HomeMy WebLinkAboutReso 98-20 Accepting Morro Bay EMP Annex L 10.27.20RESOLUTION NO. 98-20
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF MORRO BAY, CALIFORNIA,
ADOPTING THE COUNTY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO MULTI -JURISDICTIONAL
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLAN UPDATE 2019
THE CITY COUNCIL
City of Morro Bay, California
WHEREAS, the City of Morro Bay recognizes the threat that natural hazards pose to people
within our community; and
WHEREAS, undertaking hazards mitigation actions will reduce the potential for harm to people
and property for future hazard occurrences; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the Federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000,the City of Morro Bay has
prepared and updated 2019 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan to identify the risks to lives and property
created by natural and artificial hazards to the City, and to formulate a set of goals, objectives and
actions to mitigate risks created by these hazards; and
WHEREAS, an adopted Local Hazard Mitigation Plan is required as a condition of future funding
for mitigation projects under multiple Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) pre -and post -
disaster mitigation grant programs; and
WHEREAS, the City of Morro Bay, in coordination with the County Of San Luis Obispo, all local
municipalities, community service districts, and local sanitation district's participated in the FEMA-
prescribed mitigation planning process to prepare a Multi -Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan; and
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Morro Bay, California,
that the City of Morro Bay hereby adopts the attached revised San Luis Obispo County Multi -
Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan, and the attached local Hazard Mitigation Plan for the City of
Morro Bay as outlined in Annex D; and the City Of Morro Bay will submit this adoption resolution to the
California Office of Emergency Services and FEMA Region IX officials to enable the plan's final
approval in accordance with the requirements of the disaster Mitigation Act 2000 and to establish
conformance with requirements of Government Code Sections 8685.9 and 65302.6.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Morro Bay, at a regular meeting
thereof held on the 10th day of November 2020 by the following vote:
AYES' Headding, Addis, Davis, Heller, McPherson
NOES' None
ABSENT: None
JO'T N ' = DI --Mayor
ATTEST:
ANA SC/VANSON, City Clerk
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
D.1 Community Profile
D.1.1 Mitigation Planning History and 2019 Process
This Annex was created during the development of the 2019 San Luis Obispo County Hazard Mitigation Plan
Update. This Jurisdictional Annex builds upon the previous version of the City of Paso Robles Local Hazard
Mitigation Plan completed in February 2006; that previous mitigation plan was not incorporated into the City's
General Plan, as this updated mitigation plan will be. A planned review of the City's regulations and procedure to
ensure they reflect the goals established in the 2006 plan did not take place, but will be conducted following the
adoption of this updated plan. The Fire Department's staff represented the City of Morro Bay on the County
HMPC and took the lead for developing the plan and this annex in coordination with the Morro Bay Local
Planning Team (Planning Team). A review of jurisdictional priorities found no significant changes in priorities
since the last update.
The Local Planning Team will be responsible for implementation and maintenance of the plan. Table D.1
summarizes the City's planning team for the plan revision process.
Table D.1
Morro Bay Hazard Mitigation Plan Revision Planning Group
Department or Stakeholder
Fire Department
Public Works
Police Department
Harbor Department
Community Development
Fire Chief
City Engineer
Police Chief
Harbor Director
Comm/Dev Director
More details on the planning process followed and how the jurisdictions, service districts and stakeholders
participated can be found in Chapter 3 of the Base Plan (Planning Process), as well as how the public was
involved during the 2019 update.
D.1.2 Geography and Climate
The City of Morro Bay (City) is located on the central coast of California, bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the
west, the Los Osos Community Services District to the south, and the Cayucos Community Services District to the
north. A shallow agricultural valley extends eastward from the City limits, which is surrounded by the Santa Lucia
Coastal Range to the north, the Seven Sisters on the south, and the City of San Luis Obispo to the east. The City's
topography varies from level coastal terrain to rolling hills and a few steeper escarpments in the North
Atascadero Beach area and Southern portions on Black Mountain. The City's elevations range from sea level to a
height of approximately 640 feet on Black Mountain. The highest elevations in the vicinity are located in the
Santa Lucia Coastal Range where many peaks are 2,000 to 3,400 feet above mean sea level (MSL). The vegetation
throughout the City includes Central California Coastal Community habitats, particularly the coastal wetland
habitat with diverse tree species and native chaparral communities.
The City of Morro Bay is a small coastal town in a rural setting. Morro Bay's harbor provides a port of refuge, a
working waterfront, commercial fishing and recreational boating facilities, shopping and sightseeing bird
watching, and eco-tourism. In 1994, the Governor established Morro Bay as California's first State Estuary, and in
October 1995 it was accepted into the National Estuary Program (NEP).
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
This portion of the central coast of California generally has cool, foggy summers and low rainfall. The Pacific
Ocean exerts a tremendous influence on temperature. The area is characterized by a Coastal climate with a wet
season from October to early April. In the City of Morro Bay, the total annual precipitation is approximately 20 to
25 inches. In winter, the average high temperatures range from the 50's to the 60's, with lows seldom reaching
into the 30's. In summer, the average daily highs are in the 60's and 70's, while lows are typically in the 50's and
60's.
Figure D.1 below shows the location and geographic context of the City of Morro Bay.
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.2
• • •
Figure D.1
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
The City of Morro Bay
PACIFIC OCEAN
Counties
a� •� Sphere of Influence
0Land Stewardship
State
US Forest Service
Map compiled 52019,
intended for planning purposes only.
Data Source: San Luis Obispo County, US Census
TIGER Database, CA Open Data Portal,
BLM/California State Office, LAFCO, HIFLD
0
l
1
2 Miles
i i 1
Ct'
fe •t lorrj
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay 1 February 2020
Annex D.3
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
The City of Morro Bay 's existing Sphere of Influence is approximately 100+/- acres beyond the City limits and
includes two general areas, one within the bay south of town adjacent to the marina and the other north of town
along the beach (City of Morro Bay, 2017).
D.1. 3 History
The City of Morro Bay is a srnall coastal town in a rural setting. What makes Morro Bay unique is an image
reminiscent of California fishing ports in the 1950's and 1960's, a fishing village nestled in a rural setting around
a bay and harbor with Morro Rock towering over the entrance. Morro Bay's harbor provides a port of refuge, a
working waterfront, commercial fishing and recreational boating facilities, shopping and sightseeing, bird
watching, and eco-tourism, all of which make it a unique tourist and recreation destination.
Archaeological evidence suggests that Native Americans including the Chumash and Salinan Tribes settled in
northern Santa Barbara County and San Luis Obispo County more than 9,000 years ago (City of Morro Bay Local
Hazard Mitigation Plan, 2012). Following an annual cycle of hunting, fishing, fowling, and harvesting, the Native
American peoples adapted to changing environmental conditions and grew into a large, complex society. In
1542, Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, a Portuguese navigator, sailed into the bay named "Los Esteros." He is
acknowledged as the first European to discover the land of Upper California, including the area now known as
Estero Bay and Morro Bay. In 1870, the township of Morro Bay was established with a population of
approximately 200.
Until the Second World War, the area was relatively undeveloped. Most of the small community of Morro Bay
was built on the bluff tops. In 1942, the Department of the Navy initiated a national defense project to construct
an amphibious training base in Morro Bay. From 1942 to 1944, the north and south breakwaters, the two T-Piers,
and the inner harbor revetment from Coleman Beach to the sandspit were constructed. In addition, the federal
government dredged the current Navy and Morro Channels and deposited the dredge spoils behind the inner
harbor revetment to create the current Embarcadero Road area on what had previously been tidal flats.
In 1994, the Governor established Morro Bay as California's first State Estuary. In October 1995 Morro Bay was
accepted into the National Estuary Program (NEP) primarily because of Tong -term grass -roots efforts and
because it was the first ever State Estuary. The Morro Bay National Estuary Program (MBNEP) is one of 28
national programs currently working to safeguard the health of some of the nation's most important coastal
areas. Like the NEP, the City of Morro Bay desires to protect and conserve the bay that bears its name.
D.1.4 Economy
In 2014, 80.4% of the 4,342 employed residents of Morro Bay were employed outside of the City limits (Morro
Bay Economic Development Roadmap, 2017). Morro Bay is a largely built -out community with limited space for
residential, commercial, and industrial growth; only 1.25% of the area is considered undeveloped, which limits
the City's potential economic growth. Morro Bay contains four economic activity centers: Downtown,
Embarcadero, Quintana, and North Main. Each of these economic centers have the opportunity for renovation
and enhancement of space and development. Since Dynegy decommissioned their natural gas -burning power
plant facility in 2015, the City's economic base has been driven mainly by commercial fishing and tourism.
The utilities infrastructure in the City includes water provision, and wastewater collection and treatment (City of
Morro Bay Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, 2012). The public services infrastructure in the City include fire
protection and emergency services, police protection public schools, libraries, the harbor and its associated
infrastructure, and solid waste collection and disposal.
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.4
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
Select estimates of economic characteristics for the City of Morro Bay are shown in Table D.2 below. Table D.3
and Table D.4 show the occupational and industry breakdown of the City of Morro Bay's labor force based on
estimates from the 2013-2017 American Community Survey.
