City of Culver City, California
Agenda Item Report
Meeting Date: 07/13/2009 Item Number: A-1
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM: Adoption of a Resolution Approving the Final
Sewer System Management Plan
Contact Person/Dept.: Kaden Young/PW Phone Number: (310) 253-6445
Fiscal Impact: Yes [X] No [] General Fund: Yes [] No [X]
Public Hearing: [] Action Item: [X] Attachments: [X]
Commission Action Required: Yes [] No [] Date: _______________
Public Notification: (E-Mail) Meetings and Agendas – City Council (07/08/09)
Department Approval:
Charles D. Herbertson (07/02/09)
City Attorney Approval:
Carol Schwab (by H. Baker) (07/08/09)
Chief Financial Officer Approval:
Jeff Muir (by M. Noller) (07/08/09)
City Manager Approval:
Mark Scott (07/08/09)
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the City Council adopt a resolution approving the final Sewer
System Management Plan (SSMP) pursuant to State Water Resources Control
Board Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ.
BACKGROUND:
On May 2, 2006 the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) adopted a
Statewide General Waste Discharge Requirements and Monitoring and Reporting
Program (WDRs) by issuing Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ to provide a consistent
statewide approach for reducing Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSOs).
Two major components of the WDRs are the requirements that owners and
operators of publicly owned collection sewer systems a mile long or greater apply for
coverage under the WDRs and that they develop and implement a Sewer System
Management Plan (SSMP). Culver City owns and operates 85 miles of gravity and
force main sewers and 7 pump stations and is therefore subject to the WDRs. The
City has applied for coverage under the WDRs.
The development plan and schedule of the SSMP must be approved by the local
governing board (in Culver City’s case, the City Council) by November 2, 2007
(which action was taken by the City Council on October 22, 2007) and the final
SSMP must be approved by August 2, 2009 (which action is before the City Council
this evening).
City of Culver City, California
Agenda Item Report
As mentioned above, on October 22, 2007, City Council adopted Resolution No.
2007-R057, establishing a schedule for implementing a Sewer System Management
Plan (Attachment 1).
DISCUSSION:
The SSMP must include provisions to provide proper and efficient management,
operation, and maintenance of sanitary sewer systems, while taking into
consideration risk management and cost-benefit analysis. Additionally, the SSMP
must contain a spill response plan that establishes standard procedures for
immediate response to a SSO in a manner designed to minimize water quality
impacts and potential nuisance. Each element of the SSMP and its deadlines are
listed in Attachment 2.
The final SSMP must be approved by the local governing board for certification upon
its completion. Since November 2007, staff has diligently prepared the SSMP, one
element at a time. The final SSMP is now complete and ready for the City Council’s
consideration and recommended approval (Attachment 3).
FISCAL ANALYSIS:
The City’s annual budget for operating and maintaining the sewer system is currently
$6,770,473. In addition to this amount, the City pays the City of Los Angeles over
$2 million per year to convey and treat its sewage at the Hyperion Sewage
Treatment Plant. The approval and adoption of the SSMP is a negligible expense;
however, additional expenses may be realized if deficiencies in the sewer
infrastructure are revealed.
ATTACHMENTS:
1) Resolution No. 2007-R057
2) SSMP Required Time Schedule
3) Culver City’s Final SSMP
4) Proposed Resolution
MOTION:
That the City Council:
Adopt a resolution approving the Final Sewer System Management Plan
pursuant to State Water Resources Control Board Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ.
MEETING DATE: 07/13/2009
AGENDA ITEM:
Approval of the Final Sewer System Management Plan
ATTACHMENTS
Pages
1 Resolution No. 2007-R057 1-2
2 SSMP Required Time Schedule 3
3 Culver City’s Final SSMP 4-35
4 Resolution No. 2009-RXXX 36-37
12Sewer System Management Plan (SSMP)
Time Schedule
Task and Associated WDR Section Due Date
SSMP Development Plan and Schedule
No Specific Section
November 2, 2007
Goal
Section D.13.i
November 2, 2007
Organization
Section D.13.ii
Legal Authority
Section D.13.iii
May 2, 2009
Operation and Maintenance Program
Section D.13.iv
Overflow Emergency Response Program
Section D.13.vi
FOG Control Program
Section D.13.vii
Design and Performance Provisions
Section D.13.v
August 2, 2009
System Evaluation and Capacity Assurance Plan
Section D.13.viii
Monitoring and Program Modifications
Section D.13.ix
Program Audits
Section D.13.x
Communication Program
Section D.13.xi
Final SSMP
3
Sewer System Management Plan
(SSMP)
in compliance with
Statewide General Waste Discharge Requirements
for Sanitary Sewer Systems
State Water Resources Control Board
Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ
July 2009
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Sewer System Management Plan (SSMP)
Table of Contents
CHAPTER PAGE
1.0 GOALS ................................................................................................................................. 1
2.0 ORGANIZATION ..................................................................................................................... 2
PART 2.a) Authorized Representative ......................................................................................... 2
PART 2.b) Organization Chart ............................................................................................ 2
PART 2.c) Chain of Communication .......................................................................................... 6
3.0 LEGAL AUTHORITY ................................................................................................................ 8
PART 3.a) Prevention ............................................................................................................ 8
PART 3.b) Proper Design & Construction ..................................................................................... 9
PART 3.c) Accessibility ............................................................................................................. 9
PART 3.d) Limiting the Discharge of FOG and other Debris ............................................................ 9
PART 3.e) Enforcement ........................................................................................................... 9
4.0 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE PROGRAM ............................................................................ 10
PART 4.a) Mapping System ..................................................................................................... 10
PART 4.b) Preventative Maintenance (PM) Program .................................................................. 10
PART 4.c) Rehabilitation and Replacement Plan ........................................................................ 12
PART 4.d) Staff Training ......................................................................................................... 12
PART 4.e) Equipment Maintenance and Replacement Policy ......................................................... 13
5.0 DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE PROVISIONS: .............................................................................. 14
PART 5.a) Design and Construction Standards and Specifications .................................................. 14
PART 5.b) Procedures and Standards for Inspection and Testing ..................................................... 14
6.0 OVERFLOW EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN ................................................................................. 15
Sanitary Sewage Systems Operational Procedures ....................................................................... 16
GENERAL RESPONSE PROCEDURES ........................................................................................ 16
INITIAL SPILL RESPONSE PROCEDURES .................................................................................... 17
STAGE I: SPILL RESPONSE PROCEDURES .................................................................................. 17
STAGE II: SPILL RESPONSE PROCEDURES ................................................................................... 19
STAGE III: SPILL RESPONSE PROCEDURES ................................................................................ 20
SPILL RESPONSE FOLLOW-UP ................................................................................................ 21
OUTSIDE RESOURCES CONTACT LIST ...................................................................................... 21
OUTSIDE AGENCY NOTIFICATION NUMBERS ............................................................................ 22
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Sewer System Management Plan (SSMP)
Table of Contents
CHAPTER PAGE
7.0 FOG CONTROL PROGRAM .................................................................................................... 23
PART 7.a) Public Education Outreach Program ........................................................................... 23
PART 7.b) Disposal .............................................................................................................. 23
PART 7.c) Legal Authority ....................................................................................................... 23
PART 7.d) Grease Removal Devices ........................................................................................ 24
PART 7.e) Authority to Inspect .............................................................................................. 24
PART 7.f) Cleaning Schedule ................................................................................................... 24
PART 7.g) Source Control Measures ......................................................................................... 24
8.0 SYSTEM EVALUATION AND CAPACITY ASSURANCE PLAN ............................................................ 25
PART 8.a) System Evaluation and Capacity Assurance ................................................................ 25
PART 8.b) Adequate Capacity and Correct Design ...................................................................... 25
PART 8.c) Capacity Enhancement ............................................................................................. 26
PART 8.d) CIP Schedule ........................................................................................................ 26
9.0 MONITORING, MEASUREMENT, AND PROGRAM MODIFICATIONS ................................................ 27
PART 9.a) Database & Record Keeping .................................................................................... 27
PART 9.b) Implementation and Effectiveness of SSMP ................................................................ 27
PART 9.c) Assessment of Preventative Maintenance Program ...................................................... 27
PART 9.d) Updates.............................................................................................................. 27
PART 9.e) Trending and Analysis of SSOs ................................................................................... 27
10.0 SSMP PROGRAM AUDITS ....................................................................................................... 28
PART 10.a) Program Audit .................................................................................................... 28
11.0 COMMUNICATION PROGRAM .............................................................................................. 29
PART 11.a) Communication .................................................................................................. 29
PART 11.b) Tributary & Satellite Communication ...................................................................... 29
APPENDIX A: SWRCB Order No. 2006-0003-DWQ
APPENDIX B: Culver City Equipment Inventory
APPENDIX C: Map of Culver City Yard & Pump Stations
APPENDIX D: Culver City Collection System Facility Inventory
APPENDIX E: Map of SSO Occurrences
APPENDIX F: SSO Table
APPENDIX G: Sewer Spill Form; Contractor’s List
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Sewer System Management Plan (SSMP)
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1.0 GOALS
The goal of the SSMP is to provide a plan and schedule to properly manage, operate, and maintain all
parts of the sanitary sewer system. This will help reduce and prevent SSOs, as well as mitigate any
SSOs that do occur.
