HomeMy WebLinkAboutRes 2018-90 PD Local Hazard Mitigation Plan AnnexMEETING DATE:
PREPARED BY:
REQUEST:
STAFF REPORT
CITY OF PALM DESERT
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DEPARTMENT
December 13, 2018
Stephen Y. Aryan, Risk Manager
Adoption of Resolution No. 2018- 90 : a resolution of the City
Council of the City of Palm Desert, California, adopting the Palm
Desert Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Annex from the Riverside County
Operational Area Multi -Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, as
required by the Federal Disaster Mitigation and Cost Recovery Act of
2000.
Recommendation
By Minute Motion, waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 2018- 90
Commission Recommendation
The Public Safety Commission will review this matter at their December 12, 2018, meeting.
A verbal report on the Commission's actions will be provided, upon request, for the City
Council.
Strategic Plan
This matter is related to the Public Safety and Emergency Services section of the Palm
Desert Strategic Plan, specifically under Priority 3: Help the community become more
prepared for disasters and public safety emergencies. The priority's strategy is to expand the
city's current disaster preparedness efforts through increased education and public
outreach. By having an adopted Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, the City can identify both
natural and man-made hazards and better educate the public to prepare for them.
Background
The City of Palm Desert's efforts to maintain a disaster -mitigation strategy is on -going. The
purpose of the City of Palm Desert's Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) is to identify the
City's hazards, review and assess past disaster occurrences, estimate the probability of
future occurrences and set goals to mitigate potential risks to reduce or eliminate long-term
risk to people and property from natural and man-made hazards.
The plan was prepared pursuant to the requirements of the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000
to achieve eligibility and potentially secure mitigation funding through Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) Flood Mitigation Assistance, Pre -Disaster Mitigation, and
Hazard Mitigation Grant Programs.
Staff Report: 2018 LHMP
December 13, 2018
Page 2 of 2
Staff completed their update of the plan in 2017, and forwarded it the Riverside County
Office of Emergency Services, who included it as part of the multi -jurisdictional LHMP
submitted to the Department of Homeland Security (FEMA) for their review. The multi -
jurisdictional LHMP identifies vulnerabilities, provides recommendations for prioritized
mitigation actions, evaluates resources and identifies mitigation shortcomings, provides
future mitigation planning, and maintenance of the existing plan. The plan will be
implemented upon FEMA approval.
FEMA has conditionally approved the City's plan with no changes. However, in order to
receive final Federal approval, the City must formally adopt the LHMP. Staff recommends
adoption of this document to obtain final Federal approval.
Fiscal Analysis
No fiscal impact is related to adopting this document. However, if the City does not have
a LHMP in place it could jeopardize award of any future pre/post-disaster financial
assistance, including mitigation project grant funding.
LEGAL REVIEW DEPT. REVIEW
N/A
FINANCIAL
REVIEW
N/A
CITY
MANAGER
Robert W. Lori Carney
Hargreaves Director of Administrative Janet Moore Lauri Aylaian
City Attorney Services Director of Finance City Manager
Attachments: 1. Resolution No. 2018- 90
2. FEMA Correspondence (dated September 25, 2018)
2. Palm Desert's Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
RESOLUTION NO. 2018- 90
A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE CITY OF PALM DESERT LOCAL HAZARD
MITIGATION PLAN ANNEX, FROM THE RIVERSIDE COUNTY OPERATIONAL
AREA MULTI -JURISDICTIONAL LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN, AS
REQUIRED BY THE FEDERAL DISASTER MITIGATION AND COST REDUCTION
ACT OF 2000.
WHEREAS, President William J. Clinton signed H.R. 707, the Disaster Mitigation
and Cost Reduction Act of 2000, into law on October 30, 2000; and
WHEREAS, the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 requires all jurisdictions to be
covered by a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan to be eligible for Federal Emergency
Management Agency post -disaster funds; and
WHEREAS, the City of Palm Desert has committed to participate in the
development of the Riverside County Operational Area Multi -Jurisdictional Local Hazard
Mitigation Plan; and
WHEREAS, the City of Palm Desert coordinated the development of the City's
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Annex; and
WHEREAS, the City of Palm Desert is concerned about mitigating potential losses
from natural disasters before they occur; and
WHEREAS, the plan identifies potential hazards, potential loses and potential
mitigation measures to limit loses; and
WHEREAS, the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services has reviewed
the plan on behalf of the Federal Emergency Management Agency; and
WHEREAS, formal adoption of the plan by the Palm Desert City Council is required
before final approval of the plan can be obtained from the Federal Emergency
Management Agency; and
WHEREAS, The City of Palm Desert has determined that it would be in the best
interest of the City to adopt the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Annex.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF PALM DESERT HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. That the City of Palm Desert hereby adopts the Local Hazard
Mitigation Plan Annex to meet the requirements of the Disaster Mitigation and Cost
Reduction Act of 2000; and directs the City Manager to forward the Local Hazard
Mitigation Plan Annex to the Riverside County Emergency Management Department, the
California Governor's Office of Emergency Services, and to the Federal Emergency
Management Agency on behalf of the City of Palm Desert for final approval.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Palm
Desert, California, on this 13th day of December 2018, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
SABBY JONATHAN, MAYOR
ATTEST:
RACHELLE D. KLASSEN, CITY CLERK
CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
ROBERT HARGREAVES, CITY ATTORNEY
BEST BEST AND KRIEGER
U.S. Department of Homeland Security
1111 Broadway, Suite 1200
Oakland, CA. 94607-4052
FEMA
September 25, 2018
Ramon Leon
Program Chief, Preparedness Division
Riverside County Emergency Management Department
4210 Riverwalk Parkway, Suite 300
Riverside, CA 92503
Dear Mr. Leon:
We have received documentation from the Hemet Unified School District, Eastern Municipal Water District, City
of Murrieta, and County of Riverside confirming their adoption of the Riverside County Multi jurisdictional Local
Hazard Mitigation Plan. These jurisdictions are now in compliance with the planning requirements of the
Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000.
The Riverside County Multi jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan is valid for five years from the approval
date, August 30, 2018, for all approved participants. The plan must be reviewed, updated and submitted to FEMA
Region IX for approval at least once every five years. An updated list of the current status of participating
jurisdictions is enclosed with this letter.
The approval of this plan ensures the Riverside County's continued eligibility for project grants under FEMA's
Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs, including the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, Pre -Disaster Mitigation
Program, and Flood Mitigation Assistance Program. All requests for funding, however, will be evaluated
individually according to the specific eligibility, and other requirements of the particular program under which
applications are submitted.
