HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-08-15 PC Regular Meeting Agenda PacketCity of Palm Desert Page 1
PLANNING COMMISSION
CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA
AGENDA
(HYBRID MEETING)
City Hall – Council Chamber
73510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, CA 92260
Pursuant to Assembly Bill 2449, this meeting may be conducted as a hybrid meeting
allowing public access via teleconference or in person.
•To participate via Zoom, use the following link: https://palmdesert.zoom.us/j/84739707419.
•To participate via phone: Dial (213) 338-8477 or (602) 753-0140, enter the Zoom Webinar ID:
847 3970 7419 followed by #. Indicate that you are a participant by pressing # to continue.
During the meeting, press *9 to add yourself to the queue and wait for the Recording Secretary
to announce your name/phone number. Press *6 to unmute your line and limit your comments
to three minutes.
•Written public comment may also be submitted to planning@palmdesert.gov. Emails received
by 3:00 p.m. prior to the meeting will be distributed to the Commission. Any correspondence
received during or after the meeting will be distributed to the Commission as soon as
practicable and retained for the official record. Emails will not be read aloud except as an
ADA accommodation.
1.CALL TO ORDER
2.ROLL CALL
3.PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
4.NON-AGENDA PUBLIC COMMENT: This time has been set aside for the public to address
the Planning Commission on issues that are not on the agenda for up to three minutes.
Because the Brown Act does not allow the Commission to act on items not listed on the
agenda, members may briefly respond or refer the matter to staff for a report and
recommendation at a future meeting.
5.CONSENT CALENDAR: All matters listed on the Consent Calendar are considered routine
and may be approved by one motion. The public may comment on any items on the Consent
Calendar within the three-minute time limit. Individual items may be removed by Commissioners
for a separate discussion.
None
Tuesday
August 15, 2023 6:00 p.m.
Regular Meeting
Page 1 of 51
Planning Commission Agenda August 15, 2023
City of Palm Desert Page 2
6. ACTION CALENDAR
None
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS: Anyone who challenges any hearing matter in court may be limited to
raising only those issues he or she raised at the public hearing described herein, or in written
correspondence delivered to the Planning Commission at, or prior to, the public hearing.
Remarks shall be limited to a maximum of three minutes unless the Planning Commission
authorizes additional time.
A. CONSIDERATION TO ADOPT A NOTICE OF EXEMPTION PURSUANT TO THE
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA), AND APPROVAL OF A
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT (CUP) TO ESTABLISH A RELIGIOUS INSTITUTION
WITHIN AN EXISTING OFFICE SUITE LOCATED AT 73726 ALESSANDRO DRIVE,
SUITE 102
RECOMMENDATION: Waive further reading and adopt Planning Commission Resolution
No. 2840 to:
1. Conduct a public hearing and receive public testimony.
2. Adopt a Notice of Exemption for a Class 1 Categorical Exemption in accordance with
CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, Existing Facilities.
3. Approve CUP23-0006 to establish a religious institution within an existing office suite
located at 73726 Alessandro Drive, Suite 102.
B. CONSIDERATION TO ADOPT A NOTICE OF EXEMPTION PURSUANT TO THE
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) AND APPROVAL OF AN
ADMINISTRATIVE USE PERMIT (AUP) TO ESTABLISH A 2,030-SQUARE-FOOT
BAR/LOUNGE WITH A 304-SQUARE-FOOT OUTDOOR PATIO, WITHIN AN EXISTING
COMMERCIAL SUITE LOCATED AT 72221 HIGHWAY 111, SUITE 110
RECOMMENDATION: Waive further reading and adopt Planning Commission Resolution
No. 2839 to:
1. Conduct a public hearing and receive public testimony.
2. Adopt a Notice of Exemption for a Class 1 Categorical Exemption in accordance with
CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, Existing Facilities.
3. Approve AUP23-0009 to establish a 2,030-square-foot bar/lounge with a 304-square-
foot outdoor patio, within an existing commercial suite located at 72221 Highway 111,
Suite 110 subject to findings and conditions.
8. INFORMATIONAL REPORTS & COMMENTS
A. SUMMARY OF CITY COUNCIL ACTIONS
B. COMMITTEE MEETING UPDATES
1. Cultural Arts Committee
C. PLANNING COMMISSIONERS
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Planning Commission Agenda August 15, 2023
City of Palm Desert Page 3
D. CITY STAFF
1. Objective Design Standards Study Session
2. Objective Design Standards Community Meeting
E. ATTENDANCE REPORT
9. ADJOURNMENT: The next Regular Meeting will be held on September 5, 2023, at 6:00 p.m.
AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
I hereby certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the
foregoing agenda for the Planning Commission was posted on the City Hall bulletin board and
City website not less than 72 hours prior to the meeting.
Melinda Gonzalez
Recording Secretary
PUBLIC NOTICES
Agenda Related Materials: Pursuant to Government Code §54957.5(b)(2) the designated
office for inspection of records in connection with this meeting is the Development Services
Department, City Hall, 73-510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert. Staff reports for all agenda
items and documents provided to a majority of the legislative bodies are available for public
inspection at City Hall and on the City’s website at www.palmdesert.gov.
Americans with Disabilities Act: It is the intention of the City of Palm Desert to comply with
the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in all respects. If, as an attendee or a participant at
this meeting, or in meetings on a regular basis, you will need special assistance beyond what
is normally provided, the city will attempt to accommodate you in every reasonable manner.
Please contact the Office of the City Clerk, (760) 346-0611, at least 48 hours prior to the
meeting to inform us of your needs and to determine if accommodation is feasible.
Page 3 of 51
Page 1 of 7
CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: August 15, 2023
PREPARED BY: Anna Dan, Associate Planner
REQUEST: CONSIDERATION TO ADOPT A NOTICE OF EXEMPTION
PURSUANT TO THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
(CEQA), AND APPROVAL OF A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT (CUP)
TO ESTABLISH A RELIGIOUS INSTITUTION WITHIN AN EXISTING
OFFICE SUITE LOCATED AT 73726 ALESSANDRO DRIVE, SUITE
102
RECOMMENDATION:
Waive further reading and adopt Planning Commission Resolution No. 2840 to:
1. Conduct a public hearing and receive public testimony.
2. Adopt a Notice of Exemption for a Class 1 Categorical Exemption in accordance with
CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, Existing Facilities.
3. Approve CUP23-0006 to establish a religious institution within an existing office suite
located at 73726 Alessandro Drive, Suite 102.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The proposed project is a request by Philip Garza (Applicant) to approve a Conditional Use
Permit (CUP) to establish a 2,400-square-foot religious institution to be operated as a place
of worship (Church) at 73726 Alessandro Drive, Suite 102 and find that the project is exempt
from further CEQA review. The proposed use is located in an existing suite within an existing
two-story, multi-tenant office building, and will be operated by Fresh Fire Worldwide
Ministries. The project involves some minor tenant improvements, but no structural or exterior
modifications are proposed. The use will hold services on Tuesdays from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00
p.m., Wednesdays and Fridays from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 pm., and Sundays from 10:30 a.m. to
11:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Staff finds the proposed place of worship complies with
the intent and objectives of the applicable zoning requirements and is compatible with
surrounding land uses, subject to the conditions established in the approval.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS:
a) Property Description:
The project site is an existing multi-tenant office building located on the southeast
corner of Alessandro Drive and San Juan Avenue in Alessandro Plaza. The site is
comprised of one parcel totaling 0.47 acres containing three (3) single and two-story
office buildings with a combined floor area of 34,624 square feet (sf). The Alessandro
Plaza development was approved by the Planning Commission in 2001 pursuant to
Resolution No. 2083 for Case No. PP 01-13. Construction of the buildings was
completed in 2002. The project site has an existing parking lot with a total of 128
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City of Palm Desert
Case No. CUP23-0006 – Fresh Fire Worldwide Ministries
Page 2 of 7
parking spots, accessible from San Pascual and San Juan Avenue which serve all the
tenants.
Existing tenants within the plaza include an investment banking firm, professional
offices, nursing school, spa, yoga studio (Approved Case No. AUP 16-37), massage
establishment, real estate office, non-profit, medical office, and caregiver agency. The
project will locate within Suite 102 of Building C which is 2,400 sf.
b) Current Zoning & General Plan Land Use Designation:
Table 1 – Adjacent Land Use and Designations
Existing Uses General Plan Zoning
Project Site Office-Commercial Downtown Downtown Transition Overlay
Zone (D.E.-O)
North Single-family
Residential
Small Town
Neighborhood Mixed Residential District (R-2)
South Office-Commercial Downtown Downtown Edge District,
Scenic Preservation (D.E., SP)
East Parking Lot Downtown D.E.-O
West Parking Lot Downtown D.E.-O
Project Description:
The project is a CUP request by the Applicant to establish a religious institution (Church)
within an existing, two-story multi-tenant office building located at 73726 Alessandro Drive,
Suite 102. The suite is on the first floor on the eastern end of Building C. The floor plan of the
proposed Church will include a gallery, teaching room, fellowship room, storage room, and
restrooms. Approximately 1,800 square feet (75%) of the Church floor plan is dedicated to
the gallery, which will provide a maximum of fifty (50) individual seats as indicated in
Attachment 4. The fellowship room will be open to congregants for gathering after regular
service hours, while the teaching room will be used for Sunday school during Sunday service
and for private appointments with the pastor.
Table 2 below outlines the typical schedule of the Church’s activities. The use will operate on
Tuesdays from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Wednesdays and Fridays from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 pm.,
and Sundays from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Regular meetings and
gatherings may last an additional one to two hours after each service. The Applicant
anticipates a maximum of five (5) to ten (10) congregants at any given time, with the potential
for up to fifty (50) as the congregation grows. Church staff will consist of one pastor and four
potential volunteers. No modifications are proposed to the exterior of the building or project
site.
Table 2 – Proposed Operations and Attendance
Day of Week Description Service Time Maximum Attendance
Sundays Sunday Service 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. 50 people
Tuesday Mid-Week
Service 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. 50 people
Wednesday and
Friday
Mid-Week
Service 6:30 pm. – 7:00 p.m. 50 people
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City of Palm Desert
Case No. CUP23-0006 – Fresh Fire Worldwide Ministries
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Analysis:
In accordance with Palm Desert Municipal Code (PDMC) Section 25.18.040, Table 25.18-1:
Use Matrix for Downtown Districts, religious institutions in the DE-O zone require a CUP.
Approval of a CUP is subject to the findings listed under PDMC 25.72.050. As part of the CUP
review process, staff and the Planning Commission will review the project and make findings
based on the following:
A. Land Use Compatibility
The majority of businesses located on the project site are professional offices and
commercial businesses. These businesses operate on weekdays during daytime
hours. Despite the different land use intensity that the Church demands, the plaza has
ample parking to support the proposed use without disrupting the surrounding
businesses. Furthermore, the proposed Church plans to hold its services when these
businesses are closed or near closing, to minimize any potential disruption as
identified in Attachment 4 provided by the Applicant. Table 3 below outlines the hours
of operation for businesses in Building C. The businesses in Building A and B have
similar operating hours on weekdays and some of them are also open on Sundays at
the same time as the Church. Staff does not anticipate parking to be an issue as the
spa and fitness studio operate on an appointment basis and have limit class sizes.