The goals of the program are to ensure:
1. That Culver City collection system facilities are properly managed, operated, and maintained to
minimize SSOs and their impacts on receiving waters and on public health and safety;
2. That when SSOs do occur, that all feasible steps are taken to mitigate their impacts;
3. That SSOs are promptly reported to the appropriate regulatory authorities and the public is
adequately notified, and
4. That all SSOs, system deficiencies and remedial actions taken are well documented.
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Sewer System Management Plan (SSMP)
2
2.0 ORGANIZATION
a) The name of the responsible or authorized representative as described in Section J of this Order
(WDR).
b) The names and telephone numbers for management, administrative, and maintenance positions
responsible for implementing specific measures in the SSMP program. The SSMP must identify
lines of authority through an organization chart or similar document with a narrative explanation;
and
c) The chain of communication for reporting SSOs, from receipt of a complaint or other information,
including person responsible for reporting SSOs to the State and Regional Water Board and other
agencies if applicable (such as County Health Officer, County Environmental Health Agency,
Regional Water Board, and/or State Office of Emergency Services (OES)).
PART 2.a) Authorized Representative
The City has designated a Legally Responsible Official (LRO) pursuant to Section J., REPORT
DECLARATION, of the State General WDR (Order No. 2006-0003). Contact information for the City’s
LRO/Authorized Representative is provided below:
Mr. Charles D. Herbertson, P.E., P.L.S.
Director of Public Works/City Engineer
9700 Culver Boulevard, Culver City, CA 90232
(310) 253-5630; charles.herbertson@culvercity.org
PART 2.b) Organization Chart
The Director of Public Works is responsible for the execution of the compliance actions required under
the WDRs. This includes, but is not limited to, signing and certification of all reports and
correspondence as required under this Order. The Public Works’ Division Manager of Environmental
Programs and Operations and the Division Manager of Maintenance Operations may also perform these
duties on behalf of the Director of Public Works.
Mr. Damian Skinner
Environmental Programs & Operations Division Manager
9505 W. Jefferson Boulevard, Culver City, CA 90232
(310) 253-6421; damian.skinner@culvercity.org
Mr. Heustace Lewis
Maintenance Operations Division Manager
9505 W. Jefferson Boulevard, Culver City, CA 90232
(310) 253-6444; heustace.lewis@culvercity.org
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Sewer System Management Plan (SSMP)
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Staffing for sewer maintenance and operations consists of six budgeted positions in the Public Works Department as depicted in the
organization chart (highlighted boxes). These personnel provide preventative maintenance and assure operation of the collection system
as well as engineering services needed to evaluate the system for improvement and rehabilitation.
Public Works
Director/City Engineer
Environmental
Programs &
Operations Manager
Maintenance
Operations Manager
Engineering
Services Manager
Senior Engineer
Associate Engineer Public Works
Inspector
Maintenance
Supervisor
Sewer Crew
Leader
Sewer Lift Station
Electro Mechanic
Administrative
Secretary
Senior Engineer
Senior Management,
Management, & Associate
Analysts
Subdrain Worker Subdrain Worker Subdrain Worker Subdrain Worker
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Description of Responsibilities
The responsibilities (in respect to the SSO program) of each position shown on the Organization Chart are:
City Council
Responsible for establishing new laws and amending
existing regulations.
City Manager
The chief executive officer of the City. Provides
general direction to the Director of Public Works.
Receives broad policy direction from the City Council.
Public Works Department
Director of Public Works
Directs and administers the City's sewer maintenance
program within the scope of the City Manager’s
direction.
Maintenance Operations
Division
Maintenance Operations
Manager
Responsible for the day-to-day operation and
maintenance of the sanitary sewer collection system.
Also responsible for supervision of the field crews.
Sub Drain Crew Leader
Responsible for carrying out the tasks assigned by the
Public Works Maintenance Operations Manager,
including assigning specific tasks to crews. Maintains
and operates the City’s sewage collection system and
pump stations on a day to day basis.
Heavy Equipment
Operator(s)
Operates heavy equipment in the field.
Sewer Lift Station Electro
Mechanic
Responsible for the ongoing electrical and mechanical
maintenance of the City’s sewer lift stations.
Maintenance Workers
Conduct maintenance activities, including sewer
cleaning and regular inspections of the sanitary sewer
system.
Administrative Secretary
(Customer Service Staff)
Receive complaints and requests for investigation
from various sources and refer to appropriate staff.
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Description of Responsibilities
The responsibilities (in respect to the SSO program) of each position shown on the Organization Chart are:
Public Works Department
Environmental Programs and Operations
Division
Environmental Programs &
Operations Manager
Responsible for planning, organizing, coordinating and
directing the City’s SSMP under the overall direction
of Director of Public Works.
Senior Engineer
Responsible for conducting engineering reviews of the
sanitary sewer system for new and repaired sewer
lines to ensure compliance with applicable
regulations. Reports SSOs to Los Angeles Regional
Water Quality Control Board and Los Angeles County
Department of Public Health. Provides engineering
support and analysis relating to operation and
maintenance of the City’s sewer system.
Associate Engineer
Supports the Environmental Programs Division’s
efforts, including budget assistance, correspondence
and reports. Assists the Senior Engineer in performing
his/her duties.
Engineering
Division
Engineering Services
Manager
Responsible for the day-to-day operation of the
Engineering Division; implements direction from the
Public Works Director/City Engineer. Plans and
oversees capital improvements to the City’s sewer
system.
Senior Engineer
Manage capital improvement projects and review and
approve designs for new and repaired sewer lines and
pump stations
Sr. Management Analyst
Responsible for drafting the City’s draft Sewer Spill
Emergency Response plan and will assist staff to
finalize the plan.
Public Works Inspector
Conducts field inspections to ensure proper
construction of new and repaired sewer lines.
Management & Associate
Analysts
Provides support interface between the Engineering,
Maintenance Operations, and Environmental
Programs and Operations Divisions.
