Item 26 - EIR No. 2020-03 and GPA No.2020-06 Santa Ana General Plan Update

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EIR No. 2020-03 and GPA No.2020-06 Santa Ana General Plan Update February 15, 2022 Page 9 Safety Element. The Safety Element combines the Public Safety and Seismic Safety elements of the existing General Plan into one document. Public health and safety and protection from the risks of natural and human -induced disasters, emergencies, and hazards are vital in establishing a safe and healthy environment for Santa Ana's residents, workers, and visitors. The purpose of the Safety Element is to eliminate and minimize risks associated with natural and human -generated hazards such as floods, earthquakes, and hazardous materials. By assessing and preparing for levels of risk, the City can endure the range of safety hazards and adapt to changes over time. This Element works in tandem with other elements of the General Plan, such as the Public Services Element, which contains goals and policies related to police, fire, and health services, as well as emergency planning and resiliency. There are 4 goals, 24 policies and 27 implementation items associated with this Element. This is a State mandated element. Historic Preservation Element. The Historic Preservation Element is a new element of the Santa Ana General Plan. Santa Ana was incorporated as a city in 1886 and designated the County seat in 1889. Historic preservation of the City's cultural and architectural heritage is an essential part of the City's economic vitality and identity. Residents take pride in the architectural heritage of the City, including its historical buildings and unique neighborhood character. Sites such as the Old Orange County Courthouse, Pacific Substation, Yost Theatre, and the Spurgeon Building reflect the City's rich cultural history and architectural diversity. The purpose of the Historic Preservation Element is to provide guidance in developing and implementing activities that ensure that identification, designation and protection of architectural, historical, cultural and archaeological resources are part of the City's planning, development and permitting processes. Through historic preservation policies and programs, Santa Ana's heritage and diversity will continue to be a source of community pride. There are 3 goals, 21 policies and 28 implementation items associated with this Element. This is an optional element of a General Plan. Land Use Element. The Land Use Element provides a long-range guide for the physical development of the City, reflecting the community's vision for a high quality of life. This Element guides the distribution, location, and size of new development, ensuring that residential neighborhoods are protected, and future growth is sustainable and minimizes potential conflicts. Through its focus on the pattern of land use, this element is also a tool to promote public health, reduce infrastructure costs, enhance local economies, and address long-term environmental issues such as air quality, climate change and water resources. The development, use and distribution of land are critical to achieving the City's vision and adhering to the Core Values. As stewards of the land, the City must plan for uses and development that creates a sustainable, healthy and livable City, ensures equitable