Table D.2
City of Morro Bay Economic Characteristics
Characteristic
City of Morro Bay
Population Estimates (as of 2018)
10,581
Population Percent Change (2010-2018 estimates)
Persons under 5 Years, Percent
Persons over 65 Years, Percent
Foreign born Person, Percent (2013-2017)
Median Gross Rent (2013-2017)
3.4%
3.8%
27.7%
10.5%
Median value of owner -occupied housing units (2013-2017)
High School Graduate or Higher, Percent (2013-2017)
Mean Travel to Work in Minutes) (2013-2017)
Median Household Income (in 2017 dollars, for 2013-2017)
Persons in Poverty, Percent
$1,387
$535,300
91.4%
21.8
$61,690
10.1%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2018 - https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/morrobaycitycalifornia
Table D.3
City of Morro Bay Employment by Occupation
Occupation
Sales and Office Occupations
Management, Business, Science, and Arts Occupations
Service Occupations
Production, Transportation, and Material Moving Occupations
Natural Resources, Construction, and Maintenance Occupations
% Employed
22.6%
38.6%
18.7%
10.8%
9.3%
Total
Source: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2013-2017, 5-Year Estimates www.census.gov
# Employed
1,048
1,792
869
501
433
4,643
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.5
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
Table D.4
City of Morro Bay Employment by Industry
Industry
Educational
% Employed
# Employed
Services,
and
Health
Care
and
Social
Assistance
25.6%
1,187
Retail
Trade
13.1%
610
Professional,
Scientific,
and
Mgmt.,
and
Administrative
and
Waste
Mgmt.
Services
13.6%
631
Manufacturing
4.5%
208
Arts,
Entertainment,
and
Recreation,
and
Accommodation,
and
Food
Services
13.5%
626
Construction
8.1%
377
Finance
and
Insurance,
and
Real
Estate
and
Rental
and
Leasing
3.7%
171
Public
Administration
3.2%
150
Other
Services,
Except
Public
Administration
5.8%
268
Wholesale
Trade
2.0%
94
Transportation
and
Warehousing,
and
Utilities
3.8%
175
Agriculture,
Forestry,
Fishing
and
Hunting,
and
Mining
1.0%
48
Information
2.1%
98
Total
4,643
Source: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2013-2017, 5-Year Estimates www.census.gov
D.1.5 Population
In May 2019, the State Department of Finance released preliminary population data for the State to reflect
wildfire -driven changes to local populations. According to the report, the City of Morro Bay had a population of
10,439 persons as of January 2019, which accounts for approximately 26.9% of the County's population. This is
slightly less than accounted for in the 2018 U.S. Census Bureau estimates from 2018, possibly due to small
migration amounts following the 2018 fires. Table D.5 below summarizes a few key population characteristics for
the City of Morro Bay.
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay 1 February 2020
Annex D.6
•
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
Table D.5
City of Morro Bay Demographic and Social Characteristics
Characteristic
Gender/Age
Male
Female
Median age
Under 5 years
Under 18 years
65 years and over
White
Asian
Black or African American
City of Morro Bay
5,228
5,340,
49.4
400
1,508
2,929
Race/Ethnicity
American Indian/Alaska Native
9,620
317
Hispanic or Latino (of any race)
140
82
1,362
Education
High school graduate or higher I 7,472
Disability Status
Population with a disability
1,334
Source: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2013-2017 5-Year Estimates, www.census.gov
D.1.6 Development Trends
Measure F, a voter initiative imposing a hard population cap of 12,200 to preserve Morrow Bay's small coastal
town character passed in 1984 (City of Morro Bay Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, 2012). Measure F estimated a
population of 12,200 would be reached by the year 2000. In actuality, the population of Morro Bay has not
reached said predictions and is currently approximated at 10,439 despite the addition of hundreds of housing
units in Morro Bay during the period since passage of Measure F.
Despite the addition of many housing units and the lack of significant population pressure, housing prices in
Morro Bay increased from $146,000 for a median priced home in 1996 to a median price of over $600,000 back
in 2006. The median housing cost decreased in 2017 to approximately $535,300, based on the U.S. Census
Bureau estimates. Increased prices and decreased building opportunities has resulted in impacts to the cost of
housing in the City. There are few vacant parcels within the City's boundaries and due to the community's
strong feelings toward the preservation of a small population size it is projected that future development will be
infill and revitalization of existing parcels.
D.2 Hazard Identification and Summary
Morro Bay's planning team identified the hazards that affect the City and summarized their frequency of
occurrence, spatial extent, potential magnitude, and significance specific to Morro Bay (Table D.6). There are no
hazards that are unique to Morro Bay. The overall hazard significance considers the geographic area, probability
and magnitude as a way to identify priority hazards for mitigation purposes. This is discussed further in the
sections below.
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay 1 February 2020
Annex D.7
• • •
Table D.6
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
City of Morro Bay - Hazard Summaries
Adverse Weather: Thunderstorm/Heavy
Rain/Hail/Lightning/Dense Fog/Freeze
Adverse Weather: High Wind/Tornado
Adverse Weather: Extreme Heat
Coastal Storm/Coastal Erosion/Sea Level
Rise
Earthquake and Liquefaction
Flood
Hazardous Trees
Landslides and Debris Flow
Tsunami and Seiche
Wildfire
Human Caused: Hazardous Materials
Geographic Area
Limited: Less than 10% of planning area
Significant: 10-50% of planning area
Extensive: 50-100% of planning area
Geographic
Area
Extensive
Significant
Significant
Extensive
Significant
Extensive
Extensive
Limited
Extensive
Extensive
Limited
Probability of Future Occurrences
Highly Likely: Near 100% chance of occurrence in next
year or happens every year.
Likely: Between 10 and 100% chance of occurrence in next
year or has a recurrence interval of 10 years or Tess.
Occasional: Between 1 and 10% chance of occurrence in
the next year or has a recurrence interval of 11 to 100
years.
Unlikely: Less than 1% chance of occurrence in next 100
years or has a recurrence interval of greater than every
100 years.
Probability of
Future
Occurrence
Highly Likely
Highly Likely
Highly Likely
Likely
Occasional
Highly Likely
Highly Likely
Occasional
Occasional
Highly Likely
Occasional
Magnitude/
Severity
(Extent)
Limited
Limited
Limited
Critical
Catastrophic
Critical
Limited
Limited
Catastrophic
Catastrophic
Negligible
Overall
Significance
High
Medium
Medium
High
High
High
High
Medium
High
High
Medium
Magnitude/Severity (Extent)
Catastrophic —More than 50 percent of property
severely damaged; shutdown of facilities for more
than 30 days; and/or multiple deaths
Critical-25-50 percent of property severely
damaged; shutdown of facilities for at least two
weeks; and/or injuries and/or illnesses result in
permanent disability
Limited-10-25 percent of property severely
damaged; shutdown of facilities for more than a
week; and/or injuries/illnesses treatable do not result
in permanent disability
Negligible Less than 10 percent of property severely
damaged, shutdown of facilities and services for less
than 24 hours; and/or injuries/illnesses treatable with
first aid
Significance
Low: minimal potential impact
Medium: moderate potential impact
High: widespread potential impact
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.8
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
D.3 Vulnerability and Resilience Assessment
The intent of this section is to assess the City of Morro Bay's vulnerability separately from that of the County,
which has already been assessed in Section 5 Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (HIRA) in the Base Plan.
This vulnerability assessment analyzes the population, property, and other assets (e.g. critical facilities) at risk to
hazards ranked of medium or high significance that may vary from other parts of the planning area.
The key information to support the HIRA for this Annex was collected through a Data Collection Guide, which
was distributed to each participating municipality, community services district, or special district to complete
during the planning process. Information collected was analyzed and summarized in order to identify and rank
all the hazards that could impact anywhere within the County, as well as to rank the hazards and identify the
related vulnerabilities unique to each jurisdiction/district. In addition, the Morro Bay planning team was asked to
share information on past hazard events that have affected the district.
In addition, the Morro Bay planning team provided information from the Morro Bay Community Vulnerablity
and Reslience Assessment Plan created in 2017 and Sea level rise Adaptation Strategy Report from 2019.
Each participating jurisdiction or district was in support of the main hazard summary identified in the Base Plan
(See Table 5.1). However, the hazard summary rankings for each jurisdictional annex may vary slightly due to
specific hazard risk and vulnerabilities unique to that jurisdiction (see Table D.6). Identifying these differences
helps the reader to differentiate the district's risk and vulnerabilities from that of the overall County.
Note: The hazard "Significance" reflects overall ranking for each hazard and is based on the Morro Bay planning
team input from the Data Collection Guide and the risk assessment developed during the planning process (see
Chapter 5 of the Base Plan), which included more detailed quantitative and qualitative analyses with best
available data for all hazards in the County.
The hazard summaries in Table D.6 reflect the hazards that could potentially affect the district in major ways.
Based on this analysis, the priority hazards are listed below. The discussion of vulnerability for each of the
assessed hazards is in contained in the following sections. Hazards of Medium or High significance for Morro
Bay are summarized below.
• Adverse Weather
• Earthquake and Liquefaction
• Flood
• Landslides and Debris Flow
• Coastal Storm/Coastal Erosion/Sea Level Rise
• Tsunami and Seiche
• Wildfire
• Human Caused: Hazardous Materials
Other Hazards
Hazards assigned a significance rating of Low may not be assessed at all within this annex. However, based on
quantitative or historic occurrence proof of posing a risk to the community, certain hazards will be addressed for
specific vulnerabilities in this annex (though perhaps in a limited capacity due to the Planning Team assigning a
lower priority to said hazards). The hazards to the planning area which were rated by the Planning Committee
are listed below. The majority were given minimum priority due to a lack of exposure, vulnerability, and/or no
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.9
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
probability of occurrence or previous history or losses, though some will still contain a loss estimate discussion
based again on potential risk to the district (if noted).
• Agricultural Pests and Plant Diseases
• Dam Incidents
• Drought and Water Shortage
• Land Subsidence
D.3.1 Assets at Risk
This section considers Morro Bay's assets at risk, including values at risk, critical facilities and infrastructure,
historic assets, economic assets, and growth and development trends.