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Key Support Departments
Other City Departments and outside agencies are currently and will continue to be responsible for
carrying out some WDR compliance activities. The key support departments and their responsibilities
are described below:
• Building and Safety Division: responsible for issuing permits for sewer connections on private
property and for the enforcement of the Plumbing Codes involving proper connection,
maintenance of sewer house laterals and illegal discharges into the public sewers.
• County of Los Angeles, Dept. of Public Works – Industrial Waste: Culver City contracts with the
County of Los Angeles to administer the Culver City industrial waste program. The County’s
primary task in this capacity is the control of fats, oils and grease.
• County of Los Angeles, Dept. of Public Works – Flood Maintenance Division: would assist Culver
City in tracing, containing, and cleaning up of SSOs that reach the County-owned storm drain
system.
• Information Technology Division: maintains GIS and electronic mapping of the sewer system.
Also assist in maintenance and trouble shooting of computer and communication systems that
monitor sewer pump stations and alert staff of system alarms.
• Human Resources Division: responsible for recruitment and securing staff.
• City Attorney’s Office: provides legal support and assistance in developing adequate legal
authority to regulate illegal discharges into the sewer system and assists in prosecuting
violators.
PART 2.c) Chain of Communication
SSO NOTIFICATION CONTACT NUMBERS
AGENCY INFO
CATEGORY 1 CATEGORY 2
>1,000 gallons,
&/or not all
contained
<1,000 gallons &
all contained
State Water Resources Control Board
(SWRCB)
Submit info on this page at
http://ciwqs.waterboards.ca.gov/
ASAP 30 days
State of CA / Office of Emergency
Services (OES)
(800) 852-7550 Immediately --
Los Angeles Regional Water Quality
Control Board (LARWQCB)
(213) 576-6720
(213) 620-6140; fax written notification
Immediately --
Department of Health Services (DHS)
(213) 974-1234
(626) 430-5420
Immediately Immediately
Los Angeles County Flood Control
District
(818) 896-0594
(818) 248-3842; business hours only
Immediately --
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CULVER CITY SSO PROCEDURES FLOW CHART
SSO Occurs
After Hours?
YES NO
Detected by Public
or Telemetry?
Detected by Public
or Telemetry?
Public:
Call received by Fire
Dept. FD calls PW
emergency numbers,
then responds to
location.
Telemetry:
System calls pager
carried by on-call
Sewer Maintenance
Staff
Public:
Call forwarded to
Public Works
Telemetry:
System calls pagers
carried by Sewer
Maintenance Staff
On-Call Sewer Crew is
dispatched to the SSO
location for
investigation.
Nearest Sewer Crew is
dispatched to the SSO
location for
investigation.
Sewer Crew calls for
help if needed and
stops/contains the SSO.
City Sewer?
Sewer Crew initiates
clean-up activities and
contacts members of
the EPO Division to
make notifications
(see table above)
Sewer Crew contacts
responsible agency for
clean-up and reporting
YES NO
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3.0 LEGAL AUTHORITY
a) Prevent illicit discharges into its sanitary sewer system (examples may include I/I, stormwater,
chemical dumping, unauthorized debris and cut roots, etc.);
b) Require that sewers and connections be properly designed and constructed;
c) Ensure access for maintenance, inspection, or repairs for portions of the lateral owned or
maintained by the Public Agency;
d) Limit the discharge of fats, oils, and grease and other debris that may cause blockages, and
e) Enforce any violation of its sewer ordinances.
The Culver City City Council has the authority to make and enforce all rule and regulations necessary for
the cleaning, repair, construction, reconstruction, renewal, replacement, operation, and maintenance of
collection sewers within the City.
The Culver City Municipal Code (CCMC) Chapter 5.02: Sewers and Chapter 5.05 Stormwater and Urban
Runoff Pollution Control have been adopted by City Council to govern aspects of Culver City sewer
operations. The legal authorities for the specific areas stipulated in the WDRs are discussed below. The
codes, standard plans, specifications and other materials cited in this chapter are filed at the office of
the Director or Public Works/City Engineer.
PART 3.a) Prevention
CCMC Section 5.02.410.A provides that the City’s collection system will accept liquid wastes provided
the wastes will not:
1. Damage structures;
2. Create nuisances such as odors;
3. Menace public health;
4. Impose unreasonable collection, treatment or disposal costs on the City;
5. Interfere with wastewater treatment processes;
6. Exceed quality requirements set by regulatory government agencies; or
7. Detrimentally affect the local environment.
To further regulate sewer discharges, CCMC Section 5.02.410.B adopted the following provisions of the
County of Los Angeles Code Title 20:
Chapter 20.20, Sections 20.20.010 through 20.20.420, Definitions;
Chapter 20.24, Sections 20.24.010 through 20.24.210, General Provisions;
Chapter 20.32, Sections 20.32.440 and 20.32.640 through 20.32.690, Sanitary Sewers;
Chapter 20.36, Sections 20.36.010 through 20.36.550, Industrial Waste.
All of the above provide adequate legal authority to prevent infiltration and inflow, stormwater,
chemical dumping, unauthorized debris and cut roots, etc.
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PART 3.b) Proper Design & Construction
CCMC Section 5.02.020, Connection Specifications, provides construction specifications for the
construction of connections to any City sewer. The City has adopted the Standard Specifications for
Public Works Construction (SSPWC). The SSPWC is used for the construction of all sewer facilities
constructed in the public right-of-way and inspections are performed by City staff through the Public
Works Encroachment Permit process authorized by CCMC Section 5.02.005.
PART 3.c) Accessibility
Through adoption of the portions of Title 20, Division 2 of the Los Angeles County Code, Culver City has
the legal right to set requirements that allow unrestricted maintenance access to public sewer
infrastructure. This access is secured through enforcement of the requirement for sewer easements
around all public sewer appurtenances located in private properties and through prescriptive
easements. These easements are detailed by the designer on the sewer construction plans and are
reviewed through the iterative plan check process. Plan checkers take special care to ensure that
maintenance crews will have room for access and equipment usage for both routine maintenance and
replacement or repair construction as necessary. The Title 20 requirements to leave these easements
free of obstruction are also reiterated on all sewer plans that contain easements, and the potential for
conflict or restriction of access is reviewed carefully during plan check.
PART 3.d) Limiting the Discharge of FOG and other Debris
Culver City, under CCMC 5.02.410 and LACO Code Section 20.36.400, prohibits the discharge of wastes
that will damage the system or cause interference with conveyance or treatment processes.
Additionally, non-residential discharges are specifically subject to additional regulation as may be
required to protect the sewer system or to maintain its operation. Additional regulation would take the
form of the installation of grease interceptors at restaurants and other food establishments that
generate grease. Through adoption of LACO Code Section 20.24.090, Culver City has the legal authority
to inspect main-line sewers, sewage pumping plants, interceptors etc., as often as deems necessary to
verify that such facilities are maintained and operated in accordance with the provisions of Division 2 of
LACO Code.
Lastly, Culver City contracts with the County of Los Angeles Department of Industrial Waste (LACDIW)
for the control of deleterious substances. LACDIW administers the Industrial Waste Permit program in
Culver City that reviews development plans and requires pre-treatment devices where warranted.
LACDIW also administers the commercial site inspection program used to verify compliance with permit
conditions and to verify proper maintenance of pretreatment devices.
PART 3.e) Enforcement
Under CCMC 5.02.410C and Section 20.24.100 of the LACO Code, the Director of Public Works/City
Engineer is empowered to enforce all the requirements prescribed in Division 2 – Sanitary Sewers and
Industrial Waste of the LACO Code and in accordance with section 20.24.110 may delegate this
authority. LACO Code Section 20.24.160 allows criminal penalties for any violations of the Sewer and
Industrial Waste Ordinances.
