HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-10-28 ARC Regular Meeting Agenda Packet
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION
CITY OF PALM DESERT
REGULAR MEETING POST-MEETING AGENDA
Tuesday, October 28, 2025
12:30 p.m.
Administrative 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/81879118808 or
call (213) 338-8477, Zoom Meeting ID: 818 7911 8808
•
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.
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.
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
Agenda within the three-minute time limit. Individual items may be removed by
the Architectural Review Commission for a separate discussion.
RECOMMENDATION:
To approve the consent calendar as presented.
4.a APPROVAL OF MINUTES 5
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the Minutes of October 14, 2025.
5.BUSINESS ITEMS
Items listed in this section are presented for the Commission's review and
action. Public comment is allowed on each item, with a three-minute time limit
for each speaker. The Commission may provide direction, request additional
information, or take action as appropriate.
5.a CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF A HEIGHT
EXCEPTION TO PERMIT THE DEVELOPMENT OF A NEW SINGLE-
FAMILY RESIDENCE LOCATED AT 47600 SILVER SPUR TRAIL
9
RECOMMENDATION:
The single-family home shall conform to the plans and elevations
submitted and approved by ARC, including the maximum building
height of 16 feet 6 inches measured from finished grade.
1.
The maximum building height shall not exceed 16 feet 6 inches as
approved. Any future increase in height shall require separate
review and approval by ARC.
2.
The exterior materials and color palette shall be consistent with the
approved design, utilizing neutral earth tones.
3.
The structure shall maintain all other required setbacks and site
design standards per the R-1 Residential Single Family zoning
requirements.
4.
6.INFORMATIONAL REPORTS
6.a COMMITTEE MEETING UPDATES
6.a.1 ARC Subcommittee
A subcommittee member will provide an update to the Commission to
confirm that final construction drawings for larger projects substantially
conform to the conditions of ARC approval.
6.b CITY STAFF
City staff will provide updates on relevant projects, activities, and other
matters within the Commission's scope. These are informational items with
no formal action.
6.b.1 Update - Upcoming Meeting Canceled Due to Holiday
6.c ATTENDANCE REPORT 57
Architectural Review Commission Meeting
2
7.REQUESTS FOR ACTION
Commissioners may propose future agenda items within the Commission's
scope. Items that receive support from at least one other Commissioner may be
placed on a future agenda for discussion and possible action. No formal action
may be taken at this time.
8.ADJOURNMENT
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/ Monique Lomeli, CMC
Senior Deputy Clerk
Architectural Review Commission Meeting
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4
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION
CITY OF PALM DESERT
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
1. CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the Architectural Review Commission was called to order by
Chairman McIntosh on October 14, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber, City
Hall, located at 73-510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, California.
2. ROLL CALL
3. NON-AGENDA PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
4. CONSENT CALENDAR
Motion by: Commissioner Colvard
Seconded by: Commissioner Gregory
To approve the consent calendar as presented.
Motion Carried (4 to 0)
5
Architectural Review Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
October 14, 2025
2
4.a APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Motion by: Commissioner Colvard
Seconded by: Commissioner Gregory
1. Approve the Architectural Review Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
of August 12, August 26, and September 9, 2025.
2. Approve the Architectural Review Commission and Planning Commission
Joint Study Session Minutes of September 23, 2025.
Motion Carried (4-0)
5. BUSINESS ITEMS
5.a CONSIDERATION OF ROOFTOP EQUIPMENT SCREENING APPROVAL FOR
DESERT KID COFFEE AT 44850 SAN PABLO AVENUE
Kayleen Aguirre, Assistant Planner, narrated a PowerPoint presentation and
responded to Commission inquiries.
Chris McFadden, McFadden Architects, responded to Commission inquiries
regarding the revised plan.
In response to Commission inquiries, Deputy Director Carlos Flores provided
information regarding the applicant's previous submittal and sequence of events.
Following deliberations, the Commission took no action on the design review.
Motion by: Commissioner Gregory
Seconded by: Chair McIntosh
To approve TIMP25-0031, finding that the original equipment screening method
meets the necessary findings for approval, subject to the following conditions:
1. The applicant shall fill in the gap on the rear side of the building.
2. The applicant shall select one of the three proposed materials and paint
the selected material to match the parapet.