Also, approved hazard mitigation plans may be eligible for points under the National Flood Insurance Program's
Community Rating System (CRS). Additional information regarding the CRS can be found at
httas:llwww.fema.eovinational-flood-inusuranee-Droaram-community-rating-system or through your local
floodplain manager.
If you have any questions regarding the planning or review processes, please contact JoAnn Scordino,
Community Planner, at (510) 627-7225 or by email at ioann.scerdino fema.dhs.eov.
Sincerely,
'i Juliette Hayes
Director
Mitigation Division
FEMA, Region IX
cc: Julie Norris, Mitigation and Dam Safety Branch Chief, California Governor's Office of
Emergency Services
Jennifer Hogan, State Hazard Mitigation Officer, California Governor's Office of Emergency Services
www.fema.gov
Status of Participating Jurisdictions as of September 25.2018
Jurisdictions — Adopted a
1 City of Corona
2 City of Hemet
3 City of Murrieta
4 City of Perris
5 Eastern Municipal Water District
6 Hemet Unified School District
7 I High Valley Water District
8 I Idyllwild Fire Protection District
9 I Morongo Band of Mission Indians
10 Rancho California Water District
11 Riverside County
12 I Santa Ana Water Project Authority
13 I Western Municipal Water District
nd Approved
Date=of;;Ado.
9/5/2018
8/28/2018
9/4/2018
8/28/2018
9/19/2018
9/18/2018
8/15/2018
8/28/2018
4/3/2018
9/13/2018
9/18/2018
8/21/2018
11/1/2017
Mori_
Jurisdictions — Approvable Pending Adoption
isdictiori . : _ - .._..:.::.:............u_
1 City of Banning
2 City of Beaumont
3 City of Blythe
4 City of Calimesa
5 City of Canyon Lake
6 City of Cathedral
7 City of Coachella
8 I City of Desert Hot Springs
9 I City of Eastvale
10 I City of Indian Wells
11 City of Indio
12 City of Jurupa Valley
13 City of La Quinta
14 City of Lake Elsinore
15 I City of Norco
16 I City of Palm Desert
17 I City of Palm Springs
18 I City of Rancho Mirage
19 City of Riverside
20 City of San Jacinto
21 City of Temecula
22 City of Wildomar
23 Beaumont Unified School District
24 I Desert Sands Unified School District
25 I Imperial Irrigation Water District
www.fema.gov
26 Kaiser Permanente
27 Lake Elsinore Unified School District
28 Moreno Valley Unified School District
29 Perris High Unified School District
30 Riverside Community College District
31 Riverside County Office of Education
32 Riverside Unified School District
33 San Jacinto Unified School District
wwv.fema.gov
Prepared by: Eric Cadden
City of Palm Desert
5/1/2017
CONTACT INFORMATION
CITY OF Palm Desert
Name: Eric W. Cadden
Title: Emergency Services Coordinator
Address: 73-510 Fred Waring Rd
City, State and Zip: Palm Desert CA 92260
Direct Contact: Eric W. Cadden
Fax: 760-340-0574
Email: ecadden@cityofpalmdesert.org
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LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
MAY 2016
PLAN ADOPTION/RESOLUTION
The City of Palm Desert will submit plans to Riverside County Emergency Management
Department who will forward to California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (CAL
OES) for review prior to being submitted to the Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA). In addition, we will wait to receive an "Approval Pending Adoption" letter from FEMA
before taking the plan to our local governing bodies for adoption. Upon approval, the City of
Palm Desert will insert the signed resolution.
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LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
MAY 2016
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The purpose of this local hazard mitigation plan is to identify the County's hazards, review and
assess past disaster occurrences, estimate the probability of future occurrences and set goals to
mitigate potential risks to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to people and property from natural
and man-made hazards.
The plan was prepared pursuant to the requirements of the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 to
achieve eligibility and potentially secure mitigation funding through Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) Flood Mitigation Assistance, Pre -Disaster Mitigation, and Hazard
Mitigation Grant Programs.
The City of Palm Desert's continual efforts to maintain a disaster -mitigation strategy is on -going.
Our goal is to develop and maintain an all-inclusive plan to include all jurisdictions, special districts,
businesses and community organizations to promote consistency, continuity and unification.
The City's planning process followed a methodology presented by FEMA and CAL-OES which
included conducting meetings with the Operational Area Planning Committee (OAPC) coordinated
by Riverside County Emergency Management Department (EMD) comprised of participating
Federal, State and local jurisdictions agencies, special districts, school districts, non-profit
communities, universities, businesses, tribes and general public.
The plan identifies vulnerabilities, provides recommendations for prioritized mitigation actions,
evaluates resources and identifies mitigation shortcomings, provides future mitigation planning
and maintenance of existing plan.
The plan will be implemented upon FEMA approval.
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LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
MAY 2016
TABLE OF CONTENT
CONTACT INFORMATION 1
PLAN ADOPTION/RESOLUTION 2
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 3
TABLE OF CONTENT 4
SECTION 1.0 - COMMUNITY PROFILE 6
1.1 CITY MAP 6
1.2 GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE DESCRIPTION 7
1.3 BRIEF HISTORY 8
1.4 ECONOMY DESCRIPTION 8
1.5 POPULATION AND HOUSING 8
1.6 BRIEF STATEMENT OF UNIQUE HAZARDS 9
1.7 DEVELOPMENT TRENDS AND LAND USE 10
SECTION 2.0 - PLANNING PROCESS 11
2.1 LOCAL PLANNING PROCESS 11
2.2 PARTICIPATION IN REGIONAL (OA) PLANNING PROCESS 11
2.3 DATES AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC COMMENT 12
2.4 PLANS ADOPTED BY RESOLUTION 12
SECTION 3.0 - MITIGATION ACTIONS/UPDATES 12
3.1 UPDATES FROM 2005 PLAN 12
3.2 NEW HAZARDS OR CHANGES FROM 2005 12
3.3 BRIEF STATEMENT OF UNIQUE HAZARDS 12
3.4 MITIGATION PROJECT UPDATES 13
SECTION 4.0 - HAZARD IDENTIFICATION AND RISK ASSESSMENT 14
4.1 CRITICAL FACILITIES AND INFRASTRUCTURES 14
4.2 ESTIMATING POTENTIAL LOSS 14
4.3 TABLE REPLACEMENT VALUES 14
4.4 IDENTIFICATION OF RISKS AND VULNERABILITIES 16
SECTION 5.0 - COMMUNITY RATING SYSTEM 20
5.1 REPETITIVE LOSS PROPERTIES 20
5.2 NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROPERTIES 20
SECTION 6.0 - CAPABILITIES ASSESSMENT 21
6.1 REGULATORY MITIGATION CAPABILITIES 21
6.2 ADMINISTRATIVE/TECHNICAL MITIGATION CAPABILITIES 22
6.3 FISCAL MITIGATION CAPABILITIES 22
6.5 FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES 24
SECTION 7.0 - MITIGATION STRATEGIES 25
7.1 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES 25
7.2 MITIGATION ACTIONS 26
7.3 ON -GOING MITIGATION STRATEGY PROGRAMS 26
7.4 FUTURE MITIGATION STRATEGIES 27
SECTION 8.0 - PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MAINTENANCE PROCESS 27
SECTION 9.0 - INCORPORATION INTO EXISTING PLANNING MECHANISMS 29
SECTION 10.0 - CONTINUED PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT 29
APPENDIX A - PUBLIC NOTICES AND MAPS 30
APPENDIX B - INVENTORY WORKSHEETS 31
APPENDIX C - PLAN REVIEW TOOL/CROSSWALK 32
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LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
MAY 2016
5
LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
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SECTION 1.0 - COMMUNITY PROFILE
1.1 CITY MAP
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LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
MAY 2016
1.2 GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE DESCRIPTION
The City of Palm Desert is a charter city in Riverside County. The City of Palm Desert is a
business, resort, and residential community centrally located in the heart of the Coachella
Valley, in southeastern Riverside County, California. Known as the cultural and retail center of
the desert communities, the City is only 125 miles east of Los Angeles and just 15 miles east
of Palm Springs. The valley is flanked on three sides by the Little San Bernardino, Santa Rosa,
and San Jacinto Mountains. The protection afforded by the mountains contributes to the arid
climate. Average rainfall per year is less than four inches total. Low temperatures rarely drop
below freezing, while highs during the summer are usually in the triple digits and can reach
into the 108-120 degrees Fahrenheit; however, it's a "dry" heat, with occasional periods of high
humidity in the late summer months. Visitors from colder climates flock to Palm Desert and
surrounding cities in the Coachella Valley from November to May because of our extremely
mild winters. Palm Desert's climate can be described as lower California desert.
