CONTRACT 6798B AmendmentAgreement No. 6798B
Agreement No.
SECOND AMENDMENT TO
AGREEMENT NO.6798
BETWEEN THE CITY OF EL SEGUNDO AND
DE NOVO PLANNING GROUP
This SECOND AMENDMENT to Agreement No. 6798 ("Agreement") is entered into this
121h day of September, 2024, by and between the CITY OF EL SEGUNDO, a municipal
corporation and general law city ("CITY") and CITY DE NOVO PLANNING GROUP, a California
corporation ("CONSULTANT").
1. Pursuant to Agreement Section 34 (Authority/Modification), Section 2 (Scope of
Services) is amended to augment the scope of services set forth of Exhibit "A," therein, to
include the additional work set forth in the proposal attached as Attachment 1 to this
Amendment. Such augmentation of Exhibit "A" will apply to references thereto throughout
the Agreement.
2. Pursuant to Agreement Section 34 (Authority/Modification), Subsection C of Section 1
(Consideration) is amended increase the not to exceed compensation by $22,570 to
increase the total compensation payable by CITY to CONSULTANT to a total not to
exceed sum of $42,730.
3. This Amendment may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which will
be an original, but all of which together constitutes one instrument executed on the same
date. In accordancewith GovernmentCode §16.5, the parties agree that this Amendment
will be considered signed when the signature of a party is delivered by electronic
transmission. Such electronic signature will be treated in all respects as having the same
effect as an original signature. CONSULTANT warrants that its signatory (or signatories,
as applicable) to this Amendment has the legal authority to enter this Amendment and
bind CONSULTANT accordingly.
4. Except as modified by this Amendment, all other terms and conditions of the
Agreement remain the same.
[Signatures on next page]
-1-
Agreement No. 6798B
Agreement No.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF the parties hereto have executed this contract the day
and year first hereinabove written.
CITY OF EL SEGUNDO,
a municipal corporation.
0& - ------------------ - -
Michael Allen
Community Development Director
ATTE _
Tracy Weaver,
City Clerk
DE NOVO PLANNING GROUP
A California Corporation
By: Steve McMurtry
Title: Principal
Taxpayer ID No. 29-2962235
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
MARK D. HENSLEY, City Attorney
By:
'�.d ---
Joaquin r,
ue, Assistant City Attorney
-2-
EXHIBIT A Agreement No. 6798B
} 1,a11 d 1)['I I, J)1)- 1J+ ,is,u ,.11 rlronulrli11) i i1 )l
August 9, 2024
City of El Segundo
Attention: Eduardo Schonborn, AICP
Planning Manager
350 Main Street
El Segundo, CA 900245
Via Email: eschonborn@elsegundo.org
SUBJECT: Revised Proposal for Third Party Peer Review of the Class 32 CEQA Exemption
Document for the Proposed Smoky Hollow South Building Project at 233 Kansas
Street
Dear Mr. Schonborm
On behalf of De Novo Planning Group, thank you for the opportunity to submit this revised
proposal to provide third -party peer review of the Class 32 CEQA Exemption document and
associated technical studies prepared by the Applicant Team. It is our understanding the Project
proposes an approximately 102,000-square-foot, three story office building and six level
parking structure on APN 4139-006-063 within the Smoky Hollow Specific Plan.
Based on our review of the Project materials, discussions with City staff, and our experience
providing peer review services and in preparing environmental compliance documents per the
requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), we are confident that we can
meet and exceed the expectations of the City in providing the requested services. Our team
understands that as Lead Agency, the City of El Segundo is responsible for approving the CEQA
document. As prime consultant, De Novo will prepare the peer review to ensure the Class 32
CEQA Exemption document and supporting technical studies considers recent CEQA legislation
and agency requirements.
Our team is led by Principal Planner, Starla Barker, AICP. Starla will be the primary document
reviewer, providing Principal -level attention to the Project. Starla will serve as the Project
Manager and primary point of contact for the City. Starla has an extensive history of managing
and preparing CEQA documents throughout southern California, including Class 32 Infill
Exemptions. Starla is supported by Senior Planner Josh Smith who will also review the air
quality assessment. Josh leads preparation of De Novo's technical studies, specializing in air
1S,ie 1 I0a111 ,lir>(�iiiJt9' .(1' i.iiri ('f� 9JY80
Agreement No. 6798B
Mr. Eduardo 5chonborn, AICP
August 9, 2024
Page 2
quality/greenhouse gas emissions modeling and management of CEQA documents. We are
supported by Kittelson and Associates who will review the transportation analysis, for
consistency with SB 743 requirements and the local transportation assessment, and by MD
Acoustics who will review the noise study.
We have prepared the following work plan in response to the City's request and our experience
providing peer review services for CEQA documents.