Motion Carried (4 to 0)
5.b CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF A HEIGHT
EXCEPTION TO PERMIT THE DEVELOPMENT OF A NEW SINGLE-FAMILY
RESIDENCE LOCATED AT 47600 SILVER SPUR TRAIL
Siji Fernandez, Senior Planner, narrated a PowerPoint presentation and
responded to Commission inquiries.
Toni Ringline, GHA Properties, stated that the only concern expressed by owners
of the neighboring properties was the proximity of the project; confirmed the
project meets setback requirements and is void of spaces that overlook the
neighbor's personal space.
6
Architectural Review Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
October 14, 2025
3
Michael Fitzgerald, architect, responded to Commission inquiries and provided
clarifications regarding the proposed design materials and dimensions.
Through the course of deliberation, Commissioners expressed concerns
regarding the height of the gable roof and overall site design.
Motion by: Chair McIntosh
Seconded by: Commissioner Gregory
To continue this item to a date uncertain, allowing the applicant time to restudy
the proportions of the entry walls and adjoining parapet.
Motion Carried (4 to 0)
6. INFORMATIONAL REPORTS
6.a COMMITTEE MEETING UPDATES
6.a.1 Cultural Arts Committee
Commissioner Colvard summarized the actions taken by the Cultu ral Arts
Committee at the meeting of October 8, 2025; No action was taken on this
item.
6.a.2 ARC Subcommittee
None.
6.b CITY STAFF
Deputy Director Flores expressed appreciation to the Commission for
participating in the Joint Study Session with the Planning Commission and
responded to general inquiries regarding the Hillside Design Standards.
6.c ATTENDANCE REPORT
Informational report included in agenda materials; no action taken.
7. REQUESTS FOR ACTION
8. ADJOURNMENT
The Architectural Review Commission adjourned at 2:12 p.m.
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Architectural Review Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
October 14, 2025
4
9. PUBLIC NOTICES
_________________________
Monique Lomeli, Senior Deputy Clerk
Recording Secretary
_________________________
Carlos Flores, Deputy Director of Development Services
Staff Liaison
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Page 1 of 6
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION
CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: October 28, 2025
PREPARED BY: Sijifredo Fernandez, Senior Planner
SUBJECT: CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF A HEIGHT
EXCEPTION TO PERMIT THE DEVELOPMENT OF A NEW SINGLE-
FAMILY RESIDENCE LOCATED AT 47600 SILVER SPUR TRAIL
RECOMMENDATION:
1. The single-family home shall conform to the plans and elevations submitted and approved
by ARC, including the maximum building height of 16 feet 6 inches measured from finished
grade.
2. The maximum building height shall not exceed 16 feet 6 inches as approved. Any future
increase in height shall require separate review and approval by ARC.
3. The exterior materials and color palette shall be consistent with the approved design, utilizing
neutral earth tones.
4. The structure shall maintain all other required setbacks and site design standards per the R-
1 Residential Single Family zoning requirements.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS:
At its meeting on October 14, 2025, the Architectural Review Commission reviewed the
proposed height exception and expressed concerns regarding the visual impact and overall
height. The Commission, on a 4-0 vote (Commissioners Blakely and Sanchez absent,
Commissioner Vuksic abstained) continued the item and requested that the applicant further
reduce the structure’s height and massing to improve neighborhood compa tibility and minimize
the project’s visual prominence. In response to ARC feedback, the applicant submitted a revised
plan set that further reduces the maximum building height from 17 feet 6 inches to 16 feet 6
inches. This updated height is below the maximum allowable height of 18 feet with ARC approval
and demonstrates substantial effort to address the Commission’s concerns regarding scale and
visual impact.
Architectural Review Commission Agenda October 14, 2025
Per the City’s Zoning Ordinance, the base height limit for single -family development is 15 feet.
However, an increase in height of up to 18 feet may be permi tted with review and approval by
the Architectural Review Commission (ARC), provided that the proposed design demonstrates
compatibility with the surrounding neighborhood and adherence to applicable development
standards.
