HomeMy WebLinkAboutGPA 01-80 Environmental Impact & General Plan yCAPITOL OFFICE
STATE CAPITOL
PHONE 19161 445.8211 , 3TAJ,
CI ;r
SAN DIEGO COUNTY
DI TRICT OFFICE tfforna
125 CONOI U11ITE ION9 AVENUEA �� � � � � R,, Ea�.L,E C:�_,;
E SCONDIDO. CA 92025 � 1'
PHONE 16191 489-8924
42 600 8o HOPF OR c_
VIRG INIA RASMUSSEN
S_ '� 406
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Rarc�:� M:AacE CA 922?O
BILL BRAD LEY P,,r '619) 568 0357
RO SALIA ATILANTO
FIELD REPRESENTATIVE ASSEMBLYMAN, SEVENTY-SIXTH DISTRICT S. a_Ey V. F
MEMBER OF THE ASSEMBLY RURAL CAUCUS F E_c RE— F� a v
February 26 , 1985
Mr. S . Roy Wilson
Councilman MAR 4 1985
City of Palm Desert
72825 Bel Air
Palm Desert CA 92260 ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
' CITY OF PALM DESERT
Dear Roy:
Re: AB 971 - Housing: density bonuses
I have introduced the attached legislation con-
cerning density bonuses .
Your review and comments concerning this legis-
lation would be greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
, f.
BILL BRADLEY
Assemblyman, 76th District
BB: ly
Attach.
54594 2 U 1W5 85051 18: 18
BECOEL # 40 BF: BN 85 003279 PAGE NO. 1
AUTHCI-,R,' furY
LEGISIATIVE COUNSEL 'S DIGESI
fill No. 97/ Z - 26 -85
as introduced, Bradley.
General Subject: Housing: density boeuses.
Existing law requires a city or county, whether
general law or chattered , to grant a density tonus or
other incentives of equivalent financial value to a
developer who agrees to construct a certain percentage of
the dwelling units in a housing develofsent fcr persons
and fasilies who meet certain income criteria or for
senior citizens, as dEfined.
This bill -mould specify that a city or county is
not required to grant that density bonus er other
incentives of equivalent financial value if the housing
element of the city cr county complies with other
requirements of state law and if the granting of the
density icnus would cause the supply of housing units in
the city or county to exceed the city 's or ccunty' s share
54594 85051 18: 18
BECO&D 1 40 BF: RN 85 003279 PAGE NO. 2
of the regional housing need by 10%, or more. The Bill
would also correct an erroneous cress-reference.
Vote: majority. Appropriation : no. Fiscal
cormittee: no. State-mandated lccal program: no.
5v59u -8 2 0 1985
85051 17;19
RECORD # 30 BF: EN 85 003279 PAGE NO. 1
AUTHOR'S Cuo" PY
An act to amend Section 65915 of, and to add
Section 65915.. ` to, the Government Code, relating
tc housing.
94994 85051 17: 19
FECOHD # 60 BE: RN b5 003279 PAGE NO. 2
THE FIOPLE OF THE STATE Of CALIFCRNIA CC ENACT AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Section 65915 cf the Gcvernment Code
is amended to read:
65915. (a) When a developer of housing agrees
to ccnstruct at least (1) 25 percent cf the total units of
a housing development for persons and families of low or
mcderate income, as defined in Section 50093 of the Health
and Safety Code, or (i) 10 percent of the total units of a
housing development fcr lower-income hcuseholds, as
defined in Section 5G079.5 of the Health and Safety Code,
or (3) 50 percent of the total dwelling units of a housing
development for qualifying residents, as defined in
Section 154-w4 51_3 of the Civil Code, a city, county, or
city and county shall: except as ctheiwise Provided in
Section 65915_5. either (1) grant a density tonus or (2)
provide cther incentives of equivalent financial value.
(b) A developer may submit to a city, county, or
city and county a preliminary proposal for the development
of hcusing pursuant to this section prior to the submittal
of any formal requests for general plan amendments, zoning
amendments, or subdivision map arprovals. The city,
county, or city and ccunty shall, within 90 days of
receipt of a written Frop:osal, nctity the housing
• l
S4S94 85051 17: 19
BECOED # 70 BF: RN 85 003279 PAGE M 3
developer in writing of the manner in Which it will comply
with this section. The city, county, or city and county
shall establish procedures for carrying out this section,
which shall include legislative body approval of the means
of compliance with this section.
(c) For the purposes of this chapter, "density
bonus" means a density increase of at least 25 percent
over the otherwise maximum allowable residential density
under the applicable zoning ordinance and land use element
of the general plan. The density bonus shall not be
included when determining the nuaber of housing units
which is equal to 10 or 25 percent of the total. The
density bonus shall apply to housing developments
consisting of rive or more dwelling units.
(d) if a developer agrees to construct both 25
percent of the total units for persons and families of low
or mcderate income and 10 percent of the total units for
lower-income households, the developer is entitled to only
one density bonus under this section although the city,
city and county, or ccunty may, at its discretion, grant
more than one density bonus.
SEC. 2. Section 65915. 5 is added to the
Government Code, to read:
65915. 5. A city, county, or city and county is
i
t
94994 85051 17: 19
FECOLD # 80 BF: &N 85 003279 PAGE NO. 4
not required to grant a density torus cr Frovide other
incentives of equivalent financial value if the housing
element of the city ci county comilies With Article 10.6
(coazencing with Section 65580) of Chapter 3 of Division 1
of title 7 at,d if the granting of a density tonus would
cause the supply or hcusing units in the city cr county to
exceed the city•s cr county's share of the regional
housing need by 10 percent, or acre, aE determined
pursuant to Section 65584.
- 0 -
MINUTES
PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION
May 5, 1981 Page Four
VI . PUBLIC HEARINGS (cont. )
F. Case No. PM 17452 - ARLE CORPORATION (Charles Gibbs) and RON MARTIN
AND ASSOCIATES, Applicants
Request fo approval of a Tentative Parcel Map to allow the
creation of industrial lots within the S. I. , S.P. (Service
Industrial , Scenic Preservation Overlay) and O.S. (Open
Space) zone, located at the southwest corner of Hovley Lane
and Cook Street.
Mr Diaz presented this case stating that due to the revised mpas not being
submitted, staff recommended continuance to May 20, 1981.
Chairman Miller opened the Public Hearing.
Motion was made by Commissioner Kryder, seconded by Commissioner Berkey, to
continue the case to May 20, 1981. Carried unanimously (5-0) .
G. Case Nos. DP 15-79 and 200 MF - MAYER GROUP, INC. , Applicant
A request for a 12 month time extension for an approved
residential Development Plan and related Design Review
case, to allow construction of 264 condominium units and
a 9 acre public park on 39.1 acres within the PR-7, S.P.
(Planned Residential , maximum density 7 d.u./acre, Scenic
Preservation Overlay) zone, located at the northeast
corner of Country Club Drive and Monterey Avenue.
Mr. Diaz stated that a letter was received from Dan Salceda, Mayer Group,
requesting a continuance to June 30, 1981. Staff concurred with the continuance.
Chairman Miller opened the Public Hearing and asked if anyone wished to
speak in FAVOR or OPPOSITION to this case. There was none.
Motion was made by Commissioner Richards, seconded by Commissioner McLachlan,
to continue this case to June 30, 1981. Carried unanimously (5-0) .
H. Case No. ZOA 04-81 - CITY OF PALM DESERT, Applicant
Request for consideration of change in City parking requirements.
Mr. Diaz requested a continuance to May 20, 1981, for further study.
Chairman Miller opened the hearing and motion was made by Commissioner Berkey,
seconded by Commissioner Richards, to continue this matter to May 20, 1981.
Carried unanimously (5-0) .
VII . OLD BUSINESS
A. GENERAL PLAN - Resort Commercial Land Use Designation, CITY OF
PALM DESERT, Applicant
Mr. Diaz stated that this matter was referred back to Planning Commission to
determine if Resort Commercial should be eliminated entirely; eliminated in some
areas; or, not eliminated at all . He indicated staff's recommendation, for the
reasons outlined in the staff report, to eliminate all Resort Commercial uses.
Mr. Diaz noted that if Resort Commercial is not deleted entirely that as much as
possible should be, beginning with Sites that do not have Development Plans approved.
Commissioner Richards asked if that would preclude Stein-Brief's development
of a shopping center. Mr. Diaz replied that it would not affect that development
nor Las Sombras; a proposed racquetball and motel ; 'and a development plan at the
easterly portion of Deep Canyon and Hwy 111.
MINUTES
PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION
May 5, 1981 Page Five
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
VII. OLD BUSINESS ` (cont. )
Commissioner Kryder asked how it would affect those who have submitted
plans. Mr. Diaz stated that if the plans have been approved, it would not affect
them. He added that all uses in the Resort Commercial zone are permitted within
the General Commercial zone.
Commissioner Richards felt that the sites mentioned that would be affected
would be suitable and asked about the Deep Canyon site. Mr. Diaz explained that
the City Council policy on that site had been determined by the denial of the
proposed zone change.
Commissioner Berkey agreed with staff's recommendation, therefore, made a
minute motion to delete all Resort Commercial uses.
Mr. Diaz noted an additional justification should be added to the staff
report: That the future market might limit development to hotel and motel uses
anyway and that discrimination of these parcels was unnecessary.
The Commission also wished it made clear that their recommendation included
the Deep Canyon and Highway 111 site.
The motion was seconded by Commissioner Kryder and carried unanimously, (5-0) .
VIII. NEW BUSINESS - NONE `
IX. DESIGN REVIEW BOARD ITEMS
Preliminary plan approvals by the Design Review Board at their meeting
of April 28, 1981, requiring Planning Commission confirmation.
A. Case No. 146 C - A-1 SURVEYING
B. Case No. 120 C - MAY COMPANY
C. Case No. 224 MF - TED PEARSON
Mr. Smith reviewed the Design and elevations of these cases. He stated
that Design Review Board reviewed and approved. Staff recommended approval .
Commissioner Berkey asked for the square footage of the May Company. Mr.
Sawa answered 124,000 sq.ft.
Motion was made by Commissioner Richards, seconded by Commissioner McLachlan,
to approve the Design Review Board actions by adoption of Planning Commission
Resolution No. 711. Carried unanimously (5-0) .
X. DISCUSSION ITEMS - NONE
XI. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - NONE
XII. COMMENTS
Mr. Diaz introduced Steve Smith, Associate Planner, and Bob Hardy, Associate
Civil Engineer, to the Planning Commission.
XIII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion was made by Commissioner Richards, seconded by Commissioner McLachlan,
to adjourn the meeting at 7:50 p.m.
ATTEST: RAMON DIAZ, Secretary
CHARLES MILLER, Chairman
CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
TO: Planning Commission
FROM: Director of Environmental Services
SUBJECT: General Plan - Resort Commercial Land Use Designation
DATE: May 5, 1981
At the last regular meeting of the Planning Commission, staff was instructed to
prepare a written report to examine the entire issue of the Resort Commercial
designation.
HISTORY:
The Planning Commission in reviewing the General Plan, recommended to the Council
a land use plan changing the Resort Commercial designation in the easterly boundary
of the City on both sides of Highway 111, to General Commercial . During the hearings
before the City Council , property owners on the west end of the City requested re-
designation of their properties. Basically, the testimony on this issue centers on
the viability of Resort Commercial as a designation. Staff subsequently amended its
recommendation to delete the Resort Commercial designation and informed the Commission.
An addendum to the original staff report was submitted to the Council outlining the
reasons for the modified recommendation. (Addendum is attached as Exhibit I)
ANALYSIS:
In analyzing the issue of whether or not to delete the Resort Commercial designation,
some questions which should be examined are:
1. Are the sites presently designated Resort Commercial appropriate for
hotel development?
2. Is there a market demand for additional hotels in the area?
3. Is financing available for hotel development?
There appears to be a demand for "destination" type hotels, that is, resort oriented
complexes which are an end or "destination" point. The other type of facility could
be termed "transient" or "traveler" oriented which is a facility generally directed
at the overnight traveler. The additional need for destination hotels in the area
is predicated on build-out occurring in Palm Springs and the increasing cost of land
in that area. This coupled with the success of the Marriott in Rancho Mirage would
appear to make it inevitable the decentralization of hotels from Palm Springs to Rancho
Mirage, Palm Desert and Indian Wells.
In the case of "destination" hotel locations on major highways is not a critical
factor as long as easy access to these highways is available, along with easy access
to shopping, restaurants, and recreational amenities. The Palm Desert area would
appear to fulfill these requirements.
The attached map (Exhibit II) identifies those sites that are presently designated
and zoned Resort Commercial . The sites in question are appropriate for resort
hotels if they can be assembled and financed.
The key problem is that of financing; all consultants contacted indicated that
while a demand may exist, the ability to finance a hotel is difficult at best. The
problems rests with uncertainty of long-term demands and the general single purpose
character of a hotel facility; this coupled with the existing problems in securing
long-term financing faced by all developers magnifies the problem involved in hotel
construction.
Removing oneself from Highway 111, there exists and will exist large areas of land
with relatively easy access to shopping, restaurant, and recreation facilities which
can be utilized for hotel development. The loss of any or all existing Resort Com-
mercial sites on Highway 111 would not preclude hotel development elsewhere in the
City.
1W
RESORT COMMERCIAL LAND USE DESGINATION
MAY 5, 1981 Page Two
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION:
Staff would continue to recommend that the "Resort Commercial " designation be
deleted as a designation land use within the City's General Plan. The reasons for
this recommendation are:
1. The sites zoned and designated Resort Commercial by the 1975 General
Plan Amendment, with the exception of Las Sombras Village Restaurant
Complex, remain vacant after six years.
2. It is an unfair burden to continue to ask the owners of these properties
to hold their land by essentially limiting development to uneconomically
unfeasible commercial activities.
3. The viability of the Redevelopment Project Area and Program depends on
the increment which can be generated within this project. Most of the
large tracts of vacant acreage which can generate this increment are
designated and zoned Resort Commercial .
4. If financing is available for hotels the General Commercial zoning would
not preclude their development.
5. Based on testimony received at Commission and Council hearings, it would
appear that General Commercial Centers or uses allowed in the General
Commercial zones can assist in hotel development. This is due to the
ability of those uses (i .e. , Markets, Financial Institutions, Home
Improvement Centers, etc. ) to offset high land acquisition and public
improvement costs.
6. Along with the General Commercial zone, hotels are permitted within the
City's Planned Residential and Multiple Residential zones. Allowing uses
other than hotels along Highway 111 would not, therefore, preclude their
development.
However, the options are to either eliminate the Resort Commercial designation
entirely, partially, or leave it. Staff would recommend that in the event the
designation cannot be eliminated totally, as much as possible should be eliminated.
Beginning with those sites that do not presently have an approved Development Plan
for Resort Commercial development. (see map Exhibit II)
While, as indicated by some Commissioners previously, it would not be desirable
to pick and choose; if this is the only course available, then it must be taken.
By deleting those sites which do not have an approved development plan, this would:
1. Facilitate development of those sites for which a plan presently
does not exist.
2. Would not penalize those owners whose sites have approved develop-
ment plans.
3. By facilitating development, this action should generate increment.
TRANSMITTAL LETTERX �I
CASE NO: GPA 01-80
March 26, 1981 PAGE TWO
B. Use of landscaping with drought tolerant vegetation and
preservation of native vegetation to the maximum extent
feasible.
C. Examine and encourage the use of reclaimed water.
3. Cooperate with Coachella Valley Water District and other agencies
in establishing water conservation information for local homeowners.
Traffic is discussed in the Transportation/Circulation Element. The Element
recognizes the need to develop alternate east/west routes, such as Country
Club Drive, 44th Avenue (Fred Waring Drive) , Frank Sinatra Drive and 36th
Avenue to serve as Highway 111 bypass routes.
Sand Dune Park: The dual designation of "open space" and "low density
residential (3-5 du/ac)", for the proposed Sand Dune Park, does not preclude
the City from developing the park. Rather, it allows the City the option to
acquire the property at the time the property owner wishes to develop the
land. Futhermore, the dual designation determines the density and intensity
of land use compatible with the surrounding area, should the City be unable
to purchase the park land. Finally, it saves the City time and money since
a General Plan amendment and subsequent Environmental Impact Report would
not have to be completed if there is a single designation and a later
desire to change that designation.
Resort Commercial Designation:
A. Highway 111 and Deep Canyon Road Intersection: Council also
discussed the redesignation from existing resort to core
area commercial for the property located at the northeast
corner of Highway 111 and Deep Canyon Road. This redesignation
to core area commercial would not prohibit the development of
hotel and related uses along Highway 111 . Hotel facilities are
currently permitted in the C-1 (General Commercial ) , R-3 (Multi-
Family Residential ) and PR (Planned Residential ) zones at
various densities. Also, approximately 700 condominium units
available for short-term rental purposes, have been constructed
since 1975, based on an informal telephone survey conducted
by Staff.
B. Western End of Highway 111 : The Council also heard testimony
from a representative of a property owner regarding the Resort
Commercial designation at the western end of Highway 111 . He
stated that "The parcel is not large enough to profitably
develop the site as Resort Commercial ". The representative in-
dicated that the property owner would like to develop a com-
mercial center with a supermarket as the primary tenant on the
site. He requested redesignation to a more appropriate com-
mercial designation.
C. Tax Increments: A final consideration is the property tax
increments the Redevelopment Agency receives when development
occurs in the redevelopment project area. Tax increments are
the major source of revenue for financing the redevelopment
program. The Resort Commercial designation restricts other
commercial uses from being developed that enables the City to
obtain this revenue, although more appropriate commercial zones
do not restrict the development of hotels and related facilities.
Since hotel and related facilities are permitted in various zones, and since
seasonal rental units are available, Staff recommends the elimination of the
Resort Commercial designation from the entire Land Use Map and redesignation
of all sites to Core Area Commercial .
Furthermore, Staff recommends that the Zoning Ordinance be amended to delete
the density provision for hotels in the commercial zones, and study allowable
hotel densities in the residential zones, to determine whether or not the
density should be changed. Staff is of the opinion that current development
standards will sufficiently control hotel density along Highway 111 .
w
a Al
133Y1t 9000 j
E 1 faNIM
V
sV J F� CL
W 2 Z v ,N
I a@.Y0 YY 31MVJ
� W ■
•to 0 LLO .• i a'd 2 1 ¢ CHIN NOf
=•_J O
r 1,w,l AI,O S113M NV10N1 - - - �� OarNOao0
' •::.:`;.'• {•# ® anon X Ctl3d oa A f
.syR:•ii:9:;;: ;
a
� s �
O " o
a' a I --to- M 3
a O
z
_
a � z ,
ovoaS kOAi�tl0 da3.0•••••t
OVOn NOANVO d330
a:-
s } D: M
Nr aN re) -,.
-- / N�3-n-lm}a-0� rwr�a-off-Nor/d]
1--+-1 H_.I ,^fY'. w•a+`17 NI t-1�{-
CD
t w
W _W_K W Q N J
a a
�Ooa s
�ul
3Ar NyC Z
•O 11- W aujm
ul 1 z W
ii� p v
1 U 3Ar O93
-_if. '3A• 'A3Y31 N011 A a31N011 _ ..
IE
a
� t)
u c ' = t cc N y �' W
i
a act
'3 a o - 4 M - ArA rzr,d as
P d
m o - 0
vi
Q
0 � J .
Y_�
' nrH Irf - - C6 w
a vi M
10
IM0A0.� va'' rn.. V •_
" w
yy6. N z n
w
s� \ a:
— - - a
_. 831gM -= --wools-,-- '—�� • . ,
• n.
� a
awov r N Or ..... .N............
En
i
La
I
4•
{:}}..0+ ,{f::::iq"y: 4}x.T.•:�Xv`•?'�vh,':..T::..4�;;.::•Y�•y'•::z:;^•,r ��_ �,
}Y ?'ri'i.{v'::{r,.{:T: i:�;;2::.:}}•` :<'v.MJ4 1 S{Wn'•{}:{.T.::v.� };T:Yy4i0}`.T
J .{::<;'•'<•y;r.:•{'. is ,}'� .�o ..:;c s •%�ti.�i:'�:��i4`°^•.?. �,4}�,,:•"
v.�T+4.3v {'{;}��} ..; r:v ;4•}i1 v: t 4A•�':A; 'z'.ri
•4:};}::} .�{'f.;i}>:ti ;.+f r.$Ah {� ;T 4ny tii�fA���•v
\rev};,�•''k•:i{y` 4v'" �'^� }'�:'t:v lv`i?C\•{.}. :.},}•
cc
a \\\ vi
�I �Q o o
tj3S30 VOVd d0 A113
MINUTES 111W 1"01
PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION
APRIL 15, 1981 Page Four
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
VI. PUBLIC HEARINGS (cont. )
There was discussion regarding concerns over the gas station location and
availability to the public as well as members. Mr. Diaz stated that since a
Development Plan is required for the gas station details of the design and location
could be reviewed then.
Motion was made by Commissioner Richards, seconded by Commissioner McLachlan,
to recommend approval to the City Council of Case Nos. C/Z 02-81, TT 15633, and
TT 15640, by adoption of Planning Commission Resolution Nos. 697, 698 and 699; and
approve Case Nos. DP 02-81, DP 03-81 and PM 17474 by Planning Commission Resolution
Nos. 700, 701 and 702, subject to conditions. Carried unanimously (5-0).
A FIVE MINUTE RECESS WAS CALLED AT 4:00 P.M. - MEETING RECONVENED AT 4:05 P.M.
COMMISSIONER MCLACHLAN WAS EXCUSED FROM THE MEETING.
D. Case No. ZOA 04-81 - CITY OF PALM DESERT, Applicant.
Request for consideration of change in City parking requirements.
Mr. Diaz presented this case reviewing the staff report and recommending
approval .
This item was discussed by Commission and staff and because further study
was necessary, it was decided to continue the matter to May 5, 1981.
Motion was made by Commissioner Richards, seconded by Commissioner Berkey,
to continue this case to May 5, 1981, for further study. Carried unanimously (4-0).
E. Case No. ZOA 05-81 - CITY OF PALM DESERT and RITTER AND ASSOCIATES,
Applicants
Mr. Sawa presented this case reviewing the request and stated that staff
would like a six month trial period to see how it worked in the Presidents' Plaza
parking lot.
Commissioner Kryder asked if staff observed any problems so far. Mr. Sawa
noted that trash was being put on the ground around the bins.
Motion was made by Commissioner Berkey, seconded by Commissioner Kryder, to
continue this case for six months. Carried unanimously (4-0).
F. Case No. ZOA 06-81 - CITY OF PALM DESERT, Applicant
Request for modification of Time Extension Procedures.
Mr. Diaz reviewed the staff report stating that the amendment would delete
the requirement of a Public Hearing for time extensions. He noted that public
input in the past had been very minimal . Staff suggested that future time exten-
sions be handled as part of the consent calendar.
