient
landslide deposits. Based on review of GPS monitoring data shared by Rolling Hills and
recent field mapping, the upper limit of the new movement in Rolling Hills appears to cross
upper Altamira Canyon and may be connected to the creep movement in the area of the
upper Burma Road switchbacks. The City Geologist is continuing to evaluate this area,
including its possible connection to the major land movement that has been occurring
downslope.
Landslide movement within the Landslide Complex 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 movement of the landslide, the ground
movement features have continued to enlarge, expand, widen, or grow depending on the
type of feature and location.
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The eastern landslide boundary of the KCL continues to manifest on Admirable Drive and
Exultant Drive; however, the boundaries remain consistent with historical mapping of the
KCL and the location of a pre-development infilled drainage course that is believed to
define the easterly limit of prehistoric landsliding (new data points have been installed to
affirm this statement).
Movement along the westerly boundary of the active Landslide Complex in the ACL area
through the Wayfarer’s Chapel property appears to be daylighting through the slope
between Wayfarer’s Chapel and the westbound lanes of Palos Verdes Drive South.
Solutions to protect roadway from sloughing landslide debris are continuing to be
evaluated by the City Geologist.
The PBBC area continues to experience major deformation along Seawall Road and
bulging/uplift on the order of nearly 6 feet across the beach on an east-west trend. This
deformation continues offshore into the PBL area based on continuing emergence of land
above sea level 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 up to approximately 450 feet
south of the former foreshore slope of the beach. The oceanward limit of this uplift is
believed to represent the toe of the deeper slip plane (i.e., Altamira Landslide).
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, 8-11 inches per week across the
PBL, and 6-8 inches per week across the ACL.
In summary, the average movement velocity for the Altamira Landslide Complex has now
decelerated 13%; however, the identified areas of landslide movement are now moving
approximately 80 times faster than in October 2022. 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.
The City Geologist will be attending the October 1 meeting to provide the City Council
and public with an updated report since the August 20 meeting.
b. Current Palos Verdes Nature Preserve Trail Conditions and Beach Closures
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. Many of these areas continue to see
substantial landslide-related damage including fissures, rockslides, sink holes, unstable
trails, and large-scale erosion. Within the Portuguese Bend Reserve, land movement has
obliterated most of Burma Road Trail, which is no longer accessible by vehicle or safely
passable by the public. Numerous other damaged trails within Portuguese Bend Reserve
continue to experience increased damage and elevation changes and further widening of
fissures.
Since the last landslide update, the City has closed nearly all trails within the Abalone
Cove Reserve, Sacred Cove, and Abalone Cove Beaches due to unsustainable unstable
trails and changing conditions on the beach. A significant amount of new damage, in the
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form of a 20-30 foot escarpment, has also been observed on the closed segment of Pony
Trail at the Ford Trail intersection in the Filiorum Reserve.
Out of 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 of passive recreation trails. The City Manager has also closed Abalone Cove
and Sacred Cove Beaches in coordination with the City Geologist, Los Angeles County
Lifeguards, and the California Coastal Commission. Staff continue to monitor these and
other areas, and extensive repairs will likely be needed before these trails can be
reopened for public use after the area has been stabilized.
c. Natural Gas Utility
On July 29, 2024, Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas) shut off natural gas to
the PBCA; stating that engineers determined the system could no longer be safely
operated due to a confluence of issues such as excessive breaks, lines suspended in the
air, and swing joints in tension.
On August 30 and September 6, 2024, SoCalGas shut off natural gas to the part of the
Seaview neighborhood affected by land movement for the same reasons noted above.
On August 2, 2024, SoCalGas began installing isolation valves to create multiple shut-off
points, so that if service needs to be shut off for a short-term repair or for long-term
reasons, the number of homes impacted would be significantly reduced. The installation
is now complete, separating homes west of Schooner Drive from those east of Schooner
Drive, and separating the gas lines west of Schooner on a street-by-street basis.
On September 6, 2024, SoCalGas shut off natural gas to the PBBC community for the
same reasons noted above. SoCalGas has stated that re-routing gas lines supplying the
neighborhoods experiencing shutoffs would not resolve the problems with the system
within the neighborhood.
d. Electricity
On August 31, 2024, Southern California Edison (SCE) notified 193 metered accounts
(which equates to approximately 140 households and 53 business or city accounts) in the
PBCA that power will be turned off to their property on September 1, 2024 for an indefinite
period of time. SCE stated that the accounts will not be reenergized until land movement
is controlled to a level acceptable to SCE, without specifying the threshold of land
movement. The power shut off not only affects residents in the PBCA, but also the ability
to power the City’s sewer system in the area and the ACLAD’s dewatering wells. On
August 31, 2024, the City issued an evacuation warning for the properties affected due
to public health concerns if the City’s sewer system would be deemed inoperable. The
City has since partnered with residents to install generators to keep the sewer system
operable.
SCE issued a further notice that on September 2, 2024 at approximately 7:00 p.m. homes
in the Seaview neighborhood would be subject to the following service shut -offs: 75
properties will be deenergized for varying hours ranging from 24 hours to 1-3 weeks while
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a box loop is constructed and 30 properties will be deenergized indefinitely. This was
done to prevent the risk of wildfires from equipment damaged by the land movement.
On September 9, 2024, SCE restored power to the 38 properties that had been planned
to be without electricity for 1-3 weeks. At this time, 30 properties remain without electricity
in Seaview.
In light of these expanding shutoffs, the City hired consulting firm Transtech Engineers,
Inc. (Transtech) to investigate and develop potential alternative energy solutions. This
initiative aims to identify viable solutions that will reduce reliance on conventional energy
sources and improve the overall energy security for the impacted areas.
Transtech has been in communication with fourteen vendors offering various types of
distributed energy resources (DERs). DERs are renewable energy systems typically
installed at homes or businesses to provide on-site power, where the electricity is
generated or managed ‘behind’ the electricity meter in the home or business. Common
examples of DERs include rooftop photovoltaic (solar) units, battery storage, thermal
energy storage, electric vehicles and chargers, smart meters, and home energy
management technologies. These technologies come with costs for
homeowners/business owners, which can vary depending on the type of technology,
electricity demand, and usage. Table 1 below summarizes the DER options Transtech
explored and discussed with the various vendors.
Table 1- Alternative Energy Options and Approximate Costs
Energy Technology Type Approximate Cost
Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) independent from the grid and connected
directly to a house or business. $20,000 - $30,000 p/unit*
Roof top photovoltaic (solar) system and battery back-up. $30,000- $45,000**
Solar + Battery Backup + Propane Generator $30,000 -$45,000+
Portable Generators (various fuel types) Varies
Electric Vehicle (EV) Technology - Bi-directional charging. Varies
* Costs are approximate and vary on a case-by-case basis, depending on many factors such as time of use, demand, and usage
levels.
** Possible State and Federal rebates or tax credits. Some solar installers offer financing.
*** Rebates and incentives for over various generators can be found on SCE’s website at
https://www.sce.com/residential/rebates-savings/rebates
Battery Energy Storage System (BESS):
Several vendors offer a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), which is a device that
stores energy from renewable and non-renewable sources, and then releases it when
needed. While the core components of a BESS are the blocks formed by the batteries,
other key elements are also included. These include an inverter, w hich converts direct
current (DC) from the batteries to alternating current (AC) and vice versa; a transformer
to adjust the system's voltage to match the grid; and auxiliary systems (particularly for
cooling). This technology in some cases would require the vendor to follow SCE’s
interconnection guidelines.
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A BESS system can also be installed off the grid as stand-alone product that provides a
direct electrical feed to houses or businesses. BESS units are typically mounted on a
40’x8’ or smaller trailer (for mobility and ease of relocation) placed on site. Cables run
above ground or on the ground to either a single home or multiple homes and a BESS is
sized based on load demand. Batteries in the BESS unit are typically charged with roof
mounted solar panels.
Roof Top Solar with Battery Storage:
Rooftop solar with battery storage is a combination of solar panels and a battery that
stores solar energy for later use. This system allows homeowners to use solar energy at
night, during power outages, or when the sun is not out.
The number of solar panels needed for a home depends on many factors, including
energy usage, how much sun the home gets, local climate, the size of the available roof
surface, and the efficiency of the solar panels. Part of a roof top solar system may be a
solar battery. Solar batteries store the excess energy that solar panels generate on extra
sunny days for use during at a later time. A generator can also be added as a backup
option when the solar battery runs out of power.
The cost of installing a rooftop solar panel system with a battery storage solution can vary
significantly based on several factors. One of the main variables influencing cost is the
size of the solar panel system (measured in kilowatts, kW) and the capacity of the battery
(measured in kilowatt-hours, kWh). A typical residential solar system might range from 5
kW to 10 kW, while battery systems can range from 5 kWh to 15 kWh or more. Another
key variable is the number of solar panels needed, which depends on many factors,
including energy usage; how much sun the home receives; local climate; the size of the
available roof surface; and the efficiency of the solar panels. Additionally, the type of
equipment significantly affects price with certain brands coming with a higher initial cost
but often offering better performance and warranties. Furthermore, the complexity of
installation influences the price and depends on the roof type.
There may be applicable incentives such as tax credits, rebates, or financing options that
can significantly reduce the upfront costs. For example, in the U.S., the federal solar tax
credit (ITC) allows homeowners to deduct a percentage of the installation costs from their
federal taxes. It is advisable to get quotes from multiple local solar providers to get a more
accurate estimate based on the homeowner specific situation and to explore available
incentives.
Tesla has proposed roof top solar with battery storage via financing that is backed by the
City. This would require an agreement between the City and Tesla whereby the City would
pay off the roof top solar with battery storage for a home that is red -tagged or otherwise
defaults on the financing.
Solar, Battery Backup & Propane Generator:
To be doubly prepared for power outages, homeowners can have both roof top solar with
battery storage and a backup generator. However, the generator and the solar battery
cannot run at the same time. When an outage occurs, the battery will kick in first and
operate until it runs out of power. Once the battery shuts off, the generator will take over.
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Portable Generators:
Portable generators are versatile internal combustion engines that supply temporary
electrical power during an outage. The primary function of a portable generator is
converting fuel – usually gasoline, diesel, or propane - into electricity using an internal
combustion engine. This generated electricity can then power essential home appliances
like refrigerators, air conditioners, or other appliances.
Portable generators offer several advantages and disadvantages. The table below
provides an overview of these pros and cons.
ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES
Provides temporary or remote electric power
during emergencies and outages that is
portable and easy to transport
Can be hazardous to health and safety and
cause damage to electrical systems if not
installed or used safely; fuel costs and
storage can be prohibitive.
Available in various sizes and types to meet
different needs
Some models can be noisy
Electric Vehicle Bi-Directional Charging:
Some electric vehicles (EVs) can be charged like normal, but also have the capability to
reverse the flow of energy. This allows the stored energy in the EV's battery to be used
to power a home.
Microgrids:
The feasibility of establishing a microgrid was investigated. A microgrid is a small-scale
power system that can operate independently or in connection with the main power grid.
Microgrids can be used to provide power to a specific area, such as a neighborhood. The
U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) defines the microgrid as ‘‘a group of interconnected
loads and distributed energy resources within clearly defined electrical boundaries that
acts as a single controllable entity with respect to the grid. A microgrid can connect and
disconnect from the grid to enable it to operate in both grid-connected or island-mode.”
One of the key components of a microgrid is power generation. This can be accomplished
by either obtaining power from a large-scale power generation facility such as a
powerplant or solar farm, or by producing power locally with a local solar farm. Producing
power locally does not appear to be a viable option for the City because there is
inadequate physical space to produce sufficient power for the neighborhoods affected by
land movement.
The other key component of a microgrid is power distribution. Power can be distributed
using existing power poles and lines or through the installation of new power lines. The
use of existing power poles is not a viable option at this time because SCE will not allow
the City to use its power poles and lines.