Table 3 – 73726 Alessandro Drive Existing Uses
Address Building Business
Name
Use Floor
Area
Hours of Operation
101 C
Coast
Capital
LLC
Financial
Institution 2,200
N/A
102 C
Fresh Fire
Worldwide
Ministries
Proposed
Place of
Worship 2,400
Tuesday, 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Wednesday & Friday, 6:30 p.m. –
7:30 p.m.
Sunday, 10:30 – 11:30 p.m., 6:30
– 7:30 p.m.
103 C Dori
Schneider
Professional
Office 2,500 Appointment Only
104 C Ed Fuches
Design
Professional
Office 1,800 Monday – Friday, 10:00 a.m. –
6:00 p.m.
201 C Vacant
202 C
Home
Instead
Care
Professional
Office 4,700
Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. –
5:00 p.m.
203 C All Desert
Wellness
Professional
Office 2,600 Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. –
5:00 p.m.
B. Site Plan
The property is currently suitable for the intended use, as it has the appropriate size,
shape, topography, location, and utilities. The Church will be situated entirely within
one existing suite and there are no plans to modify the exterior of the site. Access to
the Church is available from two different entrances on San Pascual and San Juan
Avenue.
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City of Palm Desert
Case No. CUP23-0006 – Fresh Fire Worldwide Ministries
Page 4 of 7
C. Parking
According to the regulations of PDMC 25.46.040, the proposed use will require a total
of seventeen (17) parking spaces. These regulations require one parking space for
every three fixed seats in the assembly area. Since the gallery area can accommodate
up to fifty (50) fixed seats, seventeen (17) parking spaces are required. The parking
requirements do not factor in the usage of the fellowship room or teaching room, as
these rooms are accessory to the proposed use. The fellowship room is utilized for
gatherings after regular service hours, while the teaching room functions as a Sunday
school during Sunday service. The overall attendance rate takes into account the use
of the teaching room and fellowship room.
Figure 1 – Summary of Parking Requirements for existing uses at 73726 (Building C), 73712 (Building B), 73710
(Building A) Alessandro Drive
Address Building Use Floor
Area
Required Parking
Suite A1 A Medical Office 6,320 25 parking spaces
(4 spaces per 1,000 sq ft)
Suite B1 B Personal
Services/Spa 2,500 10 parking spaces
(4 spaces per 1,000 sq ft)
Suite B2 B Fitness Studio 2,500 10 parking spaces
(4 spaces per 1,000 sq ft)
Suite B3 B Medical Office 2,500 10 parking spaces
(4 spaces per 1,000 sq ft)
Suite B4 B Professional Office 2,500 4 parking spaces
(4 spaces per 1,000 sq ft)
Suite 101 C Professional Office
(Storage) 2,200 9 parking spaces
(4 spaces per 1,000 sq ft)
Suite 103 C Professional Office 2,500 10 parking spaces
(4 spaces per 1,000 sq ft)
Suite 104 C Professional Office 1,800 7 parking spaces
(4 spaces per 1,000 sq ft)
Suite 202 C Professional Office 4,700 19 parking spaces
(4 spaces per 1,000 sq ft)
Suite 203 C Professional Office 2,600 10 parking spaces
(4 spaces per 1,000 sq ft)
Parking Required for Existing Uses 114 Parking Spaces Required
The project site has an interior parking lot with 128 parking stalls, including seven (7)
accessible stalls. With the 34,624 square feet of building area, and the existing uses
requiring 114 parking stalls, there is an available parking surplus of fourteen (14)
spaces. The proposed use should have seventeen (17) parking spaces available to
ensure the use has sufficient parking during peak demand during service times.
The applicant has proposed to stagger their operations to ensure that peak use times
do not occur on days or hours that other businesses and uses within the existing
complex require parking. The impact on the surrounding businesses is minimal due to
the operational characteristics and scheduling of the Church. The businesses in the
area are mainly professional and medical offices that operate on weekdays from 8:00
a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and are typically closed on weekends. The peak attendance for the
place of worship will occur during late evening hours on weekdays and early mornings
on weekends, which are staggered from the surrounding businesses. Therefore, staff
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City of Palm Desert
Case No. CUP23-0006 – Fresh Fire Worldwide Ministries
Page 5 of 7
does not anticipate any parking issues with neighboring businesses given the three
(3) parking space deficit.
Public Input:
Public noticing was conducted for the August 15, 2023, Planning Commission meeting in
accordance with the requirements of PDMC Section 25.60.060 and in accordance with
Government Code Sections 65090 to 65094. A public hearing notice was published a
minimum of 10 days prior to the hearing date on Friday, August 4, 2023, in The Desert Sun
newspaper. Notices were mailed to all property owners within 300 feet of the project site for
a total of twenty-five (25) public hearing notices mailed. Staff has not received any public
comments at the time of writing this report.
Environment Review:
City staff has reviewed the project in accordance with CEQA and determined that the project
is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15301 Existing Facilities (Class 1)
of the State CEQA Guidelines. Class 1 applies to projects involving the operation, repair,
maintenance, permitting, leasing, licensing, or minor alteration of existing public or private
structures, facilities, mechanical equipment, or topographical features, involving negligible or
no expansion of existing or former use. The project consists of a place of worship with a
gallery, fellowship room, teaching room, and storage area in an existing office suite. The
proposed plan would involve minor interior improvements to accommodate the proposed use.
The project will not involve the expansion of the existing building. The project is consistent
with the Downtown General Plan designation, as well as the Downtown Transition Overlay
zoning designation. Pursuant to Section 15300.2 of the CEQA Guidelines, a Class 1
exception may not be used if the project falls into any exceptions:
1. Location: The Project qualifies as a Class 1 exemption, which is not listed as one of
the classes under 15300.2 (A). The Project is not located on a site where it may have
an adverse impact on an environmental resource of hazardous or critical concern
where designated, precisely mapped, and officially adopted pursuant to law by federal,
state, or local agencies. The Project site will not impact designated environmental or
biological resources as it is not located within a conservation area as identified by the
(MSHCP).
2. Cumulative Impact: The Project will not have a cumulative impact on the environment.
The proposal does not propose any structural changes to the site which would result
in increased square footage or a demand for more resources. The proposal does
require three additional parking to support the new use, however, the staggered hours
of operation offer enough relief to avoid vehicular congestion.
3. Significant Effect: There are no unusual circumstances identified in relation to the
proposed use or Project site which would result in a significant impact on the
environment. The Project site is not located within a flood zone per the latest FEMA
Flood Zone Maps. The Project site is located within an Urban Unzoned area per Fire
Hazard Severity Zone maps depicted in Figure 8.5 on Page 119 of the General Plan.
The project site is not identified within an Alquist-Priolo Fault Zone per the latest maps
on file with the California Department of Conservation; the nearest fault zone is the
San Andreas Fault located north of the Palm Desert City Limits
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Case No. CUP23-0006 – Fresh Fire Worldwide Ministries
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4. Scenic Highways: The Project site is not located within proximity of any officially
designated state Scenic Highway. The nearest officially designated scenic highway is
Highway 74, south of Highway 111, located approximately three-quarters of a mile
southwest of the site.
5. Hazardous Waste Site: The project site has not been identified as a hazardous waste
site per maps and databases provided by the California Department of Toxic
Substances Control (DTSC).
6. Historical Resources: The project site does not contain any structure or title that would
designate it as a historical resource. Therefore, the project will not cause a substantial
adverse change in the significance of a historical resource.
Findings of Approval:
In accordance with PDMC 25.72.050 (F), the following findings are required before granting
a conditional use permit:
1. That the proposed location of the conditional use is in accord with the objectives of
this title and the purpose of the district in which the site is located.
The proposed location is zoned Downtown Transition Overlay (DE-O), and religious
institutions are permitted with a Conditional Use Permit. The DE-O zoning district is
designed to ensure appropriate scaling transitions to neighboring residential areas,
allowing for housing development as well as civic, cultural, and personal services
uses. Professional offices, commercial businesses, and residential dwellings are the
predominant uses in the surrounding area. The nature of the proposed use would not
change the character of the existing office complex in a way that would affect the
purpose of the DE-O zone. The Church is located within an existing office building and
does not propose any structural or exterior changes that would alter the appearance
of the site.
2. That the proposed location of the conditional use and the conditions under which it
would be operated or maintained will not be detrimental to the public health, safety, or
welfare, or be materially injurious to properties or improvements in the vicinity.
The proposed place of worship will not be detrimental to public health, safety, or
welfare, or be materially injurious to properties or improvements in the vicinity. Other
places of worship with similar use intensities have been established within the City in
centers with tangential uses. This type of use is not generally anticipated to create
adverse impacts on health, safety, or welfare. The use will operate within an existing
office building.
3. That the proposed conditional use will comply with each of the applicable provisions
of this title, except for approved variances or adjustments.
The proposed use, as conditioned, will comply with the objective requirements of the
zoning ordinance. The site complies with the intent and purpose of the DE-O zoning
district and development standards, as no modifications are proposed. There are 128
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City of Palm Desert
Case No. CUP23-0006 – Fresh Fire Worldwide Ministries
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parking spaces in the interior parking lot and the existing uses already create a
demand for 114 spaces. Because the Church requires seventeen (17) parking spaces
at a parking ratio of one space per three fixed seats, the parking is deficient by three
spaces. However, the applicant has proposed a schedule that will ensure peak parking
demand does not coincide with surrounding businesses. Table 2 and 3 demonstrate
that attendees who come for the service or pastoral counseling use the parking lot
during hours when nearby businesses are closed or about to close. Therefore, staff
does not find this deficiency to be a significant concern.
4. That the proposed conditional use complies with the goals, objectives, and policies of
the City’s General Plan.
The project site has a General Plan land use designation of Downtown District. This
land use designation is intended to provide a variety of civic, cultural, entertainment,
retail, restaurant, and commercial services. The proposed use is a Church within an
existing office complex. As presented and conditioned, the Church does not
significantly alter the character of the complex or inhibit the function of the office
complex. Furthermore, the proposed hours of operation for the Church are scheduled
in a way that will not interfere with the surrounding businesses' peak attendance and
parking demand.