Motion was made by Commissioner Richards, seconded by Commissioner Berkey,
to approve this amendment by adoption of Planning Commission Resolution No. 703.
Carried unanimously (4-0).
VII. OLD BUSINESS
1�1) Case No. GPA_01-80 (continued) - CITY OF PALM DESERT, Applicant
This item was continued to the meeting of May 5, 1981.
MINUTES
PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION
APRIL 15, 1981 Page Five
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
A. Mobile Homes - Zoning and Implementation of SB 1960.
Mr. Dos Santos reviewed the staff report and the options available.
Staff recommended option No. 3, which would redesignate areas currently zoned for
Mobil Homes to Single Family Conventional and Mobile Home Residential .
Commissioner Berkey asked what areas would be affected. Mr. Dos Santos
replied that there were two annexations presently zoned RM. Commissioner Berkey
asked if there were any areas in the City that this would affect. Mr. Dos Santos
replied all existing RM zones would be affected.
Commissioner Berkey felt that legal counsel might be needed to insure that
this procedure would be in compliance with the state law.
Commissioner Kryder felt that the intent was to allow Mobile Homes on Single
Family Residential lots.
Mr. Diaz explained that while the Mobile Home Association might disagree,
staff felt that Palm Desert already permits Mobile Homes in the City.
Discussion continued regarding other available options and it was decided
that option three, as recommended by staff, would meet the intent.
Minute Motion was made by Commissioner Richards, seconded by Commissioner
Berkey, to adopt option three. Carried unanimously (4-0).
B. Request for initiation of a Zoning Ordinance Amendment to
reduce property line setback for swimming pools.
Mr. Diaz explained that Mr. Thomas G. Harris requested an amendment to
allow 3 ft. setback between a swimming pool and a property l.ine. . Mr. Hill ,
Director of Building and Safety, gave reasons as to why he objected to this amend-
ment. Therefore, staff recommended denial .
Minute Motion was made by Commissioner Richards, seconded by Commissioner
Berkey, to deny this request. Carried unanimously (4-0).
IX. DESIGN REVIEW BOARD ITEMS
Preliminary plan approvals by the Design Review Board at their meeting
of April 7, 1981, requiring Planning Commission confirmation.
A. Case No. 145 C: CROCKER NATIONAL BANK - Mr. Sawa presented this case
stating that Design Review Board reviewed and approved this request with conditions.
He reviewed the location and the conditions and recommended approval .
Motion was made by Commissioner Richards, seconded by Commissioner Berkey,
to confirm the actions of the Board in this case, by adoption of Planning Commission
Resolution No. 704. Carried unanimously (4-0).
X. DISCUSSION ITEMS - NONE
XI. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - NONE
XII. COMMENTS - NONE
XIII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion was made by Commissioner Richards, seconded by Commissioner Kryder,
to adjourn the meeting at 5:10 P.M. Carried unanimously (4-0).
FINISHED
AGENDA
PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
March 31 , 1981 PAGE TWO
* * 4- * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * + ,,. * + * * * * * * * *
D. Case No. DP 04-80 and 204 MF - J.M. PETERS COMPANY and BALLEW/
MCFARLAND, INC. , Applicants
Request for approval of a one year time extension of a Development
Plan and related Design Review case to allow a 156 unit development
with related recreational amenities and open space on approximately
34.06 gross acres located at the northeast corner of Hovley Lane
and Cook Street in the PR-5, S.P. (Planned Residential , max. 5 d.u./
ac. , Scenic Preservation Overlay) zone District.
Staff Recommendation: Recommend approval to City Council , of a
one year time extension for implementation of Case Nos. DP 04-80
and 204 MF, subject to original conditions contained in Planning
Commission Resolution No. 587.
i
Action: Time extension was approved by Resolution No. 694.
VII. OLD BUSINESS - NONE
I
VIII. NEW BUS I NESS
,V" Case No. GPA 01-80 - C Y OF PALM DESERT, Applicant.
Referral from City Council of General Plan Update for the City of
Palm Desert.
Staff Recommendation: Review revised General Plan, and submit
comments to City Council by adoption of Resolution No.
Action: Continued to April 15th, to allow staff to present
additional information on options.
IX. DESIGN REVIEW BOARD ITEMS - NONE
X. DISCUSSION ITEMS - NONE
XI. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - NONE
XII . COMMENTS
A. City Staff - NONE
B. Planning Commission
1 . Comments were made regarding the Portola Dip.
XIII. ADJOURNMENT - 7:55 P.M.
CITY OF PALM DESERT
TRANSMITTAL LETTER
I. TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
II. REQUEST: Certification of Environmental Impact Reports, and approval
of General Plan Update for the City of Palm Desert.
III. APPLICANT: City of Palm Desert
IV. CASE NO: GPA 01-80
V. DATE: March 26, 1981
VI. CONTENTS:
A. Staff Recommendation.
B. Discussion.
C. Draft Resolution No.
D. Planning Commission Minutes involving Case No. GPA 01-80,
E. Planning Commission Resolution Nos. 680 and 681 .�
F. Planning Commission Staff Reports dated December 11 , 1980 and
February 3, 1981 .
G. Related maps and/or exhibits.
A. STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
1 . Waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. certifying final
Environmental Impact reports as they pertain to the proposed General Plan.
2. Waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. approving the
General Plan Update (GPA 01-80) .
B. DISCUSSION:
The Council continued consideration of the General Plan Update to the meeting
of March 26, 1981 .
Considerable discussion occurred at the Council meeting of March 12, 1981
regarding the Desert People United's letter, the dual designation of open
space and low density residential (3-5 du/a) for the proposed Sand Dune
Park, and the redesignation from Resort Commercial to General Commercial
for the property located at the northeast corner of Highway Ill and Deep
Canyon Road. A discussion of each follows.
Desert People United's (D.P.U. ) Letter: The major concerns of D.P.U. are
water availability and traffic. The Environmental Impact Report (p. 71-74)
for the General Plan Update thoroughly covered the water issue and has
recommended various mitigating measures to conserve water. It is recommended
that the following policies be added to the Conservation, Open Space, and
Recreation Element:
1 . The City shall request, analyze and review periodic reports from
the Coachella Valley Water District regarding regional water
availability.
2. In order to utilize water efficiently, the following shall be
established as guidelines for design/site plan review:
A. Use of automatic water-sensing sprinkling devices, drip-
irrigation systems or similar devices ("spot sputter" and home
trickle irrigation systems) , whenever possible.
TRANSMITTAL LETTER
CASE NO: GPA 01-80
March 26, 1981 PAGE TWO
B. Use of landscaping with drought tolerant vegetation and
preservation of native vegetation to the maximum extent
feasible.
C. Examine and encourage the use of reclaimed water.
3. Cooperate with Coachella Valley Water District and other agencies
in establishing water conservation information for local homeowners.
Traffic is discussed in the Transportation/Circulation Element. The Element
recognizes the need to develop alternate east/west routes, such as Country
Club Drive, 44th Avenue (Fred Waring Drive) , Frank Sinatra Drive and 36th
Avenue to serve as Highway 111 bypass routes.
Sand Dune Park: The dual designation of "open space" and "low density
residential 3-5 du/ac)", for the proposed Sand Dune Park, does not preclude
the City from developing the park. Rather, it allows the City the option to
acquire the property at the time the property owner wishes to develop the
land. Futhermore, the dual designation determines the density and intensity
of land use compatible with the surrounding area, should the City be unable
to purchase the park land. Finally, it saves the City time and money since
a General Plan amendment and subsequent Environmental Impact Report would
not have to be completed if there is a single designation and a later
desire to change that designation.
Resort Commercial Designation:
A. Highway 111 and Deep Canyon Road Intersection: Council also
discussed the redesignation from existing resort to core
area commercial for the property located at the northeast
corner of Highway 111 and Deep Canyon Road. This redesignation
to core area commercial would not prohibit the development of
hotel and related uses along Highway 111 . Hotel fa ilities are
currently permitted in the C-1 (General Commercial, R-3 (Multi-
Family Residential ) and PR (Planned Residential ) zones at
various densities. Also, approximately 700 condominium units
available for short-term rental purposes, have been constructed
since 1975, based on an informal telephone survey conducted
by Staff.
B. Western End of Highway 111 : The Council also heard testimony
from a representative of a property owner regarding the Resort
Commercial designation at the western end of Highway 111 . He
stated that "The parcel is not large enough to profitably
develop the site as Resort Commercial". The representative in-
dicated that the property owner would like to develop a com-
mercial center with a supermarket as the primary tenant on the
site. He requested redesignation to a more appropriate com-
mercial designation.
C. Tax Increments: A final consideration is the property tax
increments the Redevelopment Agency receives when development
occurs in the redevelopment project area. Tax increments are
the major source of revenue for financing the redevelopment
program. The Resort Commercial designation restricts other
commercial uses from being developed that enables the City to
obtain this revenue, although more appropriate commercial zones
do not restrict the development of hotels and related facilities.
Since hotel and related facilities are permitted in various zones, and since
seasonal rental units are available, Staff recommends the elimination of the
Resort Commercial designation from the entire Land Use Map and redesignation
of all sites to Core Area Commercial .
Furthermore, Staff recommends that the Zoning Ordinance be amended to delete
the density provision for hotels in the commercial zones, and study allowable
hotel densities in the residential zones, to determine whether or not the
density should be changed. Staff is of the opinion that current development
standards will sufficiently control hotel density along Highway 111 .
CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 81-40
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING THE PALM DESERT
GENERAL PLAN.
CASE NO. GPA 01-80
WHEREAS, the City Council did hold a duly noticed Public Hearing on
March 12, 1981 , and continued Public Hearings on March 26, 1981 and April 9,
1981 , to consider the Public Hearing Draft of the Palm Desert General Plan,
dated November 1980, which encompasses the total Palm Desert Planning Area as
approved by the City Council ;
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Palm Desert, after a
duly noticed Public Hearing on February 3, 1981 , did by Planning Commission
Resolution No. 681 , recommend approval of the General Plan as amended;
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission on referral from City Council , did .;
consider Council initiated revisions to the Draft General Plan on March 31 ,
1981 ;
WHEREAS, the General Plan has complied with the requirements of the
"City of Palm Desert Procedures to Implement the California Environmental Quality
Act, Resolution No. 80-89", in that final Environmental Impact Reports were
presented at a duly noticed Public Hearing held on March 12, 1981 , and the City
Council at the close of the Public Hearing, did certify said reports as the
Final Environmental Impact Reports on this project to include:
1 . The Draft EIRs.
2. Comments received on the Draft EIRs in writing or as
a part of the public hearings.
3. The staff report prepared on the EIRs for the following
reasons:
a) The final EIRs are in compliance with the require-
ments of CEQA.
b) The final EIRs do adequately address the environmental
effects of the General Plan.
WHEREAS, at said Public Hearing, upon hearing and considering the testi-
mony and arguments of all persons desiring to be heard, said City Council did
find the following facts and reasons to exist to approve the General Plan;
1 . The Palm Desert General Plan does comply to the require-
ments of the State Government Code.
2. The document as amended adequately represents a comprehen-
sive, long-term General Plan for the physical development
of the City and its planning area.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Palm
Desert as follows:
1 . That the above recitations are true and correct and constitute
the findings of the Commission in this case.
2. That it does approve the Public Hearing draft of the Palm Desert
General Plan, dated November, 1980, as amended by the attachment
labeled Exhibit "A" for the reasons set out in this resolution.
3. That said approval does not include the sites currently designated
as Resort Commercial , as depicted in the amended 1975 General Plan,
which are si.: i1 un-,`jn% �i.j4�'�.
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Palm Desert
CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION N0. 8 1-4 0 PAGE TWO
City Council , held on the 9th day of April 1981 , by the following vote,
to wit:
AYES: McPherson., Newbrander, Snyder & Wilson
NOES: Puluqi
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
S ' WI
,V N, Mayor
ATTEST:
SHEILA R. G N, City rk
/pa
RESOLUTION NO. 81-40 - PAGE TEN
SEISMIC SAFETY ELEMENT
PAGE LINE CHANGE
V D 2 Add between paragraphs 3 and 4: "The
inclusion of public utilities in these
documents is not intended to put the
City in the position of being an
additional approving or monitoring
agency for the utilities, although local
standards should be met. It is recognized
that the California Energy and Public
Utilities Commissions have pre-empted
local jurisdiction over the regulation of
public utilities. However, both Commissions
are required to seek local input to their
approval of construction and operating
procedures for public utilities. Inclusion
of public utilities in this Element is
intended to provide part of that comment.
V D 2 20 Add after Element: "The Technical Report is
accepted by the City of Palm Desert, but
is not adopted as part of this Element. The
design criteria and seismic response criteria
presented in the report, are one of several
possible interpretations.
V D 12 Add between paragraphs 1 and 2: "The following
definitions are used in the discussion of
critical , essential and normal facilities:
Critical : includes uses whose collapse poses
extreme, if not catastrophic, hazards to life,
property and community functioning. Collapse
of these structures or facilities is clearly
unacceptable, and the highest level of safety
is mandatory. Critical structures and
facilities may suffer some damage in a natural
disaster, but must not pose a threat to human
life.
Essential : includes uses whose collapse could
severely impair the community's ability to
recover from a natural disaster. It is
recognized that there may be some temporary
service disruptions because of damage to
individual facilities; however, these should
not impair the community's recovery since
delivery system as a whole, should continue
supplying essential services.
Normal High Risk: includes structures of
facilities which because of high occupancy,
or potential use in disaster response operations,
should not collapse and should afford occupants
a high level of safety. Some damage, including
structural , and injury may occur, but loss of
life should be rare.
Normal Low Risk: includes the vast majority
of structures. Structures should resist minor
earthquakes without damage, resist moderate
earthquakes without structural damage (although
nonstructural damage may occur) , and resist
major earthquakes, of the intensity or severity
of the strongest experienced in California,
without collapse, but with some structural as
well as nonstructural damage".
continued. . .
RESOLUTION NO. 81-40 PAGE NINE
ENERGY ELEMENT
PAGE LINE CHANGE
V B 2 18 Delete "low and moderate and".
RESOLUTION NO. 81-40 PAGE EIGHT -
CONSERVATION/OPEN SPACE/RECREATION ELEMENT
PAGE LINE CHANGE
V A 10 4 Add "and maintain" after "for".
V A 22 16 - 17 Delete and replace with "have signed
a lease allowing the City to develop
approximately 15 acres of the proposed
high school site for a sports complex".
V A 23 TABLE 2 Change acreage of Palm Desert Community
Center from "29" to "40".
Change Subtotal of Existing Developed
Sites from "40.8" to "51 .811.
Change "Sports Center" to "Sports Complex"
and change acreage from "10" to "15".
Change "Unnamed Park", to "Monterey Park".
Change Proposed Sites Subtotal from "509.0",
to "514.0".
Change Total Sites Acreage from "621 .3",
to "636.3".
V A 31 18 Change "partion" to "portion".
V A 32 3 Add: "The City should consider the adoption
of an Ordinance to develop the mechanics
by which historic and cultural resources
may be identified, preserved, protected and
enhanced, if said ordinance is deemed
necessary upon completion of a comprehensive
survey of historic sites.
V A 37 19 Change "basketbell", to "basketball".
t
RESOLUTION NO. 81-40 PAGE SEVEN
POPULATION/ECONOMICS ELEMENT
PAGE LINE CHANGE
IV B 8 24 Change "Has" to "has".
IV B 9 17 Add "is approximately 4,800", after
"seasonable population". Change "there"
to "There".
IV B 10 20 Change "of which" to"factor".
RESOLUTION NO. 81-40 PAGE SIX
HOUSING ELEMENT
PAGE LINE CHANGE
IV A 4 19 Delete "structures and rehabilitation where".
IV A 6 13 Change "nean" to "mean".
IV A 23 14 Change "moderage" to "moderate".
IV A 25 9 Change "low and moderate income", to "lower
cost".
IV A 29 14 Change "low and moderate income" to "lower
cost".
IV A 30 2 Change "low and moderate income", to "lower
cost".
IV 30 14 Change "low and moderate income", to "lower
cost".
IV 30 17 Change "low and moderate income", to "lower
cost".
{
RESOLUTION NO. 81-40 low PAGE FIVE
URBAN DESIGN/SCENIC HIGHWAY ELEMENT
PAGE LINE CHANGE
III C 21 27 Add "The stated densities on the Land Use
Map pertain to developable portions of the
hills".
III C 27 27 Add " The stated densities on the Land Use
Map, pertain to developable portions of the
hills".
III C 28 1 - 4 Replace with "the commercial district
extends from the eastern City limits to the
western City limits and consists of Highway
111 and El Paseo".
III C 28 7 - 8 Delete "the types and their uses include".
III C 33 11 - 12 Change "Central Portion" to "central portion"
and add "of the district", after central
portion.
III C 34 10 Add "exists" after "now".
III C 35 5 Replace with "have a dual designation of
open space and medium residential density.
The City will make an attempt to purchase
the site, if funding becomes available".
III C 36 26 Change "close to" to "approximately".
III C 38 7 - 8 Delete "or very low (1-3 units per acre) or
rural (1 unit per 5 acres)".
III C 38 10 - 11 Replace "for either low and moderate income"
with "lower cost".
III C 39 6 Delete "the plan".
III C 39 26 Replace "The yet unnamed park" to "Monterey
Park, which will".
RESOLUTION NO. 81-40_ PAGE FOUR
TRANSPORTATION/CIRCULATION ELEMENT
PAGE LINE CHANGE
MAP 1 Change 36th Avenue from Major Thorough-
fare to Arterial Street.
III B 24 13 Add "To implement this policy Sunline
Transit will receive requests for comments
on project proposals located on potential
fixed line bus routes".
RESOLUTION NO. 81-0 PAGE THREE
EXHIBIT A
LAND USE ELEMENT
PAGE LINE CHANGE
III A 2 18 Add after type ". . . due to seismic hazard".
III A 2 19 Delete and replace with: "This element
identifies areas that could possibly ex-
perience natural disaster, which can help
determine which land uses and densities to
allow".
III A 3 13 Add: "The identification of noise areas
can determine appropriate land uses and
densities".
III A 18 18 Replace "major streets" with "the area west
of Cook Street and north of Country Club
Drive".
III A 18 21 Change "convertional" to "conventional"
III A 19 3 Change "sections" to "areas".
III A 19 12, 13 Change "the proposed alignment of Frank
Sinatra Drive" to "Interstate 10".
III A 19 18, 19 Delete "area between the proposed align-
ments of Frank Sinatra Drive and 36th
Avenue".
III A 19 21 Add "Hillside densities pertain to
developable portions of the hills".
III A 19 22, 23 Delete
III A 21 16 Delete "east".
III A 21 17, 18 Delete "and north and south of Highway
III at the eastern city limits".
III A 23-A 25 - Delete text under F. ALTERNATIVE TO LAND
USE PLAN FOR NORTH SPHERE AREA and Figure
3.
III A 23 11 Add: "F. OFFICE/PROFESSIONAL: This use is
proposed adjacent to the Regional Commercial
area and adjacent to the Core Commercial
area. This designation is intended to provide
a use characterized by low traffic generation
and intended to encourage low profile develop-
ment compatible with surrounding or abutting
residential districts. Low profile develop-
ment is intended to mean that the structure
will take on a residential character to its
design.
' RESOLUTION NO. 81-40 _ PAGE ELEVEN
PAGE LINE CHANGE
V D 13 FIGURE 3 Retitle exhibit to: "Taxonomy of Critical
and Essential Facilities".
V D 22 7 Change to read "public utility facilities".
CITY OF PALM DESERT
TRANSMITTAL LETTER
I. TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
II. REQUEST: Certification of Environmental Impact Reports and approval
of General Plan Update for the City of Palm Desert.
III. APP'_TCANT: CITY OF PALM DESERT
IV. CASE NO: GPA 01-80
V. DATE: March 12, 1981
,z
VI. 'CONTENTS:
A. Staff Recommendation.
B. Discussion.
C. Draft Resolution Nos. 81-39 and81-40.
D. Planning Commission Minutes invo vlving Case No. GPA 01-80.
E. Planning Commission Resolution Nos. 680 and 681.
F. Planning Commission Staff Reports dated December 11, 1980, and
February 3, 1981.
G. Related maps and/or exhibits.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A. STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt City Council Resolution do. 81-39, certifying final Environmental
Impact Reports as they pertain to the proposed General Plan.
Adopt City Council Resolution No. 81-40, approving the General Plan
Update.
B. DISCUSSION:
The Planning Commission held public hearings on the General Pla/i Update and
related E T s on December 11, 1980 and February 3, 1981; approval of all
documents came on the latter date by unanimous vote (4-0) . This culminated
a process which began in July, 1979. Between 1979 and November 1980, the
'Commission sent a summary of the update to every household in the entire
planning area, which includes incorporated city limits and unincorporated
adopted spheres of influence. In addition, copies of the documents were
sent to governmental agencies, news media and other organizations for
comments. Based on response and comments, the documents were further
refined.
Since the Planning Commission hearings of February 3, 1981, the land use
map has been changed to reflect the Commission's and Staff's recommendation
on potential useage along I-10. A dual designation of commercial and
low density residential (3-5 dwelling units per acre) has been placed on
this area adjacent to I-10 and the Southern Pacific Railroad.
RESOLUTION NO. 81-39
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM
DESERT, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING THE PALM DESERT GENERAL
PLAN.
CASE NO. GPA 01-80
WHEREAS, the City Council did on March 12, 1981, hold a duly noticed Public
Hearing to consider the Public Hearing Draft of the Palm Desert General Plan, dated
November, 1980, which encompasses the total Palm Desert Planning Area as approved by
the City Council ;
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Palm Desert, after a duly
noticed Public Hearing on February 3, 1981, did by Planning Commission Resolution
No. 681, recommend approval of the General Plan as amended;
WHEREAS, the General Plan has complied with the requirements of the "City
of Palm Desert Procedures to Implement the California Environmental Quality Act,
Resolution No. 80-89", in that final Environmental Impact Reports were presented at
a duly noticed Public Hearing held on March 12, 1981, and the City Council at the
close of the hearing did certify said reports as the Final Environmental Impact Reports
on this project to include:
1. The Draft EIRs.
2. Comments received on the Draft EIRs in writing or as a part of the
public hearings.
3. The staff report prepared on the EIRs for the following reasons:
a) The final EIRs are in compliance with the requirements of
CEQA.
b) The final EIRs do adequately address the environmental
effects of the General Plan.
WHEREAS, at said Public Hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimony
and arguments of all persons desiring to be heard, said City Council did find the
following facts and reasons to exist to approve the General Plan:
1. The Palm Desert General Plan does comply to the requirements of
the State Government Code.
2. The document as amended adequately represents a comprehensive,
long-term general plan for the physical development of the City
and its planning area.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Palm
Desert as follows:
1. That the above recitations are true and correct and constitute
the findings of the Commission in this case.