Values at Risk
Parcel geometry data was provided by ParcelQuest, a third -party service working alongside the San Luis Obispo
County Assessor's Office to compile property information. The overall parcel data provided the baseline for an
inventory of the total exposure of developed parcels within the County and helps to ensure that the updated
Plan reflects changes in development. This data should only be used as a guideline to overall values in the City
as the information has some limitations. It is also important to note that in the event of a disaster, it is generally
the value of the infrastructure improvements that is of concern or at risk generally, the land itself is not a loss.
Table D.7 shows the exposure of properties (e.g., the values at risk based on improvement values, content values,
and total values which are calculated by adding improvement and content values), broken down by parcel type
for the City of Morro Bay
Table D.7
Parcel Exposure Values for the City of Morro Bay, by Parcel Types
Property Type
Agricultural
Commercial
Parcel
Count
Improved Value
2
Government/Utilities
251
Other/Exempt/Misc.
Residential
Multi -Family Residential
Mobile/Manufactured
Homes
Residential: Other
Industrial
Vacant
Total
80
131
4,060
568
16
164
8
$1,516,052
$71,138,657
$374,774
$19,391,746
$799,126,269
$127,309,679
$2,971,790
$84,847, 578
$757,564
41
5,320
$7,604,763
$1,113,527,653
Content Value
$1,516,052
$71,138,657
$399,563,135
$63,654,840
$1,485,895
$42,423,789
$1,136,346
$579,407,494
Total Value
$1,516,052
$142,277,314
$374,774
$19,391,746
$1,198,689,404
$190,964,519
$4,457,685
$127,271,367
$1,893,910
$7,604,763
$1,692,935,147
Source: Wood Plc analysis based on ParcelQuest and San Luis Obispo County Assessor's Office data 2019
Critical Facilities and Infrastructure
A critical facility may be defined as one that is essential in providing utility or direction either during the
response to an emergency or during the recovery operation.
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.10
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
An inventory of critical facilities in the District based on San Luis Obispo County GIS data as well as structures
obtained from the Homeland Infrastructure Foundation -Level Dataset (HIFLD) is provided in Table D.8 as well as
illustrated in Figure D.2. The four types of Critical Facilities categorized by San Luis Obispo County and its
jurisdictions' and districts' planning teams are: Emergency Services, High Potential Loss Facilities, Lifeline Utility
Systems, and Transportation Systems. Refer to Section 5.2 of the Base Plan for more information on the Assets
used throughout this annex, including the definitions and categories of critical facilities, and the County -wide
analyses.
Table D.8 City of Morro Bay's Critical Facilities
Facility Category
Emergency Services
High Potential Loss Facilities
Lifeline Utility Systems
Facility Type
Day Care Facilities
Emergency Medical Service Stations
Fire Stations
Local Law Enforcement
Nursing Homes
Public Schools
Power Plants
Microwave Service Towers
Wastewater Treatment Plants
Energy Commission Facilities
Total
Source: San Luis Obispo County Planning and Building; LAFCO; HIFLD; Wood Plc analysis
Counts
4
2
1
2
2
1
1
1
18
Table D.9
Details on the City of Morro Bay's Critical Facilities
Facility Type
Day Care Facilities
EMS Stations
Fire Stations
Local Law Enforcement
Microwave Service Towers
Nursing Homes
Public Schools
Wastewater Treatment Plant
Power Plants
Energy Commission Facilities
Total
Name
California State Preschool at Del Mar
Capslo - Sequoia Child Development Center
Central Coast Montessori
Morro Bay United Methodist Children's Center
Morro Bay Fire Department Station 1
Morro Bay Fire Department Station 2
Morro Bay Fire Department Station 1
Morro Bay Fire Department Station 2
Morro Bay Police Department
Casa De Flores/ Bay Side Care Center
Garden House
Del Mar Elementary
Morro Bay High School
Morro Bay Wastewater Treatment Plant
Vistra, Inc.
Morro Bay PG&E
21
Source: San Luis Obispo County Planning and Building; LAFCO; HIFLD
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.11
• • •
Figure D.2
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
Critical Facilities in the City of Morro Bay
PACIFIC OCEAN
Local Roads
Highway
Freeway
Waterways
Morro Bay
Land Stewardship
State
US Forest Service
Critical Facilities
® Emergency Services
o High Potential Loss Facilities
Lifeline Utility Systems
o Transportation Systems
Map compiled 5/2019,
Intended for planning purposes only.
Data Source. San Luis Obispo County, US Census
TIGER Database, CA Open Data Portal,
BLM/California State Office, LAFCO, HIFLD
0
1
1
1
1
Q,a �•'b�. i lnrl d
2 Miles
1
1
N
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay 1 February 2020
Annex D.12
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
High Potential Loss Facilities
High potential loss facilities are considered critical facilities that present significant risks if damaged and include
nuclear power plants, dams, and military installations. The City has one classified high potential loss facility:
Dynergy's Morro Bay Power Plant.
Transportation Systems
The City of Morro Bay contains portions of Highway 41 and Highway 1, which are main sources of transportation
access for the City and region. However, no critical facilities classified as part of essential/critical transportation
systems were noted.
Lifeline Facilities
Lifeline Utility Systems include 2 Microwave Service Towers, 1 Wastewater Treatment Plant, and 1 Energy
Commission Facilities for a total of 4 lifeline utility critical facilities.
Emergency Service Facilities
The City contains 13 Emergency Services facilities aimed at providing for the health and welfare of the entire
community. These include day care facilities, emergency medical service stations, fire stations, local law
enforcement stations, nursing homes, and schools as noted in Table D.8 and Table D.9.
Additional Critical Facilities
Additional Essential Infrastructures and Vulnerable Facilities to the district were noted by the Planning Team,
which may or may not have been noted in the previous lists and tables. The 10 are summarized below along
with their estimated replacement values (per the planning team input):
• City Hall - $3.1 million
• Police Station - $7.3 million
• Fire Station - $11.8 million
• Water Treatment Plant - $7.3 million
• Wastewater Treatment Plant - $129 million
• Community Center - $11 7 million
• Corporate Yard - $3.9 million
• Harbor Department - $1.1 million
• Public Works - $2 6 million
• Veterans Hall - $3.5 million
Historic and Cultural Resources
One of the most visually prominent historic natural landmarks immediately vulnerable to coastal hazards and sea
level rise is Morro Rock. Morro Rock stands approximately 576 feet tall and was created from a volcanic plug.
The area is a significant cultural and religious monument, as it was once the site of Chumash sacred rituals (City
of Morro Bay 2018). Morro Rock is a protected State Historic Landmark (#821) that also provides nesting habitat
for peregrine falcons, a previously endangered and currently fully protected species (Department of Fish and
Wildlife 2019).
The City of Morro Bay has no registered federal historic sites; however, the State registered historical site, Morro
Rock, is within the City Limits (State of California Office of Historic Preservation, 2019). Other historical sites of
importance to the County of San Luis Obispo in Morro Bay are listed below.
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.13
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
• Filipino Landing - Coleman Park
• Morro Bay State Park - 20 State Park Road
• Morro Rock - Coleman Drive
Natural Resources
Natural resources are important to include in benefit -cost analyses for future projects and may be used to
leverage additional funding for projects that also contribute to community goals for protecting sensitive natural
resources. Awareness of natural assets can lead to opportunities for meeting multiple objectives. For instance,
the Morro Bay coast is fronted by large sand dunes from Atascadero State Beach and continuing south through
much of Montana de Oro State Park that provide protection for developments located on terrace materials
behind the sand dunes. The beach has widened about 250 feet near San Jacinto Avenue and almost 500 feet in
front of Morro Bay High School in the past 50 years. This sandbar protects development in this region.
One of the most visually prominent historic natural landmarks immediately vulnerable to coastal hazards and sea
level rise is Morro Rock. Morro Rock is a protected State Historic Landmark as mentioned above that also
provides nesting habitat for peregrine falcons, a previously endangered and currently fully protected species.
D.3.2 Estimating Potential Losses
This section details vulnerability to specific hazards of medium or high significance, where quantifiable, noted by
the Planning Team, and/or where it differs significantly from that of the overall County. Impacts of past events
and vulnerability to specific hazards are further discussed below, though refer to Section 5 of the Base Plan for
more details on the County's HIRA findings and hazard profiles.
Adverse Weather
Heavy rains and adverse storms occur in Morro Bay primarily during the late fall and winter but have a chance of
occurring in every month of the year. According to information obtained from the Western Regional Climate
Center (WRCC) the majority of precipitation is produced by storms during January and other winter months.
Precipitation during the summer months is in the form of rain showers and is rare. Snowstorms, and hailstorms
occur infrequently in San Luis Obispo County, and severe occurrences of any of these are very rare. Dense fog in
Morro Bay reduces visibility making driving more dangerous during fog events. A fog advisory issued for San
Luis Obispo County in October 2011 warned visibility could be as low as a quarter mile and reduce suddenly
with denser patches. In March 2012 another fog advisory anticipated less than 1/4 of normal visibility. Freeze
events are a hazard to human populations as well as economic production. For example, historical records
indicate in 1998 a winter cold air mass resulted in $5.4 million in crop damage harming agricultural interests in
the City.
Of specific concern for Morro Bay is the combination of high winds, winter storms and the resultant high surf.
Coastal communities in the County face increased hazards to high wind and extreme wind storms. The surfing
industry of Morro Bay, which attracts visitors and tourists, could be at risk due to the hazard to human safety in
the event of increasing unsafe wind events.