REVIEWED BY:
Department Director: Richard D. Cannone, AICP
Principal Planner: Nick Melloni
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Draft Planning Commission Resolution No. 2840
2. Public Hearing Notice
3. CEQA Notice of Exemption
4. Statement of Use
5. Project Plans
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PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2840
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF PALM
DESERT, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING A NOTICE OF EXEMPTION
PURSUANT TO THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
ACT (CEQA); AND APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT (CUP) TO
ESTABLISH A RELIGIOUS INSTITUTION WITHIN AN EXISTING OFFICE
SUITE LOCATED AT 73726 ALESSANDRO DRIVE, SUITE 102
CASE NO. CUP 23-0006
WHEREAS, Philip Garza (“Applicant”) submitted a CUP application to establish a
religious institution within an approximately 2,400 square-foot existing office suite located at
73726 Alessandro Drive, Suite 102 (“Project”); and
WHEREAS, the proposed Project conforms to the General Plan land use designation
of the Downtown District and development standards listed in the City’s Zoning Ordinance for
the Downtown Transition Overlay (D.E.-O) zoning district; and
WHEREAS, the proposed Project is compatible with the uses in the vicinity of the
location on Alessandro Drive and conforms to the zoning designation and overlay district; and
WHEREAS, under Section 21067 of the Public Resources Code, Section 15367 of the
State CEQA Guidelines (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 14, § 15000 et seq.), and the City of Palm
Desert’s (“City’s”) Local CEQA Guidelines, the City is the lead agency for the proposed
Project; and
WHEREAS, said application has complied with the requirements of the "City of Palm
Desert Procedure for Implementation of CEQA” Resolution No. 2019-41, in that the Director
of Development Services has determined that the Project will not have a significant impact
on the environment and that the Project is categorically exempt under Article 19, Section
15301 Existing Facilities (Class 1) of the CEQA Guidelines, and is not subject to any
exceptions as identified in CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2; therefore, no further
environmental review is necessary; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Palm Desert, California, did on
the 15th day of August 2023, hold a duly noticed public hearing to consider the request by the
Applicant for approval of the above-noted Project request, subject to conditions; and
WHEREAS, all other legal prerequisites to the adoption of this Resolution have
occurred; and
WHEREAS, at the said public hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimony and
arguments, if any, of all interested persons desiring to be heard, the Planning Commission
did find the following facts and reasons, which are outlined in the staff report, exist to justify
approval of said request:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Planning Commission of the City of
Palm Desert, California, as follows:
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PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2840
2
SECTION 1. Recitals. The Planning Commission hereby finds that the foregoing
recitals are true and correct and are incorporated herein as substantive findings of this
Resolution.
SECTION 2. Findings on Conditional Use Permit. Under PDMC Section 25.72.050(F),
the findings for the conditional use permit are the following:
1. That the proposed location of the conditional use is in accord with the objectives of
this title and the purpose of the district in which the site is located.
The proposed location is zoned Downtown Transition Overlay (DE-O), and religious
institutions are permitted with a Conditional Use Permit. The DE-O zoning district is
designed to ensure appropriate scaling transitions to neighboring residential areas,
allowing for housing development as well as civic, cultural, and personal services
uses. Professional offices, commercial businesses, and residential dwellings are the
predominant uses in the surrounding area. The nature of the proposed use would not
change the character of the existing office complex in a way that would affect the
purpose of the DE-O zone. The church is located within an existing office building and
does not propose any structural or exterior changes that would alter the appearance
of the site.
2. That the proposed location of the conditional use and the conditions under which it
would be operated or maintained will not be detrimental to the public health, safety, or
welfare, or be materially injurious to properties or improvements in the vicinity.
The proposed religious institution will not be detrimental to public health, safety, or
welfare, or be materially injurious to properties or improvements in the vicinity. Other
places of worship with similar use intensities have been established within the City in
centers with tangential uses. This type of use is not generally anticipated to create
adverse impacts on health, safety, or welfare. The use will operate within an existing
office building.
3. That the proposed conditional use will comply with each of the applicable provisions
of this title, except for approved variances or adjustments.
The proposed use, as conditioned, will comply with the objective requirements of the
zoning ordinance. The site complies with the intent and purpose of the DE-O zoning
district and development standards, as no modifications are proposed. There are 128
parking spaces in the interior parking lot and the existing uses already create a
demand for 114 spaces. Because the church requires seventeen (17) parking spaces
at a parking ratio of one space per three fixed seats, the parking is deficient by three
spaces. However, the applicant has proposed a schedule that will ensure peak parking
demand does not coincide with surrounding businesses. Attendees who come for the
service or pastoral counseling use the parking lot during hours when nearby
businesses are closed or about to close. Therefore, staff does not find this deficiency
to be a significant concern.
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PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2840
3
4. That the proposed conditional use complies with the goals, objectives, and policies of
the City’s General Plan.
The project site has a General Plan land use designation of Downtown District. This
land use designation is intended to provide a variety of civic, cultural, entertainment,
retail, restaurant, and commercial services. The proposed use is a religious institution
within an existing office complex. As presented and conditioned, the church does not
significantly alter the character of the complex or inhibit the function of the office
complex. Furthermore, the proposed hours of operation for the church are scheduled
in a way that will not interfere with the surrounding businesses' peak attendance and
parking demand.
SECTION 3. CEQA. The application has complied with the requirements of the “City
of Palm Desert Procedure for Implementation of CEQA” Resolution No. 2019-41, in that the
Planning Commission finds that the Project is exempt from CEQA per Section 15301 of the
State CEQA guidelines as the Project is a Class 1 Existing Facilities. Class 1 is intended for
projects involving the operation, repair, maintenance, permitting, leasing, licensing, or minor
alteration of existing public or private structures, facilities, mechanical equipment, or
topographical features, involving negligible or no expansion of existing or former use. The
proposed church would involve minor interior improvements to accommodate the proposed
use. As analyzed, the Project involves the establishment of a 2,400-square-foot religious
institution within an existing office suite. The proposed Project complies with the development
standards within the D.E.-O zoning designation and does not result in any additional square
footage. The Project does anticipate minor interior alterations such as interior partitions,
plumbing, and electrical conveyances to bring the suite up to California Building Code
standards.
Additionally, the Project is not subject to any of the exceptions for categorical exemptions
identified in CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2:
1) The Project qualifies as a Class 1 exemption, which is not listed as one of the classes
under 15300.2 (A). The Project is not located on a site where it may have an adverse
impact on an environmental resource of hazardous or critical concern where
designated, precisely mapped, and officially adopted pursuant to law by federal, state,
or local agencies. The Project site will not impact designated environmental or
biological resources as it is not located within a conservation area as identified by the
(MSHCP).
2) The Project will not have a cumulative impact on the environment. The proposal does
not propose any structural changes to the site which would result in increased square
footage or a demand for more resources. The proposal does require additional
parking to support the proposed use, however, the staggered hours of operation offer
enough relief to avoid vehicular congestion.
3) There are no unusual circumstances identified in relation to the proposed use or
Project site which would result in a significant impact on the environment. The Project
site is not located within a flood zone per the latest FEMA Flood Zone Maps. The
Page 13 of 51
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2840
4
Project site is located within an Urban Unzoned area per Fire Hazard Severity Zone
maps depicted in Figure 8.5 on Page 119 of the General Plan. The project site is not
identified within an Alquist-Priolo Fault Zone per the latest maps on file with the
California Department of Conservation; the nearest fault zone is the San Andreas
Fault located north of the Palm Desert City Limits.
4) The Project site is not located within proximity of any officially designated state Scenic
Highway. The nearest officially designated scenic highway is Highway 74, south of
Highway 111, located approximately 3 miles southwest of the site.
5) Hazardous Waste Site: The Project site has not been identified as a hazardous waste
site per maps and databases provided by the California Department of Toxic
Substances Control (DTSC).
6) The Project site does not contain any structure or title that would designate it as a
historical resource. Therefore, the project will not cause a substantial adverse change
in the significance of a historical resource.
SECTION 4. Project Approval. The Planning Commission hereby recommends
approval of CUP23-0006; and
SECTION 5. Custodian of Records. The documents and materials that constitute the
record of proceedings on which these findings are based are located at the City’s office at
73510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92260. Richard D. Cannone, AICP, the Secretary
to the Palm Desert Planning Commission, is the custodian of the record of proceedings.
SECTION 6. Execution of Resolution. The Chairperson of the Planning Commission
signs this Resolution, and the Secretary to the Commission shall attest and certify to the
passage and adoption thereof.
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 and correct and constitute the findings for
approval of the Planning Commission in this case.
2. That the Planning Commission does hereby approve Case No. CUP23-0006.
ADOPTED ON August 15, 2023.
JOSEPH PRADETTO
CHAIRPERSON
Page 14 of 51
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2840
5
ATTEST:
RICHARD D. CANNONE, AICP
SECRETARY
I, Richard D. Cannone, AICP, Secretary of the City of Palm Desert, hereby certify that
Resolution No. 2840 is a full, true, and correct copy, and was duly adopted at a regular
meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Palm Desert on August 15, 2023, by the
following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
RECUSED:
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the official seal of the City
of Palm Desert, California, on August ____, 2023.
RICHARD D. CANNONE, AICP
SECRETARY
Page 15 of 51
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2840
6
EXHIBIT “A”
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
CASE NOS. CUP23-0006
PLANNING DIVISION:
1. The development and operations of the property shall conform substantially with exhibits
on file with the Development Services Department, included as Exhibit “B” of this
resolution, except as modified by the following conditions. Any variation from the
approved plans must be reviewed and approved by the Planning Division prior to building
permit issuance and may require review and approval by the Director of Development
Services, ARC, Planning Commission, and/or City Council.
2. The Applicant agrees that in the event of any administrative, legal, or equitable action
instituted by a third party challenging the validity of any of the procedures leading to the
adoption of these Project Approvals for the Project, or the Project Approvals themselves,
the Developer and City each shall have the right, in their sole discretion, to elect whether
or not to defend such action. The Developer, at its sole expense, shall defend, indemnify,
and hold harmless the City (including its agents, officers, and employees) from any such
action, claim, or proceeding with counsel chosen by the City, subject to the Developer’s
approval of counsel, which shall not be unreasonably denied, and at the Developer’s sole
expense. If the City is aware of such an action or proceeding, it shall promptly notify the
Developer and cooperate in the defense. The Developer, upon such notification, shall
deposit with City sufficient funds in the judgment of the City Finance Director to cover the
expense of defending such action without any offset or claim against said deposit to
assure that the City expends no City funds. If both Parties elect to defend, the Parties
hereby agree to affirmatively cooperate in defending said action and to execute a joint
defense and confidentiality agreement in order to share and protect the information under
the joint defense privilege recognized under applicable law. As part of the cooperation in
defending an action, City and Developer shall coordinate their defense in order to make
the most efficient use of legal counsel and to share and protect information. Developer
and City shall each have sole discretion to terminate its defense at any time. The City
shall not settle any third-party litigation of Project approvals without the Developer’s
consent, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned, or delayed
unless the Developer materially breaches this indemnification requirement.
3. The development of the property described herein shall be subject to the restrictions and
limitations set forth herein, which are in addition to the approved development standards
listed in the PDMC, and state and federal statutes now in force, or which hereafter may be
in force.