Figure 1.2.1 — Climate Data Chart for City of Palm Desert
Month
Record high °f ('C)
Average nigh `F (`C)
Daily mean `f (C)
Average low `F etl
Record low `F (:C)
Precipitation inches (mm)
Climate data for Patm Desert, CA
An feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct tiou Dec Yea'
ce
•
0.50 0.84
(14,2} (1$.3)
103.1 107.3 105.0
{39.5) ))41.8) (4
25 33 38 4;
!'4) (1} (3) IT)
9.43 O.05 0.07 0.01
(10.9} (1.3) (1.8} )0.3)
Sowee: www ncdc r .ga
ae "
(13) ' (8)
0.04 0 04 0.04
(1} (13.7) (1)
101 25
FZI
062 3.44
(15.7) (17.4)
7
LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
MAY 2016
1.3 BRIEF HISTORY
The City of Palm Desert incorporated as a charter city on November 26, 1973. It has a
"Council -Manager" charter city form of government where the City Manager is appointed by
the City Council and is the Chief Executive Officer of the Municipal Corporation. The Council
acts as the board of directors of the municipal corporation and meets in a public forum where
citizens may participate in the governmental process. The City Council consists of five
members elected at -large, on a non -partisan basis.
1.4 ECONOMY DESCRIPTION
The City of Palm Desert obtains most of its financial needs through sales taxes and transient
occupational taxes. These transient occupational taxes are from hotels or when a conference
is held at any of the resorts located in the City. The City also relies heavily on the income
provided through tourism.
1.5 POPULATION AND HOUSING
The population of the City of Palm Desert, California is estimated at 49,335. Palm Desert has
a seasonal increase in population of 32,000. Seasonal residents may spend fall, winter and
spring in Palm Desert and are in addition to the permanent population. Major conventions and
events in Palm Desert and adjacent communities also increase our local population.
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LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
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2016 SCAG Report Population Statistical Summary
2016 STATISTICAL SUMMARY
Category
Paint Riverside Palm Desert relative to SCAG
Desert County Riverside County` Region
2016 Total Population
20I6 Population Density
(Persons per Square Nile)
2016 Median Age (Years)
2016 Hispanic
2016 Non -Hispanic White
2 1 lion -Hispanic Asian
2016 Non -Hispanic black
2016 Non -Hispanic American
Indian
49,335
1,840
55.5
23.8%
69.1 %
3.2%
1.8%
2,347,828
324
34.8
48.1%
36.49'c
6.2%
6.0%
[2.1%)
1,516
.7
-24.3%
32.7 5..
-3.0%
-4,2%
18,954,083
489
1
46.8%
31.2%
12.7%
6.3%
0.3% 0.5% -0.2% 0.3%
2016 All Other Non -Hispanic
2016 Number of Households
1.8% 2.95
-1.1% 2.7%
22,734 713,205 [3.2%} 6,132,938
2016 Average Household Size 2.2 3.2
2016 Median Household Income 553,149 1110011113.7
2016 Number of Housing Units . . 828,383
-1.0 3 1
-$4,218 792
0.696] 6,629,879
2016 Homeownership Rate 66.455c 54.3% 12.1% 54.3%
2016 Median Existing Home Sales 5332,000-533,000 5455,OC:
Price
2015 - 2016 Median Home Safes 3.196 7.1% -4 6.6%
Price Change
81.1% 80.9% 0.2% 78.8%
2016 Drive Alone to Work
20I6 i5.0
{minute
709,940 [5.7%) 7,920,602
2015 Number of Jobs 40,156
2014.20
2015 Average Salary per Job 535,272 $42,060 -$6,788 $53,962
2016
Enrc
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey, 2015; Nielsen Co.; California Department of Finance E-S, May
2016; CoreLbgic/DataQuick; California Department of Education; and SCAG
• Numbers with [ ] represent Palm Desert's share of Riverside County. The other numbers represent the difference between
Palm Desert and Riverside County.
Mapped jurisdictional boundaries are as of ]uly 1, 2016 and are for visual purposes only. Report data, however, are updated
according to their respective sources.
1.6 BRIEF STATEMENT OF UNIQUE HAZARDS
The Safety Element addresses a broad range of issues and hazards that affect the community
and residents of Palm Desert. Hazards and strategies from the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
(LHMP) Multi -Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (MJHMP), Riverside County Unit Fire Plan,
and Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) provide a foundation for policy development in this
element. The Safety Element also reflects technical information on the extent and scope of
hazards, as described in the City of Palm Desert Existing Conditions Report (2015). Relevant
sections in the report include Section 7 (Geology and Soils), Section 8 (Hazards and
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LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
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Hazardous Materials), Section 9 (Hydrology and Water Quality), and Section 15 (Public
Services, Utilities, and Recreation). These sections provide technical information on hazards,
in addition to context regarding the local, state and federal regulatory framework.