The climate of the County is influenced by the effects of the Santa Lucia Range, the Pacific Ocean, and routine
climate patterns such as El Nino. Extreme heat events can have severe impacts on human health and mortality,
natural ecosystems, the agriculture sector and other economic sectors. Coastal communities including Morro
Bay on average have lower temperatures compared to communities in inland areas of the County and may be
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay ( February 2020
Annex D.14
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
less at risk to extreme temperatures, although they may be potentially less acclimatized to high temperatures if
the event of occurrence.
Loss of life is uncommon but could occur during severe storms depending on secondary effects or impacts.
Immobility can occur when roads become impassable due to dense fog, heavy rains causing flooding, and even
downed trees (often referred to as hazardous trees due to the threat they pose). Overall, the Morro Bay planning
team has rated adverse weather hazards as holding High Significance.
Earthquake and Liquefaction
The greatest threat to Morro Bay from a natural hazard is considered to be a significant earthquake (City of
Morro Bay, 2012; City Planning Team). The northwest trending Cambria Fault zone is within the City limits of
Morro Bay (US Quaternary Fault 2019). Within the surrounding area, the East Hausna, La Panza, Los Osos, Edna
Nacimiento, Rinconada, San Andres, and San Simeon- Hosgri Faults are considered to pose a potential hazard to
the City in catastrophic and cascading effects (City of Morro Bay 2012) Earthquake -event associated impacts
have occurred in Morro Bay in the past including a number of magnitude 5.0 to 7.7 earthquakes. The City's
residential area consists predominantly of framed -type structures, which contain some material flexibility
allowing the structures to withstand larger seismicity impacts in earthquake events than masonry buildings.
Structure's weak areas are between sill plates and the foundation especially in homes constructed prior to 1950.
In any earthquake, the primary consideration is saving lives. Time and effort must also be dedicated to providing
for mental health by reuniting families, providing shelter to displaced persons, and restoring basic needs and
services. Major efforts will be required to remove debris and clear roadways, demolish unsafe structures, assist in
reestablishing public services and utilities, and provide continuing care and temporary housing for affected
citizens.
In addition to being at risk of groundshaking as a result of a fault rupture, the City of Morro Bay is also
susceptible to the effects of liquefaction. Much of the City has soils with a moderate risk for liquefaction. A
majority of the City is underlain by beach and sand dune sediments and alluvial soils. Areas along the
Embarcadero are known to have been filled in over the years with a variety of fill materials, and when combined
with the high-water table in the area, these areas are of some concern. The number of active or potentially active
fault systems throughout the County and historical records of past earthquakes in the area caused a probability
of earthquake -related damage to the City of Morro Bay as medium. Table D.10 below summarizes the parcels at
risk of liquefaction (moderate and high risk), broken up by parcel type, while Figure D.3 displays the City's
liquefaction zones as a map. Overall, the City has over $488 million of parcel improved values at risk from both
risk categories, and a total of 4,193 exposed parcels.
A total of 17 critical facilities are found in either moderate or high -risk liquefaction zones in the City. These are
listed in Table D.11 by facility type.
Earthquake and liquefaction hazards pose a High Significance for the City of Morro Bay.
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.15
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
Table D.10
City of Morro Bay Liquefaction Risk by Parcel Type
Parcel Type
Agricultural
Commercial
Government/Utilities
Other/Exempt/Miscellaneous
Residential
Multi -Family Residential
Mobile/Manufactured Homes
Residential: Other
Industrial
Vacant
Parcel Count Improved Value
Moderate Risk
2
63
$1,516,052
$13,853,498
TOTAL
26
32
1,660
154
4
7
High Risk
Commercial
Government/Utilities
Other/Exempt/Misc.
Residential
Multi -Family Residential
5
17
1,969
175
$4,581,431
$302,624,739
$28,317,154
$736,685
$11,659,175
$532,904
$3,839,339
$366,149,758
$43,257,911
Mobile/Manufactured Homes
Residential: Other
Industrial
Vacant
TOTAL
GRAND TOTAL (from both risk categories)
40
78
1,428
342
8
133
$278,697
$10,658,702
$278,017,365
$85,310,401
$1,605,910
$65,889, 513
3
$224,660
17
2,224
4,193
$2,864,979
$488,108,138
$854,257,896
Source: San Luis Obispo County Planning and Building Dept., Assessor's Office, ParcelQuest, Wood Plc Parcel Analysis
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.16
• • •
Table D.11
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
Critical Facilities in Liquefaction Risk Areas in Morro Bay
Facility Type Facility Count
Moderate Risk
Day Care Facilities
Emergency Medical Service Stations
Fire Stations
Microwave Service Towers
Public Schools
Wastewater Treatment Plants
1
2
Power Plants
2
1
1
Total
Day Care Facilities
Emergency Medical Service Stations
Fire Stations
Local Law Enforcement
Nursing Homes
Day Care Facilities
Total
11
1
1
6
GRAND TOTAL
18
•
•
•
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay 1 February 2020
Annex D.17
•
• • •
Figure D.3
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
Liquefaction Risk in the City of Morro Bay
Liquefaction Risk
High Risk
Moderate Risk
Low Risk
--- — Local Roads
Highway
Freeway
Waterways
Morro Bay
,.0
Counties
• Sphere of Influence
Land Stewardship
;/ State
'/I
US Forest Service
Map compiled 52019;
intended for planning purposes only.
Data Source. San Luis Obispo County, US Census
TIGER Database, CA Open Data Portal,
BLM/California State Office, LAFCO, HIFLD
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay 1 February 2020
0
1
1
1
1
1
2 Miles
1
N
A
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
Flood
Historically, the City of Morro Bay has experienced severe flooding events that have resulted in extensive
property damage. Areas with a history of flooding have a high probability of future flooding. Areas of concern
include the following creek drainage systems: Chorro Creek, the Morro/Little Morro Creek convergence, No -
Name Creek, Alva Paul Creek, Toro Creek, and San Bernardo Creek flow into and/or near the City. Chorro Creek
is the largest and runs along the southern boundary of the City near two mobile home parks. Morro Creek runs
parallel to Highway 41. These creeks present varying hazards and can block access to and egress from the City.
When rainfall and surface run-off from a storm exceeds a drainage system's capacity to adequately channel and
contain the water, flooding may occur. Potential flood areas include: The South Bay Boulevard area between
Highway 1 and State Park Road; the area between Highway 41/Atascadero Road and Radcliff Avenue; low-lying
sections of Island Street and Beachcomber; Highway 1, at the northern City limits; and, Highway 1 south of the
City limit.
In Morro Bay, the most common type of flooding event is riverine flooding, also known as overbank flooding.
Riverine floodplains range from narrow, confined channels in the steep valleys of mountainous and hilly regions,
to wide, flat areas in plains and agricultural regions. The amount of water in the floodplain is a function of the
size and topography of the contributing watershed, the regional and local climate, and land use characteristics.
Flooding in steep, mountainous areas is usually confined, strikes with less warning time, and has a short
duration. In addition to riverine flooding, Morro Bay is susceptible to flash flooding in smaller watersheds. Flash
flood is a term widely used by experts and the general population, but there is no single definition or clear
means of distinguishing flash floods from other riverine floods. Flash floods are generally understood to involve
a rapid rise in water level, high velocity, and large amounts of debris, which can lead to significant damage that
includes the tearing out of trees, undermining of buildings and bridges, and scouring of new channels. The
intensity of flash flooding is a function of the intensity and duration of rainfall, steepness of the watershed,
stream gradients, watershed vegetation, natural and artificial flood storage areas, and configuration of the
streambed and floodplain. Urban areas are increasingly subject to flash flooding due to the removal of
vegetation, installation of impermeable surfaces over ground cover, and construction of drainage systems.
Wildland fires that strip hillsides of vegetation and alter soil characteristics may also create conditions that lead
to flash floods and debris flows. Debris flows are may also create conditions that lead to flash floods and debris
flows. Flood hazards have been determined to pose a High Significance risk to the City.
Values at Risk
A flood vulnerability assessment was completed during the 2019 update, following the methodology described
in Section 5 2 of the Base Plan. Table D.12 summarizes the values at risk in the City's 100-year, 500-year, and
coastal (zone VE) floodplains. The table also details total values, Toss estimates for each flood, and potential
population at risk to each flooding zone. Figure D.4 shows the flooded parcels along with the FEMA flood hazard
areas which cross the boundaries of Morro Bay.
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.19
• • •
Table D.12
City of Morro Bay Parcels in the Floodplains, by Parcel Type
Parcel Type
Agricultural
Commercial
Government/Utilities
Other/Exempt/
Miscellaneous
Residential
Multi -Family Residential
Mobile/Manufactured
Homes
Residential: Other
Industrial
Vacant
TOTAL
Parcel
Count
1
21
18
9
93
20
2
Improved
Value
Content Value
Total Value
100-Year Floodplain
$4,833
$6,671,912
$96,077
$777,341
$17,337,391
$3,395,985
$552,884
2
$2,881,233
3
11
180
$241,406
$3,456,946
$35,416,008
$4,833
$6,671,912
$8,668,696
$1,697,993
$276,442
$1,440,617
$362,109
Owe Omit
$19,122,601
$9,666
$13,343,824
$96,077
$777,341
$26,006,087
$5,093,978
$829,326
$4,321,850
$603,515
$3,456,946
$54,538,609
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
Loss Estimate Population
$2,417
$3,335,956
$24,019
$194,335
$6,501,522
$1,273,494
$207,332
233
50
$1,080,462
$150,879
5
5
$864,237
$13,634,652
294
500-Year Floodplai
Commercial
Government/Utilities
Other/Exempt/
Miscellaneous
Residential
Multi -Family Residential
Vacant
TOTAL
5
4
9
221
24
1
264
$550,272
$550,272
$1,100,544
$275,136
$793,698
$35,375,902
$3,625,452
$7,290
$40,352,614
e.