4. The CUP shall expire if construction of the said Project shall not commence within 24
months from the date of final approval, or a certificate of occupancy is issued for the
structure, unless an extension of time is granted by the Palm Desert Planning
Commission; otherwise, said approval shall become null, void, and of no effect
whatsoever.
Page 16 of 51
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2840
7
5. The approved CUP shall only be modified with written City approval per PDMC Chapter
25.72.050. Any proposed changes to this CUP will require an amendment to the
application, which may result in a new public hearing.
6. This approval authorizes the establishment of a 2,400-square-foot religious institution
within the existing commercial space located within in Suite 102 of Building C at 73726
Alessandro Drive.
7. The use shall operate according to the hours specified in the approved Statement of
Operations on file with the Department of Development Services and attached hereto as
Exhibit "B" of this Resolution. Any changes to the hours of operation must be reviewed
and approved by the Planning Division, and may require review and approval by the
ARC, Planning Commission, and/or City Council.
8. The teaching room shall be used for religious services during the hours specified in the
approved Statement of Operations on file with the Department of Development Services
and attached hereto as Exhibit “B” of this Resolution. The teaching room shall not be
used outside the approved hours of operation.
9. The maximum attendance shall be limited to 50 seats at any single time. Requests to
increase the allowed attendance will require an amendment to the Conditional Use
Permit.
10. All construction documentation shall be coordinated for consistency, including, but not
limited to, architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, landscape and
irrigation, grading, and street improvement plans. All such plans shall be consistent with
the approved entitlement plans on file with the Development Services Department.
11. The Applicant shall execute a written acknowledgment to the Planning Division stating
acceptance of and compliance with all the Conditions of Approval of Resolution No. 2840
for CUP23-0006 and that the plans submitted are in compliance with the Conditions of
Approval. No modifications shall be made to said plans without written approval from the
appropriate decision-making body.
12. Prior to the issuance of a building permit for construction of any use or structure
contemplated by this approval, the Applicant shall first obtain permits and or clearance
from the following agencies:
Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD)
Public Works Department
Fire Department
Building and Safety Division
Evidence of said permit or clearance from the above agencies shall be presented to the
Building & Safety Division at the time of issuance of a building permit for the use
contemplated herewith.
Page 17 of 51
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2840
8
13. The Applicant or any successor in interest shall comply with all applicable local, state,
and federal laws and regulations.
14. A copy of the herein-listed Conditions of Approval shall be included in the construction
documentation package for the Project, which shall be continuously maintained on-site
during Project construction.
15. This approval does not include approval of any new exterior signage. New exterior
signage shall be submitted to the City for review and approval and comply with Chapter
25.56 of the PDMC at all times.
16. The Applicant shall provide payment for filing fees for the Notice of Exemption within five
(5) days of project approval.
BUILDING AND SAFETY DIVISION:
17. Any alteration or addition to the existing floor plan layout, use of areas, or occupancy will
require a tenant improvement building permit.
18. The Applicant shall coordinate directly with:
Riverside County Fire Marshall’s Office
CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department
Main: (760) 863-8886
77933 Las Montañas Road, Suite 201
Palm Desert, CA 92211
END OF CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
Page 18 of 51
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2840
9
EXHIBIT “B”
APPROVED EXHIBITS
Page 19 of 51
C I T Y O F P A L M D E S E R T
73-510 FRED WARING DRIVE
PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA 92260-2578
TEL: 760-346-0611
INFO@CITYOFPALMDESERT.ORG
CITY OF PALM DESERT
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
CASE NO. CUP23-0006
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD BEFORE THE PLANNING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, TO REVIEW A REQUEST BY PHILLIP
GARZA FOR THE ADOPTION OF A NOTICE OF EXEMPTION PURSUANT TO THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) AND APPROVAL OF A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT (CUP) TO
ESTABLISH A PLACE OF WORSHIP WITHIN AN EXISTING COMMERCIAL SUITE LOCATED AT 73726
ALESSANDRO DRIVE, SUITE 102
The City of Palm Desert (City), in its capacity as the Lead Agency for this project under the CEQA, finds that
the proposed project is categorically exempt under Article 19 Section 15301 Existing Facilities (Class 1) of the
CEQA Guidelines; therefore, no further environmental review is necessary, and that a Notice of Exemption
can be adopted as part of this project.
PROJECT LOCATION/DESCRIPTION:
PROJECT LOCATION: 73726 Alessandro Drive, Suite 102 (APN 627-171-021)
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The project proposes to establish a 2,480-square-foot place of worship within an
existing commercial suite located at 73726 Alessandro Drive, Suite 102. Fresh Fire World Ministries will
operate the place of worship.
PUBLIC HEARING: NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Palm Desert,
California, will hold a Public Hearing at its meeting on August 15, 2023. The Planning Commission meeting
begins at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber at 73510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, California. Pursuant to
Assembly Bill 2449, this meeting may be conducted as a hybrid meeting allowing public access via
teleconference or in person. Options for remote participation will be listed on the Posted Agenda for the meeting
at: https://www.palmdesert.gov/our-city/committees-and-commissions/commission-information.
PUBLIC REVIEW: The plans and related documents are available for public review Monday through Friday
from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. by contacting the project planner, Anna Dan. Please submit written comments to
the Planning Division. If any group challenges the action in court, issues raised may be limited to only those
issues raised at the public hearing described in this notice or in written correspondence at or prior to the
Planning Commission hearing. All comments and any questions should be directed to:
Anna Dan, Associate Planner
City of Palm Desert
73510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, CA 92260
(760) 3466-0611, Extension 309
adan@palmdesert.gov
PUBLISH: THE DESERT SUN RICHARD D. CANNONE, AICP, SECRETARY
AUGUST 4, 2023 PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION
Page 20 of 51
Notice of Exemption FORM “B”
NOTICE OF EXEMPTION
TO:
Office of Planning and Research
P. O. Box 3044, Room 113
Sacramento, CA 95812-3044
FROM: City of Palm Desert
73-510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, CA 92260
Clerk of the Board of Supervisors
or
County Clerk
County of: Riverside
2724 Gateway Dr, Riverside,
CA 92507
1. Project Title: CUP23-0006
2. Project Applicant: Philip Garza
3. Project Location – Identify street address and
cross streets or attach a map showing project
site (preferably a USGS 15’ or 7 1/2’
topographical map identified by quadrangle
name):
73726 Alessandro Drive, Suite 102 in Palm Desert in
Riverside County. Cross streets are Alessandro Drive
and San Juan Avenue.
4. (a) Project Location – City: Palm Desert (b) Project Location – County: Riverside
5. Description of nature, purpose, and
beneficiaries of Project:
The Applicant, Philip Garza, requests to establish a
2,400 square-foot place of worship (Church) within an
existing suite in an existing office building. The Church
will be operated by Fresh Fire Worldwide Ministries.
6. Name of Public Agency approving project: City of Palm Desert
7. Name of Person or Agency undertaking the
project, including any person undertaking an
activity that receives financial assistance
from the Public Agency as part of the activity
or the person receiving a lease, permit,
license, certificate, or other entitlement of use
from the Public Agency as part of the activity:
Philip Garza
8. Exempt status: (check one)
(a) Ministerial project. (Pub. Res. Code § 21080(b)(1); State CEQA
Guidelines § 15268)
(b) Not a project.
(c) Emergency Project. (Pub. Res. Code § 21080(b)(4); State CEQA
Guidelines § 15269(b),(c))
(d) Categorical Exemption.
State type and section
number:
State CEQA Guidelines §15301 – “Class 1 – Existing
Facilities”
(e) Declared Emergency. (Pub. Res. Code § 21080(b)(3); State CEQA
Guidelines § 15269(a))
(f) Statutory Exemption.
State Code section number:
(g) Other. Explanation:
9. Reason why project was exempt: This Project is exempt from CEQA per Section 1503
of the CEQA Guidelines as the project is a Class 1
Page 21 of 51
Notice of Exemption FORM “B”
Exemption for Existing Facilities. The Project consists
of minor interior improvements to an existing structure
that will not result in any additional square footage.
The project is consistent with the City’s General Plan
and applicable zoning regulations. The site is serviced
by the appropriate utilities and would not result in
significant negative impacts on traffic, noise, air
quality or water quality.
10. Lead Agency Contact Person: Anna Dan, Associate Planner
Telephone: (760) 346-0611
11. If filed by applicant: Attach Preliminary Exemption Assessment (Form “A”) before filing.
12. Has a Notice of Exemption been filed by the public agency approving the project? Yes No
13. Was a public hearing held by the lead agency to consider the exemption? Yes No
If yes, the date of the public hearing was: July 18, 2023
Signature: Anna Dan Date: August 15, 2023
Title: Associate Planner
Signed by Lead Agency Signed by Applicant
Date Received for Filing:
(Clerk Stamp Here)
Authority cited: Sections 21083 and 21100, Public Resources Code.
Reference: Sections 21108, 21152, and 21152.1, Public Resources Code.
Page 22 of 51
All services last up to one hour, with follow-up meetings and gatherings lasting an additional
1-2 hours.
**
*
Page 23 of 51
Address: 73726 Alessandro Dr.
Suite 102, Palm Desert, CA 92260
APN: 627-171-023
Zoning: DE-O
Lot Area: 0.47 acres
Total Project Area: 2,480 sf
Gallery Area: 1,800 sf
Building A Total Area: 6,320 sf
Building B Total Area: 10,122 sf
Building C Total Area: 18,182 sf
Applicant Contact Informa�on: Property Owner Contact Informa�on:
Phillip Garza Tahoma I, LLC
760.501.5792 JWA, LLC
Philgarza642@gmail.com ABA Palm Desert, LLC
C/O Baxley Proper�es
760.773.3310
Project
Area
Suite
102
Page 24 of 51
Page 25 of 51
Suite:
A1
73710 Alessandro Dr. (A)
Use:
Cosmetic Surgery
Institute
Usable Square footage:
6,320
Hours:
9:00-4:30 M-TH
9:00-2:00 F
73726 Alessandro Dr. (C)
73712 Alessandro Dr. (B)
Suite:
B1
Use:
Desert Serenity
Float
Usable Square footage:
2,500
Hours:
10:00-4:00 W-TH
12:00-6:00 F
10:00-6:00 SAT
12:00-6:00 SUN
B2 Path Pilates 2,500 9:00-5:00 M, W
8:00-5:30 TUES,W
9:00-1:00 F
9:00-11:00 SAT, SUN
B3 Desert Valley
Nursing
2,500 9:00-4:00 M-TH
B4 Baxley Properties
Inc.
2,500 8:30-4:30 M-F
Page 26 of 51
Page 1 of 6
CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: August 15, 2023
PREPARED BY: Anna Dan, Associate Planner
REQUEST: CONSIDERATION TO ADOPT A NOTICE OF EXEMPTION
PURSUANT TO THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
(CEQA) AND APPROVAL OF AN ADMINISTRATIVE USE PERMIT
(AUP) TO ESTABLISH A 2,030-SQUARE-FOOT BAR/LOUNGE WITH
A 304-SQUARE-FOOT OUTDOOR PATIO, WITHIN AN EXISTING
COMMERCIAL SUITE LOCATED AT 72221 HIGHWAY 111, SUITE
110
RECOMMENDATION:
Waive further reading and adopt Planning Commission Resolution No. 2839 to:
1. Conduct a public hearing and receive public testimony.
2. Adopt a Notice of Exemption for a Class 1 Categorical Exemption in accordance with
CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, Existing Facilities.