1.7 DEVELOPMENT TRENDS AND LAND USE
The City of Palm Desert is located in the center of the Coachella Valley, which is in the
geographic center of Riverside County. The city is bordered by Rancho Mirage to the west and
Indian Wells to the south and east, and the unincorporated community of Bermuda Dunes to
the east. The existing city limits generally extend southward from Interstate 10, past Highway
111 and along Highway 74 to the foot of the Santa Rosa Mountains between Monterey Avenue
and Washington Street. The City's Sphere of Influence (SOI) encompasses areas to the north
and south of the city, including portions of the Santa Rosa Mountains south of the city limits
and the unincorporated communities of Bermuda Dunes to the east, and Sun City Palm Desert
north of Interstate 10. Figure 2.1 depicts the Palm Desert City Limits, SOI and location relative
to other nearby cities or communities.
The General Plan area covers 44,533 acres, or 69.9 square miles. The City's corporate
boundaries include 17,256 acres, while 27,277 acres, or 42.6 square miles, constitute the
City's sphere of influence. Within the city, there are approximately 2,700 acres of undeveloped
land, much of which is in the northern portion of the city.
The city currently offers a wide range of housing opportunities, from rental apartments to multi-
million dollar estates. Like many California communities, much of Palm Desert's housing was
constructed in a suburban context in which value is in part derived from the separation and
isolation of neighborhoods from the rest of the city. This trend is most striking when viewing a
map of the city's gated communities and has likely contributed to Palm Desert's success at
attracting seasonal residents.
During the last General Plan cycle, the City initiated the development of the California State
University and University of California campuses, expanding the city's educational
opportunities. This move presents great educational, economic, and overall quality of life
offerings. However, to fully capitalize on the opportunity, the City will need to make sure it
appropriately plans for enough land in the vicinity of the universities to accommodate new
students, faculty, and university supportive businesses. Additionally, it will be very important
for the City to ensure that all new development in the area is interconnected so as to form a
cohesive university area.
Palm Desert has also concluded that the development of the Highway 111 corridor area into a
downtown presents an important opportunity for maintaining and improving the City's position
as a premier destination for tourists, visitors, and shoppers. The City's strategy is to focus on
retail business retention and the redevelopment of underutilized commercial areas in order to
protect and grow Palm Desert's market position. The City's strategy also includes transitioning
the Highway 111 corridor into a walkable City Center district where visitors and residents alike
can employ a "park once" approach. In part, this approach is based on leveraging the success
of the walkable "Main Street" form and character of El Paseo. The City is also responding to
strong market and demographic trends, driven by the Baby Boomer and Millennial generations,
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LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
MAY 2016
exhibiting strong demand for walkable, connected places over isolated, automobile -oriented
places. As such, this General Plan contains strategies that emphasize the connectivity
between housing, jobs, and services as well as the City's desire to enhance resident mobility
through high quality transit and transit -supportive development. In sum, this strategy aims to
create a true downtown, enhancing the city's identity, quality of life, and economic
competitiveness.
As the city continues to grow, infill development will be a critical land use strategy. This strategy
will allow the city to continue to grow and allow the city to continue to protect and preserve its
hillsides and natural environment. These amenities create the striking natural beauty that is at
the heart of Palm Desert's identity.
SECTION 2.0 - PLANNING PROCESS
2.1 LOCAL PLANNING PROCESS
Representatives from various City departments were contacted to determine if any projects or
activities were necessary in mitigating the identified hazards to Palm Desert. Each
representative was invited to participate in the planning process and to attend meetings via
emails. The plan was also sent out to each participant through email. The City of Palm Desert
General Plan also contains an Environmental Hazards Chapter that outlines various hazards
and mitigation steps, which includes a goal, policies, and programs regarding the identified
environmental hazards. The General Plan also includes a Safety Element which addresses a
broad range of issues and hazards that affect the community.
The following members from these departments all worked on the plan: Planning Department
(Planning Director), Human Resources (Human Resources Director), Risk Management (Risk
Manager), Building and Safety (Building Official), Public Works (City Engineer).
2.2 PARTICIPATION IN REGIONAL (OA) PLANNING PROCESS
The City of Palm Desert participated in the Regional LHMP planning process with the
Riverside County Operational Area by attending LHMP meetings and public hearings.
The City of Palm Desert participated in various Riverside County conferences, and meetings,
including:
• Operational Area Planning Committee: Beaumont City Call, 1/12/2017 9:00 a.m. — 12:00
p.m
• FEMA G-318 Training: Moreno Valley 4/3/2017 — 4/4/2017 8 a.m. — 5 p.m.
• Operational Area Planning Committee: Beaumont City Hall, 4/5/2017 9:00 a.m. — 12:00
p.m.
• Meeting with Riverside County LHMP Coordinator: Palm Desert City Hall, 5/3/2017 10:30
a.m. — 12:30 p.m.
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LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
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• Numerous coordination sessions via email and telephone with Riverside County's LHMP
Emergency Services Coordinator.
2.3 DATES AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC COMMENT
April 13, 2017: Update on LHMP was given at Disaster Preparedness Meeting. No comments
were made at this opportunity. Sign -In sheet included in Appendix A.
April 17, 2017: Update on LHMP was given at Public Safety Commission meeting. No
comments were made at this opportunity. Agenda included in Appendix A.
Posted on City Website between May 17, 2017- June 2, 2017 for public input. No comments
were made during this opportunity. Screenshot of website included in Appendix A.
2.4 PLANS ADOPTED BY RESOLUTION
The City of Palm Desert will present the LHMP Annex to City Council to adopt at a public
meeting, via an official Resolution upon FEMA approval.
SECTION 3.0 - MITIGATION ACTIONS/UPDATES
3.1 UPDATES FROM 2012 PLAN
There are no significant changes since the approval of the 2012 plan.
3.2 NEW HAZARDS OR CHANGES FROM 2012
The City of Palm Desert planning team has reviewed the hazards that affect the City and
summarized their frequency of occurrence, spatial extent, potential magnitude, and
significance specific to Palm Desert and have concluded that there are no changes or
additional hazards from the 2012 plan
3.3 BRIEF STATEMENT OF UNIQUE HAZARDS
The most prominent hazards faced by residents, businesses, and visitors of Palm Desert
are a major earthquake on the southern section of the San Andreas Earthquake Fault line,
localized flash flooding in winter months, dust storms, high wind storms, and drought. A
long term power outage in summer months could produce life threatening extreme heat
conditions for residents without access to air conditioning. Palm Desert could also be
impacted by terrorism or bio-terrorism that initially targets the Los Angeles Metropolitan
Area, and then spreads the impacts to all neighboring communities. The City of Palm
Desert has experienced the following hazards:
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LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
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• September 9-12, 1976 & August 13-18, 1977- As a result of two Pacific hurricane
systems, Kathleen and Doreen, which became significant tropical storms, Palm
Desert suffered considerable flood damage. The City's obviously inadequate flood
control system was addressed through significant infrastructure improvements, to
mitigate future flood damage.