$17,687,951
$1,812,726
$20,050,949
so
$793,698
$53,063,853
$5,438,178
$7,290
$60,403,563
so
$198,425
$13,265,963
$1,359,545
$1,823
$15,100,891
555
60
615
Coastal (Zone VE) Floodplain
Government/Utilities
Other/Exempt/
Miscellaneous
Vacant
TOTAL
GRAND TOTAL (all
floodplains)
Source: San Luis Obispo County Planning and Building Dept., Assessor's Office, ParcelQuest, Wood Pic Parcel Analysis, FEMA NFHL
9
1
1
11
le OEM
$5,724
$5,724
$75,774,346
so
$39,173,550
$0
$0
$5,724
$5,724
$114,947,896
$0
$0
$2,862
$2,862
$28,736,974
455
909
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.20
• • •
Figure D.4
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
Flooded Parcels in the FEMA Flood Hazard Areas, City of Morro Bay
PACIFIC OCEAN
100-Year Flooded Parcels
500-Year Flooded Parcels
VE Coastal Flooded Parcels
FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas
1%Annual Chance
0.2% Annual Chance
VE Coastal Flooding
Local Roads
Highway
Freeway
Waterways
Morro Bay
• 0
Counties
Sphere of Influence
• . .
Land Stewardship
V/I
State
1 US Forest Service
Map compiled 62019;
Intended for planning purposes only.
Data Source: San Luis Obispo County,
US Census TIGER Database, CA Open
Data Portal, BLM/Californla State Office,
LAFCO, FEMA NFHL
0
1
1
1
1
1
2 Miles
1
N
A
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay 1 February 2020
Annex D.21
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
•
Based on this analysis, the City of Morro Bay has significant assets at risk to the 100-year, 500-year, and VE costal
floods. There are 180 properties located within the 100-year floodplain for a total value of over $54 million. An
additional 264 improved parcels valued at over $60 million fall within the 500-year floodplain, though the
estimated losses would be about just over $13.6 million for the 100-year flood and a little over $15 million for
the 500-year flood. With regards to coastal flooding, a total of 11 parcels are found to overlap with the VE
coastal zone floodplain, for a total value of $5,724 and a loss estimate of $2,862.
The loss estimates for the 100- and 500-year flood events were calculated by taking 25% of the total values of
the parcels, which in turn were found by adding up both improvement and content values for the parcels found
to overlap with each of the floodplain layers, in GIS. The Toss estimates for the costal (VE zone) floodplain were
found by taking 50% of the total value from the parcel totals, as it is predicted that coastal flooding may
damage properties found within its path more adversely than regular riverine flooding (such as is assumed for
the 100- and 500-year flooding events).
For more information on the asset calculations, parcel analysis, and loss estimation curves based on FEMA and
Hazus derived standards refer to the Base Plan (e.g. Section 5.2).
Limitations to the analysis performed and results shown: The analysis performed may include structures in the
floodplains that are elevated at or above the level of the base -flood elevation, which will likely mitigate flood
damage.
Population at Risk
Population at risk was estimated using the average persons per household values for the County of San Luis
Obispo, based on the U.S. Census Bureau statistics. This figure is 2.51 persons per household. Then, this number
was multiplied by the number of residential parcels found to overlap with the flooding layers in GIS, as it is
assumed that no people live in non-residential parcels (e.g. commercial, government entities).
Insurance Coverage, Claims Paid, and Repetitive Losses
The City of Morro Bay joined the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) on February 15, 1974. NFIP Insurance
data indicates that as of February 28, 2019, there were 175 flood insurance policies in force in the City with
$54,027,900 of coverage. Of the 175 policies, 152 were residential (143 for single-family homes, 4 for two to
four -unit homes, and 5 for other residential properties) while 23 were nonresidential. There are 67 polices in
A01-30 & AE zone and 7 policies in A zones. The remaining 101 are in B, C, and X zones.
There have been 17 historical claims for flood losses totaling $243,005 that have been paid, out of 26 total cases
submitted. According to the FEMA Community Information System there are no Repetitive Loss or Severe
Repetitive Loss properties located in the jurisdiction.
Critical Facilities at Risk
Critical facilities are those community components that are most needed to withstand the impacts of disaster as
previously described. There are seven critical facilities found in the 100-year floodplain in Morro Bay, and one
critical facility (a public school) located in the City's 500-year floodplain. No critical facilities in Morro Bay are
found to overlap with the coastal VE zone floodplain. It is particularly important to note that the critical facilities
in the 500-year floodplain are all facilities that serve vulnerable populations and should be given special
attention. Table D.13 below summarizes the critical facilities in the City's 100- and 500-year floodplains. The
impact to the community could be great if these facilities are damaged or destroyed during a flood event.
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.22
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
Table D.13
Critical Facilities in the FEMA Flood Hazard Areas, Morro Bay
Floodplain
100-year
500-year
Critical Facility Type
Day Care Facilities
Microwave Service Towers
Wastewater Treatment Plant
Energy Commission Facilities
Power Plants
Public Schools
TOTAL
Facility Count
2
1
7
Source: San Luis Obispo County Planning and Building Dept., LAFCO, HIFLD, Wood PIc Parcel Analysis, FEMA NFHL
Landslides and Debris Flow
A well -documented history of landslide activity in the study area is present. Landslides activity is observable all
along the Highway 1 corridor from San Luis Obispo, through the community of Morro Bay, and on north to San
Simeon. In 1983, and again in 1995, very wet winters led to significant slope movement in the North Morro Bay
area, north of Highway 41 and east of Highway 1; a number of slides caused the total destruction of homes,
considerable damage to others, and damage to pipelines, driveways, and roadways. Numerous studies have
documented unstable, landslide prone slopes in the Morro Bay area generally east of Highway 1 and north of
Highway 41. A major landslide along the transportation routes in and out of the City of Morro Bay is a potential
hazard to the heavily tourism -reliant economy.
Table D.14 summarizes the parcel counts and values exposed to landslide potential areas in the City. Figure D.5
shows, in map form, where these landslide potential areas are in and near the City. One critical facility, a
Microwave Service Tower, is located within the landslide potential areas in Morro Bay. Overall, landslide and
debris flow hazards pose a Medium Significance risk to the City of Morro Bay.
Table D.14
City of Morro Bay Landslide Potential by Parcel Type
Property Type
Parcel Count
Moderate Landslide Potential
Government/Utilities
Other/Exempt/Miscellaneous
Residential
Multi -Family Residential
Industrial
Vacant
TOTAL
Government/Utilities
4
1
361
5
1
6
378
High Landslide Potential
Other/Exempt/ Miscellaneous
Residential
Multi -Family Residential
Vacant
TOTAL
GRAND TOTAL
3
3
299
4
1
310
688
Improved Value
$10,173
$93,272,094
$1,137,135
$39,719
$643,597
$95,102,718
$234,780
$59,607,787
$584,147
$136,000
$60,562,714
$155,665,432
Source: San Luis Obispo County Planning and Building Dept , LAFCO, Wood PIc Parcel Analysis
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.23
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
Figure D.5 Landslide Potential Areas in the City of Morro Bay
Landslide Potential
Very High
High
Moderate
Local Roads
Highway
Freeway
Waterways
Morro Bay
Eli Counties
,, 0 0
oSphere of Influence
420 Land Stewardship
State
It / I US Forest Service
Map compiled 6/2019;
intended for planning purposes only.
Data Source San Luis Obispo County,
US Census TIGER Database, CA Open
Data Portal, BLM/California State Office, LAFCO
0
1
1
1
1
2 Miles
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.24
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
Coastal Storm/Coastal Erosion/Sea Level Rise
The entire 100-mile coastline of San Luis Obispo County and existing urban development and natural resources
are potentially exposed to a range of coastal hazards, including coastal storms and coastal erosion. Such hazards
are projected to become more severe when combined with sea level rise (see Section 5.3.4 - Coastal Storm and
Erosion). The City's State Park, harbor, and developed and undeveloped coastal bluff trails are sources of
community enhancement and the tourism -driven economy. Coastal hazards have the potential to harm the
economic stability of the City. Additional areas of vulnerabilities include the low-lying development and
development on higher elevated terraces in close proximity to beaches and sand dunes. The northern beach
portions of Morro Bay are protected from serious erosion by a wide gentle slope, which is backed by a low series
of small sand dunes. Erosion may occur each winter with the onslaught of large winter surf, however natural
process returns the sand to the beach during the summer months. The infrastructure of the harbor entrance is a
different matter. Large winter storms may have serious impacts on the jetties and breakwater that are an integral
part of maintaining a safe navigable entrance to the harbor. The southern portions of the City and the Bay itself
are protected by a wide beach and large series of tall sand dunes.
Sea level rise (SLR) has the potential to increase the frequency and severity of coastal hazards affecting coastal
assets and resources in the City of Morro Bay. The City is susceptible to coastal hazards such as inundation,
flooding, and bluff/dune erosion associated with extreme waves and water levels. Exposure of a coastal asset or
resource to a hazard may result in varying impacts, depending on its function and its resiliency, which is its
ability to withstand and recover from these events as outlined in the 2018 sea level rise adaption strategy report.
These coastal storm, coastal erosion, and sea level rise hazards have been rated by the Planning Team as holding
High Significance in the City.