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Alternative Energy Next Steps:
City-sponsored electricity solutions do not appear viable at this time for the reasons
described above. The most feasible path forward is likely individual structure -level roof
top solar, battery backup, and/or generators. Given the current land movement and the
uncertainty of when stabilization will occur, homeowners and business owners must
consider potential structural impacts to their properties before investing in energy
technologies, as each option comes with associated costs.
All referenced energy technologies are readily available, but it’s essential for each
homeowner and business owner to conduct their own research to determine which
technology best suits their specific needs.
Before installing a backup generator that will be connected to a home or business
electrical system, owners must obtain a City permit (fees waived) and notify SCE of the
location of the generator by completing and submitting an application for interconnection
to SCE according to California Health and Safety Code Section 119085 (b). This is
because a generator may push power into any wires connected to the house, including
the wires coming in through the meter. This is called “backfeed” and creates a dangero us
situation. Any electrical workers performing work on a line with backfeed will not know
there is power in the line and may be injured or lose their lives. If a line with backfeed
breaks and falls to the ground, it can also start fires or electrocute an yone that comes
near the line.
The City has requested SCE explore alternative means to re -energize the affected
neighborhoods until electricity can been restored. The information provided in this report
is being shared with SCE for their consideration as the City’s energy provider.
e. Sanitary Sewer
The sanitary sewer system in the PBCA is known as the Abalone Cove Sanitary Sewer
System and is owned, maintained, and operated by the City. The system includes grinder
pumps that pump wastewater from individual buildings to the main sewer lines at
approximately 40 locations where buildings are at a lower grade than the main sewer
lines, requiring pumping to overcome the grade . The system also includes four pump
stations that receive wastewater from low-lying areas and pump it up to higher elevations
where it can continue to flow via gravity. The grinder pumps and pump stations require
power to operate.
When the electric power was shut off to the PBCA on September 1, 2024; the grinder
pumps and three pump stations could no longer operate without an alternate power
source such as generators (the fourth lift station is located outside the de-energized area).
This could have resulted in a requirement to yellow tag the homes in PBCA in accordance
with Los Angeles County requirements. That same day, members of the PBCA offered to
loan the City three generators for the pump stations, allowing the pump stations to remain
operational with the City providing assistance with power connections. As soon as
businesses opened on September 3, 2024 (after the Labor Day holiday), the Public Works
Department ordered generators for all homes with grinder pumps. These grinder pumps
became available to be loaned to residents on September 8, 2024, but only after
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generators had been loaned to the ACLAD to continue to operate the dewatering well
pumps. The generators were loaned with an agreement requiring , among other things,
professional installation. On September 9, 2024, the City acquired its own generators for
the pump stations and installed them to replace the ones provided earlier by residents. At
the time of publication of this staff report, 9 grinder pump generators have been loaned
to residents.
Crews continue to regularly inspect the sewer lines and make repairs as breaks are
identified through inspections or resident notification. Parts of the system have been
brought above ground and have had flexible components installed. Engineers continue
to evaluate the system to determine where additional sections need to be brought above
ground or otherwise modified.
The sanitary sewer system in the Seaview neighborhood is maintained and operated by
the Los Angeles County Public Works (LACPW), which has been inspecting the sewer
system in areas affected by the landslide and performing repairs when needed.
The underground sanitary sewer main line on Dauntless Drive in the vicinity of a fissure
at the intersection with Exultant Drive was most recently repaired on August 2, 2024.
Since that time, it is being inspected daily and minor adjustments have been made to
prevent further breaks. The underground sanitary sewer line at the fissure on Exultant
Drive was most recently repaired on September 3, 2024 and is being inspected daily since
that time. The underground sanitary sewer line at the fissure on the Palos Verdes Drive
South (PVDS) service road was most recently repaired on September 12, 2024 and is
being inspected daily since that time. Repairs to the underground sanitary sewer line at
the fissure on Admirable Drive were started on September 23, 2024 and are expected to
be completed within one to two weeks, after which the sewer will be inspected on a daily.
The sanitary sewer system in the PBBC is privately owned, operated, and maintained
and discharges into the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts (LA CSD) sewer trunk
line on PVDS. LACSD have been coordinating with the PBBC, so that the sewer line
integrity is maintained. It should be noted that this sanitary sewer system is also powered
by SCE.
f. Water Utility
Cal Water continues to install above ground water lines to minimize the risk of breaks
associated with land movement and have indicated that they have no intention or plan to
shutoff service especially for wildfire purposes.
Cal Water completed installation of the above ground water line on Exultant Drive and
began servicing residents on September 9, 2024. At Admirable Drive, construction of the
above ground water line is complete, but Cal Water must pressure test the line and
sample the water before it is cleared for service. This line is expected to be in service by
September 30, 2024. Exhibit 1 on the next page shows the locations of these water lines.
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Exhibit 1: Additional Water Main Moving Above Ground in the Seaview Neighborhood
Along PVDS, construction of the above ground water line is complete, but Cal Water must
pressure test the line and sample the water before it is cleared for service. Exhibit 2 on
the next page shows the location of this water lines.
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Exhibit 2: Additional Water Main Moving Above Ground Along PVDS Near Yacht Harbor Drive
Cal Water is continuing to bring water lines above ground in the PBCA and PBC. Along
Figtree Road, the line was successfully brought above ground and has been servicing
residents as of September 9, 2024. The City continues to work with Cal Water to expedite
above grounding projects.
g. Communications Utilities
There are two providers of communications infrastructure in the Landslide Complex area,
Cox Communications and Frontier Communications. On September 9, 2024, Cox
Communications disconnected 146 customers in the PBCA. Frontier Communications
has indicated to the City that they will keep their facilities operational so long as they have
power supply.
Crown Castle provides infrastructure for wireless carriers servicing the City, including in
the landslide area. Staff had been working with Crown Castle to identify infrastructure at
risk of land movement so that it can be made more reliable or relocated. Additionally, Staff
had been working with Crown Castle to install additional wireless infrastructure to provide
additional capacity and redundancy. During various discussions, it became apparent to
Staff that Crown Castle was not planning on taking any specific action in the short term
to improve resiliency to land movement, increase capacity, or improve redundancy.
Staff also reached out directly to wireless carriers Verizon and AT&T to discuss
improvements to wireless services in the landslide area. The discussions have been
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ongoing for the past several weeks. The carriers have indicated that they do not plan to
install Cell on Wheels facilities (COWs) expressing financial concerns. At this time, it is
not clear if the wireless carriers will implement specific measures to improve services in
the landslide area. The carriers stated that installation of wireless service improvements
is a business decision whereby the cost of installing such improvements is considered
against customer density. It appears that installing improvements in higher density
communities is more profitable for wireless carriers and therefore more likely to be
prioritized.
h. Building Division Programs and Permitting
Mandatory Water Restrictions in Landslide Area:
Due to the continued local landslide emergency, the City continues to strongly
recommend that property owners in the Landslide Complex turn off sprinkler/irrigation
watering systems for the foreseeable future to minimize additional water being absorbed
into the ground in the vicinity. Additionally, for those properties with swimming pools, if
there is more water loss than occurs due to evaporation, the property owner is being
asked to consider refraining from refilling the pools and consider emptying the pool to
prevent water entering the ground. A Mandatory Restrictions notice was initially issued in
October 2023 with information on pool draining. This notice is not intended to be punitive
but to achieve voluntary compliance and provide guidance to residents.
Building Inspections in Landslide Area:
Building & Safety Division Staff continue to proactively conduct windshield inspections of
the residential neighborhoods (PBC, Seaview, and PBCA) within the Landslide Complex
multiple times per week to monitor conditions, particularly structures. Staff have also
visited commercial/institutional sites to evaluate the safety of the structures.
The National Historic Registered Wayfarers Chapel experience d significant damage due
to land movement. The Chapel has been de-constructed and preserved so that it can be
re-constructed when the land movement can be stabilized or moved to another location.
The City continues to work with Chapel representatives in an effort to keep this landmark
in Rancho Palos Verdes. The administration building on the Wayfarers Campus was red-
tagged due to structural damage sustained by the ongoing land movement and has been
demolished.
To date, the City’s Building Official has red-tagged two homes in the Seaview
neighborhood. The property owners of those homes are being notified that the condition
of the structures is at a point that warrants demolition. An additional two homes in the
Seaview neighborhood and one home in the PBCA were yellow-tagged, allowing for
limited access to the portions of the homes that are still habitable.
In recent weeks and months, safety concerns have been raised regarding the structural
integrity of some buildings and homes due to the accelerated rate of land movement. In
response, the City is offering an inspection process.
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In early August 2024, the Building & Safety Division conducted a windshield inspection of
homes within the landslide complex to identify potential damage or structural stress. The
windshield inspection focused on signs of structural stress or damage to existing
structures that are readily apparent.
The City issued an advisory letter to those homeowners where there were signs of
structural stress, recommending that they schedule a voluntary inspection with the
Building & Safety Division, noting that the sooner they are able to take protective
measures, the easier it may be to minimize structural damage.
Where signs of damage or structural stress are evident, the City’s Building & Safety
Division will work with those homeowners to identify strategies to save structural integrity
and prevent further damage, with public health and safety being top priority. An inspection
may necessitate consideration of repairs to maintain structural integrity. Some examples
of what we would look for and want to help residents address are:
• foundation problems
• inadequate egress
• insufficient or blocked exits
• severe structural damage
• utility failures
• fire damage
• gas leaks or lack of critical utilities
There may be more extreme situations where a portion of the home remains habitable
and accessible to the homeowner and only the area of concern would be restricted from
use until repaired. The City wants to work with homeowners to find solutions on a case
by case basis to shore up structures for safe habitation
Urgency Ordinance for Temporary Repairs and Housing on Private Property:
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.
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
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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.
On September 3, 2024, City Council adopted an Urgency Ordinance 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
Landslide Complex. Staff is working collaboratively with the community to preserve
existing structures within the Landslide Complex and consider potential options for
temporary housing. All permit fees are being waived.
Utility Conversion Education and Permitting:
Due to the recent de-energization to many homes in the landslide complex by the utility
companies, the City’s Community Development Department prepared informational
handouts related to energy conversion.
• The Alternatives for Natural Gas Service handout outlines alternatives for natural
gas service to continue serving key home appliances and equipment including, but
not limited to, stoves, furnaces and water heaters. The handout also provides
requirements for permit issuance and inspections.
• The Solar Energy Systems handout highlights the City’s solar energy submittal and
permit requirements, which include online permitting and expedited plan review.
The handouts have been made available to area residents, posted on the City’s
website and placed at the Building & Safety Division public counter.
• The Community Development Department also prepared an information handout
related to the safe installation of generators.
Waiver of Permit and Application Fees:
The City is waiving all permit fees and is waiving the planning process for the above
energy conversions with the understanding that the permits are being issued during the
duration of the City’s declared local state of emergency.
The City has the ability waive any permit or application fees associated with the proposed
reconstruction of a building or other structure that has been damaged or destroyed by a
landslide (see Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal Code ((RPVMC)) below). The applicant
does need to demonstrate that these fees are not covered by the applicant’s
homeowners’ insurance policy. At this time, they would still have to pay the City’s
consultant review fees (geologist, plan check), but City Staff are waiving permit and
application fees as applicable, based on the following:
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RPVMC 17.78.010
F. Any permit or application fees (excluding city consultant review fees) associated
with the proposed reconstruction of a building or other structure (or portion thereof)
that has been damaged or destroyed by fire, earthquake, landslide or an
involuntary act of the property owner shall be waived, provided that the rebuilt
building or structure is no more than 250 square feet larger than it was prior to the
damage or destruction, and provided that the applicant can demonstrate that said
fees are not covered by the applicant's homeowners' insurance policy. In the event
that three or more properties are affected by any single incident, the city council
may, in its discretion:
1. Grant a fee waiver without making the findings specified in subsection
(B) of this section; or
2. Deny the waiver in its entirety or grant only a partial waiver, based upon
a finding of adverse fiscal impact to the city.
