Facilities Project Review and Environmental

Facilities Project Review and Environmental

Compliance

Policy 2-303

Scope:

This policy governs the adoption and use of objectives, criteria, and procedures for environmental review of District projects.

This policy applies to any proposed projects, including but not limited to:

1. •  New construction or additions to school facilities;  

   •  Modernization or major alterations; 

   •  Site acquisition or expansion; and 

   •  Installation of modular classrooms or portable buildings. 

     • 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. Environmental Review (CEQA Compliance)   

In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA):

1. •  The District shall serve as the "Lead Agency" for its own projects.  

   •  The Superintendent or designee shall determine whether a project is exempt, requires a Negative Declaration (ND), Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND), or full Environmental Impact Report (EIR).  

   •  CEQA review must be completed before project approval, contract execution, or site acquisition. 

2. 2. Site Acquisition and Environmental Assessments   

Prior to acquiring property for school use:

1. •  A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) shall be completed (Ed. Code § 17212). 

   •  If the site is potentially contaminated, oversight from the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) shall be obtained (Ed. Code § 17213).  

2. 3. Coordination with State Agencies   

The Superintendent or designee shall coordinate as needed with:

1. •  California Department of Education (CDE) for site and plan approvals  

   •  Office of Public School Construction (OPSC) for state-funded projects  

   •  Local planning, zoning, and fire authorities as required  

2. 4. Board Oversight and Public Involvement  

   •  All CEQA documents requiring Board certification or adoption (e.g., ND, MND, EIR) shall be presented to the Board for action.  

   •  The public shall be notified and invited to comment on applicable projects in accordance with CEQA guidelines.  

   •  The Board may hold public hearings as appropriate. 

Administrative Regulations

1. 1. Initial Project Review  

   •  When a facilities project is proposed, the Superintendent or designee shall:  

     •  Confirm project scope and timeline  

     •  Determine CEQA applicability  

     •  Identify required permits or approvals  

2. 2. CEQA Process  

   •  Determine project type:  

     •  Categorical Exemption (minor alterations, small additions); or 

     •  Initial Study leading to ND, MND, or EIR.  

   •  Prepare appropriate documentation or engage consultant support if needed. 

   •  File notices (e.g., Notice of Exemption or Intent) with County Clerk and State Clearinghouse if required. 

   •  Maintain record of public comments and responses.  

3. 3. Site Acquisition and Due Diligence  

   •  Conduct Phase I ESA before purchasing any property . 

   •  If hazardous materials are found, complete a Preliminary Endangerment Assessment (PEA) and consult DTSC.  

4. 4. Agency Coordination  

   •  Submit CEQA clearance and site plans to California Department of Education (CDE) and Office of Public School Construction (OPSC), if required.  

   •  Notify and coordinate with local authorities (planning, fire, utilities).  

   •  Confirm zoning and general plan consistency.  

5. 5. Board Actions and Recordkeeping  

   •  Present all CEQA findings and site acquisition decisions to the Board for approval  

   •  Maintain official project and environmental records in the District Office for public review.  

   •  Ensure all CEQA deadlines, notices, and filing requirements are met.