HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-03-11 ARC Regular Meeting Agenda Packet
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION
CITY OF PALM DESERT
MEETING AGENDA
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
12:30 p.m.
Development Services Conference Room, City Hall
73-510 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, and up to two Commissioners may attend remotely.
To participate via Zoom, use the following link: https://palmdesert.zoom.us/j/83648797515 or
call (213) 338-8477, Zoom Meeting ID: 836 4879 7515
•
Written public comment may also be submitted to planning@palmdesert.gov. E-mails
received by 9:30 a.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.
•
Pages
1.CALL TO ORDER
2.ROLL CALL
3.NON-AGENDA PUBLIC COMMENT
This time has been set aside for the public to address the Architectural Review
Commission on issues that are not on the agenda for up to three minutes.
Speakers may utilize one of the three options listed on the first page of the
agenda. Because the Brown Act does not allow the Architectural Review
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.
4.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
the Architectural Review Commission for a separate discussion.
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the consent calendar as presented.
4.a APPROVAL OF MINUTES 5
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the Minutes of February 11, 2025.
5.CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER
6.ACTION CALENDAR
The public may comment on individual Action Items within the three-minute time
limit. Speakers may utilize one of the three options listed on the first page of the
agenda.
6.a CONSIDERATION TO APPROVE A SIGN PROGRAM AMENDMENT FOR
AN EXISTING, MULTITENANT COMMERCIAL BUILDING NORTH OF
HIGHWAY 111, APPROXIMATELY 505 FEET EAST OF DEEP CANYON
ROAD (CONTINUED FROM FEBRUARY 11, 2025)
9
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the ARC approve the request for a comprehensive sign
program amendment approval, determining the requirements of the findings
have been met.
6.b CONSIDERATION FOR APPROVAL OF A DESIGN REVIEW FOR
LANDSCAPING PLANS FOR PHASE 1 OF SITE A OF PALM DESERT
COUNTRY CLUB
55
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the Architectural Review Commission finds the project
satisfies all findings for design review approval, conforms with Conditions 15
and 16 from City Council Resolution No. 2018-16, and approves the project
with the following conditions:
Mexican fan palms shall not be installed.1.
The project entry off Tennessee Avenue shall include a minimum of
eight (8) California Fan palms in the entry, including a minimum of
two (2) within the median in the entry.
2.
7.REPORTS & REMARKS
7.a ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSIONERS
7.b CITY STAFF
7.b.1 PROVIDE FEEDBACK ON DESIGN OF NEW LIBRARY FACILITY 93
RECOMMENDATION:
Provide feedback on proposed design for new library facility.
Architectural Review Commission Meeting
2
7.c ATTENDANCE REPORT 95
8.ADJOURNMENT
The next Regular Meeting will be held on March 25, 2025, at 12:30 p.m.
9.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
Office of the City Clerk, Palm Desert Civic Center, 73-510 Fred Waring Drive,
Palm Desert. Staff reports for all agenda items considered in open session, 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.
AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
I hereby certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California
that the foregoing agenda for the Architectural Review Commission was posted
on the City Hall bulletin board and City website not less than 72 hours prior to
the meeting.
/S/ Melinda Gonzalez
Executive Administrative Assistant
Architectural Review Commission Meeting
3
4
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION
CITY OF PALM DESERT
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
February 11, 2025, 12:30 p.m.
Present: Commissioner James Blakeley, Commissioner Dean Wallace
Colvard, Commissioner Nicholas Latkovic, Commissioner Michael
McAuliffe, Commissioner James McIntosh, Commissioner
Francisco Sanchez, Chair John Vuksic
Staff Present: Principal Planner Carlos Flores, Recording Secretary Melinda
Gonzalez, Planning Technician Niko Romaidis
1. CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the Architectural Review Commission was called to order by Chair
Vuksic on February 11, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. in the Development Services Conference
Room, City Hall, located at 73-510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, California.
2. ROLL CALL
3. NON-AGENDA PUBLIC COMMENT
Chair Vuksic opened and closed the public comment period for Non-Agenda public
comment. No public comments were provided.
4. CONSENT CALENDAR
Motion by: Commissioner Latkovic
Seconded by: Commissioner McAuliffe
The Consent Calendar was approved as presented.
Motion Carried (7 to 0)
4.a APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Motion by: Commissioner Latkovic
Seconded by: Commissioner McAuliffe
The Architectural Review Commission (ARC) regular meeting minutes of January
28, 2025, were approved as presented.
Motion Carried (7 to 0)
5
Architectural Review Commission Minutes
February 25, 2025
2
5. CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER
None
6. ACTION CALENDAR
6.a CONSIDERATION TO APPROVE A SIGN PROGRAM AMENDMENT FOR AN
EXISTING, MULTITENANT COMMERCIAL BUILDING NORTH OF HIGHWAY
111, APPROXIMATELY 505 FEET EAST OF DEEP CANYON ROAD
Principal Planner, Carlos Flores, narrated a PowerPoint presentation on the item
and responded to Commission inquiries. Jack Rivers, President, with Canyon Print
and Signs, Applicant, Alan Moore, Sales Manager, and John Brendy, Property
Owner, were present in person.
Chair Vuksic opened the public comment period and invited the applicant to speak.
Jack Rivers with Canyon Print and Signs, Applicant, Alan Moore, Sales Manager,
and John Brendy, Property Owner, introduced themselves and answered
questions from the Commission.
With no other members of the public wishing to comment, Chair Vuksic closed the
public comment period. Discussion on the item ensued with Commissioners
providing comments on the project.
Motion by: Commissioner McAuliffe
Seconded by: Commissioner Sanchez
Motion carried to continue Case No. SARC24-0019, with the following comments:
1. Restudy the monument sign proportions for the base.
2. Implement spacing between the base and the main body of the sign.
3. Revisit the cap detail which casts shadow on the field of the sign itself, as
well as the edge and field spacing of the seven tenant signs.
4. Added height to the monument sign is allowable for the modifications.
Motion Carried (7 to 0)
6.b CONSIDERATION OF DESIGN REVIEW FOR A FAÇADE MODIFICATION TO
EXISTING STOREFRONT FOR RESTORATION HARDWARE LOCATED AT
73100 EL PASEO, SUITES 3-10.
Planning Technician, Niko Romaidis, narrated a PowerPoint presentation on the
item and responded to Commission inquiries. Brian Foust, Applicant, and David
Fletcher, Property Owner Representative, were present in person. Michael
Avelone with Restoration Hardware, Matthew Morgan, Landscape Architect, and
Rebecca Hidalgo, Lighting Designer, joined the meeting via Zoom.
Chair Vuksic opened the public comment period and invited the applicant to speak.
Brian Foust, Applicant, David Fletcher, Property Owner Representative, and
6
Architectural Review Commission Minutes
February 25, 2025
3
Matthew Morgan, Landscape Architect, introduced themselves and answered
questions from the Commission.
With no other members of the public wishing to comment, Chair Vuksic closed the
public comment period. Discussion on the item ensued with Commissioners
providing comments on the project.
Motion by: Commissioner McAuliffe
Seconded by: Commissioner Latkovic
Motion carried to approve Case No. MISC24-0023 as presented, subject to the
following condition:
1. The awnings shall be a “Heather Beige” color as provided in the physical
material sample.
Motion Carried (7 to 0)
6.c CONSIDERATION TO APPROVE A DESIGN REVIEW FOR A FAÇADE
MODIFICATION TO AN EXISTING COMMERCIAL STOREFRONT FOR
LOVESAC RETAIL BUSINESS AT 73-199 EL PASEO, SUITES C-D
Principal Planner Flores narrated a PowerPoint presentation on the item and
responded to Commission inquiries. Alexis Donnelly, Applicant Representative,
joined the meeting via Zoom. David Fletcher, Property Owner Representative, was
present in person.