• December 26, 2006- City Hall was closed for three days and the EOC was activated
and served as the Military/Federal Government/Local Government Command
Center in response to the death of President Gerald R. Ford.
• July 30, 2015- The Palm Desert Country Club neighborhood experienced an isolated
high wind/storm event that caused temporary flooding, loss of power for 24 hours,
numerous trees being uprooted, and damaged homes from falling trees and high
winds.
3.4 MITIGATION PROJECT UPDATES
The City has completed the following mitigation project identified on 2005 plan:
Portola Avenue Bridge Project
The City of Palm Desert Public Works Department constructed a new 447-foot four lane
bridge aver the Whitewater Channel. The new bridge improves safety and eliminates any
closures during heavy rainstorms that occurred in the past. The project cost approximately
$12.9 million and construction initiated in 2005 and concluded in 2007.
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LOCAL HAZARD M(TIGAT
MAY 2016
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The City has done numerous projects that have improved drainage and alleviate issues of
standing water after a rain event. Improvements were done on catch basins to help with potential
flooding issues.
SECTION 4.0 - HAZARD IDENTIFICATION AND RISK ASSESSMENT
4.1 CRITICAL FACILITIES AND INFRASTRUCTURES
Critical Facilities Type Number
Public Safety Dispatch 1
Emergency Operations Center 1
City Hall 1
Fire Stations 3
Water Reservoirs 0
Water Treatment Plants 0
Waste Water Treatment Plants 1
Hospitals 0
Police facility 1
Maintenance Yards 1
Senior Community Centers 1
Schools 9
Radio Repeaters 2
4.2 ESTIMATING POTENTIAL LOSS
Table 6.3 shows the City's exposure to hazards in terms of number and value of structures.
Riverside County's assessor's data can be used to calculate the improved value of parcels.
The most vulnerable structures are high rise hotels during an earthquake and the Westfield
Palm Desert mall.
4.3 TABLE REPLACEMENT VALUES
Name of Asset
City Hall & EOC
Fire Department, Station 67-
Fire Department, Station 33-
Fire Department, Station 71-
Palm Desert Sheriffs Station
Palm Desert Corp. Yard
Palm Desert High School
Palm Desert Middle School
Washington Charter Elementary
School
James Carter Elementary School
Replacement
Value ($)
$29,000,000
$5,000,000
$6,000,000
5,000,000
$33,000,000
$10,000,000
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
Hazard Specific Info.
Earthquake
Earthquake
Earthquake
Earthquake
Earthquake
Earthquake
Earthquake
Earthquake
Earthquake
Earthquake
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LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
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1 Abraham Lincoln Elem. School n/a Earthquake
1 Ronald Reagan Elem. School n/a Earthquake
1 Palm Desert Library $10,000,000 Earthquake
1 The Joslyn Center 2,000,000 Earthquake
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LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
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4.4 IDENTIFICATION OF RISKS AND VULNERABILITIES
1. Flood - Severity - 3, Probability -3, Ranking — 2
A flood is defined as an overflowing of water onto an area of land that is normally dry.
Floods generally occur from natural causes, usually weather -related, such as a sudden
snowmelt, often in conjunction with a wet or rainy spring or with sudden and very heavy
rainfalls. Floods can, however, result from human causes as a dam impoundment bursting.
Dam break floods are usually associated with intense rainfall or prolonged flood conditions.
In the Riverside County area, an earthquake can cause dam failure. The greatest threat to
people and property is normally in areas immediately below the dam since flood discharges
decrease as the flood wave moves downstream.
Floods are generally classed as either slow -rise or flash floods. Slow -rise floods may be
preceded by a warning time lasting from hours to days, or possibly weeks. Evacuation and
sandbagging for a slow rise flood may lessen flood -related damage. Conversely, flash
floods are the most difficult for which to prepare due to the extremely short warning time, if
there is any at all. Flash flood warnings usually require immediate evacuation. On some
occasions in the desert areas, adequate warning may be impossible.
For floodplain management purposes, the following discussion describes the Federal
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) definition of "100-year flood." The term "100-
year flood" is misleading. It is not a flood that will occur once every 100 years. Rather, the
flood elevation has a 1 percent chance of being equaled or exceeded each year. Thus, a
100-year flood could occur more than once in a relatively short period of time. The 100-
year flood, which is the standard used by most federal and state agencies, is used by the
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) as the standard for floodplain management and
to determine the need for flood insurance. A structure located within a special flood hazard
area shown on a map has a 26 percent chance of suffering flood damage during the term
of a 30-year mortgage.
The City of Palm Desert has experienced numerous winter storm flood and high wind
damages in the past. Flood control improvements enacted after the devastating floods
caused by Tropical Storm Kathleen in 1976 have mitigated any future occurrences thus far.
However, heavy rains can lead to problems with storm drainage and create localized flood
problems.
The City of Palm Desert recently retained the services of a consultant to update its Master
Drainage Plan for the North Sphere. The objective of the study was to identify deficiencies
of the existing drainage system, evaluate solutions, and provide recommendations for
required drainage facilities. In reviewing the likelihood of flooding beyond the public right-
of-way within the City, various locations were identified that have the potential for damage
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LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
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during a storm event. This project is fairly extensive and would likely be a multi -year effort.
More information is provided in the attached memorandum and map. (See Riverside
County OA MJHMP Section 5.3.9).
2. Wild Fire - Severity 2, Probability 2, Ranking 11
A wildfire is an uncontrolled fire spreading through vegetative fuels and exposing or
possibly consuming structures. They often begin unnoticed and spread quickly. Although
not located in a wilderness area, the threat of a wildland fire in or near is high do to the
wildland - urban areas in and around the City.
A wildland - urban are interface fire is a wildfire in a geographical area where structures
and other human development meet or intermingle with wildland or vegetative fuels.
Significant development in area of Palm Desert and it surrounding areas are considered
wildland -urban area interfaces and many of these areas have experienced prolonged
droughts or are excessively dry and at risk of wildfires. In addition, the Santa Ana winds
pose an additional threat to the community for spreading wildland fires.