9
Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
(MISC25-0026 St. Jude Dream Home Continuance)
Page 2 of 6
Project Description:
A. Property Description
The subject property is a vacant 0.31-acre lot located northwest of Silver Spur Trail and Portola
Avenue, within the R-1 - Residential Single Family zoning district.
B. Zoning, General Plan and Adjacent Uses
Table 1 – Adjacent Land Use and Designations
Existing Uses General Plan Zoning
Project
Site
Multi-Tenant Retail Buildings
R-1 - Residential Single Family
North Vacant Lot (City Owned)
R-1 - Residential Single Family
South Multifamily Residential
Buildings
P.R.-6 - Planned Residential
East Existing Single Family
R-1 - Residential Single Family
10
Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
(MISC25-0026 St. Jude Dream Home Continuance)
Page 3 of 6
West Vacant Lot
R-1 - Residential Single Family
C. Project Description
The applicant is requesting a height exception to allow the construction of a 4,119 square -foot
single-family residence with a maximum height of 16 feet 6 inches measured from finished grade.
The architectural style of the proposed home is a mix of contemporary and traditional
architecture. The structure incorporates a combination of flat rooflines and a pitched barrel tile
roof, blending contemporary forms with traditional architecture. The exterior is finished in a
neutral color palette consisting of earth tones and natural textures.
Site Plan
11
Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
(MISC25-0026 St. Jude Dream Home Continuance)
Page 4 of 6
Architecture
12
Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
(MISC25-0026 St. Jude Dream Home Continuance)
Page 5 of 6
ANALYSIS:
General Plan, Land Use, and Zoning
The Project Site is an existing single-family residence zoned as Single-Family Residential
District (R-1) and designated Conventional Suburban Neighborhood under the General Plan
Land Use Element, which aims to provide low intensity neighborhood developmen t with a limited
variety of housing choices (Chapter 3-8, General Plan).
ZONING ANALYSIS
The Project is subject to the following findings from PDMC § 25.68.040, as summarized below:
1. That the proposed development conforms to any legally adopted development standards.
Complies: The proposed development conforms to all legally adopted development
standards provisions set forth by the Palm Desert Municipal Code (PDMC) for Single-
Family Residential District (R-1), including regulations for setbacks, allowable residential
uses, and design requirements, as outlined in the Zoning Analysis above.
2. 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 proposed
developments and that it will not create traffic hazards or congestion.
Complies: The proposed development is consistent with the surrounding residential
character and is not expected to impact on the desirability of the neighborhood. It
maintains required setbacks and does not introduce traffic hazards or congestion. The
project will not interfere with the use or enjoyment of neighboring properties.
3. 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.
Complies: The proposed height exception has been evaluated in the context of the
surrounding neighborhood and is found to be consistent with the existing character and
development pattern in the area. The design minimizes visual impacts through thoughtful
massing, roof articulation, and setbacks. Therefore, the proposed development is not
detrimental to the harmonious, orderly, and attractive development envisioned by the
City’s Zoning Code and General Plan.
4. 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.
13
Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
(MISC25-0026 St. Jude Dream Home Continuance)
Page 6 of 6
Complies: The proposed development includes a design that incorporates quality
materials, appropriate textures, and a neutral color palette that is compatible with the
surrounding neighborhood. The location and orientation of the structure are cons istent
with adjacent properties, and the additional height has been designed to maintain
appropriate scale and proportion.
5. That the proposed use conforms to all the requirements of the zone in which it is located
and all other applicable requirements.
Complies: The proposed use conforms to all land use and development requirements of
the R-1 zoning district set forth by the Palm Desert Municipal Code. This includes full
conformance to regulations for setbacks, allowable residential uses, and design
requirements.
6. That the overall development of the land shall be designed to ensure the protection of the
public health, safety, and general welfare.