Chair Vuksic opened the public comment period and invited the applicant to speak.
Alexis Donnelly, Applicant Representative, and David Fletcher, Property Owner
Representative, introduced themselves and answered questions from the
Commission.
With no other members of the public wishing to comment, Chair Vuksic closed the
public comment period. Discussion on the item ensued with Commissioners
providing comments on the project.
Motion by: Commissioner McIntosh
Seconded by: Commissioner Colvard
Motion carried to approve Case No. MISC25-0002 as presented, subject to the
following condition:
1. The Dark Tile Plank shall remain with a “Walnut” brown finish.
Motion Carried (7 to 0)
7. REPORTS & REMARKS
7.a ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSIONERS
Commissioner Colvard reported the Cultural Arts Committee meeting for February
was canceled and the next meeting will be held in March.
7
Architectural Review Commission Minutes
February 25, 2025
4
7.b CITY STAFF
Upon inquiry, Principal Planner Flores reported the DSRT Surf project has broken
ground and currently has multiple plans under review for permitting. The lot on
Country Club is a staging area for the DSRT Surf project and will eventually be an
overflow parking lot for DSRT Surf.
In response to inquiry, Principal Planner Flores encouraged Commissioners whose
term is ending to submit their applications for reappointment.
7.c ATTENDANCE REPORT
The attendance report was provided with the agenda materials. The Commission
took no action on this item.
8. ADJOURNMENT
The Architectural Review Commission adjourned at 2:18 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
____________________________________________
Melinda Gonzalez, Executive Administrative Assistant
Recording Secretary
ATTEST:
____________________________________________
Carlos Flores, Principal Planner
Secretary
APPROVED BY ARC: __/__/2025
8
Page 1 of 10
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION
CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: March 11, 2025
PREPARED BY: Kayleen Aguirre, Assistant Planner
SUBJECT: CONSIDERATION TO APPROVE A SIGN PROGRAM AMENDMENT FOR
AN EXISTING, MULTITENANT COMMERCIAL BUILDING NORTH OF
HIGHWAY 111, APPROXIMATELY 505 FEET EAST OF DEEP CANYON
ROAD (CONTINUED FROM FEBRUARY 11, 2025)
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the ARC approve the request for a comprehensive sign program amendment
approval, determining the requirements of the findings have been met.
Any modifications required by the ARC should be added to the motion as a condition of approval.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS:
The Applicant, Jack Rivers for Canyon Print & Signs, is requesting approval of a Sign Program
Amendment for an existing, multitenant commercial building (Building) north of Highway 111,
approximately 505 feet east of Deep Canyon Road, at 74600 Highway 111 (Assessor’s Parcel
Number: 625100037).
The proposal would amend the existing Sign Program (Program) and would set guidelines for
sign criteria, including size, location, construction, height, length, and illumination for all building
and monument signage for the Building.
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION (ARC):
The ARC considered the project request at its meeting on February 11, 2025, and following
discussion, MOTION BY COMMISSIONER MCAULIFFE, SECOND BY COMMISSIONER
SANCHEZ, CARRIED 7-0 to continue Case No. SARC24-0019 with the following comments:
1. Restudy the monument sign proportions of the base.
2. Implement spacing between the base and the main body of the sign.
3. Revisit the cap detail which casts shadow on the field of the sign itself, as well as the
edge and field spacing of the seven tenant signs.
4. Added height to the monument sign is allowable for the modifications.
The Applicant has submitted a revised design, shown in Attachment 1, Table 2 and Exhibit 3
below. All four conditions from the motion have been addressed:
1) The base design has been revised to a rectangular shape to create better proportion.
2) A 3” space has been placed between base and main body of the design.
3) The cap detail and tenant panels have been redesigned to accomplish better spacing.
4) Monument sign has been increased as part of the redesign.
9
Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
SARC24-0019 74600 Highway 111 Sign Program
Page 2 of 10
Extending underneath the brown stucco cap, the design will feature an aluminum top portion
with a smooth finish painted a shade of white (Behr “Maui Mist” BL-W10) and will include two (2)
brown acrylic palm tree crowns, one (1) on either side of a single white acrylic tenant sign. Below
this top portion, the design will feature seven-inch (7”) tall brown address numbers aligned
vertically down the center of the main body of the sign, mounted to the stucco which is painted
“Tan” (DE 6205), and six (6) white acrylic tenant signs. Tenant signs will be separated into two
(2) columns, one (1) column on either side of the vertical address numbers and will extend two
inches (2”) outward for architectural interest. The updated design will have rectangular shapes
instead of the triangular forms of the existing base and cap.
PROJECT SUMMARY:
A. Property Description:
On September 12, 1996, the City Council (Council) approved Resolution 96-57 for a 9,200
square-foot Precise Plan design for a 35,000 square-foot project site (Site) on the north
side of Highway 111, approximately 505 feet east of Deep Canyon Road (Case No. PP
96-6). Ordinance 813 was adopted for the approval of a Zoning Map amendment on the
same date to change the Site’s zone from PC-4 (Resort Commercial) to PC-2 (District
Commercial) (Case No. C/Z 96-4).
On October 8, 1996, the Architectural Review Commission (ARC) approved a sign
program and free-standing identification monument sign with four tena nts listed, subject
to the lay-out and script that would return to the commission for approval (Case No. PP
96-6). See Attachment 2 for the original Program.
On February 25, 1997, the ARC approved the re-design of the monument sign using
vertical scoring (Case No. PP 96-6).
The Building is currently an active multitenant commercial building with tenants including
“Wingstop” and “Starbucks”. It is located within an existing commercial center with two
other buildings, including a singular “Albertson’s” grocery building to the north of the
commercial center and another multitenant commercial building to the west. The Program
is solely for the Building and would not apply to the other two commercial buildings within
the commercial center.
B. Zoning, General Plan and Adjacent Uses
Table 1 – Adjacent Land Use and Designations
Existing Uses General Plan Zoning
Project Site General Retail Center Suburban
Retail Center
District Commercial Center
(P.C.-2)
North Grocery/Produce Store Small Town
Neighborhood
District Commercial Center
(P.C.-2)
South Full-Service Restaurant Town Center
Neighborhood
District Commercial Center
(P.C.-2)
10
Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
SARC24-0019 74600 Highway 111 Sign Program
Page 3 of 10
West General Retail Center Suburban
Retail Center
District Commercial Center
(P.C.-2)
East Hotel Suburban
Retail Center
Resort Commercial Center,
Scenic Preservation Overlay
(PC. -4, S.P.)
C. Project Description
The Applicant is requesting a Program amendment and will be making corrections to illegible
portions of the document. The proposed Program would set guidelines for sign criteria,
including size, location, construction, height, length, and illumination for one (1) multitenant
building, and for one (1) standalone monument sign, as shown on Exhibit 1.
Exhibit 1 – Program Site Plan
The Program outlines the standards and requirements for the Building signs on the existing
Building. All the Building signs are currently approved and installed. The Program will leave the
existing business identification signs as is and is intended to provide clarity for the Building
moving forward.
The Program separates signage guidelines into three (3) categories: (1) Approved Signs, (2)
Monument Sign, and (3) Prohibited Sign Types (Attachment 1, Page 4). The Program details
submittal requirements (Attachment 1, Page 7), sign construction details (Attachment 1, Page
11
Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
SARC24-0019 74600 Highway 111 Sign Program
Page 4 of 10
11), a site plan with allowed sign types (Attachment 1, Page 12), and monument sign
construction details (Attachment 1, Pages 15-18).