Wildland fire hazards exist in varying degrees over approximately 90% of Riverside County
and the City of Palm Desert (open space, parklands and agricultural areas). The fire
season extends approximately 5 to 6 months, from late spring through fall. Hazards arise
from a combination of reasons: the undeveloped and rugged terrain, highly flammable
brush covered land, and long dry summers. There are heavy fuel loads, especially in
watershed areas unaffected by fire for many years. Structures with wood shake roofs ignite
easily and produce embers that can contribute to fire spread. The aftermath of wildland
fire produces a new area of potential landslide as burned and defoliated areas are exposed
to winter rains. (See Riverside County OA MJHMP Section 5.3.3).
3. Earthquake - Severity 4, Probability 4, Ranking 1
Palm Desert shares many of the hazards associated with earthquakes faults in Southern California.
There are three major faults and several minor faults that could impact the City of Palm Desert.
The major faults include the San Andreas near San Gorgonio Pass, the Palm Desert Fault, and the
Elsinore Fault. Each of these has the potential of generating a significant earthquake which would
impact the City of Palm Desert. (See Riverside County OA MJHMP Section 5.3.1)
4. Severe Weather- Heat/Wind/Cold - Severity 3, Probability 3, Ranking 3
The City of Palm Desert participates with the Riverside County Office of Emergency
Services plan for extreme heat conditions and has a cooling station located at (1) The
Joslyn Center which is located at 73750 Catalina Way in Palm Desert and the (2) Palm
Desert Community Center located at 43900 San Pablo Avenue in Palm Desert. (See
Riverside County OA MJHMP Section 5.3.13).
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5. Hazardous Materials - Severity 3, Probability 2, Ranking 7
The production and use of hazardous materials has become a normal part of society. A
hazardous material is any substance that may be explosive, flammable, poisonous,
corrosive, reactive, radioactive, or any combination thereof, because of its quantity,
concentration or characteristics. Hazardous materials require special care in handling
because of the hazards they pose to public health, safety and the environment.
A hazardous materials incident involves the uncontrolled release of a hazardous
substance(s) during storage or use from a fixed facility or mobile transport. Releases of
hazardous materials can be especially damaging when they occur in highly populated areas
or along transportation routes used simultaneously by commuters and hazardous materials
transports.
Because of the multitude of transportation systems in the City of Palm Desert (highways
and railways), hazardous substances incidents are more likely to occur. Fixed facilities do
have occurrences of hazardous material incidents; however, stringent facility safety
requirements help to limit these occurrences at fixed facilities. Fixed facilities include small
chemical manufacturing or processing facilities, manufacturing and light industrial facilities.
The agricultural businesses in and around the City of Palm Desert may also be a source of
hazardous materials incidents. Accidental releases of pesticides, fertilizers and other
agricultural chemicals may be harmful to the public health, safety and the environment.
Another source of hazardous materials incidents is the illegal manufacturing of drugs in
clandestine laboratories. In many instances, the residue and hazardous waste from these
laboratories are illegally dumped, posing a public health and safety hazard and a threat to
the environment. (See Riverside County OA MJHMP Section 5.3.22).
6. Technical Hazards - Severity —, Probability —, Ranking
The City is adjacent to a railroad track and also a major state highway, which increases its
risk to the susceptibility of a chemical release from a non -fixed site.
7. Dam Failure - Severity —, Probability —, Ranking\
N/A
8. Drought - Severity -3, Probability - 3, Ranking —5
The City of Palm Desert, along with other Coachella Valley communities, chronically
experiences drought cycles that cause stress on the Coachella Valley Water District's
(CVWD) ability to provide water to the community. To help bridge the projected gap
between water supply and demand in Palm Desert, the City has partnered with CVWD to
provide several water conservation programs such as the Weather -Based Irrigation
Controller Program and the Curbside Conservation Buffer Demonstration Program. The Public
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LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
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Works Department further offers a Nuisance Water Abatement Program and promotes the
use of drought tolerant landscaping. The City has adopted a water conservation approach
that promotes the efficient use of water to the maximum extent possible, so that they can
be maintained for future generations. (See Riverside County OA MJHMP Section 5.3.11)
See Part II - Inventory Worksheet Page 18 for complete ranking chart.
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LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
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SECTION 5.0 - COMMUNITY RATING SYSTEM
5.1 REPETITIVE LOSS PROPERTIES
Palm Desert has no repetitive Toss properties relating to flood in the City of Palm Desert.
(See Riverside County OA MJHMP on pages ADD).
5.2 NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROPERTIES
a. Describe participation in NFIP, including any changes since previously
approved plan. The City of Palm Desert is currently in compliance with the NFIP.
a. Date first joined NFIP.
b. Identify actions related to continued compliance with NFIP. The City of Palm
Desert adopted an amended floodplain management ordinance on October 13, 2011
c. CRS member. NO
d. Describe any data used to regulate flood hazard area other than FEMA maps.
None
e. Have there been issues with community participation in the program?
No
f. What are the general hurdles for effective implementation of the NFIP?
None so far
Summarize actions related to continued compliance with NFIP
g•
There are none continued participation of NFIP's Community Assistance Program
(CAP) and compliance is verified through Community Assistance Visits (CAV) that are
conducted by staff members from FEMA and/or the California Department of Water
Resources
ii. Repetitive Loss Properties
Other risks:
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SECTION 6.0 - CAPABILITIES ASSESSMENT
6.1 REGULATORY MITIGATION CAPABILITIES
Capabilities are the programs and policies currently in use to reduce hazard impacts or that could
be used to implement hazard mitigation activities. This capabilities assessment is divided into five
sections —
Regulatory Mitigation Capabilities
Administrative And Technical Mitigation Capabilities
Fiscal Mitigation Capabilities
Mitigation Outreach And Partnerships
Funding Sources
Regulatory Tool Yes/No Comments
General plan Yes
Zoning ordinance Yes
Subdivision ordinance Yes
Site plan review requirements Yes
Floodplain ordinance Yes
Other special purpose ordinance Yes Water Conservation Ordinance, ; Multi -
(storm water, water conservation, Species Habitat Conservation Plan
wildfire)
Building code Yes
Fire department ISO rating Yes ISO rating 5
Erosion or sediment control program Yes PM1 0 Regulations
Storm water management program Yes
Capital improvements plan Yes
Economic development plan Yes
Local emergency operations plan Yes
Flood Insurance Study or other Yes FEMA Flood Insurance Study, 2017
engineering study for streams Whitewater River Flow
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6.2 ADMINISTRATIVE/TECHNICAL MITIGATION CAPABILITIES
Personnel Resources
Planner with knowledge of land
development/land management practices
Engineer/professional trained in construction
practices related to buildings and/or
infrastructure
Engineer with an understanding of natural
hazards
Personnel skilled in GIS
Full time building official
Floodplain manager
Emergency manager
Grant writer
GIS Data —Land use
GIS Data —Links to Assessor's data
Warning systems/services
(Reverse 9-11, outdoor warning signals)
Yes/No Department/Position
Planning Depart./ Dir. of
Yes Community Development
YES
YES
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
6.3 FISCAL MITIGATION CAPABILITIES
Financial Resources
Community Development Block
Grants
Capital improvements project funding
Authority to levy taxes for specific
purposes
Fees for water, sewer, gas, or electric
services
Impact fees for new development
Incur debt through general obligation
bonds
Incur debt through special tax bonds
Incur debt through private activities
Withhold spending in hazard prone
areas
Other
Public Works Director, City
Engineer, and Building Official
Human Resource/GIS Technician
Building Department/ Official
Public Works Director
Human Resources/ Risk Manager
Human Resource/GIS Technician
Human Resource/GIS Technician
Riverside County Early Warning
Notification System
Accessible/Eligible Comments
to Use(Yes/No)
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
N/A
N/A
With voter
approval
With voter
approval
With voter
approval
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6.4 MITIGATION OUTREACH AND PARTNERSHIPS
Palm Desert CERT
The City of Palm Desert has been training residents in the FEMA Community Emergency
Response Team (CERT) training program. The City of Palm Desert offered two CERT
Course in 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2016. The city is planning to have three CERT training in
2017 and 2018. The city also has purchased a fully equipped CERT Response Trailer to
assist with community response and recovery following a major earthquake, flood or other
disaster.