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4.0 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE PROGRAM
a) Maintain an up-to-date map of the sanitary sewer system, showing all gravity line segments and
manholes, pumping facilities, pressure pipes and valves, and applicable stormwater conveyance
facilities;
b) Describe routine preventative operation and maintenance activities by staff and contractors,
including a system for scheduling regular maintenance and cleaning of the sanitary sewer system
with more frequent cleaning and maintenance targeted at known problem areas. The
Preventative Maintenance (PM) program should have a system to document schedule and
conducted activities, such as work orders;
c) Develop a rehabilitation and replacement plan to identify and prioritize system deficiencies and
implement short-term and long-term rehabilitation actions to address each deficiency. The
program should include regular visual and TV inspections of manholes and sewer pipes, and a
system for ranking the condition of sewer pipes and scheduling rehabilitation. Rehabilitation and
replacement should focus on sewer pipes that are at risk of collapse or prone to more frequent
blockages due to pipe defects. Finally, the rehabilitation and replacement plan should include a
capital improvement plan that addresses proper management and protection of the infrastructure
assets. The plan shall include a time schedule for implementing the short- and long-term plans
plus a schedule for developing the funds needed for the capital improvement plan;
d) Provide training on a regular basis for staff in sanitary sewer system operations and maintenance,
and require contractors to be appropriately trained; and
e) Provide equipment and replacement part inventories, including identification of critical
replacement parts.
PART 4.a) Mapping System
As-built plans of Culver City sewer facilities are maintained by the Engineer Division of the Public Works
Department. Record drawings for most of the collection system and pump stations have been scanned
and are available through the City’s computer network. The City also maintains a GIS system with a
sewer GIS layer. Plans are available and can be accessed through the GIS system as well. The plans
provide information such as system locations and alignment, pipe material and size, etc. Original Mylars
and linens are stored in the Engineering Division Office in City Hall located at 9770 Culver Boulevard,
Culver City, California. These maps are distributed to field crews, for work scheduling and for
responding to emergencies. The maps are updated to reflect any changes in the system.
A map showing the locations of Culver City field maintenance yard and pump stations is presented in
Appendix C. Following the map is an inventory of Culver City collection system facilities, Appendix D.
PART 4.b) Preventative Maintenance (PM) Program
Culver City maintenance services and SSO responses are provided from the Culver City Maintenance
Facility located at 9505 Jefferson Boulevard in Culver City. The maintenance crews are equipped with
some of the latest technologies in the industry including radio equipped trucks for easy communication,
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11
cellular phones, heavy and light construction equipment, vacuum trucks, pumps, generators, close
circuit television units for interior inspection of sewer lines and various types of safety equipment. A
complete inventory of Culver City equipment is presented in Appendix B.
The cornerstone of Culver City maintenance operation is the preventive maintenance program. This
program consists of regular inspection of the sewer system including manholes, pipes, siphons, and
pump stations and regular cleaning, repair, replacement of equipment and other related activities. This
program is designed and carried out to detect and correct potential problems before they develop into
major problems. The following is a summary of the key preventive maintenance activities and where
applicable, frequencies for these services have been included:
• Sewer Line and Manhole Inspection
The interior and exterior of manholes are inspected at least annually to detect any structural
defects, sewage flow condition, presence of vermin or rodents, deleterious industrial waste, odors
and any signs of unusual settlement within sewer manholes maintained by Culver City. These
inspections are performed when sewer line cleaning is performed.
• Gas Trap Manholes and Siphons
On a monthly basis, these facilities are inspected and cleared of any stoppages or flow restrictions.
• Drop Manholes
These facilities are inspected and cleared of stoppages and flow restrictions on variable frequencies
based on prior inspection records.
• Sewer Line Cleaning
Sewer lines are cleaned by hydro jet or rodding. Frequency of cleaning is based on inspection
records. Sewer lines known to accumulate grease, garbage grinds or sand are put on, quarterly,
semi-annual or annual cleaning schedule, and those prone to root growth are periodically rodded or
chemically treated.
• Vermin and Rodent Control
Sewers infested by insects are chemically treated. Those infested by rodents are baited.
• Sewage Pump Station
The City operates 7 sewer pump stations. All pump stations are equipped with telemetry/alarm
systems and are inspected weekly. Pumps and motors are lubricated, control mechanisms and
valves are checked and adjusted as necessary, and equipment is repaired or modified as required.
Routine maintenance of pump stations is scheduled through the Maintenance Management System
(MMS - MaintStar).
• Work Scheduling
Most work orders are generated and tracked using the Department’s Maintenance Management
System. The current system was developed and installed by MaintStar. Maintenance regimens
have been developed based on past maintenance history and work orders are automatically issued
by the system. When work orders are complete, field staff acknowledges completion on the MMS.
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PART 4.c) Rehabilitation and Replacement Plan
Sewer facilities assessment and rehabilitation are an integral part of Culver City’s preventive sewer
maintenance program. Through the condition assessment described below, the City identifies portions
of the system that require rehabilitation or replacement. Ongoing projects that complete localized
sewer pipe repair of trenchless repair or lining are completed annually. Additionally, significant
investment in system redundancy will occur in Fiscal years 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013. Modifications to
pump stations and construction of redundant force mains will be completed to provide a more failsafe
system.
Most pipelines within Culver City are made of vitrified clay and range in diameter from six to fifteen
inches. As the sewer collection system ages, the risk of failure increases. Issues of concern include
deterioration, collapse, blockage, excessive inflow and infiltration, overflow, and other potential service
interruptions.
In an effort to overcome these challenges the City has inspected all 85 miles of sewer lines since 2000
using a video inspection service. An accelerated CCTV inspection program is planned starting in FY 2009-
10. Based on these inspections, the City has embarked on an aggressive program of spot repair, pipe
lining and manhole rehabilitation. In an effort to further comply with the WDRs, the City plans to
inspect at least 10% (8.5 miles) of collection sewers annually. Repair and rehabilitation projects are
identified and prioritized based on these CCTV inspections.
Maintenance history, past overflow records, sewer locations, and age will be some of the factors used to
prioritize the CCTV schedule. The City’s GIS system is being upgraded to include CCTV record access
through the GIS system which will make the CCTV records easily accessible to maintenance staff.
In 1987, Culver City established the Sewer Enterprise Fund for the maintenance and improvement of the
collection system. Many miles of sewer lines have been rehabilitated by lining or reconstruction. In
addition, some deteriorated lines are discovered during preventive maintenance televising of problem
sewer lines. These lines are either immediately repaired by City crews or by emergency contractors or
are added to the list of future Capital Improvement Programs (CIPs). In compliance with WDR’s, all
sewer pipe segments within Culver City found to have structural deficiencies will continue to be
rehabilitated or reconstructed through the Sewer CIP. Many hydraulic deficiencies within the system
have been addressed through previous projects.
PART 4.d) Staff Training
Culver City staff responsible for the operation and maintenance of the sewer collection system and City
inspectors and engineering staff are well versed in sewer construction standards developed by the
American Public Works Association. City maintenance crews attend training provided by California
Occupational, Safety and Health Administration (CALOSHA), and City engineers attend training provided
by California Water Environment Association (CWEA). These trainings will keep them abreast with the
latest technology in the industry on how to safely and efficiently carry out their tasks. The District also
utilizes informal training approaches, such as tailgate meetings and safety meetings.
Additionally, sewer construction in Culver City can be performed only by construction companies with
verified successful experience working on sewer facilities.