2. That it does approve the Public Hearing Draft of the Palm Desert
General Plan, dated November, 1980, as amended by the attachment
labeled Exhibit "A" for the reasons set out in this resolution.
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Palm Desert City
Council , held on this day of 1981, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
ATTEST: S. ROY WILSON, Mayor
SHEILA R. GILLIGAN, City Clerk
City of Palm Desert, California
RESOLUTION NO. 81-40
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM
DESERT, CALIFORNIA, CERTIFYING FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT REPORTS AS THEY PERTAIN TO THE PROPOSED PALM
DESERT GENERAL PLAN.
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California, did on
March 12, 1981, hold a duly noticed Public Hearing to consider the Certification of
Final Environmental Impact Reports as they pertain to the proposed General Plan;
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Palm Desert, California,
did on ,�the 3rd day of February, 1981, recommend certification of Final Environmental
Impact,,'Reports as they pertain to the proposed General Plan by adoption of Planning
Commis, ion Resolution No. 680;
WHEREAS, said application has complied with the requirements of the "City
of Palm Desert Procedures to Implement the California Environmental Quality Act,
Resolution No. 80-89", in that draft Environmental Impact Reports have been completed
in accordance with the requirements of CEQA; and,
WHEREAS, at said Public Hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimony
and arguments, if any, of all interested persons desiring to be heard, said Commission
did find the following facts to justify their actions, as described below:
1. The EIRs have been completed in accordance with the requirements
of CEQA.
2. Any potential adverse impacts have been considered as a part of
the EIRs submitted.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Palm
Desert, California, as follows:
1. That the above recitations are true, correct and constitute
the findings of the Council in these cases.
d
2. That the City Council does hereby certify the final EIRs as
complete to include:
a) ,. The draft EIRs;
b) Comments received on the draft EIRs and related responses
by City; and,
c) Public testimony regarding the EIRs during the Public
Hearings and related responses.
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED at the meeting of the Palm Desert City
Council on the day of 1981, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
S. ROY WILSON, Mayor
ATTEST:
SHEILA R. GILLIGAN, City Clerk
City of Palm Desert, California
RESOLUTION NO. 8 1-4 0 Page Two
EXHIBIT A
LAND USE ELEMENT
PAGE LINE CHANGE
III A 2 18 Add after type ". . . due to seismic hazard".
III A 2 19 Delete and replace with: "This element
identifies areas that could possibly ex-
perience natural disaster, which can help
' determine which land uses and densities to
allow".
IIh!A 3 13 Add: "The identification of noise areas
can determine appropriate land uses and
densities".
K
III A 18 18 Replace "major streets" with "the area west
of Cook Street and north of Country Club
Drive".
III A 18 21 Change "convertional" to "conventional"
III A 19 3 Change "sections" to "areas".
III A 19 12, 13 Change "the proposed alignment of Frank
Sinatra Drive" to "Interstate 10".
III A 19 18, 19 Delete "area between the proposed align-
ments of Frank Sinatra Drive and 36th
Avenue".
III A 19 21 Add "Hillside densities pertain to
developable portions of the hills".
r'r
III A 19 22, 23 Delete
III A 21 16 Delete "east".
III A 21 17, 18 Delete "and north and south of Highway
111 at the eastern city limits".
III A 23-A 25 - Delete text under F. ALTERNATIVE TO LAND
USE PLAN FOR NORTH SPHERE AREA and Figure
3.
III A 23 11 Add: "F. OFFICE/PROFESSIONAL: This use is
proposed adjacent to the Regional Commercial
area and adjacent to the Core Commercial
area. This designation is intended to provide
a use characterized by low traffic generation
and intended to encourage low profile develop-
ment compatible with surrounding or abutting
residential districts. Low profile develop-
ment is intended to mean that the structure
will take on a residential character to its
design.
RESOLUTION NO. 81-40 Page Three
TRANSPORTATION/CIRCULATION ELEMENT
PAGE LINE CHANGE
MAP 1 Change 36th Avenue from Major Thorough-
fare to Arterial Street.
III 6 24 13 Add "To implement this policy Sunline
Transit will receive requests for comments
on project proposals located on potential
fixed line bus routes".
1
RESOLUTION NO. 8 1-4 0 Page Four
URBAN DESIGN/SCENIC HIGHWAY ELEMENT
PAGE LINE CHANGE
III C 21 27 Add "The stated densities on the Land Use
Map pertain to developable portions of the
hills".
III C 27 27 Add " The stated densities on the Land Use
r— Map, pertain to developable portions of the
hills".
III C 28 1 - 4 Replace with "the commercial district
extends from the eastern City limits to the
western City limits and consists of Highway
111 and El Paseo".
III C 28 7 - 8 Delete "the types and their uses include".
III C 33 11 - 12 Change "Central Portion" to "central portion"
and add "of the district", after central
portion.
III C 34 10 Add "exists" after "now".
III C 35 5 Replace with "have a dual designation of
open space and medium residential density.
The City will make an attempt to purchase
the site, if funding becomes available".
III C 36 26 Change "close to" to "approximately".
III C 38 7 - 8 Delete "or very low (1-3 units per acre) or
rural (1 unit per 5 acres)".
III C 38 10 - 11 Replace "for either low and moderate income"
with "lower cost".
III C 39 6 Delete "the plan".
III C 39 26 Replace "The yet unnamed park" to "Monterey
Park, which will".
RESOLUTION NO. g 1-40 Page Five
HOUSING ELEMENT
PAGE LINE CHANGE
IV A 4 19 Delete "structures and rehabilitation where".
IV A 6 13 Change "nean" to "mean".
IV A 23 14 Change "moderage" to "moderate".
IV A '25 9 Change "low and moderate income", to "lower
cost".
IV A''29 14 Change "low and moderate income" to "lower
g' cost".
IV A 30 2 Change "low and moderate income", to "lower
cost".
IV 30 14 Change "low and moderate income", to "lower
cost".
IV 30 17 Change "low and moderate income", to "lower
cost".
1
RESOLUTION NO. 81-40 r 41' Page Six
POPULATION/ECONOMICS ELEMENT
PAGE ' LINE CHANGE
IV B 8 24 Change "Has" to "has".
IV B 9 17 Add "is approximately 4,800 after
"seasonable population". Change "there"
to "There".
IV a,10 20 Change "of which" to"factor".
{
/
RESOLUTION NO. 81-40 Page Seven
CONSERVATION/OPEN SPACE/RECREATION ELEMENT
PAGE LINE CHANGE
V A 10 4 Add "and maintain" after "for".
V A 22 16 - 17 Delete and replace with "have signed
a lease allowing the City to develop
approximately 15 acres of the proposed
high school site for a sports complex
V A 23 TABLE 2 Change acreage of Palm Desert Community
Center from "29" to 1140".
Change Subtotal of Existing Developed
Sites from "40.8" to 1151 .811
.
Change "Sports Center" to "Sports Complex"
and change acreage from "10" to "15".
Change "Unnamed Park", to "Monterey Park".
Change Proposed Sites Subtotal from "509.0",
to "514.0".
Change Total Sites Acreage from "621 .3",
to "636.3".
V A 31 18 Change "partion" to "portion".
V A 32 3 Add: ."The City should consider the adoption
of an Ordinance to develop the mechanics
by which historic and cultural resources
may be identified, preserved, protected and
enhanced, if said ordinance is deemed
necessary upon completion of a comprehensive
survey of historic sites.
V A 37 19 Change "basketbell", to "basketball".
RESOLUTION NO. 81-40 `wo Page Eight
ENERGY ELEMENT
PAGE LINE CHANGE
V B 2 18 Delete "low and moderate and".
i
r
RESOLUTION NO. -
81 4.Q Page Nine
SEISMIC SAFETY ELEMENT
PAGE LINE CHANGE
V D 2 Add between paragraphs 3 and 4: "The
inclusion of public utilities in these
documents is not intended to put the
City in the position of being an
additional approving or monitoring
agency for the utilities, although local
- standards should be met. It is recognized
that the California Energy and Public
Utilities Commissions have pre-empted
local jurisdiction over the regulation of
public utilities. However, both Commissions
'. are required to seek local input to their
approval of construction and operating
procedures for public utilities. Inclusion
of public utilities in this Element is
intended to provide part of that comment.
V D 2 20 Add after Element: "The Technical Report is
accepted by the City of Palm Desert, but
is not adopted as part of this Element. The
design criteria and seismic response criteria
presented in the report, are one of several
possible interpretations.
V D 12 Add between paragraphs 1 and 2: "The following
definitions are used in the discussion of
critical , essential and normal facilities:
Critical : includes uses whose collapse poses
extreme, if not catastrophic, hazards to life,
property and community functioning. Collapse
of these structures or facilities is clearly
unacceptable, and the highest level of safety
is mandatory. Critical" structures and z.
facilities may suffer some damage in a natural
disaster, but must not pose a threat to human
life.
Essential : includes uses whose collapse could
severely impair the community's ability to
recover from a natural disaster. It is
recognized that there may be some temporary
service disruptions because of damage to
individual facilities; however, these should
not impair the community's recovery since
delivery system as a whole, should continue
supplying essential services.
Normal High Risk: includes structures of
facilities which because of high occupancy,
or potential use in disaster response operations,
should not collapse and should afford occupants
a high level of safety. Some damage, including
structural , and injury may occur, but loss of
life should be rare.
Normal Low Risk: includes the vast majority
of structures. Structures should resist minor
earthquakes without damage, resist moderate
earthquakes without structural damage (although
nonstructural damage may occur) , and resist
major earthquakes, of the intensity or severity
of the strongest experienced in California,
without collapse, but with some structural as
well as nonstructural damage".
continued. . .
RESOLUTION NO. 81-40 ' ' Page Ten
PAGE LINE CHANGE
V D 13 FIGURE 3 Retitle exhibit to: "Taxonomy of Critical
and Essential Facilities".
V D 22 7 Change to read "public utility facilities".
I
1000,
MINUTES
PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
FEBRUARY 3, 1981 Page Two
VI. PUBLIC HEARINGS (cont. )
B. Case No. GPA 01-80 - CITY OF PALM DESERT, Applicant
A request for consideration of the General Plan Update and
Environmental Impact Reports.
Mr. Diaz presented this case indicating that staff had been working on this
case for a long time and that previous Public Hearings were held. He stated that a
summarof the General Plan Update was provided to the Commission and reviewed the
staff ". port which included responses to comments made from the public. He
described the proposed changes to the General Plan Update and explained the pro-
cedures once this was approved. Staff recommended approval to the City Council of
certification of the EIR and adoption of the General Plan Update.
Commissioner Berkey asked about the use of zone overlays with would allow
high densities for affordable housing. Mr. Diaz informed him that any area would
qualify for high density, but preferrably areas with large acreage and a small
number of owners would be more practical .
Vice Chairman Kryder opened the Public Hearing and asked if anyone wished
to comment. There being none, the Public Hearing was closed.
Motion was made by Commissioner Richards, seconded by Commissioner Berkey,
to recommend approval to the City Council of certification of the Environmental
Impact Reports by adoption of Planning Commission Resolution No. 680; and, adoption
of the General Plan Update by adoption of Planning Commission Resolution No. 681.
Carried unanimously (4-0).
Case No. ZOA -81 - CITY OF PALM DE ERT, Appli.can
A request for an endment to Municipal ode, Chapter .66
garding the regul ion of Home Occupati s. y.
Mr. Diaz xplained the propo d amendments to the me Occupati9 section
nd stated why th, a changes were nec ssary. He noted a re 'sion to Exhi it "A"
s tion M, should r ad: No more than 00 sq.ft. of the dwel ing area sh%Heari
emp yed for the hom occupation".
ice Chairman Kry r opened the Publi Hearing and asked if nyone
to speak in FAVOR or OPPO TION to this case. There being none, the ublg
was close .
Motion as made by Commi ioner Berkey, sec ded by Commissioner R hards,
to recommend ap oval of this ame dment to the City uncil by adoption of tanning
ommission Resold ion No. 682. Ca ied unanimously
VII. OLD BUSINESS - ONE
VIII. N BUSINESS
A. roposed Amendme is to Zoning Ordi nces - Temporary ses and
M el Home Comple
Mr. Diaz ated that staf was attempting to amend the Tempora Use Permits
sdction for furthe clarification provide a metho to repeal a TUP a d a method of
appe ling the decis n of the Zoning dministrator. H stated that esta ishing
a new odel Home Comp ex section woul also further cla 'fy this section i terms
of adequ to parking, garage conversion, etc. He asked fo minute action to 'nitiate
public hea 'ngs for the x de changes.
Vice Ch *rman Kryder sked if design enters would be 1 cluded in the
Model Homes section. Mr. Dia replied that i does.
Commissioner ichards ask if it determi ed what would be ne to the
complexes afterwards. Mr. Diaz re lied it did an they would requir applicants
to bond to insure that ey will be eturned to a r sidential use.
Minute motion was ma by Commis loner Richards, seconded by Commissioner
McLachlan, to direct staff to proceed wi \amendment pro dures. Carried unanimously (4-0'
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. �
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF PALM
DESERT, CALIFORNIA, CERTIFYING FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
REPORTS AS THEY PERTAIN TO THE PROPOSED GENERAL PLAN.
CASE NO. GPA 01-80
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Palm Desert, California,
did hold a duly noticed Public Hearing on the 3rd day of February, 1981, to consider
the Certification of Final Environmental Impact Reports as they pertain to the proposed
General Plan;
WHEREAS, said application has complied with the requirements of the "City
of Palm Desert Procedures to Implement the California Environmental Quality Act,
Resolution too. 80-89", in that draft Environmental Impact Reports have been completed
in accordance with the requirements of CEQA; and,
WHEREAS, at said Public Hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimony
and arguments, if any, of all interested persons desiring to be heard, said Commission
did find the following facts to justify their actions, as described below:
1. The EIRs have been completed in accordance with the requirements
of CEQA.
2. Any potential adverse impacts have been considered as a part of the
EIRs submitted.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Planning Commission of the City of
Palm Desert, California, as follows:
1. That the above recitations are true, correct and constitute
the findings of the Commission in these cases. -
2. That the Planning Commission does hereby certify the final
EIRs as complete to include:
a) The draft EIRs; r
b) Comments received on the draft EIRs and related responses by
City; and,
c) Public testimony regarding the EIRs during the Public
Hearings and related responses.
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED at the meeting of the Palm Desert Planning
Commission on the 3rd day of February, 1981, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
CHARLES MILLER, Chairman
ATTEST:
RAMON A. DIAZ, Secretary
/lr
yk�
' ..
NOW
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 049I
+ A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF PALM
DESERT, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AND RECOMMENDING TO THE CITY
COUNCIL THE APPROVAL OF THE PALM DESERT GENERAL PLAN.
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Palm Desert, California,
did on the 3rd day of February, 1981, hold a duly noticed Public Hearing to consider
the Public Hearing draft of the Palm Desert General Plan, dated November, 1980, which
encompasses the total Palm Desert Planning Area as approved by the City Council ; and,
_. WHEREAS, the General Plan has complied with the requirements of the "City
of the.Palm Desert Procedures to Implement the California Environmental Quality Act,
Resolution No'. 80-89", in that final Environmental Impact Reports were presented at
a dulynoticed Public Hearing held February 3, 1981, and the Planning Commission
recommended said reports to the City Council for certification as final Environmental
Impact`' Reports to include:
1. the Draft EIRs.
K2. Comments received on the Draft EIRs in writing or as a part of the
public hearings.
3. The staff report prepared on the EIRs for the following reasons:
a) the final EIRs are in compliance with the requirements of
CEQA.
b) The final EIRs do adequately address the environmental
effects of the General Plan.
WHEREAS, at said Public Hearing, upon hearing and considering the testimony
and arguments of all persons desiring to be heard, said Planning Commission did find
the following facts and reasons to exist to approve the General Plan;
1. The Palm Desert General Plan does comply to the requirements of the
State Government Code.
2. The document as amended adequately represents a comprehensive,
long-term general plan for the physical development of the City
and its planning area.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Planning Commission of the City of Palm Desert Desert as follows:
1. That the above recitations are true and correct and constitute
the findings of the Commission in this case.
2. That it does approve the Public Hearing draft of the Palm Desert
General Plan, dated November, 1980, and recommends approval to the
City Council as amended by the attachment labeled Exhibit "A" for the
reasons set out in this resolution.
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Palm Desert
Planning Commission, held on the 3rd day of February, 1981, by the following vote,'
to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
ATTEST: CHARLES MILLER, Chairman
RAMON A. DIAZ, Secretary
/lr
EXHIBIT A
LAND USE ELEMENT
PAGE LINE CHANGE
III A 2 18 Add after type ". . . due to seismic hazard".
III A 2 19 Delete and replace with: "This element
identifies areas that could possibly ex-
perience natural disaster, which can help
determine which land uses and densities to
allow".
IIIT A 3 13 Add: "The identification of noise areas
can determine appropriate land uses and
densities".
III A 18 18 Replace "major streets" with "the area west
of Cook Street and north of Country Club
Drive".
'III A 18 21 Change "convertional" to "conventional"
III A 19 3 Change "sections" to "areas".
III A 19 12, 13 Change "the proposed alignment of Frank
Sinatra Drive" to "Interstate 10".
III A 19 18, 19 Delete "area between the proposed align-
ments of Frank Sinatra Drive and 36th
Avenue".
III A 19 21 Add "Hillside densities pertain to
developable portions of the hills".
III A 19 22, 23 Delete
III A 21 16 Delete "east".
III A 21 17, 18 Delete "and north and south of Highway
111 at the eastern city limits".
III A 23-A 25 - Delete text under F. ALTERNATIVE TO LAND
USE PLAN FOR NORTH SPHERE AREA and Figure
3.
III A 23 11 Add: "F. OFFICE/PROFESSIONAL: This use is
proposed adjacent to the Regional Commercial
area and adjacent to the Core Commercial
area. This designation is intended to provide
a use characterized by low traffic generation
and intended to encourage low profile develop-
ment compatible with surrounding or abutting
residential districts. Low profile develop-
ment is intended to mean that the structure
will take on a residential character to its
design.
TRANSPORTATION/CIRCULATION ELEMENT
PAGE LINE CHANGE
MAP 1 Change 36th Avenue from Major Thorough-
fare to Arterial Street.
III B 24 13 Add "To implement this policy Sunline
Transit will receive requests for comments
on project proposals located on potential
fixed line bus routes".
URBAN DESIGN/SCENIC HIGHWAY ELEMENT
PAGE LINE CHANGE
III C 21 27 Add "The stated densities on the Land Use
Map pertain to developable portions of the
hills".
III C 27 27 Add " The stated densities on the Land Use
Map, pertain to developable portions of the
hills".
I_II C 28 1 - 4 Replace with "the commercial district
extends from the eastern City limits to the
western City limits and consists of Highway
111 and E1 Paseo".
III C 28 7 - 8 Delete "the types and their uses include".
III C 33 11 - 12 Change "Central Portion" to "central portion"
and add "of the district" , after central
portion.
III C 34 10 Add "exists" after "now".
III C 35 5 Replace with "have a dual designation of
open space and medium residential density.
The City will make an attempt to purchase
the site, if funding becomes available".
III C 36 26 Change "close to" to "approximately".
III C 38 7 - 8 Delete "or very low (1-3 units per acre) or
rural (1 unit per 5 acres)".-
III C 38 10 - 11 Replace "for either low and moderate income"
with "lower cost".
III C 39 6 Delete "the plan".
III C 39 26 Replace "The yet unnamed park" to "Monterey
Park, which will".
�wr wn
HOUSING ELEMENT
PAGE LINE CHANGE
IV A 4 19 Delete "structures and rehabilitation where".
IV A 6 13 Change "nean" to "mean".
IV A 23 14 Change "moderage" to "moderate".
IV A'25 9 Change "low and moderate income", to "lower
cost".
IV A'29 14 Change "low and moderate income" to "lower
Y'
cost".
IV A 30 2 Change "low and moderate income", to "lower
cost".
r
IV 30 14 Change "low and moderate income" , to "lower
cost".
IV 30 17 Change "low and moderate income", to "lower
cost".
POPULATION/ECONOMICS ELEMENT
PAGE LINE CHANGE
IV B 8 24 Change "Has" to "has".
IV B 9 17 Add "is approximately 4,800", after
"seasonable population". Change "there"
to "There".
IV 910 20 Change "of which" to"factor".
I
CONSERVATION/OPEN SPACE/RECREATION ELEMENT
' PAGE LINE CHANGE
V A 10 4 Add "and maintain" after "for".
V A 22 16 - 17 Delete and replace with "have signed
a lease allowing the City to develop
approximately 15 acres of the proposed
high school site for a sports complex
V A 23 TABLE 2 Change acreage of Palm Desert Community
Center from "29" to "40".
Change Subtotal of Existing Developed
Sites from "40.8" to 1151 .8".
Change "Sports Center" to "Sports Complex"
and change acreage from "10" to "15".
Change "Unnamed Park", to "Monterey Park".
Change Proposed Sites Subtotal from "509.0",
to "514.0".
Change Total Sites Acreage from "621 .3",
to "636.3".
V A 31 18 Change "partion" to "portion".
V A 32 3 Add: , "The City should consider the adoption
of an Ordinance to develop the mechanics
by which historic and cultural resources
may be identified, preserved, protected and
enhanced, if said ordinance is deemed
necessary upon completion of a comprehensive
survey of historic sites.
V A 37 19 Change "basketbell ", to "basketball".
ENERGY ELEMENT
PAGE LINE CHANGE
V B 2 18 Delete "low and moderate and".
SEISMIC SAFETY ELEMENT
PAGE LINE CHANGE
V D 2, Add between paragraphs 3 and 4: "The
inclusion of public utilities in these
documents is not intended to put the
City in the position of being an
additional approving or monitoring
agency for the utilities, although local
standards should be met. It is recognized
that the California Energy and Public
Utilities Commissions have pre-empted
local jurisdiction over the regulation of
public utilities. However, both Commissions
t` are required to seek local input to their
approval of construction and operating
procedures for public utilities. Inclusion
of public utilities in this Element is
intended to provide part of that comment.
V D 2 20 Add after Element: "The Technical Report is
accepted by the City of Palm Desert, but
is not adopted as part of this Element. The
design criteria and seismic response criteria
presented in the report, are one of several
possible interpretations.
V D 12 Add between paragraphs 1 and 2: "The following
definitions are used in the discussion of
critical , essential and normal facilities:
Critical : includes uses whose collapse poses
extreme, if not catastrophic, hazards to life,
property and community functioning. Collapse
of these structures or facilities is clearly
unacceptable, and the highest level of safety
is mandatory. Critical' structures and
facilities may suffer some damage in a natural
disaster, but must not pose a threat to human
life.
Essential : includes uses whose collapse could
severely impair the community's ability to
recover from a natural disaster. It is
recognized that there may be some temporary
service disruptions because of damage to
individual facilities; however, these should
not impair the community's recovery since
delivery system as a whole, should continue
supplying essential services.