The City of Palm Desert participates with the Riverside County Emergency Management
Department to provide training and support to CERT volunteers. The use of CERT trained
volunteers helps to mitigate the effects of a major earthquake, flood, fire, public health
emergency, terrorism related event, or other community emergency.
The Economic Development Program promotes economic growth in Indian Wells to support
the City's economy and improve opportunities for community members. It also conducts
marketing and promotion activities for Indian Wells. The program can assist with mitigation
measures related to business growth and other improvements to the local economy, as
well as acting as a liaison between the City and local businesses
The Community Development Department is responsible for planning- and building -related
activities in Indian Wells, including issuing permits, conducting environmental reviews,
preparing planning documents, and addressing housing issues. Mitigation activities related
to planning and building can be implemented by this department.
Building Code specifies how new structures can be built. It includes the California Building
Code in addition to any amendments made by the City. Mitigation actions may involve
amending the Building Code to improve a building's safety or structural stability
The City's General Plan outlines long-term direction for development and policy in the City.
There are opportunities to coordinate local hazard mitigation actions with policies within the
boundaries of the City as governed by the General Plan.
The Economic Development Program promotes economic growth within Indian Wells to
support the economy and improve opportunities for community members. It also conducts
marketing and promotion activities for Indian Wells. The program can aid with mitigation
measures related to business growth and other improvements to the local economy, as
well as acting as a liaison between the City and local businesses.
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LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
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City staff have been trained in First -Aid and CPR. Staff have also been trained in the "Stop
the Bleed" campaign. In the training, staff learned to:
• Control severe bleeding
• Manage airways
• Care for patents going to into shock
• Use an automatic external deflator (AED)
HOA MEETINGS/BUSINESS AND HOTEL ROUNDTABLE/RADIO COMMUNICATION
The City of Palm Desert has held numerous emergency preparedness trainings for local
HOA, disaster preparedness groups (i.e. CVERG), and may emulate a neighboring
jurisdiction's family and neighborhood emergency planning program called PREP (People
Responding with Emergency Preparedness) to complement existing CERT training. The
PREP Program teaches residents how to meet together and develop their own
neighborhood emergency response plan to implement before a large earthquake, flood, or
other community emergency. Having Palm Desert neighborhoods prepared to respond in
their own areas to take care of injuries and utility problems will greatly lessen the impacts
of an earthquake or other community disaster. It will also take the Toad off of our first
responders who will be able to concentrate on the most serious city issues.
The City has also hosted roundtables on emergency preparedness with local
hotel/businesses.
Palm Desert has developed a relationship with members from the Riverside County RACES
and has radio equipment installed in its EOC for exclusive use by their liaison. In addition,
the City has partnered with a local communication vendor, to make EOC communication
possible between the City and various homeowner associations.
The ability to obtain information on the condition of these neighborhoods will allow first
responders and emergency responders to determine those areas in need of resources and
support, as well as convey this information to the County Operational Area.
6.5 FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
The City of Palm Desert has the same funding opportunities as Riverside County
Operational Area. Please refer to Section 7.4 of the Riverside County Multi -Jurisdictional
Hazard Mitigation for list of funding sources available
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LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
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SECTION 7.0 - MITIGATION STRATEGIES
7.1 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
The City of Palm Desert mitigation planning group has created a list of Mitigation Strategies
and Goals for the community hazards identified to include the following:
• Complete mitigation policies and strategies contained in the Palm Desert General
Plan, some of which are outlined below.
• Continue to train Emergency Operations Center and general city staff in our
Emergency Operations Plan and the California Standardized Emergency
Management System (SEMS), the National Incident Management System (NIMS),
and the Incident Command System (ICS).
• Enlist the support of Church, Civic, Business, and Community Groups including
Homeowners Associations to support and promote CERT and individual
preparedness in the city.
• Establish and maintain a program by which all potentially hazardous structures,
which pose a threat due to inadequate seismic design, engineering or construction,
are identified, inventoried, and strengthened.
• Monitor and periodically update the Master Plan of Drainage to reflect changes in
local and regional drainage and flood conditions.
• Capital Improvement Plans for drainage management and control shall be
developed, updated and maintained.
• Evaluate the need for requiring an upgrade from a 25-year on -site retention to a 100-
year on -site retention in crucial northern portions of Zone 4.
• Continue and expand existing water conservation efforts, and coordinate with local
districts, state water agencies and CVAG members in a coordinated effort to
eliminate overdraft of local aquifers and affect a level of groundwater recharge
adequate to address associated ground subsidence hazards.
`Note: This list of mitigation strategies are based upon currently available funding.
Identified mitigation projects and are not guaranteed to be completed if funding is no
longer available.
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LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
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7.2 MITIGATION ACTIONS
The City of Palm Desert has only listed mitigation actions based on its identified high priority
hazards.
General Plan Goals and Policies:
• 1.1 Hazard Information: Establish and maintain a database containing maps and
other information that identifies and describes the community hazards.
• 1.2 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP): Maintain and regularly update the City's
LHMP as an integrated component of the General Plan, in coordination with
Riverside County and other participating jurisdictions, to maintain eligibility for
maximum grant funding. Office of Emergency Services over sees this program.