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PART 4.e) Equipment Maintenance and Replacement Policy
Culver City has a comprehensive equipment maintenance program. Equipment is regularly checked,
adjusted, repaired or replaced as necessary. Maintenance is performed by staff mechanics according to
manufacturer-recommended maintenance regimens. Equipment replacement is accomplished through
an equipment replacement fund. Funds are set aside annually based on estimated equipment life and
replacement cost.
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5.0 DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE PROVISIONS:
a) Design and construction standards and specifications for the installation of new sanitary sewer
systems, pump stations and other appurtenances; and for the rehabilitation and repair of existing
sanitary sewer systems; and
b) Procedures and standards for inspecting and testing the installation of new sewers, pumps, and
other appurtenances and for rehabilitation and repair projects.
PART 5.a) Design and Construction Standards and Specifications
All sewer construction in Culver City must be performed according to the Standard Plans and
Specifications for Public Works Construction developed by the American Public Works Association. The
use of these standards ensures that sewer lines and connections are properly designed and constructed.
To further assure that sewer facilities are properly designed and constructed, Culver City requires that
plans are designed by licensed engineers and provides thorough review of plans prior to approval.
APWA Greenbook standards and specifications are used in the construction of sewer facilities and
registered civil engineers must design any proposed sewers. Projects initiated and funded by the City
are designed either by City engineers or, where additional expertise is required, consultant engineering
support is used.
PART 5.b) Procedures and Standards for Inspection and Testing
The Culver City Public Works Department provides inspection for the installation of new and
rehabilitation of deteriorated collection sewer facilities within the City. City inspectors and staff are well
trained in pipeline and pump station construction. They attend training classes and educational
seminars to stay familiar with advancements in the industry. The inspectors are also provided with
adequate materials to perform their jobs, including the Standard Specification for Public Works
Construction Inspection Manual, the Green Book, etc. The City requires the preparation and submittal
of “As-Built” plans of completed projects prior to final approval and acceptance of the project as public
infrastructure.
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6.0 OVERFLOW EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN
a) Proper notification procedures so that the primary responders and regulatory agencies are
informed of all SSOs in a timely manner;
b) A program to ensure an appropriate response to all overflows;
c) Procedures to ensure prompt notification to appropriate regulatory agencies and other potentially
affected entities (e.g. health agencies, Regional Water Boards, water suppliers, etc.) of all SSOs
that potentially affect public health or reach the waters of the State in accordance with the MRP.
All SSOs shall be reported in accordance with this MRP, the California Water Code, other State
Law, and other applicable Regional Water Board WDRs or NPDES permit requirements. The SSMP
should identify the officials who will receive immediate notification;
d) Procedures to ensure that appropriate staff and contractor personnel are aware of and follow the
Emergency Response Plan and are appropriately trained;
e) Procedures to address emergency operations, such as traffic and crowd control and other
necessary response activities; and
f) A program to ensure that all reasonable steps are taken to contain and prevent the discharge of
untreated and partially treated wastewater to waters of the United States and to minimize or
correct any adverse impact on the environment resulting from the SSOs, including such
accelerated or additional monitoring as may be necessary to determine the nature and impact of
the discharge.
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Sanitary Sewage Systems Operational Procedures
The City’s sanitary sewer system is maintained by the Sewer Maintenance Division of the Public Works
Department. The system is designed to transport wastewater to Force Main operated by the City of Los
Angeles for further transportation, treatment and eventual discharge to Hyperion Treatment Plant.
Failure at any points within either the Culver City’s or the City of Los Angeles’ system can result in a spill
of raw sewage which could threaten public health and contaminate the environment. The same threat-
scenario is true of spills that may originate from private disposal systems (septic tanks and/or cesspools)
or private property (blocked or failed private property sewer laterals).
Purpose: to reduce the potential impact of City sanitary sewage system operations on storm water
quality, to the maximum extent practicable, by ensuring that:
1) sewage system overflows or leaks do not enter the storm drainage system,
2) potential and actual sanitary sewage blockages are remediated and suspected cross-connections are
investigated, and
3) public health officials are notified when there is a threat to public health.
Scope: These operational procedures are applicable for all sanitary sewer pipes and pump stations
owned by the City. In addition, the “Spill Response” provisions shall also pertain for all private facility or
other agency discharges that threaten to enter the City’s storm drainage system or other receiving
waters.
GENERAL RESPONSE PROCEDURES
The three fundamental phases of all responses to a sanitary sewer spill are: contain, control, and
cleanup.
The first personnel on scene are to contain the spill or, in other words, to keep it from entering the
storm drainage system or other receiving waters. This may be done in any number of ways, including
the use of sand or soil dikes, sand bags, or by plugging the outlet pipe of a catch basin.
Once the spill is contained, it needs to be brought under control. That is, the impacted line must be
relived (the blockage removed) or bypassed (pumped to the next flowing manhole) if the line has failed.
The third and final step of the response is cleanup. All surfaces touched by the spill must be washed
down, disinfected and the run-off contained and removed for proper disposal.
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INITIAL SPILL RESPONSE PROCEDURES
1. The Director of Public Works or designee thereof shall be immediately dispatched to the site to take
control of the scene as the Incident Commander. Field crews will be immediately prepared to
respond with all available equipment including diking materials, sewer bypass pumps, vacuum truck
and traffic control equipment.
2. The Incident Commander shall assess the magnitude of the spill by estimating the gallons per
minute of the flow or by the accumulation of spillage. If any sewage enters the storm drain system,
immediately notify the L.A. County Department of Health Services, L.A. County Public Works, Flood
Control Division and the L.A. Regional Water Quality Control Board. The State Office of Emergency
Services must be notified if the spill, in the Incident Commander’s discretion, presents a hazard to
human health or the environment.
3. Based on his/her assessment of the situation, the Incident Commander shall declare the spill either
a Stage I, Stage II, or Stage III spill in accordance with the following parameters:
• Stage I: restrictions causing a flow rate contained in the manhole or overflowing at a rate not to
exceed 5 gallons per minute (gpm).
• Stage II: blockage or restriction causing overflow at a rate from 5-25 gpm.
• Stage III: blockage or restriction causing overflow exceeding 25 gpm.
STAGE I: SPILL RESPONSE PROCEDURES
1. Immediately notify the sanitary sewer systems supervisor, who in this case should act as the
Incident Commander. Incident Commander shall immediately notify the appropriate
department/division managers and the Stormwater Program Manager at (310) 253-6445.
2. Contain the spillage immediately by building berms around the spills using sandbags and vac truck.
Block openings of nearby storm drain catch basins using sandbags. If necessary, set up the bypass
pump, and pump to a downstream sewer manhole. If any wastewater inevitably enters the storm
drain, build a temporary dam (using sandbags) in downstream storm drain system, to avoid
wastewater entering the receiving waters.
3. Determine the generation point of the spill (Culver City line, City of Los Angeles Trunk line, or private
property). If City generated, clear the restriction and proceed to Step 6. If City of Los Angeles
generated, contact City of Los Angeles Bureau of Sanitation, clear the restriction, and proceed to
Step 4. If generated from private property, contact the property’s occupant of their responsibility to
control the discharge and proceed to Step 5. If the occupant refuses to comply, contact Code
Enforcement (310-253-5940), or the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services at (626)
430-5360.
4. City of Los Angeles Spills – City staff should continue to maintain containment of the spill, and seek
to clear the restriction, until City of Los Angeles crews arrive. Once City of Los Angeles crews are on
scene, the City of Los Angeles is responsible for clearing the blockage (if not done already) and for
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cleanup, but the Incident Commander maintains responsibility for ensuring that the area is returned
to its natural state. At the discretion of the City’s Incident Commander, City crews may be required
to assist in these operations. Proceed to Step 6.