As part of the 2019 HMP planning effort, a sea level rise risk assessment was completed to determine how sea
level rise may affect coastal jurisdictions and critical facilities and how coastal flooding might be exacerbated in
the future. Table D.15 lists the critical facilities that would be affected by sea level rise. There is no risk until the
300 cm scenario; facilities identified include the Morro Bay High School, and the Morro Bay/Cayucos wastewater
treatment plan, the power plant and an PG&E substation. Table D.16 and Table D.17 summarize the other
properties at risk of inundation by sea level rise and sea level rise combined with a 1% annual chance coastal
flood. The area of inundation by sea level rise and sea level rise combined with the 1% coastal flood are shown
in Figure D.6 and Figure D.7, respectively. See Section 5.3.4 Coastal Storm/Coastal Erosion/Sea Level Rise in the
base plan for more details on the scenarios and data sources used for this analysis.
Table D.15
Critical Facilities Inundated by Sea Level Rise
Sea Level Rise
300-cm
Critical Facility Type
Microwave Service Towers
Wastewater Treatment Plant
Energy Commission Facilities
Power Plants
Schools
TOTAL
Facility Count
1
1
1
7
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.25
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
Table D.16
Properties Inundated by Sea Level Rise and Sea Level Rise with 1% Annual Chance Flood
Commercial
Property
Type
25-cm
SLR
--
75-cm
SLR
--
300-cm 25-cm SLR
SLR w/ 1% Flood
75-cm SLR
w/ 1% Flood
1
300-cm
w/
SLR
1% Flood
12
--
12
Government/Utilities
1
1
19
1
3
19
Other/Exempt/Misc.
--
--
6
--
--
9
Residential
--
1
12
1
1
76
Residential:
Other
--
--
3
--
1
4
Vacant
1
1
3
1
1
4
Total
2
3
55
3
124
7
Source: Wood analysis with USGS CoSMoS 3.1 data
Table D.17 Improved Values of Properties Inundated by Sea Level Rise and Sea Level Rise with 1%
Annual Chance Flood
Property Type
25-cm
SLR
75-cm
SLR
300-cm SLR
25-cm SLR 75-cm SLR 300-cm SLR
w/ 1% Flood w/ 1% Flood w/ 1% Flood
Commercial
Government/Utilities
Other/Exempt/Misc.
Residential
Residential: Other
Vacant
Total
*ma SO
$4,441,799
S se
$74,906
$5,724
$ 5, 724
Source: Wood analysis with USGS CoSMoS 3.1 data
$42,463
$5,724
$48,187
$3,930,417
$7,707,961
$3,312,145
$19,467,228
$800,000
$4,441,799
$74,906
$42,463
S IS
$5,724
$48,187
$42,463
$30,817,911
$9,981,210
$5,724
$4,920,431
$3,337,145
$48,652,971
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.26
0 • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
Figure D.6 Morro Bay Sea Level Rise Scenario Analysis: Tidal Inundation Only
PACIFIC
Tidal Inundation Zone with Sea Level Rise (No Flood Event)
25cm. (--11t.) SLR
75cm. (-2.6ft.) SLR
300cm. (—'9.9ft.) SLR
Local Roads
Highway
Freeway
Waterways
Morro Bay
OCEAN
r
IPPF
Sphere of Influence
Critical Facility by Category
Emergency Services
❑ High Potential Loss Facilities
❑ Lifeline Utility Systems
Map compiled 8/2019;
Intended for planning purposes only.
Data Source: USGS CoSMoS v3.1.
San Luis Obispo County, US Census TIGER
Database, CA Open Data Portal, LAFCO.
Note: SLR in Sea Level Rise
0
1
1
0.75
1
1
1.5 Miles
N
A
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay 1 February 2020
Annex D.27
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
Figure D.7 Morro Bay Sea Level Rise Scenario Analysis: Tidal Inundation and 1 % Annual Chance Flood
'
4
•
t
Tidal Inundation Zone with Sea Level Rise and 100-Year Flood Event
25cm. (-1ft.) SLR plus 100-Year Flood
75cm. (-2.6ft.) SLR plus 100-Year Flood
I 1 300cm. (-9.9ft.) SLR plus 100-Year Flood
Local Roads
Highway
Freeway
Waterways
Morro Bay
Sphere of Influence
• 0; 7-
. .
. t
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ittt
Critical Facility by Category
El Emergency Services
O High Potential Loss Facilities
O Lifeline Utility Systems
•
was AS-
•
Map compiled 8/2019;
intended for planning purposes only.
Data Source: USGS CoSMoS v3.1.
San Luis Obispo County, US Census TIGER
Database, CA Open Data Portal, LAFCO.
Note: SLR = Sea Level Rise
0
1
1
0.75
1
1
1.5 Miles
1
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay 1 February 2020
Annex D.28
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
Tsunami and Seiche
Tsunami inundation poses a risk to all coastal communities in the County of San Luis Obispo including Morro
Bay. Offshore faults and related seismic activity could cause a tsunami event off the coast of Morro Bay, even if
the faults are thousands of miles away Historically, significant tsunamis on the Central Coast of California have
been infrequent. Few incidences have been recorded and the historical record is not extensive enough to
develop accurate reoccurrence predictions. The potential tsunami hazard for the City's coastal areas is greatest
for those communities or portions of communities that are located at or below 50 feet above mean sea level. In
general, much of the Coast of Morro Bay is protected from tsunami hazards by wide beaches, coastal dunes, or
sea cliffs that provide protection for coastal developments. Coastal developments most vulnerable to the
tsunami hazards are those located near mouths of streams that drain into the Pacific Ocean. The potential for
damage to coastal structures would likely increase if the tsunami event were to coincide with a high tide, storm
related waves, or large winter storm runoff. Tsunami hazards are predicted in the following locations within the
City of Morro Bay: Morro Creek, Alva Paul Creek, Chorro Creek, Atascadero Beach, the harbor area, and
Embarcadero.
A GIS analysis performed on the parcels and the tsunami inundation layers determined that 332 parcels with an
estimated Toss value of over $145 million are at risk of this hazard. See Table D.18 for a summary of the parcel
count, improved values, content values, total values, loss estimates (which in this case equal the total values),
and population at risk of tsunami inundation. Figure D.8 displays these tsunami inundation areas on the coast of
the City.
Critical Facilities were also overlaid with the tsunami inundation layers in GIS. This analysis yielded a total of six
facilities found at risk. These are listed in Table D 18 Tsunami and Seiche hazards have been rated by the City's
planning team as holding High Significance.
Table D.18
Parcels in the Tsunami Inundation Zones in the City of Morro Bay
Property Type
Commercial
Parcel Count
improved
Value
19 $5,909,664
Government/ Utilities
Other/Exempt/
Miscellaneous
Residential
Mobile/ Manufactured
Homes
Residential: Other
Industrial
Vacant
TOTAL
42
21
$96,077
$783,694
236 $76,829,089
1
$257,130
3
$8,883,394
Content
Value
$5,909,664
II die
Total Value
$11,819,328
$96,077
$783,694
$38,414,545
$128,565
$4,441,697
$115,243,634
$385,695
$13,325,091
3
7
332
$241,406
$362,109
$3,361,253
$96,361,707
9,256,580
$603,515
Loss
Estimate
$11,819,328
Population
$96,077
$783,694
115,243,634
omm. an
.Ilmn OEM
592
$385,695
$13,325,091
3
8
$603,515
$3,361,253
$145,618,287
$3,361,253
145,618,287
602
Source: San Luis Obispo County Planning and Building Dept., LAFCO, Wood Plc Parcel Analysis, CA Department of Conservation
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay l February 2020
Annex D.29
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
Table D.19
Critical Facilities in the Tsunami Inundation Zones, City of Morro Bay
Property Type
Wastewater Treatment Plant
Parcel Count
Public Schools
Energy Commission Facilities
Power Plants
Microwave Service Towers
TOTAL
1
1
2
6
Source: San Luis Obispo County Planning and Building Dept., LAFCO, HIFLD, Wood Plc Parcel Analysis, CA Department of Conservation
•
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay l February 2020
Annex D.30
0 0 •
Figure D.8
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
Tsunami Inundation Areas in the City of Morro Bay
PACIFIC OCEAN
Tsunami Inundation
Local Roads
Highway
Freeway
Waterways
Morro Bay
..• � Sphere of Influence
Land Stewardship
State
{ { US Forest Service
Map compiled 62019,
intended for planning purposes only.
Data Source. San Luis Obispo County,
US Census TIGER Database, CA Open
Data Portal, BLM/California State Office,
LAFCO, CA Dept. of Conservation
0
1
(0 (
1
1
1
1
2 Miles
1
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.31
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
Wildfire
Weather plays a key factor in the wildland fire potential in Morro Bay. Rain fall occurs primarily between the
months of November and April, and ranges between 20 to 25 inches per year. Summers are typically cool with
fog and or high humidity the norm. Wind in the area, a key factor in spread, is quite predictable and is usually
moisture laden due to the close proximity of the ocean. Fall season typically shows drier and warmer days, which
combine with the lack of rainfall to increase the fire hazard threat. Despite the temperate climate in the City, the
lack of rainfall can lead to an increase in fire hazard threat. Fuel sources in the Morro Bay area are diverse,
including everything from dead tree leaves, twigs, and branches to dead standing trees, live trees, brush, and
cured grasses. The type of prevalent fuel directly influences the behavior of wildfire, and the City's planning team
has identified hazardous trees as potentially increasing fuel sources.
Wildland fires can be classified as urban fires, interface or intermix fires, or prescribed fires. The following three
factors contribute significantly to wildland fire behavior:
Topography: As slope increases, the rate of wildland fire spread increases. South -facing slopes are also subject
to more solar radiation, making them drier and thereby intensifying wildland fire behavior. However, ridge tops
may marl< the end of wildland fire spread because the speed at which a fire moves downhill is much slower,
sometimes resulting in a natural fire barriers.