• 1.3 Hazards Education: Consult with agencies and partners to provide public
education materials on safe locations and evacuation routes in case of emergency
or hazardous event. No funding available. Office of Emergency Services over sees
this program.
• 1.7 Citizen Preparedness: Continue to promote citizen -based disaster preparedness
and emergency response through Riverside County's Community Emergency
Response Team (CERT) trainings and certifications. Funding is through the general
I fund and SHSP grants. Office of Emergency Services over sees this program.
• 2.3 Seismic Retrofits to Existing Building Stock: Create a phased program for
seismic retrofits to existing public and private unreinforced buildings to meet current
requirements. This would fall under planning and building department. Currently no
funding available. Looking at FEMA pre -disaster grants
• 3.1 Flood Risk in new Development: Require all new development to minimize flood
risk with siting and design measures, such as grading that prevents adverse
drainage impacts to adjacent properties, on -site retention of runoff, and minimization
of structures located in floodplains. This would be under the planning department
as new projects came in
• 4.1 Fire Preparation: Maintain optimal fire readiness and response service in
coordination with Riverside County and other agencies. This fall under the fire
department. Funding source would fall under inspection or plan check fees.
• 5.3 Backup energy Sources: Obtain and install backup power equipment for critical
facilities to ensure they are functional during a power failure that might result from
extreme weather. Some city facilities do have a backup generator. There is no
additional funding at this time. Looking at FEMA pre -disaster grants
7.3 ON -GOING MITIGATION STRATEGY PROGRAMS
D — Part II - Inventory Worksheet which include the CREWS system, Palm Desert CERT, and
various drainage improvements. The City's LHMP review team will continue to review and
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LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
MAY 2016
prioritize mitigation tasks for the next five years that may very likely see this list increase. This
list will include an implementation process, funding strategy responsible agency.
The City will also continue to monitor the need for a fourth Palm Desert Fire Station located in
the City's "North Sphere." The need for such a station is contingent on future growth and
development in this region and given the current economic forecast, it very likely will be many
years away before such as station is needed.
(See Appendix D - Part II Pages 16-21, "Local Jurisdiction Proposed Mitigation Action")
7.4 FUTURE MITIGATION STRATEGIES
The City of Palm Desert's future mitigation strategies include the following:
• Contact and establish working relationships and strategies with Coachella Valley
Water District, Southern California Edison, Imperial Irrigation District, Southern
California Gas Company, Verizon, and other appropriate agencies to strengthen or
relocate utility facilities, and take other appropriate measures to safeguard major
utility distribution systems to the greatest extent practical.
• Continue to train and educate the public and business community in Palm Desert
CERT and initiate other education programs, including pet owners and those with
special physical of functional needs (with neighbors/business associate support).
SECTION 8.0 - PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MAINTENANCE PROCESS
The requirement 201.6(c) (4) (i) states "The plan maintenance process shall include a
section describing the method and schedule of monitoring, evaluating, and updating the
plan in a 5 years cycle.
The City of Palm Desert plan maintenance process includes a schedule for monitoring and
evaluating the Plan annually and producing plan revision every five years. The City of Palm
Desert government may incorporate the mitigation strategies outlined in this Plan, in
existing planning mechanisms such as the City's General Plan and Capital Improvement
Plan
The City's Risk Manager will be responsible for coordinating implementation of plan action
items and undertaking the formal review process. The City Manager will assign
representatives from City departments, including, but not limited to, the Public Safety,
Building, Planning, Public Works, Finance and the Public Safety Commission to a LHMP
Review Team Committee. These committee meetings will provide an opportunity to discuss
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LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
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the progress of the action • items and maintain the partnerships that are essential for the
mitigation plan.
The City Council will adopt the LHMP and the Risk Manager will take responsibility for plan
implementation. The City Manager (or designee) will serve as convener to facilitate the
Committee meetings. Plan implementation and evaluation will be a shared responsibility
among all of the Committee members.
The goals and action items in the mitigation plan may be achieved through activities
recommended in the City's Capital Improvement Plans (CIP). Various City departments
participate in the development of the CIP plan, which is reviewed on an annual basis. Upon
annual review of the CIP, the review team will work with the City departments to identify
action items in the Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan consistent with CIP planning goals and
integrate them where appropriate.
Upon presentation of the LHMP for formal adoption, the recommendations listed above will
be recommended for incorporated into the process of existing planning mechanisms at the
City level.
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LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
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SECTION 9.0 - INCORPORATION INTO EXISTING PLANNING MECHANISMS
Palm Desert has several planning mechanisms which the 2012 LHMP will be incorporated into,
they are the:
• General plan Emergency Preparedness Element
• Capital Improvements Plan
The City has an Safety Element in its General Plan that outlines the potential for natural and man-
made disasters that could affect the City of Palm Desert and its Sphere of Influence and Planning
Area. It also describes the plans and facilities currently in place to deal with such hazards and
assesses the additional critical facilities and services necessary for the City to respond quickly
and efficiently in order to protect its citizens from injury and loss. The Element also discusses
systems and approaches that the City has in place to minimize damage, loss of life and impacts
to financial resources both during and after an emergency, as well as how the City relates to and
coordinates with County, State and Federal agencies in these regards. Finally, it sets forth the
City's goals, policies and programs which shape its priorities and direction in sustaining adequate
readiness for emergency situations.
The LHMP mitigation strategies will be consistent with the Environmental Hazards & Emergency
Preparedness Elements of the City of Palm Desert General Plan.
See Table Page 20 "Regulatory Mitigation Table"
SECTION 10.0 - CONTINUED PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
The City is dedicated to involving the public directly in review and updates of the LHMP. The LHMP
Review Team Committee members are responsible for the annual review and update of the plan.
The public will also have the opportunity to provide feedback about the Plan, as a copy of the Plan
will be available at the City Clerk's office. The existence and location of available copies will be
publicized through one or more of these methods:
1. Notice in the City's newsletter
2. On the City's Website
3. At various emergency preparedness meetings with the community, if applicable.
Any notice will also contain an email address and phone number for which people can direct their
comments and concerns. In addition, the plan will be presented for review at a public meeting of
the Public Safety Commission after each evaluation.
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LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
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APPENDIX A - PUBLIC NOTICES AND MAPS
SEE ATTACHMENTS
LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
MAY 2016
APPENDIX B - INVENTORY WORKSHEETS
SEE ATTACHMENTS
LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
MAY 2016
APPENDIX C - PLAN REVIEW TOOL/CROSSWALK
SEE ATTACHMENTS
LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
MAY 2016