Complies: The proposed single family home has been designed in accordance with
applicable regulations and standards intended to protect public health, safety, and
general welfare. The project will be subject to all required reviews and permitting
processes to ensure compliance with building, zoning, and safety codes. No evidence
has been presented indicating that the height exception would result in conditions
detrimental to the community. No adverse impacts to public infrastructure, emergency
access, or surrounding properties are anticipated.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Revised Architectural Plan Set
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17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
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MISC25-0026
St. Jude Dream Home
Continuance
PALM DESERT ARCHITECTURE REVIEW COMMISSION
OCTOBER 28, 2025
11/18/2025 ARC -AGENDA ITEM 5.A
35
Project Request
Project Applicant: GHA Companies
Request for ARC Approval of:
◦A request for approval of a height exception to permit the development of a new
single-family residence located at 47600 Silver Spur Trail
Related Records:
◦SFGR25-0009 –Grading Plan
◦RESI25-0198 –Building Permit
11/18/2025 ARC -AGENDA ITEM 5.A
36
Vicinity Map
11/18/2025 ARC -AGENDA ITEM 5.A
37
Existing Conditions
11/18/2025
Facing North from Silver Spur Trail
ARC -AGENDA ITEM 5.A
Facing South from Haystack Road
38
Background
11/18/2025
At its meeting on October 14, 2025, the Architectural Review Commission
reviewed the proposed height exception and expressed concerns regarding the
visual impact and overall height
The Commission continued the item and requested that the applicant further
reduce the structure’s height and massing to improve neighborhood
compatibility and minimize the project’s visual prominence
ARC -AGENDA ITEM 5.A
39
Background
11/18/2025
Zoning: R-1 -Residential Single Family
General Plan:Conventional Suburban Neighborhood
Maximum Height Allowed:
•15 feet (18 feet ARC)
•Allowable maximum building height is 18 feet with approval by Architectural
Review Commission (ARC)
ARC -AGENDA ITEM 5.A
40
Project Scope
11/18/2025
0.31-acre lot
4,119 square-foot single-family residence
Height 16 feet 6 inches
Combination of traditional and contemporary architecture
ARC -AGENDA ITEM 5.A
41
11/18/2025 ARC -AGENDA ITEM 5.A
Site Plan
42
Floor Plan
11/18/2025 ARC -AGENDA ITEM 5.A
43
Roof Plan
11/18/2025 ARC -AGENDA ITEM 5.A
44
Elevations
11/18/2025 ARC -AGENDA ITEM 5.A
Revised
45
Elevations
11/18/2025 ARC -AGENDA ITEM 5.A
Revised
46
Elevations
11/18/2025 ARC -AGENDA ITEM 5.A
Revised
47
Elevations
11/18/2025 ARC -AGENDA ITEM 5.A
Revised
48
Cross
Section
11/18/2025 ARC -AGENDA ITEM 5.A
Revised
49
11/18/2025 ARC -AGENDA ITEM 5.A
Updated
Wall Cap
Detail
50
11/18/2025 ARC -AGENDA ITEM 5.A
Rendering
51
11/18/2025 ARC -AGENDA ITEM 5.A
Updated
Rendering
52
Landscape
Plan
11/18/2025 ARC -AGENDA ITEM 5.A
53
Materials
Board
11/18/2025 ARC -AGENDA ITEM 5.A
54
Analysis
The project is consistent with the Architectural Review Commission findings of
the Palm Desert Municipal Code (PDMC)25.68.040
A.Compliance with Development Standards
B.Compatibility with Surround properties
C.Consistency with Neighborhood Character
D.Quality of Design and Aesthetics
E.Permitted Use and Zoning Compliance
F.Health,safety,and general welfare of the community
11/18/2025 ARC -AGENDA ITEM 5.A
55
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the Architectural Review Commission (ARC) determine that the findings
required for approval have been met and approve the Residential Height Exception subject to the
following conditions:
1.The single-family home shall conform to the plans and elevations submitted and approved
by ARC, including the maximum building height of 16 feet 6 inches measured from finished
grade.
2.The maximum building height shall not exceed 16 feet 6 inches as approved. Any future
increase in height shall require separate review and approval by ARC.
3.The exterior materials and color palette shall be consistent with the approved Desert
Contemporary design, utilizing neutral earth tones.
4.The structure shall maintain all required setbacks and site design standards per the R-1
Residential Single Family zoning requirements, ensuring no encroachment on neighboring
properties.
11/18/2025 ARC -AGENDA ITEM 5.A
56
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