3. Approve AUP23-0009 to establish a 2,030-square-foot bar/lounge with a 304-square-foot
outdoor patio, within an existing commercial suite located at 72221 Highway 111, Suite
110 subject to findings and conditions.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The proposed project is a request by Adam Gilbert, Applicant, to approve an Administrative
Use Permit (AUP) to establish a 2,030-square-foot bar/lounge with a 304-square-foot outdoor
patio (Bar) at 72221 Highway 111, Suite 110, and find that the project is exempt from further
CEQA review. The proposed use is located within an existing single-story, multi-tenant
commercial building and will be operated by Adults Only Palm Desert. The project will require
some minor tenant improvements, such as adding an outdoor patio, but no structural
modifications to the building are proposed. The bar/lounge will operate in the evenings,
closing at 12:00 a.m. on weekdays and 2 a.m. on weekends.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS:
a) Property Description: The project site is an existing multi-tenant commercial building
located on the northwest corner of Highway 111 and Fred Waring Drive. The site is
comprised of one (1) parcel totaling 1.34 acres containing one (1) single-story building
with a combined floor area of 15,946 square feet (sf). The parcel and building were
approved in 1979 as part of the “Las Sombras” development via Development Plan
01-78 and Variance 01-78, which established a commercial center with a parking
reduction variance on the northwest corner of Fred Waring Drive and Highway 111 for
five (5) parcels and five (5) buildings. Construction of the buildings was completed in
1980. The project parcel has an existing parking lot with a total of fifty-nine (59)
spaces, accessible from Fred Waring Drive and Painters Path, and has access to
Page 27 of 51
City of Palm Desert
Case No. AUP23-0009 Adults Only Palm Desert
Page 2 of 6
approximately 508 total spaces from adjoining parcels within the commercial center.
The building currently has seven (7) suites, four (4) of which are occupied by a
restaurant, tattoo shop, dog grooming business, and private gym. The proposed bar
will be located within Suite 110 at the eastern end of the building, adjacent to an
existing restaurant. The suite is 2,030 sf and was previously occupied by a private
gym.
The rest of the commercial center has four (4) additional buildings, including one (1)
multi-tenant building and three (3) single-tenant buildings that each have a restaurant.
On July 18, 2023, The Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 2838 approving
Case No. Use Determination (UD)23-0001, deeming the subject bar/lounge a
permitted use in the PC-2 zoning district subject to an AUP referred to the Planning
Commission. This determination was made due to similarities between bar/lounge
uses and restaurant uses. Staff finds the currently proposed bar/lounge by the
Applicant complies with the determination made by UD 23-0001, the intent and
objectives of the applicable zoning requirements and is compatible with the
surrounding land uses with the conditions established in the approval.
b) Current Zoning & General Plan Land Use Designation:
Table 1 – Adjacent Land Use and Designations
Existing Uses General Plan Zoning
Project Site Vacant Suburban Retail Center Resort Commercial
Center (PC-4)
North Vacant Suburban Retail Center Resort Commercial
Center (PC-4)
South Restaurant/Commercial Suburban Retail Center Resort Commercial
Center (PC-4)
East Commercial Regional Retail Regional Commercial
Center (PC-3)
West Professional Office Employment Center District Commercial
Center (PC-2)
The proposed use is located on a parcel with a pending Change of Zone (CZ23-0001)
application to change the zoning from Resort Commercial Center (PC-4) to District
Commercial Center (PC-2), which is currently scheduled for City Council consideration on
August 24, 2023, at a public hearing. Approval of this AUP would allow for the operation of a
bar/lounge within the PC-2 zoning district, consistent with Planning Commission Resolution
No. 2838 for Case No. UD23-0001.
The only modifications proposed to the exterior of the building is the addition of a new 304-
square-foot outdoor, uncovered patio with a 3-foot-tall wrought iron fence.
Project Description/Analysis:
The project is an AUP request by Adam Gilbert to establish a bar/lounge within an existing
single-story, multi-tenant building located at 72221 Highway 111, Suite 110. The suite is
located on the northeastern end of the project boundary. The use is a full-time bar and
entertainment venue that will be open to the public, and also available for private events. The
Page 28 of 51
City of Palm Desert
Case No. AUP23-0009 Adults Only Palm Desert
Page 3 of 6
proposed floor plan of the bar/lounge includes a lobby, a main dining area with fixed and bar
seating, an outdoor patio, a kitchen, and restrooms. The bar/lounge will serve bar food items
and offer regular entertainment, such as live music, theater performances, and art displays.
The staff will consist of five (5) to eight (8) individuals, including a manager, bartenders,
barbacks, and security guards.
Table 2 below outlines the hours of operations for the bar/lounge. The establishment will
operate on Tuesday to Thursday from 5:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m., Friday to Saturday from 5:00
p.m. to 2:00 a.m., and Sundays from 12:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. The bar/lounge will be closed
on Mondays. Any amendments to the proposed hours of operation is subject to the discretion
of the Zoning Administrator and Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control and shall require
a modification of the approved conditions. After hours use of the facility, other than for routine
clean-up maintenance, and deliveries will not be permitted.
Table 2 – Proposed Hours of Operation
Day of the Week Hours of Operation
Tuesday—Thursday 5:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.
Friday—Saturday 5:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.
Sunday 12:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.
Approval of an AUP is subject to the findings listed under PDMC 25.64.040. As part of the
AUP review process, staff and the Planning Commission will review the project and make
findings based on the following:
A. Land Use Compatibility
The majority of businesses located on the project site are restaurants, professional
offices, and personal services. These businesses operate on weekdays during
daytime hours with some restaurants open until 10:00 p.m. or 11:00 p.m. Despite the
bar having a different land use intensity, its operations are similar to that of a
restaurant. The bar/lounge does offer regular live entertainment, and it will be subject
to an Entertainment Site Plan as regulated by PDMC 5.100.030. Most businesses can
also offer entertainment under the same plan, which is subject to regulations such as
the Noise Ordinance.
B. Site Plan
The property is currently suitable for the intended use, as it has the appropriate size,
shape, topography, location, and utilities. The bar/lounge will be situated entirely within
one suite in an existing commercial building, and the addition of a 304-square-foot
uncovered, outdoor patio. Access to the bar/lounge is available from two different
entrances off Painters Path and Fred Waring Drive.
C. Parking
According to the regulations of PDMC 25.46.040, the proposed bar/lounge will require
a total of nineteen (19) parking spaces. The interpretation is that the parking
requirement should be similar to that of a restaurant, which requires eight (8) parking
spaces per 1,000 square feet. With a total floor area of 2,334-square-feet, the
bar/lounge requires nineteen (19) spaces. The suite has access to 508 parking spaces
within the center. Staff does not anticipate the bar/lounge will cause a parking shortage
Page 29 of 51
City of Palm Desert
Case No. AUP23-0009 Adults Only Palm Desert
Page 4 of 6
since it operates during hours when most other businesses in the center are closed.
The remaining open businesses are restaurants, but their varying service intensities
should not cause any significant conflicts.
Public Input:
Public noticing was conducted for the August 15, 2023, Commission meeting in accordance
with the requirements of PDMC Section 25.60.060 and Government Code Sections 65090 to
65094. A public hearing notice was published a minimum of ten (10) days prior to the hearing
date on Friday, August 4, 2023, in The Desert Sun newspaper. Notices were mailed to all
property owners within 300 feet of the project site for a total of fourteen (14) public hearing
notices mailed. No comments have been received at the time of writing this report.
Environment Review:
City staff has reviewed the project in accordance with CEQA and determined that the project
is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section 15301 Existing Facilities (Class 1)
of the State CEQA Guidelines. Class 1 applies to projects involving the operation, repair,
maintenance, permitting, leasing, licensing, or minor alteration of existing public or private
structures, facilities, mechanical equipment, or topographical features, involving negligible or
no expansion of existing or former use. The project consists of a bar/lounge with a lobby, a
main dining area with fixed and bar seating, an outdoor patio, a kitchen, and restrooms. The
proposed bar/lounge would require minor interior improvements and the construction of an
outdoor patio. The project will not involve any further expansion of the existing building. The
project is consistent with the Suburban Retail Center General Plan designation, as well as
the District Commercial Center zoning designation. Pursuant to Section 15300.2 of the CEQA
Guidelines, a Class 1 exception may not be used if the project falls into any exceptions:
1. Location: The Project qualifies as a Class 1 exemption, which is not listed as one
of the classes under 15300.2 (A). The Project is not located on a site where it may
have an adverse impact on an environmental resource of hazardous or critical concern
where designated, precisely mapped, and officially adopted pursuant to law by federal,
state, or local agencies. The Project site will not impact designated environmental or
biological resources as it is not located within a conservation area as identified by the
(MSHCP).
2. Cumulative Impact: The Project will not have a cumulative impact on the
environment. The proposal does not propose any structural changes to the site which
would result in increased square footage or a demand for more resources. The only
addition is an outdoor, uncovered patio which consists of flatwork. There is sufficient
parking on the project site to accommodate the new use and to avoid vehicular
congestion.
3. Significant Effect: There are no unusual circumstances identified in relation to the
proposed use or Project site which would result in a significant impact on the
environment. The Project site is not located within a flood zone per the latest FEMA
Flood Zone Maps. The Project site is located within a Very High area per Fire Hazard
Severity Zone maps depicted in Figure 8.5 on Page 119 of the General Plan. The
nearest fire station is located less than ½ mile east of the project site. The project site
is not identified within an Alquist-Priolo Fault Zone per the latest maps on file with the
Page 30 of 51
City of Palm Desert
Case No. AUP23-0009 Adults Only Palm Desert
Page 5 of 6
California Department of Conservation; the nearest fault zone is the San Andreas
Fault located north of the Palm Desert City Limits
4. Scenic Highways: The Project site is not located within proximity of any officially
designated state Scenic Highway. The nearest officially designated scenic highway is
Highway 74, south of Highway 111, located less than 1 mile southeast of the site.
5. Hazardous Waste Site: The project site has not been identified as a hazardous
waste site per maps and databases provided by the California Department of Toxic
Substances Control (DTSC).
6. Historical Resources: The project site does not contain any structure or title that
would designate it as a historical resource. Therefore, the project will not cause a
substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource.
Findings of Approval:
In accordance with PDMC 25.72.050 (D), the following findings are required before granting
an Administrative Use Permit:
1. The proposed use is allowed within the applicable zoning district and complies with all
other applicable provisions of this zoning code, municipal code, general plan, and any
applicable specific plans or City regulations/standards.