Fuel: The type and condition of vegetation plays a significant role in the occurrence and spread of wildland fires.
Certain types of plants are more susceptible to burning or will burn with greater intensity. Dense or overgrown
vegetation increases the amount of combustible material available to fuel the fire (referred to as the "fuel load").
The ratio of living to dead plant matter is also important. The risk of fire is increased significantly during periods
of prolonged drought as the moisture content of both living and dead plant matter decreases. The fuel s density,
both horizontally and vertically, is also an important factor.
Weather: The most variable factor affecting wildland fire behavior is weather. Temperature, humidity, wind, and
lightning can affect chances for ignition and spread of fire. Extreme weather, such as high temperatures and low
humidity, can lead to extreme wildland fire activity. By contrast, cooling and higher humidity often signals
reduced wildland fire occurrence and easier containment.
The frequency and severity of wildland fires is also dependent upon other hazards, such as lightning, drought,
and infestations (such as the 2003 firestorm damage to southern California alpine forests by the pine bark
beetle). If not promptly controlled, wildland fires may grow into a large scale emergency or disaster. Even small
fires can threaten lives and resources and destroy improved properties. The indirect effects of wildland fires can
be catastrophic. In addition to stripping the land of vegetation and destroying forest resources, large, intense
fires can harm the soil, waterways, and the land itself. Soil exposed to intense heat may lose its capability to
absorb moisture and support life. Exposed soils erode quickly and enhance siltation of rivers and streams,
thereby enhancing flood potential, harming aquatic life, and degrading water quality. Lands stripped of
vegetation are also subject to increased debris flow hazards, as described above.
Wildland fires are common occurrences in San Luis Obispo County. The most significant wildland fires within the
county have been located in the northern division of the Los Padres National Forest. In 1994, a 49,000-acre fire
burned forestland from the western portion of Morro Bay to Morro Bay. In 1996, 106,000 acres burned in the
Machesna Mountain Wilderness area southeast of the City before the fire was contained. A little over one year
later, a 30,000-acre wildland fire burned in forestland in the southern portion of San Luis Obispo County. The
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay 1 February 2020
Annex D.32
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
largest historical wildfire in the City limits of Morro Bay was contained to approximately seven acres. The open
lands in and adjoining the City have been categorized by the California Department of Forestry and Fire
Protection's Fire and Resource Assessment Program (FRAP), as being of a Medium Fire Hazard. The areas that
are at risk from a large-scale wildland fire are mostly located on the edge of the City limits. These "fringe" areas
are where there is the most potential for a wild fire to cause significant property damage, however most of these
lands are grazed by cattle and the fuel loads are kept to a minimum. The neighborhoods bordering the Morro
Bay State Park and Black Hill area also constitute wildfire urban interface problem.
Following the methodology described in the wildfire hazard Section 5.3.12 Wildfire of the Base Plan, along with
the GIS parcel analysis discussed in more detail under Section 5 2 Asset Summary a wildfire vulnerability analysis
for the City of Morro Bay was completed. The assessment was performed using GIS, and results indicate that
there were neither parcels nor critical facilities in wildfire severity hazard zones within the boundaries of the City
of Morro Bay. However, wildfire hazards have been rated by the City's planning team as holding High
Significance based on the community's experience and historical evidence.
Human Caused: Hazardous Materials
The City of Morro Bay is at risk of both hazardous material incidents at fixed facilities as well as materials being
transported on Highway 101 which traverse the City's jurisdiction and is considered a major transportation route
for shipping hazardous materials. An incident along this Highway would expose a significant portion of the City's
population as well as the local economy if Highway 101 was to be shut down for an extended period of time.
The Cal OES Warning Center reports 266 hazardous materials incidents in the City of Morro Bay from 1994
through October 24, 2018; as noted in Section 5.3.13 of the Base Plan, this likely excludes a large number of
unreported minor spills. These over two hundred incidents constitute 15% of the hazardous materials incidents
reported countywide during the same time frame, which in turn averages to roughly 10.6 incidents per year in or
near Morro Bay. As noted in Section 5.3.13, only around 6% of reported hazardous materials incidents result in
injuries, fatalities, or evacuations. Although there are no significant hazardous materials facilities located in the
City, Morro Bay sits within the Emergency Planning Zone for the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant. Overall,the
planning team has classified Hazardous Materials as holding Medium Significance for the jurisdiction.
D.4 Capability Assessment
Capabilities are the programs and policies currently in use to reduce hazard impacts or that could be used to
implement hazard mitigation activities. This capability assessment is divided into five sections: regulatory
mitigation capabilities, administrative and technical mitigation capabilities, fiscal mitigation capabilities,
mitigation outreach and partnerships, and other mitigation efforts.
To develop this capability assessment, the jurisdictional planning representatives used a matrix of common
mitigation activities to inventory which of these policies or programs were in place. The team then
supplemented this inventory by reviewing additional existing policies, regulations, plans, and programs to
determine if they contributed to reducing hazard -related losses.
During the plan update process, this inventory was reviewed by the jurisdictional planning representatives and
Wood consultant team staff to update information where applicable and note ways in which these capabilities
have improved or expanded. In summarizing current capabilities and identifying gaps, the jurisdictional planning
representatives also considered their ability to expand or improve upon existing policies and programs as
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.33
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
potential new mitigation strategies. The City of Morro Bay's updated capabilities are summarized below in Table
D 20.
D.4.1 Regulatory Mitigation Capabilities
Table D.20 City of Morro Bay Regulatory Mitigation Capabilities
Regulatory Tool
General plan
Zoning ordinance
Subdivision ordinance
Growth management ordinance
Floodplain ordinance
Other special purpose ordinance (stormwater,
water conservation, wildfire)
Building code
Fire department ISO rating
Erosion or sediment control program
Stormwater management program
Site plan review requirements
Capital improvements plan
Economic development plan
Local emergency operations plan
Other special plans
Flood Insurance Study or other engineering
study for streams
Elevation certificates (for floodplain
development)
Yes/No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Comments
Land Use Element, Circulation Element, Housing
Element, Noise Element, Safety Element,
Conservation and Open Space Element, Access
and Recreation Element, and Visual Resources
and Scenic Highway Element
Title 17. Zoning Regulations of the City of Morro
Bay Code
Title 16: Subdivisions
Ordinance No. 266
Chapter 14.72 General Provisions
Chapter 14.48 Building Regulations: Illicit
Discharge and Stormwater Management
Control, Chapter 13.04.345 Mandatory Water
Conservation Requirements Ordinance under
Emergency Water Levels
Chapter 14.03
Class 5
Erosion and Sediment Control Manual
Chapter 14.48- Illicit Discharge and Stormwater
Management Control
Chapter 17. 40 Planned Development Overlay
Zone
Public works
Morro Bay Economic Development Roadmap
Chapter 8.08.080- Emergency Plan, County EOP
(2016)
E.g., Downtown Waterfront Strategic Plan, Local
Coastal Plan — More online
2017
Section 14.72.020- Provisions for Flood Hazard
Reduction
D.4.2 Administrative/Technical Mitigation Capabilities
Table D 21 identifies the personnel responsible for activities related to mitigation and loss prevention in Morro
Bay.
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay 1 February 2020
Annex D.34
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
Table D.21
City of Morro Bay Administrative/Technical Mitigation Capabilities
Personnel Resources
Planner/engineer with knowledge of land
development/land management practices
Engineer/professional trained in construction
practices related to buildings and/or infrastructure
Planner/engineer/scientist with an understanding of
natural hazards
Personnel skilled in GIS
Full time building official
Floodplain manager
Emergency manager
Grant writer
GIS Data Resources
(Hazard areas, critical facilities, land use, building
footprints, etc.)
Warning systems/services
(Reverse 9-11, outdoor warning signals)
Yes/No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Department/Position
Yes
Yes
Community Development
Community Development Public Works
Planning/Fire Department
Technology
Community Development
Public Works
City Manager
Administration Services
Public Works
Dispatch
D.4.3 Fiscal Mitigation Capabilities
In order to achieve the goals and objectives of the Mitigation Strategy, one or more of the following funding
sources could be utilized: federal and state entitlements and grants, 58 general fund, sales and property taxes,
infrastructure user fees, impact fees, and new development impact fees. The City of Morro Bay has the necessary
budgetary tools and practices in place to facilitate handling appropriate funds; however, funding sources are
very limited. Table A.16 identifies financial tools or resources that the City could potentially use to help fund
mitigation activities.
Table D.22
City of Morro Bay Fiscal Mitigation Capabilities
Financial Resources
Community Development Block Grants
Capital improvements project funding
Authority to levy taxes for specific purposes
Fees for water, sewer, gas, or electric services
Impact fees for new development
Incur debt through general obligation bonds
Incur debt through special tax bonds
Incur debt through private activities
Withhold spending in hazard prone areas
Accessible/Eligible
to Use (Yes/No)
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
No
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay 1 February 2020
Annex D.35
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
D.4.4 Mitigation Outreach and Partnerships
The County of San Luis Obispo conducted community outreach within the City limits to receive feedback from
stakeholders on outlined mitigation strategies within the SLO County Multi -Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan.
The City of Morro Bay maintains partnerships with the local Morro Bay, Fire, Police, and Harbor Departments to
provide daily, long-term services required under the LHMP and the SLO County Multi -Jurisdictional Hazard
Mitigation Plan. The City's fire prevention and suppression services are provided by the City of Morro Bay Fire
Department (MBFD) a fire and emergency service organization. As of June 2019, MBFD is staffed by 11 full time
professional firefighters, 16 part time reserve firefighters, and 1 administrative assistant. The City of Morro Bay
Police Department (MBPD) provides law enforcement services for the City. As of June 2019, MBPD is staffed at
17 sworn officers including the Chief and Commander and one reserve officer, for a ratio of 1.7 officers per 1,000
residents. The Harbor Department of the City of Morro Bay provides a high level of service in community
education (water safety programs), public outreach, and community relations for boaters, beach users, and
waterfront visitors. The Harbor Department is also involved with resource management for the City's beaches
and natural resources Including coordination with state and federal regulatory agencies.