The Program proposes a re-design for one (1) multitenant monument sign that exists along
Highway 111. The one (1) multitenant monument sign is the only sign part of this Program that
will have a new design from what is currently existing and approved. Details for the existing and
proposed monument signs are listed in Table 2. Exhibit 2 (next page) shows the existing
monument sign and Exhibit 3 (next page) provides the proposed new monument sign. Exhibit 3
shows the proposed monument sign without finished colors but would include the existing color
palette, as identified in Table 2.
Table 2 – Monument Sign Details
Detail Existing (Exhibit 2) Proposed (Exhibit 3)
Panels Four (4) 15” tall panels for tenants
Square footage: 5.2 sf (per sign)
Projection: 1.5” retainer
Seven (7) 15” tall panels for tenants
Square footage: 5.2 sf (per sign)
Projection: 1.5” retainer
Monument
Dimensions
Height (grade to top): 6 ft. 6 in.
Depth: 2 ft. 3 in.
Width: 9 ft.
Height (grade to top): 9 ft.
Depth: 2 ft. 3 in.
Width: 9 ft. 4 in.
Monument Base Concrete foundation: 3” tall from grade
Monument base: 24” from concrete
foundation, 120” width
Reinforced with concrete anchors
and steel posts
Concrete foundation: 3” tall from grade
Monument base: 14” tall from concrete
foundation, 120” width
Reinforced with concrete anchors
and steel posts
Colors &
Materials
Desert color palette
Panels: White acrylic faces
Monument: Stucco painted tan
Base & Cap: Stucco painted brown
Desert color palette
Panels: White acrylic faces
Monument: Stucco painted “Tan”
(DE 6205); Aluminum painted Behr
“Maui Mist” (#BL-W10) for top
portion
Base & Cap: Stucco painted “Deep
Brown” (DE 6077)
Palm Tree Crowns: Acrylic painted
Brown to match base & cap color
Address Numbers: Acrylic painted
Brown to match base & cap color
Lighting Internally illuminated tenant signs. Same as existing.
12
Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
SARC24-0019 74600 Highway 111 Sign Program
Page 5 of 10
Exhibit 2 – Existing Monument Sign
Exhibit 3 – Proposed Monument Sign Dimensions
ANALYSIS:
Per Palm Desert Municipal Code (PDMC) Section 25.56.100, the purpose of a comprehensive
sign program is to “integrate all of a nonresidential project’s signs with the overall site design
and the structures’ design into a unified architectural statement. A comprehensive sign program
13
Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
SARC24-0019 74600 Highway 111 Sign Program
Page 6 of 10
provides a means for the flexible application of sign regulations in order to provide incentive and
latitude in the design and display of multiple signs…”
Table 3 below provides a summary of proposed development standards for th e Program as
compared to the City’s sign ordinance under PDMC Section 25.56.070 and guidelines from the
existing Program for reference.
Table 3 – PDMC Summary
Standard PDMC Allowance Existing Proposed
Size (max
sign area)
1 sf per lineal foot of
tenant frontage to a
maximum of 50 sf per
elevation
1 sf per lineal foot of tenant
frontage to a maximum of 50
sf per elevation.
1 sf per lineal foot of tenant
frontage to a maximum of 50
sf per store frontage.
Sign Height Maximum height of 20
ft. from ground floor
20 ft maximum height No mention – PDMC 20 feet
will apply.
Letter
Height
N/A Letter height: 14” min.,
24” max
2 lines considered case
by case.
24” total sign height, 1
line
2 lines considered case
by case
Tenants A and G (ends):
58”, 2 lines
Number of
Signs
1 per building frontage Additional sign allowed for
the north elevation shop
tenant. No additional sign for
the south elevation shop
tenant.
1 sign per tenant leased
frontage. An additional sign
is allowed if the unit is an
end or corner unit.
Illumination
Allowed
Yes Yes, non-illumination
prohibited.
Same as existing.
Length N/A N/A N/A
Secondary
Signs
Permitted per
standards listed in
PDMC §25.56.080C.
N/A No mention – PDMC will
apply.
Monument
sign
50 sf of sign area.
6 ft of height but may
be higher if necessary.
Height shall not
exceed 10 ft.
40.5 sf of sign area
6.6 ft height
66.9 sf of sign area
9 ft height
14
Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
SARC24-0019 74600 Highway 111 Sign Program
Page 7 of 10
ZONING ORDINANCE SUMMARY:
Proposed comprehensive sign programs require Design Review approval by the Architectural
Review Commission pursuant to PDMC Section 25.68.050(C)(3). A comprehensive sign
program shall comply with the following standards, as outlined in PDMC Section 25.56.100(D):
1. The proposed sign program shall comply with the purpose and intent of this chapter.
The intent of this chapter (PDMC Chapter 25.56 Signs) is to implement the goals and
policies of the General Plan, particularly with regard to developing a City th at is visually
attractive and preserving and enhancing the visual aspects of the City’s streets, highways,
vistas, and view sheds. The purpose of these regulations is to provide each sign user an
opportunity for adequate identification while guarding again st excessive advertising and
the confusing proliferation of signs, ensure signs are in harmony with the building, the
neighborhood, and other signs in the area, and protect the safety of motorists and
pedestrians by minimizing the distraction of excessive and intrusive signs as well as to
protect the life, health, property, and general welfare of residents and visitors.
Everything proposed is in line with the intent mentioned above. The Program provides
each tenant with adequate identification but not a nu mber of signs that is excessive. Signs
are designed to be harmonious with the building and surrounding commercial uses and
are designed in a way to not cause distractions to motorists as they drive by. The Program
creates strict criteria to ensure that the signage on the building is attractive and enhances
the visual aspects of the City meanwhile providing adequate size for businesses.
2. The proposed signs shall enhance the overall development, be in harmony with, and
relate visually to other signs included in the comprehensive sign program, to the
structures and/or developments they identify, and to surrounding development when
applicable.
The proposed Program creates a uniform look for the building and provides criteria to
ensure this consistency. The signs are designed to be in harmony with the building and
all signs on the building. The Program has clear and detailed criteria relating to
development standards, construction, sign criteria, and location. The signs are compatible
with the surrounding commercial uses.
3. The sign program shall address all signs, including permanent, temporary, and exempt
signs.
The Program provides standards for all types of signs, including permanent, temporary,
and exempt signs. Additionally, information is provided for prohibited signs and the
monument sign. Other types of signs, including store numbers and window signs, shall
be reviewed and approved according to the standards listed in the Palm Desert Municipal
Code.
15
Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
SARC24-0019 74600 Highway 111 Sign Program
Page 8 of 10
4. The sign program shall accommodate future revisions that may be required because of
changes in use or tenants.
The Program is broad enough to provide standar ds for a change of tenants, meanwhile
still providing clear criteria for any future use or tenants in the building. Future tenants will
be required to submit plans for building signage to the City of Palm Desert for compliance
with the sign program and Palm Desert Municipal Code.
5. The sign program shall comply with the standards of this chapter, except that deviations
are allowed with regard to sign area, total number, location, and/or height of signs to the
extent that the comprehensive sign program will enhance the overall development and
will more fully accomplish the purposes and intent of this chapter.
Table 3 in the staff report provides a breakdown of where the Program deviates from the
Palm Desert Municipal Code chapter on signs as well as guideline s from the existing
Program for reference. The Program complies with the standards and intent of the
chapter. The revised Program is designed to correct illegible portions of the existing
document and to enhance the overall development, including the Build ing and
surrounding commercial uses. The signs identified within the Program are existing and
were approved under the original Program. The Program will leave the existing business
identification signs as is and provides a design to replace the existing (1) monument sign.
The revisions to the existing Program are appropriate for the Building, surrounding area,
and the existing signs.