The subject property has a zoning designation of Resort Commercial Center (PC-4) with
pending approval of a change of zone to District Commercial Center (PC-2) by City
Council. The Planning Commission approved UD23-0001 deeming the subject bar/lounge
is similar to a restaurant and a permitted use in the PC-2 zone subject to an Administrative
Use Permit. The site is developed with a single-story, multi-tenant commercial building
with seven (7) suites, four (4) of which are occupied by a restaurant, tattoo shop, dog
grooming business, and private gym. The surrounding uses consist of restaurants and
personal services uses. The existing site complies with the applicable zoning code
requirements for height, setbacks, land use compatibility, parking, and lot coverage. The
Los Sombras center is designed for reciprocal parking with approximately 508 total
parking spaces, and the project parcel has fifty-nine (59) of those spaces. Under the
PDMC Table 25.46-1 Parking Schedule, restaurants require (8) parking spaces per 1,000
sq. ft. Therefore, there is a demand for nineteen (19) parking spaces. The proposed use
would have minimal impacts on parking giving the availability of spaces and the staggered
hours of operations.
The subject property is designated Suburban Retail Center per the General Plan Land
Use Element. The Suburban Retail Center land use designation allows big box retail and
commercial uses. The proposed use of a bar/lounge is compatible with the other existing
restaurant, commercial, and personal services uses within the area. The property does
not have any applicable specific plans or any other City regulations/standards.
2. The site is physically suited for the type, density, and intensity of the proposed use,
including access, utilities, and the absence of physical constraints, and can be conditioned
to meet all related performance criteria and development standards.
Page 31 of 51
City of Palm Desert
Case No. AUP23-0009 Adults Only Palm Desert
Page 6 of 6
The site is consistent with the purpose and intent of the City’s Zoning Ordinance. The
project is located within an existing commercial building with sufficient parking. The site
has been previously designed to meet access, utilities, setbacks, lot coverage, building
height, land use, and parking requirements for nonresidential uses. The addition of a
bar/lounge would be similar to the use intensity of a restaurant, except for later hours of
operation. The proposed project does not pose a conflict regarding land use and can be
conditioned to meet all related performance criteria and development standards within the
City’s Zoning Ordinance.
3. Granting the permit would not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety,
convenience, or welfare, or materially injurious to persons, property, or improvements in
the vicinity in which the project is located.
The proposed use will operate entirely within the confines of an existing commercial suite
within an existing commercial building and will not result in any changes to the exterior or
surrounding properties except for a new outdoor patio that will require minimal alterations.
The project is regulated by the conditions set forth in this AUP and the PDMC which
regulates public nuisances such as noise. Therefore, the use would not be detrimental to
the public interest, health, safety, welfare, and materially injurious to properties in the
vicinity.
REVIEWED BY:
Department Director: Richard Cannone, AICP
Principal Planner Nick Melloni, AICP
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Draft Planning Commission Resolution No. 2839
2. Public Hearing Notice
3. CEQA Notice of Exemption
4. Statement of Use
5. Project Plans
Page 32 of 51
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2839
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF PALM
DESERT, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING A NOTICE OF EXEMPTION
PURSUANT TO THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
ACT (CEQA) AND APPROVAL OF AN ADMINISTRATIVE USE PERMIT
(AUP) TO ESTABLISH A 2,030-SQUARE-FOOT BAR/LOUNGE WITH A 304-
SQUARE-FOOT OUTDOOR PATIO AT 72221 HIGHWAY 111, SUITE 110
CASE NO. AUP23-0009
WHEREAS, Adam Gilbert (“Applicant”), submitted an AUP application to establish a
new 2,030-square-foot bar/lounge with a 304-square-foot outdoor patio located at 72221
Highway 111, Suite 110 (“Project”); and
WHEREAS, the project site is currently within the Resort Planned Commercial (PC-4)
zoning designation and is designated Suburban Retail Center by the Palm Desert General
Plan; and
WHEREAS, the project site is subject to a pending Change of Zone (Planning Case
No. CZ23-0001) to change the zoning designation of the project site from PC-4 to District
Planned Commercial (PC-2); and
WHEREAS, on July 18, 2023, the Planning Commission of the City of Palm Desert
adopted Resolution No. 2838, adopting a Use Determination (Planning Case No. UD23-0001)
finding that bars/lounges are similar to restaurant land uses within the PC-2 zoning
designation and may be allowable by AUP; and
WHEREAS, the Zoning Administrator is the designated approval authority for the
Administrative Use Permit but may refer an application to the Planning Commission for review
and approval; and,
WHEREAS, the proposed Project conforms to the General plan land use designation
of the Suburban Retail Center and development standards listed in the City’s Zoning
Ordinance for the PC-2 zoning district; and
WHEREAS, the proposed Project is compatible with the land uses in the vicinity of the
location on Fred Waring Drive and Painters Path, and conforms to the zoning designation
and overlay district; and
WHEREAS, under Section 21067 of the Public Resources Code, Section 15367 of the
State CEQA Guidelines (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 14, § 15000 et seq.), and the City of Palm
Desert’s (“City’s”) Local CEQA Guidelines, the City is the lead agency for the Project; and
WHEREAS, the Project has complied with the requirements of the "City of Palm Desert
Procedure for Implementation of CEQA” Resolution No. 2019-41, in that the Director of
Development Services has determined that the Project will not have a foreseeable significant
impact on the environment and that the Project is eligible for an exemption pursuant to
Section 15061(b)(3) General Rule of the CEQA Guidelines, and is not subject to any
Page 33 of 51
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2839
2
exceptions as identified in CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2; therefore, no further
environmental review is necessary at this time; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Palm Desert, California, did on
the 15th day of August 2023, hold a duly noticed public hearing to consider the request by the
Applicant for approval of the above-noted Project request; and
WHEREAS, at the said public hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimony and
arguments, if any, of all interested persons desiring to be heard, the Planning Commission
did find the following facts and reasons, which are outlined in the staff report, exist to justify
approval of said request:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Planning Commission of the City of
Palm Desert, California, as follows:
SECTION 1. Recitals. The Planning Commission hereby finds that the foregoing
recitals are true and correct and are incorporated herein as substantive findings of this
Resolution.
SECTION 2. Findings on Administrative Use Permit. Under PDMC Section 25.64.040(D),
the findings for the administrative use permit are the following:
1. The proposed use is allowed within the applicable zoning district and complies with all
other applicable provisions of this zoning code, municipal code, general plan, and any
applicable specific plans or City regulations/standards.
The subject property has a zoning designation of Resort Commercial Center (PC-4) with
pending approval of a change of zone to District Commercial Center (PC-2) by City
Council. The Planning Commission approved UD23-0001 deeming the subject bar/lounge
is similar to a restaurant and a permitted use in the PC-2 zone subject to an Administrative
Use Permit. The site is developed with a single-story, multi-tenant commercial building
with seven (7) suites, four (4) of which are occupied by a restaurant, tattoo shop, dog
grooming business, and private gym. The surrounding uses consist of restaurants and
personal services uses. The existing site complies with the applicable zoning code
requirements for height, setbacks, land use compatibility, parking, and lot coverage. The
Los Sombras center is designed for reciprocal parking with approximately 508 total
parking spaces, and the project parcel has 59 of those spaces. Under the PDMC Table
25.46-1 Parking Schedule, restaurants require 8 parking spaces per 1,000 sq. ft.
Therefore, there is a demand for 19 parking spaces. The proposed use would have
minimal impacts on parking given the availability of spaces and the staggered hours of
operations.
The subject property is designated Suburban Retail Center per the General Plan Land
Use Element. The Suburban Retail Center land use designation allows big box retail and
commercial uses. The proposed use of a bar/lounge is compatible with the other existing
restaurant, commercial, and personal services uses within the area. The property does
not have any applicable specific plans or any other City regulations/standards.
Page 34 of 51
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2839
3
2. The site is physically suited for the type, density, and intensity of the proposed use,
including access, utilities, and the absence of physical constraints, and can be conditioned
to meet all related performance criteria and development standards.
The site is consistent with the purpose and intent of the City’s Zoning Ordinance. The
project is located within an existing commercial building with sufficient parking. The site
has been previously designed to meet access, utilities, setbacks, lot coverage, building
height, land use, and parking requirements for nonresidential uses. The addition of a
bar/lounge would be similar to the use intensity of a restaurant, except for later hours of
operation. The proposed project does not pose a conflict regarding land use and can be
conditioned to meet all related performance criteria and development standards within the
City’s Zoning Ordinance.
3. Granting the permit would not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety,
convenience, or welfare, or materially injurious to persons, property, or improvements in
the vicinity in which the project is located.
The proposed use will operate within the confines of an existing commercial building and
will not result in any changes to the exterior or surrounding properties except for a new
outdoor patio that will require minimal alterations. The project is regulated by the
conditions set forth in this AUP and the PDMC which regulates public nuisances such as
noise. Therefore, the use would not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, or
welfare, and will not be materially injurious to properties in the vicinity.
SECTION 3. CEQA. The application has complied with the requirements of the “City
of Palm Desert Procedure for Implementation of CEQA” Resolution No. 2019-41, in that the
Planning Commission finds that the Project is exempt from CEQA per Section 15301 of the
State CEQA guidelines as the Project is a Class 1 Existing Facilities. Class 1 is intended for
projects involving the operation, repair, maintenance, permitting, leasing, licensing, or minor
alteration of existing public or private structures, facilities, mechanical equipment, or
topographical features, involving negligible or no expansion of existing or former use. The
proposed bar/lounge would involve minor interior improvements and the addition of a new
outdoor, uncovered patio. As analyzed, the Project involves the establishment of a 2,030-
square-foot bar/lounge with a 304-square-foot outdoor patio at an existing commercial suite.
The proposed Project complies with the development standards within the PC-2 zoning
designation and does not result in additional building square footage. The Project does
anticipate minor interior alterations such as interior partitions, plumbing, and electrical
conveyances to bring the suite up to California Building Code standards.
Additionally, the Project is not subject to any of the exceptions for categorical exemptions
identified in CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2:
1) The Project qualifies as a Class 1 exemption, which is not listed as one of the classes
under 15300.2 (A). The Project is not located on a site where it may have an adverse
impact on an environmental resource of hazardous or critical concern where
designated, precisely mapped, and officially adopted pursuant to law by federal, state,
or local agencies. The Project site will not impact designated environmental or
Page 35 of 51
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2839
4
biological resources as it is not located within a conservation area as identified by the
(MSHCP).
2) The Project will not have a cumulative impact on the environment. The Project will not
have a cumulative impact on the environment. The proposal does not propose any
structural changes to the site which would result in increased square footage or a
demand for more resources. The only addition is an outdoor, uncovered patio which
consists of flatwork. There is sufficient parking on the project site to accommodate
the new use and to avoid vehicular congestion.