These are applications/permits that would fall under Exceptions A or C of the moratorium
in Urgency Ordinance 686U (moratorium described below). The City is documenting
these exceptions in the permit tracking software and referencing this section of code when
waiving the permit/application fees.
In addition to waiving fees where applicable, Staff are expediting application and permit
processing for these temporary measures.
Moratorium Exception and Waiver of Statement from Geotechnical Consultant:
On October 3, 2023, the City Council, pursuant to the RPVMC Chapter 2.24 and
Government Code § 8630 and § 8680.9, proclaimed a state of local emergency within the
Landslide Complex. In the event of a proclamation of local emergency, the City Manager,
as Director of Emergency Services, is empowered to make and issue rules and
regulations on matters reasonably related to the protection of life and property as affected
by such emergency, provided such rules and regulations must be confirmed at the earliest
practicable time by the City Council.
On October 3, 2023, the City Council further adopted Interim Urgency Ordinance No.
674U, approving a moratorium on all construction in the Landslide Complex, renewed the
moratorium by adopting Interim Urgency Ordinance 675U on November 14, 2023 , and
further renewed the moratorium by adopting Urgency Ordinance 686U on September 3,
2024 (the “Moratorium”). The Moratorium will expire on October 2, 2025. Subject to
certain exceptions, “during the effective period of [the moratorium], 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.”
Emergency structural and foundation repairs to a home impacted by the significant land
movement qualify under the Exception A category set forth in Section 2 of the Moratorium
(“Exception A”). This Exception is for “[c]onstruction necessary for repair or m aintenance
of existing structures, roadways, and any infrastructure such as water lines, sewer lines,
electrical or traffic installations, etc.”
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Chapter 15.20 of the RPVMC provides that certain building permits require the applicant
to obtain a geologist report. Based on the speed of land movement, however, no such
geologist report can be obtained. Thus, in order to move forward with temporary repa irs,
a waiver of this requirement is necessary.
The City Manager, through his authority under RPVMC 2.24.060 and Resolution No.
2023-47, as renewed, has authorized waivers for the required geologist reports for these
emergency repairs qualifying under Exception A of the Moratorium, due to the significant
land movement and that these repairs are for temporary emergency repairs. Staff are
requiring that the applicant acknowledges that these repairs are for temporary repairs
during the significant land movement and are being approved under emergency
conditions. The property owner must agree to hold the City harmless, and recognize that
once the emergency is lifted, the temporary foundation or structural repairs may need to
be replaced with permanent repairs and a statement from the geotechnical consultant.
The applicant is also required to sign a waiver acknowledgement form.
On July 2, 2024, the City Council confirmed the City Manager’s action as Director of
Emergency Services to waive the requirement of applicants of permits for emergency
repairs to obtain a statement from the geotechnical consultants.
Staff recommends receiving and filing this update on current conditions, including the City
Geologist’s report, in the Greater Portuguese Bend -Ancient Altamira Landslide Complex
2. Options for Emergency Protective and Stabilization Measures
Deep Dewatering Wells
On May 7, 2024, the City Council approved contracts for installing two emergency
hydrauger systems with five drain arrays each in the PBL, preceded by vertical test
boreholes to better understand underground conditions and establish the specific
locations of the hydraugers and their drains.
The vertical test boreholes provided essential data for the project because they confirmed
the existence of a deeper slide plane , at approximately 245 to 345 feet below ground
surface at the test borehole locations, corresponding to a portion of the mapped Landslide
Complex. The deeper slide surface was found to be moving at a much faster rate than
the shallower slide surface. Additionally, the test boreholes confirmed highly pressurized
water conditions within and below the deeper slide surface as well as below the shallower
slide.
The confirmed presence of a deep slip surface where the greatest movement is occurring
represented a significant change in conditions and required changing the emergency
stabilization strategy in response to the new information. Accordingly, on August 20,
2024, the City Council authorized alternative solutions including deep dewatering wells
(DDWs).
Installation of the first deep dewatering well, DDW1, began on September 10, 2024 after
completing the necessary advanced vertical boreholes. DDW1 became operational and
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began extracting water on September 13, 2024. One of the key unknowns for the DDW
program was how easily water would move through the soil and rock so that it could be
pumped up by DDWs. The nearly immediate productivity of DDW1 indicated that soil
conditions were suitable for water extraction. This meant that expending resources on
additional DDWs in the area was likely to also result in additional water extraction and
decrease in water pressure beneath the slide. Therefore, the plan to drill additional DDWs
was accelerated. DDW2, DDW3, DDW4, and DDW5 became operational and began
extracting water on September 17, 2024, September 21, 2024, September 21, 2024, and
September 25, 2024; respectively. At the time of publication of this staff report, DDW1
through DDW5 are pumping nearly 600 gallons per minute, or nearly 850,000 million
gallons per day. DDW6 installation is in progress and it is expected to begin extracting
water on by October 1, 2024. Additionally, installation of test boreholes in advance of
DDW7 and DDW8 is expected to begin on September 30, 2024. Figure 1 below shows
the location of the DDWs.
Figure 1: Test Boreholes, Deep Dewatering Wells, and Piezometer Monitoring Wells
To collect data on the reduction in water pressure resulting from the DDW program, which
helps quantify results and plan future DDWs, boreholes with piezometer instruments
measuring water pressure (P1 through P3) are being installed as shown in Figure 1. The
results of water pressure readings at P1 show that there is an ongoing reduction in water
pressure. Additional boreholes with piezometers are planned for DDW7 and DDW8.
To supplement subsurface data and further assess the effectiveness of the DDW
program, additional Global Positioning System (GPS) monitoring points were installed in
the vicinity of the DDWs to collect data measuring the effect of the DDW program on land
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movement in comparison to general landslide movement. The additional points were
measured on September 4, 2024 to establish a baseline rate of movement. The rate of
land movement at those nearby points and at select other points was again measured on
September 20, 2024. In general, the rate of movement throughout the Landslide Complex
has decreased over the summer months on the order of 10% to 20% from the rates
experienced in the spring months. In the vicinity of the DDWs, the rate of movement has
decreased a further 10% to 20% for the period between September 4, 2024 and
September 20, 2024. There appears to be a strong correlation between water extraction
(which began with one DDW on September 13, 2024), a reduction in water pressure, and
a decrease in the rate of surface movement; which is very encouraging even though it is
based on one data set thus far. The GPS survey data for nearby points will be collected
on a weekly basis to continue to monitor this trend. (Attachment E)
The project team expected DDW1 to shear within one week due to the rate of movement
of the deep slide. However, at the time of publication of this staff report, 12 days after
installation, DDW1 had not yet sheared. This further confirms the apparent effectiveness
of the DDW program. Each DDW is still expected to shear at some point, and will need
to be redrilled below the deep slip plane to continue pumping water from the deeper zone
(water from the shallower slip plane is being pumped as well). The DDWs are being
monitored and plans are in place to re-drill them as they shear.
The early results of the DDW program exceeded the project team’s expectations , which
presents an opportunity to expand the DDW program, depending on available funding
and cross-jurisdictional cooperation. The City Council may consider one or more next
steps as described below. There are significant costs to installing and maintaining DDWs,
including re-drilling of wells as they shear. The costs are presented for a three -month
period with an assumption of how often each DDW will need to be re -drilled based on
anticipated rates of movement. It is possible that the costs could be less if the DDWs are
more successful than anticipated and therefore need to be drilled less freq uently. Staff is
presenting the costs over a three-month period, after which the program should be re-
evaluated based on how successful it is and the expected future maintenance costs.
Following are the DDW program expansion options for the City Council’s consideration:
1. Maintain Current DDW Program for Additional 3 Months: this option consists of
continuing to re-drill DDW1 through DDW8 so that they continue to extract artesian
water for an additional three months, and then reassessing conditions.
Advantages:
• Controls the cost of the overall program to allow time to pursue external
funding sources.
Disadvantages:
• Limited area of reduced movement.
• Rate of reduction of movement will diminish over time because of the
limited reach of DDW1-DDW8.
Estimated Cost = Up to $2m for 3 Months of Operation
Implementation Schedule Forecast = Immediate
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2. Expand DDW Program Landward of Palos Verdes Drive South : this option consists
of installing approximately 5 additional DDWs landward of PVDS.
Advantages:
• Expands the area of reduced land movement.
• Increases survivability of DDW1-DDW8, meaning they shear less
frequently, therefore reducing re-drilling costs.
• Constrution equipment access relatively well established.
Disadvantages:
• Expanded area of reduced land movement remains within the PBL area.
• Does not focus on area with the most homes.
• Water discharge routes not well established.
Estimated Cost = Up to $4m for Installation and 3 Months of Operation
Implementation Schedule Forecast = Begin Approximately 2 Weeks After Approval
3. Expand DDW Program to Abalone Cove Landslide Area: this option consists of
installing approximately six new DDWs in the lower ACL area, with two to three
DDWs near the Sacred Cove and two to three near the Abalone Cove area.
Advantages:
• Expands the area of reduced movement.
• Targets an area where land movement is impacting many homes.
• Targets an area currently showing the greatest rate of movement and
impact on critical infrastructure including PVDS.
• Water discharge routes are relatively well established.
• Constrution equipment access relatively well established.
Disadvantages:
• Significant additional cost.
• Impact not immediate because additional borehole data is needed.
• Risk that DDWs would not be as effective because conditions differ from
those at DDW1-DDW8.
• Concern that City may be assuming ACLAD functions and costs.
Estimated Cost = Up to $7m for Installation and 3 Months of Operation
Implementation Schedule Forecast = Begin Approximately 2 Weeks After Approval
4. Expand DDW Program to Klondike Canyon Landslide Area: this option consists of
installing one or two new DDWs in the lower KCL area.
Advantages:
• Expands the area of reduced movement.
• Targets an area where land movement is impacting many homes.
• Water discharge routes are already established.
• Constrution equipment access relatively well established.
Disadvantages:
• Some additional cost.
• Impact not immediate because additional borehole data is needed.
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• Risk that DDWs would not be as effective because conditions differ from
those at DDW1-DDW8.
• Concern that City may be assuming some KCLAD functions and costs.
Estimated Cost = Up to $3m for Installation and 3 Months of Operation
Implementation Schedule Forecast = Begin Approximately 2 Weeks After Approval
The estimated costs above include test boreholes and piezometer pore pressure
monitoring wells for each DDW option.
The estimated costs are based on an estimate of the how long each DDW will last using
current movement rates. Actual costs may be lower if DDWs have a significant immediate
impact and need to be re-drilled less frequently.
As a separate item on tonight’s agenda, the City Council is being provided with an update
on the Portuguese Bend Landslide Emergency construction contracting and being asked
to reconfirm the need to continue the emergency work.
The City Council is being asked to direct staff on which of the above options (one or any
combination thereof) to implement.
Emergency Stabilization Measures – Winterization
Reducing the artesian water pressure on the deep slip plane has proven to be an effective
method of reducing the rate of land movement. However, if stormwater continues to enter
the ground, the artesian pressure will recharge and the reduction in land movement may
be greatly reduced. Therefore, another important component of managing the landslide
is reducing the potential for water infiltration. Although there are many fissures throughout
the Landslide Complex, the project team geologists have emphasized the fissures in the
canyons as the highest priority. With unlimited resources and time, the recommended
course of action would be to re-establish drainage from the canyons all the way to the
ocean. However, given the current rate of movement , those improvements may have
limited duration. When also considering time and resource limitations, the project team is
recommending focusing on filling fissures in the canyons; which are higher up in the slide
formation and contribute more directly to water infiltration. Therefore, the City Council
may consider one or more of the following emergency winterization measures:
1. Altamira Canyon: this option consists of filling the large fissures in Altamira Canyon
with local soil and using a bentonite base seal or cover liner.