The Program proposes to allow for deviations from PDMC standards for the proposed
monument sign including a total sign area of 66.9 square feet, which is above the allowed
maximum of 50 square feet, and a height of 9 feet, which is above the allowed maximum
of 6 feet. Signs may be proposed with a greater height if topographic or other features
necessitate a higher sign, but in no event shall the total sign height exceed 10 feet. The
current monument sign is less than the maximum 50 square feet of sign area, and the
proposed monument sign only increases the existing height to allow for additional
signage. The top part of the monument will increase in width to 112” from the existing
108”. It does not increase the monument’s depth, the width of its base nor its foundation.
6. Approval of a comprehensive sign program shall not authorize the use of signs prohibited
by this chapter.
Approval of the Program would not include approval of individual sign permit(s). If the
program is approved, the Applicant would need to apply for sign permit(s) for any
individually proposed signs, subject to the review and approval of the City’s Development
Services Department. The Program provides information on prohibited sign types and
indicates that all signs prohibited by the City of Palm Desert shall not be allowed.
7. Review and approval of a comprehensive sign program shall not consider the signs’
proposed message content.
16
Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
SARC24-0019 74600 Highway 111 Sign Program
Page 9 of 10
The sign program is written to be absent of any standards as it relates to message content
and instead focuses solely on sign standards, locations, construction, and criteria. The
approval of a sign program does not take into accou nt the signs proposed message
content.
Findings for the ARC decisions of comprehensive sign program applications are listed under
PDMC Section 25.56.100(E) as follows.
1. The comprehensive sign program complies with the purpose of this chapter, including the
design criteria.
The intent of PDMC Chapter 25.56 Signs is to provide regulations that allow each sign
user an opportunity for adequate identification while protecting against excessive
advertising and the confusing proliferation of signs. It ensures signs are in harmony with
the building, the neighborhood, other signs in the area, and protects the safety of
motorists and pedestrians by minimizing the distraction of excessive and intrusive signs.
Everything proposed within the Program is in line with the intent mentioned above. The
Program provides its tenants with adequate identification. Signs are designed to be
harmonious with the building and surrounding commercial uses and are designed in a
way to not cause distractions to motorists that drive by. The Program creates strict criteria
to ensure that signage on the building is attractive and enhances the visual aspects of the
City.
2. Proposed signs enhance the overall development and are in harmony with other signs
included in the plan with the structures they identify and with surrounding development.
The proposed Program creates a uniform look for the building and provides criteria to
ensure this consistency. The signs are designed to be in harmony with the building and
all signs on the building. The Program has clear and detailed criteria relating to
development standards, construction, sign criteria, and location. The signs are compatible
with the surrounding commercial buildings.
3. The comprehensive sign program contains provisions to accommodate future revisions
that may be required because of changes in use or tenants.
The Program is broad enough to provide standards for a change of tenants, meanwhile
still providing clear criteria for any future use or tenants in the building. Future tenants will
be required to submit plans for building signage to the City of Palm Desert for compliance
with the sign program and Palm Desert Municipal Code.
4. The comprehensive sign program complies with the standards of this chapter, except that
flexibility is allowed with regard to sign area, number, location, and/or height to the extent
that the signs proposed under the comprehensive sign program will enhance the overall
17
Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
SARC24-0019 74600 Highway 111 Sign Program
Page 10 of 10
development, achieve superior quality design, and will more fully accomplish the
purposes of this chapter.
Table 3 in the staff report provides a breakdown of where the Program deviates from the
Palm Desert Municipal Code chapter on signs as well as guidelines from the existing
Program for reference. The Program complies with the standards and in tent of the
chapter. The revised Program is designed to correct illegible portions of the existing
document and to enhance the overall development, including the Building and
surrounding commercial uses. The signs identified within the Program are existing and
were approved under the original Program. The Program will leave the existing business
identification signs as is and provides a design to replace the existing (1) monument sign.
The revisions to the existing Program are appropriate for the Building, surrounding area,
and the existing signs.
The Program proposes and allows for a deviation from PDMC standards for the proposed
monument sign, to allow for a sign area of 66.9 square feet, above the allowed maximum
of 50 square feet, and a height of 9 feet, above the allowed maximum of 6 feet. Signs
may be proposed with a greater height if topographic or other features necessitate a
higher sign, but in no event shall the total sign height exceed 10 feet. The current
monument sign is less than the maximum 50 square feet of sign area, and the proposed
monument sign only increases the existing height to allow for additional signage. The top
part of the monument will increase in width to 112” from the existing 108”. It does not
increase the monument’s depth, the width of its base nor its foundation. The proposed re-
design of the monument sign and the Program in its entirety are appropriate and effective
for the Building, its tenants, the commercial center, and the surrounding neighborhood.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Revised Sign Program
2. Original Sign Program
3. First Monument Design
18
19
18.
20
21
G.
Monument size 108" high by 112" wide of the top portion and 120" wide base for 83.1 square feet.
Monument painted stucco Tan DE 6205, stucco painted Deep Brown DE 6077 for base and cap, smooth finish painted Behr Maui Mist BL-W10 for
its top portion, and acrylic painted to match base color for palm tree crown details and address letters. Text color and font to be approved by owner.
Monument Internally illuminated, 1/2" push through, .063 aluminum box with acrylic panels for tenants names.
store frontage.
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
Painted Deep Brown
DE 6077
Painted Stucco
Tan DE 6205
Painted Tan
DE 6205
33
34
35
36
Attached is City approved sign program for 74600 Deep Canyon, Palm Desert, CA
9226(Albertson’s Center at Highway 111, Deep Canyon)
Building current owner: CV3 Deep Canyon, LLC
Received from Kayleen Aguirre, August 9, 2024
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
Page 15
January 16, 2025
P r int & Sig n s
760.832.8433
15”
27”
YO U R N A M E H E R E
1.5” Retainer
Painted Stucco Tan DE 6205
FINISHED GRADE 3” H EXISTING CONCREATE BASE
NIGHT VIEW
2.75”
14”
Painted Deep
Brown DE 6077
White arylic faces
YOUR N AME HER E
YOUR NA ME HE RE
South Elevation
49
Page 16
January 16, 2025
P r int & Sig n s
760.832.8433
96”
82”
14”
Max 20pcs
Max 20pcs
Max 20pcs
LED Illuminated Diagram
Method A:
1. Only Connects the First LED module in
the main power Max number is 20pcs
2. Isolate the wire ends to prevent short ciscuit
Method B
1. Connect the module string for both ends,
max number is 25pcs
2. Isolate the wire ends to prevent short circuit
L CHANNELS
BASE
GROUND LEVEL
STEEL POST
EXISTING CONCRETE FOOTING
AT 4,500 PSI
CONCRETE ANCHORS
Ul Approval Components Consisting Of Low Voltage(12v)
LED Modules, With Minimum Light Output Of 120 Lumens/ft.