3) There are no unusual circumstances identified in relation to the proposed use or
Project site which would result in a significant impact on the environment. The Project
site is not located within a flood zone per the latest FEMA Flood Zone Maps. The
Project site is not located within a flood zone per the latest FEMA Flood Zone Maps.
The Project site is located within a Very High area per Fire Hazard Severity Zone
maps depicted in Figure 8.5 on Page 119 of the General Plan. The nearest fire station
is located less than ½ mile east of the project site. The project site is not identified
within an Alquist-Priolo Fault Zone per the latest maps on file with the California
Department of Conservation; the nearest fault zone is the San Andreas Fault located
north of the Palm Desert City Limits.
4) The Project site is not located within proximity of any officially designated state Scenic
Highway. The nearest officially designated scenic highway is Highway 74, south of
Highway 111, located less than 1 mile southeast of the site.
5) Hazardous Waste Site: The Project site has not been identified as a hazardous waste
site per maps and databases provided by the California Department of Toxic
Substances Control (DTSC).
6) The Project site does not contain any structure or title that would designate it as a
historical resource. Therefore, the project will not cause a substantial adverse change
in the significance of a historical resource.
SECTION 4. Project Approval. The Planning Commission hereby recommends
approval of AUP23-0009; and
SECTION 5. Custodian of Records. The documents and materials that constitute the
record of proceedings on which these findings are based are located at the City’s office at
73510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92260. Richard D. Cannone, AICP, the Secretary
to the Palm Desert Planning Commission, is the custodian of the record of proceedings.
SECTION 6. Execution of Resolution. The Chairperson of the Planning Commission
signs this Resolution, and the Secretary to the Commission shall attest and certify to the
passage and adoption thereof.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Planning Commission of the City of
Palm Desert, California, as follows:
Page 36 of 51
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2839
5
1. That the above recitations are true and correct and constitute the findings for
approval of the Planning Commission in this case.
2. That the Planning Commission does hereby approve Case No. AUP23-0009.
ADOPTED ON August 15, 2023.
JOSEPH PRADETTO
CHAIRPERSON
ATTEST:
RICHARD D. CANNONE, AICP
SECRETARY
I, Richard D. Cannone, AICP, Secretary of the City of Palm Desert, hereby certify that
Resolution No. 2839 is a full, true, and correct copy, and was duly adopted at a regular
meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Palm Desert on August 15, 2023, by the
following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
RECUSED:
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the official seal of the City
of Palm Desert, California, on August ____, 2023.
RICHARD D. CANNONE, AICP
SECRETARY
Page 37 of 51
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2839
6
EXHIBIT “A’
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
CASE NO. AUP23-0009
PLANNING DIVISION:
1. The development of the property shall conform substantially with the approved plans and
exhibits attached as Exhibit B of this Resolution, except as modified by the following
conditions. Any variation from the approved plans must be reviewed and approved by
the Planning Division prior to building permit issuance and may require review and
approval by the ARC, Planning Commission, and/or City Council.
2. This approval is contingent upon the final approval of Change of Zone 23-0001.
3. The Applicant agrees that in the event of any administrative, legal, or equitable action
instituted by a third party challenging the validity of any of the procedures leading to the
adoption of these Project Approvals for the Project, or the Project Approvals themselves,
the Developer and City each shall have the right, in their sole discretion, to elect whether
or not to defend such action. The Developer, at its sole expense, shall defend, indemnify,
and hold harmless the City (including its agents, officers, and employees) from any such
action, claim, or proceeding with counsel chosen by the City, subject to the Developer’s
approval of counsel, which shall not be unreasonably denied, and at the Developer’s sole
expense. If the City is aware of such an action or proceeding, it shall promptly notify the
Developer and cooperate in the defense. The Developer, upon such notification, shall
deposit with City sufficient funds in the judgment of the City Finance Director to cover the
expense of defending such action without any offset or claim against said deposit to
assure that the City expends no City funds. If both Parties elect to defend, the Parties
hereby agree to affirmatively cooperate in defending said action and to execute a joint
defense and confidentiality agreement in order to share and protect the information under
the joint defense privilege recognized under applicable law. As part of the cooperation in
defending an action, City and Developer shall coordinate their defense in order to make
the most efficient use of legal counsel and to share and protect information. Developer
and City shall each have sole discretion to terminate its defense at any time. The City
shall not settle any third-party litigation of Project approvals without the Developer’s
consent, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned, or delayed
unless the Developer materially breaches this indemnification requirement.
4. The development of the property described herein shall be subject to the restrictions and
limitations set forth herein, which are in addition to the approved development standards
listed in the PDMC, and state and federal statutes now in force, or which hereafter may be
in force.
5. The AUP shall expire if construction of the said Project shall not commence within 24
months from the date of final approval unless an extension of time is granted by the Palm
Desert Planning Commission; otherwise, said approval shall become null, void, and of
no effect whatsoever.
Page 38 of 51
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2839
7
6. All construction documentation shall be coordinated for consistency, including, but not
limited to, architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, landscape and
irrigation, grading, and street improvement plans. All such plans shall be consistent with
the approved entitlement plans on file with the Development Services Department.
7. The approved AUP shall only be modified with written City approval per PDMC Chapter
25.64.040. Any proposed changes to this AUP will require an amendment to the
application, which may require review and approval by the ARC, Planning Commission,
and/or City Council.
8. This approval authorizes the operation of a 2,030-square-foot bar/lounge with seating
with a 304-square-foot outdoor patio with seating which shall operate at 72221 Highway
111, Suite 110.
9. The sale of alcoholic beverages for consumption off the premises is strictly prohibited.
10. The applicant shall submit a California Penal Code § 602 form prior to the approval of a
business license application and shall renew the form on an annual basis.
11. The use shall operate according to the hours specified in the approved Statement of
Operations attached as Exhibit B of this Resolution. Any amendments to the proposed
hours of operation is subject to the discretion of the Zoning Administrator and Department
of Alcoholic Beverage Control and shall require a modification of the approved
conditions. After-hours use of the facility, other than for routine clean-up maintenance,
and deliveries will not be permitted.
12. The Applicant shall execute a written acknowledgment to the Planning Division stating
acceptance of and compliance with all the Conditions of Approval of Resolution No. 2839
for AUP23-0009 and that the plans submitted are in compliance with the Conditions of
Approval. No modifications shall be made to said plans without written approval from the
appropriate decision-making body.
13. Prior to the issuance of a building permit for the construction of any use or structure
contemplated by this approval, the Applicant shall first obtain permits and or clearance
from the following agencies:
Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD)
Public Works Department
Fire Department
Building and Safety Division
California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control
Riverside County Department of Health
Evidence of said permit or clearance from the above agencies shall be presented to the
Building & Safety Division at the time of issuance of a building permit for the use
contemplated herewith.
Page 39 of 51
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2839
8
14. A copy of the herein-listed Conditions of Approval shall be included in the construction
documentation package for the Project, which shall be continuously maintained on-site
during Project construction.
15. The Applicant shall comply with all rules and regulations of the California Department of
Alcoholic Beverage Control pertaining to the sale and consumption of alcohol.
16. Failure to comply with any of these conditions will result in the revocation of this permit
subject to PDMC 25.60.
17. Parking shall be provided in compliance with the Palm Desert Municipal Code (PDMC)
and to the satisfaction of the Department of Development Services. No variance from the
parking requirements has been requested or granted herein.
18. The Applicant shall comply with PDMC Chapter 9.24 for Noise Control Requirements.
No loud or disturbing music, sound, or noise shall be detectable from the exterior of the
premises.
19. All sound resulting from the business and/or live entertainment activities shall be
contained within the building in compliance with city noise regulations. No entertainment
activities shall be allowed on the building exterior. Outdoor music may be played on the
outdoor patio and shall comply with the Noise Control Requirements of PDMC 9.24. Any
outdoor music on the patio shall be turned off no later than 10:00 PM.
20. Prior to final occupancy, the Applicant shall submit an Entertainment Site Plan in
accordance with PDMC Section 5.100.030. The Entertainment Site Plan shall be
reviewed and approved by the Director of Development Services. In the event that the
submitted Entertainment Site Plan deviates from the approved documents specified in
this permit or complaints are received, the Director may impose additional conditions or
mitigation measures.
21. The Applicant shall remove litter from the premises, and adjacent public sidewalks and
parking lots daily, and shall keep the areas swept weekly to prevent debris buildup. Trash
cans shall be added and "No Littering" signs shall be posted on the premises.
22. The Applicant shall not permit any loitering on the premises or on property adjacent to
the premises.
23. Prior to the operation of any private event, the Applicant shall apply for a Special Event
Temporary Entertainment Permit pursuant to PDMC Section 5.100.020. The premises
shall not be used exclusively for private parties in which the general public is excluded.
24. Prior to final occupancy, the applicant shall submit a lighting plan and shall provide
nighttime lighting of the building exterior. The lighting shall be of sufficient illumination so
as to enable law enforcement personnel to identify a person.
Page 40 of 51
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2839
9
25. All new exterior lighting shall be fully shielded to prevent glare unless otherwise approved
by the Director of Development Services. The exterior light sources shall be oriented
away from the adjacent public right-of-way and residential properties. Lighting shall be
oriented to minimize upward glare and light trespass into the night sky to the greatest
extent feasible.
26. The requirements of Palm Desert Municipal Code Chapter 8.36 regarding smoking shall
be complied with at all times.
27. All permanent and temporary exterior signage shall comply with PDMC 25.56.
28. Only the front door shall be used for patron access. All other doors shall be equipped on
the inside with an automatic locking device and shall be kept closed at all times other
than to permit temporary access for delivery of supplies and trash removal. These doors
shall be solid.
29. Prior to final occupancy, the applicant shall submit a final security plan to the City for
review and acceptance by the Riverside County Sheriff's Department.
30. The Applicant shall provide payment for filing fees for the Notice of Exemption within five
(5) days of project approval.
BUILDING AND SAFETY DIVISION:
1. Any alteration or addition to the existing floor plan layout, use of areas, or occupancy
will require a tenant improvement building permit.
2. The Applicant shall coordinate directly with:
Riverside County Fire Marshall’s Office
CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department
Main: (760) 863-8886
77933 Las Montañas Road, Suite 201
Palm Desert, CA 92211
END OF CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
Page 41 of 51
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2839
10
EXHIBIT B
APPROVED PLANS AND EXHIBITS
Page 42 of 51
C I T Y O F P A L M D E S E R T
73-510 FRED WARING DRIVE
PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA 92260-2578
TEL: 760-346-0611
INFO@PALMDESERT.GOV
CITY OF PALM DESERT
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
CASE NO. AUP23-0009
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD BEFORE THE
PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, TO REVIEW A
REQUEST BY ADAM GILBERT FOR THE ADOPTION OF A NOTICE OF EXEMPTION
PURSUANT TO THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) AND APPROVAL
OF AN ADMINISTRATIVE USE PERMIT (AUP) TO ESTABLISH A 2,030-SQUARE-FOOT
BAR/LOUNGE WITHIN AN EXISTING COMMERCIAL SUITE LOCATED AT 72221 HIGHWAY
111, SUITE 110
The City of Palm Desert (City), in its capacity as the Lead Agency for this project under the CEQA,
finds that the proposed project is categorically exempt under Article 19 Section 15301 Existing
Facilities (Class 1) of the CEQA; therefore, no further environmental review is necessary, and that
a Notice of Exemption can be adopted as part of this project.