TASK 1.0: PROJECT INITIATION AND BACKGROUND REVIEW
The De Novo Project Manager will meet virtually with City staff to initiate the peer review work
program, including obtaining any background information relevant to the Project site and
surrounding area, as well as Project materials. The meeting will provide the opportunity to
discuss the proposed Project, peer review format, and schedule.
TASK 2.0: CLASS 32 INFILL EXEMPTION PEER REVIEW
The De Novo team will conduct a peer review of the applicant -prepared Class 32 CEQA
Exemption document and technical studies prepared to support the Class 32 CEQA Exemption.
A technical peer review of these studies for engineering purposes will not be conducted.
Our approach to conducting the peer review will involve the following considerations: 1)
compliance with the CEQA Guidelines; 2) technical accuracy of analysis in support of
conclusions and findings of significance; and 3) internal consistency of the document. CEQA and
technical specialists will conduct the review, with Ms. Barker serving as the primary CEQA
reviewer. Our review will result in a consolidated Peer Review Memorandum providing a
determination of compliance, along with any questions, comments, suggested edits or noted
issues or areas of deficiency in the document.
De Novo has teamed with Kittelson to provide peer review of the traffic impact study (TIS)
anticipated to be prepared by Fehr & Peers. Kittelson will peer -review the TIS to ensure that the
analysis is consistent with City of El Segundo methodologies and adequate for CEQA review.
The peer review will be conducted by a licensed traffic engineer in the State of California.
Currently, the level of VMT analysis is not currently known. For purposes of this scope of work,
it is assumed the TIS will provide an evaluation for screening -out of the VMT analysis. If it is
determined that the project does not meet the screening requirements, optional tasks have
been provided to include either review of the VMT analysis using the City of El Segundo Sketch
Planning Tool or VMT Analysis using SCAG Activity -Based Model (consistent with Fehr & Peers
scope of work dated February 3, 2023).
Agreement No. 6798B
Mr. Eduardo Schonborn, AICP
August 9, 2024
Page 3
Review of Methods and Assumptions and Local Transportation Assessment. Kittelson will
review and provide comments on the methodologies and assumptions utilized to prepare the
local transportation assessment, including the trip generation rates, thresholds of significance,
a review of the intersection operational analyses, and mitigation measures. The review of the
intersection analyses will be conducted for up to 8 intersections for existing and opening year
without/with project conditions. A technical memorandum will be provided with comments on
the traffic study identifying any issues and topics that would need to be clarified and revised.
VMT Screening Level Anal sis. The screening level VMT analysis is the first step of the VMT
analysis and will determine if additional VMT analyses may be needed. Kittelson will confirm
that the VMT screening -level analysis used appropriate methodologies to screen out VMT and
will summarize the findings in the technical memorandum. If needed, a second round of review
will be provided. If needed, the updated analysis will be reviewed to confirm comments from
the initial review have been adequately addressed.
De Novo has teamed with MD Acoustics (MD) to provide peer review services of the Noise
Study. MD will review the project description, approach, methodology, calculations and findings
and compare the results to the applicable City noise standards. Baseline noise readings and
field sheets will be reviewed to determine proper baseline reading protocols were followed.
Traffic noise calculations and modeling assumptions, including average daily traffic volumes,
speeds, vehicle mix, classifications and other metrics will be reviewed for accuracy. Traffic noise
projections will be verified and compared to the City's thresholds. Reference noise levels used
for stationary noise modeling and the noise modeling, approach and methodology used for the
on -site noise producing activities and equipment will be reviewed. The modeling approach will
be reviewed to ensure adequacy. A technical memorandum will be provided with comments on
the noise study identifying any issues and topics that would need to be clarified and revised.
An electronic version of the Peer Review Memorandum will be provided to the City for review
and transmission to the Applicant team.
Following revisions to the Class 32 CEQA Exemption document by the Applicant team, the De
Novo team will review the revised document and technical studies. We assume the revisions
will be provided in track changes or highlighted and be accompanied by a comment matrix. The
review will focus on ensuring the comments provided on the first review of the Class 32 CEQA
Exemption document have been adequately addressed and resolved. Our scope of work
assumes the project description will not have changed and that no new significant information
or technical analysis will be introduced that was not part of the initial draft.
Agreement No. 6798B
Mr. Eduardo Schonborn, AICP
August 9, 2024
Page 4
Deliverables:
• One (1) electronic Draft Peer Review Memorandum — Class 32 CEQA Exemption document
and Technical Studies
One (1) electronic Peer Review Memorandum confirming Class 32 CEQA Exemption
document peer review comments have been adequately addressed or identification of
outstanding issues.
TASK 3.0: MEETINGS AND HEARINGS
De Novo will participate in teleconference calls with City staff as needed. For budgeting
purposes, a maximum number of hours have been assumed for teleconference calls to discuss
the work program and progress, resolve any issues, and/or receive necessary direction from
City staff. We do not anticipate in -person meetings; however, we can accommodate an in -
person meeting if requested. In addition to teleconference calls, De Novo will prepare for and
attend one (1) public hearing.
