Luis Zamudio, Senior Engineer at CalWater, noted that they have no knowledge of
soil contamination at the subject site.
Ms. Schmidt explained that since the casing for the previously existing well failed
and rehabilitation of that well was not an option, the well was destroyed and a new
well with superior features is being proposed to replace it.
Mr. Zamudio specified that on-site storage will house sodium hypochlorite and
ammonia which, when combined in proper dosages, produces chloramines that are
used to disinfect water so it is safe for consumption. Ms. Schmidt provided details
on how these chemicals will be safely contained.
Commissioner Serrone shared his concerns regarding the limited information
available on the soil of the subject site. Mr. Zamudio explained that once the
proposed well is built, the water it holds will be tested for soil or groundwater
contamination. If any contamination is found, the well will not be permitted to
operate.
Commissioner Serrone received clarification from Mr. Towstopiat on why the
desalination plant alternative considered for the proposed project was rejected. Mr.
Towstopiat also clarified that a Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment was
prepared and did not indicate concerns regarding soil contamination. He also
explained that the Initial Study in the DEIR outlines a health and safety plan
prepared for the construction process of the proposed project.
At Commissioner Serrone’s request, Ms. Schmidt repeated information she
previously provided regarding the backup generator for the proposed project. Mr.
Zamudio ensured that emissions to be produced by this generator is anticipated to
be lower than they previously were. Mr. Towstopiat offered additional details on the
air quality and health risk assessments prepared for the proposed project. Senior
Planner Jeyaprakash noted that the generator in question will only operate during
emergencies and will be tested monthly.
Commissioner Sigura confirmed with Mr. Zamudio that the previous well was
destroyed per Santa Clara County standards.
At Commissioner Shukla’s request, Mr. Zamudio shared information on the history
of the proposed project and subject site. Senior Planner Jeyaprakash stated that
this information is already included in the Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment
of the DEIR. Principal Planner Caliva-Lepe added that this information will also be
included in the staff report when the proposed project returns to the Planning
Commission for consideration.
Mei-Ling Stefan highlighted items that she considers to be deficiencies of the DEIR