PROJECT LOCATION/DESCRIPTION:
PROJECT LOCATION: 72221 Highway 111, Suite 110 (APN 640-020-054)
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The project proposes to establish a new 2,030-square-foot bar/lounge
within an existing commercial suite located at 72221 Highway 111, Suite 110. The bar/lounge bar
will be operated by Adults Only Palm Desert.
PUBLIC HEARING: NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of
Palm Desert, California, will hold a Public Hearing at its meeting on August 15, 2023. The Planning
Commission meeting begins at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber at 73510 Fred Waring Drive,
Palm Desert, California. Pursuant to Assembly Bill 2449, this meeting may be conducted as a
hybrid meeting allowing public access via teleconference or in person. Options for remote
participation will be listed on the Posted Agenda for the meeting at:
https://www.palmdesert.gov/our-city/committees-and-commissions/commission-information.
PUBLIC REVIEW: The plans and related documents are available for public review Monday
through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. by contacting the project planner, Anna Dan. Please
submit written comments to the Planning Division. If any group challenges the action in court,
issues raised may be limited to only those issues raised at the public hearing described in this
notice or in written correspondence at or prior to the Planning Commission hearing. All comments
and any questions should be directed to:
Anna Dan, Associate Planner
City of Palm Desert
73-510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, CA 92260
(760) 776-0611, Extension 309
adan@palmdesert.gov
PUBLISH: THE DESERT SUN RICHARD D. CANNONE, AICP, SECRETARY
AUGUST 4, 2023 PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION
Page 43 of 51
Notice of Exemption FORM “B”
NOTICE OF EXEMPTION
TO:
Office of Planning and Research
P. O. Box 3044, Room 113
Sacramento, CA 95812-3044
FROM: City of Palm Desert
73-510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, CA 92260
Clerk of the Board of Supervisors
or
County Clerk
County of: Riverside
2724 Gateway Dr, Riverside,
CA 92507
1. Project Title: AUP23-0009
2. Project Applicant: Adam Gilbert
3. Project Location – Identify street address and
cross streets or attach a map showing project
site (preferably a USGS 15’ or 7 1/2’
topographical map identified by quadrangle
name):
72221 Highway 111 in Palm Desert in Riverside
County. Parcel 2 of PM 33614.
4. (a) Project Location – City: Palm Desert (b) Project Location – County: Riverside
5. Description of nature, purpose, and
beneficiaries of Project:
The Applicant, Adam Gilbert, requests to establish a
2,030 square-foot Bar/Lounge within an existing suite
in an existing commercial building. The Bar/Lounge
will be operated by Adults Only Palm Desert.
6. Name of Public Agency approving project: City of Palm Desert
7. Name of Person or Agency undertaking the
project, including any person undertaking an
activity that receives financial assistance
from the Public Agency as part of the activity
or the person receiving a lease, permit,
license, certificate, or other entitlement of use
from the Public Agency as part of the activity:
Adam Gilbert
8. Exempt status: (check one)
(a) Ministerial project. (Pub. Res. Code § 21080(b)(1); State CEQA
Guidelines § 15268)
(b) Not a project.
(c) Emergency Project. (Pub. Res. Code § 21080(b)(4); State CEQA
Guidelines § 15269(b),(c))
(d) Categorical Exemption.
State type and section
number:
State CEQA Guidelines §15301 – “Class 1 – Existing
Facilities”
(e) Declared Emergency. (Pub. Res. Code § 21080(b)(3); State CEQA
Guidelines § 15269(a))
(f) Statutory Exemption.
State Code section number:
(g) Other. Explanation:
9. Reason why project was exempt: This Project is exempt from CEQA per Section 1503
of the CEQA Guidelines as the project is a Class 1
Page 44 of 51
Notice of Exemption FORM “B”
Exemption for Existing Facilities. The Project consists
of minor interior improvements, as well as the addition
of a new uncovered, outdoor patio.
The project is consistent with the City’s General Plan
and applicable zoning regulations. The site is serviced
by the appropriate utilities and would not result in
significant negative impacts on traffic, noise, air
quality or water quality.
10. Lead Agency Contact Person: Anna Dan, Associate Planner
Telephone: (760) 346-0611
11. If filed by applicant: Attach Preliminary Exemption Assessment (Form “A”) before filing.
12. Has a Notice of Exemption been filed by the public agency approving the project? Yes No
13. Was a public hearing held by the lead agency to consider the exemption? Yes No
If yes, the date of the public hearing was: July 18, 2023
Signature: Anna Dan Date: August 15, 2023
Title: Associate Planner
Signed by Lead Agency Signed by Applicant
Date Received for Filing:
(Clerk Stamp Here)
Authority cited: Sections 21083 and 21100, Public Resources Code.
Reference: Sections 21108, 21152, and 21152.1, Public Resources Code.
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Page 46 of 51
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NOPARKINGNOPARKINGEV CAPABLEEV CAPABLEEV CAPABLEEV CAPABLEEV CAPABLEAPN:
640-020-008
EXISTING
BUILDING
APN:
640-
0
2
0
-
0
5
4
APN:
640-020-007
OLIVE GARDEN
BUILDING
HWY.
1
1
1
PAINTERS PATH PROPERTY LINEPROPERTY LINEPROPERTY LINEPROPERTY LINEPROPERTY LINEPROPERTY LINEPRO
P
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PROPERTY LINEPROPERTY LINE
PROPER
T
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E
SITE PLAN
A D U L T
O N L Y
ADULT ONLY72221 HWY 111, SUITE 110PALM DESERT CASHEET:
SCALE:DRAWINGS PROVIDED BY:DMA DESIGN & CONSTRUCTIONGENERAL CONTRACTOR LIC. #95547022421 BARTON RD. #360GRAND TERRACE, CA 92313(951) 712-6575DATE:
4/3/2023CLIENTSITE PLANA-1
Page 48 of 51
NOPARKING
N
H
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T
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H
5 '134'
-8"
2 0 8 '-3 "4 0 3 '-6 "112'
-6"254'-4"98'-8"
2 1 '-1 0 "16'
-1"10'-5"18'-1"ADAHWY.
1
1
1
PAINTERS PATH PLPLPLPLPRO
P
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R
T
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LI
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PROPERTY LINE
SITE PLAN
SCALE: 1" = 30'-0"(E) B
UI
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(E ) 6 ' B L O C K F E N C E
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(E ) 6 ' B L O C K F E N C E
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PL
PL
A D U L T
O N L Y
(E ) T R A S H E N C L O S U R E
CON
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&
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(N ) 3 6 " T A L L
W R O U G H T IR O N
F E N C E
AA
DIRECTORY
OWNER:
ADAM GILBERT
THE FIRM
72221 HWY 111
PALM DESERT, CA 92260
(760)-408-8874
PLANING DEPARTMENT:
CITY OF PALM DESERT
73510 FRED WARING DRIVE
PALM DESERT, CA 92260
760-346-0611
PROPOSED BUSINESS
ADULT ONLY
72221 HWY 111
PALM DESERT, CA 92260
APPLICANT
DMA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION
NOAH AWONIYI
22400 BARTON RD #21-360
GRAND TERRACE, CA 92313
PROJECT DATA
APN: 640-020-054
YEAR: 1980
CONSTRUCTION TYPE:V-B
OCCUPANCY GROUPS:MIX USE
FIRE ALARM :NO
NUMBER OF STORIES : 1
SPRINKLER : NO
TOTAL PARKING: 76
GROSS ACREAGE: 1.31 ACRE
NET ACREAGE: 1.34 ACRE
BUILDING SQ FT: 15,946
PROPOSED BUSINESS SQ FT: 2,030
PROPOSED BUSINESS OUTDOOR AREA: 304 SQ FT
3'AA WROUGHT IRON FENCE
SCALE 1/4" = 1'-0"ADULT ONLY72221 HWY 111, SUITE 110PALM DESERT CASHEET:
SCALE:DRAWINGS PROVIDED BY:DMA DESIGN & CONSTRUCTIONGENERAL CONTRACTOR LIC. #95547022421 BARTON RD. #360GRAND TERRACE, CA 92313(951) 712-6575DATE:
4/3/2023CLIENTENLARGEDSITE PLANA-1E
VICINITY MAP
Page 49 of 51
N
20'-1"19'-2"
39'-3"10'-4"26'7'-6"9'-9"53'-7"7'-6"7'-2"14'-8"7'-9"9'-8"
39'-3"14'-3"17'-1"19'-7"50'-11"16'-10"6'-6"
23'-7"
5'17'-2"KITCHEN
OUTDOOR
(UNCOVERD PATIO)STORAGELOBBY
WOMEN
MEN
PROPOSED FLOOR PLAN
SCALE: 1/4" = 1'-0"
BAR SERVICE
EXIT
PATIO EXIT ADULT ONLY72221 HWY 111, SUITE 110PALM DESERT CASHEET:
SCALE:DRAWINGS PROVIDED BY:DMA DESIGN & CONSTRUCTIONGENERAL CONTRACTOR LIC. #95547022421 BARTON RD. #360GRAND TERRACE, CA 92313(951) 712-6575DATE:
4/3/2023CLIENTPROPOSEDFLOOR PLANA-2
Page 50 of 51
PLANNING COMMISSIONATTENDANCE REPORTROLLING CALENDARAdvisory Body: Prepared By:YearMonthDate 3-Jan 17-Jan 7-Feb 21-Feb 7-Mar 21-Mar 4-Apr 18-Apr 2-May 16-May 6-Jun 20-Jun 4-Jul 18-Jul 1-Aug 16-Aug 6-Sep 20-Sep 4-Oct 18-Oct 1-Nov 15-Nov 6-Dec 20-DecDeLuna, Nancy - P - A P - - P - P P P - P P P P - - P P P P -11Greenwood, John - P - PP--P- PPE-PPPP--PPPP-10Gregory, Ron - P - P A- -P - PAP-PPPP--PAPP-32Holt, Lindsay - P - P P - - A - P P P - E E P A - - P P P P -32Pradetto, Joseph - P - PP--P- PPP-PPPP--PPPP-00Palm Desert Municipal Code 2.34.010:PPresentAAbsentEExcused- No meeting2023 2023 2023 2023 2023Total AbsencesOct Nov DecPlanning CommissionM. O'Reilly2023 2023Twice Monthly: Six unexcused absences from regular meetings in any twelve-month period shall constitute an automatic resignation of members holding office on boards that meet twice monthly.Total Unexcused AbsencesJan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep2023/2022 2022 2022 2022 2022Page 51 of 51