Normal High Risk: includes structures of
facilities which because of high occupancy,
or potential use in disaster response operations,
should not collapse and should afford occupants
a high level of safety. Some damage, including
structural , and injury may occur, but loss of
life should be rare.
Normal Low Risk: includes the vast majority
of structures. Structures should resist minor
earthquakes without damage, resist moderate
earthquakes without structural damage (although
nonstructural damage may occur) , and resist
major earthquakes, of the intensity or severity
of the strongest experienced in California,
without collapse, but with some structural as
well as nonstructural damage".
continued. . .
PAGE LI CHANGE *10
V D 13 FIGURE 3 Retitle exhibit to: "Taxonomy of Critical
and Essential Facilities".
V D 22 7 Change to read "public utility facilities".
K
t
j.
CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
TO: Planning Commission
REPORT ON: Environmental Impact Report and General Plan for the
City of Palm Desert
CASE NO: GPA 01-80
DATE: Februafy 3, 1981
I. PURPOSE
This report summarizes the Draft Environmental Impact Reports (DEIR) on the
General Plan Update and North Sphere of Influence Area and responds to
comments, received from the public, on the documents. A summary of the
General Plan Update was provided to the Commission prior to the public study
session of December 11, 1980, and, therefore, is not part of this staff
report.
It will be the Commission's responsibility to: read the draft documents,
which were delivered to Commissioners last November, as well as the summary
of comments and response to comments, and to use the information in your
decision-making process. The draft document, public comments and responses
thereto, as well as Commissioner's comments, will then be forwarded along
with the General Plan to the City Council for final adoption.
II. BACKGROUND
By State Law, the preparation and adoption of a General Plan (Government Code
Section 6500 et. seq. ) and accompanying Environmental Impact Reports (Public
Resources Code Section 2100 et. seq. ) is a responsibility assigned to all
municipalities in California. The Draft General Plan Update was completed by
the Department of Environmental Services while the Draft Environmental Impact
Reports were completed by the Planning Center under the direction of the
Department.
Two EIRs were completed for the General Plan Update--one covering the entire
planning area and one covering the North Sphere area. Both areas are defined
in the applicable EIR. A separate EIR for the North Sphere was completed -
since future annexations to the City will occur in this area and the EIR could
expedite annexation and planning of the area.
As soon as the Draft EIRs were received, a Notice of Completion was sent to
the State Clearinghouse in Sacramento and to the Regional Clearinghouse in
Los Angeles indicating that the City was preparing to circulate the General
Plan/EIR documents to public agencies for their review and comments. Over
fifty (50) agencies, organizations and individuals received the document; a
list of those receiving the document is provided in Appendix A. Additionally,
the City sent a summary of the General Plan to every resident of Palm Desert;
a list of those residents responding to our request for comments is provided
in Appendix B. A discussion of comments received appears later in the report.
III. SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORTS
The early sections of the reports outline the planning area and describe the
primary features of the physical environment. Various sections of the
General Plan provide information on topography, geography, soils, seismic
and other geologic hazards, flooding, vegetation, and wildlife. This is
supplemented with discussions on the climate, air quality, hydrology, and
mineral resources found in the area. The existing man-made physical
environment is dealt with in detail in the General Plan Elements on population
and economics, housing conditions, circulation systems, and public facilities.
-1-
EIR AND GP STAFF REPORT
February 3, ,1981
III. SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORTS (cont. )
Section III describes how the implementation of the General Plan would affect
the environment and what has been proposed to minimize negative impacts. In
1 some areas the Planning Center has recommended changes to the General Plan;
these are indicated. Findings of the EIRs are summarized below:
Although urbanization of the area will effect the topography and visual
climate of the general area the effects should be minimized by the
a
objectives and policies of the General Plan;
- Exposure to earthquake, blowsand, and flood hazard areas can be minimized-
through the proper use of zoning ordinances, building codes and other
K
available development controls;
- Loss of portions of existing species of both native plant and animal
habitats due to development of the valley floor is minimized by provisions
in the General Plan, which protect all rare and endangered species in the
planning area;
Provisions for the conservation of unique natural areas in the Conserva-
tion/Open Space/Recreation Element, the preservation of scenic vistas in
the Urban Design/Scenic Highway Element, the increased acquisition of
public parks, the protection by the Bureau of Land Management, State Game
Refuge and Boyd Deep Canyon Research Area all serve to offset the loss of
existing open space as vacant land is developed;
- As development occurs air quality is expected to decline, primarily as a
result of the increased number and distance of auto trips. Although
emission control standards are not in local hands, implementation policies
in the Land Use, Transportation/Circulation and Urban Design/Scenic
Highway Elements could reduce the amount of pollutants by encouraging
cluster rather than sprawl development, thus enabling use of circulation
systems other than the private auto;
- Developmental and architectural controls should greatly improve the
aesthetic quality of the planning area;
- The General Plan will require an extensive increase in new urban infra-
structure and public facility needs at complete development. Funds for
these improvements can be generated by a variety of revenue sources and
without placing a burdensome tax load on the existing residents;
- There is a need to provide additional traffic capacity from the west
into the City now. Transportation will be affected by the Transportation/
Circulation Element which contains recommendations for improving existing
modes of travel and for the creation of alternative systems;
- Noise impacts will be temporary due to construction activities and long
range due to increased circulation and resulting traffic. Mitigating
measures have been recommended in the Noise Element;
- Impacts to public services, facilities and utilities could be minimized
through the implementation of the General Plan; and,
- Greater cooperation with the Cities of Rancho Mirage and Indian Wells
and `with Riverside County could assure that the area abutting the
communities would compliment each other.
One purpose of the General Plan program is to balance man's activity with
environmental considerations. Section IV of the DEIR lists those adverse
environmental impacts which cannot be avoided. These include:
-2-
)0101
EIR AND GP STAFF REPORT
February 3, 1981
III. SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORTS (cont. )
- Air emissions from mobile and stationary sources from the existing City
and from future growth cannot be totally eliminated;
- The generation of solid wastes in significant amounts probably cannot
be avoided in the foreseeable future. Recycling, composting and re-use
of potential waste products will probably have only a small impact on
the total solid waste generation problem. Land will have to continue
to be committed to landfill sites as a result of this impact. However,
it should be noted that this is a statewide problem and whether the
growth occurs in the Palm Desert area or elsewhere the problems associated
with waste disposal will be there.
- Although moving sensitive land uses away from noise impact areas is the
only workable mitigation measure, this technique does not remove the
noise source itself.
- Wastewater generation is unavoidable and requires the proposed reclamation
program which in turn uses water and energy.
- Floods and earthquakes are unavoidable and can do serious damage if an
event occurs which is greater than planned for.
- Water consumption will increase as growth continues.
- As growth progresses into undeveloped areas there will be removal of flora
and fauna, typical of the desert, although considerable acreage has been
preserved in the southern sphere to assure that the desert environment is
not totally lost.
- There will be an increased amount of runoff due to the covering of portions
of the ground with impermeable materials, although this impact should not
affect any local or downstream systems.
- There will be an increased demand for utilities and public services and
will require the extension of natural gas lines, electrical lines,
telephone services, water and sewer services, as well as .sheriff, fire
and school services.
There are two additional unavoidable impacts which should be mentioned and
eventually included in any final EIR. These include:
- Humidity levels will rise as landscaping associated with increased develop-
ment becomes more pronounced; and,
- Views of the night sky.will be greatly reduced.
Alternatives to the General Plan Update were considered in the DEIR. In
addition to the 1975 General Plan and the Cove Community General Plan
(Riverside County) the Planning Center developed an alternative land use plan
for the northern most portion of- the planning area. The Department proposed.
a third alternative which was described on December 11, 1980.
The balance between short-term and long-term effects of the General Plan is
also discussed. In the short-term, impacts will be associated with construc-
tion activities. The plan has provided direction to control such effects.
In the long-term, the General Plan has provided a balanced approach that
controls short-term effects by enhancing and preserving valuable resources
while allowing growth of a balanced community.
Finally, the EIRs summarizes the irreversible or irretrievable environmental
changes. For this project, a further commitment of energy resources and
urbanization and urban expansion are viewed as the major irreversible changes.
-3-
EIR AND GP STAFF REPORT
February 3, 1981 ¢`
IV. COMMENTS RECEIVED
A. Public Agencies: Six public agencies provided comments regarding the
General Plan Update and Environmental Impact Reports. The six agencies
were: SunLine Transit Agency, Office of Road Commissioner and County
Surveyor, Regional Water Quality Control Board, Historical Society of
Palm Desert, Coachella Valley Recreation and Park District, Southern
California Edison and Office of Planning and Research. Comments and
Department responses from each agency are provided below. A copy of
45 each letter is found in Appendix C.
a
-1. SunLine Transit:
Comment: On-pages III B 24 and IV B 30 mention is made of potential
future local bus service; however, the roadway cross sections shown
in figure 1 do not provide for bus turnouts. If the development
K described in the plan occurred, there would be a potential for fixed-
route transit service on several secondary roadways and major
thoroughfares. Where such service is desired, provision should
be made for a bus stop lane no smaller than 10 feet wide and 80 feet
I long. Normally, these should be located as near as possible to inter-
sections, preferably on the far side (directly after passing through
the intersection) . In most non-commercial areas, it would not be
necessary to have stops at every block.
Response: Although the roadway cross sections shown in figure 1 of
The 'Transportation/Circulation Element do not provide for bus turn-
outs their construction as a requirement of street development is
an implementation policy of the element. In the future SunLine
will receive request for comments on project proposals located on
potential fixed line bus routes to facilitate the implementation
of this policy.
Comment: On page III B 21, "Internal Design Guidelines for
Commercial Development," mention should be made of the need to
provide pedestrian access from bus stop locations or potential bus
stop locations to the commercial structures. Pedestrian paths inter-
connecting parcels are desirable for the same reasons that traffic
are desirable. -
Response: The intent of Guideline 2 (Internal Guidelines for
Commercial Development) on page III B 21 is to take the afore-
mentioned concerns into account.
Comment: The Draft Environmental Impact Reports do not address the
potential for transit to mitigate the potential traffic, energy,
and air quality impacts. The EIRs do not address any significant
aspect of public transit except the financial impact of current
services if annexation occurs.
Response: The Planni.ng Center is working on a response.
2. Office of Road Commissioner and County Surveyor:
Comment: We would recommend only that 36th Avenue be changed to
rterial status, providing continuity with the County G P.
Response: 36th Avenue is changed to Arterial status.
.3. California Regional Water Quality Control Board:
Comment: Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the subject
draft plan. We do not have any comments at this time.
i
I Response: No comment necessary.
i -
-4-
i
EIR AND GP STAFF REPORT
February 3, 1981
- IV. COMMENTS RECEIVED (cont. )
4. Historical Society of Palm Desert:
Comment: We feel that at this time it is premature to name historic
sites without completion of a comprehensive survey. A list of important
sites and districts will follow contingent upon the Riverside County
survey now in progress. This survey will provide full inventory of
historic and cultural resources of the Palm Desert area.
Response: As stated on page VA 21 the "list indicates possible sites
or historic preservation" (emphasis added). .The list is not intended
to be an exhaustive list of historic sites.
Comment: We feel that the element should mandate the City government
to adopt an ordinance to develop the mechanics by which historic and
cultural resources may be identified, preserved, protected and enhanced.
We will be glad to provide the City Council with model ordinances, and/or
to do any research required for the creation of an ordinance, and assist
in any other requested way.
Response:
The preservation of public and private buildings which are of
local historical or cultural importance is encouraged as a policy of the
Conservation, Open Space, Recreation Element. '- In order to strengthen
this policy the following is recommended to be added to the first policy
on page VA 32: "The City should consider the adoption of an ordinance
to develop the mechanics by which historic and cultural resources may
be identified, preserved, protected and enhanced if said ordinance is
deemed necessary upon completion of a comprehensive survey of historic
sites. "
Comment: Since ultimate responsibility for the preservation of historic
resources rests with the community, we feel it important to develop
comprehensive programs to acquaint the public with its -he'ritage resources.
As the ordinance commonly provides for an advisory board, and as the City
Council has already appointed an Historical- Commission, this would be
the proper place to legitimatize that Commission.
Response: The Conservation, Open Space, Recreation Element encourages
the development of educational programs by schools and public/private
organizations such as the Historical Society. The City Council legitima-
tize the Historical Commission at the time of the Commission's Creation.
5. Office of Planning and Research:
Comment: The State Clearinghouse submitted the above listed environ-
mental document to selected state agencies for review. The review is
complete and none of the state agencies have comments.
Response: No comment necessary.
6. Coachella Valley Recreation and Park District:
Comment: I question the concept of a collector -street on the west side
of the Palm Valley Storm Channel , especially if it is to be constructed
between our tennis courts and the channel . There is not adequate space
unless the tennis courts were moved. This does not seem realistic in
that we made a 25 year operation and maintenance committment when we
Utilized State funds for their construction.
Response: The design of the collector street adjacent to the channel
has not been finalized. Every attempt will be made to design the street
to minimize the impact on the tennis courts. The City will work with
all property owners in the area when this street is constructed.
-5-
EIR AND GP STAFF REPORT -
February 3, 1981
IV. COMMENTS RECEIVED (cont. )
6. Comment: The extent of our Palm Desert Community Center Park is almost
forty 40) acres. None of the maps in your plan delineate the site as
being this extensive. Will this failure to recognize the boundary of
our property possibly inhibit future development (of the park) or conflict
with the adjacent low density housing designation?
i
.Response: The maps have been changed to indicate 40 acres for the
oC mmunity Center Park.
7. Southern California Edison Company:
s
Comment: Noise Element - Page VC23, Section VII
Because of the nature of work performed by public works organizations
and public utilities, it is necessary to be exempt from the limitations
r usually found in noise elements and/or noise control ordinances. It is
suggested, therefore, that the following clause be added to Page VC23
Section VII of the draft noise element and also incorporated into any
subsequent proposed noise control ordinance or regulation:
"However, the provisions of this section shall not preclude the cons-
truction, operation, maintenance and repairs of equipment, apparatus,
or facilities of park and recreation departments, public work projects,.
or essential public services and facilities, including those of public
utilities subject to the regulatory jurisdiction of the California
Public Utilities Commission."
Response: The proposed Noise Ordinance could allow certain facilities
to be exempted from City standards. However, exemptions should be
decided on upon project review.
Comment: Seismic Safety - Page V02, Section I, Para ra h 4
Add:: After the first sentence of the last paragraph. . -'The Technical
Report is accepted by the City of Palm Desert but is not adopted as part
of this Element. The design criteria and seismic response criteria
presented in the Technical Report are one of several possible inter-
pretations. It will be necessary to update the Technical Report as new
or -more accurate information becomes available."
Add: Between paragraph 3 and 4. . . "The inclusion of public utilities in
these documents is not intended to put the City in the position of being
an additional approving or monitoring agency for the utilities. It is
recognized that the California Energy and Public Utilities Commissions
have pre-empted local jurisdiction over the regulation of public utili-
ties. However, both Commissions are required to seek local input to
their approval of construction and operating procedures for public
utilities. Inclusion of public utilities in this document is intended
to provide that comment.
Response: The additions will be included in the General Plan Update.
_ Comment: Seismic Safety - 'Pa a VD12, Paragraph 1
A definition of t e terms "normal " and ' critical should be contained
in this section in order to refine these categories.
A third classification, "essential facilities", should be included to
cover those users whose collapse could impair the community's ability to
recover from a natural disaster to local individual facilities, but
would be a temporary disruption since delivery systems as a whole can
continue supplying essential services such as power and communications
systems.
-6-
EIR AND GP STAFF REPORT
February 3, 1981
IV. COMMENTS RECEIVED (cont. )
7. Response: The following definitions will be included to the text:
"Critical : includes uses whose collapse poses extreme, if not*,
catastrophic, hazards to life, property and community functioning.
Collapse of these structures or facilities is clearly unacceptable and
the highest level of safety is mandatory. Critical structures and facili-
ties may suffer some damage in a natural disaster, but must not pose a
threat to human life.
Essential : includes uses whose collapse could severely impair the
community's ability to recover from a natural disaster. It is recognized
that there may be some temporary service disruptions because of damage
to individual facilities; however, these should not impair the community's
recovery since delivery systems as a whole should continue supplying
essential services.
Normal-High Risk: includes structures of facilities which, because of
high occupancy or potential use in disaster response operations, should
not collapse and should afford occupants a high level of safety. Some
damage, including structural , and injury may occur, but loss of life
should be rare.
Normal-Low Risk: includes the vast majority of structures. Structures
should resist minor earthquakes without damage, resist moderate earth-
quakes without structural damage (although nonstructural damage may
occur), and resist major earthquakes, of the intensity or severity of
the strongest experienced in California, without collapse, but with some
structural as well as nonstructural damage."
Comment: Seismic Safety - Page VD13, Figure 3
e-l—ete "electrical substations" from this exhibit. The exhibit titled
"Taxonomy of Critical Facilities" should not include electrical sub-
stations in t i�i s category. In the event of a major disaster, some electric
power supplies could be interrupted, hindering relief efforts. However,
the use of secondary sources of power such as on-site generator for
essential services could be examined for use in emergencies as may be
required in the implementation section
Response: The exhibit should be retitled to "Taxonomy of Critical and
Essential Facilities".
Comment: Seismic Safety - 'Page VD22, Paragraph 1, No. 5
Under implementation policies, change item No. 5 to read "public utility
facilities".
Response: Change will be shown.
B. General Public: In addition to comments received from public agencies
Staff received over 80 comments from the general public. A list of those
sending comments appears in Appendix B. Comments covered a wide range of
topics, some of which do not pertain to the General Plan. This section of
the report summarizes and responds to the comments received. In order to
refrain from redundancy, the comments are grouped into topic areas. All
of the comments received are on file with the Department of Environmental
Services for inspection during normal working hours.
L. Drainage/Flood Control : The City has been hit with two floods during
the past four years. Those who commented on the update felt more should
be done to avoid the damage that occurred in the two previous floods.
The General Plan Update recommends that, in light of the two floods, the
City should review the drainage plans covering the City and the North
Sphere area. Additionally, curbs and gutters are recommended for built
up areas. The two drainage plans recommend subsurface drainage facilities
and surface improvements such as curbs and gutters.
-7-
EIR AND GP STAFF REPORT ;, 4
February 3, 1981
IV. COMMENTS RECEIVED (cont. ) a,
1 2. Solar Energy: Comments were calling for active solar systems to be
,;j
required or not to be required.
Solar Energy is discussed in the Energy Element. The element
i recommends that the City undertake a study to determine whether solar
pool heating, weatherstripping and other energy conservation means
should be required. The element does recommend that the City review
and, if necessary, revise various land use controls such as zoning
and subdivision regulations to reduce local consumption of non-
'; renewable energy.
3. Street Landscaping: Additional landscaping on E1 Paseo and Highway
111-mans.
The Urban Design/Scenic Highway Element recommends additional landscaping.
4. Lights: Tennis court lights should be shielded from view of existing
property owners.
This is called for in the Urban Design/Scenic Highway Element.' Also,
during site plan and design review of projects. the amount of light
overflow is considered.
5. Covered Parking/Shade Trees in Retail Area: These were called for to
increase sun protection.
The micro-climate is an important consideration in planning, •especially
in Palm Desert since we experience extremes in weather-hot blistering
summers and winter cold. The Urban Design/Scenic Highway and Safety
Elements discusses various techniques available to mitigate weather
I conditions.
Techniques include landscaping, walls and fountains. Micro-climate
is considered during site plan review.
6. Cultural Auditorium: A few of those who responded felt that there is
a lack of cu tura facilities such as a music center.
The Land Use Elment has designated land for this purpose on Country
Club Drive at the request of the property owner.
7. Low Density: Many comments were directed towards maintaining the low
end s�y of the community.
The Land Use Element provides for a wide range of densities; from one
unit per five acres to over ten units per acre. The overall density
of the City at full development will be about 4 units per acre.
8. 'Hillside Development: The preservation of the hillside via prohibition
of development was called for.
' i Very low densities are recommended in the developable portions of the
hills. Current zoning regulations, the Land Use Element and the Urban
Design/Scenic Highway Element ensures that hillside development will
:be compatible with slope and hillside preservation.
9.: Police/Fire Protection: Some felt that there are not adequate levels
.of po ice fire protection in the City.
The Safety Element and Environmental Impact Report discuss the current
and projected level of police/fire service. Currently the City
contracts with Riverside County for both services. The Element recom-
mends periodic review of the level of service the City receives.
-8-
EIR AND GP STAFF REPORT
February 3, 1981
IV. COMMENTS RECEIVED (cont. )
10. Sign Ordinance: The sign ordinance is considered too restrictive and
revisions to said ordinance is recommended.
The Land Use Element recommends that all land use tools, including the
Sign Ordinance, be reviewed and, if necessary, revised.
11. Recreation: Comments were divided in the area of recreation. Many
called for additional recreational facilities such as bike lanes, parks,
golf course, while many others felt that these facilities are not
essential .
Recreational facilities are discussed in the Land Use and Conservation,
Open Space, Recreation Elements. Parks of varying sizes are recommended
throughout the City. The activites that will occur in these parks will
depend upon the needs of the neighborhood. New facilitiesare intended
to supplement existing facilities. -
12. Public Facilities: Sidewalks, street lights, a high school and public
facilities in the north area of Palm Desert were concerns raised by
the general public.
The Public Facilities and Urban Design/Scenic Highway Elements discuss
these needs. Sidewalks and street lights are recommended in areas with
higher population density. A high school is proposed adjacent to Cook
Street. The Desert Sands Unified School District is the agency respon-
sible for school developemnt. The district is considering the construc-
tion of a high school , but no decision has been made. Finally, an array
of public facilities are recommended for the north area of Palm Desert
throughout the General Plan.
13. Transportation: Concerns of residents in this area included bridges over
J itewater stormwater channel , widen Country Club Drive-i provide other
modes of transportation and the proposed shuttle bus service in commercial
area.
Bridges over the storm channel are proposed for Monterey, Portola and
Cook. The main problem facing the City is appropriating funds for the
construction of the bridges.
The Transportation/Circulation Element indicates Country Club Drive as
an Arterial Street. As development occurs Country Club will be widened.
The proposed Circulation Network, as described in the Transportation/
Circulation Element, serves as the basis for other modes of transportation,
particularly bike lanes and golf cart routes. Other transportation modes
are discussed in the element.
The Transportation/Circulation Element recommends that the City and the
business community study the economic feasibility of creating a shuttle
bus system for the commercial area. Comments ranged from supporting to
opposing the suggestion. Comments also recommended that the business
j community alone should undertake the implementation of the suggestion
and, above all , the shuttle bus system should remain as a private busi-
ness if actually implemented. These recommendations will be considered
when the concept is studied.
14. Housing: The City received many comments regarding housing proposals.
The possibility of low cost housing, the need for affordable housing
and time sharing were the main areas of concern.