120”27”
15”
LED LIGHTS
.063 ALUMINUM FACES
1.5” RETAINER
ALUMINUM DIVIDER
1/8” ACRYLIC FACES
1/4-20 SNAP TOGGLE ANCHORS
PER MOUNTING PAD
ANCHOR HOLDS UP TO 80 LBS. EACH
1/4-20 SNAP TOGGLE ANCHORS
PER MOUNTING PAD
ANCHOR HOLDS UP TO 80 LBS. EACH
LOW VOLTAGE POWER SUPPLY
(SELF-CONTAINED)
GROUND WIRE
TO ELECTRICAL
J-BOX
DISCONNECT SWITCH
JUNCTION BOX
ILLUMINATED MONUMENT DIAGRAM
50
120” at base
108” top part of sign
78” height
CURRENT FRONT VIEW NEW FRONT VIEW
2.75”
51
FRONT VIEW SIDE VIEW
2.75”
15”
27”
52
120” at base
108” top par t of sign
78” height
FRONT VIEW SIDE VIEW
27” depth
78” height
53
54
SARC24-0019
74600 Highway 111
PALM DESERT ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION
FEBRUARY 11, 2025
Project Request
Case No. SARC24-0019
Project Applicant: Jack Rivers for Canyon
Print & Signs
Project Description: Request for Sign
Program amendment for an existing,
multitenant commercial building and
monument sign at 74600 Highway 111
2March 11, 2025
Site Plan
3March 11, 2025
Continued Items
ARC considered project request at its meeting on February 11, 2025. The case was
continued with the following comments:
1)Restudy the monument sign proportions of the base.
2)Implement spacing between the base and the main body of the sign.
3)Revisit the cap detail which casts shadow on the field of the sign itself, as well as
the edge and field spacing of the seven tenant signs.
4)Added height to the monument sign is allowable for the modifications.
4March 11, 2025
5March 11, 2025
6March 11, 2025
7March 11, 2025
8March 11, 2025
9March 11, 2025
Standard PDMC Allowance Existing Monument Sign Proposed Monument Sign
Panels/Sign
Area
Sign Area: 50 sf •Four (4) 15” tall panels for tenants
•Square footage: 5.2 sf (per sign)
•Projection: 1.5” retainer
TOTAL SIGN AREA: 48 sf
•Seven (7) 15” tall panels for tenants
•Square footage: 5.2 sf (per sign)
•Projection: 1.5” retainer
TOTAL SIGN AREA: 66.9 sf
Dimensions Height: 6 ft height but
may be higher if
necessary. Height shall
not exceed 10 ft.
•Height (grade to top): 6 ft. 6 in.
•Depth: 2 ft. 3 in.
•Width: 9 ft.
•Height (grade to top): 9 ft.
•Depth: 2 ft. 3 in.
•Width: 9 ft. 4 in.
Base N/A Concrete foundation: 3” tall from grade
Monument base: 24” from concrete
foundation, 120” width
•Reinforced with concrete anchors and
steel posts
Same as existing except 14” tall from concrete
foundation.
Number of
Signs
1 per building frontage Additional sign allowed for the north
elevation shop tenant. No additional sign
for the south elevation shop tenant.
1 sign per tenant leased frontage. An additional
sign is allowed if the unit is an end or corner
unit.
Illumination
Allowed
Yes Yes, non-illumination prohibited.Same as existing.
West Elevation
10March 11, 2025
South Elevation
March 11, 2025 11
North Elevation
Highway 111
La
r
k
s
p
u
r
L
a
n
e
12March 11, 2025
March 11, 2025 13
Sign Samples
14March 11, 2025
Sign Construction
15March 11, 2025
16
Standard PDMC Allowance Existing Proposed
Size (max sign
area)
1 sf per lineal foot of tenant
frontage to a maximum of 50
sf per elevation
1 sf per lineal foot of tenant frontage
to a maximum of 50 sf per elevation.
Same as existing
Sign Height Maximum height of 20 ft. from
ground floor
20 ft maximum height No mention – PDMC 20 feet will apply
Letter Height N/A •Letter height: 14” min., 24” max
•2 lines considered case by case
•24” total sign height, 1 line
•2 lines considered case by case
•Tenants A and G (ends): 58”, 2 lines
Number of Signs 1 per building frontage Additional sign allowed for the north
elevation shop tenant. No additional
sign for the south elevation shop
tenant.
1 sign per tenant leased frontage. An
additional sign is allowed if the unit is an
end or corner unit.
Illumination
Allowed
Yes Yes, non-illumination prohibited.Same as existing.
Length N/A N/A N/A
Secondary Signs Two per business N/A No mention – PDMC will apply.
Monument Sign 50 sf of sign area
6 ft height but may be higher
if necessary. Height shall not
exceed 10 ft.
48 sf of sign area
6 ft height
66.9 sf of sign area
9 ft height
March 11, 2025
Recommendation
17
Staff recommends the ARC approve the request for a comprehensive sign program amendment
approval, determining the requirements of the findings have been met.
Any modifications required by the ARC should be added to the motion as a condition of approval.
March 11, 2025
Page 1 of 6
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION
CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: March 11, 2025
PREPARED BY: Carlos Flores, AICP, Principal Planner
SUBJECT: CONSIDERATION FOR APPROVAL OF A DESIGN REVIEW FOR
LANDSCAPING PLANS FOR PHASE 1 OF SITE A OF PALM DESERT
COUNTRY CLUB
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the Architectural Review Commission finds the project satisfies all findings
for design review approval, conforms with Conditions 15 and 16 from City Council Resolution
No. 2018-16, and approves the project with the following conditions:
1) Mexican fan palms shall not be installed.
2) The project entry off Tennessee Avenue shall include a minimum of eight (8) California
Fan palms in the entry, including a minimum of two (2) within the median in the entry.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS:
Executive Summary:
Case No.: LS24-0017
Related cases: Precise Plan and Conditional Use Permit (PP/CUP) 16-280 and Tentative
Tract Map (TTM) 37240
On May 10, 2018, the City of Palm Desert City Council (Council) adopted Resolution No. 2018 -
16 (Reso 2018-16), granting Villas PD (Applicant) approval of PP/CUP 16-280 for the
repurposing of the former Palm Desert Country Club (PDCC) Executive Course. The approval
converted three (3) golf course areas into 69 residential condominium units on approximately 30
acres. On June 19, 2018, the City of Palm Desert Planning Commission (Planning Commission)
adopted Resolution No. 2721 to subdivide the three (3) cours es as follows:
- Site A: TTM 37240
- Site B: TTM 37241
- Site C: TTM 37242
On January 20, 2022, the Applicant was issued a grading permit for Site A (PG19-0013) and
commenced grading activities on June 20, 2022. Since that date, the Applicant has completed
grading and building activities on Site A, including construction of eight (8) homes on the east
part of Site A. However, no landscaping construction or installation has occurred on Site A. Sites
B and C do not have grading or building permit issuances. Figure 1 below shows the locations
for Sites A, B, and C, with conditions as of January 2025.
55
Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
LS24-0017 PDCC Site A Phase 1 Landscaping
Page 2 of 6
Figure 1 – Vicinity Map
Project Summary:
The Applicant submitted a landscape review application (LS24-0017) to construct landscaping
within a portion of Site A. The project would include 105,163 square feet (sf) of landscape area
within the east part of Site A. Approval by the Architectural Review Commission (ARC) would
allow the Applicant to construct the proposed landscaping.
TTM 37240 and PP/CUP16-280 did not provide a phased approach to Site A. However, the
Applicant has requested landscape approval for the portion of Site A that currently has building
permits, inclusive of landscaping the project entry, median, front yards, street, and area adjacent
to existing homes. LS24-0017 would cover only a portion of Site A as shown in Figure 2 on page
3 of this report, referenced as Phase 1, and includes the main project entrance off Tennessee.
Future landscaping for the rest of Site A would require a subsequent landscape plan
application(s) and review. Future landscape application(s) would require ARC approval after
confirming conformance with Reso 2018-16 and the Palm Desert Municipal Code. LS24-0017
includes landscaping and irrigation only and does not include approval for any walls/fences,
lighting, and signage, all of which require separate approvals and conformance with Reso 2018-
16 and the Palm Desert Municipal Code
A. Property Description
Site A consists of 13.5 acres bound by Oklahoma Avenue, Kentucky Avenue, and Tennessee
Avenue. Site A would have project entry access off Kentucky Avenue and Tennessee Avenue.