D.4.5 Other Mitigation Efforts
The Morro Bay Fire Department continusely reviews its current Insurance Service Office (ISO) Class 3 rating. The
ratings calculate how well-equipped fire departments are to put out fires in that community. The ISO provides
this score, often called the "ISO fire score," to homeowners insurance companies. The insurers then use it to help
set homeowners insurance rates. The more well-equipped your fire department is to put out a fire, the Tess likely
your house is to burn down. And that makes your home Tess risky, and therefore less expensive, to insure.
10,000
9,000
8,000
7,000 -
6, 000 -
5 00O -
4,000 -
3, 000 --
2, 000 -
1, 000 -
0
305
1
1,482
3,456
Countrywide
7,033
9,311
7.321
3,327
597
1,583
7,417
1,262
r r 1 1 r r r r 1
Class Class Class Class Class Class Class Class Class Class Class
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 8B 9 10
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay 1 February 2020
Annex D.36
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
D.4.6 Opportunities for Enhancement
Based on the capability assessment, the City of Morro Bay has several existing mechanisms in place that help to
mitigate hazards. There are also opportunities for the City to expand or improve on these policies and programs
to further protect the community. Future improvements may include providing training for staff members
related to hazards or hazard mitigation grant funding in partnership with the County and Cal OES. Additional
training opportunities will help to inform City staff members on how best to integrate hazard information and
mitigation projects into their departments. Continuing to train City staff on mitigation and the hazards that pose
a risk to the City of Morro Bay will lead to more informed staff members who can better communicate this
information to the public.
D.5 Mitigation Strategy
D.5.1 Mitigation Goals and Objectives
The City of Morro Bay's Hazard Mitigation Planning Group determined the goals from the 2012 Local Hazard
Mitigation Plan continue to be appropriate for this plan update. The Group coordinated with the Fire Chief and
the City Engineer to develop the following set of goals, objectives and mitigation actions for review by the City
Council. The following are the City of Morro Bay's 2019 mitigation goals:
Goal 1. Promote disaster -resiliency for future development to help them become less vulnerable to hazards.
Objective 1.1 Facilitate the development (or updating) of the City's Comprehensive Plan, City General Plans, and
zoning ordinances to limit (or ensure safe) development in hazard areas.
Objective 1.2: Facilitate the incorporation and adoption of building codes and development regulations that
encourage disaster resistant design.
Objective 1.3: Facilitate consistent implementation of plans, zoning ordinances, and building and fire codes.
Goal 2. Enhance hazard mitigation coordination and communication.
Objective 2 1: Address data limitations identified in Hazard Profiling and Risk Assessment. Provide education to
key stakeholders and the public to increase awareness of hazards and opportunities for mitigating hazards.
Objective 2.2: Increase awareness and knowledge of hazard mitigation principles and practice among local
government officials.
Objective 2 3 : Participate in initiatives that have mutual hazard mitigation benefits for the City.
Objective 2.4: Encourage other organizations, within the public, private, and non-profit sectors, to incorporate
hazard mitigation activities into their existing programs and plans.
Goal 3. Build and support local capacity and commitment to minimize the City's vulnerability to potential
hazards.
Objective 3.1 Improve existing capabilities to warn the public of emergency situations.
Objective 3.2 Develop programs to enhance the safety of residents, students, and staff within the community.
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.37
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
Objective 3.3 Continue to support the applicable City departments in their ability to respond effectively to major
emergencies.
Goal 4. Minimize the level of damage and losses to people as well as existing and future critical facilities and
infrastructure due to flooding.
Objective 4.1 Implement policies, procedures, and regulations to reduce the exposure to flood hazards
Objective 4 2 Protect the improved property, natural resources, and life that are vulnerable to flood hazards.
Objective 4.3 Reduce the vulnerability of community assets particularly critical facilities located within the 100-
year floodplain.
Objective 4.4 Continue to support and fund creek maintenance activities such as monitoring modifying property
owners of hazardous conditions, as well as performing routine creek maintenance as needed and permitted by
the California Department of Fish and Game.
Goal 5. Minimize the level of damage and losses to people, existing and future critical facilities and infrastructure
to tsunamis.
Objective 5.1 Develop a comprehensive approach to reducing the level of damage and losses resulting from
tsunami events.
Objective 5 2 Protect the improved property, natural resources, and life vulnerable to a tsunami event.
Goal 6. Minimize the level of damage and losses to people and existing and future critical facilities and
infrastructure due to wildland fires.
Objective 6.1 Develop a comprehensive approach to reducing the level of damage and losses due to wildland
fires.
Objective 6 2 Protect the improved property, natural resources, and life vulnerable to the effects of wildland fires.
Objective 6.3 Educate the public about wildland fire dangers and mitigation measures.
Goal 7. Minimize the level of damage and loses to people and existing and future critical facilities and
infrastructure due to earthquakes.
Objective 7.1 Develop a comprehensive approach to reducing the level of damage and losses due to
earthquakes.
Objective 7 2 Protect the improved property, natural resources, and life vulnerable to the effects of earthquakes.
Goal 8. Minimize the level of damage and losses to people and existing and future critical facilities and
infrastructure due to the accidental spills and releases of Hazardous Materials.
Objective 8.1 Support the existing comprehensive approach to reducing the level of damage and losses due to
the accidental spills and releases of hazardous materials.
Objective 8.2 Protect the improved property, natural resources, and life vulnerable to the accidental spills and
releases of hazardous materials.
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.38
• • •
Annex D: City of Morro Bay
Goal 9. Minimize the level of damage and losses to people and existing and future critical facilities and
infrastructure due to biological agent threats.
Objective 9.1 Develop a comprehensive approach to minimizing the loss of human life and livestock and
agricultural products due to biological agent threats.
Goal 10. Prepare for and adapt to the impacts of climate change.
Objective 10.1 Use, and update as needed, the best available science to estimate exposure, vulnerability,
and risk of hazards as the result of climate change.
Objective 10.2 Use the climate change exposure, vulnerability, and risk assessments to ensure mitigation
investments, capital projects, and programs actively mitigate climate impacts.
Continued Compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program
The City has been an NFIP participating community since 1979. In addition to the mitigation actions identified
herein the City will continue to comply with the NFIP. This includes ongoing activities such as enforcing local
floodplain development regulations, including issuing permits for appropriate development in Special Flood
Hazard Areas, and ensuring that this development mitigated in accordance with the regulations. This will also
include periodic reviews of the floodplain ordinance to ensure that it is clear and up to date, and reflects new or
revised flood hazard mapping.
D.5.2 Completed 2006 Mitigation Actions
During the 2019 planning process the City of Morro Bay Planning Team reviewed all the mitigation actions from
the 2006 LHMP. The review indicated the City has completed eleven mitigation actions since 2006, and has made
continued progress in implementing mitigation projects and building the community's resilience to disasters.
The completed actions have reduced vulnerability to hazards and increased local capability to implement
additional mitigation actions. Table D 23 below show the mitigation actions that have been completed since
2006.
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.39
• • •
City of Morro Bay Completed Mitigation Actions
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Annex D: City of Morro Bay
D.5.3 Mitigation Actions
The Planning Team for the City of Morro Bay identified and prioritized the following future mitigation actions
based on the conducted risk assessment (see Table D.24). Background information and information on how each
action will be implemented and administered, such as ideas for implementation, responsible office, potential
funding, estimated cost, and timeline are also included. Actions were prioritized using the process described in
Section 7.2 1 of the Base Plan. Actions with an asterisk (*) are those that mitigate losses to future development.
•
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.41
• • •
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Annex'D: City of Morro Bay
D.6 Implementation and Maintenance
Moving forward, the City will use the mitigation action table in the previous section to track progress on
implementation of each project. As illustrated in the completed actions table (Table D.23), much progress has
been made since the plan was originally developed. Implementation of the plan overall is discussed in Chapter 8
of the Base Plan.
D.6.1 Incorporation into Existing Planning Mechanisms
The information contained within this plan, including results from the Vulnerability Assessment and the
Mitigation Strategy, will be used by the City to help inform updates and the development of local plans,
programs and policies. The Engineering Division may utilize the hazard information when implementing the
City's Community Investment Program and the Planning and Building Divisions may utilize the hazard
information when reviewing a site plan or other type of development applications. The City will also incorporate
this LHMP into the Safety Element of their General Plan, as recommended by Assembly Bill (AB) 2140.
As noted in Chapter 8 of the Base Plan, the HMPC representatives from Morro Bay will report on efforts to
integrate the hazard mitigation plan into local plans, programs and policies and will report on these efforts at
the annual HMPC plan review meeting.
D.6.2 Monitoring, Evaluation and Updating the Plan
The City will follow the procedures to monitor, review, and update this plan in accordance with San Luis Obispo
County as outlined in Chapter 8 of the Base Plan. The City will continue to involve the public in mitigation, as
described in Section 8.3 of the Base Plan. The City of Morro Bay Planning Team will be responsible for
representing the City in the County HMPC, and for coordination with City staff and departments during plan
updates. The City realizes it is important to review the plan regularly and update it every five years in accordance
with the Disaster Mitigation Act Requirements as well as other State of California requirements.
San Luis Obispo County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Morro Bay I February 2020
Annex D.46
• • •