The Housing Element provides for a variety of programs that could
encourage the development of a variety of housing types for a variety
of income groups. The Element recognizes the need for "affordable"
housing to meet the need of those who work and would like to live in
Palm Desert. The Element recommends the creation of a higher density
zone overlay to encourage and facilitate a variety of housing types by
-9- -
r t
j EIR AND GP STAFF REPORT
February 3, 1981
I IV. COMMENTS RECEIVED (cont. )
14. providing flexible design standards and other incentives. There has _
been some concern that the overlay will mean a lowering of the City's
1 development standards. Although more flexibility is called for we
` are not lowering our development standards. The provisions of the
overlay will be spelled out in the zoning ordinance.
Many people opposed the construction of government subsidized low cost
j mousing. Voters approved an Article 34 referendum, which permits 5%
of the housing in Palm Desert to be low cost government sponsored housing.
r -It is inevitable that such housing will exist. However, the units will
be scattered throughout the community and will be a small portion of
the entire housing stock.
' The Housing Element does not address the issue of time-sharing. The
jCity Council is currently addressing the issue. A moratorium on its
I development is in effect and the Council will consider an extension of
j; the moratorium at its meeting of February 12, 1981, in order to observe
time-sharing in Palm Springs and to do more study.
The Element also recommends condominium/stock cooperative standards. One
individual was concerned about the displacement of tenants while another
felt that standards should not be approved. The standards are intended
to protect the buyer by assuring that all units meet building, health
and safety codes, and protect the existing tenant by assuring that
'--,there is a sufficient number of rental units available to provide dis-
placed tenants with adequate housing in similar rent ranges.
15. Other Concerns: The City received comments in a variety of other areas;
they y are addressed below.
- More Industry: Approximately 160 acres of land are designated as service
industrial . Additional land may be designated as service industrial
when a specific plan for the north sphere is completed.
; i - Street Repair: Street repair is an item of the Capital/Improvement
.4 gent,—Some streets, such as Highway 111 and Highway 74, are under
the maintenance control of Caltrans.
Water Supply: According to the Environmental Impact Report water
consumption for the City will increase from 40.4 acre feet per day
_ to 105.23 acre feet per day by 2000. The water district has indicated
' that the water basin has the capacity of providing this amount of
water.
V. RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission:
1. Adopt Planning Commission Resolution No. recommending to the
City Council certification of the Environmental Impact Reports as
they relate to the General Plan Update.
2. Adopt Planning Commission Resolution No. recommending to the
City Council adoption of the General Plan Update with recommended
changes and any additional changes the Planning Commission may want
to add as a result of the .public hearing.
-10- _
Y i4
a r^-
1-29-81
RESPONSE TO COMMENTS
Communication from SunLine Transit Agency dated 12-17-81
Comment : DEIR does not address the potential for transit
to mitigate the potential traffic energy and
air quality impacts .
Response : In a general nature the DEIR addresses the
above subject by:
1 ) Supporting the goals and objectives of the
Transportation/Circulation Element which
specifically relates to transit as follows :
--Develop -an efficient , balanced multi -
model transportation system designed to
provide for ' the ;movement of people ,
goods , and services meeting the existing
and future needs of Palm Desert .
--Encourage the development of transporta-
tion facilities for a variety .of trans-
portation modes .
--Explore potentials for implementation of
supplementary intra-city public transit
systems including a tramway for the core
area .
--Continue to cooperate with adjacent
jurisdictions , the Coachella Valley
Associate of Governments and the SunLine
Transit to develop an effective valley-
wide public transit system to serve the
entire valley. (pages 50-51 )
2 ) Encourage less energy use and consequently
reduce the rate at which emission are
produced by . . . . use of mass transit system
improvement . . . ( page 62) .
3_) Support the Land Use Element as follows :
Generally speaking , commercial and public
uses ( primarily parks ) have been proposed
within close proximity of residential
development and would promote fewer vehicu-
lar miles driven . The concentration of
{
commercial along Hwy 111 is energy effi -
cient for the passing motorist , it does
however , encourage intra-city trips . The
proposed intra-city public transit would
improve this condition . . . ( pages 91-92)
In addition to the above , the following discussion is
added to page 79 .
A land use plan will be coordinated with a transportation
plan ( including road network and transit system) resulting
in maximizing the efficiency of the transportation system
and , at the same time, minimizing the adverse influence on
the environment for example , air pollution . An important
goal of a transportation plan is to minimize the amount of
travel required within the .region and yet provide an
acceptable level of service . To the extent that City of
Palm Desert implements the goals and objectives cited
earlier in this response, the transportation system, and
particularly the transit program can reduce potential
impacts to traffic energy and air quality: An example of
this relates to air pollution . •Transportation-related
pollution has accounted for an average of 60 percent of
the total pollutants in the atmosphere for the major
metropolitan areas in the United States . Of this 60 per-
cent , the private automobile contributed from 90 to 95
percent of the air pollution . The private vehicle also
accounts for roughly one-half of the air pollution in the
major metropolitan areas within the United States . As the
use of the private vehicle is reduced and other more effi -
cient modes are used , the impact of transportation to air
quality will be improved .
Source : Transportation and Traffic Engineering Handbook,
John E . Baerwald Editor , 1976 .
CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
TO: Planning Commission
REPORT ON: Draft General Plan Update
DATE: December 11, 1980
I. • BACKGROUND:
'The Planning Commission, on June 20, 1979, directed the Department of Envir-
y-: onmental Services to comprehensively update the adopted General Plan. This
update was deemed necessary since numberous external and internal factors
have started raising questions as to the credibility of the adopted General
Plan. Tonight's study session commences the public review of the Draft
General Plan. It is the first step in finalizing the Draft General Plan.
r Comments received tonight and other evenings will assist the Commission and
Staff on finalizing the draft.
The General Plan is an expression, in words and maps, of City policies regard-
ing future social , economic and physical development. It sets forth the
guidelines to which all development, both public and private, must conform.
The General Plan is the official document governing all City Council , Planning
Commission and administrative decisions regarding zoning, subdivision and
public improvements.
By State Law, the preparation and adoption of a General Plan is a responsi-
bility assigned to all municipalities in California. The Legislature has
identified nine elements that every City must include in its General Plan:
Land Use, circulation, housing, conservation, open space, seismic safety,
noise, scenic highway and safety. In addition to these required elements, the
City has included five additional elements: Urban design, population/economics,
public facilities, energy and recreation.
This staff report concentrates on three elements (land use, circulation, and
housing) , although all of the elements are summarized.
II. LAND USE ELEMENT:
In summary, this element describes the existing and proposed land uses of the
City and its surrounding sphere of influence and shows how they relate to one
another. This element proposes future land uses which incorporates higher
density development to ensure against urban sprawl and a consolidation of
support facilities (commercial , industrial , public, etc. ) into areas to
ensure that they provide convenient and complementary services where they are
most needed and best suited.
The Land Use Map includes proposals for each of the major land uses represented
within the entire planning area. Major land uses include: Residential ,
commercial , public facilities, industrial and open space.
Density rangesare established for residential land uses. Density ranges
(from 0-18 units per acre) are used to allow for maximum flexibility in using
zoning ordinance and other planning tools to promote the type of development
that is aesthetically attractive and desirable. The ranges are not meant as
strictly "minimums" or "maximums". The lower figure for each designation
represents a "guaranteed" density and the higher figure represents a "potential "
density that could be designated for an area after certain standards, as
determined by the zoning ordinance, subdivision regulations and other planning
tools, are met.
The major policies of this element are:
- Through environmental and site review assure that development is adequately
served by utilities and public facilities at the time of occupancy.
Staff Report
General Plan Update
December 11, 1980 Page Two
Balance the development of residential area and other activities with
the development of revenue generating land uses.
- Aggressively pursue a program for the unification and integration of the
core commercial area to insure its viability as the major shopping district.
Cooperate with all public agencies concerned with land planning within
Palm Desert's planning area.
Through environmental review, examine all development in light of their
effect on air quality, water, energy and other environmental concerns.
- The intensity and clustering of hillside development should decrease as
the slope increases in such a way that the development is compatible with
slope preservation.
- Periodically review Land Use Map to ensure adequate provision of residential
designation at various densities.
= Encourage the types of commercial and industrial activity which will supply
the City with a broad economic base, provide for the social and economic
need, and address all environmental restraints.
- Revise zoning ordinance to bring the document into conformance with the
General Plan.
- Encourage development of vacant and underutilized land within existing
urban areas presently served by streets, water, sewer and other public
services.
To implement the Land Use Element, three programs are proposed:
- Prepare a Specific Plan for the North Sphere Area: =A specific plan details
the location of different, land uses, public facilities and other matters
necessary to implement the plan. The North Sphere Area, whio°h is located
north of Country Club Drive to Interstate 10 and between Monterey Avenue
and- Cook Street, represents the area of future expansion for Palm Desert.
This area is subjected to environmentally harsh elements such as flooding,
noise and blowsand. Preparation of a specific plan could mitigate many of
these issues prior to development on a large scale.
- Prepare a Development Monitoring System: Rapid development, as experienced
by the City, can have serious economic, social and environmental impacts
on the community. The impacts vary according to how much development occurs,
density and speed in which it emerges and the amount of infrastructure (i .e. ,
sewers, streets, etc. ) required to serve the growth. The purpose of such a
development monitoring system is to monitor development activity to identify
.. and mitigate potential socio-economic and physical land use issues. The
system could identify building activity in a given area and shows where
infrastructure exists. Furthermore, the system could provide information
relating to the marginal cost/revenue of additional development of various
types and a description of how public facilities (e.g. , schools) could be
affected by additional development.
Revision of zoning ordinances and Isubdivision regulations: The Draft
, General Pan recommends that both documents be reviewe and, if necessary,
revised to introduce energy efficiency in buildings and to meet the City's
housing needs.
Staff Report
General Plan Update
December 11, 1980 Page Three
III. TRANSPORTATION/CIRCULATION ELEMENT:
In summary, this element describes the need for an effective circulation
system to serve the present and future City, and describes the various
modes of transportation which must be taken into consideration in order to
have a full array of complementary services and means of access available.
This element proposes a roadway and pathway system which provides for
automobile, bicycle and pedestrian-oriented access and circulation throughout
the City and surrounding areas. While only the main arteries are indicated
on the Circulation Network Map, detailed planning on the local level is
required to complete the system in a manner which will make it effective.
The element also establishes right-of-way standards for the construction of
a variety of road types.
Six types of road classifications were developed for the circulation
network. A description of each follows:
Collector: A street, usually of two lanes, but occasionally four lanes,
esi�gned—to provide access to and from one area of the community to an
arterial or major thoroughfare.
Secondar Roadway: Collects and distributes traffic from major arterials
to local streets or to traffic destinations.
Scenic Secondary Roadway: Same as secondary roadway, but with a raised
landscaped center median as on E1 Paseo.
Major Thoroughfare: A high capacity street of four or more lanes with a
landscaped median (if appropriate), a limited number of cross streets,
stacking and turning lanes and parking and intended to move people through
and within the community.
Arterial Street: A minimum of four lanes, designed to move people from
one part of tie community to another.
Freeway: A high capacity, multi-laned, divided highway of limited access
with grade separated crossings, intended to move people through the
community or region.
The major policies of this element include:
- work with appropriate County, State and Federal Agencies and programs
to refine and implement the circulation network.
- if appropriate, require the integration of neighborhood level bicycle/
pedestrian/golf cart systems.
- if appropriate, require the construction VF bus loading and unloading
areas.
- consider the creation of a bus shuttle system for the commercial area.
- continue the City's share of financial support to SunLine.
- continue to upgrade the circulation network by making the necessary
physical improvements.
- encourage lot and/or access consolidation to reduce the number of ingress/
egress points along major arterials.
- require new commercial developments to provide bicycle parking areas where
bike route access is provided.
Staff Report
General Plan Update
December 11, 1980 Page Four
IV. HOUSING ELEMENT:
This element describes some basic data, indicates trends, and establishes
present and projected housing needs.
The element suggests various techniques that could be employed to facilitate
the construction of affordable housing and deal with other housing problems
in Palm Desert; these include:
- Create a higher density zone overlay; one method available to meet the
City housing needs is to increase the availability of higher density.
This zone overlay could encourage and facilitate a variety of housing
types (single family, apartments, duplexes, town houses, etc. ) by
providing flexible design standards, assisting in the application pro-
cedure and providing other incentives to produce housing residents can
afford.
- In the area of government regulation/assistance, the City should:
1. Examine permit procedures to identify areas where they can
be accelerated to reduce delays, minimize approval time and
reduce cost.
2. Assist in the preparation of Environmental Impact Reports for
low and moderate income housing proposals.
3. Engage, when financially feasible, in land banking, which is the
active acquisition of land by the City.
4. Consider density bonuses to developers providing "affordable"
housing.
5. Examine dwelling unit minimum floor areas to determine whether
requirements may be waived for low and moderate income development
projects.
6. Permit the construction of studio apartments.
7. Permit three story apartment complexes in areas where the site
is not located adjacent to a single family district.
- Establish condominium and stock cooperative conversion standards: The
conversion will be granted if all of the units meet established building
and safety and zoning codes, and all existing City regulations; if there
are sufficient number of rental units available to provide displaced
tenants with adequate housing in similar rent range; and if, upon project
review, the City Council and Planning Commission have determined that the
proposed conversion will not have adverse impacts on the economic, ecologi-
.cal , social and aesthetic qualities of the community, on public health,
safety, and general welfare, and on the availability of multifamily rental
stock.
- Establish resale control on those units that have received government sub-
sidies or assistance.
V. REMAINING ELEMENTS:
URBAN DESIGN/SCENIC HIGHWAY
This element describes the importance of establishing the identity and
character of the City, which in turn, will help to create a greater sense of
appreciation and pride in the community.
In conclusion, this element proposes that various features such as landmarks,
focal points, scenic highway, landscaping and architecture should be utilized
to establish an urban design character for the City as a whole and for the
respective community neighborhoods. The element also recommends the creation
of an Urban Design Manual to provide illustrations of good design principles
to assist the City in evaluating projects on a design basis.
Staff Report
General Plan Update
December 11, 1980 Page Five
PUBLIC FACILITIES
This element discusses the present and future capacities of public facilities
(e.g. , schools, police and fire protection, etc. ) in Palm Desert.
:This element proposes that all of the various factors affecting the provision
;or deliverance of public facilities and/or services in the City be taken into
.:consideration. It further calls for standards and regulations to be reviewed
k'and, if necessary, revised to gaurantee that any adverse effects created by
;; new developments are minimized.
POPULATION/ECONOMICS
In summary, this element provides basic data about the community which
describes its current population, business, and economic base. This data,
along with other information, helps to provide for a better understanding
of the community, along with a projection of future trends which must be
taken into consideration if effectiveness is to result.
In conclusion, this element establishes facts and projections which confirm
that the City has and will continue to experience significant growth, and
should plan accordingly. All the various factors which affect growth should
be carefully monitored and those factors which most influence future develop-
ment-and expansion should be carefully directed through proper planning and
fiscal management.
SAFETY/NOISE/SEISMIC SAFETY
These elements deal with such factors as blowsand, flood control , earthquakes,
public safety, drainage and noise. These elements propose that all of the
various factors affecting the environmental and social� quality of the community
be taken into consideration, and that standards and regulations be reviewed
and, if necessary, revised to ensure that any adverse effects ,created by
continuing development be minimized.
CONSERVATION/OPEN SPACE/RECREATION
In summary, this element inventories and evaluates the existing natural
resources (such as, endangered species and plants), park facilities and
historical buildings within the City and surrounding area.
In conclusion, this element establishes guidelines for the development of
park facilities and for the preservation and protection of the natural
environment during the continuing development of the City.
ENERGY
The primary intent of this element is to provide the necessary planning
(gathering and anlyzing data, establishing goals and objectives, and
formulating implementation policies and programs) to make the City more
energy efficient.
In conclusion, local energy consumption levels could be reduced. The element
describes how land use controls, such as zoning, subdivision regulations, site
plan review can be refined or developed to improve the efficiency of energy
use, and reduce local consumption of non-renewable energy sources, such as oil .
APPENDIX A
AGENCIES, ORGANIZATIONS AND PERSONS
RECEIVING DRAFT GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
AND DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT PREPORTS
1 . City of Indian Wells.
2. City of Rancho Mirage.
3. City of Indio.
4. City of Coachella.
5. City of, Palm Springs.
6. City of Desert Hot Springs.
7. bounty of Riverside (Riverside Planning Office) .
8. :Office of (County) Road Commission and County Surveyor.
9. iRiverside County Sheriff's Department.
10. Office of Planning and Research.
11 . Southern California Association of Governments.
12. California Department of Transportation (San Bernardino Office) .
13' Regional Water Quality Control Board.
14. Coachella Valley County Water District.
15. Desert Sands Unified School District.
16. Southern California Edison Company.
17. General Telephone Company.
18. Southern California Gas Company.
19. Imperial Irrigation District Power Division.
20. Coachella Valley Television.
21 . Palm Desert Disposal Services, Inc.
22. Palm Desert Community Services District.
23. Palm Desert Chamber of Commerce.
24. Palm Desert Property Owners Association.
25. Palm Desert Board of Realtors.
26. Concerned Citizens For Palm Desert.
27. College of the Desert.
28. The Daily Enterprise.
29. The Palm Desert Post.
30. The Daily News.
31 . The Desert Sun.
32. KPSI .
33. KDES.
34. KMIR.
35. KESQ.
36. U.S. Post Office.
37. Riverside County Planning (Indio Office) .
38. State Parks and Recreation.
39. Sunline Transit Agency.
40. Living Desert Reserve.
41 . Cahuilla Hills Improvement Association, Inc.
42. Coachella Valley Recreation and Parks District.
43. Desert Beautiful .
44. Palm Desert Historical Society.
45. Coachella Valley Association of Governments.
46. State Clearinghouse.
47. Local Agency Formation Commission.
48. Palm Springs Unified School District.
49. California Department of Transportation (San Diego Office) .
50. University of California, Riverside.
51 . Desert People's United.
52. Army Corps of Engineers.
53. K-GUY Radio.
54. E1 Paseo Merchants Association.
APPENDIX B
CITIZENS RESPONDING TO CITY'S REQUEST
FOR COMMENTS ON GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
3. Robert Padvano 40. Lloyd Waaga
nan 41 . Jerold Segall
rnest 42. Guy Rorive
ald, Jr. 43. Mr. Leonard J. Lucier
44. Richard Stewart
ner 45. J.R. Noble
r 46. W. Jack Lane
le 47. Robert Fithian
48. Fay Bowie
ver
49. K.G. Stelter
s. Hood '` 50. Eleanor J. Martin
orn 51 . Edwin Gunnemann
Smith 52. Mary Kronman
Louis Jalouneix 53. Clarence and Elizabeth Beck
-ke 54. Jane Woolley
,on 55. Mr. and Mrs. Edward L. Kennedy
56. Bert Holloway
Gerda Sommer 57. Mrs. James Frank
e 58. C.A. Walther
ion 59. Marjorie Powers
-s. Harold Kress 60. W. and 0. Guilford
luarist 61 . John C. Dodd
62. Mr. and Mrs. E.R. Hoech
At 63. Juliet Brown Robinson
rns 64. Mrs. Sid Solomon
nlheim 65. Paul Ware
Diaz, Jr. 66. W.T. Triplett r
rine Welcome 67. Evelyn F. Romberg
68. Mr. & Mrs. Robert Boysen
Chuck 69. A.J. Eyman
the 70. Barbara Kerrigan
ward 71 . Jacqueline Syphers
e E. Hagenow 72. Mrs. Joe Wasserman
Baumgardner 73. Kay Craig
.alesi 74. Michael Rembis
lichley 75. Arnold Schorzman
,dersen 76. Anna Hunger
77. William Lo
pith 78. Six with no names
APPENDIX B
CITIZENS RESPONDING TO CITY'S REQUEST
FOR COMMENTS ON GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
1 . Mr. and Mrs. Robert Padvano 40. Lloyd Waaga
2. Robert Balman 41 . Jerold Segall
3. Clyde L. Ernest 42. Guy Rorive
4. F.X. McDonald, Jr. 43. Mr. Leonard J. Lucier
5. B.K. Thorpe 44. Richard Stewart
6. Claire Hafner 45. J.R. Noble
7. Larry Elder 46. W. Jack Lane
8. Prank Little 47. Robert Fithian
9. Miriam Carver 48. Fay Bowie
10. ;John Kempf 49. K.G. Stelter
11 . ''Mr. and Mrs. Hood 50. Eleanor J. Martin
12. Rudd Hackborn 51 . Edwin Gunnemann
13. Raymond T. Smith 52. Mary Kronman
14. E Mrs. Jean-Louis Jalouneix 53. Clarence and Elizabeth Beck
15.' Daryl Bjerke 54. Jane Woolley
16. Ruth Bronson 55. Mr. and Mrs. Edward L. Kennedy
17. E. Eckcost 56. Bert Holloway
18. Harry and Gerda Sommer 57. Mrs. James Frank
19. Paul Little 58. C.A. Walther
20. Don Anderson 59. Marjorie Powers
21 . Mr. and Mrs. Harold Kress 60. W. and 0. Guilford
22. Vicki Marquarist 61 . John C. Dodd
23. E. Hopkins 62. Mr. and Mrs. E.R. Hoech
24. Jack Barnett 63. Juliet Brown Robinson
25. Ann Maiterns 64. Mrs. Sid Solomon
26. Wilson Huhlheim 65. Paul Ware
27. Marcelino Diaz, Jr. 66. W.T. Triplett
28. Mrs. Almarine Welcome 67. Evelyn F. Romberg
29. M. Wilhelm 68. Mr. & Mrs. Robert Boysen
30. Mrs. M. D. Chuck 69. A.J. Eyman
31 . Irene Gentile 70. Barbara Kerrigan
32. Calvin Howard 71 . Jacqueline Syphers
33. Mr. Leslie E. Hagenow 72. Mrs. Joe Wasserman
34. Vernon L. Baumgardner 73. Kay Craig I
35. Joseph Scaj-esi 74. Michael Rembis'
36. Morris .Reichley 75. Arnold Schorzman
37. Harold Pedersen 76. Anna Hunger
38. E. Luce 77. William Lo
39. Irving Smith 78. Six with no names
fir✓
APPENDIX C
LETTERS RECEIVED FROM PUBLIC AGENCIES
T�
4. P. C. Box 2185 • Palm Springs, CA • (714) 323-0122
December 17, 1980
Mr. John Dos Santos
Assistant Planner
City of Palm Desert
45-275 Prickly Pear Lane
Palm Desert, California 92260
l Dear Mr. Dos Santos:
Thank you for providing SunLine Transit Agency with the opportunity to
review the Draft General Plan Update and Related Draft EIR. The
following comments are offered:
On pages III B 24 and IV B 30 mention is made of i potent al future
local bus service; however, the roadway cross sections shown in
figure 1 do not provide for bus turnouts. If the development described
in the plan occurred, there would be a potential for fixed-route transit
service on several secondary roadways and major thoroughfares. Where
such service is desired, provision should be made for a bus stop lane
no smaller than 10 feet wide and 80 feet long. Normally, these should
be located as near as possible to intersections, preferably on the
far side (directly after passing through the intersection). In most
non-commercial areas, it would not be necessary to have stops at
every block.