We anticipate the De Novo Project Manager will be required for each meeting. We have not
budgeted for additional technical support from other members of our team, including our
subconsultants, to attend public hearings. Any additional technical support will be
accommodated as necessary at time and materials.
TASK 4.0: PROJECT MANAGEMENT/ADMINISTRATION
This task involves the time necessary for management and administration of the project,
including invoicing.
TASK 5.0: OPTIONAL TASKS — VMT EVALUATION
As noted above, if the Project is determined to be disqualified from map -based screening, a
detailed VMT analysis will be prepared by the Applicant team either using the City's Sketch
Planning Tool or the SCAG Activity -Based Model. The following tasks have been provided to
account for the review of either analysis options, if needed.
Task 5.1: Review of VMT Analysis Using Sketch Planning Tool
This level of review will be needed if a VMT Analysis is required utilizing the City of El Segundo
Sketch Planning Tool. Kittelson will review the applicability of the TREDLite tool, VMT
calculations, and effectiveness of the recommended TDM measures. The findings will be
summarized in the technical memorandum as part of Task 2.
Task 5.2: Review of VMT Analysis Using SCAG Activity -Based Model
This level of review will be needed if a VMT Analysis is required utilizing the SCAG Activity -
Based Model. Kittelson will review the assumptions included in the travel demand model, VMT
per service population, and City thresholds. The effectiveness of the recommended TDM
Agreement No. 6798B
Mr. Eduardo Schonborn, AICP
August 9, 2024
Page 5
measures will also be reviewed and the findings will be summarized in the technical
memorandum as part of Task 2.
ASSUMPTIONS
This proposal is based on the following assumptions. We propose to peer review the
environmental documents based on the body of statutes, guidelines, and case law that are in
affect at the time the contract is executed. Technical peer review of technical studies beyond
compliance and consistency with CEQA is excluded; the review will determine if the studies can
suitably be relied upon for use in the Class 32 CEQA Exemption document in accordance with
the requirements of CEQA. This scope excludes preparation of technical analysis by De Novo. All
peer review memorandums will be submitted electronically. The revisions to all products
requiring peer review will be done in track changes or highlighted and accompanied by a
comment matrix. Any additional work that is requested by the agency that is outside of the
scope of this proposal may require a contract amendment. Additional meetings not identified in
this proposal are outside of the scope, but can be accommodated on a time and materials basis.
STARLA BARKER, AICP
Project Manager / Principal Planner / Primary Point of Contact
Starla Barker, AICP, is a Principal Planner with De Novo Planning Group whose primary
responsibilities are the management and preparation of environmental documents (Initial
Studies, Negative Declaration, Environmental Impact Reports, and Environmental Assessments),
as well as other planning documents including General Plans and Specific Plans. With over 20
years of professional planning experience Starla has successfully managed a wide range of
projects with particular emphasis in General Plans, urban infill, downtown, and redevelopment
projects. Utilizing her experience in community planning, Starla is regularly involved in land use
and policy planning, including the development and implementation of community outreach
programs, and frequently manages and prepares environmental clearance documents for
citywide policy planning and redevelopment projects. Through her extensive experience in both
policy and environmental planning, Starla is keenly aware of the interaction between the two
and consistently takes a proactive and comprehensive approach to understanding planning and
environmental issues and developing solutions.
Agreement No. 6798B
Mr. Eduardo Schonborn, AICP
August 9, 2024
Page 6
JOSH SMITH, AICP, LEED AP
Senior Planner
Josh Smith, AICP, LEED AP, is a Senior Planner with De Novo Planning Group. He has over 12
years of experience and is responsible for the preparation of CEQA/NEPA documents (Initial
Studies, Negative Declaration, Environmental Impact Reports, and Environmental Assessments),
the development of air quality and greenhouse gas technical plans and reports, and climate
change planning for local governments. Josh has extensive experience with air quality,
greenhouse gas, and energy modeling, including criteria air pollutant and air dispersion
modeling. Josh also has substantial experience developing Climate Action Plans, Energy Action
Plans, and toxic air contaminant (TAC) Health Risk Assessments. He served as the primary
technical analyst on the Pleasanton, Oakdale, and Hughson Climate Action Plans, and has
managed EIRs such as the Manteca Annexation #1 EIR, Placer County RTP EIR, and Amador
County RTP EIR. Josh has additional expertise utilizing best -practice standards for developing
greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories and context -specific GHG mitigation measures, as well as
developing custom air pollutant emissions calculators for complex projects.