5. Private Property Spills – City staff should continue to monitor the spill, how the spill is contained,
and how materials are disposed. Ensure proper containment and cleanup. If the spill should reach
the public right-of-way, it is then the City’s responsibility to ensure that the spill is contained and
that proper cleanup measures are completed. Proceed to Step 6.
6. Take photographs of the spill and include them for review by the NPDES Coordinator and
Department Head. If the spill did not generate from private property but has entered private
property, a copy of the report and photos must be forwarded to Risk Management. Staff will
request permission of the occupant of the private property before taking any pictures on private
property. Confine pictures to only the areas affected by the spill.
7. Investigate the overflow incident and develop a written chronology that describes: 1) the cause of
the overflow/spill; 2) approximate volume of the spill (and the volume, if any, that entered the
storm drain system); 3) overflow/spill route; 4) storm drain catch basins that were compromised; 5)
events and actions that led up to the spill; 6) time and date of events; 7) names and titles of
personnel present on scene of spill/overflow; and 8) actions taken to correct the situation, including
containing the overflow as well as remediation. This information is required for Department
records. If the spill occurs in a business area, or if it is suspected to have been the result of a
commercial or business activity, contact the City’s Stormwater Program Manager at (310) 253-6445
to assist with the investigation.
8. Clean up the spill area and remove containment. Appropriately dispose of contaminated sandbags.
Leave the area as clean as practicable. When washing down contaminated areas or streets, block all
nearby storm drain catch basin openings with sandbags to prevent wash water from entering the
storm drain system. Usually, low concentration (20:1) bleach solution is used for disinfection and
for odor removal. Place temporary dikes using sandbags to capture runoff and vacuum up all run-off
from surfaces that were in contact with the spill. Emphasis should be placed on removing all
materials that are in or around the contaminated area. If storm drain system was compromised
with wastewater, a professional cleaning company should be contacted to flush out the system with
clean water (no chemicals). A temporary dam will be erected downstream to capture wash water
until it is vacuuming extracted. Under no circumstance is disinfectant-contaminated water
allowed to enter a catch basin. All such water must be removed from the site (i.e. vacuumed up)
and properly disposed of.
9. Check and clear downstream manholes. It is possible that debris may accumulate at the next
downstream manhole following a backup. Always check the lower manhole to ensure that the line
is flowing properly.
10. The Incident Commander must fill out a Sewer Spill Report form.
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STAGE II: SPILL RESPONSE PROCEDURES
1. Immediately notify the sanitary sewer systems supervisor, who in this case should act as the
Incident Commander.
2. Berm the sewage flow with sandbags, block all storm drainage inlets and set up to start pumping to
the closest clear manhole as soon as possible.
3. Incident Commander shall immediately notify the appropriate department/division managers and
the Stormwater Program Manager at (310) 253-6445. All major decisions, especially those that
could potentially compromise worker safety or the City’s liability should have clearance from Senior
Civil Engineer (in charge of Waste Discharge Requirement associated with Sanitary Sewer System),
Maintenance Operations Manager, and/or Director of Public Works prior to implementation.
4. In addition, the Incident Commander shall:
• Request assistance of other agencies and/or contract firms for additional pumps to stabilize the
situation. See pages 8 to 10 for list of phone numbers.
• Contact the Stormwater Program Manager at (310) 253-6445.
o The Stormwater Program Manager will contact the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality
Control Board (213-576-6600), California Coastal Commission (805-585-1816 or 562-
590-5071), and California Department of Fish and Game (562-708-7757), if needed.
• Contact City Fire HazMat (310-253-6248) and request assistance with appropriate agency
notifications and initial emergency response.
o City Fire HazMat will contact Los Angeles County Fire Department (Health HazMat), and
in case of emergency or if spill exceeds 1,000 gallons, the Governor’s Office of
Emergency Services (OES, 800-852-7550), and in case spill enters the storm drain
system, Los Angeles County Department of Health Services (626-430-5360, or for after
hours, 213-974-1234).
• Contact Police Dispatch (310-253-6248; x6202 watch commander; x6805 for 24-hr battalion)
and request assistance with traffic control, if needed.
5. Make all notifications as specified within Stage I response plan.
6. If spill exceeds 5 g.p.m. for three (3) hours or twenty-five (25) g.p.m. for one (1) hour, immediately
move to Stage III.
7. Complete Steps 3 through 10 of Stage I Response.
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STAGE III: SPILL RESPONSE PROCEDURES
1. Immediately notify the sanitary sewer systems supervisor, who in this case should act as the
Incident Commander.
2. Berm the sewage flow with sandbags, block all storm drainage inlets and set up to start pumping to
the closest clear manhole as soon as possible.
3. Sanitary sewer systems supervisor shall immediately contact Yard for additional personnel and
equipment to assist with clean up and spill containment.
4. Sanitary sewer systems supervisor shall immediately notify the appropriate managers in the
following order: Maintenance Operations Manager (x6444), the Senior Civil Engineer in charge of
the Waste Discharge Requirement for sanitary sewer system (x5604), and Director of Public Works
(x5630). The managers will:
• Choose, among the managers, an Incident Commander and send immediately to the incident
location to coordinate and oversee the incident (in the interim, until the arrival of a manager-
Incident Commander, the sanitary sewer supervisor shall act as the Incident Commander);
• Request assistance of other agencies and/or contract firms for additional pumps to stabilize the
situation. See page 6 for list of phone numbers.
• Contact the Stormwater Program Manager at (310) 253-6445.
o The Stormwater Program Manager will contact the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality
Control Board (213-576-6600), California Coastal Commission (805-585-1816 or 562-
590-5071), and California Department of Fish and Game (562-708-7757).
• Contact City Fire HazMat (310-253-6248) and request assistance with appropriate agency
notifications and initial emergency response.
o City Fire HazMat will contact Los Angeles County Fire Department (Health HazMat), and
in case of emergency or if spill exceeds 1,000 gallons, the Governor’s Office of
Emergency Services (OES, 800-852-7550), and in case spill enters the storm drain
system, Los Angeles County Department of Health Services (626-430-5360, or for after
hours, 213-974-1234).
• Contact Police Dispatch (310-253-6248; x6202 watch commander; x6805 for 24-hr battalion)
and request assistance with traffic control, if needed.
5. Perform Steps 3 through 10 of Stage I. All major decisions, especially those that could potentially
compromise worker safety or the City’s liability should have clearance from managers prior to
implementation.
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SPILL RESPONSE FOLLOW-UP
1. File completed Sewage Spill Reporting Form and photographs with the City’s Stormwater Program
Manager.
2. For spills involving 1,000 gallons or more, the Storm Water Program Manager will immediately file a
verbal report with the Office of Emergency Services. For spills entering the storm drain, the Storm
Water Program Manager will immediately file a verbal report with the Los Angeles County
Department of Health Services and Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board. Verbal
reports to all agencies shall be followed up within 1 week by submitting to the agencies a required
written report that includes the Sewage Spill Reporting Form and photographs within 1 week of the
spill. The report must contain the following information:
3. Determine cause of overflow or spill and ascertain whether pump station or sewer line(s) need to be
placed on a higher maintenance schedule or if capital repairs are needed.
• Estimated volume of spill and amount that was discharged to surface waters (i.e. into storm
drains and/or channels).
• A discussion of the circumstances that caused the spill.
• A discussion on the impacts on public health or environment resulting from the spill and
corrective actions taken to mitigate the effects.