LS24-0017 would consist of Phase 1 of Site A, as shown in Figure 2 on page 3 of this report.
Site A
Site B
Site C
56
Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
LS24-0017 PDCC Site A Phase 1 Landscaping
Page 3 of 6
Figure 2 – LS24-0017 Site Plan
B. Zoning, General Plan and Adjacent Uses
Table 1 – Adjacent Land Use and Designations
Existing Uses General Plan Zoning
Project Site Vacant Golf Course & Resort
Neighborhood
Mixed Residential District (R-2)
North Existing Residential Golf Course & Resort
Neighborhood
Single-Family Residential (R-1)
South Existing Residential Golf Course & Resort
Neighborhood
Single-Family Residential (R-1)
East Existing Residential Golf Course & Resort
Neighborhood
Single-Family Residential (R-1)
West Vacant (Site A) Golf Course & Resort
Neighborhood
Mixed Residential District (R-2)
C. Project Description
The Applicant is requesting approval for LS24-0017 for the construction of 105,163 sf of
landscaping within the eastern portion of Site A, including the project entry off Tennessee
Avenue. The landscape plans include irrigation plans and details, planting plans and details, and
approval from the Riverside County Agricultural Commissioner and Coachella Va lley Water
District (CVWD). The Applicant is proposing a plant palette that is consistent with the PP/CUP
16-280 preliminary landscaping plan, including, but not limited to: Shoestring acacias, Palo
Verdes, California fan palms, red bird of paradise, chupa rosa, Texas rangers, agave, and emu
bushes. All proposed shrubs are a minimum size of 5-gallon and all trees are a minimum of 24”
box size.
57
Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
LS24-0017 PDCC Site A Phase 1 Landscaping
Page 4 of 6
Landscaping is proposed in the project entry, adjacent to streets, and perimeters adjacent to
neighboring homes of Phase 1 along the north, east, and south. Irrigation is included throughout
all landscape areas, utilizing drip emitters for trees, palms, and shrubs.
Public Input
Condition of approval #15 on Reso 2018-16 stated: “The developers and their landscape
architect, agree to meet with individual homeowners regarding final tree placement and type
within the site area. Tree quantities shall not be less than those shown in the preliminary
landscape plan”. The Applicant conducted outreach in January 2025 to receive feedback on the
proposed plans and stated they did not receive any feedback that would revise the plans.
Additionally, City staff sent out a public notice for the March 11, 2025, ARC meeting to existing
property owners adjacent to the LS24-0017 project site, to encourage participation and
feedback. No comments have been received as of the date of this report.
Zoning Ordinance Summary:
Landscape applications are reviewed in accordance with Palm Desert Municipal Code (PDMC)
Chapter 24.04 Water-efficient Landscape. Landscape applications for construction are typically
reviewed and approved by the City’s Planning division. However, due to conditions of approval
#15 and #16 on Reso 2018-16, and additional public feedback on the project, the City’s
Development Services Department determined that project approval should be subject to the
ARC, to provide design review approval and ensure compliance with both conditions. Condition
of Approval #16 reads as follows:
Final landscape plans shall be prepared by a registered and licensed landscape architect
and submitted to the Department of [Development Services] for review. The plan shall be
consistent with the preliminary landscape plans reviewed by the Planning Commission,
unless changes are requested by the Planning Department staff. Changes shall be limited to
plant quantities, sizes, types, and p hasing of landscape improvements at the project site.
Landscape plans must meet the following criteria:
A. Must be water efficient in design and meet the City of Palm Desert’s Water Efficiency
Landscape Ordinance.
B. Planting plans must show the location of proposed and existing utilities.
C. Must match approved civil plans.
D. All specifications and details must be site specific.
E. Applications must have CVWD approval of their irrigation plans prior to City approval.
F. Applicant must have a stamp or signature from the County Agricultural Commissioner
before City approval.
G. Plantings shall be shown at a minimum size of five gallons.
H. Trees shall be shown at a minimum size of 24-inch box with a minimum one-inch
caliper.
Findings
As outlined in the staff report, the applicant has adhered to Conditions #15 and #16 in Reso
2018-16. The Applicant has also met all requirements from Chapter 24.04 and will be required
to continue to adhere to this, including completion of a Certificate of Completion once the
landscaping construction is complete within Phase 1.
58
Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
LS24-0017 PDCC Site A Phase 1 Landscaping
Page 5 of 6
Findings for the ARC decisions of design review applications are liste d under PDMC Section
25.68.040 – Findings of the ARC. Findings in support of the project are listed below.
To approve a design review application, the ARC shall find the following:
A. That the proposed development conforms to any legally adopted development standards.
The proposed improvements conform with the standards for the R-2 zoning district,
including landscaping standards established by Chapter 24.04 and Reso 2018 -16.
B. That the design and location of the proposed development and its relationship to
neighboring existing or proposed developments and traffic is such that it will not impair
the desirability of investment or occupation in the neighborhood; and that it will not
unreasonably interfere with the use and enjoyment of neighboring existing or p roposed
developments and that it will not create traffic hazards or congestion.
LS24-0017 is consistent with the project approved via Reso 2 018-16 with a design that,
as conditioned, would not unreasonably interfere with the use and enjoyment of
neighboring existing or proposed development and will not create traffic hazards or
congestion. LS24-0017 is consistent with the previously approved design and complied
with additional public input requirements to adhere to this finding. LS24-0017 is restricted
to only a portion of Site A, as defined in this staff report and landscape documents as
Phase 1. Approval would be granted solely for Phase 1 and the rest of Site A would
require a subsequent application of a landscape plan that meets all requirements outlined
in this report, including conditions of approval in Reso 2018 -16 and PDMC 24.04.
C. That the design and location of the proposed development is in keeping with the character
of the surrounding neighborhood and is not detrimental to the harmonious, orderly, and
attractive development contemplated by this title and the General Plan of the City.
Similar to Finding B, LS24-0017 is consistent with the project approved via Reso 2018 -
16 with a design that, as conditioned, will not unreasonably interfere with the use and
enjoyment of neighboring existing or proposed development and will not create traffic
hazards or congestion. LS24-0017 is consistent with the previously approved design and
has complied with additional public input requirements to adhere to this finding. The
landscaping, as proposed, provides a sense of entry and provides landscaping to
establish a buffer between existing and new homes. The project landscapes all required
areas within the project site. LS24-0017 is restricted to only a portion of Site A, as defined
in this staff report and landscape documents as Phase 1. Approval would be granted
solely for Phase 1 and the rest of Site A would require a subsequent application of a
landscape plan that meets all requirements outlined in this report, including conditions of
approval in Reso 2018-16 and PDMC 24.04.
59
Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
LS24-0017 PDCC Site A Phase 1 Landscaping
Page 6 of 6
D. That the design and location of the proposed development would provide a desirable
environment for its occupants, as well as for its neighbors, and that it is aesthetically of
good composition, materials, textures, and colors.
The development landscaping would landscape the areas approved via Reso 2018 -16
and create a desirable landscaped project entry, project perimeter, an d street frontage
through a portion of the development. LS24-0017 is restricted to only a portion of Site A,
as defined in this staff report and landscape documents as Phase 1. Approval would be
granted solely for Phase 1 and the rest of Site A would require a subsequent application
of a landscape plan that meets all requirements outlined in this report, including conditions
of approval in Reso 2018-16 and PDMC 24.04
E. That the proposed use conforms to all the requirements of the zone in which it is located
and all other applicable requirements.