Advantages:
• Addresses the highest priority water intrusion point in the ACL.
Disadvantages:
• Is not a permanent solution for water intrusion in Altamira Canyon.
• Requires significant ongoing maintenance.
• Assumes an ACLAD responsibility.
Estimated Cost = $2m
Implementation Schedule Forecast = 2-3 Month Completion
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2. Klondike Canyon: this option consists of filling the large fissures in Klondike
Canyon with local soil and using a bentonite seal or cover liner.
Advantages:
• Addresses the highest priority water intrusion point in the KCL.
Disadvantages:
• Is not a permanent solution for water intrusion in Klondike Canyon.
• Requires significant ongoing maintenance.
• Assumes an KCLAD responsibility.
Estimated Cost = $0.5m
Implementation Schedule Forecast = 2-3 Month Completion
3. Portuguese Canyon, Ishibashi Canyon, and Paintbrush Canyon: this option
consists of filling the large fissures in Portuguese, Ishibashi, and Paintbrush
Canyons with local soil and using a bentonite seal or cover liner.
Advantages:
• Addresses the highest priority water intrusion point in the PBL.
Disadvantages:
• Is not a permanent solution for water intrusion in Portuguese, Ishibashi,
and Paintbrush Canyons.
• Requires significant ongoing maintenance.
Estimated Cost = $1m
Implementation Schedule Forecast = 2-3 Month Completion
4. Seaview Grabens: this option consists of installing a lightweight concrete fill, sump
pumps, and sandbags in graben at the intersection of Dauntless Drive and Exultant
Drive to seal the graben, as well as filling the other fissures on Exultant Drive and
Admirable Drive, to prevent water intrusion.
Advantages:
• Addresses the highest priority water intrusion points in Seaview.
• Reduces the weight being added at a key point in the KCL.
Disadvantages:
• Is not a permanent solution.
• Requires ongoing maintenance.
Estimated Cost = $0.5m
Implementation Schedule Forecast = 2-3 Week Completion
It should be noted that the City has had conversations with Los Angeles County Public
Works and Flood Control District requesting financial and labor and equipment assistance
with the proposed winterization options described above. As of writing this report, the City
has not received a response.
The City Council is being asked to review options and provide next steps in the
emergency protective and stabilization measures. Staff will begin implementing measures
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per City Council direction immediately and will return with the needed new or amended
contracts/agreements.
3. Financial Report
ACLAD/KCLAD Loans Update
On August 20, 2024, the City received the signed loan agreements from ACLAD and
KCLAD. Since the City Council’s loan approval in July 2024, the Public Works team has
been working with the two Geologic Hazard Abatement Districts (GHADs) on their
projects as outlined in the agreements. The agreements have not been finalized for City
signatures because certain provisions must be met before issuing the funds to the
GHADs. Therefore, the loans of $1.6 million to ACLAD and $1.9 million to KCLAD have
not been disbursed. This amount is included as projected expense in FY 2024-25 as
shown in Table 2 below.
Expenditures to Date and FY 2024-25 Year-End Estimates
Overall, the City’s estimated expenditures for the Portuguese Bend Landslide from
October 2022 through June 2025 are approximately $35.3 million. As shown in Table 2,
total expenditures for FY 2022-23 are $1.7 million, followed by an increase of 46 4% to
$9.6 million in FY 2023-24. In the current fiscal year, $4.3 million has been incurred and
encumbered, with an additional $19.7 million projected by June 30, 2025, reflecting a
150% increase from the prior year. These costs include emergency response efforts such
as test boreholes, fissure filling, road repairs, sewer repairs, estimated time and costs for
personnel dedicated to the project, legal services, loans to districts, and increased tax
assessments.
Table 2 – PB Landslide Costs – Emergency Response/Other – October 2022 - June 2025
Funding Sources
The $35.3 million is funded through various sources, including the General Fund, CIP
Fund, ARPA, and Metro Funds (Table 3). Of the $35.3 million, Staff anticipates a cost
recovery of approximately $1.5 million in a form of public assistance through the disaster
DESCRIPTION
FY 22-23
ACTUAL
FY 23-24
ACTUAL
FY 24-25
YTD + PO'S
FY 24-25
PROJECTED
3 YRS.
TOTAL
OCTOBER 2022 - JUNE 30, 2025 In Millions
Emergency Response
Boreholes 1.9 2.3 7.1 11.3
Other 1.2 0.6 0.7 2.5
Fissure Filling 0.6 0.0 1.2 1.8
Road Repairs 1.0 2.8 0.5 3.0 7.3
Ab Cove Sewer Repairs 0.04 0.8 0.1 1.2 2.1
Personnel Costs 0.1 1.2 0.0 2.6 3.9
Legal Services 0.02 0.1 0.0 0.3 0.4
PBL Remediation 0.5 1.1 0.1 0.0 1.6
ACLAD/KCLAD Loans 3.5 3.5
Tax Assessments 0.7 0.7
TOTAL: OCTOBER 2022 - JUNE 2025 $1.7 $9.6 $4.3 $19.7 $35.3
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recovery program from FEMA and CalOES from the Winter Storm and Energy Shutoff
state of emergency and federal disaster declarations. These recovery funds are still in the
application stage and are not guaranteed. If deemed eligible, the reimbursement process
can take a minimum of one year to three years before the City receives the funds.
Table 3 – PB Landslide Funding Sources – Emergency Response/Other for Oct 2022 - Jun
2025
As shown in Table 3, Staff estimates, at a minimum, approximately $6.1 million in
emergency response costs that will require City Council approval for budget
appropriation. Table 4 below is a summary of these unfunded costs:
Table 4 – Emergency Response (Unfunded)
It is important to note that the $35.3 million presented above does not include the emergency
stabilization measures that are presented for the City Council’s consideration, as described in the
previous section and summarized below.
Estimated Costs for the Emergency Stabilization Measure Options
In addition to the $35.3 million of estimated landslide expenditures, Table 5 on the next
page is a summary of the various options previously described in detail for City Council’s
consideration. The combined total for all options previously described is approximately
$20 million. Based on the most recent information that the City received from FEMA and
CalOES, the emergency stabilization measure options are considered a pre-existing
landslide condition (mapped on USGS and CGS) and therefore, not eligible for disaster
cost recovery funding according to the Stafford Act and California Disaster Assistance
Act. However, the City’s efforts in securing more funds from federal, state, and local are
FUNDING SOURCES FY 22-23
Actual
FY 23-24
Actual
FY 24-25
YTD + PO's
FY 24-25
Projected TOTAL
In Millions
ARPA 0.1 2.9 2.9
CIP 0.5 7.5 2.3 7.8 18.1
General Fund 0.2 1.2 0.7 2.7 4.8
Measure R 0.03 0.03
Prop C 1.0 0.9 0.0 1.4 3.4
Unfunded - Emergency
Response (FY 2024-25)1.2 4.9 6.1
TOTAL*$1.7 $9.6 $4.3 $19.7 $35.3
*The City Applied for disaster cost recovery from FEMA & CalOES. As of September 2024, of the $35.3M of
expenditures, only $1.5M is estimated to be deemed eligible. The City continues to advocate for funding.
Emergency Response (Unfunded)FY 2024-25
Ab Cove Sewer Repairs 1.3
Fissure Filling 1.2
Road Repairs 1.9
Other - Legal, Equipment, Prof/Tech, Signs 1.7
TOTAL (in millions) $6.1
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ongoing and Staff will continue to pursue funding assistance from all levels of government
and will continue to update the City Council.
Table 5 – Emergency Stabilization Measure Options (Unfunded)
Overall, the Portuguese Bend landslide emergency response is expected to reach at
approximately $35.3 million over three fiscal years. Within this total, the estimated
minimum unfunded emergency response is approximately $6.1 million. Tonight, the City
Council is also being asked to review and direct Staff regarding options for emergency
stabilization measures of up to $20 million, bringing the overall total up to $55.3 million
from October 2022 through the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. Depending on the City
Council’s direction tonight, the total funding requires an appropriation in FY 2024-25 that
could range between $6.1 million and $26.1 million. Since the City Council is being asked
to consider options, an appropriation recommendation is not being presented for C ouncil
consideration but may be incorporated in a motion at the meeting.
Available Sources for City Council’s Consideration
As of August 2024, based on the City Council’s reserve policy, the available balance that
the City Council may consider is $24.5 million as presented in Table 6 on the following
page. Additionally, the City Council is also being asked for direction on the allocations of
the recently received $5 million grant from the Fourth District Supervisor Janice Hahn of
the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors (discussed in the next section).
Emergency Stabilization Measures Est. Amount
Emergency Stabilization Measures – Deep Dewatering Wells (DDW)in millions
Maintain Current DDW Program For Additional 3 Months 2.0
Expand DDW Program Landward of Palos Verdes Drive South 4.0
Expand DDW Program to Abalone Cove Landslide Area 7.0
Expand DDW Program to Klondike Canyon Landslide Area 3.0
Emergency Stabilization Measures – Winterization
Alta Mira Canyon 2.0
Klondike Canyon 0.5
Portuguese Canyon, Ishibashi Canyon, and Paintbrush Canyon 1.0
Seaview Grabens 0.5
UNFUNDED - Emergency Stabilization Measures*$20.0
*The City applied for disaster cost recovery from FEMA and CalOES. As of September 2024, stabilization measures are not
deemed eligible, however, the City's efforts in securing more funds from federal, state, and local are ongoing*
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Table 6 – Available Sources for City Council’s Consideration
1. CIP Fund ($5 Million in Emergency Reserves)
At the end of FY 2023-24, the CIP Fund’s estimated fund balance is approximately $33
million. Based on the City Council reserves policy, $5 million serves as the City’s rainy-
day fund for capital projects, which the City Council may use as deemed necessary. As
illustrated in Chart 1, the remaining CIP fund balance of $28 million has already been
allocated to projects during the budget process as part of the FY 2024 -25 Five-Year
Capital Program.
Chart 1 – Funding for the FY 2024-25 Adopted Five-Year Capital Program
2. General Fund ($19 Million in Excess Reserves)
Based on the preliminary year-end results for FY 2023-24, the General Fund Balance is
estimated at $35 million (revenues minus expenditures and transfers), with $16 million
Fund Est. FY 2023-24
Fund Balance
City Council
Reserve Policy
Available Balance for
City Council's
Consideration
CIP $33M $5M Restricted for
Emergency Reserves
(Rainy Day Fund)
$5M
Emergency Reserves
General Fund $35M 50% or $16M
(Rainy Day Fund)
$19M
Excess Reserves
ARPA $0.5M N/A $0.5M
Re-allocate Hesse Park
Technology Project
TOTAL $24.5M
*FUND BALANCE is the net of Revenues minus Expeditures*
*EXCESS RESERVES is the net of Fund Balance minus 50% or $16M of City Council Policy*
*Five-Year Capital Program are based on projected expenditures (approx. @ 70% of total costs)
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restricted as the 50% rainy day fund, and the remaining $19 million is unallocated (excess
reserves). Based on this information and in accordance with the City Council reserve
policy, the City Council may consider using the excess reserves to fund the emergency
project. Considering the excess reserve first would preserve the 50% or $16 million of the
rainy day fund for other City emergency events.
Chart 2 below illustrates the historical excess reserve balance since 2015 and the impact
of $19 million reduction on this balance. In 2015, the City’s excess reserves amount to
$7.2 million, increased to $9 million by FY 2019-20, and estimated to reach at $19 million
in FY 2023-24. Utilizing the available excess reserves of $19 million is estimated to reduce
the excess reserves balance by approximately 95% or $1 million by the end of FY 2024 -
25.