OUTSIDE RESOURCES CONTACT LIST
Sewage Spill Response Companies
Allwaste
2222 E. Sepulveda Boulevard
Carson, CA 90810
(310) 595-1000
Ocean Blue (Environmental Services, Inc.)
925 W. Esther Street
Long Beach, CA 90813
(562) 624-4120
Baker Tanks
5500 Rawlings Avenue
South Gate, CA 90280
(562) 904-3680
United Pumping Service, Inc.
14016 E. Valley Boulevard
City of Industry, CA 91746
(818) 961-9326
National Plant Services
1461 Harbor Avenue
Long Beach, CA 90813
(562) 436-7600
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OUTSIDE AGENCY NOTIFICATION NUMBERS
A. City of Los Angeles
a. If spill is originating from a City of Los Angeles Trunk Line
City of Los Angeles – Bureau of Sanitation
Phone: (213) 485-7575 (Sewage Spill Hotline Main #)
Phone: (213) 485-5391 (Sewage Spill Hotline Weekdays, 6:30AM – 1:00AM)
Phone: (310) 823-5507; (310) 822-0777 (Night Emergencies, 1:00AM – 6:30AM)
B. County of Los Angeles
a. When sewage enters storm drain system:
L.A. County Department of Public Works
Floor Maintenance Division
Phone: (800) 675-4357, ext. #1
b. Call ONLY if storm drain is compromised or if spills enter receiving water(s):
L.A. County Department of Health Services
Phone: (626) 430-5360
After hours: (213) 974-1234
C. State Office of Emergency Services
a. If spill exceeds 1,000 gallons or presents hazard to human health or environment
Hazardous Spills Notification
Phone: (800) 852-7550
D. Other Agencies (to request assistance)
a. City of Los Angeles: (213) 485-7575
b. County of Los Angeles: (800) 675-HELP (4357)
c. City of Hawthorne: (213) 216-2356 (Richard Carver)
d. City of El Segundo: (310) 524-2760
e. City of Manhattan Beach: (310) 802-5320; (310) 345-2442 (Justin Gervais)
MB Police Station: (310) 802-5100
E. Regional Water Quality Control Board
a. When sewage spill enters the storm drain system or Ballona Creek/Marina del Rey
Harbor
Technical Support Unit – Spills Report Duty Officer
(213) 576-6720, if no answer, (213) 576-6600
After hours: (213) 774-4238
Fax: (213) 576-6640
F. California Coastal Commission
a. (805) 585-1816; (562) 590-5071
G. California Department of Fish and Game
a. (562) 708-7757
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7.0 FOG CONTROL PROGRAM
a) An implementation plan and schedule for a public education outreach program that promotes
proper disposal of FOG;
b) A plan and schedule for the disposal of FOG generated within the sanitary sewer system service
area. This may include a list of acceptable disposal facilities and/or additional facilities needed to
adequately dispose of FOG generated within a sanitary sewer system service area;
c) The legal authority to prohibit discharge to the system and identify measures to prevent SSOs and
blockages caused by FOG;
d) Requirements to install grease removal devices (such as traps or interceptors), design standards
for the removal devices, maintenance requirements, BMP requirements, record keeping and
reporting requirements;
e) Authority to inspect grease producing facilities, enforcement authorities, and whether the
Enrollee has sufficient staff to inspect and enforce the FOG ordinance;
f) An identification of sanitary sewer system sections subject to FOG blockages and establishment of
a cleaning maintenance schedule for each section; and
g) Development and implementation of source control measures for all sources of FOG discharged to
the sanitary sewer system for each section identified in (f) above.
PART 7.a) Public Education Outreach Program
Culver City contracts with the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works Industrial Waste Unit
(County Industrial Waste) to implement its FOG program. Industrial Waste staff inspects restaurants
and industrial facilities to assure that appropriate grease interception devices are installed and
maintained. Inspectors provide information on proper installation, maintenance and operation of
pretreatment facilities. Industrial Waste staff also review development plans to determine and require
pretreatment facilities if they are deemed necessary. City staff work closely with Industrial Waste staff
and assist with enforcement actions when needed.
PART 7.b) Disposal
Solidified fats found in the collection system during cleaning operations are trapped, collected and taken
to the maintenance yard dump bins. These and other debris collected from the system are properly
disposed of. FOG in liquid form is flushed down by hydro jetting to City of Los Angeles’ treatment
facilities for treatment and disposal.
PART 7.c) Legal Authority
The legal authority to prohibit discharges of FOG into the sewer system is discussed in Chapter 3 of this
document. Requiring grease interceptors at food establishments to prevent the discharge of grease to
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the collection sewer system and educating the public on proper disposal methods for FOG are also
discussed above.
PART 7.d) Grease Removal Devices
As provided in CCMC Section 5.02.410.B, the Director of Public Works is authorized to enforce Title 20,
Division 2, Section 20.24.100. Pretreatment devices are required for industrial waste generating
facilities, including restaurants and other food establishments. They are required to be designed in
accordance with County Industrial Waste standards and installed and operated in a manner to control
discharges of FOG into the sanitary sewer system. If there is a FOG related problem associated with an
industrial waste permit, City staff will take enforcement action against the permittee.
The City does not issue permits or inspect domestic sewage disposal to the sanitary sewer system.
However, the LACO Code prohibits the discharge of “any material which may create a public nuisance,
or menace to the public health or safety, or which may pollute underground or surface waters, or which
may cause damage to any storm-drain channel or public or private property” (Section 20.36.010). If
during inspection of the sanitary sewer system Sewer Maintenance determines that a FOG related
problem exists and is traceable to a domestic sewage source of such character that is not satisfactory
(Section 20.20.100), under the County Code, pretreatment could be required or the discharge required
to be eliminated. Domestic waste containing FOG can lead to SSOs which are public nuisances, and
California Health and Safety Code Division 5, Part 3, Chapter 6, Article 2 can also be used to impose
appropriate domestic sewage discharge requirements.
PART 7.e) Authority to Inspect
As discussed in Chapter 3 of this document Culver City has the legal authority to inspect and enforce the
Los Angeles County FOG ordinances. As mentioned above, the City has contracted with County
Industrial Waste. County Industrial Waste has adequate staff to conduct inspections of pretreatment
facilities at all permitted food establishments within Culver City through a permit program. Fees
generated through the permit program fund the City FOG program.
PART 7.f) Cleaning Schedule
Experience has shown that FOG contributes to about 30% of the total number of SSOs that occur in
Culver City sewer collection system. The remaining 70% is attributable to tree root intrusion into the
system and other causes. As indicated in Chapter 4 of this document, FOG prone sections of the
collection system are identified during routine maintenance operations and investigation of stoppages
and SSOs. These are typically cleaned by hydro jetting and rodding if tree roots are encountered. Those
portions of the system found to have persistent FOG problems are cleaned quarterly or more frequently
if required. Furthermore, areas of the collection system with persistent FOG problems are referred to
County Industrial Waste for additional investigation and enforcement actions.
PART 7.g) Source Control Measures
The County Industrial Waste program investigates and identifies the FOG blockage. Once the source is
discovered, proper steps are taken to ensure SSO does not occur. Such source control measures include
pretreatment systems (or a larger system) or having the grease cleaned/hauled away more often.