FERNANDO SOTELO, PE
Associate Engineer, Kittelson
Fernando Sotelo has extensive experience in CEQA and the technical aspects of transportation
planning, including travel demand forecasting, traffic impact analyses, and parking demand
studies. His professional experience with traffic and parking analyses includes several schools
and a variety of land development uses, such as warehousing, mixed use, commercial, and
recreation projects in southern and northern California. Fernando understands the complexities
of transportation planning and has prepared transportation sections for EIRs for major projects
such as general plan updates and specific plans. He focuses particular attention on issues such
as vehicular circulation, site access, queuing, and pedestrian routes to school and safety. In
addition to his experience in traffic, Fernando has prepared hundreds of technical studies for
noise and air quality analyses on a variety of projects.
MIKE DICKERSON JR., INCE
Principal, MD Acoustics
Mike has a passion for the science of sound and vibration and has worked professionally in
acoustical engineering since 2002. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Physics,
emphasizing in acoustics from Brigham Young University in Utah. He is currently a member of
the Institute of Noise Control Engineers (INCE). Motivated by professional growth and
opportunity, Mr. Dickerson formed his own acoustical engineering firm, MD Acoustics in 2012.
Agreement No. 6798B
Mr. Eduardo Schonborn, AICP
August 9, 2024
Page 7
Mr. Dickerson's versatile experience includes leading and assisting in the design and review of
many facets of acoustical engineering and air quality projects, including but not limited to
air/noise assessments, ceiling/floor assembly design, architectural design, acoustical product
design, vibration analysis and noise mitigation strategies. Prior to starting his own consulting
firm, Mr. Dickerson worked for Sony Entertainment, Parsons, and RK Engineering. He has
successfully completed over 2,200 acoustical/air quality assessment reports for various
engineering companies, municipalities, and other agencies (both public and private). His
strategic project planning and cost-effective management solutions enabled him to excel in the
field of Acoustics and project management.
6!m
The De Novo team will conduct the peer review of the Class 32 CEQA Exemption document and
technical studies and deliver the Peer Review Memorandum within three (3) weeks of the
Project initiation. It is assumed that electronic files of the Class 32 CEQA Exemption document
and all technical studies, including appendices with modeling outputs will be provided at this
time.
Within one (1) week of receiving the revised Class 32 CECIA Exemption document and technical
studies with revisions in track changes or highlighted and/or a response matrix, De Novo will
review and provide confirmation that all comments have been adequately addressed (as
appropriate).
FEE
The fee to provide the requested services is provided on the following page.
We appreciate the City contacting us regarding this work program. Should you need anything
else, please do not hesitate to contact me at (949) 396-8193 or sbarker@denovoplanning.com.
Sincerely,
DE NOVO PLANNING GROUP
Starla Barker, AICP, Principal Planner
Agreement No. 6798B
M
M
N
a
N
N
r
N
cn
••1
ffn
Ln
V}
-4
m
G
(CO
L
a
u
O
_
c
N
O
OLn Ln
Ol
VC
-0
Op0
N
C 10
1 d s
to
Y
?
O
N
O
N
1
OJ
0
O t
en
4
Q
up
Q u
—
ra
Z
>
O
C
0
0
0
0
O1
O
n
n
N
I�
yLi
N
l0
4S7
r-I
r-I
N
VT
V?
v
y O
a
Q
Y C
�
a
H
0
O
O
O
O
C:)
C:,Y
N
V
M
M
M
0M
M
«
in
Vn
00
V}
V?
Y
Ol
LL
VT
',, V)
00
W
OJ
o r
V'
v
O'..
N
l0
O
V
O
N
N
Q
Z
m
Ln
u
c
C O
ro
L
�/1
O1
in
O
�n
V/'�
�n
E
O
00
v
E
N
tn
ri
C VT
E
07
f0
Y
`
O
ry
ry
t0
n
� p
7
�
L
C
O
C)o�
0
0
C)u
m
00
o
M
m
m
N
O
`
N Ln
O
d 00
C OD a-i
C C VT
N
to
)
�
ar
a V
U W
,. N
V
N
co
V
00
M
N
N
ar
?�
y
N
a CE o
L
N
to
J
7
Q
�
~
O
d v
a
a
Z Y
m
7
2
Y U
ro O
-0
E
O
O
01
O
E0
c O
�
C
�p Y
3
C
v m
v
—
a
a
E saj
v
-
o
u
U
v Y
_
>
Y
"n
Ln
v
z
=
Y i
a
C
�
\N
x
toa
E
v v
Ln
u
C
D
U
FCos
m
v Q
c
v
as
m
¢
O
x
w
=
m
t0
•
r
F
c
M m
Y1
=
C
C
Y
Y C
in
C
C
IA
F
>
>rn
C C
Y �
Q
ry
t0
O
O
v
'�
a
u
a
a�i
a�i
nr
W O O
F Z
a
s'I
o
o
-1
o v
a;
14
M
<f
C1
va
"i
Z of C)