Chart 2: Impact of $19M on General Fund’s Excess Reserve (after 50% City Council
Reserve Policy)
Chart 3 illustrates the projected ten-year financial model that was presented during the
FY 2024-25 budget workshop, and now incorporating the assumption of a one-time
reduction of $19 million. As shown in the chart, this would be a one-time impact in
expenditures in FY 2024-25, with the remaining years indicating that the General Fund
would continue to meet the projected operating needs from FY 2025-26 through FY 2032-
33.
Chart 3: Impact of $19M on the 10-Year Financial Model (General Fund)
in millions
Includes Transfers
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In summary, allocating $19 million from excess reserves would still comply with the City
Council’s policy of maintaining a 50% reserve, or $16 million, for emergencies without
disrupting ongoing general fund operations in the next ten years, based on a set of
assumptions available today. Though, it’s important to note that the $19 million represents
over 20 years of accumulated excess reserves from general city operations and should
be carefully considered. Moreover, using all $19 million would also limit the City's capacity
to pursue new projects and programs in the future.
3. ARPA Fund ($0.5 Million)
For ARPA funds, given the upcoming deadline to award a contract by December 31, 2024,
Staff is seeking the City Council’s approval to reallocate approximately $500,000 from the
Hesse Park Technology Improvement project to avoid losing these funds. Based on the
status of the project, Staff does not expect to award the contract in time to meet the
December deadline. The funding for this project will be revisited at the next budget cycle.
4. Cost Recovery and Other Sources (Non-Guaranteed)
Up until September 12, 2024, Table 6 summarizes the City’s requests for cost recovery
from CalOES and FEMA in the amount of $61.4 million. Of this amount, $39.4 million is
public assistance (City) and $22 million of individual assistance (residents).
As reported earlier, according to FEMA and CalOES natural disaster recovery funds will
not occur for landslide remediation efforts. Out of the $39.4 million application for public
assistance (City), Staff is projecting only approximately $1.5 million in potential disaster
recovery funds from the Winter Storm and Energy Shutoff. For the $22 million individual
assistance application that the City submitted on behalf of the residents, the City has been
notified that these funds will not become available. However, the City continues to seek
funding assistance from all levels of government and will continue to pursue disaster
recovering including potentially appealing decisions.
Table 6 – Cost Recovery Applications
Additionally, Staff continues to explore other funding opportunities, as outlined below, and
will report back to the City Council with any progress updates. Potential sources include:
• The City’s CJPIA insurance claims for the 2024 winter storm, covering parks and
public buildings affected by the storm.
• LA County Metro Funds, such as Measure M, through the call for projects from the
South Bay Cities Council of Governments. This funding would be specifically for
the reconstruction of PVDS after landslide stabilization.
Agency Description Event Amount
In Millions
FEMA Public Assistance (City)Winter Storm
(Jan/Feb 24)38.4
CalOES Public Assistance (City) Energy Shutoff 1.0
CalOES Individual Assistance (Residents) Energy Shutoff 22.0
TOTAL $61.4
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Staff seeks City Council approval to receive a financial report on City expenditures and
estimated costs for emergency protective and stabilization measures in response to the
acceleration of the Landslide Complex since October 2022 .
4. $5 Million Pledge by Supervisor Hahn
For approximately five years now, the City has been proactively meeting with our county,
state, and federal elected officials seeking financial assistance with the implementation
of the Portuguese Bend Remediation Project. To date, the City has not receive d any
financial assistance.
At the February 20, 2024 City Council meeting, Jennifer LaMarque, on behalf of Sup.
Hahn pledged $5 million to be used toward the landslide remediation project. On
September 5, 2024, the City received the draft Social Program Agreement (Agreement)
and offered suggested edits on September 9, 2024. The City Manager signed the
Agreement (Attachment G) on September 11, 2024, with the understanding that a portion
of the $5 million funds could be used for individual assistance , as well as critical
emergency protective and stabilization measures in response to the land movement.
On September 18, 2024, the City received the $5 million via direct deposit.
Staff seeks for City Council’s approval to accept and approve an appropriation of a $5
million Social Program Agreement in the form of financial assistance related from Fourth
District Supervisor Janice Hahn of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.
5. Proposed Allocation of the Social Program Agreement
The Agreement (Attachment G) executed between the City and Los Angeles County
specifies how the $5 million pledged financial assistance to the City from Sup. Hahn may
be used in response the land movement. Specifically, the Agreement states:
The funds will be used by the City of Rancho Palos Verdes to assist in their
response to the greater Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex ("Landslide"), which
is damaging homes and critical infrastructure. Approximately 15,000 daily
commuters rely on Palos Verdes Drive South to access the City or adjacent
communities, including workers at the City's job centers and visitors traveling
throughout Los Angeles County to enjoy public facilities such as Palos Verdes
Nature Preserve, Abalone Cove Park, and Lower Point Vicente to name a few.
The funding will be applied toward responding to conditions associated with the
Landslide and includes, but is not limited to, public roads, critical infrastructure
such as the City-owned sewer system in the Portuguese Bend Community
Association, dewatering wells, as well as for costs associated with actions to
address public safety, health, and transportation conditions created by the
Landslide. Funding will be used to address immediate emergency relief efforts for
residents who have been impacted by the L andslide's recent movement. Due to
safety concerns, residents are facing emergency shutoffs for an indefinite period
related to the area's utilities, including gas, electricity, and communication lines,
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which will require the use of generators and other supplies and resources. In
addition, funds may be used to assist residents who may evacuate their homes.
As stated in the Agreement, the City Council may use the funds to provide residents with
immediate emergency relief resulting from land movement and/or the indefinite utility
shutoffs. Furthermore, the funds may be used to assist residents who may need to
evacuate their homes. With that in mind, the City Council may consider:
A. Relief Efforts to Residents
• Establishing a grant program for affected property owners, one grant per
residential property owner. The number of property owners are
approximately estimated at 280.
• Providing affected property owners with $10,000, for a total allocation of
approximately $2.8 million, depending on number applications received.
• Eligible expenses may include, but are not limited to:
o Purchasing supplies and equipment due to utility shutoffs
o Recovering home repair and hardening measures that allow
residences to remain occupied.
o Housing expenses including, but not limited to, temporary
housing, storage expenses, utility bills, etc.
• To promote accountability in the grant program involving tax dollars,
eligible expenses must be substantiated with documentation (i.e.,
receipts, statements) prior to disbursement.
• The grant program could open to eligible recipients within a week.
Eligible recipients need to apply for the grant and provide the necessary
documentation. If all requirements are met, the eligible recipients can
expect to receive their grant reimbursement approximately within a week
after their application approval.
• The program will be implemented by the City’s Finance Department, with
final approval of all disbursements by the City Manager.
• Finance Director will include a reimbursement report as part of the future
landslide City Council staff report.
B. City’s Critical Infrastructure
In addition to direct relief efforts to the residents, as stated in the Agreement, the City
Council may also consider allocating a portion of the funds towards the emergency
stabilization measures to directly benefit residents living within and outside the landslide
complex. These costs should not be used for any City personnel costs.
As previously reported, the City estimates a total of $35.3 million for emergency response
in the past three years, and that the City Council will be considering additional emergency
stabilization measure options tonight of up to $20 million, bringing the overall total to
approximately $55.3 million from October 2022 through the fiscal year ending June 30,
2025. Given the potential significant impact of the landslide expenditures on the City’s
financials, and in accordance with the grant provisions, the Cit y Council may allocate the
remaining balance of these funds to help address the $26.1 million funding gap. These
expenditures would comply with the provisions of the Agreement, including the City-
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owned sewer system in the PBCA, PVDS repairs, dewatering wells, and costs associated
with actions aimed at improving public safety, health, and transportation conditions
impacted by the landslide.
Staff seeks City Council’s direction on the proposed allocation of the $5 million pursuant
to the Social Program Agreement between Los Angeles County and the City:
a. Provide $10,000 in individual financial assistance to property owners of
residences impacted by the landslide in PBCA, Seaview and PBBC as outlined
within the geographic boundaries identified in the City Council proclaimed Local
Emergency Declaration; and,
b. Fund, based on the remaining balance, City-initiated landslide response and
stabilization efforts consisting of, but not limited to, public roads, City-owned
sewer system in the Portuguese Bend Community Association, dewatering wells,
as well as for costs associated with actions to address public safety, health, and
transportation conditions created by the Landslide.
6. Resource Coordination and Voluntary Questionnaires for Impacted Residents
Resource Coordination
The City has been coordinating with all three affected neighborhoods to understand their
needs as they evolve with the continuous land movement and energy shutoffs. In an
initial effort to provide the widest breadth of services, the City hosted Resource Centers
on August 6, August 8, September 1, and September 11 at Ladera Linda Community Park
with representatives from City Departments; Los Angeles County agencies such as the
Assessor’s Office, Mental Health Services, and Animal Care; the Fire and Sheriff’s
Departments; and non-profit organizations such as the Rotary Club, Salvation Army, and
Red Cross. All agencies provided referrals to services and resources that are available
on the City’s website at www.rpvca.gov/landmovement.
The City has also been in regular communication with the homeowners association for all
three neighborhoods to better understand their ongoing needs and concerns. This has
most recently included the purchase, delivery, and installation of solar streetlights;
generators for homes with grinder pumps; delivery of dirt to fill fissures; and no-cost and
expedited permits to install alternate utilities and temporary solutions to shore up homes.
The City has also established a Re-Charging Station at Ladera Linda Community Park
for residents to charge devices, and a “community living room” for affected residents to
work, study, or rest - open from 9am to 9pm daily. The City is continuously working to
research and coordinate other amenities and resources to address of the loss of utilities,
ranging from security patrols, cell phone connectivity for emergencies, laundry facilities,
shower facilities, warm meal programs, and longer-term power sources.
The Rotary Club of Palos Verdes Peninsula, in coordination with the City, has stepped
forward to organize donation efforts, in the form of a relief fund, for residents affected by
the landslide. The Rotary is accepting check and online donations that will be directed
towards the most emergent needs of residents.
34
Voluntary Questionnaires
Following discussions with the Rotary, Fire and Sheriff's Departments, it became evident
that various stakeholders would benefit from an improved understanding of each
neighborhood’s most emergent needs. To obtain this information in a more methodical
manner, the City has prepared two voluntary questionnaires (Attachment C) for eligible
residents. Both questionnaires are voluntary, and any results would be kept confidential
by the City and any organizations that are officially partnering with the City to deliver
resources to affected residents.
The first questionnaire is comprised of 13 questions and is intended to gather general
contact and household information, the current living situation of households and
managing the loss of utilities, their living conditions, and their highest priority needs.
Additional questions about their access to renter’s or homeowner’s insurance and
coverage are information that have previously been requested by the state and may be
requested by other agencies in the future.
The second questionnaire is a voluntary registry for households that temporarily or
permanently moved out of their homes in the Landslide area and wish to register their
vacant properties with the City and the Fire and Sheriff’s Department to assist with public
safety response efforts, whether it is during their patrols or investigations following an
incident in the vicinity. Questions include the date the home is vacated; names of
individuals or service providers such as gardeners who may routinely be at the home ;
and any actively operating alarms or cameras on the premises. All questions are optional,
and residents may de-register their homes as needed.
Both questionnaires are expected to take 5-10 minutes to complete and will be available
online as well as in paper form. They will be distributed through the 3 HOAs, who maintain
the emails and contact information for all the homes in their neighborhood.
Pursuant to City Council Policy No. 2, Staff is requesting the City Council review and
provide input on the draft questionnaires and if deemed acceptable, authorize Staff to
issue them to eligible residents.
7. Extension of the Local Emergency Declaration
On October 3, 2023, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2023-47 declaring a local
emergency. The emergency declaration is deemed to continue to exist until its termination
is proclaimed by the City Council in accordance with law. Government Code § 8630
requires the City Council to review of the need for continuing the local emergency at least
once every 60 days until the City Council determines the local emergency within the
geographic boundaries of the Landslide Complex has been abated or mitigated to
insignificance. The state of emergency was continued by the City Council on November
14, 2023, pursuant to Resolution No. 2023-56, again on December 19, 2023, pursuant to
Resolution No. 2023-61, again on February 6, 2024, pursuant to Resolution No. 2024 -05,
again on March 19, 2024, pursuant to Resolution No. 2024 -13, again on May 7, 2024
pursuant to Resolution No. 2024-20, again on July 2, 2024 pursuant to Resolution No.