On page III B 21 , "Internal Design Guidelines for Commercial Develop-
ment," mention should be made of the need to provide pedestrian access
from bus stop locations or potential bus stop locations to the commercial
structures. Pedestrian paths interconnecting parcels are desirable
for the same reasons that traffic aisles are desirable.
The Draft Environmental Impact Reports do not address the potential for
transit to mitigate the potential traffic, energy, and air quality
impacts.' The EIRs do not address any significant aspect of public
transit except the financial impact of current services if annexation
occurs.
Sincerely,
Steven Brown
Transit Planner
I l
COUNTY. .Y,{-� OFFICE OF ROAD COMMISSIONER & COUNTY SURVEYOR
RIVERSIDE—,.1, DESERTOMCE
A E.NEWCOMB ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE BLDG..ROOM 313
46-209 OASIS STREET
ROAD COMMISSIONER&COUNTY SURVEYOR INDIO.CALIFORNIA 92201
TELEPHONE: (714) 342.8267
December 15, 1980
n, ( ,L.4
Mr. John Dos Santos
Assistant Planner C b 1980
City of Palm Desert
45-275 Prickly Pear Lane
Palm Desert, CA 92260 Ec4v�•���oF^f,r,�sn UesEr�7
cal _
r —
Re: Case No. GPA 01-80
Draft General Plan Update and
Related Draft Environmental Reports
Dear Mr. Dos Santos:
Thank you for the opportunity to review your. G P Update. We would
recommend only that 36th Avenue be changed to Arterial status, providing
continuity with the County G P.
Very truly yours,
A. E. NEWCOMB, ROAD COMMISSIONER
AND COUNTY SURVEYOR
By j f� K.-
Warren R. Stallard
WRS/tf Area Road Operations Supervisor
STATE OF CALIFORNIA • THE RESOURCES AGENCY EDMUND G. BROWN JR..GOVERNOR
CALIFORNIA REGIONAL WATER QUALITY CONTROL BOARD
COLORADO RIVER BASIN • REGION 7 .�
�r
73-271 HIGHWAY 111, SUITE 21
PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA92260
Phone: (714) 346-7491
December 18, 1980
DEC 19 1980
City of Palm Desert
45-275 Prickly Pear Lane EiWIPONMENTAL SERVICES
Palm Desert, CA 92260 CITY OF PALM DESERT
Subject: Comments on the Draft General Plan Update, the related
Draft Environmental Impact Reports on the Update and. the
North Sphere of Influence for the City of Palm Desp-rt
(GPA 01-80).
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the subject draft plan.
We do not have any comments at this time. - - - --
JACKi�ALUJA
Senio 14RC Engineer
JS/cksl
i�` City Hall
Palm Desert,Ca.92260
Mailing Address: Box 77
Palm Desert,Ca.92260
G�"+Y Decertb e2 22, 1980
<,t % y r l cd m "ea t
i De•.-c�:tend of 6nviw=eA&t Se2v,i.ce d
4'S 275 'eat Lane
%' -z D"cl t, Ca, 92260
Deem G'v:in:
Pay.inn izead .-Lh.e AcLI,4 of Ae Ceneaaj N-an �ci1it die �i t�1 01 il
i a�'rt De.�errt,` die ><i'i�tvtiical EIIorLje1zvaZ&)n10-oea
Dentuvc l v� feezeco'-' neda�i.vn s t�vz �iLe Soace/ ,'';eclteatiOn
The-de n.ec twzr naat vnd arse b"eW on the h i ytviu c
'WZC4e,,,vatt vn � e Line. yet forz 4A. by the Rc,&'.d �vveruw2 i,j (�1r 4i..ce -
of i'IwvL na. an '. �e deaz a.� Lw U a j`coaverwa&cvn.� uvo A v �,ccerr.� v
rce San FlLarzCi sco v� .ice v! 4Ae AlaUonat %nun �oa Pi d.& c 14eje2-
vat,i.vn.
;le wu, .deep to amend pan.auvw,r;A 4, zecx c vn VA-20 fv include
Ae follvt.:inr .i.dea4
led- 4� ct 6,L4 time Zf ,cam xe,-w.6uAe �v
narie Iz c l clOn.ic �i,te.� tui t�Lvccz comp ern v a
r
coazoze"zen.,j.ive du,%ver , fl (.ice v im x��.zant r
10,UOw coni-'mq erzt
u:-vn Yhe RiveA/,i,de CvunY-u• jutvelt rww cii
ozveirea.�. TILL& dw vetz uu_ll. pito`vide A.0 .i.n-
veritv,ur v l Aiz.tva i.c and cu l&ma. n.ewu�zce4
v Sze I'atm 0"elzt an.ea.
-- ),�e leeL 'Lat titre e.Lemer:,<' .�^vc�ld 'nandc to zfze
.c,<r cvveAnmerk 4,o ado^ as o,-2 nan.ce O
develop tie mecAanLcj br, Jz,LcA ki t&,zic aruZ
cmttunaL 1z.ejvuzce-4 mcuc �e .t_derzu!,i..ed az"erzved
pvw.tecicd and ert Lencecl. !Ge uzLU' be c Zcd ;6v vrrvvi,de
Sze (�t�c (ounci_C uti���i model oAcLnaa and/or.
;�O an / r,,e dearzc L n.ecuaed ;of fLe c1zea;i.orz o!
an olzdinance, and ajzLj,� .in cAu,. vtizefL 2ecyez.,-'ed,utar,
-- Since -°vrz. Wle 9A"eAvc z iwa
v� h i.,.ztv,zi.c ze jou"zced ,e4,44`u4Wt ZAe cv' , M'z' ,f, tue
�ee� i un x�2tart t to deve-L,o cvm.,t.e%Len jive
.io acquaint #die .oub i.c cui i'; .ice hea i aaae
aezou/Lced. Aj the olzd-in.ance commonlu awvide.6
a an advi.av�z,u bvartd, curd a.4 Ae Ci a' Cvuncirl ham
a,Lz.earlu aq,.-3o named aA r1 c..u�oa�.ca l Cvrr� w.an, A iA
ur�� die the pvwpe z. place v .Lei c i.�ati.�.e Z2c f
commi-u'Lon.
' e iwu,1d .1.i';e zv .geeJi e Cctr. v 1 a 1rzJe.�elrt have a cvrz: aehen-
,yc:ve and aLL ',Led iwo i.c, on h,i.42oli e ;ozejeLvatwn beloae .t.;6 X"i too
rcw_tt begin ucith ;&e auAo&U oil z-.e Ceaew l
lle uv uL-1 a.o a Leci.atie b eZ nv� .Led o j' die datie v I the next
Public Aec./ ina ,6v ,that one v�our, aepze.mn ati.ve.j cotZL be oae deny.
i
Anne Cairpen t Pae.diden f
11.i.j;6oai ca CO Zion
Late of Tafif=ia
GOVERNOR'S OFFICE
OFFICE OF PLANNING AND RESEARCH
1400 TENTH STREET
SACRAMENTO 95814
EDMUND G. BROWN JR.
GOVERNOR
January 12, 1981
i
i
John Dos Santos
Assistant Planner
City of Palm Desert
j 45-275 Prickly Pear Lane
Palm Desert, CA 92260
RE: SCII #80073012
' General Plan Update & North Sphere of InfluenFe, DR-IR
I
j Dear Mr. Dos Santos:
The State Clearinghouse submitted the above listed environmental
! document to selected state agencies for review. The review is -
I
complete and none of the state agencies have comments .
I
This letter verifies your compliance with the environmental review
requirements of the State Clearinghouse pursuant to the California
Environmental Quality Act. Where applicable, however, this should
not be construed as a waiver of any jurisdictional authority or
title interests of the State of California.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Sincerely,
Stephe illiamson
State leari nghouse
CuLdid.Qa Vaffq R and Pali 'Dio id
POST OFFICE DRAWER YYY
46-350 SOUTH JACKSON STREET INDIO, CALIFORNIA 92201
November 25, 1980
Mr. Carlos Ortega, Acting Director
Environmental Services
45-275 Prickly Pear Lane
Palm Desert, California
Dear Mr. Ortega:
With regard to comments on your general plan update.
1. I question the concept of a collector street on the west side
of the Palm Valley Storm Channel , especially if it is to be
constructed between our tennis courts and the channel . There
is not adequate space unless the tennis courts were moved.
This does not seem realistic in that we made a 25 year oper-
ation and maintenance committment when we utilized State funds
for their construction.
2. The extent of our Palm Desert Community Center Park is almost
forty (40) acres. None of the maps in your plan delineate the
site as being this extensive. Will this failure to recognize
the boundary of our property possibly inhibit future develop-
ment (Of the park) or conflict with the ajacent low density
housing designation?
Respectfully,
Gary D. oty
Superintendent
id
Tel.347-3485
rw
414 U=Eifta
r�+oli
Southern California Edison Company
POST OFFICE BOX 203
PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA 92261 -
KERMIT MARTIN December 11, 1980
AREA MANAGER
Mr. Ramon Diaz �_ .� a(q��-',�+.�
Director of Environmental Services:. ��4p
C. IJJ
City of Palm Desert
45275 Prickley Pear
Palm Desert, California 92260
Subject: Proposed General Plan
City of Palm Desert
The Southern California Edison Company has reviewed the
drafts of the subject proposed general plan and we appreciate the opportunity
to offer the following comments and suggestions:
Noise Element - Page VC23, Section VII
I
Because of the nature of work performed by public works
i
organizations and public utilities, it is necessary to be exempt from the
limitations usually found in noise elements and/or noise control ordinances,
jIt is suggested, therefore, that the following clause be added to Page VC23
Section VII of the draft noise element and also incorporated into any
subsequent proposed noise control ordinance or regulation:
I
i "However, the provisions of this section shall not preclude
the construction, operation, maintenance and repairs of equipment, apparatus,
or facilities of park and recreation departments, public work projects, or
essential public services and facilities, including those of public utilities
subject to the regulatory jurisdiction of the California Public Utilities
Commission. "
Seismic Safety - Page VD2, Section I, Paragraph 4
Add: After the first sentence of the last paragraph . . . "The
Technical Report is accepted by the City of Palm Desert
but is not adopted as part of this Element. The design criteria
and seismic response criteria presented in the Technical
Report are one of several possible interpretations. It will
- 2 -
be necessary to update the Technical Report as new or more
accurate information becomes available.
Add: Between paragraph 3 and 4 . . . " The inclusion of
public utilities in these documents is not intended to put
the City in the position of being an additional approving
or monitoring agency for the utilities. It is recognized
that the California Energy and Public Utilities Commissions
have pre-empted local jurisdiction over the regulation of
public utilities. However, both Commissions are required
to seek local input to their approval of construction and
operating procedures for public utilities. Inclusion of public
utilities in this document is intended to provide that comment.
The Technical Report is only one of several possible inter-
pretations of the design criteria and seismic response criteria` As more accurate
information is obtained this report will need to be updated.
Seismic Safety - Page VD12, Paragraph 1
A definition of the terms "normal" and "critical" should be
contained in this section in order to refine these categories.
A third classification, "essential facilities", should be
included to cover those users whose collapse could impair the community's
ability to recover from a natural disaster to local individual facilities, but
would be a temporary disruption since delivery systems as a whole can continue
supplying essential services such as power and communications systems.
Seismic Safety - Page VD 13, Figure 3
Delete "electrical substations" from this exhibit. The
exhibit titled "Taxonomy of Critical Facilities" should not include electrical
substations in this category. In the event of a major disaster, some electric
power supplies could be interrupted, hindering relief efforts. However, the
use of secondary sources of power such as on-site generator for essential
services could be examined for use in emergencies as may be required in
the implementation section.
Without a precise and/or specific meaning to the word
"critical, " electrical substation facilities should not be included in this
classification. Substations are an "essential" facility to the community,
but not necessarily "critical. "
Seismic Safety - Page VD22, Paragraph 1 , No 5
Under implementation policies, change item No. 5 to read
- 3 -
"public utility facilities. "
In the event of any major disaster, all "public utilities"
would be affected. Not just electrical and water.
It is recommended that the City of Palm Desert refer to
the Riverside County Seismic Safety and Safety General Plan Elements in
the area of risk determination. This will assist in compiling a more
definitive preception into classification of facilities. It would also synchronize
the Seismic Safety Elements between the two governmental agencies responsible
for the same contiguous land area uses.
The Edison Company desires to cooperate with the City of
Palm Desert in developing a well designed General Plan. We hope the
above comments and suggestions will assist the City in the preparation of
the final document. r
Thank you for your consideration in this matter. /If you re-
quire further information, please contact me at 324-4691 .
ermit Martin.
Area Manager
KOM:j
1-29-81
RESPONSE TO COMMENTS
Communication from SunLine Transit Agency dated 12-17-81
Comment : DEIR does not address the potential for transit
to mitigate the potential traffic energy and
air quality impacts .
Response : In a general nature the DEIR addresses the
above subject by:
1 ) Supporting the goals and objectives of the
Transportation/Circulation Element which
specifically relates to transit as follows :
--Develop •an efficient , balanced multi-
model transportation system designed to
provide for the movement of people ,
goods , and services meeting the existing
and future needs of Palm Desert .
--Encourage the development of transporta-
tion facilities for a variety of trans--
portation modes .
--Explore potentials for implementation of
supplementary intra-city public transit
systems including a tramway for the core
area .
--Continue to cooperate with adjacent
jurisdictions , the Coachella Valley
Associate of Governments and the SunLine
Transit to- develop an effective valley-
wide public transit system- to serve the
entire valley. (pages 50-51 )
2 ) Encourage less energy use and consequently
reduce the rate at which emission are
produced by . . . . use of mass transit system
improvement . . . ( page 62) .
3.) Support the Land Use Element as follows :
Generally speaking , commercial and public
uses ( primarily parks ) have been proposed
within close proximity of residential
development and would promote fewer vehicu-
lar miles driven . The concentration of
commercial along Hwy 111 is energy effi-
cient for the passing motorist , it does
r however , encourage intra-city trips . The
proposed intra-city public transit would
improve this condition . . . ( pages 91-92)
In addition to the above , the following discussion is
added to page 79 .
A land use plan will be coordinated with a transportation
plan ( including road network and transit system) resulting
in maximizing the efficiency of the transportation system
and ,-"-at the same time , minimizing the adverse influence on
the environment for example , air pollution . An important
goal of a transportation plan is to minimize the amount of
travel required within the region and yet provide an
acceptable level of service . To the extent that City of
! Palm Desert implements the goals and objectives cited
{ earlier in this response , the transportation system, and
particularly the transit program can reduce potential
impacts to traffic energy and air quality. Xn example of
this relates to air pollution . Transportation-related
pollution has accounted for an average of 60 perceryt of
the tot-&l pollutants in the atmosphere for the major
metropolitan areas in the United States . Of this 60 per-
cent , the private automobile contributed from 90 to 95
percent of the air pollution . The private vehicle also
accounts for roughly one-half of the air pollution in the
major metropolitan areas within the United States . As the
use of the private vehicle is reduced and other more effi -
cient modes are used , the impact of transportation to air
quality will be improved .
Source : Transportation and Traffic Engineering Handbook ,
John E .. Baerwald Editor , 1976 .
*4W
a
Citizens Street Beautification Advisory Committee
Y
February 25, 1981
I41r. Ramon Diaz,
Director of Enviromental Services
Palm Desert City Hall
IPalm Desert, Cal.
Dear 'L%;r. Diaz:
This is to advise that the City of Palm Desert Beautification
Advisory Committee at the reguler meeting on Feb. 3, 1981
1 unanimously approved a motion designating Avenue 42, Avenue
44, Hovley Lane and Monterey Road as Scenic Highways.
In reviewing this matter with your staff we find that in the
General Plan of the City under the section "Urban Designs the
above thoroughfares have been established as "Scenic Highway"
Corridors--. We heartly endorse this designation and look
forward to the final approval by the City Council.
hairman
DPU DESERT PEOPLES UNITE
D
Keeping Our Desert The Way You Like it
POST OFFICE BOX 2648. PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA 92263
OFFICERS March 12, 1981
JOHNSON
Chairman TO: Members of the Palm Desert City Council , Planning Commission,
RIISSJOHNSTON and Staff
Proosidpnl
JACKSON GRAHAM E1rPr;11/IVP VIPP-OfPilr/Pnl RE: Palm Desert General Plan Update
FRANK BARTON
VIr:P-PfPilr/Pnl
ARTHI iR H.MOTLEY In a broad sense Desert Peoples United agrees with most of the elements
VMP-OrovdPnl
LILY IN CRAVES in the Palm Desert General Plan Update. There are two areas in which
SPr:rPlary we feel not enough consideration to the effect of doubling population
DAISY WILBERT in the next 18 years is given' -- water availability and traffic.
Troasuror
It would seem short-sighted not to recognize that our ,.underground
water basin needs constant recharge and is not inexhaustible. The
water table, especially in the north end of the valley has been
dropping for years, showing up there first because the flow is down
valley.
DIRECTORS
Colorado River water, now used for recharging, will be less and less
Wit I RYRNE
FRANKRAYNE available to us as Arizona and other upstream entitlements are drawn
,14(;K SON f"i N GRAHAM down before the water gets to us. Northern California water via the
Lit YIN GRAVES hotly-contested Peripheral Canal is a long way away, especially the
$�AIAI IRI(:F HARRIS means of extending it to the Coachella Valle y.
R;IRFRT F .JOHNSON
AtISS.IOHNSTON In the meantime developers are trying to make a valley out of
WIIIJAM McGIELLAN I' y g green y
NFLSONMIILS a desert with golf courses, artificial lakes, and green planting.
ARTHI IR H MOTLEY
JAMFSO'RRIEN It would seem the General Plan Update should recognize the need for
AnQIAN ROSFN water conservation now instead of when the eventual crisis occurs.
rniTN,^,PIT7FR It is not too much to ask for periodic c scientific anal GFORGF SWFrT p analyses from our
•HFRRFRT F TOOR Water Agency to address this problem as the area grows -- an item
APTI41IRI1NDFRWOOD which should be on the CVAG MEA but is not. Until then, developments
DAISY WILBERT requiring heavy uses of water should be revised to require the use
of desert planting, drip irrigation, reduced numbers of golf courses,
•t`.I.at Pro-g1dent swimming pool covers, and other established water conservation
practices. In line with this plan should also be required transfer
and planting of date palms to help maintain desert feeling.
ADVISORY BOARD About traffic, we can only say that as long as Highway 111 remains
the main thoroughfare, traffic congestion will only get worse.
IFOAT"ANS 711KE KOSSLVN Widening of connecting streets is no solution.
ED McCOLIBREY
JOHNRYAN Very truly yours,
e�F YkIOI IQ OPPFNHFIMER
At VJFINFRT
')AVID RICHMAN
JFRRY METZ
/'NIIIPMICHALOVE Russ Johnston
President
Nwe
45-275 PRICKLY PEAR LANE, PALM DESERT,CALIFORNIA 92260
TELEPHONE (714) 346-0611
CITY OF PALM DESERT
LEGAL NOTICE
CONSIDERATION OF PROPOSED PALM DESERT
GENERAL PLAN UPDATE AND RELATED
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORTS FOR PALM
DESERT PLANNING AREA.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Public Hearing will be held before the Palm Desert
Planning Commission to consider a conprehensive update to adopted General Plan,
and approval of related Environmental Impact Reports on said General Plan update
and North Sphere of Influence, which covers approximately 54.4 square miles,
bounded by Interstate 10 on the north, the San Bernardino National Forest on the
South, Indian Wells Planning area on the east, and Rancho Mirage Planning area
on the west.
SAID Public Hearing will be held on February 3, 1981 , at 7:00 p.m. in the Council
Chambers in the Palm Desert City Hall , 45-275 Prickly Pear Lane, Palm Desert,
California, at which time and place all interested persons are invited to attend
and be heard.
RAMON A. DIAZ, Secretary
Palm Desert Planning
Commission
PUBLISH: Palm Desert Post
January 22, 1981
i 45-275 07 'Y PEAR LANE, PALM DESERT,CAUFORNIP, Q2260
TELEPHONE (714) 346-0611
February 19, 1981
CITY OF PALM DESERT
LEGAL NOTICE
CONSIDERATION OF PROPOSED PALM DESERT GENERAL PLAN
UPDATE AND RELATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORTS FOR
PALM DESERT PLANNING AREA.
CASE NO GPA 01-80.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Public Hearing will be held before the
Palm Desert City Council to consider a comprehensive update to adopted
General Plan, and approval of related Environmental Impact Reports on
said General Plan Update and North Sphere of Influence, which covers
i approximately 54.4 square miles, bounded by Interstate 10 on the north,
the San Bernardino National Forest on the south, Indian Wells Planning
Area on the east and Rancho Mirage Planning Area on the west.
i
I
fi
I
I
a
SAID Public Hearing will be held on March 12, 1981 , at 7:00 p.m.
in the Council Chambers in the Palm Desert City Hall , 45-275 Prickly Pear
Lane, Palm Desert, California, at which time and place all interested
persons are invited to attend and be heard.
I
SHEILA R. GILLIGAN, City Clerk
City of Palm Desert, California
PUBLISH: Palm Desert Post
February 26, 1981
i -
1
i
m y
b
CITY OF PALM DESERT A �
r
L'r o z
m
^' s
r
a
C
0
„ v
N
N
O!
O
fD O
N O
C+
O ct
S X fD
O (D
c+ W
cn N(A.)O
'Q l0-5
5
�. N
N V)
� sv
N � _
N f1
-A
O C
fD ".
w
$yY;
y 45-275 PRICKLY PEAR LANE, PALM DESERT,CALIFORNIA 92260
TELEPHONE (714) 346-0611
NOTICE OF INTENT TO PREPARE A
DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Project: General Plan Update/North Sphere Annexation
Sponser: City of Palm Desert
The City is preparing to select a consultant to complete a draft environ-
mental impact report on a proposed General Plan Update, and consideration
for ultimate annexation of the North Sphere Area.
In order to facilitate the draft EIR process, the City is interested in
comments from your area of expertise (or opinion) of the important subjects
which should be examined in a draft EIR. More particularly, the City is
interested in the probable impacts to the natural environment, to social
and economic conditions, and on public resources. Your comments or rec-
ommendations should be received by this office at your earliest convenience
but no later than 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 25, 1980, in order to be
included in the preliminary scoping of the draft report. Comment -may be
transmitted either by letter or by telephone; the contact person is Mr.
Murrel Crump, Principal Planner.