The proposed development conforms with all development standards of the underlying
R-2 zoning district and all other applicable requirements. This was reviewed and
confirmed during approval for PP/CUP 16 -280. LS24-0017 is restricted to only a portion
of Site A, as defined in this staff report and landscape documents as Phase 1. Approval
would be granted solely for Phase 1 and the rest of Site A would require a subsequent
application of a landscape plan that meets all requirements outlined in this report,
including conditions of approval in Reso 2018-16 and PDMC 24.04
F. That the overall development of the land shall be designed to ensure the protection of the
public health, safety, and general welfare.
The site plan has been reviewed to confirm the design provides for protection of the
public’s health, safety, and general welfare. The site is adequately serviced by utilities.
The project was analyzed for conformance for PP/CUP 16 -280. LS24-0017 is restricted
to only a portion of Site A, as defined in this staff report and lan dscape documents as
Phase 1. Approval would be granted solely for Phase 1 and the rest of Site A would
require a subsequent application of a landscape plan that meets all requirements outlined
in this report, including conditions of approval in Reso 2018 -16 and PDMC 24.04
ATTACHMENTS:
1. LS24-0017 Plans
2. Council Resolution No. 2018-16
3. PP/CUP 16-280 Preliminary Landscaping
4. Public Notification
60
61
62
63
64
ZONE #3
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE WATER BUDGET
Conversion Conversion
ETO ET Adj. Sq. Ft. Gal/SqFt/Inch Gal. to Cu. Ft. MWA
MWA 64 x 0.45 x 105,163 x 0.62 / 748 = 2,510 CCF
ESTIMATED WATER REQUIREMENTS
Total Drip - Shrub, Tree & Ground Cover Areas 100% 105,163 Sq. Ft.
Total Spray - Turf 0% 0 Sq. Ft.
Total Water Feature 0% 0 Sq. Ft.
Total Planted Area 100% 105,163 Sq. Ft.
Total Stone, Cobble, & Mulch 0% Sq. Ft.
Total Landscape Area (100%) 100% 105,163 Sq. Ft.
Sq. Ft.
USAGE CALCULATIONS
ETO PF(Kc) LA (Sq. Ft.) Gal. to Sq. Ft. Gal. to Cu. Ft. IE EWU
Low Drip - Shrub, Trees & Ground Cover Areas
ET per year
64.00 x 0.2 x 57840 x 0.62 / 748 / 0.90 = 681.85
Moderate Drip - Shrub, Trees & Ground Cover Areas
ET per year
64.00 x 0.5 x 47323 x 0.62 / 748 / 0.90 = 1394.66
TOTAL ESTIMATED ANNUAL WATER REQUIRED
CCF EWU 2,076.51
Total Landscape Area
105163
PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB - PARCEL "A" - PHASE 1
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
79
80
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
CITY OF PALM DESERT
73-510 FRED WARING DRIVE
PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA 92260-2578
TEL: 760-776-6483
PLANNING@PALMDESERT.GOV
CITY OF PALM DESERT
PUBLIC NOTICE
CASE NO. LS24-0017
The Architectural Review Commission of the City of Palm Desert will consider a request
for final landscape plan approval for a phase of “Parcel A” within Palm Desert Country
Club at 77-200 California Drive
PROJECT LOCATION: 77-200 California Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92211 (APN: 637-190-040)
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: A consideration to approve a landscape plan for final landscaping
within the Palm Desert Country Club project. The project would include 105,163 square feet of
landscaping within “Parcel A” of Palm Desert Country Club, generally located between Kentucky
Avenue and Oklahoma Avenue. The City’s Architectural Review Commission will be reviewing
the landscape plans for compliance with conditions of approval.
PUBLIC HEARING: NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Architectural Review Commission of
the City of Palm Desert, California, will consider the item at its meeting on March 11, 2025. The
Architectural Review Commission meeting begins at 12:30 p.m. in the Development Services
Conference Room 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/departments/city-manager-s-office/city-
clerk/committee-calendar.
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, Carlos Flores. 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 meeting described in this notice or
in written correspondence at or prior to the Architectural Review Commission. All comments and
any questions should be directed to:
Carlos Flores, Principal Planner
City of Palm Desert
73-510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, CA 92260
(760) 776-6478
cflores@palmdesert.gov
91
92
LS24-0017
PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB –
SITE A PHASE 1 LANDSCAPE
PALM DESERT ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION
MARCH 11, 2025
3/11/2025 AGENDA ITEM 6.B 1
Project Request
Villas PD (Applicant) is requesting landscape construction approval (LS24-0017) to
construct 105,163 square feet of landscape area within a portion of “Site A” within
Palm Desert Country Club. The applicant is requesting ARC approval to confirm
compliance with Resolution 2018-16 and the Palm Desert Municipal Code.
Landscape applications for construction are typically reviewed and approved by the
City’s Planning division after conformance with preliminary landscaping. However,
due to Reso 2018-16, and additional public feedback on the project, the City’s
Development Services Department determined that project approval should be
subject to the ARC, to provide design review approval and ensure compliance with
Reso 2018-16.
Case Number: LS24-0017 (Related cases: PP/CUP 16-280 and TTM 37240)
23/11/2025 AGENDA ITEM 6.B
Background
33/11/2025 AGENDA ITEM 6.B
On May 10, 2018, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2018- 16, granting Villas PD approval of PP/CUP 16-
280 for the repurposing of the former Palm Desert Country Club Executive Course. The approval converted
three (3) golf course areas into 69 residential condominium units on approximately 30 acres.
On June 19, 2018, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 2721 to subdivide the three (3) courses as
follows:
-Site A: TTM 37240 (32 units)
-Site B: TTM 37241 (19 units)
-Site C: TTM 37242 (18 units)
On January 20, 2022, the Applicant was issued a grading permit for Site A (PG19-0013) and commenced
grading activities on June 20, 2022. Since that date, the Applicant has completed grading and building activities
on Site A, including construction of eight (8) homes on the east part of Site A. However, no landscaping
construction or installation has occurred on Site A. Sites B and C do not have grading or building permit
issuances
Background
43/11/2025 AGENDA ITEM 6.B
Site A consists of 13.5 acres bound
by Oklahoma Avenue, Kentucky
Avenue, and Tennessee Avenue. Site
A would have project entry access
off Kentucky Avenue and Tennessee
Avenue.
Eight (8) out of a total 32 units have
been constructed on Site A
Project Request
TTM 37240 and PP/CUP16-280 did not provide a phased approach to Site A. However, the Applicant
has requested landscape approval for the portion of Site A that currently has building permits,
inclusive of landscaping the project entry, median, front yards, street, and area adjacent to existing
homes. LS24-0017 would cover only a portion of Site A and includes the main project entrance off
Tennessee. Future landscaping for the rest of Site A would require a subsequent landscape plan
application(s) and review.
Future landscape application(s) would require ARC approval after confirming conformance with Reso
2018-16 and the Palm Desert Municipal Code. LS24-0017 includes landscaping and irrigation only and
does not include approval for any walls/fences, lighting, and signage, all of which require separate
approvals and conformance with Reso 2018- 16 and the Palm Desert Municipal Code.
53/11/2025 AGENDA ITEM 6.B
Site Plan
63/11/2025 AGENDA ITEM 6.B
3/11/2025 AGENDA ITEM 6.B 7
83/11/2025 AGENDA ITEM 6.B
3/11/2025 AGENDA ITEM 6.B 9
PP/CUP 16-280
103/11/2025 AGENDA ITEM 6.B
Public Input
Condition of approval #15 on Reso 2018-16 stated: “The developers and their landscape
architect, agree to meet with individual homeowners regarding final tree placement and type
within the site area . Tree quantities shall not be less than those shown in the preliminary
landscape plan”. The Applicant conducted outreach in January 2025 to receive feedback on the
proposed plans and stated they did not receive any feedback that would revise the plans.