2024-44, and again on August 6, 2025 pursuant to Resolution No. 2024 -51. At this time,
the City Council is being asked to extend the local emergency declaration an additional
35
60 days through November 30, 2024, which does not require a public hearing. If extended
this evening, the Council would consider renewing the local emergency declaration again
during the next landslide update on November 19, 2024.
The City Council is being asked to adopt Resolution No. 2024 -__ thereby extending the
Declaration of Local Emergency by 60 days (Attachment A).
8. Extension of the Local Emergency Declaration for Utility Shutoffs
On August 6, 2024, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2024 -52 declaring a local
state of emergency because of a sudden and severe energy shortage caused by shutting
off of natural gas service to approximately 135 homes in the Portuguese Bend Community
Association due to safety concerns. On September 3, 2024, the City Council adopted
Resolution No. 2024-57, declaring a local state of emergency because of a sudden and
severe energy shortage caused by shutting off of natural gas service, planned
deenergization events, and internet shut -offs in the PBCA, Seaview, and PBBC. The
emergency declaration is deemed to continue to exist until its termination is proclaimed
by the City Council in accordance with law. Government Code § 8630 requires the City
Council to review of the need for continuing the local emergency a t least once every 60
days until the City Council determines the local emergency because of a severe energy
shortage has been abated or mitigated to insignificance. At this time, the City Council is
being asked to extend the local emergency declaration an additional 60 days through
November 30, 2024, which does not require a public hearing. If extended this evening,
the Council would consider renewing the local emergency declaration again during the
next landslide update on November 19, 2024.
The City Council is being asked to adopt Resolution No. 2024 -__ thereby extending the
Declaration of Local Emergency by 60 days (Attachment B).
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
CalOES and FEMA Meetings
On September 12, 2024, the City Manager and Public Works Director met with Nancy
Ward, Director of CalOES; Robert Fenton, FEMA District 9 Administrator; and Kevin
McGowan, Director of Los Angeles County Office of Emergency Management and their
respective staff. The meeting was in response to the City’s repeated requests for state
and federal assistance with the Landslide Complex; including individual assistance, public
assistance, and technical assistance.
a. Individual Assistance (IA): CalOES and FEMA informed the City that IA will not be
deployed to affected residents. CalOES and FEMA informed the City that they
consider the landslide to be a pre-existing condition because it is included in the U.S.
Geological Survey (USGS) and California Geological Survey (CGS) maps. The City
contended that the deeper slide movement is not an existing condition; however,
CalOES and FEMA stated that their definition is based solely on the existence of the
slide on USGS and CGS maps. Additionally, CalOES and FEMA informed the City
that the threshold for IA is typically upwards of a thousand destroyed or severely
damaged residences or structures, which is not met in this case. Furthermore,
CalOES and FEMA made it clear that even if IA was deployed, it would only be in the
36
form of 60 days of rental assistance at fair market value, with some possible time
extensions under very specific conditions.
b. Public Assistance (PA): CalOES and FEMA informed the City that although the
threshold for PA had been met, no disaster recovery funding would be available
because CalOES and FEMA consider the landslide to be a pre -existing condition as
described above. In other words, the City will not be reimbursed for the costs of deep
dewatering wells, winterization, repairs to PVDS, etc.
c. Technical Assistance (TA): CalOES and FEMA informed the City that TA would be
provided to the City and that various agencies such as the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers (USACE), the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), USGS, and CGS
would be deployed. On September 26, 2024, the City Manager, Public Works Director,
ACLAD, and KCLAD met with geologists from USACE, FEMA, CalOES, and CGS.
The purpose of the meeting was to scope the specific TA that would be provided.
Representatives of the agencies clearly stated that they would not provide
engineering, project management, or construction assistance. The City and Districts
requested TA in the form of sharing new ideas for landslide mitigation, peer reviewing
planned actions, and providing surveying and/or other measurements of the landslide.
The agencies stated that they provide peer review services and consider any other
assistance that may be available after consulting with their leadership.
BRIC Grant Update
In January 2023, the City applied for a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) FY22 cycle grant for the
Portuguese Bend Landslide Remediation Project (PBL Remediation Project). The grant
application was for the entire project including five hydrauger arrays with five drains each,
surface drainage swales with a flow reduction area, and fissure infilling. The total cost of
construction as well as associated professional services was estimated in November
2022 to be approximately $33.3 million. The City applied for funding for 70%, or $23
million, of the cost of the project. The BRIC program requires the $10 million balance of
the project cost to be funded through non-federal sources.
On August 28, 2023, FEMA announced the PBL Remediation Project was selected, with
$23.3 million being allocated, not obligated, for the City’s project. This means that the
project met the basic eligibility requirements and enters the next phase of the awards
review process.
The emergency protective and stabilization measures are separate scope from the PBL
Remediation Project, therefore, the BRIC grant funds cannot be used for the emergency
protective and stabilization measures. Because some of the emergency protective and
stabilization measures overlap with portions of the PBL Remediation Project footprint; the
City was required to submit a revised BRIC grant to exclude any overlap between the
emergency protective and stabilization measures footprint and PBL Remediation Project
footprint. The revised PBL Remediation Project BRIC grant amount is approximately
$16.4 million, with a required non-federal match of approximately $7 million.
On July 31, 2024, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (CalOES)
37
received notification that FEMA approved Phase 1 of the City’s application which includes
project management, final engineering, environmental deliverables, construction
documents, project agreements, and permits. The total obligation amount (corrected from
what was reported at the July 31 Neighborhood Q&A and the August 6 Council meeting)
is $2,295,091, up to actual approved costs, and a non -federal share of 30% up to
$718,138. A funding decision for Phase 2, or the construction and related activities phase,
will be made upon completion of Phase 1.
KCLAD Activities
KCLAD currently has three wells at a depth of approximately 165 below ground surface;
two of those wells are extracting approximately 80 gallons per minute and one well
extracting approximately 250 gallons per minute. There is one well at a depth of
approximately 15 feet below ground surface, which is extracting approximately 20 gallons
per minute. A fifth well is being installed at a depth of approximately 165 below ground
surface is expected to become operational during the week of September 30, 2024.
KCLAD is working on a plan in Klondike Canyon to install interconnected flexible pipes
and sandbags to trap spring water and convey it to the 16” pipe further downstream.
Additionally, KCLAD and Staff continue to discuss preparations for implementation of
KCLAD’s 5-Step Plan that includes installing various water extraction and storm drainage
solutions and filling fissures.
ACLAD Activities
ACLAD continues to repair wells and drainage lines as jams and breaks occur. ACLAD
continues to jointly work on installing temporary flexible drainage pipe for the Kelvin
Canyon Spring so that surface water does not infiltrate into the ground and contribut e to
land movement by recharging the water table. ACLAD is also working on plans to install
additional dewatering wells, with specific locations to be defined and reviewed by the City
Geologist.
CalOES/FEMA Funding for Other City Projects
The information in Table 7 is provided for reference only and is not related to the
Portuguese Bend emergency response and the temporary projects discussed above.
However, the funds will help supplement the City’s funding needs by reducing the costs
covered by the General Fund (for goats, $900,000) and CIP Fund (for landslide $2.3
million). A total of $3.2 million have been approved by CalOES and FEMA, and it is now
the City’s responsibility to secure them by providing eligible expenditures and meeting the
funding compliance requirements. These funds have been incorporated in the City’s
financial modeling. Staff reports to accept and appropriate the grants are scheduled for
City Council’s approval in October and November.
38
Table 7 – Additional Information – CalOES/FEMA Funding for Other Projects
CONCLUSION:
The early results of the DDW program exceeded the project team’s expectations, which
presents an opportunity to expand the DDW program, depending on available funding
and cross-jurisdictional cooperation. Staff is seeking City Council direction one or more
next steps for the DDW program. Although reducing the artesian water pressure on the
deep slip plane has proven to be an effective method of reducing the rate of land
movement, if stormwater continues to enter the ground, the artesian pressure will
recharge and the reduction in land movement may be greatly reduced. Therefore, Staff
is seeking City Council direction on a winterization program.
Overall, the Portuguese Bend landslide emergency response is expected to reach
approximately $35.3 million over three fiscal years. Within this total, the estimated
unfunded emergency response is approximately $6.1 million. The options for emergency
protective and stabilization measures may reach up to $20 million, bringing the overall
total to $55.3 million from October 2022 through the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.
Staff is seeking City Council direction on the funding appropriation in FY 2024-25, which
could range from $6.1 million to $26.1 million.
Staff seeks for City Council’s approval to accept and approve an appropriation of a $5
million Social Program Agreement in the form of financial assistance related from Fourth
District Supervisor Janice Hahn of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.
Staff recommends that the City Council extend the local emergency declarations for an
additional 60 days.
ALTERNATIVES:
In addition to Staff recommendation, the following alternative actions are available for
the City Council’s consideration:
1. Take no action and simply receive and file this report.
2. Do not accept and approve an appropriation of $5 million pursuant to a Social
Program Agreement providing financial assistance related to the Greater
Portuguese Bend-Ancient Altamira Landslide Complex from Fourth District
Supervisor Janice Hahn of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors; and do
not provide direction on the proposed allocation.
39
3. Do not provide input on two draft questionnaires to be sent to households affected
by the Greater Portuguese Bend-Ancient Altamira Landslide Complex and instead
direct Staff not to issue the questionnaires.
4. Do not adopt resolutions continuing the local emergency declarations.
40
01203.0023/1014970.1
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-__
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA, CONTINUING
THE LOCAL EMERGENCY DECLARATION AS
ESTABLISHED BY RESOLUTION NO. 2023-47 ADOPTED
ON OCTOBER 3, 2023 FOR AN ADDITIONAL 60 DAY
PERIOD
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
of the alarming increase of land movement in the Greater Portuguese Bend Landslide
Complex, as depicted in Resolution No. 2023-47 Exhibits “A” and “B”. Resolution No.
2023-47, and the exhibits thereto, is incorporated by reference.
WHEREAS, on October 3, 2023, the City Council by a 4/5 vote also adopted
Interim Urgency Ordinance No. 674U, establishing a moratorium on all construction in the
Landslide Complex.
WHEREAS, on November 14, 2023, the City Council by a 4/5 vote adopted
Resolution No. 2023-56, extending the state of emergency for an additional 60 days.
WHEREAS, on December 19, 2023, the City Council by a 4/5 vote adopted
Resolution No. 2023-61, extending the state of emergency for an additional 60 days.
WHEREAS, on February 6, 2024, the City Council by a 4/5 vote adopted
Resolution No. 2024-05, extending the state of emergency for an additional 60 days.
WHEREAS, on March 19, 2024, the City Council by a 5-0 vote adopted Resolution
No. 2024-13, extending the state of emergency for an additional 60 days.
WHEREAS, on May 7, 2024, the City Council by a 5-0 vote adopted Resolution
No. 2024-20, extending the state of emergency for an additional 60 days.
WHEREAS, on July 2, 2024, the City Council by a 5-0 vote adopted Resolution
No. 2024-44, extending the state of emergency for an additional 60 days.
WHEREAS, on August 6, 2024, the City Council by a 5-0 vote adopted Resolution
No. 2044-51, extending the state of emergency by an additional 60 days.
WHEREAS, the state of emergency is deemed to continue to exist until its
termination is proclaimed by the City Council in accordance with law. Government Code
§ 8630 requires the City Council to review of the need for continuing the local emergency
at least once every 60 days until the City Council determines the local emergency within
the geographic boundaries of the Landslide Complex has been abated or mitigated to
insignificance.