Very truly yours,
PAUL A. WILLIAMS, AICP
Director of Environmental Services
1
PROOF OF P 18LTCATTON
(2010 , 2015.5 GCP)
PROOF OF PU'1LTCATTON OF
GEN. PLV4
T am a citizen of the United
States and a resident of the
County aforesaid ; I am over the
age of eighteen years# and not 37]
a party to or interested in the I CFTY� �- NOT
above entitled ;utter. T am the of
principal clerk of the printer
of PALM DESERT POST, a neApaper of �►�
general circulations printed y�
and published daily in the in*
city of riversides County of
Ve
Riverside, and which newspaper �
has been adjudged a newspaper of
general circulation by the
Superior Court of the County of ��..
Riverside, State of Lalifornia,
under date of October 59 1964#
Case number 83658; that the
notice# of which the annexed is ,^
a printed copy# has been published
in each regular and entire issue
of said newspaper and .not in any
supplement thereof on the following
dates • to-wit:
11127 #1980 ,.
I Certify (or declare) under
penalty of perjury that the
foregoing .is true and correct.
Dated November 27, 1980
at Riverside# California
CITY OF PALM DESERT V
Citizens Street Beautification Advisory Committee
February 25, 1981
Mr. Ramon Diaz,
Director of Enviromental Services
Palm Desert City Hall
Palm Desert , Cal.
Dear Mr. Diaz :
This is to advise that the City of Palm Desert Beautification
Advisory Committee at the reguler meeting on Feb. 3, 1981
unanimously approved a motion designating Avenue 42, Avenue
44, Hovley Lane and Monterey Road as Scenic Highways.
In reviewing this matter with your staff we find that in the
General Plan of the City under the section "Urban Design" the
above thoroughfares have been established as "Scenic Highway"
Corridors. We heartly endorse this designation and look
forward to the final approval by the City Council.
Chairman
1 CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
TO: Planning Commission
REPORT ON: Environmental Impact Report and General Plan for the
City of Palm Desert
CASE NO: GPA 01-80
DATE: February 3, 1981
I. PURPOSE
This report summarizes the Draft Environmental Impact Reports (DEIR) on the
General Plan Update and North Sphere of Influence Area and responds to
comments, received from the public, on the documents. A summary of the
General Plan Update was provided to the Commission prior to the public study
session of December 11, 1980, and, therefore, is not part of this staff
report.
It will be the Commission's responsibility to: read the draft documents,
which were delivered to Commissioners last November, as well as the summary
of comments and response to comments, and to use the information in your
decision-making process. The draft document, public comments and responses
thereto, as well as Commissioner's comments, will then be forwarded along
with the General Plan to the City Council for final adoption.
II. BACKGROUND
By State Law, the preparation and adoption of a General Plan (Government Code
Section 6500 et. seq. ) and accompanying Environmental Impact Reports (Public
Resources Code Section 2100 et. seq. ) is a responsibility assigned to all
municipalities in California. The Draft General Plan Update was completed by
the Department of Environmental Services while the Draft Environmental Impact
Reports were completed by the Planning Center under the direction of the
Department.
Two EIRs were completed for the General Plan Update--one covering the entire
planning area and one covering the North Sphere area. Both areas are defined
in the applicable EIR. A separate EIR for the North Sphere was completed
since future annexations to the City will occur in this area and the EIR could
expedite annexation and planning of the area.
As soon as the Draft EIRs were received, a Notice of Completion was sent to
the State Clearinghouse in Sacramento and to the Regional Clearinghouse in
Los Angeles indicating that the City was preparing to circulate the General
Plan/EIR documents to public agencies for their review and comments. Over
fifty (50) agencies, organizations and individuals received the document; a
list of those receiving the document is provided in Appendix A. Additionally,
the City sent a summary of the General Plan to every resident of Palm Desert;
a list of those residents responding to our request for comments is provided
in Appendix B. A discussion of comments received appears later in the report.
III. SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORTS
The early sections of the reports outline the planning area and describe the
primary features of the physical environment. Various sections of the
General Plan provide information on topography, geography, soils, seismic
and other geologic hazards, flooding, vegetation, and wildlife. This is
supplemented with discussions on the climate, air quality, hydrology, and
mineral resources found in the area. The existing man-made physical
environment is dealt with in detail in the General Plan Elements on population
and economics, housing conditions, circulation systems, and public facilities.
-1-
err✓ �''
EIR AND GP STAFF REPORT
February 3, 1981
III. SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORTS (cont. )
Section III describes how the implementation of the General Plan would affect
the environment and what has been proposed to minimize negative impacts. In
some areas the Planning Center has recommended changes to the General Plan;
these are indicated. Findings of the EIRs are summarized below:
- Although urbanization of the area will effect the topography and visual
climate of the general area the effects should be minimized by the
objectives and policies of the General Plan;
- Exposure to earthquake, blowsand, and flood hazard areas can be minimized
through the proper use of zoning ordinances, building codes and other
available development controls;
- Loss of portions of existing species of both native plant and animal
habitats due to development of the valley floor is minimized by provisions
in the General Plan, which protect all rare and endangered species in the
planning area;
- Provisions for the conservation of unique natural areas in the Conserva-
tion/Open Space/Recreation Element, the preservation of scenic vistas in
the Urban Design/Scenic Highway Element, the increased acquisition of
public parks, the protection by the Bureau of Land Management, State Game
Refuge and Boyd Deep Canyon Research Area all serve to offset the loss of
existing open space as vacant land is developed;
- As development occurs air quality is expected to decline, primarily as a
result of the increased number and distance of auto trips. Although
emission control standards are not in local hands, implementation policies
in the Land Use, Transportation/Circulation and Urban Design/Scenic
Highway Elements could reduce the amount of pollutants by encouraging
cluster rather than sprawl development, thus enabling use of circulation
systems other than the private auto;
- Developmental and architectural controls should greatly improve the
aesthetic quality of the planning area;
- The General Plan will require an extensive increase in new urban infra-
structure and public facility needs at complete development. Funds for
these improvements can be generated by a variety of revenue sources and
without placing a burdensome tax load on the existing residents;
- There is a need to provide additional traffic capacity from the west
into the City now. Transportation will be affected by the Transportation/
Circulation Element which contains recommendations for improving existing
modes of travel and for the creation of alternative systems;
- Noise impacts will be temporary due to construction activities and long
range due to increased circulation and resulting traffic. Mitigating
measures have been recommended in the Noise Element;
- Impacts to public services, facilities and utilities could be minimized
through the implementation of the General Plan; and,
- Greater cooperation with the Cities of Rancho Mirage and Indian Wells
and with Riverside County could assure that the area abutting the
communities would compliment each other.
One purpose of the General Plan program is to balance man's activity with
environmental considerations. Section IV of the DEIR lists those adverse
environmental impacts which cannot be avoided. These include:
-2-
EIR AND GP STAFF REPORT
February 3, 1981
III. SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORTS (cont. )
- Air emissions from mobile and stationary sources from the existing City
and from future growth cannot be totally eliminated;
- The generation of solid wastes in significant amounts probably cannot
be avoided in the foreseeable future. Recycling, composting and re-use
of potential waste products will probably have only a small impact on
the total solid waste generation problem. Land will have to continue
to be committed to landfill sites as a result of this impact. However,
it should be noted that this is a statewide problem and whether the
growth occurs in the Palm Desert area or elsewhere the problems associated
with waste disposal will be there.
- Although moving sensitive land uses away from noise impact areas is the
only workable mitigation measure, this technique does not remove the
noise source itself.
- Wastewater generation is unavoidable and requires the proposed reclamation
program which in turn uses water and energy.
- Floods and earthquakes are unavoidable and can do serious damage if an
event occurs which is greater than planned for.
- Water consumption will increase as growth continues.
- As growth progresses into undeveloped areas there will be removal of flora
and fauna, typical of the desert, although considerable acreage has been
preserved in the southern sphere to assure that the desert environment is
not totally lost.
- There will be an increased amount of runoff due to the covering of portions
of the ground with impermeable materials, although this impact should not
affect any local or downstream systems.
- There will be an increased demand for utilities and public services and
will require the extension of natural gas lines, electrical lines,
telephone services, water and sewer services, as well as sheriff, fire
and school services.
There are two additional unavoidable impacts which should be mentioned and
eventually included in any final EIR. These include:
- Humidity levels will rise as landscaping associated with increased develop-
ment becomes more pronounced; and,
- Views of the night sky will be greatly reduced.
Alternatives to the General Plan Update were considered in the DEIR. In
addition to the 1975 General Plan and the Cove Community General Plan
(Riverside County) the Planning Center developed an alternative land use plan
for the northern most portion of the planning area. The Department proposed
a third alternative which was described on December 11, 1980.
The balance between short-term and long-term effects of the General Plan is
also discussed. In the short-term, impacts will be associated with construc-
tion activities. The plan has provided direction to control such effects.
In the long-term, the General Plan has provided a balanced approach that
controls short-term effects by enhancing and preserving valuable resources
while allowing growth of a balanced community.
Finally, the EIRs summarizes the irreversible or irretrievable environmental
changes. For this project, a further commitment of energy resources and
urbanization and urban expansion are viewed as the major irreversible changes.
-3-
Ifto
EIR AND GP STAFF REPORT
February 3, 1981
IV. COMMENTS RECEIVED
A. Public Agencies: Six public agencies provided comments regarding the
General Plan Update and Environmental Impact Reports. The six agencies
were: SunLine Transit Agency, Office of Road Commissioner and County
Surveyor, Regional Water Quality Control Board, Historical Society of
Palm Desert, Coachella Valley Recreation and Park District, Southern
California Edison and Office of Planning and Research. Comments and
Department responses from each agency are provided below. A copy of
each letter is found in Appendix C.
1. SunLine Transit:
Comment: On pages III B 24 and IV B 30 mention is made of potential
future local bus service; however, the roadway cross sections shown
in figure 1 do not provide for bus turnouts. If the development
described in the plan occurred, there would be a potential for fixed-
route transit service on several secondary roadways and major
thoroughfares. Where such service is desired, provision should
be made for a bus stop lane no smaller than 10 feet wide and 80 feet
long. Normally, these should be located as near as possible to inter-
sections, preferably on the far side (directly after passing through
the intersection) . In most non-commercial areas, it would not be
necessary to have stops at every block.
Response: Although the roadway cross sections shown in figure 1 of
The Transportation/Circulation Element do not provide for bus turn-
outs their construction as a requirement of street development is
an implementation policy of the element. In the future SunLine
will receive request for comments on project proposals located on
potential fixed line bus routes to facilitate the implementation
of this policy.
Comment: On page III B 21, "Internal Design Guidelines for
Commercial Development," mention should be made of the need to
provide pedestrian access from bus stop locations or potential bus
stop locations to the commercial structures. Pedestrian paths inter-
connecting parcels are desirable for the same reasons that traffic
aisles are desirable.
Response: The intent of Guideline 2 (Internal Guidelines for
Commercial Development) on page III B 21 is to take the afore-
mentioned concerns into account.
Comment: The Draft Environmental Impact Reports do not address the
potential for transit to mitigate the potential traffic, energy,
and air quality impacts. The EIRs do not address any significant
aspect of public transit except the financial impact of current
services if annexation occurs.
Response: The Planning Center is working on a response.
2. Office of Road Commissioner and County Surveyor:
Comment: We would recommend only that 36th Avenue be changed to
Arterial status, providing continuity with the County G P.
Response: 36th Avenue is changed to Arterial status.
3. California Regional Water Quality Control Board:
Comment: Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the subject
draft plan. We do not have any comments at this time.
Response: No comment necessary.
-4-
EIR AND GP STAFF REPORT
February 3, 1981
IV. COMMENTS RECEIVED (cont. )
4. Historical Society of Palm Desert:
Comment: We feel that at this time it is premature to name historic
sites without completion of a comprehensive survey. A list of important
sites and districts will follow contingent upon the Riverside County
survey now in progress. This survey will provide full inventory of
historic and cultural resources of the Palm Desert area.
Response: As stated on page VA 21 the "list indicates possible sites
for historic preservation" (emphasis added). The list is not intended
to be an exhaustive list of historic sites.
Comment: We feel that the element should mandate the City government
to adopt an ordinance to develop the mechanics by which historic and
cultural resources may be identified, preserved, protected and enhanced.
We will be glad to provide the City Council with model ordinances, and/or
to do any research required for the creation of an ordinance, and assist
in any other requested way.
Response: The preservation of public and private buildings which are of
local historical or cultural importance is encouraged as a policy of the
Conservation, Open Space, Recreation Element. In order to strengthen
this policy the following is recommended to be added to the first policy
on page VA 32: "The City should consider the adoption of an ordinance
to develop the mechanics by which historic and cultural resources may
be identified, preserved, protected and enhanced if said ordinance is
deemed necessary upon completion of a comprehensive survey of historic
sites. "
Comment: Since ultimate responsibility for the preservation of historic
resources rests with the community, we feel it important to develop
comprehensive programs to acquaint the public with its heritage resources.
As the ordinance commonly provides for an advisory board, and as the City
Council has already appointed an Historical Commission, this would be
the proper place to legitimatize that Commission.
Response: The Conservation, Open Space, Recreation Element encourages
the development of educational programs by schools and public/private
organizations such as the Historical Society. The City Council legitima-
tize the Historical Commission at the time of the Commission's creation.
5. Office of Planning and Research:
Comment: The State Clearinghouse submitted the above listed environ-
mental ocument to selected state agencies for review. The review is
complete and none of the state agencies have comments.
Response: No comment necessary.
6. Coachella Valley Recreation and Park District:
Comment: I question the concept of a collector street on the west side
of the Palm Valley Storm Channel , especially if it is to be constructed
between our tennis courts and the channel . There is not adequate space
unless the tennis courts were moved. This does not seem realistic in
that we made a 25 year operation and maintenance committment when we
utilized State funds for their construction.
Response: The design of the collector street adjacent to the channel
ah s not been finalized. Every attempt will be made to design the street
to minimize the impact on the tennis courts. The City will work with
all property owners in the area when this street is constructed.
-5-
EIR AND GP STAFF REPORT
February 3, 1981
IV. COMMENTS RECEIVED (cont. )
6. Comment: The extent of our Palm Desert Community Center Park is almost
forty 40) acres. None of the maps in your plan delineate the site as
being this extensive. Will this failure to recognize the boundary of
our property possibly inhibit future development (of the park) or conflict
with the adjacent low density housing designation?
Response: The maps have been changed to indicate 40 acres for the
Community Center Park.
7. Southern California Edison Company:
Comment: Noise Element - Page VC23, Section VII
Because of the nature of work performed by public works organizations
and public utilities, it is necessary to be exempt from the limitations
usually found in noise elements and/or noise control ordinances. It is
suggested, therefore, that the following clause be added to Page VC23
Section VII of the draft noise element and also incorporated into any
subsequent proposed noise control ordinance or regulation:
"However, the provisions of this section shall not preclude the cons-
truction, operation, maintenance and repairs of equipment, apparatus,
or facilities of park and recreation departments, public work projects,
or essential public services and facilities, including those of public
utilities subject to the regulatory jurisdiction of the California
Public Utilities Commission. "
Response: The proposed Noise Ordinance could allow certain facilities
to be exempted from City standards. However, exemptions should be
decided on upon project review.
Comment: Seismic Safety - Page VD2, Section I, Para ra h 4
A3-d-lifter the first sentence of the last paragraph. . . 'The Technical
Report is accepted by the City of Palm Desert but is not adopted as part
of this Element. The design criteria and seismic response criteria
presented in the Technical Report are one of several possible inter-
pretations. It will be necessary to update the Technical Report as new
or more accurate information becomes available. "
Add: Between paragraph 3 and 4. . . "The inclusion of public utilities in
these documents is not intended to put the City in the position of being
an additional approving or monitoring agency for the utilities. It is
recognized that the California Energy and Public Utilities Commissions
have pre-empted local jurisdiction over the regulation of public utili-
ties. However, both Commissions are required to seek local input to
their approval of construction and operating procedures for public
utilities. Inclusion of public utilities in this document is intended
to provide that comment.
Response: The additions will be included in the General Plan Update.
Comment: Seismic Safety - Page VD12, Paragraph 1
ddef nition of t e terms "normal " and 'critical ' should be contained
in this section in order to refine these categories.
A third classification, "essential facilities", should be included to
cover those users whose collapse could impair the community's ability to
recover from a natural disaster to local individual facilities, but
would be a temporary disruption since delivery systems as a whole can
continue supplying essential services such as power and communications
systems.
-6-
EIR AND GP STAFF REPORT
February 3, 1981
IV. COMMENTS RECEIVED (cont. )
7. Response: The following definitions will be included to the text:
"Critical : includes uses whose collapse poses extreme, if not
catastrophic, hazards to life, property and community functioning.
Collapse of these structures or facilities is clearly unacceptable and
the highest level of safety is mandatory. Critical structures and facili-
ties may suffer some damage in a natural disaster, but must not pose a
threat to human life.
Essential : includes uses whose collapse could severely impair the
community's ability to recover from a natural disaster. It is recognized
that there may be some temporary service disruptions because of damage
to individual facilities; however, these should not impair the community's
recovery since delivery systems as a whole should continue supplying
essential services.
Normal-High Risk: includes structures of facilities which, because of
high occupancy or potential use in disaster response operations, should
not collapse and should afford occupants a high level of safety. Some
damage, including structural , and injury may occur, but loss of life
should be rare.
Normal-Low Risk: includes the vast majority of structures. Structures
should resist minor earthquakes without damage, resist moderate earth-
quakes without structural damage (although nonstructural damage may
occur), and resist major earthquakes, of the intensity or severity of
the strongest experienced in California, without collapse, but with some
structural as well as nonstructural damage. "
Comment: Seismic Safety - Page VD13, Figure 3
Delete "electrical substations" from this exhibit. The exhibit titled
"Taxonomy of Critical Facilities" should not include electrical sub-
stations in this category. In the event of a major disaster, some electric
power supplies could be interrupted, hindering relief efforts. However,
the use of secondary sources of power such as on-site generator for
essential services could be examined for use in emergencies as may be
required in the implementation section.
Response: The exhibit should be retitled to "Taxonomy of Critical and
Essential Facilities".
Comment: Seismic Safet - Page VD22, Paragraph 1, No. 5
Unn er implementation policies, change item No. 5 to read "public utility
facilities".
Response: Change will be shown.
B. General Public: In addition to comments received from public agencies
Staff received over 80 comments from the general public. A list of those
sending comments appears in Appendix B. Comments covered a wide range of
topics, some of which do not pertain to the General Plan. This section of
the report summarizes and responds to the comments received. In order to
refrain from redundancy, the comments are grouped into topic areas. All
of the comments received are on file with the Department of Environmental
Services for inspection during normal working hours.
1. Drainage/Flood Control : The City has been hit with two floods during
the past four years. Those who commented on the update felt more should
be done to avoid the damage that occurred in the two previous floods.
The General Plan Update recommends that, in light of the two floods, the
City should review the drainage plans covering the City and the North
Sphere area. Additionally, curbs and gutters are recommended for built
up areas. The two drainage plans recommend subsurface drainage facilities
and surface improvements such as curbs and gutters.
-7-
EIR AND GP STAFF REPORT
February 3, 1981
IV. COMMENTS RECEIVED (cont. )
2. Solar Energy: Comments were calling for active solar systems to be
required or not to be required.
Solar Energy is discussed in the Energy Element. The element
recommends that the City undertake a study to determine whether solar
pool heating, weatherstripping and other energy conservation means
should be required. The element does recommend that the City review
and, if necessary, revise various land use controls such as zoning
and subdivision regulations to reduce local consumption of non-
renewable energy.
3. Street Landscaping: Additional landscaping on El Paseo and Highway
111 medians.
The Urban Design/Scenic Highway Element recommends additional landscaping.
4. Lights: Tennis court lights should be shielded from view of existing
property owners.
This is called for in the Urban Design/Scenic Highway Element. Also,
during site plan and design review of projects the amount of light
overflow is considered.
5. Covered Parking/Shade Trees in Retail Area: These were called for to
increase sun protection.
The micro-climate is an important consideration in planning, ,especially
in Palm Desert since we experience extremes in weather-hot blistering
summers and winter cold. The Urban Design/Scenic Highway and Safety
Elements discusses various techniques available to mitigate weather
conditions.
Techniques include landscaping, walls and fountains. Micro-climate
is considered during site plan review.
6. Cultural Auditorium: A few of those who responded felt that there is
a lack of cultural -facilities such as a music center.
The Land Use Elment has designated land for this purpose on Country
Club Drive at the request of the property owner.
7. Low Density: Many comments were directed towards maintaining the low
ensity of the community.
The Land Use Element provides for a wide range of densities; from one
unit per five acres to over ten units per acre. The overall density
of the City at full development will be about 4 units per acre.
8. Hillside Development: The preservation of the hillside via prohibition
of development was called for.
Very low densities are recommended in the developable portions of the
hills. Current zoning regulations, the Land Use Element and the Urban
Design/Scenic Highway Element ensures that hillside development will
be compatible with slope and hillside preservation.
9. Police/Fire Protection: Some felt that there are not adequate levels
of police/fire protection in the City.
The Safety Element and Environmental Impact Report discuss the current
and projected level of police/fire service. Currently the City
contracts with Riverside County for both services. The Element recom-
mends periodic review of the level of service the City receives.
-8-
EIR AND GP STAFF REPORT
February 3, 1981
IV. COMMENTS RECEIVED (cont. )
10. Sign Ordinance: The sign ordinance is considered too restrictive and
revisions to said ordinance is recommended.
The Land Use Element recommends that all land use tools, including the
Sign Ordinance, be reviewed and, if necessary, revised.
11. Recreation: Comments were divided in the area of recreation. Many
called for additional recreational facilities such as bike lanes, parks,
golf course, while many others felt that these facilities are not
essential .
Recreational facilities are discussed in the Land Use and Conservation,
Open Space, Recreation Elements. Parks of varying sizes are recommended
throughout the City. The activites that will occur in these parks will
depend upon the needs of the neighborhood. New facilitiesare intended
to supplement existing facilities.
12. Public Facilities: Sidewalks, street lights, a high school and public
facilities in the north area of Palm Desert were concerns raised by
the general public.
The Public Facilities and Urban Design/Scenic Highway Elements discuss
these needs. Sidewalks and street lights are recommended in areas with
higher population density. A high school is proposed adjacent to Cook
Street. The Desert Sands Unified School District is the agency respon-
sible for school developemnt. The district is considering the construc-
tion of a high school , but no decision has been made. Finally, an array
of public facilities are recommended for the north area of Palm Desert
throughout the General Plan,
13. Transportation: Concerns of residents in this area included bridges over
Wfiitewater stormwater channel , widen Country Club Drive, provide other
modes of transportation and the proposed shuttle bus service in commercial
area.
Bridges over the storm channel are proposed for Monterey, Portola and
Cook. The main problem facing the City is appropriating funds for the
construction of the bridges.