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8.0 SYSTEM EVALUATION AND CAPACITY ASSURANCE PLAN
a) Evaluation: Actions needed to evaluate those portions of the sanitary sewer system that are
experiencing or contributing to an SSO discharge caused by hydraulic deficiency. The evaluation
must provide estimates of peak flows (including flows from SSOs that escape from the system)
associated with conditions similar to those causing overflow events, estimates of the capacity of
key system components, hydraulic deficiencies (including components of the system with limiting
capacity) and the major sources that contribute to the peak flows associated with overflow
events;
b) Design Criteria: Where design criteria do not exist or are deficient, undertake the evaluation
identified in (a) above to establish appropriate design criteria; and
c) Capacity Enhancement Measures: The steps needed to establish a short- and long-term CIP to
address identified hydraulic deficiencies, including prioritization, alternatives analysis, and
schedules. The CIP may include increases in pipe size, I/I reduction programs, increases and
redundancy in pumping capacity, and storage facilities. The CIP shall include an implementation
schedule and shall identify sources of funding.
d) Schedule: The Enrollee shall develop a schedule of completion dates for all portions of the capital
improvement program developed in (a)-(c) above. This schedule shall be reviewed and updated
consistent with the SSMP review and update requirements as described in Section D.14.
PART 8.a) System Evaluation and Capacity Assurance
Culver City’s Public Works Department is staffed with engineers and technical personnel trained in
proper and safe design and construction of sanitary sewer systems. The maintenance crews evaluate
the pump stations and sewer lines on a weekly basis. The City’s system has sufficient capacity; however,
if hydraulic deficiencies are found, it is resolved immediately.
PART 8.b) Adequate Capacity and Correct Design
Title 20, Division 2 of the L.A. County Code as adopted by Culver City provides the legal responsibility for
ensuring sound and functional design of the public sewer infrastructure. The L.A. County Code also
forms the basis upon which sewer construction plans are designed and plan checked.
During the development process, developers must perform a study to determine the impacts of flow to
be added to the system. The study will analyze the capacity in the existing system and will set forth
mitigation requirements to ensure adequate capacity. The study will also justify the sizing of proposed
lines to accommodate the peak flows from all areas tributary to the impacted mainline sewer or
pumping station using present and estimated future flows. Permits for construction of any public sewer
infrastructure are not issued until the iterative plan check process has been satisfactory completed, thus
insuring the functional design and adequate capacity of the public sewer collection system.
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PART 8.c) Capacity Enhancement
Short term CIPs are in place to resolve hydraulic deficiency of pump stations within the City. The
Braddock Pump Station is one that will undergo a redesign to resolve the hydraulic deficiencies with the
wet well. The estimated time of design completion is December 2009 with construction starting April
2010.
Long term CIP includes replacing and maintaining sewer lines and pump stations. A sewer pump
stations consolidation feasibility study has been performed and the results of the study are being
evaluated. Improvements, if any, will be scheduled for the next two years. All CIP funding will come
from the sewer enterprise fund.
PART 8.d) CIP Schedule
Each CIP will have its own completion date. However, due to some uncertainties, the dates may change
as necessary to reflect any required changes. The SSMP will be modified accordingly to each CIP’s
progress and success.
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9.0 MONITORING, MEASUREMENT, AND PROGRAM MODIFICATIONS
a) Maintain relevant information that can be used to establish and prioritize appropriate SSMP
activities;
b) Monitor the implementation and, where appropriate, measure the effectiveness of each element
of the SSMP;
c) Assess the success of the preventative maintenance program;
d) Update program elements, as appropriate, based on monitoring or performance evaluations; and
e) Identify and illustrate SSO trends, including: frequency, location, and volume.
PART 9.a) Database & Record Keeping
All data and records are kept on the Maintenance Management System (MMS – MaintStar) of the Public
Work’s Maintenance and Operations Division. This system also generates and track work orders for the
sewer crews.
PART 9.b) Implementation and Effectiveness of SSMP
Relevant data on all work done in the implementation/execution of the SSMP program shall be
documented in the MMS and used in preparing Culver City monthly summary of workload indicators.
These data are used in the evaluation of the effectiveness of the overall program.
PART 9.c) Assessment of Preventative Maintenance Program
The effectiveness of the program shall be monitored and tracked by Culver City Maintenance staff. The
primary goal of the SSMP is the reduction/elimination of SSOs, therefore, the primary measure of
effectiveness of the SSMP is the number of SSOs encountered. Other measures will be total number of
category 1 and 2 SSOs, overflow response time, reduction in repeated incidents of overflow at same
location and reduction in number of overflows caused by flows exceeding the capacity of the collection
system including pump stations.
PART 9.d) Updates
Based on the above monitoring measures, the SSMP will be updated or modified as necessary.
PART 9.e) Trending and Analysis of SSOs
The locations of SSO occurrences are plotted annually on a district wide map or on city maps (Appendix
E). The causes of the SSO are also recorded. These maps are used for establishing SSOs patterns,
identifying hot spots as indicated by clusters on the maps, and for scheduling work assignments. The
SSO numbers are also depicted in tables (Appendix F). The tables are used to identify SSO trends and to
evaluate overall SSMP program success especially by comparing the graphs to different years and with
results from other sewer agencies.
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Sewer System Management Plan (SSMP)
28
10.0 SSMP PROGRAM AUDITS
a) The Enrollee shall conduct periodic internal audits, appropriate to the size of the system and the
number of SSOs. At a minimum, these audits must occur every two years and a report must be
prepared and kept on file. This audit shall focus on evaluating the effectiveness of the SSMP and
the Enrollee’s compliance with the SSMP requirements identified in this subsection (D.13),
including identification of any deficiencies in the SSMP and steps to correct them.
PART 10.a) Program Audit
Culver City will conduct an internal audit and prepare a report every two years. The audit shall focus on
evaluating the effectiveness of the SSMP and compliance with the SSMP requirements including
identification of any deficiencies in the SSMP and steps to correct them. The audit shall also rely on
interviews with key personnel, observations, equipment inspections and review of records, etc. The
most recent report of the audit must be kept on file in the Public Works Department with a copy at the
field maintenance yard.
The SSMP shall be certified by the Director of Public Works or authorized representatives to be in
compliance with the requirements set forth in the WDR’s and be presented to the City Council for
approval at a public meeting. The Culver City authorized representative must also complete the
certification portion in the Online SSO Database Questionnaire by checking the appropriate milestone
box, printing and signing the automated form and sending the signed form to
State Water Resources Control Board
Division of Water Quality
Attn: SSO Program Manager
P.O. Box 100
Sacramento, CA 95812
The SSMP must be updated every five years. When significant amendments are made to any portion or
portions of the SSMP, it must be resubmitted to the City Council for approval and re-certification. The
re-certification shall be in accordance with the certification process described above.
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Sewer System Management Plan (SSMP)
29
11.0 COMMUNICATION PROGRAM
a) The Enrollee shall communicate on a regular basis with the public on development,
implementation, and performance of its SSMP. The communication system shall provide the
public the opportunity to provide input to the Enrollee as the program is developed and
implemented.
b) The Enrollee shall also create a plan of communication with systems that are tributary and/or
satellite to the Enrollee’s sanitary sewer system.
PART 11.a) Communication
Culver City will provide all stakeholders and interested parties with status updates on the development
and implementation of the SSMP and consider comments made by them. Culver City may use media
such as, annual reports, notices in newspapers, and the City’s web site to convey this information.
Copies of the SSMP will be maintained in Culver City City Hall and in the Culver City Maintenance
Facility. The document will also be made readily available to Regional Water Quality Control Board
representatives upon request and to the operators of any collection system or treatment facility
downstream of Culver City’s system.
PART 11.b) Tributary & Satellite Communication
The City has a contract with the City of Los Angeles. Both cities update one another with new projects
and maintenance.
City Authorized Representative: Charles D. Herbertson
Public Works Director/City Engineer
____________________________ _________
Signature Date
353637