WHEREAS, after consideration of all facts reasonably available the City Council
now desires to extend the declaration of a state of local emergency within the Landslide
Complex.
A-1
Resolution No. 2024-__
Page 2 of 3
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS
VERDES, CALIFORNIA, HEREBY FINDS, DETERMINES, AND RESOLVES 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. Proclamation of Emergency. The City Council finds, pursuant to
RPVMC Chapter 2.24 and Government Code §§ 8630 and 8680.9, there exists an actual
condition of peril to the safety of persons and property exiting within the Greater
Portuguese Bend Landslide, comprised of the Portuguese Bend Landslide, the Abalone
Cove Landslide, and the Klondike Canyon Landslide), as depicted in Exhibits “A” and “B”
of Resolution No. 2023-47, and based on the staff report and recommendations and
public testimony, and hereby proclaims that a state of local emergency continues to exist
throughout the same.
SECTION 3. Authority Granted. It is further proclaimed and ordered that during
the existence of said local emergency, the powers, authority, functions and duties of the
Disaster Council, Director, and the City’s emergency services organizations shall be
those prescribed by State Law, City ordinances, Resolution No. 2023-47 and any other
applicable resolutions, and approved plans of the City in order to mitigate the effects of
the local emergency.
SECTION 4. Immunity Invoked. To the maximum extent permitted by law, and
pursuant to Government Code § 866, the City Council hereby invokes the immunity
afforded to the City of Rancho Palos Verds in adopting and implementing the declaration
of local emergency within the Landslide Complex
SECTION 5. Duration. The local emergency shall be deemed to continue to exist
until its termination is proclaimed by the City Council in accordance with law.
SECTION 6. Continuing Declaration. Government Code § 8630 requires the
City Council to review of the need for continuing the local emergency at least once every
60 days until the City Council determines the local emergency within Landslide Complex
has been abated or mitigated to insignificance.
SECTION 7. Severability. If any subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or word of
this Resolution or any application of it to any person, structure, gathering, or circumstance
is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a decision of a court of competent jurisdiction,
then such decision will not affect the validity of the remaining portions or applications of
this Resolution.
SECTION 8. Effectiveness. This Resolution shall take effect immediately. A copy
of the Proclamation and this Resolution shall be forwarded to the California Emergency
Management Agency. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this
resolution..
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED on this 1st day of October, 2024.
A-2
Resolution No. 2024-__
Page 3 of 3
________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
________________________________
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, hereby certify that
the above Resolution No. 2024-__ was duly and regularly passed and adopted by the
said City Council at a regular meeting thereof held on October 1, 2024.
___________________________
City Clerk
A-3
01203.0023/1017109.1
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-__
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CALIFORNIA, TO EXTEND
THE STATE OF LOCAL EMERGENCY WITHIN THE
GEOGRAPHIC BOUNDARIES OF THE PORTUGUESE
BEND COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, PORTUGUESE BEND
BEACH CLUB, AND SEAVIEW NEIGHBORHOOD, BASED
ON SUDDEN ENERGY SHORTAGES, PLANNED
DEENERGIZING EVENTS, AND INTERNET SERVICE
SHUT OFFS, AS ESTABLISHED BY RESOLUTIONS NOS.
2024-52 AND 2024-57, FOR AN ADDITIONAL 60 DAYS
WHEREAS, the City of Rancho Palos Verdes is home to four out of five sub -slides
that comprise the Greater Portuguese Landslide Complex (Landslide Complex): the
Portuguese Bend Landslide, Abalone Cove Landslide, Klondike Canyon Landslide, and
Beach Club Landslide. The Portuguese Bend Landslide encompasses the Portuguese
Bend Community Association (PBCA), the Seaview Neighborhood (Seaview), and the
Portuguese Bend Beach Club (PBBC). The Landslide Complex has been active since the
1950s.
WHEREAS, the 2022-2023 rainy season brought exceptional amounts of rain to
the region, dumping 20.9” of rain or 190% of the average annual rainfall in the region.
WHEREAS, by April 26, 2024, total rainfall for the 2023-24 season (beginning Oct
1, 2023) was 23.01" or 169% of the historical 67-year average of 13.63" for this rain
gauge. (All data based on LACDPW Rainfall Gauge No. 1011B at Rolling Hills FS.)
WHEREAS, beginning in 2018, but particularly since May 2023, the land
movement in the Landslide Complex has increased significantly due to increased rainfall
in the last two rainy seasons, which caused the water table to rise dramatically and
destabilize the landslides. The City has established, via repeated geologic studies, that a
significant factor in the speed of land movement in the Districts is the amount of water in
the soil.
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 due to the
alarming increase of land movement in the Landslide Complex. The state of emergency
based on the land movement has been extended as required by law and is still active.
WHEREAS, on August 6, 2024, the City Council by unanimous vote adopted
Resolution No. 2024-52, declaring a local state of emergency because of a sudden and
severe energy shortage caused by shutting off of natural gas service to approximately
135 homes in the PBCA due to safety concerns.
WHEREAS, on September 3, 2024, the City Council by unanimous vote adopted
Resolution No. 2024-57, declaring a local state of emergency because of a sudden and
severe energy shortage caused by shutting off natural gas service and planned
deenergization events in the PBCA.
B-1
Resolution No. 2024-__
Page 2 of 3
WHEREAS, on September 6, 2024 at approximately 3 p.m., SoCalGas shutoff
natural gas service indefinitely to 29 homes in the western Seaview area and 25 homes
in Portuguese Bend Beach Club due to safety concerns associated with land movement.
WHEREAS, on September 6, 2024 at approximately 6 p.m., Cox Communication
discontinued internet, video, and home telephone services to residents in the PBCA due
to safety concerns associated with land movement.
WHEREAS, after consideration of all facts reasonably available the City Council
now desires to extend the declaration of a state of local emergency within the Landslide
Complex.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS
VERDES, CALIFORNIA, HEREBY FINDS, DETERMINES, AND RESOLVES 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. Extension of Local State of Emergency. The City Council finds,
pursuant to RPVMC Chapter 2.24 and Government Code §§ 8630, 8680.9, and 8558
there exists an actual condition of peril to the safety of persons and property existing
within the PBCA, Seaview, and PBBC, as established by Resolutions No. 2024-52 and
2024-57, and based on the staff report and recommendations and public testimony, and
hereby proclaims that a state of local emergency continues to exist throughout the same.
Section 3. Authority Granted. It is further proclaimed and ordered that during
the existence of said local emergency, the powers, authority, functions and duties of the
Disaster Council, Director, and the City’s emergency services organizations shall be
those prescribed by State Law, City ordinances, Resolution Nos. 2023-52 and 2024-57,
and any other applicable resolutions, and approved plans of the City in order to mitigate
the effects of the local emergency.
Section 4. Immunity Invoked. To the maximum extent permitted by law, and
pursuant to Government Code § 866, the City Council hereby invokes the immunity
afforded to the City of Rancho Palos Verds in adopting and implementing the declaration
of local emergency within the Landslide Complex.
Section 5. Duration. The local emergency shall be deemed to continue to exist
until its termination is proclaimed by the City Council in accordance with law. Government
Code § 8630 requires the City Council to review of the need for continuing the local
emergency at least once every 60 days until the City Council determines the local
emergency within the geographic boundaries of the Landslide Complex has been a bated
or mitigated to insignificance.
Section 6. Continuing Declaration. Government Code § 8630 requires the
City Council to review of the need for continuing the local emergency at least once every
B-2
Resolution No. 2024-__
Page 3 of 3
60 days until the City Council determines the local emergency within the PBCA has been
abated or mitigated to insignificance.
Section 7. Severability. If any subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or word of
this Resolution or any application of it to any person, structure, gathering, or circumstance
is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a decision of a court of competent jurisdiction,
then such decision will not affect the validity of the remaining portions or applications of
this Resolution.
Section 8. CEQA. The City Council finds that this Resolution 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 9. Effectiveness. This Resolution shall take effect immediately. A copy
of the Proclamation and this Resolution shall be forwarded to the California Office of
Emergency Management. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this
resolution.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED on this 1st of October, 2024.
________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
________________________________
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, hereby certify that
the above Resolution No. 2024-__ was duly and regularly passed and adopted by the
said City Council at a regular meeting thereof held on October 1, 2024.
___________________________
City Clerk
B-3
Questionnaire of Households Affected by the Portuguese Bend Land Movement
October 2024
➢ Purpose: This is a voluntary questionnaire of households affected by the Portuguese Bend landslide
to help the City understand their needs and how best to deploy resources, if and when they become
available.
➢ Eligibility: Residents who rent or own a home in the Portuguese Bend Community, Portuguese Bend
Beach Club, and Seaview Community and have experienced landslide damage or indefinite utility
shutoffs are asked to take this voluntary survey by October 11, 2024.
➢ Additional Information: Your responses will be used confidentially by the City, the Sheriff’s
Department, and Fire Department to assist with emergency response efforts. Results may also be
shared confidentially with other government agencies and non-profit organizations that are officially
partnering with the City to deliver resources to affected residents.
➢ For Questions: Call the City of Rancho Palos Verdes at 310-544-5200 or email
LandMovement@rpvca.gov. More info is available at www.rpvca.gov/landmovement.
This questionnaire includes 13 questions and should take 5-10 minutes to complete. If you need
assistance or would like a paper questionnaire to be mailed to you, please call or email the City.
General Information
1. Address of the affected home: _____________________
2. Your neighborhood:
• Portuguese Bend Community
• Portuguese Bend Beach Club
• SeaView Community
• Other: __________
3. Primary point of contact for your home:
• Name
• Email address
• Phone number
C-1
Household Information
4. Number of people living in the home, or who lived in your home before you vacated it:
• Number of people dependent on electricity for medical equipment or medication
• Number of people who have a disability
• Number of students under 18 years old
• Number of seniors over 65 years old
5. Number of animals living at the home, or who lived at the home before you vacated it:
• Number of small animals and pets
• Number of large animals, such as horses
Living Situation and Needs
6. Are you planning to continue living in your home in the next six months?
• No plans to move
• Considering moving
• Moving or have moved [please fill out the vacant home registry (to be linked)]
• Other: ____________________
7. If you are planning to continue living in your home, how to do you plan to manage the loss of
utilities such as electricity, gas, etc.
• I am planning to or have already installed alternate utilities including (check all that
apply):
o Residential generators
o Propane conversions
o Holding tanks
o Solar panels
o Other _______________
• I am using only temporary solutions such as a portable generator.
• None.
8. What are your current needs (select in order of priority with 1 being the most important)
• Generators
• Meals
• Ice
• Mobile restrooms and showers
• Laundry facilities
• Battery/solar charging stations
C-2
• Temporary or transitional housing
• Animal sheltering
• Portable cell towers
• Mental health
• Other social services
• Financial assistance
• Other _____________________
9. Please describe if you or anyone in your household have any urgent needs that are impacting
your health and safety?
Residence Type and Insurance
10. Do/Did you rent or own the home?
• Rent
• Own
11. Do you have renter’s or homeowners’ insurance?
• Renter’s insurance
• Homeowner’s insurance
• None.
12. If you have insurance, does it cover the cost of all damages caused by the land movement?
• No
• Yes
• Partial coverage
• Unsure
13. If you have insurance, does it cover the cost of all damages caused by the indefinite utility
shutoffs?
• No
• Yes
• Some coverage
• Unsure
C-3
Vacant Home Registry in the Portuguese Bend Landslide Area
➢ Purpose: This is a voluntary questionnaire for households that temporarily or permanently moved
out of their homes in the Portuguese Bend landslide area and wish to register their vacant properties
with the City and the Fire and Sheriff’s Department to assist with public safety response efforts.