The Transportation/Circulation Element indicates Country Club Drive as
an Arterial Street. As development occurs Country Club will be widened.
The proposed Circulation Network, as described in the Transportation/
Circulation Element, serves as the basis for other modes of transportation,
particularly bike lanes and golf cart routes. Other transportation modes
are discussed in the element.
The Transportation/Circulation Element recommends that the City and the
business community study the economic feasibility of creating a shuttle
bus system for the commercial area. Comments ranged from supporting to
opposing the suggestion. Comments also recommended that the business
community alone should undertake the implementation of the suggestion
and, above all , the shuttle bus system should remain as a private busi-
ness if actually implemented. These recommendations will be considered
when the concept is studied.
14. Housing: The City received many comments regarding housing proposals.
The possibility of low cost housing, the need for affordable housing
and time sharing were the main areas of concern.
The Housing Element provides for a variety of programs that could
encourage the development of a variety of housing types for a variety
of income groups. The Element recognizes the need for "affordable"
housing to meet the need of those who work and would like to live in
Palm Desert. The Element recommends the creation of a higher density
zone overlay to encourage and facilitate a variety of housing types by
-9-
EIR AND GP STAFF REPORT
February 3, 1981
IV. COMMENTS RECEIVED (cont. )
14. providing flexible design standards and other incentives. There has
been some concern that the overlay will mean a lowering of the City's
development standards. Although more flexibility is called for we
are not lowering our development standards. The provisions of the
overlay will be spelled out in the zoning ordinance.
Many people opposed the construction of government subsidized low cost
housing. Voters approved an Article 34 referendum, which permits 5%
of the housing in Palm Desert to be low cost government sponsored housing.
It is inevitable that such housing will exist. However, the units will
be scattered throughout the community and will be a small portion of
the entire housing stock.
The Housing Element does not address the issue of time-sharing. The
City Council is currently addressing the issue. A moratorium on its
development is in effect and the Council will consider an extension of
the moratorium at its meeting of February 12, 1981, in order to observe
time-sharing in Palm Springs and to do more study.
The Element also recommends condominium/stock cooperative standards. One
individual was concerned about the displacement of tenants while another
felt that standards should not be approved. The standards are intended
to protect the buyer by assuring that all units meet building, health
and safety codes, and protect the existing tenant by assuring that
there is a sufficient number of rental units available to provide dis-
placed tenants with adequate housing in similar rent ranges.
15. Other Concerns: The City received comments in a variety of other areas;
they are -a--dressed below.
- More Industry: Approximately 160 acres of land are designated as service
industrial . Additional land may be designated as service industrial
when a specific plan for the north sphere is completed.
Street Repair: Street repair is an item of the Capital Improvement
Budget. Some streets, such as Highway 111 and Highway 74, are under
the maintenance control of Caltrans.
- Water Supply: According to the Environmental Impact Report water
consumption for the City will increase from 40.4 acre feet per day
to 105.23 acre feet per day by 2000. The water district has indicated
that the water basin has the capacity of providing this amount of
water.
V. RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission:
1. Adopt Planning Commission Resolution No. recommending to the
City Council certification of the Environmental Impact Reports as
they relate to the General Plan Update.
2. Adopt Planning Commission Resolution No. recommending to the
City Council adoption of the General Plan Update with recommended
changes and any additional changes the Planning Commission may want
to add as a result of the public hearing.
-10-
C tTy CovQC,tL- R660L OTLOO ► )O
RG--50LVTLO�-) oP- T Vre, GIT"J C_Dv%JCtL OF- T C-tG Q vO
OF
PAC, m p si tz.�, CALtr-OR.t A ; ArV0fT11Jcr of T"
- L43469E A�� 'r(�e. l�.�� CO3n6 I et id. hv[a Q.CLU l6 mi ccdl
- p�bli� 1�ea�,i rt� on �Yl�u to «tom a1y4 ezAi noel. Pob t u. Neati,O&
-- -- on rAaac k A4,1 ta$t a&d, Apr� l %K8 l +-c c o vas-,44, t-xi R b CLc.
- ' 3cN e-VM" toso ,w tu.c.,l% `AQ, JZ v(pt►,
P Y�►r1 Y�T V1.� r�'►11.°a.. Gtb C�jPt'p J t� �p,� �t�• �� �V►u..Q� '.
# �� tf�t+�fCEAS, �`kQ. Qlr�rvn�� �fj►rr►►ti�S�+Oh o�- `� � a� ��L►-,ti.�
`L�e� ,, �-1=�.�,�` d:c� n�}�c�R p�b!« l�e��t.c%►� ova F�b�U�3,�4�►,
+. 6ttA b Plca�r�n�%n J ( vv►wt i�S i�.r i J'e�fui on 1��. & l fieco rr meld,
� o� �efierrat��rowf C�
WHt:REAS� p C�mvnlsslah
n ] _ �
C� C.0 VV$i dzt& (-p U Y1 c,��C� /VL i+t c� tlC( ev i S 1 O 0% r-o �,
-P r&a -t 6e-v, ir.Gq P(&,v, o n ma -k 31,E lq g
la 1leRe " I bt-a- 4 P(" k&v covKeloeA w tk
r U l fCYYVM j 0 L. Q. "&f;,4 C)T pQ1i+vt De f for-fug qa k--o �W[—
P4eYnf`+- 4. �foie e'if . G�uakx)� Act) ke-saui--i on
-,OL ✓la`s;c ecc P�b►�c. !`fie ng kaa o rj rria4c,�
� Ly �� d'�r'�s � � �i n�Q cn�►�n.vK-���aQ �rn.�-f-
in
1. the Draft EIRs.
i
2. Comments received on the Draft EIRs in writing or as a part of the
public hearings.
3. The staff report prepared on the EIRs for the following reasons:
a) the final EIRs are in compliance with the requirements of
CEQA.
b) The final EIRs do adequately address the environmental
effects of the General Plan.
WHEREAS, at said Public Hearing, upon hearing and considering the testimony
and arguments of all persons desiring to be heard, said did find
the following facts and reasons to exist to approve the General Plan; /�- 6X�A C0 � c
1. The Palm Desert General Plan does comply to the requirements of the
State Government Code.
2. The document as amended adequately represents a comprehensive,
long-te`"ii� genera i plan for the physical development Uf L le 0 ty
and its planning area.
Coin
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the in of the City of
Palm Desert as follows:
1. That the above recitations are true and correct and constitute
the findings of the Commission in this case.
2. That it does approve the Public Hearing draft of the Palm Desert
General Plan, dated November, 1980, women ds pp
y , i.l as amended by the attac h��er�t 1 aue i ed Exhibit "A" for the -
reasons set out in this resolution.
C,iU _, PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the °&'�
iss-ion, held on the 3*%day of UtA aaQy, 1981, by the following vote,
to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
ATTEST: K0 W tc�,ON� C11A,�0 /�
t
� r
a
C 1"1Y C030CUL RESCLJTIo�J ►�o. ______,
e tTy couNc,I c.
A R6501-U T ION OF: TWL 1? J4DAA/U* OF TEE CCry
OF P/}LA OESER.ri CA LI FOROA , CERTi FY i n5w F w Fl L ENVt XOM-
MG-M A G S rr C-PK--T JR E PO R7s A5 TliCY P�KTAI N TC)Tt4e PRO PM E-0
GIN cR.p�. f'L�►N
of'ham Cc�u�' ����� C�Q,%���✓►��:
W NIERIE-A-S � � Co u��a� O n ✓Yt (� t lG$
hold a GxkL,6 no+1CC4 P)bttL 1+P" �-o c )v)sicbe r '12tP. e6r4X—JC L"
c F I n4 E A u I rc)t1 MPA-aZ T nn Pact Re po AS ow ` f_f , ¢&.arc;, to
proposes (yWQL
WHEREAS,: the Planning Commission of the City of Palm Desert, California,,o-
did-hold a duly noticed PubliG -Mea-rang on the 3rd day of February, 1981, to consider
- -t#e -of Final Environmental Impact Reports as they pertain to the proposed
General Piano bvj
WHEREAS, said application has complied with the requirements of the "City
of Pala Desert Procedures to Implement the California Environmental Quality Act,
Resolution No. 80-89", in that draft Environmental Impact Reports have been completed
in accordance with the requirements of CEQA; and,
WHEREAS, at said Public Hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimony
and arguments, if any, of all interested persons desiring to be heard, said Commission
did find the fallowing facts to justify their actions, as described below:
1. The EIRs have been completed in accordance with the requirements
of CEQA.
2_ Any potential adverse impacts have been considered as a part of the
EIRs submitted.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED b t&n C�y the R1 >��=;-a n of the City of
Palm Desert, California, as follows:
1. That the above recitations are true, correct and constitute
the findings of the 'S i-�,ien in these cases.
C-0 U I
C.dunC;4
2. That the does hereby certify the final
EIRs as complete to include:
a) The draft EIRs;
b) Comments received on the draft EIRs and related responses by
City; and,
c) Public testimony regarding the EIRs during the Public
Hearings and related responses.
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED at the meeting of the 'Palm Desert ty go"n`"Q KA
on the 3ft day of may, 1981, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
ATTEST:
G. Ko%J w LLSo0, WO-30 r-
c
St►E�i-fi R. (ri+ l,�cr ►�, Git,6 CL-&.k .
/lr
err,
APPENDIX C
LETTERS RECEIVED FROM PUBLIC AGENCIES
P. 0. Box 2185 • Palm Springs, CA • (714) 323-0122
Transit Agency
VQ
as '
December 17, 1980
Mr. John Dos Santos
Assistant Planner
City of Palm Desert
45-275 Prickly Pear Lane
Palm Desert, California 92260
Dear Mr. Dos Santos:
Thank you for providing SunLine Transit Agency with the opportunity to
review the Draft General Plan Update and Related Draft EIR. The
following comments are offered:
On pages III B 24 and IV B 30 mention is made of potential future
local bus service; however, the roadway cross sections shown in
figure 1 do not provide for bus turnouts. If the development described
in the plan occurred, there would be a potential for fixed-route transit
service on several secondary roadways and major thoroughfares. Where
such service is desired, provision should be made for a bus stop lane
no smaller than 10 feet wide and 80 feet long. Normally, these should
be located as near as possible to intersections, preferably on the
far side (directly after passing through the intersection) . In most
non-commercial areas, it would not be necessary to have stops at
every block.
On page III B 21 , "Internal Design Guidelines for Commercial Develop-
ment," mention should be made of the need to provide pedestrian access
from bus stop locations or potential bus stop locations to the commercial
structures. Pedestrian paths interconnecting parcels are desirable
for the same reasons that traffic aisles are desirable.
The Draft Environmental Impact Reports do not address the potential for
transit to mitigate the potential traffic, energy, and air quality
impacts. The EIRs do not address any significant aspect of public
transit except the financial impact of current services if annexation
occurs.
Sincerely.,
Steven Brown
Transit Planner
40,
e•c" 1F1
Ve
-� COUNTYK OFFICE OF ROAD COMMISSIONER & COUNTY SURVEYOR
RIVERSIDE NAY 91 M93
DESERT OFFICE
A.E.NEWCOMB ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE BLDG..ROOM 313
46.209 OASIS STREET
ROAD COMMISSIONER&COUNTY SURVEYOR INDIO,CALIFORNIA 92201
TELEPHONE: (714) 342-8267
December 15, 1980
Aff-21 n�
Mr. John Dos Santos '"'
Assistant Planner 6 �9aU
City of Palm Desert
45-275 Prickly Pear Lane
Palm Desert, CA 92260 NCIV rOf�PAI-M
Re: Case No. GPA 01-80
Draft General Plan Update and
Related Draft Environmental Reports
Dear Mr. Dos Santos:
Thank you for the opportunity to review your G P Update. We would
recommend only that 36th Avenue be changed to Arterial status, providing
continuity with the County G P.
Very truly yours,
A. E. NEWCOMB, ROAD COMMISSIONER
AND COUNTY SURVEYOR
By
Warren R. Stallard
WRS/tf Area Road Operations Supervisor
STATE-OF CALIFORNIA • THE RESOURCE GENCY EDMUND G. BROWN JR.. GOVERNOR
CALIFORNIA REGIONAL WATER QUALITY CONTROL BOARD pes°::`s °
COLORADO RIVER BASIN • REGION 7 w� Zo
73-271 HIGHWAY 111, SUITE 21
PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA 92260
Phone: (714) 346-7491
December 18, 1980
DEC 19 1980
City of Palm Desert
45-275 Prickly Pear Lane ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
Palm Desert, CA 92260 CITY OF PALM DESERT
Subject: Comments on the Draft General Plan Update, the related
Draft Environmental Impact Reports on the Update and the
North Sphere of Influence for the City of Palm Desert
(GPA 01-80) .
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the subject draft plan.
We do not have any comments at this time.
JACK ALUJA
Senio WRC Engineer
JS/cksl
Iftw low
City Hall
Palm Desert,Ca.92260
Mailing Address: Box 77
ENA�p�gER�S
Palm Desert,Ca.92260
�' 1.�•1 pF.
De-cemb e�z. 22, 1980
G o j )a,�m Jezerz t
e,cxrrz tend of �nv uzvnmen;&Lz Se/zv.i..cez
4 275 %%Gl_G4,. /- i,ealt Lane_
l�c)n lie aerz, , Ca. �2260
,!yeah "io/z z;
Paving. zead Ae of �_e 9enerra, !'tan �v2 Sze Ctir v�'
!Le �i i•� vrz i ca t �o,w�.yi.vn o f i'alm 'eAe&i uv 4 o, erc
.avme recognedcti.orz4 fvrz Vteon.4efzvaiivn/6zven Smace/ "' ecrz.eadti.vn
ete zen� (1-ri). Pte4e .zeconvnendcttiorzz arse. ??ru� on z%e Aiz- o Zc
?4eAe2vcd-ivn r L, el ne.j zei lvrz-'z bti Ae. .Sta. rj Cvveruwnr.J (,�
v" ' -anj nn, cznd e4ea zcf a.� toe t t a s coav eiz dati orz.� t wA v f-�. ce zA o
Ae San FA ricLjc'o' v ice vp tote iifa ivnat l a�va /;'.i..j vruc ljrieje/z-
vcz�i.vn.
ie end X1,zccqo-,A 4', :,ectivn U'ri-2'J �`o incCec<!e
Ae �'u,z'.tvz�..irz.�U .idea.;
-- ,e lee.t ULC r,� ih iA time ii iA )vze naZurz.e
narie n i�tv2ic <-.Ue.j uai l-4..vu-1- cvm;q, ei.ivn of u
COI?irJ2elten.JtVe 4U/Lvelj, f'E LLA-4 V' 1f72CX}IZ.tCrJ2
i.Jt1Z iC;64'j u,U �aLtou. Con inc.eni
wain tie ;,'.LverzALde.. Coun;bi dulwet:, nou) in
q/worze,dA. % t.j juzveuuvvvide I ia-
;v /-ty 01 Aijk?Aic aru La z�. ou-1zceA
U=f' ;Cte I a.m Oe.0eA;! a tea.
-- Je �, ee.t -6a,� z'h.e e. cpzeni .jbwu td wanda;6e t!,
C.i.t<< vwveA=en 6 to ado rub an uuvnctinance �v
d 'ev -Ivp Ae ineG'tan.Lcj zq JcA fudzvr'.c and
cu-L&Au t ,z.e jourz.ce d mcw 'ofe an"cizved
orzv;�ecied and erdwrzcec . f�e wi-U' be tad ,,o .�rwvi e
Counci,C u,.t:z`_��. uk?del vrccl.,inaacej, clz z/vrc
;60 cIv cvz,y /,,"e6�/zeri reerutAed ;Poll Ae. czeaiion o!
an oAd inc�nce, and ,in crny off.iea, rz.eque..v`ed.
v� rz.eAourtcej 2e�z.��uu�`r't n e 'cv,,ivntuz i6 , toe
peel io deve-too cvmplLer'zenA ive. p1zo,?ac;;zA
.z'o acrwcin t x1he roubl -c .ice hevi Ua( e
ne�v�urce�, i'i�j bie orua. nonce conrwn,b+ Izvvi.de j
o, an a vdsJvAu � __�/, v I d Gaa2[z C C.iJeC.t wul2C FLU
a. Lead a,g. mined an. t'Z44 Olu.ca. Clvrr:u.a41ion,
wau d �e the PnvPea pJ-ace 4o Ce ,c rza e _ctit
corm'.i on.
eve z vzt,(d Ji'.11 gee the (,ibi, o f �abz Seven t have a corn,-)/LeAen-
ve. c uni tied ucz,. on fz,i�tv/z c ;wLeje&vab:.on be,&ILe .il .iA' ioo
Latie. %u ;V Lcu, rujj beo,in uu. A the au;,4Ao ii , o f .Cie Ceaenc,l
'sje uv uU a.00aeci.a;te l�e inc. no;6L4ed v f Wie da,e o e ;b r e next
' ; r a
publ.i.c necuz.inc� .do -Vw-� one v:>"ow,, l.ep,-,"entai.i_vej couU- le vz"en-C.
SimceAe,4t,
Anne
fli.stv�zica� Con ru 4zi_on
uvq
GOVERNOR'S OFFICE
OFFICE OF PLANNING AND RESEARCH
Y
y" 1400 TENTH STREET
IfOR
SACRAMENTO 95814
EDMUND G. BROWN JR.
GOVERNOR
January 12 , 1981
John Dos Santos
Assistant Planner
City of Palm Desert
45-275 Prickly Pear Lane
Palm Desert, CA 92260
RE: SCE #80073012
General Plan Update & North Sphere of influence, DEIR
Dear Mr. Dos Santos:
The State Clearinghouse submitted the above listed environmental
document to selected state agencies for review. The review is
complete and none of the state agencies have comments .
This letter verifies your compliance with the environmental review
requirements of the State Clearinghouse pursuant to the California
Environmental Quality Act. Where applicable, however, this should
not be construed as a waiver of any jurisdictional authority or
title interests of the State of California.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Sincerely ,
Stephe illia-nson
State learinghouse
Ca dwfia Daft Rww" aKd Path 'D[aft d
POST OFFICE DRAWER YYY
46-350 SOUTH JACKSON STREET INDIO, CALIFORNIA 92201
November 25, 1980
Mr. Carlos Ortega, Acting Director
Environmental Services
45-275 Prickly Pear Lane
Palm Desert, California
Dear Mr. Ortega:
With regard to comments on your general plan update.
1. I question the concept of a collector street on the west side
of the Palm Valley Storm Channel , especially if it is to be
constructed between our tennis courts and the channel . There
is not adequate space unless the tennis courts were moved.
This does not seem realistic in that we made a 25 year oper-
ation and maintenance committment when we utilized State funds
for their construction.
2. The extent of our Palm Desert Community Center Park is almost
forty (40) acres. None of the maps in your plan delineate the
site as being this extensive. Will this failure to recognize
the boundary of our property possibly inhibit future develop-
ment (of the park) or conflict with the ajacent low density
housing designation?
Respectfully,
Gary D.loty
Superintendent
id
Tel.3473485
=r
t
s
Southern California Edison Company
I'OST OFFICE BOX 203
PALM DESERT, CAL IFORN IA 92261
December 11, 1980
KERMIT MARTIN
AREA MANAGER
Mr. Ramon Diaz
Director of Environmental Services
City of Palm Desert
45275 Prickley Pear
t"A'
Palm Desert, California 9ZZ60 �a �' `00A
Subject: Proposed General Plan
City of Palm Desert
The Southern California Edison Company has reviewed the
drafts of the subject proposed general plan and we appreciate the opportunity
to offer the following comments and suggestions:
Noise Element - Page VC23, Section VII
Because of the nature of work performed by public works
organizations and public utilities, it is necessary to be exempt from the
limitations usually found in noise elements and/or noise control ordinances.
It is suggested, therefore, that the following clause be added to Page VC23
Section VII of the draft noise element and also incorporated into any
subsequent proposed noise control ordinance or regulation:
"However, the provisions of this section shall not preclude
the construction, operation, maintenance and repairs of equipment, apparatus,
or facilities of park and recreation departments, public work projects, or
essential public services and facilities, including those of public utilities
subject to the regulatory jurisdiction of the California Public Utilities
Commission. "
Seismic Safety - Pa e VDZ, Section I, Paragraph 4
Add: After the first sentence of the last paragraph . . . "The
Technical Report is accepted by the City of Palm Desert
but is not adopted as part of this Element. The design criteria
and seismic response criteria presented in the Technical
Report are one of several possible interpretations. It will
NW
be necessary to update the Technical Report as new or more
accurate information becomes available.
Add: Between paragraph 3 and 4 . . . " The inclusion of
public utilities in these documents is not intended to put
the City in the position of being an additional approving
or monitoring agency for the utilities. It is recognized
that the California Energy and Public Utilities Commissions
have pre-empted local jurisdiction over the regulation of
public utilities. However, both Commissions are required
to seek local input to their approval of construction and
operating procedures for public utilities. Inclusion of public
utilities in this document is intended to provide that comment.
The Technical Report is only one of several possible inter-
pretations of the design criteria and seismic response criteria. As more accurate
information is obtained this report will need to be updated.
Seismic Safety - Page VD12, Paragraph 1
A definition of the terms "normal " and "critical" should be
contained in this section in order to refine these categories.
A third classification, "essential facilities", should be
included to cover those users whose collapse could impair the community's
ability to recover from a natural disaster to local individual facilities, but
would be a temporary disruption since delivery systems as a whole can continue
supplying essential services such as power and communications systems.
Seismic Safety - Page VD13, Figure 3
Delete "electrical substations" from this exhibit. The
exhibit titled "Taxonomy of Critical Facilities" should not include electrical
substations in this category. In the event of a major disaster, some electric
power supplies could be interrupted, hindering relief efforts. However, the
use of secondary sources of power such as on-site generator for essential
services could be examined for use in emergencies as may be required in
the implementation section.
Without a precise and/or specific meaning to the word
"critical, " electrical substation facilities should not be included in this
classification. Substations are an "essential" facility to the community,
but not necessarily "critical. "
Seismic Safety - Page VD22, Paragraph 1 , No. 5
Under implementation policies, change item No. 5 to read
- 3 -
"public utility facilities. "
In the event of any major disaster, all "public utilities"
would be affected. Not just electrical and water.
It is recommended that the City of Palm Desert refer to
the Riverside County Seismic Safety and Safety General Plan Elements in
the area of risk determination. This will assist in compiling a more
definitive preception into classification of facilities. It would also synchronize
the Seismic Safety Elements between the two governmental agencies responsible
for the same conti:guous land area uses.
The Edison Company desires to cooperate with the City of
Palm Desert in developing a well designed General Plan. We hope the
above comments and suggestions will assist the City in the preparation of
the final document.
Thank you for your consideration in this matter. If you re-
quire further information, please contact me at 324-4691 .
•f S i
�ermit Mart n
Area Manager
KOM:j