Additionally, City staff sent out a public notice for the March 11, 2025, ARC meeting to existing
property owners adjacent to the LS24-0017 project site, to encourage participation and
feedback.
City staff received three (3) public comments, all focused on the construction of walls along the
project perimeter. These walls are not within the scope of LS24-0017
113/11/2025 AGENDA ITEM 6.B
Recommendation
Staff recommends the Architectural Review Commission finds the project satisfies all findings for
design review approval, conforms with Conditions 15 and 16 from City Council Resolution No.
2018-16, and approves the project with the following conditions:
1)Mexican fan palms shall not be installed.
2)The project entry off Tennessee Avenue shall include a minimum of eight (8) California Fan
palms in the entry, including a minimum of two (2) within the median in the entry.
123/11/2025 AGENDA ITEM 6.B
Page 1 of 1
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION
CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: March 11, 2025
PREPARED BY: Carlos Flores, AICP, Principal Planner
SUBJECT: PROVIDE FEEDBACK ON DESIGN OF NEW LIBRARY FACILITY
RECOMMENDATION:
Provide feedback on proposed design for new library facility.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS:
The City of Palm Desert has hired Richard Kennedy Architects (Consultant) to design a new
library facility. The conceptual design was approved by the City’s Library Advisory Committee
on December 9, 2024, and the City Council on February 27, 2025. City sta ff and the Consultant
are seeking feedback from the Architectural Review Commission on the proposed design. The
Consultant will be providing a presentation during the meeting.
93
94
MUNICIPAL LIBRARYCITY OF PALM DESERT
March 11th, 2025
Architectural Review Commission
PROJECT LOCATION
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
SITE
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
NATIVE PALM GROVE CONCEPT
The building concept is defined by (3) main
architectural elements inspired by regional palm
groves – the ‘palm tree canopy’ shade screen
providing shade for all outdoor program areas, the
lower volume ‘boulder’ forms highlighting key
program areas, and the ‘riverbed’ surface materials
and planting approach that defines major pathways
through the site and building.
ZONING FLOOR PLAN
ADULT CHILDREN’S
STAFF
YOUNG
ADULT
MULTIPURPOSE
SORT
COMMONS
CAFÉ +
VISITORS
MEET
SHADE CANOPY
INNOVATE
0’80’40’20’
The low volume ‘boulder’ to the right of the entry
provides a large meeting room and several zoom
rooms. Additional meeting rooms are located
along the east wall with the young adult
collection and teen zone adjacent towards the
interior, abutting the staff and service functions
of the library.
The larger ‘boulder’ volume to the left of the
entry contains the lab space and innovation
studio. The adult collection area fills the two bars
at the northwest corner with the quieter more
reflective reading spaces facing views into the
park. To the northeast, the children’s area
features a low volume ‘boulder’ containing the
story time program room adjacent to an exterior
play area.
A much larger ‘boulder’ volume to the southwest
holds all the community functions such as the
multipurpose room, demonstration kitchen, café,
Friends of the Library bookstore, and the Palm
Desert visitor center.
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
Total Floor Area = 25,892 gsf
Inspiration Literal Abstraction
PATTERN:
Like the natural canopies of the palm groves, the
dense interconnected fronds block much of the
sunlight creating a cooler, shaded environment below.
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
SHADE
18
1
19
5
3
2
8
16
4
7
6
12
17
9
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
1.Outdoor cafe
2.Firepit area
3.Outdoor maker space
4.Private outdoor event space
5.Misting seep
6.Book drop
7.Lockers
8.Drop-off
9.Public parking area
10.Existing Trash Enclosure
11.Solar Canopy
12.Gated parking area
13.Utility Yard
14.Trash Enclosure
15.Pump House
16.Loading dock
17.Staff patio
18.Children’s courtyard
19.Adult courtyard
LANDSCAPE PLAN
6
11
1314
10
15
Approach from adjacent parking at office building to the south
SOUTH ELEVATION
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
The exterior building palette is defined by three elements: plaster, stone, and glass.
The main volume of the library is comprised of white plaster and acts as a backdrop to
the ‘boulder’ forms of the lower volumes which are wrapped in stone veneer. Glass
walls are also located where key views to the park and mountains are provided.
EXTERIOR PALETTE
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
Veneer Stone Glass Walls Plaster
Approach from primary drive north
SOUTHWEST APPROACH
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
Approach from drop-off towards west entry into site
DROP OFF
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
Main entry (center), multipurpose space (right)
BREEZEWAY
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
FLOATING WATER FEATURE EMBEDDED IN LANDSCAPE
LANDSCAPE CONCEPTS
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
ROCKING CHAIRS
HIGH TOP SEATING WITH PARK VIEW
READING LOUNGE
MISTING
MOVEABLE FURNITURE
ORGANIZED PLAY
INTERACTIVE PLAY
Approach at service desk into library stacks with views to the park
INTERIOR
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
The material palette for the interior is inspired by Palm Desert
through its desert experiences, the palms that populate the area,
and the rare yet stunning desert blooms.
INTERIOR PALETTE
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
Day view from park toward northwest corner
PARK VIEW
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
Dusk view from park toward northwest corner
PARK VIEW
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
APPENDIX
1.Circulation Desk / Self-Checkout
2.Public PCs / Copy Print
3.Lab and Innovation Studio
4.Adult Collections
5.Reading Deck
6.Lounge Seating
7.Children’s Entry / Service Desk
8.Children’s Collections
9.Storytime
10.Children’s Outdoor Program
11.Restroom and Lactation Room
12.Teen’s Lounge
13.Young Adult Collection
14.Meeting Rooms
15.Holds and Book Drop
16.Restrooms
17.Automated Sorting Room
18.Exterior Book Drop
19.Staff Work Area and Enclosed Offices
20.Staff Hub and Kitchen
21.Staff Patio
22.Café Seating / Bookstore Display
23.Visitor Center
24.Executive Meeting Room (Green Room)
25.Demonstration Kitchen
26.Multipurpose Room
27.Checkout Lockers
28.24/7 Holds (After Hours)
FLOOR PLAN
13
4
5 5
4
6
7
8
8
9
111213
14
14 15 16
18
18
17
19
20
21
22
23 24
25
26
27 28
10
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
SHADE CANOPY
0’80’40’20’
2
CITY OF PALM DESERT
ATTENDANCE REPORT
Advisory Body: Architectural Review Commission
Prepared By:
Year
Month
Date 14-Jan 28-Jan 11-Feb 25-Feb 12-Mar 26-Mar 9-Apr 23-Apr 14-May 28-May 11-Jun 25-Jun 9-Jul 23-Jul 13-Aug 27-Aug 10-Sep 24-Sep 8-Oct 22-Oct 12-Nov 26-Nov 10-Dec 24-Dec
Blakeley, James Edward -PP-P -PPE PPP-E- P-PPPP - P-2 0
Colvard, Dean Wallace -PP-P -PEP PPP-P- P-EAPP - P-3 1
Latkovic, Nicholas -PP-P -PPP PPP-P- P-PPPP - E-1 0
McAuliffe, Michael -PP-P -PPP PPE-P- P-PPEP - P-2 0
McIntosh, James -EP-P -PEP EPP-P- A-PPEE - P-6 1
Sanchez, Francisco -PP-P -PPP PPP-P- P-EPPP - P-1 0
Vuksic, John -PP-P -PPP PPP-P- E-PPPP - P-1 0
Palm Desert Municipal Code 2.34.010:
PPresent
AAbsent
EExcused
- No meeting
M. Gonzalez
Twice 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
Absences
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep
2025 2024 2024 20242025 2024 2024
Total
Absences
Oct Nov Dec
2024 2024 2024 2024 2024
95