➢ Eligibility: Residents who have temporarily or permanently moved out of a home in the Portuguese
Bend Community, Portuguese Bend Beach Club, and Seaview Community.
➢ Additional Information: Your responses will be kept confidential by the City, the Sheriff’s
Department, Fire Department, and other public agencies assisting with public safety efforts. Note
that adding your home to the registry does not in any way ensure that your home will be protected
or place any responsibility with the City, the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department, or the Los Angeles
County Fire Department for any damage that your property may incur.
➢ For Questions: Contact the City of Rancho Palos Verdes at 310-544-5200 or send an email to
LandMovement@rpvca.gov or contact the Lomita Sheriff’s Station Community Relations at 310-891-
3241 or daclowo@lasd.org.
This questionnaire includes 11 questions and should take 5-10 minutes to complete. If you need
assistance or would like a paper questionnaire be mailed to you, please call or email the City.
General Information
1. Address of the affected home: _____________________
2. Your neighborhood:
• Portuguese Bend Community
• Portuguese Bend Beach Club
• SeaView Community
• Other: ___________
3. Primary point of contact for your home:
• Name
• Email address
• Phone number
C-4
4. Should we contact you if there is an emergency at your home? (yes, no)
Status of Home (all questions are optional)
5. On what date did your household move out of the home? ________
6. Did you temporarily relocate or permanently move out of the home?
• Temporarily. If known, enter your return date: ________
• Permanently
7. Are you or other members of your household routinely checking on your home?
• No.
• Yes. List their names and frequency of check-ins: ________
8. Have you provided any neighbors or other individuals with access to your home?
• No.
• Yes. List their names and contact information: ________
9. Does your home have any actively operating alarms or security cameras?
• No.
• Yes. Provide the name of the alarm service and phone number for emergency purposes.
10. Will there be any service providers (e.g., gardeners) at your home while you are away?
• No.
• Yes. Provide the name of the provider and the days/times they will be there.
11. Is there anything else we should be aware of while you are away?
To deregister your home in the future, please email landmovement@rpvca.gov.
C-5
Portuguese Bend Land Movement Monitoring Survey
October 10, 2023 (M38) through September 20, 2024 (M46)
Survey Report
for the
City of Rancho Palos Verdes
prepared by
McGee Surveying Consulting
Dated: October 30, 2023 with subsequent updates through September 20, 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, since the beginning of 2024 due to the excessive
land movement the surveys have been conducted every six weeks and now every month as listed below. The
October 2023 is reported here in detail and subsequent surveys are reported as Addendums with appropriate
edits here. The movement results are included in the attached “PB MOVEMENT DATA POSTING M??…..xlsx”
made available shortly after completion of the field survey. Movements are reported for the average date of the
survey noted below and in the Addendums.
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
M43 Full Survey - July 1, 2024
M44 Full Survey - August 1, 2024
M45 Full Survey - September 4, 2024
M46 Partial Survey - September 20, 2024
SPREADSHEET ATTACHMENT: “PB MOVEMENT DATA POSTING M?? - 2007 to Present.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
F-1
McGEE SURVEYING CONSULTING
5290 Overpass Road, Ste#107, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Page 2 of 20
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
nearby 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. 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 M??
2007-[present].xlsx” 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 verification on 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.
F-2
McGEE SURVEYING CONSULTING
5290 Overpass Road, Ste#107, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Page 3 of 20
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
PVDS respectively. The separation between AB73 and AB50 is diminishing at the rate of about one foot per
month in April 2024 resulting in a steeper slope on the north side of PVDS which may be de-stabilizing.
Due to the continuously increasing velocities of land movement, the present on-site base stations (AB20 and
AB73) are no longer stable for measuring relative movements. In the January 2024 survey the Smartnet RTN
network utilizing remote base stations connected by the Internet was used to measure positions and vectors
which were re-referenced to PVE3RP and PVE3 in a network least squares adjustment. Surveys subsequent to
the January survey are referenced to a new base station monument “RP02” set about 1400 feet northerly of the
entrance to Abalone Cove Park and ¼ mile westerly of the present active slide boundary. See discussion
hereafter.
October 2023 GNSS Survey Monitoring Points Network
The monitoring points names were established in the early surveys. The points are named for the slide they fall
within and given a number. For example, slides AB, PB, KC, CR and FT. The number is increased as new
points are established to replace abandoned or destroyed points or expand the network. Many of the original
points are lost or no longer monitored. For data management purposes the point names are also prefixed with a
sequential monitoring number to distinguish subsequent surveys. For example, for the occupation of AB02 on
F-3
McGEE SURVEYING CONSULTING
5290 Overpass Road, Ste#107, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Page 4 of 20
the 16th monitoring survey, AB02 is called M16AB02 where M16 indicates the sequence number since the first
Monitoring Survey “M01” in September 2007. The prefix is stripped in the spreadsheet reports.
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 finds the differences at CGPS Station PVHS, Reference Point
PVE3RP and Monitoring point 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
F-4
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Page 5 of 20
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
F-5
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5290 Overpass Road, Ste#107, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Page 6 of 20
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)
F-6
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Page 7 of 20
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. All other Point Descriptions are listed in prior Reports
MONITORING POINT MONUMENT DESCRIPTIONS
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.
ADJUSTMENTS & ANALYSIS
The network 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
F-7
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Page 8 of 20
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
F-8
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Page 9 of 20
October 10, 2023 to January 13, 2024 Movement Distances (Feet) & Directions as Indicated
Note: Movement distances exaggerated 100x for viewing
Enlargement (PVDS) Enlargement (Seaview )
F-9
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Page 10 of 20
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
F-10
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Page 11 of 20
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. Points AB04, AB13, AB17, AB24, AB51, AB58, AB66, PB18, PB54,
PB55, CR51 and CR53 have foliage obstructions limiting sky (satellite) visibility and require clearing to facilitate
accurate results of the surveys.
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
F-11
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Page 12 of 20
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’.
ADJUSTMENTS & ANALYSIS
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.
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Page 13 of 20
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.
ADJUSTMENTS & ANALYSIS
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
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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.
ADJUSTMENTS & ANALYSIS
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
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5290 Overpass Road, Ste#107, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Page 15 of 20
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.
ADJUSTMENTS & ANALYSIS
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 verify the 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.
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Page 16 of 20
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
KC32 Temporary reference to KC31, took west side of chain link fence post south of PVDS
KC33 Found 1.5” GIP for Property Corner on top of dyke
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, PVE3RP & AB02).
Many of the monitoring points in the upper portion of the Reserve require substantial hiking for access due to
the slides. An assistant provided by sub-contractor Chris Nelson & Associates (CNA) is assigned these
locations.
ADJUSTMENTS & ANALYSIS
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 the position at 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
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Page 17 of 20
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 2.8 feet per average month in the last period with a
maximum of 4.69 feet per month. The general change in the rate of land movement (velocity) slowed and 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.
Points AB71 and CR07 destroyed since the last monitoring survey by slides and construction.
Point Description: Update of Set Points
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.
Addendum No. 7 Report
Portuguese Bend Land Movement Monitoring Survey
Full Monitoring Survey No. M45 – September 4, 2024
This is Full Monitoring Survey No. 45 Addendum Report. The field survey took place September 3, 2024 to
September 6, 2024 with an average date taken as September 4, 2024, 1.12 months after the last Monitoring
Survey. The survey included 102 monitoring points and 3 reference control points (RP01, RP02, PVE3RP &
AB02).
Many of the monitoring points in the upper portion of the Reserve require substantial hiking for access due to
the slides. An assistant provided by sub-contractor Chris Nelson & Associates (CNA) is assigned these
locations.
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ADJUSTMENTS & ANALYSIS
A minimally constrained adjustment was processed for the M45 survey 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 the position at 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_
AB02 -0.024 -0.022 0.00 Check Point
PVE3RP -0.000 -0.000 -0.00 Fixed Reference at City Hall
RP01 -0.017 0.007 0.05 Check Point
RP02 0.014 0.001 0.02 Base Station
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 periodically for additional verification of the stability and recovery of the refence frame.
2D Horizontal & Vertical Movements for 1.12 Months M44 to M45
The rate of land movement varies and averaged about 2.6 feet per average month in the last period with a
maximum of 4.0 feet per month. The general change in the rate of land movement (velocity) slowed and varied
from about -25% to +1% and averaged -13%. See the attached spreadsheet “PB MOVEMENT DATA
POSTING…M??. .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 are estimated at
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 Notes & Descriptions
See prior Reports for existing point descriptions. See the attached spreadsheet file “PB MOVEMENT DATA
POSTING…M??.” for California State Plane Coordinates Zone 5 in the NAD83 (2007) Epoch 2007.00 and
elevations in the NAVD88 Datum.
Points KC27 and PB73 were destroyed since the last monitoring survey by construction. PB73 was reset nearby
as new point PB76. Other new points are reported as follows: AB79, AB80, CR55A (replaces CR55), CR58,
CR59, FT10, & KC38 on the offshore uplift. The uplifted area is generally about 11 feet above mean lower low
water. Points KC34, KC35, KC36 & KC37 were set last month along and easterly of Schooner to assess if
movement was occurring in that area. No movement was detected above the noise level of the measurements.
Point Description: Update of Set Points
AB79 Found L&T on curb of 31&34 San Clemente Dr.
AB80 2” Magnetic Nail drilled into the asphalt road on Santa Catalina Dr.
CR55A Punch in center of square plastic marker in centerline of Valley View Dr.
CR58 Set 5/8”x 4’ rebar/ plastic cap “Control Pt”
CR59 Set 5/8”x 4’ rebar/ plastic cap “Control Pt”
FT10 Set 1”x 18” GIP/ plastic cap “Control Pt”
KC38 8” Spike on small bentonite rise in uplift 300’ south of old shoreline
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Addendum No. 8 Report
Portuguese Bend Land Movement Monitoring Survey
Full Monitoring Survey No. M46 – September 20, 2024
This is Partial Monitoring Survey No. 46 Addendum Report. The field survey took place September 20 2024
0.53 months after the last Monitoring Survey. The survey included 19 monitoring points along PVDS and 4
reference control points (RP01, RP02, RP03 & PVE3RP).
Many of the monitoring points in the upper portion of the Reserve require substantial hiking for access due to
the slides. An assistant provided by sub-contractor Chris Nelson & Associates (CNA) is assigned these
locations.
ADJUSTMENTS & ANALYSIS
A minimally constrained adjustment was processed for the M46 survey 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 RP02 and a check was made to PVE3RP and RP01 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 0.008 0.004 0.02 Reference at City Hall
RP01 -0.029 0.003 0.02 Check Point
RP02 0.000 0.000 0.00 Fixed Base Station
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. Additionally, California Spatial Reference Center CGPS (Continous
Operating GPS Stations) PVE3 and PVHS are incorporated periodically for additional verification of the
stability and recovery of the refence frame.
2D Horizontal & Vertical Movements for 0.56 Months M45 to M46
The rate of land movement for this sub-set of 19 points along PVDS varies and averaged about 1.9 feet per
average month in the last period with a maximum of 2.6 feet per month. The general change in the rate of land
movement (velocity) slowed and varied from about -47% to -7% and averaged -27%. See the attached
spreadsheet “PB MOVEMENT DATA POSTING…M??. .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 are estimated at
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 Notes & Descriptions
See prior Reports for existing point descriptions. See the attached spreadsheet file “PB MOVEMENT DATA
POSTING…M??.” for California State Plane Coordinates Zone 5 in the NAD83 (2007) Epoch 2007.00 and elevations in
the NAVD88 Datum.
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A new reference point RP03 was set northeast of RP02 to allow for operating a second base station and for checking.
Point Description: Update of Set Points
RP03 Set 1/2”x 4’ rebar in open field, bears N69-30E 44.37’ from RP02
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 Sept. 25, 2024 at the request of Ramzi Awwad, Director of
Public Works for the City of Rancho Palos Verdes.
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