In addition to the limits on total fee collections established by Sections 40500.1 and 40523, the south coast district board shall not increase any existing permit fee by a percentage greater than any percentage increase in the California Consumer Price Index for the preceding calendar year, unless the board complies with both of the following requirements:

1. (a) The district board shall make a finding, based upon relevant information in a rulemaking record, that the fee increase is necessary and will result in an apportionment of fees that is equitable. This finding shall include an explanation of why the fee increase meets the requirements of this section and Section 40510.
2. (b) The fee increase shall be phased in over a period of at least two years.